Subject: looking for people Name: holly thompson E-mail address: hthomps [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: cranberry twp Homepage:
#117 Comment (Jun 11 2007, 5:24 EDT):
I am looking for Mark Guerriero. He used to be the opps manager at the Cranberry Twp store, then he
moved to be a field audtior. anyone know how to contact him?
Subject: Hills what great memories Name: Vic Yakin E-mail address: vyakin [at] cochran [dot] com Location: North Huntingdon, PA Homepage:http://www.sendacardfast.com/
#116 Comment (Jun 10 2007, 11:42 EDT):
I love reading this post's. A lot of good memories from 1984 to 1993 (stores 49, 50, 154, 115,
126) involved with Indy store opening by the airport can't remember the number. Also helped
with 181,182, 183, 185, 187 with the Gold Circle buy. Wish we could relive this stuff. Miss
everyone Store 49 was the best!
Subject: Wow! I recoginze a lot of names Name: Edd Riley E-mail address: robert.riley [at] embarq [dot] com Location: Wake Forest, NC Homepage:
#115 Comment (Jun 6 2007, 11:49 EDT):
I came across this site by accident, but what a great way to look back at my 17 years with Hills and
recognize the many names and great times that we had. I worked in all of the Nashville TN stores,
Southeast Ohio, and West Virginia stores as a Store Manager. I also had the Districts throughout
West Virigina, Southeast Ohio, and NE Kentucky.
Remember the slogan " We are Family" !! That was and still is a very true statement.
#114 Comment (Jun 6 2007, 0:05 EDT):
So glad to see so many sharing fond memories.There will truly never be a company like Hill's
again.It was like having an extended family that just grew and grew.
*********Hello Everyone********
Subject: hills Name: mike loudin E-mail address: soul-dreamer [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: morgantown wv Homepage:
#113 Comment (Jun 1 2007, 22:24 EDT):
i worked for hills for over 6 years.. i miss it. why cant someone restart hills???? montgomery ward
did it why cant we??? Just a thought would work for hills in a heartbeat again...
Subject: i still love hills Name: sandy roberson E-mail address: bambuddah1975 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: maryville tn Homepage:
#112 Comment (May 18 2007, 22:39 EDT):
this was my first job out of high school. i worked for the company at store #100. i have many fun
memories of the times at work. the annual fireworks, setting up the seasonal christmas displays,
the hot dogs at memorial and july 4, and the fun in layaway. i am in health care now but would go
back to store #100 if it reopened at hills.
Subject: It's been a while Name: Scott Simon E-mail address: ssimon [at] jwu [dot] edu Location: Canton.mass - Home Office Homepage:
#111 Comment (May 10 2007, 12:40 EDT):
How is everyone.I have only seen a handfull of former employees since i left in '99.I am trying
to reach other former home office employees to talk about old times.please send me an email.
Subject: Saturdays & Hills Name: Aim E-mail address: aim [at] mac [dot] com Location: Sandusky Homepage:
#110 Comment (May 8 2007, 11:25 EDT):
Nothing better than a Saturday morning- 80's style with Mom and little brother driving up the
road to Hills. I think we kept them in business with all of the WWF Wrestlers and Barbies Mom bought
us every weekend. What fun we would have running and hiding from Mom down the large racks of
clothing hanging isle after isle. I can still smell the popcorn!
Subject: lost contact...with bill barrett Name: mark pasquale E-mail address: markp [at] anthonyholdings [dot] com Location: pittsburgh Homepage:
#109 Comment (May 1 2007, 11:14 EDT):
lost contact with several old itime employees!! does anyone know where Bill Barrett is at now? hope
all is well with the many good people i had the pleasure to work with in my 17 yeras with HILLS
Subject: Just a note from a friend Name: Brian E-mail address: Duckpinner [at] cox [dot] net Location: Portsmouth, Virginia Homepage:
#108 Comment (Apr 23 2007, 21:06 EDT):
Although there was never a Hills in my hometown, there were several around the area.There was a
location in Hampton and the store still stands as noone has yet to redevelop it. I even have
pictures. I wanted to get the shipping and receiving sign but someone had spray painted over it. My
first Hills experience was up in Niagara Falls, NY. I liked it and was happy to see them expand into
Virginia.I hate seeing so many Mom & Pop stores becoming extinct.
Subject: Jim DeWeese Name: Annette(Chutko)Maxwell E-mail address: ac813 [at] msn [dot] com Location: Hazleton, PA Homepage:
#107 Comment (Apr 18 2007, 18:19 EDT):
Hi Jim it's been a long time. Hope you and your family are doing well. Wayne and I got married
in 2004 and we built a house here in Hazleton, PA. Drop me a line sometime and let me know what
you're up to.
Subject: HILLS store 60 monroeville pa Name: dana whitfield E-mail address: whijfie [at] aol [dot] com Location: monroeville pa Homepage:
#106 Comment (Apr 15 2007, 20:34 EDT):
hi everyone!
i was excited to see this website. hope to hear from some of the former hills employees! i misss all
you guys so keep in touch if you woked with me at the number 60 store. i worked in main recieving
and stocking for hills department store for 20 years!! i used to buy my daughter all the newest
little clothes from hills when she was a baby and now she's almost 20.....how the time goes
by.... long live hills! [raw][/raw]
Subject: We all miss Hills Name: Carol Hodermarsky E-mail address: gomer1009 [at] att [dot] net Location: Pittsburgh Homepage:
#105 Comment (Apr 14 2007, 19:55 EDT):
Worked at store 58 Bethel Park from 1979 till the very end when we closed at Ames..It was our home
away from home..All the food we made and ate..Breakfasts, Luncheons, Christmas Parties..all our
Hills Family Jim Deery my adoptive brother, or as we were known Beany and Cecil,All the Customes
they put me in..Ran the toy Dept. for 12 years..Funny way I miss it..
