Pioneer Newsletter - October 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
Next Issue-The Big Record North Miami High-Lights of 1957-1958:
Joe Grisillo sent me a copy of” The Big Record North Miami High-Lights of
1957-1958 directed by Elayne Gilbert” in four sections by computer after
he cleaned it up. A friend took the four sections and put them on two
CD’s for me; one CD for me and one that I’m sending to the North Miami
Historical Society for future generations to be hear. Needless to say the
original phonograph record is much better because of the wonderful sound
affects and the different student voices. It is taking me a lot longer to
write down the words because it is on a CD. If it was on a tape I could
start, stop and rewind it much easier. I love the original record. With
the words you just have to imagine at the right places the North Miami
High School Choral singing the Messiah, the school band leading us on to
another victory and the sound of the cheering from the crowd. I wish I
knew who all of the people’s voices are so I could identify them. A few
of the voices are mentioned by name. I’ve got half of the record
transcribed but it is taking to much time as I’m also doing up the
Pioneer newsletter (my top priority) and a lot of genealogical research
for friends.
Genealogy Note: I’ll be resending the first issue of the genealogical
newsletter because I’ve been adding people to the list over the last few
months. Hopefully the second issue should be sent out at the beginning of
November. It’s been on the back burner because of the genealogical
research that I’ve been doing.
Veal Genealogy: Recently I was doing research for a dear friend in
English records at the Salt Lake Family History Library and was shocked
when I found a few hundred people with the Veal surname in a parish in
Somersetshire. I contacted both Jackie and Martha Veal (Class of 1957) in
case they want to research for their ancestors.
Another Hoax:
I received a few replies from North Miami Pioneers telling me that the
information in the last Pioneer newsletter was a hoax. When I first read
it the information sounded very logical and something that should be
passed on to others. Before I ever include anything in future newsletters
I’ll be check them out. I’d suggest that all of us become familiar with
www.snopes.com. Skip MacFarland uses snopes a lot and has correctrd some
other e-mails in the past.
Skip MacFarland (Class of 1957): Hi Jim, Regarding the "Self CPR (Thanks
Judy McCaughan Class of 1958): "article in the last newsletter, it might
be a good idea to suggest in your next newsletter that Pioneer folks read
the snopes article at
http://www.snopes.com/medical/homecure/coughcpr.asp. I think the opening
paragraph of the snopes article tells the story. In short, Cough CPR is a
potential killer. "Origins: This helpful e-mail began its life on the
Internet in June 1999, and in the spring of 2004, a PowerPoint
presentation of it began circulating online. Those kindhearted souls who
started it on its way likely had no inkling the advice they were
forwarding could potentially be harmful to someone undergoing a heart
attack, but that is indeed the case." The article goes into great detail
about the dangers involved in Cough CPR and also points out that every
reference given in the article has been dined. The snopes article has a
number of links that address the dangers of Cough CPR. Unless there has
been a recent medical finding to the contrary, Cough CPR is not something
we want to be telling friends to do. Walk in His Light. Regards, Skip and
Malsoon
Gene Powell (Class of 1956): Hi, Jim, I thought I should comment on the
last item in your great newsletter. This article has been around the
internet for several years and really is not factual. I would refer you
to the Web site, www.snopes.com which is known for accurate reporting on
"Urban Legends and Myths". Here is what they have to say about this item:
http://www.snopes.com/medical/homecure/coughcpr.asp. I hope that it is
not the case that each person receiving this passes it onto ten others.
Warm regards, Gene
Ron Rincones (Class of 1957): Hi Jim, Since I am my families watchdog for
hoax, chain and BS emails, I feel compelled to send the following link to
you. While I'm sure the sender had the best of intentions, chain emails
are rarely factual or should ever be relied on. COUGH CPR.
http://www.breakthechain.org/exclusives/coughcpr.html
Check Out Snopes.com:
Q: What is snopes.com?
A: That is a very good question and I'm glad you asked about it! I know
several of you already know what Snopes is, but for those of you who
don't, let me go over the basics of it with you. Snopes.com is a Web site
that is known as the Urban Legends Reference Pages. This is the site you
can visit to find out if something is true or not. It is 100 percent
dedicated to finding out the truths and falsities of urban legends,
modern day myths and any other stories that travel around the Internet
and the realistic world. For example, maybe you heard a story from one of
your friends, but you're just not sure whether it's reputable or not.
Well, to clear up your suspicions, you can visit Snopes and put your
wonderings to rest. Snopes.com is hosted by Barbara and David Mikkelson,
a married couple from California. They are very determined to provide the
complete truth to their Web site visitors. They don't want anyone leaving
Snopes feeling like they still don't know the facts. They spend most of
their time researching their topics and when I say research, I mean
extensive researching. They also try to include references with their
findings when they can. The official Web site address is
http://www.snopes.com, so make sure you don't get caught by any other
sites trying to do the same thing. Once you get to the Web site, you will
see a bunch of categories listed throughout the page. There's everything
from Businesses to Old Wives' Tales to Sports to Food and so on and so
on. They even have a special category for Disney myths and one for Coke
products. Everything is covered here! Once you find a category you'd like
to find out more about, just click on it and find what you're looking
for. Each story will have a rating of True, False, Multiple Truth Values,
Undetermined or Unclassifiable Veracity. Each one will also have the
facts behind why it's rated the way it is. The Mikkelsons try to keep the
site updated as much as possible. They even already have certain urban
legends about Hurricane Katrina on the site. I know whenever I put
something in the newsletter that doesn't seem real to you readers, you
all let me know if it is or not. For example, sometimes I put jokes in
the Just For Grins newsletter that seem like they are true, but a quick
look on snopes.com tells all of us that they're not! Also, if you'd like
to add your own story to the site, you can use the message board to do
so. Snopes also works with photos, so don't forget to check out those.
You could get lost on this site just searching and searching. You can
learn a lot as well. Have fun and keep it real! ~ Erin (Note: I just
received the above from a group called “Steve’s Computer Tips”. I now use
this a few times every week to check things out that I receive from
friends”.)
North Miami City to Donate Land for 4 New Schools: North Miami is getting
four new schools -- in exchange for city land. Under a plan approved
Tuesday by the City Council, the city will lease 14 acres to Miami-Dade
schools for a new North Miami Senior High on Northeast Eighth Avenue,
where city buildings including a community center and swimming pool will
be demolished. A middle and elementary school will replace the old high
school on Northeast 135th Street, and a second, smaller high school to be
named after former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno will be built near
the city's athletic stadium at Northeast 151st Street and Biscayne
Boulevard. As part of the agreement, North Miami must pay up to $1.6
million to remove soil from Cagni Park, at Northeast Eighth Avenue and
135th Street, where the football field for the new high school will be
located. Arsenic contamination was found at the park during the school
board's preliminary investigation of the land. The city also could be
liable for sharing costs if more contamination is found as city buildings
are demolished. The county School Board approved the plan last week.
Groundbreaking is scheduled in November, and all four schools are
scheduled to open by 2010. Until the David Lawrence K-8 center opened
last month, no new schools had been built in the city for 50 years.
(Note: The above article was forwarded to me by Diane "Christensen"
McAnally Class of 1961-later by a few other Pioneers).
New Deceased Pioneers (Class of 1958):
Richard Brenner (Class of 1958): Richard Brenner died on November 18,
2001. Cause of death is unknown.
Fritz Holcker (Class of 1958): Frederick (Fritz) Holcker died in October
1983 in Palm City, Martin County, Florida. Cause of death is unknown.
Florita Wise (Class of 1958): Madeline Florita Wise died on September 30,
2005 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Cause of death is unknown.
Seeking Information on Victor Blix: A Class of 1958 Pioneer is seeking
information on Victor Blix who was either in the Class of 1959 or 1960.
The Pioneer have reason to believe he is deceased. Want to verify that
information and also what he died from, if it is true. Any information
would be greatly appreciated. If not, would like current contact
information on Victor.
