Checkpoints

May 2007

Margy Dingle wants everyone to know that she is so appreciative of the many calls, cards, concerns, flowers, memorial donations, and prayers given by the class during Bob's struggle with pancreatic cancer and again after he passed away.  As any who have lost a spouse know, it is a rocky road starting with numbness, frustrations, low concentration, many tears, endless paperwork, etc.  Some of that is still a part of her, but she does see progress and is holding on to the message from others who have gone this journey, and that is that the sadness and feeling of loss never go away, but they DO get easier.  That is the light at the end of her tunnel....or is it the beginning of her rainbow?

Mark Anderson got on the ski slopes for six days this year, which is nothing to brag about if you live in Colorado or Utah, but from San Antonio, it was a good year!  Ginger and Mark have decided to forego any overseas trips this year and focus on places in the US they haven't seen.  Their first stop was to visit Yosemite National Park, following a great weekend at Brice's Hospice of Sonoma event. Spectacular scenery!  They highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't been (both Yosemite and Brice's event).  Mark is still working with the Fisher Houses at Lackland AFB, the local AOG Chapter, and nudging along the hotel initiative.  They continue to be blessed with continued good health, which is a bigger blessing each day. 

Bob and Cathy Best are still enjoying the life in the Ozarks.  After five months the new house is still not "in the dry," but they still have hopes of being in (but not settled) by Christmas.  The local carpenters do not have the work ethic Bob and Cathy have enjoyed elsewhere.  All work stops for fishing, deer season, turkey season, squirrel season, coon season, rabbit season, and anytime there is even a hint of rain in the forecast.  Bob has doubled up on his high blood pressure medication.  He is beginning to wonder why, at his age, they even started this project. 

John Boesch said that Lydia was recently in Germany visiting her brother, an engineering professor at Cal Poly, who is in the second year of a teaching exchange program at a university in Munich. She returned in time for her first of six triathlons she is doing this season.  John is the "pit crew/cheerleader."  Both are still "balls to the wall" in their fight against forced annexation of their community.  John had a 70-hour trip to CA in April to celebrate the launch of Brice's new label.  Back home, John is getting in shape for his first 50th HS reunion, while leading the planning for his second, at his other high school.

Jack Bright enjoyed the Hospices of Sonoma event in California in April, thanks to Brice Jones.  His efforts were greatly appreciated by all, especially Jack.  He had dinner with John and Casey Goodley at the end of April, and they are both doing fine....even though Jack will never understand how she has put up with him this long!  Sam Barazzone has invited Jack to spend a weekend in June with him and some of our classmates in the Atlanta area.  He needs to go so that he can meet his wife, Gwen, and get her up-to-date on his activities while a Cadet. Meanwhile, Jack is just enjoying watching the San Antonio SPURS keep winning!

Dave Carlstrom and Rees Wagner both attended the NIT Final 4 basketball game at Madison Square Garden. Though seated on opposite sides of mid-court, Rees spotted Dave.  Those eye operations must have been okay, but losing by 1 point was hard to take.  It reminded them of the re-union game.

For those not on our Gray Tag Network on-line, you may not know that Johnny Caughman and Don Grant have had major surgery. Johnny said that he is well on the way to recovery and would like to tell everyone how proud he is to be associated with such good men as our classmates.  He has had encouraging calls and get well cards from classmates that he hasn’t heard from for "ages".  Sam Barazzone, Jerry Gill and Mike Rawlins even went to his house to "buck him up"! The fact that he is alive is only part of the miracle that is his blessing.  To be a '61 Gray Tag is one of his life's greatest accomplishments. Don is on the road to recovery, but I’m sure would appreciate receiving a telephone call, a card, or a note.

Tom and Anne Eller’s grandson has accepted an appointment to the Air Force Academy in the Class of 2011. It was touch and go since he also received an appointment to West Point. He visited both schools in April, was very impressed by both, but finally chose USAFA. Regarding the hotel initiative, Mark Anderson and Sam Hardage will brief the AOG board on 12 May. Randy Cubero, Terry Storm, and Tom will be there for moral support. The feasibility study by consulting firm PKF is underway with results due in a few weeks. Sam Hardage is funding it. Members of the Hotel Initiative are: Mark Anderson, Lee Butler, Randy Cubero, Tom Eller, Sam Hardage, Brice Jones, Hector Negroni, and Hanson Scott. Some recent actions taken include briefing Lt Gen Regni, USAFA Superintendent, and receiving a favorable reaction; garnering support from a group of distinguished graduates; receiving support from the AOG Capital Campaign Steering Committee; and briefing the CEOs of three major 501(c)(3) organizations supporting USAFA. They plan to brief the AOG Class Senate soon.

50th Anniversary Celebration of '61's 1st Day Admission to USAFA as Cadets at the old Lowry AFB is a "GO" for July 5, 2007. Contact Dick Fairlamb, Jim Hinkle or Dale Tabor NLT June 1 if you will attend these planned events (they need to know!):

Hotel - Hilton Doubletree Denver Southeast 303/337-2800

July 3, Tuesday - Free time; Local Attractions?

July 4, Wednesday - Hospitality @ Hotel; Noon Golf; Dinner at

Pesce Fresco Restaurant

July 5, Thursday - 1st Day 50th Anniversary; 1000 hours @ Lowry;

Catered BBQ Lunch; Story Telling & Reminiscences; 1500 hrs

@ Wings Over Rockies Museum @ Lowry; 1800 hours Cocktail

Party @ Hotel.

July 6, Friday - Hospitality @ Hotel; Revisit Wings Museum;

Noon Golf; Free time.

The schedule will be on our Class Web Site "soon" www.usafa1961.org.

