In Lieu Of Our Reunion

Dearest, Most Amazing Woman

2009-06-16T12:52:00.010-05:00

My heart was broken earlier this week by an email I received from Kathy Smith, reporting the passing of our extraordinarily special friend and classmate, Brenda Weare.

I found this beautiful picture of her on Google. There is a memorial article too, in case you haven’t seen it, at this link. It describes her professional life and accomplishments. Naturally, they were considerable. And naturally, she was well loved and deeply respected everywhere she went.

I knew Brenda in high school – met her in Mr. Birkholz’s Biology class during our Freshman year. She sat behind me there, so we ended up doing lab work together sometimes and we talked a lot. We never hung out much, mostly because, let’s face it: I was a dope-smoking punk and she was…well, pretty much the opposite of that – only so much more.

You know how you sometimes tell yourself that the reason you were such a weasel in high school was mostly because you just couldn’t help it, being that age and all? I try to tell myself that sometimes – that I couldn’t help it, I was just a scared and defensive kid, trying to get through those years of helpless hormonal insanity.

But if that’s so true about teenagers, then why is it Brenda was never that way?

I had the honor of being scolded by Brenda every now and then: She hated when I showed off and must have liked me enough to care – since she certainly wasn’t the type that went around policing other kids’ bad behavior (which there was plenty of to police, had she wanted to). She didn’t do that at all – but for some reason she didn’t seem to mind taking the time to try and reason, every so often, with me.

One scene I have replayed in my head more times over the past 32 years than I want to count is from a day that I was in biology class and giving some poor girl holy hell about a misunderstanding she’d blurted out regarding the meaning of the term “69.”

How high-school-conversation can you get?

Anyway, not only did I feel it necessary to correct this sweet girl with a long and painful description of what a “69” really was and the origin of it’s meaning – but also, if I remember right, I even drew some pictures on the table to make sure her comprehension was complete.

Brenda waited for this girl to pack up her books and leave the room after class before she turned to me and said, “What did you think you were doing there? Couldn’t you see how you were embarrassing her? Why didn’t you shut up? Why didn’t you stop?”

It wasn’t just that Brenda couldn’t comprehend my willingness to hurt someone that way just for the fun of showing her how right I was, it was that she really thought I was better than that, and expected more of me. She was challenging me to be the better person that, for some reason, she seemed to think I was hiding under all that.

And we were what? Thirteen or fourteen years old at the time?

Some people you meet in this life just seem to know you. You don’t even have to hang around with them that much – they just have your number right from day one somehow, and Brenda was one of those people for me. It wasn’t that she wanted to be right or to make me wrong –she was just offering a very practical love to me: she was challenging me to be a better person. For some reason, she seemed to believe I was better than the way I acted most of the time, and I'm so grateful she did.

I loved her, that's for sure. And I can honestly say that the impression she's made on my life has been a deep and lasting one.

Talk about one of a kind. I am very grateful to have known her.

With many thoughts and prayers to her loved ones and those who spent their lives with her,

Claudia Nowicki Cunningham

P.S. Anyone else have a Brenda story to tell? It would be so nice if we could share them.

The Cute One In The Little Pink Hat

2008-12-22T09:03:00.010-06:00

That's Brenda. She can't fool me! Looking gorgeous, as always.

For anyone who did not receive Kathy Smith's email this morning, this picture is from a link to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s “Cycling for Survival,” website. It is part of a volunteer fund raising campaign dedicated to research and treatment for “orphan cancers.”

Brenda, as I did not know, is fighting one of these orphan cancers. It is called synovial sarcoma, which I already hate the name of, and which the website describes as, "a cruel malignancy often referred to as the “bad luck” cancer: very rare, no known cause, no known cure. The MSKCC campaign prefers the term “orphan cancer” to remind us that rare cancers are sadly neglected when it comes to funding and research."

If you'd like to learn more, please visit

this link and do what you can to help. I didn't know anything about "orphan cancers" before this, and if you didn't either and want to help, please visit the website.

Brenda, I think I'm pretty safe in saying that we're all pretty crazy about you and that you're in all our thoughts, prayers, and healing visualizations.

With great love and respect for you and your family,

Your Fellow Slackers

Alumni Newsletter

2008-05-27T21:38:00.003-05:00

This is the front and back page of the latest edition of the SHS Alumni newsletter. There's a bunch more in between. If you're interested, join the Alumni Association by downloading the membership form at right, or ask to have it mailed or emailed.

The People We Love

2008-04-01T18:32:00.005-05:00

Hey I just got this beautiful photo of Jill (Salinsky) Schaefer and her boys (names please, Jill?) who says:

If anyone is taking their kids to see Yale, Quinnipiac, Fairfield U., University of CT. etc., I invite them to look us up. I have one graduating UConn this year and one beginning there in the fall.

So that's the first thing.

But she gave me an idea: Wouldn't it be nice to start a collection of photos of people we love or messages like Jill's or both? We could stick them under this post, or if you have any trouble I'd be glad to post whatever anyone sends, or resend the password information if anyone needs that. Would that be all right?

I'm at practicalslayer(at)yahoo.com. And I'm going to find a picture of Robert and Maddie...and maybe think of a message of some kind.

Thanks Jill!!!!

xox

Haven't You Always Wondered But Been Afraid To Ask...

2008-03-12T10:11:00.008-05:00

What kind of punctuation mark you are?

Click HERE to find out!

lc
xox

p.s. I'm a question mark. Whatever, I guess!

Experiment In Video

2008-03-09T17:11:00.009-05:00

I was just adding that little SHOW AND TELL thing on the sidebar for any and all ideas, websites, etc., people want to share, and I wondered if I could upload a personal video, or if it had to be on the internet first. This here experiment is of Madeline Jane trying out her new bike last Spring. And you needn't feel shy about telling me how adorable she is. I can take it.

Just think: if it works, we can show all kinds of stuff up here!

lc!

Winter in Michigan...

2008-02-19T20:48:00.004-06:00

it's really cold and snowy here.
Where is everyone these days?
Claudia, how's Montana? How's that book coming along?
Send pictures!
Love, Anita

Happy Holidays!

2007-12-24T19:43:00.000-06:00

well look who showed up

2007-12-13T15:34:00.000-06:00

Jed Jaworski is bummed that he missed the reunion(we couldn't find him, ) but he'll be in Shorewood Saturday,
December 22nd for an SHS mini-reunion get-together at Kathy Nelsen's house.
Whoever happens to be in town, you're invited!
OPEN HOUSE from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Come as you are.
R.S.V.P.: Kathy's email address is: plora at earthlink.net

Oh I Know There's A Ton Of Great Songs Out There, But You Have To Admit

2007-11-28T10:42:00.001-06:00

This one is something!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING, GUYS!!

