3/7/2016 - vhs62.com

Monday Update
A weekly newsletter dedicated to those who
remember & celebrate Vallejo as it once was.
Vallejo
Apaches
St. Vincent
Hilltoppers
Hogan
Spartans
St. Patrick/St. Vincent
Bruins
March 7, 2016
“March, in like a lion, and out like a lamb…”
The Monday Update is published weekly, on the
John Bunter Memorial Computer
by Harry Diavatis, who is solely responsible for its content.
Please send correspondence, photographs and archival information to
[email protected]
The Monday Update is posted every Monday on www.VHS62.com
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HH = Hogan HS SV = St. Vincent’s HS SP = St. Patrick’s HS FF = Former Faculty
G = Guest VJC = Vallejo JC SCC = Solano Community College
Year Only (ie: ’60) = Vallejo High School
Hello Classmates, Schoolmates and Friends:
In this edition: Julian Anabo ’52, Les Bates ’58, Carin L. Bell-G, Margaret Cake-Neu ’55, Ron Collins
’60, Gary Cullen SV69, Chet Curtis SV60, Orilda Damian-Concepcion ’58, Howard and MaryAnn (Davis)
Fitzpatrick ’61, Kathleen Driscoll-Ottarson ’61, Butch Dunkle ’64, Paul Henderson '64, Judy Herkins ’70,
Carol Houston-Bickford ’65, Maureen “Mo” Mulroy-Kocourek ’64, Carol Napala-Fischer SV60, Jerry Orr
’61, Cathy Phillips ’62, Marilyn Phillips-Albro ’70, Carmela Piccolo-Coakley ’58, Patty Pierce-Zuniga ’61,
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Suzie Schmutz ’59, Charlie Spooner ’60, Nancy Walsh-Arndorfer ’56, Donna Wiggin-Barth ’58, Paul
Wright ’61, and Lea and Helen Zajac ’52.
Index
This ‘n’ That ............................................................................................................... 2
The Mailbag .............................................................................................................. 20
Apache Review of Arts by John Parks ‘62 ................................................................. 26
A Cup of Joe by Joe Illing ’61 .................................................................................... 33
Paperback Writer....................................................................................................... 37
Postcard Pals ............................................................................................................ 41
This Week’s Newbies ................................................................................................ 43
In Memoriam ............................................................................................................. 43
The Last Word ........................................................................................................... 47
MU Calendar of Upcoming Events ............................................................................ 48
Public Service Announcements (PSA) ...................................................................... 49
Addendums ............................................................................................................... 52
The Fine Print ............................................................................................................ 60
This ‘n’ That
Here’s the updated info on the VHS Apaches
Alumni Day which will be held on April 29.
The event WILL NOT be held on the Vallejo High
campus, AND it will NOT BE held on the campus
of the California State Maritime either. After hours of negotiation with
CSUM they still wanted to charge us $1,000 for parking on top of the
Auditorium rental costs and the Committee wasn’t going for it.
It was decided, after considerable discussion and investigation, that
the most satisfactory, cost effective venue was the American Legion
Veteran’s Hall located at 420 Admiral Callaghan Lane in Vallejo.
There’s plenty of in close parking and they have the space to
accommodate us. They can also provide beer and wine for those who
are so inclined.
The notification letter follows and also an RSVP form that is to be
returned. For those with email, this is the only notification you will get.
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For those for whom we have no email address, we are sending out
“snail mail” notification later this week, to let them know.
The Vallejo High School Apaches Alumni Day
At the American Legion Vets Hall - 420 Adm. Callaghan Lane - Vallejo
Friday, April 29, 2016
Onward Apaches
Fight, fight, fight
9:00 a.m. Registration (Coffee & Pastries)
Apaches Alumni Band
10 a.m.
Alumni Meeting Comes to Order
Noon
Optional Lunch catered by City Lights
They’ve purloined our school symbol, but they can’t take
our Apache Spirit and Pride away from us! Come join your
friends and classmates for the Annual Vallejo High School
Apaches Alumni Day.
Apaches Alumni Day
Committee
Harry Diavatis ’62 (Chair)
Dalt Williams ’51
Ed Sowash ’55
Carol Alarid-Weber ‘56
Bruce Christianson ’57
Carmella Piccolo-Coakley ’58
Tiny Trujillo-Tosh ’60
Paul Wright ’61
Loretta Smith-McCracken ’62
Gail Greig-Boblitt ’62
Pamela Diggs-Pitts ‘62
Carol Egidio-Murray ’63
Guy Arrostuto ’65
Gloria Pontarolo-Taft ’66
Russ Taft ’76
Elle Fernandez ’98
SPONSORSHIP
Of course, as in any event, there are
certain inherent costs: postage, printing,
facilities rental, refreshments, decorations, etc. The Alumni Day costs will be
paid out of sponsorship donations and
we’ve already made a good start as many Apache from the VHS Yearbook
of you have already donated to the cause. The Senior Souvenir of 1936
Sponsors will be listed in the Monday
Update as well as the Alumni Day program.
OPTIONAL LUNCH
Following the meeting, a buffet lunch will be catered by City Lights.
In order to participate in the lunch, which is optional, you must
make payment in advance. The cost per person is $20 (if paid by
April 16) or $25 if paid after that date.
RSVP
Please fill out the card below and return it no later than April 23.
We look forward to seeing you all at the VHS Apaches Alumni Day.
For additional info/questions
please contact me at harrydiavatis
@aol.com or at (707) 333-5793.
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PLEASE PRINT OUT THIS REGISTRATION FORM AND RETURN IT TO ME
Vallejo High School Apaches Alumni Day Luncheon
Friday, April 29, 2016 at 11:45 a.m.
Veterans Hall – 420 Adm. Callaghan Lane - Vallejo
Name :___________________________ High School:________________
Year Grad_______
(Include Maiden name if applicable)
Guest’s Name:_____________________ High School:________________
Year Grad_______
YES I plan to attend Alumni Day  SORRY can’t make it this year (Keep me on the list )
 I’d like to be listed as a sponsor in the program. Enclosed is my donation for $_________

YES. I’d like to participate in the optional City Lights catered luncheon.
# of people: ______ at $20 per person = $_________
**$25 after April 16
TOTAL ENCLOSED: $___________
Make Checks payable to:
Harry Diavatis
5087 Green Meadow Court
Fairfield, CA 94534
We are asking all, who plan on attending, to please print, fill out and
return this form so that we can prepare the name tags and give City
Lights a count at least a week in advance, if you want to join us for
lunch (and I hope you do) you will need to fill out and return the
Registration card with your payment.
Our Monday Update readers have been very supportive and generous
with their donations which will be used to defray the cost of the event.
I’m pleased to say that sponsorships continue to come in. It’s these
sponsorships which will allow us to put on this event at no cost to the
attending alumni (unless they opt to eat lunch with us.)
Sponsors names will be printed in the MU and also in the program
which will be handed out at the event. A donation can be made in your
own name or, if you choose, as a gift In Memory of a friend, classmate,
teacher or administrator.
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Please make out the check to me, and mail it to:
Harry Diavatis
5087 Green Meadow Court
Fairfield, CA 94534
It will be kept in a separate account and used strictly for Alumni Day.
Any leftover funds will be saved for next year’s Alumni Day.
From: Patty Pierce-Zuniga ‘61
Thank you for sending this message to me. I am excited about seeing so many of my
classmates and friends. I’ll get the Registration Form back to you ASAP. Thank you,
From: Howard and MaryAnn (Davis) Fitzpatrick ‘61
I really enjoyed the column by Jim Manner. We went through apprenticeships together at
Mare Island and have had contact over the years. We even had the opportunity to enjoy
meeting for a meal at the Turtle Bay Hilton on Hawaii’s north shore on one occasion.
I am sad that the Alumni Day won’t be at the school. It won’t be quite the same.
Unfortunately, with MaryAnn’s health issues, we will not be there, but my amazing math
skills tell me that the average donation is about $30 so we will have a check to you today
for that amount. We hope everyone has a great gathering.
I agree with you Howard, it is “sad” that the event will not be held on
the campus of Vallejo High School, but I think it’s time to face the
reality that the current Administration and School Board doesn’t hold
their Alumni in very high esteem. That is very puzzling to me because if
I was in a position of authority with the District I would develop a
strong relationship with the alumni and have them as allies and a
valuable asset. There are so many ways we alums could help our
schools, but they are too mired down with their own problems to see
that. How many years has Alumni Day been going on? Twenty?
Twenty-five? Wouldn’t you think by now they would have included it in
their Master Calendar so it doesn’t come up as a big surprise each
year? If you were to call Vallejo High today and inquire about Alumni
Day, they wouldn’t have a clue.
I think it’s important that we alums continue to enjoy each other’s
company and get together to celebrate those by-gone days. We grew
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up at a time when there were only two high schools in Vallejo: St.
Vincent’s and Vallejo High. There was occasional “animosity” but by
and large, we were all friends and grew up together. This is an
opportunity to share some time with people you knew or had heard of
during your formative years. I’m looking forward to seeing old friends
and making new ones. I think that we should continue to get together
and maybe someday the School District will figure out that they are
missing out on a great “partnership.”
From: Judy Herkins ‘70
Sending my contribution for Alumni Day. I understand your reasoning for not having it at
VHS but I think we would annoy them more if we did. The Administrators are not from
Vallejo so they don’t have the same feeling walking on our campus. The Main Building is
gone but there is something about walking by the “Senior Lawn” and seeing other familiar
buildings. I’m sure they disliked having to adjust schedules and other changes to
accommodate us. They are probably glad we are moving on.
As a proud member of the Class of 1970 I’m looking forward to Alumni Day 2016… see
you then.
From: Margaret Cake-Neu ‘55
I’m pleased to contribute to the Alumni Day Fund. My donation is in memory of my friend
Elinor Erickson-Irwin ’57. Our families were friends and we all miss her vibrant personality and beautiful smile.
From: Jerry Orr ‘61
Hey Harry!
I know I said “I wash my hands of VHS and Alumni Day”, but now it’s changed ‘cuz my
$$$s won’t be going to the school for their use!!
I am re-washing my hands! Here’s a check… count me in.
Jer… I’ll bet you have the cleanest hands in town.
From: Orilda Damian-Concepcion ‘58
Here is a check for the Alumni Assoc. in memory of Anthony V. Tasca, my homeroom
teacher all through junior high and he gave me my first babysitting job when I arrived
from Guam. He and his family treated me like family. Thank you Mr. Tasca, RIP.
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From: Maureen “Mo” Mulroy-Kocourek ‘64
Thanks for organizing the VHS Apaches Alumni Day. I’m really looking forward to
attending. I’ve marked it on my calendar and would like to be included in the lunch
portion.
From: Cathy Phillips ‘62
Here’s my donation towards Alumni Day. I’m hoping to talk my sister Marilyn Albro into
going to Alumni Day activities on April 29.
Thank you, Harry for all you do to keep all of us connected and renew old friendships.
Hope that there will be a large turnout for alumni day.
Well, Cathy, judging from the next letter I think Marilyn will show up.
From: Marilyn Phillips-Albro ‘70
Here’s a check to help with cost of VHS Alumni Day. Looking forward to the gathering.