Subject: Long live Hills!!! Name: Jerry McCormick E-mail address: jemjr95 [at] aol [dot] com Location: #124 - Danville, VA Homepage:
#104 Comment (Apr 14 2007, 1:19 EDT):
Kicking myself that I can't make the Store #124 in Danville.
Subject: looking for past coworkers Name: george stickle E-mail address: grgstickle [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: kunkletown pa Homepage:
#103 Comment (Apr 13 2007, 23:55 EDT):
worked for hills and ames for 19 years, mostly in ohio. the stores were 3, 5, 14, 26, 52, 115, 174,
176, 179. made alot of friends but have not seen or heard from them in around 6 years. i hope i can
find them.
Subject: worked at hills for 9 years Name: donald king E-mail address: kcoors492 [at] aol [dot] com Location: west mifflin Homepage:
#102 Comment (Apr 13 2007, 19:01 EDT):
I had alot of good times working at hills with jim.m,george,tim,barb,martie(my mom),ed,joan and
theres some i might be forgetting sorry.
Subject: Hills shopper Name: cheryl E-mail address: cherylplummer [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Ky Oh Homepage:
#101 Comment (Apr 11 2007, 23:43 EDT):
I can remember going to Hills as a kid with my parents and then later as an adult. Hills had lots
of cool items and bargains . and the wonderful popcorn and slushies we would always get on the way
out.
the stores today like Walmart just dont have the personality of the stores like Hills or the quality
of stuff
I wish someone could bring back a store like Hills. I miss it
We mostly shopped at the stores in Russell Ky and Chillicothe OH which are now Hobby Lobbys I be
Subject: Old Friends....... Name: Nick E-mail address: nick.padovano [at] hbc [dot] com Location: Nashville Area Homepage:http://batsonw@crye-leike.com
#100 Comment (Apr 11 2007, 14:47 EDT):
I see you are an active visitor to the web site. I love reading about the people from way back
then. I saw you had seen Steve Goldberger...Do you know how to get in touch with him? Also,
Millard and Kim Barron, I would love to be able to reach them as well. Sorry to hear about Jim
Oneil's death. I hope to hear from you at batsonw@crye-leike.com.
#99 Comment (Apr 7 2007, 19:40 EDT):
Jim,a coworker at Target, told me about this website and I couldn't wait to check it
out-it's great!There are so many names I remember from my past!I worked at#89 in West
Mifflin,Pa from 1982until1999(we were Ames by then),and have been at Target since then.Jim
Montgomery-thank you for remembering me.I will be e-mailing you very soon.I hope all of you have had
a good"post Hills"life!
Subject: Hello All Name: Don Burkett E-mail address: dtburkett [at] comcast [dot] net Location: Chicago, IL Homepage:
#98 Comment (Apr 3 2007, 17:34 EDT):
I can't believe the number of friends and former associates I recognize. Wow, Great job Eric.
Bless you all for staying connect and have a great holiday.
Subject: They still miss Hills Name: Jim Deery E-mail address: JTigre99 [at] gmail [dot] com Location: Pittsburgh,PA Homepage:http://www.myspace.com/jtigre99
#97 Comment (Apr 1 2007, 1:26 EDT):
I worked at the Hills#58 in Bethel Park from 1981-1998 and then at Ames until 2002. I work for
Target now and work with a few Hills employees from Century 3 and Kennywood. Sometimes we get
recognized and we still hear how people miss Hills-the last couple was just yesterday! There are a
few who get together every month for dinner (they do it on tuesdays so i can't make it). In
many ways, I guess even I still miss Hills!
Subject: Some More Things... Name: Darren Walchesky E-mail address: iwarrior2002 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Pittsburgh,PA Homepage:http://blog.myspace.com/iwarrior
#96 Comment (Mar 31 2007, 0:15 EDT):
I went into more detail in my blog above. After I left Hills, I worked for St. Francis Medical
Center for over 7 years. I currently work for Scott Electric in Lawrenceville.
Subject: I Worked At A Hills Bethel Park Name: Darren Walchesky E-mail address: iwarrior2002 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Pittsburgh,PA Homepage:http://www.myspace.com/iwarrior
#95 Comment (Mar 30 2007, 23:32 EDT):
Good lord! I found this site completely by chance. I worked at the Hills in Bethel Park (the one off
of Baptist Road across the road from the golf course) from December 1994 to late July 1995, so I
wasn't there that long. I can't remember the store number, sorry. :) My sister Jessica
worked there also with me around the same time. I had much more hair back then.
Subject: Don MIller Name: Ken Hayes E-mail address: haphaze [at] aol [dot] com Location: muskegon, MI Homepage:
#94 Comment (Mar 30 2007, 13:23 EDT):
just wondering if anyone knows of the where abouts of Don Miller the store manager from Muskegon
Michigan, he worked at alot of the stores in the buffalo area.
Subject: I Love this store!!!! Name: Kelsey and Heather E-mail address: doorknobs257 [at] aol [dot] com Location: amherst Homepage:
#93 Comment (Mar 28 2007, 14:14 EDT):
I miss hills. They used to give us free popcorn when were leaving the store. My mom used to say
that all my presents were from santa on christmas, but I saw the Hills price stickers. So maybe
Hills ruined my childhood holiday, or my mother's ignorance, but I still miss and enjoy
remembering our neighborhood hills department store.
