Dommerich Elementary

August 1, 2008

Welcome to the Dommerich Elementary Alumni Blog

Hello, It's Marianne Wittels. I am the website administrator for this wonderful "thing" called the Dommerich Elementary School Alumni Association.

I was proud to be at the grassroots level of planning for this event, and speaking for all the committee members, will welcome any memories and comments about the Reunion Day.

We will be keeping the website open, share your memories of childhood and your life today with other members of this incredible Alumni.

Please use this Blog to contact and converse with old friends, relay any stories of your days at Dommerich Elementary School, Reunion memories, and of course any suggestions and comments relating to your time at.

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Dean Harisis on August 2, 2008 12:46 PM

Anatomy of an Elementary School Reunion

By Dean Harisis, Class of ‘74

We all want to be ten, again. Or maybe it’s seven, when Santa Claus is still all too real. Or maybe twelve, when each day meant another afternoon on one of the Little League fields. Whatever the perfect age, one constant thread is weaved through them…the age of innocence. Of not having responsibilities. Short of respecting your parents and elders, and doing good in school, there were no boundaries to the fun one could possibly have.

That was life in Maitland for many of us, and Dommerich Elementary was our daily meeting place, where recess and P.E. were our first field of dreams.

In late February of this year, a fellow former classmate that still lives within an hour of the area (Gary McKechnie) alerted me and other former classmates of the school’s impending doom. He even shared with me some correspondence that his older brother, Kevin (Class of ’69) had written to the school’s administration. Little did I know at the time that Kevin and I, separated by five years in age (literally a chasm back when we were younger), would share this incredible passion for Maitland and all memories of Dommerich Elementary. They say that distance makes the heart grow fonder. With Kevin in Indianapolis and I out west in Southern California (by way of Yorba Linda), it was no wonder that two former residents would view this news as nothing less than pure sacrilege. We loved the idea of the current residents, the current “kids”, getting a more contemporary school. We just shuddered at the thought of that little brick building getting pummeled by bulldozers.

I followed Kevin’s lead. I wrote a letter to the school’s administration, a letter that I like to call “The Impassioned Plea.” Even mailed it the old fashioned way. Wouldn’t it be great if former students could walk through the halls again and have a lunch in the cafeteria? Play a game of kickball? See old friends, and perhaps an old teacher? Have just one last chance to soak it all in? Maybe my timing was bad. The construction plans were well down the river by this point and the school, in all honesty, didn’t show any interest. And they probably had good reason to…Why should they accommodate a bunch of aged freeloaders who just want another day in the sun?

Gary, Kevin and I shared some more e-mails and a dialogue kicked up. One of the other original recipients of Gary’s alert, Sue Walker-Machiarella (also Class of ’74), a person that I had met in Miss Landers’ third grade, was also involved in these intensive online e-mail chat streams. Kevin alerted me of the Dommerich web site and the current roster of PTA members (with home phone numbers). I called the incoming (’08-09 school year) PTA President and left her a voicemail. She returned my call almost the same day with a shade of astonishment. Her words were something like this, “I received your voicemail and I was so intrigued by what you said that I just had to call you back in California and hear more.”

My impassioned plea was being listened to. I told Suzan Coddington a lot of things that day. Like how growing up in Maitland was so awesome. How so many successful and appreciative people, thanks to the wonderful leadership and life lessons that Dommerich’s faculty had taught us, would be willing to attend a single day event and “celebrate” the school and the teachers that guided us. That we’d be willing to help the PTA with donations to make it worth their while. And I said another thing. "You only have one chance to do this. Because when that wrecking ball starts swinging at my old school, people like me are never coming back…The Dommerich that I once knew would be gone forever and there would no longer be any incentive to give back to that particular school." She listened some more and promised to get back to me.

It might have been a couple weeks, but it felt like a couple years. We had our day, Suzan assured me, but the scope of what it was going to be was not clear at the moment. Summer was upon everyone and it was time for those PTA volunteers to take a much deserved break.

We didn’t take a break…we mobilized. Using a contact list that I have maintained for my high school class the past five years, I sent out a notice to 40+ Dommerich alumni from the Class of ’74. Over half of them almost immediately responded with a “Sounds great! I’m in!” Old friends from Massachusetts, Missouri, Idaho…Hawaii. We had momentum. If one graduating class had that level of enthusiasm, there had to be 40 more that felt the same way we did. So we set out to prove our hunches right.

Kevin, using inputs from several of us, put together a Master Plan. The manuscript was mailed to the PTA for their review. It was an ambitious plan, far beyond what we honestly felt could be accomplished. But we had to paint the perfect picture to have a canvas to work with. And our intuition was correct. The bulldozers were already at work and the phasing of the entire campus rebuild would eliminate much of the playground areas for “our day.” We didn’t give in.

Volunteers started to approach us. Marianne Wittels, also a Class of ’74 disciple, said she had some experience with web site creation and administration. We listened. Kevin and I agreed to fund the first rounds and Marianne worked night and day over the next 3-4 weeks on this very web site. It started to bring old classmates together. The web site continues to go through changes and enhancements, as this blog is evidence of the metamorphosis that the whole reunion effort continues to go through.

We knew we needed more than a web site and word-of-mouth to get the flywheel spinning faster. We needed the media. Gary knew people, or more importantly, he knew how to get face time with the right people. He made some calls and it wasn’t soon after that a reporter with the Orlando Sentinel interviewed Kevin and I from afar. She listened and felt the passion that we shared for this little school, in this little community, that meant so much to so many others well beyond ourselves. She told us the story would be published within the next two weeks. It was two weeks…it felt like a couple years. It hit the Sunday paper and our “Classmates” tab exploded from three pages to over six within the first 24 hours. As of this writing it’s already up to eight or nine…and growing.

There’s more to come. Oh, City of Maitland, there is definitely more to come. One article in the Sentinel won’t do this event enough justice…it was merely the first (and most important) spark. Thank you, Amy Rippel. We all owe you a debt of gratitude. More media events will certainly follow, that I can assure you.

So keep checking this web site, and this blog, for more stories, important updates and events in the life of an elementary school reunion. It’s going to happen, friends. “Oh, Ray, they we’ll definitely come.”

Dean Harisis on April 27, 2009 7:41 PM

So here we are...5 days out from the big day.

Since this initial entry into the Alumni Blog, we are now approaching 10,000 unique visitors to the web site, have close to 550 registered alumni (and legions more that haven't registered but I sure to come anyway), along with a very large armful of retired teachers that have posted as well. The BBQ is nearly sold out (and I anticipate the remaining seats will go within the next 24-48 hours).   The reunion has been featured in three print articles, cross-linked to several different web sites, has received the full endorsement of Mayor Kinson and the City of Maitland ("Dommerich Elementary Day" shall be formally declared on Saturday, May 2nd), and we have a plethora of local TV and radio newstations ready to cover the event.

It means so much to all on the Reunion Committee to see the response that has been generated. Just like the mighty oaks that once guarded the school's exterior, the whole concept started with one tiny seed and it took ALL OF YOU to help it grow to something much larger than any of us could have imagined.   And you, the alumni, are coming from far and wide. From all corners of these United States: California, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, Georgia (to name the ones that I'm aware of).

So come out and enjoy the day, enjoy the fesitivities, enjoy one last walk down memory lane. But most importantly, enjoy spending time with old friends, your families and don't forget to thank a teacher or two. After all, if it wasn't for them, you would not be reading this right now. ;-)

Best regards,

-Dean

Karen Winckelmann (Browning) on August 5, 2008 4:51 PM

Does anyone know where Julie Oling ended up? Her and I were inseparable! How about Suzanne O'Leary?Thanks, Karen

Melissa Lerman (Black) on August 6, 2008 4:48 PM

I last was in contact with Julie in the early 90's, but I believe she's still in the Atlanta area. Her married name is Valderrama.

Mary Ann Hutchinson on August 9, 2008 10:01 AM

Hi. Do you have a sister named Susan? I remember a Susan Winckleman from my years at Dommerich.

Karen Winckelmann on August 13, 2008 12:04 PM

Yes I DO have a sister named Susan! For some reason she has not signed on to this site yet. She went on to graduate from WPHS in 1978. I will tell her you were asking about you! Karen

MaryAnn Hutchinson on August 9, 2008 9:59 AM

Hi Everyone!
This is exciting! I "graduated" from Dommerich in 1972. My name was Mary Ann Hutchinson. I am now living in Charlotte, NC with my husband and two teenagers. I would LOVE to hear from anyone who was in my class. Is there anyone reading this from Mrs. Volk's Enrichment Class? I also attended Maitland Junior High and Winter Park High.

Gary McKechnie on August 12, 2008 6:21 PM

Hello Ms. Hutchinson, Is your sister Patti Hutchinson? Or did you have a brother named Huey? I remember them both. They would have been the Class of '74. I always wanted to skate with Patti at Skate City, but was too shy. I never wanted to skate with Huey.

Joanne Metz on August 16, 2008 11:47 AM

I was in Mrs. Voke's enrichment class of 1973! I played th Fiddler in the play that year. I also went to Maitland and WPHS and I remember your name I think we were friends. It's been such a loooooong time!

I hope you come to the reunion!

Rex Hunter on October 24, 2008 11:28 AM

Hi, this is Rex your old neighbor from across the street on Arapaho. You gals were surrounded by the goofiest bunch of boys in the neighborhood. Me, Jon Imhoof ,Greg and Stevie Gibson. I remember Patty playing Star Trek with us in the Gibson's front yard tree. Glad to see you are doing well. Say hi to Patty for me.

Jeri Smart Mooney on December 3, 2008 1:18 PM

Hi Mary Ann, I vividly remember Mrs. Volk's enrichment class that I was in for 5th and 6th grade. I remember the plays we put on that probably bored the rest of the school to tears, but we had such a great time. I left Dommerich in 1973, but still remember all of my teachers. What a great impact they had on my education. The self paced learning was perfect, even if we did have to put up with being called names by all the other kids becuase of the "gifted" class name. I am so glad they have changed that name for future generations. It was a stigma.
I am looking forward to seeing you and everyone else how makes it to the reunion. I live in New Hampshire, but 3 of my 4 sisters are still in Orlando. Next year will be my 30th High School Reunion from Winter Park. Hope that there ia another party to celebrate that too.
Thanks to Gary and the committee for getting this going. I think a donation to the school PTA is a great idea. My husband is the state of NH PTA president and I know how tough it can be for schools to raise money to pay for the little extras that help the teachers out so much.

Jeri Smart

Jill (Neri) Dempsey on December 14, 2008 2:49 AM

This is just so much fun! My husband & I had a Christmas Party this evening & some other Dommerich Alumni & I talked alot about Dommerich. Nan Hughston, Sharon (Grant )Wulff, Ward Cottrel & I all graduated Dommerich in '73, Ernie Brady was '72 with my brother Jim. John & Lisa McEver, Fred & Lynn McEver, Melissa Latty & Alice Wavell were here & all graduated from WP but I don't think any of them went to Dommerich. Lisa McEver said her kids go to Dommerich now!

Rex Hunter, I remember your name but can't quite place you (unlike Bill Clinton I DID inhale) but you mentioned the Gibsons who I remember & I still stay in touch w/ Jon Imhoof (I don't know why since he said he'd rather be Joy Grossman's boyfriend than mine in 4th grade!) I mean, what the heck's up with that?!?!? That's OK, though, I mighta been marred for life but Joel Palmer asked me to go steady & gave me his necklace with the peace sign on it to wear for a week 'till he broke up w/ me. Actually, I think that might have been 5th or 6th Grade.

Anyone remember Mark Cotter or Mike McClanahan they were a couple of hotties that had a significant effect on my development of a love of the opposite sex!
Oh, and Dean Harises, are you sure the tall guy in the back row of the baseball picture standing next to Rick Lovett isn't Dan Cadden? Sure Looks like him.
Jill

LISA MORRELL on January 26, 2009 4:58 PM

HEY MARYANN......IM SCOTT MORRELL'S SISTER..... I ALSO KNOW YOUR SISTER AND WENT TO MAITLAND JR HIGH AND GRADUATED FROM WPHS.......... IM HERE IN ALTAMONTE SPRINGS ... WITH MY SON...AND MY PARENTS.... HOPE TO SEE SOME OF YA AT THE MAY REUNION.

Lynda Mogul on February 23, 2009 7:46 PM

Hello.

Would your husband's name happen to be either Clayton or Will?
I am just curious because I knew The Hutchinson'sand they lived
in Winter Park. Florida.

