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"CLASSMATE NEWS"
ARCHIVE JANUARY 2001- JUNE 2001
The Continuing Adventures of the 'Original' Mighty Mustangs
JOHN JAY HIGH SCHOOL
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, U.S.A.

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JUNE 2001
STEVE FLORES ('70) San Diego, California [E] and I went to the finals, one year, at the Trinity University Speech & Drama competition in 1969 and 1970. We did a scene from "Man of La Mancha." He played Don Quixote and I was Sancho Panza! We had a BLAST at Trinity that weekend! I haven't heard from or seen Steve in 31 years. Yesterday, I find his name at classmates.com. I wrote him and, today, I received a reply. This is so amazing still being able to track down classmates after all these years! He writes..."Hi Dennis! I just replied to the last e-mail you sent me and I just checked out your web site. What a trip! I had to look at my class photo and saw yours too. I will return when I have more time. You can definitely put up my address. I will attach a current photo to this email. So, Dennis, or should I say "Sancho"! - I'll never forget that stuff. How's it going? I remembered your name and was going to write. I just happened upon that link for the Classmate.com. I'm in California, near San Diego. There is no way I could make it to the party. It would be nice to see how people turned out. Are you still in touch with most? How about Duffy? And I forgot our drama teacher's name. I'm a graphic designer. Never married. Played guitar for years. Always had a dog and a wood burning stove. Lived up in Humboldt County for several years (out in the woods). Been in San Diego for 23 years. Broke an ankle really bad while I was a carpenter. Broke a guitar playing finger which made playing real hard." ---Steve, it amazing to hear from you! Actually you were one of the people I had heard was dead! Whew! I'm glad you're not!! LOL As for DUFFY LAZARUS ('69), well, he died about five years ago. I was with him whioe he was in the hospital about a week or two before he died. He truly was a free spirit. I hope you stay in touch and all the best to you, my friend! (6/29/01)

LELAND BEAVERS ('71) Unknown Location [E] has taught me a lesson. Be careful who you contact after 30 years... remember, they have memories, too! I found Leland's name under classmates.com, and got this e-mail from him... "Hello, Dennis. Here's a blast from the past... Leland (Lee) Beavers. Remember Harold's Pizza? You were ahead of the times! I remember you carried in your car a plastic toy (red) telephone and pretended it was a mobile phone! ha ha. What a character! That was you wasn't it? The 60's and early 70's wreaked havoc with my brain cells LOL. I haven't heard anything about a 30 year reunion for class of 71. Do you know anything about it?" ---Leland, what a surprise to hear from you. Try to get your brother Danny ('70) and your twin brother, Stephen ('71) to get in contact with me, too! Of course I remember Harold's Pizza! What a blast we had working there. I STILL have paper cuts from folding pizza boxes! And what about the times, we'd deliver pizza to the barracks at Lackland and short-changed the drunk airmen? Or how about those fantastic times in the women's barracks, when... Well, we'll talk about that some other time! Come to the SHINDIG so we can laugh about old times! (6/29/01)

MAURA CASKEY ('70) Delaware [E] is another classmates from classmate.com and she wrote to me.. "Dear Dennis, I am sorry that I missed the reunion last year. Looks like everyone had a great time. It looks as if I will not be able to attend this one, either. I am filling in for another employee in another branch that I work for. I would love to come back, as I still consider Texas my home, even if it has been 30 years. I am still not used to Delaware. I enjoyed the pictures on your web site, even if the only one I recognized was YOU! Time has flown by. I was telling my mom about your e-mail and we started to talk about John jay and the names that I remembered, the "Swingtime" TV show, and some of the plays (I did costumes because I was too shy to act.) I hope that everyone has fun at the SHINDIG." --- Wow! You really recognized me? I am flattered! Maybe I am the same under neath all this... this... uhh, jolly exterior! Maura, please be sure to stay in touch and we will miss you at the party! (6/28/01)

MARY SANCHEZ ('77) San Antonio, Texas [E] found this web site and sent this e-mail, today... "Dear Dennis, I wanted to say thanks for all the hard work you do in helping all of us stay in touch. My name was Mary Sanchez class of 1977 and now my name is Mary Sanchez Parker. I married DONALD PARKER from the Jay class of 1975. We have a beautiful daughter, Ginger, 9 years old. In January I had Brain surgery to remove a brain tumor. I have been sick since 1995 but thanks to some bad doctors that said "nothing was wrong with me" it took a long time to get help. I have some great doctors now and thanks to them and God and my family and friends I'm fine now and I'm on a long overdue vacation all summer. We are traveling around Texas, New Mexico and Mexico, but I hope to be back by the reunion. I wanted to let you know that my brother ADOLPH SANCHEZ ('69) passed away in 1996 of a heart attack while he was here, visiting my parents. I saw his picture on your web site in the yearbook section, and was happy to see it. When we get home I will show it to his daughter. Please add my E-mail address to your list. Again, thanks for all the hard work you are doing and I hope I get to see you at the Reunion." ---Mary, thanks for geting in touch we me and I hope to meet you at the SHINDIG. Please accept my condolences on behalf of your classmates upon learning of the passing of your brother. Take care and please stay in touch. (6/28/01)

MIKE CUNNINGHAM & SUSAN (SPANG) CUNNINGHAM ('70/'71) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me an e-mail after I tracked him down through classmates.com. Mike always has a way to make me laugh and crack-up. He wrote his e-mail to me using all lower case lettering and no punctutation, he explains why... "dear dennis, i never much cared for english class .....that is why i do not capitalize. i will surely try to make it to the shindig and would love to see everyone. a lot of people thought i had died but i can assure you i am alive and kicking. i'm busy these days working with kids in baseball at columbia little league.. it is a lot of fun working with these beautiful kids. i am the all-star manager for the major division where my son is playing and hope to take our team to the little league world series. my son pitches and he is now 12 years old and he throws in the mid 80s...mph. very proud of him.... my wife, susan sends her love to you and really misses you and all friends that we share in our hearts....and that goes every last one of you, our former classmates. dennis, you are very special and you have the greatest heart of all. love you dennis.....its me (mike) saying it...not susan.... lol... hope you get this and will await your reply.. dennis and all the gang..... i may not have been at the last reunion....but our hearts were and always will be with you till the end of time." ---Thanks so much for the wonderful sentiments Mike and Susan. I hope to hear from you very soon that you've sent in your reservation and will be joining us for the SHINDIG. (6/25/01)

DOUG CRAWFORD ('70) Bulverde, Texas [E] dropped me a line, today... "Dear Dennis, Unfortunately I will not be able to make the dinner this year. My middle son is heading off to UT in the fall and we will be in Austin that weekend. Oh well, the trials of being a parent. He is really excited about going and is planning on majoring in computer science. I hope he does well enough to support his dear old dad in the manner to which I am accustomed......(Yeah right... He's already working some deal with a fly-by-night old folks home!)......Anyway say 'hi' to everyone for me.. I also wanted to let you know that my email address is changing. I got cable modem earlier this year and it works great. My new account is- dcrawford1@satx.rr.com Thanks again for everything you do in keeping up with all us wayward Mustangs. Love is indeed all around." --- Doug, we'll all miss you at the SHINDIG. Our best of luck to your son and stop by the house if you ever get the chance. (6/25/01)

