1962 STORIES AND TIMELINE of MGCC

 *My sincere thanks to the Dodson Museum, Orrick Sparlin collection, for sharing these black and white photos of activities at the Miami Golf and Country Club.

62.4.24  Stapp is No.1 in Muskogee Golf 

John F. Stapp of the Miami Country club was the No. 1 shooter Monday in the PGA's sectional pro-amateur tournament at the Muskogee Country club for entries from Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas,

Stapp carded a two-under par 68 on the muddy course following rain of nearly two inches. Next best score was a 73 by a Wichita pro.

Amateur honors went to Dr.W.D. Jackson of Miami, who played in the local foursome that included amateurs G.R. White and Pat Campbell.

Stapp's shooting in combination with Jackson resulted in a low pro-am score of 63. The second low-net was also won by Stapp and G.R. White with a 64. The 67 with Campbell was fourth lowest.

 

  62.4.25  "Miami Girls State Golf Champions"

For the second straight year, Miami high school girls have won the 27 hole State Oklahoma High School Tournament. The four-ball team champions are Letty Stapp 55-53-46=155; Diana Oliver, 53-48-54=155; Carole Luttrell, 58-54-54=166; Pam Smallwood, 60-59-57=176. Sherry Taylor of N.E. High School OKC was the tourney medalist with 47-46-40=133. Miami's Stapp and Oliver placed second and third.   

Miss Oliver was the only member of the Miami foursome that swept medalist, two-ball and four-ball honors last year. Other members of that team were Suzanne Stephenson, Phyllis Propper, and Gaye Phillips.  Mrs. Johnie Stapp was in charge of the girls team.

Scores by Miami War Dogs for the two days 54 hole tourney were Phil Ulmer 285;

Charles Dawson 268; Jim Williams 289; and Billy Oliver 286. The team did not place this year. Coach Bill Watkins was in charge of the boys team. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

62.6.1  "Winners Named in Golf Event"

Winners in Scotch foursome golf competition at the Miami Country club on Memorial Day were: Low net--Don Curlee and Pat Horner, First; Bill Carter and Norma Jackson, Second; Bill Oliver and Melba Cordell, third

Low Gross: Corbin Shouse and Helen Jones, first;  Phillip Temple and Leaetta Jackson, second; Ted Vernon and Florence Dawson, third.

Low Putts: Harry Whitaker and Hattie Wall, first; Dick Varley and Lois Cowles, second; Tom Cordell and Claire Oliver, third 

There were 54  contestants in the holiday meet.  

62.6.20 "Junior Girls to Compete in Tournament Here Friday"

Eighty girls have entered the third annual Miami Junior Girls Invitational. Last year's tournament drew 67 contestants, with Kay Van Valkenburgh of Tulsa the trophy winner in the championship fight. The winner of the first meet in 1960 was Jeannie Thompson. She will be here this year in the adult capacity of scorer. 

One of the favorites in the championship fight is Donna Fox of Clinton, Missouri. While residing at Seneca last year, she won runner-up honors in the championship.

Susan Basolo of Muskogee, who reached the semi-finals last week in the women's state amateur tournament in Tulsa, should be one of the strongest contenders here. Another top contender from Tulsa is Suzie Friels. Deanna Jackson of Coffeyville served notice when she carded a 46 in the nine-hole practice round here Wednesday. 

Four Miami girls who won the State High School girls team championships in April with compete. They are Letty Stapp, Diana Oliver, Carole Luttrell, and Pam Smallwood. Another Miami girl due to gain a berth in the championship flight is C.Ann Richards. 

The tournament is sponsored by the Miami Ladies Golf Association. Co-chairmen of the meet are Mrs. Johnie Stapp and Mrs. Woodrow Painter. 

Heading the Tulsa delegation of 49 girls is Mrs. Mabel Hotz. They will arrive by chartered bus. Mrs. Hotz, wife of Dr. Carl Hotz, is heading the State Junior Girls golf program for the 13th straight year. She will yield the leadership at the conclusion of the July 10-13 tournament at Tulsa's Southern Hills and Meadowbrook clubs.  Adult leaders of the Miami tournament said they were inspired by Mrs. Hotz to start the successful local meet. 

Entries by other cities follow: Ann Travis, Bartlesville, Marilyn Mabry and Louise Stokell, Okmulgee; Susan and Nancy Basolo, Muskogee. Miami entries: C.Ann Richards, Karen Jeffries, Jonya Stapp, Patsy Riddling, Kathy Gilmore, June Reniker, Susan Russell, Barbara Bomford, Lee Dell Snyder, Nancy Cordell, Jenee Kenreigh, Janie Berentz, Carole Luttrell, Cathy Olson, Letty Stapp, Sally Meyer, Dianna Oliver, Pam Smallwood, Carole Searle, Clara Searle, and Gayla Dale.

 

 Susan Russell 

I vividly recall young Ellen Robinson as a scorer, smoking and drinking a coke and wearing a very cute pair of  short shorts. Mothers complained about how she looked and the example it set for others. 

In essence, I thought that they were just downright jealous biddies, and I, too, at age 16 even recognized that I'd never be that cute. Women wouldn't look at me like that. 

**PERSONAL NOTE: Often times, in the humid heat of the summer, when I bend over and pull weeds from my garden,  I recall pulling grab grass at the country club. In the late 50's and early 60's my dad, and board of officers would host one or two "Crab Grass Picking Parties" at the club during the year.  My most vivid memory was on No.2, one year, when the Sam Fullerton family arrived and sat down on their row with mats, towels, and tools. Mother, dad, Jonya and I also worked that hole. Dad and his team marked off rows on every green and families were assigned a green and could pick any row. In the evening we would all gather, go to our greens, and pick crab grass together.  Most tools were simply pocket knives or pairing knives. The men made sure to show their wives and kids how to dig in around the grass and pull.  

I remember how much I admired Ruth Fullerton. Her face always clean and never sweaty like mine, and her clothes stiffly ironed and proper. That evening she sat down on her towel, tucked her skirt up under her side bottom, leaned over and began to dig and pull. Her grace and beauty left a smiling heartfelt memory with this child. Later, when I was older, she enjoyed playing golf with me, usually just the two of us. She and Florence Dawson were the only two women to play with a full set of "woods" long before we had rescue clubs or hybrids.   

62.7.1 "Girls From Three States Share Top Honors"

Donna Fox, 16, who will be a junior next fall in Tipton, Mo captured top honors Friday in the Third Annual Girls Invitational Tourney. She carded 82, the lowest medal score in three years. Runner-up honors went to Deanna Jackson with an 86 and Susan Basolo, 14 year old from Muskogee with an 89. Miami's C.Ann Richards finished fourth with 94. 

