SOUTH SHORE NEWS SPOT   May  2007    © 2007 by CMA Publishing

By Caryn Lazar Amster

Hello everyone – Thanks for 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.  You are all news reporters with assignments to tell me the stories of your reunions and your meetings and your lives through the newsletter and retell your interesting and valuable memories.  Welcome new subscribers.

The history of this 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 and signing the Pied Piper book. But I received so many emails from South Shoreites after the book came out that I felt compelled to start reuniting old friends. It seems to be working.  Caryn

This is not just a South Shore High School newsletter it is for all schools that were around from 1940-1970 in South Shore. 

 

Word count for this issue is 10,420 words.  Total read time about 32 minutes.  THE HUGEST-EST issue yet – 20 pages - thanks to all of you!

This month we feature reunions, stories, past sports heroes, people seeking friends, updates on South Shoreites, the South Shore area and much more! 

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

THANK YOU

 

“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. 

 

What a packed newsletter! Thanks for including my emails.  Perhaps the Jess Iverson someone mentioned this time was part of the Iverson family that lived on the 7800 block of S Marquette Ave.  I'd asked about Pat Iverson, and I THINK her younger brother's name may be Jesse. By the way, the blurb listed as from Geraldine Ruksza-Baader was actually from me, too.  Maybe you can print a correction in next month's newsletter? Thanks! Arlene Ruksza-Lenz  arlenerl@netscape.com

 

I wondered if you can locate "Sharon Kaplan".  While I was in the class of 56, I believe she was one or two years later.  I don't know her married name.  Any help would be appreciated.  Morton Kaplan Mortk123@comcast.net

 

I remember your parents and the store very well, and I have very fond memories of all of South Shore.  I grew up at 77th & Cregier, right through the alley from the high school.  (Naturally, I was always late for class).  In fact, most of my best friends still are the ones from South Shore.  There's something about the bond South Siders have that keeps us all together.  It was a wonderful place to grow up. I remember the Avalon.  How about the Tally-Ho Restaurant right across the street & The Kickapoo Inn down the block?  The grocery store down a few blocks (Al's?) & Prendergast's Drug Store on 79th & Cregier?

I've been in broadcasting, running television stations, for virtually all my career and enjoyed it.  It has taken me from Chicago to Miami to Portland, Oregon, to Phoenix & now back to Chicago,.which is where I'm going to stay (Northbrook), except for the winter months which I plan to spend in Florida. I loved your newsletter.  It helped me catch up with folks I remember from so long ago.  I would love to hear from anyone who may remember me (Class of February, 1960). Have you heard anything about class reunions for Feb '60?  We had such a small class (130) that it probably would make sense to combine it with June. Bob Blacher, bobblacher@aol.com.

 

Just yesterday I was fiddling on the computer.  What a bonanza, especially since I married a north sider whose parents told him the evils of venturing onto the south side of Chicago.  They always made me feel like a lesser being. I lived at 78th and Cornell, walked to the Avalon and everywhere else, up and back 79th to Horace Mann Elementary and eventually SSHS.  In fact, I walked home my first day in kindergarten because the kid who was supposed to walk me home forgot about me!  I asked a patrol boy, "which way is 79th Street?" and I looked right (nada), then left and saw the Avalon marquee.  Off I trudged and found my own way home. Thank you for what you've done to bring back wonderful memories, since we really can't go home again.  I tried in 1988 to go back for a visit and my friend.  The driver went so fast I couldn't relate.  Is it really that bad now?  I had hoped good people would move back in and restore it. The last reunion of my SSHS Class I attended was in 1970 and thought I'd quit while I was ahead as I looked pretty good then!   Maybe I will hear from some old classmates. Paulette Bernbach Carollo - SS Class of 1950   madplut@cfl.rr.com

 

 I am Douglas Schwartz.  I graduated Caldwell Grammar School in 1964, Bowen High School in1968, and the University of Illinois Chicago, in 1974.  My mother, then Cynthia Geiderman, was among the first graduating classes of South Shore, and it is fun to look at her yearbooks and see the pictures of some of her famous classmates like Marv Levy, Bruce Roberts (then Robertsky), and Attorney General Bill Scott.  Her two older brothers both served in WWII, and it was interesting having her tell us all of the stories of her and her friends partying with the soldiers in downtown Chicago while she was still in high school.  Her father owned one of the larger laundry services in the area, Calumet Laundry, so even during times of the depression, her family tended to have a little more than most.  My father graduated from Hyde Park High School, my brothers were from the University of Chicago Lab School, so our family had a very strong South Side upbringing.  My family moved to Hyde Park in the summer of 1969, and my father sold his apartment three years ago, in 2004, after my mother died.  A few months ago, I attended a fund raising affair at the South Shore Cultural Center and was truly amazed at how beautifully it has been restored.  It was my first time on the grounds, since growing up in the area, we were not allowed to enter or be members due to it being a "restricted club".  Growing up around 83rd & Stony Island, I spent virtually every Saturday at the Avalon Theater with my friends.  25¢ got you in, 15¢ bought you popcorn, and 10¢ bought you candy.  You could always go next door to the theater and buy the popcorn for 10¢ and have the extra nickel for another candy bar!!  Of course I remember going to your store often, and hopefully I wasn't one of the trouble making kids your father probably complained about. Our synagogue, Beth Am, was at 71st & Coles, right next to the Country Club entrance, so I spent some time roaming around 71st street, the Jeffrey and Hamilton Theaters, Peter Pan Restaurant at 71st & Jeffrey, as well as the YMCA. Like everyone else, there are so many great memories, and not enough letters and words to express all of them.  I still keep in contact with some of the '68 Bowenites, but would like to hear from anyone living in the neighborhood or who went to school at Caldwell or Bowen around that time. Douglas P Schwartz, doug.schwartz@walgreens.com

 

 I enjoyed reading the April newsletter given to me by Judy Levay Mosbacher. Include my name and email address in the newsletter. Andrea Simmons Freed-Krehbiel (SSHS 1963) drcraberry@cox.net

 

My name is Sam Haemovitz, class of June 1963.  I live in Phoenix, Arizona and would love to find anyone from my class that you know their locations.  I am particularly interested in finding Bruce or Wayne Gray.  If you can let me know how to get in contact with them, I sure would be happy. My email address is sphaemovitz@cox,net.

