VOLUI·lE FOUR

Russell T. Mattesen, Coach Diane Runde, Ice Skater Ronald F . Storms , Lal'Jyer St. Patrickts Day- 1976 .~ Robert Creech, Sr., "Oakie Huskogee" , Herber.t' P. Stearns" BOHler "Hello Dolly", TIevieHs

Joyc'e Uojtas, Politician' Jack Harshman, Baseball Leo and Carolyn Bravakis, Teachers r/largaret L. Colli, Nother

Pa.~ll and Hi ta Roy, Football First Year of Column Po.lish Airline at Bradley

"Cabbages and Kings" With Jack Redlnond THE WINDSOR LOCKS JOURNAL, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1976

"Cabbages and I(ings" operated by Russ and Phil Scott, also of Windsor Locks. When Russ came to Windsor Locks in 1955 he and his wife, the Jack Redm.ond former Eleanor Gilman, had been married for three years. The childhood sweethearts met in the junior high school in Stafford Springs when. they both were drummers in the school band. Russ and Eleanor have five children. Maureen 23, recently married to John Lisotto; Russell 20, Gary 18, Sharon 14, and Memories of the 1965 World Thomas 12. Rusty and Gary Championship ~re always pleas­ played Little League, major and ant for the Mattesens and senior, and both boys were on the O'Connors of Windsor Locks. State Championship teams under Both Russ and Bob·agreed on soccer coach Dan Sullivan. different sessions of the •• great Prior to his coaching duties in kids and their desire" when local circles Russ made a notable speaking of the little boys from record as a player on the baseball town at Williamsport eleven paths of the Farmington Valley years ago. Some folks, new to League with the Windsor Locks town, may think the World team. Softball and basketball had Champs of '65 is over-empha­ its share of his time. Russ sized, either written or discus­ remembers some of the players sed, it was a great event. The he performed with ... BiII Reilly, boys, . parents and coaches all John Flanders, Russ Jubrey, remember, and rightfully so. Pete Tenero, Joe Fitzpatrick, Through the years, Russ has Carmen Guido, John Lusa, Rod coached some fine players. It Greene, Tony Romano of Enfield RUSS MA1TESEN would be impractical to list them and many others. Perennial Coach all here, however, in the pitching The Windsor Locks Parks The scene is Pesci Park, end of the game he spoke of Departr:n,e~t ,~as ha~ . ~i&l talents­ middle of July, and stepping out Roche, Boardman, Farr, Shapiro the past ten years 'as a soccer' of the dugout is a tall, and Wezowicz. The hitting of big coach and basketball supervisor. good-looking individual, familiar Dale Misiek, the great fielding of Just to keep things even up, Russ to all the Windsor Locks sport Sheerer and Tersavich, and the has been connected with the fans, (especially Little League agility of Bob Creech in the Hartford Chapter of the Con­ followers) Russ Mattesen, the crucial game with, Danvers necticut Baseball Umpire Associ­ perennial coaen or manager of leading to the championship ation. He has worn the black suit the local all-stars. ' game. Russ said he, "enjoyed of the umpire at many American Russ has been an all sports the whole episode" at William­ Legion contests and some local fellow since his childhood days in sport and feels the boys will high school games. The Central Stafford Springs. The Little appreciate the winning more now Connecticut Chapter of' Soccer League program is an extension as they grow older. Referees has had his name on the of his life as a baseball and Before Mr. Mattesen could live roster for years. This ApriJ will basketball star for the east of the those moments of history over find Russ and Lou LaTorra in river town. He was born in again a few vital statistics had to charge of the sixth grade Rockville, the Mattesens moved be recorded. Russ played basket­ basketball team in the home 'and to the Springs town and Russ was ball and baseball for his four home series with the Rockville, off to school and a Jifetime of years at Stafford Springs High Maryland team. It's an annual sports. School. One year he was on the event for the young court stars of For the past twelve baseball football team but baseball and town and the southern town. seasons Russ has shared his the court were hjs real claim to In 1966, the Veterans of talents with the boys of town on fame in the little town. In 1950 Foreign Wars in town honored how to bat, throw and most of Russ was selected for the Russ as the "Sportsman of the all ... win. Russ said his idol in the All-State basketball team (Class Year. " sports world is not a diamond C). He attended A.I.C. on a EPILOG star or court wonder but the only baseball and basketball scholar· Russell T. Mattesen has been a real coach in football ... Vince ship. After college he secured a sportsman all of his young and Lombardi. And every sport bug position with Air Kaman. For a adult life. He believes, "the knows Mr. Lombardi's phil­ few years he performed on the people of Windsor Locks are osophy .... • 'winning . is every­ diamond and court for the interested in all sports and make thing.;' Our. local WiJJiamsport Bloomfield firm. In 1956 he themselves active as specta­ expert feels "a well disciplined joined the Hamilton Standard tors. " Men like Russ have put team of boys makes a winning Division and participated in the town on the sport map of team," and Russ has the record softball and basketball traveling Connecticut and the world. This 'to prov~ the point. The il1l~sta~ a1l over New England on the Gary Cooper-type individual is a teams he has been associated division teams. After fourteen credit to the sporting fraternity of with since 1963 have won 55 and years in the aircraft business players, coaches and officials. oilly on the losing side ten Russ departed for· private busi­ times. After the big 1965 victory ness in the sports equipment his clubs won state titles in 1966 line. The Mattesen Sport Shop, and 1972. He has shared duties Inc. is located in \ Windsor and is with Bob O'Connor and Lou LaTorra. THE WINDSOR LOCKS JOURNAL. THURSDA Y. FEBRUARY 26. 1976

When not skating, gomg to school a'nd homework, and now "Cabbages and Kings" the play, Diana enjoys square dancing and some sewing when time permits. Her schedule in Jack RedInond school is arranged so that she can skate every day in South Windsor or West Hartford and save' the nights for the play. The "Hello, Dolly" musical comedy production is her first attempt at a singing and acting role. The little blonde lovely, who resembles a very young Carol Channing, should find no trouble converting from the ice to the Two .of Diana's, close. friends, stage. The ice-dancing routines Judi Genovesi of Verno'n a~d are a part of show business and Kent Weigle of West Hartford with all her past success the role won second place in the National is in good hands, even without Gold Dance competition at the the, skates~ Beside Diana, the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado principal parts will be performed Springs. The win earned them a by Bill Burstzyn, Rich Broome, place on the 1976 U.S. Olympic Jan Briere, Mike Thibodeau and team and a trip to Innsbruck, Carla Deschaine. The cast has Austria. The young pair worked been practicing three times. a under the guidance of Hugh week. Save the two weekends 'of Seaman, the coach of the Charter April for a big show in town.· Oak Skating Club. Diana and Diana was given her baptism Ken are also under the tutorage on the at:! of skating at the tender of Mr. Seaman at the Hartford age of four. Instead of being Club. The olympic pair are not thrown in the water, like most only friends of Diana but she kids, her parents figured she was admires them as students of the a future Peggy Fleming and tried art of ice dancing. the ice and it worked. The young Diana remarked, '·1 admlrel skater has traveled to Delaware people close to me because I can and California at different times relate more on a personal basis. I for sessions of practice and have, of course, heard of the competition. Sonja Henies and Peggy Fleming Miss Runde has found time to but really do not know them keep up with her subjects and is a DIANA RUNDE OF WINDSOR LOCKS AND KEN SIMLER OF personally like Judi and Kent." member of the National Honor SOUTH WINDSOR Miss Runde was asked if she Society. The Windsor Locks was contemplating, after high native, who lives near another school, pursuing a career on the famous citizen of our town, Gov. "HELLO, DIANA" ice circuit with the Ice Follies or Ella Grasso on Woodland Street Petite Diane Runde, Windsor Capades? "No, I would rather was honored recently asa Locks' own ice skating star, will turn professional and' teach member of "Who's Who in leave the ice for a short period for ice-dancing." She said the hectic American High School Stu­ the lead in "Hello, Dolly." The life or traveling from city to city dents." The square dancing of senior class play, with Diana in on one week stands did not the floor and not on ice is taken the role Carol Channing made appeal to her. The popcorn, rather seri9usly as she is a famous on Broadway, will be feathers and sequins, and th~ charter member or the "Windsor presented the first two weekends smell of the cold arenas were not Locks Undecided Squares." I of April on the high school stage. her idea of skating. The teaching doubt if Diana Runde has an Diana's first love is ice skating, offered her more, as to true' undecided bone in her little principally dance-skating with ambition. She skates every day frame. her,partner Ken Simler of South for practice and is "thrilled with EPILOG Windsor.' The twosome have her hobby. I do it for fun." Diana Runde, cute as a button, been skating together a little over not the Dick Button of a few years two years. In December the pair back, will play the part of the placed second in the Silver Dance matchmaker in "Hello, Dolly" event at the Eastern Figure and will probably dance and sing Skating Championships in New up an icy, storm, something she York City. The high finish learned years ago on the cold qualified them to compete last surface and smoothly convert her month in Colorado Springs, talent to the stage. The Capades Colo., in the United States loss will be the future skaters championships. They placed gain, when she teaches on the ice fourth in the national. highly of Connecticut in a few years. 'competitive event. THE WINDSOR LOCKS JOURNAL THURSDAY M ' , ARCH 4,1976 '

