DECEMBER 2006

SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT: Every now and then someone in the Class of 1972 reminds me that they were the first 4-year graduating class at John Jay HS. I always hate to disappoint them with the truth, but the Class of 1971 was the FIRST 4-year graduating class. John Jay HS opened in September 1967 with only three (3) levels of classes: JUNIORS (11th graders, who would become the graduating Class of 1969); SOPHOMORES (10th graders, who would become the graduating Class of 1970); and FRESHMEN (9th graders, who would become the graduating Class of 1971). There wasn't a SENIOR class that first year to allow the Seniors from Holmes and Marshall to graduate from the schools they had attended for three years. So, reset your memories-- '69ers went to JJHS for two years and graduated; '70ers went to JJHS for three years and graduated; and '71ers attended JJHS for four years and graduated. And that's a fact, Jack!

NORTHSIDE ISD SEEKS ARTIFACTS FOR DISTRICT MUSEUM Story by Bridget Smith of KENS 5 Eyewitness News (Incidently, Bridget was a journalism student of mine at St. Gerard Catholic High School were I taught journalism and drama for a few years.  --Dennis) The Northside Independent School District wants its history, and officials hope you can help them get it. The district's museum association is on a mission to start a collection of old memories to last for years to come. Ed Rawlinson, a former NISD superintendent and a member of the museum project says he has many photos to show off especially from the mid-1980s, when the big news was that Northside ISD was launching a new center for learning — Health Careers High School. Since Northside ISD was formed in the 1950s, many things have been collected.Northside High School is now Marshall High School. It's understandable why the district's museum association wants to put everything on display. There are tons of photos, records of old meetings and items from people who wore many hats. So the association is looking for mementos, pictures, old maps or anything else you may have. Officials say every item counts. "We have a picture on the wall here that shows the first graduating class of Northside High School," Rawlinson said. "We had boxes and boxes of artifacts, but no real place to display those. We're a community. Just like a city or town, I think that has a history that's important to them, or should be important to them, it's important to us as a school district. The schools that existed back in the 1920s, '30s, '40s, '50s ... we'd really like to ask them to contact us. We're looking for) any pictures of artifacts people have, particularly back to that time." If you can help the Northside Independent School District's Museum Association with history from any of their schools, contact the museum at (210) 397-8599.

NOVEMBER 2006

INEZ ISRAEL ('70) is living back here in San Antonio after decades in California. I got to talk to her briefly tonight. I saw that she had signed the GUEST BOOK and immediately contacted her. She's doing great and promises to see everyone at the SHINDIG VI Reunion next July! (11/20/06)

DIANA GARCIA ('70) in San Antonio, Texas, and I used to hang out a lot, a few years back. In fact, about 15 years ago. We'd go to the movies, Taco Cabana to drink margaritas, hang out at her apartment or my house and have all sorts of fun. Then, somehow, we lost touch. I don't remember how or why. It just happened, as these things sometimes do. Then, the other night, out of the clear, Diana calls me and what a friggin' surprise! She's a grandma with two grandkids and one on the way. Diana has a son and daughter and I can't remember what she told me about who has which kids. We spent an hour on the phone laughing and talkinmg about the good old days. She stay in touch with KAREN MOORE ('70) in Fairfax, Virginia (or maybe it's Falls Church, VA, I can't remember.) Anyway, she's gonna get Karen's e-mail for me to add to my list. I rold her all about nest year's SHINDIG VI and she's gonna do her best to be there and to get karen to come, too. It's so wonderful to be back i touch with her after all these many years. (11/2/06)

OCTOBER 2006
MRS. YVETTE FINDER (Original John Jay HS Teacher) in Boerne, Texas, has lived a lot of life in the past six months. Let me explain... a little over six months ago, Mrs. Finder, our original French teacher at John Jay HS, told me that she had lung cancer. A tumor on her lungs had attached itself onto her trachea and cancer was also found in lymph nodes. Exploratory surgery determined that the tumor could not be surgically removed. Mrs. Finder asked that I not mentioned it to any classmates and I honored her wishes. She underwent seven weeks of extensive chemotherapy and radiation treatments, as well as, numerous medications. It was a very rough time for her, but this woman was determined to KICK CANCER'S BUTT!

