1/18/2016 - 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
January 18, 2016
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: Judy Anderson-Larson '64, Richard Barlow SV44, Linda BarskeyWilliams '65, Ron Beckmeyer ’62, Ron Collins ’60, Frank Darling HH66, Kathy DriscollOttarson ’61, Glenn Dyson ’66, Milt Howton ’61, Sharon Kent-Harris ’62, Duane LewisG, Cathy Phillips ‘62, Carmela Piccolo-Coakley ’58, Nick Razes ’56, Oleta Richards-G,
Carol Saal-Shouse ’61, and Charlie Spooner ’60.
1
Remembering
Martin Luther King Jr.
January 15, 1929-April 4, 1968
Index
This ‘n’ That ............................................................................................................... 2
The Mailbag .............................................................................................................. 11
Apache Review of Arts by John Parks ‘62 ................................................................. 19
On the Sidelines ........................................................................................................ 24
A Cup of Joe by Joe Illing ’61 .................................................................................... 25
Postcard Pals ............................................................................................................ 28
Paperback Writer....................................................................................................... 30
This Week’s Newbies ................................................................................................ 31
In Memoriam ............................................................................................................. 31
The Last Word ........................................................................................................... 34
MU Calendar of Upcoming Events ............................................................................ 36
Public Service Announcements (PSA) ...................................................................... 36
Addendums ............................................................................................................... 37
The Fine Print ............................................................................................................ 39
This ‘n’ That
I was saddened to learn that Jim O’Brien SV59 passed away on
January 12, 2016 after a long struggle against cancer. Jim was a great
guy, always very open and smiling. He’ll be missed. Jim’s obit can be
found in the In Memoriam section of this Update.
The following article was printed in Thursdays Times Herald…
Former county coroner Jim O’Brien dies at age 75
By Richard Freedman
Vallejo Times-Herald
Retired Solano County Coroner James “Jim” O’Brien, often praised for easing
the pain of mourning families and living each day with a smile, died Tuesday
from pancreatic cancer. He was 75.
“He always had the families’ best interest at heart in every case he dealt with,”
said Greg Silva of Twin Chapels Mortuary in Vallejo. “He was a really good guy,
a down-to-earth guy who had a very interesting job. And he was very
passionate about his job.”
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No matter what the circumstance, O’Brien “was always sensitive to the situation,” Silva added. “I think
he did a complete and thorough job in ever case.”
O’Brien, a 1959 St. Vincent Ferrer High School graduate and St. Patrick-St. Vincent Alumni Hall of
Fame member, “always wanted to be correct, even if it took extra time,” added John “Sherm”
Passalacqua.
O’Brien “was always a positive guy. He always had a smile on his face,” said Passalacqua, who met
O’Brien in 1977. “He was well known throughout the community and loved being coroner.”
He was involved in numerous organizations along the way, including Order of Red Men, Vallejo
Jaycees, Elks, Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, Moose, Sons of Italy, St. Basil Men’s Club, Native
Sons of the Golden West, and the Solano County March of Dimes.
“He loved Vallejo and he really loved giving to the community. That was his whole goal in life,” said
James “Jimmy” O’Brien, the late coroner’s oldest of four children.
As a former mortician and coroner, James Sr. “was sensitive to people’s feelings,” his son noted. “He
treated people as he would want to be treated.”
The elder O’Brien was never one to leave his work at the office, his son said, and it made his four
children at ease when it came to death and dying.
“He would bring home the old slide projector and would show a casket of a deceased person,” James
Jr. said. “And he would explain how the soul is gone and this is what’s left. I remember that. And he
would explain how death is part of life. We were raised to be comfortable with passing on.”
“His job was a big part of his life,” said Molly Bergeron, O’Brien’s 46-year-old daughter. “Helping
families was a big deal for him. He loved people in general.”
Bergeron said she’ll always remember her father as a joke teller “and he always had a nickname for
everyone he met. He was a genuine, lovable person.”
Bergeron said it was always comforting when someone in the community would find out who her father
was and offer random praise.
“I met people who met my dad and they thanked me for my dad helping them through the process,” she
said. “People always talked highly of my father. That was a tribute to him, that he touched so many
lives. Though such things we already knew, it was nice to hear.”
“He loved people, loved the people he worked with and loved his family,” she said.
And, apparently, O’Brien loved to talk about his job. And, though he didn’t let on, Bergeron said she
was sure some cases got to him more than others.
“When babies would die unexpectedly, I remember him talking about that,” she said. “But as far as the
job affecting him, he didn’t bring that home to us. He was always happy.”
Bergeron said her dad’s health began to waver with a heart attack three years ago. This past Dec. 17,
he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
“I think it was shocking to him to know he was going to be leaving us,” Bergeron said. “At the same
time, he wasn’t afraid of death. It saddened him that he was leaving all of us.”
Bergeron laughed that her dad even got along with his own four siblings.
“He loved every one of them. He never said a mean thing about any of them or anyone,” she said.
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O’Brien always loved Vallejo, she said.
“Loving this town, loving this county. And we all stayed around,” Bergeron said.
Though her dad never said it, Bergeron believes he probably had a greater appreciation of life since his
job often dealt with death.
“When we were kids, he would come home at night, come into the rooms and tuck us in bed,” she said.
After working as coroner “many, many years,” O’Brien was prepared for retirement, his daughter said.
“He was ready to spend time with the family, though I think he missed going in every day,” she said.
James Jr. recalled one particular case his father handled.
The remains of a young female were found near Columbus Parkway where Costco stands today.
O’Brien put the remains in his own vehicle’s trunk but, because it was so late, he took the remains
home instead of the Fairfield office. Instead of leaving them in the trunk, he brought the young female’s
remains inside the house and placed them in the living room on a blanket out of respect.
“That’s how caring he was,” James Jr. said.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Patrick-St. Vincent High School, 1500 Benicia Road
Vallejo, CA., or your favorite local charity.
Visitation will be held 4 to 9 p.m. with the rosary and vigil services to begin at 7 p.m. on Monday, at
Twin Chapels Mortuary, 1100 Tennessee St., Vallejo. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m.