"Cabbages and Kings" Jack Redntond

'~is wife Polly Ann 'Miller of Sheffield, Mass. met Ron while ,in high school and the two were : married in 1952. After gradua­ tion from Trinity Ron joined the Air Force as a First Lieutenant and was soon off to the wild blue yonder with his young bride and the air fields of Texas and Nebraska. He served as a vital part of, the Strategic Air Command for three years and via the air traveled to Euope, Africa VFW Sports Night. and all over these United States. Son, like father, Scott Storms, ~uring his service time two of his was an Eagle Scout, an honor children were born, Scott, now shared with his father. Speaking 20, 'in Texas,' and Kim, 18, in of the scouting movement, Ron Nebraska. Their youngest Holly, has been a committeeman on the at 15, and a freshman at the local' Boy Scout Council just to keep up high school, is the only native of with this worthwhile part of a Windsor Locks. Scott is a junior young man's outdoor life. Sports at the University of Hartford, and have always played a part in according to Ron, will be Ron t s activities. He coached studying for the bar in a few Little League, minor to the years Kim is at Baypath in, seniors, for eight years. nearby Longmeadow. When asked. what organiza­ After his service responsibi­ tions he was a member. his voice lity, which Ron described as, "a changed to a Lion's roar, a roar great time of our lives, my wife for the local Lions. He's a very and I will always be appreciate of' active member and is a past the service and the enormous president of the club, received benefits deriv~d from those three the Lions Master Key Award, RON STORMS great years." Ron entered the and quite proudly stated how his LAWYER AND SPORTSMAN law school at the University of son Scott became a member at Don't let the name fool you. Connecticut. In 1960 he gradua­ eighteen. Ronald F. Storms, better known ted with the degree of Doctor of The Storms spend their spare as Ron, is far from a stormy Laws. time at Lake Winnepesaukee in ;individual. He's the calm outdoor With only a few years in the New Hampshire. As mentioned, type ... skier, golfer, boater and they aHlove to ski and boat in the enjoys these sporting activities practice of law Ron got his feet wet in the business of politics. In true tradition of tis area up north. with his wife Polly and their three 1962 and 1968 he ran for State Ron admits to being a golfer in he children. hacker category, however, he The Storms famity lives on Elm Representative as a Republican s~id, quite happily, of winning Street in a house built in 1844, and lost in this Democratic dominated community. In 1971 the Suffield Inn Invitational used in the 19th century as a Tourney Hackers Award at the boy's school, and renovated with he gave a better run for the laurels and just barely lost out for I Suffield Country Club. loving care by Ron and Polly. An EPILOG old house with all the modern the Judge of Probate. He was on the GOP town committee for Ronald F. Storms is a civic conveniences but maintained contributor, lawyer, sportsman, with the older century style and fourteen years. There are no political ambitions in the future and a family man who believes grace. Windsor Locks is "our kind of Ron was 'born in Salisbury, for this counselor-at-law. Ron's list of credentials as an town." He said quite frankly, in Connecticut, a town located in involved citizen is rather long, reference to the downtown the northwestern nook 'of the situation, "People make the Nutmeg state with he Empire and indeed.impressive. Former member of Park Commission. town, not the Main Street." I and Bay states as boundary lines. th~ one of the Directors of the remember reading the following, He was educated in the local Chamber of Commerce, on the which I believe captializes the schools, the Indian Mountain Board of Trustees for several Ron Storms philosophy .... •A Prep School and the Hotchkiss years for the Windsor Locks family relationship. complete School in Lakeville, Connecticut. Congregational Church. He was with marriage and kids, can He excelled in football. basket­ the chairman of the Building provide people with the constant ball, and baseball at the famous Committee for Montgomery Hall support they need, a sense of boys institute of learning. He in 1965, a former member of the belonging. " came to Hartford and Trinity Public Health and Redevelop­ ~ollege where in his senior year ment Committees. Ron is a past , he 'waS- the -Co'rps 'Com-man'

"Cabbages and Kings" Jack Redntond your boss. Everyone will tit: ~ ,;,... .. " , ,J' better' for it. Right? I did. . \' ,~~~~i~~ say ... blarney spoken here. ' .... !"'~~"! In our own Windsor Locks there are numerous families with Irish' ·'names or "very close connections with the little island west of England. How about the Boyles on Woodland or Spring Street; the Courtneys on North, Main or Elm; ,the Duffys on Pershing Road; and how about, all the "Me" ... the McCartliys, Me­ ConneJls, McCormicks, McDon­ aids, and the celebrated "O's" ... the O'Briens," O'Connells, 0' BLARNEY SPOKEN HERE Learys, O'Neils, and on and on. The word blarney by definition So folks, wear the. &reen. Add means ... skilIful flattery. The an \'0" to your name for only one famous Blarney Stone at the day next week. You'll' feel all castle near Cork, Ireland is the perked up. Everyone will know ceremonial mecca where visitors, you care, especially the, recipi­ and probably residents of the ents of your good judgment. Our

