JUNE 2007

LORI McDERMOTT ('70) in Ashburn, Virgina, writes..."Dennis- We bought a Canyon Lake vacation house and will be there as often as our schedule allows in the next few years until Steve retires.  The next opportunity will be in mid-August.  I'm mailing you a package for the reunion within the next few days with a Longaberger product that you can use anyway you want - for auction or as a door prize or whatever.  I'll also include a check to help with the web site expenses.” --- Lori, congratulations on finding your new Texas home. Thank you for the gift to give away at the reunion and for your forthcoming donation for the web site. I wisah you could be at the reunion. I look forward to seeing you one of these days, real soon, when you return to Texas for good! (6/26/07)

"THE GUYS" celebrated their 20th Year Anniversary, at a party held at Jack Matthew's house in Helotes, on Saturday, June 23rd. THE GUYS is a group of us "kids" who used to hang around together and the common thread was CARS, re-building engines, repairing them, making them go faster and faster and racing. Back in June 1987, I called Jack and we met at Pizza Hut. Over thext several months, we called other frineds who started meeting with us. Then, in recent years, we started inviting other classmates/friends from the '60s who were on the fringes of this '60s group of folks.  THE GUYS has grown into a national institution called upon by the federal government to preserve the memories of the 1960s and 1970s in the Westwood Village/Valley Hi/ Lackland Heights/Meadow Village area of San Antonio. Today, armed with the most potent weapon known to mankind, pizza & beer burps, we meet on a monthly basis, every last Friday of the month, @ 7:30PM, at Pizza Hut @ SW Loop 410 & Marbach. Membership is by invitation only and the process is difficult.  Not everyone can be a GUY, some girls are GUYS, but that's another story. America can rest easy knowing that THE GUYS are ever vigilent, protecting the nation from Communism, bad tacos, and uncomfortable itching. Some present and past members of THE GUYS include Jack Matthews, Dennis DuPriest, Bill Mizell, Eddie Hobbs, Harry Lindgren, Willy Lowe, Ed Holley, Kay Compton, Charles "Bubba" Abel, Linda Hughes, Stephanie Copas, Toy Kelly, Susan Breindenbach, Linda DuPriest, Wes Bendele, John Fiers, James "Bomba" Baum, Trey Hughes, Rusty Atkins, Mason Wright, Glenn Hutto, Rick and Heidi Sandoval. 20 YEARS AND STILL GOING STRONG!   (6/24/07)

JANICE SAMS ('70), in Los Angeles, California, was one of the first to make plans to be at SHINDIG VI, when I announced it last year. She was looking forward to seeing everyone. However, she has now had to cancel those plans. Her husband, Carlos, died on February 10, 2007 after a 23-month battle with a malignant brain tumor. He was only 45. She writes, “Dennis, I really can't come to the reunion, at this time. My son, Gabriel, is 16 years old, working and going to summer school. We are both still adjusting to Carlos being gone. I am (physically and emotionally) exhausted from the last 23 months of taking care of him, as you can imagine. I plan to come to Texas and see Shirley English, sometime, so i will give you a call. Take care and give my love to all. Affectionately, Janice.” ---Sweet Janice, please know that our prayers are with you and your son, as you go through this time of loss. I remember (I hope correctly) that your husband was from Peru and one of the most thrilling times you enjoyed with him was a trip to the amazing MACHU PICCHU ruins, high in the Andes Mountains. What a wonderful sight that mist have been. I have always known you to have a smile that lights up the world. I look forward to seeing you when you're able to make the trip to Texas, sometime in the future. Please know that we will miss you at the reunion. All our love to you. (6/20/07)

MARTI RUNNELS (widow of Chip Runnels '73) "I want to thank everyone who sent letters and emails to my husband in the last weeks of his life. He really enjoyed reading about fellow classmates and we very much appreciated your thoughts and prayers. Thank you." (6/14/09)

RIGGS GAY ('71) Margaritaville, Florida writes... "Dennis, I have retired from the Orange County Sheriff Office after 30 years of "fun and games!" last week.  Actually, I'm on leave for the next 9 months and will offically retire March, 2008 with 31 years of service." ---Great to hear that you've reached retirement without getting shot, dude! I still remember seeing you on UNSOLVED MYSTERIES. Did you ever solve that case? (6/14/09)

PHYLLIS GRIFFITH ('70) on Houston, Texas writes about the upcoming reunion... "Dear Dennis, I know everyone is going to have a great time at SHINDIG VI.  Sorry we wont be there. Mu husband, RUSSELL GRIFFITH (''70) is going to Singapore and Bangladesh for work during that time... and I will go to Atlanta, while he is gone, to be with my oldest daughter and my 5 yr old grandaughter.  Hugs for all my old school friends!!" ---We all miss you, two! We'll see you next time IF there is a next time! (6/14/09)

MICHAEL COLVARD ('70) in San Antonio, Texas also writes me about the reunion... "Dennis: Thanks for the e-mail (about the reunion) and for thinking of me. Unfortunately, I am scheduled to serve as the weekend chairman for Fiesta Noche Del Rio, a fundraiser put on by the Alamo Kiwanis Club at the Arnesan River Theater for July 13 and 14. I have to be there between 6:00 and 11:00 P.M., both days. I hope everyone has a blast!" --- Mike, thanks for getting back to me on this. You'll be missed. Please be sure to stay in touch with us! (6/14/09)

