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Daily Newspaper and Travel Guide
for Pecos Country of West Texas
Pecos Gab is designed to draw Pecos High School exes and other former residents together and keep them in touch with folks back home.
E-mail your comments to news@pecos.net.
West of the Pecos Rodeo
Click for More Information
Subject:
No Subject
Date:
Fri, 9 Jun 2000 17:26:59 EDT
From:
Ndegan@aol.com
For those of you who remember David Dean, Class of 1967 - this is the
obituary of his wife.
His email address is chappelldean@compuserve.com
Obituaries
Martha Ann Dean
Martha Ann Chappell Dean died at her home near Sydney, Australia, on Sunday,
June 4, 2000, after an 18-month battle with ovarian cancer.
She spent her childhood in Texarkana, Tx., and received her Bachelor's Degree
from Austin College in Texas. She received a Master's Degree from the
University of Georgia and her Ph.D. from Syracuse University in New York in
1980. Her research into the history of experimental psychology using computer
analysis of academic journals won high acclaim in her field, and is still
used to teach courses in the history of psychology today.
Dr. Dean joined the Institute for Scientific Information in Philadelphia as a
research analyst, and later worked in Princeton, New Jersey at PA Technology,
an international technology consulting firm, as an information analyst.
Her husband, David Dean, is a 1967 graduate of Pecos High School.
In 1989, she migrated with her husband and family to Sydney, Australia.
Survivors include her husband, Dr. David Dean of Sydney, Australia; one
daughter, Dorothy Dean of Sydney, Australia; one son, Daniel Dean of Sydney,
Australia; her parents, Bob and Billie Chappell of Tulsa, Okla.; two
brothers, David Chappell of Petaluma, Calif., Tom Chappell of Farmington
Hill, Michigan; one sister, Susan Matthews of Decatur, Ill.; her
mother-in-law, Nancy Dean of Pecos and numerous nephews and nieces.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations may be made to the
Royal Hospital for Women _ GO Fund, Barker Street, Randwick, NSW 2031,
Australia.
Subject:
GRADS OF 1979
Date:
Wed, 7 Jun 2000 22:41:45 EDT
From:
YaklinRudy@aol.com
DOES ANYONE HAVE THE E-MAIL ADDRESSES OF THE THE CLASSMATES OF 1979? I WOULD
APPRECIATE THEM IF ANYONE HAS ANY OF THEM.
THANKS,
RHONDA BRYANT YAKLIN
yaklinrudy@AOL..COM
Subject:
RV Park
Date:
Wed, 07 Jun 2000 10:37:06 -0500
From:
linda burns castle@netwest.com
This is just some information for anyone coming to the Pecos area for
their class reunions or for the "West of the Pecos Rodeo." Several have
phone me about the camping facilities, so I phoned and talked to Carl at
the camp grounds out by the city park and the country club. He said
there should not be any problems with space, but it would be best to
phone and get a reservation, since it is the busiest time of the year.
The full hook-up with sewer is $15.00 peer night. Space with just water
and electricity is $12.00 per night.
The phone number to call is (915) 447-2137 FAX: (915) 447-3287
www.escapees.com I look forward to seeing the class of 65' Linda Gann
Burns
Subject:
your wonderful web page and site
Date:
Wed, 07 Jun 2000 00:10:17 GMT
From:
"craig chappell" c_chappell@hotmail.com
my thanks go out to all who has made this site possible,A VERY BIG THANK'S
TO PEGGY FOR A GOOD JOB WELL DONE.my name is craig chappell and i now live
in san angelo. i moved here in july 1983.i try to get back and visit as
often as i can.can anybody tell me where richard dickson is now? he married
lisa bollinger and he became a state trooper.also if you are wondering jerr
byrne is a texas ranger now stationed here in san angelo as he has been
for a few years.well i guess i better go and i send my my greetings and best
wishes from san angelo and the concho valley.may each of you have a great
day CRAIG CHAPPELL
EMAIL ADDRESS C_CHAPPELL@HOTMAIL.COM
Subject: Frances Powell birthday
Date: Mon, 5 Jun 2000 10:23:07 -0500
From: "frances pohl" toots@techisp.com
Hi, I have enjoyed reading the Pecos Gab site since I first discovered it.
I know that some of you remember Frances Powell at the City Hall in the tax
department for many years. She also hauled me and my sisters to Rainbow
activities and school and church activities. She and daddy are living in
San Angelo now. They are neither one in very good health but still going.
Mother is having her 80th birthday on June 29th and I would like to ask her
many friends to help us make this a special day by sending her a card. They
both still miss Pecos and it would mean a lot to both of them to hear from
as many of their friends as possible. Her address is Frances Powell, 4910
Greenbrier Apt #113, San Angelo, Texas 76904. Thank you all for helping
make this a special day. Gad Bless each of you. Frances Powell Pohl,
Glenda Kunath and Cornelia Hensley.
Subject: Class of 75
Date: Tue, 6 Jun 2000 09:51:28 EDT
From: Cccmdavis@aol.com
Hello class of 75.Debbie said it all.EXCEPT--Please send me or Debbie your
e-mail address,mailing address,phone #,and any other information you think is
important.It would make our job a lot easier for the 2005 reunion.I know some
of you have gotten really old(Debbie)so try not to die between now and
then.Have a great summer and stay healthy. Cliff
Subject:
Reunion Time
Date:
Sat, 03 Jun 2000 11:21:35 -0700
From:
saul flores kelsey@pecos.net
Hey there class of '75 so sorry we will not be having a reunion this
summer 2000. Eve Wilson decided she wanted to have this one, but she
has moved to South America for at least 3 years. Allan Clayton has also
left the country, he has moved to Paris, France. So don't worry we will
have our 30 year reunion on time. Clifford and I will be contacting
some of you. Can you believe that we will be planning this wow...Next
year my daughter Sarah will be graduating and Kelsey will be in the 8th
grade.Where does the time go? Hope to hear from you guys--I hope you
all are doing fine. Have a great summer!!!!!
Debbie Herrera Flores
Greatest Class PHS ever had THE CLASS OF 1975.....
Subject:
Hello to all!
Date:
Fri, 2 Jun 2000 22:58:54 EDT
From:
GROOMERETC@aol.com
Wadonna Williams Groomer here! I was hoping to find anyone who graduated in
the class of '60. Also, Darlene Wilkins has e-mailed me concerning an
upcoming 1960 reunion. If anyone has any information on this please e-mail.
Thanks
Subject:
Class of 1960
Date:
Fri, 2 Jun 2000 16:11:38 -0500
From:
"Darlene Wilkins" oldmaid@ev1.net
Love the Gab. It's great to see others remembering the things that I thought made growing up in Pecos special.