Miamian's placing in the tourney were: Lee Dell Snyder putting in Class B; Barbara Bomford putting in Class C. Sally Meyer driving in Class D. Karen Jeffries Pee Wee division. 

The Miami Ladies Golf Association, sponsor of the tournament, voted to designate
the fourth annual meet next year as the "Mabel Hotz Miami Invitational" Mrs. Hotz had headed the state junior golf program the past 13 years and will retire from the presidency at the conclusion of the July 10-13 state Junior at Southern Hills.

62.7.2  "Fireworks Shows Are Set"

Miami will have "double feature" Independence Day firework shows Wednesday night. The first will be at the MCC just after dark about 8 o'clock. A professional crew will shift from the Country club to the Fairgrounds for the Miami American Legion's fireworks spectacular between 9 and 9:30 

The Legion program at the Fairgrounds will open at 8:30 and will include a Boy Scout flag ceremony and special music preceding the fireworks display. It is free to the public.

62.7.20 "Junior Boys Golf Meet Here Today"

Traffic on the nine-hole course of the Miami Country club was near an all-time high today with 133 boys ages 7-17, competing in the second annual one-day Miami Junior Boys Invitational golf tournament, sponsored by the Miami Ladies Golf Association in co-operation with Johnie Stapp, club pro.

Stapp expressed regret today that it was necessary to turn down more than 40 late applicants during the week. Contestants are here from Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma

One of the favorites for top honors in the championship flight is Dick Orr of Okmulgee, runner-up to champion Mike Norman of Muskogee last year. Among entry rating support in the title race is L.C. Sikes of Fayetteville, Arkansas. His brother Dick Sikes of Springdale, Arkansas won last week's USGA Public Links tournament at Buffalo, NY.

Winners last year other than championship shooters were: President's flight--Mike Scimeca, Caney, Kansas and Mike Bennett, Wichita; A flight--Tom Weeks of Bartlesville and Brad Smallwood, Miami; B flight--John Huron of Ponca City; C flight--Paul Kempa, Okmulgee, and Mike Adkisson, Wichita, and pee-wee flight--Time Schofield and Pat Callahan of Miami.

 

Junior Golfers are Clara Searle, Kathy Gilmore, and Carol Searle

62.7.11 "Miamians in Meet"

Letty Stapp led Miami's delegation in the State Girls Championship but missed the championship flight by just one stroke (that was the story of my life as a junior player). Her 101 was best in the first flight. She was paired today against Ann Masterson, 104 of OKC. C.Ann Richards of Miami, 105 will meet Peggy Gentry, OKC with a 103 in the first flight. 

Miamians in the other flights are:  Second flight Janie Berenz vs Rinda Kopptiz,of Alva; Third flight Diana Oliver vs Karen Pappen, Ponca City; Jenee Kenreigh vs Jan Goss of Tulsa; Pam Smallwood  vs Jane Snodgrass of OKC. 

Karen Jeffries of Miami was NO. 1 scorer among the pee-wees and top the A flight list with 41 for five holes. Also in A flight are Jonya Stapp, Clara Searle, Carol Searle. 

62.7.13  "Miamians in Finals at State Tournament"

Two Miami girls played in today's finals of the Junior Girls State Golf Championsip at Tulsa, and Karen Jeffries won the pee-wee flight. 

C.Ann Richards of Miami played Susan Willis today for First Flight championship. Diana Oliver of Miami played against Ann Sheets of Muskogee for the third flight trophy. 

In other results Miamians Letty Stapp lost to Suzanne Willis; Janie Berentz lost to Katherine McGraw; Jenee Kenreigh lost to Terry Yetman; Pam Smallwood lost to Becky Cooley.

In the pee-wee division, Clara Searle scored a 60-62-65=187 in A Flight and Carol Searle of Be flight finished with 58-52-56=166. 

62.7.15  "Annual Junior Boys Invitational Golf Tournament"

 A new champion will be crowned this year as Mike Norman, of Muskogee last year's champion, has aged out. The entry list has been filled with a total of 121 including 23 from Springfield, 25 from Bartlesville Sunset, 5 from Bartlesville Hillcrest, 2 from Pryor, 10 from Neosho, 15 from Fayetteville, 3 from Wichita, 6 from Okmulgee, and 32 Miamians. Last year's tournament had 77 entries. 

Co-chairs are Mrs. Woodrow Painter and Mrs. Johnie Stapp. Other members of the committee are Mrs. John Scholfield, Mrs. John F. Robinson, Mrs. Tom Cordell, Mrs. Al White, and Mrs. Vernon Sapp. Tournament assignments follow: Pat Campbell and Stapp, trophy awards; Stapp rules and pairings; starters Campbell and Bill Hirsch; scoring posters, Mrs. Bert Wall, Mrs. Claude Jones, and Mrs. John F. Robinson. 

Other positions include: Jim Smallwood driving contest; Mrs. Harry Gilmore, Mrs. Bill Hirsch and Mrs. John Burford food; Mrs. W.D. Jackson, handicaps; Mrs. Henry Garwood scorers; Mrs. Scholfield, Mrs. Al White, Mrs. Tom Cordell and Mrs. John Robinson registration; Mrs. Clancy Pollock, entertainment in case of rains; Sally Meyer and Lee Dell Snyder, ball spotters, Mrs. Charles Trussler, Mrs. George Russell, and Mrs. John Meyer, club house. 

62.7.15  "Ladies Golf Notes"

Winners in competition of the past week for the Ladies Golf association were Claire Oliver, Championship, Millie Carter, Class A; Helen Jo Painter and Lottie Mae Russell in Flight B; and Sue Barnes in C. 

NOTE: This is the first time I have seen the ladies addressed by their first names.

Pairings for next Wednesday follow: 

Hattie Wall, Beverly Jackson, and Helen Jo Painter; Yvonne Temple, Eva Williams, and Pat Horner; Mary Varley, Claire Oliver and Barbara Shouse; Faye Berentz, Evelyn Hatfield, Florence Dawson and Beverly Smith.

Hattie White, Helen Moore, and Lois Cowles; Clara Barton, Ollie Longacre, Erin Wojcik; Sue Mason, Lottie Mae Russell, and Dottie Ridling; Carol Pollock, Louise Curlee, and Gladys Wetzel.

Ethel Carselowery, Helen Stapp, and Melba Cordell; Norma Lou Jackson, Inez Buzzard, Nancy Johnson; Elizabeth Hansford, Virginia Sapp and Glenna Vernon; Irne White, Jessie Walbert, and Sue Robinson.

