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CLHS90 News Archive
News - Early 2006
A Stork is Circling Web posted: March 11, 2006 at 10:59 p.m. ET Audrey (Hanak) Furby and her husband, James, are excited. Why? They have a new baby is on the way! The little one -- the couple's first child -- is due July 8, 2006. She said there is a family history of early babies, so their little one may just make an appearance before then. "I am thinking baby Furby will arrive in June," she said.
Congratulations to Audrey and James!
Prayer Request from Carrie (Bobo) Peters Web posted: March 4, 2006 at 12:26 p.m. ET Carrie (Bobo) Peters' little daughter, Caroline, has leukemia. She is undergoing treatment now. Carrie and Leo have asked for your prayers during this difficult time.
"Please know your prayers are what is getting us through each day," Carrie writes. "DON'T STOP!"
It will be a long road to recovery for their precious little one. They expect her treatments to last between 2 1/2 and 3 years.
"It will have its peaks and valleys," Carrie said, "But we have no doubt in our minds that Caroline WILL make it through. She is strong. She is in the best hospital with the best doctors. Texas Children's has the largest pediatric cancer center in the U.S. We have great hope and need your support and continued prayers."
Please keep Caroline, Carrie and Leo in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult, emotional time.
Yancy Featured in Newspaper Web posted: February 25, 2006 at 8:49 p.m. ET Kim (Jones) Yancy was recently featured in the Galveston Daily News. In the article, she discusses her new book: "The First Lady: Confessions of a Preacher's Wife." To find out more about the book and what Kim is doing now, read the article online. The Galveston Daily News: "She wrote the book on it"
Kim also encourages you to vote for her for an award she's in the running for: Best New Author. To vote, send an e-mail to nominations@cushcity.com by February 28.
News - 2005
Former Senior Principal Bob Neill Dies Web posted: December 3, 2005 at 2:09 p.m. ET
Bob Neill
Former Class of 1990 principal Robert T. Neill died December 1, 2005 from complications resulting from a fall on June 21, 2005. He was born in Pleasanton, Texas on September 16, 1937. He began his career in education in the San Marcos schools where he taught and coached for three years. The last thirty years of his career were spent with the Clear Creek Independent School District. He helped open Clear Lake High School in 1972, where he served as an assistant principal until his retirement in 1995.
Mr. Neill loved teenagers, and was loved and respected by them. He had a positive influence on hundreds of students. He had a special way of encouraging everyone to nurture the best in themselves. Upon his retirement he said, "I've always felt that I have gotten more out of my years at CLHS than I put in. I sincerely hope that all of you have a vocation someday that is as rewarding to you as CLHS has been to me."
Many former students, loving friends and family have provided a huge network of support through these five months of illness. Euripides said, "When a good man is hurt, all who would be called good suffer with him." Bob is survived by his wife, Janie, a son, James Robert Neill, a daughter, Nancy Lyn Clark, a step-daughter, Sondra Thomas, a step-son, Rick Whitehead and four granddaughters, Relene Neill, Jessica Thornton, Emily Whitehead and Sara Grace Whitehead and a sister, Dieliew Eddy.
The family is establishing the Bob Neill Scholarship Fund to provide a scholarship each year to a Clear Lake High School senior. Donations to this fund are requested in lieu of flowers.
Donations may be sent to Janie Neill,
15010 Seahorse
Houston, TX 77062
Mr. Neill's memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, December 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the Clear Lake High School auditorium. A reception will follow at the Nassau Bay Hilton. As one of our classmates wrote, "We cannot celebrate his life without lifting a glass to drink a toast to him. Bob would not approve of anything less." (Houston Chronicle obituary)
Kim (Jones) Yancy is Published Author Web posted: October 7, 2005 at 11:14 p.m. ET Updated: November 28, 2005 at 7:45 p.m. ET
Yancy Click to enlarge, 64k
Classmate Kim (Jones) Yancy recently had a book published. "The First Lady: Confessions of a Preacher's Wife," was written under the pen name "Mikasenoja" ("Kim spelled backwards with an a; and Jones spelled backwards with an a," she said). In it, she "leads the reader into the world of First Lady Jacqueline Stevens. A world full of church drama, conniving members, loose women, power-playing deacons, false accusations and fed-up preacher's kids."
