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2008 Comments


12/25/08:

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!


Bette
tsou@comcast.net


12/20/08:
Just heard about Martha and again I am shocked. She was always such a dynamic person. We shared Majoretes and all the sports. We must savor each and every day to honor those we have loved and I know are in a better place. May you all stay well and we will meet again. A special love to Teresa. Happy holidays. Love Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
caroletomvail@Yahoo.com


12/19/08:
To Martha's family we send our deepest condolences and loving thoughts. She will be missed and surely her classmates will always remember her. We've all captured the memory of her radiant smile.
MaryLou
MaryLou Bracciotti
mbracciotti@yahoo.com


12/12/08:
I have just heard from Liz Pulsifer that Martha Darling passed away this morning. I feel very sad but also grateful that our reunion and subsequent girls' luncheons gave me the chance to get to know Martha again and truly enjoy her friendship.
See Martha's obituary.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


12/05/08:
Just wanted to say Happy Holidays, didn't want to offend with Merry Christmas. but there I said it. Special hello to Teresa and hope that Donnie is doing well. This also goes for anyone else who has had a trying year. My 5 year old grandson, Hunter,gave the toast at Thanksgiving. "I am thankful for all the people at this table" I am thankful for all my wonderful classmates. Good Love to all Carole
We are spending our first Christmas out of New England. Florida seems warm but strange....
Carole Carbone Vail
caroletomvail@Yahoo.com


01/15/08:
As we approach this holiday season, I would like to share a few thoughts. I usually offend someone when I get too serious, so forgive me if that happens.

For those of you who have lost very dear loved ones this year, I know the holidays will be difficult for you. I would suggest you cherish and remember those Precious Memories and share them with other loved ones. Look into the faces of your children and grandchildren and see your loved ones. Remember the happy times. I know, easier said then done.

For those of us, me included, who faced serious health issues and major surgery this year and came through the other side better then before. And for those who are still facing major health issues, faith is a wonderful thing. The deeper the faith, the further it will take you. The first line of my favorite hymn is "Be not dismayed whate'er betide, God will take care of you".

Finally, no matter how you feel about the outcome of the recent election, who of us would live anyplace else. We are not a perfect nation, but we are the best, and we have the option every 2, 4 or 6 years to "fire or rehire" whom we want, so all things considered, we should count our blessings and look up not down. so, in the words of TIny TIme, "God Bless us, everyone".

HAPPY THANKSGIVING AND MERRY CHRISTMAS. Liz "Pollyanna" Pulsfer
Liz Pulsifer Wyatt
nanaliz12@webtv.net


09/17/08:
Hi everyone: Donnie: Get better soon, all your friends are pulling for you. God Bless and Best Wishes
Merrilyn
Merrilyn Bacon Greene
mgreene@verizon.net


09/13/08:
So happy to hear that Don is recovering so well. I apoke to him at length at the wake. This was a big one but he seemed in the right frame of mind to handle. Thank you Bette for keeping us all posted. Theresa, I think of you every day.
God bless. Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
caroletomvail@Yahoo.com


09/11/08:
To everyone who has been concerned about Don, I just received the following email from his daughter:

THANK YOU to all who have prayed and supported Don and his family during this last surgical challenge. In under 6 days Don recovered well enough to be discharged from the hospital, skip Rehab, and go to Cape Cod to recover.
May you all enjoy health, love of family, and a wonderful Fall season.
Love, Denise
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


08/22/08:
The news of Dick Steele's death is stunning. Just a few weeks ago he was hale and hearty and was inviting us all to visit he and Theresa in their new home in Lantana, Florida. Today, many of us attended the visiting hours for Dick at the Finnegan Funeral Home (now the McDonald Finnegan Funeral Home) here in Stoneham. We each carried memories of our youth, especially remembering how much Dick Steele played an integral part in our years at Stoneham High. Dick was a well-repected member of the class of '54 and he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Jack and MaryLou Bracciotti
mbracciotti@yahoo.com


08/19/08:
Like others, I too was shocked to learn of Dick Steele's passing. He was a friend, a teammate, a leader and someone I truly respected. My thoughts and prayers go out to Theresa and the family. I will miss our occasional rendezvous at the Silver Diner in Springfield. God Bless. Dave
David Woodbury
dewoodbury@ msn.com


08/19/08:
I have no words. Dick was SHS for me and so many of my memories of school, classes & sports include Dick. I will make every effort to be there on Friday. Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
caroletomvail@Yahoo.com


08/18/08:
I have just learned that a Funeral service for Dick will be held in the McDonald-Finnegan Funeral Home, 322 Main St., Stoneham on Saturday at 11 AM. Relatives and friends may call at the Funeral Home on Friday from 4 to 8 PM. Interment will be at Lindenwood Cemetery, Stoneham.
See Dick's obituary.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


08/18/08:
I was shocked to learn of Dick Steele's Passing. There was no clue that he was ill even in our recent exchange of emails. Dick was the finest athlete of our class and undoubtedly one of the best, if not the best athlete SHS ever produced. To me, physically and talent-wise he was a carbon copy of Mickey Mantle, but most of all he was a loyal friend. Susan and I were fortunate to spend an evening or two over dinner with he and Theresa in recent years. Our sympathy goes out to Theresa and their family.
Jack Fleisher
nhampsha@nhampsha.com


08/18/08:
We are shocked and saddened to learn of our beloved classmate Dick Steele's death, on Sunday morning, August 17th.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net





Bob Campbell & Dottie Chaput & and a few old friends from North School
at our 2007 Girls' Luncheon
We'll miss both of them.
See Bob's obituary from The Stoneham Independent.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


08/4/08:
Dear Robert,
Even though you made fun of the little Italian girl at North School, I couldn't help but like you. Was it the garlic in the meatball sandwiches or the peppers falling out of the fritatta that drew your attention? Whatever the case, I got over it and never thought less of you. Actually, I always found you to be clever and talented. While life took you on a rather circuitous journey, I think that somehow you managed to gather it all together and finish it rather nicely. Our last visit was full of stories. You sat in my living room and shared pictures of all of your family, carefully detailing how each member filled a piece of the fabric that made up your life. You were pleased with the sale of your family property and happy with your new apartment. Although you were ill, you didn't focus on the negative. Our conversations offered a great time for sharing, always peppered with your off-beat humor. I will miss you and so will all who knew you and cared about you. Yes, ! Robert Campbell, you were a very endearing man.
Mary Lou Bracciotti
mbracciotti@yahoo.com


08/3/08:
Thank you Bette and Mary Lou for again arranging a wonderful day for us to get together. We all had a great time sharing our stories of the past and the present. We had so much fun and then the rain came quite heavily enabling us to stay longer to chat and talk about the next time wewill be getting together.

Thanks for the memories!
Donna Eramo Sullivan
donna@jbarrettrealty.com


08/2/08:
Bob was a dear friend who stayed in touch via phone calls and letters. I talked with him a couple of weeks ago and he still maintained a positive attitude. Bob was very kind and generous to my Lisa and she and I will miss him and his his unique humor.
Tom Walsh
tomwalsh4@comcast.net


08/2/08:
Thanks for the nice tribute to Bobby Campbell. For interested classmates -- his services will be held next Thursday, August 7, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. in the McDonald-Finnegan Funeral Home, 322 Main Street, Stoneham, MA. Visitation is Wednesday, August 6, 2008 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Sorry I missed the annual Girls' Luncheon on July 23rd. I was flying back from a month-long visit to California and wasn't aware of the date until Nancy Lambright phoned on the 22nd to wish me a Happy Birthday. Maybe we will see some of you at Bob's Services.
Mary Lou Conroy Clabby
m.clabby@comcast.net


07/31/08:
We are very sad to hear that Bob Campbell has died. He was our classmate at North School. And already from 1st Grade, he was amusing us with his off-beat wit and impressing us with his extraordinary artwork. He never lost his weird sense of humor. Last summer, he appeared at our Girls' Luncheon through the back door, carrying an old, broken lawn chair he had picked up on the street in somebody's trash. Bob truly appreciated and enjoyed life's ironies. He also valued highly his old school friends, and he let everyone know how proud he was to be the godfather of Tom Walsh's beautiful daughter.

See Bob's obituary from The Stoneham Independent.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


7/26/08:
Click here for Girls' Lunch '08 photos.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


07/24/08:
Well, you and Marylou did it again! What a lovely time I had, seeing everyone again. Certainly it proves the point that seventy is the new sixty. So many people in good shape, exercising, keeping busy, even working...it's a tribute to the times we live in, I guess. There is so much emphasis placed on eating right and staying healthy. In our parents' day you just lived as long as you lived and that was that. I was especially glad to see Alfred Barker there. He couldn't have been in a friendlier place than with us. He is still a good lookin' dude, isn't he? It will be a time yet before the numbness wears off, but within a decent time frame he will start getting invitations, etc., etc. I hope he can keep his head on straight when that happens. Fortunately, everyone has your email address, so you might be the elected Advice Queen. You can do it, Bette. Many thanks to you and Marylou. Somehow when we can all gather once a year there is some balance to life. However, next time I am going to ignore the "don't bring anything" email and contribute something. The food was great, and the desserts were just enough. I know you will let us know about plans for the reunion as time goes on, but I would love to help in any way I can. Thanks to the miracle of email, living a distance away means nothing.
Dottie
tsou@comcast.net


07/17/08:
Just a reminder that our annual Girls' Luncheon will be in Topsfield on Wednesday, July 23rd, and we'd love to see you there.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


07/13/08:
Jack and I were saddened to learn of Ginny's death. The words Al shared with us convey the depth of their love. It is truly special that he and Ginny were able to hold on to this special bond in good times and in hard times. As Al and his family mark Ginny's passing, we want them to know that we share in their grief.
Jack and Mary Lou Bracciotti
mbracciotti@yahho.com


07/12/08:
Ann and I are saddened to learn of Ginny Barker's passing. She and Al are our dear friends and we will miss Ginny and her infectious laughter. Our hearts go out to Al and his children, Kathy and Jim.
Ed and Ann Paquette
epaquette@tampabay.rr.com


07/11/08:
Last night at, about 11 PM , Ginny was called to Heaven to once again be with our beloved son Michael.

She died in comfort and at peace with God.

Day after day, for the past six weeks, Ginny fought long and hard to get well and get home. She never complained, and she never gave up. Her body just could not take anymore.

I was by her side every day for the past six weeks and most of those days were filled with hope and a total commitment to her recovery. In spite of her illness we had many wonderful days together, with laughter, deep conversation, and a complete interchange of our thoughts and feelings for one another. It was the type of interchange that only two people who have been married together for fifty years can do with ease.

We slowly learned no matter how bad the future may look, we could work together to try and make the best of the present. We began to live by the quote that says,

" Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass,
It's about learning to dance in the rain........"

Over the last six weeks, Ginny and I have learned to dance in the rain and I know that we will both continue our embrace through eternity.
Al Barker
AGBarker@aol.com


06/27/08:
We're changing the date of our Girls' Luncheon. It will be in Topsfield on Wednesday, July 23rd. Wednesday is a better traveling day than Firday for those who drive from New Hampshire and Maine. We'll send post cards and emails with the details.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


06/26/08:
Heard from Merrilyn(Bacon)Greene that we are having another get together this Summer. We also moved back from North Carolina, this time to Hampton NH. Finally settled in and back working part time at the Surf Beach Shop on the beach. Dan is doing a lot of fishing on one of Al Gauron's boats out of Hampton harbour. Looking forward to seeing old friends at the cookout.
Kay Hooper Covell
grayfox747@comcast.net


06/22/08:
Hi everyone: I was just wondering, if there is any plan in the works for a summer get together this year? I have missed every previous one because I lived in North Carolina, but will be closer this year and will try to attend if there is one planned.
Merrilyn
Merrilyn Bacon Greene
mgreene@verizon.net


06/05/08:
The purpose of this Website is to keep our class together. Much more connects us than separates us, which is obvious from the responses to this page over the past four years. Politics at this point is a divider, so let's leave it out of our Website conversation. Keep sending your personal comments. Without them, our Website would have no reason to continue.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


04/21/08:
So very sorry to read about Dottie. We were close friends esp at North school. We did not live to far from each other and remember it was a big deal to be able to visit at each others homes. God speed Dottie we will meet again if you put in a good word for me.
Carole Carbone Vail
caroletomvail@Yahoo.com


04/12/08:
Thank you, Ralph, for letting us know about Dorothy. She was my friend in first grade. She sat behind me, and together we got in trouble for the first time. We made hats out of our green music books, which was great fun until Miss Miller took the books off our heads and made us put our heads on our desks. We renewed our friendship at the Reunion and last summer's Girls' Luncheon. When she was leaving, she told Mary Lou and me that she wouldn't be back again. Dorothy was a lovely person, and we'll miss her.