Fast forward to tonight, (Tuesday, 10/10/06), as Mrs. Finder called me and my heart jumped for joy! I had not heard from her for about five months and was getting worried about her. According to her latest medical tests, she has been cancer free for six months! She still has coughing spells which makes it difficult for her to talk, sometimes. She sounds strong and her determination is remarkable. She's now well enough that she's planning on a ski trip to Sun Valley with her son, Steve and family. She also promised to be at next year's SHINDIG VI reunion! She told me she was a smoker for many years and on top of that has had asthma all her life. She urges anyone who smokes to please stop so you don't have to face what she has. Mrs. Finder knows how difficult it is to stop, but she says she stopped smoking years ago and still lung cancer raised it ugly head in her life. We had a great conversation tonight and she said it was ok to share her information, now. She says her doctor told her the hallmark of her recovery will be in another six months. Mrs. Finder says she knows that the cancer could reoccur, but she is determined to live every day and moment as wonderfully as she can. This is one gal that is a role model for all of us in living our lives. You take what life deals you and you deal with it. You make up your mind to take on every challenge head-on and give it all you got.

If classmates would like to get in touch with her, the phone number is: (210) 698-3138. Her home address is: 9014 Cedar Trail, Boerne, TX 78006. If you want to e-mail her, please know that her computer is acting up, so she'll write you back when it works. The e-mail address is: yvettefinder@aol.com Oh, by the way, I spoke with Coach Jerry Mason, last week, and he's doing GREAT. He kicked cancer's butt, too! He promises he'll be at the reunion, next year, as well. He's still recovering and taking things easy. Coach sounds strong and is getting better every day, Best wishes for continued good health for both of them and my sincere wishes for good health to all the MUSTANG ALUMNI. (10/10/06)

Note: In the span of two days, two sets of siblings have been tracked down-- the Thetford sisters: Willena & Joann and the Colvard siblings: Michael and Linda. It's great to have them back in the MUSTANG CORRAL.
WILLENA THETFORD ('70) in Anderson, Indiana e-mailed me after her sister had found this website and I wrote to her saying I needed to hear from "Willie". She tells her and Willie writes... "Dear Dennis, my sister, JoAnn, told me that you were looking for me. I only live about 10 min. from her. I moved up from Orlando, Florida to Anderson, Indiana. about 2 years ago. I’m planning on getting out of here and moving back to Texas. This Mustang needs to come home and put out to pasture!! LOL  Maybe the timing will be right when we have our SHINDIG VI reunion. That would be great!! I work as a Para-educator (Special Education Teacher). I did work for Northside ID when I was at Jay. That would be wild if I could get my job back after all these years. I'll check it out. I really miss everyone. The last reunion was when VICTOR FAGAN (‘70) owned Farmer’s Daughter. My gosh, Dennis, so much has happened since then hasn't it? I have been divorced for 10 years, now. I really enjoyed Orlando but couldn't stand all the hurricanes. I worked for Universal Orlando Resorts as a resort bus driver for the resort hotels there at the theme park. Then 9-11 happened and that killed the tourism in Disney, Sea World and Universal Studios. All of us were out of a job. I received a student loan and went to Central Florida College in nursing. I think I was the oldest student on campus. LOL  Anyway, the war in Iraq came and hurricanes, hurricanes, and hurricanes. I let my sisters talk me into moving here to Indiana, instead of Texas. Well, I have had enough of Anderson, Indiana, thank you. Time to move along little doggie. LOL  Get 'em up, move ‘em out !!   Texas or Bust!!!!! I did learn to say "WAZ UP" in 28 different languages when I was a resort bus driver. Scooby Doo and I were tight!! LOL Gotta to go for now. Write me back when you get a chance, OK?  Tell Carol Lipsey I said "Hi." Dennise have you found ELAINE DAVIS ('70), DENISE COLLIER ('70) or DENISE POLLARD ('70)? Well, I’m headed back to your website to catch up on all my fellow '70 Mustang classmates.  Thanks Dennis, for all of your hard work and dedication in keeping us together. That is a lot of LOVE and caring. Thank YOU!" ---WOW! Great to hear from you, Willie. Geez, where do I begin the answer your questions, hmmmmm-- We haven't heard from Victor in about 10 years. I He's retired from the restaurant business and enjoys being a grandpa, these days. I haven't heard from him in about 10 years.  Elaine's e-mail address is listed on my e-mail page or just click on her name as I have linked it to her address. I have heard from either of the Denise's, but I think Collier lives in Ohio, if I recall. It'll be great for ya' to move back to Texas in time for the  reunion. Keep me posted!! (10/4/06)

JOANN THETFORD (72) Anderson, Indiana e-mailed me after finding the website and then put me in touch with her sister, Willena. She writes... "Hi Dennis!  Well, we Theford siblings- Willena, Diane, Bill and I live within 20 minutes from each other, here in Indiana, just 30 minutes north of Indianapolis. We've been here for over 30 years now, but San Antonio will always be "home". I know that Willena would love to be in touch with you, again. Hope all is well way down there in Texas. I've kept up with Jay events thru TARYN HOUGH ('72) over the years. It's wonderful that you've kept the whole school memories afloat with your news. I enjoyed reading the letterfrom Coach Mason. He was my teacher and bus driver. He may not remember me, but he would most definately remember my sister, Willena! Speaking os sisters, tell your sister, Linda, I said hello. Blessings." ---Joann, thanks for finding this website and for getting me back in touch with your sister. I hope the both of you can make it to SHINDIG VI, next year. (10/4/06)

