Atkins, Bill - jatkins1@suddenlink.net

   Carlson, Pat Dean - Iamsidewc@aol.com

   Cummings, Mel - homeriii@aol.com

   Feener, Pat Barger - pfeener7@zoominternet.net

   Ferguson, Larry - twofergs@zoominternet.net

   Gilstrap, Sally Clay - sally.gilstrap@yahoo.com

   Majher, Judith Benson - judithlefty36@comcast.net

   Raines, Jim - jimraines@verizon.net

   Silver, Barbara Banville - bbs204@gmail.com

   Sullivan, Barbara Mullins - mphotogcrppacert@aol.com

   Walker, Tom - t.walker1624@comcast.net

   Weaver, Bill - wadok1942@gmail.com

   Wilmer, Jim - jwilm@yahoo.com

   Wilmink, Peggy Simmons - peggywilmink@yahoo.com

Missing Classmate - Barbara Banville Silver

   I was able to talk to Barbara Banville Silver recently at her home in Huron, OH.  Barbara joined Classmates and revealed her married name.  Judy Browning Clark passed the information to me and, with the aid of a few people search sights; I was able to locate her.

   We had a wonderful conversation, after Barbara recovered from the shock of hearing from me after 49+ years.  She has lived in Huron, OH, on Lake Erie, for over 40 years.  She managed the Sawmill Creek Resort for many of those years, retiring 1-1/2 years ago.  She and her husband Jim have been married 38 years.  Barbara has 3 children and 2 grandchildren.  She likes boating, home decorating, and knitting.

   Barbara remembered several people from our class but it was difficult with my surprise call.  She mentioned Linda Frankel and the new Radar Range that the Frankels had that could heat up a sandwich in seconds.  She also mentioned Davis Biggs, who was a terrific Prom date.  Barbara was active in several high school clubs but she especially liked the Safe Teens that never met but provided a great weekly exit from her house.

   Barbara has e-mail but is not a real active user.  But, I am sure that she will be really happy to hear from her HHS 1960 classmates.  Her e-mail address is bbs204@gmail.com.

Missing Classmate - James Oiler

   Jim Oiler lives in Huntington with his wife Diana.  He recently signed up on Facebook and I was able to contact him and remove another name from our missing list.  Jim and Diana have been married 35 years and have 2 daughters and 10 grandchildren. 

   They met in Bedford, Ohio where they both worked for Nymold Plastic.  Jim was a supervisor for 17 years before having to retire due to disability.  He suffered several mini-strokes which caused him to loose most of his sight and later, additional strokes have limited his speech.  Jim's disability has limited him to watching TV and doing crossword puzzles.  He has now stopped using the computer since it has become very hard to read.

   I have Jim's address if any of you would like to send him a card or letter.  See Jim’s photo at Classmate Photos.

Missing Classmate - Donna Neekamp Bryant

   I found another missing classmate recently.  Donna Neekamp Bryant, and her husband George, live in Glendale, Arizona.  Next month, they will celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary.  Their 4 children are treating them to a Caribbean cruise to celebrate the big event.  They have 10 grandchildren.  George is now retired but Donna still works part time at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Phoenix.  She works in the banquet department which gets busy during the winter tourist season.

   Donna told me that she only went to HHS in her senior year.  She lived in Chesapeake, OH and went to school there since the 7th grade.  But, she met handsome George, who was working as a lineman for the Chesapeake and Potomac Bell Telephone Company in Huntington.  They fell in love and married on August 29, 1959.  Chesapeake High School would not allow her to come back for her senior year because she was married.  But, HHS did not have that rule and she came across the river to be with our class. 

   Donna said that she didn't remember too many people from school, including me, (It was a surprise phone call of course.) but she would look for her yearbook.  She is very interested in learning about everyone and will keep in touch.  She doesn't have e-mail yet but her daughter is planning on getting her connected.  She does have an unlimited phone plan and would like to talk to her old friends.  Please contact me for her phone number.

Missing Classmate - Tom Lyon

   My classmate search has yielded another missing classmate - Tom Lyon.  I talked to Tom several times this week at his home in Patriot, Ohio.  Here is Tom's story.

   Tom attended HHS during his sophomore and half of his junior years.  He went to East High during the remainder of his junior year and then quit and went into the Navy.  He said that he wasn't doing well and decided to see the world.  He was in the Navy for 4 years, where he completed his high school education by obtaining a GED.  After the Navy, Tom returned and applied at Ohio State.  He graduated with a degree in Medical Technology.  He spent his career at Children’s Hospital in Columbus, OH.

   Tom has one daughter and is now divorced.  He is now managing his family farm in Patriot, OH where he raises Angus cattle on 800 acres.  He also continues to work 2 days a week at the hospital in Columbus.  He gets to Huntington occasionally to manage property that he owns there.

   Unfortunately, Tom does not have e-mail.  He said that he hopes that he can come to our next class reunion. 

