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:  JULY-DECEMBER 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

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

JUNE 2005
 ROBERT "BOB" FRAZIER ('72) showed up at the GUYS meeting this past Friday night, all the way from CAIRO, EGYPT, just to make a GREAT donation to the website! Bob works under the American Embassy and the Department of Defense. He can't tell us exactly what he does, but I think it has something to do with PIZZA. (Inside joke).  He's back for the reunion and even made a fantastic donation to the web site! He brought me TWO of those arab head-dresses. You know those red and white cloths with the black band that goes on top of the head? They are so cool. Bob heads back to the land of mummies near the end of July. By the way, the GUYS celebrated their 18th Year Anniversary of meeting in the Mustang Room at Pizza Hut on the last Friday of every month at 7:30 p.m.!  (6/25/05)

DOUG WHITE ('72) in Maui, Hawaii has done something very special for SHINDIG 5! Thanks to the fantastic donation  he has made for the Friday night social at the high school cafeteria on July 15th, from 6:00-9:00 PM, it is FREE for everyone! If that is the only function you can attend, please be our guest! We usually charge like $15 to attend but not this time around thanks to DOUG! So, everyone who can make it to the school, please do so!!  Lots of people wanted to send their thanks to Doug and asks me for his email address. So, if you click on his name above, you can send him a THANK YOU email! I know that I would appreciate folks for doing that. His donation was HUGE and everyone who attends this SHINDIG benefits from Doug's generosity. Thanks, Doug. Aloha!! (6/3/05)

MAY 2005
RAY & SHIRLEY (HARDEN) FERGUSON ('70/ 71) in San Antonio, Texas sent in a website donation along with their SHINDIG 5 reservation. There was a slight delay in my acknowledging this and I wanted to be sure to list their generous donation. Thanks and I look foward to seeing you both very soon! (5/29/05)

CHARLES "CHUCK" KOSTMAYER ('70) in Mobile, Alabama wont be able to make the reunion because he and his wife have a new baby due around that time. In place of attending, he has sent in a donation check to keep this website going strong. Chuck, I sure appreciate the donation and on behlaf of all the Mustangs, best wishes on the new baby! By the way, I still have that German World War II helmet, that you gave me many years ago, on display in my living room. It is so cool! All the best to you. (5/28/05)

ALAN FREDERICK ('70) in Houston, Texas does it yet, AGAIN!! He has made a SUPER generous donation for the 3rd time this year!! I am at a loss for words! I guess by your multiple donations that you enjoy the website and that really means a lot. Alan, thank you so much for your continued donations. It sure helps keep the flame burning brightly and your generosity is so much appreciated. Thank your kindness and super generosity! See you in July! (5/25/05)

PAULA SCOFIELD ('71) in San Antonio, Texas sent in a donation to keep this website going and I sure do appreciate it! She tells me that she really enjoys the features on here, as well as, the updates about the reunion. Well, Paula, I enjoy hearing from wonderful people like yourself, who wanna keep things going! Thank you, so very very much! (5/8/05)

LILA FOSTER ('74) in Dallas, Texas mailed in the first donation in May for the web site and says her reservation check for three people is on its way! I hadn't seen Lila for 33+ years or so, until I attended the memorial service for her dad, last month. She look as gorgeous as ever and still has that beautiful smile and the sparkle in her eyes! Lila, thanks so much for the donation check and I can't wait to be able to spend more time with ya' in July at the reunion! (5/2/05)

APRIL 2005
JIM DAVIS ('70) in Hawthorne, Florida sent in a great donation for the website. Thanks Jimbo. Hope to see you in at the reunion in July, my friend! (4/30/05)

MATT DELANEY ('70) in Santa Barbara, California sent in ANOTHER donation this year. The man's generosity knows no bounds! Thank you, Matt D. (4/30/05)

NELDA CARTER ('73) in San Antonio, Texas has sent in her donation to fuel the Mustang flame and I thank her so much for her kind generosity. (4/30/05)

KATHY KISLING ('70) Woodbine, Maryland sent in a website donation for this month and I sure do appreciate it. Kathy gave me a call and we talked up a storm. It's gonna be a blast to see her again after 35 years! Thanks for your donation, Kathy and I'll be seeing you soon! (4/22/05)

MARCH 2005
THE GUYS gave me some money for the website at our monthly meeting last night. I want to thank WILLY LOWE ('71), MASON WRIGHT ('70) and BILL MIZELL ('70) for their generosity. It is truly amazing what an over abundance of good wine will motivate people to do! (3/26/05)

EILEEN SCHLAEGER ('76) in Fairfax, Virginia has sent in a very gererous check for the website and I sure do appreciate it. I think she has sent the shortest note EVER with her donation-- "Thanks for the hard work!" Short and to the point, that's for sure. The next day, she send me an email... "Dear Dennis, I sent in my money for the reunion at the same time that I wrote the check to you. The vacation is already on the books at work. Nothing would stop me from coming to the reunion. I really do hope that my sister Susanne will make it too. Thanks for all of your hard work. It is nice to stay in touch with home especially when so far away." ---Eileen thanks so much for the donation. Traffic on this website has tripled in the past month and your funds will sure help keep us going. I really appreciate you helping out. Your sister Christine told me that all you sisters are trying to make the reunion together. That would be groovy to the max! LOL Hope to see ya' in July! (3/23/05)

LORI McDERMOTT ('70) in Ashburn, Virginia has been back with us for less than one week after a 36-year absence and she has already sent in a wonderful donation for this website! That just blows me away! (Be sure to check under CLASSMATE NEWS, further down this page, for Lori's initial email to me.) She sent me an Easter card with her check and she writes... "Dear Dennis, I've spent so much time on your John Jay website since discovering it on Sunday. Thank you for all the hard work that you put into the site. I'm seeking out old friends from all the name I see. I am hoping to see everyone in July at the SHINDIG. I told you a little about myself in my previous email. I've been married to my husband, Steve, for 32 years, as of next month. He is a defense contractor after serving for 20 years in the Navy.We were married in Austin, while students at UT. We have two daughters- Casey is 29 and married to an attorney in the U.S. Army. They are stationed in Germany, where she teaches 7th and 8th grade on post. Lesile is 26 and wil soon complete her PhD in material sciences and engineering at the University of Florida. As for me, well, for the past 23 years I have been an independent sales leader with Longaberger. The produce and market incredible baskets and home decor. Well, have a colorful, warm and wonderful bright and beautiful Easter Day! Baskets of Blessings!" ---Lori, thanks so much for your donation for the website and the lovely Easter card. It means so much to me to know that great people like you enjoy my website. I really do hope that you're able to attend the reunion. It would be groovy to see you after all this time! Again, thanks for your donation. You are wonderful!! (3/21/05)

RANDY PEARSON ('71) in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania has sent in yet another donation for this web site. The guy is amazing. He's always there to help things out. He attaches a short note- "Dennis, Thanks again for your great work with the site." He keeps it short and sweet and, while he may be stingy with words, he's generous in spirit and his outstanding generosity. Randy, thank you for your continued support, both financially and in spirit! My best to you, my friend! (3/21/05)

