5/4/2007
Mr. Icenhower|
James Robert Icenhower
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11/12/2007Catching Up - ClassmatesDear Classmates, I'm going to do a few of these at a time and try to catch you up with what other classmates have written and will try to report on my activities in another e-mail later. Sue Weaver Boyter has joined the 'retiree' crowd...this from her in October:
Ruth Ann sent this note in July:
I also received this note from Glen Crawford in September:
Nancy Maple Moyers-Dey sent this note Oct 2:
I love you all and am really enjoying visiting and hearing from you. Later, Edith |
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11/06/2007TeachersDear Classmates, Mary Ellen Stevens Evans sent this note which I'm happy to pass along to you with a link to the movie clip mentioned in her note. It will be fun to see the teachers who are able to make it to the reunion, and I have certainly enjoyed the conversations I've had with the teachers I've been able to contact. The movie is definitely worth a look-see. Hope you will enjoy it and will want to respond accordingly. The link for the movie clip is: http://www.simpletruths.com/a.aspx?af=132&mo=STAP Thanks to Mary Ellen for sending it along. Edith
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10/24/2007Classmate Wanda Floyd RoweDear Classmates, Lynda Bonny Jackson called yesterday to say that she learned from Wanda that she was going to enter the hospital yesterday. She is expected to be in the hospital for two weeks while they bombard her with high powered antibiotics in an attempt to heal and relieve her of an ongoing health issue she has had for several months. Wanda is pretty discouraged at this point and would appreciate your prayers on her behalf. It would also be a good thing if you could send her a cheerful card. Lynda didn't know what hospital Wanda will be in, but her husband will be going daily to see her at the hospital and can take any cards to her that you might send. As we grow older, many of us are experiencing health issues. I will be sending another note shortly that Mike Crouch has asked me to forward to classmates. My prayer is that all of you will be healthy! Edith |
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10/14/2007Classmate - Sonny HerringDear Classmates, Sonny's wife, Katherine, responded to my request for a more recent picture of Sonny for the 'In Memory' section on the web site: www.borgerhigh1958.com. It has been on the site for a while now, so you may have already noticed it. In addition to the picture, Kathy sent a copy of the memorial page for Sonny from the Columbine High School annual. She also sent a laminated copy of the newspaper obit, the memorial folder from the funeral service, and this note:
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10/13/2007Classmate - Linn Sta;euDear Classmates, You may have already noticed that Linn Staley has been added to the list of those 'In Memory'. Linn's son, Brent, logged into the contact center on the web site and sent these comments on September 1.
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10/1/2007AccomodationDear Classmates: A link has been added to the home page at www.borgerhigh1958.com to give you information about accomodations available in Borger for the 50th reunion July 11-12, 2008. Follow the link to obtain the rate and amenities available at the motels who have blocked rooms for this event. Please note that at each motel listed you must mention BHS Class of 1958 to obtain the given rate, and they are requiring confirmation by credit card one month in advance in order to hold the requested rooms. Any remaining unrequested rooms will be released one month prior to the reunion. If unbooked, of course, they could still be available, but just not at the lower rate. Just so you'll be aware, Phillips has just broken ground on a new plant, and depending on the number of work crews which will be required during the different construction phases, the RV spaces especially may fill up. The construction will not start until around January 2008, and the number of motel rooms required will also be dependent on the construction phase, except that the blocked rooms are confirmed for the classmates as noted above and in the accomodations link. There are some other RV and motel accomodations in Fritch, and if you would like to have that information, let me know. I have not contacted them, but will do so if you request. I have been very inactive the last 2-3 months, as I'm sure you have noticed, but look for other information and correspondence soon! See you at the 50th reunion!! Edith |
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7/26/2007Class ReunionDear Classmates, Mary Ann Brooks Ferguson sent me this newspaper article which I want to share with you as it seems appropriate at this time. Even though it relates to a different class year, it could apply to any year's reunion, but especially those 40+!! Thanks for sharing it, Mary Ann! Edith
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7/23/2007From Digger O'Dell
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7/23/2007Replies from Classmates
Edith it was interesting reading the last update. When Keith McNutt was mention, my ears stood up. Wayland and Allen ( my husband) are first cousins. Our son is also Keith McNutt, I know that was a little confusing when both of the boys were in school. Our Keith lives in Mobil Al. And works for Williams Oil and Gas company. Our Keith is blonde and blue eyes. Waylands son is dark haired. How funny is this. Love Pat Fuller McNutt I've been looking at the last pictures. Are all the old people in that group, my class mates? Whoops, maybe gettin into trouble here---the Women look fine, the guys look like their dad's used to. Gerald Hazzard Hi Edith, thanks for your note. And I have been enjoying your updates. My goodness you do keep busy! No, my mom was not a teacher. And no relation to Patsy Scott. No help on her. Don't think this will help find Naomi Lamar, but I recently found in an old diary the note that Naomi lived just few blocks west of us on Franklin St. We were at 510 and she lived between us and the park. For some unremembered reason, we called Naomi "PuttPutt". Also diary says her family moved to Okla. in '56. Take good care, Ann Scott Putts Mike (Crouch)...I liked the resume (documentary)...I had several thoughts....Mike Crouch is a talented, confident and motivated writer. I just wonder how motivated everyone would be! Probably doesn't matter as it would serve those who are interested and no skin off the nose of those who aren't. Hopefully we would get good participation. All in all, A lot of people like myself are interested in hearing about the classmates personal and career paths, therefore I think it is worthwhile doing. But, who would collect and consolidate them....just maybe Edith would be interested in doing so. What would work...a file on the BHS58 website or hard copy bound/indexed? Mike Connelley Edith, thanks for forwarding Sandra's email. We have made contact and I am hoping that we can visit with her while she is in Borger. She and Eddie were some of my closest and best friends. Her Mom was a jewel also. You are doing a great job with all the emailing that is coming your way. It is fun. Dennis Hood Earline and I are doing very good right now. Sorry that you have missed us. We have been gone for a week to family reunion in Arkansas and had a lot to do when we got back. We are going to N.Mex. This Friday to visit our youngest sister Deloris. Thank you for thinking of us and tell every hello for us and we are really anxious to see everyone. Did I tell you that we talked to Martha (Griffin) and she was so happy to hear from us. I plan on going to see her here pretty soon. You all are doing such a great job contacting everyone. I talked to Jeff Back's sister Joyce and she gave me this on Jeff. Jeff was born March 11, 1938 and he passed away Nov. 5,1991. He lived in Marion Tx. where he taught mechanics in high school. He served 19 years in the army before going to college and becoming a mechanic teacher. He had 2 boys and 1 girl and 9 grandchildren. Joyce said that she has a more recent picture of Jeff if you wanted it to put in the memory section.She has a really good looking one of him in his army uniform if you rather have that one. Geri Platt Thank you Edith, for all of the information you have gathered up. Thanks again. Ed Blackwell Glad you pursued that Edith.....yes, we always thought Larry had died years ago, but glad to find he lived a much longer, and it sounds happier, life. Mike Crouch This is so sad. Larry and I had gone to school together in Tucumcari. I moved to Borger first, then Larry. He was always one of my favorite people. If I had known he was that close, I would have gotten in touch with him. We go through Tracy at least once a month. Thanks for the update. Pat Hay Thanks for the information on Larry. I surely did enjoy our meeting in Borger. It surely was good to get to visit with everyone while planning the reunion. Thanks Maxine Hillman Roy I AM SO SORRY I DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO VISIT. WE REALLY WERE ON A TIGHT SCHEDULE MAINLY BECAUSE OF BASEBALL GAMES. THAT PARK WHERE THEY PLAY IS REALLY NICE. IN FACT BORGER STILL HAS A LOT TO OFFER YOUNG FAMILIES. THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL OF YOUR DETECTIVE WORK. I KNOW IT TAKES TIME YET YOU LEARN SO MUCH AND MEET NICE PEOPLE ALONG THE WAY. THAT IS SO SAD ABOUT LARRY HENLEY. THE LITTLE STINKER. HE COULD HAVE LET SOMEONE KNOW WHERE HE WAS. MUCH LOVE MARY ANN BROOKS I'm so glad to hear from you, Edith. Enjoyed looking at pictures, etc.Hopefully I'll be able to attend the reunion. Janice Jennings Olomon I can't tell you how thrilled I was to get the list of people who graduated in 1958. Eventhough I did not graduate, all the pictures brought back memories. I live in Canton,Tx. home of the largest flea market in the world. I teach students who have learning disabilities and have taught for the last 34 years. I have three grandchildren. Two grandsons and one granddaughter. The oldest grandson has been drafted by the Dallas Stars. He was a Graduate of the Gunnery in Conn.this year. He will play hockey for a year in Penticken Canada and then go to Colgate college in New York. I am very proud of him and the other two grandchildren and their accomplishments. I am getting ready to retire in about two years I hope.I really do not know what I will do with my self but my Sister Diane assures me that there will be plenty for me to do.I love it here in East Texas with the exception of the flooding that we have had this year.I hope I get to come to the renunion next year. Better close for now, It has been good to read and see all those pictures. Barbara Garrard Marshall Until later, Edith |
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7/14/2007Larry Henley - BHS Class of 1958Dear Classmates: Beginning with the 20th Reunion in 1978 and every reunion since that time, we have been reporting that Larry Henley had died. In 2004 the school district commissioned an Alumni Directory. Many of you probably purchased the directory when contacted by the publisher that contracted to publish the book, but I didn't sign up for it at the time. Last year I purchased the last extra one that the administrative office had on hand in hopes I would be able to locate some lost classmates either listed in the book or through siblings who might be listed. It was a good investment, since it has enabled me to locate several I might not have found otherwise. But I was also surprised to find Larry Henley listed in the Alumni Directory showing him retired from General Mills and living in Minnesota. I started at that time trying to call Larry at the number listed in the book. I always got a voice machine, but no return calls when I left messages. I was still reluctant to report to you that Larry was still living since I had also found a few errors reported in the Directory. I hadn't, however, given up on finding out more information about Larry. Last week, I was able to obtain an on-line obituary for Larry's mother, who died in 2001. It listed her surviving children, Carolyn Kissell of Tracy CA and Larry Henley of Plymouth MN. I called Larry's sister and learned that Larry is deceased now, but did not die until March 2007! I'm grateful to Carolyn for furnishing the picture of Larry and his wife (Since the 45th, Photo 121) and the obituary (In Memory on Larry's page) that was published in the Tracy CA newspaper since she and Larry and their parents were long time residents and well-known there. Carolyn sent the information immediately, and I received it about two days after having talked with her. Thank you, Carolyn!! In addition to the picture and obit, Carolyn also sent this letter:
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7/5/2007More Updates on 1958 ClassmatesDear Classmates: First, I must correct misinformation I gave you in the last e-mail. I reported that Ettabelle Williams Herring graduated in Kansas. It's true she lived in Kansas for awhile (her sister Norma who graduated from BHS in 1953 still lives there), but she told me that they also moved to Shamrock, and she graduated from Shamrock HS. I am hoping that she will be able to shed some light on Randall King. As I said in the previous note, it is amazing to me the connectivity I find each time I learn about a classmate. Those who attended the planning session were helpful in sharing facts they remembered about some of the missing friends and more classmates have been located as a result of that information. It just takes a spark!! Because those at the planning session remembered what neighborhood some of the missing lived in growing up, it narrowed the field of search. Here are some of the stories: Somebody at the session remembered that Linda Wilson Kuroki was good friend of Anna Sue Hicks Johnson. Linda was then able to give me some more information about her family that enabled me to talk to Anne's daughter. She goes by Anne Johnson now, and is in a nursing home in Bay City. I had a wonderful visit on the phone with Vanessa, who has been taking care of her mother for many years. Helen Yarbrough Martinez was a wealth of information on these classmates: She obtained Luette Hammons Matney's contact information from her cousin, Mildred Adams. Luetta was surprised when I talked with her that we didn't know where she was, since she had kept in contact with Jeanie Fauske Ratliff quite a bit through the years. She was also surprised that no one had notified her about Jeanie's death. Helen also had some leads on Nancy Ingram, but I have not been able to confirm further information yet. Helen also remembered that Phyllis Reams had died and was able to give me her married name so I could locate the obituary to confirm that information. She is now listed on the 'In Memory' section. Helen gave us an address for Retha Ann Stover Wallace (and her married name, since we didn't have it). I was not able to come up with a correct phone number for her, but when I called Helen back again to report, she remembered that Retha and her husband (now deceased) had been close to Jane Cooley Covington and her husband in the past. I called Jane and she was able to give me Retha's correct phone number and also told me that Retha's son lives next door to her! I enjoyed my chat with Jane and learned that she plans to be at the Class of '57 50th reunion this weekend. I hope to see her there. Retha and Helen have both reported to me that they have since talked to each other. Hoorah!! Lynda Bonny Jackson said she works with Keith McNutt (Wayland's son) and could get Wayland's contact information from Keith. She called the next day to give it to me. Wayland was one of the classmates that Wendell Garrison asked about. As it turns out, they just live a few miles from each other! A search of obits and news articles (primarily 50th wedding announcements of parents) in the library newspaper archives enabled me to locate Sherry Clements, Carlene Chester, Nora Faye Seger, Nancy Gibbons Helen Gutierrez and Ronald Barnett! In the process of locating the classmate using those resources, I was able to make a lot of new friends - siblings, step-siblings, friends and neighbors of those classmates. After talking with Sherry's sister-in-law to obtain Sherry's current information, I learned that Sherry's sister was married to Jerry Dawson, a Calvary Baptist Church boy whose family I knew from having grown up in that church. Carlene Chester's location was given to me by the pastor of a church in her area. A family by the same family name given in her father's obituary that I cold-called referred me to him. Carlene has since re-married and her name is Walls. She was surprised to hear from someone from her school days in Borger. She now lives in North Carolina. She remembers Carolyn Harper and asked about her. Carolyn is one of our classmates that I have done a lot of looking for without success. I hope one of you will be able to help with Carolyn so we can let Carlene know. Nora Faye Seger's brother, Roy, lives in Sanford and has been in this immediate area all these years, but I didn't realize he was her brother until reading it in her father's obituary. Nora Faye was also surprised to hear from an old classmate after all these years, but her sister-in-law will help encourage her to attend the 50th reunion so she can see her again, too! I remember them mostly from East Ward, so I hope both Carlene and Nora Faye will be able to travel the long distance required so we can see them after 50+ years! I discovered from Nancy Gibbons' parents 50th wedding announcement that Nancy lived in Fritch at the time. The phone was still listed, but I didn't get an answer right away, so I called and talked to her sister who lives in Ballinger. Her sister confirmed that Nancy Gibbons Gideon does still live in Fritch and I talked with her later there. Because they lived in the area in Bunavista that Phillips moved houses from, they moved to Fritch and both Nancy and her sister graduated from Phillips. Nancy has lived in Fritch all these years, but they have a winter home in Kerrville so are there during those months. They both plan to be at the Phillips reunion in a week or so. I visited with Ronald Barnett's two step-sisters before finally locating Ronald's sister. Ronald's dad and Lue and Alice's mother didn't marry until long after they were all grown and gone from home, so they hadn't kept in touch, but I had an enjoyable time visiting with them. I learned that Alice graduated from BHS in 1962 and plans to be at that 45th reunion in the fall. Eddie Page's wife, Sandra Zimmerman, was in that class as well, so I definitely hope to see them then. Finally I was able to talk to Ronald's sister and she gave me Ronald's phone, etc. While I was talking with her, she said that Thomas Hooper, who was a neighbor of mine for many years before I moved to Houston, lived close to her. Mr. Hooper was also principal at BHS for a number of years after our time! Ronald was out when I called, so I enjoyed a visit with his wife. He called back after he returned home, surprised to hear from a Borger classmate . He said they moved to Amarillo and he and his sister both graduated from Amarillo High School, but he remembered a lot of classmates from having played ball with them. He also said he got re-acquainted with Randy Hudson and his sister, Melissa, when he came back to Borger during the summers working during his college years at Texas Tech. Randy was glad to hear about Ronald and I hope they have since connected. Helen Gutierrez Hernandez has lived in Amarillo all these years, but I was only able to locate her after learning her married name from her mother's obit. It was good to talk with Helen. Mary Ellen Stevens Evans remembered some facts about Henry Mayo's family that enabled me to do a more intelligent search for him. I will report further when I've been able to finish that investigation, since I am waiting for some feedback from another source. Harold Hooks has a couple of missing folks he thinks he will be able to obtain information on, so we hope to hear from him soon. Roy Cole also thought he remembered something about one of the missing classmates who may live in Amarillo that he will follow up on. Roy called yesterday to say that his sister is here, and they will drop by the Class of '57 50th reunion at some point. She graduated in '57, but hadn't expected to be here for the reunion and this visit with Roy was a spur of the moment one. Charles Trigg remembered that Larry Morris' folks owned a TV shop across from Heard & Jones. When I researched that shop, I was surprised it was Milt Morris. My daddy used to talk about Milt Morris all the time. I'm sorry I didn't listen better, as I might be able to find Larry now if I had! Some of the other clues that were given at the planning session have still not been followed up, but hopefully will yield some positive results. After the meeting, Rosalie Mason Overbay called to report that she had talked with Vernon Huddleston and gave me his information. When I called, Vernon was out helping a neighbor with something, so I had a very pleasant conversation with his grandson Zachary, until Vernon could get back in the house. Very personable young man!! Vernon is interested in attending the reunion, so hopefully, we'll see him there. I enjoyed talking with him and learning what he's been doing. I hope I have remembered to tell you everything I know!! If not, maybe I'll remember later and can report. It's taken me a long time to type this (typos and all), and in the meantime I received these two e-mails from classmates.