Tuesday, at St. Basil the Great Catholic Church, 1230 Nebraska St., Vallejo. Entombment will
immediately follow at All Souls Catholic Cemetery, Vallejo.
A reception follows the services at The Moose Lodge, 337 Nebraska St. Vallejo, CA., 94590
Arrangements entrusted to the direction and care of Twin Chapels Mortuary, Vallejo .
From: Cathy Phillips ‘62
Sad news to report.... my granddaughter, Teryn O'Brien, informed me of the death of her
grandpa... Jim O'Brien passed away today from cancer... it's a sad day... I've known Jim
and Carol for many years and we both share a granddaughter in common... my deepest
condolences to papa O'Brien’s family.
...
Memorial for a Classmate
On Thursday, I attended a celebration of Life for my classmate Horace
Diggs ’62. The preacher, Samuel Murray, kept it “upbeat” throughout
his eulogy of Horace. Several people from the audience took the mic
and spoke of fond memories with Horace. One of those who spoke was
our classmate Anita Smith-Norwood ’62, who knew Horace practically
all her life.
4
I saw a few people that I
knew, in attendance, besides Anita: the Plumb
brothers Dave ’61 and Art
’62; Ron Beckmeyer ’62;
and Patsy Gilder-Smith ’62.
This was a particularly
Anita Smith-Norwood spoke fondly of Horace
trying time for Horace’s
little sis, Pamela Diggs-Pitts ’62, and Pam’s daughter Lynette, as Pam
also lost her husband Ralph Pitts on Tuesday, January 12. Our
thoughts and prayers are with you Pammie and Lynette.
From: Ron Beckmeyer ‘62
I attended Horace Diggs memorial service. Horace was our classmate graduating with
us in 1962. His service filled Wiggins Funeralchapel's room with relatives and friends.
Horace and I go back--all the way back to Vallejo Jr High School. We both were on the
track team and lettered in the sport. I was a taller boy back then, with longer legs and a
longer stride than Horace. However, Horace racing in the next lane was always next to
me going to the finish line. If the truth is to be told, Horace beat me most times by a
nose. I often thought, how can this smaller boy beat me running? We ran the 50 and
100 yard races, starting off in the starting blocks at the same time. I had a longer leg
stride than Horace, however, for every one long stride I took, Horace took two running.
Horace and I were friends through high school but we went our separate ways after high
school.
Horace had a great heart and his legacy will live on with friends and his family. I was
also able to see Horace's sister Pamela Pitts before his service. Pam and I also go back
many years. Pamela told me that her husband passed away unexpectedly Tuesday
before Horace’s Thursdays service. I am so sorry for Pam to have to take a double loss
of love ones.
Harry, as we all are getting older, we are losing family, and friends and as we know, it
will be our turn one of these days.
5
Yes, Beck, that’s true. That’s why we need to live life to the fullest
while we can, and enjoy our friendships
...
What a Sendoff!
Yesterday it was standing room only at the Napa Elks Lodge as family,
friends and classmates of Kay Lynn Ashlock-Lewis ’61 gathered for a
Memorial celebration for this much beloved lady.
The moment I drove into the parking lot
I knew that it would be a packed house.
I couldn’t even find a parking spot until I
decided that I should be the Elk of the
Month with my own reserved spot right
up front. Thank you, Mr. Elk, whoever
you might be.
I went inside and, sure enough, the
place was packed with a couple of
hundred people standing on the perimeter. I estimate the crowd was
over 500. This Kay Lyn was one popular lady.
After Pastor Kamron Jones recited a
scripture reading and delivered his
message, the Chamber Choir from Napa
High School sang an “Old Irish Blessing
Song.” Good thing the ACLU wasn’t
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around because the song actually mentioned “God.”
Kay’s older brother Roger Ashlock ’58,
delivered the Eulogy which was touching,
compelling and even humorous at times,
beginning with his first memory at 3 years old
when Kay was brought home from the hospital.
There was another
short remembrance
by a close family friend Kevin Casey followed by a
tribute from the daughter Michelle Lewis.
Two of Kay’s grand nieces, Shannon and Lauren
Mattingly, recited a poem, The Prophet, and then
daughter Darci Lewis-Ward
took the mic to say a few
words…
followed by her husband
Ted.
The remembrances brought a mixed bag of tears of joy and tears of sorrow to
Kay’s husband Dennis Lewis and the family.
7
There were many familiar faces at the Memorial. These pictures only represent a
small portion of those present.
Bill Wilson ’61
Don Coburn & Pat Lewis
Carol Saal-Shouse ‘61 &
hubby Herb ’61
Dave Plump ’61
Jan O’Brien-Rapisarda SV61
& Paul Wright ’61 with Russ
Sturgeon ‘59 in the back.
Mary Arvedi ‘63 & Al Bera ‘58
Joe Rapisarda ‘61
Keeley Davisson & Larry
Petrie ‘60
Charlene Imhoff-Davidson ’61
with Michelle Lewis
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Diane Gardner ‘61, Judy
Ilusorio-Lamb ’61, Duana
Ingram HH64, HD, Dianne
Ingram-Mahler ‘62
Jerry Orr ’61, Billy Himes ’61,
HD, & Jack Kelly ‘60
Charlene Imhoff-Davidson ’61, her ex,
Wayne Davidson, Nikki Gonsalves &
Molly Post-Petri ‘61
Jack Kelly ’60, Mike Gaul ’61,
Dave Plump ’61, Billy Himes ’61
& his wife Andy and Jim Snokes
‘61
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Billy Himes ’61, HD, Jack Kelly
’60, Larry Petrie ’60, & Mike
Garton ‘61
As brother Roger finished his eloquent Eulogy of his beloved sister
there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. A recurring theme among all the
various speakers was that Kay displayed unconditional love to all.
Amen to that.
...
From: Carol Saal-Shouse ‘61
Kay was one of my dearest friends. I loved her like a sister. We could go months
without seeing each other and then continue our conversation where we had left off.