Subject: Do you remember "StaffWorks Name: Pat Brown E-mail address: patricia.brown [at] fedex [dot] com Location: Hopewell Township/Aliquippa, PA Homepage:
#92 Comment (Mar 28 2007, 11:10 EDT):
Hills Field Office 1984-close. Worked w/Rich Malachin on StaffWorks. Most people hated it. Rich
& I used to joke that we wouldn't go to the stores without a flak jacket! I "grew
up" @Hills. Lot of us in the same phase: recently married, starting families, kids in school;
made it a great place to work. At FedEx Ground in Moon Twp., work for a Division VP. If I tell
anyone that I worked for Hills, the response is always: "I loved that store! I was so upset
Subject: Steve Berman Name: Jim DeWeese E-mail address: jdeweese [at] sewickleyymca [dot] org Location: Pittsburgh PA Homepage:
#91 Comment (Mar 28 2007, 7:10 EDT):
Does anyone know what Steve Berman is up to? He was my DLPM for some time, and I believe he lived
somewhere near Boardman, OH.
Steve helped me get back to Hills in '95 after I had left briefly to work for Montgomery Ward.
(TERRIBLE!)
I always respected Steve. I hope he is doing well.
Subject: Hello all Name: Jim DeWeese E-mail address: jdeweese [at] sewickleyymca [dot] org Location: Pittsburgh, PA Homepage:
#90 Comment (Mar 27 2007, 9:26 EDT):
Hello to all the former Hills workers.
I worked in #9, #30, #12, #212, #74, and #188. Started as LPM, was hardlines, and ended in
operations.
Many good times, worked with great people.
Anyone out there remember Mike Hupp, GM in #30? Wonder what he is up to. What a guy.
#89 Comment (Mar 26 2007, 13:32 EDT):
when I look back at the time I spent at Hill I think of the other family that was born there. Many
of use were there from start till the end. There was joy and heartach it took us all standing by
each other to make it and we did. This is why this family will alway have a spot in my heart. I
miss you all
Subject: Hello Former Hills Employees Name: Todd Hine E-mail address: thine [at] casham [dot] com Location: Houston Texas Homepage:
#88 Comment (Mar 25 2007, 22:38 EDT):
I was Operations Manager at Indy 153 and Marion, Indiana #62. Married Lee Ann Winsett who was
Softlines Manager in Columbus, Bloomington, and Greenwood, Indiana stores. We have 3 sons and live
outside of Houston Texas in Kingwood. I am Regional Human Resources for Cash America for the past 8
years. The guy who runs this site Eric and I work in the evil empire of HR and LP for Cash America.
Subject: Hills in Boardman Ohio Name: Aaron E-mail address: abero564 [at] aol [dot] com Location: Youngstown Homepage:
#87 Comment (Mar 21 2007, 3:26 EDT):
It's great that you had enough pride in your workplace so many years later to create this site.
Subject: Hello Mike Straka Name: Nick Padovano E-mail address: nick.padovano [at] hbc [dot] com Location: Toronto Homepage:
#86 Comment (Mar 20 2007, 21:54 EDT):
Hey Mike,
Hope all is well with you. I think your right about those prop logs, undoubtedly we all have some
catching up to do on those audits.....lol
Subject: Jim O'Neil Name: Nick Padovano E-mail address: nick.padovano [at] hbc [dot] com Location: Toronto Homepage:
#85 Comment (Mar 20 2007, 21:53 EDT):
It is very sad to hear of Jim's passing. He was an outstanding individual who left his mark on
many of us. Jim also spent some time at my current company, and was well respected by many. I will
be sure to inform them of this sad news.
Subject: Hello Annette Name: nick padovano E-mail address: nick.padovano [at] hbc [dot] com Location: Toronto Homepage:
#84 Comment (Mar 20 2007, 21:51 EDT):
I still keep in touch with Dave Testa and Ed Zimmerlin on a regular basis. Believe it or not, I
had the chance to interact with Steve Goldberger on business issues from time to time a few years
ago. It's amazing how well the former Hills people have done over the years. I generally hear
great success stories. We had a lot of great people in that company!
Subject: Great memories Name: Dan Fox E-mail address: dmfoxes [at] comcast [dot] net Location: 35, 6, FOH, DLPM Homepage:
#83 Comment (Mar 19 2007, 17:52 EDT):
It was a great co. to work for, and a great learning experience. I was the LPM at store 35
Harrisburg, Pa., store 6 in Warren, Ohio, then went to the FOH, then as a DLPM in the state of
Indiana. I worked with a lot of great people in the 8 + years I was there.
Subject: I love Hills! Name: Holly Kesler Curtsinge E-mail address: mantis7nine [at] netscape [dot] net Location: Store # 120 Terre Haute, IN Homepage:
#82 Comment (Mar 19 2007, 13:59 EDT):
I loved Hills! I started as a jewelry associate in high school and worked for 3 years as head
cashier. (1996-1999) It was a wonderful place to grow up and I worked for excellent managers! I
moved to Korea with my Army husband and when I came back, Ames had taken over. Hills #120 had a lot
of good people, and I swear this was the best job I ever had :-) Remember the nametag logo: Hills..
we are family? 120 clearly was family
Subject: Hills #23 Columbus, IN Name: Mike Hayes E-mail address: Pakers6 [at] AOL [dot] com Location: Columbus IN Homepage:
#81 Comment (Mar 18 2007, 16:27 EDT):
Do remember all the good times working for a good company. Oh those were the fun days of retail.
Worked at store #23 for 5 years and did many store sets. Several in Indy, Flint, Michigan and the
take over of the Gold Circle stores in Cincy. A hello to Terry Moore. Still jammin' to Steely
Dan these days??