My husband Rick and I both graduated from VHS in 1970.
Thank you for organizing this and all the other events you share in the weekly Update
Please give Sally my best and let her know my sister, Cathy Phillips and I will be getting
in touch with her for lunch again soon.
From: Julian Anabo ‘52
Just got the word of Alumni Day April 29th, with lunch at CMA, April 29th, mailing a check
for $15 lunch plus support for the cause. Our VHS 1952 Class Reunion is being held at
Holiday Inn Express, American Canyon, April 28 through 30th, most of us will be there, if
not all of the expected 40 to 60 members attendance. Thanks for all the work, whether of
not we are Apaches, but I also believe Redskins will finally change their name,
Sorry, Julian, and everyone else, but the Reunion Committee made a “Uturn”. We are no longer considering CMA as a venue due to the added
expense of $1000 for parking. Instead we’ve selected the American
Legion Veterans Hall on 420 Adm. Callaghan Lane. Also, lunch will be
catered by City Lights at a cost of $20 per person. There is no charge
to attend the Apaches Alumni Day unless you plan on staying for lunch.
Donations continue to come in daily. Here’s a list of Sponsors through
3/6/16. If you want to be a sponsor of Apaches Alumni Day, it’s not too
late to participate.
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Donor
Dalt Williams '51
Carolyn Schneider-Bourgerie '61
John Morrison '60
Ron Beckmeyer '62
Margaret Walsh-McCandless SV53
Jim SV49 & Dolores (Celli) Walsh '53
John Walsh SV51
Roger Wilson '61
Richard Silveira '64
Scarlett Asher-Thompson '57/Drew Asher '62
David Scola '65
Don '48 & Madelyn (Hieb) Nunn '48
Guy Kilburn '62
Carolyn Hewitt-Brown '60
Suzie Schmutz '59
Jack Kelly '60
Jesse Jimenez '65
Ed '57 & Sandra (Cimino) Cruz '59
Diann Hewitt-Welbourne '57
Barbara Lowe-Louie '64
Paul Wright '61
Bruce Christensen '57
Carol Egidio-Murray '63
Lorretta Smith-McCracken '62
Gloria Pontarolo-Taft '66
Carmela Piccolo-Coakley '58
Guy Arrostuto '65
Joe Illing '61
Paul Henderson '64
Jane Barlow '60
Jane Strunk- Draper '61
Glenn Savoy '62
James Manner '61
Ed Giblin ‘53
Steve Bleamel '62
Cheryl Bonner '62
Barbara Giant--Fromm '56
Cathy Warn-Preovolos '68
Gaeil Greig-Boblitt '62
Gayle Emerton-Rodriguez '62
Robert Shallenberger '65
Howard & Mary Ann (Davis) Fitzpatrick
Orilda Damian-Concepcion '58
Cathy Giant-Azevdeo '55
In Memory of
Norman Schneider '47
Fran Walsh SV55
Buddy Murray '62
Buddy Murray '62
Ernie Simons
Osgood Hilton, Faculty
Tony Tasca, Faculty
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Sharon Kent-Harris '62
Jerry Orr '61
Rusty McManus '66
Margaret Cake-Neu '55
Dan & Claudia Kaiser '63
Rochelle Berry-Wilson '59
John & Ann Lammon '62
Anonymous M
Mike '56 & Ilene (Zundel) Campas '60
John Parks '62
Harry Diavatis '62
Tom O'Donnell '70
Richard '70 & Marilyn (Phillips) Albro '70
Cathy Phillips '62
James Rookwood '60
Maureen "Mo" Mulroy-Kocourek '64
Kathryne Rich SV64
Gail Speckel-Barker '57
Judy Herkins '70
Sandy Caldwell-Garton '62
Elinor Erickson-Irwin '57
Chuck Lamoree '63
Bill Wilson '55
Roberta Zachary-Johnson '62
A big thank you to our generous readers.
...
The Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame
Saturday’s Hall of Fame drew a record number of people, in part, due to
the induction of Super Bowl Champ C. J. Anderson. The GVRD placed
Anderson last in the presentations so that people would hang around,
and it worked. It’s always good
to see and visit with old friends
and the HOF really seems to
bring out the old time athletes
and coaches.
Fred Kerstad SV63, Phil Kukuruza SV63,
Molly Post-Petrie ‘61 and hubby Larry ‘60.
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I was pleased and honored to meet C.J.
Anderson’s grandma, Barbara Gaddies, who
was instrumental in helping raise C.J. and
keeping him focused.
Oh, my! Who could this be? Why it’s my
very favorite adversary Hazel Wilson.
I told her not to get too used to her School
Board seat because she isn’t going to be
occupying it for very long.
Hall of Fame football coach
Jack Renfro ‘50 with Mike
Wilson ‘69, who was his assistant for many years, before
taking over the program. The
lovely lady on the right is a
very dear friend, Mary Faucett,
who is the widow of famed VHS
basketball coach Fred Faucett.
Does anyone recognize what’s wrong with this
picture of Hall of Famer Dave Plump ‘61? It just
doesn’t look right without him standing next to his
old friend Frank Mixon. Sigh…
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These are two of the
late great Dave
Beronio’s sons,
Barry SP and David.
My ’62 classmates Ron Scrivner
and Joe Rasler with Joe’s lovely
wife Carolyn (Smith) HH64 in the
middle.
(L-R) Lynn PetersAncheta HH64, Pete
Ancheta HH63, Skeeter
Thorpe ‘63 and Angie
Thorpe.
My friend and classmate
Anita “Niece” SmithNorwood ‘62 has known
C.J. Anderson for most of
his life, so I asked her to
introduce me to Vallejo’s
newest star.
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Bobby Reynolds ‘66 and
Hank McGraw SV61.
Mike Rollins
SV66
Donna Graham-Scrivner HH64
showing off her true colors.
Russ Sturgeon ‘59
Mike Kollar SV59 and
Dottie Barker-Kollar ’59
paying rapt attention.
Following a splendid rendition of the
National Anthem by Tori Langfitt, the
evening’s host Steve Mortara SV got us started.
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Inductees
The first to be inducted was Jodi Tennyson-Smith
HH80 who was a three year starter in softball and
basketball at Hogan High and went on to excel at
Solano College winning Conference honors.
Mark Cameron ‘54 was an outstanding football,
basketball and baseball player at Vallejo High. He
went on to play at Vallejo J.C. and then Fresno
State where he was the team MVP in 1958 as he led
the team in hitting. He played professionally for a
year with the Fresno Giants.
In 1993 Cameron was inducted into the Fresno
State Baseball Hall of Fame and the Solano College
Sports Hall of Fame in 2005.
Kevin Tolliver ‘84 starred for the Apaches from1982-84 at running back
and defensive back. He was also a track star running the 200 and 400.
He was the MEL champ in those events in 1082. Following graduation
he attended the University of Nevada, Reno where he played football
Gatlin “Jerry” Howell ‘54 played football for Vallejo
High in 1952 and 1953, and was also on the Apaches
track team and was recognized as one of the best
half-milers in Northern California. He helped the
Apaches in capturing the 1953 and 1954 NBL Track
and Field Championships.
Following graduation, Howell enlisted in the United
States Marine Corps and would serve for two years.
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Upon returning back to civilian life,
Howell attended San Jose State and
while studying to become a teacher, he
also ran the half-mile on the Spartans
track team.
In 1965 he reenlisted in the Marine
Corps, went to Officer’s Training School
and was sent to Vietnam where he was
killed in action on July 7, 1967. He was
awarded posthumously the Navy
Cross (our nation’s second highest
decoration) for gallantry in action. Lt. Howell is among the deceased
Vietnam era veterans remembered in the Living Tree Memorial Park at
Vallejo High School.
Ed Kraft accepting the award on behalf of
Jerry Howell with a Marine Honor Escort
Byron Craighead SV64 played football and also
baseball on the St. Vincent High team that won
the 1964 Diablo Valley East Bay Division Baseball Championship, but his true calling of being a
standout trainer came a few years later.
“One day a trainer asked me to help out at Santa
Rosa J.C. I ended up working there for 37
years.”
Byron was
the trainer for
the Oakland Raiders from 1971-75,
the USA National Wrestling Team in
1995 and ‘98 and three Olympic
Winter Games (2002, 2010, 2014).
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The Vallejo High School 1958 golf team was one of
the most dominant in school history. Vallejo won
the NBL Championship that year with a 9-0-1
record.
Les Bates ‘58 accepting the Award
on behalf of the ’58 Golf Team.
.
L-R: Bottom Row: Robin Brown, Les Bates, John Morris, Marshall Cain, and Victor Yen. 2nd
Row: Coach Dave Thomas, Dick Allison, Bill Greig, Joe Schultz, Frank Bell, and Paul Schultz
Dan King ’62 was an outstanding point
guard on outstanding basketball teams
at Vallejo High, Vallejo J.C. and then at
Chico State. He had given up baseball in
high school to concentrate on basketball
Dan on the right is shown
15 ‘56
with Bobby Mansfireld
but was asked by Coach Stan McWilliams at Vallejo JC to join the team.
He did and he was a starter on a team that went to the State
Championships. Dan coached Napa’s Vintage
High School Girl’s basketball from 1984-2004
before moving to the East Coast. Dan came
all the way out from his home in North
Carolina to accept the award. Sadly, seeing
Dan made me think about four of his
basketball teammates who are no longer with
us: Frank Mixon ‘61, Jerry Causey ‘62, Tobias
Hawkins ‘63 and Don Odale ’62.
Dr. Roger Petrie’s (HH82) induction proved to
be a bittersweet moment as Roger entered
the Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame posthumously
Roger died unexpectedly a year ago.
Roger was a star athlete at Hogan High and
was named the All-City Quarterback and
represented Hogan in the East-West Football
Classic. He went on to be a backup quarterback at UCLA where he played in (and won)
three bowl games including the Rose Bowl
his senior year. He was very active in the
community and also most generous providing
services to all the area athletes.
Accepting the award was
Roger’swife Debbie and son
Nicholas
Bobby Brooks HH94 excelled in football, basketball
and track for the Spartans and was named to the All
MEL team as a senior. Following graduation from
Fresno State, he signed as a free agent with the
Oakland Raiders, played for them for 2 years and
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then was picked up by the Jacksonville Jaguars for a year. He then
played in Germany where he was named to the All NFL Europe All-Star
team. He gave what was probably the most emotional speech of the
evening and broke down while thanking his mom and dad. He said “All I
wanted to do was to make you proud.” Bobby, I do believe you
succeeded in that endeavor.
Rich Osterkamp ’68 was a three year starter for the Apaches where he
was All-City, All NBL, All Redwood Empire, All North Coast, All Northern
California, and All State. He played in the North/South All Star Football
game and was named an All-American by Scholastic Magazine. He was
the second Apache to ever be selected as an All American, the first
being the legendary Dick Bass. He
was also a great wrester in the heavyweight division and won the NBL
Championship in 1965, 66, and ’67. He
went on to play for the University of
Oregon where he won the Outstanding
Lineman award in 1971.