 

Thanks for adding me to your list.  I am part of a Horace Mann alumni group, graduating group of 1968. Our group had our own reunion a few years ago and we keep in close touch.  I also facilitate a Yahoo Group "HoraceMannAlumni" which is not regularly active, but when we have announcements and such, we use the Yahoo Group. Sherri Silvian (formerly Roman) KNAYDLL@yahoo.com

 

As a graduate of the Jan 1957 SSHS class, I also look forward to seeing your news letter. I had so much fun at our reunion last July (6 months early so we could avoid bad weather), I am going to attend the June 57 reunion. It appears that they are unable to locate Lee Weiner of the famous or infamous Chicago 7. Lee was my neighbor throughout grammar and high school, and I have not heard from or seen him since. I know his sister Rayna lives in the Chicago area, and also heard he had some fairly big job with the Federal Government in DC. If anyone out there knows where to find him (if he wants to be found), I would appreciate them letting me know. Keep all of the wonderful info coming. Barry Andrews, Northbrook, Illinois    bandrewsbbfl@aol.com.

 

I am looking for twins, Jim and Judy Nolan who lived in the 8100 block of Dorchester.  Their birthday is February 2, 1942.  They were the youngest children of Jack and Leola (Leona?) and have older brothers John and Joe and a sister, Mary. Jim and Judy would have graduated from St. Felicitas in 1956.  Jim went to Quigley and Judy to Mercy

(I think). Both entered religious orders and both left long ago, Jim was a Carmelite and Judy entered the Third Order of The Sisters of St. Dominic of Adrian, Michigan.  The folks in Michigan do not have any information. Unfortunately, they have fairly common names and I haven't been able to track them down.  I would like to make contact.  It has been a long time but we were "kids on the block" together.  We would "call for each other"...did you do that?  We would stand outside and shout......"yo Jimmmmmmeeeee, yo Judyyyyyy". Lynne Simcox  fitchum@aol.com

 

I am happy to have my e-mail available to anyone who asks.  Paul Nierman   paulnierman@pacbell.net

 

Does any one know where Curtis and Kenneth Coutts are these days? Curtis graduated from South Shore in 1954 and Ken in 1956. Jerry Barich   jtbarich@cox.net

 

I am not "really" South Shore, though I was born in SS Hospital.  My Mom grew up at 7763 Exchange and went to Mrya Bradwell.  My Uncle Ralph had Wagner's Jewelry and Watch Makers store on 79th near St. Brides.  My cousins Nelson and Paul Habenicht (who lived on Exchange and then Euclid) Michael, Jean and Richard Moran (who lived on Crandon) all went to South Shore HS. If anyone is looking for Habenicht's, the Moran's or Jane Wagner I can make a connection.  Actually, Paul Habenicht died about ten years ago.  The others live in Ohio, Illinois and Washington. I went to Avalon Park and Hirsch. Lynne Simcox   Fitchum@aol.com

 

JOE SONNEMAN graduated in spring '61, PhD, JD. now at the WA Veterans Home, Retsil, Washington near Bremerton. Thanks to those who answered my January post; someone said Howie Zeitz now an eminent allergist [no Nobel Prize yet], some said Bob Bessinger passed away [sorry to hear it].  I hear now and then from Alen Shub, teaching at NIU, and from David Goldberg, teaching math and playing French horn in Ann Arbor.  John Planer used to teach voice in Indiana, and Dave Golber went from math to Macedonian folk instruments to?  Henry Wertheimer, CPA, has visited from Madison WI, Paul Nierman still sailing in San Diego; Paul, also Elliot Abelson, Steve Schecter and/or Mitch Komaiko went to the 1960-65 "West Coast Reunion" a few years back. 

A major university is buying ALL my photographs.  senator-joe@hotmail.com

 

My sister-in-law, Vicki Kramer Fisher (SS '63), just sent me the newsletter. My husband, Loren Kramer, graduated in the class of June '59, and I graduated June '61. Loren went to Bryn Mawr, and I went to O'Keeffe. We all went to the University of Illinois, and Loren & I married in 1964. We have been living in Highland Park, IL since 1966. Please let anyone who is organizing reunions know that we are still kicking and interested in attending. Vivian Zlatnik Kramer   viviankramer@comcast.net

 

I’m trying to find Eleanor Butcher or Roosa, who was a friend of my family in the mid 1950’s, when she lived at 7641 S. South Shore Drive near Rainbow Park. She was about 20 years old at that time. If any of this sounds familiar, I'd appreciate your recollections.  Ellen Lieberman squirrellen@aol.com. 

