ALEMANY SUCCESS STORIES: PREDICTIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR
by
THE SHADOW
as revealed to
The Batman Frank Bonaccorso
12/30/06
Post-Reunion Alemany News from Small and Not-so-small Town Newspapers and
Media Sources as Gathered by The Shadow:
Fact, Fiction, or Rumor, You Decide

Ventura , CA : Ventura County Commissioner Dantona offered VP spot on Hilary Clinton Ticket

Palm Springs , CA : Jay Pelzer named captain of US Ryder Cup Golf Team

Freeland , WA : Dr. Barb Promises Quick Intervention in Donald Trump-Rosie O'Donnell Feud

Palmdale, CA: Dan McMahon leaves Nuns for Fun to become Co-host of Tonight Show with Ed McMahon as Host: Dan says when he saw Ed McMahon at his door he thought he had won Publisher's Sweepstakes. Ed said, "No, the winner is someone named Oscar Rivera, Jr., but that is beside the point, I'm here to beg you to be my co-host on the Tonight Show".

Volcano National Park, Hawaii : New Guinness Book of Records Feat: Frank Bonaccorso breaks record for continuous performance of The Freddy. Bonaccorso had to finish his feat with feet in Warachi Sandals after wearing holes in his Wingtips, Hush Puppies, and Buster Brown Saddle Shoes over 18 days and nights. Park Superintendent declares she is happy this is finally over; the constant blaring of The Freddy over loudspeakers had set back the breeding cycle of the endangered Nene Geese in the park.

San Pedro Harbor , CA: Claudia Haugh Stepan and Monique Lussier Padberg sign contract for Alemany Grads Dream Cruise. Claudia and Monique found an unbeatable price on a ship of Latvian registry for a 3 day San Pedro to Cabo Blanco cruise. Monique noted the new name of the ship was being painted in Cyrillic Alphabet over the old name (remaining letters of old name TITAN____). Once Claudia purchases a Latvian-English dictionary she promises to let us know the new name of the ship. Send deposits to Claudia to hold a place on this cruise of a lifetime. The first 10 Alemany girls to send in deposits get to sit at the Captain's Table with Bob Johnson .

Pebble Hills Golf Course: Pelzer names Tiger Woods and Ron West to Ryder Cup Team, More Spots for Team Still Open.

Somewhere Deep in the Heart of Texas: Ken Matwiczak Named Head Coach of Dallas Cowboys after Parcels Fired: Owner Jerry Jones when asked about the hiring of a relative unknown with no coaching experience says, "It's the Black Hat man, with that Stetson hat he is the only one that can intimidate TO into performing".

Dantona Declines VP spot on Clinton Ticket saying something bigger is about to happen.

Visalia , CA : Cowboys New Coach Signs New Quarterback. The Dallas Cowboys tendered a two year guaranteed contract to Dave Gieg to lead the Cowboys to the Superbowl. When asked if he could learn the playbook by Sunday, Gieg said, not to worry about the playbook, Coach Matwiczak said just throw it up every play in the vicinity of TO. As part of the contract Gieg demanded that Ralph Ahn be named offensive coordinator and Michael King be special teams coach. Both were appointed.

Memphis, Tenn : Bobbie Mosher Noreen named Official Greeter and Social Director at Graceland and promises live appearances by Elvis.

Hollywood: McMahon and McMahon announce guest appearance by the Tap Dancing Mertens Twins on debut night of the new Tonight Show. D. McMahon sold E. McMahon on the dancing twins as the best entertainment act since Liberace retired

Bonneville Salt Flats , Utah . Johnson Sets World Record Time and Wins at Bonneville. Retired Air Force officer Robert Johnson set a new world record in the Soap Box Derby at the Salt Flats on New Year's Eve. Johnson was quoted as saying the other drivers could not handle the slope of this difficult course.

Stockholm , Sweden : Rex Olliff crowned King of Sweden. After the former king Carl XVI Gustaf abdicated, the Swedes were adamant that they have a king with a name they could pronounce. The Swedish Exchequer said, Olliff is pronounced similar to Olaf and we can say that easily. Hereditary records and DNA tests showed Olliff to be in the royal line.

Stockholm , Sweden : Noble Prize for Medicine was accepted by Dr. Alan Shows. Dr. Shows came out of retirement to make the first artificial heart transplant in a ruby-throated hummingbird. Newly crowned King Rex attended the ceremony and claimed there was no Alemany bias here. Dr. Shows did what no man has ever attempted before.

Santa Rosa , CA : Martin Molidor markets new tomato sauce on Martha Stewart Show under label Super-duper Sock-it-too-em Sockerooni Sauce. Already stock in Paul Newman's sauces has hit new lows from anticipated competition. Asked about his new formula, Molidor would not reveal ingredients but did say it's mostly stuff he found in discarded tin cans left around by his homeless companions in Santa Rosa.

Chicago , IL : A smiling Jim Dantona was introduced by the President of the Chicago Cubs as the new hitting instructor for the Chicago Cubs.

Dubuque , Iowa : Hilary Clinton on the campaign trail is still adamant to have an Alemany High School graduate fill a key government post on her team. She is believed to offer posting as US Ambassador to Vatican to Father Kerry Beaulieu in trade for an Alemany endorsement. Clinton admitted that Beaulieu does not get on well with the Pope, but I need the power behind the (in)famous Alemany Pac Political Machine. She left the press conference muttering, "I'll get even with Dantona."

Somewhere in the Mojave Desert, CA: While driving to Vegas, Jay Pelzer makes contact by cell phone with lost Alemany Golf Team member, Robert (Bob) Lendzion, and receives verbal commitment from Bob to accept final spot on US Ryder Cup Team for 2007. Pelzer believes that Lendzion will be a steady influence on Tiger Woods and can help Tiger with his erratic putting.

Atop Mt. Pinos, CA: History buff Ken Meddock claims to have found Noah's Ark on Mt. Pinos but confirmation pending carbon dating of plastic planking from keel according to Meddock. Meddock went on to state that this important discovery helps to take some of the sting away from Jay Pelzer leaving him off the US Ryder Cup Team.

Dallas , Texas : Gieg throws for 826 yards as Cowboys beat Bears 88-10 in final regular season game. Gieg said he just followed Coach Matwiczak's game plan and threw it up there in the vicinity of TO. Asked by the press, if he had any pre-game rituals, Gieg, expounded on the benefits of a fried chicken pre-game meal smothered in Molidor's Super-duper Sock-it-too-em Sockerooni Sauce.

UCLA Medical Center , Westwood , CA : Dr. Barb hospitalized after wrestled to ground by Rosie O'Donnell. Injuries to Dr. Barb believed minor abrasions, contusions, and a hangnail, however, Trump got in the way of Dr. Barb's left hook intended for O'Donnell and is in critical condition. Dr. Alan Shows was consulted about Trump's condition, but was quoted as saying, "What can I do for him, he has no heart. Really, only Dr. Barb can help him".