See Dorothy's obituary from The Chelmsford Independent.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


04/12/08:
Another of our classmates has passed. Dorothy Chaput. I remember her from day one at North School.
Ralph Larson
lord@metrocast.net


04/11/08:
Hello everyone, I'm glad to see that the web page is still active. Wanted to update you with my new E. address merrgreene@verizon.net My husband Carlton was very ill for many months last year. So, we decided to move back to Maine to be closer to our family. It's nice to be able to report that he is doing very much better and he is very happy to be back in our home State of Maine. I don't think there has been a snowier year here for many many years. I keep thinking that right now N.C. (our home for the past 5 years) has flowers and trees with flowers and leaves at this point and we are waiting for the snow to go to even see the grass. However, the most important thing in our health and Thank God Carl's is improving very rapidly and life is good once again. Now if we could just sell our pretty little home in N.C. all would be perfect. Thanks for keeping the website going. Fond regards to all.
Merrilyn Bacon Greene
merrgreene@verizon.net


03/30/08:
We have an addition to the Byo Bytes page. Gerry Griffin has added her bio. I'm sure a lot of classmates have updates. Send yours to me and I'll post it.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


03/30/08:
I haven't been back to the web page for some time. Thanks for keeping it going! How many of you remember some of the other places now long gone from Main Street: Tracy's Bakery, used to be down by the library, Meister's Bakery up by Montvale Avenue; Barbo's Furniture Store; O'Grady's Diner; The Brownie Shop, a few doors down from Tracy's. Also, Schaeffer's the gift shop and news store where many of us picked up papers for our paper routes when we were kids. I remember doing paper routes out of shaeffer's for 4 years (48 - 52) until I went to work at the First National Store where Russ Tyler, Steve Haseltine also worked after school.
Don Nickerson
topdonn@verizon.com


03/05/08:
I'm sad that Hanks is closing. As a child, I remember going uptown shopping with my mother and being rewarded with my favorite treat at Hanks, a big round cookie frosted half chocolate and half white. A more recent memory is Mary Lou and I sitting outside Hanks, after a long walk, sipping coffees and munching Finnegans.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


03/05/08:
In case you didn't know, Hank's Bakery had just closed it's door forever. Hank's will be well missed, along with Star Market, First National, Gilchrist, Grant's, Woolworths, Kresges, Kennedy's, Jordan Marsh, Filene's, Filene's Basement, Kennedy's Butter & Eggs, Liggett's Rexall Drug Store, Frederick's Drug Store, Finnegan's, Middlesex Drug Store, Farm Hill, Caldors, Ames, Thom McAn, Fanny Farmer, Barricini's Candy, Lerner, Conrad & Chandler, Roaman's, Levitts, Brigham's, Cinema at Redstone, Holliday Lanes, Adventure Car Hop on Route 1 in Saugus, I Hop, Ted's Inn, and Kimballs Pond. What ever happend to Stoneham. It's not the same town anymore.
james atchison
atsf06051959@yahoo.com


2007 Comments

12/24/07:

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


10/26/07:
I'm happy that I found this site again after losing it to a series of computer crashes and problems. High praise to Bette for keeping it going and Google for finding it. The highlight of my year was a two week trip to Melbourne, Australia, with Susan, to see the Aussie Open tennis tournament. What we viewed as a once-in-a-lifetime trip was so much fun that we're now actively planning to return to Australia in January, 2009. The Australians are the most good-natured, humorous people you can ever hope to encounter. The tournament was exciting, the wine tour refreshing and the coastal scenery beautiful.
John (Jack) Fleisher
nhampsha@nhampsha.com


10/23/07:
Dear members of the SHS Class of 1954.
I am a sophomore at SHS in the class of 2010. I am a member of the band and I am trying to find the orginal words to the Stoneham Song (SHS fight song) if there are any. Any information would be appreciated to where I could find the words or if any of you know them and would pass them along to me.
Thank you
Nick
SHS Class of 2010
Nicholas Sciarlante
nicholasciarlante@hotmail.com


10/21/07:
Hi Bette - Please thank your brother Jack for me. The 6/15/07 submission is touching and lovely! I appreciate it very much, it helped! - Don
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


06/15/07:
I wish I could dry her tears, heal the awfulness of her pain.
Make her life in even the tiniest way, better.
I wish I could touch each place that hurts and miraculously Transform it to wellness.
I wish I could travel beyond her anger and desperateness to the beauty joy and kindness of the real her-the real home of the woman I have loved so much over the years.
I wish all the saints, angels, Allah Buddha and Jesus would land en masse on her shoulders and lift the undeserved burden that was wrongly levied upon her.
To the Judges and Gods I cry, Why is this happening to her, the most decent of persons? Why? Stop it now, stop it. Just stop it for Christ's sake. Take the damned pins and needles out of his side and lift the god damned lumber from hers.
Hear me Lord. Hear the sounds of her injuries. Count them-all of them And you will see that your count is fouled up. You've got it wrong up there. Her pain was due to go away three hours ago.
Jack Flynn
hollerway482@yahoo.com


9/14/07:
Don, in April 2000, my very close friend, Helen, died of leukemia. I saw her every day that year, when we knew she was dying. Her only concern was her husband. Her daughter had her children, her son had his fiance, and she knew her husband could not live alone. After she died, I tried to help him find someone on match.com. Well, he didn't find anyone there, but soon after he met a wonderful woman. They have been together for almost seven years, and I know Helen is content, because the husband she loved has someone who cares for him. Helen was a wonderful part of his life, and now Linda is a new wonderful part. It's not disrespectful to go on with your life; it's worse to despair.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


09/14/07:
Here I sit "broken hearted" and lonely. Do you understand what it is like to lose the one you have loved since she was 14 years old and a dream in your eyes? This is so difficult. Thanks for the web page it helps.
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


8/28/07:
Sadly, we have lost another classmate.
Marilyn Meuse's obituary
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


8/15/07:
Many thanks to Bette and Marylou for such a wonderful day and for those great pictures. The whole experience was inspiring. I was inspired to lose weight, inspired to stay in touch throughout the year, but most of all I was grateful to be around to enjoy such nice people.


8/10/07:
Good point, Joan. It's hard to recognize someone you haven't seen for 53 years.
Click here for Girls' Lunch '07 photos. With names attached!
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


8/10/07:
Loved the pix... thanks for sharing.. but wish names were included with the pix... I can pick out some but not all.. in any case you all look great!
Joan Spooner Ellis
ellisjoane@verizon.net


8/9/07:
I can appreciate Carol's frustration dealing with consensus. Renting a house in Costa Rica I've learned that "cinco minutos" does not mean five minutes, and I've had to deal with upgrading the electric wiring, hot water systems, etc. But isn't great that after all these years these are the things we have to "worry" about. Sure beats dealing with getting a homework assignment done on time. See www.grorchids.com, Orosi Valley Orchids for info and views. Russ Tyler
Russ Tyler
rmtyler@brainerd.net


8/8/07:
I am so sorry I did not make such a great day. Thank you for th pictures. David you look great, I hope you will come to our Bates reunion in June. You are as much one of that class as I am. June 8th. Carol Peacock and I have sent some E-mails, Such fun. Thank you Bette for this website, I love it. Love to all Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
caroletomvail@yahoo.com


8/7/07:
It was another wonderful day!
Click here for Girls' Lunch '07 photos.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


8/4/07:
Hope everyone had a great time. Unfortunately, I was away for the weekend. "poor planning". It is so good to keep in touch after so many years. Dave Sheets called and we'll be talking more. I won't miss the next get together.
Steve
Steve Haseltine
sandlha@comcast.net


7/22/07:
I'm so sorry I won't be at lunch with all of you - and I hope you have a good turnout. If it's not too much trouble perhaps you could send us absentees a short summary of the highlights of the lunch. Unlike Steve Haseltine, I have not become younger but decidedly older now that I am 70. I retired from my law practice on December 31 of last year and since that time have been traveling to visit my grandchildren in California and North Carolina (# 10 is due in December) and here to Italy. Luigi and I have begun a pattern - at least we hope we live long enough to make it a pattern - of living in DC from November through May and in Italy, from June through October. We are here in Dogliani, the wine growing country of Piedmont, about one hour south of Torino. We are in an old family house that belongs to Luigi and his two brothers. The house requires much care and it is always a struggle to get a three-way consensus to do anything, unless there is a crisis. We had a water pipe break in the courtyard and as a result two bathrooms were disabled. One bathroom that includes my washing machine has been temporarily hooked up but in order to fix the problem thoroughly, the tile floor of the bottom bathroom has to be destroyed to get at the pipes underneath. As long as we're destroying a whole floor - might as well make other improvements. Right? Maybe. That has begun a three-pronged negotiation among brothers - one of whom rarely comes and wants to pinch pennies and one of whom always wants to maintain the status quo. What is interesting is that unlike what one reads in A Year in Province or Under the Tuscan Sun, it is easy to get very good work done here. The craftsmen belong to families that have been plying their trade for generations and they are excellent.

My spoken Italian is improving and Luigi and I are enjoying the wonderful food and wine of this region. None of that helps our weight but does lift our spirits.

Have a wonderful lunch and say hello to all for me.

Carol Carol
Carole Peacock Einaudi
cpeinaudi@yahoo.com


7/16/07:
Please type here:Jack and I just returned from a trip with our grandchildren. We visited all of the Great Lakes, hitting the highlights of each. After traveling for many miles, we arrived in Boulder Junction, WI (located in the north woods of WI) where we spent a few days with the children's other grandparents enjoying the wilderness at Wildcat Lake. We left our family there and Jack and I traveled by train on to Milwaukee and Chicago, two great cities to visit. We flew into Boston last night. Now we're home and ready to get together on Friday, July 27th. Bette and I promise to keep it simple, so just bring yourself. It will be a casual gathering, one where we simply enjoy one another's company.

If you have not responded and if you decide at the last minute that you could join us, just appear that Friday. We'll be glad to see you.
Mary Lou
mbracciotti@yahho.com


7/7/07:
Thank you for your invitation Marylou and Bette, sorry but I will not be able to make it. I am sure you will all have a rippen good time. Well, as "rippen" as we can get at our ages.

I do however, log onto the classmates site to see what everyone is up to and enjoy all the comments. It is also very sad when we lose one of our own.

Hope you all have a good summer, looks like the coolness we have had in NE is now going to get a little warm but thank God that does not last long.

My very best to you all, Joan
Joan Spooner Ellis
ellisjoane@verizon.net


7/6/07:
Hi everyone ! What a great idea to get together. I'm sure it'll be fun to see how much younger we've become since we last met.

Sadly, I won't be able to make it. Say hello to everyone. Aren't we fortunate to have each other as such good friends.

Have a great time. Keep smilin'
Steve Haseltine
sandlha@comcast.net


7/5/07:
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


06/14/07:
Warren McCarthy was a hero of mine growing up. There was a powerful photo of him in the Stoneham Independent-slamming a straight arm into his opponents face as he battered his way to a touchdown. That did it for me-a younger untalented player.

Warren had a life engaging vitality that lit up any place he entered-a High School dance or party, Howard Johnson's, the China Moon. He went to college riding a wave of adulation and although he may not have set the place afire with academic achievement he was a master at making friends. It wasn't as though Warren couldn't do college work. He was involved with so many friends, he simply forgot to do it.

Later, of course, to everyone's benefit, he found his niche with the Stoneham Police Department.

You can always tell in a town, who the important people are. They are the ones who have the most stories told about them. Stories that sometimes reach the level of legend. Allie Duff was one of those. Jimmy Kelly was one of those. Warren was one of those.

He was a cop, but a cop with a heart.
Jack Flynn
hollerway482@yahoo.com


06/12/07:
It's official! The 3rd Annual Stoneham Class of 1954 Girls' Luncheon will be held at Mary Lou's on Friday, July 27th at 12 noon. We'll send postcards with the details.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


06/9/07:
Looking forward again to our luncheon this summer and seeing everyone. For those who didn't make it last year, but will come this year, I still have some cups and saucers for you, as well as mugs for the guys. If you can't make it this year and would like one, just let me know via this website and I'll see about getting one out to you. See you soon!
Liz Pulsifer Wyatt
nanaliz12@webtv.net


05/29/07:
Its so good to once again see activity on this web Site! I check it often, it gives me something pleasant to do. Regards, Don.
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


05/27/07:
As Bette and I were returning from a walk, who should we meet but our old buddy, Bob Campbell! We're happy to note that he's maintained his sense of humor and seems to be enjoying life. He's interested in joining us for our summer luncheon which we plan to have in Stoneham at the Bracciotti residence. We do not have a date yet. However, when we do, we'll let you know the details.
Mary Lou
mbracciotti@yahoo.com


05/26/07:
We would like to express our sympathy to Carol McCarthy upon the recent death of her brother, Warren. Warren was two years ahead of us at Stoneham High School. He was a past member of the Stoneham Police Department, having served as a police officer for the town. Recently, the Town of Stoneham held a town meeting and at the opening, a moment of silence was held in memory of Warren. This solemn tribute gave us time to pause and acknowledge his service to the community.
Mary Lou Gigante Bracciotti
mbracciotti@yahoo.com


05/24/07:
Bill and I just returned from our 6th winter in FL. It was a good one, weather wise. At least we didn't have a freeze. We always keep pretty down there. We didn t have a Class of 54 reunion in FL, as he had the previous winter however, we spent a day with Lloyd Thistle and his lovely wife Jean over on the east coast. Such fun being with our old classmates.