2007-11-21T10:04:00.001-06:00

With Lots of Love,

Claud

Sniff!

2007-11-20T09:53:00.001-06:00

Just in...

2007-11-17T14:53:00.001-06:00

Susie Fantuzzi just sent me some pictures with her fiance, Rocky. They are planning to wed in Florida on February 14th of 2009. Congratulations, Susie!

ALSO, today is GRETA LONGREEN'S 50th BIRTHDAY!
Happy Birthday, Greta!

Coffee Break Thing

2007-11-08T10:01:00.000-06:00

My friend Jaye posted this link on her blog today, and it's kinda cool if you're looking to waste a little time in a new way:

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
74
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

That "74" is how many people have my name. You can check out your name by clicking in.

And you can see Daniel's new baby by going to the post below this one.

Also: you can say Hi to Jill Salinsky, who showed up at the BOO post a couple of days ago.

That's all the news, folks.

love,
c

Daniel Has The CUTEST News!!!

2007-11-07T12:43:00.000-06:00

Meet Darling:

And CONGRATULATIONS to Daniel and his wife!!!

Boo!

2007-10-31T11:49:00.001-05:00

And if y'all want to make a tombstone of your own, just click on this link: http://www.jjchandler.com/tombstone/,

and have a great Halloween, you guys!

Happy birthday

2007-10-11T23:34:00.001-05:00

Many Happy Returns, Chris!!!

How'm I Doing?

2007-10-05T08:06:00.000-05:00

Want to find out how you're doing?

Just in case there are any Slackers out there who haven't tried this one yet, they can click HERE to find out how they're really doing.

Have a gorgeous fall weekend, everyone!

Seems Like So Long

2007-09-29T13:52:00.001-05:00

Since we've talked. Or seen eachother.

Thanks to everyone who got in on that group email* and answered -- it was so good to hear from you!

Anyone got any news? My news is all kinda non-news: still working on the book...zzzz. Going to Chicago for Christmas, though -- a Nowicki get-together that should be a gas.

Speaking of a gas, if you haven't seen 3:10 To Yuma, it's worth the dough. And the Bourne one -- holy crap, what fun!

Can you tell I don't have too much to say?

Let me know when you guys want to start planning next year's reunion, all right?

And ah...go Greyhounds!

lc

*if you're reading this and didn't receive the email and would have liked to, PULEEZE write me and I'll add your email to the group. Thanks!

THANK YOU, REUNION COMMITTEE!!!!

2007-07-27T17:16:00.000-05:00

When I think of what it takes for me to organize just having a few friends over for dinner, and then compare it to the work that had to be involved in making invitations, compiling lists, choosing menus, making memory books, orchestrating tours and golf games, and planning picnics...well, I just can't imagine it.

THANK YOU TO ALL PLANNERS AND HARD WORKERS ON THE COMMITTEE FOR A FABULOUS AND AMAZING FIRST-CLASS REUNION!!!!!!!

I mean it, you guys -- thanks!

Claud

It's Showtime!

2007-07-26T14:36:00.000-05:00

Slackers are posting pictures of Our Actual Reunion here:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/shs76grads/

You'll need a Yahoo ID, but they don't ask for much more...

Thanks Everyone!!!!

Hey Dan Berghaus

2007-07-25T22:36:00.000-05:00

Martine and I saved some pizza for you. Oops, I guess not. Yum!
Laurel, YOU were supposed to be here....

REGARDS

2007-07-20T08:18:00.001-05:00

Holly told me that I had better empty Buzz Stephens mailbox and check in here. So, here I am. Sorry it's been so long, and I apologize to all the people who have written to me and gotten no response. But sending emails to me at the Buzz Stephens address is kind of chancey these days. You would probably have more luck reaching me by putting a message in a bottle or throwing a note down a Wishing Well! If you want to be sure to reach me email me at clothedambition@aol.com or clothedambition@yahoo.com.
I will be answering all of you who have written to me in the past few months during the next week. No, I haven't been in jail since my last post, just got caught up in my real time life.
For the past 20 minutes I have been reading all of the most recent posts and have had such a rush of nostalgia it's almost overwhelming, and then to see that video. Dang, you were all so beautiful. I mean, really, you all look like movie stars! And I remember everybody, from Andy Albright to Anne Wettingale. That video really touched me, thanks for posting it. However, I was a little miffed that the original ending was cut off, just because it was so funny. For those who didn't see it (cough) 32 years ago, it ended with me rushing out of the Drama Building doors and trying to coerce Audrey Lockwood into dancing with me. Remember Audrey Lockwood? And you all thought I was a character, hrmmmph! Anyway, suffice to say Audrey was not willing to participate and the movie ended with her beating me over the head with her ever present Samsonite briefcase! Priceless.
I see Sue Fantuzzi has shown up. Funny, I don't remember her from HS, but I sure remember her from the 8th grade and even remember that she once signed my jeans "Sue The Wop" But damn, girl! Where do you get your energy? Just reading your posts exhausted me! It looks like you have been on an interesting journey, and I am glad that you are still full of spunk!
And Todd, hello Todd. I remember the two of us getting into some pretty serious criminal activity when were weren't much bigger than Rug Rats, and now here you are a grand success, and me, well, let's just say I have continued on with my life of crime! Oh, and a word of advice to Chris Twining. It isn't the best idea to publish your address on the net, there is a good chance the Moonies might show up at your door, or worse, Kato Kaelin!
I'm sorry I won't be there this weekend, but I promise to make it to the 43rd annual reunion. And tonight, when you are all at TJ's, if somebody thinks of it, order a glass of Perseco for me, and when you all toast yourselves, raise my glass extra high, because I salute you all, and wish you the very best!
dan b. (no, not bennett, think harder)

Golf Outing Announcement:

2007-07-09T18:17:00.000-05:00

The golf outing will take place at Lake Park on Sunday morning at 10:30am, (just before our family picnic at Lake Park picnic area #2 at 12:00noon.) For those that are interested, please contact Clark Korneisel. You can email him directly:
moregolf00@aol.com

Video of SHS in March of 1975:

2007-06-30T19:29:00.000-05:00

This is 3 1/2 minutes of random silent video footage that Holly took at school back in 1975.
Just click on the picture:

C'mon, guys...

2007-06-28T11:03:00.000-05:00

time to make sure $$ and information has been turned in--

From Susie's Photo Album!

