SOUTH SHORE NEWS SPOT   April 2007    © 2007 by CMA Publishing

By Caryn Lazar Amster

Hello everyone - I appreciate your comments and stories.  This newsletter is YOU. It is every one of you.  You keep this thread alive and make many people happy.  Keep them coming.  I am making all of you news reporters with assignments to tell me the stories of your reunions and your meetings through the newsletter and retell your interesting and valuable memories.  Welcome new subscribers.

History of the newsletter – Coming to you since 2004 - I love doing this newsletter though it was never meant to be over 14 pages.  It was supposed to be a one page announcement of where I would be speaking. But I received so many emails from South Shoreites after the Pied Piper book came out that I felt compelled to start reuniting old friends. It seems to be working.  Caryn

Word count for this issue is 10,023 words.  Total read time about 30 minutes.  THE HUGEST issue yet – 19 pages - thanks to all of you!

Thanks for all the well wishes on my dad’s yarzeit (anniversary of his death in 1970).  Mom’s was March 1^st.

This month we feature even more reunions, stories, people seeking old friends, updates on South Shoreites and South Shore and much more! 

Don’t just forward this newsletter. Your friends can get their own copy by emailing me at caryn@cmapublishing.net

WELCOME NEWSLETTER NEWCOMERS

I am receiving many new requests for The News Spot.  I am very gratified.  Some people still do not know about my South Shore book that started it all. The Pied Piper of South Shore, Toys and Tragedy in Chicago is my true family, true crime Chicago social history set in South Shore from the 1940’s -1970’s.  My family owned Wee Folks Toy Store for 25 years on 79^th Street.  It is a story of my immigrant parents, their American dream and their richly diverse neighborhood.  The foreword is by Tony and Emmy award winner and long time customer Mandy Patinkin.  The cover is by Bowen graduate and artist Mitch Markovitz who also did the poster and prints of the cover. The Pied Piper of South Shore, Toys and Tragedy in Chicago has won several literary awards and rave reviews.  Check out the website www.cmapublishing.net for more information on the book.  The shopping cart is trashed beyond repair so the only way to purchase books,  posters and fine art limited edition prints of the cover is to call me direct toll f*ree at 1-866-50-PIPER (74737).  I will love to chat!  You can email me at caryn120@comcast.net and I will call you, or write me at Caryn Amster, P.O. Box 366, Medinah, Ill 60157-0366.  PLEASE, NEVER send your credit card number by email to me or anyone. This is a security issue and can cause you identity problems.

 

“EVERYBODY LOVES SOMEBODY SOMETIME”- SEEKING LOST FRIENDS

Looking for lost South Shoreites?  Email caryn120@comcast.net and I will try to put you in touch.  If you want me to use your request/memory in the newsletter, please include your permission for me to use your name & email address. 

 

I have read a number of references to Bob Levi.  I think he and I were in the same Sunday school class at South Shore Temple.  My maiden name was Carol Jackson - I am now Carol Rice. It would be fun to reminisce with him about Dr. Fox and South Shore.  Thanks for the great work you do with the newsletter.  I have enjoyed reading news of the neighborhood, and classmates.  It brings back so many memories.  Carol (Jackson) Rice goforsix@aol.com

 

I received an email copy of your newsletter from my sister-in-law, Wendy Lewis.  My late husband, Sheldon (Shelly) Lewis, (class of '59) passed away 12/3/05 of a brain tumor.  I have established a scholarship in his name for his beloved South Shore H.S. He knew about this scholarship before he died - it gave him a great deal of joy to know I would be doing this in his memory. The first scholarship was given last year to a wonderful young man, Aaron Smith, who is now attending Howard University. This year's scholarship will be given to a female student.  Every little bit counts! Anyone wishing to donate to this fund may send a check made out to The South Shore H.S. Tars Alumni Club (SSTAC), with the Sheldon Lewis Memorial Scholarship noted on the check. You can mail donations to my home at 1130 Laurel Ave., Deerfield, IL 60015.  Information on the recipient will be sent to anyone who donates. This is a great cause! These kids need our help!! Please help me give back to your community! Peggy Lewis Please feel free to email me at peggyonlaurel@aol.com if you wish to discuss or have questions.  

 

There was a note in this month's newsletter from a Jesse Iverson. Do you know if he was a student or a teacher? There was a fabulous music teacher whose name was Jesse Iverson; he was a percussionist and fascinated us as students. Could it be? Lois Levitt June 1954   momlevitt@aol.com

 

Is Suzie Orman the same Orman whose parents owned the deli on 53rd in Hyde Park?  Is her brother, Bob Orman, the lawyer whose wife was murdered a few years back?

Brenda Rossini agrrtig@aol.com

 

I received your newsletter from Arleen LaMaskin Richman who graduated from South Shore in June, '57. I went to Luella and Bowen.  My parents moved to Evanston/Skokie when I was a junior so I never graduated from Bowen.  We lived in Jeffrey Manor. There are people I would love to catch up with that I haven't seen in years. Gail Pallas Missner gail.missner@bairdwarner.com  

 

I started with the class of June 1963, but graduated August 1962. I'd love to hear from and about my classmates (and the teachers, including Ms. Marjorie Coleman, my homeroom and biology class teacher.  I was in Aqua Debs (hi Ms. Cox and fellow swimmers) and I played the violin in the orchestra (hello, Mr. Gorbach and fellow musicians.)  Another name that came to mind is Elsa or Ilsa Eskonen.  I can't remember her married name.  She was an outstanding athlete.  I remember her being in the GAA and winning several GAA swimming events Elsa had long blond braids and she was one of the sweetest girls in school.  Also George Kempf was a hunky guy who I think was going to attend Johns Hopkins.  I don't know how many of our classmates served in Viet Nam but I'm sure some did.  I hope they all survived relatively unscathed, physically and emotionally.  Their experiences in the military would probably unite those who may have "served" together. Hello to Bonnie Zolata. Thanks! Arlene Ruksza-Lenz   arlenerl@netscape.com

 