Now that we are back in Nashua NH for the summer, I am wondering if there will be another Class of 54 luncheon as we have had the past two summers. If so, I will certainly put the day aside. It would be wonderful if it could be in Stoneham this time around. Topsfield is so beautiful, but such a long distance for some of us folks. Anyhow, I hope we can all get together once again.

Nearly forgot to say that I was at the China Moon in Stoneham the other day, having lunch with cousin Florence (Hurlburt) Paonessa, and bumped into Jean Nuzzo and her husband. I hadn t seen her in years.

Take care all, and hope to see you this summer.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


03/06/07:
I came accross an old picture (1954) of "initiation into the Girl's club" It pictured a group of us blindfolded. I remember we were told we were eating worms and in reality it was pimento's. At any rate standing around in the group were dear friends during all those years including Jane Flor, Marilyn Mattsen, Marilyn Meuse, Janet Marks, Maureen Buckley, Loretta Macarthy, and myself Merrilyn(Bunnie) Bacon. Seeing that picture reminded me of the fun that we shared and the loses we have suffered as a class. God Bless everyone, I treasure those memories. Merrilyn
Merrilyn Bacon Greene
mgreene1@ec.rr.com


02/28/07:
I'm now in the kitchin of our house in Stoneham. Its ~ 30 degrees out, it was a rather warm day for Feb. in Mass. My daughters want me to stay here for the next several weeks, which I think is a smart move. Its been very emotional and difficult for me to come to grips with the loss of my 55 year "best friend", wife, and lover. We started dating in High School and were always in love. I never thought she would be the first to go.
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


2/16/07:
I am also saddened in learning of Jane's death. All I can remember is sunshine and fun when around Jane. My heart goes out to Don and all her family and friends. Life indeed is short, no matter how many years we have to enjoy it and all tbe good and bad it has to offer. I am so sorry Don, I hope you can find some peace in the love you shared with Jane. Love Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
carolevail@surfglobal.net


2/11/07:
We are sorry to learn of Jane Flor Simpson's death. We extend our sympathy to Don, Denise, Heidi, and Donald. Following are the details for the services: Relatives and friends are invited to the Anderson-Bryant Funeral Home at 4 Common Street, Stoneham on Thursday, February 15 from 2:00-4:00 P.M. and 7:00-9:00 P.M.

The funeral will be from the Anderson-Bryant Funeral Home at 9:00 A.M. on Friday, followed by a 10:00 Funeral Mass at Saint Patrick Church, Stoneham. Memorial tributes may be sent to the Joslin Diabetes Center, One Joslin Place, Boston MA 02215 or the American Heart Association, 20 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.

Jane will be remembered fondly by all who knew and loved her and, in a special way, by her high school classmates.

See Jane's obituary from The Stoneham Independent.
Mary Lou
mbracciotti@yahoo.com


2/09/07:
I just got a call from Lloyd Thistle, informing me that Jane passed away this morning around 5:00AM. Thankfully their 2 daughters have been down here with Don. The funeral arrangements will be at Bryant Funeral Home in Stoneham. I do not know the day or calling hours. It is too bad that we had to lose another beloved classmate. Life is short.
Janet LeBlanc DeFeo
DEfWll@aol.com


2/08/07:
We are saddened by the news of Jane Flor Simpson's sudden illness. This is a trying time for the Simpson family and we send our positive thoughts and prayers to each of them.
Mary Lou
mbracciotti@yahoo.com


2/07/07:
Jane has suffered a major heart attack and stroke and their prayers are needed for both her and Don. Janet LeBlanc DeFeo
Janet
DEfWll@aol.com


2006 Comments

11/27/06:
I had a surprise visit from Don Simpson and I want you all to know that he's amazing. He's had major health issues and he's looking exceptionally well. What a remarkable recovery he's made. Jane's done a good job as his nurse and he's maintained a great attitiude throughout it all. He's our "miracle man!" MaryLou
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


10/12/06:
Don, I didn't want to laugh at this. It's so fifties and anti-feminist. But it really struck me funny. And I don't even play golf.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


10/12/06:
Golf with a smile

Towards the end of the golf course, Dave hit his ball into the woods and found it in a patch of pretty yellow buttercups. Trying to get his ball back in play, he ended up thrashing just about every buttercup in the patch. All of a sudden........POOF!

In a flash and puff of smoke, a little old woman appeared. She said, ''I'm mother Nature! Do you know how long it took me to make those buttercups? Just for doing what you have done, you won't have any butter for your popcorn for the rest of your life, No, better still, you won't have any butter for your toast for the rest of your life.................as a matter of fact, you'll never have any butter for anything the rest of your life!!!!!!

Then POOF!..........she was gone!

After Dave recovered from the shock, he hollered for his friend, ''Mike where are you?''

Mike yells back ''I'm over here, in the pussy willows.''

Dave shouts back, ''DON'T SWING, Mike; for the love of God, DON'T SWING!''
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


10/06/06:
Happy to say that I'm about to enter the next, but not final, stage of retirement. As of 5 Oct 06, I've rented a house in Paraiso, Costa Rica, and will use that as a base for my Costa Rica orchid activities. The 3rd Costa Rican Orchid Tour is scheduled for May 2007. In a separate mailing I'll send flyer (Oroso Valley Orchids is the name under which a partner and I organize orchid tours).
Russ Tyler
rmtyler@brainerd.net


9/15/06:
It was really good to just sit and catch up with not so old friends. Just where did the years go? Bette and Marylou did a great job, again, and I love My SHS cup/// The trip home was not a problem as I expected with little trafic. A good surprise. Loved my talk with Theresa, we would have been a good team thru the years in the home building business. We both love designing homes, maybe that would have been a problem between two Italians/// Bye for now, good health and Love to all. Glad to hear you are doing well Don. Have to get together again in Florida. Love to all Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
carolevail@surfglobal.net


9/12/06:
We did have a great day in August. It's amazing to me how quickly we can pick up where we left off many years ago. There is a certain amount of comfort being among old friends. I do look forward to seeing you all again. Stay well.
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


9/9/06:
Thank you for keeping us up to date with one another. Sorry, I was unable to be at the luncheon, but I was there in spirit. I too loved the favors that Liz made, she was kind enough to send one to me and to Kay Hooper Covell who now lives close by us in N.C. Liz and Janet kept me up to date with the festivities. Your web site is so nice to visit and catch up with what our classmates are up to. Thanks again. Bunnie
Merrilyn Bacon Greene
mgreene1@ec.rr.com


9/9/06:
Read this poem! I Remember
When I read it I got misty eyed! It brought back so many memories of a difficult but successful time in my life. As you know I lost my Mom at the start of our senior year. After High School I volunteered to go on active duty in the Navy and was sent to Submarine School in New London, Ct. Several months later I was assigned to the U.S. Irex, SS482. While many of my classmates went to College I was riding a Submarine over much of our Atlantic world. It made me what I am!
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


9/4/06:
Sorry it took me so long to report on our Girls' Luncheon. It was a beautiful day, it was fun, it was great seeing everybody again, though we missed those who couldn't be there, and we'll do it again next year.

Amazing Favors Hand-sewn by Liz Pulsifer
 
Click here for Girls' Lunch '06 photos.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


8/7/06:
Good morning Bette,
Sorry but Jane and I will not be attending your Sto. High get-together. I am still recovering from my Jan. Stroke - feeling better each passing week, starting to drive, and am able to take care of myself, and walk and talk. I also will be able and willing to share a dance with you when next we meet where dance music is playing. (or we will just hum together!) I feel that I have been blessed and am a very happy man. Your friend, Don
PS - The following is representive of our earlier days!
All of us girls...
Old and young...
Near and far...
Hold special memories of good times we've shared.
We've had our share of hard times when our friends were there to make us feel better.
We've shared...
our hearts
our time
our secrets
our fears
our hopes
and our dreams.
Let us never break the chain of friends!
girlfriends
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


8/4/06:
Reminder: Our Girls' Luncheon is next Friday, August 11th
It's not too late to let us know you're coming.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


6/29/06:
Even without the attachment on the first mailing I was happy to receive it as I lost my email address book in a computer crash.
And speaking of crash, I won't be crashing the Annual Luncheon, but I am sending a "Hello!" to those who attend, including the crashers.
Bette, Sorry to hear about your attachment disorder; I thought that you and your family members attached very well. But, I didn't know much about mental health issues in those days.
I'm attaching a file to give you a glimpse into my current life. Please keep in touch....
Russ
Russ Tyler
rmtyler@brainerd.net


6/28/06:
Hi Everybody. More household tips!
Don
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


6/14/06:
Hey, Steve, after that glowing tribute to women, we're glad we've invited the boys to our Girls' Luncheon this year. Hope to see you there. It's in Topsfield so you can ride your bike. We'll send emails and postcards soon with all the details.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


6/14/06:
One Flaw In Women

Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about
a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they
think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss
can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you
to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what
makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their
family and friends.
Women have vital things to say
and everything to give.

However, if there is one flaw in women,
it is that they forget their worth.
Steve Haseltine
sandlha@comcast.net


6/06/06:
It's raining and it's raining and it's raining. It's June and it's in the fifties. Walking is no fun, the flowers are waterlogged, and driving anywhere is a challenge. Didn't Spring used to be sunny?
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


5/22/06:
Have to admit that I haven't visited the site for many months. Don't know why, as I so enjoy reading all the comments. We returned from Fl. a few weeks ago and in two days, we leave on a cruise of the Greek Isles. One of the kids is taking us on an EARLY birthday cruise. The highlight of the cruise is a stop in Ephesus, Turkey and a visit to the house of Mary. Funny, I was there exactly 45 years ago on May 25th. Never thought I would ever return.

The reason I'm emailing this, is not about the cruise, but to tell of a meeting I had this past Saturday.

For over 25 years, I have been working side by side with my husband with the Knights of Columbus. One of the main things we've done, is to be active with Camp Fatima in Gilmanton, NH. That involves some things to get the camp ready for the summer kids on Memorial Day week-end and then on Labor Day week-end, we camp with the whole family.

This past Saturday, we went to the camp and there I met up with someone I've worked with and socialized with all these years. She and her husband had just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and I had read about it in the paper. When I saw her maiden name, I was convinced I not only knew her but we went to school together. She is Anna Saunders Mele. I found two pics of her and showed them to her and her comment was, "Where did you get these?" When I told her, she immediately got up and gave me a hug. We used to walk everywhere together. On some Friday nights, we would walk to St. Joseph's in Woburn for the Youth dances, we were in the same Girl Scout troop, etc. The one thing that didn't change, is Anna's eyes and all these years, I have felt there was something familiar about her and now I know.

Just wanted to share this story with all of you that may remember Anna. It was such a good reunion and we've enjoyed each other's company all these years and never knew how really familiar we really are.

Have a nice summer everyone.
Irene Doucette Rhyner
Irhyner@msn.com


5/19/06:
Hello one and all. Yes we had a great visit with Bette , Marylou and husbands. Thanks Charlie for a great meal. Does anyone have Dickie Steel's e-mail? Don, so good to have you back on the computer,any time I feel the need to laugh or be reinformed, I read yout words of wisdom. Have a great summer one and all. I hpoe to be at the summer reunion, God willing. Love Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
carolevail@surfglobal.net


5/11/06:
The Second Annual Stoneham High School Class of '54 Girls' Luncheon/Pool Party will be held on Friday, August 11th at the same place (Topsfield) and the same time (noon). This year we are inviting, as special guests, the boys in our class. And, this year we hope you'll consider bringing your bathing suits, since Mary Lou and I bought new ones in FL especially for the occasion. Let us know if you can come, and we'll send directions. We'll also mail postcards to those who don't do email or websites.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


5/11/06:
Had a wonderful time recently on a quick trip to MA, visiting and shopping with Mary Lou. So much fun. Nancy

Mary Lou Conroy and Nancy MacCannell
Nancy MacCannell Lambright
bingogal54@sbcglobal.net


5/06/06:
Don is home at Bow Lake!!!!! Life is good and my health is still improving - Thanks for all the "Good Wishes" and Prayers"!! I'm sure they all helped. Now I have to go thru ~ 700 messages. Love you all - Don
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


5/05/06:
Our visit to Florida was great. We spent April on North Hutchinson Island and enjoyed it. We had dinner with Carole Carbone Vail and her husband Tom. Charlie, Bette's husband, prepared a super meal and we had a pleasant visit. Carole and Tom have a new home in Vero where they spend the winter.

