Office on South Main "in the way" of the developer

FSW Saga--excluding hearsay!

Known Facts about FSW Property as of 12.27.07

2000 Comprehensive Plan designates FSW property to be zoned from Industrial to Residential when FSW no longer viable.

Several years ago , the owner of the house at 516 South Main Street, immediately south of the FSW property, was denied rezoning to Commercial to remain in compliance with 2000 Comprehensive Plan.

2007 DRAFT Comprehensive Plan designates FSW property mixed use. Plan not yet adopted.

On October 9, 2007, Magellan Properties registered the deed of the site previously owned by FSW property with the county. The deed indicates a restriction against residential use and residential development.

On November 20, 2007 The Planning Commission held a public hearing at which Magellan Properties presented a concept plan and requested a rezoning to C-2 of the FSW site, plus the house immediately to the north at 416 South Main Street. The response of Carl Schmult, planning consultant to the Planning Commission, is taken from the official minutes of the meeting and follows:

“Carl Schmult read his report regarding the proposal. The request for C-2 zoning does not support what is in the current Comprehensive Plan nor is it consistent with the Comprehensive Plan that is about to be adopted, His opinion is that while the site it not viable any longer for Industrial and probably should be rezoned, it should stay consistent with your Master Plan. You either need to deny that request or change your Master Plan. In addition, based on the current Master Plan, and the one ready to be adopted, the rezoning should not include the residential parcel to the north. The Future Land Use map in both versions leaves that parcel residential. The applicant could apply for PUD zoning which would assure mixed use, have a specific layout, establish architectural features, and enhance the character and treatment of the edges of the site which abuts surrounding residences. If you allow C-2 zoning it does not necessarily mean you will get what is shown tonight. Anything under C-2 would be allowed. A decision will have to be made on what the Planning Commission and City Council want to do with the rezoning of both the residential property to the north, and the Federal Screw property. This should be done before the Comprehensive Plan is adopted. It is suggested that this be discussed at the Joint Meeting with City Council. There is a deed restriction between the old owners of Federal Screw and the purchaser Rene Papo which states that because of contamination no residential development can take place on site. Mr. Schmult said that the City’s stand on this issue should not be based on a deal between two people. Yes there is contamination, but the possibility does exist that it could be cleaned up and used as residential.”

• Many neighborhood residents urged the Planning Commission not to grant C-2 rezoning, citing increased traffic congestion as a concern, lighting spillage, interruption of the neighborhood, in general.

• Many other Chelsea citizens presented reasons that the entire site should not be leveled as proposed by the Magellan Properties concept plan. The site has been a factory complex since 1916 until the Chelsea Division of FSW went out of business in 2005--receiving awards from the Army and Navy for quality production during World War 2 and playing an important part in the history of Chelsea. In particular, reasons for rehabbing and reuse of the two corner office buildings were given: architectural uniqueness that serves as points of interest that would be examples of preserving historic places as frequently cited in the 2007 draft Comprehensive Plan for the purpose of Chelsea as a destination.

The draft Comprehensive Plan and rezoning request were tabled.

On November 29, 2007, The Chelsea Standard published an extensive piece written by Kathy Clark on page 4-A: An Industrial Landmark: Federal Screw Works employed hundreds in heyday.

On December 4, 2007, a work session to review the 2007 draft Comprehensive Plan was held between the Planning Commission and City Council. No changes to the proposed mixed use zoning for the FSW site were suggested.

On December 28, 2007, the Planning Commission held a second public hearing to consider the 2007 draft Comprehensive Plan and rezoning request by Magellan Properties.

Citizens individually addressed the proposed rezoning of the FSW property for multiple reasons:

• Historic significance of the factory to Chelsea
• Architectural significance of the two office buildings to Chelsea’s unique and historic building inventory
• Neighbors object to C-2 zoning in general
• Brownfield money is available to mitigate contaminants that are cited in 11/8/07
• Base line environmental assessment submitted to DEQ-this could be accomplished to allow residential development
• Other monies are available for the purpose of rehabbing and reuse the two offices;
• knowledgeable people are willing to assist with this process IF Magellan Properties indicates motivation to pursue these options
• Washtenaw County is a certified local government and can write a proposal for a

project, pledge matching dollars for the project, and submit their proposal to the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office as part of the competitive pool for that federal money. The projects can be bricks and mortar or planning projects.