 

I am writing to invite any and all Cancer Survivors to the National Cancer Survivor's Day in Michigan (actually June 3, 2007, but we are celebrating June 2, 2007). I am this year's chair person, and from what I understand there has never been a designated site per say for Kalamazoo, Michigan and the surrounding areas to honor our survivors. There are 14 counties that will be participating. A very brief history regarding National Cancer Survivor's Day...Twenty years ago, Richard and Annette Bloch (yes, one of the co-founders for H & R Block!!) held their first Cancer Survivor Rally in Kansas City, Missouri, to obtain media coverage that a diagnosis of cancer was not an automatic death sentence. This idea caught on in other communities and voila....National Cancer Survivors Day!! Richard Bloch a 26 year cancer survivor died at the "young" age of 78!! (He died of heart failure, July 21, 2004).  The date for the 24 hour Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society is June 2nd and June 3rd, starting at 11 a.m. The location is the Kalamazoo Air Zoo, located on Portage Road. Anyone wanting to join us or start a team, please contact me or Jean Thompson jean.thompson@cancer.org   I would be honored if we could honor those survivors who are still fighting the good fight. I am waiting for a cure today, so that I can cancel this event!! Thank you so much. RoseElla P. Lyke   rose.ella.lyke@wmich.edu

 

I would have been with the class of 54, at South Shore H.S.  I have already been in touch with Larry (Coco) Cohen and Shelly Stark.  They are dear friends of mine as we were all in the same crowd.  Sadly Sandy Kaplan Stock recently passed away as did the husband of Marlene Zisook. I am always looking for familiar names in your newsletter and would love to contact Barbara Rodin Newberger and Sharon Banks Hart.  I believe Elaine and Phyllis Kramer lived next door to me on Phillips.  Barbara Cohen Kloster  computersnoway@adelphia.net

 

Does anybody know the whereabouts of Lois Sternstein? She lived in South Shore but went to Hyde Park High from 1954-1956. She then transferred to Lakeview High School. Thank you. Stan Levin    houseofmontrose@msn.com

 

I went to SS Temple and was confirmed with Eve Sonneman.  I’ll never forget her piercing blue eyes.  I ran into her at the University of Illinois, but I don’t remember which year.  I attended from 1963-1968. I think I saw an article about her in Art News sometime in the late 1970s.   Bill Multack Hyde Park HS ‘63”   bmultack@bellsouth.net

 

WELCOME NEWSLETTER NEWCOMERS

I am gratified by the constant requests for The News Spot.  My book 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 79th Street.  The foreword is by 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 book has won several literary awards and rave reviews.  For more information, check out the website www.cmapublishing.net.

Note from Caryn - This is not just a South Shore newsletter!  It is for Bowen, Aquinas, CVS, Hyde Park, Hirsch, Leo, Carmel, Mendel and everyone with a south shore connection.  The only logo I have been sent is South Shore but I would be glad to use any other school logos I receive in a usable format. Thanks Caryn

Due to technical difficulties with the shopping cart on my website you can no longer purchase books and posters directly from the website. Please see page ONE of website for prices on books, posters and giclees (limited edition fine art prints) of the cover.  There is free shipping on Pied Piper posters until May 31st  To purchase books,  posters and fine art limited edition prints of the cover call me directly toll f*ree at 1-866-50-PIPER (74737).  I love to chat!  Or you can email me at caryn120@comcast.net 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.

 

There are less than 300 books left!  Posters and fine art prints are still available.

 

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. 

 

Virginia Tech aftermath - Thank goodness Shonnie Johnson’s grandson who attends the University was not involved in the recent massacre.  He walked through Norris Hall, the building in which the main part of the massacre took place, a couple of hours before the event. Our thoughts are with all of those affected. Shonnie says, “There has been great help offered by the University, including giving the students various options relative to these last few weeks.  It is a very caring community".

 

QUOTES OF THE MONTH

 

 “I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury.” - Groucho Marx  

“My wife has a slight impediment in her speech. Every now and then she stops to breathe.” - Jimmy Durante

When Albert Einstein’s wife asked him to change clothes to meet the German Ambassador he said “if they want to see me, here I am. If they want to see my clothes, open my closet and show them my suits."   

 

“When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die.” Eleanor Roosevelt          

Thanks for the following submission go to my SSHS classmate Roger Feinberg Words Women Use:
1.) FINE: This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.
2.) Five Minutes: If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour.  Five Minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.
3.) Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in "Fine."
4.) Go Ahead: This is a dare, not permission. DON'T DO IT!
5.) Loud Sigh: This is actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about "Nothing." (Refer back to #3 for the meaning of "Nothing.")
6.) That's Okay: This is one of the most dangerous statements a woman can make to a man. "That's okay" means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.
7.) Thanks: A woman is thanking you, do not question, or faint. Just say "You're welcome, Honey."
8.) Don't worry about it, I got it: A dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking "What's wrong?"  For the woman's response, refer to # 3.

Send this to the men you know, to warn them about arguments they can avoid if they remember the terminology. Send this to all the women you know to give them a good laugh, because they know it's true!!!

 

BYE BYE BOOKSTORES –You can no longer purchase The Pied Piper of South Shore books in bookstores or on Amazon. But you can always get them directly from me.  Check out the website www.cmapublishing.net for information on the book.  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).  Email caryn120@comcast.net 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.

EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGE??? - We are over 1,700 strong now!  If you change your email address please send me your new one.  Once they bounce I take you off the list. 

WEBSITES/BLOGS OF THE MONTH

Visit the Overflow Pub Website at the Tide 1947 posting.  You will have a surprise. Daniel Yovich  - danyovich@sbcglobal.net  - I graduated in 1948 from SSHS and am a Professor Emeritus from Purdue University and currently live in Grand Rapids, MI.

From Caryn – Here’s how to do it! Go to http://groups.google.com/group/Overflow?hl=en Sign up to receive the publication and go to the Pub area.  Search for 1947 Tide and you will see a list of all the stores listed below.  The Overflow Pub Website is a fun place to go.    

STORIES AND MEMORIES TO SHARE

Notes from Caryn – In a letter from Diane Matalas she thrilled me by saying she was keeping all my newsletters in a special binder and hopes to keep my parent’s memory eternal. Thanks for that – We have over 20 monthly issues of the newsletter chock full of memories thanks to all of you

Here is a question for readers - Does anyone remember the Weekly Reader? Write in with your memories

MEMORIES - Thanks to Daniel Yovich [danyovich@sbcglobal.net]

These are the names of the business's that helped sponsor South Shore
High's annual year book, the Tide, in 1947. How many do you recognize?

