"CLASSMATE NEWS"
The Continuing Adventures of the 'Original'
1969 - 1970 - 1971 Mighty Mustangs and other Alumni of
JOHN JAY HIGH SCHOOL
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, U.S.A.

This is where I post the latest news on our fellow classmates. These news items are dated at the end, showing when they were posted here. The newest stories appear first. Classmate News is maintained in six-month blocks and then moved to the ARCHIVES.

Why do I do all this? Because it's FUN! You guys mean the world to me and perhaps some of the lyrics to one of my favorite BEATLES songs, says it best...

"In My Life"... John Lennon & Paul McCartney - on the Beatles' album "Rubber Soul."
(Voted the 'Best Song Ever Written," in a worldwide poll of songwriters, conducted in 2000.)

There are places i'll remember, all my life, though some have changed.
Some forever, not for better. some have gone and some remain.
All these places had their moments, with lovers and friends, i still can recall.
Some are dead and some are living. In my life, i've loved them all.
In my life, i've loved you more.
 
Kathy Keisor and I... a lifetime ago. A long lifetime ago.

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YOUR $UPPORT I$ ALWAY$, ALWAY$ NEEDED...
Hey! Do you enjoy this web site? Then, how about helping to keep it on line with a couple of bucks! The funds that we receive go to help keep this web site going. Now, more than ever before, I need your help to keep this site online. Please, send in a contribution, today. To those of you that support these efforts, year after year, I say, "Thank you, so very much!" I am so grateful to each and every one of you. Without you, all this would have ended years ago. I appreciate your generous spirit of giving, not only from your wallet, but, from your HEART. $end your donation$ to: Dennis DuPriest, 7439 Lancewood Lane, San Antonio, TX 78227-1001

JUNE 2003
ANONYMOUS ('71) wrote a check for the web site and handed it to me in person. She insisted that she remain anonymous. I told her thanks, gave her a hug, and promised I wouldn't mention her name. So, that's that.

MAY 2003
RANDY PEARSON ('71) sent in a donation and I greatly appreciate it. Randy loves this web site and tells me "Dennis, Continue to do it your way. It works!" Thanks for the vote of confidence!

GLENN BURCHARD ('69) mailed in a check to keep this site going strong. I'm getting 500+ hits a month and I need every penny to keep this thing going. Thanks for your generosity, Glenn. You've supported this effort since the beginning. I wish more people offered as much support as you do. You're the best!

APRIL 2003
LYDIA "TOY" KELLY ('71) mailed in a check, today, to keep this web site going and I really appreciate it. She says in "two winters" she's headed back to San Antonio and she an barely wait! Thank you, Toy, for coming through and helping when we need it the most!

CYNTHIA "CINDY" BACON ('70) sent in a generous donation which has helped out a lot! This month, my web site has been viewed so many times that I had to buy more download space four times! Thanks to Cindy, I have the funds to keep the site open through the end of the month! Thanks, Cindy! (By the way, folks, Cindy is moving back to Texas in a few weeks and will be living in New Braunfels, near her dad.)

MARCH 2003
CARL JENSEN ('70) has sent in a substantial donation every year to keep us going. Once, again, the Colonel comes through when the site needs it the most.  Thanks for your support, buddy!

FEBRUARY 2003
NONE

JANUARY 2003
JOHN & ELVA (GARCIA) POWERS ('70/'70) made a great donation to keep us going.
DEBBIE HILBRICH ('74) is the first to donate in 2003! Thanks, Deb, you're the greatest!

DECEMBER 2002
STEVE MAYS ('70) sent in his BIG end-of-the-year donation, as he has for the past 5 years!

CLASSMATE NEWS: RECENT ARCHIVES
If you're looking for the CLASSMATE NEWS for the past 6 months, it has been moved to a special archives file. Just click this link to read those files:  JULY 2002-DECEMBER 2002.

For CLASSMATE NEWS all the way back to 1997, return to the Index Page and scroll down to the CLASSMATE NEWS: ARCHIVES links and select the time period you want to review: INDEX PAGE

OUR PRAYERS FOR LOVED ONES LOST... 

COMMENTS ON HARRY HETRICK---
"Dear Dennis, I wanted to thank you for keeping us all informed on the events in the lives of our former classmates. It is very sad to have to report when one of us has passed on but at the same time it is very gratifying to hear the positive aspects of our classmate's lives. I am so very sorry to hear about Jim Davis' wife and, now, about Harry. It is a bitter fact that at this point in our lives we hear more about the loss of our parents and friends. It makes it all the more precious to hear about the marriages, births and "good news" that you share with the rest of us. I hope that you are well and happy.  Take care, Dennis! Love, Michelle" Michelle Smith ('70)

"Dennis, I knew Beaner through his sister, Anne and their mom Mrs. Hetrick.  I remember him clowning around when I was at Anne's house.  The whole family is wonderful - some of the kindest people you will ever meet.  I know they are taking this very hard. My thoughts and prayers are with them at this time." Pamela Minneman ('73) 

"Dennis, This really is sad news.  Today is my 51st birthday and this is not what I want to hear on my birthday.  Harry is the second friend to die on my birthday.  A few years ago a guy named Joey Crews who was a close friend at Westwood Terrace was killed by a drunk driver on my birthday.  Now, losing Harry makes this an especially sad day.  One thing is certain, I will not forget him.  Each year I will remember and thank God for bringing people like Harry and Joey into my life. Thanks for being the keeper of the flame -- even during the hard times." Doug Crawford ('70

"Dennis, thanks for your e-mails.  I can't believe that Harry has died-- You are right, he was a great guy. Hope you are well." Terry Williams ('70)

"Dennis, I just got home from work and checked my email and words can not explain how I feel.  As I sit here and think about what to say, I hear Harry telling me to 'hurry up' but, make it 'profound/.  How more can 'profound' be than 'he'll be missed.'  When we were living across the street from each other on Daytona, we would hang together and once, we even got into a fight over a girl I don't even remember. (You can bet he did, he remembered peoples names and little facts like no one else I can think of.)  He even dated Jeanne Dickson for about a weekend or two and then I eventually married her. His dad (who passed in I think 1996), bless his soul,  tried to teach Harry how to play Chess (1964) but Harry just wasn't into it.  Harry would get upset with me for sitting and playing Chess with his Dad for hours, when we could have been out riding the bikes.  So many memories, but all good and I, like others that knew Harry, will rejoice and be blessed that he was a part of our lives.  He'll truly be missed and I feel I can safely say he's being taught how to play to play chess by the best teacher/player I knew." Nathan Willis ('70)   

"That's a shock.  Hard to imagine..." Vance Verbeck ('69)

JIM DAVIS ('70) Hawthorne, Florida, has suffered the loss of his wife, Laura (Tulair) Davis, who died on Monday, April 14, 2003. I have no other details, at this time. We send our condolences, prayers and best wishes to Jim and his family in this time of sorrow. (4/17/03)

TERRY WILLIAMS ('74) our friend, classmate, and brother of BOB WILLIAMS ('69) and MICHELLE WILLIAMS ('76), passed away, Monday, January 20, 2003. Terry was the quarterback of the Mighty Mustangs football team, and also played basketball and baseball for John Jay. He died of liver cancer. The memorial service for Terry will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2003 at 3:00 pm at New Zion Christian Church, 1315 South Diary Ashford, Houston, Texas 77077. Phone number is 281-589-9159. If, you so desire, friends may send funds in Terry's memory to any charity, as people see fit. He is survived by his children and his grandchildren. Our prayers and best wishes for comfort, go out to Bob, Michelle, and the entire Williams family. Bob can be reached at his work phone: 832-204-5449. The family appreciates the outpouring of love and concern by friends and former classmates. Our love and prayers to the Williams family.