MIKE GRINFIELD ('71) San Antonio, Texas [E] is another Mustang I found at classmates. com and I got an e-mail from him. It turns out, he's in San Antonio!... "Hi Dennis! This is Mike Grinfield. It has been many years since I have seen you. About 31 years, I'd say. I have not kept up with too many people from the good old high school days. Today, I received your e-mail informing me of the next reunion. I went to your web site and was absolutely amazed at the people that are still in the San Antonio area. I think that one of the worst mistakes in my life was dropping out of Jay as a junior. I missed out on a lot of good times and memories. But, I knew everything there was to know ( I thought ) at that time in my life. Soon after leaving having school I married LINDA WRIGHT ('70). That lasted one year. Later, I was engaged to DEBBIE AUSTIN ('71), but we never made it to the altar. Then, I married DEBBIE DUGGER, who had just been through her first divorce. That lasted three and one half years. After all those experiences, I was fortunate to have gotten my life turned around. I am now married to a girl that went to John Marshall High School. We will have been married for 20 years this November and have a 17-year old son also named Mike. I am a manager at Southwest Research Institute, so, I see BILL MIZELL ('70) on occasion. He works right accross the street from me. The only other people that I have seen or talked to are DENISE RUPP ('70), NATHAN WILLIS ('70) and, recently, GEORGE MONK ('71). I did talk to KENNY ELKINS ('70) about two weeks ago. ( Nobody else can call him "Kenny" and live to tell about it.) Well, to make a long story short, I would like to come to the reunion SHINDIG next month. What do I need to do? I would like to bring my wife and son. I think my son would find it a lot of fun. Well, I would probably find it a lot of fun, as well! ---Mike, it's gonna' be a blast to see you at the reunion. I have sent you the information on the SHINDIG, and if you get the chance, tell Denise Rupp that we missed her last year and hope she'll join us this year! (6/22/01)

SOTERO LUCIO ('70) Houston, Texas [E] has dropped me a line, now, that I found him through "classmates.com". He's looking forward to coming to the SHINDIG, on July 14th! This is the first time in 31 years that I have heard from him. He writes... "Dear Dennis, I'm just dropping a few lines from that infamous galloping ghost former Mustang # 22 after some 31 years. Better late than never! I just need Danny Padrons mailing address, so, that i can sign up for that SHINDIG dinner. Also, if, Ican get away from work, I will see ya'll at the Pizza Hut party, on Friday night. Now, that i work for Ma Bell Houston, we do have a problem with flood damage. Just imagine millions of water being pumped out of just one building and the work we have to do to restore service! Well, feel free to give out my e mail add to anybody. Sotero." ---It is going to be great to see you, Sotero. I have already e-mailed your information to you. We'll be sure to save some pizza for you in case you can make it by Friday night! Hey, where's your sister, Dolores? All the best to you! (6/20/01)

JOHN WOOLLEN ('70) Lafayette, Louisiana [E] is another classmates.com Mustang that I was able to find! "Hi Dennis, It was good to hear from a fellow Jay alumni. I don't know if I'll be able to attend the reunion in July, but please post my email address on your website so anyone interested can contact me. My e-mail address is jwoollen@bigfoot.com I'm living in Lafayette, Louisiana, and have been here since 1982. Before that New Orleans, Houston, Corpus Christi, and Morgan City (LA). I am a registered professional engineer specializing in project management for offshore oil and gas projects. Two kids and two stepkids, ages 18 thru 24. Hard to believe it's been over 30 years since high school... Then I look in the mirror. HA HA Really enjoyed your website, and appreciate the time and effort you've spent on it. I'll try to stay in touch more now that you've shared some other email addresses. Best Regards." ---If plans free you up, we love to see you at the SHINDIG!. Stay in touch and it's great to have you back with us! (6/17/01)

VICKIE CULVER ('70) Rapid City, South Dakota [E] has not been back to San Antonio since 1970! I tracked her down through classmates.com and she answered back! "Hi Dennis, This is Vickie Culver. My married name is Mills and I live in Rapid City, SD. I have two grown children and a stepdaughter. My daughter is 20 and is a petty officer in the Navy. My son is 22 and is in the Army Guard and is a carpenter. My step daughter is 29, married and has 2 children, so I guess that makes me a grandma." ---After 31 years, it's wonderful to hear from you, Vickie! Hope you stay in touch. (6/17/01)

GARY LEE ('69) Somewhere in Alaska [E] had hoped to join us for the SHINDIG, but working for Alaska Airlines gives him a busy schedule. He writes... "Hey, guys! (and all the other Texas buddies, too!) I was looking forward to visiting you all in a few weeks, but it doesn't look like it's going to happen. My job requires me to be in Phoenix to get one of our airplanes out of heavy maintenance and returned to service. Don't let that sound too important -- I just audit the paperwork and the delivery process to make sure we do every thing all legal. Delivery was originally scheduled for the end of June, so I was putting off paying for a reservation (because I'm cheap, not because I'm smart). Sure enough, the delivery date has now slid to ... you guessed it ... July 14. We have already spent about $8 million getting this plane rebuilt, and for some reason the big bosses want it delivered, as soon as possible. I don't think telling them I'm going to take a couple of days off is very conducive to happy days in career land, if you know what I mean. So, I won't be visiting the Old San Francisco Steak House this year. I'll certainly wish I was there, and my happy thoughts will be there with you. Enjoy the party, and eat a steak for me." --- We'll miss seeing you at the SHINDIG, Gary, and like you suggested, I'll eat a steak for you! Take care, my friend. (6/14/01)

PAULETTE CLUCK ('70) Mobile. Alabama [E] is another classmate that we tracked down through "classmates.com" and it's great to have her back amongst us after 31 years! She sent an e-mail to me with an update on her life... "Hi Dennis, this ss Paulette Sellers, formerly, Paulette Cluck. I am responding to your e-mail. I can not attend the reunion, but here is some information about my life since graduating from Jay in 1970. I went to Community College in San Antonio and graduated in June of 1971. Moved to Austin and went to work for Farmers Insurance Group. I married Bill Sellers, on July 14, 1973 and moved to Mobile, Alabama in June of 1974. My husband is a school teacher in Mobile County School system. I work for the University of South Alabama. We have two sons- Thom, who is 25, is a Army RN and is married to Stefani, who is also a Army RN. They have one daughter named, Feliciti, who is 17 months old and a baby that is due any day now. My other son is Denver, he is single and 20. My e-mail is: yellowrose@gateway.com My phone is :334-653-7697 My home adress is: 7170 Congo Road Theodore, AL 36582" ---Paulette, it is wonderful to hear from you after all these years! Once a MUSTANG, always a MUSTANG! (6/13/01)

JAY FERGUSON ('70) Arlington, Texas [E] has moved back to Texas! Here's his e-mail all about it..."Hi Dennis, Just thought I would drop you a line to let you know that I have moved back to Texas after living in Georgia for 15 years. I am now working for Miller Brewing Company (YES, we get free beer!). We won't be able to come to the reunion, but, tell everyone I said 'Hi.' My new mailing address is: 700 High Eagle Drive, Arlington, Texas 76001 (817) 477-2637 God bless." --- Jay, it's a pleasure to welcome you back to the Lone Star state! be sure to stay in touch! (6/13/01)

VICKI HOWELL ('73), Los Angeles, California [E] sent me a wonderful e-mail that she said I could share with everyone... "Dear Dennis, Something pretty wonderful is happening in my life and I wanted to let you all in on the big news. As some of you know, WAYNE POTTER ('72) and I have been in touch this year. There's lots of stuff inbetween, of course, but the upshot is that we have reunited after a nearly 30 year separation and love has bloomed! We are so excited about the whole thing and are looking forward to life together, catching up for time lost. Some of you know that Wayne and I first met in junior high school, at church and school, where we took piano lessons and performed together. He went on to become our band's drum major 1970-71 and 1971-72, while I participated as a lowly flute player! Our lives slowly took different paths in high school, but we always regarded each other with great respect and affection. All of that has come to fruition and created a new, wonderful opportunity for us to embark on life's journey together. In that spirit, I want to announce to you all that Wayne and I plan to be married this month...on June 23rd, in southern California. Our four daughters, some family and friends will be gathering with us at that time as we first celebrate my youngest daughter's high school graduation, then have a small and intimate wedding ceremony two days later. We hope that you will share in the extreme joy we feel and the happiness it has brought to everyone that knows us. This truly is a miracle, one which has amazed us so far and, we suspect, will continue on for the rest of our lives. Now, if by some chance you'll be in Los Angeles on June 23rd... let us know! The more the merrier. We don't have the time and location settled yet, but we're fairly confident we won't have trouble finding a minister or a spot to do the deed. Oh, and if you aren't aware, we'll be living in Topeka, Kansas as our base of operations. Wayne's career will be best served by staying in this area for awhile, although we did try to get him a job in California. But, that was not to be and we are content to live here for now. We'll be traveling to San Antonio in July, to attend the SHINDIG, and then, back to northern California at the end of July. Somewhere in there, we go to Arizona for a few days. My head is spinning!! " --- On behalf of all your fellow classmates and alumni from John Jay High School, I extend a sincere and heartfelt congratulations to the two of you and pray that your life together will be filled with love, joy and happiness! (6/6/01)

