Buffum's favorite story About a story

Asked whether he remembers any favorite story he or Kathy Goforth wrote while they were at the Beacon Journal, our New York City correspondent Charlie Buffum came up with this irreverent gem for the blog:

I forwarded your question on stories to Kathy. I know she won a Penney-Missouri award one year for a feature she wrote about battered women [I think].

The funniest story I recall well about Kathy's writing is how she was a new hire, an Akron University English major stuck writing obits and wondering how to make the move to real newspapering. Goforth thought she finally had gotten her big break when an obit came in for a guy who had died of a heart attack while deer hunting. "Aha!" she thinks. "When they see the intricate, ironic American gothic, heart-rending literary gem I develop this into, they'll rush out into the newsroom and say, 'Who is this Goforth? Why isn't she on page one?'" So Kathy calls the guy's widow, his hunting partner who recalled that the deceased had trouble turning off the gas lanterns the night before, the sherriff's office, etc., labors mightily, and whips out a four or five-take masterpiece. Then she sits back smugly, waiting only for the technicality of being discovered. Finally, Loren Tibbals stands up, copy in hand, and slowly walks to Kathy's desk. Here it is, the moment! No doubt a moment to be enshrined in her biography when published in "Great Ohio Journalists, Vol. 1" She looks up, smiling modestly as Tibbals peers though those thick glasses and asks, "Did you write this?" "Why yes, Loren, I did." Tibbals tosses it on her desk, turns to walk away, and snaps back over his shoulder: "Jesus Christ, Goforth, you got a quote in here from everybody but the Goddamn deer. Cut this to three graphs." Ah fame. More fleeting than a whitetail on the first day of hunting season. Anyway, it's not a story she wrote, but its a story ABOUT a story she wrote that remains one of my personal favorites, right up there with "Stick This Slug Up Your Ass," Ron Kuhne's "God Willing" addition to the front page weather, and watching Bill Schlemmer put out his innumerable wastebasket fires. Damn, those were fun times, weren't they? As for me, the only story I ever won a prize for (state AP award) was for writing about the sun coming up in Medina [big news], one of Perry Morgan's brainstorms.

Blog Guy’s Notes: The “slug” quote actually was a line of type set by a Linotype operator back in the days of hot type when each line of a story was a lead slug. The printer who set this line of type sneaked it into the middle of a story and it was actually printed in the newspaper. The other tale is about Ron Kuhne who was responsible for writing a one paragraph weather summary for page 1. Kuhne thought he would have fun with the copy desk so he wrote a graph which ended up with something like “sunrise tomorrow at 4:59 a.m., God willing” That bit was missed by the copy desk and it too was printed in the newspaper. If anyone has a copy of either and knows the date of publication, please send it to us. Oh, and Schlemmer was a pipe-smoking managing editor.

BJ types off to warmer climes

Beacon Journal types are off to warmer climes for the holidays.

Coleen Murphy and Bob Tigelman are off to warmer Phoenix for the holidays. Coleen writes in an e-mail: “We're off to Phoenix for a week's visit with my dad and one of my sisters. It's mid '70s and sunny there. After decades of the cold of Minn. and the gray of Ohio, I'll settle for this -- even if it's not in keeping with the season.”
Coleen Murphy
CMurphy777@aol.com

And Don Bandy left this week for Florida for two months.There are no more Bandy’s in his hometown of Washington Court House but he has two brothers and a sister in Florida, so Don is exploring the possibily of getting a condo near Bradenton and selling the old homestead (with all the leaves) on Acqueduct St. “Too much snow and cold here,” Don writes. If you need to get in touch with him send e-mail to hliggett@ald.net for the phone number of his niece Ruth Burton in Sarasota.

Incidentally, if you would like to send cards to any BJ retiree, there is now a link at the left on this blog which is titled “Retirees.”

Remembering Susan Zimmerman

Don't know if anyone will remember me -- my byline at the BJ was Susan Z. Miller, 1973-75, on the old State Desk.

I live in Cleveland now - address & phone below. I'm a freelance writer, teaching one journalism course at Kent State and doing a newsletter project for the Baldwin-Wallace College Business Division. I was the fulltime Reuters correspondent in Cleveland from 1994-97; was with Fairchild Publications Cleveland bureau 1979-88; otherwise have been freelancing.

I'm not married -- no kids, just two dogs and two cats.

I always appreciate getting your e-mail list -- have gotten in touch with a couple of people through it. So thanks for your good work!

Susan Zimmerman
2094 West Blvd.
Cleveland OH 44102
216-281-8527
fax 216-651-3513
e-mail zimwrite1

Note from Don Gresock's sister

Dear Friends and Family:

Thank you so very much for all of your prayers, kind words, floral arrangements, Mass intentions, and expressions of sympathy you sent to our family. They were most consoling in our time of sorrow. I know Don would have been embarrassed by all of the accolades sent his way via the internet.

The Funeral Mass was beautiful, with many members of his family taking an active part in it. A long line of cars was escorted by four Officers of the San Antonio Police Motorcycle Division to his final resting place in the peaceful and serene military cemetery at Fort Sam Houston.

May our Lord bless all of you during this Christmas season. Thank you again.

Patricia Gresock Brunner
Houston, Texas

Obit for Joseph Locke, composing retiree

Joseph B. Locke

Joseph B. Locke, 80, passed away Dec. 12, 2004.

He was born Sept. 16, 1924, in Altoona, Pa. Joseph served in the 1st Division of the U.S. Marine Corps in the South Pacific during World War II, retired from the Akron Beacon Journal, was a member of St. Francis De Sales Church and Coventry AARP, and volunteered at St. Bernard's, serving meals.

Joseph was preceded in death by his son, William; parents, Blair and Genieve; brothers, James and William. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Dolores; sons, John (Connie), Robert (Janie), Richard (Mari lyn), Joseph (Karla), and Thomas; daughters, Kathleen (Larry) Hollingsworth and Carole (Robert) Mills; 19 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Bacher Funeral Home, 3326 Man chester Rd., TODAY from 4 to 8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m at St. Francis De Sales Church. Interment at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, dona tions may be made to St. Fran cis De Sales School, 4009 Manchester Rd., Akron, Ohio 44319, in memory of Joseph. Funeral home map, directions, and the Locke Family condolence book are available at www.bacherfuneralhome.com
(Bacher, 330-644-0024.)
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Tuesday, December 14, 2004, page B6, col. 6]

Harry Liggett Notes: Locke started working at the Beacon in 1952 and retired from the composing rooom in 1983. The home address for those who might like to mail cards is:
Locke Family
896 Pearlman Road
Akron, OH 44319

Opening night at Greystone

Former Beacon Journal TV critic Mark Dawidziak, his wife, Sara Showman, and retired Stow High School teacher Tom Stephan celebrated the opening night of “A Christmas Carol” on Friday, December 10, at the Greystone Theatre in the former Masonic building in downtown Akron. It was the first of several presenations planned by Mark and Sara’s Most Literary Theatre Company. Mark wrote the adaptation of the Charles Dickens' classic, is the narrator and plays several roles. Sara plays more than a dozen roles. Check the October archives for a Beacon Journal story on this creative effort.

Incidentallly, former BJ types Cindy Bach and Carol Eubanks are involved in events at the Greystone building

Suffering golfers in Florida

Retired BJ printer Terry Dray and wife, Cecily, who live in Avon Park, FL, not far from Kiissimmee Lake, suffered through three of the four Florida hurricanes that blew through Avon Park. They lost only one orange tree although another was damaged, but they were up to seven days without power.

There can be problems other than hurricanes, though, Cecily writes in an e-mail from Avon Park:

We just finished remodeling the kitchen and carpeting the whole house. We spent 8 weeks with the stove and refrigerator in the living room. It was like living thru another hurricane...only with air conditioning.

Terry continues to play golf 7 days a week and I "play at it" 3 days a week. We are well and hope you have a wonderful Christmas season.

Best wishes, Terry & Cecily

Greetings from Marge Englehart

Greetings written on a Christmas card from Marge Englehart, widow of the late State Editor Pat Englehart, 93 Ashland Ave., Bedford, VA 24523:

I’m most content here at the Elks... I’ve been here a year (how fast the time goes).

I golf, bowl, play bridge, etc. (none with any expertise).

My best to you and your family. Keep in touch.

