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7901 Bailey Cove Road
Huntsville, AL 35802
Phone:256.881.1075
Fax: 256.881.1054
Directors:
Bill Connell
Theo Vernon
Website maintained by
Rex Simmons
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Grissom Band Alumni Association
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Name: Joe Gaddis
Email: joegaddis@yahoo.com
Years in Band: 1990-1994
Instrument played: Trumpet
Personal Info: Well, I went to Auburn for 4 years and had a blast
down there. Its amazing how many former Grissomites become friends when you had
no association prior to college. Anyway - did the band thing down there. That was
pretty neat hanging out with Robert James, Dunham, Jerrod, and Rob Kincaid. My favorite
times there were in the pep band going to all the tournaments and stuff. I graduated
in Electrical Engineering and with a commission in the Air Force. Now I'm in pilot
training at Columbus AFB in Columbus MS. I get to fly over Huntsville every now
and then. My webpage is at: http://members.tripod.com/joegaddis/
Memory: Memories . . . this web page really brings back the memories.
Yeah, we all miss Chuck Moore. That was a great freshmen year with him. I remember
our little fiasco's when the parents went out of town. Where the heck is Paige now?
SAEH lives on! Haven't heard from her in years. Thom the melodramatic wonder - until
senior year. The marching days were great. Does the band still sneeze after coming
to attention? the marine - Brian - who was looking for a few good men . . . Connell
marking off the concentric circle form with a string . . . moving cars out of the
parking lot . . . picking up pit gear with the huge dodge ram truck and hitting
guard members . . . breathing bags . . . coordinate books with the annoying string
. . . Allen Smith bragging about his $50,000 camera gear that he HAD to lug around
to all the functions . . . Hilaritas with the automatic music stand raiser for the
trumpets - - - that broke when the camera was recording our soli . . . all of the
musicals - especially pajama game (we had a good angle, eh Robert?)
Name: Jeff Gallman
Email: jeff@polter.net
Years in Band: 1993-1997
Instrument played: Trumpet
Personal Info: Well, I went to Georgia Tech for 5 years and I was
in the marching band there all 5 years. While I was there, I switched from trumpet
to baritone BMTSF (Better Music Through Superior Firepower). Now, I live down in
Dothan, and I am a flight test engineer for the Army. So, I ride around in helicopters
and I get paid, not too bad.
Memory: Too many to list, with all of these memories from all the
trips. Hawaii, Austria, Nebraska, Orlando, Chicago, etc.
Name: Laura Gardner
Email: LJG3nyc@aol.com
Years in Band: 1980-1984
Instrument played: Flag Corps, 80-84/ Bassoon
Personal Info: I have been living in New York City for the past
12 years.I have a Master's Degree from the Mannes College of Music. My days are
spent teaching Orchestral Instruments to inner city kids full time in Brooklyn,
as well as ESL Music Appreciation- My nights are spent in Opera Pits, Broadway,
Off-Broadway and Orchestra Free-Lance work. I love my life. New York City is the
greatest city in the whole world, and the absolute greatest place for a musician!
I am getting married in November on Thanksgiving Day for the first (and last) time.
Memory: What a wonderful gift it is to be given the gift of Music.
I feel that my early years in the GHS Band laid the foundation that further shaped
my career in Music: Techniques, Discipline, Rehearsal, Critique, Rehearse more,
Performance.
I think of Mr. Sparks very often- and realize that the tirades weren't ego, it was
Tough Love. oh yeah- and the Hot Chocolate at the Football Stadium.
My fondest memory is of being the only person awake on the bus during a long trip
home one night- I remember staring out the window watching the yellow lines fly
by on the highway. I was listening to Journey on my Walkman. High School was really
hard for me- my family was breaking up, my friends and I were growing up- I just
remember feeling at that very moment that I was a part of an even bigger family.
I felt safe, surrounded, and supported.It dawned on me that I had a huge family
network in the Band. I somehow felt that everything was going to (eventually) be
okay. ;)
Name: Carol Nelson Garland
Email: Contact Carol via the alumni band web site
Years in Band: 1980-84
Instrument played: Oboe
Personal Info: I am married to a fellow engineer and work as a
safety representative for a chemical company. We have three children - two are in
high school and one is in second grade. Our son plays clarinet in the DB band. I
am still playing the oboe in my church's orchestra, which is a lot of fun.
Memory: I remember listening to the sound "scoop" off the mountains
during summer band, marching in the senior parking lot, Mr. Sparks smashing many
bullhorns and batons, feeling "one" with the music, taking fun trips with friends,
getting "spit baths" when Mr. Sparks yelled at the trumpets, and experiencing the
pure joy of playing awesome music in a truly great band
Name: Chip Garrett
Email: cbgarret@gateway.com
Years in Band: 1976-1980
Instrument played: Tenor Sax
Personal Info: Employee Assistance Counselor wife: Beverley Alex
(7) Clint (4) Tuscaloosa AL
Name: Tom Garrett
Email: tjjgarrett@aol.com
Years in Band: 1981-1985
Instrument played: Trumpet, Drum major
Personal Info: Graduated from Tennessee Tech with a bachelor's
in chemical engineering (1990). Married the former Jeannie Birks in 1994. We have
two boys (imagine a Garrett family with boys!). We are living in Wetumpka, AL (outside
Montgomery). I am an environmental engineer for the Alabama Department of Environmental
Management, Air Division. Jeannie stays home with the boys.
Memory: I remember not wanting to leave the stage after the 1984
Spring Concert. We had more music, but no more chops and the audience was probably
pretty tired of sitting there. Anyway, it was a great end to a fantastic year of
music!
Name: Gianna Bargetzi Gimenez
Email: GiannaBG@aol.com
Years in Band: 1981-1985
Instrument played: French Horn
Personal Info: Graduated Birmingham-Southern B.M. in voice 1989,
Married Michael Gimenez; 1 son, Adam, born 1990; now assistant music director at
Asbury United Methodist Church in Madison, AL. I sing with the Huntsville Opera
Theater also.
Memory: Excellence. GHS band taught me what it meant to work hard
and achieve greatness; and it made me hungry to do it again and again in every aspect
of my life. Some people never experience that, and I think that is sad. Thanks GHS
Band!
Name: Jennifer Glover
Email: sfts90001@zdnetmail.com
Years in Band: 1994-1998
Instrument played: Euphonium, Section leader
Personal Info: I was attending Jacksonville State University, I
marched with the Marching Southerners and had the best experience playing in the
Georgia Dome. I am now attending The University of North Alabama. My major is Criminal
Justice.
Memory: Ummmm well I had a lot of memories. This organization is
apart of the person I am today. A few fond memories I have would be: Of course Mr.
