May 1967 - Mood swings, Discontent, Weight problems, Judy Whittingham's poetry

 

"Monday, May 1

Dear Diary,

Well, Sue isn't mad, but I don't like Bobby Harrington! He made up some fantastic tale about when he brought me home - the liar! Rosy, Marie de Montfort, & May Bob all yelled at me today. Monty's being transferred. Sue & I had cokes & brownies after school. I didn't feel like going to work so I took my time. Everyone was interested in the prom so I told them I had a great time. Dennis was asking about Joan again - I'm sick of it! Mary came down after supper. Went to the new Friendly's - across from Ronnie's. A nice kid named Bill works there. Watched Monkees - Sue called - Rat Patrol - went back to Friendly's - put Joanne to bed. Did homework. Still have more to do. Mailed Allan's letter.  Bye"

"Tuesday, May 2 

Dear Diary,

Went to Church during first period to practice songs for tomorrow's Mass. Got the returns from the Nat. Merit Scholarship Program Test - I had the highest mark in the room - 126 - Buffy was next with 122. Sue & I had cokes in Butler's. Met Berta & Julie, then Marie, & finally Debbie & Jill. I was 1/2 hour late for work - I don't care. I spent most of the time in the Staff Library so I didn't see Dennis too much. After supper I went collecting for the Cancer Crusade. There is a real neat kid at 96 Marshall St - his last name is Gistis - but I didn't see him when I was collecting. Patty, Lee, & I went to Friendly's, Sunnybrook, Ricotta's, & Frank's. Rat Patrol cards are out now.  Bye"

"Wednesday, May 3

Dear Diary,

Went to Mass at 11:45 as did the whole high school. Martha Melican & I spent study talking about chemistry college boards - I'm going to flunk. Sue & I had cokes, & I bought two gingerbread boys. Hafta work 9-12 tomorrow. Also have to get a working permit - I'm not bothering. Went to dancing school at 6:15 ... Mary Flynn told me Fr Cronin was transferred - holy -----! He was the best priest we ever had. Had a coke in Drug Store while Joan was on the phone. Talked with Arlene & Kathy. Linda & Elaine sat on either side of me when they came in. Walked to Friendly's with Frank. Met Joe Sylvestro. Talked on the phone with Steve & Bill - doesn't believe I'm almost 17.     Bye"                                  

                                                      

"Thursday, May 4                 Ascension Thursday

Dear Diary,

Got up at 8:15 - took my time getting ready - finally left at 9:05. Mrs Oeulette was asking for my worker's permit, & I lied - said I had looked into it. Worked till 12. Mrs Strong had a boy this am. Went babysitting at 2:15. Played outside with Cory & Joanne (I brought her along). Got home about 4 - got $1. Mrs Berg gave me a lift to the Sq. Went to Town Hall for my birth certificate (needed for working permit). Went to 5:30 Mass with Dad, Jimmy, & Chris. Went babysitting again for the Strongs at 7:15. Put them to bed at 8. Read. Walked home at 9:20. Watched more tv - nothing good on Thurs nites since Jericho was axed.         Bye"

I'm surprised at my attitude toward work and especially the working permit - can't believe I lied to the boss! I remember myself as a goody two shoes!

"Friday, May 5

Dear Diary,

Went to Wat High School at 8:30 to get a worker's permit. After waiting 45 mins, I finally gave up. Mrs Castle took me to the cottage where she stays during the week - nice & cozy. Got home about 12:20. Went babysitting at 2:15 for the Strongs - Patty came along - those kids are wild - I like Kelly Sue best. Got home about 4:30. Watched tv after drying dishes. I returned to the Strongs at 7:15. Their grand-mother is coming tomorrow. Mr Strong drove me home - he's nice. Watched T.H.E. Cat & Laredo. Mary Pat called about 10 - the Navins got back from Falmouth about 9:30. Hafta take the College Boards tomorrow. Pray for me.  Bye"

Sat, May 6 

Dear Dairy,

Got up at 7:30. Mary Power came by at 8, & we headed for Wat High. The tests started at 8:45 - the first was college entrance - 3 hrs long. Wasn't too bad. Got thru at 12. Liz & I waited for Marie & Moe in her car - got kicked out of the High School with some HS boys for making a ruckus. Mary never found us ... We 4 went to McManus' for lunch. Returned to HS at 1:15. The achievements started at about 2. English was pretty easy, Math - 1st half was easy - last 1/2 rather hard, & chemistry - forget it! - couldn't answer hardly any. Got out at 5:30. Maureen Huliston broke her arm. Mickey Joe (Michael Walsh) was down - about 6 wks old. Went babysitting at 7 - the McC's are moving to RI! Bye Margy!!   Bye"

Above is the ticket to get into the College Boards.

