Ilion High School

Class of 1986

Alumni News

1986 Mirror Cover Ilion

 

Digitized Class Yearbook....

86 Mirror from the New York Heritage digital Ilion Free Public Library Yearbooks collection. Link opens in new browser tab. (added March 25, 2021)

 

Class Roster....

Class Roster, Officers and Honor Students, as published in the "The Mirror 1986", are available on the 1986 Class Roster page. (added March 5, 2022).

 

Class Historical Newspaper Articles....

     Newspaper articles about the IHS Class of 1986 (added March 1, 2020)

 

1986 Photo Album.....

Thanks to Angie Bottini Sayles for sharing some photographs from her photo album. Latest addition is from Joann Seymour Miller. Take a trip down memory lane with the Class of 1986. (November 16, 1999)

Homecoming King and Queen

Section III Championship

Varsity Cheerleaders

Graduation and 1985 Winter Carnival

First Grade - North Street School

 

1986 Facebook Group....

Facebook - Ilion High School Class of 1986.

1986 alumni and friends have an active group on Facebook called "Ilion High School Class of 1986".

Administrator of the group is Angie Bottini Sayles. (November 25, 2014)

Note - This is a public Facebook group which means anyone with a Facebook account can see the group, its members and their posts. However, you must have a Facebook account to access the group. Alumni without a Facebook account will not be able to see any of the posts.

 

Mott Marathon 2016.....

2011 Ilion Mott Marathon Winner - Max Koenig
2011 Winner - Max Koenig
(overall winner and men's division winner 4:40:41)
Ilion's Foreign Exchange student - Germany
Photo courtesy of Ilion Central School District

The 2016 participants will run the 26.2 mile marathon in memory of Jack Day IHS 2011.

"This year, celebrates the life of 2011 Ilion graduate Jack Day. Jack continues to impact the the lives of students and faculty in a positive and meaningful way. The Class of 2016 will embody his legacy and fighting spirit when they step onto the Central Valley Academy track on Thursday, June 9." Members of Jack’s family are also running as a team.

Event Date June 9, 2016 at 3 pm at Central Valley Academy Track.

Jack's mother, Patty (Vayo) Day IHS 1986 and Barringer Road School Aid is married to Tim Day, IHS 1981. In a related story, Patty shared Jack’s six-year journey from his initial diagnosis to his sad passing in August 2015. Jack Day’s brave tale sets the stage for the 2016 Mott Marathon. She hoped Jack's story would teach people to watch for the disease [melanoma], to take steps to prevent it, and spare others from enduring the sadness. In that hope, she finds her therapy." (March 25,2016)

 

Reunion Plans

The Class of 1986 will be holding their 20 year reunion this summer. We will be participating in the Doo-Dah Parade on Friday, July 21st. We will be holding a family fun afternoon at "All Fore Fun Mini-Golf" in Herkimer from 11am-2pm on Saturday, July 22nd. And, finally, we will be holding a dinner/dance on Saturday evening, July 22nd at 6pm at Twin Ponds Golf and Country Club in New York Mills.

We are trying to contact everyone via email and are still missing quite a few classmates. We are in need of the following email addresses: Bill Ashley, Michelle Boston Otero, Michelle Campo, Aaron Clark, Ann Clement Balsewicz, Jeff Clive, Ted Corriero, Chris Deyle, Kim Donnelly, Jon Dow, Sorche Fairbanks, Julie Fitch, Laurie Ferguson, Mike Frezza, Phil Gettle, Don Gilbert, Dale Gregory, David Greig, Julie Haines, Julie Jenson, Darren Kane, Harold Kellogg, Scott Kelly, Chris Kinsey, Vivian Knoblach Greenfield, Kevin Laymon, MIssy Malott Height, Missy March Roach, Ryan McCarthy, Jamie McEvoy, Steve McGraw, Molly Miller, Linda Montgomery, Mary Jo Moreau, Cari Mowers Maneen, Vasu Nanduri, Al Pestar, Ron Raux, Kathy Richards Robert, Cindy Robertson, John Rose, Tom Rowland, Tabby Snell, Bryan Tinkle, Robert Wakefield, Mike Waldron, and Eric Wood.

Please send any information that you have on these people to Angie Bottini Sayles at asayles@twcny.rr.com or to my home address at 63 State Street, Oneida, NY 13421. I can be reached at 315-361-4990. (modified April 19, 2006)

 

Griffith L. Green - Clerked with Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia

Griffith L. Green, is a partner in the Washington, D.C. office of Sidley Austin LLP. His practice has been divided between complex civil and criminal litigation and appellate litigation. He joined the firm following clerkships with Justice Antonin Scalia of the United States Supreme Court and Judge J. Michael Luttig of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. He graduated with high honors from the University of Chicago Law School, where he served on the Law Review and was elected to the Order of the Coif. Griffith received his B.A., magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. You can find Griffith's biography at the Sidley Austin LLP site. (modified November 26, 2014)

 

Scholarship Fund raiser..

