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.
 
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:  JANUARY-JUNE 2004.

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

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 .

DECEMBER 2004
MATTHEW DELANEY ('70) Santa Barbara, California looks to be making the last donation in 2004 for the web site and what a job he did!!! Listen to this... Matt lives in Santa Barbara, Calfornia, the same town as my favorite comedian of all time, Jonathan Winters, who is often seen in town. I asked Matt to track him down and get his autograph for me. Well, Matt went to a local bookstore that Winters shops at and bought Jonathan Winters' book-- Winters' Tales. Matt told the clerk about wanting to get an autgraph and the clerk said to leave the book and he would get Jonathan Winters to autograph it. Well... HE DID!!!!! Matt sent the book, along with his THIRD check, this year, for the website. I am so AMAZED!!!! This is unfriggin real!!! I am totally blown away. Matt, thank you so much for the book, the autograph, and the donation check for the web site. You have such a giving and generous spirit and I thank you so much for this special kindness!! You NOTRE DAME dudes are the best!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!! (12/28/04)

DONNA STEPHENS ('70) Corpus Christi, Texas sent me a lovely Christmas card along with her yearly BIG check to keep the web site going. Ever since the very beginning when I started this project, Donna and her twin sister, Monna, have sent in a donation every single year. One time, they even showed up at my front door. Donna has been so wonderful over these many years and she means the world to me. Thank you so much for your wonderful generosity, Donna, and please know how much you are loved and appreciated! (12/18/04)

STEVEN MAYS ('70) Ashburn, Virginia has sent in his annual Christmas gift to keep the web site goin and once again, he has been magnanimous in his generosity. He also sent along the annual photo Christmas card of his kids (triplets 2-boys, 1-girl) are they growing growing and GROWING! Wow! They look great! Steve, thanks for your kindness in remembering me and the web site every year. You're part of a precious few that have been there every step of the way! It means so very, very much. I hope to see you next July at the reunion Shindig! (12/15/04)

JEANNE-MICHELE DAVIS ('73) Austin, Texas mailed in her Christmas present for the web site and she tells me that she had a wonderful time at her 30-year reunion, this past Octover but, she swears she would never have recognized anyone if she had passed them on the street. LOL Jeanne, thanks so much for your donation to keep us going and for your kind words in the note you sent. I hope to see ya' in Juky at the BIG party! (12/14/04)

SHEILA O'KANE ('74) Plano, Texas has played Santa Claus for the web site and has sent in the first donation for the Christmas season and what a gift it is!!  I didn't even get to sit on her lap and tell her what I wanted! Sheila, you are so wonderful and on behalf of all our classmates I thank you for your genersoity and kindness. You have helped to end this year on a high note and I will be forever grateful.You and the family look great in the photo Christmas card ya' sent along! My best wishes to you and yours this holiday season and again, thanks for the STOCKING STUFFER! WOW! (12/14/03)

NOVEMBER 2004
JAYNE LeFEVER ('72) San Antonio, Texas has made her donation to keep this web site going. I received the check in the mail, today, and I want to say THANK YOU SO MUCH for Jayne's generosity. It sure means a lot, these days! The web site is busier than ever. I sure do appreciate her helping out like she has and they way so many people have. Jayne, I hope to see ya at the reunion, next year! You're wonderful!! (11/19/04)

ROBERT CISSELL ('71) Pasadena, Texas must have been in San Antonio, today, and Santa Claus must have been with him!! As I came home from work, I drove up to my house and saw that one of my two garbage cans was missing. Either the garbage men took it or someone in the neighborhood stole it!! (It's happened twice before). Anyway, I was ticked!! I parked in the driveway, walked to the curb and mailbox to check my mail. Inside it was a plain white envelope with DENNIS written on it. No stamp. No return address. Nothing. Inside the envelope was a piece of paper and inside the piece of paper was a donation check from Robert. A BIG donation check. I couldn't believe he had just left it sitting in my mailbox!! I walked up to my front porch and on the little school desk I have next to the front door was a COFFEE MUG from the Mayor's Office in Pasadena, Texas!! Bob, I hardly know what to say but, I hope that THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH goes a long way in showing my gratitude. It has been a struggle to stay online lately and you, as well as other wonder classmates, are the ONLY reason that we have been able to. On behalf of all your fellow classmates, thanks so much, for your kind generosity in helping to keep us truckin'! On behalf of all your fellow classmates, thanks so much, for your kind generosity in helping to keep us truckin'!
I also want to thank you for the awesome coffee mug! It will make a great and very unique addition to my collection. I tried to call your home, this evening, but I guess you're still here, somewhere in San Antonio. I hope to reach you over the weekend. Again, thank you so much for your kindness. I am humbled by your actions. (11/11/04)

PHILLIP TURNER ('72) Ocoee, Florida sure delivered in the nick of time! Again, I have already had to buy extra download traffic for this web site and it's only the 4th of the month! I received a very generous donation check from Phillip, today, and it'll cover that and more! Phil, I sure do appreciate your generosity and caring enough about this effort to help keep things going. It's amazing how great people like yourself are come to the rescue when we need it the most. Again, thanks for your donation and I hope to see you next year at the reunion! (11/4/04)

OCTOBER 2004
KAREN KISLING ('72) Cantonsville, Maryland has made a donation to keep us going, here on the web site. She sends a notes along with her check... "Dear Dennis,Thanks for your hard work maintaining your web site. It brings joy to many of us! My sister, KATHY KISLING ('70) and I are looking forward to next year's Shindig!" ---Karen, thanks so very much for your donation. Comments like yours brings joy to my heart! It's people like YOU that make it all worth while. I haven't seen you or Kathy for 34+ years. It's gonna' be great next July! (10/21/04)

NELDA CARTER ('73) San Antonio, Texas mailed in a donation check for this web site, today. She wrote a little note card saying she knew it wasn't much but, she wanted to help. Nelda, don't you worry about the amount. Let me tell you, your donation is so greatly appreciated no matter how much it is. You took the time to care and send in what you could. That's far more than hundreds of other people have done. They use this web site constantly and haven't donated a single penny in the past eight years. So, please know that you have done just fine and I am so very grateful! See you at the reunion, next year. You're wonderful! (10/20/04)

MICHAEL JUSTICE ('73) Dallas, Texas sent in a donation check for the web site a couple of days ago but, my phone lines have been out for the past three days after a BIG storm blew threw here and this is the first opportunity that I have had to update this page and thank Mike for his generosity. Mike is one of the "faithful" and makes an annual donation to keep this going. Mike, thanks for all you do and for giving when the going gets tough. Wish we had more like you! All the best to you, my friend. (10/14/04)

MARK NORMAN ('71) Louisville, Kentucky (all the way from the Blue Grass state) sent in a donation check, today. So far, donations are keeping pace with the increased download traffic on this web site. Mark has been a supporter since the virtual beginning of this effort and had made a donation every year along with a few other loyal classmates. Thanks for your generosity, Mark and I hope to see you at the reunion next year! It's great to be able to count on wonderful people like YOU! (10/8/04)

MARK & VICKY (DALLAS) NANOS ('71/'72) Lee's Summit, Missouri lives in the same town as my cousins Debbie, Roy, and Laurie! I got a card from Vicky, today, along with a great donation check. Her note says... "Dear Dennis, I'm sure that you have some idea of how much you are appreciated for this task you have taken on, but here's my 2-cents worth. Thank You, Thank You! I have only recently joined the computer age, so I'm enjoying your contribution all the more for its novelty!" ---Vicky, thank you for your very kind words and your generosity with your donation check. Yes, I'll admit I know how much I am appreciated. (I'm doing my best to remain hunble! LOL) All our classmates over the years have been so kind to me and it really does mean a lot. I hope that you and Mark will be at the reunion next year! Thanks for your friendship and kindness. (10/4/04)

SHIRLEY ENGLISH ('70) Bulverde, Texas mailed a wonderful donation check for the web site and I received it, today. It is always wonderful to hear from Shirley. She has been there with her support from the very beginning. I still enjoy my Sunday morning coffee with the gorgeous Mickey Mouse coffee mug she gave me many years ago. Shirley, thanks for being so sweet and being there with your words of encouragement and support. Love ya! (10/2/04)

SEPTEMBER 2004
WAYNE & VICKI (HOWELL) POTTER ('72 &'73) Topeka, Kansas mailed in a wonderful donation check, today and a note that said, "Dennis, we hope this helps." Well, Wayne and Vicki your check helps A LOT!!! Thank you so much for your generosity. You join the ranks of the people who really care about all this and I appreciate it so much! (9/30/04)

JOHN HOLSTON ('71) Tyler, Texas mailed in a check for this web site, today. John, I sure appreciate you coming through like you have. Again, today, the page has been locked due to too much download traffic. It's the 3rd time this month. If it wasn't for wonderful like yourself, the page would have permanently shut down years ago. Thank you for your help and I hope other classmates enjoy this web site enough to help out, as well. All the best to you! (9/28/04)

JEFF CARRUTHERS ('72) San Antonio, Texas sent in his contrubution for the web site. Jeff owns a company called "Four Seasons Distributing" (1-800-580-HATS) which sells all sorts of promotional products. At the last reunion in 2000, we had custom-designed coozies made (by another company because I didn't know Jeff did this stuff), but chances are we'll have something done up for the reunion next July and buy them from Jeff's company. Thanks for your donation, Jeff and I'll be giving ya' a call in the next few months! (9/28/04)

GARY LEE ('69) Eagle River, Alaska sent in a donation all the way from the land of ice and snow. I know a couple of classmates who live in Alaska and has always hope for a donation from our 49th state and Gary comes through! He sent along a funny note with his generous check... "Dear Dennis, I don't know what motivates someone to keep up a web site like the one of John Jay happenings. That kind of person must be part crazy-- maybe even fully whacked! But wait a minute, we're talking about YOU!! Thanks for all your work!" ---Gary, thanks for the laughs! Crazy? Sure why not. Totally whacked? Yes, but what the hell! But seriously, thanks so much for the wonderful donation. It helps out a bunch to keep the flame burning bright! (9/27/04)

LYDIA "TOY" KELLY ('71) San Antonio, Texas has moved back to San Antonio and she road her Harley-Davidson to THE GUYS meeting at Pizza Hut, tonight! The first thing she did was give me a tremendous warm hug and then hand me a donation for the web site! She hasn't changed a bit since I last saw her at the 1995 reunion. She is still gorgeous and she laughed so much and had a wonderful time. It's great to have ya' back home and thanks so much for the donation! (9/24/04)

MASON WRIGHT ('70) Corpus Christi, Texas, also rode his Harley to THE GUYS meeting and he also handed me a donation for the web site. He was wearing a cast on his left foot. He broke it falling off a curb. Mason's donation was also made on behalf of his wife, LINDA LADWIG ('84), also a JJHS graduate. Thanks, Mason and Linda!! (9/24/04)