Herb and I have known Kay since High School. Herb, too, felt very close to Kay. We
had double-dates with her and attended most of our High School Proms and activities
together.
On at least one occasion, I remember cutting school and driving to Stinson Beach for the
day. I also remember going to SF and riding tandem bikes and spending weekends at
Clear Lake.
After we had raised our children, Kay, Diane Montoya-Timko and I started attending
Music Circus and the Community Center for Musicals. We eventually settled on lunch
together and would meet every few months for birthdays and Christmas. Our last lunch
with Kay was her birthday lunch in November. She chose to go to Rutherford Grill up
near St Helena. It was one of her favorite restaurants. Even though her health was
failing, we had a great lunch and visit. But Diane and I knew, Kay may not be with us
much longer.
I was supposed to be the religious one but I learned so much from Kay and the Christ10
like qualities she exhibited. She was never judgmental and was friends with everyone
she met.
We didn't share the same political views so we avoided talking politics. It was proof to
me that people can be wonderful friends and still have a difference of opinion.
I truly loved Kay. She was one very special person. I will forever treasure the
memories of our times together and the beautiful friendship that we shared.
From: Sharon Kent-Harris ‘62
So sorry to hear of the passing of Kay Ashlock-Lewis. She was indeed always a kind
gentle soul. I also grew up in the Steffan Manor two block radius. We were on Russell
next to the Spooners, around the corner from the Ashlocks and down the hill from Rich
Gunderson. It was a great kid friendly neighborhood that produced successful citizens. I
know her family will be proud of and cherish the woman she was.
From: Milt Howton ‘61
It was so sad to hear of Kay Ashlock’s passing. She was a class lady and, most of all, a
friend. May she rest in peace. God Bless, Kay.
...
The Mail Bag
From: Charlie Spooner ‘60
Dear Faithful Readers: The Winter Edition of Lost Coast
Review is out, and it includes my short story, "Moral
Imperative."
You will find the online edition at www.lostcoastreview.com ,
which is cool because you can read it free. Such a deal!
The print edition will be available in about a week.
There are a couple of minor editing errors (theirs, not mine). Just ignore them. Ha!
...
From: Judy Anderson-Larson '64
Thanks to Randy Morton I am now receiving this wonderful "Update" of my old school
and classmates. Thanks, Harry, for adding me to your list.
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I'll be back in Vallejo again soon for a family memorial.
However, I will again enjoy
the company of my dad and his friends, including Randy so we can discuss your
newsletter. 2016 Blessings.
...
From: Glenn Dyson ‘66
I have a little bit of a quandary though when it comes to Downton Abbey, I am also a
huge fan of the show but, I'm also a huge fan of Alaska the Last Frontier which in
my area comes on at the same time. Considering that I can no longer hear a Howitzer
not 5 ft. from me, I usually watch the Alaska show in lieu of Downton Abbey, as I don't
need to try and translate all the British accents. So... I pay Amazon Video the next day
and watch on the big screen of my computer using headphones. This works well for me
and I can hear everyone of those Brits without taxing my brain! (Why don’t you just
record it for playback? Also enable close captioning which is what I do
and that make the Brit accent much easier to comprehend.)
Harry, Being that I'm not the brightest bulb in the lamp, why do you add the whipped egg
whites to the mixture before adding the flour and baking soda? Would you not reverse
the order of those two?
Dear Mr. “Not the brightest bulb.” According to my wifey, who actually
does most of the work when we make these scrumptious cookies, the
reason you add the whites first is because it’s easier to mix them in
before you add all the flour. Makes sense, eh?
...
From: Richard Barlow SV44
We are writing to update you on my dad's health condition.
As many of you know our dad had his toes amputated almost two years ago due to
vascular insufficiency. And a few weeks ago he got a wound on his same foot and it is
not healing and he is having home health everyday. The doctors have scheduled for him
to have an angiogram and hopefully, perform the angioplasty tomorrow, Jan 14 at 8:30.
Please keep our dad in your thoughts and prayers for a successful procedure and
speedy recovery...also, that all of us and the doctors make the best decisions in the
upcoming days!
Richard updates his dad’s condition a few days later…
At this time our dad took a turn for the worse and is in ICU. Also, he is unable to have
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dialysis but is resting comfortably. He will be moved to the med surgery floor later today
then go home to his apartment at Brookdale for 24 hour hospice care and kept
comfortable.
He is very aware of his health issues; he has made all decisions in regards to his level of
care and is at peace. He has a great team of doctors, nurses and he still has his great
sense of humor.
Thank you to all of you for your continued good thoughts, prayers, and letters of
encouragement!
If you want to send our dad an email, please use my email:
[email protected]
Your dad is experiencing one of the downsides of having a long full life.
Best wishes to him and to you.
...
From: Duane Lewis-G
Harry, Do you think any other Vallejo people can or would like to get behind this with
me?
Mayor Davis,
Osby, I am writing about a WWI monument at Blue Rock Springs park. A
memorial tree was planted and a memorial stone was placed by American
war mothers in front of it in 1924. Today the memorial stone is still in the
same place but has been fenced in, the tree cut down, and become a junk
and material laydown yard with a couple of stolen headstones from the
Carquinez cemetery thrown around it. Berry bushes are allowed to cover it
every spring and summer. Being a veteran, I think this is unacceptable and
a disgrace to our veterans their mothers and the people of Vallejo. I believe
this area needs to be cleaned up and the monument mad e accessible to
visitors and hometown people alike. This is a part of Vallejo history and
needs to be preserved and admired, not lost to neglect and stupidity. I would
appreciate any help from you to help fix this unacceptable situation. I am
including photos. I will do what I can to get as many of my hometown people
behind this issue. Thank you for whatever help you can give.
Vallejo Boy and proud of it.
13
You’re absolutely right, Duane, this is a disgrace and something should
be done about it. I’m sure you’ll receive ample support from the
readers of the MU. However, you do realize, don't you, that the GVRD is
responsible for Blue Rock Springs Park and, perhaps, you should be
including their Board of Directors in this discussion.