Lynda

Carol Weil Alford on August 16, 2008 7:45 PM

My husband and I went to Dommerich Elementary together., Maitland Jr. High and we went to Winter Park High School however neither of us graduated from Winter Park. My husband (Doug Alford) and I were married in 1988, we live in Safety Harbor, Fl (near Clearwater) and we have two sons. Our oldest is Chris and he just started at FSU this summer. Our youngest is Greg and he will be a junior at Countryside High School. We remember that our lunch at Dommerich was just .35 cents and we have great memories. We hope to hear from you all.

Patrice McHugh Campitelli on August 16, 2008 7:48 PM

How exciting! definitely bittersweet -- out w/ the old; in w/ the new!! Can't wait to see how things unfold!

Debbie Sibley Mitchell on August 16, 2008 7:49 PM

Can't wait for this, I was the 1st class to go into the school. It will be great to see everyone

deborah Bailey on February 13, 2009 10:15 PM

Hey Debbie! glad to see you on the reunion site! how r u? mom sees Bev every Christmas, so i know a little - miss you bunches!

Bydelle Satterwhite Brown on April 15, 2009 10:16 PM

Hi Debbie.
Just wondering if you remember me. You were pretty good friends with my sister, Wendy. She "graduated" Dommerich in 1970, along with you I think.

Barbara Albertson on August 16, 2008 7:50 PM

When we moved from Dover Shores to Maitland in 1967, Mrs. De Guery was my 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. McCall, Mrs. Ball, Mr. Stover too. Wonderful childhood memories etched in my heart forever, Dommerich Elementary!

Jill Dempsey on December 14, 2008 2:53 AM

Hey Barbara! Check out the photos of the 4th of July Party on Facebook! It was great to C U! Stay in touch!
Jill

lisa morrell on January 27, 2009 2:03 PM

hey barbara!! its me your old neighbor ......lisa morrell. how r you doing? yano im still here in florida......altamonte springs. next time you r in town how about giving me a call. would be nice to see you

lisa morrell

Diane Chance on March 12, 2009 10:07 PM

Lisa,

I miss seeing you at my dr.'s office. I hope you're doing well.
I look forward to seeing you at the reunion.
Take care,
Diane :)

Karin Ruse-Westerman on August 24, 2008 10:08 AM

I can not believe that they are tearing he school down. I went to Dommerich from 1st-6th grades back in 1977 and my husband Robert Westerman went there too and graduated there in 1975 We now are living in St Augustine ,Fl. with two wonderful boys RJ(11) and Robbie(7). I hope they will let everyone know when the reunion is. It would be great to see old friends from school. It will be interesting if there are any teachers that can make it to the reunion that taught when we went there.

Jill Dempsey on December 14, 2008 2:58 AM

If Mrs McCall shows up, I gotta tell her that I wasn't the one the ripped up the note & threw the pieces on the ground eventhough she made me stand in the corner for it!
Jill

Karin Westerman on April 28, 2009 11:50 PM

I do not remember you, you must have the wrong person. I was in Mrs McCall's class,but do not remember. I guess I am too stinking old

tim mcguire on September 5, 2008 1:25 AM

I went to Hill Elementary while Dommerich was being constructed. Hill was nothing but a four room set of portables. What a treat to move into the big, new Dommerich Elementary. We actually got to vote on the 'mascot" name, and I remember ordering a dark blue and white sweatshirt with the logo. Although it was never cool enough to actually wear it, we put them on and sweated it out with pride. Great memories, great teachers, and best of all, we got Mexican tophats every Friday ( fried bolognia with a slab of dry mashed potatoes in the center). Never eaten bolognia since.

Kevin McKechnie on September 10, 2008 3:51 PM

Tim, &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I remember everything you described, except for the &quot;Mexican Tophats&quot;.&nbsp; They sound like something to be avoided but, if you like, we can see about serving them at the reunion next year. You can wash it down with a pint of milk and an orange juice bar. Kevin McKechnie

Cheri davis on October 20, 2008 8:44 PM

kevin,

I too went to Hill Elementary for 3rd grade when my family moved to Maitland from Tampa. My fourth grade class was on the stage of Maitland Jr. High before Dommerich opened. Yep I too was one of the kids that walked over to our "New" elementary school.
What a wonderful childhood it was growing up in Maitland.
Wouldnt trade it for the world.
I look forward to the reunion!!!

Diane Stockwell Chance on September 12, 2008 11:26 AM

Wow! I remember all the good ole days at Dommerich and Maitland Jr. High.
Dean, I have a picture somewhere of all of us in Miss Landers class. I will find it and email it to you.

Thank you Maryanne, Dean, Gary and anyone else that is working on this. I know it a lot of work.

I can't wait for the reunion.

See you all soon!
Diane :)

Dean Harisis on September 15, 2008 11:47 AM

Hi Diane. We're excited for everyone at this stage. It should be a really fun day. You have peaked my curiousity with this 3rd grade pic from Miss Landers' class!

Be well,

-Dean

Jeff Chisholm on October 23, 2008 2:59 PM

Finally took time to go to the blog page and do a bit of reading. Diane, I'd like to see a copy of that 3rd grade picture...I'm in it somewhere! I haven't strayed far from the area. All three of my kids have been in Dommerich; fact is, the youngest is there in 5th grade right now. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the reunion!

Jeff

Diane Chance on March 12, 2009 10:04 PM

Dean,

I'm sorry, the picture I found was from 5th grade in Ms. Miller's class.
(I think that was her name).

Look forward to seeing you soon!
Diane

Keith Blackway on September 13, 2008 3:38 PM

You know that picture on the front of the web page with the interior entrance, it made my butt sore thinking about all those times I got paddled in that office. Those damn teachers really had it in for me! But I had a blast.

Keith Blackway

Dean Harisis on September 15, 2008 11:51 AM

What many people may not realize (or fail to appreciate) is the fact that Keith was often "the first one over the wall." What I mean by that is he had the guts to do stuff that most of us turned coward at. And if you followed Keith over that wall, you were blessed with a new, bold world and experienced things that you otherwise would not have. So Keith was our sacrificial lamb of sorts and he took the medicine well. And for that, I humbly thank him for not being afraid to explore the boundaries of what was achievable without facing death. My life was greatly enriched as a result.

-Dean

Carol Weil on September 16, 2008 12:35 PM

Hello Maryann Hutchinson,
I remember you and Candy Clifton. We went to Dommerich Elementary and Maitland Jr. High School. I married Doug Alford in 1988 and we have two teenage sons who are 18 and 16. We live in Safety Harbor, Florida which is in the Tampa Bay area. You, Candy, and I hung out often from the ages of 10-14. Do you remember me? I lived on Apache Trail and then on Deloraine Trail. I remember your sister Patty. How are you?

Jill Dempsey on December 14, 2008 3:06 AM

I remember Candy Clifton & even ran into her in New Smyrna where her prents had a house for years. Clay, her brother played baseball with my brother, Jim. Do you remember Mary Woodard? I think she lived near yall.
Jill

Jo Wellman on October 5, 2008 5:31 PM

Gary and Kevin,

I don't know if you will remember me, but I think we lived down Mohawk trail from you. You guys were both MUCH older (probably only 5-10 years :-). I remember you had Scotty - dogs.

What a FANTASTIC idea. I loved Dommerich -- my friends, my teachers. I saw Mrs. Hotaling back in January, and she mentioned the school was going to be demolished.

I'm sure you can count me and my little brother, Brett, in! Thank you for all of your hard work. Let me know what I can do from Athens, GA.
-Jo

Kevin McKechnie on October 8, 2008 9:00 AM

Jo,
What a pleasure to hear from another Dommerich classmate, and one that lived our "our" Mohawk Trail! We were at 2300 Mohawk Trail, and my dad still lives there today. What was your address? The 5 - 10 year age gap you mentioned was huge back then, but now that I'm 51, it doesn't seem so bad! I'm living in Carmel, Indiana now, and have for the last twenty years, but just returned from a visit to Maitland, where we met with the Dommerich school administration and PTA to go over reunion plans. It was a very productive meeting, and we're looking good for next May.
I'm surprised you remembered our Scotty "McDuff", although this reunion has uncovered many other memories from a lot of folks. I've alerted brother Gary to your message, and you should hear from him soon. See you in May!
Kevin

Lynda Mogul on February 23, 2009 7:43 PM

Hello Kevin.

How wonderful to read your entry. I was actually very dear friends with your sister Patricia. How is she? Will she be at the reunion? I hope so. I can remember going to Maitland Elementary the first year, then we moved into a trailer for the first half of my second year and my teacher was Mrs. Murrah. She was so sweet. Just like a wonderful
grandma.
I am looking forward to seeing everyone. What wonderful memories we will all have.

Lynda Mogul

Gary McKechnie on October 9, 2008 7:45 PM

Hey Jo -- or do I remember correctly when I recall you were Patti Jo? Sort of hazy, but I recall a tiny tiny tiny little girl with glasses, straight blonde hair, and a red turtleneck. I remember, vaguely, your brother Brett who, when I was older, asked me questions about becoming a performer. If I'm not mistaken, you lived next door to the Dodsons? If that's all true, then it's a shocker to see who I recall as someone who forever be seven years old has traveled well beyond that. Like me.

Dean Harisis on November 28, 2008 12:15 PM

THE MONEY THAT WE WOULD PAY TO BE 12, AGAIN.

I'd like for people still on the fence considering whether or not they plan to attend this reunion to think about that statement for a moment.

Several years ago I was coaching my son's Little League Baseball team. It was a truly spectacular Southern California Saturday Spring afternoon, late in the day as the shadows from the tall trees that surrounded the field stretched out over the green grass and orange infield clay. Pockets of scattered sunshine highlighted the kids in the field, and everyone was having "fun."

As I was leaning out of the dugout entrance taking in this beautiful vista...this beautiful brief moment captured in time, I found my mind wandering back to 1974. Only it was I on the field and I was the kid having all the fun.

I then looked back into the dugout and summoned my assistant coaches. I told them to look out over this wonderful field, how the light was dancing off the green grass, and most importantly, how everyone was having so much fun. It was perfect. Then I asked them a question, and I framed it like this:

"As adults, we don't think too hard about paying a crazy price for a World Series ticket, or front row seats to a rock concert or show. How much money would you be willing to spend just to swap places with your own kid for two hours?"

I told them that many (including myself) might empty entire savings/retirement accounts just for that opportunity. And they had difficulty disagreeing with that notion. Said another way, it's a priceless opportunity. The truth of the matter is that we would pay handsomely to have our youth back, even for a brief moment in time. Our youth was pure, pure in the sense that during those moments we didn't worry about war, about recession, about what the next week might bring. The chains of adulthood can wear heavy.

What's interesting about the Dommerich Reunion event at the school site is that it's literally free. All you have to do is show up. Certainly, we the organizers believe that the current PTA should benefit (via donations) for the opportunity to walk through the hallowed halls of Dommerich, with your old classmates, one last time. After all, without their cooperation and support none of this would be taking place.

So if you want to have the opportunity to feel 12 again (or 6, or somewhere in between), then please think long and hard about May 2, 2009. Despite a recession and many unknowns around the corner, this "kid" now residing in Southern California (since '81) is begging, borrowing and scratching every dime to make a go of it. From redeeming frequent flyer miles to spending the night at a classmate's house for the weekend, to renting a compact car for local transportation, I will find a way to be there.

I can't promise you what exactly will occur that day, who will be there or what emotions you may feel or share. But I can tell you this...it will be magical and it will be literally free. I sincerely hope you will join us.

Oh, the money I would pay to be 12, again.

Scott Belflower on December 2, 2008 8:54 PM

Dean and Gary,
I want to thank you for putting all of this together, I am reallly looking forward to seeing a lot of old friends in May. I moved from Maitland after graduating from UCF and have lived out of state ever since, but my parents still live in the same house on Tuscarora in Dommerich (on beautiful Lake Wampi). It will reallyl be neat to reestablish a lot of old friendships!

rial jones on December 7, 2008 9:17 PM

Hey Gary,
I just read the story in Orlando Magazine and wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed it. I remember each one of those stories and people as well. Is it possible that was 35 years ago? It appears Dommerich holds alot of great memories for all of us. I still drive by the school every now and again and tell my kids in the backseat whatever story comes to mind....I can't understand why they refuse to go to Maitland anymore!
Rial Jones

Dean Harisis on December 31, 2008 12:40 PM

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO MAKE THE REUNION A SUCCESS?

As we turn the page on 2008 (thank you!) and move eagerly into a brand new year, we are all reminded that the Dommerich Elementary Reunion event is barely four (4) months away. You younger Dommerich grads might view that as a long ways off, but let me tell you that the older grads in the crowd know all too well that May 2nd will be upon us faster than we all realize!