LINDA COLVARD ('71) and her brother, MICHAEL COLVARD ('70) both live here in San Antonio. Linda e-mailed me to let me know that she's coming to the reunion, next year and she gave me Mike's e-mail address and phone. I called him and added his information to my list. Mike is an attorney. Linda says, she'd love to hear from former classmates. She's been out of touch with everyone for quite a while and would like to get reacquainted with some of the classmates before the reunion. I don't have any other information on either of them, at this point, but maybe they'll see this and send me some! Glad to have them back in the Mustang Corral. (10/4/06)

TARYN HOUGH ('72) and her husband Alan, in Norman, Oklahoma, have gone into the travel business. She writes... "Dear Dennis, We are so excited about our new adventure.  Please take a look at our new website and see how we compare to Travelocity, Orbitz, etc. When any of our fellow Mustang alumni are planning their next trip, we would appreciate an opportunity to help them.  If you have any questions, please visit our informative website at: www.brooksdreamtravel.com Happy travels!" ---Taryn, I love hearing from you. I don't do much traveling, these days, but have given thought to a train trip! Maybe I can call you on that! All the best on your new business venture. Keep us all posted on your progress. (10/3/06)

SEPTEMBER 2006
MICKEY MAHLER ('70) in Sandy, Utah, gave me a call at work, today, and told me he had called Coach Mason, who is in high spirits and really appreciates everyone who has called him in the hospital. Mickey and I talked about a whole bunch of things, as we always do, and I asked about his son JAMES and his late brother Rick's son, TIM who want to follow in their famous father's baseball footsteps. He directed me to a special web site called, PERFECT GAME USA, with information on both boys. Just click on their names, in the previous sentence here, to see the next generation of Mahler baseball stars. When you get to the webpage, look in the upper right-hand corner for the "PG Player Profile Search" box and type in the name: MAHLER. On the next page, click on the "SHOW DETAILS" link for either young man, James or Tim. There's stats and their pics, too! Wait till you see Mick's son. This kid is a giant! Meanwhile, Mickey says he's looking forward to next year's SHINDIG VI reunion in Fredericksburg. He was the star attraction for us at last year's reunion. The Mick-ster is awesome and I am so proud that he considers me a close friend. See you soon, Mick-meister! (9/19/06)

COACH JERRY MASON (former original JJHS Teacher & Coach) in San Antonio, needs our prayers and best wishes. I just received this e-mail from our former original JJHS history/government teacher, WALTER CHESSHIR who lives in Jourdanton, Texas.... "Dennis, I wanted to let you know that Coach Jerry Mason underwent surgery for colon cancer this past Thursday (9/14/06). My wife, Edith and I visited him yesterday. He seems to be improving steadly, but is still in intensive care. Jerry is in the Methodist Hospital registered under his real name- Ernest Gerald Mason. (I know some of the old Mustangs would be intrested in that bit of trivia). Dennis, my oldest daughter and son-in-law have jobs in the Devine ISD. Thank you for your interest in trying to get them jobs. I enjoyed being a guest of Renita Foster at the Northside Pillar of Success awards ceremony 10/30/06.Thanks for your input. God Bless all my former students. You are always in my thoughts and prayers." ---Mr. Chesshir, thanks so much for letting us know about Coach Mason. He has our prayers.  I spoke with Coach, this morning and he is still in Intensive Care. Understandably, he is very weak and only talked for a minute to me. I spoke to his wife, and she thanked me for calling and asked if everyone else would understand and hold their calls until tomorrow, when Coach should be moved to his own room. I expressed our best wishes and prayers to Coach and he appreciates it. The phone number for Methodist Hospital at 7700 Floyd Curl Dr. in San Antonio, is: 210-575-4141. Mustangs can call him tomorrow (Monday 9/18/06) if they woukl like to. Back to Mr. Chesshir--- Glad I could be of help to your family and I'm glad you had a great time with Renita Foster at the "PILLARS OF NORTHSIDE ISD" awards ceremony.  You and Coach Mason will always be a special part of our lives! UPDATE 9/20/06: If you want to call him at the hospital, his direct line is: 210-575-3553. He should be out of the hospital by 9/24/06. If you want to reach him at home: Coach Gerald Mason, 3208 Castledale, San Antonio, TX 78230-3902 Phone: (210) 344-3016. UPDATE 9/30/06: Today, I received a letter from Coach Jerry Mason. He doesn't have a computer or e-mail, so this is a real written letter in the U.S. mail. He refers to my website on the internet as "on the computer." To top it all off, Coach even sent in a donation for the website! Is that great or what. He's at home recovering from his recent surgery for colon cancer. We wish all the best to Coach for his continued recovery. His letter is for all MIGHTY MUSTANGS: "Dennis, Thanks for putting my situation on the computer. Because of you, I received cards and phone calls from around the world and from Texas. It was almost worth getting sick, just to hear from you John Jay kids! I have a favor to ask of you. Will you place the following note on your computer--- My operation was a success and I am on the road to a full and speedy recovery. I thank all of you for your cards, phone calls and prayers. My wife, Margaret and I hold all of you in our hearts and faith. We are looking forward to the next reunion. Take care of yourselves.  ---Coach Mason"

