Retiree`s Newsletter

Founded
1971
Issue
November 2014
Retiree’s
Newsletter
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
November 2014
Audie Murphy WWII Hero and Actor
List of Decorations for Audie Murphy:
Medal of Honor
Distinguished Service Cross
Silver Star (with oak leaf cluster)
Legion of Merit
Bronze Star (with oak leaf cluster and Valor Device)
Purple Heart (with two oak leaf clusters)
U.S. Army Outstanding Civilian Service Medal
U.S. Army Good Conduct Medal
Presidential Unit Citation (with First Oak Leaf Cluster)
American Campaign Medal
European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal (with One Silver Star,
Four Bronze Service Stars (representing nine
Campaigns) and one Bronze Arrowhead (representing assault landing at
Sicily and Southern France )
World War II Victory Medal
Army of Occupation Medal (with Germany Clasp)
Armed Forces Reserve Medal
French Fourrage in Colors of the Croix de Guerre
French Legion of Honor - Grade of Chevalier
French Croix de guerre (with Silver Star),
French Croix de guerre (with Palm)
Medal of Liberated France
Belgian Croix de guerre (with 1940 Palm)
Additionally, Murphy was awarded:
|the Combat Infantry Marksman badge with Rifle Bar,
Expert Badge with Bayonet Bar.
Now to find out that his widow was also most certainly a hero. Truly fantastic.
(From the Los Angeles Times on April 15, 2010)
Pamela Murphy, widow of WWII hero and actor, Audie Murphy, died peacefully at her home on April 8,
2010. She was the widow of the most decorated WWII hero and actor, Audie Murphy, and established her
own distinctive 35 year career working as a patient liaison at the Sepulveda Veterans Administration
hospital, treating every veteran who visited the facility as if they were a VIP.
Any soldier or Marine who came into the hospital got the same special treatment from her. She would walk
the hallways with her clipboard in hand making sure her boys got to see the specialist they needed. If they
didn't, watch out.
Her boys weren't Medal of Honor recipients or movie stars like Audie, but that didn't matter to Pam. They
had served their Country. That was good enough for her. She never called a veteran by his first name. It was
always "Mister." Respect came with the job.
"Nobody could cut through VA red tape faster than Mrs. Murphy," said veteran Stephen Sherman, speaking
for thousands of veterans she befriended over the years. "Many times I watched her march a veteran who had
been waiting more than an hour right into the doctor's office.
She was even reprimanded a few times, but it didn't matter to Mrs. Murphy. "Only her boys mattered. She
was our angel."
November 2014
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
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Audie Murphy died broke in a plane crash in 1971, squandering millions of dollars on gambling, bad
investments, and yes, other women. "Even with the adultery and desertion at the end, he always remained my
hero," Pam told me.
She went from a comfortable ranch-style home in Van Nuys where she raised two sons to a small apartment taking a clerk's job at the nearby VA to support herself and start paying off her faded movie star husband's
debts. At first, no one knew who she was. Soon, though, word spread through the VA that the nice woman
with the clipboard was Audie Murphy's widow. It was like saying General Patton had just walked in the front
door. Men with tears in their eyes walked up to her and gave her a Hug.
"Thank you," they said, over and over.
The first couple of years, I think the hugs were more for Audie's memory as a war hero. The last 30 years,
they were for Pam.One year I asked her to be the focus of a Veteran's Day column for all the work she had
done. Pam just shook her head no. "Honor them, not me," she said, pointing to a group of veterans down the
hallway. "They're the ones who deserve it."The vets disagreed. Mrs. Murphy deserved the accolades, they
said. Incredibly, in 2002, Pam's job was going to be eliminated in budget cuts. She was considered "excess
staff." "I don't think helping cut down on veterans' complaints and showing them the respect they deserve
should be considered excess staff," she told me. Neither did the veterans. They went ballistic, holding a rally
for her outside the VA gates. Pretty soon, word came down from the top of the VA. Pam Murphy was no
longer considered "excess staff." She remained working full time at the VA until 2007 when she was 87.
"The last time she was here was a couple of years ago for the conference we had for homeless veterans,"
said Becky James, coordinator of the VA's Veterans History Project. Pam wanted to see if there was
anything she could do to help some more of her boys. Pam Murphy was 90 when she died. What a lady.