2007-06-16T19:12:00.000-05:00

2007-06-10T16:34:00.000-05:00

Good Sunday to all!
It is graduation day here in "the Bay" and lots of folks are out and about going to festivities and the like on this beautiful, sunny afternoon! I, on the other hand, have a couple years to go. So, spent the day decorating my new rain barrel in the backyard with retro VW Bug flowers and pink palm tree stickers! I have FINALLY mailed my check to Kathy Nelsen Smith and will be at the reunion, which I am looking forward to! Kudos to Debbie Roberts Cordiero for that constant nudge .. I now must work on my hubbie, Dan .. he's a wonderful conversationalist and would have such a awesome time - I think I have until the 1st of July to get extra funds to Kathy for the dinner expense (?) Anyway .. to more important things and the reason why I am posting ...
There was an extraordinary article this past week in the Milwaukee Journal on Jim Meisser and his wife, who are opening up a new bank in Sheboygan. Please take time to read this uplifting article on a classmate of ours whom we should be so proud to have graduated with! My soon to be WFB upperclassman, Meg, helped me to make this a simple task for you and said you can click on the link below to read the Monday, June 4, Milwaukee Journal article ("Banker breaks ground") on Jim Meisser (nice photo, too!) Enjoy - Beth Hoffman Delaney

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=614431

From Joan's kitchen...

2007-06-09T21:44:00.000-05:00

Thank you, Maureen Monroe, for sending some pictures from your scrapbook!!

Slacker Intermission

2007-05-07T17:19:00.000-05:00

Ain't it quiet, though?

At least this way we won't run out of conversation at Aliota's.

Save it up, folks.

It's only...om...9 weeks away?

Is that right?

Celebrate!!

2007-04-20T23:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Happy Birthday, Martine and Anita!!!!

SIS Cutiepies and One for Mr. Meyer

2007-04-10T20:46:00.000-05:00

P.S. Ed David signed my book "Joe Pro." And Casey Calvert signed it "All Pro." Would you guys care to explain yourselves?

"Lake Bluff Indian Guides"

2007-04-05T18:16:00.000-05:00

with their fathers

Calling All Checks

2007-04-05T15:12:00.000-05:00

Have you sent your check to Kathy yet?

Have you sent your memories answers to Rebecca or Kathy yet?

No time like the present.

Thanks!!

SURPRISE! It's Jimmy's birthday on Monday...

2007-04-01T12:54:00.000-05:00

and his wife and daughter threw a surprise party for him Saturday night. We didn't get a picture of everyone at our meeting on Saturday, so here is a shot of some of us at Jimmy's. We all got cool party favors to wear.

SHS JV Basketball 1974

2007-03-31T22:35:00.000-05:00

CUUUTE, or what???

and here are the frosh

Meeting Here (minus the snow)

2007-03-27T08:44:00.000-05:00

Kathy Nelsen is hosting a reunion get-together this Saturday, March 31st, around 2pm
at her home, which, incidentally, was where Don Byrne lived during high school. If you can't find the place, call or email someone--

Please bring any completed forms, if you have them, and a check would be great!

The Spain Trip

2007-03-24T21:44:00.000-05:00

Look what Debbie Roberts found! These were part of the slide show at the 20-year Reunion. On the left are: Debbie, Patti, Cindy, Sally, Mary, and Peggy. On the right: Al, Holly, Todd, Terry, Bano, Debbie, and Cindy.

Mr. Baumeister's Sixth Grade at Atwater

2007-03-23T07:18:00.000-05:00

Thank you, Eddie David, for sending this one. Now we have to figure out the names on this one....

A Moment of Silence

2007-03-21T17:08:00.000-05:00

I would like to pause a moment; I think that many of us involved with this blog were aware that Claudia's father was quite ill. Now, since his passing, this may be a good place to leave condolences, for those that wish. You can click here to see the obituary.

And now from St. Bob's:

2007-03-20T06:05:00.000-05:00

(Thanks to Julie Paque!)

MORE Lake Bluff class pictures...

2007-03-10T20:37:00.000-06:00

(from Deedee's collection)

Digital Projector needed

2007-03-05T10:13:00.000-06:00

Does anyone own a digital projector that we could use for the slide show presentation at our reunion at the Hilton on July 21? Please reply either here in the comments, or call or e-mail someone on the committee.

Lake Bluff Scrapbook Archives

2007-03-02T19:18:00.000-06:00

OK ladies, check out this Brownie Troop Fly Up Day photo from 1967! Remember crossing the bridge and looking at your reflection in the "water" (a mirror)? And how about those huge paper flowers we made and held in this pic?

It appears aged photos are enjoying a rerun, so here's even more of a brain teaser, Mrs. Jensen's A.M. (Junior) Kindergarten class from 1962-1963 ... and Senior Kindergarten thru 3rd grade below - while we were still so cute - with those bow ties, cardigans, special dresses, shiny shoes and most often parent-styled hairdo's!

I know these photos are likely to bore those who didn't attend Lake Bluff - sorry! I was

having so much fun with scanning at Kinkos that I ending up putting all my class pics onto a CD, so here is 3rd thru 6th grade and more classmates to identify. You all enjoy and be sure to

have a good weekend. Beth H.

Sixth Grade

2007-03-02T16:32:00.000-06:00

at Lake Bluff School

2007-02-23T22:37:00.000-06:00

Story's 6th Grade photography...

2007-02-23T16:45:00.000-06:00

2007-02-22T06:47:00.000-06:00

Oh, no--

2007-02-21T20:44:00.000-06:00

Nathania Wallace left before we thought to snap a picture!!
We still need someone that knows how to do a Powerpoint presention to run the slideshow. Any volunteers?? We liked this spot for our meetings-- lots of space, lots of goodies, and the guys can hang out in the basement & play pool.
Our next get-together will be here, as well, on Saturday, March 31st. Hope you can make it!

Top Ten Favorite Jokes

2007-02-14T23:06:00.000-06:00

But I'm only telling one, and it goes like this:

Me: Knock-knock

You: Who's there?

Me: Interrupting cow.

You: Interrupting cow wh...

Me: Moo moo moo moo moo moo moo.

Okay, one more. This one came from Woody Allen in Annie Hall. You probably remember it.

Two women are having lunch together in a restaurant.

The first one says: God, the food here is awful!

And the other one says: Yeah, I know. And such small portions!

Okay. Your turn.

