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Robert Cowing (1965)

Craig – I am intrigued by your artistic bent. It seems you have been drawing since high school? Only pencil or do you use charcoal? Tried any other mediums?  What about subject matter? Ever tried political satire cartooning? How about competitions i.e. state and county fairs etc.?

Duane Jackson (1965)

To All:    I was sent to Korea in 1965.....I had finished my Advance Training at Fort Knox Ky, and sent by troop ship to Korea.....The Troop ship took 21 days to get there, and when we got to Guam, 3/4 's of the ship got off and was sent to Viet Nam....This was during the time of the build up of US forces........I spent my 12 months in the North part of South Korea around a city/village called "Munson/Munsen"...Stayed there for 5 months and then sent to the north side of the river "Imjin" south of the DMZ, to a compound/camp called "Clinch" for 7 months....I worked/patroled/guard duties in towers watching North Korean soliders north of the DMZ.   One time while partolling the line that divides the two countries...( which is a line of barbed wire stung on iron poles and is still there to this day) I came in contact with some North Korea soliders....They wanted to talk about why we (US Army) was there supporting the corrupt South Korean goverment, being 19, I could care less why, just that, that was my duty and job in the Army....We were always armed and packing for possible fire fights, but never had to shot anyone.......When I got to South Korea, the country was dirty and smelly....Every where as stone cold poverty, folks in the county side lived in mud huts with what lumber they could steal from the Army compound, they had folks that would steal things from moving trucks if possible, I never saw that, but did have a thieft break the wire while on guard duty, trying to get in the compound to steal any thing, (He didn't get any thing)  There dirt roads North of Seoul and every where I travled, I lived in Quanson Huts that were cold in the winter and hot in the summer and alway diry/dusty, but you get use to it.......Now going back in November 2015, that county of my past no longer is there, it all new and growing and folks are tall, healthy and busy...Quite a shock to me to see, but very glad I did get to see it...........No the green gremins aint there, they all got Hyndays/KIA's and fancy buses like San Fran now.............I some times think back to just why I ended up there and not Viet Nam, and it haunts me, but its where the Army and my country wanted me to be, so there I was for 12 months, coming home in Dec 1966....I spent all of my time when I could dreaming of the 4/5/6 lanes roads, Kents Drive Inn and State Theater,and of Vicki...I couldn't wait to get back and Marry her......That part kept me going day to day, week to week, month to month.....thinking of ...Vicki L Hayden....She..was my life line to the states......

Linda Lopez (1967)

Thanks, Duane for sharing your story. We lost some really great guys that were willing to do their duty. Thanks again for opening up your past so we can feel what you had to endure. I know it is a small part that you have shown but appreciate it more than you may understand.

While we were here in the US we endured watching others run to Canada, trash the ones that were fighting. A very stressful time in our history. It didn't hit me until the 25 year mark.

When we were fighting for the people in Kawait, I went to the Post Office and a man that ran to Canada was standing there telling everyone as they walked by him that we should not be fighting. I asked him if his father had fought and he said yes, WWII. I told him that I thank his dad for standing up as a man for me and my freedom. Freedom is not free. 

Dan Ree (Ree) (1964)

Craig.....enjoy it ! Isn't something that many of us had fun messing around doodling, cutting up in class and sometimes throwing spit wads....we somehow turned out to be productive citizens.   After graduation I sat at my home the day after our all night party and wonder what the hell was I going to do next!   I made up my mine to get a job,have a hot rod and girlfriends  LOL .   Then came the Big Day September 1964....I received my Draft Notice.   Things final changed...rest is history I serve well as many in Woodland had.  Yes some did not make it back whom I knew and today remember them everyday.   In summary, messing up in high school or even grammer school allow us to do what we do today and remember those lost as we are doing every segment on this post, Let's keep it going it's good medicine!!!

