Chillicothe-Manor

A Poem for Jo

2011-05-08T07:48:00.001-07:00

A Poem for Jo
by Starla Stimmer

The memories of past are vague.
The hurts gone and somewhat forgiven.
Now remembered, a scorched earth where you tread.
One who had flown too near the sun.
A crooked smile.
A pretty face.
God may give you peace
That was never given here,
And rest thee in arms of angels,
Their dreams now mixed with yours.

Your youth and pain
Together in one life
Were bought for no money down,
Payments made by living.
Girls remembered the pain,
Of cruelties hidden deep.
Buried within the walls.
Forgotten bruises.
Nothing living to dull the memories,
But you never cared for the future.

Living in the moment.
Thumping it down.
Never gave you the reprieve you deserved.
But why should I care? We were never friends.
As cruel as they were to you,
You were to me.
Am I glad you are dead?
Perhaps, but I'll never tell.
I'll never tell.

2011-05-02T15:13:00.000-07:00

It may be of interest to the old gang to know Danny Whitaker was shot in the stomach, last night by Rodney Vest. He was life-flighted to a West Virginia hospital. I don't know his condition or what led to the shooting.
Back in the 70's, I don't think he had a single enemy. He got alone with everyone and was always there to lend a hand. He reminded everyone of Clint Eastwood, fighting for right, truth, and justice. Danny, around age 14, started working for my dad. I haven't seen Danny in quite some time, but I remember my dad saying what good a worker Danny was.

To Linda, Judy, and Marty

2011-03-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

To my old friend, you know who you are...
Apologies
By Starla Stimmer

Memories of you swirling round my head.
Forgot today that you were dead.
Three times you tried and failed to die.
I didn't know how much you cried.

You were six and I was ten.
First day we met, way back then.
Friends through life and all those years
I never knew of your falling tears.

I apologize.
I didn't know
You needed to escape
A dark evil place.

Shoulda been there.
Shoulda known.
Shoulda saved you.
"But I was alone."
I swear
I didn't know.

Selfish inside and too blind to see
A little girl with bleeding knees.
Too wrapped in my head
To care for your dread.

When she put chains
Round the refrigerator door,
Was that the first day
She called you whore?

How could I not know you lived in fear
Of her daily affair with beer?
How did you survive?
You were only fourteen.
Wild child, living a nightmare dream.

Shoulda been there.
Shoulda known.
Shoulda saved you.
"But I was alone."
I swear
I didn't know.

You found a new family.
You found "Him".
You found the one.
Salvation born of love.

Thought you were warm.
Thought you were safe.
In his arms,
You found a new grace.

He had a family.
They'd be yours too.
Now you're safe, now you belong.
Now you have time to sing lovely songs.

The music rang out, as he sang to you.

There she is, sweet LindyLu.
Young, young girls looking for love.
Sunshine… light... little darling, it's me.
Sunshine... light... here I come.

It's all right, hold on tight.
You don't need a mama.
You don't need a pa.
You don't need anyone else at all.

Don't need friends.
Don't need to go.
Stay here with me.
Till I'm all you know.

A few months of love, a few months of life.
So short a time without the strife.
Black-eye fringes, rearrange
As love begins its’ solemn changes.

Make-believe dreams not coming true.
Only shades of black, green, and blue.
Bruised and pained, your heart is sore.
But it's worse now than before.

The love and warmth of family
His mother promised happily.
Her sweet red lips were filled with lies
Because she stood by while you cried.

There you are with no place to hide.
A child, of your own, growing deep inside.
Nothing new under the sun.
Seems a new cycle has begun.

Does she live in fear?
Of your daily love affair with beer.
How will she survive? She’s only fourteen.
Wild child, living a nightmare dream.

Shoulda been there.
Shoulda known.
Shoulda saved you.
"But I was alone."
I swear I didn't know.

His Father's Death: The Cingarette

2011-03-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

His Father’s Death
The Cigarette

By Starla Stimmer

A goddess came cloaked in white,
Illuminated darkness, a spectacular light.
A golden crown blazed on golden hair.
A thousand wisp smoked in the air.
Glory be, she was to behold.
Her body slid through mortal souls.

Promised joy and comfort embraced.
Of unfulfilled truths, he found no trace.
Like a god of old, she molded each man.
Servitude was her only plan.
Low-whispered voice subdued the dreams.
She pleaded, only worship it seemed.

She alone relieved his stress.
Her body was his only request.
She promised to stay and calm his strife
If only worship was his life.
So his father, a trusting youth,
Found in her courtship calming proof.

A child believes in promises
Coming from golden goddesses.
And truth was there in her words
For from his side she never stirred.
A calming shoulder, a ready ear,
A lover eager to be near.

No lock, nor chain could keep her out.
No door, no wall, was built about.
Where he went, she followed too,
Completely unruffled and unmoved.
To her words she stayed true,
Swirling midst clouds of blue.

“Leave me go! Just let me be!”
He would beg on bended knees.
But how could she desert him now
When she’d taken a solemn vow?

