Robert Ficken:  

Grew up with my three younger sisters on Haley Street in Newark. Was in cub scouts, boy scouts, and had a paper route from age 11 to age 14. First "real" job at 16 was working the grill at Red Barn restaurant in the Irvington District of Fremont for $1.35 an hour, which was minimum wage at the time. Attended Newark High on Lafayette from 1970-71 (Freshman) year through June 1974. Played tennis for Newark High all four years, played basketball for two years, played water polo one year, and played football for three years. Played little league baseball every summer from age 11 to age 15. I remember playing baseball with Mike Sexton and Eddie Balentine, along with Les Evangelista. Worked on the school newspaper and yearbook with Mr. Keith. Hung out with Randy Hester, Richard McMahon, Brando Spikes, Steve Cooper, and more. Liked many girls in high school, but won't embarrass them or myself by mentioning any names! Had enough units to graduate after three years, but decided I did not want to miss out on Senior Ball and all that, ...Expand for more