1959 Page 9

West Islip High School
Fore N' Aft
1959
Page Nine

Organizations

Senior Class History

We seniors, having completed four years of learning in a lunar age and having successfully overcome technical difficulties are now about to soar into outer space.
As June approaches, signals from "outer space" grow stronger as our rocket increases and speeds along its future path. However, this missle needs powered "fuel" to keep it in orbit, and to enable it to gain altitude. This "fuel", we feel, is composed of the experiences and memories, which we cherish, in our "data recording centers" ticking away like this -- remember the H₂S fire drill -- the Dill Club -- the coffee in Physics -- the Copiague baseball game -- the Panorama of Science -- Mr. M's wig -- the trip to Brookhaven -- "Put it under the lizard" -- dancing in the Higbie Lane gym -- pajama parties -- the door glass breaking in Mr. K's classroom -- the hidden sawed-off shotgun -- the alarm clock in the file drawer -- the Home Ec. room with potato chips and cookies -- parking field #9 -- F.B.I. lectures -- roller skating at Levittown -- Mr. O'Donnell's ruler -- Bonnie's full petticoats -- cheering broken dishes -- Leaders' Club initiations -- the ranking sessions in History -- Dr. S.' Spanish class -- gathering lumber for the Junior Prom -- the arrival of our rings -- the "bull whip" and "gentle voice" -- Blue and Gold Sportsnight -- the teacher and the spider -- Niles retrieving Mary Ellen's shoe -- Bill K. and Andy C. yelling through the heating pipes to students in the Earth Science class -- Mrs. C and her safety pins -- the undefeated football season of 1956 -- riding the service elevators -- the explosions in Chemistry -- swimming practice with "Uncle Dave" -- "Okay boys, ground all planes" -- rain and the girls' playdays -- the guys and their cars -- the caps and gowns -- The Senior Prom -- all the jazz of Class Day -- the Senior Dinner -- the sandy, moonlit beach parties -- another successful year for "Turkey" -- and though we leave in sorrow, we'll treasure always these years as we reminisce together long after Graduation Day.

General Organization

     Can you imagine a football game without a Coke and a hot dog? This year, our General Organization decided to do something about this problem and opened a snack bar during half-time during our home games which under the direction of Mr. Charles Plumer became an immediate success.
     There is always room for more school spirit, but the support behind the sales of our G.O. cards reached a new high over our first attempts last year. The cards entitled the owners to greatly reduced rates at all team meets and games, and General Organization-sponsored activities.
     Under the organization's Constitutional policy to promote and give financial assistance to all clubs charted by the G.O., many students in these clubs have enjoyed extra books and equipment for their respective club needs. Another new project was the distribution of Christmas baskets to 3 appreciative famlies.
     Because we tend to measure our accomplishments by material gains, we must not overlook this fact; that through the cooperative efforts of Student Council members and officers to build a stable General Organization, a spirit of alertness and willingness has been prevalent. We feel that this spirit will pay greater dividends to our student body than all tangible gains.

Boys' Leaders Club

Seventh(Top) Row: Ken Bossung, Briant Notine
Sixth Row: Richard Lind, John Vino, Al Geyer
Fifth Row: Fred Christoffer, Al Bohlert, John Gauerholz, Dick Berman
Fourth Row: Niles Helmboldt, Geoff Matherson, Bill Lutz, Bert Schwartz
Third Row: John Factora, Al Snyder, Warren Halverson, Bob Halsall,
Don Barichak
Second Row: Dave Bradley, George Siciliano, John Horton, Tad Parvin, Richard Wilson, Joe Costa
First Row: Bill Raynor, Frank Whitehouse, Bill Craft, Todd Clist,
Pete Raynor, Tom Kutkiewicz, Bob Matherson, Pete Galietta

The Boys' Leaders Club was organized to improve athletic skills, to develop sportsmanlike conduct and attain leadership ability. A leader's primary function is assisting in the boys' gym classes; however, he may be called upon to aid in supervising at interscholastic athletic events, Field Day, Open House, and any other special events where his services are requested. Through these functions, club members learn to work well with others, and to improve their skills so that they may help others.

