Thomaston High School - Owl Yearbook (Thomaston, CT)

Text from Pages 1 - 64 of the 1956 volume:

FOREWORD High School graduation will mark for most of the Class of '56 the “parting of the ways.” Academic majors will go on with their formal education; commercial and general students will take jobs or otherwise begin their active participation in the adult world. The chances of their ever gathering again as a whole are few, and the Class of ’56 will soon become part of the history of Thomaston High School. In publishing this yearbook, our aim is to record the happenings of the high school years and to present the graduates with a book representative of all their activities. These years cannot be forgotten, and in the future the pages of the Owl will recall many pleasant memories. Linda Roesing ’57, Editor To Mr. Harold Hendrickson whose outstanding personality and ability make English so enjoyable, whose sincerity and interest have guided the Drama Club to success, whose friendliness has made him admired and respected by all, and who has helped our class in every way, the members of the Class of 1956 with sincere gratitude and affection dedicate this yearbook. CONTENTS Foreword 2 Dedication 3 Administration and Faculty 5 Seniors 11 Underclassmen 21 Organizations 31 Athletics 41 Activities 49 Thomaston High School Building BOARD OF EDUCATION Seated: 1. to r. Kenneth Tingley. Mrs. Agnes White, Dr. Daniel Samson, Gilbert Nase, Chairman, Ulric Mather. Standing: I. to r. Peter Kurdcka, John Boguslawski, William Driscoll, Harry Lynch, Scavey Morse, Superintendent. Superintendent’s Message Whether a seventh grader or senior, you will find, recorded in this Owl, a portion of your contributions to Thomaston High School. Personal contributions to society benefit society as a whole and, in doing so, benefit the individuals making such contributions. So it is at Thomaston High School; personal efforts contributed to the school are self-rewarding to your mental, moral and physical growth. May your contributions continue to be numerous, worthwhile, and successful. Sincerely, Seavey Morse Superintendent B.S., St. Lawrence University M.A., University of Connecticut Principal’s Message The swiftly passing days of school will soon bring us to another commencement season: the time for going forward to further education, to the long-sought after job, or to other experiences in the post-school world. It is my sincerest wish that your days spent in Thomaston High School will have prepared you, to some degree, for the happiness and satisfaction that comes with the knowledge of a task well done. Albert B. Ebner Principal Ph.B., Brown University Ed.M., University of New Hampshire ALBERT B. EBNER Ph.B., Brown; Ed.M., University of New Hampshire. Principal. Guidance. National Honor Society Sponsor. ROBERT H. WYLLIE B.S.. Ed.M., Boston University. Mathematics. Senior Class Adviser, Owl Adviser. NORMAN A. FAGERQUIST B.S.. Hyannis Teachers’ College; M.A., New York University. Physical Education. Driver Training. Athletic Council Adviser. Coach Varsity Sports. Intramural Athletics. ROSE E. LYNCH B.S., Arnold College. Health. Physical Education. Cheerleaders’ Sponsor. Girls’ Coach. Athletic Council Adviser. ROSA F. GANGLOFF B.S., Boston University; M.A.. Columbia University. English. Social Studies. Citizenship. Seventh Grade Adviser. Junior Red Cross Adviser. Pen-Pal Club. ERNESTINE McCRILLIS B.S.. Simmons College; Ed.M.. Boston University. Business Subjects. Guidance Counselor, Senior Class Adviser. National Honor Society Adviser. Owl Adviser. ENOS M. DRUMM B.A.. Bates College. Science. National Honor Society Adviser. RONALD MIECZNIKOWSKI Niagara University. B.S., Trinity College. Chemistry. Biology, Mathematics. GEORGE E. ROBINSON B.A., University of Connecticut; M.A., New York University. Music Supervisor. Sponsor Music Clubs. GEORGIA H. DUNTERMAN B.A., Pennsylvania State University. English. Social Studies. Owl Adviser. Eighth Grade Adviser. WALTER A. SCHMIDT B.A.. Williams College; Ed.M.. Tufts College. History. Driver Training. J. V. Baseball and Basketball. Student Council Adviser. Freshman Class Adviser. MYRTLE P. BARKER B.A., Colby College. English, Latin. Seventh Grade Adviser. EVELYN A. GOODWIN B.A.. Newcomb College; M.A., Boston University. French. English. Sophomore Class Adviser. Librarian, Bibliosoph Adviser. SEAVEY MORSE B.S., St. Lawrence University; M.A.. University of Connecticut. Superintendent of Schools. ELEANOR MAHAR B.S., Farmington Teachers’ College. Home Economics, Freshman Class Adviser. HELEN S. PLATT A.B.. Russell-Sage College; Radcliffe College. P.A.D.. Modern Early European History. Forum Radio. National Honor Society. Adviser, Brown Gold. Adviser. DORIS WATERS B.S., Boston University. Art Supervisor, Owl Adviser. CHARLES P. HOLBROOK B.S., New Britain Teachers' College; Ed.. Hillyer College. English. Social Studies, Eighth Grade Adviser. Junior High Basketball Coach. LUCILLE MARTIN R.N.. Waterbury Hospital School Nurse. WILLIAM G. DOMONELL B.S.. New Britain Teachers’ College; Ed.M.. Hillycr Col- Mathematics. Eighth Grade Adviser. Owl Adviser. THOMAS F. MURPHY B.S.. Bryant College. Business Subjects. Junior Class Adviser. School Treasurer. ETHEL JOHNSON Secretary to the Principal. GRACE MASON Secretary to the Superintendent. HARRY W. ARNOLD Keene Teachers’ College; B.Ed.. N. H. University. N. H. Technical Institute. General Shop. THOMAS F. REYNOLDS B.S.. New Britain Teachers’ College; M.A.. Fairfield University. Industrial Arts. LUCAS J. PASQUARIELLO B.A.. Amherst College: M. A.. New York University. Science. Eighth Grade Adviser. HAROLD V. HENDRICKSON B.A.. Union College; M.A.. University of Connecticut; M.A.. Middlcbury College. English. Sophomore Class Adviser. Drama Club Coach. SENIORS MICHAEL HAROLD SAVAGE Quick and determined basketball captain . . . “Mickey” our popular president . . . contagious grin and prominent freckles . . . fun maker. Class President 4; Vice-President 3; Student Council 1, 2; Athletic Council I; Band 1, 2. 3; J. V. Basketball 1. 2; V. Basketball 3. 4; V. Baseball 1, 2, 3, 4; V. Soccer 1, 2, 3, 4. JOAN ARLENE CIAK Legal connections . . . brunette beauty on the tall side . . . dependable secretary . . . pleasant and popular. Class secretary 4; Class Marshall. ’55: F. H. A. 1, 2, 3, Historian 2, President 3; Glee Club 1, 2; Drama Club 2. 4; Student Council 2; Bowling Club 1. 2, 3; Owl Staff 3, 4; Thomascope 2; Class Basketball 2, 3. GEORGE HARRY KINDNESS The perpetual pipe . . . startling bass voice . . . noted ability for leadership . . . tops on the trumpet. Class President 1, 2, 3; Vice-President 4; Band 1, 2, President 3, 4; Orchestra 1, 2; Glee Club 1; Drama Club 3. President 4; Nutmeg Boys' State; Class Marshall. ’55; Dance Band 1. 2, 3; Latin Club 2; Soccer 2, 3, 4; J. V. Basketball 1; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3. BEATRICE A. BERNATCHEZ Dark beauty and dreamy complexion . . . well-dressed seamstress . . . handles the senior funds . . . cheer-leading charmer . . . “Bea.” Class Treasurer 2. 3, 4; National Honor Society 3. 4; Glee Club 1, 2; Band 1, 2; Bowling 1, 2, 3, 4; Drama Club 2; J. V. Basketball 1; Cheerleader 2 alt., 3. 