Claud

Reminder:

2007-02-12T22:20:00.000-06:00

Reunion meeting at Kathy Nelsen's house in Shorewood this Saturday, February 17th, at 12:30pm.
Everyone is invited. There will be coffee, and since that is Laurel's birthday--
we'll have cake in her honor.
If anyone wants to bring treats, feel free to do so.
If you need the address, you can email Anita, Claudia, Kathy, or pretty much anyone that is involved on the committee....

I'll Be Looking At The Moon, But I'll Be Seeing You

2007-02-07T09:56:00.000-06:00

(Soon.)

In Lieu of Our Improvements

2007-02-02T14:22:00.000-06:00

I got a request the other day from Greta asking if it was possible to time/date stamp our COMMENTS so that people will know when in the heck some of these conversations took place, and for...you know -- history's sake.

Done.

Excellent idea, Greta!

Claud

New Project at SHS:

2007-01-31T23:28:00.000-06:00

Newsbreak

2007-01-24T09:42:00.000-06:00

Really just an excuse to say thank you to all you slacker sweethearts who've been checking in with me about my Dad and all.

I just spent a week in Wisconsin. My Dad is all set up now with hospice care and I am so grateful to have been there last week. I have an amazing family and the greatest Dad.

I can't wait for our night at T.J.'s -- God that is going to be fun.

love claud

p.s. will "silent auction" poster please make a copy of that post for "Our Actual Reunion" blog, too? I want to be sure that we all remember it when we think of the actual reunion and what to bring. It's such an excellent idea. Thanks!

Do you have something to donate to the 31st Reunion Silent Auction?

2007-01-22T13:48:00.000-06:00

Have you recently come across a piece of SHS memorabilia that you'd like to donate to a new home? Are you a creative soul who would like to share your craft with others? Or, do you have something of interest that others might find useful or enjoy having? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then we would like to talk to you! How was that for a sales pitch?!
We are seeking donations for the SHS 31st Reunion Silent Auction to be held Saturday evening during the reunion. Donations can include SHS memorabilia, handcrafted items, items from your business, or put your creativity to work and come up with something fun or unique. All proceeds go to the SHS Class of '76 Scholarship Fund.
Please contact Jodie, Patti, Martine, or Thalia if you'd like to make a donation or if you have additional questions.
Thanks!

Here we are

2007-01-19T12:54:00.000-06:00

We got together yesterday at the Stone Creek coffee shop, again, to sort out what needs to be done for our upcoming reunion that will take place on July 21st at the Milwaukee River Hilton in Glendale. The most important thing right now is to find all the members of our class, and get a commitment from those that wish to attend. (The Hilton wants the money up front, please.) Look for notices via blog, email, or snailmail. If you don't hear from us-- contact someone, please! Also, start thinking about perhaps donating something to the auction.

Anita, Patti, Kathy, Jodie, Peggy, Greta, Bill, Martine

And What Are YOU Doing, Anyway?

2007-01-16T09:10:00.000-06:00

I have links to a couple of sites that describe what a few of us are up to. I'm going to post them here and keep adding as you guys send more.

If you have a website or company website that let's us know what you're doing, where you work, or what you're interested in, send it over and we'll post it here. Thanks!

Andy Brauer: www.andybrauer.com
Daniel Edelstein: www.warblerwatch.com
Monica Geist: http://masterpeice.faithandmusic.com/
Bob Harrison: www.statrixblog.statrix.com
David Haugh: www.ritehite.com/
James Loots: http://lootslaw.com/
Mike Messner: http://stone-design.com/
Dave Meyer: www.dma4families.com
Claudia Nowicki: www.practicalvampireslayer.com
Matt Rossi: www.barkriverracing.com/
Bill Schulte: www.robertsonryan.com/

Holly Tappen: http://www.arts.state.mn.us/exhibit/Tappen.htm
Joan Walsh: www.salon.com

Dan Berghaus: http://movies.groups.yahoo.com/group/thejudygarlandexperience/

and: http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/BillieHoliday_And_The_Disciples_Of_Swing/

Psst!!

2007-01-15T14:53:00.000-06:00

See Super-Slacker Joan Walsh tonight, Monday January 15th, on MSNBC's Scarborough Country -- MSNBC @ 9:00 p.m. EST. Check local listings for times.

Our Actual Reunion Blog Is Now

2007-01-09T16:58:00.000-06:00

We now have a blog for all Actual Reunion news and information. You can get to it by clicking on the link over there (look left), or by going to http://ouractualreunion.blogspot.com/.

Just as on this blog, anyone can post a topic by signing in as practicalslayer@yahoo.com and using our password. If you don't have the password, just email claud41c (at) yahoo.com.

Our 2007 Reunion

2007-01-09T09:17:00.000-06:00

Some of you have identified the need (again) for one central area in which to post all our reunion plans and ideas.

How about right here?

If you have any announcements, questions or topics for discussion, even if you have posted them somewhere else before, please post them here again so we can have them all in one place.

July 21st is coming up so fast I can almost taste it.

A Degas For All Seasons

2006-12-31T14:00:00.000-06:00

This one's for you, Peggy. So sorry to hear about your toe and the flu, too! Awk!

Get well soon, toots!

And the best of all new years to everyone!!

Physical Bond II

2006-12-27T09:57:00.000-06:00

Well...in trying to balance sexual representation on our blog, I have lost my original post. My apologies to those who commented.

Cough.

Anyone seen any good movies lately? I loved this one.

Happy Holidays

2006-12-24T10:30:00.000-06:00

to all of the bloggers, and those that are just looking,perhaps future bloggers...
and pass it on to those that don't have a computer, yet(Greta!)

Baby It's Cold Outside

2006-12-14T23:22:00.000-06:00

Or at least it is here.

Sorry to have been away so long and so mysteriously, I didn't intend to be. My dad has been very ill and I've been pretty busy with things related to that. And the holidays, of course. I will have to go to the recipe blog and post my recipe for the most amazing muffins I'm making as gifts -- they are made with coconut flour and blueberries. And speaking of traditions, Daniel, I go around to 2nd hand stores every year and collect all the coolest, funkiest plates from the '60's that I can find, then make dear little muffins like these to put on the plates and give as gifts every year. This gives me an excuse to give my friends way-cool plates to keep, since just handing them an empty plate can seem odd. My tradition of 2 or 3 years now, I guess. Maddie helped me wrap some up tonight.

Anyway, I just wanted to explain my absence (just as in high school , I guess) and to wish all a great holiday season.

July 21st is going to be here before we know it.

And this is going to be so cool I can hardly stand it.

with love Claudia

p.s. a little Degas for Story! Hope you are better soon!

Recognize any of these kiddies?