area, are I held at a precarious little world will be a better-place position, and when' at the right to wear the green suit, sweater, angle and moment,' kiss the tie, coat or hat even that favorite sacred stone, and therefore, and shillelagh. Iforever after; are / considered The way I see it a little bl~rney skilled in flattery. ,will help you survive in our My wife and I have been to the everyday routine. old sod' but our travel agent President John Kennedy said arranged for only a few days in the following words on his visit to Dublin. Maybe someday we'll. Dublin in 1963 ... "The play­ kiss the holy stone. Ob well, I can wright, George Bernard Shaw still have flirtatious intentions by speaking as an J.rishman, sum­ coating. them with my own med up an approach to life .... special brand of flattery. ' ·Other peoples,' he said, 'see Next week is St. Patrick's Day things and say, why? ... But I and everyone' will say they're dream thi~gs that never were Irish, or have relatives -from and I say, why nqt?' It is that Ireland, or some lost uncle by quality of the\ Irish, the remark­ way of Germany or Italy that was able combination of hope, con­ sinvolv'ed with an Irish colleen a fidence, and imagination, that is few centuries ago when the needed' more than ever today. invasion by foreign countries of The problems of the world cannot the Emerald Isie was the rule and be solved by skeptics or cynics not the reason for visitation whose horizons are limited by the rights. obvious realities. We need men So on March 17 when everyone who can dream' of, things ,that is w'earing the green you'll never were, and ask why not." realize it's their humble way of Erin go Bragh .... flattery for other humans. We all ~1J like to flatter our friends and sometfmes our, enemies and ,/I/litdllJtlll~/ .~~/~/~~;'l' receive the same in return. It helps both sides. 'It makes us mortals feel all good inside. A cheery hello, or you look good today, or how about ... gee, that's a great jacket or dress you have on, depending on the gender. See what I meall? . So start tomorrow, or, better still, tonight, get a jump on the great day, and flatter your chiJdr~~,'. your_ wife, your hus~~ ~,and, 'your neighbors or everi" 1 THE WINDSOR LOCKS JOURNAt, THURSDAY, MARCH 18, 1976 aircraft company for 1:7 yean. Carol is with Hamilton now. ,But "Cabbages and Kings, Bob, after leaving Hamilton, " tried' . his hand at his· own With business and even named it the Jack Redm.ond C~erokee . Manufcturing Com­ pany. Presently he's employed in BOB CREECH, SR. Rockville with the ANO·Coil "Olde from Muskogee" Company. Muskogee, . Oklahoma is a Before a rundown of Robert, western style town located in the Sr. is in order ~ to his sport and Indian country called Cherokee After boot camp he traveled to fraternal career a word or tw(1 territory ... "where the living is Virginia and trained as a concerning his three sons, Tom, right, and free, where they stilI "frogman" and made several Bob; Jr., and the ' youngest and respect the college dean" where trips up and down the Atlant,c biggest, Jeffrey. Tom is married the roughest thing on campus is ocean ,with frequent ,stops in to Susan Archambault of Rhode football, where squares can have North Africa. Bob, who learned Island and they live in Man­ a ball, and the wearing of leather his' baseball back home in chester with their son Chris­ boots is considered manly." Oklahoma, time permitting, was topher. Tom played Little League Merle Haggard 'made these a member of the North Atlantic and Babe Ruth baseball and was words:' famous in his great Fift~ Fleet team. Bob played chosen for three years on the western and country song, ".okie third base. He quite proudly local All-stars. Bob, Jr., is a from Muskogee." mentioned two of his teammates graduate of Hartford Community He added, "I've enjoyed all Robert Creech' Sr.' is an Okie were Mel Parnell, the great Red College and is .currently attend­ my 25 years or so with the Little from ,Muskogee and when he So~ pitcher, and Birdie Tebbetts, ing Central Connecticut College. wears the' 'leather boots and Bob was on the 1965 Windsor League and American Legion." the cather and manager in both One of the high poins, he said, cowboy hat (by Stetson) he major leagues. , Locks World Champs Little symbolizes the true meaning of League team. Last year he was the sports night he ran to When the war ended he raise money for the American the Oklahoma spirit and the returned to Muskogee. However, 'married Patti Redmond" and the words by Merle ijaggard. newlyweds live in East Granby. Legior), program~ The speaker in a few days he decided "no was Tony Conigliaro, better Bob grew up on 'a 3,300 acre more ranching life for me." He Young Jeff played senior and big ranch with his family, made up of league bail in town and was on known as Tony C, and the night had met Carol Alves of Province­ was ;a, huge success: Bob, Sr. eight children and parents of town, Mass., on a blind date back the J 972 ~ew England Senior Irish and' Indian ancestry. His ~ittle League Champs. H~ works introduced the first "pitching in 1945, and he left the ranch for arm" in town to aid batters. He father was born in .Ireland and the Cape, Carol, and in Novem­ with his father, gets his kicks out came to the United States, of owning a van and listening to and Carol love to travel back to ber of 1946, the wedding the Cape and when time permits settled in Oklahoma and married ceremony. Carol, native of the rock music. a girl who was part Irish and part Bob loves to fish and hunt, two pilgrim's, first' landing' placed, Bob, the senior one, has a very reminders of his boyhood days Indian. lived a very normal life on the notable career in serVice organi­ The ranch life was hard, back in Oklahoma. water"s edge, but her playmates zations. He's past commander, of according to Bob. It was the part were destined for future notor­ the Provincetown VFW and has of the west where everyone iety. Among her acquaintances been a member for 30 years. The EPROG "fights the elements' and found were Oona O'Neil, daughter of local American Legion also calls Robert Creech, Sr., father of the territory life rough as it the playwright Eugene 'O'Neil, Bob a past commander and, a three good baseball players, existed during the late twenties and later the' wife of the great member for 29 years. Bob's been veteran of two wars, was not and early thirties," as Bob movie star Charlie Chaplin. Also a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus afraid to tackle a change in life, remembers his first eighteen the children of John Whorf, the since 1961. whether it be'a new career in the years as an Okie from Muskogee. artist, and Richard Whorf, the business world or switching from They worked seven days a week Hollywood director. Their chil­ In the sporting end of life Bob, the code of the west to the shores and' Saturday nights were the dren played the games of the day as mentioned,' learned the basics of the Cape. only time for going 'to town. It with Carol and she also remem­ of baseball as a kid back in Bob's been his own boss,' and was where a ride on a horse to bers many a time sneaking a few Oklahoma where the season lasts has been ,a foreman' of many school was the only mode ,of looks at the actors' rehearsing for nine months. He said a great employees, thert;fore, it makes transt!ortation and snow days their lines under the direction of many of the major league players sehse, to me to quote the famous just meant another day of Mr. O'Neil: Carol recalls, Mr. come from the southwest and to lawyer, Louis Nizer, and the learning. O'Neil always had his favorite name only two •.. Mickey Mantle words fit Bob Creech. "A man World War II changed the life monkey perched 011 his shoulder. and Allie Reynolds. Bob was who. works with his hands is a of BobCteech ... from ranchero to it be on the stage or the street, involved in the Little League laborer: a man who works with sailor and then a transplanted to the little pet would be on his program back in 1948 and his his hands and ,his brain is a the picturesque and tourist favorite .perch. ' team won the Cape Cod craftsman; a man who works with paradise of Cape Cod., The war Bob was employed by the City championship. In 1960, he his hands and his brain and his was Bob"s way of leaving his Water Works of Provincetown started to coach and manage heart is an artist." native" state gracefully and an and during the five years with the Little League and American opportunity to view ~hat was on town their first-born, Thomas Legion teams. ' the other side of the' oil fields and <;ame upon the scene. Then He said his idea~ on sports or Indian reservations. another war, another separation life itself, is to win. He strongly He entered the U.s. Navy in for Bob and Carol. In December, endorsed Leo Durocher's line ... 1943 at the Great Lakes Naval 1951 Boh was called back to the "Good guys finish last." As to Station in Illinois. He remembers Navy because of the Korean sports, "players are born, not coming to Chicago for t~e firfrt conflict. He was discharged in made. Teach them the funda­ time in his cowboy boots and hats March of 1953 and finally, they mentals: and if they're good, the and just a little out of step. When hoped, was home for good. rest will 'be easy. " he was deeked ,olit in his sailor's The Creech family, now with gob, he realized he was in the Robert, Jr. added, moved to serVice and it sure felt different •.. Connecticut in 1954. The father of the house secured a job with the Hamilton Standard Division and was' employed with the year be sure to come to meet Dolly, played by the Dor(,thy THE WIN'DSO.R LOCKS JOURNAL, THURSDAY, MARCH 25. 1976 Hamill of. Windsor Locks, our own Diana Runde. . Dave feels the town is now "ready for the shows due to the "Cabbages and Kings" new a!1d general interest in music of the students and With parents." All the graminar schools in town have music Jack Redmond teachers and with their constant help to the pupils there should be MUSIC: no problems for the future bands "THE SPEECH OF ANGELS'" at the high school. . "Bongiorni, Bongiorni," the When queried as to the' literal translation for the non-bi­ selection of the cast for "DoUy" , lingual readers ... "Good Days, Dave said the job was made easy Good Days." And good days are because of the able assistance of indeed in store for the ears of James Gatto and Robert Rossi, music lovers of Windsor Locks both teachers. He said. "There's especially if the likes of David J. a lot of talent in town and thanks Bongiorni has his way in music to Dr.' Peter D' Arrigo for 'his intrepretation. The youthful mu­ understanding and guidance the sic' teacher at the high school is growth of a good music system is all, music and the _ town is' on the way to years of success in fortunate to have such talent in his important part of a student's the educational system. education. " ' Dave, native born, and school­ The school band,' all 45 of ed in Windsor Locks, received his When Dave is not at the them. rehearses several times a degree in Music Education in school. podium or rehearsing the week and Dave admitted he has a nearby Storrs at the University of latest "Hello Qolly" number. he certain amount of communication Connecticut. When he'graduated enjoys picture' taking, snowmo­ with his students. Playing an in 1974 he found in his search for biles and how about a little night instrument is likened to playing a position an opening at the high music by way of 'records, the soccer or basketball, in that it school for a :music teacher. He radio or television. He admits to takes hours of practice, and a jumped at the chance of being in listening to, serious music from little push and understanding his hometown. The rest is all the the minds of Bach and Beetho­ from a coach' Sullivan or good musical sounds pouring ven, but also has an ear' for musicman Dave 'Bongiorni, de­ from the instruments of the "good pop and good rock" and pending on one's talent, be it a students at the many concerts. 'his favorite singers never sang at; Paul King or Lori Poggi. Broadway plays and the fairs the Met. Would you .believe Just to mention a few of the from Danbury to West Spring­ Barbra Streisand, Aretha Frank­ performances of., the band inl the field. lin and the over-the-rainbow-gal, past several months ... the band Since his own fourth grade Miss Judy Garland, whom he was at the St. Mary's picnic,' the days Dave has been involved in sa\d. "had a great voice~" He's a Friday night football game, the the business of making music. long-hair with modern apprecia­ Eastern States and Danbury He admits being experienced at tion for all avenues of the music fairs, the' Concert 'Dance. the the flute, alto saxophone, clarinet spectru. Satisfaction was mine Uiliversity of Connecticqt Band and a bit of the piano. I guess the when'Dave remembered and still Day, ' playing 'at the Enfield music teacher has to know a little listens to some of the old masters Square, at the fireman's festival, bit of everything in order to help of the swing era ... Glenn ,Miller ,and the senior citizen's party.

the young musicians struggle at and Benny Goodman. I The band has been the official the horn or strings depending on I met the maestro at the high representative for Governor Ella their choice of ,instrument. 'With school instrument room and the Grasso at the Big E and Danbury his background and love of music interview was just before one of Fair. Another honor will be the he studied at the Hartt School of the many practice sessions of the title of the official band for the Music in Hartford during. his Broadway play, "Hello Dolly." Windsor Locks Bicenten~ial cele­ high school days. , The show will be presented the bratioq in May. Dave is a recent benedict and first two weekends of April, and EPILOG his wife has an eqhally colorful if you enJoyed "Camelot" last David J. Bongiorni, with, a name .. Firoella ... meaning "Little name ri~ging, with good sounds, Flower." The former Miss is a musical person and 'feels at DiFelice is f):"!>.!1lStamford, Conn. home listening to Bach or Bobby Darin's rendition of "Mack the Knife." We Broadway buffs love the latest trend' so Dave, the * students,' school system, and other interested music lovers keep the "Dollys" coming, the supply is inexhaustible. ,THE WIN'DSOR LOCKS JOURNAL, THURSDAY, APRIL 1,1976

