Update 7-5-05
Okay,
Some teacher invitations went out, by phone from helpful Terri Donohue Calamari, and by e-mail from me. And some responses came in. In the order received:
From Helen David: This is Mrs. David, and I thank you for your invitation to your reunion. However, at the time of your party, we will be in northern Europe, escaping from the three-digit temperatures of the Sonoran Desert of Arizona.
After 51 years of living in the shadow of South High School, and after 10 years of commuting between Valley Stream and Sun City West (in the northwest valley of the Phoenix area), we have made this our permanent home and only home. Unfortunately, it was just in time to miss you.
Pasted on the wall, in front of me, is a photograph of South High School which Mr. Baker laminated for me. This photograph was made before the addition of the full first floor, when one of the entrances to the ground floor library was directly from the campus. It is possible that you were all in the junior high school division at that time.
Best wishes to you all (and I did bring your yearbook with me). And thank you again.
[Rich -- I asked Helen David if I could pass this letter onto the class, and add her to our weekly mailing list. At the same time, I also told her about our website. She wrote back:
"Yes, definitely, to both. You have a terrific website, which has already given me an hour of pleasure. I shall return to it shortly, and enjoy it some more.
Although it is 20 years since I retired from South High School, my heart will always be with it, and the whole bunch of you when you were part of the student body."]
From Bernie O'Brien: Thank you very much for your kind invite to your 40th reunion (it can't be that long, can it?) I plan to attend on Friday night to see you wonderful people. They were some of the best days of my life, back at South High School with all of you, and it will be wonderful to see you all again and share some "tall-tales." You are so very thoughtful to remember the "young old-guys." Unfortunately, my "bride" has to baby-sit -- we now have 22 grandchildren, so we are on "duty" quite often. With love and God's blessings for all of you.
From Hy Rosov: Reva and I are most honored to have received your thoughtful invitation. The Class of '65 was one of my favorites, and I would love to see you all again. Among the people I miss are: Fran Bellucci, Jerry Bittman, Barbara Blitfeld, Ed Bonlarron, Joan Bouza, Bill Brady, Barbara Brill, Ken Brown, Tom Calise, Barry Cohen, Tom Connelly, Larry Coleman, Terri Donohue, Ellen Epstein, Carol Ewig, Alan Feldman, Linda Felton, Emily Ferber, Judy Fingerhut, Bob Fiveson, Mike Florio, Roberta Freeman, Diane Fruzetti, Zelda Genin, Andrea Gladstone, Marc Goldberg, John Hubbard, Beverly Hendreich, Kathy Hyland, Antonette Joerger, Mark Jonas, Stu Kandel, Greg Kaplan, Jimmy Karl, Barnet Kellman, Jimmy Lachere, Laura Littner, Rich Lobell, Bea Massa, Valerie Nelson, The Nudelman triplets, Dennis Pizzimenti, Pete Rosen, Jane Ruzow, Bernie Scheidt, Danny Stellabotte, Tom Velardi, Paul Zegler, and Barnet Zinger.
How many of the gang I listed will be at the reunion? I would love to have the addresses or E-mail addresses of all of the above, if you have them.
Reva will be having surgery in late July, with a long recuperative time to follow. At this point in time, I doubt that I will be able to make it; however, if enough people I'd like to see sign up, I will make a sincere effort to be there Saturday night. Meanwhile, please send my most heartfelt greetings to one of South's greatest classes, and I wish all a wonderful reunion -- that is if you still recognize one another.
Please let me know who will be attending so I can send them a personal message of my recollections.
From Bill Linkner: As I mentioned to Ira Mitzner, we just returned from Long Island this week. We have to be back up there for a few days in late July and back on Hilton Head August 4th. There is no way we could return again on the 6th. As I also told Ira, please say "Hi" to everyone. Those were the best teaching years of my life.
From Booker Gibson: Please pass this along to Paul Zegler: I'll never forget your father, who brought his bassoon to my junior high music class (or classes). What a treat that was, to have someone from the New York Philharmonic in our room. Everything went so well as he demonstrated the complicated instrument, but then he took out some music for me to accompany him on a short piece. He was so relaxed that I played it without fainting. The South High band director Bob Leist knew him as "Manny," but I was too young to stretch it that far. Paul, he was a great person.
From someone outside our class who reads these updates: That Paul Zegler piece was beautiful. What a story.
From Linda Tobin Kettering '69, who introduced Booker Gibson at the South High awards this year and presented the Vince Tampio award: Although my daughter's birthday is August 5th, I will try to come to your reunion. I'll let you know as soon as possible if I can definitely make it. And yes, it will be good to finally meet many of you.
From Robert Fiveson: The complaints about The Island being unethically adapted from Clonus are actually gathering a head of steam.
From Emily Kleinman Schreiber: Last night, I was at a movie theater in Merrick, and there were also 3 former South High alumni there -- the Fisher twins (Rita & Diane), class of '64 and a woman named Pat, class of '66. One of them had seen the reunion ad and mentioned it. I told them we should all go. One of the twins gave me her e-mail address, and I promised to send her your information about the big weekend. I will do that. I'm also going to send out another bulk mailing to my classmates. Who knows, a few may have gotten interested.
Some business news, from Paul DeMartino: Dennis Shapiro told me yesterday that there are 45 paid so far, and we likely can expect another 5 from a few people that have told us over the phone that they will be attending, That still leaves us $3540 in the hole ($500 for the DJ and $3040 for the money contracted to the hotel).
[Rich -- One thing that will help this, and an explanation of how we were able to get all our former teachers comped, is a couple of our classmates have anonymously chipped in 2 grand to help defer expenses. That will pay for 10 teachers and their husbands, wives, or partners, but will still leave us $2500 bucks short. We could cut the DJ, though I remember everyone happily dancing to the juke box at the 37th reunion, so we won't cut the music until we hear from some of you. And if other people would like to send additional donations, obviously, these would be appreciated.]
Other news: The story on the Flower Road shooting in Green Acres / Mill Brook. Written by Nicole Falco, with help from Mike Schnitzel, from the online Long Island Herald: A 20-year-old Far Rockaway man was fatally shot early Sunday morning in Valley Stream just down the street from his father's house, police said. A Laurelton man was arrested Tuesday and charged with the murder.
Edward Donovan Nickerson Reese, who split time between his mother's home in Queens and his father and step-mother's house on Flower Road, was shot once in the face and once in the torso, police said. The shooting occurred at about 1:30 AM after an argument erupted between two groups.
"We feel that the incident grew out of long-standing animosity between one group of individuals and another group that included the victim, his brother and friends," said Detective Lieutenant Dennis Farrell of the Nassau County Homicide Squad. "We know that the two groups confronted each other in front of 47 Flower Road. There was a physical altercation. At some point the murder suspect took out a gun and fired three shots, two of which struck the victim."
Nickerson Reese was transported to Mercy Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 3:25 AM, apparently from the torso wound, Farrell said. Marvin McKenzie, 20, of 131-78 226th Street, was charged with second-degree murder, second-degree murder with depraved indifference for firing a gun into a crowd, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon. A press conference was held Wednesday morning at police headquarters. At the press conference, Farrell elaborated on the situation. Farrell said the confrontation resulted from a feud between one of Nickerson Reese's brothers and a neighbor. McKenzie is an acquaintance of the unidentified neighbor, Farrell explained. He also made it a point to say the incident was not drug- or gang-related.
Roger Jorgensen, who lives at 47 Flower Road, said that he and his wife, Nancy Teufel, were awakened by the incident. "I saw what was happening [from my bedroom window], but you couldn't tell. It was dark," he said. "We had front row seats, sort of, to what was happening. We heard people arguing, then we heard three shots fired, then the police cars came and the ambulance." Police responded to the scene quickly after receiving numerous 911 calls from neighbors who either witnessed or heard the incident, Jorgensen said. Neighbors also reported seeing three men fleeing the scene in an unknown vehicle. Jorgensen, who moved to Valley Stream from Brooklyn eight years ago, said investigators spent much of the rest of that night combing his front yard for evidence and looking over his house for bullet holes. The incident, however, has not changed his view of the community. "There's no trouble here at all," Jorgensen said. "It's a nice neighborhood with good schools."
Marc Tenzer, who lives nearby and is co-president of the Mill Brook Civic Association, said, "We know that this is an unfortunate, isolated incident and that we live in a beautiful community. I've lived here for 23 years, and I don't remember a shooting ever occurring in the neighborhood."
The victim had a promising future, according to his father Gregory Reese. Nickerson Reese had plans to enroll in a technical school in Virginia, to study to become an auto mechanic. While a student at South High School, he had taken classes in automotive technology through a high school district program offered at Central High School.
"Edward started living with us when he was in the seventh-grade," his father said. "At first the transition was very difficult for him, but with all the support he had from me as well as my wife and his mother, he turned his life around and was working harder and getting better grades." Since high school, Nickerson Reese had been working as an aide at a Queens' nursing home. "He loved it," Gregory Reese said of his son's job. "He just recently bought a [red Nissan Maxima]. He was real proud of that, being able to purchase his vehicle on his own with the money that he earned the past year." According to his father, Nickerson Reese was loving and family oriented, especially for such a young man. "He was the type of guy that would inherit any burdens of yours," he said. "That was his way."
Nickerson Reese is also survived by his mother, Debra Nickerson of Far Rockaway, his step-mother, Beloved Reese of Valley Stream, and siblings Maurice, Sophia, Thomas and Tiana. A funeral service is scheduled for Friday at 11:30 a.m. at J. Foster Phillips Funeral Home, 179-24 Linden Blvd., Jamaica.
The reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Sunday, July 2, 2017
Update 6-28-05
Hi,
One of those good news and bad news weeks. But so much news, I'll have to save some of it for next week.
First, the most heartening note, from Barnet Kellman, who's already mentioned that, because of scheduling problems, he can't make the reunion: Here's a check to keep up the tradition of Valley Stream South reunions. And please say "hi" to everyone for me.
[Rich -- Like Alan Finder, Carol Ewig Duran, and Robin Singer Taylor, Barnet sent the money he would have spent had he been free to come to the parties. The reason this is especially nice is there's a group of us who've already agreed to split the deficit because, as Barnet says, we believe in the tradition of South reunions. The money we kick in will comp the teachers. And anyone's welcome to contribute.]
Related, from Carol Ewig Duran: You acknowledged my recent message about not being able to attend the reunion, but I am still included on the list. That probably does not help the numbers. Sorry.
[Rich -- Ya, well, in addition to math, I used to be good at reading, too. But I think I've got this clear now.]
And from Barbara Zingman Braunstein: Sorry I won't be attending the reunion, but my husband and I will be on vacation in South America during first 19 days of August. We're going to the Galapagos Islands; Macchu Picchu; Quito, Ecuador; and Lima, Peru.
[Rich -- Oh, sure, you go to the Galapagos, and we go to Huntington.]
And while people are traveling, from Jerry Bittman: Please do me a favor. I'll be coming out to California and Nevada sometime in the next 10 days. I will be out there several months so hopefully we can connect. I have already spoken to Paul Zegler and will be meeting up with him and also will get in contact with Barnet Kellman. If there is anybody else from our class living in either California or Nevada who wants to join up with us, then e-mail ASAP to crazygeronimo@yahoo.com.
On money matters, from Dennis Shapiro: I noticed that you have Sherry Finkel down as attending the reunion. I have not received any money from her.
[Rich -- Sherry's one of those people we're comping, along with her piano player, Booker Gibson. It's a case of asking them to sing for their suppers.]
Also from Dennis: I don't believe anything has been done about inviting teachers, because we were waiting to see about the money. And Paul DeMartino is away in Italy and is returning tomorrow, and I am going away until Sunday.
[Rich -- Everyone's traveling but me. As for our former teachers: Hey, all you teachers, you're invited to our party. And you can bring a husband, wife, or guest. And please pass the word along -- and RSVP, soon. Thanks. (We'll figure out how to do a more formal follow-up as soon as Dennis and Paul get home.)]
Speaking of Mr. DeMartino, a note from him: Basically, I can tell you that things are slowly picking up. Other classes have been responsive, though one comment I'm hearing from them is regarding who is attending from their particular class. I wish I knew that answer and have gently suggested that they contact as many from their class as possible and have them spread the word. I've e-mailed or faxed the reunion flyer to several people and have asked them to send it on. Right now, I'm hoping for a last minute rush to get us over the top.
A different kind of rush; a report on the irritating morals of Hollywood, from Robert Fiveson:
Ever get tired of the big guys trampling on the little guys? Ever want to poke the eye out of some smarmy bastard with billions and an army of lawyers who thinks they make the rules? This is your chance!
On July 22nd, DreamWorks is releasing the film The Island, directed by Michael (Armageddon) Bay and starring Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson. Anyone who has seen the trailer or a sneak preview and has also seen the film Clonus -- which appeared on CBS, the SciFi Channel, and Mystery Science Theater 2000 -- knows that the plots are way too similar to be mere coincidence.
Clonus tells the story of Richard, a resident of a contained utopian facility. Like all of the inhabitants of this carefully controlled environment, Richard hopes to be chosen to go to America, where everyone is happy. But Richard soon discovers that everything about his existence is a lie. He and all his friends are actually clones whose only purpose is to provide "spare parts" for their original human counterparts. Realizing it's only a matter of time before he is harvested, he and a beautiful fellow resident named Lena plot an escape to the outside world they've never known. Relentlessly pursued by the forces of the sinister institute that once housed him, Richard engages in a race for his life to literally meet his makers. Compare that with the summary for The Island on imdb.com!
It seems the main difference is the budget: The Island exceeded $100 million. That is 400 times the final budget of Clonus. Of course, the big-budget film will have lots of chases and a happy ending tacked on -- you don't gamble that much money on a downer -- but that doesn't disguise its true origins. And many others have made note of this: if you Google Clonus and The Island together, you get around 11,000 hits, most commenting on the extraordinary similarity. Further, on imdb.com -- considered the definitive source for information about films -- if you click "Movie Connections" for The Island, it even says "Remake of Clonus," and if you click on "Movie Connections" for Clonus, it says "Remade as The Island."
Yet, amazingly, the original makers of Clonus (director Robert S.Fiveson, producer Myrl A. Schreibman, and screenwriters Bob Sullivan and Ron Smith) have been completely shut out, receiving no credit, no compensation, no anything, including not even being asked if the film could be remade.
How can you help? How can you stick a fistful of money up the arrogant noses of overpaid ‘talent’ and lawyers? Simple -- unlock the real power of the Internet (no, not porn!) Pass this e-mail on to as many people as you know who love movies, especially anyone from DreamWorks, any entertainment attorneys, and any critics who might be reviewing The Island. They may be able to give the originators the credit they deserve.
Do it for films! Do it for fairness! Do it because it will feel really good!
Finally, the sad news, from Paul Zegler: Just wanted to update you. First off, it's 14 weeks since my surgery, and I've lost over 65 pounds. Shrinking every day. Still do not walk very well, but finally showing some improvement. Also, my father passed away on June 21st. He had been in declining health for over a year. It was very peaceful.
Although, I could not go to the funeral, which was in Boston, a number of school mates knew him, so I'd like to share that information. Also I'd like to share a section of the eulogy that I wrote that was read at the funeral. This is a true story.
Manny Zegler was many things. An artist, teacher, humanitarian, religious and family man. I just want to focus on the humanitarian. He cared deeply about people, especially oppressed Jews, and when he had the chance, he did something to help. During the Cold War with Russia, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra was invited to play a number of concerts in Moscow. It was the first American orchestra ever to play behind the Iron Curtain. During this time period, the Jews in Russia were constantly being harassed for practicing their religion. They were not allowed to print prayer books or make prayer shawls (talaism). My father came up with an ingenious plan to help them. He decided, at great risk, to smuggle new prayer books and talaism into the country. He asked members of the orchestra, both Jews and non-Jews, if each would take two prayer books and one prayer shawl and hide them in their instrument cases. Fortunately, the Russian government did not check these cases upon their entering the country. The members of the orchestra all knew they were being watched carefully by informants, yet one by one, they entered the synagogue, sat down, and lay their gifts on a bench to be picked up by a member of the congregation. It worked! With his inspiration and leadership, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra had defeated the Russian government. The members of the congregation hugged my father and kissed him and cried with gratitude for his help. How proud of him I was when I heard this story. And I will forever be proud to Manny Zegler's son.
The reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
One of those good news and bad news weeks. But so much news, I'll have to save some of it for next week.
First, the most heartening note, from Barnet Kellman, who's already mentioned that, because of scheduling problems, he can't make the reunion: Here's a check to keep up the tradition of Valley Stream South reunions. And please say "hi" to everyone for me.
[Rich -- Like Alan Finder, Carol Ewig Duran, and Robin Singer Taylor, Barnet sent the money he would have spent had he been free to come to the parties. The reason this is especially nice is there's a group of us who've already agreed to split the deficit because, as Barnet says, we believe in the tradition of South reunions. The money we kick in will comp the teachers. And anyone's welcome to contribute.]
Related, from Carol Ewig Duran: You acknowledged my recent message about not being able to attend the reunion, but I am still included on the list. That probably does not help the numbers. Sorry.
[Rich -- Ya, well, in addition to math, I used to be good at reading, too. But I think I've got this clear now.]
And from Barbara Zingman Braunstein: Sorry I won't be attending the reunion, but my husband and I will be on vacation in South America during first 19 days of August. We're going to the Galapagos Islands; Macchu Picchu; Quito, Ecuador; and Lima, Peru.
[Rich -- Oh, sure, you go to the Galapagos, and we go to Huntington.]
And while people are traveling, from Jerry Bittman: Please do me a favor. I'll be coming out to California and Nevada sometime in the next 10 days. I will be out there several months so hopefully we can connect. I have already spoken to Paul Zegler and will be meeting up with him and also will get in contact with Barnet Kellman. If there is anybody else from our class living in either California or Nevada who wants to join up with us, then e-mail ASAP to crazygeronimo@yahoo.com.
On money matters, from Dennis Shapiro: I noticed that you have Sherry Finkel down as attending the reunion. I have not received any money from her.
[Rich -- Sherry's one of those people we're comping, along with her piano player, Booker Gibson. It's a case of asking them to sing for their suppers.]
Also from Dennis: I don't believe anything has been done about inviting teachers, because we were waiting to see about the money. And Paul DeMartino is away in Italy and is returning tomorrow, and I am going away until Sunday.
[Rich -- Everyone's traveling but me. As for our former teachers: Hey, all you teachers, you're invited to our party. And you can bring a husband, wife, or guest. And please pass the word along -- and RSVP, soon. Thanks. (We'll figure out how to do a more formal follow-up as soon as Dennis and Paul get home.)]
Speaking of Mr. DeMartino, a note from him: Basically, I can tell you that things are slowly picking up. Other classes have been responsive, though one comment I'm hearing from them is regarding who is attending from their particular class. I wish I knew that answer and have gently suggested that they contact as many from their class as possible and have them spread the word. I've e-mailed or faxed the reunion flyer to several people and have asked them to send it on. Right now, I'm hoping for a last minute rush to get us over the top.
A different kind of rush; a report on the irritating morals of Hollywood, from Robert Fiveson:
Ever get tired of the big guys trampling on the little guys? Ever want to poke the eye out of some smarmy bastard with billions and an army of lawyers who thinks they make the rules? This is your chance!
On July 22nd, DreamWorks is releasing the film The Island, directed by Michael (Armageddon) Bay and starring Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson. Anyone who has seen the trailer or a sneak preview and has also seen the film Clonus -- which appeared on CBS, the SciFi Channel, and Mystery Science Theater 2000 -- knows that the plots are way too similar to be mere coincidence.
Clonus tells the story of Richard, a resident of a contained utopian facility. Like all of the inhabitants of this carefully controlled environment, Richard hopes to be chosen to go to America, where everyone is happy. But Richard soon discovers that everything about his existence is a lie. He and all his friends are actually clones whose only purpose is to provide "spare parts" for their original human counterparts. Realizing it's only a matter of time before he is harvested, he and a beautiful fellow resident named Lena plot an escape to the outside world they've never known. Relentlessly pursued by the forces of the sinister institute that once housed him, Richard engages in a race for his life to literally meet his makers. Compare that with the summary for The Island on imdb.com!
It seems the main difference is the budget: The Island exceeded $100 million. That is 400 times the final budget of Clonus. Of course, the big-budget film will have lots of chases and a happy ending tacked on -- you don't gamble that much money on a downer -- but that doesn't disguise its true origins. And many others have made note of this: if you Google Clonus and The Island together, you get around 11,000 hits, most commenting on the extraordinary similarity. Further, on imdb.com -- considered the definitive source for information about films -- if you click "Movie Connections" for The Island, it even says "Remake of Clonus," and if you click on "Movie Connections" for Clonus, it says "Remade as The Island."
Yet, amazingly, the original makers of Clonus (director Robert S.Fiveson, producer Myrl A. Schreibman, and screenwriters Bob Sullivan and Ron Smith) have been completely shut out, receiving no credit, no compensation, no anything, including not even being asked if the film could be remade.
How can you help? How can you stick a fistful of money up the arrogant noses of overpaid ‘talent’ and lawyers? Simple -- unlock the real power of the Internet (no, not porn!) Pass this e-mail on to as many people as you know who love movies, especially anyone from DreamWorks, any entertainment attorneys, and any critics who might be reviewing The Island. They may be able to give the originators the credit they deserve.
Do it for films! Do it for fairness! Do it because it will feel really good!
Finally, the sad news, from Paul Zegler: Just wanted to update you. First off, it's 14 weeks since my surgery, and I've lost over 65 pounds. Shrinking every day. Still do not walk very well, but finally showing some improvement. Also, my father passed away on June 21st. He had been in declining health for over a year. It was very peaceful.
Although, I could not go to the funeral, which was in Boston, a number of school mates knew him, so I'd like to share that information. Also I'd like to share a section of the eulogy that I wrote that was read at the funeral. This is a true story.
Manny Zegler was many things. An artist, teacher, humanitarian, religious and family man. I just want to focus on the humanitarian. He cared deeply about people, especially oppressed Jews, and when he had the chance, he did something to help. During the Cold War with Russia, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra was invited to play a number of concerts in Moscow. It was the first American orchestra ever to play behind the Iron Curtain. During this time period, the Jews in Russia were constantly being harassed for practicing their religion. They were not allowed to print prayer books or make prayer shawls (talaism). My father came up with an ingenious plan to help them. He decided, at great risk, to smuggle new prayer books and talaism into the country. He asked members of the orchestra, both Jews and non-Jews, if each would take two prayer books and one prayer shawl and hide them in their instrument cases. Fortunately, the Russian government did not check these cases upon their entering the country. The members of the orchestra all knew they were being watched carefully by informants, yet one by one, they entered the synagogue, sat down, and lay their gifts on a bench to be picked up by a member of the congregation. It worked! With his inspiration and leadership, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra had defeated the Russian government. The members of the congregation hugged my father and kissed him and cried with gratitude for his help. How proud of him I was when I heard this story. And I will forever be proud to Manny Zegler's son.
The reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 6-21-05
Hi,
Math. I used to be good at this. At least, I could count. But last week I wiped out while trying to teach someone how to figure point slope, and, worse, when Dennis Shapiro sent me the latest reunion numbers, I added 6 to 34 and came up with 41. (Actually, I added 7 to 34 to reach 41, but I got to 7 by miscounting 6 names.) The good news is that in the intervening week, Dennis actually came up with another name, so we now actually are at 41.
More useful news, starting with a thank you note from Anderson Lee, this year's Booker
Gibson Music Scholarship winner: Thank you for honoring me with such a prestigious award. I value all the wonderful things Mr. Gibson said about me at the awards ceremony, and I will definitely uphold these principles. It was a pleasure meeting the man the award represents.
And from Booker Gibson: First, I wanted to say "hello," and next I wanted to mention that since the idea leading to the scholarship in my name came from the one in Vince Tampio's, I always mention him when I discuss the whole wonderful idea.
Also, I called the Huntington Hilton asking about the availability of a piano. The first lady I spoke with said it was pretty impossible to use the one in the lounge. A month later, I called and spoke to a different lady, named Karen, who said there would be no problem in rolling a piano into your room. So sometime in July, I'll have Sherry Finkel over here to sing the song "Even In A Crowd."
Also, this morning I called Liz King Giordano at South, and she told me that I didn't have to come to the awards ceremony at 7:00 PM next year to sit on the stage all night. She told me to come about 8:30 and sit in the audience if I wanted until Linda Tobin Kettering introduced me. That will make it much better.
[Rich -- a couple of things: First, I look forward to hearing Booker play and Sherry sing. Second, I'm glad Booker and Linda won't have to endure the sitting marathon in future years. And, third, let's not forget the sacrifice Robert Fiveson made the first year of the awards, toughing it out with Booker on the unsuitable chairs. As I recently wrote Robert, he was our test mouse, and we're glad he can still walk.]
Next, from Barbara Blitfield Pech: A follow-up to last week's link about 60's music -- current information about Long Island. Music. Concerts. Restaurants. Probably anything you can think of. The link: http://longisland.about.com
A reminder from Steve Cahn '70 about another reunion: So many people are waiting for others to register first. Please take the lead, so your friends can register, too. Don't wait! And Happy Fathers Day to those celebrating,
From an anonymous source, though not in a parking garage: There was a drive-by shooting on Flower Road last Saturday night. I don't know anything further, but there might be news at: Newsday.com.
[Rich -- Better than Newsday, my mother, who still lives on Forest Road: "Yes, there was a shooting. At the garden apartments. When Michael (my brother) came by on Saturday night, he said that Flower Road was blocked off at Forest, and there were police cars everywhere. But, though he asked, he could get no further information."
From Michael: "Yeah. It sucks, doesn't it?"]
The repeating reunion information:
The current list of people coming to the August reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names in 1965:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Thomas Booth '66
Tom Calise
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Wendy D'Angelo Scully '68
Carol D'Angelo Tucci '67
Elaine DeMartino Maas '67
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran (donor only)
Robin Feit Baker
Alan Finder?
Sherry Finkel '68
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Booker Gibson
Steve Gootzeit
Neil Guberman
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Robin Singer Taylor ?
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
Arthur Yngstrom '69
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
Math. I used to be good at this. At least, I could count. But last week I wiped out while trying to teach someone how to figure point slope, and, worse, when Dennis Shapiro sent me the latest reunion numbers, I added 6 to 34 and came up with 41. (Actually, I added 7 to 34 to reach 41, but I got to 7 by miscounting 6 names.) The good news is that in the intervening week, Dennis actually came up with another name, so we now actually are at 41.
More useful news, starting with a thank you note from Anderson Lee, this year's Booker
Gibson Music Scholarship winner: Thank you for honoring me with such a prestigious award. I value all the wonderful things Mr. Gibson said about me at the awards ceremony, and I will definitely uphold these principles. It was a pleasure meeting the man the award represents.
And from Booker Gibson: First, I wanted to say "hello," and next I wanted to mention that since the idea leading to the scholarship in my name came from the one in Vince Tampio's, I always mention him when I discuss the whole wonderful idea.
Also, I called the Huntington Hilton asking about the availability of a piano. The first lady I spoke with said it was pretty impossible to use the one in the lounge. A month later, I called and spoke to a different lady, named Karen, who said there would be no problem in rolling a piano into your room. So sometime in July, I'll have Sherry Finkel over here to sing the song "Even In A Crowd."
Also, this morning I called Liz King Giordano at South, and she told me that I didn't have to come to the awards ceremony at 7:00 PM next year to sit on the stage all night. She told me to come about 8:30 and sit in the audience if I wanted until Linda Tobin Kettering introduced me. That will make it much better.
[Rich -- a couple of things: First, I look forward to hearing Booker play and Sherry sing. Second, I'm glad Booker and Linda won't have to endure the sitting marathon in future years. And, third, let's not forget the sacrifice Robert Fiveson made the first year of the awards, toughing it out with Booker on the unsuitable chairs. As I recently wrote Robert, he was our test mouse, and we're glad he can still walk.]
Next, from Barbara Blitfield Pech: A follow-up to last week's link about 60's music -- current information about Long Island. Music. Concerts. Restaurants. Probably anything you can think of. The link: http://longisland.about.com
A reminder from Steve Cahn '70 about another reunion: So many people are waiting for others to register first. Please take the lead, so your friends can register, too. Don't wait! And Happy Fathers Day to those celebrating,
From an anonymous source, though not in a parking garage: There was a drive-by shooting on Flower Road last Saturday night. I don't know anything further, but there might be news at: Newsday.com.
[Rich -- Better than Newsday, my mother, who still lives on Forest Road: "Yes, there was a shooting. At the garden apartments. When Michael (my brother) came by on Saturday night, he said that Flower Road was blocked off at Forest, and there were police cars everywhere. But, though he asked, he could get no further information."
From Michael: "Yeah. It sucks, doesn't it?"]
The repeating reunion information:
The current list of people coming to the August reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names in 1965:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Thomas Booth '66
Tom Calise
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Wendy D'Angelo Scully '68
Carol D'Angelo Tucci '67
Elaine DeMartino Maas '67
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran (donor only)
Robin Feit Baker
Alan Finder?
Sherry Finkel '68
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Booker Gibson
Steve Gootzeit
Neil Guberman
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Robin Singer Taylor ?
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
Arthur Yngstrom '69
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 6-14-05
Hi,
More about the reunion, from Dennis Shapiro: Just to let you know, I've received checks from Robin Singer Taylor and Neil Guberman. Robin also enclosed a note saying she may not be able to attend, but wanted to contribute. And I received checks from Arthur Yngstrom, '69, Elaine DeMartino Maas, '67, Carol D'Angelo Tucci, '67, and Thomas Booth, '66. That brings the total to 41 and leaves 35 to go to the break-even point.
And about South, from Booker Gibson: Please pass this along to the wonderful class of '65. Last night, I attended the entire awards night at South High. It didn't seem to be as uncomfortable as last year because Linda Tobin Kettering, '69, was well prepared. She did the presentation of Vince's award very well and had an introduction prepared for me.
The reception was rather overwhelming -- and embarrassing. If Vince Tampio had been there, he would have experienced about the same. When I made my short introduction, I had to mention your class. Some South grads were in the audience because their youngsters were there, and, in August, I'm looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible. Thanks again.
P.S. I handed the music award to a young Black fella who's headed for the University of Pennsylvania! How about that?
[Rich -- I wrote both Booker and Linda, to thank them for all of us and to invite them to present these awards for as long as they'd like.]
Linda wrote back: You're welcome. My back is still recovering from the long sit, but I'll do it again next year to honor these two fine teachers (as long as I speak to Liz King Giordano first and find out when I'm presenting. That way, I can come early and present early, or come late and present late!)
More about South, from Linda: I wasn't sure if Jeff Leshansky (this year's recipient of the Vince Tampio Theater Award) had gotten your address, so I thought I'd forward this to you. He was SOOOO excited to receive it. His mother told me that this was the one award he had really wanted. He's a very nice, shy kid who totally comes alive on the stage. In this year' s South High School production of Oklahoma, Jeff stole the show as Judd. Just thought you'd like to know that your class's money is being well spent.
From Jeffrey Leshansky to Linda: Thanks once again for the award. It really means a lot to me. Attached is a copy of the letter I sent to the people who gave me the scholarship. I don't know if they want to know anything else I have been involved in, but besides the various theatrical productions in school, I also take acting lessons in Manhattan from Flo Salant Greenberg. Maybe they know her because she is very good and has taught many actors. I am also now in West Side Story.
From Jeffrey Leshansky to the rest of us: Greetings! My name is Jeffrey Leshansky, and I am the proud recipient of the Vince Tampio Theater Award at Valley Stream South High School. I am just writing to thank you for your generous gift and to let you know how much receiving this award means to me.
The theater and the performing arts are my passion, and I hope to pursue a professional career one day. Starting in the fall, I will be attending Miami University of Ohio, with a double major in biochemistry and theater. This gift will greatly assist me and give me more motivation to fulfill my aspirations. Thanks once again for this honor!
More from Linda Tobin Kettering: By the way, I attended a meeting with the South High School superintendent, the high school assistant principal, and various politicians from the town, county, and 5th precinct to review the footbridge situation. It has been closed since a second student was attacked walking home for lunch a few weeks ago. The community has mixed feelings about closing the bridge, and the final recommendation will be presented to the school board by the superintendent at their July meeting. In the meantime, the Mill Brook (Green Acres) students are walking home "the long way," or getting their parents to drive them. Very inconvenient, but safer.