The Dr. Jeffrey Seymour Scholarship Fund, St. Patrick's Day Dinner will be held on Saturday - March 16, 2002, at the Ilion Knights of Columbus, from 4 to 8 pm. A Boiled ham dinner will be served. Other events include raffles and entertainment provided by DJ Ron Clive. The dinner is sponsored by Jeff's friends and family. All are welcome! Jeff was a 1983 graduate of Ilion High School. He died unexpectedly, in a car accident, on January 6, 1997. (February 16, 2002)

 

Reunion Information.....

From Angeline Bottini Sayles, from Oneida, NY.,

"... Yes, we did have a 10 year reunion. In fact, it was last fall the weekend of homecoming. It was wonderful. We are still a very close knit class and keep in good touch. We are the proud class of the first Section III football championship team. I was a cheerleader, Homecoming Queen and Class President so all of these memories are very dear to me. Mr. Pannes reserved a section of the bleachers for us at the Homecoming game and we had painted a big banner that said "Class of '86". Last fall's cheerleaders even included us in the "whole school" cheer. We had a blast. Our formal gathering was held at the Knights of Columbus and classmates flew in from all over the country. We have had a 5 year, a 10 year and plan on doing an informal type 15 year reunion. I truly believe we are a "model" class. I'm working on forwarding a class list to Bill Ganey so he can include it on our class page."

"I'm very excited about this endeavor and would be willing to help in any way that I can to keep this site going... Good luck!"

Angie (Bottini) Sayles '86

 

Class of '86 Contact Person....

Angie Bottini Sayles, is the latest Class Editor to come on board. (August 8, 1999)

 

New Kids on the Block...

Bob and Angie (Bottini)Sayles are proud to announce the birth of their son Andrew Timothy Sayles. Andrew was born on March 9, 2002 at the Oneida Healthcare Center. He joins big brother, Steven Samuel (age 14 months). Papa and Grandma Bottini are already spoiling him and it adds another trip to Ilion for a first haircut! (April 19, 2002)

Bob and Angie (Bottini)Sayles are proud to announce the birth of their son Steven Samuel Sayles. Steven arrived 3 weeks early on February 2, 2001 at 1:56pm in the Oneida Healthcare Center. He weighed in at 7lbs and 2oz, 18 inches long. "Our favorite gift was a football from Pattie (Vayo) and Tim Day and family. The football was printed with 'Oneida vs. Ilion in 2018 - See You There'. We look forward to future ball games against Ilion!" (February 28, 2001)

On June 12th, 2000, the newest Timothy M. Day joined the family of Tim & Pattie (Vayo) Day, joining his brothers Jack (age 7) and Connor (age 3). They are doing their share to keep the Golden Bomber football squad and wrestling team strong in the future years. (November 14, 2000)

Holly Belfield Morris, recently gave birth to a daughter, Emily Marie, on August 17, 1998. Emily joins brothers Jay, age 3, and Jordan, age 2. Holly and her husband Gary reside in Fanwood, NJ. (November 14, 2000)

 

Condolences.....

 

Christopher Patrick Deyle, IHS 1986, age 56, of Ilion, NY, passed away on Saturday, July 6, 2024. Born on December 23, 1967, in Utica, NY, Christopher was the cherished son of Patrick and Peggy (Deuel) Deyle. A graduate of HCCC with a degree in Construction Management, Christopher spent 10 years working as an assembler at Remington Arms in Ilion, NY. He also contributed his skills at Clayton Homes in Schuyler and Tioga Construction. His passion for community involvement was evident through his active membership in the Ilion Snow Drifters Club, where he once served as treasurer. Christopher's love for NASCAR was well known among his family and friends, Chris was always there to give a helping hand for whomever needed it. Christopher is survived by his devoted wife, Lisa Deyle; his loving parents, Patrick and Peggy Deyle; his brothers Daniel Patrick Deyle and Steven Smaldone; his son Alan Annutto and his wife Natalie; and his half-sister, Sandy Brown. He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Cy Deyle and Mary Margaret Deyle. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Herkimer County Humane Society or the Ilion Snow Drifters Club in Christopher's memory. Arrangements are under the care of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home. (July 25, 2024)

 

