FORUM ETIQUETTE:

VHS Forums is an ongoing dialogue between classmates.  There are no items, topics, subtopics, etc.  The FORUM IS INTENDED for reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. All of us on the Reunion Committee welcome and encourage your use of these forums to share memories and stories as well as providing updates on your lives since leaving Victoria High School.

Please use good judgment when posting messages. Personal attacks, political and religious messages, as well as inappropriate language will be removed immediately.

Forums work when people participate - so don't be bashful!  Click the "Post Response" button to add your entry to the forum.

Cynthia Lynn Macha (Hanson)

Oh and GIG 'EM!!!!!

Colleen Dorney (Klingseisen)

SPOTLIGHT STINGAREE:  WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

CAROL MUELLER GRUEN

She was tall, friendly with a big smile and a contagious laugh.  She was fun to be around, and she had (and still has) great hair.  Carol Mueller Gruen was honorable, poised and well-liked by all.  Enjoy catching up with her in this episode of Spotlight Stingaree: Where are they now?

Life for me began in Victoria.  First on Mimosa Street then onto College Drive.  On Mimosa, Tommy Seerden lived across the street and Grace Dohmann lived a couple blocks away.  We attended Smith Elementary.

My earliest friends were my church friends.  Grace, Linda Mueller, Shirley Williamson and Becky Spong.  They all ended up being at VHS with me.

My family moved to College Drive when I was in second grade; that move introduced me to many people my age.  On our street, there was Martha and Margie Goodwin, Jeff New and eventually Ellen Swanson and Eddie Cook.  I’m sure there are others I’m missing. Around the corner was the whole “Bon Aire” crowd:  Mary Jane Quitta, Karla Bierman, Mark and John Godfrey, John Kolodzey, Carolyn Buttram, Kathy Montgomery, Paula and Paul Rouse and Mark Keag.  That street was a force to be reckoned with.  And then around another corner was Monte Erben. Those were days when you had to be home by supper time.  I remember during the Cuban Missile Crises having to walk/bike home and our parents had to report back to the school what time we arrived.  I also remember the time when I rode my bike to school, and this little dog started chasing me and nipping at my heels and I have never pedaled so fast in my life.  I got to school and had a little trickle of blood down the back of my calf where my foot slipped on the pedal!!!  The dog was a little chihuahua and to this day I do not like that breed!!  And I am a huge dog person.

Then we all moved on to Crain Jr. High.  Not much to report, except I was already too tall and had a size 10 feet, I’m sure.  My old Maine Trotters were not in style!!  And I remember trying to do a vocal contest with Melody Adams and I was awful…just awful! I couldn’t carry an alto part, and she was so patient, and I know I let her down.  Sorry Melody.

After Crain it was on to Victoria High School which was great.  I developed many new friendships and became involved in Victoriadores.  I rode to school with my older brother Mark in our Ford Pinto that you could fill up for two dollars at the Diamond Shamrock by the Playhouse Theater across from school AND get your bonus free glass AND S&H Green Stamps.  Wow, what a deal!!  I still use those smoke gray glasses at my second home.  Why not?! 

Beside Victoriadores, I tried to get involved in Student Council but never got elected.  After two tries, I stopped running.  (My ego could only take so much!)  However, I was a member of Future Teachers of America and somehow, I was elected president of that!! (Thank you, Cindy Macha!!).   I really wish I’d done acting or been involved in the school play or something that forced me outside my comfort zone.  I also wish I had played tennis or basketball so I could have experienced a team sport and the concept of working together and being one.  I don’t regret Victoriadores; I liked moving around and dancing and staying busy.  It was a good thing that I was paired with Carolyn Buttram on locker decorating. Carolyn was so creative and great with scissors and construction paper, and I was good at...hummm…pasting and taping!!

Many thanks to Cindy Macha for teaching me to slalom water ski in the Rockport Ski Basin; it was indeed a proud moment. I don’t think I emptied the gas tank trying to get up, but I’m sure I should have offered her some gas money!!  And I loved stopping on the way at the grocery store in Rockport to get their yummy banana pudding.  

I also fondly remember Loree Starkey and me sitting on my back porch dreaming up the senior skit we were to present as juniors at prom.  I loved working with her and coming up with our Three Ring Circus theme. 

It really was a great thing to grow up in Victoria. The small-town atmosphere was good for me.  I remember going to Riverside Park for a baseball game and bumping into someone at a stop sign. (They did not advance fast enough for me.) I got out of my car and so did the other person and wouldn’t you know it, it was someone who knew my parents.  Ugh!  But it was good in that no harm was done, and we got back into our cars and drove away.  Of course I couldn’t let this slip by my parents, as I am sure they knew before I got home.

Then I moved on to Texas A&M.  Whoop!  I once wanted to go to Texas Tech because it was closer to the mountains, and I loved to ski.  At some point in high school my parents took us skiing.  We had no ski clothes, so we waterproofed our blue jeans and bought thick jackets. I was scared to death to take the chair lift up the small intermediate slope but found it to be very fun. I thought for sure I was destined to be a skier!!  Double black diamond slopes had me at first try!!  

Despite my desire to ski, my parents encouraged me to attend A&M as my older brother Mark was there (studying engineering) and I could ride back and forth with him.  So off I went to A&M, and I am so glad I did.  I loved my experience at A&M.  So many Victoria students went there that it wasn’t unusual to see them walking across campus. I loved everything about A&M. The dorm life, midnight yell practices and the intermural sports made it a great place for me.  My closest friends now are women that I met there through clubs and dorm life.  

Back in high school, Marie May and I were chosen to attend Girls’ State, a summer camp that exposed girls from communities across Texas to the process of government.  I had no idea why I was chosen, and didn’t think much of it, but it was an honor and I’m glad I went.  I met a girl there from Lufkin, and she ended up at A&M and we became very close friends, and we are still friends today.  

At A&M my passion for skiing didn’t end as I was able to assist the PE department with teaching lessons on Mount Aggie!!  Does anyone remember that lovely place?  It was white astroturf with pellets on it to make it slippery. It was set up right next to G Rollie White.  Because I assisted with ski lessons, I went on the A&M Ski Club ski trip free.  So much fun!!!

 My first major was Elementary Education but after one semester, I decided to try business.  I ended up majoring in accounting and graduated in 1979 and then moved to Houston. I passed the CPA exam - not saying how long that took but my dad would always remind me that he had never seen a CPA certificate with the grades posted on it!!!  As a mature adult I realized that I wasn’t made for a job that requires sitting at a desk.  After four years, I went to work as a bank loan officer. I met my husband at my first job at a public accounting firm in Houston.  We were married in 1984, and I became stepmom to his two children and then mom to two of my own children.   We have nine grandchildren ranging in ages from 23 to four months!!!   I am so blessed by all their lives. 

For the first five years of my married life, Frank and I lived in Sugar Land.  After I had our first child, I became a stay-at-home mom. During this time, I was asked to join a group of women in a singing group called Sugar and Spice that entertained in nursing homes, hospitals and at various events.  It was fun and we practiced hard; those women were the most kind, gracious ladies and they helped me so much that I am forever grateful to them.  It was a highlight of my life at a time because I was very unsure of myself, and I lived in a community where I knew very few people; they were such a blessing.

One thing I have done of which I’m proud is riding in the MS150.  I know several people with that disease and was happy to wear their name on my scarf.  My youngest son was in middle school at the time and it was a great mother/son activity.  It was a wonderful experience for us.  

My husband worked with a multi-national company.  When some of the personnel from Tanzania were in Houston visiting us, they would tell me that it was a mistake not to come visit.  My response was that I had not even yet been to the Grand Canyon, so Africa wasn’t on my radar.  But through their persuasion, I eventually ended up in Botswana and Tanzania multiple times.  I have never regretted it.  Africa is an incredible place.  I still remember standing in the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa, looking north at what I felt like was the entire continent of Africa and feeling so overwhelmed at the thought of God and how great he is and how small I am and that he knows me even so.  That was 25 years ago.  Since then, I have had trips to many incredible places where I witnessed the wildebeest crossing a river in Serengeti National Park and watched the Maasi dance and sing. But more than anything else, I will never forget the privilege of meeting the two Tanzanian boys, Prosper and Gifte, that we sponsored through Compassion International.  I met them at their school, went to their homes and met their siblings and parents and that experience changed me forever. God is alive and active all over the world.  What a blessing those boys were to me.  It is not often that sponsors get to meet the children they have been writing to and praying for, but God blessed me with that meeting in 2008.

Another gift to me was being able to travel to Normandy, France.  Frank and I went with the Traveling Aggies in conjunction with the WWII Museum.  It was a remarkable journey. I will always remember seeing the cemeteries of our troops, the Allied troops and the German troops.  

I have also been blessed to travel on several mission trips to Bolivia, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Uganda.  All are wonderful places, but Uganda is the most special as it is now the home of my youngest son and my five grandchildren.  

My life has changed considerably in the last ten years.  I am mostly at home, as I am the main caregiver to my husband who suffers from peripheral neuropathy and dementia (Alzheimer’s).  “Don’t cry for me Argentina” as I am blessed to be able to do this and not worry about how I will pay the next bill.  It is not a life I would have chosen; I would prefer to be on missions and traveling, but it is the life I have, and I will take it.  We all have our burdens to bear, whether it is our own aches and pains, our adult children’s or grandchildren’s struggles, or our parent’s or spouse’s problems.  We all do the best we can, and by the grace of God I will continue to do so.  

Today I am still friends with Martha Goodwin, Grace Dohmann, Carolyn Buttram, Kathy Montgomery and Linda Ullman.  While there are times in our lives when we have connected more than now, I know that they have my back and would come running if I was in need.  And Marc Ashley, Loree Starkey and Cindy Macha are friends I still connect with on occasion, but not as often as I should.  Life just gets in the way sometimes. 

Things friends have taught me:  I remember Martha Goodwin always telling me to accept a compliment.  I should not just blow it off or make an excuse about it.  If someone says, Carol, your hair looks great today, just say thank you and don’t say, oh my gosh, you need glasses!!

