Tuesday, July 31, 2012

August 31, 1973 (Letter from Barb)



Hello, hello, I can't believe you're in Pittsburgh! I had a feeling you would never go there for some reason! You'll like it -- it's a little more aesthetically pleasing than Buffalo and it's not "big city" -- have you gone through Shadyside yet? Go to the Gazebo -- it's Pittsburgh's version of the Jewish deli and of course all the in people hang out there. It was good to hear from you -- everyone was interested to hear how you were doing. All of us have been "expressing ourselves", as they say, sometimes conflicting but usually getting along. This week is another heat wave and there's a traffic jam in the kitchen around the ice water. Rick and I did food shopping last week to stock up, so I don't get paid till next Friday and have zero money.  I'll have to borrow money to pay Doyle Monday.  Well, I didn't get the job at the Arlington House at McLean -- they wanted somebody "tougher" -- ? -- after the big rap they gave me about sensitivity.  And I didn't want the other one, so I took the job at Children's.  I've been here all this week and I really like it!  I even got some coloring books and crayons for the little kiddies -- now I have to get a little table for them to sit at -- that ought to keep them quiet!   Rick has been giving me a ride in the morning except for today when it took me over an hour to get here by MTA.  That's not including the bus I didn't wait for, but broke my vow and hitched from Kenmore Square to Longwood, then ran to Children's.  Almost had a cardiac attack when I slid in at 9:15.  I had left Humboldt at 8:00!  Had a hard time getting Harry back in this morning -- the squirrels are on the move and she was freaking out, barking and running from tree to tree.  I should have brought a BONE with me to tempt her back in.  She goes in and sleeps with Bob when I leave in the morning -- what a free and easy dog.  Disgusting.

Let me outline briefly the happenings in and around 15 Humboldt -- after you left Terry and I were alone for a week -- Bob and Steve were off jaunting around.  We started getting paranoid -- locked the bathroom window at night even!  Then I went down to the Vineyard for a couple days (stayed w/ Doreen and John -- they were there on vacation) and stopped on the Cape to see Kinky and Linda.  Rick had lent me his car -- shock!   I got home late last Thursday nite right into zoo city -- 15 Humboldt style -- very reminiscent of the house on the Vineyard 1971!  Steve was in his room balling some chick w/ the door open, Bob was stoned in his room w/ people running in and out and music up to 10 decibels above normal ear damage and Terry was sitting calmly in her room as usual.   I went into my room, dumped all my stuff, came out into the kitchen and Steve is very calmly getting a glass of chocolate milk naked.  I'm there, Hey Steve, would you mind putting something on?  He's there -- what, are you kidding me?  But Grandma Moses prevailed and he put on his shorts.  Within about 1/2 hour I felt shitting and Steve had to come in and sit with me cause I thought I was going to faint again -- so we were friends again anyway.  I was really tired from no sleep and all the driving.  Meanwhile, Steve and Bob have left and come back twice since then -- I don't' know how they do it.  Things have been pretty quiet since, but I do go to bed early now so I miss the late nite "activities".  My big thing this week has been getting something cooked and eating and cleaning up as an evening's activity, w/out falling over from the heat.  The noise level has been stupendous at night w/ Steve's stereo, Bob's (he bought a beautiful set), and Terry's radio (bought from Bob when he got his stereo!).  It's sort of like a liberated college dorm.  The amazing thing is that we can get along under the crowded conditions -- it could have been a different story w/ another set of people.  Oh, fun, fun.  I really fell quite at home there but would not consider it for a permanent residence.  I can't start looking for a possible apt. till I get a few paychecks of course.  I'm glad to hear you're settled.  Let me know how it works out.  Are the rest of the people there students?

Your rendition of the reunion was about what I would imagine, although you failed to mention your favorite couple and mine -- Mardi and Marti.  I imagine they were there.  Now that I'm away from it, I find it hard to really believe it really happened (and it still happening!).  Mardi really did get married, it's all "true" -- is it??  I'm glad I'm not there -- I don't want to be a witness to the settling in and the subsequent dissatisfaction.  I don't know why I'm talking about it so formally except I can't relate to it is why I guess.  Fuck it, it's just something I can't get a hold of!!  Well, I try not to worry or think about it, I've found lately that when I see people (friends) in a mess, or what I perceive to be a fucked up situation, I take it a little way and then I stop and it doesn't really concern me.  I don't know if I'm becoming more selfish or more realistic -- I don't know just thought I'd explain it to you -- maybe you know what I mean -- it's like witnessing but not really letting it get inside you. Ya know???

It's time to go home -- probably finish this tonite -- I think we're going to see "Harold and Maude" tonite -- but then w/ Rick you never know.

Continuing saga of the working girl -- Tuesday Sept 4.

Really meant to finish this this weekend but things got hectic.  Friday nite sat on the roof in a thunderstorm - just felt like it.  I mostly slept all evening -- I was dead.  Saturday Steve and I cleaned the bathroom -- couldn't stand it any more -- it took about 3 hours, pretty good since it has never been cleaned!  And finally I went to see Harold and Maude by myself but I enjoyed it immensely -- great music.  The question of the nite was -- Did they really do it??  Duh!

Sunday started the mad dash -- I went down to the Cape with Doreen and John to hear them play (Harry came too!) -- and we drove back to New Hampshire arriving at 4:00 in the morning.  (They keep this pace up every weekend -- I don't know how!)  Rick came up yesterday and we went swimming and ate and sat around and ate and smoked dope and ate -- got home about 1:30 last night. I don't know what I'm doing today -- everything is sort of passing me by -- maybe if I eat some of my granola I'll perk up.  It's another 90+ day -- when will this ever end?  I don't remember summer being like this here before.  Poor Harry -- stuck up on that 3rd floor all day in this heat!  I left the fan on for her and when I get home she'll get a BONE! and I'll throw her in the bathtub in cold water.

Well, I think I'll mail this!  I'm wishing you well on your new life in Pgh, Pa. -- hope your courses aren't too boring -- there much be something good -- let me know the developments.

Everyone says hi, Harry too!

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

August 28, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Greetings!  Found this card in a card shop in the mall where Korvettes is located.  Liked the owl on the front and thought the inside words were quite strange so I bought it and am now sending it to you.

This week I am working five nights at Korvettes.  Last night was incredibly busy.  I had close to $400 in my register when I closed out.  For awhile it was just one long rush of people.  It is my second and last week though because I am now a grad assistant at SUNY at Albany starting next week!

On Friday I asked my advisor (who is also associate dean) if I should keep 15 credits or not since I now had a part time job and a loan.  She said try it for a couple weeks.  Later that day she called back and wanted to know if I wanted a full assistantship -- someone had turned one down.  Of course I said yes!  So now I will be working 20hrs/wk:  10 in the library school library and 10 in the media library (will learn how to run all the equipment) and will be paid every two weeks -- $2800 for the academic year.  I can only take 9 hrs a semester so I will be at Albany for two years -- but I am free during the summer.

Just an incredible turn of events.  My car needs a rear wheel bearing so our mechanic friend down the road will fix it for me this weekend.  He test drove it with me and said the transmission is perfect (automatic) and the engine is fine.  The bearing is in bad shape because it can be heard, so I'm not driving it until it is fixed -- am going to go out and start up the engine and let is run a little bit.  The car and insurance are totally paid for and I'm eager to be in it.  May buy a tape deck for it after I've had it awhile.  My license plate number is 99 SRH -- easy to remember.

Yesterday I went shopping in an Indian (India) gift shop and bought two shirt tops and one dress.  I also need to buy a five piece suit for this winter.  I haven't done clothes shopping in a long time so I am enjoying it.

