Walter M. Williams High School Class of 1972

 
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Class of '72 Bulldog Blog!! 

Tell us what you've been up to . . .

George
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Author:Diane Moran Mays
Date:Jun 17, 2008 09:17 AM 

(added from Yahoo group by Margaret)
Good morning to all.  I have been reading your messages, and it has been nice to see what you have been up to in the few years that have passed since graduation. 
 
I am still living in Alamance County (made the big move to Graham about 20 years ago), and have been married to Allen Mays (Class of 1970) for over 34 years.  We have two sons, Brandon (32) and Ryan (27), and they are both married.  We have one granddaughter (age 2) and two step-grandchildren (ages 10 and 13).  Allen is retired from the Sheriff's Department.  I have been working at Wishart, Norris, Henninger & Pittman for over 30 years as a paralegal.  I have no plans to retire - I never imagined I would be using the word RETIRE when speaking about myself, as I can't possibly be that old!  The years have  flown by, and seem to go faster all the time. 
 
God has blessed us with good health (for the most part) and a wonderful family.  We have been preoccupied for the past three years or so with our elderly parents and their many health issues.  My mother died in January of 2006 and Allen's father passed away in December of 2006.  I know a lot of you have had to face the same issues that we have. 
 
I will be checking the blog frequently to keep up with you all.  Stay cool.
Diane Moran Mays



Author:Diane Moran Mays
Date:Jun 17, 2008 08:40 AM 

It's great to hear what everyone has been up to. 

 

More later



Author:ron martin
Date:May 28, 2008 04:52 PM 

hello all,

hope your holiday weekend was a good one... the weather here at the beach was yukky on saturday for most of the day but then turned wonderful saturday afternoon and for sunday & monday.... left the boat in the slip on sunday, which was a good choice from what friends told me.. lots of crazies on the water but took it out on monday for several hours.... just went to the beach on sunday.... put sun screen everywhere except my back and then stood up for a long, long time... guess what got the heck burned out of it.... itches like crazy today... its been tough getting back into the work mode after a long weekend.... of course dreama doesn't have to worry about that now... well just thought i would give margret a break.... oh by the way... thanks for the card lady.... smiles and best wishes to all

gotta run

 



Author:Margaret
Date:May 23, 2008 09:40 AM 

Well, I've decided I'm just going to blog with myself until someone else gets the urge . . .  Tuesday night we had a great time at Kimbers in Gibsonville.  Each time we meet, we seem to enjoy each other more!

In July, we're going to go hear Louis, Dr. Johnny, and some guy named Bodle.  I missed the last 'band on the run' gig and hope to make this one.  We'll post the details closer to the event.  Onward Bulldogs . . .



Author:Margaret Blythe Adams
Date:May 16, 2008 03:21 PM 

Okay folks, it's time for someone else to leave a message on this blog . . .

 

Sadly, I have to report the loss of the mom's of two of our classmates.  Claudia Ward McCoy's mother passed away today at about 4 p.m.  Lorraine Morris's mom died last week.

 

The funeral for Claudia's mother will be next Friday, May 23rd, at 10:30 a.m. at Rich & Thompson Funeral Service in Burlington.  The family will receive friends after the service.

 

Claudia's and Lorraine's addresses can be found on the Classmate Addresses . . . link to the left.

 

love to all,

 

Margaret



Author:Margaret
Date:Mar 26, 2008 02:28 PM 

From Vicki Franz:

 

 

Just wanted to let everyone know
Margie Hinsdale's (Frick) father passed away last night in Winston Salem.
Arrangements are being made now.
Memorial Services will be held at Hayworth Miller Funeral Home in Kernersville, NC at 4pm on Saturday , March 29 followed by visitation with the family.
 
Hayworth-Miller-Cain Funeral Home
141 Smith Edwards Road
Kernersville, NC 27284
 
I know Margie and her family would love to hear from you.
 
Margie and Mark Hinsdale
7229 Belews Creek Rd
Belews Creek, NC  27009



Author:it's me .....AGAIN
Date:Mar 13, 2008 08:40 PM 

We're going to gather again in "The Garden of Edens" (he-he-he)

 

2015 GURNEY CT...........6:30..........THURSDAY, MARCH 20

 

Call (584-2661) or e-mail charlotteme@bellsouth.net if you'd like to bring an appetizer or a beverage and let me know if you're coming!   (Sorry regulars).....but we need some new faces too!!!......so ya'll come on out!! 

 

So far we're going to see.......Margaret (broken foot and all!!), Paula (crab spread & cocktail sauce), Susan (wine & salad), Kathy (spinach dip and crackers), Donna, Drema, Martha, Anita, Verne, and Joe.



Author:charlotte
Date:Mar 1, 2008 08:24 AM 

"THREE BAND NIGHT!!!"

 

Sound great Louis!!!!  A Talent Show to Remember....(especially those that can't remember the first one in '71).........

 

I'm going to try and reserve a block of seats......e-mail me if you want a seat.......and spread the word!!!

 

See ya on the 14th,

c



Author:Louis Allen
Date:Feb 28, 2008 01:48 PM 

Bulldogs!  On Friday March 14, the Paramount Theater will see an entertainment spectacular unmatched since Little Stevie Wellons poured vegetable soup over the balcony rail on Mr. Guthrie as the boat went upside down in The Poseiden Adventure. 

 

THREE!  Not one, not two, but THREE bands featuring the best, or at least not the worst, of the classes of 1968,1971 and 1972.

 

Do you remember Ham and Eggs, from their talent show performances?  No?  Well, me neither, but I'm told Jimmy Harper ('71) was the ham and Gary Mitchell was the yolky guy.  Today they front for the ridiculously popular bands Civil Defense and Molasses Creek.  Jim teams up with Gary Cole ('68) and John Lindley (Southern Alamance).  Gary has his wife, Kitty, Dave the Little Fiddle Boy, and Lou Castro from Ocracoke, as well as Gerald Hampton from out in the woods somewhere.  Both groups sing and play like they have good sense.  It's like magic.

