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"CLASSMATE NEWS"
ARCHIVE JULY 2000- DECEMBER 2000
The Continuing Adventures of the 'Original' Mighty Mustangs
JOHN JAY HIGH SCHOOL
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, U.S.A.

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OUR CONDOLENCES...
BILLY JOE GENTRY ('69) - passed away in Houston, Texas, last year, at the age of 49.

RICK HERNANDEZ ('73) died today, Monday, December 11, 2000, from complications following a brain aneurysm. His organs will be used for transplants, so that others may live. He will be cremated. A Memorial Service for Rick will be held, this Friday, December 15, 2000 at 7:00 p.m. at the Castle Ridge Funeral Home, 8008 Military Drive West. Visitation with family will begin at 5:30 p.m. You can call the funeral home at (210) 645-6000 for more information. [The funeral home is located on Military Drive West close to Loop 410 and Highway 151.] Our prayers and support go out to Rick's family and we pray for the redemption of his soul.

TIM CHEVALIER ('70) died on Saturday, October 14th in the Audie Murphy Veterans Hospital here in San Antonio, after a lengthy illness. He served in the Vietnam War and upon returning to the states he earned a degree at the University of Texas at Austin. He became a musician and very well known at clubs along the Texas coast, expecilly at the Crazy Cajun Restaurant in Port Aransas. He had made his home in Port Aransas for many years. He is survived by his parents, his wife- Teri, his brother- Edward, and nieces and nephews. His funeral services were private and the notice of his death was publiched today in the San Antonio Express News. Tim was involved in many school activities back at John Jay and I had the pleasure of working with him in a play or two at school. He will be dearly missed. Our prayers go out to Tim's family, and we pray for Tim's soul. May he rest in peace. My thanks to Debbie (Pittman) Kainer ('73) for bringing this to my attention to share with everyone.

The mother of VALERIE HARDISON ('71) and LYNN HARDISON ('72) passed away at 9:50 am, Wednesday, October 18th. The viewing is from 3 to 9 on Sunday (10/21/00) and the funeral is at 2:30 Monday (10/22/00) afternoon. Please check theSan Antonio newspaper for more details.

MARCIA QUINN RALPH ('73) passed away on September 5, 2000 in Buda, Texas, and was laid to rest in San Angelo, on September 8th. She had a short bout with cancer. She is survived by her husband EVAN RALPH ('72) and two children and one grandchild. Her brother, STEPHEN QUINN ('72) sent this information to me, today. (10/9/00)

JOES ESTES ('71) died this morning, Thursday, October 5, 2000, in San Antonio from cancer. Joe was always a free spirit and a very creative one at that. A first-class musician and a first-class freind to all. He will be greatly missed. Anyone wishing to offer comments can e-mail them to me and I will post them here.
Joe Estes "Class of 1971." (Please forgive the quality of this photo.)

Dee Glisson, the mother of LARRY GLISSON ('69), CHARLOTTE GLISSON ('70) and MELANIE GLISSON (?) passed away, yesterday, September 19th, from cancer. Funeral services are scheduled for tomorrow 9/22/00 at 11:00AM, from Mission Park North at 3401 Cherry Ridge. Larry's e-mail is: glivip@aol.com and Charlotte's e-mail address is: ronsh@texas.net Our prayers, sympathy, and love go out to Larry, Charlotte, and Melanie and their familes.

CHARLES "CHUCK" EVERINGHAM ('70) Colorado Springs, Colorado has died. Our friend and fellow classmate, DON PIPPIN ('70) Lakewood, Colorado [E] just sent me an e-mail and said that Chuck died last week, primarily from liver failure and other internal problems. The funeral will be this week in Denver, Colorado on Wednesday, August 30, 2000. Chuck was formerly married to CINDY URBACH ('72). I think they have two sons and that Cindy lives in Pueblo, Colorado. There are no other details available at this time. Chuck, his family and friends, are in our prayers. (8/27/00)

Prayers and best wishes to CONNIE REED ('72) on the passing of her brother, David. LEDA PERKINS ('72) sent me this e-mail... "Hello Dennis, I just wanted to give you a quick update on Connie Reed's, brother Dave. He passed away on Friday, August 18. He was laid to rest on Monday, August 21, 2000. I want to say thanks to everyone who put them in their prayers and thoughts. And especially you Dennis for giving us the avenue to keep connected." ---May God comfort his family and friends in this time of sorrow. (8/26/00)

Our prayers to classmate JERRY GILES ('70) and his family on the passing of his mother this past Sunday, August 13th. She was 73. Visitation will be tomorrow night, Wednesday, August 16th, from 5:00-9:00pm at Mission Park Funeral Chapel North, 3401 Cherry Ridge Drive. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 17th, at 10:00 am from Dellview Baptist Church, 454 Beryl Drive and internment at Ft. Sam Houston Cemetary. Jerry's e-mail is: jerry.giles@sbt.siemens.com Presently, I do not have a local address for his dad or a phone number, as yet.

MARSHA PASCHALL ('73) PASSED AWAY AFTER THE REUNION...
One week after attending our Friday night reunion party at Mr. Gatti's, Marsha Paschall ('73) passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer and she was on dialysis. She died on July 28, 2000. She attended the party in her wheelchair, accompanied by her sister, DEBBIE PASCHALL ('70), who said that Marsha's heart just gave out. I spoke with CARY and RON MAESTAS who had spoken with her at the reunion. They said she had told them that she was thrilled to have been able to come to the reunion and that she loved the newsletters that I sent out. Her sister, Debbie, whom I just spoke with, said that Marsha had a wonderful time seeing everyone. I saw Marsha sitting at a table at Mr. Gatti's and thought she was someone's wife. I walked by the table and didn't introduce myself, as I rushed to the other party room. That is my loss. In a hurry, I never said hello, and now, I have no chance to say, goodbye. I didn't know her, I only knew of her through her sister. But she was one of us, a MUSTANG, and now she's an angel. I hope Almighty God blesses Marsha, for Marsha blessed each of us by coming to the reunion. Our prayers go out to Marsha's mom, her sister and brothers, children, extended family and friends, that they may be comforted. (8/9/00) ---You can reach her sister, DEBBIE PASCHALL at the following address: Debbie Paschall Fleming, 5485 Justin, Chubbuck, ID 83202.

Our deepest sympathies and prayers are sent out to SHIRLEY ENGLISH ('70) and her family. Her father passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2000, here in San Antonio.

Our fervent prayers and warm wishes go out to the family of GLENN BURCHARD ('69), whose mother passed away on June 30, 2000, here in San Antonio.

Our prayers and best wishes go out to MRS. MARJORIE VALENTINE, former John Jay math teacher, whose husband passed away recently, here in San Antonio.

MIGHTY MUSTANG FOOTBALL 2000

Game One -WIN- John Jay H.S.: 17 - Robert E. Lee H.S.: 8
Game Two- LOSS- John Jay H.S.: 7 - East Central H.S.: 14
Game Three- LOSS- John Jay H.S.: 27 - Rockport H.S.: 34
*Game Four- WIN- John Jay H.S.: 28 - Taft H.S.: 0
*Game Five- WIN- John Jay H.S.: 14 - Clark H.S.: 3
*Game Six- WIN- John Jay H.S.: 35 - Eagle Pass H.S.: 27
*Game Seven- WIN- John Jay H.S.: 23 - O'Connor H.S.: 14
*Game Eight- WIN- John Jay H.S.: 36 - Del Rio H.S.: 24
*Game Nine- LOSS- John Jay H.S.: 10 - Marshall H.S.:27
*Game Ten- LOSS- John Jay H.S.: 7 - Holmes H.S.: 42

(*) District games / Note: Marshall H.S. wins district championship with undefeated record.

DECEMBER 2000
DENNIS DUPRIEST--- just a quick thank you to everyone that sent me a Christmas card by e-mail or post office, this year! I have been inundated with them and you have all made my heart full of joy to hear from each of you. May our Lord bless each of you and your families. You all are always in my thoughts and prayers. I measure the treasures of my life by the quality of friends that I have. I feel like a very, very rich man for having you in my life. Have a wonderful holiday, a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Remember, love is all around.

MARSHA DAVID ('71) Englewood, Florida [E] sent me a Christmas card that arrived, today. I love the Christmas cards that come in the days between Christmas and New Years, as they help to extenda the holiday feeling. Well, take a look at this lovely family photo that she sent along with her Christmas greetings! (12/28/00)

BRENDA POULTER ('70) Salt Lake City, Utah [E] has found us and joined us after 30 years! You may recall that someone was looking for Brenda (her married name is "Gentry") and her family a month of two ago and I posted that information here on my web site. Well, thanks to some of YOU, Mustangs, Brenda has been found, and she found us. Here is her e-mail to me... "Dear Dennis, I just learned of your web page this weekend from my sister. I now live in Salt Lake City, Utah. I moved here from Houston, TX about eight years ago for a great job. I'm sorry that I missed out on the 30th reunion for the "Class of '70," although, I should have been in the class of '69. (Some of us got a little stupid back then). My brother, ROBERT POULTER ('70) lives in Florida, but we do not have a current address for him, so, I can not be much help there. I get back to Texas a couple of times a year. My mother still lives in San Antonio and my daughter and grandaughter live in Houston. My E-Mail address is brendag@smesteel.com for anyone who is looking for me. Just for your information: BILLY JOE GENTRY ('69) - passed away in Houston, TX last year at the age of 49. You have done a wonderful job on your web page for John Jay and I'm sorry I did not think to look for it sooner. Keep up the Great Job! My address is 1580 E. 11400 S., Sandy, UT. 84092" ---Brenda it's great to have you back among us! MICKEY MAHLER ('70) lives in Sandy, Utah, too! Be sure to look him up. And speaking of Mickey, does anyone have his new e-mail address? Am I assuming correctly, that you were married to Billy Joe? If so, please know that we all extend our sympathies, prayers and best wishes to you and his family. Please, be sure to stay in touch! (12/26/00)