REGINA ALLEN ('70) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me an e-mail, tonight, after her visit to my home..."Dear Dennis, it was great to see you today through the infamous bathroom window. It was even more fun seeing your face when you realized who I was. Boy, you really got to the front door fast! You know, I never knew I was "missing" or I would have contacted you sooner. I spent hours last week looking at the web site, going over every picture to see who I could remember. My daughter really liked looking at our class pictures It is great fun to reminisce and I look forward to seeing everyone at the Shindig in July. Talk to you next week." ---I look forward to seeing ya', Regina! (6/2/01)

DENNIS DUPRIEST... personal note: MY SINCERE AND HEARTFELT THANKS TO MICHAEL JUSTICE ('73), JON DAVIS ('70) and THE WONDERFUL BETTY CONSANI ('70) FOR ALLOWING ME TO WORK WITH THEM THROUGH "CLASSMATES.COM" TO CONTACT OVER 75 "MISSING MUSTANGS" OVER THE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND. Wow, AND what a week this has been! This week I have heard from ROBERTA HOPP ('70), GAIL GOODPASTER ('71), JUDY CHASTAIN ('70), RICHARD ELLINGTON ('73), ELLEN FIELDS ('70), WILLIAM BRANDHORST ('71) and others!! I have added their e-mail addresses to the links page.

I have also heard from two other MISSING MUSTANGS that I have been searching for these past 30 years! SOTERO LUCIO ('70) was one of those I found through "classmates.com"! He replied to my e-mail, yesterday, and he's back amoungst us!! He says he'll be contacting DANNY PADRON ('69) and I guess that means he'll be coming to the SHINDIG 2001 in July! AND GET A LOAD OF THIS!!!! About 30 minutes ago, I was laying down on my bed after a BIG meal and my door bell rings. I hop out of bed, go to the bathroom window, open it and say, "HELLO?" This woman walks over to the window. Her eyes look familiar although I cannot place her. She's smiling and say, "Remember me?" Well, right off, I know it has to be a former classmate. I tell her that her eyes look familiar, give me a hint. And she says, "I am the first name on your MISSING MUSTANGS list." The gears in my mind snap to attention and I yell, "YOU'RE REGINA ALLEN!" And it was!!!! Regina still lives in the old area!! In fact, when I went to dinner this evening at the Sirloin Stockage down Marbach, outside Loop 410, Regina lives within a couple of hundred yards of that restaurant!!!! WOW!!! She was driving through the area with her daughter and said let's fo surprise Dennis! Her daughter is a Junior at John Jay!! Wow! It blew me away!! I was great to see her and she looks fantastic! I mean like 10 years young than me!! Come to think of it ALL the girls in our class look 10 years younger than the guys!! Any way, she and I talked for about 15 minutes and I even gave her a couple of "koozies" from last year's reunion. Regina said she is coming to the SHINDIG, next month! We're going to make plans to have dinner in the coming week and catch up on everything. Another she Regina has kept all these years is her wonderful SMILE!! Wow! It was so wonderful to see her, again, and she looks forward to seeing everyone at the SHINDIG! This party is really shaping up to be a great one!! Just a reminder to everyone that the SHINDIG is for John Jay classmates 1969-79, but especially 1969-1975!! It will be held on Saturday, July 14 at the Old San Francisco Steakhouse, from 6:00 pm to 1:30 am. for a dinner, dance and party/reunion! $45 single/$80 couple. Two menu choices: #1: Sirloin Steak or #2: Chicken & Shrimp. Be sure to indicate for menu choices when you send your check payable to: JOHN JAY SHINDIG in care of Danny Padron, 14010 Syracuse, San Antonio, TX 78249. THE DEADLINE IS JUNE 30, 2001. Please don't delay. Send in your reservations, today! I have calls to many of the TEACHERS, too- Mr. & Mrs. Vakey, Mrs. Valentine, Mr. Guerra, Mr. Chesshir, Mr. McGuire and others that we hope will attend!

Before I go, I gotta' send out belated birthday wishes to my very first John Jay girlfriend, KATHY KEISOR ('72), way up in Anchorage, Alaska. Kathy's birthday was on May 29th, and it sneaked by me this year. I always like to send her a card or an e-mail birthday wish. So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KATHY! Okey dokey, time for me to go. Love is all around, Dennis. (6/2/01)

MAY 2001
JUDY CHASTAIN ('70) Georgia [E] was one of those people who I was able to contact thru "classmates.com" She sent me this e-mail... "Hi Dennis! I was absolutely thrilled to find your site! I graduated from John Jay in 1970, I live in Georgia now, and haven't been back to Texas in years. But I still think of San Antonio as home. I have thought of high school and my old friends so often over the years. It's great to finally be able to see what everyone is up to. Your site brings back so many memories. If you would, please add me to your e-mail list. In school I was Judy Chastain. My married name is DeFoor now. My e-mail address is jd4@alltel.net Again, thanks for the great site!" --- It's great to hear from you, Judy and I hope you'll consider joining us at the party in July! (5/27/01)

CINDY URBACH ('72) Pueblo, Colorado [E] sent me an e-mail... "Dennis just wanted to say that I will be with all of you inspirit but wont be able to attend. I will be renovating my house and regrouping before I return back to teaching middle school art here in wonderful Pueblo Colorado. Please send my regards to everyone and if anyone again know how to reach Debbie Smith, Flora Hernandez, or Ken Crowl send them my way. Also look in the 2002 Guinness World Book of records for the Largest Mural in the World for my project the Pueblo Levee Mural Project of which I have been coordinating for the past 10 years with artists and students from all over the world. love and peace to all." ---Cindy, it's good to hear rom you and we will miss you! Please come to San Antonio sometime soon and visit me! (5/20/01)

MARIE BAXTER ('71) San Antonio, Texas [E] ran into a 1971 classamte that we haven't heard from in a while. She writes in her e-mail..."Dear Dennis, I will be there at the SHINDIG. The check is in the mail. I look forward to seeing everyone. I just saw KIM WYATT ('71) at a function my company was hosting. I just amazes me that people still recognize us, not that I am getting any older and must still look the same." --- Of course, we all look the same after 30 years! That's the gift of being a MUSTANG! (5/20/01)

LYDIA "TOY" KELLY ('71) Minneapolis, Minnesota [E] is making plans to attend the July SHINDIG. She writes..."HI, Dennis. I want to come. I've been checking airline flights..... I may just ride my motorcycle down there. Airplanes are expensive right now and so is gasoline at $1.85 a gallion, up here. We have had the longest winter in the history of mankind and if I don't get to feel some warm Texas sun soon..I may explode! Don't count me out!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I made it 5 yrs ago...I plan on this year, too." --- Toy, I love hearing from you and I hope you make it. By the way. sorry that the San Antonio SPURS whipped the ass of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the playoffs, but, hey, that's life!! YEEE HAAA!! By the way, how did you ever get the nickname, "Toy" ? Just wondering. (5/14/01)