Love to you all!! Edith
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7/5/2007Update on 1958 ClassmatesDear Classmates, OK Boys and Girls.....KEEP THOSE CARDS, EMAILS AND LETTERS COMING..... HOPE TO SEE ALL YOU'UNS AT THE REUNION. MIKE CROUCH Edith: Several more photos are in the 'Since the 45th' section at www.borgerhigh1958.com as a result of my latest round of classmate visits yesterday. At least it was yesterday when I started this note almost a month ago!! I will attempt to bring you up to-date with all that has been going on since then. First, I will make some comments on the photos that have been added in the 'Since the 45th' section. Photo 99 was taken at Larry Black's mother's funeral. Photo 100-107 are the classmate visit pictures. Photo 108 was taken at Paula Collins Diamond's mother's funeral. Photo 110-119 are of the Planning Session on June 21, and Photo 120 of John Wilkinson and his family. It was fun visiting with LeDona. Her cute little Pomeranian dog was interested in visiting, too, but pouted when he was ignored! I should have gotten a picture of that. LeDona has promised to see you at the 50th. I enjoyed seeing Mike again, and I caught Jerry in the process of mowing his lawn. His wife, Lenora, had come out to tell him I was on the way. I visited with Bob and Joyce Kenimer and headed on toward Fritch, stopping at Wendell Garrison's on the way. Wendell asked about several folks he remembered and gave me some ideas for contacting other lost classmates. It was fun talking with Wendell and I enjoyed meeting his grandaughter who was visiting from Odessa. She thinks her grandpa is pretty special! I met Rebecca Yeager Murley's two grandsons while I was visiting with her and one of them took our picture. Rebecca also remembered that Joyce Dixon married a Dale Watts, and I was hopeful that would lead to finding Joyce, but so far have not been successful in doing so. Brenda Dixon May said that she is not related to their family. If any of you know anything about Joyce, please let me know. It was good to visit with Sue Earnest Kersey and Nellis Orr Schuster. It was good to see Glyndon Collins again. I don't remember which one, but one of these folks I visited had just told me that Glyndon was Paula's cousin and I had not taked the time to follow up on that lead when Rosalie called him to my attention at the funeral. I saw him again a couple of days later at a restaurant so had a couple of times recently to remind him about the reunion. We had a great planning session which I will tell more about in another note. I know you will appreciate as much as I do the folks who participated and are helping to make this a special 50th reunion. John Wilkinson contacted me on the Sunday morning following planning session day to let me know he was coming through Borger on his way to their summer home in Montana. It was a treat for Michael and I to have breakfast with him and his wife and grandaughter and catch up a little with their family. While we were in the restaurant, Brenda Haley Barringer came by the table and Jimmy and Ann Kesterson Hines also stopped to visit for a few minutes. Jimmy and Ann are involved with the 50th reunion for the Class of 1957 which is this weekend.
Because of Geri's request about Martha Griffin, I focused on trying to locate her. I was able to locate a listing for Doyle Griffin and spoke to his widow (info is now 'In Memory' section). I learned that Doyle had died in 1986, and Patricia sent the picture for the memorial page. I failed to get other information from Patricia to enable completion of the memorial page, but will follow up with her on that later. She did give me contact information for Martha and I was able to talk with her. Martha was interested to learn about Geraldine and Earline, and also asked about Rosalie Mason. Since Mary Kay Carithers' family was the only one by that name listed in the '53-54 Borger City Directory, I was able to obtain information that enabled me to locate Mary Kay's brother and get contact information for her. I had a great talk with James and subsequently, with Mary Kay. I learned that her dad had worked for Huber and was transferred to Baytown in 1954. He retired before I started working for Huber or I probably would have known about Mary Kay before now. Mary Kay said she returned to Borger for summer time visits with Beverly Summers and Jeanie Roper after they moved to Baytown. Here in her words:
This is getting over-long, so will send and start another to give you all the rest (a lot!) I have to report. I hope you all are taking the opportunity to contact classmates you have thought about over the years. E-mail addresses, phone numbers, and mailing addresses are not being reported in these notes since the notes will be posted on the web site and I want to protect privacy of our classmates. You may have received the class contact list before some of the mentioned classmates have been found, so let me know if you want that information. You can call or e-mail me requesting it. Later, Edith
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6/15/2007More from Classmates
So folks, if someone is missing on the list you've received and you know the tiniest tidbit of information about them, please be sure and let me know. No matter how insignificant it might seem, it might just be the bit of information needed to locate them. It was very gratifying to locate Pat after talking with several different people who had some connection with her and also learning about members of their families which, who knows, might lead to another find! Larry Black's mother's funeral was in Amarillo on Thursday, and I had an opportunity to visit very briefly with Nedra and Larry there. Nedra said she had also spent some time in Lelia Lake with Pat. There will be a picture soon in the 'Since the 45th' section of Larry and Nedra's beautiful family. Nedra and Larry were still in Amarillo when I located Pat, so she hopes to contact her before they head back home. While in Amarillo, I took the opportunity to visit with Marshall Burrell's dad and get a picture for the memorial page. I also took a picture of him standing by the wall in his home with Marshall's family's pictures. It will be on the web site, too. It was fun talking with this energetic and involved gentleman. He said he doesn't have internet, but has a nephew who will help him look at the web site. His niece accompanies his on cruises frequently and he had several pictures of those. He also told me about a number of other nieces and nephews that keep a lookout for him, all folks I know from Borger who I had no idea was related to Marshall's family. On the current list, Jimmie Brown's and Shirley Roger's addresses are shown. But those are not good addresses or information and I have not been able to be in touch with them or with Jimmie's brother who he had given me contact information for at the last reunion. Please, if you know anything about these two, let me know. Mary Ann Brooks Ferguson is in town helping her daughter with their move to Whitesboro. They have sold the house Mary Ann grew up in, and I guess it's sad to see the house go, but she will be very happy to have her grandchildren close in Whitesboro! Mary Ann reported that while she has been in town, she contacted Mrs. Shi and had a nice phone visit with her. Mrs. Shi is looking forward to the reunion. Later, Edith |
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6/12/2007More from Class of 1958 - Bob West
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6/12/2007Class of 1958 ResponsesDear Classmates: I forgot to mention this in the last e-mail I sent, but you may already have noticed that the junior high pictures from the 1954 and 1955 annuals are now on the classmates section. If you don't have your annuals and couldn't remember some of the folks listed on the contact list you've received, maybe you'll recognize them if you look at their picture. I have remembered faces, but not names in some instances, so it helps to have that cross-reference. Some more grandchildren information in the news: Paula Collins Diamond's granddaughter, Miranda Cole, will be in the Middle East on a mission trip this month with a group from Howard Payne Baptist College where she is attending. Miranda will appreciate your prayers on behalf of her and her group as they travel. Leon and Barbara Session's grandson, Cody Sessions, will be married July 21, 2007. He attends WTAMU, where he plays baseball for the Buffs. Here are some more responses from you:
I have a friend who graduated from Lelia Lake in 1958 and have e-mailed him in the hope that he can enlighten us about Pat. He told me last December that Billy Lane also graduated from Lelia Lake and gave me copies of pictures from his annual of Billy, but they do not have current contact information about Billy. Maybe he can help with Pat. Check out the latest pictures in the 'Since the 45th' section. Photo 94 is a recent picture of the Platt twins, Geraldine and Earline. Photo 95-98 are the results of my visits to deliver contact lists to classmates in Borger. Bill was very busy on the phone and with people coming in and out to talk to him, so we were not able to have much conversation. Had a nice visit with Leon and his wife Barbara, but I had forgotten about their grandson's wedding announcement until I got home and looked back at the newspaper clippings I had saved. Robert Turnbow is Leon's cousin, but they have not known his whereabouts for a long time. Hopefully, some of you will know something. Jimmy had the coolest restored early 40's Ford pickup in his garage! I should have taken a picture of it, so you could see it. I didn't think of it until after I had been to George Pierce's house. George had a beautifully restored old tractor setting in front of his house. His wife (Shirley Brown '57) told me it was for sale when I commented on the restoration. George was in the garage, so we went out there and Shirley took our picture in front of the restored Ford tractor at George's request. He also made sure I noticed the picture of his wife taken in her younger days that is posted on the garage wall. You can see it above my left shoulder in the picture. This was a fun afternoon!! Gary Horton called a couple of days ago to give me current contact information for Charles and Bobby Eagan, and I was able to talk with both Bobby (actually his wife) and Charles last night. Doris Clem returned my call this morning and I was able to get contact information for her. Her son, who died last year, was a co-worker of mine at R&M Energy (Huber) for almost 20 years and I had no idea they were related! She asked about several of you. Later, Edith |
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6/10/2007Grandchildren and ParentsDear Classmates: Sylvia Terry Banks wrote: W hen our senior pictures were taken and put in the annual in 1958, we were all asked to state our ambitions. Some were light hearted and humorous and some serious and purposeful as we all set out on life’s journey after graduation. Have often wondered how all our ambitions were realized or unfulfilled after 50 years. Edith: Michael wanted to put those on the classmates section and I talked him out of it since many of the pictures that we are including were from years other than senior. We might still do that...we'll see. But I, too, have wondered about that aspect. I also wonder if most everyone remembers what they responded to that query if they don't have their annuals. I didn't become what I said I wanted to do at that time, but I also changed my mind and realized what I was best at and most fulfilled at doing when I went to work for Huber after both my kids graduated from high school. I didn't go to college until then, graduating in 1988. Sylvia Terry Banks: Think we were all so immature that we hadn't a clue as to what we were capable of at the time. I started thinking about this when I realized we had 3 grandchildren graduating from high school this year and wondering what they would achieve in the years to come. Good for you, going back to school later. It took me 8 years to get through Frank Phillips and West Texas and Jimmy took 12 years. I would guess that few of us have had an easy road and I guess that is what life is all about. I do wonder how many remember what their ambitions were at graduation. Edith: Sylvia's query prompts me to ask you to respond as I had already been thinking about the subject after seeing the Vance Moxom's grandson graduated in Borger and Rosale Mason Overbay's in Fritch. Mike Crouch's comments below added impetus to the idea. Let's hear from you on this subject and about your graduating grandchildren, children, parents, etc! Mike Crouch: How about we designate some people as honorary 1958ers.....people who were married (and now widows or widowers) of 58ers? Too outrageous? Que? Mike responded further when I asked for suggestions about how to proceed with this idea: The only ways (I can think of) we participate as a group is by sharing remembrances and by attending reunions........why don't we invite "Honoraries" to do both? It seems to me that at a reunion we are not only trying to see old friends and capture old memories...we also are interested in what became of "old so-and-so" (where did they go? what did they do? what did they accomplish - frankly, I have been astounded at what some of our classmates have done - kids and grandkids? etc) ..... And so, especially for what their lives became after school for our classmates who have deceased, we cannot know that other than through those who they loved and married.. ..... and we have to realize some of the "eligible Honoraries" might have no interest or be too shy or intimidated to attend.....conversely some who graduated from BHS (or Phillips) and who know some 58ers in their own right, might be well be "honored" to be asked and to participate. Bobbie Clark Marcom: Alberta Rorabaugh contacted me after she saw my brothers obituary. Can't remember where she was living. Bobbie had Alberta's e-mail but said, Sorry, that is all the information I have on her. I know her husband's name is Bill, but that wouldn't help. She read of my brother's obituary in the Borger paper & contacted me. Also, on the last page of the list you sent, Rufus Whitten is listed. The only Rufus Whitten was my cousin & has been deceased for a long time. But don't have any idea about his family. Also, didn't remember going to school with him. You are really jogging memories. Ha!! Thanks for all the work you have done. Edith: After receiving this information from Bobbie, I was able to locate the obituary for Rufus in the library newspaper files and it is now in the 'In Memory' section. I was also able to correspond with Alberta and she entered current contact information at the 'Contact Center' and sent this note. Alberta Lee Rorabaugh Morris: I enjoyed the website. I am looking forward to having more time to read and look at the pictures on it. I have sometimes wondered about the kids I went to school with in Borger, so it was a delight to get it.I did not graduate from high school. I finished junior high school at Borger. I was married July 5, 1955 so my husband and I will be celebrating our 52ND wedding anniversary this July. We have four sons, Billy, Jr., Bob, Ben and Brad. I moved from Borger to Levelland, TX in 1967 where we have resided since. I am glad Bobbie had my e-mail address to give you. Thank you for contacting me. Melvin Grimes: I have cut back to 3 days a week and will retire completely some time this year. God willing, I will see you in 2008 if not sooner. O ur prayers are with Digger. Edith: And speaking of Digger, he sent a note saying he will furnish a biography which we are looking forward to having. Lynda Denton Osman went to the Contact Center at www.borgerhigh1958.com and reported: I found a Missing Classmate! Leona Rawlins is my cousin. I didn't realize that you all couldn't contact her. Edith: I have called but have not been able to reach Leona, yet. Maybe I'll hear from her soon. Pat Fuller McNutt: Just wanted to let Randy and Clifton know they were not the only honorees to have Mrs Vogel's eraser thrown at them, I got it on the side of my head for answering a question without first raising my hand. Gloria Miles Hines responded to the list and note she received by entering current information at the Contact Center. Janet Huckaby had asked about Gloria when I contacted her, so I hope they are getting in touch with each other. Edith: Weldon and Carmen Evans Lewis have reported that they plan to attend both his ('57) and her reunions. We are looking forward to seeing them again! Weldon sent a copy of the song, 'Borger, My Hometown', and we are trying to find a way to put a link on the web site so you can give it a listen. I remember the song when it first came out. I think Weldon may have been at the radio station at that time. The title of this e-mail was the result of the comments from others above, reports some of you have previously made about your parents, and my conversation with Lynda Bonny Jackson who called to say they were going to Canada to pick up her mother who has been visiting her brother. She had taken her mother to her class reunion in Kansas a few weeks ago (70+). Think of it!! Both Lynda and Gary's mothers are in their 90s and are active and very busy all the time. Gary's mother still teaches a Sunday School class at FUMC in Borger. Meda Bonny and Marie Jackson are very special friends of mine! In an attempt to locate a later picture of Marshall Burrell for the 'In Memory' section, I called his father, who I learned still lives in Amarillo. What a delightful conversation we had! He told me he is 89, lost his wife about 4 years ago, and now dances five nights a week at the Sr. Citizen Center in Amarillo. I will go see him next time I can go to Amarillo as he was very happy to be asked to furnish a picture and told me to call him on his cell phone if he is not at home and he will be there to get me a picture! The later picture of Wiley Fitzpatrick has been on the 'In Memory' section for several months, but I have not told you my experience in obtaining it. I called a number listed under Wiley's name hoping to find a family member who could furnish a picture still at that number. Lo, and behold, the lady answering told me she was Wiley's mother and was 91 years old! She sounded so alert and 'with it' that I even asked her if she had a computer and could e-mail me a scanned picture of Wiley. She said she didn't, but her son did, and he was on his way over to take her out to dinner (which he does every week). I asked how long she thought it would be before he got there, thinking I would call back. She said about 15 minutes so we agreed we would just keep talking until he got there! When he arrived, I talked with him and he later scanned and sent the picture you see on the memorial page. It was quite a fun time for me! Thanks to all of you for all your responses and for making this such a fun, heart-warming experience for me! Edith |