2006-12-09T09:25:00.000-06:00

Can you find any of your SHS classmates in this picture? Look for Rebecca, Andy, Peggy, Jane Cross, Julie Ross, Sue P?, Robin Shore, ...maybe more.

I am still looking for the ones with Claudia in it. Her grade school pic reminds me of the little girl in the movie Wait Until Dark.

Happy Holidays: Your Favorite Tradition (....Tradition)

2006-12-05T00:39:00.000-06:00

What’s your favorite holiday tradition this time of year?

Feel free to Share & Tell…..and I’ll tell you, initially, why I enjoy this time year so much:

First, there’s seems to be a struggle and a challenge on the West Coast to find the feeling of family, given so many of us are newcomers living far away from our roots (That’s me raising my hand as high as possible.)

For example, it was with great chagrin and regret that I bid my first cousin goodbye a few years ago when she and her wonderful family moved to Kansas City from Novato in Marin County, CA where we both lived.

So now Linda and I are without any immediate family in Marin County, though it’s nice her folks are 60 miles away to the south.

Seeking more and ongoing connection and bonding with community, we’ve found surrogate replacements, such as the Swing Dance community (lots of fun!) and (for me) conservation volunteering (local Audubon chapter).

But none of it replaces true family……which is why my vote for a favorite holiday tradition is to send out a plenitude of holiday cards, each with a current photo of our little threesome tribe: me, Linda and our Dogter: Sierra, a sweet-sweet, 12-year-old black labrador.

Getting together with friends at holiday time is also heart-warming…….This year, Joan Walsh, kicked off the holiday cheer in a special way a couple nights ago by inviting us for her Tree Trimming Party. Thanks Joan (!) – and Linda and I enjoyed meeting your daughter, Nora, your siser, and your friends, in addition to marveling at your cool and elegant abode. Great to see you!

Daniel Edelstein, who better get busy with the holiday card sendout (i.e., this year’s version has an artistic Snowy Owl on the cover, one of your Wisconsin winter rare visitors……)

Roads Traveled

2006-11-30T06:47:00.000-06:00

A possible topic for discussion would be the different places people have lived since '76. As someone who never ventured farther than ~68 miles from Milwaukee (not counting vacations and business trips) it's interesting to see where people ended up and how they got there.

It seems like many people are still in the Milwaukee area and in Shorewood (not that there's anything wrong with that, for many of us Shorewood was a good home) but we've heard from people in Europe, GA, MI, MA, FL, CA, MT ... how'd you end up there and where else did you live up until now. School ... jobs ... spouses ... potential spouses ... what took you there, and maybe what drove you away? (that's pretty personal, sorry, share only what you wish to)

This may be good conversation for the future reunion but it would be hard to get around the room and see everyone or tell the story 50 times .... besides, July is a long way off and at our advanced age we may forget what we read here and have to ask again anyways.

David M

Coffee tomorrow

2006-11-24T22:48:00.000-06:00

Thanks Anita for calling this am - I will join in the coffee clutch at 12:30 at Stone Creek. Please can we consider downtown locations - There is lots going on in Economic Development for DT MKE!

Thanksgiving #48 Down

2006-11-24T09:09:00.001-06:00

Isn't that an interesting picture? I can't stop looking at it.

Anyways: Not a big fan of the holiday season over here. I think it has something to do with...well, just the math -- I mean, 48 Thanksgivings? Forty-eight?
And every year I tell myself I'm going to be nice about Christmas, or at least sane, but it's hard when WalMart starts putting out the sweetened condensed milk and tinsel before Halloween. I'm not kidding. Pre-Halloween this year.
So every year I tell myself I'm not going to get mean about this, and every year I end up frustrated and disbelieving of all my friends who stay happy, bake and distribute homemade cookies, put up decorations outside their homes, AND don't seem to gain any weight over the holidays.
And I hate everything and get fatter every year. So that's fair.
48.
Robert and Maddie love, and I mean LOVE it. They even hammered nails into our livingroom wall one year so they could put up a star of lights. And another year they went out and bought a giant red velvet bow to put on the front door. I think I might have misplaced that thing last summer when I was cleaning out our storeroom. Whoops!
Anyway, anyway, anyway. What I came here to say was that I really had a nice time yesterday. We went to our Alano Club (building where local 12-step meetings are held) and got together with a mess of people I knew and some I'd never met before. There was tons of food and not much room, and I crammed myself into a seat between an old guy who looked pretty alone, and a couple I haven't spoken with in years. It was absolutely great.
Before Robert and I went to sleep last night we talked about all the people we know who we can't even figure out how they're buying gasoline, much less health insurance (we don't have any either) or making their house payments. A lot of them are single and well over 50, too. With no kids.
We go to sleep every night in a sinfully comfortable bed with a complete set of clean sheets on it, and have way more food around than we can possibly eat. We're healthy and also take for granted the fact that we have heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. Plus we all like eachother just a heck of a lot around here. And then there's Agatha. Greatest dog ever.
And I feel sorry for myself sometimes because of what, again?
Oh yeah: because I hate vacuming and some days I have to empty the dishwasher twice. Or I have to drive into town more than twice and I'm tired! And I can really get going on this stuff sometimes. You should hear all the weeping and wailing that goes on in my head.
Or not.
There's a little snow on the ground this morning, and Maddie had a friend sleep over last night. She just asked for some breakfast: sausage with french toast. Guess what? We have all the stuff! Lucky us.
After breakfast, I think maybe a little snowball action.

I'd Be Writing A Gratitude Post Now, But...

2006-11-22T19:15:00.000-06:00

I think I've got the flu. I can't stop sleeping and everything hurts.

But still I crawl to the computer to see if anyone's here.

Happy Thanksgiving you excellent people! Boy, am I glad to know you!

Cheese & Slackers

2006-11-17T11:06:00.000-06:00

She's got both...or has one and is the other.

Anyway, do I understand that we want to use "Cheese & Slackers" as the name for our recipe blog?

What about our "user name"...you know, for our profile?

And password ideas?

And slogans?

Here's A Fair Question:

2006-11-12T14:59:00.000-06:00

Name three (3) of the best movies you've seen in the past thirty (30) years.

I'll go first. These are not in order, just three (3) of the best I can think of at the moment:

1. Tender Mercies
2. Fight Club
3. A Room With A View

And no fair thinking too hard!

Okay, whattaya got?

Joan Is Gonna Kill Me But....

2006-11-10T19:01:00.000-06:00

You can see her on PBS's NOW program, tonight, Friday November 10, at 8 pm. There are usually reruns of NOW, too, over the weekend. Check local listings.