Mary Barfield is trying to locate members of the Class of 1960 for our 40th reunion. Known missing are:
Jan Crow Lisenbee, Jimmy Gardner, Sharon Gustafson, Robert Hawkins, Judy Johnson, Frankie Laney, Don Lloyd, Judy Mahaffey,
Monty Mayhall, Kenny Medlin, Jimmy Murphy, Frankie Poteet, Kay Ransome, Alexa Jo Riley, Freddie Teague, Danny Ticer, and
Dennis Townsend.
If you know the whereabouts of any of these or anyone who might have gone to school with this class but did not graduate with us,
please let us know. Thanks
Darlene Wilkins
Houston, Texas
Subject:
NONE
Date:
Fri, 02 Jun 2000 08:19:42 -0500
From:
Lindley Workman lindley_workman@mccom.com
I just wanted to let you know that it's nice to take a quick scan of
what is happening at home. I'm living in Denton, a senior at the
University of North Texas, and I'm currently interning for an
advertising agency in Dallas. It's nice to be able to look over the
familiar names and, in some cases, faces.
Lindley Workman
Subject:
new email address
Date:
Tue, 30 May 2000 20:13:10 -0600
From:
"Johnny Davis" scooter.57@gateway.net
I Would Just Like To Let Everyone Know My New Email Address scooter.57@gateway.net I Would Love To Hear From Anyone
From The Class Of 75
Johnny Davis
Class Of 75
Subject:
great site
Date:
Tue, 30 May 2000 21:44:31 -0400 (EDT)
From:
SALLY BRADLEY sallyb@mail.com
Hello to all, I just discovered this site and thought it was a lot of fun to
hear about all. Some of you will remember me, Sally Horton '58', but, more
of you may remember my mother, Mrs. Horton. She taught math at PHS from
60-75 and was also sponsor of the Student Counsel. Many of you are familiar
as I heard her talk about you. Mom died last month and I returned to Pecos
to bury her. Didn't get to see much of the town, but a few of the teachers
from PHS came out. Mother, loved her students and enjoyed reflecting on the
great years. She spent the last four years of her life in Lubbock, Texas
with Pat and I. She was in a 'foster care' home much of this time as she
became demented and needed someone to watch her closely. She looked great
and was dress and up every day up until she died. She knew me, but seldom
knew others. Even though she was 88 years old, she would grin when you
mentioned teaching and her students. She loved that.
I have lived in the Lubbock area for most of the years since I graduated
from Tech. Pat Bradley '58 and I have been married 40 years this July.
Where has our life gone. I have spent the last 20 years in a retail
store--Tis Christmas with two locations in the Lubbock area. I am presently
closing those stores and am going to rock my grandbabies.
Would love to hear from some of you. The class of '58 does not have
reunions anymore--too bad. So long, Sally
Subject:
Celina pay?!?
Date:
Tue, 30 May 2000 14:33:06 -0500
From:
Curtis DeHaan saintcurtis@topher.net
I don't remember Celina ever paying, I remember being envious of all the
dates they had with all the cutest guys, but as far as either Celia or
Celina paying, no way! Love you eena and Celia!
Terrie
Subject:
Class of 1965
Date:
Tue, 30 May 2000 14:30:23 -0500
From:
linda burns castle@netwest.com
Peggy, thank you so much for this web-site. I hope this will help us
find some of our "lost classmates."This is a list of the classmates from
1965, which we have not been able to locate.
We need help from anyone. I have a (toll free) number anyone can phone
me. 1-877-532-3367
Lori Alvarado, Kent Kilgore,
Monte Barmore, Suzanne Barker Massey,
Roy Bechtel, Kenny McKeown,
Jean Williams Box, Gloria Montoya,
Steve Callaway, Manuela Orneles,
Calvin Caruthers, Manuela Ponce,
Patricia Shaw Davis , Margaret Powers,
Jean Doutnitt, Sally Preston,
Sammy Dudley, Delores Esquivel
Rispone,
Erminia Franco, Dorothy Gilcrest
Sadgur,
Lupe Garcia , Carolyn Bell,
Doug Gassett, Yvonne Snow,
Teresa Gonzales , Sally Tellez,
Robert Harmond, Verdell Tunson,
Buddy Harris, Lionel Valdez,
Rose Hartford , Cruz Varela,
James Henderson, Linda Wainwright,
Sue Knust, Dora Jean
Williams,
Ida Lyles, Sharon Downs
Woodcock,
Editor's Note:
Due to technical difficulties, one story was omitted from Friday's News page, and another was cut short. I have fixed them and you can read "the rest of the story" at
Archives
Subject:
Ear Bell Scholarship Fund Inc.
Date:
Sun, 28 May 2000 22:27:09 -0500
From:
"Raul Garcia"
unklrudy@netwest.com
REMINDER! To our membership; we are having our annual convention meeting 10:00 AM, Saturday morning, June 3, at the Pecos Community
Center.(Members only for meeting). To follow in the afternoon, at 2:00 PM, Luncheon and scholarship awards recognition, public welcome.
See you there.
Subject:
Re: Johnny Bjornson
Date:
Fri, 26 May 2000 22:12:17 -0800
From:
"Lynette Harple" msmusic@alaska.com
Hello present and former Pecosites:
Just wanted to let you know an update about my dad, Johnny Bjornson, who was in the plumbing contracting business for many years in
Pecos. He has recently been diagnosed with colon cancer and has spent 2 weeks in the hospital. Last week he had many tests in the public
hospital, and this week he was admitted to the VA hospital for surgery which was performed on Tuesday, May 23rd. The surgeon was able to
excise all of the cancer from the colon, but it looks as if the cancer has spread to his liver. We are awaiting the outcome of those tests.
Hopefully taking chemotherapy will help with the liver cancer.
Thanks to several of you who wrote notes to me about my last posting at this site. I enjoyed hearing from you. If you have a word for my
dad, please send it in care of my edress and I will see that it gets printed off for him. I have made a notebook for his hospital room of
letters/notes that have been written to him.
We would appreciate your good thoughts and prayers during this recovery time.
Thanks,
Lynette (Bjornson) Harple
Anchorage, Alaska
msmusic@alaska.com
Subject:
Looking for a long lost friend.
Date:
Thu, 25 May 2000 02:57:56 EDT
From:
Copenx@aol.com
Hi there. This is Tom Jernigan, and I am asking for some help in locating
David Elliot. The last time that I was in town, was in 96, I have lost
contact with David and would like to talk with him again.
Last I knew, David was working at Valley Motors, in the radiator shop. If
you would, just let me know that he and his family are all doing OK.
I am currently on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. My home phone is 808-689-7706.
If you can help me out, I would be greatful.
Mahalo
Subject:
David Gomez!!
Date:
Wed, 24 May 2000 18:09:18 -0500
From:
Jaroy Moore jbmoore@nts-online.net
The restaurant is called "Gil's" and it is on George Deiter Blvd. in EP.