So, on the eve of the New Year, I ask you this: What are you personally doing to make the reunion a success? Have you been attempting to contact your former classmates? Have you been Googling names and looking on MySpace and FaceBook? Have you encouraged your former classmates to register here? More importantly, have you been planning any kind of get-together or "plan" to walk the hallowed halls of Dommerich as one group? And, considering how many teachers have registered so far, have you taken the time to write them a note?

The Reunion Committee can only create so many sparks. The flame is YOU! We need everyone's help in getting the word out. Tell your neighbors about it,. Post a thread in various online forums and chat rooms ("Off Topic" sections are great for this sort of thing). The sad reality about most reunions is that many people that would have liked to attend were never informed about it! I've seen this happen at the high school level too many times.

So if you're thinking about your New Years resolutions, please add one more to them. How about pledging to do whatever is in your power to elevate the awareness of this ONE TIME ONLY event to as many people as you can?

Thank you for your efforts and for participating in this awesome affair!

Best regards,

Dean Harisis
Class of 1974

P.S. DON'T FORGET TO CONSIDER BUYING A BRICK! The link is now to the left and not only will it help the PTA with current student needs, but it will create a "legacy stamp" on the new campus for either you, a favorite teacher or a loved one. Orders received by February 1 will be included in the initial campus construction (all bricks will be layed no matter when they are bought)!

Sue (Walker) Macchiarella on January 6, 2009 12:10 AM

What great fun to read the blogs and watch people reconnect. This is going to be great fun. I have downloaded some new-ish pics for posting on the web from when some of the memebers of the planning committee made their trek to Dommerich to meet with the PTA. There will be more coming...enjoy. And, I look forward to seeing everyone in May.

Ann Mayo (Krauss) on January 8, 2009 11:52 PM

Anyone know what will happen to the personalized cement blocks outside of the cafeteria? Around the time the elementary school opened we could etch our names and the date into fresh cement blocks if we donated $1.00 to the school? Ann (Krauss) Mayo Class of 1966

Dean Harisis on January 9, 2009 11:42 AM

Ann, we will work with the PTA and look into that for you. Given the current construction that has already begun, it's hard to say what is being protected. If these are markers that are easily removed, then it's possible they will be available as part of a larger "artifacts" auction that we have encouraged the PTA to move forward with. Many items from the old school may in fact be available via eBay style auctions after the old school finishes it's school year in June.

Dean Harisis on January 13, 2009 11:44 AM

I just confirmed with the PTA that those stones/markers were removed quite a long time ago, most likely when portable classrooms were being constructed and put into place. Sorry. Ann, have you registered on this site? I could not find your name under the Class of 1966.
-Dean

Doug Finora on January 15, 2009 11:34 AM

Fellow Alum,

Unbelievable! With the current public school system in crisis I would hope this "new approach" will take lessons from the way things were when we attended the BEST elementary school in all the land. Has anyone heard from the following: John Pierce, Roger Nutt, Cindy Mc Dowell and a host of other from the class of '76.

Respectfully,
Doug Finora

Dean Harisis on January 15, 2009 5:21 PM

Doug, great note! If you perform a search on the Classmate Sign-up page by your class year, you will find eleven (11) classmates from '76 already there. We recently sent a notification to nearly 900 Maitland Middle School (Jr High) "friends" on a FaceBook group page, and it appears that is bringing more Dommerich grads here.

Keep spreading the word and we hope to see everyone there on May 2. There is also a limited seating, paid BBQ event the same day...stay tuned for more news on that soon.

-Dean

Karen Davis on January 23, 2009 5:15 PM

Hey Handsome! So you really did blog the Dommerich Website. Nice!! Love Ya, Sis

Doug Finora on February 6, 2009 5:36 PM

Hey Karen,

Do you remember our nieghbors from Dyan Way, The DeLong family.? Check out Larry. I wonder where Leah and the younger brother are now?

Douglas

Karen Finora-Davis on March 25, 2009 5:21 PM

Hey Douglas! The DeLong Family has been found-at least Larry has. But where oh where are the Ballards, Linscott, Lauria's, Lieb"s, Dickenson"s, Beardon's etc. Found two of the Brady's. If yall are out there, give a shout! See ya soon, Douglas! Love, K

Kacy Akins on April 19, 2009 8:39 PM

Ok..Dyan Way..I am still best friends with Mike Perry..what about the Matthew's family? Goldwater was fun too...The Evans family and me :) but your street was the fun street and my mom kept me on restriction. PS..Why did she bleach the sidewalk and curb???

mike aldrich on May 4, 2009 8:49 PM

Hello Karen, I am the Brian and Mark Lauria's cousin- Mark is in the Lake Mary area- married two kids, Brian moved to Baton Rouge, LA years ago, he is married with a daughter.

Gayle (Busch) Murphy on January 18, 2009 7:07 PM

Hi...My name is Gayle Busch Murphy. I'm not sure if anyone will remember me, but I went to Dommerich for part of 5th grade and 6th, then to Maitland Junior High and on to WPHS, but moved in my sophomore year. That was from 1970-1975. I was in the band and a volleyball, basketball and softball player. Ms. Sheldon and Mrs. Albright were our coaches. Mr. Thomas was the band director at Maitland and then Mr. Jones. I would love to find out what happened to so many people...I was in Mrs. Hinson's sixth grade class. I am married and I have two boys, 11 and 16. I live in Montclair, New Jersey and I am teaching fourth grade. I'm going to through this out there and see who finds me!!! I hope to hear from someone!

Beth White Hosler on February 15, 2009 12:09 PM

Gayle,

I do remember you! Mainly from Maitland Jr. High where we played basketball, volleyball, and softball! Those were the days! Didn't we play softball on Mrs.Winklemann's team too?

I remember Ms. Albright and Ms. Sheldon too. They ran our tails off at practice!

I'm still living in Maitland. I am married with 3 boys ages 22, 20, and 16. I teach kindergarten at the Methodist School in Winter Park. I would love to hear from you!

Beth

Gayle Busch Murphy on February 27, 2009 6:57 PM

Beth...wow what a surprise! I have heard from Laurie Parsons and Cindy Manley and Jacky Jones. Cindy is in Texas, Jacky is in College Station, Texas and Laurie is in Winter Park. Jacky has a daughter going to college up here in Jersey. She is at Rutgers. Who do you keep in touch with? Do you ever hear from Chris Abrahamson? or Missy Schmidt? or Ginger Turnbull? Nancy Owen? I often think of everybody during those Maitland years and wonder where everyone is...would love any info...where did you go to school? How long have you been married? Stories...I want stories of people! My sister, Nancy, is a special ed teacher in Houston, Texas. My parents are also in Houston. Are you going to the reunion?
Gayle

Beth White-Hosler on March 5, 2009 4:51 PM

Hey Gayle,

It was great to hear from you! I do see Laurie once in a while and keep in touch via Christmas cards. We had lunch about a year ago and both our folks still live in the same houses in Maitland. My mom and dad still live across the street from the baseball fields behind Maitland Jr. High!

I haven't heard anything lately from Chris, Missy, Ginger or Nancy. I think Ginger was at Winter Park's 10 year re-union. I did see Nancy a long time ago, but I'm not sure she is still in the area.

I went to school at UCF and have been married almost 24 years! Wow that sounds like a really long time! My oldest son is getting married in November, so we are busy making wedding plans. My middle son is a Gator at University of Florida and he knows Laurie Parsons nephew who is on the basketball team at UF. My youngest son is a Jr. at Lake Howell High school.

I do remember your sister Nancy. Sounds like she is doing well as an educator too. She must have a special gift!

I'm not sure if I'm going to the reunion. My sister and I might just have to check it out. She lives a few blocks away, so she will probably talk me into it.

Well I hope to hear from you again soon. Let me know if you get any other info. Take care.

Beth

gayle busch murphy on January 18, 2009 7:26 PM

Yum..it seems my son found this site after an evening of reminescing about Florida and posted the previous message. I apologize for the errors...through should be throw....also, I had Mrs. Tate in fifth grade. I remember Coach Means and Coach McBryde from MJHS. Are they still around? Is there a Maitland Junior High School site like this?
Any info would be great!
Thanks,
Gayle

Tracy Matheson on January 23, 2009 8:10 AM

I am Dommerich parent whose son is about to graduate from WPHS, a daughter who is a freshman, and 2 sons in 2nd and 3rd grade. I wanted to make this group aware that Mrs Cassady who has taught at Dommerich for 24 years is retiring this year. She is the favorite of my 2 older kids and I am sad my younger son will not have the chance to have her. I thought it would be neat to see which of her former students might be gathered to honor her in some way as she is truly a gifted teacher.

Karen Finora on January 23, 2009 5:25 PM

Hey Yall!
I'm wondering where all my fellow Dyan Way neighbors are? You know who you are. Give out a shout, OK?
Karen Finora Davis

Diane Stockwell Chance on March 12, 2009 10:22 PM

Karen,
Do you remember Patricia (Trisha) Lafrenz or Cindi Shore?

I know where they are...
Diane

Karen Finora-Davis on March 25, 2009 5:24 PM

I remember Cindi Shore. Any other info you can share?

Angela DeParis on April 14, 2009 7:02 PM

Hey Karen... Well here we are ....Dyan Way was a great place to grow up!! I think I have Ron and Earnie talked into coming Greg will be busy that weekend. I'll keep at them. Really looking forward to it! Such simple times weren't they? Angela Brady DeParis

Dean Harisis on January 26, 2009 1:55 PM

The Great Escape

During World War II, a bunch of captured U.S. and British POW’s dug several tunnels out of a Nazi prison camp. The story of their exploits was later chronicled in a book called The Great Escape, and many may recall a movie by the same name starring Steve McQueen.

Well, Dommerich Elementary had its own “Great Escape” and you had to have been a student in the Spring of 1973 to have witnessed it (or experienced it, if you were brave enough). One of my classmates (and still best friend to this day) Keith Blackway, had a plan. Keith was one of those guys that never waivered to be the first over a wall or to try something that had a high probability of landing him in the Principal’s office. Simply said, Keith had guts.

Back in those days, there was a fairly deep drainage ditch that followed Thistle Trail along the school’s recess area and playgrounds. Keith figured out that if you could find a way into that ditch without getting caught, it presented a perfect blind spot for any teachers that were assigned guard duty during morning recess (we were 5^th graders at the time). You would essentially be invisible in that ditch!

Keith had great access to the school, as his family lived right down the street on Choctaw Trail. One weekend he decided to dig a big hole under the chain link fence that bordered the recess area. He even strategically dug the hole toward the very end of the fence, close to the car entrance off of Thistle.

When Monday rolled around and we took our morning recess, Keith decided to test his theory. A bunch of us formed a human wall in front of the fence to shield him, and when we all felt that the teachers were distracted with other matters, he ducked under the fence and headed down the drainage ditch without being seen!

Oh, it gets better. There was also a large drainage pipe that ran under Thistle Lane, about 50-75 feet from where the hole was dug and it was toward the playground area. Going into the ditch and then climbing back up to the recess area was only the beginning. Soon several kids, usually one at a time, would duck under the fence, down along the drainage ditch then THROUGH THE PIPE under the street! The goal was to get to the other side of the school, pop up, give a quick wave to everyone in the recess area (to prove you had the guts to go all the way under), and then race back before you got caught!

Every now and then someone would tattle-tale on another while they were in the pipe (!). And of course, there were several that got caught, including one memorable moment when there was a mass break-out and I recall 4-5 people getting nailed in one sweep. It was usually an instant visit to Principal Willis’ office for these infractions. As for me? I did it twice and got caught once (in the ditch part). I ended up getting “recess detention” for something like a week, which meant standing/sitting along the exterior wall of the school during recess and you couldn’t talk to anyone nor play. And it was worth it!

What’s ironic is that despite a complete crack-down on the activity, the actual hole remained for a long time thereafter. That ditch is long past gone and now grassed over, and more recently the recess area was dug up for a retention pond. But in the Spring of 1973 the recess area was more than a place to spend a 15 minute break in the morning. It was Stalag 13 to the Class of 1974, and guys like Keith figured out a way to break out of it!

Steve Kleiman on February 28, 2009 10:43 AM

Dean, I remember it well. When we would get bored with just crossing the street and waving to our friends on the other side, we would venture out a little further into the woods, and return just in time for recess to end. I had my share of recess detention, also. Fun stuff.

Melissa (Missy) Lerman on February 24, 2009 12:49 PM

I saw this on the internet and it reminded me of Dommerich days. Wow, have times changed.........

SCHOOL - 1957 vs. 2007

Scenario :

Jack goes rabbit shooting before school, pulls into school parking lot with rifle in gun rack.

1957 - Vice Principal comes over, looks at Jack's rifle, goes to his car and gets his rifle & chats with Jack about guns.

