In honor of World AIDS Day, I release a red baloon in memory of my friend and mentor Dennis Stabler, the North Springs High School chorus teacher who would be the first to tell me, “You’re a chesty alto, honey!”

That was in 1983, ten years before his death.

He would go on to inspire me to perform in Show Choir, tour with the advanced mixed chorus, hit the high school music festival circuit with the all-women’s chorale, and compete at All State (IN SPANISH, earning me a score of I across the board).

Mr. Stabler, you inspired me and taught me and encouraged me as only a teacher can do. You are missed.