Recently I bought 4 records:  Pink Floyd's "Dark Side of the Moon", David Bowie's "Aladdin Sane", Grover Washington's Jr.'s "All the King's Horses", and "Supersax Plays Bird".  Bowie is great!  My favorite song is "Aladdin Sane".  Good rock and roll and I'm really getting into Bowie's voice.  Grover Washington Jr. is also good -- mellow nice to coast along with, lots of back-up so it sounds very rich.  Supersax is the only one I am not totally happy with.  It's old sax solos by Charlie Parker and a couple really swing but the rest sound old.  A very smooth, well done album, though.

Enclosed is a picture of me sitting in my room looking very serious.  The color of the walls is quite accurate.  I need to put up some shelves so I can have some books out and a place to tack up things.

That's all for now.  Take care.


Monday, July 23, 2012

July 27, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Hi sweetie.  Am sitting here in my room playing the stereo with Coryell's "Foreplay" turning on the upstairs of the house.  Right now I'm feeling good for lots of reasons.  1) This week I heard from you, Carol, and Roberta, 2) I pre-registered on Monday and turned in my loan application and the bank called today to check something with me so they have gotten it back from the school.  3) Pat and Linda are coming in tonight and we are all going to New York tomorrow to visit with John and Roberta.  I think this will be the only weekend I will be away, no other plans right now -- I eagerly await your visit.  More on that later.  4) My right bottom wisdom tooth became infected and has been hurting for the last week quite nicely.  Thurs I went to my grandmother's dentist and he said it has to come out but first the infection must be taken care of.  So I've been walking around with an herb poultice called Poloris in between my cheek and gum.  Last night I didn't sleep well despite smoking as a celebration to finishing my bed (next point) but after dinner the infection came to a head and I was able to get pus out of it so it is on the mend -- no more pain!!!  Yeah!  5) I've been working on a bed frame -- I built it all by myself with screws and bolts -- no nails.  I'm really proud of it.  Last night I painted it after putting the last touches on it (more supports at the bottom) and decided to smoke to celebrate.  Had a nice time re-reading your letter and looking at the Farmer's Almanac, boy what a riot!!  You have to look at it -- the advertising is great and all kinds of bits of information on all sorts of things.  6) Having my stereo again after having it out of the room for three days while I was working and moving things around.  7) My parents bought a Ford Torino Sport and we will pick it up Monday evening.  New cars are always fun.  It is a metallic beige with a darker vinyl roof and tan interior, black wall tires with white raised lettering and to top it off a reflectorized "laser stripe" running from one end to the other on both sides.

Close enough.


Monday 30:July -- Greetings!  As I was writing that last sentence, Pat and Linda arrived and although I had good intentions (the letter traveled with me) I did not get a chance to finish it until now.  I got your postcard -- so your car must be doing okay.  Very good and happy for you.

Had a fine time -- played Coryell and Get Off in Chicago for Pat and Linda -- they liked both. Talked and they went to bed.  They got up around 9 and ate breakfast and then I took them for a short ride around the area. We didn't leave for New York until 12:30 pm.  Made a stop in Peekskill to see their friend Settie, but she wasn't home.  So onto Youkers to John's.  We had to try out Pat's bong and the hash I brought and then it was dinnertime so we bought pizza and wedges. Proceeded from that point on to Manhattan to pick up Roberta and look off her terrace -- she lives on the 27th floor, what a trip!  Went to a coffee house to listen to John's friend -- was okay, sang lots of songs from Jacques Brel and back to Yonkers (Roberta came back with us).   Sunday was gorgeous so we went to the Palisades -- it was a hike to go where John's favorite spots were, but it was easy and very enjoyable.  I went out near the edge and then sat down or crawled on my stomach to look over the edge 500 ft. straight down.  It was beautiful, impressive, peaceful, and quiet.  A fine place to come just to sit and think, read, or maybe write a letter or in a journal.  I took pictures but don't know if they will catch the emotions.  Maybe you will be able to see it -- I would enjoy experiencing it with you.  Went back to Yonkers for dinner, took Roberta back home and then Pat, Linda, and I packed up and left.  Stopped in Peekskill and this time Settie was home.  We didn't 'get to my house until about 2am.  Pat and Linda didn't stay -- just had a cup of coffee and left.

I think I am going to Buffalo this coming weekend with my friend Marc -- he called after Pat and Linda had arrived.  He is going to U.B. Law School and wants to look for an apartment.  Aside from that again I say I should be home, so whenever you come it is okay with me.  I'm glad you have company going to Kenny's wedding -- I would have been glad to go with you -- I hop you enjoy the city.

Did I ever mention to you that the last song on the first side of "Offering" sounds much like Mahavishnu Orchestra?  At that time McLaughlin and Coryell were very close -- had the same guru -- they and their wives spent a lot of time together.  There is an article on Coryell in an old issue of Downbeat.  I have almost all of the issues from the time my subscription started so feel free to poke through them all.

I think I will end this for now.  Take care of yourself.  (Smile!)

July 17, 1973 (Note from Leslie)



Greetings.  I came home yesterday evening and didn't have a chance to write on this before I left New York.  Roberta and I went to the planetarium on Saturday.  The show was "The End of the World".  Wow I really loved it -- but the planetarium needs better seats.  I forgot what it was like because I hadn't been to one in a long time.

Tuesday before leaving, Carol and I went to see "Monsieur Verdoux" -- a Chaplin film.  Strong social comment about a man who worked in a bank for 30 years and then lost his job.  He then becomes a bluebeard to support his wife and child.  At his trial in the final speech he asks the people to think of what he has done and then how many people have died in wars.  "Numbers sanctify".  Very interesting film -- I enjoyed it although it was a heavy.  Take care.

Sunday, July 22, 2012

July 5, 1973 (Letter from Tony)

From the top of the Pine Mountain Ski Jump

Well, it's been awhile, hasn't it?  I'm in Colden, living the good life (i.e., the lazy life).  I decided against going to Colorado and now an interested in going to Warren.

I'll try to set things out in chronological order.  Exams took up my last 2 months in Berkeley.  I did a good deal of studying, Be in the library and only the presence of some friends there with me saved me form total isolation.  Hard times really do bring people closer together and we provided entertainment for each other.  I did OK on the exams.  I won't find out for sure what I got until August.

Our last exam was June 2, an looking back at it, that seems very long ago and very strange.  I never really got to feeling like Berkeley was my home.  My worlds are built around people, and places take on meaning only by my going through experiences there.  Walking across the U.B. campus was exciting because I could think of all the many things that happened there.  I guess this past year was a necessary base-building year both with people and with the location itself.  I certainly hope I can move more actively toward establishing my world out there next fall, it's got a long way to go.

Anyway, I left June 5 in a station wagon with 5 other people and 2 dogs.  It took us 2 1/2 days to get to NYC.  I really enjoyed the trip, I had enough time to sleep and sightsee and even though we went US80 across there were things to see.  Wyoming and a sunset in Nebraska were high points, also seeing green hills with trees growing when we got into Indiana and Illinois.

Dale, Barb, Tony at Lake Spread Eagle

I stayed at my sister's and we did many good and expensive things.  We saw "A Streetcar Named Desire" in Lincoln Center, ate in a fancy restaurant, rode the subways, etc. etc.  I really enjoyed it, my sister is very good at entertaining me when I go visit her.  Of course she enjoys it too, she usually doesn't spend her money so lavishly.

