The North Texan, University of North Texas, University Relations, Communications and Marketing, P.O. Box 311070, Denton, Texas 76203-1070.

Letters may also be faxed to (940) 369-8763, sent via Internet to north_texan@unt.edu or submitted on this page. Letters may be edited for length and publication style.

Binding thoughts

I was honored, humbled, surprised and inspired to reply after seeing my picture on the "Table of Contents" page in the spring issue. My eyes watered some when I checked out the online pictures of a few of my former workmates at the bookbindery.

Memories of North Texas are never far from my mind. My life before attending North Texas was anything but idyllic. My transformation there has led to a life of happiness and fulfillment. This includes an enjoyable career, a wonderful marriage of 34 years, and a beautiful and intelligent daughter.

Best of all, I had the insurmountable pleasure of watching my daughter walk across a stage at the University of Colorado to graduate as her father did 38 years earlier.

I often paraphrase a quote from Dr. J.C. Matthews made on that momentous night of Aug. 20, 1964: "If you consider this formal graduation to be the end of your educational processes, then I am sorry we failed you."

Powerful stuff, indeed. Thank you, North Texas. I have lived up to your principles. You certainly did not fail me!

Doug Duncan ('64)
Aurora, Colo

In the "Time Tracks" column of the spring 2004 issue, you wrote about the bookbindery at North Texas.

When I was a graduate student in the Department of Chemistry (June 1976-December 1978), I had my torn-up Advanced Organic Chemistry textbook rebound there for my birthday. Actually, my wife at the time had it bound for me in 1977.

My book is long donated, and I still miss my ex-wife.

Ronnell Townsend ('78 M.S.)
Independence, Mo.

Thank you for a beautiful publication specifically for alumni and friends.

During my four years at North Texas, I worked for a Mr. Hardesty in the library's bookbindery and was able to pay my way through school. Your article about the bindery on page 28 of the spring issue was most appreciated and brought back many memories.

The young lady pictured at the stitching machine is Peggy Narrell. She was a co-worker and friend. I believe she now lives in Arlington and has a married name.

Thanks again for the magazine and congratulations. It is so well done.

Les McKee ('56)
Rockwall

The best life

I had to write regarding the death of Dr. James Davidson, former English professor at UNT ("Friends We'll Miss," spring 2004). I took three classes from him and he was a wonderful teacher and person.

I kept in touch with him throughout the years since I graduated. He was a wonderful, kind, caring human being as well as an exceptionally talented musician and artist.

He lived the best life he possibly could have and that made him quite an inspiration to me. I will sorely miss him.

I remember talking to him for hours after class about literature and life. I found him full of wisdom, a very balanced human being. I never heard him say a bad word about anyone in the 26 years I knew him.

I think his memory should be honored as a terrific professor and human being. He was my mentor and my friend and I can never forget his honesty, kindness, decency and superb talents. He never would have bragged on himself, but I will.

He was a very worthwhile human being, who lived a quiet life of excellence.

I was blessed to know him as surely many others who knew him were too. UNT was very fortunate to have him teaching for so many years.

Karen Dilbeck ('80)
Carrollton