Historical March 1980 report or notice. Original dates, prices and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
During the past month in Washington Heights we experienced the good with the not so good. The Ray family of the 5900 block of Pershing narrowly escaped with their lives when a gas leak caused an enormous explosion and fire in their home. The house and personal belongings of the Ray’s were extensively damaged, but fortunately, all the members of the household had left for work or school. The Ray’s daughter was the last to leave only a few minutes before the blast tore off the front and rear doors of the house and shattered all the windows. She had gone to the neighbor’s to report the gas leak to the fire department who responded so quickly that they arrived before the fire started. We are thankful that no one was injured. Many neighbors came immediately to the aid of the Ray’s and we extend our support to them during this time until their life resumes to normal.
The Acqulino’s have welcomed baby Roseanne into the world. As her name implies, she is dainty and sweet weighing a mere 9 lbs. 1 oz. at birth. Congratulations to the proud parents!
Blanche Reel, longtime resident of WH, has taken on another job to add to the long list of services she has Performed for the area. She is the new President of District 8 of Church of Women United. This ecumenical group, which includes members from 150 countries, will sponsor three special days of prayer in our area. We are sure Blanche will keep us posted.
Christina Storey has not been sitting still this winter. She is a member of the Calico’s soccer team, the women’s counterpart to the Steamers. Not only does Christina play, but her team also wins!
We are sorry to learn that Mr. Thurman Wilhite, who has lived in Washington Heights since 1965, died during January. Memorial services were held January 27th. We extend our sympathy to his family. Another longtime resident, Mr. Norman Hirsch, has died. He had moved to a retirement apartment near our neighborhood about five years ago. He is survived by his wife and son. Many people. of the 5800 block of Pershing cherish fond memories of Mr. Hirsch. On the 5900 block of DeGiverville the father of Mary Washington has passed away. He had been ill for some time. The brother of Mrs. Katey Johnson, also of the 5900 block of DeGiverville, died last month.
We are sorry to hear of the loss of those neighbors and express our sympathy to their families.
Depend on Horace and Anna Busch to give us some good news! They are the lucky winners of an all-expense paid trip to Las Vegas for two for four whole days and three nights. And all because they bought some tickets from the Frontiers International Club to support youth. Now there’s a couple who know how to fool old Winter. Have fun, Anna and’ Horace! Until next month
Originally published in The Paper, March 1980.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1980_03.pdf, printed page(s) 7; PDF page(s) 7.
