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SPECIAL ARCHIVE NOTE: To save storage space on the web site, the photographs originally featured with these stroies had to be eliminated. Sorry.

DECEMBER 2001
TARYN HOUGH ('72) Oklahoma [E] "Dear Dennis, As always, I love hearing from you and catching up. We had a wonderful holiday and hope yours was the best. My daughter is home for 3 weeks from school in Dallas. We've enjoyed our time with her, although I'm sure she's ready to go back to Dallas. I am now working a little at home and no longer at OU. What a change. I haven't been without a "real" job since I was 16. Give my best to all and I wish you the greatest of years in 2002!" (12/30/01)

JIM NUANES ('71) Fairfax, Virginia [E]Dennis, I wish you the very best in 2002. You've been a friend and because of you and your crew, you have given me the opportunity of making contact with my former classmates and made friends of some that I missed while at Jay. I have had a fantastic life. Others may feel differently, but in my case, I have been blessed with a great family, friends and super opportunities. I wish our Mustang classmates (Past, Present and Future) a life that is full with the same blessings that I have received. May God bless and smile on you. Your friend always." (12/30/01)

JULIE CONSANI ('71) Santa Rosa, California [E] "Dennis, Yes, we did have a Happy Christmas. Stayed at home, my son Justin came for a long 4 day visit. And Santa was very good to all of us. We aren't planning any big event for the New Year. For some reason staying home and enjoying each other and our home seems the most appropriate thing to do. I will be making a huge pot of Crab Chiappino. It is Crab season. Might drive out to Bodega Bay and get some fresh ones right off the boat. I will be sure to give the BIRDS your regards. LOL Ben and I are mulling it around in our minds about making a short trip to see Betty soon. It is only 2 hours away but driving through San Francisco can always be trying...TRAFFIC is always bad unless you go really early in the morning, both ways. So we will see.. I trust you have been have a festive time. You too be safe and take care of yourself and your loved ones Peace and love."

DON HARING ('70) Anchorage, Alaska [E]Most of you will recall that in my Christmas e-mail to everyone, I mentioned how happy I was that my buddy and classmate, DON HARING had sent me a Christmas card. I had lost contact with Don over a year, ago. The last I had heard, he was busy on a project with the Army Corp of Engineers in overseeing the building of a chemical weapons incincerator in Oregon. One day, his e-mail came back to me and I never knew how to get in touch with him. Today, Friday, December 28th, Don shows up on my doorstep! But it gets even better! Don is now in Anchorgae, Alaska, and has been for the past year or so. Anyway, we're sitting in my living room and he is asking for updates on lots and lots of people and classmates. [Don and I went to school together back in Italy]. Then, he asked if I had heard from PAM CHABAK ('70). [Pam and Don went steady back in the old days at John Jay.] I told him that Pam came to the 30-year reunion in July 2000 and that she lived in Austin and she was doing great and looked gorgeous. He asked if I had heard from Pam since then, I said, "Ya' know, it's strange, but I haven't. She always sends me a Christmas card, but I didn't get one from her this year." Well, when it came time for Don to go, I walked outside, took his picture and walked over to the mailbox to check my mail. As we said our goodbyes, I opened up the mailbox and what do I find but a late CHRISTMAS CARD FROM PAM CHABAK!!! Amazing! Don and I just burst out laughing! So, I thank the good Lord for the double surprise, today, of Don's visit and Pam's Christmas card! Don is headed to Houston, tomorrow to see his daughter and his new grand-daughter, then, he'll be back in Anchorage, Alaska by Monday afternoon, and hopes to give KATHY KEISOR ('72) and LINDA HARP ('70) a call. (12/28/01)

SHEILA (O'KANE) CHIN ('74) Plano, Texas [E]is an amazing woman! I got a lovely Christmas card from her, today, along with a most generous donation to keep this website going. In her card she writes, "Merry Christmas, Love and Hugs! Just thought I'd send a pic so you can see what I look like, now. One of these years I will make it to the reunions. I am back in nursing school and have a long way to go, but I'll get there." Well, Sheila has lost over 100 pounds and she is looking great! She has such a spirit and strong will and I know she will reach her goal. I am sure she won't mind my sharing her photo with everyone. She has got such great self-confidence and determination. Gee, I wish I did! I'd love to be able to lose 100 pounds! Great going, Sheila, we are all so proud of you!! And thank you so very, very much for your donation to keep the flame burning bright! (12/28/01)

JAMES BAUM ('70) Floresville, Texas [E]"Hey Dennis, Hope you have a very Merry You certainly deserve it. You bring a lot of joy to all of your old classmates all year long and I am sure the others join me in my feelings. Stay so busy trying to keep us fed have little time left for some of the other often more enjoyable things in life. For what it is worth I brag on you all the time. Very few people are fortunate of enough to have a Dennis DuPriest of their own. But we got you . Thank You Dennis. We all Love You Merry Christmas." (12/24/01)

DEAN & SANDY (WOODS) DUNN ('69/'70) North Richland Hills, Texas [E]"Dennis, Merry Christmas to a guy who has added sunshine, updated us on news we didn't want but needed (sadness in others lives) & mostly kept an incredible amount of people all over the world bonded together. For that we'll always be greatful. Dean has joined the Men's Golf Association and plays in tournaments about once a month. We have been blessed with a second grandson on April 5th. He's named Ryan Jatin. He looks like his brother Austin, but has his mom's eyes. He's the second child of our son, Jay, who finishes up his 18 months of "Chief Resident' in a Boston hospital and then starts his research fellowship in January. Our son, Steve lives in Ft. Worth and works at Bank of America and plays Golf with Dean as often as he can. Thanks & Best Wishes & many Blessings, Dennis, for a Happy Healthy New Year from the Dunn Family.....P.S. Thanks for sharing our e-mail address with Jan Sisson ('70)...we all 3 turn "50" in 2002 & plan to get together in April for the first time in almost 30 years." (12/24/01)

KATHY KEISOR ('72) Anchorage, Alaska [E]"Hi Dennis, What a nice Christmas letter. That's so great that you are back in touch with Don Haring. That's very special. You mentuioned that he is at Ft. Richardson, here in Alaska. Well, that is the army base right here in Anchorage!! How can I get a hold of him? What a kick. We all go way way back, don't we? I love reconnecting with people. I'd like to get in touch with him. Merry Christmas, dear friend. Have a very happy holiday, dear Dennis. I'm always thinking of you. Love IS still all around." (12/24/01) ---The Haring's, Keisor's and DuPriest's were all stationed together at San Vito Di Normandi Air Station, Brindisi, Italy and then here in San Antonio, back in the 60's.

KARIN WALTERS ('69) Crosby, Texas [E] "Dear Dennis, Thank you for the Christmas wish to us all. I wish you a very Merry Christmas spent with family and good friends, good food, and merriment. I hope the next year proves to be the happiest and most prosperous you have ever enjoyed. Most of all, I wish you good health, Dennis. Much love to you Dennis..... Karin xxoo" (12/24/01)

CHARLES "CHUCK" OGIER ('70) Thousand Oaks, California [E]Dennis... Merry Christmas to you and your family.....hope all is well." (12/24/01)

MONNA STEPHENS ('70) Grapevine, Texas [E]"Merry Christmas to you too Dennis. All is well with me and my family and Donna's as well. Donna and her husband will be joining me and my Family in Dallas for the Holidays. Donna and I couldn't imagine not spending it together...and like those Holidays before it, our days and nights are always spent laughing and remembering the "good ole days" at Jay and beyond!. You are in our thoughts often. As a footnote to your comments about the events of 9-11... I Chair a non-profit organization in the DFW Mid-Cities Area called Christmas Providers (an adopt-a-family program). For 18-years our Program has been helping needy families get through the Holidays by providing them with food and gifts for Christmas. Like so many other non-profit organizations this year, our Program experienced lack of participation in funding raising and finding Providers that would unselfishly adopt one of these families due to their own financial instability. Dallas/Ft. Worth received a direct hit from the events that took place on September 11th. Literally thousands of people in our area have lost jobs as a result of the Airline cutbacks and the trickle-down effect that it had on hundreds of other businesses that supported the airline industry. Although Christmas Providers has been able to assist 501 needy families with Christmas this year, it's been a struggle. Please keep these families as well as so many others that also are having an especially difficult time this year in your thoughts and prayers. Here's wishing you and your Family well this coming Year!" (12/24/01)

RICHARD OLSEN ('70) Weston, Massachusetts [E] "Happy holidays, Dennis!" (12/24/01)

JOHN WOLLEN ('70) Texas? [E]"Dennis: Have the Merriest of Christmas and the Happiest of New Years. Best Regards." (12/24/01)

SANDY HICKEY ('72) Houston, Texas [E] "Hey, Dennis, Thanks for the update and happy holidays to you and yours. I am definitely going to make it a point to come to the July function. I haven't been to any yet. Cary Maestas ('69) was here will me for Thanksgiving. We had a blast. I have always stayed close to those Maestas boys, don't ask me why. They are crazy, but we are like family. Also, Bob Humphries ('69) is my family. Although he is my ex brother-in-law, we are friends first and still are. He will be over for Christmas Day. Bob has had a long hard road over the past 25-30 years, which of course was his choice for the most part. However, this past year has been the most incredible change for him. I always knew he had a great heart, and was a wonderful person. Now, a lot of other people are realizing it. He continues to grow, which goes to show, it is never too late. Happy Holidays to you and yours, and keep the emails coming. It gives me a connection that was missing. Love is all around."(12/24/01)

CATHIE BOOTH ('71) Springfield, Louisiana [E]"Thanks for the up date as usual. We went up to New Hope, Pennsylvania to visit my youngest brother Lawrence Booth & surprise my mom. Well, needless to say we are blessed for mom is truly living her life after we buried dad's body back in May. She has even gone dancing (72 yrs young). We had a blast with her, my niece, Haley(Curtis Booth's daughter), Michael and my husband, JC. We saw an off broadway show of "Beauty and the Beast", at at Tavern On The Green, and had a wonderful Thanksgiving. New Yorkers are more friendly than I found them in the past. I think this was a wake up call to show us what really is most important in life. I pray daily for those that crossed over and count my blessings every day if not every hour. I bless you for keeping all of us in touch as we get "younger". Thank you for your dedication and for kepping your heart open. Many blessings to you and your family today and always. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! Love and Peace Love and Light" (12/24/01)

JERI BARGER ('71) [E]"Dear Dennis, I really appreciated your Christmas e-mail. I'm sorry I haven't been in touch with you for a while. There has been so much going on, and it's been hard to keep in touch with anyone. You came to my mind when I heard of George Harrison's death. It is very sad. My favorite Beatle's album has always been the Rubber Soul Album. I remember going to Janine Rodriguez's ('71) house so many years ago, and listening to the album for hours. (I didn't have the album at the time.) Most people liked the Sergeant Pepper album best, but not me. I also remember going to church and hearing, and singing George Harrison's song, "My Sweet Lord". I thought it was so cool that we were singing a Beatle's song in church, a Catholic church at that! It's always been a favorite song of mine. There's nothing really to say about September 11. Our world has been forever changed by the terrorist acts of that day, and I wonder what kind of a world our children and grandchildren will grow up in. We can only pray that nothing like that ever happens again. I hope that you have a great Christmas, and I hope you get to spend it with family. There is nothing more important in the world than family. You are in my thoughts, even if you don't hear from me. God Bless you." (12/24/01)

AUDREY TARTE ('76) [E]"Hey there, Dennis, Thanks as always for your warm words. Kathy is right,"Love is all around us." I hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas. Stay safe." (12/24/01)

MICHAEL (HALE) SALINAS ('75) Louisiana [E] "Hey Dennis, All is well here in Northwest Louisiana. My wife after 22 years of military service recently graduated from Northwest University as a Registered Nurse. My son, who is now 20 (where has the time gone) is at Louisiana Tech studying to become a mechanical engineer. I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. Take care." (12/24/01)

ART ZULAICA ('72) San Antonio, Texas [E]sent me a most interesting e-mail... "Dennis, I know you get inundated with mail, jokes, pictures, spam, etc,etc,etc. These are some thoughts I would like to share with you. I hope you find them worth reading. May this Email find you and yours Happy and Healthy. Take a Minute......Think a Year..Last Christmas we were thinking about all the things we didn't have;this Christmas we are thinking about all the things we do have. Last Christmaswe were placing wreaths on the doors of our homes; this Christmas we are placing wreaths on the graves of our heroes. Last Christmas we were letting our children play with toy guns; this Christmaswe are teaching them that guns are not toys. Last Christmas we were counting our money; this Christmaswe are counting our blessings. Last Christmas we paid lip service to the real meaning of the holidays; this Christmas we are paying homage to it. Last Christmas we were lighting candles to decorate; this Christmas we are lighting candles to commemorate. Last Christmas we were digging deep into our bank accounts to find money to fly home for the holidays; this Christmas we are digging deep into our souls to find courage to do so. Last Christmas we were trying not to let annoying relatives get the best of us; this Christmas we are trying to give the best of ourselves to them. Last Christmas we thought it was enough to celebrate the holidays; this Christmaswe know we must also find ways to consecrate them. Last Christmas we thought a man who could rush down a football field was a hero; this Christmas we know a man who rushes into a burning building is the real one. Last Christmas we were thinking about the madness of the holidays; this Christmas we are thinking about the meaning of them. Last Christmas we were getting on one another's nerves; this Christmas we are getting on our knees. Last Christmas we were giving thanks for gifts from stores; this Christmas we are giving thanks for gifts from God. Last Christmas we were wondering how to give our children all the things that money can buy- the hottest toys the latest fashions, the newest gadgets; this Christmas we are wondering how to give them all the things it can't - sense of security, safety, peace. Last Christmas we were thinking about all the pressure we are under at the office; this Christmas we are thinking about the people that no longer have an office to go to. Last Christmas we were singing carols; this Christmas we are singing anthems. Last Christmas we were thinking how good it would feel to be affluent; this Christmas we are thinking how good it feels to be alive. Last Christmas we thought angels were in heaven; this Christmas we know some are right here on earth. Last Christmas we were contemplating all the changes we wanted to make in the New Year; this Christmas we are contemplating all the changes we will have to make in this new reality. Last Christmas we believed in the power of the pocketbook; this Christmas we believe in the power of prayer. Last Christmas we were sharing, spreading, listening to gossip; this Christmaswe are sharing, spreading, listening to the gospel. Last Christmas we were complaining about how much of our earnings went to pay taxes; this Christmas we comprehend that freedom isn't free. Last Christmas the people we idolized wore football, basketball, and baseball uniforms; this Christmas the people we idolize wear police, firefighter, and military uniforms. Last Christmas "peace on earth" is something we prayed for on Sunday mornings; now, it is something we pray for every day." Dennis, you're right..."Love is all around". Merry Christmas and Happy New Year" (12/22/01)

STEVE MAYS ('70) Great Falls, Virginia [E]sent me his annual family photo Christmas card of his triplets. They are growing like weeds! Steve says he is taking a job with a consulting firm in January 2002, and that could involve him moving to San Diego, California. He also sent in a super generous donation check to keep this web site going into the new year. Thanks, my friend! You have been supporting this effort since the beginning! (12/21/01)

WALLY WIBLE ('70) Austin, Texas had a successful year in his business. He and his wife, Jenny, bought a new home and a Mercedes! Here's their Christmas card to me. Thanks for the card, Wally. (12/21/01

MELANIE (MILLER) DUGOSH ('75) Hondo, Texas [E]sent me a glowing e-mail today... "Dear Sweet Dennis, My good friend and beloved John Jay Home Economics teacher Clarinda Richard's son, Michael, was one of the torch bearers for the Olympic Flame as it went through San Antonio, today, (December 11, 2001.) Michael, complete with his proud Mom and Dad (Fred), were featured on KENS-TV5 on the 5:00pm newscast and may be shown again later this evening."--- Melanie, I saw the piece on the news! He seemed to be having the time of his life! (12/11/01)

MICKEY MAHLER ('70) Sandy Utah [E]finally drops me a line after three years... "Dennis you're a BIG stud! Rumor has it that you and Clair Neyland are getting married! I started that rumor to make you look better. Hope you're doing well! Mick"---Holy Cow! Now, THAT"S a rumor I could live with! Great to hear from you Mick. Can't wait till Clair reads this and makes a quick trip to Utah to rip your lungs out! LOL How's that pitching arm? I'm up for a game of whiffle ball when you are, my friend. Thanks for your friendship! You're the best! (12/4/01)

JACQUELINE (BUXTON) LYNCH ('73) Frankfort, Kentucky [E] likes this web site! She writes... "Dennis, I belong to the Class of 1973 of John Jay High School, but would love information on any combined class reunions, that is, if you don't mind hanging out with us younger classes. My maiden name is Jackie Buxton, and you have probably already been contacted by my sister, Kathy Buxton Goguen, who told me about your web-site. She attended our 25th reunion in 1998 (I didn't make it), but she said there are some combined class reunion gatherings coming up. She also said something about a "classmates.com" site but I've had no luck finding it. I enjoyed your web page and the articles about you being an administrator for another high school, Somerset High School. It's funny because my family left San Antonio over 25 years ago to move to Somerset, Ky., and there is a Somerset High School there where the children of my cousins graduated. Small world, huh? Anyway, it was exciting to see John Jay High School of San Antonio on the internet. Thanks for doing your part to provide this!" ---Dear Jackie... good to hear from you. Before I say anything else, let me tell you about COINCIDENCES! Back in 1848, there were nine families from SOMERSET, KENTUCKY that set out west to come to Texas and THEY ARE THE ORIGINAL FAMILIES THAT SETTLED HERE AND NAMED THIS TOWN, SOMERSET, AFTER THEIR OLD HOME IN SOMERSET, KENTUCKY! I did the research back in 1998, when this little town (1554 population) celebrated it's 150th anniversary!! Thanks for the many compliments about my web site. I am glad that you enjoy it. As for combined reunions, well, for the past four years, I have been throwing parties for whoever wants to come. Our next one is in JULY 2002 and is called: SHINDIG II: SON OF SHINDIG! I have no other details as I have not organized anything other than setting the date. Keep posted to my web site for more info. If other classes tell me of their plans for reunions, I usually post it, right here, in the CLASSMATE NEWS section of my site or on the index page. (12/4/01)


BEATLES: GEORGE HARRISON
(February 25, 1948- November 29, 2001)
"ALL THINGS MUST PASS"
Fans and friends throughout the world mourn the death of George Harrison, the Beatles' quiet lead guitarist and spiritual explorer who added both rock 'n' roll flash and a touch of the mystic to the band's timeless magic. "He left this world as he lived in it, conscious of God, fearless of death, and at peace," Harrison's family said in a statement. Harrison died Thursday afternoon at the Los Angeles home of a friend following a lengthy battle with cancer, longtime Harrison friend Gavin De Becker said. He was 58. "He died with one thought in mind - love one another," De Becker said. In New York, hundreds of fans stopped at Strawberry Fields, the section of Central Park dedicated to the memory of Harrison's bandmate John Lennon. "He left this world as he lived in it, conscious of God, fearless of death, and at peace, surrounded by family and friends. He often said, "Everything else can wait but the search for God cannot wait, and love one another,'" his family said in a statement.

Harrison died at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at a friend's Los Angeles home following a battle with cancer, family friend Gavin de Becker said in statement released to The Associated Press.

"I am devastated and very very sad," former bandmate Paul McCartney told the BBC in London. "I remember all the beautiful times we had together and I'd like to remember him like that, because I know he would like to be remembered like that."

Funeral arrangements are not yet known, but de Becker said a private ceremony had already taken place. Harrison had been fighting cancer for years. He was first diagnosed with lung cancer in 1997 and was treated in Switzerland earlier this year for a brain tumor. He underwent experimental radiosurgery at New York's Staten Island University Hospital earlier this month and later moved to UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles for more conventional treatment, but it failed to stop the cancer.

"George has given so much to us in his lifetime and he continues to do so even after his passing with his music, his wit and his wisdom,"Yoko Ono, widow of former bandmate John Lennon, said in a statement. "His life was magical and we felt we had shared a little bit of it by knowing him. Thank you George. It was grand knowing you."

Harrison was widely known as the "Quiet Beatle." Lennon and McCartney wrote and sang lead on most of the songs. Ringo Starr clowned his way through the movies. Harrison, the youngest member of the group, was content to play lead guitar. The Mop Top with a dry sense of humor, he stepped to the fore in the Beatles' later years, writing such classics as "Something" and "Here Comes the Sun."

While he was the most media-shy of the Fab Four, in many ways, he was the most influential. At a time before Westerners were flocking to yoga classes, Harrison became one of the first proponents of Eastern culture, studying meditation and Indian music. On the Beatles classic "Norwegian Wood," Harrison introduced the Indian sitar to Western ears. Later, Harrison brought awareness to the Third World through The Concert for Bangladesh — the first large-scale pop music fund-raiser — featuring such giants as Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton. It was the forerunner for such events as "Live Aid."

Like the other Beatles, Harrison started out as a working-class lad in Liverpool, England. He was born on Feb. 25, 1943, the youngest of three sons. His parents ran dance classes for several years, but it was not until Harrison was 14 that he showed any interest in music. When the skiffle group craze hit Britain in the 1950s he learned a few chords on a second-hand guitar he bought from a classmate. Soon afterward he teamed up with Lennon and McCartney and the group played at Liverpool's Casbah club, run by the mother of Pete Best, then the group's drummer. As The Silver Beatles, the group played gigs in Hamburg, Germany, until it was discovered that the 17-year-old Harrison was too young to have a work permit and they had to return home. In 1962, the Beatles signed a recording contract and unceremoniously dumped Best, replacing him with Starr. Within a year, the Fab Four had girls screaming on both sides of the Atlantic, and a new word entered the public lexicon: Beatlemania.

As Harrison later quipped: "I guess if you've got to be in a rock group it might as well be the Beatles."