Thought you might like to hear about the outcome to one of the requests in your news letter.  A year ago some one asked if anyone knew the whereabouts of Scott Merriman. My sister, who was 7 years my senior, had a boyfriend when she was in high school (Loretto Academy in the mid 40s) and his name was Scotty Merriman. I (at the tender age of 10) thought he was the cutest guy I'd ever seen, and was totally smitten. I determined that if I married some day, and if I had a son, I'd name him Scott. He and my sister broke up.  I never heard of him again.  I did get married and I did have a son, and I did name him Scott. When I saw in your newsletter, someone asking the whereabouts of Scott Merriman, I thought 'Could it be?'  I wrote to the gal who ask the question and she said the age would be about right. She said if she heard anything she'd let me know. A month or so later she sent me his address. It took me a couple months to actually write to him, but I did. And sure enough it's the same Scott. I told him about my 'early' crush on him and his having a namesake and a grand namesake as one of my other sons named their son Scott.  We have corresponded a few times and he even sent me his senior prom picture of him next to my sister. And he sent me a recent picture. How neat is that? I always wondered about him and would smile thinking about how my son got his name. W/O your news letter I would never have known. Just thought I'd share that with you. I graduated from SS in 54. Verna McEndree Oles   voles36@yahoo.com

 

Judy Bierhaus SSHA “56” attended her 50th class reunion last year. She had a wonderful time. She has since had surgery for a brain tumor. She is not doing well. If any from the class care to I think it would be lovely if they would do a card shower with notes of encouragement to her. Judy Bierhaus’ address is 1 S 542 Halsey Rd. Oakbrook Terrace, IL  60181.  Judy and I were in girl scouts together 100 years ago.... well it seems like 100. It's been a lifelong friendship. I think a card avalanche would be great. Thanks. Verna McEndree Oles voles36@yahoo.com

 

Note from Caryn – Even if you don’t know Judy she would probably like a card! 

 

We are elated to begin receiving feedback from your article on Max and Benny’s. Minor correction: Lester Schlan is the owner...Bob Eisenstein is the General Manager.  Thanks.  Paul Richards, Catering Manager   maxandbenny@aol.com

 

I was in one of the very first graduating classes of South Shore (June, 1942), and a Los Angeles resident since 1952.  You can imagine how alienated I have felt all these years until my brother (Al Saper) put me in touch. Now I not only get to reach out to familiar names all over the country, but I also hear from and about Al more often, thanks to you. I have two younger cousins who graduated from Hyde Park. Eugene Hoffman married a gal from Turkey when in college in Iowa. As a bi-cultural researcher, he was thrilled to learn of the newsletter. As for myself, I have always regretted changing my name from "Saper" to "Sinclair" but too late now. Anyone interested can find me performing on the Turner Cable Website in a series entitled "Grandma's Interweb Talk Show." I play, of course, the title role. The link is: www.Superdeluxe.com/static/series.shtml (Go to "series" and punch in title of show). Thanks again for everything, especially for "Pied Piper." Does anyone know the whereabouts of Gerry (Geraldine) Sidell? She went to our 20th class reunion with me, but I have lost touch. Dorothy Saper Sinclair Dodosinc@aol.com

 

In February there was a post from a woman who was my kindergarten teacher at Horace Mann, Sandra Steinberg.  I used the email address link to email her but it will not send. I get messages that the email address is too long or not a known member. I would very much like to send this email and tell her what a wonderful impact she had on me.  Can you help? Sandy (Levin) LePree  SLEPREE@aol.com

 

My name is Carol Zucker. I grew up in Merrionette Manor and graduated from Luella in 1969. My maiden name was Schneider. I’m wondering if there are still any people from my grammar school class who are still living in the Chicago area (North or South Suburbs) that might be interested in finding their old classmates. Carol Zucker raz460@sbcglobal.net

 

My sister, Geraldine Ruksza Baader, just told my brother Pete, who pitched on the SSHS baseball team in the mid-60's and I about your newsletter. Our older sister, Dorothy Ruksza Trail (June'58) now lives in Montana, and raises quarter horses. She'd love to get her Tide back from Bunny, another teenaged horse owner, who borrowed it decades ago, but never returned it. I remember teachers Ms. Patricia Cox, a gym teacher and my synchronized swim team coach, who was straight from college when she came to SSHS. I also remember my home room teacher and biology teacher, Mrs. Marjorie Coleman. Some of the older teachers might be at that great blackboard in the skies by now but it'd be great to hear about the ones who are still among us. Hola Miss Curtis and Mr.Alo. Hi, Ms. Groh and Mr Yasnoff, et al. I ran into Larry Fox, a fellow early grad, who is a veterinarian in River Grove, Illinois.  Neither knew much about the current activities or whereabouts of our fellow South Shorites and we would love to get SSHS information. I was one of the first class of honors students allowing us to graduate the summer of 1962 from the SUMMER SCHOOL class following our JUNIOR year of high school! I married a north sider and live in Elmwood Park.  Arlene Ruksza-Lenz,

PHONE: 708-456-1016 arlenerl@netscape.com

 

Jerry Lazar is looking for Herb Rosing. Herb and his wife Elaine (SSHS 1956) live in Northbrook, IL. Their address is 1220 Rudolph #5J, Northbrook, IL 60062. They spend winters in Scottsdale AZ. Thanks for all you are doing to keep South Shore alive for us. Penny Brill Sugarman   SSHS 1956 pjsugar@sbcglobal.net

 

I'd love to get in touch with many of my friends, including the members of Tau Sigma Phi, Pat Golden, Kathy Bogey, et.al., and members of my summer school graduating class, including Sandra Sklar and the others, and Pam Van Kirk, my fellow tall/stood in the back row for pictures classmate, whom I'd heard had gotten married to a serviceman and had moved to/been stationed in Hawaii way back in the late 60's or early 70's. Some of us went on to college at the University of Illinois, at Navy Pier. I still remember car pooling.  Thanks to the drivers, including the twins Connie and Natalie Siegal, who had a VW bug.  Where is Jim Alexander and Jeff Deutsch?  Some of us went from "The Pier" on to Urbana. I graduated from the University of Illinois with a B.S. in Journalism, in January, 1966, and later did some graduate work at Northwestern. I'm looking forward to hearing more about my fellow alums.  I have to dig out my Tide to refresh my memory about names...Roberta Pollack, Michael Gordon,  Marian Apter, Darla Schroeder, Judy Pratt, Phyllis Weinstein?, Merle S?, Val ?, Susan Sommers?, Wesley Johnson?, Eve Sonneman, Rich Stevens, Tony?, Gordon Radley, et.al. Hi to my fellow tennis players from the Rainbow Beach Tennis Club's junior tennis team. Geraldine-Ruksza Baader    Geraldinebaader@cs.com

 

Note from Caryn – The following is a great success story

I am the late Larry Lazar's cousin. I had Herb Rosing as a math teacher back when there were dinosaurs in 1956 or 1957. I recall Herb and Sheldon from when I was very young in the late 1940s. I have had no contact with Herb since we moved back to Hyde Park in 1958 after my parents died (Bernard} and Luciel Lazar).I recall Herb as being one of the truly nice people and I would like to be able to send him a "Hello.  I am including a bio just in case he is interested. 

