From Jim Mousner

To all of those who love and admire Doug,

Cybele, I think your idea is very fitting. As Joe Cortina said, Doug corresponded with more people than anyone we knew. It was just his way of staying connected with those he considered special. And email is so appropriate, given that it was one of his favorite mediums. Although, I know he still loved rubber stamps, xerox and hand written notes more.

I did not have the chance to be introduced to many of you, although I heard so many stories from Doug. He and I got together regularly to converse about politics, design, art, culture, etc. We talked about projects we wished would come to life. Where we thought the government went wrong. How Houston needed respect through its own hood ornament. The return of BLUESTAR. Dolphin news. Women, though this was often a painful subject for both of us. Whatever happened to be fresh that week.

As a young creative, Doug was a role model for me; someone who never compromised his vision, passion or commitment for life, art, friendship, family, making a statement, if one needed to be made. Doug opened my eyes to a fresh perspective on the world, from someone I really wanted to be like, someone who had lived a lifetime of art, but was still so ahead of his time.

And yet, even though I recently turned 33, I always felt Doug and I were the same age. He never seemed to grow old in mind or spirit. It was a unique aspect to our friendship. How often can you be close to someone you both enjoy hanging out drinking martinis, being everyday buds, and at the same time idolize and look up to?

He was a superstar. Its hard not to be sad. As much as I will celebrate Doug's beautiful life, I will also miss calling him for advice, inspiration or just a positive word. I will miss hearing his 'voiceprint'. He always made me feel like everything was going to be alright. When things were dark, he always reminded me life was good and to appreciate what you have and those you love, and not in that order.

In typical Doug-fashion, I received a post card today from him. He had sent it on June 11, the day before his death. I welcomed it as a final word from him. The card didn't say much, just a 'Howdy!' But as a poignant final message, Doug signed the card "Happy Future".

I love you Doug.
See you in the future.