Dennis McCarthy,
Los Angeles Times on April 15, 2010
Submitted by Fred Mark
Three celebrities and the myths about them
Lee Marvin
Bob Keeshan"Captain Kangaroo"
Fred Rogers "Mister Roger's Neighborhood"
There are many myths about how actor Lee Marvin and children's television show host, Bob Keeshan,
better known as "Captain Kangaroo," served together in the Marines, during World War II. But that is all
they are: rumors. Lee Marvin was born on February 19, 1924. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during
World War II in the Pacific and was awarded a Purple Heart for a wound that he received there. Once he
returned, he became a movie actor and starred in a number of motion pictures. He continued acting until his
death in 1987.
Lee Marvin had quite the record, especially with war. He was a private in the U.S. Marines 4th Division by
the age of 20. He was a part of the Allied landing force that invaded the Japanese-held Pacific island of
Saipan on July 15, 1944. He was wounded in the buttocks by fire which severed his sciatic nerve. This
injury occurred during the battle for Saipan in June 1944, not the battle for Iwo Jima, as is often rumored. He
received a Purple Heart. Upon his death he was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
After the war, Lee worked as a plumber's assistant at a local community theatre in Upstate New York. It is
here when Lee was asked to replace an actor who had fallen ill during rehearsals. He then began an amateur
Off-Broadway acting career in New York City. He also served as an understudy in Broadway productions.
He later moved to Hollywood, and dedicated himself to his acting career.
Lee Marvin was a prematurely white-haired character star who began as a supporting actor. He was known
for being unsympathetic heroes, his white hair, gravelly voice, his tall and lean frame, and portraying his
liberal politics viewpoint. Lee was an undeniable Hollywood source during his time.
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
November 2014
Bob Keeshan was a children's entertainer known as "Captain Kangaroo." Bob had signed up for the U.S.
Marine Corps Reserve shortly before his eighteenth birthday in 1945. The war was nearly over before Bob
finished his basic training, and he never saw combat.
According to their respective biographies, Lee had already been injured and shipped back to the United
States. He received a Purple Heart by the time Bob began basic training. There was no possible way they
could have encountered one another in combat. Records show neither was awarded the Navy Cross.
Bob later became a television actor, and most notoriously known for his role as Captain Kangaroo; he then
quickly was nicknamed Captain Kangaroo.
Fred Rogers was the host of children's television show "Mister Roger's Neighborhood." It ran from 1968 to
2001. He had a very soft spoken and gentle personality made famous from his show. During his run on TV,
he became recognized as an icon in children's entertainment and education. He earned a degree in music
composition from Rollins College before he started working in television. He led a very simple lifestyle and
was a known vegetarian. He eventually died from stomach cancer in 2003.
The myth that continues to circulate about Mr. Rogers is that he has tattoos all up and down his arms. Some
myths claim that he was enlisted in the military, and that he has multiple confirmed kills. There is
speculation in the myths that the sweaters he wears are done so to conceal those tattoos. The myth comes in
many different forms, but the main point is that the man on the children's television show is not the man he
appears to be. In fact he is quite the opposite of that character. Instead of a quiet and weak looking
individual, he is made out to be a trained soldier who has fought in battle.
There is nothing in the myth that is true. The man was on TV for over 30 years, and his life has been welldocumented by the media. If there was a hint that he was a serviceman someone would have found out. But
he was never in the service and he did not have any tattoos on his arms, if at all. The Mr. Rogers from the
show was much like his actual personality.
The format for his show was intended for children. Rogers wanted to make it a generally formal setting. This
is why he wore sweaters, not to conceal any tattoos. The show was concerned with education and morality,
and dressing nicely gave him a look of authority. The sweaters were not a cover up of some rough past that
would not go over well with parents.
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
November 2014
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MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
THE LAKESIDE PRESS RETIRED EMPLOYEES CLUB
PLEASE FILL IN THE BLANKS ABOUT THE AREAS AND DEPARTMENTS REPRESENTED IN OUR CLUB
Your Name:______________________________________Spouse’Name___________________
(Please Print)
Address:_____________________________________________ Phone No._________________
City and State:_________________________________________ Zip
Code:________________
RRD Division:_________________________________RRD Depart./(s):__________________
Year and Month You Retired:_____________________Date of Birth:____________________
E-Mail
Address:________________________________________________________________
Note:
Surviving spouse is eligible for membership
2015 Dues – (January – December 2015) $5.00
MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:
LAKESIDE PRESS RETIRED EMPLOYEES CLUB
MAIL CHECK & THE ABOVE APPLICATION TO OUR TREASURER
GENE BENES
P.O. BOX 652
HINSDALE, IL 60522-0652
Members Note:
Your dues are good for one year, January 1st till December 31st
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
November 2014
News from in and around
Chicago
Update from George Ickes
I’m still in Atlanta working 30 hours a week for the three
non for profits I’m involved with. If you think I’m a great guy
to do this for them, I do get paid so maybe downgraded to
good guy. I did take some time off to compete in the FINA
World Championships Masters Swimming Meet. It took
place in Montreal in early August. There were 5,500
swimmers from 97 countries. This event is held every two
years. I represented Georgia and the USA at the meet and I
won a bronze medal in the 200 meter backstroke in the 75-79
year old age group and a silver medal in the 200 meter relay.
