Regan Family News Vol 2 #11

Here is the link to RFN Vol 2 #11 January - February 1965

Today, on this autumnal equinox 2016, I write to share with you Ross' early 1965 edition of the Regan Family News. I hope everyone had a wonderful and restful summer and here's wishing all the best for a safe and productive fall. As the weather turns cooler, our thoughts turn toward sharing good times with family and friends. My thoughts are with you all and I look forward to reconnecting once again.

This issue contains a great cover from Barbara Regan with a wonderful personal note on page 2 from grandpa Ross. This 9 page issue also contains a note from the editor, family news, address changes, a vacation tip, and a 4 page story from Brother Dan on why monastic life was the right choice for him.

NEWS

The Hollis Regans

Ross reports on health concerns of the 4 surviving children of Peter Regan I. All are having difficulties as they neared the end of their days and Ross requested prayers for all.

The Harry Wellingtons

Slow progress with Joan's health issues

The Roy Johnstons and Ross Regans

They make winter plans for sunnier climes

From Helen Mulherin

Christmas travel news from the Mulherins'

The Vernon Lee Watts

Someone please tell me who this is!

John J Regan, Jr

News from California

Leddy Family News:

On our homefront there is not much new. Diane and I spent 2 weeks at Mount Tremblant north of Montreal with our good friends and traveling companions Ted and Nancy Smith. We hoped to escape the heat by traveling north but we had 90 degree temps the whole time!

I'm busy with my bar band, Gray Matters Band (like us on Facebook!), playing concert band gigs, and staying connected to the Stony Brook University Marching Band in my Emeritus position. Lot's of fun! Also, Hoptron Brewtique Running Club has become an important part of my life. Every Tuesday I drive to Patchogue to go for a 5k run and craft brew taste with new friends. We all seem to have a lot in common and it's a great hang for us all.

I sold the house I grew up in in Huntington, NY. It's still a beautiful town and we have many memories of such great times. It was difficult to say goodbye.

Maggie continues to work at Johnson Strings in Boston and study for her MBA at Northeastern University part time. It's a long haul but we're so proud of her progress.

James is living in Astoria, Queens and working at Bloomberg in Manhattan. Still living the good life in the city. Someone' got to do it! He plays occasional gigs on violin too, and of course, we're proud of him too!

If you have anything to share about your life, send it along to me and I'll be happy to include it in future blogs.

Bye for now!

Regan Family News Vol 2 #10

Here is the link to RFN Vol 2 #10 December 1964

Hi Family and Happy Summer 2016 to you all!

I know, you've been waiting for this post with baited breath since the most recent one posted back during the dark days of last winter. There are a couple of reasons why I've been on hiatus.

First, Diane and I spent 2+ months touring South America. We learned long ago that it's summer in the southern hemisphere when it's winter here, and I've finally gotten wise enough to take advantage of that fact. (Interesting tidbit: It's true!). Anyway, here's a photo of a penguin from the Falkland Islands: (To see more click here).

Also, this whole blogging business is a bit confusing to me. I got into this for the purpose of making this valuable document, The Regan Family News, available to my kids. Our paper copies are getting old and I fear they'll someday be lost. It's now nice to know they are preserved for future research, but I'm dismayed that they are, frankly, hard to find. The domain name is not memorable so I fear that these posts will also get lost. It's a dilemma and I'll continue to work to solve it.

Finally, I'm nearing the finish line in posting the RFN. There aren't many issues left and the remaining issues seem to be a bit dry and lacking in good information. Nevertheless, I'll soldier on and work to complete this project

As always, your opinions are valued so be sure to send them along.

This is the Christmas edition of the RFN 

and Ross goes all in. The cover is a simple, lovely drawing by Sarah Postier. Unfortunately, I had to use grey scale to upload this edition so the colors are not featured. I hope you have access to the original because it is beautiful

Ross takes the opportunity to write a Christmas message remembering a trip to the Holy Land and wishing peace to all. We're off to a happy, uplifting start!

NEWS

Rosemary T. Bohm

Peter lost his sister-in-law (Vera's sister) Rosemary. The funeral Mass was at St. Anselm's Church, 4th Avenue Brooklyn, a longtime parish of the Regan Family.

Joan Wellington

There is an update on Joan's condition. She was struggling mightily at this time. I had little contact with Joan, Harry, and Brian through the years. If anyone is able to tell more of Joan's story I would welcome the input on these pages.

From the Manhassett Peter Regans
There was a nice reunion if the Peter Regan family in Buffalo! Again, I have no contact with Peter's progeny so I welcome any contact information of stories anyone might have.

The Roy Johnstons
Lot's of talk of Thanksgiving and hunting! Tis' the season!

From Helen Gundersen
Good to read and hear the voice of my godmother, Helen. She and Ray were very close to our family and this was a nice report to review.

The final page is devoted to Ross explaining some new editing procedures and telling the story of Sarah's cover.

Regan Family News Vol. 2 #9

Here is the link to RFN Vol. 2#9 October-November 1964

Well, nearly three four(!) months have passed since I last posted so I presume you are all waiting with baited breath for this latest edition of the Regan Family News blog! I appreciate your sitting quietly on your hands and passing the time with nary a compliant. A demonstration of extraordinary patience and understanding, I must say! (Or else no one noticed?)