James Edward McEvoy (Jamie), IHS 1986, went to be with the Lord after a brief illness on Saturday March 12, 2022. Jamie was born on March 22,1967 in Newburyport, MA to the late Edward and Sara (Skinner) McEvoy. He was happily married to his love, Katrina, since March 17, 2001. They married on their favorite holiday, St. Patrick's Day. Jamie graduated from Ilion High School, Class of 1986, where he was an outstanding athlete in football, basketball and baseball. Jamie's love of the outdoors brought him to Florida and a career in landscaping and lawncare. Jamie was a family man and had a very large family and group of friends. Anyone who knew Jamie loved him. Jamie loved his sports and the New England sport teams- The Boston Red Sox, NE Patriots, and the Boston Celtics. He loved the ocean, fishing, the beach and life in general. He was an excellent poker and chess player, taught by Fletch. Jamie was predeceased by his parents and his big brother, Chris McEvoy. He is survived by his loving wife Katrina and his siblings, Maureen McEvoy Webster (Ron), of Ilion, NY, Anne McEvoy Andersen (Lou) in Omaha, NE, Mary McEvoy Bittick (Jolly), of Sequim, WA, Lisa McEvoy Bernier (Walt), of Frankfort, NY, David McEvoy of Edgewater, FL, Zachary McEvoy, Daniel McEvoy (Courtney), and Kate McEvoy Edmonston (Blake) of Tennessee, Aimee Aloisio Cotto (Walter) of Ilion, NY, and his beloved step mother, Christine McEvoy. He is also survived by his loving mother-in-law Margie Harvey and her late husband Jimmy, brother's in law Joshua Barnum and Jessie Harvey of Painesville, OH. He was Uncle Jamie to his 26 nieces and nephews whom he adored. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. Growing up Jamie was fortunate to have 2 life mentors, Fletch and Goldie, he loved them so much and thank you for the love and guidance you provided throughout his life. He had very special friends in FL, Joe and Donna Thompson and their family, the Hagan family and so many other friends, too many to mention. He loved you ALL! For his Florida friends and family there will be calling hours on March 22,2022 at Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home, 1 North Causeway, New Smyrna Beach, from 4:00-6:00 pm. For his home family and friends Jamie will be going home for his final rest in New York. Services there will be announced at a later date. Baldwin Brothers New Smyrna Beach and Chapman-Moser Funeral Home, Little Falls, NY have been entrusted. (March 18, 2022)

 

Rebecca Michele Stockton, IHS 1986, 53, of Ilion, passed away on Friday, January 21, 2022 at St. Luke's Hospital in New Hartford. She was born on February 4, 1968 in New Hartford, the daughter of Bonnie Charland and the late Peter A. Stockton, Sr. and she attended Ilion Schools. She was employed as a Developmental Aide with the New York State DDSO in Utica for many years. She is survived by her mother, Bonnie Charland of Ilion; one sister, Kathleen and Ervin Hoskins of Florida; one brother, Peter and Michelle Bishop Stockton of Liverpool; two nephews, JD Brooks and Justin Brooks and one great-niece, Blair Brooks, all of Florida. Services for Becky will be held at a later date to be announced. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. in Ilion. To leave condolences for Becky's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com. (January 25, 2022)

 

Leanne Beth Esford IHS 1986, age 33 Rochester, passed away Friday, Nov. 30, 2001, at Faxton Healthcare, Utica. She was born June 3, 1968, in Ilion, the daughter of Timothy and Patricia Furrer Esford. Leanne was a graduate of Ilion High School, a 1990 graduate of Plattsburgh and received her master's degree from Nazareth College, Rochester. She was employed as a speech pathologist with BOCES in Batavia. Leanne was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Ilion, a former member of Ilion Triangle and past queen, a member of the Evening Star Chapter 82 OES of Ilion, a member of the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association, a founding member of Phi Delta and was very active with the Special Olympics. Leanne is survived by her parents, Timothy and Patricia Esford of Ilion; a brother and sister-in-law, Steven and Donna Esford of Ilion; a sister, Terri and her fiancée Paul Nichols of Clinton; a niece, Kaitlin; a nephew, Tyler Esford; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She also leaves many special friends. A memorial service for Leanne will be held on Monday, Dec. 3, 2001, at 11 a.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with the Rev. Robert Wollaber and the Rev. George B. Greene, officiating. Final interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery. Friends may call Sunday, Dec. 2, 2001, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the Herkimer County Special Olympics W.E.B. Complex, 352 Gros Blvd., Herkimer 13350. (December 1, 2001)

 

Bombers Buzz WebSite.....

