2/17/2014 - vhs62.com

Monday
Update
February 17, 2014
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
(Six years of back issues are available to view.)
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Sign up for our Email newsletter.
People corresponding with the MU should always include their complete name
(including maiden, if applicable) and their school and grad year. It makes my job easier.
Hello Classmates, Schoolmates and Friends:
In this edition: John Amarant ‘54 , Eileen Bell-Thompson HH64, Lynda Bingham-Gregor, Ken Bryant ’55, Patti
Byrne-Walker ‘57, Ron Collins ’60, Jackie Covey-Tobin ’58, Frank Darling HH66, Jim Davis ‘64, Kathy DriscollOttarson ’61, Al Farr ’61, Curt Grigg HH70, Carrie Hammond-Anabo '52, Ryan Harris SP/SV89, Carolyn Henry
Young ’66, Tim Jackson ’63, Karl Jacque ’60, Sharon Kent-Harris, Jim Kern-G, John Kloske '61, Helen KulmusZajac HH66, Vicki Leonard-Arns ’61, Sherry Leslie ’66, John McMenamin ’61, Tom Minero ’71, Lillian Morgan-Rust
HH64, Patti Power-Keener SV68, John Ranacis ’61, Jo Ann Richardson-Conley ’61, Art Rust ’61, Gordon Shaffer
’48, Katy Siegel-Korkos ’68, Marty Stiewig ’57, Linda Tholmer-Anderson, Frankye Thurston-Kelly-Carruthers ’65,
Carolyn Vecchio-Brown ’60, Mike Vinatieri and Dalt Williams ‘51
Key:
HH = Hogan HS SV = St. Vincent’s HS SP = St. Patrick’s HS FF = Former Faculty G = Guest
Year Only (ie: ’60) = year graduated from VHS No indicator after name = VHS Class of ‘62
Index
This ‘n’ That ............................................................................................................... 2
The Mailbag .............................................................................................................. 11
Apache Review of Arts by John Parks....................................................................... 20
Comedy Corner ......................................................................................................... 23
Who You Callin’ an Old Geezer ................................................................................. 25
Paperback Writer....................................................................................................... 26
1
A Stroll Down History Lane........................................................................................ 29
Postcard Pals ............................................................................................................ 30
Newbies .................................................................................................................... 32
In Memoriam ............................................................................................................. 33
News from the Sick Bay ............................................................................................ 36
The Last Word ........................................................................................................... 37
MU Calendar of Upcoming Events ............................................................................ 38
Public Service Announcements ................................................................................. 49
Addendums ............................................................................................................... 41
The Fine Print ............................................................................................................ 47
This ‘n’ that:
Meet the Vallejo High School Red Hawks
This is "Red Hawk" of the
Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe.
I wonder if anyone asked him how
he feels being the new VHS mascot?
Do you suppose that the Vallejo School Board sold the naming rights to
the Red Hawk Casino in Placerville..
From: Dalt Williams ‘51
Hi Harry....Hope things are going well for you and Sally.
Well, the school board chose Red Hawk as the "mascot."
But due to their stupidity it's another Native American
council see
http://redhawkcouncil.org/ If it wasn't so stupid, it
would be hilarious!! Also, there is no such thing as a Red
Hawk. A Red-tailed Hawk yes, but not a Red Hawk.
The Vallejo School Board is a joke. It did manage to prove one thing however,... not all jokes
are funny...
I sent this email to Clarence Isadore, Principal of VHS and am awaiting an answer.
Clarence: A few days prior to the vote on the new mascot by the Vallejo School
Board an online ballot asked people to vote for their choice for the new VHS
mascot.
The choices were Red Tide, Big Red and Red Hawk. But also a box marked
"Other" was available for write in votes. The result of that voting was never made
public and I know that hundreds of ballots were cast for "Apaches." Where can
that information be found and who was responsible for posting it?
2
I'm getting lots of questions about that and people are complaining that there is
no transparency surrounding the entire issue. Why ask for people's opinions and
then completely ignore them? I don't get it. Can you provide any answers for
us?
From: Linda Tholmer-Anderson
Well it looks like the board did it again. According to the front page of the newspaper, the principal of
the high school showed up at the board meeting last night wearing a t-shirt sporting the Red
Hawks. So much for voting on line.
I called the principal, and asked him why he was wearing a shirt with the Red Hawks before
the vote and he said that the decision has already been made to go with whatever name the
“committee” had decided upon and since he knew what the committee had selected he had
the shirt made up.
From: Ken Bryant ‘55
Well folks! It’s a done deal. The Vallejo High School mascot is now the Vallejo High Red Hawks. So
much to the School Board for listening to the public, students and alumni. Tells how much they care.
Time to boot their asses off the Board. Wilson has been there too long, Ubalde is useless.
GO APACHES FOREVER!!!
...and so is Adriene Waterman. Let’s see what we can do to defeat them next November.
...
Trip to Utah and the Grand Canyon
Sally and I returned last Tuesday night to our own home and our own bed following a grueling
return drive through the Mojave Desert and I-5. All together we logged over 2000 miles in our
week-long vacation which began in St. George, Utah and ended with a train ride to and from
the Grand Canyon.
On Thursday we made the short scenic
drive up to Zion’s National Park to “ooh
and aah” at the majestic peaks found in
the park. Sally has a real love of geology
so she got a lot more out of it than I did.
Although I have to admit, it was
spectacular.
Layer upon layer of rock uplifted from a
shallow sea. Utah, during the Pangea era
was flat and at sea level.
3
Interesting rock formations called Navajo
sandstone were uplifted millions of years
ago.
Zion is home to majestic peaks. This is Sally’s favorite picture
4
Three unusual peaks called the Court of the Patriarchs
On Friday we attended the first of three
events honoring our former football coach
at Weber State University, Sark Arslanian,
who turned 90 in February. The guy is in
extraordinary condition: his mind is sharp
and he can still go out and play golf.
The Friday night gathering was for the
Coach and his former players at Dixie
College, Weber State and Colorado State,
known informally as Sark’s Boys. He also coached football in Italy and Japan for a few years.
About a dozen or so, players stood up and told a few anecdotes about their playing days.
On Saturday Sally and I went to the St. George Dinosaur
Discovery Site at Johnson Farm which is the actual site
of where, literally, thousands of dinosaur footprints had
been preserved on the muddy shores of an ancient lake
for modern man to find and wonder at the size of these
beasts which wandered the earth around 300 million
years ago, while all the continents were still merged
together as the massive super-continent Pangea. Can
you make out the huge foot print at left?
5
This exhibit was actually quite
interesting and explained a
great deal about how and why
fossil, such as these, are
preserved.
On Saturday night we had a
more formal event at the St.
George Hilton Garden Inn. A
full house of friends, relatives
and former players sang
Happy Birthday to Coach Sark
and then the Mayor of St.
George presented him with a
proclamation and the key to
the city. He also received a
resolution from the Utah State Legislature.
honoring him for his contribution to the
youth of the state of Utah,
Coach Sark addressing the adoring group.
Coach’s wife Barbara, HD and Coach Sark.
6
On Sunday morning we had our traditional Farewell Breakfast with our Coach and many of our
teammates and then we all went our separate ways.
Sally and I headed south to
Williams, Arizona to spend a
couple of days at the Grand
Canyon Railroad Hotel and
tour the park.
When we got to the small town of Williams,
Arizona we looked for the Grand Canyon Hotel
and this is what we saw when we arrived...
What! I’m paying $200 a night to stay
here! We parked the car and went to the front
door to be greeted by a sign saying “Closed
until March 1.”
Hey! What’s going on?! Am I being scammed?
I got out my receipt and it read “Grand Canyon
Railroad Hotel.”
Oh... Railroad Hotel... we drove a couple of
blocks and found it. It was a huge plush hotel and, of course, I was somewhat relieved
I might as well confess right off the top that I was a little disappointed in my choice. I either
read the information too hastily or I didn’t process it correctly, but I thought that the train ride
went around the Grand Canyon. Not so... the train takes you from Williams to the Grand
Canyon which is about 60 miles away. It takes about an hour and 45 minutes (top allowable
speed was 40 mph) and I had purchased seats in the Luxury Dome car but the scenery was
not what you would call spectacular... actually it’s high desert. But they feed you well and try
to keep you entertained with commentary, musicians and various characters such as a gun
toting Marshall and some bad guys who stage a hold-up.
7
When we got to our destination we boarded a bus which took us to two different stops on the
South Rim of the Canyon.
That is one HUGE hole.
Do you see that little ribbon of water about a mile
down? That’s the Colorado River
We spent about half an hour in each stop and then went back
to our original destination where we had about an hour and a
half to kill. The shops
and hotels were right on
the rim so we walked
and took pictures there
and then had a bite to
eat at the Bright Angel
Lodge. We then re-boarded
The Hopi House
the train for the ride back to Williams.