FEBRUARY 2005
CARL JENSEN ('70) in Newport News, Virginia has outdone himself with his annual support of this website and it blows me away. He writes... "Dear Dennis, here is my yearly contribution to the web page operation. I want to thank you for the continued good work and keeping it together. I don't think you will ever fully realize the positive impact of your work on the John Jay family. I know in my case that your announcement of my mother's passing was a real blessing in that I heard from so many "lost" friends that I would never have heard from. Every one of them said that they saw it on your web site. THANKS. I have maintained contact with our classmate, GEORGE HUNTER ('70), in Baghdad, through email and he said that unfortunately, his mission in Iraq was going to prevent his being able to attend the reunion. He is so sorry that he's going to miss all the fun. Here in Virginia, we are battening down the hatches for a winter storm, tonight and in the morning, so I will close for now and hopefully see you in July. Take care." ---Carl, thank you for the donation check to keep this website going year after year. Your continued generosity is amazing. You have been there since the very beginning. You mention the impact that I've had on the lives of our classmates through the website. Geez, doing all this website and reunion stuff is like therapy for me! LOL Everyone's donation makes it possible for me to keep my therapy going! Maybe someday, I'll be cured! LOL I am very honored by your kind words and praise. I'm glad that the little things I could do, helped ease the sorrow of your mom's passing. I know all you wonderful people will be there for me if I have to face the same situation. As for FRANK TRIMM ('69), well, I got this update from him today! He is doing very well. He left the hospital on the 27th of January and has been recuperating at home, since then.  His new heart valve is doing fine and he goes back to the cardiologist on the 16th of March to get the word on when he can return to work. He's a real trooper! As for GEORGE HUNTER, he stay in close touch with me as well and did say he wasn't going to make the reunion. The guy has a heart of gold and whatever it is that he's doing over there is going to make a wonderful difference in the lives of the Iraqi people. I don't have sufficient security clearance to know exactly what he does over there but, hey, someday he can tell me, I'm sure! LOL Again, thank you for your generosity, kindness, and most of all-- your friendship. God bless you, Carl. You're on of the best friends I've ever had in 52 years of life. See you soon. (P.S. I used to "batten down the hatches" until my mom said I'd go blind doing it and grow hair on the palms of my hands!) (2/26/05)

TONY PELLETIER ('71) in Houston, Texas has a different understanding of the word "modest," than I do. He sent in his "modest" donation for this website and my mailman had to do the HEIMLICH maneuver on me when I opened the envelope. I nearly choked!! Tony, thanks so much for your generosity. It means a lot to have such wonderful peple, as yourself, helping to keep things going. Traffic on this site has really increased and this comes at an important time. You'll note that just below you on this list is classmate ALAN FREDERICK ('71), who also lives in the Houston area. You two Houstonites are awesome! Again, thanks for your donation to keep this going and we'll see you in July! (2/22/05)

ALAN FREDERICK ('70) in Houston, Texas does it again. If, you folks who are readin this, right now, will scroll down about 4 inches on this page, you'll see another listing for Alan. He has made a very generous donation for the 2nd month in a row. I don't think anyone has ever done that before. Not in the history of my web site. I am almost at a loss for words! Alan, thank you so much for your additional donation. It sure helps out a lot. Things slow down this time of year as everyone is still paying their Christmas bills. I appreciate your kindness and super generosity! See you in July! (2/17/05)

JANUARY2005
CHARLES "CHUCK" BOOTH ('71) in Del Rio, Texas, is in the U.S. Border Patrol . It seems like he's in in the Border Patrol since the Rio Grande was just a creek! Chuck sent in a FANTASTIC check for the website and I sure do appreciate it! We're getting almost as much trafiic on the site as he sees on the Mexico-Texas border! I know that things haven't been easy on the border and please know how much we all appreciate the dangerous work you are doing! You are in the first line of defense for our country's safety! Again, thanks for the check and thanks for all you do! I sure hope that we'll be seeing you at the reunion SHINDIG V, in July! (1/29/05)
ALAN FREDERICK ('70) in Houston, Texas, has sent in a donation for the web site. When I e-mailed him a thank you note, I asked him if he got any of that snow back in December. It snowed in Houston, Victoria and even in Brownville but, NOT in San Antonio! Well, the picture he sent me paints a thousand words about snow in Houston! Alan- thanks for your generous donation and I look forward to seeing you at the SHINDIG V in July!!

Alan wrote... "Donna and I were to fly to Cleveland, Ohio, as the snow started here. So, we got to watch the snow fall in Houston, while we waited 6 hours for our flight! As for the reunion, I can't wait til July, as it's been better than 30 years since seeing some of these mugs! Now, if I could only find some of the guys from my Vietnam days, this easy. Thanks for all your efforts with the website,and keeping it together." (1/15/05)
Alan Frederick ('70) scrapes away snow in Ohio.
He had left snow in Houston, where it had delayed his flight to Cleveland by six hours!

RICHARD BRATZ ('70) in Apple Valley, California has sent in the very first web site donation for 2005! I didn't get a chance to check my mail, yesterday, and I went to my mailbox a little after midnight to watch the New Year's fireworks. So, technically, it was January 1st, when I opened the envelope! Thanks for the donation, Richard. You have been one of the most consistent supporters over the years and I thank you so much for the help!! (1/1/05)