Amidst the passing of clanging chimes
Her beauty kept him hidden from time.
He stayed forever in her arms,
Cloaked in white without alarm.
And there he died in her tight embrace,
Her arms around his chest and face.

So early one October morn
There he was with her, alone.
It was said he reached into the air,
Grasping for her golden hair.
But she was busy near his chest
Taking away his last breath.

Another passing.

2009-12-14T06:53:00.000-08:00

Belinda Terry, first one on the left.

They say that time muddies your memories with dreams and dreams diminish over time. I believe this is true in some capacity for everything, but I will always remember little Belinda Terry.

I didn't have the fortune to know her as an adult, but as a child I remember kindness, innocents, and a youthful fire for life.

A friend informed me of her passing.

You were much loved and will be missed dearly. Rest in peace little one.

The Chillicothe Manor in the 1970's

2009-10-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

Does anyone remember their bike? The banana seat was the best. I think this was Marty's, don't know how or why I have a photo of it. I had a pink girl's bike.

1971 - Graduation

2009-10-19T16:13:00.000-07:00

My graduation in 1971, before I went insane and thought I knew everything.

Other people I remember.

2009-10-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

Rick P.

Terry Waters

Linda Oldrieve

Chris Roof

Bobby K.

Here They ARE! Bet they hate me now.

2009-10-17T15:55:00.000-07:00

Pat Hunt

Vicki S.

Marilyn D.

Marty Higgins

Karen C.

Wendell Adkins

Brenna A.

All of the above amazing individuals were a part of what the 70's were about. With the utmost of excellence and youthful exuberance, they embodied the joys of being a teenager.

2009-09-10T06:24:00.000-07:00

Smith Junior High School - circa 1960's 1970's

Class of 71

2009-09-05T17:05:00.000-07:00

Top Selling Albums

All Things Must Pass - George Harrison
Chicago III - Chicago
Close To You - Carpenters
Every Picture Tells a Story - Rod Stewart
Greatest Hits - Sly & The Family Stone
Jesus Christ Superstar - Soundtrack
Love Story - Soundtrack
Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon - James Taylor
The Partridge Family Album - The Partridge Family
Pearl - Janis Joplin *
Shaft - Soundtrack *
Sticky Fingers - The Rolling Stones
Sweet Baby James - James Taylor
Tapestry - Carole King
Tea for the Tillerman - Cat Stevens

Class of 71

2009-09-05T13:59:00.000-07:00

Top 40 71 "Joy To The World" - Three Dog Night (First chart appearance
"It's Too Late" - Carole King
"How Do You Mend A Broken Heart" - Bee Gees
"Indian Reservation" - The Raiders
"One Bad Apple" - The Osmonds
"Go Away Little Girl" - Donny Osmond
"Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)" - The Temptations
"Take Me Home, Country Roads" - John Denver with Fat City
"Maggie May" - Rod Stewart
"Knock Three Times" - Dawn
"Want Ads" - The Honey Cone
"Treat Her Like A Lady" - Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose
"She's A Lady" - Tom Jones
"Smiling Faces Sometimes" - The Undisputed Truth
"Me And Bobby McGee" - Janis Joplin
"The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" - Joan Baez
"Signs" - Five Man Electrical Band
"What's Going On" - Marvin Gaye
"You've Got A Friend" - James Taylor
"Tired Of Being Alone" - Al Green
"Ain't No Sunshine" - Bill Withers
"Rose Garden" - Lynn Anderson
"Never Can Say Goodbye" - The Jackson 5
"Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey" - Paul & Linda McCartney
"Draggin' The Line" - Tommy James
"Put Your Hand In The Hand" - Ocean
"Bridge Over Troubled Water" - Aretha Franklin
"Doesn't Somebody Want To Be Wanted" - The Partridge Family
"Temptation Eyes" - The Grass Roots
"Don't Pull Your Love" - Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds
"Mr. Big Stuff" - Jean Knight
"Do You Know What I Mean?" - Lee Michaels
"It Don't Come Easy" - Ringo Starr
"Superstar" - Carpenters
"Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)" - Marvin Gaye
"I've Found Someone Of My Own" - The Free Movement
"Superstar" - Murray Head
"Amos Moses" - Jerry Reed
"For All We Know" - Carpenters "Rainy Days And Mondays" - Carpenters

What did you watch?

2009-09-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

The Top 20 Television Shows of 1971:
Television Shows we enjoyed in 1971
Remember?
All in the Family - Loved it
Flip Wilson - Don't remember it
Marcus Welby - Barely remember it
Gunsmoke - My parents loved it
Sanford and Son - Didn't think it was all that funny, must have been to young
Mannix - Ok
Funny Face - Don't remember it.
Adam 12 - Whole family loved it
Mary Tyler Moore Show - Remember it
Here's Lucy - Whole family watched it
Hawaii Five-0 - Whole family watched it
Medical Center - Don't remember it
Ironside - Wasn't that interested, but do remember it
The Partridge Family - HAD TO BE THERE!
The F.B.I. - Ok, but no bid deal
The New Dick Van Dyke Show - Funny
The Wonderful World of Disney - Better when I was younger
Bonanza - Everyone watched it in our family

September 29, 2008 the funeral

2008-09-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

The wait is over............................born November 11th, 1915

my father died on a Friday night - September 26,2008

I will love him.............................

