September 2008 : Volume 8 - Issue 12

Newsletter for the Alumni and Friends of
Hicksville High School Hicksville, New York

The Editors:
Buffalo Bob Casale '61	Linda (Piccerelli) Hayden '60
Pat (Koziuk) Driscoll '56	Bob (Gleason) Wesley '61

Contributing Editors: Bob Gillette & Walter Schmidt

Webmaster: Roger Whitaker

To contact the editors, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Class of 1958 Reunion

More than 130 members of the class of 1958 will be gathering at the Holiday Inn in Plainview for a weekend full of activities including the reunion party on Saturday evening Sept. 20 with optional events planned for Friday, September 19 and Sunday, September 21. Look for photos and more details about the event in the October issue of HixNews.

People Looking for People

If there's someone you're looking for, just send your request and we'll be happy to add it to the list. If anyone knows these folks, send an email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dear Friends and Family,

On Sunday, October 5, 2008, I will join 5,000 cyclists participating in the 24th annual Bike MS New York City. I will ride 100 miles to raise money for the National MS Society. This year's goal is to raise $3 million and I want to do my part to reach that goal. To make a donation, you can simply click on the link below.

I've never ridden 100 miles before and I bet a lot of you have never donated money to benefit MS research. We can both try something new. I'm hoping to get as little as a $0.10/mile donation from ya'll. That's only $10 (or less if I don't make it).

Many thanks in advance for your generous support.

Warmest regards,
Matt

Follow This Link to visit my personal web page and help me in my efforts to support National Multiple Sclerosis Society, New York City Chapter http://msnyc.kintera.org/faf/r.asp?t=4&i=251540&u=251540-228744989&e=1846736988

I am looking for pictures of teachers who taught at Hicksville Jr. High /Middle School. Please send the pictures to me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. I would like to create a photo collage for a former colleague of mine, Henry Euler, who will be celebrating his birthday. Thank you.Kristina Holzweiss (Uihlein) Hicksville High School class of 1987, Hicksville Middle School teacher from 1995 to 2004.

Kristina...

Are the pics you're looking for of teachers who taught restricted to the years 1995 to 2004?

Thanks,
Buffalo Bob Casale

Definitely not! I would love every era to be represented.

Kristina

I was wondering if anyone has heard anything about the 78 class reunion? I got a postcard several months ago, and that is all I have heard.Thanks,
Joan (Cornelius) Kani

I haven't even gotten a postcard, but would be interested in an event.

Patrick Quinn, '78 

HICKSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
CLASS OF 1959
CLASS NIGHT
JUNE 19, 1959, 8PM
High School Auditorium

It isn't too soon, class of 1959 to think about your 50 year reunion. It's only a year away and with things the way they are now, some planning should be started soon.

We found the page on the right in the 40 year reunion booklet. Enjoy!!!

The Editors

The Newsletter

I can't believe there would be any doubt about Mabel Farley's installation in the Hall of Fame. Miss Farley WAS Hicksville High! I transferred from Queens after my sophomore year. To me, she was the model for a "country teacher". .. a bit stern, wise and yes... old fashioned. I found myself in her office once for a mild talking to, and left admiring her. Recently, I came across her letter to the class of '55 in the yearbook. It is so American, so wholesome. One passage stands out:

"Whatever you have received more than others in health, in talents, in ability, in success, in pleasant school experiences, you are expected to render in return, service to others." I smiled at the words "you are expected."

Our politicians utter millions of words trying to duplicate that simple passage. I revere her memory 58 years after graduation.

Frank Scarangella '55

Hi

Saw your note asking where we are located, well I'm, in Elm Grove, Wisconsin and loving ever minute of it, weather is great, the lake reminds me of the ocean, and I get a chance to shovel some snow in the winter.

George Baritt (Barfitt) 1956

Hello,

I appreciate all the work you put into the newsletter. However, I am from the class of '86, and do not see much information or chatter from anyone I know. Would it be possible to be removed from the email list please?

Thank you,
Cathy

OK, class of 1986 ' where are you?

Roger Gomez, class of '72, is trying to get a reunion together. If anyone from the class of 1972 is interested, please contact the newsletter at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Willie Moy's sister Patty continued to run the family laundry in the Plainview Center on South Oyster Bay Road for many years. Around 10 or more years ago she sold and went into real estate. I used to speak to her regularly. As of years ago I believe she said William had settled in California.

