DECEMBER 2002
STEVE MAYS ('70)

NOVEMBER 2002
MARSHA DAVID ('71), DAWN DAVID ('73) These sisters sent in individual checks, on the very same day, that were both extremely generous!! My love and thanks to them both.

OCTOBER 2002
NONE

SEPTEMBER 2002
PAM MINNEMAN ('73)sent in magnificently generous donation to keep us going! THANKS!

AUGUST 2002
NONE

JULY 2002
DOUG WHITE ('72)Thanks to Doug's super generous donation, we're still going strong!

JUNE 2002
MELANIE MILLER ('75), GLENN BURCHARD ('69)

MAY 2002
NONE

APRIL 2002
CARL JENSEN ('70) in celebration of his turning 50! Way to go, Carl! Thanks!!

MARCH 2002
NONE

FEBRUARY 2002
NONE

JANUARY 2002
RANDY OLSEN ('71), PAM CHABAK ('70)

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2002: HOUSTON CHRONICLE OBITUARY, SENT IN COURTESY OF KATHY HAMBRIGHT ('72) below...

PAUL DAVID BROOKS CRUMP, 1953-2002, was born in Burtonwood, England to parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Marvin Crump. He grew up in San Antonio, Texas and was a 1971 graduate of John Jay High School, where he received many honors through the International Thespian Society troupe. He attended Lon Morris College (73), and the University of Houston (BA '75, MA '81). He was the Gay Advocate at UH, 74-75. Paul taught Theatre Arts at Alief Hastings High School from 1981-1995. He was the Texas Thespian Director, 1988-90, and received the 1995 Secondary Teacher of the Year Award from the Texas Educational Theatre Association. He was also very honored to be named and to serve as an Elder at St. Paul Presbyterian Church.

Paul Crump was predeceased by his parents, his brother Lewis Crump, Jr. and his lifelong companion, Richard I. Allen, whom Paul was committed to over 20 years before Dick's death in 2000. He was also predeceased by beloved basset hounds, Jasper and Daphne, who will soon be joined by their brother Rufus, so the family will all be together. Paul was discovered dead of natural causes in his townhome late Saturday evening. He had serious medical problems and the exact cause of death has not yet been determined.

He is survived by his mother, Krin Brooks Perry, who legally adopted Paul, June 7, 1999, but who always considered herself his "Mom". She met Paul when he was 11 years old, tagging along to play rehearsals with his older brother. Later, she was his teacher, then his mentor and colleague in theatre education, and then, best of all, his mother. He will be mourned by his grandmother, Rita C. Dalton and his aunt W. Kelly Brooks of San Antonio. His closest friend, Jeanette Filardo, and countless other wonderful friends. Seven years ago, Paul drafted his own obituary. This is the last paragraph, and those who knew him will recognize his style...

"Paul David Crump was blessed with many dear friends, a few good school administrators, thousands of precious young people to teach and love, a delightful riot of dogs, and the honest and unfailing love of a Southern gentleman. He had a good life filled with truth, beauty, and art. He was terribly proud of all the accomplishments of his former students. Paul D. Brooks Crump received very little love from his family growing up, but he learned to love from others who loved him. He exuded love to the friends he embraced, and expressed love through his teaching and the art he produced. He was also a lifelong Presbyterian and a very moral man. He refused to deny what God had made him, never considered hiding his homosexuality, and lived his life with passion."

MISS BROOKS' EMAIL ADDRESS IS:krinbrooksp@aol.com

CLASSMATE COMMENTS & CONDOLENCES...
RICHARD HENDERSON ('70) "Hello Dennis, The passing of Paul Crump made me go to the class web site Your Wonderful Marvelous Thrilling Rejuvenating Hell of a lot of work site. I wanted to call Paul my frend but I was not worthy of sharing that title because I didnt stay in touch with him. Nor could I have called him more than what I always refer to him as "My High School Boyfriend" We were in love wildly romantically and somewhat secretely. Who knows how many could really tell and I was the one who was so scared to come out back then. Paul accepted his sexuality long before I did and my inability to cope pulled us apart as he forged ahead. He lived a full and worthwhile life albeit short compared to many but he lived the way he wanted to not trying to please others or living a lie like many so called straight married men I know. Those who cheat on their wives putting up a front because they cannot deal with beng called gay. Paul didn't put up with that he moved on and found someone who loved and cared for him and that he loved and cared for. He gave of himself always to further the goals and aspirations of his many students he shared his drive, his ove,and yes his faith, even though many fundamentalist classmates would deny that he could have any because he was gay or that he didn't fit their Christian cookie cutter world. Paul did so much more with his life, than I, because he was brave and strong and true and yes he did fill his world with Love his whole life through. I will remember his love always and treasure the memory of those thrilling moments that we all as teens experienced in our search for Love and Happiness....My best and worst memories of high school days have to do with my memories of Paul David Crump - Brooks." (Note: Richard Henderson asked that I include his letter, in this forum, and I have done so. -Dennis)

KATHY KEISOR ('72) "Dennis, What a shock. I'm so sad and sorry to hear about Paul's death. Heartbreaking. Love."

BETTY CONSANI ('70)"Dennis, I remember him well, my sympathies are with him, his family and friends. God's speed."

KAREN KISLING ('72)"Dennis -- Thanks for passing on news of school friends, even the sorrowful news, such as the word of Paul Crump's passing. I knew Paul only casually; my sister, KATHY (KISLING) DURANT ('70)knew him better because of drama. I talked with her this evening, and she, too, was deeply saddened....she has fond memories of working with him on stage. I was happy to hear of the success he encountered in theatrical circles; I'd never known what happened to him past high school. Thanks, again, for your efforts to keep Jay grads in touch. P.S. It's funny how abililities jump around within families. Kathy was the thespian in our family when we were growing up, but 2 of my kids actually have done a lot of both community and professional theatre in the Baltimore area. Her kids couldn't care less about acting, though her youngest son, an excellent musician, does enjoy playing bassoon in the pit for musicals."

BRENDA STOUT ('71) "Dennis, I was saddened to learn about Paul Crump's death. What a dear friend he was in high school. I still remember the night we all went to the fair at Bandera and Paul & I were on the ferris wheel. What a lifetime ago that was."

GEORGE HUNTER ('70) "Dennis, I feel for our fallen Classmates, as I do for my fallen war comrades. The loss is never easy to handle in any way shape or form."

MARY "MOLLY" DELANEY ('71) "Dear Dennis, Thank you very much for sending out the e-mail about Paul. It was forwarded to me by my brother, MATT DELANEY ('70). Would you please send me Krin Brooks' e-mail address? Paul was a very dear friend of mine and he gave me Krin's phone number when I saw him in Texas last spring, but, I cannot locate it right now. I would very much like to get in touch with Krin. I thank you with all my heart."

SUSAN BREIDENBACH ('71) "Dennis, I would appreciate any news you receive concerning Paul's memorial service."

CHERYL GOODMAN ('72) "I knew Paul, too. Thanks for letting us know. How sad."

MRS. YVETTE FINDER (former French teacher at Jay) "Dear Dennis, Thank you for keeping me informed. I am so sorry to hear of Paul Crump's untimely death. I remember him, blond, slender, I believe he took French with me... Six years ago, I met Ms. Brooks in a Dairy Queen somewhere between Bastrop and College Station. We were happy to see each other. We exchanged telephone numbers but never called. I am sorry to hear that she is ill.... I hope her cancer can be successfully treated. Thank you, Dennis. Take care."

MRS. MARGE VALENTINE (former Math teacher at Jay) "Thanks for the info about Paul. I remember him well."

MARK NORMAN ('71) "Dennis, Thank you. Paul was a kind and talented individual. He will be missed."

KATIE MILLER ('69) "Dear Dennis, Our mortality becomes evident once again. I fondly remember Paul, and will be praying for his family and friends."

WARREN WHITAKER ('70) "Hi Dennis, I remember the name but do not recall any interactions with him. My prayers will go out to his loved ones. I greatly appreciate you sharing the news and keeping us abreast of our classmates journeys through the course of our lives. Hope all is well for you and yours. Always with love."

PATRICIA HARRIS, "Class of 1973", has died. She was born on May 27, 1954 in Austin, TX, went to be with Our Lord on October 16, 2002 at the age of 48. She is survived by her son, Jerry Wayne Harris and wife Stefanie of San Antonio; parents, Troy D. and Mary Ann Harris of San Antonio; sisters, Angie Bippert and Ella Harris of Austin, TX; grandchildren, Talon and Sloan Harris of San Antonio; nieces and nephews, Meredith A. Harris of San Antonio, Sierra Harris, Autumn Bippert,Cheyanne and Caitlyn Moran, Travis Bippert, Troy and Tyler Moran and Julian Harris all of Austin, TX. Pat loved animals and spent her life taking care of them. She will be dearly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.  The family will receive visitors on Sunday, October 20, 2002 in the Hillcrest Chapel from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. A Prayer Service will commence at 3:00 P.M. and Procession will depart Hillcrest following the Service for Interment at Wildflower Memorial Park. Arrangements with Hillcrest Funeral Home.

