Woodrow Wilson High School Alumni Update - February 2010
http://www.wilsonalumni.com
Don't miss your upcoming reunion - make sure to check the reunion section below.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
1991 GRADUATE, SERVING AS SOLDIER-STATESMEN
Dawood Luqman graduated from Wilson in 1991. He attended the University of Portland in the Fall of 1991 and subsequently joined the Army ROTC program in the Fall of 1992 to earn a scholarship. He majored in Life Sciences and graduated with a commission in US Army as a 2nd Lieutenant of Infantry in 1996. Dawood is now a Major in the US Army currently stationed in Hawaii as a South Asia Foreign Area Officer. To learn more about Dawood's journey, go to: http://www.wilsonalumni.com/alumni-spotlight/luqman.html.
2009 GRAD GOES TO COLLEGE TO FOSTER A CLIMATE OF EQUALITY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL
Josie Newhall ’09 is attending PCC and working towards an Early Childhood Education degree. Josie is thrilled to have been accepted into PCC’s Illumination Project, which uses interactive social justice theater as a venue to address issues that traditionally have made education more difficult for students of color, female students, low income students, and immigrant and sexual minority students. Josie loved her time at Wilson and wants to thank all of her great teachers and the administration for believing in her. Special thanks goes to Wilson counselor Julie Fleming and Wilson parent and alum David Jacobsen (’73) for writing powerful letters of recommendation on her behalf. Congratulations also to grandparents Dorothy and Bert Brehm (parents of 6 Wilson grads) and grandparents David and Gerry Newhall (parents of 5 Wilson grads- Gerry and David both passed away several years ago). Note: Gerry was Wilson's Activities Director in the early 70s.
WHAT ABOUT THOSE "GRADES"?
Ronald Lewis attended Wilson High from 1958 through 1959. He moved from Portland and then graduated from Santa Barbara High School. Even though he did not graduate from Wilson, Ron has some vivid memories of his time on campus. Ron tells us that while attending Wilson High, he brought home the best of grades, mostly C's, D's, and a good number of "F"s." "I can remember one semester where I brought home five "F"s. My mom nearly fainted, and started to drink that day (only that day); I can fully understand why. Why was I such a poor student remains a mystery." According to Ron, he "didn't wake up to the very importance of having a good education along with achieving good grades in school until graduating from Santa Barbara High. To show you that it can be done, I eventually graduated from college with a degree in electronic engineering. From there, I went back to school and graduated with a diploma in 'Missile & Spacecraft Guidance'. The hard work of achieving goals of which I never dreamed would happen was worth every hour spent studying for those goals." Ron is now living in Lompoc, California and is fully retired at age 65. Now, he enjoys day trading. Ron has been an active day trader for almost 30 years. Ron has kept in touch with a few folks from Wilson High School (including good friend Roger Cain '61) and sends "best of luck to each everyone" from his past.
CHRONICLES OF THE APOCALYPSE: REVENGE, EVERYTHING IS NOTHING
Wilson High 2007 grad Zach Richardson read from his book: Chronicles of the Apocalypse: Revenge, Everything is Nothing on December 9, 2009 in the Wilson High School Library during lunch. The community was invited to come and hear Zach talk about his book, how he wrote it, and how he published it. Click here to read more about his book and his inspiring journey: http://www.wilsonalumni.com/alumni-spotlight/richardson.html. Congratulations, Zach!
LOVE OF FAST CARS
Bill Murray '69 is a lifetime fixture of Terwilliger Heights and continues to live in his ancestral home. He owns his own garage, Master Mechanics Incorporated, in Sellwood and loves fast cars. There's a lot more to this story. To read more about Bill and his journey since high school, go to: http://www.wilsonalumni.com/alumni-spotlight/murray.html.