The fancy El Tovar Lodge
8
I have no qualms with our hotel... the room was nice and the buffets, which were included for
breakfast and dinner, were sumptious.
On Tuesday morning after breakfast we got back into the car for our 13 hour drive home over
some of the ugliest and boring landscapes you could imagine. Of course we stopped at Pea
Soup Anderson’s so I could indulge in the Travelers Special which includes all the pea soup
you can eat. In my “eating” days I think my record was 7 bowls... now its all I can do to finish
three.
Anyway it was good to get back home.
...
Upcoming Reunion Info
From: John Amarant ‘54
VHS “Apache”
Please include in the MU the upcoming Class Reunion for the VHS “APACHE” Class of 1954…it is
scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2014. Notices have been mailed to the classmates that we
have on file. If 1954 VHS classmates did not receive a letter please send email to
[email protected].
Harry, thank you for your time, patience, and energy you put into publishing the MU. I look forward to
it each week.
From: Carrie Hammond-Anabo '52
Would you be so kind as to include the two attachments to this email in you Monday Updates? We
are trying to let the world know that we all turn 80 this year and are having a big bash to celebrate
that fact. Thank you so much,
NEWS FLASH - Class of 1952 - 80th Birthday Party
Jullian Anabo asked me to send the following message to all of you:
Dorothy Choy reports an astounding 10 reservations already for our 80 th Birthday dinner
on April 25th - that is 25% of the minimum of 40 to cover Zio Fraedo’s, a very good
start. PLEASE send in your reservations as soon as possible as we believe we should
have at least one and one half times that total, or more. Now is the time to get started as
we are less than 90 days to B-day.
Out-of-towners have begun to make reservations at the American Canyon Holiday Inn,
please note, with my apologies, when calling for the reservation, 707-552-8100, identify
yourself as “Class of 1952” in order to get the reduced group room rate. Originally, I
misread the Group reservation rate code as SMERF, which is an internal code at the
hotel.
9
Incidentally, three disability rooms have been set aside for Class of 1952, the workingest
of all the B-day class, Dorothy has taken one of these on the ground floor. If more
needed, earlier reservations are recommended, do not delay.
Speaking of out-of-towners, Joyce Baseley-Russo has already made her plane
reservations last month from Minnesota. And, how about you locals, we need to hear
more reservations from Solano, Sonoma and Napa counties, please do not wait until the
last moment, let us know now!
Jim Davis is taking no chances; he is making his reservation for 2, just in case one is
needed at the dinner.
On behalf of the hard working party staff of Dorothy, Gareth, Barbara, Lea and myself, all
the best, Julian Anabo.
Regards,
Lea Zajac
More info, including a registration form can be found in Addendum One of this Update.
...
In the next MU I will include an order form and the final choices we will have available. The
shirts will all sell for $20 a shirt which includes a donation towards a scholarship to be given
to a VHS graduate from the last Apache class of 2014.
Cochise
The Henley style remains a possible option.
From: Ken Bryant ‘55
Your idea for the shirts is great. My wife (Nancy Krill-Bryant ’65) would prefer the Henley style. I think
the big portrait on the back and a small title on the front spelling out “Vallejo High School Alumni” on
10
the left side. Just an idea. Whatever is decided we will buy some. Thanks for the effort you have put
in even though it was in vain. Go Apaches!
From: Carolyn Henry Young ‘66
Harry I really like the Cochise Shirt.
...
The Mail Bag
From: Lynda Bingham-Gregor
Hi Harry, for the past week I have thought that we had lost another
classmate and felt so bad. Now, I am very happy to find out that it
was just another one of those pesky rumors!!! First of all, I want to
tell John Ranacis and his lovely fiancé/wife (Not sure which is the
correct title.) Joyce, that I am so relieved and happy to find that the
rumors were "extremely exaggerated ".
With no MU to confirm or deny the story, and no Harry in town, I did make lots of phone calls but
nobody else knew anything, either. Just another reminder of how important you are to all of us.
BTW, John and Joyce, what is your status these days?? Either way, I am just very happy for you
both.
From: John Ranacis ‘61
To: Lynda Bingham-Gregor
I want to thank you Lynda for your concern... that was really sweet. You are such a nice lady . Joyce
and I live in Vacaville we are engaged and happy. We bought a house and have two dogs. Joyce
has three grand-children. I moved my daughter from Missouri to my house in Vallejo. Still into hot
rods and horses. I want to thank you Harry for the email
Mystery of John’s “premature death” revealed
From: Sharon Kent-Harris
I really started something the day after you left for Utah. Did you say to me in that last E that John
Ranacis had died in his sleep? I saw it and asked Loretta and Lynda about it. Then Dick Branch told
Lynda he saw and spoke to him the next week. How did I get that so wrong and start one of those.
""Rumors of my death" things. I feel awful.
Oh, Sharon... you’ve got me laughing my butt off. Here is what I wrote to you on Feb. 1.
Anyway, these health issues are a lot of bull shit. Wouldn't it be better if we just had that
massive heart attack where we don't even know what hit us instead of all this bull
11
shit. SAK, if I die in my sleep, don't weep for me... REJOICE. (By the way, that's what
John Ranacis did... after 50 years he re-Joyced. (groan...)
If you still don’t get it... his girlfriend 50 years ago and NOW is Joyce. Therefore he "reJoyced." Get it now? LOL.
From: Lynda
OMG, Harry. Now you can probably understand why I sent you that email a few days ago. All I knew
at the time was that Sharon said that you said that John had died in his sleep. If she had just
forwarded your email, I would have seen what you were saying...which is NOT what she told
me. Now I see how these rumors get started!! In the end, the good thing is that John and Joyce are
both alive and happy.
And we got a good laugh out of it! In fact, I’m still laughing!!!
...
From: Katy Siegel-Korkos ‘68
Hi Harry- I was just reading the part of the Monday update about not qualifying for 501-C3 status- this
is a topic I know something about. Chambers of Commerce are non-profit membership organizations,
but we do like to get involved in politics, so we’re 501-C6 organizations. Ask around (I’m sure we
have plenty of alumni attorneys) and see if that might be more suitable.
Thanks for the info Katy. I looked it up and here is what I learned about 501(c)(6)
Organizations under this category are exempt from most federal income taxes.
Donations to a 501(c)(6) are not tax deductible as charitable contributions, as is the case
in the 501(c)(3) category.
501(c)(6) organizations may engage in limited political activities that inform, educate, and
promote their given interest. They may not engage in direct expenditures advocating a
vote for a political candidate or cause. Donations to 501(c)(6) organizations are not
required to be disclosed.
I’m somewhat concerned about the underlined sentence since we might want to back a
candidate or two.
...
From: John Kloske '61
Greetings, Harry:
Thanks for the forward from Dann Shively. I will contact him directly. Also thank you so very much
for publishing my piece on Al St John and the Times-Herald article in the Monday Update for
February 3, 2014. Wow, word for word? I didn't think I still had it in me. Add my best wishes for the
best of health for both you and Sally.
PS - I am one of the people who actually does read that first page of the Update regarding your
preferences for information included in messages.
Ah, so you’re the one. LOL.
12
...
From: Marty Stiewig 1957 Apache
I’ve voted so many times for Apache that I was contacted by the Democrats. They wondered if I
would be interested in registering in Chicago,
And what do you mean “Nobody Ever Reads This”? I do!
Hmmm... so there are at least 2 of you.
...
From: Jim Kern-G
Hi Harry,
The Museum is hosting our second annual Trivia Night on Saturday, March 8. It will be a "fun
fundraiser" for the Museum. Maybe some of your readers will want to put together a Vallejo Apaches
team! The attached flyer and press release provide more details. (You’ll find them in the Public
Service Announcement Section of this MU.)
...
From: Patti Byrne-Walker ‘57
Hi Harry:
Got a kick out of your scoop on commercials and agree with you on those damn little kids trying to
sell us a car. Jim and I don't participate in commercials... we DVR everything and then zip right past
all the stuff they are trying to sell us... hmmmm amazing, we can watch an hour tv show in around 20
minutes.
We call it adding years to our life! On the other hand, we never pass us a Budweiser commercial, ya
gotta love'm.
Hope you enjoyed a Nielsens frozen custard in St. George, thanks for finding the name, clearly I had
forgotten it.
By the way, Jim and I each voted "Apache" 12 times on the survey.
Patti, we were so busy while in St. George that I forgot all about Nielsens. Darn!
...
From: Ryan Harris SP/SV89
It's today (Feb. 14) and I'm at the airport waiting to be patted down
by a big burly man in fatigues... hope there's no snapping of a
rubber glove
Oh, c’mon Ryan... don’t be so namby-pamby... after all it
seems as if half of the world is coming out. LOL
...