Lost Pioneer List: Below is the current list of those on the Class of
1957 “Lost List”. In September I was able to give Audrey Axelson
information on about 20 on her list. I need to thank Robin McGary (Class
of 1966), the VOODOO QUEEN. The reason I now call her the Voodoo Queen is
because when I e-mail her asking for help I always think of the words
from an old song “do the voodoo that you do so well”. Robin has about 25
sites that she is able to check for divorces, marriages, property
ownership, etc. SHE IS TOTALLY AMAZING. One example: Mary Ann Dixon
(Class of 1958). That’s all I could tell her. With that information she
gave me Mary Ann’s spouse and current snail mail address. Robin’s maiden
name is McGary. She had a sister Cheryl who died this year (Class of
1962) sister Pat (Class of 1964) and a brother Charles aka Buzzie (Class
of 1966) and they lived at 1040 NE 138th Street in North Miami. If you
know anything about any of the people on the “Lost List”, no matter how
small a clue could really assist us. The hardest one’s to find are the
females without a married name but it is not impossible.
In the field of genealogy I could beat Robin nine out of ten times but
with those from high school Robin usually beats me with the same odds on
the real difficult cases. I only ask her to help with the hard cases
after I’ve given up all hope on finding. I’ve been asked how I can find
people so easy. In many cases, yes it is easy but over half of the lost
Pioneers takes time because our classmates have moved a lot. For the
deceased it’s not that hard at all. The Social Security Death Index is
updated on one list every 30 days while two other sites can take from six
months to two years to be posted. Those of us who received our social
security cards while attending North Miami High School our cards start
with 261-267 (Dade Counties assigned numbers in the 1950’s). Mine starts
with 264. By doing an advanced search and filling in the name and State
of Florida you can find a Pioneer who has died anywhere in the world.
Another list that is used gives the name, address and in many cases the
month and year of birth. A person is listed for about the last five years
(in some cases there are ten or more entries-many without any birth
information). Usually when a female student is divorced or widowed she is
now listed alone but often by her initials. Robin e-mailed her list of
sites to me a few months ago (over 25) but in many cases I haven’t
learned how to use them correctly yet.
Found Pioneers (Class of 1958): Within the last month I have found over
seventy lost classmates from the Class of 1958. Some were with the
excellent assistance of Robin while others were on my own.
Dave Altman, Sharon (Sherry) Arent, Henry Aulwurm, Delia Breedlove,
Barbara Britton, Ralph Bove, Claudia Cahill, William Compton, Dale
Comstock, Sharon Craig, Sonia Cummings, David Currier, Mildred Ellis
Henry Fischer, Dave Fortgang, Barbara Gondeck, Barbara Green, Stuart
Greenberg, Hazel Greer, Melvin Kelem, Carol Griffiths, John Alan
Hackenson, Dorothy Haire, Ina Bell (Pat) Harper, Richard Holcker, Charles
Huber, Richard Hyde, James Hyder, Natalie Jankow, Ann Jerrett
Barry Kennard, Robert Klingberg, Barbara Lackey, Arlene LaLinga, Pat
Lavac, Henry Levin, Michael Mallory, Robert McManus, Irene Migliorato,
David Multz, Donald Nash
Leilani Paisley, Dorothy Jo Pluta, John Post, John “Jett” Powers, Phyllis
Reavis, Carl Reiseg, Valera Rice, William Rigdon, George Rowe, David
Rubin, Nancilee Ryan, Annette Scher, Efrain Serrano, Elaine Sher,
Lorraine Shapiro, James Sloan, John Sloane, Daniel Dale Smith, Robert
Wells Smith, Robert Stahl, Thomas Stahl, Sandra Stevens, Arnold Tanner,
Patricia Townsend, Joseph Turse, Russell Twiford
Ray Vaughan, Norma Webb, Joel Weber, Stanley Weissman, Raymond Whitmarsh,
Edwin Wimmers, Michael Wolz
Lost Pioneer List (Class of 1956):
Alyce Brown has done a remarkable job in finding “Lost Pioneers” from the
Class of 1956. The last time that I heard from her she now only has 21 on
the “Lost List”. The Class Reunion will be held later this month and
hopefully I’ll have an update for next month’s Pioneer newsletter on how
the “Big 50” was.
Katherine Allen, Barbara Baker, Carole D’Allesando, Linda Davis, Barbara
Dolan, Robert Dunn, Johnny Gallagher, Lavern Glover, Gail Gordon,
Catherine Harvey, James Jones, Betty Jarrett, Kenneth Johnson, Catherine
Kelly (married surname Barton), Byran Mangrum, Margaret Mundy, Betty J.
Prim, Joseph Roberts, Ralph Walker, Faye K. Wilson, Barbara Wiskerman
Lost Pioneer List (Class of 1957):
Audrey Axelson is still very busy trying to find her “Lost Pioneers”
About a week ago those listed below were still missing. We need help
especially with the females. Does anyone know their married name?
Edward John Abrams, Clara Pauline Allred, Virginia Darelene Arvin (Rice),
Mary Margaret Axt, Wayne M. Barnes, Dana Rae Biggs, Harriet Louis
Bindler, Rosena Mae Booher, Joel Brill, John Joseph Brown Jr., Ruby
Isobel Brown, Ellen Leilani Bruce, Thomas John Bryan, Joan Denise Burke,
Mary Ann Calabrese, Brenda Caprio, John Gordon Cardono, Delores Del
Carter, Pat Cartwright (spouse Glenn Storey), Jeanne Florence Cervoni,
Lucy Alice Chamberlain, Mina Beth Chambers, Elaine Diane Cicerone,
Patricia Louise Conrad
Mary Patricia Edmunds, Kathleen Jean Fleischiner, Norma Elizabeth Fleming
Lawrence William Gallagher, Elyse L. Gardner (DeLoach), Karen Ann George,
Nancy George (Phelps), Irene Joan Gianaris, Jeanette Dolores Glover,
Sandra Ethel Goldstein, Jackie Dean Gordon, Therese Granerasso, Nancy Lou
Gray, Francine Greene, Claire Howard Greenwalt, James Grimes, Rudy Hahn,
Bernice Mary Hand (Stephenson), Donald Edward Hanson, Seena Jacqueline
Hardie, George Harris, Jackie Lee Harris (spouse Charles Giles or surname
Talley), Edward Wesley Hart, Suzanna Louise Hotchkiss, Beverly Anita
Hungerford
Evelyn Marie Jaynes, Joyce Marie Jolly, Lynn Morrison Jones, Frances Rita
Kay, Patricia Ann Kelley, Alice Knowles, Joan Kolwicz (spouse Ed
Robinson), Rosale Kowalchuk, Robert Harry Krider, John David Juiken,
Judith Kay Kunkle, Frank Larosa, Alice Faye Lenhart, Sally Rae Little
(Alvarez)
Suzanne Mayer, Richard Lewis McGraw, Rodney Wayne Miller, Mary Anne
Milmore, Thomas Walter Moore, Geneva Joyce Morgan, Delmira Munoz,
Claudette Orgena (married surname Columbo)
Sandra Kay Pelsman, Lillian Evelyn Ranger, Martha Annette Renfroe, Cella
Rogers (Bisbop), Beverly Rossman, Susan Carol Rowe, Geraldine Evelyn Rust
Doris Sandy, Charles Hadley Sapp, Harriet Ann “Nancy” Schultz, Sandra
Schwartz, Barbara Ann Selig, Joan Carole Senk, Daniel Wallace Smith,
Thomas Arley Smith, Lillie LuNell Stanley, Monty Clay Steele, Jere Ann
Stegall, James Edward Stephenson, Joan Mae Surman, Adrienne Elaine
Tesser, Esther Turpin (Jacobs)
Mary Ann Vernol, Irene Victor, Jean Westom (Mullins), Roberta Wexler,
Evelyn Theresa Whitehurst, Linda Raye Wiley, John Marshall Wilson, Randal
Wilson
Lost Pioneer List (Class of 1958):
The names for those from the Class of 1958 will be listed in the next
Pioneer newsletter. In the past few weeks I have received contact
information on a lot from the Class of 1958. Many are snail mail
addresses so I’m writing to each of them but I still have a lost list of
missing Class of 1958 Pioneers.