"Cabbages and K lOgS· " With , Columbus in Somers. the,Ramada Jack Redntond Inn in East Windsor, the Polish Home in Enfield, and currently at AlIce Levesque· The Polka the Mt. Carmel Hali in Enfield on Choreograplier ' Wednesday nights. She institu­ Dancing the light r fantastic ..• ted these beginning lessons as a polka style ... is 'the ideal way to way of keeping active herself and keep active in body and spirit. So as she states, "Everyone should says Mrs. Alice Levesque. get out once in a while. Don't get The lovely blonde wife of in front of the television all night hairdresser Robert Levesoue is or read the newspapers, 'Run for the mother of seven childre~, and your life,' the polka way." advises everyone' to put an extra l For two years Alice was a step in their life and make the J faithful Girl Scout leader and felt \ I J move, the polka way. ",_oM • it was a part of the mother's role The former Alice Swiatek, born in helpin2 the scout movement. and educated in Derby, Ct~. has been dancing the colorful Polish This energetic individual made dance since her father, who had '\ ,a few headlines back in 1974 as a four other daughters. taught her consumer advocate against the \ \. the finer steps of the polka. when high utility rate hikes and carried she was a y~ung girl. with his on a hectic campaign with her own accordion accompaniment. own call letters, "WE SAY NO!" This dancing ability has given Alice says "yes" .to dancing and Alice the opportunity to perform Girl Scouts, but "no" to at Madison Square, Garden in circumstances that bug her, and New York City before over 14,000 rightfully so. fan~ of the art of fancy footwork. Cheryle, 21. is the Oriental step was probably the greatest Her ambition is to visit Poland The famed Garden was the scene dancer in the family.' A great therapeutic' treatment he could the land of her ancestors. She of the Harvest 'Moon Ball, many misinformed persons call have received. Jason can also be feels so much could be seen there sponsored by the New York Daily the dancing of Cheryle, belly seen in the production "Hello with a firsthand view of the News and the late Ed Sullivan, dancing. Alice quickly spoke up Dolly. " The baby of the family is Polish culture and customs and where Alice and her partner and wanted the record straight. Jennifer, two-years-old, another then to be shared with her became one of the twelve couples The correct term is "Oriental cute blonde, and at this tender children and friends.' in the finals. danCing." And she added, "No age already has aspirations to be EPROG She said, "It, was just a, big way: should the' dance be another Alice Levesque on the Alice Levesque, pretty as the thrill being in the Garden and considered striptease." In fact, I dance floor and showed off her dolls of Poland she collects, has dancing before all those peopl~." looked it up in the trusty talent to the writer with a few danced the polka across many Her talent has been expressed in dictionary. Belly dancing is great steps, 'or was it belly states and it's her way of teaching hundred~ of interested "Oriental solo dance, perf9rmed dancing? expression and feels a great lovers of the polka in halls from by a woman, emphasizing Alice keeps active with her program for keeping fit and Windsor Locks to. Springfield, exaggerated movements, of the many dance classes for new polka happy at the! same time. She is Mass. abdominal muscles. " Cheryle trainees of all nationalities. Her truly the syncopation of the She joined the famous Polish also teaches an adult class at the class of students have been modern dance, try the polka Hartford group of dancers, high school one night a week in formed at the Windsor Locks change, you'll like it. My Polish known as "Gwiazda," and yoga and aerobatics. Alice said Polish Home, the Knights of mother-in-law would agree. danced in Hartford and at the this type of exercise, keeps the New York World's Fair during body in shape and is also the sixties. At the fair the group informational as to proper foods won their share of trophies in and other healthful hints for the exhibitions of the popular 'polka. body beautiful. One of Alice's fondest memories Bonnie, 17, is a senior at the of her own dancing' career was high'school. She has·a part in the the Pulaski Day Parade in musical ., Hello Dolly" this Hartford a few years ago when weekend. Eileen at '14 is a she engineered the building of a freshman at the high school. ' float with a World's Fair theme. Jason,' six, a kindergarten It earned one of her many student at the North Street personal trophies, and it was­ School, was born with a spinal further enjoyable because two of bidfa. The young cowboy has had ner children participated in the several operations and Alice said annual parade. her son started to dance when he Naturally, her dancing was saw his sisters, and even mother delayed during her motherly and father tripping the light duties and speaking of the fantastic, and decided to try his , children, seven of them, Allan, luck, braces and all. His giant 23. is the oldest, and along with playing,the drums,' he inherited the ~ g'riuii:lflitner's· !gift fof ;th'e acc&dlon. Dennis;'2t

e " Herb had some time out for the "Cabbages and K lDgS Korean War, from 1950· to ·1953 for many years, dealing in With as a U.S. Army Signal Corps refrigeration and- air condition­ linesman. He saw duty at the ing, the industrial and com­ Jack RedInond famous 38 parallel dividing line, mercial type. Panmunjom, site of the truce I asked Herb if he would be a HERB STEARNS talks following the United Na­ spectator at the big pin bowling DUCK PINKING tions police action. at Bradley? He said, "I never It probably would be con­ High school days were at enjoy watching a match, I want to sidered rather ironic that when Arlington, Mass. where he excel­ be part of the action. " No Herb Stearns was interviewed led in baseball and basketball. arguments 'there Herb, you're only a few blocks away the kings Bowling had not yet captured his the real player type of individual. of the big-pin bowling world were fancy. When he was a young He did say in all fairness that if knocking down the pins at ballplayer his favorite team was he was younger he might Bradley Bowl. the Boston Red Sox, and favorite consider hitting the big pins Windsor Locks has its own player was the great Ted because of the more professional king ... king of the ducks ... easy Williams. As Herb expressed it, status attached to it these days going Herb. Herb bowls over the "Ever since I could hold a bat or with the lucrative television and pin with the smaller ball and: put on a glove, I've been a Sox big .money prizes on the tour. said the big pins "didn't appeal fan." Being in the Boston area he He'd advise the parents of young to him" and feels there is a grew to admire Bob Cousy, the . athletes to have them practice at greater challenge in the good old Holy Cross team, and the famed golf, baseball or bowling where ducks. Celtics on the court, whenever, the big dollars are waiting for the Herb, a native of Cambridge, they played at the big Boston future stars. Massachusetts, got his start in Garden. He mentioned the duck pin bowling by participating in the When he's not bowling three followers do have two tours, the . popular game of candle pins. The nights a week he enjoys music, of Tri-State of Connecticut, Rhode candle pin is almost cylindrical the record kind, and proudly says Island and Massachusetts and and the bowler throws with a he has many of the old favorite 78 ;the Duck Pin Bowlers Profession­ smaller ball. variety in his collection. He's also al Association. This tour includes It wasn't until Herb moved to a stamp collector. Herb has been bowlers from New England and the Nutmeg State with the little employed by Melso of Hartford the southern cities' of Washing­ wife, Doris Long of Watertown of ton, D.C. and Baltimore. These the Bay State (they were mamed two cities have always been duck in 1954) he tried his bowling arm pin interest centers. in the duck pin world. And his He remembers well a few' of arm was just right and he's one the big names in the Connecticut of the better ones in the world of Duck Pin World, and two of them ducks. Herb sports.,an average of are still hitting the pins, Nick 138.0 and ranks fourth in the Tronsky and Harry Peters. I state and 24th nationally. recalled Jack White, known as At a recent match Herb hit his the New Haven Expres5 a few own personal high single of 222 years back, and Herb said he and a 544 triple. For the record recalled his name and many watchers, the world record in bowling feats. duck pins for a single game is EPILOG 265 (a woman with a 109 average Herbert P. Stearns, who finds has the mark) and world triple "bowling in league play fun and high is 563. Herb has a few tours just great" is a quiet records to shoot at· and from all person in his living room but is a reports one of these nights at tiger on the bowling lanes.' His Glastonbury Bowl, or the local wife~ Doris, sports a respectable Villa Rose lanes, the world record p3 average and with hel may fall to the local bowler. husband enjoys bowling witt He's always working at his folks like Danice Lownds, Ernie game and like all bowlers the Scavatto and Rod Larner. Whel1 pins fall sometimes better than the bowling season is over the other attempts. Herb is in three Stearns have found the time to leagues, the Glastonbury Mixed visit Bermuda, Hawaii, Florida Foursome and the Tri-County and California. But, when the Leaguf?, also performed at bowling season rounds again Glastonbury. One of the nights Herb and Doris can be, found Herb can be found at the Villa hitting the pins with consistency Rose where in 1969 he broke 200 and enjoyment. That's what life for the first time at the Spring is all about, kids. Street emporium and 203 at that.