MUSTANGS, 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!" 
MARY SCHOOLCRAFT ('73) Albuquerque, New Mexico
GAIL MORENCY ('71) Fair Oaks, Texas
LINDA SMITH ('73) Glen Rock, Pennsylvania
MIKE WORLEY ('72) Nigeria, Africa
GEORGE MONK ('71) Clearfield, Utah
JANINE RODRIGUEZ ('71) San Antonio, Texas
BECKIE AUSTIN ('75) Moss Bluff, Louisiana
DEBBIE MUNOZ ('86) San Antonio, Texas
KEN SPANG ('77) Austin, Texas
LINDA "LIN" HUGHES ('69) Castroville, Texas
MARK MOLPUS ('71) San Antonio, Texas
FRANKEY TUBB ('70) Dripping Springs, Texas
WANDA TUBB ('72) Albuquerque, New Mexico
DAVID WHITWORTH ('71) San Antonio, Texas
DOTTIE WEBBER ('71) San Antonio, Texas
LORI McDERMOTT ('70) Ashburn, Virginia
JEFF BLANCHARD ('71) Houston, Texas
KAREN KEMP ('75) San Antonio, Texas
SYLVIA ALANIZ ('75) Bartlett, Tennessee
EMMA HOLLOWAY ('75) San Antonio, Texas
MELISSA STEWART ('75) San Marcos, Texas
DENISE CANCHOLA ('73) Unknown Location
JOE MORRIS ('72) Houston, Texas
KATHERINE ROSS ('75) San Antonio, Texas
MICHAEL KIDDER ('71) Memphis, Tennessee
PATTY ROBINSON ('71) San Antonio, Texas
RICK CRAYTON ('72) Poplar Bluff, Missouri
VANESSA ROBBINS ('69) San Antonio, Texas
JOHN "MIKE" MEAD ('71) Coloma, Michigan
MRS. ELIZABETH VAKEY Pipecreek, Texas
MR. JIM BLUHM San Antonio, Texas
MIKE DUNAGAN (75) Killeen, Texas
RHONDA SCHMALZ ('76) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
JERRY GILES ('70) Location unknown at this time
 GEORGE RUIZ ('69) San Antonio, Texas
PEGGY CARNAHAN (Teacher) San Antonio, Texas
DONNA FROATS ('76) Waco, Texas
NORMAN FROATS ('81) San Antonio, Texas
CINDY SALINAS ('75) Houston, Texas
FRED BUTLER ('70) Austin, Texas
RONNIE AVENDANO ('75) Mission, Texas
VICKI ROUNSAVILLE ('72) San Antonio, Texas
JOHN FOSTER ('71) Rio Rancho, New Mexico
CHARLOTTE GLISSON ('70) Floresville, Texas
SUSAN SOUTHERLAND ('73) Virgina Beach, Virginia
MICHELLE NELSON ('72) San Antonio, Texas
PAUL LINDY ('70) San Antonio, Texas
ROBERT EVERETT ('70) Location Unknown
DENISE RUPP ('70) San Antonio, Texas
LINDA VARELA ('74) San Antonio, Texas
JIMMY KIDDER ('71) San Antonio, Texas
BILLY SMITH ('71) Arlington, Texas
CHRISTINA SHOUSE ('75) San Antonio, Texas
SHERRY FOSTER ('7?) Dallas, Texas
MIKE WALTERS ('71) San Antonio, Texas
DANNY TREVINO ('70) San Antonio, Texas
SHEREE LENHART ('75) San Antonio, Texas
DAVID TONEY ('72)  Edgewood, Maryland
MARY HUNTER ('72) Corpus Christi, Texas
MAXINE McCULLOUGH ('72) San Antonio, Texas
DAVID LAMOUREUX ('73) San Antonio, Texas
MARTHA SMITH ('74) San Antonio, Texas
STAN GILES ('72) Freeport, Illinois
MR. GEORGE LYNN BRITTON San Antonio, Texas
MICHAEL BROWN ('72) San Antonio, Texas
MAUREEN DEAETT ('72) San Antonio, Texas
DEBBIE HILBRICH ('74) Houston, Texas

MUSTANGS BUST LOOSE FROM THE CORRAL!
E-mail to the following Mustangs came back. That means that their e-mail addresses have changed without telling me and I have dropped them from my mailing list (not from the e-mail listing on the web site, though). If, anyone has new e-mail addresses for the following people, let me know ASAP: GERALD GILES ('70), CINDY URBACH ('72), RICHARD OLSEN ('70) -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), LaVERNE SHIPMAN ('70), KATHY O'DAY ('70), CLEVE HUGHES ('69),  ARCHIE RHINES ('71, CORA BRANDT ('71), STEVE BEAVERS ('72), CLEVE HUGHES ('69),

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

JANET LYN VAUGHAN ('84) died in a motorcycle accident on June 4th. She was 38. She lived in Garland, TX and formerly lived in Pearsall. Lyn was born August 21, 1966, and was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Garland; P.A.D.I. Diving Society; NRA; and a 2004 Honors Graduate from Texas A&M with a degree in Construction Science. Lyn worked as a project manager for KWA Associates on McKinnon Avenue in Dallas. She is survived by her mother, Barbara Carol Wood of Garland; father and step-mother, Roy W. and Pat Vaughan of Pearsall; former husband GARY SMITH ('77) was also a John Jay High School graduate. He lives in Dallas. They are the loving parents of two children, Alex Vaughan Smith (13) and Claire Alysse Smith (10) of Garland. She is also survived by brothers Roy W. Vaughan Jr. of Las Vegas, Nevada and Douglass Derby of Iraq; and two sisters, Laura Davis of El Paso and Allison Hicks of Garland. Services were held on Thursday, June 9th in the First United Methodist Church of Pearsall with interment in The Pearsall Cemetery. A Memorial Service is also scheduled for Monday, June 13th in The First United Methodist Church of Garland, with time to be announced later. Arrangements under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home at 608 East Trinity Pearsall, TX 78061 (830) 344-3361. She will be missed by all that knew and loved her. My thanks to AUDREY TARTE ('76) for bringing this to my attention. (6/9/05)

The mother of our classmate, TONY SORIA ('70) passed away this past week (April 25-29, 2005). Tony was in town and came to the GUYS meeting at Pizza Hut. Sorry, but I don't have any details on his mom's passing or what the funeral arrangements were. I couldn't find anything in the newspaper. Our condolences and prayers to Tony and his family in thier time of sorrow. He hopes to make it to the reunion in July. He lives in California. (5/1/05)

PAUL EDWARD WEBB (1972?) in San Antonio, Texas, died on April 20, 2005. He was formerly married to classmate BECKY WILLIS (??). Paul was born on July 27, 1954 in St. John's New Foundland, Canada. He spent 25 years working with the Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local Union #76 of the US and Canada where the last 4 years he was treasurer of the organization. Paul was a very generous man, who always put other peoples needs before his own. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him. Paul was preceded in death by his father, James E. Webb. He is survived by his mother, Paula Webb; daughter, Amy Webb; sons, Marty Webb of Los Angeles, California and Willis Webb of Gatesville, TX; sisters, Dianne Kober and husband, Jim of Junction, CO and Rosemary Jeter and husband, Rick of Bandera, TX; brother, Mark Webb and wife Felice of San Antonio, TX; grandchildren, Lisette Lily Enriquez; and numerous nieces and nephews. SERVICES A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2005 at 3:00 PM at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North with Pastor Greg Weyrauch officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 8415 Wurzbach Rd., San Antonio, TX 78229. (4/23/05)