MAY 2007
MARK SAMER ('71) in San Antonio, Texas has made an AMAZING DISCOVERY! He was going through some things and came across his 1967-68 yearbook and discovered that for who knows how long, maybe 40 years,  he has had PATTI MILWARD's ('70) yearbook!! He e-mailed me and called, too! "Dennis, I Talked with Danny Padron. I pulled out my old JJHS Hoofprints 1967-68 yearbook and have found that everything is addressed to Patti Milward of the drill team! I don't know where my copy is, there was a mix-up somewhere and somehow I got hers, years ago!!. The book is in very good condition and has signatures and written notes to Patti from such classmates as Tony Pelletier, Chris Schlaeger, Patty Long, Tina Babcock, Alvin Woods, Mr William Tilton, Shirley English, Glen Burchard and SOOO many more signatures, I would like for you to contact her and give it back. Obviously, Patti spent a lot of  time on getting signatures for her yearbook and the book is in very good condition. My mom still lives off of Westfield and Westmont (around Barton's Boozery on Military Drive) and where my old sweetheart Jill Temple lived down my block and I would walk her home after her band practice. Anyway, I would gladly mail this yearbook to Patti or in anyway give it to her. It would defitinetly give her a thrill!! I still don't know where mine is, but her's is more important!! Please, if you have the opportunity, have Patti e-mail me at marksamer1@hotmail.com.  ---Mark, I have started the ball rolling and we'll get the yearbook back to Patti. This is an amazing story!(5/27/07)

BOB SHAFFAR ('70) in Boerne, Texas, is coming to the reunion and bringing his wife, the former SANDRA MILLEGAN ('73). They are also bringing another classmate with them, SANDRA GRIFFIN ('71). Bob works for the San Antonio Express-News and has been with the newspaper since two days after God invnted water!! LOL Not really. Bob had a great career in the U.S. Air Force and tells me something special is happening in his family. He writes, "Dennis, we're coming to the reunion on Saturday, but we won't be spening the night. First thing Sunday morning we're leaving for Anchorage, Alaska.I lived in Anchorage when I was four to seven years old when we were stationed at Elmendorf AFB while my dad was in the Air Force. Then, when I was in the Air Force, I was stationed there on active duty. Now, my son is in the Air Force and he is stationed at Elmendorf AFB as a C-17 Crew Chief. It's his first assignment, and this makes him our family's THIRD GENERATION to be stationed there. It's going to be a short trip for us, only 9 days, but we are soooooo excited about it. When we get back, I'll try to visit  you and show you some pictures. We're even going to do some panning for gold! Maybe I'll bring you some back." ---YES! Bring me back some GOLD! Bob, it's great to hear from you. I can hardly believe that your son is in the Air Force. Heck, the last time I saw him, y'all stopped by my house and were headed to a Boy Scout Jamboree somewhere. It's always been great to stay in touch with you and I look forward to seeing you, Sandra and Sandra at the reunion. While you're in Anchorage, see if you can find my very first John Jay girlfriend. Her name is Kathy (Keisor) Wisthoff. She and her husband Jay live there. So does MANNY HILL ('69). He owns an auto mechanics shop there. See you soon! (5/27/07)

LINDA DUPRIEST ('71) in San Antonio, Texas, gave me these three photos of the 1971 Class Officers a year or two ago, But she sent them in a WORD document and I didn't know how to copy the photos, Well, here it is, 3:38 AM, in the mornin on Sunday, May 20th. I woke up about 10 minutes ago and figured it out!! From left to right, are: Tony Pelletier -President, Cornelia "Stormy" Bradbury -Vice President, Linda DuPriest -Secretary, and David Trimm -Treasurer. The photos were taken in 1971, 1991 and 2005. They haven't changed a bit over the years. They are gorgeous and sexier than ever!! (And the girls don't look bad either!!!) What a hoot!! LOL The first two photos remind me of the covers to the two Beatles "Red" and :Blue" albums.

NORTHSIDE ISD NAMES NEW SCHOOL AFTER AN ORIGINAL MUSTANG TEACHER!! The Northside Independent School District has named a new elementary schools set to open next summer after longtime local NISD educators. Peggy Carnahan Elementary School at 6838 Babcock Road will be named for the former science teacher at John Jay High School. She was also the secondary science supervisor for the district. Today, at Our Lady of the Lake University, she serves as director of the Center for Science and Mathematics Education, helping science teachers to earn tuition-free master's degrees. (I was in her biology class for one week in 1967. She told us that we would be drawing our own blood for a class assignment and I freaked!! I dropped out of her class and got assigned to Mr. Bartella's class. What went on in there was a whole different story!! -Dennis) E-MAIL MRS. CARNAHAN AT: carnp@lake.ollusa.edu

Get a load of this! Mrs. Peggy Carnahan, our former biology teacher and original Mustang teacher, is getting a school named after her. She is so deserving of this wonderful accolade. Congratulations Mrs. Carnahan!! We love you!  I hope you will honor us by attending our SHINDIGVI Reunion in July for the Original Mustangs!

CAROLE WALLS ('77) in San Antonio, Texas, had something to do with the school being names for Mrs. Carnahan. She writes... "Hi Dennis! There were a group of us that did a massive nomination campaign for Peggy Carnahan. She has done so much for science and math teachers--not just in San Antonio, but throughout the region. I am one of the teachers that received my Master's degree free from OLLU because of Peggy's program. She has been an awesome mentor and a great role model. She deserves this honor more than anyone I know. She works tirelessly for education and science. I am proud to be one of the folks that got "Pegged". ---Carole, what a wonderful thing you and everyone have done. I have gotten to see Mrs. Carnahan on a few occasions over the years. She has even worked with some of the student at Somerset ISD, where I work. I know that a group of us have also supported naming a future school for our former band director DAN SCHRIEBER, who died in a private plane crash a few years ago. There's also an effort to name a school for our formewr principal, TERRY McGUIRE. I haven't heard anything on those, as yet. (5/19/07)
 
TONY SORIA ('70) in Chatsworth, California, just called me to say he was coming to the reunion and had mailed in his check. He's very excited to see everyone. I last saw Tony about a year ago and he was in town and popped in at a GUYS meeting with RALPH GALAVIZ ('69) and DANNY TREVINO ('70). That was a blast seeing him and I look forward to his visit this July. He is going to do his best to get some other JJHS grdauates that he stays in touvh with to come to the reunion, such as WALLY MEEKS ('69), DAVIDMcEATHRON ('70), CHARLIE FREEMAN ('70) and KATHY O'DAY ('70). And if anyone knows where BRADLEY SIMON ('70) is, please let me know, ASAP. Tony and I spoke for about 30 minutes, tonight, and I have to tell you that he is so inspirational to talk to. He is one amazing man. I told him that through my effort in organizing these reunions, that I have made more high school friends AFTER high school than I ever could DURING high school. While I won't go into details of our converstion, I just want to thank Tony for his phone call and tell you what a fantastic gentleman he is. He lifted my spirits and turned my day (in which I was laid up in pain) into a good day for me. Thank you my friend. (5/9/07)