Bora Bora : Mick Jagger honeymoons with Peggy Jones on this tropical island. The happy couple had eloped to a Las Vegas ceremony and then took the rock singers private jet to the South Pacific. Jones admitted that after 40 years of Jagger stalking her and raving about her great legs that she finally gave in and found true love. The couple was believed to have first met at a concert performed by Jagger in 1965 in Los Angeles .

Playboy Mansion : Cha Cha Faitel reveals tryst with Hugh Heffner as true reason for missing Alemany Reunion.

NASA Headquarters, Houston: Neil Armstrong admits being Second on Moon Walk. In a press release to Reuters, Armstrong confesses that just after saying his famous words upon stepping on the lunar surface he saw a piece of rock graffiti reading, "Pelzer was here, 1963". Armstrong also found a Titleist 3 golf ball left by the base of the rock, a brand known to be Pelzer's favorite ball, so it looks like the Jayster scooped Alan Shepard too.

From the Research Department: Thirty-five years have passed since our most famous amateur golfer astronaut, Alan B. Shepard, Jr., described the exaggerated distance of his moon shot (in 1971) as "miles and miles and miles." Those famous words followed a one-handed golf swing with a rigged up six iron on the moon. The first swing was reported to be a duff, but the next connected.
Although Shepard fired off those two golf balls in moon gravity which is about one-sixth of earth's, they did not go miles and miles and miles. Shepard later appended his estimate to drive distances in the 200 to 400 yard range. Still, not bad with one hand and encumbered by a suit that prevented a good pivot on the swing.

Jay, how far did your Titleist 3 go on the moon? Be truthful now.


CBS Offices, Manhattan Island : Rupert, of Rupert's Deli, had leaked word, that to counter the new hosts on NBC's Tonight Show, CBS has named Rich Carvotta as the new host of the former Letterman Show. CBS executives confirmed the rumor, stating that Carvotta has long been known to have much funnier Top 10 Lists than Letterman, and is much better with live animals than Letterman for the Stupid Pet Tricks.

Duluth , Minn : David Surges Wins Iditarod! After 20 years of secret training with a team of nine dogs, Surges made his debut in the Greatest Race on Snow as a run-away winner. Asks if he intends to defend his title next year, Surges said, "Nope, I'm going to retire undefeated and spend all my winter days ice fishing from now on".

Hollywood , CA . Bob Orlando has been chosen as the next Batman for the new Spielberg directed, George Lucas produced, blockbuster movie, The Dark Side of Batman. Spielberg insisted that Orlando play the part of the superhero, stating he saw him in South Pacific at Alemany in the 60's and that his talent has been underutilized. Orlando immediately sent Frank Bonaccorso a text message requesting assistance in coaching him how to move like a bat and how to wear a cape. Bonaccorso invited Orlando to study methods acting with him in Papua New Guinea where he can observe bats first hand. Bonaccorso also recommended Tom Stratton and Ron West to manufacture the new batman tool kit belt stating that, "Those guys have a genius at invention not seen since DaVinci." Bonaccorso asked Orlando who would play the part of Cat Woman in the new film and Orlando said he "did not care as long as it was an Alemany woman!"

Send Diane Muscolo Bergstrom a get well card, she is recovering from ankle surgery. As Diane was being wheeled out of surgery, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger was being wheeled in for repairs after his skiing accident. At the site of the crying governor, Diane had the medical staff stop both gurneys, leaned over and gave Arnie a slap to the face and told him, "This is no way for my Governor to behave. Now buck-up or it's Hasta La Vista, Baby!" Obviously, this intervention (which is more than we can say for Dr. Barb's efforts) worked as the Governor is reported to be recovering in Sacramento .

Buckingham Palace , London , UK : Queen Elizabeth II delivered the oath as John Preble and Guy Proto became British citizens. Preble and Proto were rushed to citizenship as the British scrambled for new blood to lead their Ryder Cup hopes against the formidable US golf team. Preble and Proto both claimed they could beat the Americans Pelzer and Wes t and noted they were relieved that Meddock was left off the team. "Meddock is the only one we fear from the Americans", declared Proto with his new Cockney accent. When asked about Tiger Woods, Preble pointed out that, "No worry there mate. Pelzer has screwed up Tiger's putting something awful." King Rex of Sweden declared he is betting on the British now that the dynamic duo has joined the team, "Besides", declared the King, "it's all about European solidarity and those two chaps the Brits have are Alemany grads."

Douglas , Alaska : Ann Turner Olson captures giant squid while fishing for king crabs. Turner Olson is the first non-Japanese speaking person to ever see a live giant squid. Reports from Alaska claim Turner Olson is keeping the squid alive on a diet of crab meat in her bathtub. Rich Carvotta has invited the squid named Cecil and Turner Olson to perform a Stupid Pet Trick on the Dick Carvotta Show. Turner Olson agreed provide that Cecil not be labeled a Stupid Pet, "He really is the most intelligent invertebrate I have ever met," claimed the Alaska fishing legend.

Hollywood , CA . Spielberg announced the writing team for the his new batman movie would be award winning writers Terry Boyle Southwick and Charmaine Haley Coimbra.

Hollywood , CA : It seems there is a bidding war for the trumpet of Al Ponchie Covarrubias. Ponchie has had offers to lead the bands from both CBS for the new Dick Carvotta Show and from NBC's Tonight Show with the McMahon boys. Ponchie's agent John Folse is listening to offers from both networks.

Taco Bell Headquarters: Taco Bell announced today the source of recent food poisonings at their restaurants has been definitively traced to the new Martin Molidor Super-duper Sock-it-too-em Sockerooni Sauce used in Taco Bell burritos. Martin Molidor could not be contacted for comments. Paul Newman's stock is skyrocketing on the N.Y. Stock Exchange.

Lancaster , CA : Will someone please tell Ron and Don Turkal to leave the bus stop. The Lancaster to Alemany bus no longer is running!

Rolling Stone Magazine: Rolling Stone predicts Susan Shannon Weaver will be the next Cat Woman opposite Bob Orlando's Batman! Variety declares, Cat Woman will be Christina Marie Gilmore. Leading man Orlando was heard to say at the Whiskey A Go-Go that, "Sue knows how to purr and she definitely knows how to scratch". While Spielberg claims that "Christina is sexy as the cat's meow and will make everyone forget Michelle Pfeiffer."

Volcano, Hawaii . Someone send a cheerful note to Frank Bonaccorso, the UCLA Cheerleaders dumped him after consuming his wine rack and trashing his home in Volcano Village . Then he learned that Peggy Jones came to Hawaii and did not visit him (of course she already had her heart set on Mick). Maybe Cha Cha can invite him to the Playboy Mansion .

Alemany Class of 1966 Photo Identification Contest: The first person to correctly identify the man in the photo below wins (1) an autographed copy of the greatest science publication since Darwin : Thermal Ecology of Moustached and Ghost-faced Bat (Mormoopidae) in Venezuela; and (2) an original cassette tape of Nuns for Fun.

Hint: This person became famous while we were in High School but his pinnacle of success came after our graduation.



Coming soon if you demand it from the Shadow:

Can Dave Gieg really lead the Cowboys to the Superbowl?