Girls' Leaders Club

At a formal tea in November, new members were admitted in our colorful induction ceremony. All members renewed their pledges to act as leaders in dress, school behavior, athletic activities and in the execution of other assigned duties. Leaders participated in the following ways: helping two periods a week in gym classes, guiding tours for "Open House", selling programs and shakers at sports events, officiating at sportsdays, making Christmas bundles for the Red Cross, and helping at the Springfield Exhibition.

School Service Squad

The School Service Squad, composed of one hundred thirty members, was organized in late November when Mr. O'Donnell, our Assistant Principal, outlined the need for such an organization. While the primary function of this group is to serve the school in various capacities, its routine job is the maintenance of orderly traffic in the corridors during the eight periods of the school day. Patrol members are assigned definite posts where they check the passage of transients; thus, they minimize congestion and provide a wholesome atmosphere in the halls. Members of this squad act as ushers for assembly programs and Open House festivities. Serving as the squads initial officers are: Mike Noto, President; Gretchen Fulmer, Vice-President; Diane Davis, Secretary;
Jean Downing, Treasurer.

Aquatics Club

"Keep those lines straight!" "Stay together!"--Those were only a few of the many phrases that were stressed as the Aquatics Club worked in its first water show. Although many of the members were certain that synchronized swimming meant drowning together instead of swimming together, this coed group proved that hard work could lead to successful performance. The "three B's" became the key to the execution of more difficult stunts-- body control, and balance--and by the end of the year, many of the student body could be seen trying to learn them. Somersaults, dolphins, even ballet legs were attempted, as the challenge of somrthing more difficult was presented. Synchronized swimming had come to West Islip!

The Rudder

     "A deadline to meet! The presses must roll." The pressure of an oncoming deadline weighs heavily on the shoulders of our editors. we are revising copy in room 230 and preparing to send this month's stories to press. The editors are deciding how to set up the front page so that it will appeal to the srudent's eyes. The space is limited, but that feature must be included. The hustle in our newsroom continues every day. Sixty people have contributed their efforts to this year's Rudder.
     But we can think back and remember those days when our Rudder was the "Junior Flash", only mimeographed pieces of paper! We, seniors, remember that in our ninth year when our paper graduated to printed form and was titled, "What's My Name?". A short time later, our paper was named The Rudder signifying the power of a newspaper to guide the ideas and interests of the school as a rudder directs a ship. Our small staff (then about 15 people) was very inexperienced, but very anxious. We looked forward to the completion of our new school where we were promised a room to serve as headquarters of our publication. The Rudder appeared that opening day in a new, larger size with an attractive new masthead.
     We were learning new techniques and methods. Visits to the press, participation at meetings of the Suffolk County Scholastic Press Association, and previewing television shows at the Overseas Press Club added to our exciting, journalistic careers.
     The most rewarding experience of the 1957-1958 year when Ruth Lopez accepted The Rudder's first award, Second Honorable Mention, at the Spring meeting, 1958, of the Suffolk County Scholastic Press Association.
     Our Rudder is now an integral part of West Islip High School. Now the efforts of a few have been strengthened by a force of 60 people who do those various jobs. The reporters, cartoonisit, photographers, typists, copyreaders, proofreaders, and editors each contribute their part.
     While we strive to improve each issue, we are striving also to serve the student body and to keep pace with our rapidly increasing student organizations and activities.