Missing Classmate - Pat Barger Feener

   Pat Barger Feener is another of our classmates to join Facebook and make the connection with her friends from HHS.  Pat lives in South Point, Ohio and has been there for several years.  She has had a few contacts with friends from our class but has been missing from the group list for several years.  Pat tells me:

   "I left Huntington shortly following graduation for Miami, FL.  My mother and step-father had gone a mo. or so prior to graduation to secure housing arrangements; returning for graduation. Then, as a family we headed down to Miami.  I married, in 1962, to Harold Jarvis.  We had one child, a daughter, Heather and, remained married until 1972."

   "In 1972, she and I left FL and returned to the Tri-State, where I worked for 1st Huntington Nat'l. Bank, as an assistant to the Auditor.  I remained with the bank; went to Marshall where I attained a 2-yr. Business Degree.  I was with the bank until Sept. 1976, at which time, I moved to Providence, R.I. where my sister and bro-in-law resided. During my three years there, continued in the banking field.  In Aug. 1979, I had sold my house in R.I. and, as my daughter wanted to be closer to her dad, we moved to Orlando, FL."

   "In 1992, I moved back to the Tri-State area as my mother and step-dad were both ill.  I arrived here having been hired, on the strength of my resume, by Our Lady of Bellefonte Hosp. sight unseen.  My dad died in Mar. 1996 and my mother in Nov. 1996. That was the worst year of my life.  After their deaths, I remained here and retired from the hospital, in 2002.  I married a 2nd time in 1995 to David Feener and, divorced in 2005; for the 2nd time, didn't exceed 10 yrs. I think I'll quit."

   "My daughter continues to reside in Fl. I have three grandsons; 20, 15, and 12."

   "Being divorced, there was not a lot of time for a dedicated hobby but, while in FL, did take up golf (lived on a course in Orlando).  I really enjoyed that a lot.  Still have my bags and a set of Lady MacGregor clubs but have only managed to get to a driving range.  I love the outdoors and spend a lot of time hiking in the woods, extracting interesting rocks from stream beds and, in general just enjoying the scenery."

   Please welcome Pat by sending her an e-mail the following address - pfeener7@zoominternet.net.

Missing Classmate - Pat Dean Carlson

   Another missing classmate to surface on Facebook is Pat Dean Carlson.  Pat was with our class through her sophomore year.  After that year, she went to work and then married for the first time at age 18.  After two divorces, Pat met Fred Carlson and settled down in Jackson, Ohio.  They have been married 18 years.  Pat has 4 children from her previous marriages. 

   They both love Jackson, Ohio and are very active in the community.  They work out 6 days a week at the YMCA and enjoy friends that the have met there and at their church.  Pat makes towels for Relay for Life and her group donated $15,000 the last 2 years to this organization.

   Pat will join us in the Cyberponies.  Please welcome her to the group.  Pat's e-mail address is Iamsidewc@aol.com.

Classmate - Donald Richard Simpkins.

   I am sorry to inform you of the passing of our classmate Donald Simpkins on Sunday, August 16, 2009 in Kenova, WV.  Donald's obituary from the Herald-Dispatch is shown below. 

   DONALD RICHARD SIMPKINS, 68, of Kenova, W.Va., passed away Sunday, August 16, 2009, at Cabell Huntington Hospital. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at Morris Funeral Home Chapel by Pastor Bob Withers and Pastor Fred Ferguson, with burial following at the Patrick Cemetery, Wayne. Born July 1, 1941, he was a son of the late Hearon Harold Simpkins and Dorene Ferguson Simpkins of Huntington. Donald was a retired safety coordinator for the Calgon Corporation, a member of the Huntington Masonic Lodge #53, AF&AM, whose members will serve as pallbearers and conduct last rites; a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Chapter 8; a member of the York Rite Bodies, K.T.; a 32nd degree KCCH member of the Scottish Rite Bodies, Southern Jurisdiction, Valley of Huntington; a proud Air Force veteran of the Vietnam era; a member of the American Legion Post #93, Kenova; and a member, past Deacon, and trustee of the Seventh Avenue Baptist Church, Huntington. Survivors include his wife, Karen Lee Ferguson Simpkins; one daughter, Rebecca Simpkins of Huntington; one son, Terry Daniel Simpkins and wife Andrea of Huntington; one sister, Marilyn Ardisson and husband Richard of Radcliff, Ky.; one brother, David Simpkins and wife Barbara of Raceland, Ky.; three grandchildren, Nicole Simpkins of St. Albans, W.Va., Michele Simpkins and Jon Simpkins of Ashland, Ky. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Morris Funeral Home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the choir fund at the Seventh Ave Baptist Church, 240 seventh Ave, Huntington, WV 25701.  See Donald’s photo at Classmate Photos.

Classmate - Lucian Stiltner

   I am sorry to inform you of the passing of our classmate Lucian Stiltner on July 29, 2009 in Salt Rock, WV.  Lucian was also a member of the HHS Class of 1959.  His obituary from the Herald-Dispatch is below.