I called Maddy and saw her one day.  She was supposed to play in a tournament and I was going to go watch her.  Unfortunately, the one she had been entered in was held the week before.   So on the way back we were thinking of things to do and we decided to go to Boston.  So, I stayed a few more days in Brooklyn at Rose's, until she got called for a flight to London, and then Maddy and I went up to Boston to see Michael and Liz and Harvey.  It was a good time.  I'll give you the details when I see you.  I then went back to Brooklyn for a few more days and finally after getting a somewhat frantic call from Jim Holmes I came to Buffalo by bus.  I was at this time still planning on going to Colorado with Holmes.  I came to Colden for a day, for Father's day and my mother's birthday.  Then I spent a week working with Holmes to get him ready.  He leads a very complicated life, and he had been working for 4 weeks getting things ended up and was not nearly done.  He's going to be a visiting prof next year at South Carolina and in Australia so he had to finish things in Buffalo.  He had to rent his house, paint it, sell his furniture, pack for the trip, pack for South Carolina, clean up, get his horse ready, rent his horse trailer, fix his truck, etc. etc. etc.  After a week I said I've had it.  It was much too complicated a situation for me.  I had agreed to go on a vacation, not spend half my summer finishing up Holmes' loose ends.  Also, I had reservation about getting along with him for an extended length of time.  He is very domineering and I, although, quite passive, can only take so much.  The deciding factor was Colden.  I hadn't been here much since I went to U.B. and I missed it.  My mother was quite sick this past winter with bronchitis (that was the preliminary diagnosis from her hospital stay in March) I figured it would be a good idea to be around to do the heavy work she normally does.  And finally, I wanted time to visit my friends.

Paul in his Penelec hardhat

While I was in Buffalo, I saw some people and it was good.  One day I was walking down Main St. and Tom Szczesny came riding by on his bike.  It was good to see him.  He's contemplating going to Berkeley in the fall.  Later that day, in Park Edge, I ran into Jeff Greenwald.  They were both nice surprises.

I have been out here for almost a week now and it's quite pleasant.  It's been awhile since I've been as relaxes as I am now, certainly not since last August.

I'm planning a bike trip to Warren Pa. via Lake Chautauqua to see Ralph.  What days do you have off?  Would any particular time be more convenient than the rest?  Could I stay at your house?  Please send answers with your reply letter.

Kenny and Lauren's wedding
Clockwise from lower right
Herb Kleinberger, Tony Szczygiel, Eric Barr, Paul Nelson, Kenny Tuchman

Are you going to Kenny's wedding?  I'm planning on going, it would be nice if we could go there together.

Well, that's enough for now.  Write back soon.  Anytime you fell like coming up, please do.  You have my address here, the phone # is 716-941-3292.  I shall be seeing you soon.  Take care.

Friday, July 20, 2012

June 30, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Greetings dear friend!  This week has been really busy.  Dad and I couldn't finish the taping in time for the whole room to be finished so Mom said okay, no more, we will finish it when Robin goes.  So we painted the floor and moved the furniture back in.  Mom painted the woodwork (it's a mint green that looks good enough to eat and the walls will be the same color) and put u the summer curtains so it looks all of a piece and really nice in spite of the unfinished walls.

Robin and Barbara arrived Wednesday night about 2am.  What can I say, it's really nice seeing him and having him around for awhile.  It has been almost three years since Rob and I have been in the house at the same time.  Barb is great and has been and is really good for Rob because he looks fine, happy, and peaceful.  We were all prepared to like her and now we know how great she is.

Surprise, surprise -- Rob and Barb have asked me to come back to California with them and the family says I can go!  Wow, I'm going to California!  I will ride out with them in Rob's car and fly home probably sometime in August.  I plan to buy film for my camera on Monday and do all my necessary errands such as having a physical to send to Albany so I can register.  More on this later.

Last night Blood Sweat the Tears was at Saratoga with Curtis Mayfield.  I had wanted to see it, but didn't have tickets, so I didn't go.  It was pouring rain as it has everyday and night since Rob and Barb got here and therefore it was no advantageous to sitting on the lawn.  This morning there was a review and I'm glad I didn't go.  BS&T had trouble with the sound system and so that messed them up cause nobody could understand the singer plus they were rather lackluster so said the reviewer.  Curtis Mayfield didn't show at all -- his plane was delayed along the line, but his band was there and went on without him.  For another concert he was late so it sounds as if he is trying for a reputation of reliability.

Thursday I went to the movies with Marc, Bernie, and Doug to see the newest James Bond flick "Live and Let Die".  Title song by Paul and Linda McCartney.  I found parts of the film really funny and enjoyed the chase scenes, but it did have serious flaws that one should realize.  The main flaw was that it was racist and used stereotypes to depict the blacks.  The plot has to do with a new heroin supply and its distribution.  The black "dude" stereotype is used quite a bit and distributing night clubs are called "Fillet of Soul".  There are also some scenes on the island where the poppies being grown showing voodoo ceremonies.  Of course the movie was chauvinist and Bond always get his women.  Some of the gimmicks were incredible such as Bond's watch that could produce a powerful magnetic field that would deflect bullets but the worst was when one of the villains was blown up like a balloon with a compressed air pellet and burst.  It was the first time I had seen a James Bond film in the movies.  Roger Moore played Bond instead of Sean Connery.

Monday 2:July '73 -- Hello again.  A friend of my brother's gave him the biggest piece of hash I have ever seen so he and I smoked some last night.  Barb doesn't smoke because she falls asleep.  It was nice -- very cheerful stuff, but I don't think it was that strong -- I don't know, haven't smoke hash in a long time.

The picnic was fun once we finally left the house and got under the way.  The sun did come out and it was really hot.  I went swimming a couple of times.  There was lots of food, but I didn't eat too much -- trying not to be a pig.  I just love riding on the water in a boat, really relaxing.  There's quite a few sailboats and a couple of canoes, both of which I have never ridden in, and both of which I would like to.  Canoeing looks like such a peaceful way to travel and quiet.  I definitely have to go canoeing sometime.

On the radio I am listening to WGY with Ellen.  It is an enjoyable program.  Oh yes -- you wanted to know if the station was like that all of the time or if it was special program -- well it's a special program on Monday-Friday or Saturday from midnight to 5am.  The rest of the programming is much, much more conservative.

Rob tuned up my motorcycle and adjusted the clutch so she was running really sweet.  So I called my friend Chris and asked her if she wanted to go for a ride.  It was/is a really pleasant night for riding -- not cold, slightly humid, and not windy.  The air felt very soft.  We rode about an hour and a half around various local roads -- I felt like Easy Rider just cruising along.

Today I went to Albany to fill out an application to work part-time in the fall -- I hope I will be able to.  Walking to the library I became excited looking at the people and thinking of the new people I would meet and how it is a new environment to go to school in.  I talked to my advisor and made out a tentative schedule. Pre-registration is July 23-27 and I don't know if I will be back from California for that or not.  Otherwise I register on August 24 and am in the second to last group and get what I can take. I don't' know when I'm coming back from Cal.  And I don't know what is the best to do.

Whew -- I just keep yawning so I'm signing off for now.  Good night, sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite.

Tuesday 3:July '73 -- Hello -- I've been doing some more thinking on California -- the decision to go was easy but my decision not to go was/is hard.  I've told all kinds of people that I was going but anyway why am I not?  Well one of the reasons is/will be going by myself with Rob and Barb.  They will be working during the day so I will be on my own which would be okay for a few days but then I like to have company when I go to see things.  Plus their apartment is small so not much privacy for them or me.  Other big reason is money -- I just don't have the money to spend freely because of no job and my parents are not able to provide at this time and that would be in my mind so with heavy heart, but also with the optimism which says I will get out there sometime, I have decided not to go.