JEFF CARRUTHERS ('72) in San Antonio, Texas, is running for elected office in the November election. In an e-mail he writes... "Dennis, Hope you are doing better.  Since there haven't been too many messages lately, either you are doing better or you may be too ill to write.  Hope its the first one. Anyway, just wanted to mention I am running for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3, here in San Antonio. I would love to have the support of our classmates. I unsuccessfully ran for State Senate back in 2002, but I enjoy politics. Down the road, I may be interested in running for city council. Well, my best to you." ---Jeff, first, let me publicly thank you for all you did in making some great deals for us on souvenirs at last year's SHINDIG V. Everyone is still talking about the great commemorative mugs that you had custom made at a great prize for us. In fact, give me a call, I have some ideas for SHINDIG VI souvenirs for next year for our special Original Mustangs reunion. Secondly, I wish you success in the election. Anyone wanting to know more about the election can contact you by clicking on your name at the start of the article for the e-mail link. As for my health, well I'm still not out of the woods. My staph infection is really getting the best of me. It's been six weeks now and still cannot heal. Yes, it has kept me away from working on the website, but I do what I can. Thanks for asking Good luck in the election on November 7th! (9/13/06)

RENITA FOSTER ('71) Fort Monmouth, New Jersey was honored as a "Pillar of Northside Independent School District on August 30, 2006. She was accompanied by our former history/government teacher, Mr. Walter Chesshir, who came all the way from Jourdanton, Texas to be with Renita on that special night. She acknowledged him and one of the most important influences on her life. She gave me a call and wanted to visit with me, but I was so ill, I wasn't able to. In the photo to the right, are the 2006 "Pillars of Northside ISD" (posing left to right) : Karen Grace, Pillar of Fairness; Col. Renita Foster Menyhert, Pillar of Respect; Patrick Cornelius, Pillar of Trustworthiness; Michelle Ybarra, Pillar of Responsibility; Haroon Monis, Pillar of Citizenship; and Cliff Dugosh, Pillar of Caring prepare for a night of fun and reflection during the 2006 NEF Endowment Banquet and Pillar Recognition. Pillars of Character are Northside ISD school graduates who embody they character traits taught throughout Northside schools. (9/12/06)

STEVE KOLARS ('71) Bulverde, Texas stopped by my house today and picked up the four yearbooks to begin scanning them to put on the internet. Everyone is very excited and we hope to have all four yearbooks (1968-1969-1970-1971) online by Christmas. We also hope that we can set things up so they can also be purchased on DVD. My sincere thanks to Steve for taking on this challenge! I'll keep everyone posted on the project. (9/9/06)

MICHAEL DUNAGAN ('75) at Fort Hood, Texas came to San Antonio to visit his sister and he MUGGED me. He brought me an awesome polished aluminum thermal mug from PIZZA HUT in IRAQ. He specifically got it for me knowing that I have THE GUYS meetings, every month (for the past 19 years), at Pizza Hut at Marbach & Loop 410. The mug is a shiny metallic maroon in color and emblazoned with a PIZZA HUT IRAQ logo. It's great. Mike had come by my house and I didn't even have the strength to walk to my bathroom window where I often meet people who stand there in my front yard and talk to me. He kindly left the mug on the little school desk that I have on my front porch. Mike, thanks so much for the mug and it's great to know that your cancer has not reoccurred and that you're doing great. All the best to you, my friend. (9/9/06)