"Admission Ticket

College Entrance Examination Board

    2694         May 06 1967   Saturday           X       X

Center No                Test Date                    Sat    Ach    Ws

                                                                    Tests Registered 

Watertown HS - Columbia St

Watertown - Mass

Report at Test Center Address Given Above

                                                            If asterisk appears after center                                                                 address, it was impossible to                                                                     assign you to center requested.

Registration 

   Number

  2719745        Mary      E        Manning

                                59 Marshall St

                        Watertown, Mass 02172

Any further correspondence with the College Board should specify which test was taken and when, your Registration Number as shown above, and your full name and birth date."

I don't remember when or how we received the test results, but they came on this little slip of paper.

When I looked up the old scores on https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d96/d96t125.asp, the verbal score average I received was 594 - the national average for 1966-1967 was 466; for females the average was 468, for boys 463.

I received 558 in the aptitude math - the national average for 1966-1967 was 492; for females the average was 514, for boys 467.

I tried looking up the achievement scores as well. This is what IA generated on my search: 

"Scoring Scale: Like other College Board SAT Subject Tests (then called Achievement Tests), the Chemistry Achievement Test used a score scale of 200 to 800." 

Wikipedia states that 575 was the mean score for the Chemistry Achievement test. I made 482. So I didn't do so well in Chemistry!

The mean score for the Math 1 Achievement Test was 543. I made 542. A mean score is the average score. So I was average.

The above report states I made EN 584 but was that English Composition (mean score 512,) or Literature (mean score 523,) or what? Whichever, I did better than average. 

I tried logging onto the College Board site but was directed to contact the College Board. I guess my account is way too old!!

"Sunday, May 7

Dear Diary,

At 11:30 Patty & I were dressing Joanne (Mum wasn't home to take care of her). We 3, Jimmy, & Dad went to Mass - met Joan & Nancy. Patty & I went for pizza - wasn't too hot. Patty said today was Mother's Day's, so we went to Fox's to get something for Mum - met Dennis S - convinced him to get his mother a card - David Appel then told us M Day is next Sunday. Stopped at Friendly's - talked with Arlene & Kathy. Moe came by about 3:30. About 5, she, Mary Pat, & I walked to Frank's. Moe went home. Mary & I went to her house. Did some algebra. Returned home to see FBI - great - Jim was caught in cave-in. Watched Carousel - fantastic! - I cried all thru it - I love Bob Goulet. It's 11:15 & I must do my homework.     Nite"

"Monday, May 8                                                             158v

Dear Diary,

Nothing doing at school - I'm bored stiff - just look at the window. Sue & I had cokes in Butlers. Got to work about 3:30. Dennis never showed up, but Mrs Staires came anyway - thought he was at work. Went down Walnut St & met him - had to stay after school. Went to American Laundry & then she drove me home. Did homework. Watched most of the Monkees - left at 7:55 for the Hibernians - Mary Flynn's Whist Party. Joan & I had our usual row. I was in a bad mood. Joan called Gil during intermission - I talked a bit - sounds groovy. Pat McD showed up about 10:30 - pretended I was mad at him. Shook hands when I was leaving.  Bye"

"Tuesday, May 9

Dear Diary,

Having a white elephant sale to raise money for some priest in South America. Sue, Marie, & I were walking down to the Sq when I pulled out a pack of Larks (cigarettes.) Marie took one but wouldn't smoke it in public. We were crossing the street, & I was pulling one out when Sue spotted Mum - that was close! (phew!) Had a coke in Butlers. Got to work at 3:50. I don't want to work this summer - just hope that Dennis doesn't go to Calif - I don't want to work his hours. Haven't been bothered for a permit lately - to hell with it! Tommy McLoughlin hasn't been here in 2 days - thank God - I guess he's not coming any more. Did homework. Read Plutarch's Life of Cicero. Watched some tv program on college.   Bye"

I am shocked to read that I had a pack of cigarettes in my Junior year of High School! I didn't start smoking till I was a sophomore in college!

"Wednesday, May 10                                                                ^

Dear Diary,

Having all sorts of quizzes these next 2 days. During study Fred de Norscia came in & asked for 2 good looking members of the World Affairs Club. (Hope this doesn't sound like bragging.) Most of the kids turned around & looked at me & told me to go. Rosey drafted me first, then Marie. Had 4 pix taken. Monty told me that I shouldn't have any trouble getting into college. Sue & I had our regular. Got to work at 5. Went to dancing at 6:10. Stopped in Fantasia's to have my pills refilled. Maureen McKenzie's brother didn't come this week - said Joan & I were cute kids - either he just meant Joanie or he needs glasses. Talked to Lee & John afterwards ... Went to Friendly's. Saw D Staires but ignored him. Got home about 9. Did homework till 11:30.   Bye"

Having my diet pills refilled after having a coke and brownie at Butler's and later going to Friendly's!!