SUE WEBBER ('72) in La Coste, Texas, gave me a phone call tonight and we talked for about 45 minutes. She had some sad news for me. The mother of our classmate, MIKE JONES ('72), passed away, today, Friday, May 4th. Funeral arrangements are being made with Mission Funeral Chapels and I will pass on the information to everyone whe it becomes available. Mike's mom ran the business end of Cook-Jones Air Conditioning for him. I had just seen Mike, this past March, when he came by the house to drop off a donation for this website. Mike's brother, JIM JONES ('70), passed away several years ago from cancer. Jim had been one of the original GUYS. I got to visit him in the hospital to give him his official GUYS DOG TAGS, about two weeks before he passed away. We all miss him and his dry sense of humor. Now, back to Sue... she's doing well, living in the boonies of La Coste. I laughed when she told me when she tries to sleep in on Sunday mornings, the constant train whitles wake her up and drive her crazy, but she still loves the country life. She's still adjusting following the passing of her son, Chris, back in February of this year. But, sgu is strong and she'll be okay. She expressed concern about my health situation and wished me the best. Sue offered to do anything she could for me and I told her, well 30 years ago or so, you had me over for a home-cooked meal and I'd enjoy another one sometime. LOL It was great hearing from her and I look forward to staying in better touch with her. Speaking of staying in touch, her sister DOTTIE WEBBER ('71) and I have stayed in touch for many, many years. After all, Dottie was my date for my Senior Prom in May 1970. With all due respect to all the beautiful girls there, Dottie was the most GORGEOUS!  (I wonder if that remark earns me a second kiss after these past 37 years!) LOL (5/4/07)

APRIL  2007
CHUCK KOSTMAYER ('70) somewhere in Louisiana, recently got back from a visit to mainland CHINA. He writes, "Hello Dennis! Hope things are better for you! and that ya'll have a great reunion! We just got back from a month in China, the wild wild east!  We had a few days in Beijing where I came down with some kind of stomach ailment.  If you ever check the back alley behind that fine resturant, you just ate at, to find them washing the dishes in the gutter, you'll understand why.Then we went to south China, where I came down with the type A influenza.  After passing out 3 times with a hot fever, I was taken to a public hospital.  What an experience!  The 3rd world at it's best!  After my fever broke, I checked myself out in short order, fearing I'd catch hep or something.  I've got to say, the nurses were the greatest and the service too,  but the technology lacking.  The day after leaving the hospital I checked my weight at the clinic to find I was down to 119 lbs!  That is less than I weighed at 16 in the summer of 1967. What a way to lose weight!  I don't recommend it!" ---Geez, and to think I used to love Chinese food before I read your e-mail. Pass the Pepto Bismol, please! (4/30/07)

DOUG CRAWFORD ('70) in San Antonio, Texas and LEONARD SAAVEDRA ('70) in Mesa, Arizona, both gave me a call last week just to check in with me. I hadn't heard from either of them in over a year. They're both doing great. Leonard says he doesn'y get back to San Antonio too often these days. In fact, when he wants to see his mom, he just flies her out to Arizona! Doug has just one kid left living at home, who's in college. Doug and Leonard have busy schedules and probably won't me able to make it to the reunion, but they'te trying. Thanks for calling, guys! (4/30/07)

KEN SKAER ('87) in San Antonio, Texas is organizing his 20-year reunion for the John Jay H.S. "Class of '87" on July 20-21-22, 2007. For more information, just contact Ken at: ken_skaer@yahoo.com  or click the link and visit their reunion WEBSITE  (4/28/07)

PHIL ORRICK ('69) in Austin and ROSS RAYMOND ('69) in Katy, Texas are just two classmates I randomly decided to "Google" and what do ya' know... their photos are on the internet! Phil works in a program connected with UT Austin and Ross is running for school board in Katy ISD. I just thought that I would post the two photos that I found of them on the web. (4/28/07)

UPDATE: 4/29/07: Phil saw that I tracked him down and sent this e-mail... "Dennis, Hey man! Thanks for reaching out, I've been keeping up with your e-mails and web site to keep track of folks. I'm finally getting a life long dream fulfilled and going to Ireland! The only unfortunate part is that it's the two weeks around the reunion. It's the only time that I could get away from work. Man, what timing huh. If you don't mind doing one of those updates on this ole boy, I'm happy as can be. After nine years together, Linda and I got married this year. I have two son's from pervious wives, Nathan is 35 and a successful sales and service guy for Daniel Steel in Dallas. I have two wonderful granddaughters, and a great daughter in law. My youngest son, Shawn, is 17 and a great musician playing bass clarinet and bass guitar, while I play a Fender Strat. He even went with me to see ZZ Top here in Austin. I'm the Director and Project Manager of a research center here at U.T. which means I work with some great research scientist, but as they say, Phil is the one that gets it out of the center on time. I wish I could say hello to everyone, of course you, but espeially Danny Padron and your sister, Linda DuPriest;  Larry and Patti (Milward) Young, and Mimi Verbois. Oh, Karin Walters, I still wish I had asked you to the prom! Hello, also to Cherri Cook, Jane Dawson, and on and on! I'll sure let you know if anything chanhes around the reunion. Take care man. Phil Orrick - Director & Project Manager Gulf Coast Technology Transfer Center Center for Social Work Research, The University of Texas/Austin Phone: 512-232-0616