13
From: Tom Minero ‘71
Here are the pics of Tim that I promised. I am also including the photo that I took of the crypt in its
current state. A donor thought it might be useful if you posted it to emphasize the need for the repair.
I would like to thank the group below as the first responders with donations to the Tim Dineen
Memorial Fund. So far we have $500.00. Let's keep it going! I am expecting funds this week from a
number of veterans
Bob Harik
Mary Adamson ’71
Brendan Riley ’63
Harry Diavatis ’62
David Scola ’63
Glenn Savoy ’62 (U.S. Army-Ret)
...
From: Gordon Shaffer ‘48
HD, here are a few Tuesday Lunch Club photos. The
Tuesday Lunch Group, which would get together once a
week, consisted of me, Dave Beronio, Parker Taft, Sally,
Judge Bill Jensen (prior to his untimely death) and Dr.
Charles Widenmann ’32.
Dave and Jeanette Davis were classmates from VHS ‘39
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Dave, Gordon, Wyman Riley and Dick Payne
Dave, Jeannette Davis, Howard Fitzpatrick ‘61
Gordon, ,Mary Ann Davis-Fitzpatrick ‘61
Gordon, Parker Taft, and Brendan Riley
Carol (Dave’s girlfriend), Dave, Gordon
...
From: Karl Jacque ‘60
Hi Harry,
I gave Sonoma Valley Fruit Basket a call and the gentleman told me they carry the French Feta that
isn't as salty as the Greek Imported. Maybe a trip to the city is in order.
...
From: Al Farr ‘61
The last couple of weeks have been hectic beyond belief, and the onset of the Super Bowl
compounded all of that big time. But all in all it was worth it. Every second of the waiting,
anticipation, pre-game betting ... all of it. My cousin in L.A. and I have been jousting over game bets
for years. This time Denver was favored by 2.5 points, so Cuz and I are arguing over who's going to
give who 3 lousy points. Then Seattle goes in and virtually makes mincemeat of both the entire
Denver team. My mouth was hanging open from the first 2 seconds when the ball went flying over
Manning's head. The look in his eye was priceless (to Hawks fans anyway). But I think that
somehow set the tone for the entire game. The Broncs performed SO well all season, but looked like
rookies this last and final time.
15
I can't say enough about Pete Carroll and Russel Wilson. Both exemplify good, clear thinking men
with high levels of sportsmanship in their veins. Wilson particularly. What a fine young man. Not all
jacked up on himself, he's as humble as a guy could be. Spends gobs of time at Children's Hospital
and other kid oriented charities; just a really great all round guy. Pete Carrol? The Maestro ...
coached each player as an individual, building up their confidence ... while simultaneously building
the team into a powerhouse. It's no small wonder they had a helluva time picking an MVP ....
teamwork was the game of the day ... the "star" system was not at work. The team did the whippin’
as a whole unit.
Prediction: Since the average age of the Hawks is just 26 ... I'll predict a dynasty in the
making. Something like the Dolphins used to be, the 49ers (I'm thinking Joe Montana, and his
successor Vince...), the Steelers at one time. Hawks will hold their ground for at least several
years. A dozen of their players are up for free agency and none of 'em 'wanna leave..! 750,000
attending the downtown hero's parade. Not me, as it took attendees hours to get out of there. Go
Hawks..!
Now just in the last few hours we're getting a dump of snow. 4" last time I went out. My little dog was
chest high in the stuff and 'lovin it. That's really the big news of the week. Now if the Mariners could
just follow suit ...
Last I heard you guys are finally getting some rain, but probably not enough to stave off the drought,
aye? Take care Harry, and I sure hope you and Sally are back on the positive side of the maladies?
All of the rain dropped when Sally and I were gone. If we get a few more storms like that it
would help a great deal. Congrats on the Seahawks... I’m one of the ten people in the U.;S.
that didn’t watch the game.
...
From: Sherry Leslie ‘66
I would like to know how to get a copy of the 1966 yearbook for Vallejo Senior High School. Also, any
idea how I could get a copy of my transcripts and diploma for that year? I am having a hard time
tracking down anyone who can give me any information. Thank you.
Sherry, We have copies of quite a few of the yearbooks including 1966. We have been
accepting free will donations to the Class of '62 party fund for copying and sending them
out. You can request as many as 3 yearbooks on the same CD if you like.
Here is info I found on line.
The Vallejo City Unified School District's Student Records Librarian maintains records
for the date frame on the school level chart in the Locker to the right.
If you need records after the time period listed on the chart, contact the student's last
school of attendance. Contact the Adult School directly for Adult
School records. Information for school site contacts may be found under the "Schools"
tab on the Vallejo City Unified School District web page.
Student Records Librarian, Mary Grant, may be reached at 707.556.8921 ext. 56547.
16
Contact Mary Grant for 1966 transcripts. I doubt that you will find a copy of your diploma but
you can ask.
...
From: Mike Vinatieri
Now that the Lombardi trophy resides in Seattle for the first consecutive time and you should be back
from your Football reunion ,I will offer an update on my cousin Adam Vinatieri’s efforts in the NFL. He
was the NFL’s oldest player this year at 41. He made the playoffs for the 13th time in his 18 year
career. He is very quick to point out that this reflects his good fortune in playing on very good teams
with great players like Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck. I could not find any statistics
on any player making the playoffs this often. The stats do confirm the Adam holds the record for most
points ever scored in the post seasons, with no other player over 175. Adam has scored 213. This
season he scored his 2000 th point and currently sits at 5th in all time scoring. He is hoping for a new
contract that will keep him active for a few more years . He believes he can play until he is 45. If he
does play four more seasons, he could pass both Gary Anderson (2434) and Mort Anderson
(2544) to become the greatest scorer in NFL history.
Adam is still the pride of the Vinatieri clan, but his sister Christine Vinatieri-Erickson recently was
elected to the South Dakota house of representatives. I need to ask her when she plans to run for
President.
...
From: Frank Darling HH66
Congratulations to Rusty McManus getting into the Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame. I first met Rusty
when Hogan Jr. Hi played Vallejo Jr Hi in 8th grade basketball. If I remember correctly, some of the
same names on that team went on to Vallejo HS fame: Rusty, John Marshall, Ron Caretti and Don
Sherwin. Good going Rusty on your induction.
Here a few factoids I want to share about Rusty:
Met Rusty's wife Karen in 3rd grade at Cave School. I think we were in many of the same elementary
school classes and then of course went through Hogan Jr and Sr High together. I haven't seen Karen
over the years but one of the last was when she was a 49er cheerleader back in the early 70's. This
was before the 49er's took off and became a power but the 49er cheerleaders were good, maybe
their best feature in those days.
Was hanging out in Las Vegas a couple of years back and met their son, who was working at the
TPC golf course.
Rusty's mom worked at Hogan and before Hogan-Vallejo games you could imagine the kind of joking
we did with her. She was always loyal to both schools, or so she said. I think she was lying to us
Hoganites a bit.
Congratulations to the both of you, Rusty and Karen.
And back to Don Sherwin, he could shoot from long distances for an 8th grader. Don't know why I
remember such trivia but from far away from the basket, he would make it. Final scores for those
games were typically 10 to 8 or 14 to 10 so even though Don could shoot, guess it was my
imagination as to how many he actually made. Years later we recruited Don to be on our B City
17
League, Liled's Candy. City league was fun. We'd have our B league game and then could hang
around and watch Mansfield, Steinbeck, Tally, Mixon, McCarthy, McJunkin (maybe he was reffing by
then? or maybe he reffed our B league game and then played the A game?), Causey, Macbee,
Reed, et.al playing for Navy Liquors or Cooley-Rioli Mortuary.
Archie Moore, the boxer nicknamed the Old Mongoose, lived in Vallejo circa late 60's, early 70's and
would come out for these city league games. One time I went up to him, sat down next to him and
ask him 'are you really Archie Moore'? He looked at me and just grunted. Never knew if that meant
yes or no. I am sure it was a strained yes wondering who this kid is asking dumb questions. I look
back now and feel a bit embarrassed that I did that but it was immediately after he retired, I think as a
heavyweight, and had fought some big names (Patterson, Ezzard Charles, Marciano, Ali,
et.al.) think he was Ali's trainer for a while... but I just remember him as a very popular and well
known boxer holding the record for the most knock-outs at the time. He was in Vallejo starting an
under privileged kids program of some kind... can't remember the name. I was just young and
impressed by the fame I suppose.
Gail Greig: sorry to hear about her mother but her MU entry triggered my thinking about her brother,
Bob? If he is her brother, I played golf against him in high school. Was wondering where he ended
up. There was no comparison with his skills vs. mine. In those days I never saw a guy hit a ball as
high, as long, and as straight as Bob Greig.