MATHEW LUECK, "Class of 1988" San Antonio, Texas, died on Friday, October 11, 2002 of kidney and liver failure. I have been the next door neighbor to the Lueck family for 19 years and have known Mat since he was 14 years old. Mat was like a kid brother to me. He mowed my lawn and, 9 times out of 10, would not take money for doing it. One of my biggest laughs with him was when he was about 16, he desperately wanted to try to smoke a cigar. So, one summer night, he came over to my house, we sat on the patio and I gave him a cigar. He lit it up and about 10 puff later, he's barfing all over my patio and backyard! He cracked me up! He loved Beatles music and made me tons of CD's, off the internet, of rare Beatles material. He really enjoyed hearing my stories about growing up in the 1960's, and I even brought him on my TV show, once. He was an outstanding guitar player, songwriter, and musician. Mat got me hooked on computers, years ago, and he was amazing on the internet- a kid genious. Back on New Year's Eve 2000, my computer crashed BIG TIME. I had to go to my cousin's wedding at midnight, so, Mat came over to my house around 10PM and stayed until 4AM, fixing my computer. He had a rebelious spirit, a creative heart, and quick wit. Family was very important to Mat and there's nothing he wouldn't do for his mom and dad. In recent years, Mat had lived in New York and then moved back, here. He is survived by his mom and dad (Maudie & James) and two brothers, who also graduated from John Jay,- Mitchell ('77), who lives in New York, and Michael ('73), who lives in San Antonio. He will be dearly missed. Peace, Mat. (10/12/02)

NANCY KAY WOODS (76), mother, daughter, and friend to many, was born August 31, 1957, Rapid City, SD and passed away Nobember 27, 2002, San Antonio, TX. Preceded in death by father, Walter O. Woods. Survived by son, Corey Michael Torres; daughter, Catherine Amber Torres: brothers, David W. Woods and Kenneth L. Woods; sisters, Patricia W. Russiano and Sandra J. Dunn ('70) parents, Jane M. and Robert D. Jones. Memorial Service Saturday, was heldNovember 30, 2002 at 3:00 P.M., Marbach Christian Church, 8023 Marbach Rd., San Antonio. Memorial fund for her children: P.O. Box 1742, Bonita, CA 91908.

MRS. DORIS DAVID, San Antonio, Texas, mother of our John Jay classmates Marsha ('71), Dawn ('73), Mark ('74), Dean ('77) and Steve ('80), died last night, in her home, after a long battle with cancer. Viewing will be held on Monday, October 14th. from 7-9PM at the Castleridge Funeral Home, 8008 Military Drive West. The funeral will take place on Tuesday, October 15th, at 10AM from the funeral home. Our prayers and sympathies to the David family. (10/12/02)

DECEMBER 2002
STEVE JIMMERSON ('73) San Antonio, Texaspretty much has the same opinion about the design of the new additions on the John Jay buildings, as he writes in his e-mail... "Dennis, First of all, thanks for all the effort you put into keeping up the website and the email list. It shows how much you care about your friends and your school. Secondly, I have to agree with you about the additions to the John Jay campus. My mom still lives on Westport Way, about one-half block east of Mary Hull Elementary. Every time I go to see her I drive past the school. When I saw the new brick and tile going up, I couldn't help thinking  " where the hell did that come from?" It doesn't look any thing like the old existing school, there is no continuity, no connection at all. I am pleased that Jay is getting some much needed facilities upgrades, but from what I've seen so far, the money that the district spent on exterior design was wasted. Again, thanks for the informative and entertaining website." --- Steve, thanks for your opinion. The whole school is starting to look like a giant LUBY'S CAFETERIA! Yes, it's great that the school is getting these badly needed renovations and expansions, but, geez, the idiot that dream up these accent colors is way off base!! Guess, it's too late to do anything about it.  Believe it or not, someone contacted me the other day and in the course of our conversation, they suggested that I consider applying for the Northside Independent School Board from our district. It seems that the current board is retiring before his term is over and the Board needs to appoint someone to finish out the term until May 2003. Hmmmmm, it's something for me to consider. Would that be cool or what?? (12/14/02)

LEROI STOVALL ('71) Long Beach, Mississippihas found this web site and we get our first word from him over over 32 years! Here's part of his e-mail to me..."Well, Dennis,I went into the military after graduation.  Spent some time overseas in the middle east, Europe, and Korea.  Had long long career in the Army and the reserves.  I have two sons now in the service, one marine and one soldier. I have a new 9 year old son, got remarried to a young lady from Long Beach MS. I have one 12 year daughter who I get to visit two weekends a month.  I was activated shortly after 9/11 and only got back home this past September.  I got my BA in 1981 after 8 years of part time school etc.  Currently work for US Dept Of Agriculture. Active in my church. I work as a volunteer for the Krewe of Tucks in New Orleans.  My cousin will be the Queen, this year, so Mardi Gras will be extra busy for us this year. I have been in good health all these years and was fairly lucky with wives and kids, first marraige lasted almost 28 years. I still feel like a newlywed right now, I have moved from the city out to coastal Mississippi, and it is wonderful.  I am very glad that you have taken up the flame.  I look at our pictures on the web site, and my memory really has failed me, I could only remember some of the pep Squad (only one date with one) and the guys who knocked me on my fanny in football- Chuck Everingham, Gerald Giles, Joe Glowski. Sports was my life, except, I do remember three teachers real well too, Mr. Marshall (who got me hooked on math and computers) and Coach Mason and Coach Tilten (both of whom were DAD models for me). I have been a lot luckier in life that I believe I deserve, but I will always remember my high school days.  Please put me on a reunion list if possible, I know I am getting old, but, if you have another reunion, or if Class of '69 or '71 does, please let me know.  I was real glad to see the names I did see on your list. We lost quite a few in our generation with the war, I hope my sons make it thru this one." --- Leroi, it's fantastic to hear from you after 32 years! It is a Christmas miracle to be sure! Our next reunion is scheduled for July 2005. If something happens before then, well, you're on my e-mail list so you'll get the news for sure! Welcome back, MUSTANG! (12/10/02)

NOVEMBER 2002
LINDA DUPRIEST ('71) San Antonio, Texas, well, I went over to my sister's house, this evening. It's the first tiem that I've seen her since she started chemotherapy for her breast cancer. She's doing great, but, she's lost all her hair. I asked her if she was brave enough to take a picture with me and if, she minded that we post the photos here on the web site. Well, Linda's always been one to do the unusual, so, here's our photos. (11/16/02)

CARL JENSEN ('70) Newport News, Virginiahas been such a wonderful friend for three decades. Today I received this e-mail from Colonel Carl (retired)... "Dennis, You be the man. I don't think current and possible future world events are going to allow me to get to San Antonio this Christmas so I'll have to catch you hopefully sometime in the summer. Dennis, I would ask that, this Thanksgiving, you say a special prayer for those men and women that are in uniform already deployed in-theater in Southwest Asia, and those additional that will surely have to go, if, that is the course of action that we must take. Also, a little published fact are the goodly number of men and women who, while not serving outside the U.S borders, are deployed away from home station around the U.S. for homeland security. They all will, nevertheless, be separated from their families over the holidays...... Dennis, you take care and have a great Thanksgiving....CJ" ---Colonel, thanks for the good wishes and you can rest assured that ALL classmates will be joining with me in saying a prayer for our men and women serving in all branches of our armed forces. Have a great Thanksgiving, my friend! (11/16/02)

CINDY ELKIN ('71) Tulsa, Oklahoma has some interesting news for us..."Hi Dennis: Hope this note finds you well....I haven't kept in touch much lately. Ed & I have bought a new house and that, plus work, keeps me very busy. Anyway, I just have some news I just want to brag about! If you've been keeping up with the goings-on about the sniper, you know that both of them are probably going to be tried in Virginia first. Well....John Muhammad, the older one of the two, is in Prince William County Jail in Manassas. And that just happens to be where my son is a Deputy Sheriff. And...if you've seen any of the video or pictures in the newspapers (from last Friday when the bad guy was arraigned) you MAY have noticed the deputy right beside him. GUESS who that is!! Can you believe that my son (25 years old) is in charge of that particular prisoner from his cell to the courtroom! He was chosen by his superiors for the job...I'm awfully PROUD of him! Anyway, I just wanted to be a bragging mom...and to see how you are doing these days. If, you'd like...you can pass the info along. I think I've told just about everybody I know! Take care, Dennis...and I do look forward to hearing from you from time to time...even if some of the news is not what I'd particularly like to hear. I knew Paul Crump and remember him fondly. Say hello to Krin Brooks for me when you get a chance. Love, Cindy." ---Thanks for your e-mail, Cindy, that IS fascinating news!! I can't find a record of your address, so I didn't get to list it at the bgeinning of this, but, are ya' still in Texas? Probably not. My memory is getting worse every day! Take care! (11/16/02)

MARSHA DAVID ('71) Englewood, Florida andDAWN DAVID Cameron Park, California were at the Castleridge Funeral Home for their mother's visitation service, back in October, when I went over there and visited with them and their brother, DEAN DAVID ('77). They all look great and, to tell you the truth, all three of them looked like they just stepped out of classes at Jay! Damn, they are so young looking, especially Marsha and Dawn. They look outstanding! It was wonderful to talk with each of them and to know they're doing well. Dawn came right up to me and gave me a great big hug. Dawn stays in touch with me by e-mail and always has a touching and kind word for me. She's a fantasic lady and our friendship has grown over the years. It never ceases to amaze me how someone I barely knew 30 years ago can come to be such a great friend, today. Thank you, Dawn. You are the sweetest! Marsha has always been such a good friend, as well. The David family thanks all their classmates who contacted them by e-mail and sent their best wishes and condolences. (Sorry for this late posting!) 11/7/02 ... UPDATE:Today, Tuesday, November 12th, I received a check from Dawn and one from Marsha. They both sent in very generous donations to keep this website online. Thank you, ladies!! Marsha and Dawn will both be returning, here, to San Antonio for Thanksgiving. We're gonna' try to get together for some laughs and remembering the good old days. If, my sister, Linda is up to it, she'll be joining us. I can't wait to see both of these ladies, again. (11/12/02)

GLENN BURCHARD ('69) Austin, Texas has found a fellow classmates of his and sent me an e-mail and photo... "Dennis, I wanted to give you the email address for DAVID HOLMES ('69). I'm sure you remember him from the Class of '69. Dave and his family is alive and well and living in the Dallas area. He had a very distinguished career in the Air Force and now is doing great things in the financial world. Please add his email: theholmesare@attbi.com    He has visited the site and really enjoyed it. I have attached a picture of the two of us taken about three months ago. We'll have to get him to the next "shindig". Take care---appreciate all you do!" ---Glenn it's great to hear from you and to welcome David back to the Mustang corral. Tell him to drop me a line so I can tell everyone what he's been up to these 30+ years! (11/9/02)