Vicki (Berk) Maas, '72

Thanks to Vicki's clue and some detective work, John Ebbecke and Willie Moy are back in touch via email.

Thanks,
Pat

Hi,

My name is Carol Christopher Fox and I am a friend of Hicksville High, I went to Our Lady of Mercy Academy. I am looking for Linda Proise Carlucci class of 1960. I know she moved to Florida following the death of her husband, Tommy Carlucci (60). We lost touch with her after that. Would love to get in contact with her again.

The Linda Proise that I am looking for has two sisters Pat and Laura. They lived on Hollins Rd. She graduated in 1960 and married Tommy Carlucci who lived on my block, Cambridge Drive. Tommy sadly passed away about 25 years ago. Linda then moved to Florida. I hope someone knows where she is now. She was also friendly with Sandy Sandler and Judy Neimy. Both Sandy and I would love to get in touch with her.

Thanks for any help you can give me.
Carol Christopher Fox

Dear Hixnews editors:

After reading about the foreign language teacher couple in this last HixNews, I am wondering whatever happened to my HHS Italian teachers. I graduated in 1968 and took Italian from kindergarten at Burns Ave. School to 11th grade. My last two teachers were Vincenzo D'Onofrio and Rosa Pavesi, both lovely people. By the way, there is a successful movie & TV actor named Vincent D'Onofrio. Is this guy the son of my Italian teacher whose wife was pregnant back when I was in his class about 1965-66? Thanks for all your work on the HixNews. We love you.

Stephanie (Schlegel) Manning, class of '68

This is Linda Mastrosanti, I don't know why "AOL" keeps telling you that I'm not accepting emails. I have a different e-mail address also.

Thank you for your concern. My husband and I really enjoy reading Hixnews. Being that we both grew up in Hicksville, it brings back a lot of memories. My husband lived off of W. John Street, Kuhl Avenue. As a matter of fact, we are in touch with Lorraine Miltonberg and many other former classmates. Such as Patricia Robb, Doris Gajewski, Elaine Krauss, Arleen DeCesario and many others.

You and the staff are doing a great job with Hixnews. It keeps everyone in touch and lets everyone know what is going on with former friends that we have not been in touch with.

Keep up the good work. Thank you.

Regards,
Linda Mastrosanti (Aragoncillo)

Hi Bob

I was sorry to read about the cancellation of the 40th anniversary of the Hicksville class of '68 from Barbara and Dianne due to increasing costs. Bob, here are my thoughts on this matter. What better place to hold a Hicksville reunion than in a Hicksville location.

We have two large halls available at the Hicksville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post located on South Broadway in Hicksville. We are about 4 blocks east of the Junior High and about 6 blocks east from the High School. One hall can hold about 150 people while the other can hold about 100. Both halls have been recently refurbished and are constantly rented and/or used by community organizations and individuals. I'm sure we could work something out as far as pricing goes.

We also have a list of caterers to which to choose from, whose price are reasonable, but most importantly, their food is excellent. We have our own bar.

I would invite anyone thinking of having a Hicksville reunion to come and take a look at our building facilities and talk to myself or the House Chairman.

As a '65 Hicksville graduate and now, once again, Commander of the Hicksville VFW, I will do what I can to help any Hicksville class looking to have a reunion.

Let me know what you think. You have my permission to publish this letter in the next Hixnews.

Semper Fidelis
Bill Walden

Dear Editor,

I would like to receive the Hicksville Alumni News Letter via E Mail. My name is Mary (deFelice) Stea, class of '65. Birthday, October 12th. Husband, Dan (divorced). Son, Daniel. I taught in Hicksville for 37 years, as an art teacher in the Junior High from 1969 to 1987 and at Hicksville High School, from 1987 to 2007. I retired last year. I live in Commack, New York.

Although I loved teaching, especially at my Alma Marta, I also love retirement. I can finally devote more time to painting and getting together with my retired friends from Hicksville. My son and I recently visited my brother, Bill deFelice, class of '69, his wife Betty (O'Brien) deFelice, also from Hicksville and their daughter and three grandchildren. Here is a recent photo of my brother and me. My brother lives in Tennessee.