No other rock group has ever dominated the charts as the Beatles did. On April 4, 1964, the Fab Four had the top five positions on the U.S. Hot 100 and placed another seven elsewhere on the chart. In descending order were "Can't Buy Me Love," "Twist And Shout," "She Loves You," "I Want To Hold Your Hand," and "Please Please Me."

The Beatles' record of 20 No. 1 singles in America still stands.

Even while he was known as the most famous lead guitarist in the world, Harrison needed more time to develop his voice. When the Beatles stopped touring in 1966, Harrison devoted more time to songwriting. On Abbey Road, the group's final album, his song "Something" became his first A-side single. After the Beatles broke up in 1970, he was the first member of the band to score a major recording success, with the album All Things Must Pass, which included the controversial hit single "My Sweet Lord."

'No John, No Beatles' Harrison's career suffered a slump in the mid-1970s. Many critics dismissed his work as preachy and sanctimonious. In 1978, he embarked on a new venture, forming HandMade Films, which went on to produce Monty Python's Life of Brian and Time Bandits.

"George, always called the quiet Beatle, he never stopped talking when I was with him," said Michael Palin of Monty Python's Flying Circus. "He had an enormous number of friends who were terribly loyal to him, and will be very saddened."

In the wake of the fatal shooting of John Lennon in 1980, Harrison recorded the tribute "All Those Years Ago," a No. 1 hit, bolstered with musical contributions from McCartney and Starr, making it a near-Beatles reunion. Still, his subsequent albums, Somewhere in England and Gone Troppo, were largely ignored by record buyers, and he went on a five-year recording hiatus. He resurrected his recording career with the 1987 album Cloud Nine, which produced the hits "Got My Mind Set on You" and "When We Was Fab," a parody of the Beatles. Harrison hit the charts again in 1988 as part of the Traveling Wilburys, a group that featured Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne.

Harrison grew tired of answering questions about the Beatles, especially after Lennon's death. "As far as I'm concerned, there won't be a Beatles reunion so long as John Lennon remains dead," he announced in 1989. Still, the three surviving members of the Fab Four teamed up in 1996 to create a retrospective, The Beatles Anthology, which included three volumes of previously unavailable recordings. The three reunited again in June 1998 for a tribute to Linda McCartney, Paul's wife, who died of breast cancer.

In 2000, the Beatles had a No. 1 hit again, with the release of a greatest-hits album called, simply, 1.

Battling Cancer, Intruders … And the Past... The media-shy Harrison had always been reluctant to share his private life with the public. In 1966, Harrison married British model Patti Boyd, whom he met on the set of the Beatles film A Hard Day's Night. Boyd fell in love with his longtime friend, guitarist Eric Clapton, in 1970. She finally left her husband for Clapton in 1974, but the two musicians managed to remain friends. Harrison even attended the couple's wedding.

Four years later, Harrison married Mexican-born Olivia Arias, who gave birth to his only child, son Dhani.

In later years his reputation as a recluse grew and he spent much of his free time puttering in his garden at his huge mansion — reported to have more than 100 rooms — outside London. After Lennon's death, Harrison spent a fortune improving security at his mansion near Henley-on-Thames, about 25 miles west of London. He also sometimes traveled under an alias. Despite those precautions, an intruder broke into the home on Dec. 30, 1999, and stabbed Harrison. Olivia saved her husband by striking the attacker over the head with a fireplace poker and table lamp. The attacker was found to be insane and confined to a mental hospital.

Harrison recovered from the stabbing, but he soon was engaged in a new battle with cancer. He had first been diagnosed with lung cancer in 1997. In May 2000, he had a cancer-like sore removed from his lungs at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. He blamed the condition on smoking. His publicist said at the time that Harrison had recovered, but earlier this year , Harrison checked into a Swiss clinic for treatment of a brain tumor. He later sought treatment at in New York and Los Angeles.

Despite his frail health, Harrison recorded a single with pianist Jools Holland, former keyboardist for the band Squeeze. Harrison co-wrote the song, "A Horse to Water," with son Dhani for Holland's album, Small World, Big Friends.

CLASSMATES COMMENTS...

"George said it best in his very first solo album- 'All things must pass. All things must pass away." Somehow, I can hear him sending us words of comfort, telling us not to worry and singing to all of us, Here comes the sun, here comes the sun, And I say, it's all right.' God bless George Harrison for the music he gave us, the wisdom he shared, the love he offered, and the best years of our lives with all the fun he was a part of. The Beatles music is the soundtrack of our lives. While my heart gently weeps." -Dennis DuPriest

"Mine does as well, Dennis" -Karin Walters ('69)

"Dear Dennis, Very sad news today. My heart goes out to George's family and friends, and I'll be thinking of you. Take care. Love is all around." -Kathy Keisor ('72)

"Your feelings are shared by many." -Katie Miller ('69)

"Dennis, Amen. He was an original and touched many people. Just like you." -Mark Norman ('71)

"Right on, bro. It's a sad day. 'All Things Must Pass'" -Glenn Hutto ('71)

"Brother Dennis, "My Sweet Lord" is the George Harrison song that comes to my mind as I think back on the joy that I have had through the years listening to him and the "Best Band Ever" and the tremendous influence they have had and still have on the wonderful world of music! I feel like a part of my life has been taken away from me. I will miss George Harrison, but I am sure that he will enjoy the music in Heaven! Take care and may God bless you and your family during this season that we observe the birth of His Son!" -Mark Loiselle

"I whole heartingly agree. A major player in all of our lives. We was a special sensitive and funny man. All day at work i have been listening to Houston's classic rock station. Beatles A-Z. Every song they ever recorded. Just Finished in the 'I's' 'I Am The Walrus'. Koo Koo Koo Joob" -Russell Griffith ('70)

"Yes, Dennis...Our hearts do weep gently. Gosh, no matter what one is never prepare to hear this kind of news. Oh a little brighter note. Hope you have a fabulous Holiday Season. Love is all you need." -Julie Consani ('71)

"Thank you, Dennis. It made me think when I heard of his death. As I grow older, I face the loss of all the people that made my childhood memorable. This quote from George Harrison made me feel better though when I saw it, 'God is love, so when you love someone remember where that love is coming from.' Rest in peace, George Harrison... -Bill Brandhorst ('71)

"Sorry to hear the news today... thought of you. Sis" -Linda DuPriest ('71)

"I can't even put into words what the Beatles meant to me, as I was growing up. They were the absolute hottest group EVER in my life, and their songs were playing during so many of my "significant life events" that I can't even think of my early years without thinking of them. I am deeply saddened by Harrison's death, although not as shocked as, say, when Lennon was killed. (After all, the press had reported on Harrison's illness....) In some way, it's just another "mile marker" in our lives....we're all getting older, and it should come as no surprise that the icons of our youth are themselves passing on, as we all will. Still, it makes one pause, it makes one sad. And it makes me really nostalgic....did we have any idea then how precious every moment in our lives really is? Thanks so much for all you do to keep us all in touch." -Janis Reynolds ('69)

"My heart breaks. Beatle songs were required learning in the sixties when I started goofing with guitars. George Harrison's songs always had a strange unnamable chord in them somewhere. Then I heard 'All Things Must Pass' sitting in Jackie Buxton's mom's livingroom. What SOUNDS! Forget Top 40. Play the sweetest notes with perfect economy. I'm still working on it. It started with George Harrison. I've read, he was at peace at the end. He knew the Art of Dying." -Mike Lovell ('72)

"Amen and Love" -Audrey Tarte ('76)

"A very sad day." -Clyde Gibson ('70)

"Dennis, It is depressing to think that we have lost George Harrison. I have learned so much from his music. As I grow older, I find I am still learning from the music, as my feelings and interpretations change. My children have been rocked to the music of George." -Jetta Justice ('71)

"My sentiments exactly...he was my favorite Beatle! I cried when I heard the news today." -Barbara Friedman ('71)

"I was devastated when John Lennon was assassinated. It happened too quick, too abrupt, too awful. I read in the paper months ago that George was having problems. Although they hushed it up, you know it wasn't good. But at least we knew of a problem with George's health. We are all getting to that age where we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Hopefully the light will be on for some time for all of us. George had a quote that is so universal ---- 'Peace of Mind and Be Happy' Thanks Dennis for letting us share, God bless.." -Steve Flores ('70)

"Such a sad day for us all." -Betty Consani ('70)

"I was greatly saddened to hear about George Harrison's death. I first heard the Beatles in 1963 or 1964 when we were stationed in Bermuda. There was only one radio station on the island and they played the Beatles long before they came to the US. The radio DJ was friends with my father and he give us some Beatle records that were promotionals sent to all radio stations. Needless to say, my mother made us throw them away when we moved back. Too bad, huh. On the day George died, I was already mourning the death of another great guitarist from Houston, TX. His name was Steve Radney. He was 51 years old, and recently diagnosed with liver cancer. He was an awesome player as well as a singer. Nobody played Riviera Paradise like him. I have had the pleasure of working with Steve over the last ten years. We will be hosting a benefit/memorial for Steve on December 9th at the Rhythm Room in Houston, Tx. Musical appearances by Houston's finest include: Tony Vega, Mark May and the Agitators, Jay Hooks, the legendary Kinney Abair and Gary Dorsey, Tommy Dardar, and so on. I will be the MC and band coordinator, as well as a performer that day. I can't wait to get to Rock-n-Roll Heaven to jam with these guys when my time comes! Imagine Whirled Peas!" -Sandy Hickey ('72)

"Well said! My daughter is enroute to Japan, while stationed in Guam, she is 19 and in the Navy, she too loves the Beatles, and will be heartbroken to hear this news. While he is no longer in pain, I am sure he is smiling down on us all now.. Yes, love is all around." -Tamra Gass ('77)

"All I can say is ... Amen! I'll remember George as well as all the Beatles. They were an important part of my life back then. Often it was their music that kept me company and brought peace to my soul as my mom and dad fought with each other. Interesting how from time to time we turn to music and it how it gives us comfort. Take care my friend." -Lee Mrha ('71)

"Heard the news this morning..... I will be listening to his music all day and remembering." -Myrna Portela ('72)

NOVEMBER 2001
RONALD GOGUEN & KATHY (BUXTON) GOGUEN ('72/'73) [E]found this web site and sent an e-mail... "Dennis, We recently found your website, quite by accident and thoroughly enjoy it. I am Ronald Goguen ('72) and my wife is Kathy (Buxton) Goguen ('73). Your site is a great thing. Bless you! It was fun reading through the emails, present and archived, and hearing of some of what's been going on. Expect a donation in the near future. Here's a quick bio on my family. Kat & I have been married for almost 28 years. We have three kids: Shawn (26) married without children in Mesquite, TX; Jennifer (24) married with three kids of her own (7 yr old, 3 yr old and 2 weeks old) in Dover, DE; and Kristen (18) a freshman at University of Kentucky. I retired from the Air Force after 20 1/2 years (Special Agent, Air Force Office of Special Investigations) and now work as a Photo Center Manager for Wal-Mart. Kathy also works for Wal-Mart as a Photo Center Manager. Thanks to your site, I've got several more emails to write, so I'll say adios for now. We'll keep in touch." --- It's great to hear from you, Ron & Kat. I'm glad you enjoy the web site and look forward to hearing from you again. (11/29/01)

MERRY (FIELD) BANKS ('75) [E]Merry sent me an e-mail that I would humbly like to share..."Dear Dennis, I just wanted to take a moment to drop you a line and tell you how much I love getting your newsy emails and how much I appreciate your generous spirit. I have always had great admiration for you. I marvel at your special gifts and talents and how you share them with the world. I think of you in all the plays at Jay and Lackland Little Theatre, on that dance show, lip syncing "BACK FIELD IN MOTION", as Mortimer, and how you have parlayed your talents into the great work you do now. I have started to send you a real card via snail mail many times, but here's a sure way to reach you. Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks for shining your light on so many people. Peace & Love"---Thank you for you kind words, Merry! It's wonderful, darling people like you that make everything or anything I do for classmates, so enjoyable to me. I appreciate you so very much and am honored to have you as a friend! (11/17/01)

DOUG WHITE ('72) Maui, Hawaii [E]is back with us!! Here's an e-mail from him... "Dennis, your site is great and it brings back a lot of nostalgia. I am living in Maui and life is good. Feel free to contact me or drop my e-mail address to others. I stay in touch with a few old friends from Jay, if you are interested. Aloha for now!" ---It's great to hear from you, Doug. Bring us up to date on your life these past 30 years! (11/3/01) UPDATE:"Aloha, again, Dennis. I remember you very well also and your sister, Linda. You wanted to know what I've been doing, well, I worked for the City of San Antonio for a while and then I went to Saudi Arabia for 7 years as an accountant for an oil company and then to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, where I worked in resort development for nine years and met my wife. For the last three years, Ihave lived in Maui, Hawaii, where I work for Starwood developing the new Westin Resort in Maui....if you ever wish to visit Maui e- mail me and Ican get you a screaming deal at any Westin or Sheraton. The family and I will be home for Christmas in San Antonio, from Dec. 16 to Jan. 6. I will give you a call. Adios and keep up the great work." ---Doug it really is good to hear from your after 30 years. Yes, be sure to call me when you get to town and we'll get together! All the best to you, my friend." (11/8/01)

OCTOBER 2001
RENITA FOSTER ('71) Monmouth New Jersey [E]sends word... "Dear Dennis, Just when I thought things were bad here, I received your e-mail on Kandace Bendele ('72). So very sad. I was notified last Friday I've been "drafted" or restored to active duty. This is supposed to be for just a year and hopefully I will not be deploying anywhere but my regular duty station, but no promises. With a teenage daughter still to raise I'm a little concerned but I'm praying my life won't change too much. At least I will be coming home at night. Did you get the last package I sent? Hope so. I sure miss San Anotnio now. It's getting scary here in New Jersey. I have no idea when I'll make it back there, now, so be sure and share all good happenings with me, so, I'm not totally out of it. Take care and stay in touch. Cheers, Renita." ---Your article in SOLDIER magazine was outstanding, Renita! Please take care, and on behalf of all your classmates and myself, thank you for your service to our country in these perilous times. (10/23/01)

WAYNE & VICKI (HOWELL) POTTER ('72/'73) Topeka, Kansas [E] send greeting to everyone. "Hello, from Wayne and Vicki in good 'ol Topeka, Kansas. We've been very busy setting up house, tending to family and business matters, and just generally adjusting to being newlyweds. It's been wonderful reuniting, reconnecting and being given a second chance at love. Most of you know that Wayne and I began our friendship way back at Lackland Baptist in 1966 and, later, Sul Ross Junior High; he was my first kiss, music partner, friend, boyfriend (briefly!), and later at John Jay... the leader of our band! He's still a wonderful musician and we are trying to fit in some singing and keyboarding together here at home. And I'm adjusting to life in Kansas after 27 years in California (which we hope to return to eventually). I've missed being in the JJ chat room and just can't seem to be online much in the evenings, but I do think of my wonderful alumni friends often. Wayne and I have been going through our now combined belongings and have stumbled upon the white gloves he wore as drum major, many photographs from JJ, yearbooks and various other memorabilia from our youth. That was a great time in our lives. We enjoy remembering it together. Please feel free to drop me an email sometime. Would love to hear from my old AND new JJ alumni pals. Take care." --Good to hear that all is well! (10/23/01)

CHARLES "CHUCK" OGIER ('70)Thousand Oaks, California[E] is an airline pilot whose routes take him all over the world. He sent in this e-mail to me today... "Dennis....another very long day...just got back from a relief flight to Lahore Pakistan flying UN materials into there. Have been staying busy with trips throughout the Middle-east region....lots of stuff to move. Keeping my eyes wide open....getting a little sensitive lately. Take care." ---Chuck, we're all doing fine, YOU be sure to take care, as well. You are in our prayers as you fly the friendly and sometimes, unfriendly, skies. God be with you. (10/10/01)

SEPTEMBER 2001
VICKI (CAFFEY) DILLEY ('72) Fredericksburg, Texas [E] enjoyed the SHINDIG Pizza Hut Party back in July and sent me this e-mail, today... "Hi Dennis - I have been able to briefly look at the web site since I saw you at Pizza Hut and have really enjoyed it! Thank-you for your tremendous effort in keeping folks in touch. Hopefully I will eventually get more time to e-mail some classmates. Thanks again - you are terrific."---Wow! Thanks for the compliments and be sure to stay in touch. (9/20/01)

MARK NORMAN ('71) Kentucky [E]"I'm normally not one to give investment advice, but this opportunity is one you might want to seriously consider: If you bought $1000 worth of Nortel stock one year ago, it would now be worth $49. If you bought $1000 worth of Budweiser (the beer, not the stock) one year ago, drank all the beer, and traded in the cans for the nickel deposit, you would have $79. My advice to you is to start drinking heavily."(9/20/01)

JOHN DARNELL ('70) Falls City, Texas[E] A "Lost Mustang" has come back. Actually, he graduated as a RAM, but his heart is with us. Here is his e-mail: "Hi Dennis, I am John Jude Darnell, I was a student at John Jay for 2 years, during '68 -'69, in '70 , we moved, and I was a senior at Marshall High School, where I graduated. I wish to God I would have stayed at Jay. I am currently living in Falls City, Texas. My wife's home town, and I am trying to put a radio and TV station here. While I was at Jay, I was working at KONO radio, on an OJT program, and used to call myself the 'Kaptain'. I am now known as the 'Doktor', because when I was working at KMAC/KISS radio, Joe Anthony gave me that name. I served in Vietnam for 2 years, got wounded, and went back to school, got a Ph.D in broadcast communications. I have so many things that have gone on in my life, since Jay, I would be writing you a long letter. I found your site, looking for a photographer, on Google, so I wanted to write you and let you know. Please write back, I'd love to hear from you and about your life and other's. Thank You."---Good to have you amongst us, John. Stay in touch! (9/16/01)

SPECIAL ARCHIVE NOTE: When this section originally appeared on the web site, it included several photographs along with the text. In order to save web site space, the photos have been dropped from the archives.

SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 - AMERICA ATTACKED
Any wanting to express themselves concerning the horrible terrorist attacks in New York and Washington may send them to me by e-mail and I'll post them under this column. Please scroll thru the entire list each time you visit, as some people have added to their original statements. Some of these submissions have been sent in by different people. In those cases, I have listed multiple names. Anyone wishing to send in a comment to be listed here, but who wants to remain anonymous, can do so. Just let me know that in the text of your e-mail.

My web space is being provided as an "open forum" and these comments and submissions DO NOT speak for me or necessarily reflect my views.

DEAR CLASSMATES... WHEN TODAY'S TRAGIC EVENTS TOOK PLACE AND I HAD HEARD THAT THE PENTAGON HAD BEEN ATTACKED, I IMMEDIATELY THOUGHT OF OUR CLASSMATE, CATHY BACON ('70), WHO WAS RECENTLY PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF COLONEL IN THE AIR FORCE AND WHO WAS STATIONED AT THE PENTAGON. AS IF AN ANSWER SENT FROM ABOVE TO EASE MY WORRIES, I UNEXPECTEDLY RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING E-MAIL FROM CATHY BACON'S MOTHER, MARTHA...

"Dear Dennis, This is Cathy Bacon's Mom writing...I am sure that you and the rest of Texas know what is happening here, on the east coast, in New York and in Washington D.C. at the Pentagon. Our phone has not stopped ringing today...everyone thinks that Cathy is still at the Pentagon... but she is assigned to Langley AFB which is 150 miles south of DC...She left for Oslo, Norway on 8/31 to present a paper at a conference there, and was due to return on the 16th...however, like everyone else, we are in doubt that will happen...she has volunteered to work at the center where she is in England....We pray that the worst is over."

IF THERE ARE ANY OTHER JOHN JAY CONNECTIONS TO THIS HORRIBLE EVENT, I WILL PASS ALONG THAT NEWS WHEN AVAILABLE. MAY GOD BLESS US ALL......... Dennis

"I do not know with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones." ~Albert Einstein

Information Regarding September 11 Incidents: The FBI has established a toll-free telephone number for anyone with information regarding the incidents on September 11 in New York City and the
Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. Please call 1-866-483-5137 with any information.
A form has also been placed on the Internet at http://www.ifccfbi.govto report information. 