Subject: steve walsteder or dottie moore! Name: ken hayes E-mail address: haphaze [at] aol [dot] com Location: Muskegon Mi Homepage:
#80 Comment (Mar 18 2007, 8:42 EDT):
Worked at store 114 Evansville Ind, Muskegon Mi, Wyoming Mi, Indianapolis In. looking for any
contacts, i do remember you annette chutko when you worked at the holland store, i was up the street
at the muskegon store 150! what a time and a great bunch of people!
Subject: The passing of Jim O'Neil Name: Eric E-mail address: efritch [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: webmaster Homepage:http://www.hillsstores.com
#79 Comment (Mar 17 2007, 20:06 EDT):
Some sad news regarding one of our former friends at Hills. Jim O'Neil from loss Prevention
passed away on Thursday evening 3-15-07 from a massive heart attack. He is being laid out at the
Bowser funeral home in Homer City, PA
Sunday 3-18-07 2-4pm, 6-8 pm
Service is Monday morning at 11 am at the Funeral Home.
The funeral home # is 724-479-9422
Jim's home address is
Rd #1 Box 167
Rochester Mills, PA 15117
Subject: Name: Mike Straka E-mail address: mstraka [at] essilorusa [dot] com Location: Columbus, OH Homepage:
#78 Comment (Mar 7 2007, 13:09 EST):
Hello to all my old friends at Hills, especially from #44, #128, #99, FOH, and the DC. Mr.
Fritch...your Prop Log looks a little light on card to box layaway audits this month.
Subject: Hello Nick Name: Annette Maxwell/Chutko E-mail address: ac813 [at] msn [dot] com Location: Hazleton, PA Homepage:
#77 Comment (Mar 5 2007, 23:22 EST):
Nick, I thought the name sounded familiar. Glad you're doing well too. Do you ever hear from
any other Hills people? Take care.
Subject: Hello to all Hills survivors!! Name: Nick Padovano E-mail address: nick.padovano [at] hbc [dot] com Location: Toronto, Ontario Homepage:
#76 Comment (Mar 1 2007, 18:16 EST):
Hello to all former Hills associates! It truly was a great company, and I while we have all moved
on, it's very apparent that we share a common bond to the great institution that it once was.
I have the fondest memories of my 18 years of retail at Hills. Would love to hear from any of my
former cohorts, friends, and fellow survivors! Feel free to email me!
Nick Padovano
Subject: Hello Annette Chutko Name: Nick Padovano E-mail address: nick.padovano [at] hbc [dot] com Location: Toronto, Ontario Homepage:
I remember you from days at Hills. I think we were in the same district or something at one point.
Good to hear from you , and glad all is well.
Nick
Subject: I miss Hills!!!! Name: Kathleen E-mail address: kerfoster19 [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: Canada Homepage:
#74 Comment (Feb 22 2007, 11:21 EST):
Used to go to Hills on Delaware in Buffalo NY-all my shopping & holiday stuff-top quality
merchandise and affordable-can't find dress stores and stuff like they carried anywhere!!!!
Gave us something to look forward to-miss them so!!!!!
Subject: Hill's was the BEST Name: Mark Mallen E-mail address: mallenmark [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Charlotte NC Homepage:
#73 Comment (Feb 18 2007, 21:03 EST):
Hills is where the toys are and everthing else that I wanted as a kid.
(another jingle) Hills is the anti inflation department store!
Subject: PennCan Hill's Name: Mike Hepp E-mail address: mjash7981 [at] verizon [dot] net Location: Liverpool, New York Homepage:http://penncanarchives.myphotoalbum.com
#72 Comment (Feb 17 2007, 0:01 EST):
I have a couple of photos that would be good for this site. They are located on page 6 of the photo
website mentioned.
Subject: Great site Name: Plangal E-mail address: plangal2002 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Washington, DC Homepage:
#71 Comment (Feb 16 2007, 15:52 EST):
Not a former employee just a former shopper--well, shopped with my parents as a kid! Got all my
school supplies there and a lot of other stuff too. I remember peeing my pants at one once (in West
Mifflin, PA, I think)...what a mess, sorry about that! :) Typically shopped with my mom in
Greensburg. Loved getting Icees and soft pretzels.
Subject: Old employees of Hills Name: richard upbin E-mail address: richieu11516 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: new york city ny Homepage:
#70 Comment (Feb 14 2007, 15:50 EST):
it's been over 20 years since i left a great company....anyone who remembers me - pls give me a
hello email
Subject: Searching for MILLARD BARRON Name: Wanda Batson E-mail address: batsonw [at] crye-leike [dot] com Location: Nashville, Tennessee Homepage:http://batsonw@crye-Leike.com
#69 Comment (Feb 11 2007, 15:06 EST):
Greatest boss ever!!! Would love to hear from you and Kim!
Subject: DISTRICT OFFICE #75 Name: Wanda F. Eakes-Batson E-mail address: batsonw [at] crye-leike [dot] com Location: Nashville Homepage:http://batsonw@crye-leike.com
#68 Comment (Feb 11 2007, 11:05 EST):
I worked for Hills in the Nashville area for many years. I was District Secretary to Bruce Fosson,
Tony Ponzo (don't want to think about that) Jeff Kerna, Sue Montgomery and many others
throughout the 15 years before the Southern Region closed their doors. (Stores
#70,#71,#75,#78,#82,#83,#85,#88,#92,#118) I made many friends during that time and would like to
hear from you! I miss all of the good times we had!