Johna Waller Berger-Tallarico, Supervisor, email, Niagara Falls, NY, re-registered. (July 9, 2011)

Stacey Joyce Exum, email, from Westborough, MA, re-registered. (Mar 29, 2009)

James Stanley, Maintenance mechanic, email, from Salisbury, NC, re-registered. (Aug 15, 2008)

Ed Ashton, Principal Geologist, from North Syracuse, NY, email, re-registered. (June 6, 2008)

Lisa Klippel Randazzo, stay at home Mom, from Frankfort, NY, email, re-registered. (Sept 12, 2007)

"Hi Everyone! Just wanted to share with everyone our joy in adopting a baby girl on Dec. 5th 2006! Our son is now 6 1/2 years old! Life is great! Hope yours is too!"

Doug Moreau, TV Producer/Director, from Sauquoit, NY, email, re-registered. (Aug 10, 2007)

Dale Gregory, Nurse Manager, email, from Ilion, NY, re-registered. (June 27, 2007)

Barbara Jennings, Exceptional Children's Teacher, email, from Benson, NC, registered. (Oct 17, 2006)

Thomas Adams, a Corrections Sergeant, from Ilion, NY, email , re-registered. (July 14, 2006)

Randall Brien, Information Systems Specialist /Programmer, email from Zephyrhills, FL, re-registered. (July 14, 2006)

Suzie Fleming Smith, RN, email, from Orange Park, FL, re-registered. (Sept 10, 2005)

Joan Adams Gebo, social worker, email, from Mohawk, NY, registered. (May 28, 2005)

Leisa Paul Murphy, email, from Ilion, NY, sent news. (Jan 8, 2005)

"I thought I would check out the web-site again after receiving news from Angie about a possible reunion coming up. There hasn't been many updates since I was last on! I have wonderful news about my family. On November 3rd, we welcomed a beautiful addition to our family: baby Kiera Barbara Murphy. She joins her three older brothers, Shea-11, Braden-8 and Devin-6. They are thrilled to have a baby in the house and can't keep their hands off of her. I am on maternity leave from Barringer Road School. Life just doesn't get any better than this and I would give anything to be a stay at home mom. I like my job but would much rather be home cuddling with my baby.I hope all is well with everyone else."

Jeff LaGase, Teacher, email, Utica, NY, registered. (July 11, 2004)

Susan Anderson Hartley, self-employed, email, Longwood, FL, re-registered. (May 18, 2004)

Katie Cress Cline, stay at home mom, email, Ilion, NY, re-registered. (April 3, 2004)

"Hi, everyone! Just a few updates...last posted in 2000! - My husband and I will celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary in August! - On August 15th, 2002, we added yet another baby boy into our lives....Owen Gregory...he's the best! Our other children are now 19, 17, and 12 and are wonderful with Owen...yup, we waited 11 years for our final addition and boy was he worth the wait....he's great! - I've been lucky enough to stay home with Owen since his birth....resigning from my job as and office manager for about 7 years...best decision of my life! I wouldn't have changed any of it. - While being busy at home with Owen, my husband has been running his construction/home improvement business out of Otsego County. - We moved to Richfield Springs for about 8 months in 2003 (where my husband is from), just to turn around and move back to Ilion. My Dad passed away in 1995, and my Mom passed away March 2003......we moved back into the house I grew up in (parents owned it ! since I was 11 months old!). We are all happy to be 'at home.' - I have an updated email address if anyone would like to get in touch. Take care! " - Katie

Stacey Joyce Exum, Administrative Director, sent news. (December 23, 2003)

"I was married to David R. Exum on October 10, 2003, at Annunciation Church. Our reception was held at Harts Hill Inn. We are living in Norwood, MA. I am still with CPP Advisors at our new office in Waltham. I am the administrative director. David is an online producer/reporter for bostonherald.com"

Christopher Lawrence, Metal Worker, email, from Mohawk, NY, registered. (June 1, 2003)

Michelle Stone, email, Groton, NY re-registered. She is the the principal of Lansing High School, the town right next to Ithaca. (Feb 8, 2003)

"I just wanted to update the information on the website for everyone in case anyone wants to know where I am and what I am doing. I have moved to Newark, NY which is between Rochester and Syracuse. I accepted a position as assistant high school principal. My new e-mail address is mstone@wfmail.newark.k12.ny.us" - Michelle

Vivian Knoblauch Greenfield, from Ilion, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (September 28, 2002)

Suzanne Drumm, email, Manchester, CT, is attending the mega-reunion. (September 4, 2002)

Diane Pannes, email, Abingdon, MD, is attending the mega-reunion. (August 3, 2002)

Mary Coroniti Wychowski, Process Analyst, email , Penfield, NY, registered. (June 15, 2002)

"I just found out about this website from my mom. What a great way to keep in touch with friends! I have been living in Rochester for the last 11 1/2 years and love it here. I have been working full time for Paychex Inc. since 1990 (our founder and CEO Tom Golisano is running for governor of New York). I have held various positions with the company and am currently a Process Analyst. I have been married for 7 years and my husband Mark is a software engineer for Bausch and Lomb. We have a beautiful daughter Lauren who just turned 4. She is the light of our lives! I don't get to Ilion much but hope to make it for the mega reunion. I'd love to keep in touch with my classmates. If anyone is in the Rochester area, please look me up."