Connell ripping off his shirt and jumping on the hood of that car. My senior year
held the best memories for me, that year I found the best friends I could ever have
in my life. The long loud conversations in the mornings and Mr. Vernon saying "I
can hear you all the way in the office" and of course me replying "kiss it". The
day during band practice when i said shouted "da-- that is why we suck so bad" and
Mr. Vernon stepping off the podium and holding music in front of his face as he
laughed. The band trip kicked. And my last great memory would have to be when I
gave a speech at the band banquet and Aaron and Brian got up in front of everyone
and sang to me. This band was my family for 4 years. I wouldn't take anything back.
Name: Tony Goodloe
Email: kat512@juno.com
Years in Band: 78-81
Instrument played: Trumpet
Memory: "Goodloe, shut up or I'm gonna rip your arm off and beat
ya ta death with it!" - Dave Ward
Name: James H. Godsey
Email: jgodsey@hiwaay.net
Years in Band: 1972-1975
Instrument played: Trombone
Personal Info: I am married to a wonderful woman ( Kyla ) and have
2 kids, 12 yr son and an 8yr old daughter. I work for Lockheed Martin Information
Systems in Huntsville in the Information Systems Group ( phone PBX's, intranet,
computers, Web Site creation etc etc) My kids will one day attend GHS.
Memory: On a Band Trip to Atlanta Steve Hughes and I along with
some one else ( I can't remember who )bought a sack full of MD20/20 ( doesn't it
make your head hurt to think about Mad Dog ??!! ) which we immediately dropped and
broke when entering a bus to get back to the hotel. The Bus driver stopped at the
next corner and removed us from the bus. Of course we bought more Mad Dog, but it
was futile ... they raided our room that night and took it all away.
Name: William H Godsey
Email: whgodsey@possessors.org
Years in Band: 1976-1980
Instrument played: Percussion
Personal Info: William and his wife, Rhonda, have four children:
Rachael, Samantha, Nathan, and Lydia. William received his first drum set at age
6 and began formal drum lessons at age 10. He marched in the drum corps of Whitesburg
middle School and Grissom High School. His lifes ambition from age 8 was to be a
chemist. In his sophomore year of college, William changed his direction from chemistry
to theology due to a radical conversion to Christ at that time. He transferred from
university to Bible college earning his bachelor of Theology degree (BTh). Since
his graduation in 1990, William has operated a small business (ProWindow) to support
his family while preaching and ministering in music on a volunteer basis. William
has been a contemporary Christian worship drummer since 1984. He is currently playing
in the band "Fishnet." "Fishnet" is a contemporary Christian band that plays a combination
of high worship and slammin' alternative. William also teaches drum lessons.
Memory: My fondest memories of band are those of marching as a
part of a drum corp. As a musician, it is always fun and exciting to play trapset
with other musicians. However, as a percussionist, there is just something about
working with a unit of other drummers that is a unique thrill and honor. I treasure
the time spent marching in and out of stadiums and up the parade streets to cadence.
I also loved the drum solo part of the field shows and playing go cheers during
games. Unfortunately, during my years, our football team rarely had the ball so
our go cheers were limited. At least, we always got to play G- Beat when the Bags
Club came into the pep rallies. I still have my white cavalier's hat though I no
longer have the plume and finally parted with the rest of my uniform last year.
H
Name: Mitchell Hagood
Email: mhagood@bellsouth.net
Years in Band: 1987
Instrument played: Trombone
Personal Info: Currently living in B'ham ,AL. owner of a computer
company, and enrolled at UAB.
Memory: The band Trips, the Truck Crew, and turning the upstairs
storage room into a lounge.
Name: Michelle Kelley Hammett
Email: MKHammett@aol.com
Years in Band: 1975 - 1977
Instrument played: Clarinet
Name: Christa Caughron Handley
Email: handley@usaor.net
Years in Band: 1979-1982
Instrument played: French Horn
Personal Info: After working in radio in Huntsville for a few years,
I moved to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania in 1987, and continued in radio broadcasting
until 1994. I am currently working at a Christian Television station. In 1996, I
married Dennis Handley who is from this area. He is both a pastor and an A & P (small
aircraft) mechanic. We dated for 8 years, then eloped to Nashville!
Memory: There are many great memories. Being part of such a highly
talented group of people is truly unforgettable. I loved the consistent things like
always playing "The Way We Were" at the end of marching season (although I think
it was sabotaged my senior year if I remember correctly!), and playing "Sleigh Ride"
at Christmas, but I enjoyed the hard work that went into playing the tougher stuff,
too and of course the feeling of accomplishment that came with winning. I loved
being in the horn section, too, and really miss the other horn players.
Name: Roger Haney
Email: Ford_Folly@yahoo.com
Years in Band: 1977-1980
Instrument played: Trombone, Sousaphone
Personal Info: Happily Married to the former Ms. Karen A. Link
of Boise Idaho, one Son, Christopher James, 12 this year. Two pets, Folly the Silky
Terrier and Moose the Papillion. About to retire after 20 years in the USAF as a
Korean Linguist. Not sure what I'll be when I grow up - maybe teach Special Ed or
Middle School...
Memory: 2nd fondest: I'm pretty sure it was the first year that
we (Marching Band) did the goal line to goal line spread and high-step march at
Regionals. We played 'Let it be Me" I think. We finished second to a band made up
mostly of musicians in Spirit of Atlanta. Later Mr. Sparks and Mr. Ward played back
a tape of the judges comments *recorded as we played*. You heard them saying "Okay,
good so far, nice transition to OH MY GOODNESS YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING THIS IS
JUST UNBELIEVABLE...".
Fondest: the great people I met, and especially the passion that Mr. Ward and Mr.
Sparks had.
Name: John Harchanko
Email: johnh@aztechnology.com
Years in Band: 4
Instrument played: Trombone
Personal Info: Married Rachel Watts 8 years ago and now have two
kids (Neil - 4, Emma - 2). Graduated from UAH with a degree in Physics, now employed
at AZ Technology as head of the optics department.
Memory: Company front end zone to end zone while playing Jupiter
- The Mitch Haygood workout hour
- never being able to get more Cokes than Loyd Lowe during third quarter
- playing the parish at the end of Tiger Rag when Sparks said not to
- winning just about every competition we ever entered
- "Why are you playing so square?!!" - Mr. Rich in jazz band
Name: Beth Hardcastle (Gottlieb)
Email: percbeth@aol.com
Years in Band: 1976-1979
Instrument played: Percussion
Personal Info: Beth (former Hardcastle) Gottlieb lives in Orlando,
Fl and NYC, NY and is a professional musician playing a variety of venues. She also
is the head of the percussion department at Rollins College in Winter Park, FL.
Beth has done a lot of work for the Disney Company (movies & commercials) and currently
has a percussion duo with her husband, drummer, Danny Gottlieb. Beth has two sons,
age 11 and 12 who are also percussionists. Beth attributes her success in music
to the great teaching of Dave Ward and Jim Sparks and the wonderful Grissom Band
Program.
