Pioneer Newsletter - August 2006
Editor: Jim Morgan (Class of 1958)
320 East Vine #4
Murray, Utah 84107
(801) 261-1906
E-mail: jrmmgm123@juno.com
E-mail: jrmmgm123@aol.com
Again I’m late with this issue of the Pioneer newsletter. I promise that
September’s issue will be sent out over Labor Day weekend with all of the
news that I’ve omitted from this issue. Life has been hectic lately but
now things are slowing down.
Updated Funeral Notes on Paul Gleason: Sorry but when I send the
information on Paul Gleason’s funeral as seen through the eyes of Allan
Webb I somehow didn’t sent the complete reflections. At the end of this
issue of the Pioneer newsletter is the complete story from Allan. My
apologies to Allan and the Gleason family for the mistake.
Pioneer Memorial Scholarship Fund: We have just set up a North Miami High
School Pioneer Memorial Scholarship Fund to honor the memory of deceased
Pioneers. Our goal is to have enough money in the fund that a scholarship
can be awarded next year. Each year, the school already has an awards
ceremony in May. This is where they present a variety of other
scholarships. I know they'd be more than happy to include this one.
People who wish to donate to the PMSF should simply write a check payable
to the Pioneer Pride Fund, but designate on the check that they wish it
to go to PMSF, and note the name of the person in whose name the money
has been given. They can do that in a couple of ways....with an
accompanying note, or a line on the check. For instance, some who have
already donated to other clubs simply put "Debate Club, etc." on the
"notes" line of their check. The committee will be made up of Scott
Galvin (North Miami City Councilman) as chairman with two former Pioneers
on the committee. So far Tom Flom (Class of 1958) and retired Chief of
Police of North Miami has agreed to be on the committee. One other former
student from North Miami High School has also been asked to be on the
committee. Two current teachers (one male, one female) will be selected
by the principal to represent North Miami High School on the committee.
The five committee members will decide on how students will be nominated
and who will be selected. If you would like to donate to PMSF please send
your check to Scott Galvin, c/o Pioneer Pride Fund, 12100 West Dixie
Highway, North Miami, Florida 33161. I’ll keep you posted on how things
are going.
Death of Pioneer Wayne Chandler (Class of 1958) on August 9, 2006: Here
is notice that was in the Miami Herald. Wayne Chandler, 65. Former
weatherman at WSVN-Channel 7 by Shannon Pease; spease@MiamiHerald.com
Wayne Chandler, a former WSVN-Channel 7 weatherman whose career ended
abruptly after a 1984 head-on car crash, died Wednesday. He was 65. In
addition to giving weekend weather reports, Chandler hosted a kids' show
called Sunday Funnies with Charlie Folds for more than a decade in the
1970s and early '80s. ''He auditioned as co-host and I liked him right
away,'' said Folds, who retired from the station in 2003. "He had a way
with children.'' Folds recalled how Chandler read comics like Peanuts and
Hagar the Horrible during the half-hour program, while Folds, dressed in
a Toby the Robot costume, made sound effects. ''He did the talking, I did
the clowning around,'' Folds said. Chandler's baritone voicecaptivated TV
audiences, Folds said. ''He had a unique voice. A deep, deep announcer
voice,'' Folds said. Chandler worked with the station until Dec. 7 1984,
when a head-on collision left him with multiple fractures and a severe
head injury. Chandler was traveling in a Volkswagen Beetle on Biscayne
Boulevard when another driver lost control and struck his car. Chandler
slowly recovered, his wife said, but was never well enough to return to
work. "It kind of got to him for a while after his accident, because that
was his life,'' said his wife, Lynn Chandler. Sunday Funnies ended soon
after Chandler's departure from the station. Chandler was born Oct. 17,
1940, in Chester, Pa. He moved to South Florida as a child, graduating
from North Miami High School. He later attended Miami Dade Community
College, and earned a bachelor's degree in meteorology from Florida
International University. Before working at WSVN -- formerly WCKT -- he
worked in sales, his wife said. In addition to his wife, Chandler is
survived by four daughters and one grandchild. A memorial service will
take place at 2 p.m. Saturday at Fred Hunter's Funeral Home in Hollywood.
(Note: Thanks to all those who let me know about the death of Wayne. P.
S. Wayne had been married to another former Pioneer, Sharon Madsen).
North Miami Pioneer Alumni Site: Here is a site for North Miami Senior
High School. http://northmiami.alumz.com/. This is an Alumni site for the
entire school. I'd suggest that you check it out (it's free).
Dear Pioneers, Friends of Pioneers and Friends of Friends of Pioneers:
The date for the October Mini has been set for Friday and Saturday,
October 20 and 21. You can also come in early on Thursday the 19th and
stay thru Sunday, the 22nd. The motel is Days Inn in Thomaston, Georgia.
The rate is $52. a night. You can call 706 648-9260 for reservations. The
group is North Miami Pioneers. If you have a problem, please ask for
Peter. He may know me as Bonnie Byrd instead of Bonnie Gardner, because
we booked groups in there before we were married. We have held fifteen
rooms and can get more if needed. We will have a dinner at our home on
Friday, a country festival on Saturday, supper at our home on Saturday
followed by a hay ride and snacks at my son and daughter-in-laws home.
For those arriving on Thursday, the Survivor Fans can watch Survivor and
we will have a light meal at our home. On Sunday, everyone is invited to
attend church with us and we will go to a country buffet after church
(Dutch treat). If anyone is planning on getting married at the mini
reunion (like Cathy Wind and Moe Abel did last year) please get your
marriage license in your home state and bring it with you. Our probate
judge just might be out of the office. We will be sure to have our
Pioneer Pastor (Barbara Rennie Herber) present. Bill is from the Class of
1960 and I am from the Class of 1959, but all Pioneers, friends of
Pioneers and friends of friends of Pioneers are welcome to attend. Bill
and I met because of a class reunion, and many of our classmates were in
our wedding. Our phone number is 770 567-3503, cell 770 468-2183, fax 770
567-9768 and email is drbonnie98@aol.com. We hope our paths cross yours
soon. With smiles from rural Georgia we are Bonnie (Bishop) and Bill
Gardner
Class of 1959 Reunion: After our reunion in 2005, we took a survey and
most Pioneers did not want to wait until 2009 (our 50th ) to have another
reunion. Your reunion committee is excited to let you know that a
wonderful gala has been planned in your honor. Come join the Best
Birthday Party Ever and Celebrate YOU and the entire class of 59 turning
65 (and change as Paul says) and getting the benefits of Medicare! When:
May 18th, 19th, and 20th 2007. Where: Embassy Suites, Boca Raton, 661
N. W. 53rd Street. Phone for reservations (561) 994-8200 or
1-800-EMBASSY or 1-800 362-2779
Ask for the special rate for the North Miami High Class Reunion. Please
make your hotel reservations TODAY. The room rate is only $129. (plus
tax) per night single or double occupancy, $139. triple occupancy, and
$149. quad occupancy. This rate is good for three days before the
reunion and three days afterward. You will be responsible for making your
own hotel reservations; please do so today as we have only held a block
of thirty rooms. As soon as these rooms are taken, we will block more
rooms. Friday and Saturday Night. 1. Two Night Package is $125. per
person if paid ahead or $135. at the door. 2. Friday night only cost per
person is $60. or $70. at the door. 3. Saturday night only cost per
person is $95. or $105 at the door. Sunday morning, those staying at
Embassy Suites will have a complimentary breakfast and those wishing to
join us can pay for their breakfasts. Please send your check for Friday
and Saturday nights' events to Bonnie P. Bishop Byrd Gardner, 723 Oliver
Road, Meansville, Georgia 30256. Please make all checks payable to North
Miami High Class of 1959. We have given a deposit already, and another
payment is due in October, so please respond as soon as possible. If you
have any questions, please call. My phone number is (770) 567-3503; and
my fax line is (770) 567-9768. You can email me at drbonnie98@aol.com. A
deposit of $10. has already been paid by these Pam Hepp, Carolyn
(McMahon) Howard, Robina (Romaguera) and Red Haas, Janet Miller, Freddie
Hoedle, Marie (Dodato) Gorgans, Margaret Ham, Irene (Finn) and Wayne
Griffin, Pete and Donna Cross, Tom Olsen, Valerie Healey, Judy (Scheel)
Walden and Dave Malnick, Helene (Zampaloni) Ditter, Diane (Derrer)
Aucamp, Judy (McCafrey) Behari, Cookie (Smyth) and Chuck Bishop, Sylvia
(Maige) Williamson, Barbara (Rennie) Herber, Julie (Reese-class of 60)
and Don Drybread (class of 57), Julia (Santos) and Doug Brown, Vina
(Foote) Saffian, Bonnie (Bishop) and Bill Gardner and Helene (Zampaloni)
Ditter donated $200. to the reunion account. Rooming at Embassy Suites
includes: You will have a suite consisting of two rooms. One room has
either one king bed or two queen beds, and the other room has a couch
that makes into a bed. For those of you wanting to room together, this
will be a good arrangement. There is a microwave, small fridge, coffee
maker, and blow dryer in each suite. A complimentary full cooked-to-order
breakfast is included each morning, and a complimentary manager's
reception is held each evening from 5:30 PM to 7:30pm with snacks and
cocktails/beverages at no cost for folks staying at the Embassy Suites.