And another friend in college taught me this motto for life:  Comparison kills contentment.  Be content with your life, where you are, what you are doing to improve in certain areas, and don’t compare yourself to others or the world. 

A goal I have is to try hard to speak kind words to those who don’t seem too happy—who show up to meetings with a chip on their shoulder, or who are upset or depressed. A kind word spoken goes a long way to help others, and if not a word spoken, a big smile! I try to do this, especially when I’m in a country where I cannot speak the language.

Cynthia Lynn Macha (Hanson)

I loved readding about your life Carol.  We share many of the things you mentioned other than being an Aggie! I have ridden the MS 150 4 times and loved every minute of it even though my butt would hurt for days after!!!! My husband and I got to go to Normandy in September and I like you will be forever touched by the experience.  You are such a kind and dedicated woman Carol and I feel honored to know you. The way you honor God in so many ways is such an inspiration!!!  

Nancy Susan North

So beautiful Carol!  What wonderful life experiences! I always remember you because you were always smiling and always seemed happy.

James Montgomery (Monty) Erben

Carol,

What a Tremendous pleasure it is to read about your life after VHS, many smiles.  Thinking back, we really did have a group in that little neighborhood, didn't we?

We fondly remember the time we ran into you at the Cancer Charity event in Sugarland.  Our thoughts and Prayers are with you in your current journey through life.

All the Best,

Monty

PS. I was the fortunate beneficiary of the Carol and Carolyn locker decorations.  Thanks again for that.

Marie May (Myers)

Carol, I never really understood Girls' State either. But it was fun. Also wanted to thank you again for letting my church group stay at your parents home when we came to Victoria.  And thanks for coming to check on me when I got sick in health class while our teacher described a horrific car accident in detail!

I also remember your smile and you always being happy.  Hope to see you in April. God bless you!

Colleen Dorney (Klingseisen)

SPOTLIGHT STINGAREE: WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

DANIEL ALLAN RAMIREZ

You won’t want to miss this one.  Allan Ramirez is humble, determined, hard working and family oriented.  He is one of our class superstars!  Enjoy catching up on Allan in this issue of Spotlight Stingaree;  Where are they now.

When did my Victoria life begin?

I was born and raised here in Victoria Texas.  My dad worked at the Naval Air Force Base in Beeville and commuted to Beeville every day. He retired after thirty years at the age of 53.  My mom had several jobs but was always able to have dinner on the table every day.  It was obvious by the way I looked, that I didn't miss many meals!  I have two sisters, Blanche and Diana.  They both still live here in Victoria.  As a kid, I only knew two addresses, Rosebud Street and Erwin Street.  While living on Rosebud Street, I attended Shields Elementary from first through fourth grade.  Thomas Null and I were in the same class every year.  I remember Thomas as being the fastest kid in school and he was hell at kickball!  After fourth grade, we moved to 2806 Erwin Street where I attended fifth grade at Smith Elementary.  That neighborhood had so many boys that we were always able to make two baseball teams. All we did during the summer months was play baseball at Smith.  It was so much fun! After Smith, I attended Crain, then Victoria High!

Share some memories of growing up in Victoria.

I have memories of always playing baseball.  I remember playing for the city championship in Little League, at the age of 12, and going up against an undefeated team and coming out victorious.  Our team’s name was Optimist!  I remember the games at Riverside Stadium against Stroman and facing Doug Heinhold for the district championship.  The stadium was at full capacity with people standing everywhere, and even around the fence.  Those games were exciting!  Those were memorable games!

I remember going to dances at the Club Westerner and meeting my future wife, Hilda Fernandez.  We met the summer before my senior year, and we're still best friends!  She's been by my side through thick and thin.  Baseball life was not always smooth sailing. 

Who at VHS had an impact on my life!

The people who had an impact on my life were my teammates and Coach Tripson!  There were four of us that made varsity as freshmen.  If it hadn't been for Coach Tripson and the older guys taking us under their wings, we may never have made it. I remember David Ballard, a senior, giving me a ride home every day after practice in his fast GTO.  I loved that car!  We were given the chance to play and develop as ballplayers and without that opportunity, who knows what would have happened!

What having you been doing between 1975 and today?

(Here is a summary of the article written in 2022 by Malcolm Allen, who writes for SABR (Society of American Baseball Research).

“My parents said I started playing baseball when I started walking,” Ramirez recalled. “They said that I would drag a bat everywhere I walked.” Whereas his grandfather had once turned down an opportunity to play professionally in Houston, Ramirez said, “My dad really didn’t play too much baseball, but he’s the one that would always play catch with me while I was growing up. If it hadn’t been because of my father, I know I wouldn’t be as good. He never said he didn’t have time for me when I wanted to throw a baseball.” 

When Ramirez joined his first organized team at age seven, the self-described “husky child” was initially assigned the catcher’s position. His father was the assistant coach. When they came home after the first practice, though, Ramirez explained, “My mom immediately told my dad that her son was not going to play catcher… I ended up playing third and pitcher. So, I guess you can say, if it hadn’t been for my mom, I might have never been a pitcher.”

At Victoria High School, Ramirez boasted an outstanding fastball that overpowered hitters. Three times, he earned. All-District honors.  He compiled a 37-15 overall record for the Stingarees and was named Class 4A All-State as a 1975 senior. In  the amateur draft that June, the Philadelphia Phillies selected him in the 23rd round. “I had no intention of signing a professional contract out of high school,” Ramirez said. “I wanted to go to college, get a degree, and then play professional ball. I always figured, if I was going to make the majors, it would have happened no matter what. I could wait a few years.”

When Ramirez’s mother sent his statistics to colleges across the country, one response came from the University of Texas. In 1975, the Longhorns capped a run of 12 College World Series appearances in 15 years with a national championship. “I had always wanted to come to Texas,” Ramirez said. “I even had a Texas sticker on my car.” But he was put off by the letter from Longhorns coach Cliff Gustafson, saying the school’s scouts would recruit him if his skills warranted it. “It really teed me off. It gave me the notion of ‘Don’t call us. We’ll call you,” Ramirez explained.

Ramirez wound up choosing one of the Longhorns’ conference rivals, Rice University, located in Houston. He acknowledged that the chance to reunite with two former high-school teammates – Mike Macha and Randy Lamprecht – weighed into his decision along with Gustafson’s letter. However, Ramirez also said, “My dad came up with the best reason. He said, ‘Wouldn’t it be something to pitch and beat the best teams in the Southwest Conference [SWC] while playing for a mediocre team?’”

In retrospect, Ramirez conceded that the Owls were “kind of below mediocre.” Rice finished with a losing record in all four of his seasons, posting a .398 overall winning percentage (.298 in SWC play). Personally, though, he proved that he could compete with anybody. In his first SWC start on February 28, 1976, Ramirez no-hit Southern Methodist University in Dallas. The following week, he earned victories in both ends of a doubleheader against Texas Christian University. “His fast ball is major league right now and his curve ball is almost unfair. It just drops off the table,” raved Owls coach Doug Osburn. “He’s really captured this campus. We’ve never had anything like this at Rice before… I get calls at my office all the time with students wanting to know when he’s going to pitch next.”

Allan Ramirez’s baseball career is a story of perseverance and remarkable achievements, particularly during his time at Rice University and his brief but impactful Major League career with the Baltimore Orioles.

Ramirez made history as a freshman at Rice, setting school records with five shutouts and a 1.90 ERA. His 134 strikeouts also shattered the Southwest Conference (SWC) record. But his most memorable college performance came during his sophomore year. On March 27, 1977, Ramirez faced the University of Texas, whose 34-game winning streak was the longest in NCAA history. He pitched an epic 14-inning game, throwing a career-high 232 pitches. Ramirez held Texas scoreless through 12 innings, earning a win after the Owls broke the tie in the 14th. His stamina and determination earned the admiration of Texas coach Gustafson, who called his performance "remarkable."

By the time Ramirez finished his college career, he was Rice’s all-time strikeout leader with 418. His pitching style evolved throughout his time at Rice. Early in his career, he relied heavily on an unorthodox curveball he had learned from an older cousin, throwing it with his wrist facing upwards and his fingers underneath the baseball. It was a pitch that helped him dominate, but as he got older, it became harder to throw with the same effectiveness. “I lost my curveball by the end of my college career,” he said. So, Ramirez turned to a slider, which became his most effective pitch and would serve him well in his professional career.

In 1979, the Baltimore Orioles selected Ramirez in the fifth round of the amateur draft. He spent the next few years climbing through the minor leagues, including a standout season in 1980 with the Charlotte O’s, where he posted a 16-8 record and led the team in strikeouts. It was there that he formed a friendship with Cal Ripken Jr., and the two shared an apartment during winter league play in Puerto Rico. “I remember playing card games with him,” Ramirez recalled, “but he had to win every time.”

Ramirez made his MLB debut in June 1983, stepping in as a starter for the Orioles after injuries decimated the pitching staff. His first start, against the Milwaukee Brewers, was a rocky one, but he settled in and earned a no-decision. Just a week later, he picked up his first big-league win, pitching five solid innings against the Brewers in a nationally televised game. A few weeks later, he made headlines again with a near-shutout against the Oakland A’s. His 3-1 victory was one of the key moments in the Orioles’ rise to the top of the AL East standings.

Ramirez’s success came at a pivotal time for the Orioles, who were missing several key players. Despite moving to the bullpen as the season progressed, Ramirez’s contributions helped the team reach the playoffs. Though he wasn't on the postseason roster, the Orioles honored him with a World Series ring in recognition of his midseason efforts. However, Ramirez's MLB career was short-lived. After suffering an elbow injury and battling shoulder issues, he spent the 1984 season in the minor leagues and was eventually forced to retire after a failed comeback attempt in 1985 due to a torn rotator cuff.

