RHS Class 0f 1963
|
|
RHS Class 0f 1963
|
||||||||
|
|
|
THE ONLINE CLASS NEWSLETTERS FOR THE RHS
CLASS OF 1963 |
|
••••••••••••• Winter 2007-2008 Edition ••••••••••• Dear Classmates, Sharon Kay Westfall Amick, 62, of Lievasy, Nicholas County, died Thursday, Jan. 21, 2008. Arrangements were by Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home, Rainelle, WV. Sharon and her twin sister Sandra were both in our class. Robert Glen Bayless, 62, of Richwood went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2008, at his residence after a long-term illness. Born July 7, 1945, in Richwood, he was a son of the late Harley and Dorothy Gainer Bayless. He was a member of New Prospect Baptist Church, Richwood. he worked at BE Aerospace (SMR Technologies) as a quality supervisor. A loving husband, father, grandfather and brother, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters. Kenneth “Hank” Smith, 62, of Richwood went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008, in Cabell Huntington Hospital. Born in Rocky Mount, N.C., he was a member of the VFW and the Moose Lodge. He was a loving father, grandfather and brother. He was preceded in death by his father, James R. Smith. ************************ Pat Hanna went to Milltown Grade School and graduated RHS before receiving a journalism degree. He was a sports writer for the Beckley Newspapers and he made sure Richwood High School games received coverage and players were recognized. He now serves as Regional Editor and continues to publicize every newsworthy person with ties to the Richwood community. I will update you on the plans of this event as I learn them. This is especially exciting to my Mom, Rose Gregory Kessler, who played on the RHS girls basketball team from 1934-1938 and was considered a "star player." She is very proud of that fact. The girls team was undefeated all 4 years. As far as I know she and Lillian Funk are the last remaining members of the 1938 basketball team. ************************* The following message and tentative itinerary has been received from Larry Losch and the RHS 1963 reunion committee about our 45th reunion being held next fall: Friday, September 26, 2008: Finger hors d'oeuvres and drinks at the Alumni Hall-informal Saturday, September 27, 2008: Catered buffet, drinks at the Alumni Hall Sunday, September 28, 2008: Non-denominational worship service with some classmates conducting it, i.e., Brent Franco, Jim Rader, Alvie Mullins, or others, and a catered brunch thereafter at the Alumni Hall. We will certainly listen to any suggestions anyone else may have. Early after the first of the year, we will get together and try to finalize it. We're going to divvy up the planning and preparation parts of it, decorations and all that stuff and appreciate all the people who have stepped forward to volunteer to help with flowers, tablecloths, and decorations. Let us know your thoughts or what jobs you are willing to help out with. Larry Losch- larrylosch@wvdsl.net **************************************** The South Side reunion is June 7th, he first Saturday in June. They also have included any and all marines that want to attend for a combination of the South Side and the Richwood Marine Reunion since they were scheduled so close together. They are trying to make this the biggest and best South Side reunion in attendance so far, trying to get some of the people to attend that haven't been there in previous years. I will let you know when more details are finalized. ************************* I want to remind you of the up coming happenings in Richwood: Richwood Ramp Festival- April 19, 2008 Dates for Richwood High School class reunions: Class of 58- Aug 1 & 2, 2008 ****************** REUNIONS- RHS Class of 1958 will be holding their 50th class reunion August 1 & 2, 2008 at the Richwood High School Alumni Hall. So far they have 65 committed to attending. Cindy Holcomb will cater the affair. A memorial plaque is being worked on to remember the 44 deceased members of the class. Any 1958 classmate needing information about the reunion may contact Dorthoy Kerns Glasscock at RHS Class of 1963 will be holding their 45th class reunion September 26, 27 & 28, 2008 at the Richwood High School Alumni Hall. (Tentative details above) ************************** WEB SITES- The Richwood web site guestbook is up and running again so you might want to stop by and leave a message. http://www.richwooders.com/ **************************************** SYMPATHIES- Our deepest sympathies to classmates Arlis and Argil Fields on the passing of their Mother, Madalene O. Fields of Nettie on Jan. 8, 2008. Our deepest sympathies to classmate Ray C. Brown on the passing of his Father, Raymond Coleman Brown Sr. of Craigsville on Jan. 8, 2008. Our deepest sympathies to classmate Carolyn Windon on the passing of her brother Larry R. Windon, of Virginia Beach, Va., on Jan. 10, 2008. Our deepest sympathies to relatives and friend of John Rader who passed away Feb. 15 2008 in Summersville, WV. John was the son of J. Broda Rader who was a Chemistry & Physics Teacher at RHS and Viola "Sis" Rader who a substitute teacher at the time we attended RHS. Our deepest sympathies to Larry and Carol Odell Marshall on the passing of Carol's Mother, Gladys Odell on Feb. 20, 2008 **************************************** GET WELL WISHES and PRAYER REQUESTS- ************************************** LETTERS FROM YA'LL- Great job as usual, I don't expect anything else. My family still loves WV and we still go home for our family reunions. My daughter, Stefanie, enjoys taking pictures while she is there, one of her pictures (which had to include the highway) was excepted for the WV Dept. of Transportation 2008 Calendar, so we were excited about that, my grandson, Casey helped with the picture taking. I'm always so glad to hear about everyone. I have made my reservations and got my time scheduled off, So, I will be available for any assistance I can do to make things better. **************************************** Hi Karen, **************************************** Karen, ***************************************** Judi Fox (King) '64 sending you a note. It is a pleasure to get these missives. They inevitably brighten my day. I have such found memories