   GEORGE LUCIAN STILTNER, 69, of Salt Rock, W.Va., passed away Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at St. Mary's Medical Center. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on August 1, 2009, and funeral services will be conducted at noon Sunday, August 2, 2009, at the Wallace Funeral Home & Chapel, Barboursville, W.Va., by Rev. Cliff Larson. Burial will be in Community Memorial Garden, Wayne, W.Va. He was born December 12, 1939, in Logan, W.Va., a son of the late Hawk and Ruth Dyer Stiltner. He is survived by his devoted wife, Shirley Keyser Stiltner; three loving daughters and sons-in-law, Susan and Jason Weaver of Crown City, Ohio, Sara and Tracy Malcolm of Panama City, Fla., and Stephanie and Mark Midkiff of Salt Rock; 10 wonderful grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Julia Gwinn, Laura Gwinn and Aaron Gwinn, Ellen Weaver, Kassi Malcolm, Nicholas Lucian Malcolm, Austin Malcolm, Mason Midkiff and Ethan Midkiff; lifelong friend Clyde and his wife Gaye; and special buddy, Gizmo. He had many nieces, nephews, close friends and co-workers, too many to name. George was the best friend you could ever have. He always had time to help fix any problems or situations, whether it be babysitting the elderly, pulling you out of a ditch or running his personal taxi for "friends in need." Yes, he will be missed in our community. He was a soft-spoken, gentle and kind person. He loved his family with all his being and was the BEST DAD, HUSBAND, GRANDPA and friend anyone could ask for! He loved old movies, especially John Wayne westerns. He enjoyed NASCAR racing and welcomed you into his home - anytime! George was a member of Roach Baptist Church and served as Trustee for several years. He was a special friend to so many. He worked at Owens-Illinois Glass Plant for 27 years and retired in 1994. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Leslie Caroline Weaver and his brother Glen. He has one surviving brother, John. Flowers will be welcome, or donations may be made to one's favorite charity. We send a special thank you to Dr. Shawn Coffman and Dr. Kimmey for their wonderful care. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.  See Lucian’s photo at Classmate Photos.

Classmate - Ted Booth

   I am sorry to inform you of the passing of our classmate Ted Booth in Lewisburg, WV this week.  His obituary from the Herald-Dispatch is below. 

   THEODORE JOSEPH BOOTH, 67, passed away at home in Lewisburg, W.Va., on Saturday, July 25, 2009, from complications related to pancreatic cancer. He was the son of the late Larry Howard and Maxine booth. Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Irmgard M.H. Booth; son Christopher David Booth and wife Evelyn of McLean, Va.; son Alexander Martin Booth and fiancée Aurora Occhiato of Rome, Italy; and sister Elizabeth "Betsy" and husband John Weiler of Huntington, W.Va. From 1990 to 2002, Theodore Booth was an investigator for the Surveys and Investigations Staff, House Appropriations Committee, U.S. Congress. From 1969 through 1995, he served with the Federal Bureau of Investigation as an investigator in New Orleans and Baltimore; supervising special agent at FBIHQ and the Washington Field Office; FBIHQ Unit Chief of Counterintelligence and the Soviet Analytical unit; and Legal Attaché in Bonn, Germany. Theodore Booth graduated with honors from Marshall University. He went on to earn a Master's degree and certificate of advanced study from Johns Hopkins University, and was also a graduate of the National War College. After graduating from Marshall University, he entered the U.S. Army as an infantry officer. He commanded a Special Forces "A" Team and Mechanized Infantry and Armor companies in Germany; and an Airborne Infantry company during the Vietnam War. His military honors include two Bronze Stars with combat "V" device, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, The Vietnamese Gallantry Cross, the Combat infantryman’s Badge, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Ranger Tab, Special Forces qualification, the parachutist Badge and the Vietnamese Parachutist Badge (honorary). A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, August 1, 2009, at St. James Episcopal Church, Lewisburg. In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions be made in his name, Theodore Joseph Booth, to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, or PANCAN, at 2141 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 7,000, El Segundo, CA 90245 or online at www.pancan.org. Wallace and Wallace Funeral Home, Lewisburg, is in charge of arrangements. www.wallaceandwallacefh.com.  See Classmate Photos for Ted’s photo.

Remembering Others Who Have Left Us.

   Please join with me to remember our friends and family who passed away recently.

   Mr. William G. Proffitt, 68, St. Petersburg, FL.  Bill was a close friend of the HHS Class of 1959.  He passed away

   May 4, 2009.

   Mr. Robert W. Simmons, 92, Huntington, WV.  Peggy Simmons Wilmink’s father passed away August 10, 2009.

   Mrs. Theda Melba Collins, 93, Huntington, WV.  Regina Collins’ mother passed away August 12, 2009.

   Mr. Clyde W. Sullivan, 68, Huntington, WV.  Barbara Mullins Sullivan’s husband passed away August 21, 2009.

   Mrs. Jane Hethcock Miller, 79, Kannapolis, NC.  Debbie Ketchum’s mother passed away August 22, 2009.

   Mrs. Dixie Lee Hazlett, 96, Huntington, WV.  Carolyn Hazlett Flannery’s mother passed away September 23, 2009.