DEBBIE ASHBY ('71) Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas ('71) just found the web site a few days ago and she immediately pledged to send a donation. Well, her generous check arrived, today!! She wrote a note along with it... "Dear Dennis, I am really enjoying reading all the great info in people that I went to school with and have lost touch with. Thanks so much for all you do. I am looking forward to the reunion." ---Deb, it's great to have you back with us and thanks for your immediate support of my efforts. That means a lot to me!! Can't wait to see you next year! (9/24/04)

ALAN FREDERICK ('70) Houston, Texas ('70) drops me an e-mail every now and then and today he dropped me a great donation check for the web site! Alan, I appreciate it so very much. In fact, I checked this web site while I was at work, today before I came home and the site was BLOCKED because download traffic had already been exceeded!! Geez! I had to buy more download traffic for the third time this month!!! Your check just helped to pay for it! YOu are awesome, dude! Thanks so very much!!! (9/24/04)

CHRISTINE SCHLAEGER ('71) San Antonio, Texas ('71) proves that you CAN trust lawyers! Christine promised to send in a donation for the web site and I got her check, today! By the way, did y'all know that both of her kids are teachers at John Jay H.S.!!! AND her son, John Campbell Jr. is the HEAD FOOTBALL COACH!! Go Mustangs!! Thanks for the donation, Chris, you're one of the best!! (9/24/04)

WILLIAM "BILL" GAINES ('76) Raleigh, North Carolina mailed in a donation check that blew my mind! How great was his donation? Well, I had to go to the doctor, today, because of my medications for diabetes, heart, and blood pressure. (I have to have blood drawn every three days.) While I was there, my blood  pressure was 194/112. When I got home, I received Bill's check for the web site, in the mail. I can only thank God that I had no way to measure my blood pressure when I saw the check! I would have had a heart attack!!! Bill, thanks so much for your generosity and for coming through in the special time for this project. Because of YOU and those wonderful people listed below, in this section, we'll keep the flame burning brightly. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. (9/22/04)

DEAN & SANDY (WOODS) DUNN ('69/'70) North Richland Hills, Texas are two remarkable people. Right now, they are busy involved in a fund raising effort for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and will soon participate in a special "Walk for Ryan," in Boston, for their 3-year old grandson, who has diabetes. His gets his little fingers pricked up to 5-times a day to have his blood checked and he receives insulin shots, as well. Dean and Sandy urge people to help support the JDRF with financial donations and yet, they still make a donation to this web site. I am humbled by their charity and I am so very grateful to them for their support over these many years. Sandy promises to see me at the reunion, next year. Can't wait to HUG you, girl!! (and you, too, Dean!) Thank you! (9/22/04)

CARL JENSEN ('70) Newport News, Virginia has sent in a wonderful donation check and I do mean WONDERFUL!  Carl-- you have been there every single time when the web site needs help the most and every time you go BEYOND what I can ever hope for from anyone! Thank you for all that you have done and for leading the way. I really appreciate that, my friend. Your support helps to keep me and this project going! In a side note... Carl tells me that his mom is doing better following her cancer surgery, here in San Antonio. We didn't get to link up when he was here for that but, we will soon, I'm sure.  (9/20/04)

GLENN BURCHARD ('69) Austin, Texas mailed in a great donation check for the web site along with a note that shows he's already "chomping at the bit" for the reunion. He says he knows it's going to be a BLAST! Glenn.. you better believe it will! Thanks for your donation and for all your support and enthusiasm about the reunion!! (9/20/04)

MARY "MOLLY" DELANEY ('71) Santa Monica, California has sent in the first donation of the month, so far, and it comes at a critical time. Molly thanks for being there when we need help the most!!  Traffic on this web site has quadrupled!! The page has already been locked TWICE this month and people could not view it because all download traffic had been used up by the 7th of the month! Molly, I really appreciate your donation to keep the light burning brightly!! (9/10/04)

AUGUST 2004
RALPH GALAVIZ ('69) San Antonio, Texas attended his first meeting with THE GUYS at Pizza Hut and had a blast! He made two donations, tonight! The first was a donation was a check to keep this web site going and I thank him for his generosity. His second donation was very unique. Ralph has been a dentist for 28 years and tonight he brought toothbrushes and toothpaste for all THE GUYS!! We went crazy over them! Heck, I got six (6) of them, myself!! Thanks, Ralph!! (8/27/04)

TARYN HOUGH ('72) Choctaw, Oklahoma sent in a wonderful donation for the web site and a sweet card, as well... "Dear Dennis, Greetings! It's been too long since I've had a chance to catch up on the web site. Some news wonderful... and some very sad. I send you well wishes and hugs from Oklahoma. I will call you when we come down next month. Love ya'" --- Taryn, it is always so wonderful to hear from you. Thank you for your donation for the web site. It comes at a very important time. I hope we can link up when ya come down, next month! I love ya' tooz!" (8/27/04)

BILL MIZELL ('70) Boerne, Texas is one of "THE GUYS" that group of us that has been meeting on the last Friday of the month every month for the past 17 years at Pizza Hut at Marbach & Loop 410. At our monthly meeting this past Friday, Bill made a fantastic donation to this web site and I sure appreciate it. He has always been there for the site and reunion efforts. He would always buy rolls of postage stamps when we needed to mail out newsletters in the old days. So, my thanks to Bill for his generosity in helping to keep the flaming burning and the web site going strong! (8/1/04)

THE WILD' TANGS ('71) not to be outdone by me, her brother, my sister LINDA DUPRIEST ('71) has started he own little groups of former classmates called the "Wild 'Tangs." They meet like every four or five months and they're all girls! This past Saturday night, they met at Grady's Bar-B-Q on Bandera Road. They took up a collection among themselves and raised $120 for this web site. Is that awesome or what!!! My thanks to the following beautiful ladies for their generosity: BRENDA DUGGER ('71), DEBBIE DeBERGH ('71), KAREN WALLIS ('71), BARBARA FRIEDMAN ('71), LAURA HENDERSON ('71) and BEVERLEE BRIGHAM ('71). Thank you ladies! I hope you'll invite me to one of your meeting. That would be awesome!! (8/1/04)

Brenda Dugger, Debbie DeBergh, Beverlee Brigham, Sarah Escobedo, Karen Wallis, Linda DuPriest some of the "Wild 'Tangs" all from the "Class of '71"
Debbie DeBergh, Beverlee Brigham, Sarah Escobedo, Laura Henderson, Brenda Dugger, Barbara Friedman- more of the beautiful "Wild 'Tangs" of 1971.

JULY 2004
PAUL "RANDY" BEATY ('70) Killeen, Texas has sent in a super generous donation for the web site and he has a new job, doing an old job and has learned just how small this word can really be. He writ "Dennis, how's everything going? Things here in Killeen have been going very well. As you know, in my career I did weather forecasting for the Air Force. When I retired, I took a temporary forecasting position as a civilian. The job was supposed to last a couple of years. Well, last November, the person that had the permanent position took early retirement so, I applied for it and I got it! So, I guess I'll be staying here in Killeen for a while longer. My daughter, Amber, is entering her last semester at Tarleton State University. Finally, the end is in sight. She met a young man at college that you might know. His name is Coy Miller and he's from Somerset. His mom. LaVonda works for the Somerset school district. Coy mentioned the town, one day, and sometime later, it dawned on me that you worked for that school district, too. Small world! Here's a donation for the web site. You've done an excellent job in building and maintaining it. It's very informative. Keep up the good work, Dennis. Take care!"... ---It IS a small world, Randy! LaVonda and I have worked together for seven years now and I have met Coy. He's a great person and a gentleman. He'll make a great son-in-law!!  It's great to hear that you're career is going well. I hope you get the chance to come down and visit. Thanks so much for your very generous donation. It comes at a very important time. And thanks for your 30+ years of friendship! You're the best! (7/24/04)

CINDY BACON ('70) Omaha, Nebraska has already sent in a web site donation earlier this year but, she's used the occasion of my birthday to send another one! She writes... "Hi, Dennis! Happy Belated Birthday! As George Carlin once said, "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but, by the moments that take our breath away." You are breathtaking in all that you do. Thanks for adding so much to my life." --- Wow! Cindy, that is one of the nicest and sweetest things anyone has ever said to me. Thank you so much for your donation and your very kind words. You are truly one-of-a-kind! Hope to see you at next year's reunion. (7/13/04)

BRENDA GIBBS ('73) Castroville, Texas has sent in the first donation for July. She sent in a brief note with her check... "Hi, Dennis! I just wanted to send a little something to help you out. After all, I do key in to your web site every now and then to see who's where and said what! If you hear from KENNETH ELKINS ('70) and his wife VICKIE GREEN ('70) tell them that "Momma Googie's" still out there and would love to hear from them. Thanks, Dennis." --- Brenda, I say THANK YOU for your kind donation for the wen site. I really appreciate that. As for Ken and Vickie, it's been like two years since I heard from them. They would write to me at least once a year for the past 10 years and all of a sudden they stopped. I don't know if they moved or what. If anyone knows where they are or has a contact number for me, please let me know. (7/10/04)

PLEASE SIGN THE GUEST BOOK !
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

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
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
SU GARNETT ('76) Highland Lakes, New Jersey
GLYNN QUINN  ('69) Castroville, Texas
SANDY (DILTS) QUINN ('73) Castroville, Texas
KEVIN WILLIS ('72) San Antonio, Texas
STEVE SMITH ('69) San Antonio, Texas
DEBBIE (DeBERGH) SMITH ('71) San Antonio, Texas
ANTHONY KIEBLER ('75) Universal City, Texas
TARYN HOUGH ('72) Choctaw, Oklahoma
SKIP O'BRIEN ('73) Somerset, Texas
KIM (WYATT) O'BRIEN ('71) Somerset, Texas
ROBERT LEMOINE ('71) Keller, Texas
KENNETH WHITTON ('72) Castroville, Texas
BARRIE GILLESPIE ('71) Austin, Texas
CHARLES KOSTMAYER ('70) Mobile, Alabama
STEPHEN GAINES ('71) Moore, Oklahoma
DENNIS GAINES ('72) Kerrville, Texas
WILLIAM GAINES ('76) Raleigh, North Carolina
ROBERT HECKARD ('79) San Antonio, Texas
ALVIN BRATZ ('73) San Antonio, Texas
CHARLES BOOKER ('70) Ft. Smith, Arkansas
ROBERT "BOB" FRAZIER ('72) Cairo, Eygpt
TOMMY McDUFF ('70) Louisiana
PATTY VENEGAS ('70) San Antonio, Texas
DONNA VENEGAS ('71) San Antonio, Texas
ANNETTE VENEGAS ('78) San Antonio, Texas
ROBERTA HOLLIN ('71) Spring Branch, Texas
MICHAEL WILLIAMS ('72) Biloxi, Mississippi
 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 ('79) San Antonio, Texas
CINDY RADDATZ ('75) Tomball, 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
JOE BRESNOK ('74) Lytle, Texas
DEANNA PACK ('69) Manchester, Connecticut
EVAN RALPH ('72) San Angelo, Texas
SANDRA GRIFFIN ('71) San Antonio Texas
KAREN WALLIS ('71) San Antonio, Texas
CAROLYN SPARKS ('70) San Antonio, Texas
URBAN URBANO ('70) San Antonio, Texas
RUTH MRHA ('72) Houston, Texas
MIKE GRINFIELD ('71) San Antonio, Texas
LINDA ANDERSON ('70) San Antonio, Texas
CARLA WHITTON ('70) San Antonio, Texas
BARBARA GARRISH ('75) San Antonio, Texas
DAVID COOK ('74) Sanderson, Texas
KENNETH SOFFES ('70) Houston, Texas
JOE MARTINEZ ('71) San Antonio, Texas
RAY HIGGINS ('72) San Antonio, Texas
DEBBIE ASHBY ('71) Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas
MICHAEL HAGY ('77) Location unknown
HOLLY COOK ('74)  San Antonio, Texas
TERRY YATES ('69) Cedar Park, Texas
MR. GAYLAN DuBOSE (Teacher) Austin, Texas
RITA SMITH ('69) Fredericksburg, Texas
MICKEY MAHLER ('70) Salt Lake City, Utah
JILL TEMPLE ('72) San Antonio, Texas
MARGARET JENSEN ('72) San Antonio, Texas
SAM SARRAZIN ('70) Bulverde, Texas
JOE RUIZ ('71) San Antonio, Texas
JOEL WOODS ('73) Location Unknown