4; Class Basketball 2, 3, 4. DONALD EDWARD KIELY Lemmon’s right-hand man . . . perfect and positive trombone . . . tall, smartly dressed leader . . . fun-loving . . . “Don.” National Honor Society 3, 4, President 4; Student Council 3, 4. President 4; Athletic Council 3; Latin Club 2; Glee Club 1, 2; Special Chorus 4; Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Dance Band 2, 3. KATE K. WOODBRIDGE Perfect picture of an English lady . . . popular and active class member . . . “Katie” . . . educated in many countries . . . soft-spoken. Student Council 4. Vice President 4; Owl Staff 3, 4; Latin Club 2; Athletic Council 3, 4; Class Basketball 3, 4; Asst. Basketball Mgr. 3, 4. RICHARD WALLACE ACKER Blond with pleasant looks . . . “Dick” ... the silent milkman . . . hidden humor ... the roaring black Ford. Class Basketball 1, 2, 3; Baseball 2. EDWARD JOHN ADAM Willing and able worker . . . active sports’ participant . . . dark good looks . . . friendly and smiling . . . “Ed”. Latin Club 2; Special Chorus 4; Class Basketball 1, 2; V. Basketball 3, 4; V. Baseball 1, 2, 3, 4; V. Soccer 1, 2, 3, 4. MARTHA EDITH ARNOLD Our senior addition, a pleasant surprise . . . tall, dark, and winsome ... an asset to our Drama Club . . . welcomed by the flood. National Honor Society 4; Bowling Club 4; Drama Club 4; Brown and Gold 4. LOIS MABEL ATWOOD 4-H enthusiast ... a skilled contributor to our basketball team . . . super seamstress . . . pale blonde attractiveness. National Honor Society 3, 4; Girls’ Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4; Latin Club 1, 2. ANTOINETTE ELIZABETH BARRON A “Hi” for everyone . . . dark and tiny . . . always a pleasing appearance . . . Fuller’s capable clerk. Bowling Club 1, F.H.A. 1, 2; Owl Staff 4; Bibliosophs Treasurer 3, 4; Glee Club 1, 2; Special Chorus 4; Class Basketball 1. LEE GIRARD BRADSHAW Dynamic drummer . . . our babyfaced “Killer” . . . always well-dressed . . . keen sense of humor . . . class poet. National Honor Society 3, 4; Owl Staff 4; Latin Club 2; Drama Club 3, 4; Glee Club 1; Special Chorus 4; Dance Band 1, 2, 3, 4; J.V. Basketball 1, 2; V. Basketball 3. KAY ELAINE BRAMMER Quiet? Not at all . . . apt at all sports . . . neat and attractive . . . gay personality, fun to have around. National Honor Society 3, 4; FREDERICK ALFRED BULLOCK All those freckles! . . . sharp at spelling . . . lean and lanky . . . his common sense will always be an asset . . . “Fred”. Class Basketball 1, 2. JUDITH GAIL CALKINS Keeps our cheerleading peppy . . . date deluxe . . . has fun no matter what she does . . . shorthand whiz . . . “Judy”. National Honor Society 3, 4, Secretary 4; Drama Club Treasurer 3. 4; Bowling Club 1, 2, Vice-President 3, President 4; Owl Staff Typing Editor 4; Brown and Gold 4; Cheerleading 1, 2, 3, 4, Co-Capt. 3, Capt. 4; Glee Club 1. 2; Special Chorus 4; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4. ELIZABETH DOROTHY CAMPBELL Sharp-shooting forward . . . always clowning, always laughing . . curly locks . . . enviable figure and a walk all her own . . . “Bette”. Drama Club 2. 3. 4; Bowling Club 1, 2. 3, 4; Brown and Gold 4; Thomascope 2; Special Chorus 4; J.V. Basketball 2; V. Basketball 3, 4; Class Basketball 1. MARGARET MARY EBNER “Marge” . . . Lovely dark hair and fair skin . . . speedy guard . . . shy smile, friendly ways . . . classy clarinet. National Honor Society 3, 4; La in Club Secretary 2; Student Council Vice-President 3; Drama Club 4; Bowling Club 1, 2, 3, 4; Orchestra 1, 2; Glee Club 1. 2; Special Chorus 3, 4; V. Basketball 1. 2, 3. 4. DONALD JOHN EREMINAS “Don” . . . Height topped with dark wavy hair . . . faithful dance patron ... always helpful . . . beats the big bass drum. Latin Club 2; Glee Club 1, 2; Special Chorus 4; Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Orchestra 1, 2. SYLVIA LORRAINE FARRELL Flaming red hair . . . prize-winning artist . . . friendly, smiling, and always ready to lend a hand . . . holder of two jobs. National Honor Society 3. 4; F.H.A. 3; Owl Staff 1. 2; Glee Club 1, 2; Special Chorus 4; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3. WILLIAM RICHARD FOLEY Quiet till you know him . . . drives his own “car” . . . “Bill” . . . chauffeurs soda . . . forever chewing gum. ROBERT HENRY FOX Master Craftsman . . . Red hair and matching freckles . . . seems shy but what a surprise . . . hunting and fishing man . . . “Bob”. Band 1. 2, 3; Special Chorus 4; J.V. Basketball 1, 2; V. Baseball 1, 2, 3, 4; Class Basketball 3, 4. FRANCIS DOMENIC FRANZOSO Apt at parking the family Cadillac . . . talkative barber . . . half-mile champ . . . “Fran” . . . lots of laughs. Special Chorus 4; Track 1, 2, 3. JOHN STUART FRASER “Jack” . . . Fearless driver . . . the long, loud trumpet . . . Navy looms in his future . . . works for class functions. Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Dance Band 1, 2, 3; Orchestra 1, 2; Special Chorus 4; Owl Staff 2; Track 1, 2, 3; V. Soccer 1, 2, 3; J.V. Basketball 1, 2, 3. LINDA LOUISE HAAS Going back to kindergarten . . . enthusiastic manner . . . dark hair and flashing smile . . . the light blue Pontiac. National Honor Society 3, 4; Latin Club 2; Drama Club 4; Bowling Club 4; Special Chorus 3, 4; Class Basketball L 2, 3, 4. ELIZABETH MARION HELLERICH Quiet but decisive ways . . . active 4-H-er . . . “Liz” . . . small and slim . . . looks forward to career as an extension worker. Owl Staff 1, 2; Drama Club 4; Special Chorus 3, 4; Class Basketball 3, 4. MARLENE JACOUELINE ILNICKY Quick and lively cheerleader . . . slender . . . always busy, always happy . . . peppery and poised. Owl Staff 4; Drama Club 2; Glee Club 1, 2; Bowling Club 3; Cheerleading 4; Class Basketball 3, 4. PHYLLIS EDNA JENSEN Quiet but gay . . . another high school employee of the Thomaston Savings . . . sylphlike . . . amiable. Special Chorus 4. ELIZABETH JEAN JUDD Good ideas . . . prominent member of the Brown and Gold ... a real go-getter . . . “Liz” . . . congenial. F.H.A. 2; Owl Staff 3; Drama Club 4; Bowling Club 2, 3; Brown and Gold 4; Biblio-sophs 3, 4. ANN ELIZABETH KENNEDY First Senior diamond . . . well-known laugh . . . sharp basketball guard . . . speaks up for her rights. Glee Club 1, 2; Bowling Club 1, 2, 3; Thomascope 3; Brown and Gold 4; F.H.A. 1, 2, 3, State Officer 3; J.V. Basketball 1; Varsity Basketball 2, 3, 4. WINIFRED ANN KOBYRN “Winnie” . . . Easy going conversation . . . long-time cheerleader . . . enough ambition for two jobs . . . popular date. Bowling Club 1, 2. 3, 4; Glee Club 1, 2; Latin Club 2; Owl Staff 1; Athletic Council 4; Class Basketball 1, 2. 3, 4; Cheerleading 1, 2, 3, 4. JACKLYN LASER Music lover and expert, too . . . clothes galore . . . Jacky ... a smile for all . . . petite and pretty. Latin Club, Treasurer 2; Band 1, 2, 3, 4, Secretary 2, 3; Dance Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Orchestra 1, 2, 4; Special Chorus 3, 4; Glee Club 1. 