of my years in Richwood. There are many names I continue to recognize but cannot put a face to and sure which I had not lost my yearbooks. *********************************** Now the real story----i went into a store to get my aunt a salad. they had water on the floor and i didn't see it. -i fell - i broke my knee cap and a break below that. broke my shoulder and the main bone that goes down your arm. twisted my ankle. i was in a wheelchair for some time-crutches after that. im in therapy 3 times a week-that is getting very old.i thought when it started I would be there for one hour-ha- they keep me there for two and a half to three hours. i told them i wasn't looking for new friends. this is very boring-you can tell i have to start back getting a life. i appreciate everyone checking on me. it sure means alot. hope everyone in your family is doing well. ********************************** That's all for this time. It may be a long while before the next newsletter so God Bless all of you and please know that I have enjoyed trying to keep us all together. I have always felt the class of '63 had a "special bond." I love all of you and consider it a privilege to have been your classmate and friend. "We may have years or maybe just seconds, we may have miles to go or merely inches" ••••••••••••• December 2007 Edition ••••••••••• Dear Classmates, I thought my November newsletter would be the last until after the first of the year but there is a need for me to get out one last one for this year. I want to thank all of you for responding to my requests for Prayer for Walter Rose. Walter and his family appreciate all the calls, prayers and good thoughts during his recent hospital stay. It is always such an unpleasant task for me to have to report the passing of Richwood Ramp Festival- April 19, 2008 Dates for Richwood High School class reunions: RHS Class of 1963 will be holding their 45th class reunion September 26, 27 & 28, 2008 at the Richwood High School Alumni Hall. (Tentative details above) Continued recovery to Jeannie Brown who after a bad fall several months ago is still doing 2 hours of therapy 3 days a week. Keep up the good work Jeannie. We're all pulling for you because we want to see you on that dance floor at the reunion. The statement, in your News Letter as opposed to News Leader, " there will be enough clowns there to start a circus" sounds like you have been talking to my friend Jim Travis. Do you think we should break it to some of those on this list that they are in all probability related to either one or both of us?? I was reading your email addresses at the end with given names attached...recognized surnames when I didn't recognize the owner. ROFLMAO ********************************** That's all for this time. It may be a long while before the next newsletter "We may have years or maybe just seconds, we may have miles to go or merely inches" ••••••••••••• November 2007 Edition ••••••••••• Dear Classmates, As the details come in to me I will pass them along to you. I have called several people who don't have email and given them the dates to mark on their calendar. If you know classmates who doesn't have email, please do the same. I would love to have EVERYONE from our class show up. At our 40th class reunion there was a booking conflict at the Alumni Hall causing us to share the hall with another class. This made it very crowded but this time it will jut be OUR class. I have been asked if "THE BAND" will be there again this time, how about it Brent Franco? You guys up to an encore performance? I have to say that was the highlight for me at the last reunion. Hearing you all playing again brought back wonderful memories of our high school years. Brent contact the reunion committee or me if you think you could do this one more time. (sounds like a challenge huh)? Those of you traveling from out of town, who don't have family near by, may want to make your motel reservations at our "Reunion Headquarters Motel," Four Seasons Lodge. You will find their ad below with their web site and phone number. I know it is still very early but the motel will book up fast. I think they have about 30 rooms there. Opps...... I just found out, the Four Seasons WILL NOT take a reservation for 2008 until after January 1st so you will need to wait until after the first of the year to contact them. I thank everyone who has volunteered to help one way or another with the reunion and I have passed your emails along to the committee. I am sure they will appreciate all the help they can get. ************************ Charleston Gazette, Nov 4, 2007 Dates for Richwood High School class reunions: ************************** The Richwood web site guestbook is up and running again so you might want to stop by and leave a message. LETTERS FROM YA'LL- HI KAREN, ARLENE AND I STAY IN TOUCH AND WOULD LOVE TO HAVE YOUR WRITINGS SENT TO ME ANY TIME YOU DO THEM SOOOOO INTERESTING. YOU MAY NOT REMEMBER ME I WOULD HAVE BEEN IN GRADUATING CLASS OF 1967, SANDRA (WILLIS) NOW LONG FOR 43 YRS OCT 7TH. YOU MAY REMEMBER LAWRENCE (EDDIE) LONG FROM CRAIGSVILLE WE MARRIED AS HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS (AND STILL ARE LOL) HE GRADUATED FROM R.H.S. IN 1965. GET IN TOUCH ANY TIME NOT JUST FOR NEWS LETTER. WE LIVE ON OUT SKIRTS OF BECKLEY WV. ABOUT 3 MILES FROM WAL-MART, OUT ENOUGH TO BE COMFORTABLE, BUT CLOSE ENOUGH TO BE convenient. BE SURE AND GET IN TOUCH. MY EMAIL IS sandi196520022@aol.com hope to hear soon add us to your list please. That's all for this time. It may be a long while before the next newsletter so God Bless all of you and please know that I have enjoyed trying to keep us all together. I have always felt the class of '63 had a "special bond." I love all of you and consider it a privilege to have been your classmate and friend. We may have years or maybe just seconds, we may have miles to go or merely inches" ••••••••••••••••••••••• September 2007 Edition ••••••••••••••••••••• I was unable to go to Richwood for the Cherry River Festival this year but I understand there was a big turnout. The weather was a little hot but at least no rain that weekend. Town was crowded each night at the different events and the carnival. I wish I could give a better report of this annual event