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) -FOUND!, MELANIE MILLER ('72), DRU TREVINO ('72),  TIM TANT ('69), DON ELDER ('70), DON HURLOCK ('71), LARRY & PATTY (MILWARD) YOUNG ('69/'70), DALE MILWARD ('70), SHELLEY URBACH ('73), KIMBERLY NUCKOLLS ('72), TOMMY McDUFF ('70) -FOUND!, LaVERNE SHIPMAN ('70), KATHY O'DAY ('70), CLEVE HUGHES ('69),  ARCHIE RHINES ('71, CORA BRANDT ('71), JULIA "JILL" TEMPLE ('72) -FOUND!, STEVE BEAVERS ('72), MICKEY MAHLER ('70) -FOUND!

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

Mr. Arthur Shupp, age 78, father of our classmates: Melody ('70), Elizabeth "Betsy" ('72), Laura ('74), Jenny ('74), Nancy ('76), Robin ('77), Tim ('79) and Holly ('82) passed away on Monday, December 20, 2005 after a bout with cancer. Mr. Shupp was a former U.S. Marine and had fought at the battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. On behalf of all our classmates, I extend our love, sincere best wishes and prayers to the Shupp family in their time of sorrow and loss. Viewing and Visitation will be held on Wednesday evening, December 22nd, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Mission Park South Funeral Chapels, located at 1700 S.E. Military Drive. Phone: 210-924-4242. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, December 23rd, at 3:00 p.m., from the Mission Park South Funeral Chapels and will be buried at that cemetery. A memorial service and gathering will be held at Marbach Christian Church, 8023 Marbach Road at 6:00 p.m., Thursday evening, December 23rd. Friends of the family are encouraged and invited to attend. Refreshments will be served. Betsy Shupp's e-mail is: ejohn2753@aol.com and cell phone ais (972) 603-5608. (12/21/04)

Mrs. Loraine Jensen, the mother of classmates CARL JENSEN ('70) and Margaret Jensen ('72) died, today December 12, 2004, here in San Antonio after a lengthy battle with cancer. When more details are available, I will post them on the web site under "Classmate News." On behalf of all classmates, I send our prayers and sympathies to the Jensen families in their time of sorrow. I hope to be able to visit with Carl when he gets here in San Antonio, this week. (12/12/04) UPDATE: Carl called me to let me know the funeral arrangements for his mom, who passed away yesterday, December 12th. THE VISITATION & VIEWING: The family will be at the Castleridge Funeral Home at 8008 Military Drive West from 6-9p.m.tomorrow night, Tuesday, December 14th . (Just get on Military Drive at Marbach and head towards Loop 410 / Hwy. 151. It will be on the right-hand side of the road about two miles down. The phone number is: 645-6000) FUNERAL SERVICES: Services will be held from the Lackland Baptist Church,  2718 Frontier (in our old neighborhood), on Wednesday, December 15th starting at 9:15 a.m. Their phone number is 674-2702. She will be laid to rest at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.  All classmates and friends of Carl and the Jensen family are invited to attend either function. Carl's home mailing address if you want to send a card or letter is: 826 Melrose Terrace, Newport News, VA 23608 (12/13/04)


 RANDALL "RANDY" OLSEN ('71) of O'Fallon, Illinois died on Saturday, December 11, 2004 of heart and lung failure following surgery. He has been suffering from diabetes and heart problems for many years. Our prayers and sympathies to the Olsen families. He is survived by his wife Sue and his children. Their mailing address is: Sue Olsen, 805 Monterey Street, O'Fallon, Illinois 62269

His brother RICHARD OLSEN ('70) can be reached by clicking his name for the e-mail link. He called me Sunday night (12/12/04). He had been in London, Engalnd when he got word that his brother had died. He sends his regards to all classmates and thanks everyone for their prayers and kind thoughts for Randy and the family.   (12/11/04)

THOUGHTS OF RANDY FROM CLASSMATES...
RANDY PEARSON ('71) Pittsburgh, Pennsulvania... "Dennis, I was very saddened today to read the news of Randy Olsen. When my family had to move from Texas after my junior year , Randy was one my friends at Jay I missed the most. Through your site I was able to reconnect with Randy after 30 some years. We were able to exchange letters and emails over the last few years. I will always recall the day we met. Without knowing each other we were sitting right by each other the first day of classes in 8th grade at Sam Rayburn. We both thought we heard our name called and raised our hands, and began laughing at the coincidence of this. We became instant friends. How could you not- Randy was such a class act. We enjoyed many good times together on the JV baseball team, and going to football and basketball games. I will never forget our hilarious night in search of the donkey lady in Jimmy Proctor's VW bug. When I first was able to contact Randy after so many years I knew of his health problems from the site. I will tell you he showed great dignity and strength. He never complained, nor felt sorry for himself in any of our correspondence. I drew inspiration from him for sure. I would drive him home from baseball practice often back in school. We would listen to 8-tracks on the way. One we both would enjoy and sing very badly to was Roy Orbison. A couple of years ago I sent him a CD of Roy's that he really enjoyed getting. For me tonight I will hoist one for Randy and listen to Roy with sadness in my heart. But I know a smile will cross my face while remembering him and how it was a honor to have been a friend to such a good man. R.I.P. my friend." (12/13/04)
Mrs. Imogene Rogstad, the mother of our classmates, ALAN FREDERICK ('70) of Houston, Texas and DAVID FREDERICK ('73) of La Jolla, California died on Tuesday, August 17th, due to heart failure. Our prayers, sympathies and love to Alan, David and their families in this time of sorrow. (8/19/04)


Our classmate, GAIL CLARK ('70) died of ovarian cancer a little over a year ago. I only just received this most saddening information, tonight, from CAROLYN SPARKS ('70). Gail was a wonderful lady and so full of life. I last saw her at a reunion about 15 years ago. We extend our love and best wishes to Gail's family, her mom, her brother and sister. (8/19/04)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US!

JULY 7th
Happy Birthday to Ringo and me.
Happy Birthday to Ringo and Me.
Happy Birthday Ringo and Dennis.
Happy Birthday to Us!

Ringo Starr (Richard Starkey)
turns 64 and I turn 52 on the
very same day, Wednesday,
July 7th!

A great birthday present would be to send in a donation to keep this web site going. A little goes a long way!
My thanks to all my classmates who e-mail me with warm birthday wishes. That means a lot to me and to Ringo!
I GOT MUGGED ON JULY 4th!
I went to my sister, Linda's house for July 4th dinner and when I got home there was a BIG coffee mug on the little school desk that I have on the front porch. It was a SAN ANTONIO mug! Believe it or not, I didn't have a San Antonio mug. This one has the same of San Antonio on it along with three red peppers. It's beautiful. Anyway, I have no idea who gave this to me! There was a note inside the mug which says... "Bet you don't have one of these!! We were together and thought we'd stop and visit. Sorry, we miss you! Guess who? The Four Amigos (Minus 1)." --- Well, I don't know who it is but, only you classmates know that I collect location coffee mugs, So, someone 'fess up! It's driving me crazy! -Dennis (7/5/04)

UPDATE 7/21/04: Today, I got an e-mail from JANIS REYNOLDS ('69) in Austin, Texas and she admitted to me that she and three other classmates: DEBBY VAN PELT ('69), VANESSA ROBBINS ('69) and DEANNA PACK ('69) had their own mini-reunion and came over to my house to surprise me! My God! I missed the chance to be with four of the most beautiful ladies in the world! How wonderful to know y'all thought enough of me to stop by and see me. That means a lot! All of y'all were in the Class of '69, right? Janis... do me a favor. Write me up a little something about how the four of your got together and what ya did that day, so I can post it under classmate news on my web site. This is just wonderful! If ya have a pic of the four of you together that ya can send, I'll post it, too! Thanks you so very very much. You girls are so SUPER and I'll see ya at  SHINDIG V !! Love, Dennis

Here's a pic of three of us: Janis, Debby and Vanessa.  Deanna wasn't able to be with us this time, but we expect to see her next year! The four of us have been in touch over the years, and after we heard the news of Clair's passing (she was so beautiful...I don't know anyone who wasn't sorry to hear of her death), we decided that there was no use putting it off anymore.  We are all busy with our lives, but that would always be true.  If not now, when?  So we decided to go for it!  We got together at my house in Austin, and we spent three wonderful days just catching up, dancing, laughing, remembering, sharing.  Oh, and we came by your house. Maybe we'll see you at the reunion next year! Dennis, Thanks for all you do to keep the flame... Janis

GLENN BURCHARD ('69) Austin, Texas has something to say about the picture (above) of Janis, Debby, and Vanessa. "Dennis, I was just visiting, here on the site, and saw this picture of Debby, Janice, and Vanessa.  Am I nuts, or isn't that the correct order from left to right.  I know it's been a long time, but as I look at the picture, I've just got to believe that's Debby on the left and Janice is in the middle.  Please tell me I'm not losing it--at least not in this case!  I can't say I'm 100% on the picture--but---I did date Debby for awhile and I'd swear that's her on the left but, you know what 30+ years will do to ya!" ---Glenn, I don't know what to tell you. This is the way that Janis sent the photo to me along with the caption exactly the way it is. Tell ya' what, let's ask the girls, themselves! Hey, Janis, Debby or Vanessa, who is who in the photo??? (Deanna Pack, you can e-mail me too, if ya want to tell me!) Save Glenn's sanity! E-mail me!! (7/28/04)
GET A LOAD OF THIS!!!!! 1st ANNUAL JOHN JAY
"SPOTLIGHTERS" TALENT SHOW - 1967