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6/7/2007Classmate CorrespondenceJohn Wilkinson: Since retiring last August we have cut most our ties with California and are spending winters in Austin and summers in Bozeman, Montana. This has been a large adjustment after 42 years with many of the same co-workers. We are trying to figure out what our next stage will be. I have started a small part time importing business but it is slow going. It does give me a great excuse to avoid housework. Getting connected in two places is also taking some time. We intend to attend the reunion if at all possible. Digger O'Dell: July of 2008 will be, I hope, my last chemotherapy treatment but I certainly plan on attending our reunion. Edith: The last week or so have been pretty eventful and I will summarize here, since it has been verbal communication rather than written. You'll be interested in some of these comments, since they concern folks some of you have asked about. Last Thursday, Nancy Baker Windt and her brother, Art, were in town. Micca Chapman Pirtle and I had lunch with them and had a nice visit. Nancy was unable to reach Bennie Hill, and Brenda Haley Barringer was taking care of her mother and couldn't make it. I asked the waitress to take our picture, but after 3 tries with dead batteries fresh out of a brand new package failed, we gave up. Nancy told me that she and Mary Ann Brooks Ferguson were going to visit Carolyn Baxter Taber for a few days. I didn't think to ask them to take a picture and they didn't, even though when they called on Monday after having visited Carolyn, they said they had talked about it. I mention this because I want to ask all of you who may be getting together with each other to be sure and take pictures to send for the web site. Mary Ann and Nancy said Carolyn looked great, and they are making arrangements for her to have her dialysis in Amarillo on Friday of the reunion weekend and the following Monday so she'll be able to attend. What a wonderful caring thing that is!! Geraldine and Earline, the Platt twins, left school in 1954. Geraldine's picture is in the junior high annual, but Earline's is not. With a great deal of help from Rosalie Mason Overbay, I was finally able to contact Earline and find out that she is staying in Amarillo for the time being to take care of their 91 year old mother and Geraldine, who lives with their mother but is recuperating from hip replacement. Earline also talked with Rosalie after I did, and she remembers a lot about classmates from junior high we are looking for, and hopefully will be able to locate with the leads she furnished. Helen Yarbrough Martinez, Rosalie and I will plan to visit them in Amarillo when my sister is here to care for my mother. Dennis Hood had given me some information that we hoped would help locate J. C. Tipton. I had exhausted those leads, but then talked with Monty Maddox, who was able to give me additional leads that enabled me to locate J. C. I talked with him yesterday evening and he asked about several of you - Jake Roden, Bennie Hill, Baldy Luttrell, Monty, etc. I was sad to tell him that Baldy had died. I have been sending current contact lists and most of you should have received them. But I am still in the process of doing that, and sometimes the information changes before I get the next group sent! I was out earlier this morning to run some errands and took the opportunity to deliver a new list to 2 or 3 people in town. Jake Roden said he talks to Leo Tilson almost every day and gave me new contact information for Leo. Since the updated list I took to him had current contact information for J. C., hopefully they will be able to talk. Monty says he plans to contact J. C. as well. James McPherson called to say that he had gotten the list and wished he had gotten it the week before, since he was in Borger over the Memorial Day weekend. He and Laverne were in Panhandle for the wedding of a family member and drove on over to Borger to try and see his cousin, Harold, and best school buddy, Jerry Stanford. Neither one of them were at home, so he didn't get a chance to see them. He did say he had called Digger O'Dell earlier that day. It makes my heart glad!! James is still working, but is presently on medical leave recuperating from knee replacement. James said he had a lot of grade school pictures he will send. I called Jerry Stanford to tell him that James had tried to see him and he said James had also tried to call that day, too, but he had been gone. Hopefully, they'll be in touch. It was great to talk with Larry Black and Nedra Larsen Black this week, also Jimmie Nash. I learned recently that Donn Lake had retired a while back, but his employer found he could not do without him, so he is back to work - longer hours, in fact. Hardly has time to do anything but eat and sleep other than work. We hope he'll be able to take off some time to attend the reunion. Gerald Hazzard also told me that his old boss called him back to work, so he is flying again. Pat Killen, Glynn Fish's sister, sent a wonderful photo of Glynn that you can now see on the 'In Memory' section on the web site: www.borgerhigh1958.com. I finally found a picture of Glen Crawford for the 'Classmates' page. Glen moved to Dumas after the 6th or 7th grade, and I believe this picture was probably from one of those years. I'm sure there are other things I wanted to tell you that I am forgetting, but need to get this gone. Will make another note if I think or learn anything else. My prayer is that God will hold you close and keep you safe and well until we meet again! In His love, Edith |
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6/1/2007ClassmatesMarcia Campbell Pittman reminisces about the Spudnut Shop: We moved from Phillips to Borger in the summer of 1950. My daddy had an upholstery shop, first on a side street not far from Jim's grocery or Holt's grocery, then moved to 304 North Main for a few years and then moved to the 100 or 200 block (across from the newspaper office when we were in junior high. I really thought that I remember it being called the Spudnut Shop,but maybe it wasn't unless it was still open then. I just remember my Daddy buying them and how good they were. When we came to the 20th reunion, I remember going to a donut shop at the other end of the street not far from what used to be the Morley movie theatre and the Borger Hotel. Edith: I remember the Spudnut Shop the way Marcia does, so I called Meryl Barnett, whose twin brother Beryl was the original owner of that Spudnut Shop, to confirm. My daddy was a sign man and may have painted the original Spudnut Shop sign for Beryl. And my mother, who did sewing for people, sewed for Mrs. Barnett and I'm sure I heard talk about the shop from both my parents, as well as eating those good Spudnuts! That shop was closed for a while before Louis Reyher opened the one near the Morley Theater in 1957 (called Mr. Treat). They just celebrated their 50th year, and Marcia's sister sent her a copy of the newspaper article. That information prompted Marcia's original question to me about the Spudnut Shop. Maxine Hillman Roy responds and asks a question:The boy next to Johnny Harrington looks a little bit like Eddie Page, but I'm not sure. I read or heard the other day something about the Borger Teen Town being opened again or having been remodeled. Is that correct? I remember that the first year of Teen Town was when we were seniors and what a good time that we had there. Edith: I had to call Charles Gillingham, Councilman, to find the answer to Maxine's question about Teen Town. He said that Teen Town (or The Dawg House as it is now called) had not been closed. The project that is in the working stage is to remodel the building and swimming pool areas and add another building for a gym. He said the actual project is probably a year away, as the architect is now drawing up plans, etc. The project has been approved and the money is available, but architect plans will have to be approved and contracts let before actual renovation and construction begin. Bob West: Would love to hear from my old class mates! Randy Hudson: I would like to share with our classmates an incident that happened in Mrs. Vogel's English class our Sr. year. As I recall Mrs. Vogel had called for quiet as she began to write on the blackboard; however Clifton Rouse and I continued to whisper to each other at a two foot distance and all of a sudden a chalk eraser came zipping between us at eye level. The two of us were in such a state of shock we were speechless and needless to say she had our undivided attention for the rest of the class as well as the others. WOW: What an arm and what an aim! Vance Moxom in response to my inquiry about the Phillips Golf Tourney he had said he would be in May 5: We shot 69--68 and competed in the 1st flight.I was 13 last time I played in the 1st flight----10 minutes after I finished I was headed for Grapevine. Got home around 1am to work later that morning. No one has contacted me so I guess we came up empty---bogeying 5 holes together was our downfall. My son Mark visited Sat. and the grandkids so I didn't have much time. I'm going to try and play in the Borger Open--late Aug. A lot of us are enjoying your efforts. Howard Adams - have you heard from? Edith: As a result of Vance's inquiry about Howard, I tried again to call him. I had tried a couple of times before but was unable to talk with him or confirm contact information. I was able to reach him this time and confirm that he is still in the same place, but because he is in a rural location, the address description had changed. Howard sounded great, and it was good to talk with him. Hopefully, we'll see him again in 2008!! Also, I am in the process of mailing information to those who have not already receive some. I didn't have a current mailing address for Bob Hatcher, only an e-mail address and phone number, so I called and talked with him. He sounded great, and said he is reading the e-mails. It was good to talk with Bob, too, and we're hoping see him in 2008!! If you are checking the web site www.borgerhigh1958.com, maybe you've noticed some pictures have been added. Bennie Hill dropped a few by that he had at the lake and they are: Western Day number 52 in the School Days section and lake get together pictures number 89-91 in the Since the 45th Section. Bennie also brought the recent picture of Carolyn number 92 in the Since the 45th Section, but I don't know if that is at the lake. In addition to those pictures, there is one of Ray Hopkins that his wife, Lynn, furnished. It was in the Borger News Herald recently in preparation for the Borger Beach Bash June 2. If you come to the Beach Bash, you can see Ray and his ugly truck!! Later, Edith |
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5/31/2007Classmates Found - Diane Cannon Walstad and Don Essary
Thanks to Betty's help and further information from Dennis Hood about Don, these two classmates have been contacted and contact information confirmed. Diane is in at least one of the group pictures in 'School Days' at www.borgerhigh1958.com and is identified as Diane Cannon. In the Junior High annual she is listed as Diane Walstad, so Betty's e-mail explains why this is one and the same Diane! Both are interested in the 50th reunion. Hopefully, we'll see them both there! Edith |
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5/26/2007Note from Mary Ellen Stevens EvansWasn't it Mr. Kelly who had the melt down over the band not returning on his demand on Senior Sneak Day? I'll never forget our dumping sand from our jeans cuffs in his office at 3:15 as we signed in. He was so mad I'm surprised he didn't have a stroke. I think we were the last class to ever have a Senior Sneak Day. I've talked to seniors from later years and they never hear of such a thing. My nephew, Ed Stevens, class of 65 (I think), sent me this link about Charlotte Schultz, class of 55. http://www.sanfranciscosentinel.com/?p=2019 She is Chief of Protocol for the state of CA and was given the title of Honorary Commander of the Royal Victorian Order by Queen Elizabeth on her recent visit. (This allows Charlotte to use the title of Dame before her name.) I'm not the youngest (5/19/40) in our class, but 8 family members and 4 generations of my family have graduated from Borger High. One of my brothers (Bill) was in the first graduating class! (My other siblings graduated from Phillips High.) My family moved to Borger in 1929. At that time it was - both homes and businesses - a tent city and the Texas Rangers were the law. Many bank robbers and drug dealers lived in the canyons between Borger and Stinnett and along the Canadian River. My dad had owned a grocery store in OK and when the depression and dust bowl hit and all the farmers went belly up he sold out and moved to Borger and went to work on building the Phillips Refinery. When it was complete, he went to work for Phillips Pet. Co. and worked for them until 1959 when he retired. Did you know the original school colors were to have been purple and gold? The week of/before the opening ceremonies it had rained a lot. There were no paved highways to get to another town and the roads were too muddy to try. There was no purple and gold ribbon for decorating to be found in Borger. The only colors of ribbon that any of the merchants had was red and white. So, a fast decision was made and the school colors were changed to red and white. And, I'm sure you know that the old West Ward school building was the original High School building. At one of my brother's class reunions they had found someone there in Borger who had a ceramic mold of a bulldog about 4 or 5 inches long and about 3 inches high. They used them to decorate the tables and then gave them away as prizes. I have my brother's if you would like to see it. Thanks for all your hard work. I'm really enjoying the fruits of your labors! (Thanks too, to your son!) Mary Ellen P.S. I wonder when the Phillips class of '58 will have their reunion. If they have not yet picked a date, maybe they could pick our weekend and we could have a mixer with them since so many of us knew Phillips kids. My church had a big reunion last year and a number of the Phillips kids in our youth group came. It was great to see them again. I know Phillips reunions are now held at the "museum" in Stinnett and that once a class hits 50 years they must all attend a general reunion for all the classes put on by the school. Thus my siblings classes (a 10 year span) all have the same reunion. |
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5/23/2007More MiscellaneousZan (Bonnie) Hoopes Turner: I've been reading the voluminous correspondence of our classmates with much pleasure, astonished at the dim memories being stirred by many of the reminiscences. If you'd've asked me 2 months ago to name just one of our high school teachers, I don't think I could have. But, as I read what others have written, the recollections start coming back - not only of teachers but also of many of our classmates. Thanks so much for your considerable efforts at bring us together. I look forward to seeing you again at the reunion. Darby Trotter shared this exchange between him and Randy Hudson:
Another newspaper clipping furnished by Johnny Harrington has been added to 'School Days' , number 51, at www.borgerhigh1958.com. If you know any of the players I can't identify, please let me know. Wonder how much three games of bowling and the use of bowling shoes is these days? Edith |
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5/10/2007More MiscellaneousDear Classmates, John Harrington sent this information: Stubby was the mascot for 8 years and lettered in the band for all those years. Stubby died of old age in 1955. He truly enjoyed being the mascot. I remember one night game and the half time show had a sweet young girl and a villian dressed in black and stovepipe hat. But, Stubby didn't like him, broke his leash and knocked the villian to the ground. He positioned himself between the girl and the villian and barked. He would not let the hero save her either. My cousin Merle (Buddy) was tending him and ran out on the field and got Stubby. Turned out to be more of a show than Mr. Carpenter had planned. I asked John if there was a replacement after Stubby, and he said he didn't know. They moved to Colorado at Christmas time in 1956. Anyone else know? Bob West: Darby Trotter got his dad to let us use their stationwagon and Harold Smith, Darby and I went to Amarillo to see Elvis Presley live. What a treat. Changed my whole outlook on the meaning of life and music. Melvin Goforth: Edith, I have really appreciated that you have taken the considerable time and energy to keep us all up to date on the upcoming reunion. I do plan to attend and look forward to seeing old friends and classmates. I have read all of the emails that you posted and they have brought bagk a lot of memories, some good and some not, of our times at BHS. Richard Martin: Thank you Monty for helping me to remember Ms. Voorhees. I took two years of typing because I was in love with Ms. Voorhees. She was the most attractive teacher I had ever had, and I had a major crush on her. I earned a "B" certificate in her class, and I also worked very hard to get her attention. After a number of years in computer software development, I truly was grateful for the education in typing I received from Ms. Voorhees. I also remember she had very long beautiful red fingernails, and many times wondered how she was able to type so well with them. Isn't it interesting what made an impression on us in high school. Thank you so much Edith, for your comprehensive and diligent work on this web site. I have expressed it before, but want you to know again how much pleasure it has been to me. My redeeming grace is that I have a lot of faults, but ingratitude isn't one of them. My best regards to you and everyone, Richard Martin. I talked with Joe Claborn on Sunday. You'll remember him as coach and general science teacher during our junior high years. He said they come back to Borger occasionally as his wife, the former Jo Ann Boman, is from Borger. Maybe he will be able to attend the reunion. He said he retired from teaching in 1991. It was great to talk with him. Later, Edith |
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5/8/2007Mike's Football MemoriesFootball memories......not many. My "career" was shortened due to a severe allergy for which I took shots twice a week......so I played only my soph year, but my love of football continues to this day.....but a few memories stay with me * While I do not remember the race Gary Moore describes, I do remember "Smokey" and "Jake" pitting various ones of us against each other in races...... ....things I do remember...... *...once Coach Willard was drilling the varsity defense with the scrubs (me included) as offense.....I was lined up at what we would now call wide receiver ....my route was to get open to the outside, behind Ed Guthrie who was starting corner on the varsity......I had this "fake" move I had worked on....a little shoulder move outside, a brief cut inside, then a sharp cut back to the outside....it worked! I "triple faked" Ed completely out of his jock.... BUT, I dropped the pass....... So, Willard says, "do it again"....but that was it! But Ed was a quick study, so try as I might, whatever moves I put on Ed, I never shook him again. * .....we were having tackling drills, early in the season....and Bob Estes had just demonstrated how to make the perfect tackle.....I was assigned to tackle Bob Knight. Bob was an upper classman who I didn't know him well....and one of the "in" guys, so I was a little intimidated....not to mention that, while Bob was never really heavy, at 125-130 he outweighed my skinny little butt by a good 15-18 pounds...... nonetheless I did just what Estes said.......hit him with my shoulder right in the gut, wrapped his knees with my arms, lifted him with my back straight, drove through and slammed him to the ground..... picture perfect! .... I landed on Bob and knocked the wind out of him; I thought I had hurt him.......after he got his wind, he said, somewhat surprised, "good tackle" .....but no one was more surprised by my tackle than me! *.....once we were scrimmaging, and the offense ran some up-the-middle play which resulted in a huge pile of tangled sweating bodies......and someone's helmet came rolling out of the pile.......David Hogg who played without his glasses (and without them, was truly "blind as a bat")......dimly saw what he thought to be the ball rolling free...... David pounced and covered.....A HELMET !! His sense of touch discovered the error, and someone looked up to see him trying to sneak the helmet out from under his curled up body. They called it to everyone else's attention and we all had a laugh at the embarrassed David who never lived it down. * .....since I couldn't play, I was co-managers with Darby Trotter in our Jr and Sr years....and one episode particularly stands out ....one afternoon about mid-season (I think in our junior year), Clifton Rouse began having severe abdominal pains in his right side .... and while he told a couple of others, he wouldn't tell the coaches. I said "Clifton, that is your appendix....you gotta have that checked out..." He refused because he said "I can't miss any of the season, I need a scholarship to go to college". I told him if his appendix burst and he died he wouldn't need a scholarship, so I ratted him out. He did have an appendectomy and did get his scholarship, and played at Colorado College. Mike Crouch |