 

My life has been an adventure! After finishing at Luella, Bowen and Hyde Park in January of 1961, I had no idea of what to do with myself. My reading was barely above the 5th grade level and I didn’t consider higher education as a realistic option. Now I know that I am dyslexic and have ADD, but back then, who knew? Some friends fooled me into starting Loop (then Junior) College and for the first time in my life I did well in school! One of the senior facility members thought that I might have a brain (unlike my teachers at Hyde Park) pushed me and became my mentor (Dr. Sal Rotella). I was then able to get a full ride at Northern Illinois University. That is when the most important thing in my life happened. I met Jan Virostko (now Jan Lazar) to whom I have been married since April of 1968. I took multiple undergraduate degrees and completed a Masters in Political Philosophy at Northern Illinois University. I also was deeply involved in human rights, civil rights women's rights and anti war activities. I then did doctoral studies in Colorado.  I ran human service agencies for ten years and ended up not doing the clinical work but administrative work which I did not like at all. From 1975 to 1979 I was the Executive Director of the National Counsel on Alcoholism program in Lansing, Mi., until I went through “burn-out”. On a lark, I started a small firm.  It turned out better then I had expected and I ran the firm until1998. I had been on faculty at Lansing Community College part time for nearly 30 years and my clinical experience, background in Political Philosophy and business ethics resulted in the Center for Ethics and Humanities for the Medical School at MSU asking me to become adjunct faculty in Medical Ethics. After doing that for a few years, I started sitting in on Medical School classes in the College of Osteopathic Medicine. (I teach both MD and DO students.) I did that partly because I found medicine very interesting in itself and also to better be able to work with the ethics issues the students would be dealing with. As a result of my work in the Cardiology program I now also teach a small unit and put up a web site for the Cardio students on ethics case studies which were an innovative part of the teaching program in medical ethics. I also have published several articles on medical ethics, and Jan has co-authored a couple of articles with me as well. I also have coauthored a chapter in business ethics for a graduate business text book. I now also teach at Sarasota Memorial Hospital and the University of South Florida in Sarasota. I work on end of life issues with the Sarasota area Hospice and pain management program. Most of the year I live in Sarasota, Fl., but go north to MSU to teach a session in Cardio in January, and the six weeks in spring and fall for the Medical Ethics program. Jan is down here a good part of the time but consults in Mi. and nationally as she is needed. Jan & Jerry Lazar jllazar@comcast.net

 

Note from Caryn – Many people have asked if Jerry Lazar and I are related.  Here is the scoop from the horse’s mouth so to speak.  “As I recall we are not related. There is the Lazars drug store family, your family the toy store people and mine are the plumbing and heating Lazars. I know your father and mine knew each other and my father sometimes bowled with the drug store Lazar. Since Lazar is such a great name, so full of dignity and grace we should all be related but. My Lazars family name came from Estonia and my grandmothers family, the Greenspan's from Latvia. I am not sure of this. Nevertheless I would be pleased to have you as a cousin.” Jerry Lazar jllazar@comcast.net

 

I was reading your March newsletter and noticed that Jerry Lazar is looking for Herb Rosing, Math teacher at Bowen.  He is my brother-in-law, married to Elaine Kramer.  He lives in Northbrook, Illinois for 6 months and in Scottsdale Arizona for 6 months.

Phyllis Witt   pooksw77@sbcglobal.net

 

Note from Caryn – I hope Jerry and Phyllis have connected by now.  The email for Jerry in the last newsletter was incorrect.  The correct email is jllazar@comcast.net

 

Remembering Romper Room - Note from Caryn – Does anyone remember Romper Room?  My daughter was on the show.  Because her grandfather owned a toy store she knew how to demonstrate all the toys.  One commercial segment featured Kim on her Romper Stompers. 

 

Note from Caryn - I just found a long lost friend too! Erlene Sklar! My mom would be so hapy!

I have just received my first email from the old days, and thank you so much for the time and efforts on all our behalf. I cannot believe that you are the one person I remember so well.... because if we are both on the same page, I used to work at Wee Folks after school at South Shore High, and on weekends.  You might remember me as Erlene Sklar.  You and I spent many hours stacking shelves, wrapping gifts, etc. In fact your folks even took me on a vacation trip once to keep you company.  I can see your folks in front of me as if it was yesterday, and I have such loving memories from my time there. It was because of my experiences there that I chose to go on to a teaching career, rather than one in art as I had planned. Life is amazing!  One never knows what is right around the bend. Erlene Sklar Chernick    erlchernic@aol.com

 

THANK YOU

• I appreciate your nice comments on the newsletter and the book. 
• Thanks to those who sent “gifts” to assist me with keeping this newsletter coming to you. I reward those who make donations by emailing them the past newsy monthly newsletters from October 2005 through March of 2007. If you found this newsletter fun and nostalgic, discovered someone from your past, and it has made you happy, gifts are much appreciated. They can be  sent to P.O. Box 366 Medinah, Ill 60157-0366 or call me toll f*ree at 1-866-507-4737. Include your email address please.
•  To Bob Levi for sending the South Shore logo above.

 

IRAQ CONNECTION

Note from Caryn - Do you have family members in Iraq?  If anyone has kids, grandkids or family serving there I will be glad to add their names to the newsletter so we can all pray for them. 

GOOD TO MEET YOU - When we correspond through the newsletter I never know where you live.  I have met readers at stores and movies.  It makes me feel like a celebrity.  Thanks so much.

QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"Don't worry about the world coming to an end today.  It's already tomorrow in Australia."  -- Charles Schultz.

 

“I always prefer to believe the best of everybody, it saves so much trouble.”  Rudyard Kipling

 

"Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving."  Albert Einstein

FUNNIES – For women only

My second favorite household chore is ironing, my first being hitting my head on the top bunk bed until I faint.  Erma Bombeck  

I'm not offended by all the dumb blonde jokes because I know I'm not
dumb -- and I'm also not blonde.  Dolly Parton

 

If high heels were so wonderful, men would still be wearing them.
Sue Grafton

 

I'm not going to vacuum 'til Sears makes one you can ride on.
Roseanne Barr

 

 

We are over 1,650 strong now!  If you change your email address please send me your new one.  Once they bounce I take you off the list. 