KARIN WALTERS ('69) Crosby, Texasis doing wonderful things in her life. For one, she's gone back to school! I don't know how she does it, or, for that matter, how any of you do it. I wanted to earn my degree after all these years, too, but something just holds me back- FEAR. I just don't think that I could handle the math and science courses! I am so proud of Karin and all of you folks who go back to school to get your degree. Karin's my buddy who always makes sure I'm ok and sends me surprise words of comfort and love every now and then. You're the best, Karin! (11/7/02)

DEBBIE BURTON ('73) California is in San Antonio, this week, for her grandson's 2nd birthday. We're supposed to get together with her and KIM COLLIER ('73), WARREN WHITAKER ('70), ED HOLLEY ('72) and myself. I've had a busy week but my weekend is free. I hope we all have time to see one another. I have seen Debi for 33 years. (11/7/02)

JILL TEMPLE ('72) Somerset, Texasstopped by my office at school, this week. We'll be going to lunch, next Thursday. She's back in school and earning her degree. She's at Southwest Texas State in San Marcos and drives there three days a week. What a commute! (11/7/02)

BILL MIZELL ('70) Boerne, Texaswas thrown a surprise birthday party by his wife, JoAnn, at the Medina County Line restaurant (corner of Valley-Hi Drive & Loop 410, behind the Mobil station). Close to 50 people were there and among them were yself, KAY COMPTON ('71), RUSTY ATKINS ('70) & DIANA (JOHNSTON) ATKINS ('78), ED HOLLEY ('72) and RICK SANDOVAL ('71). We had a great time, the food was fantatsic, and Bill walked around the room and introduced everyone and told a quick story about them. He was hilarious. I mentioned to the crowd that Bill and I have something in common, now that we're both 50. In ten more years, his age and my age will be the same as our underwear size!! What a hoot! (11/7/02)

BARRIE GILLESPIE ('71) [E] found the web site and dropped me a line. He says he really enjoys this site and wanted me to add his name and e-mail address to the e-mail links page. (It's been done, Barrie) He wants to know if anyone has any information on RODNEY MARSHALL ('71). I don't have any-- does anyone else? If so, drop barrie and e-mail. (11/7/02)

SEPTEMBER 2002
JIM DAVIS ('71)Hawthorne, Florida [E] sent me an e-mail on the occasion of his 50th birthday..."Well, I've just gone where I've never gone before... 50 years old. It's not scary, it's not mortifying, it's not decreptifying... it's just 50! I can still run and breathe and wakeboard!!!! The back pain from the running and the hard breathing from holding onto the rope from wakeboarding even out the memory of where my aches and pains come from! I can still play guitar...i just can't remember the words the way I used to and have to improvise more. It's fun to play make up the song as I go along. My son, Tom is now out of the Army and a PFC. My daughtter, Jenny will graduate from high school this year, May 2003. I have been happily married to a wonderful woman for 24 years and hope for 24 more. Our horse and dogs and cats are all fine and healthy. Our health is quite the same. We have been saying our paryers regularly . We occasionally cuss. We're not perfect, but very, very happy and hope th same for yall. Grow up,, grow wiser, but never older in the mind...stay young and strong keep up with their ideas and ideals........ they might be your future!!! oh, dont forget we outnumber them and vote more often....... "Old age and treachery will overcome youthful exuberance every time"...... Peace and love to all of you" --- Welcome to the 50 CLUB, Jimbo. It's always good to hear from you! (9/29/02)

LINDA (DUPRIEST) PADRON ('71)San Antonio, Texas [E] is having her cancer surgery (masectomy and breast reconstruction) on Monday, the 23rd at Methodist Hospital. She wanted me to make sure to thank the scores and scores of people that have sent her cards, e-mail, and called her on the phone. Hey, believe me, she's a fighter! Hell, I should know! She's got a positive attitude going and she's gonna' do just fine after doing her chemo over the next several months. (9/18/02) ***UPDATE**** Linda's six-hour surgery went very well. Both of her surgeons said there were no problems and that they aaccomplished what they intended to. My thanks to CAROL LIPSEY ('70) for coming by and spending time with me while we waited. SARAH ESCOBEDO ('71) also came by during the day to check on Linda as did DANNY PADRON ('69), ED HOLLEY ('72) and my brother, BOB DUPRIEST ('75). Linda's daughter, KATIE ROSE, a sophomore at the new Warren High School, was there and whipped me several times at "Crazy 8's." Linda is in room 357 at the Methodist Hospital and might be going home on Thursday or Friday. (9/24/02)

JILL TEMPLE (72)San Antonio, Texas [E] surprised the daylights outta' me on Thursday. I was coming our of the "little boys room" at work and was walking towards my office, when I saw this lady sitting at the front desk of the Somerset ISD central office. A chill ran up my spine and I had a flashback to 1967. I thought to myself, that can't be her. I thought I was looking at Jill Temple. I started to walk away, took another look and she said, "Dennis!" It WAS Jill!! What the heck was she doing in our office!!! Well, we hugged, she came to my office and told me everything. She had sold her beautiful riverside condo in New Braunfels and decided to go back to college! She moved back to San Antonio, where she lives with her cousin and her cousin's husband near Somerset. She is enrolled and commutes to Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos. She wants to become a teacher, a career technology teacher, to be specific. Anyway, because our school district is close to where Jill lives, she came over to talk to our curriculum director as part of one of her school projects. To make a long story short, which is too late at this point, Jill and I had a great conversation and promised that we'll be doing lunch or dinner real soon. She is such a dear lady! We had lunch about four years ago, when she worked for city hall in New Braunfels. She still has the wonderful twinkle in her eyes and giggling smile. (9/20/02)

DOUG CRAWFORD ('70)San Antonio, Texas [E] called me, last night! He is such a fantastic friend. Oh, we may not talk to one another for a year or two, but, when we do, it's like we had just talked the day before. He's got one son in college and one son getting out of the navy and going back to school. After 18 years at USAA, the Doug-meister is now working with AFLAC Insurance. You know, the one with that crazy duck and Yogi Berra in the TV commercials! In fact, he hopes to set up a meeting at our school district to tell us all about the great benefits of being covering by AFLAC. Can't wait to see him, again! (9/18/02)

JOE HINOJOZA ('72)Lubbock, Texas [E] visited this web site, today, and decided to call me. We had a great conversation. He told me an hilarious story! His name was originally spelled with an "S": Hinojosa. It's that way in the 1970 yearbook. When he joined the military, the government screwed things up and spelled his name with a "Z". After years of trying to get all his governemnt records corrected to no avail, Joe gave in and legally changed the spelling of his name with the "Z." What a hoot! He tells me that his dad stills lives on Campfire in Westwood Village/Lackland Terrace! Thanks for calling Joe, be sure to stay in touch! (9/18/02)

PAM MINNEMAN ('73)Austin, Texas [E] found my web site by accident and sent in this e-mail..."Hey Dennis! I stumbled across this site when I was looking for a cousin's address on line. What a gold mine!!! Thank you so much for taking the time and making the effort to do this. I sincerely agree with you that my time at John Jay were some of the best. Please post my e-mail address on your list: PAM (MINNEMAN) RABE ('73)pmrabe@yahoo.comAlso add: ALAN MINNEMAN ('74)coastrak@flash.net and, finally, please add PEGGY (HOLDEN) ENDERLIN('75)Peggy.Enderlin@tcb.state.txAgain, thank you so much for doing this. I was in the loop for reunion's and such for the Class of '73 but lost track, when we moved to Denver, CO for three years. I am back in Austin, TX and would love to get in touch with some of the old gang. Cheers!" --- Pam, it's good to hear from you and I'm glad you like my website. Hope ya' get back in touch with classmates. (914/02) SPECIAL UPDATE: After sending Pam a thank you e-mail for her e-mail, I got a letter from her in today's mail (9/17/02) with an outstanding donation!! I nearly had a stroke!! Let me share her letter with everyone along with a photo!"Dear Dennis, After sending you that e-mail, last night, I spent some time reading the many e-mails and information posted on the site. I am absolutely stunned and humbled at all the time and the effort that you have put into keeping all of us interested folks informed. Bless you! I am sending a donation to keep this well of information flowing! just a few quick lines of what I have been doing since JJHS. After graduation from Texas A&M in 1978, I moved to Austin to work in the medical industry where I met and married my husband Doyle in 1981. Yes, he is a UT grad, actually hi whole family is, so, things get interesting around our house during the college football season. In 1987, my father passed away at Wilford Hall from congestive heart failure. In 1993, my husband and I adopted a little girl named, Jessie. In 1996, my mother passed away from a heart attack while we were in Las Vegas celebrating here 71st birthday. With both of my parents gone, I do not get back to San Antonio much. In 1998, we moved to Denver, Colorado for 3 years. I learned three things there: Colorado is really a beautiful place with lots to do; that there really can be life outside of Texas; and that there are people in this world who have never been to Texas!! We were there when the Columbine shootings happened. The school was just 8 miles from our house. Although, we did not personally know anyone at the school, it was impossible not to run into people who did. Everyone was in shock and walked around like zombies. When September 11th happened, it was like Columbine all over again on a much larger scale. In fact, the pilot of Flight 93 (which crashed in Pennsylvania) and his family loved in our old neighborhood there. In 2001, we moved back to Austin, where I am a stay-home mom. My husband's previous employer offered him a position that he could not refuse. It was hard to leave Colorado and all the friends we made there, but, my husband's family is all in the Austin area. One thing that I find really ironic is that most of my former John Jay classmates are grandparents and, yet, I have a 9-year-old daughter!! She is the joy of my life and will be a handful when she reaches her teens! However, it will all be worth it because I cannot imagine life without her. The fours years at John Jay were some of the best years of my life. I remember talking to Ms. Johnnie Dooley about how close our particular class was and how unusual that was for such a large high school. My husband was blown away at the reunion because of the number of people who showed up. He and MARTHA MICKAN's husband had to make several trips to the liquor warehouse around the corner because we kept running out of beer! Again, thank you for all your hard work!!! I will be going to the site often and hope to catch up on all my friends from John Jay High School!! You will be hearing from me, again!! Cheers!" ---This is the kind of letter that I love to receive from classmates! Pam, thanks so much for the profile and thank you so very, very much for the donation to keep the website going strong!!! If you've ever in San Antonio, call me and I'll let ya buy dinner!!! LOL (9/17/02)