Do all of you know who TO is?
How will the US (Alemany) Ryder team do against the British (Alemany) Ryder Team? Will there be bad blood on the golf links at St. Andrews ?
Can Surges be coaxed out of retirement for the next Iditarod? His dogs are still in their prime!!!!
Will the new batman be a box office smash?

Will Batman fall in love with Cat Woman?
Will the Turkals ever leave the bus stop or is this the making of a new folk song like Charley of the MTA ?

Do both Turkal brothers wear bow ties?
Can Jim Dantona break the Curse of the Goat for the Cubbies?
Is the Peggy and Mick romance for real? Will Peggy go on tour with Mick?
What will Ann teach Cecil for his stupid (uh sorry, intelligent) pet trick?

Will Carvotta crack a smile when he encounters squid breath for the first time?
Can The Rich Carvotta Show compete with McMahon and McMahon on the all new Tonight Show for Nielsen Ratings?
Could Noah have been ahead of his time and had a plastic ark or is Meddock barking up the wrong mountain?
Will the cruise on the SS Titan??? be a success and is Bob Johnson up to being chasing around deck for 3 days by all the Alemany girls. Are there any icebergs between San Pedro and Cabo at this time of year???
Will King Rex lead Sweden back to former glory?
Did anything more happen between Diane and Arnie the Governator?
You saw her in the Alemany DVD! Will new photos of Cha Cha be revealed?
What network will Ponchie sign with and can Folse get him the big contract?
What super special devices will Tom and Ron invent for Batman to use? Are they also inventing for Cat Woman?
How could a sweet young Alemany girl turn into Dr. Barb?
Will Marty Molidor survive the lawsuits sure to come from Taco Bell?
Will Pelzer ever go in space again? Do Armstrong and Shepard hold a grudge against Jay?
Who do you think will get the Cat Woman role? Vote at the email address below.

Some new stories we are working on: Will the swallows return to Father Art at Capistrano on time in an El Nino-Southern Oscillation year and will those birds stay for the opening of the new basilica? I think Frank Diaz is researching this one.
Anything to the rumor that John Gugerty is up for a job with the Lakers?
We have heard about Sister Anselma. Has anyone else located any Alemany classmates since the reunion?

The Shadow has found a previously lost address for retired police officer and judge David Nehen and awaits a return letter before releasing further information.
What member of our class is alleged to have sung at James Brown’s recent wake?


And that's all the news fit to be printed about the Alemany Grads for the moment. If you have any late-breaking fact or fiction info tracking the above news flashes or brand new secrets to reveal about Alemany grads not even mentioned yet send to: The Shadow bonafrank@yahoo.com

Happy New Year. And remember don’t try to hide anything because, “The Shadow Knows.” He knows about your dreams that did and did not come true.

Dr. Maureen Longworth's Holistic Medicine

Dear Friends,

Here is information from my sister Maureen about her Holistic Medicine Workshops in 2007.

Pam (Longworth) Pelton

December 1, 2006

Dear Friends and Students,

Pre-solstice greetings from over 50 inches of snow and temperatures below zero already in Juneau! Check out my new web site at www.alaskaholistic.com

Soon we will be convening my first class in California, just outside Palm Springs, at a peaceful resort with wonderful hot mineral springs, over Martin Luther King Holiday weekend, January 13-15^th. The focus, “Finding Balance in the New Year” will offer energy balancing techniques for healing every organ system in the body and the chakra system, meditation instruction, and overall mind, body, spirit balancing techniques. You will learn tools useful for personal and professional development, to help you find your center in your New Year, and direction on your personal path.

Details and registration form are available at www.alaskaholistic.com

In February I will teach Level Two here in Juneau over President’s Day Weekend, February 16-19 for going deeper into our natural rhythm, leading to more authenticity integration and self healing. (No pre-requisites, beginners welcome)

I will return to Fairbanks December 17 & 18 and possibly in January or February for individual sessions and then in the Spring tentative dates March 23-25 for Balancing the Tides Class, approved for CEU’s for nurses and counslors. (See info next paragraph.)

This summer in Juneau I will offer the complete Level One over two weekends: “Root of the System” class (similar to the California January class above) with balancing techniques for every organ system and the chakras June 29 to July 2. Then after Juneau’s spectacular Fourth of July festivities, I will teach “ Balancing the Tides”, on the liver stream, immune system, pelvic and brain balance July 5-8. The courses can be taken together or separately, and each will include an optional outdoor component to sense and feel the natural energy here in Juneau in different locations, with varying qualities and atmosphere. Balancing the Tides is approved for CEU’s for nursing. And both have been approved for CEU’s for Licensed professional counselors. Please state that you would like CEU’s when you register, and your affiliation.

There are some other possibilities of classes in the works in other locations and I am open to traveling to your area if there are students interested in studying with me. I plan specific seminars, workshops and key note addresses for institutions or groups as well as retreats and professional development activities. When I am in your location I am also available for individual sessions.

All of my classes are open to beginners and seasoned veterans. Because the techniques are experiential and immediately usable, the classes are a practical vehicle for any stage of personal development , and the group experience contributes to accelerated learning and healing.

Let me know what you are interested. Thank you for sharing information about my work with others.

Best wishes for the holidays and the new year.

Maureen Longworth, M.D.

Alaska Holistic Family Medicine

Partnering with Open Circle Institute,

Bringing balanced education to communities

119 Seward Street, Suite 17, Juneau, Alaska 99801

907-5BE-WELL

Office Cell: 907-723-9351

ahfm@gci.net

www.alaskaholistic.com

The California Flyer and Registration Form are available at www.alaskaholistic.com

Discounts apply to fees paid on registrations to Dec 29, 2006

If you would like to pre-register for any of the other courses listed above, please contact us and let us know what classes and locations you are interested in so we can send you the information and registration form as soon as it is available.

Santa Fe Sunrise Photo

This is the spectacular sunrise we woke up to this morning, Dec. 21, 2006. I just had to share it.

Charmaine
Santa Fe, NM

Christmas letter from Bobbie Mosher Noreen

December 2006

Dear Family and Friends,

I am bundled up by the fire on this chilly night, thinking of you and praying this past year has been kind. I know for many it has been filled with great trials and tribulations, and for some it has been wrought with awesome sorrow. Some years are like that-- some are not. For us it has been a good year. A year marked with a new beginning, anniversary celebrations and reunion reflections. I spent a lot of time this year looking back over the last 40, wondering where the time went and how different my life could have (would have) been had I traveled different roads. However, the roads I did choose, along with the one chosen for me at birth, connected me to you and for that I am grateful. So I wish you love and a sense of purpose in your life, knowing that all that happens to us and all that happens by us are connected to the whole. This gives us great responsibility, but also great protection and peace, knowing that we are part of something splendid-------- our Creator and each other.