Here's one of our teachers:

2006-11-10T11:45:00.000-06:00

This is Sally Kneser and her husband, Jim. She taught French, English, Drama Club and Volleyball. They are now in Colorado and both helped organize an institute in Denver called the Academy for Lifelong Learning (www.Academyll.com) and are teaching there.

at SHS last weekend

2006-11-07T20:58:00.000-06:00

Time Difference

2006-11-06T05:50:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

Everytime I try to post it's a different story and the time difference isn't helping. I only have access at an internet cafe. So to quickly respond to the many things I've read . I've been in Bordeaux since June and will be back on the eastside of Milwaukee, where I live, in December. Dave Phinney is alive, but I am not sure how well and I see him walking near north and prospect but we've never spoken. Joan, I have the pictures of people in the cheerleading uniform, so watch the "short" comments. Perry, by far, has the best legs! Andy, I am trying to remember you working in the kitchen at Primas. Laurels house sounds great. I love all the chatter and wish I could jump in because my head is spinning with curiousity. It has been a great source of entertainment and freaks me out a little.....I'm dreaming about highschool. I look forward to next July.

a bientôt,
Jodie

Wanna Play Tag?

2006-11-05T13:50:00.000-06:00

I got "tagged" yesterday by one of my writer-blogging pals who had been "tagged" before me. What she was tagged to do was to name 5 things about herself that were interesting or unique.

Then I had to post 5 things about MYself that were interesting or unique. I did it fast, without thinking, and here's what I posted on her blog:

1. I lived in Chatham, England for one year, in 1968. I went to a real, old-fashioned public school there with a headmaster who wore a black robe and we had church every morning. It was fantastic.

2. I worked for Larry’s Flying Service in Galena, AK for almost a year. The town was so small that people passengers would call me at work at ask me what time their plane was leaving without telling me their name or where they were going. I was expected to answer. It was the greatest job I’ve ever had.

3. I was a panhandler in San Francisco for about a month when I was 28 years old. I was working for Charles Schwab and hadn’t had a drink in about 4 years, I guess, when one day I decided to have a beer after work with friends. Unfortunatley, alcoholism does not just go away with time, and I was on the street within about a month. That was an interesting job too (panhandling, I mean — one time I got a 20 dollar bill, it’s amazing what people will give you! It makes me sad to remember it, though. I was pretty sick.)

4. I think I’ve probaby read Salem’s Lot over 200 times. And I think that’s a conservative estimate.

5. I love toast with peanut butter and a fried egg on top. I cannot understand why everyone else in the world does not love this, too.

Okay, so that's how it works. You guys want to play?

Only time will tell, but I think I'm going to make one change to the game: I TAG EVERYONE WHO WANTS TO PLAY!! Post your responses here!

Thanks!
Claudia

Copperdome pages

2006-11-04T13:43:00.000-06:00

Is John Larroquette related to our principal?

What next?

2006-11-01T21:09:00.000-06:00

Now I've heard it all!
I didn't think anythting could top a Claudia Nowicki with class spirit,
but then Matt Rossi showed up on a dogsled, and with grandchildren yet,
and now I have a mental picture of Dan Edelstein DRESSED LIKE A PIMP, sliding his wife though his legs, tossing her over his head, and twirling her in mid air, all to the sounds of The Gene Krupa Orchestra.
I mean, what next?!!!!!!!!
Not that all this isn't great, cause it is. But I really feel like I have stepped into an alternate universe!
Luckily, this won't be one of my longer posts. All I have left to say Is rah, mush, and alreet!
I am now officially speechless.

dan b (no, not bennett, think harder)

David Haugh!!@#$&*!$#@%$

2006-11-01T14:06:00.000-06:00

Hi David Haugh!

have you washed any dashes lately?

and Danny Walters!! Last time I saw you we got stoned in the parking lot of Aliota's...

Jane

Remember when Dan and Holly brought Dean Martin's daughter for Show And Tell?

2006-10-31T21:43:00.000-06:00

Greta, Kate, Katie, and Holly. 1996

2006-10-31T21:39:00.000-06:00

Another One Succumbs

2006-10-31T13:05:00.000-06:00

Alright you have all sucked me in! I am here - I know where Ann is - the 21st is already on my calendar and probably 80% of my job and other board commitments involve event planning. So I am happy to help. Please would someone explain this blog thing never did it - don't know how, I suppose I could ask my 14 tear old who is having a much better experience at SIS also my oldest (a sophomore at UW) had great times at SHS. Can't believe I moved back after 23 years, I think it was the 20th!!! You current Shorewoodians will find me moving from 1905 E. Olive to 4145-47 N. Murray this weekend stop by and say hello, what a pathetic way to try and get help...there will be cold beer!! Just kidding - sort of.
Thalia

Minor Surgery

2006-10-31T12:26:00.000-06:00

This morning I was asked to include an email address on our address list, and I realized that I am far behind on updates like these.

If you would like to have your name or email address added to any of our lists and I've missed you, please email me: claud41c@yahoo.com .

Also: If anyone would like a new color background, different template, whatever -- either go in and change it or ask me to change it for your or bring it up on the comments -- this is a group creation!!

note: Whenever I change the greyhound picture I also change the audio clip. I have to figure out how to download entire songs, however. I only have clips so far...

AND if you want any changes in our profile, too -- just name them or put them in!

Okay. You get the idea.

Peace. And Happy Halloween!!

lc

Propinquity

2006-10-30T08:41:00.000-06:00

(pro ping'kwi te)

1. nearness in place; proximity. 2. nearness of relation; kinship. 3. affinity of nature; similarity. 4. nearness in time.

I was telling my friend Julie about this sense of...whatever it is that makes me feel so automatically comfortable with you guys. It seemed odd to me that after 30 years there should be such a strong and instant intimacy among us. And she gave me this word, suggesting that it could be explained, at least in part (perhaps) by the time we physically all spent together -- 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, and with some of you (Andy Nunnally!) going all the way back to first grade!!

That is quite a little bit of propinquity, I'd say.

Of Missing Persons

2006-10-29T00:12:00.000-05:00

The new list on the left has been provided by Deb R. If you know of anyone's whereabouts or would like other names posted, please either go in and post them yourself, or I'd be glad to do it for you, too.

Claudia

claud41c@yahoo.com

2006-10-28T19:56:00.000-05:00

What fun reading! You all have far better memories than I have - I've been reading things that I haven't thought about in so many years. I've enjoyed catching up with all of you this way.