• The federal tax credits are available to developers who are rehabilitating a building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and who will be using it commercially. The federal tax credits are only available for commercial use--stores, etc. However, rentals are considered commercial use--it is a building that is depreciable. So what many developers do is develop a project, rent out the residential portion for 5 years (the tax credit recapture period lasts 5 years), and then they convert their residential units to condos after that

• The concept of “Chelsea as a destination” was expressed by business owner, Tom Diab-

“As the owner of the Gourmet Chocolate Cafe located in the Clocktower

Complex, I know from experience that people who come to Chelsea

are drawn to the unique charm of the old buildings. Eight out of ten

people come into the Gourmet Chocolate Cafe as they are walking

around town in the summer. Chelsea businesses benefit from architecture

that is distinctive with historical meaning.

The Comprehensive Plan and zoning can determine what happens

on the FSW site. Historic ambience is a quality that can be used

in marketing Chelsea as a destination.”

• Two organizational letters of support for rehabbing and reusing the two offices

buildings were read and submitted-

Chelsea Area Historical Society and Chelsea Depot Association

A work session between the Planning Commission and Magellan Properties was requested by the developer. TBA This can be observed by interested parties with no public comment.

What was your favorite part of "the holiday"?

Note: politically correct question....Okay, I'll start: My favorite part was watching my two grandgirls be angels in the impromptu Christmas children's nativity play. They are already angelic-looking, so it wasn't difficult to believe they were angels with their set of wings strategically placed on their backs.

When I lived in Canada, we also celebrated "Boxing Day"...a hangover from the Brits. That was a time one took presents to relatives out to relatives and friends in the country. All stores were still closed. A far cry from the rapid returns people do now! Not to mention the exchanges and after Christmas sales already underway!

If you can't respond by signing in, just post by using "anonymous" and sign your name at the bottom.

Wishing you an old-fashioned Christmas from 1945

Rural schoolhouse project

For those of you who went a rural school, you can schedule an interview by calling 734 475 9242. For those of you living outside the area, you probably could arrange a phone interview!

Nancy Irwin's Surprise Birthday Party

Finally, I have remembered something that Sandy Weber doesn't remember! (It's tough moving back to a place your brain practically deleted when you graduated from high school.) Today, Sandy and I were talking about surprise birthday parties, because one was held last Tuesday for Mary Kathryn Weber on the occasion of her 82 birthday.

I asked Sandy if she remembered what happened at Nancy Irwin's surprise birthday party. To my surprise, Sandy said she remembers being out in the country, but she doesn't remember what happened. Here are some choices of what happened:

A. Nancy fainted and her mother had to revive her
B. Nancy didn't show up when she was supposed to
C. Nancy started to cry and ran outside
D. Nancy went in the closet and won't come out

What do you think happened?

impotance continued (written by Byron's cousin!)

Importance of the two office buildings of FSW

First Federal Screw Works office built in 1919

Quiz

Jim Grau was overheard at Thompson's pizza telling a story about being expelled from a certain math class for a week. It seems that three other boys received the same treatment. Jim said he, Karl, Byron, and a fourth person spent the week playing cards during the hour at Karl's house while banned from the class. Karl told his dad that they had done so well on a math test that they didn't need to go to class for the entire week.

Question: Who was the unnamed fourth person?

Chelsea Standard article on FSW

Federal Screw Building

This is a blotter produced in the early 1900s to advertise the FSW--earlier named Chelsea Screw Company. The building in the far right corner was the original office built in 1919. That building, plus the other office building on Congdon are classic! You can also see the interurban running through the site.

Federal Screw Works site

To: City of Chelsea Planning Commissioners and Magellan Properties

From: Janet Bernath, 238 Harrison Street, Chelsea

Date: November 20, 2007

Re: The Federal Screw Works property

I was born in Chelsea at 138 East Middle Street in 1940 during the brief time the house at that address served as a hospital. I graduated from Chelsea High School in 1958—a member of the last class to graduate from the high school on Harrison Street. The school complex was later demolished in 1987, and now four ordinary apartment buildings and parking lots are there. No visible links to the past remain on that site except a small, cement ledge once a part of an outdoor court area.

Upon graduation from high school, I left Chelsea. I chose to return to Chelsea almost two years ago after a 47 year absence. My decision to return was based on the kind of community Chelsea has become with:

• extraordinary opportunities for learning at the library and the Adult Learning Institute and active organizations that address current social issues and explore our past
• a wide array of art, theater and music, downtown festivals, and good restaurants to enjoy

This time I chose Chelsea, and I’m reveling in the place of my birth. Friends who now visit me in Chelsea love the architecture, galleries, shops, restaurants, and think I’m lucky to have relocated here. My friends always spend money here and contribute to the local economy.

