Don Wimberley sent me the following question and I need your help since I haven't lived in Jacksonville since March 1985 and haven't seen the school probably since the day we graduated. We would love to hear from you.
Thanks,
Alice
Since I haven’t lived in Jacksonville for over 40 years, and haven’t seen our dear old Ribault High in nearly 45 years, I was wondering if its aged gracefully or does it show the ravages of time. What’s it like these days?
Don Wimberley (8/15/2011)
he very lovely Mary Lee Walker gives us her recollection of the dead horse story:
Hey, Alice! It’s me, Mary Lee Walker…..the Baptist Camp #85 is me and Sharon Lawless is #84. About the horse……it ended up in my yard because I didn’t want to date a certain gentleman so everybody was mad at me!!!??? BUT my sister and I knew—we watched them do it—but we didn’t say a word because my mother would have freaked out! It was all done in fun and the boys had a blast! ;)
Mary Lee Walker (5/7/2010
Our latest questions are: (1) Is it really Larry, Tom & Jerry, or could it be Jerry, Tom & Larry (left to right in the photo on the first page of the website)? (2) Can you tell which one is Jerry and which one is Larry? (3) Where are their last known whereabouts? (4) What is their connection to the lovely Mary Lee Walker?
Dear Alice,
I believe that it is Larry, Tom & Jerry in the photo, left to right. I can tell you that Tom was in Orlando several weeks ago, as my husband and I had lunch with him at Shula's Grill in Lake Mary. I have heard through the grapevine that Jerry Nelson moved back to Jacksonville from New Jersey. If anyone knows this for sure, please let us know. I am assuming that Larry is still in Louisiana. As far as Mary Lee Walker is concerned, Tom told us that the dead horse was deposited on the doorstep of Mary Lee Walker's home. I cannot believe they were able to accomplish this without some member of Mary Lee's family hearing something. Mary Lee, now you know the truth after all these years, but I bet you always suspected Tom.
Judy Baucom Hunter (4/6/2010)
Dear Judy,
I too recently had lunch with Tom here in Atlanta at Houston’s on Peachtree. Not sure I would have recognized Tom if he had not recognized me first. I forget that none of the guys have nearly as much hair as they once did and they all have the same color now—silver. Thank goodness the same thing has not happened to any of us girls. Over lunch, Tom told me how good life is treating him now and how wonderful his daughter and son are. I believe Tom may have the youngest children of anyone in our class—one about to graduate from high school and the other just starting college.
When Tom left he told me to give my old buddy Janet [Griffin Bradley] a call and tell her “Bruno was on his way.” Since Janet doesn’t have time for computers, I’ll tell you what she told me. Janet was at the hair salon [I still want to call it a beauty parlor] getting her hair done when Tom called and asked her to meet him for lunch. Janet told her stylist to do a really good job—she was meeting someone for lunch whom she hadn’t seen in 40 years and at least 30 pounds ago. Janet said they had a delightful lunch together. Janet now lives in Melbourne, Florida and Tom had been surfing that morning before meeting Janet for lunch. How many 60+ year old guys do you know who are still surfing? Way to go, Tom!
Alice Bartlett Mabry (4/7/2010)
P.S. to Mary Lee: I still maintain it was because they liked you that they decided to drop the dead horse off at your house. Boys are always mean to the girls they like. At least that was what my Moma always told me when Bill Ramsay tormented me. Love you, Bill.
Hi, Alice
I had dinner with Jerry Nelson and Eddie Dedmon a couple of weeks ago. . . so Jerry is here in Jax. Larry came down to see Jerry from Louisiana a couple of weeks ago. I have no idea about Tom (smile).
Love,
Jan Long (4/2/2010)
Yes, it's Larry, Tom and Jerry. Jerry is in Louisiana, Tom in Tennessee and Larry in New Jersey. I think the horse was dumped in Mary Lee's front yard.
By the way, Tom, where were you in Viet Nam?'
Sonny Cole (4/5/2010)
Well, Sonny Boy, you got the first part right—pictured from left to right are Larry, Tom and Jerry. However, Larry lives in Louisiana, Tom in Memphis, Indiana (right across the river from Louisville, Kentucky) and Jerry formerly in New Jersey but now in Jacksonville.
Alice Bartlett Mabry (4/7/2010)
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Now for a new question or topic for discussion. There was a recent article in the Florida Times-Union (12/9/09) concerning the integration of Ribault High
School in 1966. Judy Baucom Hunter and I talked about this and the only person we both remember was Thomas (a/k/a TC or Top Cat) Crumpton.
Judy said he played basketball and I said he played football. Please settle this argument for us and, in addition, tell us what you remember about that time.
Please click on Go Ask Alice above to respond.
Alice Bartlett Mabry (December 14, 2009)
Alice,
TC played both football and basketball, as I am looking at the yearbook right now. Longeno (I am sure I spelled that wrong) Parsons was in the band and
played trumpet. Madelyn Parker was in my Life Management Skills Class (I don’t remember what it was called back then). Those are the three
African American students that I knew that year.
Allen Sapp (December 15, 2009)
Hi, Alice
I remember Thomas playing football. The only thing I remember about him is he wasn’t allowed to graduate with our class.
Mary Cean Huot (December 15, 2009)
Note to Mary: TC was in the Class of 1969
Alice, both of you are correct. Top Cat was on both the football and basketball teams.
Merry Christmas,
John Saltford (December 17, 2009)
Alice, I think he was a football player.
Darlene Church Friend (December 17, 2009)
Alice,
Tommy was on the football team (#64), basketball team (#22) and was also on the track team. Does anyone know what school he came
from before attending Ribault? If I remember, about five came the same year.
Sonny Cole (December 20, 2009)
Alice,
I think there were eight students who initially took part in the integration of Ribault, all of them 10th graders except for one senior. One of the
10th graders was Pat Pearson, the daughter of Rutledge Pearson who was the statewide president of the NAACP at the time. Our senior year,
being the nerd that I am, I chose to take a 10th grade World History class instead of a study hall. Pat Pearson sat next to me. It took a while
for her to open up, and even then she was quite reserved. She told me that she was driven past three schools to get to Ribault, and she really
didn’t want to be there. Her father was killed in a questionable car crash in south Florida a few months later, and Pat never returned to Ribault.
The crash was labeled “accidental” by some and “suspicious” by others. The two other people I remember, besides TC, were Chris Johnson
and the senior whose name escapes me [Madelyn Parker according to Allen Sapp]. She played the maid in our senior class play (can you believe
how un-PC?), and she stayed overnight at the slumber party at my house after the play. I got to know Chris and TC better than the other black
students because Betty Aden and I tutored them in German. Chris was profiled in the Times Union piece, but little was said about TC.
Marigene Chappell O’Connor (December 28, 2009)
Alice,
What a great story (recollection) from Marigene. I, too, remember there was one girl in our senior class. If I recall correctly, the senior girl's first
name may have been Madeline. I remember an "M" name. I don't recall the last name. [Madelyn Parker] I also recall that she played the maid in
our senior class play. Marigene is right—to have played that part today would have been very politically incorrect. But, that was long before the
days of political correctness. Other than Madeline (?), the only other one I remember was TC (Top Cat), because everyone knew Top Cat. He was
very popular. Top Cat played sports and is in the photo of the basketball team on the front page of our website this month.