Maurice "Turk" Stone

He never failed to rescue me.

Maurice K. “Turk” Stone, 92, of Chillicothe, died 11:02 p.m. Friday, September 26, 2008, in Pike Community Hospital following a brief illness. Funeral services will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 30, 2008, in the Ware Funeral Home with Rev. Bruce Viar officiating. At his request cremation will follow the service. Friends may call at Wares from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday. Maurice was born November 11, 1915, in Vanceburg, KY, to Fielden J. and Mary Anna Kendall Stone. On August 9, 1952, he married the former Helen L. Cydrus, who died October 3, 1994. Surviving are children, son and daughter-in-law, Dick and Laura Stone, of Akron, OH, daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and John Demel, of Columbus and her son, Bradford (Lauren) Hunter, of Dublin, OH and their daughter, Cora Hunter, daughter, Starla Stone, of Chillicothe, and daughter and son-in-law, Anna and Mike L., of Chillicothe; his beloved grandson, L. K. L.; brothers-in-law, Hank (Marilyn) Cydrus and Albert “Sam” Cydrus, both of Chillicothe; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Fielden J. Stone; mother, Anna M. Kille; brothers, R. Edwin and John M. Diggs; a sister, Annalee Kille; and a granddaughter, Angel Star. Maurice was a member of the High Street C.C.C.U. He and his late wife were owners and operators of the former, Schoolhouse Truck Stop, A & A Truck Stop and the Dairy Freeze and he was also a farmer.He lived a fullfilled life with many adventures. Dad had a recent conversation with Rev. Viar, that reassures us he is experiencing a homecoming in heaven.

Linda Kitchen Chillicothe, Ohio October 1, 2008 5:36 AM
Anna and Family, God Bless you and your family during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Teri L. Digges Sapulpa, Oklahoma September 30, 2008 5:21 PM
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your father.I have very fond memories of him. He was my favorite uncle on my father's side. I know you will miss him. Sincerely, Teri L. Digges

Becky Smallridge Chillicothe, Ohio September 30, 2008 1:43 PM
Anna and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in God and your friends.

John and Suzanne Huffman Peebles, Ohio September 30, 2008 1:07 PM
So sorry to hear about your dad. If you need anything, let me know. We are praying for you.

Sharon (Digges) Rose Fall City, Washington September 30, 2008 12:45 PM
So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you.

Rachel and David Sims Peebles, Ohio September 30, 2008 11:16 AM
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this trying time!

Tom & Mary Curtis Frankfort September 30, 2008 11:11 AM
Our thougths and prayers our with your family. Work for Turk at the truck stop in Henderson WV, then at the one here. He was a very nice man.

Kelly Davis Walker Waverly,Ohio September 30, 2008 10:55 AM
Anna,Mike,Logan,and Family, We are very sorry for your loss. You will be in our prayers. Jim and Shelby Davis Kelly and katie Walker

Jay & Tonya Neff Richmond Dale, Ohio September 30, 2008 9:43 AM
Mike, Anna, and Logan, You know we love you and are here to help you in any way we can! We are praying for God's comfort to surround you during this difficult time.

Billy and Betty Dennis Frankfort , Ohio September 30, 2008 5:02 AM
My Thoughts and Prayers are with you ! If you need anything im just a call away...Love, Betty and Billy

cathy Neff-Henderson Springfeild ,Ohio September 29, 2008 9:48 PM
I have known Mr and Mrs Stone for along time . I can always remember him having a smile on his face . I am sorry for the stone family loss just remember they are back to gether again .I can remember them from the school house . when i was alittle girl . Anna I am sorry for your loss . may god be with you all . and help you get thur these next couple of days.

Jennifer Dyke Chillicothe, Ohio September 29, 2008 8:00 PM
I met Turk at Barb's Restaurant in Piketon. I'd always take my Grandpa there. He is 91. He was a sweet & funny man! I loved seeing him come in. He always brought a smile to my face! He'll be missed. My thoughts are with you and your family!

kathy pettiford chillicothe September 29, 2008 7:04 PM
kathy earley pettiford chillicothe September 29, 2008 6:59 PM
Just wanted to let all the family know Turk was a super guy and good to work for well Helen and him both...Sorry to hear about the lost...Prayer`s will be with all of you... love & prayer`s kathy earley pettiford

Jeff Digges Phoenix, AZ September 29, 2008 5:14 PM

Patty Brown Harkins September 29, 2008 4:56 PM
Turk was a good friend of my parents,. Dale and Annabel Brown. You have my deepest sympathy and will be in my prayers. Patty Brown Harkins

Jennifer L Digges-Montana Allen, Texas September 29, 2008 3:00 PM
So sorry to hear about the passing of your father. My dad, (Maurice's brother John ), spoke of him often and repeatedly asked for him when he was struggling with his illness. Brothers always stick together, and since my father also accepted Christ before he passed away, I am sure they are having a grand time together in heaven.