Memory: There are many fond memories with the GHS Band, especially
within the percussion section. One that stands out is when we brought in the live
chicken to rehearsal one day and Mr. Ward was conducting "Don Juan" and the chicken
(that was in the percussion cabinet) started screaming! I also have fond memories
of the Six Flags trip, the Jazz Band going to South America and all the other festivals.
Name: Jeff Harden
Email: jharden1349@charter.net
Years in Band: 1975-1979
Instrument played: Percussion
Personal Info: Married Mary Coley in March of 1988. Mary is a school
teacher for Jefferson County School System and over the years, we have worried over
some 450 4th graders. I am currently employed by Airborne Express in Birmingham
supervising drivers. Air freight has been my career for the last 15 years. Still
draw on the hard work, dedication, and commitment to team that was taught to us
by Dave Ward and JIm Sparks.
Memory: Band trips with John McClean, Mark Schaeffer. Ordering
pizza at 1 in the morning in Memphis. "Maria" in Mr. Ward West Side Story score.
Throwing batteries on Bob Clarks tympani. Good times at percussion camp in the summer
time. The thrill of winning Grissom's First marching contest at Oxford,Al.
Name: Laura Fay Hardy
Email: hardy@ro.com
Years in Band: 1976
Instrument played: Flute
Personal Info: My daughter is playing flute at Mt. Gap, and will
be going on to band at Grissom next year.
Name: Mike Hartman
Email: fumcsco@worldisp1.net
Years in Band: 1977-1979
Instrument played: Tuba
Name: David C. Harwell
Email: harwell@cyberonic.com
Years in Band: 1979-1983
Instrument played: French Horn
Personal Info: Living in New York City. Set Design for Production
Design Group, a Broadcast and environment company. Have left Opera and Theatre for
CNBC, MSNBC, National Geographic Channel etc. Just designed the set for the Hillary/Lazio
debate in Buffalo.
Memory: Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington '83. Got nailed in
the head during a tricky flag toss '82. Also got my horn stepped on in the sidelines
out in the back parking lot. Wrapped around her poor foot. Horn repair man read
me the riot act.
Name: Melissa Hastings
Email: melissanhastings@hotmail.com
Years in Band: 1993-1997
Instrument played: Flute and Color Guard
Personal Info: I graduated in May (2001) from Mississippi State
with a degree in Elementary Education. So naturally I'm a flight attendant with
Southwest Airlines. I'm based out of Baltimore, so look me up if you're in town
(and I know you).
Memory: Not specifically a memory that I have, but the friends
I have made through becoming a member of the Grissom Band are what I am most thankful
to the organization for giving me. I do have some fond memories, but the constitution
protects me from self-incrimination. I can't even narrow it down, but it was a blast
the entire time.
Name: Gaye Shockley / Haynes
Email: rhaynes@wjs.com
Years in Band: 1970-1974
Instrument played: Clarinet
Personal Info: Married to Robin Haynes; have 2 daughters, 15 &
10 (our older one attends Grissom); M. of Ed. in Early Childhood Ed. from Auburn.
Currently staying at home to care for family.
Name: Jessica Heaven
Email: jnheaven@hotmail.com
Years in Band: 1996-2000
Instrument played: French horn, drum major
Personal Info: Graduated from Vanderbilt University May 2004
Name: Helen Roan Heffington
Email: heffington@mindspring.com
Years in Band: 1971-1974
Instrument played: Flute
Personal Info: I've recently moved to Fort Myers, FL to accept
the position of Associate Pastor at First Presbyterian Church, quite a career change
from 15 years of practicing law in Atlanta. I have been married to my husband Scott,
also a lawyer, for five years.
Memory: Band trips, particularly to Six Flags over Georgia.
Name: Maureen O'Donnell-Hein
Email: moronh@mindspring.com
Years in Band: 1984-1987
Instrument played: Flute
Personal Info: I attended Florida State and ended up with a major
in Music Therapy. I've been working as a music therapist in Atlanta for six years
now and give occasional workshop presentations. I married Ron Hein, percussionist
and fellow FSU grad last year. I'm also currently pursuing my Master's in Professional
Counseling and Georgia State. Of course, I'm keeping up my playing as the principal
flutist with Orchestra Atlanta, a chamber orchestra located in the 'burbs.
Memory: Freezing my a** off walking to the Sear's Tower in December
(were we nuts?). Oh, by the way, how many times did we go to Orlando?
Name: Lisa Hildebrandt/ Hendrix
Years in Band: 1986-1987
Instrument played: Clarinet
Personal Info: I just got married last year to a wonderful man
whose name is Derrell Hendrix. He is a jeweler and we are moving up to Portland,
Oregon for him to attend Jewelry School. I graduated from University of Montevallo
in 1997 with a degree in Early Childhood/ Elementary Education and music minor.
I haven't played my clarinet much lately but I try to play in the church orchestra.
The problem is they always want me to sing so I don't get to play as often as like.
I wish I could attend the class reunion but we will be to far away. It is good to
hear how well the band is doing still. Such great memories from my time in band.
I am grateful.
Memory: My best friend Jeni Hill, and all the wonderful trips we
took. My fondest memory is when we went to competition in Tuscaloosa. We won and
we marched down the streets of Alabama proud as can be.
Name: Jennifer Herman
Email: jch@traveller.com
Years in Band: 3
Instrument played: Clarinet
Personal Info: I am currently designing and developing web pages
for Traveller Information Services, also I am currently pursuing a Electrical Engineering
degree at UAH. Also I have a wonderful five year old little boy.
Memory: Feeling sof Camaraderie, and Purpose....not to mention
the band trips!
Name: Lara Hettenhouse (Kuschel)
Email: lkuschel@smecs.info
Years in Band: 1984-1987
Instrument played: Flute
Personal Info: Graduated from Auburn in 1991 with a degree in French.
Immediately went to work for JVC, a Japanese company, where I have been ever since.
Married in 1998 and am the proud parent of four cats. Still have my flutes, but
haven't touched them since 1987. In fact, I believe I've forgotten how to read music
even though I still remember the fingerings and probably have a few songs burned
in my memory for life.
Memory: Mr. Sparks wadding up paper, throwing it into the band,
and pretending it was a grenade. LOTS of marching band practices in the hot sun.
Selling oranges, cookbooks, trinkets, or anything else they could think of. Chicago
in the WINTER. Finally getting a new band room. Tons of road trips. The competitions.
Winning! It was a fabulous run and I loved every second of it!
Name: Karen Hicks
Email: Carmencita158@comcast.net
Years in Band: 1989-1993
Instrument played: Clarinet / Flag Corps
Personal Info: Wow, I just logged onto this site and noticed that
my info is way out of date! It is now the end of October 2003, and I am living in
Nashville, TN, working in administration for music publishing. Would love to hear
from people (where was everybody at our reunion this past summer?? very poor band
representation, I must say).
