I was truly saddened to hear of Jimmy's recent passing. I only knew him from the jazz improvisation classes I took with him from 1985 to 1986 at UCSD. Even though my improvisation attempts on my trumpet were hopelessly square, Jimmy never failed to encourage me to keep trying, especially when he discovered that I had sufficient "lead" chops that could excuse me from soloing. Most importantly, I knew I was getting advice from a working musician with a plethora of experience. It was especially impressive to hop in my car after class, turn on the radio and hear the local jazz DJ annoucing Jimmy and Jeannie Cheatham's "latest" release. Pretty Cool! It was just such an announcement that caused me to learn of Jimmy's passing. Jimmy, I want you to know I never gave up! My wife and I have been leading and managing the sixteen piece Moonlight Express Big Band, based in Fullerton, California for the past 13 years. I still can't improvise my way out of a wet paper bag, but I do get to conduct and play lead trumpet. Thanks for your impassioned tutelage. You will be missed.