Do you remember your class president Johnny Warren and the class fool, yours truly?  I know you do, so don't lie to me.  It may not be a good memory.....in fact, it probably isn't, but that's neither here not there.  I'm not here to apologize, but I will say that we are both considerably nicer than we were (I'm about 50 pounds nicer).  Thanks to our teaming up with Rob Bodle 30-some years ago, we have mellowed like good cheese and now sing to 10s of  people up and down the East Coast (don't make me define what I mean by "East Coast") in the cleverly named trio, Warren, Bodle & Allen.

This will be the first time all three groups have played on the same stage.  Arrangements have been made with the Alamance County Sheriff's department to lift the ban on members of The Flying Raviolis (WHS talent show, 1971) which has kept Gary Mitchell and I from entering the county at the same time.  We had to agree not to wear spandex.  That hurts, but it's worth the sacrifice to play at the Paramount.  Tickets will be on sale at the Paramount; $15 in advance and $18 at the door.  You can call their box office at 336-222-TIXS.

 

For those of you who saw John, Gary or me at the reunion, just know that we look and act much younger on stage.  Please show up so we don't have to report you to Coach Hodge.

 

Louis Allen



Author:charlotte
Date:Feb 26, 2008 04:42 PM 

Dear '72 Dogs,

Well, I've already got a super update!  Read the e-mail below from George....... 

 

 

----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, February 25, 2008 9:19 PM
Subject: Fw: [SPAM] [WalterWilliamsHigh1972] Chuck Roberts' daughter Kasey needs our help!!

Hej Charlotte!
 
My youngest brother, David, has a daughter who is trying to go to SA this summer and they are members of a UCC church on Front Street.  Is this the same fund-raising effort for the group or is it just for her?  
I wrote him back............
> George.......
I forgot that one of the other girls was your niece!!!  Yes, Amy is
> going too......along with one other girl.  Amy is such a great girl.  She's my
> son, Richard's age and they both went to Hillcrest together.  Amy has really
> blossomed into a charming, lovely young lady.
>
> These donations are just going to fund Kasey's trip.  The church is paying for
> the other two to go.....but since this is Kasey's second time........she has to
> come up with the money herself.  She is a remarkable person and I want to help
> her return to South Africa.  
 Is it okay with you for me write something in the blog about Amy????   I'd love to let
> them know that TWO of "our girls" are going................
>


> George sent me another e-mail that included his involvements.............
" Tom and I have been extremely active in support ing AID Atlanta, AIDS Walks as well as coordinating the efforts for the annual Pediatric AIDS holiday parties which I got a grass  roots support group at Georgia Tech to support.  It has grown from a handful of people in my department to all across the campus.   Kasey's efforts are well appreciated by those of us who are trying to help those with AIDs and who are HIV positive. 
 My check is in the mail to UCC in Burlington!  And thanks for sending this announcement out.  I challenge the WHS72 class to support this effort as well!  Make a difference...."
You read it here folks.........George has sent out a challenge.........Go ahead and step up to the plate!!!!
Thanks gang,
c
 


Author:charlotte
Date:Feb 24, 2008 08:20 PM 

Dear ones,

 

I have a special request!!! 

 

Kasey Roberts is Chuck (and Kay) Roberts daughter ………. and is Michie’s, my daughter's best friend.  She is a 2006 WHS graduate and is currently in her sophomore year at Lenoir-Rhyne, majoring in Nursing. She needs our help and support. 

 

In 2005 Kasey visited an orphanage in South Africa through a leadership program offered by the United Church of Christ.  The experience had a huge impact on her life.  Kasey became attached to the children many of which were orphaned after their parents had died from HIV or AIDS……..especially one little girl, Tsidi.  You ought to see Kasey’s pictures!!! (Check out the great write-up in the Times News on 2/08/2008.)

 

She wants to return to participate in the 15-day Summer Global Experience this summer in Lesotho and South Africa and she can’t do it without our help!!  The cost for her is $3,000 and there are many ways for us to help!! 

 

The First Reformed United Church of Christ is planning an auction on March 15 (2:00) to raise money for her to participate on the trip.  They need donated items to be auctioned, people to attend, and buyers!  You can call 228-1793 to have items picked up.

 

Or  you can make monetary donations payable to “First Reformed United Church of Christ” / Attn: South Africa trip/ 513 West Front Street, Burlington 27215.

 

Please help Kasey.  She’s a remarkable person!  Kasey said, “We are all human.  How can we sit back and not try to make it right?  We HAVE to come together.  We’ve got to fight for life.”  We need to help her all we can…….she’s so deserving and the children Africa will be touched by her sense of humanity………she is our good-will ambassador.  She’s making the world a better place……..

 

Help with your:

Monetary Donations: “First Reformed United Church of Christ” / Attn: South Africa trip/ 513 West Front Street, Burlington 27215.

Auction Donations:  228-1793

Attend the Auction:  March 15, 2:00 at the First Reformed United Church of Christ

 

If you can help with one of the above or cannot…..please hold Kasey in your prayers.

 

(Thanks so much for once again letting me up on my soap-box.)

Always,

Charlotte

 

PS  I’ll keep you posted on her progress…………..



Author:Joe Rouse
Date:Feb 19, 2008 05:32 PM 

Charlotte and Margaret, thanks for mentioning my Mother's passing on the blog and the kind words. Several classmates came to the memorial service which I really appreciated. Please take care and see you soon.

 

Joe Rouse



Author:Charlotte
Date:Feb 18, 2008 07:35 PM 

Great article (and picture) in the Thursday Feb 14, Alamance News featuring Marie Alston (Emma Curry to us!!) announcing the release of her new CD, Still Singing His Praises.  The CD can be ordered through: womenbydesign.org  and "possibly" soon through New Direction, Inc. in Graham.  All the songs on the CD are the songs that she sings at women's conferences.  They range from Southern gospel, a little pop, a little country, a little rock, "to reach out across the miles to all different cultural divides". 