I plan to pre-register on the 23rd, the first day in the morning.  When I talked with my advisor and had made up one schedule but I want to switch it around so that I have no  classes on Monday and Friday -- want to talk to my advisor about how it is having two classes on one day, twice a week.  Class meets only once a week.  More on this later.

Oh -- I forgot to mention that I sold my motorcycle for $750 today!  Wow I thought I would be stuck with it.  This morning I paid my insurance premium and had it inspected and this afternoon this woman who is a friend of one of my mother's friends came by with Rick (my brother's friend) and bought it and took it home.  So I quick called to cancel the insurance and have to turn in my plates.

Will continue later.

Friday 6:July '73 -- Greetings.  I'm going to mail this today so I'm going to finish up.   Yesterday I bought Get Off in Chicago for $1.99 an am very happy to have it in my possession.  Today I want to buy Jack Bruce Songs for a Tailor also $1.99 and Larry Coryell's Offering at the usual price.  I got Gary Burton Quartet Duster out of my library because I saw Coryell's name.  Haven't listened to it yet.  Will discuss in more detail later.  Take care of yourself.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

June 16, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)

Greetings!  Things keep happening that I want to tell you, so I'm going to start writing so they don't get out of hand.  (Right now I'm listening to Ziggy Stardust -- Moonage Daydream).  I'm been playing Tyranny and Mutation by Blue Oyster Cult a lot lately along with Brian Auger's Second Wind.  Will try and get the Coryell album soon so I can hear the sex, but  right at the moment I still have no job and money is not floating around.

I have gone to a couple of concerts.  Last Friday I saw Seals and Crofts at Saratoga.  They were fantastic and played a variety of materials that I wasn't expecting.  They played a jazzy piece with Seals on sax and Crofts on electric piano that was out of this world.  At the end they played hootenanny country & western with Seals playing the fiddle.  Quite a few of the songs from Summer Breeze album were played.  A thoroughly enjoyable concert.

I also saw Pink Floyd on Sunday.  Incredible, I don't' know how to describe it.  The visual effects were fantastic with lot of lights and dry ice -- a gong with a ring of fire around it and one of those multi-faced balls that sparkle when light shines on them and they are turning and just sends out many rays like a giant eye when not turning.  They played the whole first side of Dark Side of the Moon plus other material that I was familiar with, but don't know off which albums or the title.  The sound system was quadraphonic and we were lucky to get seats in the amphitheater.  Not all of what they played was music, but it was all incredible to watch to shut your eyes and be overwhelmed by the sounds.

I just put on the other side of Ziggy Stardust which reminds me, I had a dream in which I was in a huge record library and I was trying to remember all of the records you have mentioned to me so that I could take them out and listen.  The first and only one I picked up was Rio Grande Mud -- the dream ended but I don't remember how.

This Friday I am going to see Allman Bros. with my friend Chris.  I'm really looking forward to it.  Other good people are coming that I would like to see:  America, Beach Boys, Blood Sweat and Tears and some more that I can't remember right now.

The radio station you heard with the woman disc jockey was WGY 810 and the show is Ellen at midnight and she is on from midnight to 5 am all week.  Since you mentioned it and another friend mentioned it, I've been listening and enjoying.  Last Sunday WGY played really nice jazz in the afternoon.  On the whole, though, radio has been very repetitive.  There is a relatively new station WGFM -- rock 99 (affiliated with WGY) which started out very promising but is now playing the same stuff over and over again such as Hocus Pocus and You Can't Always Get What You Want (Rolling Stones).  It gets very tiring to hear the same stuff even if you like it.



Of the jazz people you mentioned the only one I am at all familiar with is Cal Tjader -- Mon has some records with him playing which I haven't heard in awhile, so when I get time I will dig them out, listen, adn make some comments.  Freddy Hubbard is another familiar name, but I have no music to go to the name -- I'm sorry but I don't remember the song you were referring to by him.  I'll try and look up the other names in my old issues of Downbeat to see what I can find.

I'm going to stop for the moment -- more later.



Hi ya.  I'm catching the end of the "American Top 40".  Actually catching isn't the right verb because I've been listening to it from the beginning.  #4 was Billy Preston's "Will it go 'Round in Circles", one of my favorite songs.  Really like dancing to it.

I went to the Allman Bros quite fucked up but it was fun.  Chris and I have been friends since high school -- she's a Scorpio, too.  They were incredible!  (I think that maybe that is the only adjective I know?)  The first band the Marshall Tucker (or Trucker) was really nice -- very pleasant and what a lead in because they played the same type of music.



Allman Bros. just played and played.  People were yelling out requests and the lead guitarists said not to bother because they were going to play everything.  They just about did, it was so good!  All of the songs were long and some were at least 20 minutes.  From the Live at Fillmore East album they played "You Don't Love Me", "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed", and "Whipping Post".  They played a lot from Eat a Peach but I don't know the titles, plus they played a new song.  They played for a good hour, took a regulation set break and were back for at least an hour and a half.  The concert didn't end until about 12:30 am and there were 25,000 people.

In the second half the lead guitarist played straight for three songs, just coming down to a plateau and then taking off again.  Watching the drummers was a real trip because there were two different styles of drumming, but they really played together and just kept everything cooking.

The work on the house continues.  Dad and I are going the taping -- he knows more than me, but we are both amateurs.  Mom painted the woodwork and the room is starting to pick up.  My aunt called and she is in Joliet, Ill and said that Bob called and they had trouble so they probably couldn't' get to Joliet until Monday night, so they won't get here until Wednesday or Thursday.  I'm really getting excited!  That will give us more time to get the house together.

There is some discussion of sleeping arrangements because they are not married but are living together.  I think it will all work out -- the easiest is for them to stay in Nana's room because she has two beds, but anyway....

Last night my friends called and said they were trying to think of something to do, so they would come and pick me up.  This time the total group came to seven (Marc, Dave, Bernie, Laurie, Garry, Doug, and me).  We ended up going to the Super 50 Drive-In so named because it is on rte. 50.  Both pictures were shit but one was better than the other and we all had fun mocking them out.  Perhaps you have seen the titles in the newspaper:  "Bummer" and "The Hitchhikers".

"Bummer" was a bummer.  The story was about groupies and what could happen to them.  The second flick "The Hitchhikers" was better but it had no plot.  It was about a hippy gang (several girls and the male leader) who stuck up people who picked up girls hitching.  A lot of it was funny because of the cliches used.  For instance they wreck the truck one night while having a "wild" party where everybody was really messed up.  Oh yeah after they mugged the victims they left a sign which said Have a nice day.  Oh well so much for an evening of enlightenment.

Monday 25:June '72 -- Yay!  Guess who I got a letter from today!?!  I was hoping I would hear from you soon.  Last night I had a dream about you -- you had come to visit me -- the locale was a conglomeration of here, Buffalo and other places.

I really enjoyed your letter.  I can tell that you feel about the country the same way I do.  I really love it here because the land is beautiful and there are lots of birds singing.  Lately I've been seeing lots of broken eggs -- the only one I can identify is the speckled light blue of a robin's egg.  (I think of my brother Robin everytime I see one.)  We also have squirrels or at least one squirrel living here now plus some pigeons that must be from the city (Schenectady) who liked the country and went back and brought their friends.  I love cities but the country is my home.

I still haven't travelled much, though there is so much that I haven't seen yet.  I really want to see all of the country that the U.S. has.  I really flip out when I think of going overseas and seeing Greece, Rome, the pyramids, Stonehenge, plus the Incan cities in the Andes.  (I hope I got that right -- I always mix then all up.)