Judy Baucom Hunter (January 1, 2010)
Hi Alice,
Just waiting to see answers on this one as I seemed to be the only one for many years to remember a classmate named Madelyn Parker. All of the
people in the newspaper months ago were classmates whether they were in the ninth or eleventh grade. Madelyn was in our class and, as well as I remember, was Rutledge’s niece—making Pat and Madelyn cousins. I, too, remember the tragic story of Pat's father. Thanks, Marigene!
You folks are doing a great job on the task of taking over Frankie's place.
Mary Ann Meares Crumley (January 4, 2010)
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First for some unfinished business—back in May 2009 (see below) Sonny Cole asked us what were two “unique” things about the Homecoming Parade
our Freshman Year (1964). Freshman year? Hell, Sonny, I can’t even remember what I did yesterday.
Sonny furnished us the following answers:
(1) Because we were the Freshman and therefore the youngest [for the most part anyway], we would ride bikes, tricycles and scooters in the parade.
Because we could not keep up with the parade, they went off and left us crying beside the road. Whaaaa!
(2) Sonny’s mother arranged to borrow a convertible from Southside Ford so Betsy Hines, our lovely Freshman representative, could ride in it in the
parade. Well, Mrs. Cole got caught up in rush hour traffic from the Ford place and did not make it back to the school in time. Betsy was left behind
with the rest of us crying beside the road. Double Whaaaa!
Alice Bartlett Mabry (December 14, 2009)
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May 21, 2009
Sonny Cole and Hal Greenman, two of our faithful Go Ask Alice contributors, have sent us new questions. Thanks, Guys! What a great way to get
pumped for our upcoming 60th birthday party to be held on August 1 by stirring up old memories. If you know any of the answers, please click on
Go Ask Alice and send me your response. We can’t wait to hear from you.
Dear Alice,
Our entry in the Homecoming Parade our Freshman Year [1964] had two unique things about it. Does anyone remember what they were?
Thanks, Sonny Cole
Dear Alice,
I was driving home the other day and I saw the name of a fraternity that I did not recognize on the back of a car. Then I thought of the fraternity that some
of the guys started in high school. I was not a member. They were illegal as I recall.* What was the name of the fraternity, who were the members, how
long was it functional, how did it meet its demise and what happened?
Your pal still,
Hal
*Editor’s Note: And, of course, our Mr. Hal “Goody Two Shoes” Greenman would never have done anything that was illegal. Right!
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Memories of Mr. Williams
and
Senior Class Night
I didn’t have Mr. Williams for English. My contact with him was as our drama sponsor. And he was indeed “Extraordinaire.” I loved working with him, as did everyone else.
I still marvel at what he brought out in people. I loved all the behind-the-scenes action and he taught me so much about that.
As for Senior Class Night—I remember that, and Coke Barr’s “address” to us, quite well. I played Miss Sexton. I borrowed a dress from Toni Donaldson because she
wasn’t quite as tall as I was and so her dress was Sexton-short. I still recall some of my “lines.” (I put that in quotes because I didn’t say a thing that we hadn’t heard
her say in class.) She could not pronounce specific correctly, always said pacific. And the line that brought Barr’s wrath on me was “Why, Alan, what is that between
your legs?” Miss Sexton said this to Alan Jones during a test when she thought he was cheating off a piece of paper he was sitting on and peeking at by opening and
closing his legs.
I remember poor Mrs. Brackett standing there on the stage with Principal Barr on the Monday afterwards (the morning of Senior Skip Day—which he threatened to not
allow us to go on) and she looked so stricken—for lack of a better word. After all, we were her responsibility and “she had failed to keep us in line.” Not his exact words,
but I do recall something along those lines. I felt worse for her than I did for any of us. Especially since, for the most part, we hadn’t said or done a thing we hadn’t seen
or heard from the teachers. Okay, so maybe we exaggerated a bit, but some of it—like having whoever played Mrs. Hayes say “can you picture God chewing gum” –came
straight from what she said in class—on more than one occasion.
I wish I could help you with more info on Mr. Williams. I remember he lived at the beach. Toni and I drove out there one day to pick up something and I just recall thinking
that his place was so “cool.”
Frances Stewart Grow (March 31, 2009)
Although I did not have Mr. Williams for English, I secretly envied those who did. Those who were fortunate enough to have Mr. Williams as their English teacher, always
had the greatest stories about him. I knew back then (1967) that I was missing something really big by not knowing this cool teacher. Somewhere in my memory bank
I still have a vivid picture of a tanned Mr. Williams with his tie thrown over a shoulder. And, of course, there’s that tree he had in his classroom! I had hoped that Alice and
I would be able to locate Mr. Williams and convince him to come to our 60th Birthday Party. What a wonderful surprise that would have been for everyone. I’m so sorry that we will never have that opportunity. Thanks, Mr. Williams, for all the memories. I think it would be safe to say that if the Class of ‘67 had a category for “coolest teacher,” you would have won hands down.
Judy Baucom Hunter (April 13, 2009)
Hello Alice!
I wanted to add a few words in memory of Mr. Williams as I took his Senior English Lit class. Mr. Williams was so interesting and different from any teacher I have ever
had, even in college. Rather than study the traditional text books, Mr. Williams had us reading plays and we even put on a play in the school auditorium, which we worked
on for weeks. Looking back I think he wanted all of us to think outside the box and experience something much different from the standard English course. I don't think
anyone who ever attended his class or knew him will ever forget him—the weird dead tree and all!
Gary Coulliette (April 22, 2009)
Great teacher! I recall he always had a full classroom. I also remember him saying at the beginning of his class that “if we didn’t know grammar by now, we never would.”
Instead of regurgitating grammar, we actually had a fun English class that kept everyone’s interest. Yes, the tree-I remember that too, and his pink (I think it was pink)
sports car. He sure stood out from the rest of the faculty—too bad he is deceased. It would have been a wonderful experience to converse with him over a cup of coffee
as an adult. To me he appeared to be a person who loved adventure and was not afraid of what lay ahead.
Brigitte Lott Shipek (April 30, 2009)
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Ok, Guys and Gals
First, thanks to all of you who responded. We had a lot of fun with this. I simply could not believe how many
guessed WRONG! Out of the 12 responses we received, only 3 got it correct—congrats Mary Ann Meares,
Cathy Copps and Eddie Dedmon!
Let’s try this again. Looking at the photo, Jan is on the left (look at that precious little mouth) and Ann is on
the right (look at those eyes). Please scroll down to read everyone’s response.
Forever Classmates ~ Alice Bartlett Mabry (Dec. 1, 2008)
Ann on the left, Jan on the right.
Thanks, Alice, for all you do and send my regards to both Ann and Jan.
Your pal,
Hal Greeman (Nov. 18, 2008)
Me thinks Jan is on the right of the photo. From my vantage point (looking at the picture), I believe Jan is on the right.
Gary R. Coulliette (Nov. 18, 2008)
I think looking directly at the photo, that Jan is on the right and Ann is on the
left. It looks to me (if this is correct), that Ann is already taller than Jan.