It really is almost like walking into Las Palmas...the booths are the
same and the gun collection is hanging on the wall. After having lived
in Pecos for 26 years (teaching 21 of those years). Jaroy and I moved to
EP in 1996 as Jaroy was made Resident Director of the Texas A & M
Reasearch Center and I taught 7/8th graders at Slider Middle School.
Texas A& M had other plans for us and after not quite 3 years we moved
to Lubbock where Jaroy is the Director of the Research Center here.
While in EP we frequented Gil's and the food is really very good. Much
like what you would get at Las Palmas. David cooks and Gil manages and
they make a good team. If you are ever in El Paso go by(it's on the
East side). I enjoy reading all the letters to Pecos Gab and enjoy also
seeing messages from some of my former 5th, 6th, or 7th graders from
North Pecos, South Pecos, Austin Elementary, Lamar Middle School, and
Zavala middle school. Pecos is still our real home. Our children, Greg
and Meredith both graduated from PHS in 1983 and 1989. We try to get
back as often as possible. Thanks, Peggy.
Bennie Moore
Editor's Note: The Moores moved to El Paso about the same time the Enterprise went online. They were among our first online customers. Hello, Jaroy and Bennie. Peggy
Subject:
Pool Hall
Date:
Wed, 24 May 2000 11:07:32 EDT
From:
Cccmdavis@aol.com
The man who ran the pool hall above Lewis` Shoe store was Stud Carter.
Subject:
All this talk about food...
Date:
Tue, 23 May 2000 23:30:40 -0700
From:
w pingleton normanping@earthlink.net
Living in Oklahoma causes a real problem when a person wants some good
mexican food. I remember the chili rellanos made at Ben's Spanish Inn.
We used to go there a lot when I was a child. My first memory of Cy's
was when my family went to eat there and we got to go in because my Dad
went to school with Cy. We got to sit in the storeroom on crates and
eat back there. It was sooo good. Mrs. Coleman was Marlene to me long
before I had her in Journalism class. She was (and still is) one of the
most caring individuals I know. Of all my teachers at PHS, she is the
one I quote most often.
I should not be thinking about Cy's, Ben's, or Las Palmas .... I'm
hungry!!!!
By the way, I remember the glowing grave. My church youth group (of all
things) used to go out there and scare each other. It always did the
trick and scared the crap out of me!
One more thing I cannot get over - Jimmy Galindo is the county judge!
Good for you Jimmy. I remember when ......
Chow, Wendy (Sullivan) Pingleton
Subject:
Name
Date:
Wed, 24 May 2000 00:07:56 -0500
From:
Barbara & James Smith barjam@swbell.net
To Mike, "Stud" Carter had the pool hall. His wife,Mrs. Carter was my
4th grade teacher. Their daughter Mary Ann, and several more wonderful
kids, and I went through '44 to '56 together.
Subject:
Class of 1965 Reunion
Date:
Tue, 23 May 2000 18:54:32 -0500
From:
linda burns castle@netwest.com
Yes, this is our 35th class reunion!! It doesn't seem possible that time has gone by sooo fast! Does it seem that way to
everyone or just me? I hope everyone that made it to our last reunion will come again.. Let's try and make this our biggest
turn out ever. Let everyone get in touch with and encourage those that have not been to a reunion. The schedule is as follows.
Friday, June 30 is hospitality at the Bickley's (1906 Adams) from 4:00 to 7:00
Saturday, July 1 is the famous "Dust Bowl Golf Scramble" 8:30 to 12:30
Saturday,Evening at the Country Club 7:00 to 12:00 for Hors D'oeuvres, etc. and lots of great fun!!
If you would like to play in the "Dust Bowl" send a check of $18.00 per player made out to Reeves County Municipal Golf
Course and mail to Golf Tournament; 2315 Twin Grove; Kingwood, TX. 77339 To participate in the fun at the Country
Club send a check for $25.00 per person made out to Reunion Committee. Then mail it to Martee Bickley Stuart at 2501
Bedford; Midland,TX. 79701
I hope this information is useful to someone. I look forward to seeing everyone here. If you haven't been home in awhile you
will be surprised as Eddy street is getting all spruced up!
See ya at the reunion, Linda Gann Burns class of 65" yeah!!
Subject:
Food
Date:
Tue, 23 May 2000 18:35:57 EDT
From:
CTaylo2050@aol.com
You guys are FUNNY! I don't remember paying for a lot of things when I lived
in Pecos. A date picked you up at the door, opened his car door for you and
then you would slide into the middle seat. Of course, if you happend to be
dating someone your parents didn't approve of - you met him or her on the
drag.
As for David Gomez, he and his brother had a place in El Paso. One of the
times we were in El Paso, my sister and I went into his place...it reminded
me a lot of Las Palmas in Pecos. I don't remember the name of their place
but the food was delicious!
From Southern Indiana - Celina Acosta-Taylor
Subject:
1962 Tornado
Date:
Tue, 23 May 2000 00:10:42 -0700
From:
"Bill Cook" billc@conceptsnet.com
To All:
I had the pleasure of sleeping through the f4 tornado that ripped through Jonesboro in May of 1973. I was not so fortunate
when Pecos was hit in 1962.
I remember the dust storm.....so what else was new in Pecos?
I remember it beginning to rain mud....'thought that was an interesting twist.
The hail was exciting...until it started breaking the glass out of my South Pecos Elementary Classroom. Then things got 'kinda
rough for a while.
I have been able to use the internet to see that it was on May 17, 1962 and to see that it was an f2. I would like to get any
information I can on that twister, a map of its path, and some scanned images as well for my family history. Any info would be
appreciated.
Kindest Regards,
William J. Cook
Seattle
Subject:
'79 graduates
Date:
Mon, 22 May 2000 20:26:16 EDT
From:
MS61061@aol.com
Hello Pecos! and all graduates of '79. I really enjoy reading this site and
remembering what it was like to live in Pecos. I now live in New Mexico and
work with the Municipal Schools. Somehow I find the time to read through this
site even though this time of the year is so hectic. Especially when I read
about all the food that Pecos is "famous" for.
Talking about food, I remember the best-tasting chili at Bozeman Drug. It was
the best!! I was in second grade at West Pecos Elem. and always counted the
minutes to lunch. We had open campus at that time and me and my friends would
gather up our money and walk to Bozeman's and sit on the little bar stools
and enjoyed an hour of lunch. Back then, we would always return to school on
time, but I can't say that for my senior year. Nancy and I would tell Mrs.
Coleman we were going out to look for sponsors for the "Eagle Echo" and would
always go somewhere else, for a drive along the drag or to Sonic. We somehow
managed to get away with it. Those were the good old Days!