Duane responds…
Just sent a copy to them, Thank you for the idea, it is much appreciated.
...
From: Oleta Richards & Family
Kingwood, TX
Dear Harry, I would like to thank all of my husband John Cato's (’56) many Vallejo
friends who called and sent such lovely words of sympathy, support and Mass cards for
John.
John was one of a kind and dearly loved by many people. He fought a long valiant
battle against COPD. He kept his sense of humor and was brave to the end. The
morning of the day he died, he said, "I am not dying and I'm not going to the hospital." I
only wish he had been right. He didn't want to leave us, he knew he would not come
home again.
Thank you everyone.
That’s very touching, Oleta. We hope you find comfort during this very
difficult time.
...
14
From: Frank Darling HH66
Small world thing... you never know when you are going to run into an old friend, or
neighbor.
After skiing this past week a friend of mine and I were having a conversation about how
toxic public hot tubs can be. A very friendly guy joined in the conversation. I looked at
him and thought he looked like someone who grew up in my neighborhood. I didn't think
it could have been him since I haven't seen him for over 55 or so years. So, I just forgot
about it and decided he looked liked someone in my past.
The conversation continued and I asked him where he lived and I got a run down on the
places he lives and visits each year including skiing at Tahoe. I then asked where he
grew up and he said Vallejo. I immediately said “I know who you are... you are Dave
Paden”. Bingo, it was him. It blew his mind, and mine.
Dave grew up about a block from me on Vervais (he was on the corner of Eastwood and
Vervais). He was in the VHS62 class so he admitted he didn't remember me as he
related to those his age and above. Fair enough. But, we each decided that I probably
saw him most because he hung out with Martin Knott, some Richard Knott, and I was a
friend of John Knott. The Knott house had a lot of boys in and out on a daily basis, with
a wide age range from Martin's age down to John's. Dave Paden's dad had a camera
store on Tennessee, think in the area of Baskin-Robbins, close to Tuolumne. (Yes, it
was Cine Camera and I shopped there for many years.)
And over 20 years ago, I ran into a guy, who looked familiar, at the Dallas-Fort Worth
airport. He was a pilot for NW Airlines and he lived close to the Paden's and me... Jerry
Jacks (HH67?). We had a brief conversation before he loaded his flight. And, if this is
not enough, I once encountered a man running through O'Hare who looked familiar but
who was in a hurry to catch a flight. I stopped him long enough to establish that he was
in fact Harry Spears (HH64?). He lived in Wisconsin and worked for a bike company,
Trex? I also think Harry lived in or around our neighborhood. I never spoke with either
Jerry or Harry again.
Like I say, small world.
...
From: Carmela Piccolo-Coakley ‘58
Sooooooo, Harry, I missed the January 3rd, showing of 60 Minutes. So this morning we
watched it On Demand. I had to see it for myself. Not that I don't trust you... tch, tch.
This time I have to agree... as much as I dislike the thought of agreeing with, (yes)...you!
15
But when I was in Italy this summer my cousins talked about the Mafia invading Calabria
and doing what they have done for years in Sicily.
I DO have to say that the olive oil from my father's olive orchard was so thick and green
that you only needed a couple of tablespoons added to anything you prepared. It was
rich and delicious! But that was a long time ago. I haven't had any of their oil in years. In
fact the orchard barely produces anymore. Which is a good thing considering the Mafia
wanting to take it over!
Did I ever show you the photo of
my father way back in the day?
And the beauty of the land?
I hate to say this
Yet, the house he grew up in is a
Carm, but your old
far cry from the way he lived.
man looks like a
Here's a photo when we were
“capo crimini.”
visiting last year.
I brought a few bottles of wine to
Italy for my cousins. The grapes
come from my nephew's vineyard in Suisun. We have them picked, then taken to Green
Valley Winery to be processed. It is a
blend of Merlot & Chardonnay. Smooth
and very good. My cousins liked it, and
said it was a little stronger than theirs
bought in a store. Probably because it was
cut with something else!! Haha
Here's a photo of a vineyard we visited
while in Italy and the wine was pure!
Notice how the vineyard is surrounded by
olive trees. So was my brother's vineyard,
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and so are my nephews! The olives bring good luck, as long as you don't send them out
to be processed!! haha
Ohhhhh Harry, No matter what the Mafia does or doesn't do... I LOVE ITALIA with all its
beauty and culture.
And Greece's isn't so bad either!
Harry, I just wanted to tell you that we would have
loved to come to the Greek Crab Feed on the 6th,
but we have another commitment. Which leads me
to wonder.....WHY don't YOU ever come to the
Italian Lodge for our dinners. Last night was the
Polenta Feed, and it was superb! Only $15 for
salad, bread, and polenta with stew. The place was
packed!
They're skipping the Crab Feed this year. Unlike
the Greeks who are either taking a chance or paying top dollar.
BTW, I understand that the Greeks are now half Syrian! Hahahahaha.... No more
purebreds in the future? Oh heck, they all look alike anyway so what's the dif?
Ciao~
You know, Carm, after reading the top half of your email I was
considering forgiving all of your past transgressions because you were
being so nice and contrite… but now that you’re slamming my ethnicity
again… all bets are off you little “Strega.”
...
From: Nick Razes ‘56
Rain doesn't slow us down, but I really miss my other dog.
Cute, Nikko… you and the puppy in matching
outfits.
...
17
From: Carol Schneider-Bourgerie '61
Hi Harry
Maybe Tom Price has already contacted you, but he's looking to reach Bill Hyland
because Bill's father was a very important person in Solano County Scouting. I
suggested to Tom that he contact you to see if Bill is a MU subscriber and I told Tom
that I'd try some other methods of locating him. When Tom e-mailed back, he didn't say
that he was going to contact you and for me to have fun finding Bill. So, I am starting
with you.
I'm just glad that Tom is back on the road again with his research after his most recent
medical setback.
Thanks for any help you can provide.
Carol, Bill Hyland is not on my subscription list so, sorry, but can’t
help.
...
...
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The Apache Review of Arts
…”Genuine”
By John Parks
Happy MLK Day everyone!
