I have been asking everyone for pictures, biographies and all other sundry things. Thus, it was suggested by another, namely Donna, that I should do some writing of my own. I considered it and, at first, rejected the idea. Then, after some reflection, I decided that Donna had a point and that it would be appropriate that I do share some thoughts.

Some of you have already figured out that I consider this web site to be a very important endeaver. Others of you will be wondering why, after nearly 40 years of no communication, that I'm so committed to what we are doing together.

As we go through life, most of us are caught up in our own invincibility and only have thoughts for our families and employment aspirations. I decided early on to become a Trooper (never wanted to work any other area of law enforcement) and have successfully retired from that vocation. My livelihood has depended on my body and it's ability to perform and the old frame held up well throughout my career. I never used a sick day during my last 13 years on the job. This well being continued on into retirement but I got a rude awakening in August of 1999.

August 16, one week to the day after our return from a 2 month vacation, I had an aneurysm burst in my head. Everyone I talked to afterward made it a point to let me know that I should have died. In fact, I still hear the same today. I know how fortunate I've been and can only conclude that the man up above wasn't ready for me yet. Why? I don't know but I've realized that all my breaths since have been a bonus. Thus, I have the opportunity to do many things, one of which is to find and renew friendships with my former classmates.

In this same vein, I've been the oldest surviving male member of my family since 1992. I do have 2 aunts surviving but both married into the family and don't have many of the answers I've been looking for. It's a sobering experience when you suddenly realize that there are no parents, uncles, etc., to ask questions of. Now everyone is calling me when they have need for answers or advice. It was tough to make that transition but it had to be made. Having lost so many people near and dear, relationships and friends have become more important and I've come to cherish them immensely.

While not having seen any of you for years, I have begun to treasure my memories of what we (as a class) had together. I didn't actually graduate with you but all of my memories reside with you. I attended 3rd grade through the 11th grade in Cherryvale. I played in the band from the 7th grade through the 11th. Memories abound and all of you are intricately interwoven within them.

Without trying to sound melodramatic, you, your memories, your thoughts, etc., are very important to me. I suspect that some other class members may have similar thoughts. I only want to help bring the memories alive and to aid in enriching the lives of all through our little medium known as the "Class of '61." Please continue to help in the endeavor and enjoy the fruits of our effort.

Looking forward to seeing each of you next June. Oh yes, still looking for information, pictures and suggestions. See ya.......