Mrs. Felicita (Bernardinis) Padron, the mother of our classmate DANNY PADRON ('69) and his brothers Pete and Larry passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2003.  She was born on January 4, 1927 in Udine, Italy, and passed away, following complications from surgery, at the age of 76, here, in San Antonio. She was preceded in death by her husband, Peter P. Padron, Jr., whom she married on January 12, 1948 and lived a rich, full life as an Air Force wife. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother, and she always put "family first." She is survived by her oldest son, Pete and his wife, LINDA (DUPRIEST) PADRON ('71) and their daughters, April and Katie; second son, Danny and his wife, Cynthia and their son, Andy; and youngest son, Larry and wife, CINDY (POWERS) PADRON ('71) and their sons, Matthew, Justin and Kyle.  All of the grandchildren will be serving as pallbearers. Visitation will be from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday January 22, 2003 at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 Northeast Loop 1604 @ Gold Canyon Drive, phone: 210-495-8221. Mass will be held on Thursday, January 23rd at 9:15 a.m. at St. Matthew's Catholic Church, 10703 Wurzbach Road. Interment will follow at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery. The family invites you to leave a message at www.porterloring.com by selecting Visitation and Services. Select "Sign Guestbook" at the bottom of the individual memorial. It was my pleasure to know Mrs. Padron on a family level, as she was my sister's mother-in-law. The Padron's and DuPriest's often got together for family occasions. She could always make me laugh. She had a zest for life and lived it to it fullest. Mrs. Padron touched so many lives and she will be missed for a long, long time to come.

Mr. Jim Sundberg, the father of classmates KENT (Kenny) SUNDBERG ('70), JAMIE SUNDBERG ('71) and JILL SUNDBERG ('81), died on Tuesday, January 14, 2003. He was battling cancer and succumbed to pneumonia after six months of treatment for the cancer. Kenny and his mom, Luette, live in Nebraska and be reached through Kenny's e-mail link, above. I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Sundberg back in the early 1980's when he was with the personnel department at the corporate headquarters of Handy Dan Home Improvement Centers, where I was the Public Relations Director. He and I worked together developing training films and safety manuals for the company. Our prayers and best wishes to the Sundberg family in their time of sorrow. SPECIAL NOTE: This evening (1/21/03) I received the following e-mail from Kenny... "Dear Dennis, There is no way to accurately tell you how much your work with our classes and  friends, your selfless loyalty, and your just plain outrageous approach to keep us all in touch, means to, not only me, but the entire "herd".  I personally do thank you so much for all the wonderful people I have been able to locate and speak with due to your efforts. As I am sure you know, this past week has been one of those "defining" times for myself and my family.  We were blessed in that we were all at my Father's side when he was called to go.  The support system in place for my mother is outstanding!  While I do use her e-mail system, I am not at my mother's abode and reside just a quick walk or even shorter drive to her house, should she have need of me for one thing or the other.  I actually came home after I retired from the Marine Corps because my parents asked me to, Dennis, again, I shall always be in your debt for all you have done in posting my father's last weeks with us.  Through you, my mother, siblings and myself have spoken with so many people and have received so many beautiful cards, letters, and gifts.  You need only to ask, and I will do whatever need be done. I shall close for now , as I know that I have effectively cut my mother off from her friends and correspondence. All of my best wishes and sincere hope for your happiness. SEMPER FI. " ---As a public information officer for a school district and as a free lance writer for KTSA and KTFM Radio, I make my living with words, Kenny. The words that you have just written to me, leave me speechless. I am humbled. Thank you so very much. I am proud to have played a small part in easing your family's sadness. Love IS all around.

25-YEAR REUNION FOR "CLASS OF 1978"
Click on this link for info on the 25-Year Reunion for the "Class of 1978" to be held in October 11-12, 2003: REUNION
if, any other John Jay High School classes are planing reunions in 2003, please, contact me and  I will post your information!

NOW, I HAVE A GUEST BOOK FOR YA' TO SIGN!
Thanks to TIM STEVENS ('78), I found a way to attach a GUEST BOOK for visitors to this web site to sign. Would ya take a moment to click the link and drop me a line? I'd appreciate it. Please forgive the many "pop up" ads that sneak in. It's the only way to get the free service. So, click here... GUEST BOOK

OUR FORMER PRINCIPAL GETS A GROOVY HAT! During the Shrine's 2002 annual international convention, held in Vancouver, British Columbia, June 23-27, 2002, our former principal (and the very first principal John Jay High School ever had, by the way) TERRY McGUIRE of San Antonio, Texas, was re-elected to serve a fourth term as a member of the boards of directors for the Shrine of North America and Shriners Hospitals for Children. He is serving as Imperial Second Ceremonial Master, part of the 13-member body that helps to regulate the Shrine. He has served as a member of the Board of Governors of the Shriners Hospital in Houston, and also served as Treasurer and Chairman of the Finance Committee. For 24 years, he has served as a representative to the Imperial Council and served as Chairman of the Dispensations & Charters Committee, and Vice-Chairman of the Imperial Marshal Aides Committee.  He is director of marketing and facility planner for one of the oldest and largest architectural firms in San Antonio, specializing in education and health care facilities. Previously he spent 28 years in public school administration where he was assistant superintendent for the 8th largest school district in Texas. McGuire served as a board member of the Northwest YMCA, and was a member of the San Antonio Executive Association, and the Harp and Shamrock Society. He is a life member of the San Antonio Livestock Association. He is a Past Potentate of Alzafar Shriners and served as President of the Mounted Horse Patrol. He was raised a Master Mason in 1959, and is a member of Triune Lodge #15. He served as District Deputy Grand Master in 2000 and is a member of the Scottish Rite and York Rite bodies. Terry and his wife, Charlene, reside in San Antonio, Texas. They have two children and five grandchildren. (2/1/03)

CLASSMATE WITNESSES SPACE SHUTTLE "COLUMBIA" DESTRUCTION!
RAY WHITWORTH ('73) in Dallas, Texas sent me an e-mail this morning, February 1, 2003, just hours after the space shuttle "Columbia" was destroyed over the skies of Dallas. Here is his e-mail to me... "A few minutes before 8:00 a.m., I let the dogs out and I was checking the swimming pool to see, if, the cleaning machine was working. A few minutes later, I heard 2 sonic booms. I haven't heard those since I was 7 years old, when Air Force fighter jets were test flown over San Antonio. (They were later outlawed a few years later.) I looked up and saw a puffy, whitish orange condensation trail,  against the still rising sun. My first thought was that it was a meteorite. I remember seeing two in my life in 1967 and, again, in 1974. I saw particles flying off and illuminate brightly. Only, a few minutes later, I turned on the TV and saw what it was .. what I had just seen. 'Stunned" is too simple a word. I looked out again and saw the condensation trail slowly diffusing and spread, and I recalled the "Challenger" explosion that I saw live on TV. Then, I muttered, "Why again, God?" The tragedy stuck close to home . I headed to my radio station in Malakoff. Numerous emergency vehicles of all types from the local police to volunteer fire fighters were on Hwy. 175, Hwy. 198 and Hwy. 31. Some small debris fell around the Cedar Creek Lake area. One in particular the authorities feel was a part of the space shuttle is a whitish blackened metal sheet with some wiring, in a field one mile from my station. I came home a little while ago, but, I can't shake one historical thought. January 1967. Apollo 1 caught fire on the launch pad and killed three astronauts. Roger Chaffee, Gus Grissom and Edward White. White was a native of San Antonio and the first American to walk in space. January 1987- the space shuttle "Challenger" blew as it ascended with the first teacher Christi McAuliffe. February 1, 2003 "Columbia" the oldest and the second ever shuttle blew up over my home. One day shy of being in January. New stars are born and 7 have reached heaven." ---Ray, thank you for sharing this with us. If, anyone else wants to express their thoughts on this tragedy, e-mail me and I will post it here. (2/1/03)

MR. GEORGE LYNN BRITTON, THE LAST REMAINING ORIGINAL JOHN JAY TEACHER STEPS DOWN, AFTER 35 YEARS. *ON MAY 3, 2003, HE WAS ELECTED TO A FULL TERM ON THE NISD SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND MADE VICE PRESIDENT!!