LINDA SCHNEIDER ('71) Wuerzburg, Germany [E] sent me an exciting e-mail from her home in Germany, in response to one that I sent her. What a dear friend she is. She has a beautiful life there and had a recent health scare. Here's her e-mail... "Hey there, Dennis - Thanks for the note! In it, you mentioned how you and KAY COMPTON ('71) have come to become such good friend over the past few years. It is interesting how friendships can be renewed/broadened after years... how we change... or, do we? I'll have to think about that... We are living in Wuerzburg, Germany (Bavaria) looking on a map, it is midway between Nurnberg (put an "umlaut" over the "u") and Frankfurt. I love living in Europe. We were skiing over Thanksgiving in Zermatt, Switzerland (the base of the Matterhorn), in Sweden last weekend picking up a new car (a "sensible shoes" Volvo). Going skiing in Dachstein, Austria ("The Arnold's" stomping grounds) in January, as well as a "wine tasting" at the Residenz (home of the 'state' wine cellars)... What can I say, other than we're not in Texas anymore Toto! The world is a smaller place from here... and the views are much, much different. (Especially coming from the 100+ mile views & no discernable neighbours in South Central Colorado to this two floor of a four floor/24 family stairwell walk up I am sitting in the kitchen in! BUT, we do have vineyards~1 mile away, and an incredible view out the bedroom window of the "castle" (actually the Marionburg Fortress) on the 'hill' on the other side of the River Main - at night, it it's lights make it look like gold - And adding to that this last year is the acute sense of life, living and not wasting a moment of it. I was diagnosed (to the best of their ability without cutting into my head) with an astrocytoma by the neurosurgeons (both here and at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington D.C.). One of those "I when to the doctor for an routine eye exam... and guess what?" ...a bit more detail than that, but you get the picture. It was tough there for a bit, but with much assistance it has left me with a profound sense of gratitude for? Everything... I could get really deep here, but will leave that for another time or place. Anyway...Keep in touch Dennis, it is really good to hear from you. A big hug this Merry Christmas morning to you from your renewing friendship with the Jewish girl living in the middle of Germany! My e-mail address is: EuroLlama@t-online.de P.S. Do you know the whereabouts, or does anyone, of CHARLENE CAMPBELL ('71) (when I last heard from her, 14 years ago, she called from California) or DANNY RANGEL ('72) though last I believe he was in Dallas somewhere?" ---WOW! It's great to hear from you, Linda! It's made my Christmas Day extra special! Sounds to me like you're living in paradise and you deserve to! Keep me posted on your health and hang in there! I don't have any information on Charlene or Danny, but if anyone reading this does, please, e-mail Linda, ASAP. (12/25/00)

FRANK "RIP" DOUVRY ('70) Frisco, TX [E] called me Friday evening to let me know he was in town and wanted to stop by and visit. I was on the way over to my parent's house and he said he would visit, today. Well, he had to head back to Frisco (near Dallas) where they were expecting an ice and snow storm, so, he wasn't able to come by my house, today. Or so I thought. When I went out to the mailbox, this afternoon, to check my mail, it seems that Rip had driven by sometime this morning and dropped off a Christmas present in my mailbox! A beautiful Hallmark Beatles "YELLOW SUBMARINE" Christmas ornament!! I couldn't find one anywhere for my collection and the old Rip-ster gives me one!!! Thanks, Ripper!! We'll be sure to get togther the very next time you're in town! (12/23/00)

PAM CASTLE ('70) San Antonio, Texas [E] must have read further down this page, where I said I had probably received the last donation to "the cause" for the year 2000. (In fact, I wrote that three times, after having received some donations from STEVE MAYS ('70), DON GOODMAN ('70), and KENNETH & VICKI (GREEN) ELKINS ('70.'70). It seems that I no sooner write that and someone else sends in a donation! So, thanks for the beautiful Christmas card and donation, Pam. I can always count on you!! Merry Christmas! (12/23/00).

KATHY VICE ('72) San Antonio, Texas [E] was told about my web site by ALICE BACHMAN ('71) and Kathy sent me this e-mail... "Dear Dennis, Just wanted to say HI, and let you know I'm still around and in San Antonio. I have really enjoyed your site. I especially enjoyed the panoramic picture of the reunion group. I'm going to try and participate sometime in one of the chats, and I hope to attend the next reunion. I understand from Alice Bachman that they are a lot of fun. Take care, and Merrry X-mas! --- Kathy, it's great to have you back amongst us and I hope you'll join us in a chat real soon! Be sure to stay in touch! (12/21/00)

KAY COMPTON ('71) Mesquite, Texas [E] has sent me a wonderful gift for Christmas! I was sitting, watching TV, today, and the Fed-Ex trucks pulls up in front of the house. The driver hands me a thin package about 3 feet long and it's heavy! I open it up, and it's a full-sized street sign that says, MUSTANG DRIVE. Wow! She enclosed a note with it that said, "I saw this sign and could not resist!" Well, Kay, I'm glad you didn't resist! It is fantastic! I love it! Now, where did you get this sign??? If memory serves me correct, didn't you just get back from a trip to Las Vegas? And isn't there a famous Mustang Drive in Las Vegas that leads to the Mustang Ranch, where women.... well, nevermind! LOL Actually, Kay got the sign at the West End marketplace in Dallas. Thank you for the sign, Kay, and I am going to mount it on a signpost in my front yard! That ought to drive people crazy!! I love you, Kay, you silly looneytoon! Merry Christmas!! (12/20/00)

KENNETH & VICKI (GREEN) ELKINS ('70/'70) Stamford, Texas [E] just love to prove me wrong! I no sooner state that I probably have received the last donation for the web site for 2000, when, today, in the mail, I receive a Christmas card from them along with their annual donation to "the cause." Thank you so much Ken and Vicki for your 14 years of support!! You two are wonderful!! And speaking of wonderful, Vicki included a photo of their beautiful grandchild, Brooke Elkins. You know you're getting old when your friends send you photos of their grandchildren!! So, as a treat, here's a Christmas photo of Brooke and best wishes to everyone from Ken and Vicki. Merry Christmas to you! (12/20/00)

ALAN FREDERICK ('70) Houston, Texas [E] has joined the internet and the first site he comes to is this one! I received an e-mail from Alan, today... "Dear Dennis, I just got this computer [compliments of SUSAN BLACK ('72)] and, of course, she takes me straight to your website and it blew me away. I knew that I would show up as missing, so we took care of that straight away. Couple of questions... when setting up the yearbook section how did my picture end up in the correct place? I was always so proud of being at the END of the index! Concerning the birthday party and mini reunion, I need some information, like do you need a band? I have one that plays all the tunes from our particular time period,and with the passing of JOE ESTES ('71) recently, I feel obligated to offer up. Besides, it would thrill me to no end to play for the homeboys. Just a thought for you to chew on. You're a good man, Dennis, for setting this site up and giving us a shot at the past. I hope to see you soon! I'll sign off now. it was twenty years ago today......bye.!" ---Alan, it's great to hear from you are 30 years! As for your questions, well, your photo was moved up electronically to save you from solitary! I figured you had been in isolation long enough! As for your band, well, we haven't made any plans, but we had been asked to use the VERY FIRST band that played at the VERY FIRST dance at John Jay. That was SLIM ROBERTS and his band at the western dance in September 1967. His daughter, DEBBIE ROBERTS ('72) still sings with the band. So, I'll keep you posted! As, for your Beatles reference of "20 years ago today"... you never were any good in math! It's 30 years ago! LOL It's good to have you back among us. Please stay in touch! All the best to you, my friend! (12/17/00)

DON GOODMAN ('70) Madison, Tennessee [E] MUGGED ME, today. Of course, when I say "mugged me" I mean that he sent me a new coffee mug for my collection. Well, it's not really a coffee mug, because, if I filled it with coffee it would keep me awake for 17 years! This thing is MASSIVE. It is an NFL Tennesse Titans mug that Eric the Red would be proud to hoist! It must weigh 7 pounds! It is beautiful! My coffee mug collection has really gotten out of hand! Don also sent in a contribution to "the cause" or to be used to buy myself a pizza! Thanks, Donnie! I appreciate the contribution and I will always treasure the magnificent mug! Merry Christmas to you, my friend! (12/16/00)

STEVE MAYS ('70) Great Falls, Virginia [E] and his wife, Barb mailed me their annual photo Christmas card with a picture of his triplets. He also sent in what is probably the final DONATION for this web site of this year. Thanks for the card and the check Steve-a-reno! (12/13/00)

ROSE CABRERA ('73) California [E] has joined us here at the web site on on the internet. She sent me an e-mail today... "Hello, Dennis! I am writing this to ask if you would post my e-mail address under the "Class of 1973" on your web site. I was recently told about your web site and was impressed to see all the info on classmates. You have done a great service to all us mustangs, who are looking to reconnect with old friends. I don't think I ever met you in school, but in case there is someone out there who does remember me, I would love to hear from them and catch up on the past. As for me, I have been happily married for 15 years, and have two sons ages, 6 and 9. We live in northern California and I am a stay-at-home mom. I just got a computer and, well, here I am! Well, thanks, again, and have yourself a HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON. I appreciate you! --- Rose, it's great to have you among us. You are in the same class as my brother, Tom. I looked at your photo in my Senior yearbook and you do look familiar. (I never forget a pretty face! LOL). Well, You're added to the e-mail list, and I hope you get lots of e-mail from friends. (12/13/00).

DONNA COBURN ('71) Delafield, Wisconsin [E] sent me an e-mail and it is great to hear from her... "Dear Dennis, I thought I would let you know I moved in June. I couldn't decide whether to add on or move and picked the latter. It was cheaper to move and I didn't have to put up with the inconvenience and mess for several months. We only moved 8 miles, but it's the same amount of work even if you move cross country. We had a garden shed and fence installed on the property, so I spent my summer and fall painting, staining and landscaping. I'm pretty burned out on that. Now that the snow is flying, I'll do some stuff inside that needs to be done. I've been watching all the court cases involving the election. I have really enjoyed it and will probably go into withdrawal when it's over. If nothing else, it makes for great comedy. When MARK LOISELLE ('70) last wrote you to say he moved, I noticed it was near me. I emailed him and we finally got together for breakfast a few weeks ago. We were in sixth grade together and our brothers were good friends when they were in high school. We had such a good time and our breakfast ended up lasting 5 hours. I had to leave because we had plans that evening for dinner or we probably would have talked much longer. Mark is great and seems to really like his job with Jockey. I'm having a dinner party next weekend and invited him and his wife to come. I would love for you to come too. Do you have an address for MADELINE KIDDER ('70)? She was my best friend and Mark's first big crush in elementary. We thought it would be fun to call her if we can track her down. I am so sorry I missed the reunion. I had every intention of being there, however my mom was sick and I decided to wait until they diagnosed her to come down in case I needed to stay there for an extended period of time. They have done every test imaginable, but have never come up with anything conclusive. She's actually much better now, so they feel maybe she had some weird virus or something. I will be down there in May or June for my son's wedding and then to Idaho for a few weeks. I will try to work the 2001 reunion in July into my plans. I have to get out and shovel some snow. We got a few inches last night, but at least it's warmer today than the 25 below weather we had a few nights ago. I hope it's not any indication of the type of winter we're going to have. All I've heard since I moved here is how mild the winter's have been. I may come down to Texas for a few months if we have what they consider a cold one. Take care my friend. I hope you are doing well. If not sooner, I will see you in June. Love, Donna (My new address is: S16 W32646 Luterbach Court, Delafield, Wisconsin 53018) (12/18/00) ---Donna it is wonderful to hear from you and to know that all is well. I hope your mom is doing better. Tell Mark Loiselle to give me a call. As for Madeline Kidder, I think she lives in Helotes. I have mailed newsletters to her and have never ever received a response. Her brother, JIMMY KIDDER ('71) calls me out of the blue every now and then (the last time about five years ago) but I don't have any information on either of them. If anyone does, I hope they will e-mail the information to you. Please be sure to come see when when you are in town. I love you, too!