Upon returning to work this week, Maryanne and Fred Lorance popped in for a visit. They've just returned from a long trip to South America. It sounded like a great trip.

Bette and I are planning our second annual "girls of '54" get together for this summer. I hope that you all think about joining us. We'll have a date soon. Meanwhile, stay in touch. If you visit the area in the summer, call 781-438-4708 so that we can get together when you are in town. Mary Lou
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


4/17/06:
A WOMEN WHO READS

One morning her husband returns after several hours of fishing and decides to take a nap. Although not familiar with the lake, the wife decides to take the boat out. She motors out a short distance, anchors and begins to read her book. Along comes a game warden in his boat. He pulls up alongside the woman and says, "Good morning, Ma'am. What are you doing?"
"Reading a book," she replies. (thinking isn't that obvious?).
"You're in a restricted fishing area", he informs her.
"I'm sorry officer, but I'm not fishing, I'm reading.
"Yes, but you have all the equipment. For all I know you could start at any moment. I'll have to take you in and write you up."
"If you do that, I'll have to charge you with sexual assault," says the woman.
"But I have not even touched you," says the game warden.
"That's true, but you have all the equipment. For all I know you could start at any moment."
"Have a nice day ma'am," and he left.
AND THE MORAL of THIS STORY IS.........Never argue with a woman who reads. It is more than likely she can also think.
Al Barker
agbarker@aol.com


4/11/06:
Bill and Maureen spent Jan Feb and March tramping through Nz and Aus. Climbed most of the best loved peaks. Had a wonderful trip. Anyone interested in how or what we did let me know and I can fill you in on what to expect and where to stay. We can tell you prices and rooms with great views. Three women three months lots of stories and lost 15 pounds as a bonus. Let us hear from you. Sorry to have missed the get to gether in Winter Haven. Hope it was a success. Bill
Bill Fitzgerald
billfitzgerald@msn.com


4/07/06:
As you can see by the following photo, yesterday was the day that 4 of us classmates met at Cypress Gardens. Several could not make it because of health issues. Those that came were Lloyd Thistle, Judy (Bowen) Struble, Peggy (Simmons) McAllister, and myself. Our mates also joined us, so there were 8 of us around the table. It was so much fun getting to know each other, all over again. We all took in the wonderful skating performance. It really was a fun day, and we started talking about doing it again next year, perhaps in the Orlando area.

Lloyd, Judy, Peggy, & Janet
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


5/02/06:
I was in sunny Vero Beach for the month without my computer, so I had to find new things to do, like riding my bike on flat terrain, reading under a palm tree, walking on the beach, hanging out in a pool with Carole Carbone, and shopping for bathing suits with Mary Lou. Meanwhile, the website got neglected, but I'll post the April comments asap.

Vero Beach Buddies
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


3/24/06:
Thanks, Jimmy, we love to hear from '54s who share our memories. I was mostly a wallflower at those dances, but I spent my time there watching and admiring dancers lke you. Keep in touch.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


3/21/06:
I'm not from Stoneham High Class of '54, but from Woburn HS Class of '54 and have been enjoying your website. In my sophomore and junior years I attended the BOOSTER CLUB dances at the town Hall, dances at the Boat House in Wakefield, at KMBALL'S STARLIGHT in Lynnfield and dance at Greenwood(Wakefield). Do you remember these Friday and Saturday night dances in the '50s, great memories. Have friends from your class. Enjoy the snowbirds reunion in FL next month. I'm a regular reader of your wonderful website. Keep it going.
JIMMY
effanjay5@msn.com


3/6/06:
Hi All,
For all you Florida snowbirds, there is going to be a STONEHAM HIGH, CLASS OF 54 REUNION !!!

WHERE: Cypress Gardens in central FL, in the town of Winter Haven.
DATE: Thursday April 6, 2006
TIME: Gather inside the Jubilee Market Place by 11:30AM (a cafeteria type restaurant)
ADMISSION FOR ENTRANCE TO PARK: $34.00. Park open from 10:00AM to 9:00PM daily.
DIRECTION: From Rt. 4 in central FL, take U.S. 27 south. From U.S. 27, turn onto SR 540. Three miles up on the left is Cypress Gardens.

For those of you that may come from a long distance, I would suggest the Best Western Admirals Inn, which is next to Cypress Gardens.
Tel. for the Inn is 1-800-247-2799. Room rates are $114.00. I have brochures, for anyone interested. Just write me with your home address and I will send one to you.

As for the Gardens, I go there often and it is a fun place to gather with friends and family. There are all kinds of entertainment, such as the famous water ski and boat show, a lovely skating performance, a butterfly house, a train museum etc., and all kinds of reasonably priced shops. They also have an amusement park with every kind of ride you can imagine. The actual flower gardens are better than I have ever seen. They had to start all over, after the hurricanes of 2004.

Hope to hear from those of you that are interested in coming to our FLORIDA CLASS REUNION. Send any questions to:
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
665 Hook & Sinker Dr.
Avon Park, FL 33825
863 -385-3245
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


2/25/06:
It is Saturday, Feb. 25 and it is snowing here in NH, Manchester to be exact. It is really quite spectacular. OK, so call me crazy!! I can look out my 11th floor apartment window, towards the north, and see just snow covered trees. Of course, now that I'm retired I appreciate the beauty of winter more now then when I had to go out to work every day. We have actually had a relatively warm and snowless winter. Even a few spells that were almost as warm as Florida. Like Mary Lou said about the previous snow, it will be sparkling tomorrow For the rest of you, Spring comes in about 3 weeks, which is also a beautful time in NH, in spite of the black flies.
Liz Pulsifer Wyatt
nanaliz12@webtv.net


2/13/06:
Just to let you know, New England is sparkling today. We have about twenty inches of fluffy new snow and bright sunshine overhead. This is perfect snow for shoveling and once we finish we shall go up to Bear Hill Golf Course and carve out some cross-country ski trails to enjoy. So, as you can see, northerners have fun too. Mary Lou
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


2/13/06:
Hi to all, Who wishes they were in NE today? Actually I always liked the snow. Life is just easier now here in the warm weather. I work on Habitate houses here in Vero Beach and have become friends with a gal who went to North School for first grade. It was many years after we were there but this a very amall world. I do have a computer here in FL.and a new Email. Love to hear from anyone. Love to all, Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
carolevail@surfglobal.net


2/10/06:
Have you checked out the Don Simpson Page lately?
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


1/18/06:
As soon as I finished making all my calendars, which I give to the kids every year, my computer died, so I've been unable to update this page. We're up and running again, so keep the comments coming.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


1/11/06:
Thought this might be a nice addition to the comments on the web site. I do enjoy reading and seeing the comments from the class. The last few days were relatively warm up north, a lot of the snow has melted and now we see some bare ground, but today it is just 5 degrees. Happy New Year to all. And time moves on. --Judy Fuller

Comments made in the year 1955

  • "I'll tell you one thing, if things keep going the way they are, it's going to be impossible to buy a week's groceries for $20."
  • "Have you seen the new cars coming out next year? It won't be long before $2000 will only buy a used one."
  • "If cigarettes keep going up in price, I'm going to quit. A quarter a pack is ridiculous."
  • "Did you hear the post office is thinking about charging a dime just to mail a letter?"
  • "If the y raise the minimum wage to $1, nobody will be able to hire outside help at the store."
  • "When I first started driving, who would have thought gas would someday cost 29 cents a gallon. Guess we'd be better off leaving the car in the garage."
  • "Kids today are impossible. Those duck tail hair cuts make it impossible to stay groomed. Next thing you know, boys will be wearing their hair as long as the girls."
  • "I'm afraid to send my kids to the movies any more. Ever since they let Clark Gable get by with saying 'damn' in 'Gone With The Wind,' it seems every new movie has either "hell" or "damn" in it.
  • "I read the other day where some scientist thinks it's possible to put a man on the moon by the end of the century. They even have some fellows they call astronauts preparing for it down in Texas."
  • "Did you see where some baseball player just signed a contract for $75,000 a year just to play ball? It wouldn't surprise me if someday they'll be making more than the president."
  • "I never thought I'd see the day all our kitchen appliances would be electric. They are even making electric typewriters now."
  • "It's too bad things are so tough nowadays. I see where a few married women are having to work to make ends meet."
  • "It won't be long before young couples are going to have to hire someone to watch their kids so they can both work."
  • "Marriage doesn't mean a thing any more; those Hollywood stars seem to be getting divorced at the drop of a hat."
  • "I'm just afraid the Volkswagen car is going to open the door to a whole lot of foreign business."
  • "Thank goodness I won't live to see the day when the Government takes half our income in taxes. I sometimes wonder if we are electing the best people to government.
  • "The drive-in restaurant is convenient in nice weather, but I seriously doubt they will ever catch on."
  • "There is no sense going to Lincoln or Omaha anymore for a weekend. It costs nearly $15 a night to stay in a hotel."
  • "No one can afford to be sick any more; $35 a day in the hospital is too rich for my blood."
  • "If they think I'll pay 50 cents for a hair cut, forget it."
Judy Griffin Fuller
fulloon@verizon.net


1/1/06:
Theresa and I would like to wish all our classmates a happy, healthy and safe new year. After all the hardships we faced in 2005 it is hard to believe we are starting 2006 on such a terrible note. I hope that any classmates and their families in the affected areas of the country stay safe. We would still like to try to pull something together in April for all the snowbirds and I guess that includes Lloyd, Ralph and Ed. Any omissions are purely unintentional. If anyone has suggestions lets kick them around.
Dick
rsedonahome@aol.com


2005 Comments

TOP


12/19/05:
Merry Christmas to all. A beautiful poem Dave, and one we should think about every day. I hope you all have a great Holidy season full of Love, Joy and Peace. We will be back to Florida on Jan.5th. after I am sure, a busy Chridtmas with all our family. Love to all Stay in touch
Carole Carbone Vail
Carolevail@verizon.net


12/18/05:
Thank you Dave for sharing that poem with us, It is indeed beautiful and meaningful. In the busyiness of this wonderful season, it is so important to remember the sacrifices our young hero's make on our behalf.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all and God Bless us everyone.
Merrilyn (bunnie) Bacon, Greene
mgreene1@ec.rr.com


12/17/05:
A friend sent me this poem a few days ago and I thought it was worth sharing. Merry Christmas to all our classmates. --Dave Woodbury
 
A DIFFERENT CHRISTMAS POEM

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.


Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.


My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.


The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.


My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.


A Soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.


"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"


For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light.
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,
I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."


"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me."


"My Gramps died at Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers.
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of Nam,
And now it is my turn and so, here I am."


"I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile."
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The Red, White and Blue... an American flag.


"I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat."


"I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother,
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."


"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting, and I'll be all right."


"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."


Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long."


"For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."
Dave Woodbury
dewoodbury@twcny.rr.com


12/12/05:
Just CLICK HERE to enjoy Christmas cartoons from Don Simpson.


12/11/05:
Bill, send us a travel update and a few adventure pictures.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


12/10/05: Bill and Maureen are leaving for New Zealand and Australia on New Years Day for three months of hiking and biking. Looking forward to a great adventure. Talk in the spring. Dick, we are in Florida again for April and early May if a get to gether is in order. If not we will be back in late October. From mid May till mid Oct. we will be in Jackson NH
Bill
billfitzgerald@msn.com


11/23/05: 1953 Thanksgiving Day game official program (from Peter's album)
1953 Thanksgiving Day Game Program


11/18/05:
Should have read Don Simpson's information before I got that shot. Don, you've got solutions to so many problems.

Saw Fred Lorance recently. He and Maryanne(Heffernan, class of '55) just returned from quite an extensive cruise that brought them from Spain to Greece to Italy and then some. Would you believe that they were in the library the other night looking for books on South America? That's their next destination.

Bette and I continue our Monday walks through Stoneham. Winter is fast approaching but we'll keep going. Let us know if you want to join us or at least, meet us for coffee at Hank's Bakery around 10:00 A.M.

Have a pleasant Thanksgiving, stay well, and remember to send us your news.
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


11/15/05:

Mary Lou--our flu shot role model!


11/15/05:
Just CLICK HERE to enjoy a Turkey Song from Don Simpson.