From Robin Singer Taylor: How are you? I, myself, am fine. I may or may not come to the reunion (I've sent in money, however). But actually, I just wanted to give you my new e-mail address. It is: rtaylor@restainobunbury.com If you could change that on the home page, as well as on the list for the updates, I would appreciate it. And if I don't see you this summer, I'll look forward to seeing you at the next reunion!
From a useful source outside our class: The following e-mail is for Ed Schmidt and Ginny Ressa Schmidt: GINNYEDWARD@aol.com They live in East Hampton, and their phone number is: 631-324-2123. That may come in handy, as I don't think they check their e-mail that often!
From Robin Seader Cottmeyer: Hi All! The following link will surely bring back some memories. The quality of the music is not the best, but I sure don't know where you can get so many songs from that era at one site. Enjoy both the music and your summer months. The link: http://www.bobforrest.com/JukeBox.htm
From Barbara Blitfield Pech: With all hoopla and planning for the upcoming reunion, has anyone taken notice, or had a passing thought, that this next week, June 19th, is the actual day of our graduation (we all know how many years ago). Am I correct in my senior-moment-weakened memory that we were rained out on the 19th, and that graduation was moved ahead one day to the 20th? Needless to say, it all seems like yesterday to me!
From Robert Fiveson to Barbara Blitfield Pech: I missed graduation because of Mr. Newman and Spanish, which had me yet again in summer school. It's funny: I have a BA and an MFA, and I've still never been to a graduation.
Also from Mr. Fiveson: Someone sent this to me, and I rarely pass these kinds of things on. But I found this one apt to our age group and especially to our sense of unity:
I grew up in the 50s with practical parents. A mother, God love her, who washed aluminum foil after she cooked in it, then reused it. A father who was happier getting old shoes fixed than buying new ones. Their best friends lived barely a wave away.
It was a way of life that sometimes made me crazy. All that re-fixing, reheating, and renewing. I wanted to be wasteful, just once. Then my mother died, and in that hospital room, I was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any more.
This is true for everything. Some things we keep just because they're worth it. Like a best friend who moved away, or a classmate we grew up with. These are the things that make life important.
Finally, some fan mail from Barbara Blitfield Pech: It's 9 o'clock on a Tuesday and no reunion page. Am I antsy ... unsettled ... concerned? Hell, yes! I trust you are OK and are just suffering a computer glitch. Or is this your clever marketing plot to remind us how much we all look forward to the weekly updates -- a wake-up call for those of us who haven't quite decided if are joining the rest of our class in August. Good one. It worked! Whew.
Now that all is good again (as I do believe that just when I hit my send key, the reunion page will miraculously appear from cyberspace, as these things do) I will get on with the rest of the day. After I read the update, of course!
[Rich -- It actually took a couple more days for last week's update to reach Barbara, and I've already explained why. But I'm including this largely as a lead-in to something I just noticed: it's been four years since these updates began. I know there were a couple before June 18th, 2001, when we were first reassembling the class, but that's the earliest one I still have. And I know it was a while before they started coming weekly. But once everyone began contributing, they just rolled out. So thanks.]
The reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
More about the reunion, from Dennis Shapiro: Just to let you know, I've received checks from Robin Singer Taylor and Neil Guberman. Robin also enclosed a note saying she may not be able to attend, but wanted to contribute. And I received checks from Arthur Yngstrom, '69, Elaine DeMartino Maas, '67, Carol D'Angelo Tucci, '67, and Thomas Booth, '66. That brings the total to 41 and leaves 35 to go to the break-even point.
And about South, from Booker Gibson: Please pass this along to the wonderful class of '65. Last night, I attended the entire awards night at South High. It didn't seem to be as uncomfortable as last year because Linda Tobin Kettering, '69, was well prepared. She did the presentation of Vince's award very well and had an introduction prepared for me.
The reception was rather overwhelming -- and embarrassing. If Vince Tampio had been there, he would have experienced about the same. When I made my short introduction, I had to mention your class. Some South grads were in the audience because their youngsters were there, and, in August, I'm looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible. Thanks again.
P.S. I handed the music award to a young Black fella who's headed for the University of Pennsylvania! How about that?
[Rich -- I wrote both Booker and Linda, to thank them for all of us and to invite them to present these awards for as long as they'd like.]
Linda wrote back: You're welcome. My back is still recovering from the long sit, but I'll do it again next year to honor these two fine teachers (as long as I speak to Liz King Giordano first and find out when I'm presenting. That way, I can come early and present early, or come late and present late!)
More about South, from Linda: I wasn't sure if Jeff Leshansky (this year's recipient of the Vince Tampio Theater Award) had gotten your address, so I thought I'd forward this to you. He was SOOOO excited to receive it. His mother told me that this was the one award he had really wanted. He's a very nice, shy kid who totally comes alive on the stage. In this year' s South High School production of Oklahoma, Jeff stole the show as Judd. Just thought you'd like to know that your class's money is being well spent.
From Jeffrey Leshansky to Linda: Thanks once again for the award. It really means a lot to me. Attached is a copy of the letter I sent to the people who gave me the scholarship. I don't know if they want to know anything else I have been involved in, but besides the various theatrical productions in school, I also take acting lessons in Manhattan from Flo Salant Greenberg. Maybe they know her because she is very good and has taught many actors. I am also now in West Side Story.
From Jeffrey Leshansky to the rest of us: Greetings! My name is Jeffrey Leshansky, and I am the proud recipient of the Vince Tampio Theater Award at Valley Stream South High School. I am just writing to thank you for your generous gift and to let you know how much receiving this award means to me.
The theater and the performing arts are my passion, and I hope to pursue a professional career one day. Starting in the fall, I will be attending Miami University of Ohio, with a double major in biochemistry and theater. This gift will greatly assist me and give me more motivation to fulfill my aspirations. Thanks once again for this honor!
More from Linda Tobin Kettering: By the way, I attended a meeting with the South High School superintendent, the high school assistant principal, and various politicians from the town, county, and 5th precinct to review the footbridge situation. It has been closed since a second student was attacked walking home for lunch a few weeks ago. The community has mixed feelings about closing the bridge, and the final recommendation will be presented to the school board by the superintendent at their July meeting. In the meantime, the Mill Brook (Green Acres) students are walking home "the long way," or getting their parents to drive them. Very inconvenient, but safer.
From Robin Singer Taylor: How are you? I, myself, am fine. I may or may not come to the reunion (I've sent in money, however). But actually, I just wanted to give you my new e-mail address. It is: rtaylor@restainobunbury.com If you could change that on the home page, as well as on the list for the updates, I would appreciate it. And if I don't see you this summer, I'll look forward to seeing you at the next reunion!
From a useful source outside our class: The following e-mail is for Ed Schmidt and Ginny Ressa Schmidt: GINNYEDWARD@aol.com They live in East Hampton, and their phone number is: 631-324-2123. That may come in handy, as I don't think they check their e-mail that often!
From Robin Seader Cottmeyer: Hi All! The following link will surely bring back some memories. The quality of the music is not the best, but I sure don't know where you can get so many songs from that era at one site. Enjoy both the music and your summer months. The link: http://www.bobforrest.com/JukeBox.htm
From Barbara Blitfield Pech: With all hoopla and planning for the upcoming reunion, has anyone taken notice, or had a passing thought, that this next week, June 19th, is the actual day of our graduation (we all know how many years ago). Am I correct in my senior-moment-weakened memory that we were rained out on the 19th, and that graduation was moved ahead one day to the 20th? Needless to say, it all seems like yesterday to me!
From Robert Fiveson to Barbara Blitfield Pech: I missed graduation because of Mr. Newman and Spanish, which had me yet again in summer school. It's funny: I have a BA and an MFA, and I've still never been to a graduation.
Also from Mr. Fiveson: Someone sent this to me, and I rarely pass these kinds of things on. But I found this one apt to our age group and especially to our sense of unity:
I grew up in the 50s with practical parents. A mother, God love her, who washed aluminum foil after she cooked in it, then reused it. A father who was happier getting old shoes fixed than buying new ones. Their best friends lived barely a wave away.
It was a way of life that sometimes made me crazy. All that re-fixing, reheating, and renewing. I wanted to be wasteful, just once. Then my mother died, and in that hospital room, I was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any more.
This is true for everything. Some things we keep just because they're worth it. Like a best friend who moved away, or a classmate we grew up with. These are the things that make life important.
Finally, some fan mail from Barbara Blitfield Pech: It's 9 o'clock on a Tuesday and no reunion page. Am I antsy ... unsettled ... concerned? Hell, yes! I trust you are OK and are just suffering a computer glitch. Or is this your clever marketing plot to remind us how much we all look forward to the weekly updates -- a wake-up call for those of us who haven't quite decided if are joining the rest of our class in August. Good one. It worked! Whew.
Now that all is good again (as I do believe that just when I hit my send key, the reunion page will miraculously appear from cyberspace, as these things do) I will get on with the rest of the day. After I read the update, of course!
[Rich -- It actually took a couple more days for last week's update to reach Barbara, and I've already explained why. But I'm including this largely as a lead-in to something I just noticed: it's been four years since these updates began. I know there were a couple before June 18th, 2001, when we were first reassembling the class, but that's the earliest one I still have. And I know it was a while before they started coming weekly. But once everyone began contributing, they just rolled out. So thanks.]
The reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 6-7-05
Hi,
A light week for mail. An explanation, a suggestion, a follow-through, a reminder, and the repeating reunion information.
The explanation, from Carol Ewig Duran: My parents have scheduled a visit to Chicago during the first week of August. I am very fortunate to still have them in my life, healthy enough to travel, and great fun to be with. I always enjoy being with them. Of course, that means I will not be able to attend the reunion. But I hope everyone there has a wonderful time, and I look forward to hearing about it. Regards to all.
[Rich -- Ya, if I had my choice, I'd spend a week with my parents, too. So have a good time, Carol, and we'll send you the pictures from the parties.]
The suggestion, from Steve Cahn: You can check the faculty section of the class of '70 website. There may be some contact information there you can use. Also, Ms. Bushnell does not have an e-mail address if my memory serves me well. Hope this helps!
[Rich -- Thanks, Steve, which leads right into the follow-through. On the class of '70 website, the following teacher contact information is listed:
Black Anast, Janet.........................jeazzny@aol.com
Bargman Margolin, Teresa................................
Bushnell, Ruth.....................................no email
Cutting, Chris..................................................
David, Helen.......................hdavid5000@aol.com
Gibson, Booker.................bgibson@optonline.net
Hansen, Cliff....................................................
Leshefsky, Amy...............AmyCLL@optonline.net
Luadtke, Ina........................carynsmom@aol.com
Messner, Charles............cmessner@optonline.net
O'Brien, Bernie ................... OB11@optonline.net
Rea, Toni..........................................................
Rosov, Hyram..............................chaihy@aol.com
Schoen, Marlene ..............................................
Seaman, Don........................a.m.seaman@att.net
Seaman, Robert.................................................
Silverberg, Stan .............joanandstans@yahoo.com
Steinmuller, Greg...............................................
Stevens, Kathleen..............................................
Sympson, Robert...........psympson@optonline.net
Vogel, Maxine...........................LidoMax@cs.com
Walsh, Rosemary...................Romawa@aol.com
Zabatta, John.........................coachzpsu@aol.com
The blue notations are links, but I don't know if they'll work from this forward. Obviously, some of these teachers came to South after we graduated, and there are some who may have been there, but whose names I don't recognize. In addition to Steve's list, we have the following information from our faculty list:
Caruso, Joe.........................................................
Linkner, Bill........................ boomerlinkner@aol.com
Porter Rylander, Janet...... jfrylander@worldnet.att.net
Rea, Toni.................................... TRLN79@aol.com
As I've mentioned before, if there are other teachers you want to see, please let us know, and we'll try and find them. Meanwhile, we're still hoping to comp all the teachers who can come to the Saturday night party, so whoever has the contact information for Ms. Margolin Bargman, and Joe Caruso, please send it to me. Soon, someone will send all these people a nice invitation.
Also noted on the class of '70 website is their 35th Reunion notice: Saturday and Sunday, September 17th and 18th at the LaGuardia Marriott. $110 per person. Check their website for further information: http://www.geocities.com/vssouth70/index.html]
Finally, the reminder: The South High Awards Presentation is this Wednesday evening, June 8th, starting at 7:00. If you're in the area, go and smile at Booker Gibson and sing the Alma Mater with the crowd.
The repeating reunion information:
The current list of people coming to the August reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names in 1965:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Tom Calise
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran
Robin Feit Baker
Alan Finder?
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Steve Gootzeit
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
A light week for mail. An explanation, a suggestion, a follow-through, a reminder, and the repeating reunion information.
The explanation, from Carol Ewig Duran: My parents have scheduled a visit to Chicago during the first week of August. I am very fortunate to still have them in my life, healthy enough to travel, and great fun to be with. I always enjoy being with them. Of course, that means I will not be able to attend the reunion. But I hope everyone there has a wonderful time, and I look forward to hearing about it. Regards to all.
[Rich -- Ya, if I had my choice, I'd spend a week with my parents, too. So have a good time, Carol, and we'll send you the pictures from the parties.]
The suggestion, from Steve Cahn: You can check the faculty section of the class of '70 website. There may be some contact information there you can use. Also, Ms. Bushnell does not have an e-mail address if my memory serves me well. Hope this helps!
[Rich -- Thanks, Steve, which leads right into the follow-through. On the class of '70 website, the following teacher contact information is listed:
Black Anast, Janet.........................jeazzny@aol.com
Bargman Margolin, Teresa................................
Bushnell, Ruth.....................................no email
Cutting, Chris..................................................
David, Helen.......................hdavid5000@aol.com
Gibson, Booker.................bgibson@optonline.net
Hansen, Cliff....................................................
Leshefsky, Amy...............AmyCLL@optonline.net
Luadtke, Ina........................carynsmom@aol.com
Messner, Charles............cmessner@optonline.net
O'Brien, Bernie ................... OB11@optonline.net
Rea, Toni..........................................................
Rosov, Hyram..............................chaihy@aol.com
Schoen, Marlene ..............................................
Seaman, Don........................a.m.seaman@att.net
Seaman, Robert.................................................
Silverberg, Stan .............joanandstans@yahoo.com
Steinmuller, Greg...............................................
Stevens, Kathleen..............................................
Sympson, Robert...........psympson@optonline.net
Vogel, Maxine...........................LidoMax@cs.com
Walsh, Rosemary...................Romawa@aol.com
Zabatta, John.........................coachzpsu@aol.com
The blue notations are links, but I don't know if they'll work from this forward. Obviously, some of these teachers came to South after we graduated, and there are some who may have been there, but whose names I don't recognize. In addition to Steve's list, we have the following information from our faculty list:
Caruso, Joe.........................................................
Linkner, Bill........................ boomerlinkner@aol.com
Porter Rylander, Janet...... jfrylander@worldnet.att.net
Rea, Toni.................................... TRLN79@aol.com
As I've mentioned before, if there are other teachers you want to see, please let us know, and we'll try and find them. Meanwhile, we're still hoping to comp all the teachers who can come to the Saturday night party, so whoever has the contact information for Ms. Margolin Bargman, and Joe Caruso, please send it to me. Soon, someone will send all these people a nice invitation.
Also noted on the class of '70 website is their 35th Reunion notice: Saturday and Sunday, September 17th and 18th at the LaGuardia Marriott. $110 per person. Check their website for further information: http://www.geocities.com/vssouth70/index.html]
Finally, the reminder: The South High Awards Presentation is this Wednesday evening, June 8th, starting at 7:00. If you're in the area, go and smile at Booker Gibson and sing the Alma Mater with the crowd.
The repeating reunion information:
The current list of people coming to the August reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names in 1965:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Tom Calise
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran
Robin Feit Baker
Alan Finder?
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Steve Gootzeit
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 5-31-05
Hi,
Just in time for the unofficial start of summer, some good news on the reunion front.