Gibson Studio, Tide publisher
Bryn Mawr Jeweler, 2125 E. 71st St.
Shore Sport Center, 2480 E. 75th St.
Jeffrey Book and Card Shop, 1938 E. 71st St.
Hirsch's Grocery, 1854 E. 75th St.
SSHS PTA
Logan's Formals, 1904 E. 71st St
Wee Folks, 1852 E. 79th St.
The Colonial Grill, 7100 S. Jeffrey
South Chicago YMCA, 3039 E. 91st St.
Avalon Wall Paper and Paint Co., 1854 E. 79th St.
Neiberger Chevrolet, 7744 Stony Island Ave.
J.F. Kidwell Florists, 3530 S. Michigan Ave.
Woodlawn Cleaners and Dyers, Inc,
Oakley Pharmacy, 2160 E. 75th St.
Ajax Auto Co., 7800 Stony Island Ave.
Forjay's Camera Supplies, 2112 E. 71st St.
South Shore Ice Cream Parlor, 1805 E. 71st St.
Clemensen's Florist, 78th and Exchange
Popham's Grocery, 1858 E. 73 rd St.
Schneider & Sons Funeral Home, 2022-24-26 E. 75th St.
Downey Coal Co., 76th & Bennett
Warsaw Window and Glass Co., 7930 S. Chicago Ave.
Windsor Stationary Store, 2610 E. 75th St.
Strobel Jewelers, 1920 E. 71st St.
Stolarsky's Flowers, 7818 Stony Island Ave.
Sunshine Dairy Bar, Corner of 75th and Luella
Siegal Dodge Plymouth, 7616 Stony Island Ave.
Block Hardware and Appliances, 2500 E. 75th St.
General Music Shop, 2131 E. 71st St.
Bob McCann's Grill, 1901 E. 79th St.
Englewood Knitting Mills, 6643 S. Halsted
John Michael Florist, 7045 Stony Island Ave.
South Shore National Bank (One page ad), Jeffrey at 71st St.
Geo. Spies Class Rings, 4140 N. Kolmar

 

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 who 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 312-225-3591. This home number is a correction from last month. 

He will be glad to accept names of former alums not listed.  His e-mail is shellystrk@yahoo.com.  You can also contact Mr. Macklin, one of the four principals at SSHS at DLMacklin@cps.k12.il.us

 

Shelly sent me a list of the South Shore Tars Sports Hall of Fame from 1940-1970.  In later issues I will include other Hall of Famers who achieved notoriety in Medicine, Finance and other professions. How many do you remember? Thanks Shelly

FOOTBALL

Joe Hoffman – 1944, Bernie Citron – 1946, Tommy O’Connell – 1948,

Pete Bachorous – 1949, Dan Sabino – 1949, Rex Smith – 1949, Bill Smith – 1949

Bernie Shanker – 1952, Gene Natzke – 1952, Tom Cavanaugh – 1955,

Earl Hagberg – 1955

Mike McFarland - 1955

Beno McFarland – 1953

Burt Glazov – 1956

TRACK – Alvin Cohen – 1947

BOWLING – Ed Kaplan – 1953

BASEBALL – Fred Halpern - 1957

SWIMMING – Dave Becker – 1953, Jesse Iverson – 1955

BASKETBALL

Paul Schackenberg – 1944, Buddy Weinburgh – 1944, Dan Trahey – 1944,

Hank Stein- 1946 – Juniors, Jake Fendley – 1947, Norm Berglund – 1948

Bobby Joor – 1948, Wally “Rusty” Novak – 1949 – Juniors

Hank Lenard – 1949 – Juniors, Arnie Goldstein – 1949 – Juniors

Sy Rothbard – 1949, Lee O’Connell – 1951, Lou Sandefer – 1951

Jack Rosue – 1951, Ken Blizzard – 1951, Rusty Forrest – 1951 – Juniors

Sherwin Strauss – 1952 – Juniors, Larry Cohen – 1953, Tom Neary – 1953

Ed Bood – 1954, Bob Rubin – 1954, Bill Bennett – 1956, Joel Zemans – 1959

Rich Halpern – 1963, John Dunlop – 1963

David Weaver – 1958

Wally Lencki - 1952

Hall of Fame SSHS coaches – Remember any of these?

Tony Maffia – Basketball

Roger Inman – Basketball

Don Pittman – Basketball

Clarence Applegram – Football

Glenn Johnson – Track

Haywood Richmond – Track

Marv Levy – Football

 

Note from Caryn - Does any other school want to jump on this bandwagon?  I am sure Bowen, OLP, Aquinas, Hirsch, Hyde Park, Mendel, and the other public and parochial schools in our area have a similar brag list.  This is not just a South Shore High School newsletter it is for all schools that were around from 1940-1970 in South Shore.  So come on y’all.  Contact your old schools and send me their brag lists of famous and notable people.   

 

I enjoyed the April South Shore newsletter.  You asked if anyone remembered when the South Side Irish Parade went down 79th Street.  Since the parade passed less than two blocks from where I live, I know about the parade's web site.  I went to http://southsideirishparade.org/, selected History of the Parade, and found that it went down 79th Street prior to 1960.  By 1960, Mayor Daley had started having the parade downtown and that ended the 79th Street parade.  The web site makes no mention of Mayor Daley.  It says "The parade moved downtown in 1960."  So I guess there was never a situation where Daley started having his downtown parade and then the folks on the South Side stopped having their parade.  It was on the South Side and then, in 1960, it moved downtown. In 1979, a couple of neighborhood families started the South Side parade up again with just a few kids marching around the block.  The next year it moved to Western Avenue and the rest is history, as the saying goes.  The parade moved to Western Avenue in 1981, two years later, not the next year. We now have the South Side Irish Parade (which occurs the weekend prior to St. Patrick's Day) that rivals the downtown one (which occurs on St. Patrick's Day weekend).  The 1979 group that re-started the South Side Parade (the Wee Folks of Washtenaw) still marches in the parade. The name is "The Wee Folks of Washtenaw and Talman".  The parade now has over 15,000 marchers and more than 250,000 spectators.  If you want the specific years that the South Side Irish Parade marched down 79th Street, you might try sending a question to southsideirishparade@yahoo.com.  I don't know how often they check the parade email mailbox after St. Patrick's Day or if the organizers of the present day parade would know the answer to that. I never received a response from the Chicago Director of the Theatre Historical Society of America regarding when the Avalon Theater had goldfish in the lobby.  We know for sure, according to Barry Demovsky in the newsletter, they were there in the 1950s.  However, we don't know when the goldfish started or when they ended. I saw a comment from Rick Weinberg.  He was a class officer for my 1969 class and I email him every so often.  Keep up the good work with the newsletter and take care, Dan Nolan, South Shore 1969 d.p.nolan@att.net