11/15/05:
We are settled in our Florida winter home, and enjoying the nice warm weather. We came down just in time for hurricane Wilma. We were pounded with drenching rain and high winds, for about 9 hours, but not strong enough to cause any damage. Thankfully, we were on the outskirts of that storm. We did however, pack some provisions, food, blankets pillows etc., in case we got the word to evacuate. Dick Steele, put me on the Florida reunion list. Sounds like fun.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


11/01/05:
Hi guys, Just a quick note that the Steele's will be heading south on the 4th hoping to find the house standing. Wilma went thru Lantana at a brisk clip causing a large amount of damage. From brief reports we came through with only a small amount of damage. Would like to develop a data base of classmates in florida either permanently or for the winter. I can be contacted directly by e-mail or here on this site. It would also be nice to try to set up another get together this year. All input would be nice. Have a nice winter.
Dick
rsedonahome@aol.com


10/11/05:
Upon receiving his latest email, I decided that Don has earned his own page. I want to share his enlightening (or not) messages with all of you. Just CLICK HERE to enjoy the Don Simpson Page. And keep clicking for updates.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


10/9/05:
Where did the summer go? Gosh it seem I just came back from Florida, and now we are heading back down there again on Tuesday! I often think of the great time us gals had at the luncheon in August. I am anxiously waiting to do it again next year.
Things are going much smoother this time around. If you read the following story, you will see that I had a little problem last fall, just days before leaving for Florida.

I hate SPIDERS ! ! ! The nurse in the emergency room gave me a bottle to give them a specimen. Well, I was all set to do the deed, when all of a sudden, there was this BIG ugly brown spider, going like sixty, down along the base board, heading in my direction, of course. Well, at that point, my first priority was to kill the darn thing, and forget about what I was supposed to with the bottle. If there had been a hidden camera, I could have been taken for an Irish step dancer. I started doing an Irish jig, right there in that bathroom, as the spider went behind the waste bucket, and then headed for where I was standing. Talk about over kill ! I mean, when I got through with him or her, there was nothing left. In retrospect, I wish I had the guts to put the darn thing in that little specimen jar, and gave them that for my sample! That would have gotten their attention. Imagine if I tried to explain all this to the nurse, with no proof. of any spider whatsoever. They would have taken me up to the psychiatric ward for sure, thinking I had a phobia or something. Truthfully I do, when it comes to spiders. Leave it to me, I always end up with a story somehow, even in the emergency room.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


10/8/05:
Hi Everyone: Just a year ago we were preparing for our fiftieth reunion. It was such fun that I wish we could repeat it all again this year! I happened upon a quote that expressed my sentiments and it is as follows:
"The companions of our childhood always possess a certain power over our minds which hardly any later friend can obtain." --Mary Shelley
I wish you all well and hope that you continue to correspond via email.
Love, MaryLou
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


8/29/05:
Sorry I had to miss the luncheon. Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo took pictures of all of you and I got to see them. I sure wanted to go but I got the opportunity to go on a trip to New York up in the Catskills for five days with my husband. It was so nice to get away. This trip is every year and it is always the second week in august.
I get to read all the comments on my daughters computer as I don't have one, just a e-mail machine. That thing that Janet wrote about me doing the make believe strip tease dance at my fiftieth wedding anniversary was because she opened her mouth and told the D.J. that I had done it at our reunion so he played it again. If there is anyone out there that didn't go to the reunion I don't do that as a career at my age, ha ha. I guess I still love to dance and hope I can keep it up till I'm ninety , God willing. By the way I am tap dancing in a talent show at our club in Florida next february. Hope I can make the next luncheon that you have. Sincerely, Florence
Florence (Hurlburt) Paonessa
flojoep@mymailstation.com


8/23/05:
For those of us who lived on or near Franklin St., headed towards Melrose, remember Weiss' Farm on Franklin St.? On those days when the wind was blowing in our direction, there was no mistaking that the farm was up and running. Carolyn (Muse) Sheridan, from the class of l955 sent me this link to the farm's website, actually it's more of Lawrence (Larry) Weiss' site, also of class of l955. It is www.gort.net. It is the history of the farm, plus some family stuff. I couldn't pull up everything with my webtv, but those of you with regular computers should be able to. Don't believe it is still a working farm, which is probably a good thing since, I think, it is across the street from the current high school. Liz
Liz Pulsifer Wyatt
nanaliz12@webtv.net


8/21/05:
Sorry to have missed your first luncheon, Dottie asked me to go with her but I was off to Az. for my son's retirement from USMC. I couldn't miss that, he got as high as Major and of course we were very proud and selfishly I was greatful that he retired in one piece. Next year I will make a point of going with Dottie if she offers again.. lol Keep writing, I enjoy all the comments and also those wonderful pictures.
Joan Spooner Ellis
ellisjoane@aol.com


8/19/05:
Was so sorry I missed the girls luncheon but will be there next summer. It was great to talk to you and catch up on all the news. It is amazing how the years seem to evaporate and we just take up where we left off. Love the web site, a great way to keep in touch. Nancy
Nancy MacCannell Lambright
bingogal54@sbcglobal.net


8/18/05:
Liz Pulsifer let me know that the form on this page was not working. Thanks, Liz. It's OK now.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


8/15/05:
CLICK HERE for pictures of our luncheon.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


8/13/05:
Our first annual gals luncheon certainly was a success. I counted 16 of us there. I think everyone will agree, that it was so nice just being together once again. We certainly shared lots of laughs, about way back when, and also about things going on with our present lives. I can hardly wait till next year. Thanks again.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEfWll@aol.com


8/13/05:
Thank you so much for yesterday. We've all had some interesting, not all perfect, but lives that made us into the strong women I think we've become. Had we known what was in store for us would we have said yes or no to the lives we've lived. I know I'd have said no to some of the things that happened in my life- you probably would have as well. I do believe that all things work for good to those that love God (and because I've become such a liberal- substitute any positive word you want for God). I know I've been able to help a few people who've suffered losses because words have a lot more validity when spoken by someone who has lived through loss herself. Anyway, enough serious stuff- it was wonderful- and I hope we do it many more times- I'd be happy to host it some time. Love, Joan.
Joan (Hanson) Campbell
campbell8361@yahoo.com


8/13/05:
Thank you for a wonderful day--it was great seeing everyone. The food was delicious and light for a summer gathering. Catching up with the girls was so much fun.
Donna (Eramo) Sullivan
Donna.Sullivan@NEMoves.com


8/13/05:
We all had such a great time at the girl's luncheon Friday. If you didn't make it this year, plan on coming next year. Hopefully it can become an annual event. It was great fun to see everyone.
Liz Pulsifer Wyatt
nanaliz12@webtv.net


8/8/05:
Well, Friday is the day of our first annual Class of '54 Girls' Luncheon, and we have a great group attending. It's still not too late to join us. Just email us for directions. For those who can't make it this year, we'll post pictures and comments that will make you put this event on your next summer's calendar.
Bette & Mary Lou
tsou@comcast.net


8/1/05:
Just spent a wonderful time reading all the emails. I haven't visited the web site for many months. I was so sorry to hear of Judy and Marilyn's passing. So many memories of the two of them. Thank you for keeping us updated on such things. If Bunny (Marilyn Greene) sees this, I would like to say hello and if you would pass a hello to Kay Hooper. I remember watching Howdy Dowdy with Kay and feeling so lucky to have her as a friend so I could watch her TV. Girlscouts was another wonderful memory. My best to all of you and hope you are all enjoying a healthy, happy summer.
Irene Doucette Rhyner
Irhyner@msn.com


7/23/05:
Jean, Though studies show that older men often revert to adolescent behavior, I hardly think such studies would apply to us. Remember, this is a girls only party.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


7/22/05:
Well now!!! Does your daughter know you are having a BIG party in their absences ???? HMMM, I’ve heard of kids doing that but not usually the parents!!! J Have fun.
Jean Smith Evans
sw500cc@mcttelecom.com


7/11/05:
On Sunday of our reunion weekend, we talked about the girls getting together once or twice a year for lunch and we all agreed it was a great idea. Our first lunch will be on Friday, August 12th at my daughter's house in Topsfield, right off Rt. I, where I'll be house-sitting. Spread the word to those who aren't online, and let us know if you can come.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


7/11/05:
Hello Everyone!!! Hope your summer is going well. I have enjoyed keeping tabs on the web site and all your comments. I actually sent a response to the pictures of Bette and Joan's granddaughters recital, but it was when the site wasn't working and somehow it got lost.

All is well here is North Carolina. I have enjoyed seeing some of you during our trip to Florida and others when we went to Maine and NH. One of my great pleasures is that our classmate and friend Kay Hooper Covell and her husband Dan, are moving to NC and will be living only about 35 miles away. They have made a couple of trips while their house is under construction, so I am happy that we will be able to visit occasionally. Kay and I were friends in school, girlscouts and even as young marrieds. That makes it doubly nice.

Thank you Bette, for keeping this web site going, so that we can at least seem closer through technology. Carole Carbone, I am sorry we didn't get a chance to stop by in Windham for our visit while we were in Maine. We had 3 granddaughters graduating and a new gr. grandson to meet. So time just went much faster than we anticipated. Before we knew it it was time to return to NC and still had not seen some dear friends that we wanted to see.

Stay well everyone, and Don Simpson, thank you for some of the prettiest pictures and corniest jokes. I enjoy them. Good health everyone, if you get to the Beaufort, NC area please give us a call.
Merrilyn (Bunnie Bacon) Greene
mgreene@e.c.rr.com


7/9/05:
Don & Jane, I loved the card. Thank you for staying in touch. We really enjoyed your visit. Have a great summer.
Carole Carbone Vail


7/1/05:

Happy 4th of July


Enjoy the attached file!
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


6/30/05: Had another nice meal with Dave Woodbury on our trip home. Unfortunately we didn't get to meet his wife Martha. She seems to be avoiding Daves old friends. Hopefully next fall he can trick her into coming. Dave was fine and our conversation centered on our classmates and old friends. Like all us almost old folks he has a problem or two but doesn't let it interfer with his day to day activities. He spenda a lot of time with his kids and grand kids and can't speak of them without a mile wide smile. Needless to say we look forward to sharing a meal on our next trip south.
Dick
rsedonahome@aol.com


6/20/05:
SHS Class of '54
tsou@comcast.net


6/19/05: Theresa and I had dinner with Jack Fleisher and his significant other Susan about a week ago and we had a marvelous time. It always amazes me that after a space of 50 years basically things seem to just flow into place and the comfort zone just slips back into place. Jack was in fine health enjoying his retirement and doing just what interests him. He follows the tennis scene here in Florida and devotes time to working in a tennis pro shop. Which he enjoys. He has family close by that also fills his time. We had a fine evening and plan to do it again next year. He is also very interested in trying to have a get together here in Florida.
Theresa and I plan to head for home tomorrow so will be incommunicado for a few days. Still feeling fine.
Dick
rsedonahome@aol.com


6/18/05: Judy Bertwell Viera died on June 12, 2005. Judy was a classmate from first grade, North School. One of my clearest memories of Judy was at a sixth grade dance in the school gym. Toward the end of the year, North School sixth graders were rewarded with a series of dances held last period on Thursdays. Judy was dancing with David Woodbury. She was so pretty and he was so handsome, and, unlike most of the rest of us, they were really dancing. We watched them with admiration and wonder.
See Judy's obituary in The Stoneham Sun.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


6/18/05: I was unaware that the form on this page was not working till Dick Steele emailed me. Thanks, Dick. I've solved the problem. The form is back in business.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


5/23/05: Hi All, Yes, we are back in town again. That is back in our other home in Nashua NH, where we will remain till about mid Oct. We left Florida a month ago, and with this cold wet weather we are having, I am asking myself why we left. I dragged all my Florida fashions back with me. You know, all the Capri pant sets in tropical prints etc. I thought I could continue wearing them through the fall. Well, I realize I would look pretty foolish wearing Hawaiian prints and such, when the temps are 40 something around here. So there they hang till it warms up. I must admit though, that Bill and I are glad to be back in New England once again, near our 2 daughters and 2 grandkids. This is HOME to us, and it always will be.

Just to keep you all up on some of our classmates, Irene Doucette Rhyner is back in her Wakefield NH home. Her husband is doing great after having heart surgery in Florida, and got the OK to return home here I keep in close touch with Merrilyn Bacon Greene, and they are very happy settling in their new N.C. home. They went to FL last winter and managed to visit with us. We had a great lunch with them. What fun, being with our class mates like that. I had lunch in Nashua with Liz Pulsifer a couple of weeks ago. We always enjoy getting together. Last evening, Florence Hurlburt Paonessa and her husband Joe celebrated their 50th Wedding anniversary at the Tewksbury Country Club. Well, I must tell you that I tipped off the disk jockey, about Flo doing her stripper rendition, at our SHS Class reunion. Perhaps some of you missed that. Sure enough, she did it again last night. I am going to have to ask her if she has been practicing, because it was even better! Once again, she took the floor and stole the show.

I hope all of you are happy and well, and have a wonderful summer. I would welcome hearing from any of you. Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


5/08/05: A memorable moment! Joan (Hanson) and I, two proud grandmothers, attend for the second year in a row our granddaughters' violin recital, and this time, thanks to the reunion, we recognize each other. Annie and Laura are both seven and in first grade.
 