 

We're proud of our Emma!!!



Author:Margaret
Date:Feb 18, 2008 08:43 AM 

Here's the mailing address I have on file for Joe:

 

1604 Banbury Rd.

Raleigh, NC  27607

 

 



Author:charlotte
Date:Feb 17, 2008 07:58 AM 

Dear all,

 

Wanted to let you know that Joe Rouse's Mother passed away on Feb 16.  The family will receive friends at the Lowe Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday, Feb 19 from 10:00 until 10:45 and the memorial service is to follow at 11:00.  You can sign the online register book at www.lowefuneralhome.com.  More information was in the Times News on Sun, Feb 17.

 

Joe, our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

 

God bless,

Charlotte

 

 



Author:Margaret Blythe Adams
Date:Feb 16, 2008 07:39 AM 

In loving Memory
Bonnie Jean Wells Cantrell
 
Bonnie Jean Wells Cantrell, 53, of 1529 Melody Lane passed away Thursday, February 14, 2008 at her home. She was formerly employed with LabCorp and was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church.  Condolences may be sent to her daughter:
Carla Cantrell
2165 Fann Trail
Elon, NC  27244
You may sign the online register book at:  www.lowefuneralhome.com
Memorials can be made to :
Hospice and Palliative Care of Alamance County
914 Chapel Hill Rd.
Burlington, NC  27215
Bonnie was my friend since 7th grade at Turrentine.  She had beautiful red hair, an infectious laugh, and I truly enjoyed being around her.


Author:Charlotte
Date:Jan 16, 2008 12:48 PM 

Hey ya'll,

 

A few updates...............Phil Sumner's Dad passed away Jan 11 and we want him to know that we are thinking of him during this difficult time and that he is in our prayers.  The visitation is Friday Jan 18, 12:30 - 2:00 with the service to follow (2:00) at Rich and Thompson on Church St.  The obituary is in today's Times News. 

 

Also..............Happy news!.........Donna Howe Webb has recently married.

 

Thirdly.......we're still on for tomorrow night (6:30) at Kimber's (through rain, sleet or snow...........you know the routine!)  Looks like around 15 people!!!

 

Drive carefully tomorrow,

Charlotte

 

 



Author:Kathy Harris
Date:Jan 14, 2008 02:13 PM 

If you're checking in on the blog and haven't heard, we are having a mini-reunion on Thursday night, 1/17 at Kimbers Restaurant in Gibsonville.  The event is a "dutch" dinner and it starts at 6:30 pm. The restaurant  address is 230 W. Main St in the metropolis of Gibsonville and the phone number is 336.449.6411. Emails were sent to those addresses we had to folks in the W/S-GBO/BBB/Raleigh areas--a lot came back--we may need to update them, but about 16 of us have pledged to be the there and we're looking forward to it.  JOIN US if you can. Just tell the hostess you're with the WHS group and they'll usher you to the back room, where we can mingle and talk and eventually get around to eating..........Very good food. PLEASE email if you can come, so I can keep a list of who to expect. (kathy.humble@reedbusiness.com)  Hope to see you there!!


Author:John Nicholson
Date:Jan 13, 2008 08:20 AM 

Been off-line for awhile - lotsa work..  My sympathies to Margaret, Don, and Ted on the passing of their respective parents.  And what was up with Kurt?  (Joel - you send lot's of stuff over the net - why no word?)   Glad Caludia coming along well.

 

Best to all.  Those in W-S area feel free to call. 

 



Author:Janet White Fehskens
Date:Jan 7, 2008 12:04 PM 

Hi, Everyone!

I just began a new job at the University of Buffalo and so far have nothing to do but read the Bulldog Blog!  My husband and daughter have been in Burlington this week, he had vacation time and she's between semesters and they've had the good pleasure of seeing my (their) family while.  Today is my sweetheart's birthday and he's in 70+ degree weather - what a great present.  My friends and my kids are all over the place.  Thank goodness for the internet.  Keep in touch,

janet



Author:Paula Atwater
Date:Dec 30, 2007 01:48 PM 

Dear friends,

     I wanted to let each of you know about Margaret Adams's mother passing away suddenly Friday evening.  Please keep Margaret and her family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult time.  The family will be at Rich & Thompson tomorrow from 12:30 - 2:00 to receive friends and then the service is in the Rich & Thompson Chapel at 2:00. 

     Margaret.....our thoughts are with you.

 

Love,

Paula

 



Author:Claudia Ward McCoy
Date:Dec 23, 2007 01:39 PM 

Dear friends,

 

I have been looking forward to the day when I could personally sit at the computer and let you know what an awesome group you are! I just read all of the blogs and thank all of you for keeping touch and especially for your prayers. It has been a very long road since the morning of October 30th and your support shown in so many ways has helped me navigate the way! I do appreciate my husband for writing aka the mystery writer.

 

Janet, I got such a laugh out of the e-mail to the hospital and treasured every one of them. I will always remember Susan Anderson sticking her head into my room holding the flowers from the class which I could not have in ICU and returning 5 days later with the same flowers which she had rearranged for me to have once I was out of ICU.She was determined for me to see that she had survived several broken backs! ( One is enough, thank-you!) Thanks for the many cards and e-mails which my husband faithfully brought to me.Thanks for the food and the faithful visits including the group of carolers who showed up at my door last night which included Caren Hobbs, Louis Allen and Gary Mitchell and their families.

 

Thanks for your continued prayers as my journey is still in process.It will be several months before I am back to where I was before October 30. I will be fairly homebound for the next few weeks and would love to receive visits from any of you.Please call first since I am going to outpatient therapy now. I am looking forward to driving again and enjoying more gettogethers from the class of 72. Thanks so much to all of you who have worked so hard to keep us connected through the good and the not so good!

 

 

I wish everyone of you from the class of 72 and your families a very Merry Christmas and a very happy and healthy New Year and please be careful in your attics!(Believe me, it's not worth the battle)   Sincerely, Claudia Ward McCoy in person!  