NOVEMBER 2000
JIM DAVIS ('70) Hawthorne, Florida came into San Antonio during Thanksgiving week and took me to dinner. We had a great time talking about the good old days in drama and his days in the Air Force. This guy has some hilarious stories! In the middle of our meal, BUBBA ABEL ('70) and ED HOLLEY ('72) also showed up and had some laughs. It was a great time. Thanks for the Florida gators coffe mug and for the meal Jimbo! The next one's on me! (11/24/00)

ALAN FREDERICK ('70) Houston, Texas has been found after 30 years, thanks to SUSAN BLACK ('72). She sent me this e-mail... "Dear Dennis- Alan lives in Houston. He is not on the internet, so no e-mail address. He will visitng with me for Thanksgiving. He is doing great. Alan, Connie Burkinshaw and I, were a trio from the old days. Connie e-mailed me and she and her husband, Denny, have accepted my longstanding invitation for them to be my guests for Thanksgiving. I can't wait! I'll try to send some photos. Anyone wanting to reach Alan can do so at: Alan W. Frederick 2410 Munger, Houston, TX 77023 Phone: 713-926-9242 (11/5/00) ---Susan, thanks for tracking down Alan and getting the info to me. I will take him off the "MISSING MUSTANGS" list. (By the way, a note to everyone, to please visit the "Missing Mustangs" section of my web site and see if you know where any of our missing classmates are.)

TOM SWARTZ ('71) Fort. Lauderdale, Florida [E] and I were good friends back at Jay and hung out together. He left town in 1970 and for 30 years, I have wondered what happened to him. Today, out of the blue, I get an e-mail from Tom who had stumbled across my web site. He writes... "Hello, old friend. I was surfing the web last night and for some unknown reason I ran a search for John Jay H.S. To my surprise I found your fabulous web page. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw your name. I spent hours looking at all the pictures and information. If you remember and I hope you do, I was in the same class as your sister, Linda. I started school at Jay in 1967 as a freshman and we were going to be the first four-year graduating class, but after the completion of my junior year, my dad retired from the service and during summer break we moved to the Miami area. In 1971 I did graduate from a South Florida school but I have always considered John Jay as my high school. In fact, I didn't even go to my graduation. Boy, how I wish my dad could have stayed at Lackland for another year. After reviewing all the pictures on your web site, it really reconfirmed my belief, and made me think how much I missed John Jay and all my friends that I had to leave. But such as life, as they say. I remember you going to drama class and you would comb into your hair that silver make-up that turned your hair salt and pepper. It really made you look older. I knew then that some day you would be a celebrity and after reading your biography, on your web page, I'm glad to see I was right! I also noticed pictures of another close friend BILL MIZELL ('70). If, I remember correctly, he lived two streets south of my house, which was at 106 Appleton Drive Early this year I returned to San Antonio on a business trip and was there for just two days. I drove around the Lackland area and visited my old house along with my old schools, Lackland Elementary, Sam Rayburn, and John Jay. I couldn't believe how the city has grown out to the west and north and two loops now instead of one. I wish I could have had more time to visit. Hopefully in the near future I can return. I think at one time I could have put a name to every student's picture in the year books of '68,'69' and '70 and now after looking through them thirty years later, I remembered about ten. What a shame. It goes to show ya, some people you never forget and Dennis your one of those people. Take care, your friend, Tom, hope to hear back from you. My e-mail address is: Tomsw@ci.ftlaud.fl.us --- (11/2/00) Tom and I had a great hour conversation, last night (Friday, 11/3/00). He's married and has two kids. He works in law enforcement and occasionally get to travel to the San Antonio area. IN fact, he will be stopping here on the way to Arizona i a month of two and we hope to link up, then! It's great to have you back among the MUSTANGS, Tom!

OCTOBER 2000
JERI (BARGER) GIDDENS ('71) [E] sent me word by e-mail... "Hi Dennis, I just found out about your web site. You probably won't remember me, but I went to Jay, starting my freshman year, the year Jay opened. My name is Jerri Barger, (Jeri Giddens, now. I changed the spelling of my first name.) I was in the Jay "Class of 1971". I married to GEORGE SMITH ('69). (We divorced in '82.) I've been away from San Antonio for about 28 years now. I was visting there the week of Oct.7-Oct.14 and got to see a couple of old friends, JANINE RODRIGUEZ ('71) (Janine gave me the info about the web site) and SUE CLEMENS ('71). I started to call you, but I knew you wouldn't remember me. I think what you are doing with the newsletter and web site is great. I just wish I had known about it years ago. I pulled up the pictures of the reunion and was so happy to see so many of my old schoolmates, even if THEY don't remember me. I was saddened by the news of all who have passed away. I knew about some of them, but I had no idea about CHUCK EVERINGHAM ('70). It was such a shock to me. He was a great guy. My heart goes out to Cindy and her boys. Please keep up the good work with the web site. I don't know of anyone else from any other schools that have done this, and I think it is wonderful. I will continue to keep up with all that is going on, now that I know about this site. Feel free to post my email address: petejeri@earthlink.net Take Care." --- Jeri, of course I remember you! It's great to hear from you and to have you back among us. If you get the chance, join us on Wednesday or Sunday nights for the CLASS CHAT that we have LIVE in our own private chat room! I may revive the twice-a-year newsletter, but I'm not sure, yet. Love to you! P.S. You didn't mention what city & state you're in. Let me know! (10/30/00)

TED CROFT ('73) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent in an e-mail... "Hey, Dennis! I've been in close contact with VICKI HOWELL ('73) from among the persons you have listed on your web site.(I took her to the prom) I married a girl from a Navy family in San Diego in 1982, married her twice! I knew what I wanted, she just had to figure it out. I suppose I would have not wanted to go to Wisconsin, after a childhood growing up in Sunny San Diego, either. Since the second marriage, we've had two daughters, one now 14 (going on 21,) or so she thinks. Man, am I in trouble, you would not believe the boys! The other daughter is 11, soon to be twelve. I am now working for a local firm here in San Antonio, Texas Hobby Distributors, I do education program materials for educators, NASA's teacher programs and space camps, model rockets, balsa, radio control, science kits, stuff like that. Best job a retired guy could have (if making lots of money is not the priority). Been meeting a lot of real folks! My sister, RHONDA CROFT ('74) has some executive position at David Weekly Homes. My Mom is now living with me. She retired from a nursing career, a couple of years ago and now has some problems with congestive heart problems. We do fine, though. My Dad passed away in 1987 of an anuerism in his head ,while he was living in Georgia. My sister Joan lives in Austin, she has just been published with three poems in a Smithsonian Sponsored Poetry Anthology (I'm so proud!) She just creates, that's all she does. You know, a ne'er do well! LOL Regardez Vouz and all that. Ted." ---Hey, old neighbor! Remember the bottle rockets fights we used to have at the corner of Remuda and Rawhide, where your house was? What dumb kids we were! Good to hear from you! (10/30/00)

STEPHEN QUINN ('72) San Antonio, Texas [E] has sent an e-mail to me, having found this web site. He writes... "Dear Dennis, I haven't seen or heard from too many classmates since my graduation in 1972. My sister, MARCIA QUINN RALPH ('73) passed away on September 5, 2000 in Buda, Texas, and was laid to rest in San Angelo, on September 8th. She had a short bout with cancer. I am going to miss her dearly. She is survived by her husband, EVAN RALPH ('72) and two children and one grandchild. At the services, YVONNE BARTEE ('73) and TANA MARTIN ('73) told me about this web site. So, I thought I would check it out. I am trying to put a lot of info here in a short time, so please don't think I am unsympathetic. This web site is fantastic, I got a lot of info from it and I will help in anyway I can. I live in San Antonio. Have for 31 years. Only left for a short time when I was in the Air Force. My address is 1215 Temple Sq., S.A. Tx. 78245. 210-675-7745. I have two children, a girl 11 and a boy 7. I am divorced and have custody of my babies. I work for Compass Bank and handle PC/Network support for 13 branches here in town (about 250 users). I saw some familiar names in the e-mail directory and I will contacting them. It feels good to get back to my roots. I didn't know, you, Dennis, but I had heard of you frequently. I didn't know ED HOLLEY ('72), either, but I am sure that was my loss. I would like any other info on our class re-union. I missed both of our reunions and I regret it. I had the chance to go but I had to go TDY the 1st time and the 2nd time I got married on a whim (mistake). Oh well gotta go, hope to hear from anyone soon." --- Dear Steve, good to hear from you and to have you back among the Mustangs! I am so sorry to hear of your sister's passing. Please know that she and her family, as well as yours, are in our prayers. (10/9/00).

DENNIS DUPRIEST ('70) San Antonio Texas [E] this past Friday night at about 10:30 p.m., my phone rang and it was a friend that I hadn't heard from in about six years. His name is Eugene Gordon Lee, but you all know him best as PORKY from the "LITTLE RASCALS". Back in 1985, I got Porky, Spanky, and Butch together for reunion and film festival here in San Antonio. Spanky, Porky and butch have all spent the night at my house. Anyway, Porky called to say hello and to see how I was doing. He will soon be 70 years old and is now totally retired. He lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota and occasionalt appears at film festivals and autograph signings across the nation. He said to be sure to tell all my John jay classmates, "HELLO" and "O'TAY" from him. By the way, it was PORKY, not BUCKWHEAT, who said that immortal word: "O'Tay!" Eddie Murphy used it in his Saturday Night Live skits and people mistakenly thought Buckwheat said in in the films, but it was actually Porky that first said it!! Porky and I talked about the fact that MONDAY, OCTOBER 2nd, would have been Spanky's 72nd birthday. Porky has his very own web page at which you can purchase personally autographed "Little Rascals" stuff! Just click here: http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Picture/3158/Porky.html You can even write him an e-mail from that site. As soon as I finish writing this and posting it on the web site, I am going to call TOMMY "BUTCH" BOND, who Porky tells me is recovering from cancer.......In the time since I wrote that last sentence, I called Butch, out in California. He and his family are moving to a beachfront condominium near San Diego, California in two weeks. He, too, is retired and makes personnal appearances. He has just finished radiation therapy for prostate cancer and is doing great. He has invited me to his home when they move in and I am going to try to visit them next summer. (10/1/00)

Tommy "Butch" Bond, the 'bully' in the "Little Rascals"... fighting Alfalfa with Spanky, as referee, ....and Butch, retired today, in sunny California. My good fortune to have them as my friends.