2007 - School goes into lock down, Star Force called, Jack hauled off to jail and never sees his ute or gun again. Counsellors called in for traumatized students and teachers.

Scenario:

Johnny and Mark get into a fistfight after school.

1957 - Crowd gathers. Mark wins. Johnny and Mark shake hands and end up buddies.

2007 - Police called, SWAT team arrives, arrests Johnny and Mark. Charge them with assault, both expelled even though Johnny started it.

Scenario:

Robbie won't be still in class, disrupts other students.

1957 - Robbie sent to office and given 6 of the best by the Principal. Returns to class, sits still and does not disrupt class again.

2007 - Robbie given huge doses of Ritalin. Becomes a zombie. Tested for ADD. School gets extra money from state because Robbie has a disability.

Scenario :

Billy breaks a window in his neighbor's car and his Dad gives him a whipping with his belt.

1957 - Billy is more careful next time, grows up normal, goes to college, and becomes a successful businessman.

2007 - Billy's dad is arrested for child abuse. Billy removed to foster care and joins a gang. State psychologist tells Billy's sister that she remembers being abused herself and their dad goes to prison. Billy's mom has affair with psychologist.

Scenario :

Mark gets a headache and takes some aspirin to school.

1957 - Mark gets glass of water from Principal to take aspirin with.

2007 - Police called, Mark expelled from school for drug violations. Car searched for drugs and weapons.

Scenario :

Pedro fails high school English.

1957 - Pedro goes to summer school, passes English and goes to college.

2007 - Pedro's cause is taken up by state. Newspaper articles appear nationally explaining that teaching English as a requirement for graduation is racist.

AFRE files class action lawsuit against state school system and Pedro's English teacher.. English banned from core curriculum.

Pedro given diploma anyway but ends up mowing lawns for a living because he cannot speak English.

Scenario :

Johnny takes apart leftover firecrackers from 4th of July, puts them in a model airplane paint bottle, blows up a bullant nest.

1957 - Ants die.

2007- Star Force, Federal Police & Anti-terrorism Squad called. Johnny charged with domestic terrorism, Feds investigate parents, siblings removed from home, computers confiscated,

Johnny's Dad goes on a terror watch list and is never allowed to fly again.

Scenario :

Johnny falls while running during recess and scrapes his knee. He is found crying by his teacher, Mary. Mary hugs him to comfort him.

1957 - In a short time, Johnny feels better and goes on playing.

2007 - Mary is accused of being a sexual predator and loses her job. She faces 3 years in Prison. Johnny undergoes 5 years of therapy.

Robert Belvoir on May 7, 2009 11:25 AM

That was so funny and so true. It was great seeing you, Melissa.

Caroline Webber on February 26, 2009 9:02 PM

If the following people are out there, let me know if you are attending:would love to see you!
Big Bend Trail-David Schack, Doug Dew, Brad Long, The Koshars-Jan, Jon, and Jennifer, Eric Seibert, Sorensons, The Wrights-Donald, David, and Jill. Susan Midol, and of course The Smarts!
Other friends-Tracey Cox, Julie King, Page Purcell, Ellen Roche, Robin Hampton, Sally Shepard, Eileen Daspin, Michelle Herman, Ellen Titan and Karen Sisk.
Thank you to the organizers! Caroline

Jeri Mooney on March 18, 2009 1:13 PM

Hey, Caroline.
There is at least one Smart registered on the site, but I think there are more just not on the blog. Not sure if I can make it just yet, but have not ruled it out.

Jeri Smart

Caroline Webber on March 24, 2009 2:16 PM

Hi Jeri!
Bonnie and I are going to attend this. Should be fun. Encourage the other Smarts to go. I think my mom wants to be there also!

Dori Staudt Ordos on March 2, 2009 11:42 PM

Hi Mary Ann Hutchinson...

This is Dori Staudt from Minnehaha Circle..I used to hang out with you and Ginger Turnbull and others from MJHS...If you remember me, drop me an email!!!

Mary Ann Hutchinson Ryan on March 12, 2009 12:17 AM

Dori,
I do remember you! I just emailed Karen Erdman last week...and I stay in touch via Christmas Cards with Gail Gustafson Lake (do you remember Jim Lake?). The four of us ended up at Florida Southern College together after high school, though those three went to Edgewater and I went to WPHS. Happy Birthday coming up...is your b'day the 19th or the 26th???? I remember having joint b'day parties with You, Karen, Gail, Me and somebody else since we were all in classes together and all had b'days in March. Mine is today! 49years...wow!

sandy on March 8, 2009 12:46 AM

Who remembers from Maitland Jr. High the Maitland Civic Center Dances??????

Mary Ann Hutchinson Ryan on March 12, 2009 12:20 AM

I remember the dances!  Didn't we also have some in the Maitland Public Library?  oh...and my birthday was the 11th, Dori Staudt...I didn't realize the time.

Mary Ann Hutchinson Ryan on March 12, 2009 8:45 PM

I meant...didn't we have some activities at the library?

martha ballantyne wells on May 12, 2009 11:14 AM

i remember the maitland civic center dances and how i had to beg to go.. i remember mrs. voke if it wasn't for her i would not have the love for reading that i have. the people that stand out in my mind are martha boone, sandy peisner?, margaret batten... how about the lady on tuscaroara that had the halloween cauldron and caramel apples in her garage, that was neat...

Lynda Mogul on May 16, 2009 4:32 PM

Hello...

I definitley remember the dances @ the Center. The lady that dressed up asa witch and had the cauldron and made caramel apples was my accross the street neighbor Mrs.Meagher. I grew up did my siblings with her children.

Do you remember going to the house on Halloween where you had to sing in order to get candy? That was my house.

Lynda

Dean Harisis on March 11, 2009 9:16 PM

Achieving Critical Mass

It's mid March now, and as I write this with roughly six (6) weeks to go before the big day, our Classmate Sign-up section has grown to an incredible 46 PAGES!

A small group of us started the process a little over one year ago. We had a common vision and we shared that common vision with good people that, quite honestly, may not have fully understood it at the time! And to now see over 450 alumni of an elementary school take the time to log in here just confirms what we knew all along: that others share our passion.

What I'd like to know is "Where are the other 4,xxx that have visited here and are interested in attending one of the functions, yet didn't take the time to sign in?" We are covering well over 40 years of graduating classes at Dommerich. 40 x 30/class x 3-4 classes per year = conservatively 3,600 graduates and arguably closer to 5,000 over that time period. A teacher at Dommerich taught me that basic math...I owe a debt of gratitude to Mrs. de Guehery for the basic addition principles and I'll give credit to Miss Landers and Mrs. Taylor for handling the tougher multiplication and division components.

Everyone that reads this entry has a job to do....to attempt to reach out to the 4,500 that haven't seen this. Or that haven't even bothered to sign in. Or that don't even have a clue what is in store on May 2nd. We only have one shot at this event, then the old school will be gone by the end of Summer. GONE. LEVELED. Just like the old oak trees.

WE LIT THE FIRE. IT'S UP TO EVERY DOMMERICH CHIEF TO DETERMINE JUST HOW FAR AND WIDE IT SPREADS.

See you on May 2nd...and don't forget to bring a kickball.

-Dean

Diane Chance on March 12, 2009 10:20 PM

Does anyone know where Nancy Johnson is? She was at Dommerich until 1974. Last time I talked to her she was Nancy Johnson Wolf.
I would love to get in touch with her. She was living in Winona, MN.
She had an older brother Patrick.
Diane

Susan 'Johnson' Bowman on April 27, 2009 11:59 AM

Hi Diane -

I don't know if you remember me, I'm Nancy's little sister. Nancy is is now living in Fargo, ND with her family. And our oldest brother Pat is now a Colonel in the Air Force and working at NATO in Brussels and Rob is a police officer for a Minnepolis suburb. We were all together this past week and the Dommerich reunion came up, We were all saying how much fun it would have been to go back for it. Unfortunately, our father is not well so we are staying close to home if we can. I will let Nancy know you were asking about her. I'm sure she would love to hear from you.

Have fun at the Reunion, we wish we could be there.

Susan 'Johnson' Bowman

Rhonda Mims on March 23, 2009 3:27 PM

Domerich Hills and Domerich Elementary were the greatest place to be growing up. I moved to Maitland in 1969, in the middle of the 3rd grade. Everyone picked me to read because I had such a southern accent, being from South Carolina....I read pretty darn good to this day. I remember kick ball and movies and girl scouts. Laurie Parsons and I would ride our shwinn chopper bikes to school everyday. Man those were the days. I had to leave and move back to South Carolina in the 7th grade and I missed everyone so much. We did a Micky Mouse concert where we wore the shirts and the hats. I still have my shirt and can't believe I was that small. Had a lot of orange fights too with boys. Sorry though can't remember my teachers names. Can anyone help?

Rhonda Mims on March 23, 2009 4:38 PM

Does anyone remember the Caldwell boys? They were triplets. Chris, Jeff, and one more...

Caroline Webber on March 24, 2009 2:20 PM

They were the only triplets in the neighborhood. This was in the days before multiple births. Their sister was in class of 70 I think.
One of the Caldwells is registered.

Dean Harisis on March 25, 2009 2:27 PM

Rhonda, the "third" Caldwell triplet you are alluding to would be "Tim." I played Senior Little League with him...we called him "Mit" because he was our catcher and, well, it just worked. I ran into him and I believe Chris at a funeral a couple years back. Interesting that we haven't seen any of them sign up...hopefully they can make it. In Little League circles they batted 2nd, 3rd and 4th, so they quickly gained notoriety as "the triple threat." -Dean

Dean on March 25, 2009 2:29 PM

I stand corrected...Jeff did sign-in and indicated he will be there. I hope he drags his brothers with him.

Bydelle Brown on April 15, 2009 10:11 PM

Rhonda,
Are you related to David Mims? He didn't actually go to Dommerich because his family moved to Maitland when he was in jr. high. But he attended Maitland Jr. High and Winter Park High School. I know he was from South Carolina and moved back there before his senior year, so I was wondering if he is an older brother or something.

Rhonda Mims on May 20, 2009 6:15 PM

Hi,
David is my older brother. He now lives in Seattle, Wa.

Thanks,
Rhonda

Caroline Webber on March 24, 2009 2:18 PM

Okay --Classes of the 60s-75 Let's see a good turn out.
Also we are planning to go out somewhere afterwards. Stay tuned for details. Pass this website on to your friends!

Ashley Daniels on March 29, 2009 9:03 PM

Hello Class of 1981!
I was Ashley Hoffmeister way back then. My 6th grader son, Patrick, and I cannot wait for the reunion! I will be so proud to have him standing next to me at the reunion; both of us Dommerich graduates. My 4th grader son, Harrison, will be singing with the chorus for your pleasure. I am glad to hear that Mrs. Hotaling will be there! :)
Our daughter, Lillian, is in kindergarten at Dommerich. She LOVES school!
I love reading all of the comments above; the streets that you lived on; the memories that you made in our neighborhood. We live on Shawnee Trail. Our children walk to school every day; life is good here in Maitland.
I am on the Merchandise Committee on Dommerich's PTA. Bring your checkbooks; we will have a limited number of cool Dommerich t-shirts for sale at the reunion.
See you all in May!

Bill Brown on March 31, 2009 10:34 PM

I'm so happy to see all the effort to put together this reunion. Unfortunately, I don't see any names during the early days of Dommerich...1965-66...I was in the 5th and 6th grades. Are there any alums from that time out there?

Kevin McKechnie on April 1, 2009 8:12 AM

Bill,
There's a page of alumni from 1966. Go to the classmate sign-up page and sort by year. Good luck.
Kevin
Dommerich Reunion Commitee

Kathy Weller on April 1, 2009 9:25 AM

Dommerich Elementary was so much more than a school to me, as my mom taught 6th grade there for many years. A lot of the teachers were friends of the family... especially Jane Coates, who died in 1999, and the irrepressible Carolyn Voke, who I hope to see at the reunion. My brother Frank and I used to have a great time in mom's classroom in the mornings before school, throwing those bouncy rubber balls at each other with surprising little destruction... for us, anyway. Loved Mrs. Voke's  Enrichment class and the kids I spent 5-6th grades with there!

Geri Everbach on April 7, 2009 10:05 AM

I transferred to Dommerich the first year it opened, from Park Avenue Elementary. The teachers I had were: Mrs. Aufhammer, Miss _____? and Mrs. Weller. The students I remember included (excuse spelling errors): Simmie Bresnick, David Gilbert, Tucker Byrd, Bydelle Satterwhite, Katie _____ , Clark Angel, Sean O'Kelly, Maureen Meagher and Tori Evans.

My mom was an early PTA president and had a big role in planting (and watering) those trees.