Now that I think about it, that is how I got to know Pat Day, who recently passed away. He was on
the golf team... not sure how he worked that out with baseball. Another on that VHS golf team was
Stu Messick, whose dad had a used car dealership on Tuolumne St. The others I remember are
faces, no names. For the record, the VHS golf teams were always vying for first place with Napa HS
and Ukiah HS in those days. Napa had an eventual tour player, Mark Lye, who was in 9th grade
coming along when I was a junior or senior. Just remember he hit them very straight, not long.
Unfortunately, Hogan was most always in last place at the end of the golf season. Oh well.
...
From: Eileen Bell-Thompson HH64
LAST APACHE SCHOLARSHIP FUND
When all the hoopla started about Vallejo's decision to abandon our beloved Apache, I also jumped
into action to create a lasting memory of our Apache. I have been working on an Apache crocheted
necklace. I would like to sell the Apache necklace through the MU in conjunction with your t-shirt. I
will donate half the proceeds to the scholarship fund.
I am also working on a Spartan necklace to sell in the same manner. I realized there are many
classmates who did not get the chance to experience Vallejo High School as we did. The Class of 64
was the last class of students to go to Vallejo High. And, now there is no Hogan Senior High. A
Spartan necklace will serve those classmates who want a lasting memory of Hogan Senior High.
18
ORDER FORM
(Copy, print and return this form with your check)
Last Apache Necklace, $18.00 each: QTY_____
19
Spartan Necklace, $18.00 each: QTY_____
Shipping 1 necklace = $2.80
Shipping 2-3 necklaces = $3.33
Shipping 4 or more = $5.80 shipped in Priority Mail, small flat rate box
If you have any questions Email me: [email protected]
Send Checks to:
Eileen Thompson
5125 Foxfire Trail
Kingsport, TN 37664
Ship to:
________________________________________
________________________________________
_________________________________________
Email address: ____________________________
...
The Apache Review of Arts
. . . evidence-based Pablum (contracted from the Latin
pabulum, meaning “foodstuff”)
By John Parks
TODAY IS ---- Random Acts of Kindness Day, for 2014. Do something
nice for a random person -- or a random thing for a special person.
OBSERVATIONS ---- GAIL G-B, I am very sorry about the loss of your mother and I appreciated
your nice tribute to her in those remarks to Harry. My strongest image of her is from recess at
Highland -- seeing her hanging up clothes on one of those "umbrella" drying devices in your backyard
-- adjacent to our school playground. I'm thinking her maiden name was Ryder and, if so,
wondering if Ryder Street in Vallejo is named after one of her ancestors? As you know, she and my
dad went through school together in Vallejo, like you and I, and they both served on their class
reunion committees. I suspect she is the last member of the VHS class of '34 to pass on. God bless
you and your brothers as you mourn her loss. JOIE SPINELLI, thanks for sharing that interesting
article about Byron Craighead! I recall walking down Nebraska Street to Highland School and usually
passing him in his school uniform going to St. Basil's. DIANE BROCKSELL, thank you for that most
articulate observation about the Apaches. You fully mastered the art of persuasion somewhere along
the way. TOM MINERO, Thank you for your "gate" initiative to honor Tim Dineen. I am sending a
20
check and encourage others who knew him to consider contributing also. He and my brother, Cris,
were friends -- in the same class from kindergarten on. Similarly, our father and Tim's father went all
through school together in Vallejo. What was particularly tragic about the loss of Tim is that he was
an only child. Hard to imagine. RON COLLINS, I enjoyed your prose about the cough drops. Your
account of an "effortless walk home" reminded me of the day I was walking up the steepest section of
the Georgia Street hill. A sleek black hearse passed me going in the same direction and just before it
reached the crest of the hill the rear door swung open and the casket, with its wheeled apparatus
beneath, slid out into the street and actually started rolling down Georgia street. Two young hippytype guys, both with dark beards, quickly jumped out of a parked car and ran over to stop it. I heard
them tell a woman on the other side of the street that they were he Smith brothers and had come
to stop the coffin. ; ) BILL Z., thank you for responding about the VHS leather helmets! Now I'm
wondering what position you played.
WHERE WERE YOU ---- fifty years ago -- on the evening of
February 11, 1964? My co-worker, Kelly Tueller, was at DC's
Uline Arena – as one of 8,000 screaming fans that night for The
Beatles' first-ever concert in America.
You can see some interesting photos of both the venue and the
event at the following link. (Scroll to the bottom.)
http://www.1959bhsmustangs.com/PictorialHistoryOfUlineAren
aandSiteOfFirstUSBeatlesConcert.htm
Exactly 50 years later, in that same building, the cover
band, "Beatlemania" recreated that 35 minute concert,
song-for-song, minute-by-minute! I told Kelly she ought to
go and write an article for The Post about experiencing at
BOTH events. (If they ever recreate Woodstock I have 4
friends here who could go and then write comparisons
with the first one they attended.)
THREE MONTHS BEFORE THAT ---- I was living at the
home of an English family on Larkfield Rd. in Redditch,
Worcestershire. On the morning of November 20thth their
sixteen year old daughter, Jenny Hunt, showed everyone
an LP she’d bought the night before at a rock and roll
concert over in Wolverhampton. That was the first time I
ever heard of The Beatles.
(Note that EVEN THEN some sign-makers ignored the
need for an apostrophe!)
21
Jenny said they were “fab”!
Here are the songs they played that night:
Roll Over Beethoven
From Me to You
I Saw Her Standing There
This Boy
All My Loving
I Wanna Be Your Man
Please Please Me
Till There Was You
She Loves You
I Want to Hold Your Hand
Twist and Shout
Long Tall Sally
In researching this I encountered a marquee
picture. Note who backed up Ricky Fenton!
THIS ---- song-of-the-week is my favorite Beatles
song -- accompanied by some very nice photos.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xqu9qhBHWNs
The last time I saw them we were young.
Ginny was a cheerleader. Ben was getting
A's in trig. Tonight we glance at nametags.
Around the cheese tray, we say, "Of course
I remember you." "Yes, four years ago.
Things are better now." "No, she never
graduated, moved. I don't know where."
22
We look good. The food is just fine. The music
brings it all back, and we dance the latest steps
across our brain's prom floor. It's all the same.
And nothing is. We're still dumb kids, just gray
and tame. If we had it to do again, we'd get it
right. Some are sure they got it right the first
time. They ask for another Manhattan, dry
martini, scotch on the rocks. They glisten
in their tans. They watch the rest of us,
the ones with comb-overs, two divorces,
the ones who look for lower gas prices,
a good night's sleep, group tours.
"The Reunion" by Jack Ridl
REMEMBER, there are two ways to spread light: to be the candle or to reflect it in a mirror.
John
[email protected]
...
Comedy
Corner
Join the battle of the sexes by sending your idea of what passes
for humor to the Monday Update. Please try to keep it clean.
After all we have old people reading this stuff.
…for the hers… Lillian Morgan-Rust HH64
23
…for the hims… Tim Jackson ‘63
A judge was interviewing a woman regarding her pending
divorce and asked, “What are the grounds for your divorce?"
She replied, "About four acres and a nice little home in the
middle of the property with a stream running by."
"No," he said, "I mean what is the foundation of this case?"
"It is made of concrete, brick, and mortar," she responded.
"I mean," he continued, "what are your relations like?"
"I have an aunt and uncle living here in town, as well as my
husband's parents."
The judge took a deep breath and asked, "Do you have a
real grudge?"
"No," she replied, "we have a two-car carport and have
never really needed one."
"Please," he tried again, "is there any infidelity in your
marriage?"
“Yes, both my son and daughter have stereo sets. We don't
necessarily like the music, but we can't seem to do anything
about it."
"Ma'am, does your husband ever beat you up?"
"Yes," she responded, "about twice a week he gets up
earlier than I do."
24
Finally, in frustration, the judge asked, "Lady, why do you
want a divorce?
"Oh, I don't want a divorce," she replied. "I've never wanted
a divorce. My husband does. He said he can't communicate
with me."
...
“Who you callin’
an Old Geezer?!”
(This feature will appear in large font to make it easier for
some of you to read.)
Why at 80, I Don't Belong on Facebook
When I bought my Blackberry, I thought about the 30-year business I ran with
1800 employees, all without a cell phone that plays music, takes videos, pictures
and communicates with Facebook and Twitter. I signed up under duress for
Twitter and Facebook, so my seven kids, their spouses, my 13 grandkids and 2
great-grandkids could communicate with me in the modern way. I figured I could
handle something as simple as Twitter with only 140 characters of space.
My phone was beeping every three minutes with the details of everything from
the entire next generation except their bowel movement frequency. I am not
ready to live like this. I keep my cell phone in the garage in my golf bag.
The kids bought me a GPS for my last birthday because they say I get lost every
now and then going over to the grocery store or library. I keep that in a box under
my tool bench with the Blue Tooth (it's red) phone that I am supposed to use
when I drive. I wore it once and was standing in line at Barnes and Noble talking to
my wife and everyone near was glaring at me. I had to take my hearing aid out to
use it, and I got a little loud.