"Thursday, May 11

Dear Diary,

Marie & I are in charge of the things for the white elephant sale. Had a movie during chem. Sue & I were talking to Rosie after school about boys - dating, etc. Sue's taking pills to lose weight too. Had a coke & brownie in Butler's. Got to work at 3:55. Everyone went to a tea, & I was left in charge of the library. Some kid called about a record, & we had a long conversation - told me not to be too lonely. Dennis saw us last nite at Friendly's. The sound is going on our tv. Started home work at 6:30. Took a break at 9:45 (Still on it at 1. Hafta to do Latin - 4 tests tomorrow. I'm still waiting for a letter from Allan.   Bye"

I can't believe that Sue & I are both taking diet pills to lose weight, yet we have at least 1 coke and a brownie every day after school! Every day! Never mind the ice cream cones, pizzas, and Friendly's! Mary Patricia, Patty, & I used to love the cheeseburgers and vanilla Fribbles at Friendly's - imagine the calories in those delicious Fribbles! What a brain disconnect!

"Friday, May 12

35 days till June 16 - 50 till July 1

Dear Diary,

Had a religion test - easy, French - easier, Latin - oral, & English -*@#$% - I forgot one author & there were about 5 of his selections - I knew titles. During Chem all but 5 of us went to White Elephant Sale. Got out at 3. Had a coke in Butler's. Met Marie Barbato, & Sue left with her. Got to work about 3:35 - early. Some kids from NY I came in - they couldn't all have been one (? one what) - one nice looking one was watching - I was on a ladder. David Walsh is here for weekend. Tommy came today. Went to Sq - Saw 'John Smith' & Lizzie - talked to her for almost a 1/2 hour. Watched UNCLE, THE Cat, & Laredo - hardly any sound from the picture box.   Bye"

"Saturday, May 13

Dear Diary,

Was 5 mins late for work - Paul was there, & Linda never showed up. Sheer hell. Lost 1 envelope - collected about $172. Paul gave me a ride home. Diane & Mary came - went to Friendly's. Joanie met us. Mary ate supper here. Mum & Dad both went out. Jody, Christine, & I went to Victory Field with Mary, Joan, & Diane to play ball. Johnny & Pete came over later & played with us. I left about 8:30. The others came down about 5 mins later. Mary & I played Monopoly while Johnny & Pete played cards - Mary burnt popcorn. We fooled around around till 11:30 - talked about all kinds of filthy things. Pete seems to like Mary but he kept staring at me all night. I don't know why. Made a fool of myself.   Bye"

"Sunday, May 14

Mother's Day

Dear Diary,

Went to Mass with Mum, Dad, & Jody. Met Joanie & Mary. Mum wouldn't let me walk home so I was in a bad mood. Went to Navins about 2:30. MPV & I played catch - hit her in the face - I felt terrible. Went to Friendly & saw David Sheehan. Tried to find a Mother's Day card but couldn't. Played baseball at Vict Field with Johnny, Jay, Tommy, & George. Joanie, Diane, & Patty came about an hour later. Johnny & Jay left. Played till almost 8. Patty went babysitting for me. MVP, Joan, Diane, & I went to Frank's. Joan & Di left about 8:30. Pete came about 8:45. I stayed a while. Everyone thinks I'm madly in love with him & say so in front of him, but I'm not. I was in a rotten mood - Mary & I were playing Monopoly in her dining room & Jay & Pete were in the living room - they seemed to be talking for our benefit. While he's with Jay, Pete acts like a bitch. He's alright otherwise. Jay makes me sick. Made a scene on the way home. MVPN must hate me. Bye"

"Monday, May 15

Dear Diary,

Getting DPT (?) booster shots this week some time. Got out at 3. Had usual in Butler's. Got to work about 3:50. It was raining. Dennis (Mama's boy) didn't show up. I despise both him & Joe. I can't stand Joe - he's trying to prove something (that he's very masculine or something) by trying to show Dennis up - the ass. Good old Tommy was here. The tv is still on the blink but we watched the Monkees - repeat, Felony Squad - sewer episode - it was terrific, & Rat Patrol - Mark was injured! - Fantastic - best of all of 'em.  Bye  5/17/67"

"Tuesday, May 16

Dear Diary,

No shots today. Sue wasn't in school. Got to work at 3:40. Dennis didn't come today either. Walked home - at least today it was nice. After supper I went to King's with Mary, Janet, & Carol - they want to come to Fal July 2-5. That'll stink - Mary'll be with them & Joan with Janet - and I'll be stuck alone. Met Joan - wanted me to go to Kenmore Sq to meet Gil & Jace - if it hadn't been dark, I would have. Up till 11:30 with homework.  Bye. (5/17/67)"