Love, Marge

[Liggett note: Patrick T. Englehart died Sunday, October 29, 1995 in Ocala, Florida]

Catching up with Mary Grace Poidomani

A number of BJ types have asked “What is Mary Grace doing?” My query prompted this e-mail response from her:

I didn't mean to have been so scarce, life has been keeping busier than usual lately.

I am working as a paralegal for a four (soon to be six) -lawyer firm in Highland Hills after receiving my post-degree certificate from Tri-C and have applied to Marshall Law School at CSU for special student status. That would let me take courses as I want and as seats are available, rather than getting a formal (and very expensive) law degree. I do an extraordinary amount of legal research and writing; it's almost like reading the law in days of old. I really love the work.

Otherwise, I'm waiting to close the sale of my condominium in Broadview Heights. For now, I've taken an apartment in Parma [6134 Stumph Road #108, Parma 44130; 440-743-0472], although I've been spending quite a bit of time at my Mom's. She had carpal tunnel and cataract surgery. She's almost 84, but otherwise going strong.

I hope your visit means Polly is doing better. I was sorry to read about Hal Fry.

I still miss you, Tom, Don, Lilley and a few others; I haven't missed the Beacon Journal one little bit.

I would very much like to see you and other old friends once the holidays are over.

Mary Grace

It's a tie again at retirees lunch

The score was still tied 7-7 for the monthly retirees lunch at Papa Joe’s restaurant on Wednesday (Dec 8) with seven printers, seven news types and no women. But there were two more retirees attending than in November. It has not been determined who is scaring the women away.

If you are wondering why there are no photos of printers above, it is because they had their backs to the camera and were cropped out. Tom Moore, not a printer, was the photographer.

There were a couple of extras on each side. Dick Gresock and Ray Wolfe added to the printers’ total which included old standbys Calvin Deshong, Al Hunsicker, Carl Nelson, Gcene McClellan and Robert Pell

The two extras on the news side were Bill Canterbury and Sandy Levenson. Tom Moore took the place of John Olesky who attended in November but was absent this month. Others at the lunch were Don Bandy, Art Cullison, Tim Hayes and Harry Liggett. Don Roese does not count because he only popped in for a coupld of minutes and left without lunch.

Hope to see you there in the new year.January 12.

Don Gresock Obituary

Don Gresock


Donald W. Gresock
Born in Akron, OH on Feb. 23, 1930
Died Dec. 5, 2004 and resided in San Antonio, TX.
Visitation: Saturday Dec. 11, 2004 at 5 p.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary, North Loop 1604 East San Antonio, TX 78232
Rosary: Sunday Dec. 12, 2004 at 7 p.m. Porter Loring Chapel
Mass: Monday Dec. 13, 2004 at 10 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 10702 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78230
Funeral Home: Porter Loring Mortuary North Loop 1604 East San Antonio, TX 78232
Cemetery: Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach, San Antonio, TX 78209
Burial: Monday, Dec. 13, 2004

Donald W. Gresock, age 74, of San Antonio, TX, passed away Sunday, December 5, 2004.

Originally from Akron, Ohio, Donald worked at the Akron Beacon Journal from 1957 to 1978.

He was a Charter Member and past President of the National Council of Corvette Clubs, Inc. He was also a member of the International Order of Alhambra Bejar 56 and VFW Post 9603.

He is survived by his wife, Alice G. Gresock; children, Catherine Bartlow and husband Richard, Julie Walsh, Frank Walsh and wife, Regina, Stephen Walsh and Brian Walsh; 12 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; brother, Richard Gresock and wife, Lorraine; sister, Patricia Brunner and husband, Richard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

E-mail from Don'’s Sister:

Dear Friends:

Details for Don's funeral can be found at the following website:

http://obit.porterloring.com/obit_display.cgi?id=168800&listing=Current

[There are links to maps and directions at this site and condolences can be left in the Guest Book on the site.]

A group of rooms has been blocked off at the Hampton Inn_Six Flags, 11010 IH_10 West @ Huebner Road, San Antonio, Tx. 78230. under the Code: GRE for the nights of Dec. 11 & 12.

Please call the Inn at 210-561-9058 by Thursday night at 10 p.m. to reserve your preference. Price is $69 plus tax, $80.56.

Thank you for your prayers and condolences.
Pat Gresock Brunner
281-296-9099

Sidebar Editor wants suggestions

This is an e-mail from Hot Type/Sidebar editor Kathleen Kochanski

Dec. 7, 2004

Dear Beacon Journal Retirees,

We know it's important to you to receive an updated list of your retired colleagues' addresses during the holiday season. To receive that list electronically, send your e-mail address to: kkochanski@thebeaconjournal.com

I am exploring ways to share news about the Beacon Journal with its growing group of retirees. I'm hoping you can help me by sharing your thoughts about the following ideas under consideration:

+ Compiling a database of retirees' e-mail addresses for timely communication about important developments. (You can help by sending me your e-mail address.)

+ E-mailing weekly copies of Hot Type.

+ Setting up a Web site for staff members and retirees that would be updated regularly with information about new hires, retirements, births and feature stories about current and former staff members -- sort of an "e-Sidebar," if you will.

+ Linking the Web site to an online photo album for posting pictures of Beacon Journal events, retirees' activities, etc.

+ Embedding e-mail into the Web site to encourage instant feedback from retirees.

Please give me your thoughts about these and other ideas. You can give me a call, write to me at the Beacon Journal (44 E. Exchange St., 44309), or send me an e-mail. I'll look forward to hearing from you.

I wish you joy and peace this holiday season!

Sincerely,

Kathleen Kochanski
Hot Type/Sidebar editor
330-996-3164
kkochanski@thebeaconjournal.com

Don Gresock dies

E-mail from sister of Don Gresock, BJ retiree of San Antonio, TX:

Dear Friends: Our Lord took Don into Heaven tonight after a very peaceful passing. Thank you all for your concerns and prayers.

Funeral arrangements are being made by Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, Tx. 78232. 210-495-8221

Viewing times and funeral Mass time at St. Matthews Catholic Church are to be determined; most likely Thurs. Dec. 9 and Fri. Dec. 10.

Pat Gresock Brunner
Houston, Texas
281-296-9099

See photo of Don below

A visit with Polly Paffilas

Don Bandy and I visited Polly Paffilas on Saturday afternoon, December 4, at The Ledges at Rockynol. She has been at Rockynol since her dismissal from Akron General Medical Center where she was admitted November 11 in serious condition.

Although confined to a wheelchair, Polly looked very good and seemed every bit her own good self. Her faithful cat Harvey had to stay behind at her apartment but someone is caring for the feline. Polly does not know how long she will be at Rockynol, but she will be getting dialysis.

Bandy had to rummage through her things to find a replacement for a weak battery in her pocket radio. She enjoys the music on WKSU.

When talk got around to the BJ, as it sometimes will, Polly pulled out an old newspaper section containing what she described as the best story she had ever written. Polly once took a ride with A. J. Foyt and wrote about it, but her best story, she says, was the obit for her dog, the unsinkable Molly Brown–her companion for 14 years. You can read the story and see a photo of her that was poorly reproduced from a scan of the newspaper.

Just click on the headline above.

We talked about old-time Beacon Journal types and all three of us had difficulty remembering all your names. Polly was happy to hear from a number of you either from cards sent via e-mail to the hospital or by USPS.

You can send cards to:
Polly Paffilas
Room 208
The Ledges at Rockynol
1150 W. Market St.
Akron, OH 44310
Or you can telephone Polly’s room (330) 835-5468

Late note on Guild Party

A Late note from Charles Montague on Guild Party:

Hi, Harry. I know this is short notice, but they only just asked me (and I didn't think of it myself), but the Guild Christmas party is Friday at 7

p.m. at the Printers Club, featuring homemade food, beverages (alcoholic and non), readings of the Ann Hill and Mark Schlueb letters and the annual skit,

and all retirees and spouses or guests are invited, no charge.  Could you put this out to the Guild retirees on your ``tree,'' or on the

blog? Thanks very much.  I hope things are going well for you. My best.

Chas. Montague

Don Gresock moved to hospice

Don Gresock


Update on Don Gresock from his sister, Pat:

Today, Nov. 30, Don Gresock was transferred to VITAS Healthcare of Texas, 5430 Fredericksburg Road, San Antonio, Texas 78229, Room 351. This is a hospice facility and (son) Brian Walsh said Don is comfortable.

The calm and peaceful surroundings will aid Don during the next stage of his life. Thank you for your prayers.

