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Jan-1999 - Jul 30-1999
(Related reponses to these posts are not available.)

(No subject)
Friday, 30-Jul-1999 19:58:00
    Message:
    Hi, I am very happy to see this web page. I attended Welch High School 1955 - 1958. Lived In Hemphill during this time. I now live in Hickory, NC. I married Ruth Burge from Filbert and we have 5 children, 4 grandchildren. Would like to hear from others who attended during these years. This web page is a great idea for getting to take a trip back down memory lane. Good luck with it! 

    James G. Long


Have a nice reunion
Friday, 30-Jul-1999 11:25:40
    Message:
    Hi folks, Have a wonderful reunion! Everyone please thank Donnie and Reggie for the fine work on the scholarship fund. May you will find this to be a great one! You may find that the old escapades have grown in size, and the walk up the hill will seem much longer. Tell Reggie a joke so he won't have humor withdrawal, get him on the net tocheck his email if you can. 
    Would have come, but Len Murray's (Gary '60) son is getting married, and he is almost like a 4th kid to me. You get a break! Reggie tell the Dawson girls (my cousin Jerry married one sigh) and Libby I said hi sigh! Yes, I married a Copley girl, Libby , and she said "Libby is the luckiest Copley girl she has ever heard of, she got away" 

    John Kroll Gary '62


Rod and Charlene Mabe
Thursday, 29-Jul-1999 15:44:34
    Message:
    Hi Rod and Charlene, 
    Please send us your e-mail address. We are at canray@ria.net. 
    Great to hear from you! 

    Candis and Raymond Thornton


Going Home!
Wednesday, 28-Jul-1999 22:11:09
    Message:
    WV here we come!!! Carolyn Lane Fitch (sister) rolled into Bluefield late this afternoon at Mom's. Said she put her CD's in order, rolled the windows down like the old days and bebopped all the way from Kentucky to WV. I'll be a headed on down early Friday morning. Welcome signs are going up and we are rolling out the red carpet, all you have to do is get there! I'll be seeing all of you soon! 

    Rhonda Goad


reunion of the sixties
Wednesday, 28-Jul-1999 21:08:38
    Message:
    Tomorrow morning early I will leave the cool weather of the San Francisco Bay Area to return to West Virginia. I know it is hot there but I am looking forward to having a really cool weekend with old and new friends from Welch High School. 

    Libby Copley Lai


Darkroom
Wednesday, 28-Jul-1999 14:52:31
    Message:
    WANTED: Used darkroom equipment. Email me if you have something you want to get rid of. 

    jww47@yahoo.com 

    John Wilson


October Sky
Wednesday, 28-Jul-1999 09:36:50
    Message:
    The video "october Sky" sold out in Huntington very early on the 27th. Great for McDowell County. 

    clove@ezwv.com


BIG N--- YOU MISSED THE BIG "W"
Tuesday, 27-Jul-1999 21:46:38
    Message:

ON MY WAY HOME
Tuesday, 27-Jul-1999 18:52:46
    Message:
    Well guys, I am out of here and on my way home had a 10 disc CD changer installed and have my 50s, 60s, 70s, and misc music all sorted out and ready to pop into the thing! I will be gettin' on down - the road that is. See you in WVA! Every one be safe and drive like its your life! 

    Rhea


Forties Reunion Weekend of July 9, 10, 11, 1999
Monday, 26-Jul-1999 21:54:25
    Message:
    Recently, I attended the Forties Reunion and wish another reunion would be held next year. I know it is a great deal of work and I wish I could help make this happen. There were only five members of the Class of '42 in attendance but I saw so many others with whom I had a close relationship. Aren't memories great and isn't the WEB site just "out of this world?" Thanks for making it happen. 

    When McDowell Countians are in the Charleston area, please give me a call. I am the only De Felice in the phone book. 

    All of you, take care and God Bless! 

    Gladys J. Epperly De Felice


Online Real Time Reunions via IRC Undernet
Saturday, 24-Jul-1999 18:38:13
    Message:
    Today I will close out the Chat Room "WVaReunions" IRC UNDERNET I have held open since June 17, 99. However if anyone does come to the UNDERNET IRC, look me up.. My nick will be Kozubchik or Nektarios.. 

    Mike 

    orthodox@gso.infi.net 

    Mike Zuchick


Luther Marshall
Saturday, 24-Jul-1999 14:28:48

Maxine Lester 
Saturday, 24-Jul-1999 14:23:30
    Message:
    Hi Maxine, Think of you often and wondered where you were. This site is so teriffic,huh? E-mail me please and send me your address. Love, Candy 

    Candy


Homer Hickam Web Site
Monday, 19-Jul-1999 23:32:27
    Message:
    I just received notice of the "launching" of the official Homer Hickam Online web site. It is located at http://www.homerhickam.com/launch.htm 
     

    D Skuja


To friends of Roger Spinella (class of '57)
Monday, 19-Jul-1999 01:57:26
    Message:
    For those of you who may remember my brother, Roger, from the class of 1957, Roger had a stroke a couple of years ago and is confined to a nursing home in Va. I'm sure he would love to get cards from any old friends who remember him. Thanks from me. His address is: 
    Roger Spinella 
    Meadowbrook Nursing Home (Toga Wing) 
    267 Alleghany Spring Road 
    Shawsville, VA 24162 
     
     
     
     

    Message from Beuna (Spinella) Parziale


(No subject)
Sunday, 18-Jul-1999 15:53:36

MISSING FRIENDS
Sunday, 18-Jul-1999 15:35:10
    Message:
    HI WAVERS..I WENT TO WELCH SCHOOL FROM THE 6TH TO THE 9TH GRADE...AND GRADUATED FROM GARY IN 1956. SURE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM BARBARA WIDENOR..ROBERTA HULL...WENT TO THE MOVIES WITH JIMMY BANKS..IN THE 9TH GRADE..ARE YOU OUT THERE JIMMY? HOW ABOUT RJ ALLEN WE SAT BESIDE EACH OTHER IN 7TH GRADE ENGLISH MY BEST FRIEND WAS GLENNA GREEN...SO PLEASE EMAIL ME IF ANYONE REMEMBERS! I'M IN FREDERICKSBURG, VA. MARRIED FOR 41 YEARS TO THOMAS KELLY WHO GRADUATED FROM GARY IN 56 TOO..REINA MAE 

    REINA MAE GRAHAM (NOW KELLY)


MISSING FRIENDS
Sunday, 18-Jul-1999 14:29:44
    Message:
    HI WAVERS..I WENT TO WELCH SCHOOL FROM THE 6TH TO THE 9TH GRADE...AND GRADUATED FROM GARY IN 1956. SURE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM BARBARA WIDENOR..ROBERTA HULL...WENT TO THE MOVIES WITH JIMMY BANKS..IN THE 9TH GRADE..ARE YOU OUT THERE JIMMY? HOW ABOUT RJ ALLEN WE SAT BESIDE EACH OTHER IN 7TH GRADE ENGLISH MY BEST FRIEND WAS GLENNA GREEN...SO PLEASE EMAIL ME IF ANYONE REMEMBERS! I'M IN FREDERICKSBURG, VA. MARRIED FOR 41 YEARS TO THOMAS KELLY WHO GRADUATED FROM GARY IN 56 TOO..REINA MAE 

    REINA MAE GRAHAM (NOW KELLY)


71 and 72 Year Books
Saturday, 17-Jul-1999 05:14:03
    Message:
    ANyone know where someone can get copies of the 1971 & 1972 Yearbooks, lost mine in a move from Green River, Wyoming back to WVa in 1981.. 

    Mike 
    orthodox@gso.info.net 

    Mike Zuchick


classmate
Friday, 16-Jul-1999 17:15:31
    Message:
    Linda Phillips Davis please email me again, my husband accidentaly delited your email and I don't have your address. 
    Priscilla Phillips Dean 

    pdean@iswt.com




e-mail address William (Bill) Booth, Jr
Monday, 12-Jul-1999 15:57:37
    Message:
    Tried to send you a message and it was returned. Where is your sister Betty? How about your e-mail address? Elizabeth "Libby" Haynes Lovett '41 

    clove@ezwv.com


(No subject)
Monday, 12-Jul-1999 15:52:50
    Message:
     

    William (Bill) Booth, Jr


info
Sunday, 11-Jul-1999 21:58:12
    Message:
    I would like to know if anybody knows where Becky Jones Lunsford (last name I had for her) is. We kept in contact for years but drifted out of touch in the last few years. 

    mdalton@citlink.net


I remeber carbide. 
Sunday, 11-Jul-1999 11:37:58
    Message:
    Blake Shrout drop me a line. I have communicated with Barry, John Hurt and Dick Douglas. 

    Happy Keesling


Yahoo Messenger
Friday, 09-Jul-1999 21:23:41
    Message:
    Sorry folks....In the previous posting I forgot to give an address for the yahoo messenger. 

    http://pager.yahoo.com/ 

    Enjoy, y'all.... 
    Rog. 

    Roger England (class of 63)


"CAN WE TALK?"
Friday, 09-Jul-1999 21:14:40
    Message:
    Hey fellow hillbillies..... I just wanted to spread to word about yahoo instant messenger. It's a free service which allows you to "talk" and it works great. Conferences can be set up with several people... I have it and it works great. All you need is a mic and speakers. If you don't have a mic and speakers you can still use it to communicate by typing. It's simple to d/l and install and register with yahoo...and even more simple to use.....I hope people take advantage of this .. I know you will enjoy it. IT BEATS PHONE CALLS WHICH COST AN ARM AND A LEG...Everyone take care and enjoy yourselves at the 60's reunion. Sorry I can't make it...... 

    ROGER ENGLAND (CLASS OF 63)

Carswell holler children, where are you?
Friday, 09-Jul-1999 15:21:00
    Message:
    Any body out there who grew up at Carswell in the 40s and 50s? Paul Workman, where are u? 
    Bob Wilson 

    Bob Wilson


Message to Jimmy Hubbard
Wednesday, 07-Jul-1999 09:20:07
    Message:
    I tried to answer your e-mail twice, but kept getting it back. Don't know what happened.. please try again. 

    Beuna (Spinella) Parziale


famous former resident????
Monday, 05-Jul-1999 10:04:49
    Message:
    The 4th of July celebration from the Washdc Mall featured Maureen McGovern. You might remember her singing "There's got to be a morning after" which was the theme from The Posidein Adventure. Thru the years, I have heard that she was perhaps from Welch, raised in Welch, had family in Welch, visited Welch, etc., etc.. What's the scoop?? 

    Dick Douglas


UPDATE on upcoming 60s Reunion 
Monday, 05-Jul-1999 00:42:22
    Message:
    Just a few updates on the activities for our Sensational Sixties Reunion: 1- Ronnie Collins, class of 64, is hosting a pool party for anybody who will be in town early on Friday. Call him at 304-436-4900 for directions to his house. 2- George Jarvis' sketches of WHS will be available for purchase on Saturday night. You can see samples or order online HERE.

Address, telephone, or E-mail for Ed Collins
Saturday, 03-Jul-1999 20:27:30
    Message:
    Contact me at bonzobaily@aol.com. My mailing address is 1603 Arrowhead Trail, Neptune Beach, Florida. 

    Ray Bailey


Ed Collins, address or telephone number
Friday, 02-Jul-1999 20:14:55
    Message:
     

    If you have an address or telephone number for Ed Collins, please send it to me via E-mail or my home address. 
     

    Ray Bailey 
    1603 Arrowhead Trail 
    Neptune Beach, Florida 32266-3111 

    Ray BAILEY




NEED FEEDBACK ON WHS SPORTSPAGE!!!!!!!
Thursday, 01-Jul-1999 13:05:21
    Message:
    We have access to all kinds of sports information concerning Welch High and I guess we need for you to respond to get this website off the ground and make it one of your regular sights on the internet. There's alot of you I know who would like to relive some of your special moments in athletics at WHS. So come on now and let's get the old ball rolling and bring back the glory that was old Welch HI!!!!!!!


Memorial Web Page -- WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Tuesday, 29-Jun-1999 22:49:02
    Message:
    We appreciate the many messages we are receiving to report on the deaths of former WHS students. However, please try to provide specific information when you submit these reports. We have received several incomplete reports suggesting we search county and State records for more information. It would be a tremendous help to this process if you would obtain this information yourself since you often have the additional background information required for such searches. Only with your help and input can we get the In Memoriam page up to date and keep it that way. If anybody can provide some specifics (exact date of death is a must) on the deaths of the following, please contact us at the email address provided in this message: Doris Yost - '65, Carol Mills, '65, Tommy Sorrels, Cookie Byrd, Doren Mabe, and Albert Carriger. 
    Thank you all so much. 

    whs@postmark.net


Homer Hickham Book Signing 
Tuesday, 29-Jun-1999 18:01:28
    Message:
    I stood in line for almost three hours with about 150 other people last evening for the book signing by Homer at the Barnes & Noble in Webster, Texas (south of Houston). Homer is a really nice fellow. He took lots of time to visit briefly with every person. I talked with him when my turn came and presented him with some pictures I took in Coalwood when I was there in mid April. He was very appreciative. When I mentioned that I had lived in Premier when I was at Welch High, he acknowledged that he got the location for Premier wrong in Rocket Boys. We had a good laugh about it all. Success doesn't seem to have gone to his head. 


     
     

    David L. Walker


October Sky -- now "airborne"
Sunday, 27-Jun-1999 23:08:58
    Message:
    My niece and nephew, ages 12 & 15, are visiting with us in Maryland. When we picked them up at the airport, they told us about the terrific movie they saw on their flight from Denver -- October Sky. I just checked the United Air web site; and apparently the friendly skies are featuring October Sky on selected flights through the month of July. 

    Donnie Skuja


Is there someone out there from the class of 46
Sunday, 27-Jun-1999 10:14:35
    Message:
    Like to find someone from the class of 1946 
    would like to comunicate with them 

    Pat "Fulk"Staley


WHS Sports Page NEW - See it NOW!
Friday, 25-Jun-1999 18:44:03
    Message:
    Announcing the latest addition to our WHS Alumni Web Site -- the WHS Sports Page. Click HEREto see what all the fuss is about. This is a great web site and you Maroon Wave sports fans are gonna love it. See the photos, see the message board -- hey, leave your own message there. ENJOY! 

    WHS Alumni Web Site Administrator


(No subject)
Thursday, 24-Jun-1999 23:26:33
    Message:
    This message is from Beuna (Spinella) Parziale, Class of '58. This web site is great. I've heard from a lot of old friends lately. Would love to hear from more. 

    bparz1113@aol.com


Welch High School Teachers
Wednesday, 23-Jun-1999 18:36:27
    Message:
    The Welch High School Class of 1969 would like to invite all former teachers at Welch High School to be our guests at our Friday, Aug. 13 get-together at the McDowell County Public Library from 6-9 pm. Please contact Connie Ellis Williams (436-6656) or me(436-2569)to make your reservation. 

    Our invitation is still open to anyone else who would like to attend our reunion during the weekend of Aug. 13 and 14. 

    Sincerely, 

    Mary Spano Clark 

    Mary Spano Clark


For dumb blonde with email woes
Wednesday, 23-Jun-1999 08:59:04
    Message:
    The only thing I can think of is lack of disk space. 

    Jim McCoy


9/17-19/99 Reunion for WHS Class of 1954 Still On!
Tuesday, 22-Jun-1999 22:35:50
    Message:
    My humble apologies to the class of 1954. I inadvertently removed the link to your September reunion from the web page listing all the upcoming reunions. Thanks to Dean Sizemore, I am now aware of this oversight and have taken action to correct it. Please understand that it is very easy to make this kind of mistake when updating web pages and I would never do something like this intentionally. I hope all of the people who view the web site will always feel free to bring errors and omissions to my attention as soon as they are noted. I'll do my best to make the needed corrections as soon as I am aware of them. Donnie Skuja 

    Web Site Administrator


Old Friends Gary Burks, George Kell, Dennis Matthews
Tuesday, 22-Jun-1999 03:13:11
    Message:
    Hey, has anyone know what ever happened to Gary Burks, George Kell, Dennis Matthews, Charlote Mullins, Danny Phillips, Jean Fain, Eddie Terry and the list goes on and on? 

    Still looking for you all on the IRC.. 

    Michael Zuchick 
    orthodox@gso.infi.net 

    Mike Zuchick


Info for Renee Smith re. Veronica Zamberlin
Monday, 21-Jun-1999 17:40:01
    Message:
    My cousin's son just graduated from Scott High School in Madison, WV. He was telling me about one of his teachers who was from McDowell County. It seems to be Veronica Zamberlin unless there was some confusion in our communication. Let me know if you want me to check in on it more and I'll see what I can do. 

    Betty Chaos Rice


Special Dedications
Monday, 21-Jun-1999 11:17:24
    Message:
    If anyone has a special song that they want played at the reunion please let me know and if the DJ doesn't have it Robert said he would sing it for you--you better hope the DJ has it. Ha! 

    Mary Faulds


Update on Stevie Lou Robinson
Sunday, 20-Jun-1999 23:50:56
    Message:
    Was thinking of Stevie Lou and wondered if anyone has an update on her recovery? I saw on the "In Memoriam" Gay Hopson and Pam Money's name posted. About fell out of my chair. Does anyone know how I can reach Sharon Hopson, Gay's sister? Any help would be most appreciated. The last I heard, she lived in the Roanoke, Va area. 

    Maxine Lester Stone


"Summer of '66"
Sunday, 20-Jun-1999 18:15:25
    Message:
    Dear Friends, 

    I have just returned from Myrtle Beach with 12 of my fellow teachers from the county. While there we saw a wonderful play called "Summer of '66." The 60's music was wonderful, even the younger ones (70's and 80's graduates)got into the spirit of the music. If going that way the play is worth seeing. 

    We are also looking forward to our '69 reunion in August. If anyone would still like to attend, 
    please e-mail (merchant@inetone.net)me or phone (304-436-2569) and we'll get the information out to you. 

    Sincerely, 
    Mary Spano Clark 

    Mary Spano Clark


class of 57
Saturday, 19-Jun-1999 21:32:01
    Message:
    Sure would like to hear from some of the class of 57 or anybody that knew me when. Just like to make some old acquaintenances. 

    stanley Hughes


Live Online Class Reunion via IRC at no cost..
Thursday, 17-Jun-1999 03:46:14
    Message:
    208.142.86.107 writes:

    Every consider an IRC Reunion.. For those of you who would like to Chat Live Online and are leery, let me know and I will tell you where you can get the Shareware Software that will get you connected so that we all can meet Old Friends seperated by years of Living and chat about Old Memories, Children, Grand Children and what ever. 

    You can reach me at orthodox@gso.infi.net or if you are already using IRC, come to the Undernet and do a /uwho Nektarios. You will most likely find me on #Orthodox, #Christian or #Bible. I am on daily and would like to hear from you.. 

    Mike 

    Mike Zuchick


Live Online Reunions via IRC
Thursday, 17-Jun-1999 13:44:04
    Message:
    Anyone wishing to chat Live Online via IRC, let me know (orthodox@gso.infi.net).. If you are already using IRC, look me up on the Undernet I am Nektarios. 

    Mike 

    Mike Zuchick


Welch High School Pep Song
Tuesday, 15-Jun-1999 21:05:49
    Message:
    Does anyone remember the middle part of the Pep Song? It begins with "Cheer, Cheer for Welch High will shine tonight, we're for the varsity..." and ends with "Fight, Fight, Fight with all your might, for the glory of old Welch High." Let's think about it and then let Donnie know. Thanks to all. 

    Bill Tolley


What's New on the WHS Web Site?
Tuesday, 15-Jun-1999 00:05:07
    Message:
    Can't remember if this was previously mentioned. There is now yet another web page for you to check called What's New which lists all the new web pages recently added to the WHS Web site as well as alerting you to updates to other WHS Web site pages. The "What's New" site was updated today. 
    Our WHS Web Site has grown into a multitude of pages, thanks to your interest and support. It is YOUR web site and I need you to help me keep it up to date and correct. Please, email me if you note any links that don't work, any typographical errors, or something that just doesn't seem "right" to you. Generally, if it's a problem for you, it's a problem for the other people who see to the web site. I have no way of knowing about any problems you are having with the web site unless you tell me. I need your feedback; please, please don't hesitate to tell me if you are having problems with any of these web pages. I really enjoy doing this for all of us and I want to be sure you are enjoying it too. 

    Donnie Skuja


Searching for info on Walter James Bowles
Monday, 14-Jun-1999 19:18:23
    Message:
    Hoping someone will have info on Walter James Bowles born 5/21/1918 in Leckie, WVA son of George Thomas and Emma Alman Radford Bowles. Lived on Peel Chestnut Mountain and may be buried in the Perdue Cemetary. I don't know if he attended WHS but have hopes someone might know him or his family. Thanks, Kelly Bowles 

    Kelly Bowles


SCHOOL SONG????
Monday, 14-Jun-1999 12:57:01
    Message:
    I listened to the entire selection referred to as our school song. This is in no way meant to denigrate the efforts, BUT...........after singing the "Pep Song" and "Alma Mater" for 6 years on the hill, I could, in no way, find the tune to be anywhere near either of them. Please advise the masses!

Homer Hickam, Jr. booksigning locations for Back to the Moon
Sunday, 13-Jun-1999 13:40:30
    Message:
    June 16, Knoxville - Barnes & Noble - 7:30 pm 
    June 17, Washington, DC / Bailey's Crossroads, VA - Borders Books - 7:30 pm 
    June 18, Atlanta - Chapter 11 - Peachtree Battle - 7:00 pm 
    June 21, Nashville - Davis-Kidd - 7 pm 
    June 22, Memphis - Davis-Kidd - 6:30 pm 
    June 23, Louisville - Hawley-Cooke - 7 pm 
    June 24, Lexington - Joseph-Beth - 7 pm 
    June 25, Cincinnati - PEN event at Ford Motor Co. - 10 AM 
    June 26, Huntsville - Barnes & Noble, 1pm 
    June 28, Houston - Barnes & Noble (Webster) - 7:30 pm 
    June 29, San Francisco - Book Passage - 7:30 pm 
    June 30, San Francisco - Stacey's - 12:30 pm 
    June 30, Capitola CA - Capitola Book Cafe-7:30 pm 
    July 1, Sacramento - Barnes & Noble - 7 pm 

    Read about and order the book online 
    HERE
     

    DSkuja


Martha Damron Marion - Please Read ASAP!
Sunday, 13-Jun-1999 04:50:11
    Message:
    Martha, tried to email you and address was not complete. Need to cantact David and Bill and Rita. Are you guys coming to the reunion? Give me a yell back please! Thanks 

    Rhonda Lane Goad


60's Reunion Golf Tournament
Saturday, 12-Jun-1999 21:27:15
    Message:
    Just a reminder to all you golfers who will be attending the Sensational 60's Reunion - we need more participants. At the present time, there are only 8 signed up. Remember, ladies are welcome, as are your sons and daughters, if they play. Please note that as of June 1st, The Bluefield Elks Club requires soft spikes on their course. Spread the word - it would be great if we had at least 20 in the tournament! If you need further information, feel free to contact me. 