Other complimentary services for guests staying at Embassy Suites:
on-site fitness center, men's and women's sauna, outdoor heated pool and
whirlpool, shuttle service to beach, restaurants and shopping (the
shuttle operates from 8am to 10pm within a five mile radius of the
hotel). Friday Night from 6pm to 11pm, we will have a reception with hot
and cold hors-d'oeuvres which will include Knishes, mozzarella sticks,
vegetables with dip, cheeses with flatbread and French baguettes, franks
in puff pastry and tropical fruit served from 7:30pm until 10:30pm. On
Friday night, each person will have a ticket that entitles her/him to a
$5. credit at the bar for one beverage choice of either bottled water,
bottled soda, glass of wine, beer, or other house choice mixed drink.
There will also be a cash bar Friday evening. On Saturday night, we will
have a dinner buffet beginning at 7pm. This includes three carving
stations serving roast beef and breast of turkey. Other entrees are
chicken marsala and pistachio encrusted tilapia and a hot pasta station.
There will be a vegetable medley, red bliss potatoes and rice pilaf, and
a cold station with cheeses and a salad bar. The dessert table will open
at 8:30pm and will include lemon poppy seed cake cubes with white and
dark chocolate fondue, fresh fruit, cheese cake, apple pie and coffee and
hot tea. There will be a cash bar for four hours with house wines and
beer for $5. each and other cocktails at $5.50 each. Of course, we will
have our wonderful homespun show featuring Pioneers of all sizes and
ages. We will have music for dancing and listening pleasure. We plan to
have a photographer there for pictures and a videographer to tape this
wonderful event. If you would like to be in the show, contact Sylvia
Maige (954) 421-3123 sylviawilliamson@bellsouth.net. Reunion Contact:
Bonnie P. Bishop B. Gardner, 723 Oliver Road, Meansville, Georgia 30256.
Home (770) 567-3503, Fax (770) 567-9768, Cell (770) 468-2183, e-mail
drbonnie98@aol.com
Greater North Miami Historical Society News and Updates: Here are just a
few updates on some things of interest to our Historical Society! July
2006 Newsletter Coming. Keep your eyes open for the newest edition of the
North Miami Historian, which you should find in your mailbox soon. This
will be the first edition edited by Alan and Shelly Sokol, who have taken
over the reigns from Blair Conner. Watch for it! Al Kaplan's Blog: Al
Kaplan is a long-time North Miami resident and member of the GNMHS. For
a long time, he used to be the city's official photographer. He has tons
of negatives of photos taken during the 60s, 70s, and 80s. In fact, you
can sometimes see some of the photos..and read his thoughts of
days-gone-by...on his blog, located online at
http://thepriceofsilver.blogspot.com/2006/07/arch-creek-and-enchanted-for
est.html Biscayne Boulevard Times Focuses on American Czech-Slovak
Cultural Club. Tucked away near the Arch Creek Park is one of North
Miami's best-kept secrets: the American Czech-Slovak Cultural Club. Our
friends at the Biscayne Boulevard Times have taken a peek at the
happenings at this truly historical building and made it the focus of an
article in their July issue. Did Al Capone really run liquor through
there? You can read it online at
http://www.biscayneboulevard.com/news/news_2006/news_0706_acscc.htm. Know
Anything About Apartments on Griffing Boulevard? Member Rick Ferrer is
doing research into the history of the apartment building located at
11595 Griffing Boulevard, along the canal. Its owner would like to see
Miami-Dade County designate it as historical. If you have any information
on the property, please email Rick at rxf@miamidade.gov. Scott Galvin,
President, Greater North Miami Historical Society
www.northmiamihistory.com
Biscayne Boulevard Times: An interesting site that has some great
articles about North Miami and the surrounding area is the Biscayne
Boulevard Times. Not everything is about North Miami but it isn’t long
and it is indexed. Go to Google and type in Biscayne Boulevard Times and
check it out. To subscribe to the newsletter send an e-mail to
newsletter@biscayneboulevard.com.
Fifty Years Ago Elvis Presley Took Miami by Storm: Fans still love him
'true,' 50 years after S. Fla. debut. A shredded pink sports jacket,
scathing editorials and a lot of young enthusiasm are part of the
memories of Elvis Presley's first Miami performance. BY MARGARIA FICHTNER
mfichtner@MiamiHerald.com. Elvis Presley plays Miami in 1956. Fifty years
ago today (August 3, 1956), a 21-year-old former truck driver wearing a
pink sport coat and black pants slipped onto the stage at Miami's Olympia
Theater. Grabbing the microphone, Elvis Presley managed to husk one word
-- ''Thisss. . .'' -- before his voice was smothered by frantic squeals.
''I couldn't believe what baby-fine skin he had,'' says Joanne McCool of
Miami Gardens, who was 14 and sitting with her mother in the third row.
``My other remembrance is how angry I was because everybody was
screaming, and you couldn't hear him sing.'' Tickets were $1.50. Presley
played seven sold-out performances over two days. The Olympia, now Gusman
Center for the Performing Arts, had not seen such excitement since one of
the Rathbone Sisters lost the top of her costume while swinging from her
trapeze.''Everybody was rushing the stage and dancing in the aisles,''
says Francis Marinelli of Homestead, then a 15-year-old high school
sophomore who butch-waxed his hair and shined his stepfather's Plymouth
to impress his date, a senior cheerleader.''You had to be there,'' says
historian Arva Moore Parks. The line from the box office zigzagged for
blocks, and ``I was standing right about where the side door of Gusman
is. So the first show came out, and there were grown women, I mean not
teenagers, carrying pieces of his pink coat. And I have to tell you, my
mouth dropped.'' Hundreds of fans, mostly female, many formidably
buttressed by crinolines, stormed the stage door, almost trampling
several policeman and clotting rush-hour traffic to a honking crawl. “You
know the expression that somebody is treated `like a rock star.' Well,
Elvis was treated like a super-nova rock star,'' says former U.S. Sen.
Bob Graham, then 19, who was standing in line near Parks. In fact, no one
in Miami had ever seen or heard anything quite like this big-shouldered
kid with the three-octave vibrato, flopping forelock and agitated hips.
It was one thing to have watched him on TV -- even that embarrassing
basset-hound serenade on The Steve Allen Show -- but who would have
thought that Ellllvis!!!!! would just roll into town like any other
tourist; well, any other tourist with a new lavender Lincoln. The car
quickly was covered with lipsticked love notes and phone numbers, so
Presley went shopping and paid $10,800 for a clean, white Continental.