HERB STEARNS -Two Reviews - BY JACK REDMOND "Indescribably .Delicious" ... Merrick" production, Jim. David Bursztyn as the comical Barnaby. only' way to characterize the Bongiorni, the maestro, sans the Janet Briere and Carla Des­ "Hello, Dolly" production stag- 'beard, was the man in cha~ge' of chaine were a great pair of hat ed by the Bicentennial Senior musical supervision and J:te was shop singers and dancers. Class of the Windsor Locks High in control of every . musical Kenneth Woodhouse and his School. minute.' girlfriend, of the crying delight- Broadway came to Windsor "Hello, Diana," part two... ful part, Deborah Jalbert, were a 'Locks on Saturday (April 3) and petite Diana Runde. Not petite in duo of amusing charactgers. we really feel we were at the her portrayal of the self-styled duo of amusing characters. Wintergarden in New York City. matchmaker. She's the skater Bonnie Nesteruk was a riot ... The production had a touch of the turned into singer, dancer and and a pretty one at that. The ;magic of Broadway. The kids actress right before your eyes. main players were the back­ ,were good. ~iss Runde controls the action of ground for Miss Runde and it all , The music, the staging and. the show just as Dolly .Gallaher came out just great. direction was breathtaking. The . Levi was supposed to according We all felt the finale was just :musical sounds we all know and to Thornton Wilder's play, ClThe wonderful, and the singing of all love, and frankly ,still get a Matchmaker." She accomplished the songs at the. end. was worth charge· out of, and even'· sing . the mischievous ends intended the price of admission .. 1 probably along~ to' the parking lot. A real by the author., . wasn't the only one singing on good sign, even if we can't sing. Horace Vandergelder, the man the way to the parking lot. ". The changing of the scenes was Dolly is after, was played by I personally felt a closeness 'handled -in a very professional Michael Thibodeau, a truly fine because of my recent· interviews manner . and totally with the singer and actor.; , with Miss Runde and Dave audience in mind. The direction, ,Richard Broome, the Charles Bongiorni. The show is worth the 'real pr~of behind any Nelson Reilly part on Broadway, seeing again and again and superior performance, was' under is indeed a thespian of the higher again. ' the leadership of Robert Rossi, ,level, and ,like Mike Thibodeau, ' This Friday and Saturday who also has the staging added to puts himself. into the role.. (April 9 and 10) will be the final his credits. The producer' was Richard complemented the good editions of the high school James C. Gatto, a real "David pixie, performance of William classic. Don't miss it ... there's a lot of Broadway right here in Windsor Locks. uHello, Dolly," the high s'chool play, made the auditoriu~ throb with vitality.