    "Sandy" Bright


class of 57
Saturday, 12-Jun-1999 16:28:39
    Message:
    I am still waiting to hear from some of my old class mates. 

    stanley hughes


Joey Verdiglione
Saturday, 12-Jun-1999 12:00:31
    Message:
    Sad to report that Joey died on Wednesday, June 9, 1999 according to a phone call from his mother, Maxine, to my mother. Joey had been sick a long time, and died at home in Longview, TX. I believe he was a 1967 graduate. 

    Elinor T. Bright


Cookie Byrd Hazelden - Class of 69
Thursday, 10-Jun-1999 11:27:22
    Message:
    To all the friends and classmates of Cookie Byrd. Cookie passed away on June 3, 1999. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Cookie and ask that you all pray for her family and her son, Jeff, that we may find the strength to carry on without her wonderful presence. 

    Angie Byrd Isherwood


Ruth Ann Cook Urps
Wednesday, 09-Jun-1999 23:47:41
    Message:
    205.188.198.22 writes:

    Hi Ruth Ann, 
    How are you and your family? I still think of you and hope that all are well. It was nice to see your name on the message board. Drop a line sometime..............beuna 

    Beuna Spinella Parziale


Mount View High School Paper Online
Tuesday, 08-Jun-1999 22:16:26
    Message:
    Was visiting the MVHS Alumni web site and see that Mount View High School's newspaper Uknighted Press is now online. You can read this month's edition HERE. I was a reporter for the WHS paper, the Maroon Wave, "way back when" and am so excited that the students now attending school in Welch are taking advantage of the opportunity to publish their papers electronically. Who'd a ever thunk it? 

    D. Skuja

Freida Riley Scholarship Fund Contributions
Tuesday, 08-Jun-1999 20:51:58
    Message:
    Raffle tickets for the autographed copy of "Rocket Boys" can now be obtained from T&T Pontiac Buick Jeep Eagle,1015 Bluefield Avenue, Bluefield, WV 24701, Flowers by Reba, 872 Virginia Avenue, Welch, WV 24801 and the Chris Ann Shop, 88 McDowell Street, Welch, WV 24801. 
    Proceeds from this raffle will be contributed to the Freida Riley Scholarship fund being established at Concord College in October 1999. 
    For more information, see the web page at http://whs.freeservers.com/lottery.htm . Information about obtaining the tickets by mail can be found at this same web page. 

    Raffle tickets now available in Welch & Bluefield


"Corky Foster"
Tuesday, 08-Jun-1999 11:11:11
    Message:
    This message is for Kay Marie Comuntzis-Getsinger and Dean Sizemore. I am Corky Foster's Brother, If you will send me your physical address I can send you some information. My address is 2809 Hall Lane Winston-Salem, NC 27127 
    Thank-you 

    Walt Foster


Showing NOW - See the new Web Page on Movie Memories
Sunday, 06-Jun-1999 12:19:46
    Message:
    This is a production sure to warm your hearts; one you definitely don't want to miss. See "Movie Memories" now. To get your show ticket, click HERE.


Message for Geraldine Belcher McDaniel
Saturday, 05-Jun-1999 22:15:54
    Message:
    A letter with all of the reunion info was sent to you at the same address shown in your posting about eight days ago. It has not been returned to me by the post office. 

    If you can't find it please send me an e-mail. I tried to e-mail you directly with this message but your e-mail address in your posting is incommplete. 

    Warm regards, Blake, WHS-'51 

    Blake Shrout


The Rowdy Class Of 1977
Friday, 04-Jun-1999 21:11:25
    Message:
    Hello bookworms and bums,is anyone out there?

LOOKING FOR VERONICA ZAMBERLAN
Wednesday, 02-Jun-1999 17:27:02
    Message:
    If anyone has information of how I can reach or locate Veronica who graduated around 63-65, please contact me at my e-mail address. thank you. 

    Renee Allen


memorials
Wednesday, 02-Jun-1999 10:38:20
    Message:
    Blake Shrout posted his memorial re David Grubb whom I had completely forgotten. It jogged my memory and I recalled what a fine human being he was and how nice he had been to me in my childhood. It made me think of others from WHS who had died in service, namely, Corky Foster who everyone remembers for his devotion to country. But who else remembers Shirley Webb who played varsity football as a freshman before dropping out of school and going to Korea as a 16 year old and being killed? It occured to me that this bulletin board would be a fitting and proper place to record the names and remembrances of our classmates who were killed while in the service of our country. It would be inappropriate to forget them. 

    richard douglas


Wondering how many singles are out there?
Tuesday, 01-Jun-1999 21:03:18
    Message:
    208.27.190.95 writes:

    I was just wondering how many single people I could find? I am still single,,I graduated Welch High in 73. 

    Mary Osborne



Welch ,class of 57
Monday, 31-May-1999 22:47:43
    Message:
    I have really enjoyed hearing from some of my old class mates and would love to hear from some more of you.I am living in Lexington, S>C> if any of you are close by let me know. 

    Stanley Hughes


In Memoriam: David Grubb
Monday, 31-May-1999 16:09:57
    Message:
    David was at least a couple of years older, so that would make him a Welch High graduate in 1948 or 1949. 

    He lived down on Summers Street and, even after nearly fifty years, I can remember him as being one of the friendliest guys you would ever want to meet. 

    But, there is one point about David that I can still remember as if it were yesterday. David Grubb had the widest sweeping, sharpest breaking curve ball that you would ever not want to stand in against! 

    David gave his life in the Korean War. 

    To him, and to all of the other Welch High School students and graduates who have fallen, before and since, we remember and we thank you. 

    Blake Shrout 
    COL US Army (Retired) 
    WHS-'51 

    Blake Shrout


McDowell County Genealogy Site
Sunday, 30-May-1999 13:49:38
    Message:
    George Conner, former BCHS Owl, was kind enough to inform us about this site. See it HERE

Where have you been ole man
Saturday, 29-May-1999 21:44:06
    Message:
    208.252.239.237 writes:

    Blake Shrout from Happy Keeslihg 

    You are a member of the "stone age". Stories of your death have been greatly exagerated. 

    Drop me a line. One of my sons lives in Herndon he grew up on Sterling Park. We were there 25 years. 

    lHappy Keesling



Helen Snead Sine
Friday, 28-May-1999 23:57:57
    Message:
    Helen, I've been trying to locate you home address, but for the moment I have mislaid it. Thanks very much for the info on the Maroon Wave Web page. After receiving your note I noticed that someone there wanted Walter Morris' address. I put notice here on the board that he had died some time ago. I'm not sure that you view this "board" so hope that someone will tell you about it. Hope you have a great reunion this summer. Dick St. Clair 

    Dick St. Clair


LINDA HURT OSVALD IS 52 TODAY ALSO!
Friday, 28-May-1999 18:35:56
    Message:
    HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY FRIEND - 
    Couldn't let you get by since I was posted in caps! Ain't old age just great?! Hope you have a wonderful day and many more to follow!

RHEA ROMANS WORSHAM HAS A BIRTHDAY!!!!
Friday, 28-May-1999 11:25:46
    Message:
    JUST SO EVERYONE WILL KNOW, RHEA ROMANS WORSHAM IS CELEBRATING ANOTHER BIRTHDAY! IF YOU DON'T SEND HER "BIRTHDAY WISHES", REST ASSURED SHE'LL REMIND YOU THAT YOU FORGOT HER ON THIS, HER 54TH BIRTHDAY! (LOL!)

The Picture Show
Wednesday, 26-May-1999 00:30:11
    Message:
    Quite a few have responded about movies at the Pocahontas, Temple and other flick palaces in our past. I hope to have final response to Donnie within 10 days. I think this is going to be fun. 

    Richard Ramella


where is cookie byrd
Tuesday, 25-May-1999 22:23:05
    Message:


 
Message for Scott Blankenship
Monday, 24-May-1999 16:03:45
    Message:
    Your Dad was indeed in the Class of 1951. I don't remember the stone age, but your message was very timely. 

    The letters announcing our next class reunion were mailed out this very morning. Your Dad's went to a new address we have for him in Dana Point, California. 

    Maybe you can join him next year back in Almost Heaven. 

    Regards, Blake, WHS-51 

    Blake Shrout


Sixties Reunion web site
Friday, 21-May-1999 22:07:15
    Message:
    Some of ou may be having a problem getting the 60s reunion web site to load on your PC. We don't know what the problem is but are looking into it. In the meantime, if you want to read the new student entries, click HERE.

    If you want to enter your background information, click HERE.
    Sorry for the inconvenience. 

    Don Juan Skuja


Class of "63"
Thursday, 20-May-1999 21:59:40

Are you ready for a page dedicated to Welch High Athletics?
Thursday, 20-May-1999 20:35:14
    Message:
    My buddy and myself are armed with an array of photos from the 1920's and up are willing to submit them to the webmaster for her approval and a few commentaries. Even pictures of Helen Eichart Hardison when she was an All-State ladies basketball player for the then Welch Kittens. Please give us some Feedback so we can get the ok to pursue the our Maroon Wave athletes

Steve Bary
Thursday, 20-May-1999 09:34:38
    Message:
    Dear Steve, 

    Received your first e-mail; and unfortunately, I didn't get your address. There was a second e-mail from you, but it was a VIRUS! Any ideas. Waiting to hear from you. 

    Jo Anne 

    Jo Anne (Reed) Dunfee


More WHS history a.k.a blasts from the past
Wednesday, 19-May-1999 23:01:00
    Message:
    Hi everybody! Here's another quote from my old senior year paper on the history of the school: 
    Construction of a new gymnasium between the grade school and high school was begun during the school year of 1938-1939. Peggy Hylton Jones asked to be recognized during a meeting of the student body and moved "that the colors of Welch High School be changed to Maroon and White." After much discussion the motion finally carried. A contest was held to design a school seal. The student body accepted the seal designed by Hewelett Steller and Betty Williams. Also in this historic year Howard Johnson was judged the best actor in the State Drama Contest, and Vernon Lay was judged the State Champion Drum Major. Evelyn Harris was the valedictorian. The football team becam county champs, and Leo Signaigo became the first Welch player to place on the All-State Basketball Team. 
    Does anyone know what the school colors were before they became maroon and white in 1939? 
    Before the yearbook was titled "On the Hill," back in the pre-Depression era the WHS yearbook was the "Black Diamond." The first name for the school paper was the "Little Mountaineer." Those were the current names when "Pop" Hollandsworth became principal in 1929. He would serve the longest tenure of any WHS principal--24 years. 
    Enough trivia for now. 
    By the way, my wife Stacy and I are expecting baby number two around the due date of Nov. 6! 
    Yes, I'm 48, and pregnant again! Well, Stacy is anyway. See y'all later. Ray 

    Ray Kiser '69


anyone having trouble with e-mail
Wednesday, 19-May-1999 16:44:21
    Message:
    Is anyone else having trouble sending or receiving e-mail from this website? When I sent several e-mails to friends they did not answer back until one contacted me and stated that when they tried to return an e-mail with the address that was attached to my e-mail (address assigned from this site not my address)that they received a message that the e-mail was not deliverable. 

    Who do we report this to? Does anyone know? 

    Renee (Smith) Allen


Hey Dickie Andis
Wednesday, 19-May-1999 10:15:08
    Message:
    Dickie: 

    I've tried to send you three messages and my computer keeps saying I have an "invalid address" for you. My email is luvwv@yahoo.com. Would love to hear from you and Darlene. 

    Diane Turner Clemins 
    WHS Class of l970


WHERE ARE THE PERPETRATORS?
Monday, 17-May-1999 22:39:39
    Message:
    Come clean you hideous vandals. Was it punishment enough for merely scrubbing that fountain with toothbrushes and getting deported to military school. Where are your consciences? Think about all those exotic lives that were lost as a result of a Tide Box. Think back to that dismal day and the laughter erupting from WHS. How are your lives today and think of those aquatic creatures who might have made it on board the CALYPSO!!!!!!!!! 

    Tom Callaway


Class of 1961
Monday, 17-May-1999 20:50:58
    Message:
    Where is every one from the class of 1961? I would love to locate Beverly Vallo & Karen VanFleet. 

    I am living on Hilton Head Island in S. C. Would love to attend the reunion.....any one from the class of 1961 attending? 

    Karen Charlton (Grubb Dinsmore)


Aug. '69 reunion
Monday, 17-May-1999 09:45:51
    Message:
    Hello 69'ers, 

    We have extended the deadline for our Aug. reunion until the end of this month(May). Please 
    get your registration and check into Connie or me 
    by then. If you need more time,please let me know. We need an accurate count before we can continue with our plans. 

    Sincerely, 

    Mary Spano Clark 
    Connie Ellis Williams 

    Mary Spano Clark


Southern WV in National Geographic
Sunday, 16-May-1999 23:23:12
    Message:
    The June 1999 edition of National Geographic has an article on the New River and some great pictures of Fayette and Summers county and the New River Gorge Bridge in Hinton, WV. If you haven't been home for a while, you might enjoy these views of the mountains. The trees are beautiful...majestic and so grand.

Popular Web Site
Sunday, 16-May-1999 14:34:19
    Message:
    From the company who keeps track of the number of times people visit the WHS Alumni Web Site: Since 1/19/99 the site has been visited 30,645 times. Average number of visits per week is 1400. Visitors are accessing the site using networks from as far away as Australia, Turkey, Japan, Germany, Sweden, Italy and Canada. Popularity of the WHS Alumni Web Site is extremely high when compared to similar type web sites which average, at most, a few hundred visits per week.

RENEE SMITH
Saturday, 15-May-1999 16:17:21
    Message:
    TRIED TO REPLY TO YOUR EMAIL AND IT WAS RETURNED AS UNDELIVERABLE. TRY AGAIN AND LET ME KNOW WHAT YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IS. 

    JANE DAMRON


Think of you often
Saturday, 15-May-1999 21:17:16
    Message:
    208.161.40.160 writes:

    Leona, I think about you so often and wonder where you are and how-what you are doing. If you receive this my email address is above (I hope I filled it in correctly) otherwise here it is caroline@northarkansas.net. I am wondering if you would even remember me - Caroline Allen lived in the Libby Bldg - worked in the Flat Iron and the theaters ushering?? Hope to hear from you and talk about those days. I think I am older than anyone on this beautiful connection. 

    Leona Benefield 


"Corky" Foster
Saturday, 15-May-1999 09:33:32
    Message:
    Does anyone remember Julian Cartwright"Corky" Foster? He had political ambitions of becoming Governor of West Virginia and U.S. Senator. Instead, he went back into the Marines after graduating from WVU and died in VietNam. He would have made a great and courageous political leader for our state and country. I miss him still. 

    Kay Marie Comuntzis-Getsinger


Class of 57
Friday, 14-May-1999 15:30:45
    Message:
    Attended WHS during 1954-55 and then left to see the world. Would have graduated with class of 57. I remember lots of hard times, but also the good times. If anyone sees Ronnie Thompson or Dexer Dillon (Class of 57), please tell my friends that Oda Stout from Premier of many years ago said hello. Also, can anyone put me on the mailing list for the WHS class of 57 reunion in 2001. Thanks. 
     

    Oda Stout


Marta Kay '67
Thursday, 13-May-1999 09:51:00
    Message:
    Marta I know you are out there. I read your info on the guest book. I mailed a letter to you at the last address I had but it came back. Please send me your address or register on the web page for the reunion July 31 1999 at the Blfd. Holiday Inn. 

    Mary Faulds


Plane Crash
Wednesday, 12-May-1999 21:50:15
    Message:
    Dante Castrodale, husband of Sherry Compton Castrodale,class of 67, was one of eight returning from a meeting in W. Palm Beach who survived a crash of their Vecellio and Grogan corporate jet on April 17 as it tried to land at the airport in Beckley, WV. All sustained several injuries, three of them critically injured. It looks as if all of them are on the road to recovery. God was looking out for all of them. 

    for all the civtims.


to all my friends so nice to hear from you!
Wednesday, 12-May-1999 21:20:26
    Message:
    I have heard from some friends. It was really exciting, after all these years. Continue the E-mail. 

    Ann Tucker-Rosch


Getting even with Mr. Richardson (The Principal)
Wednesday, 12-May-1999 18:55:31
    Message:
    My name is Charles (Chuck) Campbell, class of 56. 
    What can I say that hasn’t been said about this web site and the people who put it together. Thanks for a job well done. I attended grades 1 through 6 on the hill then went to Hemphill Caples for grades 7 through 9, then back to Welch for 10th and 11th. It was my senior year and after 3 other boys and myself had a disagreement with the principal, Mr. Richardson (affectionately known as chrome dome or the Beak) we decided we would show him and enlist in the Air Force. I think we must have walked on the grass. I still remember the way he said, “ah right you boys, get off the grass.” I had fantasies about all of us staying together and traveling to far off exotic places. Wrong… Before being accepted we had to go back and talk to Mr. Richardson at which time I remember him telling us “you boys are making a big mistake and will never amount to anything.” I don’t know what happened to the others and I can’t remember their names. One thing for sure, we didn’t stay together. I still haven’t decided if I have amounted to anything, but I have had a very good healthy and happy life. I spent 18 years in the Air Force and flew the world as a Flight Engineer on a C-130 Aircraft. I started a couple of businesses in Fairfax, Virginia and retired at age 54. I’m enjoying life with my sole mate Shirley Vaughan of Roanoke and Fairfax. We live in Fairfax, VA and have a home in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida where we try to spend as much time as possible. I have 3 children Debbie, Cindy, and Chuck Jr. 

    One of the most memorable and enjoyable events of my life was the 35th reunion of the class of 56 held at the Holiday Inn in Bluefield on July 19th and 20th 1991. 
    It was there that I had the privilege of sharing my life passion of Music and Flying with my classmates. I was honored to fly approximately 15 of them from Bluefield to Welch on an aerial sightseeing trip. Then having brought my band, The Campbell Brothers Band, from Northern Virginia, we played for the Saturday night dance. Yes, it’s been a good life and I’m thankful and proud to call Welch, West Virginia my hometown. I’m also proud to have had Mr. Richardson as my principal. Would love to hear from any classmates. Email me at chuckfly4u@aol.com 

    Charles (Chuck) Campbell Class of 56


WELCH
Wednesday, 12-May-1999 13:17:02
    Message:
    Where are the Band Members?? 70-74 
    allenwelch@hotmail.com 

    Allen Welch


looking for veronica zamberlan
Tuesday, 11-May-1999 00:31:45
    Message:
    I am looking for veronica munretta zamberlan who graduated from WHS in the late 60's. 

    please email me with any information. 

    renee smith 


1960's RECORD HOP !
Monday, 10-May-1999 18:38:49
    Message:
    Does anyone out there remember what year the Record Hop began at the Pocahantas theater on Saturday mornings and what year it stopped. Our DJ, Russ Cook, any info on him? I think he enjoyed our antics as much as we did. This is where all the new dance steps were practiced. Can you name a few? Who do you think was the best dancer that we all watched with envy? (male and female)

Going to the Movies in Welch
Monday, 10-May-1999 18:12:30
    Message:
    Remember those wonderful old theaters in Welch? Richard Ramella is asking you to share some of your movie memories with him. Your responses will be be used for an article about Going to the Movies in Welch (and surrounding towns.)to be published on our WHS Alumni Web Site in the near future. 

Golf Tournament for 60s Reunion
Monday, 10-May-1999 17:45:05
    Message:
    All you folks, LADIES and gentlemen, attending the 60s reunion 7/30-31/99 are invited to participate in a golf tournament at the Bluefield Elks Club. It will begin Saturday at 9AM. More information can be obtained at the Sensational Sixties web page. Please contact Sandy Bright if you wish to register or if you have any questions.

Welch spirit
Monday, 10-May-1999 00:59:37
    Message:
    209.183.93.26 writes:

    Great job on this site. Have never, will never forget the good times growing up in McDowell County. Most of the best people I've known come from there. Next to Gary, Welch is #1. Seriously we wouldn't have spent so much time in Welch if you guys weren't such great people. Any coming to or thru Indy call (317)881-4471. 

    John Kroll Gary 62


(No subject)
Sunday, 09-May-1999 05:11:43
    Message:
    152.163.201.198 writes:

    where is cookie byrd


Rush J. Smith
Sunday, 09-May-1999 20:31:32
    Message:
    Rush graduated from Welch High School in 1965 and I am sorry to report that he passed away this past March (1999). We had moved from Welch in the early 80's and didn't think to have his obituary posted in the local newspapers. 

    LaDonna Smith, Class of 1974 

    LaDonna Smith


1969 AUG. REUNION
Sunday, 09-May-1999 18:33:43
    Message:
    Hello 69'ers 

    Just a note to say get your registration form and money in to Connie or me as soon as possible. Our deadline is this Sat., May 15. If you need more time e-mail me and let me know. We need to let the Holiday Inn know if we need more space for the dinner and dance. 

    Sincerely, 

    Mary Spano Clark 

    Mary Spano Clark


CLASS OF 53 - WHERE ARE YOU
Saturday, 08-May-1999 08:50:54
    Message:
    Where is everyone from 1953. I only have a couple of people what have contacted me. 
    Come on guys, lets get it together so we can get togather. 

    Samuel Franklin Reeves (Frank)


e-mail
Friday, 07-May-1999 09:19:46
    Message:
    Hey folks, 

    I am now a new internet user and can recieve e-mail. 

    I hope to hear from any Welch Grads. 

    Ronnie C. 

    Ronnie Collins / class of 64


Re: It's Not "Our" Welch High School
Thursday, 06-May-1999 15:52:51
    Message:
    With regard to the picture post card which I suggested was not circa early 1930's and not the actual Welch High School building where we all attended classes; brother Barry (WHS - '52) has come up with a history book affording some more support. 

    According to that source the new Grade School on the Hill was built in 1923. That is the same year the original High School on the Hill burned to the ground. So, in 1924 they build the new "our" High School to match the just completed and much larger Grade School. 

    Incidentally, the new Junior High and Gym were not built/opened until around 1938/1939 (I was there for that). 

    So, that attractive post card, which appears to be a hand-tinted black and white photograph is probably from around the time of the First World War, or early 1920's at the latest. 

    However, it would still be nice to have a source, with a picture, confirming that the postcard is indeed of the old original school which burned down in 1923. 