PIED PIPER SAYS BYE BYE TO BOOKSTORES –You can no longer purchase The Pied Piper of South Shore book in bookstores or on Amazon. But you can always get them directly from me.  Check out the website www.cmapublishing.net for more information on the book.  The shopping cart is trashed beyond repair so the only way to purchase books,  posters and fine art limited edition prints of the cover is to call me direct toll f*ree at 1-866-50-PIPER (74737).  I love to chat!  You can email me at caryn120@comcast.net and I will call you, or write me at Caryn Amster, P.O. Box 366, Medinah, Ill 60157-0366.  PLEASE, NEVER send your credit card number by email to me or anyone. This is a security issue and can cause you identity problems.

WEBSITES/BLOGS OF THE MONTH

Real Simple Magazine, a publication I love, will email you a thought for the day if you contact them.  They always give me something to think about.  Reach them at www.realsimple.com and sign up for their daily thoughts email. 

See the first issue of "See What We're Made Of (tm)". You may enjoy reading about the McDonald's(r) you may not know. Click here (or copy and paste this link below into your browser) to access this issue:

http://recp.rm05.net/ctt?kn=3&m=513208&r=MzY3NjY1NzE3OQS2&b=2&j=ODA0NDI3NDMS 1&mt=1

 

Thanks to Doug Malewicki DMalewicki@cox.net for this entry.  It shows old Chicago postcards on a searchable website.  http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/il/cook/postcards/chicago/chicago.html

 

Want a free way to complain to a manufacturer, store or other entity that has given you bad service?  Go to www.consumeraction.gov. Look at the sample complaint letter. 

 

Want to reach a real person when you call a company’s customer service?  www.paulenglish.com gives you the best way to reach a live person on their database. 

 

STORIES AND MEMORIES TO SHARE

Alexander’s restaurant update - I just received this update from Jimmy Alexander on the opening of the restaurant.  I can smell the garlic already!  

Well Caryn stuff happens.  The Powerhouse building being a Landmark building had some delays. The owners delivered the space to me in December instead of September. We just got approved for our liquor license and my architects are in the process of expediting permits. Caryn looks like a July grand opening. The Overflow party is going to be in the summer. Jimmy dcalexandrakis@aol.com

This is from Carol Giorgio via the Overflow - POWERING UP: It's always a happy day in Chicago when a landmark building is brought back to life, so what's happening at the former powerhouse for the  Chicago and North Western Railway at 211 N. Clinton is worth recognition. Unused for more than 40 years, it's been converted to office and restaurant space in an $11 million project by Structured Development. Coming this spring, the ground floor will get a restaurant called Powerhouse.  The owner will be Jimmy Alexander, operating partner of Greektown's Pegasus restaurant. It'll include a white-tablecloth section and a carryout operation for commuters and the downtown lunch rush. Finished in 1911, the Beaux Arts product of the Frost & Granger architectural firm is known for its smokestack that rises to 225 feet.

Even though I didn't know you or your parents (we lived near 74th & Exchange) I am thinking of you today on your Mother's Yarzeit. I really enjoy reading this every month, looking to see if I know any of the people writing in. You really do a great job. Lois Freeman Levitt (Class of June '54) momlevitt@aol.com

 

Note from Caryn - Thanks to Jim Hoggatt I have a photo of his class of June 1951 from South Shore High School.  The photo was taken 1947 - 1948. A good looking bunch of guys! While I can’t make the photo appear here, you can always ask Jim to send you one.  The photo includes Jack Linton, Ron Waxman, John Summerfield, Bill Hall, Rich  Spurgin, Bill Robson, Herb Thurman, John Phillips, Harry Casler, Ray Johnson, Bruce Brown and Jim Hoggatt  (Brown moved prior to graduating), The football player was Bill Smith from the class of January 1951. Jim Hoggatt jmhjwh@comcast.net

 

I live in Kalamazoo, Michigan. My sister died in a fire when she was 6. My brother died before his 62nd birthday. He was an artist named Dewey Garner. My grandparents ran the Gardner Deli located at 6558 S Rhodes on the corner of Marquette. I attended St. Joseph's (on the Near North Side) and St. Leo (on the South Side) grammar schools and Academy of Our Lady (on the South Side) and Holy Name Cathedral High Schools. You made me an honorary South Shoreite. I am so honored to be a part of your circle. Thanks, RoseElla Lyke rose.ella.lyke@wmich.edu

 

I can't begin to tell you how much I am enjoying reading your book.  Not only does it bring back memories, but when I read that you attended Horace Mann I freaked out!  I taught kindergarten there from 1958-1970 when I transferred to the Northwest side.  I left for Florida from South Shore in 1975. Reading about the Kickapoo Inn was a kick!  I ate there once and now know it was a bookie joint, thanks to you.  My dad was a Jewish policeman in South Shore and worked out of the Grand Crossing Police Station.  He retired after 38 years on the force right around the time your dad was killed.  I'm sure my father knew your dad.  His name was Joseph Steinberg.  He passed away at 89 in 1995.  I really appreciate the newsletter, the book, and all of the memories you've stirred up in my mind. Sandra Steinberg-Best SpnkySndy@aol.com

 

I've been working freelance from home since last September. I recently starting teaching a basic computer design class at Columbia College downtown, and will teach two classes in the fall. My sons are still in the Army. Older son Sgt. Steve and his wife Sgt. Cassie came through here with their daughter Morgan a little before Christmas. They were relocating from Ft. Bliss TX to Ft. Drum NY, to serve with the 10th Mtn. Div. Andrew is still with the 4/123 Avn at Ft. Wainwright, AK.  Both boys did a year in Iraq, about the same time (to the consternation of their mother). When Steve returned from Iraq, he had one month with his wife before she was sent to Korea for a year. They should get to stay together at Ft. Drum for a while, Drew expects to be back in Iraq in July, unless things change, which they often do.  I was at Ft. Benning in December, helping train marksman. Those boys are now in Iraq. While not related to me, they are someone's children and I worry about all of them. Jeff Marienthal   addesigner@earthlink.net

 

I was talking to my brother David and, although he has read your book, he had no idea that you were doing this news letter. He insisted that I immediately get him signed up. David Monaghan is the Managing editor of the Herald News in Joliet. He says, he meets so many people with South Shore ties, that it baffles the mind. Thank you for all of this. Your news letter connected us to an old neighbor, and I'm sure there will be more. What a loving thing, you have done.  Tia Monaghan tiamonaghan@gmail.com

 