DON HARING ('70)Anchorage, Alaska [E] my friend (more like a brother) of almost 40 years, touched base with me---"Dennis, Sorry to hear about Linda and your mom, but, knowing the two of them they certainly have the will to beat anything that confronts them. I will pass along the news to the rest of the family. I just got back from spending two weeks in Hawaii (my first visit). Spent three days on Oahu and a week on the big island. My favorite activities were taking a helicopter tour around the volcano and then going back later in the evening and walking up to the lava flow. The terrain on the big island ranges from desert on the west side and tropical rain forest on the east. As for the job things are starting to progress along. We started work on the missile defense program at the end of May. The staff is putting in long hours but it is an interesting project. Fall has already come to the interior of Alaska and I am sure the first snow of the winter is not far away. Take care of yourself." ...Hey Donnie!! I love hearing from you and knowing that all is well! Have you contacted KATHY KEISOR ('72) yet??? Tell her I still love her (but make sure her husband isn't around!!) Keep me posted!! (9/8/02)

MARK ROBBINS ('71)Wiesbaden, Germany[E] sent me an e-mail. It's great to hear from him after all this time... "Dear Dennis, I enjoy your website immensely and commend you for the time, effort and caring to, as you say, "Keep the flame alive." I got the biggest kick out of looking at our senior class pictures that you have posted. None have quite the transitional affect as yours, but then of course, the webmaster deserves a little more than the average Mustang! I'd like to provide you with the following information so your website, where I personally am concerned, will be current: I now reside in Wiesbaden, Germany, an executive manager employed by the Department of Defense as a civilian hire. My particular field of expertise is that of Federal Acquisition Management. Did my undergraduate work at University of Tennessee and graduate work at Florida Institute of Technology. I remarried in 1999, a beautiful wife of Russian nationality with an exceptional mind, sweet personality and heart of gold (her name is Yanvarina). We relocated to Germany January 2001 & plan on being here for another 3 1/2 years. Address: CMR 444, Box 728, APO AE 09096 Home Phone: 011-49-611-360-5854 Email: kramstar@msn.comMy sister, Vanessa Kieffer, recently informed me Linda had been diagnosed with breast cancer. I sent her an email yesterday, but in case she didn't receive, please tell her we're with her and she's in our prayers. That even when we may not realize it; even if we feel we don't deserve it, God is always by our side to catch us when we fall or become broken. Linda has always been my friend, she's such a good, true and sincere person. I'm there should she need anything at all. If you would, please let me know how I can get in touch with Quinten Biles. Last I knew (91 Reunion), he & Donna were still living in San Antonio. I'd really like to contact them. A phone number or email address would be great... thanks! It's been a pleasure. Keep up the good work, a big howdy to all, and you see... love has even found its way to Europe!" ...Thanks for the prayers and warm wishes, Mark. See if you can find me any BEATLES stuff from Germany!! If, there is anyone that can give Mark information on Quinten and Donna (White) Biles, send him the info. I'll do some checking myself. (9/8/02)

KEVIN PETERSON ('71) [E] has some good news to share with us all. "Hey Dennis, I don't write often, but I do read all you send. Thought I would offer something for the next whenever you feel like it update. I have been putzing around since graduating in 72, working on getting a Pilots License. FINALLY finished. Monumental task - between active duty, civilian work, family, college, etc., etc. The past 6 months have been tougher than normal, because my bride has been ill - they took a 10 inch mass out of her stomach (not cancer), and screwed up the surgery, not once, but twice. She had to have a third surgery, and in that one, she had a stroke. Slowly recovering, but it is a daily battle. Anyway, the pilot license was MY dream and a goal. Not THE goal - lots more to learn and do, but A goal. Pic attached is me and the noble rental steed. If I find the one I want, I will buy, but that is one of those hard decisions. Thanks for listening. And if/when I get down there again, you are welcome to be a victi...errrr ...passenger. I remember what a teacher told me in Senior year when I said something I was doing was too hard - "If it was easy, anybody could do it, and you would not be special." I feel that way about my license. I am a PILOT." ... Kevin, way to go on the pilot's license! I don't know about going flying, though. My dad used to own Airways Aviation Flight School with several planes at the S.A. Airport and I am the ONLY family member that never went flying with him!! Too scared and I don't try to get inside anything that I outweigh!!! (9/8/02)

LINDA DUPRIEST ('71)San Antonio, Texas[E], my sister, has breast cancer. My mom and sister were diagnosed with cancer within about 10 days of one another, a few weeks ago. My mom with colon cancer and Linda with breast cancer. My mom, who had already beaten thyroid cancer, had an operation and they removed about an 18" portion of her upper intestine and all lab results show that the cancer did not spread beyond that and she does not have to have chemo or radiation or anything. She is healing well and we're all very happy. Linda faces a harder road, After a couple attempts to remove cancerous lumps, she now has to have a masecotomy of her right breast. She will have the operation and reconstructive surgery on September 23rd. She's being brave about it and knows she's gonna beat it. After the operations she will undergo chemotherapy until about December or so. Anyway, I asked her permission to tell y'all about it because so many people had heard things and wanted to know. Linda's home address is 9019 Levelland, San Antonio, TX 78251. Her phone number is (210) 680-9019 and her e-mail is: linda_53us@yahoo.comif you want to contact her. She would love to hear from classmates. Your prayers and good wishes are always appreciated. (9/1/02)

AUGUST 2002
EILEEN YOUNG ('71)Brownsville, Texas [E]mugged me!!! This past Sunday, Elieen was in town and rang my door bell. Unfortunately, she visited me during my hibernation time. So, I met her at my famous "bathroom window". So there she was standing at the front of my house, in the yard in front of my window, while I stood in the bathroom. She brought me a cofee mug and I proceeded to rip open the window screen and I mean RIP! The mug was wrapped in a large box, so, rather than take the mug out of the box, I just ripped a bigger portion of the screen! (I do strange things when I first awaken from a deep sleep!). Anyway, it was a cool coffee mug with BATS flying in a cave! It is so cool. My friend ADAM WEST would love one, I'm sure!! Anyways, thanks for mugging me, Eileen!!!!! (8/13/02)

JULY 2002
KIM COLLIER ('73)San Antonio, Texasand I had dinner together this past Tuesday night! We met at the 410 Diner, for fried mushrooms, but, it was too packed, so, we went over to Florio's and had a great pepperoni and mushroom pizza and sub-sandwiches. I thought Kim had moved back to Miami a few years ago, when I lost touch with her, but actually she just went back there for training with a company called "E-Models," and came back, here, to San Antonio. Out of the blue, she calls me the other night and we made arrangements to have dinner. She looks as beautiful as ever, and if you remember anything about Kimberly, it's her bright eyes and beaming smile! She's a blonde, these days, instead of brunette, but she's still Kimbo!! We hadn't seen one another for about 31 years and I have to admit to feeling kinda' nervous, but she made me feel so at ease. She is just amazing and has lead an exciting life these past three decades. And talk about beautiful! WOW!! We spent three wonderful hours together laughing, crying, giggling, remembering the good old days and all that. Kim lives with her mom on an acre of land in southeast Bexar County. She's very much into wildlife, animals, conservation, nature and she goes hiking, camping, nature walking and stuff like that, every chance she gets. In fact, she just spent a weekend taking her niece to Matagorda Island. We're gonna make it a point to do some things together and maybe even set up a little get together for anyone that would like to meet with us for a night of laughs and fun, somewhere. She's lost touch with her classmates (she was in the Class of 1973, but graduated early in 1972). So, I'll keep ya' posted and maybe some of you can come out and meet with us for a good old time. I forgot to get her e-mail address, but, hey, I DO have her phone number!!! (7/25/02)

TONI JOLET ('71) [E] has found the web site. She writes, "That was like taking a walk down memory lane going down the list of E-mails, thought that I might add mine to the list for the "Class of '71" ! My email address is TParks1113@aol.com. Always enjoy reading the class reunion newsletter when it comes out. Take Care." ---Toni, it's so good to hear from you. Thanks for the comments about my web site. As for the class reunion newsletter that I USED to send out, well, I stopped that last year. I know it leaves a lot of people out of the "loop" for information on parties and reunions, but not enough people were helping out with the finances. I could not foot the majority of the bills anymore. I'd love to start it up all over again, but, until enough classmates send in money, I just can't do it. So, this "electronic newsletter" is all that I can do. (7/20/02)

SHIRLEY ENGLISH ('70)Bulverde, Texas [E] Sent me an e-mail after I checked up on here after the flood. She lives in Bulverde. She writes... "Hi Dennis, I'm doing fine, very busy with grandchildren, god children and church! We survived the flood. We are so fortunate. So many people out here lost so much. JANICE SAMS ('70) is coming to San Antonio on Tuesday. I hope I get to spend some time with her. Take care of yourself! Love, Shirley. (7/15/02)

RICHARD OLSEN ('70)Massachusetts [E] snet me an update on the health of his brother, RANDY OLSEN ('71)... "Dennis, I spoke with Randy today. He collapsed the other day and is having further tests on his heart. His body seems to be under attack from many fronts. Thanks for your support and friendship to him over the years. Randy's email is rolsen@hotmail.comI saw your photos--substantive change for the better. I just returned from a few weeks in China; visited many factories where ten people sleep in an area the size of a normal living room. We truly live better than the Pharoahs did and certainly better than most of the population on this planet. Best wishes." --Richard thanks for the update. Your brother is in our prayers. (7/15/02)

WILLIAM "BILL" TONER ('72)Hondo, Texas [E]found this web site and sent in an e-mail... "Dennis, I live on a ranch west of Hondo, Texas and have two businesses: WWW.Comm-etc.com and WWW.Secocreek.com. Remember, Mr. Maxwell, our former English teacher at Jay? Well, he gets out this way, every once in a while. also another contact for you in MIKE RUIZ ('72) at Ken Bachelor Cadillac also a Class of '72 grad. He is one of General Motors Top 13 Best Mechanics in the USA for, like, the last 6 yrs. We have some good people under our belts." ---Good to hear from you, Bill. I have added your e-mail address to the list on this site. As for having some "good people under our belts," well, the last good person I had under my belt from John Jay was.... well, never mind, you don't know her! Yeee Haaa! (7/4/02)

HAPPY 50th BIRTHDAY TO ME!
I HAVE LOST MY MIND! IT HAS BEEN OVER 20 YEARS, SINCE I LAST SHAVED MY BEARD. TONIGHT, JULY 3rd I JUST SHAVED THE ENTIRE THING OFF! IT WILL BE THE VERY LAST TIME I EVER AM TOTALLY SHAVED! GEEZ, I HAVE MORE CHINS THAN A CHINESE PHONE BOOK! WELL, I HAD TO SO SOMETHING STUPID FOR MY 50th BIRTHDAY ON JULY 7th! TAKE A LOOK!!