I meet a lot of great people, but I don’t know if I’ll do it again.
The next Championship will be in Russia. Here in Atlanta I
swim with the Killer Whales.
The 33nd Annual Retired Employees’ Picnic
Wednesday, September 10th
Bemis Woods, Western Springs, IL
Twenty three people and twenty two geese came
out on a cold, rainy day to have a picnic. The
question of whether or not we were all nuts came up
a few times. But, in the spirit of strong retiree’s, we
had a good time and enjoyed catching up on what
everyone had been doing over the summer.
November 2014
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
Fred Mark, dave Fisher, George Wenrich
And Lynn Heed were there early to set up.
Jerry and Carol Malecki
Joan and Bill Walsh
George did the shopping for the door prizes.
We counted 22 geese in all. Fred Mark was
thinking “dinner”
Joe and Dr. Brigetta Wood
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
Bill Brickman and Ruth Meyer
Carl and Ruth Meyer
Joan Mrozek, Lynn Heed,
Ruth Meyer, Carol Malecki
November 2014
Barbara and Stan Zach
Colette and Don Siegler
Ruth and Carl Meyer, Joan Mrozek,
Carol Malecki, Fred Mark
November 2014
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
LET’S PLAY BINGO!
Jim Dekanic,
Barb and Stan Zach
Fred mark and John Edmundson
Joan Mrozek confirming the winning numbers
Conrad Jay liked his prize!
No horseshoes this year because of the mud
so more Roly Poly! Go Bill!
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
Barbara Zach has got it down pat!
Carol Malecki took her turn too.
Not rocket science, but fun!
November 2014
A little rain never stops Ruth Meyer!
Don Siegler is showing Stan Zach and
Bonnie Fisher how it is done!
Bye all, see you next year!
November 2014
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
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ANNIVERSARY LUNCHEON
November 12, 2014
Alta Villa Banquets
430 North Addison Road
Addison, Illinois 60101
Our speaker for the fall luncheon will be Kathy Ege, Director of
Health and Welfare Benefits. Please come prepared with any
questions for Kathy. Some retirees have expressed concern what
the Obama Healthcare Plan will mean to them. Now is your
chance to find out!
Your Name_____________________________________________ Phone Number (
)_____________
Address _________________________________________________________ Apt. No.______________
City _____________________________________________ State___________ Zip Code_____________
R.R.D. Division __________________________________________ R.R.D. Dept.____________________
Years of service at R.R.D.__________________________________ Date Retired____________________
Spouse or Guest’s full name______________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Price per member, spouse or guest is $15.00 each x no. of persons = $
Total
Note: Bar opens at 11:00 a.m. Luncheon will be served at 12:30 p.m.
DUES MUST BE PAID TO ATTEND LUNCHEON
Make Luncheon Checks Payable To:
JERRY MALECKI
Mail To:
JERRY MALECKI
20W315 BELMONT PLACE
ADDISON, IL 60101
(630) 543–4549
The deadline for reservations is:
November 1st
st
No reservations accepted after November 1 and positively none
will be accepted at the door! Your cooperation will be greatly
appreciated!!
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
If you appear at the luncheon and our records show no payment was made, you will
be asked to pay at the door. Money will be returned if a payment appears after the luncheon
DO NOT SEND DUES TO LUNCH CHAIRMAN – SEND THEM TO GENE BENES
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
12
November 2014
Here is a happy bunch! Chicago Financial Dept. BE get together 9/13/2014
The Haircut
One day a florist went to a barber for a haircut. After the cut, he asked about his bill, and the barber replied,
'I cannot accept money from you, I'm doing community service this week.' The florist was pleased and left
the shop. When the barber went to open his shop the next morning, there was a 'thank you' card and a dozen
roses waiting for him at his door.
