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.
 
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 2004
RANDY PEARSON ('71) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania sent in a great donation check to keep this site going, along with a note about the upcoming reunion... "Dennis, enclosed please find a contribution towards keeping your site up and running. As I have told you before, I, for one, appreciate your efforts greatly. Your site has allowed me to connect with some old friends from Jay and learn how life has treated them in the last 30+ years. The highlight was being able to meet with my former next door neighbor, RUTH MICKAN ('71), while in Dallas on company business. She and her beautiful family are doing well and she looks great. Sorry that I have not responded to your request about the reunion, next year. After much thought, I, regretfully, will not be able to attend. The distance from Pittsburgh being the major factor but, I must also be honest that it's the same weekend of the Pittsburgh Blues Festival, as my son reminded me. I have attended these festivals from the get-go and now, my son comes into town each year from Philly and my daughter also joins a bunch of us who party together there, each year. It's an outdoor gig and if you lived in the "burgh," you would understand. We don't get as many days as y'all to enjoy the outdoors in decent weather but, we do have the Steelers to bide us over each winter. Thanks, again, for your efforts, dude. Be cool!" ---Randy, thanks for the donation and for your note. I appreciate the wonderful support that YOU and the others provide in the effort to keep the web site going. I understand about the Blues Festival and the family outing. Family is so important these days. You have my deepest sympathy for having only the Pittsburgh Steelers to see you through each winter. The horrible pain and disappointment you suffer must be unbearable! I hope the Cowboys and Steelers tangle this season! LOL Hey, do you have Ruth's e-mail address?? I want to add her to the list. All the best to you, my friend! (6/19/04) I knew the wisecrack about the Steelers would get to Randy and he immediately wrote back... "Dennis, Man you just put my contribution to the site for next year in jeopardy. You can't talk smack on our Steelers- jeez Dennis even Charlie Daniels knew that. Just kidding - I'll let it slide since you were so kind to correct my grammar on my note! In Super Bowls played between the Steelers and the Cryboys - as we call them in the Burgh. It is Steelers 2 and Cryboys 1. Hey but,who's counting Ha! Peace" (6/24/04)

MICHELLE SMITH ('70) Tampa, Florida is really looking forward to the reunion next year. (Michelle's father went to school on Long Island, New York, with my mom and dad so, our family roots go way back.) Today, I received an outstanding check from her, as a donation for the web site, along with a lovely note... "Dear Dennis, Just a quick note to send a contribution for the web page. I, like so many other alumni, appreciate your work in keeping "us" in touch. I am so looking forward to next summer! I have so many fine memories of our year at John Jay. I am looking forward to going back to San Antonio and to attending the reunion at John Jay. It has been fun to tap into the web page and see the progress you make in contacting the alumni. You do an awesome job! I know that many of us appreciate your efforts. It is staggering to realize it has been 35 years! It probably is less staggering for you as you have seen many of our classmates in the time between graduation and now. My youngest daughter just graduated from high school, this year. Through her, I was able to relive some of the excitement of going off to college. She will be attending Loyola College in Baltimore, Maryland. My eldest daughter is relocating to Washington D.C. so, the two of them will be in close proximinty to one another. I will miss them terribly. I wanted to mention that I do remember Clair Neyland as a kind and beautiful person. In closing, I hope you are well! Dennis, Thank you! Much love, Michelle" ---Wow! It's great to hear from you, Michelle! Thank you so much for the donation check! It comes at an important time for the web site. I can't wait to see you next year at the reunion. This is going to be a blast and ya' gotta' promise me a dance or two! Thank you for your kind words and for staying in touch. Love you! (6/23/04)

DEBRA DAVIS ('73) Fort Worth, Texas sent in a generous donation check and a note to me..."Dennis, I am not sure what everyone has sent so, let me know if this isn't enough. Your words of encouragement are very nice and I do appreciate them. Keep me updated." ---Deb, never ever worry about whether your donation is enough. If, it's $1 or $100, every penny helps keep this web site going. I appreciate your generosity so very much! I'll keep ya' updated if you'll think hard about coming to the reunion next July. We'd all love to see you, girl! You need a break from old dusty, boring, Fort. Worth! Love ya'! (6/22/04)

GEORGE "CHUCK" GUERIN ('72) Broussard, Louisiana sent in a generous donation check to keep this web site percolating along. He writes... "Dennis, I told you that whenever I got back that I would send you a donation. I hope that this will help keep your web site going. Again, THANKS for bringing all of us back in touch with each other after all these years." --- Chuck promised he would make a donation and he's a man of his word. Thanks, Chuck! I appreciate your kindness and the help. It's people like YOU that make the difference. You take it easy with those old wells, dude! (6/17/04)

JANI SHIELDS ('75) San Antonio, Texas sent in a great donation check, today, and she writes (short and sweet)... "Dear Dennis, Hope this helps at least a little! Thanks for your efforts and the great web site." --- THANK YOU, Jani. Every donation to the website keeps it going another month. I thank you for taking the time to send in a donation when so many other ignore our pleas. Soon enough, this site will go offline because the financial help has dwindled. EVERYBODY LOVES THE WEBSITE, but so few people put their money where their mouth is. I thank YOU and EVERYONE who cares enough to help in any amount that they can! (6/14/04)

JANE DAWSON ('69) New York City, New York is back in touch after 30+ years. Today, I got a letter from her along with a donation for the web site! It's FANTASTIC to hear from her after all these years. She writes... "Dennis, I've just spent hours catching up on class news at your website, thanks to my daughter, Jennifer, who found the site for me. Wow! Thanks for keeping this going. I'm enclosing a donation to help out. I didn't realize that you were doing this, so I had years of catching up to do. I'm in New York now, studying for a Masters degree. I just finished the first year of a three-year program. I hope I can make it back next year for the 2005 Reunion but, right now, it's hard to know what 2005 summer plans will be. I have a son living in San Antonio and hope to visit him this summer. If I'm in town on a last Friday of the month... are you still doing THE GUYS meetings at Pizza Hut? Peace... Jane P.S. Are there any classmates in New York City?" --- Jane it is amazing to hear from you after all this time! What's happening in the BIG APPLE? I hope that you can make the reunion. Thank you so much for the very generous donation for the web site. As for THE GUYS, well we celebrate our 17th anniversary in June! 17 years of meeting on the last Friday of the month at Pizza Hut. You have a standing invitation to join us!! Thank your daughter for me for finding the site and stay in touch and the next time you visit this site, send me your e-mail address! (6/6/04)

MATT DELANEY ('70)  Santa Barbara, California sent in yet another donation for the web site and I am always grateful to hear from him. He writes, "Dennis, I know that the web site will be getting a lot of workouts this coming summer so, here is a check to help things along."  He's coming to San Antonio visit his folks later this month and he'll give me a call and we'll catch a bite to eat at Jim's Coffee Shop, like we always do, for a few laughs and memories. Be sure to give me a call, Matt. Who's turn is it to buy lunch? (6/6/04)

MAY 2004
NONE... no donations were sent in during this month.