The three married classmates listed below are a real problem because of
their married surnames. Both are very unusual. I suspect that they were
incorrectly given in the 10th Reunion booklet. Any clue on both of them
would be greatly appreciated. Send any comments to me at:
jemmgm123@juno.com.
Melanie Rae Hausman (born 1939-1941). Married: William Stiloff. I can't
find anything about any person with that surname. That is how it was
spelled in the 10th year reunion booklet. At that time she was living in
Miami Springs. She was on the "lost list" in the 25th year booklet and no
one from the reunion committee has had an update since the 10th year
reunion. Melanie is on my "hot list" as I have three people who want to
get in contact with her.
Sharon Kay Jackson (born 1939-1941). Married: Andrew Kilora. That is how
it was spelled in the 10th year reunion booklet. She was on the "lost
list" in the 25th year booklet. Sharon had two children that I know of:
daughter Deanna Lynn born about 1962 and son John Kenneth born about
1964. In 1968 she was living at: 525 North East 159th Street. The above
address was the same address that she lived at while attending NMHS. I do
not know if her husband was with her at that address or not. The surname
"Kilora" is very unusual. I rarely find it anywhere in the United States.
Again it could have been spelled wrong.
Barbara Ann McCoy. Married: Andrew Loricono about 1960, place unknown. I
can't find anything about Barbara after the listing in the 10th year
reunion. She was listed in the 10th year reunion booklet as Barbara Ann
McCoy Loricono, living at19001 North West 43rd Avenue. She was not listed
in the 25th year booklet at all. She attended Florida State University
for only one year. I gather she met her future husband there. The surname
"Loricono" is very unusual. I suspect that the name of Loricono is
spelled wrong.
Class of 1958 Graduation- Question and Answer:
Question from Joel Lanken: Jim, do you have any idea what how many people
graduated in 1958? Of that number can you determine how many have passed
away? Thanks for your assistance. Joel
Answer: I need to answer this question in three parts because it is more
complicated than you would expect.
Part One: On the graduation program there are 561 names listed. One, Carl
Reiseg is listed as graduating in abstensia. Four others completed their
class work in February 1958.
Part Two: We have a large group of classmates who attended NMHS and would
have graduated with the Class of 1958 if they had stayed at NMHS. Some
moved away with their families while others joined the military. WE also
had Pioneer who were transferred to Hialeah High when it opened but still
considered themselves Pioneers because they went through junior high and
part of high school at North Miami. A few on that list are: Bill Adams,
Dick Eberts, Eleanor Kilgaski, Earle Lillard, Andy Murcia, Phyllis
Partee, John Sgro, Barbara Stewart, Mollie Williams. I, Jim Morgan, am
also on that list. This list also includes some (23) who are listed in
the 1958 yearbook but were not on the graduation program.
Some of them easily could have graduated with the Class of 1958 but for
some reason were left off the official list.
Part Three: Some names are listed on Classmates.com and Reunion whom I
can not identify at all as having attended NMHS. The list isn’t long but
it does have about a dozen names. They are currently included in my
master database of 634 with a notation that they are unknown as being
Pioneers. In the past I have found that some were the children of Class
of 1958 Pioneers and they registered under their name and not under the
parents. I try to check each of them out before I delete them.
So to answer the question: 561 on the graduation program, 644 total in
the database and 77 of the 634 have been documented as dying. Not all of
the deceased were graduates. I’ll publish the list in the next Pioneer
newsletter.
Pioneer Notes:
I want to clarify before anyone questions about a person not being in the
graduating class that they are mentioned with in the Pioneer newsletters.
I include any one who attended North Miami High School (many graduated
from the ninth grade as NMHS) and would have graduated with that class so
we can identify them. Many went to North Miami High School and then later
transferred to Hialeah High School (not by choice). Also, I always list
the female students by their maiden name because that is how each of us
remembers them back in the 1950’s.
Audrey Axelson (Class of 1957): I am in the middle of trying to get my
2nd Reunion Letter out and thought of you!!! How do you do it! Mine is so
insignificant compared to what you do....hope you never throw in the
towel....we need you too much. I don't even think you begin to know how
important you are to so many people. You are the NMHS Glue! That doesn't
sound very flattering, but believe me it is. You have connected so many
people. Another feather in your cap...genealogy...how many have you
hooked up with their past or showed them the way? Time for you to sit
back and pat yourself on the back. I haven't had time to do a thing with
my new program or my family tree...too busy with my grandkids and all
that goes with it. Just had our latest grandchild's christening. Life is
good. Gotta get back to work. Audrey (Note: Sorry but others write most
on the Pioneer newsletter. I just put it all together)
Terry Baggett (Class of 1958): Thanks for keeping me on your "inactive
list". Here is some information for you. My brother is retired from the
Air Force so he has been stationed in many places. I am not surprised
your friend has lost a contact of him. When he retired he went to St.
Petersburg to settle (because my parents had moved there after they
retired from the Railroad.) They have both passed on; he has remarried
and just moved to another house. His new address is: T.A.Baggett 5824
Mangrove Street North, St. Petersburg, Florida 33703 Cell #
727-692-4079. I have written to Carol Gardener Lux to the address you
gave me but she has divorced and her x-husband forwarded to her. She is
now living with a daughter: in Washington state if you want to change
your books. Her new address is Carol J. Lux, 855 Hummingbird Drive,
Othello, Washington 99344–1238. I was sad to here Gloria Reis had passed
away. She was both my and Carol's friend so I let Carol know. I probably
said 1960 for Harriet Murphy but she graduated the year after us (so that
would be 1959) I think her married name was DeLoss or something like
that. I would love for you to research that for me. On Richard Bennett,
that "may?" have been another school (maybe my 9th grade. I went to Ada
Merritt School down town before we moved to North Miami). He went with a
girl named Jackie something, a very pretty blond and I always thought
they would marry. He was our grade so if you don't have him listed he
must have been from my other school. All of those kids went to Edison
High???? My! Six years! You must really know a lot of people from that
class. I wish I knew more people. My husband & I went to the 5th or 10th
reunion and no one was there from "my group". Of course I never told them
I was coming I wanted to surprise them coming all the way from
Massachusetts. My husband wondered if I knew anyone) (Of course, there
were only 18 in his class from Southboro, Massachusetts). He will have
his 50th this year too. I did write to Margie Little but had no reply. I
may try again. Must go and get ready for a wedding. Thanks again for
keeping me posted on you inactive list. May God Richly Bless you and
yours, Terry (Therren Baggett) Strout
Alyce Brown (Class of 1956): Hi Jim, Here's Jim Mathis email:
JimLMathis@earthlink.net. Also Lost 1956 classmates we're still searching
for: Katherine Allen, Barbara Baker, Thomas John Bryan, Charles Cundiff,
Carole D'Allesando, Linda Davis , Barbara Dolan, Robert Dunn, William
"Bill" Emery, Johnny Gallagher, Lavern Glover, Gail Gordon , Catherine
Harvey, James Jones, Betty Jarrett, Kenneth Johnson, Catherine Kelly
(Barton), Bryan Mangrum, Margaret Mundy, Betty J. Prim, Joseph Roberts,
Steve Shelby, Raylene Snesil, Ralph Walker, John Wallace, Faye K. Wilson,
Barbara Wiskeman, Carol Falkenstein (married to Joe Ault NMHS 1955).
Plans are 99% finalized for our Class of 1956 Reunion and only a month to
go!! Alyce Brown (Hundley) Go PIONEERS!! (Note: Bill Emery has a sister
Mary but she is on our “Lost” list also-A few on the list above have
recently been found and contacted for the Class of 1956 “Big 50”
reunion).
John Brown (Class of 1958): Jim, I am recovering from a serious auto
accident last year, July 2005. I was in the hospital for 270 days. And
I'm still in rehab. This coming Friday (end of September) I will go back
for my eleventh surgery. The Doctors gave me no chance of walking again
but with my family’s prayers, I've been able to walk with the help of arm
crutches for short distances and the old stand by wheel chain. I can use
our class mates prayers also. Thanks for the great job you are doing to
keep us informed about Class of 1958. John B. (Note: John’s e-mail
address is: jaymar38@msn.com. I’m sure he would love to hear from other
Pioneers).