but not being there, I don't know who was home and who wasn't. One thing I can tell you is that Roger Bunting was present on a trip back into Cranberry on a wagon pulled by mules. A local Richwooder is now hosting trips for a nominal fee. I'm told the wagon holds approximately 15 people per trip. Sounded like a fun time. Bob Smith was the Grand Marshall of the annual parade. The RHS Lumberjack Express was his escort. Bob was honored at a special reception held at the Convention and Visitor Bureau located in the old Richwood train depot. Citizens from all walks of life arrived to wish Mr. Smith well. While it was the 70th anniversary of the Cherry River Navy and Bob Smith had literally kept that organization afloat since the death of navy founder, "Buggs" Teets, there were many other reasons that the life of this Richwood icon was being celebrated. Bob was Mayor, a business owner, chairman of the Board of Parks and Recreation for more than 20 years but the service in which he takes the most pride is as a Marine. Rita Perri was the Grande Dame sponsored by the Rhododendron Garden Club. Three local artists came together to offer their works for sale and display. One was our own classmate, Victor Deloe. Victor creates mixed media, contemporary pieces from found objects. The work at this show sale included memories of businesses long gone such as Donaldson's and the News Leader. He also had polished wood, harvested from the demolition of the old Rainbow Grill, a memory for Richwood teenagers of the 30's-70's. ************************ Speaking of Victor Deloe, congratulations Victor for being chosen for the second consecutive year for inclusion in The Wichita Kansas National 2007 Exhibit. This show sponsored by the Wichita Center For The Arts, runs from Sept 7 through Oct 21. An additional acceptance of Deloe's work was for the 2007 Season of Colors Juried Exhibition, held at Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg, WV. He does not know if he has won any of the numerous awards that will be presented at these shows, but he said that is not important to him. "Both these shows are recognized as having exceptional work. I am very pleased to have my work hanging with the artwork of these additional exhibitors." ************************ This past weekend (Sept 8) I did go home to Richwood and I did have a chance to visit the new businesses and several old ones in town. I always get such a "rush" going back home. Richwood will always be very special to me and as I travel past Summersville, being very careful NOT to exceed the speed limit, go through Canvas past Rader's old miniature horse farm and then to Nettie I get very excited. By the time I pass Spencer's saw mill and down Fenwick Mt. I can hardly wait to get home. Then I can see my Moms house on the hill from the highway and as I cross the bridge and turn on Riverside Drive I just get thrilled about spending a few days in my old home town. I know I am not the only person that feels this way. I have spoken to many of you that have the same feelings about Richwood. What is it with that place? What is the bond? What is the attraction? Don't tell me it's my age because I'm getting old and sentimental. I've always felt this way. I can remember driving home in the 70's wearing bell bottoms slacks with two little kids fighting in the back seat and I felt that way back then. What saddens me is that some of the people I know that still live in Richwood think I'm crazy when I carry on like this and just don't understand because they live there and are already HOME. I had a wonderful visit with my Mom, brothers and their family, cousins, and lots of old friends. I had a chance to see John Nicely and meet his sweet wife and little granddaughter. I haven't seen John in a long time and he looks great. I got to see Richard Hill and personally thank him for linking the Class of 63 to the Alumni web site. Richard has been placing my letters out there for the world to read so I also thanked him for doing some editing. I had the pleasure of visiting a bit with Glenn Spencer a dear friend of my Dad's. Mr. Spencer is 90 and still manages to come to all the Cherry River Festivals with his blacksmith shop. I met a lot of new comers to Richwood that have relocated and love it there and some folks that grew up, moved away and now are back to spend their retirement years in Richwood. Anyway, the town looked great. Some of the older homes are being torn down and properties are being cleaned up. Fall is a wonderful time to travel to Nicholas Co. The leaves are just starting to turn so if you are thinking about going home for a visit, now is the time to go. ***************************** The last 2 newsletters I wrote about the opening of the new Gateway Cafe in the old Lumberjack restaurant building and told of all the renovations they made. I ate there when they had their grand opening on June 16 and have had several great reports on food and service since then. I ate there again this weekend and they had the best big hot rolls. I also had a meal at C & S and when it comes to home made pies, they sure do a good job. I always try to patronize the local businesses when I am in Richwood and everyone knows how much I love to eat so I always hit the restaurants first. I do miss going to the drug store for a peanutbutter fudge sundae and to the Grill or Jacks for a chili dog with slaw. One business that has closed is the Pizza Hut which was located in the Cherry River Plaza. This business closed just before Festival weekend which would have helped their business a little. Local teens were especially sorry to see Pizza Hut close. It was a gathering spot for after school snacks and always did a good business during football season with the location being so near the high school football field. **************************** Word has reached me of an accident involving Jeannie Brown who fell and broke her right knee cap and right arm. Now I have never been one for spreading gossip.....BUT.... I hear that this accident involved an old pair of roller blades and a steep down hill grade near Charleston. Then the next day I got an email saying it involved a senior citizen bus trip to Dollywood and Jeannie falling down while clogging. Of course not wanting to