APRIL 2004 DONATIONS
JAYNE LEFEVER ('72) San Antonio, Texas sent in a a great donation check, today, along with a note... "Dear Dennis, you don't hear to often from me on the web site but, I love seeing it and getting your e-mails. Thanks for all you do to keep everyone connected. I really appreciate it. I hope this donation will help keep the web site going. I know it's not much but, I'll try to send a little more, a little more often. Thanks, again!" ---Jayne, you are wonderful. Thanks so much for your kind words and donation. It' helps out a lot!! (4/23/04)

CARL JENSEN ('70) Newport News, Virginia has supported the old U.S. mail newsletter that I used to send out and this web site for two decades. Today, I received his annual donation for "the cause" and his generosity is amazing. Carl- thank you for your amazing generosity with your check for the web site. It totally blew me away. Please know how very much I appreciate your support of the web site, the old newsletter, and everything that I have tried to do on behalf of our class, these past 20 or so years. Without your support and encouragement, there's no way I could have done any of it. YOU have been there since the beginning and that has made all the difference in the world! Thank you, my friend, thank you for your charity, caring, and everything that makes you the wonderful friend you've been to me for over 35 years! Thanks for helping to keep the flame burning brightly! (4/16/04)

RAY WHITWORTH ('73) Terrell, Texas has sent in the first donation for the month of April. Along with the check he sent me two music and special features CD's with tunes and news from 1969 and 1970. Ray has been a radio personality and production man for many many years. Recently, he has really been promoting the Sunday night "Class Chat" on the internet. Ray-- thanks for the donations check and hang in there dude! (4/15/04).

MARCH 2004 DONATIONS
GORDON WOODS ('71) San Antonio, Texas mailed in his donation for the web site, today. He was so generous, I could almost use the check to make a down payment on new home in one of the subdivisions he handles as a realtor! Well almost. LOL Thanks for your wonderful generosity, Gordon and it's really great to have ya back in the Mustang Corral after 30+ years. (3/16/04)

GLENN BURCHARD ('69) Austin, Texas sent in a super donation, today. Glenn and his wife Melba, are fantastic people with hearts to match! They're always there with help and encouragement of every kind. Thanks for the donation, my friends. I appreciate it so very very much! (3/15/04)

STEPHEN QUINN ('72) San Antonio, Texas has sent in the first donation for March and I'm very grateful. Hey, Steve!. Thank you so much for sending in a check for the web site. It is FANTASTIC! Believe me, it is a tremendous donation and I really appreciate it. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. (3/1/04)

FEBRUARY 2004 DONATIONS

CINDY BACON ('70) Omaha, Nebraska has sent in her donation as she promised. Up to her eyeballs in snow, I send her WARM appreciation for being so generous. (2/12/04)

JANUARY 2004 DONATIONS
NEALA BRIGHAM ('72) Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has just set the "rapid response record" for someone who just found this web site and immediately sent in a donation to keep us going!! I got an e-mail from Neala, this past Saturday, January 24th. She found the web site and loves it! That e-mail was the first contact that I ever had from her. Now, today, Monday, January 26th, I get a donation check from her in the mail. Within 3 days of exploring my web site, she gets a very generous check to me! That is FANTASTIC, Neala! Thank you so very very much for your generosity and for your rapid response! That just blows me away and freaks me out! That is so groovy! I wish you all the best and I hope I get to see you next July at our multi-class reunion party! (1/26/04)

CATHY BACON ('70) Langley AFB, Virginia is the first classmate to make a donation in the New Year of 2004. Colonel Bacon (yep, she's a full colonel) has had an amazing career in the U.S. Air Force, including serving in the Pentagon. (I'm pretty sure that she had been transferred to another post before the time of the terrorist attack on September 11th.) Cathy will be retiring in April 2005 but, she hasn't let me in on her plans for retirement. She spends her free time mentoring students and doing ministry work. Cathy thanks for your annual donation and for always being there. You are a wonderful lady! No matter where in the world you have been, you have always stayed in touch and that means a lot to everyone. I hope to see ya when ya' retire! (1/1/04)

OUR CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS...
to acknowledge the passing of our former classmates and their immediate family members.


CLAIR NEYLAND  ('70)
November 3, 1951 – April 16, 2004, age 52

Our dear friend CLAIR NEYLAND ('70) died, today, Friday April 16, 2004 at about 9:15 a.m.

I was notified of Clair's passing by our classmate and wonderful friend Shirley English ('70)...
"Dennis ...Clair has been very sick and she did not want a lot of people to know.  I have the saddest news to tell you, Clair passed away, today.  She had two heart valves replaced and there were complications with the new valves, coupled with her struggle with Multiple Sclerosis. I do not have any information about services as of yet, and with the family's permission I will let you know.  I'll let you know something as soon possible. Love, Shirley"

Clair's memorial service was Monday, April 19th at 10:30 a.m. at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Chapel at 3125 N. Lamar, in Austin, Texas 78705. Ph 512-452-8811 The funeral home tells me that there was only the memorial service, as Clair wanted to be cremated and have her ashes spread out over the ocean at Port Aransas. An online obituary is posted on the funeral home's web site and you can sign a guestbook and leave a message that the family will receive: http://www.wcfish.com

Clair was born at Lackland AFB Hospital to Lt/Col Mayo W. Neyland III, USAF (Ret) and Elizabeth Flanagan Neyland.
She is survived by her mother, Elizabeth Neyland; two brothers and their wives, Mayo and Bobbi Neyland of Pflugerville and Bruce and Trisha Neyland of San Antonio; two nephews, Mayo Neyland and wife Stefanie of Pflugerville and Mathew Neyland of USMA, West Point, New York; and two nieces, Alexandra Gibbons and husband Wesley of Pflugerville and Elizabeth Neyland of Texas A&M, Galveston. Clair graduated from The University of Texas in Austin in 1974 and had been a resident of Austin since that time. She loved and was loved by her many friends through her association with Rosemary’s Catering and as a member of the board of the Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo. She loved her dogs Bailey and Jordan and the beach at Port Aransas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Lone Star Chapter, 8111 N. Stadium Dr., Suite 100, Houston, TX 77054.

A FEW PERSONAL THOUGHTS... Words can hardly express the sorrow I feel right now. About twice a year, she and I would spend over an hour on the phone laughing, remembering, and pondering. Her beauty started from within and shined so brightly though her heart. About 20 years ago, I was at a "Class of 1969" reunion and Clair came up and kissed me on my lips! A life-long dream of mine and I even got a picture of it! In fact, she kissed me twice and ever since, I have been fond of saying that it was Clair's kiss that launched all these reunions that I've hosted! Four years ago, Clair hugged and hugged me and thanked me so much for having our 30-year reunion and the chance for her to spend time with friends from our class. The joy on her face was remarkable. She had a blast at the party! Since that reunion, Clair and "the girls" (Shirley English ('70), Janice Sams ('70) and others) made it a point to stay in touch and get together every now and then to have a lot of fun. Clair was living in Austin, where her mom also lives. Clair was so proud that she had bought her own house. She and I had talked about her illness but, she wanted to keep it private and not bother anyone with it. Clair and I last spoke back around Christmas time, last year. She was working for Rosemary's Catering and handled their special events for the University of Texas. We all cherished this wonderful lady whose friendship, laughter and love will be so dearly, dearly missed. I never saw her without a smile. Our lives are richer for having known her. --- Dennis DuPriest ('70)

Thoughts from Clair's classmates and friends from John Jay High School...
(Anyone wishing to add their thoughts, please e-mail me. Dennis)
"Dennis, thank you so much for contacting us back.  As I went through Clair's e-mails, I found the recent one you sent to Clair about your upcoming reunion, as well as, the notice you sent out on Clair's passing. I certainly enjoyed seeing the picture of her that you posted on your site and in the notice you sent to your fellow classmates. She told us of all the fun she had at your last reunion. Dennis, we really appreciate you passing this information along to her many friends and former classmates. Please accept our regards." --- Clair's friends and co-workers at "Catering by Rosemary" in Austin.