"Wednesday, May 17

Dear Diary,

No shots today either. 11A is having a hot dog day next Wed. Had a movie during Math & Chem. During Study all the girls had to clean the chem lab. Sue, 4 others, & I stayed till 5:40 with Monty - didn't know how late it was. Talked about everything under the sun - sex education, Cameron & Clarke, Chem, Mary Power, College Boards, nuns, etc. Walked Sue to Sq & went to Hully's - called Mum - Sue's mom had called - was frantic - she'll be killed. The Park gang took up a collection to have a boy kiss ____ - got $27. He kissed her, & kids told her that was how you got pregnant - she believed them! Spilled the beans to May Bob after school. Went to dancing school - doing 5 or 6 dances in the recital (June 15th). Joan, Diane, & I went to Friendly's. Liz called - wants me to be on a debate for capital punishment - called at 9  - hadn't done any homework.   Bye"

I can't believe the cruelty of what happened to this girl! At a Catholic School no less! I am squirming at things I have been saying in this diary - don't like this one, hate that one, not taking work seriously - I always thought I worked hard at Perkins! But what happened to this girl was unconscionable.  Kids can be cruel and do have to learn what is right and wrong, etc. But that no one from the Park gang would think this was cruel and stop it! I thought I was bad not wanting to hang out with the kid who attempted suicide! I'm glad I had forgotten about this incident - I can't stop thinking about it now.

"Thursday, May 18

Dear Diary,

What a great debate! Claire & I just sat there & said nothing - everyone was for it & directed their comments to Martha. Liz ended it at 9:30 & told the Sodality I was directing a discussion on trial marriages - free love. (I had suggested that for the debate.) I had to defend it tho' I'm not in favor of it - everyone was against it. Told Rosey we were in Chem lab till 6 talking about filthy things (kidding). She said she had heard about the content of my conversations from different levels - I'm too terrible! Had a coke at Butler's. They weren't mad at Perkins. Dennis was there. His mother didn't pick him up, so we started walking. Eddie pulled up & gave us a ride - he's a great kid no matter what anyone says. Patty & I went to Sq about 8:15. Bought a jersey & shorts (latter didn't fit but they will - they're slim).  Nite"

"Friday, May 19

28 days till school's out and 43 till Falmouth

Dear Diary,

Still no shots. No Florentia either. Monty is fed up with us & refuses to teach us - gives us things to write out & just sits there - like that for the rest of the year. Had a coke, & Mary Joyce invited herself along. Sat on a bench near the river, & she left us. Got to work about 3:50 - got paid $19.88. Walked home with Dennis - Eddie never came. Mary & Joan are on an overnite at Cedar Hill, Moe's mad - nothin to do. Mary Power called up - hafta babysit tomorrow for one of her clients. Watched tv. Patty & Lee came in about 11 & we went to Friendly's. Neat kids hang out there. Walked Lee home. Came home to bed. Pete never came up afta Scouts - wonder what he thinks of me now? (I'm not sure I want to know)  Nite"

"Saturday, May 20                     Stayed over at Navin's

Dear Diary,

Went to work as usual - Paul was there. Eddie Falter & a gang of 7th graders came in - caused a riot. Eddie got me a vanilla Fribble cause I'm such a nice kid - terribly thick (the Fribble that is.) Got home about 2:30. Moe called - wanted me to babysit but I couldn't. Went to her house - loafed, played basketball. Bruce Palmer (of Demolay & Fellowship) came by. Moe & I went to Frank's with him. Seems nice. He came back to Moe's. Ellen & I played basketball while Moe talked with him. We joined them later. Left at 5:30. Went babysitting for Goodmans at 7:45 - kinda rich - got to Navins at 11:45 - got $3 - generous. Washed my hair in the kitchen & talked with Jay. Mary got home about 1. Exchanged diaries. It's now 4:45 & birds are chirping.  Nite"

"Sunday, May 21 

Dear Diary,

Got up at 12:45 (It was 5:45 before we went to sleep.) Went home for dinner.  Helped Patty collect for Leukemia. Went to Gistis' & saw Chris (?) - What a hunk!! Saw Ronnie playing ball in Philips school yard - he gave Patty a nickel. Mary & I went to Friendly's. Later she, Patty, & I played catch. Went to 5:30 Mass - met Dennis on way home - he blanks. Jim, Kathleen, & Jimmy came down. Went to Navins - made a hamburg for Pete (I think he hates me, I don't blame him). Went to McLoughlin's with Mary.  Nite"

(I wrote Dennis 'blanks' in my diary - I didn't edit it.)