Wanda Batson 615/474-2445 Please contact me
Subject: The Good 'Ol Days........ Name: Cherie E-mail address: tippytoes_28 [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: Johnstown, PA Homepage:
#67 Comment (Feb 7 2007, 21:21 EST):
I got my first job at Hills Department Store(1988) in Johnstown, PA when the store was located along
Scalp Ave. I was fresh out of high school and was excited about my job. It was a great place to work
for and the prices were just right!! I especially enjoyed the Snack Bar where I would always get a
soft pretzel with nacho cheese...yummy!! I remember dressing as a mascot "Lossie the Dog"
and passing out flyers for saying no to drugs. I really miss this store!
Subject: Hi Larry Shook! Name: Pam Richards E-mail address: pjr0813 [at] cs [dot] com Location: Harrisburg, PA Homepage:
#66 Comment (Feb 7 2007, 17:03 EST):
Hi everyone! I had been one of the store managers at #39, #128, #133, and finally #35 (from 1989 -
1998) and loved Hills and the great people I met along the way. I currently work for the State of PA
as an auditor and refer to this as my 'retirement' and Hills as 'my prior life'!
Larry, thanks for telling my daughter about this site ... it's great to relive the "Get
more sales, have more fun" era.
Subject: I miss Hills! Name: Joey C. Brown E-mail address: girlyrat [at] gmail [dot] com Location: Flatwoods, Kentucky Homepage:
#65 Comment (Feb 4 2007, 20:12 EST):
Hills was such a great place. I loved their stuff, their prices, their red shopping carts, and the
snack bar at the front of the store - popcorn, hotdogs, and best of all, the red slushies :9
Ames was never as good as Hills. Too bad it had to go.
#64 Comment (Jan 31 2007, 23:01 EST):
Just found out about this site from a fellow Hills manager that works for my current company.
Thought I'd say Hi to anyone that might know me out there. I still miss Hills, but am working
with Staples now. I worked in many stores during my days with Hills. (York,Pa, Holland, MI,
Columbus,OH, Marietta,OH and Bridgeport, WV.)
Subject: Store 49 Name: Donya McGinnis E-mail address: donyaamcginnis [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: PA Homepage:
#63 Comment (Jan 31 2007, 22:57 EST):
Hello everyone Frm store 49 I miss you all
Subject: Hills Home office in Canton Name: Patricia Murphy (Aqui) E-mail address: patricia-aqui [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: Brockton, Ma Homepage:http://www.hillsstores.com
#62 Comment (Jan 28 2007, 9:18 EST):
I worked in the Home office for 28 years. I recognized alot of names on these contact emails. I run
into former employess all the time. We've got to get a reunion party going. Maybe late 07 or
sometime in 08. Now that I know this site is here, I will keep checking it.
Subject: Just saying Hi. Name: Jim Eckenrode E-mail address: JRErode [at] aol [dot] com Location: Nashville Tn Homepage:
#61 Comment (Jan 10 2007, 20:49 EST):
It's been quite a while.Started in H'burg Pa,#35,then #31,then #43,the
#78,#75,#78,#97,#22,#197,#22 at the end.Mine not Hills. Larry,Terry,Bill,Joe,Jack,all my Am's
over the years.Keep on keeping on.DeMarchis...got any good used cars?[raw][/raw]
Subject: Reunion store #124 Name: Trellis Walters E-mail address: rontrel [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Danville, Virginia Homepage:
#60 Comment (Jan 9 2007, 14:02 EST):
We are planning a reunion of the former Hills Deparment Store employees Danville, Virginia
store#124. The reunion will be held in Danville on Sat. April 21, 2007 at the Ryan's
Restaurant. Any manager or former employee, please send your adrress and pictures. Hope to hear
from you soon.
Thanks!!!!!!
Subject: LOOKING FOR CO-WORKERS FROM #089 Name: JAMES MONTGOMERY E-mail address: UNGABUNGABINGAA [at] YAHOO [dot] COM Location: MCKEESPORT,PENNSYLVANIA Homepage:
#59 Comment (Jan 6 2007, 20:45 EST):
CINDY JENKINS,WAYNE SMITH,TRISH STRANG,DONNA HOFFMAN,JANET KNOCH,MELISSA DAVIS,MARGARET
MASLOWSKI,DONNA STOCK,MIKE,DEBBIE ONDRISH,JIM WILSON,ROY OPFER,KAREN,SHARON KLIMKOS,CATHY BANEY, MY
FIRST MANAGER THERE,GIGI TRASK, I WORKED AT HILLS 1 WEEK,GREW VERY ATTACHED TO GIGI,AND THEY
TRANSFERRED HER,ED FRONAPPLE,JILL BEDNAR,AMBER YENERALL,ESTHER MCCALLUM,LOIS ELM,1THING I LIKED
ABOUT AMES WHEN THEY KILLED HILLS WAS OUR FIRST MANAGER,RUTH LUSZKA,AND JUST 2 MANY MORE PEOPLE TO
NAME.
#58 Comment (Jan 1 2007, 21:59 EST):
Thinking about old times and hoping everyone enjoyed the Holidays. Miss all the people that I worked
with over the years, wondering what you all were up to! Take Care
Subject: Hills # 36, Horseheads NY Name: Robert Price E-mail address: vicdoc160 [at] stny [dot] rr [dot] com Location: Horseheads NY Homepage:
#57 Comment (Dec 31 2006, 0:31 EST):
Looking for anyone that worked at this store, work now for JC Penney, was freight
handler/ticketer/hanger in those daysmany names escape me except George Oakden as we work together
again at penneys.
Subject: HEY JOHN DEEGAN Name: Robert A E-mail address: icb [at] aol [dot] com Location: Wv Homepage:
#56 Comment (Dec 27 2006, 7:14 EST):
HEY John Remember SPUD LOL>>>>>>!