 

I am enjoying all your hard work. Andrea Trock Eliscu, South Shore class of '62 was a finalist in the Orlando Business Journal's Woman Owned Business award category.  Eliscu accepted her award wearing Donald Pliner boots (also a South Shore alum).  mmiandrea@sprintmail.com

 

An old Horace Mann classmate sent me the April newsletter. I have ordered the book and look forward to reading it. I have been away so long (born 1954, my family left SS about 1968, such a shame; I left Chicago altogether for boarding school at that time); most of my memories have fallen by the wayside.  My name then was Shelley Winograd, we lived on Luella.  Our Horace Mann class had a reunion a few years ago; it was fabulous, they found almost everyone.  Interestingly, a friend around the corner from me here in Virginia also grew up in South Shore.  My oldest daughter now goes to U of C, one of these days I will take her on a tour of the old neighborhood. Ann Aoki aokis@cox.net

 

I live in Phoenix, AZ and just got back from a show in Chicago. While I was there I went back to the old neighborhood, to 85th & Euclid and even to Carl’s Hotdogs for a good old dog. (It was not the same as it was 37 years ago).Thanks for your newsletter.  By the way my cousin Stuart Berg went to South Shore around the same time I was at Bowen.  Barry Reifman (AKA Dr. Stink)  www.88stink.com

 

I went to Bryn Mawr through 6B, then Horace Mann through the eighth grade. I recall your beautiful singing of "The Lord's Prayer," (way before political correctness found its way into religious songs at school) requested by music teacher Willinore Potter at Mann.

I also remember Wee Folks.  I worked at Klein's, later Heller's Pharmacy on 79th & East End during high school. Thanks,    Jim Heyman, SSHS Jan.'58 HJKane@aol.com

 

Note from Caryn – I can’t believe Jim remembered this.  I recorded this song as well as the 23rd Psalm and garnered lots of singing gigs from it.  Thanks Jim

 

I just received your letter from Barbara Hacker (class of '62) Good job! I also learned that Mary Ann Johnson died. I have fond memories of her from both Bradwell and South Shore High. I still have many South Shore High connections. Shelly (Young) Zucker class of '62. ZWOCK77@aol.com

 

I remember your dad used to advertise in the Sunday bulletin at OLP. Yours & Vaughen’s on Randolph Street downtown were our favorite toy stores in the world -- Jim McCabe (76th & Cregier) OLP “61” jmccabe104@aol.com

 

My cousin emailed me a copy of the April 2007 South Shore News Spot. She thought I'd enjoy reading it and she was right. I was born and raised in South Shore. I lived at 76th St. and Yates and went to Bradwell and South Shore High for a short time before moving to Phoenix, AZ. I still keep in contact with a lot of my South Shore friends. We had a club called the SSA's (South Shore Adorables) at Bradwell which stayed together for 4 years, '53-'56. We've had two SSA reunions in the past couple of years, one in Phoenix and one in Chicago. I have wonderful memories of living on the South Side, walking to Rainbow Beach, taking to IC downtown, seeing movies at the Shore Theatre on 75th St, and, of course, White Castle on 79th and Essex. South Shore was a great place to grow up in the '40's and '50's.  Suzi (Feinberg) Scher    Suzi@ScherFamily.com

 

While I can't remember a thing about Algebra (during 1954-55), I never forgot the sign next to the clock above the door of Mr. Koistra's classroom:   "Time Passes But Will You?"  Wilbur Gill's (Class of 1947) words in the December 2006 SSHS newsletter triggered my memory of Mr. Koistra's sweet smile.  May his memory be eternal.  Diane (Karras) Matalas Class of 1958 dianematalas@wowway.com

 

What a wonderful monster you have created!  It is a real connection especially since we have lived in California since 1964!  Street names are mentioned that I barely remember.  Since I wrote for the Tide and The Shoreline--the gossip column, Porthole Peeks - the names are so familiar too at least those between 1950 and '54!  Some afterwards too since I ran Guy Manaster’s SSL campaign for the class of 1955. Keep up the good work. Thanks to your husband for the great proofing. I was also the proofer for The Shoreline! I still do a lot today. The wonderful Journalism Teacher, Mr. Carroll, inspired me for a lifetime. I went to the University of Missouri for Journalism--a top school for that. Leslea Wenk Miller lwm237@roadrunner.com

 

It seems that many of us grew up in South Shore folding boxes and stocking merchandise, some as early as ten years old. I had a lovely note from Larry Greatman, now living in California, who remembered doing stock work and being drafted into selling around Christmas and Fathers Day at Saper's Men's Shop for my father. I got my first social security number and "real" job next door to Sapers on 71sr St. at a little stationary store where I, too, would do some Xmas selling when I was about eleven. I mourn the loss of neighborhood retail shops that have spawned so many memories. Perhaps it is more exacerbated here in L.A., but I can't imagine a Newsletter in 2057 fondly recalling the good old days working the night shift at Target or Costco! Dorothy Saper (now Dorothy Sinclair)    Dodosinc@aol.com

