Old Chester, PA: Guest Book entries April 2002 - Part 2
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Name: Pat (male) CHS49
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 11:53:12 PM
Kate: No, I don't know pp and it isn't my intention to offend anyone. Like others, I get bored hearing about Phoenix, AZ. Also, I believe she gets off on irritating people so that she has a chance for a "come-back". It's obviously an EGO thing with her. This is, after all, Chester Community Bulletin Board and that's what I like about it.
Name: Frank Vaul
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 11:47:39 PM
U W Great line: "Don't cry because its over, Smile because it happened". Is it yours?, if so can I use it some time?
Name: Sue Watras
Email: wattsix@aol.com
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 10:56:58 PM
Looking for old classmates from Resurrection?
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS50)
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 10:50:45 PM
I noticed "Jimmy" addressed me as pat mefadden. So, translated, partly in gaelic that means "Me Pat is son/daughter of Little Streamlet." Do you know something I don't? Was my father an Indian? Oh this is interesting. So "pat" could also mean "stroke, gently touch several times." So, oh my gosh, my Indian name then is, "stroke the stream for fish." That answers why, if I could chose the time in history I preferred the most to live in Chester, it would be when it was a fishing village. That makes sense!!! Thank you, Jimmie.
So, Jimmy, do you know in what years Chester was indeed a fishing village? So, this is your big chance to elaborate on Chester's history. Let's hear it.
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 10:47:42 PM
Does anyone remember laying in bed and listening to the fog horns sounding on the river?
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS '50)
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:58:35 PM
George - Forgot to mention that you are the one who brought up the sex issue, not I. Therefore, you bear the burden, you opened the door - I just responded. It's also apparent that grandchildren are not the joy to you that they are to me. Too bad!
Name: Floyd CHS 48
Email: fljftru@aol.com
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:53:47 PM
To Jean: I tried to send you 2 e mails.They were both returned. I have info RE McKinney.Try to mail me
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS50)
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:53:01 PM
George - I will take your suggestions under advisement. Have done so, and was told to ignore you and your lack of humor.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:38:27 PM
Wow, we gals seem to be hot at it.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:37:20 PM
Rudy Pompilli played sax for Bill Hailey. He was one of the best around. He was also a great guy. He lived in parkside.
Name: mike garvey
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:34:44 PM
sorry wilson liner
Name: mike garvey
Email: chesterchevy19061@yahoo
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:29:23 PM
My mother tells me the story of how she met a younge man while on the wison liner going to riverview beach. He and she had sutch a good time that they missed the last boat home and had to take a bus to philly then a bus home to chester. They married and raised a great family in chester. Does anyone know who played sax for Bill Haley ?
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:19:12 PM
I do not believe someone as old as you must be could use a computer, no way
Name: George
Email: gpmalick@wideopenwest.com
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:17:48 PM
Patricia: I think it's best to change the topic, I can't think of a more depressing subject for other folks to read about than your sex life and my alleged ensuing need for Viagra. I notice that you are still having trouble posting messages on this message board and some of them get posted 2 or 3 times. One way to overcome that is when you are done typing, DO NOT click the submit button, click the one to the right of it,,,,George
Name: 'good ole joe'
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:06:22 PM
Were the Four Aces once called The Four Western Aces, and did they not sing CW music at WPWA? I thought me and some of my buddies saw them one saturday morn. many years ago, on horseback doing a 'promo' at the station...the field across the street was still a corn field then, Brookhaven was much smaller then...
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 8:43:03 PM
Chester, As I have said before my mom and dad and myself and younger sister used to walk all the way down to the waterfront in Chester and board the Wilson Line for the midnight dances on board and then when it docked we walked all the way home around 1937. I was never allowed to be rude or disrespectful to anyone older or younger, that is why I always refer to people I am talking to, as Mr or Mrs.People should be kind to each other, God knows we all need to look out for one another. My littleones are all grown up now and I miss them, but they are never far always looking out for us. I remember my two oldest when they were judt old enough to fish the creek by theirselve, everytime they caught a carp , they would run it up to show me, water it with the hose and run it back
Name: Albert Haywood
Email: 36993@udel.edu
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 8:12:23 PM
My mother,Emmajean Barsby, lived in Upland circa 1894 and graduated from Chester High in 1912.She had two brothers-Dr John & Frank a teacher, a sister,Mary.
Name: jimmy
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 7:40:01 PM
pat mefadden" we do not like it...give some other people a chance to elaborate on old chester subjects,,,bug off
Name: kate
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 7:38:45 PM
Hey Patricia, your enimies are now mine, I think....Just tell me what I should lighten up about? LOL
Name: trish
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 7:35:40 PM
lighten up kate........this is not your personal web site even though you think it is
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 7:17:25 PM
Patricia, I was asking Pat(CHS49) not 79, if she knew you, I was curious about her one line comment. I sure do know I can ask you if I want to know anything..!!
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS50)
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 7:09:46 PM
Before anyone asks what my last post has to do with old Chester - I haven't the faintest idea, except that without sex, there wouldn't be an old Chester.
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS50)
Email: pidipat@earthlink.net
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 7:02:52 PM
Now George Malick - you cut that out about my sex life. I think you're younger than me, so you better stock up on Viagra right now, so that when you reach my age, you can at least think you're enjoying what used to come naturally. I always preferred older men - never knew when I reached 70 that an older man would mean a "last gasper"! Ah me, the joys of youth - never forgotten.
To the person whose fingers are tired from scrolling through my posts - try exercising your brain along with your fingers. It's your brain that's tired, not your fingers.
In defense of Kate's statement about being irritated with no names. She is saying exactly what I've been trying to get across for a long time. It's NOT the fact that you are anonymous, it's the fact that you feel more comfortable posting these nasty remarks because no one can point at finger at you; you hide behind your nastiness by being unidentifable. So, you're really not too proud of yourself, are you? So, no one cares that you choose not to post your identity, it's your negativity and constant criticism that put a damper on other people's enjoyment. You are what is commonly referred to as a "party pooper."
Kate - Pat CHS79 and I do not know each other. It's unfortunate that I share my first name with someone with a one-line negative thought. And, if you are curious about anything about me, just ask me. I'll be glad to answer - so will Florence or Frank Vaul or anyone else who knew me "back then". I have nothing to hide nor to be ashamed of.
About my sex life - darn you George, you re-awakened old memories!! Men still chase me, but I'm not interested in being caught because what we used to do all night, now takes all night to do. That's why it's called "retirement" - now have more time. (he-he)
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 6:30:11 PM
My youngest son had a lot of huge snakes and lizards and many other things. He worked at the SPCA for his first job.He had quite an assortment even a capuchen monkey. Quite a few memories here for me.One time the parrot landed on the monks cage and was plucked clean.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 6:25:03 PM
Tom, I remember when my youngest son had quite a few big snakes and large lizards,and quite a few other things. I can remember the snakes lifting the tops up and getting ouy. We really had to weigh the lids down. Wehad special cages and etc and heat for them.I had to help him do different things with them.One snake we had would eat a egg raw in the shell. I probably got pretty educated on snakes and caring for them. His first job was at the SPCA, he brought many things home to take care of. ONe thing was a capuchan monkey, bimbo, she was here forever.
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 4:38:15 PM
thats good Harvey. I think that would be a great question. I done after this one.
How many times do you open the door to OLDCHESTERPA and let the memories come in? daily, weekly, monthly, never.
I think what we called "Turtle Rocks" is what Florance K. called Trainer Rocks. Now a small park area.
Figured out what happens with the multiple postings. I accidently hit the space bar and it took what I was typing and sent it 3 times. Sorry about that folks.
I miss hearing from Pisano, enjoyed the Italian village updates.U
.
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 4:30:35 PM
I remember one time I came home with about 30 various sized gardner snakes and sneaked them in the house up to my bedroom. I put them in an old fish tank I had. I was young and it was before I became aware that cats go after more than just gold fish. My mom heard the crash as the cat jumped up and tipped the tank which was on the edge of my desk. Needless to say there was about 20 snakes that got away from the cat which meant they were lose in the house. My mom freaked out. She made me check everywhere in the house. I rounded up a dozen. She wouldn't walk around the house at night without every light on for 2 weeks and I was grounded for longer than that. The cat didn't even get in trouble.. :(
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 3:43:27 PM
Harvey---guilty. I can remember when we lived on 15th st., my two small boys came home from a picnic, with their pockets full of grasshopers, without their wings. I did not didcover this till I did the wash. I remember also when they came home with two giant jars full of little frogs.
Name: Florence Robinson Kramer
Email: Fekramer@aol.com
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 3:26:10 PM
Westenders: Do you remember----- Playing "box hockey" at the playground in the village Buying "chinese apples" at McGlones (the alley store) The "Brandywine" ice cream truck Zagara's water ice Catching tadpoles in the "woods" - William Penn school now occupies the site "Trainer Rocks"
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 2:26:40 PM
I just figured out this board is getting 400 hits a day...that means there must be 7 other people who check it 50 times a day like I do.
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 12:55:26 PM
John B. Webmaster: How about the walking tour on Saturday. Time for a update on the hidden history that the city of Chester has within afew blocks. I think I remember about 6/7 years ago Geo. Washington on a horse pulled buggy outside the old court house then getting out of the buggy and going inside. We are all anxious to see "WHAT's NEW" updated.
Thanks Harvey..that was a pleaent break during lunch.
Name: No Name
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 12:54:40 PM
To UW
You express exactly what I wrote about. You prefer to be Unknown Writer as well as I do. So does Kate think you irritate her too? I hope not. I have respect for her and her other contributions. So, we don't know who you are and it really doesn't matter because you contribute so much to this site. Just like you said, there are ups & downs. There's also good and evil, positive and negative. That's everyday living. This world and the people living in it aren't perfect and neither is Chester, it's former residents, it's present residents, No Names and the people who want to post their names. I agree that the powers-to-be in Chester can gather useful input from some of these posts, positive and negative. If all were positive, then there would be no need for changes. Keep up the good work UW. I enjoy your contibutions.
To Tom
Same as the above in reference what you prefer to post. If it's all positive in your eyes, write what you feel but allow others to express how they all feel too.
To Harvey
I saved the last for you. "Let There Be Peace On Earth". What a Wonderful link as usual. You are the "Peacemaker". Keep up the good work. All your postings and "links" are most enjoyable. A pleasure I enjoy very much.