2; Drama Club 4; Bowling Club 2; J.V. Basketball 1; Class Basketball 2, 3, 4. SANDRA ANN MARIANI Our smallest cheerleader . . . “Sandy” . . . curly black hair . . . from nurse’s aid to student nurse . . . pleasing soprano voice. Latin Club 2; Special Chorus 1, 2, 3, 4; Glee Club 1, 2; Cheerleading 1, 2, 3, 4; Class Basketball 1. THEODORE LLOYD MITCHELL “Ted . . . Master at Math . . . tall, blond, and quiet . . . a New York accent . . . they call him “Tex . Latin Club 2; Owl Staff 4; J.V. Basketball 1. ROBERT WILLIAM MONROE Sensational Sax . . . loads of friends . . . Bob . . . Bill Haley’s next Comet . . . experienced Thomaston Savings employee. National Honor Society 3. 4. Vice-President 4; Latin Club 2; Glee Club 1; Special Chorus 4; Dance Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Orchestra 1, 2; Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4; Soccer 2. JOHN JACOB MUELLER Max . . . our own private genius . . . devilish humor . . . accordion artist . . . million dollars—“Here I come! Honor Society 3, 4; Latin Club 2, President; Owl Staff 1. 2, 3, 4, Literary Editor 4; Band 4; Special Chorus 4; Glee Club 1, 2. ALBERT FREDERICK NELSON Fabulous oil man ... his laugh makes the rest of us laugh . . . expert at driving a pick-up truck . . . hilarious manner . . . “Al . Class Basketball 3, 4. GWENDOLYN ANN NELSON “Gwen . . . her blonde hair a real crowning glory . . . bowling pins, beware . . . pleasant disposition . . . makes her new classmates feel welcome. Glee Club 1, 2; Bowling Club L 2, 3, 4. JUDITH GALE ODELL Good fun and hot temper . . . Judy . . . sharp-witted . . . straight-forward and amicable . . . always neatly dressed. F.H.A. 1; Drama Club 2; Bowling Club 1, 2; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4. DIANE GENEVIEVE PERBECK Oh! Those clothes ... always a lady-like manner . . . active and attractive . . . natural flair for sports. F.H.A. 2, 3, Vice-President and President 2; Thomascope 1; Special Chorus 4; Glee Club 1, 2; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3. NANCY ELLEN POTTER Known for giggling . . . goes all out for whatever she does . . . cordial politeness . . . baby-sitting, her specialty. F.H.A. 3; Glee Club 1, 2; Brown and Gold 4. BERNICE MARY PSZKOSKI “Bernie” . . . Throws a slow and accurate bowling ball . . . kind, generous, and fun-loving . . . old hand at basketball managing . . . liked by all. National Honor Society 3, 4; Owl Staff 1, 2, 3, 4; Latin Club 2; Glee Club 1, 2; Special Chorus 4; Bowling Club 1, 2, 3, 4, Secretary 3, 4; Athletic Council 1, 2, 3, 4, Secretary 3, 4; Drama Club 4, Secretary 4; Girls’ Basketball Manager 1, 2, 3, 4; Class Basketball 1, 2. JUDITH ANN PTACHCINSKI Serious and conscientious, also fond of fun . . . Drama Club favorite . . . works hard and alwavs does well . . . clarinet whiz . . . “Judy”. Drama Club 3, 4, President 4; National Honor Society 3, 4; Latin Club 2; Bowling Club 4; Glee Club 1, 2; Special Chorus 3, 4, Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4. DONNA LOU REEVES Equanimity at its best . . . at'the head of the class when it comes to driving ... individualist . . . tremendous trumpet . . . admired by many. National Honor Society 3, 4; Owl Staff 3, 4; Laurel Girls’ State ’55; Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Orchestra 1, 2; Special Chorus 3, 4; Glee Club 1, 2; Latin Club 2; Bowling Club 1, 2, 3, 4; Drama Club 4; J.V. Basketball 1; Varsity Basketball DAVID JOHN RENGER “Dave” . . . Flirtatious and talkative . . . artist of hyperbole . . . pin-ball machine addict . . . commercial baker. Baseball 2; Class Basketball 2, 3, 4. ELLEN MAE SANFORD Tall and spritely brunette . . . venturesome . . . readily accepts responsibility . . . active Bibliosoph. F.H.A. 1, 2, 3, 4, Treasurer 3, 4; Thomascope 1; Biblio-sophs 3, 4; Bowling Club 4; Glee Club 1, 2; Special Chorus 4 Orchestra 1; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3. GAIL ANN SANFORD Thoughtful and considerate . . . leading F.H.A. member . . . refined manner . . . the kind of person everybody likes to be with. F.H.A. 1, 2, 3, 4, Vice-President 3, President 4; Biblio-sophs 3, 4, President 4; Bowling Club 4; Latin Club 1; Thomascope 1; Special Chorus 3, 4; Glee Club 1, 2. 2, 3. JEAN EVELYN SCHINZEL The pleasing blush . . . participator in many church affairs . . . small and pert . . . clever at sewing. F.H.A. 1, 2, 3, 4, Secretary 3, Vice-President 4; Drama Club 3, 4; Bibliosonhs 3, 4; Latin Club 2; Class Basketball 1, 2. GERTRUDE MARY SCHNEIDER Magic fingers at the grand piano . . . she’s seen Europe . . . sincere . . . strong-willed in a quiet way . . . “Gert”. National Honor Society 3, 4; Latin Club 2; Bowling Club 2, 4: Special Chorus 1, 2, 3, 4; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3. 4. THOMAS JOSEPH SHOLTIS “Tom” . . . Atlas the Second . . . aqua convertible all his own . . . jokester ... a real dreamboat. Vice - President 2; Athletic Council 2; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3. 4; V. Soccer 1, 2, 3, 4; V. Baseball 1, 2; Track 3, 4; V. Basketball 2. WILLIAM CHARLES SOFIELD Innumerable freckles . . . “Bill” . . . constantly “repining” . . . active in school sports ... the flippant one. Glee Club 1, 2; V. Soccer 1, 2, 3, 4; V. Baseball 1, 3, 4; J.V. Basketball 1, 2; V. Basketball 3, 4. MARTIN STEVEN SPECK Quiet ways and subtle humor . . . knack for working with his hands . . . “Marty” . . . prize winning 4-H-er . . . good-natured. Band 1, 2, 3, 4. PENELOPE THOMAS Exceptional artist . . . “Penny” . . . cute as can be . . . owns the tiny blue Model A Convertible . . . talkative and vivacious . . . original ideas. Owl Staff 1, 2; Drama Club 1, 2, 3, 4; Latin Club 1, 2; Special Chorus 3, 4; Band 1; Class Basketball 1. JOEL KENNETH WILLIAMS Brand new class member . . . sports conscious . . . known for his interest in chemistry and work in the lab . . . delightful drawl. Special Chorus 4; Baseball 4. ELIZABETH THERESA WOJCIECHOWSKI Our littlest classmate . . . generous and genial . . . top-notch bowler . . . tiny but dynamic . . . “Betty”. F.H.A. 2; Bowling Club 3, 4; Brown and Gold 4; Class Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4. First row: I. to r. Mr. Wyllie, Adviser: Jean Schinzel, Kay Brammer, Donald Kiely. Beatrice Bernatchez, Michael Savage, Joan Ciak, George Kindness, Kate Woodbridge. Sandra Mariani, Joel Williams, Miss Mc-Crillis, Adviser. Second row: I. to r. John Fraser, Elizabeth Hcllerich, Martha Arnold, Robert Monroe, Gwendolyn Nelson, Elizabeth Wojcicchowski, Phyllis Jensen, Robert Fox, Ann Kennedy, Diane Perbeck, Ellen Sanford, Albert Nelson. Third row: I. to r. Margaret Ebner, Bernice Pszkoski, David Renger, Winifred Kobryn, Judith Odell, John Mueller, Judith Calkins. Marlene Ilnicky, Edward Adam, Nancy Potter, Elizabeth Judd, Antoinette Barron. Fourth row: I. to r. William Sofield, Gertrude Schneider, Jacklyn Laser. Lee Bradshaw, Judith Ptach-cinski, Donna Reeves, Martin Speck, Linda Haas, Lois Atwood, Francis Franzoso. Gail Sanford, Sylvia Farrell. Fifth row: I. to r. Thomas Sholtis. Theodore Mitchell, Elizabeth Campbell, Penelope Thomas, Donald Ereminas, Frederick Bullock, William Foley. Senior Class History In approaching the end of our school days, an important phase of our lives, we can look back with pride and a sense of achievement on this and our previous years in Thomaston High School. After two vague, hectic years in junior high school, our class came