I CAN'T BELIEVE I DID THIS!!! I SWEAR, NEVER, NEVER AGAIN!!!

CLICK HERE!MIKE LOVELL ('72) DESIGNED THIS FOR ME!

REACTIONS FROM CLASSMATES...and my replies....
(After you read through these, be sure to check out the latest "Classmate News" that follows)

MERRY FIELD ( '75): Hi Dennis, I am glad you shaved your beard. You look great. You need to show off your nice face and beautiful eyes. Happy B-Day! I can't believe you're 50. You don't have any wrinkles. I have been traveling a lot. Just got back from Wash D.C. Next week, we are taking a camping family vac up the coast to Oregon. We will visit Crater Lake and the Oregon coast. But I am most excited about going to the SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL in Ashland. Here's to a great year! Love, Merry --- Thanks for the note, Merry. Seeing you at the reunion two years ago was one of the most special highlights of the entire event for me! Have fun on your vacation and buy me something!!! (7/20/01)

CAROL LIPSEY ('70): who lives in the Bulverde area, sent me a great birthday card in the mail that says... "Are you in some kind of hurry to get old?!! Hey, hey, hey, Dennis, Let's do lunch again. We should have made that a given for every birthday of yours...but I didn't want to hog all your birthdays. We'll have to get together when you let me know what best works for you:) ! Welcome to the 50's club, life is just beginning now!:) Been thinking of you and praying all is well with you! We stayed dry at our house, during the flood, just couldn't get out much...but I'm not bothered.We've been up to our fences in water! I love you and your KIND, THOUGHTFULL, HEART! Love you, Love you! ---Wow! You always make me feel so good, Carol. Thanks for the birthday wishes and your love. You always have mine! (7/15/02)

CLYDE GIBSON ('70): Hi, 50 guy! Must say you look very lovely with out that hair. So, the big 5-0, it's just another day and keep counting now backwards. In other words, we topped out for our age, in real life I am 51, but, in my head I am now 49, so we go back. Just my way of staying young, ha! Well, it will be one year and I am cancer free. All my check-up are looking better. Have my next one in October. Take care. ---That's great news about the cancer, Clyde! The best news of the year! Hang in there! (7/15/02)

MARK NORMAN ('71): Dennis, Somehow I overlooked this. I was travelling. Boy, you sure are old dude! Happy Birthday. ---Hail, Markus Normanus! Good to hear from you. Hope that all is well! Thanks for the birthday greeting and wisecrack! LOL (7/15/02)

JERI BARGER ('71): mailed me a birthday card and note... "Dennis, wherever the next year takes you...enjoy the ride and have a happy birthday! You seeem to have a knack for always enjoying the ride! I hope you always do. Saw the pics without your beard. Wow, are you handsome! I love the new look. It's nice to see what was under all that hair. If you're going to have hair on your face, I vote for picture #2 (the goatee). Otherwise I like the clean shaven look. It makes you look much younger than 50! Glad to hear you're keeping the web site. Keep up the good work and take care, HANDSOME. Lots of love." --Holy Shaving Cream, Batman! Now, that sure lifts my spirits! All you girls are great to me. Thanks for the card, Jeri. That means a lot to me, Love to you, too! (7/15/02)

TONY PELLETIER('71): Dennis, Happy Belated Birthday!!! I've been off the website for a bit and missed the event. I also recently shaved off a beard. I started growing it during a scouting expedition with my son and it began a string of good luck at work. We ultimately drilled 10 consecutive successful wells without a dry hole. The beard became something of a talisman and I was actually ordered by our board of directors not to shave. Unfortunately, we recently drilled two dry holes and I have since shaved it off - time to change the 'mojo' (not that I'm superstitious or anything). The problem with beards at our age is that there is just so much gray in them. I had visions of Sean Connery or Ernest Hemingway but my wife and daughter called me 'Papa Smurf'!! The truth is a humbling thing at times. I am glad to know that you are keeping the website open. It has been a great conduit for information and linking up with old friends. FYI - BILLY POINTER ('72) has just completed a tough fight with cancer (surgery, radiation & chemo). His current prognosis is very good. I had lunch with Bill a few weeks ago and his attitude is great. He's lost a bunch of weight and looks good but doesn't recommend the process to anyone. I'll tell you - he is still one tough linebacker - I think it will take a lot to knock him out of action. Bill would never make a public announcement but I thought you and his other friends would like to know. I know he would appreciate everyone's prayers and support. Keep up the good work. ---Thanks for the birthday wishes and for the information on Billy Pointer. Rest assured, he is in our prayers! (7/9/02)

HARRY LINDGREN ('70): Hey, Dennis, Happy belated birthday, was out of town at a family reunion. I like the goatee and mustache, but keep it close. Much better. Does it turn on a light???????? the GUY's should have done something outragious for the 15 year anniversary.. We might still can. Put on your thinking cap. Let me know, I,m always game for something wild, even you (just kidding, or am I?????) Take care. ---Whew! Sometimes I don't know about you, dude! LOL Yeah, we should have done something for the 15th Anniversary of THE GUYS, but, I don't know what! They won't let us in any of the strip-joints in town after our last escapades!!! (7/9/02)

GLENN BURCHARD ('69): Dennis, Sorry I'm a couple of days late-I was blessedly free of e-mail access. Hope you had a fantastic 50th. I vote for the "stash" only look. You've got a Wilfred Brimley thing going on there that should make all the 'pretty young things' want you to father them. In any event, you'll always be a winner with whatever look you choose. And ya'll don't tease me now about a bash next year. ---Thanks, Glenn, I had a great birthday! I haven't had a chance to talk with Danny, but, I'll keep everyone posted on any party plans. (7/9/02)

CHERYL GOODMAN ('72): Dennis, I'm getting a lot of viruses lately...did you send me some e-mails? I wanted to check before I open any. ---Dear Cheryl, I am glad to say that I am virus free. Those two years of weekly penicillin shots cleared everything up. No blisters, no scars! Oh, you probably meant computer virus! Nope, don't have any of those either. (7/9/02)

KATHY KEISOR ('72): Happy Birthday! You just can't be 50!!! That means I'll be there soon, too... Have a great day and an even better year. Thanks for sharing the "beard" pictures. Aren't you just the cutest?! I just read all the b-day messages you received. How nice to hear from so many people. Now listen, the overwhelming message was that you look better and much younger without the beard. So why grow it back?? I think I liked the goatee look and the no beard look the best. Didn't like the "mustache only" at all. Very funny reactions from your family... especially your niece. What a hoot.You are loved! Enjoy your blessings. Love is all around, Kathy PS. Is there anybody you DIDN'T have a crush on in high school?? It's too funny to read your responses to people. Always the flirt...Much love. ---Right back at ya', Kath! Thanks to you, LOVE HAS BEEN ALL AROUND for me these past 34 years! They say that you never forget your first love. I know I won't. Me? A flirt? No way, Jose! I have been true-blue to you for 34 years! I'll even give you a list of girls who will swear to that for me! Honest!! Dennis -n- Kathy!! (7/6/02 & 7/8/02)

DANNY PADRON ('69): Dennis - Just wanted to wish you a happy 50th! You're the best! --Dan, do ya think you and I can organize another party for next summer? Let's get together and figure things out! (7/8/02)

BILL MIZELL ('70): Hey 'Bro, Bold move, but looks good. I like the non-Tavia (Fiddler On The Roof) look better pictures 2 - 4: ("If I were a rich man, dabba dooby dooby, dobba dooby dooby, dooby doooo".) I think that the third picture suits you the best (partial to mustache's myself you know But.....of course........I've never aspired to be a judge of MEN'S BEAUTY either!!!! O.K., O.K., don't bother to respond........I know what you are going to say, "I'VE GOT YOUR TAVIA HANGING RIGHT HERE! And by the way........Who the hell asked your opinion!?!? YEAH, YEAH, YEAH" ---Bill, you crack me up! That is hilarious. I hope everything at your home is OK. I know that Ranger Creek was cut-off when the bridge washed out during the flood. Get in touch with me and let me know how things are. By the way, the character's name from "Fiddler On The Roof" is: TEVYE, you nimrod! (7/8/02)

MICKEY MAHLER ('70): Boy you look good!............ no wonder no one else could get any women in our class! You just knocked off 20 years! Hope things are well with you buddy! Tell everyone I said hello! I have emailed with Casanova and Valentine....thanks to you! ---Mick-ster! It is fantastic to hear from you! I still have your autographed baseball card, framed and hanging on the wall in my hallway! You are Number 1!!! (7/8/02)