From Paul DeMartino: A note to let you all know about the direction the reunion is taking. As you already know, we have opened it up to all South classes from the 60s. The response to our Newsday notice has been very positive, and I've heard from many people from other classes who are very interested in coming.
Many have asked about the teachers and have expressed an interest in seeing them. Have you heard from anyone regarding a list, or can Booker Gibson act as our liaison to our former teachers? Of course, if we can obtain the teachers' addresses, we can contact them ourselves, and I think now is the time to do so. If anyone else can help with this, it would be much appreciated.
My message otherwise has been for everyone to send their checks to Dennis Shapiro as soon as possible, so we can cover the hotel's next deadline in mid-June. Also, the hotel needs to get a handle on how many people from each class will be attending to determine if more hotel rooms will be needed.
More soon.
[Rich -- Paul also forwarded a copy of the flier he's been circulating to the other 60's classes. It includes the information repeated at the bottom of this newsletter, plus: Please put your class year on check to Dennis Shapiro, or in an attached note, so that we can keep an accurate head count of how many people are attending from each class.
In any case, that's great news, all around. As far as the teachers go, as I've mentioned before, through e-mail, we can contact, in alphabetical order: Gibson, Linkner, O'Brien, Porter, Rea, and Rosov. We can probably also reach Caruso, Margolin (Bargeman), and Solomon, through people who've stayed in touch with them since the last reunion. That's a start. But we need to figure out which teachers people most want to see, how to contact them, and how to comp them all. As Paul said, suggestions willingly taken.]
[Rich -- also -- The neat thing about making mistakes is that you get to correct them the following week.]
From Joanne Shapiro Polner: I was pleased to find my whole letter to Emily Kleinman Schreiber shared with all of you online. But please note that I am from the class of 1959, not '61. That was the second graduating class at South. There are many friendships and marriages across the first three graduating classes. When the first three had a reunion a number of years ago, it was incredible, to say the least.
There is another correction that needs to be made, the spelling fault mine: Barbara Pincus Chehoski -- no W. Thanks.
Other news:
From Barbara Blitfield Pech: I found an extra two cents that I am tossing into the weekly news. In response to "Who is Ira Levy": circa 1952-53, in Miss Lewis' Brooklyn Avenue School kindergarten, Ira taught me a valuable lesson to be used years later. He was my first awareness of "time out." Having had a tiff with our teacher, and showing his anger verbally, young Mr. Levy advised Miss Lewis, that -- in his opinion -- she had erred in her ways and was therefore being awarded the title of "Big Chocolate Nose Mean Teacher." Mr. Levy was promptly directed to the corner in which he stood until a reprieve was granted by none other than moi. I advised Miss Lewis that Ira must not have cleaned his glasses well because I could not see any chocolate on her nose (probably because she licked it off), so he should not have to stand in the corner. And guess who replaced him?
On a similar subject, from someone again younger than most of us: I am appreciative of the piece on Ira Levy. I went to junior high with one of his sisters who died. We were in the seventh grade when that happened, but I still remember her as a very sweet girl. It was a huge tragedy, and a tremendous shock to us all. One day she was in class, and the next day she was not.
From Barnet Kellman: The good news is that I just got my schedule for next season, and I get to work in show business for another year. The bad news is that I start on August 1st in Los Angeles, so, sadly, I’ll miss the reunion. But please send my regards to all.
[Rich -- As I just wrote Barnet: Much as I'd like to see him in August, I'd rather have him working for another year. And I'll bet you all feel the same way.]
And from Liz King Giordano: The Gibson and Tampio checks arrived. Thank you for your prompt response. I will send you the program and the students' bios as soon as they are available.
Again, many thanks for your class' commitment.
The current list of people coming to the August reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names in 1965:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Tom Calise
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran
Robin Feit Baker
Alan Finder?
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Steve Gootzeit
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
The repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
Just in time for the unofficial start of summer, some good news on the reunion front.
From Paul DeMartino: A note to let you all know about the direction the reunion is taking. As you already know, we have opened it up to all South classes from the 60s. The response to our Newsday notice has been very positive, and I've heard from many people from other classes who are very interested in coming.
Many have asked about the teachers and have expressed an interest in seeing them. Have you heard from anyone regarding a list, or can Booker Gibson act as our liaison to our former teachers? Of course, if we can obtain the teachers' addresses, we can contact them ourselves, and I think now is the time to do so. If anyone else can help with this, it would be much appreciated.
My message otherwise has been for everyone to send their checks to Dennis Shapiro as soon as possible, so we can cover the hotel's next deadline in mid-June. Also, the hotel needs to get a handle on how many people from each class will be attending to determine if more hotel rooms will be needed.
More soon.
[Rich -- Paul also forwarded a copy of the flier he's been circulating to the other 60's classes. It includes the information repeated at the bottom of this newsletter, plus: Please put your class year on check to Dennis Shapiro, or in an attached note, so that we can keep an accurate head count of how many people are attending from each class.
In any case, that's great news, all around. As far as the teachers go, as I've mentioned before, through e-mail, we can contact, in alphabetical order: Gibson, Linkner, O'Brien, Porter, Rea, and Rosov. We can probably also reach Caruso, Margolin (Bargeman), and Solomon, through people who've stayed in touch with them since the last reunion. That's a start. But we need to figure out which teachers people most want to see, how to contact them, and how to comp them all. As Paul said, suggestions willingly taken.]
[Rich -- also -- The neat thing about making mistakes is that you get to correct them the following week.]
From Joanne Shapiro Polner: I was pleased to find my whole letter to Emily Kleinman Schreiber shared with all of you online. But please note that I am from the class of 1959, not '61. That was the second graduating class at South. There are many friendships and marriages across the first three graduating classes. When the first three had a reunion a number of years ago, it was incredible, to say the least.
There is another correction that needs to be made, the spelling fault mine: Barbara Pincus Chehoski -- no W. Thanks.
Other news:
From Barbara Blitfield Pech: I found an extra two cents that I am tossing into the weekly news. In response to "Who is Ira Levy": circa 1952-53, in Miss Lewis' Brooklyn Avenue School kindergarten, Ira taught me a valuable lesson to be used years later. He was my first awareness of "time out." Having had a tiff with our teacher, and showing his anger verbally, young Mr. Levy advised Miss Lewis, that -- in his opinion -- she had erred in her ways and was therefore being awarded the title of "Big Chocolate Nose Mean Teacher." Mr. Levy was promptly directed to the corner in which he stood until a reprieve was granted by none other than moi. I advised Miss Lewis that Ira must not have cleaned his glasses well because I could not see any chocolate on her nose (probably because she licked it off), so he should not have to stand in the corner. And guess who replaced him?
On a similar subject, from someone again younger than most of us: I am appreciative of the piece on Ira Levy. I went to junior high with one of his sisters who died. We were in the seventh grade when that happened, but I still remember her as a very sweet girl. It was a huge tragedy, and a tremendous shock to us all. One day she was in class, and the next day she was not.
From Barnet Kellman: The good news is that I just got my schedule for next season, and I get to work in show business for another year. The bad news is that I start on August 1st in Los Angeles, so, sadly, I’ll miss the reunion. But please send my regards to all.
[Rich -- As I just wrote Barnet: Much as I'd like to see him in August, I'd rather have him working for another year. And I'll bet you all feel the same way.]
And from Liz King Giordano: The Gibson and Tampio checks arrived. Thank you for your prompt response. I will send you the program and the students' bios as soon as they are available.
Again, many thanks for your class' commitment.
The current list of people coming to the August reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names in 1965:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Tom Calise
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran
Robin Feit Baker
Alan Finder?
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Steve Gootzeit
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
The repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 5-24-05
Hi,
Latest news on the reunion from Dennis Shapiro: I have received money from Barbara Endy Ianniello, Alan Finder, and Tom Calise, which brings the total to 34. 42 to go.
We're also waiting to see what comes from Paul DeMartino's new publicity and the effort to expand the reunion across the 60's classes. That's generated some related writing.
First, as a result of Alan Finder's note, two other classmates have written in saying they also, unfortunately, can't be at the reunion. But they'll send a hundred bucks each if we need it. That's very generous.
Along those lines: I've canceled my hotel reservations and made plans to stay with my mother in Green Acres. I'll kick my hotel money into the reunion pool. Though crawling back into my childhood bedroom is no small thing.
And we've gotten letters from two classmates slightly removed:
From Joanne Shapiro Polner, class of '61: (Please note that the following rambling is not fine writing style, but more of stream of consciousness informality; I need to tell you this because the main part of my note to you concerns teaching fine writing.)
You helped me out about four years ago when I was searching for a classmate from South's class of '59. You recommended Hy Rosov, who in turn, made a recommendation to me which led directly to the brother of my "lost person," Barbara Pincus Chehowski, now of Tucson. Then it led to her.
I write to you today to share a few pages from our family How-To Writing Folder, because I was thrilled to read the recap of your teaching program for SAT essay writing. It sounded oh-so-familiar. I might have learned it at South, from good ole Mrs. Clark, in our day -- or even Mr. Hartman. Well, I learned well; my husband Alex, from South '58, was less a writer than a future engineer and manager, so I was responsible for complementing our children's school work in the humanities, he, in the sciences.
I taught our three children to think just a bit more broadly than their excellent writing manual from their good school, Ramapo High School, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. Their graduation years were '87 and (two in) '91. But South High form was in my head, for starters. I believe that our daughters have more skills at writing than our son. I only have one extant high school composition from our son, so I'd say, writing is not his forte -- his speaking and arguments are orderly today, so he has some great stuff up there in his head!
In 1997, I became a mentor for a black Muslim teen in Alabama -- Selma, to be exact -- who had attended the same fabulous teen camp as our children, Legacy International Youth Program in Lynchburg, Virginia. But she went a couple of summers later than our kids. With the South High method -- now to be known as the Eisbrouch writing model -- imbedded in the Polner Writing Folder, and with the addition of the Ramapo High School directives, Safiyyah learned to write well. (We did it first by letter, then by e-mail. We have never met and have only exchanged photos once.) I read her college English lit assignments and advised on the editing of her papers. She just finished her first year of Law School in Miami, and I know that I played a part in sharpening her mind and writing over the years.
I have put the simple notes of the Polner Family Writing Folder in the attachment. A couple of the paragraphs on the second page, at the end, seem to refer to a particular essay question that Safiyyah had to answer, so I must have combined her mentoring with Polner children helping ideas. We have a new generation of children coming up, albeit the oldest is 6, but your letter about the SAT essay writing format has a file to itself. That's in the folder called Essay Writing on my computer -- saved for the little kids when they get to be bigger kids!
Now how did that Class of '65 e-mail with the Eisbrouch method get to me? My husband Alex was friends at South with Emily Kleinman Schreiber's brother, Stewart, now of West Hartford, Connecticut, and we both remember Emily from a South High three-class reunion. We exchanged e-mail addresses then. Alex graduated a year ahead of me -- in the first South graduating class, though I didn't know him then. We actually met after he graduated from college, and I had a year to go at a different college. My brother, Peter M. Shapiro, graduated in 1962 with Alex's brother Larry, and Peter was friends with Emily. Two years ago, Alex and I met Emily's son Michael, a photographer. I do photography as a hobby, and I know Joe Zarba, from Brooklyn, a retired middle school teacher of photography, who used to run a photographer speakers' series. I recommended Mike, and he was a great hit with the attendees last year.
Emily and I e-mail each other from time to time, as do my brother and Emily. We just received the e-mail with the South High bridge story, as well as your essay letter. I just love how we are all bound together through friendship and e-mail and South! So, there you have it -- the what and wherefore!
Best regards to all. jocem@juno.com
From Steve Cahn, class of '70: Just a few memories from a "youngster."
Mr. Sykes had me cleaning up cigarette butts on the path leading to the bridge for what seemed like a 4-year prison sentence, but was really just most of my 7th and 8th grades. My recollection is that he did NOT stay on much past '65, if at all. He was not really a part of my high school experience at South -- just in junior high.
Also, no one has ever duplicated Leo's egg salad at Molly's. I used to have it with an egg creme, a vanilla Coke, or a Lime Ricky. Sublime. I also recall pizza at "Pizza Supreme" at the Green Acres Shopping Center (which is now an enclosed mega-mall) for 15 cents per slice, and a small coke for a dime. Now a quarter won't play the juke box. Maybe I'm not such a "youngster" after all.
More about the bridge, from our own Linda Fenton Goodgold: I remember walking home from Marsha Churnin's at dusk over the bridge and almost getting attacked by a boy on a bicycle. Marsha lived in Green Acres, and I lived on the other side of South High School, so the bridge was a common short cut. It's an unprotected area that should have a camera or something to monitor.
And about South High, from Linda Cohen Greenseid: This year's Complete List of the 1,000 Top High Schools in the United States, from Newsweek, ranked South as number 152 in the country. Who knew? http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/7723397/site/newsweek/page/2/
[Rich -- Speaking of present-day South: I sent the checks for the Vince Tampio and Booker Gibson scholarship winners to Liz King Giordano last week. That drops the balance of money I'm uncomfortably babysitting to $100 in the Tampio fund and $533 in the Gibson fund. As I've said before, the Tampio scholarship is almost completely funded by people who've pledged annual support, though I didn't call on them this year, while the Gibson scholarship is partly supported by pledges and partly by annual donations. Next year, I'll call in the Tampio pledges while continuing to pay down the Gibson money. After that, I hope to collect money annually, so I'm not always holding it. There are earthquakes in Los Angeles, you know.]
Finally, an answer from Robert Fiveson to the question, "Who is Ira Levy?"
Who is Ira Levy? Ira is a success by any measure. A titan of business and a giant among parents, as well as a true lifelong friend. Ira was also on the wrestling team in high school, where he distinguished himself not as much by how he wrestled, but by how well he filled out his uniform. A classic case of a man maturing well, Ira started out as a goofy ugly duckling and has morphed into a goofy handsome man. I think Ira could not weigh more than 5 pounds over the fighting trim he had in high school, and he certainly looks years younger than the advanced and decrepit age we are all squarely mired in.
Shortly after high school, Ira was with the Army in Korea when his family home in Lynbrook caught fire during the night. Tragically his two sisters, baby brother, mother and father all expired in the fire. Only his oldest sister Helene managed to escape. I knew them all and had spent many a loving and welcoming evening at their home. I heard the news on the radio. Ira inherited his fathers small janitorial service and has helped it grow into a multinational, well-known giant in the service industry. More than anything else, Ira is the most loving, gentle, and proud father to two of the most beautiful young women one can imagine. He is an active patron of the arts and lives in an apartment in New York City with a view of Central Park and the surrounding city that is literally breath taking. I am proud to say that I know this guy, and he is decent, humble and funny at every turn -- his lifelong goofiness notwithstanding.
The current list of people coming to the August reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names in 1965:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Tom Calise
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran
Robin Feit Baker
Alan Finder?
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Steve Gootzeit
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
The repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
Latest news on the reunion from Dennis Shapiro: I have received money from Barbara Endy Ianniello, Alan Finder, and Tom Calise, which brings the total to 34. 42 to go.
We're also waiting to see what comes from Paul DeMartino's new publicity and the effort to expand the reunion across the 60's classes. That's generated some related writing.
First, as a result of Alan Finder's note, two other classmates have written in saying they also, unfortunately, can't be at the reunion. But they'll send a hundred bucks each if we need it. That's very generous.
Along those lines: I've canceled my hotel reservations and made plans to stay with my mother in Green Acres. I'll kick my hotel money into the reunion pool. Though crawling back into my childhood bedroom is no small thing.
And we've gotten letters from two classmates slightly removed:
From Joanne Shapiro Polner, class of '61: (Please note that the following rambling is not fine writing style, but more of stream of consciousness informality; I need to tell you this because the main part of my note to you concerns teaching fine writing.)
You helped me out about four years ago when I was searching for a classmate from South's class of '59. You recommended Hy Rosov, who in turn, made a recommendation to me which led directly to the brother of my "lost person," Barbara Pincus Chehowski, now of Tucson. Then it led to her.
I write to you today to share a few pages from our family How-To Writing Folder, because I was thrilled to read the recap of your teaching program for SAT essay writing. It sounded oh-so-familiar. I might have learned it at South, from good ole Mrs. Clark, in our day -- or even Mr. Hartman. Well, I learned well; my husband Alex, from South '58, was less a writer than a future engineer and manager, so I was responsible for complementing our children's school work in the humanities, he, in the sciences.