BILL TANNER ('70) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma [E] dropped me a line by e-mail and he writes... "Hi Dennis, and good morning toyou. Hope everything is well, down in San Antonio, as it is up here in burned up Oklahoma. Yes....Cindy Urbach!!! Remember her very well, especially when she lived down from Mark Loiselle. We (Mark, Urban Urbano, Jay Urbano, Jim Howard, my brother Tommy, Tommy Packard) used to hang at their home and gaze for hours at her Dad's Dragsters that he was building, and if my memory serves me well.....he had an awesome Shelby Mustang also. Those was really the good old days. Anyway.....I will pass the address around up here and too the people I know that went to Jay and see what happens. Other than that...today it has been a year since I moved from San Antonio and it has blown by pretty fast. Still trying to adapt to the new environment and getting used to these red-neck ways. Haven't had the chance to say how much you deserve a pat on the back for a job well done on the reunion. I know how time consuming things like that can be, but the rewards are far more greater. You have always been that type of guy. And to see the classmates again in the picture.... Dennis. are we really getting that old? Or are we just growing old so gracefully? I think the important thing is...It's what's inside the heart that counts anyway..right. Stay cool and hope to see you next year in the net reunion." --- Yes, Bill, you are really that old. The trick is NEVER TO MATURE! I may be 48 years old, but I act like a 17 year old! YEEE HAAA! (10/1/00)

SEPTEMBER 2000
CINDY URBACH ('72) Pueblo, Colorado [E] found my web site and wrote me clear out of the blue. Cindy and I were great buddies back in school days and share the same birthday, July 7th, although Cindy is two years younger. We used to call each other on our birthday for many years until time and distance came between us. It is such a joy to hear from her. As you will remember, Cindy was once married to CHUCK EVERINGHAM ('70) who died last month. Let me share Cindy's e-mail with everyone... "Yo' Dennis! I just looked at the JJ site and boy, you're having fun! Every time I think about Chuck passing away it tears up my heart and I feel a million years old. Both of our sons live next to me, and they are handling it better. Josh is 21 and Clayton is 24, and of course I am ageless. I am an art teacher in an alternative school that's part of the university and also I coordinate the Largest Mural in the World, here, in Pueblo Colorado. Anyway, I am well and dancing through my life every minute. I must go grade papers and walk my two dogs. Hope all is well for you and I forgot we have the same birthday. Please feel free to pass on my e-mail and let me hear from you. Yours, Cindy" ---It is so wonderful to hear from you Cindy. Please give the boy all my best wishes and tose from your classmates, as well. You have our love and I hope I get to see ya' some time, soon! Love ya'! Cindy's e-mail address is listed on the e-mail links page, or just click this link to reach her:ramu@uscolo.edu (9/26/00)

LAURA HENDERSON ('71) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me an e-mail to let me know that she is getting married! Her e-mail says..."Dear Dennis, Well, we have set a wedding date. John and I will be married on November 14, 2000, in a quiet ceremony. We are thrillled. By the way, I was wondering, do you know how to get a hold of DEBBIE SMITH ('72), she and I use to run around together, she lived on the next street over from me in Valley Hi, on Moon Valley, and I lived on Peach Valley. I remember they use to have an old "Nomad" Station Wagon, green and white. Her sister Jana, was a sweetie too. Anyways, what do you know?" ---Well, first of all, congratulations on your upcoming wedding! May you and John have a lifetime of happiness together. Save me a piece of the wedding cake! As for Debbie Smith, I don't know if this is the right Debbie, but, an e-mail address that I have from last year is: Sadiesack@aol.com I don't know how current that is, but I hope it's correct. (9/22/00)

MARILYN MESSICK ('72) Boerne, Texas went to John Jay before the family was transfered to Tinker AFB in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, but in that time she made wonderful friends and left great impressions on many of us. Marilyn ran into a classmate, DEBBIE SMITH ('72) [E] who told her about the reunion and me. Tonight, Marilyn called me and we had a wonderful time on the phone laughing and remembering the good old days. She recently moved to Boerne, from California! She wanted me to say "hello" to everyone! She is not on the internet but would love hearing from anyone and everyone! Her phone number is (830) 816-3261. Marilyn and I laughed for the entire hour of our conversation. We talked about the KONO radio station petition signing parties at her house. Remember those? Whichever school turned in the most signatures on petitions won a free concert by Bill Joe Royal. John Jay came in 2nd place to LaSalle Catholic School (a girls school). We talked about the times a gang of us went papering houses and the timeher dad picked her up from school in a HELICOPTER across from Jay! Well, Marilyn is coming over to my house this Sunday afternoon (9/24/00) at 2:00 PM. Anyone that would like to join us, please call me at 674-8685. (Frankly, I hope none of ya' shows up so I have Marilyn all to myself!!) We may end up over at Pizza Hut, but Marilyn would love to see everyone! (9/21/00)

KAY COMPTON ('71) Mesquite, Texas [E] knows how much I love friend mushrooms and has gone to eat them with me on a couple of occasions. Today, I recieve a gift and note in the mail from her. She sent me a glass mushroom, encased within a glass teardrop! It is gorgeous and she writes... "Dear Dennis, When shopping today, I saw this and thought of you and the "Mushroom Gang," and how much fun we have when we go to the "410 Diner." I decided that you had to have this. Love ya', Kay." ---Thank you so much, Kay. It is beautiful! Thanks for thinking of me! See you soon! Love you, too! (9/18/00)

SUSAN WITT ('71) Avondale, Arizona [E] also sent me a wonderful gift and note... "Dear Dennis, here is the little surprise that I promised to mail to you. When I saw it, I thought of you always telling everyone, all the time, and I couldn't resist getting it for you! Perhaps you can find some space to tuck it behind your coffee mugs, I just wanted to remind you, how much you are appreciated for all that you do to keep the web site going and keeping us all in touch. You truly do an amazing job. Thanks, Dennis, you're a keeper! Luv Ya' Man!" ---Sue-Sue! Thanks for the wonderful gift and for thinking of me! I Luv Ya', Girl! All the best to you. (9/18/00)

MIKE SALINAS ('75) Shreveport, Lousianna [E] and I worked together at Southern Belle Fried Chicken, on Marbach Road back in high school days. His step father was Art Hale, who owned the place. Mike stumbled upon this web site last year and has had a blast readin all the news and staying in touch with me. I received this e-mail and photo from him... "Dear Dennis, attached is a picture of me playing at a talent show, Aug 25, 2000, at Barksdale AFB in Bossier City, LA. I took 1st place in Musical Variety and Best of Show playing Johnny B. Goode for a grand prize of $200. I hope you don't mind me strumming my own guitar! You probably didn't know I played. When we worked at the chicken place I was spending my money on guitar stuff when I could get dad to pay me. Those were some good times. I remember you had me laughing with your impersonations. You were very funny in those days. I will be playing at the Red River Revel in Shreveport on Oct 3rd and 5th. It's a 10 day party like Fiesta there in San Antonio." ---Mike, it's always good to hear from you and best of luck in your talent competitions. If, you become famous, PLEASE remember me!! And by the way, I am STILL funny! I gotta share this story with everyone. One Saturday evening, when I didn't have to work, I was invited over to Mike's house for dinner with the family. Well, as the evening progressed, his step-dad/my boss (Art Hale) and I got crocked! I mean really blizted! Mike's mom had to drive me home that night. So, the whole family piled into the car, along with Art Hale and myself. Coming down the Loop 410 access road, we saw a family of SKUNKS! A momma skunk and four babies walking behind her! We told Mrs. Hale to pull over and Art and I jumped out of the car, drunk as hell, and ran across the field and we each grabbed a baby skunk and ran for the car! We piled back inside the car... now, picture this, Mrs. Hale and three daughters in the front seat and me, Mike, and Art Hale in the back seat with two baby skunks! We no sooner closed the car doors and the skunks cut loose on us!!! They sprayed stinky-stuff all over us!! We dropped the skunks on the floorboard of the car and they went wild. Spraying everything that moved or didn't move!! Eyes burning! Lips burning! They sprayed my mouth! Oh, God, I'm gonna' die!!! AUGGGHHHHH!! The skunks are spraying like there's no tomorrow! Stinky-poo!!! My skin starts to burn! The girls in the front seat are screaming like they're a chorus in some frantic opera! Everyone was screaming their asses off and Art and I were too drunk to know what was going on!! LOL!!!! Mike is scrambling his ass off trying to clim over into the front seat and Art and I got baby skunks trying to run up our pants legs and hide!! I reach for the window knob and couldn't find it! I was ready to kick the window out! Finally, we found the door handles and jumped out of the car, ran back across the field and let the baby skunks go about 10 feet from their ticked-off momma skunk and we ran like hell!! I wanna rip my clothes off. My skin was burning and God, I stunk!! Then we started laughing so friggin' hard I nearly pee-ed my pants! We piled back into the car, they dropped me off and I had to shower butt-naked in the backyard at 2:00AM with a hose, baking soda, and a plastic fiber brush. Even on my tally-wacker!! Damn what a blast that adventure with nature was!!! YEEE HAAAA!! (9/16/00)

CATHY BACON ('70) Woodbridge, Virginia [E] got a pretty good write up and her photo in the "Westside Sun" the neighborhood edition of the "San Antonio Express-News," today. It was all about her being given the honor of being named a NORTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT "PILLAR," As a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force and working at the Pentagon, she represents the attributes of CITIZENSHIP. Cathy we are all very, very proud of you and I will be sure to mail the article to you! Hey, maybe I'll become a "pillar" for Northside ISD. Hell, at my size, I'd be a whole building!! LOL (9/6/00)

CHUCK OGIER ('70) Thousand Oaks, California [E] sent me an e-mail, today. It's been a while since I've heard from him. He's an airline pilot and writes... "Dear Dennis...haven't written in a long time, as I knew you had your plate full with the reunion stuff. Nice job by the way! I am off on another month long assignment to the Middle East, spending the month of September operating out of Dubai in the UAE. Talked with PAUL SCOTT ('70) the other day Jjust prior to leaving. Come to find out he has been working out of an office in the same basic city I live in for the past 2 1/2 years. In the usual LA and Southern California tradition, we have promised to "do lunch," when I return in October. Just read you letter...and the note of JANICE SAMS ('70) being in LA. Maybe, between Paul, Janice and I, we can have a Mustang brunch out here on the West coast in the future. I will propose it to them. Catch you later. Hope you stay cool....its only 120 here in the desert...in the shade!" ---Thanks for the e-mail, Chuck. And may your skies always be clear, my friend! (9/6/00)

JONNY CONOVER ('73) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma [E] sent me an e-mail today. Although I don't know him, he's a Mustang and welcomed among us! He writes... "Hi Dennis, Just wanted to drop you a line and first say, "great job" on your web site. I was just sitting around and thought to check up on my old Alma Mater and see if they were 'hooked up' and found your site. I then proceeded to other sites. One thing I noticed is that there were no links to my Class of '73. I guess we aren't too well connected. I also noticed the messages about one of my classmates passing away in July. Thanks for the update. Wow! It has been a while. I've been back to San Antonio only 3 or 4 times since I left and the school still looks the same except for the chain link fencing. If you would like to post my e-mail address you are more than welcome. My home e-mail is jr.conover@att.net. Keep up the good work. The old memories are the best and contribute a foundation for the new ones." ---It's great to hear from you Jonny, and thanks for the compliments on this web site. You'll have to look up a 1970 Mustang at Tinker AFB, BILL TANNER ('70)! (9/6/00)