I mean the GPS looked pretty smart on my dash board, but the lady inside that
gadget was the most annoying, rudest person I had run into in a long time. Every
25
10 minutes, she would sarcastically say, "Re-calc-u-lating." You would think that
she could be nicer. It was like she could barely tolerate me. She would let go with
a deep sigh and then tell me to make a U-turn at the next light. Then if I made a
right turn instead... well, it was not a good relationship.
When I get really lost now, I call my wife and tell her the name of the cross
streets and although she is starting to develop the same tone as Gypsy, the GPS
lady, at least she loves me.
To be perfectly frank, I am still trying to learn how to use the cordless phones in
our house. We have had them for 4 years, but I still haven't figured out how I can
lose three phones all at once and have to run around digging under chair cushions,
checking bathrooms, and looking in the clothes hamper when the phone rings.
We senior citizens don't need any more gadgets. The TV remote and the garage
door remote are about all we can handle.
The above could be
considered “funny”
if it wasn’t so damn
true. hd
Submitted by Marty Stiewig ‘57
Please send your submission of “Senior Humor” to the Monday Update and, if
we remember, we might just run it in this section.
...
Okay, Readers, send in that little short story, essay, poem, remembrance or whatever, you
always thought deserved to be published and we’ll use it in Paperback Writer..
“Dear Sir or Madam, will you read my book?
It took me years to write, will you take a look?”
Paperback Writer
26
Pictures On The Refrigerator
I just counted on my refrigerator
fourteen pictures of you
Sixteen times a day the door
is opened
fourteen times you're seen
Two times are left
when the door is open
for me to stand and dream
... Ron Collins ‘60
Dolly The Work Horse
Two young brothers looked up
at a horse named Dolly that year
a work horse
used to plow fields
and pull the wagon
for farm chores on forty acres near
The saddle was in place
Dolly stood still
her belly looked big
Grandpa cinched the long saddle strap
tightly across that swollen bulge
Making a loop with his arms
fingers entwined and slightly stooped
Grandpa cupped his hands
and made a step to hoist brother
into the saddle ready for the ride
Again for me in cupped hands
up my legs flew wide in a straddle
across Dolly's broad working back
behind the saddle
With wishes for a good ride
two small boys were left alone
reins in hand
atop Dolly the work horse
still not moving
Two boys with soft shoes
27
remembered the lessons
on how to get a horse to move
all the clicks and tricks
were part of our urging
to get the horse to move
Our legs became little airplane wings
a biplane moving up and down
If our legs could have a sound
it would be like a dragon fly
that buzzed around
if our flapping legs had a sound
The slowly moving Dolly got the message
to walk not run
for this was obviously Dolly's
day off
Not to give up easily the brothers continued
their flailing of limbs
poor Dolly must have thought
these two airplanes were sure to lift
A trot was nudged and off we went
but not for long
the strap under dolly came loose
the saddle began to slip
Two brothers began to slide
all on one side
and off we tumbled
to the Oklahoma dirt
One look at Dolly
she was standing still again
with the Saddle underneath her belly
you could almost see her grin
Her belly looked smaller
than before the saddle was cinched
Dolly the work horse had taught us
a trick or two
She expanded her belly so the strap
was not too tight
Two dusty boys walked her back to the house
their Grandpa acknowledged what Dolly had done
He righted the saddle and placed his boot
against Dolly's side as he cinched the strap
28
Off we went again riding down the dusty trail
two brothers in their same positions on the saddle
legs now calm
content the horse should walk
For Dolly the work horse
it almost became her day off
when two brothers were spilled
their legs like airplane wings
about to give them loft
...Ron Collins ‘60
...
A Stroll Down History Lane…
A place to share your memories…
before they disappear forever.
From: Jackie Covey-Tobin ‘58
Hi Harry, I was going through some old photos the
other day and came across one that was taken at
Franklin Jr. High in 1956. It was a talent show where a bunch of us girls made can-can outfits and
entered the contest.
L-R: (back row) Pat McAdoo, Jackie Covey, Neta Payton, Vivian Banaag, Sandy Mahan, Betty
Ellison, Carol O'Dale, and Nancy Newman. Second row: Ann Brownlee, Jean McDonald, Lucy Short,
Liz Driscoll, Sandy Cooper. Front row: Sue Setterquest and Diana Plumb.
NOTE: Several have passed away. The ones that I know of are, Vivian Banaag, Nancy Newman,and
Diana Plumb.
29
...
From: John McMenamin ‘61
Hi Harry. Vallejo JC had a beard contest when I was there in 1963 and I've attached a copy of the
newspaper photo with us contestants. Thanks,
...
From: Kathy Driscoll-Ottarson ‘61
We are a little over the halfway mark on our Mexican winter
vacation. We have definitely decided to by pass winter next year
and come from December 15 to March 15. Everything moves
slower here, we take more time for each other and some of life's
simpler pleasures, meals become events and we really do stop to
smell the flowers as we walk most places.. We usually try to take a
side trip to explore more of Mexico and this year we choose
Uraupan and Patzcuaro. We loved Patzcuaro, an old colonial city
with an interesting plaza surrounded by colonial buildings dating
back to I think the 16th century and Lake Patzcuaro with an
interesting Island in the center and where fishermen fish with dip
nets , Did not care so much so much for Uruarpan. But loved the national park full of waterfalls just a
few blocks from the center of town. In Uruapan there is a huge presence of Federales, we saw 3050 every day in the Plaza area, but not so much a few blocks away, all heavily armed. I've tried to
label the pictures I'm never sure if the labels stick. If they don't I'll send a second e-mail with
explanations
30
Jimi Mamou local musician who was asked to come to Zihuatanejo to
participate in guitar fest, came and never left. He was active in the
San Francisco area music scene in the 60's.
Janitzio island in
Lake Patzcuaro,
Fishermen fishing with dip nets in Lake
Patzcuaro,
The tasty crunchy little fish they fish for,
Waterfalls in Edwardo Ruiz National Park,
As always anyone who is interested in snow-birding in
Mexico can check out my daily blog for more pictures and information
www.zihuathyme.wordpress.com
...
31
This week’s Newbies
From: Patti Power-Keener SV68
A friend told me about the newsletter - I enjoyed the few she's sent me. Thanks for all you do.
From: Helen Kulmus-Zajac HH66
My husband is Lea Zajac. He should have graduated from Vallejo High in 1952, however, went into
the apprentice program at Mare Island Naval Shipyard in his junior year. He retired from Mare Island
after working 40 years and 6 months in January 1992.
We were both born in Vallejo at Vallejo General Hospital on Tennessee Street, and live in Vallejo.
I enjoyed the Update, and recognized several names from both school and Mare Island. Looking
forward to the next issue.
From: Jim Davis ‘64
I've got a brand new computer here, so I don't think its the computer. I tried several times clicking on
the small print at the bottom of the Monday Update 'headline', and still come up with a black, blank
page. Could you enroll me please? I was a graduate of VHS '64, and know there is a reunion
coming up (that I have to send a check, in for.)
I am getting info via MyFamily web, but also get discouraged trying to navigate around that site.
Jim, you’ll find all of the reunion info for your class in this issue of the MU under ADDENDUM
ONE: Reunion and Event Announcements
From: Frankye Thurston-Kelly-Carruthers ‘65
My father's name is Bill Thurston and is now deceased. He was in the Air Force and stationed at
Travis Air Force Base. While he was stationed at Travis our family moved from Dover Air Force Base
and lived in Vallejo. I attended Hogan Junior High school from September 1960 through June 1962.
We then moved onto Travis Air Force Base and I attended Armijo High School from September 1962
June 1964. My father retired and we moved back to Vallejo and I attended VHS from September
1964 through June 1965 when I graduated.
Thank you for the newsletter I really appreciate receiving it.
Frankye’s father, Bill Thurston, was a highly respected professor at Solano Community
College teaching political science and history, and later serving as a trustee on the College
Board. When the SCC Vallejo Center opened in 2007 it was named after him.
...and Frankye, in her own right is a very talented blues singer.
From: Curt Grigg HH70
My brother Steve, attended Vallejo High, graduating in 1960. I grew up with many of the people that I
see and read about in your newsletter. I really enjoy your Monday updates, since relocating to
Bremerton, Washington, from Vallejo in 1996, to work at the Trident Refit Facility.
Best wishes and speedy recovery to you and your wife. What would we do without you?
32
Hmmm... good question. I hope we don’t find out... for a few years anyway. LOL
We also welcome Cathy Lynne Whited-Bettencourt ’72 and Frank Bell ’58.
...