Carol (McClaskey) Townsend Bainbridge, Ohio September 29, 2008 2:10 PM
My family lived up the street from the Dairy Freeze while I was growing up. Turk was indeed a super nice man. I am very sorry for your lost.

Becky Dixon Richmond Dale September 29, 2008 12:00 PM
Anna and family, I am so sorry to hear of your father's passing. May God give you comfort today and in the days ahead. Becky and Don Dixon

Guy and Sue McCorkle Chillicothe September 29, 2008 10:40 AM
Our deepest sympathies to Turk's Family. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you all. Guy and Sue

Tammy Wills & Family Chillicothe September 29, 2008 10:30 AM
From our family to yours..We are sorry to hear about your loss..Our prayers go out to all ouf you. Turk so fondly of all of you. HE was blessed to have you all.My memeries of Turk will be with Logan as baby when i cared for Helen and Logan.. And of course the dogs. Also, remember the Dairy Freeze when me and grandma woould go there. He also came into the candle shop and slways paid me complemet.. We was a great friend... The Wills Family

Vickie (Burnett) Hummel Savannah GA September 29, 2008 9:38 AM
To the children of Helen and Turk: I was friends with both your parents for many years when I attended High St. CCCU. Your mother mentored me as a young christian and I still think of her so often. Please know that my prayers are with you in your lose but I rejoiced when I read that your father had the assurance of heaven and I know it must bring you great comfort to know that your parents are united once again.

peggyhixon chillicothe ohio September 29, 2008 8:56 AM
PEGGY HIXON FRANCIS ELLIOT
peggy hixon chillicothe ohio September 29, 2008 8:51 AM

DEBBY ONEY chillicothe ohio September 28, 2008 9:02 PM
TO TURK'S FAMILY I'M SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS I WAS HIS WAITRESS AT PONDEROSA. HE WOULD TELL PEOPLE I WAS HIS WIFE.I'LL MISS HIM I HAVEN'T SEEN HIM SINCE THE DAY HE WASN'T FEELING GOOD AND WAS ASLEEP IN HIS CAR.YOU ARE RIGHT HE HAD A WONDERFUL LIFE.MAY HE REST IN PEACE.

Robyn Hatfield Chillicothe September 28, 2008 10:54 AM
Mrs.Lyon and family, So sorry to hear of your fathers passing. My thoughts are with you .

September 25, 2008

2008-09-29T11:23:00.001-07:00

Waiting...........................

September 24, 2008

2008-09-29T11:22:00.004-07:00

Waiting....................

September 23, 2008

2008-09-29T11:22:00.003-07:00

Waiting.....................

September 22, 2008

2008-09-29T11:22:00.001-07:00

Waiting.................

September 21, 2008

2008-09-29T11:21:00.006-07:00

Waiting....................

September 20, 2008

2008-09-29T11:21:00.005-07:00

Waiting........................

September 19, 2008

2008-09-29T11:21:00.003-07:00

Waiting.........................

September 18, 2008

2008-09-29T11:21:00.001-07:00

Waiting..........................

September 17, 2008

2008-09-29T11:20:00.006-07:00

Waiting.........................

September 16, 2008

2008-09-29T11:20:00.003-07:00

Waiting......................

September 15, 2008

2008-09-29T11:19:00.006-07:00

Waiting...........................

September 14, 2008

2008-09-29T11:19:00.005-07:00

Waiting.......................................

September 13, 2008

2008-09-29T11:19:00.003-07:00

Waiting.................................

September 12, 2008

2008-09-29T11:19:00.001-07:00

Waiting.............................

September 11, 2008

2008-09-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

Waiting................

A Poem for Jo

2008-09-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

A Poem for Jo.

by Starla Stimmer

The memories of past are vague.
The hurts gone and somewhat forgiven.
Now remembered a scorched earth where you tread.
One who had flown to near the sun.
A crooked smile.
A pretty face.
God may give you peace
That was never given here,
And rest thee in arms of angels
Their dreams now mixed with yours.

Your youth and pain
Together in one life
Was bought for no money down.
Payments made by living.
Girls remembered the pain.
Of cruelties hidden deep.
Buried within the walls.
Forgotten bruises.
Nothing living to dull the memories,
But you never cared for the future.

Living in the moment.
Thumping it down.
Never gave you the reprieve you deserved.
But why should I care? We were never friends.
As cruel as they were to you,
You were to me.
Am I glad you are dead?
Perhaps, but I’ll never tell.
I’ll never tell.
I’ll never tell.

Going Back Jack!

2008-03-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

Purchased a Delta Oldsmobile 88 Royale the other day. Took a ride through the Manor. Felt like 20 something again.

My Ole Friend

2008-02-23T15:59:00.000-08:00

I found out today that Vicky Stepp passed away. She was my friend and I will miss her.

I met Vicky when I was in college down in Portsmouth, Ohio. She seemed to always be happy. She was the kind of person you could always take your problems to, she was a very good listener, you felt like she really understood and really cared.

