Agee Shelton ‘32 #103

Before anyone wonders if we have a pipeline to the Nu Alpha Phi Cabin in the sky, let me assure you that this letter is from the Oak Leaf files ...

Fairly early in the game, Zib ran into two of the biggest hulks on the other team, and seemed to be momentarily stunned. He soon got up, however, and trotted back to the huddle, waving his arms a bit. He was given the ball again, and this time roared through the whole team for a touchdown.

When he came back to the bench while the other team had the ball, he sounded a little incoherent to me, but in those days it was sometimes hard to distinguish between Zib's incoherence and his enthusiasm.

We soon had the ball back, and Zib took the field again, and as he went into the huddle, started shifting from one foot to the other, and someone beside me wondered who that dervish was. Someone else thought that he needed a bathroom break, but we then decided that someone must have stepped on his foot. In any event, they gave him the ball again, and off he went, like a maniac, for another touchdown.

It wasn't long before Zib had bulled his way through the other team for a third touchdown, by which time the coach decided something must be wrong and pulled Zib out of the game.

Zib sat beside me on the bench and asked me if I knew why the coach had benched him. I told him that it just wasn't fair to the other team, that he was making a shambles of the game, and the coach was afraid that if he didn't hurt the other people, he might hurt himself. I told him about his three touchdowns, but Zib hadn't the slightest recollection of any 'of it. As his common sense began to return, the import of his exploits began to sink in, and although he was suffering a pretty good headache by then, he wanted me to assure him that he had racked up 18 points for us in very short order. We won the game by 34 to nothing.

You may wonder why Zib didn't get the Heisman Trophy that year, I can say that I am fairly sure he would have except that they hadn't started the award by 1928.

Fraternally, Agee

Bob Dozier '23 #3

At long last we have gotten around to honoring the real hero of Nu Alpha Phi.

He is the one, above all others, who has kept the older alumni brothers and the newer alumni brothers and the active pre-alumni brothers informed about each other.

We thank you, Zibbie, for your countless contributions to the honor and the glory of Nu Alpha Phi.

Ken Smith `33 #138

I met Zib 68 years ago when I was still in high school. He was a close friend of my brother Wint #106 and Zib was #109 in 1930. I entered Pomona as a junior in 1931 and Zib was my first contact with the fraternity. Zib was an Eagle Scout in the twenties which was very special in those days. He was a proclaimed bachelor who enjoyed classical music and was an avid reader of the early philosophers. He pictured himself in later years sitting by the fire with his dog, his pipe, and a good book while listening to his music. This background made Zib a natural nostalgic enthusiast to perpetuate the spirit of Nu Alpha Phi. After graduation his interest continued to grow with the closeness of so many outstanding fraternity brothers. During the next 65 years Zib has contributed thousands of hours organizing and promoting activities to strengthen the spirit of Nu Alpha Phi.

We are all indebted to you, Zib. Thank you for everything.

Fraternally, Ken

HOLD THAT TIGER—From early on in his Pomona career Zibby had a controlling hand in planning the annual Pep Rally for the Big Game against Occidental. Word has it to this day he will not tolerate the color orange in his presence. His stern expression in this 1930 Metate photo no doubt stems from the offending color of the unwitting photographer's person.

Carol Gonzalez, Pomona College, Alumni Records & Relations

I had been on the job less than six weeks when I first had the pleasure of meeting Walt Zabriskie...this nice gentleman with such a smiling face and pleasant voice. He modestly told me of his association with the Oak Leaf, gave me the updated addresses he'd brought with him and left. I remember remarking to my co-worker, "What a nice person to personally drop off all this great information...but what on earth is a Nappie?"

Thank you Walt for all you do to make my job easier. Everyone should be so blessed to have someone as nice as you visit their office on a regular basis...and I hope you continue to come by for many more years.

Paul Taylor `37 #181

Dear Paul,

Peggy and I have been away in the East for the last two weeks; hence my delay in dropping you a note about the inimitable "Zibby" Walter Zabriskie. Words are simply inadequate for me to express my appreciation for all the things that Zibby has helped me with over the years. I surely remember the wonderful poker games at the Rosslyn Hotel and our many get togethers. Even in those early days if you wanted to make sure everything was taken care of, you got a hold of Zibby or Ken Smith.

One of the highlights of my association with Zibby was our wonderful boat trip to Poland, Russia, and the Iron Curtain countries. I'll always remember the high point of this trip in Poland when tears came to Zibby's eyes when he found the location where he had his family roots. It was a great trip on a Russian ship and we all had plenty of vodka to help us enjoy the festivities.