After baseball, Ramirez turned to a career in business, working for Roerig Pharmaceutical in his hometown of Victoria, Texas, where he and Hilda raised their children. Ramirez later worked as a housing salesman and remained active in the local community, coaching his grandson, Ty, in baseball.

Ramirez's legacy lives on in his induction into the Rice Athletic Hall of Fame in 1988. While many of his records have since been broken, he remains a key figure in Rice's baseball history. As the Houston Chronicle noted, "The premier power pitcher in school history," Ramirez helped put Rice’s program on the map, paving the way for future stars like Lance Berkman and Anthony Rendon.

“It amazes me how many people come up to me and just say, ‘232 pitches,’” remarked Ramirez, 45 years after his epic effort against the University of Texas. “They can’t believe it and sometimes neither can I… They also know that I earned a World Series ring and want to see it. I never wear it because it attracts too much attention.”

When asked what baseball fans should know about him, Ramirez answered, “I’m a Christian and I’m mostly a quiet person… I worked very hard to get to the ultimate level of baseball. God gave me a talent, and I used it as long as he saw fit. What I miss about the game of baseball is the guys you played with. I miss the camaraderie you have with your fellow teammates.”

(This link will take you to the complete article:  https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/allan-ramirez/#:~:text=Allan%20Ramirez%20was%20an%20unsung,a%20bat%20everywhere%20I%20walked )

What's going on with my life now? 

I'm retired now and have been for almost two years.  Hilda is still working and will be retiring in 2026.  We live on some land my parents purchased long ago.  Not only do we live on this land, but my two daughters and my sister do as well.  Our four grandkids live about 100 yards away from us.  We get to see them almost every day and that is a blessing!  There is always something to do around the house when you live out in the country.  I have cows to tend to and fences to maintain.  I get to pick up the two youngest grandkids from school every day.  When they are at our home, I try to play games with them, but that only lasts for about an hour.  They wear me out!  Hilda and I consider ourselves very blessed having our grandchildren nearby. Our oldest grandson plays baseball for East High School, and we try to attend all his games.  I just sit back and enjoy the game!  

Lessons I've learned in life!

I don't live in the past, and I don't worry about things I can't control!  I try never to overreact, and to think about what I'm about to say before I say it! 

Favorite Motto or words to live by!

 WWJD (What Would Jesus Do)!

Will I make the Reunion?

Regrettably, I will not be able to attend the Reunion!  I will be out of town that weekend, and I am unable to change my plans.

Hal Shayne Bollman

           I have an Allan Rameriz memory to share. We were on the same team playing summer league teenage baseball. Allan was pitching and I'm sure I was warming the bench. He threw an inside mid level fastball ball to some unlucky batter. Instead of getting out of the way, he turned right into Allans fastball...Nailed him and down he went!! Both coaches ran out to check on the batter who was balled up and in major pain. The other teams coach said "where did he get hit"? Our coach said "in the BALLS"! The other coach said "WHERE"? Our coach said "in the NUTS"!! The other coach said "WHERE"??? Our coach looked him in the eye and said "in the TESTICULES"!!! The other coach said "OOOH, Ok".. Anyway, they brought him back to life and sent him limping down to first. That had to suck gettin' nailed by his fastball, especially in the huevos. I have always admired Allan and what he has accomplished.. great life story. 

Marie May (Myers)

Daniel,  It's so good to hear about your and Hilda's life together.  You have certainly been blessed.  I am so proud to hear of your Orioles career!  Wow, a World Series ring! My husband and I are big Baltimore fans.  We go to games as often as we can and have attended some of their spring training games in Sarasota. So there are at least 3 VHS graduates who are O's fans.  You, me and Brooks.  GO O's!!

(I don't know how to get my picture from showing up)

Tom Kovach

I didn't know you in school, but I did see you around.  I played on the Little League team for the Rotary Club.  Our coach was Mr. Frank Cavazos. The Optimist Club team was our big rival.  I remember that the pitching was the thing to watch out for.  (Wasn't Randy Renfroe also a pitcher on that team?  He lived not far from me.)

I remember that Hilda sat behind me in math class at Crain.  (Can't remember if it was 7th or 8th grade.)  She used to pass notes between me and Pat Wright, who sat behind her.  (The teacher had separated Pat and me for talking too much.)

Glory to God for giving you such talent and a blessed life.

Cynthia Lynn Macha (Hanson)

I LOVED reading about you and your life Allen!  I remember watching you pitch in HS and the cheer for you was "Dan, Dan, he's our man, if he cant do it no one can!" I lso remember you throwing 16 straight strike outs in your senior year( or was it more?) .  Your life is so interesting and you have done a wonderful job representing Christian values.  Thanks for sharing!

R Kevin Jordan

Summertime and Teenage Baseball League.  Batting against Allan was terrifying and possibly life ending (j/k).  I just prayed he had his best control that day. Being the recipient of two of his beanballs in one game (unintentional of course) I did not relish the idea of stepping back into that batter's box. I remember the Umpire telling me "good luck".  But if you could keep your eyes open and manage to hit the ball it would rocket off your bat. Same as with Mark Gentry in Little League. So yeah, good luck!  Allan was the best pitcher any of us ever faced. He could sit you down in three pitches. But there is a reason you see batters making the sign of the cross when they step up to the plate with a fireball thrower like Allan on the mound.

Allan's parents, Dan and Mary, were good friends of my folks having served in the Army together.  They were kind, generous, loving people. When Allan's little sister Diana got married years ago it was a pleasure to do the photos for them. So many good memories, beanballs included.  

Colleen Dorney (Klingseisen)

SPOTLIGHT STINGAREE: WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

NANCY NORTH

She was on the quiet side in high school but large in uniform as the drum major for the band. Nancy North was also in the National Honor Society, Who’s Who, Anchor Club, and various band programs.  Her passions have continued to impress and I know you’ll love catching up with her in this episode of Where are they now?.

When did your Victoria life begin?

I was born in Texas City, TX and lived my first six years in La Marque, TX.  I grew up going to Galveston beach!  My dad was working for Union Carbide, and we got transferred to South Charleston, WV, when I was eight.  We then moved back to Texas when I was starting fourth grade, and that’s when we moved to Victoria.  We lived in the Castle Hills subdivision at 105 Hampton Court.  I went to Stanley Elementary for my fourth and fifth grade years.  I had Mrs. Talley as my fourth-grade teacher and Mrs. Zuck as my fifth-grade teacher. 

My sixth and seventh grade years I went to Crain.  Then in eighth grade I went to Howell.  My ninth-grade year we got transferred again, this time to Spring Branch outside of Houston.  We were there for less than a year and then moved back to Victoria, where I entered Victoria High School after school had started.

Share some memories from growing up in Victoria.

Oh my goodness!  Let me think…

I remember John Nichols and I became good friends.  He lived a few streets over from us.  He taught me about being a ham operator and how to do morse code! 

We lived across the street from Susan Brooks.  We were always over there playing the board game, “The Game of Life”.  So much fun!

I remember Cathy Dorris and I walking to the corner gas station at the front of our subdivision (it seemed like every day!) and getting a coke in the machine (they were glass bottles then) and an ice cream sandwich.  

I loved going to the Saturday movies with our entry fee of 3 coke bottles!

I remember some of us went out one night and TP’d some houses—I have no idea who with and whose houses they were!  But I felt so guilty afterward.

One of my best friends was Gayle Woodward (now Gainer), and every Saturday night we would take turns spending the night at each other’s houses and watching “Project Terror” on TV. Scary!

My best friends also included Stephanie Davis (now Junkin) and Cathy Dorris, and we and a bunch of girls would have frequent slumber parties at Cathy’s house and play poker.  Of course, we never got any sleep!  

And then there were the band trips to the out-of-town games and the summer band camps.  So many stories.  The trumpets were always in trouble!

I specifically remember driving up to West Texas State University in Canyon, TX, with Jerry Junkin, Stephanie Davis, and Philip Holcombe.  It was a 12-hour drive and Fred Junkin, our band director (Jerry’s dad) was driving.  We had a ball!  It was a two-week band camp, and we rehearsed and had one concert each week.  It was great!

Who were some of your VHS bestie’s growing up?

Most of my best friends were in the band.  I was a band geek.  Band and music were my life.  I started entering the UIL (University Interscholastic League) Solo & Ensemble competitions in seventh grade, on piano and clarinet.  I competed all the way through high school, receiving all Superior 1 ratings, which allowed me to go on to the state competitions.  I was also competing in District, Region, Area, and State high school competitions.  So, I was practicing all the time!  

Additionally, I was marching in the band during football season and then preparing for UIL Band Contests in the spring.  I was drum major my Junior year with Billy Laney, a senior (and my boyfriend at the time)—that was the first year the band ever had two drum majors.  I was drum major again in my senior year.  The first time I ever stepped out on the football field as drum major, I was petrified.  But I did it anyway and got through it!  I followed in my father’s footsteps—he was drum major too.  

My best friends were Gayle Gainer, Stephanie Davis, Cathy Dorris, John Nichols, Cullen Duke, Philip Holcombe, Jerry Junkin (who’s now the Director of Bands at UT Austin), Regina Klingle, Cyndi Decker, Connie Green, Karyn Collins, Nancy Nugent, Don Bain, Stephen Buckert, Rodrigo Garcia, Susan Brooks, Carolyn Buttram, Sherry Norfield, Little Joe Alaniz, Jimmy Baker, Dena Neuvar, Resa Johnson.  I hope I didn’t leave anybody out.   We did a lot of things together.  I’m happy to say that most of us are still connected!

 Sherry Norfield and I worked in the library together and had a blast, shelving books and categorizing them!  We had to be quiet, so we whispered all the time!

As a senior I remember sitting in English class, and Mary Jane Quitta was in my class.  Several of us were talking about where we were going to college, and Mary Jane said UT Austin, and I said, “me too!”  Then I said, “do you have a roommate?” she said no, so then I said, “let’s be roommates” and she said “OK!”  And that’s how we became roommates at UT  our freshman year.  I remember one morning I overslept, and in ten minutes I was supposed to be having my private clarinet lesson with the Clarinet Professor.  I was horrified!  I jumped out of bed and Mary Jane said, “I’ll drive you!”  I was only 10 minutes late for my lesson.  I’ll never forget the panic I had.  Thank you, Mary Jane!