Memory: So many wonderful memories, so little space. Above all,
there were the long bus trips. A few highlights were sleeping in the isles, budding
romances (oh, the drama), and singing myself hoarse (TABOO!). Also, I will never
forget the early summer mornings with Stan, breathing bags, BOB, 7th period wind
ensemble, and TENACITY!
Name: Mindy MaGill Hill
Email: hills_ms@yahoo.com
Years in Band: 1989 - 1991
Instrument played: Flute
Personal Info: Since graduating, I went to Livingston University
for one quarter on a music scholarship, but came home (combination of homesickness
and parent losing job). So, I enrolled in Calhoun Community College where I got
my associate degree in Business Adminstration while working at night at the local
restaurants making money to pay my way through school. In 1995 I moved to Oregon
with my parents. My parents said they would pay for me to finish school if I would
move out to the Pacific Northwest and a state I did not know much about. Well, I
did, and I must tell you I live in one of the most beautiful states I have ever
seen. Please come visit anytime so I can show you. Yes it does rain here nine months
of the year, but it keeps everything clean and green. I earned my Bachelor's degree
in Business Administration with an option in International Business and minor in
Spanish in 1998 from Oregon State University (GO Beavs!!!). This is where I met
my husband Scott.! After working a few temp jobs, I finally found my pefect job.
I work as an Accounts Payable Audit Clerk for Americold Logistics. I like this company
because I can wear jeans and shorts to work. I tell you a casual work environment
with great people, what more can I ask for. Well, the perfect man, and I found him.
His name is Scott Hill and I met him in college. We dated for fours years, and were
married on June 3rd, 2000. We live in the Portland Oregon area and will be moving
into our first house in Tigard, Oregon in May (so excited, can't wait). My husband
and I don't have any human kids, but we have two dogs that we like to call our kids.
They are Pembrooke Welsh Corgis (brother and sister, a year apart). There names
are Chase and Jasmine (Jazz for short), and are the highlight of our lives.
Memory: I remember summer band camp and standing outside marching
in the morning on some of the most humid days. I also remember the longest bus trip
to and from Virigina Beach. I was definitely honored to be a member of this band
that achieved so many honors, and I am grateful for all the wonderful times I had
and all the life lessons that I learned.
Name: Kristi Hinckley
Email: khinckley@mindspring.com
Years in Band: 1984-1988
Instrument played: Flute
Personal Info: I'm currently living in Atlanta with my husband
David, but soon to be moving to Portland, Oregon. Graduated from Georgia Tech and
then chose to ignore my degree to work in theatrical lighting. I also sing with
Sweet Adelines International (a women's barbershop organization) in both a quartet
and a chorus.
Memory: Obviously not filling out this form the first time as I
managed to think I graduated 10 years later than I did. I would have to say the
snowball fights during paper drives were excellent fun.
Name: Scott Hinckley
Email: scott@thehinckleys.com
Years in Band: 1983-1986
Instrument played: Trombone
Personal Info: Married to another Grissom Band Alumni Julie Adams
(now Julianna Hinckley).
Memory: All those wonderful band trips.
Lori.
Name: Kent Holmberg
Email: holmberg@northernnet.com
Years in Band: 1972-1975
Instrument played: Trombone
Personal Info: I have a deep appreciation for music. I continue
to play music. As a result of my experience, both of my children play and enjoy
music.
Memory: There are too many wonderful memories to answer this question.
Name: Mark A. Hooper
Email: hemsi300@yahoo.com
Years in Band: 1972-1976
Instrument played: TUBA
Personal Info: Paramedic Supervisor with HEMSI, married to Kathy,
a police officer. Employed by NASCAR at Talladega Super speedway as A track paramedic.
Memory: I have two fond memories getting caught with beer and BOONES
FARM STRAWBERRY in the toilet tank in Atlanta and yelling at Sparks in front of
the whole band for messing with my car!
Name: Adam "Leia Boy" Horne
Email: achorne@panther.bsc
Years in Band: 1993-1997
Instrument played: Sax (ATB)
Personal Info: My name is Leia. I live in the hood at Birmingham
Southern College, where I am a biology and chemistry major. I don't have much more
to say here.
Memory: Saxophones always getting in trouble, word to my boys.
I can wheeze louder than that! Look at me! Unless he has got a gun.. Don't you be
defiant...
"The time you are a part of the Grissom band will be the best times of your life.
Live them to their fullest, and look back on them fondly. The force will be with
you, always."
Name: Michele Hardesty Houston
Email: michele.j.houston@boeing.com
Years in Band: 1982-1985
Instrument played: Clarinet, Flag Corps
Personal Info: Graduated from Auburn in 1989 with a degree in Business
Management. Currently (and intermittently) working on a Master's degree in Accounting.
After living in Florida, California, Texas, and Georgia, I am back in Huntsville.
I am the single mother of a six year old daughter, Taylor, who's social life and
activities already keep me super busy. I work for Boeing as an Industrial Engineer
on the National Defense and Commercial Airline programs. Not exactly the career
path I would have chosen, but who knows how these things happen.
Memory: Lots of memories: Getting a chaperone to sneak several
of us to Dauphin Island on our Mobile trip to lay out and Deborah Carroll and I
getting so sunburned that we had to steal hotel sheets to sit on for the bus ride
home. Guard camp at U of A, where we stayed in a gross, roach-infested dorm and
survived on Gatorade because the food sucked so bad-not to mention Deborah bringing
her teddy bear, "teddy freddy", and sprayed her boyfriend's cologne on it so she
wouldn't miss him too bad (sorry Deborah!). One flag corp member who was so intent
on marching that she marched right into a 3 foot deep hole and just about caused
serious permanent damage. And definitely the day that everyone sat around and cried
because Sparks quit, while two people, who shall remain nameless, just about jumped
for joy.