''He was on his way to somewhere else,'' says biographer Peter Guralnick,
who details the Miami gig in Last Train to Memphis. ``This was really the
tail end of his touring of the South. He'd been doing that for almost two
years. . . . But now, you know, the Florida tour was really an interlude
on his way to making the first movie, which was, in essence, the end for
almost 15 years of his career as a live performer.'' Though in some ways
still the aw-shucks boy from Tupelo, Mississippi, in this summer of Don't
Be Cruel, Presley was not only the hottest hit-parade idol since Sinatra
but also, because of his smoked-velveteen voice and aerobic swivels, a
moral lightning rod. Miami News columnist Herb Rau labeled him ''the
biggest freak in modern show business history'' and suggested that his
fans deserved ``A SOLID SLAP ACROSS THE MOUTH.'' ''Well, I genuinely
think we were there listening to the music,'' says Graham. ''. . . Think
of how many Elvis songs people still sing. It wasn't as if he was singing
just throwaway trash, and he had a good voice. And so before you got to
his, what would you call it?'' -- Sexiness? -- ``. . . he had a lot going
for him.'' Still, McCool says, ``I've always wondered how much my mother
liked him as an entertainer, or if she went with me because my parents
wouldn't let me go by myself.'' ''I'm not trying to look sexy,'' Presley
insisted to Miami News reporters Damon Runyon Jr. and Bella Kelly. ``I
move around because that's the way I feel when I sing.'' ''He was really
quite gentlemanly,'' Kelly said. ``I guess I expected him to walk like he
danced, and he didn't.'' It is, of course, a curse of hindsight to
realize that in that summer of 1956, Presley's life already was half
over. Fran Marinelli had his Olympia ticket stub framed, but he could not
hang onto the cheerleader. ''I never saw her again,'' he says. ``It was
my first experience at being an adolescent. She broke my heart.'' Joanne
McCool saw Presley once more, at his Sportatorium concert a few months
before he died in 1977. ''I have my ticket stub from then,'' she says.
``It was $15, and I was a single mother with three kids, and it took
everything I had to scrape the money together, but, boy, was I going to
go.'' Bob Graham had taken another young woman to the Olympia, but the
first time he kissed Adele Khoury, his future wife, they were at
Gainesville's old Suburbia drive-in watching a familiar, dark-haired
figure in Love Me Tender. (Editor’s Note: I was one of the thousands who
saw Elvis perform at the Olympia Theater and loved it).
New NoMi Elementary School Ready for Fall, By Malika Bierstei, BBT Staff
Writer. Classes will begin August 14 at the newly formed David Lawrence
Jr. K-8 Center, located adjacent to the Biscayne Bay campus of Florida
International University. Drop-in week, which will give parents and
students a chance to walk the campus, purchase uniforms and see the
classrooms, will run from July 31 until August 4. “Our goal is to get the
school up and running in the most productive way possible to ensure that
it opens on time,” said Karen DeLeon, treasurer of the David Lawrence PTA
and mother of a fourth grader who will be attending in the fall. “The PTA
is working diligently to spread the word so that parents will get
involved.” Sitting on land the city donated to the school board six to
eight years ago, the school is scheduled to open once construction is
finalized in July. Initial plans include academic programs for K-6
students, of which there are currently about 652 registered to begin in
the fall, with more than 50 on a transfer list. Grades seven and eight
will be added consecutively over the next two years. The DLC will follow
the regular Dade County Public School curriculum, but will integrate two
art labs, a music suite and band classroom. In addition to the core
curriculum, one unit of study with a marine science and technology theme
will be incorporated for all grade levels. Following the theme, the
school’s aesthetic interior design will exhibit ocean, everglades and
mangrove scenes. The DLC is working with the FIU College of Education’s
Professional Development Program, in conjunction with their College of
Marine Biology, to establish an observation and internship program for
students. Plans will include field trips to FIU’s forthcoming Marine
Biology Lab, in addition to organizing workshops with FIU professors and
access to labs, though nothing has yet been finalized. Also, the PTA has
organized the Adopt-a-Class Campaign, a program designed to raise funds
for the 66 new classroom teachers to eliminate any out-of-pocket
expenses. Their goal is to provide each teacher with $250 prior to the
opening of the school for miscellaneous projects, student incentives and
supplies. Donors will be recognized in a variety of ways over the first
school year, beginning with a plaque thanking each person or
establishment by name. The campaign has brought in over $5,000 so far.
The school, named for David Lawrence Jr., the former Miami Herald
publisher and childhood learning and development pioneer, has fostered a
relationship with Johnson and Wales University, which will offer
nutrition and cooking workshops to parents and staff as they work on
“Healthy Eating/Healthy Choices,” a grant received by Principal Bernard
L. Osborn from the Health Foundation of South Florida. Principal Osborn
is focusing on implementing healthy eating programs, including plans for
an organic-when-possible cafeteria. “I want it to be an A school with a
focus on student achievement and life-long learners,” said Osborn, former
principal of Greynolds Park Elementary, whose efforts increased student
achievement and raised their school grade from a C to an A, designating
it a Five-Star School by the Florida Department of Education for
significant parental and community involvement. “I want it to be a safe
environment that will be a pillar for the community,” he added. “It’s a
great community to get involved with. We are looking forward to it.”
Registration is ongoing at Sibley Elementary, located at 255 N.W. 115th
Street, from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm. The PTA is planning a pizza and ice
cream get-together so students and parents can get to know one another
before the commencement of the school year. Notification will be sent
through email.
North Miami Pioneers Seek Office in Dade and Palm Beach!: (Note: This is
for your information only. I know nothing about any of the candidates or
their stand on the issues). Although election day is not until September
5th, you can begin EARLY VOTING ON MONDAY AUGUST 21 for these Pioneers!
For those of you Pioneers who still live in Miami-Dade County, or who
live in Palm Beach County, I thought I would take the time to let you
know about a couple of our fellow alumni from North Miami High School who
are seeking office on Tuesday, September 5th! I hope you'll support them
after you check them out. Incumbent Miami-Dade County Commissioner Sally
Heyman (Class of 1974) is running for re-election to her District 4 seat.
Sally served in the State Legislature and she's made donations to the
Pioneer Pride Fund, too! Her office email, though not her campaign email,
is District4@miamidade.gov. Already an incumbent Miami-Dade County Court
Judge, Bonnie Lano Rippingille (Class of 1965) is seeking re-election in
Group 40. You can reach out to her directly at
retainjudgebonnielanorippingille@comcast.net. Also for Miami-Dade County
Court Judge, Joel S. Jacobi (Class of 1987) is seeking the Group 9 seat.
Joel is already a city councilman for the Village of Bal Harbour. His
email address is jacobilawfirm@aol.com. Rima Bardawil (Class of 1987) is
seeking the Group 78 seat for the Miami-Dade County Court. Recommended by
the Miami Herald, you can reach her at rimaforjudge@bellsouth.net. In
Palm Beach County, Mark S. Pafford (Class of 1984) is gunning for the
open District 6 seat on the Palm Beach County Commission.You can reach
him at markspafford@aol.com. And, finally, cast a vote for Mike Doddo
(Class of 1964) who is running for a seat on the Broward County Court.
Best of luck to our fellow Pioneers! Scott Galvin, North Miami City
Councilman, North Miami High (Class of 1986) and Pioneer Pride Fund
Founder www.scott-galvin.com
Lost Pioneers: The following Pioneers are in our “Lost File”. If anyone
knows anything at all would you please contact me at jrmmgm123@juno.com.
Any little clue could be a big help. Thanks to all those who have
assisted me in the past. With your wonderful help we have reconnected
with many lost Pioneers. It’s especially helpful to the reunion
committees as we are entering the “Big 50” reunions for the early classes
from North Miami High School and don’t want to leave anyone out.