 

My uncle and aunt, Harry and Ceda Thomas, owned a gift shop on the north side of 79th Street from about 1947 or 1948 until about 1954.   As I recall, it was between Bennett and Euclid Avenues, but it might have been between Constance and Bennett.  I cannot recall the actual name or address of the shop.  We always called it Ceda's shop, which was not its name.   My mother, Marjorie Thomas Payne, who died at 104 this past summer could not remember the name of the shop either.   Maybe some of your web readers can remember the name of the shop.  Sally Payne Coomes, South Shore, Jan. 55. scoom@hickorytech.net

 

My brother, Jeff Zolitor was correct about the year I graduated from Bowen, 1963.  However, in mentioning our cousins who attended SSHS, he forgot our cousin Jerry Zoloto who also attended.  Other cousins, Allan, Susanne and Herb Zoloto, graduated from Bowen.  Your News Letter is always nice to receive, and while I realize it is mostly directed to the graduates of South Shore, surely there must be some people from Bowen that may have things to add, or people they may want to look for.  Hey Bowenites, have we gotten so old that we can’t remember names or places?  Come on ladies and gents, let’s make a showing.  Bruce Zolitor  BZolito@aol.com

 

I am Sue Sondell Safir from the SSHS class of '63.  I lived in the Coles School district for grammar school.  I graduated from the U of I in '68, married and eventually moved to East Lansing, Michigan. I have been here since 1970.  Please add me to your e-mail list for any new copies of the newsletter.  Thanks for taking the time to do this.  I still wish that I had access to Cunis’ ice cream.  I have never eaten chocolate chip quite as yummy as theirs.    takko22003@yahoo.com

 

During World War II, there was so much patriotism and dedication to our troops.  I remember the Victory Garden on 79th between Saginaw and Colfax.  There was a dedication of the flag pole and garden and Kate Smith came for this dedication and sang her famous rendition of "God Bless America."  I was so excited to see such a famous person in our neighborhood.  I have an old record of hers with that song on it.  It still gives me a thrill and makes me realize just how blessed we are in this nation even though there is so much turmoil.  Marlene (Edlund) Van Tuyl vantuyl91@yahoo.com

 

Note from Caryn – The email below is from a woman that worked in Wee Folks and was beloved by my parents

 

I thought of you a lot this past weekend as Irv and I flew down to the Bay area to celebrate Passover with family. While sitting around the table playing catch up with my brother and sister, I related the story of how you and I reconnected and I was amazed to learn that my brother (who is five years younger than I) actually remembered the store, and you and your family. What a kick. At any rate, I just wanted to touch base again. Now that I am over the shock, I would love to read your book. What's the best way to obtain it?  Erlene Sklar Chernick   Erlchernic@aol.com

 

I am Jimmy Linn, Horace Mann '63 and SSHS '67.  Totally enjoying the newsletter and feeling the everlasting warmth of our south side roots.  I have forwarded the newsletters to quite a few South Shore alums that are grateful as well. In particular, Larry Ellison, CEO of Oracle and Ricky Rosenfield, CEO of California Pizza Kitchen both South Shore class of '62’ who absolutely remember their roots with extreme fondness are appreciative of all your work in keeping the memories alive. (They are stunned that Carl's hot dog stand still exists on 83rd street).  I am now a criminal court judge in Chicago and read the Pied Piper of South Shore with particular interest.  The prosecutor of your dad's murderer is still a practicing lawyer and friend of mine.  Thankfully the killer remains in prison to this day.  Thank you again for the great book and the newsletter.  Jim Linn judgelinn@yahoo.com

 

My sister, Jean Hollman told me about your website regarding South Shore in Chicago and your book which I am going to order. I grew up in Chicago lived at 7734 S. Phillips in South Shore went to South Shore High School graduated in 1952. I think the cover of your book shows The Avalon Theater which I went to many times. It was very ornate and beautiful. I also remember The Shore Theater at 75th near Essex. I have many happy memories of my childhood in Chicago's South Shore moved to Kissimmee Florida in 1991 where I am living now. I have a picture of the Shore Theater on my bedroom wall. sadly it was torn down many years ago for a hamburger joint which closed soon after it was open don't know what is there now. I came to Oak Lawn about 3 years ago to visit a friend and was told that South Shore is not safe and he would not take me into that area. Nice seeing your website sorry about what happened to your parents hope you are doing okay.  Fred Hollman GLOBALTREASURES2@aol.com

 

I have so much fun with your wonderful email- so nice to see it grow. From my birth [1950] to age 11, we lived above our store @1115 W. 79th. (Originally Chatham Furs. then Stone's Specialty Shop). In fact I shared a room w/ my older brother Jay [Bowen class of '64]. Our bedroom faced onto 79th. I have many fond memories of the South .Side Irish parade. We moved to 89th and Ridgeland in '61. I graduated from Bowen in '68.Caryn, Michael Stone hpfamstone@yahoo.com

NEWS/BOOKS/TV  RECOMMENDATIONS

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?

 

Suzie Orman is Bobbie Orman's sister.  Her parents owned Morrie's Deli in Hyde Park. Ilene Johnson   Ilenejohnson2@aol.com

 

Veronica Becker is one of the writers on the most successful TV sitcom, Ugly Betty.  Her parents went to South Shore High.  Leslea Miller lwm237@roadrunner.com

 

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!