Another event I remember is that, as you know, Zibby, our Polish poet laureate, is very fond of the works of Bobby Burns. We were talking one day and Zibby mentioned that he had worn out the book thumbing through it and reading it for so many years. He asked me to keep my eyes open for another copy. Fortunately, on one of my trips to England I was in Oxford and was able to pick up a copy for Zibby. I will always remember how happy he was when I presented it to him.

More recently I've had a chance to work closely with Zibby as we've attempted to bring about a new renaissance between the actives and Nu Alpha Phi alumni. Again, words are inadequate to tell you how much Zibby does and works for the fraternity. He's always there with a ready hand and a thoughtful suggestion on how to work things properly. It's a real pleasure for me to join with all the other brothers who I know, recognize, and appreciate what a great and devoted brother we have in Walter "Zibby" Zabriskie.

Warmest personal regards and fraternally yours, Paul

Tom Warren `29 #49

Dear Alumni and Actives,

There is only one man who is able to make contact with both groups of fraternity men and women. The one man is Zabriskie. He has won the hearts of both groups and is active with both groups. We all honor him, thank him, and appreciate more than words can express. I am glad to join with the 1200+ members of Nu Alpha Phi in expressing a thank you to Zibby.

May he live forever in our minds as we wish him good health for his next 100 years.

Fraternally yours, Tom

Jim Tesitor `52 #367

Dear Zibby,

Years ago as we were exchanging letters, I began to realize you must be a very special person. However, I did not recognize the enormity of your personal character.

I do now, with great respect.

You made me aware that being a Nappie was not just during the years at college. It was then, yes, indeed, but also always.

The Oak Leaf staff members have done a remarkable service through the years, of keeping fraternity members informed in the many ways you have always responded to the "call." Would we all strive to emulate your example.

Thank you for your devoted loyalty to NAP. We are all richer because of you.

I am proud to be your fraternity brother and friend.

God bless, Jim

OAKCAKE—Oh-so-manly early Thirties Nu Alphs and Alums disport their hunky, shirtless frames at a healthy, rough-n-tumble cabin gathering. Decades before society would collectively sigh “Fabio,” Zib Zabriskie, front and center, makes with the heart-throb along with (l to r) the decorously undershirted Ken Smith (who seemed to know this shot would get an airing some day), Bob Shelton, Bert Adams, Walton Smith, Markey Stanton, Zib, Wint Smith, John Alman, and Gordon Pettit.

Frank Wheat `42 #234

Dear Paul,

Our fraternity means a lot to all of us--companionship, higher education in the lofty arts of dealer's choice poker, memorable campouts, loyal friends through life--but I know Nu Alpha Phi means more to Zibby than to anyone else.

So it is with humility in the face of all he has done for us that I happily pay my tribute to Zib, source of that gentle but persistent glue that makes all the more secure the ties that bind us together.

Steve Zetterberg `38 #177

Dear Paul,

In the days when old timers were getting to know the new student mix of brothers and sisters, NAP had candlelight dinners in our back yard.

Those who came will remember that we border on the Botanical Gardens--like being in the country, and that our pool reflects sunset sky and twilight candles. But mostly we will remember Zibby, always our maitre d'. Beans frijoles, plugged in to keep them hot! Salads! He brought them and served us like a veteran chef.

Remember in those days some old timers were doubtful about women members. Well, he smoothed the way as host par excellance.

Thanks, Zibby! I wait, hoping you will do it again!

Burdette Boileau `34 #125

Dear Paul,

First of all, I want to congratulate both you and Chris on the outstanding job you are doing keeping all of us Nappies in touch with each other and our campus.

I am so pleased to hear that you are planning a special surprise issue acknowledging Zibby, for it has been his dedication that has kept the Oak Leaf alive and I am sure, the inspiration for you and Chris to perpetuate this fine tradition.

Zibby was a sophomore when I entered college and my first memory of him was as the exuberant and enthusiastic cheerleader whose antics led us to strain our vocal cords beyond their capabilities at whatever event he was cheering us on.

I have always had the highest admiration for Zibby and his dedicated loyalty to our fraternity.