Not to fear, I'm back for our ninth installment of the second volume of the old RFN. Perhaps my lapse in posting reflects Ross' diminishing interest in publishing this august old rag. I sense a lack of direction and interest on his part and the fact is that we are nearing the end of the publications.

I write this in early January, 2016 so my thoughts are with you all as we head into a new year together. I hope you and yours are all well and happy and I wish everyone the best in 2016!

Diane and I will be traveling in South America for the next two months (it's summer there!) so I may be out of touch again, though I will make an effort to stay on top of the RFN publications!

On to the news:

This issue has a cover page, and what a cover it is! Take a close look (I won't describe it here). I'd like to know your thoughts. Actually, I'd like to know Ross' thoughts as he prepared this edition, though perhaps he is abundantly clear? But, on to the...

News

• The Ross Regans suffer a loss
• There is room for optimism concerning Joan Wellington's health
• Something about a certain Daniel Johnston Mulherin entering the world? Anyone know anything about this? Anyone?
• Seven paragraphs of news from the John Leddys, including word of my upcoming tests for admission to one of our fine Catholic high schools! Spoiler alert: I didn't pass! Much to my mother's chagrin...
• The Robert Postiers move to Greenwood Lake
• The Senior John J Regans played hosts...
• As do the Thomas Regans (pinochle all around)
• And there's more news from Ross' family

Our Covers

Ross addresses the fact that the holiday issues covers are spoken for and he then asks us to "ponder" the cover with this, the Thanksgiving issue. He acknowledges that it is not "apropos of Thanksgiving at all".

That's it! Happy days to all!

For those interested in genealogy, a final note: my own...

Things Everyone Should Know

We know from Vol 1 #1 that Nellie (Mom) Regan was born Helen Broderick in 1870 and that her parents died when she was an "infant".  I have found a John and Mary Ann Broderick buried in Holy Cross Cemetery in Brooklyn. Mary Ann died in 1871 and John died in 1873. That fits the narrative that Nellie lost her parents while she was a baby. Also buried in that grave is Elizabeth, and again, the RFN references a sister Elizabeth (as well as a brother Thomas). Is this the burial place of our ancestors? It's not definitive, but that is a coincidence.

And related: the 1870 census lists a Broderick family in New York Ward 6 with Elizabeth and other siblings included (Nellie isn't born until after the census, so she is not listed). The previous page lists a Russell family with Ann as matriarch. They appear to be neighbors of the Brodericks. Is this the Ann Russell who is Nellie's godmother and future guardian? Again, more research needed. 

Any comments? Please feel free to add them!

Regan Family News Vol. 2 #8

Here is a link to RFN Vol 2 #8 August-September, 1964


I continue to do light genealogical research and have found it to be most interesting. As I've mentioned earlier, I haven't discovered many ancestors other than those who have already been documented, especially here by Ross, but I have found a few new cousins on the Leddy side. If you haven't done family research, I recommend you to give it a try and don't forget to share your Regan family knowledge with us all! It's great fun.


I have learned that all 8 of my great-grandparents were Irish immigrants and I have located their Brooklyn and Queens grave sites. Well, all except for the graves of John and Mary Broderick, Nellie Regan's parents. I can't find any information about them despite what Ross has mentioned in Volume 1 #1. They remain a mystery as records of their existence in NY seem difficult to come by. A trip to the New York City Archives is my mission, so let's hope for the best.


This issue of the Regan Family News follows the most interesting of Ross' publications and, by comparison, it's rather lackluster. Nevertheless, there's always a smile or memory involved, so take a look!


Meanwhile, Diane and I are enjoying a week on the beach near Scituate, Ma. where we were able to visit Maggie and see her concert with the Cape Ann Symphony Orchestra. We went whale watching and saw this:




Happy Fall 2015 everyone!

RFN Vol. 2 #8 in a nutshell

NEWS

• We begin with difficult news regarding Joan Wellington's health. I wasn't close to my cousin Joan, but I have memories of her being unwell at this time. My family search records indicate that she passed in 2005, so she remained with us for many more years than I knew. And it seems that her husband Harry pre-deceased her by 2 years. I don't know what became of Bryan. We met a few times as kids and got along well. If anyone would like to add more information, please feel free to comment below.
• Greg Mulherin enters 1st grade and other fun Mulherin items
• The Gundersen's summer at Lake George (again)
• John and Elberta Regan spend time in Clayton
• John Regan, Jr does great work in California
• Tom Regan's family swims!

TALK TO EACH OTHER

This is like "letters to the editor". The 2 Helen's; Gundersen and Mulherin write their thoughts to share with us all. Helen G recommends the World's Fair.

OUR COVERS

Ross provides insight into his artwork

ARE YOU MISSING ANY RECENT RFN ISSUES?

Self explanatory. Now we know we just have to click on the link at the top of this page!