UNITED STATES MILITARY WEATHER STATION FORECAST:
Weather today in Kabul, Afghanistan. Mostly Sunny with patchy mushroom clouds later this afternoon. Highs in the upper 900 to 1200 degrees with Winds out of the "West" at 350 to 600 miles per hour Tomorrows forecast - Not Applicable. This weather forecast is brought to you by your United States Military, Good day.
(Courtesy of Charles "Bubba" Abel ('70)

MANY CLASSMATES, TOO NUMEROUS TO LIST, SENT IN THE FOLLOWING LINK: LIGHT A CANDLE

SHARI ADCOCK... Most of you will not recall her name, but if you ever watched the TV show "SWINGTIME", she was the daughter of the producer of the show and really was the beautiful blonde star of the show. She is a wonderful person and I owe her and her mom a great debt of gratitutde for giving me a chance to be on televsion. Shari, Bruce Hathaway, and I have stayed in touch over the past 35 years and even have dinner on occasion. Anyway, Shari sent me the following e-mail which gives a look at America through the eyes of someone who wrote an editorial in a newspaper in Romania... "An ode to America- Why are Americans so united? They don't resemble one another even if you paint them! They speak all the languages of the world and form an astonishing mixture of civilizations. Some of them are nearly extinct, others are incompatible with one another, and in matters of religious beliefs, not even God can count how many they are. Still, the American tragedy turned three hundred million people into a hand put on the heart. Nobody rushed to accuse the White House, the army, the secret services that they are only a bunch of losers. Nobody rushed to empty their bank accounts. Nobody rushed on the streets nearby to gape about. The Americans volunteered to donate blood and to give a helping hand. After the first moments of panic, they raised the flag on the smoking ruins, putting on T-shirts, caps and ties in the colors of the national flag. They placed flags on buildings and cars as if in every place and on every car a minister or the president was passing. On every occasion they started singing their traditional song: "God Bless America!" Silent as a rock, I watched the charity concert broadcast on Saturday once, twice, three times, on different TV channels. There were Clint Eastwood, Willie Nelson, Robert DeNiro, Julia Roberts, Muhammad Ali, Jack Nicholson, Bruce Springsteen, Sylvester Stalone, James Wood, and many others whom no film or producers could ever bring together. The American's solidarity spirit turned them into a choir. Actually, choir is not the word. What you could hear was the heavy artillery of the American soul. What neither George W. Bush, nor Bill Clinton, nor Colin Powell could say without facing the risk of stumbling over words and sounds, was being heard in a great and unmistakable way in this charity concert. I don't know how it happened that all this obsessive singing of America didn't sound croaky, nationalist, or ostentatious! It made you green with envy because you weren't able to sing for your country without running the risk of being considered chauvinist, ridiculous, or suspected of who-knows-what mean interests. I watched the live broadcast and the rerun of its rerun for hours listening to the story of the guy who went down one hundred floors with a woman in a wheelchair without knowing who she was, or of the Californian hockey player, who fought with the terrorists and prevented the plane from hitting a target that would have killed other hundreds or thousands of people. How on earth were they able to bow before a fellow human? Imperceptibly, with every word and musical note, the memory of some turned into a modern myth of tragic heroes. And with every phone call, millions and millions of dollars were put in a collection aimed at rewarding not a man or a family, but a spirit which nothing can buy. What on earth can unite the Americans in such a way? Their land? Their galloping history? Their economic power? Money? I tried for hours to find an answer, humming songs and murmuring phrases which risk of sounding like commonplaces. I thought things over, but I reached only one conclusion. Only freedom can work such miracles!" (10/10/01)

GAY FRAZIER ('75)... Submits this and before you jump to conclusions about what is being said, please read it all the way through... "I don't know who wrote this, but it is certainly worth sharing. President Bush, Our Leader . . . This was the same man who came within a hair's breadth of losing an election in November, who withstood the political chicanery of the Florida Democratic machine to fix the vote count. This was the same man who admitted to having a drinking problem in younger years, and whose happy-go-lucky lifestyle led him to mediocre grades in college and an ill-fated oil venture. This was the same man who mangled syntax even more than his father, and whose speaking missteps became known as "Bushisms." And on Friday, this was the man who bore the weight of the world and the responsibilities of a generation with dignity, class, confidence, appropriate solemnity, and even much-needed wit. One thing struck me during the campaign, that difficult, roller-coaster campaign that now seems years ago. It was that George W. Bush never seemed to get ruffled. Whether the theft of a campaign debate video or the sudden (some would say, vicious) release of a DUI arrest two decades ago at a key moment, "W" did not lose his cool. At times, his staff seemed overconfident, as did many of us. A 350-electoral-vote win, they quietly implied . . . and we optimistically believed. Then they counted the votes, miscounted others, and re-counted still others. At the end, he was still there. Whereas Al Gore almost frantically huffed and puffed, trying to gin up something out of nothing, Bush quietly but confidently waited at his ranch. He didn't do anything: that is the mistake people have constantly made with this man, confusing lack of bluster for absence of action. No, his team of attorneys and the iron-willed James Baker were carrying out his orders, but "W" stayed in the background, confident and faithful. You see, it is this faith business that confounded everyone. We have had such actors and liars in public office that we have looked skeptically whenever anyone used the term faith. But this was the same man who was the first politician ever in recent memory to name Jesus Christ as the lord of his life on public TV. Not an oblique reference to being "born-again" or having a "life change." He said the un-PC-like phrase, "Jesus Christ," to which his handlers and advisors, no doubt, off stage, were also saying, "Jesus Christ" in a much different tone. God has a way of honoring those who honor Him. David learned that while he was on the run from Saul's armies. Job learned that after his time of horrible tribulation. The Messiah said so Himself, many times. So this was the man who actually put faith into practice. He actually loves those who hate him. It is a staggering concept, so foreign in daily occurrences that few thought it anything but grandstanding. Even one of "W"'s biggest supporters chided the President for adhering to his "new tone." Yet there he was, again and again, thanking the Democrats. Appointing his enemies to high places in his government. Inviting his former foes and their wives to private movie screenings, and (I know, this is hard to stomach) even treating them with dignity. See, this was the man who learned early on how faith worked: by praying for his enemies, you "heap burning coals upon their heads." This was the man who named the absolute top people in national security and defense, then caught barbs from the politically righteous that this one didn't have the right views on abortion or that one didn't have the right position on guns. And on September 11, at mid-morning, this was the man thrust into a position only known by Roosevelt, Churchill, Lincoln, and Washington. The weight of the world was on his shoulders, and the responsibility of a generation was on his soul. So this same man---the one that the media repeatedly attempted to tarnish with charges of "illegitimacy," and the one whose political opponents desperately sought to stonewall until mid-term elections---walked to his seat at the front of the National Cathedral just three days after the two most impressive symbols of American capitalism and prosperity virtually evaporated, along with, perhaps, thousands of Americans. As he sat down next to his wife, immediately I knew that even if his faith ever faltered, hers didn't. I have never seen a more peaceful face than Laura Bush, whose eyes seemed as though they were already gazing at the final outcome . . . not just of this conflict, but of her reward in Heaven itself. In this marriage, you indeed got two for the price of one. Then came the defining moment of our generation. Some people fondly recall their Woodstock days. Others mark with grim sadness November 22, 1963, as the day America lost her innocence. But I firmly believe when the history of this time is written, it will be acknowledged by friend and foe alike that President George W. Bush came of age in that cathedral and lifted a nation off its knees. It wasn't so much his words, though read a decade later, they will indeed be as stirring as any. This conflict would end, he noted, ". . . at a time of our choosing." It certainly wasn't his emotion. What had to have been one of the most stunning exhibitions of self-control in presidential history, "W" was able to deliver his remarks without losing either his resolve or his focus, or, more important, his confidence. It was as if God's hand, which had guided him through that sliver-thin election, now rested fully on him. His quiet confidence let our enemies know . . . and believe me, they know . . . that they made a grave miscalculation. Now, this same man who practiced his faith through a tough election, who steeled his convictions even more in a drawn-out Florida battle, and who never once gave in to the temptation to get in the gutter with his foes (well, ok, maybe the "Clymer" comment is an exception), this same man now lifted the weight of the world and the responsibility of a generation and put it on his modest shoulders as though it were another unpleasant duty. As he walked back to his seat, the camera angle was appropriate. He was virtually alone in the scene, alone in that massive place of God, just him and the Lord. But that's the way it's always been in his life recently. In that brief time it took him to return to his seat, I believe he heard words to the effect of, "You can do this, George. I am with you always. And you can do this well, because I am going before you. And don't worry about the weight. I've got it." And I saw in his eyes a quiet acknowledgment. "I know. Thank you, Lord." Back at his seat, when "W" sat down, George H. W. Bush reached over and took his son's hand. The elder Bush always struck me as a religious man, but not someone who shared his life on a daily basis with the Lord. George H. W. treats the Father like a respected uncle, visiting Him on appropriate holidays and knowing the relationship is real, but not constant. Anyway, I believe that in that fatherly squeeze George H. W. said, "I wish I could do this for you, son, but I can't. You have to do this on your own." "W" squeezed back and gave him that look of peace that Laura had kept throughout. It said, "I don't have to do it alone, dad. I've got help." What a blessing to have a professing Christian as President - one who is not ashamed to admit it! Please take a moment after you read this to pray for him - he truly does have the weight of the world on his shoulders. Pray that God will sustain him and give him wisdom and discernment in his decisions. Make no mistake about it - the decisions he makes in the coming days, weeks and months will literally define the future of our country and the free world. Pray for his protection and that of his family. Our President needs Christians around the world to be praying for him. As this makes the e-mail rounds, eventually there could literally be people praying for him 24/7!! He needs it. God bless us all!

DENISE (RUPP) FRENCH ('70)... Submitted this to us... "Four thousand gathered for mid-day prayer in a downtown cathedral. A New York City church filled and emptied six times last Tuesday. The owner of a Manhattan tennis shoe store threw open his doors and gave running shoes to those fleeing the towers. People stood in lines to give blood, in hospitals to treat the sick, in sanctuaries to pray for the wounded. America was different this week. We wept for people we did not know. We sent money to families we've never seen. Talk show hosts read Scriptures. Journalists printed prayers. Our focus shifted from fashion hemlines and box scores to orphans and widows and the future of the world. We were different this week. Republicans stood next to Democrats, Catholics prayed with Jews. Skin color was covered by the ash of burning towers. This is a different country than it was a week ago. We are not as self centered as we were . We're not as self reliant as we were. Hands are out. Knees are bent. This is not normal. And I have to ask the question, "Do we want to go back to normal?" Are we being given a glimpse of a new way of life? Are we as a nation, being reminded that the enemy is not each other and the power is not in ourselves and the future is not in our bank accounts? Could this unselfish prayerfulness be the way God intended for us to live? Maybe this, in His eyes, is the way we are called to live. And perhaps the best response to this tragedy is to refuse to go back to normal. Perhaps the best response is to follow the example of Tom Burnet. He was a passenger of flight 93. Minutes before the plane crashed in the fields of Pennsylvania, he reached his wife by cell phone. "We're all going to die," he told her "But there are three of us who are going to do something about it." We can do something about it as well. We can resolve to care more. We can resolve to pray more. And we can resolve that, God being our helper, we 'll never go back to normal again." (9/22/01)

MIKE CUNNINGHAM ('70)... "How are you doing, Dennis, and all my fellow class mates? Of all this that is happening to our great nation I cannot help but to think of all who were and are part of my life. With what happened to all those innocent people makes ones heart cry with emotions,with fear,with anger,with love and with pride of this wonderful nation.A nation for the free and home of the brave. Without this freedom that our forefathers fought and died for I can honestly say that my life without my friends without my family and without my God would not exist. We take for granted all that we have and when something of this magnitude happens across the globe we tend to listen but not with our hearts until now. When it hits home it reminds us what so many of our neighboring countries have been going through since terriosm existed. This land is God's land and I'm sure he will send his armies to fight along the side of rightiousness and innocence. It is 300a.m. friday morning and cannot find sleep and needed to write to my fellow class mates, my friends. To say to all of you.....to take care.....to express my love for all of you....and that my prayers will be with all of you. It seems as I get older I show so much more emotions. Cry over things that sometimes seem just a little stupid and sometimes I wonder why and now I have found that answer. As i get older my heart is guided by my spirit and it leads me the way it needs to be lead. As I get these wonderful letters from you and my other classmates you to are guided by your hearts and Ithank God my heart has the oppurtunity to accept all of you as my brothers, my sisters and my friends. Love you all." (9/21/01)

RONNIE REYNOLDS ('71)... (Note: This article was submitted by so many people. I've listed just one name, Ronnie's, but thanks to everyone too numerous to list.) "The Binch's Story: Every U down in U-ville liked U.S. a lot, but the Binch, who lived Far East of U-ville, did not. The Binch hated U.S, the whole U.S. way! Now, don't ask me why, for nobody can say, It could be his turban was screwed on too tight, or the sun from the desert had beaten too bright. But I think that the most likely reason of all, may have been that his heart was two sizes too small. But, whatever the reason, his heart or his turban, he stood facing U-ville, the part that was urban. They're doing their business," he snarled from his perch! "They're raising their families! They're going to church! They're leading the world and their empire is thriving, I MUST keep the S's and U's from surviving!" Tomorrow, he knew, all the U's and the S's, would put on their pants and their shirts and their dresses, They'd go to their offices, playgrounds and schools, and abide by their U and S values and rules, And then they'd do something he liked least of all, Every U down in U-ville, the tall and the small, Would stand all united, each U and each S, And they'd sing Uville's anthem, "God bless us! God bless!" All around their Twin Towers of U-ville, they'd stand, and their voices would drown every sound in the land! "I must stop that singing," Binch said with a smirk, And he had an idea--an idea that might work! The Binch stole some U airplanes in U morning hours, and crashed them right into the U-ville Twin Towers."They'll wake to disaster!" he snickered, so sour, "And how can they sing when they can't find a tower?" The Binch cocked his ear as they woke from their sleeping, all set to enjoy their U-wailing and weeping, Instead, he heard something that started quite low, And it built up quite slow, but it started to grow. And the Binch heard the most unpredictable thing... he couldn't believe it--they started to sing! He stared down at U-ville, not trusting his eyes, what he saw was so shocking a disgusting surprise! Every U down in U-ville, the tall and the small, was singing! Without any towers at all! He HADN'T stopped U-Ville from singing! It sung! For down deep in the hearts of the old and the young, those Twin Towers were standing, called Hope and called Pride, And you can't smash the towers we hold deep inside. So, we circle the sites where our heroes did fall, With a hand in each hand of the tall and the small, And we mourn for our losses while knowing we'll cope, for we still have inside that U-Pride and U-Hope. For America means a bit more than tall towers, tt means more than wealth or political powers. It's more than our enemies ever could guess. So, may God bless America! Bless us! God bless!" (9/22/01)

KATIE (MILLER) GERBER ('69)... "I think this is a fabulous idea -------- And it certainly does make sense to me. A movement has been started like that from Desert Storm. During Desert Storm we tied yellow ribbons anywhere we could. Well, now the movement is to tie purple ribbons the same way. This is for two reasons. 1. In remembrance of not only the firefighters, police officers, paramedics who have died, but also for all who have died in this terrible tragedy. 2. Just as in the military, when a serviceman get injured, he is given the Purple Heart. Well, our country has been injured to its core. Please pass this on to everyone you know, and let's see purple ribbons everywhere. Along with the flag of the United States." (9/19/01)

MICHELLE (NELSON) HANGEN ('72)... Sent in this submission- "Dear Osama Bin Laden, Yasser Arafat, and Sadam Hussein, et. al., We are pleased to announce that we unequivocally accept your challenge to an old-fashioned game of whoop-ass. Now that we understand the rule that there are no rules, we look forward to playing by them for the first time. Since this game is a winner-take-all, we unfortunately are unable to invite you to join us at the victory celebration. But rest assured that we will toast you -- LITERALLY. While we will admit that you are off to an impressive lead, it is however now our turn at the plate. By the way, we will be playing on your court now. Batter up. Sincerely, The 270,000,000 citizens of the United States of America." (9/19/01)

TIM KNIPP ('73)... Submitted the following-A view from Afghanistan... "Dear Friends, The following was sent to me by my friend Tamim Ansary. Tamim is an Afghani-American writer. He is also one of the most brilliant people I know in this life. When he writes, I read. When he talks, I listen. Here is his take on Afghanistan and the whole mess we are in. Dear Gary and whoever else is on this email thread: >I've been hearing a lot of talk about "bombing Afghanistan back to the Stone Age." Ronn Owens, on KGO Talk Radio today, allowed that this would mean killing innocent people, people who had nothing to do with this atrocity, but "we're at war, we have to accept collateral damage. What else can we do?" Minutes later I heard some TV pundit discussing whether we "have the belly to do what must be done." And I thought about the issues being raised especially hard because I am from Afghanistan, and even though I've lived here for 35 years I've never lost track of what's going on there. So I want to tell anyone who will listen how it all looks from where I'm standing. I speak as one who hates the Taliban and Osama Bin Laden. There is no doubt in my mind that these people were responsible for the atrocity in New York. I agree that something must be done about those monsters. But the Taliban and Bin Laden are not Afghanistan. They're not even the government of Afghanistan. The Taliban are a cult of ignorant psychotics who took over Afghanistan in 1997. Bin Laden is a political criminal with a plan. When you think Taliban, think Nazis. When you think Bin Laden, think Hitler. And when you think "the people of Afghanistan" think "the Jews in the concentration camps." It's not only that the Afghan people had nothing to do with this atrocity. They were the first victims of the perpetrators. They would exult if someone would come in there, take out the Taliban and clear out the rats nest of international thugs holed up in their country. Some say, why don't the Afghans rise up and overthrow the Taliban? The answer is, they're starved, exhausted, hurt, incapacitated, suffering. A few years ago, the United Nations estimated that there are 500,000 disabled orphans in Afghanistan--a country with no economy, no food. There are millions of widows. And the Taliban has been burying these widows alive in mass graves. The soil is littered with land mines, the farms were all destroyed by the Soviets. These are a few of the reasons why the Afghan people have not overthrown the Taliban. We come now to the question of bombing Afghanistan back to the Stone Age. Trouble is, that's been done. The Soviets took care of it already. Make the Afghans suffer? They're already suffering. Level their houses? Done. Turn their schools into piles of rubble? Done. Eradicate their hospitals? Done. Destroy their infrastructure? Cut them off from medicine and health care? Too late. Someone already did all that. New bombs would only stir the rubble of earlier bombs. Would they at least get the Taliban? Not likely. In today's Afghanistan, only the Taliban eat, only they have the means to move around. They'd slip away and hide. Maybe the bombs would get some of those disabled orphans, they don't move too fast, they don't even have wheelchairs. But flying over Kabul and dropping bombs wouldn't really be a strike against the criminals who did this horrific thing. Actually it would only be making common cause with the Taliban--by raping once again the people they've been raping all this time. So what else is there? What can be done, then? Let me now speak with true fear and trembling. The only way to get Bin Laden is to go in there with ground troops. When people speak of "having the belly to do what needs to be done" they're thinking in terms of having the belly to kill as many as needed. Having the belly to overcome any moral qualms about killing innocent people. Let's pull our heads out of the sand. What's actually on the table is Americans dying. And not just because some Americans would die fighting their way through Afghanistan to Bin Laden's hideout. It's much bigger than that folks. Because to get any troops to Afghanistan, we'd have to go through Pakistan. Would they let us? Not likely. The conquest of Pakistan would have to be first. Will other Muslim nations just stand by? You see where I'm going. We're flirting with a world war between Islam and the West. And guess what: that's Bin Laden's program. That's exactly what he wants. That's why he did this. Read his speeches and statements. It's all right there. He really believes Islam would beat the west. It might seem ridiculous, but he figures if he can polarize the world into Islam and the West, he's got a billion soldiers. If the west wreaks a holocaust in those lands, that's a billion people with nothing left to lose, that's even better from Bin Laden's point of view. He's probably wrong, in the end the west would win, whatever that would mean, but the war would last for years and millions would die, not just theirs but ours. Who has the belly for that? Bin Laden does. Anyone else?" (9/19/01)

JIM DAVIS ('70)... Sent in the following (9/18/01)...
If I knew it would be the last time that I see you walk out the door,
I would give you a hug and kiss and call you back for one more.
If I knew it would be the last time I'd hear your voice lifted up in praise,
I would video tape each action and word, so I could play them back day after day.

If I knew it would be the last time, I could spare an extra minute or two to stop and say I love you,
Instead of assuming you would know that I do.
If I knew it would be the last time, I would be there to share your day,
Well, I'm sure you'll have so many more, so I can let just this one slip away.

For surely there's always tomorrow to make up for an oversight,
And we always get a second chance to make everything right.
There will always be another day to say our I love you's,
And certainly there's another chance to say our "Anything I can do's?"

But just in case I might be wrong, and today is all I get, I
'd like to say how much I love you and I hope we never forget,
Tomorrow is not promised to anyone, young or old alike,
And today may be the last chance you get to hold your loved one tight..

So if you're waiting for tomorrow, why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes, you'll surely regret the day,
That you didn't take that extra time for a smile, a hug, or a kiss
And you were too busy to grant someone, what turned out to be their one last wish.

So hold your loved ones close today, whisper in their ear,
Tell them how much you love them and that you'll always hold them dear,
Take time to say "I'm sorry, please forgive me," "thank you" or "it's okay".
And if tomorrow never comes, you'll have no regrets about today.