Who from VHS had an impact on your life? 

Definitely my band director, Mr. Junkin.  He was very stern and demanded excellence, and somehow you just knew that he wanted the very best from you and for you.  He drew out of each of us way more than we ever thought possible, as musicians and as human beings.  

My freshman history teacher, Esther Williams.  She was strict and took “nothing from nobody”!  She respected us and we respected her.  I learned so much in her class.  She made it easy to learn.  I felt she really wanted us to be successful.  

Tell me about your life since VHS

At Christmas during my senior year, I had the flu and was sick throughout the Christmas holidays.  I woke up one morning and the right half of my face was drooping.  I couldn’t close my right eye or the right side of my mouth.  I found out I had a very bad case of Bell’s Palsy.  It was devastating for me, my last half of my senior year.  I couldn’t play my clarinet.  I had been selected as one of the top eleven clarinets from the Region competition to go on to the Area competition and to try out for the Texas State Band, a dream I had had for all 4 years.  I couldn’t compete because I couldn’t play my horn.  My Area patch was taken away from me.  It broke my heart and affected my life for many years after that.   I am very grateful that the UT Austin Music Department arranged for me to have late auditions for the band and music program, and for scholarships.  A major highlight was when I was selected to be in the UT Wind Ensemble.  I played clarinet alongside Jerry Junkin for four years.

I was looking for universities to attend and apply to.  I was going to attend Sam Houston State University because they had a great music program.  Jerry Junkin was at UT Austin—he was one year ahead of me—and invited me to be on the sideline crew of a UT game with the Longhorn Band.  Well, after that experience, I was hooked!  I went to the University of Texas at Austin instead and auditioned for the Longhorn Band and got in!  When I was there, I was in a movie!  Actually LHB was in the movie.  The movie was “Outlaw Blues” with Peter Fonda and Susan St. James. We got to rub shoulders with them.  It was really fun! I was a LHB member for three years.  It was some of the best years of my life.  I have now been a proud member of the Longhorn Alumni Band for 42 years, and we march once a year in a half-time show at a UT game in the stadium!

My Music degree was a five-year program.  During the summers while at home from UT, I went to summer school at night and worked on pipeline fields during the day for Union Carbide to make money for school.  And it was good money!  We rode around in a truck all along the gulf coast maintaining the pipelines, clearing and painting the rights-of-way for the company.  I worked with Steve Novotny and Mike Gainer.  We also spray-painted buildings, put up barbed wire fencing, fit pvc piping, and did a lot of chipping rust off and painting the pipelines above ground to keep them maintained.  My uniform was a hard-hat, gloves, jeans, long-sleeved white shirt, boots, snake protectors, and goggles.  I was the first woman hired on the crew.  The second year I was named crew chief.  We had many adventures such as snakes, bees, electric fences, running into water moccasins on the rice canals, etc.  

My fourth year at UT the pipeline job was completed, and I needed to find another summer job quickly!  I took my whole spring break looking for jobs, and nobody would hire a student who would be leaving in three months!  That’s when Mary Kay fell into my lap from a grocery store office manager where I was trying to get hired. I became a beauty consultant for the company on March 28^th, 1979.  I was only planning to do it as a “summer job” for the three months, then I was going to quit.  I had a very steep learning curve.  I did not wear makeup and had no clue what skin care was. I was certainly not the “candidate” to be a successful skin care and color consultant!   I never quit Mary Kay after three months as I had originally planned.   I am not a quitter of things.  I like to see things through to see where it takes me.  Instead, I kept working Mary Kay part-time to make extra money, and I saw the bigger picture this company offers.  I decided to go into leadership (Directorship) because of the unlimited potential and financial independence it offered--much better than a teacher's salary!  I never in a million years would have ever guessed down the road this would be my career!

In 1980 I graduated from UT with a Bachelor of Music degree.  I was going to be a band director.  I met my first husband, Tim, in Wind Ensemble.  He was a percussionist.  We got married right after we graduated and moved to Evanson, IL, where I put him through graduate school at Northwestern University, getting his conducting degree.   During that year, I worked for the University as a secretary in the “Development Dept”—that’s the department where they raise money for the university.  I got to meet several actors who were alumni—Charlton Heston, Jerry Orbach, and others.  It was exciting!  

After that year we moved back to Angleton, Texas, where Tim took a band directing job over in West Columbia, TX.  I taught private clarinet lessons and masterclasses for that year, with Mary Kay being a side gig.  Unfortunately, our marriage ended in divorce that year, and I moved back to Austin.   I was single for several years, and then my mother set me up on a blind date with a fellow artist.  His name was Robert.  He was a professional artist and was 20 years older than I was.  He taught me so many things.  He started me on my spiritual journey.  We got married in November of 1986, and were married for seven years.  During that time, I was in a very bad car accident. I was the only survivor.  This was a turning point for me in that I began a very intense period of personal healing, PTSD therapy, and spiritual study and guidance.  Survivor’s guilt is real.   The work saved my life.  I am so grateful for my life today.  

One day Robert was having problems with speaking, reasoning, and counting.  He was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, the fastest growing kind of brain tumor, a glioblastoma grade IV astrocytoma, with no chance of survival.  Besides healing from my car accident, the last two and a half years of his life, were my most difficult and darkest years.  Besides seeing my husband slip away daily, I was now the breadwinner and having to do everything from taking him to tons of doctors’ appointments as well as being his caregiver.  I was widowed at 36 years old.  I’m so grateful for my MK business because I was able to be with him and take care of him, with income still coming in from the business I had built.  I learned from this experience that family is most important, and that we spend way too much time on things that don’t matter.  I learned to appreciate life in a whole new way and not be such a perfectionist!   I stopped sweating the small stuff.

After five years of being single again, I met Steve, my current husband.  He and I were widowed the same year. He lost his wife in a car accident.  We didn’t know each other when we met.  We met by “Divine Appointment”!  We met at a business breakfast and have been together since our second date!  We will celebrate 27 years of marriage on July 11^th.  

My sweet dad passed away with dementia on my birthday in 2010, and my amazing mother passed away three years ago this month on January 5^th, after being bedridden for two years with several strokes.  My sisters and I were their caregivers, and I’m so grateful that we were able to be there for them.  I credit my parents for giving me huge unconditional love, independence, and resilience.  

Overall, I taught clarinet and music for about 30 years in Austin—private instruction and master classes at the numerous junior high and high schools in the Austin area.  I was an adjudicator- and did judging of district, region, area, and state UIL solos and ensemble contests at the high-school level, the same ones I competed in throughout high school!  

I guess I would say one thing I’m very proud of is passing on my music legacy to Stephen Williamson.  I was his private clarinet teacher. I taught him from sixth grade all the way through his senior year in high school. Today, Stephen is the Principal Clarinetist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and has been for many years.  I am so proud of him!  

What’s going on in your life now? 

I’m still working!  I love my career and I’m not ready to retire yet.  I have big goals and dreams, many of which have already come to pass!   I am in re-qualification right now for my 13^th free Pink Cadillac, and our unit is on-target for our highest year yet--$650,000 in one year. (Our previous was over $550,000 in a fiscal year.)   My goal before I retire is to have my unit honored in the Million Dollar Club.  Today I have 150 women in my growing MK organization across the country that I train and coach to have successful businesses, and I build self-confidence and self-esteem in women so that they can be, do, or have anything they want in their lives.   

What Steve and I do for fun is…we love to have experiences!  We love to travel and have traveled all over the US and the world.  Steve worked for Applied Materials for eleven years.  During that time, he worked in China for half the year—he was back and forth to China and the US.  I got to go to China twice—fantastic experience!   I spent three weeks in Shanghai and then went back with him on another trip to Xi’an for several weeks and got to see the eighth Wonder of the World, The Terra Cotta Army.  It was incredible. 

We just got back from Iceland in July, and last August we took a two-week Viking River Cruise down the Danube River to celebrate our 25^th wedding anniversary, and visited Regensburg, Germany; Passau, Krems, Vienna, & Salzburg, Austria; and Budapest.  

Steve tried to retire twice but got bored!  So now he works for Samsung as a Technical Trainer. After living in Austin since I started at UT in 1975 (50 years ago!), Steve and I just bought a new house and moved to Hutto, TX.  He’ll be working at the new Samsung Taylor facility when it opens next year.  I can take my business anywhere.

I am still playing my clarinet and still teaching.  I have been playing first clarinet in the Austin Symphonic Band, the Official Band of the City of Austin, for over 40 years.  I love it.  We have 6 concerts a year.   I was also a member of a Quintet we created called “The Quintessentials” for years.  We played all over Austin as a pro bono outreach program to senior living, nursing homes, schools, private parties, the Capital at Christmastime, etc.  

Today, my pro bono outreach program is that I teach clarinet master classes and private lessons in the Austin Area high schools, especially to students who cannot afford private lessons.  My dream one day is to establish a Music Foundation in honor of my father, who was an extraordinary flute player in his youth.

Are there any lessons you've learned along the way?

Through high school and for many years after, I was very introverted and very insecure of myself.  I was an overachiever to counteract all my fears.  

Learn to love yourself, flaws and all.  You cannot deeply and truly love another unconditionally until you learn to love yourself first.  You cannot give away what you do not have inside.  Have compassion and grace and forgiveness for yourself along this journey we call Life.  You are unique and you are loved by God.

I am so grateful for my Mary Kay business for 45 years.  It has given me the self-confidence to be who I am.  It has given me high self-esteem and has developed my feminine side!  It has been a major contributor to getting me out of my shyness, fears, and comfort zone.  It has given me freedom and courage to be my authentic self, and now I pass that on to others.

Finally, is there anything else you'd like to add or share about your life?