 



Author:Jan Ennis
Date:Dec 20, 2007 07:25 AM 

Love the Christmas Party Pix! Ya'll look great. I am sorry I missed the festivities. Happy Holidays to All.


Author:Charlotte and Kathy
Date:Dec 12, 2007 07:51 AM 

Donna C is coming!!

 

I've heard (directly or indirectly) from Johnny N, George S, Athena M, Kaye S, Joe R, Brant B, Janet E, Denise D, Susi and Darrell that they can't (but wanted to) come..........

 

Anyone else????



Author:Charlotte
Date:Dec 11, 2007 12:38 PM 

Eddie Walker and Margaret B have let me know that they were coming too!!

 



Author:Charlotte
Date:Dec 11, 2007 08:25 AM 

Hey '72 dawgs,

Please try and join in this Thurs if you can.  The more the merrier and.....tis the season to be merry.  (If you'd like........beer and wine will be there to add to the merriment.)   Kathy and I are looking forward to seeing Verne, Susan A, Susan B, Drema, Paula, Debbie R, Martha, and Jane.  (Check out snapfish and I'll add the pictures soon.) 

It's not too late to come by.  We just have a great time munching, chatting and laughing.........

If you can't make it, we'll miss you.

Have a wonderful holiday season!

Blessings,

Charlotte and Kathy

PS  To get to Charlotte's......Heading away from town on Edgewood Ave (past Turrentine area)......Take a right on Gurney St......The second street on the right is Gurney Ct......I'm at the end of the court.........2015

 



Author:Charlotte
Date:Dec 4, 2007 08:42 PM 

FYI:

I read in the paper that Don Huffman's mother passed on 11/30.  I spoke with him at the reunion and he told me that his mom had been in poor health for quite some time and that he was the main care-giver. (click the 'classmate addresses, e-mails, etc' link at the left to find Don's mailing address)

 

Take care,

Charlotte

 

 

(PS Kathy and I hope to see ya'll next Thurs (12/13)...........BBQ will be ready!!!) 



Author:from Claudia
Date:Nov 25, 2007 08:31 AM 

note from Margaret:  This is one of those 'mystery writer' e-mails from Claudia.  I think it's her husband.  Here's the latest news:

She's BAAACK!!!!

     They couldn't keep her down at the hospital, so they sent Claudia home - the day before Thanksgiving.  In no time flat, Judy brought over a scrumptious Thanksgiving meal from all the folk at work.  Maria flew in the next day from The Big Apple to celebrate homecoming with her mom for a few days. Then the home services therapist came the next day to see how she was progressing, and left us with some very positive comments about her progress and plans for the next few weeks.
     What can I say?  God is GOOD!!!!!. The magic carpet ride of the past three weeks has landed us back home in great shape.  We are SO grateful to each and every one of you who have under girded our faith, uplifted our spirits and encouraged us in word and deeds with your supportive love and prayers.
     Three plus weeks down and three plus months to go.  Most of this next month will be in house (arrest) therapy, and much needed R and R, with occasional visits to one doctor or another.  Field trips, I think they used to be called...  We are fully expecting and anticipating seeing many of you who have expressed a desire to help out as you can.  Helen Parrish is coordinating the who, when and how of all that.  Call us if you need her number.
     Claudia's props include a corset (her closest and dearest friend), a back and chest brace, a shower stool, a toilet seat, a walker and wheel chair.  There are a few other gizmos she uses from time to time.  I am sure many of you know of these things from personal experience, and can commiserate with her, and maybe give some advice on tricks about using them more effectively.
     Please forgive us if the focus of these updates has been Claudia..  We have MORE than once wondered if part of God's plan in all of this isn't to slow us down to be able to focus on  the many blessings He has given us, including having you in the core of our community of saints.  Claudia and I are committed to better our communications with you all, and to discover how WE can better prayerfully be a support to you, as you have been to us.
     So, what details would you have me include in the next update?
here's Claudia's e-mail:  cwmccoylcsw@yahoo.com


Author:Kathy Harris Humble
Date:Nov 20, 2007 12:15 PM 

Well it's the day before the day before Thanksgiving and I just thought I'd BLOG and say I am SO thankful for the excellent chance to reunite with all of YOU!  Truly one of the highlights of this past year was getting ready for and attending our reunion and then being able to continue the fire started there with this blog. How great to have a support system like this for our "declining years" as my mom always call them.  I look forward to sharing joys and sorrows and tears and cheers with all of you for another 35 years or so!!  Happy Thanksgiving!! Kathy


Author:Margaret
Date:Nov 16, 2007 08:38 AM 

I posted the e-mail.  It was sent to me by someone who calls themselves Claudia's myster writer. I put it here so people would have an update.   I have no idea who wrote it.  Could be her husband.   We'll have to ask Claudia!


Author:Jan Ennis
Date:Nov 15, 2007 08:35 PM 

So glad to hear Claudia is moving steadily along the path to wellness. I know this must be so difficult for her and our prayers are certainly with her each day.

But I'm curious. What's up with the mystery writer thing? Is there some compelling reason someone can't just post normally and let us know what's happening with Claudia?



Author:New e-mail from Claudia's "mystery writer"
Date:Nov 14, 2007 01:17 PM 

Received this today.  Do not know who the author is.  Dying to find out!!