In Memoriam
From: Vicki Leonard-Arns ‘61
To: Billy Gordon ‘64
I'm saddened to hear of your mother's passing. Doris was my second mom. Your sister Aleta was
my best friend through Junior and Senior High School and I have such fond memories of spending
vacations with your family at their cabin at Lake Tahoe and your grandfather's dairy. My condolences
to all of you.
Doris May Gordon
Sept. 26, 1920 - Jan. 28, 2014
Doris May Lewis was born in Exeter, California to Howard J. Lewis of Tennessee,
and Ethel M. Fultz of California on September 26, 1920. She was always proud to
state that she was born in a mansion, owned by her mom and dad's employer at
the time.
The family moved north, her father hiring out to various farms, working his own
team of mules, and eventually starting his own dairy in Oakdale, California. Doris
came to Vallejo in 1938 from Turlock, to work for a family friend as a Seamstress.
She met William Gordon of Vallejo at a dance, they dated, and were married in
Reno on June 15, 1940. They had 3 children, Howard V. Gordon, deceased, Aleta
Pawlick (Bob), now living in Montana, and William (Billy) Gordon II (Jeanne) residing in Vacaville.
In 1955, Doris returned to night school, and attained her High School Diploma, and went on to
become a Licensed Vocational Nurse. She graduated with the 4th LVN class out of Kaiser
Permanente. She nursed at Vallejo General, then Queen of the Valley in Napa, and finished in the
maternity ward at Travis Air Force Base Hospital... she loved the babies. Except for a short time living
on their small ranch in Sonoma (Aleta was born in Vineburg), Doris and Bill raised their kids in Vallejo
(Steffen Manor, McKinley, Franklin, and Vallejo Senior High).
The family spent their summers camping at Yosemite, Santa Cruz, Russian River, Bucks Lake, and
Lake Tahoe, in a canvas tent, then in a wooden 14ft. trailer house. In 1956 they brought a lot in
Tahoma for $10 down and $10 a month, with beach rights. Bill bid on, and brought at auction a
government house from the heights, which was delivered to the lot in sections, free of charge. Family
and friends helped build the house into a 4 bedroom cabin, where many MU readers shared
vacations with the Gordon's. From 1964 and on, Doris and Bill built homes on small ranches starting
in Napa, then Davis, and then Wilton, where Bill retired from his job as Dean of Education for the
State of California
33
Upon retirement, Bill was inflicted with Parkinson's, and Dementia. Doris and family nursed Bill at
home until he passed in Nov. 20, 1985. Doris moved from the ranch at Wilton into Sacramento, then
to Heritage Park, a gated community in North Sac, where she enjoyed swimming and riding her
electric scooter(with dog on board). Doris loved travelling and she loved yaking with anyone that
crossed her path. She spent time at the Roseville and Stockton race tracks. She loved her grandkids,
and great-grandkids, whom she got to Skype with, talk on the phone with, and got to see just days
before passing at home with Aleta, Billy, and Jeanne at her side. She made it to 93 years, and she
had a good run. Doris will be missed. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, her
brothers Jack, Bud (June), John, and Tom. She is survived by her sisters, JoAnn of Modesto, and
June Ellen of Tennessee.
Goodbye Mom
...
Teodora “Dory” Umiig Massey ‘66
April 1, 1946-February 8. 2014
Teodora “Dory” Umipig Massey, 67, of Vallejo was born on April 1, 1946 and passed
away on Feb. 8 due to complications from cancer.
Services were held on Feb. 14 at Skyview Memorial Lawn
...
Rosemary Maher
May 22, 1921-Jan. 31, 2014
A private memorial will be held for Rosemary Maher who passed on Jan. 31 at the age of 92.
Rosemary was born to Ruth and Guy Headlee on May 22, 1921 in Benicia. Rosemary graduated from
Armijo High School in 1939 and Cosmetology school in 1940. Rosemary married Thomas (Tommy)
Maher in 1940 and they had two daughters.
Rosemary was a beautician for over 40 years and she loved playing golf. Rosemary and Tommy
were married for 65 years, they enjoyed dancing, boating, fishing and camping.
Rosemary devoted much of her life volunteering at Vallejo General Hospital Guild, Vallejo Thrift Shop,
the Elks Lodge, the Italian Lodge .
...
James "Jim" Burtenshaw Jr.
March 9, 1942 February 4, 2014
34
James "Jim" Burtenshaw Jr., 71, native of Vallejo, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 4. Jim worked at
Mare Island Naval Shipyard at a pipefitter shop for 29 years until he retired in 1989.
He is survived by his daughter, Kris Hartman; father, James Burtenshaw Sr.; and two grandchildren,
Trevor and Trista Hartman.
Visitation was on Feb. 7 at Skyview Memorial Lawn in Vallejo.
...
Mr. Buck was the father of my dear classmate Cay Buck-Wiant who passed in 2009 and also
the daughter of Marjorie Buck-Barnett. Our condolences to the family.
Frank Edward Buck
May 7, 1917 - Jan. 22, 2014
Frank Edward Buck, 96 of Salinas, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 22, with his
family by his side. He was born May 7, 1917 in Fargo, N.D. He graduated from
Fargo High School and North Dakota State University.
While serving in the US Navy during World War II he studied meteorology at the
California Institute of Technology in preparation for his active duty service in the
Aleutian Islands, Alaska. He retired as a Commander after 20 years in the Naval Reserve.
He began his career in Boy Scouting in Duluth, MN and also worked in Oakland, Los Angeles, and
Vallejo as a Scout executive. In 1968, he moved with his family to Salinas as the Executive of the
Monterey Bay area Council. He retired in 1979 after 39 years in Scouting. Later he was Executive
Director for the Old Town Association of Salinas.
He served his community as a 40 year member of the Salinas Rotary Club and as a board member
and ambassador for the Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Sons in Retirement,
Masons, Shriners, Scottish Rite, First Presbyterian Church and Elks. He was wine steward for the
Steinbeck House.
At the age of 60, he earned his private pilot license. For many years he acted as a Marshall in the
Crosby Golf Tournament. He will be remembered for his daily jokes and his ability to tell a funny story.
He could lasso, perform magic and blow the bugle.
Frank was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Catherine, and by his daughter, Cay
Buck-Wiant.
He is survived by his daughters, Marjorie Buck-Barnett and husband Bill, Virginia Apt, Joanne Buck;
son-in-law, Jon Wiant; grandchildren, Greg and Doug Barnett, Meg and Teddy Wiant, Jason and
Jeremy Apt, Michael and Michelle McCall, and three great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army or the Boy Scouts of America.
35
...
News from the Sick Bay
My kidney surgery has been scheduled for March 21 so I have lots of time to
think about it. Actually I’m not too concerned. As I’ve mentioned in the past,
when you get general anesthesia, it’s like not even being there. One moment
you close your eyes and the next moment you’re awake again and the deed has
been done. I’ll probably be in the Vacaville Kaiser for about 4 days. I suppose you readers
know what that means...? No Monday Update on March 24 (which incidentally, is Wendy’s
birthday.) March 27 marks ten years since Sally had her heart transplant. I’ll write more about
that in a future Update.
From: Art Rust ‘61
Well, one stent turned into three. Getting better now, though. All unhooked from the tubes and wires
and have moved up to the ninth floor rehab unit. They are working me hard here. Three hours of
intensive physical and occupational therapy daily. I had the swallow study and it turns out my
esophagus has changed shape and that's why I have been having some trouble. Smaller pieces and
careful chewing and swallowing are the apparent solutions to prevent choking. Incisions are healing
well and the swelling in my legs has gone down. Making steady progress. The physical therapy is
making me stronger every day. If I had to be in the hospital, this is definitely the one to be in. Such
kind and caring staff in each area I have been.
From: Jo Ann Richardson-Conley ‘61
Thank you everyone who has had prayers and thoughts for me through this horrible illness. I was
really sick with so much pain in my stomach that I didn't do too much since Christmas.
I had my MRI and the best news I could of ever been told is that there was no cancer and its seems I
had some kind of an inflammation of my abdominal lining. I am doing much betterbut there is still
something I can feel in my side. Don't know what has caused it but I may have irritated the lining by
pulling a muscle or where an old surgery was done and had left a large scar. It shows it has gotten
smaller since my CT scan and my MRI.
I hope you and Sally had a wonderful trip and enjoyed yourself. You both needed a good vacation. I
wish both of you a road to good health.
Happy New Year to all my friends and classmates and hope 2014 is a very much better year for all of
us.
Sharon, how many more days do you have to stay near the Stanford Hospital?
From: Sharon Kent-Harris
I just made 71 days of 100 but that is not in stone. I still will have lots of restrictions.
Hmmm... I’ll bet the last time you were on restriction is when you were 17 years old and
getting in trouble with The Coven. LOL. Hang in there, babe.