I have two wonderful stepchildren, my daughter Betty, from my late husband Robert, and my stepson, Damon from Steve, my current husband.  Betty works in geriatrics in Washington state, and Damon is a professional chef living in CA.  Betty has a beautiful daughter, my step-grandchild, Janey, who is a veteran and was Military Police, and who is getting her PhD in Mexico City right now.  Steve and I have three rescue dogs, Frodo, Lucy, and Ethel.  

My passions besides my husband Steve and my sisters Marnelle and Camille would be my stepchildren and step-granddaughter.  And of course, I have a passion for music!  I love reading, hiking, being in nature, and I love movies.  My parents were very earthy, and my mother was a Renaissance woman, a pilot, and an artist.  My dad was a top manager for Union Carbide.  I grew up hunting, fishing, crabbing, and camping.  I was very much a tomboy.  I guess that’s where I learned to love and appreciate nature.  When I’m in trees and nature, or listening to music, I am at my calmest.  

Favorite Motto or words to live by: 

You are enough.  You are worthy.  You are Love and You are Loved.  For so many years of my life, I felt I was never enough or worthy of all good things.    I want others to know their value, that they are priceless, and that our Life is a Gift.  My favorite scripture is Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted in the earth!”  If we just take a moment to get quiet, we will always hear His guidance for our lives.

Will you make the 50th Reunion on April 12, 2025? 

Yes!

Bill Trevino

What a great story!  Quite a number of adventures, challenges, and opportunities.  I applaud your pro bono efforts -- paying it forward!  Hopefully we'll see you in April. 

Carol Ann Mueller (Gruen)

Nancy, this was wondrful to read.  Why is it that 50 years later, I'm learning so much about so many of my classmates.  You are amazing, your advice and insight into life was so good and I'm hoping to  catch up in person at the reunion.  Thanks for posting.

Colleen Dorney (Klingseisen)

SPOTLIGHT STINGAREE:  WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

MARC ASHLEY
 

He was a veritable teen heartthrob, a member of Who’s Who, part of Student Council and a high school sportsman. We all knew and appreciated Marc Ashley for his determination in battle on the field.  But it’s his strength and resolve in the battles of life that set him apart now.  He is a treasured classmate, please enjoy his story of resilience and triumph in this edition of Where are they now?

When did your Victoria life begin?  

I was born in Yoakum and then moved to Corpus Christi, Alice and on to Goliad.  When I was five, we moved to Victoria as my father was beginning his insurance career with Farm Bureau.  

I initially attended Presbyterian Day school for kindergarten, then I went on to attend Stanley Elementary, Crain and Howell middle school and VHS.  

Who were some of your VHS besties growing up?

I had a passion for sports and spent most of my time outside the classroom participating in sports. I played four years of varsity baseball, three years of varsity football and a semester of basketball during my junior year.  Naturally, my closest friends were my teammates.  To my regret, I don’t communicate as frequently as I should with those who were “athletic besties.”  Brooks Schramm, Bill Kyle, Allan Rameriz, John Rendon, Shane Bollman, Billy Starr, David Garcia and Monty Urban were my good friends both on and off the practice fields.  

Outside of sports Martha Goodwin, Carol Mueller, Loree Starkey, Cindy Macha were my  “Besties.” Martha, Carol and I still text regularly.  Loree and I speak on the phone periodically.  Cindy and I don’t communicate much, but I am extremely grateful for her support as I have dealt with my health issues over the last several years.  There were so many others (Colleen, Margaret, Grace) that encouraged and supported me when I needed it most.  

Who from VHS had an impact on your life and how? 

Coach Tripson, the baseball coach at VHS, was influential in the lives of all who played for him.  I remember being removed from the team bus during my junior year with several others for not getting a haircut as we had all promised.  I rode with my parents to the game in Rosenburg and I had my mom bring scissors for a quick trim on the ride to Rosenburg.  I never pressed Coach Tripson after that.  

Tell me about your life since VHS. What has been happening between 1975 and 2025?

After high school graduation I planned to attend Baylor University with hopes of playing baseball. However, weeks after high school graduation I received a call from the coach at Texas A&M offering me a baseball scholarship.  I remember visiting A&M with Allan Rameriz shortly after the baseball coach had called us as part of the recruiting process.  A&M really wanted Allan, so they offered us both scholarships.  I am sure they thought that since we played together for four years in high school that we would want to play together in college.  Unfortunately for A&M, Allan decided to attend Rice University, and I chose A&M.  Tough luck for the Aggies.  

To this day I honestly believe if Allan had gone to A&M, we would have gone to the College World Series in Omaha.  We had two other pitchers in our class that went on to pitch in the major leagues.  Allan was the best pitcher to enter the Southwest Conference as a freshman.  His freshman year he pitched against us and struck out eight of the first nine batters.  He had many games over his four years at Rice that he was just unhittable.  I remember, when he pitched in high school, it was not a question as to whether we would win or not, it was just a matter of what the score would be at the end of the game.  He was just that good.

It was only weeks after I decided to go to A&M that school started, and I realized that A&M was the best place for me.  I enjoyed everything about college life, except for the academics (I am told that is the reason you go to college).  I wasn’t sure after my initial fall semester if I was going to make it academically but finally, after four and a half years and a little help from my friends, I made it.  But now what?  Initially, I lacked the discipline to excel academically.  There were times that I felt like college might never end. Realizing it was becoming harder to find the next party, I decided to work a little harder on the reason that I went to college…to get an education.  Ater attending summer school at UHV and an extra semester at A&M, I finally graduated!

Shortly after graduation from A&M, Monty Urban’s father, who was the president of Luby’s at the time, offered me a management trainee position.  After nine months and no social life, I decided to try the unthinkable, and entered A&M’s real estate master’s degree program.  I did well academically once I found a subject of interest.

Following graduate school, I began working for a national real estate company in Houston appraising and conducting feasibility studies for lenders and commercial real estate developers. Despite enjoying the work, the extended travel schedule had me constantly on the road, often for a week at a time, and with two young kids it was difficult. 

In 1993, I accepted a position as a VP of asset manager for a bank in Los Angeles.  So, the hillbillies from Texas packed up and moved to California.  After several years of high rise living downtown, our kids were approaching school age, so we moved to South Pasadena (5 miles north of downtown and just down the street from the Rose Bowl in Pasadena).  Once the kids started school, our social life changed significantly, and our circle of friends grew.  I got involved in coaching youth sports (basketball, soccer and baseball).  I was blessed to have coached good kids, but we never were able to win very much.  South Pasadena is better known for its academics than its athletics.  I coached three kids (from the same team) that attended Ivy League schools (U Penn, Princeton, Columbia/Harvard).  We competed hard on the field but would have done much better in a debate tournament than the baseball field!

In addition to baseball, I coached both my son and daughter in basketball.  Highlights in basketball were much like baseball.  Smart kids, but my team wasn’t too terribly athletically inclined.  One of the players on my basketball team attended college every summer starting at age 13.  Also, of interest, my basketball team shared a half court with Kevin Costner’s team, who was coaching his son Joe at the time.  

Living in Los Angeles / South Pasadena was never in our plans, but I can’t imagine it working out any better for us than it did.  We ended up with so many good friends whom we still visit regularly.  With much sadness we ended our stay in California in August 2003.  Our stay ended with a community-wide party and a special edition of the local newspaper written about the stories and experiences that our family had with our many friends.  After ten years in California, (which included daily trips to the Republican Party headquarters to get new George Bush signs that had been stolen from our yard) our kids were approaching middle school, so we moved back home to Texas.  The job I initially accepted in California with the bank was only expected to last three to four years, but we ended up staying ten years and loved every minute of it.  

Having moved back to Texas with no job created some anxiety. However, due to the significant increase in property values in California I was able to start our own real estate self-storage business.  With some good timing and a lot of luck, I was able to purchase additional self-storage properties of my own.  Currently, I own several self-storage properties and many office warehouses.  I also made several other investments which included buying a small bank in east Texas, a vending business and a Little Caesar’s restaurant.  Although I have relied on luck as a significant part of my strategy, luck was not with me in the restaurant business.  I opened Little Caesar’s restaurant with my son in Giddings, Texas.  After six years of hard work and only small profits to show for it, we sold the restaurant to an operator that had multiple locations in the Austin area.  

Following our move back to Texas, I continued to officiate football.  Things went well after officiating small college football (Junior College and D III), in California. The year following our arrival back in Texas, I made the jump from small college to Division I.  I subsequently spent ten years officiating on the field and another ten years in the instant replay booth.  I had the time of my life and travelled all over the country officiating games in the Big 12, Mountain West and Southland Conferences.  I would have continued officiating had it not been for a series of injuries and illnesses.

In the late 2000’s I suffered a concussion, a torn ACL and MCL while officiating a game at Texas State University.  Several years later I discovered that I had advanced cirrhosis of the liver.  Cirrhosis is the result of persistent liver damage over many years, somehow, I was able to damage my liver without drinking any alcohol since college. 

In 2020, I found out that I had cancer (Hodgkin Lymphoma).  Not only was I surprised, but by the time it was discovered the disease was in the advanced stages.  Weeks later I began heavy doses of chemotherapy.  My party mix (chemo) exceeded what my body could handle which sent me to the hospital for several extended stays.   Over the past several years I’ve had so many hospital stays that I have become friends with several of the nurses on the seventh floor of Memorial Hermann.  With many kind words and prayers from VHS classmates and ten months of chemo I was in remission, not cured, but on my way to recovery.

In early 2021, shortly after football season I begin having sharp chest pains.  After a stress test and other exploratory testing, the cardiologist had bad news, I was going to have to have triple bypass surgery.  This is something I hope no one ever experiences.  Every move I made for the next three months was painful.  I wasn’t even allowed to drive for three months. 

In the spring of 2024, I started experiencing a violent, persistent cough that led to multiple trips to the emergency room and minor surgery to control the internal bleeding I was experiencing.  It was discovered that the blood that I was coughing up was from internal bleeding related to the liver damage from previous years.  So, last summer I was added to a liver transplant list.  Currently, I’m waiting for a compatible liver and going through transplant counselling.  Regardless of the outcome, I’m thankful to my friends and family that have encouraged me throughout all my difficulties.  