BEVERLEE (BRIGHAM) SMITH ('71)... "Surfing the web this morning I found this quote from President George W. Bush and I just had to share it: "When I take action I'm not going to fire a $2 million missile at a $10 empty tent and hit a camel in the butt. It's going to be decisive." (9/17/01)

BETTY (CONSANI) SNYDER ('70)... Sent me the following e-mail and a copy of an e-mail that her father received. It is a firsthand account of the horror of the terrorist attack... "Dennis, I am so very sorry that I missed the class chat last evening. We had a get-together planned with my 27 year old daughter who plays ultimate frisbee (to watch her play and picnic) and although not meaning ot disrespect ANYONE that may have lost lives or loved ones, part of our family went through with this little get-together. Therefore, I was unaware and unavailable to get online for the class chat. I must say that yesterday did me a world of good. I needed to get away from the television and radio accounts of the tragedy and it was good to be with part of my family ...if nothing else just to have reassurance that this part of my world was alright. My heart goes out to those that have lost friends and family in this tragedy. My father got the following from a friend of his. I thought I would share it with you... Her father says-- "This was sent to me by my friend Harry Coolidge, who received it from one of the Kemper Employees it was sent to by Mr Jennings. Kemper and Reliance and Fireman's are Insurance Companies. Marsh is a major Insturance Broker. Date: Fri, Sep 14, 2001, 9:00am (PDT+3) Subject: WTC Kemper employee This was received by a fellow employee. Our mother company, AON, had 1100 people in Tower 2. ------John Jennings 09/13/2001 06:17 PM ... Bill- I'm alive. That should say it all... but it misses by a mile. So many emotions and I expect tomorrow to be the hardest... when I start to find out which friends I won't ever see again. I had a meeting on Long Island and was too tired to get out of bed. I came very close to just driving directly to Long Island but forced myself to make it in to the office first... just for an hour or two. For some reason, I didn't park in the usual (open air) lot adjacent to the World Trade Center. I figured I would save a couple of Kemper's dollars and walk a couple of blocks. I told the garage attendant I would be back around 10:30. Up to the office on what used to be the 36th floor of what used to be One World Trade Center. Business as usual. Adrian Oddi was in from the Jersey office. I had too much to do to even tease him about showing up in NY. Cindy and Aklima hadn't yet made it in. Pretty much a normal mid-week work day. 8:30 I call home to see if I can catch Melody and Lara before they head out for school. As usual I get the machine. I ramble long enough for someone to pick up. Today it works. Lara answers. My morning is brightened by our little conversation. After telling each other that "I love you" she asks if I want to talk to Mommy. I tell her no. I'll talk to her later. The computer is booting up as I update my voicemail message for the day. I go to the file area to hunt for the files of the moment. I have a few files in my hand and am silently cursing the fact that I can't find a few others when Whump!! The noise is loud and distant but ominous. The buildings are designed to sway in high winds but this felt like a giant fist of God had slammed us to the side. It almost feels like the building was going to slowly topple right then. First thought. Bomb? Plane? Whatever it was... the building did not just "sway" back into a normal position. The whump turns to a lingering rumble as the plane continues to blast through the building and the fireball explodes. A harmonic resonance seems to have started. It feels like an earthquake and looks like files and cabinets may begin toppling. The unnatural and strong swaying and rumbling earthquake continues for what felt like more than a minute. Adrian is out of his office. I'm out of the file area. Everyone else in our area is suddenly gathered in front of the main work space. Earthquakes do not occur in just one building. The rain of glass and debris from above roars outside of our own windows. At this point, I am convinced the building is going to fall and that we are going to die. I'm thinking "How many seconds will it take?" Someone asks, "What should we do?" but they know the answer. We all head for the exit nearby. We are about five floors down before the first alarms are heard. Somehow the shaking stopped and we feel like everything is going to be OK for us. We and others in the stairs finally voice our thoughts of death and start guessing that it was likely a plane... because of the glass from above. People were great. When workers diving into the stairwell from another floor look panicked and could start a stampede... we directed them to slow it down. At other times, we got people to keep it moving. Various little emergencies on the stairs got handled together. Things start slowing down because of the crowd. We start to smell smoke. Maybe it was a bomb after all. Somewhere around 25, we finally see building personnel. They are directing us onto the floor because the smoke is getting a little thicker and the air is better on that floor. I'm with Adrian. We hang close to the door (out of the way) to wait for Kathy and then Joyce. I stay by the door. I'm taller than Adrian and could probably spot Maria and Wanda better if they are still behind us. People are ignoring the door people and filing past the floor. We decide... we are going too. Kathy was able to see on a TV on that floor that it was a plane after all. Terrorists. Maria and Wanda haven't made it to us yet. With the other floors merging into the stairwells, they could be a long way behind. It would only clog the flow to do anything other than keep moving. Keep moving. Some floors below, we all make room for some burn victims to descend past us. There are two of them. They are black from the burned jet fuel. They look numb. The first looks relatively better though he holds his arms in front in obvious pain. The second is an African American woman with blistered and almost "melted" patches on her face. A large swath of her arm looks Caucasian where her pigmented skin was burned off. Sheets of it look like they will soon follow. As they descend, we are also making a path for firefighters to ascend. A group of about 12 pass us. We probably made way for them to die. (I understand 200 of the 400 responding firefighters are dead as I write.) The last flights are slippery from the torrent of water cascading down the stairs. No one is being particular about clothes or shoes. We finally splash out of the stairwell into our first view of the plaza. It looks like a war-zone. Glass, debris, burning chunks of who-knows-what, ash. We are all on the move. No time (or inclination) for a closer look. Kathy said she sees bodies. We shoot across 30 feet of no-man's-land to the overhang of another building with arms over our heads. We enter and start heading across the pedestrian bridge to the World Financial Center by the river. No one brought anything. Jackets, wallets, keys, etc. are still 36 floors above. No one has a cell phone to let loved ones know we are OK. At this point its Adrian, Kathy, Joyce, and me. We still believe that Wanda and Maria are somewhere behind us... though it would be pointless to look for them. Kathy is obviously shaken by the bodies in the plaza... and by the jumpers. "I'm going to look for a phone," I said. "Call Andrea and let her know I'm OK," Adrian responded. "Wait! You don't know my number!" "What town?" He yells it out... then, "We're listed" "Got it." I think I yell something about calling everyone as we part. I dive into the area by Morans because security isn't tight yet. No phones. Security tightens. I can't get back to the others now. No place is open. Whatever public phones are near... are thronged. I think to get to the other side of town to go to a friend's office to use their phone. I couldn't wait for a pay phone or the chance of getting answering machines... or other obstacles to collect calls. I can't get across right away due to the effective emergency response personnel now deployed. The city was mobilized as a well ordered and incredibly efficient team. People were cooperative. There was no looting or signs of anything other than help or horror. I finally see the holes in the building I just came from. Fire in both buildings. It finally hits me. I'm not the only one with tears. I can see the area that those holes and the fire zone cover and know that hundreds or thousands are dead. How can anyone above those floors of fire get past them? "Oh my God!" someone shrieks. "They're jumping!" I can't get myself to look. Adrenaline keeps my legs going. I need to get to my friends at the Fleetwood Agency for their phone. Amongst all the thoughts and emotions, I keep thinking of Melody and all of our families who must be going through Hell not knowing. I still don't know the course of events but think that the plane that hit our building must have passed through and hit Two World Trade. The fire at Two looked too low though. From the snatches of passing conversations, I come to understand that there were two crashes. (The second must have occurred while we were in the stairwell still.) I make it to Fleetwood. They are a mess of emotion. Whatever composure I had is lost as they tackle me with hugs of relief and tears. Though Kemper was fine, we are all worried about others. Ralph gives me his office to use for calls. I look at my watch for the first time since 8:30. Melody has dropped Lara off at school and is probably still home before work! We can barely talk between our sobs. There is a TV on. Between calls and talking with everyone there... I'm getting the media perspective. It looks so unreal on the TV. The impact is strong but somehow diluted from the first person perspective. I'm on the phone with my sister-in-law Johnna. I can see the trade center burning as I talk. Debris, ash, smoke. It's already dusk in lower Manhattan... though it's not yet 11:00am. The clouds of smoke are flowing East. The TV doesn't see the perspective I do. Suddenly, I'm distracted from my talking. The corner windows of Two are starting to blow out in a horrifying "unzipping" motion from top to bottom. I have no idea what is happening and my first thought is that the heat has created some kind of domino effect. Then I see the plume of the top floors collapsing down on the others even as the horrible "ttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt" sound of the unzipping reaches us. The roar and cloud are too much. I can only babble to Johnna. "Oh my God... Oh my God... Oh my God... Oh my God..." Johnna sounds frantic to know what is happening too. I can barely breathe no less speak. Somehow I say something and am diving out of the room to be with the others. Emotions are high. It gets dark. When my old building follows shortly after... it becomes a dusty night for a short while. The snow that covers everything is soot, and ash, and powdered concrete. It's thick. What followed after with my friends at the Fleetwood Agency was just one of many stories that will be told about coping and somehow getting people home safely. Tomorrow will be the hard day. My friends at Aon were on the 92nd floor of #2. Fortunately, a friend who recently transferred from their NY office to LA told me that he knows several who made it out. After our building (#1) was hit, many were told to "sit tight and wait for instructions." I was told that Glenn Pellitiere, Rob McDonnough, Betty Calderon, Tom Rhatigan and a couple of others had basically said "Screw that" and started the evacuation on their own. They made it from what I am told. No word on many though. A friend at Marsh told me that some 1,300 to 1,500 Marsh employees are unaccounted for from our building. No news on the Fireman's Fund people who just recently moved into 2. No news on the RLI guys in 1. Sounds like a number (if not all) of the Guy Carpenter people may have been below the main crash like us. Another friend told me he was held up 15 minutes for a meeting. He could be another of the Marsh "unaccounted for" if it weren't for the hold-up. He was walking to our building when he watched the first plane hit. He saw about twenty people jumping from the flames before going home. I'm glad I'm home myself but still coming to grips with it all. I hate to be un-christian but I feel anger and the need for retribution mixed with my other emotions. I was so happy to hear Bush say that we will make no distinction between the terrorists and those who harbored the terrorists. IF it turns out that those responsible were shielded or harbored by a country like... say Afghanistan... then we should go to war and make that country pay so badly for this atrocity that no one will think to repeat it. I do not want a protracted war. I said it half-jokingly to someone that we should drop the bomb in such an instance. The more I thought of it... the more I actually started to believe it might be the ONLY response that would serve the purpose of protecting Americans from this sort of evil again. Anything less might start a Jihad. (What good are weapons of "deterrence" if they will never be used.) If my soul is stained by this hope... then so be it. I would like to hear on the morning news that four bombs have been dropped. One on Afghanistan, one on Libya, one on Iran and one on Iraq. Let the world condemn us. I don't particularly care. I just want to be "safe" from animals like those who are quietly or not so quietly dancing at this news. I want it to end. I want the world to fear U.S. retribution so intense that this NEVER happens again." ---Thank you for giving so much to fellow MUSTANGS, Dennis. God Bless you and God Bless America. (9/17/01)

JETTA JUSTICE ('71)... "Dennis, My family and friends thought that a sound ecological practice for the problems in the middle east is to transport the head hunters from the Island of New Guinea and release them into the mountains of Afganistan. Advise the tribe members who are cannibals to hunt and eat as usual. Give them a photo of Usama Bin Laden and something that remotely smells like him. Who knows the head hunters might be quite happy there. I guess being an Air Force Bratt helps because I feel much like the times in the 50's when they used to evacuate us from Germany into France and other places. This is just another time when we leave Dad behind in the missle silo....He used to always tell me what to do if I saw a bright light in the sky. I pray for peace on earth, but I also know there is to much hatred. Love Jetta " (9/17/01)

MARGO (GARCIA) SABATER ('71)... "God bless you Dennis for your caring heart and continuing to think of all of us. You are certainly one of the main reasons that Love is all around :) Thanks." (9/17/01)

GLENN BURCHARD ('69)... "Dennis, I just finished reading several of the emails you've received concerning the horrific events of last Tuesday. If there are any of our former English teachers out there reading the site, I'm sure they are tremendously impressed with what has been written. If only we had had some of that passion in our high school essays! Unfortunately this passion has a source that we would all rather do without. I find myself, as I'm sure do many others, having mixed emotions. I won't try to describe them in detail, as others have already expressed them much better than I could. Part of me (the old B-52 crewmember) wants to "nuke 'em till they glow". The 50 year old (dare I say wiser?) in me says to take a more systemic approach and eradicate the source(s) without causing pain to those who are innocent. I do believe that this may one of those defining moments for democracy and our civilization, where we can truly shape, in a positive and lasting way, the world for ourselves and those who follow. I don't doubt for a moment that this will be a long struggle and that we'll all have to make sacrifices along the way--and it's been a long time since we've really had to face that reality. I'm not sure that the folks younger than us, and many of us as well, understand what that means. Our generation is just about the last one to have had a significant number of its young be put in harm's way; and even many of us who served in the military in our generation were never put a position to face the challenges of war. Unfortunately, our children may not be able to say that. But, I do believe that we are presented with an opportunity to face up to this unsolicited challenge and create a safer world for generations to come. If we don't do it, who will? I don't think we can respond to this evil and turn it into good by showing these terrorists compassion and forgiveness. I believe that Our Maker put our great country in the position it's in so that we can help create a world void of such senseless violence and hate. We have a mixed record in that regard. I don't mean that we have to be the world's policeman, but when this kind of horrific behavior rears it's ugly head, we must respond. Are we a perfect society? Of course not. We've got a lot of areas in which we need to clean up our act. I hope this is a wake-up call to do that. But with all our warts and faults we're still a great people with a great heart and there's no doubt in my mind that our nation and the world will be a better place when we reach the end of this. I feel I must respond to some of the comments posted here and on other web sites regarding Nostradamus' predictions of this tragedy. The intrepretation posted on this site, by some of my classmates whom I respect, is just that-an interpretation. In fact, that intrepretation has, I believe, a very weak foundation. They are made up of pieces of several different Nostradamus' quatrains and in some cases are not even the words he wrote. There are several sites on the internet that will give an entirely different perspective, or interpretation of his words. While I must admit that Tuesday morning the question flashed through my mind about whether or not this is "the beginning of the end", in my humble opinion I don't think we can use this interpretation of Nostradamus as confirmation. While I don't pretend to understand His wisdom, I still believe that God wants to keep us around awhile longer to see if we can get a bit better at living together on this planet. Call me an Optimist!" (9/16/01) NOTE FROM DENNIS: As I mentioned when I posted the Nostradamus writings, they had been sent to me in various forms and I combined them as best I could. As Glenn has pointed out they do not appear as they may have been originally written or printed and they are open to anyone's interpretation.

TAMRA (GASS) REGAN ('77)... "just a brief message to let everyone out there know that if your son or daughter is in the military, pat yourself on the back..I just got home about an hour ago from Chicago..I flew out yesterday to see my daughter who graduated yesterday morning from the Navy, (I was to fly out on Tuesday). I got into Chicago about 8PM last night after two days of trying to get out. and was able to see her this morning for about 6 hours. and then fly back to Phoenix. They did not know the scope that had happened while in basic, just that we may go to war..Michelle said they got to go into Chicago yesterday and was proud to have joined (scared as she is).People were coming up to her and asking for there photo with her/them and "thanking her and her buddies". I now have two kids in the service, one a refuler in air (boom operator) and they have deployed him as of this letter. Look like we will go to war soon. For all my fellow classmates who have kids in the service or not. Let keep all them in our prayers. This is a tough time we will face aand I am not afraid to admit I am scared as well..If at anytime you need anything or want to pass on a few words to other class mates let me know. Until we meet again, Peace be with each one of you and your families." (9/16/01)

FRANK "RIP" DOUVRY ('70)... "My timing as usual is impeccable. For the last 8 weeks I have been spending 1 week in Burbank, CA and 1 week in Manhattan, NY. Luckily, this was a CA week. I was astounded at what I saw and recognized many of the places on TV that I was at just last week. I was planning on getting you a mug from the Times Square area but I don't think I will be going back there for awhile. Hope you are doing well." (9/14/01)

WILLY LOWE ('71)... A very powerful essay. I think this says what many of us feel:"SIMPLY KILL THESE BASTARDS, by STEVE DUNLEAVY-- September 12, 2001 -- THE response to this unimaginable 21st century Pearl Harbor should be as simple as it is swift- kill the bastards. No, I don't mean hunt them, arrest them, extradite them and prosecute them in a court of law. I mean a far quicker and neater form of retribution for this cabal of cowards. A gunshot between the eyes, blow them to smithereens, poison them if you have to. President George W. Bush should right now be putting his name to a fresh document - one that rescinds Executive Order 12333, signed by President Gerald Ford on Feb. 18, 1976. It reads in part: "No person employed by or acting on behalf of the United States should engage in assassination or conspire to engage in assassination." Right for that time, wrong for this time. Train assassins (we've done it before), hire mercenaries, put a couple of million bucks up for bounty hunters to get them dead or alive, preferably dead. As for cities or countries that host these worms, bomb them into basketball courts. No, it won't bring back the thousands of innocents and the brave cops and firefighters lost, but it might stop the sacrifice of other innocents. "This is an act of war of an enormity that is staggering," Sen. John McCain of Arizona said yesterday. Former Secretary of State Gen. Alexander Haig said: "We should be ready to take resolute action, which we have failed to in the past." The point is that Osama bin Laden has been at war with us for a decade - make no mistake, he's behind the attacks. At the beginning of the year, he issued a video to his followers urging them "to penetrate" the United States. Only three weeks ago, he was quoted in an Arabic newspaper saying he was preparing a big action against our country. He is the sole individual who has the billions of dollars, the training camps and the fanatics to have perpetrated this sophisticated bloodbath. Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich said yesterday: "This wasn't planned in a handful of homes by a handful of fanatics." When we put a rocket in the pocket of Moammar Khadafy, he went as quiet as a mouse. If the CIA can't find this ameba Osama Bin Laden, leave it to someone else. We should give the Taliban, which protects this monster, 24 hours to clear the city of Kabul of innocent civilians and then start the process of urban renewal with high-altitude bombing. Then we should go into the interior, hunt down the desert rat and execute him and his followers on the spot. And if Saddam Hussein makes so much as a peep, do him, too. The time has come." (9/14/01)

BRENDA (PIGG) STOUT ('71)... "THE GREAT AMERICAN STOCK REVIVAL America's blood banks are overflowing with people who want to help America in this time of crisis. So many are volunteering to donate blood that some donors are being turned away. But there is a way that you can make a difference. You can fight terrorism, help America get back on its feet and memorialize those who died: BUY STOCK WHEN THE STOCK MARKET REOPENS AND HOLD IT. If everyone bought just one hundred shares we could make America's stockmarket soar. Many of those who died in the World Trade Center made their living financing the American dream. They created and traded stock in American companies. If you buy stock when the markets reopen you will show the terrorists that their attack failed to destroy America, you will help our economy spring back to life, and you will honor the profession of many who died. Please reproduce and distribute this message in its entirety to all e-mail addresses that you have. Contact radio talk show hosts and other media and ask them to support this event. These terrorists are anti-mind and thus anti-capitalism. Fight back by using your mind, exercising your freedom, and buying stock in America." (9/14/01)

LEE MRHA ('71)... Where was God? by: Lee A. Mrha. "Where was God when the WTC tragedy occurred? He was watching. Watching what? Watching lives being changed. Changed how? We get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life that we forget what is important, we forget what love is, we forget how to love. So, every once in a while a tragic event helps us to learn. To learn what? We learn what is really important in our lives, we learn to forget about ourselves and to give selfless hours of service to others. We learn what true love really is, the caring for others regardless of who they are. We learn that in the USA, even though we may be opinionated and easily provoked, we can pull together side by side as we try to help our fellow Americans get through a devastating tragedy. But why didn’t God intervene and stop all those people from dying? It’s only through opposition that things grow. A muscle can grow only when faced with opposition. A baby faces opposition when trying to walk. Children face opposition as they grow up and through that opposition, they become stronger. It’s all a part of the life cycle. It’s the same with grown men and women. We must have opposition to grow. And sometimes Nature, God, or whatever you want to call it gives us the opposition we need to grow a little more. Men and women grow best when faced with opposition. It’s the only way they can grow. So, where was God when this tragedy occurred? He was watching us cry for our fellow Americans, he was watching us grow, he was watching us once again learn what love is really all about." (9/13/01) Additional message: "#11...Spooky! The date of the attack: 9/11: 9+1+1= 11 / September 11th is the 254th day of the year: 2+5+4=11. / After September 11th there are 111 days left to the end of the year. / 119 is the area code to Iran/Iraq. 1+1+9= 11. / Twin Towers? standing side by side, looks like the number 11. / The first plane to hit the towers was Flight 11. / State of New York? The 11th State added to the Union. / New York City - 11 letters. / Afghanistan? 11 letters. / The Pentagon? 11 letters. / Ramzi Yousef? 11 letters (convicted for orchestrating the attack on the WTC in 1993). / Flight 11? 92 on board: 9+2= 11 / Flight 77 ? 65 on board: 6+5= 11 / George W. Bush - 11 letters."