Name: Cherry Jones Hovik
Email: cjhovik@home.com
Years in Band: 1977-1981
Instrument played: Trumpet
Name: Jeff Howard
Email: jhoward76@hotmail.com
Years in Band: 1983-1987
Instrument played: Clarinet
Personal Info: I received a bachelors of music from the Cleveland
Institute of Music and my teaching license from UAH. I was a band director in Decatur
for five years and LOVED IT!! It really is a great and wonderful life from that
end as well. The interaction with all the kids is the best (and sometimes worst)
part. It was also fun to go to conventions and hanging out with the directors I
knew growing up. It's amazing what comes out after a few drinks, but don't worry
guys - you're secrets are safe with me! In spite of how much I was enjoying life,
I couldn't get over this nagging feeling that I should quite everything, sell my
car, and move to Israel. So in the summer of 1999 I quit everything, sold my car
(sob, sob) and moved to Israel. I am now an Israeli citizen. Since my arrival in
the Holy Land I have learned to converse in Hebrew, shoot a rifle, and use the *&#%
metric system. All of these are very useful skills in the Middle East. I would have
liked a job just like I had in the States, but they don't do the 'band' thing in
Israeli schools. Instead, I have been playing full time in the Ra'anana Symphonette,
a professional orchestra just north of Tel Aviv. I also teach part time at the Hassadna
Conservatory in Jerusalem. I'll soon be moving from Jerusalem to Haifa because I
just won the job of assistant principle clarinet in the Haifa Symphony. We (Haifa
symph.) are supposed to go on tour to China this summer. I can't wait! Haifa is
a GORGEOUS city. Mountains, the Meditteranean, lush gardens (Jerusalme is in the
desert), stunning views, etc. It's very clean and the people are more laid back
than they are in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. I almost got married three years ago, but
am currently single. I feel certain that one day the future will hold a wife and
kids for me.
Memory: Geeeeze, where do I start? I suppose GHS band memories
can be divided into two categories. One category combines pride, hard work and purpose.
There's nothing like sitting on a stage or marching in a stadium and knowing that
hundreds of people are going ape over the performance that you're a part of. Even
better is knowing that they darn well ought to be wetting their seats because of
how special and exciting the moment is. The hard work the led up to these events
was also an insepparable part of the experience. I'll always be grateful to all
the directors for putting those wonderful memories into my life. My first year was
the last "Sparks" year, then we had Rich, Smith, Vernon, and - my senior year -
Connell. I feel fortunate to have had a taste of these different periods of the
GHS band. They are each wonderful and unique. There is, of course, just 'something'
about this band that transcends all these different times. Something truly great.
The other memory category is undoubtedly the friends and fun. There were so many
special people!! If I am blessed with friends for the rest of my life that are as
special as the people I was close to in the GHS band, I will be a very fortunate
man. My best friends to this day came from that time and that place. I have to mention
two events before the end of this novel. The time we stole a baby duck from Busch
Gardens was kinda' classic! It died on the bus and we burried it behind a McDonalds.
I also remember the trip to Knoxville when the chaperones busted me in my girlfriend's
room at room check. A fairly serious infraction. My case was handed over to Mr.
Vernon who handled the situation in an entirely appropriate manner: He did nothing.
Thanks again!!! I want you to know, Theo, that your actions served as an example
for me later in life. I ALWAYS turned a blind eye to my own band campers who broke
school rules in the pursuit of blissful adolescent passion. Thanks for being a such
great role model!!!
Name: Jay Howell
Email: Johowell@ro.com
Years in Band: 3
Instrument played: Trumpet
Personal Info: Working on getting a commission in the Army
Memory: Definitely the band trips! And when Mr. Connel jumped on
the hood of that jocks car, that was pretty neat.
Name: John Howell
Email: JohnandRebecca@altavista.net
Years in Band: 1981-1984
Instrument played: Trumpet
Personal Info: John graduated from University of Alabama in Huntsville
in 1989 with a BS in Industrial and Systems Engineering. He worked for Teledyne
Brown Engineering for a couple of years before being hired at NASA Marshall Space
Flight Center as a Technical Manager in 1991.
In 1995, he married Rebecca Heintschel (Grissom class of 1988). Rebecca is a dentist
in private practice in downtown Huntsville.
On June 23, 2000, John and Rebecca had a son, Chase Andrew.
Memory: My best memories center around the band trips. The lack
of sleep, riding in the back of the bus, the "break-ups and make-ups", seeing new
places, and of course, winning the bulk of the competitions! What made being in
the band the best was the people! The funniest guys and prettiest gals were in the
band, and we always stuck together. Thanks to all my bandmates for making my time
a Grissom a blast!
Name: Bud Hubbard
Email: BudHubbard@aol.com
Years in Band: 1980-1984
Instrument played: Trumpet, Band Captain
Personal Info: After high school I graduated from UAH with a BS
in Finance, then from Alabama with an MBA. I stayed in Huntsville for a few years,
then moved to Atlanta to work for Andersen Consulting.
While Atlanta is technically home, in reality home has been somewhere else for the
last few years, as I've been on several long term out of town assignments. I spent
a year in Manhattan, then Washington D.C., and as of this posting I'm living in
Paris, France for the next several months.
I'm still single with no kids. (I guess I'm waiting until I grow up first.) As for
music, I haven't touched my horn since the last note of the '84 Spring Concert.
No great loss for the world, I never was that good anyway.
Memory: All the band trips, even though we did go to some cheesy
places. Dan Keel actually knocking someone unconscious during a pillow fight in
Orlando as we terrorized a room full of freshmen across the hall. The thrill of
seeing people jump out of their seats when we would do the big goal line to goal
line front. Even the bands we competed against would give us a standing ovation.
The echo off the mountain. Selling oranges on cold rainy days in December. Sparks
trashing all those bullhorns. Carnival Overture. Getting to listen to Ken Watters
play his horn everyday and not having to pay a cover charge. Making friends that
are still friends 20 years laterand far, far too many other great memories to mention
here. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the reunion.
Name: Chana (Hubbard) Borgh
Email: chana.r.borgh@ac.com
Years in Band: 1979-1982
Instrument played: Oboe
Personal Info: After high school I graduated from UAH with a degree
in finance. I moved to Atlanta, attended Georgia State University, and received
an M.B.A. Two years ago I married the love of my life, a Swedish gentleman, and
am currently living in the Washington, D.C. area working as a management consultant
for Andersen Consulting.
Memory: The extraordinary music, camaraderie, and enduring friendships.
Name: Dorma Lee Hutcheson
Email: thutch@peop.tdsnet.com
Years in Band: 1973-1977
Instrument played: Alto clarinet
Personal Info: I have lived in Mentone, AL for 11 years and practice
dental hygiene in Fort Payne, AL. I am also a member of the State Board of Dental
Examiners of Alabama. My husband Terry Hutcheson is an attorney in Fort Payne and
I have a step-daughter, Janet, who lives in Huntsville.
Memory: I can't imagine any former GHS band member printing something
that would not be suitable for publication on this page. We are all such angels.
There are so many wonderful memories from the Ward/Sparks era. The trips to All-State
and Six Flags Over Georgia (the old timers did not go to such exotic locations as
New Orleans, Chicago, Austria, etc.) were such fun! The best memories are the friends,
the hard work, the fun, the incredible talent and the MUSIC! Many thanks and much
love to all of you who were a special part of my life.
I
Name: Stuart Ivey
Email: iveystu@auburn.edu
Years in Band: 2001-2005
Instrument played: trombone, drum major
Personal Info: I am currently at Auburn University, double majoring
in Music Education and Mathematics.