I taught our three children to think just a bit more broadly than their excellent writing manual from their good school, Ramapo High School, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. Their graduation years were '87 and (two in) '91. But South High form was in my head, for starters. I believe that our daughters have more skills at writing than our son. I only have one extant high school composition from our son, so I'd say, writing is not his forte -- his speaking and arguments are orderly today, so he has some great stuff up there in his head!
In 1997, I became a mentor for a black Muslim teen in Alabama -- Selma, to be exact -- who had attended the same fabulous teen camp as our children, Legacy International Youth Program in Lynchburg, Virginia. But she went a couple of summers later than our kids. With the South High method -- now to be known as the Eisbrouch writing model -- imbedded in the Polner Writing Folder, and with the addition of the Ramapo High School directives, Safiyyah learned to write well. (We did it first by letter, then by e-mail. We have never met and have only exchanged photos once.) I read her college English lit assignments and advised on the editing of her papers. She just finished her first year of Law School in Miami, and I know that I played a part in sharpening her mind and writing over the years.
I have put the simple notes of the Polner Family Writing Folder in the attachment. A couple of the paragraphs on the second page, at the end, seem to refer to a particular essay question that Safiyyah had to answer, so I must have combined her mentoring with Polner children helping ideas. We have a new generation of children coming up, albeit the oldest is 6, but your letter about the SAT essay writing format has a file to itself. That's in the folder called Essay Writing on my computer -- saved for the little kids when they get to be bigger kids!
Now how did that Class of '65 e-mail with the Eisbrouch method get to me? My husband Alex was friends at South with Emily Kleinman Schreiber's brother, Stewart, now of West Hartford, Connecticut, and we both remember Emily from a South High three-class reunion. We exchanged e-mail addresses then. Alex graduated a year ahead of me -- in the first South graduating class, though I didn't know him then. We actually met after he graduated from college, and I had a year to go at a different college. My brother, Peter M. Shapiro, graduated in 1962 with Alex's brother Larry, and Peter was friends with Emily. Two years ago, Alex and I met Emily's son Michael, a photographer. I do photography as a hobby, and I know Joe Zarba, from Brooklyn, a retired middle school teacher of photography, who used to run a photographer speakers' series. I recommended Mike, and he was a great hit with the attendees last year.
Emily and I e-mail each other from time to time, as do my brother and Emily. We just received the e-mail with the South High bridge story, as well as your essay letter. I just love how we are all bound together through friendship and e-mail and South! So, there you have it -- the what and wherefore!
Best regards to all. jocem@juno.com
From Steve Cahn, class of '70: Just a few memories from a "youngster."
Mr. Sykes had me cleaning up cigarette butts on the path leading to the bridge for what seemed like a 4-year prison sentence, but was really just most of my 7th and 8th grades. My recollection is that he did NOT stay on much past '65, if at all. He was not really a part of my high school experience at South -- just in junior high.
Also, no one has ever duplicated Leo's egg salad at Molly's. I used to have it with an egg creme, a vanilla Coke, or a Lime Ricky. Sublime. I also recall pizza at "Pizza Supreme" at the Green Acres Shopping Center (which is now an enclosed mega-mall) for 15 cents per slice, and a small coke for a dime. Now a quarter won't play the juke box. Maybe I'm not such a "youngster" after all.
More about the bridge, from our own Linda Fenton Goodgold: I remember walking home from Marsha Churnin's at dusk over the bridge and almost getting attacked by a boy on a bicycle. Marsha lived in Green Acres, and I lived on the other side of South High School, so the bridge was a common short cut. It's an unprotected area that should have a camera or something to monitor.
And about South High, from Linda Cohen Greenseid: This year's Complete List of the 1,000 Top High Schools in the United States, from Newsweek, ranked South as number 152 in the country. Who knew? http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/7723397/site/newsweek/page/2/
[Rich -- Speaking of present-day South: I sent the checks for the Vince Tampio and Booker Gibson scholarship winners to Liz King Giordano last week. That drops the balance of money I'm uncomfortably babysitting to $100 in the Tampio fund and $533 in the Gibson fund. As I've said before, the Tampio scholarship is almost completely funded by people who've pledged annual support, though I didn't call on them this year, while the Gibson scholarship is partly supported by pledges and partly by annual donations. Next year, I'll call in the Tampio pledges while continuing to pay down the Gibson money. After that, I hope to collect money annually, so I'm not always holding it. There are earthquakes in Los Angeles, you know.]
Finally, an answer from Robert Fiveson to the question, "Who is Ira Levy?"
Who is Ira Levy? Ira is a success by any measure. A titan of business and a giant among parents, as well as a true lifelong friend. Ira was also on the wrestling team in high school, where he distinguished himself not as much by how he wrestled, but by how well he filled out his uniform. A classic case of a man maturing well, Ira started out as a goofy ugly duckling and has morphed into a goofy handsome man. I think Ira could not weigh more than 5 pounds over the fighting trim he had in high school, and he certainly looks years younger than the advanced and decrepit age we are all squarely mired in.
Shortly after high school, Ira was with the Army in Korea when his family home in Lynbrook caught fire during the night. Tragically his two sisters, baby brother, mother and father all expired in the fire. Only his oldest sister Helene managed to escape. I knew them all and had spent many a loving and welcoming evening at their home. I heard the news on the radio. Ira inherited his fathers small janitorial service and has helped it grow into a multinational, well-known giant in the service industry. More than anything else, Ira is the most loving, gentle, and proud father to two of the most beautiful young women one can imagine. He is an active patron of the arts and lives in an apartment in New York City with a view of Central Park and the surrounding city that is literally breath taking. I am proud to say that I know this guy, and he is decent, humble and funny at every turn -- his lifelong goofiness notwithstanding.
The current list of people coming to the August reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names in 1965:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Tom Calise
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran
Robin Feit Baker
Alan Finder?
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Steve Gootzeit
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
The repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 5-17-05
Hi,
All kinds of stuff, beginning with a very nice note:
From Alan Finder to Dennis Shapiro: I've been reading in recent weeks in Rich Eisbrouch's letters of the problems with the reunion. Like many people, I'm sure, I feel terrible about this. I probably can't attend, as I'm scheduled to be on vacation that week and have limited ability to rearrange my schedule, but I decided I'll sign up anyway and send my check in to you later this week. If I turn out to be able to go, fine. And if I can't, please consider it a donation. I hope the news of distress coaxes many classmates to commit to attending or to helping deal with the financial issues. Thanks for all your efforts on behalf of the event.
[Rich -- That made my week.]
From Liz King Giordano, who probably gets tired of being introduced as the assistant to South's current principal, Stephen Lando: The recipient of the Vince Tampio Theater Scholarship this year is Jeffrey Leshansky. The recipient of the Booker Gibson Music Scholarship this year is Anderson Lee.
[Rich -- I thanked Liz, told her the checks would be in the mail by the end of this week, and passed the news on to Booker Gibson and Linda Tobin Kettering, class of '69, who will be presenting this year's awards. Linda promptly wrote back.]
From Linda Tobin Kettering: Thanks for the update. If I remember from a few years ago, South High School prints up the scholarship certificates, right? Do you send the scholarship checks directly to the school?
Also, I have a copy of the post that you wrote on Vince after he passed away, so I can use some of that in the introduction, unless Bob Fiveson has his speech from last year! If there is anything specific you want mentioned, please let me know. Also, what were the exact years Vince taught at South? Any information anyone has that I can use is appreciated. Thanks.
[Rich -- So please send any information you have to me, and I'll pass it on to Linda.]
From Barbara Blitfield Pech: Just a few random thoughts. I am more surprised at the question about "Sen-Jun Hall," rather than one about the apple machine. Also, I will assume that Mr. Sykes stayed on long after we did, or that his memory is just legendary (no pun intended, Mr. Rosov). And speaking of Molly's: has anyone ever successfully duplicated Molly's egg salad? I watched Leo make it for years, and as simple as it was -- eggs and mayonnaise -- I have never gotten the taste to match. Any suggestions (and please don't anyone suggest that it was Miracle Whip).
From a fan who prefers to remain anonymous: The Allen Moss part of last week's letter was so funny!
[Rich -- Ya got groupies, Al]
From a different anonymous reader: Who is Ira Levy?
[Rich -- Ira, either you can explain yourself, of if Robert Fiveson would be so gracious?]
Also from Linda Tobin Kettering, a more detailed account of "The Recent Unpleasantness on the Bridge," written by N. Falco and forwarded from the online Long Island Herald: A confrontation between two Queens teens on the footbridge behind South High School last Wednesday afternoon turned violent, leaving one in critical but stable condition with multiple stab wounds and landing the other behind bars.
According to police, the 17-year-old victim, a Jamaica resident, tried to collect a $2 "toll" from suspect Michael Reed, 19, and three friends as they were crossing the bridge at about 3:15 PM. When neither the suspect nor his friends complied, police said the victim reached into Reed's pockets and tried to take his headphones and skateboard. Reed, a Rosedale resident, responded by taking out a pocket knife and allegedly stabbing the victim about five times in his back, left thigh, and chest.
The suspect fled to nearby Green Acres Mall, where he was later arrested based on witnesses' descriptions. "Police found [Reed] near the food court with blood on his hands," said Detective Lt. Robert Cuerbo of the Fifth Precinct.
Meanwhile, a few South High School students acted quickly to get the victim medical attention. They brought him into South, and school officials called 911. The victim was airlifted to Nassau University Medical Center, where he was where he was treated for multiple stab wounds and listed in critical but stable condition.
"Some of our students acted extremely well by helping the person who was stabbed into South High School to get treated, because he was bleeding badly," Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marc Bernstein said, offering an explanation to residents gathered for a budget hearing that night. "The person was brought into South High School and given emergency treatment by some members of our staff."
Neither the victim nor the suspect is a student at South, which is located on Jedwood Place, but they were near the school because each has friends who attend it, police said. "The only reason why South High School was filmed by some of the TV helicopters is because the incident occurred near the school, and because the person was brought into our school," Bernstein said.
The incident did cause confusion in the community as to who was involved, where the altercation actually occurred, and what sparked it. "It's very confusing," said Terry Gardner, who lives near the school. "Everybody's got a different story."
Immediately after the incident, the school went into lockdown mode, meaning that no one could enter or exit the building. Though the school day had ended at 2:48 PM, students were still in the building for extracurricular activities. The nearby Forest Road and Robert W. Carbonaro schools were also locked down as a precaution until the suspect was apprehended.
Reed, of 143-10 243rd Street, was charged with first-degree assault and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.
As a result of the incident, some South parents are calling for the footbridge, which is Town of Hempstead property, to be closed. The bridge serves as an easement between the school and the Mill Brook community. There is a similar bridge near North High School.
"We'll be looking into the history of the two easements," said Bernstein. "I'm also asking the administrators at each building how those two easements are used. We'll collect facts first."
Finally, OK, it's a lot easier to get a letter published in The New York Times than to get a short story published in The New Yorker. But I'd never tried the Times before. This letter was very specific, and it isn't going to change the world. It was published on May 11th. If you didn't see the May 4th article it was responding to, it was written by Michael Winerip and titled "SAT Essay Test Rewards Length and Ignores Errors." I can send you a copy.
To the Editor:
I teach SAT writing prep in Los Angeles. I don’t grade on length, but I do teach very formulaic writing, the old tech writing formula: First you tell your readers what you’re going to tell 'em; then you tell 'em; then you tell him what you told 'em.
I warn students that this is very formulaic, English-teacher writing. We hold tight to thesis sentence and five-paragraph structure. I explain that this is a lesson in logic and structure and is closer to answering a quick essay question on a test rather than to actual essay writing.
I also tell students that they’re being graded holistically, not for small, individual errors, but for the strength of their overall argument. But I don’t let them get away with errors. If they start the American Revolution in 1842, I flat out tell them that they’re wrong and drop their grades.
Strangely, I think that the SAT essay is a good writing exercise. It’s like haiku. It forces you to work fast and in a tight structure. Every student should know how to write this kind of essay. It’s the basis of all essay tests.
Rich Eisbrouch
Los Angeles, May 5, 2005
And the repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
All kinds of stuff, beginning with a very nice note:
From Alan Finder to Dennis Shapiro: I've been reading in recent weeks in Rich Eisbrouch's letters of the problems with the reunion. Like many people, I'm sure, I feel terrible about this. I probably can't attend, as I'm scheduled to be on vacation that week and have limited ability to rearrange my schedule, but I decided I'll sign up anyway and send my check in to you later this week. If I turn out to be able to go, fine. And if I can't, please consider it a donation. I hope the news of distress coaxes many classmates to commit to attending or to helping deal with the financial issues. Thanks for all your efforts on behalf of the event.
[Rich -- That made my week.]
From Liz King Giordano, who probably gets tired of being introduced as the assistant to South's current principal, Stephen Lando: The recipient of the Vince Tampio Theater Scholarship this year is Jeffrey Leshansky. The recipient of the Booker Gibson Music Scholarship this year is Anderson Lee.
[Rich -- I thanked Liz, told her the checks would be in the mail by the end of this week, and passed the news on to Booker Gibson and Linda Tobin Kettering, class of '69, who will be presenting this year's awards. Linda promptly wrote back.]
From Linda Tobin Kettering: Thanks for the update. If I remember from a few years ago, South High School prints up the scholarship certificates, right? Do you send the scholarship checks directly to the school?
Also, I have a copy of the post that you wrote on Vince after he passed away, so I can use some of that in the introduction, unless Bob Fiveson has his speech from last year! If there is anything specific you want mentioned, please let me know. Also, what were the exact years Vince taught at South? Any information anyone has that I can use is appreciated. Thanks.
[Rich -- So please send any information you have to me, and I'll pass it on to Linda.]
From Barbara Blitfield Pech: Just a few random thoughts. I am more surprised at the question about "Sen-Jun Hall," rather than one about the apple machine. Also, I will assume that Mr. Sykes stayed on long after we did, or that his memory is just legendary (no pun intended, Mr. Rosov). And speaking of Molly's: has anyone ever successfully duplicated Molly's egg salad? I watched Leo make it for years, and as simple as it was -- eggs and mayonnaise -- I have never gotten the taste to match. Any suggestions (and please don't anyone suggest that it was Miracle Whip).
From a fan who prefers to remain anonymous: The Allen Moss part of last week's letter was so funny!
[Rich -- Ya got groupies, Al]
From a different anonymous reader: Who is Ira Levy?
[Rich -- Ira, either you can explain yourself, of if Robert Fiveson would be so gracious?]
Also from Linda Tobin Kettering, a more detailed account of "The Recent Unpleasantness on the Bridge," written by N. Falco and forwarded from the online Long Island Herald: A confrontation between two Queens teens on the footbridge behind South High School last Wednesday afternoon turned violent, leaving one in critical but stable condition with multiple stab wounds and landing the other behind bars.
According to police, the 17-year-old victim, a Jamaica resident, tried to collect a $2 "toll" from suspect Michael Reed, 19, and three friends as they were crossing the bridge at about 3:15 PM. When neither the suspect nor his friends complied, police said the victim reached into Reed's pockets and tried to take his headphones and skateboard. Reed, a Rosedale resident, responded by taking out a pocket knife and allegedly stabbing the victim about five times in his back, left thigh, and chest.
The suspect fled to nearby Green Acres Mall, where he was later arrested based on witnesses' descriptions. "Police found [Reed] near the food court with blood on his hands," said Detective Lt. Robert Cuerbo of the Fifth Precinct.
Meanwhile, a few South High School students acted quickly to get the victim medical attention. They brought him into South, and school officials called 911. The victim was airlifted to Nassau University Medical Center, where he was where he was treated for multiple stab wounds and listed in critical but stable condition.
"Some of our students acted extremely well by helping the person who was stabbed into South High School to get treated, because he was bleeding badly," Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marc Bernstein said, offering an explanation to residents gathered for a budget hearing that night. "The person was brought into South High School and given emergency treatment by some members of our staff."
Neither the victim nor the suspect is a student at South, which is located on Jedwood Place, but they were near the school because each has friends who attend it, police said. "The only reason why South High School was filmed by some of the TV helicopters is because the incident occurred near the school, and because the person was brought into our school," Bernstein said.