add insult to injury I will wait until I hear from Jeannie herself to get the correct story. Get well Jeannie from all of us. Anyone that would like to drop Jeannie a note, her address is: ****************** A recent donation of $1000. was made to the Richwood Park Fund by Wal-mart. At a recent monthly meeting of the Park Board a variety of projects were updated. A major concern is solicitations of funds for the pool repair not sanctioned by the Park Board. Anyone who wants to sponsor a fund raising event to benefit the pool repair fund must do so with the approval of the Park Board. All donations should be sent to Richwood City Pool, 6 White Ave., Richwood, WV 26261 or to First Community Bank, 16 West Main St., Richwood, WV 26261. All donations will be deposited into a "Pool Only" fund. Chairman Beverly Rose said according to Mayor Baber a Seelinger Foundation grant in the amount of $10,000 had been approved, however the clerks at City Hall did not have the information about the approval yet. ****************** The Richwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted 125 competitors in the 22nd annual Scenic Mountain Triathlon on Sunday, July 8. The crisp and clear weather at 10am was ideal for the start of the half-mile swim at Summit Lake. Competitors then biked for 17.1 miles up Kennison Mountain to the Cranberry Mountain Visitor Center. From there, the 6.2 mile run started and competitors ran down into the Cranberry Glades and turned around to return to the finish line at the Visitors Center. The husband and wife duo of David and Monette Williams of Durham, NC, each took top honors in their respective gender divisions. Tom Wood, from Tallmansville, WV took second and Bill Ulmer of Uniontown, PA came in third. Zach Williams, Nicholas Chronicle Summer Intern. Whew.....wore me out just writing about that swimming and running guess I'll go have some coffee on the porch and write more later. ******************* Roy Moose has his "Snakes of West Virginia" presentation every Saturday and Sunday from now through October at 1 p.m. at the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center. A crowd favorite, everyone's eyes are glued to Roy as he shows the crowd the snakes he has worked with for years, both poisonous and nonpoisonous. Brave visitors have the opportunity to touch and hold some of the snakes. I appreciate what you do Roy Lee but this old girl would have to take a pass on the holding part. As a matter of fact I would have to be on the back row for the presentation. ******************** A new business in Richwood, Hinkle's Discount Collections, opened by Rita Hinkle, recently opened in the old Deitz-Spencer Building, located at 9 East Main Street. This is Richwood's newest business, and the store is filled with a wide variety of merchandise. Customers will find anything from decorative items to furniture to a few antiques, or at least very old items. The owner offers new and used items and also buys items for resale. The Hinkles live in Summersville but are in the process of moving to Richwood. Extremely ambitious, Hinkle hopes to open, along with her husband, a used tire and auto parts store later. ******************** The annual Freedom Rally riders rode into town last month lead my WV Governor Joe Manchin. Gov. Manchin, an avid motorcycle rider, is always very supportive of this ride which honors Veterans. The Governor spent time talking to the citizens during a "meet and greet," signed copies of "Motorcycle Mania" a book distributed to riders by the Mayor and having his picture taken with anyone who ask. Gov. Manchin was extremely generous in his praise of Richwood. He called Richwood a "special place." He vowed "in 10 years you will not know this town" saying that things are about to happen here. He called the South Fork of Cherry River a beautiful spot. The Governor assured those present that the state is totally committed to tourism. I can't wait to see what the South Fork Dam Project does to benefit Richwood. ********************* Richwood has a new Police Chief, Dan Silman. He got his start in Richwood in the field of law enforcement. He went to the Police Academy and later moved to the Nicholas Co. Sheriff's Department for four years. He resigned to take the Chief's job in Richwood. "I felt I could make a difference here, Silman stressed. "My children go to school in Richwood. I would like to see people out walking the streets again, without fear. I want people to feel safer. I feel an obligation to Richwood." GOOD LUCK CHIEF SILMAN. ********************* The RHS class of 67 held its 40 year reunion July 20 and 21 at The Miller & Sons Auction Barn in Calvin. They had a get together on Friday night with lightrefreshments and a catered sit down dinner on Saturday night. The program was emceed by Bobby Gordon and class sponsor Frances Woodyard was present. Judging by the photo in the Nicholas Chronicle I'd say Frances looked like she was having as much fun as the classmates. Mike Brown gave the prayer and along with Kay Sweringen a ceremony was held for the 30 deceased classmates. A brief business meeting was held on Friday night conducted by class president, Dan McSpadden. Lillian Frazer was elected the new treasurer. Photos were taken by Rhonda Williams of Memory Lane Photography in Calvin. To see pictures of this event go to the Alumni web site and click on the class of 67. ********************* The RHS class of 57 held its 50 year reunion with approximately 67 graduates and 45 guests attending at the Alumni Hall. Ralph Johnson, a former teacher, was the guest of honor. The class produced a unique yearbook that contains stories from 81 class members detailing what each had done with their life. Each biography featured a picture from the 57 yearbook and in some cases, a current photo. In another first-of-its-kind, a recording of the class talking about their high school years is to be sent to the American Folklife Center in the Library of Congress where it will become part of an oral history of the nation. To see the class picture and some great snapshots of this event go to the Alumni web site and click on the class of 57. ********************* Speaking of reunions, I just received word from our reunion committee that the date for our class of 