Sharon Dewberry Lord (Nov. 18,2008)
Hi, Alice
The Long and Short of the Long Girls—It’s Ann and Jan. See Ann, always
serious, taller and looking straight ahead and Jan with the laughing and
sometimes mischievous eyes! I could be wrong. I know we had a great time
there in Highlands. I think Ann and Jan’s house was one baseball throw
away from Jack Weatherly’s and two throws from Sandy O’Steen’s.
Steve Waters (Nov. 19, 2008)
PS: Alice, Thank You
PPS: Jan!!! Mischievous ain’t that bad.
Hi!
Ann on the right and Jan on the left. Twins are wonderful! I only wish all of you
could experience them as grandchildren. We are having so much fun with our
girls and they make me think of Ann and Jan daily.
Mary Ann Meares Crumley (Nov. 19, 2008)
Ann and Jan
Keep smiling—we are all praying for you.
Renee Sallah Smith (Nov. 20, 2008)
My guess is Jan is on the left and Ann on the right. Two beautiful babies that turned into two beautiful ladies!!
Cathy Copps Hillis (Nov. 20, 2008)
I believe that Jan is on the left and Ann is on the right (Jan and Ann) in their
birthday picture. You would have thought that I would have been somewhat
good at identifying twins in high school because my best guy friends were
Jerry and Larry Nelson and my best female friend and the girl I was in love
with in that forever time was Jeanine Hinkson, the twin sister of Janice (Class of ’68).
My love, heart and prayers go out to Ann and Jan.
Eddie Dedmon (Nov. 20, 2008)
Alice,
Ann is on the left side of the picture; Jan is on the right! Thanks for the trip down
memory lane. I grew up with Ann and Jan and both are very special to me. My
prayers are with both of them and family at this time.
Love to All,
Linda Drury Drewery (Nov. 24, 2008)
Ann is on left and Jan on right. I figure I have a 50/50 chance on getting it right!
Two peas in a pod when born and still two peas in a pod when grown. That is a
living family with a loving spirit that others can admire. When I see Ann, I think
of Jan. When I see Jan, I think of Ann. Isn’t that what twins are all about?
Jerry Nelson (Nov. 24, 2008)
My guess is that Ann is the baby on the left. Wishing all of you, especially Ann, a
wonderful time with your families on Thanksgiving.
Lynda Kabrich Mihalchik (Nov. 26, 2008)
Hi, Alice
No doubt about it.
Ann & Jan
Jack Kelly (Nov. 26, 2008
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Comment received from Lynda Kabrich Mihalchik
10/2/08
Dear Alice,
I'm thrilled that Judy and Darlene are stepping in and rescuing our class. I've
missed the energy of our website. I just read the stories about Mr. Williams
from your article. It's funny. I thought about Mr. Williams last week for some
reason. I never had him for a teacher, but he was always surrounded by an
air of intrigue. I know he got Al Manning (my #1 HS boyfriend) through 12th
grade English.
Lynda
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Dear Alice,
Which girls took the cabinet doors off of the locked supply cabinet in the
Cosmetology Lab so they could do their hair while Mrs. Anderson was out
sick? Which girl stood guard?
Jeri Brooker Turner (7/14/08)
Dear Jeri,
Gosh, this almost sounds like a blonde joke—how many blondes does it take
to remove a cabinet door? The answer is four—Vicki Pearson, Una Jean Crosby,
Pat Crews and YOU, Jeri Brooker. As for the guard, Ethel Hall and I’m not teasing.
I would love to know how many of you became professional hair stylists? More
than that, how many of you are still blondes?
Blonde Until Death, Alice Bartlett Mabry (9/19/08)
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Dear Alice,
Let’s see if we can get something going. About midway through our last year, an
old dead tree showed up in Mr. Williams’ classroom. It ended up with all kinds of
things placed on it as decorations. Anyone have any information on this?
Thanks, Sonny Cole (6/22/08)
Dear Sonny,
In addition to finding out what the deal was with the tree, I would like to know
whatever happened to Mr. Williams—Mr. Doug Williams, English Teacher and
Drama Club Sponsor Extraordinaire. Remember Senior Class Night and all the
hullabaloo that followed because of all the controversial scenes? SNL didn’t
have anything on us. I know there are some great stories out there to be told
concerning that night and all those rehearsals if anyone is brave enough to tell
them. You know you can tell me anything.
Never a Gossip, Alice Bartlett Mabry (6/23/08)
Dear Alice,
I have no clue . . . .
Pat Gromer Weyand (6/23/08)
Dear Alice,
This is a mystery. I had Mr. Kent for English and we learned more about
diagramming sentences than about trees.
Hal Greenman (6/23/08)
Dear Alice
I have no idea. I did not have Mr. Williams as an English teacher. I was in
he MacBeth play with him as the director, but hardly ever went to his classroom.
David L. Byrd (6/23/08)
Dear Alice,
As far as Mr. Williams and the tree go, I don’t have a clue about either. I really
don’t remember the tree and haven’t heard from or about Mr. Williams since high
school. He was really weird. Probably Earl Vought would know something if any
classmate does—no insinuation about Earl meant. Well obviously I don’t know
anything about anything.
Eddie Dedmon (6/24/08)
Dear Alice,
I had thought of him less than a month ago. Too strange! I was recalling the play
he did where he had Senior Chorus signing classical German (?) music. Susan Crause
would probably remember exactly what we sang. Anyway, I was in the English class
and remember the tree. He would put different things on it . . . for whatever reason.
Isn’t there a picture of it in the annual maybe? I seem to remember a picture of it.
I don’t think it is a picture of mine, but I think I have a picture of him from senior
skip day at the lake. Will look.
The senior play was quite a moment. Guess we knew at the time that we were really
out on a limb. Ahead of our time, as they say. Could have heard a pin drop in assembly
the next morning. I remember Mr. Barr just staring at us for the longest time.
Take care, Ann Smith Nowlin (6/25/08)
Dear Alice,
The Tree in Mr. Williams’ class was called the Tree of Life and had many objects attached.
The Tree did cause a great deal of talk as a lot of the items were sexual or political in
nature. The whole idea for the Tree was for us, as students, to be able to make visual
comments about our lives and what concerned us as students and young adults. I have
tried to visualize the Tree and its contents. I remember that certain items [which cannot
be listed here] were taken down by someone higher in the school office.
As far as to where Mr. Williams went after Ribault, he went to Edinburgh, Scotland to study
for a higher degree. I know this because he asked ME if I would go to Scotland as his Batman
(man’s man). My father nixed that in a real hurry after meeting him. He was a bit strange.
Janice Logan, Class of 68 and my X#1, was also very aware of his differing interests. While
I was so dumb, I didn’t have a clue!!!. I did think that it would have been a great experience
but joined the Merchant Marines after we left Ribault.
I can say Mr. Williams was the only teacher that EVER got me to read a book all the way
through and he even talked me into joining the Drama Club (can you imagine that!!!). It
turned out I was a great murderer and messenger. LOL As I remember, Bob Pruitt was
MacBeth and had the lead along with a very hot brunette, whose name I cannot remember
but she was at the last reunion.