With warm fraternal regards, I remain, Burdette

Steve Glass `57 #460

Over the years--and they are disquietingly many now--my file of personal correspondence with Zibby has grown to substantial proportions, and yet, what seems to me to be the most salient characteristic of this consummate Nappy has never wavered a jot from the first letter to the last. No matter what the issue, or what the crisis, or what the bone of contention, Zib's love for and support of the fraternity has always been steadfastly unconditional. Nu Alpha Phi has shifted certain postures over the years, changing with changing times, as living entities are properly wont to do. At such moments, where some others of his generation--and mine too--have not infrequently assumed sullen and proprietary positions on just what the fraternity ought or ought not to be doing with itself, Zib has quietly but insistently encouraged only productive reflection and exchange among the membership. I am more than certain that Zib has had his own hard thoughts about these issues, but has chosen to keep quiet counsel, in order to strengthen rather than to fray the sometimes fragile bonds which join us. It may be true that Nu Alpha Phi endures because of its own inherent virtues, but it is Zib who has taken the pains to remind us of such and to see to their continuing nurture. Formal recognition of what we all owe him is therefore thrice welcome, if unconscionably late. The debt itself, however, is quite unpayable.

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MONKEYSHINES—A pleasant Summer day was all the inducement needed to coax a passel of Nu Alph Nature- lovers to Bob King's ‘30 #85 cabin atop scenic Mount Wilson. Behaving in fittingly solemn fashion are (l to r): Hully Burroughs ‘33 #113, making with the antlers on unsuspecting Horace Peterson ‘31 #98, Wint Smith ‘31 #106, admiring the natty hosiery on Bob Tscharner ‘32 #108 (seated on stairs), Zib himself in full Mittel-European Lip Display, stripey-legged Ralph King ‘34 #130, and Ed Walker ‘30 #92, blissfully unaware of the tomfoolery afoot behind him.

Lee Harlan `55 #147

Dear Paul,

Since I work in the Alumni Office, it will be no surprise to any of you reading this note that I see Zibby quite often. He is the living link between Nu Alpha Phi alumni and Pomona College, and he takes that with complete seriousness. Of course, he hides that seriousness with a series of jokes and pithy comments about everybody and everything which certainly make him the life of any party. When he is not in the office, Zibby spends his time calling me and I'm sure many others. Those conversations too, are always a joy.

Of course, I know that he had a big hand in making me an honorary member of Nu Alpha Phi, a circumstance that I take a great deal of pride in. My Nu Alpha Phi membership complete with Maggot number 147 hangs proudly on my wall of memories. An, of course, one of the signatories on that important document is Zibby's. How great to have a friend and fellow volunteers like Zibby.

Sincerely, Lee

Doug Buckmaster `54 #338

It is a great pleasure to pay tribute to Zib and his nearly seventy years of service to Pomona College, and, since 1932 (the year of my birth) his meritorious loyalty to Nu Alpha Phi alumni and Actives.

Our working relationship began with a phone call from Zibby, because I had been an occasional contributor to the Oak Leaf when Chan Hale `23 #9 was Editor. The responsibility moved to Zib and, after several frustrating experiences with his ancient typewriter, his profane phone call came my way.

Also, Zib's habit of collecting articles, clippings, and publications which he thought would be of interest to others left little room in his home to lay out the Oak Leaf copy and pages. My dining room table became the new layout center whenever an issue was being readied.

Zib wasn't exactly a speed demon as a typist so I was able to help him out there. (My typewriter was an L.C. Smith long carriage, also ancient, but my speed was greater.) These exchanges led to many and more frequent contacts primarily because we both lived on Milan Avenue in South Pasadena. Phil Swan `51 lived between us. Still does, actually, but he is a highly-skilled investment manager, not a typist!

Anyway, Zib often would walk down to my house--gradual downhill all the way--and get a glass of wine or two with conversation from Lee at the kitchen table to fortify him for the trip home. Discussions at these times were far-ranging. You can imagine: world peace, the meaning of life, origin of the universe, etc. Lee was a major enabler in the Oak Leaf process for many years--as was Nancy Zabriskie.

We regularly would exchange 9" x 12" envelopes of letters, articles, copy, etc. Zib usually would bring his by. I would drop mine off on my early-morning run, along with some purloined roses from a local park (usually) and elsewhere for Nancy who would write me the occasional haiku thank you in response.

We would lay out the issues, get everything ready for the camera, and Zib would get them off to the printer. Once the Oak Leaf was printed, Zib would go out to Claremont and schmooze the lady in the mail room to get them out. We also wrote special notes and slipped them in envelopes, cajoling alumni to write and contribute.

The Oak Leaf was just one of the opportunities to interface with Zib. I can't remember how many years we collaborated on the Oak Leaf--or even how he inveigled me to become active in that venture. He was always cooking up meetings with other alumni for social reasons, the cabin, or other special projects. Also, he participated in the Ken Smith `34 #138 organized Camperoos. What a poker player!