"Monday, May 22

Dear Diary,

Gave up a chance to sing for graduation - Rosey wanted volunteers to sing for Confirmation on Thurs & I didn't want to lose a day at Perkins - the kids that sing at Confirmation sing at Graduation. Bought new shoes - the nails in the heels of my old ones are coming through. Mrs Staires ( has a new car) picked us up - I was hoping Eddie would. Sue, Paul, & Mikey picked me up at 7:10 - went to class nite. It was pretty good. I was willed Mary Kelleher's tardy marks. Alice Nelligan graduates this year. Met her outside & we were crying & hugging each other (she used to be my best friend - & no matter what happens she will always be very, very close to me). Paul & Mikey picked us up at 9:30. They're mad cause I didn't wave to them on Sunday - I didn't even see them.  Bye"

"Tuesday, May 23

Dear Diary,

 I was chosen as a member of the National Honor Society. 8 Juniors, all girls were chosen. I was elected to give the acceptance speech - fun!  Had to practice so missed Latin & Eng. Sue & I had our usual in Butler's. Went to work - Mrs Staires picked us up. After supper Patty & I went to Parker Drug, Sunnybrook, & Friendly's. At the latter we saw Ronnie - talked a while - was in a hurry. Returned to Parker Drug and SB with Navin. Did homework, memorized speech (I'm still not sure of it & I spent almost 2 hours intermittently on it - only 3 sentences), & ironed. At 11 I found I had no nylons so I pulled out all my old ones & Finally found a good pair. Pray for me.  Bye"

"Wednesday, May 24         Hot Dog Day

Dear Diary,

Martha Melican picked me up at 8:30. Brought pots & grills to hall & then we practiced for the National Honor Society. At 9:30 the Induction began. Mum, Dad, & Jody were in the audience as was Hannie. The speech went over pretty good considering I was petrified. After that I stayed & helped the woman prepare the hot dogs. The kids started over about 12:10. I sold candy. Made about $79 altogether - not all profit. Had a May Procession. Missed Rel, French, Latin, Eng, & Math. Got out at 2:50. Had coke at Butler's. Went to work. Mrs Staires didn't come & Dennis told Eddie not to. Went to dancing school. Have to get ready for Feis June 4. Went to Friendly's. Saw Ronnie & Dottie. Met Patty & Lee & came home with them.  Bye"

Interesting that I list Wednesday as Hot Dog Day and not National Honor Society Day! Priorities!!

I have always hated Public Speaking - I turn red, my palms sweat, my heart races, knees get wobbly, I have trouble concentrating. I have tried Public Speaking Classes at Northeastern University and at Tufts Health Plan, I have begged managers not to include it in my evaluation goals. I must have a phobia about it.

"National Honor Society

Saint Patrick High School

Chapter

Induction

May 24, 1967"

"National Honor Society

Induction

Star Spangled Banner .................................................. Students

Welcome.......................................................... William Sullivan

History and Organization of Honor Society .......Donna, Russo, 

Lawrence Tiberio

Interpretation of Emblem ....... Maureen Maloney, Albert Smith

**********Illumination of Candles**********

Nancy Roth                                Lawrence Tiberio

John Fantasia                       Maureen Maloney

Roll Call of Candidates ............................. Sr Mary Robert, OP

Pledge ............................................................. William Sullivan

Reception of Candidates ............................ Sr Mary Robert, OP

Honor Members' Welcome ............................... William Sullivan

Response ................................................... Mary Ellen Manning

Remarks ................................................... Rt Rev M J Houlihan

                                                   Rev Edward M Markowski, OP

Selections ................................................................ Senior Class"

"National Honor Society 

Membership Card

Issued to Mary Ellen Maning

Saint Patrick Chapter 11946

Sister Mary Robert, OP Principal

Freeworth Bumpkins, Secretary"

"National Honor Society Installation Pledge

Aware of the honor which is being bestowed upon me/by my election to membership in the National Honor Society/I pledge to maintain my high scholastic standing/to hold as fundamental and worthy, an untarnished character/to endeavor intelligently and courageously to be a leader/and to give myself freely & generously in the service of others. / In so doing, I shall prove myself worthy of a place in the National Honor Society."

"Thursday, May 25        2 wks & 1 day till school's out

Dear Diary,

Raining when I left for school. Later it turned into a Northeaster - the wind was unbelievable! Didn't have Flo or Monty today. Definitely getting booster shots tomorrow - the nurse was around today. Got out of school at 2:30. Sue had to sing at Confirmation so we waited in school till 3:15 - she went to Church & I went to Hully's. It was pouring. About 4 Dad picked Jimmy & me up, & drove me to work. Not much doing there - I hope Dennis & Joe quit - especially Joe. Not much doing. Listened to records, finally wrote to Mary J, did homework, & watched tv. Sue & I might go to the Sophomore Dance. I don't actually want to go - I can go or babysit for Dickies - I need the money.  Bye"

St Pat's didn't have a nurse on staff but contracted with the Watertown Health Department for a Public Health Nurse to provide immunizations, eye and ear tests, and anything else needed health wise. I think one of the nurses was Mrs Corcoran or Mrs Concannon?