Lt. Col. Hugh Foster, the father of classmates RENITA FOSTER ('71), LILA FOSTER (74), and SHERRY FOSTER (7?) died on Wednesday, April 6th. A memorial service was held at the Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, 725 Cedarhurst, in Valley Hi, today, Friday, April 8, 2005 at 3:00 p.m. Col Foster was patriot of the United States Navy and Air Force for 33 years, made his last flight, April 6, 2005. "Hugh Baby" was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina on March 19, 1927 to Hugh and Edith Foster. Hugh is survived by his wife of 54 years, Renita Brown Foster, daughters Renita and husband, Carl Menyhert, Lila and husband, David Oefinger, and Sherry and husband, Scott Devine. Grandchildren include Bradley and Sherry Menyhert, Tara Oefinger, Meredith, Nolan and Hugh Devine. A veteran of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, Hugh's military decorations include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal. The family would like to acknowledge with deep appreciation the professional, medical and support staff at Wilford Hall Medical Center at Lackland AFB.  In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Fallen Patriot Fund, c/o Bank of America Private Bank, TX1-492-19-09, P.O. Box 832409, Dallas, TX 75283-2409. This organization accepts donations to send to families of those who fell in combat.---I was able to leave work early and attend the memorial service. Renita, Lila and Sherry were there. Renita told me that her father had fallen at home and broken his neck. While in the hospital, he suffered a cardiac arrest which led to his passing. He will be buried in Dallas. Our prayers, sympathies and best wishes to the Foster family in their time of sorrow. (4/7/05)
RICHARD "RICK" MAHLER, ('71) a John Jay High School classmate, died this morning, Wednesday, March 2, 2005, of a heart attack at his home in Tequesta, Florida. I received a phone call at my office, this morning, from classmate DOTTIE WEBBER ('71) a close family friend of the Mahler's, and I then was able to speak with Rick's younger brother, STEVE MAHLER.  I am still shocked and can't believe this. All three television stations reported the story on their 5:00, 6:00, and 10:00 p.m. newscasts with video of Rick. He was a wonderful person and we stayed in touch with one another over the years. He had a generous and brave spirit and is already so greatly missed. We send our prayers and condolences to his wife, Shreryl and their five children. (3/2/05)

While funeral plans are pending, his brother MICKEY MAHLER ('70) can be emailed by clicking on his name for the link. Cards and letters can be mailed to Rick's family at: 17114 S.E. Kerry, Tequesta, FL 33469. I am assuming that Rick's wife Sheryl, has access to his email address and emails can be sent to: mahlerrrtts@aol.com

Here is the news story that appeared on the San Antonio Express-News website, this afternoon, March 2, 2005...
Rick Mahler, a star pitcher at Jay High School and Trinity University who played in the major leagues for 13 years, died early today of an apparent heart attack at his home in Florida. Mahler pitched for the Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds and Montreal Expos from 1979-91. He was 96-111 with a 3.99 earned-run average while playing on just two teams that reached the postseason. At the time of his death, Mahler was in his third season as a coach in the New York Mets farm system. He also had managed the Arkansas Travelers of the Texas League and worked as a pitching coach in Class A and Triple-A.

“Nobody ever had a bad thing to say about Rick, and you can’t say that about many guys," said Jim Acker, a teammate of Mahler's with the Braves.

Al LaMacchia, the San Antonio scout who signed both Rick Mahler and his older brother Mickey, said Rick had the ability to be a major-league pitching coach someday. "Guys like him have to learn how to pitch to survive, because he didn't throw that hard," LaMacchia said. "He was a good pitching coach. I thought he would wind up with a big-league club someday."

Rick Mahler was 51. He lived in Tequesta, Fla., with his wife, Sheryl, and four of their five children. His oldest son, Ricky, is a sophomore pitcher at the University of the Incarnate Word, here in San Antonio.



ROBERT W. 'BILL' KLUMB ('72), a John Jay High School classmate, passed away on Monday, February 28, 2005, at the age of 51, here in San Antonio, after battling a lengthy illness. Bill loved his family and his girls were his life. He lived every day to the fullest and he and his BBQ will be truly missed by all who knew him. Survivors include his wife of 18 years, Linda; daughters, April Ortiz, Andrea Askren, and Amanda Thornhill; his mother, Gladys Huslage; father, Hank Klumb and his wife, Joanie; and Bill's siblings, Kathryn Klumb Pena, Steve Klumb, Tom Klumb, and Jason Klumb; grandchildren, P.J., Bianca, and Dante; and a host of other loving family members and friends. The family will receive friends on Friday, March 4, 2005 from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 P.M. followed by a celebration of his life at 1:00 P.M. at Castle Ridge Mortuary, 8008 Military Drive West. (210-645-6000) with the Rev. Bill Shockley officiating. Service with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Vitas Hospice Charitable Fund, 5430 Fredericksburg Rd., Suite 200, San Antonio, Texas 78229. Services under the direction of the Castle Ridge Mortuary. On behalf of his fellow Mustangs, we send our sympathies to the family in their time of sorrow. God bless each of them. (3/2/05)

 Mrs. Bess Butler (84), the mother of our classmate FRED BUTLER ('70) died on February 7, 2005. She was living in Austin, near Fred, at the time of her passing. The funeral services and burial were held in her home state of Arkansas. On behalf of all his former classmates and fellow Mustangs we send him our prayers and best wishes in this time of sorrow. Fred has received many emails from classmates and he really appreciates hearing from so many people. (2/15/05)

Mr. Hoyt B. Pittman, age 73, the father of our classmate DEBBIE PITTMAN ('73), passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, February 11, 2005. I extend our sincere and heartfelt sympathies to Debbie and all her family. (2/15/05)

Mrs. Mary Stephens, mother of classmate JEFF CARRUTHERS ('72) passed away on January 28, 2005 at the Boomtown Casino in New Orleans, Louisiana. Our prayers and warm thoughts are with Jeff and all his family in their time of loss and sorrow. (2/15/05)

Mrs. Edie Lamoureaux, the mother of our classmates David Lamoureaux ('74) and Terry Lamoureaux ('77), died on Friday, January 7,2005.  David is married to John Jay grad Martha Smith ('75) and Terry is married to a Jay grad Mike Tarte ('75).  Edie's passing is a tremendous loss for all who knew and loved her. Those needing more information can e-mail: AUDREY TARTE ('76) by clicking on her name. Our prayers and sympathies to the families. (1/9/05)
"SHINDIG V"
THE REUNION PARTY JULY 15 & 16, 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.
ANYONE WHO ATTENDED JJHS FROM 1967-1979 IS INVITED!!!

Cost: $55 SINGLE ..... $100 COUPLE  ... TEACHERS & SPOUSES ARE FREE!! (Contact Dennis)
Reservation DEADLINE: Friday, July 1, 2005 (You can start sending in your check, NOW!)

Make your check payable to: JOHN JAY REUNION
Mail your check  ONLY to: Danny Padron, 14010 Syracuse, San Antonio, Texas 78249-1727

The reunion will consist of:
(1) FRIDAY, JULY 15th, a social in the John Jay HS cafeteria from 6:00-9:00PM. Family invited. Chips, dips, cake, finger sandwiches, and sodas will be served. Tours of the school will be conducted throughout the evening. The John Jay booster club will be on hand to sell official John Jay stuff like decals, hats, shirts, blankets, and all sorts of stuff! CAROL LIPSEY is in charge of the evening refreshments and will need plenty of help. If anyone would like to volunteer, please contact Carol by e-mail, as soon as possible. Just click here: I WANT TO HELP ON FRIDAY NIGHT!

(2) FRIDAY, JULY 15th, after the social at the school, we will have a "get together" at PIZZA HUT, S.W. Loop 410 @ Marbach Road from 9:00PM-12:00Midnight . Family invited. Everyone is responsible for their own food and drinks at Pizza Hut. They WILL be giving us special discounts!  UPDATE: Pizza Hut will charge us just $6.00 per person for all the pizza and soft drinks you can handle!!!! This will be great!!!