It broke my heart to hear of her passing.

We didn't talk alot these days, each with our own busy lives. We only spoke every year or so. Long phone conversations about our lives past. So when I called today, it was with great sadness I learned she had passed away over a year ago, in January of 2007, is as close as I can figure it.

I will greatly miss talking to her and hearing her voice on the other end of the line.

Goodby my old friend, I will miss you greatly. I will write more about you when I can stop the tears from falling.

Neil - Brother and Friend

2007-03-06T13:25:00.000-08:00

After so many years lost, he found his way home again.

"Sailing homeward, it's time to go home,
Over the ocean of life we must roam.
And when you get there, say hello for me,
For I've a long, long way to go.
There may be stormy days, there will be fires
There will be valleys with mountains to climb.
And when you get there, say hello for me,
For I've a long, long way to go."

Brother, I am glad you are finally home. I missed you. Not one day in the last 30 some years have gone by without me thinking of you............................Fairwell, my old friend.

2007-03-06T11:25:00.000-08:00

The information came by way of a phone conversation...not mine, but a good friends.

With great sorrow that I inform you of the passing of Linda Oldrieve. A sudden heart attack last December.

I want to relay a few of my memories about Linda here.

I met Linda at the Dairy Freeze in Chillicothe, Ohio around 1971. I believe she was around 14 at the time. We became instant fast friends. We spent days, that summer, swimming at the Mead pool or Ater's Lake and nights hanging out on her front porch.

Lucky for us, her mother rented a house on the main street middle of June. That fall, Linda resumed her junior high school classes at Mount Logan School.

The next summer, she met Neil - who I later learned to call "brother", but that is another story entirely.

She was to eventually drop out of school and finish her education with a GED.

She was funny, kind, helpful and loving - full of life. And a very cute girl, all the boys liked her.

She was, in fact the first one to educate me with the age old knowledge of make-up. I don't know if her make-up knowledge was on the level of an advanced expert, but I remember large amounts of deep blue eye shadow being her speciality. We wore it lots...and lots...and lots.

That was the summer, I was head over heels in puppy love with Bobby Taylor. Sandy blond hair, a coal black 67 Mustang and a little on the wild side. First crush. Linda said she knew this hot guy................and then.....there he was.

I remember one Saturday in particular, seems like it was July. There was no city pool at the time, in it's place the traveling carnivals set up, two or three times a year. Talk about excitement! They set up in the center of a grassy clearing surrounded by trees. It was high fashion to be seen cruising the scene in a hot car. If I close my eyes and concentrate real hard, I can smell the cotton candy and hear the evening breeze rustling in the leaves overhead. Linda and I got there early, about noon. We landed a choice parking spot and sat on the hood of the car in order to see and be seen by all. We had our music blaring from the car's radio. Believe me, radios didn't blare as much then as sound systems do today. Actually, we didn't even have an Eight Track player then. When I think back, we might have been the only ones who heard the noise at all..... Still we had a marvelous time. It wasn't long before our car was the center of everything. Linda was always so much fun.

Ah, the summer of innocence.

Linda was one of my best friends in 1971. Now she is gone. Sad to say, I didn't get to say goodbye. I will miss you, my ole friend...................

Chris Shanks

2007-02-24T16:06:00.000-08:00

Hey, Chris remember this day. Easter Sunday, about 1983. You came to my house after church. Mica was just a baby.

Chris, kid...you were a knock out! Bethany ain't never gonna have what you had.

Chris Roof and Toni Terry

2007-02-24T15:56:00.000-08:00

Look at them....what year was this? 1981? 1982? I remember Vicky lived in the apartment down the street from the house she purchased. It was an upstairs apartment. She was going out with Steve. Gosh, what year was that? I wasn't with Ray yet, so it had to be before 1984. It must have been after 1980, because I think I was out of college.

See how young Chris was. Remember Toni? She was the coolest mom ever. I remember she came to my house one time, when I lived on 5th and Mulberry and she cleaned my house....rearranged my kitchen. It was better then I could ever do it. Gosh, she was something special....and a singing voice to die for. I remember when I first met her, she was singing in a band.

Sure was a fine time.

She her really nice big feathers in the corner? I found these same ones at Hobby Lobby recently and put a big container of these right in my living room.

I miss those days.

To my old friend, you know who you are.....

2007-02-13T13:41:00.000-08:00

Memories of you swirling in my head.
Forgot today that you were dead.
Three times you tried and failed to die.
I didn't know how much you cried.

Shoulda been there.
Shoulda known.
Shoulda saved you.
But I was alone.
I swear, I didn't know.

You were 6 and I was 10
First day we met, way back then.
Friends through life and all those years
I never knew of your falling tears.

Shoulda been there.
Should known.
Shoulda saved you.
But I was alone.
I swear, I didn't know.

My ole friend, the day you told me your hidden secret, I didn't care. It had no effect on me. I didn't know how it burdened you. The 70's were not a forgiving time, no matter how people tried to play it. To be then what you were must have been brought a sorrowful sadness. Such confussion. I never knew.