Kim said, "We will be having a Gospel Musical Literary Debut of my book on Sunday, November 13 at 6 p.m., at our church (New Hope Bible Baptist Church, 3801 McKinney Extension in La Marque, Texas) and I will have special seating for my high school class, family and friends and I would love CLHS to come out."
"The First Lady: Confessions of a Preacher's Wife" is available now at bookstores, direct from the publisher and, of course, online book sellers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Check out Kim's website for more information about her book and where she'll be appearing on her book tour.
Congratulations Kim!
New Addition for Jason Goodrich and Wife Web posted: September 23, 2005 at 11:18 a.m. ET
The Goodriches Click to enlarge, 64k
Former classmate Jason Goodrich and his wife, Gretchen, were recently blessed with a beautiful baby boy. Collin Drew Goodrich was born on August 28, 2005 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. Both mother and son are doing well after a surprise birthday.
Jason, as you can see from the picture, is thrilled to be a dad.
Congratulations Jason and Gretchen!
Michelle (Tull) Bynum Ailing Web posted: September 17, 2005 at 3:45 a.m. ET
Michelle (Tull) and Brad Bynum
Former classmate Michelle (Tull) Bynum has been diagnosed with advanced breast cancer and will undergo the remaining diagnostic testing at MD Anderson next week (Tuesday and Wednesday). After testing, she and her doctors will map out a plan for chemo, surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), chemo again, and then radiation (possibly hormone therapy).
Michelle says: "We have a hell of a fight ahead of us, but I believe I can beat this. However, I believe in the power of prayer and am in hopes many of my CLHS buds could add Brad, my son, Reid, and I to their list. Reid just turned 14-months-old this week and he needs his mommy!"
Please keep Michelle and her family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Andrea (Jimenez) Islam Passes Away Web posted: August 17, 2005 at 10:23 p.m. ET
Andrea (Jimenez) Islam
Classmate Andrea Marie (Jimenez) Islam, 33, of Houston, passed away Monday, August 15, 2005 after a courageous battle with cancer.
She is survived by her husband of nine years, Kazi Aminul Islam; parents, Raul A. and Molly Benitez; paternal father, John H. Jimenez; paternal grandmothers, Josefa Rubio Gonzales and Ana F. Benitez; sisters, Theresa Marie Jimenez, Melissa Marie Jimenez Smithwick and husband Roger, Barbara Gucciardi and husband Antonio, Cristina Benitez; brother, Joseph Alexander Jimenez; parents-in-law, Farida and Quazi Sirajul Islam; sisters-in-law, Jessica Mireles and husband Anthony, Shareen Haque and husband Sanaul, Nazneen Islam; brother-in-law, Kazi Ariful Islam; nieces and nephews, Jackie, Alexandria, Sydney, Anthony, and Lilly Mireles, Adrian and Ethan Jimenez, Rebecca and Dylan Smithwick, Alessandro Gucciardi, Arvid and Arian Haque; and a numerous amount of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Visitation will be held Thursday, August 18, 2005 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Forest Park East Funeral Home. Services will be held Friday, August 19, 2005 at 12:30 p.m. in the Chapel of Forest Park East Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Forest Park East Cemetery. (Houston Chronicle obituary)
New Baby for Heather (Price) Guidry and Hubby Web posted: August 12, 2005 at 10:58 p.m. ET And baby makes three girls for former Falcon Heather (Price) Guidry and her husband, Greg. Little Audrey Mae Guidry was born by C-section ("my third and last one," Heather said) on May 6, 2005. The beautiful bundle weighed 7 lbs., 2 oz., and was 18 1/2 inches long.
Heather said Audrey's sisters, Meredith and Lyla, have welcomed her with open arms and love having a new baby sister around.
"We have all adjusted to being a family of five now," she said. "Even though Greg is very overwhelmed with the estrogen level in the house!"
Congratulations to Heather and Greg!