Honor Society

Top Row L to R: Karen Brown, Yvonne Bellew, Judith Becker, Patricia Pfenning,
Ellen Rosenthal, Alexis Vitali, Jacqueline Urell, Joan Nolan, Margaret Gottsch,
Pamela Whitcomb
Middle Row L to R: Fred Christoffer, George Siciliano, John Horton, Dennis Jobin,
Richard Berman, Frank Perrini, Albert Geyer, Michael Ryvicker, Arlene Wessner,
Mrs. Abrams and Mr. Waghorn, sponsors
Bottom Row L to R: Judy Horton, Mary Ellen Fielder, Teresa Ryczek, June Druian,
Deanna Dunham, Barrie Lowell, Kathleen Moore, Carol Potts

Because the National Honor Society is the organization which most exemplifies the qualities towards which all students strive, West Islip was proud to receive a charter from the national chapter. Recognition for meritorious scholastic achievement was awarded to nine seniors and eighteen juniors. In an impressive ceremony, these charter members were inducted in the presence of the student body. In addition to their progress in academic areas, these students must display high standards in character, leadership and service.
As a part of a nation-wide group, the West Islip Chapter elected Ellen Rosenthal, President; Mary Ellen Fielder, Vice President; Pat Pfenning, Secretary; and George Siciliano, Treasurer. Under their leadership and with the able direction of faculty advisors, Mrs. Judith Abrams and Mr. Robert Waghorn, we predicted overwhelmingly successful activities for the National Honor Society.

Fok's'l

This September saw the opening of the new school store, Fok's'l, which is operated in conjunction with the Salesmanship and Business Management classes, unde the direction of the Business Education Department.
Our store, like many in Long Island schools, offers practical training to those students who have evidenced an interest in retailing as a vocation, and opens new avenues to some students who hitherto had not thought of selling as a career. Besides the definite educational objectives of Fok's'l, it serves as a convenience for students and teachers alike. Indeed, the school store has been a welcome and popular addition to West Islip High School.

Paintpot and Palettes

Standing from L to R: Virginia Gravesen, Frank Sharapata,
Arlene Gilbert, Carl Johansen, Sue Arink, Pat Sutherland,
Joe Miller, Don Barichak, and Mrs. Beverly Plotkin.
L to R seated: Joyce Capparelli, Marilyn Fowles,
Ellen Jerabek, Sharon Starker, Rose Ann Gambaro,
Linda McGrath

     Busily dipping our brushes into our paintpots and dabbing our palettes, the eighteen students under the supervision Mrs. Beverly Plotkin, have decorated the school's twelve showcases throughout the school year.
     Our club members try to fit into their busy schedules any additional art work asked for by teachers and fellow students. Some of the shwocases the club decorated this year were for the following purposes: The Red Cross, Faculty Basketball Game, Dental Health Week, Yearbook Subscriptions, Student Counsil Advertisement, Christmas and Easter Seasonal Programs, Junior and Senior Proms, and National Honor Society.
     Paint and Pallettes has created a great interest and has proved to be a source of inspiration to all art majors.

Future Nurses

Seated: Mrs. Freeman, Advisor
L to R Standing: Nancy Tuma, President;
Irene Reach, Ann Lanoway, Secretary;
Diane Matwizyck, Barbara Engel, Treasurer
Other Members Not In Picture:
Dianne Ratto, Joyce Duca, Illana Katz,
Margaret Mastriano, KatherineRadigan

     We, of the Future Nurses, have participated in a variety of activities affiliated with the nursing profession. In addition to visiting several hospitals and schools of nursing, we have made cancer badges for the Suffolk County Cancer Committee and assisted with projects for Good Samaritan Hospital. Moreover, part of each day is devoted to practical knowledge gained by working in our health room under the guidance of Mrs. Freeman and Mrs. Kamanski.
     In the Spring of 1958 at Central Islip Hospital, we attended a conference made up of nurses' clubs representing 20 Suffolk high schools. On December 2, 1958, a conference was held here at West Islip; Mr. Coulter extended a welcome to Mrs. McLaughlin, Director of the School of Nursing at Central Islip who spoke to us and introduced the student nurses from three nursing schools.
     Because our chief aim is the direction of high school students toward the nursing profession, we are proud to announce that in September, Nancy Tuma will enter St. Mary's Hospital School of Nursing, Brooklyn, New York, and Barbara Engel will enter South Hampton School of Nursing, South Hampton, Long Island.