RFN REFLECTIONS

Words of Wisdom from our editor, Roswell Regan

Regan Family News Vol 2 #7

Here is a link to RFN Vol 2 #7 June-July 1964

Here we have the issue from the summer of 1964. It was a busy 2 months! The Beatles movie, A Hard Day's Night, was a sensation in theaters, and the Rolling Stones played their first American gig at a high school in Lynn, MA! And there was racial unrest in the south as the nation confronted segregation. Three civil rights workers were murdered in Mississippi, President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Law, and Barry Goldwater accepted the Republican presidential nomination. ...And... Ross Regan delivered his latest edition of the Regan Family News.

NEWS

This issue kicks off with a story about me! It's interesting to see what I was up to as I approached teenager-dom. And great to see that my Mom made a contribution to the RFN. Good work, Mom!

Elsewhere:

• Siblings Vera and John Regan reconnect at John's place in Clayton, NY
• Vera and Jim Farrell had a class reunion and Mary Johnston visited a new state
• The putting green at Roy Johnston's was enlarged
• Tommy Regan's family escaped to Swago for the summer
• Brother Matthew got a visit in Elmira
• Ross and Jo vacationed at Briars Inn and Country Club in Ontario, Canada
• Ross made a plea (demand?) for news. I admit, I see a pattern with those who send in news regularly

TALK TO EACH OTHER

Once again, we get a glimpse into some family dynamics through anonymous posts. And once again I ask, is this stuff for real?

INFORMATION WHICH EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE 

GRAVE NO. 12 IN CALVARY CEMETERY, SECTION 8, RANGE 34, PLOTT FF

Another view of the Peter Regan plot in First Calvary Cemetery,
Queens. St. Raphael's Church, between the LIE and
Hunters Point Ave is in the background

It turns out that the grave site photo I posted last month was a bit premature because here is the important information about who is buried in that plot! This may be the most important and relevant genealogical information about the Regan clan that we have, making this issue and RFN Vol 2#6 the two most important issues of the RFN. Keep this information close if you want to pursue your Regan family story. We learn about Peter Regan's death and about his two wives and children. Great and important stuff here!

WE MIGRATE NORTH AND VISIT WEST

By Sarah Postier
Here is a lovely story about the Postier's trip to California and Disneyland. Bill was a young tyke and I'm sure he enjoyed the trip. Kathy had not yet arrived on the scene. All in all, a delightful and timely reminiscence from Sarah. Give it a read.

HINTS TO OUR READERS

Ross has one of his stream of consciousness moments and writes 2 pages of information about everything from Underwriters Laboratory to Cornell Extension publications; from US meat inspection to oyster cultivation, to the purchase of liquor outside the country. A real time period piece. Enjoy!

And enjoy the rest of your summer as we head toward fall 2015. As always, feel free to comment, share a story, or alert us to relevant family documentation you might have. Bye for now!

Regan Family News Vol 2 #6

Here is a link to RFN Vol 2 #6 April - May 1964

What follows is a brief description of the wackiest and most eclectic issue of the Regan Family News yet. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. It really makes for a terrific and interesting read. Be sure to follow the link above (or here) to read for yourself and, as always, enjoy!

(I feel a need to apologize for the inconsistent and difficult to read text in this issue. As mentioned in the first of these publications, my scanning skills leave something to be desired...)

NEWS

• Ross and Jo visit Sister Elaine in Massachusetts
• An explosive evening in Mt Kisko! (No word on how roast grouse tasted)
• The Regan girls fought the measles!

INFORMATION WHICH EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE

Very important and interesting information regarding the founder of the American Regan Family: Peter Regan, Pop's father. I have done some family research, but I haven't found much more about Peter Regan than what Ross prints here. Census records seem to indicate that he settled in Five Points in Manhattan. That being the case, there must be an interesting story connected to his arrival! How did he avoid being drafted into the Union Army when he stepped off the boat? Did he see action in the Civil War? I've not found any records to indicate that he was a Veteran.

Diane, James and I did visit the gravesite of PR and it was fascinating to be there with Manhattan in view to the west and the Koskiosko bridge formidably standing guard to the east.

Peter Regan is buried at this site in Calvary Cemetery.
More in a future issue

I, for one, am intrigued by this story, and I urge anyone who might have additional information regarding our family history to please share it with us! Meanwhile, this is all we have concerning our origin story in the US, making this issue one of the most valuable issues of the RFN.

Editors note: My research into the US census records of 1870 and 1880 indicate that Peter Regan was born in Ireland in 1840 not, as Ross consistently states, 1847.

THE JOHNSTONS by Rob Roy

Roy Johnston's history of the Johnston clan. This is 3 pages and a MUST read! It can't be explained. Great stuff. These guys were witty!

TALK TO EACH OTHER

Jim Farrell lodges a complaint!

Wow! Is the testiness exhibited in this department real or tongue in cheek? 

HINTS TO OUR READERS

Yes, these are really the topics!

• Aspirin usage
• Poison control
• Booklets published by the Department of Agriculture
• Tax advice for drivers
• Mixing household chemicals
• Getting your car inspected

Regan Family News Vol 2 #5

Here is a link to RFN vol 2 #5

Here is a link to photos from Sarah Postier's memorial

This past weekend provided us with an opportunity to visit with one another. While we descended on the village of Warwick, NY to commemorate the life and mourn the loss of Sarah Postier, we also celebrated our familial bonds. Bill and Catherine were wonderful hosts and we thank them both for including us in the memorial process. Select the link above (or here) for more photos. Special thanks to Tom Farrell for sending along his photos. If anyone else has photos to contribute, please send them to me or try uploading them to the Google Photo site. That might work.