Principal Neill Injured Web posted: July 27, 2005 at 1:35 p.m. ET Former Class of 1990 principal Bob Neill had an accident in Lake Tahoe. He had a fall and hit the back of his neck. He sustained an injury to his spinal cord and had surgery. Two discs were removed and vertabrae were fused. He is stable now, but is still on a respirator at night. The family flew back home Monday (7/18/05). He is at Kinard Hospital and will be transferred to a Rehabilitation Hospital, possibly in Pasadena, as soon as he is off the respirator. He has regained 100 percent usage of one side, and 30 percent on the other side. He has not been able to talk because of a tracheotomy (and, later, the respirator).
Mr. Neill's wife, Janie, wants everyone to know. She also asks for your prayers for his speedy recovery. She knows cards may cheer Mr. Neill -- he's been depressed -- and wants to make his address available in case you wish to send him a "Get Well" card. Send cards and letters to:
Bob Neill
15010 Seahorse
Houston, TX 77062
Best wishes to Mr. Neill for a full recovery!
Double Pleasure for Melissa (Antee) Thompson Web posted: April 26, 2005 at 9:25 p.m. ET
The Thompsons
Classmate Melissa (Antee) Thompson and her husband, Christian, are preparing to double the size of their household. Toward the end of November, Melissa and Christian will welcome twins.
Her due date is November 23, but said with twins, they just might decide to come early! Melissa and her husband are very excited and said the news was a "dream come true."
Congratulations to Melissa and Christian!
Classmate Katie Grilli Dies Web posted: March 8, 2005 at 10:27 p.m. ET
Katie Grilli
Former CLHS '90 classmate Kathleen "Katie" Grilli passed away in Houston on November 9, 2004. She was born in Webster, Texas on August 10, 1972 to Robert and Dorothy Grilli.
She was preceded in death by her brother, William A. Grilli, and is survived by her parents; precious daughter, Kathryn E. Grilli; sister Amy Jelonek and her husband Fred; brothers James V. Grilli and Dr. Daniel P. Grilli and his wife, Dr. Angela Gonzalez and numerous nieces and nephews. Kathleen will be dearly missed by her family and many friends. We take comfort in knowing she has left this world to meet her Savior and is at peace. (See Houston Chronicle obituary)
Katie attended Clear Lake Elementary School, Clear Lake Intermediate and Clear Lake High. She was a treasured classmate who left Clear Lake High before graduation. For more classmate memorials and to leave a tribute to Katie, please visit our Memorial section.
News - 2004
Jennifer Newberry Celebrates Autumn Wedding Web posted: November 11, 2004 at 1:38 a.m.
She and her husband, John, celebrated their nuptials on November 6, 2004 in Fairfax, Virginia -- just outside of Washington, D.C.
The bride wore a strapless, A-line gown embellished with Swarovski crystals and ruby-red beads. Jennifer's hair was pulled back into a dramatic updo, and was adorned with tiny red roses and white stephanotis. A sparkling tiara and hair clasp, and red Australian crystal jewelry completed her look. She carried a bouquet of red roses, accented with stephanotis.
Jennifer and John said their vows at the posh Waterford at Fair Oaks. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres were served prior to a delicious dinner buffet. The big surprise of the evening came when an Elvis impersonator arrived to serenade the couple during their first dance (a gift from Jen to John -- a big fan of The King).
Several CLHS '90 classmates were in attendance, including Amity Stauffer, who caught the bride's bouquet and Jared Hayley, who snared Jen's garter.
Also in attendance were Jennifer Kerber, who helped Jen plan the wedding, and Geneen Pipher-Boyd, who served as one of the bridal attendants.
After a night of dancing and celebrating, Jennifer and John departed for a seven-day Caribbean cruise.
Congratulations to Jennifer and John!
Paging Dr. Boyd Web posted: August 24, 2004 at 3:27 a.m.
Andy Boyd
Former Falcon Andy Boyd recently completed his medical residency in Family, Community and Preventive Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Andy attended medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and got his undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas.
Andy just passed his Board exams and will be joining a practice in the Jones Creek area of Atlanta after a celebratory trip to Maui.