"Friday, May 26                                    (written 5/28/67)

Dear Diary,

We had 'em - they hurt! Got sick afterwards - everyone knew it. I felt better so didn't go home. Not much doing. Had our usual in Butler's. Slipped away from Mary Joyce. I despise Dennis & Joe - the latter especially. Mrs S picked up Eddie today - unfortunately D wouldn't relinquish the front seat so Eddie got stuck with Joe (he doesn't like him). I'm walking home from now on! Went babysitting for Dickies at 7:30. Told Mikey (? Mikey Dickie - one of the kids?) that Pete was coming over & we'd be making out. He said if Pete kissed me, he'd punch him in the mouth. Did some homework. Got home at 1:30. Got $3. Watched tv till 2:30.  Nite"

I guess I chose babysitting over the school dance! But did I buy a ticket?

"Saint Patrick High School Class of '69

invites all to

"On A Carousal"

Friday Evening, May 26th, 1967

8 o'clock to 11 o'clock

Saint Patrick Parish Hall

Church Hill St., Watertown

Featuring The 'EMMANONS'        Donation 99 cents"

"Saturday, May 27

Dear Diary,

Paul picked me up today. Linda didn't send for tickets for the DC 5 concert (Dave Clark 5) because she can't find the ad for it. Most of the paperboys are neat kids - only they are too young. The oldest is Tim ____ & I hate him. Paul ain't coming for the next 3 wks. He brought his old Air Force helmet & let the kids try it on. I tried it & then couldn't get it off - very embarrassing. Navin & I went to Waltham - had to wait a 1/2 hour for a bus both ways. Bought a dress for summer (Falmouth) $4. Went to McClennens at 6:45 - they didn't leave till 7:15. Moving Mon. Navin came to say bye to Margy. I'll really miss her - I just love her. They want me to babysit for them sometime during the summer. Stayed overnite at Navin's. Lee, Kathy, & Marsha were positive someone was in the house. After a while we were all petrified. Jimmy McMahon & Mike McManus came & searched - felt like a fool. Mary arrived about 12:30? Pete stayed over too - neither of us said a word. Chris is home for the summer.  Bye"

I did love that baby - Margy - I was so sad when they moved away. We all loved her. The dental hygienist at Dr Dinjian's was an aunt to Mr or Mrs McClennen and I would always ask about Margy when I went to the dentist. I wonder what happened to her?

First Communions are usually held on a Saturday in May I believe. Below are Mum and Dad with Jimmy on his First Communion in front of St Pat's Church. Mae Keohane, my mother's 1st cousin, was his Godmother; my father's brother, Danno or Franny was his Godfather I believe. We were recently talking about this - Patty, Christine, and I - Christine was remembering being jealous that Jimmy was getting mail - cards and packages - from Mae because she lived in Somerville, didn't drive, and we didn't see her often. Christine's Godparents were Rita and Dickie Walsh - my mother's sister and brother-in-law - they lived in Waltham so we saw them often.    

I don't have any mention of the First Communion in my diary which surprised me because this picture was from my camera. But I worked on Saturdays so maybe I needed the money more than I needed to see Jimmy make his First Communion. I also thought there was a Communion picture somewhere with Mae in it as well. And there must have been some kind of party or celebration, wasn't there?

 

"Sunday, May 28

Dear Diary,

Woke up about 9:30 & couldn't go back to sleep. Got up at 10:30 as Chris & Pete left for Mass. Mary & I went to the 11:45 Mass. Saw 'David' & Spider - I hate him. Walked home. Had turkey for dinner. After cleaning the room, went to the Navins - Mary & I went to Friendly's, then to drugstore. Met Lee McM & Patty. Returned to Navins - played piano, listened to records. Left about 6. Left at 7:15 with Mary for graduation - I went to see Alice & Roy, Mary for Bev (? Beverly Brown? I think she used to date Chris). It wasn't too impressive - the girls were all crying. Afterwards we were congratulating everyone - shaking hands, kissing, hugging. Got jealous when Alice kissed Mary, Diane, & Joanie. Monty was kissing & hugging Peter Liddell - very shocking. Walked to Sq with Sue - she had a fight with Paul.  Nite"