Later, a cop comes in for a haircut, and when he tries
to pay his bill, the barber again replied, 'I cannot
accept money from you , I'm doing community service
this week.' The cop was happy and left the shop. The
next morning when the barber went to open up, There
was a 'thank you' card and a dozen donuts waiting for
him at his door.
Then a Senator came in for a haircut, and when he
went to pay his bill, the barber again replied, 'I cannot
accept money from you. I'm doing community service
this week.' The Senator was very happy and left the
shop. The next morning, when the barber went to open
up, there were a dozen Senators lined up waiting for a
free haircut.
And that, my friends, illustrates the fundamental
difference between the citizens of our country and the
politicians who run it.
REMEMBER: POLITICIANS AND DIAPERS
SHOULD BE CHANGED OFTEN AND FOR THE
SAME REASON.
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
November 2014
13
In Remembrance
John David Carlson Chicago C & D, LA Pressroom
Carlson, John D., 77, of Placentia, CA, treasured husband of Frances (Nee
Jagman), passed peacefully in his sleep on August 16, 2014 after a
courageous 3 year battle with MDS (myelodysplastic syndromes). He was
born on September 11, 1936 and was the eldest son of the late David and
Ruth Carlson, devoted brother to William (deceased) and David. Loving
father to John (Michelle), Catherine (Steve), and Matt (Charleen (deceased))
and beloved Grandpa to Amanda, Ashley, Lindsay, Audrey, Matthew,
Autumn, Zachary, and Jacob; and Great-Grandpa to Evan. John was born and
raised in Chicago, IL and relocated to California in 1980. He was a pressman for R. R. Donnelley and Sons
for 33 years (19 at the Chicago plant and 14 at the Los Angeles plant) and retired in 1994. Recently (2008 –
2013), John served as the Lakeside Press Retired Employees Club Newsletter Editor. A private family
gathering will be held at a later date. John’s family asks that in lieu of flowers you consider making a
donation in his memory to the MDS Foundation at http://www.mds-foundation.org/
Louis Greco Castellaneta
Lithographer
Louis Greco Castellaneta, 99, passed away August 15, 2014. He was preceded in
death by his loving wife of 50 years Elsie nee Lagorio. Louis is survived by his
three children Dan (Deborah Lacusta), Paula Pohlhammer (Peter) and Gina (Peter
Coombs); grandsons Calvin Pohlhammer (Gina Budziak) and Cary Pohlhammer;
and great granddaughter Jade Pohlhammer. Louis was a well loved man and will be
missed by all who knew him. He had a deep love for his family, friends, children,
disabled veterans and animals. At his request there will be no wake or funeral.
Arthur Siegel
Arthur Siegel, Veteran of WWII. Beloved husband to
Lucille. Father of Larry (Marilyn). Grandfather of
Julie (Rocco) Cipriani. "A good man who lived a good
life."
A letter from his son, Larry.
Dad passed after a long and courageous battle against
pancreatic cancer. He really enjoyed working at
Donnelley's all those years, and he made many, many
close friends. In dad's memory, those who knew him
best should make a contribution to either Misericordia
or the American Cancer Society.
Dad was a wonderful father, grandfather, and a friend
to many. He will be missed.
Sincerely,
Larry Siegel
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
Bernard Johnson
November 2014
Chicago, Crawfordsville, Old Saybrook - Engineering
Johnson, Bernard Franklin "Bernie" 82, of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, passed away August 8
at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown, Connecticut. Bernie's life was remarkable for his 53year marriage to wife, Jane, strong relationships with his three daughters and eight
grandchildren, and longtime relationships with friends across the country. A generous,
benevolent, and unusually kind man, Bernie put family first throughout his life. His exemplary
character and integrity remain an enduring, shining example for many. Born in Evanston in 1932, Bernie
grew up in Park Ridge. He was the son of Irma and Franklin Johnson. He earned an engineering degree from
Northwestern University and an MBA from Butler University. Bernie served in the U.S. Navy and spent his
entire career with commercial printer R.R. Donnelley & Sons. While working in Crawfordsville, Indiana,
Bernie met Jane Williams. The couple married in 1960 and had their three daughters before transferring to
Old Saybrook, Connecticut. Singing in several choral organizations provided Bernie fulfillment and joy
throughout his life. These included Capella Cantorum and 35 years with his First Church of Christ choir.