into its own by instituting the practice of informal dances. Another successful Valentine’s dance, “Cupid’s Holiday,” in our sophomore year firmly established the custom of underclass-sponsored dances. In our Freshmen year, we caused a stir of excitement by walking off with the coveted Field Day trophy. As juniors we received our class rings, the symbol of our unity. Later in that year we were responsible for the most beautiful and most delightful prom the school has yet seen. The theme, “Apple Blossom Time,” was high-lighted by an entirely different arrangement of decorations; it boasted a fountain which actually spouted water. A highly successful auction started our senior activities. The most popular item, a three-weeks’ old puppy, stimulated bidding to a high point and many items were bidden for with enthusiasm, so that we ended our auction with all items sold. In November we experienced our first senior privilege when we were excused a day from school to have our senior pictures taken. Our Christmas Ball, “Silver Bells,” followed the tradition of all our successful dances. Our school days will be terminated by the most important activity of all — graduation. Though some of our original members will not be with us at graduation, we have remained the same size because those leaving have been replaced by incoming members. We have always had the pleasure of seeing the members of our class prominent in the school’s activities. Our musicians have been outstanding; the National Honor Society welcomed many of our members; and in many sports and clubs our classmates have been active leaders and participants. Perhaps one particular thing has been the cause of our success as a class — unity. Our class has always worked well together. The enjoyments we have shared and the knowledge we have gained from this unity we shall always remember. President’s Message Our graduation in June will bring to a close the only formal education which some of us will have. Others will go on to higher learning, but what we have obtained in the past years is a solid foundation on which to build a life of prosperous and intelligent citizenship. We have tried to operate with unity in all phases of school life: academic, social, cultural, and athletic. We hope our activities have contributed not only to our personal growth, but also to the growth of our school. Both officially and personally I would like to thank all parents, teachers, administrators and fellow students who recognized our talents, encouraged us to develop them, and rewarded us for our accomplishments. Michael Savage President, Class of 1956 Senior Class Meeting or “Problems in Democracy U VDEECLA55MEN First row: I. to r. Mr. Murphy, Adviser; Florence Bellmay, Donald Fredlund. Patricia Fosco, Nancy Bothroyd, Kenneth Fox, Brenda Bothroyd, Mildred Atwood. Paul Farrell, Harriet Gangloff, Myra Gillman. Second row: Judith Grano. Rickard Darm, Linda Brcdice, Barbara Curtiss, Henry Gancos, Catherine Howard. Dorothea Harris, Lawrence Duffany, Jacqueline Brophy. Third row: Richard Berg, Rebecca Chipman, Robert Armstrong, Lynne Bradshaw, James DeBisschop. Mrs. Platt, Adviser. JUNIOR CLASS First row: 1. to r. Mr. Murphy. Adviser; Edith Knapp. William Wood, Dorothy Rogo-zinski, John Sanderson, Judith Mansfield, Thelma Kramer, Herbert Koenigsbauer, Brenda Klocker. Corla Renger. Gerald Szoka. Mrs. Platt. Adviser. Second row: I. to r. Linda Roesing. Robert Roy, Susan Schmelter, Fred Lawson. Carol Peck, Jane Pecco. Peter Rayder, Mary Kuibeda. Patricia Konitski, Joseph Valaitis, Helen Mychniow. Third row: I. to r. Howard Knox, Joy Schlicher. Mary Jane McQuarrie, Noel Smith, Barbara Smith, Robert White, Susan Nase, George Parson, Jean Smith, Theodore Ryan. JUNIOR CLASS HISTORY Now that we are Upperclassmen, we think back and remember our past years in Thomaston High. In seventh and eighth grades we were very much confused and most of our time was spent in adjusting to life in the high school. As freshmen the privileges of high school students were open to us at last. Class members participated in sports and various other school activities. That year, too, we gave a very successful dance which was called “April in Paris.” During the sophomore year we elected class officers and were once again active in athletics and other school organizations. Our dance, “Over the Rainbow,” met with everyone’s approval. Now that we are juniors, we have found the year was a very important and busy one. In the fall we gave a successful dance. Then, too, we had many class meetings discussing the all-important question of class rings. On the day the seniors were measured for their caps and gowns, we also contributed to the disruption of classes by receiving our class rings. In May we produced our biggest and best dance of all—the Junior Prom. This year we elected Herbert Koenigsbauer, President; James DeBisshop, Vice-President; Susan Schmelter, Secretary; Carol Peck, Treasurer; with Peter Rayder and Linda Roesing, Student Council Representatives. Work! Work! Work! 24 hours a day Some are just too short! Lost! One engine! First row: 1. to r. Mr. Hendrickson, Adviser; Joanne Gotsel, Edward Campbell, Carol Eggleston, Peter Knightly. Mary Ann Dailey, Thomas Johnson. Joan Bartlett. Thomas Bigham. Patricia Fitzgerald. Miss Goodwin, Adviser. Second row: Kenneth Koval, Carol Barniak, Otto Dreger, Ann Gallup. Peter Farrell, Dorothy Bergman. David Fenwick, Sylvia Grohoski, Ann Fitzgerald. Third row: Virginia Krayeski. Robert Brink, Ruth Fosco, George Griffin. Linda Devino, Bruce Brink, Barbara Callahan, Donald Brooks, John Knox. SOPHOMORE CLASS First row: 1. to r. Mr. Hendrickson. Adviser; Barbara Stengel, Robert Smail, Dolores Ryan. Walter Swift, Shirley Moskaluk, Edward Olcese, Marsha Sangster, Chauncey O’Connell, Miss Goodwin, Adviser. Second row: 1. to r. Barbara Parker. Barbara Picco, Barbara Vanasse, George Ruggles, Karen Wheeler, Patricia MacDonald, Donald Sholtis, Elsa Thulin, Judith Thomson, Joyce Brammer. Third row: I. to r. Lawrence Wenzeloff, Elizabeth Rowley, Bruce Monahan, Marcia White, Ronald Rogozinski, Jacqueline Steiner, Louis Stevens, Virginia Welton. Judith White, Peter Thulin. SOPHOMORE CLASS HISTORY ■ Here we are—the Sophomore Class of Thomaston High School! After struggling through two “fun-loving” years as junior high students and one year as freshmen, we have ahead of us two promising years in school. We began our freshman year by electing Walter Swift class president. That year we had our first taste of Latin, geometry, and bookkeeping. As freshmen we became the youngest school group to go on a trip—New York was our destination. We toured the U. N. Building and enjoyed the Easter show at Radio City. In the spring we held a very successful dance called “Spring Fever.” Several food Sales and parties also highlighted the year. On September 23, 1955, the sophomore class held its first class meeting, during which we elected Edward Olcese as President, John Knox as Vice-President, Marsha Sangster as Secretary, and Elsa Thulin as Treasurer. Joyce Brammer and Walter Swift represented us on the Student Council. We held a going-away party for Butch Wenzloff, who moved to