JON DAVIS ('70) Eugene, Oregon [E] e-mailed me and asked if it was too late to offer his reflections about the reunion. You all will recall that I asked everyone who attended the reunion to drop me a line or two with their impression of the reunion. I told Jon it wasn't too late and to send me his thoughts. LOL Well, I'll suspend the "line or two" rule and here's what Jon had to say about the reunion, the people who attended, and even those who didn't..."Reunion Reflections: I am impressed at how well the reunion came together, in general, and particularly the usual creative, entertaining way that Dennis lead us through the events. The Friday evening school social and further adventures with fast pizza at Mr. Gatti's was nice however I enjoyed Saturday night at Pedrotti's the most. Some of the fpeople I saw Friday evening: Randy Tillman and his wife, Judy: This, in itself, was well worth the trip out of the Great Northwest. We also had a good visit previously along the downtown river walk where I consumed a large authentic Margarita. Mike Dilliard: I put him on the spot because for a while he needed a little time to shift his brain to a higher gear in order to remember me. We used to have a great time on weekends, occasionally, either playing 30 megaton tackle football or hugging commodes at helatious parties. This guy has a very smooth voice. He should be a DJ or something. Charlie Rollinson: As I continued to mingle half excited and half lost through the crowd, Charlie came up to say hello. I was impressed he remembered me as well as he did. What a great guy with a good heart, just like 30 years ago. Mike O'Malley: I was honored by Mike"s approach also. The body changed a little but the unique flavor that is the Mike O'Malley edge is still there. Prior to Mrs. Lehman's English class, I thought Mike would be the last person to give his personal prose rendition of "The Dock of the Bay" in front of a group of people but that's just the intriguing way he can surprise you. I also thought it was extremely ballsy of Mrs. Lehman to ask him. I had 60 megaton weekend tackle football games with this guy. Wanda Darley: I saw her in the crowd and said to myself "Man, she looks great!...Hey, I had a class with her...she might remember me...naww......Man she looks great!" Steve Robinson: I was very glad to have the opportunity to see Steve [and wife] at Mr. Gatti's and be charmed by his eclectic sense of down home humor. No Steve, I'm still not gay but I"ll let you know when it happens and I can send referrals as needed in the meantime. Bob Sarrazin: "Hey, did you know we both had the same girl friend, for a very brief time, in high school?" "No, who's that?" "Marilyn Messick" "No kidding.......man, that girl........." "Yeah, I know" "Cool" "Rock on" About five people took time to briefly reflect on the resemblance I have to Clint Eastwood. I just said "Go ahead, make my day." The Pedrotti's experience initiated with a lot of anxiety regarding arriving on time. That probably only happened with me, right? Harrel Scott: Harrel was one of the first people to say hello and being the fine Texas Gentleman he is, invited me to sit at his table. It was nice to catch up with him and his wife, Robyn, after so many years. This guy could be a travel agent, on the side, the way he showed off his photo album of his recent fun with vacations south of the border. Joe Acosta: We didn't talk a lot but I appreciated the feeling of a nice mutual respect for each other when he shook my hand and said good-bye as he parted. Coach Casanova: I didn't know this guy to tell such a funny story. He gets the prize. It made me think I should have played more organized football and less kill your butt without pads... Naww... well, I'm sure they're both beautiful in they're own way. Dennis DuPriest: "The gift is you" and I hope people find that as heavy as "The Gestalt is now" and then I hope I meet a really wise person on a mountain that tells me what both of those sayings mean. Anyway we are fortunate that you share yourself so generously. Danny Padron: The CO-Host with the Most. Great Job! Thanks for appreciating that I came from Oregon to attend. Kathi Brown: I had a very special, precious few minutes with Kathi. I could have used a very special precious few hours. Man, I'm getting all warm and fuzzy inside. I gotta see an analyst about this. Shirley English: I had a preeminent fantasy to go up to Shirley to ask her if there was anything special she remembered about me or if she just remembered me at all. If that went well, I was going to ask her if she'd like to make a special guest appearance in one of my near future dreams. Then, after I saw her dancing, I wanted to ask her if she'd like to perform with the advantage of the Jonny Rocket Sidekick Dancers. After that....yeah, I was going to... but well I uh...wanted...but I ah...chickened out on all of it!.... But it was great feeling all that adrenaline! Pam Castle: What a sweet woman and I probably didn't recognize that enough 30 years ago. Starr Lenhart: This woman has got her mojo workin'! I've heard of mellow with age but she is COOLER with age. Even though we haven't been in touch all this time I feel like we picked right up where we left off from with our good buddy status. Can you say "Isn't that special?" We had a great time looking at my personal photo album together which provided a jumping off place for mutual incandescent humor. What kind of humor is that? Eets de reechist kin mon. Thanks, Starr. Donna and Monna Stephens: What charm, what style, what grace, what symbiotic sybolism, what serendipty serenity, what a shame I didn't know them more. I probably could have come up with better S words. Mary Gibson: My favorite slow dance partner of the night and..well..my only dance partner of the night but who's counting. Hey when you dance with a woman that makes you feel like your floating on a cloud that's all you need! Thanks Mary, it was great seeing you again and feeling new impressions of being impressed. Clyde Gibson: Mary's brother. James Baum: James cleared up a bit of personal history I was wondering about for over 30 years, gets my vote for best dressed, can really dance, has a great sense of humor...just an all around really swell guy. Len Saavedra: Len thanks for stopping me to say hello and catching up as much as you did. I know you know this but I got to say your wife is entirely charming and knows great hand made jewelry when she sees it! Good luck with all your busy businesses. MIA's I would have enjoyed seeing: Marilyn Messick, Harry Hetrick, the Scofield trio, Mike Taylor, Cindy Urhbach, Janna Smith, Pat Clough, Pat Thomas [unless she's still pissed off at me] Colleen Buchanan- because I really liked her a lot. Frank Moffit- because he's the first guy I knew that got strong enough and mad enough, at the same time, to put his fist through a wall of his house. Barbara Gillium- because she's one woman I would have liked to have had a serious relationship with about 10 years after I last saw her. Just in case she might like to know. Charlene Campbell- to remind her she still owes me $100+ for the long distance phone call she made from my $75/month apartment. Marlene James- because she was one of the best all around, out of the 300 zillion girlfriends, that Paul Scott had. Marie France and Marie Therese Taillifer- because they were the coolest, cutest, most attractive twins I ever knew. Bill Kearns- to ask him if he ever became a tennis pro. He had a devastating forehand! Wade Royal- because he was the rudest bully I knew. Mary Verbois- because she was Wade's girlfriend. Susan Pate- because she deserved more love than I afforded her when I was young and foolish. Kathy Vice- To tell her I wish I could have been her boy friend for about three weeks. If so I think my life would be more complete now. Patti Tebbs- To tell her I couldn't kiss her a second time because the smell of her strawberry perfume made me sick the first time. Kathy Perez- just because she was so dog gone cute in high school. Chuck Everingham- because he was one of the classiest guys I'll ever know. His untimely passing got me in touch with that in a profound way. I imagine the higher plane shines a little brighter now. ---Those are wonderful thoughts, Jon. Thanks! (9/4/00)

DONNA STEVENS ('71) San Antonio, Texas [E] e-mailed me. Now, don't confuse this Donna Stevens with Donna Stephens the twin sister of Monna. This Donna is the sister of GARY STEVENS ('69) and the cousin of our classmate, STEVE MAYS ('70) and the niece of our former physics teacher at Jay, DR. ALDINE STEVENS. Anyway! Here's what Donna had to say... "Dear Dennis, Just finished cruising the pictures from the reunion on the web site. I am so sorry I didn't make it. On the 12th of August, I had emergency surgery. Came into work on Monday and was admitted, stabilized for 24 hours, then, went into surgery where they pretty much cut me wide open to remove a football size ovarian tumor. Needless to say I wasn't able to go anywhere for a while. I keep reading of our fellow classmates and all the mortality which seems to be catching up with us collectively. I was out for 4 weeks, but I'm back at work now, and doing well. It is scarry to realize we are just human. Life is too short Dennis. I would love to see you. I won't miss next years. I don't look any older than any one else out there. Love to you." ---Wow, great to hear that you're doing OK, sweetie. Please stay in touch and give me a call!! I seem to recall a promise of a home cooked meal you offered about 10 years ago. let's do it! (9/4/00)

CINDY BACON ('70) Omaha, Nebraska [E] who works for the National Parks Service, is fighting the wildfires in Montana and sent this e-mail..."Dear Dennis, I was out at a fire camp in Montana last week. There was smoke everyday everywhere. I was lucky I was just there to work on computers and not fight the fires. I'm back at work. They have already mentioned sending me out again. I guess there's a fire up at Wind Cave they want to send me to. I told them not this week. All that smoke, or something really wore me out. I'll write more later. I attached a couple pictures of the fire camp." ---Cindy, you be careful out there! (9/4/00)

SANDRA GRIFFIN ('71) San Antonio, Texas called me out of the blue Saturday night and invited me over to her home with a group of people to play "Dungeons & Dragons" but I couldn't make it. Hope she'll invited me, again. (9/4/00)

VICKI HOWELL ('73) Sacramento, California [E] sent in an e-mail... "Hey Dennis ! I just received email back from MIKE JUSTICE (73), the man that contacted you recently about reunion info. Mike was in the band, well-liked by everyone. He lives in Dallas now, has been married for 22 years, no kids. He is diabetic, has lost his vision and had a kidney transplant last year (his wife, Terri was the donor). He's in great spirits. His sister, JETTA JUSTICE (71), is a doctor in McAllen, Texas. She is also married, has kids, doing well. I have Mike's address and phone number, should anyone inquire. He's an associate minister in a church in the Dallas area. He also mentions GLEN CANTU (73) in his email, should anyone ask. He is a missionary, living in China with his family at this time. Amazing what life has brought to each of us, isn't it? Truly amazing. Ok, darlin', hang in there and thanks again for a wonderful reunion. Talk to you next Wednesday." ---Thanks for the great update on this folks, Vicki. Good job! (9/4/00)

DENNIS DUPRIEST ('70) San Antonio, Texas [E] What a surprising week this has been! Last Sunday, (8/27/00) my doorbell rings, and I am asleep in bed with a bad cold. I got to the bathroom window in my bedroom (yes, that famous bathroom window facing the front of my house and where I greet all my guests) and standing there was CATHY BACON ('70), who was in town to accept her award from the Northside Independent School District. Cathy had flown down from Woodbridge, Virginia. Since I was ill, we didn't get to speak much, but she brought my the coffee mug she promised me all the way from THE PENTAGON where she works! This mug is gorgeous!! Cathy said she'd call me before leaving town, but somehow we missed each other. So, Cathy, thanks so much for the fantastic coffee mug and for taking time out to come and visit me!!! Today, (9/2/00) I got a phone a phone call from JANICE SAMS ('70) Los Angeles, California. She's in town for her father's birthday. Today, Janice and SHIRLEY ENGLISH ('70), Bulverde, Texas, got together and went up to Austin to visit with CLAIR NEYLAND ('70). Janice is coming over to my house in the morning to visit with me. She heads back to L.A. on Monday. At 7:30, tonight, I get another phone call from TONY SORIA ('70), Chatsworth, California! He's in town for his mom's eye surgery. So, at 8:00, Tony shows up on my doorstep for a visit! Wow! We spent the past 90 minutes laughing, telling stories, and talking about the good old days. Tony goes back to California in the morning. This past Thursday, he and CHARLIE FREEMAN ('70) Gilbert, Arizona, DAVID McEATHRON ('70) Pflugerville, Texas and DANNY TREVINO ('70), San Antonio, Texas, were going to surprise me by showing up at "THE GUYS" meeting at Pizza Hut, because it was the last Thursday of the month. Unfortunately, THE GUYS meet on the last FRIDAY of the month!! We met a week ago! They went to Pizza Hut and no one was there!!! LOL What a bunch of goof balls!! Anyway, it's been great hearing from all these folks and I look forward to my visit with Janice in the morning. WOW! As soon as I finished typing that last sentence, my phone rings and it's CLAIR NEYLAND in Austin! Clair called to thank me for keeping all of us in touch with one another so that he visit with janice and Shirley could come about, today. Clair said the three of them, along with Clair's mother laughed and cried for hours during their visit. It's hearing things like that that makes me feel so great. That I can bring friends together after so many, many years. Clair and I are going to get together real soon. Over these many yeras, Clair and I have become very close. She means the world to me. I love her as I love all of you, my friends of a lifetime. (9/2/00)