A word on PEACE
Peace can be attained when respect for the rights of others are put in practiced, not only here on this board but throughout the whole wide world. That's the biggest problem with all the bad happenings going on in this world today.
To All
AS Harvey so well posted the link to "Let there be Peace on Earth and let it begin with me".
Let's not forget all of you out there in cyberspace, let it begin with you too.
Have a nice day all.
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 10:59:49 AM
Peace on Earth
http://www.angelfire.com/ma4/blueyes/peaceonearth.html
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 10:20:25 AM
It was as bad as you let it be in Chester. I used to walk home from the West End Boat Club (Front & Jeffries) to McCaffery at 1 in the morning after work. Many a night and I was never bothered. That was in the mid 70's. I hear people talking about the riots and stuff. Hell I lived them and even knew the guy who got shot. I have not brought up to many negative things about where I grew up. I was jumped in Chester High a few times, but I was I guess what you would call a crazy white boy because I fought back. Those years are long gone and there is no bitterness in me it was to me just part of growing up and learniing about life in the city. The GOOD times well out number the bad, so I chose to talk about them. Which keeps me in a positive state of mind and makes me proud of where I grew up until the mid 80's CHESTER. I have many a bad stories I could tell but choose not to. Long live the good memories of Chester.
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 10:12:05 AM
No Name:
Thank you, I prefer to remain the "Uknown Writer" (U.W.) for my own reasons that would bore anyone else. And yes Florance, Harvey, Paul, Geo. Patricia,etc. do contribute so much to this message board as well as any one that takes the time from their daily chores or work day to say hello with what ever comment they make. Life is not filled with only ups, there are some downs. Recently the "Town Meeting" although it seemed Negative to some on this board may have added insite to the Mayor about how the outside world really sees Chester.
Lets not think for one moment that the Mayor and governing body in Chester are not aware of this message board. This site is food for thought.
again I think the following phrase can be repeated for us OLDCHESTERPA people
"Don't cry because its over, Smile because it happened".
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:47:57 AM
Kate,
What difference does it make if you know or don't know who is posting? Anyone can make up a name and you still wouldn't know who they are. Few people posting their names feel the need to be constantly recognized, like they need all the world to know all the intimate details of their lives. They are more irritating with their overassumptions, know-it-all attitudes. People like you, UW, Harvey, Florence, usually contribute interesting information. So you see it really doesn't matter to you or anyone else who we/I am. I don't know you but I truly enjoy what YOU contribute and like I told you before, even though you are younger, you have a lot on the ball. If you know what I mean.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 9:22:11 AM
hey pidipat sounds like phoenix,may have the makings of chester/west 2002 edition!where you going to move,from there?hong kong?can you make phoenix into a historic site west?
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 12:30:24 AM
You people that don't post your names are really irritating
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/30/2002
Time: 12:14:50 AM
Just had a fast question. Is this board about Phoenix or Chester. I read all the posts and I thought this was about the memories of Chester.
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 11:41:33 PM
Pat 49 chs, don't you know PP??? You & her must have been in CHS together.... Why did you say that???? I am curious
Name: Pat CHS49
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 11:37:46 PM
HoHum, pidipat is back.
Name: Bob
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 10:32:26 PM
Over 12 years ago, a Realtor who sold our beautiful home in Chester , told us if our house was located in Ridley Park or Glenolden, we could have sold it for over $100,000. Had to sell it for less than half because of the location in the first ward. It is boarded up now.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 10:16:21 PM
One can easily afford to move to the first ward in Chester now. But who would want to live there? It's just as bad as all the other wards in Chester. What was once beautiful homes are now rundown or boarded up. The decay started from the west to the east part of town, around Front, second, third, fouth, fifth and eventually up to 25th including all the named streets in between up into North Chester. It would take a lot of money and know-how to turn the WHOLE city around. This is not being negative. It's being realistic.
Name: George
Email: gpmalick@wideopenwest.com
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:36:35 PM
Pat: Thanks for the insight, so you turn 70 and no more sex and then you can REALLY enjoy the grandkids? Didn't know that. And the Mexican Invasion of Phoenix must be devistating to you just as the European invasion was to folks back at the turn of the last century. U.W. In the early 60's, you could still do a little crusing on 7th to downtown and then back on 9th to Linton's and Shusters but that was over by 63 and 64. Coinciding with the riots in Newark and Detroit, we had them bad in Chester too. Cars at Shusters were deluged with rocks being thrown from the field just below on Flower. False Alarms were so dominant that many of the volunteer fireman were deputized to help the police. That caused the demise of the "pull" firebox on every other corner. Yeah, it got bad. Some neighborhoods stayed pretty safe, the area around St.Hedwig's was one, other people on here could probably refer to more. In '60 I and a group of my buddies were "jumped" on Wilson as we walked from my house on 4th St to 6th & Wilson. My parents could never have afforded to move from there to the 1st Ward, so they stuck it out as long as they could. George
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:15:07 PM
Patricia, ya know what else you are missing...today you do not tell people what they should be doing & you know why-THEY WILL SHOT OR KNIFE YOU, in any city across the USA.
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS50)
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:11:45 PM
Sorry that long post was duplicated. I'm having so much trouble with my computer.
Well, you mentioned the shootings, etc. - EXACTLY, the same thing here, EXACTLY.
Name: kATE
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:09:30 PM
u.w lINTON'S & sHUSTER'S WERE O.K. IN THE EARLY 60'S i THINK THE BIG CHANGE WAS A LITTLE BIT LATER.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:05:21 PM
FORGOT TO SIGN, kATE
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:04:13 PM
Patricia, what you just wrote about I would not want to be a part of, see I think you should work hard and have goals & be where you want to be in life as you get older. The one thing I can tell you that happened in the 60's, I was there for this is the blacks rioting, the blacks burning down CHS, I had a bullet go thru my windshield at the traffic light on Flower St., which is now i95, then they were not content to have every low income project in Chester but one, they started moveing into McCaffery Village, which was all white. they had riots in the 70's I know of some who were killed. What do you think anyone could of done about that? the cops could do nothing... I rest my case.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:01:18 PM
for goodness sake, if you want to write a book on pheonix sent it to a publisher. my finger hurts from scrolling past your history of pheonix arizona. what's with you? you need a hobby.
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 8:58:58 PM
George: Of course you had great teen years, everyone did-just some years were a little better than others in the bygone days..
You mean to tell me that after 1954 when my family moved it got that bad? I can remember catching the train into Chester and meeting a couple of old friends in town. We walked from town to Memorial park then down to St. Hedwigs for some type of function they were having. That was in about 55. Actually it seems we walked everywhere in those days. Do you remember walking to "Turtle Rock" and sliding down the rocks in the Summer. The rocks were like a natural waterslide. I went past them several weeks ago and they don't look quite as large as they did to a kid between the age of 7 thru 12.
I would have been 16 in 1956 and I can remember driving my car down to Shusters to take my suburban friends to this great place. Is my memory fading, was it bad and I just can't remember. I think I even brought them to 9th and Kerlin to the Linton drive in that was there. It was a lintons wasn't it? Which one did the waitresses roller skate to the car?
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS '50)
Email: pidipat@earthlink.net
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 8:42:45 PM
Well, here I am again, like it or not.
If you will permit me 2 days of your time, I will explain to you why I said that I blame Chester's neglect on we the people is because the very same thing is happening to us here in Phoenix, as I speak. Age brings not only wisdom, hopefully, but insight into what is going on around us. Our hormones aren't racing anymore, most ex-husbands or lovers are either gone or dead, and our love now extends to our grandchildren, the most "joyous" of loves, I think.
So, here in Phoenix, the city is slowly, but surely, but surely, being taken over by the steady influx from Mexico, most of whom are here illegally. The pregnant wives come here one way or the other, the babies are born here, and that entitles them to all the benefits of citizenship right here. Phoenix is the capitol and therefore, houses most of the AZ attorneys. The majority of the lawsuits are malpractice (of stillborn babies, or other baby defects) and automobile accidents. I know what I say because I work in law offices. The attorneys are so greedy that the more lawsuits, the better, thus affecting so many aspects of the working man's life. The car dealers are more than happy to have their business - $25 down and $25 a week for a wreak. Stores have opened all over the city ready to give them an "advance" until they get their paycheck. We never had that type of store before. Twice, already, the citizens have had to vote on whether or not they wanted to make "Spanish" our OFFICIAL LANGUAGE. That's the influence they are exerting.
We (the people I know and talk to in Phoenix) all agree that someday Arizona will be strictly Spanish-speaking and inhabited by Mexicans. And WE, WE are permitting it to happen.
We intermingle on a day-by-day basis in our everyday lives. Most of them (not all) are extremely rude to the "gringos", their children run wild in shopping centers (they go up and down the aisles, throw items on the floor and leave the place trashed) and the parents permit them. A friend told me just recently that she was in a one of the big retail stores that sell bicyles and two Mexican kids grabbed two of the bikes and rode them around the store. No parental interference at all - let them do as they choose. They trash their homes and if you have to share common facilities with them, expect the facilities to be trashed; beautiful grounds are destroyed, they yell at 6 in the morning and 10 at night constantly and play their music so loud you can't hear your own TV. They show not only complete disrespect to the "gringos" but utter disregard for what we think and our principles. Many of them are draining our welfare system, and at stores, I see them pull out a WAD of money.
The reason I listed (just a few) the above, is because most people are simply afraid to stand up to them. THIS IS WHAT I MEAN WHEN I SAID IT WAS YOUR FAULT - you let them get away with it.
We have a pool in our complex. The rules are spelled out that children are to be supervised by an adult (we have too many, many too many child drownings in our city and the city weeps over each and everyone of them), and guests are permitted only with approval of management. A Mexican woman moved in. That weekend her 5-6 yr old girl with another one about the same age were in the pool with a 10 yr old sweeping out the leaves and throwing them on the cooldeck. We had just had a wild windstorm come through. I went out (manager not here on weekends) and told them they had to have adult supervision. These children DO NOT KNOW HOW TO SWIM. They have never had a "pool" in their life. And, then we're expected to feel badly when their children drown when the mother sends them out to the pool with no supervision. The mother came out then with 8 members of her family (guests, not residents) and took over the entire pool. I went out again and told them they were breaking the rules. Well, you can just imagine what words were hurled at me; however, I stood my ground until they all left, and I haven't seen them back again. They insist on not acknowledging what you say. The mother said at one point, "See, you made my daughter cry." I thought, "better alive crying, than dead at the bottom of the pool." You see, two completely different ways of thinking. They don't care if they break rules - period.