Mary VanBeber, Dorothy Scholfield and Virginia Lee Wilson; Helen Jo Painter, Betty Kelly, and Lois Garwood, Ruth Fullerton, Margaret Coburn and Sue Barnes; Lillian White, Pauline Dykes, Milly Carter, and Opel Goettel.

  

62.6.21  "Trophy Winners"

Completion of the annual Miami Women's handicap golf tournament was climaxed Wednesday when Faye Berentz presented trophies to Clara Barton, (2nd from left), 18-hole flight champion and Louise Curlee, runner-up; Helen Moore, 9-hole champion, and Hattie White, runner-up.

62.7.22  "Okmulgee's Dick Orr is Champion"

 

Dick Orr, 17, Okmulgee, who has accepted a golf scholarship to the University of Oklahoma, captured top honors in Friday's second annuals Miami Junior boys invitational at the Miami Country club. 

Orr carded 36-37-71, one-over par score, for the 18-hole medal play. Tying for second place in the championship flight were David Hines, of Tulsa and Dan Holt of Bartlesville.

Miami boys who won are: Charles Dawson, Championship driving; Pat Wilson, A flight driving; Woody Painter, C flight putting. The tournament was sponsored by the Miami Ladies Golf association and club pro John Stapp.  

62.7.29 "Junior Golfers End Season"

L-R: Jonya Stapp, Johnny Doty, Pat Wilson, Steve Moore, Jenee Kenreigh, Judy Berentz, ?, Bobby Wilson,? 2nd row:?, Jimmy Painter, John Robinson, Diana Oliver, Susan Russell, Jackie Mann, ?,  Tommy Cordell, Ann Cordell 

 

 

 Diana Oliver and John Robinson captured honors Friday in the annual Miami Junior handicap golf tournament by winning their respective divisions of the championship flight. John's 18-hole card showed a score of 44-45=89. With a 22 handicap his net score was 67. Stephen Moore won the runner-up trophy after a playoff with Pat Wilson. Each netted a 77. 

Diana's winning card showed 49-46=95 and an 18 handicap for a 77 net. Jenee Kenreigh was runner-up with a net 81. 

Woody Painter

A flight boys: Jimmy Painter, first with net 36; John Doty 2nd.

B flight boys: Jackie Mann first in playoff with Ray Coburn, both shot a net 37.

5 hole boys: Pete Whitaker, first; Bobby Wilson, 2nd

Pee-Wee boys: Tom Cordell, firs; Kenney Gibson, 2nd.

 

 

 

 

 

Susan Russell

A flight girls: Susan Russell, first; Judy Berentz 2nd

5-hole girls: Patsy Ridling, first; Jonya Stapp, 2nd.

2-hole girls: Ann Cordell, first. 

 

 

 

 

 

62. 8. 6 "Miami Golfers win in the Finale"

Miami Country club golfers handily outscored opponents from Joplin and Springfield here Sunday, 94 but the rally was not sufficient to bring the Miamians from the cellar position they've held in the triangular inter-club tournament begun last spring.

Miamians tallied 84 points Sunday while golfers from Joplin's Twin Hills and Springfield's Twin Oaks gathered 38. The tourney winner was Springfield with a total of 184, Joplin 181, Miami 175. 

Two Miamians took low score honors Sunday, John F. Robinson and Bob Hill, Jr., both shot 76.

62.8.12  "Ladies Golf Notes"

Last weeks winners at the MGCC were Championship: Faye Berentz; Class A. Hattie Wall; Class B Clara Barton; Class C Gladys Wetzel.

 Photo on the left: Pat Horner, Helen Moore, Clara Barton, Claire Oliver (who later became the Jr. High School golf coach).

Personal notes from Jody (Joanne) LaCaff Lasky:

I  had my wedding reception there in 1962. I gave Patti Gibson a bridesmaid luncheon there in 1965 and Mavis Ford gave me a party there as a graduation present in 1960.

62.9.2 "Karen Kay Williams Bride"

Miss Karen Kay Williams daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Loren Williams, 919 B NW and William C. Harsch Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. William Harsch Sr, C Harsch of Catasauqua, Pa. were united in marriage in a double-ring ceremony Friday, August 17, at 3 p.m.  NOTE: Sunday upon Sunday the newspaper is filled with wedding pictures of brides from all over the county. Most often the decorations take paragraphs to describe. "The altar was decorated with bouquets of white gladioli and pink asters entwined with greenery and white satin bows. Pews were marked by white satin bows......

62.9.2  "Record Field Due Next Weekend for 7th Annuals Miami Golf Invitational"

A record field of 72 out-of-towners from 20 cities in four states and 28 local contestants will begin the tournament this Saturday. Percy Pipes previous winner is expected to defend his title this year.

1956 Jack Myers, Miami

1957 Jack Myers, Miami

1958 Podge Ferguson, Kansas City

1959  Dr. W.D. Jackson, Miami

1960 Percy Pipes, Mt. Vernon, Illinois

1961 Percy Pipes, Mt. Vernon, Illinois

1962  7th annual  up for bid

W.D. Jackson (and his wife Norma Lou, who goes on to chair this tournament for decades) is the general chairman of the event. Robinson is in charge of invitations and finance Pairings will be supervised by Robert Temple, Harry Whitaker; Vernon Sapp will be starter; Club  pro Johnie Stapp, will be in charge of rules.  

NOTE: This tournament brought in a lot of money to Miami over the years since men drove to Miami to get in practice rounds through out the summer months. The course was consider fair but extremely difficult and placement of the tee shot mattered. The women came on Friday with their husbands and shopped downtown. The unmentionable is that this tournament was considered a Calcutta during which men could place bets on their team or others to see who won. This form of gambling took place nationwide until the 1980's, but all along it was considered against the law, so people did not speak openly of the dealings.  Women in Oklahoma had their own tournaments during the 1960's, 70's, and 80's that were Calcuttas, again the unmentionable, but most certainly gambling payoffs.   

62.9.10  "Hatfield Wins Tourney Title"

Missouri golfers dominated  top honors in the seventh annuals Miami Country club invitational tourney which ended a two-day run Sunday evening in cold, rainy weather. Jim Hatfield of Neosho, a Rocketdyne machinist, captured the crown with a 36-hole score of 146. His one-under par 71 on Saturday took medalist honors. He scored 75 on Sunday.

Runner-up with 74-74=148 was Bill Stewart of Springfield, winner of the Missouri state amateur championship 1953 and 1957 (father of the PGA pro Payne Stewart, who also played golf at the country club before turning pro.) Miami banker John F. Robinson won third place with a 150 total. This marks the fifth straight year that Robinson has finished in the top four of the invitational. 