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5/5/2007MiscellaneousDear Classmates, I 'googled' casting out nines and got this: http://www.jimloy.com/number/nines.htm Seems way more complicated to me than just adding the numbers! Mary Ellen Stevens Evans: Math was my worst subject and I try not to think about it too much, but I vaguely remember a lesson or two on that. Don't remember how it worked though. Maybe Bennie needs to hire me to keep his golf score! Charles Trigg: How many of our local classmates do you think will be at the 50th. If you have a list, maybe I can help contact them. Kenneth Cunningham: Regarding Picture #34: I think the girl next to Judy Mangan is Nelda Price. I think the boy on the front row far right is Donald Gibbs. #21 is Mrs. Cox's 5th grade room at Weatherly. #41 is also a Weatherly picture, but I don't recognize the teacher. I can identify several in both of these pictures, but it will take me some time to sit down and write them out in the proper order. I work full time and teach part time at a community college. I taught three Biology labs and two Chemistry labs this semester so I am kind of busy with end of semester grades. I also have a picture of Mrs. Cryer's 4th grade room at Weatherly. I will try to scan it and send it to you. Bob Poston: The psychology teacher was Mrs. Smithy. Her husband ran the Hardware store on main street. I was able to take that class as a Junior and really enjoyed. Monty Maddox: Thanks to Bob West for his kind words. I never thought Bob ever got a spanking in his life. Never saw him do any wrongdoing, and he only said good about people. That's why he never mentioned Bennie Hill. Bennie was right about Darlene Stokes dad. He was the manager of Coca-Cola in Borger until it was moved in with the Amarillo distributor. Someone asked about our Psychology teacher. She was Mrs. Smithey. Her husband owned the Smithey Hardware store in Borger. Bennie said he remembered going on a railroad ride but not flying. He is remembering the day the sheriff ran him out of town on a rail. He came back after dark. In picture 14 the person id'd as Bullett Morrison is actually Larry Turpin. My fondest memories will always be Borger. I met and married my wife there and both of my sons were born there. My best friends through my whole life are from Borger and my wild days were there. I have lived a very sheltered life, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn once. Marcia Campbell Pittman: That is really neat that people from other places know where Borger is. Yes, the "stink" was from Phillips (and perhaps other plants out the Bunavista highway). As I have mentioned I lived in Phillips through the 4th grade. When we came returned from out-of- town to Phillips (and even Borger as I now recall) we could tell that we were getting close because of the smell. Another way to tell was the carbon black. You didn't want to have a white car or white coat because it wasn't very practical with the carbon black. I remember us being happy when we got "carbon white". Speaking of Phillips, I understand that nothing is there except for the plant which took in everything. My Daddy worked for Phillips before opening up his upholstery shop. Mike Crouch: ...not exactly a stink.....more of an aromatic assault on your sense of smell!! Clifton Rouse: I have many memories,and most are good. Some are not, which I'll not share. Will send the good stuff some time before '08 gathering. Thanks for all you're doing. Your friend and BHS '58 classmate, Clif Pat Hay Stone: Dan Trew, yes that was the weatherman's name. I remember the trip and remember Ruth Darby being on the trip also. I learned "casting out 9s" from Mrs. Pelley. I still use it to this day, and have tried to teach my grandchildren, but alas, it doesn't compare with their calculators so the lesson was futile. Trips down memory lane are great and sure makes one realize what our children are missing; the freedom we had and the friends we had. Thanks Edith for making it happen. Monty Maddox: I notice that my old high school typing teacher's mother died in Dumas May 2nd. Her mother's name is Jane Voorhees. My typing teacher's name was Ruby Lee Voorhees. She was a very pretty woman just out of WTAM. Bob Knight and I would do about anything to get attention from her. I'm sorry her mother died. She was 97 at the time. I had her insured for about 30 years on her house and car. She drove a Cadillac and lived by her self in Dumas. She was a sweetheart. Talking about good teachers, I note many have chosen Mrs Vogel as a favorite. She was mine. In the 7th grade, we had a deal that if someone made a grammer mistake while speaking and was corrected, we had to put a nickel in a can and at the end of the year we would have a party. It worked pretty well until Gary Birdsong corrected Mrs Vogel. Boy! I never saw her so mad. Gary was correct though and she did put her nickel in the can. Gary was my hero after that. No one but Gary would have that kind of nerve. Thank you Edith for making it possible to write about all these things. I've waited 48 years to get some of these things off my chest. Soon I'm going to take after all the bullies that picked on me during school. I have been mentally tortured all these years because of it. My many failures in life is due to my childhood. I could have been a contender. Maybe you've already noticed the obituary for Mr. Icenhower. Thanks to Mike Blanks for alerting me. Photos number 45-50 have also been added to 'School Days' at www.borgerhigh1958.com. Marcia Campbell Pittman sent these photos and the identifications for them with only a few exceptions. I cannot determine the identity of those missing, either. If you know, please advise. These are all the comments and photos that have been received for the last couple of days. I'm finally caught up!! Edith
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5/4/2007Mr. Icenhower
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5/03/2007Comments, etc.Dear Classmates, Monty Maddox: I just saw the golf score card submitted by a Mr. Bennie Hill. I am appalled by the gall of this little weasle. I played in that game and the last time we saw Bennie was on the 5th hole looking for balls. He only had a dozen and lost them by the 5th hole. He stayed there to look for some balls in the creek and the woods. I guess since he didn't finish the game with us, he guessed at the scores of everyone. He certainly was guessing at his. I think when Gerald and Alvin come back to town, we will probably will be a witness to his house burning down. If it were not for the fact that Bennie furnishes the house, food, beer, and golf, I would not visit him again. He absolutely cannot be believed. I feel so sorry for people like that, they have no friends. On another subject,does anyone remember Robin Barnett, Darlene Stokes, Tommy Enloe, or Henry Caseneta? Some more of the students I went to school with at Weatherly. Boy! getting a computer is fun. How long have these been out. I have a Fisher Price wooden one. It takes a little time, but thats all Ii've ever had was time. My teachers gave time in dh and all the judges have given me time. I have time saved up. I hope I live long enough to use it all. Monty Maddox Darby Trotter: I am married to Barbara Ann. We have three children: Tonia (36), Holly (36), and Tucker (34). We also have 2 granchildren: Drew Trotter (4) and Mae Trotter (1). After a 30-year career as a Clinical Psychologist, 9 years ago began a business career as Vice-Presiden of Community Affairs. I am involved in the redevelopment of KCMO and creation of a trail system: see www.kcrivertrails.org. Dee Johnson: Just a point of interest - when I was in Europe, I visited a little village called Borger. It was a small Dutch village. Here is a link for it on Google Maps: http://maps.google.com/maps?sourceid=Mozilla-search&q=borger%2C+holland Have a great day! Dee Johnson Bennie Hill came by this morning to pick up the pictures and golf score card. When he first brought the pictures by, Bennie thought he recognized a girl in 'School Days' picture 34 as the daughter of the Coca-Cola manager at the time. In the meantime, I have checked an old city directory at the library and learned that the Coca-Cola manager was Charles Stokes during that time. Monty's question about the students from Weatherly listed above confirms the fact that the girl in picture 34 is Darlene Stokes. Bennie said he remembers a train ride to Panhandle, but no airplane flight to Amarillo. He also wanted to know if there was a lawyer among our classmates. He is seeking legal aide to repair his reputation, which he claims has been damaged by unscrupulous folks!! Yesterday, June McFarland Smith, Deanie Fennell O'Neal, Rosalie Mason Overbay and I had lunch (picture at 'Since the 45th', number 88). Deanie remembers the airplance ride and that each student had to weigh. I guess they wanted to make sure the plane did not get overloaded. Anyway, Deanie remembers that she weighed 56 pounds. She's glad they don't make you weigh now!! She remembers touring the Air Force base and hangars and all the good-looking Air Force guys they saw! I remember flying to Amarillo to visit the weather station - Dan Trew was the weatherman, as I recall. I think the weather station was at the Air Force base at that time. I don't know if he did at the time, but later when he reported the weather on the television station, he wore an umbrella hat! Rosalie wonders if anyone remembers Mr. Howard teaching 'casting out nines'. We couldn't come to a conclusion about what that phrase meant, and I don't remember it, but Rosalie definitely does. Anyone else remember this? Four more pictures have been added to 'School Days'. Photo numbers 41-43 are from Roy Cole's photo album of his and Glenda's combined pictures. Photo 44 is one that is in the First United Methodist Church archives. This is a photo of members of the youth group probably between late '56 or early '58. Many of you have expressed your thanks for the web site and content. Your comments are welcome and certainly appreciated. It is so much fun for me to do this, but what has made the site so very special is your participation and wonderful memories. My prayer is that all of you will let other classmates know about it in case they do not have e-mail and I haven't yet contacted them personally to let them know. We are gonna have a great reunion thanks to your enthusiasm!! Thank you!! Edith |
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5/03/2007Notes from MarciaI have sent you the 6th grade music class picture from East Ward. Don't know if it will work or not as you may not be able to see it very well. If it does work, I have some more pictures to send. It if doesn't, I will mail them to you. I have really been enjoying everyones comments, remembrances, and about what has been going on in their lives. With a class the size of ours, you could not really know everyone and basically knew the ones in your classes and the ones you ran around with. By the time the 50th reunion rolls around we shoud already know quite a bit about everyone, which should make for a very meaningful reunion. The reunion will be much to short to get chance to talk with everyone at length. I am so happy that you have taken it upon yourself to do the website-it is a very big undertaking! Sorry that I have not gotten back with you, but have been very busy. Doyle had a cousin that died last month, then we had my mother's 90th birthday party on the 15th of April. There were only 35 there, but she received over 90 cards. I am so glad that we did it though, because my mother has really gone down lately. Carole (Braxton) and her husband, Larry, came to my mother's birthday party. Was really glad to see them as it had been a few years. We have been friends ever since kindergarten in Phillips. We keep our daughter (who lives here)'s two children, ages 2 and 4, a couple of days a week, which we thoroughly enjoy. I can't remember if I told you about my volunteer job or not. I have been a CASA volunteer for three years. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. We are appointed by the judge when a child is removed from the home because of abuse or neglect. We are the voice in court for the child. We talk to everyone involved in the case-children, parents, foster parents, neighbors, relatives, counselors, teachers,CPS etc and write a report for the judge as to what we think is in the best interest of the child based upon all of our research in the case. I have 4 cases with a total of 11 children right now. My latest case I got 3 weeks ago. So, the last two weeks of April I spent over 75 hours working on the case-talking to people, writing a report and at the court hearing. My other 3 cases did not require nearly so much time-thank goodness. It is heart-breaking to see what these parents do to their children, but so very rewarding when you feel like you are making a difference in these children's lives-as well as their families sometimes. About some of the pictures on the website-#13 Is that Jane Nance on the back side on the right? #20-Yes, I think that is Margie Platter. I think that the last one on the middle row is Marshall Burrell. #39- I think that is Carol Yates instead of Lynda Simmons. I do not remember the picture at all-or who the 2 little girls are-maybe someone's sisters. It had to be either 8th or 9th grade, because those are the two years that Carole Braxton went to school in Borger. Carole thought she remembered something about the fact that there was supposed to be a flight, but it was canceled. I thought that I might ask Judy Mangan if she remembered. I realize that there are 50 classmates that their whereabouts is not known- on the list that you sent me, but I have been spending some time in finding out where all our classlmates are from. This is what I came up with: 47 live in Borger, or the surrounding area, 119 live in 43 other Texas towns, (including-Amarillo-27, Dallas-21, Lubbock-9,and Houston-7), a total of 166 live in Texas. 84 classmates live in 23 other states (including Oklahoma-28,California-12, and Colorado-8) plus 2 living in other countries for a total of 252 classmates. Something else I wanted to ask you, not about the class, but about Borger. My sister sent me an article from the newspaper about the donut shop that was celebrting it's 50th year. When I was growing up in Borger, we went to the Spudnut shop all of the time for the very best "spudnuts". What happened to that shop-or do you know? They were the greatest! I always wanted to open a spudnut shop after that. Thanks for all you are doing. How can we ever repay you? Marcia |
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5/03/2007Remembering Mr. KellyJudy Hugg Grimes (Melvin's) wife sent this remembrance of Mr. Kelly. Mr. Kelly was principal at Bunavista elementary school when the Bunavista class of '61' were learning the finer points in adolescent behaviour. It was at this school that Mr.Kelly turned the radio to the world series and 'piped it through the school intercom. We learned about the New York Yankees and the Brooklyn Dodgers.....(I thank that is correct-but I am not known for my baseball archive brain matter.) Do you remember the dirt and weedy, baseball field out back and to the side of the school? Our PE coach was a teacher named (hoping this is right): Mr.Mann? During the times we played baseball, I was less than excited. I ran like a girl , threw like a girl, a girl raised without older brothers. So, all of the batting-string were lined up at home plate and waiting our turn at bat. The teacher took a swing and hit a hard foul ball right down the batting lineup. Everyone saw it coming and ducked except me and it hit me hard in the left eye and knocked me out cold, I was day dreaming for real. Hours later I came around with the school nurse, my Momma and Mr.Kelly hanging over me with worried looks. Mr. Kelly said," What is your name?" I stuttered out the entire answer(Judith Lavonia Hugg), thinking ," I was in real trouble now!" Then ,I was pronounced alive and well with comments to be proud of my shiner-as it was going to be a 'whopper'. It was about 25 years later that an eye doctor told me of the damage to my eye. IF we had known of the injury at the time? Probably, nothing to be done in the 50's to repair my eye! I did learn to pay attention during a game. Mostly, I remember Mr. Kelly as wearing a light tan suit and that he was very tall and broad shouldered, with total authority. I was never in his office again, there or high school. I did shake his hand at my graduation and he winked at me. I was speechless, as usual. |
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5/03/2007Betty Holleman Cook remembersI just wanted to add a little to our classmate's comments and say that I have always told everyone in my adult life that the most fun I ever had was when I lived in Borger, Texas. I know some people do not have good school memories, but I think our class has been and will remain close just because we shared some of the best times of our lives. We have managed to stay in touch these past 50 years and that says a great deal. I definitely agree with Dan Langley's message about Borger as home! Now, to Mrs. Vogel! I had her in the seventh grade at Weatherly. She taught me most everything I know about the English language. She would give our class money if we could correctly diagram a difficult sentence. She was also a disciplinarian and that did not seem to hurt us. I was fortunate to have her as a sophomore English teacher as well as the advanced English class Edith mentioned. So, I effectively had a marvelous English teacher for three different years. We read some very heavy duty literature in that advanced class. I have always been an avid reader and I credit Mrs. Vogel for my continued interest in literature. Does anyone remember the name of our psychology teacher? I think she was also the Student Council sponsor. Her class was a fun class also. The emails and photos have been fabulous. I have enjoyed everyone of them. I plan to search through my records to see what I have to share with everyone. I want to give Edith a great big thank you for the development of our website and for connecting us all again. Other classes are aware of our website and have made great comments about it. I am looking forward to seeing everyone at the reunion. Betty Holleman Cook |
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5/03/2007Pat Fuller McNutt respondsI have enjoyed so much reading about everyone. Of course I am in the dark somewhat. I didn't move here until the middle of my soph year and then because of my brother working and knowing so many Phillips kids, he introduced me to a lot of them and for that first year I ran around with mostly Phillips people. Maria Ruiz and her sister took me under their wing when I first moved here. I will always love and appreciate them for that.I will never forget how scared I was. I came from a very small school, a little larger than Stinnett and Phillips . I thought this was the biggest place I had ever seen in my life. I was so scared when I walked in Borger High School. I really enjoy hearing about all of you who were here from first grade until graduation. I still correspond with most of the girls from Hugo Okla. Mary Ann went to college with one of my friends from Hugo. Joan Wych her dad was a dentist in Hugo. I still hear from Joan. Keep those emails coming, You are doing a great job. Pat |
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5/03/2007Mary Ellen responds to DanHow beautifully put this is! You have it right, Dan. No matter how happy we are in another place, home is where we were formed and is what allows us to become who we are. From what our classmates have all written I believe we were all blessed to be able to call Borger home. And on a different plane I have lived in 9 states and England and have been amazed at the number of people I have met (even in Europe!) who know where Borger is! People will ask where I'm from. I answer, "The Texas Panhandle." "Oh, where in the Panhandle?" they respond. The first ten or so times it happened I never expected them to have ever heard of Borger, much less know just where it is or what was made there. I soon learned not to be astounded when they responded, "Oh yes, I know Borger. My (list a relative) used to live there and we visited.... Sure does stink!" Actually, I believe we can correctly say it was Phillips that stunk, can we not? : ) Mary Ellen Stevens Evans |
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5/03/2007Response to Dan and OthersEdith, thank you so much for all the work you have done. This is so nice to hear from so many. I am having one of my more lucid moments today, so maybe Monty Maddox won't have to correct all my comments, maybe. Dan Langley was and is a truly exceptional, and gifted, person. He is up at the top, with the cream of the crop of our high school class ,and there were a lot. Dan was a gift to all of us and we were privileged to know him and learn from him. It is amazing to hear from and about the people of our class. The memories are so nice. I am convinced that there were no failures in the class of 1958. The worst any of us could be was a bad example, and that probably helped as many people as the many good examples. For some reason I remember the first grade at Weatherly and Mrs. Hanson our teacher. The first day, J.C. Tipton, Monty Maddox, and I got spanked. What a way to start my education. I was forced by my parents to go to school after that for next 12 years. Monty was always around and a very good athlete. Weatherly had some good guys. Hazzard and Hill should take up reading and writing, and leave golf to the more gifted. Thanks again for all your work. I hope all can attend the reunion and all remain in good health. Bob West |
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5/1/2007Thanks from Dan Langley