63 reunion is Friday Sept 26 and Saturday Sept 27, 2008. The Richwood High School Alumni Hall has been reserved for us that weekend. I will pass along any details as I get them but in the mean time this will give you time to make plans to attend. ********************** It is that time of year again when I have been ask to mention The Richwood Cemetery Fund, Box 548, Richwood, WV 26261. All money sent to this fund is used to help maintain and up keep on the cemetery. I urge anyone who has family buried there to please help support this fund. **************************** I want to remind you of the following happenings in Richwood: October 7-13 2007-Mountain Color Arts Festival. This week long event in Richwood with an arts show in the upstairs of City Hall. Event ends with Heritage Day. October 13 2007-Heritage Day takes place in town with and Arts and Crafts festival, lots of demonstrations, apple butter and apple cider making and more. October 20 2007-Bridge Day over the New River Gorge. More than 200,000 people converge over the course of the day to take part of the day long festival. You can read more and get information by visiting the official web site at: www.wvbridgeday.com Dates for Richwood High School class reunions: Sept 26 & 27- Class of 63 - See details below under REUNIONS ****************** REUNIONS- RHS Class of 1963 will be holding their 45th class reunion September 26-27, 2008 at the Richwood High School Alumni Hall. ************************** WEB SITES- The new updated RHS Alumni site http://www.richwoodalumni.org The Richwood web site guestbook is up and running again so you might want to stop by and leave a message. http://www.richwooders.com/ **************************************** SYMPATHIES- Our deepest sympathies to the family of classmate Larry "Potlicker" Williams on the loss of his mother Loretta on July 17. Our deepest sympathies to the Deitz family on the loss of Betsy Deitz Carlin Aug 21. ******************************************* GET WELL WISHES and PRAYER REQUESTS- Classmate Jeannie Brown who is mending from her accident. Classmate Tom McQuade for recent surgery Jean Judy Carolyn Heltzel Bill Boblett Gary Cumberledge for recent surgery LETTERS FROM YA'LL- We had our 20 year reunion last weekend and had a blast. I have not had as much fun in years. We stayed out until 3 AM on Friday night and 4 AM on Saturday night! Each night we spent a few hours at the Alumni Hall, a few more at the Pool Room, and then an early morning swim at the falls to wake everybody up! We all thought that we were old but found out that we are still 18! **************************************** Hey Karen We had a wonderful class/reunion few weeks ago (July 20-21/'07)... The BEST we have had yet~!!!.... such a lovely place where we had it--- & the FOOD~!! was scrumptious....take a look when you have time at our group picture --http://www.richwoodalumni.org/pages/Class1967.html. I want to add more pix in next few days... catch me later, Arlene Vogel Hobson (67)
**************************************** Karen .......The festival was great this year and Richwood was packed every nite till 11p.m. There were a lot of people in town for class reunions that weekend also. Ask Roger Bunting about our trip back into the cranberry glades on a wagon pulled by mules we had a lot of fun. ***************************************** To all of those who may have had Mrs. Carolyn Heltzel as a teacher in Richwood Jr. High or just know her from living her in Richwood. She is someone who needs your prayers now. She and some friends were on a fun trip in the Amish Country in Ohio and she got really sick, they took her to small community hospital and they said she could be better treated in Canton, which is a much larger hospital. They transferred her and there they found that she had a Bacterial infection and she is in the ICU unit, her blood pressure is out of control and today her sister called and said she is much worse, it is in her blood stream and she also has pneumonia *********************************** Dear Karen, *********************************** Karen please print this in your newsletter for the Cumberledges. Hi there, Gary is in the hospital, recuperating from lung resection on Wednesday. Found spot on left lung that they did biopsy on last Tuesday. Punctured and collapsed the lung in the process of the biopsy...put him on chest tube. Path report showed cancer and the puncture wouldn't seal up. Took him from local hospital to Christiana Delaware via ambulance on Monday, tests, tests, tests on Tuesday and removed upper left lobe of left lung on Wed. Had a touchy situation for a while, PET scan showed another suspicious lymph node on OUTSIDE of the lung that had to be checked on before surgery could proceed. It showed no cancer cells, so dr was able to go ahead with the thoracotomy.... removed part of one rib to gain access so he is quite sore from that. He is feeling pretty good, was up walking (if you wanna call it that) the next day; eating regular meals and chomping at the bit to get all the tubes and wires out and get home. We have plenty of support. Prayers from everyone that knew seem to have helped immensely, somebody UP THERE was in our corner, definitely. Hopefully, he will be able to head home first of week. Dr not sure if he will need chemo so Please PRAY FOR HIM and please have your regular dr checkups....that's what discovered this one. Gary quit smoking 12 years ago and it took this long for the mess to form in his lung. I quit 18 years ago and have annual x-rays and, so far, in good shape. Don't let this happen to anyone else you know. As many of you know,.....this is HARD to handle. Without the support of our many friends in this area, as well as around the country, we have come this far and plan to go all the way forward. Sorry to ramble on, but it has a calming effect on me to "talk it out" in print.....thanks for listening to me. Jan Cumberledge •••••••••••••••••••••• August 2007 Edition •••••••••••••••••••••• Dear Classmates, Thanks to everyone that sent comments and suggestions for dates for our 45th class reunion next year. I have sent them to the reunion committee for their review. I also pasted a few into the messages at the end of this letter. I can tell you