   Mr. Gordon Millard, 91, Jacksonville, FL.  Linda Millard Mabe’s father passed away September 24, 2009.

   Mrs. Ruth W. Childers, 97, of Huntington, WV.  Verl Childers’ mother passed away October 6, 2009.

Bob Pemberton Update

   I talked to Bob Pemberton recently and he is doing really well.  In January, he was in the hospital and very sick.  The doctors thought it was acute pancreatitis.  The good news is that it was a gall bladder problem.  They operated and removed his gall bladder.  Since then, Bob has gone on a diet and lost 55 pounds and is in great shape.   He is very busy as California State Marshall for the Knights of Columbus.  He travels a lot in this capacity to chapters all over California.  Bob and Benilda have purchased an RV and are planning some more long trips in it.  Before he got sick, they did a 3-month trip covering 28 states.  It is great to hear that Bob is doing well.

Sandra Enjoys Her Job

   Sandra Boyer Peppers told me that she enjoys her job as Bailiff for the Henry County, Georgia Court.  She primarily handles security for incoming personnel and has been doing this for 8 years (3 in Henry County).

Roger Retires

   Roger Ray is closing down his organ repair business and will be completely retired soon.  Congratulations to Roger and Sharon on their retirement.

Jim Raines' Retirement

   Jim Raines tells me that he retired as Manager of the Huntingtonized Federal Credit Union last September.  But, once again, he decided to take a part-time job working for a local industrial supply company 3 days a week.  He says that he needs to keep active and he gets 4 days off each week.  He and his wife Carolyn live in South Point, OH with property on the Ohio River.  When I talked to Jim, he was relaxing watching the barges go up and down the river.  Now, that's Liv'in!

Judy hosts the HHS LUNCH BUNCH BONFIRE. 

   Judy Sheers Swann will host a bonfire at her home in Proctorville for those of you who live in the Huntington area and those who may be visiting.  This event has always been a lot of fun.  The date is SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2009 6:00 PM.

Louis and Rita Move to Huntington 

   I recently caught up with Louis Ashworth in Huntington.  He and his wife Rita moved back to Huntington about one year ago.  Previously, they lived in Upper Sandusky, Ohio where Louis was the minister of the Heritage Baptist Church.  Before going to Upper Sandusky, they lived in Mansfield, OH where they owned and operated an IGA grocery store.  They sold the business and Louis joined the ministry several years ago.  Louis is currently Interim Pastor at First Baptist Church of South Point.  Louis and Rita (Buffalo HS '61) have been married 30 years and have 2 sons and 3 grandchildren.  They are looking for a home to buy in Huntington.  They just bought their first home computer, so some day I expect to connect to Lou on the Internet.

Bill Weaver Announces His New Book

   For many years, we have been telling Bill Weaver - "Why don't you write a book?"  Well, he did and it is now available for purchase.  It is titled Road Ends in Water.

   Here is the book's Overview:

   This is the abbreviated life story of William C. Weaver, aka Wa Dok, who was an aquatic toxicologist. One day his mother took him to the kitchen and turned on the tap water, grabbed a glass and said, “Billy, most of the people in the world cannot do what I just did. They get their water the hard way, from a river, or hand-drawn well, and many times that water is dirty, and it can make them sick or even kill them. We are so lucky to have water right out of the tap that won’t harm us or kill us.”

   Sixty years later, this is still true. Measured by our water supply, as compared to most of the world, we look pretty good. Water is the most basic need for life to exist on earth. As we use our water, and fail to clean it up, the use of dirty water to keep our bodies hydrated, and our crops growing, will surely come home to roost. This is especially true as we let our children ingest all sorts of hidden poisons, assuming, as we are likely to do, that our water is safe and clean. In The Road Ends in Water, Weaver relates the many adventures his testing experiences provided.

    Bill writes, "The book is ready. It may be ordered from iUniverse at www.iuniverse.com.  It is $17.95 for the softback, and the hardback is $27.95, and the title is Road Ends in Water. I will sign and seal any hardbound book that is bought and sent to my address with return postage included. I will also answer any questions I can. The ISBN code is 978-1-4401-6488- 0 for the softback, and 978-1-4401-6486- 6 for the hardback. Book tours are being scheduled now and I have no idea when they will have me where."  Bill.

   I have purchased my copy and found it very interesting.  If you wish to buy one, go to the web site and enter the title into the search box at the upper right, then follow the ordering process.

Larry Ferguson - Up-Date

   I talked to Larry Ferguson recently and he provided the following up-date.

   Larry and his wife Ruth (Hensley) HHS'59, live in Proctorville, OH.  They have 2 children, 5 grandchildren, and one great grandchild, living in Huntington and Columbus, OH.  Larry worked for the Army Corps of Engineers in Huntington for 35 years, retiring in 1997, at the age of 55.  He joined them as a draftsman and later became a trained cartographer (map maker).  In his work, he created topographical maps, generated from aerial photography, to aid the engineers in their various construction projects.