Pat Gresock Brunner HPatriciaB@aol.com>

Robert Goshorn obituary

Robert Goshorn

Robert Goshorn, 48, passed away Nov. 24, 2004.

Born Aug. 21, 1956, in Co lumbus, Ohio, he was in the U.S. Navy, had a great love for tennis, was a musician, and had worked for the Akron Beacon Journal.

[Bob was in data processing]

Preceded in death by father, Robert Goshorn, and stepbroth er, James Phillips, he is sur vived by mother and stepfather, Nettie and Jay Phillips; brother, Victor Goshorn; stepbrothers, Steven (Jodi) Phillips and John Phillips; stepsister, Marilyn (Mark) Gordon; stepsister-in-law, Linda Bryant; god child, Shannon Shontz-Phillips; and nieces, Gwenn Bresslauer and Morgan Phillips.

Funeral services will be Friday, Dec. 3, 2004, at 12:30 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church of Barberton, 636 W. Park Ave., Barberton, Dr. Reford Nash officiating. Burial at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday, Dec. 2, 2004, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Cox Funeral Home, 222 Norton Ave., Bar berton, and also one hour prior to the funeral at the church. Memorials may be made in his memory to the First Presbyterian Church of Barberton's soup kitchen. (COX, BARBERTON, 330-745-3311.)
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Wednesday, December 1, 2004, page B6, col.5]

Gresock suffers another stroke

E-mail message from Brian Walsh, Don Gresock’s son:
,
This is Brian Walsh, Don Gresock's son in San Antonio. Don suffered another stroke last Friday, the 19th. He is in St. Luke's Hospital Room 228B. He is unable to speak, or move his body but is aware of who may be arround him.

I can be reached at 210-478-6537 or at bwalsh3@satx.rr.com

I will try to stay in touch.

This e-mail received Saturday, Nov. 27, from Don's sister:

Hello: I am Don's sister from Houston and I wanted to give you an update on his health. Don suffered a stroke on Oct. 27, which paralyzed his left side. He was being rehabilitated and making progress when another stroke hit him on Nov. 19. This one was more serious and there is not much hope for recovery now. He needs your prayers. Don has many friends and I am sure I am missing some names and addresses. You may pass the word along to others who may know him. This is a very difficult time for all of us. Feel free to write me for more information and I will keep you up to date. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. Pat Gresock Brunner HPatriciaB@aol.com ========= Cards may be sent to: Don Gresock 3319 Clearfield San Antonio, Texas 78231

John Olesky after 8 years of retirement

John Olesky, a journalism graduate of West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV, shows his school spirit in a sweatshirt during a recent luncheon of Beacon Journal retirees at Papa Joe's Restaurant in the Valley and relaxes at the poolside patio at his Morrison Ave. home in Cuyahoga Falls. John came to the Beacon Journal in 1969 from the Dayton Daily News where he was employed for 11 years. He signed off as editor of Channels and television news at the BJ in June, 1996. His wife, the former Monia Elizabeth "Monnie" Turkette, died February 4, 2004. Monnie was an ardent WVU fan who was honored posthumously by university alumni. Monnie met John on a baseball field in Williamson, WV, when John was sports editor and later city editor of the Williamson Daily News. Their children are LaQuita Timberlake of Aurora, John Larry Olesky of Tallmadge and Monnie Ann Johnston of Brunswick.

Note from Maxine in Florida

A note from Maxine Lozier in Ft. Myers, Florida:

It's nice to know that people still ask about you. I miss all the nice people I knew at the BJ and wish I could have lunch with you all every month. Maybe some day I'll get back before I'm too old to travel.

Ted and I sold our home (during the hurricanes). We were amazed but grateful. He bought most of our furniture too. Ted is on oxygen most of the time so we decided it was time to move to a senior citizens development. We have a great apartment on the NW corner, twelve stories up. Beautiful view on the Caloosahatachee River. Sunsets are great.

I still play golf and bridge. Ted had to give up golf, but, if I twist his arm, he will play bridge.We've had a good life and are happy. I have to tell you, I lived all my life in the Akron area until we moved to Florida ten years ago so my heart will always be there with you all.

Maxine & Ted Lozier
2525 E. First Street
Fort Myers, Fl 33901
Tel: 239--332-2557

Hal Fry classified obit

Halleck Duncan Fry Jr.

Hal Fry, 86, died Nov. 13, 2004, after a long bout with Alzheimer's disease.

He was born Oct. 14, 1918, in Washington, D.C., the son of Halleck D. Fry Sr., and Evelyn (Olds) Fry. He also lived in Maryland, New Jersey, West Virginia, and New York City before attending the University of Michigan. He served in World War II, where he received the Legion of Merit for his work with photo reconnaissance. Following the war, he returned to Owosso, Mich., to his work as a newspaper reporter. While in Owosso, he met and married Anne King. Hal and Anne moved to Akron in 1949, where he went to work at the Akron Beacon Journal. He was a reporter, feature writer, and editor. He retired as an editorial writer in 1983. He received the John S. Knight Award for journalism in 1984. In retirement, he edited several books, wrote a "History of Rubber" for Rubber World magazine, and wrote "Publish It!", a history of the Akron Beacon Journal, on the occasion of the paper's 150th anniversary. Hal lavished love on his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He devoted over a decade to the care of his beloved Anne as she suffered the ravages of Alzheimer's disease.

Hal was preceded in death by Anne, his wife of 55 years; a son, Patrick Duncan; his parents; and his sister, Scot (Fry) Cisco of Albuquerque, N.M. He is survived by his children, Jonathan Bradford Fry (Kathy) of Oak Park, Ill., Robert Marvin Fry, (Kathy) of Worcester, Mass., Christopher Martin Fry (Dottie Watson) of Melville, N.Y., Elizabeth Ann Fry Connelly (Mike) of Akron, and Michael Donoho Fry, (Suzanne) of Lebanon, Pa. Hal also leaves 17 grandchildren and 12 great- grandchildren.

The family will be forever grateful to the loving caregivers of Senior Independence Adult Day Care, and Sunrise Assisted Living of Bath.

Fry donated his body to NEOUCOM; hence, no burial will take place. A memorial service will be held on Friday, Nov. 26, 2004, at Church of Our Savior, 471 Crosby St. Visitation will be held 1 to 3 p.m., with a service at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Falls Cancer Club (330-929-2796), the Alzheimer's Association (330-864-5456), or to a charity of your choice.

Please sign the guest book at Ohio.com

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Wednesday, November 17, 2004, page B6, col. 2]

Hal Fry dies

Ex-Beacon staffer dies at 86

Hal Fry remembered for his intellect; wrote book about newspaper

By Elbert Starks III
Beacon Journal staff writer
Hal Fry, a longtime Beacon Journal editorial writer and newsroom editor described as a brilliant wordsmith, died Saturday at an assisted-living home in Bath Township.

He was 86.

Fry, who retired from the Beacon Journal in 1983 after 34 years of service, was part of the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for the newspaper's coverage of the shootings at Kent State University in 1970.

He also wrote a book, published in 1989, titled ``Print it!'' 150 Years of The Akron Beacon Journal, which detailed various highlights and important events in the newspaper's history.

``He was gifted with his hands and his mind and his heart,'' said his daughter, Elizabeth A. Connelly.

She said her father, a University of Michigan graduate, was fluent in four languages and spoke at least seven.

Connelly said her father enjoyed teaching courses at the University of Akron and at Kent State University, where he stressed principles such as precision and conciseness.

``Hal was probably the brightest person I ever met. I don't recall a subject ever coming up that he didn't know something about,'' said Chuck Ayers, a former editorial cartoonist for the Beacon Journal.

``He was the most incredible person. He was a great guy.... He was kind of like a father, sort of like that, to a lot of people down there. If you ever had a question, you went to Hal. If you were smart, you went to him first.''

Fry's book was described in the Beacon Journal ``as an illustration about the buildings (the newspaper) occupied, the presses on which it was published, the editors and employees who shaped it.'' It also highlighted the changing ways of newsmaking and newsgathering.

Fry also liked to travel, Connelly said, and he ``built two huge additions to the family home in Cuyahoga Falls.''

His wife, Anne, died in 1998. The two were married for 55 years. Fry is survived by five children, 17 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

The family is planning a memorial service.

Elbert Starks III can be reached at 330-996-3640 or estarks@thebeaconjournal.com
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Tuesday, November 16, 2004, page B8, col. 1]

Leave comment below

Hal Fry death

News flash from Sarah Vradenburg:



Just got news that Hal Fry died Saturday at Sunrise Assisted Living in Montrose. His

daughter is Betsy Connelly. His body has been donated to NEOUCOM and services are

planned for the Friday after Thanksgiving at Church of our Savior in Akron. 