"I have known Clair since 1963, in the sixth grade. I always admired the grace and elegance which she seemed to bring to everyday events and special occasions, alike.  There will be an empty place in the hearts of all those who knew and loved her. Clair Neyland was a true lady. We'll miss you, Clair." ---Wanda Darley ('70)

"Clair is in my thoughts and prayers. She was a special lady - to all of us! We will miss her!" --- Danny Padron ('69)

"The news about Clair was such a shock.  I knew she was fighting MS, but I never knew she was in a life-threatening situation with other health issues.  When I saw her at the 30 year reunion, I was again reminded of what a lovely, yet funny, person she was.  Neither time nor illness had robbed her of her inner or outer beauty.  May she rest in peace and may her family find the ability to cope with her premature passing." ---Christine Schlaeger ('71)

"Dennis...I well remember, Clair. She was always so sweet, happy, and kind to everyone.  How sad that she no longer walks this earth.  It was a shock to hear this. Thanks for all you do." ---Shawn Sture ('70)

"I was so sadden to read the news of Clair's passing. I never personally knew her but, I do remember her from school. She was always smiling and nice to everyone, even if she didn't know you. She took the time to be kind." ---Jayne Lefever ('72)

"Dennis, I just want to offer my sincere condolences in Clair's passing." --- Karen Kisling ('72)

"A rose will bloom, it then will fade. So does a youth, so does the fairest maid. Too soon, far too soon." ---Richard Henderson ('70)

"Dennis, I've been out of town on business and just returned to find the e-mail from you telling us of Clair's passing. My prayers are with her family." ---Carl Jensen ('70)

"Words are hard to find to describe the loss that we, the J.J. Mustangs who knew Clair, deeply feel. It's a terrible shame We mourn her passing but, find comfort in knowing that she is in a better place in the arms of God." ---George Hunter ('70)

"Dennis, Thank you for keeping us all aware of one another.  Clair will always have a special place in my heart, too.  My prayers are with her friends and family." ---Jan Mays ('72)

"Hi, Dennis. I really appreciate your work in keeping us all in touch.  Thanks for sharing your story about Clair's good-bye.  It is so hard to lose a dear friend. Clair was a lovely lady." ---Kathy Kisling ('70)

"Happiness, thoughts, prayers for Clair Neyland and her family. Best wishes to everyone." ---Mark Robbins ('71)

"Thank you so much for sharing about Clair.  I remember her and the lovely young woman that she was in high school.  I recall meeting her mom once, when Clair was in college, and her mom telling me about Clair’s design classes and creative flair for decorating.  I’m sure that Clair has left a legacy that surpasses anything that any of us could have imagined 30+ years ago.  I’m so pleased that the impetus to keep the Mustangs in touch came from her and that you heeded that encouragement even to this day.  Take care of yourself…we’ll be praying for Clair’s friends and family." ---Denise Wagner ('70)

"Dennis, Goodness, this really hits hard. Clair was always such a special person. I know I shared the feelings of most of the guys back at Jay who looked at her stunning beauty, gracefulness, and kindness and hoped she'd pick us out for a special smile of just an extra word or two.. You just wanted to be favored by her in some way. She made knowing her so easy because she was so approachable and rally cared about everyone. When I saw her 2-3 years ago at the last reunion, time had only enhanced a;; those things. What a loss here on earth--but what an addition to God's gathering of angels." ---Glenn Burchard ('69)

"I'm sad to hear of the recent passing of one of our first and greatest cheerleaders at John Jay. I will pass this notice on to my sister, Dolores. I'm sure that Clair is up there leading the main choir. My sister and I are ready to see everyone at the reunion party, next year. Until then, God bless." ---Sotero Lucio #22 ('70)

"So sad, Dennis, so very sad to hear the news.  I feel your pain, my friend.  I mourn her leaving us.  The only comfort I have is knowing that her suffering is behind her and that she is in a better place." ---Warren Whitaker ('70)

"She was like a big sister to me and helped me through a lot of things growing up in those awkward "teen years." Our families were close and Clair was such a wonderful person. I'm so sad that we have lost her. She certainly is in my prayers, at this special time." ---Renita Foster ('71)

"Dear Dennis, I didn't know Clair Neyland but, what a stunning girl she really was!  I am sorry for the loss of your dear friend." ---Cathy Morgante ('77)

"So sorry, about Clair. My condolences to her family and friends. I think your story about how Clair said goodbye to you was wonderful! I'm sure that you will cherish that moment you shared her goodbye to you forever." ---BettyConsani ('70)

"Dear Dennis, Thank you so much informing us about Clair.  I was sad to hear of the health problems she had to live with and her passing. And, in your final note, none of it sounded hokey or strange.  I want to thank you for sharing that experience with us.  It sounds to me like Clair passed over and is okay and she wanted you to know that. I'm sure all the angels in heaven welcomed Clair with open wings and may they watch over the rest of us, still here on earth. I wish you only good health and happiness. With much love." ---Cindy Bacon ('70)

"I was very shocked and sorry to hear about Clair.  I am glad to see so many glowing tributes to her on this site. She was a truly wonderful person." ---Janis Reynolds ('69)

"Dennis, My heart is full. When you lose someone who is so nice it hits hard. Clair was a really wonderful person in school and I understand she was that way throughout her life. My fond memories were from when I was one of Dan Schreiber's drummers in the Mustang school band and she was one of the cheerleaders performing routines to our drum rhythms. The guys loved Clair cranking up the crowd with that Mustang Spirit. She was stunningly beautiful and always smiling. This world is a better place for her being part of it. I know she met a great deal to you, especially. Be strong." ---Rick Kieffer ('72)

Emily Pauline Hix, the mother of our classmates, ROBERT FRAZIER ('72), BETTY JO (BJ) FRAZIER ('74) passed away Friday April 9, 2004. She was born in Cleburne, TX on September 10, 1920 to J.E. Maskew and Willie Oma Jackson. She is survived by her children, Charles "Butch" McMurtray and friend Ann, James McMurtray and wife Susan, Robert Frazier, Betty Jo (BJ) Frazier, Shirley Jenkins and husband Greg, Alvin W. Hix Jr. and wife Patsy; 15 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and numerous other relatives. She is missed by all who knew her. A Funeral Service was conducted at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South, 1700 Southeast Military Drive, San Antonio. Interment was at Mission Burial Park North. **** NOTE: I received this e-mail on behalf of the "Class of 1974"--: Hello Dennis: Betty Jo Frazier is from the class of 1974. We do not have her current contact information, although she has RSVP'd on classmates.com for our 30 Year Reunion scheduled for October 2004. Thank you for sharing this information. The class of 1974 would like to extend their condolences to Betty and her family for the loss of her Mother. The Frazier's are in our thoughts and prayers. John Jay Class of 1974 Priscilla Ann Sanchez-Hurt 210-365-4229.
Sgt. Lindgren (U.S. Air Force, Retired), the father of our classmate, HARRY LINDGREN ('70) passed away on February 17, 2004. Harry is one of "The Guys" that meets with us on the last Friday of every month at Pizza Hut. All "The Guys" and John Jay classmates express their best wishes to Harry, his mom, brothers and family in their time of loss and sorrow.
Geraldine (Wilson) Ladson, a longtime Northside School District teacher, who was on the faculty of John Jay High School for 29 years, died on Saturday, January 17, 2004. She was 55 years old. She taught school for 32 years, as
an English teacher, and she shared her love of literature, reading and grammar with her family, friends and students. Ladson had been battling brain cancer but, died of kidney failure Saturday, January 17th. She spent the last three years at John Marshall High School. She was one of four children and was born in Selma, Alabama, but raised in Macon, Georgia. She received a degree in English from Tennessee State University and a master's in curriculum and instruction from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Alfred Ladson Jr. and her three daughters.
Thomas Beauch, the father of our classmates Linda Beauch Bullard (73), Jackie Beauch ('74), Donna Beauch ('77) and died on Christmas Eve. He was bravely fighting brain cancer.  (Linda's is the only e-mail address that I have and you can send her a message by clicking on her name, above.) We extend our sympathies and heartfelt love to the sisters and their families. Thomas A. Beauch, age 72, of San Antonio, Texas, died Wednesday, December 24, 2003. He was a retired Master Sergeant of the U.S. Air Force. He is survived by his wife, Janet Beauch; children, Linda Bullard, Jacqueline Hacker and her husband, Phil and Donna Adams; brother and sister, Birney Beauch and Jacqueline McGee; six grandchildren.