Rich Osterkamp on the right is pictured
with Hall of Famer Rusty McManus ‘66
Mike Wilson ‘69 was an outstanding football and track
athlete for the Apaches before going on to Langston
where he qualified for the NAIA championships in track.
Upon graduation he returned to Vallejo where he was an
assistant coach in both football and track before taking
over as head coach in both sports. In track, Wilson won
23 league championships, 14 San Joaquin Section
Championships and a CIF State Championship in 1999.
While no longer the football coach he continues to serve the Apaches
as Head Track Coach and Athletic Director.
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The highlight of the evening was the
induction of 2009 Bethel High graduate
C. J. Anderson who is fresh off of winning
Super Bowl 50 as the starting running
back for the Denver Broncos.
At Bethel, Anderson played quarterback
during his sophomore and junior years,
but switched to running back his senior
season when he ran for 1,623 yards and
23 touchdowns and became the TimesHerald’s Male Athlete of the Year for the
second consecutive year.
He then played at Laney College where he was an All-American before
transferring to Cal where he had 1,135 yards rushing on 198 carries
while scoring 12 touchdowns on the ground.
He was undrafted but also undeterred as he persevered and eventually
was signed by the Denver Broncos in 2013. In the 2016 C.J. stepped up
and gained 90 yards against the vaunted Carolina Panthers defense
and scored the game clinching touchdown.
It was a fun evening, although, a trifle long, as usual, but it’s always
good to spend time with friends. I enjoyed seeing my classmate Dan
King again and I was really pleased that he was honored by the HOF.
He was certainly deserving. I spent most of the evening sitting with my
old pal Phil Kukuruza SV63 and we had a chance to get caught up. Phil
said I should give a “shout out” to Barbara Lowe-Louie ‘64 who is an
avid supporter of the Monday Update. He said that Barbara has a
beautiful granddaughter named Gracie… Hey Barb! We need pics.
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...
This building at Mare Island Naval Shipyard was abandoned and
flooding has since created an amazing mirror effect.
Contributed by Donna Wiggin-Barth ‘58
Members of the St. Vincent’s/St. Pat’s class of 1976 are in the planning
stages for a Forty Year Reunion this year. If you have any input or
questions please contact them via either of these two email addresses.
[email protected]
[email protected]
There is no "me" in team.
No, wait, yes there is!
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The Mail Bag
From: Gary Cullen SV69
Harry ~ Last night I attended the annual Vallejo Executive
Lion’s Club Crab Feed along with other classmates from
our SV Class of '69. Six years ago, our class created
the Dan Donahue ~ SV Class of '69 Community Service
Award to honor Dan's belief and participation in serving
ihis community. It was his wish that we reward a deserving
student annually in his name to honor their service to the
community. Thus, due to the generosity of his classmates and friends over the last six
years, the award has grown significantly.
I want to give special thanks to Jack Anthony and the Vallejo’ Executive Lion’s Club who
have generously given a portion of their proceeds every year from the crab feed to this
scholarship.
L-R: Seated: Kevin
Traylor, Mike St. Pierre
(SV68) & John Souza.
Standing: Gary Cullen,
Andy Jacques, Bob
Tombolini, and Kathy
Lemke,
Jack SV69 and
Cathy Anthony '69
The name “Anthony” is synonymous with the Lion’s
Club and of service to the community. I was a friend
of Marge and Jack Anthony Sr., (May God rest his
20
soul) and they were great people who truly cared about the community.
I’m glad to see that Jack Jr. is carrying on in the family tradition.
...
From: Chet Curtis SV60
Ti kanis Harry! It was great reading about Norm Schneider in this morning’s MU. Thank
you.
Norm was our JV football coach and boxing coach at Saints when we were sophomores
and juniors. He was a great guy and truly cared about each of us. He also taught general
science classes at Saints. I had two classes he taught and learned a lot from him. . If I
remember correctly he left for VHS in our Senior year.(‘59-60 seasons)
A group of us ate lunch together every day in a lunch room on the ground floor of
Memorial Gym. Norm would always be in the area and joined us as we talked about
sports ... whatever sport was in season at the time. He was a solid mentor and role
model. We all liked him a great deal.
Thanks again for the time and energy you invest each week in publishing the MU. It is
greatly appreciated.
All the best! Christos Anesti!
Thanks, Chet for your Greek Easter greetings, but ,just so you know,
you souldn’t use that greeting (Christ has risen) until after Greek Easter
which is May 1. But I understand the sentiment. LOL.
...
From: Nancy Walsh-Arndorfer ‘56
I don't think I can make it to the book signing but I really want this book. Can I contact
the author directly? I asked about it at Barnes and Noble and they hadn't heard of it. I
would prefer not to go on line to Amazon
I remember the big balloons flying over the town. And the black out curtains, and no fires
in the fireplaces at night. My dad managed the Bank of America at the top of the lower
block of Georgia Street. The day the War ended My Mom took me down to the bank. It
was crazy down there. My dad put me on the counter in front of the window and I could
look out at the sailors and the "Rosy the Riveters." Everyone was running around getting
drunk and the confetti and serpentine was flying. I was probably nine years old but I can
still see that scene in my mind..
21
I also remember the night that Port Chicago exploded. The next door neighbor was
crying thinking that it was an air raid. Everyone was out in front.
The Country was really united then.
Nancy, Gary Cullen says that in addition to Amazon, the book is also
available at the Vallejo Naval Museum and the Mare island Museum in
their gift shops. He hopes to add other retailers in the future. You can
also contact Gary directly [email protected].
...
From: Carol Houston-Bickford ‘65
Harry, While I was visiting the west coast, Cooky Longo was nice enough to arrange a
lunch on the Sacramento River with 7 classmates from VHS65.
L-R:Carol HoustonBickford, Gayle FerrierMartin, Diane ClapshawHelm & Peggy MillesonStemmler.
L-R: Gail Morgan-Barrett, Cooky Longo
& Barbara Blotzer-Brown.
It was great to see my friends.
Carol, I know that you’ve been all
over the world and done and seen
more than most… but there are no
friends like the ones we grew up
with, are there.
...
22
From: Charlie Spooner ‘60
Hi, Harry - My new book has been released (see the
cover shot attached). The title is Yeah, What Else? It is a
collection of essays, memoirs, poems, and reviews, most
of which appeared in the Monday Update. In fact, Harry
Diavatis and the MU are cited in the Introduction and the
Acknowledgements, as well as on the back cover. The
book is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and
other retailers, and the e-reader version is just ninety-nine
cents. Such a deal!
Thank you, Harry, for all your help and encouragement.
Charlie, I can’t tell you how pleased I am for
you… and for all the other writers who
contribute (or have contributed) to the MU.
When I have a bit more time I want to make a
compilation of all the books written by
Vallejoans throughout the years, but I’ll probably need a little
assistance with it. Off the top of my head, I know that the following
have published at least one or more books: Ed Rollins; Tug McGraw;
Linda Etheridge-Rich; Gary Cullen; Sharon McGriff-Payne; and now Mr.
Spooner Esq.
...
Coach Tanner’s “Boys” Speak Out
From: Paul Henderson '64
Although I knew his passing was imminent, I was saddened when I read it. Coach
Tanner was more than just our coach and had a positive impact on our lives. I think back
to our practices and how he made us run and run to get the team in shape. Obviously he
was a great coach to win over 500 games but he taught us life values during our high
school years. I am very proud to have been a member of his first varsity baseball team
1963.
From: Butch Dunkle ‘64
I was saddened to hear of Coach Norm Tanner's passing. I had the pleasure of playing
for him both in High School, and American Legion baseball. I admired and respected him
for many reasons. He brought out the best in us with positive motivation, encouragement, and thorough preparation. Detail oriented and a competitive nature, which he
23
delivered with passion and youthful energy. His devotion to family, faith, and friends,
embodied all the characteristics of a role model to us all.
My sincere sympathies to his wife and entire family.
...
Vallejo High Class of 1952 Get-Together
From: Lea and Helen Zajac ‘52
The Vallejo High Class of 1952 is ready to party again with a three day event:
April 28, on Thursday evening. a hosted Pizza Party. Elaine Oertel Marks will
present a continuous Photo Show of Do You Remember When? Peter Leveque
will present photos and a talk of his greatest adventures of climbing some of the
World’s Mountains
April 29, Friday will give classmates an opportunity to participate in the new Alumni
Day – details are provided in this "Monday Update".
On Friday evening a catered buffet dinner and dancing Friday evening’s dinner will
include Salmon, Chicken and Ham with all the trimmings. Entertainment will be
presented by DJ, Jammin’ With Gary, who will play some of those good old songs
to encourage dancing.
April 30, on Sunday will be a comfortable three hour tour on the Napa River.
Classes of 1951 and 1953 are also invited to join us!
If you want further details, please contact Lea Zajac, at 707-644-7565 or email
[email protected].
Helen, what a great weekend you guys have planned. A short Missing
List for the Class of ’52 can be found in Addendum Two: Missing
Classmates of this MU.
...
From: Paul Wright ‘61
We are in the initial stages of planning our 55th reunion, could you “PLEASE” add the
attached list of our missing classmates to the MU. I know that many classmates stay in
24
touch with others, so maybe someone in your vast circulation may know the whereabouts
of someone on the list. As usual, a big “THANK YOU” from the older group.
With due respect to my “elders” you can find the ’61 Missing List in
Addendum Two: Missing Classmates. Let’s see if we can help out
these older folks.
...
From: Carol Napala-Fischer SV60
Hi Harry! It is so weird that I received your Alumni Day mailing, but haven't ever received
your weekly newsletter since signing up months ago. I see your newsletter sometimes
when my classmates forward it to me.
Carol, I checked out my Constant Contact site and it shows that you
have been sent every MU but have never opened one. I spoke with
Constant Contact a few minutes ago and apparently the problem is with
your gmail account. Gmail thinks it’s doing you a favor by sorting all of
your mail. So here is what you should do and you might find a whole
bunch of MUs.
Open your in box for gmail and at the top, look for the
promotion tab. Click on that and see what it's hiding from
you. Also check your Junk or Spam folder.
Response from Carol:
Hey, Harry! Guess what I just found?! (with the help of my daughter, too) Oops, guess
my technical illiteracy is showing. Thank you so much for setting me straight.
I am sooooooooooo pleased, Carol. But now you have two years of
reading to catch up on. LOL
A couple was attending their family reunion. At the banquet, everybody
wanted to know how they managed to stay married so long . The husband
responded “When we were first married we came to an agreement. I would
make all the major decisions and my wife would make all the minor decisions.
And in 60 years of marriage we’ve never needed to make a major decision.”
25
The Apache Review of Arts
.... Art: “gifts from the other side”.
By John Parks
JIMMY MANNER ---- Thank you for that neat summary of our
old neighborhood! As you requested, I'll add some names:
Leonora (Laurie) Cooper; Rosalind and Carolyn Henry; Nancy Rolf; Scott Piller; Denny
Syar; Janet Viera; Rick Sproule; the Martin family (Don, Mary, Susie); and Tom Weber.
Also, Ginger Fitts would sometimes show up, visiting her older sister who lived there. We
had some great fun playing softball at the intersection of Valle Vista and El Camino Real!