I was sad we didn't have a 30th reunion - I've only been able to go to one and was looking forward to seeing everyone this year . . . but next year will be great! The middle of the summer makes sense, before we're in the midst of the "getting kids ready to head off to college" chaos (I'll have two going next year - hardly seems possible).

Looking forward to seeing all of you!

Lisa Nicholas

I'll Jump In

2006-10-28T11:09:00.000-05:00

Hi all,

It took me some time to get into this blog thing that Claudia created, but I was never much of a leader. It takes me a while to catch on. Most of what I remember from the end of high school was everyone talking about going to Madison to party on the weekends ... well I'm here now, but where did you all go? And, I still haven't found a party. I wasn't much of a partier either. I did finally pick a major at UW though and am just 18 credits shy of a degree.

But seriously, there is a big party tonight ... Halloween on State Street is a big deal and the last three years or so it's gotten out of hand with broken windows, overturned cars and pepper spray to clear the streets about 2:00 am. Any of your kids here? You can wire bail money to dma@itis.com If it goes badly again tonight, as always happens, they will report the hell out of it on cable TV unless there's just no time available because Joan Walsh is on every station.

I've run into just a few of you over the years and besides the handful of people I see regularly or e-mail, it is kind of cool to connect with others and see all these locations where everyone ended up. I think Irene Diamond is the only '76 person I know that was here, there must be more.

Lots of people I could comment on but I won't. However, Mitch and Jimmy are obviously still hmmmmmm ... clowns ... and is Laurel Blackmore in Beverly Hills? Why does that not surprise me. I did note that in the '96 picture she and I are about the only ones in light clothes and thus beautifully bookend the group photo ... when you think about the Class of '76, Laurel and I were certainly the classiest.

Back to the UW ... if any of you have kids in the college seeking age range ... please feel free to contact me if you come here for a college visit (or are just passing through on your way to a football game or to inspect your land holdings in Northern WI). I can even give you a tour or leave that up to the experts, your choice.

My wife Kristi and I have a daughter Amanda, who is a senior at Madison East and is doing the college search thing right now. Very, very bizarre to be at this stage.

Stay well everyone ... thanks Claudia!

David Meyer

Sal Buzzanca?!

2006-10-26T11:10:00.000-05:00

we were in that very new very modern middle school and we were in mrs. sears (i think that was her name, i can picture her exactly, flip frosted large hair, dark eyebrows, pink lipstick, perfect posture) home ec class (hey, to those who have children, they don't still teach that do they?) and the girls had to sew something with a sleeve and a zipper and the boys got to make a pillow, and suddenly, there was a mouse loose in the room! everyone was screaming and chasing it and then in a grisly moment, sal buzzanca stepped on it, hard! squash! it splurted it's guts everywhere and the girls screamed harder and the guys thought it was about the coolest thing ever. and suddenly i saw sal buzzanca in a whole new light.

see, these are the weirdass things i remember. claudia and i have been emailing (thanks to classmates) and she remembers things that i don't. but maybe i remember some things that she doesn't.

unlike jim neubauer, i don't remember any of my teachers fondly and can honestly say anything worth knowing in life, i surely did not learn at shs or shorewood middle school. all i learned there was how to make people think i was smart and working hard when i was basically, bonged out of my mind (at least in the classes after lunchtime) and daydreaming about something else.

jane levy, who strangely now lives in savannah georgia where the spanish moss drips and life is good.

Do we need another picture?

2006-10-24T20:22:00.000-05:00

You might recognize some of these kids if you were at Atwater School for 5th grade.

Reunion Ideas Here!

2006-10-22T14:05:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone:

Deb just made the incredibly reasonable suggestion that we limit our discussion of the reunion to one post so we can see what everyone's talking about.

If you have ideas or want to discuss our 31st reunion, please post them here!

Thanks!!

Claudia

Greyhounds Blog Bay Blue Dukes: 3 Eggs to 2 Eggs

2006-10-22T01:58:00.000-05:00

(Tongue-In-Cheek) Answer to Anita's question to Beth about a good place for the 31st Reunion:

The Youth Center (of course!).....and if we hold it at night, the only food will be elderly apples (like us!) from the Apple Machine near the Bowling Alley windows. Remember?! (Seriously, I have some suggestions, far below at the XX)

However, if we hold it from noon to 1 pm, then Double Cheeseburgers are on the menu.

*

And, by the way, this just in from the Sports Wire:

Greyhounds Blog Bay Blue Dukes: 3 Eggs to 2 Eggs.

The highlights included 3 AAA Organic Eggs (scrambled style) on the Bay statue in the front of the building. Direct hits. All of them. All Greyhounds skee-daddled quickly out of there back across Hampton south and into Home Territory again before the Coppers and Blue Dukes knew what happened.

Actually, I never was recruited for Overnight Duty During The Annual Bay Invasion during Football Week. I was either a Conscientious Objector or working as an usher at the Milwaukee Arena.

*

XX

Sign me up: I'll be a volunteer to help organize the 31st Reunion for the Summer of 2007. Hope that I can help from my N. CA (Novato) outpost. We've got plenty of organic eggs here in my locale within Marin Co. (25 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge)

Many folks would say there's plenty of granola here, too (You know, nothin' but fruits, nuts, and flakes in CA.......) (Bada bum......gong me.)

As for prospective venues for the 31st Reunion of the Blogger Slacker Class of '76, here's some ideas:

Hilton Hotel (same place as the 20th. That was the PB Era (Pre-Blog Era) )

Pfister Hotel

Shorewood Woman's Club (title is correct?; on River next to Morris St. near the Intermediate School) (That was where my sister Joy was married; it's a nice venue and gorgeous during the summer)

Lambeau Atrium (not!)

As for a date, the sooner the better for me to know, given my schedule.........