GEORGE HUNTER ('70): Dennis, Happy belated Birthday my good (non-bearded) friend!!!! So sorry to have been out of the net for this past weekend.. or I would called you at midnight 7 July! and congratulated you as well!! If I were to tabluate all the votes cast regarding your beard.. I would say the "yeas" have it by asking you to keep the beard off! I must say my good Beatle lover friend that I agree with the crowd. Keep shaving, you'll get used to it in a couple of days. Great hearing from you as always and as last time, I am still "Serving our Country" in Germany. Plan to attend the Veterans of Foriegn Wars National Convention in Nashville 25 Aug-1Sep. Next year's Convention will be back in San Antonio!! Yes, another guarantee that we will see each other again to have a couple of cold ones, perhaps even at Ralph's again! Your bud forever! P.S. No more beard.... you are cool without it, too, you know, and don't come back with "I'm cool with it too" statement. LOL :) ---Wow all the way from Germany! It's great to hear from you, George. I really don't know what to do about the beard, but, it's been a blast talking to people about it! It's a hoot! (7/8/02)

MATT DELANEY ('70): Dear Dennis, It's not quite Mr. Whipple, but you're close. Rimless steel glasses would help, and you need to wear more white. Hope things are going o.k. Still the same here. I'll be heading for the Sierras for part of September, and will be in San Antonio for Thanksgiving. See you then. Thanks for offering to keep us posted on our classmates and families regarding the floods. I can't believe the devastation. I visit a lot of those places once a year, and saw on the news broadcasts, here, places I had actually walked, when you could walk there. ---Yep, it is amazing, Matt. They still predict more rain, but we've been lucky. We've been dry for three days! Keep your fingers crossed! (7/8/02)

SOTERO LUCIO ('70): Feliz Cumpleanos! Hola, just thought I'd wish you a happy 50th and welcome you to the club. Has it really been that long? Anyway, we had our flood, here in Houston, last year, and I'm sorry to see San Antonio's flooded on TV. An old friend from SBC. just moved to Boerne and TINA MUNOZ ('70), one of our classmates, lives in Helotes. Dude, do me a favor and get ROBERT CARROLL ('69) to e-mail me. Thanks a million.... hasta la vista ... # 22 ---Will do Sotero. I'm on vacation this week and will tell Bob as soon as I get back to work. (7/8/02)

PHIL ORRICK ('69): Happy B-Day dude! Just got back from out of town to recieve your message. I shaved mine last year and it freaked out my 12 year old son so much, I had plenty of encouragement to grow it back! Would love to hear about any plans for next summer, I was so dissappointed last year that I had the wrong weekend, really ticked me off! Take care and enjoy life. Life is good in Austin. ---Phil, you first president of the John Jay drama club, "The Spotlighters", good to hear from you! Nothing is set in stone, but I think, maybe, I can get another party together next summer. I'll keep ya posted! (7/8/02)

STEVE FLORES ('70): Happy Birthday Dennis!!!!!!!!!!!! ---Thank you, Steve!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (7/8/02)

DAWN DAVID ('73): Hi Dennis! Hope you had a great 50th birthday! Sorry I didn't know about it. I still plan to send you some funds but I'm not working this summer (first time with the school system). So at the latest it will be after I start back in August. Please don't give up the website, I know everyone who's discovered it loves keeping up with news from classmates. By the way, I vote for no beard. What'd your mom think? ---Hey, Dawn! Geez, I love hearing from you! What did my mom think? Well, after catching her breath, she said I looked just like her brother Jack, who's been dead for like 15 years! (7/8/02)

GLENN WHITAKER ('72): Dennis, The only thing I can add to what my brother, Warren, says about you shaving your beard is.....YOU LOOK GREAT!! YOU BETTER GET A BIG STICK, YOU'RE GOING TO HAVE WOMEN ALL OVER YOU NOW!! For me, I'll still in the Air Force stationed in Hawaii! Life is good! I'm flying in to San Antonio this coming Sunday and I'm looking forward to seeing my Mom/Stepfather, and two brothers. I'm also going to catch up with the Tex-Mex and margaritas!! Take care and Warren and I might stop in to see you! --Glenn, Are you borrowing the use of an air force jet or flying commercial? Up, up and away!! (7/8/02)

BRENDA GIBBS ('73): Hi Dennis and Happy Belated Birthday. Being from the class of 73, I still have a "little" while before the half a century hits me. My family and I live in Castroville on the river road and we were told to leave our home. Now, I have lived in that house for 20 years and never did I believe something like would happen. My husband was born in Castroville. His parents have lived on the river for 63 years and they have never seen anything like that. Our families were lucky. We have a home to come back to. My children learned to fish on that river. We've had many a picnics on the river bottom. I never ever dreamed that I might loose my home to a river that has brought us so much joy in my children's life time and in my husband's lifetime. I talked to the old timers and they all said that where my house sits, it's at the highest part of the river. And sure enough, it's OK. So after the clean up and the news is no longer the news, come to Castroville. We welcome all. And Dennis, one of my best friends, NENA MILLIGAN (74) was vacationing in Ohio and saw the news. She calls me and tells me to go to her house in Devine. So I thank her for ALL her comfort and prayers. She is the BEST. Now for the beard....Don't grow it back. ---Glad to hear that everything is ok for you in Castroville and thanks for the birthday wishes! (7/8/02)

TAMMY GASS ('77): Hi Dennis, your photo's looked great. We had a great time with our 25th reunion last month. Hope your surviving the floods. You just took years off your self, wish we could do that as well. Again thanks for keeping us posted on all the Jay going ons, and I hope that you have a great birthday!!! Maybe the rain will stop so that you can enjoy it even move. And again thanks for all the help and ideas you gave me for making our class reunion a great success. I am looking forward to our 30th already...Have a great day! and Happy Birthday. --Thanks Tammy and I'm glad that the reunion was such a great success! (7/8/02)

KENNY SUNDBERG ('70): Dear Dennis, Though I am not an E-Mail kind of guy and do so love my computer illiteracy, I have been able to track you and the people I shared John Jay with through you and my mother's WebTV. Your photos are stunning! Your transformation in stages was fun. I was speaking of you just last night, actually. Your work for all of the reunions and the newsletter are above and beyond the call. I am certain that without your efforts I would be more ignorant than I am of my classmates and the events that have kept us all in touch and getting together. Thank you so very much. Any news about me is boring to say the very least. My last visit to S.A. was for the services for Mr. Schreiber. Not a real good reason to visit, but a must for so many who were so impacted and influenced by him. I missed your last shin-dig and found out that Mr. Casanova was in attendance. He was another very influential guy in my pre-John Jay days. He was my health teacher and my basketball coach at Sul Ross. This is before John Jay was built and the prospect of going to O.W. Holmes was very real. I suppose I am being tangential. I live in Nebraska since my retirement from the Marine Corps. I live in a village of less than 300 people and find the life style slow and peaceful. It is quite the change from my bashing about the world. For some reason it is very correct for me. I have not written a letter this long for quite some time so I feel compelled to close. I hope all is well for you in your life. My very best to you and do tell any that would listen, my best wishes go out to them. ---Kenny, you have made my day! It's great to hear from you after all these years. Please be sure to give me a call the next time you're in town! All the best! (7/7/02)

RENITA FOSTER ('71): I always thought you had a handsome face, so, I'm glad you shaved it off. Sorry ,I'm not there to celebrate with you. I turn 50 in November-ugh! I'm currently getting ready to return to Normandy with 82nd and 101st veterans again this August. We will be staying in Sainte Mere Eglise for about two weeks. After chasing around the infantry since September 11, it will be a nice change. There's a possibility I will head for Afghanistan in September, but no official word yet. I still hope to be home for good in two years! Have a good one Dennis! ---Thanks, Lt. Colonel Foster! We'll have to link up for special manuevers the next time you're in town! Yee haaa!!! (7/7/02)

DON GOODMAN ('70): No fancy card. Just a HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. I hope you have your boat when you go out LOL. Just letting you know I am still alive and well after another back operation where they fused the bone and put 4 screws in it. Now, I can say I have been screwed and feel it. Still in Nashsville where we have one of the highest sales tax, now, 9.75%, and country music keeps dying more and more here. More into sports here now. Take care and I hope I can visit SA again soon. You shaved your beard and I keep losing more hair. I turn 51 in September. --- Hi, Don! Good to hear from you. If I had one wish for my birthday, it would be that my hair wasn't falling out, too!! (7/7/02)

CATHY BACON ('70): Hey, Dennis, Happy Birthday!! Here's a photo of me--also no beard, but then I NEVER had one. Managing to stay at the one-chin level, thanks to 3-4 times running/exercise every week. Still at Langley Air Force Base, but might have one more move before retirement in 2005. ---Thanks for the birthday wishes, Colonel Bacon. Part of me is saluting you right now! (7/7/02)

SUSAN BREIDENBACH ('71): There's that sweet face that I remember! Happy Birthday, Dennis. ---Thanks for remembering, Susie Q! (7/7/02)

BRENDA STEFFENS ('71): Hey Dennis, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!! The big "50" ! The pic of you without a beard looks wonderful-why didn't you did this before now? You look 20 years younger! Just wait til I email you a pic of me on my 50th. ha ha BIll saw the pic and said you should have done this sooner- watch out the ladies will be knocking on your door. ---Everybody tells me the ladies will be knocking down my door. Where are they???? (7/7/02)

RAMON SILVA ('74): Dennis, I just wanted to wish you a "Happy Birthday" and commend you on your "new" look. You truly have been blessed in so may ways. --- My greatest blessing is having all you wonderful folks as friends! Thank you! (7/7/02)

KAY COMPTON ('71): She sent me two e-mail cards that were fabulous and then she called me at 6:30 p.m., tonight, from her car, on the way back to Dallas from Houston! Thanks for remembering, Kay! (7/7/02)

BRENDA STOUT ('71): Happy Birthday! Let me know how it feels to be 50!! ---Thanks for the hilarious e-mail card! It really cracked me up, Brenda! My love to you, too! (7/7/02)