Memory: I can't get it down to one, so I'll have to give a few:
Daytona Beach 2002, Indianapolis 2003, Alex City 2003, Hawaii 2004
J
Name: Andrea Jacks
Email: agolightly@aol.com
Years in Band: 93-96
Instrument played: Clarinet/Pit
Personal Info: Well, I am currently attending the University of
Alabama (ROLL TIDE!) And really loving it - I really don't have any other "accomplishments"
to speak of...yet!!
Memory: Of course, the Chicago and New Orleans trips were awesome
("I got the Pallas Hotel Blues"), and I'll never forget the time that Mr. Connell
ripped his shirt in half during marching practice!! I miss you guys! Drop me a line!
Name: Beth (Hoover) Jamison
Email: bjamison@marykay.com
Years in Band: 1986-1990
Instrument played: Clarinet
Personal Info: Graduated from Bryan College with a degree in Psychology
in1994. Married Matthew Jamison in 1994. Moved to Mississippi in 1998. Currently
a full time Mom of 2 sweet kids with a part time home business with Mary Kay Cosmetics.
Memory: Sock tan lines from marching band practice - remember them?
Cheering at football games. Being a section leader. Pretending like I was keeping
up in A Band! Hanging out with friends.
Name: Kevin Janasak
Email: kjanasa@us.ibm.com
Years in Band: 1972-1976
Instrument played: Alto Sax
Personal Info: Wow, what a rush to find this site and spend several
minutes on memory lane! I have sincerely enjoyed looking at the names of dear friends
who I have not thought about for over twenty years. It's great to see what a positive
impact the GHS Band had on all of our lives.
I have sadly not kept up with reforming music since graduating from Auburn in 1881
and I realize what void has resulted. I received my MBA from the University of Miami
in 1985. I have lived in several locations since leaving the great State of Alabama,
Boca Raton, FL, New Caanan, CT, and now Dallas, TX.
I have never married, choosing to enjoy my career instead.
Memory: It has been so many years since GHS that I only remember
highlights... Six Flaggs over Georgia Concert Band Competitions, Band trips Marching
competitions! I will always remember my friends, wherever they are today, Debbie,
Pam, Nancy and so many more! And who can say enough good things about Dave Ward
and Jim Sparks, people who were leaders, role models and helped instill so many
great qualities in so many of us, not to mention their passion for music!
Name: Billy Jenkins
Email: angieandbill@earthlink.net
Years in Band: 1979-1982
Instrument played: Percussion
Name: Paula Robinson Jenkins
Email: paulaj74@netzero.net
Years in Band: 1989-1992
Instrument played: Clarinet
Personal Info: I stayed in Huntsville until 95, then moved to Nashville,
to attend MTSU. I was married to Bobby Jenkins, a long-time family friend in July
of 97. We have a home between Murfreesboro & Nashville in the somewhat small town
of Smyrna. In May of this year (2000), I gave birth to possibly the the most wonderful
baby on the planet, Emily...(just what the world needs, a mini-me!).I currently
work at home for Ken-Tech Consulting updating existing web pages, and have begun
designing my own.
Memory: Not sure if it the fondest, but one word....."Firebird"!!
Name: Jim Jernigan
Email: jimjernigan@home.com
Years in Band: 1970-1974
Instrument played: Trumpet
Personal Info: Married with one son, John, who plays alto sax (oh,
well!). Living in Chicago area, working for Amoco doing environmental work. Graduated
Vanderbilt in '78 and '82, Ph.D. in Pharmacology.
Memory: Winning our first Six Flags in 1970 tops the list (the
bus rides go without saying...). Blowing Butler off the field in a marching competition
(somewhere in Georgia) in 1970. Winning Six Flags again in 1974. Doing the Ward
"tie touch" count during the rests. Hearing trumpet players from other schools screaming
"Go, trumpets" as we left the football field during competitions.
Name: Debra Jessick/Woodrow
Email: dwoodrow@journeysinhealing.com
Years in Band: 1973-1977
Instrument played: French Horn
Personal Info: After graduating from high school, I attended Auburn
University and then UAH. I went to work for Intergraph Corp and married at 21. I
was married for eighteen years, traveled extensively for work for various computer
companies and eventually ended up living in California from 94 until 2002. I returned
to Huntsville in 02 and then recently moved again to Tennessee.
Memory: Too many to mention; but there were many memories of listening
to Doobie brothers and Chicago during the many bus trips. I recall those trips every
time I hear that music.
Updated: 01/11/07
Name: Cassie Johnson
Email: cassjohnson@hotmail.com
Years in Band: 1993-1997
Instrument played: flag corps.
Personal Info: I am living in Philadelphia, PA, working as a copy
editor/writer and missing the south so much! I look back on my Grissom Band days
as some of the best times of my life, and I would live them again in a heartbeat!
"All the way to East Peru, Girls!" - Stan the Man
Memory: I loved the summer practices when it was just the guard
learning the routines. Waking up early in July seemed brutal, but we bonded so much
over ballet routines ("step sachet, step tour jete, step sachet, step step, jete
step, jete step, skip step, bam bam!" Any guard girl from my day should remember
that one!), jazz hands, and parking lot marches. My best memories from high school
come from the band.
Name: Eric Johnson
Email: johnsone@hillsboroughcounty.org
Years in Band: 1972-75
Instrument played: Trumpet
Personal Info: Graduated from the University of Florida with a
BA in economics in 1978 and completed my MPA at the University of South Florida
in 2001.
As of 2003, Debra and I have been married 25 years and our daughter Kim is studying
art at the University of South Florida. Spent 6 years as a federal government economist
before switching to local gov't finance. I've been Director of Management and Budget
for Hillsborough County in Tampa for the past 10 years and active with the Government
Finance Officers Association. Missed the band reunion due to passing a kidney stone.
I appreciated the pictures that were posted. Current hobby is backpacking on the
Appalachian Trail. Would love to hear from others from my era.
.Memory: Being part of a great organization. Racing through the duet for trumpets
on Sleigh Ride at the Christmas concert while Dave Ward valiantly tried to slow
Arnie and me down. He wasn't successful. Trying out for drum major and having to
direct to "China Grove." I met the Doobie Brothers band this year and told them
how I still attempt to direct to it every time I hear it. Still have my Benge. I
scare animals when I try to play it but can still triple tongue after all these
years. My best to everyone past and present.
Name: Kay Graves Johnson
Email: johnson_k@ssainc.com
Years in Band: 1969-1973
Instrument played: Flute/flags
Personal Info: Married Vaughan Johnson of Tuscaloosa, two teenage
daughters. Graduated 1977 from Univ of Al. Comptroller of Architectural/Engineering
firm.
Memory: My fondest memories are of all the "firsts" we did for
the brand new band and school. The fabulous winnings at Roswell, (the flags brought
the crowd to their feet!) and Six Flags. The wonderful friends and all the hard
work in the heat of the practice field as well as the band room!