AUGUST 2000

CHARLES "CHUCK" EVERINGHAM ('70) Colorado Springs, Colorado, has died. Our friend and former classmate, DON PIPPIN ('70) Lakewood, Colorado [E] just sent me an e-mail and said that Chuck died last week, primarily from liver failure and other internal problems. The funeral will be this week in Denver, Colorado on Wednesday, August 30, 2000. Chuck was formerly married to CINDY URBACH ('72). I think they have two sons and that Cindy lives in Pueblo, Colorado. There are no other details available at this time. Chuck's family, friends, and he is in our prayers. I last saw Chuck about five years ago when he came over to my house. He had just retired from the Air Force and had come to San Antonio to put his mom in a nursing home. He brought over a bottle of wine and we sipped the wine, told funny stories and laughed for hours. There was another classmate over at my house that night, but I can't remember who it was. Chuck was a gentle giant. Back in school, he once told me he wished he could be on the stage like I did in all the school plays. That made me feel good, that someone like Chuck wanted to be like me. I told him, I wish I was as tall as he was and had his athletic ability. We were total opposites, but we were friends. I only heard from Chuck one other time about three years ago, I think. It's hard to remember. He called me out of the blue, just to say hello and to tell me he really enjoyed the class newsletters. I will miss Chuck. I will miss him very much. My life is richer for having known him. (8/27/00)

BOB WILLIAMS ('69) Houston, Texas [E] expresses his sympathies and memories about Chuck Everingham in this e-mail to me... "Dear Dennis, When I turned on my e-mails, yesterday, I was hit with the caption "Chuck Everingham has died". I sat there stunned for a few minutes and then I started crying. I really don't know why I started crying, the last time I talked to Chuck was 15 years ago. Maybe, because I didn't talk to him and now don't have the chance or maybe because I know that at my age, I too am vunerable. We are getting old. Chuck & I became very good friends after high school, we had both just broken up with our girlfriends and we cried on each other's shoulder. Chuck & I had a tradition, every New Years Eve we would have a roman candle fight, I don't know if it was the liquor or that we were just bad shots, but we never hit each other. We would laugh for days about the one that shot by our ears, to this day every time I see a roman candle I think of Chuck. You are right Dennis, he was a big teddy bear in a huge body. He had the kindest heart of anyone I knew. The good Lord only gives us a short time on this earth and it is up to us to make the most of it. I am even more thankful that I was able to attend the reunion and say hi to some old friends. God bless." --- You put it so eloquently, Bob. I know your friendship meant a lot to him, as it did to all of us. (8/29/00)

PAUL SCOTT ('70) Santa Monica, California [E] sent me an e-mail to share with everyone..."First of all, Dennis, thank you for taking the time to inform us all of Chuck's passing. My sincerest condolences to Cindi and the family. Chuck was someone we all knew through his high profile in the athletic arena. While my association with Chuck barely exceeded this level, he was someone that I held in high regard, I think mostly because, even though he was large enough to intimidate most anybody, he never seemed to do so. I think I can speak for many of the smaller guys at school when I say we really appreciated that. What struck me most about this sad news, however, was the sudden realization that "it's happening". We are vulnerable. As a group, we've all been going through stages since high school. We were lucky enough to be born on the cusp of exciting times when the world was going through convulsive changes. We, in some small way, helped the process along simply by voicing our thoughts out loud back then. Remember how it felt when, for a short few years in the late 60's and early seventies, everybody was nice to each other (well, almost) and Peace and Love really did mean something (thanks again, Dennis for doing your part to keep it alive!). For most of us, that feeling faded over the years as we hunkered down to take care of business. Well, we've just been reminded that we don't have forever. Therefore, I'd like to propose something. In honor of Chuck Everingham... for the next week, I want all of you to get back into the "groove". I want you to remember that "feeling" again, and I want you to treat people like you trust them completely, be extra nice to everyone. You'll be pleasantly surprised how good this will make you feel. And just as important, I want you to think of some way you can make your community, state or planet, a better place. Then act on this thought. Write a letter to the editor, volunteer at a retirement home or help someone fix their car. If you see trash on the ground, pick it up. Recycle. There are thousands of options. Pick one or two you like. But do it. The world will be a better place because of you. That's all." --- Thanks for the deep thoughts, Paul (8/29/00)

GEORGE HUNTER ('70) Germany [E] keeps it brief and consise, but says it all... "Dear Dennis, So sorry to hear of another Mustang go to those blue fields, above. I do thank you for the information....heart felt sorrows to his sons and family." --- Thanks George. Take care my friend.

RENITA FOSTER ('71) Red Bank, New Jersey [E] sent me an e-mail that I'd like to share with those classmates who served in our Armed Forces or who are still in the service..."Dear Dennis, as a military feature writer I'm always looking for good soldier stories - it can be anything, so as long as it's entertaining, humorous, something all soldiers can learn from or would enjoy reading. It can be from any war - I think the only ones my generation would have would be Vietnam and up. If any of my classmates from John Jay, who are in the service and it doesn't matter which one or who are retired, have a good anecdote of military life, I would love to hear from them and get it in print." ---OK, old soldiers! have you got a story you can share with Renita? Something your comrads-in-arms would enjoy? If so, please clcik this e-mail link and write to her... Southernbabe22@aol.com (8/22/00)

GERALD GILES ('70) Moscow, Idaho [E] was in town this week to attend his mother's funeral. Saturday afternoon, I was sitting here in my computer room, waiting on a lady friend to come over. My doorbell rings, and I assumed it was her. I yelled, "Come in!" and I heard the door open and close. I shouted out, "Hey, you're 15 minutes early." then a man's deep voice bellowed out, "I am?" I friggin' freaked!!!!!! I thought it was my lady friend I had let in but it was some strange man!! God, it scared the hell out of me. Then the voice in the living room said, "Dennis? This is Jerry." My heart nearly lept out of my chest! We both laughed so hard when I walked into the living room and saw him. We spent about an hour talking about the reunion, old school days and his mother's passing away this past wee. I told him I had just gotten a letter from GEORGE HUNTER ('70) and he said for me to tell George that he owes Jerry a bottle of whiskey, from some trip to Mexico or something! We had a great visit. For those of you that wrote an e-mail note to Jerry this week about his mom's death, please know that he has not had access to a computer while he's here in San Antonio, but will return your e-mails when he returns home Monday afternoon to Idaho. It's wonderful to get to know Jerry better. He and I knew one another enough to say HI back in school, but that was about it. We hung out in different circles, yet, to see he and I talk, today, it's like we've been the closest of friends for years. He's a good, good man and now a good, good friend. (8/20/00)

MIKE COULING ('70) San Antonio, Texas [E] has some great news. He's been promoted to Vice President of Operations for the Old San Francisco Steak House restuarants. I am also happy to announce that Mike has agreed to serve as one of the organizers of our mini-reunion & my birthday party next year on SATURDAY, JULY 7, 2001. Since this will not be a full-fledge reunion for any class, it will be a ONE DAY EVENT. More details in the months to come! (8/20/00).

LINDA (Lin) HUGHES ('69) Butler, Pennsylvania [E] Sent me an e-mail to let me know she has moved from Ohio to Pennsylvania... "Hello Denis, Lin and I are just settling into our new place in Pennsylvania, and wanted to give you our new address and phone , we had hoped to make the reunion but it just did'nt work out, sound like it was great....Hey what is the John Jay website address I thought I had it stored but , oh well this is the first time back on line in a month..we would love to go online and see the group picture....hey, well. talk to ya soon and thanks for all your efforts in keeping everyone in touch Lin Parsons H 34 Forest Heights Butler, PA 16001 Phone: 724-285-6559 ---Good to hear from ya' Lin! (8/18/00)

LEDA PERKINS ('72) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me this e-mail today... "Hello Dennis, I just wanted to let you know that Connie Reed's (72) brother, Dave was diagnosed with cancer some time back. He recently had a bad spell. He was operated on and they discovered the cancer has gone into his heart and liver. He has been given about 4 months to live. I have known Connie and her family since 9th grade. They are wonderful people. I know this is a horrible time for them. Maybe you could let everyone know and they could all put her and her family in their prayers. Some of her old friends might want to contact her and let her know they are thinking of her. She has a new email address. I don't know if she has had time to send it to you yet. It is clreed902@home.com ---Thanks for the info, Leda. He is in our prayers (8/13/00) UPDATE FROM LEDA: "Hello Dennis, I just wanted to give you a quick update on Connie Reed's, brother Dave. He passed away last Friday, August 18. He was laid to rest on Monday. I want to say thanks to everyone who put them in their prayers and thoughts. And especially you Dennis for giving us the avenue to keep connected." ---May God comfort his family and friends in this time of sorrow. (8/26/00)

JULY 2000
FOR NEWS ON WHAT HAPPENED AT THE REUNION, PLEASE GO BACK TO THE "INDEX" PAGE AND GO TO THE "REUNION WRAP-UP" SECTION AND CLICK THE BUTTON TO BE TAKEN THERE.

JANICE SAMS ('70) Los Angeles, California [E] sent me an e-mail, today... "Dear Dennis, just a short note to say i'm back from Peru and I have got a new email address: JanSC52@aol.com. I will be coming to San Antonio on Labor Day weekend Iand 'm hoping to see you. Glad everything went well at the reunion and I'm looking forward to seeing you soon. Love, Janice" --- It's wonderful to know you're safe and sound back in the states, Janice and I can't wait to see you. I have already changed your e-mail address on the e-mail page. Love you, too! (7/31/00)

KAREN SCHNEIDER ('74) San Antonio, Texas [E] isn't really a John Jay Mustang, but she sorta' is. Kinda' but not totally. Oh, heck, I'll let her tell the story... "Dennis, I am Karen Schneider Hodge, but...I was not a Jay Mustang. Actually I am a Marshall Ram, Class of 1974. However, I have lifelong friends that went to Jay. Should anyone hear from Clifton Butler, Class of 1973, please let me know. I dated Cliff for 2 years..my freshman and sophomore years. He was in the band. I also have many other friends from Jay, I attended Lackland Terrace Church of Christ...so there was no escaping them...My sister-in-law...was LORA KUMPF ('72). So, if you can figure out a place to put me on on the email list...I only have this address and the sure way to find me is at: sweetpea61956@yahoo.com. My homepage is: http://sweetpea61956.tripod.com/KARENHODGE.index.html I hope to hear from you all, Karen" ---By the authority vested in me, by myself, I hereby declare you an Honorary Mustang! You are now listed on the e-mail page under the Class of 1974! Amen. (7/31/00)