I agree with your discussion on drugs.  I don't regret my experiences -- they have brought me a lot and have helped me to overcome some of my inhibitions quicker than I probably would have at a normal state.  In this respect drugs are similar to dreams -- with both my feelings are very intense but I am becoming more able to feel intensely at my normal state.  I also agree with sharpness.  If I first lieten to something new when I'm stoned, I have to listen to it straight to see if I really liked it or not.  I don't think I will stop all drinking and smoking because both are something that I like to do with people I'm close with but the enjoyment, not as a compulsion.  I feel fortunate that for almost all of the things I have experienced I have no regrets.

Earlier this evening my friend Chris came over to visit.  It ws really nice -- I played records for her -- Blue Oyster Cult's Tyranny and Mutation, Beach Boys' Holland, 1st side of Brian Auger's Second Wind, and 1st side of Frank Zappa's Hot Rats.  Now I have on Yes' Fragile.  A lot of her friends are married so she really enjoyed just sitting, listening, and shooting the shit.  You were the first person I had met who really enjoyed that.

Do you know how you are going to live in Pittsburgh?  Are y ou going to be in an apartment or the dorms?  I'm nervous and excited at the same time and I want to do well.  Tomorrow I'm going to Albany to fill out an application to work part time in the fall in the university's library system.  Did I tell you that I also applied at the Saratoga County Library?  I'm closer to the Schenectady library, but I am a resident of Saratoga County so I couldn't work there.  (Tried to apply about 5 years ago at the Schenectady library.)  Also my friend Marc is going to introduce me to a friend of his who is in Albany's school.  I will be able to buy his textbooks if the same ones are used plus a lot of the work is independently interviewing people and Mike (Marc's friend) works in the state library and he know good people to interview.  This is an unexpected lucky break.  I also have to have a physical and send to to SUNYA to finish up my last admission requirement.

Tomorrow I'm going to meet my friend Evelyn for lunch.  She is a friend but also acts like a mother because she has a daughter my age.  I met her two summers ago when I worked in the Schenectady branch of the New York State Employment Service.  She has finally gotten her wish to be transferred from Schenectady to Amsterdam, where she lives.

Did I tell you I got a B in German?  What a nice surprise.  Glad to be finished with that.

Well it is getting late so I'm going to end now and put this in an envelope.  Take care of yourself and write back as soon as you can.

Enclosed is a picture of me taken last summer when I was in Yonkers visiting Vicki.  I'm such a toughie.

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

June 12, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Greetings -- I got your letter today -- I didn't expect to hear from you as soon although I must admit that last night I got these good vibes telling me that I would get a letter form you tomorrow.

This afternoon I've been writing thank-you notes and so have been playing some tunes at the same time: Hot Rates, Blue Oyster Cult (II), Ziggy Stardust, and Brian Auger, and now Fleetwood Mac. Have some money in my pocket but am trying to stay out of record stores.

Did I tell you that Rob (my brother) and Barb are coming east?  Well they are in a couple of weeks or less so as of this writing we have decided to tear the house apart.  A piece of the living room ceiling fell down a couple of days ago so the ceiling and walls are going to be knocked down (the plaster that is), with plasterboard put back for the walls and ceiling tile on the ceiling.  Plus we bought tile red paint for the floors.

I am also working on my room upstairs -- am painting the walls a pretty deep blue and the ceiling gray and the door red -- haven't decided about the rest of the trim.  Right now i have my stereo stet up on a shelf about a half a foot off the floor.

The weather has been amazing today -- hot as hell this morning (as was yesterday) and then a long violent thunder storm -- at one time mothballs were coming from the sky.  Then it stopped and started again and it is raining and lightning now.  A little while ago, lightning struck near the house and the following thunder shook the whole house.

The past weekend I went to Westfield, Mass with my friend Marc to visit friends Kevin and Judy. The weather was really nice for driving.  Bummed around most of the time we were there. Introduced Keven and Marc to Blue Oyster Club.  Heard some new old albums while I was there. The main one I liked was "Elementary, Doctor Watson".  Also heard some of "Birds of Fire". Kevin has also seen Leo Kottke and really likes him.

This coming weekend is going to be a busy one at Saratoga -- I would like to go all three nights, but don't know if that will happen.  Friday is Seals & Crofts, Saturday is Chuck Mangione, and Sunday is Pink Floyd.

Can't think of anything else at this moment.  If you ever get the chance, come to Rexford and I'll show you the sights (plus some that I haven't seen).  The ticket for admission is some of the records you have been talking about that I haven't heard yet.  Oh -- I ate some of the greatest yogurt today -- made with whole milk -- incredibly delicious and cream -- peach melba -- the name was Colombo.  I also bought their honey and wheat germ -- will see how it tastes tomorrow, am also going to buy more peach melba.

That's about it for now -- take care of yourself -- I love you, too and I want to see you again.

Monday, July 16, 2012

June 6, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Greetings.  I'm at home now -- it's strange to be home -- will take a little while for the family and me to adjust to each other.  I'm in my room -- have set up the stereo and that helps a lot.  Are you angry because I came by your house?  Chip and I had been to see Kinzua Dam (after visiting Allegheny Park) and were going to go through Warren to get to Jamestown.  I wasn't sure how you would react if I did come by or if I didn't, so I went by and you weren't home.

I'm listening to Hot Rats by Frank Zappa -- I bought it with graduation money -- really like it, especially "Peaches en Regalia" on the first side.  I also now have a copy of the new Blue Oyster Club album (after playing Pat's every day while in Buffalo).  Really love it -- several good dance numbers and great musicianship through the whole album.  The songs have strange words -- I'm going to send away for the lyrics.  Last night I hard an album my Grover Washington, Jr. - my first exposure and I loved it.  Have to listen to the whole album again but the indications are that you would like it too.  Am listening to Brian Auger's "Second Wind", I bought it for Mom as a Christmas present -- still like it very much.

So far there is no such creature called a summer job available.  The state of New York has eliminated their summer job program this year and that was what I was counting on.  Garbage in the papers, so I'm diddling around the house, running errands, and playing golf with my mother. Yesterday we went out and I got sunburned on my shoulders and back for the first time in my life. It's Buffalo's fault -- every year I got paler than I was the year before. It is still sore today and I don't like it at all.

I still haven't heard from Rutgers, but I have made my decision and I am going to Albany (S.U.N.Y.A.) in the fall.  I have to hand in a health form and they have to receive my transcript to make it official  The main reason is financial -- I can't buy a car and go away to school and I need the car so I will be at home for a couple of years.  I put an ad in the local news paper for tomorrow, Friday, and Saturday for the motorcycle.  I hope I can sell it quickly.

Last night I went to see 2001 with my friends Marc and Bernie.  Really enjoyed it even though it was my third time.  I love the part of the movie dealing with Hal.  The different scales from one spaceship to another really amazes me -- I'd love to see the set where they filmed the movie and the areas they used landscape throughout the picture.

A couple of nights ago I was watching TV and saw a couple of oldies, "The World of Suzy Wong" and "The FBI Story".  It was the first time I had seen Suzy Wong.

Nothing else to say right now so I shall end.  Take care of yourself.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

May 29, 1973 (Letter from Kathy and Gary)



My goodness what a fantastic letter you wrote.  Have to put that with our senior yearbook!! Thanks. Miss knowing where everyone is and what they're doing.  Do plan on dropping Dody a short line today.  I'm catching some sunshine -- beautiful summer day -- 80.  My garden is all seeded.  Now all I need to do is week, watch, and eat (and definitely WATER!!)

At the time we were there you were not working.  Glad you got something you wanted.