"CLASS OF 1974": 30-YEAR REUNION
WHERE AND WHEN: On Saturday night, October 9, 2004, the "Class of 1974" will host a reunion party at Sam's Burger Joint, 330 E. Grayson Street, San Antonio, TX. This event will be extremely casual. We'll have a DJ to play "our" 70s music and any other music we may want. The room is private and reserved only for us. This party is for Jay alumni and their guests. Due to the sale of alcohol in the private room, those under the age of 21 may not be allowed, although this is not confirmed. As always, please contact us with your ideas, suggestions, questions and contact information. COST: The committee has tried to make this reunion reasonable in cost while providing everyone plenty of choices for refreshments. There will be a very nominal cost at the door because there are costs being incurred by the committee members and Sam’s Burger Joint to host our reunion. We will establish the cost and inform everyone well before the night of the reunion. HOW YOU CAN HELP: Send us any contact information you have for our classmates, including those who would have graduated with us but moved and, therefore, graduated from other schools. E-mail addresses and telephone numbers are best; mailing addresses are good too.

ART REYNA (210) 365-6015 or PRISCILLA (SANCHEZ) HURT (210) 365-4229


"CLASS OF 1979": 25-YEAR REUNION
A 25-year reunion for the "Class of 1979" is scheduled for October 2004. For more information or to add your address to their mailing list, please, contact any of the following people: YVONNE (MORALES) FERNANDEZ or at (210) 681-4668,  MIKE HARRIS at (210) 680-3704 and  SONYA (BARRERA) SEGURA  or at (254) 965-6780.
CLASSMATE NEWS: 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-DECEMBER 2003.

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

MUSTANGS RETURN TO THE CORRAL!
When Mustangs find this web site for the first time, I say that they've returned to the John Jay Alumni Corral and I list them in this section. If they have a "line" under the name, then, it's an e-mail link. Just click on the name and write them an e-mail. It's that simple! These are the people we've found or they've found us in the past six months or so. Feel free to contact them, they'd love to hear from you! As I always say, here, "Once, A Mighty Mustang, always, a Mighty Mustang!" 

NEALA BRIGHAM ('72) Chapel Hill, North Carolina
WILLIAM GRIZZELL ('73) Port Saint John, Florida
TONY SORIA ('70) Bell Canyon, California
RANDY OLSEN ('71) Fallon, Illinois
GORDON WOODS ('71) San Antonio, Texas
JAY BOMBERGER ('72) Texarkana, Texas
GLENN HUTTO ('71), La Porte, Texas
KAY BRANDHORST ('72), Denison, Texas
JIM COPSEY ('70) Los Lunas, New Mexico
LORA HERNANDEZ ('72) Boerne, Texas
BILL PIPPIN ('71) Boerne, Texas
MANFRED "MANNY" HILL ('69) Smithville, Texas
DANIEL PETRO ('70) San Antonio, Texas
YOLANDA HERNANDEZ ('69) San Antonio, Texas
WALLACE COLLINS ('71) San Antonio, Texas
TIM HALLORAN ('71) Cypress, Texas
VANESSA ROBBINS ('69) Goldsboro, North Carolina
ARCHIE RHINES ('71) San Antonio, Texas
CORA (BRANDT) RHINES ('71) San Antonio, Texas
JEFF ENNIS ('74) San Antonio, Texas
FAYE (HOBBS) ENNIS ('77) San Antonio, Texas
ROBERT CARROLL ('69) San Antonio, Texas
DEBRA DAVIS ('71) Fort Worth, Texas
 JEAN JACKSON ('74) Wichita Falls, Texas
JOHN PERKINS ('74)  San Antonio, Texas
FRANKIE WIND ('72) Tacoma, Washington
EILEEN SCHLAEGER ('76) Fairfax, Virgina
JANI SHIELDS ('75) San Antonio, Texas
JOE GLOD ('69) Arlington, Texas
DEBBIE (GEISEN) GLOD ('71) Arlington, Texas
DENISE KNUTSON ('70) San Antonio, Texas
CINDY RADDATZ ('75) Tomball, Texas
LEAMON LIGON ('74) Gainesville, Texas
YVETTE STEWART ('75) Clinton, New York
MICHELLE NELSON ('72) San Antonio, Texas
MARY GIBSON ('71) San Antonio, Texas
CHUCK GUERIN ('72) Broussard, Louisiana;
BETTY JO FRAZIER ('74) San Antonio, Texas
PAULA EDGIN ('70) Smithfield, Virgina
JANE DAWSON ('69) New York City, New York
JANET MAYS ('72) Atlanta, Georgia
ARTHUR McKINNEY ('73) Bonita, California
BETTY SANCHEZ ('72) San Antonio, Texas
RANDY SANCHEZ ('73) San Antonio, Texas
PRISCILLA SANCHEZ ('74) San Antonio, Texas


MUSTANGS BUST LOOSE FROM THE CORRAL!
E-mail to the following Mustangs came back. That means that their e-mail addresses have changed without telling me and I have dropped them from my mailing list (not from the e-mail listing on the web site, though). If, anyone has new e-mail addresses for the following people, let me know ASAP: GERALD GILES ('70), CINDY URBACH ('72), RICHARD OLSEN ('70), MELANIE MILLER ('72), DRU TREVINO ('72),

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO...

Dear Dennis, Whatever happened to the CIRCLE K convenience store that used to be on Meadow Way?
Well, they had a murder there, back in the 70's, and the store closed down. It's now a non-denominational church. Great question. Thanks for asking.

Dear Dennis, Whatever happened to the LONE STAR ICE HOUSE that used to be next to the parking lot near John Jay? ... Well, it became a MRS. BAIRD USED BREAD STORE but, recently closed down. It's now a non-denominational church. Great question. Thanks for asking.

Dear Dennis, Whatever happened to the MR. TEXAS GYM that used to be in the shopping center off Meadow Way and Marbach Road? ... Well, my brother TOM used to own that. It shut down, became an office for some politician and that shut down. It's now a non-denominational church. Great question. Thanks for asking.

Dear Dennis, Whatever happened to the old H.E.B. that used to be in the shopping center off Meadow Way and Marbach Road? Well, it moved across Loop 410 and Marbach. The building then became a WEINER'S clothing store and then closed. It's now a non-denominational church. Great question. Thanks for asking.

Dear Dennis, Whatever happened to the lawyers office at the corner of Timbercreek and the S.W. Loop 410 access road? ... Well, part of it became a used car lot. The rest of it became a bookstore but, it also closed down. It's now a non-denominational church. Great question. Thanks for asking.