My father, uncle and grandfather worked at the Federal Screw Works. Certainly our family economy was affected by the existence of the Federal Screw Works, as were the economies of many other families in the Chelsea area. Dad invented machine parts for production, even naming one of them, “The Martin Pick-Off Attachment” in honor of his grandfather. (See attached)

Why is my family’s story important? The story represents one of many families touched by the long industrial history of the company. Federal Screw Works was a part of the rich industrial history of Chelsea. (See attached summary of Chelsea’s Federal Screw Work History written by Kathy Clark and edited by Cary Church from the archives of Chelsea Area Historic Society)

For a time, my dad had a room in the old office building facing Main Street. Even as a child I thought it quite unique and special, but little did I know that the building was built in 1919 and is a fine example of the Victorian industrial style.

The office on Congdon Street was the management office—the “front office” was the term Dad used, I think. Built in 1925, it is representative of the “Art Deco” style and is one of the few of that style remaining in Chelsea.

These two office buildings on Federal Screw Works property are historically and architecturally significant and worth being saved and adaptively reused.

Chelsea’s northern gateway with its industrial and architectural heritage has been enhanced by McKinley Properties. The Clocktower Complex sets the stage for entry into the downtown area. Magellan Properties now has an opportunity to enhance the industrial and architectural heritage of the Federal Screw Works property along the southern gateway into the downtown area.

If done with sensitive care of our historical assets, the development of the Federal Screw Works site would serve as a tangible link from the past for future generations and positively affect Chelsea as a destination. I urge Magellan Properties to save and adaptively reuse the historically significant buildings of the Federal Screw Works complex as opposed to demolition.

Direction

Hmmm.....I think this picture was taken looking east from East Street. What do you think?

Chelsea Area One Room School House Project

The Chelsea District Library, Chelsea Senior Center, and Chelsea Area Historic Society have a grant from the Chelsea Community Foundation to document activities of the rural one room schools in the area. I went to Reimenschneider (sp??) School near Cavanaugh Lake for kindergarten but that was all. My biggest recollection of that is walking past the very scary cows and marsh (where I thought Briar Rabbit lived) on my way to school.

I know that Doug Collyer went there longer. I believe several in our class had longer careers in one room school houses.

If you would like to participate in this effort to document history, please contact Tina Patterson and/or Kay Heller at the Chelsea Senior Center: 734 475 9242 or by email at: chelseaseniors@aol.com .

Just think, we're history!

Here's something to collectively brag about...

It seems that the FIRST brick for the Chelsea Depot restoration project has been installed. Perhaps you'd like to make a contribution to the second one (a donation to the second has already been made...)

For more donations to our second class brick, please send them to me: 238 Harrison, Chelsea 48118. For your very own brick, see the letter head.

What you braggin' 'bout?

Now I know everyone has something to brag about...okay, it doesn't have to be grandchildren. Could be having a successful hip replacement. How many Trick or Treaters you had at your door!

That's better!

Grandgirl #2 just colored a pumpkin in Uptown Chelsea and never even thought about getting her hair done! This store section of the Chelsea New Market will soon be occupied. Grandgirl #2 didn't really like the sushi tasting, but her grandmother did!

Now, it's your turn to brag. In keeping with Ron's lobby to brag, categories are wide open. Just keep it clean. What are you proud of currently?

Wait a minute!

Is this what a six year old should be doing? Looking sixteen?

New section--braggin' 'bout somethin'

Okay, I admit it: My daughter is gorgeous--as you can readily see. And, my grandgirl #1 was just in a wedding as a flower girl--this is every six year old girl's dream.

Poll #2

Check out the new poll (on the right side of the blog). Once again, you have to reflect on your life a bit before answering. You know me, I like to make people think! As before, anyone checking this site is welcome to vote. Let's see if we can get MORE than 15 responses (that's how many people voted on our last poll). All you have to do to vote is click on the dot and then push the "vote" button. No one can find out how you voted. You can also change your vote if you want before the poll ends. Have fun!

Look at this smile!

This is surely a winner for the smile contest! Now, who is it?

Ron ponders...

"Was this guy in our class?...Am I having a senior moment?...Who is he anyway?"

Social butterfly Barnie

wastes no time focusing on an attractive Bush!

Another guy who turned up....

And, it looks like he was deep in thought about something. I wonder what it was....

Who are these people who got it in gear?