Other pastimes were golf, playing with his grandchildren, and traveling with Jane. Long-distance running
was a passion discovered in Bernie's 40's. He ran the Boston Marathon at age 50. Bernie's fanaticism for
sports was lifelong. He was most fanatic for his Northwestern University Wildcats, Chicago Cubs and Bears,
and UConn basketball. Besides Jane, Bernie leaves behind daughters, Julie Peterson, Jennifer Sell, and
Angela Kulmann; as well as sons-in-law, John Peterson and Brian Sell; and eight grandchildren, Audrey,
Lankston, Conner, Bennett, Trevor, Bradley, Nora and Drew. Bernie was preceded in death by his mother,
Irma; father, Franklin; sister, Lynn Johann; and son-in-law, Jaret. The Johnson family asks that in lieu of
flowers, donations please be made to First Church of Christ in Saybrook, for special music programming.
Checks can be sent to First Church of Christ, 366 Main Street, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, attention: Music
Fund.
Bill Kleffman - Chicago BE, RO and D
William Owen Kleffman Born March 29, 1929, Died
September 15, 2014
Born and raised in Chicago, RRD was his life and his
one and only job until retirement. For the past 22 years
Bill spent his retirement in Kentucky, loving every minute
of it by boating, waterskiing, riding his motorcycle,
playing pool and bowling. Bill bowled a 300 game at age
80! Bill was one cool guy and will be so missed by his
wife of 19 years Donna, 4 children, Jody (Spiro)
Salapatas, Jamie Houlihan, Rick and Barry (Sherri), 9
grandchildren and 2 great granddaughters. Bill had 3
siblings, Richard (deceased) sister-in-law, Elsie, Ken
(Betty) and Lois. Rest in peace Bill.
Every Man Dies, Not Every Man Really Lives
William Owen Kleffman
1929 - 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to their family and friends
November 2014
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
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Retirees Note!
Please make sure that you send your dues, spring and fall luncheon payment, and
newsletter items to the proper individuals.
Newsletter Dues
MAIL CHECK & APPLICATION TO OUR TREASURER
GENE BENES
P.O. BOX 652
HINSDALE, IL 60522-0652
Spring Luncheon
MAII CHECK & APPLICATION TO SPRING LUNCHEON CO-CHAIRMAN
CARL OR RUTH MEYER
5658 SO. MEADE AVENUE
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60638
Fall Luncheon
MAII CHECK & APPLICATION TO FALL LUNCHEON CO-CHAIRMAN
JERRY MALECKI
20W315 BELMONT PLACE
ADDISON, IL 60101
Items for the Newsletter (stories – pictures – obituary notice)
MAII
PHONE
JOHN HORMANSKI
13153 SPARROW CT.
HOMER GLEN, IL 60491
708-301-3407
E-MAIL
[email protected]
For the electronic version of the newsletter.
http://www.rrdonnelley.com/lakeside-retiree-club/home.aspx
ATTENTION RETIREES!!!
New e-mail list should be available in the next newsletter, January 2015.
We will be publishing an updated email address list sometime in the future. If you
have provided us with your email address please let us know if you wish to have it
included or if you wish to have it removed (and also to make sure we have your
correct email address). Please send an email note with your decision to
Sharon Kerr, Membership Secretary. [email protected]
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
November 2014
RR Donnelley Awarded a $60 Million Multi-Year Agreement by
Crain Communications, Inc.
Includes Production of All U.S.-Based Publications
CHICAGO, Sept. 11, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- R. R. Donnelley & Sons Company (Nasdaq:RRD)
announced today that it has been awarded a $60 million multi-year agreement by Crain Communications that
significantly expands the companies' relationship through 2020. Under the terms of the agreement, RR
Donnelley will produce all 15 U.S.-based Crain publications including Advertising Age, Automotive News,
Business Insurance and Crain's New York Business. In addition to magazine production, RR Donnelley will
provide premedia, commercial print, international mail and logistics services.
"After a nearly 30 year relationship with RR Donnelley, we knew their production and distribution expertise
was the best choice for meeting our "readers first" philosophy, ensuring our content is delivered in the
timeliest and most effective way possible," stated Keith Crain, Chairman, Crain Communications.
Crain Communications is one of the largest privately held media companies in the U.S. with 24 leading
business, trade and consumer printed and online publications in North America, Europe and Asia. The
company's 825 employees in 13 locations produce trusted and relevant news, lead generation, research and
data products, custom publishing and events that contribute to the success of its millions of readers and its
clients.