Dear Dennis, Whatever happened to the LA CASITA Ice House on Marbach Road that was owned by the paretns of our classmates Robert and Rudy Reyes? ... Well, the place was torn down many years ago and the building and the Reyes home were demolished. Today, there's a huge Baptist church on the site. Great question. Thanks for asking.

Dear Dennis, Whatever happened to the Holy Tabernacle Non-Denominational Church that used to be right across John Jay on Marbach? ... Well, it shut down. It's now a Mexican Restaurant. Great question. Thanks for asking.

Dear Dennis, Whatever happened to the Bandera Road Drive-in Theatre, the Valley-Hi Drive-In Theatre and the Lackland Drive-In Theatre? Well, let's see--- The Bandera Road Drive-in was torn down a long time ago and a shopping center built in its place. The (porno) Lackland Drive-In was torn down a long time ago and a shopping center built in its place. And the Valley-Hi Drive-In was torn down a long time ago and was just an empty field for many years. The land has now been cleared, levelled and streets put in and new houses are being built. It's becoming a subdivision. And somewhere, a house sits on the few square feet where I lost my vir- - - -. Oops... Well, sorta... During the intermission of "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," we took off some of our clothes and we started to..... but, oh that's another story for another time. Great question. Thanks for asking.
SHINDIG V
THE REUNION PARTY 2005 (Tentative)
(That's SHINDIG 5 for those of you that flunked Roman Numerals in Mrs. Valentine's trig class, like I did.)

1. At this point in planning, the dates are Friday and Saturday, July 15th and 16th, 2005. No Sunday picnic this time around.

2. It's hot as hell here in July, that's why we have only INDOOR AIR CONDITIONED ACTIVITIES. We hold it in July because most people take vacations during the summer and lots of you still have kids in school. Logical, right?

3. Friday the 15th is our usual alumni & family social in the John Jay HAS. cafeteria and a tour of the school from 6:00-9:00pm..

4. After the Friday night social at the school, I hope to set up a place where we can all gather for food and fun.

5. Saturday the 16th alumni (adults only) evening dinner and dance and my usual antics- from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00a.m. or so. Location still to be determined. I do my best to keep costs down WITHOUT going CHEAP. I won't go CHEAP. Inexpensive to moderate but NEVER cheap. Usual price is $35 single and $60 a couple. Prices have not been set. That's just the average that we have charged over the past 20 years at our other Shindigs. (Geez... 20 years!!)

6. We will take a panoramic photo of all alumni at 7:00 pm, SHARP. If you ain't there, you miss out. This is the very same company that took our Senior class photos over 30 years ago!!

7. Danny Padron and I throw this party every five years to mainly celebrate the FIRST THREE ORIGINAL CLASSES OF JOHN JAY HIGH SCHOOL. This the 36th reunion year for the Class of 1969; the 35th reunion year for the Class of 1970; and the 34th year reunion for the Class of 1971. (Jay did not have a Senior class its very first year. The claim to fame for the Class of '69 was that they were the first graduating class. The claim to fame for the Class of 1970 is that they were just the damn coolest class ever. (Before or since!!) And the Class of 1971 fame is that it was the first 4-year class from Jay.) [Take all those boasts with a grain of salt.] We three classes have a very special bond BUT that is not to say the rest of the classes are left out. You younger kids are our little brothers and sisters (for the most part) and we want you to join us. This party is not meant to replace any other reunions for the Classes of 1972 onward. We just welcome you to party with us. If you want to organize your own reunions, by all means, do so! But you are very welcome to party with us "older folks." I will do my best to acknowledge all classes at the Saturday night dinner-dance. I just wanted to give you the foundation and roots of this thing and see where we're coming from.

8. I still need to hear from about 75% of the people I e-mailed. PLEASE respond by the end of this week. Just tell if you're planning on coming and how many. PLEASE. At this point, you are NOT obligated at all.

9. TEACHERS ARE FREE. Now that I work for a school district, I now the PAIN you former teachers are feeling with the TRS (Teacher Retirement System). (Except for Mr. Guerra and Mr. Chessir. Those guys are as wealthy as Donald Trump and Bill Gates combined!!) I'll never be able to retire on TRS!! Anyway, teachers need to respond to this ASAP. You are our GUESTS! Just contact me.

10. For those of you who sent me little notes with your e-mail reply, I will try to answer you as soon as possible. It may take a while. Remember I have received over 100 e-mails and I'm an old man. Gimmie time.

11. YES, we can still use donations, money, charity, and all that stuff to keep the web site going. In fact, as of this month, I  expect to see a tremendous increase in traffic on my site. I am going to have to buy more download traffic units at about $22 a whack several times a month. (hee hee I said, WHACK) No donation is to small and sure as hell ain't to large!! If you can help, just see the note at the bottom of this lengthy e-mail.

12. YES, in a few days, I will send a list out with the names of people who are intending to attend! Gimmie some time!

13. Feel free to e-mail me with any questions, comments or other positive stuff. I ain't taking any gripes this time around. I'm too old for that crap and Danny's WAY older than me!

14. Remember, I am not mailing anything by U.S. mail on this. All information is ONLY available by e-mail or on my web site. http://dennis52.home.texas.net If you are in touch with ANY of your former classmates, especially your brothers and sisters, please, check with them to see of they are on my e-mailing list. Get the information to them or have them contact me! My home phone is (210) 674-6767.

For those who have responded... THANKS AND GOD BLESS YOU! For those who have not yet responded to the e-mails... HEY, DUDES! LET'S GET ON THE BALL!!
CHRISTINE SCHLAEGER ('71) & JOHN CAMPBELL'S ('69) SON NAMED HEAD FOOTBALL COACH AT JOHN JAY HIGH SCHOOL AND HE'S MARRIED TO ANOTHER CLASSMATE'S SISTER!
Can you believe it!! Do you remember, JOHN CAMPBELL ('69) and CHRISTINE SCHLAEGER ('71)? They were a couple back at Jay and were married for many years after that, although they are divorced, now. Well, John and Christine's son, JOHN CAMPBELL, JR. has just been named HEAD FOOTBALL COACH at John Jay H.S.!! Can you believe that!! Ohhhh, the years are creeping up on us at a rapid pace!!! Congrats to John, John, and Chris!! I don't have an e-mail address for John. If, anyone does, please get it to me, ASAP.

Get a load of this....classmate, JOE HINOJOZA ('72) tells me in an e-mail... "Dennis, I'd like to share this good news, as well, with all Jay Alumni. You talk about a small world, my sister Mirella Campbell, who was Mirella Hinojosa, at one time, is married to the new head football coach at Jay, JOHN CAMPBELL, JR. I am happy to say, they have two lovely kids. Mirella is a gradute of UTSA, and teaches 4th grade at Mary Hull Elementary.