Although summer has not arrived yet, Bill Foster is planning for the Navy vs. USAFA game in Annapolis at 1300 on Saturday, September 29.  (The forecast is for 'no rain.')  As usual, he and Theda will be hosting a victory party, and Bill will be purchasing a block of tickets. So, if you want to be included, please let Bill know EARLY that you want tickets to attend.  (Two years ago, he was unable to accommodate late wishers for tickets which he purchases through the USAFA Sabre Society when they become available in early June.)  At present, the cost of tickets is unknown.

Lowell Jones reports that another great luncheon for the DC 61ers occurred on April 12, at Legal Sea Foods in Tysons II.  Attending were:  Pat Buckley, Charley Dixon, Bill Foster, Steve Ho, Lowell Jones, John Kohout, Jack McDonough, Spike Nunn, Tom Pattie, Jim Rogers, Bill Sanzenbacher, Bill Stackhouse, and Twy Williams.  No need to say it was a lively group.  The man of honor was Steve Ho who is departing this month for Birmingham, AL, where he and Lynn will settle for a while but still remain on the DC Roster to join the group when they come back for family visits.  The DC group told Steve and Lynn that they are part of their family too.  They agreed.  Steve volunteered to pay for everyone's lunch, but everyone vetoed that and dug into the DC Kitty and found enough there to pay his bill.  He wants all to know that their new place is open to all if you're in the Birmingham area.  Bill Stackhouse made a commitment that is now written in stone - their new home (closing in on 5 years in the making) will be ready for a house-warming party in June (of this year) if you believe it!  He, Spike, and Twy made the 2+ hour trek from the Northern Neck of VA together - a rarity to get all three at the same luncheon.  A good way to fight the gas prices.  Jack McDonough had just returned from a trip to Denver.  Jim Rogers gave a pitch on where he and Linda are in the organization for the party celebrating our classmates meeting each other in Denver 50 years ago.  It will be at the Westwood Country Club in Vienna, VA on July 1st.  More to come later.  Pat Buckley, still surviving in Albania, had the longest commute to get there of course.  Marilyn made the trip with him this time, so she joined Sandy and Lynn at another table in the restaurant - far away from the guys, so they could talk.  Charley Dixon, Bill Foster, John Kohout, Lowell Jones, and Tom Pattie were their normal selves and tried to keep the rest of the guys under control.  Their next meeting will probably be the July 1st reunion.

Jerry Lefton is happy to report that his recovery from heart surgery is still going well.  He is in cardiac rehabilitation three days a week, and it is a 36-session program.  He is also playing golf again although not very well.  His short game is very rusty from the long layoff.  The US Women's Open golf tournament will be there 25 June to 1 July.  Jerry will be a marshal on hole #3.  Thanks again to everyone who sent cards or e-mails or called him on the phone after his surgery.  It meant a lot to Jerry and also to Sue.  They will be going to Attica, IN, on 9 June for his 50th high school reunion and then going on to Arlington Heights, IL, to see their daughter, son-in-law, and grandson.

Charlie Neel, our Class Senator, said that most of what they have done to date is cajole recalcitrant classes to appoint a senator and to get their "procedures" written for approval of the AOG Board. The clear "issue" of greatest interest of the Class Alumni Senate is the upcoming discussion and decision of the Board concerning "The Foundation." That will come to a head after the new Board is convened this summer. Meanwhile, everybody VOTE for new Board members and weigh in on your opinions about "The Foundation" and where we as a class think we should go. For details on these matters, visit the USAFA AOG website, www.usafa.org.

Hector Negroni summarized Brice’s latest annual Hospices of Sonoma function, which benefits many charities including the Barry Zito Foundation that benefits

wounded troops returning from war zones. Brice Jones orchestrated the 4^th Annual Pinot Noir Barrel Auction Celebration, 19-22 April 2007.   The 61^st Tactical Fighter Squadron (Mythical) was present. Among those classmates and friends in attendance were Brice Jones and Susan Porth, Hector Negroni, Pete and Patti Lane, Dario and Iris Collado, Charles and Gina Thomas, Jack Bright, Sam and Viviane Hardage, Jim and Joy Darnauer, John Boesch, Bill and Betty Kosko, Jim Wiltcher, Dean and Jo Jones, Lanny Lancaster, Bob and Jan Brickey, Charlie and Linda Neel, Greg and June Boyington, Jim and Peggy Hinkle, Jim and Linda Rogers, Mark and Ginger Anderson, Dick Thompson, Bob and Winnie Wagner, Burke Mucho and Ben Malisow. The festivities began with a Thursday night dinner hosted by Brice at the World Famous Zazu Restaurant, Santa Rosa, CA.  After consuming an ample supply of grilled and marinated vegetables, olives, cheeses, and breads they rolled right on to the marinated white anchovies.  This was followed by the delicious salad of backyard lettuces.  For the entrée, they had a choice of Grilled Scallops, Braised Chicken or Grilled flat iron Steak.  All this was washed down with copious amounts of Brice’s unique "Fighter Pilot Red." The entire group was up early Friday, boarded luxury vans, and by 11: 00 they arrived at the Laurel Glenn Winery where the owner, Patrick Campbell, gave them a first class tour of his winery.  This was followed by an "alfresco lunch."  During the lunch, Brice distributed a new squadron blazer patch and a newly designed pair of Squadron boxer shorts. After lunch they returned to the hotel for a small siesta to recover for the evening’s main event, the Dinner Presentation and Launch of Brice’s new Pinot Noir’s line of wines: Emeritus and William Wesley.  The world class dinner was prepared and served by Nitzi and Pat Rabin, Proprietors of the famous "Chillingsworth Restaurant" in Cape Cod MA.   The first course consisted of Lobster Salad, Seared Scallops, and Corn Custard and was accompanied by Sonoma Cutrer’s Chardonnay Les Pierres.  The second course consisted of Tuna Tournedos and was accompanied by Emeritus Pinot Noir Wine.  After an intermezzo of Pinot Noir Sorbet, they engaged the main course: a pesto crusted Roasted Rack of Lamb accompanied by William Wesley Pinot Noir.  The dessert course and coffees were equally world class.   During the dinner, 61^st TFS (M) members presented Brice with his very own leather flying jacket. They began the Saturday main event bright and early with a VIP Barrel Tasting activity followed by a tasty BBQ at the Emeritus Vineyards.   That evening, the entire Squadron and Comfort Ladies attended the Pinot Noir Barrel Gala Dinner, Auction, and Artistic Presentation featuring a live performance by Eddie Money and his band.  The dinner was another extravaganza featuring superb appetizers, wild Pacific Salmon, Roasted Duck Breast, and the normal good things that accompany a world class meal.  The almost half a million dollars collected during the auction will go to benefit a host of charitable organizations. On Sunday, the Squadron moved operations from Santa Rosa to Larkspur and early Sunday they boarded a ferry boat that took them directly to AT&T Park, home of the San Francisco Giants baseball club, who were hosting a visit by the Arizona Diamondbacks.  From their excellent vantage point they saw the Giants beat the Diamondbacks and witnessed a kilometric homer by Barry Bonds.  After the game, they returned to the Hotel, freshened up and met for dinner  at Il Fornio Restaurant in Corte Madera where they feasted on Sea Bass, Roasted Chicken, Mesquite Grilled Tenderloin, and mouth watering homemade Ravioli.  Once again, Brice managed to bring a bunch of bottles of Emeritus and William Wesley. Bob and Winnie Wagner spent an extra few days in the Bay Area with old high school friends, and even had more wine in the process. Well, what can I say?  Those who attended carried away fond memories and those who missed it will never know the fantastic experience that they missed.