Details as they become available.



Sarah

Polly Paffilas in hospital

E-mail from Nancy Bonar:
Polly Paffilas was admitted Thursday afternoon through ER to Akron General Medical Center. More high "spikes" for various parts of body, diseases than before. Friday pm: now in "Progressive Intensive Care." Is hoped to move her to private room tomorrow. Polly has worked so hard to be able to be self-sufficient, mostly in order to be in her home with her beautiful white cat, Harvey. Should Polly make it out of AGMC, will probably be to an assisted living facility. Maybe Harvey could be facility's on premise cat, as is done in area nursing homes? In the mean while, prayers for Polly's comfort and wishes. She is an "icon" in my life. NANCY Nancy Y. Bonar, APR Medina, OH

Harry Liggett Notes:

Polly suffered from high blood glucose levels (diabetes) and a urinary tract infection. She has been moved into her own room. I called her today (Saturday) and she sounded happy to receive the call. I had became concerned about Polly when I called her apartment Thursday and got no answer. I called Nancy Bonar and asked her to check. She sent me e-mail that Polly had been admitted..

I hope you will say a prayer for Polly and send her best wishes for recovery.

Polly Paffilas
Room 4101 Akron General Medical Center
Tel. (direct to her room) 330-344-2456
Tel. (patient info) 330-344-6100

To send Polly an electronic greeting card that will be delivered to her room, go to:
https://akrongeneral.org/sendacard/sendacard.asp

Home address:
900 W. Market St. #503
Akron, OH 44313.

Phone chat with Charlotte Earll

BJ composing room retiree Charlotte Earll had a malignant melanoma in the groin area removed. Charlotte told me in a phone conversation that doctors believe they got it all, but she will get further treatment. She was to go to Cleveland Clinic on Thursday (Nov. 11) to get clamps removed and will return the following Thursday for a checkup. Charlotte retired in 1990. She no longer sings in the Sweet Adelines, but does sing in the church choir when she can. She said she hopes to attend the next Beacon Journal Retirees luncheon.

Tom at work in Florida

Tom Moore with Hobbs, the Hobbs Baseball mascot

Tom Moore is in Fort Myers, Florida, for two weeks doing some writing...and a few other things...whatever needs to be done for another BJ type Tom Giffen at the Roy Hobbs Baseball World Series. This photo shows Moore with Giffen's dog, the mascot of Roy Hobbs Baseball wich is primarily an organization geared to 30-and-over competition for people who love the game of baseball and have determined that anyone, any age, can play the greatest of America's team sports. If you are really that interested go to
http://www.RoyHobbs.com

Printer vs. Editorial standoff at lunch

Editorial types 5
Printers 5
Women 0

That was the attendance score at the November 10, 2004 BJ Retirees lunch at Papa Joe's in the Valley. Printers attending were Calvin Deshong, Al Hunsicker, Gene McClellan, Carl Nelson and Robert Pell. Editorial types were Don Bandy, Art Cullison, Tim Hayes, Harry Liggett and John Olesky. There were no women present. Printers are more regular attenders it seems. Bandy, Liggett and Olesky were there for the first time in months.

I f you have forgotten what they look like, click on the headline above to go to a photo album.
Click on individual photos to enlarge. Oops! Cullison left before the shooting started so there is no photo of him.

KR announces management changes

SAN JOSE, Nov. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Knight Ridder Chairman and CEO Tony Ridder announced today a reorganization of the company's senior management that included these changes:

Art Brisbane, currently president & publisher of The Kansas City Star, and Hilary Schneider, currently president and CEO of Knight Ridder Digital (KRD), will become senior vice presidents of the company. Steve Rossi, currently, president of the Newspaper Division, will become the senior vice president/CFO. All three will report to Tony Ridder.

In the new structure, Brisbane and Schneider will share responsibilities for Knight Ridder's Newspaper Division. The vice presidents for News, Circulation and Production will report to Brisbane. The vice president for Marketing will report to Schneider. The Vice President for Technology will report jointly to Schneider and to Tony Ridder.

Newspapers in Philadelphia, Kansas City, Fort Worth, Charlotte and St. Paul will report to Brisbane. Newspapers in San Jose, Contra Costa, Miami, Detroit, Akron and Lexington will report to Schneider.

Brisbane will have oversight of the company's 17 mid-sized and small markets. Newspapers in those markets will continue to report to Vice President/Operations Mac Tully. Schneider will have oversight of KRD and its partnerships (e.g. CareerBuilder, CrossMedia Services).

Tony Ridder said, "This is excellent news for Knight Ridder. Three unusually talented individuals will fill three of the most critical positions in our company.

"Art Brisbane has been an outstanding publisher in every respect since he assumed the job in Kansas City seven years ago. He has extensive newsroom background, including five years as executive editor of the Kansas City Star. With his current position, he has added a wide range of operational knowledge and an estimable record of community involvement to his experience. All of this, combined with the wide respect he already enjoys throughout the company, will enable him to hit the ground running in this greatly expanded role.

"Hilary Schneider has done a first-rate job with KRD, rapidly expanding its revenue, reach and profitability, while simultaneously moving it in a variety of new directions. She spent her early years in investment banking, later moving to Times-Mirror, where she became general manager of The Baltimore Sun. Subsequently, she was CEO of Red Herring Magazine. It's a range of experience that positions her exceptionally well to understand the challenges of communications in the 21st century.

"Steve Rossi has led our Newspaper Division with skill and vision during the most difficult period for the newspaper advertising economy in memory. His capacity for organizational and strategic thinking are in large part responsible for an expanded corporate marketing function and much-improved data reporting, among many contributions. Steve's outstanding analytical abilities, combined with more than 17 years of operational experience, ensure that he will be an exceptionally strong CFO."

The changes are effective Jan. 1.

Knight Ridder is the nation's second-largest newspaper publisher, with products in print and online. The company publishes 31 daily newspapers in 28 U.S. markets, with a readership of 8.7 million daily and 12.6 million Sunday. Knight Ridder also has investments in a variety of Internet and technology companies and two newsprint companies. The company's Internet operation, Knight Ridder Digital, develops and manages the company's online properties. It is the founder and operator of Real Cities (http://www.realcities.com/ ), the largest national network of city and regional Web sites in more than 100 U.S. markets. Knight Ridder and Knight Ridder Digital are headquartered in San Jose, Calif.

CONTACT: Vice President/Corporate Relations, Polk Laffoon,+1-408-938-7838, or plaffoon@knightridder.com, or Director/CorporateCommunications, Lee Ann Schlatter, +1-408-938-7839, orlschlatter@knightridder.com, all of Knight Ridder

Web site: http://www.knightridder.com/

Carl K. "Red" Nestor Jr. obit

Carl K. "Red" Nestor

Carl K. Nestor Jr., 68, passed away suddenly Nov. 8, 2004, after a short illness.

Carl retired from the Akron Beacon Journal after 33 years of service.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Clarice (Root) Nestor, and his sister, Rutheda Glaspbill. Carl is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Rhea; sons, Jeff and Wesley (Linda) Nestor; daughters, Aleta (Jason) Hahn and Sharon (Rich) Lemmon; two grandchildren, Brendan and Emily; his twin sister, Ellen Dixon, and sister, Betty Pekar.

At his request, there will be no services. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Humane Society of Greater Akron, 4904 Quick Rd., Peninsula, Ohio 44264. (ADAMS-MA SON, 330-535-9186.)

Please sign the guest book at www.ohio.com/obituaries

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Wednesday, November 10, 2004, page B7, col. 1]

News briefs from Guild Reporter

MercNews unions in expedited talks
The five unions at the San Jose Mercury News, including the Guild, agreed Oct. 6 to start expedited negotiations with the hope of reaching agreements by the end of the year. If successful, the “limited issue” bargaining would mean that most of the current contracts would remain unchanged beyond the expiration date of 2006.

More outsourcing of classified ads
Following a growing industry trend, the Philadelphia News and Inquirer and the San Jose Mercury News have said they might outsource some classified telephone sales in Classified Plus so they can have around-the-clock coverage. Based in Williamsville, NY, Classified Plus already has contracts with the Miami Herald, the Detroit News and Free Press and the Los Angeles Times.