ROSS RAYMOND ('69), KARIN WALTERS ('69), GARY (MAESTAS) ANTHONY ('69)... (Three very similar Nostradamus quatrains were sent in by these three people. They have been combined for ease of reading. These quatrains are open to varios translations and interpretation) "Something to think about. A quatrain written in the year 1654, by "The Man Who Saw Tomorrow" - Nostradamus. Just in case you were absorbing your thoughts and fears of what may occur, here, is a prediction from Nostrodamus. Throughout history, his cryptic writings have hit a couple of nails on the head. And, although open to debate, this one seems a little hard to disbelieve. "In the year of the new century and nine months, from the sky will come a great King of Terror. Two metal birds crash into two tall statues. The sky will burn at forty-five degrees; fire approaches the great new city. In the City of God ,there will be great thunder. Two brothers torn apart by chaos. While the fortress endures, the great leader will succumb. The third big war will begin when the city is burning. The world will end soon after."Scholars have taken these words written over 347 years ago and applied them to today's tragic events:1. The "new century and nine months" is: September 2001- this month! 2."from the sky will come a great King of Terror" and "two metal birds": the airplanes. 3."the sky will burn at forty-five degress" - New York City is located on.near the 45th parrallel/latitude 4."two tall statues" and "two brothers torn apart by chaos": the twin towers of the World Trade Center. 5."the two brothers": could also refer to the two terrorists who were brothers. 6."while the fortress endures": the Pentagon is hit by terrorists, yet, the majority of the structure survives and continues to operate. 7."the great leader will succumb": a three-star general was the highest ranking person killed in the Pentagon attack or it could mean Osama Bin Laden or President George W. Bush dies. 8. "when the city is burning. The world will end soon thereafter": you figure it out!!! (9/13/01)

KRIN BROOKS (former John Jay drama teacher)... "On Tuesday evening, one of the Catholic dignitaries on CNN suggested lighting candles as a sign of hope for our nation, and I immediately put two in my front windows and burned them, again, last night. Tomorrow evening, this is something we can all do whether we are at our homes or still in our offices. Prayers and a show of unity may be all some of us can do." (9/10/01)

CHARLES "BUBBA" ABEL ('70)... "I read this on a discussion forum I am a member of and I just had to share it with all of you. This says it all. Our motto here is "Don't mess with Texas," but for right now, we'll share it with everyone. "Don't mess with the USA." I didn't write this, but I could have...I think we all could, in light of the fact that we have 20,000 Americans dead in what? an hour? The body count in Viet Nam was 47,000 and that was over an 11 year period... An open letter to a terrorist: Well, you hit the World Trade Center, but you missed America. You hit the Pentagon, but you missed America. You used helpless American bodies, to take out other American bodies, but like a poor marksman, you STILL missed America. Why? Because of something you guys will never understand. America isn't about a building or two, not about financial centers, not about military centers, America isn't about a place, America isn't even about a bunch of bodies. America is about an IDEA. An idea, that you can go someplace where you can earn as much as you can figure out how to, live for the most part, like you envisioned living, and pursue Happiness. (No guarantees that you'll reach it, but you can sure try!) Go ahead and whine your terrorist whine, and chant your terrorist litany: "If you can not see my point, then feel my pain." This concept is alien to Americans. We live in a country where we don't have to see your point. But you're free to have one. We don't have to listen to your speech. But you're free to say one. Don't know where you got the strange idea that everyone has to agree with you. We don't agree with each other in this country, almost as a matter of pride. We're a collection of guys that don't agree, called States. We united our individual states to protect ourselves from tyranny in the world. Another idea, we made up on the spot. You CAN make it up as you go, when it's your country. If you're free enough. Yeah, we're fat, sloppy, easy-going goofs most of the time. That's an unfortunate image to project to the world, but it comes of feeling free and easy about the world you live in. It's unfortunate too, because people start to forget that when you attack Americans, they tend to fight like a cornered badger. The first we knew of the War of 1812, was when England burned Washington D.C. to the ground. Didn't turn out like England thought it was going to, and it's not going to turn out like you think, either. Sorry, but you're not the first bully on our shores, just the most recent. No Marquis of Queensbury rules for Americans, either. We were the FIRST and so far, only country in the world to use nuclear weapons in anger. Horrific idea, nowadays? News for you bucko, it was back then too, but we used it anyway. Only had two of them in the whole world and we used 'em both. Grandpa Jones worked on the Manhattan Project. Told me once, that right up until they threw the switch, the physicists were still arguing over whether the Uranium alone would fission, or whether it would start a fissioning chain reaction that would eat everything. But they threw the switch anyway, because we had a War to win. Does that tell you something about American Resolve? So who just declared War on us? It would be nice to point to some real estate, like the good old days. Unfortunately, we're probably at war with random camps, in far-flung places. Who think they're safe. Just like the Barbary Pirates did. Better start sleeping with one eye open. There's a spirit that tends to take over people who come to this country, looking for opportunity, looking for liberty, looking for freedom. Even if they misuse it. The Marielistas that Castro emptied out of his prisons, were overjoyed to find out how much freedom there was. First thing they did when they hit our shores, was run out and buy guns. The ones that didn't end up dead, ended up in prisons. It was a big PITA then (especially in south Florida), but you're only the newest PITA, not the first. You guys seem to be incapable of understanding that we don't live in America, America lives in US! American Spirit is what it's called. And killing a few thousand of us, or a few million of us, won't change it. Most of the time, it's a pretty happy-go-lucky kind of Spirit. Until we're crossed in a cowardly manner, then it becomes an entirely different kind of Spirit. Wait until you see what we do with that Spirit, this time. Sleep tight, if you can. We're coming." (9/13/01) Additional message: "Greetings fellow investors. Our collective hearts go out to those who have lost friends and loved ones in Tuesday\'s horrific tragedy. Nothing we can say here can possibly express the collective sorrow and outrage that all US citizens truly feel. We salute the SEC for having kept the markets closed. That was the RIGHT thing to do. We also congratulate the SEC for relaxing restrictions for Companies wishing to buy back their own stock. To those considering shorting stocks as soon as the markets re-open, thus contributing to what the Terrorists truly wanted--namely chaos in the financial markets of the CIVILIZED world--we say that you are scum! You are unpatriotic. And we believe that very likely you shorters may in fact be creating a wonderful opportunity for the rest of us to purchase those same stocks at bargain-basement prices as a result of your despicable actions. We hope you shorters lose your collective shirts and pants! If the predicted Patriotic Rally becomes reality, you might even lose your asses. Good! We hope you do! To any of you who subscribe to any religion which actively encourages its followers to kill innocent human beings for *your cause* whatever that cause just happens to be this week, we say that any such religion is NO religion at all. It is a CULT! If in fact Tuesday\'s despicable taking of human lives is proven to have been perpetrated by such religious fanatics, then we say those fanatics have no business being permitted to co-mingle with those of us who are part of a CIVILIZED society! And to those of you who might now in some form or fashion discriminate or cause harm to a foreigner simply because you *think* he is from the same country or region as that of these fanatics, we say--Back off! We cannot accuse someone simply because he appears to look like \"one of them.\" To do so would lower us to the disgusting standards of the fanatics themselves. Let President Bush do his job and let him do it in his own time. And to the rest of the world we say: We all have a golden opportunity now, whilst sentiment is at an apex, to eliminate terrorism and make the entire world a safer place. This UNCIVILIZED menace must be eliminated NOW. You are either with us or you are not. There is NO middle ground. Come help us now, or you will wish you had. To the Terrorists and to Terrorism in general, we say: You have awoken the Sleeping Giant! You punched us in the stomach. You hit us extremely hard. In return, we will annihilate you and forever eradicate terrorism from the face of this planet. You clearly won Round One. But when the fat lady sings, only one of us will be standing, and that one will NOT be you! The war hath begun. It will not be an easy war. It will not be a clean war. It will not be a short war. But when it\'s all over we will have choked off your very air supply. We will eliminate any possible haven in any state or country in the world. You will have no place to hide. No one will accept you. If it was your goal, by virtue of this horrific act, to garner our support for your cause, whatever cause that may have been, you have failed miserably. We will never support any cause you represent. You have galvanized the USA and all CIVILIZED countries against you and any cause you may have had. You did the unthinkable. We will respond with the unimaginable. Your days are numbered. The count began last Tuesday. When we are finished with you, terrorism will be no more in vogue than Poodle Skirts and Hula Hoops! You\'re finished Terrorism. Exit Stage left. That\'s the way to the morgue! The markets may take a temporary beating. But just as America and the free world will survive, so will our financial markets. Take stock in this country. God Bless America! DONATE MONEY: The American Red Cross has activated its Aviation Incident Response (AIR) Team to respond in New York City, and trained disaster workers from the American Red Cross of Greater New York and the National Capitol Chapter in Washington, D.C. are providing relief in the affected areas. You can make a donation through http://www.guidestar.org/partners/helping/index_ext.jsp?npoId=193856 To donate money to Red Cross relief efforts call 1-800-HELP-NOW. The Salvation Army will accept financial contributions through 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Donations are also being accepted on United Way of New York City\'s Web site: http://www.uwnyc.org. Donations are being accepted at Feed The Children. Your support is needed to enable us to respond quickly and efficiently. We try to keep supplies readily on hand to be prepared when disaster strikes: http://www16.secure-website.net/~ftcweb/secure_donation.html or call the hotline which has been set up for donations at 1-800-525-7575. The United Way of New York and the New York Community Trust have established a fund to help the victims of the attacks and their families. The September Eleventh Fund will provide immediate support to established emergency assistance agencies. Anyone wishing to contribute may send their donations in care of United Way, 2 Park Ave, New York, New York, 10016 or call 1-212-251-4035. The National Organization for Victim Assistance is a private, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization of victim and witness assistance programs and practitioners, criminal justice agencies and professionals, mental health professionals, researchers, former victims and survivors, and others committed to victims rights and services. Visit The National Organization for Victim Assistance at: http://www.guidestar.org/partners/helping/index_ext.jsp?npoId=357764Catholic Charities USA is the nation's largest private network of people helping people. The 1,400 local agencies and institutions provide social services across the country to more than 10 million people in need each year. http://www.guidestar.org/partners/helping/index_ext.jsp?npoId=25511 To make donations to the Widows & Children's Fund send checks to: Widows & Children\'s Fund C/O Uniformed Firefighter's Association, 204 East 23rd Street, NY, NY 10010 or call the UFA office at 212-683-4832..... Animal lovers, please go here: http://www.peta.org/aplink.html

WILLIAM "BILL" NABORS ('69)... Sent in a 'Letter to the Editor' that was written by Charles Brennan, an 18 year old student in south Florida- "An open letter to a terrorist: Well, you hit the World Trade Center, but you missed America. You hit the Pentagon, but you missed America. You used helpless American bodies, to take out other American bodies, but like a poor marksman, you STILL missed America. Why? Because of something you guys will never understand. America isn’t about a building or two, not about financial centers, not about military centers, America isn’t about a place, America isn’t even about a bunch of bodies. America is about an IDEA. An idea, that you can go someplace where you can earn as much as you can figure out how to, live for the most part, like you envisioned living, and pursue Happiness. (No guarantees that you’ll reach it, but you can sure try!) Go ahead and whine your terrorist whine, and chant your terrorist litany: “If you can not see my point, then feel my pain.” This concept is alien to Americans. We live in a country where we don’t have to see your point. But you’re free to have one. We don’t have to listen to your speech. But you’re free to say one. Don’t know where you got the strange idea that everyone has to agree with you. We don’t agree with each other in this country, almost as a matter of pride. We’re a collection of guys that don’t agree, called States. We united our individual states to protect ourselves from tyranny in the world. Another idea, we made up on the spot. You CAN make it up as you go, when it’s your country. If you’re free enough. Yeah, we’re fat, sloppy, easy-going goofs most of the time. That’s an unfortunate image to project to the world, but it comes of feeling free and easy about the world you live in. It’s unfortunate too, because people start to forget that when you attack Americans, they tend to fight like cornered badgers. The first we knew of the War of 1812, was when England burned Washington D.C. to the ground. Didn’t turn out like England thought it was going to, and it’s not going to turn out like you think, either. Sorry, but you’re not the first bully on our shores, just the most recent. No Marquis of Queensbury rules for Americans, either. We were the FIRST and so far, only country in the world to use nuclear weapons in anger. Horrific idea, nowadays? News for you bucko, it was back then too, but we used it anyway. Only had two of them in the whole world and we used ‘em both. Grandpa Jones worked on the Manhattan Project. Told me once, that right up until they threw the switch, the physicists were still arguing over whether the Uranium alone would fission, or whether it would start a fissioning chain reaction that would eat everything. But they threw the switch anyway, because we had a War to win. Does that tell you something about American Resolve? So who just declared War on us? It would be nice to point to some real estate, like the good old days. Unfortunately, we’re probably at war with random camps, in far-flung places. Who think they’re safe. Just like the Barbary Pirates did, IIRC. Better start sleeping with one eye open. There’s a spirit that tends to take over people who come to this country, looking for opportunity, looking for liberty, looking for freedom. Even if they misuse it. The Marielistas that Castro emptied out of his prisons, were overjoyed to find out how much freedom there was. First thing they did when they hit our shores, was run out and buy guns. The ones that didn’t end up dead, ended up in prisons. It was a big PITA then (especially in south Florida), but you’re only the newest PITA, not the first. You guys seem to be incapable of understanding that we don’t live in America, America lives in US! American Spirit is what it’s called. And killing a few thousand of us, or a few million of us, won’t change it. Most of the time, it’s a pretty happy-go-lucky kind of Spirit. Until we’re crossed in a cowardly manner, then it becomes an entirely different kind of Spirit. Wait until you see what we do with that Spirit, this time. Sleep tight, if you can. We’re coming...ttfn." (9/13/01)

BECKIE (AUSTIN) BAYER ('75)... "Bob, Thank you for sending this picture. This is the true American Spirit. I am lost for words. This helps express the sorrow of our counrty. God Bless You." (9/13/01)

CHARLES "CHUCK" CHUCK ('71), BOOTH DEBBIE (PITTMAN) KAINER ('73)... "FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, is "Flags Across America." All Americans are asked to display the American flag either in their homes or cars. Let's keep the meaning of UNITED in "United States". Pass this onto as many people as you know. THANK YOU." (9/13/01)

VALERIE (BRASSFIELD) HATHAWAY ('73)... "Dennis, I would like to share this tribute with my old friends and family! Click on this link and wait for the music to play: A Tribute to the Victims and Families ....Also, sign and view the guest book, it's very neat to see all the support from so many places." (9/13/01)

CYNTHIA (ELKINS) BLACK ('71), BRENDA STOUT ('71), KAY (COMPTON) REDBURN ('71), and WARREN WHITAKER ('70), JEANNE DICKSON ('71)... A news article by Leonard Pitts, Jr. a syndicated columnist... "They pay me to tease shades of meaning from social and cultural issues, to provide words that help make sense of that which troubles the American soul. But in this moment of airless shock when hot tears sting disbelieving eyes, the only thing I can find to say, the only words that seem to fit, must be addressed to the unknown author of this suffering. You monster. You beast. You unspeakable bastard. What lesson did you hope to teach us by your coward's attack on our World Trade Center, our Pentagon, on us? What was it you hoped we would learn? Whatever it was, please know that you failed. Did you want us to respect your cause? You just damned your cause. Did you want to make us fear? You just steeled our resolve. Did you want to tear us apart? You just brought us together. Let me tell you about my people. We are a vast and quarrelsome family, a family rent by racial, cultural, political and class division, but a family nonetheless. We're frivolous, yes, capable of expending tremendous emotional energy on pop cultural minutiae, a singer's revealing dress, a ball team's misfortune, a cartoon mouse. We're wealthy, too, spoiled by the ready availability of trinkets and material goods, and maybe because of that, we walk through life with a certain sense of blithe entitlement. We are fundamentally decent, though - peace-loving and compassionate. We struggle to know the right thing and to do it. And we are, the overwhelming majority of us, people of faith, believers in a just and loving God. Some people - you, perhaps - think that any or all of this makes us weak. You're mistaken. We are not weak. Indeed, we are strong in ways that cannot be measured by arsenals. Yes, we're in pain now. We are in mourning and we are in shock. We're still grappling with the unreality of the awful thing you did, still working to make ourselves understand that this isn't a special effect from some Hollywood blockbuster, isn't the plot development from a Tom Clancy novel. Both in terms of the awful scope of its ambition and the probable final death toll, your attacks are likely to go down as the worst acts of terrorism in the history of the United States and, indeed, the history of the world. You've bloodied us as we have never been bloodied before. But there's a gulf of difference between making us bloody and making us fall. This is the lesson Japan was taught to its bitter sorrow the last time anyone hit us this hard, the last time anyone brought us such abrupt and monumental pain. When roused, we are righteous in our outrage, terrible in our force. When provoked by this level of barbarism, we will bear any suffering, pay any cost, go to any length, in the pursuit of justice. I tell you this without fear of contradiction. I know my people, as you, I think, do not. What I know reassures me. It also causes me to tremble with dread of the future. In days to come, there will be recrimination and accusation, fingers pointing to determine whose failure allowed this to happen and what can be done to prevent it from happening again. There will be heightened security, misguided talk of revoking basic freedoms. We'll go forward from this moment sobered, chastened, sad. But determined, too. Unimaginably determined. You see, there is steel beneath this velvet. That aspect of our character is seldom understood by people who don't know us well. On this day, the family's bickering is put on hold. As Americans we will weep, as Americans we will mourn, and as Americans, we will rise in defense of all that we cherish. Still, I keep wondering what it was you hoped to teach us. It occurs to me that maybe you just wanted us to know the depths of your hatred. If that's the case, consider the message received. And take this message in exchange: You don't know my people. You don't know what we're about. You don't know what you just started, but you're about to learn." (9/13/01)

JACQUELINE DAVIS ('71)... "Americans Show Unity Against Terrorism -- Friday, September 14th Friday Night at 7:00 p.m. step out your door, stop your car, or step out of your establishment and light a candle. We will show the world that Americans are strong and united together against terrorism. Please pass this to everyone on your e-mail list. We need to reach everyone across the United States quickly. The message: WE STAND UNITED - WE WILL NOT TOLERATE TERRORISM!" (9/13/01)

EILEEN (YOUNG) WELLNICKI ('71)... "Dear Dennis and All...The last couple of horrendous days have been so choppy here in the Rio Grande Valley....trying to follow the news....trying to work......trying to maintain stability for my children.... All the while, I am back to being 10 years old on a high security Strategic Air Command Base in Canada during the Cuban Missile Crisis wearing my dogtags and knowing full well what that meant. I try to explain to my kids.... and to my co-workers... many life long civilians and Valley residents...... what the logical repercussions are of Tuesday's events....and not wanting to go there myself. I try to explain the mindset of those who took control of the aircraft intent on destruction at the cost of their own lives....even though it is beyond my comprehension. I marvel at the detail of the planning which had to have taken years.....and wonder at such evil. I talk with my international internet friends.... many are in Canada and the UK.....and point out that the concept of "nuke 'em till they glow" ( recommended as a course of action by more than one person) must be put aside (no matter how much instant gratification) until the international intelliegence agencies working together can determine responsibilty beyond a doubt and then deal with Them and the governments behind Them. Our leaders are using the term "act of war" and I feel we are at war.....with someone.... I point out that the buidlings attacked are on US soil, but that among the targets is the World Trade Center.....this was not just an attack on the US, but an attack on the WORLD. The two towers housed international businesses and financial institutions from all over the WORLD. As I try to explain it all to them.....I look for the answers myself.......Just heard from one of my chat friends from Brooklyn , New York.....he has seen himself on the television video over and over again as he runs away from the collapse of the first tower....as if he needs a videotape to remind him.....he was in his office on the 26th floor of the first tower when the first plane hit. He has not slept....he can't close his eyes without seeing everything again. He says he will be sitting quietly, then become aware of rhythmic pounding. After a few minutes...he realizes that it is his heart beating. He says he is okay, but admits he will never ever be okay again. On a personal note....we are leaving Brownsville in two weeks and moving to Georgetown (the one in TEXAS, not DC.....someone asked me earlier about that). My email will stay the same.....good to have at least one constant in my life LOL.... I have two children at home, ages 10 and 8.....when I told them that were definitely going to be moving...my 8 year old daughter said in a very shaky, tiny voice...."What if they don't like Americans there?" It took 30 minutes of reminding her about the McDonald's we always stop at on I-35...and grandparents in San Antonio and Temple and showing her the Rand McNally. Think I finally convinced her that Georgetown is in Texas....part of the US.... and yes, they do like Americans there. Sorry if I have rambled all over with this....tried to wait to write anything until I felt I could say something that made sense.....but right now so very little seems to make sense." (9/13/01)

ROCKY PFEFFER ('71)... "Dennis, I had gone to New York on Saturday on one of those Internet weekend special fares, and had set up a quick business meeting with some clients on Monday downtown. Tuesday morning I was at the Newark airport on the way back to Houston. The Continental 767 pushed away from the gate at 8:00 am, we waited on the runway for takeoff which happened at 8:45. As we are lifting off I am looking out the window and the first tower is on fire. I just thought it was on fire, two hours later we diverted to Atlanta. They would not tell us anything on the plane just we were going to Atlanta. Called my house as soon as we touched down and found out from my frantic wife what had happened. Then they closed the airport and it was a madhouse. Discovered from my friends at Continental they did not even tell the flight crews why they were landing just get it down. Having been around the Military all my life and believing offense is the best defense, maybe now the do nothing politicians will get on board and we can do what needs to be done to protect our interest world wide. From Atlanta, my best to all." (9/12/01)

WARREN WHITAKER ('70)... "This was forwarded to me. Please take the meaning to heart and pass it on. To show those terrorists that we Americans stick together, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 is "Flags Across America." All Americans are asked to display the American flag either in their homes or cars. Let's keep the meaning of UNITED in "United States". Pass this onto as many people as you know. THANK YOU." (9/12/01) Additonal message (9/20/01): NOW that the President has called us to pray...NOW that the Congress has called us to pray...NOW that our Governor has called us to pray... NOW that the City Mayor has called us to pray...NOW that the "liberal" media and most other branches of our American society have called us to pray... AND NOW that our churches are assembling in special prayer... "Honorable" Justices of the Supreme Court, I have only one question...Would it be okay to pray in our schools??? I would have to agree the answer to this question would be yes. I wonder how many people this can reach and see how many of the "right" people it would reach so something can be done to change current policy!!