And that crazy softlines manager we had who landed in jail and
said "get me out of here there is mean people in here !"
Subject: Hi Name: Bob Stevenson E-mail address: bobs56 [at] verizon [dot] net Location: Ellwood City, Pa Homepage:
#55 Comment (Dec 26 2006, 13:11 EST):
Hi all;
I was the LPM at Store #9 from 1978 to 1982. I have kept in touch with some people. Have a nice
Holiday Season all and remember Hill's is where the toys are! And at our anti-inflation prices,
you always get the best deal. Write back if you remember me
[raw][/raw]
Subject: WHAT FUN! Name: JOHN DEEGAN E-mail address: steeldeegs [at] comcast [dot] net Location: COLLEGVILLE, PA Homepage:
#54 Comment (Dec 22 2006, 13:48 EST):
Fritch is webmaster & Twigg supplies pictures?
It's deja vu! I randomly type Hills today during the crazy season-what a surprise!
I see familiar names in posts & I'm pretty sure I saw my mug in a couple of pics. Started
w/Hills in '83 & spent 10 great yrs. Still talk about exp's & knowledge the co
provided. Recalling store#'s-56,18,126, Mansfield, Heath, Baden+several more. Opened new stores
in Columbus & the never forgotten open
Subject: Anybody here from Beckley?? Name: Sherri Ferguson E-mail address: sherri_rykiel [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: cahrleston,wv Homepage:http://http://www.myspace.com/140835336
#53 Comment (Dec 21 2006, 13:26 EST):
just wonderin if anyone still alive and kickin from hills in beckley wv. I worked nights as cashier
and then layayway from about 1983 - 1986. Remember me? give a shout!
Subject: Seeking Don Spiegel Name: Eric E-mail address: efritch [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: FL Homepage:
#52 Comment (Dec 20 2006, 15:06 EST):
If anyone has any contact info for Don Spiegel, former regional audit manager and store manager,
please send it to me at efritch@hotmail.com. Thanks!
Subject: HILLS Name: Cindy Clarke E-mail address: clarke7915 [at] sbcglobal [dot] net Location: Bloomington, In Homepage:
#51 Comment (Dec 17 2006, 14:33 EST):
I miss Hills. It makes me sad that Hills has gone forever. Hills had everything. It was my only
place to shop. I use to love to get the Icies, and nachos, I love that they had layaway. It was a
fun store.
#50 Comment (Dec 14 2006, 19:42 EST):
was thinking about the crazy old christmas days at hills
Subject: Store 160 Name: Ruth Ann Shultz E-mail address: rashultz2002 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Mentor, OH Homepage:
#49 Comment (Dec 14 2006, 13:38 EST):
Started with Hills in the Mentor, OH store and went with Ames to Willowick, Bedford and Middlefield
where I helped close the door for the last time. Those were the days!
Subject: Stores 7, 31, 141 & SSC Name: Scott Kovaloski E-mail address: skovaloski [at] comcast [dot] net Location: Pittsburgh, PA Homepage:
#48 Comment (Dec 13 2006, 19:08 EST):
For me, Hills was a great place to start a career. The experiences and learning opportunities I
encountered there gave me a solid foundation for future career growth. I worked in the stores for
two years then moved to Corporate HR (Benefits) in Canton, MA. I survived the bankruptcy and
decided to leave in Dec-1993. Hills had lots of great people. I have many fond memories -- I still
miss the "sample sales" that were held at the SSC from time-to-time!
Subject: Jack Reen Name: Jill Reen E-mail address: Bostongal1 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Norwood, MA Homepage:
#47 Comment (Dec 13 2006, 10:21 EST):
Just writing to thank everyone for the notes of sympathy for my sisters and I. My Dad worked for
Hills before I was born until I was 18 or 19. Hills was a huge part of our life. We used to go to
the office (Canton, MA) with him on Saturdays. I'm sure we drove him crazy.
Would love to hear from anyone else who knew my dad.....Thank you and Happy Holidays.
#46 Comment (Dec 10 2006, 17:48 EST):
I worked in store #31 from 1984-1994. We had a terrific store and I still have people come to me and
say how much they miss Hills in Lebanon,Pa. Maybe someday there'll be another Hills chain.
Subject: Hill's Baden & #50 Robi Name: Dyan Waxler E-mail address: dyan.waxler [at] comcast [dot] net Location: Pittsburgh, PA Homepage:
#45 Comment (Dec 7 2006, 15:43 EST):
I worked through college, and loved my time spent there. I learned alot, and loved the family
atmosphere. Anyone from the stores can reconnect with me. I worked from '87-91'.
Subject: Hill's Charleston West Virg Name: Marsha Burdette E-mail address: hayleysmommy92 [at] aol [dot] com Location: Charleston Wv Homepage:
#44 Comment (Dec 6 2006, 1:01 EST):
I really miss Hill's! I remember they had the best popcorn you could buy at the fron of the
store. My fiance worked at a Hills store. I remember too the Jeff Gordan doll they sold. it was a
hills exclusive. The doll sold out very quick, but I tried my best to find one for my daughter and
did so about 50 miles away..lol.. i had the sales associate to hide it for me and let me drive there
and pick it up. ill nevr forget that day, it was pouring down the rain and my wipers only wo
Subject: hills syracuse ny Name: s.wilson E-mail address: shubbadirl [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: syracuse ny Homepage:
#43 Comment (Dec 1 2006, 15:08 EST):
i miss hills dept store they had they best food ,i got my first pair of roller skates from there it
was a favorite of mine and my sister!