WILSON GRAD AND MUSICIAN
Joe Powers '96 was nominated for a Portland Music Award for "Outstanding Achievement in World Music" and performed Astor Piazzolla's "Libertango" at the awards ceremony at the Crystal Ballroom with members of Trio Subtonic on January 28, 2010. He has several performances coming up: On February 13, Joe will perform at the Portland "Valentango" Festival (one of the largest Tango festivals in North America)... with a Tango Trio, consisting of Japan's top Tango pianist, Naoko Aoki and also the talented Japanese Tango/Flamenco guitarist, Chiei Kobayashi... other special guests will include Oregon Symphony, assistant concert master, Erin Furbee on violin, Trio Subtonic's Jesse Brooke on percussion, and Portland's own Tango guru, Alex Krebs, on Bandoneon. On February 14, Joe will have a guest appearance with Michael Allen Harrison for his "Kiss me with Chocolate" concert at the Portland Art Museum Grand Ballroom for the release of his new Tango album, on which Joe is a featured artist. The PSU Center for Japanese Studies proudly presents ”朱へ” Vermillion Passion), a concert featuring Japanese Koto master Mitsuki Dazai and International Harmonica Virtuoso, Joe Powers '96, Wednesday, February 17 at 7:30pm (Doors Open 7:00pm) at The Old Church,1422 SW 11th (11th & Clay). Advance tickets are available at Shogun's Gallery (503) 224-0328, $15 student / $20 General Advance / $25 at the door. Purchase tickets online www.shogunsgallery.com. Here's a video from last September 2009 Joe played at Sonny Newman's in Seattle. Astor Piazzolla's, "Oblivion": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0Tzyfpc1v4. Joining them as special guest artists are the NY based Shakuhachi grand master, James Schlefer and the Tokyo based Tango pianist, Naoko Aoki.
2009 WILSON GRADUATE FAST TRACKED AT UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
The Wilson High School Mathematics Department recently received a letter from The University of Chicago. Alex Rabchuk, Department Chair, was informed that Ian Alevy '09 was one of a select few University of Chicago freshmen who were placed ahead one full year in their University mathematics program this Autumn. Wilson "has contributed significantly to this student's progress in mathematics... we respect and appreciate the excellent teaching of mathematics being one in your Department," adds Diane Hermann, Co-Director of Undergraduate Studies, The University of Chicago. Job well done to the Wilson Math Department, and congratulations to the Alex and his parents, Martin & Bilha Alevy.
1995 GRAD PERFORMS IN COSI FAN TUTTE
Angela Niederloh '95 (Mezzo-soprano) returns to the Portland Opera starring in Così fan tutte, as Dorabella. Acclaimed by The New York Times as “an exciting coloratura mezzo-soprano,” Angela Niederloh is in demand by opera, concert and recital presenters across the United States. A compelling stage presence, Miss Niederloh has garnered praise for her performances in a wide range of repertoire. Angela's recent engagements with the Portland Opera include: The Journey To Reims, 2004; The Magic Flute, 2007; Cinderella, 2007; La Calisto, 2009. Performance dates for Così fan tutte: February 5, 2010 at 7:30 pm; February 7, 2010 at 2:00 pm; February 11, 2010 at 7:30 pm; February 13, 2010 at 7:30 pm. To purchase tickets through Portland Opera, call 503-241-1802. Angela played many parts while a student at Wilson, among them Bonnie in Anything Goes, Maggie in The Man Who Came to Dinner, Celia in As You Like It, and Olive in the female version of The Odd Couple. She was also on the Thespian Board, Improv Team, and a member of the Senior Vocal Ensemble under the direction of Becky Thompson. Click here to read more about Angela: http://www.portlandopera.org/operas/2009-2010/cosi-fan-tutte#tabs-6.
SHARE YOUR STORY
Send us the details on where/what you have been doing since graduating from Wilson, and we'll post in an upcoming WWHS Alumni Update e-newsletter. Send details to Linda Doyle.
ALUMNI RECALL WILSON'S PAST
HISTORIC BUILDING ASSESSMENT OF WILSON HIGH SCHOOL AND OTHER SCHOOLS
As part of the school district’s effort to modernize its school facilities to fully support our community’s educational goals, PPS has completed a detailed historical survey of its properties, titled the Historic Building Assessment. We invite you to have a look at this fascinating report on Wilson High School, which details the valuable historic elements of our cherished school building. Click here to read more about wilson: http://www.pps.k12.or.us/files/schoolmodernization/Wilson_ILS.pdf. Click here to read about one of the other buildings where you attended school: http://www.pps.k12.or.us/departments/schoolmodernization/1627.htm.