PAULA EDGIN ('70) Williamsburg, Virginia [E] sent me an e-mail that I'd like to share with everyone... "Dear Dennis, Greetings!. I know you probably don't remember me; however, a look at the '68 yearbook might jog your memory. I went to school in San Antonio from grades 7-10, spending only my sophomore year (1967-68) at John Jay. I still have my Silver Spurs jacket and uniform!!!!! Actually, I went to school with the kids there longer than any place I lived. As a result of my dad's military transfer, I ended up in Bremerhaven, Germany my senior year and graduated there.... I have stayed in touch with WANDA DARLEY ('70) through all these years, and we had the opportunity to see each other in San Antonio last summer (my mom lives in Abilene). I had planned to come to the reunion this summer - at Wanda's suggestion (she had spoken to you about it earlier)....unfortunately, I was unable to attend. In the back of my mind, I sort of thought I might be "crashing the party" since I didn't graduate from John Jay. I have literally devoured your web site this week and am so disappointed that I was not there!! I am thrilled to hear you may have a follow-up reunion. If so, would it be OK to add me to the list? Barring anything unforeseen, I would love to see all of you. So many memories came back to me as I perused every part of the web site. Who knows? I may luck out and find a few people who actually do remember me!! I have lived in Williamsburg, Virginia, for the last three years with my husband of 27 years. I am now teaching English in a private academy after spending 25 rewarding years in the public schools. Most of the last 20 years were spent in Atlanta, Georgia, where my son grew up. He is now in his fourth year at the University of Georgia.... Congratulations on a tremendous undertaking and a complete success! Again, thanks to Wanda, I am now on your mailing list and if it's appropriate to add me to the e-mail directory, that would be great. I will put a check in the mail tomorrow as a small token of my appreciation for all you have done to keep the memories alive. I am sure you are absolutely swamped with e-mails right now, but I hope you will get a chance to read this; I'd love to hear from you and anyone else who might remember me. Thanks again and best wishes for success in all you do. Paula" --- Paula, it is wonderful to have you back with us! Once a Mustang, always a Mustang! I will be adding your e-mail address to my own mailing list as well as the web site list under 1970! Hope you can make our mini-reunion next year! Again, welcome back! (7/30/00)

VALORIE GARDNER ('76) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me this e-mail. Please be so kind as to read this and see if you can help. "Hi Dennis - my name was Valorie Gardner, I graduated in 1976. As you have heard, Mr. Schreiber was killed in a plane accident a year ago April and has since been named for the Band Directors Hall of Fame and will be inducted on Monday, July 24th. I am helping Shirley Schreiber put together music and a memorabilia notebook to be displayed permanently for him. I am in desperate need of a "We Try Harder" pin that would mean so much to Shirley if I could find one - and any other great pictures or other items anyone would like to donate. I am also in need of a recording of "Elsa's Procession" which was one of Mr. Schreibers' all time favorite song. Could you please broadcast to the band members or better yet give me the list so that I can? I totally appreciate anything you can do to help!!! Much love, Valorie" ---I hope we can help come through for you, Valorie. How about it, Mustangs??!! (7/17/00)

MR. MAX HARVEY, former John Jay H.S. Social Studies Teacher, San Antonio, Texas [E] responded by e-mail to my invitation to come to the reunion... "Hi Dennis, Thanks for the invite to the reunion but I already made plans for the 22d. I retired from John Jay in 1992 and have been going strong ever since. My wife died in 1986 and I am still single but going strong. I square dance at least twice a week and really enjoy it. Yes I am still dating at my age and enjoying it very much. Dennis I don't see the old time teachers from Jay very often. I talk to Margie Valentine and I see coach Jerry Mason ever so often. He got married and retired from Clark High School a couple of years ago. I'll cut this short but I will sure and make your next reunion. Give me a call when you have time. During hunting season I spend most of my time in West Texas trying to get another trophy to hang on my walls. I checked out your web site and I really enjoyed it. Its almost midnight and this old man must get off this computer and go to bed. Thanks again for the invite, see you next time." --- Thanks for getting in touvh with me, Mr. Harvey. If you plans change, feel free to just show up at any of the events! (7/17/00)

DANNY PADRON ('70) San Antonio, Texas [E] and I went out to Pedrotti's Ranch, this morning to scope things out. Folks this place is so cool! And I mean temperature-wise, too! If you're worried about "sweating to the oldies" at the Saturday night dinner/dance, don't worry about it! It's gonna be nice and cool inside! Now, some quick directions...

First of all, the full name of the place is PEDROTTI'S NORTHWIND PARTY RANCH, so, that's the sign you should be looking for. Now, as you turn into the entrance (which is on your right as you go down Hausmann Road, just 7/10 of a mile from Loop 1604) you will come to a "fork" in the road. There are several facilities. Ours is called "BROKENMILL". So, as you drive in and come to the fork in the road, take the LEFT FORK. Bear to the left and follow the road. When you come to a place where you have to turn left or right, you will see another entrance, right in front of you, called "CHUCKWAGON". Turn to the left, again, do not go thru that "Chuckwagon" entrance. As you turn left, you will see the western town facade of the party building, "BROKENMILL". It is so friggin' cool!! Wait till you see it.

I can't praise Danny enough for all his hard work and dedication in working with me on this. I am not the easiest guy to work with and Danny just rolls with the punches and makes things work. The weather is going to be so hot that Danny feels we should cancel the baseball game we had planned for Saturday morning. And he's right. That's just too much! Maybe next time. Well, I am so very grateful for his help, as I am with another classmate, CAROL LIPSEY ('70) for running the Friday Night social at the school cafeteria. What a blast that will be! I also must extend my appreciation to MIKE COULING ('70) and WILLY LOWE ('71) for their outstanding efforts in assuring that the pizza party is taken care of! Great job, ya'll! (7/15/00)

SHARNEL MORGAN ('76) San Antonio, Texas [E] called me to say she has rounded up about 20 of her classmates who will be attending the Friday night social at the school and then going on over to the Mr. Gatti's Pizza Party with all of us! YEEE HAAAA!!! She and some friends are thinking about having a 25 year reunion, next year. Interested classmates should contact her, now. Her e-mail address is on our e-mail links page. (7/15/00)

MR. WALTER CHESSHIR, former John Jay H.S. Social Studies Teacher, Jourdanton, Texas [E] called me tonight and we spoke for about an hour, laughing and screaming about people and the good old days at John Jay. He is really excited about seeing eveyone and he and his wife will be attending the reunion. He is teaching at Providence Catholic High School in San Antonio. Mr. Chesshir is even on the internet! I have added his e-mail address to the links page, if you want to write him or you can try clicking here: walt_edi@hotmail.com (I hope that links works!!) (7/12/00)

TIM TANT ('69) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me an e-mail, all excited about the reunion... "Hey, Dennis, just letting you know that I will see ya'll at the reunion. I am working at Dyess A.F.B. in Abilene Texas.. It will be good to see all of you again. I've have my check made out since June 12 and I will mail it today. I made the check out to Danny Padron, well, I didn't, my wife did "Ha,Ha." I am in San Antonio every weekend. Give me a call and I will take you and Danny out to dinner. See ya'll on the 21st!" --- Good to hear from you, Tim. Danny and I will take you up on the dinner in the near future! For God's sake, why have you waited so long to mail that check!! I bet you turned your homework assignments in late too, didn't you!! All the best to you, my friend. (7/12/00)

MR. TERRY McGUIRE, former John Jay H.S. Principal 1967-74, San Antonio, Texas [E] called me, tonight. He will not be able to attend the reunion. He is on the local Shriners Board of Directors and has to make a trip to Lincoln, Nebraska, on the same weekend as our reunion. He send his regrets to everyone and says he will really miss seeing us. He is going to write me a letter to read to you all on Saturday night at the dinner/dance. He has allowed me to list his e-mail address on the e-mail links page, so if you want to drop him a line, click this link: tmcguire@shrinenet.org By the way, I have NEVER attempted to insert a mail-link on these pages, so I don't guarantee that it'll work. If not, just type it yourself or go to the e-mail page on this site. We will miss Mr. McGuire for sure, but he says he'll be at the next reunion! (7/11/00)

GLENN BURCHARD ('69) Austin, Texas [E] has expressed some of the kindest words that I have ever been fortunate enough to be spoken about. He writes... "Dennis, If anyone ever put their heart and soul into anything, it's you as it relates to this reunion! I'm not sure how you do it but I'm sure there are countless others beside myself who are glad that you care enough about us to make this happen. I know that there are others helping, but it's your passion that keeps it going. I had not been able to check out the site for almost the past two weeks. My mom became unexpectedly ill in San Antonio and then we lost her on June 30th. I'm not sure I've felt its full impact yet. Then, I had a business trip that I just got back from this morning. Anyway, I'm trying to make the point that there sure has been a lot of activity on the web site and I believe it's due in large part to your unbridled enthusiasm and love for the people who shared our experiences at Jay. To steal a line from Field of Dreams, "If you build it, they will come". Well, with your leadership you have built the reunion and those who are moved to come and are able to come, will. You've done a wonderful job, so pat yourself on the back a bit and feel good about what you're doing! See you on the 21st." --- Glenn, I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. Please know that she is in our prayers, as is your family. Thank you for your kind words of praise, my friend. That means a lot to me. See you soon! (7/11/00)

JIM McNEIL ('69) & CANDI (GILBERT) McNEIL ('70) Renton, Washington [E] has sent an e-mail that expresses his concerns about my announcing the possible end of the twice-a-year class newsletter that I have been sending out for the past 14 years... "Hey Dennis! Just a quick note to let you know that I'm sorry to hear that this was going to be the last newsletter you mail out to everyone. I know that it's been a long and tedious undertaking, but I MUST let you know that I have really looked forward to getting it every six months. I've lost contact with almost everyone that Candi and I went to school with, either by losing addresses or just plain out-and-out forgetfullness (old age, I guess). Each time we got a newsletter, there was always at least one or two names in your updates that immediately brought back memories (majority of which were very fond memories) and feelings of the "old" school chums. Each time I saw a name I'd known, there would be instant images of their faces, clothes they wore, attitudes of each person, wonderful and inspiring teachers and classmates, and I would ask myself if I would recognize anyone, if, I came upon them on the street--or vice-versa. It was just great hearing that they were all doing ok, each in their own way. There were also the ones that have now gone on to a better world. Every time I read about someone who had been taken from us, or the ones that have been suffering from illnesses and cancers, it would hurt and hurt deeply. I would sit down and try to remember if it was someone I was close to, dated, or a friend. OR, were they someone that I might have caused pain to, on purpose or unintentionally and I never got to say "I'm sorry!". However hard it was to read about them, I imagine how much it took out of you to have to report it to all of us. Let me just say this--I APPRECIATE YOU!!!!!! and hold you in high regard for just keeping it going for all of us. Yeah, I know, I got a little deep, huh? Anyway, what it boils down to is that it's not going to be the same anymore without the newsletters, but you can give everyone my e-mail and mailing address-- Jim and Candi (Gilbert) McNeil 1700 Harrington Ave. NE, Renton, Washington 98056. Would you also do me a big favor and tell hello to everyone for me and Candi?? Especially Rick Slayton, Terri Pitner, the Bird Bros., Eileen Young, aw heck, EVERYBODY!! We really miss all of them and wish we could be there this time. And would you please tell everyone I said -- "I'm SORRY!!!"--just in case?? Thanks so much for everything -- KEEP IN TOUCH, Jim and Candi." --- After having read your e-mail and that of Glenn Burchard (see above) I just felt like sitting here and crying. It almost sounded like you were delivering a eulogy over my body! Ha! I can't believe that what I have been doing these past 14 years has meant that much to people. Believe me, just two days ago, I was scolded over the phone by a former John Jay student for spending too much time "living in the past" and for not respecting people wishes not to attend this reunion or any reunion for that matter. That I shouldn't be pressuring people to attend. I was told that most people got on with their lives, and that I should get a "grip" because in the long run, this reunion really doesn't matter or make or break anyone. I never thought I was pressuring people, but rather, that I was trying to encourage them to attend. I don't know. I just don't know, sometimes. I wear my heart on my sleeve where people can easily hurt my feelings, so I guess that's my fault. Thank you, Jim, Candi, Glenn, and everyone who has expressed their appreciation to me over the years. And I extend an apology to anyone who felt I was pressuring them to attend this reunion. I guess I was being selfish. I just wanted a chance to enrich my life by seeing you again. If that's wrong, well, then, I'm sorry. As for ending the newsletter, well, that is still up in the air. We'll see what happens after this reunion. If the support for the newsletter is still there (spiritually, financially, and interest-wise) maybe I'll reconsider. Thanks for your wonderful words. They have really touched my heart. (7/11/00)