Hicksville is a unique community. Many of the graduates still live there. Many of the graduates also taught in Hicksville, because they made it a habit of hiring their own. No matter where our graduates have moved to, when you meet another Hicksville - ite, there is always a warm remembrance of life in Hicksville. We respect each other and care about each other. I have always been so proud to have grown up in Hicksville and to have taught there.

Sincerely,
Mary (deFelice) Stea

Hi Pat,

I also took that biology class in summer school and also aced it. I can't remember what year it was. Anyway Mr. Glass was a great teacher and put all of us ahead for the next school year. You and your fellow editors are doing a great job with the newsletter, enjoy it each month.

Thanks and regards,
Emmett Goodman, class of 56

Hey neighbor!

Yea, I even saw my old house on your other site with the girls sitting on the car with my house in the background!

Got to see the house twice. Once was the 25th reunion which my wife and I went to and in 2001 when one of my sons graduated from grad school in Ithaca. Stopped by to see my sister in E. Northport.

The picture is my 5th grade class. Sue Hodges is the front right, I am the one underneath the closet door knob,

Chris Coletta is in front of me on the left and Pete Anselmo in front with the black bow tie. Vinnie and Frank Coletta are also in the picture along with Marty and Fred Winkler. There are others but can't remember the names.

Ken Marcheneck was listed on your Veterans site with the wrong spelling of his last name. He lived in the house straight down Edgewood Dr. heading south. We joined the Navy the same day and he died in a helicopter crash about a year an a half later, not in Vietnam.

Walter (Rab) Pollack informed me of Hixnews about two years ago and have been looking at it usually monthly.

I see the domain name hicksvillehigh is still available. Every time I use to check Hicksville High I got the Hicksville in Ohio, not ours.

Been in California since 1963 and San Diego since 1966. Been in all sorts of things in real estate the last being a fee appraiser since 1990 and retiring in 2004. Have two sons who live in the San Jose doing well and my Mom and I live in San Diego.

Keep up the good work on the site and good hearing from you. The site must keep you busy.

Bill Dylewski

Dear friends:

As always, great job on the hixnews website!!!

Glad to see that my former French teacher Richard Gentile checked in. I remember him well, as his first year at HHS was my last - 1967. I looked in our yearbook and checked out his photo at age 25? (And that of his wife Ms. Zasa - and what a "cute" Sassoon haircut she had at the time!)

It would be great to hear from him personally and other friends who can easily find my contacts by simply "Googling" my name.On a personal note, my wife and I are pleased that our daughter, Claire Conlon, Executive Director of the California Young Democrats, will be attending the Democratic National Convention in Denver! You go girl!

Regards also from my sister Judy Brandfon (now Greenfield) in Mesa, AZ, class of '72. We both read the newsletter every month.

Martin Brandfon, HHS class of '67
Redwood City, CA

Hi Pat.

Thanks for your help. Through hixnews I heard from a former friend of my brother's, John Muldoon and I got an address that may be his so I'm going to write him a letter as I don't have an email address for him. I'll let you know how I make out.

Thanks again,
Jackie (Reeder) DiBlasi

L-R: Elaine Molloy, Patty Bryan and Fran JudgeRay Babinski sends the photo on the left and asks: Where are they now???????

Thanks, Ray

Pat: I've been corresponding with some of my classmates re: our reunion in Sept., and passed this info on to one of them -- it's a long shot that it might be of interest to HixNews readers, but in case you think so -- you can now go by train to/from JFK to Hicksville -- did you know that?

Ruth and Den have done this, I think the service is fairly recent, here's the website: http://www.panynj.gov/Airtrain/

So if you fly into JFK, you don't have to take a taxi or have someone pick you up there, you take the Airtrain to "change at Jamaica" then the LIRR to Hicksville or wherever.

June Cullen, '58 (FL)

Hi Pat,

Ray Babinski brought HixNews to my attention and I'm so glad that he did. I attended High School in both Levittown and Hicksville but my heart will always be in Hicksville. The memories of my teenage years there are very dear to me. You and the others do a wonderful job of bringing the past forward to the present for us to enjoy all over again........thank you so much for that. How may I be put on a mailing list to receive the newsletter each month as I now look forward to reading it?

I read recently that Jack DeVaul's wife passed away and I would like to extend our condolences to him....is there an address where I could write him at this sad time in his life?