Tell me about your family.
I have two children, Matthew (born in 1989) and Laura (born in 1991).  Both graduated from Northland Christian High School. Matthew loves sports. He went to A&M and received both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Sports Management.  Matthew is currently a residential realtor along with his wife.  They have done well in the six years they have been selling real estate.  His wife is typically the top realtor in her office of over 100 realtors.  Additionally, Matthew works weekends for the NFL in video.  He’s worked the Super Boal and several games in Mexico City. 

Laura is a stay-at-home mom and has three children.  My grandchildren are six, four and one. She was the class clown of her high school.  She was voted Homecoming Queen and as I escorted her across the field the announcer announced that she intended to attend Harvard in the fall following graduation from high school.  Instead of Harvard she ended up at Blinn Community College.  In another prank, she and several of her friends made a video of her acting crazy and sent it with an application to get on “The Bachelor”.   She turned them down for a final interview, but the Bachelor selection committee continued to call her and encouraged her to continue the process.  She finally convinced them that she wasn’t coming and that she had only applied because of a dare.  In addition to being voted Homecoming queen, she was Miss NCHS, a diamond darling for the A&M baseball team and was all-state in softball.  Did I mention, she was tardy to first period 63 times her junior year and she swears to this day that the tardies were not her fault and that somehow it was the teacher’s fault.  Really???

What’s going on in your life now?
Having experienced poor health over the past five years has been a challenge for me. I do still work, as available or as needed.  We have a small staff (ten employees) that does most of the heavy lifting, so I stay out of their way, and I arrive at work mid-morning.  

I’m not able to do any long term or out of the country travelling because of my health, but we do travel to several properties we have acquired over the past several years.  We have places in Orlando, Galveston, Lake Conroe, New Braunfels, Santa Fe New Mexico and Las Vegas.  There is so much to see and do in Las Vegas, (concerts, Grand Canyon, restaurants and now professional sports).  My son and my wife probably go to Vegas more than they go to HEB for concerts and shows. 

For fun, I look for the next opportunity that will keep what little mind I have left stimulated.  

Are there any lessons you've learned along the way?
Build your own dreams, or someone will hire you to build theirs.  

Finally, is there anything else you'd like to add or share about your life?

From what others have shared, my life hasn’t been nearly as exciting, however, I feel very blessed and probably wouldn’t change much of anything.  Professionally, I have been rewarded with more resources beyond what I deserve or could ever have imagined.  Socially, I have many close friends from many of the activities that I have been part of (coaching youth sports, football officiating and the relationships that come with working with others).  I feel that I have received more blessings than I deserve.

Will you make the 50th Reunion on April 12, 2025? 

I plan to attend the 50^th reunion in April. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone and thanks to those that went to all the trouble of bringing everyone together.

Colleen Dorney (Klingseisen)

SPOTLIGHT STINGAREE:  WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

She was tall, friendly and our class Salutatorian.  Somehow she kept up her grades and was still involved in many activities: Who’s Who, Student Council, Victoriadores, Red Masquers, FTA, NHS, German Club and more.  Her sophomore year she was recognized for the Optimist Leadership Award and her senior year she was awarded the Good Citizen Optimist Award.  Ever popular, Mary Jane was voted a Class Favorite in both our junior and senior years. She was special to us all.  But whatever happened to Mary Jane?  Many of us lost track of her until recently.  It’s great to hear how she’s doing.  Enjoy this episode of Where are They Now?

MARY JANE QUITTA KESSINGER

I have not kept in contact much with childhood and high school friends.  No real explanation other than life and career took me away from those days in Texas. I’ve been hesitant to write this, but Colleen is very persuasive….

When did your Victoria life begin?

I was born in Hallettsville, TX, just 45 miles from Victoria.  We moved to Victoria when I was in the first grade where I attended Our Lady of Victory, then Smith Elementary School.  I grew up on Bon Aire surrounded by others my age.  Those were good times staying out in the neighborhood until dark in the summer with friends….Kathy Montgomery, Paul and Paula Rouse, Carolyn Buttram, Mark Keag, Bonnie Swain and others.  Carol Mueller and Martha Goodwin lived over on the next street.

We went to Crain Junior High which was within walking distance of our neighborhood.  Then off to Victoria High for high school.  When Howell Junior High opened before eighth grade, many friends went there for a year, but we were all reunited at VHS in the fall of 1971.

Share some memories from growing up in Victoria. 

Those junior high years bring back fond memories.  I was close friends with Kathy Montgomery and Becky Ready during that time.  When Bonnie Swain moved to town and lived down the street, we hit it off immediately.  My good friend Brooks Schramm mentioned my memorization project in Mr. Nichols’ Texas history class – a somewhat worthless exercise, but proved I had a good memory (and I still do today). 

A group of us “girls” carpooled in both junior high and high school, so I stayed good friends with Kathy Montgomery, Carolyn Buttram, and Carol Mueller.  Victoriadores kept us busy in high school, especially in summer practice and football season.

I loved high school!  I was involved in so many activities and took on leadership roles in many of them.  Student Council leadership led to district and state conferences.  Those were good formative years!

I’ve already highlighted friendships with the neighborhood crowd and Brooks Schramm.  I can’t forget to mention Linda Ullman, Joann Didner, Melisa Lockhart, Charla Borchers, Victoriadores Little Sister Tami Steen, Patrick Beam, Dennis Snead, and Cullen Duke. And Nancy North shared the story of how our rooming together at UT came about.

Who from VHS had an impact on your life?

Elizabeth Steen was my math teacher during my junior year.  She pushed me to apply for a special summer program at Southern Methodist University.  In many ways, that was a springboard to the realization there was life outside of Victoria.

I will always have fond memories of Tom Burchfield.  He was our Student Council sponsor and made sure we were involved in local, district and state activities.  When I worked in his office during my senior year, I saw another side of VHS as problem students came to the office for discipline. I recognized how naïve I was at the time, living in my “almost-perfect” little world.

Tell me about your life since VHS

After graduation from VHS, I attended The University of Texas and studied chemical engineering.  At that time, few women were in the engineering field. The decision to study chemical engineering fell into my lap as the UT ChE department was looking for women to bring into the program.  They offered me a scholarship, and I said, “Why not try it?”, but not really knowing what an engineer did.  BEST DECISION OF MY LIFE!  And I will forever be a LONGHORN!

During the summer after my freshman year of college, I worked at Union Carbide as an intern.  That job resulted from my father answering a question at Rotary about how I was doing.  The Union Carbide recruiter who heard I was studying ChE asked him if he thought I would like a summer job at the Seadrift Plant.  The message here is that being a woman in a traditionally male career didn’t pose problems for me; it created opportunities!

After graduation, I began full-time employment with Union Carbide at the Seadrift Plant, living in Victoria.  After a couple of assignments at the plant, I was offered a technical sales opportunity within the company.  The kicker was that I had to accept the position not knowing where (of 13 large cities in the U.S.) that I would be located.  So, my husband Paul Markette and I landed in the Los Angeles, CA area.  Talk about a change in lifestyle!  Paul and I ended our marriage soon after the move from Texas.  So, I was on my own, enjoying a dream career with a good company that I felt really cared for its employees. 

Fast forward with a move to Connecticut to Carbide’s headquarters.  My career led me to travel all over the US and Europe.  I spent time (other than my specific work assignment) as a spokesperson for Union Carbide around the country, talking often on radio and television about science and math education.  I was an active volunteer in the professional organization of chemical engineers called American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), serving on the national Board of AIChE for several years.  

My career and life were operating on all cylinders…..and then my father died after only six weeks of our learning he was ill.  My dad was my “rock”, always pushing me to be the best I could be.  And then he was gone.  After some serious soul searching, I gave up the career track and went to work for AIChE in New York City.  It was an interesting challenge transitioning from a volunteer role to staff of a professional association.  Certainly, it was a growth experience!  To this day, I use much of what I learned from that experience in New York.

In the meantime, my soulmate Malcolm Kessinger and I found each other!  Life with Mal has been a life well lived.  He brought me back to religion and church.  We have done many volunteer projects together.  He had the patience to help me learn to play golf.  

When my nephews (Rob and John) were faltering in a dysfunctional family environment, Mal was instrumental in our bringing them to live with us where they attended boarding school in Connecticut.  Rob later became a nurse and John thrived for 20 years in the Air Force.  Their younger sister, Sara, came to live with us later in Florida where she graduated from interior design school.  Mal and I are proud to have been surrogate parents for them.  

Lest you think it has been a perfect world, “NOT”!  We lost Mal’s younger son David and my niece Sara within two days of each other in August 2017.  Then, Mal’s older son Michael (a double transplant survivor) died from COVID in January 2022. Those losses have taken a toll on us and our extended family in these past years.

What’s going on in your life now?

Mal took early retirement when Union Carbide merged with Dow Chemical.  I retired too, at the age of 45!  We moved from Connecticut to Florida while we built a home in the mountains of North Carolina.  For more than 20 years, we have split our time between Bonita Springs, FL and Flat Rock, NC.  My time these days is spent volunteering on our neighborhood board and with an all-volunteer organization, Friends of The Salvation Army.  I play a little golf, Mahjong, Hand and Foot (cards), and enjoy a glass of wine with friends.

After a fall and hip injury in 2018, Mal began showing early signs of dementia.  Watching the gradual decline of your soulmate is a heartache beyond imagination.  We are so fortunate to be able to keep Mal home where we have had fabulous caregivers to assist.  Mal and I made a promise early on that we would care for the other at home as long as it was safe to do so.  

We still travel between our two homes for the season changes.  Here in Florida, he enjoys trips to the beach or the pool or greeting neighbors as he is pushed around the circle in his wheelchair.  In North Carolina, he loves sitting on the screen porch listening to the waterfall.  And the grandchildren come visit us there since they live nearby.  And he especially loves it when our long-haired dachshund, Trey, jumps into his lap!