Ted and Shasta's wedding took place March 11. As with all weddings, the bride, the groom and all of the family members, wondered why they just didn't elope and dispense with this extremely stressful and hectic ritual we use to mark the union of two people. The perfect place for this event could only be found on the remote island of Isla de Mujeres just off the coast of Cancun. Detailed planning ensued to coordinate all that would bring 30 various family members and friends together for approximately 4 days. Planes, taxis, boats, and golf carts lined up for the excursion. Suitcases carrying tons of resort style clothes, accessories, jewelry and of course the wedding gown and trousseau broke the back of all who were forced to lug it into and onto our appointed vehicle. I was stopped and questioned at customs. No one there would believe that all the jewelry I was carrying was for my own embellishment and not for sale. John just stood by with the, I told you not to pack so much, smirk he gets whenever we travel. After a great deal of fast talking, we arrived on the most beautiful island paradise on a sun filled warm day, and the festivities began. Gallons of Margaritas and pounds of guacamole and chips were devoured as we reveled in glory of being in Mexico and approaching the final culmination of the pain and agony that goes into planning a wedding. We all stayed in a beautiful villa overlooking the Caribbean, each room decorated and amenitized differently and impeccably. Large fluffy towels and robes, Jacuzzi tubs, balconies, flowers, huge deep duvets and infinity pools were the standard fare. I felt like a bride instead of the mother of the groom! We dressed and walked down to the cabana over looking the sea, where Ted and Shasta exchanged their hand written vows. It was perfect and movie like. Garrett was the ring boy and was so awe struck with the beauty of the place and his new Aunt Shasta that he told everyone he wants to get married exactly like his Uncle Ted in the same place and in the same way. None of us will ever forget our time there together.

We gathered in Nashville three weeks later, along with 300 guests, for a sit down dinner dance reception honoring the new Mr. and Mrs. Pins. I have to say, no prince or princess could have done it up any more beautifully. Ted is now a married man and I have a wonderful daughter-in-law that I love very much. You know what comes next ---------. I can't wait!

On that note, John Jr. and his new wife Megan are expecting their first child together in February. John has two beautiful daughters, Chloe 7 and Evie 5 from his first marriage and now he will have three. I wish they lived closer. Las Vegas is so far from us; however we will make sure we get to see the new angel Noreen as soon as we can. (They are keeping the sex of this one a surprise) There is nothing more special than new life and, to be even the tiniest part of it, is one of God's greatest blessings.

We didn't get to see Annie and Billy this year and visit with our darling Audrey who is now 6, extremely talented and on the honor roll. Texas doesn't seem to be much closer than Las Vegas, and Washington, where Chris lives, seems even further away. The good news, as we hear it, is that all are doing well. We are going to have to work on a family reunion again pretty soon. It has been too long since we all were together. I think I will work on claiming that for next year.

Jenn and Christy are still working together creating and growing SOLVE. It has become a huge operation and is making an incredible mark on the real estate building and development industry. They still live in a wonderful home in the historic part of Nashville. For years Ted and Jenn have lived either next door or down the street from each other. That changed this month as Ted and Shasta built a beautiful new house in the suburbs near us and sold their home in the city near Jenn and Christy. It will be interesting to see how that transition goes. We spent Thanksgiving there and I helped Shasta cook her first turkey. I had a great time passing on cooking traditions to the new young wife. Christy, who aspires to be a renowned author, has had her first book published. It is quite fun to see her book featured in the window of a local book store. She and Jenn have also designed a line of clothing defining lifestyle choices that has had great reception in many markets in different states. It is with great pride that this mother watches talent emerge and develop. As I shared in my last letter, they are forging new traditions for Garrett and their family for the Holidays. So this year we will do Christmas in a cabin in the Smokey Mountains. Some of us will ski, while others will cook and keep the home fires burning. Guess who will do what! I am sure it will be fun; we are even going to exchange gifts in the "Dirty Santa" fashion instead of buying presents for everyone. A $50.00 limit has been set for each of us.

Garrett turned 8 on the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. I think this is a perfect feast for him to share a birthday. Garrett loves animals (all of us have many of them); he has a real respect for nature and a kind and loving spirit. I am going to add a statue of St. Francis to our yard to commemorate Garrett's birth and life; he is such a joy to John and me. He was having a little problem with shyness and focus at the beginning of this year, so John stopped into our local Tae Kwon Do school and spoke with the owner. As with all of life's "accidents" this man, Mr. Smithson, turned out to be an incredible person. He encouraged John to bring Garrett in on Saturday. For 5 weeks, John would sit with Garrett, while he watched the class, enthralled but afraid to participate with the other kids. Then one day, Mr. Smithson asked him to meet with him privately. He asked Garrett if he would join the class if they had a lesson alone, just the two of them. Garrett agreed and immediately got up and did everything he had been watching, perfectly. We were all amazed. From that time on (since last February), he has made incredible strides and changes emotionally and socially. He is now a purple belt and has broken 4 boards with his special kicks, barefooted; he is doing well in school and has taken up the guitar. We are very proud of him as you can tell.

John and I celebrated our 20 year wedding anniversary, May 10th of this year. Neither one of us, due to our past track record, ever thought we would reach this long standing milestone. After several marriages, and starting over, you wonder if you have it in you. However when it is right, there is really little effort in loving the person that is half your soul. I wanted to commemorate this event with a once in a lifetime trip, or a spectacular ring, or maybe both, however other obligations and the wedding made either of these things impossible. On the actual day of our anniversary, we took the time to enjoy each others company, have lunch and look for the perfect "gift" to give each other. We stopped in at the yard pottery shop, where we thought we would pick up some cute bench or little "couple" statue we could plant in a prominent place in our garden. Our choices seemed lame and rather boring. As we continued on our quest, I spotted a tattoo parlor on a busy corner in a rather seedy part of town. I jumped in my seat and shouted," That's it"! John thought I was just joking or worse yet, lost my mind. But, for those of you who know me, when I get these flash inspirations there is no diverting my energy away from the goal. I convinced John that this was the perfect inexpensive, yet monumental way to memorialize our achievement. He finally agreed, but said we had to find a reputable, clean establishment in order for him to participate. So how would two 50ish people go about finding such a place right then, you may ask? We called our children of course! They knew just the spot, but couldn't believe we were going to have the deed done. So while the entire family watched on the 10th of May 2006, we permanently marked our left forearms with a matching tasteful, yet stylish, number 20. John insisted if we were going to do something so bizarre, it had to be in a place that was visible most all the time for both of us. That left out a discreet ankle, back or thigh. So now everyday I see, and then give thanks, for the us that continues to be.

Each of us went back in time this year, to the days not so long ago, when we were naïve, young and full of hope for a life yet to live. 1966 was a good year. It was the year I graduated Alemany High School in the San Fernando Valley of Southern California. What a time and place to be 18. The class of '66 began to plan the reunion of all reunions to be held October 28, 2006. A website, along with a blog was created by some very dedicated and loving classmates and we all began to reconnect after 40 years of distance. The majority of the 390 classmates that made up our group came together and started to share their past and their present. Pictures were posted, memories were revived and the years melted away. For 6 months we read each others emails morning and night to see who had joined in the fun. It was amazing how little we had changed on the inside, even though the outsides were showing a bit of wear and tear. Finally the time came and we traveled back to our precious Valley and our school, where we spent 3 glorious days and 5 memorable events reliving an era long gone. How could 4 years out of 58 forge such a bond with this group of people? Maybe it was that time of our life, where everything seemed so important and life changing, or maybe we were just special. I know that time stood still for those few days, and the essence of who we are and the relationships that sustained us during those times were fresh and alive. What a lasting forever memory!