If the ones who want to take over aren't confronted with the fact that they are breaking the rules and we're not going to put up with it, then they get away with it time and time again, until the "prize" belongs to them, and it's turned into a slum.
In a way, it's like naughty spoiled children. If no one tells them what is expected of them, they do as they please, then they hate you when they get older and reach out to destroy. They do not have the wherewithall to continue on with what you have started - so decay arrives rapidly.
I am not afraid to stand up to rudeness and trashing where I live - I will call them on it. Most people don't "want to get involved" - but I do. They call me the "monitor of the laundry room." You bet!!
Now, I've tried to explain my take on why Chester bellied-up. It has always bewildered me why people let other people get away with breaking rules, being self-serving and absolutely no consideration for others. I didn't post the poem "The Bridge Builder" here for no reason. It just takes one person to tell them you are not going to put up with it. If they break the law or the rules, a citizen has the right to call them on it. But, damn it, we don't - be nice, now, be nice. Nice doesn't always get it. I am pleasant to everyone I know, except what I just explained. Banks cater to them. You can stand in line for 15 minutes waiting for the teller trying to explain they don't have an account with that bank and they can't cash their check. I told one teller to hire a Spanish-speaking person for the "turn-down" line alone.
I realize I wrote about all the new construction taking place in mid-Phoenix, and it is; AND the take-over influence is completely ignored. I sincerely hope it helps, but I doubt it.
I wasn't in Chester in the 60's when it really started to rot. Can anyone explain here what you saw on a day-by-day basis that might have caused it. I mean individual experiences, where you wish you had said or done something, etc., such as I just did. Anything similar? Seriously, please let us know, because it starts with just one person, not the politicians. From your personal experiences, not supposition on the part of what you think caused it. Give us real, hard, personally experienced facts.
Name: Jean
Email: js18008@cedarnet.org
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 8:38:28 PM
Hi! I have a hobby horse(50+ years old)with the address of J.W.McKinney, 1506 Edgemont Ave, Chester. Penn on the bottom of it. Does this business still exist or did it change names? There are three large rubber bands on it to give it bounce and I'm wondering if the address is for the rubber bands. If anyone has any information the could share with me on this company, I would really appreciate it. Just e-mail me. Thanks Jean
Name: George
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 8:22:39 PM
Forgot to mention that there are some lonely folks in the Chat room tonight, It's West End Night, see ya there, G
http://prv-groups.aol.com/oldchesterpa/
Name: George
Email: gpmalick@wideopenwest.com
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 8:21:12 PM
U.W.: I didn't say it was "Night of the living dead" back then, just not like some of the great memories others have posted. One good friend of mine on the board grew up with my older brother in the 40's and talks about "walking" downtown from the West End! Yeah right, not in MY day, we couldn't go past Engle St and got so bad we couldn't go to "Moe's" (Shusters) or even Memorial Park. Thanks,,,,George
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 8:12:24 PM
U.W. I received that message also.I worked in Chester for many years, even after I moved a few minutes away. The only reason I didn't work there later is because they moved the place and business I worked for.
Name: Jim
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 8:08:43 PM
To . EG....... What the heck street do you live on???? Please........
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 7:37:40 PM
West-end chat night tonight....
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 6:32:34 PM
Geo: I am sorry that you missed the really good years in So. Chester. You missed a H___ of a great time. Those of us that left did so with I am sure no regrets. But that does not mean that we can't remember. I received a email last week and the following phrase struck me as a good one for those of us that enjoy the memories that are and were awaken by "OldChesterPA". it is:
"Don't cry because its over, Smile because it happened".
and for those that stayed, I hope your mayor makes it happen again in some better way than it is today.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 6:12:15 PM
I also grew up in Chester during the 30's and 40's.And I have all good memories, my sister and her family still live in Chester. As my children grew so did my wishes for them to be better off than I was, not with my growing up, but I would have liked them to have better than me. They have grown into wonderful caring people.
Name: Kate(N.D.65)
Email: lucydesi8@comcast.net
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 6:00:50 PM
George Malick, I too share the same feelings about Chester, well said.
Name: George Malick (-P)
Email: gpmalick@wideopenwest.com
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 5:21:16 PM
To FC: I normally don't like to join in any of the rhetoric about the quality of life in Chester. Last time I did that I got called out for being negative but when you say that most of the blame for the demise of the City belongs to those that moved out, I really have to take issue with you. Recently, when I was back in town to attend my sister's funeral, I told my brother, who still lives in Chester, about the OldChester web site and told him I didn't have many of the fond memories that a lot of people do that post messages. He said "well you grew up in the 50's and 60's, you missed it" I was lucky enough to be at the tale end of the glory days at Chester High. I truly believe that I got as good an education there that I could have anywhere else. The problem was by that time there was little if any opportunity in Chester. It was next to impossible to get a good job, the streets were not safe and I sure as hell knew I didn't want to raise a family there. I can only speak for my own parents, but I'd be willing to bet that they were like most other's in the fact that they wanted better for their kids, better jobs, better housing, etc. Quite a few of us took that advice and left friends and family behind to go make our mark on the world. Some people call that the American Dream. FC, it just wasn't available to most of us in Chester. So put the blame someWHERE else but not on us. The sad part is that the black population that moved INTO Chester, was looking for a better opportunity than they had wherever they came from also. Funny how it's true, that one man's junk is another man's treasure. And to Craig, I apologize if this offends you and you feel I'm being negative but the heading at the top of THIS page states "Share your recollections about Chester!" These are mine. To EG, don't go away mad because of some of the comments that offend you. You sound very proud to be a part of Chester, so defend it, tell us what's going on to make you feel that way, we'll never know if folks like you don't tell us. George
Name: R2
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 4:49:39 PM
WATER SEEKS ITS OWN LEVEL.
Name: EG
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 4:14:48 PM
THIS WILL PROBABLY BE MY LAST POSTING ON THIS WEBSITE. I AM ONE OF THE 10% THAT STILL LIVE IN CHESTER, I AM NOT AFRAID TO SAY I AM FROM THIS CITY, I LIVE ON A VERY MULTI-ETHNIC BLOCK, WE HAVE BLACKS, HISPANICS, HINDUS, MUSLIM,WHITES, MENTALLY CHALLENGED, AND WE ARE A COMMUNITY OF PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT THEIR PROPERTIES AND WE DEFINITELY HAVE DIGNITY. IF YOU DON'T HAVE ANYTHING NICE TO SAY THAN DON'T SAY ANYTHING, IF YOU LIVE 5 MINUTES AWAY FROM THE CITY, THEN MOVE 30 MINUTES AWAY FROM THIS CITY, BROOKHAVEN, ASTON,RIDLEY ALSO HAVE CRIME MURDERS AND UNSAVORY CHARACTERS. I AM FINISHED AND I AM PROUD TO BE A PRESENT CHESTERITE,WITH A MAYOR WHO IS TRING TO DO SOMETHING POSITIVE WITH WHAT IS LEFT IN CHESTER. CHESTER MAY HAVE A LOT OF FAULTS AND BAD PUBLICITY, BUT I AM PROUD TO BE A PART OF THIS CITY.
Name: Craig Rainey
Email: CraigyFled86@aol.com
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 3:14:34 PM
To the coward that wrongly identified his or herself as Chester Clipper. I am going to pray for you. Chester may have some things in common with many of the places that you mentioned, but why didn't you take the time to research to find all of the positive cities in this country that also has things in common with the positive aspects of our great city of Chester. We don't want to read your trash, especially if you are not man or woman enough to also add the positives. Don't read or visit our website if you don't have anything positive to offer. Visit the website in your town and enjoy sharing your hate there. We are positive people with positive thoughts and don't want you as a part of this group unless you can change and have something productive to offer. No! Don't even think for one moment that in any way you've spoiled my day because you haven't. Many of the negative elements that you mentioned about Chester is also available and going on daily at most of the Suburban towns across this country, without much of the same press. Weren't you intelligent enough to realize this before posting your silly comments? I'm very happy that a true Chester Clipper could just give a fake Chester Clipper OR WANNABE CLIPPER a little bit of Chester love.
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 2:19:14 PM
Did you know that although there was a one room high school in Ridley Park as early as 1887 that in 1917 new construction began for the Ridley Park High School and it was dedicated in 1918. (Outside students to the school came from Marcus Hook, Parkside, Trainer, Linwood, Upland).
What does that have to do with Chester you might ask..
Before that most Ridley Parks students attended Chester High School.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 2:17:28 PM
TO FC How do you figure any blame goes to the people who moved out of the city, blame the people who moved the bad element in, once the blacks had a strong hold in Chester, the migration started. Everyone has a right to live where they want.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 2:13:34 PM
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 2:07:48 PM
Well go figure.
Name: FC CHS68
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 1:02:00 PM
To Pidipat-Go to the Oldchesterpa home page and look for the link to City of Chester and the mayors name and picture will come up. If you can't find an address-it is City of Chester 34 E 5th St Chester Pa 19013.
Name: FC CHS 68
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 12:43:33 PM
To Tom- there is a KFC at 9th & Ave of the States--TO Florence-They are tearing down all houses on the south side of 2d st for the new highway. Also you and noname are spelling Widener Univ all wrong.TO NOMANE- Joe Klecko also used to bounce at the Anvil Inn in Kennett Sq.He now lives in NJ as ahouse builder and has a son playing for Temple U football team. TO JOAN- Donna was right,some if not most of the blame for the way Chester is now can be put on the people who mved out of the city along with malls and factories.
Name: Chester Clipper
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:57:02 AM
What does Chester have in common with the following cities?
Washington, D.C. , Paterson, NJ, Wilmington, De, Detroit, MI, Atlantic City, Gary, Indiana, Camden, NJ, Jersey City, NJ, Compton, Ca, Berkley, Ca, Brooklyn and the Bronx, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Oh, South Central Los Angeles, Hartford and New Haven,, Baltimore, Md, Philadelphia, Pa
Answer: Crime, drugs, gangs, poverty, dilapidated and decaying housing, unmarried women with children on welfare, and Blacks are more than 50% of the population!
Name: Mike Mangan StJ'57
Email: mangan0521@aol.com
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:53:58 AM
Tom CHS'76:: Tom, my hair is a little grey on the sides now, but not in the '70's. In fact I moved to Charlotte in '68. I worked tending bar at Rube's through most of the 60's on the weekends. I was still working at Westinghouse. I knew John McCloskey very well. He used to work at the Clipper Ship on McDade before going to the old Club 31 or McCloskeys. Of course, John was from the neighborhood also. Nice guy.