 I was saddened to learn of Mr. Boyajian' s death.  I recall he helped sponsor a science fair project for me and Robert Conn and we did win a prize.  I recall the Mitchell's lived across the street from us at 77th & Luella, and that they had the only Cadillac on the block.  We didn't have a car until I started college, and I think I was the only one in my class without a car.  I graduated South Shore in 1957 and recently received the invitation for the 50th reunion from Al Telser. I last saw him in college when we both worked as packers/shipping clerks for a biological supply house during summers and weekends. I was also pleased to read Rich Snyder's note.  We were lab partners in Mr. Crane's chemistry class. My sister (SSHS 1959) still lives in Chicago. After college and med school at the U of C, I went to McGill in Montreal for my internship and residency; served as a US Navy doctor-both sea duty (as ship's company and with Fleet Marine force) and then in Washington DC ( part of the time with HQUSMC),and then did cardiology at GW Univ. I stayed on their faculty for a while and then went into private practice in the Northern Virginia suburbs and became chief of cardiology at Inova Fairfax Hospital (we became listed as one of the top 50 heart hospitals by US News and World Report). (Marty Lebowitz who also graduated SSHS is a urologist there). I retired from that in 1999 and did consultative work and retired from the State Department in July 2006.  Last month we moved to Asheville NC. and after we get settled will be looking for another career. Thanks again for sending me your newsletter. Max Maillis (maillis@alumni.uchicago.edu;)

 

Note from Caryn – Does anyone remember when the South Side Irish Parade went down 79^th Street?  Write in with your memories.

 

Thanks to the request in last month’s newsletter by Linda Shiffman, Allen Rosenston, treasurer for the SSHS of June 1957 45^th Reunion, was able to get information on Neal Politt (Politinsky) to Linda Shiffman for the Bowen 65^th Birthday Bash.  Thanks Allen!

 

Thanks to Allen Rosenbloom, I saw my first copy of your newsletter.  I was trying to find out about a Class of '59 reunion, and saw the appropriate information in your newsletter. Reunion organizers would have missed me because I only spent 3 years in high school, the last 2 at SSHS, and graduated in August of 1959.  Most of my friends were in the Class of '59. I "played" the violin in the orchestra, and the flute in the band, with Mr. Gorman as the director.  The band marched at the football games.  I also remember synchronized swimming with the Aqua Debs.  We felt we were the equivalent of the Esther Williams synchronized troupe.  Geraldine Ruksza Baader geraldinebaader@cs.com

 

I recently read your book, and I have a question.  What relationship, if any, exists between your parents and yourself and the people who ran a business on the north side (Devon and then Lincoln Avenue) called Lazar's, which was also children's furniture and toys.  I had family in South Shore.  My Aunt and Uncle Helen and Sidney Simon and their children Richard and Lynn (who would be about our age) lived at 6800 South Bennet and I know were Wee Folks customers.  I am more familiar with the North Side businesses, and wondered about the relationship. Linda Turner lturnerfsa@yahoo.com

 

Note from Caryn – We were not related but we did a lot of cross business with Lazars Juvenile. They had more wheeled goods and we had more toys.  We both wanted to meet our customer’s requests.  So when a customer requested an item we did not carry we called Lazars and vice versa. 

 

I had Mrs. Crossman for 5th grade at O'Keeffe.  I even remember her room was 216.  She was a great teacher.  I split 5th grade time with Mrs. Crossman and Mrs. Foran, who was across the hall in Room 215!!  Also across the hall was Miss (not Ms.) McAvoy (in 217) who I had for 4th grade, as well as Ms. Cummings, downstairs in Room 118.  Please give my warm regards to Mrs. Crossman.  I remember her as a great teacher, very kind but firm (which she needed to be with us 11 and 12 year olds).  A heartfelt hi to anyone from the mid-60's O'Keeffe, and late-60's SSHS crowd.  Also, I regret that I never visited your family's store, as Tiny Tots on 71st between Chappel and Clyde was walking distance from our apartment on 68th and Chappel, and we only had one car which my Dad drove to work (Advance Window Shade & Venetian Blind on 64th and Stony) everyday.    Rick Weinberg, O'Keeffe School, class of 65, SSHS, 1969 weinberg@fmhi.usf.edu

 

My name is Allen Anderson and, until 1967, I lived at 7645 S. Ridgeland.  I attended South Shore High School from 1959 through 1963. My sister Karen (Anderson) Vernon gave me your book, “The Pied Piper of South Shore”.  What a marvelous Christmas present that was!  I remember visiting Wee Folks often.  I particularly enjoyed the Remco electronic toys.  I also was an usher at the Avalon Theater, across the street.  Your book brought back many fond memories of Wee Folks, Mr. & Mrs. Lazar, and the old South Shore neighborhood. I remember the yo-yo contests well.  I forgot about the Christmas and Easter celebrations, but you brought back that memory. Maybe you were there when the Avalon played the movie ‘West Side Story”.  As an usher, I had to see that movie over 43 times. My lovely wife and I are now retired and living in Bend, Oregon.  We have two grown daughters and one grandson. Thank you for writing this book and for establishing this newsletter.  Your book is a real treasure. Allen Anderson blueturtle@bendbroadband.com

 

My name is Barry Demovsky, Horace Mann 56' SSHS 1960. My dad was a dentist in South Chicago & we lived at 8153 S. Paxton. I remember going into your store with my mom shopping. I think she knew them as well. My two brothers, Ron (SSHS 1952, passed away 1971) and Syd (SSHS1956) used to walk to the Avalon every Saturday morning for cartoons & a double feature & yes there was a fish tank in the lobby. Mom always said if we were in any kind of trouble on the way, stop in the store & your parents would call. Thank goodness I never had to do that, but I still remember that. I won 3rd place in a Duncan YO-YO contest on stage. Barry Demovsky, President, Northwestern Inv Mgmt Co. barrydemo@comcast.net

 

I wanted to write a short note thanking you for producing the "SOUTH SHORE NEWS SPOT".  We lived in the "Manor", on Oglesby, and my folks owned a beauty shop on 100th Street, "Eli's Hair Fashions." My brother (Bruce), sister (Andrea) and I went to Luella, and my brother graduated from Bowen in 1963 (I think!)  I had a "Luella" web page up a few years ago, but the internet provider went out of business, and I took it down. I have two cousins who went to South Shore - Bonnie and Elaine Zoloto - both are living in Calif. I keep in touch with some of the Luella crowd, and we see each other on occasion. My brother went to a few of the South Side reunions in Chicago. Jeff Zolitor jeff523@comcast.net]

 

I just finished the March South Shore Newsletter.  It seems definite now that there were goldfish in the lobby of the Avalon Theater.  I will send an email to the Chicago director of the Theatre Historical Society of America to see if they might know when the goldfish were there.  I'll let you know if I find out anything.  Here is the Society's web site. http://www.historictheatres.org/  Dan Nolan, SSHS 69  d.p.nolan@att.net

 