EILEEN YOUNG ('71): Hiya Dennis!!!! I looked and looked for the perfect card to send you. I looked in the stores and I surfed the web until my skin got all pruney. Where was that unique card to send to Dennis on his 50th birthday??? The one that said it all?? The one with the mandatory Beatles reference???? Couldnt find it...so I did this instead....LOL Hope you like it...... By the way....love the pics...for my 50th...coming up in November.... I am thinking of having all the color stripped out of my hair and going silvery grey. I figure if I dont like it, I can always put the color back in. Maybe even change it ..... something in mustang blue maybe??? HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIDDO!!!!!!!! And to catch you up on what I have been doing since I left Brownsville at the end of September.... I now live in Georgetown...just north of Austin. I was lucky enough to find a job within two weeks of relocating. I give tours at Inner Space Caverns and I am enjoying almost every minute of it. Certainly is different LOL. One thing about this job.....you can really see and understand how the surface environment impacts what is happening beneath our feet. This lack of rainfall we had been dealing with....the cave was drying up. Several pools had dropped as much as three feet or dried up completely. With the recent rains...many of those pools filled up overnight. The cave is wet and glistening ..... dripping and growing again. So if you are in this area...stop by and say hello.....(Exit 259 West off I-35)....if you can catch me on the surface that is LOL. Take care...stay safe..and have a happy birthday. ---Thanks so much for the birthday wishes, the update, and the serenade! You're the tops! (7/7/02)

CLAIR NEYLAND ('70): Dennis, I looked at all the photos and I vote for the one where you have the mustache only. You look great there! ---WOW! Whatever you want, you got, Claire!!! I'd grow anything you want!!!! (7/6/02)

LOUIS FIGUEROA ('70): Well, Dennis, what you need now is a great BIG STICK..to ward off all the women coming your way......hahahahahahahaha, ya' looking good, keep the mustache, makes you look distinguished. keep the FLAME burning.... later. ---Good to hear from you, Louis! I've already started growing everything back! (7/6/02)

NATHAN WILLIS ('70): Much better!!!! Who was that Masked Man???????? And did you see the size of that horse??? ---You always crack me up, Nate! Thanks for the note. (7/6/02)

BECKIE AUSTIN ('75): Dennis, You look GREAT!!!. I know the rest of us feel the same way. So, don't grow it back. I bet it is a lot cooler, too. Say, "Hey, you!" toyour baby brother, Bobby, for me. All is well in Louisiana." -- Hey, Beck-ster!! I'll see Bobby, tomorrow, at my mom & dad's for my SURPRISE birthday party! As for not growing the beard back, well, we'll see! (7/6/02)

LINDA BULLARD ('73): Happy 50th Birthday Dennis...You are a life line to many of us Mustangs. It is so good to hear from you in the midst of all this flooding. I am safe here in my home in Leon Valley. But I am sure some of our classmates are battling the flood waters and I am sad about that. I hope you have a wonderful Birthday. Take care and God Bless you. ---Thank you for the birthday greetings, Linda! Glad you're safe and sound. (7/6/02)

DOUG WHITE ('72): ALOHA DENNIS! I have just returned from a wonderful cul-de-sac fireworks party here in Kapalua, Maui and all the friendship, comraderie, and thankfullness should have allowed me to sleep easily (not to mention the wine), however, I couldn't sleep, so, I checked my e-mail and was pleased to see your letter to me and was amused to see the pics of the "new" clean-shaven you! Reading the classmate notes, takes my mind back to a life and time that was indeed SPECIAL. Maybe, it was all the chaos of the Vietnam war or the generational rebellion that a lot of us went through. maybe, it was just the drug induced feelings of tranquility, but, our time was UNIQUE. Whenever I read your writings on this site, a nice, warm sense of nostalgia seems to occur. I'm sure a lot of people express similar feelings to you. You should be proud because it's all because of you and your deep sense of loyalty to a wonderful time that gives us all an anchor to our past. I'll be sending you a donation and my heartfelt thanks, but, now, I'm going to try to go to sleep, again, next to my wonderful wife and secure in the knowledge that my 9-year-old daughter, Michelle, is asleep and my new border collie puppy, Rosie, will bring smiles to us all tomorrow morning, when she invades our bedroom, attacks us, and says, with a wagging tail, "OK, you guys, let me out or I will pee on the new carpet." Tomorrow is a big island event-- the Kapalua Wine Festival. I'll be more than happy to raise a glass in your honor. Growing old is not so bad, sometimes. God bless bro' and MAHALO! -- Doug, thanks for the wonderful words from paradise. Hey, raise TWO glasses for me! (7/5/02)

BOB WILLIAMS ('69): You hansome devil, you. ---Geez, Bob! If you're gonna compliment me, the least you could do is spell "handsome" correctly!! Yeee haaa! Thanks! (7/5/02)

WARREN WHITAKER ('70): Now that's the Dennis I remember and love!! What a nice change. You know change is good Dennis, transition is hell but change is good-ha! There hasn't been a whole lot going on in my neck of the woods. Working hard and trying to keep the wife happy kinda stuff but nothing really to brag about. I try to let you know that I am thinking of you by sending an interesting email now and then. I start vacation on July 20 and Glenn will be in from Hawaii. I'll see if we can't look you up while we are out carousing. Take care my friend, and I hope to see you very soon!! ---Hey, that would be a blast to get out on the town with you and your brother. Be sure to call me! (7/5/02)

TARYN HOUGH ('72): Hi, Dennis, You look great!!!!! Shaving took 20 years off. Hmm -- wish there was something that easy to take 20 years off me! What a statement on your 50th birthday. We are busy but doing well. My daughter is still in school in Dallas, but will be transferring to finish her culinary degree to either Austin or Scottsdale in September. Alan and I are leaving for Indiana in a week for JoAnn Albea's daughter's wedding. They came to Oklahoma in May and we had a great time. Other than that, it's work, work, work, like everyone else. Stay well. It was great hearing from you. Best Wishes for a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! ---Taryn, it's always great to hear from you! Thanks for the birthday wishes! (7/5/02)

BILL NABORS ('69): Geez, Santa! Us kids will never forgive you! ---Hmmmm, is that a shot at me, Bill? Guess I should have wished that shaving took POUNDS off of me rather than YEARS! (7/5/02)

SANDY HICKEY ('72): Happy Birthday, Dennis. Saw the pix. Aren't you brave!!! Okay, I think you should stay with #2. I liked it best. Makes you look younger out of all the pictures. Add a little "Grecian" formula and shave a couple of years off! That's what we girls do, LOL! Happy 5 0hhhhhh No!--- Wow, that "goatee" sure seems to be the favorite of the girls! Guess that's how I'll let it grow back! Can't wait for the next reunion party! (7/5/02)

KARIN WALTERS ('69): Hey Dennis, You are crazy! I think I'll let the hair on my legs grow to commemorate something, can't think of anything to commemorate right at the moment...how about for your birthday? I'll send you a progression of photos. HA! You look best in the 2nd photo. You don't look 50 in the final outcome of your shaving! You are indeed ageless and full of youth! Happy Fourth of July. -- I wanna' see those pics, Karin!!!

GLENN HUTTO ('71): Dude! You look better without the beard. I'm not saying you look good without the beard - I'm just saying you look better - that's all. hahahahahaha I love you, man! P.S. When you get those pictures of Karin Walter's legs, please forward them to me - I'll pay any price! ---Hey, Hut! You got a deal on those pics! Let me talk to Karin. Maybe I can get a VIDEO of her, out of the deal! LOL (7/5/02)

BETTY CONSANI ('70): HAPPY BIRTHDAY YOU OLD TOOTER, YOU!!!! I will never turn 50 ! On June 6th, I celebrated the 21st anniversary of my 29th birthday :) .....my kids and hubby had a surprise dinner party at my favorite restaurant in San Francisco (SCOMA's-its on Fisherman's Wharf). We had a great time. Lots has happened...On June 15th, my youngest child was married. We had a lovely wedding on the beach in Lake Tahoe. I will send photographers pics when we get them...but I will attach one picture that we have. My sincerest wishes for a wonderful birthday. --Thanks, and my best wishes of happiness for your daughter and her new husband.

FRANK "RIP" DOUVRY: I have to say the second one looked pretty good. Sorry, you haven't heard from me for a while. The job situation at EDS has kept me scrambling. I am taking the family to Panama City Beach on Saturday for a couple of weeks and interviewing with a perspective client in Jacksonville, on Tuesday. I hope I can write some of the trip off as a business expense!!!! Anyway, stay dry and have a great 4th and 50th. I will join you shortly. Hugs and kisses.---Thanks for the note, Ripster! You signed it "hugs and kisses." Uhh, well, I... hey! I got enough problems!!! LOL

STEVE "ROB" ROBINSON ('70): Happy Birthday, Dennis! I'm already 50 and feeling 12. I'm still held captive in a smokeshop somewhere in the jungles of San Marcos, Texas. Happy Fourth of July! ---I need to make a quick trip and see ya' real soon, Steve. Does IH-25 North still suck with construction?? Have a great 4th!

VANCE VERBECK ('69): Cool! Glad to see you have a face. With all that beard you remind me of the Z Z Top concert, I saw. Have a Happy 4th, and a Happy Birthday. 50! That sounds young to me. Take care! --- Thanks, Vance!

KATIE MILLER ('69): Dennis, I think you look wonderful! I'd snuggle up in a flash. Have a great 4th, and God bless you as you reach that monumental age. (My middle stepson celebrates his birthday on the 7th also! He is quite a bit younger...) I've already been there, done that! (Last year for me.) Love ya! --- Wow! That makes me feel great! How's that oak tree coming along???