AUGUST 2006
GLENN BURCHARD ('69) in Austin, Texas, read Debby Van Pelt's e-mail (below) and sends in this reply..."Dennis, I just saw Debby Van Pelt's message and I think I can add some clarity to the comment about the baseball team.  (By the way, as time goes by  I recall my baseball skills back in the day as being "outstanding" and not just "pretty good".  Amazing how that happens as we age!)  Yes, our cheerleaders were at the games, and I don't recall that happening for any other teams we played.  But then our cheerleaders were no doubt much better looking, so who would want to look at the ones from the other team?  I'm sure I would have had much better control of my pitches if they hadn't been such a distraction behind there in the stands!  Right! Anyway we were the first Jay athletic team to win district in any sport.  At the 30th reunion they still had our team picture displayed prominently in the trophy case--but I didn't see it last year at the 35th.  We were undefeated in District and lost the 3rd game of a best 2 out of 3 to Austin McCallum in the playoffs. We had some studs on the team.  I'm doing this from memory, but we had Mickey Mahler, David Holmes and (myself from time to time) as the starting pitchers; Roy Hubbard was behind the plate;  Mike Gardner was at 1st; Danny Padron played 2nd; myself or future major leaguer Billy Smith covered short; David Gonzales was on 3rd;  and we had Bob Williams, Fred Butler, Jimmy Kidder/Jeff Blanchard in the outfield. We were also blessed to have the late Bill Horlen as our coach. Frank Smith, Joe Glod, JR Tatro, Paul Lindy and others were a part of it too.  It's amazing how this stuff sticks with you, but as Debby indicated, these were special times. By the way, if memory serves me, I think Mrs. Pennington's daughter was named Tracy. Take care, Buddy." ---Glenn, thanks for the update and it is always great to hear from you. See you soon, my friend! (8/25/06)

DEBBY VAN PELT ('69) is in the San Francisco, California area, I think, (If not, correct me Deb! She one of the original JJHS cheerleaders in the photos above and sent in an e-mail today... "Hi Dennis, Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.  I've been taking an evening course during the summer semester and, between that and working full time and, well, you know, life in general, I've been a bit crunched. These pics from MIMI VERBOIS ('69) (a bit further down this webpage) are great.  I have to say, it's been so long, I don't even remember them being taken or who took them.  But what a time capsule.  Were we ever that young?  Must've been -- there's your proof.  Mimi is right -- what a hoot!  Drama, yes.  High school mini-dramas seemed so serious in those days, until you had some perspective and figured out what's really serious in life and what's not.  But we had a lot of fun and, I like to think, were close at the time.  We worked hard and we did well at cheerleader camp for the school's first time out, and, more importantly, we enthusiastically supported our fledgling teams, who were also working hard to get on the San Antonio high school athletics radar.  I recall we even went to baseball games, though, traditionally, cheerleaders didn't do that that much.  But our baseball team, I believe (I could be mistaken), went all the way up to state competition, I think, our second year.  They didn't win state, but they were definitely a force to be reckoned with. You could probably check with classmate, GLENN BURCHARD ('69) -- I think he played baseball and was pretty good.  All the athletes were great guys, and my fellow teammates were superior cheerleaders (just look at that SYMMETRY and FORM) as well as superior individuals. By the way, if memory serves, I think the little girl with us in one of the pictures on the track at the football field is Mrs. Pennington's daughter, but I could be wrong. The late 'sixties were wonderful and strange and intense all at the same time, but then, what time doesn't have its moments, I guess, huh? I am glad the plant I sent you is growing and growing -- like your heart, I hope, getting better and better.  I myself have a few mementos of when we were all at Schreiner Institute that summer of '68 (sounds like a movie title), most particularly where Jane and I got our pictures taken with some of the original Houston Oilers, who were at training camp at Schreiner (the same place as a bunch of high school cheerleaders -- now I ask you, who was their travel agent?).  The pix were all on the up and up, of course, and they were the nicest guys (huge, but nice). JANE DAWSON ('69) got us into it, as I recall. We weren't supposed to talk to them when we were all in the cafeteria for our meals , but, oh well . Love, Deb ---It is so wonderful to hear from you, Deb. Thanks for your kind words and the review of this photos. I am going to try and get all five of you original cheerleaders at next year's reunion. I used to be in touch with Laverne Shipman, as she lived in the Austin area, just a few years ago. If anyone can help me find her, it would be so cool to have all of you with us next July! I hope that you're planning to come! Oh, by the way it IS  Mrs. Pennington's daughter! (8/20/06)