Yes, another play on words! Humor me, please! (We keep seeing Barnie in the pictures--still a social butterfly, I guess.)

Is this cool, or what? Or who?

I thought this picture was cool....And, hopefully you'll get the play on words! Everyone except Doug is invited to guess who is it and post something you remember about her. (Sorry, Doug. You just know too much.)

The conversation

starter sits in the middle and keeps things going!

Two more who "turned up"

I bet you can guess who they are! They haven't changed much...

The results are in....

For those of you who have been wondering how many of us would start over some place at the major life markers, you might have missed the poll results on the right hand side of the page.

It seems that 6% would start over at birth; 6% at elementary school; 6% at junior high school; 13% at college; 13% at marriage; 0% at parenting; 20% wouldn't start over.

Well, I guess it's how you interpret the question. Does start over mean:

1. It was so much fun, I want to do it again!
2. I think I'd start over to do it differently this time.

Which was did YOU interpret the question. I'll come clean on this one. I'd like to start college over again. Although I seriously explored what I wanted to major in, I didn't really have an idea about a career. At that time, a job was a job, not a career for most females. I married during the first year of my "job" and began on my PHT path--putting hubby through. Given the second chance, I'd do it over with a career in mind for me. Which is not to say I'd skip marriage or parenthood.

I'd like to hear how others interpreted the question--#1 or #2 or something else. Your reasoning for choosing what you chose?

Breakfast at Tiffany's?

Or, was it somewhere else? Name that place, and name those folks!

Do you think Dave...

still has the keys? Or, do you think he turned them into the office in 58 when we left? I guess it doesn't matter, since the doors aren't there anymore!....

Look who "turned up" at the depot!

Alright you lurkers! Who's in this photo?

How's that making a point?

No, I don't think he was blocking Doug's camera....I think he was making a point. And, who appears to be distracted from getting the point?

?

Which classmate pictured here has email?

Help!

As many of you know, I became a landlord, unwillingly, on my 67th birthday. I rented my unsold house in Mason after having it on the market for 1.5 years. (Yes, I retain the right to show it to interested parties.) Okay, so I have a lot of company in this saga of the housing market. However, there's a beer waiting for anyone who helps me sell it! If you click on the first link under the diploma along the right side, it will take you to a detailed description with pictures of the house and property.

Yes! The fall round-up contributed to the continued restoration in two ways: contributions to a class brick (CHS Class of 1958) to be placed in the walkway leading to the Depot and purchases of the DVDs produced by the Chelsea Historical Society. By the way, we are starting our second class brick. If you wish to make a contribution, write a check to the Chelsea Depot Association, c/o Jan Bernath, 238 Harrison, Chelsea 48118, and I'll add it to the second brick fund. Each brick costs $75. If you want one of your own, I'll be responsible for that as well.

The cooks

Bill Lake, Bob Brown, and Silas made some mighty good stuff on the grill. Note: these grills usually set along side the railroad. Gee, how'd they get there?

Recollections of the fall round-up

Thanks to Doug Collyer we have many (too many?) images of last weekend! And, thanks to many others who brought food and humor...So, for those of you who attended, what do you remember as very special? For those who didn't attend, what are your questions? Simply write something in the comment section at the bottom of this posting.

Oh, everyone wonders, I imagine, when the big 50th will happen... We've identified Saturday, September 20th as the banquet date next year (none of this dragging food around for the 5 - 0). This was determined, because Chelsea has a home football game on Friday, the19th. I've come to accept that football determines a lot of stuff in life...Anyway, we hope you'll put it on your calendar now. Or, on the refrigerator if you don't have a 2008 calendar yet.

Historical Friday

I hope you will be able to take advantage of the "customized" history available to us on Friday. At the meeting at the Chocolate Gourmet Shop at noon for lunch on Friday, we will have a person from the Historical Society there to explain the exhibit currently in the shop. Additionally, John Frank will lead us in a walking tour beginning about 1:30 p.m. detailing some of the unique architecture in the downtown area. This truly is an opportunity to look in new ways at old things! Hope to see you there on Friday.

Final Fall Round-Up Schedule

2007 FALL ROUNDUP

September 13-16

CHELSEA HIGH SCHOOL CLASS of 1958

Sept. 13 Thursday Evening:

7:00pm - Planning Committee (Meaning any CHS58er in town) Meeting at Cleary’s Pub (Up-Town on Main Street). Dinner and make plans to pick-up food and drinks for Sat. as well as decide when to meet to set-up Train Depot.