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5/1/2007More Photos and CommentsDear Classmates, You may have already noticed the most recent photos on the 'After the 45th' section of www.borgerhigh1958.com. Roy Denman sent photos number 86, of himself at Christmas time, and 87. The bulldog in 87 must be our mascot!! Roy, what is his name? Seeing this bulldog and the picture John Harrington sent of Stubby, made me start thinking about our mascot in high school. We did have a real bulldog, didn't we? What was his name, who kept him and took care of him, etc? Anyone remember? Roy was also able to identify a couple more of the guys in 'Student Days' picture number 33. Monty Maddox sent most of the labels for 'School Days' picture number 14, and I thought I recognized 2 or 3 he didn't list, but we are still missing several. Check this picture out and see if you know the missing ones and agree on the others. Monty also asks: This to all Weatherly students - does anyone remember any of these students? They are students that I remember going to school with but they left before graduating, some before getting out of Weatherly. They are: Joe Hicks, Sherry Mcmichael, Brenda Dixon, Nelda Price, Gary Compton, Randall King, Karla Hope,and James Patterson. I asked Monty if he were possibly thinking of Joyce Dixon rather than Brenda, as Brenda did graduate but Joyce was last pictured in the 1955 Borjuhian. Once we get the remainder of the annual pictures of students from the 1954 and 1955 Borjuhians on the 'Classmates' section, you will see Randall King and Joyce Dixon there. There are quite a number of classmates pictured in those annuals that were not in the Soph, Jr., and Sr. annuals. I do remember Randall and Joyce. Pat Hay Stone reports for Law and Order: I worked as an Executive Admin for the Chief Investigator and his four supervisors at Santa Clara District Attorney's office for five years. Really enjoyed it. I had been saving Pat's response to include with others about Law and Order, but have not had any other besides Robert Francis, so am including with this potpourri. Pat also was able to obtain Coach Claborn's address, so I will be communicating with him soon. John Hill sent a note to let me know he was checking the web site. It was good to hear from you, John! June McFarland Smith wrote to say how much she and her husband are enjoying the web site. - My husband is into it more than his and has sent it to his brother in Las Vegas, NV, and a best friend in Gainsville, TX. He loves it, and his friend in Gainsville called and thanked him for sending it and also comented on how much fun he was having with it. They all were raised around here and know some of them if they graduated before and after. Just wanted you to know. In case you didn't know, June's husband Bill graduated from Phillips High School. We always knew we were better, didn't we?!! Gary Moore says: I can't resist! I wonder if Mike remembers Coaches Halter and Cates matching him and me against each other in a foot race. I was Cates' pick and Mike was Halter's. Mike was small and fast, as you would expect of a running back and I was tall and lumbering as you would expect a lineman to be. I don't know what Coach Cates was thinking and you can guess who won that race. As someone else said, It funny the things we remember. And from Mike Crouch: OH, Western Day was a real zoo...... due to our class' behavior it was banned for a few yrs I understand.... throwing people in the water was a small infraction compared to what else went on..... You should get Hazzard and Denman and Rouse and a few others to comment (confess) as to all what went on....talk about memories. Maxine Hillman Roy: I did not check my email as often as I should have until I started reading everything that you sent. Now I can hardly wait to see what someone else remembers. Connie Hood Rattan: Thanks for the good memories! Last week, my husband and I were talking about the first time we were in an airplane. I remembered flying to Amarillo with some classmates. I cannot remember the circumstances of the trip. Reading the accounts from others about those seventh grade flights was fun. I still do not remember, however, who was on that flight and if it was sponsored by the Weatherly school. Thinking of Weatherly, I fondly remember Mrs. Vogel, and like Maxine, I remember her good arm when she pitched those erasures. I also know that I learned all the rules of grammar in her class. When I studied grammar in upper level classes, study of the rules was just a review to me. Thanks again for the memories. And Gerald Hazzard retaliates! The subject of his note was 'You've been dupped!' Bennie Hill has NO SHAME. If you look real close.... it's obvious the score card has been erased and numbers changed. All our classmates have gone on to receive many awards and achievements that make you proud to say, "I went to school with these people". But Bennie HAS NOT changed. He STILL LIES, cheats, and misrepresents everything. Maybe, it's time to think about banning Bennie from future comments regarding classmates. I remember Mrs. Vogel from our Senior Advanced English class. I don't remember who else was in that class, but definitely David Thrams. Mrs. Vogel called roll the first day of class and mispronounced David's last name. He corrected her, and her response was to slam a heavy book on the desk loud enough to get all our attentions and say, 'I'll pronouce it how I want.' I'm not sure, but think David left the class that day, and also don't know if he returned to take the class...it was an extra credit class first offered that year. I do remember that she was a good subject teacher, however. We were asked to read a classic and give a report on what we thought the author was trying to say. I had given many book reports during my school years, I'm sure, but that was the first time I remember that approach...it might have been my lack of intuitiveness rather than teacher requirement, but it made an impression on me. It also began my love of Russia, since the book I read and reported on was The Brothers Karamazov. Edith |
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4/29/2007More from MaxineDear Classmates, In Maxine's earlier note about teachers, she mentioned Mr. Johnson - 9th grade Speech teacher. I asked for further information, since she knew about his later career: --- I remember Mr. Johnson! I'm sorry that he is no longer with us. He was one of my favorite teachers in Jr High and I had really been hoping to connect with him again. I thought I remembered that he left teaching at the end of our year in his Speech class and went to work for Pantex. Of course, even if that were true at the time, he must have come back to teaching and quit Pantex. Do you happen to know if that were the case? I'm finding I have some really skewed memories! Edith Maxine sent this note in response and with further memories:
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4/29/2007Remembering Mr. Kelly
Edith
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4/29/2007Photos and CommentsDear Classmates, A few more photos have been added to 'School Days.' Bob Poston sent number 34, Mrs. Spann's class. Bob also sent rosters of the teachers which will help jog your memories about teachers when we are finally able to decide how to display them. Ann Scott Putts sent number 35, picnicing with friends. Rosalie Mason Overbay brought the picture of her and Gene that a neighbor took when they were leaving for the Senior Banquet sponsored by and held at First Baptist Church. Mary Ellen Stevens Evans sent numbers 37-40 with some comments. The two class pictures were labeled with the exception of the classmate standing on Mrs. Brewer's right. Anyone know who this is? Her comments on number 29 are: I remember our West Ward 6th grade class taking a flight to Amarillo. However, we look a little old for 6th grade. Anyone have a clue about this photo? Photo number 40: This occurred on our way to Lubbock for a game in 1957. The driver thought he had a flat and pulled off the road. The bus immediately sank in the mud on that side and was in danger of tipping over. We all had to quickly pack ourselves to the other side of the bus and exit one at a time by climbing over the seats. Once the bus was empty, the guys all pushed and heaved until it was freed from the mud. We were a mess when we arrived. Our uniform colors that night were mud and red. Many a pair of white buckskin shoes were thrown away the next day! I think the dry cleaners made a buck or two also. OK, fellow band members, was this also the time our instruments all froze and we had to march to drum rims for the half-time show? Mary Ellen sent these photos along with some newspaper clippings. We are still working on recovering the quality so they can be easily seen. Pat Hay Stone: I remember flying to Amarillo. If I am not mistaken we visited the weather station and got to meet with the weather guy, don't remember his name. Mr. Teague was the math teacher...a great one. I contacted Ann Pickel and we will be having lunch on Friday. She and LeRoy will not be at the reunion, as they will be in London. Note: Since I've taken so long to post this, Pat and Ann have already had their lunch date. See a photo taken at that occasion on 'Since the 45th', Photo 82. Thanks, Pat, for this picture! Maxine Hillman Roy: I remember flying to Amarillo when they had the Air Force Base there. I believe it was for our 7th-grade end-of-the-year trip before we entered junior high. I remember it well, because I had never flown before and got terribly air sick and threw up. That's true humiliation for a 7th grader to vomit in front of her peers. Norman Jackson: I remember flying over there in a Central Airlines DC 3. I believe there was a class project or two to raise money to do this. That little project started my interest in aviation and it's possibilities. I later got a pilot's license and worked at Bell Helicopter. I had asked Dennis Hood if there was a date on the news clipping he sent about the West Ward PTA Founders Day Program. He responded: There was no date on the newspaper article. We were all in the first grade in 1947. I don't remember which teacher I had in the first grade. There may be someone that would remember. This is interesting and fun reading about all the former classmates. Richard Martin: Hey, Edith: Tell Mike the problem he is having with his memory is either linked to his birth date, or date of graduation from BHS; I too have the memory problem, so it is nice when your classmates refresh your memory. 'Time' may 'heal all wounds', but it wreaks havoc on your memory. Keep those cards and letters coming, girl. Mary Ann Brooks Ferguson: I think it would be very special to send an e-mail to the funeral home and let the family know how many students still remember Mrs. Etchieson as a very strong teacher. I really liked her in so many ways. And she did use her board many times on Jimmy Williams. She also washed her hands after every class. After you have been a teacher and have that chalk dust on your hands, you want to wash them any chance you get..she always used the chalk board for math. It is so great hearing everyone's thoughts and keeping up. Go smell the lilacs!!! I looked on the funeral home web site to see if we could send a note to the family and learned there was not an option for that. But I called the funeral home to ask if they would forward an e-mail to the family, and they told me the family was there for the visitation and they would give my name and number to one of the family members. Mrs. Etchieson's nephew, Kelly Newman, called me back within five minutes. I conveyed your sentiments to him and gave him the web site information. He was pleased to hear about it and said he would pass the word to the other family members. Dan Langley: It's a delight to read the many responses you're getting and passing on to the members of the Class of '58. Collectively, I believe, they convey those sentiments and remembrances that make our class so special to each of us. For me, there is no one special memory, either of a teacher, a classmate, or an event, but rather the always reassuring sentiment than I was a negligible part of this class but it has always been an essential part of me. The BHS class of '58 is the only group (other than my family) I have ever belonged to that did not try to fit me in but let me fit myself in, on my own terms. There can be no greater gift of the group to the individual. So, to all my classmates, thank you. Dan Langley Bennie Hill brought two photos and a golf score card by a couple of days ago to be posted on the web site. You can see those at 'Since the 45th', photos 83-85. The others are self-explanatory, but Bennie told me that 84 was taken of their group (they get together for golf a few times a year) just a few months before Mickey passed away. This one will be special for all of us. Edith
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4/26/2007Gary Moore ReportsI have enjoyed all the emails and opened my high school annuals for the first time in at least forty years. I would like to pass along a brief bio for Elaine and myself. After spending four years in the Navy, I returned to Borger in 1961-62 to work for Bovard & Beacon Oilfield Supply Companies, and Sherwin Williams Paint Co. Elaine (Eldredge) and I were married at the Spring Creek Church in Oct. 1963. Glen Ward was Best Man and Lorena Holloway was Maid of Honor. Elaine and I had two children (boy & girl ), one who lives in Boise, Idaho and the other in San Antonio. Elaine graduated from West Texas State and taught third grade at Goodwell, Oklahoma while I attended Panhandle State College. I graduated with a degree in Education in 1968. Our teaching careers took us to Alaska, Washington, Idaho and Oregon. In March of 1987, while living in Hermiston, Oregon, we lost Elaine in an automobile accident as she was returning from her teaching job in Boardman, Ore. I can't express strongly enough how much I believe she would have enjoyed all this catching up with classmates. I have since remarried (another bright, gregarious teacher). Kay was a high school English and journalism teacher. She has two children (boy & girl), who live in the Portland, Oregon area. I retired in 1996 as Superintendent of Schools at Stayton, Oregon and Kay retired in 1998. We currently live in Desert Hot Springs, Ca., which is just across I-10 from Palm Springs. I would enjoy hearing from anyone and Edith can give my e-mail address if you ask for it. We would also love to host anyone who might want to visit the Palm Springs area. Gary
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4/24/2007Classmates PhotosDear Classmates, School Days photos number 23 through 32 were furnished by Johnny Harrington quite a while back and we have been working on getting the group pictures identified and properly scaled to display on the web site. Number 32 is actually a panoramic 8"x20" so it posed a bit of difficulty to reduce it for display and still be visible. It is quite a handsome photo, so I hope you will be able to see the folks in it by clicking on the larger version. Both Johnny and Sandra Zimmerman Page St.Amand ('62) sent a copy of number 23, but Eddie Page had written the team statistics on the back of his copy, which Sandra was thoughtful to send as well - number 23a. Thanks, Sandra. I'm sure the guys will have fun reminiscing about those games! Roy Denman sent number 33, and several of the members shown in this one were members of other classes. I was not able to identify all of them, nor am I sure of all the ones that have been labeled. Please check it out and let me know if you know the missing ones or any I have mis-labeled. The mail server has been undergoing an upgrade and security enhancement for the past few days, so I am behind again in posting your comments and notes. Hopefully, I'll be caught up again in a couple of days. Edith
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4/23/2007Robert Francis Report on Law & OrderI am proud to say that I was also a member of law & order until my retirement. After graduation from high school I joined the U.S. Army along with Roy Cole and Butch Francis where I served for 3 and ½ years. After discharge (Honorable at that) I moved to Atlanta, Georgia where I went to work for the Georgia State Department of Corrections. I served as a Georgia State Prison Warden for 20 years. During this period of time as Prison Warden, I was visited by a couple of my good friends. I was visited a number of times by Larry Foster ( whom I used to beat up daily in boxing practice) and during Larry’s visits he would stay a few days and then return to Dallas. Larry told me on one visit that he had always expected to see me in prison, but not working as a Warden of one. I guess we all get a chance to change our life-style. Gary Horton also visited a number of times and introduced me to a number of his business associates. Gary used to tell me that his friends which he introduced me to always had wanted to meet me because I was a Prison Warden. My response to Gary was that his friends wanted to meet me because they had never met a prison warden on the outside of the walls. I have been proud to work in law enforcement and to my fellow classmates, I say you have done a great service to your community and country. I am proud to be a member of the classmates of 1958 in Law Enforcement. I am looking forward to seeing everyone at our reunion. Robert O. Francis
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4/19/2007Mike Crouch CommentsMonty is right.....the coach's name was C (can't remember his first name) Carroll Cates .....his nickname was "Smokey" .....(of course none of us called him that to his face)....a really good guy and a good coach.....Smokey graduated from some state college in (SW?) New Mexico. As I recall he taught us chemistry (or was it biology?).....and was line coach in football and also coached baseball Then there was Lefty Pendleton who was backfield coach and also coached track Wow, I do remember all these names.....Mrs. Vogel....I was looking at my old annual and for the first time in 48 yr saw that she had written me a nice note.....Sorry it took me so long to learn of and thank you for your sentiment Anita. And Mrs Wedding....taught us Sophomore (or Jr) English...she did indeed drive every day from Amarillo...I will never forget Silas Marner....how I hated reading that story. Someone help me out here.....there was a math teacher...soph or jr year......a man ( I can picture him... ....about 5-9 or 5-10, wavy sandy colored hair which he kept short) ....Mr Teague?.....not only a good math teacher but also a real straight shooter.. .......I vividly remember there was a news story about some guy who had killed his wife with a pistol and then shot himself in the head (attempted suicide)....but the guy didn't die, but was in a coma and no one could figure out what to do with him ......this teacher said "the guy botched it....he wasn't really serious about killing himself or he would have thought it through and done it right....if he was serious about killing himself he should have used two guns....one shot from the side and one from the front!" .......Dont remember much of that math class, but I have never forgotten that story, nor his commentary on how crappy a job the guy did of trying to kill himself.......isn't it amazing what one remembers?? I thought I had such a great memory, but as I read all that others have written I see how much (especially how many names) I have forgotten. Mike Crouch |
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4/18/2007Follow-Up on Wayne RamseyDear Classmates: For those of you who may be wondering about the outcome of the search for Wayne Ramsey, I'm sorry to report that Wayne died in 2000. Since Ann Scott Putts had mentioned the Ramsay on Lee St in the Borger phone directory, I looked there and called. That listing was not the correct one, but there was also another which was actually the listing for Wayne's mother. The young lady who answered the phone said she was Mrs. Ramsey's granddaughter and that Mrs. Ramsey is now in the local healthcare center. Her name is Martina Frogge, and she is Wayne's daughter! She moved to Borger to look after her grandmother and is living in the house where Wayne grew up. She called him Loren, so I asked about that, and to get the record straight, here it is: Wayne's full legal name is Loren Wayne Frogge. He went by Ramsey in school in honor of his step-father who raised him. Wayne Ramsey, as we knew him, was a veteran and is buried in the VA Cemetery at Boulder City, Nevada. Martina is a substitute teacher at BISD and was very excited to hear from one of her father's classmates. She will furnish a picture for the memorial page and a copy of the obit, also. She has also offered to help with the reunion!!