MESSAGES FROM CLASSMATES
1959 GRAD ENJOYS WWHS NEWS
Thanks so much! I really enjoyed reading about the Wilson news and people. Sure wish my husband and I could have attended the '59 reunion. The timing just wasn't right for us this year. Sincerely, Sue McCaskey Richardson '59
LIFE-LONG FRIENDS FROM WILSON
It was great to be at Wilson during those years of 1960 through 1964. Academics, teachers, students, neighborhood, athletics and social interaction were great. Still have lots of life-long friends from the school. Greg Stadler '64
LOOKING FOR WILDT '63
I have been searching for "Sharon K. Wildt". Anyone with information on her where-abouts, please contact GsGsjeep@wbhsi.net . Gordon L. Giffin '64
LOOKING FOR BARTON BROWN '66
I am looking for Barton Brown (Class of 1966) last known address in Northern California- last seen at reunion in 1996. There is no response from the last California address. He had brothers in upper classes but I don't know their names. He was friends with Louis Nunez from South America and on rally and a gymnast. His mother had moved to Canby but I can no longer find her either. Pat Murray '66 (ricktrishk@msn.com)
1961 GRAD LOOKING FOR YEARBOOK
Tom Adams '61 lost his senior yearbook. After years of looking, he is wondering if any classmates/teachers out there might have a spare copy of the 1961 yearbook. He would be happy to pay for postage charges. If you can help Tom out, contact him at: Tom Adams, 2109 S. Balfour Blvd., Spokane Valley, WA. 99206, 509-999-6004, or thadams99@msn.com.
STILL LOOKING FOR 1977 YEARBOOK
So this will sound very wired maybe ... I was attending the class of 1977 reunion for our 20th. I believe it was at the Montgomery Park Center. Well I had to fly out quickly that weekend following the softball game at Pier Park, and I left my 1977 Yearbook there without thinking about it till days later, but I had no contacts for checking on it. If you could email me if found @ slarsen@nikon.net. I would appreciate it tons. That year was very fun for me and would appreciate the return of that book whom ever found it laying on a table or at the BAR!! Scott Larsen '77
IN MEMORY OF
KNOWN CLASSMATES/TEACHERS NO LONGER WITH US
Please send an email with details to Linda Doyle if you have an obituary that should be posted here. Below is a list of classmates who have passed away. Here are the names for those who have just been added to the list:
Jack Hewitt '83
John Jeff Miller (Wilson and Jackson teacher)
George Stevens '64
Kara Jean Cox '03
Read more about classmates, teachers, community members who have passed away...
REUNIONS
CLASS OF 2000 TO HOLD 10-YEAR REUNION ... AUGUST 21, 2010
CLASS OF 1990 TO HOLD 20-YEAR REUNION ... AUGUST 13-14, 2010
CLASS OF 1980 TO HOLD 30-YEAR REUNION ... JULY 30, 2010
CLASS OF 1970 TO HOLD 40-YEAR REUNION ... AUGUST 27, 2010
CLASS OF 1965 TO HOLD 45-YEAR REUNION ... JUNE 18, 2010
CLASS OF 1960 TO HOLD 50-YEAR REUNION ... SEPTEMBER 10-11-12, 2010
Click here for all the reunions and the latest details.
CURRENT STUDENT BODY
There are so many ways to support the current Wilson High School students. You can contribute to individual programs, you can attend athletic and performing arts events, or you can volunteer to help clean up the campus, just to name a few. If you would like to help the next generation of Wilson graduations, please contact Erica Meyers, WHS Business Manager, at emeyers@pps.k12.or.us.