IN THE MIDST OF OLD VALLEJO” ---- Wondering
if there is monument / sculpture anywhere in the
world similar to this one. It could be used as a
Vallejo “logo”.
”ON CLOUD NINE” ---- The source of the
expression, “to be on cloud 9”, is a pharmacist in
England, Luke Howard, who, in 1803, identified ten
basic cloud types and gave them names. The plumpest and most cushiony-looking
clouds, the “cumulonimbus”, was number nine.
THIS IS GREEN VALLEY FALLS. ---- "Back in the day”
access was open to the public.
WITH CUBA SO MUCH IN THE NEWS THESE DAYS ---- I
decided to share with you here the full album of the first LP
my parents ever bought, in 1956. They would be amazed
how it's now available on the internet for listening at ones
leisure.
CUBAN MOONLIGHT ---https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhz54bRzhEQ&list=
PLgxe6hj6At0apXOc51_o5a8iOLd5Juz9V
The second song is my favorite. The Stanley Black
orchestra was based, not in Cuba, but in ENGLAND. Go
figure.
26
WESTERN MEADOWLARK ---- I first
saw and heard one in an open field (right
where the Babe Palotta home was later
built) on Rincon Way. I was “enthralled”
by its song!
by Vallejo's Doris Sharrock, bird photographer extraordinaire
SKIING OR SNOWBOARDING ALLOWS YOU TO ACTUALLY LOOK FORWARD TO
WINTER! ---- The spring I learned to ski I turned 23. I feel fortunate now to be able to
help my grandchildren learn to ski as little kids, the ideal
time to start learning any skill. Last year I went with
Jenni's and Jill's families for a day trip to “White Tail”.
This year we went on a two-day trip to “Wintergreen” up
in the Blue Ridge range. On the way we stopped in
Charlottesville where the old downtown main street has
been converted into a pedestrian outdoor mall. We had a
nice brunch there at
this old eatery.
Afterward we browsed a toy store across the way
which is owned by a Hungarian woman. Her
merchandise is interesting because most of it
comes from companies in Europe that do not
market in the USA. Then we stopped in at this
Cooperative, owned and managed by the artists in
various mediums whose works are sold there.
Jill's twins sit on a sculptured sofa at this store.
Their mom bought a nice pottery piece there.
As mothers and fathers soon learn, children usually
27
take instruction from a third party better than from them, so a “ski school” works best for
most kids – and allows the parents to enjoy
schussing the slopes on their own.
Here's Poppy, who turned three in December, in
her class. Note they're all wearing helmets.
And here are all the parents!
“HOME AND GARDEN SHOW” ---- Ever been to one? I went along with a friend
expecting to see lots of gardening stuff but was disappointed. (People wanting to shop
for WINDOWS would NOT have been disappointed.) However, we met a muralist,
Armen Kankanian, originally from Armenia. He had
some paintings on display, as well as photos of his
murals in high-end homes, that were very impressive.
Here's an example.
A COTTAGE IN OXFORDSHIRE ---- I stole these two
images off Facebook.
28
Adjoining was a Roman road in the
days of Brittania, but now it's just this
country lane -- with a stile for access to
a public footpath.
PICTURE THIS OVERHEAD ---- and
imagine.
SONG OF THE WEEK ---- When was the last time you
saw Chaka Kahn, Etta James, and Gladys Knight sing
with B.B. King? See and hear them right here! “Ain't
Nobody Business”!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoBlmp9cOL4
SPEAKING OF SKIING, HOW
ABOUT SKI JUMPING? ---- This is
a movie that I recommend. It's a
remarkable story based on real
events and is very well done.
I think you'll like it.
SPRING TRAINING HAS STARTED ---- so it's not too soon to think about the upcoming
baseball season. Brer Cris could recite this poem from memory.
29
Casey At The Bat
by Ernest L. Thayer
The outlook wasn't brilliant for the Mudville nine that day,
The score stood four to two, with but one inning more to play.
And then when Cooney died at first, and Barrows did the same,
A pall-like silence fell upon the patrons of the game.
A straggling few got up to go in deep despair.
The rest clung to that hope which springs eternal in the human breast.
They thought, "if only Casey could but get a whack at that.
We'd put up even money now, with Casey at the bat."
But Flynn preceded Casey, as did also Jimmy Blake;
and the former was a hoodoo, while the latter was a cake.
So upon that stricken multitude, grim melancholy sat;
for there seemed but little chance of Casey getting to the bat.
But Flynn let drive a single, to the wonderment of all.
And Blake, the much despised, tore the cover off the ball.
And when the dust had lifted, and men saw what had occurred,
there was Jimmy safe at second and Flynn a-hugging third.
Then from five thousand throats and more there rose a lusty yell;
it rumbled through the valley, it rattled in the dell;
it pounded through on the mountain and recoiled upon the flat;
for Casey, mighty Casey, was advancing to the bat.
There was ease in Casey's manner as he stepped into his place,
there was pride in Casey's bearing and a smile lit Casey's face.
And when, responding to the cheers, he lightly doffed his hat,
no stranger in the crowd could doubt t'was Casey at the bat.
Ten thousand eyes were on him as he rubbed his hands with dirt.
Five thousand tongues applauded when he wiped them on his shirt.
Then, while the writhing pitcher ground the ball into his hip,
30
defiance flashed in Casey's eye, a sneer curled Casey's lip.
And now the leather-covered sphere came hurtling through the air,
and Casey stood a-watching it in haughty grandeur there.
Close by the sturdy batsman the ball unheeded sped -"That ain't my style," said Casey. "Strike one!" the umpire said.
From the benches, black with people, there went up a muffled roar,
like the beating of the storm waves on a stern and distant shore.
"Kill him! Kill the umpire!" shouted someone on the stand,
and it's likely they'd have killed him had not Casey raised his hand.
With a smile of Christian charity, great Casey's visage shone,
he stilled the rising tumult, he bade the game go on.
He signaled to the pitcher, and once more the dun sphere flew,
but Casey still ignored it, and the umpire said, "Strike two!"
"Fraud!" cried the maddened thousands, and echo answered "Fraud!"
But one scornful look from Casey and the audience was awed.
They saw his face grow stern and cold, they saw his muscles strain,
and they knew that Casey wouldn't let that ball go by again.
The sneer has fled from Casey's lip, the teeth are clenched in hate.
He pounds, with cruel violence, his bat upon the plate.
And now the pitcher holds the ball, and now he lets it go,
and now the air is shattered by the force of Casey's blow.
Oh, somewhere in this favored land the sun is shining bright.
The band is playing somewhere, and somewhere hearts are light.
And, somewhere men are laughing, and little children shout,
but there is no joy in Mudville -mighty Casey has struck out.
31
LONG LIVE THE “PEACE SIGN GESTURE”! ---- I
watched son-in-law Jim create this on the side of the
family refrigerator.
LONG LIVE MR. RELICS! ---- Made from items I just
found while out metal-detecting.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE RACE ---- to be
the Republican nominee for President? (Please
don't answer that question.) Here's what I think.
It's an idea advocated by William F. Buckley, (the
most humorous commentator / host I've ever
watched). On every ballot for every election in
the land there will be a choice titled “None of The
Above”. If it gets the most votes a new election is required with none of the candidates
on the previous ballot being eligible to run again. Don't you think we'd ultimately get
better candidates, better elected officials, and better government? I do.
Peace, brother!
John
[email protected]
...
Republicans & Democrats are like divorced parents who care more about
getting the kids to hate the other one than they are their well-being.
32
A
By Joe Illing ‘61
How I Won The Cold War, Part 17 … SERGEANT PETERSON BUILDS A BAR AND
SGT. MURPHY GOES AWOL
CAUTION!
German’s at Play!
hen Germans start drinking … watch out!
You never know when they might start singing a
song about their hat that has three corners. Or,
start dancing in circles (in a very loose interprettation of a Polka) while boisterously singing nonsense lyrics like “Humba
Humba Humba!”
W
And watch out for fun ’cause there’s plenty of that too! It’s of a good natured variety, and
can go on for quite interminable lengths. It takes a most accomplished drinker to keep up
with them!
Sergeant Peterson could not only keep up with, but even surpass some of the most
experienced of German drinkers … and start all over again the very next day! Of course
his liver begged for a rest, but unfortunately Pete wouldn’t listen … he just loved to
socialize! And you never knew what his gregarious propensities might stir up. Once it
even stirred up our own private bar!
Our benefactor,
the King of Koblenz beers
33
A chance meeting with the head of the Königsbacher brewery in Koblenz resulted in
a scheme to supply and construct a bar for us. It was an offer Pete just couldn’t refuse!
Of course we were just a handful of GIs, but opening a bar inside Boelcke Kaserne…
well that made all the difference!
Pete, never one to analyze an opportunity so long as to miss it, jumped on the deal. After
all, we had a vacant room upstairs plenty big enough for a bar, and an adjoining, mostly
unused, crypto (top secret) room that could hold enough beer for weeks … and of course
he had to take into consideration our esprit de corps! The guys would love it! And boy oh
boy did we ever!
When finished, our bar was, quite simply, perfect! In our minds it ranked right up there
with the Long Bar at Raffles in Singapore, or Harry’s Bar in Venice, or any watering
hole anywhere for that matter. And it was OURS, ALL OURS!
A drink or two after work …
a lovely place a beer or two (that’s
the legendary, contemplative
Sparky on the far right)
It had a proper bar complete with sink and running water
and a hundred or so Königsbacher beer glasses. The bar itself could seat a dozen or so
on its padded, leather bar stools, and the scattered small tables (with linen table cloths)
could accommodate another twenty or more quite comfortably.
We also had games like shuffleboard and fussball, and a large, secure locker for
whiskey, vodka, gin and the like. Large dormer windows let in plenty of light in during the
day, and provided vistas of the city at night.
We also had a spacious private movie theater across the hall playing five new Hollywood
feature films a week … and that was before video tapes, DVDs and the like. Oh, and
there was ping pong too.
I guess life always has its privileged few. Of course it also has its wheel of fortune that’s
constantly turning. Nobody alive really has to be told that, but sometimes it’s good to
reflect on it, especially when that wheel has spun you to its crest. After all, you’ve got to
assume it’ll keep on spinning, in which case you’ve nowhere to go but down.
But for the moment in Koblenz, we were riding high … and we knew it! We kept our
bar immaculately clean! Every morning a work detail scrubbed it, making it look like
the first class place we all wanted it to be. Why we even went to great lengths to
actually frame the Playboy Playmates displayed on its walls!
34
I guess that esprit de corps thing was working!
Come on in!
Grab a beer!
Make youself at home!
Like so much else, the bar presented another opportunity for
me in my constant fight against boredom during work hours …
which instantly promoted me to bar manager (it helped that
nobody else wanted the job).
And so with enthusiasm, vigor and a complete lack of knowledge, I invented a system
of accounting unique in the world of bar management … an honor system. Non-hosted
guests paid for their booze by giving cash to one of us residents, who then put the cash
along with a tally of the drinks consumed into a cash box.
Detachment soldiers or weekend guests (e.g. the Brits from Berlin … more about that
later), simply kept a running tally of their beers or drinks on a steno pad laying on the bar.