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4/18/2007In Memoriam - Mrs. EtchiesonDear Classmates: Rosalie called this morning to alert me to this obituary she saw in the Amarillo paper. Many of you commented about Mrs. Etchieson, so thought you'd want to know. And now we know her name for sure. Edith
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4/17/2007Article from Dennis HoodI ran across an article from the Borger News paper that my Mother had saved concerning a PTA event when I was in the first grade at West Ward. I tried to scan the article, but was unsuccessful. I will type some of the article as printed in the paper. There are a lot of names of class members in this article.
Thanks for the space. Dennis |
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4/15/2007Ann Scott Putts WondersDear Classmates: Ann Scott Putts wrote to say she was going to send a picture. In the course of our correspondence about that and my trying to remember who it was I had talked with who asked about her, she asked about Betty Sue Walker and Wayne Ramsey. I had not located either of them yet, so asked if she had further information that would aid in the search. This is her answer:
I can't begin to tell you how much fun I am having communicating with all of you and finding classmates! Thank you for this privilege!! Just as I was finishing this up and getting ready to send, another note was received from Ann, so am tacking it on here:
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4/15/2007Classmates CommentsBob West replied to Monty's comments: Marvin is correct. My mind went somewhere without me following. Yes it was Mrs. Vogel and coach Cates. Thanks Marvin, when you get older you may get mixed up on ocassion. Glenda Cole Bergdoll went to the 'Contact Center' on the website: www.borgerhigh1958.com and posted her contact information and this comment: John and I would like to attend the upcoming class reunion. Loretta Griffin Hazzard, Gerald Hazzard, Monty Maddox and Linda Wilson Kuroki had a "mini" reunion recently. Loretta's dad lives here at Hilltop Lakes. It was great to hear from Glenda. Gerald had told me that he and Loretta had talked with her when they went to visit 'Griff'. I'm sure I don't have Bob's problem, but I had forgotten who it was Gerald told me about, so I was especially glad Glenda took the initiative and signed up! Once we get the remaining classmates pictures of those classmates who went to Jr High with us and then disappeared scanned into the classmates section, you will see Glenda's picture. Ruthie Darby Laughery called to say how much she is enjoying all your comments and information. She is busy dealing with some health issues, but hopefully we'll hear more from her soon. Bobbie Clark Marcom had knee replacement surgery recently. Bobbie must have sent the picture of Marcia, Shirley and herself on Wednesday and immediately left for the hospital! This received from Bill on 4/7: "Bobbie underwent surgery Thursday morning for a Right Knee replacement. I expect to bring her home on Monday for rehab and retraining!!!." A note from Bill on 4/12 indicated she is doing well with her rehab. Sue Crittenden Hegdal reported that she is back to work three weeks after having bunion surgery. I don't anticipate any surgery, but may need some help from the rest of you to get back up if I forget and kneel or squat down during the reunion. It's good that some of you are getting fixed up in anticipation of that event! Rosalie Mason Overbay remembers: Mr 2nd grade teacher was Mrs. Holmes, and she also taught my oldest son in the 2nd. I remember having our science book open to snakes and someone sneezed and scared the book right out of Norman Jackson's hands. I remember Mrs. Rexroad and Mrs. Tarver (her daughter Patsy used to visit.) I saw Patsy in Amarillo recently. Does anyone remember flying to Amarillo in the 6th or 7th grade? The cafeteria food was great back then. Judy Mangan Wallace wonders if Bob West remembers "Myrtle the turtle lost her girdle" that he used to say as they walked home. She said, "Oh, if I should see him again!!! So looking forward to the reunion; however, I do not think it could possibly top all the e-mails!!" She remembers Mr. Dickerson and what a great teacher he was. Vance Moxom also wrote regarding Bob's comments about Weatherly's Eagles: Our main guy was J.C. Tipton--I remember Okla. St talking to someone about him. Monty wasn't the only young 4th grader lusting over Miss Altendorf. I was guilty. Bennie Hill was another mainstay - a triple threat - softball,basketball,football. No one beat us----West Ward, East Ward, Bunavista, Springcreek were all a lttle weak for us. Touch football at recess was the toughest. I am enjoying this tremendously. Vance Thanks to those of you who have sent picture identification information. We've made quite a bit of headway getting them labeled, but will keep working on it. Edith |
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4/15/2007Maxine Hillman Roy RemembersIn picture 15, I believe Dean Hooks is between Johnnie Sult and Bob Kenimer, and Donnie Lake is on my left. In 16, Eddie Joe Webb is on Jerry Hale's left by Larry Foster. Eddie Joe was red-headed and freckled faced. He was in Mrs. Etchison's sixth- grade math class with me. He was very smart, and Mrs. Etchison loved him. As someone said, she was also red headed. I believe she adopted one of the girls in our class who was very poor or neglected. I can't remenber her name. I remember that we worked on the board in her class and had math races on the board. I think Eddie Joe won them all. Nell Wedding taught me in 5th grade at Spring Creek before I moved back to Borger. She later taught at Borger High. I did not have her as a teacher in high school, but she was an excellent teacher. Her family lived in Amarillo, and she either drove back and forth or went back to Amarillo on the weekends. Mr. Murdaugh was our eighth-grade English teacher in junior high. He was also the annual sponsor, and took many pictures for our eighth-grade annual. I remember having a terrible dust storm while we were in his class. It was so bad that it was dark in the building. I believe that Chief had to go home because of his asthma. Peggy Auld or Aull? was an excellent 9th grade English teacher. I enjoyed Mrs. Smithey as our Student Council sponsor, and Mr. Estes was my l0th grade history teacher. He was really good and organized and we had to keep a notebook which we used to study for tests. Bob West mentioned Coach Cates. He was our l0th grade biology teacher. He was very soft spoken and strict. I remember when the football players would run down the hall to be the first in the cafeteria that he would jerk them up and throw them against the wall. It didn't take them long to learn not to run down the hall by his class. He was called Smokey Cates, and I guess there was a reason for that. Pat Kimberlin and I were in Mrs. Pelley's 8th grade math class. She was an outstanding teacher. The teacher in picture l6 is Mrs. Scott. She was our 7th grade English teacher. Mrs. Sublet was an outstanding teacher. I remember her like Helen West does. Many years after I graduated from high school and college, I would run into some of our ex teachers, and many of them said that we had one of the most outstanding classes that had ever graduated from Borger High School. One of those teachers was Mr. Johnson who was our 9th grade speech teacher and later taught at Tascosa High in Amarillo. He died a few years ago. Those are some of my thoughts that were triggered by the e-mails of others. Maxine |
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4/13/2007More On TeachersFrom Marcia Campbell Pittman: I had forgotten that Ruth Ann Wilbank's mother taught. I just started East Ward in 5th as I had gone to school in Phillips prior to that. I have a picture of some in our 4th grade class at Phillips. Mary Ann Brooks and Marshall Burrell were in my class as well. Nettie Dvirnak also taught PE in Jr. High some. There is a picture of her and Mr. Brooks with a baby carriage - in a play I think in the annual. Mr. Brooks was good, too-he really knew his social studies. After looking at the teacher's pictures I remember most of them, but of course remember the ones that I had the most. I had forgotten that some who first taught at East Ward moved on to Jr. High and some moved on to H.S. Do you remember why there are also several 6th grade classes and one 4th grade class in the annual? Poor Mr. Grimes. He was glad when I finished Driver's Ed. He had to put on the brakes many times. It was a number of years before I drove after that - I was too scared. I remember Mrs. Vaughter(English) also, and Mrs. Pelley who taught math. I had forgotten that Madge Shaw taught homemaking in Jr. High. I must not have taken it that year. From Mary Ellen Stevens Evans: Mrs. Etchinson taught 6th grade math at West Ward. I remember her VERY well. She had copper red hair and very long red fingernails and when she wanted an answer she pointed that long red tipped index finger at you and demanded an immediate answer . From about the third day of class to the last day of school for the year I threw up everyday before going to her class and again after class. I suppose she was a good teacher, but she gave me a fear and complex over math that I have not overcome to this day. Mrs. Echolson on the other hand was quite elderly when we passed through her classroom. I know because she taught my brother math when he was in high school and he is 21 years older than me! She also taught his oldest son math and he is six years younger than me. I think she retired at the end of the year Eddie had her (1964?). She was in her mid to late 80's when she retired. She always reminded me of the teacher in the movie, Good Morning, Miss Dove. I remember taking history (our classroom was in the "swimming pool" under the gym) and art from Naomi Smock. I remember making those 3 dimensional flowers for a booklet cover for some organization she belonged to. Mrs. Smock also taught one of my brothers, as did Mrs. Lane. Thomas Brooks lived next door to us when I attended Frank Phillips. He didn't like me much because I didn't take notes in his class and still made 90s and 100s on his pop quizzes (and aced his final exam). He told me I was a bad influence on the other students. My three favorite teachers at BHS were Mr. Carpenter and Mr. Banvard and Mrs. Cornelius. I also liked Mrs. Henderson. Perhaps I liked them best because I liked the subjects they taught! Does anyone remember the science room in Jr. High that was wall to wall pickled specimens? She had a pickled rattlesnake on her desk. The day we had a dirt storm (along with some rain hidden in the storm so that it rained mud) and was trapped at school past getting out time, I was assigned to her room. Man, I hated the smell of that room. A few years ago I wrote a short story about that day. From Pat Hay Stone: Do you remember Mrs. Pelly, taught 8th grade math? She had a great formula for figuring out percentages. And there was Mrs. Gillespie, taught typing; her hubby was a police officer? From Larry Foster: Sharon Worsham was my first love ever in the 4th or 5th grade. A incredible teacher and a really really fine person. Also we were lucky that we did have some great teachers and coaches. Pinkney Palmer who taught journalism in high school was one of my favorites, and when she passed away from cancer it was like losing a member of my family. Later on her daughter Leanne ran a company for me for several years. And is a terrific person and friend. Lee Palmer was our boxing coach and the kind of guy that made you believe in yourself. I was lucky enough to tell him how much he meant to me a couple of months before he passed away in Amarillo TX. It's great to hear from some of our classmates. And... Being old and forgetful, I almost forgot to mention Mr. Howard who was one of my high school teachers. A great guy who did carpenter work for me on weekends when I was doing insulation work around the Panhandle. He forgave me for not attending most of the classes because I was making a living for my mother father and two sisters as he put it. From Ted Tanner: There was some discussion about Mrs. Wedding, one of our teachers. In my 1957 year book she wrote:"Teddy, don't you wish your mouth was bigger so you could put in both feet." I really liked her. |
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4/13/2007Betty Holleman Cook RespondsPlease let Mike Connelley and everyone else know that I attended sixth grade at West Ward which is where I had Mrs. Etchison for math and Weatherly for the seventh grade. I moved to Borger from Stephenville, Texas and entered school in the sixth grade at West Ward. And yes, she did have a penchant for whipping the boys that got out of line. I know one thing...I definitely learned my multiplication tables from her. I was afraid not to! But, she was a fabulous teacher now that I appreciate the effort she put into all of us. You know she made an impression on your life when you remember her so well. I guess I moved around in elementary school enough that it remained with me as an adult. Some of you will remember I left Borger in 1959 after one year at Frank Phillips (I thought I had learned enough by then) moved to New Orleans and had my first experience working in the insurance industry there. I lived there for two and a half years before returning to Borger and marrying. We moved to California where he was in the Marine Corps. Our only child Mari Michele was born in San Diego. We later returned to Texas, moved to Oklahoma and then divorced. I later discovered I did not know everything and returned to college here in Oklahoma City and earned two associates degrees related to my position with Prudential Financial. I had been working for Prudential Financial for many years and I took a position in Houston after my divorce. I was there for three years and was transferred to Jacksonville, Florida. I lived at the beach and worked for PRU the next nine years. Due to some health problems, I returned to the Oklahoma City area where Mari and my only grandchild Tanner reside. It was tough to leave the ocean, but nice to be with family. I just returned from a visit with Carolyn Baxter Taber. She now resides in Boerne, Texas. What a great place to live! I am looking forward to seeing everyone at reunion. Take care. Betty |
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4/12/2007Class of 1958 - AlumniDear Classmates: Am forwarding more comments from you, not necessarily in the order received! From Kaye Gray Bowling: I really love hearing about our classmates. A lot of success stories there. I read the 'in memory' and couldn't believe how many were gone. I don't feel old, but it has been longer than it seems. I had wondered about some of them. From Marcia Campbell Pittman: Enjoyed hearing all about Mary Ellen-she always called me "marshmallow". Glad that you have heard from so many- some of which I had been wondering about. From Carl Wienbroer: I'm glad to know it's your son who is responsible for the website. Now maybe he can tell me why he left me out of the classmates photos. I loved seeing the picture of your beautiful classmate, Connie and your piece on C. M. encouraged me to make contact with him. He and I were in the same class from the 3rd grade on. I sent Carl a note to let him know I had just noticed his picture was not on the classmates page a couple of days before hearing from him. The reason for the omission is too complicated to explain, but has been fixed now, so you can see Carl's classmate picture. If any of the rest of you, notice any discrepancies, please do not hesitate to advise. I was able to contact John Hill's brother and let him know about the website so John can access it to keep up with class information from his part of the world. It was great to talk with Davy. His class will be having their 45th reunion in September, so maybe I will have an opportunity to see Davy then and learn more about John. From Richard Martin about the jukebox link: Wow!!!! What a great bunch of tunes. Thanks for the tip, I feel like getting up an dancing every time I hear some of the songs at this site. Brings back some great memories doesn't it? Must have been the "good-old-days", to bad we can't go back. From Monty Maddox in response to Bob West's comments: I think Bob West is thinking about Mrs Vogel at Weatherly and at high school teaching English. Also think he is talking a coach Cates instead of Gates. From Norman Jackson: I remember (from West Ward) a Mrs. Holmes 2nd grade, Mrs. Hoover 3rd grade, Mrs. Carol 4th grade, Mrs. Rozelle 5th grade , Mrs. Kelly 6th ?grade. There was a Mrs. Sublette 6th or 7th English , Mr. Steinkoenig a coach that had a glass eye . Mr. Wheeler a Science teacher that made coffee in a chemistry flask over a bunsen burner in class. From Joe Giddens: I learned much from Mr. Wheeler in Science (9th grade?) – and remember his “chemical coffee”. He was a geologist that was unemployed during an oil slump and so wound up teaching science. Had something to do with me becoming a geologist in addition to being an engineer. A geologist could also be called a general scientist. Cates was another good HS science teacher – even if he was also a coach. Learned a lot about photography and darkroom development from Pinkney Palmer – I think the 57 or 58 annual was dedicated to her. Ola Eskelson taught HS plane and solid geometry. She was an interesting character – but suffered from ulcers which I believe caused her retirement. From Mike Connelley: Mrs. Etchison (or Atchison) was the redhead that whipped Jimmy Williams in the 6th grade...she was merciless and Jimmy deserved it, but not me...I didn't deserve the beating she gave me !!! I thought I had a class picture of Mrs Etchison, but I can't find it. I thought Betty Holleman was in Weatherly Grade School! From Sylvia Terry Banks: I was trying to remember some of the teachers many of us had, and I came up with Mr. Brooks, Mr. Stamps, Mrs. Gillispie, Mr. Grimes, Mrs. Biddy, and Mrs. Aull from 9th grade. Nell Wedding, English from l0th. She drove over from Amarillo. Velma Root, typing and business; Mr. Halter, algebra and coaching; Mr. Cates, biology and coaching; Mr. Estes, history and coaching; Mrs. Cornelius, government; Elnita Stanley, English, Mr. Carpenter, band; and Mr. Skoog, choir. Mr. Estes was my Principal at Stephen F. Austin, later South Middle School for the 8+ years I taught 7th grade in Borger. From Lorean (Lori) Holloway Thompson: Do you remember why Mrs. Kennedy the vollyball teacher made us give our trophy to someone else. Don't remember the details just that she didn't let us keep the lst place trophy. Can anyone answer Lori's question? I failed volleyball...could that be the reason? From Bob Collman: I remember Mrs. Sublet - her nick-name was Birdlegs. Harsh, but we were kids. She often talked about having taught Ginger Rogers, which seemed the pinnacle of her career. She spent a lot of time giving Maria Ruiz extra attention, which I didn't understand at the time, but love her for it now. Didn't Mrs. Etchison teach math? She made me learn my multiplication tables through the use of violence, the only thing that would have worked. I had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. Aull this morning and told her about the reunion. She is putting it on her calendar, and hopes to see all of you there! I am very behind in getting your comments posted, so will make this do for now and try to catch up on the next one. Thanks so much for all your responses and for your help in identifying pictures. Will try to get the replies coordinated and pictures labeled completely soon. Later, Edith |
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4/12/2007Class of 1958 - Law & OrderDear Classmates: Did you know...... Dean Hooks was Randall County Sherrif from 1985 to 2000. This is a quote from an article in the Amarillo Globe News and you may read the entire article, plus two others about Dean, by clicking on the three links following the quote.