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 9:41:36 AM
Mike, I think I am remembering you. Did you, hate to ask this, have grey hair in the late 70's always combed back? My dad was good friends with John McCloskey and was always in Rubes and he use to clean the bar at McCloskey's on Sundays.
Name: u.w.
Email:
Date: 4/29/2002
Time: 8:12:45 AM
Paul: the music teacher at Clayton around 1950 was Ms. Sidorsky. She moved to a suburban school in the early 1950's. I am told you really learned when she was your instructor she was a no nonsence teacher.
Know very little about Highland Gardens always got the 3 communities mixed up. Knew some people there thru school and some in the area who were family.
Name: Mike Mangan St,'57
Email: mangan0521@aol.com
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 10:02:43 PM
Frank Sbandi:: Yes they were the good times in Chester, when you didn't have to lock your doors, and life was a lot slower & it seemed like everyone knew their neighbors. I remember as a kid going to Rube's or your Mom & Dads place and watching the Friday night fights on the TV with the magnifying glass on it. Gillette on Fridays & Pabts Blue Ribbon on Wednesdays. I thought a aweful lot of your Mom & Dad also. They were genuine people.. Yes I was with Westinghouse. Stayed with them from 1958 to 1994.
Name: Paul D. Crowther
Email: pcrowther4@cogeco.ca
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 5:33:09 PM
TO UW.. I don't know who Donald's teacher was. It seemed like every other Friday afternoon at Clayton school we would have a sort of talent show. Quite often Don would entertain with his accordian. I really enjoyed hearing him. Wonder if they still do this at schools today.
Name: TomCHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 3:34:24 PM
Frank, I worked for Albert at the bar for a few years. I also took his wedding pictures up in Philly when he married Mayor Greene's niece (I think she was, anyway). How is he doing these days? I haven't seen him since Doris Adam's son past away with MD.
Kate, You were right, again. I talked to my buddy who works at the RS and he said Klecko worked there when he was like 18 and he was a bouncer. Jack you were right Joe played Defensive End, Defensive Tackle and Defensive Back. I know that he used to live in Westtown, don't know now, though.
Mike Garvey, I'll probably see you next month you won't recognize me, but maybe. I used to hang around with your sister, you know the one that's been married for 25 years now.
Name: Sam
Email:
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 3:04:38 PM
To UW, No I'm not from Temple. I was born in Chester in 1934. You know me and my family, but we dont know you.
Name: Frank Sbandi
Email: Frankgolf01@hotmail.com
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 11:16:33 AM
To Mike Mangan: Your mother and father were good friends of my mother and father who owned the bar at 9th and Keystone and Clover Lane. The building has now been removed and the other day a Jack and Jill man was shot to death on the street corner.After church on Sunday at Rez I would go to Honeysuckle for a banana split prepared by your Mom. It was huge. Remember the boys hanging at Fletchers sandwich shop and Johnsons pharmacy which later became Vesuvios Pizza place. I think Mike worked for Westinghouse and took the opportunity to go to North Carolina when they opened a new plant. My Dad always thought highly of you.I am an attorney in Media,Pa.
Name: PamRHS75
Email: watt6@aol
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 5:00:27 AM
My husband saw Joe not too long ago. I think he lives in Chester County. Had lunch with him about 4 yrs ago also.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 1:09:16 AM
Mike
You are right. The bar was at 9th & keystone. If I am not mistaken again, Liberty was down around 3rd & Reaney Strs. The whole family were nice people.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 1:04:44 AM
Mike
You are right. If I am not mistaken again, Liberty was down around 3rd & Reaney Strs. The whole family were nice people.
Name: Pat CHS49
Email:
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 12:30:24 AM
Excuse me spelling teacher. It should be "superintendent" not "superintendant". Thank you.
Name: Mike Mangan StJ'57
Email: mangan0521@aol.com
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 12:26:06 AM
TO: NO NAME I don't know much about the young Ferrara's sexuality, but he seemed very nice when he came into Rube's. Liberty Bottling was down on 3rd St. somewhere. Mary married Frank Sbandi & they had the bar at 9th & Keystone. After they divorced & Frank got the business, she still lived upstairs in an apartment. Both Frank & Mary were great people in my book. Young Albert their son ran the bar for some years after I was transferred to Charlotte. It has since closed.
Name: Pat CHS49
Email:
Date: 4/28/2002
Time: 12:17:31 AM
To Florence, Buffy and any others concerning "Hail Chester High" I played alto sax in the CHS band and sure enough my memory of our Alma Mater was that "CD Long" was printed at the top right hand of the music sheet. I'm sure that he wrote the music but I don't know if he wrote the words. I played that song many times during my final two years at CHS. Mr. Long was our director and later he became Superintendant of Chester Schools. He was strict and a no-nonsense person and was liked by all who knew him. One interesting note about Alma Maters: Many times schools used music that had already been composed and had words written for that music. For example Chichester uses Far Above Cayuga's Waters". Anyone know if Chester still uses this version of CD Long. Thank you for your responses.
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:38:18 PM
I see Mr. Piscotti most mornings at OLC. He is doing good.
My grandfather, Mike McCarthy, played an old German accordion...mostly Irish songs like Washerwoman... but he did do Beer Barrel Polka.
Name: u.w.
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:21:41 PM
Paul: No Paul,did he take from Geo Hoven or Mr. Piscotti? In those days the teacher would come to the house for private lessons and my dad who could play any instrument by ear had to suffer though the half hour along with Mr. Piscotti. The nice thing is I can still pickup the accordian today and play tunes. Not as well as Sammy from "The Night Riders". but enough that
I impress only my grandkids and the dog.
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:19:56 PM
Polka Radio - 24 Hrs - 7 Days
http://www.247polkaheaven.com/
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 10:34:41 PM
Sam: Are you at Temple?
Name: Paul D. Crowther
Email: pcrowther4@cogeco.ca
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 10:31:38 PM
TO UW.. Did you know an accordian player fromthe West End named Donald Makuch?
Name: Paul D. Crowther
Email: pcrowther4@cogeco.ca
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 10:20:19 PM
TO SAM.. I don't really know when they started to build Highland Gardens. I think the last section which is North of where the I-95 is now was completed last. We moved there in 1944. The street wasn't paved at the time.
Name: Paul D. Crowther
Email: pcrowther4@cogeco.ca
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 10:15:27 PM
I remember Franny Fedina. He used to date my best friends sister. He had a nice 1955 Olds Brand new!
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 10:05:49 PM
On The Way To Cape May
http://www.paulrichardson.com/catalog.html
Name: Sam
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 9:30:25 PM
Again I ask, especially U W. Can anyone tell me when Highland Gardens was developed?
Name: Born and rased in Chester
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 9:25:22 PM
Chester is not the only nice tpown to go down the drain after industry pulled out. There are many towns where people who moved out after the jobs dwindled. The people of those towns had many fond memories of growing up in a nice town such as Chester was. Dont dwell on the town as it is today, rember the good days and smile.
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 8:10:23 PM
Thanks to the following for putting the words to either the alma mater, popular school song and some cheers together. They are all put together here. Any additions lets put them here so they can go in the school section.
Pat McF: the Title Florance with the author Mary (Marie)Constantini Larner - the words no name for the song/cheer -Were from CHS
CHESTER HIGH ALMA MATER
C.D. Long (Charles D. Long) Music Supervisor
"Hail Chester High"
Hail Chester High! All honor praise be thine, We owe what e'er we are to thee, What e'er we hope to be. On future's broadning path, Where life's stern duties lie, we'll firmly tread with visions clearand thank thee Chester High.
Was the following a song sung at sporting events or a cheer?
We're from Chester High School, Clippers our name, we'll fight for victory, We'll fight on for fame.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 7:55:54 PM
Mike, I don't think the son ever married. He appeared to be gay. His mother (Bessie) was sister to Mary Sbandi who owned the Liberty Bottling works (Beer & Soda Distributor)near 9th & Keystone.
Name: mike Garvey
Email: chesterchevy19061@yahoo
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 6:58:23 PM
you are all right it was a tailor shop. I would sit across the street as a child at the beer celler. My uncle woody and father fran, mother worked thier my aunt.almost the whole family. I would wait for the Bud truck to come and ride the cases down the old tracks as the men stacked the beer one case at a time. I would run across the street and peek in the windows, Boy thier was alot of windows. just another memory of my child hood. thank you for keeping it green for me
mike Garvey
Name: mike garvey
Email: chesterchevey19061@yahoo
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 6:54:15 PM
Name: Mike Mangan StJ'57
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 2:34:41 PM
To No Name:: You are right, it was Ferrara. Fedina lived on 6th st. The son used to stop in Rube's once in a while..Just a little slip of the old memory..
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:37:24 AM
Pat, not only is my mind going but also my eyes. It was C.D.Long, which must have been Charles D. Long, our music supervisor.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:36:57 AM
Pat, not only is my mind going but also my eyes. It was C.D.Long, which must have been Charles D. Long, our music supervisor.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:13:31 AM
Pat, according to my annual it was A.D.Long
Name: FlorenceChs50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:11:59 AM
Pat in the annual, A.....D Long is at the top of the page over the song. I don't know if he wrote the words or the music or both.
I was remembering in the 50's, as I was walking home from work, how beautiful the bushes and trees were around 14thst, and how wonderful it smelled, such a beautiful area then,
Name: FlorenceChs50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:11:39 AM
Pat in the annual, A.....D Long is at the top of the page over the song. I don't know if he wrote the words or the music or both.
I was remembering in the 50's, as I was walking home from work, how beautiful the bushes and trees were around 14thst, and how wonderful it smelled, such a beautiful area then,
Name: FlorenceChs50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 11:11:20 AM
Pat in the annual, A.....D Long is at the top of the page over the song. I don't know if he wrote the words or the music or both.
I was remembering in the 50's, as I was walking home from work, how beautiful the bushes and trees were around 14thst, and how wonderful it smelled, such a beautiful area then,
Name: u.W.
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 9:30:15 AM
I see my computer swallowed some letters in the words I wrote..I know you know what I meant. Have a good week end, be good to yourself.
SEE YOU AT THE WALKING TOUR..MAYBE..