Darlene Hooker (Kirch-Brown) (1965)

In response to your request to list influential people that we have met over the years, I have to say that working for the California State Senate for 23 years I have come across quite a few that have been in the Capitol receiving awards and speaking on different pieces of legislation that has come up. I will just list the more memorable ones.

Of course, many politicians but the most interesting was President Gerald Ford whom I got to chat with and have my picture taken with him. Then there was Governor’s George Deukmejian, Pete Wilson, Arnold Schwarzenegger & Maria Shriver along with the many Senators and Assemblypersons that were in and out of our office.

John Stamos came to the capitol to testify on one of our bills and I actually got to drive him and his two companions to and from the airport.

Chuck Yeager, the first person to break the sound barrier along with Col. Pete Knight who holds the world's speed record for flight in a winged, powered aircraft were two extremely interesting men to talk to.

Many athletes including Tyler Clarey, the Gold medal winner for the 200 meter back stroke in London in 2012. Of course he brought along his gold medal for us to look at and hold.

Carol Channing and Bo Derek (remember her in the movie “10”).

Then there was Jack and his wife Elaine LaLanne, the godfather of physical fitness. At 90 something he still looked amazing.

There was also James Dobson, of Focus on the Family radio show and Tim & Beverly LaHaye who wrote the “Left Behind” series.

I have many found memories of my time at the Capitol.

Janice Bell (Killian) (1966)

Rosalinda Martinez (1966)

Woodland Community College has set up an exhibit of Americans of Japanese descent in Yolo County.  It includes their contribution to the prosperity of the county through farming, family stories, and the internment during WWII.  Some of our classmates from Woodland High have contributed pictures and memorabilia.  There are also a couple of WHS year books (1940 & 1941) which shows an active Japanese Club at Woodland High during that time.

There will be a "Day or Remembrance" event on Friday, Feb. 19 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Multicultura Enrichment Center. Building 100.  If you cannot make the event, the exhibit will be open to the public Monday through Thursday from 12 to 5 pm in Building 100 through the rest of Frebruary.

Janice Bell (Killian) (1966)

Theresa Eve (1964)

The Wooldand Forum has been most informative in so many ways.  I was glad we all posted some great memory stories about Branigan Turkeys before the loss of Terrill Walter Branigan, thoughts and prayers to his loving family.   Branigan Turkeys will always be a great part of Woodland and Yolo County.  So nice to keep the Branigan Family in such fond memories as noted.  The Americans of Japanese descent in Yolo County is a great piece of history.  Glad this notice was posted for this February at the Woodland Community College.  Thank you.

Theresa Eve (1964)

I remember Sue Ellen Morelli, as very pretty.  She and Paul were quite the couple in Woodland High School; she was in the class of 1964 and Paul was in the class of 1962.  They made a great couple and now have come to the end of a lovely story.  My very best to Paul and his family.  May Sue rest in peace after her cancer, she is in the arms of our Lord.  Many blessings.   

Doyle Phillips (1961)

Just wondering was post #3176 page 128 the last post? I seam to be losing or missing posts. 

Dan Ree (Ree) (1964)

I have noticed a lot of those I graduated with have not been on this site in awhile judging by their post under their names.   Wondering what other sites are they going to?    I was wondering if anyone knows Judy Newton Class of 1964?  I have not been in Woodland over 30 years now and not familar who is there other than on this site.  Some say do not look here and miss some of the posting.    Just wondering if another means to communicate to others??