I am Jeanne Hollman.  I graduated from Bradwell in 53 and South Shore in 57 and will be going to the 50th reunion in June. My brother, Fred Hollman graduated from Bradwell and South Shore 5 years before me. We lived at 7734 Phillips. Behind us was an empty lot with victory gardens, junk and weeds.  We flew kites there and made the tails from rags. We also cooked potatoes in a hole we dug out. I also remember getting Kool-Aid in packages for the first time and eating it out of the package as if it was illegal. I remember your store. I frequently visited the stationery store on the north side of 71st street. I was about 2 blocks west of South Shore Drive. Jean Hollman    jhdesign11@yahoo.com

 

Note from Caryn - Dan Nolan helped a reader looking for her mom’s picture.  Thanks Dan.  “Dear Ms. Slate: I saw your note in the South Shore Newsletter concerning pictures of your mother.  You might want to contact Hyde Park High School.  They may have the 1947 yearbook in their archives, and they would be willing to scan or copy your mother's yearbook picture and send it to you as an email attachment.  Or you could arrange to go to the school and copy the picture.  The same is true if they have any pictures of her as part of some club, etc.” Dan Nolan, South Shore, 1969    d.p.nolan@att.net

 

MITCHELL’S – What is the real story?

My cousin just told me that Mitchell’s is re-opening at the same place. Lois Veit nanalois@bellsouth.net

 

Sorry to tell you that Mitchell’s Ice Cream that relocated to Homewood closed a few months ago. A national chain moved in a few blocks away and as their business had been declining anyway, they closed. Glad to hear Cunis’s is still operating. Alan R. Engel - SSHS    ace413@sbcglobal.net

 

I will tell you what I was told.  (A friend) was called by the new owners. She said that she thinks that the work has started because the closed sign has been removed.  I can do is keep you posted.  I promise that as soon as I can get the information I will let you know.  Because of your newsletter I have heard from many old friends, and even found someone that I thought had passed away.  The woman was a friend of my mother's.  We had lunch with her and she remembered your parents.  She obviously is not on your list, but someone let me know about her. Lois Veit  nanalois@bellsouth.net

 

CORRECTION

The February issues had this story.  The story is true but I messed up the email address

Sorry! Sandra’s correct email address is SpnkySndy@aol.com

 

I lived there from 1941-1975.  Yes, my family and I stayed till the bitter end.  I taught at Bryn Mawr and Horace Mann after college.  Attended Hyde Park H.S., and went to my 50th reunion in 2002 and found all of my old friends.  We are now e-mail pals and that is how we came to remember Wee Folks and the Avalon Theatre   Sandra Steinberg

 

Jerry is mistaken about the UC Condominiums on 55th St.  The architect was

I. M. Pei. ….Unless Mr. Friedman was working for Pei. See:http://www.uchicago.edu/hydeparkartsculture/hydepark.pdf 

Jeff Marienthal   addesigner@earthlink.net

 

SOUTH SHORE TARS ALUMNI CLUB

Shelly Stark at South Shore High School is the Tars Alumni Club connection.  They accept donations to help current SSHS grads that want to attend college.  You can call Shelly at the school at 773-535-6175 from 9 am – 11:30 am and at home in the evenings at 312-224-3591.  His e-mail is shellystrk@yahoo.com.  You can also contact one of the four principals Mr. Macklin at DLMacklin@cps.k12.il.us

NEWS/BOOKS/TV  RECOMMENDATIONS

An article entitled Tug of War Hits South Shore by Noreen S. Ahmed-Ullah, a Tribune staff reporter was printed in the Chicago Tribune on March 4, 2007. It concerns how South Shore residents are fighting a plan for islands in lake.  The proposal is that private lakefronts between 71st and 75th Streets be outflanked by public islands built into the lake. This South Shore neighborhood was laid out as a suburban community after the Great Chicago Fire and was home to the Stevens family, which built the Stevens Hotel, now known as the Chicago Hilton, and the founder of the exclusive South Shore Country Club. You can read more about it at www.chicagotribune.com in their archives

Note from Caryn - Thanks to Brenda Rossini for this information

BOOMER YEARS SHOW

 

Note from Caryn - How many of you saw "Remembering Chicago: The Boomer Years" and “The Southwest Side” on Chicago public television?  The shows covered the 1950s and 1960s in many Chicago neighborhoods.  Comments?  Memories?   Email me!

 

Remembering Chicago: The Boomer Years is currently available on DVD with a $60 donation to WTTW11. You may get two copies of the Boomer Years with a $100 donation or you may get the entire 4 disc collection of Remembering Chicago, which includes Remembering Chicago, Remember Chicago Again, Remembering Chicago and WWII, and The Boomer Years, with a $120 donation plus $4 for shipping and handling.
You may donate by phone with a debit/credit card by calling, Janie, at 773-509-5643. You may also go online at www.wttw.com or send a check/money order along with a note advising which premium you are requesting. If you would like to receive a phone call confirming we received your check, please address the envelope to Attn: Janie, Member Services and I will gladly call you to confirm we received
your donation.

 

Note from Caryn – Remember to support your local public television station. 

 

SUCCESSES BY FORMER SOUTH SHOREITES    Anyone have a special event showcasing them that is open to the public, a new book launch or the scoop on famous people who were former South Shoreites?

 

THE POWER OF KEEPING IN TOUCH – REUNIONS - If your class is planning a reunion please email me and I will include it in the newsletter.  We have lots of planning going on now.  Add yours to the list!

 

Alumni of SSHS will present scholarship checks to four lucky 2007 SSHS graduates at their commencement exercises at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park in Chicago on June 12, 2007 at 11 a.m.  Jerry Frey spearheaded this effort and $2,000 was raised.  He could use another $400 in donations to make up the deficit and reach the goal of $2,000.  They will present four separate checks to one graduate from each of the four schools on the South Shore Campus.  All the donors are welcome to be present at this ceremony.  Contact Jerry Frey for more information.  Any alumni that can send a small donation to the SSHS Scholarship fund to boost the size of the four scholarships making them eligible to be a member of our awards committee.  It will be a good excuse to informally get together and reminisce about the 50's in our beloved South Shore.  Jerry Frey drcllc@msn.com

 

Ann Schlensky (in Chicago) is organizing a committee for the 50^th reunion of Hyde Park High School 1958 to be held around September, 2008. Ann can be contacted at AS8340@aol.com and Stan Levin at houseofmontrose@msn.com

                                                    

Bowen High School – Class of 1960 is having a 65th Birthday Bash on Saturday, August 18, 2007 at the Fountain Blue in Des Plaines (3 minutes from the airport). This is to celebrate that the members of this class have all reached the age of 65.  If graduates have not heard from them yet, please contact Linda Shlaes Schiffman at 847-251-7383 or lischiffman@aol.com or Stanley Cohen at Cohencpa@ix.netcom.com.  Even those who cannot attend will get updates on classmates and a reunion book.   Responses have been overwhelmingly enthusiastic, so don't miss out.