 
On to this month's issue of the Regan Family News. As always, Ross never disappoints and this issue is filled with interesting new developments. It seems like he was on a mission to continually improve his documentation, even while scolding his siblings for not contributing more. He clearly wanted a partner in this project, but one was never to emerge.

First Things First

It's the Easter Issue, hence one of the rare "covered" issues. "The Editor" is credited so I guess Ross produced this. He did a nice job picturing 12 of the 14 stations of the cross, and if you have the original, you'll enjoy the colors, which didn't reproduce.

News

• Vera Johnston continued to have health woes
• Bob Postier and family make a big move
• The Mulherin's get a visit
• Helen and Ray play host
• A birth announcement for Collen Marie Regan
• Ross reaches a dead end in his search for information regarding our immigrant ancestor, Peter Regan

Page 3 and then some...

Ross goes off on a 3 page patented yarn detailing what can only have been a wild winter weekend in Swago. It's classic "Reporter Ross" writing under a name de plume and it involves quite the cast. Read it; your family is in there somewhere, I guarantee.

Talk To Each Other

Here, Ross posts the readers' comments in regard to a topic he previously suggested: The government roll re: cigarettes. He then suggests a new topic for an upcoming issue: "Should children be transferred to other schools to promote integration?" Pretty crazy stuff for a family newsletter, but he wanted to spark political debate. Interesting, right?

Dilute Hysteria With Common Sense

The final page is an editorial regarding the stock market and suggestions for investing. Great stuff, as one might imagine.

Regan Family News Vol 2 #4

This is the link to RFN 2#4 February 1964

In case you missed it, here is the latest from Bill and Cathy Postier regarding the memorial and internment for Sarah:

For anyone who wants to attend, we'll be having 2 memorials for Mom; 1 here at the house in Vermont on May 9 & the other in Warwick, NY on May 30 where she will be interred. I'm assuming all of you would be coming to Warwick. The ceremony at the cemetery will be at 11am and a reception immediately following.  I'm still trying to book the firehouse again, but contacting them has been difficult.  I actually spoke to a person and not voicemail today, so I'm hopeful.  If you are attending, please RSVP as soon as possible.
Cathy can be reached at cpostier@myfairpoint.net


Holy political incorrectness! This month's issue is 6 pages of discombobulated mayhem! Here are your highlights, but be sure to review the whole issue. It's a humdinger!

• Your Eyes And Their Care: With this, Ross starts using the RFN to get helpful health news out to family members. Unfortunately, though he states that the article will be quoted in the newsletter, I seem to not have that. Check your old analog RFN issues and pass along this information if you have it.
• News of Peter F Regan, Jr's family: I have no contact information for anyone in my cousin Peter's family, but I was interested to get the valuable insight offered here. If you do have contact information, please share it with me. I'd like to reach out to them and include them in this mailing.
• Regan sibling health issues
• Swago news
• Reflections of a Marine: This is an insightful look into the life and family perspective of Jack Regan. Jack was a mythical figure in my life. He was frequently spoken about with great affection, but rarely seen. I met him maybe two times. Jack offers an interesting and touching perspective on the family. This is terrific and valuable documentation, and it's what makes this publication so important. Three wonderful pages worth.
• Announcing Another New Department: Ross goes all out to promote readership by becoming an early blogger! This can't be explained, it is must reading and it leads directly to the new department...
• Talk to Each Other: Okay, you're just going to have to read this one.

That's it for now! My best to all and hope to see you later this month. Diane, Maggie and I will be travelling to Costa Rica for another destination wedding later this week! (Since November, we've attended weddings in Las Vegas, Taipei, and now Costa Rica!) Best to all...

This is the link to RFN 2#4 February 1964

Regan Family News Vol 2 #3

This is the link to RFN 2#3 January 1964

This month's installment of the RFN is a 9 page affair with 7 pages devoted to Br. Matthew's report on working and living in Mexico City in the early 60's. The other 2 pages contain family news; mostly about the Ross Regans. I guess it was a slow month following the recent holiday. Check it out at the link above.

Meanwhile, as promised, here is a note from Catherine Postier regarding the passing of her mother, Sarah. Again, our sympathy and prayers go out to you, Catherine and Bill at this time and we look forward to seeing you next month.

Here is a link to Sarah Postier's obituary.

First, Bill and I would like to extend our sincere thanks to all who have offered their love and support to us after the loss of our Mother.  Obviously nothing can bring her back, but it makes things a bit easier knowing how loved and appreciated she was.  For those who made it to the reunion in the Manor, she was so happy to see all of you and really had a great time that day, as did we all.