I really would like to hear from some of my fellow classmates that I have
lost touch with: Diamantina Villalobos, Lorena Lara, Sylvia Ayala, Faustina &
Petra Chacon, Connie (Levario), Mike Goode, Nancy Lujan, and so many more!!
If you're out there, please write.
Subject:
Food
Date:
Mon, 22 May 2000 20:21:03 EDT
From:
YaklinRudy@aol.com
Hello everyone!
It seems to me that either the good looking twin is losing his eyesight or
his memory. I read his letter about the wonderful places that some of ate
during high school. I remember the great mexican food at Las Palmas. Mitch
check Pecos Gab May the 11th and look at my letter. Celina and I both
remember that we were excellent eaters and the food at Las Palmas was great.
We were wondering though why did we always have to pay? Well there are many
great memorie of Pecos and this is a wonderful site to discuss them in.
Thanks for all the effort to keep this thing going. By the way does anyone
know where David Gomez is? How I wished we had a decent Mexican food
resturant in South Texas.
Always,
Rhonda
Subject:
pictures.
Date:
Mon, 22 May 2000 18:35:04 EDT
From:
JamesRichard1128@aol.com
I am the son of Carmen Galindo(Machuca now), and am looking for pictures of
my mother that anyone might have to share with me. I have not told her what
I am doing, but I would like to get any photos that anyone may have so I can
make a collage for her. I know the High School has a picture of her that
adorns the hall way. If anyone can get me a copy of it, I would truely
appreciate it!
If anyone knows my mother, she is doing WELL, thanks. i will forward any
messages anyone may have for her. She doesn't have a computer because she
still in the old school mentallity......"YOU can't teach me about computers!"
Thank you all for your time and word you may have
Thank you
James Richard Machuca
Subject:
Pool Hall `
Date:
Mon, 22 May 2000 13:49:43 -0500
From:
"Michael Beckham" mcsbpb@home.com
What was the person's name who ran the pool hall downtown?
Mike Beckham
Subject:
MISSING MY HOMETOWN AND FRIEND'S
Date:
Fri, 19 May 2000 20:25:22 -0700
From:
"craig chappell" res02uhc@gte.net
I HOPE ALL OF YOU PEOPLE IN PECOS ARE DOING FINE. MY NAME IS CRAIG CHAPPELL AND I NOW LIVE IN SAN
ANGELO. IHAVE LIVED HERE SINCE JULY OF 1983. I AM TRYING TO LOCATE A SPECIAL FRIEND I WENT TO SCHOOL
WITH. HER NAME IS SHERRY WEATHERLY AND HER AND HER FAMILY MOVED FROM PECOS IN 1976,I BELEIVE HER
FATHER WAS AN AIRLINE PILOT . DOE,S ANYBODY REMEMBER THE GLOWING GRAVE OUT AT EVERGREEN
CEMETERY? I AM DOING WELL HERE AS I OWN MY HOUSE AND PROPERTY. THE ONLY THING THAT I DONOT LIKE IS
THE BOARDED UP BUSINESS,S . IT HURT'S ME TO LOOK AT SOMETHING THAT REMIND'S OF MANY GOOD TIMES AS
GROWING UP AND LIVING THERE.
anyone wishing to respond to me can contact me at e-mail address
craigchappell@gte.net
Subject:
Food in Pecos
Date:
Sun, 21 May 2000 21:54:00 -0500
From:
msmclain@web-runner.com (Mitchell McLain)
Ok, I've been quiet long enough. I guess my classmates don't have as good a memory as I do but after
all I probably ate more than Rhonda or Celina (twin). Come on girls your making us look bad. First of all
Ben's Spanish Inn always did and always will be the home of the worlds best chili rellanos. Cy's Big
Burger was started by Cy Coleman way before we can remember and last time I knew a very sweet lady
named Belle still worked there. Dad had his gas station just across from Cy's and right next door to
Las Palmas. If my memory serves me correctly, Las Palmas was Originally owned by Ben Matta and later
by Gilbert Gomez, by the way, Gilbert had probably the best looking waitresses in Pecos, his daughters. If Louis Matta now owns
Cy's, I stand corrected.
Enough of my erogance. I really just wanted to say hi and that I sure do miss all the old gang from the Class of 79.
A quick update on at least two of the many twins of our class. As I said before, I am a Sergeant with the Taylor County Sheriff's
Department and Michael is now a Sergeant with the Midland Police Department. I guess we are stuck being the same even after
so many years
God Bless You All
Mitchell (the good looking twin) McLain
Subject:
tickets at Al's
Date:
Sun, 21 May 2000 14:43:11 EDT
From:
JPayne6792@aol.com
In answer to David Andrews' question,,,,,,I never got a ticket at Al's,,,,,in
fact,,,I never got a ticket anywhere,,,except for a car wreck one time,,,and
we won't go into that. I had a guardian angel watching out for me, and his
name was "Pops",,aka Jim Wilson,,,remember him? My years in Pecos and the
Pecos school system are full of fun memories, wonderful teachers, some not so
great teachers and a lot of good kids. I was proud for my kids to go to the
same schools that I went to, and believe it or not,,they even had some of the
same teachers. Now ,,our oldest daughter and her family live in Virginia and
her hubby is a Major in the Army,,they have three kids,,,Paul and Melinda
live here in San Antonio, and they have 4 and 2 kids,,respectively. Our lives
are rich and full and filled with love. Enough jammering from me for this
time.
Judy and Johnny Payne
Subject:
Tickets At Al's
Date:
Sat, 20 May 2000 17:02:03 -0500
From:
"Joy Ray" joyray2@earthlink.net
Hey, not me!! Of course, my first car was a 1928 Model A Ford so it was impossible to speed. We did get stopped on Main Street because I
had several guys riding on the running boards outside the car. Guess that wasn't very safe!! I circled the block and picked them back up
again though.
I am sure David got his share of tickets though!
Joy Ray
Subject:
Parking Tickets @ Al's
Date:
Fri, 19 May 2000 21:32:41 -0500
From:
"Michael Beckham"
mcsbpb@home.com
OK! David Andrews posed the question.
"How many people did not get a ticket around Al's?"
Subject:
Class of 1975
Date:
Fri, 19 May 2000 17:26:38 -0500
From:
"David Palomino" ra6140@email.sps.mot.com
Well I guess the class of 75 is not up to celebrating its 25th High
School Reunion. Then maybe they are and I just didn't get invited. I
thought that with the year 2000 that we would have had a hell of a 25th
reunion. I guess I am as guilty as the next guy, waiting for someone
else to step forward and do all that it takes to put one of this things
together. I guess not a one of us stepped up.
To all my classmates that have since gone their separate ways, Happy
25th High School Reunion. Just about all of us are 40 plus years young
today. And quite a few of us I bet are attending our own sons and
daughters graduations this year. To those that are, congratulations and
I hope it brings back many happy memories.