Susan and Jimmy Poole just returned from his 50th reunion in Mobile. It was great fun; however, lots of old people were there. John Payne also attended since his wife of 1 year graduated with Jimmy. The Graytag Redneck Riviera Reunion in Orange Beach, AL is scheduled for Oct 19-22 (Friday afternoon through Monday morning.) Mark your calendars for those dates, and detailed information will be out in June. Three beach homes are reserved (20 BR - 20 Ba), and 14 rooms remain available. Jimmy can get additional homes if the demand warrants more homes; however, there will need to be sufficient to fill a home before the home will be reserved. Motel accommodations within ⅓ mile are also available.

Bill Sanzenbacher said that Jack and Linda Taylor stayed there the last week of April for four cram-packed days of touring Monticello, the University of Virginia, some of the Civil War battlefields, Alexandria, and more. They managed to have lunch with John Kohout in Alexandria, and also with Terry Norris there in Fredericksburg. Terry and Bill have been neighbors for the past 5 years and manage to share some golf experiences occasionally. Bill said that he hated to see them go, but it was a blast from the past. They capped each day with some fun card games there at home. They also managed to finally answer the age old question that puzzled the Sphinx- namely how many Graytags does it take to screw the cap onto a water bottle. After observing Jack and Bill in action, Linda decided that the answer is definitely two.

Smokey Stover traveled to San Diego for the Air Force - San Diego State basketball game in early February. The game was a bummer. In fact, it was the start of the end of season swoon. The team righted itself in the NIT, to end up with the most wins in AFA history. He stayed with Haven and Roberta Hill in their great place, only a short rock throw from the beach, and he played golf with Haven, Wayne Jones and Rob Pollack '63. All played better than Smokey, but he doesn’t think anybody had more fun. Haven puts a lot into his drives, and he's got a lot to put into them! He would like to join those hearty souls that will be at the "Old Lowry" digs on 5 July, but he already had a family commitment. Raise a glass for him.

Tom and Laraine Sutton, since our ‘61 reunion, have added two grandchildren to make a total of 20.  Three weeks ago they married off another of their ten children, which has made it a pretty busy few months.  They were honored to have all ten children at their house for a week or more, along with the 20 grandchildren.  Tom said that he is lucky to have had an Air Force career that offered him such a wonderful life for 30 years and now is in a position to enjoy a full pay retirement that gives him the freedom to devote time to helping shape the lives of 20 of the next generation. They'll be driving to Johnstown, PA, in June to help welcome number 21 to their ranks.  Then they'll stop and visit all the other children who don't live in Utah and Wyoming. 

Charlie and Gina Thomas left for the Florida Keys on 2 May. They will be with their daughter Jennifer and her two daughters. They plan to "swim with the dolphins" sometime during the week. Also, the Brice Jones wine auction was a great event this year, with a good turnout by ‘61ers.

Nancy and Twy Williams are doing the usual spring things--gardening, swapping storm windows for screens, mowing grass again, and, of course, preparing the boat for launching. Azaleas are in full bloom, and the weather is warm again.  Corn is coming up even in some of the fields that were planted before the mid-April cold spell, so life is good on the northern neck. Twy’s brother, Dan, and he are planning a sailing trip to Maine beginning 22 June.  Since for them it is "the going" more than "the getting there," they will mostly day sail.  Their focus will be Penobscot Bay, but they may get to Bar Harbor for old times sake.  On the way home they plan to meet Nancy and Twy’s daughter and granddaughter after their three-day cancer walk in Boston (3-5 August) and celebrate Twy’s 70th with a sail around the harbor and islands followed by some good Italian food. They plan to arrive back on the NN by the end of August. Their wives are happy to be left at home, but may join them for a few days along the way.  They are waiting to see how it goes before committing.  They will see how well Dan and he handle that much togetherness.