    Warm Regards, Blake, WHS-'51, OTH-12 
     

    Blake Shrout


1978 W.H.S.\1979M.V.H.S/
Thursday, 06-May-1999 00:56:51
    Message:
    Hi! 
    Rick Lester,1978 Welch High School, Last Graduating Class. And Kathy (Lane) Lester, First Graduating Class of Mt. View,1979'We would like to commend the persons responsible for this site, It is really cool to see Whats Up with everyone,Without ever leaving the House.(Great Site).....Bravo!!.................(yes)....... 
    , We did Marry on March,15 1980............... 
    (And are still),to all of you 
    skeptics that said ,It will Never last........ 
    We have a Son Ricky Dewayne Lester Jr.(R.W.) He was 18 on March, 17............................. 
    We have lived in North Carolina since 1983,Frequently visiting the Welch area.......... 
    However,We would like to hear from old Friends/Accquaitances...Our E-Mail address is:(kokolester@surry.net)You can reach Either Kathy or Myself @ this E-Mail address. 
    We are still new to the Computer,only been on-line a few Months, but We know enough to answer Your E-Mail,if You so desire to send one........................................... 

    P.S. Write Soon! We will be checking our E-mail regularly (Write even if You Did'nt like Me Tell Me Why and perhaps I can fix it........... 

    Or, Maybe not..........One never Knows............Until one tries................ 
    Later 
    Rick and Kathy 
    (kokolester@surry.net) 

    Rick Lester \Kathy (LANE) Lester


WIN specially autographed copy of Rocket Boys
Wednesday, 05-May-1999 18:15:31
    Message:
    WIN A COPY OF ROCKET BOYS personally autographed, as a special favor to the WHS classes of the Sixties, by the author, Homer Hickam, Jr. (all proceeds to go to the Freida Riley scholarship fund.) Click HERE for more information. 

    Don Juan (Collins) Skuja


RE: 1974 Annual
Wednesday, 05-May-1999 17:41:39
    Message:
    Found my 1970, 71, 72, 73, 75, and 76 annuals. I have a 74 around here somewhere. When I find it, I will e-mail you and you may have it for the cost of postage. 

    Louise Fletcher Crouse


Class of '54 Reunion
Wednesday, 05-May-1999 05:35:08
    Message:
    Class of '54 reunion at Holiday Inn, Bluefield on Sept. 17-19. All Welcome. Contact me for details. (304) 525-0673. 

    John Hurt


CLASS of 1974......it's been 25yrs.....where are ya???
Wednesday, 05-May-1999 05:07:31
    Message:
    Eureka!!! Surfing the Bluefield Telegraph Web Site and found this site. Just seeing the picture of the "School on the Hill" brought tears to my eyes. I've lived here in Atlanta, Ga since 1982 but I always brag about WHS and the great times I had there. I was raised in Kimball, WVa but Welch was & always will be ..My "American Graffiti". I remember the Drive-In down the road from the Bowling Alley. Those were some great weekends back in the 70's. 
    I would love to hear from the Class of 74 or anyone that remembers the 70's at WHS. I especially miss Tim Ball. We also attended Vocation School & VICA together. He was State & Local President of VICA & I was his Vice President in 73/74. In 74 we were in a car wreck and missed our last State Convention. His father was in charge of transportation for McDowell County School System. If anyone knows anything about him now please EMail me. He was a good friend & a class act. 
    Plus if anyone has or knows where I can get a 1974 yearbook ( I lost mine & that's another story in itself...lol) I'll pay far above market price for it. I want my wife and son to see what a "real" high school looks like and I want them to see me before I got my bald spot. Sorry about the rambling but this site opened up a flood gate of good memories. Hope some others will write back & we can talk & swim down memory lane.(The older I get..the cornier I get..O well...lol) 
    "WVa. Mountain Momma. Take Me Home. Country Road" 
    MTFBWYA, 
    Christopher Tyrone Bolden 'aka' Pete 

    Christopher Tyrone Bolden


MORE Welch Pictures
Saturday, 01-May-1999 19:32:53
    Message:
    Thanks to Anita Hylton Hogue and Jerry Ferguson (both WHS '58)there are now even more pictures on the web of former WHS students. The most current additions can be seen HERE.

    Don Juan Skuja


Opening Music
Thursday, 29-Apr-1999 22:56:46
    Message:
    Logged on this evening and to my pleasant surprise, you've added music. Love it! You just get better! (Visiting BCO Shirl-Joy) 

    Shirl (JOY) Shupe Johnson-Turpin

hello
Wednesday, 28-Apr-1999 23:28:52
    Message:
    ronnie dale phillips

It's Not "Our" Welch High School
Wednesday, 28-Apr-1999 23:25:32
    Message:
    With regard to the picture post card posted by Don Juan it is not very likely that it is from the early 1930s. The building depicted is not the Welch High School that all of us attended. It may be an actual photograph of the original school on the hill that burned to the ground around 1923. Or, it may be an early artist's rendering of the proposed new school (the one we all eventually attended) around the time of its construction in 1924. But, either way, it simply does not match the actual Browns Creek District High School building, as it was ultimately constructed. Our actual building was quite a bit wider across the front and, among other things, it had/has four full stories! Some of the other readers may be able to offer additional insight. 

    Warm Regards, Blake, WHS-'51, OTH-12 
    Blake Shrout


KATHRYN NOEL-EDWARDS - WHS TEACHER
Wednesday, 28-Apr-1999 13:46:30
    Message:
    152.163.232.18 writes:

    For those who haven't heard, our dear friend and former teacher, KATHRYN NOEL-EDWARDS, passed away yesterday, Tuesday, April 27th. She was taken to Charleston on Monday, after suffering a heart attack. Funeral is scheduled tomorrow, Thursday. 

    According to the Bluefield Telegraph 
    (www.bdtonline.com/online.htm ) 
    further details are still incomplete. 

    She was a remarkable lady and will be greatly missed by those of us who were fortunate enough to have spent time with her in recent years. 

    Connie (Moore) & Barney Jenkins


Hello 
Wednesday, 28-Apr-1999 16:19:55
    Message:
    Okay, Susan Simmons I found this web site. This is too cool. Please let me hear from anyone who was in the class of 1970. 

    Fredda willis


(No subject)
Wednesday, 28-Apr-1999 07:24:55
    Message:
    Mrs. Kaiser's Science Project: Now for the test-who had the best science project in Mrs. Kaiser's class-was it 7th, 8th or 9th grade? I made a paper mache dinosaur which was about 6 feet long, 4 feet wide and 3 feet tall. It was painted gray and constructed on a piece of plywood. After Mrs. Kaiser returned it to me, my father and I sailed it down the Tug River! But, Ray, don't tell your mother that! Nanette Pais Manning 

    npmjpm@aol.com


Class of 1969
Tuesday, 27-Apr-1999 15:46:33
    Message:
    Hey to all from the class of 1969. Look forward to the August reunion and seeing everyone. Great job to all for this much needed web site, it gives a warm and fuzzy feeling. All for now from Greensboro, N.C. 

    Jerry Hopson


Reunion
Tuesday, 27-Apr-1999 03:05:24
    Message:
    As I read the message board, there were lots of chuckles ... people don't change .. joe crockett and sam cooke's still the same .. pranksters ... looked for Peggy Cook, Cheryl Green, Peggy Harless, Suzie Villani (no luck) I could go on ... John Beard (a dentist!) too calm a job for him I'd think. I remember when he had his accident with the train ... he made life hard for all the candystripers ... I'm telling all John at the reunion ... I have to admit I'm with Joe on that regional reunion ...Gary's been doing for years ... always on the 4th of July weekend but in a different location ... (MY FIRST HUSBAND WAS FROM GARY) ... NOT MY SECOND - THIRD - FOURTH - FIFTH (just kidding) ... I have only 1 daughter ... she has 2 daughters ... I've centered my time around antiques and collectibles at the moment ... in 30 years I've done quite a few things ... began teaching in WVA - moved to CA - kids were killing subteachers then in '75 so I changed up (quickly) ... I was a typesetter for 10 years then the PC was introduced ... my company typeset the manual for Apple's first computer ... speaking of has everyone seen October Sky ... it's great MUST SEE ... I remember Mr Lucas' class when we had to write creative stories ... I always thought John Beard would be a writer ... heard Anthony Rossi DID become a doctor ... want everyone to know he's taking very good care of my father ... If anyone is ever in Silicon Valley California, I'll be glad to host you around ... just call (408) 286-9786 or email me at greatgreat@prodigy.net ..... (anytime) ...anita 

    Anita Hoskey Jones Knox


Maroon Wave, Don Juan & Husband, Cruise with OWLS!
Monday, 26-Apr-1999 02:19:40
    Message:
    MaroonWave, Don Juan & Husband, Cruise in November with Owls! 

    SMOOTH SAILING for WAVES & OWLS! 
    MaroonWave, Don Juan & Husband, joins Big Creek Owls on Big Cruise in November! Yahoo! Come on, WAVES, let's go with them! 
    First Block of Rooms SOLD OUT first week! Over eighty and still counting! Yet there's still plenty of room for you and your friends. Now have new block of rooms and an extension on "due Date" for first deposit! 

    Cruise Price (per person): Starts at $402 (includes $98 Port Charges!) Double Occupancy 
    Lower rates for 3rd & 4th person sharing room 
    November 8 - 12, 1999 

    Ahoy, Land-Lubbers! It’s a vacation! It’s an ALL Alumni Reunion! Incredibly LOW PRICE! You’re invited to vacation and celebrate the New Millennium with Big Creek High School Alumni and Other Friends/family sailing the Caribbean round-trip from Miami to Key West and Playa del Carmen/Cozumel, Mexico. Five magical days and four nights of exhilarating, relaxing, romantic, fun-filled happenings on Carnival’s "Fun Ship," Ecstasy. Enjoy unlimited shipboard activities, from dazzling Vegas-Style Shows, The Crystal Palace Casino, Lively Lounges, Health Spas, Sparkling Outdoor Swimming Pools, Deck Games, Library, Duty-Free Specialty Shops, Beauty Salon, Continuous Exotic Cuisine to simply catching a few rays by the pool while sipping a tropical drink or strolling along the deck under a starlit sky. At Key West, step ashore to enjoy the gingerbread mansions and its fascinating cultural history. The next day, be dazzled by the sparkling turquoise sea around Cozumel, Mexico; then onto its shores to view the sharp contrast of the island’s sophistication and the Mayan ruins of Tulum. There’s more! 

    This is our Second Alumni Cruise. Last time, class representation stretched across the years from the 40s to the 90s! The care-free mood of everyone and the dream-like setting perpetuated an atmosphere of yesteryear fantasy. What fun! 

    Say, "Bon Voyage" to cares & worries while being pampered by Carnival’s fabulous staff. 
    Enjoy a fantasy vacation aboard the "Ecstasy!" Space is limited. Make your reservation Today! 

    1. Daytime Attire: Casual, e.g., resort wear, shorts, pants, comfortable shoes, etc.. Dinner Attire: Men - Coat & Tie or equivalent. Ladies, it’s your choice - long or short dresses, pants, etc. Tip: Keep it simple; Mix ‘n’ Match outfits. 
    2. Your Carnival Cruise Fare includes your Cruise Ship Transportation, Port Charges, Room, Meals, Entertainment, Other Ship Activities, and much more including a couple of special surprises! 
    4. Air Fare is extra. Starship will make your flight reservation. Port Transfers-Included in Air Fare! 

    Reservations: Call Leona La Perriere, Starship-Williamsburg Travel 800-325-6703 
    Check, payable to Starship Travel, or Credit Card accepted. 
    Note: Prequisite for Cruising with Owls: Must be just a little "nutty" and enjoy people who have loads of fun on vacations! 
    Love & Blessings, Shirl (Joy) Johnson-Turpin, Big Creek Alumni Special Events 
    Phone & Fax: 919-663-3405 email: joysjt@chatham.net 
    Would love to hear from you anytime. But call Starship for reservations. 800-325-6703 Ext. 223 
    See You on Board! 

    For More details: Visit www.bigcreekowls.org Click on EVENTS, then click on top line "... For information about upcoming Alumni Cruise..." You're in for a treat! Webmaster, Ed Paynter, has included picture of Carnival's Fun Ship, "The Ecstasy" & cruise map. A Click on picture of ship will take you inside ship! 

    Join Don Juan & her husband and cruise with us! 

    Shirl (JOY) S. Johnson-Turpin (Big Creek '57)


Mr Bob Jack
Saturday, 24-Apr-1999 09:05:49
    Message:
    Hi Mr Jack, 
    Remember me? I'm the one that ask you each day for a dollar. But you would always say get out of my chair and my office...Sir you are the best of the best.. Robert Nowlin Class of "76" 

    Robert Nowlin Sr,


Hey, where is everybody?
Saturday, 24-Apr-1999 02:12:37
    Message:
    I really would like to hear from some folk. We 
    are planning on being at the function on Sat. 
    night at the Holiday Inn. Hope we can see a 
    lot of you. Sam and I are at 1331 Larchmont 
    St. in Bluefield, WV. 24701. ,I'm on my son's 
    computer n Youngsille, NC now. Sam and I 
    have not delved into the land of cyberspace 
    as of yet. I catch some time on the ones at 
    school when I can. 
    Ray Doug, where is a message from you? 
     

    Mary Clark Blevins Cassidy


Ancil
Saturday, 24-Apr-1999 02:18:10
    Message:
    152.163.197.59 writes:

    I hear you have been found. Can't prove it by 
    us. Guess when we took you to get that driver's license you got wings. 
    Please fly back!!!! 

    Mary Clarrk and Sam Cassidy


1963 CLASS, WHERE ARE YOU?
Friday, 23-Apr-1999 11:57:29
    Message:
    We need help from everyone who knows anyone from the 1963 class to inform them to get in touch with the SENSATIONAL SIXTIES REUNION committee. Our summer time party of the decade is getting near and we do not want anyone to miss it! 

Cruisin' with the Owls
Wednesday, 21-Apr-1999 22:00:24
    Message:
    Folks, my husband and I are joining the Owls on this cruise. I'm billing it to research thinking perhaps WHS might want to consider doing something similar in the future. If any of you are interested in crashing this party with me, feel free to contact 
    Shirl (she's got a message or two on here somewhere). The travel agent told me today there's still plenty room for more, so come on board! 

    Don Juan Skuja


Roller Skating by Martha & Rhea
Tuesday, 20-Apr-1999 22:37:10
    Message:
    Ah! Nostalgia! How well I remember ... gliding around and around the floor, swinging and swaying to our favorite rock 'n' roll tunes. Our hearts skipped a beat each time one of our good-looking guys, clad in their pink shirts and DAs, whizzed by. Often slowing down just long enough to grasp our hand and pull us close for yet another spin. Those were the days. Thanks for the memories! ................. (One of your regular Big Creek Owlette visitors) 

    Shirl (joy) S. Johnson-Turpin


HELL----OOOO 
Tuesday, 20-Apr-1999 21:14:30
    Message:
    HEY MOUNTAINVIEW FRIENDS AND ENEMIES.... eMAIL ME NOW 

    TONY COLOSI


Street Scene at National Archives in DC
Tuesday, 20-Apr-1999 20:47:14
    Message:
    I live near Washington DC and last weekend went to visit The National Archives. They had an exhibit titled "PICTURING THE CENTURY, One 
    Hundred Years of Photography from the National Archives" which was presented "as an exhibition at the National Archives and Records Administration, Washington DC, March 12, 1999-July 4, 2001" Much to my amazement a print of the Welch street scene (The picture is located on this site, go to first page click on PICTURES then WELCH and WELCH KIDS) was a part of the exhibit. The actual date of the photograph was August 24, 1946. In this exhibit there were approximately 300 photos. Imagine this! The archives stated that they had 8 Million photographs, the street scene from Welch was one of the few exhibited. The following is text from the exhibit brochure: "Old photographs are time machines. They allow us to look back into history, freeze a moment in time, and imagine ourselves as part of the past...." WE WERE A PART OF THIS PAST! 

    Linda Hurt (Osvalds), class of 65 

    Linda Hurt Osvalds


Dreama Hamilton
Tuesday, 20-Apr-1999 10:01:33
    Message:
    Dreama, 
    I need your e-mail address. I sent you a letter and registration form by Kathy Roberts to the hospital but since you are on the internet why don't you go in under the 60's class reunion and type in the registration form for me and I won't have to. I also need Corny's address I don't think I have her new one. 
    Thanks Mary e-mail address rmfaulds@hotmail.com

School Plays at Welch Elementary
Tuesday, 20-Apr-1999 09:50:28
    Message:
    Does anybody remember those school musicals/plays we used to do every spring at Welch Elementary? The best had to be "Scarecrow Dick." Can anybody remember who played the title role? 

    Martha Manning


Must Be A Coaldigger Record! You Gotta Love This!
Monday, 19-Apr-1999 20:00:26
    Message:
    Just happened to be "surfin" the GHS website and came across this amazing entry from Mamie O. Cooper. This is one of those priceless ones worth sharing. In Mamie's own words: 

    "I graduated from GHS (Gary Adkin District High School) in 1925. I taught school for 45 years and substituted for 8 additional years. I was the Principal at Thorpe Elementary during World War II and taught the other years at Jenkinjones and Anawalt. As far as I know, I am the oldest living alumnus of GHS. I am now 92 years old and still kicking, but not quite as high! Would love to hear from former students." 

    Mamie's Email address is: KMVANCE@inetone.net 

    Don't know about you folks, but I can't imagine "kicking" anything at age 92, much less being computer literate........or, for that matter, being literate at all! GO MAMIE!!!!! 

    Bob Greene


Re., Address of Walter Morris - Class of 1942
Monday, 19-Apr-1999 18:09:59
    Message:
    Walter Morris' (nickname "Yachtie") sisters earlier reported that he had died many years ago. He had been living in New Orleans, La at the time of death. His brother John (Class of 1945) lives or lived in or around Oak Hill, WVa and he has a sister, Elizabeth Booker, also Welch High School grad who lives in Charlettesville, Va. I have no information about his brother Fred (Class of about 1940 or 1941). 

    Richard (Dick) St. Clair - Class 1944


Memory Lane
Saturday, 17-Apr-1999 10:51:00

Need Info
Saturday, 17-Apr-1999 10:47:12
    Message:
    If anyone has info where I can reach Mary Helen Bank Harris (Class of '57), please forward to me. I am interested in contacting her younger sister, Linda, who moved to Cleveland OH when we were 14. 

    Carolyn RHUDY Bullion


Roller Skating and Rocket Boys
Friday, 16-Apr-1999 17:00:58
    Message:
    Does anybody else remember roller skating in Welch or at the Thomas Joyland in Big Four? 

    I remember going roller skating, falling down and getting back up to find that my hands, knees, clothes, etc. were completely BLACK with coal dust. I think I wore white shorts to the skating rink -once-. Then, do you remember later if you blew your nose, the Kleenex was black too?! (Some things are better left unsaid.) And, remember how dirty your socks used to get walking around the house in "sock feet"? 

    For some reason two songs come to mind when I think of roller skating in Welch: (1) "Beauty's Only Skin Deep" or as Bobby Lewis used to say: "Beauty's Gonna Skin Me," and (2) "Ain't Too Proud To Beg." Those tunes must have had a good roller skate beat. 

    Reading Rocket Boys last weekend brought back those 30+ year old images of roller skating in the coal dust. Those were good times. I really enjoyed the book. It's even better than the movie. 

    Martha Johnston Manning - 1973


Hi to class of 57 The Best Ever!
Friday, 16-Apr-1999 01:14:24
    Message:
    All 57 members E-Mail me. Namely Ron Thompson 
    Pat Friel, Mike Callaway, M&B Barker,Nilda 

    Ann Tucker-Rosch


What a find!!
Thursday, 15-Apr-1999 18:25:41
    Message:
    Came upon this web page by happenstance and am absolutely thrilled. I've spent the last hour or so reading all the messages and getting teary-eyed at many. Would love to hear from old friends (gosh I guess the operative word could be "old," couldn't it?) -- Not a chance! I'm sure none of us have changed a bit - at least in spirit. 

    Bridget McCoy (class of '66)


Greetings
Thursday, 15-Apr-1999 06:07:32
    Message:
    Hello, Waves: 
    I am the webmaster for the Big Creek Owls website and found you by following a link left on our message board by Donnie. Great job: I especially enjoyed reading the history behind "the Barrel" which I had heard about for years, but never knew how it came to be. Thanks for the memories. Roll Waves! ....ed 

    Ed Paynter

want to say lm very sorry
Wednesday, 14-Apr-1999 12:41:05
    Message:
    Traying to locate Alice Nameth Class of 60, want to apologize to her for something l did back in 59, it been bothering me all the years 

    George Liontakis


Photographer's visit to home of Rocket Boys
Tuesday, 13-Apr-1999 23:10:20
    Message:
    Mark Crabtree, a West Virginia photographer has some nice photos of McDowell County on his website at http://www.labs.net/crabtree/coalwoodp1.htm 
    which features a photo story on Coalwood WV, the home of the Rocket Boys. Thank you, Homer Hickam for telling us about this site. 

    Donnie Skuja


LARRY CHATFIELD
Tuesday, 13-Apr-1999 21:35:31
    Message:
    DOES ANYONE HAVE A PHONE NUMBER OR AN ADDRESS FOR LARRY CHATFIELD? HE OWES ME MONEY FROM A "H-O-R-S-E" BASKETBALL GAME IN '63!?! 

    JOHN E. STAFFORD


Looking for class of '67
Tuesday, 13-Apr-1999 15:13:26
    Message:
    Anyone know the whereabouts of these classmates let me know: Mary Bailey, Larry Barber, Linda Barnett, Cynthia Barnes, Alex Basham, Carmen Belcher, Geneva Belcher, Jeanette Belcher, Joyce Belcher, Diane Bell, Jeanette Bigelow, Darrell Bishop, Jim Blair, Phyllis Brewster, Roger Campbell, Janie Carnell, Lilly Carter, Jay Chatman, Emily Chatfield, Penny Christian, Kathy Cook, Paul Cooper, Brenda Cox, Mary Critikos, Barbara Dalton, Virginia Diggs, Johnny Earles, Jeff Earnest, Shirley Fago, Debbie Farris, Sue Felts, Doris Glasco, Helen Green, Angeline Hairston, Steve Hanson, Steve Hipsley, Donna Horn,Frankie Hoskey, Aaron Hull, Delores Ingram, Mildred Jackson, David Jenkins, Martha Johnson, Debbie Jones,Tommy Lambert, Susan Laneave, Demetrice Lindsey, Charles Livingston, Sandra Lucion, Marie McBee, John McClure, Nancy McGan, Eslanda McNeal, Connie Mallory, Joe Mays, Betty Mitchem, Gerrie Muncy, James Mustard, Kay Nester, Greg Noe, Uygonda Noe, P.T. Pendleton, Cindy Reece, Dovie Rickman, Ann Robinson, Gilda Rutherford, Beverly Saunders, Dorothy Sexton, Brenda Sizemore, Michael Skeens, Gloria Smith, Sharon SMith, Phyllis Stevenson, Wanda Surface. Donna Taylor, Junior Thomas, Theresa Thompson, Donetta Tramel, Ernie Vargo , Joey Verdiglione, Charlotte Walker, Jackie Walker, Patty White, Don Williams, Claudia Wilson Karen Woodrum, Loretta Woods, Jacqueline Wray. Please send to me at HC71 Box 416 Princeton WV 24740 or e-mail rmfaulds@hotmail.com Thanks so much 

    Mary Faulds


Best Band In Welch
Tuesday, 13-Apr-1999 12:04:52
    Message:
    I was in the class of 74 and played drums in the band. One day when we were "down town", a lady made the statement that we were the best band in Welch, we were the only band in town but we were pretty good also. 