We were friends for many years, then we weren't.

I didn't want to be a part of the "party" scene any more. Those days were far behind for me. It was over. The 60's and 70's had passed me by and I had survived. You stayed there. I don't know why. Perhaps it was because of who you were, who knows.

My ole friend. I miss you today. I wish you were here. There are so many things I would share with you. Remember, I said you would be the rich one? Sitting in your big easy chair, tweed jacket, smoking a stogie - flipping the ashes in a McCoy double tiered ash tray......so regal, so elegant. A standard breed poodle by your side? Ha, my ole friend.

You wouldn't even call when the time come for you to leave. Why didn't you call? I would have come. Been there with you. Never would I leave you alone. You were surrounded by strangers. Broke my heart.

I will never forget you.

We were friends for 20 some years, then we weren't.
I miss you.

Linda

2007-02-13T09:55:00.000-08:00

Hey, Linda

Remember that summer afternoon, in the front room of your house on East Main Street, when we ironed Stroke's hair, so he would look especially cool, for the big dance out at Ater's Lake later that evening?

You put newspaper over his hair as we ironed, so as not to burn it.

Did you know then how good looking your brother was?

Remember, we ironed creases down the front of our jeans? And you wore that printed fabric shirt that tied in the back? Blue eye shadow on your green

What year was that? Yes, 1972. We listened to the Beatles, Three Dog Night and A.M Radio!

Neil's hair was long and you thought he was the hottest guy alive!

Remember the fun we had?

You were my best friend then.

Look at you, cute as a button.

Remember...................................

Dad's stories.

2007-01-27T12:39:00.000-08:00

Born November 11th, 1915.
1925 ten years old
Nicknamed Turk
Best Friend nichname - Half Pint
Raised in Washington D.C.
Originally from Kentucky, Father died from unknown illness when he was 3 or 4. Mother moved to Washington D. C.
Married a man named Diggs, who drank too much and took it out on dad.

One day, old man Diggs came home drunk and chased dad around and around the house, as one room led to another and you could litterally make a cirlce in the house. His mother was screaming, dad was running and old man Diggs was trying to catch him. The more dad ran, the madder Diggs got. Finally dad, ran to a room with a door and slammed it into old man Diggs as he ran after him. It knocked old man Diggs down with a bloody nose. Dad told him the next time he tried to whip him, dad would beat him to a pulp. Old man Diggs never tried to whip him again. Dad age 14 that day.

Mother worked in secretary pool across the street from the White House.
One day she was pulled from the pool and took dictation from President Warren Harding, so the story goes.
Dad remembers his first peanut butter sandwich in the 20's.
Stold ice from the back of the horse drawn ice trucks
Coal delivered weekly, back of the house.

One day he took a burlap bag of garden snakes to school and let them loose in the empty hallway. Took him all weekend to gather up the snakes. Why? He said to watch the girls scream.

Lived in row houses, 1638 street north east
He remembers there wasn't electric, only gas lights in the house, oil lamps, and candles.
The streets were dirt and lit by gas lights.
He said along in the 20's somewhere, he remembers watching from the second floor bedroom night after night as the new electric street lights moved closer and closer down the streets to his house. They electric lights have a different look from the gas light. And no hissing sound.

Half Pint and Turk went to the prison at the edge of town and tried to climb up the walls to watch a man be hanged. They had heard about the hanging and wanted to see. Dad remembers they climbed part way up the wall when all hades broke loose. Sirens, lights, men yelling to stop! Freeze! We'll shoot! The prison guard drug them from the wall and took them - by their ears - to the warden, who gave them a stirn talking to and drove them home to his mother's.
They were so excited because the Warden had a automobile.

Dad remembers a Model T.

Mother whipped him.

Age 12. There was a big bully at school who whipped dad most every day after school.
Dad was small for his age. One day, he grew tire of the bully. When school let out, dad said he ran as fast as he could through the back field. The bully hot on his heels. When the bully got close, Turk tucked in a ball and fell on the ground. The bully was too close and fell overtop of Turk. Turk jumped up and whipped the bully, who was bigger and couldn't get up as fast as a wiry little kid.

Dad remembers one day, old man Diggs was taken him to go fishing at the river. As they walked to the river, behind some factories, a man screaming consumed in flames, ran from a factory building - trying to get to the river. Dad said old man Diggs grabbed dad and tried to save him from the site by covering dad's head in his arms, but dad said he could see the burning man from a small crevis of Diggs arm. The burning man colasped before he made it to the river. Dad said it was the only act of kindness he could remember from old man Diggs, that Diggs tried to save dad from having that vision in his mind's eye.

Wishes and hopes and dreams and prayers.....

2006-07-21T09:52:00.000-07:00

Gosh, this summer heat is awful. It is hovering around 99 degrees today. The humidity is just hanging in the air like sheets on a line, so depressing. For some reason, it has me thinking of summers way back when....

Makes me want to go home. You ever just want to go home?