Jim and Nancy Wilhelm finally returned to Colorado Springs from Arizona on May 6. Their return was delayed because Jim went to the hospital for an Ablation procedure on his heart. He came through with flying colors, and should have no further problems of fast pulses. He has no restrictions and everything went well. His pacemaker is still running smoothly. After their return, it started snowing in C S. They always save the last snow for after they return just so they won't miss one of Colorado's snowstorms.

Tom and Judy Wilson survived his 50th HS reunion.  It should come as no surprise to all who know Judy, but she was made an honorary member of the Sidney Lanier Class of 1957! They look forward to seeing everyone at the Lowry festivities in July.

Nelson and Teri O’Rear are beginning to think that maybe there is something to getting older since they have two grandchildren graduating from high school, as well as an AF son pinning on his eagles about the same time. And, all this time, we thought it was only you who were getting older! Life remains good, as we both can still visit with our mothers. (Perhaps we have been mistakenly judging our relative youth against their mid-90 ages.)

As an added bonus, at no additional cost and for your viewing pleasure, we offer a picture of our very own Jimmy Poole and his lovely bride Susan attending Jimmy’s 50^th:

Checkpoints--Spring 2007

We lost two great classmates this quarter: Bob Dingle and Karl Whitaker. Their biographies are in the Gone But Not Forgotten section.

Bob passed away from cancer on December 1, 2006. John Moore and Les Schneider attended the memorial service for Bob on December 8^th in Spokane, WA.  It was conducted by family members in a simple, yet touching way.  Bob would have approved.  One of the highlights was the flag ceremony, playing of taps, and rifle volley which was done by the Fairchild AFB Honor Guard.  They did our service proud.

On January 12^th classmates Charley Dixon, Bill Foster (and Theda), Steve Ho (and Lynn), Lowell Jones (and Sandy), John Kohout, Bill Sanzenbacher, and Bill Stackhouse helped provide goodbye to Karl.  The Graveside Service at Lake Park Cemetery was moving and memorable, with the flag ceremony performed by two young Air Force airmen and "Taps" by another airman.  Jeff Whitaker (one of Karl's four sons) gave a short talk and reminded everyone that Karl wanted the following reception to be a celebration - and they complied.  The reception was at Botto's Italian Restaurant, the meeting place for every event in Swedesboro, NJ, and included a large buffet.  The comments from family and the seven Class of ‘61 attendees followed.  Each classmates provided his favorite Karl memories and then they sang "Here's a toast..... and the Air Force song".  Three other Air Force members, including one from USAFA ’66, joined them in song.  Dianne and family were a Class Act, greeting and embracing all guests with charm and grace.  Karl would have been proud of them for making it such a meaningful and wonderful day for all.   

Bob Brickey, Stu Boyd, and Clair Carling are trying to finalize the 'Utah Ski - AFA' 61' event. They are set to begin February 22--24th in Ogden, UT, at the Marriott Hotel. Call 801- 627-1190 and ask for the AFA 1961 group rate of $80.00, which is good 3 days before and 3 days after and includes a full hot breakfast. Come ski the 2002 Olympic venues and share a grand time with classmates and visit, tour, socialize, ski, swim, lounge, escape into a beautiful winter setting with the greatest classmates in the world! Come join in.

Bill Aylsworth says that the Aylsworth family has moved.  Last summer they bought an existing house on a lake south of Miami and spent many months in renovation.  It is still not done, but they’re down to details.  All the pertinent information relating to address and phone is listed below. They’ve already had a number of guests.  Among names recognizable to our group are Gene and Judy Davis, who went to Miami for the book fair in November. As part of the reorganization, Bill and his daughter Vestalia, still his partner in Aylsworth & Aylsworth LLP, moved the law office to a more southern location and closer to home.  They’ve added IRS tax relief to their repertoire, along with wills, trusts, probate, and real estate.  So, if you forgot to pay your taxes, give them a call. Bill’s contact information is: 12307 S.W. 143rd Lane, Miami, Florida 33186, Telephone: (305) 402-1400.

Ken Ballien is retired from General Motors after 32 years and living in Tellico Village in East Tennessee. Chess Mizell also lives there.  The Balliens take one big trip each year, and this year, they are going on an Alaskan cruise, combined with a week’s land tour there.

Dee and Doug Cairns spent Christmas in Tuscany, Italy, with their son, Rob, and his family. They are finding off-season travel the way to go because the crowds aren’t there and the prices are better.  Currently, Doug is in therapy for double knee replacement. Physical therapy, that is, although he says mental therapy might not be completely uncalled for.

Richard Davis is still enjoying the high desert of Yucca Valley after a record breaking cold snap about 15 January. Things are very conveniently located, and it does not take much time to get to places there. Still, the area does lack some retail establishments, such as a Target store.

Paul Dean indicated that many graduates in the Dallas-Ft Worth area are planning to attend the February basketball game when Air Force plays there this month. He and several others are also planning for the Moody AFB 63B pilot training class reunion in Atlanta this October.

Tom Hill plans to coach baseball again this spring. He is doing much better since he got his new hip.

Henry Howe said that their daughter-in-law was sworn into the Texas Bar, so now he has to watch the lawyer jokes he tells. Their daughter is in transition training at Little Rock for MC-130s and will finish training at Albuquerque this fall. Peggy and Henry will be in Loveland, CO, at the end of March to celebrate her father's 90th birthday. He said that he thinks almost any place will be warmer than Texas is right now. [I’m not so sure with wind chills in northern Indiana now near -30º F.]