Miss Mary Calley (Teacher-NMHS): Sorry Jim, I cannot help you out on Mary
Niles. I know nothing about where she lives or if she is living. Do you
have Marie Mastropaolo address? She may know, they were good friends.
Thanks for all your work on our behalf. Things are OK here but we are
sweating out the hurricanes at this time of year. We have been lucky so
far. Love, Ms.Calley (Note: Thanks to that lead I was able to find out
that Mrs. Mary Niles died many years ago.)
Roderic Cluett (Class of 1958): Jim, I am Roderic Cluett (Rod) who
graduated in 1958.
Since that time I have been 8 years in the Air Force serving in Turkey,
Vietnam, and in the U. S. I was a electronic Tech repairing all nav-aids
on the airplanes. In 1960 I got out as they wanted me to return to
Viet-Nam and began working at Digital Equipment Corp in Massachusetts.
After 32 years I retired in 1999. I have 3 children with 5 grand
children. My wife died in 2000 at 54 years old. I work part time for IBA
which is a company that supplies Dairy Products to farmers all over the
world. It’s a company owned by 2 brothers and annual gross is near 90
million. I work from 7 a.m. to noon 5 days. The company has customers in
your area. I have friends who were out your way this month for the
American Legion Convention. I spend time with cribbage and improving my
house. I also am known for spoiling my grand children. I do not remember
any of the names from 1958. I go to Clearwater Florida a lot and stay
with friends. I also spent 2 years at Cape Kennedy and was able to go to
Miami on weekends. Great hearing from you and enjoyed your letter. My
e-mail is attached. Rod
Hope Davis (Class of 1957): Hi Jim, I just wanted to let you and the rest
of our NMHS alums know how much I am enjoying Marshall Franks' new book,
"Brutally Frank: Militant Islam in America". This book is non-fiction
and it is SCARY!!!! The book is VERY well researched and extremely well
written. Marshall not only tells us how Islam has been taking over our
country for the past 30 years (and right under our noses), but he tells
us what we must do NOW to stop it. We, the silent majority, have had our
heads stuck in the sand for much too long and we need to get smart and
ACT now. I passed the book on to my daughter, and she was also impressed
by how well written it is - she was quoting parts of it to her husband.
And, when I mentioned it to a friend that I play on-line bridge with in
Pennsylvania, he said someone in his office had a copy and was going to
loan it to him. So, maybe the word is getting out about the terrors we
face if we fail to stand up now and act. We may have Marshall Frank to
thank for this. I heartily encourage everyone to get a copy - AND - pass
it around to all you know!!! Hope (Note: Marshall Frank's is Marshall
Strauss (Class of 1957). Many never knew him by the surname of Frank so I
usually include both surnames because we are adding Pioneers every month
to the Pioneer newsletter).
Ron Didomenico (Class of 195?): Hi Jim, I am interested in getting in
contact with 2 people that I know and sent you a e-mail on your September
newsletter, Tom Sgro and Shirley Stafford. Please contact them and give
them my email address or ask them if it is all right for you to give me
their email address. Thank you, Ronald Didomenico at:
helloitsron@bellsouth.net. (Note: I sent him both of there e-mail
addresses and also a copy to Ron-also put Audrey Axelson in touch with
him).
Janice Ellerin (Class of 1959): Hi Jim, This is Janice Ellerin Carmichel
from the Class of 1959. I have a copy of the record you are talking
about. I remember my husband trying to make a copy for you and sending
it. I know it didn't come out too clear. It was when you went to a class
reunion. I was on the staff of the yearbook that year. After the book was
done and the final parts sent in we had so much time left. That is when
it was decided to make the record. We just got back from a trip to Los
Angeles and a stop at Las Vegas where I left a little donation. We are
going on a cruise in December with some friends. It will be 8 days of
heaven. I love being waited on. Thanks again for all your hard work
putting this newsletter out. I look forward to it every month. You are
one special person.
Mary Gleason (Class of 1959): Dear Jim, I really appreciate you, and
especially liked the list of NMH staff and teachers, who were all there
in 1959 as well. I'm wondering which ones are still in life, and
particularly if Patrick Delong is alive, and whether he is related to Ed
Delong. Ed, I hope you and your wife regain your health-- hang on. Linda
Rehler (Class of 1959) is thriving in Durham, where she gets great
medical treatment, and her new vocation is comforting infants in the
neo-natal unit of a hospital there. She is a bona fide cuddler, and loves
every minute. I've finished a new book, and am looking for an agent and
publisher. Did anyone at NMHS become one of those? (Note: Ed is not
related to Mr. Delong).
Gwen Johnson (Class of 1958): Hi Jim, Once again I thank you for all you
do to keep us updated with as many childhood friends as possible. What a
great service you are doing and without compensation!! This is a rare
gift you are giving all of us. Do you hear from Gordon Branch? He use to
live behind us in North Miami and we would walk to school together along
with the Roller brothers. I have an old picture of him and my brother Ted
in jackets that my at-that-time boyfriend had brought back from TDY in
Korea. I know he was on the football team at NMH. When we first knew him
he was Gordon Majors. Anyone know where he is? I've been playing catch-up
with Rosie Donato since you gave me her E-mail address. She is still in
touch with many of our classmates. I didn't graduate from North Miami
High because we moved to Fort Lauderdale the summer after my ninth grade.
I did go to school in North Miami from third grade to ninth grade and so
far can still remember many of the "kids" that I lived near and went to
school with. Although I heard it said that it's short term memory that is
the first to go. Thanks again, Gwen. (Note: I sent Gwen his contact
information. Does anyone have an e-mail address for Gordon "Twig” Branch?
I think I have it but not positive if the information is correct. As far
as not graduating with the Class of 1958 we welcome anyone who would have
graduated with the class.)
Peyton Kendall (Class of 1958): Jim, This may not be the first message
regarding my new email address, but my service provider had my account
locked out in error and I haven't received any e-mails for a week or more
until late this afternoon when it seems they finally fixed the Problem.
My new address is: peytonkendall@wk.net. Sorry for any inconvenience and
please set me up with the new address. Thanks, Peyton (Note: It works
fine now so if you want to contact Peyton use the above e-mail address.)
Second e-mail: My correct name is Samuel Peyton Kendall. I went by Peyton
except for the wood shop teacher who called me Sam. There are a few
people who still call me Sam. My first wife was Janet Grace Miller (Class
of 1960 I think). Her father was the Mayor of North Miami. My second wife
was Marie F. Lisano, she was previously married to "Fritz" Feickert.
Charlotte Ann Burton (Class of 1958) was married to my older brother
William Vernon Kendall who did not attend North Miami High. I hope this
straightens out you records. You should see the names I get on junk mail
as a result of using my middle name. Keep up the good work Jim. We lived
only a few blocks from each other but I can not remember meeting you.
Sincerely, Peyton (Note: this was in reply to a mix-up of having
Charlotte as his wife, not his brother’s wife. He also sent me
Charlotte’s e-mail address).
Gloria King (Class of 1958): (Note: Gloria has moved. Her new address is:
4300 Riverside Drive #149, Punta Gorda, Florida 33982-She does not have
an e-mail address right now but should be connected again real soon).
Tom Kolher (Class of 1955): Jim when I read about Charles Bee's e-mail
address, I contacted them by phone. They have shut their e-mail account
is down for now. They said I could e-mail you and let you know. Thanks
Tom K
Lanny Limoges (Class of 1958): Hi Jim, Yet another great newsletter! I
really enjoy keeping up with our classmates through your amazing efforts.
I'm still in Okinawa for who knows how long. I really love teaching for
the University of Maryland here in Asia and it feels great knowing that I
am helping our fine service men and women complete an education. Just
imagine how these fine Americans not only put their life on the line to
defend America but after working 50 to 60 hour weeks come to my night
classes often til 11pm at night. When I think of our freedom I know who
to thank! When I reviewed your list of missing Pioneers I did not see
some names I submitted a couple of years ago. Marylyn Miller 1958 (we had
two as I recall) This Marylyn was a DCT student in Mrs. Breese's class. I
heard she married a Marine and was last known to be in the Washington DC
area. Another is Louise Stokes, last seen driving a Porsche around NMHS.