Duane Jackson (1965)

Dan Ree

You can only wax poetic so much about the past.....It's great that this has lasted longer than thought, but like you I left Woodland in 76, and don't come back after my mother died in 95 other than for the reunions for WHS between my wife and self................Our Woodland stopped when we left...Others who have stayed in town see a small change to it (?) and lived with it and those changes.........Being close to 70 now, I've changed to enjoy the slower pase, as most of the world has passed me by....I enjoy time spent with my grandson's and watching them do and plan for the future...I hope this site lasts as long as possible, but as in all things, things change...................I shout out to all of my friends that still remember me and a big "Howdy" for them, to Paula Anderson.."Happy Early Birthday"

Love and Peace Ya'll

Dan Ree (Ree) (1964)

Duane....very true.   I just got on this site after I was able to buy another Year book  to replace the one I lost and was brave enough to explore this site and was surprise how many on it.    We can not fix the past even though it had it's brighter issue of living and the hostile world we live today, having to watch your back, carry a conceal weapon and to have to have ones living in your house trained to use a firearm for fear of a door kick end.....yes we have them in Bakersfield even the better neighborhoods.   I thought that was behind me when I retired from the police dept. in 1982....boy I was wrong.     I have made many friends here in Bakersfield who have graduated at Bakersfield High School in 1964 and can not believe how many have stayed here compared to Woodland.  Bakersfield during that period was same size as Woodland....Farm Community ETC>   The high school I just mention was built in 1900"s and some of the originial look stayed just re-enforced and replumbed.  It reminds me of WHS so I have adjusted to what is to what I have here,.   Many of our grandparents had a role in building Woodland so have our parents.   My grandfather had a Tailor For Men Shop in the Porter Building.  I remember my mom taking me and brothers to Dr. Blevins Office for our shots and swimming at Municiple Pool.   I get it...the past is the past but nice to remember the ones that left us too soon through fatal auto Collisions to Illness.   When I went back for my Dads Funeral, Woodland showing changes that took away the Old Beauty it was built on.   Now , saw photos that look like every other City.....no eye appeal.  Dan Wirth designed a lot of the older homes and business back then/   It hard to find many of the ones I want to communicate with them, but unless you have their email, it hard!   Many have left to other states or cities.  Too bad we didn't have the internet back then???    Before I get off here...Is Gilbert Jackson related to You?

JoAnn Kergel (Wirth) (1965)

Dan, Perhaps you mean Gary Wirth?  Dan Wirth left Woodland in 1964 & we only come back to visit family.  Dan was a career fire fighter/paramedic/chief for 25 years and we have been in Eugene, OR since 1976.  We saw Gary not long ago and he is happy to be retired as well. 

Dan Ree (Ree) (1964)

OOps.....I was wrong.   I had Dan on my mine trying to get caught up on the ones I went to Harriett Lee and WHS. I purchased a book on ebay called ' Crafting a Valley Jewel which features Architects and Builders of Woodland.  There's a section which features Gary and Bill McCandless.   In the article it states Gary started with Robert Crippen's Architectural firm while in high school.  In 1983 Gary Wirth&Associates hired Bill McCandles as an associate architect.   Does that bring back memories.   I have always been interested by Woodland building then and do today .   I have shown some of the Bakersfield City Officials and they are interested in Woodland's Past and Designs.   My dad Elmer Ree work in construction starting with Hickey and Fisher  and on to Jay Bailey Construction...  Thanks for the update and nice talking to you.

Tom Stewart (1969)

It seems that after a while we run out of memories concerning Woodland.  My great grandmother moved to Woodland as a young girl and they came from Iowa in a covered wagon.  She often told me stories of Woodland in the old days.  They had a large farm East of the fair grounds where the trailer parks are now located.  My great aunt lived in an old victorian house next to Freeman Park on Court Street.  I am attaching a few pictures from the old days when they farmed that area.......

Gail Smith (Maxwell) (1964)

Great pictures Tom!  Love to see those old pictures!

Justene Manchester (Lipphardt) (1963)

 I hope that the people just checking in to this message forum will go back to the very first pages.  There are so many great memories that everyone shared about growing up in our little town.  Always love when they include pictures.   It is always nice to hear from students from our past.  I remember you, Dan Ree, from grade school.  Always remember you as Danny.  Interesting how boys start out as Danny, Johnny, Billie, Tommy, Bobby, etc. and then change it when they get older.  :-)  There weren't many girl's names that could be changed like that.  