Chris Plunkett, Network Operations, email, Colorado Springs, CO, re-registered. see www.usolympicteam.com. (May 15, 2002)

Colleen Eldredge, Chemical Planner/Kodak, email, Chemical Planner, Rochester, NY, sent news. (May 9, 2002)

"Hello Class of 1986! I just wanted to write a quick note to update you with my new email address. It is 469641n@knotes.kodak.com. Please don't send me jokes or emails with attachments. This is my work address!"

Rebecca Stockton, Therapist, email, Ilion, NY, registered. (April 22, 2002)

Billy Ganey, Mailman, email, Ilion, NY, re-registered. (April 2, 2002)

John Des Champs, email, from Virginia Beach, VA, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (March 9, 2002)

Melissa March Roach, email, from Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (March 3, 2002)

Todd Lozo, email, from Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (Feb 28, 2002)

Joe Laura, email, from Chester, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (Feb 28, 2002)

Betsi Hartmann Bentz and Greg Bentz, email, from Jacksonville, FL, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 16, 2002)

Lisa Winslow Alexander, email, Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 16, 2002)

Stacey Joyce Administrative Directo, from Norwood, MA., email, sent news. (modified Feb 3, 2002)

"I am the Administrative Director for a small Biotech/Pharmaceutical consulting company in Framingham, MA. I've lived in MA for the past 10 years, but still find time to make trips back to Ilion to visit family."

Griffith Green, Attorney, email, Falls Church, VA, registered. (December 14, 2001)

Thomas Briggs, Safety Director, email, Port Jervis, NY, registered. (December 10, 2001)

Pattie Vayo Day, Stay-at-home mom, email, from Ilion, NY, sent news. (November 14, 2000)

"Hi everyone!!!! Wanted to touch base with as many of you as possible with regards to a 15 year class reunion. Can you believe it!?! Angie (Bottini) and I have been talking about trying to get something planned for next summer towards the end of July. We were thinking that we could tie it in with the 'Ilion Days' and just have it be a simple, casual and INEXPENSIVE weekend to get together. Everyone seemed to really enjoy the first night of our 10 year, just a get together at the K of C, so we were thinking of keeping it along those lines. ANY of you that are interested or have any suggestions or thoughts, PLEASE write to me. Hopefully we will have as great a turn out as we did 5 years ago. As for my life, I now have three boys and am stopping there. Jack is 7 and is in 2nd grade at Barringer Rd. School. Connor is 3 1/2 and Timothy is 5 months. Thank God I love my sports!! I am mostly a stay-at-home mom and love it, but I have also been subbing at the high school for the last 3 years. I really love it, but it's weird seeing so many of our old teachers. Hope to hear from many of you regarding the reunion. Take care!!!" - Pattie

Christopher Plunkett, systems analyst, from Evergreen, CO, sent news. (October 29, 2000)

"Another update. I'm working as a senior systems analyst for Federal Express at the Denver Tech Center. If anyone needs a place to crash while in Colorado, give me a call at 303-679-8166. I got ahold of some old friends from this site, it's been a great help. Thanks." - Chris

Holly Belfield Morris, email, from Fanwood, NJ, sent news. (October 13, 2000)

"Hello everyone! I just wanted to update my "child status" On July 1, 2000, Gary and I added yet another boy to our clan! His name is Joshua Raymond. He joins Jay 5, Jordan 4, and Emily 2. Our children are wonderful. I'm a stay at home mom and I love my life!!" - Holly

David Greig, resident associate HARC, email, from Frankfort, NY, registered. (September 17, 2000)

Susan Bosquet Steele, email, from Herkimer, NY, registered. (August 20, 2000)

Brett Noll, Vice-President of Marketing from Toledo, OH., email, has a new email address. (August 20, 2000)

"Hello everyone. I've been living in the donut at Doty's golf course since graduating high school in 1986. Outside of dodging an occasional Titleist II or salt pellet, the living's been easy. I'm glad this site is up because I don't get much news in the donut." - Brett

Leisa Paul Murphy, Special Education Teacher, email, from Ilion, NY, registerd. (July 17, 2000)