MRS. PEGGY CARNAHAN (An original JJHS teacher) here in San Antonio... William Michael 'Bill' Carnahan passed away on Saturday, August 19, 2006. Bill was a native San Antonian who over his lifetime served in the U.S. Navy, worked in advertising, was Production Statistical Analysis at Kelly A.F.B., a Production Controller for Turbine Support in San Antonio, and a Public School Teacher. He retired from North East I.S.D. in 1995 after twenty five years of service as a teacher and school administrator. Bill's philosophy was that all young people should be treated fairly and with respect to insure their success in life. He challenged these young people to become the best they could be and assets to society. Bill enjoyed the retirement life and all that it offered, especially his three dogs and the native birds. One of Bill's hobbies was reading both biographies and mystery books. He also had a passion for following college and professional football. He is survived by Peggy, his wife of 44 years. She was not only his life companion, but his best friend. He is also survived by his mother Geraldine Carnahan, his brother Jerry Carnahan, and sister Cheryl Imken. There will be a memorial service at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home on 6321 Bandera Road, Thursday, August 24th at 7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Our Lady of the Lake University Scholarship Foundation. Contact Peggy Prather at the development office at 210-431-4080 for information. Sunset Northwest Funeral Home. Mrs. Carnahan's email is: carnp@lake.ollusa.edu

KAY COMPTON ('71) in Mesquite, Texas is gonna' be a first time GRANDMA' in November! Congratulations!! (8/12/06)

RENITA FOSTER ('71) Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, is being honored as a "Pillar' of Northside Independent School District at a special "Black Tie" dinner event on August 30th. One of her "Guests of Honor" at her table, a teacher she will acknowledge as having a tremendous affect on her life is former JJHS history teacher WALTER CHESSHIR. Mr. Chesshir and his wife will leave for New England the very next morning to go on one of those foliage tours. He and I talk several times a year and stay in touch. Congratulations, Renita. I look forward to seeing you in a couple of weeks. (8/12/06)

DEBBY MOORE ('71) in Beaufort, South Carolina, got word of this website from PAULA SCOFIELD ('71) and now Deb is back with us Mustangs after a 35+ year absence! She writes..."Hey, Dennis--This is Debby Moore.  I used to live on Stagecoach, a few doors down from Paula Scofield, the Dickson twins, Debbie Austin, Barbara Wynkoop, etc.  Don't know if you knew my sister, Pam Moore. When I was at JJHS, I worked on the yearbook with Mrs. Anderson.  I still have all four years of yearbooks.  A bit musty, yellowed, but intact.  And you wouldn't believe some of the other stuff I saved.  I'm a pack rat, but some things I just don't want to lose. I now live in Beaufort, South Carolina--same county as Hilton Head (ie, Beaufort County).  It's a coastal community, between Savannah, Georgia and Charleston, SC.  It's a lovely little town, lots of water/marsh (over 50%), a couple of beaches.  We're suffering from great growing pains.  Should have blown up the bridges....When Hugo hit in 1989, we were the ones supposed to get the north and east side of the storm.  A bit of hiccup and it hit Charleston and northwards.  Anyway, we used to love it here--it's my husband's hometown--lots of family here. My sister, Pam is in Maine (I really don't know what she was thinking, moving where it's COLD.  Our Mother died in 2002, our Dad in 2004; I took care of both of them, and I sure miss them.  I have a beautiful and happy granddaughter, Zoe.  That's something I never thought I'd get from either of my kids, Jeremy is 28 and Elizabeth 24.  I mention Zoe because I'm firmly convinced that our grandchildren help us keep perspective when we lose our parents.  Anyway, I found Paula's e-mail on your website and e-mailed her last spring.  She came to Florida to see her daughter and my husband, Jerry, and I went down to visit for a day.  If you'd closed your eyes and just listened, it could have been 1971 again!  So, a big thanks for your website.  It's very useful!  I was glad to find her again after all of these years.  Paula told me about the re-union next year and that's why I e-mailed you. When you get the chance, would you send me info about the 2006 reunion. I'm bound and determined to get to this one!" ---Debby, It's great to hear from you after all these years. Please be sure to send me your sister's e-mail address, what city she lives in and what year she graduated from Jay. I hope you can make the reunion next year and have a BLAST with all of us! (8/12/06)

LOOK WHAT I FOUND! Classmate J. EDDIE FIELD ('71?) gave a bunch of  photos to his sister MERRY FIELD ('75), who gave them to me, last July 2005, at SHINDIG V. I just came across them tonight. Eddie took photos of various activites at JJHS. It lloks like he was the official photographer during his Senior year, I'm not sure. Many of the photos appear in the school yearbooks, so he must have been on the journalism staff at school. <<<<< This photo probably hasn't been seen in over 35+ years or so. The 1970 Cheerleaders: (left) Cindy Powers '71 (top), Shirley English '70 (bottom) at right Mary Lou Norred '71 (top) and Vicki Caffey '72 (bottom). I think my sister Linda DuPriest ('71) was with that group or maybe it was during her Senior year, I can't remember. Now, who is that little girl "mascot" next to Shirley? Is that Coach Betty Pennington's daughter? Does anyone remember? In the weeks ahead, I will try to post more of J. Eddie's photos. He has a geart on of the cast of the play "The Imaginary Invalid" along with director/drama teacher Tom Burgess. I'll try to get it online by this weekend.