Reuters to further boost offshoring
Reuters demonstrated an even more aggressive approach to offshoring by announcing it will shift 55% of its data operations to India, where it will add 860 workers by the end of next year. The decision means the loss of 450 jobs at other Reuters centers around the world, although it’s not clear at this time how many Guild-represented jobs may be affected.

Internet help for tracking lost jobs
Working America and the AFL-CIO have developed an online “Jog Tracker” that permits users to find out which companies are exporting jobs by company name or zip code. The site is at http://www.workingAmerica.org

Report on Don Gresock

This report is via e-mail from Robert Pell

I talked with Don Gresock's stepson this afternoon and he told me that Don's

left side was paralized and he could not walk unassisted. He said Don would

be in therapy for at least six weeks, if I understood correctly, and as of

now he cannot walk unassisted. Brother Dick Gresock has been there for a

while but possibly will start back to Ohio tomorrow.

   I asked him about his mother and he said they were going to have to make

some unpleasant changes but he would try to make them as pleasant as

possible. Although he did not say it outright, it looks like a nursing home

for her... and possibly both of them for a while.

   It's "fun" getting old    ~Bob

Anthony Aquino obit

Anthony Aquino

Anthony Salvatore Aquino died of natural causes in Richmond, Va., on October 3, 2004.

Preceding him in death was his wife, Dorothy Cecilia Aquino. He is survived by his son, Charles Anthony Aquino; daughter-in-law, Anna Galusha Aquino; and his grandsons, Andrew Charles Aquino and Adam Anthony Aquino. He is also survived by his sister, Rosemary Severns and her family of Tallmadge, Ohio and his sister, Dolores Paul and her family of Portage, Michigan.

Anthony was born in Akron, Ohio in 1923. He was employed by the Akron Beacon Journal for most of his professional career. During the 1960s and 1970s he worked tirelessly in the labor union movement as an advocate for workers' rights compensation.

He will be missed by his loved ones.

Please sign the guest book at www.ohio.com/obituaries

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Sunday, November 7, 2004, page B8]

Don Gresock suffers stroke

Beacon retiree Don Gresock of San Antonio, Texas, suffered a stroke about noon Wednesday while working in his garage. His brother, Dick, said Don somehow got into the house, called a relative and was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital in San Antonio where he is in intensive care. Dick said his brother had paralysis on the left side, affecting his left arm and hand and could not raise his left leg. However, he was able to call his brother and also called Bob Pell in Wadswoth. Don, now 74, took early retirement.
Don Gresock, 3319 Clearfield, San Antonio, TX 78230 E-mail: CVNL1@stic.net

Neil Sheinen in hospital

BJ mail room employe R. Neil Sheinen is in Akron City Hospital recovering from a single bypass open heart surgery on Monday. Sheinen joined the BJ in August 1984 and worked for a while in sports before joining the mail room. Call patient information at 330-375-3131.

Purloined from Hot Type

Items grabbed from Hot Type, the BJ online company newslettter:

Eight to be honored in Creativity Annual
The work of eight newsroom staff members will appear in the prestigious Creativity Annual, a publication recognizing outstanding art and design internationally.
Two Beacon Journal works won gold medals. Dennis Balogh and Edna Jakubowski won for illustration and page design in the Art/Illustration category for a center spread on Aretha Franklin in Enjoy magazine. Rick Steinhauser won a gold medal in the same category for his illustration of the Rock Hall’s Class of 2004.
Deborah Kauffman Barry was honored for her design work on last year's special section honoring the Akron Zoo's anniversary. Phil Masturzo shot the photographs for the section. Rick Brinson won for his design work on an infographic, "Blossom in bloom again," which mapped out the renovations and updating at Blossom Music Center.
An editorial design award went to Tim Good, Dennis Balogh and Phil Masturzo for their efforts on a Health section front about hormone replacement diets.
Dennis Balogh also won for his illustrations of the Tri-City Jazz Fest and REM coming to Cleveland, both of which appeared in Enjoy magazine.
Kathy Hagedorn was honored for her illustration of the Dixie Chicks in Enjoy magazine.

Road Runner Akron Marathon postscript
Several staff members were among the thousands who ran in the Oct. 2 Road Runner Akron Marathon. Participating on Beacon Blasters, a co-ed relay team, were Dan Belford, advertising; Cathy Harbert, advertising; Steve Hoffman, newsroom; team captain John Russell, newsroom, and his running buddy, Peter Horwitz. The team finished in a total time of 3 hours, 29 minutes and 3 seconds, coming in 27th out of 324 co-ed relay teams.
Denny Gordon, newsroom ran in the male relay division with a group of friends that included former staff members Mike Jewell, Greg Maibach and Eric Sandstrom. Their team, Ten Feet High, finished in 3 hours, 20 minutes and 26 seconds, good enough for 29th place out of 95 male relay teams, said Gordon. Katie Byard, newsroom, ran on a co-ed relay team called Lords and Ladies of the Library. The group finished in 4 hours, 40 minutes and 41 seconds, placing 297th out of 324.

KSU names Nancy Whitehead recipient of 2004 Service Award
Kent State University has named Nancy Whitehead, classified advertising manager, the recipient of a 2004 Service Award. The KSU School of Journalism and Mass Communica-tion (JMC) and Friends of JMC present the award jointly. The entities base their selection on a nominee’s service to the school.. Whitehead received the 2004 Service Award at a homecoming brunch on Saturday, Oct. 16.
Her most recent service to the school was to establish the Nancy E. Whitehead Scholarship to help prepare future journalists and advertising professionals. The scholarship will be worth $10,000 once it’s endowed. The contributions she makes toward that end are matched in part by Knight Ridder. She and her husband, Tom, live in Kent with their two children, Allison, 20, who is majoring in education at Ohio State University, and Neale, 13.

Lorraine G. Grace obit

Lorraine is the daughter of the late BJ artist Joe Grace

Lorraine G. Grace

CUYAHOGA FALLS Lorraine G. Grace, 50, passed away Oct. 24, 2004.

Lorraine Grace was born in Akron, Ohio, and had resided most of her life in Cuyahoga Falls. She was a 1972 graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School, graduated from Akron City School of Nursing in 1975, and was employed as a nurse for Summa Home Care. She was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Cuyahoga Falls.

Preceded in death by her parents, Theresa and Joseph Grace, and twin brother, Lawrence, she is survived by her sisters, Mary Ann Grace of Stow and Patricia (Patrick) Grubbs of Cambridge; sister-in-law, Linda Grace of Cuyahoga Falls; nieces and nephews, Lawrence Loh man, John Lohman, Thomas Grubbs, Anne Grubbs, Steven Prough, and Jamie Zook; great-nieces and -nephews, Elizabeth Grace Lohman, Tracey Lohman, Collin Grubbs, Michael Prough, and Matthew Zook.

Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Clifford- Shoemaker Funeral Home, 1930 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls. A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 9 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Cuyahoga Falls. Inurnment at Holy Cross Cemetery. The family suggests memorials to Hospice of Summa, P.O. Box 2090, Akron, Ohio 44398-9976, in her memory. (CLIFFORD-SHOEMAKER, 330- 928-2147.)
Please sign the guest book at www.ohio.com/obituaries

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Tuesday, October 26, 2004, page B8, col. 2

Roland Queen dead at 59

Roland Queen

Retired Akron sportswriter
leaves legacy of excellence

Roland Queen, who
covered both students
and pros, dead at 59

By Marilyn Miller
Beacon Journal staff writer
Roland Queen loved most everything about sports. It was his passion and immeasurable drive that made him one of Ohio's most-respected sportswriters.

Mr. Queen, a Washington, D.C., native, began his 22-year career with the Akron Beacon Journal in 1977. He retired in 1999, leaving a legacy of excellence that inspired his colleagues.

Mr. Queen, 59, died late Thursday night after a lengthy and courageous battle with bone cancer.

Perhaps no one understood the intricacies of a game quite like Mr. Queen, his friends recalled. He possessed an uncanny knack for simplifying complex game strategies, enabling him to connect with his readers. More importantly, Mr. Queen knew how to connect with people.

``He could befriend anybody. He made friends wherever we went. He had a good heart,'' said his son, David Queen, a police officer in Washington.

``He taught me not to judge people. That if you respect and love people, they will do the same in return,'' said his daughter, Tamara Queen, a senior at Miami University in Oxford. ``He was personable, loving, caring, compassionate and sincere.''