As for favorite teachers, I had many, but Jules Goldberg, American
history, so moved me in the direction of education that after taking his
class the spark was forever lit. I so remember being captivated with his
lectures on the battles of the Civil War, especially the Battle of
Gettysburg. We were blessed with so many fine professionals that
influenced our lives forever. As the ole adage goes "I wish I knew then
what I know now" (Note: I could only find one Marylyn Miller who married
John McElroy. He was a Marine from Baltimore, Maryland-I have no current
information on her).
Margo Longman (Class of 1958): I really enjoy receiving the Pioneer News
Letter each month, thank you so much for undertaking this task I really
enjoy it and yes, I remember "The Big Record North Miami High-Lights of
1957-1958 directed by Elayne Gilbert. Anxious to read words...The Pioneer
Memorial Scholarship Fund is a good thing and your idea is great! Thanks
in advance for the names, also teacher's names. Love, Margo
Miss Marie Mastropaolo (Teacher-NMHS): I regret to have to tell you that
Mary Niles died some years ago. I'm not sure exactly when. We had been
out of touch for a while, but I have very fond memories of many happy
times. Marie
Jay Meyers (Class of 1958): Jim, Thanks for taking the time to write.
Receiving your letter was like a breath of spring air, as I’ve had very
little contact with classmates over the years. I’ve lived in the
Melbourne area off and on since graduating in 1958. I’m still active as a
General Contractor and maintain a workaholic schedule, with 60-80 hour
weeks because of demand. Many of the names in your letter are familiar
ones, although I haven’t heard them in some 48 years. I ran into Jayne
Gaskill in New Smyrna Beach, Florida while doing a renovation of the
Coast Guard Station there. At that time, nearly 3o years ago, she had
just remarried and was doing very well. My best friend from high school
was Dave Prevatt, who was active in sales for most of the 60’s and became
a Pastor for the Christian Church in Miami in the 70’s. I lost tract of
him in recent years and would be interested to know what became of him.
Nan Bell was a classmate that I remember well but lost track of. Duke
Jack was a good friend while growing up and wanted to be an airline pilot
like his father. Tom Maxey and I played baseball together from Little
League and was a good friend. John Angelico joined the Air Force out of
high school and traveled the world. I wonder what all of these people are
doing now. Any insights you might have would be of interest. Two long
term marriages have ended in divorce for me, but in the process four
children were successfully raised and all are doing well. I’m just
finishing up a new large custom personal home that has been years in
planning. Life is good. I’m looking forward to checking out your websites
and would enjoy receiving your newsletters. Jay (Note: I sent Jay an
update with contact information on Jayne Gaskill, Dave Prevatt, Duke
Jack, Nan (Ina Bell) Harper, Tom Maxey and John Angelico)
Michael Morgenstern (Class of 1968): Just got your newsletter for the
first time from Lew Jack (Ljack07@aol.com). As it turns out my wife used
to work with Susie Cox who was in your Class of 1958, who became Susie
Gibson, who became Susie Marino and lives in Orlando. Unfortunately we
haven't kept in touch with her in recent years. I have traveled around
this great country of ours, and my wife of 35 years is always amazed that
I run into former Pioneers. I do keep in touch with attorney David
French, Class of 1968 who lives and works in Boca Raton. When I was at
North Miami, Dale Boggy was principal. Mr. Dutton was vice-principal in
charge of paddling. Mr. Handy was our service club, Interact, sponsor and
taught chemistry. Mrs. Hicks, the speech coach, was my favorite. I work
as a expert witness in personal injury cases and would be a happy Pioneer
to get your newsletter. My graduating class had over 1,000 students and
graduation was at the Miami Beach Convention Center on a Sunday. Another
ex-Pioneer I know from Class of 1966 is Jeffrey Weiner a nationally
prominent criminal attorney. Also in my graduating class is the honorable
Ursual Mancuso-Ungaro who became a circuit court judge and is now a US
federal judge, southern district. Not only was I born in Miami I have
always resided here all of my 56 years. Good luck to you and all my
fellow Pioneers. Godspeed. Michael Morgenstern ksuem@aol.com
Kenneth Orlaska (NMHS) and Pat McGary (Class of 1965): The e-mail below
is from their son: My father Kenneth Orlaska is in EXTREME bad health...I
don't expect him to live much longer maybe to spring... for all intense
and purposes he's dead already/quality of life is non existence...bed
ridden, very bad depression, dialysis 3 times a week and EXTREME yoyo in
vitals/sugar...Stroke or low blood pressure...is the way he'll go...I
hope it's in his own bed and own house and painless...I love him very
much and these words aren't easy for me but they are the facts...there's
a lot I'm leaving out so please read between the lines...it's bad and
that's coming from a Fireman that see's all kinds of bad stuff...for
what's it worth he's comfortable with his decision...and made them as a
grown man and doesn't want us to not live our life because of him...he's
content...Now for the favor....My mother (Patricia McGary Orlaska) is in
a incredible rough time in her life...extremely overwhelmed and pass any
person breaking point...money is tight, hours are long and her own health
is very much affected....as would any body in the same
circumstance...matter of fact 90% of other people would of break a long
time ago...there very little positive people in her life and so much
negative...Believe me a lot is left unsaid here...and very little time
for herself...it takes a lot of people to take care of 1 person. Other
than her dogs she needs more interaction with positive people in her
life...we all need to lean on our friends sometime...I'm asking for
everybody to send a e-mail to her from time to time a phone call, take
her to dinner or let her cook for you "she's a great cook!" a post card
or even a care package...anything that's positive...please be
creative...I don't ask for favors very much and I would take it as a
great personal favor if I can get any help. A good son, Patrick Orlaska.
P.S. please send this to any family and friends that are in my mothers
circle I have so very few...but please keep this from her...thank you and
I owe you all a lot...now get to work! Thank you!!! The e-mail address
for Pat and Kenneth is: patriciaorlaska@hotmail.com Address is: Kenneth
and Patricia Orlaska
12211 Millbanks Drive, Houston, Texas 77031 H: 281-495-4928 (Note:
Patrick isn’t sure what year his father graduated from NMHS but it was in
the late 1950’s he thinks).
Vennie Pent (Class of 1956): Jim, once again great job. I especially
enjoyed the segment on John Holliday. Rosemary and I will be attendong
the 50th reunion in Orlando later this month.
Sandi Rubenstein (Class of 1957): Dear Jim, I'm amazed that every month
you have dedicated yourself to keeping all the Pioneers informed. You've
enabled us to keep our memories alive through your newsletter and have
made it possible for us to share our youth more vividly with our children
and grandchildren. Every newsletter from November 2005 (when I was
"found") has been copied. If I ever retire from being a volunteer in the
local elementary school, condo president and active grandmother, I will
reread every issue. We certainly are well represented all over the world.
I enjoy looking through the 1956 and 1957 Conestoga, and am sad when you
mention the passing of former classmates. My husband Stephan is the
Public Safety Director (police and fire chief) of Daytona Beach Shores,
Florida If anyone comes to this area during Bike Week and/or
Biketoberfest, Speed Week, or any other time, please stop and say hello.
Please note my new e-mail address: sandidbshores@cfl.rr.com. Thank you
again for all your efforts. Sandi
Viivi Saarna (Class of 1958): Hi Jim, how did you find me? Of all the
days for my computer (modem) to die! I locked one of my cats in the
office (while feeding the others) before taking him to the vet’s for a
tooth extraction. He demolished the office and caused a shelf to fall
down—apparently on the monitor. I’m looking for another monitor to plug
in. Barring that, I’ll take it to my computer guy Thursday (he’s going
camping for the next couple of days). My e-mail is:
denvervivi@netscape.com (notice only one “i”). My telephone is:
303-934-1963. My address is: 2625 South Green Court, Denver, Colorado
80219. I’d be delighted to hear from my classmates. Do any of them live
in the Western States beside you and the one in Texas? Have you located
Judy Nelson? She and I were close in high school but I haven’t been in
touch with her since. Didn’t know that Tom Flom became Chief of Police in
North Miami. My friend, Betty Mason Flaum, and I have kept in touch and
she lived in North Miami Beach and Biscayne Park before moving to Panama
City a month ago. She never told me. I’ve lived in Denver since 1981.