I don't mean where you live now, I mean back then, back to the time when you were growing up. The good times with your friends, hanging out at the Mead swimming pool.

The Mead was and is a local paper mill in our little town. Our little town is Chillicothe, Ohio. Back in the 60's, and 70's the company offered admission to a "private" pool, built for their workers, families, and friends. We had an uncle who worked for the Mead, that is how we got in. In general, everyone in the town knew someone who worked there.

It was our perfect summer hangout. Huge pool, diving boards, life guards, concession stand. I vividly recall the cement sectioned off in big squares surrounding the pool, in turn surrounded by grassy areas. The cement was almost blistering hot on bear feet. You would dance across. I remember that very clearly. The laughter, the fun, the smell of chlorine........

You stayed cool by wearing the skimpiest of bathing suits. By today's standards, they were modest, but back then......wow!

You could tan till you were dark as dirt, no one worried about skin cancer back then. How innocent we were. We flirted with every boy our age...and some that weren't, and in general, had a wonderful summer. Which meant, we did nothing at all!

I use to go with Linda Oldrieve - forgive me if I have spelled her name wrong, it has been many years. Lucky girl, wore a two piece bathing suit. I was always envious (in a nice way) of her clothes, her way with people, and her style. She had the nicest personality. I really liked Linda. Wonder what ever happened to her.......

She could jump off the high dive board. I always thought she was the coolest girl. I wasn't cool in any way. I was lucky to jump off the regular board, such was my geekness. That along with my shyness, back then, made me the perfect dwibe, but then I did have the only car.

Linda, on the other hand, was the life of every party, and every boy wanted her.
This summer, she dated David Larson. He was considered a hot catch, by every girl in town. David Larson, massive blond hair, angelic movie star face, and one gold tooth, right in front. Every single time David smiled, hearts melted. I swear, you would hear birds singing in the air. I couldn't even look at him, such was the glow. Dang, that boy was HOT! Wonder what ever happened to him.

Linda was crazy about him. She couldn't wait to get to the Mead pool everyday, just to see David. Me, either, lol.

What a summer that was. Life was so good. I thought nothing bad would ever happen and for that summer - it didn't. The perfect snapshot of the perfect summer day, for me was that summer. I miss it. I want to go home, just for a little while, for one hot summer's day.

- Sound of telephone dialing.....
Girl answers on the other end, "Hello?"
Starla speaks, "Linda, you ready for the pool?"
Linda answers, "Hurry up! Time's a wasting."

Record Keeping

2006-06-10T04:44:00.000-07:00

This is mostly a side note.

I found a yellowed piece of paper in my grandmother's dresser.
I live in her house now, have for the last ten years or so, still finding bits of her leftover life.

Funny the things we leave behind when we go. She left this note, as if a passing thought some afternoon. So I give you the note.

John E. Kendall was born, March, 28 - 1855 and he died, Sept, 24 - 1918
Addie F. Kendall was born Aug. 6 - 1858 and died Nov. 4 - 1925
Anna Kille's parents

Can you imagine that. Written on a half torn white piece of paper, like she was afraid she would forget the dates in her coming old age. She was one hundred and three when she passed away.

Although we were not close, she was my grandmother and I respected her. At one time in her life, she worked at the White House as a secretary, before settling to work here at the V.A. I don't know much about her beyond that. My mother did not bring us kids to visit often.

Now, look at the things I write to leave behind. Same reasons....a person doesn't want to be forgotten and doesn't want to forget. To serve the purpose of achieving any part of immortality, I think.

Yet, with a computer record, no one will be able to discover the tomb five thousand years hence. This record can never last as long as ones left in the past, in stone, in written words, in story.

But it all ends the same, just so someone can find a piece of yellowed paper and discover an interesting bit of trivia someday.

More triva - Grandparents
Grandfather - Wilbert "Buck" Cydrus
Birth - 21 May 1880
Franklin, Ross, Ohio
Marriage 21, April 1907
Death 16 April 1959 - Dayton, Montgomery, Ohio

His wife and my grandmother wax Harriet Navatta McCorkle
Birth 1- April 1890 Three Locks road, Ross, Ohio
Death 16 Feb. 1981 Ross County, Ohio

Wilbert's Father was
Silas Cydrus - Born 25 JUN 1848 in Springfield Twp., Gallia County, Ohio
Death: 29 MAY 1923 in Franklin Twp., Ross County, Ohio
Silas Cydrus's father was Isaac Cydrus and his mother was Nancy Jane Siders - at this time no futher information is know about Isaac and Nancy.