CURRENT CLASSMATE NEWS

JUNE 2004

MATT DELANEY ('70) Santa Barbara, California is in town for about a week. His dad is having hip surgery at Wilford Hall. I gotta' give Matt credit, there are very few people that can carry on as stimulating a conversation as he does. I'm not talking just idle chit-chat, he and I really debate stuff over a salad or club sandwich! This guy is so damn fascinating and all the things he does out in California! As always, we had lunch at JIM's at Marbach and Loop 410 and, in an instant, 3 hours had passed PLUS he paid for lunch! When we get to talking about religion or politics, look out! I thank Matt for his friendship and it's always so great to see him. He'll be back in town in November for Thanksgiving. (6/19/04)

MARY "MIMI" VERBOIS ('69) Dixon, Illinois (the home town of President Ronald Reagan) sent me an e-mail, today. I love hearing from this wonderful lady! She has a heart of gold! She writes... "Hi Dennis, This is Mary alias "Mimi" (69). I am planning on coming in July 2005, but, I may need that personal invitation from DANNY PADRON ('69)...LOL!! I am also hoping to bring my sister, MARGUERITE VERBOIS ('79), who lives across town from me in Dixon, IL. The want-a-be-Mascot Yay! Dixon, Illinois is where President Reagan lived and went to school. And on our journey to get to San Antonio for the reunion, we are also hoping to stop in Katy, Texas and get my brother, DAVID VERBOIS ('71),  and drag him along with us. (Surprise David!!) So hopefully the whole "famdamly" will show up. My husband and I were in Chicago a couple of week ago and saw the band,"LOS LONELY BOYS" perform at a quaint, small theater, along with my middle son, Rob. They are from Austin, Texas,(I think) and are a Tex Mex Band. Three brothers and they are just hitting the scene and are one of Willie Nelson's favorite uncoming bands. Matter of fact, they were to be his front band on his summer tour that has since been cancelled and are now going to front for the Adler Brothers. ANYWAY, they are AWESOME....just the kind of band that would be great at our reunion....hint hint hint!! Just an idea....or wishful thinking, LOL!! Check them out for your own personal enjoyment. I have their CD and I love to listen to it.....takes me back to San Antonio, Texas....."Little Mexico!" Okay, add three more to your count for July 2005 and hopefully we will all be able to make it down. Take care, "Keeper of the Flame" and I will check in with you later. [Dennis, has anyone found HARLEY ELLIOT (69) yet?] Love, Luck, Laughter, Mimi" --- Now, that's the kind of great e-mail I like to get from folks! OK- let's address your concerns... a personal invitation from Danny. Fine, no problem. Send me your phone number and consider it done. NEXT-- Ya' live in President Regan's home town. Well, I know there is a museum for him there. I want a Ronald Reagan coffee mug! NEXT-- ya' want Los Lonely Boys to play at the reunion. Hmmmm, I was negotiating with Paul McCartney & Ringo Starr, along with Led Zeppelin to play for us. Guess I'll drop that idea. NEXT-- Haven't found Harley Elliot yet, but I'm looking.  FINALLY-- you say you will "check in" with me. Does that mean you're sending in a "donation check" to keep this web site going? GREAT!!! Thank you so, so much!! I'll be watching the mailbox for it to arrive any day now. Love you!! (6/9/04)

JAMIE SUNDBERG ('71) Not sure where she lives... Sent me a notice about her brother KENT SUNDBERG ('70) "Hi Dennis, my brother is undergoing surgery on his back this Thursday (6/10/04) at the VA hospital in Omaha, so please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Thanks!" --- Jamie, he's in all our prayers for a speedy recovery. Be sure to keep us posted on him. Hope to see the both of you at the reunion next year! (6/9/04)

ARCHIE & CORA (BRANDT) RHINES ('71/'71) San Antonio, Texas have returned to San Antonio! They sent in an e-mail... " Dennis, enjoyed your website.  Google put me there. Thought you might care to add my and Cora's email address to the class of 1971. Yep, we the senior class couple of 1971 are still together after 32 years of marriage. We just moved back to San Antonio and are enjoying catching up with what we missed! That's great! We made the 20th reunion. It was great to see our friends. Count us in for 2005. If we can help, let us know. It seems you must be somewhat of a local celebrity from the read on your website. Are you working on your own? What is your specialty? We have definitely been out of touch. It took a major career change to get Cora and I back to San Antonio. I exchanged automation sales for real estate investing. My dad passed away early this year and I needed to get back to help with family. I looked around and thought, 'Why not real estate?' I started a real estate investment business a couple months ago and am really enjoying the change of pace.On a side note, ever hear anything out of Paul Oefinger of 1971?" --- Archie and Cora, it's great to hear from you after all these years. It's also great to know that you're still married after 32 years! That's outstanding. Sorry to hear of your dad passing away. I have added you to my e-mail list and to the e-mail links page here on the website.  Glad ya' like the website. I haven't heard from Paul but, I think his brother checks in every now and then. Maybe he'll read this and get in touch with you! (6/7/04)

JANET MAYS ('72) Atlanta, Georgia sent me an e-mail after finding my website. I must apologize to her. She e-mail me several weeks ago and somehoe I overlooked it. At the time, she wrote... "Dear Dennis, just want to say thank you for all of your efforts to keep us all in contact with one another. I'm now living and teaching elementary school near Atlanta, Georgia.  I've been trying to locate any information about another Jay grad.  Have you heard from ROY VASQUEZ?  I think he was Class of '72, but, I'm not positive. If, anyone wants to contact me, please, use my work email address.  I'll be checking occassionally during June and July, but we report back to school Aug. 2! Again, thanks for the memories! "We're the best of all of you.  We're the class of '72!" --- Janet, forgive me for my late reply. Things got lost in the shuffle. I have added you to my e-mail list and to the e-mail links page. Sorry, I don't have any information on Roy. Please be sure to stay in touch and I hope you'll join your brother, Steve, at the reunion party next year. It's going to be a blast! (6/7/04)

CHUCK GUERIN ('72) in Broussard, Louisiana has found the website and his e-mail intrigues me. He signs off with the term "Deepwater Nautilus". Could it be he's and underwater explorer like Jaques Cousteau? Tell me more, Chuck! "Hello Dennis, I discovered your web site a couple of weeks ago and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it.  It brought back a lot of memories reading about people I haven't heard from since my days at Jay.  I haven't made it back home since my parents passed away but I will make plans to be there in July 2005 and if I make it before than I'll make sure to give you a call.  That does work both ways, If, you ever travel down I-10 thru Lafayette La. and feel like eating some good Cajun food, don't hesitate to call & that's a offer to all my other Jay alumni's (my treat). P.S. I will be sending you a check to help keep a good thing going, when I get back in. Chuck, Deepwater Nautilus" ---OK, I gotta know what all this deepwater is about, Chuck! It's good to have ya back with us. Fill me in on what you do these days! I see by your e-mail address that you work for Shell Oil. So does, GLENN HUTTO ('71). He's a MAD SCIENTIST or something for them in Houston. All the best and stay in touch! (6/5/04) Well, I did hear back from Chuck and here's what he had to say... "Hey Dennis, good to hear from you.  The deepwater thing is the name of the drilling rig I work on "Deepwater Nautilus", I'll attach a picture of the rig, we are currently working in about 9,800' of water (lots of big fish).  I work for a company called Petroleum Co-Ordinators which is contracted out to Shell ( that explains the e-mail).  I handle all the personnel and material coming out or going in plus I'm in charge of keeping up with all money spent on each well which can be a pain in the butt when your looking at millions but, I've been doing this for quite awhile now I can't remember what I was doing before.  Seems like the older I get the more brain cells leave." 
MAY 2004
WARREN WHITAKER ('70) Austin, Texas and his brother, GLENN WHITAKER ('72) Langley AFB, Virginia, mugged me!! It was about 11:45 A.M. yesterday morning (Saturday, 5/22/04) and as usual, I was still in bed sleeping. My doorbell rand and I got up and went to the famous front bathroom window, where I greet everyone who wakes me up. It's sorta like how the Pope greets people from his balcony at the Vatican! Anyway, I raised the window and standing on my doorstep were Warren and Glenn. Warren works at UT-Austin and Glenn is a Colonel in the Air Force. What a surprise! Glenn had brought me a HUGE coffee mug all the way from Starbucks in SAUDI ARABIA!! Can you believe that!! I was still wiped out from being asleep and Warren and Glenn were headed out to the golf course so, we only talked for a moment or two. Hell, I don't think I even raised the bathroom window high enough to see their faces! And I probably didn't make much sense in my conversation. It takes me like 10 minutes to be coherent! LOL Well, thanks for mugging me, guys! I promise to be more awake, next time! (5/23/04)