He knows me and sometimes calls me by those heartfelt nicknames…MJ or simply J.  He’s about the only person who still sometimes calls me Mary Jane.  Most friends only know me as “Mary”.

Are there any lessons you've learned along the way?

So many.  I am not the “Mary Jane” I was growing up in Victoria, TX. Life is a maze to maneuver as best you can.  Who knows, the obstacle that comes your way might lead to one of the most important detours of your life. Accept it with open arms.

Finally, is there anything else you'd like to add or share about your life? 

I’ve gone on too much already….

Favorite Motto or words to live by: 

A couple of thoughts here…My father always instilled in me to “do the best you can at whatever you do”.  Doing a half-way job at anything will have a negative impact somewhere down the road.

My husband always told my nephews as they were studying or playing sports…”Run across the finish line”.  Don’t slow down until you’ve finished the task at hand.

Last, but most important…”Help those who are trying to help themselves”.  I try to live that in my volunteer activities and in life on a daily basis.

Will you make the 50th Reunion on April 12, 2025?

Unfortunately, I won’t attend the reunion in April.  I don’t leave Mal for more than a few hours at a time.  I am so fortunate to have found my soulmate in this life.  My life is here with him.  Don’t feel sorry for me…I am a lucky person today as I have been most of my life.

Nancy Susan North

Mary Jane, (you’re Mary Jane to me!) I’m so glad Colleen Dorney Klingseisen found you! I’ve wondered where you were and what you’ve been up to for all these years!   I tried to find you but was unsuccessful. And here you are! WOW! Your life story is so inspirational!  Thank you for sharing it!  I would love to see you! 💜

Colleen Dorney (Klingseisen)

SPOTLIGHT STINGAREE:  WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Nick was both a high achiever and popular amongst his peers.  He was also known to be a lover of fast cars.  You’ll see as you catch up with this special classmate that his love of success and fast cars has not diminished.

NICK BEDNORZ

I was the second of six boys born in Victoria, Texas. Growing up near Victoria High School, my brothers and I attended Smith Elementary with a few of our 1975 classmates. Middle school brought a move to Northgate, which meant daily bus rides to VHS—some of the most memorable adventures of my youth! Our bus route had a legendary lineup, including Kevin Mobley, Steve Goodman, Rhonda Keith, Kenny Matula, his sister Diane, and many others. And, of course, nothing beat the excuse of a late bus to skip class in the morning!

My closest high school friends were Frank Rab, Kenneth Brosch, and Jimmy Vacek. We had a tight-knit group, with Brooks Schramm, Kenneth Shutter, and Ray Midgett joining in as our go-to party crew. And then there was Jeff New, my fellow car fanatic—his 1970 455 Buick Riviera was one for the ages.

Speaking of cars, how could I forget Mike Gainer? He lived nearby in Northgate and had the infamous VW Orange Thing. Doors, windows, and roof off, cruising with its mighty 40-horsepower engine—it was an attention-grabber, for sure!

The High School Experience

Friday and Saturday nights meant cruising the strip, eventually ending up at Sun Valley Ranch. Late-night taco runs to JJ’s or Jack-in-the-Box were essential, with Pat Beam leading the charge with his notorious 2 AM antics. I’ll never forget the night Jimmy Vacek and Ray Midgett went airborne in a field near my house after missing a turn—classic VHS moments! And let’s not forget those epic parties out in the country. If you haven't watched Dazed and Confused lately, you should—it’s a dead ringer for our lives back then, soundtrack and all!

My Need for Speed

I had the ultimate ride: a white 1967 Ford GT Mustang with a red interior, four-speed transmission, dual exhaust, four-barrel carburetor, headers, white-letter tires, and chrome mags. Street racing was my passion, and let’s just say, I didn’t lose often. John Stockbauer Road at 2 AM was practically my second home!

Summers at Garner State Park

The annual summer trips to Garner State Park? Unmatched. Too much fun, too much trouble—always. The park rangers practically had us on speed dial, keeping tabs on our “activities,” usually involving late-night noise, alcohol, and, of course, girls. The entertainment we provided them was free of charge!

Life After VHS

Frank, Kenneth, Jimmy, and I roomed together at Texas A&M. Kenneth and I later shared an apartment in Houston while grinding away in Big 8 accounting firms, working toward our CPA certifications. The four of us still keep in touch, and Kenneth, Frank, and I make it to Lake Charles a couple of times a year. They’re blackjack pros, counting cards like seasoned sharks, while I sit back with my gin, trying to minimize my losses!

Frank, Jimmy, and Kenneth still have their tailgate spot on the A&M campus—unchanged since 1980. I don’t make it often, but occasionally, I tag along.

Career and Adventures

I had a natural gift for English and math, thanks to VHS teachers Mrs. Morrow and Mrs. Steen. They made complex subjects fun, a lesson that stuck with me throughout my career. A special shout-out to guidance counselor Frank Ryan, who recommended me for a job at Skytop Rig Company, a game-changer for me and many classmates. Working there in the middle of the 1979 Texas oil boom was a wild ride.

I married Denise Dubard right out of college, and we had two amazing kids early on. We raised them in Houston while I put in brutal hours at Deloitte. In 1992, I switched gears to work for a Fortune 500 manufacturing company, moving to Rosenberg, Texas. Six months as a shift supervisor on a shop floor gave me a deep appreciation for my dad’s lifetime of graveyard shifts!

In 1997, I took on a major challenge in Davenport, Iowa, helping turn around a failing aluminum mini mill. The people there were as genuine as they come, but after two freezing winters, this Texas boy was done! In 1998, I returned to Houston, taking on a key role at Royal Dutch, Shell’s North American energy trading business. Twice, I turned down offers from Enron—turns out, that was a lucky call!

A few years later, Shell US got “colonized” by the British, and my role was eliminated. That led me to London, where I became Shell’s Chief Risk, Regulatory, and Compliance Officer for global trading. My kids resisted the move, but I made them go—and after 20 years, they finally admit it was worth it. Unfortunately, 9/11 complicated our stay, but the personal tragedy? My long-awaited Scotland golf trip got canceled! It took 15 years to reschedule that one.

When Enron collapsed in 2001, I returned to Houston and started an energy trading consulting and restructuring firm. Twenty-three years later, I’m still at it, with two incredible partners who’ve been with me for over two decades. In 2012, we expanded to Equatorial Guinea, setting up a compound on an island in the Gulf of Guinea. Fully equipped with AC, satellite internet, and, most importantly, a stocked bar—it became a favorite spot for government officials. Naturally, those “visits” led to plenty of consulting work!

Passions & Life Now

Staying single for the last 17 years has been a challenge, but my passions have kept me occupied: cars, golf, intense workout routines, and tackling complex business problems. My love for golf is borderline obsessive—I have a full-blown simulator in my living room and play daily. Golf is the ultimate test of patience, biomechanics, and endurance, and like life, it teaches that the greatest pain leads to the most significant growth.

Speaking of cars, we still have my old lime gold 1967 GT Mustang fastback, along with a rare 1968 ½ Mustang 428 Cobra Jet red-on-red convertible, a 1973 Mustang convertible, and a 1977 short-bed pickup with a 454 motor. My brothers and son keep them running. And yes, my grandmother’s 1962 Chevy II Nova still waits in my uncle’s barn in Shroeder, Texas for its long-awaited restoration debut!

I’m incredibly fortunate—five healthy brothers, two fantastic kids, a great ex-wife, and lifelong friends. And yes, I still work—but since I love what I do, it hardly feels like work!

I’ll be at the 50th reunion—probably solo—but I wouldn’t miss it for anything. Can’t wait to see everyone!

Colleen Dorney (Klingseisen)

Spotlight Stingaree: Where Are They Now?
Colleen Dorney Klingseisen

I started “Spotlight Stingaree” because of the deaths of Jeanne Shields and Terry Sizer. There were others, too, whose obituaries made me pause. I hated just catching up on classmates after the fact. With the 50th reunion on the horizon, I thought it’d be fun for us all to check in on the living.

Most importantly, the success of this experience was due to the 21 classmates who good-naturedly agreed to put themselves out there. I am both grateful and in awe of many members in our Class of 1975.  A special thanks for the assistance of Ellen Swanson. She helped shape, contact, edit, and sometimes write the intro paragraphs.  Mostly she gave me moral support!

There are several other classmates I did not get to write about. If you’re wondering, “Why didn’t she interview _____?” it’s highly likely I reached out and they didn’t return my texts, letters, calls, or emails! This just goes to show the bravery of those who did.

As to why I am doing this final one… it’s partly to wrap up and thank those who participated. It’s also because many of the interviewees asked me, “Why aren’t you interviewing yourself?” As bait for getting agreement, I promised I would bare myself as well. Almost all those who participated said the experience of writing about themselves proved to be “harder than they imagined.” I concur. It’s almost like writing your own obituary while facing your teenage angst—a truly harrowing experience!

When did your Victoria life begin?

For the first six years of my life, I lived in Venezuela and Argentina. We would spend time in Victoria when my father, a Petroleum Engineer, was between assignments as that is where my maternal grandparents lived. I attended Our Lady of Victory for a brief while.

When my father and older brother died in a freak shore fishing accident in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, we moved to Victoria where I attended first and second grade at Stanly Elementary School. My mother then remarried, and we were off to Palo Alto, CA and Houston for a few years. After her second husband died in a car accident, we returned to Victoria, and I attended Crain and VHS.

There were other marriages as well—I’m sure some of you remember me as Colleen Tibiletti in junior high. There was a fourth marriage during high school. My mother’s fifth marriage came after I graduated from college, and she was happily married for the last 20 years of her life. Needless to say, I have stepsiblings spread across the state of Texas. I’m only close to one them who is from her last marriage.

Share a couple of fun memories from growing up in Victoria.