 

Reading through the list of Reunions, I was wondering if there will be one for the SSHS class of 1960. I would love to be on the committee. Jackie Weinstein   Ritchie, Henderson, jake89052@cox.net

 

The 50th seems like a very important reunion. I would have graduated from Hyde Park High in 1959 had we not moved away. I'm wondering if you have considered doing something jointly with the Hyde Park High class of 1959.  If the reunions were planned to be at the same time, there could be a joint event.  To me, the two neighborhoods were sort of one. Some of my grade school friends moved to south shore, and I think there were many levels of overlap. Maybe Hyde Park High is also setting up a steering committee for the 50th.   Judy Thornber jpthornber@sbcglobal.net

 

New entry - SSHS 1949-1950 - The South Shore classes of 1949 and 1950 are planning a joint 57/58 year reunion as a follow-up to a very successful venture held in Chicago three years ago. It will be held at the Sheraton Gateway Suites/O'Hare Sept. 8th, 2007.  For registration information:  Reunions Unlimited 6851 Holly Circle, Suite 100, Centennial, Co., 80112 (303)868 7513   reunioninfo@weplanreunions.com

            

They had a Hawaiian Luau in 2004 and this year have decided on a "Blast to the Past, A Return to the 40s and 50s!"  With the response of the variety of Hawaiian apparel at the last event, we're looking forward to the rolled up jeans, full skirts, bobby sox, sweaters with pearls or what have you, anything that reminds us of the "good old days"! And for those, not so inclined, party casual is always acceptable. Ann Lee of the 1950 class will be arranging for a tour down to the Southside to the High School area the following day, Sept. 9th...They are making a very diligent effort to locate alums. They encourage everyone to come and get in touch with information about themselves, as well as how to contact anyone else in the classes.  Sally Little Sund is the chairperson for the '50 class and can be reached at:  1778 Vancouver St., Lakewood, Co. 80228 (303) 985 3306   slittlesund@aol.com  and Jean Thomson Burnett, chair of the '49 class can be contacted at:  436 E. Badillo St., Covina, Ca. 91723   (626) 966 8198  mzrita@earthlink.net  For information on the South Shore neighborhood tour, Ann Lee can be reached at (773) 753 4027 or by e-mail at annmarcialee@aol.com

 

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.  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 makes 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

                                              

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  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 40th 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 40th 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   

 

Camp Martin Johnson - CMJ Reunion - 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


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

 

Hyde Park High School - 50th Reunion - Ann Schlensky (in Chicago) is organizing a committee for the 50th 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

 

OLP 1957 Reunion – I heard from Marcelle Kirk Lynott that an OLP reunion was being planned. Our Lady of Peace 50th reunion is the weekend of Sept 28th – 30th in Chicago. The headquarters will be at the Comfort Inn at 15 E Ohio. We are still missing a few people. There will be parties all weekend so we really do not want anyone to miss out. Sat evening will be a combined dinner with OLP, St Brides and St Phillip Neri.  If you know an OLP class of 57 person please contact me. Anyone interested in attending should contact Marcella Kirk Lynott 6510 W Roundup Rd McHenry, IL 60050 or call at 815-344-3330, or email me at mlynott6510@yahoo.com.

 

South Shore High School - Class of 1957 -.Doug Malewicki sent me information for the SSHS 50th 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.

 

Would you include the announcement that the Class of January, 1958 of South Shore High School will be having a pre-reunion in preparation for the 50th. It will take place on Saturday, June 30, 2007 @ 4PM in downtown Chicago.  For more details send an e-mail to Oakey Dowling at roaklaw@roaklaw.com

 

South Shore High School – Class of June 1958 –Phyllis (Kramer) Witt, class of June 1958 and Arlene Freya Blitstein 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 50th 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

 

SOUTH SHORE HIGH SCHOOL – Class of June ’58 and Jan  ’59- Form below

The reunion will be Saturday night June 21, 2008 at Maggiano’s Rsetaurant in Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie, Illinois  – In addition there will be a bus trip (on Saturday morning) to South Shore High School with a program and open house.  We might also be planning a get-together on Friday night and perhaps a Sunday brunch.

Check activities you would LOVE to come to.

# Attending ______

Reunion on Saturday night                                                         YES _____     NO _____

Bus ride to see SSHS on Saturday morning                               YES _____     NO _____

Friday night get together            `                                               YES _____     NO _____

Sunday morning brunch                                                             YES _____      NO

NAME__________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS______________________________________________________________

E-MAIL ADDRESS ______________________________________________________

PHONE NUMBER _______________________________________________________

Please reply ASAP to email FREYAB@AOL.COM or return the form by mail to Freya Maslov. 5819 W. Keeney, Morton Grove, Illinois 60053 Or call (847) 965-8277.

Can’t wait to see you and catch up on old times at South Shore!

Reunion committee:

(JUNE ’58)                                                                                  (JANUARY ’59)________

ADRIENNE BEHRSTOCK                PHYLLIS KRAMER          PAULA BLUM

FREYA BLITSTEIN                           GERRIE MALKIN             ROBERTA WILENSKY

NAOMI DWORTZ                             LENNY MALKIN                 

ARLENE EINBINDER                       BOB MARKOWITZ                          

KAY GOLDSMITH                            BIRDIE MILLER

JUDY KLEPPINGER                          JUDY PAUL              

 

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 - My daughter Kim is selling her Bartlett, Illinois house.  The reduced asking price for the house is $372,900. http://www.realtor.com/Prop/1078341009 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 

 

With sadness I report that my brother, Daniel Payne, South Shore, June'51 and Bradwell, June '47, died June 30, 2006 of a heart attack a few weeks after surgery for throat cancer.   Dan had retired from a career in education.  He was an auditor for school finance in the Chicago area, had been Supt. of Schools in Mokena, IL.  He had earlier been a speech and theater teacher at Wheaton High School where his most noted student was John Belushi.   The first chapter of John Woodward's book about John, Wired, is about Dan's influence on Belushi's career.  Dan was an Equity actor having performed in various Chicago area theaters.  He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Juanita of Bolingbrook; a daughter, Tracy Gamble of Franklin, Indiana; and a son Daniel of Kitchener, Ontario.   He was preceded in death by a son Jason.   Sally Payne Coomes, South Shore, Jan. '55 & Horace Mann, Jan. '51. scoom@hickorytech.net

 

Unfortunately, in the last couple of weeks, my class has lost two people.  Gilda Freiman Deutsch and Judi Wilinsky Cohen have passed away.  This is just hitting too close to home.  Karen Bezman   SSHS 1962 bezman@stsconsultants.com

 

MY SPEAKING DATES IN 2007! 