Southington, and put on an amusing and successful “Sadie Hawkins Day” dance. Three new members were added to our class this year: Ann Gallup and Rita and Pat Fitzgerald. We are glad to welcome them to the class of ’58. SEEN AT T.H.S. Enthusiasm personified Dressing the set Pepsodent or Gleem? Knowledge is golden First row: I. to r. Karen Simpson. David Wilson. Rita Weingart, Terrence Sanderson, Valery Mitchell. John Taylor. Diane Schmelter, Seth Thomas. Florence Roman. Barbara Monroe. Mr. Schmidt. Adviser. Second row: I. to r. Miss Lynch. Adviser; Sylvia Nilson, Donald Potter, Rachel Raider. Arthur Roy, Virginia Peck, Eugene Ptachinski, Ann Osterman. William Ryan, Carol Tindell. Third row: I. to r. Paul Marcil. Sylvia Stuart. Lynda Pierpont. Lorraine Stacheleck. Laraine Szymanski, Bonnie Voghel. Joyce Pecco. Linda Serduck. Jane Woodbridge. Robert Monroe. Fourth row: 1. to r. Patricia Woznikaitis, Edward Waters, Henry Wolfe. Roger Pcrrault, Sandra Williams. FRESHMAN CLASS First row: I. to r. Regina Frechette. Linda Bothroyd. Dennis Drzwecki, Patricia Darm, Thomas Duffany, Priscilla Adam. Paul Gustafson, Patricia Handrinos, Paul Linsley. Mary Lou Handrinos. Mr. Schmidt. Adviser. Second row: I. to r. Miss Lynch. Adviser; Conrad Johnson. Margaret Farrell, Richard Kcogcl. Gay Baldwin, Carl Acker, Sandra Didsbury. William Caron. Marilyn Fenn. Third row: 1. to r. Kirk Kocnigsbauer. Dianne Benson. John Brophy. Carol Brower, Harold Dayton. Arlene Atherton. Leon Babb, Lcola Bullock. Harold Dick, Carole Labatt. Fourth row: 1. to r. Helen Lytle. Elizabeth Langevin. Dean Carlson, Michael Bruscino, Donna Hannon. FRESHMAN CLASS HISTORY After spending two years in Junior High School the class of 1959 has finally assumed the responsibilities of high school students. As eighth graders, we entered into school activities by selling the largest number of athletic card party tickets and by winning the class basketball tournament. During the first class meeting of our freshman year, we elected as officers, William Ryan, President; Dianne Benson, Vice-President; Rachel Raider, Secretary; Kirk Koenigsbauer, Treasurer; and Seth Thomas, Student Council Representative. That year our first dance, “The Bobby Sox Hop,” was a great success. First row: 1. to r. Mrs. Duntcrman, Adviser; Richard Barr. Lucinda Catlin. Terrence Doyle, Joanne Bogus. Benedict Ebner, Lois Dupar, Stuart Fraser, Linda Grant. Alfred Dreger. Carol Gunderson, Peter Brophy, Irene Ford. Mr. Domonell, Adviser. Second row: 1. to r. Carolyn Besky, Dennis Fischer. Patricia Koczwara, Raymond GanglofF, Joan Batick. Shirley Handle. Katherine Kelly, Joanne Gauthier. Robert Atherton. Mary Ann Gesmondi. Beverly Beardslec, Benedict Franzoso. Mr. Pasquariello, Adviser. Third row; I. to r. Dorothy Brammer, Elizabeth Berg, Thomas Jordan. Peggy Duffany. Susan Hellerich. Louis Fluet. Carol Brida. Kathleen Fargo. George Cook. Judith Blackmcr. Peter Conrad, Joanne Donovan. Fourth row: I. to r. William Hart, Lcola Bullock, Martin Duffany, Lucinda Bailey, Shirley Knox, Sumner Adams, Susan Ford. Harrow Kindness, Helen Huribert, William Driscoll, Helen Handle. Fifth row: 1. to r. Ronald Knox, Richard Fischer, Layton Harriman. EIGHTH GRADE First row: I. to r. Mrs. Dunterman. Adviser: Adolph Wojciechowski. Elizabeth Lincoln, Walter Speck. Marsha Wright. Robert McDonald. Penelope Roesing. John Ryan, Bonnie Nase. Edward Smith. Carole Majewski. Rebecca McKeag. Mr. Domonell. Adviser. Second row: I. to r. Gertrude Lincoln, John Mitchell. Diane Olcese, Alexander Osowiecki. Sandra O’Connell, Steve Tarini, Barbara Sgambato. Gary Sanford. Barbara Sanzcri, Richard Matte-son, Rosemarie Sgambato, Marianne Savage. Mr. Pasquariello. Adviser. Third row: 1. to r. Arnold Perrin, Carol Van Burcn, Robert Sanford, Mary Elizabeth Post. Peter Rocsing, Sandra Totten. Joel Smail. Barbara Puzacke. Sandra Vanasse, Peggy Ann Marquis. Gloria Pecco, Joyce Monroe. Fourth row: 1. to r. Robert Peck, Bruce Osterman, Randy Seidler, Martin Thulin. First row: I. to r. Mrs. Barker. Adviser; Cynthia Mathews. Kirk Sanford. Thomas Smail, Marilee Wellersdick, Robert Morse, Adrianne Vezzani, John Sangster, Miss Gangloff. Adviser. Second row: I. to r. Kurt Selchow, Carol Trosky, Richard Mathews, Judith Ryan, Richard Synott. Margaret Morrison, Charles Philbrook, Rosemary Smith, Robert Young, Joan Porch, Mr. Holbrook. Adviser. Third row: 1. to r. James Sanderson. Joan Paczkowski. Paul Tarini, Sharon Pecco. Fred Sutcliffe, Clare Parker, Clifford Wheeler, Rosemary Rosko, Ronald Kennedy, James O’Brien. Fourth row: 1. to r. Glen Packer, Edmond Monroe, Vincent Rossi. Thomas Waters, Louis Warner, Paul Rogozinski, James White, Terrence Simpson. Fifth row: I. to r. Robert Suckley, Fred White. Bruce Nelson. SEVENTH GRADE First row: I. to r. Mrs. Barker, Adviser; William Kelley, Alice Grano, Walter Carrington, Carol Grohoski. Richard Kliminoski, Donna Hart, James Handle. Roseann Knox. Terrence Farrell, Mary Callahan. Ronald Batick, Sandra Jensen, Steven Krenisky, Lucy Fluet. Miss Gangloff, Adviser. Second row: 1. to r. Karen Kobryn, Russell Atwood. Evelyn Batchelder, Susan Brooks, Christine Andrade, Frances Dayton. Richard Griffin, Joan Gallagher, Barry Johnston. Sherry Bramhall, Robert Bothroyd, Maureen Gleeson, Scott Bothroyd, Judith Fox, Mr. Holbrook. Adviser. Third row: I. to r. Margaret Homan, Audrey Fargo. Ben Bereza, John Benson, Carol Batick, Judith Duncan. Charles Fray, Anne Knox. Richard Cable, Linda Knapp. Robert Kedley. Barbara Acker. Richard Johnson. Ellen Duffany. Fourth row: 1. to r. Hannah Beecher. Richard Cop. Mary Lou Bowkett, John Farrell, Sharon Kane. Raymond Lavoie. Georgine Bruscino. William Arlafski, Gail Eggleston, Bruce Anderson, Cecelia Caron, Kenneth Jenner. Russell Finkle. Fifth row: 1. to r. Jeanne Barnes, Henry Curtiss, June Campbell, George Little, Susan Blackmer, Thomas Dailey. Why Johnny Can Read!! Yes, Mr. Holbrook true! It is round! Where’s the rest of the crew? ? or hamburgers ? ACTIVITIES OWL STAFF First row: I. to r. Robert Roy, John Mueller, Thelma Kramer, Lynne Bradshaw, Jacqueline Brophy, John Taylor, Eugene Ptachcinski, Diane Schmelter, Valery Mitchell, Conrad Johnson. Second row: 1. to r. Lee Bradshaw. Judy Calkins, Kate Woodbridge, Bernice Pszkoski, Donna Reeves, Antoinette Barron, Joan Ciak, Marlene Ilnicky, Mary Jane McQuarrie, Myra Gillman, Theodore Mitchell. Third row: 1. to r. Barbara Curtiss, l.inda Bredice. Jacqueline Steiner. Carol Barniak. Marsha Sangster, Mary Ann Dailey, Joy Schlicher. Linda Grant, Carol Gunderson. Susan Nase, Marcia White. Fourth row: I. to r. Howard Knox, Linda Roesing, Brenda Klocker. Gerald Szoka, Thomas Bigham. John Mitchell, Carol Eggleston, Judith Thomson. Rebecca Chipman, Thomas Duffany. THE A lot of work and time has gone into what is now the 1956 Owl. The work to prepare the Owl was done by committees, each committee dealing with a different aspect of the content. The heads of the committees were the editors of the Owl. They met from time to time with Linda Roesing, editor-in-chief, to coordinate the work of their staffs. The literary staff, with John Mueller as editor, prepared all the written material in the Owl. In the fall they