    Allen Welch


Stevie Lou Robinson Terrel
Tuesday, 13-Apr-1999 09:55:25
    Message:
    Just an update on Stevie Lou...she is still very weak and has lost strength in her left side. She has appreciated all the concern and prayers from her WHS friends. Please keep her in your thoughts and send her a card to let her know she is remembered, especially now. 

    118 Woodlawn Drive 
    Laurens, SC 29360 

    Ramona Rutledge-Shook


Looking for David Marion ('64) Problem w/email
Tuesday, 13-Apr-1999 09:54:20
    Message:
    Tried to email David Marion, but mail was returned. Please somebody inform David (if he doesn't see this) or give us the correct address ASAP! Thanks 

    60's Reunion Committee

Click here to reply


New Message Board Format
Monday, 12-Apr-1999 23:45:36
    Message:
    Love your new format! It's so much easier to scan the names and topics! Then choose the first message of choice to begin reading! Also it's esthetically pleasing! More messages get seen and read! The ole format, used by so many webpages, is busy and time-consuming for those who want to visit but not spend the night! Great Work! Excellent idea! 

    Joy - An outsider looking in!


Hey 1978 Class!!!
Monday, 12-Apr-1999 16:25:40
    Message:
    Who all is going to the 2000 reunion? Any 1978 graduates. 

    denise


Great Web Site
Sunday, 11-Apr-1999 22:01:02
    Message:
    Great Web Site - enjoyed it very much. Im an alumni of Big Creek '54 and great to see what the McDowell county schools are doing. Good Luck! 

    Gene Honaker


(No subject)
Sunday, 11-Apr-1999 11:37:46
    Message:
    JOHN BEARD DID IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Spectacular Website! 
Saturday, 10-Apr-1999 19:56:19
    Message:
    Don Juan, Nancy & Barbara and all your contributors: ( Bet Rhea had some input too!) Your website reeks with enthusiasm and creativity! Love the Surfin' Maroon Wave graphic on front page! Year Book pics ... great idea! I'm going to invite The Big Creek Owls to take a look! Excellent job! Stop by our website. www.bigcreekowls.org ---- Looking foward to seeing you on the Big Alumni & Other Friends Cruise Reunion in November. Have a sparkling day! Blessings. Shirl (joy) 

    Shirl (joy) S. Johnson-Turpin


Maroon Waves Rendezvous at Sea with Big Creek Owls!
Saturday, 10-Apr-1999 06:25:05
    Message:
    It's CRUISING TIME 
    For 
    ALL Big Creek High School Alumni 
    and Other Friends (including Maroon WAVES!) 
    Cruise Price (per person): Start at $402 (includes $98 Port Charges!) Double Occupancy 
    Lower rates for 3rd & 4th person sharing room $25 deposit per person due April 28th 
    November 8 - 12, 1999 

    Ahoy, Land-Lubbers! It’s a vacation! It’s an ALL Alumni Reunion! Incredibly LOW PRICE! You’re invited to vacation and celebrate the New Millennium with Big Creek High School Alumni and Other Friends/family sailing the Caribbean round-trip from Miami to Key West and Playa del Carmen/Cozumel, Mexico. Five magical days and four nights of exhilarating, relaxing, romantic, fun-filled happenings on Carnival’s "Fun Ship," Ecstasy. Enjoy unlimited shipboard activities, from dazzling Vegas-Style Shows, The Crystal Palace Casino, Lively Lounges, Health Spas, Sparkling Outdoor Swimming Pools, Deck Games, Library, Duty-Free Specialty Shops, Beauty Salon, Continuous Exotic Cuisine … to simply catching a few rays by the pool while sipping a tropical drink … or strolling along the deck under a starlit sky. At Key West, step ashore to enjoy the gingerbread mansions and its fascinating cultural history. The next day, be dazzled by the sparkling turquoise sea around Cozumel, Mexico; then onto its shores to view the sharp contrast of the island’s sophistication and the Mayan ruins of Tulum. There’s more! 

    This is our Second Alumni Cruise. Last time, class representation stretched across the years from the 40s to the 90s! The care-free mood of everyone and the dream-like setting perpetuated an atmosphere of yesteryear fantasy. What fun! 

    Say, "Bon Voyage" to cares & worries while being pampered by Carnival’s fabulous staff. 
    Enjoy a fantasy vacation aboard the "Ecstasy!" Space is limited. Make your reservation Today! 

    1. Daytime Attire: Casual, e.g., resort wear, shorts, pants, comfortable shoes, etc.. Dinner Attire: Men - Coat & Tie or equivalent. Ladies, it’s your choice - long or short dresses, pants, etc. Tip: Keep it simple; Mix ‘n’ Match outfits. 
    2. We do not have everyone’s address. So copy and share this information with former classmates and other friends. Singles, let Leona know if you want a roommate. She may be able to help. 
    3. Your Carnival Cruise Fare includes your Cruise Ship Transportation, Port Charges, Room, Meals, Entertainment, Other Ship Activities, and much more …including a couple of special surprises! 
    4. Air Fare is extra. Starship will make your flight reservation. Port Transfers-Included in Air Fare! 

    Reservations: Call Leona La Perriere Õ Starship-Williamsburg Travel Õ 800-325-6703 Ext. 223 
    Check, payable to Starship Travel, or Credit Card accepted. 

    Love & Blessings, Shirl (Joy) Johnson-Turpin, Big Creek Alumni Special Events 
    Phone & Fax: 919-663-3405 email: joysjt@chatham.net 
    Would love to hear from you anytime. But call Starship for reservations. 800-325-6703 Ext. 223 
    See You on Board! 

    Shirl (JOY) S. Johnson-Turpin


WHS Class of 52 Reunion Picture on the Web!
Friday, 09-Apr-1999 23:00:41
    Message:
    The June 1997 reunion picture of the WHS Class of 1952 can be viewed at https://members.tripod.com/dskuja/52reunion.htm 

    Don Juan Skuja


Fabulous Fifties Reunion
Friday, 09-Apr-1999 10:22:53
    Message:
    Anyone who needs to update their address for the Fabulous Fifties Reunion roster (classes 55-60) please contact me at: 

    6 Charles Circle S.W. 
    Vienna, VA 22180 
    (703) 281-4934 
    or e-mail me at pfrieljohnson@juno.com 

    Pat Friel Johnson


Ancil Sparks found
Thursday, 08-Apr-1999 12:48:29
    Message:
    Yesterday, April 7, we received a telephone call from Ancil. What a pleasant and wonderful surprise. Dickie Widener had told us he heard he was with the FBI in Quantico, VA. How do you locate someone in the FBI? Get help. We wrote Bill Kitchen, WHS'41, retired FBI, and ask for suggestions as to how to find Ancil. The Cincinnati office called Ancil and ask if they could let us have his address. He wanted to know who wrote the letter. When he found out who wrote the letter that did it. He apparently could not wait. He called us as well. It was great. Those of you who want his address we will be glad to pass it on. Charles and Elizabeth Lovett 

    clove@ezwv.net


(No subject)
Thursday, 08-Apr-1999 04:05:19
    Message:
    where is cookie byrd

Cruise Reunion with Big Creek Owls in November 
Wednesday, 07-Apr-1999 02:43:07
    Message:
    Visitor's Name: Shirl (JOY) S. Johnson-Turpin 
    Date April 6, 1999 
    Year(s)of attendance at WHS Visitor from Big Creek High School - Class of 57 
    Comments: You're Invited! Join us on our second All Big Creek Alumni and OTHER Friends Cruise Reunion when we cruise western Caribbean November 8 - 12. Ports of Call: Miami/Key West and Playa del Carmen/Cozumel, Mexico. Schedule your vacation so that we can make history ... I can see the headlines now " ... Welch Maroon Waves and Big Creek Owls rendezvous at sea!" Several of your classmates expressed an interest in cruising with us. We are excited about the idea! YOU are invited! The cost is the lowest, but the service and pampering by Carnival's Ecstasy staff is the highest and finest. Make memories that will last a lifetime! Not only will this be one of your best vacations, but it will be one of the most fun! We will just "kick back", relax, and have a Ball! For more details ...visit our Big Creek H.S. Website --- www.bigcreekowls.org --- or email, fax or call me. FAX & Phone: 919-663-3405. Let's cruise!!! Blessings. Shirl (joy) 

    Shirl (Joy) S.Johnson-Turpin



(No subject)
Sunday, 11-Apr-1999 11:36:48
Message:
152.163.213.72 writes:

JOHN BEARD DID IT



Pictures from 1950s Veteran's Day Parade
Tuesday, 06-Apr-1999 23:40:58
    Message:
    Judy Hulme Beuchert sent us some simply wonderful pictures her father took at the Veteran's Day Parade in 1950. These are very crisp shots and even though they may take a while to load on your PC, I think you will enjoy them. They can be seen at http://whs.freeservers.com/VetParade.htm 
    Judy, thank you so much -- and special thanks to Bill Tolley who scanned them for us. 

    Don Juan (Collins) Skuja


Hello Maroon Waves
Tuesday, 06-Apr-1999 23:41:55
    Message:
    32.100.193.139 writes:

    Hello Maroon Wave graduates of 1973. This is a great Web Site. Look to hear from more classmates from 1973. I look forward to the year 2000 reunion. Hope to see a lot of my classmates there!! I live in Lawrenceville, GA 30 miles north of Atlanta. If you come this way, say hello. I am operating my own computer training and consulting company and I really enjoy it. I also enjoy coming back home often. Take care and may God bless all the Waves from on the Hill!!! 

    Pam Evans


Where's the Class of '77??
Tuesday, 06-Apr-1999 13:55:16
    Message:
    Would love to hear from old classmates from the Class of '77? 

    Myrna A. Young


WHERE'S THE CLASS OF 1954?
Tuesday, 06-Apr-1999 11:34:52
    Message:
    Hey 1954 Alumni, 

    It's only been 45 years, surely you haven't forgotten all those "GREAT TIMES ON THE HILL". I've seen other Alumni notes which invited communication but failed to include the address. If you got some time drop me a note, my Email address is dsizem@yahoo.com. 

    DEAN 

    DEAN SIZEMORE


Lois Hurt (class of 1962)
Monday, 05-Apr-1999 16:05:41
    Message:
    Lois Hurt Cloke: DO NOT READ 
    Everyone else, please participate. This is Lois' daughter. I am putting together a memory book for her. Please send all good memories and/or pictures to Martha Elkins 

    martha@ezwv.com



 
The Day the Music Died
Friday, 02-Apr-1999 21:22:28
    Message:
    205.156.240.52 writes:

    I've removed ALL the music from our web sites. This is a copy of the message I received today from the free web service we have been using most extensively: "Dear Client: Due to circumstances beyond our control, we will no longer be offering Real Audio use to our free web hosting clients. In addition, we cannot allow ANY type of audio files on all the free web hosting servers. 

    **Please promptly remove ANY audio files from your account** 

    It is very important you take immediate action on this as we will be forced to close any 
    accounts found in non-compliance. 

    We apologize for any inconvenience to all those clients that this adversely affects, but due to 
    copyright issues this has become a necessary step that we have been forced to take." 

    If any of you have access to web hosting through your internet service provider and you would like to share that "paid for" space with us, please let me know. That's the only way I know, at this point in time, we can have music with our web pages. 

    So sorry. I know lots of you really enjoyed the "music." (ok, some of you will be pleased it's gone - - - but quit looking so smug!) 

    Don Juan (Collins) Skuja


Brady Eanes E-mail being returned
Friday, 02-Apr-1999 01:22:54
    Message:
    152.163.197.194 writes:

    Brady I dont know what has happened but my E-mail 
    to you has been cuning back 
    Get in touch with me 
    Jerald 

    Jerald Johnston


Class of '62!
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 07:01:37
    Message:
    153.34.79.249 writes:

    Just checking in! This is a wonderful idea and a great web site. Kudos to the visionaries and the designers! Donnie, I see your brothers at family gatherings often. I see your area code is 410 here in Maryland. I am in White Plains. Great to reach out and touch base with everyone. Enjoy reading all the messages. 

    Pat Lee (Patricia Lee Joyce)


1969 CLASSMATES
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 00:54:54
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign on via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER!



 
1967 CLASSMATES
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 00:48:26
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign on via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER! 


1966 CLASSMATES
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 00:45:05
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign on via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER

1965 CLASSMATES
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 00:42:33
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign on via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER!

1964 CLASSMATES
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 00:40:13
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign on via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER! 


1963 CLASSMATES
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 00:34:45
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign on via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER!


1962 CLASSMATES
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 00:26:25
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign in via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER! 


1961 CLASSMATES
Thursday, 01-Apr-1999 00:19:21
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign in via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER!


1960 CLASSMATES
Wednesday, 31-Mar-1999 23:58:19
    Message:
    206.101.103.204 writes:

    Sign in via email or snail mail to attend the party of the decade. THE '60'S REUNION THIS SUMMER!


1957 Senior Class on the Web
Wednesday, 31-Mar-1999 22:25:47
    Message:
    205.156.240.52 writes:

    Thanks to Barbara Dawson Cassell, the 1957 Senior Class pictures are now scanned and on the web for all to see. Click here to view the WHS 57 Senior Class online. 

    Don Juan (Collins) Skuja


1960-1969 WHS Reunion Web Site
Wednesday, 31-Mar-1999 22:00:32
    Message:
    205.156.240.52 writes:

    WHS 60s students, plans for a reunion THIS SUMMER for 1960-1969 WHS students is underway. Click here to check out the NEW 1960-1969 reunion page and to obtain more information about this event. 

    Don Juan (Collins) Skuja


creative juices
Wednesday, 31-Mar-1999 15:30:38
    Message:
    152.163.204.54 writes:

    Most of you have heard about my basement, the Tic Toc II. Well, I am designing menus. I need help in coming up with names. Something like: Maroon Wave Burger with burgandy juice. 
    I have menus from The Sterling Drive,(King George gave them to me), but want the menus because I'm having a neon light made that says,Tic Toc II. 
    I'm sure I can count on the 60's classes. They have shown a lot of creativity. 
    Get the creative juices flowing and help me out. 
    Thanks, 
    Barbara Dawson Cassell '57 

    Barbara Dawson Cassell '57


(No subject)
Wednesday, 31-Mar-1999 14:55:25
    Message:
    168.216.134.102 writes:

    60's Class Reunion July 3o and 31 Holiday Inn Bluefield. Need names and addresses if interested--class of '67. Let me know--Mary Larkin Faulds e-mail rmfaulds@hotmail.com. 
    Thanks 
    Mary Faulds '67


Rocket Boys/October Sky #1
Wednesday, 31-Mar-1999 07:17:05
    Message:
    205.156.240.50 writes:

    Just received this message from Homer: 
    "My editor just called. October Sky (aka Rocket Boys) is #1 on the NY 
    Times Best-Seller's List. 

    Who would have ever believed it? 

    Prodigious. 

    H3" 

    Congratulations! to Homer. We're so proud of you. 

    Don Juan Skuja


Contact "Sonny" Richardson
Tuesday, 30-Mar-1999 09:21:29
    Message:
    152.163.207.68 writes:

    To Charlotte Richardson Day, your father, Randolph Burns Richardson, is my nephew and I have gone to visit him in Gary. His mother, was my sister, Edith. Please give him my best regards and tell him I would love to hear from him. I have written to his brother, Donald Richardson, but have had no response. Would love to know how everyone is doing. 

    I live in Cross Lanes and my telephone number is listed in the Charleston directory. 

    Take care and God Bless! 

    Gladys J. Epperly De Felice


e-mail address needed for Larry Matney
Monday, 29-Mar-1999 19:55:22
    Message:
    12.70.19.114 writes:

    This message is for Larry Matney. Please let me 
    know your e-mail address. 

    Judith (Hulme) Beuchert


Great Job on The Web Page!! 
Monday, 29-Mar-1999 18:44:10
    Message:
    153.34.80.118 writes:

    Greetings from White Plains, Maryland, to class of '63! The web site is wonderful and truly a trip down memory lane. It's great. Donnie, (Don Juan) would love to touch base with you and any one from the class of 62 or 63. 

    Patricia Lee (Pat Lee) Joyce


'69 Welch High School Class Reunion
Sunday, 28-Mar-1999 21:05:36
    Message:
    208.245.128.113 writes:

    Dear Friends, 

    We have made class reunion plans for the class of 1969 to be held the weekend of Aug. 13 and 14. 
    When we started we invited all classes from the 60's to attend a meeting or let us know if anyone else was interested. We did not hear from anyone and proceeded with our plans for '69. After we did this we invited anyone else to come to the '69 reunion. This invitation still stands, but the reunion will center around the class of '69. 
    The plans we have made cannot accommodate all the classes of the '60's. 

    Thank you, 
    Mary Spano Clark 
    Connie Ellis Williams 
     

    Mary Spano Clark


Looking for an old friend
Saturday, 27-Mar-1999 20:39:03
    Message:
    208.29.73.41 writes:

    Trying to find an old friend, Margaret Shaffer. 
    Does anyone have information on her. We were best friends. Thanks 

    Pam JenkinsWyatt


Earl Patrick Jr. class of 59 
Friday, 26-Mar-1999 21:04:46
    Message:
    209.240.197.32 writes:

    Would like to hear from some of my old friends. 

    Earl Patrick Jr.


More on Homer and Rocket Boys
Thursday, 25-Mar-1999 09:06:09
    Message:
    199.173.224.2 writes:

    Eveyone needs to go to the Big Creek Owls home page and check out Homer Hickam's comments on how he wrote "Rocket Boys". The story behind the story is as intriguing and touching as the story itself. Simply use the link on the WHS home page under "other links". After the BCHS homepage has fully loaded (it takes a little time, because it's pretty sophisticated), click on the link to Rocket Boys. There are several choices on that page, but the first one is the best: "How I came to write 'Rocket Boys'". 

    By the way, for the class of '69 and other close years, you may remember Marvin Davidson who moved to Coalwood after Junior High. Their class lists has his bio info and e-mail. You'll probably find a lot of other old friends and acquaintences on there, too. 

    Roy Morgan


Blufield Daily Telegraph website
Wednesday, 24-Mar-1999 09:28:24
    Message:
    208.6.94.38 writes:

    If anyone wants to keep up w/news as close to Welch as possible, the BDT website is www.bdtonline.com. Charles Gazette is http://wvgazette.com 

    Diane Turner Clemins


Cipherin' Fun (That's a Math Problem in Welch)
Tuesday, 23-Mar-1999 12:08:35
    Message:
    205.188.199.34 writes:

    This should only take about 30 seconds (maybe longer if you're from Gary). Picture yourself in Welch and "cipher" this out as you read. Don't read the bottom until you've ciphered it out by following these 6 simple steps. I promise, you'll be amazed! 

    STEP 1: PICK THE NUMBER OF DAYS A WEEK THAT YOU'D LIKE TO GO OUT TO DINNER (Sterling Drive-In, WVA Drive-In, Tic-Toc Grill, Franklin's Dairy, Carmen Quatrocci's Hot Dogs, Roderfield Road-Kill, etc.). 

    STEP 2: MULTIPLY THIS NUMBER BY 2. 

    STEP 3: ADD 5. 

    STEP 4: MULTIPLY THIS TOTAL BY 50. 

    STEP 5: IF YOU HAVE ALREADY HAD YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS YEAR (1999), ADD 1749. IF YOU HAVEN'T HAD YOUR BIRTHDAY YET THIS YEAR, ADD 1748. 

    LAST STEP: SUBTRACT THE FOUR DIGIT YEAR THAT YOU WERE BORN. 

    RESULTS: YOU SHOULD NOW HAVE A THREE DIGIT NUMBER (Keep Goin'). 

    THE FIRST DIGIT OF THIS THREE DIGIT NUMBER WAS YOUR ORIGINAL NUMBER (i.e. how many times each week you want to go out to eat). 

    THE SECOND TWO DIGITS ARE YOUR AGE!!! 

    Hopefully, if you "ciphered" it right, you'll be as impressed as I was! Bon Appetit! 

    Bob Greene


Trying to locate
Tuesday, 23-Mar-1999 07:19:08
    Message:
    208.168.156.103 writes:

    Does anyone have the address for: 

    Ancil Sparks Class of '62? (football and the highest scoring center in WV one year "61 I think) 

    Stevie Lou Robinson Class of mid '60s (she is the sister of Scotty Robinson) (musician) 

    Elizabeth and Charles Lovett


(No subject)
Monday, 22-Mar-1999 20:39:43
    Message:
    207.173.233.59 writes:

    I just loved reading all the messages. Glad this was done. Hoping to hear from members of the class of 1973 or anyone else. E-mail 
    hdwoods@citlink.net 

    Liz Robinson(Adkins)


"IN THE ARMS OF AN ANGEL"
Monday, 22-Mar-1999 18:32:29
    Message:
    198.64.222.141 writes:

    Since we're all getting a little older each year and since it is obvious that we have lost a few of our beloved classmates and teachers; and will continue to do so - is it possible to open a site within our alumni website honoring those who have passed on to their just rewards without it being too much of a burden on our website developers? It could be called "In the Arms of An Angel" or "Gone But Not Forgotten" - or anything you might think appropriate. 

    On an up beat note - does anyone know where Stevie Lou and Scott Robinson are these days? Scott was here in Houston but we lost touch a few years ago so if anyone can give a hint - there are several who have asked me about Stevie and Scott and would really like to get in touch with them. 
     

    Rhea Romans Worsham


October Sky
Monday, 22-Mar-1999 11:58:35
    Message:
    209.3.241.65 writes:

    I graduated in 1965. Went to see October Sky and it was great. I also read the book. It is great that Homer Hickens grew up in McDowell County. Does anyone know were Dreama and Betty Premo are now? 