Sept. 14 Friday:

9:00am - Breakfast at Main Street Coney Island Restaurant.

12:00pm (Noon) – Assemble at Gourmet Chocolate Café (312 N. Main St. – Immediately North of the clock tower building) for Lunch. Parking is available in the area.

1:30pm – Walking tour, with guide, of historic downtown Chelsea. Those needing assistance – we can help. We’ll also make arrangements to pick-up folks and drive them back to where they parked their cars.

5:00pm – NOTE: Place & conditions have changed! The Firefly is now located at 637 South Main Street. Take a right at the light on Main and Huron. We will need to order food there to be brought in. They will have menus for us there. I will be saving tables. Please contact me with any questions and/or concerns at janbernath@yahoo.com

9:00pm - Thompson Pizza for Pizza and Drinks. Those not going to the Firefly, please go early to Thompsons and help secure us a big table.

Sept. 15 Saturday:

9:00am - Breakfast at Main Street Coney Island Restaurant.

12:00 Noon - Food & Mixer at Chelsea Train Depot. The famous chefs, Bob & Bill will be preparing burgers & brutes on the grill. Please let Sandy, Jan or me know if you plan to attend so we can order enough food.

6:30pm – Bill and Bob will again demonstrate their grilling techniques by preparing chicken legs & thighs along with potato salad and all the other good things to eat. CDs of Historical Images of Chelsea by the Historical Society will be available for $20 each. Bricks can be ordered with names on them for $75. per brick. Both these efforts are to raise funds to refurbish the Chelsea Depot.

9:00pm – Till ???? – I think Jan, Sandy, John Eisenbeiser and Jim Grau will be singing and dancing on the tables. Maybe not….

Sept. 16 Sunday:

9:00am - Breakfast at Main Street Coney Island Restaurant.

After Breakfast - Open time to attend church, visit grave sites of Classmates or spend some time with local friends.

Please note. We have prepared a reasonably flexible schedule so everyone can attend any or all of the events without having to make reservations. Thus, we won’t be asking for money in advance as we do for our formal Class Reunions. However we do ask that you let us know how many will be attending the lunch and/or dinner at the Train Depot o Saturday so we can order enough food and drinks. Bringing friends that were upper or lower class schoolmates or our teachers is encouraged. Please note, we think that Gene Shroyer will attend again. Again, just let us know who is coming. We will cover the cost for the food at the Depot so any donations (any amount you wish) at the door to defray some of the food costs & expenses would be welcome.

Don’t forget to continue to visit the Class of 58 Site on the Internet -- chelseaclassof58.blogspot.com

Doug Collyer Sandy Weber Jan Bernath

Tel: 254 526 2665 734 475 8862 734 475 5753

Fax: 254 526 2682

Email: dougcollyer@embarqmail.com

Poll

Check out the new poll (on the right side of the blog). You have to reflect on your life a bit before answering it. Hopefully it's not too "deep" for folks. Everyone checking this site is welcome to vote -- our graduating class or not -- it doesn't matter. Let's see how many people we can get responding! I know far more people are checking the site than are participating to date. All you have to do to vote is click on the dot and then push the "vote" button. No one can find out how you voted. You can also change your vote if you want before the poll ends. Have fun!

Can you identify these firefighters?

From today's Chelsea Standard I found this plea: The Chelsea Area Fire Authority and The Chelsea Standard are asking for the public's help to identify members of the Chelsea Fire Department seen in this photo taken in the early to mid-1950s. Please contact CAFA Capt. Christopher Smyth at 734. 475.8755 or Chelsea Standard Staff Writer Edward Freundl at 734.475.1371. (Bloggist's querry: Isn't the one crouching on the right in the lower right box --George Doe?)

High School Graduation Rates

We all hear about high school graduation rates declining, especially in the inner cities. What percentage of people currently living in Chelsea over the age of 25 years old do you think have at least a high school diploma?

A. 69%
B. 75%
C. 86%
D. 92%

Free beer to the winner, again.

More about the Clocktower Building Complex

Flanders motorcycles were built in Chelsea for two years beginning in 1913. Following that, the Lewis Spring & Axle Company purchased the building and moved its production of the Hollier 8 into the building from Jackson by Charles Lewis' son, Frederick H. Lewis. Like hundreds of other automobile companies, it was put out of business by the assembly line methods developed by Henry Ford. The Hollier was a hand-made car and about 1,000 were produced. Lewis said he was capable of converting the entire auto plant for products that were "war munitions". "Liberty" engines powered JN-4 "Jenny" biplanes for World War I. Biplanes were one of the first aviation weapons used by the US.