MR. GEORGE LYNN BRITTON, a math teacher, head of the math department and the very last remaining teacher that started with John Jay High School when it opened in September 1967, has stepped down from Jay to accept the appointment of the Northside Independent School District to serve as a board member to fill an unexpired term. He served John Jay students in those hallowed halls for 36 years. Here is a news article from the San Antonio Express-News reporter, Sharon Hughes, explaining everything... "Were it not for an opening on the Northside school board, Lynn Britton says he'd probably still be teaching math at Jay High School. Britton, 57, the newest Northside trustee, resigned from his position as math coordinator in December so that he could apply for the three-month interim trustee position after Trustee Tom Hatchett resigned for health reasons. "There's some hard decisions that the board has to make immediately," Britton said. "You need to have somebody in there who understands the impact on kids." The district, like many across the state, is facing a tough budget year. Board members said they chose Britton because he was informed about crucial school issues and familiar with his community. He had been president of the Northside Educational Improvement Council, an advisory group made up of community residents and staff. "We had some good candidates," board President M'Lissa Chumbley said. Britton's appointment to the District 1 seat, which includes the Jay attendance area, will last until May when the district has its regular elections. He intends to run for the position. Britton said he's lived in the community since the 1950s, when his parents bought a house in Valley Hi. He graduated from Marshall High School and started teaching at Jay when it opened in 1967. Both his children graduated from Jay. Hatchett expressed confidence in Britton as he said good-bye to the board at the Tuesday night meeting. "The board did an outstanding job in the appointment of my replacement," Hatchett said. "I feel that he will do an outstanding job also, because I will be looking right over his shoulder."--- The best of luck to Mr. Britton, as he continues his exemplary service to the children of NISD. (2/2/03)

CURRENT CLASSMATE NEWS

JUNE 2003
DENNIS DUPRIEST ('70) San Antonio, Texas. Hey, that's me! Back on June 3rd our family had a mini reunion getting to see my cousin Verna from South Carolina. We hadn't seen her in about 40 years. My brother TOM DUPRIEST ('73), sister LINDA DUPRIEST ('71) and other cousins, aunts, uncles and parents had a blast! Here's a photo! (6/18/03)

My brother Tom DuPriest; my sister Linda (DuPriest) Padron (recovering well from breast cancer)
my cousin Donna (DuPriest) Kraft, cousin Verna (DuPriest) Stucker and
me in the center at a reunion on June 3rd.

KATHY KEISOR ('72) Anchorage, Alaska dropped me a note to tell she that she's going to be a GRANDMOTHER. Her daughter Amy is expecting her first child. Congratulations, Kath- you'll make a wonderful grandma!! Kathy and her husband, Jay are purchasing a new magnificent homesite in Maui, Hawaii and turning it into a beautiful Bread & Breakfast Hotel that Amy and her husband will run for them. Hey, classmates! If you're ever in that area and need a place to stay, tell them Kathy (or Dennis) sent ya'! Kathy was in Italy the same time we and the Harings were! (6/18/03)

This new six bedroom six bath home is located in the brand new Ocean View
community above Launiopoko Park, just south of Lahaina, Hawaii.
Kathy and her husband, Jay will convert it to a Bed & Breakfast Hotel.

DON HARING ('70) Anchorage, Alaska and his sister, DEBBIE HARING ('71) San Antonio, Texas surprised the daylights outta' me, today! I'm on vacation and pretty much staying at home. In fact, I was taking a nap when there was a knock at my door. It was Don and Debbie. Don was in town for is annual visit to his folks and to see his daughter. Debbie took the day off to goof off with her brother and to come see me. I first met them in Brindisi/San Vito di Normandi, Italy back in 1965 and we've been friends ever since. Don is like a brother to me and Deb, well, I'd say she's like a sister to me except for the naughty thoughts I've had about her over the years would send me straight to HELL! Yeee Haaa! Don looks great and Deb looks DELICIOUS, I mean, fantastic! I saw Don last year when he stopped by, but I haven't seen Debbie for about seven years or so. We sat in my front yard because my house was too much of a mess to let them come in. (Imagine Redd Foxx's "Sanford & Son's" house except ten times worse!) We talked about the good old days when we all lived in Italy and, of course, talked about when they lived on Westshire, here, in the old neighborhood. Don still works for the Army Corps of Engineers and his current project is the construction of a missile defense installation in Alaska. He heads back to the frozen north on Friday. Debbie works at Stevens Lighting, here in San Antonio. I love them both and it's great seeing them, again. (6/18/03)

GLENN WHITAKER ('72) Hickam AFB, Hawaii just got transfered to Langley AFB in Virginia. He has a new e-mail address. (Just click his name, above, to get it.) Glenn is a Colonel in the Air Force and a good buddy!! (6/18/03)

GEORGE HUNTER ('70) based in Germany, but currently in secret locations in the Middle East, sent in an e-mail... "Dear Dennis, Sorry my man, the mug's not from me.... besides it must be a secret admirer who would have left "kisses" all over it.. Just got back in from a mission in Iraq, I am now hanging my hat in Doha, Qatar.... with duty into Kuwait, and into Iraq.. My travels are by all modes of transportation and believe me there are some sorry ones over here in the sandy middle east. Someday I will settle down and come home for good.... in the meantime, you will know if I send you a cup from overseas.. it will most likely be marked by a round which had gone through it! Bye buddy, keep up your great work and stay in touch!! P.S. BTW... here is a bit of trivia... where does Saudi-Arabia get its sand for building materials such as concrete?  The U.S. for the most part. The sand in this country is too powdery to sustain well as concrete!" ---Thanks for checking in, George. You be safe and get back to the States real soon! (6/18/03)

PAMELA HARDGRAVE ('77) Waldorf, Maryland has written to me about reunion photos... "Dennis: I've lost the photos to the reunion last summer for the class of 1977.  Is there any way I can still get them again through your website or email?  I've enjoyed your website, but there doesn't seem to be much news about classmates from my class.  Unfortunately, I don't know most of people mentioned in your website, but it's still fun to go through it and look at the pictures -- especially the older pics!  Let me know about the reunion. ---Pam thanks for writing. Sorry, I don't have much news from your "Class of 1977". As you know, my site is primarily for 1969-1970-1971. I am happy to carry news of other classes when it's sent in to me. I don't have any photos of your reunion of last year. However, if someone has a site that has them posted, I would be happy to provide a link to that site. I don't have room to post them on my site. If anyone in the "Class of 1977" has the reunion photos posted, let me know and I'll set up a link. All the best. (6/14/03)

MIKE KELLY ('75) Cedar Park, Texas, found this web site and writes... "Dear Dennis, I was surprised at how extensive your site is. You've definitely put a lot of time and heart into it. Now, that I've discovered it, I'll be making regular visits. Lots of familiar faces and names that I recognize. Like I said, the first reunion I was able to get to was the one in'99. I missed my ten year because I was stationed in Mississippi and couldn't get away but, I'll be trying to make whatever comes up in the future. Thanks for a great site with a lot of information!" ---Good to hear from you, Mike, and welcome back to the Mighty Mustangs (6/13/03)