Before that I lived in San Maeto (Northern) California. I left Miami in
1969, although I made trips back there. One of my sisters (Class of 1960
or 1961) still lives in Southwest Miami but the other one moved to
Murphy, North Carolina several years ago. For 20 years I worked as a
legal secretary for Denver Juvenile Court Probation. I’m retired,
divorced and own my own home. Please feel free to give out all of my
addresses and telephone number. I’m not insecure about receiving mail or
telephone calls. This is really a milestone and you’re performing a
valuable service! I’m thrilled! Go Pioneers! Perhaps that’s why I moved
west. (Note: Viivi gave me contact information on Roxie Kalkaeuth and
Betty Mason)
Tony Santos (Class of 1958): Hi Jim: In the English teachers list, you
have Ms. Mary Niles—probably the best English teacher on the planet
(along with Vivian Hicks). Her name is Mary Elizabeth Niles; and a few
years after we graduated, she re-married, and she became Mary Elizabeth
Niles Rutherford. She was tough on me, but she sure helped me learn how
to write coherently and correctly. No easy task for someone who did not
speak English first (Spanish father, Italian mother). When I became a
working journalist, and then a television producer/director (before
teaching), I would always remember the red ink on my papers,
which--thankfully--became less and less as time went on. She sure saved
me!! Do you know if she still lives in Florida? I truly hope she hasn't
left us. She used to tell us about her children (Wendy and Jed Niles). If
you hear (or know) something of her whereabouts let us know. It would be
nice to know all went well for her and her family. Take care, and thanks.
Tony
Sandi Schwattz (Class of 1957): Hi, Jim I'd like to receive the
newsletter as well as find old friends. Have you run into the name,
George Harris, Class of '57 I believe? I was Class of 1957. Thanks for
your hard work. Sandi Flanary (My maiden name was Sandy Schwartz). P.S.
Did you ever know Jeanne Harris? She was George's half sister, aka Jeanne
Heims. I saw a "Jean" Heims and e-mailed her. No answer so far. Some of
my friends were, Jo Mule (pronounced Mulay), Judy Federico, Donna
Rakestraw. Ricky and Donna Swartz, my cousins, attended also. (Note: I
sent her contact information on Jean Heims, Donna Rackstraw and Josephine
Mule).
Kathy Shellahamer (Class of 1958): Hi there ! Well first of all Jim, my
husband Charles is 2 yrs younger than I. He is still working, well for a
year and 3 months anyways. We are counting the days. Charles is not a
Pioneer but I love him anyways. Now I am really curious, any ideas on the
date and where for the Big 50? I really need to know way ahead to plan
our sweaky budget. I have never been to one of our reunions and it really
irks me. Would love to meet you and family and all the others I hope to
remember. Age sure changes a body and mind. I do seem to remember more
folks as I read your wonderful newsletters. God has really blessed you
with a gift of communication. Do keep up the great work. When visiting my
father recently (passing of his wife) my one nephew and his wife are
researching our ancestors and I thought of you and all have done.
Unfortunately I did not keep your tips. But she (Clarice) sure was
thorough with her questions with my Dad. I learned some things. I`m just
not patient to do that. We all have our talents. mine is crafts and such.
Did you send me that info on all our most accomplished Pioneers? I still
have not seen it. Hope all is well for you and yours. God Bless, Kathy
Peg Sigelbaum (Class of 1958): Dear Jim, Received your interesting letter
this week and yes you have the right person. I am still stumped about
how you found me. Perhaps you can fill me in, as I have only lived in
Canton for 11 years. I too was one of the fortunate ones to leave
Florida. I was married in 1962 and have lived in Virginia, Illinois,
Arkansas, and Georgia. I have 2 daughters and am still married to the
same wonderful man after 44 years. We have one grandson, almost 7. To
begin with, yes I would like to receive your news letters. You may give
out my email address as you see fit. Please withhold my postal address,
pending my permission. I was surprised to hear all of the news that you
reported in your letter about many of our classmates and teachers. If you
have the information, I would like to get in contact with the following
classmates of mine via email or snail mail. I am interested in locating
Melanie Hausmann, Mona Lowenthal and Harriet Schwartz from the Class of
1958. Also I would like any information about Susan Fabrikant and Bobbie
Singer from the Class of 1959. It was exciting to hear from you and I
look forward to getting more news in the future. It is wonderful that you
have taken on this time consuming project and I salute you for doing so.
Peggy Sigelbaum Schwartz (I prefer to go by the name of Peg Schwartz)
Marilyn Stevens (Class of 1958): Hi Jim, Marilyn does not have an email
address. She is a widow of Olice Arthur, not sure if he went to NMH or
not. She lives in Naples. Not sure how many children, I think 3,
several grandchildren. All of us were out of touch for about 40 yrs. Then
I got on the internet and found the girls that I grew up with and got
them all together. Her address is: Marilyn Stevens Arthur, 5203 Maple
Lane, Naples, Florida 33962. She grew up in Opa Locka with the rest of
us. Graduated from Hialeah High. She is very good friends with me, Alta
Whipple, Louise Boughner Lauderdale, Bernice Bildner, who graduated from
NMHS, Nancy Smith Bundy, Marietta Pilliod Harris. She married Joe Harris
who also graduated from NMSH in 1955, along with my brother. We all
graduated from Hialeah, but went to NMH in Junior High. We all got
together in August 2004, at our Hialeah reunion. We were able to talk
Bernice into coming. She does not go out often. She lives alone in Fort
Lauderdale, Florida. We all had our picture taken together at the
reunion. Seven of us girls from Opa Locka. We went to Opa Locka
Elementary School together also. Janet Armstrong
Sam Thomas (Class of 1958): Dear Jim: My e-mail address is
smec1@earthlink.net. Sorry that the e-mail was deleted, I do the same
thing at times. Basically, what I recall writing is that when I finished
at NMHS, I went to the University of Miami, worked part-time finished in
five years - working in the Dade County Court system, for a radio
company, working on a boat in and out of the Bahamas, and then going to
seminary in Evanston, Illinois for three years when I finished my BA. I
was in Churches in Lakeland, and Port Saint Lucie, FL then went back to
Miami to finish a doctorate in Psychology; working on a Masters while
serving the churches. I spent three years at the U-M a second time,
finishing my Ph. D. in 1975. I worked in South Miami in Churches for a
few months, then 19 months in Clewiston, returning to Miami and working
four years in alcoholism-substance abuse. In 1979 I got free of all ties
and commitments, (my job was being phased out, I had a marriage come to
an end) and decided to do something in a French milieu - having begun
French at NMHS and taking three years in high school, then sliding
through in college - and wound up in Northern Quebec, a community called
"Val-d'Or" for twelve years. A great time and a very fascinating
experience. I also started a private practice in psychology, doing
forensics (I put a lot of people in jail in those days) and also did
hypnosis in a second language- also very exciting. I returned to the U.
S. in 1994 - and worked a few months as the Clinical Director of a
church-related institution, then came back to Florida, serving Churches
in Fort Lauderdale and returning to Clewiston in 2000. I have started
drawing retirement but plan to stay around for a few more years - then
seeking to retire in a location where my blood pressure won't change with
each election. You may circulate my e-mail address. You have my home
address on file and I will look forward to receiving your various e-mails
and other information Thank you for getting in touch once more - best
wishes in your work to track everyone down - is anything for the fiftieth
anniversary in the offing? Kindest regards: The Rev'd Samuel S. Thomas,
Ph. D. (Note: I thought that either I or my grandson deleted his original
message so I asked Sam to send it to me again because I found it very
interesting. Later I found the original e-mail so I have included both of
them). The original e-mail: I don't remember many of the faces that go
with the names in your letter that was mailed August 3rd - you tracked me
down! It was not too long ago that I opened the yearbook for NMHS when
another alumnus, John H. Zimmerman, came to visit me. He was not known to
me at NMHS - went to college with my brother (now deceased) and it was
through my brother that we became friends -found out we shared lots of
common memories and interests, including Stuart Darrow whom I had for
geometry and later for physics. I graduated - went to the University of
Miami - fell on my face - lost my scholarship and girlfriend on the same
day (that was a bad day) went to work and went to the University at
night, got my grades up, went back to day school and the old girlfriend
decided I wasn't so bad after all - started thinking about the priesthood
- majored in English and pieced together a degree - working part-time or
full-time and going to school all of the time. Broke up with the
girlfriend and survived. Finished at U-M in June, 1963 - entered
seminary in Evanston (Seabury-Western Theological Seminary) got ordained
Deacon in June, 1966 and Priest in January 1967 - was in Lakeland from
1966 to 1969 - and married a nurse. We moved to Fort Pierce - and I
finished the Master's degree I started in Lakeland at the University of
South Florida - a Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton. Left Fort
Pierce in 1972 and back to U-M for work on my doctorate - full time - Ph.