They settled-up at the end of their weekend, or at the end of each month when I’d collect
balances due, pay the brewery and leave the “profit” in a drawer in my desk.
Not age or sex discrimination
allowed in our bar!
Of course I knew even less about accounting (especially of
double entry systems) than about running a bar … so I just
keep running totals of individual accounts, making corrections
or reconciliation adjustments as the need arose.
Granted it represented an extremely loose, unorthodox way of running a bar, but it
worked. We never had a dispute about the bar or its books … and we kept accumulating profits, a situation that required a creative solution … so I figured I’d spend it on us!
I’d give each departing detachment member an attractive, tasteful, bespoke German beer
stein decorated with their name, date of service, Koblenz logo, German eagle, and
a naked lady who glowed iridescently through the bottom of the stein when it was
emptied (the area around Koblenz had world renowned clay and stein manufacturers,
one of whom I contracted with to make these beautiful, porcelain steins for us).
35
Of course they’d also get a traditional, personally engraved Zippo cigarette lighter … and,
as if that weren’t enough, I’d throw a grand farewell party in their honor!
The drinks for these parties were special orders. In that I did all the ordering and would
get on different jags from time to time, the booze at the parties could vary greatly. For
example, take Sgt. Murphy’s departure. Sure it was a debacle, but it was surely the most
enjoyable debacle of them all! It was the perfect storm!
Sgt. Murphy’s party was
just getting good when
Murphy (right) disappeared!
I was on a champagne kick at the time, and Murphy, upon
whom champagne had mysterious and perplexing effects, was leaving for Vietnam.
Sgt. Murphy had more friends than a dog has fleas, so consequently his party was a
monster, a real monster! I ordered scores of cases of Sekt (German sparkling wine),
which, when mixed with beer proved an explosive concoction for our party’s “champagne
sensitive” honoree!
As he’d married a Koblenz girl plenty of strangers attended (i.e. Mrs. Sgt. Murphy’s
friends and family), along with dozens of his Bundeswehr colleagues!
Everything was going swimmingly well, until, about halfway through the party we
discovered Sgt. Murphy had disappeared. Actually, it was Mrs. Sgt. Murphy who first
noticed his absence, but nevertheless, when we heard he’d gone missing, we knew it
had to be due to champagne!
We went on full alert! We discovered he was last seen speeding out of the kaserne in
his VW for places unknown. We sent search parties to likely downtown bars and hangouts, but no Murphy could be found.
It started to get late, and still no Murphy. Mrs. Sgt. Murphy was frenzied, furious and
really pissed off! Sgt. Peterson had gone home. All the search parties had returned
empty handed (naturally after for a few obligatory beers).
We’d hit a dead end, but we kept partying nonetheless,
confident we’d soon get a break in our missing persons
case.
The Rhein Maiden who resides
at the bottom of my one-of-a-kind stein!
36
Finally we received the phone call. It was from a dance hall about ten miles up the Mosel
River. Seems they had an unruly, partying American soldier on their hands! Ah ha!
Murphy! We jumped in our vehicles and headed up the Mosel, mach schnell. Sure
enough, it was Murphy, happy as hooker when the fleet’s in, dancing, singing and having
the time of his life!
Naturally, we didn’t want to ruin our good buddy’s good time, especially since he was
headed for the jungles of Southeast Asia! So we joined in! And so did the hundred or so
patrons!
What could have been a disaster soon turned into one hell of a night thanks to the magic
of champaign! By the time we left the proprietor had completely flipped from plaintiff
To participant and had the band play various patriotic American hits, like This Land Is
Your Land, The Battle of New Orleans, California Girls and the like.
After that unforgettable night, we never saw or heard of Sgt. Murphy again … I guess
that’s the army way. Oh, and Mrs. Sgt. Murphy? She never came near the kaserne or
spoke to any of us again, which we all found somewhat rude. After all, we’d given
the Murphy’s a party the like of which I’m sure they never had again!
——————–
Coming next! How I Won The Cold War, Part 18 … ALERT! ALERT! THE
COLONEL’S COMING TO BUST PETE!
...
Okay, Readers, send in that little short story, essay, poem, remembrance or whatever, you always thought deserved
to be published and we’ll use it in Paperback Writer..
“Dear Sir or Madam, will you read my book?
It took me years to write, will you take a look?”
Paperback Writer
The Beauty
The beauty about love is that it unites. Ask any of our classmates about love, if we could
go back in time, and they would say something like "...aw, don't get serious," or "...it's
called 'like,' you tell someone you like them, not love them." Remember all the lukewarm
responses, if in fact the subject of love was broached?
I recently talked with a childhood friend of my family. Seven days ago she had her 98th
birthday. That's, "give or take" less than three decades older than we are. I told her I
loved her, she said the same.
37
In China years ago, finishing a tour of the Li River, we went into the city of Guilin where
many live in apartments who come down to socialize during the setting sun. Often,
families do cooking together on the sidewalk and there are many children who play
among themselves. There was an Internet café at the bottom floor, and my wife and
friends entered. Chinese children continued playing, one carrying an infant, probably
from another family. Calling out to them to get their attention, they came forward
surrounding me in a circle. I took the hand of one, then another child's hand and began
singing a song. We all took hands and began to walk in a circle with me beginning the
song "...row-row-row your boat." They mimicked as best they could. We raised and
lowered our arms at my direction while singing and walking around in a circle. Then
when Gina came out of the Internetcafé she just watched. When it was time to go, I
waved and said "I love you, I love you," over and over again. As we waved our final
goodbye, all the children were saying as best they could in English "I woove youI woove you!" And they waved. To me, it was the most meaningful part of our visit, and
the most remembered.
…Ron Collins
To Compel
What has Downton Abbey done
to make me this way
other than say
rather have a small Castle
be my own servant
ride a small horse
Wouldn't it be better to see ourselves
through the eyes of others
than a fancy charade
while looking the other way
slight of hand?
To compel good looks of others
wouldn't it be better in a small castle
away from myself?
Wouldn't it be better
end of a fancy charade
no idle hands
just merriment to field
a knowing heart to yield
…Ron Collins ‘60
38
...
Reflections of a Boomer
by Chris Warnshuis
CHAPTER 5
o there I was, sitting in my 6 grade classroom and watching the comings and
goings of the delivery guys outside, checking the clock, wondering what was in the
boxes being delivered, checking the clock again, hoping the 3:00 bell would ring
before she’d be able to fit in a homework assignment…when suddenly I hear my
name being called and realize it wasn’t the first time. “…what is so interesting out
that window?” I had to catch my breath, I was unable to react, I was mortified. Such are
the seemingly major moments that one is sure will have a huge effect on one’s development, moments that could overtake or even negate the early layers of one’s reality. I had
my share of embarrassments, and while many of them were probably not even noticed
by anyone but me, they helped forge my skills of self-protection for emotional survival.
S
th
That second stage of life, the early adolescent period, was by far the least enjoyable for
me. I felt I was the butt of the Great One’s next practical joke: puberty. For some this is
merely a distraction, but for me and many others, I think, puberty’s arrival marked the
moment when trust and security and carefree thoughts began to give way to frustration
and humiliation and constant concern over what others were thinking about me. Still the
worrying, always the worrying.
I began to think that it would come to shape me, that worry, that fear of the unknown, of
what might happen. It’s like this: Let’s say something bad happens but you haven’t heard
about it yet. Then someone sends you a letter to let you know. Now, until the letter
reaches you, the event has never happened inside your head even though it’s already
taken place. If the mail is late or the letter gets lost, it might be a long time before you get
the bad news. So isn’t it better to never receive the bad news at all? In my case, I know
there are a lot of letters out there just taking their sweet old time to reach me and I’m
always worrying, even before they’re posted.
Crowds can still do that to me. I suspect everyone I don’t know in a crowd to be a danger,
to be some sort of letter carrier. I don’t like the survival instinct of a crowd, the primal pull
toward destroying the weak among us. I don’t even like the word crowd. It’s like something an angry crow would call. Gathering is a much better word and I don’t much mind
being in a gathering. I actually enjoy gatherings. Difference between crowds and
gatherings is the familiarity one has with the participants. I feel safe on my side of the
stadium, with the gathering, but am nervous and anxious on the other side, with the
crowd.
39
Yes, those are difficult years, the middle ones. They may not be as troubling as the angst
of the teen years that follow, but it is generally during the middle years that we first
become aware of our essential aloneness and that we must begin saying goodbye to the
nurturing love of childhood. Heretofore we have had our needs met by others, but there
comes the defining moment when most of us feel, or pretend to feel, the foolishness of
dependence, and we begin to distrust and reject those who make us feel that way. Many
of us rebel as best we can for as long as we think necessary until, years later, we mature,
ripen to an acceptance of our dependency, embrace our need for others. Those who
don’t grow up, who don’t acknowledge their interdependence, usually become serial
killers, or, at the very least, in charge.
Besides the shattered expectation of a worry-free passage through childhood, I also had
to let go of my assumption that life is fair and balanced. The excuse of life’s unfairness
can, however, serve you well in times of falling short or failing due to your own inadequacies. It doesn’t appease, though, when it starts to become apparent that others have
much more than you. I eventually realized that others’ fortune was not necessarily my
misfortune, but it sure was—and is—asking a lot to not envy their success. We all seem
to have varying degrees of envy, don’t you think? Without it, we become boring, complacent with mediocrity. A little envy can do a lot to get one going in life.
Hey, you ever think about being someone else? Think you can change? I don’t mean
pretending you’re a rock star or emulating someone you admire. I mean, do you think it
would be possible to be someone else, or are we already who we were meant to be? I’m
not talking about starting a new diet or reading more Greek philosophy or trying to be a
better listener. I’m talking about a whole new personality. Not split personality or some
sort of homicidal mental case that hears voices and wants to kill anyone who reminds
him of the bully in the third grade who beat him up and tore his pants and smashed his
lunch and… oh, sorry, I forgot where I was. No, I’m talking about using your brain and all
your accumulated knowledge to guide your emotions into a different direction, a new you.
Can’t do it. Emotions are in control. Emotions don’t understand intellect and intellect
spends most of its time trying to understand the emotions that guide its thoughts. So you
can’t redirect the heartache, can’t dismiss the sadness, hold back the laughter, stifle the
desire, calm the anger, or deny the fear of crowds. We are slaves to our emotions and
they are formed long before we know how to think about them rationally.
Quick, think of what you’re thinking and then figure out how it got there. How do they get
there, those random thoughts? Because we are limited in our capacity to think, thinking is
one of the things that we are limited to know much about because of those thinking
limitations. Let me catch my breath…In other words, there is no way we can comprehend
thinking or even come close to understanding the concept. Has nothing to do with how
much we learn or how much we know. Early man may have even had a better
40
understanding of such things—he knew less about them but they were easier to ponder
without all the clutter we have in our brains now.
Thinking is right up there with the big two, infinity and eternity. They come up often in my
thoughts and I try to think of ways around them, like approaching them without logic,
without coordinating the material, without connecting the mental dots. Still, I cannot
understand them for some reason and I really mean some reason. There is something
whose job it is to stop us from understanding these things, to trap us beneath the weight
of our strained logic or experimental lack of it. There must be a greater sense of logic
than what we are capable of reaching. Should we talk more about this later, let’s
remember to keep our voices low lest they be listening.