Subject: frozen coke memories Name: lauren E-mail address: onedeckgrl [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: Berkeley, CA Homepage:
#42 Comment (Nov 30 2006, 22:53 EST):
I grew up in Youngstown, Ohio. My mom would take my younger sister and I shopping at the Hills on
Belmont Avenue. She put everything in layaway for chirstmas. (Hills is where the toys are).
I remember tipping my sister over in a shopping cart on accident there. Mom was not happy. I also
have fond memories of the frozen coke machine at the front of the store.
man. those where the days.
Subject: Store #9 Name: Cathy Barnhart E-mail address: cathybarnhart [at] sbcglobal [dot] net Location: East Liverpool, OH Homepage:
#41 Comment (Nov 29 2006, 23:17 EST):
I see our old store everyday. I work across the street at Autozone. The plaza has changed over the
years. The most recent change ... the stock room is gone. It was torn down this year and several
new stores have been built in it's place and have recently opened.
This site is a really nice idea. I think I still have some Hills memorabilia. If I come across it
I will send it in.
Cathy "with a C"
Subject: Remembering Hills: Champion, OH Name: Rob E-mail address: pahootaman [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: Cleveland, Ohio Homepage:
#40 Comment (Nov 29 2006, 16:29 EST):
I remember growing up in Warren Ohio and always going to the nearest Hills department store in
Champion (Right across from the Kent State Trumbull Campus). I remember the awesome popcorn that my
mom would always buy me. I'll miss collecting the football teams helmet shushie cups and waking
up early the day after thanksgiving to be one of the limited amount of people to receive a Hills
christmas tree ornament.
Subject: STORE #7 Name: ROBIN KAUFFMAN (HANSF E-mail address: rara42 [at] comcast [dot] net Location: dover pa Homepage:
#39 Comment (Nov 27 2006, 19:58 EST):
Love to see more people from store #7 to write.[raw][/raw]
Subject: Store #50 then 49 Name: Kathy Vignone E-mail address: kjv1958 [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: Pittsburgh Homepage:
#38 Comment (Nov 26 2006, 21:35 EST):
I started at 50 in 1976, this was even before it became know as Fort Windgap. 50 was later moved to
Robinson. From there I went to 49 which was at the time becoming 1049. Everyone stay in touch to
keep the memories alive!
Subject: Store #103 Huntington WV Name: Darlene Lewis E-mail address: dlewis6414 [at] charter [dot] net Location: Wayne, WV Homepage:http://www.marykay.com/darlenelewis
#37 Comment (Nov 22 2006, 16:43 EST):
I started at Store #103 before the store opened. I am now a Mary Kay Sales director full time and
LOVE IT!!! But I sure have alot of wonderful memories from my days at Hills. That's where I
working when I gave birth to my wonderful daughter. Found some of the best friends anyone could ever
have so many I could go on for pages.
If anyone ever worked at #103 please e-mail me I'd love to hear from you.
If you want a GREAT CAREER and be your own boss, just let me know
Subject: Name: Joey Patterson E-mail address: smallmouth39305 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Meridian, MS Homepage:
#36 Comment (Nov 15 2006, 13:11 EST):
I was with Hill's staring in the summer of 1984 and left in the summer of 1990 after graduating
college to pursue a real job! I started out as part time maintanence and then graduated to full
time day shift maintanence with a few stints doing the overnight stuff - I miss most of the folks
but I do not miss the messy bathrooms and dirty floors - neither of which would ever become clean
without dynamite.
Subject: STORE 49 Name: LISA E-mail address: DAISY75 [at] COMCAST [dot] NET Location: CANONSBURG Homepage:
#35 Comment (Nov 11 2006, 19:57 EST):
HI AL!! I was with DSW for 6 years, I quit in June... to help my sister who was seriously hurt back
in 4/06 but will be going home in 2 weeks. So now I'm job hunting again...trying to stay FAR
away from retail. I keep in touch with McKelvey, Liz, and Kathy Vignone, Shirley, Donnas C & F,
Chris Eckles and sometimes I hear from Tim Gallagher by e-mail. Isn't this site most most
wonderful thing? P.S. Barb Bacu, Carol Katrencik and Sharon Hareza are are working at DS
Subject: Name: Dean Whipple E-mail address: deanjan_w [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Wausau Wisconsin Homepage:
#34 Comment (Nov 10 2006, 9:39 EST):
Started in Lower Burrell Pa and ended up in Grand Rapids Mi. where I met my current wife and best
friend. I cannot believe it has been 16 years since I worked at Hills. After all these years I still
miss the people I worked with.
#33 Comment (Nov 9 2006, 12:07 EST):
I worked as a Softlines Manager in stores 44, 98, 50 and 101. I spent 3 great years in store 50
(90-93) with a great bunch of people.
Subject: Hills Store #'s 23, 150, 17 Name: Terry Moore E-mail address: 722739 [at] comcast [dot] net Location: Indianapolis, IN Homepage:
#32 Comment (Nov 7 2006, 23:22 EST):
What's up, people? I found a very old business card from Charla Fraley (who hired me), which
prompted me to scout around online, and here I am!
I worked in Columbus, OH, Muskegon, MI, Defiance, OH, Cambridge, OH, Maumee, OH and did many store
sets, mostly in Michigan.
I would love to get in contact with anyone who knew and remembered me. Email me!
Subject: Hills Department Store #49 Name: Cathy Keating E-mail address: Keatingcath [at] peoplepc [dot] com Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Homepage:
#31 Comment (Nov 3 2006, 18:07 EST):
HI Everyone? I worked for Hills #49 from 1975 until the end then Ames for a few months. I just
found out about this site yesterday, so i decided to come on to see what's its all about. I
really miss Hills, had alot of great memories.