WILSON PLANT AND ORGANIC VEGETABLE SALE FUNDRAISER sponsored by Wilson PTA
Attention All Gardeners! Do not miss Wilson's Spring Plant and Organic Vegetable Sale Fundraiser! Spring is the perfect time to plant, then sit back and wait for the explosion of color. These are great presents for Mother's Day. Select from a wide variety of annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, planters, and organic vegetables in all price ranges! Ninety percent of the proceeds from your order will go directly to your favorite group/program at Wilson. The Wilson PTA will receive the remaining proceeds. The profit margin for Wilson is approximately 30% of each sale. Choose and check off your favorite group below to receive the proceeds from your order.
Order Dates:
Plant Sale begins, Monday, March 29, 2010
Plant Sale ends, Friday, April 9, 2010
Delivery Date: Friday, May 7, 2010. Pick-up Time: 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Location: Wilson High School
1151 SW Vermont, in the Foyer just inside the front door
Event Contacts:
Jaci Evans (503-246-5461, jle184@comcast.net)
Linda Doyle (lsdoyle@earthlink.net)
WILSON JAZZ PIANIST'S PASSION FOR MUSIC
Senior Jazz Band Member Ryan Wolfe '10 played at Jimmy Mak's in Portland on Tuesday, December 8 with the PDX Jazz Project. The legendary Mel Brown Septet followed with a performance at 8:00pm ($6.00 cover). Ryan has been a member of Portland Public School music programs since 7th grade. His love for jazz was initially inspired and encouraged by Jackson Middle School Band Director, David Stone. Since then he has studied jazz music at Wilson High School with Paul Jolstead, Metropolitian Youth Jazz Orchestra, The Alan Jones Academy of Music, The PDX Jazz Project, Portland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Portland State University, and with private instructors Gordon Lee, Farnell Newton, Randy Porter, and Alan Jones. In 2009 he was a member of the All State Honor Band and was a finalist for the 2009 Grammy Band. He has been selected for the 2010 Oregon Music All-State Honor Jazz Band. PDX Jazz Project is an organization for youth ages 13 to 18, designed to preserve & forward the history of jazz music through performance, education and community events. Developing and maintaining a multicultural, jazz education program in metropolitan Portland, Oregon. According to Downbeat Magazine, Jimmy Mak's is "one of the top 100 paces to hear jazz." Congratulations, Ryan!
DONATE ITEMS FOR WILSON AUCTION
The Wilson All-School Auction will be held Saturday, April 10, 2010 at the Multnomah Athletic Club. This event will bring our entire school community together to celebrate a wide variety of outstanding programs at Wilson from music to athletics, drama, academic programs, student clubs and more. The success of this auction is dependent upon the generous contributions of goods and services from local merchants and community members like you. Whether you are a long-time donor or a newcomer to this event, we want you to know how much we appreciate your support, especially in these difficult economic times. We are requesting that you join us in support of Wilson programs by donating merchandise, services, gift certificates, or anything else that you feel would generate lively bidding among auction attendees. All donations are tax deductible and will be acknowledged in the auction catalog. Cash donations are always welcome as well. Please help our students become productive, active members of our community. With community support, and parent and staff participation last year’s auction was a huge success. We’re gearing up to do it again….for the kids. Click here to find the donation form: http://wilson.pps.k12.or.us/.docs/pg/10325.
WILSON HIGH SCHOOL PRESCHOOL NOW ENROLLING FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR
The Wilson High School Preschool is now enrolling for the 2010-2011 school year. The Wilson High School Preschool Program gives Wilson students the opportunity to learn and implement developmentally appropriate practices and creative curriculum to 3-5 year old children. Under the direction of a certified teacher, preschoolers work one-on-one with mentor students giving both the high school student and the preschooler a beneficial learning experience. Please visit our website for more information http://www.wilson.pps.k12.or.us/.docs/pg/10277.
STAY IN TOUCH
WWHS ALUMNI - WEBSITE
Check out the WWHS Alumni website and don't forget to complete the simple online form to join the WWHS Alumni database. To help us reach as many graduates as possible, please consider adding the link to our website (http://www.wilsonalumni.com/) from your website. Pass the word along to your Wilson High School classmates about the Wilson High School Alumni website and the opportunity to register. Tell your friends.
SPAM OR UNSUBSCRIBE
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