This is a photo from the archives of Ralph Galaviz ('69). It's the 1st Annual John Jay H.S. talent show sponsored by the drama club, "The Spotlighters." I, Dennis DuPriest ('70), was the host for all three years at Jay and it was always an honor. That's me to the far right with the microphone. (Was I a cute dude or what!! And damn skinny, too!) Also in the photo, at the far right is half of Urban Urbano ('70), then an unknown dude. In the cowboy hat is Jay Urbano ('72), next is Mike Mead ('71). (Urban, the unknown dude, Jay and Mike Mead performed as the band "Colonel Tyke's Traveling Medicine Show and Musical Band," later changed to "Blind Light.") The girl is Carol West ('71), who performed the Charleston. The first guy in the serape outfit is David Robinson ('69), then Ralph Galaviz ('69), Vance Verbeck ('69), Jimmy Barraza ('71) [you can barely see the top of his head in the back], Kenny Sundberg ('70), Kevin O'Brien ('71) in glasses in the back, then, John Dany ('69). They all won first place as the "Baja Maraca Botchers" patterning themselves after the Herb Alpert and Tijuana Brass. They were all members of the Mighty Mustangs Band. This photo freezes a moment in time that I miss so very very much, so long, long, long ago. My thanks to Ralph for making this photo available and to Kenny Sundberg ('70) and his sister Jamie Sundberg ('71) for helping to identify people. It means a lot! (8/28/04)
MUSTANG FOOTBALL 2004
Head Coach John Campbell Jr., the son of John Campbell ('69) and Christine Schlaeger ('71)
Game 1: John Jay Mustangs: 27  Kerrville Tivy Antlers: 23
Game 2: John Jay Mustangs: 14  East Central Hornets: 10
Game 3: John Jay Mustangs: 15  Ronald Reagan Rattlers: 35
Game 4: John Jay Mustangs: 19  Del Rio Rams: 7 **
Game 5: John Jay Mustangs: 13  Thomas Clark Cougars: 31 **
Game 6: John Jay Mustangs:   0  Earl Warren Warriors: 27 **
(My niece, my sister Linda's daughter, Katie Rose Padron is the Senior Class President at Warren High School)
Game 7: John Jay Mustangs: 27  William Taft Raiders: 21 **
Game 8: John Jay Mustangs: 35  John Marshall Rams: 38 **
Game 9: John Jay Mustangs: 56  Oliver Holmes Huskies 13 **
Game 10: John Jay Mustangs: 22  Sandra O'Connor Panthers 43 **
[Danny Padron ('69) is Head Coach at O'Connor High School which has gone undefeated in district and is headed into the playoffs. Good luck, Danny!]
** District Games
"SHINDIG V"
THE REUNION PARTY JULY 2005
CLICK ON "SHINDIG V" LINK ABOVE TO GO TO A SPECIAL REUNION INFORMATION PAGE.
ALL DETAILS ON THE REUNION WILL BE POSTED ON THAT PAGE ONLY. PLEASE "BOOKMARK"
IT OR ADD TO YOUR "FAVORITES" TO GO DIRECTLY TO THAT PAGE EACH TIME YOU WANT.
HAPPY 53rd WEDDING ANNIVERSARY TO MY MOM & DAD, THERESE & GILBERT DUPRIEST ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2004.

October 20, 1951
(If ya' wanna send a congratulatory e-mail: My Folks)
CURRENT CLASSMATE NEWS
DECEMBER 2004
MATTHEW DELANEY ('70) Santa Barbara, California looks to be making the last donation in 2004 for the web site and what a job he did!!! Listen to this... Matt lives in Santa Barbara, Calfornia, the same town as my favorite comedian of all time, Jonathan Winters, who is often seen in town. I asked Matt to track him down and get his autograph for me. Well, Matt went to a local bookstore that Winters shops at and bought Jonathan Winters' book-- Winters' Tales. Matt told the clerk about wanting to get an autgraph and the clerk said to leave the book and he would get Jonathan Winters to autograph it. Well... HE DID!!!!! Matt sent the book, along with his THIRD check, this year, for the website. I am so AMAZED!!!! This is unfriggin real!!! I am totally blown away. Matt, thank you so much for the book, the autograph, and the donation check for the web site. You have such a giving and generous spirit and I thank you so much for this special kindness!! You NOTRE DAME dudes are the best!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!! (12/28/04)

JOEL WOODS ('73) Location Unknown, has sent me an e-mail... "Hi Dennis, my name is Joel and Im trying to find a web site with the yearbook for John jay High in 1973. I was wondering is you could help me locate it on the net. I have so many friends that graduated in 73 but i lost contact with them when I joined the service. Thanks for any help you may be able to give." --- Joel, sorry but, I don't have any information on the Class of 1973 and I don't post their yearbook photos on my web site. I am posting your e-mail on the web site and perhaps someone can get in touch with you. You're more than welcome to join us for the BIG reunion in July 2005, as I am sure many of your classmates will. Thanks for getting in touch. (12/25/04)

DENNIS DUPRIEST ('70) San Antonio, Texas... Hey, that's me! Just a few notes. First, I attended the funeral visitation services for the Mrs. Lorraine Jensen, the mother of our classmates CARL JENSEN and ('70), MARGARET JENSEN ('72) and DAVID JENSEN ('75) . While I was there, I got to see other classmates who stopped by SAM SARRAZIN ('70), DONNA VENEGAS ('71) and ANNETTE VENEGAS ('78). They are all looking great and send their regards to everyone. (Their e-mail addresses are now listed on the e-mail links page or just click their names above.) Carl, Margaret and David are all doing fine, despite the sudden passing of their mom who seemed to be doing so well in recovery from cancer surgery. In talking to Margaret, she told me that JILL TEMPLE ('72) had been helping her with fixing up her mother's home and that Jill was watching the house for her that evening. I had lost track of Jill about a year ago and gave her a call, when I got home for the evening. She's earned her teacher's degree and is teaching in New Braunfels. Secondly, I want to thank all you wonderful people that have been sending me beautiful Christmas cards. That means a lot. Many of you have also included a check to keep this web site going and I appreciate that as well. It is my sincere wish that your holidays are the best ever! Be safe. My love to everyone. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! See you in July for SHINDIG V. (12/15/04)
NOVEMBER 2004
MATT DELANEY ('70) Santa Barbara, California was in town Thanksgiving week to visit with family. In fact, his entire family is getting together for the first time in a few years. His dad is still recovering from hip replacement surgery. Matt is doing fine and he and I got together tonight for an early afternoon dinner at Jim's Coffee Shop (at Marbach and Loop 410). We had a good two-hour visit over cheese soup and a club sandwich. We discussed everything from the latest Beatles album ro the presidential election. It's always great to "shoot the breeze" with Matt. (11/21/04)

CHARLES KOSTMAYER ('70) Mobile, Alabama is gonna be a daddy, again! His wife, Wen is expecting their 2nd child in July. Hey, maybe they can make it to the reunion and the baby can be born in San Antonio. Chuck writes... "Dennis,  now, two months after the hurricane and two chain saws later, we're still cleaning up hurricane debri and repairing stuff. We tried hiring a couple of crews but, they do more damage than good. Labor is in short supply and comes at a premium, at times like these. Life is returning to normal, slowly but surely. Remember us in your prayers! Wonder if we shoud name the baby Ivan after the hurricane? ---Chuck, if it's a boy, consider naming him, JOHN JAY KOSTMAYER. How does that sound? OR how about "Dennis" for a middle name? Juss wondering. My best to you and your wife for a beautiful and healthy baby! (11/19/04)

CHARLES BOOKER ('70) Fort Smith, Arkansas enjoyed hearing about the musical tribute to our former band director, the late Mr. Dan Schreiber. He sent me an e-mail... "Dear Dennis, I read about the commission for Dan Schreiber and wanted to let you know that if our Mustang group ever wanted to commission a piece in Dan's honor, I would be pleased to write it (for free). If you are interested in hearing other band pieces I have composed, please visit my website at www.charlesbooker.com . Perhaps, we could get Chuck Young, the present band director to perform it with the Mustang band. Dan Schreiber meant a lot to me and inspired me to have a career in music. It is because of his encouragement that I am doing what I do today - Chair of the Music Department and Director of a College Band."

 Charles is a conductor and composer, and former U.S. Army Bandmaster, received his degrees from the University of the State of New York, the University of Texas at San Antonio, and his teacher certification in secondary music from Southwest Texas State University. His compositions are published by Alfred, Bravo Music, Kendor, and Southern Music Company. Chuck's career in the U.S. Army included service as an arranger for the Army Field Band, performer and conductor of Army Bands in Louisiana, Germany, New York City, and director of the noted Jazz Ambassadors in Washington, D.C.
In 1999, he was appointed Director of Band Activities at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith, and in 2003, in addition to his conducting position, he was appointed Chair of the Music Department at Uof A Fort Smith. Chuck is currently president of the Arkansas Chapter of College Band Directors National Association, past president of the Arkansas Chapter of the International Association of Jazz Educators, and a member of both the Arkansas and Texas Bandmaster Associations. He is also a member of the Arkansas Chapter of Phi Beta Mu, the International School Bandmaster Fraternity, and Pi Kappa Lambda. Charles is married to his wife of 33 years Claudette [DeRocher] of San Antonio, Texas. They have three children: Captain Erik Booker, U.S. Army, currently serving in Iraq, MU3 Adam Booker, U.S. Navy Band of New Orleans, and Colleen Booker, Instructor at Northern Arizona University. Mr. Booker and Claudette have five grandsons, Alex, Brennan, Colton, Devin, and Ronald. ---Chuck, I have been to your web site and it is awesome. I encourage all our classmates to check it out for themselves, Sure hope you can make it to the reunion, next year! Great career, dude! (11/12/04)

ROBERT "BOB" FRAZIER ('72) Cairo, Egypt, yes, CAIRO, EGYPT, has sent me an e-mail..."Dennis, I am currently assigned in Cairo, Egypt and will be here for the next two years. My hotmail address (hoss315@hotmail.com ) is the one for the MSN Messenger and for everyone and anyone who wants to chat during their time on line if I am there.  Sorry about the delay in getting in touch with you and all but, I have been trying to get things going here, settled in and working my way through this tour.  Well, have a good day and chat with you later on.  I will be at the reunion and I will send my check sometime after the first part of the year. Take care and keep me up to date on things." --Bob, I don't know what you're doing over there but, whatever it is, PLEASE BE CAREFUL. And as for next year, YES, we WILL see you at the reunion, my friend. God bless you. (11/11/04)
 