c.ier. Janet Briere, the Widow M ~lIoy, and Carla Deschaine, Minnie Fay, added their talents to making the song uEI egance, " one of the evening's brightest '.'HELLO, DOLLY!"· A'Revlew ./ The Bicentennial Senior Class numbers . Congratulations arei'n-ordertol The bumbling antics of Corne· of Windsor Locks has proven Robert Rossi for his fine direction! lius and Barnaby, played by they are capable of carrying on and to Mr. James C. Gatto the: Richard Broome and William producer. All of the details in the tradition of excellence in the Burtztyn, kept the audience staging a production were carried musical theater with their pro­ amused as they popped out of out well. The set, programs, duction of "Hello, Dolly!" by their downstairs storeroom and properties, posters and costumes Michael Stewart with lyrics and counted their m 0 n e y. Mr. all take so much time and can music by. Jerry Herman. The Broomes' son'g, "It Only Takes A make or break a show. musical, based on the play~ "The . Moment" demonstrated that he Let us not forget Ms. Marietta Matchmaker," by Thornton Wil­ could really sing with "the best Miano the choreographer. She der, opened its four day run of , em." must have a magic wand to Friday April 2, and will again be Bonnie Nesteruk was just what transform mere students into seen Friday and Saturday, April her cameo dancers. The waiters Gallop was 9 and 10. the Yenta ordered in part of Ernestina Money. .The great. Heading the large cast is lovely Bicentenial Senior Class of Diana Runde as Dolly Levi, the part was originally for a fat ~1r1: I liked it better the way she did It; Windsor Locks . High School, I durable' marriage broker, and as a fast girl. salute you. You have brought a Michael Thibodeau as the tight­ James Saletnick as Rudolph, bit of Broadway al}d the fisted feed and grain man from Richard Dombrowski, the judge, performing arts to our town that the Yonkers, Horace Vandergel­ and Daniel Wawruck, the court will not soon be forgotten. der. Although the parts called for clerk, rounded out the welJ Performance time is 8:15 p.m., actors much older, after a period polished cast. Friday and Saturday evening, of adjustment you can easily It is a puzzle to me with all of April 9 and 10. forget their age and get on with the vocal talent that is evidenced the story line. Ms. Runde danced Richard A. Sterner, in these musicals, that Windsor and sang with all of the ease that Locks doesn't have a mixed vocal I expected of her, and she looked group during the rest of the year. absolutely smashing in her many Class of 77, 78, and 79, take note, lovely costumes. when you got it, as you obviously Kenneth Woodhouse and Deb­ have. Use it. orah Jalbert were perfect as The band, under the direction Ambrose and Ermengarde, the of David Bongiorni, was top­ notch. dancing some fancy steps to the music when doing' her household duties. For nine years she was a dance student and even her dancing went from modern jazz to creative foot work. THE WINDSOH LOCKS JOURNAL. THURSDAY. APRIL 15. 1976 One of her hobbies is to refinish furniture and with Walter's help, the handym'an e " around the house, proudly "Cabbages and KlDgs exhibits the handiwork in the With living room. There is still more to this lady, she is a writer of short Jack Redtnond 'stories and poems. Joyce attend­ ed the Asnuntuck Community JOYCE WOJTAS, DIRECIRESS College in Enfield to gain CIVIL PREPAREDNESS additional writing technique. She Mrs. Joyce Wojtas, a bundle of admits her only hero, besides energy, was appointed Director Walter, is Hemingway the (Directress is a female director •.. writer ... admiration would be a but in this day and age ..• )of Civil wiser choice of word than hero. Preparedness by First Selectman This active woman is no Edward Savino last fall. woman's libber. She feels "wo­ If Joyce has her way the town men are as capable as many men of Windsor, Locks will be fully in certain fields of endeavor," prepared for whatever disaster or but it ends there. In the emergency old Mother Nature or important field of civil prepared­ man has in store tomorrow or ness Joyce is not an alarmist .•. anytime in the near future. Her she "hopes we never have to use devotion to her new position the facilities, but we should be comes out loud and clear and in prepared." 'She added, "Every­ Joyce has been emplQyed spite of all the government red at one cannot be involved in this the Windsor Locks Town tape is progressing nicely. In Hall for type of work, but everyone the past six years and her years past women \Vere not current should be aware if disaster ever job is clerk for the considered for such lofty ranks of Board of strikes our town." Assessors. She has, on prestigious status. She is only the occasion~ To further explain her role and worked for fourth female appointed director the., Fire_. M~,r:s.!!all, what she hopes to achieve (from BUiidi'ng'Inspe'ctor of this type in the state - an~,!o~.~ ',~... the Department of Defense, of period :w.otked Connecticut's 169 towns. 'ev'e"ing;s .. a~ .,the.' "Standards for Civil Prepared­ , secretary for the As for some vital statistics, Zoni~g Board of ness.)" The role of the Civil Appeals under Joseph Becker. Joyce, born and educated in In Preoaredness Director is crucial, addition to the Civil Prepared­ Windsor Locks, is the wife of but "is not that of a "commander" ness and role at the town Walter J. Wojtas, and ....ther o( hall or director of operating forces. Joyce is secretary for the two children. The "dest is During emergencies, the director committee for the Community Stephan, 11, a student at the acts as principal aide or advisor Picnic on May 31 as part North Street School, who plays of th~ fo the chief executive. His or her gigantic Little League, and because of a Bicentennial celebration. major responsibility. is to assure I nere are many faucets recent skiing injury was unable to coordination among the opera­ to Joyce Wojtas. when participate in the LaTorra-Matte­ she is not ting departments of government, busy at town work one of her sen sixth grade basketball court with nongovernmental groups favorite pasttimes is listening to battle with the Maryland team. ;~~h hospitais all types of music, longhair to ai' an.d m~dical Young Stephan greeted my prores,SIOnaJs. and with higher popular. She even admits arrival at the North Street to and adjacent governments." residence of the Wojtas famiiy with a request to sign his newly EPILOG won cast on his leg. The youngest Joyce Wojtas is a person member of the clan is Danielle, 8, involved in the civil preparedness also a member of the North of Windsor Locks. When the Street School program, who has smoke clears and time permits. taken dancing lessons for young Joyce and Walter and the two ladies and a fling at gymnastics. kids find the "quietest place we Walter is a former U.S. Army can find" for a vacation spot. She veteran with a tour of duty was born and raised in town and including the famed Honor 1,"likes working here" 'and feels a Guard in our nation's capitol. His n'ocial pb~igation to the town and last assignment was the funeral ithe Citizens, and works at it all for the late President John F. the time. Kennedy. Joyce Zenzick married . The late Charles Lindbergh Walter in 1961 while he was in expressed his feelings on survi­ the service. After his discharge val and I'm sure Joyce would' the two settled in Windsor Locks, agree ... "I believe that for their home town. permanent survival, man must balance science with other qualities of life, qualities of body and spirit as well as those of mind qualities he cannot develop when he lets mechanics and luxury insulate him too greatly from the earth to which he was born." He was off and running and hitting. Each year Jack progres­ sed to a higher classification in THE WINDSOR LOCKS JOURNAL. THURSDAY, APRIL 22, 1976 league status and as every rookie knew then; .. "uack east" is the place to play for fame and "Cabbages and Kings" fortune. But he was to pay his With dues first, and indeed he did ..• as a raw newcomer he went to Jack Redtnond Victoria in the Western interna­ (bases full of Colonels), playing tional League (Class A). It was all the 154 games, and knocking his first break in the performance I asked Jack many questions-. in 141 runs with a lesser amount field as he led the league in concerning his years with base­ of hits, 136. As Casey would homeruns and runs batted in for ball. Here are his frank and say ... "You could look it up." the 1947 season. , candid replies. Do you have a The New York Giants (now the Leo and his Giants needed favorite team now? .... Baltimore. San Francisco club) as most some pitching help at the end of Do you listen to the games on major league teams are on the the '52 season. The Giants ~ad radio and TV? ... As time per­ look for fresh talent. The big city won in '51, per Mr. Thomson, mits, follow all the teams iu the team sent their West Coast and wanted the flag again. Mr. papers. Best Pitcher... Whitey scout, former basebaUplayer, Harshman, the pitcher, not the Ford of the Yankees, was able to Dutch Ruethur, to see if this hitter, was called up to the Big set up the hitters, had great young Jack Harshman could Apple. Jack said it was the worst control. Top man age r ... Paul make it at the famed Polo time to be called because he had Richards, most capable. great Grounds in "Fun City." He was contracted a terrible cold and no instructor, especially with the signed to 2l Giant contract and way was he ready for duty at the pitchers. On superstars ... Mickey sent to the Jersey City club in the Polo Grounds. Faith, for a time Mantle was the super player, International for 1948. Jack was with him. Rains came and strongest performer he played remembers he had a "fair year" the game was called off. He got against. What about a baseball hitting .270. The Giants, in those the extra day rest and so did Robin hero? ....Ted Williams. Ted was days, also had a farm in Roberts. The Phillies won 2-0 and unjustly criticized by the press. Minneapolis of the American Roberts won his 28th of the He's a man's man. Ted had the Association. Jack went north­ season. Jack was back in best bat control and bat west, but only for the season of Nashville for the 1953 season. technique in baseball. Is reserve '49. The fortunes of war and baseball. clause good or bad for baseball? Finally in 1950 Jack saw the For the next four seasons •.. There's definitely a necessity light of day and the big league Jack toiled in the American for the owners to protect their with' the parent team and League for the Chicago White investment. manager Leo Durocher. Leo is Sox and manasers Paul Richards Are today's stars paid too from Springfield, Mass. As Jack (the '76 new Sox head), Marty much? ... A player should be From the sandlots of San explains it ... "Leo, just to be Marion and AI Lopez. DUring his compensated for his ability; Diego, Calif. to the big league different, ,or jUst to be Leo, windy city stay Jack won 48 however, today the salaries are baseball parks, with a few stops started the season with five games and lost 34. ' unreal. Joe Fan has to pay the in-between, was the magic carpet untested rookies in his lineup and , The 1956 seas~n' : ~a!t the bills. If the trend continues, it trip of John ElVin Harshman. said, 'Come Hell or high water, highpoint for 'Hiin with'a 'rS~l1 will certainly hurt the structure of Better known as Jack ...especially I'm going with the rookies.''' record. In 1958' 'he was trad~d the game~ to the many baseball fans who Leo wasn't always right or to Baltimore and Richards where Do you miss the fanfare· and followed the national pasttime wrong, but I guess the water got he managed 12 victories. The fame? .. .I missed it for a while from 1950 to 1960; too high in the New York press, 1959 ~c!ason found him starting but due to my injury I knew my Jack and his wife, Lillian, a the kids did not make it and Leo with the Orioles, going north to playing days were over. I always Baltimore girl, now can be found was no genius after all. The club New England and the Red Sox for knew, even as a kid, I would working diligently, and with lost most of the games at the a few months and ending the make the big leagues in time, it great patience, at the Connecti­ start of the season and in New year with the Cleveland Indians. was my dream and it came true. cut State Receiving and Study York you have to be a winner. An injury closed out his career EPILOG Home just across the river in History has proven this to be true with Cleveland during ~he 1960 John Elvin Harshman, a name Warehouse Point. in the long run ... the great years year. For the records. Jilek won in the records of baseball, came 'Jack, 'still lean and trim of winning for McGraw, McCar­ 69 and lost 65. Being an ex:hitter east to perform on tbe diamond, enough 'to go nine innings thy, Stengel, et ai, to prove a from way back, he hit 21 homers has settled for a time, far from against the Yankees, has been point. Someone had to go, Leo in the majors, a good feat for any the spotlights of Boston and employed at the home for nearly didnt ... Jack did. He was shipped hurler. ' Baltimore, in East Windsor. He's six years. back to Minneapolis and ended now using his talents in a His baseball career started at the season at an even lower level different field with his wife and the high school level in his home with Jacksonville of the Sally 14·year-old daughter, Jackie. town. As a student, he had a League. He was paying his dues. The field is called child care, and tryout with the San Diego Padres Jack spent 1951 in Nashville. he's really back in the big of the Pacific Coast League. The This was the year of the Bobby leagues .... to all those kids. year was 1945 and Jack's Thomson miracle homer against baseball participation had to wait the Dodgers. When history was for a year due to Uncle Sam's being made Jack was down south Navy having first call. It wasn't setting a few records of his own. long, Jack got his wish and break Namely, hitting six grand slams in the Abner Doubleday sport. He was signed up by the Modesto team of the California State League~ The Bravakis family. are, THE WINDSOR l.OCKS .I0URNAL.'rtiURSPA Y. APRIL 29., 1l)1b When asked how someone career at UConn. He' played on Ken~e~y, fans.~eo has: admired starts in his business of running the var,sity for three years and the late President and CarolYI\; the long miles Carolyn said, 1'1 reached the pinnacle of all was a Robert Kennedy follower. wanted ~o surprise my brother." conege baseball. the collegian Speaking 'Qf respecting certain ~Cabbages and Kings" Her brother, Dr. Robert Mc­ World Series. The year was 1965 individuals. Leo said he would Carthy, of Middletown, a runner and the series was pJayed .in be remiss if he didn't mention With of some. note, having run in the Omaha, Nebraska. Leo recalls the man who most' influenced his Boston:event five times,;was the trip and said, "It was a very' career in sports, his high school: .Tack .Redntond surpri~ed when Carolyn won her rewarding experience.," The basebaII coach John DiNunzio of fi.rst race last July in her native pitching corps of UConn, of Middletown:. While at UConn, city. The race was six and a!half which· Leo was one of the Leo, knew two of the foot balI mil~s 'long. arid Carolyn had; ~nly mainstays, had the best earned coaches. who are now head been running for 'a month b~fore' run average. of any college team football'coaches in the National 'herinitial competition:' In August' in the country. The team won the FootbaII League, Rick Fassano 6f she entered the difficult Portland fifth berth in the tournament and the Detroit Lions and Leo Holtz of to Middletown grind. It w,as' a Leo remembers seeing Sal the New York Jets. rainy day and it rained aU over Bando, Rick Monday and Reggie Leo keeps busy in the teac~ing her parade. 'She waSi not Jackson. Arizona State perform­ end of his life as 'the vice disheartened and 197~ found her ing ,and were all major leaguers president of the East' Windsor at practice running for the before their time. Teachers Association. He said, Connecticut :AAU Marathon., On Because of his fine pitching at when asked about children's March 7, Carolyn finisqed second college Leo wa:s offered a behavior at school, "They are running the 26. miles, .385 yards look-see by the New York growing up too fast. -Not in the time of three hours, 16 Yankees but an injury prevented necessarily physical, but their minutes· ahd 47 seconds. The him of any hopes of a vocation at mental outlook. The lack of second place of the woman the famed stadium. respect for autho"rity Is unbe- , entries was enough for C~rolyn to The male part of the B.ravakis Iievable. There's too much keep at ' it until an injury family is still an avid follower of permissiveness in the society and hampered p rae tic e sess­ lill sports and when spring and it is reflected by the studenHs LEO, CAROLYN AND ions. She's on the mend and summer comes he can be found attitud~in class." Carolyn and SEAN MAKES THREE running as time permits. If you in action as an umpire at high teo agreed it was up to the Take two teachers. one a see a lovely thin girl running by school and colIege games all over parents to instill respect in their former baseball pitcher. now your house these days, watch her the state. He's been wearing the own children. turned umpire. the other a but also hook up your dog. black togs for ten years and is the Ten days ago, with the heat in female long distance harrier ,i and Carolyn has as much trouble with Hartford Chapter president of the ni'nety degreerang~, Carolyn, a cute little rascal named S~an the canine set as I the local the Connecticut Umpire Associa­ made the trip to Boston and and you have the Bravakis family mailman.' tion. The State Board of Umpires finished \ the grueling 26-mile of Pershing Road. . The only running Leo ever was recently voted him' their v;,ce marathon along the streets' of Leo and Carolyn are ~oth good at ~as on the paths of the president. When asked about a Beantown. She said many of the active in their respective fields of Middletown high school dia­ sport hero, Leo gave an answer' .viewers gave encouragement and endeavor, he the c1assroo~, mond. He also excelled at not heard too often, umpire Tom .some even used their garden diamond or running a twenty-sIx footban and basketbaU at the Gorman of the National League. hoses to wet down the hot and mile race. Both are natives of middle Connecticut school to tired runners. Just to finish the Middletown, Connecticut, grad­ round out his fine three sport race is quite an accomplishment uates of the' University of career. He entered the University for this young woman who just Connecticut with teaching de­ of Connecticut the same year as wanted to surprise her brother. grees. Leo is currently at the Ea~t his childhood sweetheart, Caro­ She probably surprised a great Windsor ; Middle School. HIS lyn McCarthy, and they both many of the veteran track female counterpart is a former graduated in 1965. The young enthusiasts. English teacher at the local high couple were married after earn­ school. "She was also an educator ing their degrees .. in East Windsor for two years Leo had a colorful baseball and now substitutes in the Windsor Locks school system. She manages to find time for the art of running several miles a day on the streets and hills of town ·Marathon keeping in shape for any eventuality, especially· the Bos­ ton Marathon. More Than A Sport