36
From: Carolyn Vecchio-Brown ‘60
The following are excerpts from two e-mails I have received from Kay Ashlock ‘61. Sadly, she has
been dealing with a lot of very serious health issues. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers...
I was in the hospital for 16 days (Jan 14- Jan 30) I was playing bridge and was having
trouble breathing. A retired nurse took me to the emergency. That is all I
remember until I woke up in ICU with a tube down my throat. I had respiratory failure
and pneumonia. They intubated me and I was in ICU for 8 days. It was the worst
experience of my life. When they removed the tube after 5 days they still didn’t allow
me to talk – which is certainly difficult for me. My family thought it was funny – me not
talking. I had to write notes to my family.
At one time they thought I had a small heart attack – but probably not – will be doing
more follow up on my heart next month.
I will let you know on my updates. Four different doctors are following me. One for my
lungs, I was diagnosed with COPD 24 years ago – too bad I was a smoker. Besides my
lungs, my heart went into a-fib while in the hospital – so now my cardiologist is planning
on running some test in about a month. I am also being treated for renal cell cancer –
so my oncologist is also following my treatment. It is a fairly new treatment. If you know
of anyone who has had any experience with afinitor (everolimus) I would be interesting
in hearing about their experience. My primary doctor who is an internist – said my one
kidney held up well during my stay at the hospital. I was sent home with oxygen –
which I used for about a week at night. Now I am just using it on a as needed basis.
I am trying to take things slowly – I have babysat my granddaughter a few times, played
some bridge and gone to a few of my daughters basketball games. They coach for
Napa high and are 22-1.
Hope we can see each other soon.
Kay, I had no idea. Our thoughts and prayers are with you for a complete
recovery... and soon.
...
The Last Word…
Remember when I wrote about the Amaryllis plant that Crag and Claudia
Parker gave us for Christmas? This year the plant arrived a little late and I
surmised that maybe it would bloom by Valentine’s Day. I was almost
right. On Valentine’s it had just started to open up. The plant is a late
bloomer... just like Crag.
...and speaking of the Parker’s, Crag and Claudia came by Saturday night
and Sally and I joined them for dinner at Suisun’s Cast Iron Grill. We’ve
been there several times and have always enjoyed the food. If you’re looking for a restaurant
in the area you might want to try the Cast Iron Grill.
...
37
Daughter Wendy worked her “tail” off for Valentine’s Day this year. On Thursday night she
managed to get home in the wee hours of the morning and grab a couple of hours sleep and
then back to Truffle Berries. It all paid off because it was her biggest day (and week) in the
three plus years that her sweet shop’s been open. I’m truly proud of my little girl.
...
If you’re still a “working stiff” I hope you enjoy today’s President’s Holiday off from work. It’s
hard for me to tell one day from another because I’ve been retired for 10 years and everyday is
Saturday. LOL. Till next week... hd
...
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
Mar. 1, 2014
Apr. 24, 2014
Event
Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame
Alumni Day
Place
Foley Cultural Center
Vallejo High School
Time
3:30 p.m.
9 a.m.
VHS Class of ’52 Collective 80th Birthday
Apr. 24, 2014 Presentations, Happy Hour, Pizza... Holiday Inn Express Amer. Cnyn 1 p.m.
Aprl 25, 2014 Dinner
Zio Fraedos Restaurant-Vallejo 5 p.m.
Aug. 8, 2014
Aug. 8, 2014
Aug. 9, 2014
Aug. 10, 2014
VHS/HHS Combined Class of ’64 – 50 Year Reunion
Golf Get Together
Blue Rock GC (West)
Friday Night Social (No Host)
Characters Saloon
Reunion Dinner/Dance
USA Classics Museum – Vallejo
Picnic in the Park
Blue Rock Springs
10 a.m.
TBA
TBA
TBA
VHS Class of ’54 – 60 Year Reunion
Sept. 20, 2014 Reunion Dinneer
Zio Fraedos Restaurant – Vallejo 5 p.m
Sept. 21, 2014 Brunch at Passini’s
Passini’s – 117 Raines Ct.
10;30 p.m.
...
38
Public Service Announcement
From: Ron Collins ‘60
As you may know, my wife Gina is the "Component Representative" for the 32 Dental Societies in our
State operating within the California Dental Association. CDA Cares is composed of volunteer
dentists and staffs who offer free services in two California communities per year and Vallejo is the
chosen city to start the year. Included below is information on this event designed to assist struggling
families who cannot afford dental care. I have included a written "lead in" to the CDA media
information for our readers including a call for volunteers.
CALIFORNIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION COMES TO VALLEJO
Opportunity is soon to knock on Vallejo’s door for those who cannot afford dental care in
their struggle to make ends meet. My wife Gina and I will be volunteering April 24
through the 27th at the Solano County Fairgrounds to assist a large team of California
Dentists who will offer their services free. For those also interested in assisting this
noble effort of CDA CARES for Vallejo, on those dates, please follow up with the contact
information provided below. The CDA provides this service twice a year in select cities.
Vallejo is that chosen community to start the year. Thank you.
Ron Collins
Volunteers can register for CDA Cares Solano County
The California Dental Association Foundation is recruiting volunteers for CDA Cares,
April 25-26 at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo. CDA Cares is a program that
allows volunteer dentists, with the assistance of other dental professionals and
community volunteers, to provide dental services at no charge to patients who
experience barriers to care.
The main goal of the clinic is to relieve pain and eliminate infection by providing
cleanings, fillings, extractions and oral health education to more than 2,000 people
during the two-day event.
To help provide oral health care services to the large number of expected patients, the
CDA Foundation needs volunteer dentists, dental and health professionals, lab
technicians, nurses and pharmacists. Additionally, CDA Cares is recruiting community
volunteers to escort patients, translate/interpret, dispense medication, set up and tear
down the clinic, register patients and volunteers, conduct exit interviews, enter data and
provide oral health education.
To date, the CDA Foundation and CDA have hosted four clinics that provided $6 million
in dental care to 8,081 patients thanks to the generosity of volunteers.
Volunteers are needed in shifts during the following times:
Thursday, April 24, 2014: clinic setup from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (no patients)
Friday, April 25, 2014: dental clinic opens at 5:00 a.m.
Saturday, April 26, 2014: dental clinic opens at 5:00 a.m.
39
Sunday, April 27, 2014: clinic teardown from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (no patients)
Help make CDA Cares Solano County a success! To learn how you can get involved
and to register, go to cdafoundation.org/cda-cares/solano.
...
The 11th Annual
Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame
March 1, 2014
Foley Cultural Center – Vallejo
MC: Steve Mortara
3:30 p.m. Social hour/Silent Auction
6 p.m. Dinner followed by program
---TICKETS NOW ON SALE--$40 per person
$25 for 17 & under.
Reserve your spot by mailing a check to:
GVRD
395 Amador St,
Vallejo, CA 94590,
Pay in person
Or by registering at www.gvrd.org
2014 Hall of Fame Inductees
Individual Athletes
Coach
Bob LaBelle
John Baptista
Demetrius Davis........basketball
Jim Davis...................basketball
Royan Hammond......boxing
Rusty McManus........football
Roni Sparrey.............softball
Cliff Stroughter..........football
Barton Williams.........track
Team
1956 Vallejo Jr. College basketball
Special Achievement
Pat Hughes.....Race Car Driver
1960-61 VHS Cheer Squad
(John Parks, Dick Roach, Steve Gaylord,
Gary Fong, and Mike Houston)
All proceeds benefit GVRD youth sports in Vallejo
...
40
From: Dalt Williams ‘51
On Saturday, March 1 the Dalt Williams Trio will be appearing at the
Sticky Rice Chinese Bistro and Bar
5030 Business Center Drive
Fairfield, CA 94534
Reservations are strongly advised (707)863-7500
The last time we played there a long line was quite apparent of those who hadn't called ahead to
reserve a table.
...
What state is known as the Buckeye State? Who built the Tower of London in 1066? Which Beatles
album has the shortest title? This is just a sample of the questions that might be posed at the second
annual Trivia Night, sponsored by the Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum. Trivia night will be held
at the Museum on Saturday, March 8, 2014. The doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the games will
begin at 6:00 p.m.
Eight questions in ten categories will test the overall skill of your trivia team, with a maximum of eight
people per team. Categories will be varied and there will be something to appeal to every player.
The first, second, and third teams will receive cash prizes.
Each team is responsible for its own snacks and treats. A no-host bar will be available with a variety
of water, sodas, beer and wines. Tickets for “Trivia Night” are $25 per person and are available at the
Vallejo Museum 734 Marin Street. For more information or to make reservations call (707) 643-0077.
Seating is limited.
WHAT: 2014 Second Annual Trivia Night
WHEN: Saturday, March 8th, doors open at 5:30.
PRICE: $25 per person. Participants are responsible for table treats, no-host bar
CONTACT: Jim Kern, Executive Director (707) 643-0077 or [email protected]
All proceeds benefit the Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
...