I was born in Pecos, but was raised down the road in Barstow. So I don't
have many childhood memories about the town of Pecos, but I have many
wonderful memories about my school years in Pecos, starting from the 7th
grade at West Pecos all the way through my High School years in Pecos
High. I wish we could have gotten together this year and shared those
memories. Well there's always next year.
Someone mentioned that our football teams where always exciting to
watch. That they where, and I like to thank Coach Millsapps for all
those tough but wonderful years and I feel fortunate to have had him as
my football coach.
I also don't see hardly any '75 grads writing to Pecos Gab - and I know
they are out there. Happy 25th Reunion!!!!!
Class of '75
David Palomino Jr.
Austin, Texas
Subject:
Classes of 1978 and 1979
Date:
Fri, 19 May 2000 13:31:35 -0500
From:
Evelyn McAnelly emcanelly@hondo.k12.tx.us
If any of you were in Miss Meadows' second grade class at Pecos Elementary
in 1967-1969, I (Miss Meadows) would love to hear from you . I found this
site last year after Debra (Cauble) told me about it, but was unable to
locate it again after the computers in the library at school were down for
the summer. Today I heard from Kay (Painter) and was able to find it. Even
thought I was in Pecos for only two years (1967-1969), I saw a few familiar
names as I read over the emails.
This is my 33rd year to teach school. After my two years in Pecos, I spent
22 years in Hurst-Euless-Bedford, then married and moved to Hondo, where I
have taught for the past 9 years. Pecos was the perfect place for me to
start my teaching career, and I treasure the two years I spent there. I
remember looking around the classroom now and then as the children worked on
their lessons and thinking to myself, "Poor little things, they didn't ask
to be guinea pigs in a first-year teacher's class....." Sometimes I go
through my files and read the little stories they wrote, which always make
me chuckle and fill my heart with smiles.
Evelyn Meadows McAnelly
emcanelly@hondo.k12.tx.us
Subject:
for Bill Cook '70
Date:
Fri, 19 May 2000 00:00:28 EDT
From:
KaeTeeLynn@aol.com
The class of '70 will be having a 30 year class reunion June 2nd and 3rd and
is being organized by Susan Browder Driver - RDriver@aol.com. You can
contact her about details. She's contacted tons of people.
Maybe we'll see you there.
Sharon Kilcrease Hoover-Class of '70
Subject:
Re: Trying to locate Bob Crow and Cynthia Crow
Date:
Thu, 18 May 2000 13:23:10 -0500
From:
Patty Squyres psquyres@pcctr.com
Hi:
If anyone can help me locate Bob or Cynthia I
would really appreciate it. Reunion time and
small group gatherings are happening quite often
these days and would like to include them.
Thanks again,
Patty Glover Squyres
psquyres@pcctr.com
Subject:
Band
Date:
Wed, 17 May 2000 14:42:09 -0600
From:
Nancy Tyler nctyler1@excite.com
Hi, everybody! from Nancy Carpenter Tyler - PHS Class of '73.
This is a great site - thanks.
Since we are going down memory lane, how about those wonderful times we
had at band camp in the Davis Mountains, freshmen air raids in
Balmorhea, trips to Corpus, and being the only band that could sing,
too.Thanks, Mr. Carrico!
Our football teams were always exciting to watch. Speaking of that some
of you may be interested in knowing that Coach Millsapps is retiring
this year. He has been Athletic Director for El Paso ISD.
I don't see many '73 grads writing to Pecos Gab - are you out there?
Subject:
Cy's Big Burger & Dairy Maid
Date:
Wed, 17 May 2000 17:53:56 -0700
From:
"John & Sally Mincks" jwm56@psnw.com
I read about the great burgers in Pecos, but no one had better frito burgers than Cy's Big Burger. Hmmmm they were good!!! Does
anyone remember theDiary Maid? I loved their cheeseburgers, fries and strawberry shakes!! Does anyone remember THE
CIRCLE in Pecos? Reading through everyone's memories brings back more memories for me as well. One of my fondest
memories is the Football Coronation in school every year and the football games!! When I visit Pecos in the summer time, the
first thing I want is a cantaloupe or a yellow watermelon - best in the world!!!
Ysela Garcia Mincks - class of 6l
Subject:
Class of 90--Still Looking
Date:
Wed, 16 May 2001 18:20:03 -0500
From:
"Nikki Fowlkes" fowlkes@dellcity.com
Peggy-Thanks, I enjoy reading all the stories about years past and those who came before me....
My real purpose is to find those missing grads for our upcoming renunion. We are planning a little gathering duing the July festivities and to
let everyone know about it!
In addition, I would like to invite any grads of PHS to come out to the Bar-B-Que on July 8 at the Maxi Park from 3 to 6 p.m. We would love
this to be a great big gathering of grads and their families. Anyone interested---only one requirement--BYOB! (beef and beverage!!)
We are looking for the following people from the Class of 1990! I have enjoyed finding those that I lost touch with and have enjoyed the
process of planning this get together. Hope to see a great crowd!
Leonardo Venzor, Nolberto Zubia,David Montgomery,Mathew Martinez,Gina Garcia,Jonny Bishop,Anna Ortiz,Autro Quintana,Luis
Juarez,Lourdez Montoya,Dani Talamentez,Felix Machuca, Rodney Abila,Marcos Almunia,Ivonne Anchondo,Joseph Barrera,Marisol
Bustillos,Florentino Cardenas,Joe Carrasco,Sam Carrasco,Adrian Chabarria,David Colmery,Roger Cortez,Jeff Cranfill, Edmundo
Dominguez,Lemonth Ephriam,Luzema Estrello,Sulema Estrello,Israel Franco,Mike Franco,Angelita Garcia,Yoki Gardner,Cruz Gomez,Salome
Gomez,Orlando Gonzales,Yvette Gonzales,Lupe Guzman,Blain Hannah,D Andra Hendricks,Cindy Hernandez,Garry Hill,Mike Horton,Gary
Jackson,Tonya Jenkins,Becky Juardo,Jimmie Krunmow,Angela Lara,,Selena Lara,Chris Lerma,Jose Lerma,Edward Licon, Bonnie
Lindsey,Melissa Lopez,Robert Lopez,Daniel Machuca,Salvador machucha,Susie Maldanado,Mando Martinez,Rene Martinez,Maria
Mata,John Mauldin,Jesus Mendoza,Landra Menix,Marsha Meraz,Tony Montenez,Gary Moore,Myra Muela,Pilar Nativitad,Michelle
Nunez,Genice Ornelas,Irma Ortega,Raymond Ortiz,Teresa Ortiz,Saul Pacheco,Hector Pando,Lionel Pando,Gloria Parras,Kelcey Pattillo,Angel
Pena,Carlos Perez,Gabriel Ramirez,Ivonne ramirez,Jesus ramirez,Frankie Ramos,Marshella Rayos,Martina Rico, Cornelia Rodriguez,Manuel
Rodriguez,Ruben Romero,Michele Rubio,Elizar Salazar,Delinda Salgado,Lupe Salgado,Roger Salinas,Sonia Sanchez,Elizabeth Sarabia,Kent
Smith,Ray Soto,Angel Tarin,Troy Tarin,Jessica Torrez,Arturo Villalobos,George Villanueva,Rita White,Lavera Williams,Chris Willis,Susan
Wilson,Mark Wright,Hector Zuniga
Hope to see some of you there!