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 9:27:52 AM
Thanks all did not mean not to leave a signature. My memory most be slipping. Why I would not have TM's made there in the early 50's if it were that close to where I live. Went up to the Italian neighborhodd and had them made there. Guys and gals even came from the burbs to get them made on 3rd street.
Agan thanks, gotta go eat some crow prepared by the worlds best older sister.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 9:10:15 AM
The family that lived in the house and had the tailor shop in the rear of the house at 9th and Booth was Ferrari"s. In fact Amedeo was the name of father and son. The son just passed on a few weeks ago.
Name: Mike Mangan
Email: mangan0521@aol.com
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 3:46:54 AM
To: No Name The hoise at 9th & Booth was a tailor shop. The family lived in the housr out front, on 9th St. Their name was Fadina, I believe. I remember the one son who's name was Franny. I had a custom made suit made there in the early 60's. He used to measure you up with the pins & chalk & the whole 10 yards. He did a super job.he pop was from the old country, spoke in the brokem english.
Name: Pat CHS49
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 1:19:35 AM
Does anyone know who wrote "Hail Chester High"?
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 12:15:18 AM
Their seems to be a lot of old west end people on here, does anyone remember a girl Dothery White class of CHS50? I know her very well in high school, but never saw her after graduation. Is she married, still live in the area?
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/27/2002
Time: 12:07:08 AM
Mike Garvey: I think your just the person that can answer a question for me. The corner house on 9th and Booth..just behind had this intriguing building. Oddly shaped and many windows. When I lived in Chester I remembered it as a shoemakers shop someone else said a tailor. I left in 54..
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 11:47:48 PM
Mike Garvey, I feel your pain, hope you are well Peace.
Name: Mike Mangan St J'57
Email: mangan0521@aol.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 10:48:08 PM
Joan: I'll bet I probably know you. We used to be there all the time. If not a the store, we would be close to it, in the little shopping center. We all went to Rez or Dewey Mann, then later years St. James or CHS. If you want some names, I can run them off for you. Had a lot of good clean fun was had there. Very good memories. By the wat my moms name was Loretta. She worked all days..
Name: Mike garvey
Email: chesterchevy19061@yahoo
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 10:39:07 PM
My brother-in-law Roy palmers mom Mrs Palmer still lives in one of the remaining row homes in McCaffery Village. I lived at 1007 Booth Street with my family most of my life. What a great place to live. I shined shoes in all the bars, Brownies, Rubes Bank tavern McCluskies. My family ran the Beer Celler under the chester library. I backed bags at Penn Friut. I even worked at HG Hientz Lumber yard for henry Hientz. It was the Summer of 1976 that changed my life. It got harder for a younge man or even a younge lady or family to live in the projects.Christ that was about the time the avon lady was killed. I remember the riots that summer. When I think back I have anger sadness pain. I wounder why It had to turn ugly. Why couldnt I still live thier? why did I have to move? I just get sad thinking about it. We were a tight group of families. Thats what nieghbers are, friends. I still see some of them Frank Pilkington, Ron Hess. Some I have not seen since thier families moved. When they started tearing down the houses I went and retrieved the address block of our old house. The Garveys 1007 Booth Street Chester, Pa 19013 Proud to say I am From Chester Pa.
Name: Mike garvey
Email: chesterchevy19061@yahoo
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 10:38:52 PM
My brother-in-law Roy palmers mom Mrs Palmer still lives in one of the remaining row homes in McCaffery Village. I lived at 1007 Booth Street with my family most of my life. What a great place to live. I shined shoes in all the bars, Brownies, Rubes Bank tavern McCluskies. My family ran the Beer Celler under the chester library. I backed bags at Penn Friut. I even worked at HG Hientz Lumber yard for henry Hientz. It was the Summer of 1976 that changed my life. It got harder for a younge man or even a younge lady or family to live in the projects.Christ that was about the time the avon lady was killed. I remember the riots that summer. When I think back I have anger sadness pain. I wounder why It had to turn ugly. Why couldnt I still live thier? why did I have to move? I just get sad thinking about it. We were a tight group of families. Thats what nieghbers are, friends. I still see some of them Frank Pilkington, Ron Hess. Some I have not seen since thier families moved. When they started tearing down the houses I went and retrieved the address block of our old house. The Garveys 1007 Booth Street Chester, Pa 19013 Proud to say I am From Chester Pa.
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 10:36:39 PM
One of these days I might do that Harvey. Mr Piscotti would make me sign a paper saying that he never taught me...maybe I'll record myself and let everyone suffer just like my music teacher had to.
There was one kid in Chester that could really play the accordian. In fact she was so good she was on Tony Grants "Stars of Tomorrow" program. She came from 5th and Highland. Would be about 61 now.
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 9:21:17 PM
George, Is this Notre Dame nite????
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 8:53:54 PM
Where is Klecko now?
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 8:50:24 PM
Joe Klecko
http://www.polishsportshof.com/hof50.htm
U.W. - I wish you would play us some polkas on your accordion!
Name: Lee (CHS53)
Email: wshorter@aol.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 8:49:58 PM
Looking for information about Lugwig Holland Aircraft Factory in Chester during WWII
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 8:40:32 PM
The George Halas Trophy is awarded to the outstanding defensive player as chosen by a panel of sports experts.
1981 Joe Klecko, N.Y. Jets
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 7:52:48 PM
Thank you, Jack, I'm sure Tom knew that.
Name: jack
Email: j.kersh@worldnet.att.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 7:50:34 PM
just a couple of guess fact's for pp.(90%is a guess)
i do appreciate all of your concern for chester and the people who live there now....but i really think that 90% of the people on this sight don't live there anymore although they are still interested in the city.
on the klecko thing...he was a middle lineman wich could of been on honest mistake by tom... he also played left and right lineman(or outside) and was the only player to ever play all three in the pro bowl...
Name: jack
Email: j.kersh@worldnet.att.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 7:49:50 PM
just a couple of guess fact's for pp.(90%is a guess)
i do appreciate all of your concern for chester and the people who live there now....but i really think that 90% of the people on this sight don't live there anymore although they are still interested in the city.
on the klecko thing...he was a middle lineman wich could of been on honest mistake by tom... he also played left and right lineman(or outside) and was the only player to ever play all three in the pro bowl...
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 7:30:55 PM
o.k., what position was it, Mr. Mystery man?
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 7:28:22 PM
yes he did but not middle linebacker
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 7:16:25 PM
No Name, Tom is the same age as my younger brother which is in his 40's I won't give his age but I know Klecko played for the Jets.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 7:10:35 PM
Tom how can you remember so much as a kid how old is your goddaughter. Joe Klecko was not a middle line backer
Name: Val
Email: gracey4558@aol
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 6:31:48 PM
Does anyone remember Maureen Lee from St Michaels? Maybe the class of 1953? I'm looking for info about her.
Name: VAL
Email: gracey4558@aol
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 6:29:08 PM
Name: Mary (Marie)Constantini Larner
Email: Rere628@aol.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 6:00:14 PM
Pat McFadden - I read your posting abut 2 a.m. this morning and it drove me crazy trying to remember the missing line. Woke up with the alarm about 6:00 and damn if the song wasn't going through my mind and I finally remembered it (guess St. Anthony helped with that one. Here it is:
Hail Chester High! All honor praise be thine, We owe what e'er we are to thee, What e'er we hope to be. On future's broadning path, Where life's stern duties lie, we'll firmly tread with visions clearand thank thee Chester High.
Name: florenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 4:53:01 PM
Kate, I honestly don't know right now
Name: florenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 4:52:45 PM
Kate, I honestly don't know right now
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 4:33:03 PM
Klecko played most of the 80's until a knee injury caused him to quit. Don't know about Ridgeway or the people that were in McCaffery. I know that Mrs. Palmer is still around but that's about all. I'm kind of rushed right now and have to get done my work, so I will check in tomorrow with some further info.
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 4:21:05 PM
Tom or Florence,How is th Ridgeway project going & where did the people go that lived in mcCaffery& who are going to live in the new homes?
Name: FlorenceChs50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 4:06:56 PM
What happened, I honestly don't know, but I don't think it's the fault of the people. I think it had to do with economyGod know I love the city we came from, and so do many others.Maybe their were so many people, that their just wasn't enough jobs to employ them.Then eventually a lot of business's moved away.A lot of business's have even left the country.More unemployed. Another giant is about to make another move and their will be more unemplyment. I don't think their is a cure
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 4:00:54 PM
THANK YOU HARVEY, I have put that in my favorite list so I won't have to bother you about the music I like....K.
Name: Donna
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 3:44:56 PM
Joan,I just read your posting and have to say I felt offended but your last comment. You stated that you don't know why chester has become a slum, but you figure it has alot to do more with the people who stayed in Chester, than the ones who left. I could care less why anyone left, all I know is that I stayed for awhile along with alot of my original neighbors. I know for a fact that we didn't contribute to the ugliness of what happened to our neighborhood. Alot of people I know STILL live in Chester and I know that they are law abiding residents. They work, they pay their taxes, they keep their property clean. So, I very much disagree with you that people who stayed , made it like it is. Not everyone who stayed had to go on welfare,live in public housing and gave into the crime and drug scene. I agree that the street I grew up on is the pits. It's a disgrace and it's just getting worse, I didn't contribute to the decay, and this I know!
Name: No Name
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 3:43:10 PM
Wrong Tom
Wouldn't want the job of Mayor of Chester. The ones elected before Pileggi did nothing for the city so he has a big job on his hands to undo all the damage that the others left for him.
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 3:41:57 PM
American Pie
http://www.noackagency.com/personal/music.html
Name: George Malick
Email: gpmalick@wideopenwest.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 2:58:29 PM
Mongo Jerry: I tried to e-mail you after I saw your post on the board but it came back undelivered. If you are the "Mongo Jerry" of 6th & Wilson fame, e-mail me, been trying to find you for some time. George
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 2:43:02 PM
Tom, What years did he play? I remember him standing at the top of the stairs at the RS, he was a big guy.
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 2:37:59 PM
Kate, Don't know about the first part. I have a good friend who has worked at the RS for Junior for years, I'll ask him. You're right on the second. He was an ALL Pro middle linebacker for the Jets from Highland Gardens. I used to work on his car (well Kenny Brown did the work I just helped) at Ed's Arco 4th and Highland.