Mr. Queen had a soothing demeanor and an endearing personality that made him a beloved figure long after he left the Beacon Journal. Friends said he was loved by people of all walks of life. Color had no boundaries with him.

``He cared more about other people than he did himself. I literally saw him give the shirt off his back and the last $10 in his pocket to someone in need,'' said golf buddy Mike Simon of Akron. ``He was a good friend. He listened well and always had something encouraging to say.''

Mr. Queen, who studied journalism at Kent State University and was a star basketball player in the U.S. Army, had no boundaries as a writer. His editors trusted him with myriad beats: Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Barons, Cleveland Force, the University of Akron.

``He approached what he did as a calling,'' said former Beacon Journal Sports Editor Tom Giffen. ``He had high standards for himself, whether he was writing about pee-wee football or a pro beat. He didn't know anybody he didn't like. He treated the seventh-grader with the same respect as the pro football player.''

The athletes and coaches admired him, too. He developed a lasting relationship with the likes of former Akron and current University of Cincinnati basketball coach Bobby Huggins.

``Roland was always very fair, and he cared about the people he covered,'' Huggins said.

Most athletes and coaches respected Mr. queen's opinions, in part, because he played the games. He had no greater passion than golf. He toiled at the game, trying to find the perfect swing. He was a grinder, who kept plugging away hole after hole, round after round.

`` `Why do I love this game,' he asked himself repeatedly,'' recalled Ralph Paulk, also a former Beacon Journal sportswriter. ``The answer was simple, really. He loved a challenge. He loved the game. Roland approached golf just as he did life and work.''

``He always strived to be a better golfer, a better person and a better writer,'' Paulk said. ``When I arrived at the Beacon Journal, Roland and (the late Beacon Journal sportswriter) Milan Zban taught me the ropes. Roland could be brutally honest in his critique, but it never overshadowed his compassion for others. He never hesitated to tell those close to him how much he loved them.''

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday following family visitation at 12:30 p.m. at the Rhoden funeral home, 1101 Palmetto Ave.

Marilyn Miller can be reached at 330-996-3098 or 800-777-7232 or mmiller@thebeaconjournal.com

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Saturday, October 23, 2004, page B7, col. 3]

Fitzpatrick wins award

Ex-Beacon Journal editor wins award

By Marilyn Miller
Beacon Journal staff writer
CLEVELAND - Pulitzer Prize-winning editor Al Fitzpatrick, formerly of the Akron Beacon Journal, is the winner of the 2004 American Journalism Historians Association local journalist award.

Fitzpatrick, who worked for 29 years at the Beacon Journal, was its first black reporter. He was news editor in 1970 when he supervised the newspaper's coverage of the May 4 Kent State University shootings. In 1977 he was executive editor.

In 1979, Fitzpatrick became coordinator of minority affairs for the Knight Ridder chain, owner of the Beacon Journal. He later moved to corporate headquarters, then in Miami, where he rose to assistant vice president.

He retired from Knight Ridder in 1994.

Fitzpatrick reminded journalists Thursday not to forget their fundamental responsibility -- to investigate and tell both sides of the story. He said people have easier access to information because of technology, but that doesn't ensure instant credibility. It's the journalist's job to sort through information and bring credibility to the table, he said.

Fitzpatrick was interim dean of journalism at Howard University in Washington, D.C., for a year and occasionally teaches a journalism course called Managing Diversity at his alma mater, Kent State.

His award was given during the AJHA convention held this week in Cleveland. The 23-year-old organization fosters research and teaching of journalism history.
Marilyn Miller can be reached at 330-996-3098 or 800-777-7232 or mmiller@thebeaconjournal.com

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Friday, October 22, 2004, page B7, col. 1]

Sheila Semonin obit

Sheila Semonin


Sheila M. Semonin (Nee McClarmon)

Sheila M. Semonin, 63, died Monday, Oct. 18, 2004.

Mrs. Semonin was a lifelong area resident who graduated from St. Martha Grade School and St. Vincent High School. She was a former librarian at the Beacon Journal, Mother of Sorrow Catholic Church, and the Hudson Library System. At the time of her retirement, she was employed by Chase Transcriptions. Sheila was an avid reader who enjoyed photogra phy and artistic endeavors. Her life was dedicated to helping others and, although she had many adversities, her wit and contagious smile made life bearable.

Preceded in death by her husband, William, she is survived by her daughters, Julie (Bill) Krukemeyer, Nora (Matt) Fleming, and Annie (Kirk) Weitz; grandchildren, Abby, Alex, Andrew, and Aaron Krukemeyer, and Jack Fleming; sister, Eileen Weber; brother, Steve (Michele) McClarnon; nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Calling hours will be Thurs day, 4 to 8 p.m., at the Dunn-Quigley, Ciriello & Carr Stow Chapel (Kent Road at Route 91). Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, 10 a.m., at St. Martha Catholic Church. Interment at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Peninsula. The family suggests memorials to the Lung Association.

(Dunn Quigley, Criello & Carr, Stow, 330-253-8121.)

Please sign the guest book at http://www.ohio.com/obituaries

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Wednesday, October 20, 2004, page B7, col. 4]

For Grandparents Only

Harry Liggett note: This is only for really old BJ types like me and courtesy of Dave Boerner:

WHAT IS A GRANDPARENT?

(taken from papers written by a class of 8-year-olds)

Grandparents are a lady and a man who have no little children of her own. They like other people's.

A grandfather is a man grandmother.

Grandparents don't have to do anything except be there when we come to see them. They are so old they shouldn't play hard or run. It is good if they drive us to the store and have lots of quarters for us.

When they take us for walks, they slow down past things like pretty leaves and caterpillars.

They show us and talk to us about the color of the flowers and also! Why we shouldn't step on "cracks."

They don't say, "Hurry up."

Usually grandmothers are fat, but not too fat to tie your shoes.

They wear glasses and funny underwear.

They can take their teeth and gums out.

Grandparents don't have to be smart.

They have to answer questions like "Why isn't God married?" and "How come dogs chase cats?".

When they read to us, they don't skip. They don't mind if we ask for the same story over again.

Everybody should try to have a grandmother, especially if you don't have television, because they are the only grown ups who like to spend time with us.

They know we should have snack-time before bedtime and they say prayers with us every time, and kiss us even when we've acted bad.

A 6 YEAR OLD WAS ASKED WHERE HIS GRANDMA LIVED. ''OH,'' HE SAID, ''SHE LIVES AT THE AIRPORT, AND WHEN WE WANT HER WE JUST GO GET HER. THEN WHEN WE'RE DONE HAVING HER VISIT, WE TAKE HER BACK TO THE AIRPORT.''

Send this to other grandparents. It will make their day.

Alfred C. Roseborough Obit

Alfred C. Roseborough


Alfred C. Roseborough

Alfred C. Roseborough, 86, passed away Oct. 16, 2004.

Born in Loudonville, he had been an Akron resident for most of his life, where he was a graduate of North High School. He retired from the Akron Beacon Jour nal, also worked at Goodrich, and was a former member of the Brown Street Baptist Church. He was kind, caring, and extremely gen erous, and always put everyone else before himself. He will be sadly missed.

Preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Mana, and son, Lowell, he is survived by his wife of 67 years, Kathryn; granddaughter, Sherry (Rob) Jewitt, and grandson, Kevin; great-grandchildren, Samantha and Michael; and daughter-in- law, Ernestine.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2004, at 11 a.m., at Eckard-Baldwin Sanctuary Chapel, 760 E. Market St., Rev. Eddy Wayne offici ating. Interment at Restland Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home for one hour prior to services, from 10 to 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to American Heart Association.

(Eckard-Baldwin 330-535-7141}
Please sign the guest book at www.ohio.com/obituaries

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Tuesday, October 19, 2004, page B7, col. 4]

Knight Ridder profits up 11 per cent

Third quarter profits rose 11 percent at Knight Ridder Inc., helped by a special tax gain in the quarter, a report by Reuters states. . The company did not provide an earnings outlook but said it expects revenue gains to continue in the fourth quarter as it works to keep expenses under control. A report in the Beacon Journal business section said net income increased to $76.9 million, or 99 cents a share, from $69.1 million, or 85 cents a share a year earlier. Shares rose $1.14 to $67.19. Knight Ridder with 31 newspapers is the

CEO Tony Ridder said ad revenue was strong in all major markets except Miami, where total revenue for the third quarter fell 1.7 percent. Ridder attributed the decline to the three hurricanes that struck the southeastern U.S. in September.