Bless you and the others, Pat. Will look forward to hearing from you,

Patty Bryan Carstons

I want to thank Art Lembke for sending his 1940 East St. class picture in the July issue. The blond haired boy standing on Art's right is my uncle Bob Hackmack. It was the first time I have seen my uncle Bob as a kid. Sadly my uncle Bob passed away in May 2007. Bob was the youngest of 7 children. He was born in Hicksville as were most of his brothers and sisters. My father was the oldest and was born in the Bronx, but moved to Hicksville in 1916. Bob and his family were either living on West St. or Kramer St. at the time.

Bill Hackmack, '66

Just found the website and wanted to add my info to the fray:

Jaysen S. Silverman class of 1974
DOB 02/02
Married to Lisa J (Sheffield) Silverman
Anniversary date 02/03
Living in North Carolina

Looking forward to more info and getting in touch with others from back at home! Thanks.

MANY THANKS TO MY CLASSMATES FOR THEIR SUPPORT

My name is Ted Swedalla and I am a graduate of the class of '64. I want to take this opportunity to personally thank all my alumni friends for their support during my 100 mile Bethesda to Gettysburg bike ride to raise money for our injured troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

I cannot explain the camaraderie amongst the troops who participated in the bike ride all the way from those with simple wounds to single and multiple limb amputees. These men are my heroes and the sacrifice they made for my freedom will never be forgotten. You cannot appreciate the toughness on the outside of these men with very large hearts who treat their handicaps with dignity.

That was exciting but the next several months will be equally exciting as I count down the days until I retire. It's something I have looked forward to with obvious anticipation for a long time. To be so close to the end is marvelous.

When I retire on December 31, 2008, I will follow my good friend, Bob Casale, who retired on June 1st of this year. Bob and I were involved in the plumbing and heating supply business since 1977 when we opened what was then Liberty Plumbing & Heating Supply. We survived years of turmoil and we both look back on what was really a good time in our lives. We still maintain a friendship and have breakfast together every Sunday morning.

I've threatened to write something for a long period of time. I can still hear the chant in the background from Robert (I call him that when he annoys me) 'Please Write Something For The Newsletter!'Bob, don't collapse because here it is.

I've decided to do this in increments because I have a lot to say but don't want to 'all of a sudden' be very wordy. And I confess, from past experience, my friends will be happy because I sometimes never shut up!Bob let the cat out of the bag last issue when he talked about my plan to ride my bike from Key West to Maine. I will go into much more detail next month but will suggest that it would be nice if another retired biker was available to ride with me. I've asked Bob several times but, although he would enjoy the ride, we aren't sure his health would allow such a rigorous trip.More to Follow.

Warm Regards
Ted Swedalla

Hello,I am the daughter of Hope Lambert, who passed away December 1996. She grew up in Hicksville, NY and always told me how she went to high school with Billy Joel! I am looking to contact people from her graduating class, I think 1968. Unfortunately, she was sick my whole life and I would love to contact some people who knew her in her healthy, happy youth! Truly, the only thing I know is that she was beautiful and lived in Hicksville. Please help me connect with people who knew her!

Thank you
Lauren Gonzalez (Block)

Last month, Tom Steedman sent the following to us...Here is another link to You Tube and Brooklyn Bridge a video featuring our hall of famers http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=Q4GwUtBd0DM I sent a note to Tommy SullivanTommy...Please go to the below link and view the video...then tell us who is playing keyboards, who is on the sax, the drums, etc. Plus, where was the film made. It looks like an apartment building in the background.ThanksBuffalo Bob CasaleBelow is Tommy's answer back to me...
I'm pretty sure this was shot on a jetty off Miami Beach... The band, except for the guitarist, Richy Macioce (from Valley Stream) is all HHS: Tommy Sullivan & Joe Ruvio, saxes...Shelly Davis, trumpet...Jimmy Rosica, Bass... Carolyn Wood, organ, Artie Catanzarita, drums.