Steve Waters (6/25/08)
Hi There:
I didn’t have Doug Williams for English. I was blessed with “Mother Rachel” Hayes during
our Senior Year. I do recall a totally “off the wall” Thanksgiving play that I was in
(directed by D.W.). Might it be that there was a tree from the play that ended up in
Mr. Williams’ room? You might check issues of The Crest. I know Frank [Cribbs] had been
collecting them from various sources.
I do have a story to share about running into Mr. Williams after high school. My junior or
senior year in college, which was at Tennessee Tech in Cookeville, Tennessee, I had a friend
who was in the hospital in Nashville, about 70 miles away, so I went to visit him one weekend.
As I was stopped at a traffic light in downtown Nashville, I heard a voice from my left which said
“Hey, Mike.” I turned my head and saw Doug Williams. He motioned me to follow him and we
turned onto a side street. After a short conversation, he took me to lunch and then he took me to
show me an unoccupied bar. Here is where the memory gets fuzzy. I don’t remember if he had
bought the bar and was having it remodeled, or if it was a bar that he was redecorating for
someone else. In other words, he was either the bar owner or the bar decorator. I know this
doesn’t help much, but I thought it was pretty incredible that 600 miles from Jacksonville we
had pulled up beside each other at a traffic light in downtown Nashville, Tennessee.
Mike Register (7/4/08)
Hi Alice!
I was a part of that tree in Mr. Williams’ class. I have a picture somewhere. To those of us who
were blessed with having this man for Senior English, we can only tell you it was an experience.
I gained much confidence in my self that year. He knew I could sew and he encouraged me to
make the costumes for the production of MacBeth. . . no patterns! I had to create the costumes.
Kerry Page and I were in the same class and we can tell you the knowledge we gained from this
man was far more than book knowledge. I had no problems with Freshman English in college either.
I hope all is well for all my classmates. I will bore you with pictures of my twin kindergarten
granddaughters at our 60th birthday celebration. Thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Mary Ann Meares Crumley (8/28/08)
We did receive a reply from Bob Pruitt but, unfortunately, the only printable thing we could include
was that Bob played the part of MacBeth. Sorry, folks, I don’t want to be calling on Larry Simpson
to defend me in a slander suit.
Dear Alice,
This is the real story behind the old dead tree in Mr. Williams' classroom. Dwight [Loadholtes] and
I stopped by my house on Altamonte Ave. to grab some lunch. Out in front of the house was an old
dead tree my Dad had been pruning and trying to save that eventually died. We thought it would be
fun to load it up and take it to Mr. Williams as he was a collector of odd things. After this, different
classes began decorating it with numerous objects. I still have one of Mr. Williams' ties (a very
skinny green/black paisley) . I'm glad that so much discussion of this came up and of Mr. Williams.
Thanks,
Sonny Cole
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Hi! This is Nancy McLean Mortimer - Ribault Class of 1970. I was reading your column on the '67
website in reference to who lived on the same street as Alan Jones and is now famous.
You are correct in that it was Butch Trucks of the Allman Brothers. Younger sister Cathy and younger
brother Chris is also correct - they ALL went on to graduate from Englewood. BUT . . . Derek Trucks
(who also sometimes plays with the ABB) is not their Dad. Dad is Claude, Sr. (Butch's real name as
he is a JR. ) Derek is Chris' son.
They lived next door to me back in those days. Alan lived down the street - I was the one who would
babysit w/ his younger sisters.
I have seen both Cathy and Chris in recent days and they still live here in Jax.
Keep up the good work! (5/27/08)
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Dear Alice,
I was wondering if you could find out what the story is behind a certain picture in our senior yearbook.
For those of you who still have your yearbook, the picture in question is on page 8. It was taken through
a glass window which looked directly into Mr. Brown’s office. As if anyone could ever forget, Mr. Brown
was our Assistant Principal and the Dean of Boys.
The picture shows a group of very concerned-looking classmates; namely, Al Manning, Jack Weatherly,
Jerry Nelson, along with Waverly Ray from the Junior Class, in a conference with Mr. Brown. That
picture has long intrigued me and I have often wondered just what kind of “trouble” they were in.
Still Wondering After All These Years (3/17/08)
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Dear Still Wondering After All These Years,
“Right here, I say trouble right here in River City. Trouble with a capital ‘T’!”
I’ll say they were in Trouble. After some serious investigating, a very reliable
source named Al Manning
has given a first-hand account of the events that placed them in front of Mr. Brown’s desk that day.
Seems there was a track meet at the beach. As the four young lads were returning from the meet, they
stopped at that drive-in (A&W Root Beer we think) on the left-hand side of Beach Boulevard just before
the bridge. Any way . . . when the waitress came out to the car and asked the boys what they wanted
to eat, one very clever but extremely rude occupant replied “jump up on the hood and I’ll tell you what
I. . . .” Obviously, I cannot print the remainder of that sentence here but you get the gist.
The stunned but oh-so-sharp waitress noted the name of the high school these fine young athletes
attended as it was printed in huge blue letters across the front of their track jerseys--R I B A U L T.
She then called the school and reported the incident to Mr. Brown. Wonder how many licks they
each got for that one?
Sure, Jerry, you were just at the wrong place at the wrong time. I know, that’s your story and
you’re sticking to it.
Oh how I wish we could hear Jack’s side of the story. We miss you Jack Weatherly!
Alice Bartlett Mabry (4/3/08)
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Dear Alice,
Can you please tell me who all those hot guys were that used to work after school and weekends at
the Pic 'N Save on Soutel Drive. I nearly went broke shopping there everyday. I wonder if they are still
as hot as they used to be?
The Way We Were (3/22/08)
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Dear The Way We Were,
Honey, even Robert Redford got old. I bet you are the same lady who wanted to know who all those
cute patrol boys were, aren’t you? Watch out guys, this little lady is persistent and hungry.
Here are the names of the guys I could find that used to work at the Pic ‘N Steal, as my good friend
Sherryl Wilson always called it, or Pic ‘N Swipe, as others called it, on Soutel Drive: Tom “Beat a
Dead Horse” Brunofsky, Donnie “I trade in commodities” McLean, Rudy “The Merc” Murray,
Jerry “Easy Rider” Kiesow and Kent “meaner than a snake but oh so cute” Davis.
Breathless in Orlando, why don’t you invite them all to our 60th birthday party and then we can see
for ourselves how hot they still are. I’d still love to give that Kent Davis a piece of my mind for telling
me in 9th grade I looked like a bull frog and then suggesting that on our senior outing to Strickland’s
Landing something happened under the dock. Right, Kent Davis, only in your dreams.
Alice Bartlett Mabry (4/3/04)
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Dear Alice,
Do you remember what later-to-become-famous musician went to Ribault and would have been in the
Class of 65 but left when that person moved to the beach with his parents? He was a real good friend of
mine and lived on my street.
Hint: He had a younger brother and sister and his sister would have been in the Class of 67.
Alan Jones (3/24/08)
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Dear Alan “you’ve got to be kidding me” Jones,
I can just see everyone out there right now jumping up waving their hand frantically in the air shouting
ooh-ooh-ooooh just like Arnold Horshak always did when he knew the answer on Welcome Back, Kotter.