TIM HALLORAN ('71) Cypress, Texas, tracked down the web site and sent in this e-mail for an update on what he's been doing..."Hi, Dennis, I talked with TONY SORIA ('70) a few weeks ago.  >From time to time we'll contact each other just to stay in touch and talk about the fun stuff we did growing up in San Antonio.  After our conversation I wanted to establish some kinda contact with friends from Jay and thought there's no better place than your site.  Please keep me in your email list for any upcoming events and possible reunions. I live in Cypress, Texas, a suburb of Houston.  It's been about 32 years since I left San Antonio to attend Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX.  Recieved my B.S. in Agribusiness.  After colleg I had a great desire for ranching back then but settled down to work with Allstate Insurance.  Now I have an established insurance and financial agency in Houston.  Still putting in lots of hours at my agency while being active with a local Boy Scout Troop which our two boys Jarad & Bryan. It keeps me busy while my wife Laura runs the homestead with our chocolate lab Maggie.  Maggie is young and full of energy (she loves to chew anything).  Friends tell me she'll eventually grow out of this stage in about 3 more years. Please keep in touch.  Our home address is:  18318 Arbormont Dr., Cypress, TX  77429.  Home phone 281-373-9566, office 281-469-4292." ---Tim, it's great to hear from you after all these years. Glad you're in touch and hope you'll join us for the reunion in July 2005! (5/23/04) 

NATHAN WILLIS ('70) San Antonio, Texas is a grandpa again! He writes... "Dennis, This evening, my daughter Stephanie (John Jay HS "Class of '99") gave birth to a 4 lb 15 oz girl, at 10:08 P.M. tonight, May 7th. Her name is Samantha.  The event occurred at the Baptist Memorial Hospital downtown, while I was baby sitting her brother and sister.  Mother and daughter are doing well even though her weight concerns me.  Pictures to follow tomorrow.  Be safe and take care all." ---Well, congratulations grampa! (5/9/04)
APRIL 2004
RICK SANDOVAL ('71) San Antonio, Texas had a party and B-B-Q, today, for his don David, who just returned from six months duty in Afghanistan, followed by eight months in Iraq! David even brought me a coffeee mug from Fort Bragg, North Carolina where he is stationed. He's a paratrooper in the U.S. Army and has seen his share of action. My thanks to Rick and his gorgeous wife, Heidi, for inviting me over to share the occasion with family and friends. I had blast! (4/24/04)

SHAWN STURE ('70) Junction City, Oregon is still on the fence about coming to the reunion in July 2005. In her recent e-mail she writes... "Dear Dennis, I have been thinking about the reunion issue.  I may come, although I am feeling timid about not knowing or remembering many people. I didn't respond earlier, because I didn't have a clear answer...and I still don't!  Thanks for keeping in touch, or is that, "keeping the torch"...anyway, thanks for all you do! Love, Shawn." --- Sweetie, I'll tell ya what. The ONLY person you need to know to have a blast at the reunion is ME! So start packing! I haven't seen you in 30+ years and I ain't gonna miss the chance! Everyone wants to see you!! Please come! (4/21/04)

CARL JENSEN ('70) Newport News, Virgina sent me an e-mail today..."Dennis, I have been out of town on business and just returned to find the e-mail from you telling us of Clair's passing. My prayers are with her family. It has been a long month for me as well, with the passing of a dear friend from complications from cancer and then while TDY receiving the report fromIraq of a young airman from one of our deployed tactical radar squadrons being killed in his tent in a mortar attack. Dennis let me tell you about one positive thing that has happened though.  Through your web site where I got his address, I have been corresponding with George Hunter who until just recently has been deployed in Iraq.  As it turns out Mark Loiselle's stepson Brandon is also deployed to Iraq and over a couple of exchanges of e-mails I did an electronic introduction for the two and they had hoped to hook up in and around Baghdad International.  Fortunately for George (I'm sure George would say unfortunately!), he has been pulled out of Iraq for security reasons but is still in the region and hopes to return to continue his work.  As I'm sure you know from recent news reports it seems to have gotten as dangerous for those out of uniform working in Iraq as those who are in uniform. Keep George in your prayers as he will probably go back in. Brandon is a member of an Army National Guard unit that was activated for  duty and deployed some months back and is one of the units that has just been ordered to extend another 90-120 days in-country.  Brandon, his family, and his unit could surely use our prayers. Dennis, thanks for all the work you do." --- Carl thanks for your kind words and generosity. Your friendship means the world to me. (4/19/04)
 
FLORA HERNANDEZ ('72) San Antonio, Texas was recently told about my website and next year's BIG reunion party by one of the sweetest ladies I know, VICKI CAFFEY ('72). Flora is the Events Services Coordinator for the San Antonio Convention Facilities and I just may ask her to help us find someplace for the reunion. She's so happy to know about the web site and upcoming party. Well, let me let Flora explain it... "Hi Dennis, I just received the invite from Vicki Caffey, for the upcoming July reunion. Sorry I missed last years. This year sounds like a blast, count me in. I’ve also tried contacting Cindy Urbach and Dru Trevino, from the e-mails listed on the web site. They both came back undeliverable. I know you have a lot on your plate, but if you hear from either of them, please give them my e-mail address. I think what you’ve been doing is great! I know it’s extremely time consuming, but I’m sure also very rewarding. I can’t believe how many people write in and keep in touch! I agree with you when you say that the high school years at Jay were memorable and happy times! Keep up the good work,! --- Thanks, Flora. Yes, there are many e-mail address on the link page that are outdated. I can only update them when people send me new ones. Cindy Urbach lives in Pueblo, Colorado and she and I have the same birthday. I just have to reply on people to keep me up-to-date. It's great to have ya back with us and I look forwrd to seeing ya at the reunion if, not before! (4/15/04)

MARCH 2004
GLENN BURCHARD ('69) Austin, Texas sent in a great donation for the web site, today, along with a short note... "Dear Dennis, just wanted to contribute to the cause! I hope that everything if going well for you. Sorry to hear about the burning down of the 7 Oaks Resort (Sheraton). I spearheaded the 1969 Senior prom so, I have some vivid memories of that place. They'll probably put up a Taco Cabana up freont, and a junkyard in the back. Hey, how about a flea market? LOL Don't forget to include me when you and Danny (Padron) get your heads together for SHINDIG '05. You know I'll help! Say-- check out http://www.kdradio.com It's an online radio station with tunes from the '50s, '60s and '70s. They play stuff you haven't heard in years! I'm listening to "Disco Duck" as I'm writing to you, right now! Sublime and horrifying at the same all at once. All the best." --- Glenn, it's always great to hear from you, my friend. Thanks for volunteering to help Danny and I with the reunion party next year. To tell ya the truth, in the last few days I was ready to blow it off, feeling like I was too old for this stuff! LOL. Thanks for the donation check and all the encouragement and support you've given me over the years! Thanks for your friendship! (3/15/04)