ELIZABETH "BETSY" SHUPP ('72) Duncanville, Texas has found my web site! It's been a long time and it's great to hear from her.... "Dear Dennis, my husband, GREGG JOHNSON ('72) and I have been married for 28 years and we have 3 children, and 2 grandchildren. I got to spend some time this weekend with JAMIE SUNDBERG ('71) and her husband Glenn Black, and Jamie's mom, Mrs. Lou Sundberg. I was saddened to hear that Jamie's dad, Mr. Jim Sundberg had passed away recently. I will always remember him lovingly, as he was a great encouragement and help to me those years I was part of his family. Jamie looks exactly the same, blonde, green-eyed, and pretty, and as bubbly as ever. It was good to see them all, especially Mrs. Sundberg. She was like a mother to me I and will always have a special place in my heart. Would you add our e-mail addresses to your 1972 list? We would appreciate any info on class reunions,or who to get in touch with about that. Would love to hear from any old Jay alumni! Alway, Betsy." --- Hey, Betsy it's great to hear from you after all this time. Yes, I have added you to the e-mail list and as for reunions, well, I haven't heard of any for a while. When I do, it will be posted, here, under "Classmate News" so, check this web site at least once a week. Do you have an e-mail address for your sister, Melody? Welcome back to the MIGHTY MUSTANGS! (6/7/03)

PHILLIP TURNER ('72) Orlando, Florida has sent in an e-mail after being tracked down by ALICE BACHMAN ('72) "Dennis, First of all, let me congratulate and thank you for the expense and time contributed to the Website for JJHS alumni. Thanks, again, for your great site.  I lost my yearbooks in the first move away from San Antonio 30 years ago.  I am anxious to see photos to connect them to names with people I recently have renewed contact with after all these years. In fact, I remember your name, but I still cannot place the face.  I pretty much ran in the band circles with “RIP” DOUVRY, VANCE VERBECK, etc. from your class. I even remember URBAN URBANO ('70) and the band Orange Orange but, I can’t recall your face.  Any clues for you?  For any of our former classmates and old friends that want to call me, my home phone is: (407)291-4865 and my cell number: (407) 474-7351. Thanks and Best Regards.. P.S. You look much younger without the facial hair. ---Phillip it's great to hear from you. Let's see, clues about me? Well, I ran around with the drama crowd and was in every play performed for the first three years at John Jay, except for one.  Urban Urbano has two bands while at Jay... "Colonel Tyke's Traveling Medicine Show & Musical Band" followed by "Blind Light." I don't think Urban drummed for Orange Orange. I'll ask him the next time we talk or ask JOHN CAMPBELL ('69), the next time I see him. It's good to have you back with us! (6/6/03)

BARBARA FREIDMAN ('72) San Antonio, Texas has moved back to the Alamo City and shares her new address and phone numbers with those who want to stay in touch- 12701 West Avenue #2015, San Antonio, TX 78216. Home phone is: 210-496-0382 and cell phone: 210-725-1177. Welcome back! (6/6/03)

MAY 2003
LINDA DUPRIEST ('71) San Antonio, Texas, is doing great after her surgery and chemotherapy for breast cancer. My sister's hair is slowly growing back- more white than gray, I might add. She's in great spirits and has gotten involved with various breast cancer projects. (5/31/03)

RANDY PEARSON ('71) Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, mailed in a donation for the web site and a quick note... "Dennis, here's a check for the web site. I work in the airline industry and you know how that's going. We expect some layoffs, soon, but, I'm hanging in there. Keep up the great work and continue to do it YOUR way. It works!" ---Randy, it's great to hear from you and thank you so much for the donation check. I know what you're talking about in the airline industry. I admire your determination. God willing, the layoffs will pass you by, my friend. Take care! (5/15/03)

DEBBIE HILBRICH ('74) Houston, Texas sent me her new e-mail address and tells me she's started a new business... "Dear Dennis, I just started my own recruiting firm. You can check out my web site at:  www.ennettsmith.com. And here's another update: I am the proud mother of a Marine!  My son, Sgt Jonathan Smith has been in Iraq since Feburary 5th. I hope that all is going well with you.  As always....thanks for keeping us in the know.  You do great work!" --- Deb, I just checked out your web site and YOU do great work too! (5/15/03)  

NATHAN WILLIS ('70) San Antonio, Texas, sent in some FANTASTIC news! He's earned his college degree!! Here's his e-mail to me... "Dear Dennis, Just checked my account at Southwest Texas State University and I received two (2) A's for my internship. I am now offcially awaiting my diploma to be mailed to me: "Bachelor of Arts and Applied Sciences with an emphasis in Criminal Justice." I had a 3.29 GPA. It's been a long 8 years!!" --- Way to go, Nathan! We're all proud of you!! Now, get your Masters! (5/12/03)

RICHARD & DEBBIE (DANIELS) DOBSON ('70) Mobile, Alabama, sent me an e-mail for the very first time. At least, I think it's for the very first time. My memory isn't what it used to be, as I approach age 51... "Dennis: Like you, I was sorry to hear about Harry Hetrick. We hung around a lot during our junior and senior years. I haven't been back to Texas, but, one time since 1973. WANDA DARLEY ('70) e-mailed me to tell me about Harry. I did get to see him back in 1986, though. I was sitting at home one afternoon, on my off day, and I got a call. It was Beaner. He was calling from the causeway, here in Mobile! We talked a few minutes,and when he said he had to go, he mentioned that he and his family were on their way to Disney World in Florida. I told him "Guess What? I'm leaving in the morning for Disney World, myself!!" Well, I'll tell ya, I think that was the best vacation I've ever had. We met down in Florida and had a great time. Harry, his wife and three girls, me, my wife, DEBBIE DANIELS ('70), and my three boys, all had a great time. I know I haven't been in contact with many people from John Jay, over the years, but,Wanda as kept me informed. I really miss your newsletters too. I really will miss Harry, as will, everyone who knew him." ---Rick, it's great to hear from you and Debbie. Please, be sure to give her my love. Thanks for the kind thoughts about Harry and for the Disney World story. That is so cool. As for the newsletters that I used to write. Well, it just got too expensive for me to keep doing them. It's pretty much the same story with this web site. I pay 75+% of the cost to keeps this going and 100% of the effort. If folks would just send in $5 or whatever they can to help keeps things going, well, it would be fine. The way it's going, this site may end up disappearing just like the alumni newsletters. EVERYONE LOVES AND WANTS IT, VERY FEW HELP SUPPORT IT. With that said, thanks for your concern about the newsletter. I can tell ya' this... There will NOT be anymore newsletters. I am scheduling the next big reunion for July 2005 and ALL communications will be done with E-MAILS and with this web site. So, if anyone knows of people that need to be added to my mailing list, they need to get me that information ASAP. Again, thanks for writing and all the best to you an yours. Hope to see ya' in 2005. (5/8/03)

Richard Henderson ('70) crowned "Queeng" and having a blast at Fiesta.