D. in Counseling Psychology - and spent a short time at a parish in South
Miami-Westchester - then to Clewiston for 2 years - back to Miami in 1977
and worked full-time in alcoholism while working in Churches - marriage
ended - and I was free of ties and commitments - alcoholism was phasing
out - and asked myself "what in the world do I want to do (literally)".
Europe was a bit intimidating but French Canada was within the realm of
possibilities - and I accepted a parish in northern Quebec - loved it,
and still do. While there started a private practice in forensic
psychology - was really swamped with work - and having a great time - the
longer I stayed the more involved I got - built a French congregation
that was struck by an arsonist - and decided to think about my next steps
- while visiting in France learned that the Dean of the Cathedral was
leaving Paris - and I remember saying to myself "I want that job!" -
wound up in Kansas instead! Came back to Florida after 6 months there -
took a parish in Fort Lauderdale and then back to Clewiston - they
forgave me and took me back - have begun receiving retirement and will
stay on for awhile, then will move where there are less likelihoods for
my blood pressure to change with each election - I'm searching, but have
hopes. It was good to hear from you - my best wishes with your project
to re-unite all of the alumni from our era at NMHS - you may circulate my
e-mail address - and give everyone my regards - we're coming up on a 50th
year class reunion- are there any plans in the works?- I attended the
20th class reunion held on Key Biscayne one weekend - and it's a great
memory. Thank you for the update and I'll look forward to receiving your
e-mails - a generous gesture on your part. The last e-mail: Dear Jim,
Congratulations on excellent pieces of work. I appreciated your
forwarding them to me (July, August, Sept issues of your newsletter).
While finishing up in Miami, and before going to Canada, I was briefly
serving a Church in the Westchester area of Miami and working on an old
Hallicrafters police radio that was given to me. I've been a ham since
NMHS days - Stuart Darrow was an encouragement - and got it working one
evening. Listening to the police calls - I heard a call about a "stabbing
at 800 N.E. 137th Street" and something told me that I knew that address.
I pictured the area and then it dawned on me that it was NHMS. I was
somewhat taken aback - nothing like that would have been thought of when
we were there - and I wondered what happened to the school that this kind
of thing would have occurred. I recall we had our first loss of a student
while I was there due to an auto accident, perhaps someone got pushed
into the senior pool - a gift to the school from a senior class - but
nobody was quite that violent in the 1950's. When I moved back to Miami
in 1975, we used to go up to Mama Jenny's and "pig out" on Italian food -
and I'd go by to see the additions and changes - fencing and more
buildings. Two of my NMHS classmates that kept in touch a short time
after I graduated were John (Anthony) Donovan and Richard Dallinger. The
three of us all started at the University of Miami - and all washed out -
John joined the Army for six years - he wanted to get away -and he was in
Hawaii but was taking college courses to catch up. I shared in Richard
Dallinger's wedding to "Sherry" - and he was working for the telephone
company - I believe he went to California - I saw John Donovan once as I
was getting ready to go to Seminary - and I believe Richard served in
Viet Nam - some of the others I would see in passing from time to time
if they were in the Miami area - losing contact with many of them. Do you
know of John Donovan or Richard Dallinger? Are they on your mailing
lists? Were there any updates received from them? I sent you a short
"bio" and if you want more info, don't hesitate to get in touch.
Cordially, Sam
Rose Villalba (Class of 1958): Dear Jim, I was so happy to receive your
letter today and although I've just traveled 400 miles today, had to
write you immediately while it was fresh on my mind. I went to NM since
7th grade when it opened up as Edward L. Constance Junior Senior High
School. So many of the names you mentioned, I knew well. I actually was
on the committee planning our 25th reunion and several others when I
lived in Miami. I graduated from Barry University (College, then) and
taught Spanish, English and Latin for many years in Dade and Broward
County. My last 15 years in school, I was a crisis counselor at Miramar
High School and lastly at Stoneman Douglas High in Parkland, Florida. I
was voted Teacher of the Year twice at my last two schools. I had the
privilege of working with some wonderful people, including a few years at
North Miami High with fellow pioneer, Irv Betrock. I was hired by Ida
Meyers who was assistant principal at the time. I took maternity leaves
and ended up with 4 beautiful children. I married Bill Dery in 1963 and
have been blessed with an incredible spouse. He was an Administrator at
Broward Community College for 28 years. We just returned tonight from
Pensacola, Florida where we Baptized our 11th grandchild. Yes, 11 ranging
in age from 15 to 5 weeks, and we're so blessed. Two of our children
graduated from Florida State University and two from University of South
Florida in Tampa. Among them are two master's degrees, a teacher and a
professional structural engineer. We retired to the mountains in Georgia
in 1998 and live in our log home in the forest. We love it up here and
have not returned to South Florida in a while. We live in the highest
community in Georgia, Suches. We walk to the general store and post
office daily with friends, also transplants from Miami. As a matter of
fact, we live in a cove that the locals call, "Little Florida". I know
of another pioneer here, her husband was President of a division of
Florida Power and Light. She graduated in 1956, I believe. My husband
Bill and I have traveled extensively in Europe and the Middle East. We
love traveling and plan to continue as long as we're healthy, which right
now we are blessed with great health. Two of our daughters live in
Alpharetta, Georgia, about 1 hour south of us, so we visit them often and
their 5 children. We have a son in Jacksonville, Florida with 4 children
and our daughter in Pensacola, with 2 sons so we actually travel 7 hours
to Jax and 7 hours to Pensacola. Lately that has been our travels along
with an occasional trip to Michigan to see my husband's family. Besides
hiking, gardening, hosting dinner parties, I also am running a
Bereavement Group at a local church. Soon I also will be teaching English
to non-speakers of English at our church in Dahlonega, Georgia. Am
interested in knowing if any pioneers live in the mountains in Georgia,
specifically around Dahlonega, Blairsville, or other parts of North
Georgia and North Carolina. I correspond with Lorraine Winge (Webster)
and Sandy Kline. Went to college with pioneers Dale Comstock (Duffy),
Renate Williams, Barbara Millett (Bedard). Do you have any information on
Lucy Van Dyke and Florita Wise? Hope I haven't bored you too much, but am
so appreciative that you spend so much time and effort in doing this
newsletter. Is there someway we can contribute to your costs of postage,
etc? Please let me know. Again thank you so much for your efforts.
Gratefully, Rose (Note: This should have been published in September but
I overlooked it in my 500 e-mail messages that I hadn’t cleared from my
computer yet-See death information of Florida Wise in an earlier section
of this issue)
Pat Welch (Class of 1958): Dear Jim, I HAVE the North Miami Highlights
record you spoke of in the newsletter!! Was going to throw it out when I
moved as I didn't have a 45rpm turntable, but saved it for sentimental
reasons. Thanks again, for helping us "relive" the good ole days through
your wonderful newsletter! Patricia
Cora Jane Willingham (Class of 1955): Cora Jane Willingham Reichert has
moved again. She is now living at 4101 Dogwood Lane, Fort Worth, Texas
76137 H: 682-597-5669. Her e-mail address is the same: rbcora@yahoo.com.
She say that things are much better living in Texas and she is very happy
and would love to hear from her Pioneer friends.