"We are extremely pleased to have earned the opportunity to expand our relationship with Crain
Communications," said Dan Knotts, RR Donnelley's Chief Operating Officer. "Our solutions are designed to
improve the complete go-to-market process for publishers — from prepress/preflight and premedia, to print
and bind, mailing, and distribution."
Investment tips for 2014
For all of you with any money left, be aware of the next expected mergers so that you can get in on the
ground floor and make some BIG bucks. Watch for these consolidations in 2014:
1. Hale Business Systems, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Fuller Brush, and W. R. Grace Co... will merge and
become: Hale, Mary, Fuller, Grace.
2. Polygram Records, Warner Bros. and Zesta Crackers join forces and become: Poly, Warner Cracker.
3. 3M will merge with Goodyear and become: MMMGood.
4. Zippo Manufacturing, Audi Motors, Dofasco, and Dakota Mining will merge and become:
ZipAudiDoDa.
5. FedEx is expected to join its competitor, UPS, and become: FedUP.
6. Fairchild Electronics and Honeywell Computers will become: Fairwell Honeychild.
7. Grey Poupon and Docker Pants are expected to become: PouponPants.
8 Victoria 's Secret and Smith & Wesson will merge under the new name: TittyTittyBangBang
9. . Knotts Berry Farm and the National Organization of Women will become: Knott NOW!
November 2014
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
Warsaw
"Nifty Fifty Plus"
17
NOTICE !!!
We need members who
can help with the
Newsletter mailing
*******************
3rd Tuesday of each month at:
Golden Corral
US 30 & end of E. Center St.
For information Contact:
Lancaster Retiree Events
Gwen Snyder (574) 267-8015
***********************
[email protected]
Meetings are held at the
East Plant, Lancaster, Pa.
Please Contact
George Wenrich
(708) 532-8230
1st Tues. of each month,10A.M.
Harrisonburg
Retiree Events
For information Contact:
Sam Girard (717) 392-2319
[email protected]
*****************
Meetings are held at the
George Mavros (717) 291-9889
WOOD GRILL BUFFET
1711 RESERVOIR STREET
HARRISONBURG,
VIRGINA
Luncheon starts at 11:00 A.M.
the 2nd Tuesday during months
of;
February
April
June
August
October
December
Change in E-mail
[email protected]
***************************
Breakfast Fellowship
The Apple Tree Restaurant
2nd Thursday of each month at 9
A.M.
**************
Held the 1st Thursday of each month
at8A.M.
Tom's Restaurant
894 Burnham Ave,
Calumet City, IL. 60409
(708) 868-2600
For Information Contact:
Art Sobczak.. (708) 474-9495
*************************
Bowling Social Event at
Leisure Lanes
2nd Wednesday of each month
at 1:00 P.M.
For information Contact:
BOB BLOOMQUIST
[email protected]
Retirement Breakfast
*************************
Lancaster Home Page
www.rrdretirees.com
Turn in your news items, wedding anniversaries,
photos & news of interest
Please e-mail notes & photos or as a typed or a hand
written note by US mail
To:
John Hormanski
13153 Sparrow Ct.
Homer Glen, IL 60491
(708) 301-3407
[email protected]
SAVE THESE DATES!
Mark your calendars for these
upcoming events!
**********************
Fall Luncheon
Our speaker for the fall
luncheon will be Kathy Ege,
Director of Health and Welfare
Benefits. Please come prepared
with any questions for Kathy.
Some retirees have expressed
concern what the Obama
Healthcare Plan will mean to
them. Now is your chance to find
out!
November 12, 2014
Alta Villa Banquets
Addison, Illinois
**********************
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
November 2014
Do you remember?
White Eagle Brewing Co., Allweiden and Chevalier Beers, Chicago. The White Eagle Brewing Co. was in
operation at 38th and Racine from 1910 to 1950.
During WW II’s cigarette shortage, Maurice’s
Restaurant, at 175 W Madison, helped the cause by
giving out free smokes to patrons - but only take
one!, 1945, Chicago.
Chicago Calumet Plant
1st floor cafeteria, yumm!
November 2014
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
19
The 1950's
Few people know that Mr. Potato Head was almost little more
than a forgotten cereal premium. But history has a way of being
kind to the classics. And George Lerner was about to make
history!
During the World War 2 era, George Lerner enjoyed success
as a well known inventor and designer. Just before 1950, he
designed and produced a first generation set of plastic face
pieces. The push pin shaped noses, ears, eyes and mouth parts
could be pushed into fruits or vegetables to transform the food
into an endless array of magical anthropomorphic playmates.