CHUCK OGIER ('70) based in Las Vegas, Nevada, has been busy flying a 747 is the friendly skies, but took a break to write to me... "Dennis, It has been a long time since I dopped you a line and I thought I maight catch up a bit. We packed up and moved out of Cakifornia and now enjoy the heat of Las Vegas, up northwet pf yjr big sprawl. I continue to fly the "Big Iron" (Noeing 747) and love what I do, of course. I continue to see some very interesting things and participate in some worthwhile endeavors. Other than that, I am on a 3-week strip yjay tales me around tghe planet TWICE and damn it seems smaller all the time. I am in Seoul, South Korwa, todays, and yesterday I was in Adana, Turkey. Tonight, I'm off to Bejing, China and then, to Hong Kong. The day after tomorrow, I'll be in Japan and on to Anchorage, Alaska. With one day in Alaska, I'm off to New York and JFK with heading out to Prestwick, Scotland for a day. Once there,  I then fly back to Turkey, again. You get the picture... I don't even know what day it is! Take Care." --- Chuck, it's always great to hear from you. You have a wonderful career and an exciting and fascinating one. Anytime that you fly into San Antonio, be sure to give me a call. I'd love to let you buy me lunch/dinner and to fix me up with a couple of foxy (female) flight attendents! (4/27/07)

DON HARING ('70) San Antonio, Texas, is back in Mustang country and get a load of this! Further down this page I wrote little notice that Don was back here in town. I've known him for over 40 years, as our families were stationed together in Brindisi, Italy in the mid 60s. He's always been like a older brother to me all these years. Heck, his birthday, October 20th is the same day as my parent's wedding anniversary! Well, just about a month ago, he was transfered here to Ft. Sam Houston from Kentucky by the Army Corp of Engineers. Well, I just happened to "Google" his nane and look what came up! He's on the cover of this magazine and look at the subtitle: A PARTNERSHIP FOR SAFE CHEMICAL WEAPONS DESTRUCTION. Wow! Read all about what Don has been up to in this article! (4/28/07)




LARNED "CHIP" RUNNELS ('73) is dying of a terminal illness and he e-mailed me, today..."Dennis, I am Chip Runnels, John Jay Class of 1973. I was a member of the WrangIers, worked for the Cheerleaders and Drill Team during football games, and worked at Roberto’s Pizza.  I have included my e-mail addresses for you to allow people to e-mail me.  ldon’t know if you remember me, however, I would like to post the following on Classmate News... I am residing in Zephyrhills, Florida and currently in the Tampa General Hospital.  I am terminally ill with major liver damage (caused by HAZMAT exposure as a fire fighter for the USAF), Pulmonary Hypertension, and Thrombosis in the Portal Artery.  The staff here is doing everything they can, but I am basically awaiting the complication that will take me from this life.  While there is no timetable, the doctors say it is sooner than later.  I feel good and continue to have a fighter’s attitude.  Here’s my address if anyone wants to send cards, 37403 Gill Ave., Zephyrhills, FL 33541.  I enjoyed life, graduating from John Jay, having a 30-year Air Force career, and the many friends I have known over the years. I meant to make contact with you, Dennis, several years ago, but never did.  I have enjoyed your web site and the invaluable service you provide Jay Alumni.  Thanks for giving us a place to hold our memories and keep updated in life.” --- Chip can be reached by clicking on his name (link) above or by clicking HERE for an alternate e-mail address. (4/26/07)