RICHARD HENDERSON ('70) San Antonio, Texas, sent e-mail today, "Hey Dennis, I like the guestbook addition to you  web site. I signed it. I hope you dont mind my openess there. My sister, LAURA HENDERSON ('71) new e-mail address is: laurabarrios@juno.com, if, she hasnt said "Hello," lately. I was glad to see MATT DELANEY ('70) at Christmas. I knew he was in town at Easter but I was kept busy with family. I bought the old house (1898-1900) that I have been living in for 6 years. The property also includes a smaller house built in 1930. I call that one my "Disaster Area." It really needs lots of work. I am looking for classmates who might be interested in restoration work. The standing reply to people (gay) I meet, as to why I am single is that I am looking for a red-headed Architect that can swing a hammer and a paint brush. I will try to send something to the cause, when the money begins to trickle down again. Stay well Stay Happy! P.S. attached is a crazy picture of me at a Fiesta Party two years ago, when I was crowned "Queeng" (king-queen combo) I just gave up my crown this Fiesta. When those pictures come in I will send you one, I think! It was too much for color TV! (5/7/03)

MATT DELANEY ('70) Santa Barbara, California, was in town this past week visiting with his folks and seeing friends and classmates. He visited with  CHARLIE SIMS ('70) and his wife, STARR LENHARDT ('70) and had a great time with them. He called me and offered to buy me dinner this past Friday (May 2).  So, I met him at Jim's Coffee Shop at Marbach and Loop 410. We had been there for about 45 minutes, when an older-looking man and woman came walking down the aisle. The guy looked familiar, but, I wasn't sure so, I didn't say anything. They sat about two tables over. I noticed that the man kept looking over at me. When they finished their meal and got ready to leave, they came over to Matt and I. The man asked, "Are you Dennis DuPriest?" Then, I recognized the guy! It was a friend that was stationed in Brindisi, Italy with us in 1965-67, MIKE MOCK. (His last name is now, Keener) I hadn't seen him in like 15 years! Back in Italy, he was four years older than me and he was like the "Fonzie" of the crowd on base. (He was once my sister, LINDA's ) boyfriend. Leather jacket, slicked back hair, white T-shirt with a pack of cigarettes rolled up in the sleeve, the whole nine yards and everything! A real cool dude.) Anyway, Mike introduced his wife, Donna, who was also a John Jay alumnus! She didn't graduate, but, she would have been in the Class of 1978. Well, Matt starts talking to Donna, and it turns out, they have mutual friends, including RENITA FOSTER's ('71) family!! Mike and I had a great time shooting the breeze about our days in Italy. He went back for a visit about two years ago and plans to go back in another two years. I'm making plans to go with them. So, anyway, we all says our "Good byes" and they leave. Matt and I sit for another 10 minutes, or so, and when we finish talking, we head for the door. I'm standing behind Matt at the cash register, when some man walks up behind me, bumps me, (more like shoves me in the back) and I turn around. It's our classmate,  MIKE CUNNINGHAM ('70) !! I couldn't believe it!! Mike looks great and the three of us sit down in the lobby of Jim's and start talking. Mike and his family live, here, in San Antonio and I asked Mike how his wife, SUSAN SPANG ('71) is doing. He says, "Ask her yourself, she's here!" He goes and gets Susan and she looks fantastic! We all chit chat for a bit, but, their food is getting cold and they gotta' get back to their table. Mike promises to be at THE GUYS meeting at the end of this month (Friday, May 30, at Pizza Hut, Marbach & Loop 410 at 7:30 p.m. in the Mustang Room). WOW! What an amazing evening. The last time I went to Jim's, my aunt and uncle, that I hadn't seen in three years, come walking in when I was having dinner with Renita Foster. It's like Jim's Coffee Shop is the TREVI FOUNTAIN of San Antonio. They say if you wait at the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy, long enough, someone you know will show up! What a hoot. So, anyway, that's what happened on Matt Delaney's visit, this time! (5/4/03)

SANDY HICKEY ('72) in Houston, Texas, has been busy in the music world as she described in her e-mail to me... "Howdy, All! Yes, we are still "Hangin' On The Wash" every Wednesday night, playing da bluz and having a rockin' good time. Our lineup consists of Emerson "Funky E" Jackson, aka "EJ" on bass, Andy Rogers on drums, and our most recent Wednesday addition, Adma Burchfield on guitar. Adam is the guitarist for Dave Nevling's Blues Kats, and also heads his own side project, The Octanes. Although we have been without a permanent Soul Provider since Skid Rowe left, we have always been blessed to have many of Houston's finest guitarists' grace our stage. We have many, many local musicians who make appearances from time to time, but particularly since the sudden, tragic death of our dear friend and legendary blues/jazz man Kinney Abair, we have had the distinct pleasure of hosting none other another one of Houston's living legends, Mr. Oscar Obear. If you have never heard anyone cook a mess a Poke Salad on stage, you are missin' out!!!  Oscar is one of those true bluesmen that possesses guitar and vocal styling that only years of performing can bring.  He is the history of our rich blues heritage of the Gulf Coast area. Stop in to see what you are missing. On another note, we will be performing this Saturday at the first annual, RED, ROCKIN' BLUES FEST in La Grange, TX (home of the Best Lil' Whorehouse in Texas, until Marvin Zindler put it out of biz).  The line up that day includes, yours truly and the Soul Providers, featuring the young and extremely talented Brad McCool on guitar.  Brad headed his own group for many years, performing at some of Houston's finest blues venues and taking it on the road.  He has been laying low lately, and we were so fortunate to have him join us for this exciting show.  You will see and hear more of Brad with the Soul Providers.  Other performers that day include The Deceivers, Yasheed, Christy Claxton, Rue Bourbon (my buds and favorite R&B/Blues/Zydeco revue), Tony Vega Band AND.......Miss Lavelle White!!!  I am thrilled to be on the same bill as Lavelle, I can hardly wait.  Take I0-West towards Columbus and take Hwy 71 towards Austin, then Hwy 77.  The Fayette County Fairgrounds are about 1/4 mile up the road.  If you want to attend, Mr. and Mrs "V" of KPFT's Blues on the Move radio show, have some freebie tickets available.  Call me if you are interested. On yet another note, as many of you know, I have been traveling this year to hang with my honey and his band, Lil' Brian and the Zydeco Travelers.  I was in Las Vegas in mid April, when they had a two-nighter at the Fremont Street Experience, and just returned from Jazzfest this past weekend.  The Travelers were cookin' in the Big Easy and made the cover of the Times Picayune Metro section on Sunday.  We also got to see LL COOL J up close and personal as he was headed to the stage next to us.  Next week I will be headed to Florida and to Key West as the Travelers do a 5-night stand at Jimmy Buffett's famed Margaritaville (not to mention that I will be hangin' with my sis, Cynthia).  Then June 6th I will be headed to Riverbend Fest in Chattanooga, TN.  Many of you know that is where the Hickey's come from.  Phew....I am wearing myself out just writing about it. Love to all and don't forget to check out www.intrepidartists.com and click on Lil' Brian for John and JC's (the guitaritst) travel itinerary.  We thank you all for the support and love of live music.  Until next time....Keep Live Music Live, Sandy Hickey and the Soul Providers." --Uhh, rock-n-roll, Sandy!! (5/4/03)

APRIL 2003

WILLIE LOWE ('71) Dallas, Texas, made it to THE GUYS meeting for the first time in about two years! Willy is one of the original TOP 10 members of THE GUYS. He was in town to visit his folks in Lytle. It was fantastic to see him. He never changes. His contracting business is doing great and he's having a blast. You can never have a better friend than Willy. He's been there for me when things were at their worst and I didn't know where to turn. He always has a kind word of encouragement. I'm glad he's my buddy! (4/30/03)

RANDY OLSON ('71) O'Fallon, Illinois, has suffered a stroke, last week, but he's hanging in there. He and I spoke, tonight, (Tuesday, April 29th). Randy is pretty much restricted to bed rest, as he is suffering from heart and kidney problems, and a slowly healing broken ankle. He needs organ transplants, but, he's too weak for them. To talk to him on the phone, you can't tell that anything is wrong, he's in high spirits. And through it all he asks how other people are doing and doesn't dwell on his own problems. Randy is amazing. He stays in touch with a few classmates and wants to hear from others. Randy told me he'd really like to come back to San Antonio and see people. I told him the next reunion is July 2005. With prayers and good fortune, maybe he'll make it. He'd love to hear from classmates, so, you can write him at 805 Monterey Street, O'Fallon, IL 62269 or call him on his cell phone (618) 406-5230. He's not on the internet, for the time being, so, he can't be reached by e-mail. Drop a line or give him a call. Hang in there, buddy. (4/29/02)