1967 was the Year That Was for "The Rose Garden" and their hit song "Next Plane to London." Oddly enough 2006 was the year that their old manager contacted the boys and convinced them that they needed to revive themselves and let him book them for some oldies but goodies gigs, resurrecting the original songs and sound. This was a dream come true, the chance for 4 lifelong friends to relive the past, the part of their lives that was magic. The time when they were rock and roll stars!! So, John, Jim, Bruce and Bill began to meet here in Nashville to rehearse and bring it back! They spent 4 separate weeks here at our house pouring heart and soul into the task. They hired a new girl singer, Gay Dement, from the Boomerang band, had their pictures made, cut a CD and performed live, for the first time in 37 years, at a local club. What a high that night was. They sounded great, even better than they did way back when. We are now waiting for the organization of some road trips to put them back on stage across the country. Isn't nostalgia something?

Speaking of nostalgia, we got to take a real trip down memory lane when we visited California in October. We shared good times with Meggan and Brandon, my sister and nephew, and hosted a family gathering at her home. We visited with Larry and Linda, John's brother and his wife, and took a day trip with them to Catalina. We hadn't been there since our wedding. We stopped in at the church we were married and recommitted our love in the same spot we stood 20 years earlier. We stood on the porch of the house that once was our honeymoon shack, and sat on a bench by The Casino. I vividly remembered New Years Eve 1986 when John asked me to marry him out on the Casino balcony after a big band dance. The day was beautiful and the Island was just as we remembered it. We rode home on the boat at sunset and marveled at how lucky we were to see "our special place" again, knowing, that that would probably be the last time we would. We have so many places we want to experience together before our time here ends (Tahoe being one of them) and I am not sure we will be able to fit another Catalina trip into the agenda. We'll see—maybe!

We took the time this year to see, kiss, hug and laugh with family and dear friends. We drove by the homes we lived in as children and checked out our schools. We visited the homes in Valencia where I started my adult life and raised my children. We went to the cemetery's where our parents are buried and soaked in the beauty and peace of those serene places and talked about what we wanted done and where we wanted to be when we no longer walked the earth. We spent hours remembering the past and how it shaped us, looked forward to the future and the circle of life as we saw it unfold.

It is always good for the soul to explore life's journey. How can you know where you are or how far you have come, unless you look back and see where you have been, or look ahead to where you are going? I do know one truth about the journey "wherever you go there you are." My hope and prayer for us all is, that we like who we have become and are content with where we are. If we are not, now is the time to change course. The journey is ultimately short and is over before you know it. Look at your map, fill up with inspiration and get going. There is so much more to do!

May the life we live, and the path we share, keep us mindful of our connection to each other now and forever AMEN!

Everyone here wishes you a Joyful, Merry Christmas & a Blessed New Year.

Love Always,
John and Bobbie
Ellie, Barney, Midi, Rocky, Sylvester & Sophie

Christmas Wishes from our Mother Blogger

Check out http://amothersperspective.blogspot.com/

This is what you'll see ...

Wednesday, December 06, 2006

As The Mother Blogger Thinketh

Peace.
Frustration.
Action.
Time.
Exhaustion.
Work.
Decor.
Float.
Hurry.
Celebrate.
Family.
Entertain.
Flights.
Juries.
Fame.
Snow.
Homemade.
Purchased.
Friends.
Warmth.
Love.
Health.
Fools.
Music.
Tales.
Peace.

Peaceful wishes of all things good during this special season and throughout the New Year.

Mother Blogger.

I'll return to the blog in January.

Merry Christmas from Bobbie Noreen Mosher

Click on this link ...

http://badaboo.free.fr/merryxmas.swf

Bobbie sent this on 12/6/06. It's a cartoon featuring the song "White Christmas" by The Drifters, recorded in 1954.

We hope your Yule is cool.

Love,
Danny

TERI'S CHRISTMAS TEQUILA COOKIES

It's that time of year again for our favorite cookies! CHRISTMAS TEQUILA COOKIES

Ingredients:

1 cup of dark brown sugar

1 cup (2 sticks) butter

1 cup of granulated sugar

4 large eggs

2 cups of dried fruit, such as dried cranberries or raisins

1 tsp baking soda

1tsp salt

1 tsp fresh lemon juice

1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts or pecans

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 bottle Jose Cuervo Tequila (silver or gold as desired)

Directions: (Prep time: Who knows?)

Sample the Cuervo to check quality.

Take a large bowl, check the Cuervo again, to be sure it is of the highest quality,

Pour one level cup and drink.

Turn on the electric mixer...

Beat one cup of butter in a large fluffy bowl.

Add one teaspoon of sugar...Beat again.

At this point it's best to make sure the Cuervo is still OK, try another cup...just incase.

Turn off the mixere r thingy.

Break 2 leggs and add to the bowl and chuck in the cup of dried fruit,

Pick the frigging fruit off floor...

Mix on the turner.

If the fried druit gets stuck in the beaterers just pry it loose with a drewscriver.

Sample the Cuervo for tonsisticity.

Next, sift two cups of salt or something.

Check the Jose Cuervo.

Now shift the lemon juice and strain your nuts.

Add one table.

Add a spoon of sugar, or somefink.

Whatever you can find.

Greash the oven.

Turn the cake tin 360 degrees and try not to fall over.

Don't forget to beat off the turner.

Finally, throw the bowl through the window,

Finish the Cose Huervo

Make sure to put the stove in the dishwasher.

FELIZ NAVIDAD, from the amazing mind of Teri (Arteaga) Romero, with an assist from her faithful Santa Dog, Louie.

"THE MOTHER OF ALL REUNIONS"

(The Lizzy (Pack) and Lenny "School of Dance" will soon be open for those who didn't find their way to the dance floor on Reunion Night)

One week after the fact, and our 40 Year Reunion is still the No. 1 occupier of my thoughts and the smile hasn't yet left my face. Thanks to Dan, Marty, Bob and so many others for making that Saturday night 'The Mother of All Reunions.' In 60's terms, 'A Happening', and it truly was that. This was an evening that was emblazoned in our minds and will be cherished in our hearts for the rest of our lives. The vibration in both rooms was like a giant bee hive. In every inch of floor space, people were talking, laughing, exchanging stories of 'Remember When' and updating histories of where we are now. And lotsa' hugging, and a little dancin'.

(Dave Gieg and Frank DiPasquale, Bill Merriken and "Pani")

Like many others this past weekend, I was part of a pre-reunion reunion that took place at the 'Casa de Borquez, Hilltop Hacienda'. Rick invited as many Mary Immaculate 8th graders as he could find. Too bad so many email addresses weren’t posted and couldn’t be contacted. There I met up with my old school friends and partners in mischief, Rick, Don Soberg and Bill Merriken, as well as Jim Pinero, Dave Geig and my 'Ol Paison, Frank De Pasquale. It was a Great evening and only made us all that more anxious for the following one. And worth the wait it was.