Congratulations to Andy on this wonderful achievement!
Kimberley (Jones) Yancy Has the Write Stuff Web posted: August 11, 2004 at 3:14 a.m.
Yancy
Classmate Kimberley (Jones) Yancy recently left corporate America to take on one of life's noblest professions: teaching! Yancy will be teaching Texas History to 7th graders at La Marque Middle School starting in the Fall of 2004.
In addition, Yancy's book and play of the same name, "The First Lady: Confessions of a Preacher's Wife" will be published in January 2005. The play will be performed in Galveston County on January 6, 2005 for Randall's Ministries Men & Women Conference 2005.
Yancy is no first-time author. Last year some of her works of literature were published in The Gospel Magazine. She is also the founder of the Galveston County African-American Think Tank, and co-founder of Yancy Ministries.
Congratulations to Kimberley on all of her achievements!
Carrie (Forsthoffer) Cheney and Hubby Welcome Baby Girl Web posted: July 22, 2004 at 5:38 a.m.
Madleyn Fay Cheney
Fellow Falcon Carrie (Forsthoffer) Cheney and her husband, John, recently welcomed a beautiful baby daughter into their lives.
Madleyn Fay Cheney was born on May 5, 2004 at 9:47 p.m. The little bundle of joy weighed in at 7 lbs. 12 oz. She was 20 inches long.
"We are overjoyed with our new addition," Carrie said. "And big sister Claire is thrilled to have a playmate." The Cheney family lives in College Station, Texas.
Congratulations Carrie and John!
Brian Williams Completes Medical Residency Web posted: July 6, 2004 at 4:04 a.m.
The Willams Family
Classmate Brian Williams, MD, recently completed a three-year residency in Family Medicine with the In His Image Family Medicine Residency program in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In his third year, Brian served as Chief Resident, so it was a particularly hectic time for him and his family. They are all looking forward to (what they hope) will be a more routine schedule.
Brian, his wife, Cyndee, and their 3-year-old son, Brennan, are now in the process of moving to Dexter, Missouri -- a small town in rural southeastern Missouri -- where Brian will join a family medicine practice.
On top of all of these wonderful things, Brian and Cyndee are expecting their second child January of 2005.
Congratulations Brian and his family!
Sue (Kwok) Annoura and Hubby Welcome New Baby Web posted: July 4, 2004 at 2:16 a.m.
Joe Christopher Annoura
Former Falcon Sue (Kwok) Annoura is a new mommy! After 10 years of marriage Sue and her Japanese husband, Koh, finally had their first baby.
Their beautiful bundle was born February 5, 2004 at 6:17 p.m. He weighed 3,140 grams (about 7 lbs) and measured 52 cm (about 21 inches).
The couple named their darling baby boy Joe Christopher. Sue said they selected the name because. "'Joe' is easy for the Japanese people to say as well!" (That's important because Sue and Koh live in Japan!)
Sue said the timing was "a godsend to the whole Annoura clan, as Koh lost his only sibling to a sudden stroke one year ago in April."
Sue, Koh, and baby Joe will be taking their first trip back to the Houston-Clear Lake area in mid-July. As Sue said, "Wow, what an incredible experience parenthood is!"
Congratulations Sue and Joe!
The Whittingtons
An Eventful Year For Matt Whittington Web posted: April 30, 2004 at 5:10 a.m.
Fellow Falcon Matt Whittington recently married and is looking forward to welcoming "Baby Whittington" in September of 2004. Matt is also the proud father of a nine year old daughter. Matt has been living in Austin for the past seven years and works as a software engineer.
Congratulations to Matt and his lovely bride!
Kristin (Warren) Weaver and Hubby Add Something New Web posted: March 11, 2004 at 3:59 a.m.
On February 19, 2004, Kristin (Warren) Weaver and her husband, Brian, welcomed a second little girl into their lives. Megan Taylor came into the world weighing 8 1/2 pounds and measuring 18 1/2 inches long.
Kristin says big sister Allison is thrilled with her new role as "big sister."
Congratulations Kristin and Brian!