Anita and Beth, feel free to let me know how I might help:

edelstein@earthlink.net
www.warblerwatch.com

Best wishes! Your BlogHound Egg-Tossing Classmate of '76, Daniel Edelstein, whose '76 Yearbook is now pressing rare plants

1:41 AM

2006-10-21T21:55:00.000-05:00

Hey, this blog is a pretty hot commodity tonight – just about as hard as trying to access an Irish dance competition registration site (not a pretty scene)! Must be that pic of … who is that ..and that ..and that? So, I guess I’m not the only one “painting the town red” on a Saturday night .. yeah, I’m already in my jammies and ready for bed and it isn’t even 10 o’clock!
So, well, it finally occurred to me that my (parental) allegiance has gone north about a mile to Whitefish Bay (where my daughter is a sophomore) during a basketball game when I stood to comment on a ref on behalf of a Blue Duke player! However, I frequently refer to the Tower Times as the Ripples, the Tower as the Copperdome, etc., and so wish I could located that dink my older sister and brother and I shared that somehow got reshuffled during our folks (SHS Class of ’46) sale of the old homestead a couple years ago (that was a very strange, emotional day). My brain was flooded a couple weeks ago at the West Allis Farmers Market while browsing over some gorgeous mums. I went on to tell my daughter, much to her rolling eyes, all about Shorewood’s homecoming rituals and those white mum corsages with a red pipe cleaner “S” in the middle that was only reserved for the Seniors (Juniors were delegated to red carnations, I recall).
I have observed that some things are still the same and other things are different, for better or worse, in this world of high school. But, I can say the antics between these two North Shore villages have not waned as evidenced in the Crime Watch from this week’s North Shore Herald:
Two 16-year old Shorewood boys were cited for disorderly conduct after they toilet-papered Whitefish Bay High School, 1200 E. Fairmont Ave., spray-painted “SHS” on five sets of doors, egged the school and used chalk to write “SHS” on the Whitefish Bay community sign on East Sliver Spring Drive and North Lydell Avenue. Bushes in front of the sign also were toilet-papered. Several juveniles were involved in the incidents, which happened the night of Oct 12, during Whitefish Bay’s Homecoming week. (Thought you would enjoy this read and recall some of our own that got away!)
I was sitting at the stop sign on Bartlett and Capitol not too long ago and observed the change of morning classes across the street at SHS, thinking of how many feet had walked the same paths in all these years. The campus was alive and kicking, although I can say far less for the weary looking stadium, sans a football team, that still has that greyhound painted on the press box by Maurine Monroe and others from our class (?) I wonder what school, Bay or Shorewood, was left holding the Glory Cup.
Dan, Meg and I with our two kitties (Bob and Betty, aka Bob Wallace and Betty Haines from White Christmas – the best movie ever!) have been settled down here since Meg was a toddler and are in Bay for the long haul until she’s at least a couple years out of high school and retirement is somewhat in our picture. Someday we’ll get to that Idaho potato farm I dream of and Dan can ride me around on his motorcycle with a side car! Be well everyone.
P.S. Haven’t been too much into the high school reunion thing, attending only in ’86. Sounds like an off-year reunion is in order; as to borrow my brother Guy’s 31st reunion titled “Everyone’s Turning 50!” Beth Hoffman Delaney

2006-10-21T20:31:00.000-05:00

Who are these people??

See anybody you know?
This is who came to the 20th reunion July, 1996.

2006-10-21T19:33:00.000-05:00

You can tell what a wild woman I am, sitting here at the computer at 8:30 on a Saturday night. Well, at least it won't give me a hangover. ..

I'm one of those who never did the reunion thing, more out of living too far away than anything else. Maybe this summer I'll get the chance to head west. I live in southern Florida on the gulfcoast and love it. But in July---well, let's just say I could be tempted to head to Wisconsin.

Time is always an issue. I've been busy raising three sons who are now 16,18, and 20. I don't know when that happened! 18 and 20 are off at Florida State and 16 is a junior in high school. It has been a blast - and an occassional challenge- raising three boys. My husband is pretty immature as well, so it's kind of like living in the men's locker room. The testosterone sort of oozes down the walls! I'm always outnumbered, but I explained to them early on that it wasn't a democracy! :)

I worked in academia for many years in Virginia- doing academic advising, college teaching, ran a college counseling and support services center, and even served as an assistant dean at one point. When we moved to Florida, I decided to do something different and a friend talked me in to doing real estate sales for a new home builder. I'm now a sales manager for a different company but still having fun.

I love hearing what everyone is up to and what everyone is doing. I'll keep checking the blog but feel free to email me: cllukas@tampabay.rr.com.

High school seems so long ago but in some ways it feels like it just happened. When did we get to be our parents' age???? Of course I must say that high school parents nowadays are much more attractive than our parents were when we were in high school. Funny how that happens, isn't it? (Or maybe it's just Florida - a state that displays it's surgical enhancements proudly! )

My best to all and thanks to Claudia, Joan, Debbie, and Gary for putting me in touch with old friends.
Caryn

I finally made it to the main page...

2006-10-21T10:20:00.000-05:00

I am quite proud of myself - I cut and pasted this web address on the Classmates 76 reunion page for all to see. And now I am blogging with the big boys!
This is my question...I there a central place on here for us (meaning Claudia) to compile em addresses for all to see? I am trying to gather as many as I can but find myself looking in so many places.
Too much work - so little time...
Any extra moments I have are spent with my 2 little angels trying to keep them from killing each other. They are working hard at putting me on the 5th floor of St Mary's (where the walls are padded and everything is white). Ahhh. that what I get for starting a family at 38! But, did I mention they're cute? Have I thanked the Gods for Zanex?
Claudia - you rock for starting this. If I have any money left after buying Joan her drink, I will buy you one too!
Peggy Mortier
t.leppien@sbcglobal.net

Hi Laurel - send me an e-mail

A Nice James Thurber Cartoon

2006-10-20T23:52:00.000-05:00

2006-10-20T23:41:00.000-05:00

Thank you Joan
Claudia I'm slow.
The blonde from LA with 3 kids,one dog and way tooooooo many martinis. Laurel

Comments: The Marc's Big Boy of our slackers blog

2006-10-20T18:54:00.000-05:00

For new visitors: This blog is even more fun than it looks from the posts -- which are fun, they're very fun, but you need to know: Most people are skipping the main postings -- think of them as, like, our classes in high school -- and heading straight for the comments section (think of them as, like, skipping class to drink cherry cokes at Big Boy, or, well, I stuck to the cherry cokes at Big Boy, but I can't speak for Mike Szumski.

So I just wanted to run down what we've learned in comments:

Bill Pick keeps his mind clean to maintain our air travel safety. (Thank you, Bill!)

Despite what Jim Neubauer says, Mitch Bouchonville was the biggest influence in his life.

Jim Neubauer wore feety pajamas until 11th grade.

Claudia can get anything you need in Polson, Montana.

Anita Repins wants all of us to volunteer to help Peggy Mortier organize the reunion on July 21, 2007, and so do I.

Deb Roberts and the rest of us girls are still wondering why we couldn't take shop.

Mike Szumski still pretends to be shy.

Laurel Blackmore and I avoid chlorine for important health reasons.

We, collectively, sponsored Gary Morrison's online Guest Book, to show that the Class of '76 can get it done even if we missed our 30th. It takes a special group of nonconformists to throw a 31st.

And Scott Smith is going to write a screenplay about it. If he knows what's good for him.