The toy wasn't an immediate hit however. There was still a
World War 2 mentality to conserve resources. Toy companies
didn't think that customers would accept the idea of wasting a
piece of food as a child's toy. But after awhile, George finally
sold the toy to a cereal company, who planned to use the pieces
as a premium giveaway in cereal boxes.
But George knew that his new toy deserved a bigger shot.
And that shot came in a meeting with a family owned New
England manufacturer. Henry and Merrill Hassenfeld were the second generation of brothers to run
their family’s Rhode Island business. Although their roots were in textiles, they also enjoyed success
making pencil boxes with surplus book binding fabric. They soon found that the boxes sold better
when they were filled with pencils and other school supplies.
Merrill experimented with filling the boxes with small toys
instead of school supplies, and the idea took off. They began
making their boxes into doctor kits, nurse kits, paint sets and
even junior air raid kits. In 1951, George Lerner approached
Merrill with a set of toy face pieces as an idea to fill one of
their boxes. Merrill loved the idea of making funny faces with
fruits and vegetables...and bought the toy from the cereal
company. It was a purchase that would become their first huge
toy hit, and help boost their company, later called HASBRO,
into the ranks of toy legends!
The Hassenfeld’s introduced their new Mr. Potato Head Funny Face Kit to the world on April 30th,
1952, and began one of America’s greatest toy stories. The earliest boxed set, Mr. Potato Head
#2000, featured a package with goofy vegetable faces and says that you could use any fruit or
vegetable to make a funny face man. The original price for this Mr. Potato Head in 1952 was under
one dollar! And for that dollar you got almost 30 parts, all a kid needed to transform any fruit or
vegetable into all sorts of silly and bizarre faces. All those mothers that had urged their children not
to play with their food were now facing a losing battle!
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November 2014
Kids all over America embraced the little plastic
pieces and poked holes in every piece of produce
imaginable. Although the natural creative and
imaginative appeal of the toy contributed to it’s
popularity, Mr. Potato head could credit some of his
early success to the emerging television industry.
Most historians agree that Mr. Potato Head holds the
distinction of being the first toy to be advertised on
TV. It was obvious that the children of the 1950's
were fascinated by this new gadget called TV, and
everything they saw on it. Those early Potato Head
commercials resulted in over $4 million in Mr. Potato
Head sales in the first year!
Middle Finger
Dear Grand-daugther, The other day I went up to our local Christian bookstore
and saw a Honk if you love jesus bumber sticker. I was feeling particularly sassy that
day because I had just come from a thrilling choir performance, followed by a
thunderous prayer meeting. So, I bought the sticker and put it on my bomber.
Boy, am I glad I did, what an uplifting experience that followed. I was stopped at
a red light at a busy intersection, just lost in thought about the Lord and how good
he is, and I didn't notice that the light had changed. It is a good thing someone
else loves Jesus because if he hadn't honked, I'd never have noticed.
I found that lots of people love Jesus!
While I was sitting there, the guy behind started honking like crazy, and then he
leaned out his window and screamed, "For the love of God!, Go! Go! Go! Jesus
Christ, Go!” What an exuberant cheerleader he was for Jesus! Everyone started
honking! I just leaned out my window and started waving and smiling at all those
loving people.
I even honked my horn a few times to share in the love. There must have been a
man from Florida back there because I heard him yelling something about a sunny
beach. I saw another guy waving in a funny way with only his middle finger stuck
up in the air. I asked my young teenage grandson in the back seat what that
meant. He said it was probably a Hawaiian good luck sign or something. Well I
have never met anyone from Hawaii, so I leaned out the window and gave him
the good luck sign right back. My grandson burst out laughing. Why even he was
enjoying this religious experience!! A couple of people where so caught up in the
joy of the moment that they got out of their cars and started walking towards me. I
bet they wanted to pray or ask what church I attended, but this is when I noticed
the light changed. So I waved at all my brothers and sisters grinning, and drove on
through the intersection.
November 2014
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
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I noticed I was the only car that got through the intersection before the light
changed again and felt kind of sad that I had to leave them after all the love we
shared. So I slowed the car down, leaned out the window and gave them all the
Hawaiian good luck sign one last time as I drove away.
Praise the Lord for such wonderful folks!!
Will write again soon, Love Grandma
Submitted by George Wenrich
12 Days of Christmas Correspondence
Dearest John: I went to the door today and the postman delivered a partridge in a pear tree. What a
delightful gift. I couldn't have been more surprised.