Jim Hatfield, champion, Bill Stewart, 2nd

The championship flight was limited to the 13 who scored 79 or under on Saturday. Those included Jack Myers, Miami 79-80=159 and Marshall Smith, Quapaw, 78-84=162. 

Of the 109 golfers from four states who had signed up for the tournament, 104 posted qualifying scores on Saturday despite heavy rains throughout the area early in the day. Rainfall here for the two tournament days totaled 2.41 inches. 

62.10.4 "Ladies Trophy Winners"

The Ladies Golf association voted to name its annual fall golf event the "Virginia Campbell Memorial Tournament" in honor of the late Mrs. Pat Campbell, an enthusiastic golfer and member of the association. Trophies, donated by Country club President Pat Campbell, were present to the medalist, Claire Oliver; championship Faye Berentz, Class A Hattie Wall, Class B Helen Stapp, and Class C Helen Moore. 

62.11.11 The annual meeting of the Miami Golf and Country club stockholders will be held on a regular Stagg night this Tuesday. Dinner will be served beginning at 7 o'clock prior to the meeting.

1962 Golf Shop Employees:

Ed and Cora Westfahl, Bobby Ballenger, Warren Harkins.

Figuring Handicaps: I made $15.00 a month when I helped mom compute all of the handicaps for the members. We used an ancient black adding machine to put in the numbers. When I had a total, I then used a slide rule designed for golf handicaps and figured an average score, and then a handicap. Mom and I took turns with this job until I was older and put in charge.  Jonya and I both agree that the fun part was using the old adding machine and pulling down the handle. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Teaching tips from the Pro:

 

He also built a short demo club about 12-15" long with a full grip. The grip he used over and over to teach everyone of his students how to properly hold the club  

He believed in the effectiveness of the Vardon grip and consistently shared that information with people who came into the golf shop whining and complaining about the round he/she just had.  

 

1962 Junior Golfers

 

1960's The Golf Carts and The Snake Pit

 

If there was trouble to be found Dad and Doc Jackson were the pair. They were also great teammates in Pro-Am's around the Tri-state area, plus a few trips to California. The funny stories also came from the lips of Ky Laffoon, Dr. Harry Ford, Charlie Trussler, Marion Zajic and a friend of Dad's from California, Dale Stokes. 

*Dale was a traveling licensed electrician, plumber, all around fix it man. He and his wife, Elsie, lived in an AirStream travel trailer, never owning a home. When Dale did not have work he and Elsie sometimes came to see the pro and help dad with electrical and other handy man repairs for several weeks. 

In the time between 1955--1961 dad cleared out the remaining space under the ballroom to make room for his growing cart business. It took quite a bit of time and expertise from electricians and other laborers to set the beams and post for electricity, so we could later charge cart batteries. Concrete was laid at the inside entrance from the golf shop, more or less a back door out of the shop that went through the cart storage. This space gave Johnie a work area for tinkering on all golf clubs, all machinery, and especially his golf carts. I have searched high and low for Johnie's record book of the golf carts and not found it. I can promise you he was extremely meticulous in keeping track of every gallon of gas; the times he changed batteries; which one was or was not charging properly; each time a tire needed repair; every penny spent and every trip to Wichita or Joplin for parts recorded. He kept the same meticulous records in every car he owned.

The golf cart business boomed beginning in 1955. Our timing in the golf industry was perfect for bringing in golf carts and push carts.  President Dwight D. Eisenhower and other celebrities of the time brought attention to the golf carts and their usefulness to the game. 

The golf cart behind Mickey Wright is the type that dad bought in the beginning.

The first carts were three wheeled gasoline engines, and continued to be used until 1974. The steering mechanism on gasoline carts was known as tiller steering, which was a triangular bar with rounded edges.

 

In the beginning, I think Dad used E-Z Go Golf Carts and then switched to Cushman for gasoline and electric. I know that we did not have covers for them to protect us from the blazing sun, nor were they comfortable, but they were the style and classy looking.

Speaking from experience the gasoline cart went fast and turned quickly. This also meant it was quite dangerous and from time to time people were tossed out of the golf carts. I, for one, tossed my mother out on hole #2 after we hit our drives. I was driving the golf cart and passed mother's tee shot, I turned the cart to the left and mother flew to the right and rolled on the ground. I did not laugh, nor did Johnie Stapp! He and Jonya were driving behind us and saw what happened. That was one more time (of the many) that I was scolded severely and grounded. No wonder I didn't go to Mutt Hutt or Teen Town, as often as my friends.

Battery powered carts began to show up two by two during my teenage years. Dad paid for most of the carts with cash when he could, rather than take out a loan. 

Fun Fact: gas golf carts were originally promoted for elderly, seriously ill, and disabled people who still wanted to enjoy the sport of golf.  

Golf Cart History in Pictures This is the best website I have found for photos of the old golf carts. Certainly many memories in those old beauties. 

 

The Snake Pit

 

Once the cart room storage was complete Dad and his team of the "C.S. Club" Trussler, Zajic, Painter brothers, Wild Bill Hirsch, Doc Jackson, and others, not to mention the men who worked as grounds keepers, spent many a winter Thursday night digging out the "Snake Pit." It was in the Southeast corner of the cart storage. It had two big steps down to the lower level, no concrete, just dirt. It was a square shape about three foot deep (20' by 20' or larger). Dad bought a large net that hung in the back from the beams and was bolted down the ground. A tarp hung behind it.

The "snake pit" was built so the men could hit golf balls down there on cold days and nights.  It remained busy during my time there in the '60's.  Behind the netting and tarp Dad would sometimes hide liquor or store beer. On nights when there might be a raid on the bar upstairs this became a secret hiding place for the slot machines.

Range balls (practice golf balls) in a bucket remained in the pit throughout the year. When it rained outside, the mud and clay became slick, but Johnie had a solution. We stood on rubber mats like the ones used outside at Driving Range facilities 

It also became a new secret place for kissing couples who didn't want to be seen or caught by the pro.

There were numerous kissing places hidden to the public in that old building. I found them all, and on a few occasions I found them occupied. I was like a church mouse roaming the clubhouse from the time we moved there until I moved away. 

Once when I was way too young to find the attic, I shared a baloney sandwich with JD, whose mother was the cook and ran the dining room services. They lived in the apartment upstairs and it was through their door that two little children learned how to walk on beams and look out the window facing the north toward the practice green. I am surprised I didn't walk away with splinters buried in my hands. The attic was raw hot and dark and dangerous.   Architectural Layout of the Country Club

Years later, when I read THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE I knew that I had been there myself. No, I hadn't gone through a magical wardrobe, but I had found a magical kingdom at the top of the Miami Country club. It remained my special hidden place. As long as Fay Doty lived there I found refuge in the attic, alone sometimes with a toy and my imagination. 