suggestions for dates have been limited to July, Aug and Oct. As soon as I hear anything "official" I'll pass it along for all to see. I do know the reunion will be held in Richwood and not Summersville and they are still leaning toward the last weekend in Sept. or the first weekend in Oct. The first sale of their siding product came with the renovation now in progress of the old WaterGate Inn, renamed Richwood Inn, currently owned by a Washington, DC resident, Andreas Karas, head of an investment firm. This siding is being used on the front entrance way section of the building. To learn more about this new Richwood business and the unique product of the company check out the website at http://www.rusticpoplarheritage.com or phone 304-846-4658. Deitz commented on the amount of "for sale" signs around the area. He noted many people in urban areas are looking for a more peaceful setting, a slower paced, restful area to live, such as offered in Nicholas County, and particularly the Richwood area. Deitz served as Director of Tourism under Gov. Arch Moore and he was in charge of the "Almost Heaven" promotional campaign for the state. He stresses, "We hope to have a good economic impact on Richwood. We hope to work on projects that will draw on out-of-state investors and buyers to the area. We intend to work with other agencies including the financial component of the business. Woodbine Properties will be a full service real estate agency. I feel we can bring business here." Tim Curtis is a licensed real estate agent in Texas. He and his wife Kelly relocated to Richwood two years ago and make their residence above the business of Woodbine Properties and own the building which was renovated by the late Tom Hill. Deitz and Curtis are currently working on a website and taking pictures of property to post online. Currently anyone wishing to use the service of Woodbine Properties may reach John Deitz at his cell number 304-546-2345, or by email at WoodbineWV@hotmail.com Tim Curtis can be reached at 304-846-6679. August 5 through August 11, 2007, Cherry River Festival with the Fireman's Parade on Friday night Aug 10th and the Grande Parade Saturday Aug 11th. August 18 2007- CCC Reunion will take place at Woodbine (CCC Camp during the depression). Former CCC workers and friends will gather about noon to talk about the old days, share memorabilia, good times and great food. October 7-13 2007- Mountain Color Arts Festival. This week long event in Richwood with an arts show in the upstairs of City Hall. Event ends with Heritage Day. October 13 2007- Heritage Day takes place in town with and Arts and Crafts festival, lots of demonstrations, apple butter and apple cider making and more. October 20 2007- Bridge Day over the New River Gorge. More than 200,000 people converge over the course of the day to take part of the day long festival. You can read more and get information by visiting the official web site at: www.wvbridgeday.com
****************** Contact: Shirley Westfall Cunningham, 40 Weber St., Richwood, WV 26261 The Richwood web site guestbook is up and running again so you might want to **************************************** **************************************** The fall gets to be a rather busy time with school (I am still working) and all of the other activities that pick up once school starts although they aren't school related. Where will we have this event and will we have it catered as before? Honestly, our mini-reunion in Rock Hill was the best.....I liked ordering my food if I got hungry and the same with a drink. And I think everyone had a fantastic time. You did a great job, Karen. Let me know what's going on with the reunion. I haven't missed one yet but a lot of that is due to having it before school starts, etc. I'll do my best to be there and to help with anything you need me to help with. Love ya That's all for this time. It may be a long while before the next newsletter so God Bless all of you and please know that I have enjoyed trying to keep us all together. I have always felt the class of '63 had a "special bond." I love all of you and consider it a privilege to have been your classmate and friend. "We may have years or maybe just seconds, we may have miles to go or merely inches" ••••••••••••••••••••••• July 2007 Edition ••••••••••••••••••••••• Dear Classmates, CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? Next year will be our 45th class reunion. I have been ask to float these dates for the reunion past you online classmates for your opinion. October 3rd & 4th 2008 in Richwood? Think about those dates and get back to me with your thoughts as soon as possible. Would these dates work for most of you? The mail I receive from you will then be collectively passed along to the reunion committee. I know your suggestions will be appreciated. We were a graduating class of about 168 but from the very first reunion we had in 1973, they have always included those that started Freshman year, but for one reason or another may have not graduated with us. This brought our total to about 252. Out of that 252 about 60 of you get this online newsletter. That means we are going to have to "snail mail" the other 192 classmates. It was hard keeping up with everyone over the years. In 2002 Susie decided she was going to locate EVERYONE for the 2003 reunion and a big effort was made to contact friends, relatives, old neighbors or any connection possible to get an address for classmates that were "lost." Susie had a lot of connections through RHS where she worked, and I even remember her telling me of an incident when she ran into a guy in Walmart in Summersville that knew someone that was a relative of someone that could get her an address of a missing classmate. Sharon Conley put all these addresses on a disk and we are going to need to update that list ASAP. So even if your address is the same, let me know if you know of any other classmate that have moved. Also, how many classmates that get this letter still live in or around Richwood? If you do now is not the time to be shy. I am sure the committee could use your help for our 45th reunion. ******************************************************** It is with It is with deepest regret and sorrow that I again report the