KATHI BROWN ('70) Corpus Christi, Texas [E] is planning to attend the SHINDIG if the Navy doesn't interfere. She writes..."Hey Dennis, Tom and I really want to attend, but work (United States Navy) may pull me away to Millington, Tennessee during that timeframe. I will know something before the 30th of June whether or not, so, I will keep you informed. Thanks for all the updates!" ---Hmmmm, anyone got any pull with the Navy Department to make sure she isn't TDY in July?? Just wondering... (5/14/01)

RAMIRO ('73) & HELEN (RODRIGUEZ) ROCHA ('74) Bellevue, Nebraska [E] sent me an e-mail, today. Though I don't know them, they are MUSTANGS! They write... "Dear Dennis: Greetings from two John Jay grads: Ramiro Rocha Class of 1973 and Helen Rodriguez Class of 1974. Sorry that there is no web site for our classes, so, pull out those year books and look us up. Please help us in locating some of our friends: Julio Hernandez ('73); Jeri Loggins-Hernandez ('74); Sylvia Luna ('74); Betty Frazier ('74); Arthur Pulido ('74); how about some of the Dillard boys from 1973 and 1974? Dennis, you have done an outstanding job on the web pages hope everyone is grateful that you have kept the memories alive. We will be SA for a family wedding over the July 4 holiday, if there are any plans for a social let us know. We are traveling from Omaha Nebraska. Anyway thanks for the MEMORIES!!!!!!!!!! Ramiro and Helen Rocha 12910 South 29 Place, Bellevue, NE 68123 and if anyone wants to give us a jingle here is our number: (402) 932-1697." --- Thanks for the info, Ram. If anyone can help them locate the people they are looking for, please contact them. (5/14/01)

VALERIE HARDISON ('71) San Antonio, Texas [E] writes... "Hi, Dennis, I wanted to share some good news from our family. Heaven knows I need it with all that has been going on. Our daughter found out on the 20th of April that she has been accepted to the University of Florida in Gainesville for a four year degree in pharmacy. She got the news, the day before her husband got out of the navy after over 7 years of service, so, it came at a great time. Well, guess we have to learn the "gator" cheer now!" ---Thanks for checking in with us Val, and best of luck to your daughter. (5/14/01)

APRIL 2001
ME... here it is the day before Easter Sunday and I am laid up in bed with a cold/allergies/flu whatever. I sent an e-mail to everyone, last night, bringing them up to date on stuff and mentioning that I was under the weather. My thanks to the dozens of people who have sent me "Get Well" e-mail cards and messages. I had also mentioned that I have a dentist appointment with DR. BART ULMER, on Monday. He has been my dentist for 34 years. Remember him? His office was right next door to HAROLD'S PIZZA. So, anyway, as you read some of these items, you will see that some people refer to my e-mail comments. Right now, and am running between my computer room, where I am writing this, to the back patio were I am grilling some bratwurst. God, I love that stuff! Well, I thought I would take a moment to go through my e-mail and post some messages here...

BARBARA FRIEDMAN ('71) ? [E] heard from ROCKY PFEFFER ('71) and sent me his e-mail address. So, we welcome Rocky to the gang! Someone drop him a line at: rpfeffer98@yahoo.com (4/28/01)

DAVID WILLIS ('73) San Antonio, Texas [E] somehow tracked down this web site and sent an e-mail..."Dear Dennis, Hi, just a note to let you know I'm alive and kicking. You can add me to the 1973 class list. I think you probably knew my older brother WILLIAM "BILLY" WILLIS ('71) He died in a drowning accident in January of 1998. I have been working for Warm Springs Rehab Hospital (Director of Materials Management) for the past 13 years. I have been Married for 12 years to a lovely woman (Sylvia) and have a 9 year old son named Matthew.." ---Good to hear from you, David and I hope you'll join us for the party in July. (4/28/01)

WILLIAM "WILLY" LOWE ('71) Dallas, Texas [E] and his lovely wife, Mary have sent me a check in order that I can mail the contract and pay for the DJ at our July SHINDIG. Now, that's one less worry and detail, at this point. On behalf of everyone attending the party in July, I want to thank Willy and Mary for their generosity and for always being there for me and US, whenever we need help. You will never find two people as wonderful and caring as they! (4/25/01)

LINDA DUPRIEST ('71) San Antonio, Texas [E] has a new e-mail address: Lindagail53@aol.com (4/25/01)

LINDA SCHNEIDER ('71) Austria [E] sent me an e-mail from her home in Austria... "Hey Dennis ! What is the magazine Renita is publishing in, besides the name "Soldier" - military? Where in Germany is George Hunter? Lots of questions. Hope all is well for you. Just got back from a trip to Holland - the tulips are in bloom and the "Bitters" from Zaansche Molen is hmmmm good! Thanks for the updates! TschuB, Linda." ---Hey, my little Fraulein! Waacha' doing? Hmmm, don't have the answers to your questions, but both Renita's and George's e-mail addresses are listed on the e-mail links page! Drop them a line! Have' ya' found any Austrian BEATLES stuff for me?? (4/22/01)

ROBERTA DUNAGAN ('72) Windham, Maine [E] was a sophomore and walking the halls of John Jay High School, the last time that I saw her, over 31 years ago. This past Wednesday night, April 18th, my doorbell rang at 9:30 p.m. as I was headed to bed. I quickly put on my pants and yelled towards the door, "I'll be there in a second!" I turned on the porch light and Roberta was standing on my doorstep!!! Her daughter was with her and boy was a surprised! Looking pretty much like a bum, I stood in the dooorway and talked with her for about 20 minutes, I couldn't invite her in, because my house was a mess! (And I mean a MESS! I had even brought in one of the outdoor garbage cans into the house to straighten up the living room!! Hey, I'm a divorced bachelor, what do you expect!!) Anyways, Roberta looks GREAT and just as I remember her! She was in town to care for her mother who was having some health problems. Roberta brought me a Limited Edition "Lone Ranger" Hallmark Christmas ornament! You'll recall the story I ran, here on the web site, about knowing CLAYTON MOORE and having had worked with him back in the 1980's. (I even got to see the Lone Ranger without his mask on!!) Well, Roberta and I had a grand time talking and I just wanted to publicly thank her for taking the time to visit me and bring me that cool Christmas ornament!! She'll be back in town for the party in July, with her sister LYLA DUNAGAN ('71) (4/20/01)

SUSAN WITT ('71) Avondale, Arizona [E] sent me a wonderful e-mail! She has graduated from Flight Attendent Academy and well, I'll let her explain... "Hi Dennis, Well, as promised here is a picture in uniform and wearing my "new wings"! Finally after eight weeks of very intensive training and study graduation has been achieved. I am at once both relieved and looking forward to the challenges of my new career. So if you are ever on an America West flight look around it might just be me checking to be sure you are safely buckled in! Many thanks to all of you on the JJHS chat line who have been so encouraging. I truly apprecaite all the support and kind words. Hopefully, my flight schedule will allow me to attend the reunion in July! I look forward to seeing all of you once again. Love is all around, Susan." ---HUBBA HUBBA!! You look fantastic! Our sincere congratulations on your new career! You can check to see if I'm buckled anytime... in a plane or on the ground!! (4/18/01)

LINDA BEAUCH ('73) San Antonio, Texas [E] writes... "Dear Dennis...I still use Dr. Ulmer as my denist. I am going to be very upset, when he does retire. Well, I broke a bone in my foot a couple of weeks ago and had surgery to put a pin in. Hopefully, I will be back on my feet when school is out. It has been an experience for both me and my students, with me in a wheel chair. I am teaching at a new school in Northside ISD, Carl and Bunny Jean Raba Elementary (out by Sea World). I am planning to attend the reunion with my sister, JACKIE BEAUCH ('74), this July. Thanks for the trivia. It reminds me, I have to make an appointment to see Dr. Ulmer, too. Love ya'!" ---Doc Ulmer Rules!! (4/18/01)