The question I keep getting is "what happened?"  Well, some of you know that Mom was diagnosed with breast cancer last May and had a mastectomy in June.  She had undergone 12 weekly chemotherapy treatments and was on a lower dosage every 3 weeks.  She had just begun radiation in November, and then on the 21st she fell and broke both bones in her ankle.  She was in the hospital for a month, and then had been transferred to a rehab center to continue physical therapy.  In addition, she was receiving her ongoing cancer treatments at the Cancer Center next door to the rehab.  Fast forward to the week of February 2nd.  On Monday the 2nd, she received her last radiation treatment, and on Tuesday her ankle was declared 100% healed.  Friday the 6th, I picked her up and brought her home for the 1st time since November.  That night she was thrilled just to sleep in her own bed and see her cat, Jasmine.  Saturday went along fine all day.  We had finished eating dinner around 7 and I went into the other room to print off our "Christmas" letter for her to read before I made copies to mail.  When I came back into the living room 10 or so minutes later, she was gone.  I called 911 and tried CPR, but to no avail.  We're not exactly sure what happened, but think it was either a heart attack or blood clot.  At that point we didn't see the point of an autopsy.  She was cremated and we had a small wake at the local funeral home.  As with Dad, there was a snowstorm that night so I was worried about those that came getting home safely.

Going forward, I am in the process of moving into her house.  Bill already has a home and we decided we don't want to sell.  Since I was close by and was renting, it just made sense for me to take it over.  It necessitated a job change, but so far, that bit is going very well.  Needless to say, I'm a bit frazzled, but I think when I get to the other side, it'll ultimately be a good change.

We will be having two memorials for Mom; one here in Vermont, and the other in Warwick, NY where she will be interred.  The gathering at the Vermont House will be Saturday, May 9th in the afternoon.  The grave-side ceremony and reception afterward will be on Saturday, May 30th in Warwick, NY.  I am still working out details, but the interment will be at 11am at Warwick Cemetery.  I am trying to book the Raymond Hose Fire Company function room for the reception.  Those who came down for Dad's memorial may remember it.  If you plan to attend either, please RSVP to me.  You can call me at 802-962-5286, email dkhelmo@gmail.com, or mail to PO Box 221, North Stratford, NH 03590.

One thing we would love for people to do is to share their remembrances of Mom.  As you know, she could be very quiet and didn't talk about herself much.  We would love to have some stories to tell at the memorials.  Again, you can send them along to me or, if you plan to attend one of the get-togethers, we'll open up the floor and you can tell everyone. 

I truly think that Mom didn't realize how important she was to those around her.  I have been told in every way imaginable how wonderful she was and that she touched many lives.  I am so immensely grateful that I got to spend as much time with her as I did.  She was more than a mother, she was a friend to both Bill and I.  She was a sounding board and a rock and, although we were never a family to say "I love you" a lot, we never doubted it for a second.  Her light and calm demeanor was always there, no matter what.  She was no mouse though.  She was the "quiet one" that would come out with a zinger when you least expected it.  She loved to have a good time and she and Dad had more than their fair share of wild times over the years. She was smart and funny and a joy to be around.

Again, our thanks to you all for your messages of sympathy and support.  We look forward to seeing you at one of the memorials and at other family functions in the future.  Our love to you and yours, now and always.

Regan Family News Vol 2 #2

Here's the link to RFN 2 #2

Our deepest sympathies to Cathy and Bill Postier at this difficult time. Sadly, their mom, Sarah, passed away earlier this month. We'll include more about Sarah in a future blog. Here is a photo of Sarah and her sister, Vera Ann from our reunion last summer. Sarah will be remembered fondly by us all as a loving wife, mother, cousin and aunt.














Today, we are posting Volume 2 #2 of Ross Regan's family newsletter; titled "Christmas Issue". This was published in December of 1963 and, once again, we have original artwork on the cover. It is credited as follows on the inside page, which I didn't scan:
"Cover by Vera Ann Farrell. Thanks, Pink".

• Ross begins with good wishes from Brother Matthew and the Hollis, Queens, Regans (Pop's siblings).
• He mentions a new subscriber, John (Pat) Regan III. Interestingly, I heard from a friend of Pat's a couple of years ago regarding our family tree, as we were both doing research on Ancestery.com. Pat didn't use a computer, but he was alive and well in California! If anyone has contact with him, he may be interested in receiving these newsletters so please pass on his contact information to me.

News:

• There is a wedding announcement!
• (Ross continues with news on page 4. An apology: page 4 scanned badly. As I mentioned in the first issue, I'm not going to redo the scanning, so good luck to all!)
• "Pandemonium reigned" at the Mulherins
• Rt 17 opens; new directions given
• Pat Regan is living in San Francisco
• Mary Regan came east to visit her 88 year old mother. (I'm not sure who Ross is referencing here. Any help would be appreciated.)
• Ross admits he had recently been hospitalized

"OUR MESSAGE TO YOU FOR THE 1963 HOLIDAY SEASON" consumes pages 2&3. (I'm guessing Ross was a soldier on the "War on Christmas"?)
This is a beautiful and heartfelt editorial by Ross. As always, his writing is clear and the message is poignant. He and Josephine write about the meaning of the Christmas Season and they give thanks for the blessings our family enjoyed while paying homage to a fallen president and the family he left behind. I highly recommend this! Fifty plus years later, it still is a powerful story.