Barlette, Annette (either Class of 1959 or 1960)
Hammock, Fred (Class of 1957-Didn’t graduate)
Rogers, Norma Gail (Class unknown)
Found Pioneers: Below are some of the recently found North Miami High
School Pioneers.
Colletti, Paul (Class of 1958)
Ranch, Gerri (Class of 1958)
Weber, Maureen (Class of 1957)
The Two Bob Geller’s: My brother had a best friend, name of Bob Geller.
His friend Bob, had a sister Maureen. Do you know if this Bob Geller from
NMHS had a sister name of Maureen??? If he did at some time attend Tech
High and has a sister Maureen, then they are one and the same. Let me
know. Judy Mc Caughan. Another e-mail: Bob Geller was a close friend of
mine, but he attended and to my knowledge graduated from Miami Tech
(Lindsey Hopkins). So, unless they are looking for a different Bob
Geller. The Bob I knew also did not live in North Miami. Bob had sister,
Maureen Geller. Anyway, while I was in the Air Force at Dover AFB,
Lillian and I visited Bob Geller and his wife in Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania. Then, we heard that they got divorced. Lost touch with him
after his divorce. Let me know more about this, if you hear anything. Bob
(surname unknown). Our Bob Geller was in the Class of 1958: Don't know if
he graduated with the class. Here is what I have on him: Geller, Robert
(Robert Jon) Sister: Susan, School: 1405 N. E. 140th Avenue, North Miami,
Florida. Graduated 9th grade NMHS. Golf Team, Basketball Team, Student
Council, Key Club. He retired I believe from a fire department but I
can't document that. Jim Our Bob’s old e-mail address was:
capn19hook41@aol.com but that is not current as messages keep bouncing.
Pioneer Notes:
Vic Argento (Class of 1955): Hi! Jim: I am Vittorio (Vic) Argento, a 1955
graduate of North Miami High School. Murray Bailey (Class of 1955) said
you could add me to the mailing list for the newsletter. I would
appreciate it very much if you would add me to the list. My e-mail
address is: envreng@earthlink.net. After many years of work, I have
semi-retired to Cape Coral, Florida. We are kind of just across the State
from North Miami. My home address is 5018 S.W. 8th Court, Cape Coral,
Florida, 33914. I will look forward to hearing all the news from the many
graduates of North Miami High. Thank you very much, Vic
Bonnie Bishop (Class of 1959): Hey Well I must really have had a senior
moment. I wonder who the Larry and Peggy were that I performed the
marriage ceremony for so long ago. I could swear it was Larry McGee.
But I am sure he knows better that I who and where he was married. There
is a Pioneer Larry out there somewhere married to a Peggy (I hope still
married) who were united in marriage by me. Love and smiles to all from
BB. PS: Jackie, I'd tell you where Jack Morgan is now (as he was a friend
of Bill's), but it would probably be another Jack Morgan.
Paul Colletti (Class of 1958): Paul lives in New York with his wife
Dorothy. I have his e-mail and cell phone number and will give it one on
a one-to-one basis only unless Paul let’s me publish it in a future
Pioneer newsletter. New York has a law with a steep fine for talking on a
cell phone while driving so please be advised; ask Paul if he is driving
if you call him. He graduated from HofstraUniversity in New York in 1963.
Paul had 4 majors but taught Architectural Drawing after college. Paul
has two children 1 girl an attorney who is about to move to Boston, and a
son. He did not get to play as much basketball at NMHS as he would have
liked to because Coach Hryne did not care for long outside shooting.
Thanks to Miss Marie Mastropalo for telling me about Paul’s sister Joan
graduating from Barry College in 1957. With that I was able to contact
Gayle Peters who works at Barry and she got me. (Jim-editor).
Suzie Cox (Class of 1958): Jim, It is always such a pleasure to get our
news letter seems it has grown to many other classes how neat. Thanks
always. The Angecilo twins, Tony and Tommy, are from the Class of 1958.
Suzie
Jerry Curry (Class of 1959): Hi, The 40th reunion roster has Jerry Curry
at 609 Walnut St., Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-2527. No phone, e-mail, etc.
Jerry was big Football, Track, Basketball, and all kinds of
committees--someone must know of his whereabouts. Valerie Healey - Class
of 1959
Mario D’angelo (Class of 1960): I have just been forwarded your
newsletter for the first time ever. Thanks for your dilligence in staying
with the herd. We all appreciate what you have been doing, however, could
you please add me to your mailing list, mcdangelo4@earthlink.net. My
phone is 214-668-3799. I remember, while reading your letter, that
someone was looking for our Drum Major, Dennis Silkabakken. Dennis has
continued to do well and I last saw Dennis in Ada, Oklahoma where Dr.
Silkabakken is director of bands at East Central Oklahoma State
University. Sorry I don't have his number, but this should help. I look
forward to your updates. Thanks again. (Note: Dennis is retired and now
living in Florida where he is involved with high schools again).
Jackie Dunkley (Class of 1959): Hi Jim, I do hope things are going better
for you and your family. I am responding to the LOST PIONEER'S part of
your July 2006 Newsletter. Class of 1959: Larry Barger, Peggy Kuck, Gail
Loehnert, Larry McGee, Nancy Selig, Sandra Thompson. I have been in
contact with Larry McGee. He is living in Pilot Mountain, North Carolina.
His e-mail address is larrymc90@aol.com. I have been planning a visit
there but haven't taken the time, but I would love to see him. He only
lives about 4 hours drive from me. I have spoken with him and I know he
would love to hear from other Pioneers. A name that was not listed on
your LOST PIONEER'S list, is Carole Proscia. I would love to find her. We
use to live across the street from here and I have a lot of pictures that
were taken of Carole and me. Anyone with information about her would be
greatly appreciated. As always, enjoy your newsletter and as everyone
else, I appreciate it and know what hard work it is to put a newsletter
together. Keep safe and healthy. Jackie (Note: The above e-mail for Larry
is not good. Does anyone have another e-mail for Larry?).
Dick Gregory (Class of 1958): hi jim, was suprised to see 'larry owen'
was still in n.miami...i used to ride motorcycles with him before he
broke his leg...larry, bob meher and myself rode over to the american
motorcycle assoc'n..gasparilla festival in tampa in 1955...i was 15 yrs
old...larry and i also rode down to south miami [ kendall] one nite just
for a ride and i remember him having an 'asthma' attack,he had to get
some spray from a drug store there...i had a triumph 650cc thunderbird
and he rode a 500cc triumph tiger , i think...was good to hear he was
retired and doing well...he can email me if he wants at
pagrmg4240@hotmail.com. Later, Dick
Roger Hathaway (Class of 1958): Jim, Please start using my tripledip
address because I am about to walk out the door. On the 31st I will
finish my career with NASA and the government with a total of 44 years
and 3 month active service. Now I need to find a hobby, best wishes !!!!
(Note: I have his home e-mail address if anyone needs it)
Mike Henry (Class of 1961): I occasionally see questions in the
newsletters asking if there will be a class of 61 45-year reunion this
year. I have heard nothing of one. At the 40th reunion in 2001, I
volunteered to be on the next reunion committee, but no one has called
me. The last one was organized by Diane (Christianson) McAnnally. Mike
(Note: Does anyone know about the next reunion?).
Peggy Kuck (Class of 1959: Hi Jim, I failed to send you my new email
address when I got a new ISP in April. My new email address is:
peggylounorman@earthlink.net. I can't believe it, but I'd been so busy
(since I retired last October) that I hadn't realized I wasn't getting
the newsletters. I retired after almost 19 years from Lake County on a
Friday. The following Tuesday I received my "Years in Service" award at a
regular meeting of the Lake County Board of County Commissioners, and a
few hours later I was in an ambulance headed for an emergency
appendectomy. Wild retirement kick off, right? The way I see it, that's
one thing out of the way that I won't have to contemplate in my future.