I was a patrol. I still remember lining up to get weighed every year. Hope they don't still do that anywhere!

Oh and who else remembers the famous birds and the bees movie days?

Geri Everbach on April 11, 2009 7:31 AM

Miss Brinkley....that's the teacher I couldn't remember!  I think I had her for fourth grade.....the first year Dommerich opened.  But it might have been fifth......

Geri

Bydelle Satterwhite Brown on April 15, 2009 10:14 PM

Hi Geri. I actually replied to you in a separate comment instead of hitting reply on your blog. Please look for it. Thanks.

William Cisco on September 21, 2009 5:57 PM

My last name then was LeBruno. I had Mrs. Brinkley and I remember Tori Evans very well. I had a major crush on her and one of the happiest days of my early life was a day off from school spent hanging out and ridding our bikes all over Dommerich Estates. I used to live on Mohichan Trail.

Those were the days!

Kevin McKechnie on April 8, 2009 4:50 PM

I was thinking the other day about some of the things we used to do at Dommerich, and three things came to mind. One was the annual trip to see the Florida Symphony play at what used to be called the Orlando Municipal Auditorium. We were always told what a privilege it was to be able to go see them play, but riding the bus there was equally as fun. Because most of us walked or biked to school, the bus trip was a rare treat.
Another good memory was when the Central Florida Fair was held, and school would let out at noon so we could go see it. I'm sure the fair is still held each year, but I doubt anyone at the school notices. This was all before Disney, when home-grown entertainment was enough to make people happy, and you didn't have to pay $10.00 to drive into the parking lot.
Finally, Skate City must be mentioned. Sadly, it's long gone. But for those skaters who did the "Hokey-Pokey", or those who watched thinking how stupid they looked doing it, it will be long remembered as a one of the best places to spend a few hours after school.

Dean Harisis on April 18, 2009 12:21 PM

Kevin, these are all great memories.  Let's add field trips to thje Merita Bread Company.  At the end of the tour they would always give us a Mickey's Banana Flip, a banana bread frisbee folded over with cream filling in the middle. The best! Whenever I'm in town and driving by the factory on I-4, I still find myself rolling down my window and breathing deeply. Agghh! Right down the street from the defunct Skate City was the Longwood Pipeline, the only skateboard park in Central Florida during the initial skateboard craze of the '70's. I spent many an afternoon/evening there....good times and I somehow never broke a bone. Other notable places that are either survivors or gone include Colonel Photo and Hobby, Mall News (Winter Park Mall), the little bike shop on Maitland Ave @ Horatio, 'Lil 500 on 17-92 and a plethora of popular family restaurants that are no longer around (i.e. Ranch House, Bonanza steak house, S and S Cafeteria, Arthur Treacher's Fish and Chips....I could go on and on). Great stuff, Kevin!

Dean Harisis on April 19, 2009 2:16 PM

Blasphemy! How could we forget mentioning Sir Gooney Golf? Or Medallion Lanes? Or how about the original Gooding's market that had the best bakery in the entire area (still there but in unfit condition)? I'm surprised Jon Gooding hasn't stepped up and made a go of recreating it, again.

Caroline Webber on April 21, 2009 8:08 PM

Don't forget-The infinite Mushroom where you could buy black ight posters. Ronnies for the giant sundaes, Dipper Dan's for Bubble Gum ice cream.

Dean Harisis on April 22, 2009 12:18 PM

Infinite Mushroom! LOL...totally forgot about that place. Wow! And yes, Dipper Dan's was THE ice cream shop. And let's also add the Colony Theatre on Park Avenue when it actually showed movies. I saw "Tora! Tora! Tora!" there when I was at Dommerich...my first introduction to WWII.

I wonder how many here had parents that bought a car from Johnny Bolton Ford? Or Art (Swindle) Grindle's Wheel Ranch?

Caroline Webber on May 1, 2009 1:06 PM

And don't forget about Little Big Horn, and Custard's Last Stand.

Marianne Wittels on May 3, 2009 9:30 PM

Don't forget about the summer programs held at the Jr. High School. Monday was art classes, Tuesday was Skate City, Wednesday Bowling, Thursday, the movies and 1 Friday out of each month we had a huge trip to the theme parks. Remember the E ticket rides. There was also Circus World, Sea World and Cypress Gardens! Remember the water ski shows at Cypress Gardens? Are they still going on?

And...the there were a couple of other places I rememberd while reading your blog....Jack-in-the-box, theRexall Drugstore. Purple Porpoise, the Altamonte Mall, and packing a lunch to drive to the Wekiva State Park.

Sherry Fjelstad on April 9, 2009 1:54 PM

Hi Y'all.

Yeah. This is Sherry Fjelstad --yes , Scott Fjelstad's sister.
I have missed all of the good times over at Dommerich ( one of the original Chiefs), the days over at Maitland Jr. High. I did go to Winter Park High School -1974-1975.
I then moved to the Central part of California--about 30 minutes from Yosemite National Park.
I can say I learned how to roller skate at good ol' Skate City and learned how to ice skate on the California coast.
I have already made my reservations to see my " fellow chief" on the weekend of May 2nd.
I am currently working at a Jacksonville, Florida Publix. I am one of the last ones people see after their day of shopping.
I went to California to finish high school and continue my education.
I graduated as a Bullard Knight--Fresno, California.
I went to a couple of adult schools --office manager classes and then off to work at Fresno Memorial Hospital where I " volunteered" down by the E.R. room . I learned what " STAT ", " Crash Cart", " Code Blue" and what " Code Red" meant. I had to be a fast learner.
My parents and me returned to the central Florida area in 1979.
I then worked as a Microfilm Deputy Clerk--for Mr. Beckwith for a few months.
I then took a few months off and then return to " work" in a short amount of time.
Did anyone see the movie " Passenger 57"?
I was working on the " set " after the movie had finished up at the Apopka Telephone Company.
I also worked at caitering jobs --I served Bobby Bowden, Harry Gant, and Meadowlark Lemon at a annual Christian Breakfast in the Sanford area.
I have since worked at the Orlando Sentinel, a job ( receptionist ) at the old Moorings on 17-92 in Maitland.
I have also worked ( many ) office jobs in the central Florida area.
Back in April 1997 I lost my father--some of you might remember him going to see my brother play baseball .
My mom and I are currently living in the Mandarin area of the Jacksonville, Florida area--about 20 mintues from the Georgia/Florida border.
I currently am working at a Publix Grocery Store.
I work in the Front service area--we are the last people that shoppers see .
I hope to see alot of my class of 1970-1971.
Go Chiefs.
Sherry Fjelstad
Drop me a line-- I am on the student sign-up.

Angela DeParis on April 14, 2009 7:28 PM

Hey, Just had another memory 4th grade Mrs. Taylor class Tommy Beardon, who remembers him bringing a duffle bag to school??? It had snakes in it!!! Yes, he was asked to step outside the door for discipline. ! Lots of paddling in that class as I remember! Then in Mrs. Coats 6th grade...a girl name Nancy talking to somebody in Mr. Stover's class through the outlet she even stuck a pair of scissors in it and the sparks flew!!! Boy did she jump out of her seat....Mrs. Coats told her to GET OUT of the class and go to the Principle's office. Angela Brady DeParis

Dean Harisis on April 16, 2009 11:39 AM

Yes, the electrical outlets between the class rooms made for a great intercom system. We did the same thing between Weller's and Stover's. Classic!

Bydelle Satterwhite Brown on April 15, 2009 10:06 PM

Hi Geri Everbach,
I remember you. It was nice to see you mentioned me as one of the people you remember. I didn't see anybody else on the blog from our class except for Cheri Davis (that would be "graduating" from Dommerich in 1968). It's possible I missed someone. I kinda skimmed, looking for a name I recognized. I did see Debbie Sibley, who was a good friend of my sister's (Wendy).
I'm still in the Orlando area. Are you? I won't be able to make the reunion, however, because my son is graduating from college on that day in Lakeland. Are you going? I've been in contact with Cheri Davis some. Do you remember Cheri? She and I were in Mrs. Reese's 4th grade class together, the year we all moved into the new building. And I was in Mrs. Pence's 5th grade class and Mrs. Weller's 6th grade class.

Geri Everbach on April 20, 2009 12:35 PM

Hi Bydelle!

Cheri Davis' name is not ringing a bell for me. Debbie Sibley sorta does, but not sure.

I am not in Central FL.....married a yankee and have been in New England for years. My mom still lives in WP though, so I/we are usually down there at least once or twice a year.

Congrats on your son's graduation! My youngest is graduating high school in June......hardly seems possible.

And no, I'm not going to the reunion either, although I'd like to!

~ Geri

Betsy Wittels on April 26, 2009 9:37 PM

Hi Bydelle
I don't know if you remember me or not, but I lived across the street from you on Mojave. I am looking for your sister Alicia.Can you pass on my info to her. Thanks.
407463-4793
nothingbutcrown@aol.com

Sorry you won't be able to make the reunion!
Betsy

Karen Shader on April 25, 2009 9:17 PM

Hello I'm not a Dommerich grad, but built my own elementary school reunion website in 2003. It's still going strong! Just surfing out some other sites for new ideas

Best of luck with yours and enjoy! We've had 3 school-wide reunions so far... which were a BLAST! :) Feel free to visit www . mckayschool.com if you like

Our school was very small (one 1st grade class, one 2nd grade, etc.) and I think that has a lot to do with why so many of us still feel so close. My husband thinks I'm nuts but he went to a huge grade school... 2000+ kids so it's no wonder . Again best wishes to you all and take care

Karen

Ian Clement (Starkey) on April 29, 2009 12:33 AM

To Dommerich alumni, I found this site while searching for info on Dommerich Elementary which I attended for only part of one year. It was in the fourth grade in 1983. My name is Ian Starkey (now Clement) and I also attended with my twin brother Kris (Kriston) , and I was wondering if anyone knows a David and Christy (brother and sister, Christy is one year older) from school? They would have graduated in 1991 and 1992(3). I know the last name was something like Constantine but not sure if it's right. Thanks in advance for any response and for those who attend, enjoy the reunion. - Ian

Karen (Winckelmann)Browning on April 29, 2009 3:37 PM

Everyone from the class of 1976..........why don't we all bring pictures of us when we were at Dommerich so we can identify those of us who have changed somewhat? Julie Oling Valderrama-are you coming down here for the reunion?????? Some of us want to see you!!!!
I can't wait to see everyone!!!! Karen

Jim Roberts on April 29, 2009 8:20 PM

Lets see, Hill Elementary - 1st Grade [1960] Mrs. Smith, 2nd Grade Mrs. _?_, 3rd Grade moved to Maitland 1st Presbyterian Church Mrs. Bedford, 4th Grade moved to Maitland Elementary & Jr. High School Mrs. Pietkiewicz!, 5th Grade Mrs. Pence, 6th Grade Mrs. Hinson and move with class into the new Dommerich Elementary 1965 -1966 building....then right back into the old building for Maitland Jr. High...
I'll be thinking of my $1.00 square foot of concrete where I etched my hand print and signature, when it is demolished this summer in front of the Jr. High cafeteria, ....

Caroline Webber on May 1, 2009 1:09 PM

Many of us from Class 1970 are going to Dexter's in Winter Park after the reunion! All are welcome to join us!

Maria on May 1, 2009 3:23 PM

Jill (Neri) Dempsey, In reading the blogs I noticed you mentioned Mark Cotter. I work with his sister at the City of Maitland.

Dean Harisis on May 3, 2009 7:18 AM

Mission Accomplished

To all that made the effort to attend even a few moments of the festivities at Dommerich Elementary School and the Maitland Baptist Church yesterday, I tip my cap and say "thank you" for stopping by. You benefited from a historic gathering of former school administrators and teachers, as well as more smiling alumni faces in one place than even Disney World would have difficulty imitating. Just to spend a moment with someone that you had not seen for a long time (for many in attendance that meant 30+ years) was truly special and a gift.

For those classmates that were local and chose not to stop by (and those that did will back me up on this), you simply skipped the wrong event. 'Nuff said.

And for many out-of-staters that simply could not manage the logistics, we dearly missed you all and hope that the photos that others share and post to the Photos pages on this web site will take some satisfaction in knowing that you were all missed and thought of.

This web site, under the leadership of Kevin McKechnie ('69) and Marianne Wittels ('74) will continue to live on. You will see some minor changes coming forrth, as the purpose of this portal will become more Dommerich Alumni Association oriented.

If you have photos (thousands were snapped), then please take a moment and post them. If you attended the events but never took 3 minutes to register yourself on the Classmate Sign-up page, then PLEASE do so.

Speaking on behalf of the entire Dommerich Reunion Committee, we hope that everyone had a grand time and we thank you for making this one-time event a true success story that will be talked about for a long, long time.