The incident did cause confusion in the community as to who was involved, where the altercation actually occurred, and what sparked it. "It's very confusing," said Terry Gardner, who lives near the school. "Everybody's got a different story."
Immediately after the incident, the school went into lockdown mode, meaning that no one could enter or exit the building. Though the school day had ended at 2:48 PM, students were still in the building for extracurricular activities. The nearby Forest Road and Robert W. Carbonaro schools were also locked down as a precaution until the suspect was apprehended.
Reed, of 143-10 243rd Street, was charged with first-degree assault and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.
As a result of the incident, some South parents are calling for the footbridge, which is Town of Hempstead property, to be closed. The bridge serves as an easement between the school and the Mill Brook community. There is a similar bridge near North High School.
"We'll be looking into the history of the two easements," said Bernstein. "I'm also asking the administrators at each building how those two easements are used. We'll collect facts first."
Finally, OK, it's a lot easier to get a letter published in The New York Times than to get a short story published in The New Yorker. But I'd never tried the Times before. This letter was very specific, and it isn't going to change the world. It was published on May 11th. If you didn't see the May 4th article it was responding to, it was written by Michael Winerip and titled "SAT Essay Test Rewards Length and Ignores Errors." I can send you a copy.
To the Editor:
I teach SAT writing prep in Los Angeles. I don’t grade on length, but I do teach very formulaic writing, the old tech writing formula: First you tell your readers what you’re going to tell 'em; then you tell 'em; then you tell him what you told 'em.
I warn students that this is very formulaic, English-teacher writing. We hold tight to thesis sentence and five-paragraph structure. I explain that this is a lesson in logic and structure and is closer to answering a quick essay question on a test rather than to actual essay writing.
I also tell students that they’re being graded holistically, not for small, individual errors, but for the strength of their overall argument. But I don’t let them get away with errors. If they start the American Revolution in 1842, I flat out tell them that they’re wrong and drop their grades.
Strangely, I think that the SAT essay is a good writing exercise. It’s like haiku. It forces you to work fast and in a tight structure. Every student should know how to write this kind of essay. It’s the basis of all essay tests.
Rich Eisbrouch
Los Angeles, May 5, 2005
And the repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 5-10-05
Hi,
First, a series of interrelated e-mails.
From Robin Feit Baker to Barbara Blitfield Pech, Eric Hilton, Robert Fiveson and others: While listening to Long Island cable news, I heard a report of a stabbing on the footbridge by Valley Stream South High. Apparently, it was a by nineteen-year old male, and they later caught him at Green Acres Mall. If I read more information, I'll tell you about it.
From Robert Fiveson to Robin Feit Baker, Barbara Blitfield Pech, Eric Hilton and others: In my humble opinion, it's only by the grace of God that it never happened while we were there.
From Eric Hilton to Robin Feit Baker, Barbara Blitfield Pech, Robert Fiveson and others: This is such disturbing news. I remember sneaking a smoke on that bridge, just to look cool (but I never inhaled), or hanging out after returning from Molly’s. It is so different in Valley Stream now. I was so distraught when I sold my parents' home on Avondale Street, but I needed a change of life after my brother Ed died, so I moved to Sarasota, Florida. The last time I visited Valley Stream, I drove down Rockaway Avenue and noticed how depressed the avenue looked. It’s just not the town I grew up in any longer, which is too bad, as I feel we all grew up in one of the nicest towns in America and could never have asked for a more wonderful place! This stabbing saddens me deeply!
From Mark Hillman, who was one of Barbara Blitfield Pech's "others," to Robin Feit Baker, Barbara Blitfield Pech, Eric Hilton, Robert Fiveson and others: Hi to all. Bob Fiveson? As I might recall, didn’t you have a brother who hung out with Jay Turk, Ira Levy, and Richie McDonald?
Also, a year ago, my overseas flight to Russia was delayed by a day, and I took a taxi to Green Acres Mall and then on to Jasmine Lane, where I once lived. My house was obviously not the same, and when I walked to da “bridge,” it brought back many memories of hell night between Omega vs. Delta, and man, oh, man, way too many beers.
From Robert Fiveson to Mark Hillman, Robin Feit Baker, Barbara Blitfield Pech, Eric Hilton and others: The guy who hung with Tuerk was me. I still do. We were brothers then and still are. Ira Levy and I are still as close as we were when we shared our first "out of the house and on our own" apartment in Far Rockaway (a dump where we had to stuff towels in the door jamb to keep the snow out, and we would rotate who got up at 5 AM to turn on the oven and all the gas jets to warm the place!) Ira is still in touch with Richie McDonald. Real friendships don't die; they just season and mellow like fine bourbon.
End of forwards. Over and out.
Next, also from Robert Fiveson, and possibly political or possibly comic; I haven't checked: Please post this in the next newsletter. It's a flash animation which explains why Bush's Social Security plan is perhaps not such a great idea. It is family-approved. http://www.bushin30years.org/view/winner.html?flash_id=87
From Paul DeMartino: Newsday called today about my reunion notice request. They will run it on Sunday, May 22. At least, let's hope they do. Also, I heard from Louise Wiemer and Jimmy Lorey this week. Both send their regards and their regrets as they will not be able to attend the reunion. I'll keep you all posted as things develop.
From Steve Cahn, class of '70: I will send on your reunion invitation to the mailing list for the class of '70.
[Rich -- I thanked Steve, of course.]
Some suggestions from another member of another class: I don't know if you're aware of a website called LongIsland.com. When I once tried a search on it, the site came up with ways to advertise class reunions. You might want to try it.
Also, in addition to Newsday, you might want to advertise in The Long Island Press, which is back in publication.
From our detail man, Dennis Shapiro: The message from Paul in last week's newsletter could give the impression that everyone attending the Friday night party will have to pay $25.00. The $25.00 was only meant for those who could not attend Saturday and wished to come Friday night. I realize that the notes at the bottom of the newsletter clarify this, but some people might not check there so might get the wrong impression. I spoke with Paul about this, and he agreed, so I am just bringing it to your attention.
Also, I think things are starting to pick up some, and that is a very good sign.
[Rich -- Notice corrected. Thanks. And good news about the pick-ups.]
Comment from a far younger, former South student: Pretty cool. Everyone is rising to the occasion. Also, a question: Last week, Barbara Blitfield Pech made reference to "Sen-Jun Hall" and "Molly's." What are they? Places? What kind? Please explain.
[Rich -- I explained. Which was far less painfully done than explaining to five SAT students I tutor what a phonograph was.]
Always happily anticipated news from Allen Moss in Maine: Hello from Maine, folks. I wanted to e-mail and thank all the people who are working so hard to see that this year's reunion is a success in ALL ways. Our New England Valley Stream South High contingent will be ably represented in August by Dennis and Benette (Steindam) Pizzimenti, Judy Peters Sylvan, and me! Sorry I cannot be of more help in contacting people, but all the people who I have stayed in touch with are, fortunately, coming to the reunion!
Well, after an incredibly snowy and cold winter (which I loved), we were all ready for the beauty of ... two weeks of continuous and torrential rain! My area got more than twice the amount of last year's rain, and many places got three-to-four times the amount. Fortunately, there was no major flooding, but our beautiful Kennebec and Androscoggin rivers were stunning to watch in all their power. I can only hope that all the rain will pave the way for some beautiful tree, shrub, and flower displays for the summer. I know I have to get off my butt soon and get going with lots of outside landscaping projects that I have been thinking about during the winter.
During those long snowy and rainy days, I continued to enjoy Terri Donahue Calamari's surprise gift to me of some of the old-time television shows now on DVD. Terri, I've got to say, some of those were quite a revelation. They ranged from pleasantly nostalgic, to slightly creaky, to downright god-awful and embarrassing. But those were a form of sweet torture. It was quite a shock, though, to see good old Sky King looking a LOT older and paunchier than I remembered him as a kid. But THAT PLANE (The Songbird), what I wouldn't give to have that to take trips in!
I continue to live up to my reputation for Allen "Living in the Past" Moss. Hmmmm, wasn't that the first cut from that great Steve Miller Band vinyl, "Sailor?" Come on, you former Valley Stream South High late '60s druggies, fess up and help me out! Anyway, it was a struggle, but I finally did some remodeling in my ranch house by actually replacing the ORIGINAL 1959 ceiling fixtures with beautiful brushed-brass-and-oak-blade ceiling fans. But I gotta tell you, I was having a genuine Woody Allen anxiety attack when it came to replacing my original 1959 linoleum bathroom floor. I realized the end was near when pieces of the floor started to get wedged in my vacuum! That, plus a few pointed comments to me like: "Get a life," "Time to move on," "You are NOT Theodore Cleaver even though you THINK you are still living in that era." So I have worked through another existential angst issue related to my desire to continue living in the 1950s, and I replaced the floor with some very nice contemporary ceramic tile.
But I continue to add to my collection of Marx vintage play sets from our bygone Baby Boomer days. One of the rarest ones sold on E-bay a while ago for $5800.00 Original price at your local Sears-Roebuck in 1955 ... $7.98! Regrettably my collection does not contain anything of that high a value, but it certainly is lots of fun seeking these items out. It's sort of a form of antiquing, but on a smaller scale.
Of course, I am looking forward to August and a chance to be with many people that I have only been e-chatting or talking to by telephone. I hope we will be able to see some teachers who did not make the last reunion, like Irv Saffrin and Janet Porter Rylander. It is already May and that great weekend will be coming up before we know it.
I want to especially say to Grace Dibble that I KNOW, in my heart of hearts, that I will see you in August, and I am very much looking forward to it. It was a most wonderful experience talking with you at the last reunion. Let's plan on a repeat performance!
Best to all.
Finally, sad news from Roz Minsky Bobrow: Enclosed is the information from my mother's obituary. Please pass it on to the class. Thanks.
Minsky, Helene, 87, died on Wednesday, April 27, 2005, in Long Beach, New York. Born in New York City, daughter of the late Kathryn (Schweiger) H. M. Jaret and Milton Hymes, of New York City, she leaves her beloved husband Joseph of 64 years; her sister Caryl and Bert Barruch, of Toronto, Canada; and her daughters, Marion and Lee Morgenstein, of New York City and Vermont, and Roz and Alec Bobrow, of West Hartford; her grandchildren Susan and Pete MacDonald; Marc and Kim Bobrow; Rachel and David Steinberg; James and Jen Morgenstein; and Stephen and Gabby Garschina Bobrow; and four great grandchildren Sydney, Jacob, Esperanza, and Luke. She was predeceased by her twin sister Mildred Bloom. A graduate of Fashion Institute of Technology, she was a fashion designer in New York City. After returning to work in the 1950s, she worked for Nassau County, Long Island, and retired in 1984 as Assistant Real Property Tax Assessor. Funeral arrangements were private. Shiva will be observed at the home of her daughter Roz Bobrow, 29 Winchester Drive, West Hartford, from Monday, May 2nd until Friday morning. Donations may be made to the Beth El Temple Library Fund or the donor’s choice.
[Rich -- Our best, of course, to Roz and her family]
Finally, the recently-updated repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
First, a series of interrelated e-mails.
From Robin Feit Baker to Barbara Blitfield Pech, Eric Hilton, Robert Fiveson and others: While listening to Long Island cable news, I heard a report of a stabbing on the footbridge by Valley Stream South High. Apparently, it was a by nineteen-year old male, and they later caught him at Green Acres Mall. If I read more information, I'll tell you about it.
From Robert Fiveson to Robin Feit Baker, Barbara Blitfield Pech, Eric Hilton and others: In my humble opinion, it's only by the grace of God that it never happened while we were there.
From Eric Hilton to Robin Feit Baker, Barbara Blitfield Pech, Robert Fiveson and others: This is such disturbing news. I remember sneaking a smoke on that bridge, just to look cool (but I never inhaled), or hanging out after returning from Molly’s. It is so different in Valley Stream now. I was so distraught when I sold my parents' home on Avondale Street, but I needed a change of life after my brother Ed died, so I moved to Sarasota, Florida. The last time I visited Valley Stream, I drove down Rockaway Avenue and noticed how depressed the avenue looked. It’s just not the town I grew up in any longer, which is too bad, as I feel we all grew up in one of the nicest towns in America and could never have asked for a more wonderful place! This stabbing saddens me deeply!
From Mark Hillman, who was one of Barbara Blitfield Pech's "others," to Robin Feit Baker, Barbara Blitfield Pech, Eric Hilton, Robert Fiveson and others: Hi to all. Bob Fiveson? As I might recall, didn’t you have a brother who hung out with Jay Turk, Ira Levy, and Richie McDonald?
Also, a year ago, my overseas flight to Russia was delayed by a day, and I took a taxi to Green Acres Mall and then on to Jasmine Lane, where I once lived. My house was obviously not the same, and when I walked to da “bridge,” it brought back many memories of hell night between Omega vs. Delta, and man, oh, man, way too many beers.
From Robert Fiveson to Mark Hillman, Robin Feit Baker, Barbara Blitfield Pech, Eric Hilton and others: The guy who hung with Tuerk was me. I still do. We were brothers then and still are. Ira Levy and I are still as close as we were when we shared our first "out of the house and on our own" apartment in Far Rockaway (a dump where we had to stuff towels in the door jamb to keep the snow out, and we would rotate who got up at 5 AM to turn on the oven and all the gas jets to warm the place!) Ira is still in touch with Richie McDonald. Real friendships don't die; they just season and mellow like fine bourbon.
End of forwards. Over and out.
Next, also from Robert Fiveson, and possibly political or possibly comic; I haven't checked: Please post this in the next newsletter. It's a flash animation which explains why Bush's Social Security plan is perhaps not such a great idea. It is family-approved. http://www.bushin30years.org/view/winner.html?flash_id=87
From Paul DeMartino: Newsday called today about my reunion notice request. They will run it on Sunday, May 22. At least, let's hope they do. Also, I heard from Louise Wiemer and Jimmy Lorey this week. Both send their regards and their regrets as they will not be able to attend the reunion. I'll keep you all posted as things develop.
From Steve Cahn, class of '70: I will send on your reunion invitation to the mailing list for the class of '70.
[Rich -- I thanked Steve, of course.]
Some suggestions from another member of another class: I don't know if you're aware of a website called LongIsland.com. When I once tried a search on it, the site came up with ways to advertise class reunions. You might want to try it.
Also, in addition to Newsday, you might want to advertise in The Long Island Press, which is back in publication.
From our detail man, Dennis Shapiro: The message from Paul in last week's newsletter could give the impression that everyone attending the Friday night party will have to pay $25.00. The $25.00 was only meant for those who could not attend Saturday and wished to come Friday night. I realize that the notes at the bottom of the newsletter clarify this, but some people might not check there so might get the wrong impression. I spoke with Paul about this, and he agreed, so I am just bringing it to your attention.
Also, I think things are starting to pick up some, and that is a very good sign.
[Rich -- Notice corrected. Thanks. And good news about the pick-ups.]
Comment from a far younger, former South student: Pretty cool. Everyone is rising to the occasion. Also, a question: Last week, Barbara Blitfield Pech made reference to "Sen-Jun Hall" and "Molly's." What are they? Places? What kind? Please explain.
[Rich -- I explained. Which was far less painfully done than explaining to five SAT students I tutor what a phonograph was.]
Always happily anticipated news from Allen Moss in Maine: Hello from Maine, folks. I wanted to e-mail and thank all the people who are working so hard to see that this year's reunion is a success in ALL ways. Our New England Valley Stream South High contingent will be ably represented in August by Dennis and Benette (Steindam) Pizzimenti, Judy Peters Sylvan, and me! Sorry I cannot be of more help in contacting people, but all the people who I have stayed in touch with are, fortunately, coming to the reunion!
Well, after an incredibly snowy and cold winter (which I loved), we were all ready for the beauty of ... two weeks of continuous and torrential rain! My area got more than twice the amount of last year's rain, and many places got three-to-four times the amount. Fortunately, there was no major flooding, but our beautiful Kennebec and Androscoggin rivers were stunning to watch in all their power. I can only hope that all the rain will pave the way for some beautiful tree, shrub, and flower displays for the summer. I know I have to get off my butt soon and get going with lots of outside landscaping projects that I have been thinking about during the winter.