Lowell Jones said that the ’61 DC area contingent had their first luncheon of 2007 at Legal Sea Foods in Tysons II.  Attending were:  Dixon, Foster, Ho, Jones, Kohout, Negroni, Pattie, and Sanzenbacher.  Good excuses (not including those who live miles and miles away) were:  Terry Norris (still recuperating from his prostate surgery, and doing well), Jack McDonough (contractor at his home doing repairs/upgrades), Bill Stackhouse (contractor at his home installing granite counter tops - still building the mansion), and Jim Rogers (vacationing in the Dominican Republic - we'll need a report on that).  No excuses were:  Ron Muller and John Sullivan (both of their remaining un-retired members - so maybe that's a fair excuse - but they still should provide a reason).  They had a great time as usual eating good seafood and telling war stories.  Hector filled them in on the current status of the Class gift for our 50^th and the AOG proposal for a new funding foundation.   Remembering our recent loss of Karl Whitaker, they had a big toast to all of our departed DC area classmates, to include in addition to Karl:  Norm Campbell, Jim Dickson, Karl Kellerman, Darrell Koerner, and Dick Milnes.  God Bless their memories.

To celebrate their 70^th birthday the week of 13-20 January, Wayne and Dean Jones gathered at Breckenridge, CO, with more than 20 family members and friends.  It was really cold, but sunny with no wind, so the skiing, snowmobiling, and dogsledding were perfect.  It was a winter wonderland up there, and they managed to stretch that birthday party over the whole week!  They're going to thaw out with another rendezvous in Cabo San Lucas in February. 

In February, Bob Kellock and Samantha Carlson flew to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, to watch the finishes of Del Rey Yacht Club's PV2007 sailing races.  The Salsa Fleet raced three legs and cruised one to get there, and had practice parties as they went along.  Bob and Samantha attended parties from Sunday through Saturday nights with the organizers, early arrivals, Salsa Fleet, smaller racers, and faster racers, and then as they received their trophies.  Bob was in the Salsa Fleet for PV2003 and Samantha  was delivering a boat from the PV2003 race (acting as navigator, cook, and crew) when they had their first magical meeting in Turtle Bay. [Assuming it happens in spite of snow warnings:]  Bob and Samantha drove to Battle Mountain, NV, to "rescue" "Little Girl Dog," a Pomeranian/Chow Chow mix puppy that was headed for the pound.  Samantha has a long and cherished history with Chow Chows, and this smaller mix makes for easier flying in light aircraft if Bob executes his pipe dream, possibly a Liberty XL2. While Bob still pulls the traces at Boeing-Long Beach, they stay very busy running sailing races for their respective clubs, cruising in Bob's sailboat, and running back and forth to Arizona (Samantha's roots and possibly a retirement home) and Watertown, NY (Bob's roots and 50th HS Reunion), all the while loving life together.

Jerry Lefton recently had a successful quintuple bypass heart operation in Tucson. He is recovering nicely at his son’s home there. Knowing Jerry, he is probably in a countdown to how many days before he can get back to the golf course.

Hector Negroni suggested that if you have never attended, don’t miss this year’s version of the Hospices of Sonoma (19-22 April 2007), organized by Brice Jones.  For further details, visit his website at http://www.hospicesofsonoma.org/ The Hospices of Sonoma is an entirely unique Pinot Noir event, modeled after the world-renowned Hospices de Beaune auction. Each November in Beaune, the Hospices de Beaune represents the new Burgundy vintage's first exposure to the public. Similar to the Hospices de Beaune, the Hospices of Sonoma auction is the only place in the world where the public can barrel-taste and bid on the most recent vintage Pinot Noirs from nearly forty of the world's pre-eminent producers from the Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley Green Valley and Sonoma Carneros appellations. Spend the weekend rubbing elbows with the winemakers and barrel tasting unique wines created exclusively for the event, and prepare to bid on some of the most impressive Pinot Noirs ever to be presented at the Hospices of Sonoma. The net proceeds from this event benefit the WCC Charitable Foundation, which disperses funds to a select group of charities dedicated to helping children at risk and disabled American military personnel and their families.  Brice added that in addition to the scheduled festivities, Zoomies and their wingladies will begin the party Thursday night, 19 April, at which event Brice’s new wine, EMERITUS, will make its public debut. There will be an optional formation on Friday and another on Sunday. He said that this is a really good wine. Those wishing to sign onto the mailing list of this wine can do so by going to www.emeritusvineyards.com. An independent wine critic, James Laube, recently pronounced Brice’s Pinot Noir outstanding after blind taste tests.

Tom Wilson said that they were then experiencing 48 + hours of below zero temperatures, so Judy and he were looking forward to spending the month of March enroute to and returning from Sarasota, FL. They are driving for the first time.  Then they turn around and fly to Montgomery for Tom’s 50th high school reunion in late April.  Like most of us feel, it doesn't seem possible that WE are now the old grads...LIFE IS GOOD.

Nelson and Teri O’Rear have had a quiet quarter, but it was much livelier for a week around Christmas when they had two of their three children’s families there to celebrate Christmas. While everyone had a good time, the children were disappointed at the lack of snow this year. They should be there now! Nelson and Tom Hill plan to get together for lunch soon.

Thanks to everyone who contributed this quarter. Even though not much seems to happen, we are all still interested in hearing about it. It helps us to keep up with you and add another layer to the bonds we already have.

More than eighty classmates cast votes in the election for class officers. Tom Eller was elected President; Earl Saunders, Secretary; Mark Anderson, Treasurer; Hector Negroni, Historian; Charlie Neel, Senator for 2006-07; Terry Storm, Senator for 2007-2009; and Richard Fairlamb, Senator for 2009-11. Congratulations to all seven!