Best regards,

Dean Harisis
Class of '74

Karen Finora-Davis on May 3, 2009 3:19 PM

Dean...a job very well done to you and the committee, for yesterday was a day full of smiles, laughter, and old & new memories. Thank you for yall's forsight and endless hours of hard work!

Robert Belvoir on May 7, 2009 11:39 AM

Thank you Dean, Sue, Kevin, Marianne, Keith, and everyone else for giving us time to recall our memories ad talk with old friends. My 19y/o daughter was with me and learned some more about me. It was just a great day.

Scott Fjelstad on May 4, 2009 8:14 PM

Hope everyone had a great time. Wish my wife and I could have been to the party. Had business travels during the event. My vavorite teacher was Mrs Heileman which her son Greg is my brother in-law. Gregs wife (Jerri) is my wifes sister. Best part is I got married recently and had my first grade teacher Mrs Heileman @ my wedding. :) Scott Fjelstad

Missy Lerman on May 4, 2009 8:15 PM

I came down from Atlanta for the reunion, and had the most wonderful weekend. Thank you all for great memories and helping me hook up with long lost friends!

Sarah Burzlaff Bowers on May 5, 2009 9:15 AM

What a great time the reunion was. It was so good seeing so many Dommerich friends and classmates. Not to mention my favorite 4th grade teacher ever Mrs. Pietkawitz. I know I spelled it wrong. Mrs. Close and Mrs. Heilman my 1st and kindergarten teacher and we all know Mr. Mosley our PE coach. Tim McDonald and Mrs. Heilman were talking about when he fell off the top of the monkey bars and wound up in a body cast. I just remembered him having a broken arm. I remember the day it happened like it was yesterday though. Those damn monkey bars are still there. Although the great HOT 40 foot slide is gone. After school we would go down it on wax paper. We would fly!!! You just had to hope your butt or legs didn't get burned from the stainless steel metal baking in the Florida sun. Let's keep in touch everyone. I'm looking forward to my 30th WP reunion now!
Sarah

Keith Blackway on May 5, 2009 7:59 PM

Yes, what a great time seeing all those people. Bruce Albertson brought back some great memories and so did Dean and Charlie Beal reminding me how we "olayed" the cops trying to catch us in the middle of the night. Patti Gich was always as pretty as she was sweet, but it's not fair she got better with age! And of course the female rat pack looked great too(Lee, Loralee, Janice, Diane, and Patrice). Thanks to everyone for showing up and special thanks to Marianne Wittles for putting together this website and the slideshow and everything else she did to make this happen. I can't thank Glenn Hanson enough for forgiving me for the horrible thing I did to him way back in the day.

Keith Blackway '74

Sherry Fjelstad on May 10, 2009 6:58 PM

Hi Y'all,
This is Sherry Fjelstad from the class of 1971.
I want to thank everyone that made the reunion
memorable for me.
I have been working every day ( at the Jacksonville
Publix) since getting back Sunday, May 3rd.
I loved seeing my classmates--the ones that were older
( but still did not act their age).
To the Reunion Committee Members--Big Kudoes for all
you did.
I wish there was a way to get together once a year.
Now all we will have are the wonderful memories of
Dommerich Elementary.
Everytime I bring up the " scrap books" it brings a
tear to my eye.
I miss Maitland and all of my Maitland friends.
I want to say a big thanks to Mr. / Mrs. Heilman,
Jami Heilman, Jeanne McMullen and Anne Greenman
for letting me remember the " Dommerich Days with
them.
I sure hope people do keep in touch.
Can't wait to see all of the class years--I think we
did capture the moment in a lot of class years.
Now the school is gone and so are the memories.
Take care to everyone I saw--also--Ellen Titen,
Linda Mogul, Jerri Lichenstein,Seth Johnson, and
Pam Pores.
I had so much fun I did want to stay in Central Florida,
but with the economy the way it is that idea is out
the window.
A Fellow Cheif,
Sherry Fjelstad
11971 Swooping Willow Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32223-0837
Phone Number (904 ) 880-2986

Cell Phone Number :
( 904) 210-3842

" Let's Hang On to What We've Got"!!!

I had fun with my fellow " Chief's"

I live in the Mandarin part of the
Jacksonville area.
Love to see some of my co-chiefs when
you do have the chance.

LOVE TO ALL OF THE DOMMERICH ELEMENTARY CHIEFS!!!

Bye Bye for now,
Sherry Fjelstad

Kevin McKechnie on May 19, 2009 11:01 AM

Dommerich Elementary Needs Your Help

Dommerich teacher Sandy Hayes and her 4th and 5th grade students need your help. They are researching the history of Dommerich Elementary School, and the neighborhood we all grew up in. They would be very appreciative if you could respond to these questions, via this blog, so they could understand how Dommerich has changed over the past 44 years, and how it has reamained the same. The questions are:

"In collecting data we would like to know:"

year graduated
current job / occupation
What did you “WANT to be when you grew up?”
Favorite / funniest memory at Dommerich
anything remembered about lunch, clothing worn to school (fads), etc.
as an elementary school kid – do you remember your “free time” – how much, what did you do? (chores at home?) etc.

Thanks for your responses and Go Chiefs!

Dean Harisis on May 19, 2009 1:41 PM

GREAT IDEA, KEVIN! I'll kick this off with my own entry and hopefully many more will be received. Not sure if this will be spaced out properly or not, but here it goes:

- Year graduated: 1974

- Current job/occupation: Executive/Senior Manager for a Fortune 500 corporation

- Growing up I wanted to be a lot of things: professional baseball player, astronaut, fighter pilot. I was influenced by what was going on around me at the time (the Apollo moon missions, playing Little League, Vietnam war, etc.) The work that I do now is NOT EVEN CLOSE to what I thought I would be doing with my life. I really enjoy what I do and the people I work with, but I never really set out and actually planned it. It just sort of happened naturally. I realy didn't know what I wanted to do for a career until I was in the middle of my college program. So don't worry if you are not quite sure what you want to do...it will come around eventually.

- My favorite/funniest memory at Dommerich has to be when we dug a large hole under the fence and "snuck out" during recess. I wrote a blog piece above this one on how all that happened, so the details are there. That and all the fun we had either during recess or P.E. Those times are the ones that I remember the most even after 35 (!) years later, when we were out of the classroom and just having fun on the playgrounds.

- Lunch times were always fun because someone was always clowning around. Whether it was David Schwartz hiding a penny in his mashed potatoes so that the lunch lady operating the garbage disposal would find it (!), or stomping on milk cartons, there was always some fun to be had. Clothing styles were pretty much what you would expect in the 70's, and there are quite a few photos from 1973-74 posted in the Photos section of this web site. In fact, many of the bright colors of the early-mid 70's are now back in fashion! The Fads that I remember the most would probably be when skateboarding became quite a big sport. By 1977 we had our own skatepark in Longwood and it was not only popular then, but has lived on to this day (X-Games, etc.).

- Free time was definitely not spent in front of an X-Box or a Playstation! TV time was pretty much when it was raining outside, and then we just had 4-5 stations to watch. Mostly re-runs of popular situation comedys of the day like Gilligan's Island, The Partridge Family, The Brady Bunch, Get Smart, Hogan's Heroes and my personal favorite, The Three Stooges. Otherwise we were OUTDOORS all the time playing kickball, football, baseball, basketball or riding our bikes around the neighborhood. Also got in some fishing and swimming, too.

Chores were a whole another matter! I mowed grass in the neighborhood and received, on average $4-5 per lawn. At one point I had about 9-10 lawns that I was mowing on a fairly regular basis. I saved most of the money and bought myself a used car when I was barely 16 years old. I also bouight a lot of baseball cards and Slurpees at the local 7/11 on Temple, and I still have all the cards to this day! I also helped out a school friend with his paper route and would deliver Orlando Sentinel papers door to door (from my bike) twice/week. This was all done in spite of playing Little League, having my own chores around the house to do, school homework, etc.

Life in Maitland back then was much more quiet and I would ride my bike around the neighborhood quite late (well past 9-10pm) if I wanted to. There wasn't much a worry about crime, child abductions, and the like. Growing up in Maitland was quite amazing when I look back and think about it....we were fortunate.

My e-mail is on this web site. Please write me if you have any more questions...I would love to help out this class as much as possible.

Dean Harisis on May 19, 2009 1:47 PM

One more comment about how the school has changed or remained the same. After experiencing the Reunion about three weeks ago, I can honestly say that the interior of the school is largely THE SAME AS IT WAS BACK IN 1974. Quite incredible that the same chalkboards and pencil sharpeners that we used are still in place. The cafeteria and library still look the same, too. The exterior of the school is much more weathered looking, but that would be expected. Whomever built our school did a GREAT job!

Kevin McKechnie on May 19, 2009 1:54 PM

Graduation Year - 1969
Current Job - Technical manager for a manufacturing sales company.
What I wanted to be when I grew up - Airline pilot
Favorite memory of Dommerich - My friends and "Fun Day".
Friday's lunch menu was very predictable, and I can recite it forty years later: Fish sticks, peas, apple sauce, roll, milk and an orange juice bar.
Other memories - The Apollo moon missions were going on while I was at Dommerich We'd watch Walter Cronkite on launch day, up until the rocket was launched, then run out onto the playground to watch it head for space.
Free time activities - Going to a friend's house and riding bikes around the neighborhood and to the 7-11was something everyone did. If we could get someone to take us to the Winter Park Mall or Skate City (A skating rink near Longwood, that was a big bonus.

Samantha (Berger) Goodowens on May 20, 2009 5:11 PM

I completed the 6th grade in 1982.
I am a freelance commercial/t.v. producer/production manager. Which is what I always wanted to be!
My favorite memory was going to Mrs. Vogt's room for gifted once a week. To this day, when something really great happens, I'm often heard shouting out "WE HAVE A PASSER!"
I also remember working on CATCH UP ON THE CHIEFS and it was working on that T.V. show (if you want to call it that) that I decided that I wanted to work in television for the rest of my life.
As far as fads, I can't really say that anything stood out too much. I do remember all the girls had to have ribbon braided barretts and Guess Jeans that zipped at the ankles! I also remember being on the lower playground and watching the first shuttle go up.
I don't really remember my free time as much as I remember my teachers. Mr. Haynie. Mrs. Kaufman. Mrs. Vogt. And the retangular pizza on Friday's!

Samantha (Berger) Goodowens on May 20, 2009 5:13 PM

WHOOPS!

It was Mrs. VOKE not VOGT.... Sorry! She was the best!

Emily Jones Wells on May 20, 2009 5:52 PM

First off my three children attend Dommerich (5th, 3rd and 1st) so I have been fortunate enough to see all the changes that have happened and excitment of what is to come.
I graduated from Dommerich in 1982.
My current job is a full-time Mom.
What I wanted to be when I grew up was a teacher. Coming from a house of 4 girls we played dolls and school A LOT!
I have 2 favorite memories at Dommerich: Mr. Mosley pulling out our teeth at P.E. and playing Suzuki violin with Mrs. Hotaling for 6 years. My funniest is from 6th grade when things would get too loud my teacher would yell out "Ms. McCall is SPEAKIN!" (you had to be there!)
I remember IZOD shirts and shorts, wrap-around skirts, Tretorn tennis shoes and ribbon barrettes for hair that we made ourselves we fads at Dommerich. Lunch, they had square pizza and peanut butter cookies.
We had a TON of free time. We spent our afternoons swimming, riding bikes to our friend's houses or playing kickball in the street with the all our neighbors on Mohawk Trail (with the BIG hill)! Free time is a thing of the past.

Carla Poston-Scruggs on May 20, 2009 5:17 PM

year graduated - From Dommerich 1978, from WPHS 1984
current job / occupation - Event Manager for AutoTrader.com. Which means we interact with people at Auto Shows, Baseball games, Football games, and special event around the country. It sounds fun, and it is, but it also means I have to be away from my family about two days a week.
What did you “WANT to be when you grew up?” - A Doctor. But my dad made fun of me because I did not like watching people get hurt in movies, so I studied advertising and marketing in college.
Favorite / funniest memory at Dommerich - I was in the play Peter Pan and during one of our songs the entire set / backdrap fell down. EVERYONE was laughing!!!!
anything remembered about lunch, clothing worn to school (fads), etc. - hmmmm lunch. It cost 40 cents a day and I loved it when we had choclate milk and ice cream. We were allowed to wear shorts, but I liked dresses. Playing jacks was a huge thing and break time and one summer I saw the movie Grease 12 times and it cost $2 for the matinee. We rode our bikes everywhere!!!
as an elementary school kid – do you remember your “free time” – how much, what did you do? (chores at home?) etc. My only chore was to keep my room cleaned - didn't do a very good job at it though. I was in gymnastics and spent three days a week at the gym. I rode the bus to school and had to do my homework before I could go outside to play in the neighborhood. I was not allowed to watch TV until after dinner. We did not have computers or video games so we usually played football or softball or swam in each others' pools. My favorite TV show was MASH and I loved watching Bewitched reruns.