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


3/26/05: Heaven Can’t Wait

An 85-year-old couple, having been married almost 60 years, died in a car crash. They had been in good health the last ten years, mainly due to her interest in health food and exercise.

When they reached the pearly gates, St. Peter took them to their mansion, which was decked out with a beautiful kitchen, master bath suite and Jacuzzi. As they "ooohed and aaahed," the old man asked Peter how much all this was going to cost.

"It's free," Peter replied, "this is Heaven."

Next, they went out back to see the championship golf course. They would have golfing privileges every day and each week the course changed to a new one representing the great golf courses on earth.

The old man asked, "What are the green fees?"

Peter's reply, "This is heaven, you play for free."

Next they went to the clubhouse and saw the lavish buffet lunch with the cuisines of the world laid out.

"How much to eat?" asked the old man.

"Don't you understand yet? This is heaven, it is free!" Peter replied.

"Well, where are the low fat and low cholesterol foods?" the old man asked timidly.

"That's the best part...you can eat as much as you like of whatever you like and you never get fat and you never get sick. This is Heaven."

The old man looked at his wife and said, "You and your bran muffins. I could have been here ten years ago!"
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


4/18/05: We have lost another classmate--Marilyn Mattsen. Though our Class of 1954 bonds are strong, our elemtary school bonds are even stronger. Marilyn was my classmate from first grade in North School. She was also one of the first classmates to respond enthusiastically to the announcement of our 50th reunion.
See Marilyn's obituary in The Stoneham Independent.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


3/28/05: Since we seem to be in Florida jokes, this is something that some wise guy sent us, just after we bought our home down here in Florida. The longer I live here, I realize there is a lot of truth to it.

Subject: A DIARY OF A NEW YORKER IN FLORIDA

April 30 – Florida is fantastic! Just moved here and love it already. Now this is a state that knows how to live!! Beautiful sunny days and warm balmy evenings. What a place! I watched the sunset from a park, lying on a blanket. It was beautiful. I have finally found my dream home. I love it here.

May 14th – Really heating up. Got to 89 today. Not a problem, since we live in an air conditioned home and drive an air conditioned car. What a pleasure to see the sun every day like this. Turning into a real sun worshiper.

June 5th – Had the yard landscaped with tropical plant today. Lots of palms and rocks. What a breeze to maintain. No more mowing for me. NO MORE SHOVELING SNOW EITHER! Another scorcher today, but I love it.

July 1st – The temperature has not gone below 90 all week, not even at night. Where are those lovely ocean breezed we heard about? It still seems hot to me. Getting use to it takes a while, I guess. I sure miss my old LP collection, though. I will have to remember not to leave anything made out of plastic, in my car. Got one of those fuzzy steering wheel covers. Cheaper than the burn ointment for my hands. I always wondered what burnt flesh smelled like.

July 15th – Fell asleep by the pool. Got 3rd degree burns over 60 % of my body. What a dumb thing to do. Missed 2 days of work. I learned my lesson though: got to respect the old sun, in a climate like this.

July 20th – I sure miss our cat Garfield.. He snuck into the car, when I left for work this morning. By the time I got out to the car to go to lunch, he had swollen up to the size of a shopping bag, and just as I opened the door he exploded all over the $2,000 worth of leather upholstery. I told the kids he ran away. Now the car smells like Kibbles and poop. No more pets in this heat.

July25th – Ocean breezes, my ass. HOT IS HOT! The home AC is on the fritz and the repairman charged me $200.00, just to drive by and tell me he needed to order parts. Things take forever here. The only hope for a break in this heat would be a hurricane.

July 30th – Been sleeping outside by the pool for 3 night now, swatting swamp mosquitoes that are as big as a B-52 bomber. $1,500 in darn house payments and we can not go outside. Why did I ever come here.?

Aug 4th – 100 dregrees! Finally got the air conditioner fixed today. It cost $500.00 and gets the temperature down to about 90. The electric bill is almost as much as the house payments. Two old ladies from Massachusetts almost ran me off the road today. I hate this state.

Aug 8th – If another jerk wise cracks, “Hot enough for you today?”, I’m going to sock him one. Damn heat. By the time I get to work, my radiator is boiling over, and clothes are soaking wet, and I smell like roasted Garfield!!!

Aug 10th – The weather report might as well be a damn recording: Hot and sunny. It has been too hot for too many blankety blank months now, and the weatherman says it might really warm up next week. And who ever came up with the statement, “It may be hot, but at least you do not have to shovel it, should die from heat exhaustion. Does it ever rain down here?

Aug. 14th Welcome to Hell!!! Temperature got to 102 today. Forgot to crack the car window and blew the windshield out of the Lincoln. The installer who came to fix it said, “Hot enough for you today?” My wife had to spent the $1,500 house payment to bail me out of jail.

Aug 30th – Worst day of the summer. I am not leaving the house. The monsoon rains finally came and all it did is to make it muggier than hell and it drove the roaches out of the ground. I was not aware they could fly! The Lincoldn is now floating somewhere in the Caribbean with its new $500.00 windshield. That does it; we are moving back to New York, where all you have to worry about is getting mugged. I hope this state breaks in half and floats down to Cuba.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


3/25/05:

What do Floridians Know of Massachusetts Winters?

As a trucker stops for a red light, a blonde catches up. She jumps out of her car, runs up to his truck, and knocks on the door. The trucker lowers the window, and she says, "Hi, my name is Jenny and you are losing some of your load."

The trucker ignores her and proceeds down the street. When the truck stops for another red light, the girl catches up again. She jumps out of her car, runs up and knocks on the door. Again, the trucker lowers the window. As if they've never spoken, the blonde says brightly, "Hi my name is Jenny, and you are losing some of your load!"

Shaking his head, the trucker ignores her again and continues down the street. At the third red light, the same thing happens again. All out of breath, the blonde gets out of her car, runs up, and knocks on the truck door. The trucker lowers the window. Again she says, "Hi, my name is Jenny, and you are losing some of your load!

When the light turns green the trucker revs up and races to the next light. When he stops this time, he hurriedly gets out of the truck, and runs back to the blonde. He knocks on her window, and as she lowers it, he says... "Hi, my name is Kevin, it's winter in Massachusetts and I'm driving the SALT TRUCK.
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


3/25/05: Looked at the web site today and what is all that white stuff in the yard. Our best and enjoy a great Easter.
Dick & Theresa
rsedonahome@aol.com


3/24/05: This is my front lawn. It looked like this in January and it looks like this now!.

Happy Spring & Happy Easter

Bette
tsou@comcast.net


3/15/05: Just to keep in touch --- Bill and I are enjoying the mild winter in FL. once again. We never saw a frost this time around, but when it goes below 70 down here, they all start complaining about the cold. I guess they do not know what cold really is. Us New Englanders must be pretty tough.
In January, we went over to the west coast to see my cousin Florence Hurlburt and Joe. She is keeping busy, and still dancing up a storm. Lloyd Thistle and his lovely wife Jean, came here to Avon Park, from their place in Melbourne, on the east coast. We had a nice day with them. Merrilyn Bacon and Carl, are heading to FL, from their NC home this Friday and they are hoping to visit with us while in the area. We are looking forward to that. I keep in touch with Irene Doucette all the time. They are alwaqys on the go.
Yes, I keep busy down here, with a choral group, plus I am in our church choir. Then there are the crafty things that I am always getting involved in, plus teaching a craft class now and then. Once a week I go to the school to spend an hour with a 14 year old girl. I am her mentor.
Our whole neighborhood has been watching 3 Horned owls, in a big old oak tree here. Their favorite nesting tree was taken down by one of the 2 hurricanes, so they settled in another one. What a treat to see those 3 fluffy white feathered creature developing. I did not see them yesterday, so I think they may have left the nest.
Hoping you are all well, and happy.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


2/21/05: Mary Lou, I was always convinced that it was you (and Bette) who organized "skip day". Who else could have pulled it off?
Concerning the picniks in Maine, I don't recall the vodka and orange juice occasion (perhaps for good reason) but I do (vaguely) recall our first Homecoming at Colby - grapefruit juice and vodka. I still have an aversion to grapefruit juice!!Like high school, those were the good old days. Hope all goes well. Best wishes, Dave
Dave Woodbury
dewoodbury@msn.com


2/14/05: A woman was leaving a convenience store with her morning coffee when she noticed a most unusual funeral procession approaching the nearby cemetery. A long black hearse was followed by a second long black hearse about 50 feet behind the first one. Behind the second hearse was a solitary woman walking a pit bull on a leash. Behind her, a short distance back, were about 200 women walking single file. The woman was so curious that she respectfully approached the woman walking the dog and said, I am so sorry for your loss, and I know now is a bad time to disturb you, but I have never seen a funeral like this. Whose funeral is it?
My husband's.
What happened to him?
My dog attacked and killed him.
Well, who is in the second hearse?
My mother-in- law. She was trying to help my husband when the dog turned on her.
A poignant and thoughtful moment of silence passed between the two women.
Can I borrow the dog?
Get in line.

A Woman's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
I pray for:
Wisdom, To understand a man.
Love, To forgive him and;
Patience, For his moods.
Because, Lord, if I pray for Strength
I'll just beat him to death.
Steve Haseltine
sandlha@comcast.net


2/8/05: Thanks, Frank, for the lovely comments. However, who is Paul? I am married to Jack. This is how rumors start! Only kidding, Frank! Jack does have a younger brother named Paul and therin lies the confusion. Jack wants to know if being Jack and not Paul changes his status as a beautiful person!!!!

For all who do not live in Stoneham, I want you to know that Frank is quite a political activist. If there's a meeting involving the town, you can be certain he will be there. Also, you can be certain that he has an opinion on most issues and he is willing to share his thoughts with all who are present. To be sure, his ideas are usually "on the mark" and worth hearing/considering.

I do remember "crazy day" and "skip" day. As a senior, I remember being called to the office and accused of being the organizer of "skip" day. I remember being outraged and would not take the blame. So whoever planned it, it's time to confess. As for liquor when we were in high school, the only place I had any was at home. My grandfather made wine in our cellar! Whenever I went off to college I was horrified when I saw how liquor flowed like water. I remember going to my first "picnic" where only vodka and orange juice was served. I was anxiously awaiting the arrival of food. Of course, that never happened. David Woodbury and Bette must certainly remember those days in the wilds of Maine.

Dick and Theresa have propsed an interesting plan for August or September. I'm certain that we would go. Maybe some of you who live a great distance away are planning to visit here at that time. As I recall, a boat ride on the Mount Washington originates in Wolfboro,NH. That's about a 90 minute ride from Stoneham. The area is beautiful and there are numerous places to stay.

Everyone take care and think of us as we prepare for another snow storm.
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


2/1/05: Hello to all once again. Now that Bette (for decades I have been spelling your name with a y).. has made me a very proud member of the Class of '54 I would enjoy , once in a while, to send you 'tidbit' from the 'old sod'.. and the 'real fun' and 'clean fun' all of you participated in during those great days...and to reminisce (did I spell that right?) . So....I have a question for all of you.. Did any of you ever participate in what we called around 1955 or 56 .. 'Crazy Day'.. I remember my sister Marie and her class used to get 'expelled' for a week every year after those daring moments by Mr. Nadeau and Mr. Horton.. Do you have any pictures you could post ? Do all of you remember that in order to buy a beer , if you lived in Stoneham, you either had to leave town, or get it by mail order ? We were as dry as the Sahara back then !...( But we managed, right?).. I still live in town with Mary Lou and Paul Bracciotti, and I am convinced that couple is going to sponsor your 100th Reunion! You just have to 'feel good' when you are around them ! Beautiful people... And uh, Bette - Has that handsome brother Jack made Hollywood yet? I know he has done some great acting professionally....But it all started when he too, as yourself was a Park Instructor as yourself. One Summer day, he loaded 6 of us in his car to play A.P. Rounds on the top of that legal Ski Slope known as Broadway which heads 'straight down' to Main Street !... After the game, 'Jackie' pretended to 'lose his breaks' and started screaming as our 'bullet' headed down to end our Earthly dreams of playing for the Red Sox and Fenway Fame !! It's amazing how religious you can get real quick." Hail Mary Full of Grace, give this scene a whole new face !" We were all crying and screaming.. when 'suddenly' our future Thespian driver 'found' his 'peddle' about 30 feet from 'The Great Bounce into Heaven'..How did you put up with him Bette Flynn. How?...Take care all... Be Well... Frank !
Frank 'Lefty' Pignone
fpignonejr@comcast.net


1/31/05: So sorry that we couldn't get to Carole and Tom's for the get together but we had other plans further south that week end. Will be ready if it gets done again. I've had some nice communication with Dave Woodbury and Tom Walsh. I know that the ice isn't out yet but would there be any interest to look into a Dinner Dance on the Mount Washington on Lake Winnepsauke some time in August or September? Perhaps we can get a little imput from a wide variety of the class.
Dick Steele
rsedonahome@aol.com