OCTOBER 2004
I'VE BEEN MUGGED AND SHOT!
RANDY PEARSON ('71) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania MUGGED me with a beautiful coffee mug from Pittsburgh and then he SHOT me with a commemorative shot glass from there, too! What a surprise. I had boasted the the Cowboys were gonna wipe the field with the Steelers this year and what happens? Pittsburgh kicks Dallas booty!! Damn! Guess Randy knew how bad I felt losing the game so, he took pity on me and sent the mug and shot glass. LOL Randy, thanks for the gifts. They are wonderful and a great surprise. I'll have my first cup of coffee in the mug with Sunday morning breakfast. Maybe, I'll have my first shot of Wild Turkey watching the Red Sox and Cardinals, tonight! Yeeee haaaa!! Hope things still work out and that you can make the reunion in July 2005. It would be great to see you and the family. All the best to you, my friend! (10/22/04)
Randy wrote back: "Dennis, thank the Steelers for winning. That's what got you the mug and shot glass! LOL  Just a little something for all your efforts, brother. We've got the Pittsburgh Blues Festival weekend of reunion so, I will be a no show. Got to tell you, after having had to move from San Antonio, after my junior year, I would have never thought that I would ever know what happened to all the folks at Jay. But your efforts made that possible. So, I am content with filling in some gaps thanks to you man. Being a big music fan (Stevie Ray is still the man R.I.P.) I have told the wife that, someday, I want to do a weekend in Austin. If I ever do. I will try to hook up with you to share a couple (I always say a few that lead to more) shots of Tequila. But if you ever get up this way dude I would hook you up with a good time in the Burg! - a shot & beer town and damn proud of it. Peace." ---Randy, you're on! (10/24/04)
SEPTEMBER 2004
LEONARD SAAVEDRA ('70) Mesa, Arizona is in town, today, and then headed back to Arizona Sunday morning. One of his nephews is getting married, here I haven't heard from him in about two years and he took time to call me, this morning. He tells me he's a first time grandfather of a beautiful girl and and the;rs a grandson on the way! Cool dude. Leonard forgot to send me his new e-mail address so, he's been out of touch. All you folks gotta remember to send me you changed e-mail addressses! I'm too old to track people down anymore!! LOL Leonard promises to stay in better touch for now on and to stop by for a visit on his next trip, here. (9/24/04)
 
HOLLY COOK ('74) San Antonio, Texas had made it back to the Mustang Corrall, here at the web site and she sent me an e-mail... "Dear Dennis, All I can remember is hearing your name all the time and seing articles about you in the JJHS school newspaper, The Statesman. I just paid tuition for college so, I'll try to send you a donation when my loan check gets here. By the way, nice architecture on the house. I happen to be studying architecture at San Antonio College - or is that place still called San Pedro High School? Hey - that Beatles song ("In My Life" that plays in the background here, on your web site) is probably one of their best hits and always will be. How about the Beach Boys song  "In My Room"? Be diligent, be safe - pray for peace." ---Holly, good to hear from you. What house are you talking about?? Wait! Do you mean the new renovations of John Jay H.S.??? Yeah, I like that Beach Boys song, as well. Hope you'll make plans to come to the reunion in July 2005. (9/25/04) UPDATE: The house that Holly was talking about is the "bed & breakfast" house that classmate KATHY KEISOR ('72) and her husband have in Hawaii. I featured photos of it a year ago, here on the web site and it's now in the "ARCHIVE" section. The house is absolutely gorgeous, like Holly says.

MONNA STEPHENS ('70) Grapevine, Texas has been wondering why she hasn't gotten any of my e-mails for a long, long time, but her twin sister, DONNA STEPHENS ('70) has. Well, it seems I've been sending the e-mails to Monna's old (still working) account but, she never checks it! We did connect, today, and she writes... "Dennis, Now I know why Donna receives your e-mails and I don't.  I thought you were playing favorites. LOL My old email address should still find its' way to me... but apparently our IT Group has put up some road-blocks on my old address so, I appreciate the heads-up. In any event, I can be reached either here at work or at my home. In any event, I hope all is well with you. Life is treating me well. I've always been blessed with a great family and friends. And my own family just keeps expanding. My son Anthony and his wife, Diana, are expecting their third child in March (they want and plan on 4). My daughter and her husband, after 10-years of marriage, are expecting their first child in mid-May. My job at Verizon is challenging and ever-changing. It's as close to being a lawyer, without a law degree, that I could ever expect to have. I get to do all the "grunt" work that the attorneys don't (and can't) do but, I love it. My husband, Marc, is trying part-time retirement. It suits us both just fine...since we need a "wife" to do all the things we never have time to do. Drop me a note sometime and get me up to speed on what's happening in your world."  ---Monna, it's great to touch base with you and I'm glad we cleared up the e-mail thing. How could I ever play "favorites" between you and your twin sister? After 37 years of knowing the two of you (and having kissed you both) I STILL can't tell the difference! Can't wait to see you in July 2005!! (9/23/04)

DONNA STEPHENS ('70) Corpus Christi, Texas helped me to track down her twin sister, Monna, when the e-mail that I sent to her kept coming back. With that all cleared up, she sent me a note... "Hey, Dennis! Monna and I have both been gone, for a while, to our parents home in Missouri. We were visiting and checking on our younger sister, Kristi Ann. She is five years younger than us. She was recently diagnosed with CLL or chronic leukemia. Anyway, our thoughts and energy have been with her. Damn cancer. Everytime I talk to anyone, someone ELSE has been diagnosed. It's so you hate to answer the phone! ha In any event, Monna and I are fine and living a very busy life. Monna will pass me up in the spring as having the MOST grandchildren. Her third is due in March. My son has called it quits with two. And that's just fine with me. HA HA I really appreciate your web site and all the updates. I'm just AMAZED at the football success at Jay, but guess maybe after 34 years it's ABOUT time! Talk to you soon, Love ya." --- Donna, thanks for helping me get Monna's e-mail address fixed. Please know that I and all your fellow classmates send our prayers for your sister, Kristi Ann. If there's anything we can do, just call upon the Mustangs! Please stay in touch. (9/23/04)

DEBBIE ASHBY ('71) Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas has returned to the "Mustang Corral" after many years. She signed my web site guestbook and writes... "Dear Dennis, BARBARA FRIEDMAN ('71), a member of "Wild Tangs" and a much loved friend from 1971, has recently gotten in touch with me and told me about your website and the upcoming reunion. I was so excited to find all the great information you have on your site about people from our past. I've only just begun reading some of the recent news and I definitely plan on reading the archives as time permits. You are doing a wonderful service. I will put a donation in the mail, today, to support the site. Thanks so much for all you do! (From one of the Original Bad Girls at the Ice House)" ---Debbie, it's great to have you back with us! It amazes me how people that view my web site for the first time, seem to immediately pledge money to help keep it going, like you have done. I have people that have accessed the web site for over 8 years and they haven't sent a single penny! You are amazing!! Thank you for the pledge. Stay in touch and I can't wait to see ya' at the reunion! (9/23/04)

CHARLES KOSTMAYER ('70) Mobile, Alabama has survived Hurricane Ivan! He sent me this e-mail... "Hello, Dennis!  We made it through another hurricane, and this one was really bad, but we're ok. We were going to ride it out at home, but made a last minute decision to exit north.  We left at the very last minute and didn't go far enough to even get out of the red zone. We stopped at a motel only 100 miles northeast of mobile.  It was a rough night, with the metal roof woof woofing up and down, we curled up in the corner with little Ethel, between us, and wrapped ourselves in a sheet hoping she wouldn't blow away when the roof came off.  It didn't come off and in the morning we headed home with the winds still blowing hard. We wanted to go home before they closed the roads and wouldn't let us go. There were millions of trees down, many across I-65. A few miles south, we saw a tree fall across the road in front of us. We simply went around them in the Silverado. Very few cars were on the road. Soon we stopped in Atmore, 60 miles north of Mobile looking for gas. There wasn't any. The town was severely  devastated.  We had 10 gallon in cans so, we pressed on.  We saw a couple of cars and trucks stuck in the mud.  Before long, we saw the big "Dolly Parton" bridge ahead.  It was still standing and we made it across with the wind blowing us this way and that. The city was a mess and fairly deserted. We surveyed the damage at home. Minor roof damage, etc. with 8 trees down. Terrific! Only minor damage! I checked the house and left the wife and baby ( three and a half ) there. iI was now mid-day and the winds were dying down. I went to the business and found only minor damage-- signs, fences, wet floor, minor roof damage, etc. and  we we were extremely fortunate. Many were not. There was no power and the worst damage was across the bay, 13 miles east at Gulf Shores. We have martial law and aren't allowed to go there. They are still searching for bodies. We'll be fine, just a scratch or two and the baby got a black eye from a minor fall. I'm sure a lot of praying went on. I know that I did! Today, I sat around and starred for hours, then I broke down and cried. I rarely do that. I'd remained calm, even learning my old aunt had died from heart failure during the storm. Our baby did very well under the circumstances but, added to my stress I guess.  I'm getting too old for these adventures."  --- Chuck, it's good to hear from you after a few years of being out of touch. I'm glad to know that you and the family are safe. My heart goes out to you on the loss of your aunt. Natural disasters are so hard to deal with but, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, my friend. Be strong and hang in there. If there's anything that I can do, just let me know. (9/20/04)                                   