So far my speaking dates booked for this year include the Addison Library, Roosevelt University, Oakton Community College, and other private groups.  Visit my website Calendar of Events for more detailed information on my upcoming events that are open to the public. www.cmapublishing.net – I am now booking talks and book signings into 2007-2008 at 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.

 

Wednesday June 6, 10:00 a.m.

Institute for Continued Learning, Roosevelt University, Schaumburg, Ill

Chicago in the 1950’s and’60:  Memories of the Neighborhoods

 

Caryn’s story will take listeners back to a simpler time when neighborhoods served as extended families. The presentation is an exciting ride recalling the ups and downs of the urban landscape throughout the 50s and 60s. She will discuss the impact of national events like the Chicago Democratic Convention, the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and President John Kennedy as well as local remembrances of the Big Flood (1954) and the Big Snow (1967). Her presentation will resonate in the hearts of native Chicagoans and non-Chicagoans alike. Caryn’s point of view is that of the daughter of two immigrants who became small neighborhood retailers.  After 25 successful years in business, her father was murdered in his store by a street gang member. She carried on her parents’ American dream by retelling her family’s story in her award winning book, The Pied Piper of South Shore, Toys and Tragedy in Chicago.   The event is open to the public for a $5 fee.  For information on ICL membership or to register contact 847-619-7288, email icl@roosevelt.edu or visit their website at www.roosevelt.edu

 

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

 

Note from Caryn - This was a note after my talk on “Publishing Your Own Family Story”.

 

Caryn: Just a short note to tell you how much I enjoyed your presentation to the Inverness Women’s Club.  Everyone was enthralled with your story.  And as you said, “everyone has a story to tell.”  How true this is.  I have just read your newsletter and see that so many people are getting “a kick” out of finding lost souls over the years.  Since I am not a South Sider, I do not have the feelings that most of your readers do.  You are really doing a tremendous job with your newsletter.  Keep up the good work!  I am looking forward to reading your book and will be sure to put the special signed one in our book basket for our fashion show on April 13, 2007.  Jane Cazel

 

This issue of the newsletter was the very best. In fact, they just get better with each one. Thank you so very much for extending the enormous energy I know it takes to do this.  Dianne Berger (La Mesa, CA) dtobyb@sbcglobal.net

 

Caryn, I applaud you for a job exceptionally well done. You are proving to be an important linking pin to our South Shore past. I have been in contact with a handful of SSHS grads, class of 1948. Sad news is the fact that we have lost so many classmates. Daniel Yovich   danyovich@sbcglobal.net

 

I just finished reading your book at lunch today.  It really brought back so many memories of the place and time.  Although I don’t personally remember Wee Folks (we lived north of 71st St.), much of what I read brought back fond memories.  It’s amazing how connected we all were – grandparents from Russia, moving from Hyde Park, the grammar schools (of course I think they are called elementary schools now), one car families, being able to do all our shopping on one street (except for the trips downtown to Marshall Field’s and Carson Pirie Scott). I went to Hyde Park HS and didn’t notice the same rapid change that you did, especially since I wasn’t around much after high school graduation in 1963.  But, I do remember the early days of the Blackstone Rangers. I am going to have my son Spencer read the book.  It is much more descriptive of living that time than I could ever relate, and I want him to know more about my youthful background.  He was a history major, and I think he’ll find it particularly interesting because he is a prosecutor in Ft. Lauderdale. One of your references is by Timuel Black, one of our most revered history teachers at Hyde Park.  He has attended both reunions of my class. I am going to refer to your book on my website and put in your contact information.  Thanks for sharing your memories, as hard as it might have been. Sincerely,

Bill Multack bmultack@bellsouth.net

 

This note came from my website RSVP area at www.chicagospiedpiper.com 

“I am a comic book artist/music composer. I wanted to say hello and that i still cherish my Pied Piper book.”

 

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 the Harold Washington Library where all old Yellow Pages are on microfiche in 2 point type to write the addendum on stores on 79th.   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 my husband Bill, a non-South Shoreite.  He diligently proof reads this newsletter every month.  He has heard ALL my 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

 

NO SPAMMING OR LIST SHARING PERIOD! We will not make available to any third party our subscription list. All contents Copyright © 2007 CMA Marketing Group, Inc.

 

If you no longer wish to receive emails, please unsubscribe by sending an email to unsubscribe@chicagospiedpiper.com

 

********************************************

Caryn Lazar Amster, (The Pied Piper's

Daughter) is the award winning author of the

debut book The Pied Piper of South Shore,

Toys and Tragedy in Chicago.  This true

family true crime social history is set in

Chicago's South Shore in the 1950's and '60s. It

won the USA Book News "Best of 2004" in the

True Crime category.  It garnered an

all "5" rating in 2004 from Writer's Digest

International Self Publishers Contest in the Non-

Fiction category and Honorable Mention in the

Family Stories category from the same

magazine in 2005. 

For more information on the book, posters and fine art prints of the  cover

visit http://www.chicagospiedpiper.com. 

 

CMA Publishing is a divison of CMA Marketing

Group, Inc.

 

To order books, posters and prints write P.O. Box 366,  Medinah, Ill 60157-0366

or call 1-866-50-PIPER (74737)  toll free

 

Caryn Amster is a Chicago area marketing

specialist, President of CMA Marketing Group,

Inc. and a speaker and trainer.

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