"BELAVE IT OR NOT, BY ROSCOE O'RAGAN" is the real prize of this issue. It is the final page and wraps up this most unusual and interesting edition. It is a story of research told in a hysterical "Oirish" dialect that is a MUST read!

Enjoy this marvelous edition!

Regan Family News Vol 2 #1

Here is the link to RFN 2 #1 October - November 1963

I almost missed blogging this month, but I'm squeezing this note in just under the wire. As I write this, Diane and I are cruising in Thailand with friends Ted and Nancy Smith. We began our journey with 10 days in Taiwan, moved on to Hong Kong where we boarded the Holland America Volendam for two weeks cruising Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. We'll reach Singapore in a few days and begin the journey back to the frigid northeast thereafter.

Meanwhile, here is the first edition of Volume 2 of the Regan Family News. It's the Thanksgiving 1963 issue and as I read it I realize that Ross must have published it just prior to the Kennedy assassination as he makes no reference to that transformative event. What he does do, is acknowledge the connection to Mom and Pop Regan's 75th wedding anniversary and the timing of the recently held family reunion at his home in Mount Kisco. I actually can admit that I remember that party so it must have been a good one.

Here's a photo of from our Meditteranean cruise in 2013 to get you in
the mood for Vol2 #1!

In other news:

• John Regan makes an announcement
• The Ross Regans visited with Elaine and Dan
• Ross was really pushing his Meditteranean slide show. (I'll be doing the same with our far east show!)
• Ross and Vera Johnston both had medical setbacks
• The Regan girls are having success in school and beyond
• My Mom, Margaret, send in some news and I discovered the date I received my first drum, which I still have!
• There is a great letter from Jack Regan
• And another great letter from Helen Mulherin
• Ross included an updated mailing list (which I don't have)

Enjoy the old news and have a great month!

Regan Family News Vol 1 #12

Here is the link to RFN Vol 1 #12 May-September 1963

Happy Christmas, New Year, end of the year...all that. I'm happy to be celebrating the fact that I've been able to publish 12 RFN issues in 12 months! Boom!

Since this is the traditional time of reflection, I'll reflect. As Keith Richard would so eloquently state: it's good to be here; it's good to be anywhere! That bit of wisdom always rings true. I'm thankful that I was able to learn more about my family's story in this country and that I was able to meet with family members this year; either by reconnecting or connecting for the first time. I remain inspired by Uncle Ross' great work in assembling the RFN and in his desire to see the family stay linked.

In this latest issue, however, Ross indicates his frustration with getting news from family members. The fact that this issue covers 4 months is indicative of what is to come. And Ross delivers with a full page essay entitled A Frank Question Deserves A Frank Answer. Take a look.

Pages 2 & 3 contain the news, including:

• A feature about the John Leddys
• News about the Livingston Manor addition
• Mary Johnston's European adventure
• The Gundersens invade Lake George (again)
• The Tom Regan women summer at Swago and the house is begun
• Brother Matthew gets a visit
• Helen Mulherin has foot problems
• Sister Elaine is under the weather
• Tree clearing has consequences in Mt. Kisco

Page 4:
Ross again leads a cheer for the RFN. He's begging the family for news! Apparently, he was questioning the whole RFN venture, for he publishes an excerpt from a letter from Dan that reads like a pep talk to keep it going. Ross was deeply committed to keeping the family together, but he consistently had to face the fact that family life in the 2nd half of the twentieth century was really changing. People seemed to have less and less time to write letters. Frankly, that trend only seems to have become exacerbated. Even the act of sending Christmas cards once a year has become a chore!

The computer revolution and the evolution of social media give us new and interesting ways to stay connected. Let's hope we use these new technologies to keep in touch and informed. Meanwhile, best wishes for a happy, fulfilling 2015, everyone!

Regan Family News Vol 1 #11

Here is the link to RFN Vol 1#11 March / April 1963

Here's a suggestion:
Feel free to share news or comments with other family members by posting below or on the Regan Family News group on Facebook. Let us know what's up!

I am continually amazed at Ross' ability to publish this newsletter every two months over the course of 3 years. This issue, the 11th of volume 1, is particularly long, but packed with interesting information.

A quick look at what was happening in the spring of 1963 in our family:

• Ross quips about the newspaper strike and draws a link to its impact on the RFN. Cute.
• The Ross Regan's return from a Mediterranean cruise. Having taken the same cruise last year I could relate. Very interesting read about cruising in the '60's
• Renovations taking place in Bedford Hills and Livingston Manor
• Helen Foote had surgery (Help! Who is Helen Foote?)
• Harry Wellington is travelling
• Brother Matthew takes his vows

Following the news, we have 9 solid pages of single space stories! 

• First up, a continuation of his recollection of the family experience in Brooklyn. He tells the story of his sister, Vera Regan; her experience in school and the working world. It turns out that she had a close encounter with one of NY's most notorious terrorist attacks! Check it out.
• Dan Regan checks in with an interesting story of growing up, attending college, establishing his career, and living in NYC.
  

Finally, Ross leaves us with clear instructions on being published in this august newsletter. Always professional...