CINDY BACON ('70) Omaha, Nebraska had her vacation rudely interupted by Hurricane Ivan! She writes to me in this e-mail to tell me all about it... "Dear Dennis, This is my story and I'm sticking to it.  All in all, my vacation has been great because I am with my mom. I thank God for the winds from the southwest that finally turned Hurricane Ivan to the east and missed Biloxi, but I feel bad for the folks in Alabama and Florida that took the hard part of the storm.  I could not believe the devastation just east of Biloxi, Mississippi. Last Tuesday, when we were told to evacuate, and I convinced my mom to get in the car so we could go, I had no idea what I was in for.  I thought it was a six to right hour trip to my uncle's house in San Leon, Texas around Galveston.  I thought I could just take I-10 all the way with no problems.  Well, I did take I-10 all the way but, forgot that I should have taken I-12 north of New Orleans, not I-10 through New Orleans. Well, the city was evacuating BIG TIME.  It took me 25 hours to get to my destination.  It took nine hours just to get through New Orleans.  For hours and hours I never touched the gas pedal.  All I had to do was take my foot off the brake, and put it back on the brake. Meanwhile, besides having my mom in the car, we have her diabetic dog that needed 2 shots a day. None of it was bad for me nor am I complaining.  My mother on the other hand was a lost soul, kicked out of her home, stuck in traffic (if you want to call it that, it was mostly just a parking lot), and for awhile we were searching and searching for any gas station that had any gas left.  It was scary when we were hearing that Ivan was going to hit New Orleans and we were stuck on I10 at a crawl running low on gas. The amazing thing was the way everyone was nice, calm, polite, helpful, and very patient throughout the 25 hour traffic jam. We made a few stops, of course, for us and the dog.  Once we hit Texas, the first rest stop was a "Welcome to Texas" rest stop where the Red Cross was passing out water, pop and food.  It was a blessing, since we left so fast we did not really pack enough supplies. It wasn't until I was further in Texas and a semi darn near blew me off the road that I had any problems with any of the trip, and that was the only problem. So, we left Biloxi around 2:30pm on Tuesday and got to San Leon around 5:00pm on Wednesday.  My mom, her dog Rambo who is a tiny poodle, and I visited my Uncle Bee until Saturday when he then drove us back to Biloxi.  This time we left at 8:00am Saturday and got back in Biloxi at 3:30pm the same day!  We stopped for gas and ate lunch at a great truck stop, Tiger Gas, or something like that.  They had tigers that they raised and show and had great food.  They even gave Uncle Bee some free banana pudding.  We also stopped at the Louisiana and Mississippi Welcome rest stops and met some great people on their way home, too. Uncle Bee will be flying home Tuesday or whenever he wants, I suppose.  I come back to Omaha Saturday the 25th. This was one trip I will never forget.  I hope the people of Biloxi realize how lucky they were.  Many were forced to evacuate against their wishes, my mom included, and most have always stayed and braved the storm.  But, now and for the next couple of decades the storms are going to be more intense.  As proven by Ivan.  So if you have relatives living along the coast, please, please, urge the to evacuate especially if the city, county or anyone orders them to evacuate.  Sure, my Mom and I could have braved the storm, but some people in Florida and Alabama thought the same and did brave the storm but now they can't be found.  I believe it was in Florida some people had to sign a waiver to stay in their house and not evacuate, they are still not found. I guess my main reason for writing this is to urge people to tell other people how important it is to follow the evacuation when it is ordered.  Otherwise, others may have to risk their lives trying to save you or have the task of burying you when you could have lived.  Many lives were lost to Ivan and some unnecessarily. Enough about that.  I hope y'all are enjoying life and continue to do so." ---WOW! Amazing, Cindy but, I'm glad you survived! I hope everyone takes your advice when they face similar circumstances! Take care of yourself!! (9/20/04)

NATHAN WILLIS ('70) San Antonio, Texas is doing better after medical treatment for a clogged artery that through him for a loop! He sends me an e-mail update... "Dear Dennis, As promised; I went to the doctor’s appointment 13 Sept and was given an additional medication (5 now), a clean bill of health and clearance to go back to work with no limitations.  The only thing I must be watchful for are paper cuts because of the blood thinner J and bruises that may occur when handling Inmates that don’t want to be civil. What is really strange is my brother was checking out some site for school mates and low and behold, he calls me and asked if I knew a Ken Soffes. Well, on 10 September, I received an e-mail from Kenny who has been living in Houston for the past 30+ years.  Although we haven’t talked in person as yet, I have sent him the Home page address and I’m sure his disgusting all the info he hasn’t been aware of. Honestly I was so excited that he emailed because KENNETH ELKINS ('70) and I had been trying to contact him for too many years.  It felt like finding a brother that had been taken by gypsies and then returned because he ate too much.  Anyway, remove him from the “Missing” list; he‘s been found alive and well.  I’m providing his address so that other close friends that have wondered where he is can contact him at their leisure:  kdsoffes@yahoo.com<> I tried to make it to The Guys meeting the end of August but alas, I fell asleep on the couch because that Friday my wife kept me on the run or should I say “walk” all day and was just too tried to wake up.  I’ll shoot for September's meeting.  Thanks again for being a close friend. Until next time, Happy Trails." --- Nathan,  it's good to hear you're doing well and thanks for finding Kenny Soffes. I have added him to the web pages and my e-mail list. I hope he gets in touich with me. Stay on the road to recovery, dude!! (9/16/04)

WALLACE JEFFERSON ('81) San Antonio, Texas, the descendant of a slave and a graduate of John Jay High School "Class of 1981" in San Antonio was appointed the first African American chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court, today, by Gov. Rick Perry. It would be the second time Perry and Jefferson will make Texas judicial history: In March 2001, Perry appointed the attorney to be the first African American on the state's high court. He replaced another San Antonio native, Al Gonzales, who resigned to become President Bush's chief White House counsel. Perry will announced Jefferson's appointment in San Antonio, today, September 14th. Jefferson will replace former Chief Justice Tom Phillips, who stepped down Sept. 3 after nearly 17 years as chief justice. The son of a retired Air Force colonel, Wallace has been praised for his judicial restraint and even-tempered demeanor. "It is not a judge's role to make law but to interpret it," Jefferson said when Perry appointed him three years ago to the nine-member panel, the ultimate court of appeals for civil cases in Texas. It's a similar approach to the one Phillips pursued, and it "is one of the things that will make him an excellent appointment," said Ralph Wayne, president and CEO of the Texas Civil Justice League, which promotes tort and civil justice reforms. Jefferson was a member of the legendary but now defunct San Antonio law firm of Groce, Locke & Hebdon, once the largest and oldest civil law firm in the city. He also is believed to be the only San Antonio attorney who has argued twice before the U.S. Supreme Court and won both cases. Jefferson has recounted the story of Willis overcoming slavery in local speeches. Jefferson's great-great-great grandfather Shedrick Willis was listed as being a slave, the property of a Waco judge. After the Civil War, though, Willis became a city councilman. <> Jefferson, a jazz and blues aficionado, "is a late-in-life golf convert, but not a very good one," joked his brother and former law partner, Lamont Jefferson. He said his brother "has a handicap in the 22 range," making him a much better lawyer than a golfer. "I can't be more proud of him. He is perfect for the job because he will decide issues based on the law — he has no political agenda whatsoever, and he is not beholden to anyone," Lamont Jefferson said. A former president of the San Antonio Bar Association, Jefferson is a registered Republican, as are all the other justices on the court. He has nonetheless drawn positive reviews from Democrats as well as from lawyers who represent both plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases. (Information from the San Antonio Express-News 9/14/04) <><><>

PHILLIP TURNER ('72) San Antonio, Texas sent tin a super nice e-mail that I want to share with everyone... "Dennis, I  promised to be a consistent financial supporter of your web site, and have been remise in my efforts.  I will send a support check right away.  I apologize for the delinquency.  And I appreciate all you are doing and how you've been directly responsible for my recent contact with a few of my best friends from high school and earlier, including ARTHUR ZULAICA ('72), a great boyhood friend, Little League comrade (he the pitcher, me the catcher), and partner in arms, as well as, KENT SUNDBERG ('70), my partner in crime,  blood brother of different parents, and confidante.  I've been blessed to make contact with my very first “after grade school” girlfriend, ALICE BACHMAN ('72), my high school infatuation, KATHY VICE ('72), and many other spiritual and close to the heart acquaintances, too many to list here. Thanks for all you do, Dennis.  I sell telecommunications network services for BellSouth, including business Internet services, so I understand much concerning the obstacles and challenges, not to mention the countless and often thankless hours that you must commit to in order to achieve the level of involvement that is evident in your work for all of the John Jay alumni. In the immortal words of a typical volunteer supporter, “the check’s in the mail!”  (And if that check’s no good, I’ll send another one just like it) Best regards." --- Phil, thanks for the kind words. I'm glad that I and my web site have played a small role you you getting back in touch with friends. That means a lot to me. Guess, I've done something right in the world after all! Stay in touch. I'll be watching the mailbox and we'll see you at the reunion! (9/6/04)

KIM WYATT ('71) Somerset, Texas stopped by my office at Somerset ISD about a year and I hadn't heard from her for a while. I got an e-mail, today... "Dear Dennis, I am finally back on line!  My former computer crashed, but I'm back. I saw you about a year ago, in Somerset, and as you know, I made a career change and I am now a special ed teacher at Holmes; before, I never truly appreciated how hard teachers work. Wow! What an awakening!  Of course, I always cross my fingers for Jay when competing against Holmes in anything; so I am not such a traitor after all. Our goats and sheep are still growing and "producing."  We sure do enjoy the peace and quiet whenever we are home. My family is  doing well. Skip (can you believe we have been married 30 years?) is the Director of Case Management at the Nix Hospital system. Our son, Corey, just graduated from nursing school at the Health Science Center and is working at the downtown Baptist Hospital, attending an OR course. He was married to Jeanette last October. Skip and I are going to be grandparents at the end of January. We are truly blessed. I'll try to get by and see you, Dennis, if I can leave work early enough! I really appreciate your web site. We are so lucky to have you to keep up with all of us. I don't know of any other school who has such a jewel!! Count us in for the reunion - I can't wait to see everyone! Thanks again! " ---Congratulations on becoming grandparents! That is so cool. I really enjoyed out visit last year and can't wait to see you, again. Thanks for your kind words! You are so wonderful!! Glad you're coming to the reunion. It's gonna be a blast!! (9/4/04)

AUGUST 2004
SANDY WOODS ('70) Richmond, Texas has learned that her 3-year old grandson, Ryan has Type I juvenile diabetes. She and her husband DEAN DUNN ('69) are involved in a special effort to help find a cure. She writes to me... "Dennis, I invite our classmates join me in a special effort to help raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Please visit a special web site at: Sandy Woods Dunn for JDRF  for more information. JDRF was founded in 1970 by the parents of children with juvenile diabetes -- a disease that strikes children suddenly, makes them insulin dependent for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications. Since inception, JDRF has provided more than $600 million to diabetes research worldwide. In a typical year, 85 percent of JDRF's expenditures directly support research and education about research. JDRF's mission is constant: to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research. For more information, please visit http://www.jdrf.org, or call 800-533-CURE. Keep our little guy in your prayers. Thank you." ---Sandy, it's always great to hear from you. Suffering from Type II diabetes, myself, I know how serious this disease is. My prayers and thought are with Ryan and the JDRF in hope of finding a cure. (8/30/04)

KENT "KENNY" SUNDBERG ('70) Omaha, Nebraska saw the above photo and was able to help me with a name and a correction on the band's name. He writes... "Dear Dennis, What a hoot seeing that photo from the talent show so very long ago. A couple of corrections to bring it all up to speed. The name of the band was "The Baja Maraca Botchers", not "marimba." The chap next to you in the photo is John Dany ('69), our first trumpet in the JJ Band. The fellow next to Ralph, on his left as you look at the photo, is David Robinson ('69)  first trombone in the JJ Band. Were I not so old and with such poor vision, I would try to tell you who all the others are. "Those were the days my friend, we thought they'd never end...."I am always moved by the efforts of yourself and so many others that keep the memories and the updates of our lives from the not so distant past. Tis a debt that cannot be repaid. I look forward to our reunion in '05. Please pass to any and all that you should be in touch with my greetings. So many of our friends responded to my medical malady. I was again, very touched. I hope I was able to respond to the many in a personal way as I did endeavor to do. Peace... through superior fire power. Semper Fi." ---Kenny, thanks for the corrections on the photo caption. As you can see, I made the changes. I look forward to seeing you at the reunion, next year. Until then, hang in there! (8/29/84)