"It is so neat to see what everyone is doing now. I am married to Michael Murphy and we have three children, all boys! Shea, Braden and Devin. I am a Special Education teacher at Barringer Road School. I love my job! My son Shea goes to school with me and it's been a great experience. I'm still not used to working with my former teachers. I still call them Mr. Watson, Mrs. Pabes, Mrs. Anderson, Mrs. Benes and of course Mr. Zito. I just completed the Boilermaker road race and am very exited about that. I'm taking a little break from having kids now so I felt I could start running again! I saw Jeff LaGase, Scott & Bob Alexander, Lisa Winslow, and Patrick O'Connor at the race. Right now, I am enjoying my summer vacation home with my kids." - Leisa

Daniel Schell, truck driver for TJM, email, from Ilion, NY, registerd. (modified July 22, 2000)

"I am very happy to see this site! I am currently living in Ilion at the very same house that I grew up in. I lost My mother after graduation. And my father about three years ago. And decided that there was no other place that I would rather start my life than in the house of such great memories!!! I married a girl that I have been with for the last 9 years. In Oct of '97, we finally took the plunge! We have no children but plan to in the future. I work for Madden construction out of Oriskney. Love my job and being out doors. Things in my life are the best they have been in the last few years. Well I hope to hear from my old classmates. If you like to email me- HOPE TO HEAR FORM YA!" - Dan

Matthew Boyle, Business Manager, email, from Fenton, MI, registered. (March 28, 2000)

Michelle Stone, assistant high school principal, Newark, NY, sent an update. (Feb 28, 2000)

"I just wanted to update the information on the website for everyone in case anyone wants to know where I am and what I am doing. I have moved to Newark, NY which is between Rochester and Syracuse. I accepted a position as assistant high school principal. My new e-mail address is mstone@wfmail.newark.k12.ny.us" - Michelle

Walter Burt, founder of a consulting company, email, from Sacramento, CA, registered. (February 2, 2000)

"Time collapsed when I read the updates from everyone. The postings brought back so many fine memories of Ilion mischief, misadventure, and misspent youth. I add my nickel biographyto the pile as follows:

1990-1991
After graduation I went to Colgate where I majored in Russian and East Asian Studies. I got a fellowship to study Sino-Soviet border relations in Manchuria and spent a winter covered in Siberian snow learning about the families shredded by the Cultural Revolution. I began dabbling in border trade then, being the common enemy of then Chinese and the Russians, and thus an agreed upon neutral party ("To your fat wife's hairy bottom, Sergei!" drunken Chen would say, adding "don't translate that directly, Mr. Burt").

1991-1993
I trickled down to Taiwan and lived there for a few years, where I started an English school, translated for Russian performing groups (at that time I was one of about five people in Taiwan who spoke Mandarin and Russian), including some clowns that wanted to defect, and fruity American stars like Vanilla Ice who did career twilight performance gigs there. I also edited the local English newspaper, wrote freelance, worked in a trading company, acted in a soap opera, and organized investment shows. Got tired of Taiwan and the glass ceiling there for foreigners trying to get to senior management, and went back to the US.

1993-1994
In Houston, I worked for a trading company, and hit the culture shock of Texas (a new terrific foreign country). I spent the first year watching police helicopters chase convenience store felons across the golf course below my apartment, getting to know a friend of a friend from Beijing (who was studying at Baylor), and figuring out the US side of the trading business.

1995-1998
After about a year, a colleague at my company in Houston and I moved to Fort Worth and started a new trading company. Buried in work, I spent most of the next few years chasing deals in Korea, China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Italy (where I learned that Italian may have been the better language study choice for quality of life), Mexico, etc. We make components for US manufacturers of consumer products, and eventually spun off two companies, one making equestrian goods (bits, spurs, horse blankets, etc), and the other making power cords and wire harnesses (extension cords).

During this time, that woman from Houston, Du, and I got engaged, and burned endless miles and audio books on highway I45 between Dallas and Houston (four hours each way). Some of you met Du during the 10th high school reunion. We were married in 1997.

At the end of 1998, Du finished her PhD in biophysiology and got offered a director position in California at a biotech company. Being tired of Fort Worth (Walter, ah see you got you one o tham thar ornamental wahves...), we pulled up stakes and moved.

1999-Present
We have been happily living in Sacramento, where I started a consulting company, and still spend too much time traveling (I am writing this from the road now), both in the US and abroad.

Life remains a terrific adventure, full of the amusing and the bizarre experiences that make it all worthwhile. (Come to think of it, the IHS population cerca 1986 was a hefty starter kit for anyone's collection of the strange...)