    Linda Hurt Osvalds


Where's all the 63 team now?
Sunday, 21-Mar-1999 21:50:12
    Message:
    207.173.228.249 writes:

    Steve Bary and I were talking about a reunion of the 1963 Welch football team and the feasibility of getting back together for one more hurrah. If you are interested please respond. I know it's dejavu, but the football reunion held in my Dad's 
    honor was quite a spectacle of fond rembrances and a night of comradery. Don Dye even came from Texas. 
    Tom Callaway 

    Tom Callaway


Too Hot to Handle?
Sunday, 21-Mar-1999 19:36:55
    Message:
    198.64.222.198 writes:

    When logging on I kept getting a CONTENT ADVISOR on my computer screen. At first I thought WHS had put a new twist on the website - but then when I logged onto another site and the same advisor came on and I knew that it is just one of those computer glitches. Now my family really thinks that WHS was WILD! Hey, maybe they finally think that Mom is "kool" or is it the "bomb" now days??? 

    I can hardly wait for the day they look at me as though I know what I am talking about and maybe even agree with me once in a while. Right now they are still in the "correcting" Mom stage. Tell me, are all children the same when it comes to parents? Maybe that is why grandchildren are so precious and wonderful - they listen to us (for a while at least) and make us feel like we are in tune - so what if they're only toddlers. Oh, the joys of parenthood!!. 

    Rhea Romans Worsham


Class of 1953
Sunday, 21-Mar-1999 07:47:25
    Message:
    152.163.204.186 writes:

    I have been looking at the messages for months now and thought I wrote something, but could not find it. I did hear from Bob Martin and that was great but the rest of the class seems to have dissapeared. I remember slipping into the Starland theater, WV Drive In, Sterling, skating at Iaeger and Kimball roller rinks, going to baseball games at Blakely Field, playing football and baseball on the slate dump at Superior,the JC Penny and Murphy stores, Pocahontas and Temple theaters, the Franklin Dairy Store,the Roderfield Drive In Restaurant, owned by Bill and run by RJ and his mom, driving to Salem with RJ and his dad, playing the pinball machine and almost blowing my paycheck from the Amoco across the street, hitchhiking from Iaeger to Havaco, walking from Iaeger to Havaco, tasting some shine at Roderfield, drinking more shine at Roderfield,volunteering for the draft in 1954 with Jimmie Franklin and having them take him in October and me in November, coming back and working for the Amoco from 57 to 59 and leaving to go to Washington DC. Married a Gary girl in 1960 and been in this area almost ever since. Saw October Sky and it was great. Anyone from 1953 or who knows me, it will be great to hear from you. 

    Samuel Franklin Reeves


56 Seniors Pix & Update to 70s Reunion Page 
Saturday, 20-Mar-1999 23:31:05
    Message:
    205.156.240.60 writes:

    The WHS 1956 Senior Class pictures can now be viewed on the web at http://whs.freeservers.com/56seniors.htm 
    Also, an updated version of the 70s Reunion page (including added music) can be seen at http://www.geocities.com/whsmaroonwave/reunion.htm 

    Don Juan Skuja


Sammy Greathead - where are you?
Saturday, 20-Mar-1999 23:27:41
    Message:
    192.94.94.33 writes:

    Sammy, 

    If you tell me where you live I will visit you by August. I would love to see you and yours - and hey! it's easy - my parents retired to MB about what? can it 10 years ago? Ah, well. Time flies where you're having fun, eh? I won't spam you with a lot of nonsense until I hear you're interested. Regards, 

    Gale 

    PS - in case you never figured it out, our relationship meant a lot to me then, and seems to have withstood 30 years of silence, as far as I can tell from this side. 

    Richard Gale


And another trivia question
Saturday, 20-Mar-1999 08:25:49
    Message:
    208.236.152.77 writes:

    I can't seem to help myself this morning, but the WHS faculty is on my mind. 

    Who earned a spot in the pantheon of sponsors of quotable phrases with "concerning about that right there you see"? 

    What did Mrs. Richardson do with her mint lifesavers (and I am talking about before she ate them)? 

    What teacher would shorten class for the price of a meatball sandwich? 

    Whose classroom was adorned with a Van De Graff generator that eventually shocked at least half of the student who had class in that room (Bobby Lewis and I once got a two-fer on that devilish device, knocking both of us into the hall)? 

    What teacher sponsored "Physics Day," the first and perhaps last official event at WHS that had as its major event an entire class skipping school for the day? 

    Which teacher managed each day to drive a Caddillac the size of a small European country up to the parking lot -- and somehow didn't teach driver's ed? 

    Which teacher went into a classroom of another teacher who was absent one hot day, opened the windows and, upon leaving the class room and just prior to shutting the door, announced "If you would like to have the door open too, come and get me." 

    And for those on who were on the football team in the late '60's, a non teacher question: Who drove the bus back to town after practice (when we were finished in time to catch it) like he was ready to meet his maker? 

    Jim Crockett


Today's trivia quiz
Saturday, 20-Mar-1999 07:42:33
    Message:
    208.236.152.77 writes:

    I didn't read all the messages so the correct answer may have already been yelled out from the audience. But here it is anyway. 

    Why was Stafford Grogan called "Slick" 

    Jim Crockett


Alma Mater and Pep Song: the latest
Friday, 19-Mar-1999 01:40:21
    Message:
    152.163.204.197 writes:

    Got a note from my mother today, reminding me that I did a major paper on the history of Welch High School in my senior year. Terry Lucas kept the original. After we lost him not long ago, one of his aunts, a Mrs. Bell, sent the paper back to my mother. Here's what the paper reports, based on issues of the MAROON WAVE. 
    "In 1955 two Welch High students, Maria Sagris and Nelle Pollock, composed and presented the Welch High School Alma Mater: 
    'We hail Maroon and White 
    The banner of Welch High. 
    We're striving to excel 
    And keep our standards high. 
    As ever on through life we go 
    Our hearts with gladness fill 
    When looking back through time we see 
    Our dear school on the hill.' 
    (This is a direct quote from the MAROON WAVE,vol. 18, April, 1955. 
    Here are a few more tidbits of trivia about that Class of 1955. 
    "It was also during this school year of 1954-55, that the Key Club was organized with Sam V. Romeo as the sponsor and Paul Griegal as the first president. The Homecoming Queen was Rhonda Tolliver, and the May King and Queen were Bill Tolley and Sandra Waltz. Peggy Kern and Leon Kemp were co-valedictorians. Maria Sagris was editor of the annual, Outstanding Senior, and Salutatorian. The Most Valuable Speaker was Joe Monti." 
    Ready for another blast from the past? 
    "The year of 1939-40 opened with the first use of the gymnasium and its six new classrooms. The band won the Southern West Virginia Band Championship at Mullens, and the Thespians' play placed second in the state contest... 
    "In 1940 Herbert Mattick, a former band director, wrote the Welch High Pep Song: 
    'Cheer, cheer for Welch High 
    Will shine tonight. 
    We're for our varsity. 
    We'll never bow before the foe, 
    On to victory. Rah! Rah! Rah! 
    Our cheer will echo on high tonight, 
    Proudly our banners fly; 
    And so let's Fight! Fight! Fight! 
    With all our might 
    For he glory of old Welch High.' 
    (cited from MAROON WAVE, May 17, 1940) 
    "It was also in 1940 that the traditional rivalry over the 'Barrel' was begun through the work of Lilyan England and Lois Hunt. Lilyan decided it would be a good idea to give a prize to the winner of the Welch-Gary game to promote the rivalry. Since the 'Beer Barrel Polka' was the rage, they decided on a barrel. 'Bunny' Lovett, manager of Baxter's Hardware emptied a keg of nails, and the 'Beer Barrel' was born." 
    (cited from MAROON WAVE, November 27, 1957) 
    I can't guarantee that my own work from 30 years ago didn't have any typos. For example, I always thought we sang, "Our cheers will ehcho on high tonight," plural "cheers," instead of a singular "cheer." At this point you can sing it any old way you want to. Also it does appear that the original lyric for the Alma Mater was 
    "fill," not "thrill." However, you can go for all the thrills you want. 
    Hey, Joe Monti, I forgot that you were Most Valuable Speaker! 
    Anyway gang, that's my trivia contribution for today. I'm enjoying this virtual reunion with all you cyberWAVES in internet land. I'm so glad Al Gore decided to invent this for us. 
    Have a great day. Come back soon. In the meantime: "Live long and prosper." 
    Ray Kiser '69 

    Ray Kiser '69


Now, I'm almost certain it's the computer, and not me, making these typos below for your amusement
Friday, 19-Mar-1999 01:36:46
    Message:
    152.163.204.197 writes:

    It must be some kind of perfectionistic thing that won't allow me to leave my typos uncorrected.(see next two messages or massages) 
    Try: 
    "Cheer, cheer for Welch High...etc" 
    Or combine the best of the two postings below. 
    Please hurry up and add your own posting, so people won't have to face this one first thing. 
    Thank you, and God bless y'all. 

    Ray Kiser AGAIN! 


Ok so I already caught a typo below; it's late you guys.
Friday, 19-Mar-1999 01:28:31
    Message:
    152.163.204.186 writes:

    Should be: 
    "Cheer, cher for Welch High 
    Will shine tonight, 
    We're for our varsity. 
    We'll never bow before the foe, 
    On to victory. Rah! Rah! Rah! 
    Our cheer will echo on high tonight, 
    Proudly our banners fly; 
    And so let's Fight! Fight! Fight! 
    With all our might 
    For the glory of old Welch High." 

    (an alternative way I remember singing it was 
    "And so it's Fight! Fight! Fight! With all your might..." Again, take your pick.) 

    Ray Kiser


Alma Mater and Pep Song: the latest
Friday, 19-Mar-1999 01:18:25
    Message:
    152.163.204.186 writes:

    Got a note from my mother today, reminding me that I did a major paper on the history of Welch High School in my senior year. Terry Lucas kept the original. After we lost him not long ago, one of his aunts, a Mrs. Bell, sent the paper back to my mother. Here's what the paper reports, based on issues of the MAROON WAVE. 
    "In 1955 two Welch High students, Maria Sagris and Nelle Pollock, composed and presented the Welch High School Alma Mater: 
    'We hail Maroon and White 
    The banner of Welch High. 
    We're striving to excel 
    And keep our standards high. 
    As ever on through life we go 
    Our hearts with gladness fill 
    When looking back through time we see 
    Our dear school on the hill.' 
    (This is a direct quote from the MAROON WAVE,vol. 18, April, 1955. 
    Here are a few more tidbits of trivia about that Class of 1955. 
    "It was also during this school year of 1954-55, that the Key Club was organized with Sam V. Romeo as the sponsor and Paul Griegal as the first president. The Homecoming Queen was Rhonda Tolliver, and the May King and Queen were Bill Tolley and Sandra Waltz. Peggy Kern and Leon Kemp were co-valedictorians. Maria Sagris was editor of the annual, Outstanding Senior, and Salutatorian. The Most Valuable Speaker was Joe Monti." 
    Ready for another blast from the past? 
    "The year of 1939-40 opened with the first use of the gymnasium and its six new classrooms. The band won the Southern West Virginia Band Championship at Mullens, and the Thespians' play placed second in the state contest... 
    "In 1940 Herbert Mattick, a former band director, wrote the Welch High Pep Song: 
    'Cheer, cheer for Welch High 
    Will chine tonight. 
    We're for our varsity. 
    We'll never bow before the foe, 
    On to victory. Rah! Rah! Rah! 
    Our cheer will echo on high tonight, 
    Proudly our banners fly; 
    And so let's Fight! Fight! Fight! 
    With all our might 
    For he glory of old Welch High.' 
    (cited from MAROON WAVE, May 17, 1940) 
    "It was also in 1940 that the traditional rivalry over the 'Barrel' was begun through the work of Lilyan England and Lois Hunt. Lilyan decided it would be a good idea to give a prize to the winner of the Welch-Gary game to promote the rivalry. Since the 'Beer Barrel Polka' was the rage, they decided on a barrel. 'Bunny' Lovett, manager of Baxter's Hardware emptied a keg of nails, and the 'Beer Barrel' was born." 
    (cited from MAROON WAVE, November 27, 1957) 
    I can't guarantee that my own work from 30 years ago didn't have any typos. For example, I always thought we sang, "Our cheers will ehcho on high tonight," plural "cheers," instead of a singular "cheer." At this point you can sing it any old way you want to. Also it does appear that the original lyric for the Alma Mater was 
    "fill," not "thrill." However, you can go for all the thrills you want. 
    Hey, Joe Monti, I forgot that you were Most Valuable Speaker! 
    Anyway gang, that's my trivia contribution for today. I'm enjoying this virtual reunion with all you cyberWAVES in internet land. I'm so glad Al Gore decided to invent this for us. 
    Have a great day. Come back soon. In the meantime: "Live long and prosper." 
    Ray Kiser '69 

    Ray Kiser '69


Iaeger High Alumni on the web
Thursday, 18-Mar-1999 21:02:28
    Message:
    205.156.240.49 writes:

    Just received word that the Iaeger Cubs now have a web site. It is located at http://iaegerhigh81.freeservers.com/reunionpage.htm 

    Don Juan (Collins) Skuja


More Memories
Thursday, 18-Mar-1999 08:49:45
    Message:
    199.173.225.2 writes:

    As I've read all these messages with memories, they've brought back images and thoughts I haven't had in years. 

    I'm sitting in Slick's Chemistry class honing my dictation-taking skills when the PA system begins to hum and the microphone gets banged on the desk. "Now listen to these announcements!!!" it bleats. "There will be a pep rally in the auditorium at lunch time and I don't want anything thrown from the balcony." Slick says, "Why doesn't he just say 'Now hear this'". I don't know what happened to those chemistry notes, but they were probably a good reference for those who had to take chem in college. 

    The two most useful classes I took at WHS have served me well over the years. I'm using one of them right now, thanks to Mrs. Lovett. I did learn to type (unlike John Stafford, I use both caps and lowercase), despite John Parker constantly filling my typewriter with wadded-up balls of paper during timed writings. Because of her class, I never paid anyone to type a paper in college and when I entered the computer age, I only had to learn what a computer was, not keyboarding skills. Thanks, Mrs. Lovett - and thanks for letting me date your daughter for a while. Nina and I always remained good friends. 

    The other skill was developed by Mr. Lassak. Like Ray Kiser, I started my music career with Mr. Peraldo at Welch Elementary in violin class. Unlike Ray, I never mastered that instrument, though I do still play occassionally. Mr. Lassak taught me the trumpet that became my life-long love. How many of you learned skills in high school that actually made money for you in college? (Let's keep this clean, it's a family show, you know). While at Concord, I played for 4 years with the Concord Commanders and made some good spending money on the weekends playing at dances. Boy, doing something you love and getting paid for it, too - regardless of what Michelob says, it doesn't get any better than that. I still play for my own enjoyment and have played at a couple of weddings. Since this web site, I've found out that I still know the Alma Mater AND the pep song. I'll always be able to play "Mr. Touchdown". I think we played that more than the pep song. 

    Are any of you from the Class of '69 still "Dizzy" from "The Monkey's Paw"? While the earlier production of "Our Town" may have been the most outstanding class play WHS ever produced, ours was probably one of the most bizarre. 

    Remember when the guys (the big ones, not the skinny ones like me) used to turn Coach Orrison's Simca around in the upper-level parking lot? 

    I'll never forget my trip to All-Area Band in Bluefield with "Marvelous" Marvin Smallwood and Fred Barnes. I think our band was the only one in the state that would only let you go once, so more kids would have the opportunity. I'm sure Mr. Lassak took some criticism for that, but I always thought he had everyone's best interest in mind. He did give me a hard time the year I decided to be a manager on the football team and had to miss being in the band. We had a good time, though, with "Preacher" Parsons, Tom Compton, and the rest. I didn't think that team could have had their season without Preacher. Of course, it was an experience with Wayne Hicks always yelling, "come on, you hamburger". And Coach Mosco with his little Parodi, always chewed, never smoked. 

    On the home page, there's a comment about people's dreams and aspirations. One of those mentioned is my 2nd cousin, Dino Ramella. He did, in fact pursue a successful career in journalism and lives in Northern California - the Reading area, I believe. Maybe he'll log on some day and fill you all in. 

    By the time my group "came of age", Franklin Dairy had moved to lower McDowell Street, but I do remember the original near the Pocahontas Theatre. And for all it's glory, we'll never, ever forget the parking building, proudly displaying the sign "The First Municipally Owned Parking Building in the United States". Welch had many proud moments and owed a lot of them to Sam Solins, for who else could have gotten such speakers for Veterans Day as Lyndon Johnson and many of the top politicians and military brass in the country. 

    Speaking of the Pocahontas, how many of you won free tickets from Sam Sidote on WELC on the "Question of the Morning"? 

    The more we reminisce, the more memories will be evoked. We may never be able to go home again, but in our minds eye, we can see old friends, relive the experiences of our youth and help keep a perspective on the future. 

    Roy Morgan


hello
Wednesday, 17-Mar-1999 17:42:19
    Message:
    152.163.232.47 writes:

    i just found this site thanks to my sis (maria) up in maryland. it is nice to know that some of you folks from havaco are still alive and kicking. reha romans, you created a lot of crushes in all of us coal dirt encrusted havaco boys. i was also very much in love with your cousin debby. allen stroupe, i havent seen you since flea and i drove down to va beach. 1973, i think it was. its nice to know you guys are still out there. i live outside front royal, va. ralph waller and his brother bobby live near me. i see ralph (lan-o) about once a month. darrell reece works in stevens city (not far from here) he lives in wardensville, wv. i go to church with jerry dillon from premier mtn(class of 63). iwas under the impression that the seventys reunion would be every five years. let me know what is happening. i have some sad news . we lost our son, bobby last september. he was the little blond guy that we needed the sitter for at the last reunion. it has been a horrible time for us. your thoughts and prayers would be greatly appreciated. warm memories and lots of love joe longo class of 72 

    joe longo


looking for old friends
Sunday, 14-Mar-1999 11:16:10
    Message:
    153.35.236.7 writes:

    the message board is great. it is wonderful to remember when times were much simpler. i lived in davy beside the school. my older sisters were eleanor, francis,peggy,alice and marianna. all graduates of whs. triva question - who remembers 
    Mr. Richardson's nickname given to him by the students? and yes i do remember hiding in the trunk of a car to get into the starland drive-in i also crawled under the screen on several occasions. 

    Douglas Cline


(No subject)
Saturday, 13-Mar-1999 13:34:29
    Message:
    152.163.213.54 writes:

    I graduated from Welch High School with the class of 1975 (early). My classmates were the class of 1976. I would like to hear from any old classmates. I did get the e-mail address of someone I was in the band with and was so glad to get back in touch after all these years.My younger brother told me about this website and I think it is great. 

    Connie Dority Arnett


LAST INVITATION
Friday, 12-Mar-1999 14:57:25
    Message:
    137.45.96.14 writes:

    My heavy heart has now been renewed and I feel like singing again, but don't I think there are words to Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White. (You don't want to hear me sing anyway.) 

    This is my last invitation. Some 300 hundred entries ago there were several invitations made from class of '69 to join us in a 60's reunion in August. Since then I have read and re-read you guys saying "when is the next reunion; is there going to be a reunion; let's get the 60's together; be sure to let me know when the next reunion will be." Oh, you read it to. OK, I am letting you know, (for the 4th time) what are you going to do about it? Time is ticking away and on August 13 and 14 I'll be in Welch, roaming the streets (trying to figure out just where the heck was Carman's café, remember the little hole in the wall beside Witten's Floral Shop or some where in there) taking a stroll "ON THE HILL" and missing you. The floor's open, DJ is hired, and I need a partner (my husband has two left feet) -- are you coming? Contact Mary Spano Clark at merchant@inetone.net -- Or Connie Ellis Williams at pooky@citlink.net. Speak now or forever hold your horses. EVERYONE OF YOU are welcome, I am going to the 40's Reunion in July, I may see some of you there, look me up, I'll be with the prettiest Mom there, (my Mom of course). 

    Rhonda Lane Goad


Make New Wave Friends
Thursday, 11-Mar-1999 19:04:56
    Message:
    206.101.103.112 writes:

    The messages on this forum are wonderful. I agree we all have the same upbringing in a wonderful secluded place deep in the mountains of McDowell county. Our culture is rare due to the great pride our teachers instilled in us.It did not matter if we were the have or have nots when we walked off the hill of that precious school for the last time we never left feeling defeated. There was a lot of us and some of our classmates we barely knew maybe because as young teens we have our special friends. But as adults would it be great if we can drop a line and ask " how are you and what are you doing now"? to a classmate you barely knew. I bet most of us would be surprised how that shy student in the back of the class is doing and gosh how pleased they would be just to know you care if they come to the next reunion. COME ON MAROON WAVES ! let us embrace and unite all our classmates. I bet we find some really neat friends that we just never took the time to get to know them. 

    A Proud Maroon Wave


YOU CAN NEVER GO BACK HOME......
Thursday, 11-Mar-1999 17:46:31
    Message:
    152.163.232.48 writes:

    Irregardless of the age, maturity (or lack of), education, etc., etc., some people never change. No matter how hard you try, you can't ever go back "home" again so forget the grudges! Stop trying to re-establish the "clicks". GO FORWARD! 

    There's no need to compete -- no matter what school we attended or to which organizations we did (or did not) belong. Some of us don't want to relive those days of being high school outcasts because of where we lived or who we weren't. We're adults -- not immature school kids! 

    We all share the common bond of having come from the same area, being of the same basic culture and having been taught the same 
    fundamentals of life. 

    There's a low of excitement being expressed over the opportunity to find old friends and establish new friendships. A lot of work has gone into this site. Don't forget its intended purpose. It only takes one rotten apple to spoil the whole barrel. Let's get back on the right track and not allow that to happen. 

    WV PRIDE 
     


Class of 53
Thursday, 11-Mar-1999 12:56:03
    Message:
    130.181.132.102 writes:

    I have heard from so many people from McDowell County but nothing from the class of 53. Surely, someone has a computer. Does anyone know anything about the class of 53? Anybody, anywhere, write. 

    Liz (Burton) Drees


Whew! What's Happened?
Thursday, 11-Mar-1999 12:38:11
    Message:
    205.188.199.26 writes:

    I just checked back in on the WHS "Message Board" and found a big, wet towel on it! All of a sudden, there's no "good" news like there was before. Instead, it's starting to resemble one of those "Chat Rooms" that make you want to take a shower after you leave! 

    People, we can do better than this! Maybe GHS had the right idea by NOT having a "Message Board" -- just a Guest Book for individuals to sign-in, briefly remember their past; then, get on with their life. 