During those long snowy and rainy days, I continued to enjoy Terri Donahue Calamari's surprise gift to me of some of the old-time television shows now on DVD. Terri, I've got to say, some of those were quite a revelation. They ranged from pleasantly nostalgic, to slightly creaky, to downright god-awful and embarrassing. But those were a form of sweet torture. It was quite a shock, though, to see good old Sky King looking a LOT older and paunchier than I remembered him as a kid. But THAT PLANE (The Songbird), what I wouldn't give to have that to take trips in!
I continue to live up to my reputation for Allen "Living in the Past" Moss. Hmmmm, wasn't that the first cut from that great Steve Miller Band vinyl, "Sailor?" Come on, you former Valley Stream South High late '60s druggies, fess up and help me out! Anyway, it was a struggle, but I finally did some remodeling in my ranch house by actually replacing the ORIGINAL 1959 ceiling fixtures with beautiful brushed-brass-and-oak-blade ceiling fans. But I gotta tell you, I was having a genuine Woody Allen anxiety attack when it came to replacing my original 1959 linoleum bathroom floor. I realized the end was near when pieces of the floor started to get wedged in my vacuum! That, plus a few pointed comments to me like: "Get a life," "Time to move on," "You are NOT Theodore Cleaver even though you THINK you are still living in that era." So I have worked through another existential angst issue related to my desire to continue living in the 1950s, and I replaced the floor with some very nice contemporary ceramic tile.
But I continue to add to my collection of Marx vintage play sets from our bygone Baby Boomer days. One of the rarest ones sold on E-bay a while ago for $5800.00 Original price at your local Sears-Roebuck in 1955 ... $7.98! Regrettably my collection does not contain anything of that high a value, but it certainly is lots of fun seeking these items out. It's sort of a form of antiquing, but on a smaller scale.
Of course, I am looking forward to August and a chance to be with many people that I have only been e-chatting or talking to by telephone. I hope we will be able to see some teachers who did not make the last reunion, like Irv Saffrin and Janet Porter Rylander. It is already May and that great weekend will be coming up before we know it.
I want to especially say to Grace Dibble that I KNOW, in my heart of hearts, that I will see you in August, and I am very much looking forward to it. It was a most wonderful experience talking with you at the last reunion. Let's plan on a repeat performance!
Best to all.
Finally, sad news from Roz Minsky Bobrow: Enclosed is the information from my mother's obituary. Please pass it on to the class. Thanks.
Minsky, Helene, 87, died on Wednesday, April 27, 2005, in Long Beach, New York. Born in New York City, daughter of the late Kathryn (Schweiger) H. M. Jaret and Milton Hymes, of New York City, she leaves her beloved husband Joseph of 64 years; her sister Caryl and Bert Barruch, of Toronto, Canada; and her daughters, Marion and Lee Morgenstein, of New York City and Vermont, and Roz and Alec Bobrow, of West Hartford; her grandchildren Susan and Pete MacDonald; Marc and Kim Bobrow; Rachel and David Steinberg; James and Jen Morgenstein; and Stephen and Gabby Garschina Bobrow; and four great grandchildren Sydney, Jacob, Esperanza, and Luke. She was predeceased by her twin sister Mildred Bloom. A graduate of Fashion Institute of Technology, she was a fashion designer in New York City. After returning to work in the 1950s, she worked for Nassau County, Long Island, and retired in 1984 as Assistant Real Property Tax Assessor. Funeral arrangements were private. Shiva will be observed at the home of her daughter Roz Bobrow, 29 Winchester Drive, West Hartford, from Monday, May 2nd until Friday morning. Donations may be made to the Beth El Temple Library Fund or the donor’s choice.
[Rich -- Our best, of course, to Roz and her family]
Finally, the recently-updated repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Former teachers comped for both parties, and we're trying to attract as many of
our former teachers as possible.
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution per person is
requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net The hotel's Phone Number is: 631-845-1000. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 5-3-05
Hi,
Nothing like accidentally spamming a hundred members of your former high school class. That's why many of you got sometimes multiple e-mail messages from Classmates.com last Friday morning. I got two. Ray Staley got four. All of which means that Classmates.com is useless as a means of contacting people. Instead of sending the reunion invitation I prepared, Classmates sent a message asking people to pay to join the site so they could read the invitation. Many of you probably let your spam filters block the message, which was a good choice.
While I was on the Classmates site, I also poked around to see if I could post our reunion notice for other former classes. But it seems I can only post one notice, for our own year, and when I tried to post on the shared electronic bulletin board, the site crashed my computer. Twice. Not fun. Not useful.
So I'm sorry about all the spam, and I clearly won't do that again. But I am grateful to Classmates.com for providing the list that started this reunion four years ago. Though if you remember, my intent was to circulate a free list of our e-mail addresses and bypass Classmates.com completely. Now, the only reason I'll go on that site is to see if someone we've been looking for has checked in.
But this does put the weight of contacting people on their friends. The best way to meet people at the reunion is to call them and say you're going. And if you're even thinking of going, please let us know.
Meanwhile, from Paul DeMartino: So far, I've sent out about 75 e-mail invitations. Barbara Blitfield Pech is contacting about 25 people. Ellen Epstein Silver is writing another 8 to 10. Terri Donohue Calamari is contacting a large number of South alums from assorted classes. And Dennis Shapiro and Robin Feit Baker are tracking down people and attempting to contact them. I've also reached the class of '67 and my sister will be attending, possibly with some members of her group. Through Barbara Endy, we have 2 people coming from the class of '66, and Tom McPartland from the class of '64 will be there. Some of his other former classmates may join him, and perhaps other classes will be interested in having their own tables at the dinner. I'll keep you posted as we get more responses.
Also, after speaking with Dennis Shapiro, we both agree that Friday night can have a separate charge for people only coming that night, and $25 seems fair. There will be a cash bar and just a boombox and free snacks, but there should be at least $25 worth of good times from mixing with one's former classmates. I would term the charge a "contribution" to help defray the costs of the reunion, and mention that we'll happily accept all other contributions. People should send their $25 Friday-night checks in advance to Dennis. Note: people who are coming Friday and Saturday nights, don't have to pay a separate fee for Friday night.
Terri also suggested placing an ad in the local Valley Stream newspaper, and I'll try and do that. I sent out my notice to Newsday last Friday, changing our party from a class of '65 reunion to an all classes from the 60s party. Terri is doing fine, by the way, enjoying Florida and her boat. As usual, she sounded upbeat.
From Dennis Shapiro: Please add Jay Berliner and Peggy Galinger Menaker to the list.
From Jay Berliner: I’m sorry I was delayed in sending my check. I was in China for the last 3 weeks, and it takes about 3 to 4 weeks to prepare for the trip. I travel to China once or twice a year on business, though after 10 years, it's not as enjoyable as it once was.
Also, some thoughts about fund raising: Have a 50/50 lottery, with half going to the winner and half to the house.
Part of Barbara Blitfield Pech's e-mail to her friends: Greetings to All. On behalf of the class of '65, I offer an open invitation to all people interested in attending our 40th reunion, Aug 5th to 7th, on Long Island. We have arranged to make our 40th a fitting tribute to shared friendships, old and new. This will be even better than our 37th, because we won't get reprimanded for noise. Although, in my warped sense of pseudo-adult outlook, I thought that was tres cool, and I pull out the bragging rights often. With this in mind, we've asked, "Why limit it just to our class?" So we are opening the weekend to everyone who went to South in the 60s, even those who didn't graduate in 1965 (still the best year, and the class that still ROCKS!) You are also encouraged to forward this to friends and family from South. My thought is that with enough of us, from all classes, it will be the biggest flashback to South Hall, the gym. Sen-Jun Hall, the apple machine, pep rallies, football games, Molly's, Wetsons, the bridge, Green Acres Shopping Center, and detention with Mr. Sykes. It will be a whole bunch of fun without needing a hall pass! The South Will Rise Again ... in August!
P.S. Please pass this note, and don't let the teacher see you.
[Rich -- With all that in mind, we need to start compiling a list of the former teachers we want to contact and invite. Of course, Booker Gibson will be there, and the hope is that he'll play the song he and Vince Tampio wrote. Other people who've been mentioned are, in no particular order: Bernie O'Brien, Theresa Margolin Bargeman, Toni Rea, Janet Porter Rylander, Hy Rosov, Mr. Caruso (whose first name I can't get to at the moment), Martin Solomon, Irv Saffrin, Bill Linkner, and the various Mr. Seamen. Who else? Who knows where these people are? Who knows where to find more former teachers? Please send us names, and we'll do what we can. A special reward is out for reuniting Larry Rugen with Herta Apfel.]
Meanwhile the list of class of '65 people coming to the reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names at graduation:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello Calvacca
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran
Robin Feit Baker
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Steve Gootzeit
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
The repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Phone Number: 631-845-1000, during daytime business hours. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Teachers comped for both parties
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution is requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
Nothing like accidentally spamming a hundred members of your former high school class. That's why many of you got sometimes multiple e-mail messages from Classmates.com last Friday morning. I got two. Ray Staley got four. All of which means that Classmates.com is useless as a means of contacting people. Instead of sending the reunion invitation I prepared, Classmates sent a message asking people to pay to join the site so they could read the invitation. Many of you probably let your spam filters block the message, which was a good choice.
While I was on the Classmates site, I also poked around to see if I could post our reunion notice for other former classes. But it seems I can only post one notice, for our own year, and when I tried to post on the shared electronic bulletin board, the site crashed my computer. Twice. Not fun. Not useful.
So I'm sorry about all the spam, and I clearly won't do that again. But I am grateful to Classmates.com for providing the list that started this reunion four years ago. Though if you remember, my intent was to circulate a free list of our e-mail addresses and bypass Classmates.com completely. Now, the only reason I'll go on that site is to see if someone we've been looking for has checked in.
But this does put the weight of contacting people on their friends. The best way to meet people at the reunion is to call them and say you're going. And if you're even thinking of going, please let us know.
Meanwhile, from Paul DeMartino: So far, I've sent out about 75 e-mail invitations. Barbara Blitfield Pech is contacting about 25 people. Ellen Epstein Silver is writing another 8 to 10. Terri Donohue Calamari is contacting a large number of South alums from assorted classes. And Dennis Shapiro and Robin Feit Baker are tracking down people and attempting to contact them. I've also reached the class of '67 and my sister will be attending, possibly with some members of her group. Through Barbara Endy, we have 2 people coming from the class of '66, and Tom McPartland from the class of '64 will be there. Some of his other former classmates may join him, and perhaps other classes will be interested in having their own tables at the dinner. I'll keep you posted as we get more responses.
Also, after speaking with Dennis Shapiro, we both agree that Friday night can have a separate charge for people only coming that night, and $25 seems fair. There will be a cash bar and just a boombox and free snacks, but there should be at least $25 worth of good times from mixing with one's former classmates. I would term the charge a "contribution" to help defray the costs of the reunion, and mention that we'll happily accept all other contributions. People should send their $25 Friday-night checks in advance to Dennis. Note: people who are coming Friday and Saturday nights, don't have to pay a separate fee for Friday night.
Terri also suggested placing an ad in the local Valley Stream newspaper, and I'll try and do that. I sent out my notice to Newsday last Friday, changing our party from a class of '65 reunion to an all classes from the 60s party. Terri is doing fine, by the way, enjoying Florida and her boat. As usual, she sounded upbeat.
From Dennis Shapiro: Please add Jay Berliner and Peggy Galinger Menaker to the list.
From Jay Berliner: I’m sorry I was delayed in sending my check. I was in China for the last 3 weeks, and it takes about 3 to 4 weeks to prepare for the trip. I travel to China once or twice a year on business, though after 10 years, it's not as enjoyable as it once was.
Also, some thoughts about fund raising: Have a 50/50 lottery, with half going to the winner and half to the house.
Part of Barbara Blitfield Pech's e-mail to her friends: Greetings to All. On behalf of the class of '65, I offer an open invitation to all people interested in attending our 40th reunion, Aug 5th to 7th, on Long Island. We have arranged to make our 40th a fitting tribute to shared friendships, old and new. This will be even better than our 37th, because we won't get reprimanded for noise. Although, in my warped sense of pseudo-adult outlook, I thought that was tres cool, and I pull out the bragging rights often. With this in mind, we've asked, "Why limit it just to our class?" So we are opening the weekend to everyone who went to South in the 60s, even those who didn't graduate in 1965 (still the best year, and the class that still ROCKS!) You are also encouraged to forward this to friends and family from South. My thought is that with enough of us, from all classes, it will be the biggest flashback to South Hall, the gym. Sen-Jun Hall, the apple machine, pep rallies, football games, Molly's, Wetsons, the bridge, Green Acres Shopping Center, and detention with Mr. Sykes. It will be a whole bunch of fun without needing a hall pass! The South Will Rise Again ... in August!
P.S. Please pass this note, and don't let the teacher see you.
[Rich -- With all that in mind, we need to start compiling a list of the former teachers we want to contact and invite. Of course, Booker Gibson will be there, and the hope is that he'll play the song he and Vince Tampio wrote. Other people who've been mentioned are, in no particular order: Bernie O'Brien, Theresa Margolin Bargeman, Toni Rea, Janet Porter Rylander, Hy Rosov, Mr. Caruso (whose first name I can't get to at the moment), Martin Solomon, Irv Saffrin, Bill Linkner, and the various Mr. Seamen. Who else? Who knows where these people are? Who knows where to find more former teachers? Please send us names, and we'll do what we can. A special reward is out for reuniting Larry Rugen with Herta Apfel.]
Meanwhile the list of class of '65 people coming to the reunion, listed alphabetically by their last names at graduation:
Joan Aries Cleven
Jay Berliner
Barbara Blitfield Pech
Linda Cohen Greenseid
Peggy Cooper Schwartz
Paul DeMartino
Teresa Donahue Calamari
Rich Eisbrouch
Barbara Endy Ianniello Calvacca
Ellen Epstein Silver
Carol Ewig Duran
Robin Feit Baker
Henry Gabbay
Peggy Galinger Menaker
Steve Gootzeit
Art Halprin
Judith Hartstone
Marilyn Horowitz Goldhammer
Stuart Kandel
Ralph Kramer
Ira Mitzner
Allen Moss
Lynn Nudelman Villagran
Judy Peters Sylvan
Dennis & Benette Pizzimenti
Rachel Robinson Rizzo
Peter Rosen
Irene Saunders Goldstein
Dennis Shapiro
Danny Stellabotte
Mark Yetman
The repeating reunion information:
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Phone Number: 631-845-1000, during daytime business hours. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Teachers comped for both parties
NOTE: If you just want to come to the Friday night party, a $25 contribution is requested.
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Update 4-26-05
Hi,
More good ideas about the reunion, pretty much in the order they arrived.
From Emily Kleinman Schreiber: I certainly understand your dilemma. I really sweated the class of '61's Big Birthday Bash -- we'd guaranteed 90 people and only 60 paid. Luckily, it was at the Knights of Columbus in Oceanside, and we'd had a few other reunions there, so they lowered the minimum.
Also for your information: we've been involved with two multi-class reunions. '61, '62, and '63 had their 1-2-3 Reunion back in the '90s, and the classes of '58, '59, '60 had their Blast From The Past. I also convinced their organizers to let my "younger" class of '61 have a "Blast" with them in 2000. Mixed grade reunions are fun for people who had friends in the other grades, but some other people were turned off by it. Personally, I thought it was great, since I hadn't seen many of the "older" classmates in so many years.
I've already sent a notice to my class, so you may be hearing from some of them as we are a very partying group and there might be some people who'd enjoy hanging out with you younger folk (tee hee!) or just having a party to go to. Empathetically yours.
Part of Emily's invitation to her class: Several years ago I CRASHED the class of '65 reunion (I was really invited!) I stayed a short time and met some of the teachers I hadn't seen since our South days -- like Mrs. Margolin, Mr. Schmidt, and Mr. Caruso. And it was fun to see that I really don't look any older than the "girls" who are four years younger than we are. So go, if you want to help the class of '65 celebrate their 40th!
[Rich -- We thank you for passing on the invitation, Em, and we'll try not to look too much younger.]
From Jerry Bittman: Are all you people blind? You are concerned about losing money on the reunion. Easy Solution -- just advertise that you are going to have Linda Iaquinto in a $10.00 kissing booth, and people from all over will flock to the reunion. BRILLIANT!