"Monday, May 29                                    JFK Day

Dear Diary,

I couldn't fake it - Mum remembered that yesterday I said I didn't want to go to school. Made $72.16 on Hot Dog Day for Fr Breslin. Got out at 3. Sue & I went to Butlers & 5 & 10. Got to work at 4. Today was JFK Day - Rosary, Mt Trinity, Waltham didn't have school. Walked home from work although Mrs Staires, Dennis' uncle, & Grammy came after him & offered me a ride. Got home about 5:20. After supper I called Sue. Had a fight with Mum & Patty over who was babysitting - I was going to go out with Sue, & Patty wanted to go to baseball practice. I finally gave in. Sue came about 6:45. Brought Prom pix - it was good - I looked best in hers. I dislike Harrington & to think he kissed me! Yeck! Went to Friendly's with Patty & Lee.  Nite"

May 29 was JFK's birthday - this must be why we were celebrating it. Memorial Day didn't become a Monday holiday until 1968 or 1971. 

"Tuesday, May 30                                    Memorial Day

Dear Diary,

Slept till 12 - would have slept later but Moe called. Cleaned room & went to the store. At 2:30 went to Moe's. Marie B & Marie ? were there with Ellen. About 3:30 Ellen & I started to wash the car. Soon it turned into a water fight between Denise (Stinehart) & me. We were spraying each other with the hose - I was soaked - literally soaked - hair, leathers (?), even undies. Moe lent me a sweatshirt & shorts at 4:30 when we went in, & Ellen came here for dry clothes. Marie & Liz came about 4:40, & we 4 went off in Liz's car - waving at boys, etc. Arrived home about 6. Had a picnic in backyard. Came in & watched tv, did homework. Joan, Mary, & Carol M came down but I didn't go with them ... Watched 'My 6 Loves' - good. It's now 12:11.   Nite"

When we ate outside - picnic or cookout, we brought out a tablecloth for the picnic table, china and silverware, all the food and condiments, the kettle of water to keep it warm for tea, and maybe a pot of beans, or corn, or anything that needed to be kept warm. We all loved to eat outside but it was more work than eating in the house!!

"Wednesday, May 31

Dear Diary,

Had a surprise religion test - it was tres difficile. Had an English test - I hadn't studied for it - c'etait impossible! Got out at 3 - had drinks in Butlers. Was annoyed with Cook. Got to work about 3:40. Crossing in the Sq, a cop yelled & told us to hurry. I ran & the strap of my schoolbag broke - plunk - my schoolbag was in the middle of the street. Had a lot of books to put away today. Got a ride home. Graduation from WHS is June 9 the day we go to Canada. Went to dancing school. Forgot $1 for the Feis which is Sunday. I'm going to get a medal no matter what - although it will probably be 3rd place. Went to Friendly's afterwards with Joan & Diane. Mary came in. Got home about 8:45. Watched 15 mins of Virginian & I Spy. Doing homework.  Bye"

 

"The Curious Savage - A Talent Show

Applause boomed from four audiences totaling 848 people on April 7th, 8th, 9th, an 10th, in response to the superior performances of the senior class in "The Curious Savage". The cast payed a tribute to John Patrick's witty play with a display of talent which continually brought response from the viewers throughout the presentation. Kathryn Whittingham (our distant cousin) was superb in her characterization of Mrs Savage, and each member of the cast deserves special praise for the remarkable acting which captivated the audience during the entire performance. As Mrs Paddy, Linda Maffioli never failed to bring down the house after each recitation, and Janice O'Hara's impersonation of Florence was heart-warming. John Regan portrayed Jeff skillfully, and William Duncan, Paul McCurley, and Ronald Parent were all excellent in their acting. Mary Kelleher was unforgettable as Fairy, and Mary Neenan created a genuine character in her performance. As the sanatorium workers, Frederick DeNorsica and Donna Russo were admirable. The production staff must be commended for a fine job in supplying the labor for the play's presentation, and Mrs June Condon again proved her talents as director in making the play a success. After the Monday night performance bouquets were presented to Mrs Condon and the senior girls in the play."

"Equality?

Hidden deep in the Declaration of Independence there is a phrase, though quite short, which encompasses the reason for which our country was formed. It is 'All men are created equal.'

This phrase probably has a familiar ring, but perhaps you have heard it more often with a few extra words attached. For instance, all men are created equal except Negroes or except Jews or any other combination which perfectly fits the beliefs of some fanatical supremist who refuses to give up hope that one day there will be a superior race.

The primary reason for inequality still being present in our society today is the lack of education in too many people, who without a solid schooling lie prey to the twisted thinking of a bigot. It is going to take, in addition to the proper educating of all citizens, much legislature and reform to erase the stain of prejudice from our country. When the Civil Rights legislation was passed, many thought that it marked the end of all discrimination of any type. However once a law is passed it must be enforced. 