Regan Family News Vol 1 #10

Here is a link to Vol 1#10 February, 1963

My Family Tree can be found here. Since it's my tree, it consequently contains many people you won't be interested in. But, don't be intimidated! You will be able to locate yourself and see your immediate family up to 5 generations. I think it's quite interesting and I hope you'll visit it. Frankly, I'd like to enlist your help. In the interest of accuracy, please contact me regarding mistakes I've made or, more importantly, alert me to missing people. Any information you might be able to add would be appreciated and I will be more than happy to make corrections and additions. I'm actually missing a whole generation of great-great grandchildren so I'll recruit your help with that.

Family Tree Directions
Again, by clicking this link and following these directions you'll be able to see your own personal Regan Family Tree!

• When you click the link, you'll see a mini version of my family tree.
• Ignore that and look for the link at the bottom right of the page called Find (353 people). (Yep, that's a lot of people!). The link is adjacent to the little magnifying glass icons.
• Click on the dropdown menu and scroll to find your name! That's right, if you're related to me, you're in there.
• Now, simply click on your name for your personal Regan Family Tree view

Note: When I transferred my tree to this site, some information was lost along the way (mostly birth dates).

Here's what you'll find in Vol 1#10:
Well, we have one of Ross' shortest issues this month, but that doesn't mean that there is a paucity of information. You will find:

• Good reviews regarding the previous issue's new format
• News of the Ross Regan's upcoming travel adventures (including travel on two famous steamships)
• The rest of the issue is dedicated to an editorial on glaucoma and the Regan Family relation to that disease. My mother was afflicted, but I have been spared so far. He makes a (still relevant) argument that our family must be vigilant in having our eyes checked.
• The final page is a map to the home of the Harry Wellingtons. I include it as it was part of this issue.

Regan Family News Vol 1#9

Here's a link to RFN Vol 1#9 January, 1963

Make the most of our blog:

• Want a better view of any of the photos or images you've seen posted on these blogs? 
• Simply click on them and they pop into a new window. Then right click and save
• Looking for former editions of the RFN? 
• Click the Past Regan Family News Editions link up top (just beneath the header)
• Want to make corrections in your contact information? 
• Click on the Contacts link also beneath the header. Then click on the Regan Family Contact Information link to get to our address file
• Want to see Reunion photos?
• Click on 2014 Reunion Photos, again beneath the header
• Wonder where you can find former blog posts? 
• Follow the blog archive in the right hand margin
• Want to  participate by leaving a compliment, complaint, correction? 
• Comments can be added at the bottom of the page

Here's what you'll find in Volume 1#9:

• Family news from:
• Helen and Ray Gundersen, Joan and Harry Wellington, and John Regan's west coast family. 
• I was close with my Aunt Helen and Uncle Ray and I remember my cousin Joan, husband Harry and son Brian. Brian was around my age so we hung out at family gatherings the few times we were together. I'm not sure what became of the Wellingtons but would be interested. And my cousin John Regan's west coast family... I really didn't know any of them, so if anyone has information they'd like to share, I would certainly be interested in hearing it.
• Ross writes an epic 6 page continuation of his reminiscence of life in Brooklyn. There is fascinating stuff here including the story of the three Regan boys vacationing upstate and eventually meeting Roy Johnston.

In other news:

I believe that I've written in the past that I've been doing some genealogical research and that I really haven't uncovered any enlightening information other than what Ross shares in his RFN publications. I have amassed a family tree for my children and I'm working on a way to share the Regan portion of that tree with you all. Look for that next issue and I'll be enlisting your support in updating or correcting any information I might have. 

Have a great September!

Regan Family News Vol 1 #8 and Reunion Review

Here is the link to RFN Vol 1 #8 December 1962

Please check on Contact above and update your contact information

Well, I certainly enjoyed Reunion Weekend and it seemed like I wasn't alone. I noticed that everyone had a busy weekend visiting with many friends and family members and that our event was only a part of everyone's story. Very interesting! It was fun to watch so many people having a good time and enjoying each others company. Here is a link to my photos and Tom Farrell's photos. Enjoy!

I want to thank everyone - the Farrell clan for being such great hosts, the Mulherin boys for all getting together and making the journey to the Manor from out of state, The Regan girls for also travelling from points near and far, Sarah and Catherine Postier for making the journey from New Hampshire, and my two children who planned to participate many months in advance and who were so very happy to meet family members. And a late visit by Nancy and John Johnston really capped off a great day. A great effort all around, folks! Thanks again for making it a special day.

I don't know about you all, but I was fascinated while I watched the interaction of everyone present. I can't help but notice the resemblance all around. I thought it fun to sit around and watch family members talking and interacting. I really have those moments when I tilt my head and get that flash of recognition just watching everyone. I was really struck watching James Leddy and Roy Lotz standing next to each other and chatting. They're 2nd cousins once removed but they share a remarkable resemblance. Interesting..

Speaking of relationships, I was asked a few times "so, are we really related?" "And, how, exactly?"

I guess since I've been scouring the Regan Family News I've assumed the mantel of "family expert?" Well, I do understand the connections and maybe I can give a brief synopsis. It's all about our common ancestors, the subject of the RFN, and my grandparents, Peter and Nellie Regan. But how, you ask, are we related to each other? Well, here are some rules to follow...