The Class of 1961 Hotel Initiative Ad-Hoc Committee completed the survey of the Class of 1961.    The ad-hoc committee received 109 responses out of a total of 178 contacts for a 61% participation rate.   Of the 109 responses, 82 responses favored the Hotel Initiative.  This means that 75% of those responding favor the hotel initiative.  The hotel initiative will be one of the 50^{th Class gift options that the new Class Officers will consider.  The Ad-Hoc Committee will now proceed to work with USAFA and the AOG to further assess the feasibility of the project.}

Those not able to attend our 45th reunion missed a great time. Our reunion committee and the AOG, especially Lani Wing, did a wonderful job planning it and then ensuring that the plan worked. And, watching the football game in the press box turned out great, providing a lot more time to visit during the game while we enjoyed a very good buffet. Thanks to everyone who had a hand in making this reunion such a success. We hope to see everyone at our 50th.

Bob and Cathy Best have begun construction of their "Dream Home."  They are building on an 800ft bluff overlooking the lake.  Fantastic view!!  The house is multi-level, so with the future in mind, they are installing an elevator.  Or is that negative thinking?  With any luck they should be moving in by October of next year. Meanwhile, the world continues to turn, but in Arkansas it turns a little slower than in the rest of the world.  The fall colors are unbelievable.  Bob finds that he no longer drives like a frustrated fighter pilot, but has slowed to about 45mph and enjoys the scenery. 

John Boesch said that he is borrowing ideas liberally from the 45th Reunion organizers since he is heading up planning for his high school's 50th Reunion.  He now has a greater appreciation of the fine work done by the reunion organizers for the Class of '61.

Bob Brickey and Stu Boyd are planning a Utah ski weekend in 2007.  The dates are February 22-25, the weekend after President’s Day.  They will be at the Ogden Marriott and have reserved a block of rooms.  Look’s as if Stu’s house will be completed, after two years, so they’ll do one of the events there.  They will be sending out the particulars soon, but for those who have attended in the past, things (and the snow) will look much the same.  Brice Jones and the other kamikazes have agreed to slow down a bit this year so others can keep up—but not much.  For those who have not joined them in the past, ski passes are "cheap" for the older set.  They already have about two feet at the resorts, so should be a fun year.  In addition to skiing, they have snowmobiling nearby and the Olympic Ice Sheet is available for those who are into senior figure skating.  E-mail Bob <RebJrb@comcast.net> or Stu <stuboyd@webpipe.net> if you have questions.

  Last month Jack Bright took an escorted trip through the New England states and really enjoyed it.  He said that the group he traveled with was fantastic, and while the Fall colors were outstanding, the best part was learning some in-depth details/folk lore of the history of the founding of our country.  He suggests that if you are ever near the Norman Rockwell Museum, don't miss it.  "You have to see his original paintings to appreciate their greatness!"  Very recently Jack visited John and Casey Goodley at their beautiful home in Helotes, TX.  John was recuperating from major surgery to repair a bile duct, and biopsy tests for pancreatic cancer.  All went fine, and the cancer tests turned out negative!  The most fun Jack had there was making John laugh and then watching him hold his belly trying to ease the pain.  Casey had already begun decorating for the Christmas holiday, and every room was beautiful.  John told Jack that Casey had only six more Christmas trees to put up and decorate!  Of course John was helping as best he could, and within his talents: Casey was allowing him to hang one ornament on one of the trees.   Jack intends to be at the Air Force Academy-TCU game in December, but said he doesn’t plan to play golf.  He said that he would lose at least two balls, and he doesn’t think he can afford that: it hurts just thinking about it.

Dave Carlstrom said that the class did make a good showing at West Point for the Air Force/Army football game.  In attendance were Brice Jones, Charlie and Lynda Neel, Bob and Janice Brickey, Sam and Gwen Barazzone, Judy Moorberg, Pat Buckley and Marilyn Kitching, David and Lilly Carlstrom, Gene and Judy Davis, Jim, Peggy, and Christina Hinkle, Paul Hinton and Colette Marsh, Dean and Jo Jones, Jim and Linda Rogers, and Rees and Pauline Wagner.  Greg Boyington and June Colgan represented the Class of '60. Many other folks were present, e.g. pilot training classmates of USAFA '61ers etc. The activities included a classic Brice wine fest on Thursday night. On Friday, the group took a two hour cruise on the Hudson River, and enjoyed a classic pass in review by the Corp of Cadets on the parade ground, plus a tail gate party at the home of Bob Brickey's sister.  Of course the piece d’ resistance was the 43 to 7 Air Force win.

Dick Davis has moved to Yucca Valley, CA, with 3,284 feet of elevation and adjacent to the small San Bernardino Mountains. Hikers and riders, including Dick, use the horse trails that go up to the ridge, which is just shy of a mile high. He likes the high desert of Southern California. It is quite comfortable in the Fall, but he’s not sure how comfortable it will be in the summer.

Bob Dingle is having a difficult battle with cancer. He and Margy appreciate all your thoughtful e-mails, notes, and prayers.

Lowell Jones said that the DC ‘61ers will be having another luncheon on November 15th at Legal Sea Foods restaurant in Tyson II Mall in Virginia.  Expecting another good turn-out but maybe won't be able to get the details for this input.  They will be missing one of their stalwarts who always journeys to join them from New Jersey.  Karl Whitaker has been in and out of the hospital for some time now with what the doctors call a "stiff" heart.  Dianne, his wife, is keeping them up to date.  Karl is their expert beer partaker (along with Jim Rogers), so they will be sure to have a jolly beer toast wishing him good health.  Some of the Class already knows that Sandy and Lowell’s darling little granddaughter Shannen (6 years old) had two operations last May for a brain tumor.  She still has about 30% of the tumor (which is benign) remaining and has been going through chemo treatments to hopefully shrink the tumor.  They now have learned that she has a rare type of tumor in children called JPA (juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma) with a prognosis of survival up to 10 years at the best.  They would surely be happy to hear from any classmate for any contacts they could make to help in their search for a miracle.  They have hit the web sites (like "fightjpa.org" and "gamma knife") pretty hard, but they could always miss something.  If anyone donates (even $1) through the JPA website, please advise their son (Lance Jones) at joneslfbcs@msn.com so they can track any donations on Shannen's behalf.   A lot of prayers will help them, also.  Thanks to all.