BRUCE HATHAWAY KTSA DJ OF THE '60s AND '70s COMING TO SHINDIG VI
	BRUCE HATHAWAY, RADIO LEGEND AND MEMBER OF THE TEXAS RADIO HALL OF FAME IS GOING TO ATTEND THE SHINDIG VI REUNION AS OUR SPECIAL GUEST!
• DENNIS REMEMBERS... In June 1967, our family had just arrived in San Antonio after being stationed at San Vito Dei Normanni Air Station in Brindisi, Italy. I was 14 years old and the first thing I got into here in the states was listening to Top 40 Rock-n-Roll on the radio. I had two choices to listen to---- 55 KTSA or Top Dog 860 KONO. Well, KTSA had a radio contest called, "Here Comes the Judge." If the judge found you GUILTY, your named was entered into a drawing for a trip to Hawaii. If the judge found you INNOCENT, you were awarded your choice of a record album.  After hours and hours of trying to get through the KTSA phone lines I finally made it! (By the way, in those days a phone call to KTSA out on Eisenhower Road was a TOLL CALL from our home phone: OR4-1328. Remember, "OR" stood for "Orchard.") Anyway, when BRUCE HATHAWAY put me on hold while a Beatles record was playing, I ran outside and told my parents and brothers and sister, to listen to KTSA and hear me on the radio. I ran back in the house just in time to hear Bruce ask me my name and if I was ready to play. I said, "YES" and then I heard a gavel pound, and a voice say, "Here come da' judge, here come da' judge! And the judge finds you INNOCENT!." Damn! I wanted a chance to go to Hawaii. Well, Bruce took down my name and address and told me to come out to the station for my free record album and then, hund up the phone. It took like three weeks for me to convince my dad to drive ALL THE WAY over to Eisenhower Road to the KTSA studios. It was in the friggin' boonies!! I walked inside and a foxy receptionist check the winners list for my name and then led me to a a room. There was a tattered carboard box on the floor and record albums in it by groups I had never heard of!! They all had stickers on them that said NOT FOR SALE. FOR DEMO PURPOSES ONLY. They were crap! So, not to leave emptyhanded, I grabbed one by some unknown group called, "Three Dog Night." Geez..... Fast Forward to the start of school and meeting classmates in English class, DOMINGO "SONNY" GARCIA ('70). He was a TV celebrity as a "Swingtime Swinger",regular dancer and member of the TV show, SWINGTIME a sort of San Antonio AMERICAN BANDSTAND and hosted by KTSA radio DJ Bruce Hathaway and sponsored by BIG RED soda. Spnny invited me on the show and I remember that I took, DONNA ADAMS ('72) and we had a blast. After a couple more guests shots, I was asked to audition as a regular on the show. It was the first time I got to drive our family car by myself, a 1963 Ford Falcom station wagon. I got to the SWINGTIME offices on Broadway, three hours early, so I drove around the neighborhood. A garbage truck was coming towards me down the street and I stopped to do a U-Turn. Well, I backed into a telephone pole and freaked!!! I knew my dad would kill me!! Screw it!! It was more important to me to be good at the audition and I was! I was made a SWINGTIME regular for two years and what a way to make it with all the girls who wanted to get on the show with me!! I had two fantastic years on the show and became great friends with Bruce. I was even invited to several parties at his house and met some fantastic people. I knew  Z Z TOP, BILLY JOE ROYAL and 13th FLOOR ELEVATOR before they became famous! Anyway, Bruce became my idol and I told him that I wanted to grow up an be a DJ just like him. He discouraged me by saying, "When you get out of high school, get a REAL job, Dennis. Besides, DJs always have trouble with women, money, and booze." Long story short, I IGNORED HIS ADVICE, went to SAC for radio and TV courses and 40 years later... I am divorced, went broke and into severe credit card debt back in the 80s, but I never had a problem with booze. I had a hell of a great career in radio and television in South Texas!! Hell, I worked as Mortimer, the First Mate on the Good Ship Amigus, with CAPTAIN GUS, the only partner he ever had! To this day, I am grateful to Bruce for my success in my life and the fun career I had. He was even on my own radio show at KDLK Radio in Del Rio, Texas. He and I have stayed in touch all these years. We have dinner at the 410 Diner on Braodway and love the friend mushrooms!! We talk several times a year and try to stay in touch with other former SWINGTIME SWINGERS, to this very day! Sadly, SONNY GARCIA ('70) died as one of the first victims of HIV AIDS, several years ago in Kerrville. TRIBUTE FROM THE TEXAS RADIO HALL OF FAME: Bruce Hathaway says that the best years of his life were with Gordon McLendon and KTSA radio. He calls it his "golden years" and the years of real personalities and entertainment as well as radio then being a true companion to the listener. Bruce's on-air days in the 60's and 70's at KTSA at one time were shared with other personalities who included Robert Lopez, Lee Randall, Charlie Brown, John Wagner, Ron Richards and Danny O'Dell. Bruce says that he had the honor of working with such greats as Bob Hope, ZZ Top, George Strait, Willie Nelson and Garth Brooks, Paul Revere and the Raiders. In fact, Raider Keith Allison was the best man at Bruce's wedding. Bruce appeared on TV mc'ing the show, "Swingtime." He was voted South Texas' most popular DJ by the South Texas Appliance Association. Bruce recently said that he loves the people of radio and loves the radio jobs he's had, adding that he receives a lot of pleasure when someone takes time out of their busy day to tell him how much fun and entertainment they received from his time on the air. Now, Bruce continues to attend and participate in many and varied civic events and fundraisers. It's his way of saying thanks to San Antonio and South Texas. (4/24/07)

KARL RITTER (71) sent me an e-mail about something you men and ladies can do during the day Friday or Saturday (13 - 14) of the reunion. Karl writes, "Hey guys: I just talked to Dawn Donaldson, who is the owner of Above and Beyond Day Spa here in Frederiscksburg. She has asked to be part of our program. She has a website that describes all the things they do. (just click on the link name above) Should anyone wish to get a massage or their nails done this is the place to go. She says she will do out calls too. She is requesting that she be given some lead time so staffing can be arranged. If there is enough interest party trays with snacks will be provided. The Ladies will like it. Who knows, maybe the men will too." ---Karl, I checked out the website and I just might get a massges, I've never had one in my life. Will they do one with the lights out? I don't wanna' freak them out with my bod! LOL (4/21/07)

ROSS RAYMOND ('69) in Katy, Texas is the first person to break this news to me... "Dennis, get a load of this! John Campbell, III. the son of our former classmates, JOHN CAMPBELL, Jr. ('69) and CHRISTINE SCHLAEGER ('71) as well as the current head football coach at JJHS, has jumped ship and will be coaching at Taylor High School, this next year (Katy ISD).  This school also has the Fighting Mustangs, have a stallion on its hind legs in the lobby area, and the colors are blue and white.  The letter jackets look like those at JJHS. I know this because Taylor is located about 1.5 miles from my home and my daughter is on the drill team.  We are looking forward to a GREAT season as we have been plagued with years of disappointment.  Strange how our "salvation" may be coming from my old high school! Tell our John and Christine that I will look after his son and I am collecting the newspaper articles about John Jr. coming to town, we have had two big articles already on the newspaper front page.  I will present them to him when we meet as I know he will want them for his scrapbook.  I sure hope his scrapbook will be filled with news about thrilling victories!!!!!  (No pressure John, really none, for sure good buddy, just win, etc.)  My wife, Karen and I are disappointed we will not be with all you good and loyal Mustangs this summer, and if God allows and you are up to it, maybe another time?  I sure hope so. Go 'STANGS!" ---Ross, that was surprising news. I hadn't heard a single word about this and Christine usually keeps me posted on things. As for John Jr. ('69), I don't have the faintest idea where he is. He pops in and out of my life with a phone call or surprise appearance every few years. I don't even know if he knows about our upcoming reunion in July. You'll notice there's no line under his name. I don't have an e-mail address for him. Well, it's cool that young John III is going from Mustangs to Mustangs. If I remember correctly, young John III graduated from JJHS, too! Thanks for the news and we're gonna miss you at the reunion, Ross. I know that you're running for school board trustees in Katy and we all wish you the best in the May 12th election. (4/21/07) FOLLOW UP FROM MOM, CHRISTINE, IN SAN ANTONIO 4/23/07... "Dennis, by way of additional info, my son, John, (he's John III to be precise) has only been in Katy for less than two weeks.  It was a tough decision for him to make but we are excited for him and his new endeavor.  Of course, we'll miss having our baby boy close by and football allegiances are tough to transfer, but a parent must do what a parent must do.  I think the fact the colors and mascot are the same is a good sign!  You are right, John III and his wife are also both Jay alumni, as is our daughter, Alisa. See you at the SHINDIG VI reunion in July."