Sky high proposal for Audrey Hanak Web posted: March 6, 2004 at 4:12 a.m.
Fellow Falcon Audrey Hanak and her longtime beau, James, recently got engaged. He took her to the upscale Museum-district nightclub, Sky Bar. There, amid incredible views of the city, he got down on one knee and presented the ring.
"I said 'yes and thank-you'," Audrey said. "No tears -- just hugs and kisses."
The pair, whose first date was at the Kemah Boardwalk, has been dating for nearly two years. They plan to marry November 20, 2004 at St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugar Land.
Audrey is currently an Occupational Therapist with Fort Bend ISD. Her fiance is a merchant marine who loves to cook, bake, do wood and metal work, and listen to jazz.
Congratulations to Audrey and James!
News - 2003
Vanessa (Matthews) Capps and Hubby Welcome Baby Boy Web posted: November 23, 2003 at 2:41 a.m.
Oh what a Labor Day for Vanessa (Matthews) and husband Michael Capps. Vanessa did, indeed, labor that day, but she said it was the "best labor day ever." At 2:14 p.m. on September 1, 2003 the couple welcomed their son, Zachary Christian Capps, into the world.
The 7 lb. 7 oz. cutie apparently couldn't wait to meet his mom and dad because he arrive three weeks early. Vanessa reports baby Zachary looks just like his daddy, with "beautiful blue
eyes and long lashes." She said her son is "The best thing I never knew I wanted." What a wonderful feeling that must be!
Congratulations to Vanessa and Mike!
Mitchell & M'Lissa Mays
Mitchell Mays Marries Web posted: October 13, 2003 at 8:09 p.m.
Fellow Falcon Mitchell Mays married M'Lissa McClure (No, not our CLHS90 classmate Melissa McClure -- but M'Lissa!).
Mitchell and M'Lissa were married on September 14, 2003. After their tropical honeymoon, the couple settled in at their home in Round Rock, Texas.
Congratulations to Mitchell and M'Lissa!
Yancy
Kimberley (Jones) Yancy: Scribe Extraordinaire Web posted: October 10, 2003 at 1:58 a.m.
Fellow CLHS90 classmate Kimberley (Jones) Yancy can add another accomplishment to her resume -- that of published author! Kimberley's works of literature were recently published in The Gospel Magazine based in Oakland, California.
Kimberley is the founder of Galveston County African-American Think Tank, and co-founder of Yancy Ministries.
Congratulations to Kimberley on her wonderful achievement!
Hallie holds Jackson
Bouncing Baby Boy for Julie (Koch) Lyons Web posted: September 19, 2003 at 9:33 p.m.
CLHS90 classmate Julie (Koch) Lyons and her husband, Brendan, recently welcomed an adorable new addition to their family. Jackson Victor Lyons came into the world on September 16, 2003 at 12:33 a.m. The little Lyons joins his big sister Hallie Ruth.
Though Hallie was hoping for a baby sister Julie said she is very happy to have her new brother home.
Congratulations to Julie and Brendan!
Jennifer Kerber Chats Up George Clooney Web posted: September 18, 2003 at 8:52 p.m.
Kerber gets up close with Clooney (Click to enlarge, 99k)
Oh that Jennifer Kerber! First she rubs elbows with the Republican elite at the Black Tie and Boots Ball on inauguration night, now she's up close and personal with everyone's favorite ER doc, George Clooney.
It seems Jennifer is now a Washington insider, attending all sorts of fantastic events, including the D.C. premiere of Clooney's new HBO series, K-Street.
Jen and her friend, Alexandra, arrived at the party in a posh Town Car and when they stepped on to the red carpet (you go girl!) Kerber said all the reporters who were assembled there turned to look at them.
"Don't worry," her friend jokingly assured the media. "We are nobody -- just lobbyists."
The event was held at The Palm restaurant in D.C. and Kerber reports, "As a former
event planner, I have to say, it was fabulously done -- completely to the 9's."
A political junkie's dream come true, Jennifer had the chance to mix and mingle with a who's-who of the U.S. political world, including Democratic strategist/CNN host James Carville, Republican consultant Mary Matlin, Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, former senator Fred Thompson, NBC political anchor Tim Russert and many others.