Stephan Adelson on May 20, 2009 5:26 PM

year graduated: 1974
current job / occupation: President, Adelson Consulting Services, Inc.. - Founder/Executive Director Internet Interventions, Inc. - Internet and Public Health Consultant, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors - Internet and Public Health Consultant, National Coalition of STD Directors

What did you “WANT to be when you grew up?”: A physcologist
Favorite / funniest memory at Dommerich: One of the most impactful memories was wathcing the NIXON impeachment on TV. I had no clue what was going on but it was great to get to watch TV in class.
anything remembered about lunch, clothing worn to school (fads), etc.: Bell bottom pants, tie dye teeshirts and warm rolls with lots of butter

as an elementary school kid – do you remember your “free time” – how much, what did you do? (chores at home?) etc.: I swam in the creek that is on Temple trail everyday (it is mostly dried up now) We would jump off temple trail (called snake run then) into the water - chase off alligators so we could swim through the tunnels they made in the underwater weeds and go face to face with Gar!

Betsy Wittels on May 20, 2009 5:47 PM

graduated Dommerich in1976

I am a hairdresser now, but growing up I always wanted to be a teacher.

The only lunchtime memories that I have involve trading food with friends. My mother did not get up to make our lunch, so we brought whatever we wanted....chips,twinkies, devil dogs, ect. so I always had lots of trading power.

As for free time, things were so different back in the day. We would leave on our bikes after breakfast, play in the neighborhood til lunch. Come home and have lunch, then go back out to play til the street lights came on. We would go to lake Minniehaha, catch tad poles, play on the playground ride bikes around the neighborhood, and play at friends houses. Back then we really didn't worry about getting abducted or hurt.

Robert Belvoir on May 20, 2009 6:02 PM

Year I graduated: 1974
Current job: computer programmer
What I wanted to be when I grew up? I'm not sure I thought about it.
Favorite memories:
In the 3rd grade, I was a racoon in the play of Bambi. I was incredibly cute...still am, too. ha
In the 4th grade, my teacher, Mrs. Pietkiewicz, would read to us: Me and Caleb I & II, Charley and the Chocolate Factory, and a few others. People living in a mechanical elephant? book.
Being sent to the office in the 2nd grade, paddled in the 4th grade, and to the office again in the 6th grade were not my favorite memories.
My favorite tv shows were Gilligan's Island and Lost in Space, but I was outside a lot riding my bike. I loved finding new trails in the woods, or in undeveloped areas around my house. I went down Temple Trail a lot and to the creek we called Snake Run.
I lived on Chippewa Tr and Halloween was crazy. There were so many kids in the streets. I had a pillow case full of candy. Even back then, we had to be careful about tampered candy.
In the fifth grade, my father bought me a minibike and I rode that around the neighborhood.

Elizabeth Hadley on May 20, 2009 8:26 PM

Year Graduated: 1998
Current Job: Full time college student
I always wanted to be a teacher when I grew up and the reason was having Mrs. Martin and Mrs. Bauer as teachers.
My favorite memory of Dommerich elementry was the kind staff. I will never forget the plays we put on by Mrs. Hoteling and field day with Mr. Ramos. Most importantly was the Harvest Hodown's were important to my family.
I dont remember any particular fads among my friends except for the spice girls and selling as much Sally Foster as possible.

Elizabeth Johnson Bergman on May 20, 2009 8:21 PM

I graduated from 6th grade in 1984
I am an assistant professor of aging studies in the Gerontology Institute at Ithaca College in New York
I wanted to be an architect
My favorite memory was traveling to Europe with Mrs. Hotaling's Suzuki group
I remember not liking the cafeteria food and bringing peanut butter crackers everyday for lunch; fads while I was at Dommerich included jelly shoes and parachute pants
Looking back on it I realize that I had tons of free time and I had a lot of fun. I played Legos and "house" with my girlfriends. I climbed trees, played kickball and other outdoor games with all of the neighborhood kids. I also did chores at home and practiced the violin.

Sue (Walker) Macchiarella on May 20, 2009 10:02 PM

GRADUATED: 1974 CURRENT EMPLOYMENT: Business Director for a United Methodist Church WHAT&nbsp;I&nbsp;WANTED&nbsp;TO&nbsp;BE: Oh wow...wanted to be an ACTRESS...still do :-) FUNNIEST/FONDEST&nbsp;MEMORIES&nbsp;AT&nbsp;DOMMERICH; I remember chasing a boy named Danny around the playground during recess so that I could kick his leg for bothering my friend. I remeber a boy named Robert who always ate bruised bananas. I remember a boy peeing in his seat in front of me and I&nbsp;remember not being able to tell time until later in school. One of my friends was crazy about Donny Osmond - she had all kinds of Donny Osmond posters. One of my favorite memories was when we would have Fun Day and doing the cake walk and other games. Also, at an auction held in the Dommerich cafeteria, I bought my dog, Busy, for $3.00. I thought I had bought the crown jewel. I was glad my family let me buy her. LUNCH or CLOTHING&nbsp;WORN&nbsp;IN&nbsp;SCHOOL: I am a girl, of course I&nbsp;remember. Lets see crazy socks were something, bell bottoms (ewww). One of the girls in school always wore petticoats that made her skirts float and shiney Mary Jane shoes (it was a bit different but she was always amazingly dressed). My mom didn't let me wear jeans until&nbsp; was in Jr. High (she thought it was not nice enough) so I always felt funny in the matching shirt and pants my mom made me wear. Sometimes I would hide clothes and change into them at school. We would wear dresses with sleaved shirts under them. I, and some others, would always wear shorts under our dresses because the boys would lift up our skirts if we were at the water fountain (bad boys). Lunch...milk cartons...lots of milk cartons, rolls, apple sauce, corn sometimes, peas another, it was bland. FREE&nbsp;TIME: Wow, I lived on a great street (2503 Saginaw Tr.) and the kids on the street and neighborhood would always get together and play kickball on the street or hide and seek. I also took ballet at Kip Watsons School of Dance and drama at the Edith Bush Theater. Mostly, I&nbsp;LOVED playing Barbies with my friends. I was Barbie CRAZY. I&nbsp;also had a Krissy doll whose hair grew. I also rode my bike all over - spend the nights were the best. We would always talk about the boys.&nbsp; Dommerich was a great school and ALWAYS will hold a special place in my heart. Maitland was a great place to grow up. Ohhhhhh, on my way home from school (on my bike) there was always an ice cream truck waiting to sell us treats.

Amy Milanovich on May 20, 2009 10:08 PM

<ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0in; "> <li class="MsoNormal">year graduated: 1980</li> <li class="MsoNormal">current job / occupation: Public Health Research & mom</li> <li class="MsoNormal">What did you “WANT to be when you grew up?” Lawyer</li> <li class="MsoNormal">Favorite / funniest memory at Dommerich: "Rappers Delight" contest with friends during recess</li> <li class="MsoNormal">anything remembered about lunch, clothing worn to school (fads), etc.: pizza, hamburgers & tater tots on Fridays, lunch was .40 - a quarter, a dime and a nickel, just milk was .10; rainbow jeans, jordash pants</li> <li class="MsoNormal">as an elementary school kid – do you remember your “free time” – how much, what did you do? (chores at home?) etc.: played with neighborhood friends</li> </ul>

Amy Milanovich on May 20, 2009 10:13 PM

Sorry - don't know what happened above!

graduated: 1980
current job: public health researcher/mom
Wanted to be: Lawyer
A favorite memory: "Rappers Delight" contests with friends at recess
Lunch/clothing: Pizza, hamburgers & tater tots on Fridays; lunch was $.40 - a quarter, a dime and a nickel...milk was $.10; rainbow jeans, Gloria Vanderbuilt (?) and Jordash jeans
As a kid, remember: Playing with neighborhood friends

Eric Biggs on May 21, 2009 9:09 AM

I believe I graduated in the class of '84. Seems right. I am now an Academic Librarian at St. Johns River Community College in northern Florida. Who knows what I wanted to be when I grew up. I'm kind of zen minded and take/go to things as they come. I certainly wasn't thinking librarian. As it turns out, I really like working in an academic setting. Keep your mind open, who knows what may influence later decisions. As for my time spent at Domerich, it had a lasting impression on me. I rode my bike to school every day, and of course home again. I wasn't really socially active, but I had a core set of friends, some of whom I am still in contact with today, and that made my experience a good one. For the most part, it was a happy time where I had some freedom, and yet was safe. I do look back at it with nostalgia. The same things that give daily aggravation seem to melt with time. We distill those out over the years. I am sure I wouldn't have seen things quite the same way if I answered these questions 20 some odd years ago. The trends were horrible when I went to Domerich. It was the '80's, and bad hair styles and ugly cloths were the norm. I remember Michael Jackson put out Thriller in that time frame and was a huge thing for a few years. Then it was Duran Duran and Culture Club. If you don't know who any of these groups are, count yourself very lucky :-) I personally found the music of the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton, and the Grateful Dead while going to Domerich, so I was basically outside of the normal trends of my grade. I still listen to those same bands today. Some of the cultural influences you pick up in this time frame of your lives will have lasting impacts, and some will pass along with the times. I remember the Spookgetti dinners, those were fun. I wasn't involved with much extra-curricular activities from within the school in this time frame. I was in Boy Scouts, Troop 625. I can only hope that troop is still as active today as it was in my time. I got to hike in the Smokey Mountains, NC, the Blue Ridge up in Virginia, and we even went to New Mexico once and hiked at Philmont. Actually I hiked there twice, but the second time I was 16, so that is a little out of the Domerich range. Beyond all this, I rode my bike and hung out with my friends. Also, I played soccer in the youth league. To close my pointless rambling, I don't have any one memory that stands out above the others. It was the whole that I remember, a time of my life before the gravity of adulthood was pressing down, and after the restriction of being a little kid was lifted. Home work wasn't intense yet, and I had time to play. For me the years of 3rd through 6th (back then Jr. High began in 7th) grades were close to being the freest of my life. I hope yours works out that way. My time after Domerich has been good as well. I have no real complaints, but 20 some odd years can really color your perspective.

Kaile Howell on May 21, 2009 10:38 AM

<ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0in;"> <li class="MsoNormal">year graduated</li> </ul> I graduated Dommerich in 1997 <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0in;"> <li class="MsoNormal">current job / occupation</li> </ul> I work at UCF at the Recreation & Wellness Center (Gym) <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0in;"> <li class="MsoNormal">What did you “WANT to be when you grew up?”</li> </ul> I remember really wanting to be a lawyer and even writing stories about it in Ms. Segal's 4th grade class <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0in;"> <li class="MsoNormal">Favorite / funniest memory at Dommerich</li> </ul> I have lots of memories, but the best were probably Ms. Hotaling's music class.  I remember being in the 4th and 5th grade chorus. <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0in;"> <li class="MsoNormal">anything remembered about lunch, clothing worn to school (fads), etc.</li> </ul> Haha, oh the fashions of the mid 90's....I remember loving pizza day at lunch! <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0in;"> <li class="MsoNormal">as an elementary school kid – do you remember your “free time” – how much, what did you do? (chores at home?) etc.</li> </ul> There was a fair amount of free time, we played outside a lot.  I went to MAC after school at Dommerich for several years, so that was fun.  I had chores to do, like putting away laundry and helping with the dishes.  I loved to swim in the summer and ride my bike.

Marianne Wittels on May 21, 2009 9:05 PM

I graduated in 1974

Currently I am disabled, but I went to school to become and accountant

When I was young, I was very athletic and wanted to be a professional athlete

I lived on Mojave Trail, the road that runs right in front of Maitland, back then, there was no track and no football field. Both track and football used the circular driveway to run their laps. One afternoon, the boys football team thought it would be fun if they threw rocks and sticks over the fence and they landed in our pool. Mom complained to the principal and the following weekend, most of the team were in our backyard trimming bushes, cleaning the pool, removing the sticks and rocks, etc. I never lived that down.

I remember on Friday we got orange popsicles. As for clothes, my mom taught sewing back then and during the t-shirt class she made me and both my sisters shirts out of the same material. 2 of us were only 2 years apart and sometimes we wore the same patterned shirt to school by accident.