   After graduating from HHS, Larry joined the Army and spent 6 months on active duty (He spent 6 years in the Army Reserves).  Then, he returned to Huntington to join the Corps of Engineers and marry his high school sweetheart.  Larry and Ruth will celebrate their 48th Anniversary in November.

   You may contact Larry at his e-mail address - twofergs@zoominternet.net.

Norma McCollister Patton - Up-Date

   I recently talked to Norma McCollister Patton at her home in Jacksonville, FL.  She provided the following up-date.

   Norma attended Saint Mary's School of Nursing for one year after graduating from HHS.  Then, she married and moved away.  She and her husband had 3 children (1 boy, 2 girls).  They divorced in 1972 and Norma moved to Jacksonville, where her brother lived.  She became a medical technology assistant and continues to work in that field.  She has 3 grandchildren.    Norma remembered the sign on Mr. Nichols' door in the Chemistry Lab.  "LABORATORY.  Use the first 5 letters (Labor) instead of the last 7 (Oratory)." 

Three Amigo's

   Michael Pigman, with his wife Ginny, recently visited Huntington and got together with Lew Harper, Vernon Bell and Phyllis Sullivan Bell.  Michael writes, “As promised, I am sending you a photo of the reunion of the Three Amigo's in Huntington June 19th.  From left to right: Lew Harper, Vernon Bell and Michael Pigman. (Class of HHS 1960)  Can you tell which one lives in the paradise called Florida?  Lew, Ginny (my wife) and I were the guest of Phyllis and Vernon Bell at The Roadhouse.  It was great to be with my best friends again.  The three of us went through Oley Jr. and HHS together.  The three of us have remained the best of friends.”

   “On the 20th, Lew returned to Columbus.  Ginny and I attended a mini reunion of HEHS class 1961 where upon I was honored to sit across the table from Leo Ours also a class member of HEHS '61.  Leo was in my homeroom at East.  Leo had to leave the reunion early for his book signing at a Pullman Square book store.  It was great to visit Huntington and renew old friendships.  I am looking forward to the HHS class reunion.”  Michael

   See the photo also of the "Three Amigos" at Classmate Photos.

News from Donna Henry Hutchison

   Donna Henry Hutchison and her husband Allan (HHS'59) attended the HHS Class of 1959 50th Class Reunion in July.  Donna says that they had a great time and are both looking forward to doing it again in 2010 when we all get together for our 50th Class Reunion.  Go to Classmate Photos to see Donna's photo, taken at her birthday last year.

   Donna also told me that her daughter, Myra, is a Marshall student and the lead vocalist in the contemporary Christian band Sackcloth2joy Band.  You can see Mrya at the band's web site - http://www.facebook.com/l/;sackcloth2joyband.com.

Coach McCoy Would be Proud

   Since the last Pony News, Jim Callaway has won 6 more races.  Way to go Jim!!  Coach McCoy is smiling for sure.  Jim tells me that he was selected for the San Diego elite racing team and is trying hard not to act his age.  Recently Jim wrote, after winning an 8K cross country race,  “I won my age group by 5 minutes and now have a new record of 26 straight age group wins.  The San Diego Track Club is considering sponsoring me to the national championship in KY in December - I'll keep you posted.”  Jim Callaway.  That is really terrific Jim.

Otto Begins Chemo Treatment

   Anita Herbert Oller told us recently that her husband, Otto, has been diagnosed with Stage 3 Diffuse Large B Cell (non-hodgkins) Lymphoma.  Anita wrote to say, “My darling husband Otto has just been diagnosed with this, and even tho' the doctors at Fox Chase Cancer Center here in Philadelphia say this can be treated successfully, I need all the first hand info, help and moral support that the Ponies might be able to offer.”  Several people responded to Anita’s request and she followed up with the following message. 

   “Please thank all the ‘Ponies’ for their good wishes, prayers, moral support, and valuable information.  I tried to answer each one personally, but in the event I missed some, please know we are very grateful.  Otto starts his R-CHOP chemotherapy next week (week of September 7th).” 

   If anyone has further helpful information for Anita and Otto, you can send it to Anita at Ottooller@aol.com.

   All the best to Otto and Anita.

Donna Carey Dewey

   Donna Carey Dewey continues to reside at Heritage Center Nursing Home in Huntington.  Her condition is still very poor.  She cannot stand alone but she does have strength in her arms and hands.  Her family is looking into moving her to a facility in Virginia Beach, VA to be closer to them but Donna hasn’t agreed to this plan yet.  Donna continues to be up-beat and really enjoys visitors and phone calls.  The Heritage phone number is 304-525-7622.  Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.  See Classmate Photos for Donna’s picture with Donna Henry Hutchison taken a few months ago.

West Virginia Building is tallest in downtown Huntington skyline.

   See the following article about the West Virginia Building that gave us all a lot of personal memories to share.  http://www.heralddispatch.com/business/x1532888604/West-Virginia-Building-is-tallest-in-downtown-Huntington-skyline?FORM=ZZNR4

Memories of The West Virginia Building.

   The article about the WVa building brought back many memories to all of us.