It is thanks to Carol DeLuise Cherry (who forwarded the July Pioneer
newsletter to me) that I realized I needed to contact you. I haven't read
the newsletter yet, but I know I can say even before I read it, it's
great. James, keep up the great work, and please update your data base
with my new contact information. Thanks for all you do. Peggy
Judy LaRosa (Class of 1960): Hi Jim, This is Judy LaRosa Swanson. I just
wanted to let you know how much I appreciate all your efforts in keeping
us in touch with one another and with our "roots." I am currently in
Mongolia (I take occasional trips to support State Dept. around the
world) with time on my hands and since one of my hobbies is finding old
friends via internet sources, I decided to try to locate some of the
classmates in your latest e-mail. I'm not absolutely sure that any of
these addresses/phone numbers will yield the results we want but thought
someone in the States could check them out with a simple phone call. The
names and ages of the people I found match so maybe we'll get lucky and
find some of the "lost Pioneers." (Note: She sent me a list of those who
are on the “Lost Pioneer List” to check out).
James “Red” Leavy (Class of 1960): Thanks for the update. It has been a
long time since I've heard all these names. You have done one hell of a
job keeping up people. Red Leavy
Elaine Medlin (Class of 1957): I came home only one summer and moved out
of Miami after that. I loved Miami, but my life went other directions, I
guess. Miami is very different now. My parents sold the house I grew up
in and retired to a house on Keystone Point, east of Biscayne Blvd. and
north of Broad Causeway. They were there until their deaths and we sold
that property. None of my family is in Miami now, though cousins and
aunts still remain in Broward County. So, I do visit fairly often. My
sister sold her Fort Lauderdale house on June 30th and moved to
Tallahassee, Florida. My brother is in Lake Mary, north of Orlando, and
my other sister is in Manassas, Virginia. My one sister (from Virginia)
has a time share in Fort Myers Beach and she will be there with her
husband in two weeks. I will go down for a few days. It is very hot in
August but we have fun anyway! We go shelling a lot. None of us do
anything with the shells. We just like to find them. Sharon's husband was
a neighbor in Miami but he went to Miami Curley High. A lot of his family
have time shares at the same place at the same time. It is one long
party. My husband could not go last year and will not go this year as he
has contracts to work. But, I will go. School will have just started and
the students will all be in school. I have had virtually no contact with
any of our NMHS friends, until Hank Marcari called me last fall from New
York, and put me in touch with Jim Morgan. Jim, you have been a true
source of who does what and reconnected me to the good memories of those
years. I only made one reunion, the first which I think was a five year
reunion. The date of the 10 year reunion was the day we moved here to
Merritt Island. I hope we can continue our contact. My husband is from a
small high school in Connecticut and we have established contact with
most of that class. We went for their 45th reunion five years ago and are
going for the 50th in late September. We had lost contact with all but a
couple of his classmates until about six years ago. Our working years
were very busy, and I eagerly anticipated lots of free time in
retirement. Who lied to me? I think I am busier yet, but it is a happy
busy. My husband retired in 2001 but was lured out of retirement to
supervise various construction contracts out at the Space Center. It is
more full time than I would like, but he is not one to sit at home. It is
totally different from what he did before, but he had a dual degree and
is over qualified and he is such a space buff that I think he likes it.
We are almost through our second kitchen remodel. If you have not done
that one yet, it is quite an experience. We have two grown daughters who
have moved back to Brevard County with their families. We have such fun.
We are out of the pet business right now, except for two birds that I
inherited. Our intentions were to travel a lot after we retired but they
keep my husband working too much. We have done some trips. We went on a
two week trip to Alaska two years ago. That trip was awesome. We went on
the Coral Princess Cruise Lines, first week on land and second on the
ship. If you have not done that trip, it is one you should not miss. I
want to go to Hawaii again too. Jim, I know from our correspondence that
you have had a busy retirement too, and it sounds like, Bob, that you are
about to be very busy. Do write and fill us in. I do know what a fly
fishing rod looks like. My dad had several fly fishing rods, but I have
not fished with one. In fact, I have not gone fishing in years and years.
I was so sorry to learn that your wife is ill. We will keep you both in
our thoughts and prayers. Please keep corresponding. There is so much to
catch up on. Warmly, Elaine
Phyllis Medlin (Class Unknown): They have sold the house in Fort
Lauderdale and moved to Tallahassee. They are out of the house, but
making a trip back to get what is still in the garden shed. Fortunately,
the new owner says that does not bother him at all, that he is busy
inside the house. They are moving into their daughter's house (their
second house really) and merging two households, both with resident pack
rats, has been a challenge. The yard had some diseased trees. They came
down. The new roof is on, etc. Those who have moved know the routine of a
move. I do not think their computers are even up and running yet. As soon
as I get a new address, I will forward it on in a newsletter.
Dee Padovan (Class of 1957): Hi Jim, I am always amazed at the time and
energy you put into these wonderful newsletters that are allowing us to
reacquaint with old classmates. Thank you; at this stage in our lives,
this is important. Also, thank you Allan Webb for your blow by blow
account of Paul's funeral. For those of us not there, it does shed light
on how admired and loved Paul was by many. I know you two were very good
friends; I love the photos I have of the two of you clowning on the same
mic at our 25th reunion. Priceless. An update on me: My husband of 30
years, Ralph Green, died in 1993. I am now remarried to Jim Einhart, who
was first my best friend. We have been married 7 years and I feel very
blessed. Ralph and I had two sons, who have two children each. Like their
father, they are both general contractors. I still live in Pensacola,
retired from Pharmacy 10 years ago, and now dabble in art and fiddle
playing, and some very bad golf. Gloria Sgro DiSanto, Judy Spence and I
got together in Miami Lakes at the Class of 1955 Fiftieth reunion. It
was a great time, but wish I had kept in touch with more of our
classmates. I especially would like to contact Rosie Donato; we lived
just a few blocks from each other in North Miami. We learned to dance in
her bedroom at slumber parties in the 7th grade. I still remember we
played the same "45" all night long (Steam Boat). I still have that "45"
record as well as all my 45 records. Does anyone have any ideas as to how
to put this music in a more contemporary form? Anyway, Rosie, please
email me at dpgreen5@bellsouth.net. Wish I could help more with the
missing people. Suzanne Mayer was a very good friend of mine but we lost
touch when I left for UF. For those from the Class of 1959, my bother Ray
Padovan is still living in Illinois, and is still teaching at Eastern
Illinois University, and is the head of the swimming program there. He
plays golf everyday, rain or shine, has two grandsons, and visits me and
our mother in Pensacola often. He and his good friend, Harry Wilder
(1959) get together occasionally. All for now. Thanks again Jim for this
opportunity to get in touch.
Rosemary Plunkett (Class of 1958): Dear Jim, You are so on top of things.
Now that I've retired (for the second time), it is wonderful to have the
e-mail addresses for Rosie Donato, Jayne Gaskill, Margo Longman, and Gwen
Johnson. NOW I have time to correspond. Is it possible you also have
e-mail addresses for Mary Gleason, and Paul Colletti? . . . Hooray for
Gayle Peters and Ms. Mastropaolo!! It's fun to recall our innocent youth
and the lovely times we enjoyed at NorMiHi. Best regards, Rosemary
Paul Ponte (Class of 1958): Hi Jim, I remember a Paul Gleason from Class
of 1958, and I think we were in the same home room. Unfortunately, I can
not place the face, only the name. For all of his accomplishments, he has
made North Miami Senior High, (Home of the Pioneers) very proud of him.
For all the things he had done in his lifetime, and accomplished, it
make's me proud to have just been able to know him. Is their someway we
can get a picture of Paul on the Internet? Maybe this way, I would be
able to remember him? I have no year book. Paul Ponte (Note: If you go to
Google and type in Paul Gleason a site shows a few photos of Paul. He
still looked a lot like he did in high school-also in the movie The
Breakfast Club that is on cable about every month or two.).