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 2:23:41 PM
O.k. Noname, come clean. You're the mayor of Chester, aren't you? :)
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 2:04:55 PM
Hey Tom, Joe Klecko was a bouncer at the RS club at one point & I also heard he played football for the Jets, & I remember his sister Joanne
Name: Kate(N.D.65)
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 2:02:27 PM
Harvey, how about the song "American Pie".Thanks.
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 2:00:14 PM
Does anyone know who Joey Klecko is? I once saw him hit a softball onto the railroad tracks down at Memorial Park. No he didn't play baseball. He was in the movie Cannonball Run or CB Run II I think, with Jackie Gleason.
Does anyone remember Timmy and Tommy Chism from Buckman Village? They both had World series rings. I mean one of them either lost the ring or someone Stole it. I forget which one I always got them mix up. So if anyone out there has found a World Series ring I know who the rightful owner is.
Their father was the huckster in the West End that had the red stake back truck.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 1:06:30 PM
Joan, the arugments(?) if there are any, have to do with one-sided thinking and no room for posting opposing views of what is and what was. Chester is Chester, it once was a great place, it no longer is, and who knows which direction it is going. You are right when you said it slid into the slums with the SOME of the people that stayed. The statement referring to people that left was that those were the taxpaying people. When they moved out of the city, what was left were mostly low income people who couldn't or didn't pay taxes, thus causing a bigger burden on the taxpayers that stayed. Plus the fact they dragged Upland into being part of their school system which icreased taxes for Upland residents. That is the reason many Upland residents move or send their kids to private schools. Who wants their kids bused into the crime districts?
There are pros and cons with the whole subject of what Chester is now or what it could be. Some people can't accept the fact that opinions differ. And why not?
Name: Joan
Email: joaniiii@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:40:47 PM
***tapping my foot***
Don't any of you EVEN think about directing all the arguements over the current condition of the Chester slums to the OldChester message board. I can delete the mean spirited arguing faster than they can be posted.
Chester was a good working class city. The puritan work ethic was alive and well when I lived there in the 50's. Unfortunately, even then, opportunity for advancement was almost non-existant.
For me, there was no hope of college, a better job, or better housing. At 16, I left home to realize my own dreams rather than be hampered by everyone telling me my dreams were not possible.
Chester is a slum. In the 1980's PBS did a newscast on the welfare system and receipients in Chester. Chester was depicted as a terrible place to live. One of the worst in the nation.
I don't know why Chester slid into the slum state but it has more to do with the people that stayed rather than the people that left.
Name: Joan
Email: joaniiii@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:24:22 PM
To Mike Mangan StJ'57
I remember Honeysuckle Farm. It was on Ninth Street just past Highland Avenue. We kids hung out there from 8th grade to 12th grade.
Joan CHS 1956
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:13:18 PM
Tom
William Penn did land in Chester. There is or was a plaque or statue, (not sure,) at the foot of Front and Penn Streets in Chester.
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 11:59:29 AM
Thanks for the link no-name. It brought back another memory of when I was very young back in the PMC days my father was a maintenance man at the college he worked with a guy name Charlie who was his boss. The shop was under the stadium and thats where I would go if it got to cold. He used to take me to the football games on Saturday and I would spend the whole day at the college. I remember how the cadets all would march to the stadium with me on the sidewalk marching right along with them, they sat in one section and at halftime they would all go out on the field and march. When I was a child I often thought that I would someday be in one of those uniforms," because I was allowed to because my dad works here and that means I can go for free". LOL Childhood imagination.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 11:49:55 AM
Tom, yes that is true.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 11:49:33 AM
Tom, yes that is true.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 11:49:20 AM
Tom, yes that is true.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 11:49:02 AM
Tom, yes that is true.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 11:19:05 AM
hey gang,it is widener university at http://www.widener.edu/
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 10:48:26 AM
I'm sitting here in my office in Philly looking out the window and you know who I see every time why it's old Billy Penn. I remember one Saturday during the Bi-Centenial in 1976 there was a big shindig in Chester specifically at the West End Boat Club old Billy himself stopped by in his boat, he was with the Philly Phanatic they took pictures with all the kids and stayed for about two hours. Then up the river they went. It was pretty windy that day you can see it in the picture we have of my goddaughter with the phanatic. Anyway, Isn't it true that Billy actually stopped in Chester first? May have even stayed for a while before heading further up river.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 10:16:27 AM
pp no one is sneering or degrading you. we just have different views which anger you because we don't agree with your ideas. you are not laughing, you are angry or you wouldn't have said that you were being sneered at and degraded. you constantly contradict your own self. you try so hard to impress. don't try too hard then maybe you will succeed.
Name: Tom CHS76
Email: t9257@yahoo.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 9:55:37 AM
Ahh, Honeysuckle spent many an after school day there. I used to get the french cheese steak (which was basically a steak sandwich made on a round roll)and a large milkshake cost about 2 bucks. I worked at the fair at Sacred Heart hospital every year and used to take the money I earned over to Honeysuckle.
Name: C.
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 8:58:16 AM
Vince in TampaBay: Just curious, what type of store. My son-in-law in a Dr. at Tampa General
Iris: you were a beautiful "Probie" in your blue and white striped uniform with that starched to stand up by its self white cover apron. And the caps that said to the public, "I a registered Nurse" Does anyone wear them today? Can you remember your "big sisters" name from training? Mine was Liz Stroud. Wonder whatever happened to her.
Name: Mike Mangan StJ'57
Email: mangan0521@aol.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 3:29:25 AM
Does anybody remember Honeysuckle Farm on W 9th St. across from Rez. My mom worked there for years. I even worked there when I was going to Rez. I used to help Mr. Wolf, the owner, make icecream at about 5am in the morning. Then I'd leave & go to school. I'm willing to bet that he had more flavors then Ben & Jerry or any of the large ice cream makers around. He used real rum in his Rum Maple. Just an small attempt on my part to get the subjects changed & return to why this site exist.
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS '50)
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 2:47:25 AM
I went through all posts looking for questions that I should answer. I found no questions.
I live a few thousand miles away, but I am concerned, really concerned enough about the town most of you live in called Chester. I truly love the people back there and I am fighting for YOU - not me. I'm here in Phoenix, but I care enough for you and what you're going through. I am giving you something to think about and maybe work towards, so why are you challenging my dreams for something you can benefit from? It does not matter at all to me that you choose to criticize what I have propose, because I do it out of caring for you, and if I can give instead of take, I'm satisfied. Love thy neighbor - we are our brother's keeper. Remember?
If you choose to degrade or sneer at my idea, again, it does not bother me, because I tried in a positive way to offer a viable solution. It has always been my way that if I am going to criticize an unwholesome situation, it sits better with the person to whom you are complaining, if you can also come up with a solution to the problem. Because the boss can't fix it unless you're smart enough to offer a solution.
When I attended Notre Dame, we had the most marvelous nun who taught us French. She was truly a "blythe spirit". All of us girls adored her - really. She was a combination of Ingrid Bergman in appearance, and the personality of Sally Fields when she played the "Flying Nun" years ago. She made the class so much fun and she would walk up and down the aisles making us repeat what she was saying: "Ouvre la finetra, la crayon, la porte, mal a la tete, etc." (Sorry misspellings, I'm sure - wish I had continued with French). She did it all in rhythm and we sang "Frere Jacques" everyday. I still say "ferme la bouche" to people who annoy me and they're not offended because they have no idea what I said, they just think I can't speak english.
Occasionally, she would get very angry with us and put us in our place verbally, then she'd leave the classroom for a few minutes, as though in disgust. We all felt really bad about having upset her. At the end of the school year, she "confessed" to us that when she would show us anger, the reason she left the room was because when looking at our serious faces, she could not contain the laughter she felt inside - so, she left the room to make sure we took her seriously. What a credit to being a teacher and a nun, she was. She knew she had to "be in charge at all times" but found it difficult to be that type of personality.
That's how I feel. Not that I could ever compare to her, but - I'm really laughing at how serious you take me - when all I'm doing is trying to submit ideas for change. Of course, I'll never measure up to that saint of a nun, but I'll never forget her and I adore what she exemplified. One of the girls in our class went on to be an interpreter for the French language, married a French man. That's how good that sister was. So, if you could see how I "break myself up" with some of the things I post, you'd laugh along with me. But, I am serious about making a government-approved historical site of our city. Nothing is impossible, only takes time.
Name: Vince
Email: vcasciat@tampabay.rr.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 1:20:12 AM
UW, Thank You...Worked perfect. Thanks again. Vince
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS '50)
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 1:18:44 AM
I remember the melody to the CHS song posted by someone, but I too cannot remember the rest of the words except maybe "when we get together" and that's it. However in my annual of 1950, it has a song called "Our Alma Mater" with the music there also, which I will be glad to email you, if possible. But the words are:
Hail Chester High! All honor praise be thine, We owe what e'er we are to thee, What e'er we hope to be. On future's broadning path, Where life's stern duties lie, we'll (here the words are blocked out by a characture of a chorus singing) .... and thank thee Chester High. Maybe the missing words are: "we'll always praise and thank thee, etc. Don't even remember ever singing that song. But according to the 1950 annual, that's "Our Alma Mater". I think the other more memorable song was just for the games.
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 1:03:51 AM
Vince C:
http://www.delcotimes.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=3684518&BRD=1675&PAG=461&dept_id=18171&rfi=8 The web address for the times is www.delcotimes.com to find past articles in the search area type in the name your looking for and then go to refined search under it. This will bring you to a period of time you can click on to go back 30 days, 60 days etc.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Thanks, I do remember now that you mention it the Welcome...Did you know that the original year marker is set in the wall behind the delcora offices in Chester on 5th street?
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS '50)
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:56:36 AM
Vince: Go to www.delcotimes.com. I look at it every day. At one time, I needed something that appeared there and I believe there might be a section there where you can email the editor, because I got what I wanted. So, you might ask the editor about that. I saw the article last week and it was there for 2-3 days. It appears he was found dead in his car.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:54:11 AM
UW
Checked 3 yearbooks to see if Chester High's song is printed somewhere. Couldn't find it. Chester High's newspaper was called "The Welcome".
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:47:18 AM
Thanks
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:42:22 AM
Ridley Park, Chief Marks.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:42:11 AM
yes, a couple of weeks ago.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:37:36 AM
wwhen? the police chief of Ridley?
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:32:39 AM
Vince you can access the Daily times on the Computer. Not sure if you could get past news. It's true about the police chief
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:31:29 AM
Harvey: Thanks for the link. MZ always had a good column. Isn't he with the Wilmington News Journal these days.