TOM REILLY ('72) San Antonio, Texas, recently found this web site and gives me some background on himself to refresh my (and your) memory... "My brief John Jay H.S. history begins with my freshman year (1968-69) and then, in 1969, our family got shipped to Izmar, Turkey, then, back to the states at Whiteman, Missouri in 1970-71. Then, it was back here to San Antonio and back to John Jay for my senior year 1971-72. I remember a lot of friends from those days- the Boyd family, the Booths, the Jileks, and the Caffeys. Others include Ronnie Blake, Dave Willis, Steve Sinor, Jim Dawson, and more. I haven't seen many in these past years. After Jay, I went to Houston, Dallas, and other parts and eventually came back here to settle. I've been in the landscaping business in 1982 and doing well. I'd love to hear from old friends. Be sure to drop me a line." ---Tom, it's good to hear from you and welcome back to the Mustang Corral. (4/25/03)

MIKE GABEL ('70) San Antonio, Texas, sent me a brief  afnoteter getting my e-mail concerning Harry Hetrick... "Dennis, Always glad to hear from you good or bad. I've thought a lot about you lately because I keep running into Terry McGuire. More on that later, keep in touch." ---McGuire is on the loose??? Hmmmm, time to call the authorities! LOL Great to hear from you, Mike. (4/25/03)

NATHAN WILLIS ('70) in San Antonio, Texas, has become a grandfather for the 5th time. A new granddaughter was born on April 18th, weighing 8 lbs. 14 oz., at Santa Rosa Hospital. Nathan says he sure wishes his kids would sloooowww down, they're making him feel old! (4/20/03)

DAVID TRIMM ('71) in Milton, Florida, sent me an e-mail concerning our fellow classmate, RANDY OLSEN ('71). Here's what David had to say..."Dennis, Hey, how are things with you? Long time no talkey. I know you have contact with lots of folks and wanted you to know and spread the message, concerning Randy. He and I talk every couple of weeks (he's living near St. Louis) and he has been keeping me up to date on his health condition. He called me over the weekend and told me he had to go to the emergency room with heart failure and lots of fluid (40 lbs.) on his lungs. He is also on dialysis, so, these things just keep piling up on him. I am at work and don't have his contact information, but, I will get this to you. If you know others that would want to know this, I am sure Randy would love to hear from them. He is presently 'trapped' in his bedroom because, at the end of last year, he fell and messed up his ankle pretty bad and it is not healing properly. Anyway, thanks for the ear." --- David, thanks for the information on Randy. I know lots of people would like send an e-mail to Randy, however, I know the last e-mail address that I have posted on this web site is not a current one. Please, send me Randy's new e-mail address, as soon as possible. Also, if Randy is up to taking phone calls, ask him, if, I can send out his phone number. Be sure to send it to me, if, that's okay. Randy was there for me when I had my strokes back in 1995 and I, too, talk to Randy by phone every few months or so, but, must admit I haven't called in a while. I will do so. (4/16/04)

MICHELLE SMITH ('70) in Tampa, Florida, found my web page and signed the guestbook. Michelle's family transferred to Brindisi, Italy, just two days after graduation! Brindisi was where my family came from to San Antonio. To top it all off, her dad went to school with my mom and dad in Hempstead, Long Island, New York! Michelle has two beautiful daughters and lives in Tampa, Florida. I just got off the phone with her and had an hour long conversation! She sounds great!  Here's some of what she had to say... "After, we left San Antonio, my family went to Brindisi, Italy and I attended the University of Maryland in Munich, Germany. We were there for two years. I met my future and now ex -- husband, there. We were married in 1976. He also was a "military brat."  We lived outside Philadelphia for a number of years in Bucks County, PA. Then, we migrated all the way to New Jersey, in the Princeton area. We lived in New Jersey until 1998, when my daughters and I moved "home" to Tampa. My father passed away in November 2000, from cancer.  My daughters were able to spend time with their grandfather and really got to know him. They were close before but, it is different having breakfast with them on a daily basis.  My mother still lives, here, in Tampa. We are very close.  My two sisters and their families are both here in Tampa. My brother, TODD SMITH ('71), who attended John Jay through his junior year, lives in Tulsa, OK. He used to spend plenty of time in Mr. Spike's office at Jay! LOL! He ended up graduating from Vicenza High School, while, we were stationed in Italy. I am the school secretary at the private school that my youngest girl, Cassandra (Cassie) attends. She is a junior. The "Academy of the Holy Names" is a very good girls school. My oldest daughter Kathryn (Kate) is a junior at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. I was very lucky to have the opportunity to be a "stay at home mom" while my girls were growing up. I was so excited to find your web page! I poured over the photos of past reunions and found many of people had not changed.  I remember your sister, Linda. She is still very pretty!  I was glad to see that PAUL SCOTT ('70), MARIE "TONI" WILSON and DENISE RUPP had changed very little. I would love to hear from them and others. It was also great to see RAY FERGUSON ('70) and JAY FERGUSON ('70). They were great family friends.  You seem to be the same "LiveWire" that I remember. I do remember you as being very high energy." --- Michelle and I plan to stay in touch. A one hour conversation just doesn't make of for being out of touch for over 33 years! She'd love to hear from former classmates, so, feel free to drop her a line. By the way, if, anyone has an e-mail or phone number for Marie "Toni" Wilson or Denise Rupp, please, get in touch with me ASAP. (4/1/03)

MARCH 2003

DAVID VERBOIS ('71) Katy, Texas, sent me an e-mail, today... "Dear Dennis, Just thought I'd let you know that BOB MOYER ('71) had his 50th birthday party over the weekend. It had a Hawaiian theme.. HARRY LINDGREN ('70) was there and told me about the last GUYS get together, which apparently included some lively conversation, along with the graceful charms of KIM COLLIER ('73). Sounds like it was quite an event. I will try to make one of these soon when I'm in San Antonio. Life goes on here in Katy (Houston), and I have been working in the same clinic for 14 years now. We just moved into a new office, all new equipment, and are as busy as we ever were. The '67 vette is nearing completion, it's been nearly 5 years for the restoration. It may hit the streets sometime later this summer, I hope. Going to Paris in May, so I've started relearning the French I learned back at Jay from MRS. FINDER. I need to learn enough to survive the rumored rudeness the residents seem to have for the American tourists. I'll give you all the details when I get back. As always, thanks so much for this website. It is truly enjoyed more than you might know." --- David, what a surprise to hear from you! How the hell did Harry hear about the GUYS meeting, last week?? I haven't heard from him in ages! Tell that clown to call me! I'm not even sure if I have his current e-mail address. Bring me some Beatles stuff from France! (4/1/03)

KAY COMPTON ('71) Mesquite, Texas, suffered a heart attack while vacationing in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, about a week or so, ago. Now, she is back home in Texas and she called me last night. She tells me that she had just finished loading her baggage and leaving the hotel when she started feeling a tremendous pain in her chest. She asked for help, EMS was called, and the next thing she knows, she's whisked away to a hospital and the doctors are telling her that she had a heart attack. Kay is at home taking it easy. She's in good spirits and healing. Kay is one of ONLY three girls that are full-fledged members of "THE GUYS." She is very dear to us and promises to be at the April GUYS meeting. We love you, Kay! (3/20/03)

LINDA STEWART ('73) in San Antonio, Texas, dropped me a line, today... "Hi, Dennis! I just recently moved backed to San Antonio from Houston, in January. I retired from the Air Force in 1992. I am presently in a college management training program for the Army Air Force Exchange. When I finish training in May, we will PCS, like the Military, anywhere in the world. 'We go, where they go!' is our motto." ---Thanks for dropping me a line, Linda. Best of luck in your new career! (3/2/03)