WARREN WHITAKER ('70) Austin, Texas [E] dropped me an e-mail, today..."Hi Dennis, A quick note to tell how sorry I am not to be able to make it to the reunion as I will be in Abilene attending a wedding. I appreciate everything that you have done and all you efforts, and am so very grateful for your friendship. Be sure to say thanks for me to everyone else who has rallied behind you to pull this reunion off. I know it will be a huge success and a big blast!! Enjoy yourself and I'll give you a holler next time I am in San Antonio. Always With Best Wishes" ---You'll be missed by everyone, Warren. You are a good friend, my friend! Have fun in Abilene. (7/10/00)

BETTY BURCHFIELD ('74) Virginia Beach, Virginia [E] found this web site and loves it! She e-mailed me saying... "Dear Dennis, What a wonderful website! You have truly done an outstanding job. Honestly, I have hesitated in writing, but finally mustered up the nerve. I'm not sure anyone will remember me. I am Betty Burchfield Kole. I live in Virginia Beach, Virginia with my husband of 19 years, Jeff and our two children Shawn Christopher, 16 and Sandra Michelle, 14. My husband is retired Navy and owns his own business. I graduated from Texas Woman's University with a degree in nursing. I spent some time on active duty, but went into the reserves when the kids came along. I am currently a Commander (0-5) in the Navy reserves. I work full time as a school nurse. I just finished a two year term as President of our local nurse's association. I teach CPR for the school division wellness program and am working on a master's degree. (I guess you're never too old to learn). My sister, Patricia Burchfield Reile, lives in Floresville with her husband of 30 years and their three children. They are both teachers. Our parents live in Lake Hills at Medina Lake. Mom has recently been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, but is under treatment and has an excellent prognosis. She's had a tough time, but is a real fighter and will do well. I'll be checking back often to see the updates. This has brought back so many memories for me. It was truly one of the best times!" ---Welcome back to the Mustangs, Betty! Please know that your mom is in our prayers. If there is any way you can make the reunion at the last moment, please join us! (7/10/00)

JILL TEMPLE ('72) New Braunfels, Texas [E] was out of town for the wekend at another reunion, as I tried to call her and thank her for the flowers she sent me on my birthday! She writes an e-mail to me saying... "Dear Dennis, It sounds like you had a wonderful birthday! What did you do after work? The young lady from your office, that I talked to, said they were taking you out for lunch. Where on earth does one go to lunch in Somerset, Texas?!!! I was out of town this weekend. My Mother, brother, and sister went to my mom's High School Reunion. She graduated in 1945 from Midlothian HS. She attended Thomas Jefferson H.S. in San Antonio for three years, but went back home to Midlothian for her Senior year. (Granddad worked Civil Service on Kelly AFB.) For that year, she lived with my really neat Great-Grandmother, who had just lost her husband. There were 28 in the Midlothian H.S. Class of 1945! I think that nine of them came to the reunion. It was an "All Classes" reunion and everyone was invited. I estimate that there were about 1,000 in attendance. The oldest graduate was from the class of 1930. They were expecting a graduate from the class of 1923, but her health failed at the last minute. Very few graduates from the 1970's, 1980's, or 1990's attended. I had a great time connecting with some family members and meeting my Mother's classmates. I am glad that you had a great birthday and enjoyed the flowers. Age is just a state of mind, and you are still 18! See you at the reunion! Jill" ---Again, thanks so much for the beautiful flowers on my birthday, Jill. It's sounds like you had a fun time at your mom's reunion. See you soon! (7/9/00)

KRISTINE SEAQUIST ('70) Clinton, Maryland [E] sent me a beautiful birthday card that she picked up in Germany or Austria. She writes... "Geburtstag? Klar kommen wir! (Translation: Birthday? Clearly we come!") Happy Birthday, Dennis! We, my kids and I, just got back from Germany and Austria for our vacation. Quite awesome to be sure! I hope you have a wonderful birthday and great reunion, God bless you real good!" --- Kris, thanks so much for the lovely birthday card. I had a blast! We will miss you at the reunion. Take care! (7/8/00)

KARIN WALTERS ('69) Crosby, Texas [E] sent me a most wonderful e-mail... "Hi Dennis, I'm sitting in the house this afternoon trying to escape the blazing heat with humidity to match. I read your latest email to all and can honestly say that anyone who may be undecided at this point, needs to read your inspirational message. You are one special person. And you have made an attempt to make us all feel very special. I look very much forward to seeing you. Also, a very Happy Birthday to you, belated I know...but look at as a continuation of a cause to celebrate. I hope you were entertained, wined, dined, and celebrated by your friends and family. Most of all, I hope you realize how exceptional you are. I'll see you in a couple of weeks. Carol has contacted me prior to her family ventures, and will be in touch with me when she returns re: decorating for Friday night social. I hope to be as helpful as possible...I do have a few obligations with my family, but intend on at least lending a hand for a couple of hours. Let's hope the last minute stragglers will come through! xxoo, Karin" ---Gosh, Karin, you make me feel great with your kind words and for the birthday thoughts! I guess I'm getting a little nervous about things as the reunion gets close and closer. Your words have calmed my heart!! Can't wait to give ya' a hug!! Thank you for volunteering to help decorate the school cafeteria for the Friday night social. Anyone else wanting to help with that should call CAROL LIPSEY ('70) in Bulverde: (830) 980-3177. That is a toll-free call from San Antonio. (7/8/00)

CATHY BACON ('70) Woodbridge, Virginia [E] sent me an e-mail with some wonderful news... "Dear Dennis, First, let me wish you a very Happy Birthday! Secondly, I am sorry that I will not be able to attend the reunion! Please tell eveyone that I had planned on coming but will be TDY at that time. I am in the midst of a pending transfer and the dates of my pre-assignment actions and the reunion are in direct conflict--so I regretfully cannot attend. Thirdly, and not least, let me thank you for recommending me to the Northside School District for the "Pillar" award. I'll get this award in August (see e-mail message from Ms. Bonnie Ellison, below, received today). I'm sure that there are many many other "pillars" in our class, and I will be honored to represent us at the awards ceremony this August. Dennis, I can only think they considered me because you must have passed along communications--thanks for any good words that you put in for me. Hope the reunion is the best yet!! Thanks again, Dennis, you are the man! Your communications and service for our class and school have really been the glue that has kept us together. I reckon this rates at LEAST a Pentagon mug . . .Love, Cathy" ---Well, Cathy, on behalf of all your classmates I congratulate you on this honor! This is fantastic!! As for me having anything to do with it, well, I cannot take any direct credit, at least not yet. I am aware that NISD monitors my web site. In fact, I have known Bonnie Ellison at NISD for many years and one of her assistants is SHIRLEY (HARDEN) FERGUSON ('71). Last year, I was asked to serve on one of the committees for the recent anniversary celebration of the NISD school district, but because of other obligations, I wasn't able to. I have no doubt that NISD may have become aware of your career success by reading what I have posted here on the web site. I know that they refer lots of people to my web site for information on classmates. If, I have played a small role in you being acknowledged in this way, I am very proud to have done so. We are all so very proud of you! A Pentagon mug?? WOW!! That would be so cool!! (7/8/00)

Here is the letter from Ms. Bonnie Ellison of NISD to Cathy Bacon informing her of the honor: "Dear Colonel Bacon: Based on your resume and nominations/recommendations of the Northside ISD and Northside Education Foundation Leadership, we'd like you to accept the award of Northside ISD Pillar of Citizenship, to be conferred at a Banquet at Oak Hills Country Club Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2000, at 6 p.m. Briefly, "Six Pillars" of Northside's Foundation are named to be depicted on 28,000 posters which are displayed as sets of six "Pillars" in all NISD classrooms for a period of one year. The six Pillars represent the attributes of: Citizenship (you), Respect, Responsibility, Trustworthiness, Fairness, and Caring - all traits we teach NISD students. The idea is that they can work and dream to grow up to be like you. Thank you for accepting."

DENNIS DUPRIEST - The Birthday Boy... wow, I am almost speechless. I want to thank the 47 classmates who sent me e-mail birthday cards, today! I must admit to being brought to tears with all the wonderful and kind messages you all sent. When I checked my e-mail at 6:30 a.m. this morning, the very first birthday greeting was from my first John Jay girlfriend, KATHY KEISOR ('72), who lives in Alaska. Then, throughout the day, I got more and more of them. In fact, as I am writing this at 10:43 p.m., another one just arrived. While I was at work, a most wonderful surprised happened. JILL TEMPLE ('72) who lives in New Braunfels sent me a beautiful bouquet of flowers! And she had ordered them from "Flowers by Jo" the very same florist in our old neighborhood that we all bought flowers and mums from, back in school! So, my love and thanks to every one of you that remembered me on my birthday, and special appreciation and love to KATHY and JILL for making this such a wonderful birthday for me. Oh, by the way, today was also RINGO STARR's birthday. He is 60 years old! Oh, my goodness!! (7/7/00)

JACKIE DAVIS ('71) Houston, Texas [E] needs some good luck in her life and in time for the reunion. Just read her e-mail to me... "Dear Dennis, back in May, there was a freak accident at work and I had a 900 lb roll of paper fall on my right leg. Spent a few days in the hospital and am now the proud (??!!!) new owner of hardware in my tibia from breaks in two places as well as a wide assortment of compartment injuries which are just too slow to heal even with daily physical therapy. I can't begin to tell you how much this is cramping my summer! Still can't walk or drive yet but I've gotten pretty good at getting around in my wheelchair (just don't look at the nicks in all my walls LOL). I've also gained a greater understanding of what handicapped people go thru on a daily basis during my confinement. I'm still hopeful that I'll be able to make the reunion after all, but right now, it's not looking too likely. If I'm not able to make the reunion, please keep the check as my contribution to the cause, I'll be there in spirit even if I'm not able to make it in the flesh and please give my best to all!" ---Oh my goodness! Jackie, I hope you heal up enough in the next 10 days to be able to make the reunion. You're in our prayers for a speedy recovery. We'll miss you, if you can