The Joan De Arc Crusader

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Merry Xmas!

Wednesday, December 25, 1996

"Brag We Do Not"

Founded in 1968

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(BP) - All of Christendom is rejoicing today at the birth of the blessed savior, Jesus Christ, in a beautiful and touching outpouring of love, worship and uninhibited materialism. Here on JDA Avenue there is no trace of snow on the ground for the 34th consecutive Christmas, and no forecast for same. But the lively inhabitants of our street find many other festive ways to get themselves into the Christmas spirit.

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Bueker on Moon Valley High 20 year reunion ................................................................ Page A2

A new installment of the tiresome "Top 10 List" .............................................................. Page A3

Sports: The C.F.L. turns 25............................................................................................ Page A4

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ASMERRYCHRISTMASMERRYCHRISTMASMERRYCHRISTMASMERRYCHRISTMASMERRYCHRISTMASMERRYCHRIS

One hot and miserable weekend last June I had the singular honor of attending the 20 year reunion for the Moon Valley High School Class of 1976. This beautifully planned event (not) was held at the Tempe Buttes, a "resort" which happens to be perched precariously upon an outcropping of rather large jagged rocks just to the west of Tempe. If this location chosen by the organizing committee seems like a bit of a puzzler, consider this poser: Why would these people schedule the Sunday picnic at Cactus Park from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM? So as to maximize alumni skin cancer rates? It was like a test of survival. If you didn't fall off the mountain to certain death on Friday or Saturday night, you still had to brook prolonged exposure to intense solar radiation for several hours on Sunday. I skipped the burnfest, reasoning that all of the interesting and fun people would be too hungover to face a third day of partying.

I suspect that the problem with my reunion is a very common one. The organizing committee was a self-appointed group of people who were popular in school, usually by virtue of their being a cheerleader or sports star. Which is fine, except that such folks don't usually represent the brightest and most imaginative minds in a given class. It is these people who should be involved in planning and executing a class reunion, not the socially successful stuck-ups who cannot accept the fact that popularity in high school does not necessarily translate into success or happiness in life.

I do not for a moment believe it to be a coincidence that among the many reunion no-shows were some of the most creative and talented people in the entire class. Granted, some may be dead or in prison by now, but I would argue that their absence speaks volumes.

To then conclude, I actually quite enjoyed my high school class reunion, in spite of its exceptionally unimaginative and tacky character. There were a few very cool people there (counting myself). I do despair however dear reader, that the Moon Valley Class of '76 has taken its traditional posture of unconditional apathy too far. It's time to pay the piper. We need some fresh ideas in the mix for the next reunion in 2001.

But please don't bother me about it. I really don't care that much. _______________________________________________JDA

Last year marked the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Community Football League, the local sandlot football organization in which the Joan De Arc Cowboys were three time neighborhood champions. Started by Gene Harris right here on JDA Avenue, the C.F.L. lasted until the end of the 1973 season, when it at last disbanded. Our very own Cowboys dominated the league from start to finish, bringing much glory and prestige to our fair street. John Bueker, Chris Dickey, Thom Neff, and Glen Eide were just a few of the players who made the Cowboys a sandlot power.

The Crusader salutes these rugged warriors from the past, whose gridiron exploits will long be remembered here with smiling pride.

(BP) - Sprout, an obscure local rock band of the late 1970s, has announced plans to reunite for a one-time only appearance some time next year, the 20th anniversary of the band's formation.

Guitarist Jason Beaver confirmed reports from his Peoria home, remarking that he has "been in touch with all of the guys, and they just love the idea. We probably won't play any actual songs, but the band will be on hand to sign autographs and schmooze.

However, guitarist and brother Cecil Beaver, when contacted at his Phoenix home, said "I have no knowledge of any such band or any other related activity. I suggest that you not call here again. Goodbye."

No date or location has been set for the festivities. __________________________JDA