Our Reunion was a virtual snowball of anticipation, planning, sharing of pictures and bios that led up to One Fantastic Evening. It encompassed every aspect of our school days up to the present. The 'Roll Call' was an immediate flash back, the video had 'take a deep breath and exhale slowly' moments and the acknowledgments of all those who came from long distances, were PhDs, survived Cancer, married their High School Sweethearts and for the first time in mylife, being recognized for being a Viet Nam veteran. It was all put together so well and the planning Dan & Crew did was remarkable.

In a way I feel the reunion was also somewhat of a closure for myself and I think maybe for others as well. I felt a feeling of contentment when I got home that night (ahh... morning) one that I hadn't felt before. The kind of contentment that I think only comes after a several decades of life on this earth. The good and the tough times we have all gone through, that all culminated in One Great Night in October. One that will remain with us forever.

Thank you and God Bless you all

Leonard DiTrapani aka... Pani :o)

Pomona CA

Wobbly Axis Steadied At Reunion

(Charmaine (Haley) Coimbra displaying her usual sense of humor)

Dear Classmates:

Spouse and I just parked our car back in NM an hour or so ago. It's Nov. 1, 2006 and I remain overwhelmed by this thing called a 40-year Alemany High School reunion. My throat is still sore from so much talking, revealing, catching up and reliving 40 years away from that blue senior sweater.

Like the emails and commentaries before me, there were so many former classmates on my list to spend time with that when it was announced that the Cinderella carriage of connecting was about to turn into a pumpkin at midnight, plus when I realized my wonderful spouse was sitting outside on a bench alone, I dropped my velvet jacket and made a mad dash out. (Really, I dropped the jacket instead of a shoe. If anyone found a burnt-black and copper velvet 3/4-length jacket, let me know.)

So I didn't get to give Kathy Jones a farewell hug, as well as, never having time to sit and chew the desert flowers with Marty Molidor. But I did get one heck of a smacker from Jay P! And I also brought home Big Boy Bob! KOYN!

And to everyone who was so kind with kudos to "A Mother's Perspective," I am humbled. This week the blog gets a new name, thanks to an unedited Dan McMahon notation, "Charmaine's a mother blogger."

"Mother Blogger" perfectly fits my weird sense of humor, and so shall the blog be renamed.

You reunion committee members: WOW! Thank you so much for creating a unique and special weekend for the 100-some 1966 Alemany graduates.

(Ed Note: (L) Charmaine and Daughter Dakota, the Executive Chef at the Hollywood Sunset Towers Hotel where Charmaine hosted the "Women's Luncheon" on October 27th, and (R) with pal Teri (Arteaga) Romero)

"Overwhelmed" best defines last weekend. While the earth spins off its axis, I bravely cruised up the Sunset Strip to West Hollywood, entered a fantasy hotel (The Sunset Tower) and kick-started 48-hours of my own wobbly axis rotation.I walked into a world where I was the 17-year-old waif, Char Haley.

Charmaine (Haley) Coimbra

Santa Fe NM

"MORE REUNION REFLECTIONS"

(Terry Bowles with his lovely daughter, Courtney. Who started the rumor that this was Terry's wife?)

At first I was not planning to attend the reunion because of some business obligations and admittedly some indifference on my part.

When I received Jay Pelzer's e-mail asking me if I remembered the record we used to play on the reverb in my car, well, it struck a nerve and I decided to change plans and attend.
Yes, I remembered the instrumental we cruised to. It was "Walk Don't Run" andJay's response to me was, "You are the real Terry Bowles."

Some friends asked me what were the highlights of the reunion and without question it was the renewed fellowship with a great class of people. Memories of Al Shows introducing my daughter as my wife, his medical advice (I hope he doesn't send me a bill}, and his warm inviting nature and meeting his lovely wife made me feel at home. Ken Meddock and Bill Merriken passing along a compliment about my role as Lt. Cable in South Pacific was really unexpected and truly appreciated. Thanks, guys. But, Ken, my vote for least changed would have been for you and Art Holquin, at least among the men.Jude Hawkes has my vote for the ladies.

Meeting with Mary Ganssle, Bobbie Mosher, Kathi Gibson, Teri Arteaga, Jacci Mahoney (who I mistook for Ellie McConnaughy when I saw her at our Church sitting behind me a few years ago – I blame it on my age), and all the beautiful ladies was just wonderful. Thank You.

(Courtney's reaction after hearing the Bowles' Party stories)

Seeing Jay again was amazing and reaffirmed the decision to attend. My daughter learned a lot about her dad from Jay and Al Shows (maybe too much). She now has secrets about me and the parties we used to have at my parents' house.

After meeting up with Dave Gieg I remembered that last time I ran into him (literally): it was at basketball practice and all I recall was hitting a brick wall. Dave, it was great seeing you after 40 years.

What would a reunion be with the teachers who touched our lives in so many ways? Frank Diaz (I still feel I should call him Mr. Diaz and still don't know the difference between a microbe and an electrode), Father Wagner and Mrs. Gordon. (Being one of the only boys in her typing class was so much fun.)

Art Holquin, Tom Benedict, Larry Neumeier, and Kerry Beaulieu as they concelebrated Mass reminded me of the spiritual bond we all share through our Lord Jesus. It was truly the best way to celebrate our coming together. Thanks, Fathers.

The next question put to me by my friends: was there anything that was not upbeat? For me it was learning about those classmates who have died and have serious illnesses now. But it was very evident through the e-mails how much prayer and spiritual support we have for each other. And this is atrue blessing our class has in common. It was sad not to see old friends like Dave Surges and Bob Johnson. Dave's suggestion about meeting in Duluth next time may have some possibilities. Bob, thanks for your work on the reunion.

So many thoughts and feelings are flowing through me; it is hard to put some of them to words. My sincere thanks to Dan and the reunion committee. Your hard work paid off. I'm sure the whole class was touched by the love and affection you and your gals put into it.

May God Bless the Class of 66.

Love,Terry Bowles

El Dorado Hills CA

THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES

(John and Bobbie (Mosher) Noreen ready to party on reunion night)

Hi All,I had a wonderful time. It was as if time just melted away. I thought we all looked pretty terrific! 1966 produced some incredible people. To those of you that I finally got to really talk to---thanks for the memories!

There are so many I didn't get to talk to or hug goodbye. Louise Franco, here's a big hug and kiss from me. You are a doll, just like you were in school.Pam and Jerry, Roger and Margie, I will always remember the old days. You too, look great and I am so happy you are still together.I could go on and on. Maybe there will be a romance bloom from the reunion, but I am not telling whom!

Thank you Claudia, Danny, Mary, Monique, Charmaine and all of you who worked so hard to make this time together so special.When I get home on Thursday I will send my pictures in an album too, there are some great shots. I was the only one from my grammar school (St. Cyril's) who went to Alemany, so I didn't get in on the grammar school photos, but what a special thing to have that all-inclusive childhood together.

A big hug and kiss to all of you for welcoming so warmly back into the fold. You will always be a part of me.As I told Leo, we should have all married him. There would have been a lot fewer divorces.