COACH RON LUNA (former John Jay H.S. coach)... "TRIBUTE TO THE UNITED STATES' This, from Gordon Sinclair in a Canadian newspaper, is worth sharing. America: The Good Neighbor. "This Canadian thinks it is time to speak up for the Americans as the most generous and possibly the least appreciated people on all the earth. Germany, Japan and, to a lesser extent, Britain and Italy were lifted out of the debris of war by the Americans who poured in billions of dollars and forgave other billions in debts. None of these countries is today paying even the interest on its remaining debts to the United States. When France was in danger of collapsing in 1956, it was the Americans who propped it up, and their reward was to be insulted and swindled on the streets of Paris. I was there. I saw it. When earthquakes hit distant cities, it is the United States that hurries in to help. This spring, 59 American communities were flattened by tornadoes. Nobody helped. The Marshall Plan and the Truman Policy pumped billions of dollars into discouraged countries. Now newspapers in those countries are writing about the decadent, warmongering Americans. I'd like to see just one of those countries that is gloating over the erosion of the United States dollar build its own airplane. Does any other country in the world have a plane to equal the Boeing Jumbo Jet, the Lockheed Tri-Star, or the Douglas DC10? If so, why don't they fly them? Why do all the International lines except Russia fly American Planes? Why does no other land on earth even consider putting a man or woman on the moon? You talk about Japanese technocracy, and you get radios. You talk about German technocracy, and you get automobiles. You talk about American technocracy, and you find men on the moon - not once, but several times - and safely home again. You talk about scandals, and the Americans put theirs right in the store window for everybody to look at. Even their draft-dodgers are not pursued and hounded. They are here on our streets, and most of them, unless they are breaking Canadian laws, are getting American dollars from ma and pa at home to spend here. When the railways of France, Germany and India were breaking down through age, it was the Americans who rebuilt them. When the Pennsylvania Railroad and the New York Central went broke, nobody loaned them an old caboose. Both are still broke. I can name you 5000 times when the Americans raced to the help of other people in trouble. Can you name me even one time when someone else raced to the Americans in trouble? I don't think there was outside help even during the San Francisco earthquake. Our neighbors have faced it alone, and I'm one Canadian who is damned tired of hearing them get kicked around. They will come out of this thing with their flag high. And when they do, they are entitled to thumb their nose at the lands that are gloating over their present troubles. I hope Canada is not one of those." Stand proud, America! Wear it proudly!! This is one of the best editorials that I have ever read regarding the United States. It is nice that one man realizes it. I only wish that the rest of the world would realize it. We are always blamed for everything, and never even get a thank you for the things we do. I would hope that each of you would send this to as many people as you can and emphasize that they should send it to as many of their friends until this letter is sent to every person on the web. I am just a single American that has read this, TRIBUTE TO THE UNITED STATES." (9/12/01)

LEELAND BEAVERS ('71)... "Thanks Dennis, for the info. My drive to work in Dallas from Carrollton felt a little different today. Commuters drove a little slower, there were no cars trying to cut in front of people, the normal morning aggressive driving was replaced with consideration and respect. It felt as if we'd all gone through something horrible and we're pulling together for shared strength. Which is exactly what happened and what we have to do if we're going to get through this terrible event. God bless America" (9/12/01)

LYDIA "TOY" KELLY ('71)... "What a reality check yesterday was. Someone mentioned to me last night that if President Bush had a Texan Attitude like I present the United States will be just fine. I took that as a compliment. I think there are some mindsets within different areas of the US that are more passive than we Texans(oops...I've been gone awhile...I wonder if it's still true). I don't believe a passive attitude toward these terrorists is appropriate. I want my 15 year old daughter to be safe when she's 48. And sssssssshhhhhhhhisssssssssssshhhhhh are people in a panic and standing in lines for gas......I want to slap them." (9/12/01)

TARYN (HOUGH) BROOKS ('72)... "Dear Dennis, This tragedy has left me numb. It brings back so many memories of the Oklahoma City bombing and what we went through during the days and weeks and months to follow. The sorrow and pain is all too familiar. Our loss here was minute compared to thousands lost yesterday, though our prayers for those affected no different. My heart is so sad for those lost, their families and friends, and I pray that those still in the buildings be rescued. We all must unite in prayer - pray that the Lord will give our nation strength and that He will join our hearts as one all across this great nation, and that He will bring to justice those responsible for this attack on innocent Americans. Dennis, thank you for all you do. You are loved. In Christ." (9/12/01)

LINDA GAIL GOODPASTER ('71)... "My heart is heavy this morning! I'm sure by now you have heard of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. As Christians, as citizens of the United States we need to get on our knees and pray for our Nation today as we should always do. Please join me and start a chain of Prayer and send this to everyone you know. Only our God knows what is next to come. And I pray that He will guard us with His hedge of protection and that we search for His Holy guidance and obey Him. Please also remember the families of the victim's of this unbelievable tragedy. Pray that our leaders will make their decisions by turning to God first before their actions. May God bless each and everyone of us. Amen." (9/12/01) Additional message (9/13/01):"Americans Show Unity Against Terrorism -- Friday, September 14th Friday Night at 7:00 p.m. step out your door, stop your car, or step out of your establishment and light a candle. We will show the world that Americans are strong and united together against terrorism. Please pass this to everyone on your e-mail list. We need to reach everyone across the United States quickly. The message: WE STAND UNITED - WE WILL NOT TOLERATE TERRORISM!"

JEANNE DICKSON ('71)... "Hi Dennis, I live on the east coast and my husband was working a few city blocks from the Pentagon when the plane hit. He works at the United States Patent and Trademark Agency- which is almost all skyscrapers. He was sent home, however, with all the roads closed they were trapped in the basement parking garage- some people desperately circling with their cars and some walking, leaving their cars. He and some others decided it was safer to stay in the garage until the roads allowed them to leave. They had also received a erroneous report that a second plane would hit the Pentagon again in two minutes. You can imagine they were rather concerned that the carnage would just keep continuing. Thankfully, he is now home having arrived late last night. Having lived in the Fairfax Area for fifteen years before moving to Ocean City MD and having been a paid full-time firefighter in Fairfax County on the border of Arlington Co for five of them, this is very close to home. I have friends who are currently working in the ruble at the Pentagon and who are dispatched to New York (the Cave-In Team) to find, hopefully, live people as well as bodies. The Fairfax County Cave-In Team has previously been dispatched to Oklahoma, Turkey (earthquake) and other locations as needed in the past. While this is their job, it is a terrible tragedy to have them sent to our own country for an true act of war on our own continent. If I were still working as a firefighter I would be working at the Pentagon in Arlington County as well, as it was my second due, which in firefighting talk means I would go to a call if a second alarm was called. All the firefighters and their families will be forever marked by this tragedy, please pray for them. The loss of 200 firefighters and (as of last night 150?) policemen is beyond comprehension. The loss of the those rescuers coupled with the people in the buildings and planes is profoundly sorrowful. I can only believe it was planned that way- to get as many rescuers as possible. It is important that while, yes, we need to think rationally and act with love, we also need to be realistic. This tragedy was coldly and thoroughly planned to get as many innocent lives as possible. We need to be very, very thorough in eradicating the evil that caused it, regardless of the possible collateral. These people have no intention of stopping the carnage and it will happen again. The level of ability they have shown to destroy large amounts of communities will continue. They must be stopped at all costs! This battle truly is a battle of freedom against evil no less than the battle we had to create this country. We must be just as committed as our forefathers to maintain the democracy that started in the world when our forefathers were able to recognize the beauty of the human spirit and give it a place to grow and develop without the oppression of power-hungry overlords and kings. Here we have had major human rights for the first time in history as a part of government contract, including freedom of religion. Therefore, we have grown into the largest and most powerful country with more human rights than any other country in the world. Many thousands if not millions of people risk life and limb to come here to escape the type of government that we witnessed yesterday.It is not an accident. Let us not forget the need we have to protect this oasis. My father-in-law (who lives with us and is 95) escaped from the Russian Communists in Lithuania as they moved into his country forty years ago. Millions of deaths later Communism is no longer the military threat it was but not before the massacre of as many million lives throughout Europe as possible. Some Lithuanians did not realize how badly they would be treated and allowed the Communists to take hold of the government without a fight. Their country will never be the same, the entire landscape was razed, the language changed, the landmarks destroyed, all scholars, teachers and thinkers sent to Siberia to die or killed outright. The current generation does not know how to work or plan to survive-all in forty or fifty years. The United States underestimated the threat of the Nazis before entering into the war. I understand that this is different, however, we need not to be blind to the intent of the destruction of our country and democracy by whoever did this. Terrorism is not just a general name to a faceless occasional tragedy. It is a evil that has people and organization behind it regardless of the country it is from. Jim Nuanes recently retired from the Pentagon. My thoughts go out to him, I am sure he has lost friends and colleagues. May all of you be comforted I pray. Love, Jeanne " (9/12/01) Jeanne has a friend named, Patti, whose husband, Chris, is on the scene at the Pentagon. Jeanne shares an e-mail that she received... "Friends & family, As most of you know, Chris got sent to the Pentagon, yesterday, as part of the FEMA/Fairfax rescue team. He has been there about 24 hours now. They are staying at a nearby Naval base for some rest and will be back at the Pentagon soon. They recovered about 14 bodies from inside the perimeters of the Pentagon and they don't believe there could be any more survivors because of the intense heat. There is still a possibility that they will be sent to NY, since there mission there is probably finished. There will be a conference call tonight for the families and I might know something later. Although they don't tell us much except that our loved ones are doing ok. For the life of me I don't know why but they are sleeping on the wooden floor of the Naval base. All those empty hotels downtown, 1/2 hour away from their own firestations and they are on the floor! Anyway he is fine, tired (and sick too) but ready to do what needs to be done. He will be on the night shift from now on, which is probably the hardest. Mike and I are fine, our job begins when Chris gets home. Prayers to all that have been affected." (9/13/01) Jeanne has received another e-mail from a firend that express a much different point of view. It bears reading..."Dennis, I received this from my daughter (who recieved it from someone else) yesterday. Assuming the forward has some truth to it, it is interesting to hear another point of view. I am sure that the people who protect and defend this country have alot to consider as we fight this war. Jeanne... Hello everyone, The following was posted here by a co-worker on our company's internal email/internet. It comes from a friend, Tamim, a writer and columnist in San Francisco. Incidentally, Tamim is originally from Afghanistan. It is a very well thought-out, rational and thought provoking commentary. In light of Tuesday's tragedy and the unthinkable idea of what is yet to come, I thought I should share this with as many people as possible.... I've been hearing a lot of talk about "bombing Afghanistan back to the Stone Age." Ronn Owens, on KGO Talk Radio today, allowed that this would mean killing innocent people, people who had nothing to do with this atrocity, but "we're at war, we have to accept collateral damage. What else can we do?" Minutes later I heard some TV pundit discussing whether we "have the belly to do what must be done." And I thought about the issues being raised especially hard because I am from Afghanistan, and even though I've lived here for 35 years I've never lost track of what's going on there. So I want to tell anyone who will listen how it all looks from where I'm standing. I speak as one who deeply hates the Taliban and Osama Bin Laden. My hatred comes from first hand experience. There is no doubt in my mind that these people were responsible for the atrocity in New York. I agree that something must be done about those monsters. But the Taliban and Bin Laden are NOT Afghanistan. They're not even the government of Afghanistan. The Taliban are a cult of ignorant psychotics who took over Afghanistan in 1997. Bin Laden is a political criminal with a plan. When you think Taliban, think Nazis. When you think Bin Laden,think Hitler. And when you think "the people of Afghanistan" think "the Jews in the concentration camps." It's not only that the Afghan people had nothing to do with this atrocity. They were the first victims of the perpetrators. They would exult if someone would come in there, take out the Taliban and clear out the rats nest of international thugs holed up in their country. Some say, why don't the Afghans rise up and overthrow the Taliban? The answer is, they're starved, exhausted, hurt, incapacitated, suffering. A few years ago, the United Nations estimated that there are 500,000 disabled orphans in Afghanistan-a country with no economy, no food. There are millions of widows. And the Taliban has been burying these widows alive in mass graves. The soil is littered with land mines, the farms were all destroyed by the Soviets. These are a few of the reasons why the Afghan people have not overthrown the Taliban. We come now to the question of "bombing Afghanistan back to the Stone Age". Trouble is, that's been done. The Soviets took care of it already. Make the Afghans suffer? They're already suffering. Level their houses? Done. Turn their schools into piles of rubble? Done. Eradicate their hospitals? Done. Destroy their infrastructure? Cut them off from medicine and health care? Too late. Someone already did all that. New bombs would only stir the rubble of earlier bombs. Would they at least get the Taliban? Not likely. In today's Afghanistan, only the Taliban eat, only they have the means to move around. They'd slip away and hide. Maybe the bombs would get some of those disabled orphans, they don't move too fast, they don't even have wheelchairs. But flying over Kabul and dropping bombs would not really be a strike against the criminals who did this horrific thing. Actually it would only be making common cause with the Taliban-by raping once again the people they've been raping all this time. So what else is there? What can be done, then? Let me now speak with true fear and trembling. The only way to get Bin Laden is to go in there with ground troops. When people speak of "having the belly to do what needs to be done" they're thinking in terms of having the belly to kill as many as needed. Having the belly to overcome any moral qualms about killing innocent people. Let's pull our heads out of the sand. What's actually on the table is Americans dying. And not just because some Americans would die fighting their way through Afghanistan to Bin Laden's hideout. It's much bigger than that folks. Because to get any troops to Afghanistan, we'd have to go through Pakistan. Would they let us? Not likely. The conquest of Pakistan would have to be first. Will other Muslim nations just stand by? You see where I'm going. We're flirting with a world war between Islam and the West. And guess what: that's Bin Laden's program. That's exactly what he wants. That's why he did this. Read his speeches and statements. It's all right there. He really believes Islam would beat the west. It might seem ridiculous, but he figures if he can polarize the world into Islam and the West, he's got a billion soldiers. If the west wreaks a holocaust in those lands, that's a billion people with nothing left to lose, that's even better from Bin Laden's point of view. He's probably wrong, in the end the West would win, whatever that would mean, but the war would last for years and millions would die, not just theirs but ours. Who has the belly for that? Unfortunately, Bin Laden does. Anyone else? In Peace, Tamim Ansary. By the way Dennis. Thanks for the effort and passion you put into this website. I know people thank you all the time but gratitude is never given too often. I appreciated a forum to express my views when I felt so strongly, especially with those who grew up around the Vietnam War as military brats- as we mostly did. It is comforting to have those of my childhood and teen years to relate to at this time. Jeanne (9/14/01)

MARY (McCOLLUM) VANCE ('73)... "Thank You Dennis! I would like to say Prayer is one of the most important things to do and may the Holy Spirit come upon the people who don't know Jesus Christ as their personnel Savior. God Bless everyone and God Bless America!!!!" (9/12/01)

SANDY (PARRISH) TUBB ('73)... "GOD BLESS AMERICA AND ALL THE PEOPLE WHO ARE IN PERIL RIGHT NOW AND YESTERDAY. Bless those who have lost love ones or who don't know where their love ones are. I fortunately have all my love ones close and have the knowledge of their immediate safety. Thank you Lord for that blessing and keep us all in your embrace. As you know Dennis, I work for the IRS and yesterday they evacuated us about one hour after the first plane hit. I was grateful that they did that, not for my safety but the fact that I needed to go and find my son and be with him to feel some inner peace. It is at times like this that we find that the trivial problems we have in life to be just that, trivial. I wanted to join everyone in praying for America AND to say GOD BLESS US ALL now and in the uncertain future." (9/12/01)

DIANE CATANZARO ('73)... "Dennis, I forgot to check my email yesterday. I was so glad to hear you were still keeping us all in touch. My heart, my prayers and my energy go out to the families who have lost so much. My first thought was, "I can't donate blood yet, it's been less than eight weeks." Please, encourage everyone you know who can, to donate to either the American Red Cross or to your local blood center. When someone needs blood, there is nothing else that will work. This is absolutely the least expensive donation you can make to any charity, with the added benefit that it will almost certainly save lives. It is times of terrible tragedy that bring out the best in people and our local blood center is so busy, they have requested people make appointments so they may handle the volume. Donors in the Dallas/Fort Worth area waited in line for hours yesterday to donate blood. We all felt so helpless and yet, those people were able to know they had done something. Their donation might not ever see New York or Washington, D.C. but it may nevertheless save a life in memory of a victim who was not so fortunate. For years my car sported the bumber sticker "HURTS A LITTLE, HELPS A LOT." I truly believe this in my heart. Over the years since we were at Jay, I have donated almost 6 gallons of blood, and I am prouder of that than almost anything else I have ever accomplished in my life. Ray, I'm praying for you and the families of the friends you lost. I thank Cathy Bacon's mother profusely for assuring us of her safety. May God bless us and keep us safe." (9/12/01)

RAY WHITWORTH ('73)... "Dennis: As you can imagine this is a day that can not and shall not be forgotten. I was called into service at 7:30am to get to the network to fill in for a co-worker. We had to work closely with ABC, and over 5, 000 stations from across the country. The phone was a constant ring, 16 monitors of audio from different sections of the country blaring in our ears. The human side: We are sad to report the loss of a few of our members of the network. Four were on American Ailrines Flight #11 The others in the New york studio located on the 87th floor of the the North Tower of the trade center. A bulletin went out at 7:47 a.m. EDT of the first plane, a live audio was sent, in the transmission a few minutes later ...a scream.... "MY GOD NO!"..You can imagine a room full of 23 people suddenly hushed, no sound. In Dallas, as we heard our colleagues in New York.... no longer. The second plane struck. Shock does not describe what raced through us, no words can. The tape was replayed, we decided we could not air it, not because it was a horrible sound but out of respect by those we had known and worked beside. I will never forget what I heard, but the still silence afterwards was louder. As you know, Dennis, in broadcasting we are just as human, as anyone else. We cry as anyone else. The tears had to be put on the shelf, we had a job to do, to report, to calm a nation, to get the facts, to show freedom in our country cannot die, and free speech and freedom of the press is among things of what we are. So, when one calls it the "liberal media" or "media", take into consideration we are people too, and we try to do our best to be fair no matter our individual thoughts or philosophies. We report, whether we like to or not about events. We inform and we try at times to heal a nation. Today I lost some friends, others lost friends and love ones. Today, we stand UNITED to punish those who inflicted this horror on us. I was working non-stop 13 hours, no bathroom break or to eat.. I am not hungry, I checked my e-mail for words from those I knew, some let me know they were ok, others...." (9/11/01) Tonight, September 12th, the day after the terrorist attack, I have received this additional e-mail from Ray, who is in the radio business with a station in Dallas. I believe it is WFAA, but, I'm not sure. The views that Ray expresses in this e-mail are his alone. Here is his e-mail... "Dennis: "I don't want to hog my sharing in this time of grief, so this will be my last for awhile. Please pass on to all Mustangs to not watch FOX News Network or their affiliates. I say this with true objectivity as a reporter. Fox has "tabloid" this heinous crime to increase viewership. In the past 36 hours, alone, their sources and their stories have proven to be more hype and speculation and NO FACT. They believe in the "sensationalism" of selling a steak , more "sizzle". The networks that have been very careful in reporting have been ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, Salem Broadcasting, and the Associated Press. I ask all who look to FOX for news to look at the aforementioned networks ( not FOX) FOR TRUTH WITH NO HYPE. They started the Gas HIKE STORY AND VIDEO OF INDEPENDENT OPERATORS CHARGING $8.00 A GALLON IN OKLAHOMA ( THEY SINCE HAVE BEEN BUSTED) Gas is plentiful and prices are normal!! All our network operations have been shifted to Dallas for decisions but split between Dallas and Washington DC. We are sleeping in shifts. We hate stories like this like everyone else, we don't care if we become a star, we care in getting the truth and facts out , and doing the job the best way we have with what we have.. I have seen alot of courage in my profession, this goes beyond what I have seen. I have lost 14 colleagues, the number will climb I know. I honor their memory in doing the job they would do. Report the story, stick to the facts, and Thank God for our country that allows the many freedoms we all too often take for granite, and thank GOD for blessing me to be an American. Again, please do not watch FOX. As we say in the "business" Dennis , more will be reported here when it is warranted." (9/12/01) Added note: My son is enlisting this week, in the Marines, his sister is completing boot camp in a week. She is also in the Marines. (9/16/01)

DONNA (STEPHENS) WEISS ('70)... "Dennis.... I'm so glad to hear that Cathy Bacon was not in the line of fire, this time. Thank you for posting her information for all of us. Let's just hope we don't get bad news when the dust settles around New York. As you are aware, my son and his family relcoated to New Jersey, actually in Somerset County, New Jersey! They called this afternoon to say that Johnson & Johnson closed their offices today and sent everyone home to be with their own families. They also closed their daycare, as well, where my grandchildren attend. Scott said he was glad to be home and huddle with his family as they watched these tragic events unfold. However, he said they plan to resume life and business as usual tomorrow. He said there was a huge run on gas stations and grocery stores in the area. He said it reminded him of living in Corpus Christi and preparing for a hurricane! Instead, New Jersey was under a "state of emergency" today. We must be thankful for the small blessings of everyday life! I am. Take care, Dennis. Love Donna." (9/11/01)

KAY (COMPTON) REDBURN ('71)... "Dennis: It has taken me all day to be able to begin to deal with the tragedy that has befallen our country. The postings of our classmates are eloquent and heartfelt. We are truly "one Nation, under God, indivisible". But one lesson among many that we need to take from today is that we never know what tomorrow may hold for any of us, and we should never pass up an opportunity to tell the important people in our lives how we feel about them. I hope every person who perished today heard an "I love you" from someone in their lives before theirs were so tragically ended. Let me take this opportunity to tell you that you are a very special person in my life, Dennis. I treasure you as a good and dear friend. And because of you, I've been able to rekindle old friendships and make new ones that I will carry with me for the rest of my days. There is nothing as valuable as the relationships we carry with us in our hearts -- our relationship with God, with a love interest, our children, our relatives, and our friends. Only time will tell what the full effect of this monumental tragedy will be on the lives of Americans -- but at the very least, let it serve as a reminder to hold close those dear to you, and let them know the place they have in your life. God bless and keep you, and every person who reads this." (9/11/01) Update: I just wanted to thank you for posting everyone's thoughts about the national tragedy - it has really helped me to read what my friends are thinking and feeling right now. I need to feel connected to people who care and you are helping me by making it possible to read everyone's e-mails. (9/16/01)

CINDY BACON ('70)... "Dennis, First of all I want to thank you, again, for maintaining this website. I had spent all day wondering about Cathy and trying to find out if she was okay. Finally, I think to check my email and my prayers were answered in the e-mail you sent out. I can't find words to describe how the attack on American soil has affected me. Right now I just want to pray for the victims, the survivors, and their families. I'm grateful for the knowledge that Cathy is okay and I'm fortunate to be able to breathe a sigh of relief, at least for now. Take care and God Bless America!" (9/11/01)

MANFRED "MANNY" HILL ('69)... "The time to talk about terrorism is over!! Now is the time to react and do something about it. Join hands,if only in thought, and pray for the souls of those we lost and pray twice for the familys they left behind for there lives will never be the same." (9/11/01)