By PAM ROBBINS

Could Win I doubt that more' than 10 of the 1,898' runners thought they could win it, but I think I know. why. the rest of them ran in that scorching sun, calves knot- ted like aged oaks. '. I~ has something to do with courage a~d Will and stamina, with bodies pitted against theIr own limits and their own pain. . '. When the marathon has been run and the blIs­ ters heal and muscles uncoil, each runner wears ,a private laurel wreath-the knowledge that they said they could and would-and they did. Superior Electric Company. Tom spent two years in Germany with the U.S. Army. Betty Jane, 24, attended the University of Connecticut and THE WINDSOR LOCKS JOURNAL, THURSDAY, MAY 6,1976 has a degree in Special Educa­ tion. She is working in Colorado, and is only miles from her sister Patti. "Cabbages and ,Kings" Jackie, 26, is an Industrial Arts With Major at Central Conn. State College. Jack Redntond Ken, 23, will 'graduate from the University of Connecticut this MARGARET LINEHAN COLU month, is listed in "Who's Who A MOTHER FOR ALL SEASONS in American 'Colleges and Uni­ A, woman with many' children versities and recently was elected recently was asked what qualitYI to Phi Beta Kappa. Ken serVed in 'she most admired in her the U.S. Army as a Military husband. Said she: uModera­ Policeman. He was on the 1971 tion." Windsor Locks soccer state Margaret Linehan Colli, m'o~h­ champions team. er of ten active children, would Judy, 21, is a junior at UConn, now probably say the same for and is majoring in Physical her husband, Assistant Fire In all fairness, I inquired of Education. Chief John R. Colli. Margaret Mrs. Coui the name,s and ages of Johm, 18, attends Springfeld and Jack have been married for the children. Jack, I'm told, has a Tech Community College and his over thirty years, and with their convenient list in his wallet of al1 major is Fire Technfcian. John is children, ages 30 to 13, have the vital statistics if any wise guy a part of the town's Civil EPU.OG never shown moderation in, their dares' him to name them all in Preparedness program of the fire Margaret Colli, a mother like a love, understanding, frien<;lship chronological order. Mrs. Colli, department. mother should be .... has love for and all-around togetherness. spoke their names and ages with Peggy, 16, isajunioratthehigh her children and I beUe,ve I once remarked the beauty of pride, and other pertinent school, and the young man of the summed it all ,up by saying, interviewing was meeting the information was supplied by family, David, 13, is a seventh "Enjoy your children." She's a nicest kind of people. The CoUi everyone in the living room. grader at the Middle School. Mother For All Sessons, and family, and even their lovable , So, here goes. Kathy,' 30, is David, recently broke, his leg proves the axiom of the American dog, Opie, extendedthe welcome now Mrs. Steve Wassel uk. Steve, being a good scout, Boy Scout 'Flag, Motherhood and apple pie maf at their family-size home on Kathy and the grandparent's that is. are the best. Sunday is Mother's Elm Street. In a few minutes' I pride and joy, little Susan at five The Colli family has kept the Day ... remember her, honor her, was made to feel at home by months, make their home in military service and the college don't forget her ... mothers are mother and father Colli. A few of nearby Cromwell. Kathy is a enrollment busy for many years special, God Bless them. their brood were in attendance, former U.S. Army Nurse and she and the children's records are anxious to find out just what this spent a year and a half in war tom worthy of any young group of this reporter would ask their favorite Vietnam. She was a member 'of a or any generation. ' mother. I M* A *S*H unit and said the We mustn't forget dear old •••••••••••••• Any woman with ten offsprings television show of the same name ,dad. Jack Colli has been an active deserves to be a Mother For All is only a takeoff, and not really :fireman for 2S years and is Seasons. true as to the medical units in the ,secretary of the Fire Commis- Would you believe Margaret field. / sion. He's a member of the local Colli was an only child. She was Patti, 29, is a graduate of American Legion, the Suffield born in Haydenville, Massa­ Central' Connecticut College, . Sportsman Club and many state chusetts. Mrs. Colli said the town with a teaching degree. She is and regional oil, stnd firemen's is on the m'ap and is a part of now in Colorado and has hopes of organizations. J, £ is employed ,Williamsburg. After high school being an educator in the western by Mercury Oil iroffethersfield. at WilJiamsburg, Miss Linehan state. Mrs. Colli, ac ~ tding to' Jack, entered St. Joseph's College in Thomas, 27, is a graduate of is a fine cook, and with her large West Hartford. She was employ­ Hartford State Technical School family and numerous house ed . at Hartford Hospital as a and is currently employed by guests would be expected to have Medical Social Worker and in the green culinary hand for mlinS married Jack Colli, a the plates at the large table. 1944 ., ... : ...... ' .... . Windsor Locks native. Jack When the family desires to get served in the U.S. Navy during away for awhile, Vermont, the big war and after the end of Wyoming"California" and. locally. the celebration of victory the the Point of Woods in Connecti­ young couple set up house in cut have been their retreats from Wethersfield and then New York the hustle and bustle of their City until the first of the Colli busy home. Mrs. Colli, always children arrived on the scene. the gracious hostess, said, They moved to Windsor I Locks "Everyone is ,welcome at our and their Elm Street residence home" and from all reports a has seen the children grow up great many of the children have from the oldest, Kathy, to the friends who will attest to these youngest, David. statements. Someone added, "There's a relaxed feeling" at the Colli home. Jack said, "Everyone "eaves, but everyone returns." No tribute could be nicer. I THE WINDSOR LOC~URNAL. THURSDAY. MAY 13. 1976 At the end of the gridiron season the boosters have re­ '.w.~r~~~ all the!} player~i .,~ith a banquet and have been fortunate "Cabbag~s and Kings" to have Governor Ella Grasso and , With the Yale football coach, Carmon Cozza, at their head tables. Jack, ,Redmond The club, according to the Roys, has functioned for the betterment of the town, school i,can Legion ball and is currently and, especially, the youthful on the JV, baseball team as a players, who wanted to play catcher. In the fall. Dennis football. The Roys agreed that spends his time playing center on the sport being played isn't, as the football team so his folks can important as what the kids can watch him in action. learn from the Sullivans and One of the Roy's< favorite Scelzas. In other words, be it pasttimesis running the teenage soccer, football, baseball or dances at the KofC hall. It's all basketball, the playing is good part of the' Booster Club's way of for the boys and girls. helping the kids.· Anothe~ pro­ We think we know what makes gram Paul Roy gets a charge out kids tick. What about the Roys. of is chairman of the KofC dance It's probably the steady Maine and party after the 'graduation of and French influence instilled in high school seniors until the wee them as youngsters back in hours of the morning. PAU~'AND RITA ROY Sanford that gave them the idea The faces of Rita and Paul have FOOTBALL BOOSTERS to do something special 'for always been· seen behind the When "you 'think of spring, students. . counters of the refreshments at baseball comes to mind. When They met in hi'gh Ischool when the Babe Ruth and American you think of fall, Paul and Rita Paul excelled in baseball, basket­ Legion baseball games. And Roy and football come to mind. ball and football, and she was a many times Paul has worked The Roys have been boosters cheerleader. Rita said her hus­ handing out the soda after a full of Windsor Locks football for band was an exceptional pitcher night's work at Pratt and several years and even' in ihis and after high schoQI played Whitney. Many a pizza and soda sunny springtime they didn't some twilight ball with the local treat was given at the Roy home. mind one bit expounding on their college kids. 'I' It was just their way of favorite topic. Paul is the silent type, expressing their thanks to t~,e\ In 1971, some of the local however, makes up for this kids. These are just plain folks Raider rooters of all sports coolness by his action around who feel "most. kids are good. wanted to I break into the town. All of his sport activity was Give them responsibility and it forbidden territory of only 'soccer highlighted by Rita. She is ,very will pay off. It is rewarding." I .' in the fall by hoping for a footban proud of her man of over twenty Paul has been an active man team at the high school. But years and jumps .into all the behind the scene at the KofC and tradition is tradition. But the action in town just as she did on Wednesday nights h~ bowls Roys are the Roys. They knew when they were' students in with his brother Knights. The enough active individuals in town Sanford. Roys always journey up to would help organize a club to Speaking of Sanford, the Roys Maine. Rita loves to visit her two booster football and start. a were born in this mill town. It grandmothers whose ages are 92 football tradition. And 1l10ve they was, a town geared to inanufac­ and 91 ~ears young. Fr~nch is the did in a traditional way .. turing of wearing apparel, language of the visit and even The Roys provided the neces­ notably the famous brand, "Palm when Rita calls on her mother, on sary stimulant with a program Beach", but due to various Old County Road, French is whereby parents and other economic conditions the bottom spoken and heing bilingual is interested citizens could help fell out of the industry. Rita and necessary to stay with the coach Pat Scelza get things off Paul decided to come south to conversation. the ground. With the assistance greener pastures and Windsor EPILOG of, the local Jaycees,' who had Locks has been greener. How­ Rita and Pa~l Roy, born in sponsored a midget football ever, there's still a lot of love for Maine, residents of Windsor team, the Roys made the first Maine whenever they talk of the Locks, Are always mindful of the step and the fruits of their labor old home. For the past two kids. I want to thank Mrs. Robert has paid off these past few years. decades Paul has been employed Farmer for her suggestion to Since the beginning the club has at Pratt and Whitney in East interview the Roys. Mrs. Farmer provided two scholarships each Hartford and Rita has worked at mentioned the Roys' unselfish year to worthy players. In the Hamilton Standard, on and off, deeds performed and felt it was summer months the boys spend a for eleven years. Their two worth telling. It was. Kind words week at Suffield Academy children. Suzanne 20, and Dennis from a friend are always the best getting into shape for the fall 18. were both born in Maine. Rita kind. season. ' would travel down east at the The Roys· give their time. proper time so her babies could Someone wrote that ... "Time is have their first breath 'Of life in too slow for those who wait, too beautiful Maine. swift for thos~,wQoJt;ar"tp.QJOJlg_ Suzanne is at the Deaconess for those who grieve, too short Hospital School of Nursing in for those who rejoice, but for Boston. Dennis is a junior at the those who love, time is eternity." local high school. He has played Little League. Babe Ruth. Amer- THE WINDSOR l.OCKS JOURNAl.. THllRSI)AY, MA Y 20, 1976