(3) SATURDAY, JULY 16th, dinner and dance at Pedrotti's North Wind Ranch, in the SHOOTING STAR PAVILION, 7:00PM-12:00AM. Grads & spouses/significant other only. (No children, please.) Pedrotti's is 1/4 mile outside Loop 1604 on Hausman Road, on the right-hand side. As you enter the compound, be sure sure to keep to the right. When you come to a fork in the entrance road keep heading to the right. Watch out for the speed bumps. They are hard to see but VERY effective!  There's plenty of free parking. Enter the building through the SALOON entrance.

MENU: Bar-B-Q brisket, sliced Bar-B-Q chicken breast, Bar-B-Q sausage, pinto beans, potato salad, tossed salad, 3-salad dressing, pico de gallo, guacamole, tortillas, rolls, iced tea and coffee. A dessert to be determined. The all-you-can-eat buffet will be served from 8:30-10:30PM.

CASH BAR: A cash bar will be open. Each person is responsible for purchasing their own beer, mixed drinks, wine, etc.

DRESS CODE: Casual wear is fine. Wear something you'd wear to church. How's that? Just keep it neat, that's all we're asking.

MUSIC: is being provided by GLENN BURCHARD (69) who is making awesome CD's of all our favorite music from those long gone days!

REUNION PHOTO: A panoramic reunion group photo will be taken PROMPTLY at 8:00 PM by Goldbeck, the same people that took our senior class photos over 30 years ago. Each person is responsible for purchasing and paying for their copy of the photo, if they want one.

Throughout the evening, we will have a bunch of laughs and John Jay trivia challenges for great prizes.

Please remember--- we are doing this by E-MAIL and PHONE CALLS ONLY. We need your help in getting the word out to everyone. No printed newsletter will be mailed. In the next week or so, I will e-mail you and give you a list of people we once had contact with but have somehow lost. Please look it over and if you know how to contact them, get in touch with me ASAP!

Your contacts for reunion information are (it doesn't matter who ya' contact):

Danny Padron (1969), 14010 Syracuse, San Antonio, Texas 78249-1727  Phone: (210) 699-0983

Dennis DuPriest (1970), 7439 Lancewood Lane, San Antonio, Texas 78227-1001  Phone: (210) 674-6767

Linda (DuPriest) Padron (1971), 9019 Levelland, San Antonio, Texas 78251-2909  Phone: (210) 680-9019

Feel free to e-mail me your questions. I am more than happy to answer them. So, be sure to always check your e-mail on a consistent basis for the latest reunion information. Get ready folks, this is gonna be GROOVY TO THE MAX!

OK, there ya have it! Let's get on the ball and make SHINDIG V, the best ever!!!

CURRENT CLASSMATE NEWS

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JUNE 2005
MARK NORMAN ('71) in Louisville, Kentucky, mugged me this past week. He sent me a beautiful INDIANAPOLIS 500 coffee mug for my collection. He has sent me several mugs over the years. Mark's has some medical situations, as of late, and we wish him all the best. In fact, from Captain Gus & Mortimer here's a "BA-DING-BING"  to make you feel better Mark! (6/26/05)

MS. YVETTE FINDER, our former French teacher at Jay and who still lives in San Antonio, tells me she will be back in France for the wedding of one of her nieces. She won't be bale to attend the reunion, but promise to be at the next one. (Gee, I didn't have the heart to tell her that this is pretty much my swan song for reunions.) This past week I got reunion confirmations from MRS. ELIZABETH VAKEY, MRS. WALTER CHESSHIR, and MR. LYNN BRITTON. I should hear from MR. PHIL GUERRA, tomorrow. (6/26/05)

MASON WRIGHT ('70) in Corpus Christi, Texas is up and walking, in fact riding his Harley, after hip replacement surgery. I guess we've reached that "elderly" point in our lives, now that classmates are getting hip replacements! Keep getting better, Mason. (6/25/05)

RICK SANDOVAL ('71) in San Antonio, Texas heads back to IRAQ for a second tour of duty, in just a few days. He had even made and paid for his reunion reservations! His wife will attend in his place to take pictures to send to Rick in QATAR. Oh, I forgot to previouslt mention that Rick had brought arab head-dresses for all the GUYs back in May. Funny thing about them... both the ones Bob gave me and the one Rick gave me have tags on them that say, MADE IN CHINA. Can ya' beleive that!!! Hey, our prayers and best wishes go out to Rick and Bob as they return to serve in the Middle East. (6/25/05)

BOB FRASIER ('72) in Cairo, Egypt has a surprise! I no sooner write the information below, about celebrating the birth of his Nathan Willis7th grandchild that Bob tells me his 7th gradnchild was recently born. He emails... "Dear Dennis, I'm not too sure if I should announce this or not, but my 7th grandchild was born on June 1st- Kelsey Rianne @ 11:56 p.m. She was 7lbs, 15oz, and 20.25 inches long. Brown hair, gray eyes, beautiful baby!" ---Well, Grandpa Bob, we send you our congratulations and be sure to give the mother all the best from the Mighty Mustangs! (6/9/05)

NATHAN WILLIS ('70) in San Antonio, Texas is a grandpa for the 7th time! He writes... "Dear Dennis, my son and his wife (Jason and Susie (Rodriguez) both of  John Jay "Class of 2001" gave my wife and I yet another grandchild at 12:35 AM, May 26th.  A boy- 8 lb 7.5 oz at 19.5 inches long, with a very healthy set of lungs!" Way to go, Nathan. Makes me wonder if any of our classmates are great-grandparents yet?? (6/3/05)

KIM WYATT ('71) in Somerset, Texas has been hired as a teacher at Somerset ISD where I work!! She and I spent a lot of time talking this past Friday catching up on stuff. Kim will be working at Somerest Elementary School, where her boss and principal is STEVE AYERS a 1979 graduate of Jay!!!!!! To top it all off, our former principal, TERRY McGUIRE did his student teaching at Somerset ISD and even married a Somerset graduate!!! Who woulda' thunk it! (6/3/05)

MAY 2005
KATHI BROWN ('70) in San Antonio, Texas sent me an exciting email, today... "Hello, Dennis- WE ARE BACK! We're back in San Antonio FOR GOOD!  Yes, we arrived last Saturday (5/21/05) and this will be my very last duty station making 30 years in the United States Navy, as of August 2009. My husband, Tom and I are staying with my Dad in Leon Valley for now.  We're looking for a house for sale or rent in the Northern area closer to Ft. Sam Houston WITH AN IN-GROUND POOL and about 2500-3000 square feet, approximately 10-15 years old.  If you know of anyone that can help... great!  Would prefer to go through owner and not real estate personnel if at all possible. Hey, I have a new contact for you.  Before leaving Millington (MEMPHIS), Tennesse, last week, I ran into MICHAEL KIDDER, a 1971 John Jay Graduate.  He went to JJHS his last two years. I told him about this website. Tom and I have already paid our SHINDIG reservations and are standing by for updated information.  Looking forward to the reunion." ---Kathi, it's always great to hear from you and glad to have ya back in the Alamo City. You'll have to come to the GUYS meetings!! Thanks for Michael Kidder's email address I will add it to my list immediately. Can't wait to see ya in July! (5/25/05)