With dearest love and affection, Agnes
December 15th Dearest John:
Today the postman brought your very sweet gift. Just imagine two turtle doves.... I'm just delighted
at your very thoughtful gift. They are just adorable.
All my love, Agnes
December 16th Dear John:
Oh, aren't you the extravagant one! Now I must protest. I don't deserve such generosity. Three
French hens. They are just darling but I must insist.... you're just too kind.
Love Agnes
December 17th
Today the postman delivered four calling birds. Now really! They are beautiful, but don't you think
enough is enough? You're being too romantic.
Affectionately, Agnes
December 18th Dearest John:
What a surprise! Today the postman delivered five golden rings. One for each finger. You're just
impossible, but I love it. Frankly, John, all those squawking birds were beginning to get on my
nerves.
All my love, Agnes
th
December 19 Dear John:
When I opened the door there were actually six geese-a-laying on my front steps. So you're back to
the birds again, huh? Those geese are huge. Where will I ever keep them? The neighbors are
complaining and I can't sleep through the racket. PLEASE STOP!
Cordially, Agnes
th
December 20 John:
What's with you and those birds???? Seven swans-a-swimming. What kind of joke is this? There's
bird do-do all over the house and they never stop the racket. I'm a nervous wreck and I can't sleep all
night. IT'S NOT FUNNY.......So stop with those birds.
Sincerely, Agnes
December 21st OK Buster:
I think I prefer the birds. What am I going to do with eight maids-a-milking? It's not enough with
all those birds and eight maids-a-milking, but they had to bring their own cows. There is poop all
over the lawn and I can't move into my own house. Just lay off me. .
Ag
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The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
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December 22nd Hey:
What are you? Some kind of sadist? Now there's nine pipers playing. And do they play! They
never stopped chasing those maids since they got here yesterday morning. The cows are upset and
are stepping all over those screeching birds. No wonder they screech. What am I going to do? The
neighbors have started a petition to evict me. You'll get yours.
From Ag
December 23rd You Creep!
Now there's ten ladies dancing - I don't know why I call them ladies. Now the cows can't sleep and
they've got diarrhea. My living room is a river of poop. The commissioner of buildings has
subpoenaed me to give cause why the building shouldn't be condemned. I'm sicking the police on
you.
One who means it, Ag
December 24th Listen Idiot:
What's with the eleven lords a-leaping? All 234 of the birds are dead. I hope you're satisfied, you
rotten swine.
Your sworn enemy, Miss Agnes McCallister
December 25th (From the law offices Taeker, Spedar, and Baegar)
Dear Sir:
This is to acknowledge your latest gift of twelve fiddlers fiddling, which you have seen fit to inflict
on our client, Miss Agnes McCallister. The destruction, of course, was total. All correspondence
should come to our attention. If you should attempt to reach Miss McCallister at Happy Dale
Sanitarium, the attendants have instructions to shoot you on sight. With this letter, please find
attached a warrant for your arrest.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
The Lakeside Press Retired Employees’ Club
November 2014
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RETREE’S NEWSLETTER CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Year 2014
All Meetings and Mailing Sessions are held on the 2nd Wednesday of the
Month starting 10:00AM at Winfield Road, Warrenville, IL 60555
Newsletter
Month
Newsletter
Deadline
Mailing
Session
Social
Meeting
No Meeting in Jan.
2014
MARCH
2014
FEBUARY 12
2014
MARCH 12
2014
MARCH 16
2014
APRIL 9
2014
(Meeting)
nd
33 Annual Spring
Luncheon at
Lexington House
MAY 14, 2014
MAY 20
2014
JUNE 11
2014
July 9th No meeting
Dwight Plant Tour
JANUARY 20
2014
May 14
MAY
2014
JULY
2014
September 10
(Meeting)
33nd Annual Picnic
Bemis Woods Grove
Election of Officers
September 10, 2014
JULY 20
2014
AUGUST 13
2014
NOVEMBER
2014
SEPTEMBER 15
2014
OCTOBER 8
2014
Fall Luncheon
“ ALTA VILLA “
Install New Officers
November 12, 2014
JANUARY
2015
NOVEMBER 17
2014
DECEMBER 10
2014
No Meeting in Jan.
2015
SEPTEMBER
2014
RR Donnelley
4101 Winfield Road
Warrenville, IL 60555
Address Service Requested
Newsletter
Retired Employees’ Club
The Lakeside Press