For the few of you who did not know the answer, it is Butch Trucks who has been and still is the drummer
with the Allman Brothers Band. His sister was in our class through her sophomore year and her name is
Cathy Trucks. The little brother is Chris Trucks and their dad is Derek Trucks, a famous blues guitar
prodigy who currently tours with Eric Clapton.
WOW!!!!!!!
Alice Bartlett Mabry (4/3/08)
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Dear Fellow Classmates:
I thought I would try another class participation question even though I never heard from a single one
of you on what your favorite slow dance song was and who was your favorite dance partner. I told you
mine and even told you who I would have loved to slow dance with and you still wouldn’t say anything.
Maybe you won’t find this next question quite so personal. I would like to ask all of you who went on
our senior trip to New York City to share with us your very favorite memory of that wonderful week.
I am not going to make the same mistake twice. I’ll save mine until after I hear from you. (1/18/08)
Forever Classmates ~ Alice (1/18/08)
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Dear Alice,
I’m not telling everything I know about this trip! My mantra is: “What happened in NY in 1967, stays in NY!”
Here’s what I will share with you:
The overnight train ride was unforgettable. Because the trip was open to other schools in Duval County,
there was a steady flow of students going from car to car. Once the lights were turned down that night, a
few of us girls thought it would be fun to pinch some unsuspecting guys on their butts as they walked
past our seats while we pretended to be sleeping. Yes, I am admitting right here and now, I
participated in this mindless, wretched behavior! You know what they say . . . “girls just wanna
have fun!”
By the way, the purpose of the trip was to be a cultural experience for its participants. As we took in
all the sights and sounds of New York City, we also took in concerts, a ballet, an opera, and a play,
which were held in places such as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. We visited museums, such as
the American Museum of Natural History, and we went to the United Nations. While in the Big Apple,
we had to negotiate hailing taxis, walking through the snow and slush, and finding something to eat
on our very limited budgets (at least mine was limited). Our week-long trip ended with a ferry ride to
the Statue of Liberty. The trip was jam packed with activities (probably intentionally designed that way
so that none of us could get into any “trouble”) and was an experience of a lifetime for a bunch of
“uncultured” high school students from Ribault High School.
One of the highlights of our trip was going to a wonderful off-Broadway play—Man of La Mancha. But
it was what we saw when the doors to the theatre opened after the play that I think was the true
highlight of the trip for each of us. Snow! Lots and lots of snow! Big, huge, soft flakes falling down
on us and around us! It was beautiful. I think for many, it was the first time they had ever seen or
experienced snow. I’m not sure any of us really came prepared for it. At least I know I didn’t. I
ruined more than one pair of high heels on that trip from the snow and ice.
Aaaah . . . and then there was Central Park! Alice, Marigene Chappell, Dianne Cook (at least I think
Dianne was there, although she tells me she doesn’t remember) and I took a little walk through
Central Park. With all the freshly fallen snow, we decided it would be fun to build a snowman.
As soon as we finished, we were approached by a man in a trench coat, asking us if we knew where
the War Memorial was. Of course, being from the South, we couldn’t be impolite and ignore the
fellow, so one of us responded by saying, “No, we don’t live here.” (Duh! Like you couldn’t tell!)
Well, I’m sure you know what happened next . . . he flashed us!!! We ran screaming, slipping and
sliding down the sidewalk to get away from the pervert! Now that I reflect back, I’m sure this was
payback for Alice and me pinching all those cute guys on the butt.
For all the girls reading this, do you remember Capezio shoes? A few of us girls wandered into
some wonderful little shoe store and there were Capezios of all styles and colors on sale! So many
shoes and so little time!
Oh, and let’s not forget our sweet, little Chaperone/Sponsor . . . Mrs. Cheney! I remember she paid a
visit to our room one night.
There was also a story about me and a Wing-Ding cup. If anyone remembers that one, feel free to
tell it!
I remember that before I left on my trip, my Mother wrote my name in Magic Marker across my
Villager labels! I was furious with her. Who in the world wanted to own a Villager sweater or skirt
with the label written all over it in Magic Marker! That almost ruined my entire trip. Fortunately,
she didn’t think of doing it to my Bass Weejuns.
Now, Alice . . . tell us the story about a girdle that went missing and give us a complete description
of the girdle, please!!!
Judy Baucom Hunter (1/23/08)
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Dear Alice,
What a great trip it was!!!!! My favorite memories of the trip were the snowstorm after seeing The
Man of La Mancha and going across the street from the hotel and having hot chocolate while in the
company of one Alice Bartlett. I had a killer crush going on and I still remember how I thought it was
best part of the week. I thought that Becky was alone when she ran into a flasher in Central Park.
Oh well, there you have it. Thanks for all the memories you are jogging with Go Ask Alice.
John Hasbrouck (1/23/08)
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Dear Alice,
My BEST recollection of that trip is something, as a gentleman, I cannot go into detail about. But it
had to do with a certain lady that was on the trip that had my attention at the time. I do remember
what happened to you and Judy in Central Park . . .hehe and I remember the name of the play that
we went to see as a class. Other than that, my memory is a little foggy.
Alan Jones (1/23/08)
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Dear Alice,
I couldn’t go, sniff, sniff, I was just a poor boy. WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! I still want to hear the
stories!
:)
Gary Coulliette (1/22/08)
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I know you all are anxious to hear the story about my girdle. All I can say is I wish my mother had
written my name in Magic Marker on all my labels. In the spring of 1967 pantyhose had not quiet
yet made the fashion scene—at least not in Jacksonville. Back in those days, most young ladies
wore panty girdles to hold up their stockings. For the trip, my mother had bought me the most lovely
snow white panty girdle with a beautiful pale pink and blue butterfly on it. One morning I woke to
discover it had disappeared. I was devastated and ripped the covers back on all my roommates’
beds thinking it had gotten lost in the covers. After endless searching, I finally came to the conclusion
that there was a hotel cleaning lady somewhere walking the streets of New York City in MY panty girdle.
As for the Wing-Ding cup Judy mentioned, let’s just say, without going into any detail, that it was a
substitute for one of those little white bags you see in the pouch on the back of the seat in front of you
on airplanes. I do want to give credit where credit is due—Susan Chambers did come to the aid of my
dear friend Judy when she became ill and I jumped ship.
My favorite memory of the trip was pinching all those cute guys on the butts. No, I’m kidding, of course.
The most vivid memory I have and, therefore, probably my favorite was also the afternoon we went to
see Man of La Mancha and it had started snowing when we left the theater. When they opened the
doors of the theater and we walked outside in the late afternoon that day and saw those big lacey
snowflakes falling down all around us, we were like 5 year olds running all around screaming and
laughing. If I am not mistaken, that story made the paper back home.
Alice Bartlett Mabry (1/29/08)
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OK. I hardly remember anything! I remember buying beer somewhere and then storing it outside
our hotel room window. I don’t remember who was my roommate. I remember Man of
La Mancha—still have the poster—and the snow.