MASON WRIGHT ('70) Corpus Christi, Texas MUGGED me at THE GUYS meeting, tonight. He recently went on his yearly Harley pilgrimage to Sturgis, South Dakota for the 64th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. During the trip, he picked me up a commemorative Strugis Rally coffee mug AND a coffee mug from Devil's Tower National Monument. Devil's Tower is that thing the actor, Richard Dreyfuss, was building with all the rocks and mud in his living room in the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." Remember? It's that huge square mountain where the spaceship lands and all people were drawn to. Anyway, the place actually exists and Mason went there and brought me back a mug! Is that awesome or what??!! Mason, thanks so very much for taking time out of your trips to remember to get me a mug! You're a fantastic friend! (8/27/04)

LINDA ANDERSON ('70) San Antonio, Texas has surprised the living daylights out of me by sending in an e-mail after umteen years! "Hey, Dennis! Remember me? Wow is there a lot to catch up on. I have just spent about the last 3 hours reading the web site. You are still keeping the flame going, that is for sure. What will happen to Pizza Hut if you guys ever quit going there? My apologies for not keeping in touch. In reading on several classmates losses I can truly emphasize. Dennis, we lost Mom in October 2001. This is the most traumatic event I have ever experienced, losing a parent. She lost her battle with breast cancer, after the mastectomy, she did pretty well for a couple more years, but... We had hospice come into the home during her last couple of weeks. Dad and I were at her bedside during her last breaths. It was a sad day on Garden Valley when the hearse drove her away. But through it all, she kept her humor and we never saw her depressed or sad. She is resting at the cemetery off Hwy. 16 right past 1604. (Her request) Dad remarried six months later, and this lady (who he rescued from a retirement home in Boerne) passed away 4 months later (don't laugh). He got back on the internet within the next month and has been dating the woman ever since. He is now 73, heart angina and one lung (one was removed due to lung cancer, during the time Mom was taking radiation after her chemo). He has taken some chemo also but is in remission. Other than that, we leave him alone. Of course in the beginning we didn't cotton up to the new wife and girlfriend, but have learned to let him enjoy the years he has. At this stage in our lives when we lose a parent it makes us take stock of our own mortality. I have 3 grandchildren now. 13, 3 and 5. My little sister had another baby almost a year to the date after Mom passed away. I crack up reading about some of our male classmates still having babies! Is it the Viagra? My sister, Janice is doing well in Maryland. Her 3 boys have all graduated and joined the armed services. She is experiencing empty nest syndrome. As of this note, she is waiting to hear if Johns Hopkins Hospital will let her be a kidney donor for her husband. He is on dialysis 4 times a week due to diabetes. She has passed all the tests, but then they discovered a spot on one of her kidneys. Prayers for her also. I finally got my Bachelors Degree in Psychology of Organizations and Development from Incarnate Word. I took all the classes online. Very fulfilling experience, I highly recommend it. I'm still single, have 2 dogs now, bought another home off of 1604 and Culebra, and keeping an eye on Dad. Will send you a donation soon. And will keep in touch more often. As always, Love you Lots, Linda Anderson." ---WOW! Thanks for the update on your life. You and I had stayed in touch there for a while and then ya dropped off the face of the earth, girl! So sorry to hear of your mom passing away. I had no idea that I pass the cemetery where she is buried, almost twice a week. It is located on the way from my office at Somerset ISD to one of our schools on Hwy 16. and Smith Road. Small world. In your good news, congratulations on earning your degree. I wish I had the gumption and means to finish my degree. Good job! Your sister's family has our best wishes and prayers that everything goes well. Oh, about THE GUYS, well, we had our August meeting tonight and one of your fellow former JJHS Mustang Band members made his first appearance-- RALPH GALAVIZ ('69). We had a wonderful time with him and he promises to join our ranks! Tell ya' what... I officially invite you to the September GUYS meeting on the LAST Friday of the month at Pizza Hut. Be there!! Love you, too! (8/27/04)

CARL JENSEN ('70) Newport News, Virginia, sent me an e-mail today and I have his permission to share it with everyone... "Dennis, I will be in San Antonio on Monday, August 30th.  My mother has been diagnosed with cancer and she will have it removed on Tuesday, the 31st. The surgery will be done at the Santa Rosa Hospital-Medical Center on Babcock Road.  Mom has been told to expect to be in recovery for several days following surgery. She will start chemo approximately 6-8 weeks later.  My wife, Carol, and I will be staying close to the medical center at a Hampton Inn, on Manitou Road off Loop 410.  Our family would greatly appreciate and covet your prayers. By the way, you will shortly be receiving a contribution to support the web site. Thanks for all the time and effort that you spend keeping the Flame Burning...CJ" --- Carl, you know my prayers and those of your classmates are for your mom and I hope we can link up next week. Give me a call when you can. Thanks for supporting the web site and thank you for always being there for me and the web site. Hang in there, Colonel. (8/25/04)

NATHAN WILLIS ('70) San Antonio, Texas, sent me a sobering e-mail this evening... "Dennis, no other way of telling this but to just come out with it. Last Monday, 8/16/04, at 3:00 in the afternoon, while leaving the jail parking lot to go to work at the City Magistrate Office, I became faint, hot, and sweaty, and could not breathe very well. Luckily, someone was leaving the area and called for help. A very short ambulance ride later, I was admitted to Santa Rosa Hospital. Dr. Garcia [placed a stent in my right artery and after staying for eight days and nights, I'm out, feeling fine, and a few life changes to deal with- the same as everyone else- diet, stress, stop smoking, in-laws, out-laws. Everyone have faith- I can do this!!! I'll keep you posted for the next couple of weeks, as I'll be home resting.  And before I forget, thanks for everyone’s prayer’s that prayed without knowing, they were praying." --- Nate, you hang in there and our prayers ARE with you, my friend. Do what the doc says and BA-DING-BING!. (8/24/04)

TAMRA "TAMMY" GASS ('77) & FRANKIE DUDLEY ('77) San Antonio, Texas just got married and I offer them congratulations. She sent me a photo and a note... "Today I married my best friend.  Many of you know that Frankie and I dated in high school and wanted to get married after graduation but, his dad retired and the family moved away. We lost contact with one another and, over the years, we both have tried to find each other at different points in our life.  I was lucky to locate him while working on our "Class of '77" 25-year reunion.  Frankie and I talked on the phone almost daily for over a year. He was in Florida and I was in Arizona.  Once we met at the reunion, that was all it took, we both packed up, and moved back to San Antonio, we have been together of over 2-years.  And now we are married.  Frankie says that it been a long wait for him 27 years. Love to all from Texas!"


Tamra (Tammy) Gass & Frankie Dudley
 
URBAN URBANO ('70) San Antonio, Texas, and I stay in touch about every five years so, I had some catching up to do when I spoke with him yesterday, August 19th. Last May, our classmate and world famous rock-n-roll drummer, broke his leg while roller skating with his 4-year old son at a skating rink. It turns out, the break was so complicated that he required surgery and Urban has been laid up for 4-months now, and unable to work. San Antonio area music fans and friends have organized a great  BENEFIT for Urban to raise money for his mounting doctor bills. So, everyone is invited to a night of fantastic music and dancing: FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2004 at the BLANCO BALLROOM, 3719 BLANCO ROAD, inside Loop 410 from 7:00PM -1:00AM. If you want more information contact MARGIE @ 699-6696 or VIRGINA @ 738-8344. Drop Urban a note by e-mail. Just click on the link in his name at the start of this. By the way, we are trying to reunite the members of Urban's three 1960's bands: Col. Tyke's Traveling Medicine Show & Musical Band + Blind Light + Mother Goose to play LIVE at our reunion!!  Featuring URBAN URBANO, JAY URBANO, CECIL YANCEY, DOUG HALL, PAUL KANDERA, and others!! (8/20/04)
JULY 2004
CAROL LIPSEY ('70) Bulverde, Texas, has agreed to head-up the decorating committee for SHINDIG V, next July. I wrote to her and I got her e-mail replay today, She has been busy, busy, busy since I last talked to her about a year ago or more. In fact, she came to wait with me at the hospital when my sister Linda was having her cancer surgery. Carol has always been so sweet. We get along so beautifully having been boyfriend and girlfriend so long, long. long ago but, I digress.. LOL. Anyway, she writes... "Dennis, but of course, I'll be happy to handle the decorating for the SHINDIG reunion, my darling! We'll have to have lunch and catch up, eh. Surprise for you! Richard has 25-yrs in Time Warner and we now have a telescope! You'll still have to bring your telescope out and we can have a star gazing night. Then, we can look up. LOL Old nostalgic humor. Our daughter, Laura graduated high school, this year and now we're looking for scholarships for her to enter. She'd like to go to NW Community by Sea-World to start out and get some basics in. I am still going to go back to help with the homeschool co-op in New Braunfels. We are moving the library upstairs...well, someone's going to move the library upstairs and I will delegate. I'll be over there Monday and get some planning done...ugh, that'll be the easy part. I'm also going to teach Government and Economics, this next year. I may not know much...but I can teach 'em what not to do. Our son, Keith, is back from Seattle and living here now. He's got a business starting...truly starting...it's getting off the ground pretty good. Our other son has decided to do what he's always wanted to do and that's coach football. So, he's heading back to college and finish his degree in order to do that. Richard and I still have a 'homegroup' twice a month as well as other ministries we're involved in at church. It's fulfilling helping others and still learning with them. We have also woke up to the fact that we need to start thinking about retirement income...my, my, how time flies...whew. We've started a business helping others to see how fast retirement can be on our doorstep and to be ready. We have a web site:    QBIZ.com Sooo, needless to say, who hasn't been busy...We are just trying to do what's important and not urgent so we can stay focused on the now, yet be a part of the future happenings. We also went to England this past January and Laura came with us to meet her Briton blood line. I have one uncle that has been ailing with forgetfulness so, we enjoyed our visit. He said he may not remember after I left but, he was enjoying it at the time. So, I took pictures for proof for him. Well, I shan't bore you any longer. I love you, my friend." --- Carol, my cute cupcake, my sweet sugarplum, my little hot enchilada!! Thanks so much for taking on the decorating chores. You did such a wonderful job for SHINDIG III & IV that I knew we could count on you, again! You always make me laugh!! Hey, we missed my birthday dinner, again! As for our "star gazing night" it's been so long, I'd have to tear my house apart to find my telescope but, it's around here somewhere. There is no more beautiful view of the night sky than from your hilltop home. I swear to god, y'all have your own private stars out there!! Hey, thanks for the update on the kids. They have grown up so darn fast. I can't wait to see ya' again and visit your beautiful home. Now, let's see if I remember how to get there... I go out IH 10 and drive until I get to the Montana border and turn left.... I love you, too! (7/24/04)