TRACEY SMITH ('80) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me this notice... "Hi, Dennis this is Tracey (Smith)Guidry I just wanted to let you know that I just started a new John Jay Forum page where ALL of us Jay Alumni can keep in touch with each other share some old memories. I do not have alot of e-mails to send this link to or to get the word out about the new forum I only have mostly e-mail addresses for the class of 80 so if you could please let the others know about the site that would be appreciated. Like I said I am just getting it off the ground so there are not many messages posted so, please, post some.... Here is the link: http://forums.delphi.com/JJHSSAT/start/ (4/18/01)

GEORGE HUNTER ('70) Deepinderbunker, Germany [E] is in town for the Easter holiday and gave me a call. Here I am laid up in bed with a severe gold/flue/allergies or whatever the hell it is. George will be in town unitl Wednesday, so, we will try to get together. He lives with his family in Germany and works for a military "think tank" there. (4/14/01) UPDATE: George had a very busy schedule while in town and we never did get the chance to visit with one another in-person or even over the phone. When I tried to reach him, his mom said he was visiting with CLYDE GIBSON ('70), who lives out in Universal City. Sorry that I missed ya', George. We'll definately get together on your next visit. I PROMISE! (4/20/01)

TONY PELLETIER ('71) Houston, Texas [E] sent this note... "Dear Dennis, After 17 years, I am leaving PetroCorp and beginning a new chapter with Cabot Oil & Gas Corporation. Please start using my home e-mail (if you're not already). It is: alamoenergy@kingwoodcable.com Thanks for the update - keep up the great work. I'll provide some details on new corporate life soon. See ya' at the July SHINDIG!" ---Best of luck in your new career. Keep meposted and we'll see you in July! (4/14/01)

CHUCK PRINCE ('71) Panama City Beach, Florida [E] writes... "Dennis, it is a great thrill to go to your website and check out the latest on our classes at John Jay. I have been here all evening writing notes to people I have not spoken to for years because I didn't know how to get up with them. Thank you so much for your website. There are some people I need help finding an e-mail address, QUINTON BILES ('71) & DONNA WHITE ('72), ROGER SAVAGE ('71), DAVID TRIMM ('71), and BILLY POINTER ('72) ? If anyone has them please post. Thanks again, Dennis. GO MUSTANGS!!!!!!! ---Good to hear from you, Chuck! No, I don't have e-mail address on the people you mentioned. If anyone does, please send them to me and Chuck! You can write to Frank Trimm or Brenda Dugger for David's adress but I don't know the others. (4/14/01)

ROSS RAYMOND ('69) Katy, Texas [E] sent in an e-mail... "Dear Dennis, Happy Easter to you too. I have a new email address and it is : RossRaymon@aol.com. Almost got my whole name involved, but losing the "D" was a small thing. Sorry to hear you're under the weather. You need the 20/20 cure. I don't mean Thunderbird 20/20, but, rather 20 year old scotch and a 20 year old babe. I am told that this cure will do nothing for your symptoms, but what the hell, you won't care and might even look forward to sick days. Sorry we will not be in town for the San Franciso steak house get together otherwise I would come to see if I can win something, again. My son, Brandon has had an interesting year living in San Antonio, he has the TV that I won at last year's reunion. We have made a few trips trying to fix the place up. Seems as though each trip costs me a grand or two so I can't afford too many more trips. Last week we put in air conditioning, previous visits were to repaint and put in flooring, then we needed to rip up the yard and land scape, the list goes on and on. Meanwhile my own home is falling down and the wife is asking me why I don't get on top of the situation. Good question. Hope you get well soon, or if you try the "cure" hope you don't get well until you are ready." ---Now, that sounds like my kind of cure, Ross! Who has a 20 year-old friend or daughter that I can borrow for the weekend????!! If your plans change, I hope you'll make it to the SHINDIG in July (4/14/01)

SANDRA ALANIZ ('81) San Antonio, Texas [E] picked up on my e-mail mentioning Dr. Bart Ulmer and she writes... "Dear Dennis, I remember the first time I went to see Dr. Ulmer; my brother had filled my head with horror stories about going to the dentist and so on my visit, I was terrified! He was trying to look in my mouth when I promptly BIT HIS FINGER! He went out and told my mother that 'somebody' had been filling this child's head with horror stories and recommended she take me to a pedodontist, a pediatric dentist. His name was Dr. Evans and I still love him to this day! I remember his carousel horse and aquarium in the wall and also the huge tree mural painted on the wall with a door-bell in the knot hole and a ceramic squirrel poised to look like it was climbing up the tree. All the exam rooms were painted like the inside of circus tents and it fit in, perfectly, with the ruse that the nitrous oxide mask he was putting on my face was a clown nose! What a wonderful man! Who can say they have such happy memories about a DENTIST! And it was all thanks to Dr. Ulmer and my terrible, mean, teasing older brother! See ya!" (4/14/01)

MARY EASLEY ('72) [E] dropped me a line... "Hi Dennis, I'm sorry to hear that you've been under the weather. When I was teaching, I spent most of my vacations during the school year and the first part of June being sick. The doctor said it was because I would push myself so hard and when I stopped, my body caught up with me. While working in retail, I was sick after major holidays due to the stress of each holiday. I am now looking for job in teaching again. My main problem is that even though I know several computer programs and can teach them, I have no formal training for certification purposes. I will need to check with TEC to see if I have fallen under a Grandfather Clause. I not only did student teaching at John Jay but was among the first Student Teachers in the Business Department at Jay. I did not realize I shared the joy with such elite company. Keep the faith" --Cool info, Mary! (4/14/01)

MATT DELANEY ('70) Santa Barbara, California [E] is in town according to his e-mail to me. Guess I'll be hearing from him soon. (4/14/01) UPDATE: Matt stopped by my house on Sunday 4/22/01 on his way to the airport to fly back to California. His sister, MOLLY DELANEY ('71) and brother, JOHN DELANEY (7?) were also in town. (4/22/01)

JILL TEMPLE ('72) New Braunfels, Texas [E] sent me an e-mail... "Dear Dennis, MARGARET JENSEN ('72) and I are planning to attend. Can you hold a spot for the two of us? It's about time to send another installment for the upkeep of the web site. I am working on that, too! Love ya!" ---Thanks for the note, Jill and I can't wait to see ya' again. About a month agao, Jill called me and she and Margaret were running around town, but I was already in bed. I missed a chance to see them. Just my luck! (4/14/01)

SANDRA GARCIA ('71) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me an e-mail... "Hi Dennis. So sorry to hear you're down. Hope you'll feel better soon. Going to the dentist should help a lot! Did you know that the Steak & Ale (at Loop 410 and vance Jackson/Cherryridge) is closing? It's so sad. They've been around for 34 years. The mercenary landlord Miles Wilson wanted to raise the rent so high that after a 20 yr lease, S&A could not see the feasability in paying it, so they are closing the doors this Monday night. I bet lots of mustangs have special memories there. Hope you can enjoy some of the weekend. God bless you." --Margo, it's good to hear from you and it is a shame about Steak & Ale. I remember going there with a few of my dates to impress them, as well as going to Stuart Anderson's Steakhouse, right next door. That shut down about 15 years ago. They finally cleard the land were BURKE'S BAR-B-Q used to be and have started building something else there. It looks as if it will be either a small motel. We'll see. The times still continue to change. (4/14/00)