THOSE EIGHT NAMES ---- last week were of the first Presidents of the United States –
under the Articles of Confederation. Each served a one year term. Correct answers
arrived from Mike Gaul, Leslie Elston-LeMaster, Tom Cropper (President of the Maritime
Academy), and the winner, Bob Doyel (Hogan '68). Frank Wimberly's answer was close
and deserves a consolation prize for he revealed he's a descendent of one of them,
Richard Henry Lee, and so is related to the other Lees of Virginia -- as is Bob Lee
(Robert E. Lee the fifth) who was sports director at a school my youngest daughter
taught at.
“PRESIDENT'S OWN” ---- I went to the recent United States Marine Band concert
recently at the George Mason University Center for the Arts. It was great, of course.
Mostly they played Sousa
compositions.
I was reminded of our entire family
going, about 1954, to see the film,
“The John Phillip Sousa Story”, at
the El Rey I think. And I
remembered getting a “Marine
Band” harmonica for Christmas one
year. A Wikipedia article says, “The
Marine Band has been Hohner's
most popular model of harmonica
for generations. It is technically
named the Marine Band 1896/20, for the year it was introduced and the twenty reeds it
possesses, and has been the basis of a number of Hohner's harmonicas over the years.
Made in Germany on a wood comb, most blues and rock artists play a Marine Band.
Several noted users are Bob Dylan, John Lenon, Bruce Springsteen, Little Walter, and
Neil Young.” Tropical Smoothie Cafe
POPLAR SPRINGS ---- is a neat old
inn and restaurant I discovered while
out scouting possible relic-hunting
sights near the village of Cassanova,
near Warrenton.
19
A few months
later I returned
for a really nice
lunch at this table.
THIS WEEK'S SONG ---- is a really beautiful ballad by the
McGuire Sisters, a big hit for them in 1959, May You Always.
Hear it again here and note the word phrases borrowed from Auld Lang Sine.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vseQPmUd58k
While we're at it, here's another great old ballad from that era, by Dion and The
Belmonts. Enjoy the smooth harmony of Where Or When right here!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfTZRpCUXc0
ANOTHER COOL CARQUINEZ BRIDGE PHOTO by ERIC DUGAN---The Carquinez Strait is named after the Karkin ("los Carquines" in Spanish), a linguistic
division of the Ohlones who resided on both sides of the strait. I once read they did
some basic communication across the water by loud whistling.
The writer Brett Harte titled a story he wrote in 1883, “In the Carquinez Woods” Harte
died in Camberley England in 1902 was buried in St. Peter's churchyard, Frimley,
England. The gravestone is etched with a line from his poem, Reville: "Death Shall
Reap the Braver Harvest”.
20
HARK! I hear the tramp of thousands
And of armed men the hum:
Lo! A nation’s hosts have gathered
Round the quick alarming drum,
Saying, “Come,
Freemen come!”
Ere your heritage be wasted,’ said the quick alarming drum
Let me of my heart take counsel:
War is not of life the sum;
Who shall stay and reap the harvest
When the autumn days shall come?
But the drum
Echoed, ‘Come!
Death shall reap the braver harvest,’ said the solemn-sounding drum.
‘But when won the coming battle,
What of profit springs therefrom?
‘But when won the coming battle,
What of profit springs therefrom?
What if conquest, subjugation,
Even greater ills become?’
But the drum
Answered, ‘Come!
You must do the sum to prove it,’ said the Yankee-answering drum.
‘What if, ’mid cannons’ thunder,
Whistling shot and bursting bomb,
When my brothers fall around me,
Should my heart grow cold and numb?’
But the drum
Answered, ‘Come!
Better there in death united, than in life a recreant,—Come!’
Thus they answered,—hoping, fearing,
Some in faith, and doubting some,
Till a trumpet-voice proclaiming,
Said, ‘My chosen people, come!’
Then the drum,
Lo! was dumb.
For the great heart of the nation, throbbing, answered, ‘Lord, we come!
21
OLD NAVY ---- had so much negative
feedback from customers on this shirt
that the product was removed from its
stores. STEM is good, but so is ART.
AND ---- for whatever it's worth, this big headline and
article was just published on the website of a major
Washington radio station: “Afterschool Art Program Helps
D.C. Youth Exorcise Fears Of Gun Violence”. 'Spose it
can't hurt.
FROZEN FRACTILES ---- on my car's windshield:
ADVICE FROM BRENDAN COYNE ----
22
HARRY AND CRAG SHOWED “CUT-OUT” PHOTOS ARE ALL THE RAGE! ---Robert Carter had a much better face than seen
in this photo, taken at the local museum in
Manassas. I met a friend for lunch out there and
he'd not seen this museum so afterward walked
over for a look-see. They had a special exhibit on
Robert “King” Carter, owner of the most land and
the wealthiest person in colonial Virginia. Among
his progeny are many notable Americans,
including President Jimmy Carter.
SUNRISE AT THE PEAKS ---Teton Valley, Idaho. from cousin
Susan C.
“MISTS OF AVAJOHN” ---- on a brisk
four-mile walk around Burke Lake.
Singing in the woods - “like a
northwest Mountie”,
John
[email protected]
...
23
On the Sidelines
Professional athletes with Vallejo ties…
C.J. Anderson was named the Player of the Game in the Denver
Broncos 23-16 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers yesterday and will
now play the New England Patriots in the AFC championship game
next weekend. C.J. carried the ball 15 times for 72 yards and 1
touchdown and caught 2 passes for 11 yards. To cap it all off he
recovered an on-side kick attempt by the Steelers to help preserve the win.
...
Contributed by Linda Barskey-Williams '65
24
Start your Monday with
A
By Joe Illing ‘61
How I Won The Cold War, Part 10 … REDEMPTION
A Roman wall in Butzbach, an ancient Hessen city
that’s hosted garrisons from Caesar’s legions to the
Gestapo to the US Army 16th Signal Battalion
T
o say I found daily life in the real army back in Butzbach
ireal boring would be like saying I found water to be wet.