Nikki Adams-Fowlkes
Subject:
Class of '70
Date:
Tue, 16 May 2000 00:28:39 -0700
From:
"Bill Cook" atmj1@conceptsnet.com
Hello Pecos:
Just found the website. Wow, thoughts of Pecos: Mrs. Wheat’s 4th grade class (1960), Mrs. Reader’s 5th grade class (1961), Billie
Sol, Jr. accidentally stepping on a lizard and getting blamed (by his more superstitious friends), for the May 17, (1962) tornado, the
State Theater, where I was dropped off to see Hercules Unchained and got stuck with FUN IN ACAPULCO (1963), Kathy Lukins
breaking her #4 pencil point off in the back of my leg, (1963), "Combat Carly’s" 7th grade reading class and WWII symposium
(1965), and Mr. Moss’ SMELLY Biology classroom (1968)…and those neat steak sandwiches that were always waiting for me (I’m
boring and ate the same thing every day), at the little burger joint a block in front of PHS. [In that one little dining room, the 9th and
10th grade girls – each in desperate rush to get lung cancer – could subject one to more tar and nicotine in 30 minutes than they
would ever be exposed to anywhere else, unless perhaps they found themselves in a tobacco warehouse fire. And, as I complete
each issue of my magazine, Amateur Telescope Making Journal, I remember that part of my drive to create the publication was the
fact that when I wanted to learn more about making my own telescope, there wasn’t a single telescope making book in the whole
town.]
But, that is not why I’m chiming in. I am trying to put together my family history and would like to make contact with some of my
classmates.
I am from the Class of 1970 but did not graduate from PHS, having moved away in my sophomore year. However, I would like to
know the whereabouts of some friends and classmates that I had many years earlier at South Pecos Elementary: Randy Bell,
Dana Wilson, Jesse Smith, Mike Call (his father was a postal worker), Jim Gunn, Kathy Lukins, Edwin Epenhauer (heck, I couldn’t
spell that even then), Joe Salas, Charles Tally, Donald Woods, Donna Blackstock, Jimmy Fonville, or Nell ? (pronounced k’nuust)
If you know the whereabouts of any of these individuals, please let me know at your earliest convenience.
I would especially like to know how to find Billie Sol, jr. and Dawn Estes. I lived in a mobile home at the corner of their swimming
pool until they moved away – circa 1962. I learned to skate at Billie’s instruction and to play tennis at Dawn’s. I contacted Billie,
Sr. last year but he was more than a little evasive. I don’t think he ever really understood why I wanted to contact the kids. When I
was growing up, we were so poor we thought poverty was for rich folks. Consequently, I have NO photos of myself from that
timeframe and know that Billie and Dawn took several. It is my hope that by finding them I might be able to locate some of those
photos to have scanned for my family history.
I would love to hear from any classmates who might come across this memo. I know there were many great friends whose names
elude me for the moment.
Kindest Regards,
William J. Cook
Seattle, Washington
Subject:
EARL BELL SCHOLARSHIP FUND INC.
Date:
Mon, 15 May 2000 16:04:46 -0500
From:
"Raul Garcia" unklrudy@netwest.com
To our Alumni from out of town: the recipients of our three yearly scholarships were, Tony Casillas, Ian Dominguez and
Lindsay Olibas all proud graduates of Pecos High School.
Subject:
Parking Tickets
Date:
Mon, 15 May 2000 11:15:46 -0500
From:
"David W Andrews" dwbgandrews@compuserve.com
Mike Beckham:
Who didn't get a ticket at Al's? That would be an easier question to answer.
Later.
David W. Andrews
dwbgandrews@compuserve.com
Subject:
HOT TAMALE HARRY!
Date:
Sun, 14 May 2000 22:28:15 -0500
From:
"Raul Garcia" unklrudy@netwest.com
I'm pretty sure the hot tamale man with the cart was Mr. " Mariscal" and I bet you hope the meat was
jack rabbit.
Subject:
June 2nd WAR concert
Date:
Fri, 12 May 2000 16:23:34 -0500
From:
"Aguero, Michael (SWBYP)" ma1581@ypsmail.swbyps.com
Hello Pecosites!
My name is Michael Aguero. I was born in Pecos in 1964 and now
reside in Midland, Tx. I just wanted to invite everyone to check out the
upcoming WAR concert in downtown Midland on June 2nd. I am a singer/bass
player for the RHYTHM ACES. We are a variety showband and play the venues
in the area. We were invited to open for the big concert on Friday night.
It is a great pleasure to be a guest artist for the great L.A. group which
made great hits like, "WHY CAN'T WE BE FRIENDS?", "CISCO KID", "LOW RIDER"
and many others. So come out on Friday night and hang out with the RHYTHM
ACES & WAR for a time to remember. For more details about this event, tune
in to 106.7 FM. (for bookings on the Rhythm Aces, call 915-570-8716 or
915-337-8578) Lot's of love and I sure miss those frito burgers!
See you all soon!
Michael Richard Aguero
915-620-6325
Subject:
F.W. Woolworth's
Date:
Fri, 12 May 2000 02:38:17 EDT
From: WGP8401@aol.com
I love reading and reminiscing whenever I go to this site. Thanks to
everyone who takes the time to contribute!
The Woolworth's store holds so many memories for me. My family and I lived
on Cowan Street and just two houses from us was where the Dierdorff's lived.
Beth was my age - and I think she had a couple of younger brothers. The
important thing about the Dierdorffs was that Mr. Dierdorff was THE manager
of Woolworth's! I thought that was sooo cool!
When Woolworth's first opened, though, we still lived on Plum Street next
door to Archie & Mary Scott (Danny, Robin - oops, Robert, Kate, and Doris).
One day my mom bought me a parakeet at Woolworth's. I thought it was about
the most exciting day of my life. That very afternoon, Kate and Doris Scott
came over and I took the birdcage & Tweetie out on the back porch. Then I
opened the cage door - and guess what Tweetie did!?! Yep, he recognized
FREEDOM and was gone before we knew what happened. It was pretty traumatic
to me; and as I remember, I had to wash lots of dishes and do lots of extra
chores around the house to earn money to get another "Tweetie."