VANCE VERBECK ('69) sent in an e-mail. I can't remember where he lives, but, one thing for sure, he's living well! ... "Dear Dennis. All is definitely well.  We just got back from a week's vacation in Hawaii last month.  The month, before, we spent a week in Jamaica.  September saw us spending a week in  the Bahamas.  This May, we'll be heading back to Jamaica (our 11th trip), and in July we'll be on Cayman Brac for a week.  Life is good.  Having the kids out of the house is liberating. Hope all is well with you.  I notice you haven't been writing as much as you used to.  I miss that. Brenda go me the book "The Beatles Anthology" for Christmas.  It's a heavy duty book about the size of an encyclopedia.  Check it out if you get the chance, I know you'll like it. Later amigo." ---Good to hear from you, Vance. Sounds like you're having a blast these days! Yeah, I have two copies of the Beatles, "Anthology" book. As a matter of fact, I also have two sets of the 8-volume VHS tapes of the TV show. The "Anthology" is being re-released on March 31st on DVD. It will contain 85 minutes of EXTRA footage of George, Paul & Ringo jamming as they worked on the anthology and recording "Free As A Bird" and "Real Love." It's the ONLY footage of the three remaining Beatles playing together! Be sure to get a copy! Yes, I haven't been writing much, these days. A case of burnout. There have been times, recently, when I was ready to shut down this web site. It comes and goes (especially, the financial support to keep it going). Anyway, I try to hang in with it, as best as I can. (3/1/03)

LINDA SCHNEIDER ('71) from her home in Germany, sent me an e-mail, today... "Hey, Dennis! Just a note to say, "Howdy" and I hope that all is well, and say, I am thinking about you, and days long past. It's one of those sort of days, here, dreary, cloudy, cold. I just put on the Beatles, everything, including "Yellow Submarine." Things are strange here. Almost every military member is deployed to somewhere else on the globe. Some nearer than others... Bill, my husband, is/has been in Hungary for a couple of months. I haven't done any traveling since November - but, it was an incredible journey to Egypt, enough to last a while, if, we don't get anywhere else...We are suppose to move and maybe back to San Antonio, this summer. But, all is up in the air right now, as it is for so many military people. We have seemingly "normal" days, but, then, they are interspersed with ones like the other day - waiting with a neighbor/friend to hear if it was her husband whose Blackhawk helicopter went down this week in Kuwait. We live expecting each car coming into the parking area might be the bearer of dreaded news... or the departure of another 'dad' from our stairwell...Anyway, I am looking at houses and such via the web (a difficult task) and organizing things, as if, we are moving though! It will be good to be back state-side, to 'home', though the heat and fleas and such will be an adjustment! I'll really miss Europe, but it feels like it is time to return...I hope Linda is continuing to do well, let her know I asked about her. If you "GUYS" still get together, you and KAY COMPTON give each other a hug from me, next time you see each other. Know you are thought about. I hope all is well with you! A hug- " --- Linda it's great to hear from you and I know what ya mean about playing the Beatles on dreary days. I do that all the time. I sure helps to bring back great memories of the good old days. I also pop in a Beatles movie DVD, here, on the computer, on those cold, cold rainy days! Yes, "THE GUYS" still meet in the "Mustang Room" of the Pizza Hut at Marbach & Loop 410 on the last Friday of every month at 7:30 pm. This is our 16th year straight year and we still have a blast. When ya' get back here, you have a SPECIAL INVITATION to join us! Please, know how grateful every MUSTANG is for the men and women in the U.S. Military serving around the world, especially, those who are our classmates or married to them or whose sons and daughters are serving. My sister, Linda is doing well. Now, that the chemotherapy sessions are over, her bald head is covered with a thin layer of white peachfuzz. She is anxious about growing her hair back. Last night was my mom's 70th birthday and the family got together at mom & dad's. Linda was passing around her wig for the grandchildren to try on and then she stuck it on my dad and me! What a hoot! Well, stay in touch and let me when when you're back in town, sweetie! Hope you're doing well, too! Did ya' find me any GERMAN Beatles stuff? Actung, fraulein! Love ya'! (3/1/03)

JON DAVIS ('70) in Eugene, Oregon, was in town this week to spend time with his sister, Ellen, and to visit with MARILYN MESSICK ('72), up in Boerne. He gave me a call and we met at Jim's Coffee Shop at Marbach & Loop 410 and had a blast! He's got his own business and is doing well. He brought along a photo album and, boy, did we ever have some laughs!  Jon's in GREAT shape and is a vegetarian. (I ate a club sandwich with ham, turkey and bacon, while he enjoyed cheese soup and pecan pie!) He's had an amazing life, including living in a commune! He's a real back-to-nature kinda' guy. He stays in close touch with one of his best friends from school days, PAUL SCOTT ('70). It turns out that his sister, Ellen, used to be married to the brother of SHAWN STURE ('70)! I've been looking for Shawn for 35 years! If, my memory serves me correctly, Shawn's family was transferred to Alaska, at the end of our first year of school at Jay. She and I were in the same biology class with Mr. Bartella and DEAN DUNN ('69), CLEVE HUGHES ('69), JAMES BAUM ('70) and others. Now, we've found her, thanks to Jon and his sister!! Of course, once a Mustang, always a Mustang, even if she didn't get to graduate with us. I've contacted her and hopefully we'll soon find out what she's been up to these past 35 years. (2/21/03)

Jon Davis in 1970. Jon and I enjoy a laugh at Jim's Coffee Shop 2/19/03.

MR. TERRY McGUIRE ('67-'72) in San Antonio, Texas, HAS GRAY HAIR!! Our former principal finally has gray hair! He showed up at the Wednesday evening visitation service for Mrs. Padron at Porter Loring Funeral home. We were all very surprised. Danny Padron, Cindy Powers, my sister Linda, my brother Bob and I had a great visit with him. He asked that I say hello to all the classmates for him. (Actually, I don't think he said to do that, I'm just trying to make him look good.) Speaking of looking good, he still looks so youthful because the guy has been sleeping in a Sears Kenmore FREEZER every night for the past 37 years! I introduced to Mr. McGuire to my parents. Something it only took me 37 years to do. McGuire told my folks that I was a handful back in school, and I said, "If I was so bad, how come you never had to call my parents to come in and talk with you?" And McGuire replied, "Dennis, when I couldn't find you, I knew you had to be up to something. It's just that I could never catch you at it!"  We had some great laughs. COACH ALVIN WOODS also showed up, last night, and visited with us. Seeing Mr. McGuire and Coach Woods helped us all feel better. (1/23/03)

CINDY POWERS ('71) in West Carroll, Texas, was at the services for Mrs. Padron, as she is married to the youngest Padron son, Larry. They have three fantastic sons, Matthew, Justin and Kyle, who are just like nephews-in-law to me. Matthew, the oldest, plays football for Arizona State. Look for #46, when Arizona plays on TV, next year. Cindy is teaching 10th grade and still enjoys her career. Larry works for Morgan Stanley Investors in Dallas. (1/23/03)

JOHN & ELVA (GARCIA) POWERS ('70/'70) in New Braunfels, Texas, attended  the services for Mrs. Padron. Of course, John is the brother of Cindy Powers.  John and Elva brought their grandson and granddaughter with them and they are both beautiful little children. I asked Elva if it was okay that John comes to THE GUYS meeting at the end of the month and she said, "We'll see." What a hoot! John used to come to the meetings a few years back, but, it's a long haul back to New Braunfels after a night out with THE GUYS! John and Elva gave me a donation for the web site while we visited. (1/23/03)

RAUL SAENZ ('74) in San Antonio, Texas, was so kind to stop by the funeral home for Mrs. Padron's service. Raul has a successful dental practice on Military Drive. We all had a nice visit and he says he wants to get "back in the loop" with classmates and alumni activities. (1/23/03)