      (Maybe this is round three...  with the attic winning the first.  Well, let's call it the END  of round two.)
     As I (the mystery writer) write, Claudia lies in room 4030 at Moses Cone's Rehab Unit, but not as much as the first week at her stay in the hospital. This is because she is getting up, with minimal, but mandatory help quite often for therapy, strolls around the hallways, to go to the bathroom or simply because she is tired of bedlife.  Imagine that!
     God chose two skillful and most caring physicians in Dr. Cohen and Dr. Burney.  We cannot speak well enough of them.  Now she is in the caring hands of the floor nurses and staff, and physical and ocupational therapists who are expressing very positive progress reports every day.  By the time she has a departure date, three or four key care givers will have agreed on the date.  Current estimates range between this weekend (optimisticly) and Thanksgiving weekend (conservatively).
     Claudia's daily frame of mind continues to be most positive, AND grateful to God for all of her caregivers, and especially for all of the many expressions of love and support for her and our family from you.  She looks forward to each and every card and email, every one of which has been so creatively displayed around the room by Christy. 
     As we begin round three of this ordeal, on the home front,  "the water spot" on the ceiling is no more.  Neither is the big hole it caused.  Tomorrow, the contractors should be finished with the rehab on the ceiling and the bedroom will be back to the way it looked October 30, 6 am. The rest of the house will take a little longer to clean up...
     Visitation hours are from 4:30-8:30 on weekdays and 1:30-8:30 on weekends.  Claudia looks forward to visits, but asks for your understanding that at any given time you may drop by, you may find her wagging her head a bit from the pain mediacation, affecting her alertness and cheerfulness.
     We are looking forward with anticipation to this Thanksgiving (hopefully at home) and to the next few weeks of outpatient and home therapy, with the help of many of you whom we can't thank enough for the many expressions of willingness to help out any which way you can.  We WILL be calling on you. 
     Feel free to call and ask for any missing details, as I am sure there are many I have missed, or not had the time to include.  Thank you again one and all for your love and prayers. 
     To be continued.


Author:Anita
Date:Nov 12, 2007 03:40 PM 

I haven't talked with her yet but MARHTA ALLRED CLINE and me are ready for a field trip.  My vote is for NYC but I dearly LOVE Vegas.  I personally couldn't go to San Francisco without Randy because he'd KILL me.  (He really wants to go.)  I'm trying to keep up with Claudia but I'm not one to read this blog regularly.  PLEASE just call me!  I said numerous prayers for Magaret's husband and Dreama's husband.  Obviously, at least one was answered.  I'll check with Drema tomorrow.  Stay in touch

 

Anita Royall Jones



Author:Kay Jones Pardue
Date:Nov 12, 2007 07:21 AM 

Update on Claudia-

She asked me to let everyone know that she is improving greatly.  She is in rehab at Moses Cone.  Still in room 4030.  She really appreciates all the cards, flowers, emails, phone calls, and especially everyone's prayers.  She expects to be in rehab for at least the next week but says she will be home for Thanksgiving.  Her pain seems to be managed now but please continue to remember her.  She asked me to specifically thank the wonderful Class of 72 for the beautiful flower arrangement that was sent to her.  Visiting hours are 4:30 to 8:30 Monday-Friday and 1:30 to 8:30 on the weekends. 

Kay Jones Pardue 



Author:Jan Ennis
Date:Nov 10, 2007 05:23 PM 

Hi All,

It's such great news to log on and find that Margaret's husband's surgery has been cancelled. Trusting that is a really great sign. Let's all keep Drema's husband in our thoughts for Monday, and of course Claudia and Beth Ellington, as well. One of the best things about maintaining a blog and an email list is that it does give the ability to stay in touch not only for fun and festivity, but for more important issues of support.

We are all at the age where health issues, as well as the loss of a parent become more apparent and knowing some support is there sometimes makes all the difference in the world. Thanks to all of you who have kept the rest of us who may not be so close by in the loop with the latest news. I really appreciate that. My thoughts are certainly with all of you who are going through some very challenging times.

On a bit of a lighter note, its a beautiful day here in Arizona and I'm feeling relaxed after a much-needed midday massage and a visit to the Farmer's Market for some fresh produce. Tomorrow I am working with a group from Virginia (here in Tucson) working on a candidate's Presidential Campaign. Any guesses who??  I'll make it easy on you. It's Hillary Clinton. Now that baseball season is over I don't have to rush back and forth between Tucson and Scottsdale and actually have time to work on things here and a couple of paintings, some writing, and take a music class before spring training and the brunt of tax season.

Yes, it's true. I'm diving into music--specifically percussion. I'll find a small niche for myself somewhere in that sphere. I'm drawn to jazz and there are some handmade African percussion instruments that appeal to me too. So, look out neighbors---I'll have to log some practice time! Fortunately, the neighborhood here in Tucson is a bit ecclectic. The next door neighbors even have chickens in the back yard. Fresh eggs are a godsend!

What's everyone doing for the Thanksgiving Holiday??

 



Author:Margaret Blythe Adams
Date:Nov 9, 2007 02:40 PM 

Well wonder of wonders!!  Kurt had a CT scan this afternoon and they have decided to cancel his surgery.  Praise God!!


Author:Drema Bland Holder
Date:Nov 9, 2007 10:35 AM 

Please keep my husband Jim in your thought and prayers on Monday, 11/12/97.  He is having a heart catheterization to see if he has any blockade.


Author:Margaret
Date:Nov 9, 2007 07:28 AM 

Didn't read Denise's post until after I posted Claudia's update.  Thanks Denise for the info.


Author:further update on Claudia
Date:Nov 9, 2007 07:27 AM 

Kay Jones Pardue just called and said that Claudia is now in rehab room 4030.  Visiting hours Monday - Friday are 4:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.  On Saturday and Sunday she may have visitors from 1:30 - 8:30.

My husband is having lung surgery at Moses Cone on Monday.  He has had pneumonia off and on since August.  He had just finished his first round of antibiotics right before our reunion.  Right now, he has pleurisy and pneumonia in his right lung.  After having it drained during a recent thoracentisis (sp), it still is not clear and is partially collapsed.  They decided that surgery was the best option.  So, I'll be seeing Claudia a LOT.  Please pray for Kurt's surgery.

Another update, Beth Ellington Owen's mom died on Wednesday.  If you will go to www.thetimesnew.com you can get information.  Check our classmate list on our website or on Yahoo Groups for Beth's mailing address.