Does anyone remember having a Cherry Coke at the fountain in Woolworth's? It
had Marachino Cherries chopped up finely in it. What a treat! Sometimes I'd
suck one up the straw - making that straw useless - 'cause I could never seem
to get it all the way up to my mouth!
Think I got my first bra at Woolworth's (a "trainer" with dancing ballerinas
embroidered across the front in multi-colored thread!) I KNOW I bought my
first nylon hose there - to wear to West Park Baptist Church on an Easter
Sunday.
Ah, precious, fun memories that are stirred up by reading PECOS GAB.
Gwen Wassom Phillips, Class of '62
Subject:
Las Palmas
Date:
Thu, 11 May 2000 23:29:41 EDT
From:
YaklinRudy@aol.com
How could anyone ever forget Las Palmas? What a wonderful place to eat ! I
am a big fan of chili rellanos and no one in the US made them as good as Las
Palmas. I have tried many places and they just don't make them right.
Celina, thanks for the reminder. I will be dreaming of Las Palmas and all
the great food. I guess that is one thing that can be said about Pecos, we
were never hungry there. lol Well I hope to find everyone doing well.
Thanks again for the great site.
Rhonda Bryant Yaklin
Subject:
Whip Wilson
Date:
Wed, 10 May 2000 19:27:31 -0500
From:
Lou McCasland lou@world-net.net
Organization:
Castroville Airport, Inc.
Hello:
I remember Whip Wilson or know of him when he
worked at the filling station at Davis Mountain
Station between Toyah and Kent in the early
1940's. I remember going to the movie all morning
on Sat. and we could see all of those western
movies along with many cartoons. Those were the
days!!!!
Lou (Sonny) McCasland
Subject:
Hot Tamale Harry
Date:
Wed, 10 May 2000 14:11:58 -0500
From:
"c wayne joplijn" cwjoplin@peoplescom.net
The man who sold tamales out of a two wheel crt answered to the name of
"Hot Tamale Harry." Best hot tamales you ever tasted made from jack
rabbit. I know because I used to watch him hunt them out behind our house
- - close to Crow Packing, or Wynn Produce as it was called then.
C. Wayne Joplin
Class of '43
Subject:
The Old Cowboy
Date:
Tue, 9 May 2000 13:31:20 -0500
From:
"c wayne joplijn" cwjoplin@peoplescom.net
The "Old Cowboy" who used to come to town for the rodeos was probably Fritz
Stegler. Poor old Fritz used to work all year on various ranches and save
his money so he could come to Pecos for a few days and get rip roarin'
drunk, then back to work again. Also, to answer your question about who
remembers Woolworths - - - I remember when that was a vacant lot.
C. Wayne Joplin
Subject:
Trip
Date:
Tue, 9 May 2000 22:30:42 EDT
From:
CTaylo2050@aol.com
You guys are a memory trip! I met Bill Moyers in Louisville while I worked
at our local PBS station. When he found out I was from Texas he asked from
where, I told him Pecos. Mr. Moyers informed me that while he attended
college he came to visit Pecos with one of his college buddies and spent the
weekend in our lovely town. I would love to know who that was!
While were going down memory lane - didn't anybody ever go to Las Palmas?
Their food was good or how about the hamburger place on the east side of town
that is owned by Louis Matta? Everytime I go home we order hamburgers from
Cy's Big Burger their fries are better than McDonalds!
From Jeffersonville, Indiana - Celina Acosta
Subject:
cowboy
Date:
Mon, 8 May 2000 23:05:16 EDT
From:
Scrist2@aol.com
Billy, The cowboy you are talking was Fritz Stickler (I think). I remember
the Bell garage downtown, Wimpys hamburger stand across from the post office
next to Bell garage. I remember the Western Auto store on highway 80 behind
the Plaza hotel that had Sanders drug and the news stand. Remember the man
who sold tamales out of a cart. I remember Mr. Scutters store across from
the elementary school.
Best Regards,
Sonny Crist
Subject:
FAMOUS PEOPLE IN PECOS
Date:
Mon, 8 May 2000 20:02:32 -0500
From:
"Joy Ray" joyray2@earthlink.net
In 1965, Martha Huckabee and I went back stage to meet the folk/comedy musicians who were playing at our Southern Assembly at the Pecos
H.S. Later, the guitarist came over to my house and played guitars and sang out in my front yard with Martha and me. The next day he and
his co-star came to my house for some of my Mom's famous "fried taters", homemade corn bread, and pinto beans. Mom always loved those
"surprise guests." But like most Pecosites she made them feel right at home.
Imagine my surprise a few years later in college at SWTSU when I glanced at the TV in the lobby to see this same young man on The
Monkees. Yes, it was Mike Nesmith. I later met John London when he left the music industry for the newspaper industry here in San
Antonio. John is on several albums with James Taylor.
Pecos may be small but we had many famous and colorful people visit us. Gosh, these trips down memory lane are great!
Joy Brown Ray Class of 1966
Subject:
re: Streaker
Date:
Mon, 8 May 2000 16:27:56 -0500
From:
cwilson@mccoys.com
Hey, Everyone!
In reference to the streaker -- I am not sure of the individual who ran down the
street, but Ray Stephens' song "The Streak" came out in 1974.
I remember well because it first aired on KIUN the day I was expelled for a
"satirical streak while wearing long-handles, gold tennis shoes, purple and gold
socks, blue long sleeve shirt tied around waist, and burgundy wool cap" during
the 1974 Junior Class Friday night presentation of "The Many Loves of Doby
Gillis". I was expelled for three days on the Tuesday before Easter of that
year. I actually enjoyed a whole week off for Easter with the Friday, Saturday,
Sunday, and Monday out from school for the holiday and my three day addition.
When I told my dad about the expellation, after dinner of course, he sat quietly
for about five minutes. I stood at "parade rest" until he told me about when he
was disciplined for falling asleep in study hall (boy, were the rules severe
when he was in school). He asked why I was expelled, and after I told him he
was silent for about fifteen minutes. He then grounded me "until further
notice". I went into the kitchen, turned on the radio, and the announcer
introduced that new song by Ray Stephens. Not good timing.
On the "Crazy Day" at West Pecos Jr. High (later Crockett Jr. High), which was
the Monday I was out on expellation, three guys showed up in nothing but their
long johns!! And nothing was done to them because it was "Crazy Day".
Anyway, the outcome was that the School Board looked into and began the in-house
suspension program of not expelling students but keeping them at the school in a
class by themselves.
I wish everyone well and God Bless!!
Curtis Wilson
formerly known as "Jughead"
Subject:
The Babb Bros.
Date:
Mon, 8 May 2000 00:16:58 -0500
From:
"Michael Beckham" mcsbpb@home.com
Are Kirby and Bill still living in Pecos?