 

Bowen High School – Class of 1967 – July 7, 2007 is the date for the 40^th Bowen reunion at the Cubby Bear in Chicago.  The cost is $50.  Email any questions to Adriane Bernstein at surveylady@comcast.net or send your check to “Class of ‘67’ Reunion Fund”, c/o Adriane Harris Bernstein, 381 Kelburn Road, #315, Deerfield, Ill 60015 or email her at surveylady@comcast.net.

 

Bradwell Grammar School – Class of “67” – reunion for our 40^th will occur in summer of 2007. Anyone who has not connected with us moved or changed e-mail addresses in the last couple of years e-mail Sheri at skcjd2@aol.com, Thanks. Sheri Kessler   

CVS High School – Class of 1957 - Your newsletter is amazing as it pertains to putting people in touch after a forty or fifty year gap.  It helped me make contact with former employers Ken & Shonnie Johnson after fifty-one years.  Last week I received a phone call from John Sanford, who found me in your publication.  He was a graduate from SSHS in class of June 1958.  We were roommates in freshman year at NIU in 1959 along with Gerald Liebmann (January '58 SSHS).  I feel that this will continue making more reconnections as time goes along.  I am now working on the 50 year reunion of the 1957 classes from CVS to be held in October, 2007.  I have built a database of 561 of the 752 classmates to date.  It keeps me out of trouble.  I will have to find a new hobby once they are all finished.  Stan Fish (scottdolph@kc.rr.com)

 

Note from Caryn - You can reach Stan at his cell number - 708-466-8566 or at his address - 6729 W. 126th Court, Overland Park, KS 66209.

 

OLP 1957 Reunion? – I heard from Marcelle Kirk Lynott that an OLP reunion was being planned.  Please someone send me more information for the next newsletter.  It is September 28-30- 2007. 

 

South Shore High School - Class of 1957 -.Doug Malewicki sent me information for the SSHS 50^th Chicago reunion which will be on June 30, 2007.  Contact Douglas J. Malewicki · President/Chief Scientist · AeroVisions, Inc., 14962 Merced Circle, Irvine, CA 92604 · Phone/ FAX: (949) 559-7113, email: DMalewicki@cox.net  - Fiftieth High School Reunion Invitation: www.sshs57.com

 

South Shore High School Class of June 1957 is holding its 50th Reunion this summer.  Plans are well underway and as of mid-March, over 80 people are planning to come.  Al Telser and Allen Rosenston have planned a 50th Reunion buffet dinner on Sunday July 1, 2007, at the South Gate Cafe in Lake Forest, Illinois.  If members or friends of the June 1957 class have not received a paper invitation or a pdf , please contact: Al Telser, 1704 Cleveland, Evanston, IL 60202;  847-866-8466, Email: agt@northwestern.edu  or Allen M. Rosenston, 45 Prairie Park Dr. #409, Wheeling, IL 60090-2729; phone: 847-459-6527, fax: 847-459-6525, cell: 847-347-8114 allen@rosenston.com  There are still 40 classmates who can't be found. Please contact either AT or AMR, and you will be sent an invitation by US mail or e-mail. An updated list of the entire class will be sent by

e-mail to all class members we have an e-mail address for by the end of March. These are the people for which we have no email addresses:

Forbes Baker, Carol Bedore, Brenda Berman, Richard Buchholtz, Jacqueline Byer, Patricia Cameron, James Clay, Sidney Duren, James Elam, Patricia Feldman, Judy Ferguson, Susan Glickman, Sheila (Hart) Goldberg, James Gordon, Marilynne Grosbernd, Thomas Hansen, David Hargrove, Linda Schumacher Heidt, Melvin Henry, Margaret Hind, Edward Karp, Joanne Kozlowski, Carolyn Larsen, Marie Leber, Martin Lewis, Richard Lockwood, Fred Matthes, Diane McFadden, Doris Palicke McNeil, Herta Meyn, Jacqueline Finley Musil, Ronald Osteimer, Mel Price, John Proby, Richard Rice, Judith Warner Rodak, Annette Schauert, Grace Schultz, Nancy Skogberg, Barbara Ally Slupczynskis,  Conrad Stephanites, Diana Szidik, Barbara Vipraio, Joan Lense Walters, Betsy Tapley Wright and Sue Wysocki.

 

Note from Caryn – Can anyone help make this reunion greater by finding their classmates?

 

South Shore High School – Class of June 1958 – My name is Phyllis (Kramer) Witt, class of June 1958.  Arlene Freya Blitstein and I are in the process of starting the 50th reunion of SSHS.  It will be held in the summer of 2008.  The class of June 1958 and January 1959 will be included.  Anyone in these classes and those interested in being on the committee, please e-mail me at pooksw77@sbcglobal.net.  I am looking forward to seeing everyone, talking about old times and having a great reunion. Classmates will soon receive their first notification with information to save the date. 

 

South Shore High School – Class of 1959 – A January and June Classes Reunion ~ Do you know someone who graduated from SSHS in January or June 1959?  We are in the planning phases of a 50^th reunion in 2009. A “Steerage” (not steering) committee is forming.  If you or someone you know was a member of  these classes please have them email me at caryn@cmapublishing.net or the new class email to Bill Currie at w.currie@sbcglobal.net

 

Ralph Parisi family benefit – Don’t forget the benefit for Frank Parisi’s brother’s family on April 28, 2007. They need silent auction items, donations etc. The event will be at 115 Bourbon Street, Merrionette Park, IL. (Around 115th & Pulaski) and will involve a $20.00 donation per person. The family faces huge medical bills on all fronts and increasing concerns about their survival in the future. They have room for 1000 to attend. Contact Frank Parisi for more information. parisif@prodigy.net

 

CMJ Reunion - One-two-three...shhhhh. - Calling all campers, staff and CMJ supporters!  The annual Hyde Park YMCA Camp Martin Johnson Midwest Picnic will be held Sat., July 14, 2007 from 1-5 p.m. at the (Promontory) Point, 53rd St. and the Lakefront. Bring your food, drink, frisbees and camp memories and join the crowd at the north side fire pit. Don't worry.  We'll be done in time for some of you to attend the Kenwood Class of '77 Reunion that evening. Nearly 300 folks have come together here over the past six years. For more information contact Dan Schultz theschultzes@verizon.net  or Karen Pride - poufette@yahoo.com

 

REQUEST FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE

I am trying to get national exposure for The Pied Pier of South Shore book. This will assure that more books will be available.  If you know an agent, publisher or made for television film director in the memoir, social history or true crime genre please let me know. Many thanks for your support of my book and your encouragement for spreading the word on this story.  Caryn Amster caryn@cmapublishing.net

 

Shameless nepotism – help for my daughter, home and motorcycle trailer for sale  

My daughter Kim is selling her Bartlett, Illinois house and a large hardly used 26 foot long motorcycle hauling/camping trailer. (trailer = $16,500).  The reduced asking price for the house is $372,900. Visit the website at http://www.realtor.com/Prop/1078341009

You can call her at 630-776-3047 or email her at rocz63@comcast.net

 

Stop now and forward this newsletter to friends.  If you are reading someone else’s copy and want your own emailed every month, email caryn@cmapublishing.net.