Dan Ree (Ree) (1964)

Justene....yes I do remember you.   My mom called me ' Danny '  and when I got older, it was not cool to be call Danny but changed to Dan LOL!!    When I joined the Woodland Police Dept. Chief Andreozzi called me Danny....could not correct him could I.   My Partner when I started riding Motors also called me Danny. It is funny how we change as we get older or should I say Adults!!!  I enjoy talking to others I knew in Woodland...keep the conversation going!

Dan Ree (Ree) (1964)

Tom ....the memories I do not think will ever disappear, we are her today to tell others of the great past about Woodland.  It was those before us who built Woodland where we were able to walk the sidewalks without fear of 'dry by shootings ' and todays event.   Keep the past pictures and stories going  I like them.   I have a photo of the Yolo Theatre on College St. by Dead Cat Alley showing two guys buying ticket at the front ticket booth...remember them???    The Porter was showing ' House On Telegraph Hill '  also  Robinson    Turpin   Fight.   I got this photo from Evelyn Mardens who manage the State Theatre on Main St.   The photo also shows my grandfather shop window    J. D. Ree     Tailor To Men      in the  building next to the Theatre.

Duane Jackson (1965)

Response to Dan Ree...............My full name is Gilbert Duane Jackson, like you when I got out of the Army, I started using my first name for work&such and use/know by it to this day....Only family and friends from WHS still call me Duane....Yes, you and I worked together, rather I was guided by you and others as a Police Reserve from 73 to 76 there in Woodland.  Tried for years to get on with WPD, but they always took the outsider for the positions....When I moved to Modesto in 76, I had to give up my status with WPD, Asst Chief Barton wrote me a great letter of reference that helpded me get on as a Reserve out at Waterford PD for 2 years, and then with Modesto PD for 15.  I got to retire as a Retired Reserve with/from them, no money just title and an old ID Card stating that I had retired as a Reserve.  Had a CCW for years, but lost it locally, was told the last time I tried and was turned down that the PD could protect me and I no longer should need it, the SO gives them out, but takes a year or better to get'em...I've moved on, but still have my duty weapon and .357/.45/9mm.....Stay safe Brother

Theresa Eve (1964)

Tom Stewart, love those old pictures with men working with horses.  I have an old picture of my Dad working on the family farm in Indiana, just about like the one you posted.  It really was not that long ago.  Gail, I agree with you, those old pictures and history are wonderful.  I have learned a lot from all the input on families in Woodland and Yolo County.   Many families, like the Wirth family, added so much to the community, and I just learned from the messages shared.  

Dan Ree (Ree) (1964)

duane....I thought that was you but had to ask.   I have a photo of you that the Daily Democrat took with you showing shell casing on the lawn where i had to shoot murder suspect Charles Chase,  suspected of killing his family member in Tehama County.  Do you remember that?   I agree it was not a happy moment when the City decided to hire outside the City.  When Chief Andreozzi retired , Asst. Chief Barton was next in line for Chief.  Oh no.....The City Council had outsider on board and wanted to change the outlook of the Dept. and hired a candidate from Ventura who did not like the older officers and made us take Sgt. examines....I and another declined did not want to be a Sgt. I was a traffic officer......we were placed on Graveyard.  Some of the older officer froze their retirements and some like me left with a medical retirements.   That's all Water under the Bridge.   I am happy now  diagnose as today's PTSD.   I doing okay now.   Thanks for the memories!!

Duane Jackson (1965)

Yes Dan, I kept that "Press Clipping" myself from the paper and look at it once in a while.............Those were the days.........Glad your doing well...................Another front, I too I'm glad that the ones who lived longer than I in Woodland have shared old history and photos of it.......Marrying Vicki and her family having lived in both Woodland and Yolo for years, she can remember different things from the past....I was a transplant from Sacramento in 59, so my memories start there...............Thanks every one for the shares.......................I look forward to seeing/hearing more till the string runs out.............................