passing of a dear classmate, Carl Dixon Collins, 62, of Craigsville, Nicholas County died Monday, June 11, 2007, in Summersville Memorial Hospital. Born September 28, 1944, at Plymouth, NC, he was a son of the late Ora O. and Sadie Hanna Collins. He was preceded in death by an infant brother. ****************************************************** At RHS four trips were arranged for 2007 Richwood High School seniors to visit and compare campuses of schools of higher learning. This gave the students a chance to explore future options. They visited WVU in Morgantown, Marshall U in Huntington, U of Charleston and Fairmont State U. Students were afforded an opportunity to tour these individual schools, often being granted admission ****************************************************** Graduation for Richwood High School was held this month with 103 graduating. Principle Bill Hutchinson welcomed the standing room only crowd of family and friends on hand to support the graduates. Mr. Hutchison said he was very proud of the students at RHS. He presented a special award to Valedictorian Marie Barrett and Salutatorian Gwynne Johnson. The Principal went on to explain just how close to the overall grades of the students in the top 10 of this graduating class had been. Six of the top 10 achieved a 99% average in English. In history, three students scored 99%, science four students were in a "dead heat" for the top average and for math again four students excelled with a close race for the top spot. Valedictorian Marie Barrett gave thanks and paid tribute to all the people who needed to be thanked for helping the graduates reach this point in their lives. With tears in her voice, she spoke of Susie Carter, and the influence this exceptional instructor had on her life. A tea followed the commencement ceremony in the RHS Cafeteria where all in attendance were invited to say good-bye to these students who were leaving the RHS student body. **************************************************** It is that time of year again when I have been ask to mention The Richwood Cemetery Fund, Box 548, Richwood, WV 26261. All money sent to this fund is used to help maintain and up keep on the cemetery. I urge anyone who has family buried there to please help support this fund. ***************************************************** I was in Richwood last weekend and the weather was beautiful. I stayed at the Four Seasons Motel and slept with the window open and the air conditioning off. I love to go home this time of year when everything is so green and fresh. I walked along the falls behind the back of the motel and took pictures and remembered as a young girl riding my bike there from Riverside Dr. to swim. The motel was full that weekend with lots of guys that looked to me to be a "male bonding fishing weekend." It just so happened that the weekend I was home was the "grand opening" of the new Gateway Cafe which is located in the old Lumberjack Dairy Bar in Dain. I walked in to get a cup of coffee and because it was their grand opening they had a buffet set up and everything was "free." They even had a big cake on the counter with Best Wishes written on it. I had a few cups of coffee and some appetizer items from the buffet, left a tip, and walked out wishing the new owner much success. A look at the renovations of the old Watergate Motel left me a little discouraged that they were going to be able to get opened as early as everyone had been reporting. There is still much to do there and if they are opened by August it would be a real push. The sad part is that another motel is needed from May-Sept but after that I doubt that there is enough tourism to sustain a second motel. I am sorry they didn't get opened for the summer months. Main Street looked clean and even though most all the stores are closed, some still have beautiful displays in the windows. I felt this looked so much better than driving through town and seeing boarded up or paper covered windows. Planting had been done in the empty space of the old city hall and the sculpture garden looked well cared for. There were a lot of youth in the town and young people with strollers pushing babies. I wondered what these kids do for a living and how they occupy their time with no movie, bowling alley or GRILL left in town? Now at my age I should have enjoyed seeing shirtless guys, so call me a prude, but the biggest thing that distressed me about riding through town was seeing boys bare chested with shirts slung over their shoulders walking in the city. I wanted to yell out the window "put your shirt on." I don't think I can ever remember ANYONE along Main or Oakford with no shirt on unless they were in their own yard and then I don't think they even did that. Ol well times change and I guess I need to lighten up a bit, but that bothered me. I stopped in to C & S and had a pepperoni roll (should have just smeared the thing on my hips) but saw Karen McClung and her mother Audra, Daisy Degroio (?) and of course classmate Howard Bailey who must rent a stool in there because I always see Howard in there when I go home. The Cherry River Plaza area was buzzing because that is where all the action seems to be these days. The parking lot was packed not only because of the stores, but that is where the Knights of Columbus Hall is located and the wedding reception I attended was held there. They had about 200 guests and I had a chance to see so many old friends. Just a warning for anyone who might be going to Richwood soon and planning to go to the Glades area. My cousin from Huntington, a photographer who came to shoot pictures of the wedding, decided he would go to the Glades Saturday morning. He has a keen interest in flowers and wildlife and thought he could get in a few pictures before his duties at the wedding. As he got down a ways on the boardwalk he saw a bear cub and knew that Mom would be near by and sure enough she was. He took off running (without any pictures I might add) and got back to his car safely. We later learned from my brother there is a Mom with 2 cubs running around up there so be warned if you plan to sight see up that way. ******************************************************* The 13th annual Southside Reunion was held at the Richwood