worked on the seniors and came up with a compact, but revealing, write-up for each one. They also wrote the dedication. Since then they have written reports on all the school organizations and all the sports. To decipher the write-ups of the literary staff and prepare the written work for publication is the work of the typing staff with Judith Calkins as editor. The art staff and editor, Thelma Kramer, drew the division pages and the sketches which appear on most of the pages. They worked hard to bring in the theme and make it so much a part of the Owl. The candids, as well as some group pictures, were the work of the photography staff, headed by Bob Roy and Jerry Szoka. Compiling the work of the various staffs, arranging page order and placement of pictures and articles on the pages, and checking to see that the staffs are keeping up to date in their jobs, is the extensive work of the editor-in-chief, Linda Roesing. Where does the money come from which finances the work done by the staffs and the publication? An able business staff headed by Joy Schlicher sold candy at home basketball games and every day after school, gave dances to raise money, and worked on a subscription campaign. Unexpected hidden talent of many high school boys and girls was brought to light with a successful Variety Show, sponsored by the Owl and ably directed by Mrs. Dunterman. The Owl is fortunate to have as its sponsors Miss Ernestine McCrillis, Mrs. Georgia Dunterman, Mrs. Doris Waters, and Mr. William Domonell. OWL EDITORS THE BIG THREE First row: 1. to r. Linda Roesing, Thelma Kramer, Judith Calkins, Joy Schlicher. Second row: John Mueller, Robert Roy, Gerald Szoka. 32 HONOR SOCIETY First row: I. to r. John Mueller, Judith Calkins, Secretary; Donald Kiely, President; Robert Monroe, Vice-President; Judith Ptachcinski, Program Chairman; Lee Bradshaw. Second row: 1. to r. Miss McCrillis, Sponsor; Sylvia Farrell, I.inda Haas, Margaret Ebner, Beatrice Bernatchez, Donna Reeves, Martha Arnold, Gertrude Schneider, Kay Brammer, Lois Atwood, Refreshment Chairman; Bernice Pszkoski, Mrs. Platt, Adviser. HONOR SOCIETY The members of the Thomaston Chapter of the National Honor Society have, as have the members of this Society all over the country, attained their position through hard work and success in the fields of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. This year the Society started with the election of their officers. Donald Kiely was chosen President; Robert Monroe, Vice-President; and Judith Calkins, Secretary. Trying something new, the Society sponsored a pep-rally dance, designed to arouse school spirit. It proved more than satisfactory. Also, the members of the Society did their best to promote school spirit and better teacher-pupil relationship with committees, questionnaires, and reports. The programs at the monthly meetings were varied and interesting. In the fall, Mrs. Daniel Samson took the group with her through color slides and a talk to France, Belgium, and Italy. Mr. George Woodbridge, formerly connected with the State Department, related some of his interesting experiences. Miss Beatrice Kasznay, former exchange student, spoke and showed slides of her trip through some of the European countries. The activities of the year were climaxed by the annual induction ceremony, in which new members were brought into the Society and an inspiring talk was heard by Attorney Luke Martin. As always, it was impressive and characteristic of the true aims of the National Honor Society. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY First row: 1. to r. Elizabeth Hcllcrich. Antoinette Barron. Helen Mychniow, Jean Schinzel. Brenda Klocker, Joan Ciak, Penelope Thomas. Kate Woodbridge, Mary Jane McQuarrie. Second row: I. to r. Mr. Ebner. Principal; Herbert Koenigsbauer. Mildred Atwood. Jacklyn Laser. Linda Roesing, Joy Schlichcr, Carol Peck, Barbara Curtiss, Linda Bredice, Frances Labatt, George Kindness, Theodore Mitchell. 33 STUDENT COUNCIL First row: I. to r. Seth Thomas, Margaret Morrison, Kate Woodbridge. Mr. Schmidt, Adviser; Linda Roesing, Donald Kiely. Second row: I. to r. Walter Swift, Joyce Bram-mer, Peter Rayder, Peter Conrad. STUDENT COUNCIL Annually each class at Thomaston High School elects representatives to the Student Council. Through these representatives the council serves as an advisory and governing body which deals with student problems. In cooperation with the National Honor Society, the Student Council investigated student morale and school spirit this year. By means of questionnaires and open forum assemblies both of these organizations brought the feeling and attitude of the students to the attention of the entire school. As a part of this program a suggestion box was started for both faculty and student use. Another worth-while project inaugurated by the group this year was a Career Day which proved to be an outstanding success. Regular locker inspection was held by the Student Council and a set of rules was set up regarding student dress at the school dances. Each Monday during the school year the Student Council worked on a revision of its constitution. This was completed and went into effect in the spring. Officers of the Student Council are: President, Donald Kiely; Secretary, Linda Roesing; Treasurer, Peter Rayder; Adviser, Mr. Schmidt. 34 ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION I. to r. Herbert Koenigsbauer, Dorothea Harris, Mr. Fagerquist and Miss Lynch, Co-chairmen; Kate Woodbridge, Bernice Pszkowski, Secretary; Seth Thomas. ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION To sponsor and pay for the activities of the school sports is the main purpose of the Athletic Association. The annual A.A. card party is the main source of funds for this organization. Held each year in November, the card party attracts townspeople of all ages. Tickets are sold by the students of THS and the class selling the most tickets receives the card party trophy. The town merchants donate merchandise for door prizes, or funds for the A.A. treasury. This year the card party was more than moderately successful, with a nearly record-breaking number of tickets being sold. During the year the Athletic Association holds meetings whenever problems or questions concerning athletics arise. The association appropriates money for athletic purposes and does its best to decide these problems and questions. The members are three students chosen from the Student Council, the managers of the teams in season, and the boys’ and girls’ coaches, as well as the principal. Officers are Miss Lynch and Mr. Fagerquist, co-chairmen; Mr. Ebner, treasurer; and Bernice Pszkoski, secretary. 