"Cabbages and Kings" , With Jack Redmond BIRTHDA Y OF A COLUMN or have lived in this town on the THE WINDSOR LOCKS BEAT Connecticut River for twelve ,"The time has come, the years and we feel this has to be a walrus said ... " convenient town. Oh, I know we What a difference a year have problems. What town or makes. city in America doesn't? Down­ Last May "Cabbages and town isn't finished, Bradley Field Kings" appeared in the Journal is noisy at times, Route 91 is for its baptism and it seems jam-up at seven and five, but fitting and appropriate for a few what highway in America isn't? lines from the guy with the But it is convenient, Windsor writer's itch. by way of an Locks, that is, between Boston, anniversary column and a printed New York City. Hartford and Springfield, thank you to Windsor Locks and take your pick. We have all the different people I've met. the airport to the world, the best "Cabbages and Kings" has of two worlds, and we can't Joe complain run the risk of being unable to Urso, a knight of a nice on the tax rate either. .guy; the Look come up with an interview each always busy Lions ... Cliff. on the bright side (sounds Randall. Moe Goldfarb like an editorial). week, but a name or names will and John This is not a i~e. Jim. Rumbold, money ridden pop up and the cabbage or king with his New York City, a three hates; Mrs. crowded Hong or queen, depending on one's Pane, still the Kong. AU the prettiest eJerk around; business in town point of· view. makes the Mrs. Ruth is on the McKenna, a real perimeter (Harold deadline. We started with Mr. nice lady; Bob Heintz told me Creech, Sr., the that, and you Nice Guy ... Chief Bill ReiJIy and real American know, he's from Muskogee; right) ... Route 75, last week those lovers of football, Ron Storms, North Street lawyer and sportsman; and then Main Mr. and Mrs. Paul Roy,' and can't Street. Was it forget the political planned that completed the lfirst year' of talk with Ed way? There must be interviews. '. , Savino, BiI) Leary, Con O'leary, a great many unsung architects Paul McCarthy, Harold of the town needs who During the twelve months we Heintz did and mustn't forget something right. have asked serious and some· Charlie Rader. Next week the town, who times comical questions and have gave Sport talk with the citizens the world inquired about their birthplace Lou LaTorra, champion. Fran Aniello, George Hall, ship and "Hel/o, Dolly!" will (no~ birthday), schooling, any Russ be Mattesen,: Bob celebrating their part of service time, hobbies, and any O'Connor and the good old Doc Lingua ..• weU American Bicentennial. The men items of interest (we hope> to you know all the. names. and women in charge,. and their give .the readers a palatable Bilt how about the good scouts ... Howard committees. deserve· aU your synopsis of the person or persons White and Ed Sabotka and the cooperation and if you love to being quizzed. I'll have to "Music Man," Dave Bongiorni. dance, see a parade, or go to a admit ... you can meet the nicest To paraphrase the old picnic .•. join in the fun. people on the Windsor Locks tele­ vision show, "There must It's a great town ••. support beat. You gain an insight in be whaf 15,000 stories it ... and thanks again all makes people tick. in the airport you At least the town." cabbages and kings. ticking in :Windsor Locks. We Thanks to Dotty Gill and even talked to a few sports her Valentine story, my life is now an celebrities just to break the spell. open book (PG, I hope.) While Just to shake up your on 'the subject of that hard working memory ... the local folks included crew at the Journal. .. also would some of the following: the like to thank Mrs. Lee, Milly sincerity of the late Joseph Coyle and old faithful, George Quinn. The dedication of Mrs. Wallace, for their assistance Enid Shea; the happy faces of during my first year on the beat. Grace and Nick Ruggiero; the Like Dotty said, we Redmonds eagerness of Kathy and Mike Heneghan; the youngness of Diana Runde and Jay Caron. And the one who really is young at heart ... Mrs. Evelyn Williams. The beauty of Alice Levesque, Bob Oliva ... truly a native son; Joe Fiore .. the "salt of the earth." BICENTENNIAL LANDING' - Crowd views Russian·built jet own· off for Warsaw ed by LOT (Polish after ceremonies. It· stopped here in honor of Na~ional Airlines) Monday, first Polish craft to American Bicentennial. land at Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks. Plane took

THE WINDSOR LOCKS JOURNAL, THURSDAY, MAY 20,1976 LB2!D!:!lnds Here At Bradley To commemorate the Polish­ American Bicentennial observ­ ance the LOT Polish Airlines landed a giant jet at Bradley Field on Monday evening. To the happy beat of some polka music, the cheers of friends and relatives, 168 tourists from the Connecticut V'alley will be making history as the first Polish It was stated at the press, flagship to land at Bradley' conference how the officials of International and leave into the LOT' (meaning flight) Polish night sky for a direct flight to Airlines in Warsaw. in connec-', Warsaw. tion with our Bicentennial Birth­ But before the actual flight, day of 1976. felt it would be the the press and state and local right time to make history and dignitaries were treated to participate in the celebration by culinary delight including the having a Polish aircraft land at famous Polish kielbasa, natural­ Bradley. After all, it was a Polish ly. Windsor Locks was represen.: nobleman who fought and died ted by First Selectman Ed for America's independence .... Savino; Springfield by Mayor Sullivan, the television media by iFrank Knight of Channel 40. and Count Casimir Pulaski. His name Frank Knight. the TV star of ,the 'State of Connecticut by our and picture is on the fuselage as the Polish Dance program, is .own Ella Grasso. who welcomed one enters the large plane. We making his second trip to Poland the PoHsh Airlines in her own all inspected the giant bird. and before he left told my wife congenial style. After the reception the tourists and me that today's date is rather For the first time in the history left for Poland. After 14 days, the significant. The plane landed and of Bradley a jet plane bearing the Polish flagship will return the departed on May 17 ... 76. markings .of J~oland landed here. tourists to Bradley on Memorial To Mr. Knight and the Polish The Pol~sh Airlin~ made prepa~~-' Day, May 31. There are other Airlines ... a happy trip ... and to tions for the' historic ..,. flight' last'. flights planned fOT the trip from say it in the Polish and great summer· at. the request of Ben Connecticut to the Polish leading way ... Na Zdro wie!! 1 Wegiel. who books Polish Ameri­ city. can tours from his travel service in Springfield.