Bob Kellock and Samantha received their rings in early November - her new miniature and his refurbished original - and said they're beautiful.  If nothing else, they'll always remind them of a great reunion, and they thank anyone who did anything about it!  They sailed several races in September and October, never finishing last (as he used to), but learned that a cutter-rigged, full-keel boat (even with a centerboard) doesn't go upwind well enough for buoy racing!  They're still expanding their lives together, and looking beyond Boeing towards retirement somewhere, sometime.

John Kohout and Dave Carlstrom attended the dedication of our Air Force Memorial in Washington. It was a great day for the Air Force.

Doug and Carol McConnell thoroughly enjoyed the reunion, including seeing so many wonderful friends after many years.   The greetings and catch-ups were simply great.  A million thanks to the Committee and everyone else for making us feel so very welcome.   They look forward to the 50th with great anticipation, and they hope to stay in closer "touch" from now on.  Would be nice to know if there are ever any Chicago-area get-togethers from time to time.  Since the reunion they have been extremely busy...moved permanently to what was their summer lake house (4203 E. Lake Shore Drive, Wonder Lake, IL ).  (815) 653-1044.    This was the first time they had to move themselves (no corporate transfer) and it took many trips and one huge U-Haul!  What a job!!  However, they can now settle down to unpacking, enjoying the Fall colors, and visiting close-by grandchildren.  Life is good! They pray for those Classmates that we have lost, and for those with health issues, and for the rest of the gang, and especially for all our young people in uniform!  Thanks, again, for a friendly and enjoyable experience...   God Bless You all! 

Lee McCleskey reports that his operation for a brain tumor was successful. It was benign, and he required only a two night stay in the hospital. At any rate it had caused him to feel wiped out and cold all the time, but that has now been corrected. Other than being temporarily restricted to how much he can lift, pending another MRI and consultations to ensure that everything is back to normal, Lee says that he is doing fine except for possibly eating too much. As a side note, he said it is amazing how much he and Joanie differ on what constitutes 25 pounds—his current lifting limit.

Jerry Mason said that anyone who attended the funeral for Burke Morgan had to have been deeply moved by the Patriot Guard Riders who formed an honor guard. Here is a link to their member forum discussing the event.  

Jimmy Poole and some friends plan a river cruise down the Danube in September 2007, from Budapest to Prague. Eight couples plan to go so far ((including the Cairns, Gills, and Wagners (Bob)). Contact Jimmy if you want to join in.

Dennis Ray and family finished his tour as the Hall-Fulbright Professor of Entrepreneurship in Bulgaria and Romania this summer.  Dennis taught four courses at three universities in two countries during his stay.   Highpoints of the trip included 2 weeks after the grant on the Black Sea in Sozopol where 17 month old Mishka had his first body surfing experience.   Attending a World War II memorial outside of Minsk, Belarus, was another and sadder high point of the trip.   One of three Belarussians died during the German occupation.   The National Day parade was also unique featuring couples on their wedding day, school children with balloons, and preschoolers carrying stuffed animals and pushing toy baby carriages.  Pretty scary stuff from a "rogue nation." Wife Iva and daughter Galina were happy to visit friends and family in Belarus, and Mishka and Dennis spent their time in parks.   Since returning they've settled into their new house in Victoria, BC, Canada, and Galina has entered the University of Victoria as a pre-med student.   Dennis now teaches at Royal Roads University, the site of the former Canadian naval academy.  One of his recent MBA students in international business is captain of the flagship of the Canadian Navy.   About 20% of his MBA students are from the Canadian Armed Forces. 

Terry Storm went on a five-night motorized raft trip down the upper part of the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon over the 4th of July.  Only once did he go inverted (nobody fell out).  180 miles; 50 rapids, several 5's.  He was wet, cold, dirty, sandy, tired, sunburned, and stuffed (great food).  He slept on a cot in a sleeping bag, with sheets.  Only sprinkled once, so didn't use the tent.  He grew out his beard for three weeks and found out that it is pretty gray!  Terry had an absolutely wonderful time while Carleen was playing the slots in Lost Wages.

Byron Theurer said that it's the same old story with SCORE. During the last Chapter meeting, he got up to take a washroom break (something he does more often in his declining years). While he was gone, they elected him to be Chapter Chair. Since their Chapter is in the only "metropolitan" area in Southern Utah, and they hold a charter to promote business throughout southern Utah, they're developing plans to bring a major promotion of small business to all the funky little towns (and their chambers of commerce) in the southern part of the state. In fact, Byron was writing this note while he was taking a break from memorizing a detailed dry run of their "How to start a business..." presentation. In his old age, he’s even learning to speak a little pidgin Power-Point!

Judy and Bud Utendorf thought it was the perfect reunion. They have signed up for the AOG China trip on June 7-19, 2007. Is anyone else in the class interested?  Bud is busy putting together the first ever pilot training reunion for Class-63-A, Webb AFB,  Big Spring, TX. He and others have located all of the USAF pilots and are searching for the six German officers who were in their class. Bill Sanzenbacher lit the fire under Bud and said their class had German classmates come to their reunion. Bud is also setting up his 50th high school graduation in Ohio. Thank heavens for the Internet, computer printers, data bases, spreadsheets and lots of willing researchers. Thanks to Dale Tabor and Mike Rawlins for their input.