Well, this rambling has rumbled long enough (curse of late night insomnia). Thanks for your interest if you have made it this far down the page." - Walter

Katie Cress Cline, Ilion, NY, signed the Guest Book. (November 21, 1999)

"Hello EVERYONE!!! A friend from Wyoming sent me this site!!! It is so nice to see how everyone is doing. Just wanted to let everyone know that, YES, I am still married to the same man I married in high school!!!! We are STILL together too..... SURPRISE!!! Celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary on August 24th, 1999. We have three sons, Brandon-15 (who will graduate in the year 2001 from IHS!! I am psyched!!), Adam-13, and Kodie-8. Plus my daughter Sophie, who is my puppy!!!! Have my associates degree in business administration with data processing and accounting majors. I have been working for Community Maternity Services in Ilion for three years (with a 9 month leave to move to NC and back - hated it there). Ironically, CMS works with pregnant and parenting teens! All is going well. I would like to thank Diane Pannes, Patty Vayo, and Leisa Paul for inviting me and my husband, Don, to attend the 10 year class reunion. You have NO IDEA how much it meant to me. Leaving school at the beginning of the 11th grade was the biggest mistake of my life!! Regret leaving and not spending the last two years of school with all of the friends that I went through so much with. Although I can't go back and finish those two years, I was truly grateful that I was able to attend the class reunion. I hope that you will keep me in mind for the 15th!!!! Would love to hear from anyone and everyone!!! :-)" - Katie

Thomas Ingersoll, Shipping/Receiving Asst. Manager, from Ilion, NY, registered. (October 14, 1999)

Lori Coher, Laurinburg, NC, email, sent news for the Class of '86. (September 28, 1999)

"This is a very cool site. Who would have thought such a thing was going to be. I am currently teaching elementary art and success for all reading in a little town called Wagram on the NC SC border. I am sorry I missed the reunion but teachers don't get vacation. I hope I can make it to the 15. I'd love to hear from anyone." - Lori

Gregg Bentz, email, from Jacksonville, FL, registered. (September 10, 1999)

Betsi Hartmann Bentz, email, from Jacksonville, FL, registered. (September 9, 1999)

"Gregg and I have been married for 7 years now. We have one daughter - Kayla who is 4. We live in Jacksonville FL. Gregg is still in the Navy. He actually likes jumping out of helicopters. I work for the city of Jacksonville's Children's Commission. We are going to try to come up this spring or summer. We'd love to hear from anyone who wants to contact us. I'm glad we stumbled across this site." - Betsi

Suzanne Fleming Smith, Registered Nurse, from Orange Park, FL, registered. (modified September 12, 1999)

"I've been having fun seeing what everyone has been up to. My husband and I have been married for 8years and we have a 6 & 3 year old. Kyle is an x-ray tech and I am a full time mother and a part time RN. I hope all is going well for you!" - Suzanne

Eric Wood, machine operator/student, email, from Ilion, NY, registered. (May 18, 1999)

Kari Allen, email, from Ilion, NY, registered. (modified Sept. 10, 1999)

"Well hello! Kind of stumbled onto this web-site like a lot of you other folks...see, get a computer & it's amazing what can happen! I'm back in Ilion after a short stint in Boston,living the quiet life (if you can believe that one!) I have a beautiful 10 year old son namedSteven who keeps me on my toes playing baseball, football, golf & basketball! He's attendingBarringer Rd which is kind of scary since he has the same teachers I did (poor teachers-just when they thought it was safe!) I'm currently a Senior Underwriter at Hartford Ins Co in New Hartford and working more than I care to! I still keep in touch with Theresa, Sue, Becky, Greg,Patti,Thad, Joey & Dianne-what can I say? old habits are hard to break! Feel free to send me an e-mail, I'd love to hear from you!" - Kari

Todd Lozo, email, from Ilion, NY, signed the Guest book. (April 6, 1999)

"Well I'm back at the house I grew up in, my wife & I purchased the home my family once lived in. We have three boys Todd Jr. 8, Travis 4 and Jacob 18 Months. Still singing in the band now called SOC-7 no more country playing rock-N- roll now. I am owner operator of Tri-County Painting. Will be painting a hotel in Louisville Kentucky leaving June 6th if anyone out there from IHS is in the area look me up. See Ya." - Lozo

Joe Laura, Territory Manager, email, from Chester, NY, registered in the directory. (February 9, 1999)

Joann Seymour Miller '86, email, from Poland, NY, registered. (modified Feb 3, 2001)

"Haven't seen many people in over 13 years, stumbled on the site on accident, wanted to say hi and hope everyone is doing great. I am an adjustments clerk for Fleet bank,and reside in a small town called 'Gray', which is near Poland, NY. I have 3 children, Natshia, Maegan, and Kassandra, ages 10, 7, and 3. Have been married now, for 11 years. Drop me a line God bless....." - Joann

Rebecca (Becky) Okusko Cotto, REO Closing Manager, email, from Lantana, FL, registered in the directory. (modified April 14, 1999)

Joann Seymour Miller, email, from Cold Brook, NY, signed the Guest Book. (January 25, 1999)

"Haven't see not many people in over 13 years stumbled on the site on accident, wanted to say hi and hope everyone is doing great. I am an adjustments clerk for Fleet bank,and reside in a small town called "gray" which is near Poland NY I have 3 children Natashia, Maegan,and Kassandra,ages 10, 7 and 3 and have been married now for 11 years.Drop me a line tashia@ntcnet.com God bless....."