Joe Zelnick also formerly with the Chester Times is down the shore. Editor of the Herald.
http://www.capemaycountyherald.com/
Name: Vince Casciato
Email: vcasciat@tampabay.rr.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:23:49 AM
I wounder if anybody here can help me with some info. I live in florida and I do not have access to a Daily Times. Somebody came in my store yesterday and said they heard the Police Chief of either Ridley Township or Ridley Park Commited suicide.Does anyone know where I could find the article on this. Any information would be apprecated.. Vince SJ56
Name: Vince Casciato
Email: vcasciat@tampabay.rr.com
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:23:11 AM
I wounder if anybody here can help me with some info. I live in florida and I do not have access to a Daily Times. Somebody came in my store yesterday and said they heard the Ploice Chief of either Ridley Township or Ridley Park Commited suicide.Does anyone know where I could find the article on this. Any information would be apprecated.. Vince SJ56
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:22:08 AM
1 2 3 4 5 Speak up! I said so.
Name: BM
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:16:49 AM
one, two, three, four, who you gonna cheer for Chester thats us.
think thats the end of the cheer.
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS50)
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:05:47 AM
OH, sorry - what questions did you want answers to? Must have missed that.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:05:30 AM
My, we are up past our bed time.....
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS50)
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:03:21 AM
Anonymous 3 and 4 - I told you not to speak unless called upon.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/26/2002
Time: 12:01:03 AM
We're from Chester High School, Clippers our name, we'll fight for victory, We'll fight on for fame.
something like that, not sure of the rest of the song.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:59:24 PM
I so agree, PP always has the last word...
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:56:11 PM
Dictating when and who can speak up again PP? Do we need your permission now? You sound angry! Is this the Bullock website or McFadden? You are too much!
Name: U.W.
Email:
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:51:33 PM
Orange and Black were the CHS colors. The Clipper Ship its emblem
What was the words to the School Song? Did CHS have a school song?
I can remember afew words to an old cheer from the football games...went Hurrah for Chester, Hurrah for Chester someone in the crowd is yelling hurrah for Chester...there my memory fades.
If any one has the words for the song, would love to add it to my sisters memory book.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:50:46 PM
ya know PP, you never answered any questions , you just confuse everyone and laugh at the board, some of us get it.
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS '50)
Email: pidipat@earthlink.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:42:50 PM
Here I am! You talking to me? Are you talking to me? You wanna piece of me? Go ahead - make my day! God, I wish Clint Eastwood and Robert DeNero were here, especially DeNero!!! Let me get my hormones back in balance and I'll be right with you.
Alrighty now - A few of you "no names" are so blatantly nasty (easy to do that when you're "undercover"), you attack RC for posting about gaslights. Ruth knows more about Chester history than anyone here and "gaslights" are a vital part of memories in Chester, or didn't you know that? Your anonymous rudeness is typical of many people today. You certainly don't take any pleasure in making people happy; just condemn them, because you're used to being condemned yourself. That's your life. Thank God, it's not mine. Now, I'm trying to do something good here and you have trouble handling that, and show respect to others just as you yourself would enjoy respect - but you don't get it, unless you give it. Do unto others as you would have it done to yourself. (Gee, that's a scary thought too.)
And for those who want to get back to what this board was designed for - this is exactly what it was designed for = Chester of yesterday and Chester today - and possibly an historical instead of hysterical site. If I have a dream for Chester, just tolerate, but don't condemn. At least, I have a vision and I'm not afraid to voice it. A lot of people seem to enjoy stomping on dreams. It's the people with "dreams" and "ideas" that have made your life more comfortable today than it was 50 years ago. So, instead of watching sitcoms, quiet yourself and meditate on something worthwhile.
NOW, getting back to hysterical Chester. I am no government authority (as I've often said, I am an authority on absolutely NOTHING), but it would seem to me that once an area is designated "an historial site" (which is what I had in mind with downtown Edgemont Ave.), the government is NOW IN CHARGE.
As some of you know, Nevada has no state tax. That's because the gambling industry has poured so much money into the state, they don't need to have a state tax. Phoenix also has a low state tax - because of TOURISM. Get the point!
Incidentally, whose idea was it to change the name Edgemont Ave. to Avenue of The States? Have you ever given any thought as to why it was given that name? Stupid name as far as anyone is concerned. But, there must have been a reason. Why Avenue of the "States". Think about that. Someone, somehow thought the street important enough to designate it that way. An historian perhaps, who knew how important Chester was to history? Or, some drunken jerk who thought it would be funny?
If, let's say 2 sq. miles of downtown Chester, were to be designated "an historical site", it could only be designated as such by the US government, I think (I will find out). If the US government controlled that parcel, all the vermin would be cleaned out and it would be made a safe, notice please SAFE, SAFE, SAFE, place for the American people to visit. And, surrounding homes would also be protected, I think (I will find out). I know of no crime in Williamsburg, VA - do you?
Now - the forum is open for debate. Anonymous #1, you have the floor. Anonymouses 2,3,4,5, quiet until called upon.
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:40:02 PM
Hey, thank you, I always say what i feel.
Name:
Email:
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:36:53 PM
Babs : The angry ones are not necessarily the nameless ones. Reread the posts. We nameless are not angry, we just may have a different perpective on a subject that someone else brought up. Not to constantly repeat myself, but I do prefer not to post my name for my own personal reasons, but I have every right to express my opinion even if it is about the negative side of what is the present day Chester. In fact, the whole NEGATIVE subject of present day Chester was brought up by a person who posts her name and who has dreamed up a lot of changes that she thinks would draw tourists to the city. I have a right to disagree. I live 5 minutes away from Chester and know more of what is going on in that city than someone who is thousand miles away. A message board doesn't have to be one sided.
Kate: Thank You! Great Post! You are younger than most people posting on this board and you seem to have more common sense than some of the older posters. We all must agree that we have a right to disagree.
Name: Mongo Jerry
Email: MongoJerry44@hotmail.com
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:29:35 PM
I have been visiting this web page for over a year now and have, for the most part, enjoyed reading the various comments. I have watched it evolve from a small and very good idea to quite a large endeavor. Like everyone else, I offer my kudos to John for coming up with the idea and putting up with some of the heartache and frustration I am sure he has and is enduring. As with most undertakings that enjoy feedback from visitors, this community bulletin board has taken some nasty turns. I have seen the full spectrum of emotions conveyed and watched the original idea and purpose of the page turn into one so different now that it is hard to accept. I have no quarrel with anonymity but after reading some of the "shots" that are being fired back and forth, I wonder if it's a good idea. Some time ago, someone suggested and started a chat room, which is exactly where most of this correspondence belongs. Someone else started the email feature. Both excellent ideas but not used very much by the regulars. I think it's time that we all sat back and took a deep breath and then get this bulletin board back on track. Why not take a good look at what you're going to post here and see if maybe the chat room or email isn't a better forum. Hope I haven't thrown a damper but felt compelled to say it. MongoJerry
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:25:42 PM
Babs, get a life
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:22:24 PM
you people must be on drugs!!
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:21:09 PM
Trish; get a real life!
Name: babs
Email: barraehatch@aol.com
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:16:38 PM
Florence,come back, Please don't be intimidated
Name: Kate
Email:
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:05:52 PM
Patricia, I'm waiting for your answer to things on the board, I gave my opinion, what say you??
Name: BABS
Email: barraehatch@aol,com
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 11:00:08 PM
Does anyone remember Barbacanes Farm on INCINERATOR RD? They used to have a day every year when you could watch sheep being sheared and a farmers market?
How about Moe seidman's market delivered your food order?
If your child had a fever of 104, the doctor cared enough to come to you? and never asked if you had INSURANCE? People used to really care about each other then, I don't think anybody cares about anybody any more.
Name: Harvey Martin
Email: hsmartin@snip.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 10:56:52 PM
Matt Zabitka Sportswriter
http://www.fightforchildren.com/dev/mattstory.htm
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 10:56:25 PM
Florence, what are you apoligizing to Trish for, u did nothing....
Name: Kate('65N.D.)
Email: lucydesi8@comcast.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 10:37:29 PM
I have a few things to say about this web site. First of all, everyone should have a right to express thierselves without reprisels.e.g. watch what you say or the site will be shut down....freedom of speech better prevail or we will be living in a communist country. second, we have too many chiefs & not enough Indians on this site, e.g. everyone has thier own set of rules about what we are supposed to be talking about. and third, if this web site is only about Chester than all of you better take the good with the bad...Memories are fine but some things have been said about Chester in the present and all is true, pollution, drugs, crime, decay, poverty but most of all Chester is never coming back. If John doesn't want to hear about the present then he better close his web site b/c some things have to be said.
Name: R2
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 10:13:19 PM
Trish, what is your problem???
Name: babs
Email:
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 10:12:07 PM
It seems this wonderful website is becoming a place for angry people who are mostly nameless to spread hostility. Most people who have an ounce of intelligence know it was created for a fun place to recall good times in Chester and not be a place for frustrated political activists to vent their anger. PLEASE PEOPLE, DON'T LET THESE NEGATIVE COMMENTS STOP YOU FROM GETTING BACK TO THE ORIGINAL PURPOSE OF THIS SITE. HAVE FUN OR IT COULD POSSIBLY END
Name: Pat
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 9:43:53 PM
to trish which Pat are you referring to?
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 8:55:51 PM
Trish, I will not say another word. Sorry for making you uncomfortable.
Name: trish
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 8:46:47 PM
To: Pat, Florence and Corkey, please refrain from comments on Old Chester. Com for about one week....please i beg you......
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 8:26:15 PM
Hey Florence, those of us who stay in the real world always pray for what is going on today but this site is about what is going on in Chester or what is it about??
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 8:22:25 PM
Now actually we have plentyof other things that should come first in our thoughts. Our prayers go out to all from 911 and to all of our service men and women and the people who run this great country of ours. And by the looks of things we had better pray hard for rain. The situation is very bad.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 8:22:14 PM
Now actually we have plentyof other things that should come first in our thoughts. Our prayers go out to all from 911 and to all of our service men and women and the people who run this great country of ours. And by the looks of things we had better pray hard for rain. The situation is very bad.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 8:22:02 PM
Now actually we have plentyof other things that should come first in our thoughts. Our prayers go out to all from 911 and to all of our service men and women and the people who run this great country of ours. And by the looks of things we had better pray hard for rain. The situation is very bad.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:53:46 PM
I think that a lot of older people had to sell their property becausew they could no longer afford to pay all the taxes. A lot of children take care of their parents. Their are some people who don't have giant pensions and social security. Some people never went to college , so only the ones who went get the bigger moneies.And thats to their credit, they worked for it.I was never encouraged to go , but I urged my children to go.Some people didn't have the money to send their children. So if you were not a rich working man, but a normal working man, you did not earn a lot,so raising your family took almost every dime. I think a lot of people got greedier and greedier, they all wanted big bucks, and a lot of people won't work, they I don't have to work. Sometimes I think we need another tea party. People who don't work, don't pay taxes and so on, soon everything is starting to look pretty bleak.