DENNIS DUPRIEST ('70) San Antonio, Texas... Do ya' remember BRUCE HATHAWAY, San Antonio's Top DJ in the '60s and '70's on KTSA radio? Well, Bruce and I have stayed in touch over the past 35 years, along with other people from the old "SWINGTIME" TV show. This coming Wednesday, I'll be having dinner with Bruce and SHARI ADCOCK, whose mom owned and produced the show. You remember Shari... the beautiful blonde babe! Her dance partner, MIKE BROWN will also be with us. Hard to believe that I was once skinny enough to be a "Swingtime Swinger" dancer on the show. By the way, I don't know if ya' know this or not but, in my spare time, I am a freelance writer and have been writing radio commercials for KTSA and KTFM (now KSRX) for the past 8 years. I have also written for KMFR, WOAI, and KLUP. If, you have a Super S Foods grocery store in your town, you'll be surprised to know that I write the press releases for them and have for about the past 9 years! On another San Antonio radio note, a former KONO radio DJ that you'll remember from our high school days, B. BAILEY BROWN died about two months ago. B. Bailey and I worked together when I had a show at KKYX radio back in the '80s. He was back doing weekends at KONO, after about 25 years, when he passed away. He was a cool dude. (3/13/04)

WANDA DARLEY ('70) San Antonio, Texas has a new e-mail address. Click on her name to get it. (3/13/04)

RANDY OLSEN ('71) in Illionis, is back with us after a change of e-mail address. He's doing better these days. Drop him a line when you can. (3/13/04)

GORDON WOODS ('71) San Antonio, Texas found my web site and signed the guest book back on February 20th, but I forgot to mention it here. It has been 30 years since I last heard from him. He graduated from SMU in 1975 and has been a CPA since 1976. He moved back to San Antonio from Dallas in 1978.  He is a real estate developer involved in 10 subdivisons with over 1600 lots and he's handling a 184-lot subdivison at Medina Base Road and Palm Valley. (I drive by there every day!). He says he just can't leave our "old area" undeveloped! When he answered the question in the guestbook- "Who's your favorite Beatle?" he answered- Volkswagen. LOL Gordon sent in a BIG donation for the web site and in his note he said, he'd buy me lunch! Dude! I'll be calling soon. It's great to have ya back with the rest of the Mustangs, Gordon. (3/13/04)

BULLETIN! THIS JUST IN... As I write to you, at this very moment (Friday night 3/5/04 at 10:02 pm.), from my bedside, the "7 Oaks Resort" (formerly the Sheraton Motor Inn) on Austin Highway, where the "Classes of 1969 and 1970" had their Senior Prom, is burning to the ground. They just just showed a LIVE shot from the site. The fire is huge and out of control. The hotel complex will undoubtedly be totally destroyed. It has been abandoned for quite a while and was going to be renovated. Just thought I would let y'all know. (3/5/04) UPDATE: The resort is a total loss and the entire complex is being bulldozed to the ground. (3/9/04)
FEBRUARY 2003
DENNIS DUPRIEST ('70) San Antonio, Texas. I was mugged 3X, this past Monday, February 23rd. I didn't get home until 9:30 p.m. after a school board meeting. I made some supper and went straight to bed. The next morning as I walked out the door, I looked at the small school desk that I have sitting on my front porch. There was a BIG package on top of the desk. I stopped, opened it up and there were THREE coffee mugs inside! This time, there was also a card. I had been mugged by SHEILA O'KANE ('74) from up in the Dallas, area (I think). Here's her note to me... "Hi, Dennis, Thank you for all that you do in maintaining the web site for all John Jay students! What an awesome task!! Well, as you can see, you've been MUGGED again. These three mugs are special to me and I pass them on to you. The "Snowbaby" mug is because I collect them and love them. I love you for all your dedication in keeping us all informed. The enclose "Volunteer" mug is because of you volunteering your time and efforts for the website. The "Tough Love" mug signifies the tough times I've had in raising teenagers! But I made it!It also reminds me of the tough times we all had growing up in our high school years at John Jay. But, hey, tough times make us all what we are, today. I know you have tough times sometimes keeping the website going. Hang on there. The tough love mug is close to my heart, just as you are. Enjoy them all. I hope, one day,  to meet ya' in person. Hugs, Sheila."  ---WOW! Shelia thanks so much for the wonderful mugs and for the story behind each of them. Thanks for your genersoity, your warm giving spirit, and you love! (3/1/04)

ANOTHER MUGGING!!!!!
I WAS MUGGED, YESTERDAY, (Thursday, 2/19/04)! Actually. I was mugged, twice! Most all of you know that I have a MASSIVE coffee mug collection. Over the years, classmates have sent or dropped off "landmark" coffee mugs to add to my collection. These are mugs that have words or graphics of where they come from. Like, last year, I came home from work at 9 p.m. and found a mug from PARIS, FRANCE, on my front porch. No note was attached, nothing to tell me who it was from. Well, I sent out an e-mail to 500+ classmates asking someone to come forward and own up to it. It took about two weeks, but Mimi Verbois ('69) sent me an e-mail telling me that her brother David ('71) had just come back from a vacation in France. I got in touch with David and sure enough, he had gotten the mug for me (in fact, it was his wife who remembered that I collect them and told Dave to buy it for me). He brought it to my house, only, I wasn't home at the time. To make a long story short (which is too late at this point) I came home from work, yesterday, around 5PM, and there on my front porch were 2 beautifully painted, large coffee mugs! No note. No nothing to tell me who dropped them off. Not a single clue. No box, no wrapping. Just the two mugs placed on top of a school desk on my front porch next to the door. One has "GULL LAKE" (in Minnesota) painted on it and the other one says, "OZARKS, MISSOURI".  They are absolutely beautiful, but, I gotta' know who got them for me and dropped them off at my house, yesterday! No one has called. No one has e-mailed me. Not a single word. IT'S DRIVING ME CRAZY! SO, COME ON, FESS UP! WHO GAVE ME THESE COFFEE MUGS, YESTERDAY??!!  PLEASE, TELL ME! (2/19/04) UPDATE: The coffee cup mugger finally confessed and she called me at work, LAUGHING! CAROL SPENCER ('78) went on vacation this past summer and finally made it over to my house to drop off the mugs! (2/25/04)

CINDY BACON ('70) Omaha, Nebraska e-mailed me today ... "Hi Dennis, I just wanted to let you know I'll be mailing 30 bucks to ya' on Monday.  That is, if, the mailman gets to our house to pick up the mail.  Otherwise, I'll mail it on Tuesday when I have to get out and about. We've had over 31 inches of snow in two weeks.  It's a total whiteout up here.  There are some huge icicles hanging from everywhere and it looks gorgeous.  But, it's sooooo cold! Anywho, I just wanted to let you know I was sending you some funds. I love you man." --- Cindy  Cindy!! You don't have to send in any money, you've already done your share and very recently, too. You've been generous year after year, so, please, keep your money. Your intentions are so wonderful. You hang in there and don't let that snow drive ya crazy! It's always good to hear from you. If ya' get the chance and run into him, tell JOE HAZEL ('70),  hello for all of us. Love- right back at ya'! (2/7/04)

JANUARY 2004
ALICE BACHMAN ('72) San Antonio, Texas, had a birthday party, last night. It was a blast! My thanks to Alice and her sister, CAROL BACHMAN for their hospitality. The two sisters share their home and it is absolutely beautiful! Carol went all out in decorating the house for the party. They even had a kareoke machine!.  ED HOLLEY ('72), ERNIE MUNOZ ('72), KATHY VICE ('72), (who works for our classmate BILL PIPPIN's ('71)