MIKE GRINFIELD ('70) in San Antonio, Texas, is learning the same message in life that I am, right now, "Getting old is a bitch!" He writes... "Dennis I have no idea if I can attend the reunion or not. Probably not. That is why I have not commited one way or the other. I realize you need an accurate head count.  I'm still in a lot of pain with my heart and it's hard for me to do too much. I just have to give the drugs a chance to work. I did not do that the last time and I am paying for it now.  I would really like to see all of the people that I have not seen in many many years. But I have to comply with the cardiologists wishes. I was supposed to be going to visit a friend of mine that now lives in Russia. That is now on the back burner for who knows how long.  However, I can come to the GUYS meetings again. Do I have to start my three consecutive meetings over again to become an official GUY. Sorry I have not kept any of you up to date." ---Mike, you just take care of yourself and you're always welcome to THE GUYS meetings any time you can make it! As foe becoming an official GUY, hey I got more power than the POPE! No problem. (4/21/07)

MATT DELANEY ('70) in Santa Barbara, California, was in towen for a visit two weeks ago abd called me for dinner. We met over at PANCHO'S. Over a three hour dinner, we brought each other up-to-date on our activities and classmate's lives. He is sych a wonderful friend and he insists on paying for dinner every time that he's in town!!  He's doing great working with a legal firm. (4/21/07)

DON HARING ('70) was in Kentucky, has been transfered to Fort Sam Houston, here in San Antonio. He is just two years away from retiring from his job as an project engineer with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He has managed such construction projects as a nuclear weapons incinerator! He paid me a surprise visit at my house, last week. He's been back in town for about two weeks. I, Don and his sister, Debbie, have known one another for over 40 years, as our families were all stationed together back in the mid '60s at San Vito dei Normanni Air Station, Brindisi, Italy. Don and Deb are coming to the reunion. 40 years ago, I had a crush on her and today, 40 years later, if I was ON her I'd CRUSH her!! LOL (4/21/07)

PHYLLIS (FORTENBERRY) GRIFFITH '70 & RUSSELL GRIFFITH ('70) Houston, Texas, Bangladesh and elsewhere writes to me... "Dear Dennis, I just got back in town today from spending a couple of weeks with my oldest daughter and her husband and my grandaughter.  I did not check my e=mail the whole time I was away, so that is why this response was not more prompt.  I am not ignoring you, but my life (and Russell's) has gotten so busy we can hardly keep up.  Our family keeps growing, with the 3 kids, 2 son in laws and grandaughter - we are always going somewhere. Russell has been traveling back and forth to Bangladesh, and has spent most of this year working on a project with Chevron there.  We also transitioned our middle daughter and her husband from Atlanta to Houston.  Now they are settled with jobs and a home, and our youngest has moved back home. Unfortunately, with Russell's work schedule and the uncertainty of where he will be during the reunion time, we are unable to make a commitment. We do appreciate everything you do and I apologize for not being more responsive. We were sorry to hear about your health problems and hope you are doing well.  As we get older, I think we all are not what we used to be.  Russell also suffers from diabetes for 15 yrs now.  He has had lots of eye surgeries for damage done from the diabetes.  I am doing pretty good, getting ready to have surgery on my foot for a torn tendon.  I am dreading the 6 wks. recovery in a cast. Please forgive me and Russell and keep us on your mailing list.  We love hearing from you, believe it or not! Take care,  Phyllis" ---It's so womderful to hear from you. I hope you and Russell are doing well. Please know that you can come to the reunion at the very last minute. I assume by your e-mail that you're in Houston. Is that right? Keep me posted of any developments. Tell Russ to get me a coffee mug that says Bangladesh on it! That would be so cool. I hope your foot surgery goes well and you have a speedy recovery. Love ya' (4/10/07)

MRS. YVETTE FINDER (Original JJHS French teacher) now in Boerne, Texas is still undecided about attending the reunion. Everyone needs to write to her and urge her to come! She writes... "Dear Dennis, I have been so negligent about getting in touch with you and I feel so bad. You have been so kind to me and I am so fond of you.  I have not sent mail or e-mail for many reasons :  my computer was not working for a while and I have a tendency to procrastinate but mostly i wanted to send you a letter with a check --- kind of a surprise --- and I am VERY bad with sending letters. ( You know: I'll do it tomorrow......) But I have excuses.  I am very busy with this big house. and the 2 acres of land, and the pool.  There is always something happening that must be taken care of immediately. plus I am renovating !!!!  Sometimes I am very tired,  I have problems breathing and all kind of little medical problems such as hurting the tendon in my knee on the treadmill at respiratory rehab at Santa Rosa --- I was going too fast----10 days ago. So I had to stay off my feet for almost a week by doctor's orders.. --- Around Christmas I had a staph infection caused by a spider bite. So, with all of that, I have not been able to make a decision about the reunion.  I am taking a CT scan in 2 weeks and I cannot make a decision before I get the results.  I try not to let my health affect my life too much yet it is hard to escape the anxiety that comes with testing. I have thought of you, very often.  For a while I knew that you were not feeling well, but your e-mails became more cheerful and I assumed you were doing better. I would have called you, as I am better at calling than writing,  but I know you are busy and I didn"t want to bother you. I will try to send my letter this week. Don't take me off your e-mail list.  I would be very sad not to get news from Jay and the students.  Sometimes I look for their pictures on my old yearbook and when I see them, I cannot believe so many years have gone by. Their faces are still so clear in my mind that it seems that I knew them just a short while ago. Fondly."---Well, I hope that you scan goes well and that you join us at the reunion. It just won't be the same without you! I'll be looking forward to your letter (and the CHECK!) Please call me any time that you can. It's always a pleasure to hear from you. It's never a bother!! Let me know! (4/9/07)

