The Coachmen, a club with membership from the Douglas High School classes of 1963 through 1975, will hold a reunion dinner and dance on October 6, at The Hotel Arizona, 181 W. Broadway, in Tucson, AZ. This gala Coachmen and Friends event will benefit the Douglas Maryvale School. The school and its students became a favorite project for The Coachmen beginning with an annual Christmas Party for the students in December 1963.

According to Douglas realtor and businessman, Raul Carrizoza, who was Coachmen President in 1968 and 1969, the club was recently reactivated when a group of former members began to discuss a reunion. This resulted in a decision to hold the reunion in Tucson, and invite all people who had supported the club as friends during high school. Further, Mr. Carrizoza advised that, "discussion concerning profits from the dinner and dance quickly resulted in a unanimous decision to assure that the Maryvale School and its students were to benefit from any activities following the club's reactivation and its activities".

Carrizoza also advised that "the Coachmen drew members from students enrolled at the Douglas High School when we were active during the 60's and 70's," and that "in addition to supporting the students at Maryvale School, our club made many contributions to the Douglas community and to the High School through participation in school food drives, clothing drives, and fund raising efforts".

Attendees at the dinner and dance will be able to chose from and enjoy a three entrée buffet dinner consisting of Chicken Ala Florentine, Pepper Crusted Sirloin, and Herb Roasted Salmon. The main entrees will be accompanied by Au Gratin Potatoes, Creamy Basil Pasta Shell salad and a Mixed Greens salad, a Chef's choice of vegetables, fresh baked rolls, butter, and a choice of teas and coffees, with an assortment of Mini Cheesecakes for dessert.

Dinner and dance music will be provided by Douglas natives Bert Escobar and his Trio Monte Carlo, and Hector "Echo" Romero, respectively. Door prizes will be given away including a familiar prize that will be immediately recognized by attendees who used to attend The Coachmen dances during their high school years.

Seating for the dinner and dance is limited, and admission is by advance ticket purchase only. There will not be sales at the door. Tickets must be purchased by September 15, 2007. There is a special Coachmen and Friends Reunion hotel room rate of $79 plus tax available by calling hotel reservations on 520-624-8711 or 1-800-845-4596. Online booking of reservations may also be made by accessing the hotel website at www.thehotelarizona.com and clicking on groups then entering the code "Coachmen".

Tickets and further information are available in Douglas by calling Mr. Carrizoza at 520-364 -7900.

Phoenix area residents may contact Mr. Rene Lopez at 480-820-9748 and, in Tucson the contact person is Ms. Helen Bostick at 520-881-0288.