Subject: Found Jim Kratz Name: Wes McDonough E-mail address: robwes [at] cox [dot] net Location: San Diego, CA Homepage:
#30 Comment (Nov 3 2006, 17:15 EST):
Thanks to this site (and Internet People Finders) I was finally able to track down Jim Kratz.
T'was great to catch up on our lives over the 13 year gap. Now if I could only locate Bill
Schwartz.
Subject: Hello Name: Frank Coutinho E-mail address: FDCoutinho [at] aol [dot] com Location: Wells, ME Homepage:
#29 Comment (Nov 3 2006, 12:43 EST):
I was at the home office in Canton from 1084 until it closed. Like everyone who worked for Hills,
the years were unforgetable as were all the friends or family.
I lost my wife in 2000. I got married this past August. I moved from Carver, MA to Wells, ME. The
change is far from drastic in fact this area in Maine in almost a mirror image of Carver/Wareham.
Thanks to all for the great times and the friendships. Feel free to write me at FDCoutinho@aol.com.
Subject: Hills Name: Trish E-mail address: Patricia_stratigias [at] hotmail [dot] com Location: PA Homepage:
#28 Comment (Oct 30 2006, 23:31 EST):
My gram worked at hills and I loved that place.
I am sad now.
Hills is were the toys are.
Subject: Store 44/50 and the FOH Name: Gregg Palermo E-mail address: gpalermo [at] idlpop [dot] com Location: Pittsburgh Homepage:
#27 Comment (Oct 30 2006, 13:45 EST):
I had the pleasure of working with many good people at Store #'s 44, 50, and the Field Office.
Subject: Used to love hills Name: Greg Charles E-mail address: phanstar330 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Marion, IN Homepage:
#26 Comment (Oct 28 2006, 20:45 EDT):
I used to love hills when I was a kid. I certainly did know it was "Where the Toys are."
Man I have some great memories of going there to spend my allowance, and buy new action figures or
video games....
Subject: STORE 90 Name: Gary Clark E-mail address: indycoltsfannn [at] aol [dot] com Location: Indianapolis,In Homepage:
#25 Comment (Oct 24 2006, 22:02 EDT):
I worked at store 90 in anderson,in. it was really cool.im still in retail.Now with target.
Subject: HILLS DEPT STORE #46 Name: Kim Malik E-mail address: maliknlk [at] windstrem [dot] com Location: Elyria Ohio Homepage:
#24 Comment (Oct 23 2006, 13:15 EDT):
Looking for anyone who worked in the Hills in Elyria. I worked there for 11 years
Subject: Irondequoit NY curse Name: Christopher Chance E-mail address: atomicrooster242 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Rochester NY USA Homepage:
#23 Comment (Oct 22 2006, 22:16 EDT):
Our Irondequoit (Rochester) NY store was particularily CURSED. It was built as a GOLD CIRCLE in the
late 1970's. Was changed into a Hills in 1984-1992. Then it became a CALDOR, it did not last
long, about 1994-5?? Anybody can correct me. Now it was totally demolished, and replaced with a HOME
DEPOT.
Subject: Hills 49 Name: Donna Coulter E-mail address: donnacoulter [at] verizon [dot] net Location: Cecil, Pa. Homepage:
#22 Comment (Oct 19 2006, 20:15 EDT):
Hi to all the former Hills' employees....I worked at Hills 49 from 1978 until they closed....I
sure miss it but most of all miss ALL of the wonderful people that worked there....thanks Eric for
setting up this site....God Bless all of you
Subject: Name: Gary Cohn E-mail address: gacmdc [at] msn [dot] com Location: Buffalo, NY Homepage:
#21 Comment (Oct 17 2006, 8:44 EDT):
I had the pleasure (?) of working with/for Tim Conlon, Mike Straka and Dave Fletcher at the Field
Office back in the early 90's. At times it was hectic, but always fun.
Subject: Hills Cincinnati Name: Debbie Platz E-mail address: dplatz623 [at] yahoo [dot] com Location: Cincinnati OH Homepage:
#20 Comment (Oct 16 2006, 12:23 EDT):
I moved from Hills in Johnson City TN to new store in Cincinnati.
We stayed in Cincinnati when the stores closed. I remember lots of friends from those days!
Subject: Hills in IN,OH,PA,VA. Name: Chris Feagler E-mail address: christopher.feagler [at] staples [dot] com Location: Yorktown VA. Homepage:
#19 Comment (Oct 15 2006, 9:35 EDT):
I started in Hills 69 Kokomo Indiana as a boxer in layaway 18 years later I left as a General
Manager. Remember the final pick up days in layaway and our free layaway promotions. :) After I left
Hills I went to Staples and have been with them ever since. I'm now a District Manager for
Staples and have had great ride with Staples so please anyone reading this memo help support my
family and buy all your Office Supplies at Staples its EASY. :)
Subject: Hills #178 Name: Dennis Lengel E-mail address: pasjohnson [at] iwon [dot] com Location: North Olmsted, Ohio Homepage:
#18 Comment (Oct 15 2006, 4:15 EDT):
Hills #178 (in North Olmsted, OH) was a former Gold Circle. It opened in early 1989. I worked in
receiving & RTM from November 1990 to August 1998 (with a couple of "off" periods in
early '91 and most of '94). It quite literally defines the 1990's for me. Though it
didn't pay well, I've never felt as comfortable at a job as I did in the back room of
Hills. Please read my entry in the "old" guestbook (page 4 of 59, dated 8/15/06).