Chris’ comments in paragraph three remind me of Schrödinger's cat, a
thought experiment, sometimes described as a paradox.
...
From: Kathleen Driscoll-Ottarson ‘61
Attached are some pictures about the fishing industry here
in Zihuatanejo.
We head for home in just over a week, but sure will miss
"sunny and 86" every day.
Thanks for all that you do, anymore the newsletter is my
only connection with Vallejo and all that it was.
The fishing industry is the heart
of Zihuatanejo, whether it is the
commercial fishing, subsistence
fishing or sport fishing. It's what
pays the bills here in lovely
Zihuatanejo.
I needed Dorado or Mahi Mahi
for a recipe I wanted to make
but I could find none at the fish
stalls in the “Mercado Publico”,
so I decided I would try buying
direct from the fisherman at the
beach. My Spanish is quite limited so I have shied away from shopping at the fishermen’s
41
beach as it is a super busy place with folks buying fish by the bucket or bag load and I
just wanted a couple of fillets. In my very best Spanish I requested dorado and the reply
was the same to everyone I spoke to "no hay dorado, muy dificil" (There is no Dorado,
very difficult.)
I had arrived at Playa Principal at 6 a.m., the
night fishing boats were in with more arriving on
the beach every few minutes, the ice seller was
busy delivering ice,
women selling fruit
drinks, knife seller
hawking wares and
of course the
fishermen and their
wives were selling their fish. Some bought fish by the bucket
load, other by the fillet, house wife and restaurateurs alike. At
the pier it was crowded with folks headed out for a day of
sport fishing trying to find the right boat captain, packing
coolers of drinks and little mystery sandwiches just purchased from the ladies at the head
of the pier. Out on the bay are the net fishermen who seem to be in competition with the
pelicans. All just trying to make ends meet.
We will be returning home to a wet rainy Washington spring soon, after three lovely warm
months in Mexico. Not quite sure I’m ready.
Kathy, what a life you lead! Bravo, Senora.
...
42
This week’s Newbies
From: Carmela Piccolo-Coakley ‘58
Hi Harry,
Michael Coan graduated from St. Patrick's High School in 1992. He is
running for District 2 Solano County Supervisor and would love to be a
receiver of the MONDAY UPDATE. His wife, Mary Jo (D'Errico) SP92
would also love to receive it. Her mother passes her MU on to them every week! She is
Leslie Sherwood D'Errico HH65.
From: Suzie Schmutz ‘59
Harry, I got an e-mail from Marge Trolinder, VHS class of 1967. She would like to be
added to your MU e-mails every week.
The MU also welcomes John Baptista-G, Barbara Gaddies-G, Anita
Smith-Norwood ’62, Barry Beronio SP, Lonnie Jackson-G, and Rich
Osterkamp ’68.
...
In Memoriam
Norman William Tanner, Jr.
April 20, 1934 - February 27, 2016
Norm was born in Los Angeles, Ca. to Opal Martha Boggs Tanner and
Norman William Tanner Sr. He graduated from Bakersfield High School
and Fresno State University in 1959. In 1955 he married Patricia
Lambeth who is the love of his life.
He has always had an enormous passion for baseball. You could easily
find him outside throwing a baseball against the garage wall if he was
not on the ball field. After playing ball for Fresno State, he signed to play
professional ball for the Chicago White Sox. He was released as a 3rd
baseman from the White Sox and was soon signed to pitch for the Boston Red Sox. He
had always dreamed of becoming a professional ball player and a coach.
In the fall of 1959 he went to Vallejo High School and was the head baseball coach for 33
years. While at Vallejo High School, he also coached football and basketball. He loved
43
each and every one of his players and always wanted the very best for them. He was
inducted into the Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame in 2006 for his 1991 Baseball team.
Norm was very active in his church and community. Norm and Pat have been married for
60 wonderful years. He is survived by Robert (Perri) Tanner, Michael (Lori) Tanner, Sherri
(Lonnie) Vincent, David (Sharon) Tanner, Susan (Wade) Lybbert, Brian (Kristi) Tanner,
and Shalene (Jason) Rich, 36 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He was
preceded in death by Charles Mark Tanner.
Norm passed away at his home on February 27, 2016, from pancreatic cancer. A funeral
service was held on March 5, 2016 at the LDS Church in Nampa, Idaho.
Condolences may be expressed at zeyerfuneralchapel.com.
Legendary Vallejo High School baseball coach
Norman Tanner passes away at 81
By Thomas Gase,
Vallejo Times-Herald
When looking back at Norman Tanner’s life, it’s safe to say it was as successful as a
walk-off grand slam. Unfortunately for Tanner, his family and many friends, that life has
come to an end.
The 81-year-old legendary Vallejo High School baseball coach, with 501 career wins to
his credit, passed away at his home in Idaho from pancreatic cancer. As the news made
the waves around the Vallejo community, many talked fondly about their longtime friend.
“We had the same office at Vallejo for over 30 years,” former Vallejo High athletic director
and head football coach Jack Renfro said. “We sat 10 feet apart and I felt real close to
him and I hope he felt real close to me. He excelled as a person, a colleague and a
coach. He loved his family, loved his church and well, his record coaching speaks for
itself.”
In 1955 Tanner married Patricia Lambeth, and they would stay married for 60 years.
Tanner graduated from Bakersfield High School and then Fresno State University in
1959. He signed on to play professional baseball with the Chicago White Sox and later
the Boston Red Sox farm systems. Still, it was always a dream of his to coach.
In 1959 he came to Vallejo High where he coached football, basketball, track, but mostly
baseball. His first season as head baseball coach was 1963 and immediately he was as
44
big of a hit coaching as the Beatles were on the music charts, guiding the Apaches to an
18-1 record.
His best season may have been nearly 30 years and 500 wins later in 1991 when the
Apaches won a Sac-Joaquin Section championship and produced four players that were
drafted by big league teams out of high school. The 1991 team would later go into the
Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.
However, it’s his life off the field that Abe Hobbs will remember. Hobbs was an assistant
coach with Tanner before he took over the team himself.
“I think Norm would have appreciated the fact that if you took away baseball he was still a
great person,” Hobbs said. “He loved his family and was a great husband and father. He
was a teacher, a mentor and he made a big impact at his church. All the baseball stuff,
like winning 500 games, is great, but I think he would have liked to have been known
more for his stuff off the field. He had a great sense of humor and he loved to tell stories,
including bragging about his family.”
Hobbs said he learned a lot about coaching from Tanner. “I learned to enjoy spending
time with the boys and young men and just enjoy the whole process,” Hobbs said.
Renfro had similar things to say. “He really loved teaching those kids,” Renfro said. “He
looked forward to coming to work. The job wasn’t a burden for him. He certainly knew all
the players and their families and kept in contact with them until they graduated.”
A funeral service were held for Tanner on Saturday, March 5 in Nampa, Idaho.
Condolences may be expressed at zeyerfuneralchapel.com.
If any of his friends and/or former players want to send card or
condolences to the family, here’s the address:
Patricia Tanner
720 North Apricot Place
Nampa, ID 83683
...
From: Les Bates ‘58
Hi Harry:
It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing of Frank Bell Jr. ‘58. I was
informed a week ago today by Mike Ferreira ‘59. Frank had brain cancer and passed
very quickly. He was still practicing Criminal Defense in Redwood City until the end.
45
Frank was a member of the Vallejo High Golf Team of 1958 that is being inducted into
the Vallejo Sports HOF this Sat... he was so looking forward to that. Mike and Frank both
lived in San Mateo Co. and were in touch from time to time.
From: Carin L. Bell-G
I am Frank Bell's oldest daughter. I am sorry to have to let you know that my father
passed away on February 25, after a very short battle with metastatic lung cancer.
I know he was very excited about the Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame event. If you could
please let others know about his passing we would appreciate it.
Frank Bell Jr.
1945 – February 25, 2016
Even though his parents lived in Vallejo,
Frank Bell Jr. was born in San Francisco in
1940. He was raised in Vallejo going to
Roosevelt Elementary from 1945 – 1949
and Highland Elementary from 1949 -1952.
He then attended Vallejo Jr. High and
Vallejo High School graduating in 1958.
After high school he attended the
University of California at Berkeley for a
year before transferring to Vallejo Jr.
College for a year. He then transferred to San Francisco State where he graduated
in 1963 with a degree in Business Administration. While at Vallejo J.C. he was the
Number 2 player on the school’s golf team.
He was accepted to the Hastings College of Law, graudating in 1966 and passed
the California State Bar that same year. He became the Deputy Attorney General
for San Francisco and Sacramento from 1966 to 1069. He was the San Francisco
Chief Assistant Federal Public Defender in 1970 and served in that position
through 1982.
He was appointed as the State Public Defender of the State of California by
Governor George Deukmejian and served in that position from 1984 to 1087. He
has been in private practice as a Criminal Public Defender since 1987 in Redwood
City, CA.
...
46
The Last Word…
This has been a “whirlwind” week, due in most part, to having to deal
with upcoming VHS Apaches Alumni Day. I spent a great deal of time
negotiating with Cal Maritime only to ultimately decide not to go with
them. We have a great Reunion Committee who have been very helpful
in pulling this off. Also our MU readers have been, characteristically,
generous in their support and I truly appreciate that.
...
I got a very nice surprise phone call from my old friend and classmate
Mike Vinatieri ‘62. We spent a long time talking about his best buddy,
Manny Ayala and how bad he felt when he learned that Manny had
passed. We also talked about some of his other pals like Crag and Kent
Parker… but what surprised me (I don’t know if I should even mention
it) is what he had to say about Judy Cloud-Metcalf ’62. Oh, well… if he
told me, knowing that I operate on a sort of journalistic tell all
principle, then I guess I can tell you… Judy is the first girl that Mike
ever slept with. He says that it was a long time ago and his
recollection is pretty dim but, as he recalled, it’s a fond memory of
sliding up next to her in a very cozy cuddling position… he could feel
her warmth, and hear her heart beating, and then just as he was to
make his move… their respective moms came into the nursey and put
pacifiers into their mouths. DAMN, Mommy… I was just getting ready to
make some time. Anyway, they say you never forget your first. Hey
JCM! Was it good for you? LOL
… thanks for starting your Monday with me… hd
...
You know that tingly little feeling you get when you like someone?
That's your common sense leaving your body.
47
If your class is having an event within the next year let us know and we’ll keep it posted on the
Calendar.
MU Calendar of Upcoming Events
Date
Event
Place
St. Vincent’s Class of ’64
Vallejo Naval Museum
April 1, 2016
70th Birthday Party
April 28-30, 2015
VHS Class of 1952 Reunion
Time
11:30 a.m.
Holiday Inn Express (Amer. Cnyn)
TBA
Vallejo High School Apaches Alumni Day
General Assembly
American Legion Veterans Hall
420 Adm. Callaghan Lane
Optional Lunch (advance pymt required)
9:00 a.m.