JAMES BROWN ('74) [Location Unknown] sent me an e-mail asking if I knew of anyone making plans to organize a 30-year reunion for the "Class of 1974." I haven't heard of reunion plans. If, anyone knows of anything, please, contact me and I will post it here. (1/23/03)

MARK NORMAN ('71) in Louisville, Kentucky, sent me an e-mail, today... "Dennis, You are always in my prayers. You and your family have been facing more than a few challenges of late. Please know that you are thought of. This service that you provide is invaluable. There is no one else, among my non-JJHS friends, who can speak of anyone they know of with a similar passion. Thank you, Sir, for being Dennis."--- Wow! I don't know what to say to that compliment, Mark. I appreciate it very much. Yeah, it has been a rough time for the family, these past several months, but, we made it through with help from wonderful people like yourself. I often wonder what will happen to all this if something were suddenly to happen to me. I'd like to think that one of you folks would take up the torch and continue keeping the Mustangs together until we are all together for that BIG reunion "up there." As for thanking me for "being Dennis." Gee, that's all I know how to be! Yeee Haaa! (1/21/03)

LINDA McNEELY ('70) in Wichita Falls, Texas, wrote to me, back on January 6th, to list her change of address, and I am just now getting the chance to respond. She writes... "Hi Dennis, Happy New Year to you.  I hope all is well. I do so enjoy your updates on what is going on with the Mustangs. Hey, I wanted to tell you my change of address. I now reside at 1671 Victory Avenue, Wichita Falls, Texas 76301. My new phone # is 940-761-3476. I hope you have a better year, this year.  I had a close brush with death in October 2002.  I had a head-on collision. I am okay, but, still recovering from aches and pains. The broken bones have healed. Whiplash just keeps hanging on. I will get better. Take care and God bless."--- Linda, thanks for sending in the updated info. I hope that you are healing well and quickly. YOU are the one who needs to take care. You're in my prayers for a speedy and complete recovery. Have ya' gotten any snow up there, yet? (1/17/03)

MASON WRIGHT ('70) in Corpus Christi, Texas, e-mailed me to let me know that he will have a new e-mail address as of February 1st. His new e-mail address will be: mwright2@stx.rr.com (1/17/03)

RICK SANDOVAL ('71) in San Antonio, Texas, had a surprise 50th birthday party thrown by his girlfriend, Heidi, this past Saturday night. BILL MIZELL ('70) and his wife JoAnn, ED HOLLEY ('72) , and I had a great time and really put on the feed bag- sirloin steak, fajitas, sausage, bar-b-q chicken, swedish meatballs, salads, beans, and MARGARITAS! Happy Birthday, Rick-ster! (1/5/03)

MINDY FROSTO ('81) in Aliso Viejo, California, sent me an e-mail about her new web site for the "Class of 1981"... "Dennis, saw your site while doing a google search. Great job!   Was wondering if you could place a link to my MSN groups web site:http://groups.msn.com/JohnJayHSClassof1981 Just started it in December 2002 and we are up to 20 members. It's an MSN restricted site which is by invitation only - 1981 grads.  By the way, my brother David Frost (Class of '77) and sister Terry Frost Bruce (Class of '78) are also alumni of Jay. Thanks and, again, you did a great job on your web site.  Love to all.--- Mindy, thanks for letting me know about your web site for the Class of 1981. I have added a link to the INDEX of my web site. For some reason, I can't get the site to come up using Netscape, but it works fine with Internet Explorer. Keep me posted. (1/5/03)

RENITA FOSTER ('71) in Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, sent me an e-mail, today... "Dear Dennis, As always I very much enjoyed reading the latest news about all the Mustangs, past and present. You do an incredible job and I feel sure it's your (not that you didn't have it already) ticket into heaven. I only have time for a quick e-mail. You may have heard we had the first combat casualty from Afghanistan and my office provided various services since his family lived nearby. It was very hard on his mother, in particular, since Christmas Day was her birthday, but, I have to say the kind of support given by the Army, especially by the 82nd honor guard and commanding officer, was incredible. Also, New Yorkers came out of nowhere to express their sympathy so I hope the family was somewhat consoled. He was only 22 and his duty would have ended in February. I'm just praying that's the end of it, but, I imagine it won't be. My job is still writing about the infantry, here, and anything else I find interesting. So, I decided to truck up to Times Square and interview the recruiters, there, as I thought that might be an interesting place to join the Army. It turns out more people join there than anywhere else in the US. It also has the highest rejection rate, but, it was worth it to hear about all the applicants the day after 9-11, especially from the financial district.  I don't' know if I told you or not, but, two days before Thanksgiving, I found out I'd been a full colonel for two weeks, but, no one told me. Then, I couldn't find any rank and had to go to the next army post to find some. I had an infantry commander cut off the old one with a huge knife and then pin on the new one. I then threw a bash for all the infantrymen stationed here as I was determined to make the moment count in spite of the bad situation at hand. Wish you'd be here. It looks now as if I will have to stay here a while, so, I if I get back to SA I will call and we'll have dinner together, again. Take care till then." --- Renita, it's always wonderful to hear from you. Congratulations on the promotion to colonel. It's sad that we have to possibly face, yet, another war. I guess we, and the entire world for that matter, will never learn. As for your trip to the Times Square recruiting station, my GRANDFATHER, Chief Master Sgt. Willie Mack DuPriest worked there during World War II and the early 1950's! I look forward to having dinner with you, again, and this time, I'm paying!! Take care and please stay in touch! Happy New Year. (1/3/03)

Here's a photo of my grandfather, (in the center), as my dad (at right) is
sworn into the U.S. Air Force in 1950. My grandpa worked at the Times Square
New York City U.S. Military Recruiting Station and swore in all four of his sons. --Dennis

DON GOODMAN ('70) in Madison, Tennessee, wrote to me, today... "Hi Dennis, you probably already have these, but, just in case, Ed Sullivan.com web site has all the Beatles performances on his show on DVD. I haven't got them, but, thought you might be interested, if you don't have them, already. My wife gave me the Paul McCartney CD of his live shows, "Back In The USA." It is great. I told her, if, he performs in any state around us, I would go see him, but, he didn't on this tour. Not even Atlanta that i know of. I would have paid big bucks to see him. Just waiting around for the state to disapprove my disability so I can take them to court, like everybody else.  If i didn't have this house and so much in it, I would move back there, and i am still considering it. Get rid of everything and move to an apartment there. I am sure my wife could work at HEB. LOL. I do miss Texas, and my wife liked it when we visited there. I hope to get on here during chat time sometime and say hi. Take care and Happy New Year!!" --- Don, thanks for dropping me a line and the info on the Beatles. Yes, I already have those, but, thanks for keeping your eyes peeled! Happy New Year! (1/3/03)

DEBBIE HILBRICH ('74) in Houston, Texas, is the first in 2003, to send in a donation, to keep this web site going. On her check she wrote, "More to come!" Now, that's encouraging! In 2002, the traffic on this web site was so busy, I had to purchase extra download space 14 times. That runs into a lot of money and I couldn't keep this site going without the generous donations of people like Debbie. Thanks, Deb, and I hope others who enjoy this web site will send in their contributions, as well. (1/1/03)

STEVE MAYS ('70) in Great Falls, Virginia, sent in the final donation of 2002. Steve has sent an end-of-the-year donation for the past 5 years. His generosity goes a long way to keeping this crazy thing going. As always, his Christmas card shows a picture of his triplets, two boys and a girl. They're six years old, now, and still a handful. Thanks for the support, Steve! By the way, the last e-mail I sent to you came back. What's your new e-mail address? Let me know, ASAP. (1/1/03)