TAMRA GASS ('77) Seguin, Texas [E] "Dear Dennis, Thanks for keeping me in the link and in the loop of information. I am the reunion cordinator for "Class of 1977" and plans are under way for our upcoming reunion. We are all looking forward to seeing everyone. I will be moving to Arizona in June after my daughter graduates on May 26 from Seguin High School. My husband was transfered there in December and we have been giving a lot of business to Southwest Airlines (thank God for frequent flyer miles) I am looking forward to the move, but not the heat. I am sorry to say I will not be here for the SHINDIG in July. I know it will be a blast and look forward to seening photo's on the web site. Well, hope you have a great Easter." --Best of luck in Arizona, Tamra... we have a few classmates there already: LEONARD SAAVEDRA ('70) in Mesa, CHARLIE FREEMAN ('70) DAVID WINSTANLEY ('70) and DEBBIE SULLIVAN ('70) in Gilbert, and one of the BIRD BROTHERS! We'll miss ya' at the SHINDIG. (4/14/01)

MARCH 2001
WELL, THE WORK ON THE JULY 14TH PARTY HAS STARTED! ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14TH, I MAILED OVER 250+ NEWSLETTERS TO CLASSMATES WHO ARE NOT ON MY E-MAIL LISTS. THAT WILL BE THE ONLY NEWSLETTER GOING OUT. ALL OTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE PARTY WILL ONLY BE POSTED BY E-MAIL OR ON THE WEB SITE. MY SPECIAL THANKS TO SUSAN WITT ('71) AND BRENDA STEFFENS ('71) FOR HELPING TO COVER THE POSTAGE!!

WE WILL BE HAVING AN UNOFFICIAL FRIDAY THE 13TH PIZZA PARTY AT PIZZA HUT ON FRIDAY, JULY 13TH AT 7:00 PM, THE NIGHT BEFORE THE PARTY AT THE STEAKHOUSE. I WILL BE RESERVING THE "MUSTANG ROOM" AT PIZZA HUT. NOTHING SPECIAL WILL BE GOING ON, JUST A CHANCE FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO GOOF OFF AND HAVE SOME FUN CAN DO SO. EXPECT TO PAY $10 PER PERSON TO PAY FOR YOUR PIZZA, SALAD, AND SODAS. IF YOU DRINK BEER YOU PAY ON YOUR OWN. DON'T SWEAT IT, IF YOU CAN'T MAKE IT. I'LL BE THERE. HOPE TO SEE YOU.

KAY COMPTON ('71) Mequite, Texas [E] became a GUY on Friday, March 30, 2001. No, it's not what you all think! She did not have a sex change operation. Kay became a member of "THE GUYS", the group I started 14 years ago. You've all heard me talk of this before. Every month for the past 14 years, on the last Friday of the month, a bunch of us John Jay grads have been meeting in the "Mustang Room" at Pizza Hut to re-live the 'good old days." To be eligible to become a "GUY" you must attend at least three (3) monthly meetings in a row and be from the graduatin classes 1969-1979. You must be sponsore by a current member of "THE GUYS", too. Kay lives up near Dallas and she has flown down here for three months in a row to attend the meeting. After ungoing the initiation ritual, she became an official GUY. Don't worry Kay, the wounds will heal quickly!! Anyone wishing to apply for membership in "THE GUYS" should make plans to attend the next meeting on Friday, April 27th, at 7:30 p.m. at the Pizza Hut at Southwest Loop 410 and marbach Road. Be there, or be square! (4/1/01)

MARK NORMAN ('71) Louisville, Kentucky [E] sent me an e-mail about a week ago asking me if I needed any donations to keep the ball rolling on our upcoming SHINDIG 2001 party in July. I told him, YES, we can always use more donations to buy stamps, pay for phone calls in tracking people down, buying paper for newsletters, and putting down deposits for party services. But I also told Mark that he had already done his part LAST YEAR for the reunion and that he didn't need to send any money in. Well, Mark DID send some money in and I want to thank him for doing so. His generous heart follows those of a few other choice friends and fellow John Jay grads who help us out without asking. Thanks for the check, Mark! You are a true blue Mustang, for sure! (4/1/01)

LEE MRHA ('71) Garland, Texas [E] sent me an e-mail, yesterday. The name rings a bell, but I can't find a photo of him. It's been 30+ years since we've heard from him. He even joined us in the Wednesday night chat. Here's his e-mail to me... "Dear Dennis, Eileen Wellnicki sent me an e-mail, she found me on a military brats website. I have often wondered what happened to all the folks who graduated from good old John Jay High School. I have been to your website. Very impressive. Love the yearbook pictures. Wow, did we look young back then or what. My 18 year old son commented "gee dad, you used to be good looking, what happened?" to which I replied "I got married and had you ugly kids". He laughed at that. He really has a great sense of humor! Take care and sometime I'll give you a condensed version of my life. All in all life has been very good to me. Best regards, Lee." ---After three decades it's good to hear from you, Lee. Bring me up-to-date on your life and let me know where you live. Anyone wanting to write to Lee, his e-mail address is: lamrha@home.com (3/29/01)

LINDA SCHNEIDER ('71) Austria [E] sent me an e-mail, today, all the way from here home in AUSTRIA... "Dear Dennis -I just took a look at your web site, and have to tell you, you have done, are doing, a great job! We turned the clocks back here (in Europe) for Daylight Savings Time this weekend... a week earlier? than in the U.S. So, this morning at 0500, I watched Bob Dylan "live" (from Australia) on the Academy Awards... But no, we aren't really that much older, are we????? While spring is in the air, it is a dreary looking, cloudy day today! Netherlands has had another case of Hoof and Mouth (plans to spend 3 days there and in Belgium had to be put on hold, but for other reasons). Banned spinal cord tissue (BSE concern) has been found in a shipment of beef from Italy; previously found in that from Germany, Spain and Netherlands - some McDonald's suppliers; but the wine tastings at the Burgerspital and the Residenz here in Wurzburg are grand; you just stay away from meat and tap water! I hope this finds you well. I will not be coming over for the San Francisco Steak House get together, the trip to DC last August was enough for a bit... but I am sure you will have a great time- tell everyone hello. I received this the other day, (Class of 2004) and if you haven't seen it, I thought you would enjoy it... A big hug - Linda and thanks." ---Linda, it's is great to hear from you!! Find me some Beatles stuff in Austria and a coffee mug or two! Come see me on your next trip to Texas! (3/26/01)

MICHAEL WILLIAMS ('70) Port Orchard, Washington [E] has been gone for 30 years and as fate would have it, he stumbled upon my web site! I don't know where Mike lives, but he sent this e-mail... "Dennis, I was standing around talking with some co-workers, and one of them said, he was going to his high school reunion this year, and that he found the website by accident. I thought about it for a while and decided I to give it a try. I typed 'John Jay High School' in the search engine and found a lot of stuff. I looked through a few that had San Antonio by them. I was starting to get discouraged when I found the 2001 reunion site. Well, I was estatic! This is great! Dennis, I am overwhelmed!! About me: I spent 16 1/2 years in the Army. Got out on a medical discharge. I live in Washington State, in a little town called Port Orchard. A few miles SE of Seattle. I am a Personnel Security Manager for the Navy (civil service), at the Puget Sound Naval Ship Yard. Been doing this for 13 years. My second wife and I have been married for 24years. I have three sons and 4 grandsons. (Making sure the family name goes on), haha Thank you for welcoming me back, and adding me to the web site, I hope some will write. Did I read that this is your last year for keeping the "site" up?I went through the yearbooks photos you have posted. I saw people and names that I have not seen nor heard from in 30+ years. I played the "I recognize him/her game". My heart fell to my feet and I started crying. I think its great that you are keeping the site going. Thank You. Something about me: I quit school, joined the Army and have been gone since 1969. I would have graduated with the "Class of 1970". I doubt that anyone remembers me, but thats ok, I remember ya'll. I won't make the reunion this year, but would you let everyone know I said, Hey! I would like to get in touch with them, if they want to. My e-mail is: michael_d_williams@puget.fisc.navy.mil Thanks, Dennis" --- Hey, Mike welcome back! It's good to have you with us. We all live by the motto: "Once a Mustang, Always a Mustang!" So, have no worries, you ARE a member of the "Class of '70", my friend. Sorry that you can't make the party in July, but if youe plans change, you're more than welcome! If anyone remembers Mike or even if you don't and just want to say HELLO to him, please do so! As for shutting down this web site after next year, well, it's something I am considering. I'll keep you and everyone posted! (3/23/01)