Gary's been busy keeping the bikes and vehicles in running order.  He's got plans for enclosing the back patio for bike storage and trying to get land for a business.  I'm busy with the usual house things plus the yard and garden.  I'm working 3 1/2 days (cleaning teeth naturally -- prophy's) and really enjoying the extra time at home.  We go to the mountains most weekends..  Rick and Linda Dies are flying out here July 29th-Aug 7th.  Yellowstone is among our plans.

Knew Kaye Gorenflo was engaged but thought she was going to wait for a summer wedding. Knew Sue's father died.  My mother always passes the deaths along but little else.
Since I read your letter to Gary he was confused over Marty and Marti for awhile.

Would appreciate any addresses you have (Nancy Rush, Kaye Gorenflo -- had here hers but probably different since she got married).

Gary and I are just really getting to know each other after being married 2 years.  Our trip home really bought us closer.

To try and beat the meat prices we bought a freezer and half a beef.  Now we can't afford to eat anything but the meat and maybe the freezer!!

If we hadn't made the trip home in February then we would like to have made plans for the reunion, but that isn't possible now so we'll have to make plans for the 10 year reunion.  My brother-in-law's 10 year high school reunion is this summer so my sister and he will be making the trip from Colorado.  We usually see them 2 times a year.  They're about 1 1/2 days from us (over high mountains that make winter travel unpredictable).

Whew -- beginning to roast out here.

Have taken more and more to do my own thing -- making almost all our own grain products (bread, rolls, Eng muffins, etc.) and with the freezer really plan on filling up on our own fresh fruit and vegetables and forget about canned stuff.  It's really a challenge -- Dumb, Oh well!!  It's great living away from everyone that knew how terrible you were when you were younger.  Have really made some great new friends and strange as myself -- but we both miss the old.  Not many people seem to write anymore.

Time to turn over.

Good luck this summer and be sure to keep in touch.  We'll be here.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

May 14, 1973 (Letter from Tony)



I'm trying to work out a standardized letter opening, apologizing for not having written sooner.  Well, I haven't got it down, and I've written a few, trying to catch up for my laxness for most of this semester.

So what's new, you may ask.  Not much I would reply.  I'm into my finals stretch run.  Today was my last day of classes, my 1st year of law school is almost over.   No more classes.  It's really pretty exciting.  I now have to apply your two watchwords, patience and discipline to the utmost.  I decided about a month ago I had to start really working and I can say pretty proudly that I have done so.  Now, if I can keep it up, at a high level of intensity, for the next 3 weeks., I shall be satisfied and probably pretty knowledgeable.  This is only the second time I've ever been in a position that I wanted to put forth an extended effort, the first time being when I was working at Sunshine House, trying to get a house for us.  And this time it's much more intensive and I have to be much more self-motivated.  My somewhat lackadaisical philosophy on life has not had to respond with a concerted effort before and I must admit there were some transitional pains, but then I guess these must accompany most changes.  Life, and the way of living it are as one chooses, is based very much on how much of that pain a person wants to go through, how much he thinks the results are worth.

I've managed to keep some form of sanity by doing enough things outside of law school.  I've been to a number of the parks around here, been going to some concerts, most classical music concerts, I've gone to two major league baseball games and that's about it, at least since spring break.

My sister Rose, who was out here a week before spring break, is now an airline stewardess stationed in N.Y. flying TWA International flights.  While she was out her ewe traveled all over.  We had a rented car, and used it.  We managed to get to Yosemite, and stayed overnight, it snowed about 6 inches, we saw a bear that was 20 feet away, and in general were very much impressed by the place.  It's just magnificent.

Both of these vacation were very welcome, about that time I was into my mid-semester slump and was feeling pretty depressed.  My reaction to all the changes I've encountered out here hasn't been very good I really was bothered by many things, I would get depressed, lose confidence and patience, etc.  Coming from my very comfortable life in Buffalo, I wasn't prepared to have to fend for myself and my laziness added to the tendency to just sort of drift along the path of least resistance.  I now feel more in control, I just hope I can keep it together though finals.

This summer I'm going to travel to Colorado with Jim Holmes, my old econ professor at UB, and go horse back riding in the mountains, then move on to the mountains of Northern California for some more sigh-seeing, and we might possibly make it up to Alaska.  The trip sounds exciting, the only problem is that Holmes at times is somewhat overbearing and that I will have to put up with.

It certainly is good to hear of your good fortune.  Things certainly are moving along nicely.  My parents and I went down to the Kinzua Dam once, it's in a great location.  Despite all the beauty and breathtaking areas around here, my favorite area still is western N.Y. and northern Pa.  The trees, hills, greenness and freshness are what I grew up with and I've seen nothing like it anywhere out here, and I do miss it.  Well, I've come to the end of this letter, take care.  I'll be going back to Buffalo shortly after June 2, and we'll start our trip from there.  Hope to see you on the way out.

May 10, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Greetings.  I started this yesterday and decided to finish it while listening to Stephen Stills Manassas.  (I think that is the right spelling -- I'm too lazy to go and look at the album cover.)  I borrowed it from my housemate Pat.  I think I told you about him.  He and Steve moved in when Carol and George moved out last semester.  I got him hooked on Blue Oyster Cult, and then on Fleetwood Mac.  He ended up buying his own copy of Future Games.  I went to the music room, they didn't have Batdorf and Rodney's Off the Shelf.  Would you bring that when you come?



Hello again.  Took time off to watch the Knicks vs. the Lakers.  What a good game.  Did you see the Dunwich Horror Monday night?  I didn't watch it on Monday, but I had seen it before.  What a good horror story -- based on a story by H. P. Lovecraft.  Yesterday I went to see "Man with the X-Ray Eyes" starring Ray Milland.  The dialogue was really bad but the plot line is okay.  In the end his eyes each become a solid black pupil and they receive so much light (are sensitive to it) that Milland no longer knows darkness.  He ends up wandering to a church revival group and the preacher tells him -- if thin eye offend thee, pluck it out -- which he does and that is the end of the movie.  Tomorrow I'm going to see Deliverance, finally.  Hope I enjoy it.  It is getting late so I am going to end here.  I'm really sorry that you could not come this weekend but I will be very glad to see you whenever you can come.  Take care of yourself . Hope work goes okay.


Tuesday, July 10, 2012

May 1, 1973 (Letter from Renee)



I received your letter yesterday and, as usual, was delighted to hear form you once again.  I should have taken the initiative to write to you sooner but I've sort of been up to my ears in work with the close of the school year at hand.  (I also had to wait till Morrey installed a new ribbon in the old typewriter since the old one was about shot!)  Glad to hear you're working -- sorry to hear you're not enjoying it much.  These days one has to be thankful to just have a paying job -- but I understand very well how miserable and frustrating it is to feel stifled and uncreative in a job -- I went that route before I started teaching.  So very glad to hear that you are going to grad school in the fall.  I envy you since I really want to go back myself and pick up all the courses I never could fit in which would assist me greatly in my present capacity.  I am planning on going back one of these days but I'd prefer to get my masters in one lump of time rather than in summer or at night.  Another great thing about your being in Pittsburgh is the fact that it is a simple 3 hr freeway ride from Pitt to Columbus and I'm hoping that you'll take advantage of that fact, and of the Prayzer hospitality and come for a visit once3 in awhile.  We absolutely adore our new place and it is much like having a house and Morrey and I are really enjoying it.

Getting rather domestic -- we finally purchased my "longed for" washer and dryer and I no longer have to make that awful trek to the laundry every Sunday which really irks me -- although Morrey and I have been very democratic and we take turns every other Sunday.  (women's lib, ha,ha!)  Gee Paul, I really do miss you (believe it or not) cause it seems like a year and a millenium since I had a chance to sit down with someone I could really talk intelligently with.  Sometimes I kind of yearn for the old days when we had time to sit around and "shoot the shit" so to speak.  Between my job, and our married life it's hard sometimes to sit down and really talk about anything other than "what we're doing tomorrow, and what we've got to do next week".