   Bertie Anne Humphreys Rice writes, “My mother worked for Polly Polhemus who had a hat shop on the second floor.  Polly custom made hats for the ladies of Huntington who could afford them.  It was quite the thing to have a hat with her name tag sewn into the headband.  That was the day- when women wore hats and dressed up to go shopping -complete with gloves.  My mother never gave up that custom and always dressed up when she went out including dress gloves and a hat.”  Bertie Anne.

   Michael Lerner writes, I have fond memories of the WVa building.  There was the Walgreen's drug store on the first floor.  Had a big fountain counter and really good milkshakes.  Chocolate of course!  Our family doctor, Oscar Biern had his office on the seventh floor.  There was a common waiting room shared by about four docs.  I believe one of the offices was for a dentist.  Lab tech ‘Charlie’ had second office down the hall facing 4th Ave. A scary place because they used needles and drew blood and stuff like that!  Dr. Biern was a common sense, no nonsense type of doctor and there was a large leather-covered couch in the room where he had his desk.  Had a large ashtray because he used to smoke --until he decided to quit and started advising his patients to do the same. After President Ike had his heart attack, he ‘suggested’ that my dad, a Camels smoker, might consider giving up the smokes since there could be a link to disease.  That was in the 1950s!  Stoic Lenny Lerner gave up cigarettes on the spot, never smoked another one.  He did smoke a pipe a little and an occasional cigar, but he gave up tobacco, and I believe that decision contributed to his living 91 years.”

   When I was 14, Dr. Biern recommended a series of injections to help with  my, shall I say, puberty maturation issues, and I went in to his office weekly for several treatments.   The serum was thick and pretty uncomfortable and he would give me an assignment of a question, while he was administering the injection, that I was to answer during trhe following week's treatments.  One question that I remember was, 'What is the motto of the U.S. Postal Service?'  Of course, I was too caught up with television and had no idea what that was, but he'd always give me the answer.  Remember when it used to say: 'Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor dark of night shall stay this carrier from his appointed rounds', or something to that effect.  That has all changed and I believe that the new motto is 'If the weather is okay, you'll get your mail so stop bitch'.  Otherwise I might go postal - got it?  As an aside, I remember when 1st class postgage was going up from 3 cents to 4 cents.  Our next door neighbor, Julia Ziffer, drove down to the post office (9th Street and 5th Ave.) the day before the price hike and bought up a bunch of 3 cent stamps.  The drove downtown the next day to buy 1 cent stamps to go with the 3 cent stamps she just bought.  Julia was a trip.  Energetic little woman, about 4' 10" tall and she'd drive their big Chrysler sedan.  If you didn't look closely, it looked like the car was going down down the street with no driver!  But I degress.

   In the summer of 1963 just before I started dental school, I worked as a counselor at Camp Greylock in the Mass. Berkshires near Pittsfield.  I had to have a smallpox vaccination.  Dr. Oscar Biern had retired (or maybe he'd died), and his nephew Sam Biern, had his office on the 7th floor of the WVa Building in the northwest corner  of that floor--same waiting room.  He did the checkup things.  I had normal blood pressure back then--and then he did the vaccination.  He wiped off the upper arm, put out the vaccine and proceeded to punch with a needle in that circle.  Remember?  Well, he got up and left the room, and the next thing I remembered was looking up at the underside of the sink.  I had passed out!  Feeling a little woozy, I left and that, I believe was the last time I was on the seventh floor of the WVa building.  And, Dr. Sam didn't have any fun questions or anything--just a bunch of needle sticks.  And that's my trip down memory lane triggered by the article.  Michael

   Joe McVay writes, “I was invited to be on the WSAZ sports show when they were on the thirteenth floor.  I remember the floor because when my dad took me up there he pointed it out to me and said most elevators don't have a numbered thirteen because it was bad luck.  Television wasn't on but so many hours.  We didn't have a TV but Jonsey Hiner family across the street had one so the whole neighborhood stood on their porch and watch the show thru their big picture window.  I was on the show with Billy Campbell, Arnold Browning (pro at Guyan) and Mr. Foley.  I think he was a PGA official who was from Huntington.  The subject was putting, so they would give instructions to me and with my sawed off wooden shaft putter.  I would putt cotton balls.  The reason for cotton balls you may ask.  If they used real golf balls they would reflect off of the lenses of these HUGE cameras and could possibly ruin the lenses.  I saw Billy Campbell when I came home for the Keith Albee presentation and I ask him if he remembered it and he told be verbatim EVERY thing that happened during our 15 minutes of being live on the air of WSAZ TV.  I was the BIG DOG on Thirteen Ave for 3 or 4 days until Nelson Pace's sister Natalie scored 4 touchdowns (tackle) in the Fallon field that Friday after school.  One more thing.   My Grandfather who was very strict caught me standing in front of Walgreens waiting for the 9th-11th and Owens bus smoking a cigarette at the age of 12.  I was with Nelson Pace and I'm sure you all know that Nelson made me do it. 