Name: Kellie Johnson
Email: flooch@mindspring.com
Years in Band: 1981-1984
Instrument played: Trombone, rifle corp
Personal Info: After college, I moved to Atlanta, GA. I married
my high school sweetheart, Marcus Kirby, in 1988. Our first 11 years of marriage
were spent traveling and building our home. We now have a beautiful daughter, Lauren,
born July 22, 1999 and 3 dogs -Alex, Zero and Eddie - and Miss Kitti to keep us
company. Our home is on 7 acres on a dirt road in Monroe, about 40 minutes from
downtown Atlanta. It is a peaceful life and a wonderful place to raise a family.
I work for a start-up company based in Montreal, PQ and have my office in the house.
Work takes place around Lauren's schedule. Marcus is busy selling software and makes
the daily commute into Atlanta. Just by chance, Mark Erb ('79) and his wife Judy
built a house right across the street from us! It's a small world...
Name: Martin "Marty" Johnson
Email: mnm@pacificglobal.net
Years in Band: 1970-1974
Instrument played: Trumpet
Personal Info: It's really great reading about all our former classmates.
I got my B.S. at 'Bama in "79, an M.B.A. at Columbia in '82. While in New York,
I met my wife Malia. We moved to Honolulu in '87 and opened a retail business. Malia
continues to run a metaphysical gift store called Sedona, (www.sedona-hi.com). I
finished my doctorate in Clinical Psychology in October of '99, My office is one
block from the store and across the street from the beach. Anyone from the early
GHS days who's coming to Hawaii, just drop me an e mail. Still have my trumpet,
haven't played in decades, but I can't bring myself to let it go.
Memory: So many memories, winning six flags twice, practically
living in the Band Room my senior year, Jim Jernigan's mutton chop side burns, Dean
Martin playing the piccolo part to Souza marches on the Tuba, all the cute girls
in flag corps, playing an 11 minute Tschaichovsky piece in 9 minutes at State Contest
(Mr. Ward brought a metronome with him after that!) Mostly I remember the practices
and the mischief and the pride of working hard and excelling. Well, OK, making out
on all those bus trips was pretty memorable too ;) I hope Dave Ward knows how much
of a positive influence he has been on so many young lives. It's been almost 25
years since I lived in Huntsville, when I miss it, it's Grissom that I miss the
most, and when I miss Grissom, it's the band experience that has the most meaning
and fond memories.
Name: Mary E. Johnson
Email: melamm@attbi.com
Years in Band: 1979-1982
Instrument played: Flute
Personal Info: Hello from Dallas, Texas. Hope that life has been
good to all of you. I am currently a mom of a 5 year old girl, and a 3 year old
boy. Who thought marching in the summer was tough. I have been married for 8 years
and have been in Dallas for 13 years. Went from studying medicine to becoming a
Paralegal. Go figure. Thanks for all the wild and fun memories.
Memory: Early fun memories would be bus trips to games, etc. my
freshman year with Richard leading the songs on the bus. Band trips to GA and TN.
Those moving concerts where many were in tears including Mr. Sparks.
Updated: 07-31-02
Name: Cyndy Jones
Email: CYNTHIA.L.JONES@cpmx.saic.com
Years in Band: 1982-1986
Instrument played: Baritone/Drum Major (85-86)
Name: David Jones
Email: david.t.jones@gmail.com
Years in Band: 1988-1992
Instrument played: Tuba / Trombone
Personal Info: Married in 2001, and now have two sons. I'm currently
working on a contract for the Army Reserve to keep their networks running. http://jonesfamily.webhop.net/
Memory: Trying to find the missing bus on a spring trip. Being
a part of the '90 band. (still one of the best I've heard anywhere.) All the Jazz
band gigs held under a tent.
Name: David T. Jones
Email: david.t.jones@gmail.com
Years in Band: 1988-1992
Instrument played: Tuba/Trombone
Personal Info: Working at Hibbett Sporting Goods main office in
Birmingham, AL keeping the PC's and the network running. Also going to school at
nights at Herzing College of Business and Technology.
Memory: Too many memories, can't decide on the best...
Name: Kristen Jones
Email: kajhu@arkansas.net
Years in Band: 1993-1997
Instrument played: Clarinet
Personal Info: I am currently attending Harding University as a
Elementary Education major with a minor in music.
Memory: My best memories of high school are with the band. The
trips were great, and nothing can compare. The Chicago trip my senior year was the
best. "Oh Captain, my Captain!" I sincerely hope all of the current and future students
take advantage of the awesome resources they have, especially the directors. Thanks,
Mr. Connell and Mr. Vernon.
K
Name: Janene Turis Kalb
Email: jakalb@access.digex.net
Years in Band: 1973-1975
Instrument played: I've been married for 5 years and my husband
and I live near Washington, DC because of his job. I've spent my work life since
graduating from UAH with business admin degrees working in the information systems
field: UAH for almost 10 years, Intergraph for 4.5 years and Marriott Distribution
Services here in Maryland for 4.5 years. I am currently working for Business Information
Technology as a PeopleSoft consultant and loving every minute of it. We have 4 cats:
Simpson, O.J., Pete and Tater. I do stained glass work as a hobby and spend a lot
of time web-surfing. I keep in close contact with my siblings: sister Michele -
GHS Flag Corps, brother Tim - GHS band (Baritone) and brother Jon - no musical inclinations!
Hi to all my band friends and thanks for this great web site!
Memory: I moved to Huntsville from southern California as a sophomore
and it was traumatic, but Dave Ward and "the band" made me feel like part of a very
special family almost immediately. I have a lot of fond memories: How a group of
us (Steve Collins and Cynthia Womack to name a few) threw Dave a birthday party
at the Holiday Inn (in February 1973 - I think it was his 27th and I remember thinking
how old that was at the time - I was 14!). Cynthia Womack and I being the first
female bus captains (in 1975!) Being named Outstanding Band Student my senior year.
The echo off the hillside during practice. The crowd's reaction when we played the
"Budweiser" song the first time. Gerry Higgins. Marching at Legion Field when the
football team went to the State championship, the streaker on stage in Tuscaloosa
at the state contest in 1974. "The Rebel" restaurant. Dave's blue VW Bug parked
outside the bandroom. Pizza runs at lunchtime to Mando's. The back seat of the bus
with someone special :-). Marching in the Christmas parade and having some heathen
child pull the end of my flute off. Frozen fingers and weak hot chocolate. Steve
Collins using a mike stand as a periscope out of the sax section during "Victory
at Sea". Nerve-wracking & gut-wrenching tryouts. Challenges for first chair. Fuzzy
band hats and wool uniforms in August. Music so intricate and difficult that it
was beyond the talent of most high school students, and how it we rose to the challenge.