School is really getting to me -- it's that time of year again.  The kids are antsy and I am equally as antsy.  There are many facets of my job that can be extremely frustrating at times -- and lately I've had more of those times than I'd like.  I do very much enjoy my teaching and I feel as though I'm improving and getting somewhere,m but sometimes I feel really bogged down my it all and the good points seem far outweighed by the bad.  I've learned a lot this year and hope that the experience will benefit me next year -- ich -- next year -- I hate to think of it.  All I can think of at the moment is that long, peaceful, and kidless summer which lies ahead like a distant oasis in which I seek refuge!  (How's that for seeming literary?)

I am not planning on doing a darn thing constructive this summer.  It's back to being a good housewife and all that jazz -- which I can really enjoy as long as I know it lasts only 3 months!  Really, though, I'm planning on painting our basement, decorating it and the rest of the house for that matter!  I've got loads to do to keep me busy -- and I plan to really put a good deal of time just catching up with my reading.  I'm reading Eleanor and Franklin right now which is a good book but rather laborious reading.  I guess my tastes in reading run along the non-fiction, biography types.  I just finished reading My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok -- which is excellent and I really enjoyed it.  Morrey and I went to see "Soylent Green" over the weekend and I have never been so upset by a flick in my life.   It is so very realistic that it horrifies me to think about it -- but it is a must for you to see.

Morrey and I plan to spend a good deal of our vacation (the first two weeks in July) at the cottage in Warren and I'm hoping we get together for a few visits and "campfire chats", -- oops that should read "fireside"!  My parents are moving to an apartment in my grandfather's house in Jackson Street sometime this month.  It's the second house from the corner on Jackson right off of Conewango.  I think my mother will be much happier there and my father is fixing it up pretty nicely.  I'm sure that my dad would be more than glad to see you Paul if you ever have the desire to ride out to the cottage for awhile.  He's already opened the cottage for the summer and I know that you'd be a welcome sight to my dad since the days get pretty long and lonely for him.  Morrey and I will be home for Memorial Day weekend at the end of this month -- so please feel free to drop by the cottage then -- or call if you can't come.  The more the merrier as I've always said.

Well it's ten o'clock and I turn into a mean bitch (not a fairy princess) if I don't get enough sleep -- especially when I have to face those kids so early in the morning.  Sometimes they're enough to give a person "morning sickness" -- Don't worry I'm not pregnant!!

Please take care and be well Paul and write again soon when you can.  Sorry about the terrible, awful typing but I'm rushing to get everything said and therefore I'm careless with the way I type it out.  As long as you can read and comprehend, I won't worry about the grammatics.


Monday, July 9, 2012

March 31, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Greetings.  Have gotten back from vacation and am trying to settle down.  Things have been a little strange with one of the new roommates, but that is a whole long story and easier to tell when talking.  Aside from that, I am fine and I had a good vacation -- I was in New York City for a week.

The date for the Folk Festival has been announced and it is May 11-13.  I don't know who is coming or what the tickets are.  They go on sale Monday April 2nd.  I'll try and find out more of what's going on.

So you are welcome to come up any weekend between no and when except for April 26th-30th because I will be home.  On April 30th I have a 1pm appointment to speak with Prof Jussim at Simmons College.  Ugh.  It took me a long time to finally call and make the appointment.  My applications are finally completed for Rutgers, Univ of Denver, and Albany.  I don't know if I have applied too late or not.  Anyway not much use in worrhying about it because what's done is done.

Have been hearing some "new" music lately, meaning some of it is new and some of it is new to me.  Bought Fleetwood Mac "Future Games" and have been playing it to death.  Heard Chick Corea/Return to Forever "Light as a Feather" more along "Caravanserai" lines -- heard one side and have ordered it from the record coop.  Heard one side of the Beach Boys "Holland" fantastic I could't believe it was the Beach Boys.  One side of "Hot Rats" by Frank Zappa.  The songs I've heard but never knew where they came from.  One side of a Bonnie Raitt album that was really good.  I heard the last three stoned so will have to see how they are when I am straight.

I've started reading Irving Stone's Passions of the Mind and aside from the tons of details, I like it.  Trying to avoid reading that and not doing anything else.

I guess that's the most of it for now.  How are things with you?  I hope all is well.  Write or call and let me know.  Whoever answers will say that I am out or something else equally original.  Then you hang up and call dialing directly and I will be able to activate the box, knowing that the next time the phone rings it will be you.

Take care of yourself.  Enjoy the sun when it appears.

Sunday, July 8, 2012

March 9, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Greetings.  Here are the goodies you wanted plus an article from today's Spectrum on David Bowie.  Thank you for calling me -- it was very good to hear your voice.  Not much of anything has happened since I last talked to you.  I've just spent the evening in doing some cleaning -- my room and the bathroom plus a quick sweep through the kitchen.  Getting ready to go home tomorrow -- got a ride with my housemate John.  Got back my test in German today -- my translating was terrible as usual -- the teacher has decided to let us use this test as a guideline so it is not going towards our final grade. As he very nicely said -- I'm not going to be the one to execute you.

Hello again -- I've been on the phone -- first talking with Carol and then with my brother Rob.  What a conversation -- he was really bombed.  I haven't talked to him in a long time so it was really good -- we talked bout each other's good things and bad things and experiences.   He's really cool.

Oh -- just remembered, last night I went to hear Gwendolyn Brooks read her poetry in the Fillmore Room.  She was really good.

It's kinda late so I'm going to sign off -- I don't really have anything to say except babbling.  Take care of yourself.

P.S.  I saw the movie -- the T.A.M.I. Show -- it was great.  I really like Lesley Gore and the Supremes.

Saturday, July 7, 2012

March 9, 1973 (Note from Dr. Charles Bernheimer)


I sent a carbon copy of my letttly to Pitt and posted the original to the U.B. Placement Bureau.

Your choice surprises me a bit -- such a staid and sedentary kind of job, I can't quite imagine you being a librarian (but, of course, I didn't say this in my letter which is ful  Did you ever take the GRE's?

March 6, 1973 (Letter from Renee)



Many thanks for your delightful and informative letter.  It sure was nice to be greeted by a letter rather than bills, bills, and more bills.

Morrey and I have moved our place of residence to a beautiful half-double with a real honest to goodness basement and garage.

Our new place is 5 minutes from where I teach.  I used to have to travel 30-40 minutes to get home at night.  We're really pleased with our new place -- it's very private and residential -- and, as usual, we're very happy.  We've been extremely busy lately and between moving and teaching I don't know which end is up, to tell the truth.  On March 16th I'll start a 1week spring vacation and I can hardly wait.  I'm not planning on coming to Warren cause I've got loads to do here -- like clean toilets and all that shit -- ha ha!

Life has been so hectic lately that I haven't had any chance to just sit back and reflect.  Haven't sat down to read a good book in ages.

My parents are coming out this weekend to visit.  They sold the building they're in and they'll be moving out of it by the 1st of August.  Things are rather indefinite with them now but they'll definitely stay in Warren although my dad will be retired.

Please feel free to come out and visit us anytime you have a few days to spare.  We're got plenty of room and you're always welcome.  Sorry this letter is so short -- but I'm in the middle of 15 different things -- as usual.  Will try to write again soon.  Please write to us.  Be well and take care.