1961 TIMELINE AND STORIES OF MGCC

1961 Golf Shop Employees:

Westfall's a husband and wife team who opened the shop Tuesday-Saturday with Letty Stapp. Roger Scruggs, Brad Smallwood,and Roger Rollins worked from noon or 2:00 until dark.  Other boys worked off and on and some were caddies.

1961 January 22 "Country Club News"

A joint meeting of the Ladies Golf association and the Ladies Division of the Miami Country Club will begin with a 1:00 luncheon Wednesday, followed by bridge and canasta. For reservations phone 2-4429.  

1961 March 12 "Stag Night Tuesday"

The monthly stag night program (for men) at the Miami Country club will begin 6:30 Tuesday. (This was a monthly dinner and weekly team play. The men did not post pairings or results in the newspaper as the women did.)

1961 April 10 Prep Golfers View for Awards Here

The return of sunshine after a bleak weekend was greeted at Miami Country club this morning as members of 12 high school golf teams began play in the annual MHS Invitational tournament. Miami Pro Johnie Stapp is the starter for the 27-hole meet. Miami coach Jack Rusher is directing the tournament. 

61 Boys MHS Golf Team: Charles Dawson, Stephen Moore, Charlie Bill Hirsch, and Dick Neel. 

 

Other schools are Seminole, Midwest City, Del City, Coffeyville, Kansas, Capitol Hill, Harding, Grant, Southeast and Northeast in Oklahoma City. The host Wardogs are also competing. 

1961 April 11 "Muskogee Scores Golf Meet Sweep"

At the end of the 18-hole play the Roughers had cinched the four-ball and two-ball championships and Jim Buchanan was tied with David Rappe of OKC U.S. Grant for medalist honors. 

Host Miami wound up eighth in two-ball scoring and in a tie for sixth with Seminole in four-ball. Coach Jack Rusher said the Wardogs "should have shot several strokes better." Leading Miami scorer was Dick Neel with an 81, followed by Charles Hirsch with a 90. 

GIRLS GOLF: Rusher announced that the Miami High school girls' golf team would compete in a Tri-angular meet in Springfield, Mo. today. Miami's opponents will be Hillcrest and Central high schools, both of Springfield. 

1961 April 12 mdnr "Miami's Fem Foursome is Golf Winner"

Miami High School girls, playing in their first competitive golf rounds of the season, won a Tri-angular met at Springfield, Missouri Tuesday again the hometown Central and Parkview high school teams.

 

The meet ended after 9 holes due to rains. Miami 210, Parkview 226, and Central 230. Freshman Susan Stephenson of Miami was medalist with 50 strokes. Scores by the other Miamians were: Bobbi Baron, junior,52; Phyllis Propper, senior, 53, and Diana Oliver, sophomore, 55. Gaye Phillips, another member of the Miami team, did not make the trip because of last night's participation in the senior play. 

High school girls golf coach, Jack Rusher, hailed the victory as a tribute to the junior golf program that was inaugurate at the Miami Country club a few seasons ago by Professional Johnie Stapp. 

A return match will be held here Monday.   

1961 April 16 "Miami Ladies Will Play for Suggs Trophy"

Members of the Miami LGA will compete Wednesday in a "Louise Suggs" tournament at the Country club. A style show featuring Suggs designs will be held a week later following the association's luncheon at the club. Ramsay's of Miami is sponsoring the Suggs activities in co-operation with the association. 

Mrs. Dan Heyburn is chairman of the tournament and Mrs. Clarence Carselowey will be in charge of the style show. The highlight of the style show will come with presentation of the Louise Suggs trophy to the champion of the nine-hole handicap tournament. 

Miss Suggs has earned a niche in the golf Hall of Fame with numerous honors, including USGA Women's Amateur champion; winner of the British Women's tournament, and twice winner of the Women's National Open Championship. As a founding member of the Women's Professional Golf association (now the LPGA) she was elected President in 1955 of WPGA. 

Wednesday pairings will be from the white tees. 

Mrs. George Wojcik, Mrs. Bill Oliver, Mrs. Bob Temple, Mrs. Bill Hatfield; Mrs. Kelso Berentz, Mrs. Pat Callahan, Mrs. Georg Russell, Mrs. R.W. Varley; Mrs. Ray Coburn, Mrs. Tom Barton, Mrs. W.D. Jackson, Mrs. Bert Wall; Mrs. Claud Jones, Mrs. Lois Cowles, Mrs. Spencer Dawson; Mrs. George Lusk, Mrs. Ted Vernon, Mrs. Johnie Stapp; Mrs. Jack Schofield and Mrs. Loren Williams;  Mrs. Olin Moore, Mrs. Hazel Johnson, Mrs. Charles Trussler, Mrs. Bill Medcalf; Mrs. George Walbert, Mrs. Wayman Jackson, Mrs. Corbin Shouse, Mrs. L.A. Wetzel; Mrs. Don Johnson, Mrs. Rodney Boaz, Mrs. Al White; Mrs. Bill Carter, Mrs. Jim Smallwood, and Mrs. G.R. White. 

New comers this year include Mrs. Wayman (Beverly) Jackson, Mrs. Tom Wilson, Mrs. Sam Fullerton III,Mrs. George Windham, Mrs. Loren Williams, and Mrs. Rodney Boaz.

1961 April 17 mdnr  "Miami's Champion Girls Competing in Norman Meet"

The Miami high school girls golf team, winner of the three top honor in their division of the high school tournament Tuesday at Oklahoma City, are competing today in an invitational meet at Norman.

Members of the team are Suzanne Stephenson, Phyllis Propper, Diana Oliver, and Gaye Phillips. 

 

1961 April 28 mdnr "4 Miami Girls in Top 5 at Norman Meet"

Miami high school's girls golf team, winner of the state championship  in their division at Oklahoma City on Tuesday, were leaders again Thursday in an invitational girls meet at Norman. The four Miami girls were in the top five in medal play. At the end of the 18 holes, Suzanne Stephenson and Sherry Taylor of Oklahoma City Northeast were tied for medal honors with 95 totals. 

In the state meet Miss Stephenson edged Miss Taylor by one stroke for medalist honors!  (For several years our Wardog, Miami High school, girl golfers won state medalist and team trophies, then the state athletic association ended girls high school golf beginning in 1963 my sophomore year in high school.)

In a playoff, Miss Stephenson won by a stroke on the first extra hole. The 18-hole scores by the Miamians were: Stephenson, 52-43=95;Gaye Phillips, 49-42-101; Phyllis Propper, 52-50=102; Diana Oliver 55-50=105. 