   Fred Charles writes, “My Dad and I were on TV from the top of the WVa. Building in a talent contest around 1951 or 1952.  Odey Crabtree won and went on to star in local Country Western productions.”  Fred Charles

   Helen Belvin Vinson writes,  “I remember Odey Crabtree and my oldest sister Ann ran the elevator in the West Virginia Building and the Guaranty Bank in Huntington before she was married. She also delivered Western Union Telegrams.” 

   Richard McCoy writes, “Thanks for passing along this story. Odie is gone now.

Sorry that you lost the talent show & had to settle on being an engineer. The Union Bank once occupied the first level and a mezzanine. In my Mother's family there was a story of my Grandfather receiving a warning from a co-worker and withdrawing his savings from Union Bank, just hours before the bank closed, never to open again. Glicks Colony House at one time had on display in their window a photo of the building during the 1937 flood. The bank facade was intact. The first that I remember the building was in 1947 & the lower level was occupied by Walgreens. The facade had been changed & I can't remember a mezzanine in Walgreens. For some reason, I can remember the door in Walgreens that led into the elevator lobby. Probably because it was a sturdy glass door with a very heavy brass frame. Certainly, a hint that it was once an entrance into the bank.” Richard McCoy (HHS Class of 1958)

   Michael Lerner writes, “Yet another memory from downtown Huntington in the 1950s across the street from Walgreen's in the WVa building.  In 1957, our temple youth group was going to raise some money for the Carnegie Library (Remember the "old book smell" building on 9th St and 5th Ave) by selling peanuts downtown on a Saturday afternoon. We met that morning at the temple (10th street and 10th avenue) and packed peanuts (still in the shells) into stapled plain waxed paper bags and then loaded the bags into cardboard boxes.  We were dropped off at various downtown corners to sell our peanuts.  Remember when Saturdays were marked by large crowds of shoppers, moviegoers, etc.?  I had never sold anything in my life and didn't understand that it would be best done by approaching someone and asking: ‘Would you help us raise some money to support our local library and donate a quarter for a bag of peanuts?’  I could blame it on my naïveté' or being too shy to ask what I should do, but there I stood in front of Rogers Jewelry loudly yelling: "Get your peanuts.  Get your peanuts!"  I can still remember to this day, more than 52 years later, the looks of all the people looking at me like I was crazy or mentally challenged.  I returned to temple with a box full of waxed paper bags filled with peanuts. Fast forward to the present: Many times when I have said or done something real stupid, my wife Susan will often smile at me and say: "Get your peanuts!" like I'm acting like I know what I'm doing when I'm totally without a clue!” Michael Lerner

   Jim Handloser writes, “The West Virginia Building was one of the buildings my grandfather's architectural firm designed during the first half of the last century. Others include Cammack and B'nai Shalom Synagogue. Lynne Mayer, a past president of B'nai Shalom and one of the nicest people I've ever met, recently sent me a Herald-Dispatch article about another of my grandfather' s projects, the Coal Exchange Building. This is where my grandfather maintained his last downtown office and I spent Saturday afternoons behind a drafting table. I would've rather spent them behind the wheel of my '49 Ford, my St. Joseph's girlfriend at my side.  Jim Handloser

The Coal Exchange Building

   The following article, from the Herald-Dispatch, tells the history of the Coal Exchange Building in Huntington.  The architects who designed the building were Wilbuer J. Meanor and Edward Handloser (Jim Handloser's grandfather). Thanks to Jim for sending us this article.

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/business/x265520931/Coal-Exchange-building-looking-for-tenants-to-carry-on-local-structures-history

Dagmar (Virginia Ruth Egnor)

   Helen Belvin Vinson recalled that Dagmar had worked at Walgreens in the WVa Building and she found this history of our famous Huntington star.  She passed away in 2001 at the age of 79. 

http://www.huntingtonquarterly.com/articles/issue35/dagmar.html

Memories of Dagmar

   Please see Chuck Kinder's short story "The Girl With No Face", where he tells about his fantasy with Dagmar.  Thanks Chuck.  http://www.opencity.org/kinder.html

   Pat Ferguson recalls Dagmar, “ Just a note about Dagmar. My brother, James Howard Ferguson (a student at that other school out East), dated Dagmar when they were high school age. He will not elaborate as to the details.”  Pat Ferguson.  Thanks Pat

   Anita Herbert Oller writes, “Loved the article on Dagmar.  She worked for my father in his collection agency business, (probably the finance co referred to), and always stayed in touch.  And then her brother Danny Egnor worked for Daddy all during his college years and law school.  I remember when I first came to Philly , my parents didn't want me to drive alone from Huntington, so they paid Danny to drive me in my car (the old ‘Green Gopher’, a '55 Green Chevy, one of Daddy's old office cars).  Of course it took 10 hours or so to get here, and I heard plenty of Dagmar stories.  What a personality.  Anita.  Thanks Anita.