I've got some news about the HHS / West Point Band connection... I'll fill you in later .Tommy

HICKSVILLE TIDBITS

This should really be Long Island Tidbits. It isn't California; it isn't France; but what is produced here is astounding.The North and South Forks of Long Island are considered prime wine growing areas. The phenomenon of the forks is the wine produced here ranks in category with wines produced in established communities throughout the world. There are over 50 vineyards out east that produce world class wines.Any person interested in a day trip will be amazed at the detail applied to the production of world class wine. I've been to the vineyards of Napa and Sonoma valleys of California. I've done much sampling there and honestly believe the wines produced locally are equal in bouquet to those produced elsewhere.Take a moment from your busy schedule and relax in the Forks of Long Island.

THIRD TRACK TO LIRR MAIN LINE

There is a tremendous debate going on regarding the establishment of a third track project slated for the main line corridor between Hicksville and Floral Park on the LIRR.Leaders from various communities have vowed to fight the project. Their major concern is the impact it would have on local communities. They question the need for a third track and they believe it is a major cost that would disrupt the lives of many individuals.The third track was originally designed for a reverse commute. When that reason lacked justification, it was proposed as a passing lane for disabled trains.

NEW SCULPTURE UNVEILED

It isn't a sculpture of Madonna. It isn't a sculpture of Bruce Springsteen. What is it?It is a brilliant sculpture of Theodore Roosevelt. We tried to contact Madonna and Bruce Springsteen but were unsuccessful. And Roosevelt, same result.The beautiful sculpture is a fitting tribute to Nassau County's own, Teddy Roosevelt, an independent-minded Republican who changed the course of history, bent steel in his bare hands, and, who, disguised'wait. He wasn't Superman, but pretty close.Attending the ceremony was William Schierberl, Esq., who was instrumental in bringing the $200,000 Paul Manship thirteen-foot statue to the TR Executive Building located in Mineola.

LIGHTING STRIKES IN HICKSVILLE

There was a terrible lighting strike at Cantiague Park in Hicksville on July 27th that resulted in severe burns to several individuals.Later the same day, Hicksville Fire Department personnel responded to a house fire that was related to the ongoing storms. A house on Georgia Street had been struck by lightning. The Hicksville Fire Department responded quickly and limited the damage to the attic area.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STREET FAIR SUCCESSFUL

The annual Hicksville Street Fair was successful once again in 2008.We hear about the conflagration of the rivers in Pittsburgh'the Monogahela, the Ohio and the Allegheny.What is lost in translation is the conflagration of the roadways in Hicksville'John Street, Broadway, and Jerusalem Avenue.That is where Hicksville gathers for the Hicksville Street Fair.There were more than 100 vendors selling gifts, wares, clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, services, ice cream, foods and drinks.What made the street fair successful is the people who spent the time walking throughout the many vendors supporting Hicksville and buying into Hicksville's future.Ask any person involved with the Hicksville Street Fair and their answer to you is the people who attend the fair make the fair.Thanks to you, Hicksville, for once again making things happen.

LET'S NOT TALK ABOUT SOME STUFF

We have some issues with things that have happened in Hicksville that should not be talked about; the multiple stabbings of two women by a husband and father takes precedence; the accident at the corner that took the lives of a mother and her daughter.But, if we ignore those dastardly deeds, we fail to make people aware of the pitfalls of life. And Hicksville is not immune from the travesties. Is there something we can do to reduce or eliminate these problems?

HICKSVILLE WATER DISTRICT ELECTIONS SEPTEMBER 2ND

This year, two residents, Warren Uss and Thomas Cunningham, are vying for one open seat being vacated by Richard Humann who is retiring after serving as water commissioner for 24 years.

FLAHAVAN SCORES IN 25TH 5K WOMEN'S RUN

Many of the best women runners from all over New York joined with lots of runners from Long Island for the 25th Anniversary of the Arrow Exterminating Company Long Island Women's 5 Kilometer run.Liz Flahavan distinguished herself once again scoring in 11th place.The 44 year old Hicksville native crossed the finish line at Farmingdale High School in 20 minutes, 28 seconds.

Hi.

I am Rita Sokolski (now Conover). I live in Scotia NY and I am interested in any news from the class of 68.

To bad the reunion was scrapped!

All the best to all - Rita

TRULY USELESS TRIVIA

• A baboon is a variety of lemon.
• The First MTV video was 'Video Killed The Radio Star' by the Buggles.
• One brow wrinkle is the result of 200,000 frowns.
• The mouth of the Statue of Liberty is three feet wide.
• Manhattan is the only borough in NYC that doesn't have a Main Street.
• Penguins have an organ above their eyes that converts seawater to fresh water.
• Hawaii is the only U.S. state never to report a temperature of zero degrees F or below.
• Pigeons have been trained by the U.S. Coast Guard to spot people lost at sea.
• The first person in the U.S. arrested for speeding was a NYC cab driver.
• The world's termites outweigh the world's humans 10 to 1.