I can't wait to visit Frank in Hawaii and if any of you ever want to experience the South, my home in Tennessee is always open. Nashville is a great town to visit and I will make it worth your while. See you in 5 or 10, maybe sooner.

xoxoxox

Love Always,

Bobbie Mosher

Franklin TN

UNITED STATES VETERANS

ALEMANY CLASS OF 1966

Mark Belmont (Air Force)
Bob Cosgrove (Army)
Leonard J. DiTrapani (Vietnam 1969-70)
Les Dunkin (Vietnam 1969-70)
Bobby Guerrero (Vietnam 1969-70)
Robert M. Johnson (Air Force 1970-72)
Wayne Jzyk
Bill Killian (Army, Vietnam 1968-69)
Bill Ludgate
Brad Kopp (Army, Vietnam 1969-70)
Ken Matwiczak (US Army Air Defense Artillery, 1971-93)
Martin D. Molidor (Navy 1969-72)
Bob Morneau (USAF, Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Airbase, 1970-72)
Rex Olliff (U.S. Army, Fort Ord 1970-72)
Bob Orlando (Coast Guard, 1970-74)
Jay Pelzer (Air Force, multiple trips into Vietnam 1971-73)
Jim Poltl (Navy, 1966-69)
Guy Proto (USAF, 1969-73)
Ned Ryan (Navy)
Don Soberg (Army Green Berets, Vietnam)
David C. Surges (Viet Nam 1971-72)
Richard Weier (Navy, 1968-71)
Ronald West (Navy, 1969-72)

Details of Service

Bobby Guerrero. Drafted in July, 1968, took an extra year (3 year enlistment) to guarantee a school, ended up in Personnel School. Started active duty 9/30/68. Boot camp and Personnel School at Fort Ord, CA. Also assigned there for an additional 6 months. Shipped out to Vietnam on 10/1/69, landed in Cam Rahn Bay and was assigned to Personnel Services Company (the Fighting 518th PSC, WE DON'T RETREAT, WE BACKSPACE!!). Served 364 days, including 2 visits to Thailand for R&R. Left Viet Nam on 9/30/70 with a Bronze Star for Meritorious Service ... 11/1/70 assigned to Oakland Induction Center in downtown Oakland, at the height of the Black Panther Party movement. Oakland was more dangerous at that time than Cam Rahn Bay, there were daily demonstrations and protests at the Induction Center, including some vandalism caused by explosive devices. Wearing your uniform on the street was a no-no, although the haircuts were a dead giveaway. 7/21/71: Got an "early out" from my enlistment to return to college, was awarded a Joint Services Commendation medal for Meritorious Service. My cousin, Richard Guerrero (AHS '67), an Air Force vet at the same time period, likes to tell me, "We never got a parade." I think anyone who served, wherever they served, deserves the honor of their service. Thanks, Bobby Guerrero

Bob Johnson. Graduated Loyola University in 1970 and was commissioned a 2nd Lt, USAF the same month. Assigned originally to pilot training, but washed out due to a previously unknown eye condition which kept me from flying at night ... Assigned to Ellsworth AFB, Rapid City SD from August 1970 to December 1972. Executive officer in the 28th Bomb Wing. We flew B-52's and KC-135s on missions originating in Guam and Thailand (don't know if that is still classified!). Also ran the secondary Airborne Command Post for SAC headquarters on a rotating basis with Offutt AFB. Did some additional training at Keesler AFB in Biloxi MS, was down south right after the big hurricane ... The most positive thing that I did while in the AF was a volunteer assignment rescuing flood victims from the Great Flood of '71 in Rapid City, SD ... God gave me a reprieve on December 24, 1972 (a date which I still celebrate each year with a prayer for my lost friends) and let me resign my commission a year and a half early to head back to law school. Lt RMJ

Bill Killian. I was drafted in 1968 while attending (then) Valley State College. While stationed in Georgia I volunteered to go to Vietnam, spent 13 months there in the Central Highlands attached to a South Vietnamese infantry unit as a radio operator. I stayed an extra month to get out the Army early. That's it for me.

Brad Kopp. I enlisted in the military (Army) in Feb '68, because I knew my draft number was coming up. I was in Vietnam from July '69 until the end of June '70 as a helicopter pilot. Upon my return I was stationed at Fort Wolters, Texas, a basic helicopter training base. I was a helicopter pilot instructor there for three years. I had volunteered to go back to Vietnam a year later but was told no because I was needed as an instructor. Thank goodness, why I wanted to go back is beyond me. But when your 21 years old you think you are infallible. I retired from the Army in 1989. As far as other people in the military I know that Bob Cosgrove was in the US Army for three years but never went to Vietnam.

Bill Ludgate. Just to let you know I served at that time but didn't get to go over to Vietnam. Also seeing all these emails since I'm going thru chemo and radiation now is a great help. God bless all of you. Bill Ludgate

Ken Matwiczak. Commissioned 2LT, US Army Air Defense Artillery, West Point, June 1971. Retired as Lieutenant Colonel, August 1993 ... Did not serve IN Vietnam. (Volunteered to do so, but Army had other ideas) ... Places served: Karlsruhe, Germany, 71-74 ... Fort Hood, TX (Killeen - just north of Austin), 75-76 ... Fort Bliss, TX (El Paso), 77, 82-86 ... West Point (Faculty), 79-82 and 89-93 ... Purdue Univ (for Masters Degree on Army time and Army fellowship), 78-79 ... Texas A&M Univ (for Ph.D. on Army time and Army fellowship), 86-89.

Marty Molidor. US Navy Feb 1969 to Dec 1972 ... Bootcamp and tech training (Radioman) San Diego, CA ... Two years NATO Southern HQ, Naples Italy ... 16 Months aboard USS Nashville, Atlantic Amphibious Fleet - Caribbean Ready Group ... We attacked Puerto Rico (with Marines) repeatedly, just in case Cuba ever needed a Thumpin.

Bob Morneau. I enlisted in the USAF in September '68, and was immediately shipped to Keesler AFB, Biloxi, Miss. with no training as a security policeman! I learned the hard way! Then off to Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Airbase, Thailand, in June, '70 for a year. We were a top-secret base supporting the war effort in a tactical fighter sense. Gunship raids and major rescue missions were staged every day from our base, and we were always on alert for incoming Pathet Lao sappers and bombers. I had the job of patrolling the perimeters with my "Heavy Weapons" crew, and was trained in mortar weapons by the Green Berets from Nam. The Air Force had a ridiculous policy of sending us on patrol in the jungle off base armed with only a bayonet, after receiving intelligence reports of Pathet Lao activity in the area assassinating village chiefs! I could go on and on. I finally finished at Luke AFB, Arizona, in September, '72.

Bob Orlando. I also served during Viet Nam. I was in the Coast Guard (June 70 - Sep 74) with time in Southern Thailand (remember the Stigo visit), in support of our efforts, for 366 days. Went to Con Son Island off the coast of So Viet Nam to assist with operations there on one occasion; flew in and out in a few days. I joined the Coast Guard to stay out of Viet Nam since my brother, Michael (AHS '64), had about all he could handle there; didn't kill him but nearly did in my parents. I came back in June 1972. The Coast Guard had me fly commercial air, TWA, out of Bangkok in civilian cloths, so I would not be hassled or spit on as I went through the terminals. I did look sharp though, in my custom handmade silk suit, but the short hair, that what was left, was my Achilles heel. My friends were supportive, event the hippy law students I hung with in San Francisco. I'm glad I can say I did; would not want to do it again.