Edwina Millican Richards (1/31/08)
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Dear Alice:
Judy did a great job of covering many of the highlights so I will just add a few of my memories.
I remember that on the train trip up we were an excited, rowdy group (for most of us it was our
first trip to New York!) and coming home we were exhausted and quiet and it seemed like a much
longer trip. I think our first night in the City we went to a Bach concert at Lincoln Center and our
seats were high up and it was hot and hard to stay awake.
I was in awe when we toured the Metropolitan Opera with its gold leaf ceilings and chandeliers
that are raised up and down. At the New York State Opera we were again seated high up in the
cheap seats and I’m not sure we really paid attention. Carnegie Hall was unimpressive on the
outside and everything expected on the inside. I remember the Grey Line Tour and all the sites
we saw including China Town. Does anyone remember if we went to the Empire State Building?
Was our other chaperone Mr. Owen? Regardless, they had their hands full with us!
I remember that before we left on the trip we were anxious to see snow and Mr. Williams, our
very worldly English teacher, said that it was very unlikely it would snow in mid-March in the City.
It seemed it was just for us! I remember that I loved Man of La Mancha and can clearly remember
the theater (Circle on the Square) and can picture the street in the Village outside the theater as
we piled out when the word spread of “snow!” I’m sure the New Yorkers in the audience thought
we were crazy, and I am surprised no one was trampled! We went between parked cars scooping
\up snow to throw at each other. Obviously, that was the most memorable event for all of us.
Judy, I think the shoe store was an actual Capezio store and we were awestruck by all the styles.
I can’t remember if anyone actually bought anything—do you? I did go into Lord & Taylor and
bought a winter scarf just to have something with a label on it from there.
I don’t remember much about where we ate. Did we try an automat? I think they gave us $5 a
day to cover the meals that we had on our own. It’s hard to believe, even 40 years ago, that $5
would pay for a couple of meals. I know a group of us (was it just girls?) went to the famous
Mama Leona’s Italian restaurant for dinner one night. I remember sitting in a coffee shop,
probably across from the hotel, with my friend Johnny [Lassiter], listening to his woes over
Sharon [Lawless]. He was such a talent—what a loss.
When the Central Park incident happened, I was in our hotel room (the lovely Great Northern)
with a sore throat. As I recall, they had gone to see some of the St. Patrick’s Day parade and
had stopped to play in the snow. I think they must have screamed all the way from the park
because they were still screaming as the elevator doors opened and they ran down the hall
to our room. It took them a minute to catch their breath and calm down enough to tell what
had happened. I’m glad I missed that outing, but the telling of it was hilarious!
All in all it was a great, memorable trip. Thanks, Alice, for taking the time to keep up with this
and for encouraging us to stretch our brains to recall some of these events.
Linda Sheffield Shepherd (1/31/08)
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Dear Alice (again),
Linda mentioned going to an automat. I have a vague recollection of that. If my memory
serves me correctly, I remember going there with you, Alice. Do you remember that? I only
remembered the name of the hotel, Great Northern, after you refreshed my memory.
Judy Baucom Hunter (2/1/08)
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Dear Alice:
I was reading the comments about the day the president was shot and it occurred to me what a
fearful time we went through. Do you remember the air raid or bomb practices when we'd hide
under our desks in elementary school (Lake Forest)? I was also thinking about riding to school
on the bus and wondering if we would be attacked during the Cuban Missile Crisis. I was really
scared during that time.
The JFK question was a great idea as so many of our classmates responded. I have to tell you it
cracks me up that you ladies still go on about the guys that were popular in high school. We
not-so-lucky guys used our prestige of being upper classmen to impress the younger girls. Hey,
if it hadn't been for my guitar, I'd have probably never had a date! ha! ha!
Happy New Year! God Bless and protect us all this year!
Gary (1/4/08)
Gary R. Coulliette
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Dear Gary:
Thank you for your comments and thoughts. I, along with many others I am sure, so vividly
remember the air raid drill practices and hiding under our desks. My family lived in Miami
during the Cuban Missile Crisis and we were scared to death being that close to Cuba. 9/11
brought back many of those fears. That morning we were all wondering which city would
be next.
On a much lighter note, I must respond to your comment regarding “us ladies still going on
about the guys that were popular in high school.” First of all, I must confess, I am guilty as
charged and proud of it. But, come on, nobody-without-your-guitar Gary, some things never
change. Whether you are willing to admit it or not, I know the same can be said about you
guys. If you can truthfully say that the names Lynda Kabrich, Judy Baucom, Betsy Hines,
Brenda Hannah, Susan Chambers, LaTrelle Lee, Sharon Lawless or Vanesa Perry,
to name a very few, don’t cause a stir among you guys, you’re lying, Pinocchio.
Happy New Year to the great Ribault Class of 67!
Forever Classmates ~ Alice Bartlett Mabry (1/8/08)
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Dear Alice:
Who kissed Lamar Robertson right on the lips in Mrs. Uzal's Spanish Class and had Mrs. Uzal
in her three inch spiked heels chasing after her down the hall screaming “No American Custom,
No American Custom” and sent Rocky Lord home crying?
Signed “I’ll Never Tell” (12/13/07)
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Dear I’ll Never Tell:
Don’t have to look far for that answer. I kissed Lamar Robertson right on the lips in Mrs. Uzal’s
Spanish Class. I have no idea to this day what possessed me to do that but I can tell you one
thing, it was a darn good kiss. Lamar, Lamar, wherever you are, thanks for the memories.
Rocky, even though I may have kissed Lamar Robertson, you were my first love. I also want
you to know that there were plenty of us envious at the 40th Reunion of the former
Miss Sharon Dewberry now Mrs. Rocky Lord. You looked “mahvelous”!
Alice “Kiss and Tell” Bartlett Mabry
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While watching an episode of Brothers and Sisters a couple of Sunday nights ago, I got a
great idea for another class question. On the show that night the family was trying to help
Kitty figure out a wedding song and they all began telling the song they lost their virginity to.
OK OK, a voice from above told me we won’t be going there, but how ‘bout if everyone
sends a reply telling what your favorite slow dance song was and who was your favorite partner.
I’ll start by saying mine was “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge. Since I cannot
remember that I ever slow danced with anyone, I will say who I would have loved to slow
dance with and that would have been either Walter Kegley or Chris Armstrong (and, of course, you,
Rocky).
Alice Bartlett Mabry (12/13/07)
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Hi All,
While putting up our tree this year I again came across the first ornament I made in 1st grade.
A whole pecan dipped in silver paint, sprinkled in glitter and nailed to a piece of red ribbon.
I wonder if any of you remember or still have the first one you ever made. What is it, do you
still have it and do your kids think it is the most primitive example of ancient elementary
innovation known to mankind? It might be fun to reminisce. Merry Christmas to all. I am so
proud to be part of this great Ribault Class of 1967!!!!!!
John Hasbrouck (12/17/07)
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I was in Mr. Kessler’s Math class and it was my fifth period. Coke Barr announced over the
intercom that the president had been shot. I was sitting in the front row and the girl to my
left said “ I hope he dies” A few minutes later Coke Barr came back over the intercom and
said that the president had died. I just remember there were a lot of teary eyed people in
class including myself. At the time there were a lot of people in the South that hated JFK
because of the racial issues that were happening at the time. It turns out later he was also
hated by the Mafia, Hoffa, the Cubans living in the USA and most of all he was against the
war in Vietnam. At the time I thought that our country was going to be really screwed up
and it was for some time to come.