Noon
Aug. 13, 2016
Aug. 14, 2016
VHS Class of ’76 Forty Year Reunion
Reunion Dinner
TBA
Sunday Get together
TBA
TBA
TBA
Sept. 2016
The 2nd Annual MURP
Noon
April 29, 2016
Sept. 10, 2016
TBA
St. Vincent’s Class of ’61 Fifty Five Year Reunion
Reunion Picnic
Elise Widenmann-Currey Home
Napa
TBA
Combined Hogan ’66 & St. Vincent’s ‘66 Fifty Year Reunion
Sept. 23, 2016
Sept. 24, 2016
Friday Night Cocktail Mixer
Reunion Dinner
Oct. 1, 2016
Reunion Dinner
Zio Fraido’s- Vallejo
Vallejo Naval Museum
TBA
TBA
VHS ‘61 Fifty-five Year Reunion
Double Tree by Hilton
American Canyon
...
48
TBA
Public Service Announcement
May the legacy of the 211th live on.
"The Boys From Boston"
Author ~ Gary Cullen
Now available on Amazon.com
$14.95
Vallejo Times Herald Editor Wyman Riley reported in his
October, 1962 Sunday Notebook column that “there was
probably no community in the United States so affected by
troops stationed within its city.” He was referring to the
deployment of the 211th to the city of Vallejo during World War
II. The famed 211th Coast Artillery Anti-Aircraft Regiment
better known as 'The Boys from Boston', arrived into the city of
Vallejo a few days after the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. Its
job: to protect Mare Island Naval Shipyard and the city of
Vallejo from any further Japanese attacks. They set up their
anti-aircraft cannons on every hill, and 50 caliber machine
guns on city rooftops, and then waited for what, fortunately,
never came.
In the meantime, their good looks, army green uniforms, east coast charm, and
Bostonian accents, captured the hearts of the Vallejo community.
The “Boys From Boston” is a compilation of stories that tell of that time, when 1800
soldiers came to the Vallejo community, and how they were welcomed with open arms at
the onset of the war. After the war, many of the Boys would eventually return to Vallejo to
marry, to raise families, and to start new civilian careers. The author, a native Vallejoan,
and son of one of those "Boys" hopes to share their story in his new book citing
testimony from many Vallejoans who witnessed first hand the life in Vallejo during that
time.
A passage from the book reads: "Virtually all of Vallejo life was dictated by the declaration of war on that infamous day in December. That dictated life style lasted until
peace was declared four years later.
With a quiet calm and a bit of cold anger, the community would quickly start to measure
its needs to prepare for the war. Vallejo was different than other cities in the country at
49
the time, with regards to preparing for war. Vallejo not only experienced an incredible
population growth with the onset of World War II, primarily due to the influx of defense
workers, but also experienced first-hand, the immediate deployment of military defenses
within its boundaries. The war movement was everywhere. The Boys set up their antiaircraft guns throughout the city, along with the spotlights, barrage balloons and sound
detectors."
Local applause for 'The Boys From Boston'...
"The Second World War transformed the city of Vallejo like no other event
in it history. Thousands of men and women, both military and civilian,
flocked to Vallejo to aid in the war effort, but none made a greater impact
than the "Boys from Boston." Gary Cullen's thorough and well-researched
history of the 211th Anti-Aircraft Coast Artillery tells the story of the
important contributions made by these "boys." While they helped defend
our nation, the men of the 211th also made a long-lasting impact on the
community as a whole."
James Kern
Executive Director
The Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum
“Gary Cullen has done a lot of good things with his new book, "The Boys
from Boston." He has related the fascinating World War II story of some
1,800 men in the 211th Anti-aircraft Artillery Unit from Boston, Massachusetts, who at the last minute got orders to guard Vallejo rather than board
transport ships bound for combat zones in the Pacific Theater. Gary has
described how the "Boys from Boston" were welcomed with open arms by
Vallejoans and how, after the war, about 300 of the men in their unit
decided to stay in California or, after going home to the East Coast for
awhile, returned to the West Coast. Many of the men in the unit came
straight back to Vallejo. They married, raised families and contributed in
many significant ways to the town.
Thanks, Gary, for telling this story of such a positive development that
emerged from the chaos of war. Had the trains transporting the "Boys" not
been delayed by railroad track damage in a remote area of Arizona, they
might have made it to those military transport ships and never seen the
town that became their new home.”
Brendan Riley
Vallejo Heritage Society
50
There will be a book signing at
the Vallejo Naval Museum
Saturday, April 16
along with an exhibit of 211th artifacts.
...
It's that time again!
Don't miss your opportunity to participate in this year's
Benicia Classic Car Show
Join us in beautiful downtown Benicia!
Sunday, April 24, 2016
"The Green" at the bottom of First Street - Benicia, CA
On Sunday, April 24, the Benicia Classic Car
Show will bring together classic car owners
and enthusiasts from all over the Bay Area
for a day of fun, music, and competition.
All proceeds go directly to support our
award-winning Benicia High School Panther
Marching Band program.
The event is open to all pre-1976 cars and trucks. Show plaques
will be awarded for numerous categories voted on by other
entrants and our High School Band students. Vendor booths will
sell food, crafts and car related merchandise.
Vehicle check-in starts at 7:00 a.m. with the show starting at 9
a.m. and going until 3 p.m.
Each registrant is entitled to two complimentary breakfasts which
will be served between the hours of 7:30 am and 10 am.
To Register go to: www.BeniciaClassicCarShow.com
51
Early Bird Special Registration
~$30~
(Registration form with payment must be postmarked by Feb. 29, 2016)
~$35~
(Registration form with payment must be postmarked by April 16, 2016
Event day gate registration
~$40~
(We cannot guarantee space will be available if you choose to register same day)
The Panther Band Boosters is an IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation.Tax ID 68-0366686
ADDENDUM ONE:
Reunion and Event Announcements
(Send us your upcoming events and/or reunions and
we’ll post them here every week until your event.)
St. Vincent’s Class of ‘64 !!!
You knew it was eventually going to happen.
You could not wait for it !
So, here it is.
What: Your 70th Birthday Party
Where: Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum, (old Vallejo City Hall) 734 Marin St., Vallejo
When: Friday, April 1, 2016 , 11;30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Includes lunch from City Lights Restaurant on Tennessee St., owned by SV69
grads you may know
Why: Because it’s your 70th birthday, and you need a reason to party
What you need to bring: Your partner, a friend or a designated driver?
Oh, and one more thing: a story (or two) to share with your classmates about an April
Fools joke or stunt you actually saw or experienced (no urban legends).
Cost: A donation of $20 will help defray expenses
52
Food. Music. Vallejo memorabilia. Your friends. And, I guarantee, there will be
surprises, including a celebrity guest appearance, you will talk about for years!
And, that is no April Fools joke.
Additionally, as an option, here is a chance to go back in time! How
would you like to take an "Honored Guest" tour of SPSV High
School? You will be introduced at a school wide rally, and visit
classrooms to recall and reminisce the excitement and fears of
high school, and to have something to share with classmates at the
Birthday party.
When: tentatively scheduled for Monday, March 21, 2016,
8:30 a.m. RSVP to Sam separately.
RSVP on this Evite. by March 1 (Do it now!) http://evite.me/4RTR4YKJnN
Send money to:
Sam Hutkins
2026 Mezes Ave.
Belmont, CA 94002
Questions or doubts? Contact any committee members.
Tony Pearsall [email protected]
707-853-0092
Bernadette Reardon Wilson [email protected]
707-252-7157
Sam Hutkins. [email protected].
Cell 650-504-7169
...
ADDENDUM TWO: Missing Classmates
(Reunion committees: Send me your list if you want it posted here.)
Vallejo High School Class of 1952
Missing List
Please Send Information to Lea Zajac
644-7565 or [email protected].
Helene Cannon Abbott
Jose Abeyta
Joe Aboaf
Modesto Adoptante
Harry Ambler
Tom Armstrong
Owen Charles
Jay Cormier
Kenneth Decker
Bernard Dion
Janet Hams Larson
53
C. H. Heitz
Donna Hilscher
Lenore Huyck Marin
Jenna Luddy Perry
Consuelo Mascarenas Duplessis
Janet Price Lamborn
Sheila Reynolds Golovich
Elaine Sorenson McDonald
Johanna Telgemeier Best
Leslie Van Dine
...
Vallejo High School Class of 1961
Missing List
Please Send Information to Paul Wright
[email protected]
Last
Allen
Anderson
Anderson
Andrews
Baker
Beauchamp
Bell
Bennett
Berry
Beslert
Bien
Black
Blockmon
Branch
Brooks-Irby
Brown
Brrewster
Burden
Busch Briggle
Caldwell
Caretti
Carter
Carter
Clark
Convery
First
Richard L.
Monte
Richard F.
Donald
Kenneth
John
Phillip
Calvin
Elizabeth
Joseph
Jackie
Marvin
Bettie
Thomas
Gail
Katie
Richard
Edward
Joan
Ronald
Chatherine
Alice
Penny
Frank
Marie
Last
King
Landon
Lee
Maas
Martindale St. Clair
Mattioda-Thompson
McCann-Garres
McElory-Gude
McElwain Ekstrand
McKin
McMurphy
McQueen
Metoyer-Bushnell
Minor
Minor
Moore
Morris
Morris-Mount
Morrison
Mullenaux
Musgrove
Nancarrow
Nelson
Newberg
O’Neal
54
First
Rolland
Richard
William
Joyce
Patricia
Lillian
Patricia
Barbara
Judith
John
Grady
Steven
Betty
Charlene
Ellen Ruth
Bruce
Arthur
Lorreta
Carl
Connie
Carol June
Craig
Norman
Connie
Romaine
Cordero
Cornell
Couey
Dalessi
Davis
Davis
Davis-Rogers
Day
Dewsnup-Ross
Dial
Draper
Dussault
Edmondson III
Erwin
Estes
Freeman-Allen
Gallegos
Gibson
Gibson
Goodhue
Gorski
Haney
Harrison-Tabbs
Hawver
Hawver, Jr.
Helmick-Cline
Herron
Hight-Nelson
Hobbs-Richard
Horner
Horton
Howard
Huyck
Jackson
Jefferies
Johansen-Davenport
Johnson
Johnson
Johnson
Johnson
Johnson
Johnson
Jones
Jones
Jones
Kennedy
Cario
Martin
Terry
Gregory
Marlene
Orval
Lillian
Daniel
Cherrye
Jean Mary
Phillip
John
John W.