UPDATE: Gaye Phillips one of the original team members died October 17, 2024. Her obituary shares the many contributions that Gaye made to women's golf: Gaye Phillips Lanford, 81, of Little Rock, Arkansas grew up in Miami, Ok...After a rewarding career in politics Gaye devoted her energies to her true passion--golf. She refined her skills and promoted the game for women, juniors, and senior golfers alike. She was a 12-time Women's Champion of Little Rock CC, runner-up in the Arkansas Women's Senior Championship. Gaye served as a USGA Regional Committee Woman and Director of the Arkansas State Golf Association. Additionally, she served on the Country Club of Little Rock golf committee for seven years and was one of the first female members invited to join the Alotian Club.

Personal Note: Johnie Stapp taught the golf swing rhythmically with junior golfers and beginners, as if he were keeping time to a 4/ 4 beat. When I turned 13 I began helping my father with junior golf lessons each week. He began teaching us in a circle facing outward and we counted to a rhythm of back 1,2, through 3, 4.  Dad would change the tempo by the speed of his count, allowing us to swing slowly or with dynamite speed.  **To this very day, I swing and sing with a very rhythmical beat. In order to keep my head focused on "one shot at a time" (thank you Harvey Penick), I sing quietly to myself. It keeps my head clear of all other thoughts.

The Golf Gypsy and The Sound of Silence 

1961 May 2 mdnr "Country Club's 4-Ball Tourney List Announced"

Match play pairings for the Men's 4-Ball has been announced. First matches must be played on or before Sunday each week. The pairings are:

Ed Olvey-Jess Fronterhouse vx. Ray Coburn-Kermit Lewis.

Marion Zajic-Charles Trussler vs Jack Schofield-Ray McKinney.

Brady Pipes-Glenn Scott vs O.W. Fox-Pat Callihan.

Harry Ford-Paul Wilson bye

Bob Hill Sr.-Bob Hill Jr. vs Bill Hatfield-Jerry Zeis.

Harry Gilmore-Tom Barton, bye.

G.R. White-Al White vx K.C. Jeffries-Hank Garwood

Harry Kenreigh-Grank Hansford, bye.

Bill Neel-P.J Stephenson vs Bernie Schaff-Dail West.

Rex Painter-George Beck vs Burton--Ralph Fulk.

Clarence Carselowey-Joe Thompson vs Bill Carter-Johnny Haralson.

W.D. Jackson-Spencer Dawson  bye.

Ken Richards-Ted Vernon vs Richard Varley-Stanley Ulmer.

W.C. Campbell-Woodrow Painter  vs George Wojcik-Bill Oliver.

Harry Whitaker-Dick Neel, bye.   

1961 May 7 mdnr "Miami Product to Aid Golfers"

..

A tiny Miami publication should help produce better scores on golf courses across the nation.

Entitled "Johnie Stapp's (P.G.A.) Stroke Saver" the first editions are just off the press at the Gosney Printing Company. They are being distributed to country club pro shops in a wide area and will be publicized nationally in golf magazines. 

Mrs. Smai Lusk of 832 B. Street Northwest, a member of the Miami Ladies Golf association, started compiling information for the pocket-sized publication last August and put it in final draft form through collaboration with Stapp, professional at the Miami Country club. 

Printed in ready-reference form are 15 cards that are stapled together like a small note book. with printing on both sides, there are 30 pages of facts in two divisions--trouble shots (and what to
do about them) and definitions.

Advice is given on sand traps, rough shots, wind shots, downhill-uphill-sidehill lies, the slice, the hook, topping and shanking.  

**Dad and Smai sold these pocket sized Stroke Savers through the 1960's.

1961 July 10 mdnr "Rolling Hills Golfers Win"

Rolling Hills golfers of Tulsa defeated Miami Country club linksmen, 105 to 63, in matches played Sunday on the local course. Eight-four men took part in the event, with 14 teams of three men each from the clubs.

Miami's No. 1 trios won their matches. Pro Johnie Stapp, Jack Myers and Bob Hill Jr., were winners over Pro Al Kozell, Bob Dirch, and J.D. Phillips.

Maimians W. D. Jackson, Jesse Fronterhouse and Ed Olvey smothered George Hines, Ray Southerland, and Don Eley, 11 to 1. Handicaps were used in the matches.The only other Miami trios that won consisted of Rex Painter, Joe Thompson, and Clarence Carselowey and Harry Dean, Al White, and David Robinson.

1961 June 15 Pairings Announced for Miami Golf Tournament

Bob Hill Jr., 1960 schoolboy golf champion of Oklahoma and a freshman the past year at the University of Tulsa, shot a two-under-par 70 to capture medalist honors in qualifying rounds for the annual Men's club tournament.  Sixty-four men will fill the field of this championship for the men. 

1961 June 15 Snead Favorite as Open Begins

Snead has to beat defending champion Arnold Palmer, leading PGA money-winner Gary Player, four-tie Open champion Ben Hogan, but most of all he has to whip the Open whammy against himself.  

1961 June 15  Twilight Golf Pairings

Winners in the latest mixed twilight golf competition at the Miami Country club were: Lillian White and Bob Temple, low net; Claire Oliver and Charles Trussler, low gross; Hattie White and Tom Barton, low putts; Erin Wojcik and Bill Medcalf, high net. 

Wilma Medcalf-Bob Nunn vs Joan Smallwood-Bob Temple; Melba Cordell-Bill Oliver vs Dorothy Schofield-Claud Jones; Mary Varley-Don Johnson vs Mar VanBeber-Jack Schofield; Gladyce Hirsch-Bill Carter vs Jan Trussler-Don Curlee; Claire Oliver-Bob Hill Sr vs Nancy Johnson-Bob Hill, Jr.; Florence Dawson-Dr. Jackson vs Phyllis Propper-George Wojcik; Hattie White-Dr. Varley vs Marian Richards-Charles Turssler; Evelyn Hatfiled-Wayland Kelly vs Smai Lusk-Kenneth Richards; Hattie Wall-Bill Medcalf vs Louise Curlee-Bill Hatfield; Millie Carter-Jim Smallwood vs Erin Wojcik-Bert Wall; Norma Nunn-Tom Cordell vs Virginia Sapp-Al White; Norma Lous Jackson-Spencer Dawson vs Yvonne Temple-Hance VanBeber; Gay Phillips-Bill Hirsch vs Helen Jones-George Lusk. 

**Personal Note: 1961 was my first year to work at the country club. My father set my hours for Tuesday-Saturday sunrise (6:30-7:00 am) until 2:00 each day. In the beginning I worked with other adults who opened the shop. In 1961 I worked with Mr. and Mrs. Westfall, an older couple. Mr. Westfall and I did all of the heavy lifting of golf bags. Lunch was NOT provided by the club, so we all took turns eating lunch from our sacks or metal containers. We brought our own drinks or snacks.