Veterans Day is important to me. Having lived in a foreign country and seeing what a vote is worth and that it is worth fighting for, I take pride in my service. I've only missed one privilege to vote since I was of age. The Flag flies over my home everyday and night (with lights; solar lights). I think Ron's apology is not necessary; many served; the unfortunate took the brunt. Anyway, thanks for the thoughts. Regards, Bob O

Jay Pelzer. USAFA 1966-1970 ... Pilot Training 1970-1971 ... Mather AFB, Sacramento 1971-1976 ... multiple trips into Vietnam 1971-1973 ... Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio Graduate school 1976-1977 ... Offutt AFB, Omaha, NE SAC Headquarters 1977-1980 ... Offutt AFB, Omaha, NE Pilot, 55th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing 1980-1982 ... Hellenikon Air Base Athens, Greece 1983 -1987 Chief of Current Operations for Strategic Reconnaissance ... Yakota Air Base Tokyo, Japan 1987-1990 OIC Command Advisory Function ... Retirement July1, 1990.

Guy Proto. I was in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. I was in from February 1969 to February 1973. I was stationed at Eglin AFB in Florida for a year and Andrews AFB in Washington DC for three years. I was in the technology end of research and development.

Ron West. Enlisted in the US Navy in Nov. 1969 ... Bootcamp: San Diego, CA ... Air Traffic Control School - Glynco, GA ... 1969 to 1971 Naval Air Station Kingsville, TX ... 1971 to 1972 Naval Air Station Midway Island ... May 1971 to Oct. 1972 Naval Air Station Barbers Point HI "All Navy Volleyball Team" ... Discharged Nov. 1972.

WE SALUTE YOU.


If we missed any of our class's Veterans, please email us
so we can correct it. See email links on main AHS-66
Blog page, above in right column.


http://thewall-usa.com/summary.asp

http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/

http://www.military.com/veteransday?
ESRC=ggl_mem_vetday.kw&np=1

http://www.army.mil/cmh-pg/faq/vetsday/vetshist.htm



Posted Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2006

"TINGLY" REUNION REFLECTIONS

(Oscar Rivera and Leo, old buddies together again)

It has been 10 days and I am still tingly all over from all the emotions from attending the reunion.

Top kudos are definitely in order for the 1966 Reunion Committee who brought all of us together and put on the best celebration of our high school years. Thank you, thank you, thank you all!

The Grand Prize goes to Danny McMahon whose unselfish nature, long hours, and enduring love for our class gave us all a beautiful night and a moment in time to renew our friendships and to again bond as a class.

I was fortunate to attend the Mass and to get Fr. Kerry Beaulieu to hear my confession. I asked if anyone will be hearing confessions and he and I walked over to the side of the church past the pews and Kerry started, Let us pray. I figured that we would be there well past the reunion dinner so I asked if he could do a general confession. He obliged. I am pleased he did since I went blank and could not remember if I had eaten meat the previous Friday.

Ok, now. This question is for all the other recovering Catholics. When did the Church stop saying the Mass in Latin?

It was good to receive communion. It was even more special to be in communion with my fellow classmates and especially to attend the Mass being held by Kerry, Art Holquin, Larry Neumeier and Tom Benedict. That was quite an honor. And, it was also emotional when we honored our classmates and teachers who have passed away. The homage from Tom Benedict was quite moving as well.

Also thanks for the open bar. I had earlier sprained my back and those first 3 martinis did the trick!

I knew the reunion would be good but I never expected all the fun everyone was having. If you were not discussing old times you were catching up on new times. And, it did not matter if you were a great success or a shmoe. You were a part of the Alemany 1966 class and that in itself made you special and accepted. That is all that matters to this class. That is why we were honored to have people like Jay Pelzer and Chuck Abel, et al, who attended the reunion. Even they felt the calling to attend even though we didn’t graduate together. Now that is a great class to belong to!

You did not have to be talking about old times. You could just raise your eyes and view your fellow classmates enjoying themselves across the room to know that this night was a reuniting of special friends.

Master of Ceremonies, Danny McMahon, is a class act and a stellar organizer. His updated slide show was a phenomenal work of artistic quality and again brought the class back to the era of innocence of the mid 1960s. I vote that Danny be presented with an honorary Academy Award/Alemany Award Oscar (Rivera) statue next time we meet. I’m sure we can get Oscar to pose naked while someone chisels out the statue.

Kudos to Marty Molidor for his great expertise and technical achievement in getting the slide show converted to CD. We cannot wait to get it. I know several of my local friends will be blown away by this historical collage of the 1960s.

Kudos to my dear friend Bob Johnson for coordinating the pictures and website tasks. Bob, you did us a great favor in posting the pictures of us. I have misplaced my Recuerdos yearbook and this was a fantastic way to get to see our classmates. Bob, we all missed you!

However, it appears that a majority of our classmates do not age. There must be some elixir or additive someone put in the Alemany holy water. I want to say this for the record. We have the best looking group of people, period! The ladies are truly beautiful and the guys are, well, the ladies are truly beautiful.

It was great to see the old teachers. Mr. Diaz looks the same and Coach Phil Ahn has the memory of an elephant. Truly amazing!

Upon reading many of the post reunion emails I find that I too felt the reunion went too fast and we should meet again soon. I think we should all meet at the Meddock house next year, Saturday October 27, 2007. Whatdya all say to that? Ken, do you have a BBQ?

Kudos to everyone who posted and emailed pictures of the reunion and pre/post reunion events.

I missed the brunch. I was devastated. I forgot to set my clock back for daylight savings and went to the Odyssey too early. Noone was there so I left. I went to the church to see if our classmates were attending Mass. I went inside for Mass and found that I was the only person there who was not Japanese. I gotta tell you that was a strange feeling. I thought I was still feeling the effect of those 3 martinis. I did not remember everyone being so short!

Yet the joy and fun persist in memory today. I was not able to greet and meet everyone I remembered. I also wanted to introduce myself to all the classmates who I did not know personally and get to know them. I especially wanted to meet the ladies who never crossed the quadrangle and remain mysterious to this day. I did want to meet them and be continually amazed by their lives and achievements. But like I said, the achievements do not matter. What matters is that they were a part of our class and I'd like to get to know them.

I would like to tell everyone I did get to meet that I was privileged to know them and honored to be their friend. I choose not to mention names since I would forget one or two and probably run out of paper in the process.

This reunion made my heart glad and I look forward to our next reunion together.

Your classmate,

Leo Restrich

Simpsonville, SC

(Ed Note: It would not be appropriate to post this blog without a thank you to Leo's much better half, Marianne. To those spouses who trusted the Alemanians to return their loved ones undamaged, even if a bit weary, you have our heartfelt thanks.)