For my free time in elementary school, we played dodge ball and kickball with all the neighborhood kids on Shawnee Tr. There weren't any cars driving up and down the street so it was easy to get a game going with all the kids in the neighborhood. If I wasn't there, I was on the basketball court practicing. We ate all of our meals together as a family, so each day we had a schedule of who would set and clear the table as well as do the dishes. My dad liked to work in the garage and build stuff, so I also would help him and sweep the sawdust so I could spend time with him and learn.

Just as an aside, there was a huge tornado that went through Dommerich while I was still in school, and we lost our garage roof. It ended up in pieces all over the Jr. High School courtyards and field. We became "the house that lost it's roof" for many years to come.

Good luck with your project.

Diana May on May 22, 2009 5:04 PM

I graduated from 6th grade in 1968.
Currently I teach 1st -4th grade technology in Canton, Georgia.
I wanted to be a teacher or a stewardess when I was growing up.
I have several favorite memories of Dommerich--
*an Easter parade
*ducking under the lunch tables for bomb drills
*dropping my marbles on the classroom floor & the teacher taking them up
*square dancing in the music room
*singing in the chorus
*and the ORANGE POPSICLES on Fridays!
One thing I remember about lunch (other than the popsicles) was extra rolls for 6th graders and kids selling Nestle Quick to teach other since all we had was white milk. I didn't like to buy lunch on Fridays because it was always fish!
As far as clothing goes, girls always had to wear dresses except for one really cold day and we got to wear pants. I also remember going to Baker's shoe shop and buying an "eagle purse" because that's what all the girls had!
For free time, several of our neighbors would meet out in the street and we'd play. We rode our bikes a lot. We'd go to the library often and check out books to read. In the summer we would go to the beach.

Selena Moshell on June 21, 2009 9:22 PM

year graduated - 1994
current job / occupation - Dancer in the North American tour of the Lion King on Broadway
What did you “WANT to be when you grew up? Well, that depends on when you asked me. Around my elementary school years, I think I wanted to be a marine paleontologist. (Probably because it had a lot of syllables... and sounded impressive!)
Favorite / funniest memory at Dommerich - Oh goodness, there's so many! I always loved the Harvest Hoedowns and Field Days, but being a patrol was really memorable too. (Oh the POWER those orange belts gave our 9-year-old-selves!)
anything remembered about lunch, clothing worn to school (fads), etc. - Well, Nintendo came out around that time, and at the MAC after-school program I remember us clamoring to play Duck Hunt and Mario Brothers like there was no tomorrow. Oh, I also remember slap bracelets (Which eventually had to be outlawed at school due to the metal within the bracelets that would bust out and cut us!) neon and backwards clothing, hyper-color shirts, and peace signs! Wow, true hey-days of fashion...
as an elementary school kid – do you remember your “free time” – how much, what did you do? (chores at home?) etc. - I remember having LOADS of free time, as I don't remember having chores. (Or at least if I did, I don't remember ever having done them! haha!) I lived across the street on Goldwater Court, right off of Dyan Way, which are two cul-de-sacs. I remember riding my bike pretty much any free time I had, pretending it was a horse! I also remember climbing trees in my front yard and pulling down leaves to play "laundry!" It was a strange game I played with my best friend and neighbor, Jackie Colby. We would fill up buckets with water, soap, and leaves, and wash rags and things for fun. (?) Kids will do anything to play, I guess!

Joel Peisner on May 20, 2009 5:38 PM

Graduated 1974

Currently work for The Home Depot as store Cross Merchandiser in Casselberry, FL

Growing up I wanted a job outdoors. Something with Forrestry. I still go camping, kayaking, canoeing and backpacking. Just never made it to college.

My favorite memory was being in a trailer in 4th grade, we had never seen a classroom like that. As far as dress, lol, I still dress the same, Levi's, a t-shirt and sneakers sometimes with a ball cap.
And I usually brought my lunch, it was a treat to eat the .35cent school lunch.

I am the youngest of 5 boys, we'd usually work together to finish our chores, mowing, weeding and cleaning the pool. Then we'd play outside, baseball, football kick the can until my dad would call us in. The TV was only on at night.

Keith Blackway on May 20, 2009 7:06 PM

Graduated class of 1974.
Current occupation glass salesman. I always wanted to be a baseball player and STILL DO!
My favorite memory was beating up the school bully Steve Singer and having him scream for help to Mr. Mosely the P.E. teacher.
I remember the funny bell bottom pants(those won't make a comeback).
Any free time I had was put to playing sports outdoors. Kids today need to get out and play more! I also mowed tons of lawns for chores and extra money.

Keith Blackway

joni russell on May 20, 2009 9:12 PM

Attended Dommerich through 5th grade and graduated from Lake Sybelia Elementary in 1971.
Occupation: Elementary School teacher.
Wanted to be: Elementary School teacher.
Funniest memory: ??? Nothing funny...but I remember singing "Mr. Bojangles" in the ensemble.
Lunch: hot rolls, chocolate cookies, and a pint of milk.
Free time: A lot more than the kids have today. After school we would swim or play SPUD and Red Rover. We met in large groups at each others house and played in the street until dinnertime.

Karen Kovacik Gisel on May 20, 2009 9:21 PM

Year Graduated: 1973
Current Job: Mom. I was an Administrative Assistive to a V.P. of Information Services (Computers) at a local hospital for almost 19 years. Enjoy both jobs.
I really didn't have any idea what I wanted to be.
Many laughs along the way, I remember the library - always loved reading - it takes you anywhere you want to go.
My mom always had us in plaid or flowered pants - it was very popular and she wanted us in the lastest fads - bellbottoms were big.
We definitely did not have as much homework. We rode our bikes all over the place - even to Park Avenue. Our parents really didn't know where we were all the time, we just knew to be home by 5:00 or we would miss dinner. My family moved to Thistle Lane when most of it was dirt roads and orange groves, 1957. Everyone played with everyone in the neighborhood, we all knew our neighbors. Really no one ever moved away. Have a great rest of the year.

Jacky Pence on May 20, 2009 10:50 PM

year graduated--1973
current job / occupation-Coach/Teacher/Volleyball Club Director
What did you “WANT to be when you grew up?” Teacher
Favorite / funniest memory at Dommerich-recess, playing kickball, being on safety patrol, square dancing for the PTO
anything remembered about lunch, clothing worn to school (fads), etc., Hot Rolls, Hot Rolls, Hot Rolls, girls always wore dresses or "nice" pants, no jeans. Hang Ten was the cool brand of shirt.
as an elementary school kid – do you remember your “free time” – how much, what did you do? (chores at home?) etc.--had to dust and vacuum my room every Thursday and keep my "section" of the yard weeded and edged. But as soon as we got home from school everyday, we played kickball or Spud for hours until we all had to go home to eat. We rode our bikes all over the place (nobody ever heard of wearing helmets) and we rode our bike often to the 7-11 to buy icees

Pat McKechnie on June 6, 2009 8:55 PM

· Year Graduated – 1970

· Current Job – I used to work for the US Postal Service in Sales. Now I am starting a new career.

· What did I WANT to be when I grew up? – In the early 1960’s I wanted to be an astronaut. That was when the space program was underway with the Mercury program. There were only seven astronauts and everyone knew them. I still think it would be fun to go into space. After that, I wanted to be a newscaster.

· Things that I remember about school

o Cinnamon toothpicks (these were toothpicks soaked in cinnamon flavoring). Some students would make these and sell them.

o Marbles – everyone had a marble bag and we played marbles often

o Clackers – Clackers was a string with a hard ball on each end. You’d hold the string in the middle and when the balls hit each other, they “clacked”

o The school carnival! “Trash & Treasure” was my favorite thing. Everyone donated things they didn’t want (their “trash”) so other people could buy it (their “treasure”). Also they had a “Cake Walk” where they had seats set up. They would play music and when the music stopped, you had to sit down. There was one less seat than players, so whoever was left standing was out. When it was down to two people and one seat, the person who got the seat won a homemade cake!!

o On Friday at lunch, they always served a Popsicle. It was either an orange or lime one. And the cafeteria had the best rolls!

· My other memories

o When we went to school, summer was three months long! June, July and all of August. It was great!

o We would go all over the neighborhood to play with friends. We’d ride our bikes and spend all day there until it was time to go home.

o Lots of kids would walk from their house to the convenience store on Horatio and Temple. We’d look for soda bottles while we walked and we’d get a nickel for each one we turned in. Then we’d have money to buy candy.

o Back in the ‘60’s, Disney World wasn’t here. We’d go to Six Gun Territory in Ocala which was a great theme park based on an old west town. We’d go to the Colony Theater on Park Avenue to see the Summertime Fun Show. The Colony had one screen and a balcony. In the summer, they’d have a matinee movie for kids.

o There was also a five & dime store on Park Avenue (that’s like an old-fashioned dollar store). One of the things that you could buy there was little turtles with paintings on their shell. Now we know that’s not good.

o Back in 1962-63, all the neighborhoods in Dommerich were just being built. They were still building houses when we moved in and construction was happening all over.

o Walking to school down the “big hill” on Mohawk. It was about a mile to school, but everyone walked or rode their bike.

Sherry Fjelstad on June 20, 2009 12:02 PM

Hello fellow chiefs,

Please don't let the good times go by the wayside like
Dommerich did.
I miss all of the communications that everyone was
making.
I know everyone is busy, but let's keep in touch.
I am still working at the Jacksonville Publix on
Mandarin and San Jose.
I also found out that I am not the only Mandarin
Dommerich Chief.
Let's keep the ball rolling even if we may be
miles away.

Sherry Fjelstad
11971 Swooping Willow Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32223-0837

CALL ME--( 904) 880-2986
Please leave a message.

A fellow Chief that would like to know how the " old Dommerich "
looks now--and see how the one school looks.
If someone could upload a a view of the "old Dommerich"
and the new Maitland School I would love it.

Sherry Fjelstad

Sherry Fjelstad on July 20, 2009 12:51 PM

Howdy from Florida y'all.

Just had a nice chit chat with David Linder--class of 1972.
Thanks David.
Hope we can stay in touch.
You can e-mail and we can chat that way I will make sure
Scott gets the information you send me.
I am currently working at a Publix Grocery store in the Mandarin
area of Jacksonville, Florida.
I hope we can hear more from our classmates from Dommerich.
David, just click on to whatever site you want and you will never
" leave the computer".
Keep in touch ( via the computer ) for me it is easier.
Take the best of care.
A " Dommerich Chief"
Class of 1971.
Sherry Fjelstad
11971 Swooping Willow Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32223-0837
(904) 880-2986
And my brother Scott ( class of 1972) lives around
the corner from me .

" Rock On" former
Dommerich Chiefs!!

Sherry Fjelstad
July 20, 2009
Our boys went to the moon 40 years ago today!!!

Wiliam Cisco on September 21, 2009 6:08 PM

My last name was LeBruno then.

1966

Computer Consultant/Director

Lawyer

I remember playing kick ball with Ben Bowers and Ray Law. I was a tall kid for 6th grade but they were ridiculously large. Ray was already nearly 6' tall and had to shave.

I remember that in 5th grade it became common for a few of us (I was one) to buy candy at the store (especially Pixie Sticks) and resell them at school.

William Cisco on September 21, 2009 6:11 PM

Almost forgot, the last question.

I remember riding my bike EVERYWHERE. On the weekend I would head out after breakfast and then be gone till lunch, then gone again until dark. It was a different time, no way I let my 9 year old do that today!

I miss those times more than most could imagine.

DAVID CAVANAUGH on October 19, 2009 9:14 AM

HEY EVERYONE IT'S DAVID CAVANAUGH, CLASS OF 1979!!!

GO CHIEFS!! ANYONE A REALITY FAN?? I'M TRYING TO GET ON BIG BROTHER, HOPEFULLY SEASON 12.....

David Cavanaugh on October 19, 2009 9:19 AM

I remember growing up on Thunderbird Trail. My neighbor was Diane Stockwell Chance, Rob Hamilton, with his sisters Debroah & Lori,The De la hoz (Alex, MIke & Maria) The Grants, Bynums, then on Street behind Thunderbird Trail was The Walshs, Abrahamsons,

Rachel Foley on December 23, 2009 10:57 AM

Wow! My sister and I were amazed at this site. We were the McMahon family and lived in Maitland from the mid-70's to mid 80's. There were 8 kids and my dad was the city manager, so I and most of my brothers & sisters attended Dommerich at some point or another.

Such great memories... rectangular pizza on fridays, Mrs. Hotaling and the "Music time is over" song, going to the Altamonte Mall for Christmas chorus and of course the yearly "Spookghetti dinner."

We haven't lived there in the area for quite some time but it's amazing how quickly the pictures transported us back in time!

I wasn't in Mrs McCall's class but my brother was and he clearly remembers "Mrs McCall is speaking!"

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