LINDA STEWART ('73) Fayetteville, North Carolina, tells me about discovering a fellow Mustangs! Here's her email to me... "Dennis, I just had to drop a line and let you know that no matter how far from Jay you get, you run into mustangs everywhere.  I have been working for Army Air Force Exchange Services (AAFES) for over two years now.  My first management assignment after training sent me to Fayetteville, NC (Ft Bragg/Pope AFB) home to 82nd Airborne and Army Special Forces.  There are two main store PX's at Bragg since the base is so big and the when I arrived the other store manager was a woman name Shelley Millum.  After my first year here she was promoted to a high visibility BX in DC, Andrews AFB.  Last week, a manager friend of mine and I went to Washington DC for fun and sight seeing and stopped by to see Shelley since my friend had worked for her.  During a conversation, Shelley mentioned that her mother lived in San Antonio. I ask her how come and she proceeded to tell me she grew up there and went to Anson Jones MS and John Jay HS.  Small world, of course she is a youngster (Class of 84) but, only one Mustang can go accoss the country to run into another Mustang.  Take care I just thought it was an interesting antedote.  On another subject, my brother LEWIS STEWART ('71) and his wife ALICE (JONES) STEWART ('72) just moved to Argentina for his job with Exxon-Mobil." ---Linda, it's great to hear that story of a lost Mustang. So cool! I don't have an email address for your brother Lewis. Send it to me if you have it. All the best to you and yours! (5/22/05)

CECILIA YOUNG in Ann Arbor, Michigan is the sister of a 1971 classmate. Cecilia went to John Marshall H.S. Her sister recently told her about this website and she writes to me... "Hi, Dennis.  Although I am currently living in Ann Arbor, Michigan, I grew up in San Antonio.  I have an 8-year-old son and I had seen some Popeye DVDs while out shopping. I purchased one for my kids and they loved it! I watched it with them, and we laughed out loud together.  Who knew Popeye had the power to bring a family together like that.  I explained to them all about Captain Gus and how the show was set up.  They laughed at "Ba-Ding-Bing," but it really was a magical word.  My sister sent me to your website...turns out she is a Jay alum and knows you.  I, too, went to the rival school, John Marshall High School. Just as well, as maroon looks better on me than blue.  (LOL)  I graduated in 1979.  Thanks for your Cap'n Gus page--it really made me smile. Have a great day!"  ---Cecilia, it's great to hear from you and please know that we Mustangs forgive you for going to Marshall. LOL Glad I could rekindle memories of the Captain Gus Show. It was a highlight of my life. Stay in touch and if you want to attend the SHINDIG, you're more than welcome to attend! (5/18/05)

DAVID TONEY ('72) Edgewood, Maryland sent in a great e-mail. We don't know one another, but I always enjoy making news friends. He writes.."Good afternoon Dennis, I really like what you are doing here, on the wesbite. I have been to the site several times- the first is when I saw that Rick Mahler had passed away. The day before it happened, some guys up here in Maryland were sitting around drinking a beer and talking about people in there high school days that were athletes. It was a real blow to me to read about Rick and when I called home to Texas and they said it was all over the news.  It must have missed the newscasts in Maryland. Anyway, could you add my email address to your list for 1972, it sure would be interesting to hear from some of the folks in my class. Recently, since I retired from the Army, I have tried to get home at least once a year. The most recent was in April to drive a car down for my sister. My job did have me in and out of San Antonio early on in the mid 90’s and early 2000’s with Homeland Security. I also didn’t know that so many people out of Jay lived out this way or traveled this far east. Wel,l I guess I’ll be a regular follower of the site from now on. I just emailed '72 classmate, EVAN RALPH and told him we must keep In contact with the people we grew up with because we are not getting any younger. God Bless You and America." ---David, thanks for the kind words about my website. I am adding you to my email list and to the website directories. Stay in touch and hope to meet you at the SHINDIG. (5/17/05)

APRIL 2005
KAREN KISLING ('72) Cantonsville, Maryland, sent me an email for the first time ever and it's good to hear from her. Karen has a good point to makes and I am sharing what she wrote... "Hey, Dennis, Thanks for all your efforts in organizing this grand event.  I'd like to put a plug in to all the MUSTANGS, especially those who still live in the San Antonio area, who are thinking, why bother coming?  I'll tell you why: many folks would like to see you, some of us NEVER see anyone from Jay High School and we are coming back especially to catch up with old friends.  We want to see as many of them as possible! I now live in a very stable neighborhood, where people grow up, marry, and raise their families within the same community.  Several of my friends have known each other since high school or earlier.  And many don't bother to go to reunions because they figure they encounter one another at the grocery store, PTA, sports field, church, whatever.  Local MUSTANGS may be thinking the same way. But the situation is far different for those of us who've moved away.  Speaking as someone who hasn't set foot in Texas since the week after I graduated, it isn't as if I randomly encounter old high school friends during the course of my daily life.  I and others who don't still live in San Antonio or even in Texas are making significant efforts to attend the reunion, and are coming particularly to reconnect with as many high school friends as possible.  So, to the MUSTANGS who don't plan to come to Shindig V, I'd like to say....I wish you would.  There will certainly be old friends there who'd be delighted see you, and this is their only chance to do so.  Looking forward to seeing many of you this July!" ---Karen, thanks for the kind words and the great encouragement to others to attend this reunion. Can't wait to see ya'! (4/25/05)

CARL JENSEN ('70) Newport News, Virginia pulled a fast one on me! Because of him, I got MUGGED by an orphan in El Salvador! It's true, classmate and good friend is a sponsor of a group called, "Orphan Helpers" which aids orphanages in three South American countries. The children receive care, love and an education. As part of their actitivites, they learn arts and crafts and Carl sent me an absolutely beautiful handmade coffee mug that one of the orphans made! It is HUGE and a super work of art. This is a very treasured addition to my collection. I will drink my ceremonial one cup of coffee from it and add it to my collection in an honored place. Carl thanks for your friendship and kindness these many, many years. (4/17/05)

MASON WRIGHT ('70) Corpus Christi, Texas has had hip replacement surgery. His wife, Linda send an email to me... "Hi, Dennis. I just wanted to let you know that Mason has a new hip and the surgery went perfect, yesterday, Tuesday, April 12. He is doing better than "great," according to his doctor and physical therapist. Mason was up early this morning and has already walked over 300 feet up and down the hospital hallways with the help of a walker. He is amazing the medical people with how fast he bounces back. I'll keep you posted on his progress." ---Linda, be sure to give Mason our best wishes for a speedy recovery and tell him we'll miss him at the GUYS meetings. Oh! If he needs someone to ride his Harley while he's recovering, just let me know. I'll be glad to do that for him!! (4/13/05)