Future Teachers

Standing L to R:Yvonne Bellew, Judy McLaughlin,
Terry Ryczek, Barbara Hakiel, Carol Ney,
Priscilla Brown, Diane Matwizcyk,
Mrs. Brasso-Advisor, Nancy Newton, Linda McKay,
Jackie Geyer, Sue Gerber, Nancy Coker, Pat Murray
Sitting L to R: June Druian, Mary Lou Cassella,
Carol Schenck, Ellen Rosenthal, Jackie Urell,
Roberta Reilly, Donna Root

     The main objective of the Future Teachers of America is to encourage and enlighten prospective teachers among our students. It aims through social and educational means, to bring about a better understanding and insight into the teaching profession--its opportunities and its rewards.
     Listening to the varied opinions of teachers from different educational fields has been especially interesting and informative. We plan to visit Hunter College and view a typical "college day" while touring the campus. We also intend to carry on the tradition begun last year, of holding a tea in honor of the faculty to close the school year.
     Among the seniors who plan to attend State Teachers' Colleges in the Fall are: Mary Lou Cassella, Oneonta; Nancy Coker, Oneonta; June Druian, Albany; Jackie Geyer, Oswego; Judy McLaughlin, Brockport; Roberta Reilly, Oswego; Donna Root, Oneonta; Ellen Rosenthal, Oyster Bay; Carol Schenck, New Paltz; Jackie Urell, Oswego; Pam Whitcomb, Albany; Nancy Schwartz, Buffalo; and Diane Kublin, Syracuse University.

You Can't Take It With You

Fore 'N Aft

The tedious work of organizing layout, the last minute shuffling to replace pictures, the copy that came in late, the artistic touches for divider pages were some of our tasks. However, the friendly, joyous, informal atmosphere which was always prevalent when we were together made no job tiresome; each one was tackled with gusto, determination and enthusiasm. The staff thoroughly enjoyed working together in the true spirit of friendship which genuinely prevailed as we diligently struggled to compile the 1959 Fore N' Aft.

.....


Editor...............................Lyn Ferguson Co-Editor......................Pam Whitcomb Art Editor........................Diane Kublin Sports Editor..........George Siciliano Business Manager....Steve Johnson Chief Staff Writer........Myra Stein Typists...........................Dot Griebling ....................................Barbara Bauman

Music

Senior Orchestra

Top Row: Stephen Abrams, Louella Thompson, John Canfora, Gerry Abrams, MaryAnn Sosnicki, Frank Weilbacker, Robert Everett, Mike Davis, John Winn, Phil Polson
Middle Row: Robert Harris, Bruce Smith, MaryAnn Gattuso, Mae Fondboe, Judy Weinstein, Ona Madsen, Judy Stein, William Sosnicki
Bottom Row: Mr. Rague, Virginia Chiappe, Frank Cassara, Carolee Frankel, Anne Worman, Wilbur Knorr, Mildred McGuire, Barbara Ruggiero, Randy Smith, Susan Hanify, John Seaton, Stephen Brooks
Absent: Kenneth Wagner, Peter Ruffett, Marjorie Freeman, Bob Schmidt

Mr. Rague and his forty piece orchestra follow an active schedule as they play for assemblies, elementary school programs, graduation, Christmas and Spring Festivals. At daily rehearsals the members maintain musical fitness as they vary the tempo from tangos to symphonies. This outstanding organization boasts of Anne Worman, who participated in the Buffalo All-State Orchestra, and Ken Wagner, our senior trumpeter who is a member of the Pep Band, Dance Band, Marching Band and Orchestra.