JOANN GIROUX  ('69) here in San Antonio, Texas writes... "Hey Dennis, I just haven't checked e-mails in a while; I have a hard time wrestling the computer from my daughter. Sorry I haven't responded sooner. Unfortunately, Dennis, I won't be going to the reunion..  My son and his family are coming for a visit from Washington D.C. and will be staying for a couple of weeks.  We'll be going to Padre Island over the reunion weekend, so I won't even be close by to make an appearance there. So, would you give all my apologies as well as my regards.  Take lots of pictures and post them on your website.  I'll be checking in there to see all the fun I've missed. Best Wishes." ---We are going to miss you so much! It was the FIRST reunion that you and Danny Padron put together 25 years ago that got me inspired to do these! (That and a lips-to-lips kiss from Clair Neyland, God rest her soul.) JoAnn, if there is any way you can pop in at the last moment, please do so. You are so very special to all of us! (4/9/07)

RIGGS GAY ('71) Apopka. Florida, can't make it to the reunion, this year. He writes... "Hey Dennis, how are you?  Sorry I won't be able to make the reunion this year.  I have other commitments.  I will be retiring from the Orange County Sheriff's Office soon.  My last duty day will be 05/28/07.  I have enough leave time to carry me on the books on active duty until 01/29/08 so I will be retired on active duty for 8 months LOL!  I will retire with 30.5 years of service.  Please say hello to all for me.  Thanks. ---Riggs, it's always great to hear from you. Sure wish you could make it to the reunion. Hope to see you one of these days! (4/9/07)

CAROLYN SPARKS ('70) San Antonio, Texas has had to bow out of the reunion... "Dear Dennis, I wont be coming to the reunion for several personal reasons.  I'm  sorry. However, I do enjoy reading your e-mails.  I did write you an email recently concerning your health and wishing you the best..Didn't you receive it?  < style="font-style: italic;">I am having knee replacement surgery on April 9.  That takes about 3 months to fully recover.  I will be on a walker and going to physical therapy for about 6 weeks. Fondly,  Carol." ---Carol. sorry to hear of your impending surgery. I may be headed the same road for my right knee. All these years of heavy weight on it has done its damage. Take care and have a speedy recovery. We'll all miss you at the reunion. (4/9/07)

TONY PELLETIER ('71) in Houston, Texas has written to me about a very worthy cause. I usually don't put such things on my website, but I make an exception for Tony. He writes... "Dennis: Shown below is an e-mail that I sent to many of my friends and business associates in the Houston area.  It discusses an annual charity bike ride (pedal type not Harley type) from Houston to Austin that raises funds for Multiple Sclerosis (“MS”) research.  As you know, our friend and classmate Clair Neyland was a victim of this devastating condition and, as such, I thought some of the Mustang crowd might be interested in helping. After suffering a heart attack 4.5 years ago, bike riding has proven to be a very effective physical and mental therapy for me.  Your story of Rick Mahler’s unfortunate event really hit home.  Mine was very similar – with one big difference of course - instead of laying back down to rest, my Eagle Scout son recognized what was happening and called for an ambulance.  After a quick trip to St. Luke’s Hospital and an emergency angioplasty & stent, I was fortunate enough to live and tell the tale.  My son, literally, saved my life.  Since then, bike riding has been an effective cardio-therapy.  Most Saturday mornings will see me logging between 20-50 miles. Anyway, if anyone is interested, the note below contains an E-link that makes it easy for people to help.  Wish me luck – 160+ miles in 2 days (with hills) is a good trek for a “mature” rider.  I’ll be glad to file a full report upon completion. As always, thanks for all of your outstanding efforts in keeping the original “Team Mustang” members connected.  I’ll see you in Fredericksburg. P.S. Dennis, You were quite impressive on the TV News story.  I thought you handled a very difficult situation with real professionalism and made it clear that the District had responded in an appropriate fashion." ---Tony, glad to be of assistance in your most worthy cause. (4/4/05)

Dear Friends: Once again I will be riding in the annual BP MS 150 Bike Ride.  Along with several thousand other cyclists, we will be pedaling from Houston to Austin on April 21st & 22nd.  This bike ride is not a race (clearly the story in my case), but it does raise money in the race to find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis (“MS”).  Last year, 13,000 sweaty riders raised more than $11 Million in funds dedicated to help current MS sufferers and for research towards an ultimate cure. As you know, MS is a devastating disease that attacks the central nervous system, affecting the brain and spinal cord.  The vast majority of its victims are struck, without warning, in the prime of their lives - between the ages of 20 and 50.  Approximately 400,000 Americans are currently living with the disease.  Counting family members and caregivers, this means that MS currently affects more than 2 million Americans. If you are interested in helping in this worthwhile cause, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society has made it very easy.  Shown below is a web-link that will direct you to the right spot and allow for an almost painless hit on your credit card.  Any and all donations are greatly appreciated. The E-Link for Donations: http://ms150.org/edon.cfm?id=198249  Many of you will recall that I successfully completed the ride in 2005.  Last year I had a schedule conflict, but I have been training in earnest for almost 6 months for this year’s attempt and (barring an injury) feel confident in my ability to complete the task.  Once again, I will be riding with my friends at Team Newfield.  For those that are wondering – I am not fast (actually, you probably ALL knew that).  The only resemblance between my ride and a Lance Armstrong effort is that we are both on a bike. Please accept my apologies for the shameless solicitation.  I would not do it if I didn’t think the cause was so worthwhile.  Thanks to all for your consideration in the fight against MS.    Tony

CLEVE HUGHES ('69) in Memphis, Tennessee sent me a photo to see if I could pick him out of the crowd. He writes... "Dennis, See if you can pick me out (R.C. Hughes) in this photo?  This is my M.C. Club while we were having our 10th annual Poker Run.  All these guys are area law enforcement except one F.B.I. agent who slipped in. Always gotta' have a spy in the crowd.  We raised $10,000 for a female Memphis Police Department officer, who has had five brain surgeries and she has a rough road ahead.  We had over six hundred motorcycle riders attend and make donations. It was our most successful run to date. Looking forward to your July Shindig  and seeing lots of familiar, but older faces.  stay in touch".  -- Cleve, I can only get one-half of the photo here on the webpage, but I recognized you right off the bat even though I haven't seen you in about 15 years or more! I wonder if anyone else can. (4/3/07)