Bonnie
Ruth
Elaine
Arthur
Jerry
Shirley Yvonne
Lee
Judy
James
Joan
Jack
Jack
Georgia
Alice Hope
Robin
Claudia
Cyril
Hal
Ronald
Michael
Alta
Richard
Cheryl
Alice
Dorothy
Jay Dee
Jerry Lee
Tommie
Victoria
Kenneth
Lena Bell
James Lee
Mary Kathleen
Orton
Parkhurst
Phillips-Alston
Pipkin
Pocquette
Pyle
Randall-Leong
Reynolds
Reynolds-Toney
Rice-Gasbarro
Richards-Bice
Ricks
Roach Lovejoy
Robinson
Roche
Rossi
Rowland Jefferson
Sainsbury
Sauer
Severson
Sexton
Sharper
Simmons
Smith
Smith
Smith
Smith
Snow
Stewart
Strickland
Teal-Kimmel
Terrill
Thompson-Thaxton
Torres
Trotter
Turnbull
Veatch
Vick
Walker-Compton
Walker-Fistolera
Walton
Warner
Warren
Watts
Weber
Whitworth
55
Sandra Elaine
Carol
Carolyn
Joan
David
Anita Kay
Theresa
Larry
Vernoita
Kay Diane
Marcella
Roy
Dick
Janava
Donna
Louis
Ruby
Allen
Matt
Mona Joy
Margaret
Loyce Mae
Carol
Arthur
Douglas
Jacquline Mae
Ruth May
Mary Janis
Sly
Camile
Beverly
Ruben
Nancy
Victor
Louis
Dianne
Janice Sue
Edith Jane
Melveline
Rebecca
Linda Lee
Patricia Ann
Mary Ann
Lawrence
Lucinda Jean
June
Kennedy
Kidder
Victoria
William
Williams
Zwick-Parker
Frank
Madeline
...
Vallejo High School Class of 1966
Missing List
Please Send Information to Diane Prall Bird
[email protected]
Allen, Bonnie
Allen, Susan
Aquino, Amadeo
Arnold, Richard
Asnicar (Nardone), Cheryl
Atemon, Linda
August, Dale
August, Perda
Bagano, Frances
Baker, Chareesa
Balanza, Percy
Ball, David
Baskerville, Donald
Bayquen, Pam
Bean, Sharon
Beckstead, Jim
Beloate, Dave
Blanza, Percy
Blockman, Ray
Bradley, Bradley
Bradley, Steven
Brandstater, Tamera
Brazil, Jeri
Broadus, Rudy
Brooks, Loyce
Brown, Betty
Brown, Danny
Brown, Ella
Brown, Sandra
Bryant, George
Burke, Susan
Griffis, Sandy
Griffith, Robert
Groo, Boni
Guitierrez, Judy
Gunderson, Kris
Hahn, Mary
Haley, Bartley
Hallin, Mike
Hancock, Jerry
Hardegen, Joy
Harding, Paula
Harris, Steve
Hart, Sankey
Hays, Shirley
Hee, Edwina
Hefner, Francis
Hicks, Shirley
Hinkel, Bill
Hockett, Isaac
Hogan, Ernestine
Hollyfield, Jean
Hope, Karen
Hopper, Linda
Howard, Jean
Howard, Linda
Ingelesias, John
Inman, Myrna
Isaac, Douglas
Jackson (Williams), Patricia
Jensen, Jeff
Johnson, Lynda
56
Paul, Ronald
Pavlin, Rachel
Payne, David
Peters, Jeffrey
Pfister, Cecila
Phenix, Olivia
Phillips, Maryanne
Pierce, Kathy
Pinkston, Chris
Pitman, Linda
Prater, Alan
Price, Marie
Priest, Kathy
Puckett, Dennis
Purdy, Kathleen
Putnam, Lynda
Quinn, Juanita
Rayford, William
Raymond, Bernadette
Rider, Steve
Riera, Valerie
Riley, Michael
Ringor, Linda
Roberts, Richard
Robertson, Evelyn
Rogers, Anna
Rogers, Dave
Rosal, Giovanni
Rose, Linda
Ruble, Dennis
Sanchez, Stella
Byrd, Martha
Caballero, Ruth
Calilan, Gilbert
Calloway, Connie
Carillo, David
Carman, Donald
Carroll, Jacqueline
Carroll, Ronald
Cavalli, Mike
Johnson, Melba
Johnson, Cornell
Johnson, Louis
Jones. Freda
Jones. John
Jones. Larry
Jones. Mike
Jones. Eugene
Jones. James
Schoenaur, Keith
Sharp, Lewis
Shearer, Ellen
Shearer, Jana
Simmons, James
Slater, Joann
Smith, Dennis
Smith, Ken
Smith, Pauline
Cayabyab, Vicente
Kaiser, Greg
Smith, Sandon
Casey, Christine
Chambers, Pamela
Chang, Ester
Christian, Gail
Clark, Jim
Cloud, Charles
Colar, Carl
Coleman, Amy
Colipapa, Jerry
Cook, Bill
Cooley, Linda
Craft, Willie Dean
Crandall, Peggy
Cruz, Ernesto
Cureton, Ben
Cusseaux, Carlos
Davis, Joni
Davis, Judy
Dedmon (Smith), Andrea
Defina, Lucille
Deleon, Albert
DelMas, Richard
Demayo, Senita
DeStefano, Sue
Dickson, Mary
Diggs, Donald
Diggs, Phyllis
DiMaggio, Antoinette
Durig, Nancy
Dwiggins, James
Easterling, Tom
Edmonson, Willie
Elbeck, Albert
Karacha, Ken
Keller, Chris
Kelley, Jacqueline
Kimball, Kathy
Kitchens, Mike
Kitterman, Cassie
Kunz, Marty
LaFlesh, Phil
Lane, Claude
Lara, Connie
Lett, Juanita
Lewis, Rebecca
Lhlman, Frederick
Lloyd, Susan
Lofton, Ella
Lopez, Rose
Lundy, Michael
Lyons, Esterina
Macauliffe, Ronald
Mackbee, Jimmie
Madkins, Alberta
Malato, Larry
Martin, Bill
Martinez, Margaret
Matthews, Gordon
Mays, Allen
McCain, Walter
McClellan, Ann
McClure, Maynard
McCurdy, Pamela
McDonald, Betty
McFarling, Sheila
McGee, Marcia
Smith, Sue
Smith, Douglas
Smith (Gooden), Linda
Snodgrass, William
Solomon, LaVern
Somera, Maria
Spain, Richard
Sparks, Shannon
Splitt, Kenan
Stathoff, Albert
Stewart, Earline
Strickland, Herbert
Tabbs, Evelyn
Tablit, Frankin
Talbert, Sherron
Teves, Barbara
Tewalt, Ann
Thamy, Erlinda
Thamy, Ernesto
Thomas, Brenda
57
Thomas (Jefferson), Bobbi Jean
Thompson, Liv
Tiffany, Stuart
Torio, Lydin
Torres, Linda
Vabri, Regina
Vann, Matthew
Voice, James
Waldroup, Linda
Wallace, Tim
Walton, Ruth
Ware, James
Elkins (Cullison), Marcia
Elliott, Robert
Elliott, Vera
Engesser, Marcus
Ervins (Lawson), Willie
Evangelista, David
Essex, Calvin
Farris, Judy
Fernandes, Carol
Fields, William
Fleschute, Mary
Franklin, Carl
Fronseca, Augie
Fulton, Bennie
Fusilero, Marlene
Galbraith, Nathaniel
Garcia, Virginia
Garelick (Friedman), Francine
Garzione, Rita
Germany, Carol
Giraldi, Carlos
Gomez, Paul
Gondola, Larry
Gray, Suzanne
Gray, Robert
Green, Roger
Green, Sandy
McKissack, Jerry
McKnight, Nora
McMillan, Cherie
Mann, Kenneth
Mead, Mike
Merry, Dorothy
Mesick, Stuart
Miller, Curlie
Miller, Mike
Montgomery, Ruby
Moore, Alvin
Moore, Bobby
Movillon, Linda
Muchmore, Lloyd
Nelson, Ed
Nelson, May
Newman, Ivyl
Novosel, Jeanne
Noyer (Baumann), Charla
Oeser, Dave
Oubichon, Ronald
Owens, Bob
Parham, Sue
Parker, Winona
Parnak, Karen
Parson, Gale
Wartburg, Daniel
Washington Jr., Earnest
Watkins, Janis
Watts, Richard
Wegele, Dana
Wells, Lilly
White, Diane
White, John
White, Linda
Whitney, Harry
Wilhoit, Dennis
Williams, Esther
Williams, Pearl
Willimans, Henry
Wilson, James
Wilson, Steve
Wilson, Gary
Wright, Decola
Yaugher, Karen
Young, Dorothy
Young, Robert
Wittman, Sharon
Woodson, Lena
Woody, Letitia
Wright, Lee
Wright, Nancy
...
YEARBOOKS ON CD
Thanks to Bill Strong ‘62, many of the Yearbooks from Vallejo, Hogan, and St. Vincent’s are available
on a CD. (Also quite a few of the Junior High Schools.) The MU will be happy to send you a personal
copy, of your choice, on a CD for a free will donation. The average donation has been $35. You may
order up to five (5) yearbooks for the same donation. Send your check to: Harry Diavatis, 5087 Green
Meadow Court, Fairfield, CA 94533
Year
1929
36
37
38
39
40
41
VHS
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
HHS
SVHS
VJH
HJH
FJH
58
Sol JH
Springs JH
42
43
44-47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72-74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
Total
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
41
1
1
13
6
11
5
8
1
10
If you have one of the missing Yearbooks and will agree to have it scanned and returned
to you, please contact Bill Strong directly. Bill is the one who has scanned and provided
all of these Yearbooks and we are indebted to him. It would be nice to fill some of the
“holes” especially St. Vincents. Bill’s email is: [email protected]
...
59
THE FINE PRINT
The Monday Update
Publisher/Editor: Harry Diavatis
Published: Weekly
First Edition: Oct. 26, 2004
Circulation: 1,441 subscribed
(est. readers 1500+)
The Monday Update was originally intended to serve as a newsletter for members of the VHS Class of ’62. Over a period
of time, members of companion classes (1960, ’61, ’63, and ’64) and from Hogan and St. Vincent’s, indicated an interest
and began participating. Today the Monday Update has a wide and varied range of readership ranging from 1937 and
into the new millenium. We also have several “guests” who have no direct affiliation with Vallejo, whatsoever, but are able
to relate to the era.. Anyone who has an interest in, or is nostalgic for, our era is welcomed to participate.
Back issues from as far back as 2007 are available on line at www.VHS62.com
To subscribe to the MU go to www.VHS62.com and click on the Link- Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter.”
There is no charge for accessing the Update… just the expectation that subscribers will periodically “contribute”
something to the overall effort, such as a personal update, archival pictures, news, memories, anecdotes, true
confessions etc… anything that may be somehow relevant or interesting to our readership as a whole.
The Editor reserved the right to print, delete, or edit contributions at his discretion and is solely responsible for the content
of the Update. If you send us an email and DO NOT want it published in the Update please be sure to state as much, and
we will respect your wishes. The MU respects your privacy. Personal information, including email addressess and phone
numbers, will not be given out without your permission.
The Monday Update is not financed by, nor does it necessarily reflect the opinions of: Vallejo High School; the VHS
Class of 1962; or the VHS ’62 Reunion Committee. (And it sure as hell doesn’t reflect the Vallejo School Board!)
...
The Official VHS Class of ’62 Web Site
http://www.classreport.org/usa/ca/vallejo/vhs/1962
Administrator: Bill Strong
Asst. Admin: Harry Diavatis
Class size:
Located:
437
Missing:
193
Deceased:
145
Total on File:
775
All members of the VHS Class of ’62 are listed on the site including Missing and Deceased
classmates. Members of VHS ’62 are asked to log on to the site, register, fill out a profile and send in
a current picture. Non class members may also participate and should log on as “guests.”
...
60