Write your list of the 10 truly useless trivia items for inclusion in next month's newsletter. Can anyone suggest a column that should be added each month.

Walter Schmidt has suggested we set up a humor section. Here's a sample:

One Summer evening during a violent thunderstorm, a mother was tucking her son into bed. She was about to turn off the light when he asked with a tremor in his voice, 'Mommy, will you sleep with me tonight?' The mother smiled and gave him a reassuring hug.

'I can't dear,' she said. 'I have to sleep in Daddy's room.' A long silence was broken at last by his shaky little voice saying, 'The Big Sissy!'

Please let us know your thoughts. Our aim is to keep everyone happy and perhaps we've grown to a new level!! Please, please let us know.

Thanks
The Editors

Photo Gallery

Also enclosed is a picture of me, in official capacity as Commander of the Hicksville VFW presenting Mike Cullen (class of '65 also), with his 40th year membership pin.  We have been friends since Jr. High School.  Both Mike and I enlisted in the Marine Corps and served in Vietnam.

If there is anything I can do, do not hesitate to contact me.

Semper Fidelis

Bill Walden

Monday, August 11th...a little after noon.

I was taking my daughter, Dawn, to LaGuardia for a flight back to Augusta. As we were driving West on Northern State, the weather got really nasty looking...big dark clouds, then a tremendous downpour. Just before, Dawn was looking toward Great Neck and swore she saw a funnel cloud and snapped a picture, but we were too far away to see the result. Within a half hour, that same front was pounding the North Shore nearby to Hicksville, and sure enough, the tornado formed.

Robert Casale

Birthdays & Anniversaries

New Readers & Returns

New Readers

A Note From The Editors: To all, a hearty welcome to HixNews.Com. We hope you will all feel free to participate with memories and thoughts that you may have about Hicksville High, and your times growing up on the Island.If you are a new member (or know of one), please send the name, year of graduation, date of birth (month and day only), anniversary date, name of spouse, and the state where you live. Send it to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  Roger Gomez, 1972 (CO)

• Linda Annucci, 1963 (FL)
• Irene (Annucci) Myers, 1965 (FL)
• Eric Greene, 1961 (WA)
• Bill Reilly, 1962 (TX)
• Mary Anne (Voss) Nargi, 1963 (FL)
• Ray Carine, 1972 (FL)
• Mary (deFelice) Stea, 1965 (L.I.)
• Joan (Volonino) Decker, 1963 (PA) 
• Bill Dylewski, 1961? (CA)
• Peter Henneberger, 1961 (UT)
• Jaysen S. Silverman, 1974 (NC)
• Patty (Bryan) Carstons
• Joan (Younghans) ODonnell, 1963 (NY)
• Jackie (O'Dell) Carter, 1960 (FL)
• Janine (Endsley) Spadafora, 1977 (NJ)
• Lauren (Block) Gonnzalez
• Pete DeRosa, 1963 (FL)
• Camille (Gully) Hauf, 1962 (L.I.) need email address
• Rita (Sokolski) Conover, 1968 (NY)

Returns

Remember the 3 strike rule: Three returns and your name will be removed from our mailing list. If you see your name listed below and still wish to be contacted by HixNews, please send a change of address to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Also, you may want to contact your ISP and advise them that HixNews is NOT SPAM.

• Barbara Archer, 1961 MAILBOX FULL
• David Berger, 1965 MAILBOX FULL
• Susan (Reling) Cronin, 1962 MAILBOX FULL (x2)
• Artie Clemenz, 1961 (x2)

Honoring our Veterans

And a good three-day weekend to all. As was said: "Labor Day differs in every essential way from the other holidays of the year in any country. All other holidays are in a more or less degree connected with conflicts and battles of man's prowess over man, of strife and discord for greed and power, of glories achieved by one nation over another. Labor Day... is devoted to no man, living or dead, to no sect, race, or nation." --- Samuel Gompers, founder and longtime president of the American Federation of Labor, 1898

 --- Regards, Walt

They Gave Him Back A Life: More Than Just Being Alive

Once again, Larry Scott, Founder and Editor VA Watchdog dot Org (http://www.vawatchdog.org/), has brought to our attention something I want to share with us all. From a video of ABC World News with Charles Gibson, Thursday, August 21, 2008; Length of video is 4:39, posted on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bz8daB-Ox1I).