I can just imagine how it is for Chris and Paul today, with Zib breathing over their computers and shoulders. Nonetheless, my longtime association with Zib was one of the most enjoyable relationship I ever had and I treasure Zib and those years we spent together. I wouldn't trade a minute of it for anything.

Fraternally, Doug

SAGEHENS! SAGEHENS! RAH!—A more characteristic view of Zibby in his capacity as Assistant Yell Leader for the Fighting 'Hens (and was there ever a more perfectly suited yell leader?) circa 1930.

Bruce Prestwich `55 #426

Since 1953, I cannot remember not knowing Zibby. Chet Jaeger `61 #139, our faculty advisor, always brought at least one alumnus to the monday night meetings. The guys from the 20's and 30's spent time making sure we knew what this brotherhood was all about. Love for the college, pride in ourselves and loyalty to each other were the things that have stayed with me

Singing was a big deal with Zibby, the Shelton boys and the rest. After the meeting adjourned, they would join the actives in that walk down to Harwood or Mudd and we'd serenade the lucky lady who had accepted a pin or ring from one of the brothers.

Zibby's affection for Pomona has been impressive and also something we have shared as brothers. I want to say thank you Zibby, for being a friend and a strong voice for all that Nu Alpha Phi means.

Your Friend, Bruce

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Virginia DeFriest #S

Dear Chris/Paul,

Do I count? [Yes, absolutely, and of course! --Eds.] Admittedly I'm not a Nappie though many's the pleasant hour I spent up at the cabin in the mid forties. My contact with Zibby, however, came later. Having married Maggot #292, aka Jim DeFriest `46, I trailed around the world with him and noted that he never contributed to the Oak Leaf though we read it with interest. Eventually I got round to writing a newsy letter to the Oak Leaf myself. By return post came a warm, chatty letter from Zibby, the first page of which dealt with how lovely he thought Victoria, British Columbia was. The difference between the state of Victoria in Australia where we lived and the Canadian variety dawned on Zibby as he continued that letter but instead of tearing up the first page he chatted on, laughing at his mistake. I think he said it was alright if we went ahead and lived in Victoria, Australia.

Our correspondence flourished and I now regret I didn't keep his letters. "Your Nappie boyfriend" Jim referred to him. I've had a few Nappie boyfriends but next to Jim I think Zibby is my favorite... and I've never even met him!

Bill Tweedie `38 #175

SOUND THE INTERNATIONALE— Zib Zabriskie and Mrs. Tweedie pause— rather sullenly from the looks of it, and who could blame them—before an enormous Soviet postage stamp depicting an earnest little Bolshevik poised to hack a sapling off at the roots in joyous commemoration of 70 years of Revolution. Despite moments like these, the 1987 Black Sea Camperoo (in search of the Zabriskie roots) was by all accounts a smashing success.

Dear Paul,

Sorry I'm a little late in my recollection of Mr. Zabriskie--the Oak Leaf was late getting here and I've been involved in a number of projects that delayed an answer. Hope it's not too late.

I have some wonderful memories of Zibby. I didn't really know him when I was in college and then my contacts with him were very limited for years. I did know Nancy Ryan, Zibby's wife, quite well and through her I'd meet Zibby several times after they were married. After that I was away from Southern California for many years--Texas-Sweden-England-Oregon. However, Mrs. T and I were part of the Nu Alpha Phi group in the 1987 invasion of the Iron Curtain countries--our trip from Istanbul to the Black Sea and then up the Danube with stops in a number of countries en-route to Vienna. The Zabriskies were on board and Zibby was our secretary/representative with the Russian crew. On this trip I really got to know Zibby.

Regardless of Zibby's heritage, it turned out he is really a Scot at heart. He's the only one I know who learned and can recite in its entirety Tam O'Shanter by memory--no small task. Bobbie Burns is his patron saint. Having Scottish roots myself (a Tweedie from the river Tweed), we found much in common. For years after our trip I would get a telephone call on Bobbie's birthday (January 25th) and we would sing Auld Lang Syne over the telephone.

During our Danube trip Zibby met and was captivated by my better half. Zibby always had an eye for a good looking woman, particularly one who had a distinctive personality. Mrs. T fit this category and by the end of our four week trip we had established a good relationship. The enclosed picture shows Commissar Zabriskie in Bulgaria helping celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Russian Revolution. Zibby looks like he is one of the faithful.

Shortly after our return Mrs. T was stricken with colon cancer and during the next 2 1/2 years she went through hell--four major operations, seven stays in the hospital and finally died in April 1990 after a period as a hospice patient. During this time, Zibby either called or sent a letter or card on the average of once a month to Mrs. T trying to cheer her up--cartoons/pictures/news articles/poems (by Zibby), etc. It was a ray of sunshine in what was often a gloomy, discouraging time--and then there were long distance toasts to Bobbie Burns. I'll always remember Zibby's consideration and cheery notes--the mark of a converted Scot!