    I wrote the "Embarrassed Wave Too" entry under the unfortunate "Traitors" heading. Of course I'm not going to sign my name to this, since what's more important is WHAT is said rather than WHO says it. Frankly, given what we've seen in some of these entries, our perception of some of these people would be better served had they NOTsigned what they wrote. 

    Let's do this -- Let's get the "sour grapes" and "rotten apples" out of the preverbial BARREL, cut the sucker in-half, give half of it to Welch and the other half to Gary, let them put their respective halves in their own "museams" with a "plague" on it (as someone else suggested), AND BE DONE WITH IT! 

    I'd much rather hear about Sam Muscatello's grandchildren, Ray Kiser's fond memories of Welch and the tributes from us to his Mother, plans for class reunions, the Blakely Field days, etc. than all this other stuff about which most of us could care less! 

    Let's extend the courtesy deserved by the "good-spirited" ladies who put together this wonderful medium for the exchange of "positive" information about our "positive" past. They (and we) deserve no less! 

    Now then, where's the GOOD news? 

    Signed: "Embarrassed Wave Too" 
     


GONE TO FAR - PART II
Wednesday, 10-Mar-1999 19:33:50
    Message:
    209.100.24.68 writes:

    Part II. Boy can you mess up with just the slip of the finger. "That" is what we have done. Anyway I didn't finish - but I guess I am. I hope I have made my point. When you read the following message (part I), finish it by using your imagination as we did growing up in the most wonderful place that no one else can know but us. As we paint that picure in our minds and someday get to go back just think what a thrill, and NO ONE can ever take that away from you or me, and especially the pride from those that still live there - in my home town and yours.


GONE TO FAR
Wednesday, 10-Mar-1999 19:20:40
    Message:
    209.100.24.68 writes:

    Ok, truce!!! - and no more crossing over either. (I read all that.) Enough said, lets get on with what this site was originally intended for. Are we a Maroon Wave or not? Do we have orginallity or not? Can we go on or not? Do you need a help with an idea? Here are some: 
    1. Have you counted your lucky stars lately. 
    2. Did you pull that old annual out of the closet? 
    3. Did you "actually LOOK" at your picture? 
    4. Did you "actually LOOK" at your buddies pic? 
    5. How many stars have you counted so far? 
    6. How many nights did you stay up to study?


WHOA-A-A !!!!
Wednesday, 10-Mar-1999 15:59:44
    Message:
    207.68.69.114 writes:

    In my original message, "The Barrel's Going to 
    Enemy Territory", I didn't mean to start an 
    uprising!!! I have been curious, as many of you 
    have, as to where the original barrel was. When 
    I wrote my little entry, it was meant in a light- 
    hearted manner - I certainly didn't intend anyone 
    to make disparaging remarks about GHS alumni. 
    I will agree with the "Voice of Reason" that perhaps placing the barrel in a safe place at 
    Mt.View HS would be best for a display of the 
    heritage today's younger generation could share 
    with us. Paint one side maroon and white, and 
    one side black and red - and attach a history 
    of the football series on an engraved plate. At 
    any rate, we all know our memories of these games 
    can never be removed from the place they matter 
    most: our hearts. This website is too fantastic 
    a vehicle for memories to have it ruined by 
    negative remarks. For any part my original message played in those remarks, I apologize. In 
    my high school days, WHS was well-known for its 
    superior sportsmanship...may we continue to be. 
    After all, the barrel is made of wood and paint 
    (many, many layers of paint) - but our memories 
    are made of love. I have some good friends from 
    Gary - most particularly SUE ALFORD WIDENER - I 
    sure don't want her mad at me !!! AS EVER ON 
    THROUGH LIFE WE GO, OUR HEARTS WITH GLADNESS FILL, WHEN LOOKING BACK THROUGH TIME WE SEE OUR 
    DEAR SCHOOL ON THE HILL. Roll Waves ! 

    Elinor Turner Bright


WHS Class of 1952
Wednesday, 10-Mar-1999 15:37:52
    Message:
    209.96.179.109 writes:

    The missing classmates from the Class of '52 are: 
    Phyllis Anderson 
    William Bailey 
    Robert Lee Bland 
    Bobbie Bratton 
    Josephine Broomfield 
    Carmella Bruno 
    Grace Furrow Sanders 
    George Gates 
    Sam Hazemy 
    Nellie Jo McClary 
    Mary McClure 
    Patty Marcum 
    Mary J. Martin 
    Pauline Mulkey 
    John Nigro 
    June Norton Bale 
    Katherine Perry 
    Carole Phillips 
    Margaret Prevento 
    Peggy Rice 
    Santina Savoca 
    Marchita Scott 
    Norma Stevenson Franklin 
    Jackie Wilson 

    If anyone has the address of any of these classmates, please let me know. Thanks. 

    Barry Shrout


Fill or Thrill?
Wednesday, 10-Mar-1999 08:32:55
    Message:
    166.62.179.149 writes:

    In her treatise on TRAITORS below, Rhea remembers the alma mater the way I do. We have a little side bet going with some other message board visitors. Do our hearts "fill" or "thrill" with gladness? The home page says "thrill." Can we get an official ruling? 

    Martha Johnston Manning


TRAITOR
Wednesday, 10-Mar-1999 00:34:41
    Message:
    198.64.204.94 writes:

    HANG that TRAITOR from the highest tree - hang him once for you and hang him again for me! Hang him high, let him siwing as "ROLL OUT THE BARREL" we shall sing. Tear off his clothes, show his shame let it be known that this man is "lame" . To sell his soul to a coaldigger, surely not, that rotten _ _ _ _ _ _! Should those clothes be maroon and white burn those rags, light up the night! As he swings high in that tree and those clothes smolther along with dead leaves, the night will be calm as we quiltely sing, "WE HAIL MAROON AND WHITE, THE BANNER of WELCH HIGH, We're striving to excel and keep our standards high. As ever on through life we go, Our hearts with gladness fill, When looking back at that Benedict Arnold, as his soul goes straight to hell!!! 

    Rhea Romans Worsham


The Barrel's Going to Enemy Territory
Tuesday, 09-Mar-1999 22:26:04
    Message:
    207.68.69.52 writes:

    I heard today, through one of my students, that 
    the barrel is going to be placed in a "museum" in 
    Gary !!! Supposedly, whoever had it in their 
    possession (in Welch) gave it to a COALDIGGER!!! 
    Supposedly (again!), the barrel is to be painted 
    half maroon & white, half red & black. Now I
    don't know about y'all, but thems fightin' words. 
    Didn't we whip Gary pretty badly the last game 
    between the two schools??? Whoever had it in 
    Welch should have, perhaps, placed it at the 
    city hall, painted MAROON AND WHITE. I don't 
    know, maybe I'm overreacting...any opinions on 
    the matter?? This is purported to be the actual 
    barrel. Let me hear from you, WAVES !!!! 

    Elinor Turner Bright - c/o '64


Senior Sigma Reunion
Tuesday, 09-Mar-1999 12:52:15
    Message:
    205.188.197.42 writes:

    Girls, Girls............... 
    I must make a decision on a reunion this year by tomorrow. I have heard from only 6. 
    We can do better than this. 
    I am trying for w/e June 11-13. 
    Spouses are invited. If this cannot be worked out for this year you want ro try for next???? 
    Get in touch PLEASE 

    Susan Simmons


To Bobbie Ingole Jackson
Tuesday, 09-Mar-1999 11:08:42
    Message:
    208.6.94.182 writes:

    Bobbie, 

    The reply you sent to my message re: Does Anyone Know Where They Are? had no message, just your name. Please try again 

    Diane Turner Clemins


Former favorite place in Welch
Tuesday, 09-Mar-1999 08:50:41
    Message:
    208.27.190.97 writes:

    Hello Maroon Waver's. I am a Coaldigger but certainly no stranger to Welch. I've lived here on three seperate occasions. I married a girl from Hemphill (Eloise Lester class of 56'). We presently live in North Welch. I would love to hear some comments of your past favorite places in Welch. Mine was Blakley Field. All comments would bring back pleasant memories. Especially interested in the crew that retrieved foul balls behind the bleachers. Names, what did you do with the balls, fights, names of people who worked there. Anything connected to the complex. I wanted to chase those foul balls so bad it hurt, but my Dad told me I would get killed back there. So all I could do was just watch. 

    Thank you in advance for sharing those good days. The day they did away with the field was a very sad time. Things just haven't been the same in Welch since. 

    Butch Webb 

    Butch Webb


Hello to ole school friends
Monday, 08-Mar-1999 20:32:27
    Message:
    207.92.182.9 writes:

    Just took a stroll thru memory lane and what a delightful experience. I hope to hear from a lot of my ole home town friends & classmates. I've been living in Nashville, TN for over 22 years now, so have lost touch with many folks. However, I believe the lost link(s) has been reconnected via the WHS internet. Thanks to all who put this together. If I can help with the 70's reunion, let me know. Anxious to hear from ya'll. 

    Class of '73 

    nancy burcham pirtle


Searching for Friends
Monday, 08-Mar-1999 16:54:26
    Message:
    198.64.205.25 writes:

    Spoke with my sister and she says, "HELLO" to all of you and for you to be sure and write her. She was wondering if anyone knows where Beverly Vallo, and Tom Moore can be found. She sayd that Karen Van Fleet lives in La (or did) and wonders if she is still in that city. Also, does anyone remember Vee Hassen. 

    Someone wanted to know the phone number of WOVE - well what ever happed to Paul Fortner the Dj? I know what happened to Larry Anderson whose father bought WOVE in the early 60's - he is now an Exec (thanks to good old Dad) and - he was a JUDGE at the Miss America pagent last a year or so ago!!! I also fell over when I heard the name and when he stood up - the guy hasn't changed. 

    Jackie and I also were talking about Jim Ameche - who did his student teaching as my 10th grade biology teacher (2nd Semester!) He told Jackie that if it was the last thing he did he would flunk me for embarassing him. I had to work overtime to stay ahead of that "F"! Mrs. Clark was our original bio. teacher and thank goodness she knew that I was not a "F" student! Ameche was just too good looking to be teaching the reproduction system to Jackie Trail, Jerry Murphy, the rest of us "brats"! We were also speaking of the Ramella guys... anyone?? I told her all about the website and about "October Sky" - obivously Nevada is in the dark on that one! It must be those retirement communities - they're over protective!(ha) We even spoke of "DoDo" mabe and how tragic is was that it was he bleed to death within 50 yards of a hospital! Also, has anyone kept up with David Walker and Ruth Barnes? They were such a cute couple in highschool. Sue Cardea and her brother Jerry? 
    How about Lois Barber? How about Mike Leach and his little brother Pat - the worlds' first over 6 ' tall football player! I can still see him standing heads taller than everyone else! Then on the other hand there was Ralph Waller - the shortest football in the world! Nelson Sorah - I still have my real teeth even though I almost lost them to your football spikes one night as you slid into the bench where the majorettes sat and I had just reached down to grab hold of one of the girls sitting on the ground and WHAMO! I can still see Turner jumping over the fence to help me because she thought I was spitting out my teeth - it was mud that had caked and hardened beteen Nelson's cleats! UGH!!! If anyone knows the wherebouts of any of these folks please let us know. 

    Rhea Romans Worsham


WHS Trivia -- Late 50's Early 60's
Monday, 08-Mar-1999 11:37:13
    Message:
    205.188.199.28 writes:

    1) What was the "dual-purpose" implement which replaced the class ring as the popular item to hang from the necklaces of WHS & GHS girls in the late 50's - early 60's? (Clue -- GHS's were nylon, contoured and metal tipped; WHS's were dull, flat-tipped and metal) 

    2) What was the name of the Tuba Player in the WHS marching band whose tuba was always the "target" of 20-30 water balloons tossed from the Court House steps when the WHS band marched past the original Post Office building during the annual Halloween parade? Errant throws were also known to "wipe-out" the last 2 rows of the WHS band! (Clue -- he wore a RAINCOAT in the parade his Senior year!) 

    3) What was the never-before and never-since seen audio accessory which Punky Foster had installed in the passenger side dashboard of his car? 

    4) Where in downtown Welch was the only INDOOR, heated, private swimming pool constructed which was supposed to be a "secret", yet where almost every "street-wise" Welch kid swam at least every other day without the knowledge of the very prominent owner? (Clue -- he was a public official) 

    5) What was the "unofficial" other name for "The Chatter Box"? 

    6) What was the common, colorful household item you could always see blowing in the leafless trees along the Tug River when the annual February flood waters would recede? 

    SCORING: 

    0 CORRECT = You either were'nt yet born; too old to remember, or really don't care; yet, you're ready to join the chorus of many others in yelling "Get A Life!" to the author of this trivia quiz! 

    1 TO 2 CORRECT = You knew people who participated in at least 2 of the events or visited locations mentioned in the above questions. 

    3 TO 5 CORRECT = You personally participated in at least 3 of the events; were or dated a GHS or WHS football player; were in the band and knew Billy Woods; knew how to get into the lower level alley door of Mayor Swope's office; you loved listening to 45rpm records while driving the streets of Welch; your outhouse always had toilet paper (more when the Tug flooded!). 

    WHSMW101@aol.com


Governor Underwood
Sunday, 07-Mar-1999 23:29:35
    Message:
    152.163.197.187 writes:

    I just returned from seeing October Sky--what a fabulous story--made even more so by the fact that Governor and Mrs. Underwood sat directly behind me! 

    Thanks to this message board, I've found out that Sherry Compton's daughter and mine are both sophomores at Wake Forest....It sure is a small world. 
     

    Marta Davis MacCallum Class of '67


wasn.t ther some BYRDS in late 60's and early 70's
Sunday, 07-Mar-1999 16:59:19
    Message:
    205.188.197.37 writes:

    where are they now


(No subject)
Sunday, 07-Mar-1999 16:43:43
    Message:
    204.211.226.101 writes:

    have no email address yet. seen your message on WHS page are you the Ed that was always smiling. also the one playing or practicing the violin with your mother one day that i was delivering the paper. live in newton N.C>still working. mailman. 

    Heenan Wilson


Where did that music come from????
Saturday, 06-Mar-1999 21:58:18
    Message:
    207.68.69.129 writes:

    Alot of you have asked: "where did that music 
    come from?" Well, as a sophomore during the 
    '61-'62 school year, I remember our band playing 
    that song in the stands at every football game. 
    Sam Rickman had a trumpet solo and really could 
    tear the song up! For those of you too young to 
    remember, the song was "Cherry Pink & Apple Blossom White"....Nancy and DonJuan, I understand 
    why you chose the song....I'm sure it brings back 
    many memories of that time. I know it does for me 
    as that was "Sandy's" senior year and I was secretly adoring him as he flew down the field 
    in maroon and white. On another note, in case 
    anyone is interested and will be in Myrtle Beach 
    the week of July 11-17th, we're having a mini- 
    reunion of our own that week. The crew includes: 
    us, Alan & Jane Jenkins, Dickie & Sue Widener, 
    Lanny & Dianne Meade Oblinger, Jim Ed & Dianne 
    Roberson, Bobby & Judy Mitchell, Russell & Betty 
    Chaos Rice. If you are going to be at the beach 
    then and want to know any particulars, feel free 
    to e-mail us any time. 

    Elinor Turner Bright - c/o '64


Homer on TV early this AM
Saturday, 06-Mar-1999 16:37:16
    Message:
    152.163.204.52 writes:

    Did any of you see Homer Hickam on the late, late show with Tom Snyder early this AM. I taped it so I can play it for friends and tell them this talened man is from my area of West Viriginia. I am anxious to see October Sky when it is in Charleston, West Virginia. 

    Take care and God Bless and I look forward to the forties reunion in July. 

    Gladys J. De Felice


Does Anyone Know Where They Are?
Saturday, 06-Mar-1999 14:05:59
    Message:
    208.6.94.61 writes:

    Does anyone know where the following people from Class of 70 might be? Burley Warf, Doug Smith, Wayne Meadows, Dickie Andes and Blair Vass, and from Class of 69 (I think) Nick Melnick? Me, Cathy Bright, and the above guys used to spend late afternoons sitting in Franklin's Dairy solving the problems of the world after they got out of Voc. School. We all really got to be good friends our Junior and Senior years. I don't think I've seen any of them since. 

    Blair, Dickie and I used to ride in Blair's VW Beatle and "jump" the town side entrance to Summers Street everytime we had snow. We used that old VW like a snowmobile coming out of Edmore Hollow. 

    None of these guys were at 70's reunion. If you know their whereabouts or email addresses, I'd love to know! 

    Diane Turner Clemins


Senior Sig Reunion
Saturday, 06-Mar-1999 08:37:29
    Message:
    152.163.201.77 writes:

    Please respond if interested as soon as possible. 
    Oceanfront acc. sought @ Carribean Resort and Villas. Sea Captains Rest. (Private Room) 
    And Bumz oceanfront bar and grill with outside 
    seating w/i walking distance. 
    Broadway at the Beach shopping and celebrity Square(Great Entertainment) area has app. 8-9 Bars and dancing in a closed section. 
    Believe me, if I took the time to go and really miss that particular feature it is well worth your time to check it out. 
    I will need to know by Monday the # of interested parties. 
    This is for any former member of S. Sigs 

    Susan Simmons


MEMORIES OF THE TIC TOC GRILL 
Saturday, 06-Mar-1999 07:51:33
    Message:
    166.55.227.214 writes:
     

    Q. Does anybody remember how the Tic Toc Grill spelled the plural of "lunch" on its sign outside? 
    A: LUNCHE'S (HARBRACE 18d) 
    nd it wasn't a small sign. No, it was about 10 feet long, green neon. Or was it pink? I'm sure Miss Agee had a cow every time she looked at that! Barbara Dawson Cassell needs to get one of those signs made for the Tic Toc II in their basement. 

    Somebody needs to write a book of Welchisms. 

    Martha Johnston Manning


Coaldigger Website
Friday, 05-Mar-1999 13:36:38
    Message:
    198.64.222.131 writes:

    Has any gotten the Coaldigger Alumni Website to open? I can only get a black and red screen and just sits there! Hmmmmmm. Just another indication that the computer age isn't 100% - YET... 

    Or maybe Gary being even further up a "holler" than Havaco has something to do with it! (Just kidding) 

    I'm sure we all had "friends" from Gary High School at certain times of the year - excluding the week before and the month after all Gary/Welch football games and would love to be able to chat with them so if anyone has the secret to opening this site - I'm all E-Mail! 

    Rhea Romans Worsham


1950 AND 1951 GRADUATES
Thursday, 04-Mar-1999 20:17:34
    Message:
    205.188.193.171 writes:

    Where are the 1950 and 1951 Graduates? 
    Lets hear from you. 
    What about the HAVACO Gang? 
    Where are you-Pete Tolley, Jerry Tolley,Carl 
    Tolley,Bobby Stroupe, Hale Brothers,Chesley Orrison, come on guys sign on. 

    Hassel A. Blankenship


October Sky
Thursday, 04-Mar-1999 16:11:29
    Message:
    152.163.195.183 writes:

    Saw October Sky last night. Brought back a lot of memories. Hope everyone gets a chance to see it. It's a great movie. thanks H. Hickam. 

    Lucy Caporossi Gill


"WELCH 0"
Thursday, 04-Mar-1999 08:18:13
    Message:
    166.55.228.250 writes:

    Does anybody know if the mileage distance sign that was at the city limit just outside Southwood is still there? It said "Welch 0." That was a classic! Also, has anybody ever seen a zero on a distance sign anywhere else in the world? 
     

    MARTHA JOHNSTON MANNING


ATT: ALL SENIOR SIGS-REUNION BEING PLANNED
Thursday, 04-Mar-1999 08:17:42
    Message:
    152.163.207.72 writes:

    While I still have a few connections in M.B. I 
    spoke with the powers that be yesterday and I 
    think I can pull a reunion together for the 2 or 3rd week in June this year. All interested please sign Message Board ASAP. 
    Rebecca, this is your chance to go to the Beach.I'm sure Mom would allow it this time!!!!! 

    Susan Simmons


thanks for the web site
Thursday, 04-Mar-1999 06:43:36
    Message:
    168.216.241.9 writes:

    the page is great; it good to see how people are doing. i have been in eduacationfor 30+ years the last ten in administration. who would have believed that. my wife of 30 years is a counselor at our rival high school. drop me a line it would be great to hear from you. 

    ron oliver


WELCH TRIVIA CHALLENGE
Wednesday, 03-Mar-1999 16:47:40
    Message:
    166.55.228.104 writes:

    Hands on your buzzers! Test your knowledge and skill! Do not leave any answers blank. Good Luck! 

    1. What was the last word shouted at the end of the cheer called “the Pyramid”? 
    2. What was painted on the cliff visible from the Pais family’s living room window? 
    3. Who was Class of 1969’s homecoming queen? 
    4. Who was “King of the Rail” in ’67, ’68, ‘69, ’70, ’71, ’72, ’73 (or any year you remember) 
    5. Who was the DJ at WOVE? 
    6. What was the phone number for WOVE? 
    7. What was the name of the public park just outside the city limits, now the Spano’s house? 
    8. Who were the two most popular bands to play at the Legion or Moose dances? 
    9. What did girls use to handcraft long paper chains in jr. high/high school? 
    10. How did Nancy Martin bruise her arm so badly at the 1970(?) Keyette Convention at Pipestem? 
    11. Who had the best “carved” Weejuns at WHS? (Answers will vary.) 
    12. Who was on the first-ever WHS golf team? 
    13. Who was your date at the Welch Christmas formal your senior year? (Answers should vary.) 
    14. Who was your date at the Gary Christmas formal your senior year? 
    15. What irked you most about Beaver’s cheerleaders? (Is that redundant?) 
    16. Who was your favorite teacher? 
    17. Least favorite teacher? 
    18. Most unforgettable teacher? 
    19. What color was the Lewis’ brown pinto? 
    20. Name the 3 drugstores in Welch in 60’s-70’s era. 
    21. What was the name of the Welch community’s club for music enthusiasts? 
    22. Who was the hunk who delivered groceries from Harry’s? 
    23. What was the name of the Italian restaurant next to Harry’s on Stewart Street? 
    24. What two words were added to help clarify the sign “Right On Red” at Lambert’s grill? 
    25. What was odd about the stop sign at White’s Grocery (intersection of Maple and Virginia Avenues)? 
    26. Where was the Wine Bowl played each Thanksgiving? 
    27. Where is curb service never offered? 
    28. What was Seldon Alpert's nickname? 

    Martha Johnston Manning


PICK THE 1970 MAY KING AND QUEEN: rules inside
Wednesday, 03-Mar-1999 15:23:58
    Message:
    208.236.152.126 writes:

    The messages below got me thinking. Thirty years is long enough without a May King and Queen. Only two rules: 
    RULE 1: "Obey all rules" (WVa's own Barney Fife). 