Friday, July 6, 2012

March 4, 1973 (Letter from Van)



We were really glad to hear from you!  You had us surprised for a day or so, but we knew we would eventually hear from you.  At first we had the impression that possibly you had decided to go further north for employment.  But with no sign of your whereabouts at hand the thought of you returning est crossed our thoughts.  We couldn't figure why you would leave your sandals and sleeping bag.  But we'll keep your sleeping bag, only until we cross paths again.

We agree 100% of your non-apologetic mood toward the Cottage!  I couldn't believe that you'd take the easy way out and return to the Cottage.  I knew it wouldn't last.  I'm sure that once my time comes to terminate that job it won't cross my mind to make any return engagements there.  I'm glad you have found such a well-paying job so soon.

I still regret to say that my car and I are not on understanding terms.  But one day we will come to know each other.  It's only a matter of time and patience.

Well Paul, all that I have to say now is that you sure missed a few pleasant sunny days, knowing that cold wintry days still prevail there.

I hope your paths of existence there are full of joy and happiness.  Take care yourself also Paul and write when you can.  "Though you have departed, still a part of you lingers."

By the way, Art Frink is still is wondering whatever happened to Paul Nelson, and I guess he'll keep right on wondering!




Thursday, July 5, 2012

February 26, 1973 (Letter from Kenny)



Where do I begin?  How do you tall about a roommate who loved books, and Gleason's, and sleeping and me?  Alas, poor Nelson, I knew him, Horatio.

In any event, here I am.  I know I haven't written and I know you're probably pissed as hell, witnessed by the fact that you write Herb before me and your letters are un-Nelson like short; but please forgive me, I've lost all touch with reality.  How the fuck are you?  It sounds like  you really know what you're doing in wanting to go to grad school, but your exit from the West Coast was to say the least surprising.  I probably will be speaking with you shortly, within the week, so don't be too surprised to hear from me.  How is Tony?  I haven't heard from him at all and when you write him perhaps you could give him my address to write because he always was smarter than me an could study less.

To recap my life for the past 2-3 months is not too difficult.  I have been working and worrying myself to death.  I had finals from Jan 18-22 (3 of them) and for about 2 weeks before that I couldn't eat or sleep and lost about 10 lbs and ended up weighing 179, which for me is outrageous.  They were more than words can describe yet they showed me how stupid exams are because they don't test anything.  You get an hour on a question, which is just a bunch of facts and you're supposed to pick out the issues and write about them, so often you know the stuff but don't see it and it is presumed you never knew nit, it's really fucked up.  Anyhow, my Xmas vacation of 2 1/2 weeks was spent in the library preparing for them so I have nothing to report on that score.  After exams they were nice enough to give us 6 whole days off, so I went to Buffalo and saw Lauren.  It was terrific, I never realized how nice old UB would be until you go somewhere and break you hump only to return and see kids hanging out in Norton again. You had exited some weeks previous, I saw Maddy and I guess I didn't miss Tony by a whole lot either.  I saw Chris for the 1st time in 6-7 months and I'm glad to report that some things in the world will always remain as they are; although I must admit it was good seeing him and talking to him.  Now it's back to work and more of it because the next 2 weeks are to be the worst yet because I have some legal research paper to do.  Enough about that.

What are you plans for the coming months?  Will you be here over the summer?  Perhaps Herb and I will come to Warren sometime in June or so.  Herb by the way is doing fine, I don't see him often but talk to him quite a bit.  He's seeing some local girl and he's pretty happy and no longer a virgin.  (I hate to break it to you this way, big guy.)  I saw Eric a few weeks ago and he is just as young and ridiculous as ever, worrying about how his life was washed up at 20 because he hated his job.  I told him to quit (it had never occurred to him) and he did and now is somewhat happier at a new place.

How long were you in Calif before you decided to leave?  Did you ever get to New Orleans like you wanted to?  It's funny I was going to call you tonight (Sunday) but all of a sudden I realized that not only was it late (after 12) but that it was SUNDAY NIGHT and I didn't want the phone to disturb anyone!  Anyhow, I got very nostalgic while in Buffalo and realized how happy I was there and how few things I actually had to worry about, though at the time, it seemed insurmountable; so now my motto is "this too shall pass" and I keep saying it to myself constantly.  I haven't listened to the radio in ages so I know of no new songs and a couple weeks ago I went home for the weekend and saw "Heartbreak Kid" which was the first movie I had seen since August.  It was pretty good but got me depressed thinking about getting married, which should be quite a change to say the least.  Anyhow before I start rambling on, it is now 1:00 and I have to get up early tomorrow, so let me stop here and continue when I speak to you soon.  Write and let me know what night is best to call.

Monday, July 2, 2012

February 12, 1973 (Letter from Leslie)



Greetings.  Things are going okay with me -- a few ups and downs but up right now especially after coming home and finding your letter.

Quite a bit has happened and I don't know where to start, so I guess I'll just start rambling and see what happens.  Christmas vacation was okay, I didn't do anything at all -- I just vegetated and didn't see hardly anybody and wasn't overly worried about it.  The realization that I would no longer be living with Carol  and that this whole part of my life was coming to an end put me into a state of shock.  I really understand what you were talking about last semester with your being here, but not the people you associate Buffalo with.

It's nice being back in the apartment, even so.  Right now I am tired of living with my parents and look forward to going away to school and eventually supporting myself.  (Right now I have Blue Oyster Cult playing -- really like the album so I had to buy it for myself.)  Classes are okay -- I'm registered for German 2145, Woman in Contemporary Society, and am still trying to get Pop Radio.  I've been attending that class, taught by Jim Santella, but haven't been recognized by SARA yet.  So I'm taking 12 credits and have an incomplete to make up (ick!).

I've been doing quite a bit of smoking -- at least twice a weekend for the last 3 weekends.  It is escapism and I am enjoying it, but I'm also having the high carry over into the next day so I should start disciplining myself.

I got back by GRE scores -- I'm not very happy, they are kind mediocre, but there is nothing I can do about it.  I received 500 on the verbal and 570 on the quantitative.  Enclosed is a list of testing centers in Pennsylvania.

Just talked to my mom on the phone -- she's going to NYC tomorrow and then she and Aunt Olga are going to Majorca (off the coast of Spain) on the 14th for an eight day adventure.  Hope she has a good time.  Dad is not very happy about it, but he will survive.

I've been playing a lot of basketball -- I'm not a starter, but that is a fact of life.  I only got upset once at not playing in a game at all last Saturday and have since re-arranged my head so that will not happen again (my being upset).  February is basketball month and most of my evenings have been busy and three Saturdays in a row have B.B.  Every once in awhile it h its me that this is my last season andn that soon I will be a college graduate.

I wrote down a whole list of movies that I have seen that I wanted to mention to you -- so here they are by title with no comments:  Child's Play, Jules and Jim, Gimme Shelter, Diary of a Mad Housewife, Five Easy Pieces, The Virgin and the Gypsy, The Best of Everything.

In regards to library science I am applying to 4 schools -- none of them have everything at this time.  The schools are Rutgers University in New Brunswick, Simmons College, University of Denver, and Albany State.  Wish I had a secretary.

I'm going to end now -- there's all kinds of little things but I can't remember them all.  Plus I should be getting some sleep.  I went to find you a happy Valentine's day card tonight but was not successful.  I guess the day will be past when you get this letter, but I have thought of you and hope you have a very good day.  I am very glad to hear from you and I look forward to seeing you again.  Do you wanna dance?  Take care of yourself -- good luck on your job.

P.S.  Wow this letter is a skeleton compared to all of the things that have been happening, but it is a start.  I'm sorry California didn't work out the way you had planned but things have a away of working themselves out -- hopefully always for the good.

Also enclosed is a smile for you from me -- please take care!