To say I found my expulsion from Koblenz painful would
be like saying a root canal hurts. However, I had no
choice but to soldier on!
By definition garrison life in armies, from before Hannibalto Ike
has always been boring. After all, it’s a waiting game … and
during the Cold War you were waiting for work, which meant you were waiting for war,
which your garrison’s presence (in theory) was meant to deter, which, when logically
considered, meant waiting was your job, the corollary to which meant that your boredom
meant you were saving the world from catastrophic war.
A sound strategy perhaps, but not without its challenges, especially for those supervising
the thousands of troops milling around waiting! Consequently the sergeants and officers
of the 16th Signal Battalion would devise training activities for readiness, creating a
routine that was both monotonous and uninspired, and usually nonsensical … thus
affirming the old saying, “there’s the right way, the wrong way and the army way.”
Naturally it didn’t take long for us troops to catch-on to the futility of this make-work
nonsense, and to concoct measures to counter it. Upon my arrival several of my comrades in arms cautioned me to always carry a tool around … any tool, it didn’t matter
25
because if you had a tool in your hand your superiors couldn’t discipline you for
doing nothing, which, of course, was exactly what you were doing. But no matter, the
tool would protect you!
GIs were looking for the perfect
evening accompanied with beer
The city of Butzbach itself was a pleasant place filled with
timber-framed homes, small shops and bars stuffed with bored,
hormone-crazed GIs. I visited a few of the bars once or twice,
but had no interest in hanging out with a bunch of guys all
looking for the same thing, gemütlich fräuleins … and finding
nothing but drinking, trouble and loneliness at the bottom of their beer steins.
I did quickly find Frankfurt am Main, however which lay a scant 20 miles away!
Frankfurt! That beautiful, dynamic world city acted as a balm for my kicked-out-ofparadise woes. I’d go there on weekends, sit at long tables in its Altstadt (old city … a
neighborhood of which not much remained after WWII’s bombings, out of which a
modern city rose that’s since become the financial capital of Europe) eating the world’s
best sauerkraut and gulping down the world’s best apple wine, a few glasses of which
would inspire everyone at the table to hook arms, sway, sing and act like complete fools
while having the times of their lives.
I’d go to concerts and the opera, churches on Sunday mornings (to hear to their
absolutely angelic choirs), or take long strolls exploring the city or along the banks of
the Main River. In no time I found a centrally located, inexpensive bed and breakfast,
and, much as it had astonished me at Fort Gordon, Georgia, almost every weekend I
applied for, and received, a three day pass (so few other GIs requested them I
received them by default).
Out of the near total destruction of World War
II rose the new Frankfurt, financial engine of
the new Germany … and the new Europe
It also wasn’t long before I met Karen, a bright,
attractive young lady from Boston who worked at
a U.S. financial services firm in Frankfurt. We hit
it off immediately, which added an extra allure to
long weekends in the dynamic Hessen city!
26
Although I’d found a groove of sorts in Butzbach, after a few months the grind of that
groove was starting to wear me down.
I looked into alternatives, ways to get out of the endless boredom of army life … such as
punching the battalion’s colonel or stealing a jeep for one last joy ride. I figured a dishonorable discharge would beat death by degrees, which is exactly how my time in that
army was beginning to feel.
But then it happened! One morning, out of the blue, my company commander called me
to his office … “Illing. Pack your things. You’re going back to Koblenz!”
My knees buckled! Words failed me! This was without a doubt the best news I’d ever
heard!
“YES SIR!” I shouted, executing a perfect military about face and running to my barracks
in order to jam my meager assortment of toiletries and clothes into my duffle bag and
wait for the jeep from Koblenz to pick me up!
“Hallelujah! Thank God! Oh boy oh boy oh boy! God bless Saint Pete, truly a man to be
praised, a man of his word, a man among men! I’m headed back to paradise!” ran
though my head like a crazy audio loop that wouldn’t end.
Nothing could say it better than
a big smile and a wave goodbye!
While I waited I tried my best not to exult in my triumph. I
didn’t need to be told what happened. I knew. The sergeant from Texas had lied to Pete and Pete caught him.
Simple as that!
When my heavenly chariot from Koblenz finally arrived, the disgraced sergeant sat in it
with a long face. I refrained from saying anything. After all, there really wasn’t anything I
wanted to say to him … or that I could say beyond a simple wave goodbye and a broad
grin, which conveyed my triumph better than any combination of words in the entire
English lexicon could do.
And after all, I’d won … I was headed back to paradise!
——————–
Coming next! How I Won The Cold War, Part 11 … THE FIRST CHRISTMAS
27
...
You don’t really think you’re the only one who has aged, do you?
...
From: Kathy Driscoll-Ottarson ‘61
My husband and I spend 3 months each winter here in
lovely sunny Zihuatanejo escaping from the dreary winters
in western Washington where we live. On Saturday
January 9th I participated in my third 1.1 mile Sharkfest
swim in Troncones Mexico. Troncones is a sleepy little fishing and surfing village about
30 miles from where we stay.
Sharkfest Swims are scheduled all over the country including the Alcatraz to San
Francisco and Lake Tahoe swims. This is the only international one and it is also the
only one that is just for fun, a noncompetitive event. I felt confident doing this as I daily
swim a mile for exercise and general health and I am experienced on this course. But
28
today the surf was high. Normally this time of year the surf is quite flat, not so at other
times as this is a good surfing beach.
We started our swim a little further down the beach
at Majahua than we have before and had to swim
much further out around the rocks at the point than in
previous years. It was a good swim, I came in 11th
out of 23, (remember this is not competition, but just
a fun event) but being the oldest swimmer in the
group, I’m damn sure not going to come in last.
I will preface the rest of this by saying I normally
swim in lakes, pools, or at Las Gatas and Ixtapa
Island beaches which have little to no surf. I was in
no way prepared for coming ashore in heavy surf.