Mike Blanks' wife was elected the first woman Hutchinson County Judge this past year. Faye, who graduated from Borger High in 1961 was sworn in on January 1, 2007 by Jack Worsham (former East Ward boy's PE teacher) who retired from that position the same day. I am not able to link you to the article announcing Faye's swearing-in ceremony, because Borger News Herald does not archive longer than thirty days. But here is a quote from Faye in that article: 'She describes Mike as her "rock" in her life. "He's always there," she said.' Mike and Faye have two daughters and five grandchildren. Mike and Faye are active members of the Church of Christ at Borger on Bulldog Blvd. The times I have seen Mike in the fairly recent past was there, at Phyllis Cooper McIlroy's mother's funeral and at Nellie Orr Schuster's son's funeral, but was unable to get a picture those times. But Rosalie was able to get a group together for a picture at Calvin Ausbrook's funeral and you can see Mike there standing behind Deanie Fennell O'Neal in Picture 49 in 'Since the 45th' on the class website. Dick Dana is a director of Judicial Arbiter Group, Inc. You can find out more about Dick by following this link: http://www.jaginc.com/Pages/TheFirm.html Then click on Arbiters' Profiles within that link, then on Dick's picture for his bio. You will have already seen this picture if you've looked at the 'Since the 45th' section, Picture 55, on the class website. Leo Hollowell's wife, Tawanna, was a judge in Deaf Smith County (Hereford). Leo reported she had retired at the beginning of this year. Hereford doesn't have a newspaper online, so it was not possible to learn any publicly reported information about her tenure. Betty Sue Weaver Boyter works in the judicial department in Colorado. She is Assistant to the Community Corrections Probation Liason. She said that Colorado's Probation and Parole divisions are separate. Marijo Anglen Morgan's husband, Preston, has retired now, but worked many years as a patrolman with the Texas Highway Department. Nancy Baker Windt's husband, Jack, is sole practicioner of his law firm in Florida: http://windtlaw.lawoffice.com. Betty Cantrell Howard works for a large law firm in Dallas: http://www.gardere.com. She said, 'Yes, still working. I don't have a big enough shopping cart to retire! I do work for a law firm, but in the IT department.' I know for sure that any big company couldn't operate without the IT Department, so I guess we can be safe in saying Betty pretty much runs the company!! I'm sure I'll have more Law and Order candidates, but have been working on this draft for 2 or 3 weeks, so will send it and hope to have feedback from all of you if you know of any. For now, Edith |
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4/7/2007"My Favorite Things" ParodyDear Classmates: Both Carmen Evans Lewis and Betty Holleman Cook sent these lyrics to be sung to the tune of "My Favorite Things". They suggested we sing it at the 50th Reunion, and they have been sent to Loretta Kay Jackson Leonard to be included in the choir program. While there appears to be some controversy about whether these lyrics were really sung by Julie Andrews at an AARP meeting, they still seem appropriate and fun for a 50th reunion song. You all know the tune, I'm sure, but now you can be learning these words and be prepared to sing at the reunion! Maalox and nose drops and needles for knitting, Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings, Bundles of magazines tied up in string, These are a few of my favorite things. Cadillac's and cataracts, and hearing aids and glasses, Polident and Fixodent and false teeth in glasses, Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings, These are a few of my favorite things. When the pipes leak, When the bones creak, When the knees go bad, I simply remember my favorite things, And then I don't feel so bad. Hot tea and crumpets and corn pads for bunions, No spicy hot food or food cooked with onions, Bathrobes and heating pads and hot meals they bring, These are a few of my favorite things. Back pains, confused brains, and no need for sinnin', Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin', And we won't mention our short, shrunken frames, When we remember our favorite things. When the joints ache, When the hips break, When the eyes grow dim, Then I remember the great life I've had, And then I don't feel so bad. |
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4/7/2007Class of 1958 - PhotosDear Classmates: Some new photos have been added to the 'School Days' section on www.borgerhigh1958.com. Mike Connelley sent Nos 15, 16, 17, and 18. There are some blanks that look like this ___??___. That is someone that I cannot identify. There are also a few that have a name with a ? beside it like this Lynda Denton?. In that case, I think I know who it is, but am not positive and would like confirmation if it is you, or you know who it is. Sylvia Terry Banks sent No. 14. I can only identify for sure: Mr. Grimes, Jerry Alexander, Bruce Simpson (Sylvia said who it was), Mary Kay Carrithers, Janet Huckaby, Pat Kimberlin, Carl Beuke, Glen Ward, John Hill, J. C. Tipton. So please check this picture out and see if you can recognize any others. Sylvia also sent No. 20 and 21. There are several unknowns in 20. The only ones I can recognize in 21 for sure is Mary Kay Carrithers, Bruce Simpson, Janette Johnson, Judy Mangan, and maybe Athene Weddington. Please check these two pictures and let me know if you recognize anyone else. Sylvia does not know what year either one of these are as these were Bruce's pictures which he left with her. Bobbie Clark Marcom sent the happy picture (19) of Marcia, Shirley, and herself. Looks like they were having fun! I spoke with Sue Weaver on April 1 as she was preparing to go to Fort Worth for her mother's funeral. Her mother had passed away on March 31. Ann Bonifield lost her mother in Dallas on April 2, and Dean Hooks his dad in Canyon on April 1. Please remember these classmates in your prayers. May God grant you all peace, joy, and love! Edith |
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4/3/2007Marcia Campbell Pittman ReminiscesYes, I remember Miss Ola Eskelson! One thing that I remember about her was that she could smell anyone's gum.She would say in her high little voice" Someone ischewing Juicy Fruit gum." I remember doing theroms at the blackboard and memorizing them. It was the year that the Asian flu was so bad and it was during one of those sessions at the blackboard that I started getting sick. She was a good teacher though. Another teacher that I remember was Kathleeln Cornelius who taught American History. I also had her for Texas Government at Frank Phillips. She was a tough, but good teacher. I really did like Mr. Brooks also. There was a Mrs. Wedding who taught English. Was there also a Mrs. Weddington? We all loved Miss Kennedy in Jr. High and then had Faye Harlin for p.e. in high school. Nettie Maxwell was also a pe teacher in jr. high.I remember Elnita Stanley, who I had for senior English. Kind of a funny thing. Mrs. Imogene Knox and Mrs. Tavia Wienbroer (who were sisters and Tavia was Carl's mom) are related to my husband-third and 4th cousins, I think. We saw Carl at his mother's funeral in the late 80's. I remember a bunch of us going to Coach Marvel's funeral in jr. high-even though we did not really know him. I loved Mrs. Shaw and Mrs. Ruth Marshall. Mrs. Bradley taught homemaking as well one year at least. Mrs. Elberta Sharp was our homemaking teacher in jr. high. I remember that she always let someone go across to the corner store to buy candy bars during class. Her daughter, Clara, taught English I believe in high school. |
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4/3/2007Bob West ReminiscesI remember fondly the Weatherly Eagles. Coach Gilchrist and Lefty Dickerson turned out winners in football and basketball. Mrs Vaughn tried to teach us English, but probably Dan Langley was the only one who learned. Poor lady, she had to put up with some of the meanest little ------ in Borger, but they all turned out OK, except for a few who grew up to be big------ She got us again in High School. I remember she kicked Nancy Baker and me out of class for being late. Nancy was contrite and apologized, I took the rest of the day off and was declared a truant. I remember Digger O'Dell and I going fishing on fine April weekend and the worst blizzard in the history of the Panhandle hit. We burned the outhouse at the scout camp to keep warm and worried our parents to death until we creeped home in my old 49 Ford. Digger never did catch a fish, but went on to camp out many times in the Marines. Anyone remember Smokey Gates, our tougher than nails football coach. Made you want to get up every morning and go fishing or take up art lessons. Remember the weekend dances at the VFW down off Main. Wow, we all fell in love and thought we were somebody every week. The Baptists never did get over it, and I later joined the Presbyterians to ease my conscience. The thing I remember most about Borger is that it taught us to survive in a hostile environment, and it sounds like a lot of our class did really well. They were all an inspiration to me. Most valuable lesson, work hard and run like hell. Hope everyone can make it to the reunion. Bring the walkers, wheelchairs, and oxygen tanks and get ready to party.  |
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4/2/2007Class of 1958 - More CommentsDear Classmates: Am including here some short comments from you. For those who sent lengthy notes, I will forward in their entirety (mostly). Note from Kay Moore (Gary's wife): When you sent the connection for this Native American architect firm, we recognized the picture as that of the Morongo Casino which is fewer than twenty miles from us and in which we have been. Cool connection. What a class you were from!!! Kay Kay is right, and you are ALL very special!! Note from Carmen Evans Lewis: Ruth Ann Wilbanks' mom was also one of my teachers at East Ward. I think Mrs. Wilbanks taught the 4th grade. My computer always travels with me so I will be showing my soon-to-be 95 year old dad the pictures from the class of 58. Note from Pat Hay: Marlene Gastineau and I used to be neighbors. Note from Helen Taylor West:
Edith |
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4/1/20071958 Classmate CommentsPat Hay Stone writes:
Pat also remembers Madge Shaw and her to-die-for oatmeal cookie recipe. Madge has promised to look for it when she next goes to their cabin in Colorado. I remember the potato soup, and still have the recipe in my recipe box that was purchased for that class. I also remember the red handerchief-print gathered skirt and white blouse I made under her supervision. Charles Trigg says: I HAD MADGE SHAW FOR COOKING IN JUNIOR HIGH, ABOUT 20 BOYS & 5 GIRLS. And Marcia Campbell Pittman also remembered Mrs. Shaw. Bobbie Clark Marcom sent two pictures (No. 12 and 13) which are now in 'School Days' at www.borgerhigh1958.com. Bobbie knew some of the names and I was able to identify a few others, but we still need your help to identify the rest. Please let me know if you recognize them or have a similar picture which you had foresight to label at the time. Not a single one of my pictures, either classmate or family, are labeled. I thought in my youth and immaturity that I would never be 67 and have borderline dementia which gets less borderline every day!! Bobbie also said: "Miss Kennedy was my favorite teacher. I have wondered all these years how she was. It was good to know she is still with us." Helen Taylor West remembers Thomas Brooks (now deceased) and E. I. Kelly who was high school prinicpal for one of our years. He was also principal at East Ward. His daughter, Patti, graduated with my sister Mary, who gave me the latest address she had for Patti. Hopefully, we'll be able to contact him soon. Kay Carmickle Kirkpatrick also remembers Mr. Kelly and says she lived next door to him - remembers his children, Patti and Mike. Betty Holleman Cook remembers Randelin Vogle (now deceased) and her sixth grade math teacher, Mrs. Escholsen or Etchison. Anyone else remember Mrs. E.? Our 1956 annual was dedicated to Ola Eskelson and stated that she had been a teacher in Borger Senior High for 26 years, so it doesn't sound right that she is the one Betty remembers, even though I suggested it to her. Ola Eskelson retired in 1956 after teaching Plane and Solid Geometry and Trigonometry for all those years, but continued for many more, until her death, to tutor students who needed a little extra help to grasp those concepts. Betty Cantrell Howard wrote:
Marvin Maddox just called to say that Miss Altendorf married Dick Tweed and broke his heart! Mrs. Tweed still lives in Borger and I just had the most delightful chat with her. She said to tell you guys 'hi' and she is putting the 2nd weekend in July 2008 on her calendar. Please be sure you do, too, and you will see her there! She said she would not break your heart now, as she is old. I reminded her that we are correspondingly older, so she still might! I'm sure she could, as she was such a delightful conversationalist! I didn't have the privilege of being in her class, but can't wait now to meet her. Thanks, Monty! She remembers all of you that mentioned her. Dan Langley wrote:
Mike Crouch remembered Mrs. Vaughter, Mr. Gentili and Mrs. Stinnett. Sharon Cloud Slocovich said that besides Mrs. Kromer and Mr. Dickerson in the three pictures she sent (No 1-2-3 in 'School Days' on www.borgerhigh1958.com) the 6th grade teacher was Mrs. Kent. She wasn't in the picture. Carmen Evans Lewis remembered Miss Kennedy, Miss Leonard, Mrs. Vaughter, Mrs. Buckley and that she had Jack Worsham for spelling. Kenneth Cunningham remembers Weatherly teachers: 3rd grade - Mrs. Pruitt (husband taught at Jr. High) and Mrs. Elmore; 4th grade - Mrs. Cryer (husband was Borger Schools Superintendent); 5th grade - Mrs. Cox; 6th grade - Mrs. Howard and Mr. Grimes; 7th grade - Mr. Dickerson, Math, Mr. Gilchrist, Science and PE, Mrs. Vogle, English, Mrs. Haynie, Social Studies (twin sister was Mrs. Hanna) and Principal - C. J. Jackson. Dan Langley told me you remember, Kenneth, and we believe it!! I appreciated many of the same ones the rest of you have mentioned, but my favorite teacher was Naomi Smock. Not only did I enjoy her in school, but she was an influence in my life until I moved to Tomball in 1989 since we attended the same church for a number of years before that. Both of my children and I took a class in making Chrismons from her in the early '70's, when she held those classes for church members to create the beautiful Chrismon tree during the Christmas season at First United Methodist Church. The tree is still put up every year with many of those original ornaments and is just as beautiful as ever. Edith |
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3/31/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - Bonnie Suzanne Hoopes TurnerDear Classmates: When I first talked to Zan, it was probably 2004. Later we met at the Fish Fry in Borger in June 2005. She was here to see her sister who was also in town for a class get-together. You've seen the pictures on the website: www.borgerhigh1958.com in the 'Since the 45th' Section. We talked both times about what she was doing. I thought then I understood, but now realize after 'Googling' for her how little I really learned about her enormous responsibilities! San Francisco is earthquake safer due to her efforts! And now we know why she is in California, instead of Texas. Edith Check this out: http://www.quake06.org/chapter/awards_2004_zan_turner.doc And this: http://www.1906eqconf.org/tutorials/PostEQBldgAssmt_Turner.pdf See a great picture of Bonnie (Zan) on page 10 of the Power Point presentation. And from this site, the following legislation: http://www.sfgov.org/site/bdsupvrs_page.asp?id=28759
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3/30/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - PotpourriDear Classmates: So much to report, but I had to take time out to watch the lilacs grow! God is so good...they are blooming all over Borger with such profusion and lushness, it makes my heart glad. When I see them, I'm always reminded of my two grandmothers. They were both such wonderful role models, but each for a different reason: one expressed her love by doting and doing such caring things for all around her - family, close friends and strangers; the other one expressed her love by her hard work and determination in raising most of her seven children alone (two were already grown), and she always had 'to die for' fresh cherry cobbler when we visited and the best fresh-from-the-garden blackeyed peas, tomatoes and okra! Both of these grandmothers had large lilac bushes in their yards, hence the reason lilacs now remind me of the fragrance and beauty of the lives of these two wonderful women who had such a profound influence on my life. So now on to the reporting. Your responses and comments continue to encourage me and bring joy, as I'm sure they will others. Those of you who are East Warders will remember Glen Crawford. Glen moved to Dumas after 6th grade and graduated there. We had a great time reminiscing on the phone this morning. He wanted to know about Robert Francis, Gary Horton, and Gerald Hazzard and reported that even though he did not know Sonny Herring from Borger school days, he went to college with him and remembered him fondly. So those of you who may have been at college with Sonny may also have met Glen there, even if you went to a different Borger elementary school. After talking with Glen, I had to call Gerald and Robert and report to them! Robert said that he had lived next door to Glen. Gerald reported that he and Loretta had just returned from a cruise to San Juan and the Caribbean on March 4, a trip he had received as a retirement gift when he retired last year. He also said that he and Loretta will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversay July 18, 2008, the week after our reunion. We'll help them celebrate! And speaking of anniversaries, I talked with Gene Sewell two or three days ago. He is retired and they had moved to Amarillo a while back, but Rita is driving back and forth to Pampa three days a week to keep her beauty shop open. This coming week, they will be in Hawaii celebrating their 44th wedding anniversary. Congratulations, Gene and Rita, and 'Aloha!' Roy Lee Dunn, who as a coach started when we did in Junior High and moved the same year as us to High School, was pleased to hear about the reunion and expects to be here! He said he started right out of the service in November 1953 with the school system, but actually started coaching when Coach Marvel was killed in an automobile accident at Christmas time that year. Bob Estes was at the post office yesterday afternoon, and I had a wonderful visit with him. He definitely will be at the reunion, and he agreed to meet with me sometime soon to go through the annuals and tell me what he knows about all the teachers, whether living, or if he knows where they might be now. Bill Willard lives in Amarillo now, and says he will be there! This received from John Yonkers:
Bob Kenimer also had Sharon Worsham in 5th grade, and Judy Mangan Wallace remembers Miss Altendorf. Judy said:
Darby Trotter sent his picture earlier and it has been on the website www.borgerhigh1958.com in the 'Since the 45th' section for several days. He also sent his professional resume and this note:
Edith |
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03/27/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - Fran and DennisDear Classmates: Just wanted to let you know about the production to be held at First Baptist Church in Borger for Easter. A couple of our classmates are participating in it - Fran Strovas Braden and Dennis Hood. This presentation was wonderful last year, and I'm sure it will be again this year. If you are in or close enough to Borger to make the trip to see it, you'll be glad you did. Especially since you will be able to see Fran and Dennis! Here is a link to the church website so you can get the details: http://www.borgerfbc.org/BowtheKnee.html Thanks to Bob Kenimer, here is a picture of Fran in rehearsal. There was also a picture of the Choir rehearsal a week or so ago in Borger News Herald, but it has gotten misplaced. I've called the newspaper to see if I can get a digital image of it, and it will be included here later when I receive it. I wanted to get this posted rather than wait, so those who want to attend could make plans. 