We are definitely in that stage of life that proves the uncertainty of it.  I'm glad we have reconnected and are able to provide support to one another.

love,
margaret



Author:Denise Hall
Date:Nov 8, 2007 08:15 PM 

I want to thank you, Margaret (I think you posted the note with the update about Claudia) for that update.  I was at my parent's home last weekend and showing them the blog and saw the news about Claudia.  She is such a wonderful person and I wrote to her in the hospital - reminding her of all the fun I had at her house when we were in grade school together.  I pray for her recovery and it is a real blessing that God was looking after her when her coworkers called 911 - very scary it sounds like!!  We all should keep her in our thoughts and prayers.

 

On another note - and sadder - Beth Ellington's (Owen)  mom passed away Thursday morning.  I know it is in the Burllington paper - but for those of us who don't live there anymore and may not know - I wanted to mention it here.  I will post her address in Arlington, Virginia in case anyone wants to send condolences.  We are travelling to Greensboro Saturday morning for the funeral .  Her address is:  5906 Chesterbrook Rd. McLean, Va.  22101

 

Take care everyone!

 

Denise Diffee Hall



Author:UPDATE ON CLAUDIA
Date:Nov 8, 2007 03:54 PM 

I received this e-mail today on behalf of Claudia.  I don't know who sent it, but I believe it was someone in the family.  Here's the update:

 

On Tuesday October 30, Claudia woke up staring at a new water spot on the ceiling and decided to climb into the attic to investigate for possible water damage from the much needed rains we got a few days earlier.  Within a very short time, she was back down calling her work to let them know that she might be coming in late, as she wasn't feeling well. 
     As soon as Pam heard why she wasn't feeling well, she told Claudia not to go anywhere, because she had to call 911.  The firetruck arrived.  The policeman arrived.  The front door was broken into.  Somewhere in there the paramedics arrived. 
     Thus begins a tale, which will be told in elaborate details many times over through the years as everyone reminisces about how GOOD our God is.  Claudia will be the first to tell each and everyone of you how grateful she is to God for sparing her life, for all of your love, friendship and prayers for her and our family over the years.
     Please take a few moments after reading this to say another prayer for her and the rest of us who have been in and out of Wesley Long and Moses Cone Hospitals with her since that day.  Thank God for the able and skilled doctors who put her back back together in such a way that when her surgery is healed she will be as strong and able to live as if nothing had ever happened. 
     As I write, she just called to let me know that her trek throughout the hospital maze has taken her out of Orthopedics to Room 4030 in Rehab.  This is where she will be until close to Thanksgiving when she will be released for a two plus month home stay before she MAY be able to go back to work PART-TIME.
     This is a LOOONNNGGG story, barely touched on here. We have been more in than out of the hospital some days ( well, she's been IN it the whole time) and have tried to notify as many people as possible.  Forgive us for not having let some of you know earlier, and contact us for updates.  Better yet, Claudia would love to hear from you via cards, emails, phone or in person, subject to visitation hours.
     Recovery at the hospital, then at home will be slow and painful, but with the grace of God, and the love and support and prayers of all of us, it will be over in God's time, and we will be sitting around talking about it, filling in missed details, like - she fell through the ceiling... and a few other things. 
     We love all of you and covet your prayers.  Please feel free to pass this unfolding story to others you may think of that we may not have reached yet.  We will be briefer in updates soon.. 


Author:VERNE HEWITT BOOKER
Date:Nov 6, 2007 06:20 AM 

OK - EVEN THOUGH I HAD A GREAT TIME AT THE REUNION AND HAVE ENJOYED CATCHING UP WITH EVERYONE -  I HAVE STAYED AWAY FROM WRITING ON THE BLOG BUT IN THIS CASE I CAN'T RESIST....I AM ALWAYS UP FOR FIELD TRIPS AND WOULD LOVE TO KNOW IF YOU GET ANYTHING TOGETHER JANET.  WHAT GREAT FUN THAT WOULD BE AND SINCE I HAVE NEVER BEEN TO EITHER PLACE I WOULD BE LIKE THE PROVERBIAL "KID IN A CANDY STORE".  THANKS FOR THINKING OF THIS.


Author:Jan Ennis
Date:Nov 3, 2007 08:21 AM 

Field Trip Anyone?

Remember in High School how we just LOVED a field trip? Anything to get out of the classroom and run moderately wild for awhile---or at least as wild as teacher-set boundaries would allow.

I was pondering this. Give me some feedback and let me know if any of you are interested. Is anyone game for a weekend field trip at some point? My initial thought was a 2 or 3 day weekend in New York City. I'd love to do San Francisco again, too, (I LOVE THAT CITY), or maybe even Las Vegas, but it's probably too far a jaunt to interest any of you. I haven't been in awhile to either NYC or San Francisco. I know how to do these cities fairly inexpensively all things considered.

Anyway, what do ya'll think?



Author:Susan Anderson Kibby
Date:Nov 2, 2007 10:25 AM 

I just got home after visiting with Claudia at Moses Cone.  Having broken my back on several occasions, I had to see Claudia to offer my encouragement for a full recovery. 

 

 Claudia is in great spirits and has a positive attitude.   Her new room in intensive care doesn't allow flowers or have a phone, but a great way to keep in touch with Claudia is through e-mail.  Volunteers at the hospital check it for her and read messages to her.  She will be able to have visitors next week, so in the meantime, she loves hearing from you via her e-mail at cwmccoylcsw@yahoo.com

 

Susan



Author:Kay Jones Pardue
Date:Nov 2, 2007 06:51 AM 

11-02-07  Update on Claudia Ward McCoy

She came through surgery better than expected.  Surgery was much later yesterday than scheduled. She is in intensive care at Moses Cone. I've been told her spirits are good and she is very positive as usual for Claudia.  I think she needs sleep and rest now.  But she appreciates all calls, emails, etc.

 



Author:Margaret Blythe Adams
Date:Oct 31, 2007 05:16 PM 

This is a copy of an e-mail I sent to everyone I have addresses for.  I'm posting it here in case someone didn't receive it:
Hi!
 