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:48:49 PM
I agree with you there. My point was that at least some of the rundown houses & blight in that part of Chester took on a nicer look after Weidner bought the properties.
I am sure that most students do not stray too far from the campus, like going into other areas of the city. If they did, they might be in trouble.
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:44:12 PM
Everyone has to pay taxes, but do you seriously believe that the well to do would send thier son/daughter to a location such as Widener? I think not
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:40:48 PM
What happened at Weider was terrible. Again it was what humans do to other humans. Just like the Jack & Jill Ice Cream man who was murdered in Chester the other day.
Most colleges have drugs and booze on campus.
On another note, I am sure that Weidner pays a good share of the city taxes.
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:36:03 PM
Rc who said anything about gas light? Where is Pidipat, we would like to hear her response to what she has started?????
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:28:59 PM
PP, Wrong again! You said that the people who live here are responsible for the high taxes. No it's the taxpayers who moved way, INCLUDING YOU, that caused taxes to go up. The majority of Chester residents, after the "Exodus" of the taxpayers, were either in government housings, and/or on welfare or unemployed and couldn't afford to pay. Only the ones still working for a decent wage were able to pay the taxes. Someone had to. Businesses moved out so that accounted for losses in Revenues. Yes, you and others that left Chester caused the taxes to go up. You got things backwards again.
Name: RC
Email: Email
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:28:01 PM
About gas light. It was a great improvement over what went before but far from perfect. I was around 8 when our house was wired for electricity but I remember it as a very exciting time. With gas, you had to walk into a dark room,feel around for light, get out a match, turn the gas on, light the jet, and then adjust the flow. Mostly, the family spent the evening in one room. In the winter-dinner in the kitchen and evening in the around the table in the dining room. We went to bed in the dark. Of course, summer was a lot better. There was usualy one light in the each room. The glass globe faced up (unlike the electric ficture). The gas flame was concentratrd by a mantel.This was a little dome shaped gadget that was pourous and had to be replaced from time to time. Do you remember the Ingrid Gerbman picture--Gas Light"?
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:14:44 PM
If Weidner wasn't making accomedations for the students they would go elsewhere, so money is the reason, & doubt if they will be around much longer with murders & drugs going on.
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:11:22 PM
I think Weidner has to be commended for buying up those delapidated homes and converting them into dorms and for the buildings they put up. At least that part of Chester is nice to look at. Lot better than looking at rows of rundown homes.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:04:47 PM
Something I did not know that all the houses have been knocked down on second st. and they are or have built a highway. Both sides are torn down. God knows I would love to go back. Back to what.All my family except for my sister and her family, I mean like my mom and dad and grandparents are ll gone. All the people that I grew up with are mostly gone. I have MY husband and children, thats the future for me. The home my mom and dad lived in was bought by Weidner and the other is a wreck. All that's left is cement stones.
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 7:02:41 PM
Florence, Right on. You are absolutely right. Think PP takes every opposing post as a personal attack against her. If you don't agree with her, then she goes on a tangent, interpreting other people's posts in a negative way. Facts are facts. We may not like them but that's reality.
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 6:51:50 PM
PP : Knew you would be attacking the posts written today because we don't agree with your way of thinking. NEGATIVE! OF COURSE WHAT IS THERE IN CHESTER NOW IS ALL NEGATIVE. You can sit by your computer and bash what we are saying, that's your right, but by the same token, we also have a right to post what is fact, not pipe dreams.
With all you pipe dreams about facades, Drug stores, tourists, selling memorbillia, etc. etc.---, again, who in the hell would drive there to buy this BS you are talking about? Who would dare go into a movie house in Chester? Who would park their cars there so they can be stolen? Who desires to be mugged or killed?
Employees dressed in Poodle skirts, peg pants, Oh my goodness girl what drugs are you on?
You see it is only a dream,(not reality) that you wish to come true. You may crusade all you want but I doubt that it will happen. Put your money where your mouth is and buy some property in Chester and you start it up, then see how many people get interested.
Why did the Wilson Line stop their Midnight Dance Cruises? Because people ruined the good times by drinking and fighting. With the Drug situation, can one image a Midnight cruise along the Delaware. I can, it would be chaos if not worse.
What you don't realize, investors don't want to come to Chester. They know the history of why others left the city.
As far as who is responsible for taxes, again how do you know what is going on when you are thousands miles away?
You think you know so much but girl, you are so way off base.
What was will never be again and the "Tourist attraction you talk about in Chester will never happen either. The most one can hope for is Industry to move back, but that is debatable because soooo many moved out to get away from the riff raff and the crime.
Your lengthy post wasn't worth reading because it sounds like a script from a ficticious movie.
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 6:32:44 PM
Florence, thank you, you are right in what you are saying.
Name: FlorenceCHS50
Email: buffyk@fast.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 6:17:12 PM
Pat I know that you mean well, but they tried renewal some time ago. Along with the problems, many business's have left the area, and another giant is about to go midget. Weidner has bought up a lot of buildings and lots for dorms. and etc.I only live 5minutes from Chester, my sister lives right on 18th. st. and her daughter down the road.If they relocated everyone and tore down the complete area, maybe something could be done, but most people have moved on. The taxes are so high in every area, no one has money to fight it.Everyone has their growing up memories in the area that they loved. Everyone must move on. You can't go back. I know we don't want to, but it is the cycle of life. I know that their are very great drug deals out there.It seems that the big people that are head of everything can't seem to stop it. I am not being too negative. It is just the way it is.
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 6:04:36 PM
PP first you were shocked about the air poluters, now is about the decay and drugs??? Chester is a slum city, don't be so surprised...
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Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 5:49:44 PM
The reason you have so many negative comments is because that is all you see if you dare go into Chester. if you have not been there in over 25 years you do not have a clue in what you are talking about. keep reading all the comments because you will get them.
Name: Pat McFadden (CHS '50)
Email: pidipat@earthlink.net
Date: 4/25/2002
Time: 5:38:35 PM
Every post, EVERY POST, since I last posted is NEGATIVE, NEGATIVE, NEGATIVE. As long as you think NEGATIVE, THEN you will continue to have an extremely NEGATIVE downtown Chester. The crime will get worse and before long, the city will really give you something to cry about. Almost EVERY post talks about WHAT IS - try WOULD CAN BE!!!!!! Not one of you has mentioned the "what if's". No wonder the city decayed. I can relate terrible stories right here in Phoenix too - baby drownings almost daily; babies being killed by the mother's "boyfriend"; drive-by shootings, killings, killings, killings. Relating horror stories does not cure anything - CHANGE cures. OK, it happened - what are YOU going to do to try to change things? Yes, YOU, reading this right now.
Don't tell me because I live a few thousand miles away that I don't know what it's like there. We have terrible, terrible crimes right here in Phoenix too. There was also crime when I lived there - unspoken crime. Crime is something we unfortunately must bear. But my heart and hundreds of other hearts are broken over what has happened to a loving, family-oriented, neighbor-takes-care-of-neighbor city. I grew up on the east side till age 10, then the west side to age 18. I went back for a few years in the late 70's. I drove through downtown Chester, by myself, and saw the bleakness. I was there in 1974 with my dad and uncle; my dad shed tears right there on Edgmont Ave. across from the sign "What Chester Makes, Makes Chester". Enough said! You're not living up to your motto. Are you now proud of what you've made of Chester? The minorities didn't do it - you did by permitted them to do it.
You who have remained there all your lives are the ones responsible for those high taxes. You let it happen. I was appalled when I was there in the late 70's with all the taxation, a borough tax, a city tax, taxes on your behind if you left it out all night. Did you have "taxation without representation"? Were you so complacent with your new-found "wealth" - more electronic equipment, a bigger house, a bigger car that you just didn't "vote" that day? The pilgrims had more spunk than you. They were fighters for what they believed in.
I truly resent being called an "outsider" with "no idea of what's going on there". What do you think I'm suggesting? I have noticed that quite a few of you read, but do not "comprehend" what is written. I explain in detail, I know I do, but you twist it. This time I'll post it in big letters, and as long as you taxpayers are the ones who let the powers that be get away with what they did, you still have a chance to change things. If I had the money and the wherewithall, I would be there in a heartbeat to fight what rightfully belongs to every person who contributed to making Chester as "memorable" as it is.
The concept is: "Do not restore Chester back to what it was, that is impossible. MAKE A REPLICA OF OLD DOWNTOWN CHESTER AS A TOURIST ATTRACTION. Many of the buildings would just be facades, the ones catering to tourists would sell memorabilia, there would be a fine dining spot, Whelans or Boyd's Drug Store could be re-opened selling the same identical things they did in the 40's - a genuine shake or malt; even vintage cars from the 40's and '50's - One of the movie houses could be reopened showing movies from that era, the skating rink could be reopened = everything and anything from that era. Employees dressed in "poodle skirts"; the guys in peg pants, DA's, etc. Brochures could be given out indicating other historical spots; the Pusey House, the old Court House, that little cabin by the creek I spoke about - good grief, so much history. This can be a reality, not just a "silly idea on the part of someone who moved away years ago and doesn't understand." I still live there in my heart. Isn't that enough for you?
From what has taken place here in Phoenix, the people whose homes were torn down, were paid more money for their homes than anticipated, AND, they love their new homes (I know 2 people personally).
For crying out loud, if you (the people who have really hung in there) can't see the possibilities, then there is nothing more to be said. If, what I see as a dream, were to come about, I would move there in a heartbeat and love every minute of telling the "tourists" what a great city we used to have, and hope they have enjoyed re-visiting an important part of American history - "the good old days".
I know I'll be attacked for this - I expect it - by those who haven't had an original idea since the day they chose to use the toilet as opposed to their diapers and can only say, "Oh, it's dreadful there, no one would ever liv