Needless to say I got pounded. The first wave took
away one of my swim fins, the second the other fin,
my swim cap, goggles with my swim IPod attached
departed with the third wave. Now I am only 10-15
feet from shore but I can’t get in and I know I’m in
trouble. So do the folks on shore, next thing I know a
very strong man has a hold of me as the 4th wave
takes us under and he helps me get to shore. This is
not exactly the finish I had hoped for.
My husband was poised to take pictures of my finish, fortunately he spared me the
embarrassment. All's well that ends well, I lived to tell the tale. Then to add to the
indignity of it as my husband and I walked down the beach to return to the bungalow we
stayed at we watched a dog purposely run into the high surf and body surf time and time
again. I should learn from him.
For this and other tales of our time here in Mexico I do an almost daily blog which can be
found at www.zihuathyme.wordpress.com
Hmmm… doesn’t sound like much fun to me. Maybe you can invite
Suzie Schmutz ’59 to join you next year seeing as she loves swimming
and is good at it. You’re damn lucky you didn’t drown… or worse. (I
guess the only thing worse would be if one of those Sharkfest sharks
decided to eat you.)
...
29
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 here.
“Dear Sir or Madam, will you read my book?
It took me years to write, will you take a look?”
Paperback Writer
When In Old Age
When older age folds around me
with the sheer weight of gravity
When my weaker muscles
must attempt to overcome
When my spirit is tested
with the work of it all
I will remember!
To always be on the lookout
for how to overcome the doubt
old age brings
Understand the worthwhile of it
Continue seeking comfort
from others
including their recognition and understanding
To treat all with fairness, respect, worthiness
and love
So help me God
May I remember!
…Ron Collins ‘60
30
...
This week’s Newbies
The Monday Update welcomes Paula Wiertzemal, Paul Henderson
’64 and Jim Ochs SV60.
...
In Memoriam
James Edward “Jim” O’Brien SV59
Dec 2, 1940 – Jan. 12, 2016
Former Solano County Coroner, James “Jim” Edward O’Brien, 75,
passed away January 12, at his home in Vallejo surrounded by his
loving family.
Jim was born Dec. 2, 1940 at Mary’s Help Hospital in San Francisco to
Edward James and Jeannette Elise O’Brien.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Carole Ann Valado-O’Brien SV60;
two sons, Jim Jr. and John; two daughters, Molly (Todd) Bergeron and
Katie O’Brien, Jim and Carole also raised Maggie (Ron) Mercer, as one of their own.
They have 10 grandchildren, Julia O’Brien, Kevin Bergeron, Justin Bergeron, James
O’Brien III, Teryn O’Brien, Cameron O’Brien-Bailey, Michael Bergeron and Alyssa
O’Brien, Brandon Mercer, and Dillon Mercer.
He was the eldest of five children and is survived by his brother, Richard (Sharon)
O’Brien; his sisters, Janice (Joe) Rapisarda, Patricia (Paul) O’Hara, and Sally (Jack)
Muratori; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Jim graduated from St. Vincent Ferrer High School in 1959 and was active in student
affairs and sports. Jim started in the fourth grade as a Times-Herald paperboy, a position
he held until after his graduation from High School.
Jim enjoyed being a leader and member in his community in many ways. He was a
member of many clubs including the Order of Red Men, Vallejo Jaycees, Elks, Lions
Club, Knights of Columbus, Young Men’s Institute, Moose, Sons of Italy, St Basil Men’s
31
Club, Native Sons of the Golden West, Solano County March of Dimes and the
S.P.R.S.I. He served as President of the Redwood Empire Funeral Directors Association
and was a Lector at both St. Vincent Church and St Basil Church for 20 years. Jim was
inducted into the SPSV Alumni Hall of Fame in 2009.
Jim attended Solano Community College for one year, and graduated from San
Francisco College of Mortuary Science in 1963. In 1974, Jim campaigned and won his
bid for Coroner and Public Administrator of Solano County and was re-elected six times.
From 1988 – 1989 he served two terms as president of the California State Coroner’s
Association. In 1990 Jim was named Manager of the Year by the California Coroner’s
Association. Over his 38 years of service, he was loved and respected by those he
worked with. He retired in Dec. 2001.
Jim O’Brien was a man of service, a loyal and loving friend, husband, brother, father,
and grandfather. Jim loved spending time with family and joking with his friends. He had
a great heart and his legacy will live on in ours forever.
Special thanks to Jim’s caregiver, Nanita Lazaro, St. Basil Lazarus Ministry, and to our
friends and family for all of your love and support.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to St. Patrick – St. Vincent High School, 1500
Benicia Road, Vallejo, CA or your favorite local charity.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 9 p.m., with the rosary and vigil services to begin at 7
p.m. on Monday, Jan. 18, at Twin Chapels Mortuary, 1100 Tennessee St., Vallejo. Mass
of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Jan 19, at St Basil the Great Catholic
Church, 1230 Nebraska St, Vallejo. Entombment will immediately follow at All Souls
Catholic Cemetery, Vallejo.
Please join the family following the services at the Moose Lodge, 337 Nebraska St., CA
94590.
Arrangements entrusted to the direction and care of Twin Chapels Mortuary, Vallejo
(707) 552-6696.
...
Horace Windsor Diggs Jr. ‘62
Nov. 2, 1943 - Dec. 31, 2015
Horace Windsor Diggs, Jr., 72, of Colorado Springs, CO, passed away
on Thursday, Dec. 31, after a long illness.
Horace was born on November 2, 1943 in Vallejo California and was
32
the oldest of four children born to Horace W. and Pluma E. Diggs. The family lived in
Chabot Terrace housing development until 1950 which is where Horace started
kindergarten at Olympic School. In 1950 the family moved “in town” to Ohio Street
where he grew up. Horace attended McKinley Elementary School, Vallejo Jr. High
School and graduated from Vallejo Sr. High School in 1962.
Horace accepted Christ at an early age and sang in the Youth choir at 2nd Baptist Church
for several years and later attended Taylor Chapel CME Church along with his family.