    Rule 2: Nobody even remotely serious or cruelly in jest. 

    For example: try Shibby Woebe and the Transister Sister 

    After all, we deserve 'em! 

    I coulda been a Homecoming King or a May Court lord..


Update on the Maitland Smiths
Tuesday, 02-Mar-1999 23:23:07
    Message:
    208.22.176.155 writes:

    I've only been aware of this web site for about 2 weeks but find myself eager to check it daily. I'm glad I made myself become computer literate in spite of feeling pretty dumb in the process. 

    My brother, John (Smith), graduated in '57. He is a retired state policemen and now works for the WV Dept. of Employment. He lives in Ft. Ashby, WV, near Cumberland, Maryland. He is married to Marilyn and their only son, John, and his wife have Nicholas who is 2 years old. 

    Jerry ('60)lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He and Deborah have 2 sons, Brian and Graham. Brian is a physician doing a psychiatric residency at UNC, Chapel Hill. He's getting married this summer. Graham is a graduate of the University of Michigan and hasn't decided his next move. Jerry is retired but very busy acting as a consultant. He has a PhD in virology and has focused on the development of new products (diagnostic tests, etc.) 

    Danny ('67) married Linda Kay Camper and they live in Beckley as do I and our mother. They have one son, Drew, who can often be read about in the newspaper as he's a starter on the Woodrow Wilson basketball team (state champs the past 2 years). 
    Danny is involved in several businesses, the primary ones dealing with certain mining products. 

    I've been divorced for more years than I can remember. I've worked at the V.A. hospital here in Beckley for over 20 years. I'm a nurse and am similar to a case manager. My son, Jimmy, is an attorney here in town. David lives in Charleston and works in the insurance industry. Neither seems eager to get married. I'm not sure what their girlfriends think about that. 

    One of my best friends in the class of '58 was Norma Knea. She and her husband had retired to Florida and shortly thereafter she got sick (cancer of the pancreas)and died in 1997. She was a teacher and loved it. Our friend, Rhoda Parker Copley, and her husband, Don, also live in Florida and were able to support Norma during her illness. 

    I hope this message hasn't put you to sleep. I never knew how to say anything in just a few words. I'm looking forward to learning more about all of you. This web site and "Rocket Boys/October Sky" have really put me in a McDowell Co. frame of mind. 

    Linda Smith Stacy 

    Linda Smith Stacy


Class of 70 Memories
Tuesday, 02-Mar-1999 20:34:50
    Message:
    205.188.197.47 writes:

    I'm ready for a Senior Sig reunion. I would like to hear from Nancy Compton, Robin Harman and the rest of you hell raisers. Remember when we had to be separated on the beach by haves and have nots or was it Knots? That was Gypsy's idea. Remember that Bobby Lewis came down to the beach in the cab of an HC Lewis oil tanker truck? I think that was his first time seeing the ocean. I'm sure he doesn't remember much about the week.. Hi to you Susan Simmons. We almost came in to your restaurant this summer but it was so crowded we couldn't find a place to park. Remember our great homecoming, class play, and May Court? Remember decorating the goal posts at the football field. Now we know how a fireman feels! got to go pick up the kids. Lindsey gets her license Friday and maybe I won't stay in the car all the time. By the way, Ralph Tinney. I lost your address. e mail me again. 

    Joanne Johnston Ritter


reunion
Tuesday, 02-Mar-1999 16:51:13
    Message:
    12.70.21.184 writes:

    Did'nt notice a class of 66 reunion.Would like to know if one is in the works. 

    carolyn Hope Burchett Myers


the best years of our lives
Tuesday, 02-Mar-1999 01:11:37
    Message:
    205.188.199.164 writes:

    wow the memories that these messages bring back. who could ever forget the graet football games , the record hop, where i fell in love to many times to recall, the sweet smell when you walked into franklins dairy, the tic toc grill, the friendly grill, ruccis pastry shop, the starland drive in theater, did anybody else besides me try to slip in free inside a car trunk? and how many times have we traveled around the wva and sterling drive ins, remember the howdy house where a dj use to play music atop the rock wall , does anybody remember the name of the dj at the record hop, was it russell j cook? wheres jimmy joe stamper, i wonder if he can still move like he use to? i grew up in havaco and remember icecicles hanging from our porch that were 6 ft tall and as big around as your leg, it seems like it snowed threr about twic a week, and how about when the old tug river use to overflow about every year. everbody should have grown up in our town during the 50s and 60s, and then they could say that those were the best years of their lives 

    allen stroupe


Class of 58
Monday, 01-Mar-1999 22:13:33
    Message:
    209.240.197.32 writes:

    Does anyone remember my dad? (Earl R. Patrick Jr) 
    He lived in Davy and i think he graduated in 58 Im not real sure. 

    Debbie Dority


Teachers and classmates of our past
Monday, 01-Mar-1999 00:34:11
    Message:
    198.64.222.192 writes:

    I sit here reading the different messages and start remembering those football games - and I am sure it was probably Mullens, as Pineville was a sickly bunch that year, that Smithburger took down. That was a FUN year with exception of the State Championship being given to Buchannan bacause of a few lousy yards. I still think that we should have gotten to fight for it! I can still see those Buchannon sissys sitting on the side of the road as our band marched past (Strwaberry Fest.) with thier little beanies on their sweet little heads. I think that the cheerleaders and majorettes could have beat them in a game! I'm still mad after all these years. 

    Gosh it was good to hear Mrs. Kiser's name again, Ms. Gray, Ms. Lovett, Mr. Jack, etc... Wher is Ms. Lincous. Ms. Marchatella, Mr. Sinecrope(sp) and Jeanne (the ex- Secty), just so many others that I can't remember at the moment. I suppose Ms. Nutter is in that kitchen in the sky and Ms Stephenson is leading one of the choirs up there. Old Beak is yelling at his former students who have gone to their just rewards, Mr. Lassak has a band that can't be beat and Miss Agee is tip toeing through the clouds being her "upscale" self. I have Miss Agee's silver that she acquired when engaged to be married. You best know that I don't use that silver - I worship it. I felt so privileged to be given something so scared to a young person in love. Miss Agee never married because he Mother stopped her from marrying the only man she ever loved. Why? Because the marriage would have required LaNelle to live in Europe. At least that is what Miss Agee told my Mother when she delivered the silver to her as a present to me. I was overwhelmed and still am. 

    Does anyone know where Bobby Hull and his beautiful voice ever ended up? What ever became of the Gearing kids (Charlie, Johnny & Mary) and the Camper girls? Kip Lewis? Eddy Hughes? Scott Robinson was here in Houston but I have lost touch. Regina Richarson is another one of our missing. The Cloer sisters, Betty Jane Sarver (sp), Mary Clark Blevins, Eddy Blevins, The twins who were majorettes, also the Lumbardo sisters, Ramona Rutledge, and many others. 

    Hopefully we'll find many more of everyones ex-classmates and this page can grow to great lengths! 

    I was really proud of Homer Hickam on Letterman . We can all stand proud. I was truly impressed. Hey, he didn't even sound like a "hick" - whatever that sound is....(ha) West Virginian's have now lost their stigma of being in the dark ages and uneducated. This man has proven that people from our state are intelligent and can read! I gave him a standing ovation. Thanks again Homer. 

    I am sure that there are many more books in our ranks - its just finding the time to write them. 
     

    Do you ex-cheerleaders remember the basketball cheering outfits my Mother sewed for you - Brenda Lucado, etc...? Mother also Sewed the summer majorette outfits for the band (at just the cost of the material for both) She loved doing those type of things for our school. I still can't sew a strraight seam, my sister, Jackie, got that talent also! 

    Rhea Romans Worsham


Staying in touch
Sunday, 28-Feb-1999 18:35:43
    Message:
    207.172.58.24 writes:

    Hi, 
    This message board is great, even for those of us whose parents are the WHS grauduates. My parents have asked me to post a message. They would love to hear from old friends. You can e-mail them through me (I promise to get them the message). Also, if anyone would like to get in touch with Larry Lawson or Bonnie (Shoursky - not sure I spelled that right) Lawson I can get them a message. My parents are Sue and Jerry Hicks (all four class of '61 except Bonnie who graduated in '62). 

    Thanks! 

    Lisa Hicks


The greatest Welch-Gary game
Sunday, 28-Feb-1999 11:09:45
    Message:
    206.102.67.150 writes:

    It was about 1946 and a very cold Thanksgiving day when we went to Coaldigger field. I was about 10. Gary pushed the Maroon Wave all over the field, but the Wave hung in there and trailed by only 3 or 4 points with only a minute or so to go. Gary was driving, when a fumble occured on about our 10 yard line. I was scooped up by Philip Brunchwyler who ran, stumbled, fell and near expired before he crossed the goal line, winning the game for the MW. Philip's sister Judith was a classmate of mine. Forty or 45 years later, I found myself in a medical office building in Washdc to take the deposition of a doctor and as I searched for the name on the directory, I came across "Philip Brunchwyler, M.D.". The suspense was too much. I entered his office and noted instantly he was a pediatrician. I noticed one white coat in the back, among several patients and nurses.I asked so that all could hear if he were the same P. B. who had scored that winning touchdown. To his staff's glee, he danced around the office knowing that his fame had finally been verified. He then turned to me and said, "And who in hell are you?". 

    dick douglas


greatest game ever played
Saturday, 27-Feb-1999 22:00:50
    Message:
    152.163.204.49 writes:

    since i have the tape and hooks did not carry the ball every play -can u quess who ran the ball? 

    YES I HAVE THE GAME ON VIDEO 

    chip lawson


Memories: Football, Fires, and Drive-ins, 60's & 50's
Saturday, 27-Feb-1999 18:51:07
    Message:
    153.34.10.142 writes:

    FOOTBALL: Martha Johnston Manning's message about the greatest Welch-Gary game, got me to thinking about the greatest Welch football team. In my memory, there's no question the best was the 1963 squad, led by the class of '64. I believe they were the only Welch team to go undefeated and untied--and one of the few WHS squads to beat Bluefield in the days when the Beavers seemed to run the show. That '63 group was rooked out of the state championship by a system of voters and ratings, which punished them for not having enough AAA teams on the schedule. The way they determined the state champion in those years was a total scandal. Mayor Swope made up for it on Veterans' Day, when Vice-President Johnson (only 11 days before the Kennedy assasination) spoke at the Pocahontas Theater. Mayor Swope all but ignored the Vice-President, while he waxed on and on about the glorious undefeated football team, which as far as he was concerned was the best anywhere, and especially No. 1 in West Virginia. Jim Smithburger and Don Roberts were two of the seniors who were named to the national All America team. Smithburger later played on a national champion Notre Dame team. Roberts played center for Army. Several others from '63-'64 got college scholarships as well. I still remember one play--I think it was against Pineville--in which Smithburger dropped deep to receive a punt. He raced toward one sideline, where the entire Pineville team was moving in anxious pursuit. As Smithburger saw them cluster in front of him, just yards away, he stopped hard, then turned on a backward loop, outracing the entire Pineville squad across the field. Jimmy then sped down the opposite sideline untouched into the endzone. Normally that kind of move doesn't work, but Jimmy's speed and Pineville's mistakes combined for a spectacular play. I haven't seen anything quite like it since. Does anyone else remember this? Was it Pineville or Mullens? (Another great memory from the class of '64 was their excellent production of Thornton Wilder's "OUR TOWN." You guys were awesome.) 
    FIRES: Ours was the last group to start elementary school on The Hill in the fall of 1957. In February, 1958, a fire gutted the north building (nearest the Episcopal Church)where the grade school classes were located. Expansion construction on the second floor of the north Welch school was hastened, so we could finish our school year there. We only lost a few days of classes. I still remember Mrs. Stephenson, music teacher, teaching us first graders Christmas songs. I think she stayed with the Jr. and Sr. High. We struggled to find and keep music teachers for the new Welch Elementary. 
    DRIVE-INS: The West Virginia and the Sterling were it. The West Viriginia was a more popular hang-out for my class. The Sterling is the only one that survives. In recent years the Sterling has gone back to curb service, and you can get pretty good food there. So whenever you're in town, give them some business so they can keep going. When I was a child, my mother used to bribe me into going downtown with her by promising me a chocolate shake at the Flat Iron. They're still there too, and their shakes are still worth the trip. I'm sure they'd also be glad to take your business anytime. Hello to Joe Monte and the Flat Iron gang! 
    MOM: My mother, Helen Kiser, taught 5th grade at Welch Elementary, and then 7th and 8th grade sciences at Welch Jr. High. She still lives in Welch. She is always delighted to hear from former students. She doesn't do email, yet. So you can snail mail her at P.O. Box 369, Welch, WV 24801. She has been suffering some sciatica pain lately, so cheerful greetings right now would be great. 
    Since March of '97 my family and I have lived in Corpus Christi, TX, where I am senior pastor of First United Methodist Church, a 3400 member congregation with a beautiful location on the bayfront (www.ccfumc.com). My wife Stacy is a hospital administrator, and we have a two-year-old son, Christopher. That's right, he's 2, and I'm 48! (Yes, first wife and first child) I'm looking forward to being a member of the PTA and the AARP at the same time. Peace, Ray 

    Ray Kiser '69


Where is '74???
Saturday, 27-Feb-1999 10:44:09
    Message:
    207.173.233.59 writes:

    Where are all the members of the Class of '74? I had some GREAT friends in that class and haven't seen or heard from or about many of them since graduation (although I graduated in '75). Someone let me know where they went to??? 

    Cheryl Stepp Trull


The Barrel
Saturday, 27-Feb-1999 08:09:30
    Message:
    12.5.42.154 writes:

    I read with interest the page about the history of the barrel. When I attended the reunion for the '70s in 1997, we were all wondering what had happened to it after the consolidation. Mr. Roberts, now superintendent, told us he though it was in the vault at the Board offices. I didn't know about a Welch-Gary Middle School barrel game, so I don't know if it's the same barrel or not. Any other info? 

    Jana (Goode) Church


October Sky Soundtrack
Saturday, 27-Feb-1999 00:25:54
    Message:
    152.163.201.67 writes:

    I enjoyed music in movie almost as much as the story. I'm sure everyone who listened to Randy's Record Shop on WLAC will enjoy the Soundtrack. Do yourself a favor and pick it up if you like some obscure as well as the more recognizable songs. I wonder if Homer had a hand in picking out music. 

    John Spencer '58 

    John Spencer


THE WEB AND FRIENDS
Friday, 26-Feb-1999 17:57:00
    Message:
    205.242.144.149 writes:

    HELLO TO THE MEMBERS OF THE WAVE CREW. POSTED LAST EVENING AND READ ALL THE MESSAGES EVERYONE PLACED ON THE WEB SITE. CUDO'S TO THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SITE AND TO EACH AND EVERYONE WHO IS A ALUMNI, IN ONE WAY OR ANOTHER, THIS IS AS GOOD AS IT GETS. I WILL VISIT THE SITE SEVERAL TIMES WEEKLY, AS TIME AND JOB ALLOW, BUT BE ASSURED OF ONE THING, THERE IS NO NEWS AS THE WORDS WRITTEN BY THOSE WHOM YOU SPENT THE EARLY YEARS OF YOUR LIFE WITH. TO THOSE OF YOU FROM THE DAVY REGION, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME AND CHEW ME OUT FOR NOT KEEPING IN CONTACT OVER THE YEARS, AND I ASSURE YOU THAT I WILL ANSWER ANY AND ALL REPLYS. THOUGH I WAS TIRED AT 2:00 A.M. THIS MORNING, FOR THE JOY IT BROUGHT MY HEART TO SEE NAMES OF THOSE WHOM I GREW UP WITH, THERE IS NO COMPARISON. MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL. 

    JERRY HUBBARD


The Greatest Welch-Gary Game
Friday, 26-Feb-1999 17:33:29
    Message:
    166.55.63.104 writes:

    Was there ever a better football game than the 1969 Welch-Gary game? Welch-38; Gary-36. Joanne's senior year. I was in 9th grade. I still have a miniature replica of the 1969 Barrel on my bookshelf. I wish I had a video of that game. I'd play it along with my 1999 Fiesta Bowl tape and UT-FLA 1998. I remember Bobby Lewis (12) played a whale of a game. Was Jerry Lambert (11) QB? If anybody remembers highlights/stars/key plays of the game, please share them with all or email me! I'm sure many of you will agree that was one of the greatest games in the storied rivalry. It was one of my fondest memories of Welch 

    Martha Johnston Manning


(No subject)
Friday, 26-Feb-1999 15:55:27
    Message:
    205.188.199.176 writes:

    One of my fondest memories of being in Welch was Mrs. Richardson's class where we learned une and urn in French. Our class would live for the moment when Mr. Richardson would come on the loudspeaker, bang the microphone on the desk a few times to get everyone's attention, and say, "Attention, attention. Jim Crockett come to the office, AND BRING YOUR BOOKS." The class would send up a loud cheer accompanied by claps and hoots. Jim, I'll meet you under the streetlight, and pop the top on one for me!" 

    Diana Gray Chips


Looking for old friends
Friday, 26-Feb-1999 10:29:30
    Message:
    206.175.49.38 writes:

    I did not graduate from Welch High School but, graduated from Iaeger High School in 1967. We are having a reunion for the whole decade of the 60's on April 10 at the Holiday Inn in Bluefield and are looking for some of our old friends from Welch High School. Does anyone know what ever happened to Don Boyce? We think he graduated in 1964. 

    Sandy Howery Maniskas


So great to finally get news from Welch!
Thursday, 25-Feb-1999 23:23:13
    Message:
    206.156.193.95 writes:

    Talked with Rita (Ramella) Lawson today and told her what a super time I had reading messages last night. This is a wonderful way to get in touch with old friends! Rita, Larry Ramella, Billy Southard, Pam White and I get together regularly here in Fredericksburg, VA to remember "olden" times! 

    Helen (Sparks) Cielakie


Rocket Boys/October Sky
Thursday, 25-Feb-1999 12:54:30
    Message:
    129.71.229.227 writes:

    Please, if anyone needs a copy of "Rocket Boys" 
    (hardcover) or "October Sky" (paperback) by Homer Hickam, please let us know at Hearthside 
    Books, Bluefield, WV, 304-325-6896! We believe 
    in the book, the movie, and the author, and as a 
    hometown bookstore, we feel it our duty to get 
    this book to anyone who wants it. We have been 
    so lucky to meet so many "rocket boy fans" who have come into our bookstore, there are tons out 
    there, including us! Go Homer! 

    Anne Hess


Correcting Email Address 
Thursday, 25-Feb-1999 12:24:35
    Message:
    152.163.201.46 writes:

    I love this site. Thanks again to all who have 
    worked so hard to bring this wonderful forum of being able to communicate with old friends from 
    the past once again. I hope this correction of my email addres will assist others that wish to contact me, can now do so. I would love to hear from my classmates and others who may remember me 
    or my family. I am living in Cleveland, Ohio, have been here since graduating. 

    If anyone knows of the whereabouts of my old friends, Johnny Nigro, Deano Ferris, Russell and 
    Robert Huffman-twins, Benny Sawyer, Janette, Sonja, and Joe Longo, or any other lost classmates from the class of 52, I would appreciate whatever information anyone may have 
    about them, please let me know, thank you. 
    May the light and love of God be with you all. 

    I have 12 grandchildren, and unbelievably I am also a great grandpa, I have 1 great grandson, 
    am I getting old or what, oh my goodness. 

    Samuel Muscatello--Class of 52


HOMER
Thursday, 25-Feb-1999 11:49:31
    Message:
    204.73.55.10 writes:

    Don't forget to watch HOMER tonight on David Letterman's show! 

    He also is scheduled to appear on the Crier 
    Report on FOXNewsTV tomorrow night. I saw the movie for the second time yesterday and was able to pick up the Welch Science Fair 
    sign in the background of that one scene. I felt so proud all through the movie and at the end I thought, "How many people get a piece of their lives shown to the world in such a respectful and inspiring way." This is Homer's story of his life, but I hope he won't mind my claiming a small piece of it for myself. 

    Bonnie Boyd Tabor


(No subject)
Thursday, 25-Feb-1999 10:36:19
    Message:
    199.44.100.109 writes:

    I look forward to reading the new messages every day. It would be helpful for some of us whose memories aren't as good as they used to be if you would mention the year you graduated from WHS. 

    Jerry Farris.. '57


October Sky
Thursday, 25-Feb-1999 02:59:22
    Message:
    152.163.204.198 writes:

    After seeing the movie here in Florida, when everyone was leaving the theater, I asked, "Anyone else here from WV"? The woman in front of me turned and said, "Yes, I'm from Coalwood, and went to BCHS." Her name is Thetis Langlet (don't know maiden name). I told her of the upcoming WV reunion locally, and she plans to attend. So, now I have a new WV friend here in FL. Thanks, Homer! 

    Iris Harmon Bentley WHS 60


(No subject)
Wednesday, 24-Feb-1999 23:57:37
    Message:
    206.240.141.150 writes:

    like to hear from anyone who remember me i would of graduated in 1968 but i left welch in 1967 before my senior year. so please contact me if you remember me. 

    ronnie dale phillips


70's Reunions classmates
Wednesday, 24-Feb-1999 21:05:27
    Message:
    207.173.233.98 writes:

    We need all the 70's classmates to send your addresses or mail them. Even though you feel that we have them send them in anyway. We are planning a 70's reunion for July 2000. We will be have other internet addresses on here to contact at a later date. We need your address and any other addresses of other classmates that you have. We also need to know the name of deceased classmates if you no of any. MY address is 1285 Airport Road Welch, Wv 24801 phone number 304-436-3623 or emaill at rhettneon@yahoo.com or scarlettohara1960@Yahoo.com or sherbel1@hotmail.com 
    you should be able to get in touch by one of these. Hope you plan to attend the reunion. This will be the only one. Individual class reunions are near to impossible because of the cost. But we lan to have some free time at this reunion when the class individually can get together. We are excited. Cant wait to see everyone again. 
    Get in touch with us as soon as you can. 

    Sherry Cline Belcher


OCTOBER SKY / "Rocket Boys"
Wednesday, 24-Feb-1999 21:04:52
    Message:
    207.68.69.74 writes:

    Without a doubt, every West Virginian should 
    see and read these two products of "Sonny" Hickam's. I couldn't put the book down and hated 
    for it to end. I don't usually cry over a book, 
    but this one got to me big time. When he talked 
    about his dad toward the end, reminiscing about 
    hearing his footsteps, etc., well, I lost it. 
    The wait for the movie was well worth it - I 
    savored every minute of it, sitting in a Bluefield theater with my mother and my sisters, 
    surrounded by McDowell Countians. Homer Hickam 
    did us proud - please be sure to read the book, 
    then see the movie. THANKS, BIG CREEK HIGH SCHOOL, for producing such a person as Homer Hickam!!! 