Senior Chorus

Top Row L to R: Margaret Russo, Marie Dudenhausen, Anne Panico, Joan McCarthy, Idrise Skinner, Nancy Siebel, Peggy Engel, Barbara Schultz, Carole Maher, Priscilla Preston, Cecilia Harrigan, Mildred McGuire, Arlene Morgan, Peggy MacNeil
Center Row L to R: Grace Frank, Theresa Risvik, Barbara Frank, Alice Eppy, Gerry Capperelli, Anita Kolodey, Santina Gagliardo, Karen Linsenbarth, Carol Reiman, Nancy Schwartz, Jean Lustig, Janet Tuma, Maureen Price, Diane Ratto, Anne Worman
Bottom Ror L to R: Judy Brown, Gretchen Fulmer, Sue Gerber, Joan Billings, Ruth L'Hommedieu, Sharon Starker, Mr. Beliles, Mary Ann Sosnicki, Jane McCarthy, Carolee Frankel, Caroline Mapes, Barbara Ruggiero
Pianist--Lucy Gerunda

Each day after school, the girls' senior chorus rehearses under the direction of Mr. George Beliles. If one were present in the music wing any afternoon, one would witness the high caliber harmony of this group. After a delightful performance at the Christmas Festival, the chorus began preparing for the annual Spring Concert which took place on March 20, 1959 in the high school auditorium. This program featured Barbara Ruggiero as soloist and our ever popular "Sextette Plus One". The vocalists of the senior chorus have established such an enviable reputation that the student body enthusiastically receives all its music making.

Dance Band

Top: Fred Papa
Middle Row L to R: Mr. Cleveland, Fred Salazar, John Canfora, Bob Everett, Phil Polson, Jack Winn
Bottom Row L to R: Lucy Gerunda, Steve Brook, Jack Mirabell, Randy Smith, Frank Weilbacher, Bill Sosnicki, Joe Azzara
Absent: Ken Wagner, James White

When we hear the Dance Band, it is very trying to remain seated. The contagious rhythm of this syncopated group releases our energy in the form of applause for more catchy tunes. Mr. Cleveland, our Music Director, has skillfully shaped these students into a first rate swing group. Performing in all music functions, but most particularly at dances, the Dance Band makes each musical program a sparkling success.

Pep Band

4th Row(Top) R to L: Mr. John Paserb, Stephen Abrams, John Wernet, Douglas Gwyer
3rd Row R to L: Fred Salazar, Gerry Abrams, Pat Martucci, Paul Glasser, Richard Peterson, Dir. Randolph Smith
2nd Row R to L: Roy Lanning, Bill Sosnicki, Jim Larsen, Bill Glasser, Judy McLaughlin, Lorraine Trim, Joyce Heikkila
1st Row R to L: Bob Everett, Phil Polson, Jack Winn, Mike Davis, Renee Crepeau, Judy Weinstein, Mae Fondboe, Carol Potts
Absent: Janice Starker, Ronald Kutkiewicz, Peter Ruffett, Mary DeMayo, Ken Wagner

How proud we feel at footballs games as we watch our seventy piece marching band stride across the field and play in precision formations. Led by twirling majorettes resplendant in their new white and gold uniforms, the band music swells our spirit and inspires us to say "Congratulations, Mr. Paserb". In addition to playing at school events, the West Islip Band adds color and excitement to the community when it participates in civic ceremonies, such as the Memorial Day Parade and the Post Office Dedication.

1959
Organizations and Music
Page 9

1959 Page 1 Friendship	1959 Page 2 Dedication Administration	1959 Page 3 Seniors A-E	1959 Page 4 Seniors F-K	1959 Page 5 Seniors L-P
1959 Page 6 Seniors R-W	1959 Page 7 Faculty Pages 1-4	1959 Page 8 Faculty Pages 5-9	1959 Page 10 Sports	1959 Page 11 Memories Appreciation

1958
Fore N' Aft

1960
Fore 'N Aft

This site is created, owned and operated by Marjorie Klug 1960.

It is not associated with the
West Islip Union Free School District.