Hope everyone is doing well.  I have a couple of updates for you.  First, Teddy Fowler's dad passed away recently.  There have been a couple of other family member deaths that I can't seem to remember.  If some of you would remind me, I would appreciate it and I'll send a follow-up e-mail.
 
  • The immediate purpose of this communication is to let you know that Claudia Ward McCoy had a very bad fall from her attic yesterday and is in Moses Cone Hospital.  Her foot is broken in 10 places (!) and vertebra (sp?) number 12 is also broken.  She will have surgery tomorrow afternoon, followed by a hospital stay and rehab.  I talked to her this afternoon and she is very grateful to be alive!  Her attitude is great, and I pray she will have a very successful recovery
You can send cards to:
 
Claudia Ward McCoy
c/o Moses Cone Hospital
room 5022
1200 N. Elm Street
Greensboro, NC  27401
 
Some of you are very close to Claudia and may want to call.  The number is (336)832-7000.  Room 5022
 
  • Janet Ennis has set up a Yahoo group room for us.  It has a blog function, but more than that, it allows ALL group members to send an e-mail to the ENTIRE group with the click of a button.  I've explored it and there are many, many ways we can use this.  Here is the sign up information:
Click below to join our YahooGroup!!
""
 
If the button doesn't work, here's the link:  http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WalterWilliamsHigh1972/join
 
 
We have made some real progress toward staying unbelievably connected.  Get on board!!
 
Margaret Blythe Adams
 


Author:Susan Bivens Thomas
Date:Oct 31, 2007 07:23 AM 

Margaret, the site looks great!!

Also, Charlotte, I'm definitely on board for a holiday gathering. Just let me know when. The Thursday monthly deal starting in Jan. sounds like a winner, too.

Hopefully, I can plan my bi-monthly visits with my parents to work out with these gatherings. What a perfect plan.

Thanks so much for putting this together.

Susan



Author:Charlotte
Date:Oct 26, 2007 07:43 PM 

  Hey ya'll,

 

Okay Margaret.....I'll do my part....what about the rest of you guys????  She's right.....we do need to take advantage of this blog and keep in touch!  Don't be shy....let us know what's going on …….Did ya’ll know that we have 62 members on the snapfish site and only 4 albums…….It’s really easy to add your pictures to our “room".....If I can do it, ANYONE can!  Give it a try……….

 

I wanted to give ya'll a head's up about a Holiday Happening!!  Kathy H is looking into a week night to have us ALL get together at possibly Kimber's in Gibsonville.  If there is anyone from out of town that may be headed to BBB over the holidays.....let us know when you're coming and for how long.  Looks like we'll most likely have this little shindig before Christmas (as several locals are headed out of BBB between Christmas and New Year'), but we'd like to start by trying to decide on a date.....so we need your input.

 

Also, we are working on “Every-Other-Month-Thurs-Night-Get-Togethers”....maybe here at my house or at Kimbers.  Kimbers will let us have a private area.......so we can be loud there, too!  We’ll most likely start that in Jan or Feb…………

 

Rhonda R:  we missed you last week! 

Susan B:  be sure and come to the next one! 

Margaret: I love the new look at our site!

 

FYI:  Teddy's Fowler's Dad passed away Oct 10.  Amy Harris Deal's Mother passed away Oct 12.  Ada McClintock Eason's Mother passed on Oct 21 (she's a couple of years ahead of us).  (I’ve probably left out important recent events and I apologize in advance……….)

 

Lots of possibilities.......We just want to know if you're "down with it”!  Let's keep this thing going.................any more ideas???

 

Have a great weekend and enjoy the little Hobgoblins next week,

Charlotte



Author:Margaret Blythe Adams
Date:Oct 26, 2007 04:36 PM 

Hi guys!

 

Hope you're on the verge of having a great weekend.  Please continue to put messages on the blog.  We are going to keep the site going until the next reunion provided everyone continues to visit and to communicate.  I'm actually going to read the user's guide for the site and learn to do some new tricks, so stay tuned!

 

Margaret



Author:Jan Ennis
Date:Oct 22, 2007 09:29 PM 

How to Sign Up for the Williams High 1972 Email List on Yahoo Groups.

Go to:

 

http://groups.yahoo.com/

 

Where it says "Find a Yahoo Group" enter ( with no spaces):

walterwilliamshigh1972 

 

Then click on Search.

When our group appears, click on the blue link "walterwilliamshigh1972" then, click on blue bar that says "Join This Group".

 

If you already have a Yahoo ID, you just need to log in using your user name and password.

If you do NOT already have a Yahoo ID, just click on "Sign Up" and follow the prompts.

 

Once you are a member, you can post to the list. It is much the same as posting to the BLOG. Only members of the email list can see and will get a copy of your posted email.

 

Jan



Author:Jan Ennis
Date:Oct 22, 2007 12:27 AM 

For anyone interested, I've started a group on Yahoo Groups for the 1972 graduating class. I've sent out invites to join to anyone whose email address was listed here on the site. If anyone else is out there and wishes to join, by all means send my your email address. The email list is there as a resource in addition to this website. I'll certainly keep it going if there's interest.


Author:Jan Ennis
Date:Oct 20, 2007 09:32 AM 

Good Morning from Albuquerque! My stay in Burlington this past trip was way too short. But thanks to that sweet Charlotte, I was able to see many of you again for an evening of food, festivities, and fun! And if that wasn't enough, imagine the surprised look on my face when I discovered a tiny WHS football had been dropped off at my mother's place prior to my arrival. "Good on ya, Ricky Westbrooks", you're the best!

Some of you know the reason for my recent visit was a trip to ECU to participate in the 100th Centinnel Celebration.

http://www.reflector.com/local/content/news/stories/2007/10/18cokie.html

While that was a fantastic experience, seeing you guys on Thursday night was the highlight, to be sure. I hope you will continue to gather every now and again and stay in touch. I will surely join you on my visits back east.