DONNA STEPHENS ('70) in Corpus Christi, Texas and her twin sister, Monna, are coming to the reunion. She writes... "Dennis, Hey Dude!! I do receive all your emails and READ all of them. I have been tracking your serious health issues and have been sending my private prayers to the heavens above. We need you on our team!! Now,  my sister and I were one of the first to RSVP last year at the Hangar Hotel. I would not miss this event. Now as for Monna. She is going to be my date! We are not allowing our husbands to attend the reunion events!!  HA  They will be staying at the hotel with us, but just not attending the reunion events because, one-- they don't know anyone and two-- they are too old  (ha) and three-- they are not interested!! HOWEVER, both of them are WWII nuts and plane nuts and can't wait to see all that the HANGAR hotel can offer. Now, I have not been answering emails all spring because I've been a little preoccupied! My mom had a stroke after Thanksgiving. I flew up and stayed 5 days until she was released from the hospital.    She is doing OK, not great!   She lost sight in her left eye and it has been slow to recover.  I was home again in December to check on her. Then, because Calvin is in the middle of building our fourth car wash and needed my dad's help, I flew to Missouri and drove my parents and great nephew down to my house on Jan 31st to spend five weeks with me!  My mom still needs help since her stroke. Dad has been helping out, but since my husband was keeping him busy, it's left to me Then, I drove them back home, stayed  a few  days and flew back to Corpus. I worked like hell for a week before four out of my five grandkids visited for  SPRING BREAK.   At the end of the week, I took them to S.A. to Sea World, put two of them on a plane back to Dallas and drove the other two back to Austin.... then I went BACK to S.A. to attend my MaryKay Conference, drove back to Corpus Christi where my husbands school friend and wife were waiting in my home for me to return. They only stayed all week ( from Comanche, Texas). They left in the morning and that night I taught skin care classes to 42 little fifth and sixth grade girls at the Baptist Church "lock in" event. The next afternoon Calvin and I flew to Las Vegas to attend a car wash convention for 4 days.   We  flew home last Wednesday night and his cousin and wife arrived the next morning from San Angelo (I'm NOT kidding)  ..... whew.... They left TODAY!!!    It's the end of the month and I have approx.1400 invoices to audit and post and get our statements in the mail this week because I plan to leave on April 10 (after the kids are here for Easter) to DRIVE to Canada with a friend who has been here visiting since NOVEMBER!! Then, I will fly home from Canada on April 19th, just in time to plan our GRAND opening for the new carwash. I'm tired already!! Ha! In between all of this I try to take care of my 100 MaryKay customers, attend my weekly Rotary meetings (I am our club's liaison for the INTERACT Club at the Calallend High School), take care of the paperwork for our four carwashes and 17 employees and attempted to take paper tole classes twice a week this winter!! In May, I will be flying back home to spend 10 days with my mom to help her out and visit with my little sister, Kristi, who has Chronic Lyposetic Leukemia, or CLL and has been given only 5-7 years left of life. In June, I am going to have all five grandkids for 10 days and attend a niece's  wedding in Florida. In July, I will be attending our reunion Shindig VI and  keeping two of my grandkids for a week and attending my MaryKay Seminar in Dallas!  I'm still tired and August in just around the corner. So, if you feel a little ignored because I haven't been able to stay in tiouch as often as I'd like to, I am soooo sorry. My heart has been with you in any event.  AND I promise to try and answer more of your emails. I love you as always." ---Donna, you sound like you're living the life of TWINS! Slow down girl, and smell the roses! LOL You do have sauhc a busy life  and I really do appreciate it when you do write to me. Thank you for the kind thoughts and prayesr. I can't wait to see you and Monna at SHINDIG VI. You're both still the most beautiful twins I have ever known! (4/3/07)

 MARCH 2007
DENNIS DUPRIEST [ME ] ('70) San Antonio, Texas and YES that was ME that a lot of people saw on KENS TV-5 and KSAT TV-12 on Monday night, March 25th. I have been inundated with e-mails and phone calls from you classmates. Geez! Well, here's the story... as the Somerset ISD Public Information Officer, I'm the one to explain to the media about the goings on at our schools. Well, to make a long story short, 5 high school boys stood on the toilets in the high school and hoisted themselves up into the ceiling and crawled over to the girls restroom. A girl looked up, saw a face, screamed and ran for help. Campus police went up and caught all five boys and four of them had camera phones. Imagine me having to explain this to the news media! Well, why not watch the TV news report to find out what happened! Just click here: PEEPING TOMS

GLENN BURCHARD ('69), in Austin, Texas, and his lovely wife, Melba, were recently in Las Vegas for their oldest son's wedding. While they were there, they went to the Mirage Hotel and saw the blockbuster live show, "LOVE" performed by Cirque du Soleil and based on Beatles songs. Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison (George's widow) LOVE the show! Glenn and Melba remembered my love of the Beatles and got me an official BEATLES LOVE COFFEE MUG, wrapped in BEATLES LOVE wrapping paper and all in a BEATLES LOVE bag! I can't believe it! What a fantastic coffee mug. Thank you so very much! This just totally blows me away. I have been following that show ever since it was in the concept phase and got the CDs the day they were released. I would give anything to be able to see that show live, as I have heard awesome things about it. I really appreciate your kindness in thinking of me. A BEATLES LOVE coffee mug, in BEATLES LOVE wrapping paper all in a BEATLES LOVE bag! What a FAB-4-TASTIC addition to my Beatles collection!! I treasure our friendship and look forward to seeing you at SHINDIG VI. LOVE is all around. (3/29/07) With LOVE, Cirque du Soleil celebrates the musical legacy of The Beatles through their timeless