When all bias, prejudice and discrimination are eliminated, and all citizens face reality and realize that all men are created equal, it will be cause for great rejoicing for inequality has always been one of our most important social issues.

                                                                    John Hillier"

John Hillier lived across Green Street from the Hulistons and was in my grade at school. His essay rings especially pertinent today in the divided country we live in with so many citizens of diverse ethnicities as well as documented and non-documented residents facing discrimination - with diversity cast as evil, and with bigoted politicians trying to erase history and dumb down our citizens. We must continue to speak the truth to power and protest tyranny.

"Letter to the Editor 

In this age of identity, the figure who 'identifies' with a cause is often its greatest supporter. In the last edition of The Shamrock, I noticed that Small Pedro 'identified' with Fr Breslin's cause. It seems to me that quite a few of the students have had no chance to become acquainted with our mission symbol, therefore I would like to pass on some information about him. Small Pedro was adopted by the students of St Patrick's last year as a representative of the many poverty-stricken children in South America. He was visualized as a hungry, undernourished charity case, huddled in the confines of his oversized sombrero. The Pedro appeal gathered over fifty dollars for the Dominican Friars in South America during the one-classroom campaign; this year a school-wide campaign should collect enough funds to feed and clothe many more Pedros. The age of our impoverished little friend is unknown, but he can't be too old because the living conditions in places like Chimbote, Peru, create an average life expectancy of about forty-five years. A significant percentage of Pedro's friends never live through their childhood years, and the infant mortality rate is drastic. If Pedro were to lift his sombrero, I am sure we would find him dressed in rags like most other needy South Americans and his eyes would convey the pain of hunger which can be seen in the faces of two-thirds of the earth's people. There are numerous stories about Pedro and his struggle for survival, but rather than try and tell them all, I would suggest that you take a look at some of the actual pictures of families like Pedro's, which are now on the Bulletin Board. One picture is worth a thousand words.

                        Sincerely your,

                                     John Navin"

My cousin's article reminded me of the fabulous education I received at St Pat's. Sure I may have complained about the nuns, but I received such a well rounded education that I will always be grateful. In addition we were supplied with the fundamentals of our Catholic faith - although now I question many of those same beliefs and have lost much of what was once a very strong faith, I have hope with the election of Pope Francis and now Pope Leo. They are opening up the Church and ushering out the old white boys' club. I couldn't be happier - unless I got my faith back!!

In the article about the Honor Roll, I received First Honors in the Junior Class while Mary Navin received them in the Freshman Class. My other cousin, Joan Huliston, received Second Honors in the Freshman Class also. 

"A Summer Night

Wandering down a darkened street, quietly all alone,

Having nothing to think about, but that which is my own;

Life is easy and gentle as I walk and watch the sky,

Love is love and peace as the world moves slowly by.

On a clear night such as this, hair touched by the wind,

It seems the world is at peace, and people have never sinned.

The stars are twinkling brightly, shedding their softest light;

My heart has not a vengeance and my soul is shining bright.

The fuel of the Gloried and the damned has ended, is no more

Now the world's remaining ages can pass through the Golden Door;

Love is flowing throughout the world, freely with kindness and light, 

The stars clarity proves all this, in the warmth of a summer night.

Kathryn Whittingham" (our cousin)

My cousin John Navin was Assistant editor for Page one of The Shamrock. 

I tried to blow up the picture from the Shamrock on Page 4 of Marie Vander Hagen on left and me on right but it came out pretty blurry. The article is about the World Affairs Club. This came about back when Fred DeCorsica was looking for 'good-looking' girls from the WA Club for a picture - a little chauvinistic perhaps?

"WA Discusses WA

In the face of significant world problems, a group of Junior and Sophomore students have joined together to discuss and learn more about the salient issues. Marie Vander Hagen, Mary Ellen Manning, Elizabeth Craig, Diane Patrick, Mary Craig, David Burns, David De Bale, and Richard Tardiff compose the World Affairs Club. Under the direction of Sister Emerita the members expound on the various social and political issues. 

At a recent meeting, Sister Emerita showed the group film strips of Red China. These were followed by individual opinions. On occasion the discussion at these gatherings are spontaneous and can often vary from the topic of the Vietnam turmoil to that of the controversies in Russia. Elizabeth Craig and Marie Vander Hagen will analyze nationalism in Asia and Africa at the next meeting."

"Spring!

Spring.

The 

world 

is

puddle-happy,

green crazy, 

and 

flower silly.

Spring. 

The 

sky 

is blue silly

sun happy,

and 

rain crazy.

Spring.

I 

am

love crazy,

song silly,

and

laugh happy. 

Spring!

                                                        Kathryn Whittingham"