TBIs

TBIs -- Traumatic Brain Injuries in other wars would often result in yet another KIA. Since then, much has been done to improve battlefield-medicine. The result, today, many TBI victims are saved.

Yet saving their lives is only the first step in what all too often winds up being a long and tortuous journey; a journey for which the end, time and again, is never in sight. That's where a group of NYC firefighters came in. Because of these men, who I would call my brothers any day, a TBI injured marine was given back a life. Yes, the VA kept him alive, giving him HIS life. However, it was the NYC FD 'soldiers' that gave him back A life, one as he wanted it to be.

Him

It does not matter what his name is, or exactly where he was injured. Let's just say he is a current-day service member who had he been injured such that even a few years ago he would not still be with us today. Yet he is...

The Journey Begins; A Decision Must Be Made

After months of the finest medical and PM&R (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation) treatment for TBIs offered anywhere, a point is reached where a decision must be made concerning a service member's continued stay at a VA Med Center, 'just' to receive PM&R therapy. This is a question I myself am well aware.

A Little About How That Type Of Decision Affects Me

As a tetraplegic I'm entitled/need PM&R three to five times a week. The VA would gladly provide me this physical therapy if I had the time to go to the Northport VA Med Center each day. Even if I was unable to leave my home, they would gladly provide me therapy one or two days a week; at least something. However, since I work five days a week it's 'Xin Loi G.I.' -- 'sorry about that.' The VA will not provide me physical therapy at my workplace, period.

A Decision Made And Help Obtained

Our Marine decided he wanted to be home with his family. The VA explained that his needed daily therapy would be cut to one or two days a week. Still, it was at home he wanted to be.

NYC Fire Department Members To The Rescue

Every day, a group of NYC firefighters volunteer their time to ensure the needed physical therapy is provided, giving our wounded a life as he wants it to be.

Would it not be something if all our various organizations would do something similar...

This Week's Almost Not Commented on Story

-- Die, Yes - Register For Vote, No

HELP OUR VETERANS VOTE, WHAT IS THE SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS THINKING -- James B. Peake issued a directive that bans nonpartisan voter registration drives at federally financed nursing homes, rehabilitation centers and shelters for homeless veterans. As a result, too many of our most patriotic American citizens -- our injured and ill military veterans -- may not be able to vote this November. There are thousands of veterans of wars in Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf and the current campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan who are isolated behind the walls of V.A. hospitals and nursing homes across the country. We have an obligation to make sure that every veteran has the opportunity to make his or her voice heard at the ballot box. The VA offers two reasons to justify its decision. First, it claims that voter registration drives are disruptive to the care of its patients. This is nonsense. Veterans can fill out a voter registration card in about 90 seconds. Second, the department claims that its employees cannot help patients register to vote because the Hatch Act forbids federal workers from engaging in partisan political activities. But this interpretation of the Hatch Act is erroneous. Registering people to vote is not partisan activity. If the department does not want to burden its staff, there are several national organizations with a long history of nonpartisan advocacy for veterans and their right to vote that are eager to help. The federal government should be doing everything it can to support our nation's veterans who have served us so courageously. There can be no justification for any barrier that impedes the ability of veterans to participate in democracy's most fundamental act, the vote.

My Hicksville Trivia

 Our Lady of the Surf Day Part II: The South Shore.

We'll make this the early '60s. Alcoholic beverages were still allowed at Jones Beach. It being Our Lady of the Surf Day, many Hicksville students could be found at Field 9 (we do not talk about those of Hicksville who preferred West End 1, although I later found out that is where Hofstra University could be found). We being who we were, beer was readily available and the police were 'watching' us. While to this day I believe I know whose idea it was, we'll just call him 'one' of us -- you see, the police had locked and left their squad car unattended. So, one of us asked the telling question: "How many of us do you think it would take to flip the police car?" Notice please, once suggested it was a given that their car would be turned over. The only question was... how many of us it would take. Well, it took some rocking, and ten to twelve of us, but the squad car did wind up on its side. An article, with a picture I recall, wound up in Newsday. And, related or not, alcoholic beverages were soon banned at Jones Beach. Next month I'll reminisce about OLOTSD North Shore Edition, subtitled: Preston Hunt, We Are Still Sorry!