Matthew Boyle, Business Manager, email, from Fenton, MI, registered in the directory. (December 29, 1998)

Colleen Windecker, Systems Integration, email, from Clifton Park, NY, registered in the directory. (November 1, 1998)

"Hey Everybody, Thought I would share an update with you. Believe it or not, someone was actually crazy enough to ask me to marry him! Fred and I were married last October. I was fortunate enough to have Leanne Esford and Colleen Eldredge be able to attend the festivities. Married life is terrific but it helps when your husband is also. We are raising a happy-go-lucky, 120 lb. 7 year old named Auggie. He's so adorable with those 4 legs and that tail. My brother Mike and his wife Carrie (Rowley) recently blessed us with pretty little Anna Madison. She's 3 months now and I can't wait to have some of my own! That's all from this home front. Hope everyone is doing well. Take care," Colleen

Laurie Ferguson, Bank of America/csr, email, from Cramerton, NC, registered in the directory. (modified August 7, 1999)

"I thought I update everyone, I have a new job at Bank of America. I am a technical analyst for account reconcilation program at Bank of America. I am also engaged to be married next year also."- Laurie

Michael Denison, Sales Director, email, from Peoria, Az, registered in the directory. (October 9, 1998)

John Des Champs Jr., email, US navy, from Virginia Beach, VA, registered in the directory. (October 5, 1998)

James Baldwin, Governmental Affairs & Reengineering, email, from Herkimer, NY, registered in the directory. (Modified January 12, 2002)

Marianne Sorenson DesChamps, accounting, email, from Jacksonville, NC, registered in the directory. (July 16, 1998)

Jennifer DeRocco, email, visited the Guestbook Page. (modified May 22, 1998)

"I found this web site last year and thought I would update my e-mail address. This is a great site! I haven't been back to Ilion since I left in 89'. I lived in Tampa till 93,got married and moved to Arizona.Now I live back in Tampa divorced and work Capital One Financial Services.Anyone want to get in touch just e-mail me !! Hope to hear from you!!" - Jennifer

Bill Bower, Sales Manager - Ferris Mowers, from Clinton, NY, email, registered in the Directory. (March 26, 1998)

Anne Clement Anderson, CPA - Tax Accountant, email, from Poughkeepsie, NY, registered in the directory. (modified April 3, 1998)

Michelle Boston Otero, a 911 Supervisor, email, from Elmira, NY, updated her email address in the directory. (modified October 24, 1999)

"Learned about the web site by by sister who still lives in the Valley. After graduation I joined the Army and went to Korea and Oklahoma, where I met my husband. I got out before going to Germany, so we could stay together as a family. After Germany, w moved to Tennessee where we are now. I have two wonderful boys, Jeremy, 9 and John 5. Looking to come back to New York in the near future. This is a great site. Hope to be able to make the next reunion since I missed the last one."

Peter Massocco, email, from Herkimer , NY, registered in the alumni directory. (updated January 12, 2002)

Greg Lang from Ilion, NY., email, registered in the alumni directory. (December 7, 1997)

Angeline Bottini Sayles, the 4th alumnus from the Class of 1986 to register in the alumni directory. Angie dropped by and left this news....

"I graduated from SUNY Geneseo in 1990. I am working on a Masters Degree in Education at LeMoyne College. I recently was hired at ConMed Corporation as a Marketing Administrator. I was married on November 9, 1996 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Oneida, New York. I married Robert Sayles of Oneida, NY. Bob is an Internal Auditor with Oneida Limited. I enjoy gatherings with IHS friends and I'm still proud to be a BOMBER after all these years!" (August 22, 1997)

Melissa March Roach, email, visited the Guestbook Page. (December 14, 1997)

"I am enjoying this site. Thank you Angie for putting those pictures on the website. I am currently working at Oppenheim-Ephratah Central School as a Technology Teacher. I still live in Ilion with my daughter Jennifer. I keep in touch with Michelle Stone and recently looked up Laura Harney in Virgina."

Please email updates to: Angie Bottini Sayles at email


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