Performances so powerfully emotional that they made you cry. I am still not sure
how Dave managed to inspire such exquisite genius in a group of hormonally-challenged
teenagers, but I am grateful to have been along for the ride. We were the undisputed
best at what we did and it was a real head-trip to go somewhere and have our reputation
precede us. "The Band" was the best thing about Grissom High School and made the
rest of high school life tolerable. Thank you, Dave!
Name: Pamela Crawley / Kanik
Email: pkbab5@ieee.org
Years in Band: 1994-1998
Instrument played: Clarinet
Personal Info: (As of 1/03)- Recieved a BS in Computer Science
in Aug '01 and will finish my MS in Software Engineering in May '04. Married to
Thomas Kanik in Sept '01. Bought a nice little house in Madison AL, no kids YET.
Tom's working as an Electrical Engineer for the Department of Defense, and I am
working full time as a Software Engineer for a private defense contractor in town,
sometimes working in National Missile Defense, sometimes working on the Comanche
helocoptor. It's a lot of fun, and it's wonderful to know that I'm helping to keep
our country safe.
Memory: Playing a solo in B Band my freshman year. That girl that
always picked on me coming up to me in my Senior year crying and apologizing for
picking on me for 4 years. Missing the bus to the contest whilst on a band trip
my freshman year and taking a cab from the hotel to the contest. Sitting on the
bus my junior year on yet another band trip overhearing the chaperones talk about
"there was this freshman once who missed the bus and took a cab..." Getting snowed
in at the Heart of Auburn Motel during All State, going out into the snow to the
Arby's to try to get some food, failing because Arby's didn't have electricity,
and getting back to the motel and having to put my feet in the bath to thaw them
out. Playing the Nutcracker in a Christmas concert one morning, then running over
to the VBC to dance in the Nutcracker that very night. Playing Schaharazade better
than the UAB band. Marching single file in our crisp white uniforms into the football
stadium in time to the drumline with almost military precision, and hearing the
spectators go "wow" under their breaths. Performing at a competition during a band
trip, and seeing other bands file into the auditorium right before we played and
then leaving right after we played - their directors had made them come just to
listen to us. But, as always, my fondest memory was the music itself, and the part
I played in creating it.
UPDATE: 01-29-03
Name: Jeff Karr
Email: jeffnbama1@excite.com
Years in Band: 1972-1976
Instrument played: French Horn
Name: Don Keel
Email: don.keel@theaustin.com
Years in Band: 1979-1983
Instrument played: French Horn, Mellophone, Band Captain
Personal Info: After leaving high school, I spent a little time
playing in a rock band for fun and later for the Air Force. When that fun meter
was pegged, I went to Auburn and received a "EE" degree. I spent most of the 1990's
building things and blowing them up as an Air Force officer. If you turned on CNN
and saw something really bad going on in the world, I was probably there (Panama,
Middle East, Bosnia, Haiti, Korea, South America). I moved to Southern California
in 1997 and went to work developing theme parks for the Walt Disney company. That
work was amazingly similar to designing and building air bases. After a year of
that, I had an excellent opportunity to drive projects for The Austin Company in
Irvine, CA where I am able to use the MBA it took me seven years to complete. All
of that wallows in comparison to December of 1999 when I finally married Ellen (Little).
Its truly amazing how you can know someone for twenty years and still find out things
about them every day you never knew, but we're having a ball. Ellen, Morgan (2/91)
and Katie (11/94), and I were joined by (William) Bryan Keel in March of 2001. I
was picked up for a senior management position in the Atlanta office of my company
in the summer of 2001 and we now live in Duluth, GA with a guinea pig, hamster,
fish, and a great dog named Scarlett.
Memory: I have many fond memories of the band, but playing Santa
Esmerelda in the Fall and Jupiter in the Spring really stand out. Also, the aftermath
of Kenny Watters falling through the ceiling will always make me laugh...
UPDATE: 11-20-02
Name: Ellen Little Keel
Email: ellenkeel@comcast.net
Years in Band: 1979-1983
Instrument played: Flute/Band Librarian
Personal Info: Graduated from Auburn University in 1987; dabbled
in various graduate programs but never finished... Married (unwisely) and divorced
(showing more wisdom) a former band member but did get two beautiful little girls
out of the fiasco. Was working writing code and doing missile defense analysis for
a Huntsville defense contractor when I became "reacquainted" with Don Keel. We finally
decided to "get it right" and were married in December of 1999. Currently living
in Southern California as the adventure continues....
Memory: Painting the band library that hideous blue because Don
and Lloyd thought it would "keep me calm"...bus trips and making sure my mom did
NOT ride on mine...the thrill of standing at perfect attention during marching competition
awards presentations and watching Mark Hagood and Scott MacPherson perform fabulous
salutes when we were announced as the WINNER!!...Hearing the immortal words over
the PA: And now, Ladies and Gentlemen, the Virgil I. Grissom Marching Tiger Band!!...Goose
bumps from the crowd volume in response to the traditional goal-line to goal-line
stand...Catching Sparks completely off-guard with mine and Susan's "combined" try-out:
Susan Little??? Who the he** is that???
Name: Cortni Colvin Kelley
Email: cortnik@striker-systems.com
Years in Band: 1991-1995
Instrument played: Flag Corps and Flute
Personal Info: I was married on February 5, 2000 to Richard Kelley
of Moody, Alabama. We have recently moved to Nashville and bought our first house!
Name: Paul Kessler
Email: paul_kessler@comcast.net
Years in Band: 1996-1999
Instrument played: Trombone (Symphonic I and II)
Personal Info: I will never forget my years in the Grissom High
School Band. Although things were tough at times, you never forget it. I have an
M.S. Aerospace Engineering degree and a Bachelors in Biology. I am currently working
with Raytheon in Denver, CO. I have a wife of two years and no children just yet.
I would like to thank Mr. Connell and Mr. Vernon for everything they have given
me. I am currently trying to mail Mr. Connell's Dennis Wick 5AL mouthpiece back
to him. He lent it to me in 1998. I forgot that I even had it. Sorry for the long
wait. I normally return things to people in a timely manner. I don't think that
this would qualify since it has been 8 years.
Memory: My fondest memories with the band have been the travelling.
I loved going to the Bands of America competition in Indiana, the competition in
Chicago, and the Universal Studios competition in Orlando, FL where the chaperones
wouldn't believe me when I introduced them to my brother who visited me in the hotel
room. That was the first time that he had to prove that he was related to me. I
remember the stomping of Mr. Connell's foot on the marching tower. I couldn't believe
that thing stood up to so much abuse. GHS Band Rocks!!
Name: Michael Kilpatrick
Email: soulboy7@hotmail.com
Years in Band: 1981-1985
Instrument played: Percussion
Personal Info: After t |