Lest We Forget

 Currently there are (at least) 5,113 (46 more since last month) Veterans of Modern Warfare who no longer will be "asking" our government for a dime . . .

Till next month be well... and remember, "Let No Veteran Ever Stand Alone!"

---------------------------------------------------
--- --- Walt Schmidt Veteran Services Officer
- - --- TOBay's Veteran Services Division
- - - - "Let No Veteran Ever Stand Alone!"
--- --- WorkDayTime: 516.733.8414 & 24/7 Voice Mail
- - --- Anytime: 24/7 Voice Mail 516.799.8300
- - - - Website: http://www.waltsdorsai.net/
Ken Sun - Weekly Column: http://experts.longisland.com/veterans

"To know yet to think that one does not know is best;
Not to know yet to think that one knows will lead to difficulty."
- Lao-Tzu 71:1

Memory Lane

I also remember Dugan's and Entemann's delivering bread and cakes to the house. The Bookmobile also toured the neighborhood twice a month. Also, the water retention basin for the Allied Homes always had just enough water in the winter to skate on.The little blurb and link stating that The Hicksville Newsletter was worth some money must have been a joke.  When Pat and I started we refused advertising and always hoped The Newsletter would turn out just as it has.  Thanks to everyone that works so hard every month to get it out on deadline.

Linda Piccerelli Hayden 1960

Hi Editors,

Attached is another photo.  This one is from Kindergarten, East Street School, '52-'53 before Woodland Ave. School was built.  That is me on far right, leaning against window with left hand in pocket.  It's a little tough trying to remember names in this one, but here goes:

On my right is Ken Wallace.

Next to him is Guy Van Wagenen.

Next to him, I think, is Charlie Schafer.

Sitting in front row, on left is Gordon Van Sise.

Next to him is Don Martin (?).

Sitting at table on right, second one from right, was one of my best friend Joe Havlick, who passed away a few years back.

I know that Steve Ragusa, Philip Ragone, Mike Mueller, Andy Koehler, Joanne Pani, Steve Walsh and few others from around the Briggs Street/Ketchum Ave. & Road area are in there.

It will be fun seeing if anyone recognizes themselves or others.

Next month, Woodland Ave. 6th grade.

If there is anything I can do, do not hesitate to contact me.

Semper Fidelis

Bill Walden

Many thanks to all 1960's classmates who sent in names of those pictured in the following photograph. If anyone can provide more detail about the picture, or if you can name the several names still missing, please do so for publication in the October issue. I'm not sure what school these students were attending. There is no teacher present in the picture. Thanks for your help.

The Gang at the Hicksville Newsletter

Mrs. Clapp's class 5-204-AM at Lee Avenue School in 1954. Several students are named...many are not. Can anyone help with more names??

First Row on Right, Front to Back: Sue Hodges * GGG

Second Row from Right,  Front to Back: Renee Abramowitz * Jo Elaine Carbe * Patty McKeon * Pete Anselmo * Salvatore Gramaglia

Middle Row: GGG * GGG * GGG * Bruce Teechfeld * Chris Coletta * Bill Dylewski

Fourth Row From Right,  GGG * Darlene Socherock * Marty Winkler * Douglas Arrington * Vin Coletta

Fifth Row From Right:  Arthur Cook * Frank Coletta * GGG * Judy Sadler *

Standing Left To Right: BBB * BBB * Mrs. Clapp * Fred Winkler * BBB

In Memoria

JAMES NEWELL

I would like if you could mention the passing of James Newell (ex-brother-in-law), I believe he graduated in 1962.  He was a wonderful person and I knew him for many years. He passed on August 8, 2008.

Thank you so much, I don't know much about his school days, but I would like him to be remembered.

Sincerely
Cheryl (Woods) Newell, 1969

Rich Digiulio

Don't know if any of you knew Rich Digiulio or not, he passed on Tuesday (8/12/08) night in Oregon. He was 62 and had prostate cancer.

Bill Walden, 1965

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