Tuesday began at sunrise as the women made the earliest tee times (Hattie Wall and Evelyn Hatfield come to mind.) Following them were the men getting off the midnight shift from Goodrich and other plants. Twilight league didn't begin until 5pm but it was my job to answer the phone calls and keep track of all changes in pairings. I also called various members who put their names on the substitute list to show up when needed. 

Wednesday was extremely busy with ladies day. They began play at 9:00 or earlier. Most all of the women walked and pushed their golf bags in rented carts from my father. It costs $.25 to rent a handle. My young hands were needed to help put handles on the golf carts. Dad arrived before the ladies teed-off and then often drove to the post office and bank about 10 o'clock each morning. 

Thursday afternoon originally was called a professional men's  afternoon referring to doctors, lawyers, BFG management, Eagle-Picher management, etc. By about 1962 that title was no longer used and the men formed regular golfing groups that were nicknamed "the C.S. Club" by Frankie, our bartender. Most of the men relaxed over lunch at the club, changed into their golf clothes and played golf until dark. Some stayed over and gambled or played cards till late into the night.

On long winter days one group of 8-16 men came to our house after dinner for ping pong. Their cigarette smoked filled our garage with a heavy haze. Over the years the evening activity changed from ping-pong to dad's fascination with trains. 

Fridays were Junior Golf days and by age thirteen I was helping Dad teach the youngsters how to swing the club and putt. I joined in and played with everyone and mother's and dad's helped with the junior program by walking with a group of golfers and keeping score. This taught us the rules and reinforced over and over the penalty for having temper tantrums on the golf course. (Refer to Woody Painter for more elaborate stories on this.) Yes, my father would kick the club members off the course for several weeks at a time for their behavior. Every parent appreciated this discipline.  

Saturday's were extremely busy if the weather allowed. Our tee sheet was full from sunrise until dark. Many an evening I spent back at the club chipping golf balls up the signs for dad to pick up easier with the hand held ball retriever bags--one ball at a time. It was a long slow process but probably my most favorite memory of all because nature surrounded me and I was helping my dad. To this day chipping (or short game) is my strongest ability and in my heart I would much rather play a round of golf near sunset. 

Sunday morning mother, Jonya and I often attended church. From the late 1950's through the 1960's my parents went to Grand Lake all day Monday, Dad's only day off, to get away. For a half-dozen years or more we shared a house-boat with the Jackson's, Dahl's, and Temple's.  We all loved to fish and a house-boat offered a heated room with a fishing hole in the middle of winter. 

 

1961 mdnr July 2 "Tri-State Results"

1961 mdnr July 7  "Tulsa Girl Takes Junior Golf Title"

Kay Van Valkenburgh, 17, of Tulsa won the Championship of the second annual Miami Invitational Jr. Girls Golf Tournament. Miss Van Valkenburgh who will be a senior this year at Edison High School, carded an 18-hole total of 93 on rounds of 43-50. Donna Fox of Seneca, Mo, a member of Miami's junior golf organization, was runner-up this year with a score of 44-50=94. 

The tournament sponsored by the Miami Ladies Golf association drew 68 contestants. Mrs. Stanley Ulmer was tournament chairman.  

The champions and runner-up in the five other flights were:

A flight, Nancy Shelby, Tulsa, and Sally Ulmer, Miami.  

B flight, Letty Stapp, Miami, and Debbie Kinkade, Broken Arrow.

C flight, Missy Lowe, Springfield, Mo., and Sandy Stephenson, Miami.

Pee Wees, Sharon Sumpter, Tulsa, and Jonya Stapp Miami.

1961 July 

 

Junior Golfers end season with trophies: L-R Tommy Cordell, Tim Scholfield, Danny Kruithof, Billy Oliver; Karen Jeffries, Lee Dell Snyder, Kathy Olson, Susie Stephenson, missing from photo Brad Smallwood.

 1961 September 8  "Proper Takes Top Title in Ladies Golf Tournament"

Admiring trophies presented Thursday to the Ladies Club Championship: Mrs. Spencer Dawson (18 hole medalist); Mrs. George Wojcik (from right) medalist and winner of the 9 hole championship; Phyllis Propper, Club Champion 18 holes, Mrs. Richard Varley, 18 hole A Flight Champion, Mrs. Olin Moore, 9 hole A flight winner.

1961 "Shell's Wonderful World of Golf

In 1961 Shell produced it's first World of Golf one hour show with a match between Billy Casper and Mario Gonzales. In 1962 they produced 10 matches world wide, from Hong Kong to London, and Melbourne to St. Andrews. 

Television was now playing a bigger role in the game of golf and it's promotion At the same time the top players were Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino.

1961 September "Ladies' Golf Notes"

Winners in the week's regular play for the Miami Ladies Golf Assoc. were: Phyllis Propper, Championship; Mrs. Loren Williams, Class A; Mrs. Lillian White, B; Pauline Dykes and Dorothy Schofield, C.  

Forty four women have signed up to play this Wednesday. 

1961 September 17  "Todd Takes Lead in Miami Golf Tourney"

 Dave Todd, veteran golfer from Nevada, Mo., was the only entry from a field of 107 in Miami's sixth annual invitational golf tournament to break even with par in 18-hole qualifying rounds Saturday n the beautiful but difficult course at the Miami Country club. The tournament will end late this afternoon with champions in five flights being determined on 36-hole scores-including the qualifying round

Todd carded a 36-36 for medalist honors. Runner-up was Jim Hatfield of Neosho, Missouri, 38-35=73. Defending champion Pursie Pipes of Mt. Vernon, Illinois was third with a 37-37=74.

Others who made the championship flight were: Bob Smith and Joe McKenzie of Joplin, 75; Ed Olvey, Afton, 76; Max Marsh, Webb City, 77; Dr. W.D. Jackson of Miami, tournament chair, 78; Roger Kelly, Kansas City, 78; John F. Robinson, Miami, 79; 80's by Jess Fronterhouse of Picher, Marshall Smith of Quapaw, Merlin Kirk, Pittsburgh, and Walter Williams, Bristow; 81's by Dick Clary of Tulsa and Ted Vernon and Harry Gilmore, Miami

Rounds were to begin at 7:30 am today, with players in the championship flight due to begin their tours about 1 pm. Presentation of trophies probably will take place between 6 and 6:30 pm. 

The tournament list, larger than ever before, consists of golfers from 27 cities in five states. There are 73 out-of-town entries.