LINDA (SCHNEIDER) AIKEN ('71)... "Dennis - Thanks for the update, and all you are doing. We are on Threat Com Delta all across Europe. Basically, a 'locked down' status; everything closed, no one outside until ? Be safe." (9/11/01) Additonal message: "Airport Insecurity? And Why Manhood Cures Terrorism By Duncan Maxwell Anderson FrontPageMagazine.com | September 14, 2001. THE TERRORIST ATTACKS OF SEPTEMBER 11 tell us that we are not in a crisis of security measures, but of manhood. It appears that the pirates who commandeered the aircraft of the most high-tech civilization in history, subjugating passengers and crew who outnumbered them 20 to 1, were armed only with knives. There were heroic moments nevertheless. A handful of passengers on one of the four planes, United Flight 93, apparently rushed the hijackers and made them miss their target as the plane went down. No doubt other acts of heroism and self-sacrifice occurred on that and other flights, which we may not learn about in this life. But Flight 93 raises the question of whether swift action by passengers at the first sign of trouble might have entirely prevented all four hijackings. Why didn't it? Thwarting the crimes would have required the presence of a number of daring, independent-minded men on each plane who were willing to violate the taboos of our polite, white-collar society. I heard John Lawless, public safety director for Logan Airport, explaining the Sisyphean program by which the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) hopes to make flying in Boston safe. It includes banning all knives, including plastic ones, from the secure areas of the airport, even at food concessions. That seems likely to make airports more vulnerable, rather than less. Everyone in the perimeter will be sufficiently disarmed that all it will take to hijack a plane is a case of bad breath. One might reply that Logan's security guards (who henceforth will be state policemen) will have weapons. Or that an armed Sky Marshal will be aboard each plane. But consider that guns can be swiped from holsters. In an airport or plane sterilized of all other weaponry, a terrorist with an officer's Glock becomes the one-eyed man in the kingdom of the blind - facing a populace armed with plastic spoons. I hesitate to say that the logical conclusion is to force all passengers to board planes naked and unconscious, because someone might take me seriously. People in the public safety business seem to have 19th-century ideas in a world of 21st-century transportation. They have only one solution to any problem: trying to control it from the top down, keeping ordinary citizens as helpless as possible, lest they cause more problems. In the interest of creating a safer and easier society, we in the West have passed laws designed to keep weapons out of the hands of disorderly persons. What the laws effectively do is keep weapons out of the hands of most persons. And that can work well-in a controlled environment. But we are in a mobile society with a flight system open to the entire world. No police force or army can protect people who have emasculated themselves of all weapons. Order cannot survive where men in particular have given up the idea that it is right and good that they be equipped to stand up for themselves and protect the innocent. Rather than seeking the diminishing returns of intensified control over the innocent, surely it would be simpler and safer to use the leverage of freedom to intimidate the guilty: Allow any airline passenger to carry any sidearm of his choosing-concealed or unconcealed. Anyone who tried to commandeer a plane would find himself surrounded by hostile fire, and enjoy a short career. There might be a risk of injury or death to some innocent passengers from stray shots or cabin punctures. But isn't that a better risk than that of losing all 300 passengers and thousands of other innocents on the ground? But it's more likely that there would be no in-air firefights at all. If the FAA solemnly announced that passengers were free to carry private firearms, that would end discussion of the plane-hijack option among terrorists, whose greatest fear is to die in humiliating failure. Some terrorists would try to think of other approaches to terror, of course. But the spell would be broken. For a small band of lunatics to hold a huge crowd helpless and sear the psyche of the civilized world, the crowd must be unarmed. The whole warped project of the terrorist - using a small piece of technology to make large numbers of people sit still for ideas they would otherwise laugh at - cannot survive the democracy of force. I doubt the FAA will change its mind tomorrow. The institutions of Western culture long ago adopted feminism-a philosophy that holds that the leadership and physical strength of ordinary men are dangerous, unnecessary, and possibly evil. But feminism is built on a contradiction. For women and children - including feminists - to survive without male leadership and protection, they must be kept in a protected world where unseen male policemen or soldiers keep the bad men far away. That world is now gone. Even now, our culture could be in the process of reclaiming its true sense of purpose to defeat its terrorist enemies. Perhaps Jeremy Glick will be an example for other men. A passenger on Flight 93, Glick called his wife on his cell phone to tell her that he and some others were about to jump the hijackers - and he told her to have a good life and raise their three-month-old daughter well. Because of these men's heroics, Flight 93 crashed in a field south of Pittsburgh, instead of destroying the White House. There will be no more hijackings when American men decide that they will defend their families and their neighbors from barbarians, risking their lives if necessary. Perhaps next week, men inspired by recent events will start practicing at shooting ranges. Others may take up (or re-learn) boxing or wrestling, or the Oriental martial arts - which were invented by peasants denied the use of weapons by their overlords. But rather than the specifics, it is the change in our attitude from passivity to mastery that will change our culture and our destiny. Right now, civilized people wonder where the next disruption to their lives will occur. When they quietly arm themselves, it will be the terrorists - the diminishing number who will be attracted to that trade - who will be moving nervously from place to place, wondering which face in the crowd, which stockbroker, which accountant, which shopkeeper, which schoolteacher, will make their dreams of domination evaporate in an instant. (9/17/01)

JULIE (CONSANI) JOHNSON ('71)... "Dennis, I can not understand how such EVIL can exist in this world. My prayers and thoughts are with all of the people who have lost loved ones. When I awoke this morning here in California to the site of the one building burning and then the other one being hit by the second plane, my first thought was of my youngest sister and her family. They live back East, and her husband had worked at the Pentagon. Thankfully they are all ok. Second thought was of my nephew who works as a stock broker in San Francisco. Again thankfully he was sent home without incident. And third my niece who also works in San Francisco, she too was safe and at home. And then like the rest of the nation, I started asking myself, WHY? How could some one have so much hatred inside of them to do such a horrible act? Please, I want to make some sense of this. If anyone has any insight please, pass it along to me. Again, I am saying extra prayers for all that have been affected by this." (9/11/01)

SHEILA (O'KANE) CHIN ('74)... "Dear Heavenly Father, We are moved by the alarming news and crisis that our country is facing. This, the greatest nation, founded in the belief that "In God We Trust" & the "Land of the Free". Please have mercy on those suffering, hurting and in fear, and give wisdom & strength to those who are assisting. May the forces of evil be broken by your power and may we humble before thee, our strength and refuge. Give wisdom to all our President & our leaders and bring your comforting peace through the power of your Holy Spirit. Help us here to reach to those that have been affected by this tragedy. In the name of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. AMEN (Please send this to all your friends and create a prayer chain throughout this nation.)" (9/11/01)

MARK NORMAN ('71)... "Dennis, Thank you. Words fail... Please pray for the innocent people whose lives were lost and the loved ones left behind. While our country has been attacked, we stand strong and proud. Those who live are obliged to those who have passed to stand for peace and justice. May those who are responsible know that we will not sleep until they are hunted down and destroyed. Justice will be served when the civiilized may live in peace. May those responsible for these heinous acts rot in hell forever!" (9/11/01)

CATHY (BOOTH) AUCOIN ('70)... "Dear Dennis and Classmates: Even though this is a tragic event for all of the us, we have to remain in love, start prayer circles out of love, because this is the only way we can at least calm this negative energy down. If we continue to come from the fear and the hatred that this is to instill, then, we have lost already. Please be aware that this is a wake up call and we should trust in God, but lock the door, but only with love not fear. Thank you God bless and protect." (9/11/01)

MARGO (GARCIA) SABATER ('71)... "Dennis, Thank you for the forum to express ourselves about this horrible tragedy. When I first heard the news, in my car on the way to work this morning, my first thought was of "The War of the Worlds." spoof. What I was hearing was so unbelievable, it's the only correlation I could make at the time. But it wasn't a spoof...it was nightmarishly real. How ironic that the movie "Meagiddo" about the final conflict of the world, premieres this Friday, only days after this event which could very well lead to the final conflict of the world. I believe we are truly living in the end times. If any of our classmates have not received the Lord as their personal Savior, I urge them to do so right now. It's true, you have the rest of your life to decide, but the problem is, we don't know exactly how long that is. My prayers go out to all of our fellow Americans who have lost their lives today and their families who are left behind. God bless you all." (9/11/01)

AUGUST 2001
CARL JENSEN ('70) Newport News, Virginia [E]just sent me the funniest letter that I have read in the past 20 years! His 3-page, single-spaced, typed letters recounted his recent advertures with two business trips to Fort Walton Beach, Florida (Eglin AFB) and then to Colorado Springs, Colorado. Too lengthy to go into here, let me just say that he took his wife, carol, on the trip to Colorado and the two of them lived through hell in re-enacting the movie "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" that starred Steve Martin and John Candy! I couldn't stop laughing at his description of missed planes, delayed planes, storms, 40 people trying to cram into an 8-passenger van, no hotel accomodations, no luggage, Pakistani cab drivers at the airport and more. Carl swears he heard one of the irate cab drivers yell at him, "Hey, your mother was a camel!!" I am laughing so hard right, now. Carl has a bit of advice for people travelling- a hair dryer, set on "nuclear-turbo high" will dry out a pair of underwear in 15 minutes, socks in 20! I have tears rolling down my face at his story. What a hoot. In other news, Carl tells me that he and carol have been spending their free evenings setting up an apartment for a family from Nigeria that their Sunday school class is sponsoring. The family will arrive on September 14th. Carl says that Nigeria is predominantly a Moslem country and Christians have a very hard time there. Samuel is the head of the family and will be bringing his wife and three children. Carl looks forward to retirement in a few years or so, and he's taking steps, now, to slow down his work pace and give time and attention back to his lovely wife. The two of them are discovering how the little things in life can mean so much. He tries to have lunch with her at least twice a week. He stays in touch with MARK LOISELLE, WARREN WHITAKER and GLEN WHITAKER by e-mail and really enjoys this web site. ---On a personal note, I want to thank Carl and Carol for their generous donation to keep this web site going. He has been with me since the beginning and I can always count on his support. He has a generous heart and a caring, compassionate spirit that serves as an example to us all. Thanks for your friendship, my friend. And by the way, Carl, if we have the party next year, be sure to bring Samuel and his wife! I'd love to meet them! (8/27/01)

MARY CUNNINGHAM ('72) San Antonio, Texas [E] sent me an e-mail that I'm happy to share... "Hi, Dennis. I know you wont know who this is. My name is Mary Cunningham. I've never been invited to a class reunion. I've lived here since I graduated. Bob Frazier e-mailed me and told me about your web site. When I went to your site, I had a hard time getting off. It is totally interesting in what you have done. Many a name I had forgotten all about and now I remember them. Thank you for doing this . You are a good man. I'm going to keep up with your web site, so, I'll know when the next reunion will be. This time I want to be there."---Good to have you among us, Mary. Please don't wait for an invitation to these parties, as, everyone is always welcome! Just be sure to join us! I haven't decided on whether or not to do one next year, but stay in touch. (8/21/01)

MARK NORMAN ('71) Kentucky [E]cracks me up. I get a package from UPS the other day. I open it up and there is a beautiful coffee mug from the 2001 Boys Scout Jamboree. The isn't any note or letter with the cup. Just the cup in bubble wrap. I think and think who could have sent a Boy Scout mug to me and then I remembered that MIKE GABEL ('70) is a scout master and his son is very much involved in scouting. So, I whip out an e-mail to Mike, thanking him for the mug. Then, today, I receive an e-mail from mark asking me if I received a package from UPS. I told him the story about recevign the mug without any indication who sent it! Then I get this reply from Mark... "Dennis, That mug was from me - a bit short on the social skills. I think it was the mountain of laundry from two weeks in the field that captured my attention! The National Scout Jamboree takes place every four years at Fort A. P. Hill, Virginia, just south of Washington, D.C. It's used because of the facilities developed over the years. We would come to San Antonio, but doubt you would want 40,000 + boys digging slit trenches in your yard to use the bathroom in! In any event, it is fun and most boys tour the nation's capital. I was there for ten days doing volunteer work. Following that, I jump seated to Washington, met my wife, and drove back 2,537 miles to Kentucky. If you ever have the chance to travel interstate 90 do it. Wyoming is breathtaking. The Black Hills of South Dakota are fantastic. We saw Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse monument. The Badlands were our favorite. You will notice how we hit the national parks and save some $$$. Anyway, fill the cup up with coffee and enjoy. UPS will likely still contact you since I initiated a tracer. Just tell them to scan the package next time!" --- I never did hear back from Mike Gabel, so, he's got to be wondering what the hell is going on!! Yeee Haaaa!! (8/17/01)

BOB McAFOOS ('71) Phoenix, Arizona [E]is a guy whose name rings a bell, but I need to consult my yearbook to se his photo. Bob found my web site and sent me this great e-mail: "Hey Dennis, my sister told me about your site and I have spent hours going through it and reading all the news. You've done a fantastic job. It's sad to see all those that have passed away, well before their time. I was in the class of 1971, and spent all 4 of my high school years at John Jay, rare for a military brat. I was one of the quiet ones in high school - I did hang out with several people - Dennis Norman, Marty Bucy, Jim Dawson, Rocky Pfeffer, Dave Williams- mostly Auto Shop types, I still remember Mr. Clifton Crane, the auto shop teacher. Thanks to your site, I sent a message to Rocky Pfeffer and received a reply back, we'll be catching up on the good ol' days. I used to see Marty Bucy when I came back to San Antonio on military leave, but one year he had moved and I haven't seen or heard anything from him since. I saw Dennis Norman in Austin back around '84 or '85. We met up with his sister, Donna Norman, at a family wedding a few years ago. She told us he's a minister now at a church on the Texas coast. Donna is living in Oregon now. I ran into Dave Williams sometime in the early 80's, he was a manager at HEB Food Stores and lived out around Marbach and 410 someplace. After graduation, I married a girl I had been dating from South San High School - Dennis Norman had introduced us. We'll be celebrating our 30th anniversary on Aug 19. I worked locally until I was laid off, then I joined the USAF in 1972. I spent the rest of 1972 at Keesler AFB in Mississippi. In 1973, I was assigned to SAC HQ in Omaha where our son was born. In 1975, I re-enlisted and got a base of preference assignment to Luke AFB in Phoenix, Az - we fell in love with the place. In 1979, I separated from the USAF and went to work in Los Angeles for a large computer company doing computer field service. I worked my way up to service manager for Los Angeles before changing jobs to computer operations and management. In 1986, I was transferred back to Phoenix where we have been ever since. In 1993, I was laid off but was able to get another job very quickly. I work for Ryobi Outdoor Products now, we were bought by MTD in June of 2000. We make lawn and garden care products - string trimmers, blower vacs, etc. I'm the Computer Systems and Network Manager for the Chandler, Arizona site and three remotes, including one across the border in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. MTD is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, and is best known for their big Cub and Cadet line of riding lawn mowers. I was looking through your site and checked the 1971 yearbook and found I wasn't in it, then I remembered I was working late nights as a janitor at Kelly AFB NCO Club and had the first and second periods off and didn't make it the days they took our pictures. I know I'm in the 1970 yearbook in the junior class. Alot of people may just remember me as the kid that slept through most classes. Browsing through all the stuff on your site really brought back some fond memories. I remember Coach John Casanova as one of my History teachers, he used to mangle my name bad. I also remember Mr. Walter Chesshir and the tales he told about driving his old pickup truck in downtown San Antonio where everyone would get out of his way. Many, many memories were brought back to me while going through your website - all the people and events that are frozen in time and will always give us that link to our youth. And the girls - I'll always remember the girls. I saw reading through the updates on your site that several other Mustangs are living out here in the Phoenix area as well. It's a great state with alot of different climates and always someplace to see. I'll leave an open invitation to anyone coming through to drop a line and maybe meet for coffee or a beer or two. The Grand Canyon is spectacular at any time of the year. Take care to all and thanks again for all your effort in maintaining the site." ---Bob, I just checked my yearbook and your face sure looks familiar! I told Coach Casanova what you said about him always mangling your name and he couldn't stop laughing!! It's good to have you with us and I hope you'll stay in touch and join us at a future party! (8/8/01)

RENITA FOSTER ('71) Fort Monmouth, New Jersey [E]took me out to dinner this past Tuesday evening. She was in town from New Jersey to interview a retired airborne serviceman in Bandera. Renita is a Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves and is a feature writer for SOLDIER magazine. We went out to eat and had a great time remembering the days we went steady. She was the last John Jay girl that I went steady with, during my first year in college and during her senior year. As we were sitting at the restaurant, my aunt and uncle walked in! I hadn't seen them in about three years! Anyway, we finished eating and renita whips out her purse and insistes on paying for our dinner! She told me I was a "kept man!" Hey, I could get used to that lifestyle!!! Renita is as lovely, kind, thoughtful and energetic as ever! She is so full of life! We really did have a blast! (8/3/01)

CLYDE GIBSON ('70) San Antonio, Texas[E]came through his colon cancer surgery at Wilford Hall Medical Center with flying colors and he is already back at home, just a week after the surgery. He sent me this e-mail... "Dear Dennis, I feel so much better knowing that everything is behind me. I just have one more surgery in about 8 weeks to hook-up my small intestine plumbing. It's very caring to know that people still do care about each other. Thank you for getting the word out to my our friends and classmates. My 81-year old mother visited me in the hospital every day. She always said a short prayer with me, that's I'd like to share... 'Oh, Mother of mercy, healer of the sick, look with mercy on me and comfort me in my time of trouble. Amen.' Dennis, I feel as though I have a whole new start. It's great to be alive! Thanks for all and everything you have done. Please be sure to tell KAY COMPTON ('71) and SHIRLEY ENGLISH ('70) thank you for the cards and letters. Also, please be sure to tell all out classmates that this is the time of our lives that things like colon cancer and prostate cancer start appearing in our lives. I was lucky that the doctors found my colon cancer at an early stage, but having my large intestine removed has changed me for the rest of my life. Please get check-ups. It could save your life! Love, Clyde." ---My friend, we will keep the prayers and good thoughts going for you as you cntinue your recovery. We are all here for you! Those of you that would like to send Clyde a "Get Well" e-mail just click on this link: gibsoncv@msn.comEven if you don't know him that well, he's one of us! Drop him a line! (8/3/01)

RANDY OLSEN ('71) O'Fallon, Illinois[E]also came through his cancer surgery, but he has a long way to go to a full recovery. FRED POINTER ('71) was up to visit him during the week of the SHINDIG. I urge everyone to keep their prayers going for Randy. This is a wonderful man whose friendship I cherish and he just thinks the world of every one of YOU! I don't have any other details on his condition right now, but will keep everyone posted. He, too, loves to get e-mail, so click this link and drop him a line: rahmss6@aol.com (8/3/01)

JULY 2001
DONNA STEPHENS ('70) Corpus Christi, Texas [E] and her twin sister, Monna, were not able to make the party, this year, but she sent me a note... "Dear Dennis: Just got back from New Jersey, visiting my son and his family tonight. They moved up there in April this year. My granddaughter will be one year old tomorrow and we went to help celebrate over the weekend. Also to check out their new "old" home. It was built in 1838!! It is in a little township called "Bloomsbury" which is about 7 miles from the Pennsylvania state line. We had a great time. Talked to Monna this evening when I got home. She said Danny Padron was in town and she was going to meet him for dinner to get the scoop on the reunion first-hand!! I just read the comments and viewed the reunion pictures. I sure would have liked to visit with WANDA DARLEY ('71), CLAIR NEYLAND ('70) and PAULA EDGIN ('70), plus so many others. However, I just had to attend my only nephews baby shower in Houston. DUTY CALLS. I sure hope to make next year.... I hope there is a next year!! Take care Dennis. We all need you to love yourself the way we do!!" --- Wow! Thanks for the kind words, Donna! We missed you and your sister and hope that if we do it again next year, you'll be with us!! (7/31/01)

KATIE MILLER ('69) San Antonio, Texas [E] disappeared for a while when her e-mail address changed and I didn't know it. But surprise! She writes me today afetr about three years..."Hello Dennis! It's been too long since I've communicated. Thanks to a young man by the name of Christopher Palmer ('97) I revisited your web site this evening, and had a wonderful time remembering the good 'ole days! Chris contacted me via e-mail asking about pictures of Jay back when we were there, pictures from our yearbook, etc. We chatted this evening and he gave me the web site info. You continue to do so much for all of us! Thank you with all my heart for caring to keep people together through the years. Do you remember the acorn you gave me when we were getting the 25th reunion together? Well, I now have a beautiful little oak tree in my backyard. My husband and I were sitting in the backyard last night and I mentioned you and that acorn! A lot has been happening over the past few years. My "baby" boy who is now 23 years old, will be home next Monday from the Navy. It's been 4 long years for this mom. Sure will be nice to have him home. I can see from the web site that you and Danny have been busy again. Sure wish I had not missed the reunion or the gathering in July. Sounds like everyone had a great time. I'll be checking for future dates! Once again, thank you for all you have done and continue to do for those of us who are among the graduates of John Jay High School. May God bless you always." --- I wondered where you went, girl! We missed ya' at the SHINDIG and I hope you'll stay in touch with us! Thank youf ro your kind words. (7/24/01)

MICKEY MAHLER ('70) Salt Lake City, Utah [E]was out of touch with us for a while, but he's back! I got an e-mail from him today... "Dear Dennis, you big stud! How are you? I have just returned from a baseball tournament in Cooperstown N.Y., and saw that there is a reunion this weekend. Missed another one! I keep hoping to get back and see everyone, but never seem to have the time. Scan me some pictures and send them to me at work would you? Tell Mr. Chesshir that I would love to see him when he gets here! Even though I never had him for a class I have heard nothing but nice things about him. Keep in touch!" (7/15/01)

ROSS RAYMOND ('69) Katy, Texas [E] who won a TV set at last year's reunion, can't make it to the SHINDIG, as he explains in his recent e-mail to me... "Dear Dennis, Karen and I are upset that travel plans are taking us out of state the weekend of the big bash. I sure could use another TV, just kidding. I know it will be a GREAT time for all. Hope you are able to post photos on the website. I know it is a hassle, but we sure enjoy looking at them. I have to ask myself, "Who in the hell are these people, and am I surprised they turned out this way?" The answers are: "My high school buddies," and "NO!" I wonder what we will do in the year 2010? Of course that will depend on you. I don't believe it is possible anyone could take up the slack if you elected to sit any of this out. I have shown the website to some of my neighbors and they can't believe their high school classes are not up to the same level of play. I tell them that all they need is a super guy or gal, to work their ass off and love what they do and of course, do it selflessly. So far, they can't find anyone who measures up to the task at hand. We are one lucky bunch to have you as a JJHS grad. Otherwise, we wouldn't even know the school is still open for business. " --- Ross, boy you have a way with words, my friend. Thanks for the compliments and you will be missed this weekend. (7/10/01)

TONY PELLETIER ('71) Houston, Texas [E] is still busy in the oil business as he recently joined a new company. In his e-mail. today, he writes... "Dennis, I am sorry to report that I will not be able to make it this year. I had planned to attend but will be unable. We are in the midst of a large corporate acquisition that my team is tasked with closing. I will be in Houston and/or Denver working on the deal. My apologies. I was really looking forward to seeing everyone. I know everyone will have a great time. Please pass on my regards to everyone and keep up the good work." --- Tony, you hang in there and do your best to find more oil and get those gas prices down! LOL All the best to you! (7/10/01)

GLENN WHITAKER ('72) Honolulu, Hawaii [E]can't wait to get here for the SHINDIG! He's an Air Force Colonel and he writes... "Dear Dennis, You may recall that I'm still in the Air Force. So, over the past 24 years I've been all over the world and while your messages make me homesick for the Lone Star state, they always make me smile and they also keep me connected with "my roots." I'm really looking forward to the Pizza Hut bash and SHINDIG 2001!! My big brother, WARREN WHITAKER ('70), and I have been talking about it for months! We really appreciate all of the Mustangs who have contributed to setting this up....that, obviously, includes you Dennis! See you next week!" --- It's been many years, my friend! Hey, can you sneak me a "lay" from Hawaii? (And I ain't talking flowers, here, dude! Bring me a beautiful native girl!) (7/5/01)

HELEN RODRIGUEZ ('74) Unknown Location [E] loves my web site because she was able to contact some long lost friends. She writes... "Hey Dennis, Helen Rodriguez here.....I just got home from being in San Antonio last week and had a wonderful reunion with two classmates:::::JERI LOGGINS and HOLLY COOK, its been 27 years since we last saw each other and of course we said that we still look the same. It was wonderful, Holly and I talked until 1:30 am and still had more to say. We were band buddies and also Girl Scouts doing the camping thing, I found an old photo of both of us at Camp LaJita in 1970, we were GEEKS!!!!!!! I really really wanted to make this reunion but family commitments is keeping from being in SA but I told Jeri and Holly that I will really really try next time. Hope you all have a wonderful time and I will be thinking of YALL!!!!!!!" ---When old classmates find each other after so many years, I guess that's my biggest reward from doing this. I am so happy you reunited with friends!