After graduation from high school he went to work at Mare Island Naval Shipyard where
he worked as a Pipefitter helper and Technical Support Specialist. He left Mare Island
briefly to work with his lifelong friend Bill Beatty. Upon returning to Mare Island he
worked in Technical Support until Mare Islands closed. Not wanting to retire at that point
of time, he transferred his employment briefly to Medford Oregon and then to the Air
Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO where he worked as a Technical Support
Specialist until he retired in 2009. Always a bundle of energy, he didn’t want to sit and
be a “do nothing” as he called it, so he found part-time employment first working for
Walmart and then an Auto Parts store in Colorado Springs.
In April 1968 he married Barbara Ann Woodson. To that union were born two sons;
Lathan J and Corey J.. He was a devoted father who was actively involved in his son’s
sports activities, serving as a volunteer for several Babe Ruth and Little League teams
where is was affectionally known as “Coach”. He was proud that his Babe Ruth team
travelled to South Carolina where they won 1st place in a World Series competition.
Horace was also an avid bowler and was well known in Bay Area bowling circles while
participating in several bowling leagues and statewide tournaments during the 1970s
and 1980s. He was proud of the diamond ring presented to him by the Professional
Bowling Association (PBA) for bowling a perfect 300 game during tournament play.
When his father passed in 1994, he announced he was no longer a Jr. and began
encouraging people to call him J.R. rather than Horace or junior although he still
answered to being called Junior. by his siblings and long time friends. He was a proud,
kind and loving man with a keen sense of humor and would always come up with
unique quips or sayings that made himself laugh. Being a California kid he laughingly
referred to Colorado as Cold-a-rado.
During one of his last telephone conversations, on December 21, he confirmed that he
still claimed Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Shortly afterward, Horace became ill
and went home to be with the Lord while at his home in Colorado Springs. Horace was
predeceased by his parents Horace (1994) and Pluma Diggs (2000). He leaves to
mourn his memory: two sons, Lathan J. of Union City, Georgia and Corey J. of Fairfield,
California; asister Pamela Pitts of Vallejo; and two brothers, Cary ‘66 of Vallejo and
33
Luther of Santa Rosa. He also leaves six grandchildren, Lathan J, II of Union City,
Georgia, James, Corey, Jr. and, Tyra Diggs of Fairfield, Nia and Zoie Diggs of Virginia,
niece Lynette Pitts of Vallejo and nephews, Mark Pitts, Darnell and Cary Jr Diggs of
Vallejo and a host of other relatives and friends.
A Memorial service was held on January 14, at Wiggins-Knipp Funeral Home, in Vallejo.
Inurnment was private.
...
The Last Word…
Did you have one of these when you were six years old? Didn’t think
so. I would have been happy if I’d even had a bike much less an ATV,
which is what Steven’s daddy bought him for his sixth birthday which
was yesterday.
Preparing to board…
Ready?
…and away we go.
It’s quite a state of the art vehicle. Paul can control it by remote
control if he needs to.
...
Have you ever noticed that the big corporations have us by “the short
hairs?” We have come to depend upon the internet to such an extent
that when it’s not available our life is disrupted. Last Friday, Comcast,
(which is one of the most hated companies in the land) went down and
my computer wasn’t available for hours. I couldn’t check my emails, I
couldn’t find the current news, I couldn’t check my stock account… on
34
and on and on. This, in my opinion, is just a foreshadowing of things to
come. Our lives are so intertwined with the new technology that we
may someday find ourselves virtually incapacitated if something major
were to occur. I’m not paranoid (am I?) and I’m not a conspiracy
theorist but lots of bad things are out there in the future. Of course, I
won’t be around to worry about it… I’ll leave that up to my kids.
...
Sadly it seems that most of my current “social life” revolves around
going to funerals and memorials for friends and classmates. Sigh…
It seems as if it’s about the only time that I get to see friends from a
by-gone era.
… thanks for starting your
/
Monday with me… hd
...
A fanatical baseball fan prayed fervently to God because he wanted
to know if there was baseball in heaven. Well it seems as if the “Old
Man” heard his prayers and came to Mike in a dream one night.
"Mike, I've got good news and bad news,” said the Lord. “The good
news is, yes, there IS baseball in heaven. The bad news is, you're
scheduled to pitch tomorrow.”
...
35
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
Time
Sept. 2016
The 2nd Annual MURP
TBA
Noon
Sept. 23, 2016
Sept. 24, 2016
Friday Night Cocktail Mixer
Reunion Dinner
Oct. 1, 2016
Reunion Dinner
Combined Hogan ’66 & St. Vincent’s ‘66 Fifty Year Reunion
Zio Fraido’s- Vallejo
Vallejo Naval Museum
TBA
TBA
VHS ‘61 Fifty-five Year Reunion
Double Tree by Hilton
American Canyon
TBA
...
Public Service
Announcement
The Vallejo Police Activities League (PAL) needs help from the public to make
improvements to the athletic field near Franklin Jr. High and adjacent to the PAL offices.
This new project will ultimately include three baseball fields and off-street parking.
This multi-million dollar project has several phases with the first being the concession/
bathroom area. Several revisions to the plan have occured over the years and the
current project is expected to cost $330,000. To date, we have secured approximately
$300,000 in funding - mostly from the City of Vallejo. The contribution from the City
($250,000) is contingent upon raising the balance of funds to complete the project. This
is where you can help, your tax-deductible donation will help us achieve our goal to
implement phase 1 of the project. We need to secure funding by January 31, 2016.
If you want to contribute to this worthy cause go to the link for the GoFundMe
page…https://www.gofundme.com/vallejopalproject
36
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.)
No reunion info has been submitted.
...
37
ADDENDUM TWO: Missing Classmates
(Reunion committees: Send me your list if you want it posted here.)
No lists have been submitted
...
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
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
VHS
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
HHS
SVHS
VJH
HJH
FJH
Sol JH
Springs JH
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
38
1
1
1
1
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
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]
...
THE FINE PRINT
The Monday Update
Publisher/Editor: Harry Diavatis
Published: Weekly
First Edition: Oct. 26, 2004
Circulation: 1,408 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!)
39
...
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:
431
Missing:
195
Deceased:
144
Total on File:
770
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.”
...
40