   Linda Frankel writes, “My father said he used to go out with Dagmar when she was a soda jerk at Walgreens. I cannot assure this as fact or fantasy, but he loved telling it (and supplied no details, lascivious or otherwise).”  Linda.  Thanks Linda

Thoughts About Smoking

   Helen Belvin Vinson writes, “My Dad, who by the way retired from Owens Illinois and also an old time preacher man, told us girls if he ever caught one of us girls smoking he would make us eat it - fire and all.  Did I listen?  NO.  At 14, I tried smoking in our bathroom.  We only had one.  We had two bedrooms on the back, so Dad wanted in the bathroom.  I didn't answer just got busy opening windows and fanning the smoke out - I thought.  Anyway I came out, sat at end of the table a minute or two with a book.  Then called Dad said bathroom was empty.  He came, stepped back in the kitchen and asked ‘who had been smoking in the bathroom?’  Well I am a fast thinker and remembered he said ‘girls’.  Yep, I blamed it on my brother Harry who was older than me about 18 at the time.  But, that was the end of my smoking career. Oh yes Harry still lives in that house but most know him as Chief or Black Eagle”  Helen Belvin Vinson

Greater Huntington Wall of Fame

   The Greater Huntington Wall of Fame inducted four new members to their Wall.  See the following article from the Herald-Dispatch in August.

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/homepage/x1562577507/Inductees-to-be-honored-at-ceremony-on-Oct-8?i=0

First Huntington National Bank Building

   See the following article about the First Huntington National Bank Building that gave us all a lot of personal memories to share.  It tells about the Saint James Condos now occupying the upper floors.

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/business/x1517866535/Longtime-Huntington-structure-is-part-of-revitalization-effort

Memories of the First Huntington National Bank Building

   Bonnie Strickling writes, “How nice to know this lovely building is being preserved. My father's law office, Fitzpatrick, Stricking, Marshall and Huddleston, was in that building. I still remember going up in the elevator, which seemed to me as a child like a jet plane! There was a little coffee shop in the lobby where my father would come for coffee sometimes, and I remember my parents' telling me that my father got my mother's engagement ring at a small jewelry shop that was in the arcade attached to that building.”  Bonnie Strickling

City enjoys historic skyline

   Here's an interesting article from the Herald-Dispatch.  http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x1517866541/City-enjoys-historic-skyline.

Southside Elementary and Huntington Middle School Construction.

   Judy Browning Clark sent us a link to an article about the current school construction project.  http://www.herald-dispatch.com/multimedia/galleries/news/x1408880702/GallerySouthsideElementary-and-Huntington-Middle-School-Construction.

Michael Remembers Cammack Junior High

   “I have a 79-year old patient who moved to Huntington as a kid, went to CAMMACK Jr. High and graduated from HHS.  We've had fun reminiscing about Huntington back in the 1900's.  He told me they were "tearing Cammack down," but the photos show they're renovating.  That's good.  Neat old building.  I remember that Ms. Newcomb, the art teacher, had the 1st floor southeast corner room with the greenhouse in the corner where she had potted plants.  She must have taken anger management classes because she would never yell and scream when kids provoked her.  No, she'd walk back in the greenhouse, and you'd here a "crash" and she would have dashed one of her potted plants on the ground.  I think I have a memory of Joe McVay beaming with pride when Ms. Newcomb went back and executed a plant because of his stimulus!  Made him proud, made us laugh, and then we should have realized that Joe was made for success!”  Michael Lerner

Health Care Reform Discussion

   We had quite a lively discussion about the government health care debate and pending legislation.  Unfortunately, we got too emotional and it caused several arguments between friends.  While there were several good facts brought out, much of the material which came from our “sources” appeared in a very political presentation.  And, we picked sides and the argument got personal.  The result of all of this is the reminder to keep out of political discussions on our HHS 1960 class e-mails.  Please see http://hhs1960.tripod.com/emailaddresses/ for e-mail guidelines.  Fred

More Photos.

   Please see Classmate Photos for photos of classmates Bill and Litz Jarvis and Family, John and Donna Underwood, Donna Henry Hutchison, Beth Rogers Joyce, Doug Norris, and Chari Stevens Singleton.  These photos were “stolen” from their Facebook pages, with permission.

Favorite Web Sites and Slide Shows. 

   Several of you have sent special web sites and slide shows for our enjoyment over the period.

David Reeder - http://www.mikesoldiestoo.com/

Fred Charles - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUDMezJR7uc. This is Our West Virginia.

Mike McComas – Who Are They?  An oldie challenge.

Anita Herbert Oller – The Class Reunion.  Funny story.

Judy Browning Clark - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmT1-jEmK74. Little Darlin’ by The Diamonds

Helen Belvin Vinson - http://www.youtube.com/watchv=fQ3QzUbmAzE&feature=related.  Little Darlin’ by The Diamonds

Rhys Evans - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMona5LE7sA.  Patsy Cline imitation.

Anita Herbert Oller – Those Were the Days (1955)

John Hampton – History Exam

David Reeder – Recognizing a Stroke

Donna Underwood - Days of Black and White.  Memories of black and white TV

Donna Darbes McGehee - H1N1 Swine Flu presentation

David Reeder – http://www.tropicalglen.com/.  Oldies music.