SUSAN WITT ('71): Den! I love your "new" look! Much younger I think! Are you going to keep it a while? I am happily flying for Southwest Airlines, these days. Graduated the training school with a 97%. Everything you hear about them being a "fun luv-ing" airline is sooo true! I think making the switch was really the right thing for me to have done. Their benefits and bonuses are almost unbelieveable! I am based out in Oakland CA, at least until I can transfer back to Phoenix, but that may not be for some months yet. The Oakland area is beautiful and so much cooler than Phoenix! Though, I do miss being home with the family. It is fairly easy to commute there so I get to be home about 3 days a week. I hope your 50th is the happiest birthday ever for you! Luv Ya Man! ---Thanks, Su-Su, I love ya, too! By the way, Southwest Airlines in now going to charge FAT PEOPLE for TWO SEATS when they fly. Guess what airline I'm going to BOYCOTT!!! Next thing ya' know, I'll have to fly in BAGGAGE!! Talk some sense into those dudes!!!

LEE MRHA ('71): Dennis, HAPPY BIRTHDAY...!!! You are just as handsome without the beard, as with it... I catch up with you March next year... then I hit 50. Gee, isn't getting old such fun... LOL. Hey, take care my friend. Best regards. --OK, I was waiting for someone to tell me that I look HANDSOME without the beard, but, why, WHY did it have to be a GUY that says it!!! Sheesh!! Thanks, Lee. (I think!!)

FRANK TRIMM ('69) & BRENDA (DUGGER) TRIMM ('71): Hey, I know you hate to hear this, but ,"not bad" Dennis. I remember someone that looked like your "after" picture from back in the 60's, lol. Hope you have a great birthday. I mentioned to Brenda that we need to get by and visit with you sometime, but you know how it goes, with family, work and a home. Brenda had sinus surgery 2 weeks ago, she's doing fine, she says that she can breathe so much better now. Our jobs are going well, still have one, at least. Hope you didn't get any water damage from the deluge this week, it would have been nice to have the total rainfall spread over a month or so though. Clyde Gibson came in the store a couple of days ago and we got to visit for a while. Take care of yourself, tell your family we said, HI, and we hope to see you again soon. "Obla-di-obla-da"! ---Finally, a reference to THE BEATLES. After all, Ringo and I have the same birthday! He'll be 62! Come see me, dude. Coo-coo-ca-choo!

MOLLY PLOVER ('71): My better half said you should have committed a crime before shaving! They would never have caught you. What a difference! Thanks for sharing. --Gee, if I ever shave it, again, I'll be sure to keep that in mind!

CATHI BOOTH ('71): Hey Dennis! WOW ! I thought I was looking at Captain Kangaroo, by the 3rd picture. Looks great but it sure takes about 10 years off you! By the way, Happy Birthday to you! I, too, will make that milestone. My family is doing well. My husband, JC, is getting out of teaching. When you have to work in a parish (county) that doesn't understand why they have special ed., where that is where cloning originally started,--Go figure!!?? He will become a full time distributor for an international company that is going to double in size within the next 4-5 years. I will send you a tape, later. As for me, I am still doing my healing work & working with people long distance as well. Went through the empty nest thing when our daughter went out on her own! Gosh what a journey! As you know, this past May made a year dad crossed over, and we are so pround of our mom!! She has let no dust gather under her feet. In September, my youngest brother, Lawrence will take yet on an other journey to Spain! Have a wonderful Birthday and may the Creator smile on you with many blessings! Lots of love and light. ---Thanks for your very kind words!

CAROL BELL ('78): Dennis - Very nice pics! LOL Happy Birthday sweetie.... hope everyone likes your crazy stunt. I sure did, I think you look great! ---Thanks! I gotta hand it to ya', you made my day!

VALERIE HARDISON ('71): Dennis, I can't believe you did this. Did you put a name tag on so your mom would know you? Hey, how about this rain! We have had 30 inches of rain as of 3 p.m. July 4th. We are getting another round shortly coming from Pearsall. This storm split in two and the other one is going towards our home east of town. We are on high ground here, but you should see Medina Lake. I took pictures with the digital and haven't gotten them developed yet. They had to move all the trailers and such in Thousand Trails up to the top of the park. There is no electricity or sewer for over 2 weeks or so down in the lower park. It is devastating. Take care and we are staying dry, thank goodness. ---Yeah, my brother Tom and his wife, (Susan Thompson) and kids, live in Mico, just a stones throw from Medina Lake Dam. We're staying in touch with them. Hang in there!

TED CROFT ('72): Call me crazy, but, hose after photos remind me of a revered band director named 'Herr Schreiber'. Hmmmm, the resemblance is remarkably uncanny. Happy 50! ---Hey, Ted! Remember those bottle rock fights on July 4th, every year on the corner of Remuda and Rawhide, where our houses were? Wonderful days of long ago!

DE DE BROWEN (' 75): Love that clean shaven look. You look 20 years younger. Are you sure you're 50 ? Keep the faith and thank you for being so faithful. May God bless you and keep you holy and wholly unto Him. ---De De, I'm always keeping the faith and the JJHS alumni flame burning brightly!

MITCH LUECK ('77 ): Hey Dennis! <chuckle> I like your description of yourself, but, to tell you the truth, it looks GREAT! You took off about 10 years! --- Mitch, your folks (my next door neighbors) are making me a special birthday dinner, this Saturday night! Eat your heart out!!

CAROLE WALLS ('77): Dennis-- Did you know my cousin, Debbie Van Pelt? She had been attending Holmes when Jay opened up. I remember how hard she cried when she was forced to go to Jay. I think she was a junior or a senior the year it opened. Any way, by the end of the school year, she was proud to be a Mustang. By the way, being a Mustang is a family tradition. My son graduated from there in 1995, and my daughter will graduate from there next year. I had two nephews and a niece graduate from there this year (one of my nephews is Steve Goff, the player that scored the most points in the basketball championship). Out of 25 nieces and nephews, so far ten have graduated from Jay. Currently, six more attend Jay. When we chant that old cheer, it really is true: WE are the Mustangs! The mighty, mighty Mustangs! By the way, the new look is interesting. You look good either way, but I think the beard made you look groovy! Have a happy birthday! --Yes, I remember Debbie! I had a big CRUSH on her back then. Now, if I was ON her, I'd crush her! LOL

BARBARA FRIEDMAN: Dear Dennis, Thanks so much for sharing your pictures! I think the no-beard is very becoming! I am sure that your mother will be thrilled, and may not even recognize you! Hope you have a very Happy Birthday! I still have some months to go. --- My mother freaked! My dad chuckled. My niece (20 years old and she has never seen me without a beard) SCREAMED!

RAY WHITWORTH ('73): You're looking better, my young friend!!!! I am getting married for the third time in Oct/Nov. The third time is the charm!! She just celebrated her 50th, last sunday. She is the woman I should have married 22 years ago. So, keep the hope alive and the dreams . Both are never farfetched. Have a good holiday, my friend. ---Congratulations on your upcoming wedding, Ray!

4th ANNUAL JOHN JAY H.O.P.E. GOLF TOURNAMENT SET
September 21, 2002 marks the date for the Fourth Annual John Jay H.O.P.E. Golf Tournament, Buffet Dinner & Silent Auction. Has it really been four years? Wow! If you've never joined us before, we hope you will participate in this year's major fundraiser. And if you've joined us in the past... please consider how you can partner with us again. There are many ways you can help: * Play Golf * Donate an Item for the Silent Auction * Attend the Dinner * Bid on an Auction Item * Volunteer your time * Become a Business Sponsor begining at $200.00 (Bronze Sponsor). Golf is $115.00 per player, and includes a boxed lunch. The Buffet Dinner is $30.00 per person. A block of 20 rooms is available for participants who would like to spend the night at Tapatio. The price is $95 plus tax. For Hotel Reservations, call 1-800-999-3299. Online forms will be available at our website on July 5, 2002. Or, if you'd like a form sent to you, just email your name, address, and phone number to: johnjayhope@fr.st -- a Golf Committee member will respond to your inquiry. This year's Golf Committee Chairman is: Mike Hatchett, Co-Chairmen: Lynda Blanton Atwood & Lydia Hollingsworth Mrzlak Next Golf Committee meeting: July 14, 2000 at 6:00p.m. Place: Martha's Restaurant, located at 281 & Thousand Oaks. BAND TABLE: Mustang Band Alumni who would like to be seated at the Band Table during the Buffet Dinner / Auction can send an email to Brenda Gloria at: BrendaG2003@aol.com. Daniesha Glass will be speaking at this year's Buffet Dinner, as well as Coach Romy Vela, who led the John Jay H.S. Basketball Team to V-I-C-T-O-R-Y, capturing the 4A State Champ Title.

2002 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS SELECTED
Thanks to your participation in last year's Third Annual Event, a total of five (5) $1,500.00 scholarships were awarded to John Jay seniors who graduated last month. They will be attending College this Fall. The recipients are: Vanessa Mares....Major: Film Production & Direction; Minor in Music. Goal: Impact lives by encouraging others to pursue their dreams. Tonya Hughes.... Major: Biology. Goal: Overcome the "odds" and become an OB/GYN Physician. Ernest De La Rosa.... Major: Nursing. Goal: To help babies get well so they can live full and productive lives. Hartesia Davis.... Major: Culinary Arts. Goal: Career as a Pastry Chef and to provide a solid future for herself and her child. Daniesha Glass.... Major: Elementary Education. Goal: To become an English teacher and to help make a difference in someone's life. KICKOFF / SOCIAL: The Golf Committee invites all Jay Alumni, students, teachers and friends to this year's Event Social. Food & drinks are on your own. Come and enjoy meeting with old friends from school! Date: July 27, 2002 Time: 7pm. Location: Hyatt Hill Country Resort, Hwy 151 (near SeaWorld) Dress: Casual

The John Jay H.O.P.E. Scholarship Fund is a non-profit 501(c) Organization. Your contributions are Tax-Deductible as allowed by law. The H.O.P.E. Scholarship was formed in 1998 by Alumni from the Class of '78, after their 20-Year Reunion. These Alumni desired to "Make a Difference" in the lives of John Jay H.S. students. Since then, Alumni from all class years have joined in the effort. We invite you to participate.... TOGETHER, we CAN make a difference!

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...

MIKE ROGERS ('72), KIM COLLIER ('73)