George Diaz (12/4/07)
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Emmmm I guess I wasn’t thought of yet…
Cara T. Catlett (11/13/07)
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Wow! How could you forget this day. I was in Home Ec and the school was silent. That was a
great accomplishment as Home Ec was next to the cafeteria and you could hear a pin drop.
The entire week was followed by news coverage on the TV and you did not miss any of it.
The world was at a great loss.
Mary Ann Meares Crumley (11/13/07)
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Just as most classmates, I have the most vivid memory of this day. I was in Mr. Bowe’s
Algebra I Class. Harriet Mishoe was such a guiding hand to me in this class! She was
indeed a true math scholar. Harriet also loved to read interesting history stories about
all eras. She loved the Kennedy Family and all the politics of the time. As the announcement
was being made of the tragic death of President Kennedy, Harriet was actually asking
Mr. Bowe a question about an algebra problem. She screamed, turned around to face me,
and fainted next to her desk. Of course, some classmates were in shock as the rest of the world,
but others were afraid for Harriet. Mr. Bowe quietly rushed over to assist in giving Harriet water
as I fanned her with my algebra classwork paper! Harriet also had a slumber party planned that
night at her house. Her mother, Mrs. Mishoe, a science teacher at Ribault Junior High School,
let us have the birthday slumber party at their home. All of us girls stayed up all night mostly
thinking and talking about the horribly sad day. I can remember Harriet saying “Things will
never be the same. Our country will never be the same!” Everyone gathered around the morning
paper, which as I recall, came off the press much earlier than usual the next morning. I lost
contact with Harriet because she went to a private school somewhere in Jacksonville the next
school year. I would not be surprised to hear that she became a political science professor
somewhere.
Charlene Barrow Catlett (11/14/07)
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Well Hello “Go Ask Alice”:
It was a memory that I remember quite vividly as I asked Marsha Bracket at the 40th reunion. Do
you remember where you were?.......Answer: 9th grade civics class.......last period. We heard
the announcement and our classroom was right next to the auditorium and we were all herded
to the front entrance of the auditorium. Initially it was a “joke” as everyone said yes he had been
shot with his flu shot.......hehehe. A few moments later the stark realization of what had really
happened set in and a great sadness settled on us all.
I thought that the football game that was canceled that night was with Duncan Fletcher High
School.
Alan Jones (11/14/07)
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Dear Alice,
Yes, I remember. I was in my 9th Grade English class, at another school in Jacksonville. My
classroom was in the Annex of the main school building and did not have a PA System.
An Office Assistant came to our classroom door and called the teacher outside to relay the
tragic news. Our teacher returned to our classroom and told us that the President had been
shot. I remember watching all the events on television as they unfolded before our eyes. I can
still see in my mind, Walter Cronkite taking off his big, black glasses, a clock on the wall behind
him, stating precisely the time the President had died. Equally shocking was watching Jack Ruby
kill Lee Harvey Oswald on national television. It was a week that kept us sorrowfully glued to those
big black and white television sets we all had at the time. I doubt that any one of us will ever
forget where we were and what we were doing the day President Kennedy died.
Judy Baucom Hunter (11/14/07)
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I was in Michelle Maxon’s English class when the announcement came over the intercom. I
remember it as being such a shock to all of us. Some of the girls started crying as did our
teacher, Ms. Maxon. We all were hoping that he would live as they didn’t know or tell us
at that time that he was killed. That was a very sad and disturbing time for all of us. Some
of you have better memories than I as I don’t remember what happened after the
announcements (going home etc).
Gary R. Coulliette (11/15/07)
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On that morning I was walking in that DAMN SAND behind the girls locker room checking
out all of the WELL you know what I was looking at!!!! Anyway, that was a sad day for
America and the start of something that has not stopped to this day.
Climb and Maintain, 037 a/k/a Leo Smith (11/16/07)
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Hi Alice…..Regarding the President Kennedy assassination…..Diane Stalvey and I had Mr. Dobbs
for Civics…..and we were in shock to hear the announcement…...usually Mr. Dobbs would
have to make several attempts to quiet down our class...but that day…..just by looking at
Mr. Dobbs’ facial expression…..there was such a hush in the classroom…..and when over
the PA system Mr. Barr made his first announcement…..then the second “world changing”
announcement came something like “our President is dead…..John F. Kennedy has died”…..
it was so numbing…..then from thereon everything on television was covering the assassination
…..then Sunday morning when I came home from church…..the assassination of
Lee Harvey Oswald had taken place…..all you could hear…..“he has been shot…..
he has been shot…..Oswald has been shot”…..It seems like from that time on…..
our country has done a downward spiral…..Viet Nam War was full blown war…..
protestors were going crazy…..Woodstock…..“free-love”…..pot heads all over the
place….. morals …..standards …..self pride…..has slipped away…..nothing like
miniature short story…..
Ann Long Webb (11/16/07)
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I think I was sitting in that same civics class with Hal. What a sad time that was. I’m one of those
crazy people that believe we, as a country, would have taken a totally different direction had
he lived and been elected to a second term. Must be the liberal Democrat in me!
Mike Register (11/18/07)
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I was at my grandmother’s funeral in Hahira, Georgia. My dad had gone to get some ice and when
he came back he was just sitting in the car, and we went out to see why he was not coming
in and he told us the news which had just come in as a radio broadcast.
Barbara Russell Bailey (11/19/07)
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Hal, thanks again for proposing this question. I think the only other thing in our 58 years that
has collectively had as much impact on our lives was 9/11. I know we all pray that we never
have a moment like either one of these again. Like Charlene, I also was sitting in Mr. Bowe’s
9th grade Algebra I class. I had heard some talk in the halls before I went into class but thought
it was someone’s idea of a terrible joke. When the first announcement was made over the intercom,
I remember freezing in my seat and staring at that box on the wall. Less than half an hour later the
announcement came that the President was dead and we were to go home. My first thoughts were
how disappointed I was that there would be no football game that night. It didn’t take me long to
realize this was much, much worse than no football game. America stopped that weekend much
the way the World stopped after 9/11.
Alice Bartlett Mabry (11/19/07)
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I was in Georgia walking to the Coffee County HS library when word came out of the President’s
shooting. Everyone seemed puzzled that the shooting would occur and hoped it was a
media error. When I lived in Dallas later in life, my visit and walks around the shooting l
ocation (book depository) made the incident very real and one of belief. It is sad so much
evil prevails in our world!
Jerry Nelson (11/20/07)
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I was in Mr. Hall’s Electrical shop class. I remember that no one was saddened from the news.
Jim Mackie (11/23/07)
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On the day President Kennedy was assassinated, I was changing classes and had stopped on the
crosswalk in between the wings to talk to Charlie Jamison who was leaning on the rail (looking real
fine, I might add), when we heard the announcement over the PA system that the President had
been shot.