I am so glad the Oak Leaf is recognizing one who has contributed so much to the fraternity over the years and has been a true friend to so many.

ARE YOU READY?—It did not take long for the preternaturally enthusiastic and charismatic Zabriskie to advance from Assistant Yell Leader to squad's top position. Here, older and wiser, he radiates understandable pride in the 1932 Metate.

Jack M. Oakey `37 #151

I have to put in my two cents worth in the tribute to Zibby. My first knowledge of Zib was when I was a freshman and Zib played fullback on the football team. His charge was low to the ground. This was the fall of `32. I became a Nu Alph in the fall of `33. My first real acquaintance with Zib was in the fall of `34 when I had transferred to Cal Berkeley. Zib, Harry Hargreaves `34 #129 and Agee Shelton `32 #103 were in grad school and invited me to dinner at their apartment. I had to drop out of Cal due to pneumonia and returned to Pomona in the fall of `35.

After we graduated and married we held some alumni meetings at our homes and attended the poker parties at Ken Smith's `33 #138. Zib usually watched and kept us honest.

In the last few years, we have kept in touch through the fraternity, but more specifically through our families. In 1989 Nancy and Zib's son Jan and my daughter were married. We now share grandchildren as well as our Nu Alpha ties. My daughter and children have benefited as well as the fraternity and I from his enthusiasm and dedication. I really don't have the words to describe our relationship as fraternity brothers and father-in-laws.

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Raymond Neutra `61 #547

Zibby's warmth and enthusiasm and love of the fraternity has been a part of my landscape since I was an active member of the fraternity in the late 50s and early 60s his willingness to reach out and be a brother have contributed immensely to a creation of community, and community is a precious thing in our fragmented world. Thanks Zibby!

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David Peattie `84 #908

I'm still working at Sierra Club Books and UC Press, and trying to get things going so I can just work at home.

I got the Oak Leaf. Actually dropped it on my toe and had to go to the emergency room. Wow.

My memory of Zibby comes from carrying the oven/stove up to the cabin in the summer of 83(?). He had this incredible optimism and enthusiasm that made it so that not only did the job get done, done quickly, it made it fun. We never even thought to ask, why? I don't think anyone used the damn thing that just about killed us in the time that I hung out at the cabin. Hey, it was a free 10 ton stove and you just don't question that kind of thing.

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THE PRIDE OF THE SAGEHENS—Not content merely to participate in mighty Sagehen athletic contests from the sidelines, Zib proved his mettle repeatedly on the field of play wearing the blue and white, occasionally (if we are to believe the reports) without realizing that he had done so (see accompanying account by the late Agee Shelton).

Tom Strouse `79 #810

Although he was already legendary among the Nu Alpha collective consciousness, I actually met Zib for the first time soon after the brethren- and sistrenhood elected me President of the fraternity in 1978. (Actually, what I remember of the election was more of a mafioso-like anointing involving John Popp, Bob Barker, Rick Counihan, and some barnyard animals, but that is another story.)

Zib appeared from South Pasadena one Saturday morning in an aging VW bus, which along with him appeared ready for an extended trip into the desert. I think he ambled up to me (this was before the term was appropriated for 10 K runs) and said a very genuine and self-effacing hello. Then he fed me (Walter's?). Then we talked about the stir among the alums regarding the admission of women into the fraternity.

Thinking on it now, I imagine that soothing the gender crisis of our fraternity's life required nothing special from Zibby's repertoire. After all, he had been an educator and a public school administrator during the sixties, and had probably spent lots of hours at evening meetings riding the friction lines between generations. He had the capacity to acknowledge the critical erosion of a part of their tradition that some alums felt about the admission of women, while I know he also had the ability to witness and appreciate, in a completely noncorrosive way, the vital, teeming social organization that the gender-integrated Nu Alpha Phi had become in the mid 70s. He wasn't afraid to speak honestly about the attrition of some alums who were just too alienated by the co-ed move, nor was he uncomfortable conveying to his classmates and his seniors what he saw when he came to campus. This was truly extraordinary.

I think I appreciate even more in retrospect this artfulness of Zib's. Beneath it all, I think he really loved the college and the fraternity, and conveyed without speaking it a fundamental confidence that in knowing one another we would find shared meanings, from which the fraternity would flourish. He was right! Thanks, Zib.

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