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ reported total advertising revenue for the quarter was $562.9 million, up 3.2% from $545.4 million in the same quarter of 2003. Total operating revenue was $722.2 million, up 2.1% from $707.2 million in the same quarter last year. Total operating profit for the quarter was $134.0 million, up 3.9% from $129.0 million in the third quarter of 2003. Net income of $76.9 million was up 11.2% from $69.1 million in the same quarter the previous year.

Commenting on the results, Ridder said, "We are pleased with the quarter's strong finish, boosted by September's very good results. Ad revenue was up 4.3% for the month, exactly the same as in August, with all of the large markets except Miami performing well. Ad revenue increases for the month ranged from 2.1% in St. Paul to 9.0% in Charlotte. Likewise, combined revenue for 18 of our mid-sized and smaller newspapers was up 8.0% in September.

"For the quarter, the pattern was similar, with all of the large markets (except Miami) showing ad revenue increases -- albeit in a tighter range. In Florida, overall revenue loss from three September hurricanes was greatest in Miami, where revenue for the month was down 4.4% and for the quarter was down 1.7%.

"Cost increases for the quarter were the lowest of the year -- up 1.7% on a 3.6% rise in newsprint, ink and supplements. Lower health care costs helped; while we had earlier anticipated their being flat for the year, we now think they will be down. For the quarter, labor and employee benefits were down 0.2%.

"Knight Ridder Digital revenue in the quarter was up 39%, to $29.9 million, with operating profit of $10.7 million (excluding equity losses from partially owned subsidiaries), double what it was in the same quarter last year. Also in the quarter, CareerBuilder maintained its audience lead over both Monster and Hot Jobs, averaging 13.8 million unique visitors in each of the three months, up 112.0% over the same quarter last year. CareerBuilder's Q3 average visitors were 43% greater than visitors to Hot Jobs, and 19% greater than jobs-related visitors to Monster.com.

Dawidziak Debut: A Christmas Carol

Mark Dawidziak, former Beacon Journal TV and movie critic, looms large in a 6-col. photo on the Beacon Journal Arts&Living front, page E1, of Thursday, October 14.

The photo accompanies a brightly written article by BJ staffer Kerry Clawson on the move of the Largely Literary Theater Co. to the beautifully renovated 700-seat Greystone Hall & Theatre in the former Masonic Temple at High and Mill streets downtown.

Mark and his wife, Sarah Showman, who lead the company, will open their third year with Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, December 10-18. Other productions include Robert Louis Stevenson’s A Child’s Garden of Verses April 2-3 and The Reports of My Death are Greatly Exaggerated May 21-22.. Fifty poems of Stevenson are featured in the April production and 14 scenes drawn from Mark Twain’s works in the May show.

Free parking will be available in garages on High and Broadway.

If you hurry, you can click on the headline above to link to the original article by Clawson and photos by Lew Stamp
[Ohio.com charges a small fee to view articles once they are archived.]

Obit: George Richards, adv. dept.

George Richards

George W. Richards passed away Oct. 7, 2004.
He was born in 1914 and lived his entire life in Ak ron within five miles of his birthplace. He attended the old West High school and graduat ed from the University of Akron in the class of 1936. He was a mem ber of Phi Sigma Kappa. After 25 years in the advertising department of the Akron Beacon Journal, he left to form his own advertising company, George W. Richards Advertising, Inc., which he operated until his retirement in 1990. He created the first advertising for such clients as the Lawson Milk Co., Walden of Aurora, and Home Centers, for whom his advertising presentation twice won them the coveted Brand Name Retailer of the Year award.
His lifelong hobbies were photography, golf, and travel. He was a former member of Silver Lake Country Club and Myerlee Country Club of Fort Myers, Fla., where he resided six months of the year. His travels took him to over 40 countries on every continent but Antarctica. A member of St. Paul's Episcopal church for 50 years, he served on its vestry from 1985 to 1987. He was a 50-year veteran of Akron Lodge 83 F&AM and also held the 32nd degree in Freemasonry.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Ellen, and is survived by wife, Irene, whom he married in 1984. Other sur vivors are son, Dr. Keith Richards of Cape Cod; daughter, Judith Hoschner of Owosso, Mich.; daughter-in-law, Lynn Richards; and son-in-law Robert Hoschner. Two stepsons, Rob ert Morris of Mission Viejo, Cali f., and Howard Morris of Ritt man, Ohio, survive, with their wives, Shari and Francey. There are five grandchildren, Scott and Jeffrey Richards, Kristin, Jay, and Robert Hoschner; sev en stepgrandchildren, including Mark, Matthew, and Stacy Morris in California, and Jessica, Adam, Michael, and Andrew Morris in Rittman.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. TUESDAY in the chapel at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, corner of Kenilworth Drive and West Market Street, with Dr. Richard L. McCandless officiating. Interment at Rose Hill Burial Park. Friends may call at the Billow Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Merriman Activity Fund, 209 Merriman Rd., Akron, Ohio 44303, or the American Cancer Society, 1900 W. Market St., Akron, Ohio 44313
. (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 330-867- 4141.)
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Saturday, October 9, 2004, page B7, col. 2]

Guild e-mail on Tony Ridder's letter

Here is e-mail from Rollie Dreussi, Northeast Ohio Guild rep. Mark Davis who is mentioned is a district Guild rep. and Karen (Chuparkoff) Lefton, is BJ management rep. The "situation" is the benefit cuts mentioned in the letter to BJ retirees from Tony Ridder. Here is the e-mail from Dreussi:

Mark Davis spoke to Karen Lefton of the BJ today. She
has contacted a Knight Ridder official who claims he
was unaware of the situation. He was to check with
another KR official who handles health care trusts in
Knight Ridder.
Mark and I think it may be a good idea if the retirees
also call the BJ Human Resources Department (you could
ask for Karen Lefton), so they know you all are upset
by this change.
Mark has told Lefton we've calls at the Guild office,
but it never hurts to complain to the source, also.
We have not received a date yet for the grievance. We
also are waiting for Lefton to let us know what the KR
people say.
Rollie Dreussi
Local Representative
Local 1
Northeast Ohio Newspaper Guild

Some BJ connections in Atlanta

This information is from Dick McBane:

There are at least three former Beacon Journalists working in the media in Atlanta, two of them with the Atlanta Journal Constitution.

Janet Frankston has been with the AJC for about five years and is primarily covering problems of growth in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Her most recent was a major piece on the regional 25-year transportation plan. If carried out, the plan will cost about $50-billion, traffic will still be snarled, and there will be no expansion of MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Regional Transit Authority); but the population is expected to increase by 2.3-million.

Reaching farther back into the Beacon Journal's past, there is Bill Osinski who also is with the AJC and is covering religion for the Gwinnett (County) News, which is a separate daily section of the AJC. Bill says he remembers his ABJ years fondly.

There is also Morse Diggs who is reporting for WAGA, Channel 5, the Fox channel in Atlanta. Morse covered the Akron police department at the time of the Barbuto scandal.

Guild Retiree benefits cuts loom

Text of letter received by retirees:


>KNIGHTRIDDER>

September 29, 2004

RNL-00065-03
HARRY LIGGETT
544 N FIRESTONE BLVD AKRON, OH 44301

Important News About Your Knight Ridder Retiree Benefits

Dear HARRY LIGGETT:

We are writing to let you know about some upcoming changes to your Knight Ridder Retiree Benefits. You'll see more information in October, but we wanted to let you know now that some changes are being made.

Health Care Benefits

As you may know, the escalating cost of health care in general, and retiree medical and prescription benefits in particular, has presented a major challenge over the last decade or so.

Like all employers, Knight Ridder has responded by making changes to our programs. We have increased the premiums that our employees must pay for their own coverage, and to cover a spouse or dependent children. We have made changes to benefit designs that also increase the employee's cost burden.

Those who retired from Knight Ridder since the current retiree health benefit program was implemented have also experienced change. Modifications to plan designs covering employees apply to these retirees as well. Retiree premiums under this program have risen dramatically in response to increasing costs.

On the other hand, those like yourself who retired before the current program was implemented ("grandfathered retirees") have generally not seen any changes to their coverage, or to their premium, since retirement.

The Company realizes that those who have been retired for many years may not be in a position to now absorb large cost increases. But, given the burden that employees and more recent retirees have had to bear, we believe it is appropriate, as the plan provides, to make some updates to the deductible and coverage provided through your Company retiree medical plan.