In junior high, my posse, where we lived near St. Joe, included Thomas Null, Kate Smith, Ben Livingston, Anna Wendt, Dawn Abbott, and Bet Welder. It was an awesome neighborhood and we stayed outside playing “kick the can” until the street lights came on. I remember one surprise party for Kate Smith where some played “spin the bottle” in my coat closet. I also remember one of the boys setting their shoes on fire in the backyard—was that you, Jerry Slaughter? Thomas Null wowed us all that summer with his slow-dancing skills. When Margaret Bishop showed up, every boy there went gaga. “Na na nana, na na nana, hey hey, goodbye” still rings in my ears when I think of those days. What a time to be alive!

My sophomore year at VHS, Jeff Grimsley had issues at home and needed a place to crash. My mother said he could stay, and he did—for the rest of high school. It was great to have a built-in older brother, and we created some awesome memories. I hadn’t spoken to him in 30 years, but he recently called and is coming to the 50th reunion!

One funny memory is from my junior year, sitting in Spanish class with a substitute teacher. We were all discussing the recent phenomenon of “streaking”. A sophomore, Bill Liesner, began bragging that he would streak for $20. I walked around the classroom and quickly collected that sum—even the substitute teacher contributed.  For reference, that’s about $130 in today’s time!

Bill laid out where he’d start and finish but said someone had to be waiting at the end of his run in a getaway car. Never believing he’d go through with this, I said I’d be there. During the next class break, Trisha North and I ran to the parking lot and drove my red, white, and blue Mustang to the designated pick-up spot.

Lo and behold, here came Bill (with his clothes piled on his head) bounding toward us. It was my first time seeing a ding-a-ling and quite traumatic! There was no hiding whose one-of-a-kind car was involved, as the Victoriadores were practicing and witnessed the spectacle.

The principal, Mr. Erskine, was so nice to me since I was his son’s Sunday School teacher. Still, he had to suspend me to placate the police, as my participation was considered a “gambling offense” and illegal in the state of Texas. I was kicked out of the National Honor Society and not allowed to attend the Junior Prom. My mother was thrilled that I did something so adventuresome and took me for lunch and a shopping spree in Corpus as a reward.

As an aside, Bill and I met up in Austin about seven years ago and had a good laugh at the memory!

Who were some of your VHS besties growing up?

My group of best girls went on a senior trip the summer of ’74: Ellen Swanson, Mechelle Rogers, Cindy Gallemore, Francie Strane, and Jeanne Shields. We spent a week at Garner State Park, floating on the Frio and dancing under the moonlight. We returned to Garner on a reunion trip a few years ago and had so much fun! No floating or dancing, but lots of eating, shopping, and reminiscing. Beth Alberts (who couldn’t make it the first time) joined us in place of Cindy, with whom we’ve lost touch. We all stay in contact regularly through a fun group text chain called “The Garner Girls.” I absolutely love these women.

I’m still very close with Margaret Crabtree. From kindling a friendship in sixth grade to solidifying it while working in Houston after college, we’ve been besties. Well, we are more like sisters at this point. Having had a strange and difficult family growing up, she is truly God’s blessing in my life! I am also still close to Anna Wendt and Guy Cleveland. Guy was my first date as a freshman (see photo below). They will all be at the 50th reunion!

There are others too who have my heart. Though we don’t talk often, they have left a fond impression; Thomas Null, Bobby McCan, Paula Crawford, Glen Wimberly, Cheryl Orsak, Jerry Slaughter, Larry Smith, Gigi McQuiggin, Greg Stanford, Sandy McCown, Stuart Quackenbush, Cindy Opella, Eddie Cook, Julie Sterne, Royal Putnam, Karla Bierman, Kevin Mobley, Mary Jo LaCaze, Mike McKinney, Sande Brink and Pat Beam. I’m sure I’m forgetting many. And of course, there are those that are gone but never forgotten; Stuart Green, Karen Cyphers, Mark Pittman, Terry Sizer, Jeanne Shields, and Harlan Oehlke.

Who from VHS had an impact on your life?

Harlan Oehlke and his father had a huge impact on my life. I was involved in Junior Achievement and Mr. Oehlke always treated me like I was special and worthy. It was so empowering. I’m sure it was his decision to tag me as “Miss Junior Achievement” in high school. I went to two national conferences at Indiana University which were so fun. And then I was invited back for two years during college to be a counselor at those summer events. I’m sure my interest in business and the stock market came about from being involved in JA!

Tell me about your life since VHS.

After earning a BA in Business from Texas Tech, I worked first for Proctor and Gamble and then for Amoco Production Company in the Houston area. This is where I met my husband, a Petroleum Engineer, who graduated from Texas A&M. We married in 1982 and had two daughters and then he was transferred overseas for work. We spent fourteen years living in London, Cairo, and Shanghai. 

Without a work permit, I threw myself into volunteer activities such as teaching Sunday school, serving as president of the PTA, leading Girl Scouts, and I even held a position on the school board.  There were also many fundraising activities from organizing home tours to chairing formal charity balls. There’s more but you get the drift. The thing I’m most proud of is my involvement in Al-Anon. Having grown up in an alcoholic family, it was lifesaving to settle into a spiritual program to bring serenity and a framework for living that I still follow to this day. Al-Anon really works hand in hand with my Christian beliefs.

Of course, I’m also proud of my girls. The baby went to SMU, Johns Hopkins, and Baylor College of Medicine and is a nurse anesthetist – mostly at Dell Children’s Hospital in Austin. The oldest went to Vanderbilt and UT for undergrad and SMU Law School and is the Employment Attorney for Panasonic - who makes batteries for Tesla in Reno.

What’s going on in your life now?

My husband and I have had some lucrative house flipping experiences. It seems we both enjoy overseeing the remodeling of homes and don’t mind moving. But I will say I’m not likely to leave my current house; it’s my favorite one of all. We also love to travel and have visited more than 55 countries. Additionally, I enjoy hiking, decorating, boating, cooking, reading, and photography (actually - photo manipulation). I used to enjoy snow skiing until I broke one thumb and dislocated the other in a fall and had to have surgery to put in a screw in 2023. The upside of that is my husband learned how to cook.

Of all my amazing travel adventures, my favorite experience occurred a few years ago when we went hiking in Patagonia. (I highly recommend this!) Afterwards, I wanted to go to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, where I lived as a child. It’s that island at the bottom tip of South America. My mom has since passed on and I don’t know much about my father’s death as she didn’t want to talk about it, and he was an orphan. I joined a Facebook page for the small town where we lived called Rio Grande. I posted, using Google Translator, that I was coming and that my father and brother had drowned there in 1963. The response was monumental. So many people remembered the incident and had known my father and mother. When I arrived, they greeted me with such generosity and warmth. They toured me around, showed me my house in the Tenneco Oil Camp, and the nursery school that was named in my seven-year-old brother’s memory. They told me stories and first-hand accounts of that horrible day. They took me to the spot where the accident occurred. It was such an emotional, surreal and powerful moment in my life. I’m so grateful for this full-circle experience. I felt God’s presence and peace.

In 2021 my husband retired, and we left Austin, Texas and moved to Reno, Nevada where there is no state income tax and very low property tax. The state primarily runs off gaming tax income. After my ‘gambling’ experience with the streaker – I’m obviously immune to that call! My oldest daughter lives here with her husband and my two fabulous grandchildren. I’m three miles away from them and seventeen miles away from the most beautiful place on earth – Lake Tahoe. Life is grand!

Are there any lessons you've learned along the way?

By the grace of God, I gave up drinking 31 years ago because of my family history with alcoholism. Best. Decision. Ever.

Favorite motto or words to live by:

"Let all that you do be done in love." — 1 Corinthians 16:14

"All you need is love." — The Beatles

“I am endlessly grateful for the loves in my life and the life God has allowed me to build. It’s been filled with adventure, but it’s the love that has mattered most.” — paraphrased from Candace Bergen.

Will you make the 50th reunion on April 12, 2025?

I will be there. I haven’t missed one reunion yet! We have such a great class and are very lucky to have stayed connected. See you soon!

I uploaded a 6-minute video on YouTube taken our freshman year in High School.  It was filmed by Beth Alberts’s cousin, Mike Alberts (VHS 73) during a party at her house.  There are several classmates in there including Beth, Jan (VHS 73) and Ann Alberts (VHS 70), Mechelle Rogers, Michael Pozzi (VHS 74), Mary Jo Lacaze, Mark Pittman, Julie Sterne, Paula Crawford, Colleen Dorney, Margaret Crabtree, Jeanne Shields, Mike Keith (VHS 71) and a very cute unknown dark-haired boy.  Enjoy if interested by clicking on this link:

https://youtu.be/4pQAIHS2JM0?si=C4oKE_P8UuPWs7q0

Kenneth Ray Brosch

Colleen, I was in the Spanish class and vividly remember the streaking incident.  Not sure how it could be classified as a "gambling offense".

Thanks for all of your work on the "Stingagee Spotlight" series.  It was very interesting and brought back a lot of memories. 

Bill Trevino

Hello Colleen!

As with so many other Stingaree Spotlights, your story is a joy to read.  So much has happened in your life (and it continues) - heartbreak, adjustments, joy, laughter, travel, and family. Keep on living your best life!  I hope y'all have a great time April 11th & 12th!

Hugs...Bill 

Marie May (Myers)

Coleen, you've done a wonderful job. I've really enjoyed reading the stories. Thanks 😊 

William Allen Kyle II

Really enjoyed reading everyone's life stories.  The Class of '75 produced some really outstanding people.  Thanks for putting all of this together Colleen and friends.  Looking forward to the reunion.

Bill

Nancy Susan North

Wow Colleen! You're story is so inspirational!  Thank you for sharing your story.   You've been through so much, and made the decision to come out on the other side on top of life. You are a woman of courage, life experience, wise decisions, and true love.  Thank you for all your hard work and effort in creating the "Stingaree Spotlight" Series. It's wonderful to read about our fellow classmates and how their lives are today.  Thank you for staying on me and giving me the courage to share my story. You are loved and appreciated by us!