Gracie Schmidt (Class of 1960): Just want to thank you for compiling the
newsletter...It is a job, I am sure but one you must enjoy. Joanne
Carlton has been forwarding it to me for some time. Some how I accidently
deleted the June installment. Think that was the one with all the info on
Paul Gleason. Is it possible to have you send it again? The July
newsletter was great. Felt like I was able to attend Paul's services.
Thanks very much. I know it meant a lot to a number of people.
Carol Schwartz (Class of 1960): I was in band....a lowly clarinet player.
My maiden name was Schwartz (Carol), and I pulled the emergency cord on
the train, when we were en-route to Jacksonville. My e-mail address is
caandjt@frontiernet.net. My married name is Taggart, and I am living in
Brooklyn, Michigan...(home of the little apple). Carol
Robert Shigley (Class of 1957): I'll bet no one remembers me, Bob
Shigley, Class of 1957. My best friends were Frank Tarbet and Bob Amos
who lived behind me. I dated Elaine Medlin all through High School, fell
in love with her, but we both went off to college and found a new road to
travel. I now live in Evansville, Indiana, and am soon relocating to the
Cumberland Mountains in Middle Tennessee. I was in the television
business for many years in Miami, and other cities, even while completing
High School. Later entered the business world, got fed up with that, went
back to school and earned two Master's degrees and two Doctoral degrees,
entered the ministry, then became President of Master's Divinity School,
then later Vice President of Trinity College and Theological Seminary. I
married Janet Tuller of North Miami, who four years ago suffered a heart
attack and oxygen - loss brain injury. Today she is paralyzed and one
step above a vegetative state. I retired to care for her, and still
manage to take her in wheel chair to various places. I am open up a fly
fishing school in Tennessee in the near future on the Caney Fork River.
Don't know if I can attend the reunion, but I think about the old days
frequently. I have been looking for several people for a number of years.
Maybe someone can help: Fred Hammock who would have graduated in 1957 but
got married and dropped out in his junior year; Jerry Curry who married a
cheerleader whose first name was Pattie. He probably graduated in '59 or
'60. Also, a girl named Norma Gail Rogers who was in North Miami Jr. High
School then moved to Ft. Lauderdale where she attended High School, then
moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee, then back to Florida. She was most
likely in Jr. Hign School in 55-57 - not sure. Would like to find these
people, hope someone can help. Please give my e-mail address out. Hope to
hear from anyone; Dr. Robert Shigley (Note: His e-mail address is:
flyfishcaneyfork@yahoo.com)
Judi Stark (Class of 1960): Dear Jim: Please add me to your newsletter
list. Thanks to your newsletter, my family has reconnected with our
former neighbors, the Kreitzburgs, and I'm sure there will be other names
from time to time that we all have lost touch with over the years. Judi
Dolores Sturtz (Class of 1955): Jim, my name is James Thurston Sr. and I
have been married to Dolores Sturtz 50 years as of OCT 5th of this year.
She is a 1955 alumni. I have a question. Has any of you other graduates
had any experience as an employee of the Kennedy Space Center or the
predecessor USAF Missile Test Center Patrick Air Force, Florida. Most of
this time has been spent in the USA Rocket or Satellite effort. This a
fact, there has never been a USA astronaut launched into earth orbit on a
USA launch vehicle that a Thurston didn’t work on. Either her husband,
brother-in-law’s or son, or nephew, or niece have worked on these
launches and this will continue for many years in the future. She is
married and related to space workers who plan to be around for many more
years. I thought you might like to know “Dody” has been an important part
of the Space program since 1957. Jim Thurston Sr. (Note: Yes, there are
others who work on the Space Program. One is Roger Hathaway from the
Class of 1958. He is a NASA quality engineer as of 1982 for the Kennedy
Space Center as contract manager for NASA shuttle logistics. Is also the
resource manager for White Sands Test Facility, New Mexico).
Frank Tarbet (Class of 1957): I just received the e-mail from Jim Morgan
with your e-mail address. Who could forget bob shigley, but now its dr.
shigley. good for you, i know it was not easy. sorry to hear about your
wife, we will enter her in our prayers. I am living in dunnellon florida,
just west of ocala, florida. my wife is judi huber tarbert, she went to
notre dam acadamey in miami. we met on the northeast airlines "pre
inaugural flight to montreal, canada" in october 1967, and married in
august 1968. she is my only "child" and she says i am her only "child",
that means no children except each other. joined air force out of high
school, went to guam for 18 months ,, then to dobbins afb, marietta ga,
then out and back to miami. went into real estate in 1962, still in it.
handling closings and many other facets now in the community in which we
reside, i.e. rainbow springs. been here 16 years. before that miami 1962
to 1975, then marco island 1975 to 1989, then to rainbow springs. met
rick willer at suntrust bank in dunnellon when i moved here. he was a
year or so behind us. also mike faulkner was living here, not sure if he
still is. too much to put in short email, but glad to make contact with
you, and sent a copy to elaine medlin, who i also remember. funny thing,
lots of long term memory, but short term is another story. Keep in touch,
and again, we will pray for your wife. Remember the Community Center
dances we went to??? Frank Tarbert formerly of Biscayne Gardens.
Edwina Thornton (Class 1959): Hi Jim, As always, I really enjoyed the
most recent edition of the Pioneer Newsletter. You do such a fabulous job
of editing and assembling this wonderful letter to keep us all in touch.
By the way, today my husband Ralph and I are celebrating our 42nd wedding
anniversary!! We met in 1960 while we were both attending Florida State
University. We were married August 1, 1964 at the Church of the
Resurrection in Biscayne Gardens. We lived in California while Ralph
served in the Marine Corps at El Toro, then in Miami from 1968 through
1981 where he was in private law practice. Since 1981 we have lived in
Tallahassee. God has blessed our marriage and our lives in so many ways.
We have two beautiful grown daughters and two wonderful sons-in-law.
These two families live right next door to us here on what we all refer
to as the "Datillio compound." So you see, we really have a unique and
wonderful situation, where we enjoy our children and grandchildren (6
right now, with #7 on the way) on a daily basis. Thanks again for your
efforts at keeping all us Pioneers in touch with each other! Wynn
Datillio
Mike Wilson Class of 1958): When I get your letter each month I look for
Class of 1958 e-mail address, I drop them a note and say hello and wish
them well. Mollie Williams had dropped me a line when she read I was in
Gainesville Shands, we pen pal now, nice lady, she lives 40 miles or so
south of me. So here is a note for next month to conclude the tale of
woe-- as I am doing super-- you may include my -email address in it.
Thanks for the mention of my "past" illness-- I am doing super now. The
fish are not getting a break any more. I just spent 4 nights on my
houseboat over on the Suwannee-- and went out each day into the Gulf and
caught lot of fish!!!! Two months was long enough to be off the water--
so many fish so little time!!! "so break out the bait and haul out the
chum-- look out fishes here I come" Mike Wilson--
keyalaska@worldnet.att.net
A Message from Mongolia: Judy LaRosa Swanson (Class of 1960)
I left Washington, D.C., at 8:30am on Tuesday, 13 June and arrived at the
end of the world about midnight on Thursday. Actually it wasn't as bad
as it sounds because I got bumped up to first class for the San Francisco
to Seoul leg. Now, that's the way to fly! The capital of Mongolia is
Ulaan Baatar and from the little I've seen of the city so far, it is not
one of the 100,000 most beautiful places in the world. It is also the
coldest capital city in the world with temps last year dipping as low as
-54 degrees. Mongolia has been under the thumb of either China or the
USSR for centuries and only began to come into it's own since the fall of
the Soviet Union (it's got a loooong way to go) so I anticipate lots of
improvement in the next century or so. The country is trying hard to
create a thriving tourist industry but I don't see that happening for
many years. Some of the big hotel chains, however, are planning to build
luxury hotels here so there must be potential. My hotel, the Bayangol, is
old and seedy. The bed is so hard it's like sleeping on the floor,
there's no a/c and the plumbing leaks. On the upside, the sheets and
towels are soft and sparkling clean. Holiday Inn has bought the hotel
and I expect will make some major improvements but, unfortunately, not on
my watch. The roads are awful with huge potholes everywhere requiring
drivers to go around them rather than fall in, but that's probably a good
thing 'cause Mongolians are really bad drivers and the poor roads keep
them from driving too fast. Traffic is horrendous and I have yet to see
a vehicle that doesn't have major body damage. Car financing is
unavailable to the average Mongolian so they must pay cash for their
vehicles. Since their average annual income is only about $650 you can
imagine what kind of cars they can afford. The embassy buildings in some
of my previous assignments were so dilapidated that only demolition could
improve them. This embassy is an older building but quite nice. Because
the winters are so cold here, for the first several years after
establishing residence, the US Ambassador spent the winter months in
Seoul. The building has only been opened on a year-round basis since
1996.