MORE CHEERLEADER PICTURES!
Mary "Mimi" Verbois ('69) sent these to me after searching through her collection. 

Hubba hubba!! Schwinnnngggg!	These three pictures show the very first John Jay High School Cheerleading squad back in 1967.. In this center picture the girls are: back center: Jane Dawson ('69)...and in the front row (l to r): Shirley English ('70) Debby Van Pelt ('69), Laverne Shipman ('70) and Mary "Mimi" Verbois ('69). It just dawned on me.. I've kissed all these girls!!	These girls are still as beautiful to this very day!! Hot damn!!
The girls at Cheerleader Camp. Oh God! I'm going through puberty again looking at these pictures!! Love your pigtails, Mimi! They are so cute! Gorgeous legs, Shirley!!!!  Is that Jane in the green short shorts?? Geez, those are so short!! Is this picture fuzzy or do I have a tumor????	Mimi Verbois and Debby Van Pelt at Camp. Uhhmmm, nah, I ain't gonna' say it...	Debby Van Pelt (top) & Jane Dawson

All the girls in ACTION! Wait, that doesn't sound right! Ahhh, what the hell!

PAUL SCOTT ('70) in Santa Monica, California is in a MOVIE! Take a look at the e-mail that he just sent to me..."Hey Dennis, I read all of your posts, but rarely have time to respond. Thank you so much for keeping us all in touch! I am writing to let you know that I am in a film that is opening in San Antonio on August 4th at the Fiesta 16. It's called "Who Killed the Electric Car?". The film is a documentary that answers the question of its title. For the last 4 years, I have been an activist for renewable energy and EVs. This film was being produced all that time, and now it's in theaters. I would consider it a personal favor if you would let the Mustangs know about it in case they are interesting in seeing it. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival this February and has gotten rave reviews. We are hearing rumors that many think it's likely to get nominated for an Academy Award! This would be very good, indeed. But for us, we're mostly interested in getting the message of the film out to as many people as possible. With global warming, the war in Iraq and all the ill effects of auto related air pollution, it's a very timely film. If you have any questions about the film, you can get lots more information from the Sony Classics website at http://www.sonyclassics.com/whokilledtheelectriccar/electric.html  I am also involved in a group called Plug In America. More information on that can be found at http://www.pluginamerica.com  . I hope you are feeling well these days, Dennis. I know you went through some hard times recently. Please take care, and look for me on the big screen!! Cheers! ---I hope that I get to see the movie Paul or I'll wait for the DVD. LOL Don't forget me when ya' become a SUPERSTAR! Hey! Send me an autograph, dude! (8/1/06)

JULY 2006
CINDY BACON ('71) in Omaha, Nebraska has two fellow class,ates who also live there- JOE HAZEL ('70) and KENNY SUNDBERG ('70).. I wonder what the chances were that three JJHS Mustangs would end up living there, of all places. I wrote to Cindy and asked if the three of them stay in touch... "No, Dennis, I have not kept in contact with Joe or Kent.  Shame on me. Right now I'm getting ready for a wonderful off season vacation in Belize.  I will be leaving tomorrow, 7/30, to meet up with family down there.  We will be staying at Barton Creek Outpost, bartoncreekoutpost.com,  the first week, then we will go to Caye Caulker and stay at the Ocean Pearl Royal Hotel. My family has been so kind as to give me this trip.  Then, when I return on Aug 12th, I'm fling in to San Antonio so I can meet up with my Dad to pick up the car he bought for me.  What a great summer this is!  I can't wait to drive home to Omaha in my new car.  Then I can start traveling more. My favorite thing lately has been getting in touch with SOTERO LUCIO ('70).Wow, it has been so wonderful e-mailing and talking to him. Take care and I will try to stay in touch more often." ---Cindy, have fun on your trip and be sure that the three of you touch base with one another. It sure would be great of the three of you could make it down together for the next SHINDIG! (7/29/06)