Jen dishes that Clooney is just as handsome in person, though a bit shorter than most might imagine him.
"Yes, I met George Clooney!" Kerber gushes. "Not just met, but touched him -- shook hands (he has a firm handshake, not sweaty; and he did the quick two-handed handshake) -- and spoke to him. He was very nice and very good looking."
"But ladies, brace yourself: He was only about 2 inches taller than I am. That puts him around 5' 7" or 5'8"! I could not believe he was short."
Neither can we, Jen -- another Hollywood illusion shattered. But way to meet those celebs!
Suzanne and Stacy Baker
Suzanne Lewis Sails Into a New Life Web posted: July 7, 2003 at 9:23 p.m.
Ahoy! Suzanne Lewis married Stacy Baker aboard the Spirit of Texas Paddlewheeler on June 7, 2003. When the ship reached port, a new family was born! Suzanne and her son five-year-old Brandon joined her hubby, Stacy, and his nine-year-old daughter Libby.
Stacy is a graduate of Humble High School. "He is the perfect husband!" Suzanne enthuses.
The couple's wedding was featured in the July edition of Mariner's Log Magazine.
Congratulations to Suzanne and Stacy!
Kristi and Dwayne Hyzak
Kristi Bishop weds in Houston Web posted: July 6, 2003 at 4:03 a.m.
On Saturday May 31, 2003, CLHS '90 grad Kristi Bishop married the love of her life, Dwayne Hyzak, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in downtown Houston. The bride wore a beautiful A-line, spaghetti-strap dress embellished with crystal and a dazzling tiara on her head. After the ceremony, the radiant bride and her new husband hosted a lavish reception at the Houston Center Club.
The happy couple jetted off to the Carribean island of Anguilla the following day.
Congratulations Kristi and Dwayne!
Doug Schwartz and his wife Julie
Doug Schwartz's Incredible Father's Day Gift Web posted: June 16, 2003 at 2:47 a.m.
CLHS '90 classmate Doug Schwartz got quite a Father's Day gift this year: His brand-new baby girl!
On Sunday, June 15, 2003 Doug and his wife Julie welcomed Gwendylan Anne Schwartz into their lives. (Doug said they'll call her Wendy or Wendy Anne).
Little Wendy Anne came into the world at 3:14 p.m., weighing 6 lbs. 12 oz. and measuring 19.75 inches. Doug reports both Mother and baby are doing wonderful and that he and Julie "couldn't be happier" with their beautiful baby girl. Now, that's going to be a difficult Father's Day gift to top!
Congratulations to Doug and Julie!
Greg Hagerman performs a tandem jump
Greg Hagerman Takes a Plunge -- A Big One! Web posted: June 12, 2003 at 9:56 p.m.
Daredevil classmate Greg Hagerman is well on his way to becoming a skydiving pro. Last Saturday, Hagerman performed his third skydive in the skies over Houston.
Hagerman, a skydiving enthusiast, has toyed with the idea of organizing a CLHS90 class skydive. Interested in taking your first plunge? Or just conquering your fear of skydiving? Post a message in our forum under the skydiving thread that Greg started.
Congrats to Greg -- we here at CLHS90.com admire his courage.
Amber and Rod Evans
Wedding Bells for Amber Pawlowski Web posted: June 3, 2003 at 3:53 p.m.
May was a busy month for CLHS '90 grad Amber Pawlowski who married her sweetheart Rod Evans on the 17th at Rancho Santa Fe Country Club in San Diego, California. The bride wore an elegant, floor-length chiffon gown encrusted with sequins and crystal. She carried a vibrant bouquet of red roses, calla lilies and other seasonal flowers.
When the evening was over, Rod whisked his bride away in a white Bentley. The couple spent two weeks on honeymoon in the Greek Isles.
Congratulations Amber and Rod!
Love Spanish Style Web posted: June 3, 2003 at 3:53 p.m.
Jose Ramos and his lovely fiancee will be married on June 14, 2003 in Girona, Spain.
