Valerie Russo Going

Where Am I?

Goodyear, Arizona

What Am I Doing?

Husband retired, we came here and are enjoying the life here. We love to cruise and have taken many. But, have been unable to take any in the past 2 years due to health problems, and the fact that I can not fly at the moment because of them.

What About My Family?

I have four children. Ken Jr. is married and has 2 children. Courtney who is 18 and going off to the University of Georgia in August and Danny who is 13.

Kevin is married and has 3 daughters. Sharon is 12, Erin is almost 10 and Kate is 6.

Keith is married and has 2 daughters. Hannah is 10 and Natalie is 5. They are the only ones who live in Arizona also.

Kimberley is married and has 2 children. Zacharey is 12 and Amanda is 10.

Two years ago we took them all (we numbered 19 altogether) on an Alaskan cruise. It was one of the few times all nine grandkids were together and we had the best vacation ever. Two of our children chose to go to Anchorage early and take the Denali tour. Sorry I didn't do that the first time we went to Alaska.

What Else Keeps Me Occupied?

I love to read and cook. And I used to enjoy playing golf (that health issue again). I have played all over the country and am glad I had the opportunity to do that.

My Message to the Class of '57:

I wish I could have been there to join all of you. It would have been fun to see what everyone has done and is doing now.

I have always thought that I was lucky to grow up in what I think was the best town in the country. I have many fond memories from those days. And, all the opportunities that we had that few kids were able to enjoy. I especially remember the trips to the city that the music department took us on. The Metropolitan Opera House, and the senior choir going into the city for the holidays to entertain the travelers. Or, the Broadway plays we had the chance to see.

It was also a kinder life then. I think people were more tolerant of everyone elses backgrounds, religion etc. I knew people from far away and some who had lived there forever. You didn't care who had the most of anything.

If there was one thing I would want the members of my class to do, it would be to see that their grandchildren (I am assuming it is too late for the children) do not smoke. That is the main reason I am having health issues. I am very fortunate that none of my children smoke and they wouldn't even date someone who did. Ah, they are much smarter than their parents.

Enjoy your lives and your families. Do things now while you are still able to. And enjoy this wonderful land we live in.