MARCH 2005
LORI McDERMOTT ('70) in Ashburn Virgina has made her way back to the Mustang Corral! "Dennis, I planned to spend a few minutes checking Classmates.com for details on my class reunion, but then decided to see if I could find anyone I knew on the John Jay site.  That was HOURS ago because I found out about your web site there! What memories! I only attended John Jay in the inaugural year as a freshman before moving to Georgia, where I graduated in the summer of 1970 (I've always said I was the Class of 70.5 and was #1 in my class of one).  I've never attended a class reunion because I really didn't "fit" in either year, but this year several classes are meeting together. Not sure if I can find a way to be at the John Jay reunion or if I should since I only attended that one year. However, by reading your site, I found that STEPHEN MAYS ('70) lives in the same town as I do (Ashburn, Virginia); that the sight of the 1969 Prom (which I attended with Kevin Kelley) had burned; a message from JOANI VEALE ('73), whose Dad was the Pastor of the Church attended; and Mr. DuBose, my favorite teacher, e-mail address! Thank YOU for all your hard work!  I have the site bookmarked, and I will be back often! A Mustang for one short year in 1967-68. Lori" ---Hey, it's great to have you back with us. You will ALWAYS be a Mustang! I'm glad you enjoy my website and I hope you can make the reunion. We'd all love to see you in July! (3/13/05)

A few classmate express and share their thoughts on Rick Mahler ('71) below...
GLENN WHITAKER ('72) in Orlando, Florida attended the the Sunday night service for Rick Mahler. I asked Glenn to take a few minutes to write down his thoughts for all of us. He has done a wonderful job and he will touch everyone's heart with his words. He writes... "Dear Dennis, It was a viewing at the funeral home so they had Ricky up front (open casket) with tons of beautiful flower arrangements near him. A folded American flag was on his casket and they had a baseball hat on Ricky... both seemed very fitting! Since it was a viewing, no one spoke (I'm sure they did the next day during his memorial service/funeral service which I wasn't able to attend). As people arrived at the viewing, they signed in the registry book and proceeded up front near Rick's casket and stood or kneeled and said a prayer. Many spoke to his wife, Sheryl, and their kids who sat/stood nearby to Ricky's casket. I introduced myself to Rick's wife, Sheryl, and told her how I grew up with Ricky in San Antonio as well as played Little League baseball and high school basketball with him. I also told her there were many other John Jay alumni who were sending their thoughts & prayers. She seemed to really appreciate it. I saw and spoke briefly to MICKEY MAHLER ('70). He said he had spoken to your sister, Linda, and had spoken/received emails from my brother, Warren, and others. He said he really appreciated everyone's emails and prayers. I also met and spoke to Mickey and Ricky's dad, Mr. James (Jim) Mahler. I asked him if there was going to be any sort of memorial service for Ricky in San Antonio and he said, no. Mr. Mahler told me PAUL LINDY ('70) was there but, I didn't see or talk to him. As you might expect, there were a lot of baseball players there. I think I recognized three former major leaguers...Chris Chambliss, Ken Oberkfell and Jerry Royster. It was a long 2 1/2 hour drive back home for me. As I drove, I thought about Ricky the whole time...I don't think I ever heard anyone say anything bad about Ricky Mahler. He was a class act! May he rest in peace! Your friend, Glenn." ---Thank you so much for representing all of us who were unable to attend the service, Glenn. It means so much to know that you were there for us and let the family know we really care. God bless you for your kindness. (3/8/05)

CHARLES "CHUCK" BOOTH ('71) in Del Rio, Texas offers this thought... "Dear Dennis, Wow! This is so sad! I remember coming back to San Antonio and we would play softball at a field near Medina Base Road. Both Ricky and Micky showed up on occasion and shared their love for the sport of baseball with all of us. They did this as ordinary people, people from our streets and who lived the same early lives we did. He will be truly missed." ---Chuck, you reitterate what so many have said to me about Rick's kind spirit and generosity. No matter his level of succss, he remained the person we all knew in high school. Neither money nor fame changed the heart of this remarkable individual." (3/4/05)

GLENN WHITAKER ('72) living in Orlando, Florida will be attending the visitation for Rick, this weekend. He writes... "Dear Dennis, I'm still in shock about this as I played Little League baseball (Westwood Terrace Little League) and, of course, John Jay basketball with Rick. I'm retired from the US Air Force now and I'm living in Orlando, Florida, which is about a 2.5 hour drive from Jupiter. I'm going to attend the visitation on Sunday night.  I'll pass on the regrets to his family from all the Mighty Mustangs alumni." ---Glenn, please be sure to extend my personal sympathies to the family. I have not yet called his wife, Sheryl or his brother, Mickey, as I know that they have a lot on their hands, right now. It would mean so much to me for you to do that and of course also on behalf of all his former classmates. You represent 500+ classmates who are on this "Mustang Network" of my website. Thank you so very much for this kindness. Have a safe journey, my friend. (3/4/05)

MARK LOISELLE ('70) in Trevor, Wisconsin has a brief, but deeply sincere thought... "Dennis, this was a shock, even though I hadn't seen Ricky in person in a long time. It's so very sad. I do remember seeing him on TV, pitching for the Braves, and remember feeling very proud that I knew him. Ricky was one of the good guys. He was as nice a guy as anyone would want to know. A CLASS act. We weren't real close, but I considered him a friend. He will be missed. I'm not gonna' be able to make it to the reunion. There's just too much else going on. I've already done a lot of traveling and used up a lot of vacation. I've got a new grandson, born January 14th in Raleigh, NC. His name is Aaron Alexander Garris, born to my daughter Monica and her husband, James. That makes 3 grandchildren, 1 girl and 2 boys. We recently bought 11 acres in north Texas, between Sherman and Paris, near a little town named Locust Grove. Hope to retire in 462 weeks, but who's counting. Thanks for all you do. #21 in your "Class of '70" basketball program." ---Mark, it's always good to hear from you. Congratulations on your newest grandchild. I bet you spoil the grandkids beyond belief! Thanks for your thoughts on Rick and for your kind words. All the best to you, my friend. (3/4/05)

DENISE RUPP ('70) in San Antonio, Texas is back with us after being a "lost Mustang" for a while. She writes... "Dear Dennis, Thanks for posting the info on Rick, this evening.  I knew I could count on you, as soon as, I saw the story on the news.  Hope this finds you well." ---Denise, it's good to hear from you after a long absence. I always try to do my best to stay in touch with folks and to relay the good news, along with the sad, when I have to. I hope to see you at the reunion. Best wishes to you. (3/4/05)