Our goal has been to make only relatively modest changes to these plans for 2005 - although we recognize that because so many years have gone by with no update, the changes may appear more significant than if they had occurred gradually. A secondary goal has been to reduce a large administrative burden by consolidating the multiple plan designs wherever possible.

The changers sometimes involve an increase to the annual deductible, increases in some plan
co-pays (including co-pays for prescription drugs) or co-insurances, and in some cases a new method for coordinating plan benefits with Medicare. Dental or vision coverage, for those who currently receive it, is being discontinued. .

We will not be introducing or increasing retiree health care premiums in connection witl these changes.

Benefit changes are automatically effective January 1, 2005. We are announcing these changes
as early as possible to give you time to consider coverage alternatives.

We know you will have questions. Therefore we’ve established a Knight Ridder Retiree
Information Line, staffed by trained specialists on the Company's retiree health program and how these changes affect you. Please call 800-561-0842 to speak to a representative between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, except holidays.

Sincerely,

Tony Ridder Mary Jean Connors
Chairman and CEO Senior Vice President/Human Resources
Knight Ridder Knight Ridder

Roland Queen in hospital

October 1, 2004

Former Beacon sportswriter Roland Queen is in Room 707 at Akron City Hospital and would like to hear from his former co-workers. The phone number at the hospital is 330-375-4707.
Queen, 41 years old, was first diagnosed with multiple myeloma cancer in 2000. His condition relapsed about four days ago and he was admitted to the hospital. He expects to go back on chemotherapy soon. Multiple myeloma cancer attacks the bone marrow. You can learn more about it on the internet. Search on "Multiple+myeloma+cancer" for a list of articles about it.

Update from Kathy Lally

When our e-mail address list to Kathy Lally bounced, we started looking around and found that she had left the Baltimore Sun and was now working on temporary assignment with the Washington Post. Finally it dawned on us to try an old e-mail address for Kathy and her Pulitzer-prize winning husband Will Englund. They spent a couple of tours of duty reporting for the Sun in Russia. Now it appears Kathy may be teaching Russians some reporting. Here’s e-mail received September 28 from her:

“I left The Sun at the end of July. After 29 years there, I decided it was time to try something else. I've been filling in on the Outlook section of the Washington Post, for someone who is on leave, working as an editor on the section. (It's the Sunday opinion section.) Next, I'm thinking about taking on an assignment to teach reporting and writing to reporters in the former Soviet Republic of Georgia. I'll keep you posted.”

A good e-mail address for Kathy is will.kathy@starpower.net

Click on the headline above to read one of Kathy’s recent articles for the Washington Post. This one is headlined “Stuff a Ton of Stuff Into 80 Square Feet, and Say Goodbye” It provides a ton of interesting statistics about the annual migration of students to campus. Her daughter is a freshman this year.

Retired and tired in Florida

Terry and Cecily Dray and Dave and Gina White are both retired and tired in Florida after four hurricanes. Here are their latest reports secured by John Olesky:

From Terry & Cecily Dray, who live in Avon Park, FL:
We made it thru another one. This one went right thru Avon Park...kind of came right up Highway 27. We didn't leave town...nowhere to go. By the time we knew for sure it was coming, it was too late. The only routes considered safe were going West and we wanted to go North. But, again, we were blessed with no damage. Power just came back on (about 1:00 p.m. Tuesday. It went out at 3:30 a.m. on Sunday. About half of Avon Park is still without power. It seems that the power companies sent most of their people to the Panhandle to help with Ivan, leaving us with...well, not much. The reports on damage in this area are 6 times the combined damage of Charlie and Frances. We are still under a mandatory curfew from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Thanks for thinking of us. Terry & Cecily

From Dave & Gina White who live in Venice, FL:
Hey John,
Enough is enough! Four hurricanes in six weeks. You can't believe how it takes a toll on your nerves. Again we were very lucky, no damage, gusts at 47 miles an hour and steady wind between 25 to 30 mph and no flooding. Poor Punta Gorda got 3 of the 4 hurricanes. It's only 20 miles from us. I see that WVA is in 6th place, is that the same WVA I Know. They must of made the field level this year!
Your Friends, Dave & Gina

Cullison interviews Gable in 1958

Recalled Stories from the Beacon Journal:

Mark J. Price wrote an insightful article on Clark Gable in the Beacon Journal on Monday, September 20, 2004 (page E1) which mentioned a piece by Art Cullison on April 4, 1958. Cullison interviewed Gable and his wife, Kay (wife No. 5) at Cleveland where Gable was making a personal appearance tour to promote his movie, “The Teacher’s Pet.”

Price’s article prompted me to check the 1958 piece by Cullison. Click on the headline above to read the story.

To read the article by Price, go to Ohio.com at

http://www.ohio.com/mld/ohio/living 710633.htm

You may have to register (free) to access it.

Beacon Journal honored

Associated Press

COLUMBUS - The Akron Beacon Journal won first place in business and arts coverage for 2003 from the Ohio Society of Professional Journalists, while a staff reporter and photographer each won best of show.

More than 900 entries were submitted by 120 news organizations. In the print category for circulation of 100,000 or more, the newspaper won the following awards:

Best business coverage: first place, ``Legacy of Decline,'' by John Russell.

Best arts reporting: first place, ``Arts Recession,'' staff.

Best coverage of children's issues: second place, ``Kenmore Abuse Case,'' John Higgins, Andale Gross, Keith McKnight, Carl Chancellor, Phil Trexler, Kymberli Hagelberg, Stephen Dyer, and David Knox and staff.

Best explanatory journalism: second place, ``Focus on: Independent Inventors,'' by Paula Schleis.

Best sports coverage: second place, ``Boys of Spring,'' by Keith McKnight and Ed Meyer.

In best of show, Lew Stamp won as best photographer, and Cheryl Powell won as best reporter (as did reporter Kelly Lecker of the Toledo Blade).

The Beacon Journal's online partner, Ohio.com, won first place for best web site.

A T-shirt for Monia

The WVU 1100 Club at West Viriginia University presented retiree John Olesky and his granddaughter Beth, 14, with a T-shirt with the name of Olesky'’s late wife, Monia, on it at the East Carolina game on September 4. The club raised $3,700 in memory of Monia and another WVU fan who also died this year. Combined with $4,300 raised by the FanNet WVU message board, that'’s $8,000 donated to WVU in Monia'’s memory. John and Monia have been such ardent fans that they have the flying WV logo on their grave marker. The 1100 club raises money to be used for coaches’ recruiting expenses.

Maxine Lozier on the hurricanes

“Charley" wasn't good to us, without electric for a week and weather in the nineties. That's a lot better than Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte - those poor people are still recovering. One of our son-in-laws is in Port Charlotte, with FEMA and says they still have a long way to go, he's working 12 hours a day. In other words we were very, very lucky.

"Frances" gave us forty to fifty mile winds-no damage. The electric was off and on but not for any long period of time. Again we were lucky.

"Ivan," I'm worried about, a category five hurricane could crumble this house of ours, I'm sure. Especially after looking at the pictures coming through my computer.
All of this isn't enough, our son-in-law passed away in Holland Michigan (my daughter, Pam's husband). When this is over, I'm thinking about writing a book -- there's a lot that I haven't put in writing that would make a good story at least for a smile, after the worst is over and forgotten.

Thanks for listening, I feel better now. Maxine Lozier lozimax@aol.com

Dodging Hurricanes

Dave & Gina White and Terry & Cecily Dray are dodging hurricanes about every other week, it seems. The Drays have been in the path twice, but only have one downed orange tree and another damaged orange tree out of all of that. Miraculous, actually. Here are e-mails sent to John Olesky:

>From Terry & Cecily Dray:

We are doing fine. Yes, once again we were ground zero. The eye came right thru Avon Park. Winds were not as bad but storm lasted well over 12 hours. We were without power ab out 36 hours this time (which is better than 5 days). We are now watching Ivan and have decided to go north if he turns this way. We don't fear for our safety, and are becoming old hands at this hurricane stuff, but going without power in the aftermath is just too much to go thru a third time. Thanks for your concern,
Terry & Cecily

>From Dave & Gina White:

Well John we were missed again! Hope Ivan will do the same. We had wind gusts at 46 mph, steady wind 20-26 mph. Only 2" of rain, just a normal Florida weekend. We hope the Drays lucked out also. But by the weather maps it looked like Frances was going right over Avon Lake, Sebring area. Charley was to the left of us and Frances was to the right, hope Ivan doesn't go in the middle!
Dave & Gina