    Elinor Turner Bright


Senior Sigmas and Keyettes
Wednesday, 24-Feb-1999 20:57:44
    Message:
    207.68.69.74 writes:

    I was a member of the Senior Sigmas as a "little 
    sister" in 1963, then as a senior member in '64; 
    I will never forget "Hell Week" either year ! 
    I was taken into the Keyettes my Junior year, 
    and loved it. We got to serve the Veteran's Day 
    dinner when LBJ, then the VP of the US, was the 
    guest. Eleven days later, he was President. 
    Many, many fantastic memories as a Keyette and 
    as a Senior Sigma - our beach trip when we stayed 
    at "Harmony House" probably tops everything !!!!! 

    Elinor Turner Bright - class of '64



 
Welch High School Class of 1969 Reunion
Wednesday, 24-Feb-1999 20:30:38
    Message:
    208.245.128.23 writes:

    Our committee has made plans for the weekend of Aug. 13 and 14. Friday night's gathering will be at the McDowell County Library where you will have a great view of the school "on the hill." 
    Some may even see if they can still walk up the hill like in the old days. Saturday night will be a dinner/dance at the Holiday Inn in Bluefield. We still need addresses and letters should be going out soon. Anyone from other classes who would like to come and party will us just contact me and I send out the information to you. 

    Mary Spano Clark


"The Rocket Boys" / "October Sky"
Wednesday, 24-Feb-1999 16:10:07
    Message:
    205.188.200.23 writes:

    Here's an update on "The Rocket Boys". I've been looking for the book since I saw the Sneak Preview of "October Sky". Couldn't find the book"The Rocket Boys" on the shelves. The book has since been republished/retitled as "October Sky"-- not "The Rocket Boys". C'mon Homer....you've got to tell us these things! Great Movie....Great Book...Great tribute to the good people of McDowell County! 

    Bob Greene


October Sky
Wednesday, 24-Feb-1999 12:06:43
    Message:
    208.6.94.209 writes:

    I went to Bluefield on 2/21 to see a private showing for McDowell Countians of October Sky. The movie was fabulous and I can't think of a better way of seeing it than w/my sisters and mother. Even if the scenery was not actually in McDowell County, they did a good job with it. I felt like I had stepped back in time. We came across as being intelligent human beings. I live in Southside Virginia where I have had to battle comments and slurs against WV for the past 21 years. 

    We should all thank Homer Hickam for letting the "outside world" know that we aren't uneducated, barefoot, idiots with no running water or indoor plumbing! EVERYONE who grew up in McDowell should read the book and see the movie. When this one comes out on home video, I WILL own it! 
    Do yourself a favor: see this movie as soon as possible. The phrase, "take me home, country roads" will never seem more real to you! 

    Diane Turner Clemins, Class of '70


Old friends
Wednesday, 24-Feb-1999 06:44:37
    Message:
    207.68.69.73 writes:

    Trying to locate Ray Burger and Harry Ballard.If anyone can help, give me a click. Thanks. 

    Sandy Bright


October Sky
Tuesday, 23-Feb-1999 16:02:35
    Message:
    137.45.96.14 writes:

    The movie was wonderful. My tears flowed so fast I couldn't keep up so I just put my handkerchief across the bridge of my nose and let it pour. I heard comments like, "that don't look like Coalwood, or Welch, or, etc. Let's get this straight. It was not filmed in WV, nor Coalwood. The characteristic of most coal camps looked like that portrayed in the movie, Coalwood was the exception. This is all about a young man struggling against all odds to become a scientists. Coal is the heart of WV, and especially during those years it was so crucial for it's existence. This determined young man was daring to be different, and to do something no one knew anything about took an extreme amount courage. When something is different, human instinct tells us to pull away from it. The question was "how will a rocket scientist help us mine coal, or make it better?" When there was not an answer that made sense, it was considered "useless." We were taught that hard work and a decent living was all we needed to make a life for ourselves and that would in turn make us a good human being. While that is still a very important "principle of life" that must be taught, it is also just as important to tell our children that their dreams can become reality with just a little more work. Because of people like "Sonny Hickam" we are no longer made fun of and have the acceptance of our peers, and cheers from our parents, co-workers and society. And the most important message of all, the movie shows the rest of the world that West Virginian's will no longer to be looked down upon, or thought of as "poor, uneducated hillbillies". For that we must thank Sonny Hickam who had the courage to tell "our story." Because he dared to be different, and dared to write about it -- we can stand on our majestical mountains higher than ever before because people will take notice and listen, for they will know we are "one in a million". Thank you Homer Hickam!!!!! 

    Rhonda Goad


October Sky
Monday, 22-Feb-1999 09:44:24
    Message:
    199.173.225.2 writes:

    My wife and I saw October Sky on Friday night - it's opening. This is the first "opening night" movie we've attended in years. The build-up it has gotten on this site had me all pumped up to see it. The only thing I can say is that you folks have understated its qualities. The only way it could have been more enjoyable would have been to film it at home. When the movie ended, I wanted to stand and ask how many people from WV were in the theatre. There are a lot in the northern Delaware area. I heard comments on the way out such as "I haven't seen a movie like that in years". More people were wiping there eyes than were not. I made my mother (Carolina Agostine Morgan McPeake) promise to go see it with my step-father (Gerald McPeake). Both are WHS graduates, but I dare not give the wrong years. They would love to hear from you. Any friends or classmates can e-mail me and I will pass the messages on. 

    In the area of reminiscing, besides our band rocking the auditorium during pep rally's, how many of you guys out there ever hitched a ride at the Pure station? When I first "thumbed" a ride there, I felt I had arrived because that was a sacred place. It was a special event when you needed a ride up Stewart Street and you got to the Pure station before anyone else. That was prime hitch-hiking!! 

    Keep in touch and spread the news of this site! 

    Roy Morgan


McDOWELL COUNTY PHOTOS
Sunday, 21-Feb-1999 19:03:51
    Message:
    152.163.232.47 writes:

    FYI, our very own and very talented resident photographer, JOHN SPENCER, has a nice collection of McDowell County photos available if anyone is interested. I'm sure John would be more than happy to give you information if you contact him @ JRS58WHS. As most of you know, John has been responsible for the photos taken at most, if not all, of the various WHS reunions and has done a wonderful job for us. THANKS, John! 

    Connie Moore Jenkins


The oldest unanswered question
Sunday, 21-Feb-1999 16:38:40
    Message:
    208.236.152.223 writes:

    Ok. It's been 32 years. Who painted the gym? 

    Inquiring minds


MISSING CLASS MATES - '55
Saturday, 20-Feb-1999 11:44:25
    Message:
    12.77.203.119 writes:

    Regarding my previous message. I mistakenly put 
    Shirley Clagg as missing. I really meant to put 
    SHIRLEY CRAFT. I am happy to report Shirley Clagg was at our reunion this past September and 
    she is not among the missing. Sorry about the 
    mistake. If you know of someone who might know 
    where these missing classmates are, please let me 
    know and I will follow through. Thanks, Judy 

    Judith Hulme Beuchert


I know how to spell - I just can't type!
Friday, 19-Feb-1999 21:49:42
    Message:
    198.64.222.111 writes:

    I really did mean cruising and cruisin' no cursing! 
    Hey, maybe we can get a "preview before we send" page so we can correct out goofs! (ha) 

    16 years of schooling and still can't spell! Oh, well, life is full of it and I ain't perfect - yet... 

    Rhea Romans Worsham


Would Love to Hear From Classmates and Friends
Friday, 19-Feb-1999 21:45:57
    Message:
    198.64.222.111 writes:

    This is really a great page! Hello to all of you. I want to give you my sister's (Jackie Romans) address. She does not surf the web but writes a mean hand. Jackie's husband has MS and she is not well herself. [Jackie & Bob Gallagher, 
    1758 Foxglove Court, Minden, NV 89423 Phone: 702-782-4509] I know Jackie would love to hear from DonJuan and all you other classmates. Thank you Brenda McCormick(Dunn) for sending this web site address to me - I was actually in NY City visiting my daughter and wanted to stop and see all of you but had to hurry back to good old Houston so I could teach a TABC class. YUK!! I was so upset because I had planned to spend a couple of weeks just crusing - I bought a new Ford Explorer XLT V8 just so i could take my time and have lots of traveling room and I ended up driving that damn M30 Infiniti and was squashed like a sardine the whole time! Maybe next summer I can come crusiin' again and say howdy to all you great people back in Welch! 
    I thought October Sky also included Sherman Siers who was also from Coalwood and Hickman's buddy? 
    If you people get too cold - it was 75 here today. Of course there is a lot of BS you have to wade through when you live in Texas - WV is truly God's Country. I cried as I drove through - just to see those majestic mountains was breath taking. I think I'm homesick! Love to all of you and lets all work together to keep this web page going - its like a little bit of home on a cold, winter day. 

    Rhea Romans Worsham


Arrrival of Third Grandchild
Friday, 19-Feb-1999 20:06:31
    Message:
    209.100.21.131 writes:

    Today, February l8, l999, I am celebrating the arrival of my third grandchild, Catherine Alexandra Miano (Alex) born to my son Anthony and his lovely wife Heather. If anyone is in and around Radford, Va. stop in and help us celebrate. Thanks. Tony 

    Tony Miano


Senior Sigs--Melodiers
Friday, 19-Feb-1999 16:07:37
    Message:
    205.188.193.48 writes:

    I was initiated in 1969 to the Sigs and I 
    participated in the second generation of the Melodiers. 
    My sister, Rhonda was one of the originals. 

    Susan Simmons


Senir Sigs, Keyettes and Melodiers
Friday, 19-Feb-1999 10:18:26
    Message:
    205.188.197.39 writes:

    Anyone belonging to these organizations please respond. We are looking for other lost members 
    Ginnie Ann Adams where are you? 
    Babs Dudley 
    Sharon Switch 
    And any second generation members Please come forward 
    Susan Simmons 
    Rhonda Simmons 
    Robin Harman 
    Joanne Johnston.


MISSING CLASSMATES - CLASS OF '55
Thursday, 18-Feb-1999 11:46:04
    Message:
    12.77.128.107 writes:

    Sherwood Bailey 
    Nancy Arlene Baker 
    Irvin Belcher 
    Edna Bowling 
    Betty Brown 
    Geraldine Brown 
    Jean Christian 
    Shirley Clagg 
    Eddie Cinti 
    Beverly Colvard 
    Polly Cooper 
    Bill Crabtree 
    Shirley Craft 
    Peggy Gentry 
    Blanche Hendricks 
    Edna Howard 
    Margaret Hutchison 
    Pat Jones 
    Allen Janney 
    Billy Lambert 
    Edith Ledford 
    Audrey Livingston 
    Gracie McKinzie 
    Mary Marshall 
    Faye McPeak Michael 
    Frankie Moore 
    Christa Mullins 
    Ruby Fagan Musick 
    Margaret Osborne 
    Phyllis Roberts 
    Geserina Savoca 
    Eugene Shanon 
    Charles Snow 
    Lucion Sparks 
    J. D. Stallard 
    Carol Stringer 
    Shirley Taylor 
    Junior Waldron 
    Anita Wooten 
    Barbara Widner 
    Janette Wingate 
    Gerry McGovern Blackford 
    Dorcas Day Euback 
    Rhonda Tolliver Eanes 
    Sharon Daugherty Gillewater 
    Maria Lusk Holksema 
    Betty Marine Kleis 
    Wallacy Luther 
    Barbara Quesenberry 
    Shirley Allen Ridgdon 

    Judith Hulme Beuchert


WHS Class of 1952
Thursday, 18-Feb-1999 09:16:14
    Message:
    209.96.179.15 writes:

    Although we have current addresses for about 80% of the members of our class, we're still missing 20 to 25 addresses. If you are a member of the Class of '52 and are not receiving our newsletter, please e-mail me, or write to 232 Robanna Dr., Seaford, VA 23696. Our class has had three reunions (in '84, '92, and '97) and will have another in the summer of 2000. 

    Barry Shrout


Letterman Appearance
Wednesday, 17-Feb-1999 20:57:08
    Message:
    216.180.14.235 writes:

    Several folks from WHS have written asking when my Letterman appearance will be. As of this moment, it's scheduled for Feb. 25. Jake Gyllenhaal, the young man who plays me in October Sky, is scheduled for Letterman on Feb. 18. Jake was a little under the weather yesterday after the southern premiere in Knoxville so I hope he gets on ok. He's a great actor and I hope everybody will tune in and cheer him on. I told him yesterday that he is, whether he knows it or not, now a West Virginian and, more importantly, a McDowell Countian. He is a great representative of our state (even though he's never been there). Of course, any schedule for any tv show is subject to change. I'm also supposed to be on the Crier Report (Fox) on Feb. 26. I don't know if that will hold or not. We'll see. I certainly appreciate the interest and the good wishes from all on the Maroon Wave side of my "family." 

    Homer Hickam


Don Copley
Tuesday, 16-Feb-1999 18:45:30
    Message:
    204.116.76.143 writes:

    Hello Don, 
    I was a friend of your mother. Would you let me know if she is still living and how she and your family are? I look forward to hearing from you. 

    Laura Gullett


Class of '55 launched into cyberspace!
Tuesday, 16-Feb-1999 12:02:19
    Message:
    206.175.203.201 writes:

    Thanks to Bill Tolley's response to Larry Hylton's bulletin board request (see below), the WHS class of 1955 senior pictures are now posted at: http://whs.freeservers.com/55seniors.htm 

    Donnie Skuja


Welch and October Sky
Monday, 15-Feb-1999 18:04:04
    Message:
    205.188.200.21 writes:

    I saw a sneak preview of October Sky and am about halfway through the book, Rocket Boys. Both are great. For those who were raised in coal camps and/or went to Welch High, the book and movie will bring back very fond memories. We led a wonderful life as kids growing up, and we are indebted to Homer Hicham for bringing it back to life in such a wonderful story. In the story, I must have been one of those notorious Welch boys, knowing the Coalwood Dantzler girls, Eleanor and Ginger, well and taking Ginger to the Welch senior prom. 

    Jerry Smith, WHS class of 60 

    Jerry Smith


"October Sky"
Monday, 15-Feb-1999 15:49:50
    Message:
    205.188.198.158 writes:

    2/15/99 Went to see "October Sky" as a "Sneak Preview" last night. What a great movie and tribute to Sonny Hickham, Coalwood, Big Creek H.S. and McDowell County! Being one of those "other kids from Welch", and seeing Homer ("Sonny") leave on that old Greyhound bus, I was immediately reminded of an encounter I had several years ago (while living/working in Boston, MA) with a VPI grad who was in his Doctoral studies at MIT. I told this guy I was born and raised in southern West Virginia. He then said, "You know, I've only seen three good things come out of West Virginia...1) Jerry West 2) Sam Huff, and 3) an EMPTY Greyhound bus!" I only wish I could run into that same guy again. I'd be quick to let him know that there are now at least 5 good things (knowing there are countless others) from WVA...not only the ones he mentioned, but also "October Sky" and this Webpage for Welch High Alumni! 

    Bob Greene


Lost Friend
Monday, 15-Feb-1999 10:03:02
    Message:
    198.185.190.101 writes:

    Does anyone know where Linda Hurt (class of 65) is? We were best friends in school and I would like to get in contact with her. 

    Karol Radochio


Would like to hear
Sunday, 14-Feb-1999 21:27:05
    Message:
    208.252.239.76 writes:

    I did'nt graduate from dear ole Welch High. I still have some fond memories. It has been along time ago. However, I would like to hear from anyone who remembers. Thanks for the Web Page. 

    Otto "Happy" Keesling


Class of 1942
Sunday, 14-Feb-1999 18:53:17
    Message:
    205.188.197.152 writes:

    Any members who plan to attend the '40's reunion this summer, I would appreciate a note from you. I live in Cross Lanes, exit 47 on Interstate 64. If you are in town, please call me, I am the only De Felice in the phone directory. 

    Take care and God Bless! 

    Gladys J. Epperly De Felice


finding friends
Wednesday, 10-Feb-1999 07:02:44
    Message:
    208.159.223.200 writes:

    Hi, I would love to find Brenda Hatfield,Karen Goode,or anyone that remembers me from grade school at Big Sandy. I have lots of friends that I would love to find but Can not remember last names. I left west virginia and never saw them again when I was around 12 years old .If any one knows me please get back to me 

    Shirley Bartley Hackney


e-mail address
Monday, 08-Feb-1999 12:46:15
    Message:
    198.185.190.101 writes:

    Francine Kirby - It was good hearing from you. What is your e-mail address? When I tried to send a message back to you it didn't work. 

    Karol Radochio


Help me find an e-mail address
Monday, 08-Feb-1999 08:14:26
    Message:
    209.96.216.84 writes:

    if anyone has the e-mail address for Diane Spresser, class of 61, please let me know. I spoke with her at Christmas and she gave me her address but I must have copied it down wrong cause it didn't work. And hello out there to all of your ex Maroon Waves 

    Reg Fallin, class of 61


class of '63
Monday, 08-Feb-1999 04:11:28
    Message:
    209.86.161.67 writes:

    I am alive and nearly well and living in Hillsborough, NC (anybody remember Dave Bartley? He lets me live in his attic) Anyway, I just discovered this site and thought I'd plug in a line or two to see what might happen. I'll check in again soon. And a big HIYA to anyone who might remember me. 

    chuck topping


Hello Welch High Alumni 
Sunday, 07-Feb-1999 16:55:59
    Message:
    152.163.206.204 writes:

    IT IS GREAT TO HEAR THAT WELCH HIGH SCHOOL IS ON 
    THE INTERNET. I GRADUATED IN 1963 FROM WELCH HIGH SCHOOL. I LIVE IN DUBLIN VIRGINIA AND I'M 
    MARRIED TO WAYNE MCGLOTHLIN FROM PULASKI CO AND 
    I WORK AT FIRST CITIZENS BANK IN DUBLIN AS THE 
    MANAGER AND MY HUSBAND IS THE BROKER/OWNER OF 
    CENTURY 21 HOME TOWN REALTY IN PULASKI VA. I HAVE ONE DAUGHTER, ANDERIA KAPALIN. I WOULD BE 
    VERY INTERESTED IN HEARING FROM OTHER '63 GRADU- 
    ATES AND OTHERS THAT REMEMBER ME. MY SISTER ALICE BEEMAN BAKER LIVES IN GALAX VA AND VELMA 
    BEEMAN HONOSKY MY OTHER SISTER LIVES IN MYRTLE BEACH SC. ALICE WAS IN THE CLASS OF '59 AND VELMA WAS IN THE CLASS OF '61. 
     

    Nancy Beeman McGlothlin


Rocket Boys
Friday, 05-Feb-1999 14:45:16
    Message:
    129.59.205.216 writes:

    I was fortunate enough to get see "October Sky" last night at a sneak preview here in Nashville, where I am in graduate school studying astronomy. I am only twenty-five and no I didn't graduate from Welch High, it was the junior high when I was passing through. My parents Steve('65) and Rosemary('63) are graduates and that is how I found out about this homepage. Anyway, about the movie, I doubt that many of the people who viewed the movie here in Nashville felt as connected to the story and its people as I did, (I may be a little bias in my opinion of the movie) but I felt that it was incredible and judging by the applause at the end of the movie everyone else in the theater seemed to agree!!! I would say that there is a little Homer Hickam in everyone from McDowell County. A desire to bust loose and see the "outside world" is something most of us share. I believe that the movie is a "must see" for anyone from back home and anyone who has ever chased a dream. I figure that makes it a "must see" for everyone in the world! Though the terrain in the movie is pretty authentic, I still wish they had shot some of it in Coalwood and War. I guess the film crew didn't want to stay at the Count Gilu!!! My final comment is about the way Welch was referred to throughout the movie. It was always those darn people from Welch, truly depicting the "friendly"rivalry that existed (and still does) between the schools. It kept me smiling through the whole movie. 

    Jeff Bary


1938 WHS Graduate
Thursday, 04-Feb-1999 17:40:35
    Message:
    166.102.101.24 writes:

    I am a 1938 graduate of Welch High School and would like to hear from anyone that was in (or near) my class. 

    My mailing address is: 

    John Bero 
    402 Houston Ave. N.W. 
    Live Oak, FL 32060-1628 

    John J. Bero


Betty L. Blankenship
Wednesday, 03-Feb-1999 21:54:57
    Message:
    152.163.195.194 writes:

    She graduated in 54' does anyone remember her? She lives in a Nursing home her in Virginia,would love to her from anyone that graduated with her or old boy friends. 

    Nita her Daughter


(No subject)
Tuesday, 02-Feb-1999 21:02:44
    Message:
    207.87.193.178 writes:

    Class of '62. Sister Sharon of '63. Live in Newton, NC. 

    John Heenan Wilson 


l969 reunion
Saturday, 30-Jan-1999 11:01:43
    Message:
    208.245.128.179 writes:

    Reunion of 1969 will be weekend of Aug. 13 and 14th. Start making your plans now. We need addresses. Letters will be out mid-Feb. 
    Thanks! 

    Mary, Connie, Richard, and Arba 

    Mary F. Clark


Rocket Boys / October Sky
Thursday, 28-Jan-1999 23:26:17
    Message:
    208.147.147.181 writes:

    I received today a very nice note from Donnie Skuja, letting me know about this board. It is very well done, or course, since it is for and by graduates of Welch High School. I appreciate the nice things Donnie has been saying about my book Rocket Boys and the movie October Sky. I was a Big Creek student but had friends who lived in Welch and attended Welch High. You were the very best and I always admired your school. Go Maroon Wave! 

    Homer Hickam


1969 Class reunion
Thursday, 28-Jan-1999 22:13:28
    Message:
    207.173.228.211 writes:

    Plans have begun. Now we need addresses of our classmates. Please help us. 
    Connie Ellis Williams 
    1010 Stewart St 
    Welch, WV 24801 
    Phone-304-436-6656 

    Mary Spano Clark 
    1426 Stewart St. 
    Welch, WV 24801 
    Phone-304-436-2569 
    Spread the word and get these addresses to us 
    As plans are made we will post 
     

    Connie Ellis Williams


More on Rocket Boys/October Sky February 6
Thursday, 28-Jan-1999 17:02:08
    Message:
    206.175.183.51 writes:

    The web site Bonnie Boyd Tabor so kindly referred us to now includes comments from some people who have already seen the movie which are very encouraging. There is also a search listing the theaters in different States where the premier showing of October Sky will be on February 6. Unfortunately the only West Virginia theater listed is the Cinema 4 in Huntington. It appears the closest theater to McDowell County (listed as premiering the movie) is Tinseltown in Bristol, VA. 

    Donnie Skuja



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