Later, Edith |
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03/26/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - Dan LangleyDear Classmates: Do you remember that Dan used to write an article for the Borger News Herald called Teenage Corner? I don't know how often he wrote it, but in researching the newspaper archives at the local library for pictures and information of our high school years, I found several. This one appeared in the March 20, 1958 issue of BNH:  I guess Dan honed his writing skills while at BHS! He's written quite a large number of books since then. The 35th reunion book says he had published 12, and the ones I've located have been since 1993. He wrote most of them during his tenure as History Professor and professor emeritus at the University of Georgia, but he hasn't stopped writing in his 'sorta' retirement! I spoke to him a few weeks ago. He now lives in San Angelo, and is presently writing one about Simon Bolivar. What else would a history professor write about other than history?! Our Jr. High teacher, Mr. Gentili, was sure interested, as he asked for Dan's address. I've learned since from Dan that he received a letter from Mr. Gentili. I purchased two of Dan's books because I do enjoy history: 'The Americas in the Modern Age' and 'The Americas in the Age of Revolution 1750-1850'. I started a project 4-5 months ago to read all the Newbery Award winning books, and I'm just on 1969. But hopefully I'll be finished with that project soon and can read Dan's books. Maybe he'll sign them for me at the reunion...then I'll donate them to the library since they don't have any of his. If you enjoy history, maybe you'd like to check them out! He writes under the name Lester D. Langley in case you do. You've heard from Mary Ellen about her writing, and I recall that Mike Crouch reported for the 35th reunion book that he had published a book on TQM (Total Quality Management). I haven't read it, but probably should! My management is mostly slap-happy and is certainly not quality! Bob Collman wrote in July 2006:
For now, Edith Guynes Stanley Chairman - 50th Reunion |
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3/26/2007High School - JukeboxDear Classmates, Mary Ellen Stevens Evans sent this:
A red letter day was:13 April 1956. Amarillo, TX. Municipal Auditorium. Elvis was in the building!!! My mother took me and some friends to this concert. In 1997 Life Magazine published a special edition for the 20-year anniversary of Elvis' death. There was a picture of the audience attending that concert. I was not visible, but Mike Yates, Don Green, Penny Money and some other Borger folks were as I recall. Somewhere, I still have that magazine and if I can locate it will put that picture on the web site. This note was started yesterday, but more information has been received from classmates, so the delivery was postponed to include those. Marcia Campbell Pittman also had the 8th Grade PE picture with the list of names. Darby Trotter sent a current picture - with further information to follow. Ted Tanner sent an explanation about the picture of Betty and Vic in front of the car with the hood up. He said:
Speaking of Michael, I need to tell you that he is the techie guru that has made the web site possible. Several of you have made wonderful comments about it, and I wanted you to know that he is responsible for it. I have a few ideas about how it should look and the information it should give you, but he is the talented one who refines those ideas, makes suggestions, and makes it happen! I appreciate him!! Vance Moxom sent this note:
Chief Boyd sent this picture, And this explanation and information:
Must get this on its way as I have another planned for today...you'll have two! Hope you're enjoying hearing about these classmates as much as I. Please send pictures or information you would like to have passed along. They would like to hear about you, too! Edith |
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03/24/2007More ResponsesDear Classmates, Today received additional responses from Marcia Campbell Pittman, Jean Fish Nixon, Nedra Larsen Black, Darby Trotter, Judy Mangan Wallace, Ted Tanner, Mary Ellen Stevens Evans, and Digger O'Dell. Marcia had a copy of the picture Sharon had sent and had the full names so you'll see them now in the 'School Days' section at www.borgerhigh1958.com. The rest of the ones Sharon sent are also there now, and some of them also need identification. Most of them I recognize, but do not know all. Please advise if you do. Marcia has some pictures that she will send, too. Ted Tanner sent a couple of great pictures. The first nine in 'School Days' are all ones Sharon sent. Ted sent the one of the school with the cars parked in front (don't you just love those beautiful '56 Fords and Pontiacs?) I think the '48 or '49 army green Kaiser I drove is the one peeking out from behind the two black ones on the left. It was an unforgetable experience driving that car! I could drag Main most of the afternoon in it for something like 36 cents for gas, but it was hard to keep it in oil. The EPA would be down on me big time if I tried to drive it now, especially if the gas pedal stuck down like it frequently did. You had to reach down and pull it up with your hand whilst the black smoke was pouring out the tailpipe. Kicking it did not help! Ted also sent the picture of Betty and Vic. We're proud to see that they kept his car (or was it hers) properly maintained! Jean sent this note:
Mary Ellen is planning to send some 'tests' for us to take and also tells about what she's been doing lately. Here is her note:
Thank you all for your suggestions and comments! Edith |
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3/23/2007Class of 1958 ResponsesDear Classmates, Your response has been marvelous! Thank you so much! I’ve received e-mail comments and/or suggestions from: Ed Blackwell, Nancy Blain Lemmond, Mary Ann Brooks Ferguson, Betty Cantrell Howard, Kay Carmickle Kirkpatrick, Bobbie Clark Marcom, Sharon Cloud Slocovich, Mike Connelley, Glen Crawford, Sue Crittenden Hegdal, Mike Crouch, Carmen Evans Lewis, Wanda Floyd Rowe, Larry Foster, Pat Fuller McNutt, Kaye Gray Bowling, Melvin Grimes, Pat Hay Stone, Maxine Hillman Roy, Betty Holleman Cook, Bonnie ‘Zan’ Hoopes Turner, Randy Hudson and wife, Norman Jackson, Bob Kenimer, Pat Kimberlin Mefford, Dan Langley, June McFarland Smith, Gary Moore (and wife), Jane Nance Barrett, Clifton Rouse, Rossie Simpson/wife, Helen Taylor West, Charles Trigg, and Bob West. Some of you have responded more than once, and some have simply sent clips of funny or uplifting thoughts. I welcome them all! Your comments have all been thoughtful and encouraging and they are all appreciated. In addition to all the e-mails with comments about teachers, suggestions, etc., some wonderful pictures were sent by Sharon Cloud Slocovich of school groups and activities. Please check them out in the ‘School Days’ section on the web site: www.borgerhigh1958.com. Some of them are labeled with names, but one has only first names. If you can recognize them and furnish last names, please let me know so they can be completed. If you have pictures you would like included, you may e-mail them or send them by regular mail. They will be returned to you as soon as they have been scanned. The collections that Roy Cole and Rosalie Mason Overbay have furnished are still a work-in-progress. This week I have had phone conversations with Carolyn Baxter Taber (some of you have, too) and Leo Hollowell. Neither of them have e-mail, but Leo said he goes to the library to access the internet, so the ‘News’ section has been added to the web site. The blanket e-mails being sent to all of you will appear there for the benefit of all the folks who may not have e-mail, but have access to the internet through friends/relative’s computer or public ones. If you talk to a classmate that does not have e-mail, be sure to tell them that they have that access to the information being disseminated. As the reunion draws nearer and planning meetings are held, we will, of course, send some information by regular mail. Also this past week, I have been privileged to have face-to-face meetings with Connie Hood Rattan (you already know about that), Deanie Fennell O’Neal, June McFarland Smith, Linda Strickland Holcomb and Naomi Horton Beckel. What fun!! And because of Naomi’s interest and quest to locate Harold Smith’s sister, we were able to find a lost Class of 1957 classmate. They’ve promised reciprocity if needed. I read this in today’s Borger paper and it sums up in a short space how I feel about each of you. ‘You are valuable because you exist, not because of what you do or what you have done, but simply because you are. Nothing this world could give us, such as status, wealth, or prestige, could make us any more valuable, because in the eyes of the Lord, we are already priceless!’ I treasure you and your friendship and pray for each of you. I love you all! Keep safe and well and plan to be at the reunion the 2nd weekend in July 2008. All of the classmates named here are looking forward to seeing you again! Edith Guynes Stanley Chairman – 50th Reunion |
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3/21/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - Kay's QuiltDear Classmates, I called Loretta Kay Jackson Leonard recently to ask her to be our Choir Director for the 50th reunion choir. She agreed, so expect to hear from her about choir rehearsal sometime at the reunion! In the course of our conversation, she told me about the Quilt show where she will be exhibiting her latest creation. Her mother, who is in my Sunday School class, had already mentioned it, so I asked. If you are in the Tyler area and can go see the quilt (and Kay), please do! http://www.qgetx.org/2006show.html I'm sure Kay's quilt, and many others, will be wonderful viewing. Here is a picture of an earlier quilt Kay did that I took at her mother's house a few days ago. The picture, of course, does not do justice to the quilt. It must be seen close at hand to gain proper appreciation for the gorgeous hand quilting! Edith Guynes Stanley Chairman - 50th Reunion  |
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3/20/2007Class of 1958 TeachersDear Classmates, I've already mentioned this to 4 or 5, but for the rest of you...the plan is to invite all of the teachers we are able to locate to attend the 50th reunion. We will include all the teachers any of us might have had from first grade through graduation. Since I went to East Ward, I do not know the teachers who taught you at the other elementary schools, so I need your help to identify them. The school administration does not keep records on prior teachers, only currently employed ones. So, please, put on your thinking caps and let me know the teachers you had in elementary. I have already spoken to these teachers and they seem very interested in coming to the reunion: Viriginia Kennedy - girl's PE at East Ward and later at Jr. High; Jack Worsham - boy's PE at East Ward; John Gentilli - Jr. High; and Madge Shaw - taught cooking and sewing in Jr. High and later at High School. Jack Worsham was County Judge until December 2006, and has been appointed City Court Judge since his retirement. He is in my Sunday School class at FUMC, so I see him frequently. He and his wife, Sharon, were close friends with Virginia Kennedy and her husband (Dyer Bonifield - Ann's uncle!) and have kept in touch through the years. Madge Shaw goes to the Plaza Restaurant for lunch almost every Sunday after church, so I see her there frequently. And I had a delightful phone conversation with John Gentilli, who is now retired, but lives in Arizona where he taught for many years. Please let me know your favorite teachers and let's see if we can get in touch to invite them to the reunion. Edith Guynes Stanley Chairman - 50th Reunion |
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3/20/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - Here's DennisDear Classmates, I recently called Dennis to see if the Jon Mark Beilue who writes for the Amarillo newspaper (http://www.amarillo.com/jonmarkbeilue/) is his son. His reply...since he says it best:
http://agn2go.com/uptown/reader/ You can open the online version here, but I must warn you that it takes a very long time to load, and I have a high-speed connection. I'm not sure how a dial-up connection will work. But if you have high-speed and persevere, click 6 times on the page corner and you can see a picture of Megan! An article about Dennis appears here in its entirety. Hope you enjoy reading about Dennis' latest activities. Edith Guynes Stanley Chairman - 50th Reunion
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3/19/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - Catchin' up with ConnieDear Classmates, I had a pleasant surprise phone call on Friday from Connie Hood Rattan. She was in Borger to visit her Aunt Velma Hood and came by to visit so we could catch up. A picture is on www.borgerhigh1958.com in the 'Since the 45th' section (or click here) if you want to see what Connie looks like these days. She has retired from teaching, but publishes UIL materials under her company name 'The Winners' Circle'. This info is copied from the official UIL vendorlist: http://www.uil.utexas.edu/academics/resource_vendors.html The Winners' Circle - Current Issues & Events, Journalism, Literary Criticism, Ready Writing, Extemporaneous Speaking. Geneva Ethridge, 2420 Durham Ave, Brownwood TX 76801 325-646-1012; 325-642-4995; fax: 325-643-6385 or Connie Rattan 710 E 21st St, Cisco TX 76437 254-442-4527; 254-433-0145 Connie lives in Cisco, but she and her husband spend four days a week in Belton, where he is Mayborn Professor of English at The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. Connie told me about her greatest joy - her family. But you'll learn it best from this link: http://library.umhb.edu/projects/rattan.html Cleatus talks about the family at the bottom of this article. You can also learn a little about son Jason from this link: http://www.lasplash.com/The_Vet_For_Your_Pet_-_Dr_Jason_C_Rattan.php (some of these links take a bit to come up!). If you are in LA and your pet gets sick, call him - be sure to tell him you know Connie! Hope you enjoy catchin' up with Connie, too! She promises to be at the 50th reunion the second weekend in July 2008, so plan to see her there! Edith Guynes Stanley Chairman - 50th Reunion |
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3/17/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - Check out John!
Dear Classmates: When I spoke with John Harrington in August 2006 to tell him to put the reunion on his calendar for 2008 (have you heard that before?), he said he was glad it was 2008 since he would be really involved for all of 2007 with his responsibilities as Grand Master Mason of Colorado. Lately, while prowling around on the internet, I found these links and wanted to let you know so you can check it out, too! http://www.coloradofreemasons.org/ Barbara, his wife, also mentioned to me recently that he served as Chairman for the 2007 Grand Masters Conference of North America and the link for that info is: http://www.cgmna.org/officers.htm. Scroll to the bottom of the screen that comes up and click on the 2007 Conference button. If any of you are members of the Masonic Lodge and you happen to attend any of these events, maybe you'll meet up with John! Edith Guynes Stanley Chairman - 50th Reunion |
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3/15/2007Subject: Kay Carmickle - Class of 1958Dear Classmates: Kay moved from Borger during junior high, but her picture is in the 1954 Borjuhian (it's also the picture on the classmates page on the web site). I received a note from Kay this week telling family and friends about a cookbook she will have printed soon and requesting...she says it better...here is the content from her note: I am working on a series of cook books and would love to include some of yours. They will be professionally printed and sold at the craft mall. If you have any real tried-and-true favorites, old grandma recipes, just anything that you would like to see in print, send them to me on my e-mail and I will use them. I have a ton already, but would really like to use 'family and friends' ones with names wherever possible. If you have a source, send me that, also. That is going to be the project for the year. I have been collecting and sorting for several years, but am now ready to really get to work on them in earnest. Can't wait to see what you send. Love you, Kay Those of you on Kay's 'Friends and Family' e-mail list will have already received this note, but will forgive me I hope for the repeat. For those of you who may not be aware of Kay's doings since junior high, she and her husband Jack Kirkpatrick, own the craft and antique mall she mentions above. You can check it out at: http://www.kkcraft.com/mall.shtml. If you are ever in Lubbock, you can check it out in person! And if you have a recipe for her, I'm sure she'd love it! In 2004, Kay hosted a small group of us from the East Ward bunch at her home in Lubbock for reminiscing about our games playing days at Carmen Evans Lewis' and the Darby girl's houses during elementary school. Ann Bonifield Hendrickson, Carmen Lewis Evans, Jerrie Darby Carper (Ruthie was in Wyoming at the time), Kay and I were there. The fun pictures with the string game that Carmen brought to the meeting in the 'Since the 45th' on the web site: www.borgerhigh1958.com were taken at that time. |
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3/7/2007Subject: Charles (Sonny) Herring - Class of 1958 Dear Classmates, We are saddened by the loss of another of our classmates. I received this message forwarded by Larry Foster which he received this morning from Sonny's son, Andrew. I spoke with Andrew and Sonny's oldest daughter Christy. Sonny had a heart attack day before yesterday. The funeral will be in Littleton on Sunday, but arrangements have not yet been finalized. They stated that they would request some charitable contribution rather than flowers if you wish to make a memorial. A memorial will be made to the charity they name from the class as we have been doing for other classmates. Christy said he had been talking about and looking forward to the reunion in 2008. Now he will be with us in spirit! Please pray for his family. Edith
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2/23/2007Memorium - Josey Phillips Watson Class of 1958 Alumni Dear Classmates, Josey passed away Wednesday. Please pray for her family. Edith See her Obituary by selecting 'Josephine (Josey) Phillips Watson' from the 'In Memory' section. |
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2/19/2007Class of 1958 Alumni - Noteworthy Event I don't know how many of you are close to Kent, Ohio or have the means and opportunity to get there easily. But if it is possible for you to be there, this seems like a 'must-see-hear' opportunity! If you go, please tell C. M. I said 'hi'! Edith
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2/23/2007Tommy Jameson died Friday, February 9.! Edith See his Obituary by selecting 'Tommy Randal Jameson' from the 'In Memory' section. |
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1/28/2007Donna Jean Fauske Ratliff - Class of 1958 Just wanted to let you know that Jeannie passed away January 26, 2007. As class reunion time draws nearer, please be thinking about classmates and help us have a great reunion by encouraging those you may be in touch with to attend. I hope to see you all there! Edith Guynes Stanley |