35 DRAMA CLUB First row: 1. to r. Jacqueline Brophy, Barbara Curtiss, Dorothea Harris. Linda Bredice, Martha Arnold. Judith Calkins. Bernice Pszkoski, Mr. Hendrickson, Adviser; Judith Ptach-cinski. George Kindness, Elizabeth Campbell, Lynne Bradshaw. Brenda Klockcr. Second row: I. to r. Kirk Koenigsbauer, Marcia White, Marsha Sangster, Mary Ann Dailey, Diane Schmel-ter, Dorothy Rogozinski, Catherine Howard, Margaret Ebner, Donna Reeves. Linda Haas, Howard Knox, Lee Bradshaw. Third row: 1. to r. Eugene Ptachcinski, Jacklyn Laser, Penelope Thomas, Helen Lytle, Thelma Kramer. Rebecca Chipman, Elizabeth Hellerich, Carol Labatt, Donald Brooks. Walter Swift. Fourth row: I. to r. John Taylor, Paul Fenwick, Marlene Ilnicky, Joan Ciak, Elizabeth Judd, Joanne Donovan, Michael Bruscino, Terrence Sanderson. DRAMA Behind the scenes Under the direction of Mr. Harold Hendrickson is one of the hardest working and most outstanding school organizations—the Drama Club. This year it opened the season with Night Must Fall, its first mystery play. This psychological mystery was enthusiastically received by a large and appreciative audience and well deserved the praise it received. Each year the Drama Club prepares a play to be given at one of the Regional Spring Drama Festivals where the highest ranking plays are sent to the State Drama Festival. Last year the Drama Club presented The Adding Machine which returned to Thomaston with a rating of excellent. This year its production was The Doctor in Spite of Himself. Although the Drama Club members work long, hard hours for their success, they also enjoy themselves. They are fortunate to have Mr. Hendrickson’s outstanding ability and personality to guide them. “Night Must Fall” CLUB Paging Perry Mason BIBLIOSOPHS First row: I. to r. Ellen Sanford, Antoinette Barron, Treasurer; Barbara Curtiss, Secretary; Gail Sanford. President; Brenda Klocker, Vice-President; Jean Schinzel, Elizabeth Judd. Second row: I. to r. Marsha Sangster, Joanne Gotsel, Linda Bredice. Mary Jane McQuarrie, Miss Goodwin, Adviser; Catherine Howard, Marcia White, Dorothy Bergman, Edyth Monroe, Mary Ann Dailey. BIBLIOSOPHS Dusting shelves, cataloguing books, collecting fines, are only a few of the many tasks that the most active service group in Thomaston High School, the Bibliosophs, carry out cheerfully and faithfully. Because of the many hours that the girls who make up this club put in, our library is one that we can all be proud of and compares more than favorably with the libraries of most other schools we visit. The time and effort the girls and their adviser exert “pays off” for many of them. Former Bibliosophs have become helpers in the town library or have obtained jobs in college libraries when they have left school. Belonging to this club, however, is by no means all work. Visits to various libraries have been part of the program in the past, and this year a tea and meeting at the Windsor Library was enjoyed by some members with Miss Goodwin. In April the veteran Bibliosophs spent several days in Philadelphia, visiting the University and city libraries and historic places, such as the Liberty Bell and the Betsy Ross House. Number, please. Whistle while you work BAND First row: 1. to r. Margaret Ebner, Judy Ptachcinski. Robert White, Linda Pierpont, Patricia Darm, Jacklyn Laser. Second row: John Ryan. David Wilson. Harrow Kindness, Jacqueline Steiner. John Mueller. Patricia McDonald. Martin Speck, Peter Rayder, Robert Monroe. Arnold Perrin. Rachel Raider. Third row: Carol Barniak, John Mitchell, Faith Knox. George Ruggles. Jack Fraser. Donna Reeves, George Kindness. Conrad Johnson, Robert McDonald. Benedict Ebner, Rickard Darm. Donald Kiely. Back row: Lee Bradshaw, Donald Ereminas, William Woods, Linda Roesing, Lawrence Wenzloflf, Mr. Robinson, Adviser; Mildred Atwood. SPECIAL CHORUS First row: 1. to r. Gail Sanford, Ellen Sanford, Elizabeth Campbell, Judith Calkins, Lee Bradshaw. Robert Monroe. Peter Rayder, Joseph Valaitis. Herbert Koenigsbauer, Susan Schmelter, Mary Jane McQuarrie, Sylvia Farrell, Edyth Monroe. Second row: 1. to r. Phyllis Jensen. Diane Pcrbeck, Joanne Gotsel, Jacklyn Laser, Donald Kiely. Donald Ereminas, Robert Fox, John Mueller. Richard Berg, Sandra Mariani, Penelope Thomas. Elizabeth Hellerich, Donna Reeves. Third row: I. to r. Bernice Pszkowski, Virginia Peck. Patricia 38 Handrinos, Judith Thompson, Francis Franzoso, Edward Adam, Paul Gustafson, Dorothea Bergman, Linda Haas, Judith Ptachcinski, Sylvia Nilson. Fourth row: 1. to r. Margaret Ebner, Linda Roesing, Antoinette Barron, Ann Gallup, Ann Osterman, Gertrude Schneider. ORCHESTRA First row: I. to r. Peter Conrad, Kathryn Kelley, Paul Gustafson, Patricia Darm. Jacqueline Steiner, Patricia McDonald, John Ryan. Second row: I. to r. John Brophy, Karen Kosikowski. Vincent Rossi, Mildred Atwood, Mr. Robinson, Director; Robert McDonald, Benedict Ebner, John Mitchell, Faith Knox. MUSIC CLUBS Three musical organizations thrive at Thomaston High School—the Band, the Glee Club and the Orchestra. The Glee Club participated in the annual Christmas Concert, sang at several school assemblies, and joined the Band in most of its concerts. Two major events highlighted the Band’s school year. In February the winter concert was held in the school auditorium and in the late spring a joint concert was held with Connecticut’s Portland High School. Youngest of the musical organizations is the Orchestra. Composed almost entirely of novices, the Orchestra spent the year sharpening its skills. Thomaston High School’s pride in its music clubs is not outshown by its pride in Mr. George Robinson, whose interest and ability make possible these clubs. Name that tune FUTURE HOMEMAKERS OF AMERICA First row: 1. to r. Dorothy Bergman, Ellen Sanford, Gail Sanford. Jean Schinzel. Diana Benson, Elizabeth Langevin. Second row: 1. to r. Joanne Gotsel, Patricia Handrinos, Carol Brower, Sylvia Nilson, Miss Mahar, Adviser. BROWN AND GOLD First row: 1. to r. Betty Wojciechowski, Frances Labatt, Martha Arnold, Ann Kennedy, Elizabeth Campbell, Carol Peck. Second row: I. to r. Nancy Potter, Elizabeth Hcllcrich, Elizabeth Judd, Herbert Koenigsbauer, Virginia Peck. Helen Mychniow, Lucinda Catlin, Barbara Puzacke. 40 PEN-PAL CLUB First row: I. to r. Joan Gallagher. Sharon Kane. Jerry Mossiman. Kurt Selchow. Joan Paczkowski. Second row: I. to r. Rosemary Smith. Joan Porch. Marilee Wellersdick. Rosemary Roscko. Richard Cables. Third row: 1. to r. Miss Gangloff. Adviser; Frederick Sutcliffe, Cecelia Caron, Maureen Gleeson, Audrey Fargo, Robert Morse. JUNIOR RED CROSS First row: 1. to r. Frederick Sutcliffe, Kurt Selchow. Gerald Mosimann. Charles Fray, Richard Griffin, Robert Morse, William Orlofski, Bruce Anderson. Robert Young, John Rettick. Second row: 1. to r. Marge Homan, Audrey Fargo, Carol Grohoski. Judith Ryan, Vincent Rossi, Rosemary Smith, Mary Lou Bowkett, Hannah Beecher. Margaret Morrison, Richard Cables. Walter Carrington. Third row: I. to r. Miss Gangloff, Adviser; Sharon Kane. Georgine Bruscino, Adriann Verzanni. Alice Grano, Judith Duncan, Cecilia Caron, Rosemary Conrad, Lois Nadeau, Lucy Fluet, Gail Eggleston, Claire Parker. 