Frederick Lewis flew the prototype plane from Chelsea to Jackson in 1919. What a talented guy! Frederick was also a musician and organized a traveling band called the Hollier 8 Band.

I wonder if the band played WW I music?

What was the name of the first bank in Chelsea?

According to the Chelsea Standard, Chelsea State Bank, one of Michigan's oldest financial institutions is celebrating its 110th anniversary this year. But, what was the name of the first bank in Chelsea?

a. Chelsea Savings Bank, principally owned by the Glazier family;
b. R. Kempf and Brother Bank, owned by Reuben and Charles Kempf;
c. Farmers and Merchants Bank, owned by 56 individuals;
d. Kempf Commercial and Savings Bank, owned by 21 individuals

$1.00 goes to the first person with the correct answer who attends the this Fall Round-up at the depot.

The 22-car train wreck during our Freshman Year

On April 9, 1955, there was a train wreck in Chelsea of a west-bound New York Central 88-car train that was heard all through town. Although there had been large train wrecks in town in 1908 and 1921, the 1955 wreck was known as the worst in Washtenaw County.

Did you see it?

What caused this 1955 wreck?
A. A semi-truck stalled on the M 52 crossing;
B. A "hot box" developed and seized up a bearing in one car;
C. Collision of eastbound and westbound trains.

Museum and Walking Tour

This picture was in the Chelsea Standard on June 14 of this year when the museum opened in the Chocolate Gourmet Shop. That's where we'll be meeting for the guided walking tour of Chelsea on Friday.

The tall fellow to the left is John Frank, and he'll be our guide. John is a retired physicist and management consultant. He is chair of Chelsea's Historic District Commission and found director of Preservation Chelsea. He and his wife, Jackie, have done a near-museum-quality of restoring their historic 1885 home on the south side of East Middle Street. We are fortunate that John agreed to conducting the tour especially for us! I hope we have a good turnout!

For a short period of time, the house was a hospital. I know that Kay Vogel Weinberg, Fred Wenk, and I were born there. Probably some other classmates were, too! Do you know anyone else who was born in that hospital?

Make that...

last comment read, "Ron thought he'd die if he did...."

We've been discovered....

Hi - I stumbled upon your blog because I am the creator of the www.ThingsToDoInChelsea.com website, and I am always on the lookout for additional sources of Chelsea news, events and information. :)

Just wanted to comment on this blog post because if your class is interested in this book, you can most definitely find it at Cranesbill. Also, if you aren't in a hurry, it's likely that they can get you a signed copy because the author lives in the area. Their website is www.CranesbillBooks.com and their phone number is 433-BOOK.

Take care!
Leslie

NOTE--SHOULD I PURSUE SIGNED COPIES AS CITED ABOVE BY LESLIE?

Who do you see?

The last time I went to NYC!

Anyone been to NYC (other than to change planes) since 1958? If so, why, where and when?

Our Hometown

Doug had a question about a book written about Chelsea. I suspect it's Our Hometown: American's History as Seen Through the Eyes of a Midwestern Village by Cynthia Furlong Reynolds, ISBN 1-58536-00-7. If anyone wants a copy, most likely Cranesbill Bookstore has them. It's a locally owned bookstore, and it's great to "shop locally". I can make sure Jan Loveland, the owner, has copies in September.

Any stories worth telling here?

Do you have a story about these teachers?

Who was your favorite teacher and why?

One of my favorite teachers in high school was Jim LaGoe. I recall that he encouraged me to write and said I was pretty good at it. I also liked the fact that his room wasn't arranged in straight lines. To me, it sort of encouraged creativity.

Who was your favorite teacher and why?

Another Option!

As I said, the Depot sorely needs repairs! If you want to see your name immortalized in a brick, here's your chance! In 1985, people contributed to purchase and restore the Depot. Many people bought bricks that are in the walkway outside. A brick costs $75.00, and you can participate now using this order form. Or, I'll try to make sure there are some forms at the Depot on September 15 at our fall round-up. Another thought would be to collect contributions for the CHS Class of 1958 brick(s).

Historical Images of Chelsea

Here's a chance to "look back in time"! I've purchased this CD that has pictures in the following categories:


Chelsea Begins; Industry & Progress; Methodist Home; Church and Life; Chelsea Schools; Downtown Chelsea


I'll have my copy running on slide show at the depot, so you can see what's on it. I'll also have others available to purchase for $20.00 It's a good cause--a fund to renovate and repair the Depot!