This year is the 800th Anniversary of Mongolia and their national hero,
Genghis Khan (pronounced Chinggis Khaan here) and his unification of the
marauding Mongol tribes. The city is expecting a large tourist population
this summer (can ya believe it?). The official celebration, Naadam, will
be held 11-14 July and Mongolians will probably celebrate very
"enthusiastically." Alcoholism is a big problem (I can see why) and the
Regional Security Officer has cautioned us to avoid "drunken individuals
and wild dogs" on the street! The celebration is expected to attract
400,000 visitors and put independent Mongolia on the world map.
However, nearly every construction project is way behind schedule and a
public relations disaster is in the offing. Visitors will face an
insufficient number of (suitable) hotel rooms, an almost complete lack of
public toilets, potholed roads and cracked pavements, and will be
confronted by rubbish everywhere. Now, I just know you’ll put this place
on your “must travel to” list. Interestingly, the younger generation
isn’t even sure that Genghis Khan is the sort of hero they want to
celebrate. They believe Mongolia should be addressing the issue of
corruption, which is everywhere here, and not having a big celebration
for a very cruel man. I think they have a valid point. The food here has
been a pleasant surprise. I have never had Mongolian food and didn’t
know if I could stand 3 months of it so I mailed myself lots of tuna
fish. As it turns out there are lots of places recommended by the
Embassy that serve western food. So far I’ve eaten in an Irish Pub, an
Italian trattoria, and a Mongolian restaurant that serves pork schnitzel
and Hungarian goulash. Best of all, however, there is a small café near
my hotel where I can get grilled cheese sandwiches, Philly steak and
cheese and BLTs, among many other fine foods!
Here are 10 things you never knew about Mongolia: In one Ulaanbaatar
nightclub you can dance with Stalin—at least with his statue. A 12-ft
high monument of the Soviet dictator disappeared from the national
library, only to reappear on the dance floor four years later. Mongolia,
which is the size of Britain, Germany, Italy and France put together, has
the lowest population density of any country in the world. (But you
probably already guessed that.) Foreign diplomats are banned from taking
domestic flights with MIAT, the national carrier, because its planes are
considered too dangerous. Before taking the first sip from your glass of
vodka, it is polite to dip the knuckle of your ring finger into the
drink. Passengers find the step up onto the public buses donated by the
Japanese too high. The joke is that the donors were confused by a
mistranslated document that said Mongolians had high steppes. Throat
singing, in which the performer is able to activate two parts of the
voice box simultaneously, is very popular. Yak polo is becoming one of
the nation’s favorite sports. Everyone has heard of the Gobi Desert but
“gobi” just means “desert,” and Mongolians say the country has 33 kinds
of gobi. Roy Chapman Andrews, a maverick archaeologist who found
fossilized dinosaur eggs in the Gobi Desert in 1933, is the model for
Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Mongolia is the only place
where true wild horses still live. Aren’t you glad you asked?
The Mongolian holiday, Naadam, is finally over and, I must say, it’s been
interesting. Because I’ve had to work 12-hour shifts all week I wasn’t
able to attend any of the events but I did watch some of the festivities
on the TV (in Mongolian, of course). Wrestling, horse racing and archery
are the main events. In one of the horse racing events, the jockeys are
8 and 9 year old children. The horses are walked out to a point 30
kilometers from the arena and at the signal the riders race back as fast
as they can. As you might imagine, the horses are stressed to the limit
and every year some of them just collapse and die right there on the
course. This year was no exception. At least two horses didn’t finish
the race. I think PETA needs to get involved here. While waiting for my
taxi the other day, a man riding a camel and leading two other camels
rode by on a busy street with cars and buses sharing the roadway—and I
didn’t have my camera! The camels here have two humps (bactrian camels)
as opposed to one hump camels (dromedary camels) found in the middle
east. Did you know that a camel's hump is a mound of fatty tissue from
which the animal draws energy when food is hard to find? When a camel
uses its hump for sustenance, the mound becomes flabby and shrinks. A
camel pushed towards the limit of its endurance will, in fact, lose its
hump entirely, the spare skin flopping down to one side of the creature's
flank. A few days' rest with ample food and water will restore a hump to
its firm condition. Water is stored in the bloodstream, not in the hump.
While on these trips I work 7 days a week (usually afternoons and
evenings) so I have to do all my sightseeing in a few precious hours on
weekday mornings but I usually manage to see pretty much everything there
is to see around the city. I’ve almost completed my second month here
and have 33 more days to go. It’s been an interesting trip but I’m ready
to get back to the good ole USA! P.S. I haven’t encountered any wild
dogs (yet).
On the Lighter Side:
Lost in the Fifties
A little house with three bedrooms and one car on the street,
A mower that you had to push to make the grass look neat.
In the kitchen on the wall we only had one phone,
And no need for recording things, someone was always home.
We only had a living room where we would congregate,
Unless it was at mealtime in the kitchen where we ate.
We had no need for family rooms or extra rooms to dine,
When meeting as a family just one room would work out fine
We only had one TV set, and channels, maybe two,
But always there was one of them with something worth the view.
For snacks we had potato chips that tasted like a chip,
And if you wanted flavor there was Lipton's onion dip.
Store-bought snacks were rare because my mother liked to cook,
And nothing can compare to snacks in Betty Crocker's book.
Weekends were for family trips or staying home to play,
We all did things together -- even go to church to pray.
Sometimes we would separate to do things on our own,
But we knew where the others were, without our own cell phone.
Then there were the movies with your favorite movie star,
And nothing can compare to watching movies from your car.
Then there were the picnics at the peak of summer season,
Pack a lunch and find some trees and never need a reason.
Get a baseball game together with all the friends you know,
Have real action playing ball -- and no game video.
Remember when the doctor used to be the family friend,
And didn't need insurance or a lawyer to defend?
The way that he took care of you or what he had to do,
Because he took an oath and strived to do the best for you.
Remember going to the store when the sky's were oh so sunny,
And when you paid for what you got you used your very own money?
Nothing you had to swipe or punch, or put in some amount,
and you had a friendly cashier that actually could count?
The milkman went from door to door,
For just a few cents more than a trip to the store.
The mail was delivered right to your door,
Without the junk mail that we all deplore.
There was a time when just one glance was all that it would take,
And you would know the kind of car, the model and the make.
They didn't look like turtles trying to squeeze out every mile;
They were streamlined, white walls, fins, and really had some style.
One time the music that you played whenever you would jive,
Was from a vinyl, big-holed disc they called a forty-five.
The record player had a post to keep them all in line,
And then the records would drop down and play one at a time.
Oh sure, we had our problems then, just like we do today,
As always we were striving, to find a better way.
But how the simple lives we led, still seems like so much fun,
when the only way to explain a game, was just kick the can and run?
And why would boys put baseball cards between bicycle spokes,
And for a nickel red machines had little bottled Cokes?
This life seemed so much easier and slower in some ways,
I love the new technology but I really miss those days.
So time moves on and so do we, and nothing stays the same,
But I sure love to reminisce and walk down memory lane
I Was There – Allan Webb June 11, 2006
I think I was the first to arrive at beautiful Westwood Memorial Park.