MARK & VICKY (DALLAS) NANOS ('71/'72) Lee's Summit, Missouri [E]were contacted by BARBARA MILLER ('72) and she told them about my web site. The looked it over and love it! Mark writes... "Dear Dennis, We just spent some time at the site; a lot of fun to see the pics and catch-up. A call today from Barbara was a good reminder to send you our e-mail address, so, we can stay in touch with the great stuff you do to keep these contacts going. Vicky was just in San Antonio for her father's surgery, but had little time for looking up others. She is headed to a family reunion on her mother's side in Indiana during July, so we can't make the SHINDIG.. Keep up the good work!" --- Mark, be sure to give my best to Vicky and let her know that KATHY KEISOR ('72) and I stay in touch and it's great! Hope to see ya'll at another party in the future! By the way, I have cousins in Lee's Summitt! I'll have to get you their names and phone numbers and you give them a call for me! (7/3/01)

DAWN DAVID ('73) California [E] sent me a nice e-mail, today... "Hi Dennis! I know you all are going to have a great time at the reunion and I'm looking forward to seeing some pictures on the homepage. I did get to see VICKI HOWELL ('73) and WAYNE POTTER ('72) a few weeks before they got married. It was a great visit reminiscing and going through our yearbooks. I'll get to San Antonio again one of these days. Until then, I'll stay up to date with your home page and now classmates.com. Take care and thanks for all you do!!!" --- Dawn, thanks for all that YOU do! You are always a delight to hear from and always make me feel special with your e-mails! Come see me soon!! Love, ya'! (7/3/01)

RONNIE REYNOLDS ('71) Austin, Texas [E]is yet another classmates.com found Jay alumni. I contacted hime and he wrote back... "Hey Dennis! I`m so glad that you found me. I am living and working in Austin. I have three son`s ( three different mothers). Am married to my third and final wife for going on 8 years. I work in the construction world as a field supervisor for a local air conditioning, plumbing, and mechanical contractor. After serving army time 1971-74, I went into construction as structural ironworker-boilermaker-pipefitter. I traveled around a bit and finally settled in Austin. I am in contact with Mike Brandon, Gary Southard, Geri andVickie Van Beek, my brother and sisters,and maybe a couple of other folks. Don`t know if you knew this or not but Brian Leehas passed away. I think I`m going to love this site. Does anyone hear from either of the Rowinskysisters? They lived on Amber Valley and were from the classes of '71 or 72 and 75 or 76 Rebecca was the older sister. How about MELODY ('70) or Betsy ('72), Laura Shupp? Anybody remember CHARLIE PARRISH ('73)? ---Ron, glad to have you with the gang! Sorry, but the only name that is familiar to me, of those youmentioned, is Melody Shupp. She lives here in San Antonio, in fact, her parents lives just a bloc from me. However, I have not seen her since out 25-year reunion in 1995. Anyone having info on th other people, please, be sure to drop Ron a line. (7/3/01)

NENA MILLIGAN ('74) Devine Texas [E] found this web site and loved it so much that she sent in a donation for this "wonderful cause," as she puts it. She wrote me a three page letter and I'll share some of it here... "Dear Dennis, Enclosed is my donation for the wonderful cause of keeping your web site going. It is so very interesting and fun to keep up with old friends and those that I may have know only at a distance. I really enjoy reading about the happenings of you "older" classmates (the younger ones, too!) that I admired. It's great to find old freinds on the website and to see how they have made lives for themselves. Anyway, you probably don't remember me because when I was in 8th grade your were a Senior (12th) at John Jay. I had met you at Burger Chef, back in 1970, I think. I was with JUDY BOYLAN ('70) and you and ED HOLLEY ('72), were there. Ed was working at Handy Andy, I believe. Anyway, you were worried about a speeding ticket you had gotten and was asking Judy how to handle it. You seemed to be a very fun loving person, back then, as you must be now, to be putting as much care into this website, SHINDIG and this great project. I remember your brother BOB DUPRIEST ('75)who worked at the Exxon Self-Serve station at Marbach & Loop 410. I trained Bobby and I think that was back in 1976-1977. My brotherMIKE MILLIGAN ('76)was a good friend of SUSAN THOMPSON ('75)who, of course, is the wife of your brother, THOMAS DUPRIEST ('73). My parents were very good friends with the PADRON family, who's son, Pete is the husband of your sister, LINDA DUPRIEST ('71). My parents bowled with them, along with the parents of JEFF SPEAKS ('72) and Mr. & Mrs. Justice, the parents of DONNA ('71), BOBBY ('76), DIANE and TERRY both ('78) class. Anyway, I guess I had better not chew on your ear too much, you'll think I'm nuts! I just want you to know that I would like to be of any help to you in any way I can. If you need help with newsletters, finding people, setting up get-togethers, whatever, you just let me know. Brenda Gibbs and I are planning to come to the PIZZA HUT party on the 13th. Please be sure to add me to your e-mail and web site address lists. Hop to hear from you soon." ---Nena, what a fantastic memory you have! Now, about that speeding ticket that I was freaking about! I got that ticket the night BEFORE I had to go to court for three other tickets!!! When I got to court the next day, the judge only knew about the first three. He chewed me out about them and threatened to suspend my license. Then he asked me if I had anything to say. I thought about it and said, "Yes, sir. Last night I went to watch my car and after I washed it, I didn't have another 25 cents to finish rinsing it off, so, I got in my car and sorta' started driving down Military Drive kinda' fast to blow the water and suds off my car. And well, you see, I, .....uhhh, got another ticket, last night, for going 70mph in a 50mph zone, trying to dry off my car." I thought the judge was gonna' send me to prison!! He slammed his gavel down on his desk and gave me one-year probation. If I got another ticket in a year I was gonna lose my license. LOL What a hoot! Thank you for your kind words about this web site and thank you for your generous donation. I look forward to seeing you at the pizza party!! Welcome to the Gang! (7/1/01)

BRENDA GIBBS ('73) Castroville, Texas [E]was referred to my web site by her friend and fellow John Jay classmate, NENA MILLIGAN ('74). Brenda viewed this site and wrote to me... "Dear Dennis, Hi! I want to introduce myself. I'm Brenda Gibbs Suehs from the Class of 1973. My brother is E.J. GIBBS ('71). Ever since Nena told me about your web site, I have been enjoying it. I know a few of your classmates and it's ben great reading up on them. You have done a wonderful job! All the time and energy you have spent on this and all just to keep us together. If I had a hat, I would tip it for you! When my family first moved to San Antonio in 1964, DONNA COBURN ('71)and her family (brothers- Robert and Jimmy) were our neighbors. Donna and I used to put on Christmas plays at the barn. Of course, there was no one there to watch us, but we had a blast. After the Coburns moved (near the Westwood Village pool area) Donna and I drifted apart. KENNETH ELKINS ('70) family moved near us and boy did his life change because of that! Kenneth, brohte rRichartd and their dad- "Pop" had no girls in their lives until they met me. I became Kenneth's "pesty little bratty kid from down the street." But Kenneth never turne me away. Every weekend he would work on his red Corvair with all his friends, Nathan, Erwin, Ricky, and some others that I have forgotten. He never minded that I'd be hanging out with them. Here's something funny! Kenneth used to call my mom, his "Momma Googy." Anyway, one night kenneth had a party. Of course his Dad was gone. I looked out and saw flashing red lights! I told me mom and she flies out of the house! It turns out it was just ERWIN FORBIS ('70), but my mom was fit to be tied and believe me, when my mom spoke, people listen! The next thing you know, all of Kenneth's friends were taking off! I don't think he had a party like that, again! When Kenneth was datingVICKI GREEN ('70)he gave her a pure bred MUTT, Named "Feller." He became a pet to me, too. After Kenneth and Vicki married and moved to Valley Hi (behind the pool area) Feller would walk all the way back to my house. He kept doing that until one day he was hit by a car. He managed to make it back to my house, injured. I called Kenneth, but Feller died. Kenneth used to drive me to school every day of my Freshman year, even if he was SKIPPING SCHOOL with all his freinds!! He'd drop my off at school before taking off with his friends. He will always be a "big brother" to me. I was very sadden to read that Erwin had died. He was a nice guy.... Well, getting back to the future, so to speak, today, I live in Castroville. Sometimes, I get over to the Alsatian Golf Course, here to pick up my kids, I see some John Jay folks, including GARY BAILEY ('73),who is buying the golf course. My husband was born and raised in Castroville and can't begin to imagine our school, as his graduating class only had 21 students! We've been married since 1983, and have one boy and one girl. I work in Hondo at the county tax office. I'm the person everyone hates! Hey, I HAVE to take your money for city, county and school taxes, but it's just my job! LOL I am a nice person!!! Well, time to close. I hope to see you in two weeks at the SHINDIG." ---Wow! Those are some great memories! I know what you're saying about Kenneth and Vicki Elkins. They are two wonderful people, who ahve supported my efforts with reunions and this web site for the past 15 years. They have really BIG hearts! It's going to be a blast to meet you! I also want to say THANK YOU for your donation in keeping this web site going! (7/1/01)

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 while 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! (7/1/02)

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! (7/1/01)

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 underneath all this... this... uhh, jolly exterior! Maura, please be sure to stay in touch and we will miss you at the party! (7/1/01)

WELCOME BACK, MISSING MUSTANGS!
The following "missing" classmates have recently been found, one way or the other, and are now happily and joyously listed on our e-mail links page at: http://dennis52.home.texas.net/email.htmlSo, just click the link or visit the e-mail page, as you usually do. They'd love to hear from you, if you remember them, and would love to link up! Drop them a line! The names at the beginning of the list, below, are the most recent ones we've received...

MARY CUNNINGHAM ('72), BOB McAFOOS ('71), RICK PLUMLEY ('69), KATIE MILLER ('69), MICKEY MAHLER ('70), WALLY MEEKS ('79), MARK NANOS ('71), VICKY DALLAS ('72), MANNY HILL ('69), STEVE FLORES ('70), MAURA CASKEY ('70), JUDY CHASTAIN ('70), TESS PRESNELL ('71), MIKE CUNNINGHAM ('70), SUSAN SPANG ('71), ELLEN FIELDS ('70), LELAND BEAVERS ('71), RICHARD MASLING ('71), KIM NUCKOLLS ('72), BARBARA MILLER ('72), BRENDA GIBBS ('73), NENA MILLIGAN ('74), VALERIE BRASSFIELD ('73), ALVIN BRATZ ('73), STEVE FINDER ('72), BRAD SHOEMAKER ('71), DUANE NOBLES ('72), MRS. MARJORIE VALENTINE, MRS. BETTY PENNINGTON, COACH RON LUNA, MR. WALTER CHESSHIR, MRS. YVETTE FINDER, PAULETTE CLUCK ('70), VICKIE CULVER ('70), PAULA EDGIN ('70), JOHN WOOLEN ('70), MARK ROBBINS ('71), REGINA ALLEN ('70), SOTERO LUCIO ('70), ELLEN FIELDS ('70), JUDY CHASTAIN ('70), ROBERTA HOPP ('70), GAIL GOODPASTER ('71), JETTA JUSTICE ('71), MIKE GRINFIELD ('71), RICKY PFEFFER ('71), DAVID WILLIS ('73), LEE MRHA ('71), JANICE SAMS ('70), SANDRA REED ('69), LYLA DUNAGAN ('71), JEAN HUTCHESON ('69), CHRISTA MONACO ('71), DEBBY VAN PELT ('69), VANESSA ROBBINS ('69), DEANNA PACK ('69), DOREEN DUGGAN ('71), BRENDA POULTER ('70), KENNY SUNDBERG ('70), ALAN FREDERICK ('70), MARILYN MESSICK ('72), MICHELLE NELSON ('72), SANDY HICKEY ('73).

OUR CONDOLENCES...
Our prayers and sympathies to the families of these classmates who have lost loved ones. Love is all around...

KANDACE PIERCE BENDELE ('72) died early this morning at 2:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 23, 2001 after a long battle with ovarian cancer. Her husband, WES BENDELE ('70), their son Brad, and sister KATINA "Tina" PIERCE ('70) and other family members and friends were with her. All services are under the direction of the Sunset Northwest Funeral Chapels 6321 Bandera Road, San Antonio, TX 78238 Phone: 521-2111: Visitations- Wednesday 10/24/01 from 6-8 pm, and on Thursday 10/25/01 from 6-9pm. Funeral service on Friday 10/26/01 at 10:00am.Wes can be reached at home: 9849 Silent Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78250. His phone is (210) 647-7525 Our prayers and love go out to Wes and the Bendele / Pierce families. (10/23/01)

The mother of TOMMY McDUFF ('70) passed away on August 14th after a long battle with cancer. We extend out sincere and warmest wishes, along with our prayers, to the family. Mrs. McDuff was buried on Saturday, August 18th with services through Roy Akers Funeral Chapels in Sunset Memorial Park. You can send Tommy an e-mail by clicking on this link: macfive@txcr.net . (8/17/01)

The father of MARSHA DAY ('71), NANCY DAY (?) and DAVID DAY (?) died in a plane crash Sunday, 7/23/01, in Illinois. (From the San Antonio Express-News): Two men from San Antonio and a third from Pipe Creek who all belonged to a local flying club were killed late Sunday when their small plane crashed near Benton, Ill. Victims were identified as Robert Day, 71, and Lowell Robinson, both of San Antonio; and Bobby Steitler of Pipe Creek. The three men were headed to the Experimental Aircraft Association's annual air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The trio took off early Sunday from the San Geronimo Airpark, a privately owned, public-use daytime air park in far western Bexar County. They were planning to borrow a camping vehicle from one of Robinson's relatives because motel rooms are hard to find for the Oshkosh event, members of the local chapter said. David Talley, a member who publishes the chapter's newsletter, said he believes Robinson, an expert pilot, was flying the plane. Illinois officials have said they thought Steitler was flying the blue-and-white Cessna Cardinal 177, owned by Day. During a two-year term as vice president of the roughly 150-member chapter, Day, a retired Air Force master sergeant from West Virginia, succeeded in improving attendance at the chapter's monthly meetings by starting a tradition of cookouts, Talley said. Day, an FAA-certified air frame and power plant mechanic, was known for his hamburgers, fried turkey and savory cooked beans. "He was a great guy, and a great cook," Talley said. Day, who moved to San Antonio in the 1960s, also owned the Powderhorn, a gun shop on Southwest Loop 410, although his son now manages the business." (7/24/01)

JULIE HATFIELD ('77) passed away on July 14, 2001. She was 42 years old and did not have any type of insurance to cover funeral expenses. If you would like to help the family with the funeral expenses, you can make any contributions to: Bill Hatfield, 7411 Bronco Lane San Antonio, TX 78227. The viewing was held at: Memorial Funeral Home, located at 1614 El Paso Street San Antonio, and burial at San Fernando Cemetery #3. Our prayers for Julie and her family in this time of sorrow. (7/16/01)

The mother of WESLEY BRASSFIELD ('71), VALERIE BRASSFIELD ('73) and STEVE BRASSFIELD (?) passed away last week, from cancer. She was buried on Monday, July 2nd in Satler, Texas (near Canyon Lake). If anyone would like to send condolences, Valerie's e-mail address is jthvjh@gvtc.com(7/1/01)

ADOLPH SANCHEZ ('69) passed away in 1996 as a result of a heart attack he suffered while visiting his parents here in San Antonio. His sister, MARY (SANCHEZ) PARKER ('77), recently found this web site and informed me of his passing. Our condolences and prayers upon hearing of Adolph's passing. (6/28/01)

DARLEY: I received word on our classmate and friend, WANDA DARLEY ('70). Her mother passed away on Sunday. We offer our prayers and love to Wanda and her family. The following is the obituary notice that appeared in today's paper. You can reach Wanda (Darley) Wheatley by e-mail at: wjwsvw@aol.com or U.S. Mail: 1222 Harvest Canyon, San Antonio, TX 78258 ... Our beloved mother, Hazel Darley, was called home to be with her Lord,and to rejoin her husband and mother, on Sunday, February 24, 2002. Hazel Frazier Darley was born in Plant City, Florida, on May 7, 1929, but lived most of her youth in Palmetto, Florida, where she met and married Numan C. Darley. The couple lived in many locations due to travel with the Air Force, including Germany in the early fifties, but decided on retirement in San Antonio, Texas in 1966. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Sherian and David Mulholland of Charlotte, NC; Wanda and Seagal Wheatley of San Antonio, TX; daughter, Deborah Knapp of Damascus, MD; and her grandchildren, Ashlie Knapp Gerena and Kyle Knapp of MD. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 6 o'clock to 8 o'clock at Porter Loring. FUNERAL SERVICE: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28th, 12: 30 P.M. at PORTER LORING CHAPEL - 1101 McCullough, San Antonio, 78212. Phone: 210-227-8221 Chaplain Dr. James E. Carey officiating.Interment in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in the Guest Book at http://www.porterloring.com by selecting the Sign and View Family Guestbook icon. Arrangements with Porter Loring. (2/27/02)

SAAVEDRA: Our deep condolences and sincerest prayers go out to our classmate, LEONARD SAAVEDRA ('70) and his brothers and fellow Jay graduates Lee, Leonel, and Leo, on the passing of their father Leopoldo Saavedra, age 72 on Saturday, February 23rd. A rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at Sunset Northwest Funeral Chapel, 6321 Bandera Road (outside Loop 410 on the right). The funeral procession will be held from the funeral chapel at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 27th and proceed to St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 9883 Marbach Road, (outside Loop 410) for a Mass beginning at 1:00. Interment will be at Fort Sam Houston Cemetery. (2/27/02)

POLK: Charles Kenneth Polk, the father of our classmate, BONNIE POLK ('70) has died. He was born May 31, 1925 in Boonville, IN, and passed away January 19, 2002, from cancer. Mr. Polk was a veteran of W.W. II and the Korean Conflict, having served his country in the U.S. Army. He was preceded in death by his wife, Louann Jean Polk, in 1997. Survivors include his children, Bonnie (Polk) Gehrels ('70), Michele (Polk) Boles, and Susan (Polk) Baker; Michael Polk and Mark Polk [all graduates of John Jay High School.] Cards can be sent to the Polk family at 239 Meadow Bend, San Antonio, Texas 78227..(1/22/02)

STATE CHAMPIONS !!!!!
33 YEARS WORTH OF CONGRATULATIONS TO THE JOHN JAY HIGH SCHOOL "MIGHTY MUSTANGS" FOR WINNING THE STATE 5-A BOYS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP!! ON BEHALF OF ALL THE ALUMNI, WE ARE PROUD OF YOU GUYS!!! .... Dennis DuPriest

Saturday Night, March 9, 2002 High School Sports ... Miracle Jay! By Dan McCarney San Antonio Express-News

AUSTIN — On his 17th birthday, Jay point guard Chris Ross gave himself the best present possible. With his team down by two points Saturday night, he hit an incredible, double-clutch 3-pointer from half court as time expired, lifting the Mustangs to a thrilling 54-53 victory over Dallas Kimball in the Class 5A state championship game at the Erwin Center.

It was the only bucket of the two-game UIL State Boys Basketball Tournament for Ross. Adding icing to his birthday cake, he was named the game's MVP.

"I can't explain it," Ross said. "It's like a dream come true. "Every kid dreams of making the last basket to win the state championship. I can tell you it was luck ... pure luck."

The victory, marked Greater San Antonio's first state basketball title since Fox Tech donned the 4A crown in 1997. It is the city's first 5A championship since East Central won in 1995 to cap a 35-0 season. But this championship was far less expected than those titles. Jay (28-9) was an underdog in Friday's semifinal over Fort Bend Hightower and in Saturday night's title game against Kimball (29-7).

The Knights led the Mustangs 53-51 with 5.9 seconds left when Kimball guard Fred Campbell missed a free throw. Ross stole the rebound, maneuvered past several Kimball defenders and let the ball fly from about 50 feet.

The shot hit nothing but net.

"Just like I drew it up," Jay coach Romy Vela said jokingly.

"That's all, folks!"
...and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.
Love Is All Around...
Dennis Michael Patrick DuPriest
John Jay High School, San Antonio, Texas - Class of 1970