DOTTIE WEBBER ('71) in San Antonio, Texas has a special perspective on Rick Mahler and the family... "Dennis, Thank you for all your help today concerning Rick. His passing is quite a shock to all of us. My family grew up with the Mahler family.  We were all stationed in England together and again in San Antonio. We ended up going to school together and Rick became my brother-n-law by marriage when his brother, Mickey Mahler, married my sister, Sue Webber. We share neices and nephews! I have great memories of Rick. Thank you for contacting the Mustang Alumni and all the news media. The media did a very nice tribute to Rick.  I will keep you updated on the funeral arrangements. I signed your Guest Book and looked through the website.  What an awesome job you have done!!You and I have been friends for a long time. You are very dear to me and you have no idea the depth of gratitude I have for you.  I love you, Dennis. Thank you for always being there." ---Dottie, I am so glad I was able to help the Mahler family in my small way. It means a lot to me to have been included in dealing with this. As for you, well, I'll never forget that you were MY date and the prettiest lady at my senior prom! Love you, too! See ya at the reunion in July where we can all share wonderful memories of Rick and others that we have lost. (3/3/05)

RANDY PEARSON ('71) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania offers some memories of Rick Mahler... "Dennis, I received a call yesterday from my brother Dan's son saying Rick's name had just gone across the bottom of the screen on ESPN. In a few moments when he had a chance to read the news and told me I was floored. What a terrible loss of such a great guy. I recalled last night the years of my brothers and I playing baseball with Rick & Mickey, starting with the Westwood Terrace little league, and eventually at Jay. I can still recall the day Rick took the mound at practice in front of Coach Horlen. At that moment Rick went from a second baseman who did not make the team the year before to an eventual major league player. I was blessed living here in a MLB town in Pittsburgh to have the opportunity to see Rick, Mickey and Billy Smith as they came through town with their teams. Rick would always hook my family and I up with tickets and we would get together for lunch or dinner. Those were great days talking about old times and his experiences in the bigs. The game was never a job to Rick, he always would say he was living out his dream. The first year the Braves finally took care of Rick, with what was then a big contract, we had him over for a cookout. My mom and dad were in town and we all spent a fantastic afternoon with Rick. I will tell you as he sat talking to my dad and I on the porch of my mobile home , I thought to myself, the money has not changed this man one bit. I thought my dad would pee his pants laughing, as I had Rick tell him the Reggie Jackson story. In my game room are many pictures and baseball cards of Rick, Mickey and Billy. My favorite one of Rick is one of him and me and my late father sitting on a glider the day of that cookout. I'll be honest last night I teared up looking at it. The world and the Jay family have truly lost a great man. From all the Pearson boys( who all had trouble hitting his curve ball) May he rest in peace.Our thoughts and prayers are with all his family and Mickey." --- Randy, thanks for your thoughts. Sounds as if you had a great friendship with Rick and wonderful memories to last you a lifetime. Please be sure to give my best to your brother, Dan. (3/3/05)

ROBERTA HOLLIN ('71) here in San Antonio, expresses a brief thought about the news of Rick's passing that says so much... "Dear Dennis, I just arrived home, after having another long, horrible day at work and I read your email about the  passing away of two of our former classmates... and I am truly ashamed of myself for feeling sorry for myself and my "hard" day. What terrible, sad, sad losses....Rick and Bill." ---Roberta, don't be so hard on yourself. I understand your feelings and believe me, we've all felt the same way at times. Thank you for expressing yourself so personally. My love to you. I hope to see you at the reunion. (3/3/05)

MARGO "DOLLY" GARCIA ('71) in San Antonio writes... "Dear Dennis, You have such a big heart for all your classmates and keep in touch with so many. You were just the first person I thought of to reach out to when I heard about Rich Mahler's passing away. As for my memories of Rick, the thing about him that I thought was the most attractive was his humility. He was a quiet guy and always kind and polite. He never had that bigger than life jock mentality, you know. He just quietly always did his best. My Mom still lives in the neighborhood where the little league park that he restored is. Such a giving man. My deepest sympathies to his wife, children, brothers and his entire family. God bless you." ---Margo, your kind words and sentiments are very muc appreciated. (3/3/05)

GLENN BURCHARD ('69) in Austin, Texas sent me his thoughts on the passing of our friend, Rick Mahler... "Dear Dennis, I saw your message about Rick. What a shocker and what a loss, most of all for Rick's wife and kids, Mick, and all the family. It hits close to home for a lot of us who knew him "way back when". I remember Coach Horlen cutting Rick during baseball tryouts--I believe when I was a senior (his sophomore year). But, he came back after it, the next year, and obviously developed into a great ballplayer and man. Nobody plays thirteen years in the "bigs" without some special qualities. I used to brag about him to my kids--using him as an example of perseverence. We used to watch him from time to time on TV pitching for the Braves. He didn't have over-powering stuff but, he got the most out of what talent he had. So many guys have strong arms but are just "throwers". Rick had learned the art of 'pitching'. I always envied that--especially since he was living my dream! And he went on to teach younger players that art as well. My sons just asked me to be caretaker of their baseball card collection--there are four "Rick Mahler's" in there! I understand that John Jay has started a Hall of Fame. While I don't know what the selection criteria are, I believe a 13-year major league career should certainly qualify him-as probably our first athlete to have a 10+ year career at the highest professional level.(Mick, I hope I'm not out of line in that!) My prayers and best wishes to the Mahler family." ---Glenn, thank you for your kind words. I am certain that the family appreciates your sentiments. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with all of your fellow Mustangs. (3/2/05)

MARK NORMAN ('71) in Louisville, Kentucky writes... "Dennis, Thank you for sharing the sad news about Rick. He was a good man. You are an angel for providing the service you do. Once again, this news catches me on the road - in Seattle, heading to Portland in the wee hours." --- Mark, Thank you for your kind words and your thoughts on Rick. Travel safely, my friend. (3/2/05)

FEBRUARY 2005
FRANK TRIMM ('69) Frank is doing great after his open heart surgery! He wrote to me today... "Hey, Dennis, I want to pass on my thanks to all who had voiced concern while I was in the hospital and on my progress, since then.  I am doing well, thank you, so much. I left the hospital on the 27th of January and have been recuperating at home, since then.  My "new" heart valve is doing fine and I am going back to the cardiologist on the 16th of March, to get the word on when I can return to work. I am so very grateful for those who had me in their thoughts during these past few months. Thank you to everyone from the bottom of my "fixed" heart!" ---Frank, you're a troopper! Hang in there and don't be in such a rush to get back to work! Keep getting well and we'll all see you at the reunion in July! (2/26/05)

MICKEY MAHLER ('70) Sandy, Utah and RICKY MAHLER ('71) Atlanta, Georgia, as most of you know, are brothers and they both played and graduated from John Jay H.S. and  Trinity University and also played for the Atlanta Braves and even was on the team at the same time. Recently, I was doing a search on the internet and typed in Mickey's name. Pages and pages and pages came up with information on him. Then, I came across a page on which BASEBALL HALL OF FAME  player DALE MURPHY of the Atlanta Braves was telling how special a manager Bobby Cox was. This is what he wrote...

"I knew Bobby Cox was serious about being a manger when - well, I don't know if he'd want me to tell the story," Murphy said from his Utah home. But Murphy - a rookie player when Cox was a rookie manager on the 1978 Braves - decided the point of the story justified the telling. "It was a spring-training game in March 1978, Braves against the Yankees. Cox was 36 years old, the newest and youngest manager in the big leagues.