Paul’s wife, Susan had warned me to get there early, she was afraid it
would be standing room only. Besides I didn’t want to miss anything. It
was an gorgeous, sunny late spring morning in LA, a little warm for many,
but perfect for me. Having grown up in Miami, I’ve always felt my best
when I was a little sweaty. I first walked over to Marilyn Monroe’s
crypt. It was surrounded with red and pink offerings in celebration of
her recent 80th birthday. I thought of Elton John’s song “Candle in the
Wind”. I had been to this cemetery before when I lived in LA. It’s a tiny
little site, in a beautiful, quiet setting, hidden inconspicuously behind
tall buildings in a busy business section of west LA, not far from UCLA,
where I attended classes longer than I like to admit. You wouldn’t
stumble on it on. You have to know where to find it. There you can walk
around with your head bowed looking at headstones and recognize name
after name of tinsel town’s most famous celebs.
I looked around and spotted the dug-up spot where Paul was to be laid to
rest. I walked up and saw that they had temporarily set aside Beach Boy’s
singer, Carl Wilson’s headstone to make room for Paul’s interment. The
thought entered my head “just like Paul to elbow someone out of the way”.
Paul was never shy about going after what he wanted.
I walked over to the chapel. It’s small and absolutely picturesque. I
stood in front and greeted arrivals and introduced myself as people
trickled in. I saw familiar faces, not always remembering names of
Hollywood types. I met his widow, Susan, ex-wife, former actress, Candace
Moore, daughters, Shannon and Kaitlin, nephews and nieces and other
immediate family members. As I exchanged greetings and sympathies with
them I realized a side of Paul that I had not experienced. He had created
a wonderful family of engaging, caring people who obviously loved him and
would miss him deeply. Finally, a few people arrived that I already knew,
brother, George and sister, Mary. I was very happy to see ole NMHS pal,
“cool rockin’ Charlie” Lewis walk up. I pretty much hung with Charlie and
George the rest of the day.
I entered the chapel and sat down behind the family, next to Charlie. A
man sat down next to me and introduced himself. He looked familiar. I
later found out he played “Carl” the janitor, in the “Breakfast Club”.
Soft music began to play. The service started out with a impressive slide
show of Paul from childhood on, including some pictures of high school
friends. Father Ferraro read a moving summary of Paul’s life written by
his daughter, Shannon. I pondered why we often learn more about a
person’s life after they are gone then we knew when they were alive. I
vowed to pay closer attention.
There were three “Tribute” speakers on the program. The first was Paul’s
beautiful, 34-year old daughter, Shannon. She spoke about “Daddy” from
her heart. She said she didn’t expect her father to die so young, but
then realized that life was about quality and not quantity. She reflected
on her life with her father. She said he often talked about his old high
school buddies. Mentioned Charlie Lewis, Duke Jack, Bill Hampton and
“Frank the Tank” DeFrancesco. She was so expressive I wondered if she was
an actress. Turned out she had been. She related that when he realized
that he had only a few days to live, he became remarkably at peace with
himself. I contemplated that. How could that be? I didn’t remember Paul
being religious. I’ve always thought that your dying days had to be
terrifying. Then I realized that perhaps our own Paul Gleason was one of
those rare individuals who took every single morsel of God-given talent
he was handed and developed it to the fullest. He figured out what he
wanted and accomplished everything he set out to do. Lived life full out
– petal to the metal all the way! There has to be peace in knowing that.
Next came “bad boy” actor, Charlie Sheen. He sauntered up to podium,
looked around, wiped his brow with his handkerchief and, as he glanced
toward the casket, said “ I think the only one in here not sweating is
Paul”. For Paul, humor seemed appropriate. He spoke of his friendship
with Paul with humor and sincerity. The “Major League” pitcher said that
Paul was the only one he knew who knew more about baseball strategy than
he did.
“Desperate Housewife’s” actor, Richard Burgi gave the final tribute. They
had become best of friends when making a TV series in Hawaii. He
emotionally related the good times that they had together. He closed by
reading a poem from Paul’s recently published book, “Uleta, Blues and
Haikus”. It was a poem describing Paul’s passion for a woman, a metaphor
for Paul’s passion for life. Perhaps too earthy for a funeral but not so
for Paul Gleason’s.
Next young members of Paul’s family lined up, youngest daughter, nephews,
nieces. Each bravely and proudly read a poem that Paul had written. The
line that I remember best went something like, “fame – I like that stuff;
15 minutes – that’s not enough”. A beautiful song, written by Paul, was
played. Paul had talents I didn’t know about.
As the service came to a close, after a playing of “Danny Boy”, Father
Ferraro, noting that it was a bit unusual, asked everyone to rise and
join in a standing ovation for the life of Paul Gleason. A red-eyed,
standing-room-only throng stood and enthusiastically clapped loudly for
several minutes! It seemed so right on. If life was a play, Paul gave an
amazing performance! If life was a ball game, he hit it out of the park!
As I walked out of the chapel, with the procession leading to the burial
site, I committed my first (but not last) faux pas of the day. Before I
left for LA, I had brushed up on the names of the actors in the
“Breakfast Club” and thought I recognized the man walking pace by pace
beside me. I extended my hand and said, “Hi Judd, I’m Allan Webb, I’ve
known Paul since high school”. He said, “nice to meet you…Andy Garcia”.
Mourners gathered at the burial site. The bagpipe playing reminded me of
other such sad occasions I had watched on TV. As all stood at the grave
site after music and prayer, long-stem roses were passed out to mourners
to place on the casket. I took a rose and mournfully placed it on the
casket.
At the very special buffet luncheon at a near-by restaurant after the
service, I got to know his family and friends better. I spoke with his
widow, Susan. She is tall, blonde, attractive, poised and intelligent.
She answered my questions about Paul’s last days with poise and obviously
a heavy heart. I couldn’t help thinking about the contrast between her
and the Paul I once knew.
As I introduced myself and met more people, names placed with faces
became familiar. Interesting people told stories about Paul that I hadn’t
heard. I took furtive pleasure in knowing that I knew stories that they
didn’t know – wouldn’t want to tell. Not to these nice people on this
day. I chuckled to myself as I thought about when Paul had shown up at
the apartment my NMHS football buddy, Frank Rojas and I shared in
Tallahassee. His nose bandaged and eye sockets all black and blue. He hid
out and slept on our couch until he became presentable from the nose-job
he had gotten using some of his professional baseball signing bonus.
Themes about Paul came together as I heard family and friends describe
him throughout the day. He was a renaissance man, an athlete, actor,
brash, artist, loyal friend, family man, father, unique, one-of-a-kind,
opinionated, bigger-than-life character, comedian, raconteur, poet,
writer, ballplayer. Father Ferraro said that although he was sure he was
good with the lady’s, he was a “man’s man”. You would be hard pressed to
name a sports or entertainment celebrity that Paul didn’t know, many of
whom were close friends. I heard stories about Paul and Mohamed Ali, Ted
Williams, Joe Torre, Rickie Nelson, Robert Duvall, Paul Newman, Marlon
Brando, the list goes on and on. He was a collector not only of friends,
but of memorabilia. Charlie Lewis told me his house was his shrine.
I’ve often thought of Paul as a Gatsby-like character who went off and
became rich and famous to impress his old high school buddies whom he
felt didn’t give him the respect he deserved. Perhaps there was some of
that. But in the end I realize that Paul was someone who never forgot his
roots and where he came from. Someone who loved people and truly
treasured his youthful relationships. They say you can never go back –
but you can remember…..
Paul’s pretty and so poised, 11-year old daughter, Kaitlin captured the
whole experience so well in her quote that was printed on the front page
of the program for the service. She was quoted as saying “there will
never be a dull moment in heaven again”. I chuckled to myself as I
thought of my own version, with Paul joining Rojas and Hampton, can you
imagine? God (I’m sure Paul is on a first-name basis by now) has to be
rolling in the aisles!
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