Middle School cafeteria this month with 63 people attending. This is an annual gathering of anyone who ever lived on the southside area of the city. Former residents arrived from NC, MD, SC, PA and VA as well as the local residents. One person who could be described as one of the "Grande Dames" of present day Southside, Waneta Facemire, probably knew more people in attendance than any other. Waneta has live at the same house on McCarty Road for 67 years, moving there to raise a family in 1940. Ellen Whitney, Christine Wilfong and Goldie Webb have been three of the people who have held this reunion together over the years. Webb has been the person who registered all the guests, but this year was absent due to health reasons and was greatly missed. This will be the last year Whitney and Wilfong will co-chair the event and the chores will be taken over by the Shaver family, our own Peggy, her brothers William "Bub" and James "Beardy" and sister Edna. It appears the reunion has been left in good hands. Chairwoman Peggy Shaver Beckett announced she would like for each person to bring an auction item for next year. This planned auction will be a venue for raising the funds needed to stage the reunion. The 2008 Southside reunion will be held June 7 at the Richwood Middle School. ***************************************************** Golfers from all over the state participated in the Cherry Hill Memorial Tournament on Saturday, June 9 and Sunday, June 10. The two day tournament consisted of an 18 hole round on each day for a 36 home final score. The golfers were divided into flights based on handicap and seniority. The first flight was won by Dennis Vass, 152, second was Rock Moyer, 153, third Ernie Williams, 154 and Craig Brake and Jerry Hickman tied for forth at 155. The second flight was won by Bob Thomas, 164, second was Fred Perez, 167, third Bun Lindsey, 168, fourth Steve Gawthrop 172. In the senior flight, Billy Lane defended his championship and won his second senior title in a row by shooting a solid 72 for a 144. Ed Lothers and Don Jones Sr shared second at 155 Hinkle Mountain resident Scott Bailey took third with 156. Cherry Hill Club professional Mark Sims gave out the awards to the top 4 in each division and thanked all of the golfers and said it has been a very successful year and the tournament was a great revenue producer for CHCC. Sims also commented on how great it is to see young people, mentioning Marshall's Josh Boswell and WVWC's Josh Arbaugh involved in the sport and noted that the young guys will keep the sport alive. Cherry Hill Country Club welcomes visitors and golfers of all ages and ability levels to come and play the course. (I don't think they mean me. I know the greens keeper would rather I not come) *************************************************** A donation for the repair of the city pool in the amount of $1000 has been received and deposited in the newly opened account at First Community Bank where all pool repair funds will be deposited. An internet contact has been established for pool information and the address is richwoodcitypool@gmail.com The pool committee is applying for a federal grant to repair the pool and the first step is to submit paperwork to Historical Preservation to receive accreditation. Bids are being solicited to repair the roof on the bathhouse. Estimates received to date are around $4000. The pump house roof also need replaced. Donations for the repair of the pool should be made payable to Richwood City Pool, 8 White Ave, Richwood, WV 26261. *************************************************** I want to remind you of the following happenings in Richwood: July 8th 2007, 21st Annual Scenic Mountain Triathlon. Free T-Shirts for all Racers. Pre-Race Pasta dinner- July 7th, 6:00 to 8:00pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Richwood. Free for competitors; guests $6.00; children 5 and under free. Cookout Following the Race free for all paid competitors. Race Course Description: RACE REGISTRATION: Awards: Sponsored By: The Richwood Area Chamber of Commerce and held in the beautiful Monongahela National Forest. Sanctioned By: USA Triathlon, the governing body for The Sport of Triathlon, Duathlon, and Multi-Sport Events. For complete information visit: http://www.richwoodwv.com/triathlon.asp August 5 through August 11, 2007, Cherry River Festival with the Fireman's Parade on Friday night Aug 10th and the Grande Parade Saturday Aug 11th. August 18 2007- CCC Reunion will take place at Woodbine (CCC Camp during the depression). Former CCC workers and friends will gather about noon to talk about the old days, share memorabilia, good times and great food. October 7-13 2007- Mountain Color Arts Festival. This week long event in Richwood with an arts show in the upstairs of City Hall. Event ends with Heritage Day. October 13 2007- Heritage Day take place in town with and Arts and Crafts festival, lots of demonstrations, apple butter and apple cider making and more. October 20 2007- Bridge Day over the New River Gorge. More than 200,000 people converge over the course of the day to take part of the day long festival. You can read more and get information by visiting the official web site at: www.wvbridgeday.com Dates for class reunions: CORRECTION- Last time I reported that Cheryl Bennett Spencer (class of 84) was selling T-shirts imprinted with the message "You Can't Hide Your RICHWOOD PRIDE" and of the money from the sale of these shirts will be donated to the Richwood swimming pool repair. Her email address crbspencer@yahoo.com. Anyone who would like to purchase a shirt send name, address and unisex shirt size with $15 plus $3 shipping payable to Cheryl Bennett Spencer, 6333 Lear Nagle Rd., North Ridgeville, OH 44039. Check notation re: City of Richwood Pool Fund. Her phone # is 440-352-0257 or 440-227-5356 or email crbspencer@yahoo.com REUNIONS- Also see Reunions Page *************************** West Virginia (WV) Coal Mining Company Stores photos, pictures and images. http:// www.wvepostcards.com/company-stores/ Here are some pictures posted by Walter and Yvonne's son, Jeromy Rose: Flickr: Photos from Richwood, West Virginia: http://www.flickr.com/photos/richwoodwv/ **************************************** School is almost |