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.)
41
...
42
43
...
WOW!!!!!!!
VHS CLASS OF ‘54
Vallejo High School's 60th Reunion
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Zio Fraedo's
Dinner at the waterfront
23 Harbor Way, Vallejo, CA 94590
5p- 6p 'Meet and Greet' Dinner at six
No Host Bar
$54 each for the class of '54
Dinner Menu: mixed green salad w/ raspberry vinaigrette (w/ candied walnuts & seasonal fruit)
Choice of:
* Chicken Toscana- topped w/ artichokes-mushrooms
* Pan Seared Atlantic Salmon in Garlic Butter sauce
* Choice aged New York Steak Sirloin Strip Char Broiled
Dessert: Chocolate Mousse
Sunday: September 21, 2014. "Brunch at Passini's"
10:30 a.m. (add $10)
117 Raines Ct, Vallejo, Ca 94591
Please return in enclosed envelope:
* RSVP card & classmates’ info card,
* money and
* SOME WRITTEN NOTES ABOUT YOU. Are you still working? Married? The best thing
you learned in high school? Just what are you doing with your life? Awe c'mon...let's make
this fun! If you're not coming, send us info anyway. We'd like to know about you! Send $10
and we'll send you 'class info' on what everybody is up-to!
The age old committee Joe, John, Helen, Ed, Arlene, Alex, and long-distance Barbara look
forward to seeing you all again and 'catching up' on your news.
Questions? Call Alex @ (707) 554-2713 or John @ (707) 373-6468
Alex:
[email protected]
John:
[email protected]
...
44
Hogan-Vallejo Combined Classes of 1964
Fifty Year Reunion
August 8, 9 and 10, 2014
Friday, August 8th – Golf Get Together
Blue Rock Springs GC (West) @ 10:00 a.m.
Cost: $70.00 (Includes green fees, cart and tee prizes)
Format: Scramble. (Let organizers know if you have a grudge
match and they will set it up) RSVP about your foursomes.
Contacts:
Gary Vaaler
Lynn Ancheta
Vince Pelligrini
[email protected] 707-451-4883 or 707-330-3075(c)
[email protected] 707-648-1663
[email protected]
707-704-8984
Friday, August 8th – Friday Night Social (No Host)
Characters Saloon
315 Tennessee St., Vallejo
Cost: $6 per person. To provide appetizers
Saturday, August 9th – Reunion Dinner/Dance
USA World Classics Event Center
1525 Sonoma Blvd., Vallejo
Cost: $60
Sunday, August 10th – Picnic in the Park
Blue Rock Springs
Cost: $6 per person - minor children or grandchildren free - cost covers
BBQ hamburgers and hot dogs, as well as soft drinks and water. We’d love
to have any side dishes that you might want to bring. (There may be a
parking fee for non-Vallejo residents of about $5-6. No dogs allowed in
Vallejo parks.)
Lodging
Please let us know if you will need lodging accommodations and, if so, for
how many nights and people. We are trying to secure discounted rooms.
Email contact: [email protected]
...
ADDENDUM TWO: Missing Classmates
(Reunion committees: Send me your lists if you want them posted here.)
Contact Jim Tibbetts of the Combined Vallejo/Hogan Class of ’64
if you know how to find any of these folks.
[email protected]
45
Hogan Missing
Alvarez. Judith
Anderson, Deborah
Anderson, Dennis Eugene
Barbar-Marrington, Carla J.
Bryant, Richard
Burrell, Diane
Carlson-Edson, Joan Elanie
Coates-Green, Janice
Corley, Lonnie Jr.
Ezell, Gary
Felts, Nancy
Forrester, Dale
Frazier, James
Fuch-Schmide, Janet
Halabuk, Jonne
Halden, Edward
Harris, Patricia
Johnson, James
Johnson-Sowards, Faye Ann
Johnston, Michael
Jones, Charles
Klahn, David
Kraus, Jay
Lamon, Donald
Lenhardt, Phyllis
Lindsey-Amstutz, Kathleen
L'Heureaux-Radford, Barbara
McQueen, Linda
Morris, Betty
Nelson, Gary G.
Olsen, James
Pangelinan, Rosalia
Parker, Janis
Pitchford, Hosie
Rodgers-Frost, Ginger
Rowan, James D.
Salinas, Irene
Schmidt, Vickie
Schreiber, Theresa
Shatto, Judy
Short-Crowder, Judith Anne
Stainer, Ronald
Thomas-Sylvia, Sylvia Elaine
Thompson-Shook, Virginia C.
Thornley-Angelo, Ida Jane
Thysell, Thomas
Wasileski-Beatty, Cheri A.
Wildman, Helen
Wright, Richard
Vallejo Missing
Augustine-Townsend, Ann Pitricia
Berdan-Gipson, Joyce
Bircher, Janice
Bolt, Richard
Brooks, Thomas
Brouen, Bessie
Brown, Charles E.
Buckner, Patricia
Busch, Karen
Candate-Richardson, Georgia Lee
Cantone, Ronnie
Case-Mantzey, Shirley
Chambers-Logue, Sandra
Cordova, Sandra
Cruz, Virginia
Cusseaux-Chriss, Jean Mari
Davis, Robert
DeMayo, Felicitas
Dickenson-Plum, Jeanne
Dotson, James
Dungeon, Herbert Lee
Elliot, Mary Ellen
Emerton, Gail
Erwin_Steele, Dixie Lee
Fuller, James
Garten, Linda
Gillespie-Brown, Johnnie Mae
Goldsberry-Tamborino, Diana Louise
Gonzales, Gloria
Hart, Steven
Hays, Nancy
Henderson, James
Henson0Leahy, RosaLee
Hollins-Curry, Barbara
Hovis, Dorothy
Jackson, Travis
Jamshidi, Manizheh (Mary)
Johnson, Bonnie
Johnson, Elysabeth
Johnson, Jessie
Johnson, Robert
Jones, James
Jones, Mike
Kelley, Linda
King, Dennis
Lampley-Brooks, Judy
Lang-Kelley, Katherine
Madden, Michael
Majerus, Edward
46
Martin, Elaine
McNeal, James
Mell, David
Mitchell, Barbara
Mitchell, Sharon
Moore, Charlie
Moore, Sharon
Morris, Charles
Nunes, Diana
Olmstead, Munda
Oriate, William
Otto, Irene
Pangelinan-Carcullido, Dorothy R.
Papenburg, Herman S.
Patton-Padgett, Caroline Sue
Pecorella, James
Peters, Annette
Scott, Margeirite
Scott, Shirley
Scriggs-James, Cheryl Y
Shostar, Rosaline
Shriver-Cress, Veren V
Smith, Henry
Smith, Jean
Smith, Neny
Smith, Richard
Somera-Schlemmer, Tranquillina
Stephenson, Alan
Stover, Monte
Sweikert-Huffman, Cassie
Taylor-Clark, Barbara
Thedford, Andrew
Teicheria-Stone, Roxanne
Toney, Cornelius III
Vanececk, Jerry
Walsh, Deborah
Wiggins, William
Youngblood-Neely, Virginia L.
Combined Vallejo/Hogan Class of '64 Class
Located
Missing
Deceased
Total on File
697
136
147
980
...
ADDENDUM THREE: Misc. Info
The Who’s Who of Vallejo Musicians can be found at the www.vhs62.com site.
Please send the names of musicians who have ties to Vallejo to the MU along with some
information about them. The only criteria to be on this list, at the present time, is that you
have had to have been an active professional musician, past or present, with ties to Vallejo.
...
THE FINE PRINT
Monday Update
Publisher/Editor: Harry Diavatis
Published: Weekly
First Edition: Oct. 26, 2004
Circulation: 1,188 subscribed,
(est. readers 1400+)
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 1990s. 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.
Six and a half years of back issues 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.
...
The Official VHS Class of ’62 Web Site
http://www.classreport.org/usa/ca/vallejo/vhs/1962
Administrator: Bill Strong
Asst. Admin: Harry Diavatis
47
Class size:
Located:
Missing:
Deceased:
Total on File:
455
201
128
780
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.”
...
The Official VHS Class of ’61 Web Site
http://www.classreport.org/usa/ca/vallejo/vhs/1961/
Administrator: Paul Wright
Located:
410
Missing:
137
Deceased:
83
Total on File:
630
...
YEARBOOKS ON CD
Thanks to Bill Strong, many of the Yearbooks from Vallejo High, Hogan High and St. Vincents’ High
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 towards the Class of ’62 party
fund. The average donation has been $35. You may order up to five (5) yearbooks for the same
donation. To find out which Yearbooks are available please send your request to
[email protected]
Make your check out to VHS Class of ’62 and send to:
Harry Diavatis
5087 Green Meadow Court
Fairfield, CA 94533
48