FEBRUARY 2001
SHIRLEY FERGUSON ('71) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me this e-mail... "Hi, Dennis, Thanks for keeping us up-to-date on all lastest John Jay Alumni news. My husband, RAY FERGUSON ('70) and I (Shirley Harden, '71), missed the last reunion in July 2000, but are hoping to make this year's shindig! I work here in San Antonio at the Northside District Office on Evers Road. in the Partnerships Department and get to see a lot of Jay grads and faculty members. I am also interested in contacting Jay graduates who once lived in England (Chicksands AFB) in the late 60's & early 70's. We are trying to contact everyone (very small group) in hopes that we could plan a reunion. I know BARRY GILLESPIE ('71) is interested in this project also. People can contact me at: Shirley_Ferguson@nisd.net if they're interested in being found! Also, I don't know if you want to put this on the web site, but I thought I'd let you know that discount Fiesta Texas tickets are available thru my office for $17.99 for a 1-day ticket, $54.99 for an individual pass, & $187.96 for a Family 4-Pack. The Northside Education Foundation makes a couple of dollars on each one sold. It's not a scam--just a great deal--we've been doing it for about 5 years! Anyone can purchase the tickets--just call my office (210) 706-8599. Thanks again, Dennis, for all you do to keep us connected." ---Shirley, it's good to hear from you. Be sure to tell Ray, hello for me. We lived in England from 1960-63. We were there when the Beatles made the scene. In fact, we watched them on the BBC years before America heard of them! We were stationed at Burderop AFB, a hospital base and then transfered to South Rislip. We went to school at Fairford AFB which is now a Royal Air Force Base. By the way, Shirley, be sure to tell Bonnie Ellison that I voted FOR the recent bond issue! (2/28/01)

LILA FOSTER ('74) Dallas, Texas [E] and I haven't talked to one another since her sister, RENITA FOSTER ('71) and I were going steady back in the early '70s. Today, I received a wonderful letter in the mail! It reads... "Hi, Dennis! I have wanted to send you a donation ever since I started getting your fun newsletter mailings about your multi-class class reunion, last year and I apologize for being so lazy. One thing that I have learned from my 44 years on this earth is that it's never too late to say thanks!!! You did a really great job on the reunion according to Renita and my other sister, LYNDA FOSTER, who both attended. I wasn't able to attend. I really enjoyed all the newsletters you sent and I circulated them around to other John Jay classmates here in the Dallas area. I remember you very well, when I was just a Freshman at Jay!! I think I saw your brother Bobby at the '74/'75 reunion back in October 1999. That was a lot of fun and I hooked up with some old friends. I married a fellow 1974 J.J. graduate- DAVID OEFINGER. You may remember his older brother, PAUL OEFINGER ('71). I have a wonderful life, here in Dallas. We have a 9-year old daughter, Tara and I am actively involved in Girl Scouts with her. Seems, I am trying to do in my 40's, all the things I always wanted to do, but never was able to. We miss San Antonio and probablt retire there someday. I am jealous that you still live there! Please keep my address and phone number and if you ever come to Dallas, we would love for you to stay with us. Thanks, again, for all you've done." ---Wow, it's great to hear from you, Lila. I remember all the fun you were when I was always hanging around your house when Renita and I were going together. It was great to see her and Lynda at the reunion last year. Thank you for your kind words and for your generous donation. It comes just in time to help cover the expenses of the newsletter that I will be sending out next month (March) about the upcoming multi-class party in July 2001. I hope you can make plans to come on down and party with us! I'll save ya' a dance! I will take you up on that offer to stay with you and David if I ever get up to the "BIG D". Take care and be sure to stay in touch! (2/26/01)

JAYNE LEFEVER ('72) San Antonio Texas [E] is another "youngster" that enjoy my web site and sent me the following e-mail... "Dear Dennis, Hi - I'd been hearing about your site for some time, but could never seem to find it until today. It's very nice. I'd love to be listed in the e-mail section at: gs_catbert@yahoo.com Thanks and thanks for doing such a great job on the site and trying to keep everyone linked." --- You're welcome, you're welcome, Jayne! Good to have you back among us.I have added you to the e-mail link page. Make plans to join us in July! (2/16/01)

SANDRA ALANIZ ('81) Idaho (?) [E] has sent me an e-mail. "Dennis, I love visiting your site! My name is Sandra (Alaniz) Sessions. I graduated in '81 and have been visiting every site I can find, about John jay High School, looking for information about our 20 year reunion and happened across yours from everyone on Classmates.com! I'm glad I did! The names are vague, but I do remember lots of you "old timers", :-) because my sister, SYLVIA ALANIZ ('75) and also my brother, JOE ALANIZ, ('74), knew many of you. I joined the military right out of high school and lost touch with many of my friends, but, because of sites like yours I have been able to get in contact with quite a few of them. I especially like the link you have to ol' Capt. Gus. I remember as a first grader at John Glenn Elementary, I and my fellow Brownies, visited the show as a troop. As soon as I saw his picture on your site, the memories came rushing back to me as forceful as the familiar flash floods San Antonio is known for! Thank you for that little bit of happiness...! I will continue to check in as often as I can and again, Thank you! --- Well, you are very welcome, Sandra. I am assuming by the additional e-mail address you sent to me, that you are in Idaho. Is that correct? I am sorry that I don't list e-mail addresses for your classmates, but anyone that wants to get in touch with you can click this link --> cookiemoon2001@yahoo.com Be sure to stay in touch and have your brother and sister send me their e-mail addresses, if they have one! Welcome back to the Mighty Mustangs! (2/16/01)

JUDI BARGER ('72) Fort Walton Beach, Florida [E] dropped me a line by e-mail to let me know that her sister had told of of my web site and she loves it! Here's what she had to say... "Hey Dennis how are you? I just found this web site from my sister who is JERI BARGER ('71) . She recently visited San Antonio where our Mom still lives and she found out about this site. This is a great idea. My name is Judy Barger Waites. My graduating year is 72. My e-mail address is JudiW827@aol.com. I would love to hear from anyone who might still remember me. I haven't lived in San Antonio in a long time. I now live in Fort Walton Beach Florida. I married right before my junior year to a guy named Billy Waites. He was in the Army and went to Viet Nam right after we were married.I continued to attend Jay during my junior year and started my senior year there.After Billy returned from Viet Nam we moved from San Antonio and I have lived in several places since then. Billy and I are no longer together. We haven't been for almost nine years. I live in Florida now and my two sons and one grandson are here.Please list my e-mail address as I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. Thanks again." ---Judi, Judi, Judi (in my best cary Grant impression) it's great to hear from you after 30 years! Welcome back to the Mustangs and I hope you'll make plans to join us for the July party! It would be great so see ya'. OK, folks, flood her with e-mail!! (2/15/00)

JANUARY 2001
DENNIS DUPRIEST--- HAPPY NEW YEAR, Y'ALL!
Well, you're probably wondering where all the "Classmate News" went. Every six months, I "archive" the articles. So, if you want to see what's happened over the past six months or for the past four years, go back to the index page of this site, scroll down to the ARCHIVES and go to it!