Carolyn Wood (Class of 1955): Hi Jim, I always enjoy reading your
newsletter. Ray Glaze lives here in Kissimmee, Florida so I called him
and he said they have changed their computer system and have not got
around to letting everybody know. His new e-mail is: tommi1128@aol.com.
Charles Bee lives in Orlando and I will see if I can get his e-mail
address for you also. Thanks for keeping everyone in touch, you do a
great job. Carolyn (Note: I found out that Charles Bee does not have
e-mail at this time.)
Pat Zahn (Class of 1958): Have found Mary Kenny ..She found me through
the white pages on line. Amazing. Last month we talked I will give her
you e mail and give you hers. Will send another email...Have to find the
info. Can’t believe my 3 favorite girlfriends, have been located. Judy
Hainkley, Sandy Lovette and Mary Kenny...We three need a reunion. Thank
you for helping with these. It is so appreciated. Love your Newsletters.
How you take time for all the writing I will never know.......It's is fun
to read. After a while you're back in time more than here....Patraicia
(Note: She gave me her new home address and telephone number. I will give
out on request only. I’m still waiting for information on Mary Kenny)
Trip Down Memory Lane:
For a great trip down memory land check out "The Vermont County Store"
and see the many great products of yesteryear. The site is:
www.vermontcountrystore.com. It's just like going back into an old
country store in the 1950's in New England and doing your shopping. Many
of the products I remember from my own childhood while a few others were
things that my wife and I brought for our children as they were growing
up in the 1960’s. Best of all they are all for sale if you want to bring
back alive the memory of growing up. A few of the items I have seen in
stores over the last few years but most I haven't seen or heard of in
years.
Candy: Banana Split Candies, Bit-O-Honey Bars, Chicken Bones,
Chocolate-Dipped Jelly Sticks (cherry, orange, raspberry), Dubble Bubble
Gum, Fruit Slices, Guittard's Chocolate Nonpareils, Ice Cubes Chocolates,
Jelly Nougats, Kits, Licorice Pipes, Licorice Wheels, Liquorice Allsorts,
Mary Jane, Merrimints (pastel mints), Necco Wafers, Old-Fashioned Peanut
Candy, Old-Fashioned Ribbon Candy, Original Barley Pops, Original Butter
Mints, Original Licorice Snaps, Bar, Sundaes Neapolitan Coconuts, Toasted
Coconut Marshmallows, Walnettos
Cleaning Items: Borax, Cotton mops, Feemster Slicer, Fels-Naptha Soap
(mom's used for cleaning), Mrs. Stewart’s Liquid Bluing, Silverfish Paks
Clothing and Accessories: Chiffon Scarves, Cotton Patio Dress, Expandable
Shower Cap, Grandpa’s Flannel Shirt, Men’s Railroad Vest, Old Fashioned
Bathing Suit, Original Drizzler Jacket (with MacGregor plaid
lining-1950’s), P F Flyer High Tops, Rolfs Men’s Townsman Wallet
(1950’s), Rolfs Women’s French Purse (1915), Rubber Swim Cap, Smock Apron
(like Grandma wore with large pockets)
Food Items: B & M Brown Bread (plain or raisin-in a can-we steamed it),
Charles Chips (in yellow and brown tins-1940’s), Common Crackers (like
oyster crackers), Fizzies Drink Tablets, Habitant French-Canadian Pea
Soup, Heinz Salad Cream Dressing, Horlicks Malted Drinks, Junket, Maypo
Cereal, Mint Julep Candies (1930’s), Moon Pie, My*T*Fine Pudding, No-Bake
Trio Treat Gelatin Dessert Mix (1960's), Pudding Cake Mix, Ralston Hot
Cereal, Scrapple, Spiced Windmill Cookies, Vermont Maple Syrup, Wheatena
Wheat Cereal, Whip n Chill Dessert Mix (1960's)
Holiday Decorations: 3-D Ornaments (1950’s), Angel Candles, Cardboard
Christmas Village, Caroler Candles, Christmas Gumdrop Tree, Clip On
Electrical Candles, Colored Christmas Bubble Lights, Color Wheel
(1960’s), Glass Bird Ornaments, Goose Feather Tree (the first artificial
Christmas tree), Halloween Candles, Old Fashioned Glass Ornaments (blown
glass), Original Bubble Brite Candolier, Original Christmas Snow, Pilgrim
and Turkey Candles, Santa Candles, Shiny Tinsel Christmas Tree (1950’s-a
Florida favorite), Snow Globes (chalet, skier, snowman, tree), Steel
Ornament Hooks (1940’s)
Household Items: Aluminum Ice Trays, Big Ben Alarm Clock (wind-up 1949),
Cast Iron Apple Peeler, Desk Phone Address Flipper, Desk Telephone (500
series-black-1949), Double Boiler, Dry Iron, Drying Rack, Enameled Steel
Bread Box, Feemster Slicer, Fels-Naptha Soap (mom's used for cleaning),
Floursack Dish Towels, Genuine Oilcloth Table Cloths and Linens,
Gilhoolie Jar Opener (opens the tightest lids and caps with ease), Glass
Furniture Coaster, Headboard Lamp, Hot Water Bottle, Ice Bag, Ice Cream
Maker (hand-cranked), Jewel Tone Aluminum Tumblers (1950’s), Newspaper
Log Roller, Old-fashioned Ice Cream Maker, Original Record Player, Old
Time Jelly Glasses, Pants Stretcher, Portable TV Tray Tables, Princess
Telephone (pink and blue-1959), Rug Beater, Tension Pole Lamp, Twister
Jar Opener, Vinyl Bowl Covers, Wall Mounted Pinup Lamp (1950’s), Weather
Haus
Personal Care: Arpegne by Lanvin (1927), Bellodgia Perfume, Boroleum,
Cake Mascara, Chrome Eyelash Curler, Coty's Airspun Loose Powder, Evening
in Paris, Florida Water (men's cologne), French Hair Roll, Hair Net, Hair
Rat, Hair Spoolies, Jade East (men’s-1964), Joy Perfume (1930), Lanvin
Vetyver (perfume-1964), Lifebuoy Soap, Lux Soap, Mason Pearson Hairbrush
(1885), Old Fashion Cap Hair Dryer, Packer's Pine Tar Soap, Pears
Glycerin Soap, Scalp Invigorator, Soap on a Roap (Men), Sweetheart Soap,
Tabu Lipstick, Tangee Color Lipstick, Tangee Foundation Makeup, Tangee
Rouge, Triangle Hair Net (held curlers in place at night), Tweed Parfum
Spray, Wind Song (1960's)
Toys and Games: Alphabet Blocks In Wagon, Bozo Bop Bag, Card Games-
(Crazy Eights, Hearts, Old Maid, Rummy), Chatter Phone Pull-Toy,
Colorforms (1951), Curious George Monkey (1941), Die-Cast Metal World War
II Aircraft, Dr. Duck Pull-Toy (1931), Gumby and Pokey, Lamp Chop Puppet
(1957), Original Lincoln Logs, Paint-By-Number Sets, Park and Shop Game
(1953), Raggedy Ann and Andy Dolls, Slinky, Sock Monkey, Tinkertoys,
Tricky Magnetic Scottie Dogs, Snoop' n Sniff Dog Pull-Toy, Uncle Wiggly
Game (1940’s), View-Master (with pictures), Windup Tin Tractor and Wagon,
Wooden Pick-up Sticks, World War II Paratrooper (throw up in the air and
chute opens on way down)
Personal Note: At least twice a month we had homemade baked beans, hot
dogs and the delicious B & M Brown Bread for our Saturday noon meal. It
came plain or with raisins. We preferred the one with raisins. I haven't
had "brown bread" in over forty years and my wife has never tasted it. My
mother made homemade French-Canadian Habitant Pea Soup a few times every
month. The Habitant French-Canadian Pea Soup is very close to the one
that my mother made. I especially liked looking at the Christmas
decorations. They should bring back a lot of memories of Christmases of
the past. I had forgotten about the colored Christmas bubble lights that
decorated our tree for a few years in the 1950’s and 1960’s.
|