Bob and Winnie Wagner returned from our 45th, and eleven days later went to San Francisco for his 50th high school reunion. The principal and staff at Lincoln High have done a magnificent job of turning the school into one of the top two college prep schools in the city. The school has a great story on conflict resolution in a multi-racial environment. E-mail Bob if you need a reference for this uplifting example of hope and promise. They enjoyed the beautiful Fall weather and a great visit with Brice at his new pinot noir ranch. It will be fun to watch him build another killer vino. After three super days at Lake Tahoe, they walked the Golden Gate Bridge on Winnie's birthday, took the ferry from Marin to the newly furbished Embarcadero, and walked up the street for a great dinner with old friends. A great place to return to; just don't listen to the politics! They say thanks again to all of the guys on the reunion committee for their flawless plan and execution. As always it was a joy to see everyone again.

Nelson O’Rear thought he had found a magic driver for his golf game when he rented one in Colorado, so he bought one just like it. Unfortunately, he has discovered that he is not able to hit it nearly as well in Indiana. (It has to be the driver, doesn’t it?) When Mike Rawlins flew to South Bend last Saturday, he and Nelson got together and toured the local area, and had lunch. The tour took in a lot more travel than originally planned because Nelson missed a turn and they ended up having lunch near Lake Michigan. (It’s a good thing he didn’t try to use his Navigator wings to make a living in the AF.) Mike said that he intends to attend the AF/TCU game in December, with a lot of other classmates. Sounds like a good time for all.

Once again, thanks to all who shared for this class news. Currently 33 of our graduate classmates are not part of our Gray Tag Network online. If you are one of them and have a computer, please contact Nelson <ENOandTJO@Ameritech.net>. It is a good way to stay in touch and current with classmate happenings in near real time.

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Reunion--Class of 1961

Classmates and Guests on the Greytag Network,

            We had a number of committee members on vacation this time of year so there were a few less members in attendance for our July Meeting.  We received a summary of our reunion registrations and the numbers are lower than our hotel registrations and so my first suggestion would be to please don’t wait too long to register as some of the fees and rates go up after the first week in August.  Again, you can register by going to the AOG Homepage at: www.usafa.org  and clicking on “Reunions” and then going to “Class of 1961 (45^th)”.  Merchandise sales have also been slow with Polo Shirts coming in first in popularity and our 14 oz glasses and the bucket hat both coming in second as the top selling class items for the reunion so far. 

The first half of the meeting concluded with explaining our options with regard to the photo gallery website for the Class.  There are two basic modes of operation: one as a spectator and second as an editor to your own personal additions to the gallery.  Additions can be made in three ways; creating your personal picture albums (as many as you like), creating your personal diary/blogs (as many as you like) and participating in forum discussions with website-registered classmates and other guest registrants on our Greytag Network online.  As a way to help me encourage others to participate I would first like to have as many classmates as possible get on line and visit our gallery website.  In addition to roaming around the albums that have already been posted by me you will also be able to use the forum function.  In a forum we will be able to "group speak" and, hopefully, I or David Hughes, our webmaster, will be able to answer any of your questions and prepare you for the next stage of participation that of being an editor of your own pictures and items.  In this later editor stage I am seeking around 5-10 "pioneer" classmate volunteers before our 45th Reunion to be the first to register and share their pictures in the photo gallery and their thoughts and reflections in their diaries/reflections for other members of the GTN to ponder and respond back, if requested.  Please, use the following URL, user name and password to become spectators and forum users only and to become familiar with the workings of this most impressive website. 

The URL is: http://afalumni.giph.com, the user name is: greytag and the password is: usafa1961. 

Please respond directly to me at rcubero@adelphia.net after you have reviewed the class gallery website and wish to go to the next level as editor.  In becoming an editor, I would also suggest that you begin by creating two personal albums: One of your current family and another by posting pictures of those classmates who are gone but not forgotten.  By the way, after reviewing the website please make any comments or provide feedback using the "forum" function. 

The second half of the meeting was taken up with a more detailed discussion of the Chaney King Bike Ride Run which will be an optional reunion activity for Saturday, September 9th, for those classmates and guests who wish to participate in this unique event.  Chaney King was a young female cadet who died in a car accident on January 18, 2003 in her sophomore year.  She was a Falcon Scholar who attended Northwestern Preparatory School in Crestline, CA, before being admitted to the Academy.  After being admitted to the Academy the following year, she proved to be a highly motivated and involved cadet and thanks in part to her family and the Falcon Foundation an annual Bike Ride/Run is conducted in her memory at the Air Force Academy.  September 9th, 2006 will be the Third Annual Chaney King Bike Ride Run sponsored by the Falcon Foundation and approved by the Senior Staff to be conducted at the Academy.  I call your attention to our most recent edition of "Checkpoints-June 2006."  On page 50 you can find an article explaining the purpose and activities associated with the upcoming Chaney King Bike Ride Run in September.  For our class if you would like to register for the event all you need to do is contact me via e-mail and let me know your wishes.  You can rent a bike and helmet (charges are in addition to the registration fee) for the ride or you can bring your running/walking gear and participate in only the run/walk portion of the event.  For a special Reunion member registration fee of $25.00 per person you can participate.  Your registration fee will allow you to have lunch and, if you so indicate to me, enjoy the company of a cadet for the awarding of door prizes and the viewing of the tot-bike races which occur during and after lunch.  If you have an interest please contact me at: rcubero@adelphia.net.

After we adjourned the meeting, Terry Storm presented his edited version of the video presentation “Expect Great Things” that will be shown at Friday night’s dinner.  Terry did an absolutely outstanding job in shortening the presentation from one hour to 25 minutes in what all of us agree was a seamless edit of the material. 

Warm regards, Randy

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Last modified: 08/14/07