STAN GILES ('71) is stationed at Balad Air Base, Iraq as a chaplain (Lt. Colonel). I received this e-mail from him today... "Dennis I am likely the oldest Jay grad serving here in Iraq. I'm a chaplain with the Air National Guard and on my second tour of duty, the first one being served in Kyrgystan and Afghanistan.Fellow Mustang GEORGE HUNTER ('70) and I connected a couples of months ago, here. He was going to send you some photos, but I don't know if he ever did because I can't access your website from here. Things are wonderfully interesting here, especially for those of us senior citizens in the war zone, but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else but serving with these fine soldiers, airmen, marines and, yes, sailors. They're a great, great group of mostly young folks." Stan, it's great to hear from you. I still recall the great job you did at lats year's SHINDIG V in delivering the prayer. No, I did not receive any photos from George. That is one busy man! We all appreciate the many classmates who have served and those who continue to serve in our nation's armed forces. Keep you head down and come home safely. I'll reserve the prayer for you at the next SHINDIG. Stay in touch and God bless you. (7/28/06)

SUE WEBBER ('72) in San Antonio, Texas could use some mustang prayers...Mustang prayers are needed for classmate, as she is in the Intensive Care Unit at Wilford Hall USAF Hosiptal. Yesterday, (7/9/06), she had multiple heart attacks. The vein where the stint from a previous heart attack from about 2 years ago, had 100% blockage in front of it. The doctors acted swiftly, successfully unblocked the vein, and replaced with a new stint. Needless to say, Sue is very tired and resting. If, there are no further complications, she may be able to return home within approx three (3) days. Her family asks for Mustangs to please keep her in your prayers. My thanks to her sister, DOTTIE WEBBER ('71), for letting me know about Sue. Dottie can be e-mailed by clicking the link on her name. Sue does not have e-mail. Sue is the former wife of classmate, MICKEY MAHLER ('70). We include Sue in our prayers for a rapid and total recovery. (7/10/06)

RENITA FOSTER ('71) has been named a "PILLAR" of the Northside ISD for 2006 for her success in life and career. Annually, the Northside ISD Education Foundation selects six former students to represent desirable character traits in support of Northside's K-12 instructional program devoted to character development, including Caring, Citizenship, Fairness, Respect, Responsibility and Trustworthiness. Renita was selected as the NISD 2006 Pillar of RESPECT. She is one of six honorees chosen from past Northside ISD high school graduates. She will be honored at an awards dinner on August 30th and she is allowed five people to be invited as her guest at the awards dinner to sit at her table. She graciously says she submitted my name as her first guest. I am so honored! I told her to share this accolade with her mom and sisters, first. Past JJHS classmates who have been honored in this way include 1999: WALLACE JEFFERSON ('81); 2000: CATHY BACON ('70) and CLARISSA DAVIS ('85); 2001: MICHAEL HATCHETT ('78); 2002: SARA GILL ('73) and MAYA ROCKEYMOORE ('89); 2003: TYRONE POWERS ('70); 2004: ROBERT REYES ('98); 2005: SHANNON MARQUEZ ('88). Anyone that is interested in nominating a fellow John Jay HS classmate for this award can click this link: PILLARS (7/10/06)

EILEEN YOUNG ('71) in Temple, Texas writes to me... "Dennis, add me to the list as I just booked my room at the Hangar Hotel and I will be sending  the reservation check to you shortly. Thank you for doing this yet again. Can you believe.....FORTY  YEARS  since we first walked into the  hallowed  halls of  John Jay High School??? It really does seem  like...well, if  not yesterday, then maybe a few months ago. LOL This has been a year of life changes for me and my family. My mother-in-law had to be put into a nursing home last summer and she passed away back in Februry after a series of strokes at the age of 92 years. It was not an unexpected passing and she went very gently. We started some much needed repairs on her house in Temple, Texas, last fall and decided that what we really needed to do was just move into it. So, when school let out in Georgetown in May, my husband, Galen and I both quit our jobs and we moved forty  miles up I-35. Galen had talked of taking early retirement for the last several months and this is giving him a chance to try it out. As for me, my retirement  from Inner Space Caverns came just  in time. The last few months at work were a race between the calendar and my bad knees and rapidly developing arthritis. I think it was a tie. I miss my job and  my co-workers, after all I worked there for  4 1/2  years. I do not miss walking on average of 15 miles a week, however  LOL My plans are first to get as healthy as I can and then, I will see what I will be able to do as far as employment. I have always been one not to let any limitations hold me back and every day is a day when I find new ways of doing ordinary things. I know you have had your challenges this past year, as well, and still have those to overcome. And  overcome, them you will. Keep the faith!! Stay well and rest up for Shindig VI! Oh, and Happy Belated  Birthday!!!  I was out of town and July just sorta' snuck up on me  Love you for all that  you  do!!" --- Eileen, it's great to hear from you and I am so glad that you'll be coming to the reunion. This one is gonna be a bigger blast than ever before. Be sure to stay in touch and see ya' in ONE YEAR! (7/10/06)