Sharon Dewberry Lord (11/27/07)
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Dear Classmates:
Hal Greenman recently e-mailed me the following message:
One of the most memorable moments of our lives occurred when we were in the 9th
grade—the
assassination of President Kennedy. It might be interesting to reflect on where each of us
was. I was taking a test in Civics class. We did not finish the test. Do you remember where
we played the football game the night he was shot? As November 22 approaches, it might
be a good time to reflect. Just a thought.
Hal
I think this is a wonderful idea! If you would like to respond, please click on Go Ask Alice
and send a brief note telling where you were when you heard the news that day, Friday,
November 22, 1963. Shortly after Thanksgiving, I will post your answers. If I remember
correctly, there were two messages over the intercom. The first one told us the President
had been shot, and shortly thereafter the second message told us he had died. We were
told to go to the buses which were waiting to take us home. There was no football game
that night.
Alice (11/13/07)
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Dear Alice:
I think I was an unwitting accomplice to an event that took place our Senior Year. There
is a photo of me holding a three-legged alligator posted on the website that was supposedly
caught on a fishing trip to Middleburg. Rumor has it that this is not the case and I would like
for you to get the real story and absolve me of any complicity and clear my good name.
Lynda Kabrich Mihalchik (11/05/07)
Dear Lynda:
This is another one of those incidents that I am going to assume the statute of limitations has
run. From what I can gather, Homecoming Queen, the only complicity you had was being at
the wrong place at the wrong time. Gary Coulliette and Sonny Cole have both proudly come
forward to tell their versions of the story. I might add that this is a bittersweet tale in that two
of the culprits were our beloved Frankie Cribbs and Dwight Loadholtes. Frankie knew I was
working on this question and offered me some leads but never mentioned he was involved.
And now, for the story. . .Gary tells me that while guarding the bonfire wood to keep our arch
enemy Paxon from setting it afire the night before homecoming, as they had done the year
before, several of our senior guys cooked up the idea to raid the Zoo. Sonny said it all started
as a semi-military maneuver as some of them were enlisting in the armed services. According
to Sonny, Frankie was the driver. The diversionary party, made up of Gary, Frank Albritton,
Dwight and Sonny, got the zoo keeper's attention by setting off firecrackers at the front gate.
As Gary tells it, this was a well-hatched scheme with time watches and all. The invasion group
waited until they heard the firecrackers go off and then landed by boat. “Just like Jean Ribault,”
Gary said. [Gary, I think you may have let your imagination run away with you here but, what the
heck, it sure makes for a good story.] Both Sonny and Gary agreed that it was Ricky “Crocodile Dundee”
Wheeler, with the help of Tim Delrose, who actually entered the alligator pen and grabbed the
three-legged alligator. Frankie picked up this band of thieves and headed back to the school. No
word where the little three-legged fellow spent the weekend but on Monday he appeared on the
Senior Walkway together with Lynda who just happened to be having her picture taken. The best
part of the story is the fellows all got a little nervous thinking the “extraction” may have been caught
on video so they decided to return the alligator to the zoo with the explanation they had found him
on a fishing trip to Middleburg. Gary remembers the Zoo did not want the poor little guy back. Hope
there are no PETA members out there or you guys may be in trouble.
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Correction to Alice’s answer regarding who drove convertibles our senior year? (11/05/07)
As everyone knows, Alice never likes to be wrong and she was informed by her most reliable secret
source, Janet “Deep Throat” Griffin [Bradley], that there was in fact another student who drove a
convertible our senior year. That would be LaTrelle Lee [LeFevre] who drove a 1966 or 1967
burgundy Mustang convertible. While we’re talking about LaTrelle, and we are, I want to say
that she must have been drinking from the Fountain of Youth in St. Augustine for the past 40 years.
OK, LaTrelle, what’s your secret—Nip/Tuck, those Swiss beauty products you sell or just good clean living?
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Dear Alice:
Does anyone remember which faculty member and student drove convertibles our senior year?
Alan Jones (9/25/07)
Well, hello Alan “only shopped at Rosemblum’s” Jones:
The faculty member who drove a convertible was the wonderfully dubious
Mr. Doug Williams. He, of course, drove a red Alfa Romeo convertible in keeping with his
rather flamboyant style to say the least. As for the student, it was none other than Linda Sheffield
(as in dairy rich) Shepherd who drove a blue Chevy Impala convertible. How did that girl drive a
convertible to school everyday and never have a hair out of place? Must have been the Aqua Net.
Material Man, I certainly can understand why YOU would be asking who drove the convertibles.
Why don’t you tell us about that brand new cabin cruiser you just bought?
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Dear Alice:
Does anyone know who the degenerate students were that placed the dead horse on MLW's yard?
Were the perps ever caught and are they still doing time for their heinous act?
Too Scared To Sign (9/19/07)
Whoa Nellie! Perhaps we should first ask our famous classmate lawyer, Larry D. Simpson, if the
statute of limitations has run on this one. Betting that it has, I will offer the following information
relating to this beastly act that has remained a closely guarded secret for over 40 years. The handsome
and extremely shy Tom B (as in Brunofsky) was headed to the school one evening for a Hi-Y
meeting when he happened upon a dead horse on the side of the road. He then rounded up Doug
"drove the truck" Trantham, the late, great Jack Weatherly and sweet Steve "say it isn't so" Davis III,
along with some others who will remain nameless ONLY because Tom B cannot remember who they
were, and headed back to pick up said dead horse and deliver it to the doorstep of the lovely
Miss Mary Lee Walker. You know what they say, Mary Lee, when boys are mean to you, it's cause
they really like you.
On a more proud note, Larry Simpson was the Chief Prosecutor in the second trial of Ted Bundy held
in Miami, Florida where Bundy was sentenced to death for the FSU Chi Omega Sorority slayings.
Ted Bundy was electrocuted on January 24, 1989. Congratulations, Larry! You make the Class of 67
proud.
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Dear Alice:
What ever happened to Janet Griffin and does she still love me like she used to?
Tom B (as in Brunofsky) (9/19/07)
Dear John, I mean Tom:
The beautiful, blue eyed Janet Griffin [Bradley] is living in Melbourne, Florida with her darling husband
of 37 years, Duane Bradley. Duane graduated from Jackson and was one of Jack Weatherly's
best friends.
As for loving you like she used to . . . don't know how to break this to you, Big Guy but, although she
did think you were cute as a button, it was your older brother Joe she really loved.
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Judy from Orlando writes, "Dear Alice, who are the cute boys in the Lake Forest School Boy Patrol
photo on the Skool Daze Page?" (8/29/07)
Well, Judy in Disney World, we've posted their names on the photo, but here they are again
just for you: Kenneth Campbell, John Hasbrouck, Barry McAllister, Hal Greenman, Chuck Pickering,
Benny Haskew, Johnny Lassiter, David Byrd, David Edwards, Tim Delrose, Billy Davenport and
Raymond Allen. Although not in the picture, but just as cute, were Larry Simpson and Larry Ganas.
The guy kneeling down with the skinny tie was the new principal Mr. Fountain and Mrs. Rose Hasbrouck
was the Patrol Mom. It's just like you to want to know who the cute boys are