Wilbert's Mother was
Mother - Mary Eliza "Polly" Manbevers - she was born Dec 1852 in Ohio, she died on Aug 18th, in Mt. Sterling, Pickaway County, Ohio

Now Mary Manbevers' Father was John Manbevers -borned somewhere around 1812 in Beavertown, Pike County, Ohio
Mary Manbevers - Mother was Permelia Holcomb borned and died somewhere between Oct 1823 and 1833 in Ohio

Mary Manbevers father, was John Manbevers and he was born about 1812 in Beavertown, Pike County, Ohio and died between September or October in 1899 in Antonis, Ross County, Ohio
Permelia Holcomb was Mary Manbevers mother and was born between Oct 1823 and 1833 in Ohio and she died Jan. 26, 1917 in Pickaway County, Ohio

Now Permelia Holcomb's father was Sylvanus Holcomb and he was born in 1801 in Spensortown, Columbia County, New York and Sylvanus died in 1877 in Vinton, Gallia County, Ohio. Now Permelia's mother was Elizabeth McLain who was born about 1800 and died between 1860 and 1870 in Ohio

Now Sylvanus Holcomb's father was John Holcomb and his mother was Chloe Mudge. John was born Jan 14th, 1775 in Spencertown, Columbia County, New York and Chloe was born in 1776 or in 1779 in New Lebanon, Columbia County, New York. John Holcomb was a Judge in Gallia county Ohio from 1823-1830. He served in the State of Ohio Legislature from Gallia county Ohio and was also a census taker.

Vicky Mason

2006-05-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

Remember Vickie's house in Olentangy River View Apartments?

Macrame hangers with spider plants hanging from the ceiling.

Bricks and board shelves, covered with the best stereo.

Incense fragrance's through the air.

Multi colored carpet.

Styrofoam homemade couch.

Lava lamp.

Wind chimes inside.

The parties.

Fishing

2006-05-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

Remember as kids, we would go to the river to fish.

My dog, scamp fell into the river one night, and climbed up under the bank unable to get back on top of the river bank.

Neil jumped in the river, reached under the bank and drug my dog to safety.

He was my hero for many years to come.

Mark Bayless

2006-03-21T10:22:00.000-08:00

The promise of youth and basketball, there was no one greater.

Where are they now?

2006-03-19T14:42:00.000-08:00

Check them out! Remember when!
Vicky Terry
Neil Terry
Belinda Terry
Little Chris Mason

Mark Bayless was around at this time.

Nice guy.

Where are they now?

2006-03-19T14:31:00.000-08:00

Turk Stone - Owned the Dairy Freeze on East Main Street near Mt. Logan Jr. High
Lived in the Chillicothe Manor in the 1970's
Playing with my dog Scamp - 1968

Where are they now?

2006-03-18T15:50:00.000-08:00

Roger Pritchard

Where are they now?

2006-03-18T15:37:00.000-08:00

Vicky Stepp - Lived in Portsmouth and went to college at Shawnee State Community College
We all went to college together and lived on Second Street, Portsmouth, Ohio.

Chuck Miller

2006-03-18T11:40:00.000-08:00

Godzilla movies, Mad Magazine, Saturday Night Live.

Sitting on front porch.

Peanut Butter Sandwiches

The little Red Gremlin

2006-03-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

Remember Marty Higgin's little red Gremlin?

Linda

2006-03-18T09:53:00.000-08:00

Little Linda Oldrieve
Her brother, Mark, was nicknamed "Stroke"
They were very popular.

Linda was Neil's girlfriend. First love, young love, forever love...................

Chris Roof

2006-03-18T09:52:00.000-08:00

Remember Chris Roof?
Loved her makeup, clothes, and karate.

Everyone was Kungfoo Fighting.

Her brother, Terry

Neil Terry

2006-03-18T09:49:00.000-08:00

Neil Terry always had the best music and the best stereo.

Judy Kuhner

2006-03-18T09:48:00.000-08:00

Judy Kuhner - Best friend through thick n thin.

Anna Stone

2006-03-18T09:47:00.000-08:00

My sister, Anna Stone

Marty Higgins

2006-03-18T09:42:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite friends was Marty Higgins.

Where are they now?

2006-03-18T08:43:00.000-08:00

Rogers Parkway

Tree lined streets gave rise to "corning".

One crisp autumn evening, we climbed the tree, in front of Judy's house, and threw corn at passing cars.

The final car, that evening, was a police car. We cringed in fear, not one body inhaled or exhaled. The car stopped, the police, with flashlight in hand began to search.

We remaind undiscovered. The police left. We descended and scatered to the four corners of the block.

2006-03-18T08:35:00.000-08:00

Vicky Shoults - Lives in Chillicothe

Cindy Shoults -

Tommy Campbell - Lives in Chillicothe Manor

Wendell Adkins - Passed Away

Brenna Adkins -

Kathy Adkins - Radio Host in another city.

Tammy Jones -

Where are they now?

2006-03-18T08:32:00.000-08:00

The 1970's. Growing up in the Chillicothe Manor on Rogers Parkway.Where are they now?

Starla Stone - Lives in Chillicothe.

Judy Kuhner - Lives in Chillicothe.

Marty Higgins - Passed away.

Chuck Miller - Peanut Butter Sandwiches

Brian Ferguson - One great weekend house party.

Neil Terry - Music, life.

Frank Parks - Lives in Chillicothe

Vicky Terry - Lives in Columbus

Chris Roof - Lives in Chillicothe

Pat Hunt - Moved to California, last heard from in 1980.

Arnie Peppin - Unknown