• Siblings share parents
• Cousins share grandparents
• Second cousins share great-grandparents etc.
• When common ancestors are shared in a different hierarchy they're "removed"

So... 

• Tom Regan was my cousin and Sarah Postier  and Vera Ann Farrell are my cousins because we share common grandparents - Peter and Nellie Regan. Likewise, the Farrell "kids",  the Mulherin "boys", and Catherine and Bill Postier are cousins, again because they share common grandparents - only in their case it's Vera and Roy Johnston.
• The Regan "girls" are second cousins to the Farrells, Postiers and Mulherins because their common ancestors, Peter and Nellie, are their great-grandparents. In fact, the Leddy kids are second cousins to the Mulherins, Farrells, Postiers and Regans for the same reason.
• And allow me to introduce myself to the Farrells, Regans, Postiers, and Mulherins, and answer your burning question - who is this guy? I am your cousin once removed! Your parents are my cousins and our common ancestors are your great-grandparents and my grandparents - the different hirearchy; hence, once removed. And to pick on Roy Lotz again: when Roy attended Stony Brook University, I had the pleasure of spotting my cousin twice removed around campus! Yep, his grandmother, Vera Ann is my cousin and our common ancestors are great-great-grandparents to him and grandparents to me: twice removed.
• Finally, while there were great-great grandchildren of Peter and Nellie in attendance, were any of them third cousins? The Farrell grandchildren and the Mulherin grandchildren are seconds because they share common grandparents in Vera and Roy Johnston, and the Leddys and Postiers children have no kids yet. So that leaves the Regans. And if I'm not mistaken, there was a Regan great-great grandaughter in attendance. Forgive me for not recalling names and relationships exactly, but I do think we placed in the third cousin sweepstakes, so congratulations all around!

Whew, got that out of the way! Still confused? Well...me too! (I'm just wingin' it)

Now, onto the Regan Family News Vol 1 #8. Here's the link again so you don't have to scroll all the way back to the top of the page!

The highlights:

• The first Christmas issue features something new: a beautiful cover drawn by Kitty Regan.
• Ross' first Christmas greeting to the family
• The Manhassett Regans stay busy
• The Gundersens visit the Manor
• John Regan in Clayton
• Greg Mulherin discovers an "alligator"
• Tom Regan's new road
• Ross' continuing report on the Hollis Regans
• There's information on Kitty Regan's family
• And a great story from Brother Dan Regan. Dan talks about his German roots and wonders what prompted the immigration of the Regans to the US. He assumed it was related to the Famine, and think he was correct, but we know no more now than he wished to know then.

That's enough for now. I hope you get a chance to read the newsletter and take a look at the great photos! Happy rest of the summer to all!

Regan Family News Volume 1 #7

Here is the link to RFN Vol 1 #7

The latest message from Mary Farrell just arrived! It reads:

Looking forward to seeing as many Regans as possible on Sunday July 27 beginning at 1 PM in Livingston Manor. Realize that some of you live too far away but we've got some good RSVPs from the Mulherins (7), Postiers (2 or 3), Farrells (9 or more) and Leddys (4) so it should be a fun day. Taking a page from Swago, we'll have an open house starting at 1 PM and ending whenever. Event will go on rain or shine since Mom/Vera has a lot of space. And honestly, who doesn't enjoy a good summer afternoon thunderstorm.

Let me know if you have any questions or answers!

XXX-- Mary

We thank you for those words of wisdom, Mary and look forward to meeting everyone on the 27th. And congratulations on celebrating your 7th year at Consumer Reports! How did we get anything done before LinkedIn?

I can remember like it was yesterday, sitting in our Waikiki rental and reading your suggestion for a family reunion. That was 6 months ago and it looks like it's really going to happen! Thanks for all your work organizing and thanks especially to Vera Ann for putting up with us all at her lovely home. Btw, any Johnstons attending? 

Our thoughts and prayers are with Sarah Postier as she recovers from surgery. I know we all wish her the best and hope the recovery continues. Stay strong, cousin!

This months issue of the RFN takes up back to Thanksgiving, 1962. Scary times, then. The Cuba missile crisis was fresh in our minds and some of us will remember our "duck and cover" drills. I shudder at the thought. Today's students are doing "lock down drills" so I wonder how much has really changed...

But I digress - on to the news!

The 72nd anniversary of Mom and Pop's wedding also happened in November of 1962 and Ross delivered a gift to the family; the famous photograph of the 50th anniversary celebration held at the Waldorf-Astoria. Here's the notice from the Brooklyn Daily Eagle November 25, 1940:

And here's the photo! Thanks Mom for including my picture in the corner. Felt like I was there!

And...

• The Postiers had visitors from California
• Ann Farrell had an important birthday!
• A new home was being built in the Manor
• Arlene Regan reached a milestone!
• And in addition to other news, Ross continued his extensive family reminiscence, this time about living in Brooklyn
• Finally, there is an 8th page map of how to get to the Mulherens. I think this was not of this issue, but there it is. We'll have to have a contest to see who can guess where it really belongs.

That's all for now. Next up: the Christmas Issue!