 

CONDOLENCES …………and  MY FAVORIE TEACHER 

Do you know of someone special who passed away and you want to share their memory and story with my readers?  Email me at caryn@cmapublishing.net – This one was sent to me with the photo. Thanks 

 

These replies are regarding last month’s query on Earl Hagberg

Earl graduated in1955 and I thought he took a shot at pro football. I dated his sister for a short time in the fall of 1955 when I was a junior at HP.  Lou Ann was a freshman or sophomore in the fall of 1954 (two or three years younger than Earl and idolized him). She also attended the U of Wisconsin. Regrettably, she was killed in a car crash in the Fall of 1960 either driving home from school or returning there. The last time I saw Earl and his parents was at Lu Ann's wake. Jerry Barich jtbarich@cox.net

 

I have received several wonderful accounts with a common thread - he was a great guy - exactly my recollection. He is one of the special people in my life who cross all descriptions, religious affiliation, race, educational accomplishments, or lack thereof, etc. The newsletter opens my brain to fond memories - thank God and Caryn.

Jim Gibbons    jim1936g@yahoo.com

 

Earl Hagberg was a successful financial advisor in Chicago. He died about 2 years ago. I think a number of people from lots of different classes kept in contact with him through the years. Dottie Gordon Benjamin, class of June, 1957 Dottieb01@aol.com

 

Note from Caryn - Goodbye Shelly, my classmate – Sheldon (Shelly) Lewis, (class of '59) passed away 12/3/05 of a brain tumor.  His wife established a scholarship in his name for his beloved South Shore H.S. He knew about this scholarship before he died - he gave him a great deal of joy to know it would be done in his memory.

 

It looks like my search for Fred Sadowski (SS Class of 1956) is over.  Doug Malewicki E-Mailed from Irvine California informing me that Fred died in Florida at age 46 of a heart attack. Phil Humble usmcwx@comcast.net

 

My Mom sent me an obituary notice about Fred Sadowski dying of a heart attack at age 46!  It was quite a long time ago.  He was living in Florida at the time.  Fred was also a neighborhood hangout buddy as a teenager and my roommate at Newman Hall, U of I, Champaign.  Remember his Olds 88?  We had many fun times.  Forty Six seems so young now.    DMalewicki@cox.net

 

I'm very sorrowful to inform each of you that our dearest George Curts passed away on March 9, 2007. Recently George was diagnosed with Liver Cancer.  His passing occurred at his home in South Bend, Indiana under the most comfortable atmosphere anyone could have wanted. George was always such a gentleman. I ask that each of you remember him in your fondest thoughts. Joanne Havenhill    jhaven1229@aol.com

 

 

 

MY SPEAKING DATES IN 2007! 

Visit my website Calendar of Events for more detailed information on my upcoming events. www.cmapublishing.net – I am now booking talks and book signings into 2007-2008 at such places as libraries, business associations, chambers of commerce and women’s groups.  If you know a group that needs a speaker in the greater Chicago area, have them contact me.

 

ACCOLADES AND ATTA GIRLS – These are some of the many emails I have received about my book and newsletter.  Many thanks!

 

My wife and I enjoyed reading your book, Pied Piper of South Shore, while recently driving to Calif. from Washington State. It jogged a lot of memories.  I did not move to So. Shore until my junior year so never got to know Wee Folks. Tell me that you had a lot of help with the details of those events that happened 40+ years ago.  I certainly can't remember things in anywhere near that kind of detail during that period. I don't know how inclusive you intended to be in the list of schools on p.246, but I see you listed one as far north as 6700, and of course Hyde Park High.  So I will note one more that myself, and perhaps other Hyde Parkers may have attended:  Walter Scott Elementary School, 6435 Blackstone (according to my 4th grade report card).  I cannot find it on any current list of Chicago schools so it may have been closed. Thanks for the memories. Bob Robinson, Wenatchee, WA, South Shore High 1958 robinson@clearwest.com

 

I just wanted you to know that my prayers are with you. The pain never goes away, especially when certain dates come up. I hope to one day meet you, I truly enjoy being an honorary South Shore person. God Bless and have a great day. RoseElla Lyke rose.ella.lyke@wmich.edu

 

HOW I DID IT~ Note from Caryn

People have asked and I do give classes now on how I wrote and researched the Pied Piper book.  I DID have lots of help with details in the book. It was originally supposed to be a nice little book about a toy store.  But as I researched (read 19 books+) I realized that many people did not know why their beloved neighborhood declined and I felt obligated to tell them. One chapter is totally footnoted for that reason. The Jesse Jackson,  Malcolm X, Nation of Islam and Jeff Fort connections were especially tough to research but worth it. My dad’s murder case required that I go to the Cook County Courthouse at 26th and California for records and photos of the crime and then to the Daley Center in downtown Chicago to search the 3,000 page transcript of the trial. I also went to Harold Washington Library where all old yellow pages are on microfiche in 2 point type to write the addendum on stores on 79^th.   It took 5 years and lots of work but it was worth it.  I realized I had to stop somewhere geographically with schools and stores and I am sorry to have omitted the Hyde Park area but this was only supposed to be about 79th street. 

 

Thank you all for forwarding copies of this newsletter to friends and family and thank you for your support of the South Shore News Spot Newsletter and the Pied Piper book and art work.

 

Many thanks to Bill, my husband, and a non South Shoreite.  He diligently proof reads this newsletter every month.  He has heard ALL the stories by now.

 

If you find typographical or grammatical errors in this email, they're here for a purpose. Some people actually enjoy looking for them and we strive to please as many people as possible.

 

For those who have had problems accessing my website – it is now Foxfire accessible! 

 

Many and More and More Happy Memories ………………Caryn

 

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