Congratulations to the happy couple!
Ann (Kastetter) and Mike Davila Welcome Baby Girl Web posted: May 8, 2003 at 5:49 p.m.
On January 15, 2003, CLHS '90 grads Ann (Kastetter) and Mike Davila welcomed a baby girl into their family. The couple named their precious bundle of joy Elena Dorsey ("Lainey"). She joined the family just two days after big brother Scott's fifth birthday.
"She is such a happy, good-natured baby," Ann said. "And Scott is especially loving being a big brother now that she can smile and laugh at him!"
Congratulations Mike and Ann!
Bejat and Shawn's Big Ecuadorian Adventure Web posted: May 6, 2003 at 5:59 a.m.
Bejat (Owens) McCracken
Bejat (Owens) McCracken (CLHS '90) and her husband, Shawn (CLHS '89), have recently returned to the United States after nearly a year in Ecuador. While in South America, they researched amphibian distributions and populations in the Upper Basin of the Amazon, Ecuador. The duo works for TADPOLE, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the Amazon's amphibian species.
Shawn and Bejat founded the organization and have dedicated their lives to informing and educating the public about the amphibians of the Amazon -- urging others to help them protect and preserve these delicate creatures.
Bejat spent much of her time in Ecuador conveying messages through her art, which she painted in the field. The rest of her time she spent as a field assistant and photographer.
Bejat's hubby, Shawn McCracken (CLHS '89)
"We spent very little time sleeping -- life is just too short for that," she said. "So we worked in the field until 2 or 3 a.m. and then woke at 6 for breakfast and I headed out into the field to paint for the day."
"Where we worked is one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth," she said. "There are more species of frogs, trees and insects in one hectare than anywhere else on Earth and this much we know as of current studies. Future research may prove this area to be the most biologically diverse on Earth."
Bejat's artistic talents are now on display in Ecuador. After two months of constant painting she completed a mural on the deforestation of the Amazon and the diversity of the species in Yasuni National Park. Her mural is located in Quito, Ecuador at the South American Explorers Clubhouse.
Smokey Jungle Frog
Now that they are back stateside, Bejat and Shawn plan to process data, work on websites, and pursue funding in the hope of returning to South America for a year-long study at three different field sites in the Amazon.
Bejat and Shawn urge everyone to become involved in protecting this endangered area. "The Amazon is a magical place that needs our assistance," she said.
Feel the urge to do something? Why not...
Write a letter
Organize or participate in a protest
Make smart consumer choices
Donate to any organization that supports these important causes
Do what you can to make a difference, she urges, because "there is nothing in this world like seeing a Poison Dart Frog, a Harpy Eagle, a Puma or a Black Caimen in the Amazon."
Kevin and Stephanie (Lemon) Dodds Welcome Baby Boy Web posted: April 11, 2003 at 3:41 a.m.
On November 9, 2002 Kevin Dodds and his wife Stephanie (Lemon) Dodds, both of the Class of 1990, welcomed a son -- Evan Brandon -- into their family. Of their new arrival Stephanie said, "In the five months that he's been in this world, I've learned a lot about babies. For example: no matter how or why it happens, if the poop manages to escape the diaper, it will end up on your hand."
Congratulations to Kevin and Stephanie!
A Daughter for Jennifer (Green) Greenhall and Hubby Web posted: April 11, 2003 at 7:26 p.m.
CLHS 90 grad Jennifer (Green) Greenhall and her husband, Jordan, are the proud new parents of a beautiful baby girl. On August 29, 2002, Savannah Jordan Greenhall popped into their lives.
"She is such a joy!" enthuses Jennifer. "At seven months, she's crawling everywhere, chewing on everything with her two teeth and generally having a good time!"
Congratulations to Jennifer and Jordan!
Faith Allison Beikman
New Baby for Sara (Schuler) Beikman and Hubby Web posted: March 26, 2003 at 4:02 a.m.
Classmate Sara (Schuler) Beikman and her husband, Douglas, recently welcomed a beautiful baby girl to their family. Faith Allison Beikman was born on March 20 at 12:49 p.m. She weighed 7 pounds, 3.25 ounces and measured 19 1/2 inches.
