James G. Long

John Kroll Gary '62

Candis and Raymond Thornton

Rhonda Goad

Libby Copley Lai

jww47@yahoo.com 

John Wilson

clove@ezwv.com

Rhea

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

Mike 

orthodox@gso.infi.net 

Mike Zuchick

Candy Robinette

Candy

D Skuja

clove@ezwv.com

William (Bill) Booth, Jr

mdalton@citlink.net

Happy Keesling

http://pager.yahoo.com/ 

Enjoy, y'all.... 
Rog. 

Roger England (class of 63)

ROGER ENGLAND (CLASS OF 63)

Bob Wilson

Beuna (Spinella) Parziale

Dick Douglas

Ray Bailey

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

whs@postmark.net

w 
 
 

David L. Walker

Donnie Skuja

Pat "Fulk"Staley

WHS Alumni Web Site Administrator

bparz1113@aol.com

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

Jim McCoy

Web Site Administrator

Still looking for you all on the IRC.. 

Michael Zuchick 
orthodox@gso.infi.net 

Mike Zuchick

Betty Chaos Rice

Mary Faulds

Maxine Lester Stone

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

stanley Hughes

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

Mike 

Mike Zuchick

Bill Tolley

Donnie Skuja

Kelly Bowles

Read about and order the book online 
HERE. 
 

DSkuja

Rhonda Lane Goad

"Sandy" Bright

stanley hughes

Elinor T. Bright

Angie Byrd Isherwood

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

D. Skuja

Raffle tickets now available in Welch & Bluefield

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

Dick St. Clair

Richard Ramella

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

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

Don Juan Skuja

Pat Bright Bailey Steele

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

Ray Kiser '69

Who do we report this to? Does anyone know? 

Renee (Smith) Allen

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

Tom Callaway

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)

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

JANE DAMRON

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 

Kay Marie Comuntzis-Getsinger

Oda Stout

Mary Faulds

for all the civtims.

Ann Tucker-Rosch

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

Allen Welch

please email me with any information. 

renee smith 

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

where is cookie byrd

LaDonna Smith, Class of 1974 

LaDonna Smith

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

Samuel Franklin Reeves (Frank)

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

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

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

Don Juan (Collins) Skuja

Louise Fletcher Crouse

John Hurt

Christopher Tyrone Bolden

Jerry Hopson

Anita Hoskey Jones Knox

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)

Robert Nowlin Sr,

Mary Clark Blevins Cassidy

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

Don Juan Skuja

Shirl (joy) S. Johnson-Turpin

TONY COLOSI

Linda Hurt (Osvalds), class of 65 

Linda Hurt Osvalds

Martha Manning

"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

Richard (Dick) St. Clair - Class 1944

Carolyn RHUDY Bullion

Carolyn RHUDY Bullion

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

Ann Tucker-Rosch

Bridget McCoy (class of '66)

Ed Paynter

George Liontakis

Donnie Skuja

JOHN E. STAFFORD

Mary Faulds

Allen Welch

118 Woodlawn Drive 
Laurens, SC 29360 

Ramona Rutledge-Shook

60's Reunion Committee

Joy - An outsider looking in!

denise

Gene Honaker

Shirl (joy) S. Johnson-Turpin

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

Don Juan Skuja

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

Pat Friel Johnson

clove@ezwv.net

Shirl (Joy) S.Johnson-Turpin

Don Juan (Collins) Skuja

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

Myrna A. Young

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

martha@ezwv.com

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

Jerald Johnston

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Judith (Hulme) Beuchert

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

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

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

Pam JenkinsWyatt

Would like to hear from some of my old friends. 

Earl Patrick Jr.

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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! 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 
 

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

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" 
 

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.

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

where are they now

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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..

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sandy Bright

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

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

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

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

Inquiring minds

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 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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Heenan Wilson 

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

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

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

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