[Rich -- As I wrote Jerry: Linda's husband, Dennis O'Hara, would hurt us.]
From Jay Gladky: Please remove me from the mailing list. Thanks.
[Rich -- I'm not sure if Jay doesn't want to be contacted by his old friends, or if he just doesn't want to hear weekly from me. So react appropriately.]
From Nick Messina: I enjoy receiving your e-mails. Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend the reunion. As a suggestion, for the whatever it's worth -- did you ever consider approaching our sister schools (North and Central). They will also be celebrating a 40th. I recall there was a big rivalry with North, but, hey, things change in 40 years. It may be last minute for North and Central folks, but we already have the venue, and all they need to do is round up the troops. (Sorry, about that -- you can take the man out of the military, but can't take the military out of the man!) Maybe they can arrange a breakout session (hospitality suite) for themselves, then, afterwards, everyone can drink together, dance together, and eat together. (Hey, the worst that could happen is a good old fashion, Animal House food fight!)
Just a thought. Good Luck.
[Rich -- It's a good idea, Nick. Thanks. And I'll wear an old suit, just in case the desserts start flying.]
From Ellen Nudelman Davidson: Steve and I have a wedding to attend on the Saturday night of the reunion, but we'd be interested in just coming on Friday night if you open it up to a separate charge for that evening. And thanks for all that all of you are doing to organize everything.
[Rich -- My instinct is to say, "Just show up on Friday night," but I suspect that our volunteer accountants, Paul DeMartino and Dennis Shapiro, would clobber me faster for saying that than Dennis O'Hara would get Jerry Bittman for kissing Linda Iaquinto. So I'm suggesting the 25 bucks each that was mentioned last week. Anyone else have any suggestions for the Friday night cost?]
From Linda Cohen Greenseid: Sorry, I meant to respond to last week's intelligent plea. I love the way you put it out there for us to solve ourselves. I must say it worked. I really had not planned to go, but your description of the unenviable position our organizers were in, and my friend Ellen Epstein Silver's charming urging, changed my mind. Dennis will have my check early next week. See you there.
[Rich -- Of course, I get to see Linda when she's in LA visiting her son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. Now, everyone will get to see the baby's pictures.]
From Dennis Shapiro: Just to let you know that I received checks from Steve Gootzeit and Carol Ewig Duran, and an e-mail from Barbara Endy. Barbara feels terrible about what is happening, and she will be sending in her money. She will also try to pick up some people along the way. It seems that people are starting to wake up to what is really happening.
[Rich -- Henry, Steve, Carol, Barbara, Linda. 46 to go.]
From Marc Jonas: Found this when going through memory lane with my mother (a grade school photo of Marc, Andy Dolich, Bobby Fisher?, and someone else in little winter coats and hats). Hope all is well.
[Rich -- And I'd love to say that I've already posted this photo on the home page. But, actually, I just took a whole lot of photos off the page when I finally deleted the old, still-frozen site. As I mentioned several weeks ago, I'm in the process of rebuilding the Contact Information / Bios / Current Photos section of the home page, and it will take me several months. Part of this is 'cause I'm lazy, but the main reason is it's very mouse-finger-intensive work, and my joints aren't all that flexible.]
From Paul DeMartino: I have not yet mailed Newsday the request for a Valley Stream South Reunion of the Classes of the 60s and was hoping to hear what others had to say. Also, my sister Elaine, class of '67, tells me that while she is interested, she is not really in contact with her classmates. Does anyone know how we can send direct notes to other classes inviting them to participate? I'm aware that some classes have their own websites, and we can contact them immediately. It is the other classes without such Internet access that present the challenge. We need classmates and their younger / older brothers and sisters to make some calls.
[Rich -- I'm in contact with several classes, and they'll be notified. But, as Linda Cohen Greenseid pointed out, a personal call from a friend is often the best encouragement. Plus, it gives you a chance to catch up.]
On a different, far more serious subject, some news from Grace Dibble Kincade: I know I haven't written in a while, but I do enjoy reading the newsletters. My main reason for writing is to let you all know that after eight wonderful years as a cancer survivor, I have a recurrence of my breast cancer; it's now metastasized in the lining of my lungs.
I have survived this once and plan to do it again. I have a wonderful support system from family and friends all over the country. Two of those that I can count on are Barbara Blitfield Pech and Ellen Epstein Silver, and I would not have them back in my life if it had not been for our 37th reunion. Both understand the impact of a cancer diagnosis, and both are two of the most caring people in the world. Barbara called immediately and sent me a wonderful care package. I was also able to have a great visit with Ellen last week while visiting my family in the Dallas area. I only wish we could get together more often.
Depending on my chemo schedule and on how I am feeling, I may still try to make the 40th reunion. Of course, that will be a fairly last-minute decision. Meanwhile, my best wishes to all.
Ellen Epstein Silver follows up: Grace is very upbeat, I think she looks great, and I told her so.
[Rich -- And as I just wrote Grace: she's in my thoughts, and I know that she's in other people's. If you'd like to write her directly, her e-mail address is: glkincade@sbcglobal.net]
Finally, some long overdue recognition for Robert Fiveson, from the Washington (DC) Times, April 21, 2005: 1979's 'Clonus' predicts medical-ethics nightmare
An isolated clone farm provides the antiseptically sinister setting for Clonus ($19.95), a distressingly prescient 1979 sci-fi gem rescued from obscurity by the international specialists at Mondo Macabro (www.mondomacabrodvd.com). It's our ... DVD pick of the week.
Secretly financed by government honchos who harvest unwitting victims for organ replacements, Clonus is run like an Olympic training camp, where the brain-washed young-adult clones hone their bodies to athletic perfection, all in the hopes of an eventual graduation to "America."
But when smarter-than-your-average-clone Richard (Tim Donnelly) happens upon a stray Old Milwaukee beer can, that random discovery kick-starts a quest that threatens to expose the wide-ranging conspiracy.
Clonus (originally Parts: The Clonus Horror, which is still the on-screen title) works best when focusing on the chilling clone farm and its poignant, doomed residents. The film's third act seems a bit rushed after the brilliant buildup, but Clonus recovers in time to reach a disturbing climax.
In addition to fine turns by Mr. Donnelly and his clone squeeze, Paulette Breen, Clonus benefits from a veteran cast that includes Peter Graves; Keenan Wynn; and "Bewitched" alum Dick Sargent, uncharacteristically cast as Dr. Jamison, Clonus' coldblooded commandant.
Mondo Macabro's pristine widescreen transfer represents a vast improvement over Lightning Video's long-vanished VHS version. A revealing audio commentary by, and separate lengthy interview with, debuting feature-film director Robert S. Fiveson round out the extras. Though largely overlooked in its time, this low-budget labor of love receives a much-deserved second life here.
The repeating reunion information (temporarily minus the attendee list for lack of space):
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Phone Number: 631-845-1000, during daytime business hours. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Teachers comped for both parties
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
Hi,
More good ideas about the reunion, pretty much in the order they arrived.
From Emily Kleinman Schreiber: I certainly understand your dilemma. I really sweated the class of '61's Big Birthday Bash -- we'd guaranteed 90 people and only 60 paid. Luckily, it was at the Knights of Columbus in Oceanside, and we'd had a few other reunions there, so they lowered the minimum.
Also for your information: we've been involved with two multi-class reunions. '61, '62, and '63 had their 1-2-3 Reunion back in the '90s, and the classes of '58, '59, '60 had their Blast From The Past. I also convinced their organizers to let my "younger" class of '61 have a "Blast" with them in 2000. Mixed grade reunions are fun for people who had friends in the other grades, but some other people were turned off by it. Personally, I thought it was great, since I hadn't seen many of the "older" classmates in so many years.
I've already sent a notice to my class, so you may be hearing from some of them as we are a very partying group and there might be some people who'd enjoy hanging out with you younger folk (tee hee!) or just having a party to go to. Empathetically yours.
Part of Emily's invitation to her class: Several years ago I CRASHED the class of '65 reunion (I was really invited!) I stayed a short time and met some of the teachers I hadn't seen since our South days -- like Mrs. Margolin, Mr. Schmidt, and Mr. Caruso. And it was fun to see that I really don't look any older than the "girls" who are four years younger than we are. So go, if you want to help the class of '65 celebrate their 40th!
[Rich -- We thank you for passing on the invitation, Em, and we'll try not to look too much younger.]
From Jerry Bittman: Are all you people blind? You are concerned about losing money on the reunion. Easy Solution -- just advertise that you are going to have Linda Iaquinto in a $10.00 kissing booth, and people from all over will flock to the reunion. BRILLIANT!
[Rich -- As I wrote Jerry: Linda's husband, Dennis O'Hara, would hurt us.]
From Jay Gladky: Please remove me from the mailing list. Thanks.
[Rich -- I'm not sure if Jay doesn't want to be contacted by his old friends, or if he just doesn't want to hear weekly from me. So react appropriately.]
From Nick Messina: I enjoy receiving your e-mails. Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend the reunion. As a suggestion, for the whatever it's worth -- did you ever consider approaching our sister schools (North and Central). They will also be celebrating a 40th. I recall there was a big rivalry with North, but, hey, things change in 40 years. It may be last minute for North and Central folks, but we already have the venue, and all they need to do is round up the troops. (Sorry, about that -- you can take the man out of the military, but can't take the military out of the man!) Maybe they can arrange a breakout session (hospitality suite) for themselves, then, afterwards, everyone can drink together, dance together, and eat together. (Hey, the worst that could happen is a good old fashion, Animal House food fight!)
Just a thought. Good Luck.
[Rich -- It's a good idea, Nick. Thanks. And I'll wear an old suit, just in case the desserts start flying.]
From Ellen Nudelman Davidson: Steve and I have a wedding to attend on the Saturday night of the reunion, but we'd be interested in just coming on Friday night if you open it up to a separate charge for that evening. And thanks for all that all of you are doing to organize everything.
[Rich -- My instinct is to say, "Just show up on Friday night," but I suspect that our volunteer accountants, Paul DeMartino and Dennis Shapiro, would clobber me faster for saying that than Dennis O'Hara would get Jerry Bittman for kissing Linda Iaquinto. So I'm suggesting the 25 bucks each that was mentioned last week. Anyone else have any suggestions for the Friday night cost?]
From Linda Cohen Greenseid: Sorry, I meant to respond to last week's intelligent plea. I love the way you put it out there for us to solve ourselves. I must say it worked. I really had not planned to go, but your description of the unenviable position our organizers were in, and my friend Ellen Epstein Silver's charming urging, changed my mind. Dennis will have my check early next week. See you there.
[Rich -- Of course, I get to see Linda when she's in LA visiting her son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. Now, everyone will get to see the baby's pictures.]
From Dennis Shapiro: Just to let you know that I received checks from Steve Gootzeit and Carol Ewig Duran, and an e-mail from Barbara Endy. Barbara feels terrible about what is happening, and she will be sending in her money. She will also try to pick up some people along the way. It seems that people are starting to wake up to what is really happening.
[Rich -- Henry, Steve, Carol, Barbara, Linda. 46 to go.]
From Marc Jonas: Found this when going through memory lane with my mother (a grade school photo of Marc, Andy Dolich, Bobby Fisher?, and someone else in little winter coats and hats). Hope all is well.
[Rich -- And I'd love to say that I've already posted this photo on the home page. But, actually, I just took a whole lot of photos off the page when I finally deleted the old, still-frozen site. As I mentioned several weeks ago, I'm in the process of rebuilding the Contact Information / Bios / Current Photos section of the home page, and it will take me several months. Part of this is 'cause I'm lazy, but the main reason is it's very mouse-finger-intensive work, and my joints aren't all that flexible.]
From Paul DeMartino: I have not yet mailed Newsday the request for a Valley Stream South Reunion of the Classes of the 60s and was hoping to hear what others had to say. Also, my sister Elaine, class of '67, tells me that while she is interested, she is not really in contact with her classmates. Does anyone know how we can send direct notes to other classes inviting them to participate? I'm aware that some classes have their own websites, and we can contact them immediately. It is the other classes without such Internet access that present the challenge. We need classmates and their younger / older brothers and sisters to make some calls.
[Rich -- I'm in contact with several classes, and they'll be notified. But, as Linda Cohen Greenseid pointed out, a personal call from a friend is often the best encouragement. Plus, it gives you a chance to catch up.]
On a different, far more serious subject, some news from Grace Dibble Kincade: I know I haven't written in a while, but I do enjoy reading the newsletters. My main reason for writing is to let you all know that after eight wonderful years as a cancer survivor, I have a recurrence of my breast cancer; it's now metastasized in the lining of my lungs.
I have survived this once and plan to do it again. I have a wonderful support system from family and friends all over the country. Two of those that I can count on are Barbara Blitfield Pech and Ellen Epstein Silver, and I would not have them back in my life if it had not been for our 37th reunion. Both understand the impact of a cancer diagnosis, and both are two of the most caring people in the world. Barbara called immediately and sent me a wonderful care package. I was also able to have a great visit with Ellen last week while visiting my family in the Dallas area. I only wish we could get together more often.
Depending on my chemo schedule and on how I am feeling, I may still try to make the 40th reunion. Of course, that will be a fairly last-minute decision. Meanwhile, my best wishes to all.
Ellen Epstein Silver follows up: Grace is very upbeat, I think she looks great, and I told her so.
[Rich -- And as I just wrote Grace: she's in my thoughts, and I know that she's in other people's. If you'd like to write her directly, her e-mail address is: glkincade@sbcglobal.net]
Finally, some long overdue recognition for Robert Fiveson, from the Washington (DC) Times, April 21, 2005: 1979's 'Clonus' predicts medical-ethics nightmare
An isolated clone farm provides the antiseptically sinister setting for Clonus ($19.95), a distressingly prescient 1979 sci-fi gem rescued from obscurity by the international specialists at Mondo Macabro (www.mondomacabrodvd.com). It's our ... DVD pick of the week.
Secretly financed by government honchos who harvest unwitting victims for organ replacements, Clonus is run like an Olympic training camp, where the brain-washed young-adult clones hone their bodies to athletic perfection, all in the hopes of an eventual graduation to "America."
But when smarter-than-your-average-clone Richard (Tim Donnelly) happens upon a stray Old Milwaukee beer can, that random discovery kick-starts a quest that threatens to expose the wide-ranging conspiracy.
Clonus (originally Parts: The Clonus Horror, which is still the on-screen title) works best when focusing on the chilling clone farm and its poignant, doomed residents. The film's third act seems a bit rushed after the brilliant buildup, but Clonus recovers in time to reach a disturbing climax.
In addition to fine turns by Mr. Donnelly and his clone squeeze, Paulette Breen, Clonus benefits from a veteran cast that includes Peter Graves; Keenan Wynn; and "Bewitched" alum Dick Sargent, uncharacteristically cast as Dr. Jamison, Clonus' coldblooded commandant.
Mondo Macabro's pristine widescreen transfer represents a vast improvement over Lightning Video's long-vanished VHS version. A revealing audio commentary by, and separate lengthy interview with, debuting feature-film director Robert S. Fiveson round out the extras. Though largely overlooked in its time, this low-budget labor of love receives a much-deserved second life here.
The repeating reunion information (temporarily minus the attendee list for lack of space):
When: August 5th, 6th, 7th (Friday night through Sunday noon)
Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York, 11747
Cost: $100 per person
Phone Number: 631-845-1000, during daytime business hours. Ask for the Reservations Desk and mention our class reunion discount. Hotel rooms should be $129/night.
Reunion Package Includes:
Friday night cocktail party with snacks and cash bar (7:00 PM -- Midnight)
Saturday night buffet with open bar & DJ (7:00 PM -- Midnight; Dinner at 8:00)
Lobby area with cash bar available both nights to continue parties
Teachers comped for both parties
SEND: Checks to Dennis Shapiro. 495 Wateredge Avenue, Baldwin, New York, 11510. Please make them out to: VSS 40th Reunion.
Also: Since there are a limited number of Friday night hotel rooms being held, please e-mail Dennis Shapiro when you've made your reservations so he can lobby for more. His e-mail address is: dshapiro@optonline.net
The home page: http://hometown.aol.com/vssouth65
Rich
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