Hal Vizino

Have you ever heard of Poughkeepsie, New York? That’s my hometown! It’s located 75 miles north of New York City on the Hudson River. My high school class of 1950 is celebrating its 60th reunion this fall. Following my gradation, I attended Earlham College in Richmond Indiana…a long way from Poughkeepsie!

As my life unfolded, I realized I had been given mane talents and wondered where each would manifest itself in my life.

Music played a dominant role in my life, from taking piano and voice lessons to majoring in music in college. When in Fort Wayne, I belonged to and opera group, performing in some of their productions.

Art was also significant in my life, and became a second college major. I have done some oil painting for my family and friends. This year I will draw my 48th pencil sketch, the number of my married years, for our Christmas cards.

Click to advertise on this website

During my service of duty with the U.S. Army, I was stationed in Germany, with my office being in the Palace of Justice where the Nuremburg Trials transpired. With my roots stemming from Germany, I became immersed in their people, language, and culture.

Following my army experience, I returned to Earlham College where I majored in education. It was there that I met my future wife. We moved to Fort Wayne and became parents of 2 sons. We are now “Opa” and “Oma” to 4 wonderful granddaughters.

My career, spanning 42 years, was divided nearly equally between working for Fort Wayne Community Schools and Parkview Hospital. In 2001, I retired from Parkview and began a new chapter in my life.

I chose to give my time serving various community organizations through volunteering. At NEIRS, I was able to read portions of the newspaper to the blind over the radio. Over a pervious of 36 years, I served on the Allen County Jail Ministry board and met with the inmates through various capacities. I became a docent at the new downtown library when it first opened. At the Ronald McDonald House, located in Parkview Hospital, I served weekly as one of the hosts. Giving back to the community, for me, was a very gratifying experience.

It was during this chapter of my life, that I became interested in writing children’s stories and dedicating them to my four granddaughters. I pursued this interest me enrolling in a 2 year Christian Writer’s Guild program. I four this outlet to be very gratifying, and my granddaughters enjoyed receiving stories tailor –made to reflect their interests.

I have appreciated the opportunity afforded me by Alex Cornwell and Michael Alberico, co-owners and publishers of the Waynedale News, to print my stories. Thank you!