Pre-schoolers!

Wait a minute! They didn't really have preschool back then. But, who are these two cute babes anyway? Two Class of 58 graduates, that's for sure.

Two Depot Questions

To peak your interest in saving the depot from ruin, here are two questions:
1. What freight product was shipped from Chelsea in 1850?
a. grain
b. beef
c. eggs

2. When passenger service began in 1880, why were two rooms built?
a. to keep the people separate from the freight
b. to keep the women separate from men separate
c. to keep the first class passengers separate from the regular folk

First one to get both answers correct, wins a ride on the train when passenger service starts again.

Picture perfect

Help restore the Chelsea Depot!
Back in 1985, a group of interested citizens formed the Chelsea Depot Association to purchase and restore the Chelsea Depot which was no longer used by Conrail for railroad purposes. During the last 22 years, the Association has managed to maintain the Depot from money received from rental of the Depot for private social events, such as the Fall Round-Ups for our class, and has made it available for free or reduced rates to community non-profit organizations, such as the Chelsea Chamber Players.

Now, after 22 years, there is a need for additional funds to restore the building again. Exterior painting is the most obvious need, but there are other large costs just around the corner--new air conditioners and some Ginger Bread Repairs.

Be a part of Chelsea and Chelsea's history by purchasing bricks for just $75.00. Take a walk down the brick sidewalk from the Depot to Main Street and see how many names you recognize. Watch for the next Class of 58 posting with the Brick Order Form, then buy your bricks to become a part of the history of Chelsea! Help make the Chelsea Depot picture perfect again!

Who else had this guy?

Okay, I admit it: I had a miserable sixth grade experience with my first male teacher. Who else had him? What was his name? What are three attributes of his classroom that you can remember!

What building is this?

Recently, there has been a lot of rehabilitation of buildings that had fallen into disrepair. Hooray! Here is a sketch of one of them. Which building is it? What was the original use of the building? And, what was business was in there when we were in school?

Remember: winner gets a prize!

Who's the mystery author of The Old Class Ring?

THE OLD CLASS RING

Walking through the Mall the other day I passed one of those gold merchant, island stalls. As I was glancing at his wares, the merchant smiled in the typical friendly manner of a successful entrepreneur as he looked for any sign of an affinity I might have for his wares. Spotting the ring on my little finger, his expert eye recognized the gold content of the ring was vastly higher than anything on the market today. Knowing that the piece could be melted down and would turn a fine profit for him, the merchant again smiled and politely asked, “How much do you want for the ring?” Taken by surprise as I rarely wear the ring anymore, I glanced down and looked at the old high school class ring on my little finger. It was on my little finger as it was a little tight and hard to take off even when I could slip it on my ring finger. You know what I mean; weight changing from 165 lbs. in high school to 190 lbs. now. Damn, I got to get back down to 180 lbs. like I was a couple of months ago.

“Well,” I replied to the merchant, “I really haven’t thought about selling it. Let me think about how I can put a price on it.” “Let’s see”, I wondered. Thoughts flashed through my mind in no particular order or sequence, just delightful memories.

It would have been the spring of 1957 that we ordered our rings. The price I can not even recall, but it was a pretty good price in those days. Even though it would take some effort to pay for it, my folks had agreed to buy it for me as a reward for nearing graduation. Come fall, our class would receive our rings and we would start wearing them as “seniors.” Ah yes, we had reached the pinnacle of our young lives.

The fall semester finally arrived and shortly thereafter our class rings were delivered. What pride we had as everyone would ask to see our new ring. The under classmen would look and touch them in reverence with anticipation of their own eventual rise to our level of achievement.

The cool nights of fall weather announced the arrival of football practice and Friday night games. During practice and games our rings came off and were safely stored in the coaches’ office until we returned to collect them. After our Friday night games with our class ring proudly displayed on our fingers, we ascended to the gymnasium for an evening of dancing. If we had a particular date or were there as a single, we would have a great time with the young ladies.

Glancing at my ring, I see it is slightly “out-of-round.” That was from the time I got it slammed in a locker door. The ring saved my finger from a lot of pain and injury.

Some of the fellows even started “exchanging rings,” “going steady” that is, with their girlfriend. Ah, isn’t young love wonderful?