TONY SORIA ('70) Chatsworth, California [E] sent me an e-mail that just made my day! ... "Thanks, again, Dennis for always thinking of us. All these years you've been keeping our "Class of 1970" together and it's poured over into all of John Jay High's other graduating members . In the beginning, I thought that you were just part of the foundation, along with the others that initially got this started way back when, after graduation. As you know, foundations, when exposed, can wear , crack and weather when exposed to the environment . But in our case, You were the morter that kept all us bricks together, maybe not in contact with each other, but always in contact with you . That's what's kept our John Jay family together and far from eroding and crumbling . And for that Dennis .......I thank you and love you." ---Thanks, Tony. It's not often that I am at a loss for words, but I am speechless after that. (1/28/01)

NATHAN WILLIS ('70) San Antonio, Texas [E] is a grandfather, again. It's a girl, Kaitlyn Leanne, 8 lbs 2 oz, 22.5 inches. Mother and baby doing fine. Born 12:18 p.m. pn January 26, 2001, to his son, Nathan Lee, and his wife, Cheri, residing in Virginia. (1/27/00)

CINDY URBACH ('72) Pueblo, Colorado [E] dropped me an e-mail asking for help locating some classmates... "Dear Dennis, I am looking to locate a few people FLORA HERNANDEZ, VICKI CAFFEY ('72), DEBBIE SMITH ('72), and KENNY CROWL ('70). If there is anyone that can refer my e-mail to them that would be awesome. Thanks Cindy" ---If anyone can help Cindy locate these folks, please e-mail her at: ramu@uscolo.edu By the way, did y'all know that Cindy coordinates the Largest Mural in the World and she's been in the Guinness World Book of Records since 1995! Cool! (1/23/01)

GLENN BURCHARD ('69) Austin, Texas [E] mailed in the first financial contribution to this web site, of the 2001 New Year. Glenn and his wife, Melba, sent in a most generous check and on behalf of everyone who enjoys my web site, I send them my sincere and heartfelt thanks. He sent a long a note... "Dear Dennis, Here's a few bucks to help with the web site. You continue to do a superb job at keeping it all going! I see you've recently added a bunch of new e-mail addresses for folks. It just keeps growing and growing. There are a bunch of others that I'd like to see-- sooner or later, we'll get them. I'll be glad to help with this year's get together. Take care of yourself and keep in touch!" ---Thanks, Glenn. It's always good to hear from you and thanks for volunteering to help with our next party. It's still up in the air, but we'll see what happens! (1/20/01)

KATHY LUND ('72) Dallas, Texas [E] found this web site and sent me an e-mail... "Hi Dennis! I don't think we knew each other in school. I graduated in the "Class of '72." I started off the year (and all the previous ones) as Kathy Lund, but by graduation I was Kathy Lund Drutar. I was married to Kirk Drutar, who BTW still lives in San Antonio. I found your web site via the Classmates.com site. I've enjoyed scrolling through the archives and so many names and people come back to life! I moved away from San Antonio (where I was born and raised) to Dallas in 1977 and have been here ever since. My son, Michael Drutar is now 28 years old, married and lives about 10 miles from here. I still have a hard time believing I have a child who is that old. Hell, I have a hard time believing I'm as old as I am. I still think and feel like I'm young. But Lord knows, the miles are there. I attended the "Class of '72" 10-year and 20-year reunions, which were great fun. I saw so many old friends. Most have to do a double take, but then they see it's me! I personally don't think I've changed in my looks, so much, but I guess others do. I saw where Mike Brown and Maureen Deatt reunited at the 20 year reunion! After going over your web site there are some folks I want to e-mail! That should be much fun! I recently was reunited with Rosa Cabrerra and Kent Sundberg, there's a lot of history there. I know of several people from '72 and '73 who live here in the Dallas area and I will forward your web site to them and let them enjoy as much as I have! Please add me to your mailing list and I would love information about the 10 class year combined reunion. The class of '72 should be planning a 30 year reunion, but since I live so far away I can't really be involved. Anyway the combined reunion really sounds like it would be much more fun, since most of us knew people from more than one class. Hope to hear from you soon and Keep the Faith Man!! Peace, Love, Dove, Groovy" --- It's great to hear from you, Kathy. Things are still up in the air about another multi-class reunion. I'm not sure I am up to it anymore! Remember, I'm older than you!! LOL I have added you to my mailing list and it's good to have you with us. (1/17/01)

ROBERT DUPRIEST ('75) Spring Branch, Texas [E] had me over to his home for Christmas Eve, along with my brother Tom & his family, my sister, Linda & her family, and my Mom & Dad. I had a great time with my brother, as I only get to see him and the family about twice a year. He is a Vice President for Cyberlog International, a computer telephony integrator. Anyway, I have a photo of Bob and his family that I'll post here. I'm really proud of my youngest brother, he's got a great career and great family. (1/5/01)

KARIN WALTERS ('69) Crosby, Texas [E] has a knack for writing to me and making me laugh and her latest e-mail did just that! ... Happy New Year Dennis! I must say my New Year's celebration left a lot to be desired this past week. The weather was so "crappy" here that it only added to the danger of getting out on the road with all the crazies that seem to take to the streets for celebration. I spent the evening sitting under an electric blanket, watching ballroom dancing competition on PBS, drinking way too sweet champagne, falling asleep before the ball dropped in NY........OH MY GOSH....what is wrong with this picture. Is this a sign of aging? I now cherish my sleep and relish waking up on New Year's Day well rested???????!!!!!!!!???? Are the party girl days passing me by..........OH NO! I hope yours was fun. I'm going to do my best to attend the January 26 get together at Pizza Hut for the first planning session for this summer's party. I will be visiting my family during that time and hopefully will be able to get away for a couple of hours. I'm not sure what I can do to help, living so far away, yet I will try to do so the best I can. Write when you get a moment........ I wish you good health." ---I can't wait to see ya', again, Karin!! (1/5/01)

DOREEN DUGGAN ('71) Ashford, Alabama [E] found my web site and sent in an e-mail... "Hi Dennis. Hi! I was just fooling around on the internet when I ran up on your website. Just a short note to let my classmates know that I am still around. I'm a little far away, but not so far. Living in LA (Lower Alabama), 2144 Gene Terry Road, Ashford, Alabama. My married last name Anderson. I am a RN and work at a large hospital that serves a tri-state area." ---Well, it's good to hear from you and welcome back to this corral of Mustangs! (1/5/00)

JANIS REYNOLDS ('69) Buda, Texas [E] sent me, and a lot of classmates, an e-mail asking the whereabouts of fellow classmate, DAVID "DUFFY' LAZARUS ('69). It was my unfortunate duty to let her know that I had been with Duffy a week before he died about three or four years ago. Here's her most recent e-mail to me... "Dear Dennis, I'm very sad to hear the news (which I guess isn't really news anymore except to those of us who didn't know) about Duffy. He was a good friend to me in junior high and high school. I last saw him sometime in the late 70s, and he had already been through some difficult times. He and BILL GENTRY ('69) remained good friends for several years after high school. I recently heard that Bill also had died last year. You asked me for some background info on me, well... I graduated from Jay in 1969. I was the Colonel of the Silver Spurs for my junior and senior year. Don't look at those horrible pictures of me though! I live in Buda, Texas , and I work in Austin). I have two children (grown) from my marriage to David Karam (alumnus of Central Catholic HS) and four grandchildren! I have a Master's degree in English Literature and taught for a number of years at UTSA and for the Alamo Community College District before moving to Austin in 1993. I am currently enrolled at SWT, working on a second M.A. in Technical Communications. My goal is to get back into the classroom after about a 7 year hiatus. I have remarried, and my husband works for Williams Marketing here. I am still in touch with my three BEST friends from high school: DEANNA PACK ('69), VANESSA ROBBINS ('69) and DEBBY VAN PELT ('69). My former husband's sister married one of our classmates, PAUL (Wilkinson) BROUSSARD ('69), so he is my (now former) brother-in-law. Small world, huh? I don't ever go to the class chats, but I do check out your site from time to time. Love it that you're the "keeper of the flame." I went to the 10 and 20 year reunions -- I'm hoping to get back to another one. Thanks for all you do to keep us all connected!" --- Janice, it's good to hear from you! Please stay in touch! (1/5/01)