Subject:
Whip Wilson
Date:
Sun, 07 May 2000 15:52:37 -0500
From:
Karen Rolan rolank@hub.ofthe.net
Hi, first let me say I really enjoy Pecos Gab. Thanks for having this
site. I graduated in 1957 and Pecos Gab rekindles memories for me.
I am writing to comment on Barbara Johnson Whisenhunt's email on Whip
Wilson (Hi, Barbara). I remember when I was about 8 or 9 years old, a
cowboy was sitting on a stool in the Pecos Drug Store and signing
autographs on paper he tore from a steno pad. I got one of those
autographs and it was Whip Wilson. Everyone said he was on his way to
Marfa to visit his parents who lived on a ranch there. He had flown as
far as he could and was riding the bus the rest of the way and was
waiting for the next bus connection. He must have walked uptown as the
bus station was on Highway 80. I kept that autograph for years. He was
very genial about signing autographs for all the children and we were
lined up. Does anyone else remember that? Now I wonder after reading
the web site Ray Boulter referred to whether it was Whip Wilson.
Whoever it was made a lot of children happy that day.
Karen Holder Rolan
Subject:
Remember ?
Date:
Sun, 7 May 2000 12:47:40 EDT
From:
Steamindmn@aol.com
Al`s was the drivein that had service that was great but a bunch of us
remember "Mickey" MacDonald (sp). She had teenagers and was great. If we
started getting out of hand she would scold us in a nice way that made us
take notice. Does anyone know her real name? I think she was known as
Mickey because she went to work the first day wearing her sons belt with his
name embossed on the back and it just seem to stick. How many of you
remember Ben`s Pharmacy, Saunders Drug (or was that Sanders) & Woolworths all
on the corner of 3rd & Oak. The Matinees at the Cactus theater. Do you
remember when the Grand theater was new and then the State came along and it
was the absolute beauty of the area. Do you remember the cowboy who only
came to town for the rodeo week and what his nickname was. He was an older
man and street danced with women from 16 to 80. I think he enjoyed the
celebration more than anyone.
Subject:
The Streaker
Date:
Sat, 6 May 2000 03:45:08 EDT
From:
Pegzboots@aol.com
I was apparently gone from Pecos by the time of the "famous" 77 or 78 streak
they were talking about, but there's a necessary correction here.... Ray
Stevens released "The Streak" in 1974. I know this because Curtis Wilson
(I'm sure he'll hate me for this) did a sort of pseudo-streak across the
stage of our Junior Play that year ( a lot of interesting things happened
that night)...... Sorry, Curtis, I couldn't resist.
Peg II
Subject:
looking for a newspaper article
Date:
Fri, 05 May 2000 23:17:33 CDT
From:
"Yvonne Acosta" rainbow_ya@hotmail.com
Well I must say I too am very surprised that the big town of Pecos has this
site. For those of you that may remember me, I am "Chocolate" I am looking
for the newspaper article that was on the front cover of the Pecos
Enterprise on May 05,2000. The article was on a dear friend N. Mata whom
was killed in October of '95. She was honored at the sports banquet on the
4th and I would like a copy of this article if possible. Her uniform that
she wore during the years of '87-'88 was retired. She wore this uniform
when we won the state tournament in '87 and it would mean a lot to me if I
could get a copy of the article. If anyone can assist me I would appreciate
it very much.
Thanks,
Chocolate
Subject:
Your gab
Date:
Fri, 5 May 2000 17:09:47 -0700
From:
"JAMES GRIGAR" boult@wcc.net
All of this talk about remembering is great. The excerpt below are from my new book, "Supervisor Inflicted Ignorance" which is in part a
humorous and nostalgic look back at the Dime stores of the 50s and is based on the F.W. Woolworth store in Pecos.
MY TURN
Then it happened: It is my turn. It is actually happening to me. I had gotten to ride in the front seat all the way to the store. I assured my younger brother
that he was too young to go into the store. I was about to burst waiting for mom to park the car and put money into the parking meter in front of the store.
Once she had opened the car door, I jumped from my seat and headed for the front door. I told my mother that I could open the door all by myself. The big
doors always seemed to open so easily. The fact that mom was helping me never occurred to me.
When I entered the doors, I knew I had found heaven. It was just the “biggestest” place that I had ever seen. It looked just as the preacher described it to me
last Sunday. The fact that the door to heaven had a large sign just above it with the letters “F. W. WOOLWORTH 5 & 10” did not seem important.
When I entered the doors I looked to my right and noticed the chrome bars at eye level. They were the same height as the monkey bars at school. Before I
could test their durability, mom caught my hand. I was to learn later in life the bars were for the adults to direct them into the store.
THE STALLION
As I turned to follow mom into the store, my heart jumped into my throat. There it was! The Stallion! I had heard about it but had never seen it until now.
Actually, what I had focused on was a small child’s coin operated pony ride. Most of the dime stores had some type of child's ride located at the front of
the store by the registers. The ride, which operated by putting coins into the small box beside the head, would allow the child (once astride the ride) to enjoy
the movement of the ride for several moments for a quarter. Now for the skeptical adult who is reading this book, that is your factual and logical explanation
of the stallion.
However, when you are four years old, your imagination can take over your entire mind at a moment like this. All I could see was a golden steed, pawing the
ground in anticipation of the adventure of my dreams. I stared at the proud head, the sleek neck and the golden tail. The saddle that rested upon his back was,
in my eyes, pure silver. I could hear only the sound of Roy and Trigger, and the Lone Ranger yelling, “Hi Ho Silver, Away!”
The store and the shopping experience were left in the real world far behind the open country and me. I could see the black hats of the cattle rustlers getting
away. I vaulted (actually, Mom lifted me) on to the metal saddle.
I dug my imaginary spurs into the great horse's side. The stallion reared up and my knees clamped his sides. I dug my imaginary spurs into his sides to urge
him on. I pulled my Roy Rogers hat down across my eyes. The great stallion lunged forward into my imaginary cowboy’s dream. I reached for my white
plastic handled six shooters. I realized that mom had made me take off my six-shooter cap pistols when we started to go shopping. I remember hanging them
on the doorknob and rushing back. I promised myself never again would I let mom talk me into going anywhere without my six shooters. My problem was
solved when I realized I still had my trusty first finger that was always loaded. I quickly took aim and fired. I watched the bad guys fall, one by one. I blew
the smoke that always came up after firing my trusty pistol. My mind rushed back to the present as I felt the great horse slowing to a stop. The bad guys
had all stopped and held up their hands. They knew their cattle rustling days were over. I slipped from my imagination back to the store. I watched as Roy
and Trigger disappeared into the candy department. I took my mother’s hand to continue the shopping trip.
In Christian Love
Ray & Jo Ann Boulter
boult@wcc.net
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