1/16/05: For those of you that could not make it to the mini Florida reunion this past Sat., you missed a very enjoyable day. Because of distance and other commitments, not all us Floridians or snow birds could attend. Those that were there, were Jane and Don Simpson, Lloyd Thistle and his wife Jean, and of course Bill and I. Carole and Tom served us a lovely lunch, showed us around their lovely new home, and we simple sat around all afternoon and enjoyed each other. Yes, there were a few laughs, as you can imagine. The 8 of us went to a nice Italian restaurant for dinner. Lots of fun. Hope we can do it again, before we all head back to New England in the spring.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


1/10/05: Lefty Pignone's comments about our class reminded me of an email I got from my brother Jack just about the time of our reunion. He wrote: "I'm following the progress of your reunion on the website. I think that I'm more familiar with people in your class than in my own. I never realized just how many role models I siphoned off from your class, and how much I vicariously lived through so many of their escapades."
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


1/9/05: Happy New Year to all my classmates. Hope the Holidays were peaceful and joyous for you and your families. I still think with fondness of the great time we had when we got together in Oct. It has been nice keeping in touch with many of you since. SHS was a fun time for the class on 1954. I agree with Frank Pignone, we are one of those special classes and I was touched by the fact that even after the 50 years we had only changed for the better. In spirit are still very much the same. (We didn't look so bad either). Good Health to all of you, hope we can do it again someday. Thank you Bette for this website. Merrilyn (Bunnie Bacon) Greene
Merrilyn Bacon Greene
mgreene1@ec.rr.com


1/9/05: Thanks for the memory, Lefty. I haven't been reminded of my park instructor days for a long time. You were one of the regulars, a good-natured and hopeful presence, every day waiting patiently with me for the new batch of supplies to arrive. And, for your kind comments about our class, I vote for you to be made an honorary member of the SHS Class of 1954.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


1/9/05: I wasn't in your class ..I was in the class of 1961. I moved to Stoneham in the year your wonderful class graduated ...1954. I wanted to write to you because I know many of you and am so happy you worked this through and had such a wonderful time...The site is wonderful and it is so great sitting here listening to this great music as well !..I don't think any of your class will ever be 'old'...Too much spirit.. To see Bette Flynn in those pictures brings back so many memories as she was one of my Park Instructors when I first moved to Stoneham on Bonad Road and started my first Summer with that great smile of Betty's...and she still has it.. She looks like she is still a teenager !..as so many of you do !..Many people say "I wish I was younger"...In your case.. I will say " I wish I was older !"..So I could have been a member of your class !...Great guys and great looking women !..Anyhow..I just wanted to say 'Good Luck'...and I wish you all much peace, health and lo!ve in the New Year ahead...God Bless all of you..Be Well...A fellow alumni..Frank "Lefty" Pignone - Stoneham, Mass.
Frank "Lefty" Pignone
fpignonejr@comcast.net


2004 Comments

TOP


12/31/04: Greetings to all: Received the reunion photo in the Christmas card. It was a great reunion and many thanks for the hard word done by all. Card and photo were a nice touch. Regards, Jack Dirkman
Jack Dirkman
hisandherre@adelphia.net


12/29/04: Is there anyone out there interested in coming to Vero Beach Jan.14th for a get together? Let me know before Jan 5th so I can get the word out. We leave here on Jan 6th for all the warm sun. Happy New Year to all. We will have a quiet one since it is hard to top our New Year's eve on Wakiki Beach two years ago.
Carole
Carole.Vail@adelphia.net


12/29/04: Just had to wish you all a very Happy New Year.
Joan Spooner Ellis
ellisjoane@aol.com


12/27/04: What are we doing New Year's Eve? We are going to a family wedding in Amherst, MA. Our neice is getting married and the reception is at The Lord Jeff in Amherst. Since the wedding is at 6:30 Friday evening, with the reception following, all of our immediate family will be spending the night at the Lord Jeff and attending a New Year's Day brunch on Saturday morning.
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org


12/27/04: Betty, you asked what we were doing on New Years Eve. Probably going to bed early, after packing our bags to return to Florida the next day. Can not take the cold climate any more. We came back home for 3 weeks only. Enough time to see most everyone, and go to a big family gathering. We had a wonderful Christmas day with our 2 daughters, and of course, seeing our 2 grand kids with their new toys.
Looking forward to the Class of 54 mini reunion. I have not heard of a firm date yet though. Have they decided on that yet?
Happy New Year and good health to all of you.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


12/26/04: "What are you doing New Year's, New Year's Eve?" Remember that song? Charlie and I are doing what we've done for 14 years, ever since our first grandchild, Molly, was born. We're babysitting. Our daughters and their husbands go out to dinner together and leave their kids with us--all night. Before that, Charlie and I would have a quiet dinner together, baked stuffed lobster and champagne, then, with another glass of champagne, watch the ball go down in Times Square, and we've tried to fit that tradition in with the babysitting. Last year, though, with 8 grandchildren, we didn't get to eat our dinner and drink our champagne till the next night. I'd love to hear what others are doing.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


12/26/04: May you all enjoy good health, happiness, and peace in the year ahead.
Jack and Mary Lou Bracciotti
marylou@noblenet.org


12/20/04: It was a true personal disappointment not to be able to participate in our 50th reunion with all of you. Based on the after action photos and comments, however, it must have been a wonderful event. My wish to each of you is that you enjoy a very Merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years. God Bless America!!
Dave Woodbury
dewoodbury@msn.com


12/18/04:
Bette
tsou@comcast.net


12/13/04: OK, How does the third weekend of Jan sound to everyone who is interested in getting together in Vero Beach? It does not have to be a weekend. I am open to suggestions. We will be back in Vero about Jan, 8th. My phone there is 774-564-0991 Cell 270-671-7305. You can e-mail here or on my site until Jan 05 05. If I hear from a few we can set a definate date before the holiday so we can all make plans. This will be very low key and casual. We have golf, a bit more expense than Stoneham but fun. We have a pool, sometime Polo and the ocean is only 15 min away. Let me hear from you. Carole Carole Carbone Vail
Carole.Vail@adelphia.net


12/12/04: We are back in Nashua, for our Christmas stay. Great to see family and friends once again.
I wanted to let you folks know that last Sunday, we decided to check out the newly re-opened Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven FL. It had been closed for nearly 2 years. We had a very enjoyable day there. I would recommend it, if you are looking for a quieter and less expensive, place than the Disney Parks. It used to be geared for the older crowd, but they now have 4 roller coasters, with one just for the little ones. There are other rides for the younger set also. One of the larger roller coasters has been named The Hurricane, as it, along with other things there, received damage from the hurricane, in Sept. The water ski/boat show is as good as ever. The ice skating show is an all Christmas theme now, but will change, after the holidays. I spent some time in the butterfly house, and ended up with several wonderful shots of the various species. Of course we never fail to stroll through the gardens, as they have flowers, that are so unfamiliar to us. Such a joy to walk among them. While crossing a foot bridge, I looked across the small pond, and spotted an alligator on the lawn, not far from the gazebo where hundreds of weddings take place every year. (that could surely upstage a wedding) I just had to head over there, to see if I could get a good shot of it. I got about 30 feet from it, and he got spooked, and took 2 or 3 steps and sled right into the water. Oh well, I can’t win them all I guess.
What is the latest on our Florida reunion? Anything definite plans been made? Others have been writing me and asking. So if anyone knows anything, let us hear about it. Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season, and a Happy New Year too.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
EFWLL@ aol.com


12/12/04: Hi folks - well I was taken. Several of you have reported that the email is a well known hoax! I reference the following (from my friend Brian): According to Symantec, it's a hoax! http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/jesus-hoax.html
Don
irexdon@msn.com


12/11/04: To Don Simpson and others concerned about the cell phone - tellemarketers e-mail, In this mornings Manchester Union Leader, an article calling this e-mail a "mysterious myth". It appears this is one of those urban legends that pops up periodically to scare people on various subjects. A great website to check on these kinds of e-mails is TruthorFiction.com. There are other websites also, but this is the one I usually check.
Liz Pulsifer Wyatt
nanaliz12@webtv.net


12/06/04: A directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published for all consumers to have access to. This will open the doors for solicitors to call you on your cell phones, using up precious minutes that we pay lots of money for.

The Federal Trade Commission has set up a "do not call" list. It is called a cell phone registry. To be included on the "do not call" list, you must call from the number you wish to register. The number is 1-888-382-1222 OR you can go to their web site at http://www.donotcall.gov/ and add your number to the do not call list.

Give this to friends who have cell phones.
Jane and Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com


11/26/04: Still in central Florida, but will be returning to our Nashua NH home, on Dec. 9th, to be with the kids and grand kids for Christmas. Thanks Mary Lou, for the warning about the New England weather. Yes, we heard about the snow, last week. This is our first Thanksgiving, down here, and the only complaint I have about Florida is that it just does not feel like Thanksgiving, when it is 80 degrees, and flowers everywhere. I planted poppies a few weeks ago, and they are coming up like crazy. I pruned my rose bush down to just sticks, in October, and there a loads of buds now, just waiting to bloom. I had to go out and buy a poinsettia plant, and some Christmas colored candles to remind me, that it is that time of year. It is never dull around here, since we live in the country part of Florida. Yes, there are lots of pine trees but next to them will be palms. Still seems odd to me, somehow.

A couple of weeks ago, Bill and I went to a swamp to see what kinds of wild life we could find, before the cooler weather sets in. They all seem to disappear if the temperature goes below 70. Well anyhow, I thought I saw an eye staring at me, at the edge of the water hole. Finally decided the eye was attached to an alligator! Out came my new digital camera, and when I tried to find it in that tiny one inch window, it looked like nothing. Well, when Bill printed it out. Holy cow. It was HUGE ! The other day, we were riding around in our golf cart. A fun thing to have, even though we are not golfers. Well, a Florida Black Snake came off the grass and started to cross the street, right in front of us. It had to be at least 4 feet long. We stopped, and the snake stopped, and it made an about face and went back into the yard that it came from. So you see, it is never dull around here. I just hope we get out of here alive. So goes life in the Sunshine State.

Hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving Day.
Janet (LeBlanc) DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com


11/23/04: 1953 Thanksgiving Day game official program (from Peter's album)


 
11/25/04: Hope You are not tired from all that snow, and enjoy your Thanksgiving. We are with our son in Tampa but miss all of the rest of our family back in Maine. We will be back next week to gear up for a family Christmas. Have safe and happy holidays,full of joy and peace. Think reunion in Florida in Jan. Happy memories to all.
Carole Carbone Vail
Carole.vail@Adelphia.net
 
11/24/04: Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends!!!!!!!

A young man named John received a parrot as a gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music and anything else he could think of to "clean up" the bird's vocabulary. Finally, John was fed up and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot and the parrot got angrier and even ruder. John, in desperation, threw up his hand, grabbed the bird and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard for over a minute. Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said,

"I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior." John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird continued, "May I ask what the turkey did?"

HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Jane and Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com
 
11/23/04: Here's hoping that you are all more prepared for the holidays than I am. Anyhow, for you folks down south or on the west coast, we've already shoveled snow! That was before we raked up all the leaves. So now we're raking and bagging soggy, muddy leaves. I know this must make you yearn to be back in New England. I'm writing to wish you a happy Thanksgiving and to let you know that I have fond memories of our weekend together. I think of the fun that we had and the stories that we shared.
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.net
 
11/08/04: Well, it's almost a month since our get together. Gordon and I had such a good time on the 9th. Sorry we couldn't make it to the other activities. We are finally settled here in Florida and enjoying it very much. Above and beyond the good time we had, we want to especially thank the committee for ALL they did to make it such a wonderful week-end for so many. What a great job and Betty if you want to continue the emailing "til you die" as you put it, I'm with you. I will keep checking the site for new info. Again, thanks so much for everything. PS Sorry I didn't say good-bye to so many especially, you Peggy.
Irene Doucette Rhyner
Irhyner@msn.com
 
11/03/04: I am settled in Avon Park Florida now, for the cold months, and keeping in touch with several of you. Such a joy. Still filled with wonderful memories of the reunion. Al Barker, I enjoyed the list you just submitted to the web site. Also in thinking back at talking to you, at the end of the evening, at Bear Hill, I realized something. Over the years us folks lost a few things, such as hair, teeth, figures, shyness (as with myself). And then again, we have gained some things such as, a few pounds, wrinkles, but more confidence. As with you Al, you have gained a terrific sense of humor. Keep it up.
Janet LeBlanc DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com
 
11/03/04: To The Greatest Reunion Committe of 1954--We were so pleased with all the events that took place over the weekend. It was the best planned event we have been to for some time. My Husband was having intrepidations because he did not know anyone, but he had to admit he did not feel like a stranger in the crowd. We all talked to each other and had a good time remembering all the good times we had in the past, especially all the good food and the hospitality shown by the hostesses opening their homes to each and everyone.
Chuck & Judy Struble
11911 66th St. N.
Largo,Fl. 33773
Anyone in the area of Largo stop in and give us a Hello. THANKS AGAIN for such a good time.
Judyowen Struble B
cj30p@innet.com
 
11/01/04: What a great party! So glad Carl and I were able to come. It was great seeing everyone after all those years. All of you on the committee and your wives and husbands are to be congratulated for a great job...well done. I especially like Al Barkers "motto to live by". The pictures are great and even printable. Thanks again.....Judy
Judy Griffin Fuller
fulloon@verizon.net
 
10/30/04: Read this! "i didnt know I was this old till today"
Al Barker
agbarker@aol.com
 
10/26/04: "What a great reunion- I'm still trying to settle down from the good time that I had! Thanks Again- Bea "
Bea Viera Wheaton
beawheaton@comcast.net
 
10/26/04: It took me all this time to find this site. I knew that many must have written to say what a great time we all had,even spouses. My husband's name by the way is not Paul but Tom. We are in Vero Beach and would love to host a reunion, maybe late Jan or Feb. Dick can we ask for any interested parties? Reading the comments I feel that I missed so much because there were to many to touch base with. I only remember one trip to the spa, I guess I was allways on a field or court. Hi to anyone I missed. Not Al or Steve. Who could miss them. Carole
Carole Carbone Vail
carole.vail@adelphia.net
 
10/26/04: Oh Jane, I was telling Carl about us all going to the Spa for musties, listening to the juke box with our friends all for about 10 cents if my memory serves me. Those are some of my fondest after school memories. Also, the movies on Saturdays for 25 cents. Boy, are we showing our ages. Love Bunnie
Merrilyn Bacon Greene
mgreene1@ec.rr.com
 
10/26/04: The Musty is made up of the following: 1/3 of a glass with 1 vanilla syrup, 1 strawbury syrup, 1 pineapple syrup and a little milk. Fill the rest of the glass with club soda.
Maryann and Fred Lorance
mimihrh106@aol.com
 
10/25/04: Grand, super, wonderful reunion, with lots of good memories !!!! Does anyone remember going to the Stoneham Spa in the square after school, and drinking a "musty"? Do you know how it was made?It would be fun to make one now! Happy Holidays to everyone.
Jane Flor Simpson
irexdon@msn.com
 
10/25/04: First I want to tell everyone that I don't have a computer. I have a e-mail machine that I can e-mail out to everyone and also receive from. I can not get pictures, attachments, etc. just e-mail and forward e-mail. It's great for me and I can take it back and forth to Florida for the winter. That e-mail address that is at the botton of my last e-mail is my sons computer e-mail address. I can see everything that everyone sends in because my son lives in the upstairs appartment of my house. So if anyone wants to e-mail me in the future here is my e-mail address: flojoep@mymailstation .com ---Enjoying the pictures and e-mail.
Florence Hurlburt Paonessa
flojoep@mymailstation.com
 
10/23/04: The committee did a terrific job. I don't think anything could have been better. Thanks go to Mary Lou and Bette for opening their homes to us. It was so good to see old friends again.
Nancy MacCannell Lambright
bingogal54@aol.com
 
10/23/04: Mary Lou, Thank you for your comments and all that you and the committee did to make our reunion so special. I literally had not seen many of my classmates for 50 years and some others for more than 40. My husband Carl, really deserved the credit for our coming all the way from NC. He kept encouraging me and I kept saying that no one would even remember me. At any rate, thanks to him and to the wonderful work of you and the reunion committee, it was a most memorable time for me and Carl and I are still talking about it two weeks later. I hadn't seen some of my dear friends for so long, because I have lived out of State and had lost touch. Thank you for the opportunity. If you plan one in Fla. count us in. Oh and Mary Lou, thank you for opening up your lovely home for us all to enjoy.
Merrilyn Bacon Greene
mgreene1@ec.rr.com
 
10/23/04: Two weeks have passed since we had our reunion and I'm still thinking about how pleasurable it was to spend time with so many classmates. The fifty years of life's experiences eliminated any barriers that might have existed in our youth. We were truly able to enjoy one another at a different level. Perhaps that is one of the joys of aging! For those who were unable to be with us, I want you to know that you were missed. For each of you who attended, I want you to know how much it meant to me to be able to renew our friendship. Let's do it again while we're able. The thoughts of meeting in Florida sounds great.
As for the reunion committee, we were pleased to be able to carry out this weekend celebration. Ed,Bill,and Dick have patient, understanding wives who happily went along with our planning. Thanks to Elizabeth, Maureen, and Theresa for their help. Bette and I would be remiss if we didn't thank our husbands, Jack and Charlie, for encouraging us and helping us to entertain our friends. They're great guys!
Keep in touch. It's always fun to read your comments. Stay well.
Mary Lou
marylou@noblenet.org
 
10/16/04: Florence, I wish we had a picture of you dancing at our reunion. You were wonderful, inspiring many others to join you on the dance floor.
If anyone has a picture of Florence dancing, please send it.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net
 
10/20/04: Hi Bette, I want to say what a good job you and Bill, Dick, Mary Lou and Ed did for our 50th reunion. I sure had a great time seeing everyone. It was nice having Jan Le Blanc DeFeo (my first cousin) Irene Douctte Rhyner, Bea Viera, Bob Breagy and Ed Paquette sitting with Joe and myself. As you could see I still love to dance. I should have brought my tap shoes. How that number all came about is, I was up there doing the electric slide waiting for some of you to come up and join me. After a few turns the D.J. said " hold it, I have a number just for you. Hope we can keep in touch with each other and that we can meet again in the years to come. Any one is wecome to e-mail me. Keep on writing on the web site everyone. Looking forward to getting the picture of all of us. Love Florence Hurlburt Paonessa PS-Maybe we can have a practice reunion in Florida one of these days...
Florence Hurlburt Paonessa
paonessa@comcast.net
 
10/19/04: Just arrived home on Sunday, 10/17, after a motor trip of 3959 miles! What a fabulous party! It was the absolute highlight of the whole journey. Mary Lou, Bette, Ed, Dick, Bill, you planned and carried out a weekend to savor until the next reunion. I reconnected with so many friends it was an overdose of real joy. Let's do it again! PS-Maybe we can have a practice reunion in Florida one of these days...
Jack Fleisher
nhampsha@cfl.rr.com
 
10/18/04: I WANT TO EXPRESS MY THANKS TO THE REUNION COMMITTEE ,IT WAS AN EXCEPTIONAL EVENT,AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT ONE.HOPE TO SEE MANY OF YOU THIS WINTER IN FLORIDA
Lloyd Thistle
sticknhoney@aol.com
 
10/17/04: As Theresa and I sit here reflecting on our recent reunion we would like to offer our special thanks to the committee and a couple great husbands for all their hard work making this such a special weekend. What a great time seeing so many old friends after so many years and the stories they had to tell. I know we don't need to be reminded how fast these 50 years have flown but so much was done by our classmates. Stories of good times, bad times and in-between times. So many great smiles but none more than Charlie Foley who was able to join us despite our having sent him to the great beyond. He told me he and his wife had been married for 46 years and yes it seemed that everyday he was in heaven. What a guy. Steve Haseltine never stopped smiling even on the golf course. The smile that has survived the years still belongs to Martha Darling. One wonders if she has ever been grouchy in 50 years. The Marble Street area was represented by so many friends from so long ago. Norman Donald, John Dirkman, Judy Griffen, Eddie Paquette, Dan Covell and if you stretch the area a little Fred Lorance and Nancy Jenkins. Oh the memories. I know that we will never meet for another 50ith but lets keep the spirit going and talk (e-mail, visit or call) each other more often. We are a pretty friendly crowd. If anyone is in the West Palm Beach area in the winter or Gilford, NH area in the summer please make it a point to stop in and say hello. We would love to see you. Thanks for a great weekend.
Dick Steele
rsedonahome@aol.com
 
10/16/04: A SMASHING SUCCESS!!!!
What a wonderful time - exceeded all expectations. Thank you so much Bette, Mary Lou, Bill, Dick and Ed for all you did to make our 50th such a memorable event. Friday at Mary Lou's and Sunday at Bette's couldn't have been nicer, and of course the main event. The joy of seeing old friends and making new ones (spouses), sharing memories and laughs will remain with me forever. I think the experience brought us even closer than we were in 1954. I thought of so many dear friends on the long drive home. I pray we all stay well till we meet again.
Ed Paquette
epaquette@tampabay.rr.com
 
10/16/04: Motto to live by-- "Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, champagne in one hand, strawberries in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO - what a ride!"
Al Barker
agbarker@aol.com

Al & old friends--still dancing after all these years
 
10/16/04: Great reunion weekend! You, and the other committee members are to be commended. Jane and I enjoyed being with and talking to our classmates once again. Hope to see you again.
PS - I think this attachment will be enjoyed by all.
Don Simpson
irexdon@msn.com
 
10/14/04: Hi Everyone. BRAVO to you all, What a Great Reunion you put together. I thank you for all your effort. If you ever decide to put another reunion together, Please let me know what I can do to assist. Thanks, once again. Love & Peace to you all.
Bob Breagy
BreagyBob@aol.com
 
10/14/04: Dottie, I've added a "reunion pics" and a "post-reunion comments" link on the website. They both should be accessible via this link: https://www.tsou.org/reunion.html. I've only just started posting the photos. I'm acquiring lots more.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net
 
10/14/04: Hi, Bette...Please let me add my thanks to you and the committee for opening houses and being so welcoming. It was a grand three days. It's hard to get back to "life as we know it." I have heard from a couple of folks that there are pictures on the web site, but I can't seem to find them. I can get onto the site (www.tsou.org/reunion.html) but after that it looks like the same information as before the reunion. Can you help?
Dottie
daw636@aol.com
 
10/14/04: Hi to All of the reunion committee and many classmates. We arrived back in NC this morning, so it's the first opportunity for me to say what a wonderful experience SHS 50th reunion was for me and for Carl. We very much enjoyed being part of such a special time. I feel so fortunate to have been reunited with wonderful friends. It is a goal to keep the connection there in the time to come. Hope we can do it again. (Watch out golfers, my game is improving). Much love and affection to all of you and thanks for a lovely weekend. Merrilyn (Bunnie Bacon) and Carlton Greene
Merrilyn Bacon
mgreene1@e.c.r.r.com
 
10/14/04: Thanks to both of you for the wonderful reunion weekend. It was very well-planned and very enjoyable and I left with the feeling that most of us have grown up very well and changed for the better. I'm sorry that we couldn't make it to Bette's house for breakfast but we did spend an enjoyable day with our grandkids in Newton, an important day since they will be moving to Palo Alto next month. I hope you are both enjoying a well-deserved rest!
Carol
carol.einaudi@finnegan.com
 
10/12/04: Thanks, Janet. It was all of us together that made our 50th reunion so wonderful.
Bette
tsou@comcast.net
 
10/12/04: Hi Betty. I just had to write and send a big THANK YOU to you and the others on the committee. Gosh, I never had such a great time, and I am sure everyone feels the same. You folks are the ones that made it such a wonderful success.
Janet LeBlanc DeFeo
DEFWLL@aol.com
 
10/12/04: We want to thank Marylou and Bette for opening their beautiful homes to the group, it made the weekend that much nicer. Congratulations to the commitee for putting together a weekend to remember. Look forward to seeing everyone again at an informal or formal gathering. For any golfers out there if you play with Ed don't wear blue.
Maryann and Fred Lorance
mimihrh106@aol.com
 
10/12/04: Had such a great time Friday night at the reunion buffet at Mary Lou's. Thanks Mary Lou for opening your home to all of us, and for the hours you spent toiling over a hot stove preparing that wonderful food. I thought as a group, we all have grown older so gracefully. Hope we don't have to wait another 50 years to get together again. It was so wonderful to see so many of you again. Former neighbors like Mary Lou Conroy, Steve Haseltine and Ed Thompson. We all lived just a stone's throw from Melrose. Seeing "Bunny" Bacon, Jean Smith, Bob Breagy and so many others. Joan Hanson and Bill Fitzgerald from the East School. A few of us spent some time talking with Charlie Wayman. I must admit I really didn't know him in high school, but talking with him the other night, he had a very different life in high school then the rest of us did. Was very moved by his story. "Hi" to Marilyn Mattsen and Loretta McCarthy.
Liz Pulsifer Wyatt
nanaliz12@webtv.net
 
10/11/04: Hey gang, that was a most wonderful weekend... Many thanks to the comm. More later, I'm sure.
Carole Carbone Vail
carole.vail@adelphia.net
 
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