I'm at my sister's for the weekend. Her WHS reunion is tonight and she's not made plans to go. That would be the class of 1977. So if you out there are into the fine art of party crashing, there's a party tonight---that's as much as I know.

More later........Jan



Author:Susan Bivens Thomas
Date:Oct 19, 2007 02:06 PM 

Hello all,

Well one thing for sure, I've got to start reading this blog more often.

First of all, congratulations to Janet for all of her accomplishments and being honored at ECU!!!! How proud I am of her.

Second of all, I am sooooo very jealous of that Thursday night dinner at Charlotte's. I do hope you guys are serious about planning monthly get togethers,because Fayetteville is just a couple of hours away and I'm usually in Burlington once every couple of weeks anyway. I'd love to join you.

Lastly, Go Mr. Harris the tennis star!!! He's another Jack Lalane. Kathy, I'll bet they will get him on TV to start advertising whatever it is he's drinking or eating to stay in such great shape and then all of you will be zillionaires! Well, it could happen???

Anyway, I miss all of you and hope to see you soon.

Susan



Author:Charlotte
Date:Oct 19, 2007 08:11 AM 

Hey ya'll,

 

We did have another great time.......check it out at snapfish ..........(Anita......were you getting UP at 3:30 am or going to bed!!!  I'm so nosey.......)  Janet have a great trip home and it was so cool to look at your picture and bio in the program from the event on Wed.

 

Special thanks to Paula and Susan for helping ......... and all the others who volunteered to bring things........it was such an easy night!

 

If any of you forgot your precious, lovely, wonderful cotton..let me know and I'll save a piece for you.

 

Always,

Charlotte



Author:Anita Jones
Date:Oct 19, 2007 03:29 AM 

Thanks to Susan for e-mailing me about the get-together last night and thanks to Charlotte and everyone who brought food!  (I offered but was told no. Someone must have known about my cooking)  I enjoyed it very much and can't wait to do it again!  We will make plans to go to the Barn Dinner Theater to see Delores.  AND I love Kathy Harris's idea to set an ongoing time to meet either every month or every other month somewhere so we can stay in touch and have fun!!  How about going to visit George S.??  I really like that idea! 

 

Janet, you are STILL fun after all these years and I am so proud of you for all your accomplishments!!  It is an honor to know you and I really mean it.  And yes........it does seem like I know everyone and everyone is related to me in some way.  Scary isn't it but what a wonderful person to be related to (me!)? (you hear that Trip and Phyllis?)

 

See all you ladies soon and remember to e-mail me because I don't usually look at this blog.



Author:Charlotte
Date:Oct 17, 2007 07:55 PM 

Looks like we've got a crew coming tomorrow night.......Jan, Paula, Susan, Verne, Margaret, Kathy, Nancy, Drema, Rhonda, Donna, Becky, Betsy, Martha and Anita!

 

If you're still trying to decide whether or not to come by.........just come on over for a glass of your favorite beverage and a slice of pizza.........you KNOW it's gonna be fun so just "come on down"............

 

Spread the word..........

Charlotte

 



Author:Charlotte
Date:Oct 16, 2007 06:29 PM 

Hey Bulldogs!

 

The pizza is ordered and the beverages will be chilled, dessert will include chocolate.......and so ........... the perfect recipe for a night with friends!

 

Looks like we'll have around 10 for dinner.....but there's always room for more.  Come if you can....we'd love it. 

 

See ya sooner (this Thursday 6:30) rather than later,

Charlotte



Author:Jan Ennis
Date:Oct 14, 2007 06:31 AM 

Congratulations to the Tennis Twosome! Ya'll know I love the game. That's the beauty of tennis and golf. You can play well into your senior years and that keeps you healthy and feeling great.

Looking so forward to Thursday night and seeing you all again! I have got so much going on this week, but everything is just falling into place beautifully. Today is the first day off I've had in weeks! So, that should give me a little energy to get this great week started off on the right foot!



Author:Kathy Harris
Date:Oct 12, 2007 12:10 PM 

I 'rsvp'd' to Charlotte to say I'd be at the party next week.  How FUN.  What a woman, Jan(et!)!!!  We are proud of you! I am sure Virginia Tech is going to honor me sometime, too.........I graduated there Thank The Laude in 1976 and they've loved me ever since. 

 

By the way, indulge me a bit--in case you missed the news on Channel 2 last night at 6:00--my daddy was featured with Wilma Caldwell, his mixed doubles tennis partner.  They WON the NC Senior Games in their age group (OLD) in September!!! I have been trying to get SOME news organization to honor them and finally Channel 2 stepped up. I am very proud. My parents are MUCH younger than me, as I've said repeatedly. You can see the story on Channel Two website (digTriad.com), I believe for another few days. They play in the National Sr. Games in San Francisco in 2009.  (They were runners up in the National Games in Louisville in June, but nobody cared about that, either!) 

 

So let's use this site to hear more great news from each other--brag away............See the locals on Thursday at Charlotte's.  



Author:Charlotte
Date:Oct 11, 2007 07:30 PM 

Hey!

 

Margaret has put great pictures on snapfish in a WHS group. I also added my "album" and if you've got pictures ... you need to do the same!  Check it out......so cool:   http://whsclassof1972-grouproom.snapfish.com/  Room Code:  WHS1972

 

Hey Janet (White)! I loved looking at your pictures, especially the picture of you, your Mom and Mrs. Horton......what wonderful women!!  I have such great memories of sleepovers at your house.  There was always laughter and smiles at your house!  Keep us posted on when you're coming to town......we'll all get together......

 

YA'LL ..........Come on over Thurs night.  It will be a casual, laid-back gathering with good friends....... pizza, salad and wine.......(beer too, since that's my choice of "poison").  If you can only make it for a little while...........that's better than not at all!  You can call Paula or me, or "blog", or send us an e-mail.  I've heard from several and it looks like we're gonna have fun!  Kudos to Jan!!

 

Spread the word to the "Un-bloggers"!!