41 What! No Benny Goodman! Real Cool - Crazy! Milk will do it every time! Sholtis! that is. Don't upstage me. 42 Let’s see—after A comes B. VARSITY BASKETBALL Front row: I. to r. Robert White. Chauncy O’Connell, Michael Savage. Richard Berg. Edward Adam. Henry Gancos. Herbert Koenigsbauer, Manager. Second row: I. to r. George Griffin. John Knox, John Fraser. Noel Smith. BOYS’ BASKETBALL Although there were few candidates for our basketball squads in November, the boys' team did exceedingly well this year. The Junior Varsity, sparked by “Sharkey Griffin has worked well together; and elongated Henry Gancos showed prowess in all of the games, rebounding well and shooting with deadly accuracy. Mr. Walter Schmidt coached this team. The mainstays of the varsity line were Captain Mickey Savage and Nubby O’Connell, who in each game hit into the double figures in scoring. Other standouts on the fast-moving club were Ed Adam, Rich Berg, Bill Sofield and Pete Rayder, coached by Athletic Director Norman Fagerquist. During the first half of the season the five teams in the Housatonic Valley League were deadlocked for first place. Even though the season was a tense one, it will be remembered above all for the fighting spirit and good sportsmanship of the players. This year’s Junior High Basketball team, consisting of boys from the seventh and eighth grades, got off to a good start by winning their first game. The Thomas-ton team, coached by Mr. Charles Holbrook, is a member of the Junior High Housatonic Valley League and serves two important functions—it provides an opportunity for the Junior High boys to participate in school sports and at the same time it prepares them for participation in Junior Varsity and Varsity basketball. VARSITY BASKETBALL Opponent Thomaston Opponent Thomaston Woodbury 26 39 Watertown 74 47 Litchfield 61 54 Litchfield 59 47 Terryville 38 52 Kaynor Tech 41 57 St. Anthony 57 42 Terryville 53 43 Alumni 63 39 Regional 50 44 Ellsworth 63 53 Wamogo 57 49 Wamogo 28 37 Ellsworth 73 36 Woodbury 41 55 St. Anthony 60 51 Regional 68 49 Watertown 81 50 44 JUNIOR VARSITY BASKETBALL Front row: 1. to r. Mr. Holbrook. Bob Morse. Stu Fraser, Dick Barr. Marty DufTany, Arnie Perrin, John Benson. Rich Griffin, Bob McDonald. Second row: 1. to r. John Ryan, Pete Brophy, A1 Dreger, Bill Hart, Dick Fischer, Benny Ebner, Ray Gangloff. 45 First row: 1. to r. Conrad Johnson, Seth Thomas. Robert Monroe. Kirk Kocnigsbauer. Billy Ryan. Second row: I. to r. John Taylor, Harold Dick. George Griffin. John Knox, Henry Gancos, John Brophy, Eugene Ptachcinski. Third row: I. to r. Pete Thulin. Bob Armstrong. Henry Wolfe. JUNIOR HIGH BASKETBALL GIRLS’ BASKETBALL Long, hard practice produces more than a good basketball team—it results in a lot of fun. The girls get enjoyment from playing the game and meet many new friends. The teams played many games this year and had a high percentage of wins. Several new teams were added to the list of opponents this year: Wamago, New Milford, and Waterbury Catholic High. All the games except the Alumni were played in the afternoon and the girls quite often got out early for out-of-town games. On such trips the bus was usually filled with singing, talking, and food. The sponsor of the teams was Miss Lynch who always has perfect answers to what to do, when, where, and why. The girls deeply appreciate her ability, understanding and tolerance. VARSITY BASKETBALL Home Oppone New Milford 46 32 Woodbury 21 33 Alumni 31 18 Litchfield 49 35 Terry ville 24 25 Wamogo 42 19 Naugatuck 28 26 New Milford 26 39 Terry ville 34 32 Waterbury Catholic High 29 36 Litchfield 33 30 Waterbury Catholic High 39 25 Woodbury 46 22 First row: I. to r. Betty Campbell, Ann Kennedy, Margaret Ebner. Lois Atwood, Gertrude Schneider. Second row: 1. to r. Patty Adam. Tina Warner, Jackie Brophy, Mary Jane Mc-Quarrie, Pat Konitski, Joyce Brammcr, Susan Schmelter. Third row: I. to r. Bernice Pszkoski, Kate Woodbridge, Donna Reeves, Miss Lynch, Coach. GIRI.S’ VARSITY BASKETBALL GIRLS’ J.V. BASKETBALL First row: I. to r. Judy White. Lorraine Szymanski. Dorothy Rogozinski, Joyce Pecco, Dianne Benson, Marsha Sangster, Linda Bothroyd. Virginia Welton. Second row: 1. to r. Susan Schmelter, Jean Smith, Rachael Raider, Virginia Peck, Diane Schmelter, Priscilla Adam, Patricia Adam. Brenda Bothroyd. Joyce Brammer. Third row: 1. to r. Bernice Pszkoski, Kate Woodbridge, Donna Reeves, Miss Rose Lynch, Coach. AUTOMATIC! 47 SOCCER First row: 1. to r. John Brophy. Bill Ryan, Nubby O’Connell, Richard Berg, Edward Adam, Michael Savage. Second row: 1. to r. George Griffin. Henry Gancos, John Knox, Noel Smith, George Kindness, Seth Thomas. SOCCER Thomaston High may well be proud of its soccer team this year. The boys, with a record of six wins, two losses, and one tie, succeeded in capturing the Housatonic Valley League championship. Especially prominent in the games were George Kindness, fullback; Mike Savage, and Nubby O’Connell—Nubby and Mike getting seven goals apiece. One of the most memorable games was at Newtown when, with pouring rain and a muddy field, the game ended in a tie. Opponent Thomaston Bristol 3 2 Litchfield 0 2 Watertown 1 3 New Milford 0 5 Litchfield 0 2 Watertown 2 1 New Milford Newtown 1 7 1 2 Newtown 0 0 48 George Griffiin, Chauncey O’Connell, John Knox, Edward Adam, Michael Savage. Oris Ganglo BASEBALL Powered by good hitting, the Thomaston High School baseball team won seven games and lost five. Jim Berg hit .342, and both Mike Savage and Myron Roman hit over .300. Nubby O’Connell won two games for T.H.S. against St. Anthony’s with a base hit in the ninth inning, and with another base hit against Kaynor Tech in the eleventh. The Junior High baseball team under Coach Schmidt, had a record of four wins and four losses. Outstanding players were Conrad Johnson, John Brophy, Bill Ryan, and George Harlow. Varsity Scores Kaynor Tech Opponent 8 Thomaston 13 Oliver Wolcott 0 12 Litchfield 2 22 Terry ville 4 3 Watertown 7 4 Litchfield 18 19 St. Anthony’s 4 3 Watertown 6 4 Terry ville 8 5 Oliver Wolcott 4 6 St. Anthony’s 5 6 49 Berg Roman Vita CHEERLEADERS First row: 1. to r. Elsa Thulin, Beatrice Bernatchez, Judith Calkins, Dorothea Harris. Second row: 1. to r. Jacqueline Steiner, Marlene llnicky. Gay Baldwin, Sandra Mariani, Dorothy Bergman. They can’t hardly do that no more!!! Senior Pepperettes! flight Must Fall firstProduction Of Drama Club Mima ’of °C vmunce Must,.1'8 ’of llre W tT} Monday in 1 toriotn- The pfay.i endrtckse1 head of v (jeparttn Cast Lee Bj 1 Judy f lTf i T) 1 and ra HV 1 Vtosk.. tes r—• 1 nrogr J iVic esej Ar( hve bei.2l b,ob ,T - % - • « % skethaU ? ' 4 . 195a-56 Mhford ,dbury mni, n «W odbury, a ay ;chfield !rryvme, a-ay amogo, a ay augatuch v)ew MBford, av ay Thomaslon High School Boys Basketball Schedule 1955-56 Dec. 2—At Woodbury Dec. 9—At Litchfield Dec. 16—Terryville Dec. 20—St. Anthony Dec. 22—Alumni Jan. 4—Ellsworth Jan. 6—At Wamogo Regional Jan. 10—Woodbury Jan. 13—At Regional Jan. 17—Watertown ’an. 20—Litchfield , � . 25—Kaynor Tech, 3 P.M. —At Terryville .% . -Regional AX Vamogo Regional ' Ellsworth Anthony X v 0%X P rtown a;oAV. %T°X 7 p. m. - i snts ■ a % Sal as, •i ,f ?e «An, f e Jn iineaO. 7, .°maQbaif '« AAV SA A 3 � a; v ■ Sr°a Se� « A' o jfek -v fe :iW?' ' ' £ •nf'fon Wtm tK v0' Pe?erf rALI _-ASS_ - C-f ft J‘f tt«h 0O'Gy,”p M. T;Viomas'-°n g to Curtiss’ airplane glue? Could you do it and look any better? ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Owl Staff acknowledges with appreciation the help of Paul Danaluck of Arthur’s Studio, Waterbury; Jack Brown of T. O'Toole and Son, Inc., Stamford; Mathew Monahan, Thomas-ton; and Miss Eleanor Mahar. 52