 1961 September 18 "Pipes Repeats as Golf Champion" by Mack Boswell

Pursie Pipes of Mt. Vernon, Ill., repeated Sunday as champion of the Miami Invitational Golf Tournament. He carded a 2-over par 74 in Saturday round and a 76 on Sunday. Only one stroke behind for runner-up was Ed Olvey, superintendent of Afton schools, with a 76-75=151.

Tied for third were two Miamians--Dr. W.D. Jackson winner of the 1959 tourney, 78-76=154, and John F. Robinson 79-75-154. Darkness prevented a playoff to break the third-place tie. 

Other Miamians who placed in the tourney were:

B flight: G.R. White, 87-82=169

D flight: Bill Hirsch, 95-92=187

 1961 October 26 mdnr  "Turkey Shoot Winner"

Mrs. Wayman Jackson is shown with the 'turkey' she won Wednesday in the Miami Ladies Golf association in the October "turkey shoot." She netted 35 in the nine-hole golf event with a score of 53, less 18 handicap. Mrs. Robert Temple, was runner-up a net of 39.

 

 1961 December 10 mdnr "Notice! notice!"

Stockholders of the Miami Country club are reminded that the annual stockholder's meeting will be held December 12, 1961 for the purpose of acting on a plan of reorganization. If members are unable to be present, the officers request proxy be filed with the secretary.  G.P. Campbell, President

 

 Tidbits:

April 1961 at The Miami Theater

 

1961-62 Candy store across from MHS on A st NE and 2nd NE 

 

October 1961

 Miami Quarter Horse breeder, L.K. Newell, has purchased a half-interest  (with Rowland Stanfield nationally prominent Broken Arrow breeder) in one of the nation's most distinguished stallions. Newell predicts the horse, Johnny Dial, will prove an important contributor to the Quarter Horse industry in Oklahoma as well as to development of his own breeding program at Sky Farm, east of Miami,

 

Christmas 1960 with the Pro

 “Don’t touch those flowers, they are poisonous,” a voice yelled at me when I ventured to break off a huge red flower to show my mother. I wanted to cry; it was my 13th birthday and I had already been scolded. The sun was warm and bright that day in Arcadia, California where I had been born. 

Later, mother explained that those bushes, called Poinsettias, might be poisonous or make me sick if I broke the stem and the sap oozed on my skin. (This has since been proven to be a myth.) It was another decade before the small, potable Poinsettias became ubiquitous with Christmas in every home. 

Our first Ferry ride. Wish you could see Mother behind the camera.

My sister, Jonya, turned 9 on December 11. Mother and Dad, along with their best friends Charlie and Jane Trussler decided to celebrate our monumental birthdays in California were I was born in 1947. I had not been back since we moved in 1950, and mother and dad had left many friends behind.

We arrived in the Pasadena, Arcadia area on Christmas day with dad behind the wheel of our faded Ford station wagon. One set of golf clubs in the back and a few suitcases. Charlie and Jane Trussler followed in their white Ford.  The first two days of traveling I rode in the backseat of Trussler's car and slept, thanks to Dramamine. I spent my childhood carsick until I learned to drive and could see the road ahead. My only memory of the entire 3,000 mile round drive is a lunch picnic in a park near Flagstaff, Arizona where snow covered the ground on Christmas Day. The Trussler's and Stapp through snowballs at each other. I played on Trussler's side, since I rode with them.  

But December 26 would be special as the four of us jumped in the station wagon and drove to Disney Land. How I wish I could share this story visually from my thirteen year old eyes, but memories will suffice. If mom and dad were here to share the story dad would remind me of the long lines we stood in for every ride.  Mom would recall seeing the real Walt Disney walk by while she sat on a bench.

1997 Matterhorn above Zermatt.

The long line that dad often laughed over was for the water ride through the Matterhorn, little did I know that one day in the future I would travel to Switzerland and see the real Matterhorn, but not to Austria to see the real castle that gave Walt the picture perfect castle for his dream world.

The pirate ship complete with cannons and pirates from Peter Pan or my imagination thrilled me, especially when we sat down below and the crew exploded the cannons nearby. The screams from children rocked the boat.

Sailing over the parking lot and throngs of people below, the monorail became the highlight for all of us. The stream line design of the train made us feel like we lived in a new age. The house of the future appealed to mother’s taste. In my imagination there massive windows, and straight formed furniture in bold yellows, greens, and oranges. Not anything like our home in Oklahoma.

There was more than Disneyland to fill our week. Dad and mom proudly took us to Santa Anita Golf course where he was a teaching pro after the war. Before he and Charley played golf, we all went to the driving range to practice.  I had never seen and two story fence around a driving range. Dad didn’t have to explain as the cars roared by on my left. Sadly, what I recall vividly is the smog rolling in.  Even Dad was upset, as he recalled the ocean fresh air from his time in California. The fog was thick and it smelled stale.

My curiosity about this trip led me to a few boxes of family photos. 

 Alan, the pro at San Clemente had been a special friend of my parents. We spent a day there and on the beach nearby the golf course. I am sure dad played golf while we played in the sand on the beach and enjoyed an outside lunch with mother and her friends. After mother and dad died so suddenly in 1989 I called a few of his California friends. During the spring of 1990 I flew to the John Wayne Airport and spent several days with people who recalled when I was born. They were so kind, and told great stories about my parents. It helped with the healing. Alan recalled a major tournament when dad played, missing the cut by one stroke. He apparently he hit the ball so straight that it hit a 150 yard marker in the middle of the fairway and the ball bounced out of bounds. The men joked later that Stappie hit the ball to straight.

On December 31, 1960 we spent the day at Marineland and mother captured the picture of Bubbles, the pilot whale performing tricks for the audience. Corky and Orky, two famous Killer Whales, also performed, giving children and parents the opportunity to imagine these creatures in the wild, and to help prevent their senseless killings 

Marineland of the Pacific

Lick Peir is known for having one of only two roller coasters to swing out over he ocean's edge, The Giant Dipper. My little 9 year old sister, Jonya, crawled in the front seat with dad and off they flew, up down, curve after curve, until we watched them disappear from sight. The screams indicated when they swerved over the
water. 

 

I was terrified to ride with dad, so I chose the Wild Mouse Screamer, as I called it. Instead of side-by-side seats, the car held room for only two with Jonya on bottom or at the back and her braver older sister in front or on top of her depending on the force and jolts of the ride. I screamed and cried the entire ride because the turns were so fast I thought I would fly out. (When I read the history of Lick Peir, Santa Monica, California   I discovered that they had to rework that ride the next year because it was too dangerous.) 

Always the golf clubs

Always the  stories

Will travel...