KEVIN WILLIS ('72) San Antonio, Texas found this web site and sent an e-mail... "Dennis, I talked to SUSAN EAGAN recently and she informed me of a site for John Jay HS. I went to Jay from 1969 - 1970. Family moved after my brother NATHAN WILLIS ('70) graduated. I should have been class of 1972. Instead, we moved to Mississippi for about three months of school and then to Sherman HS, Tx. I took my GED prior to Class of '72, and went into USAF. I consider John Jay as my school, solely because this is where I was raised. I returned to San Antoino in 1983, while assigned at Randolph, and retired there. Now, I live off Marbach Road between Hwy 90-Loop 410 and Loop 1604. I have only seen LESLIE DILDY and JOAN WOODRUFF. I saw a friend and classmate of yours and Nathan's while I was in Japan- KENNY ELKINS ('70). He is now in Abilene. Dennis, I do not know if I would know you without seeing photo." --- Kevin, it's good to hear from you. I need the e-mail address of Susan and Kenny. They both seemed to have changed their e-mail; address without sending me the new one. Do you have it? If so, please send to me ASAP. I can't believe you've gone this long without seeing my web site until now. Didn't your brother tell you about it? So, ya' wouldn't recognize me without seeing a photo of me, first? Hmmm, if I showed you a photo, how would you know it was really me? Hope to see you at the reunion! (7/24/04)

STEPHEN QUINN ('72) San Antonio, Texas sent in an e-mail, today... "Hey Dennis, my brother GLYNN QUINN ('69) and his wife SANDY (DILTS) QUINN ('73 or '74) and my brother-in-law EVAN RALPH ('72) will be attending the SHINDIG. I will try to send some money for this great site. Things are a little tight with vacation planning and my two kids wanting to do so much this summer. My daughter Kayla goes to John Jay and is a sophomore. She doesn't want to go to the new John Paul Stevens High School, when it opens next year. What determination. Sorry, I missed your B'day, so "HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY." --- Steve, it's good to hear from you. Do me a favor, get the e-mail address for Glynn & Sandy (and Sandy's correct graduation year) and Evan's e-mail address so I can add them to the site and to my mailing list. I need that ASAP. I look forward to seeing everyone next July! (7/22/04)

SU GARNETT ('76) Highland Lakes, New Jersey, found my web site and was thrilled with it. She sent a note... "Dennis, how do I add my e-mail on your web site and e-mail list? I would love to track down some of my old classmates. A few that I am looking for include... Tommy Felder ('74), Laura Felder ('76) and Donna Moffit ('75). Donna is in your file however, her e-mail address is dead. Thanks for the wonderful site!!!  It is totally awesome!!!!" --- Su, it's great to hear from you. I have added your e-mail listing to my web site and my e-mail list. I know the frustration of sending e-mail to a wrong address. I don't track down classmates anymore after 20 years of this. I can only hope that people remember to send me the information when they switch e-mail addresses but, most don't. There are many "dead" e-mail links on my site but, there's not much I can do. Stay in touch. (7/21/04)

TAMMY GASS ('77) and FRANKIE DUDLEY ('77) San Antonio, Texas, is getting married! She writes to me... "Hi Dennis, Thought I would share with you my count down as well, as you know that I found my long lost love when I was planning our 25th class reunion as few years ago. And little did I know that we were both looking for each other at different times in our lives, we have continued to love each other and have been together since the reunion. Frankie moved from Florida back to San Antonio and I moved back from Arizona. We are getting married on August 20, 2004. Wanted to share this with you since you helped me with so many ideas and planning of our reunion. Looking forward to the next get together." --- Way to go, Tammy and Frankie!! Congratulations. Glad that I could play a small part in getting you two together. (7/21/04)

JOE BRESNOK (‘74) Lytle, Texas has returned to the Mustang Corral in a unique way. His wife, Kathy was hired as the superintendent’s secretary at Somerset ISD, back in April. It just so happens that I (Dennis), am the Somerset ISD Public Information Officer and Elections Administrator, and I have my office in the same building. Kathy and I have gotten to know one another and in a recent conversation, I told her that I graduated from John Jay High School, back in 1970. Much to our mutual surprise, she tells me her husband, Joe, graduated from Jay in 1974. Just yesterday, Joe came by the office for a visit and I got to meet him. I told him about this web site and that he has a 30-year reunion coming up in October. He was elated. I’ve added him to my web site and mailing list. I guess it’s just like the Disney song says, “It’s a small world after all!” (7/9/04)

RICK SANDOVAL ('71) San Antonio, Texas has volunteered for duty in Baghdad, Iraq. He was accepted and shipped out on July 6th to Houston, Texas. After processing, his next stop is Baghdad International Airport in about 6 days. Rick is a 20-year retired U.S. Army veteran and was recently working security at Lackland AFB. Rick is also one of "THE GUYS" and he explained why he is doing what he's doing at the June GUYS meeting at Pizza Hut. We just celebrated 17 years of meeting on the last Friday of every month. We made Rick take a Pizza Hut spatula with him (with the manager's permission) and told him that he has to take photos of himself holding the spatula and Pizza Hut name tag in the middle of Baghdad! He'll also be wearing our customized GUYS dog tags! Rick's son, David, is over there right now in the 82nd. Our prayers and best wishes go out to Rick. Hey, we'll see you in a year, buddy! THE GUYS ARE WITH YA' ALL THE WAY! And like they used to say on "Hill Street Blues"... "Hey, Let's be careful out there!" [Rick can get e-mail while in Iraq, so, click on his name at the beginning of this story and you'll get his e-mail address.] (7/8/04)

DON HARING ('70) in Kentucky, works for the Army Corps of Engineers and has recently transferred to a location in Kentucky. He had been working on a project near Anchorage, Alaska. The construction project, that he was with, started two years ago. It will support the system being activated this September.  He said they did have some smaller follow-up work that that they're doing.  Now, he's working at another site, where they will construct a plant to dispose of chemical weapons similar to the plant he worked on in Oregon but, this plant will use a neutralization process in lieu of incineration. (7/8/04)

LOUIS FIGUEROA ('70) Dallas, Texas dropped me an e-mail, today. He's had his own successful insurance agency in the Dallas area for many years. It's been a while since I have heard from him but, it's always great when he touches base... "Dennis, it's been so long since I read the web site. I read about MIMI VERBOIS ('69) attending a recent Willie Nelson concert and she is right on about those, "Los Lonely Boys." They stole the show at the Fort Worth Stock Yards on the 4th of July, this past weekend. It was such a blast! Willie broke the attendance record- 45,000. After the concert, I went straight out and bought their CD. If, you get the "Los Lonely Boys" to come to play at the reunion, I'll be sure to attend and won't go to Europe next year, until the following week! LOL I didn't get the chance to express my feeling about the passing of our classmate, Clair Neyland. Here's a true story about what kind of a person she really was while we were at John Jay. One fall day around Halloween, we were in English Class, of course I was being disruptive and not paying attention, and the teacher got very upset. Well, she just totally humiliated me that day. I guess Clair felt the actual hurt that I felt, even though I was to proud to admit it or show it. Clair took me aside after class,  "Hey Louis, can we talk?" I said sure. "What happened in there need not ever happen again, because i know you have the potential to be a straight "A" student, especially in that class. If you want some help, see me in the library and I'll help you." Well Dennis, I never got the chance to thank Clair. She was so right and helpful. I never made under an "A" in that english class. (Psst, only reason i passed algebra under Ms Madla, was because of Clair. She was an exceptional person and tutor. She even kept it our secret. You'd be surprised what 30 minutes in the library with Clair made a tremendous difference on how I took my high school education there. God Bless You Clair... Now, as for me and mine- my youngest son graduated from high school finally and will be attending North Texas State in Denton Texas, come the 15th of August. My wife and I will be home alone! FANTASTIC!! Except, one of my sons blessed us with three grand daughters, who come over every weekend just about, to swim and visit. Ahhh, life goes on my friend. Happy Birthday, Dennis and to Ringo, too!" --- Like I said, it's always great to hear from you, Louis. Hope ya can make the party next year! (7/8/04)

RAY WHITWORTH ('73) Dallas, Texas is back "on the air." He has been in between gigs looking for just the right venue for his many talents. Sounds to me like he's latched on to a good deal. In his e-mail to me he writes, " Dennis, once again, after a hiatus, I will be hitting the airwaves doing another earth shattering, mind numbing and psycho therapy morning show on station KSCH FM 95.9 in Sulphur Springs, Texas. It's a city about the size of  San Marcos. The signal also serves Greenville and Commerce, Texas. I will also be the assistant PD (program director). The drive to work is exactly one hour from my driveway. The station, itself, is just off of I-30 and not in the boonies or, as my wife would say, "B.F.E." The music format is country. The area looks very nice. I will start on Wednesday, July 21st. My thanks to all who have been there supporting me the past few months." --- Ray, it's to hear that you're back in the saddle. After my 20 years in radio, I'm glad to be out but, I sure do miss it at times. I still enjoy writing the commercials for KTSA, KSRX and other stations here in San Antonio, on a freelance basis. Send me an air check when ya get the chance. Best wishes to you! (7/8/04)

CARL JENSEN ('70) Newport News, Virginia always keep me posted about what's going on in his world. He works in a civilian capacity at Langley AFB, where he retired as a colonel a few years back. His close friend, fellow air force colonel and John Jay classmate GLEN WHITAKER ('72) just retired from there, himself. Carl and I talk just about everything under the sun, especially the SUN.  I told him how damn hot it gets here, now (maybe it's my age and I can't deal with it anymore) and he dropped me an e-mail today... "Dennis. we are going through a heat spell as well, only we have the humidity to compound the equation, 90 degrees heat, 95% humidity equals 105 heat index! I attended  Glen Whitaker's retirement from the USAF on the 25th of June. He retired as a full Colonel. I also was able to visit with his brother (our '70 classmate) WARREN WHITAKER ('70) and their mom. Also, I noticed in your last "Found Mustangs" list that you found a PAULA EDGIN ('70), now living in Smithfield, Virginia.  I could not find a listing of her in the directory. Is thi  is her married name, and/or do you have her in the right class, or did she just make it into the annual  ?  I live just across the river from Smithfield. Take Care." --- Thanks for the info, Carl. Don't talk to me about humidity and wimpy 105 degree heat indexes. Hell, we had a 112 degree heat index back in May! You guys in Virginia are on easy street. Yeah. Glen and Warren stopped by my house a month or two ago and brought me a cool coffee mug as I talked to them from my, now famous, front bathroom window. As for Paula... her family transferred before our senior year but, she was part of our 1970 class. As you know, as far as I am concerned, "ONCE A MUSTANG, ALWAYS A MUSTANG!" She is so excited about coming to the reunion and seeing everyone after 35+ years! (7/6/04)


July 7, 2002 - My 50th Birthday, after 29 years with a beard, I took the plunge!
(Oh, by the way, I grew it back!)

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