Well, the holidays passed and we entered our final spring semester. A virtual “whirlwind” of events then began. At the Senior Prom, where we were the guests of honor, our class rings accompanied us, verifying our status and prominence. And then came our Senior Trip to New York City. Of course, like an old friend, our class rings accompanied us as we visited and experienced the beautiful, large and important city.

Finally the day came. The day that we had been waiting some twelve years for finally arrive. The day we had, oh so often, wished could be “moved-up on the calendar” so that we could go out into the world and start our new lives. Graduation Day had finally arrived.

Dressed in a cap and gown, and wearing our class ring of course, we walked down the isle to the stage and awaited the activities that would lead to our receiving our diplomas. Finally after the appropriate speeches and music, our individual names were called and we proudly walked across the stage. Our right hand shook the congratulating hand of the school Superintendent and our left hand wearing our class ring accepted our diploma. That evening was a time of happiness and celebration.

Later that summer of 1958 as I prepared to go away to college, I sadly had to part with my old class ring. High School memorabilia wouldn’t be appropriate at college, don’t ya know. Into my dresser at home it went and there it stayed for several years until I was “out on my own” and I retrieved it to stay in my jewelry box through the years.

As I now glance down at that old high school class ring, there are a few minor scratches here and there but it is still in pretty good shape. The nicks and minor scratches all represent a piece of my life, an experience, a moment of joy or pain.

Returning to reality, I turn to the merchant and say, “No thanks, there is not enough money to buy such a large piece of my life.”

I had to turn quickly and walk away because the tears began to fill my eyes and run down my cheeks.

Senior Trip Good-bye

Here are a few folks saying good-bye after our Senior Trip. Do you remember where we went? Can you name any of the people in the picture? Check out the cars and the skirts!

Cheers, cheers for ol' Chelsea High

Check this out! Who can name these cheerleaders? I think they were younger than our class, right? Rattle your brain cells awhile and submit a guess. The first one to name the most cheerleaders correctly in the comments section will win a free drink for the Fall 2007 Round-up. Can't make the 2007 Round-up? Don't worry -- your free drink will last until our 50th reunion! Prior winners cannot compete. Good-luck!

First Grade Birthday Party

Here are some of us at someone's first grade birthday party! We had three first grade teachers that year! I think this was number three. What was her name?? Who was having the birthday party?? (Not me, I was born in August.) Who can you name in the picture??

You have to comment to win the prize!

One winner so far...

Bob Brown was able to ID the Fellow Classmates posting. Congrats, Bob! One free drink for you at the 2007 Fall Round-Up. Still a mystery is that tuba player. Anyone know who it was?

Just a snack

Can you name these classmates? Who is eating a snack? Which one is waiting for his critique?
Where do you think this taste-testing is taking place? The first person to name these two classmates correctly wins a free drink for the Fall 2007 Round-up. Those pictured and prior winners cannot compete. Post your responses in the comments section. Good-luck!

Fellow Classmates

The first person to name all four classmates in this junior year picture will win a free drink at the Fall Class Round-up! GET OUT THOSE YEAR BOOKS! Join the fun by naming your classmates in the comment section!

Again, to post a comment, all you have to do is put in your email address as the username and create a password -- and that should be it. I think you are then sent one email to verify you are you (it's been a long time since I registered -- if this is not the case, someone please let me know). That's it. Please let me know if you are having trouble posting comments. If anyone else has any advise or tips, please post it here as a comment. After all, someone might be out there trying really hard to win a free drink and getting mad that it isn't working! Feel free to email me at janbernath@yahoo.com with any questions. Thanks!

PS We have had one donation thus far for our Fall 2007 Round-Up. We have 5 free drinks to give away! Thanks for the donation! Join the fun and get your free drink today!

More Band

Check out the socks! Another challenge and prize for the person who can name that tuba player. The first person to respond correctly will win a free drink at our Fall 2007 Round-Up. Post your answers in the comments section. Obviously the tuba player cannot compete!

It looks like there may be some uncertainty surrounding how to post a comment (or else maybe people aren't interested?! Say it isn't so...). To post a comment, all you should have to do is put in your email address as the username and create a password -- and that should be it. I think you are then sent one email to verify you are you (it's been a long time since I registered -- if this is not the case, someone please let me know). That's it. No spam. No dateline reports coming to your house. Please let me know if you are having troubles posting comments. If anyone else has any advise or tips, please post it here as a comment (hopefully it works!) so we all know how to post comments better. After all, someone might be out there trying really hard to win a free drink and getting mad that it isn't working! Feel free to email me at janbernath@yahoo.com with any questions. Thanks!