Faith joins big sister Grace Elizabeth (b. 1999). Congratulations Sara and Douglas!
Happy New Year and More... Web posted: January 3, 2003 at 3:56 p.m.
Happy New Year! As we usher in a new year, I happily launch CLHS90 -- Mach II (as the visionary men of Spinal Tap might say).
The new site is a bit more automated, so I hope to be able to make updates more quickly. I've also launched a brand-new message board, a memorial for deceased classmates, re-vamped scrapbooks, and other cool new features. I really hope you enjoy it.
If you have any questions or comments, you know what to do...(send me an e-mail!).
CLHS90 Loses a Dear Friend and Classmate Web posted: October 19, 2002
With a heavy heart, I pass along the news of the passing of one of our classmates. As many of you know, Joel Korkowski was a pilot in the United States Navy. He lost his life October 18, 2002 when the F-18 he was piloting collided with another during a training mission over the Pacific Ocean.
Memorial services were held for Joel the following Wednesday in both California and at his former church in Clear Lake. I have been asked to let you know that a memorial fund has been set up for his family. If you are interested in contributing, you may send a check or money order to the following address:
Joel Korkowski Memorial Fund
ICO The Stockmen's Bank
142 West D Street
Lemoore, California 93245
Anyone who knew Joel, knows he was a kind, generous and welcoming person. He will be greatly missed. Please pray for his wife and family during this terrible time.
Top: Williams, his wife and medical degree. Below: Boyd gets hooded at graduation.
Two CLHS90 Alums Begin Family Medicine Residencies Web posted: June 15, 2001
Two doctors are in the house! This past May, CLHS90 alums, Brian Williams and Andy Boyd graduated from medical school.
Williams attended the University of Arizona in Tucson on a Track and Field scholarship. Upon graduation, Williams enrolled at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. He, along with his wife, Cyndee, and son, Brennan, will be moving to Tulsa for his medical residency.
Boyd graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He worked as a genetics researcher at Baylor College of Medicine prior to enrolling at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. Boyd and his wife Geneen (also CLHS90) will move to Atlanta, where he will begin his residency at Emory University School of Medicine.
Congratulations to both on these wonderful achievements!
Dutch Treat: Shelley (Lowery) Hayes Moves to The Netherlands
Shelley (Lowery) Hayes
For the past two years, Shelley (Lowery) Hayes has been living abroad. Shelly, along with her husband Darren (CLHS '85) and children (Collin Paul, 4, and Saylor Brooke Alexandra, 3), have been enjoying life in Amsterdam.
"It has been quite an adventure," she said. "Especially with two toddlers! It is not surviving the outback on national television but it has been the experience of my lifetime! I have traveled to Egypt, Scotland, Greece, Italy, Germany, Belgium and The French Riviera. I have a website that shows off our beautiful children and stories and pictures about our travels."
CLHS90 Grad Rahim Oberholtzer Scores Huge Win on Gameshow
Rahim Oberholtzer, right, with Maury Povich
Have you heard? The Class of 1990 has a millionaire in its midst! That's right, fellow Falcon Rahim Oberholtzer won a whopping $1,120,000 on the gameshow "Twenty One," hosted by Maury Povich. Rahim is one of just two "Twenty One" contestants to win a million dollars. Perhaps even more amazing than his big win is the fact that he claimed the title of "biggest money winner" in television game show history.
Rahim, a Havard Law School graduate, says he'll use his winnings to help pay off student loans and family medical bills. He said he might start a scholarship at one of his two alma maters: Harvard Law School or the University of Texas.
Congratulations Rahim!
Got Big News? Share it With the Class!
You may not have won a million dollars, but you probably have something just as exciting to share. New job? New baby? Got married? Working on the next Hollywood blockbuster? Traveling to, or living in, an exotic locale? We want to know! Fill out our super quick news form and we'll get it posted. If you'd prefer, you can send your news via e-mail to Geneen, our site's webmaster. Please allow at least 48 hours for your news to be posted.
