Volume 2, Number 6, January 1998
MIDNIGHT SUN ONLINE
-The Online Newsletter for Robert E. Peary High School Alumni-

MSO WEB SITE - http://www.pearyhs.org




 

PAGE 3 of 4

From: Tina Sawanobori Fredo tfredo@hst.nasa.gov (1980) Date: Tue, 30 Dec 1997 Subject: Update

I found this site after talking to Ellen Wolf (1980). I have enjoyed getting in touch with alot of old friends. Email has been great for this! Webpage.... http://www510.gsfc.nasa.gov/512/hst.htm

Website Nature: This website gives the reader a sneak peak into the Hubble Space Telescope. Otherwise, the pictures are at best, pretty. This is what I am currently working on, here at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. Hubble has taken some great photos of planets, g

Occupation: Manager of Flight Software Development for the Hubble Space Telescope, Spouse: Richard

We just got married this past August (1997). Rick and I met at work. I took my chances when dating somebody from work, but I knew from the moment that we met that I couldn't pass this up! Rick is a Systems Engineer on the Hubble Space Telescope. He's in charge of the Electrical Power System, and basically makes sure that the spacecraft has enough juice to keep all the instruments (cameras, clocks, spectrographs, etc.) working. I work on a different part of the telescope. I work on the computer that does the pointing and controlling of the telescope. We control the telescope remotely, like you change the channels on your TV set. My responsibility is to make sure the software is working correctly and detects any health and safety problems. Don't know if this makes any sense to anybody.

We don't have any human children yet. But, we do have 2 cats. We each had a cat before getting married, so I guess we could be considered a mini-Brady Bunch. Sheba is about 10 yrs old, brown, and very overweight. We can't get her to go to Jenny Craig, so she sleeps most of the time. Sheba is very friendly and loves people. Nikko is a pure white Persian who thinks he's a two year old human baby. Very mischevous even at age 9, and is a "mama's boy." Shame on me!

My brother, Tom Sawanobori (1978), lives in California. He has 3 beautiful little girls. Emily (7) is into soccer, piano, swim team, voice lessons, and loves to perform in plays - a real ham! Kimiko (4) is very sweet, and keeps up with her older sister. Kimi is into swimming and piano and is looking forward to kindergarten next year. Hana (2) is the littlest. She is apparently speaking in full sentences. She's following big sisters footsteps very nicely. The girls are all so cute. Ok, so this is a biased report from their Auntie Tina. Emily and Kimi made such sweet flower girls in my wedding.

My parents are doing well. Still living in the same house after all these years. They are enjoying traveling, and haven't stopped since my brother and I got out of college. They loved Italy and will try to go again next year.

I went to Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, Virginia after high school. I got my degree in Computer Science, and thought I'd get a job until I figured out what I really wanted to be when I grew up. Well, over the years, I worked for various companies, including Lockheed and CSC. Now, I'm with NASA - the government. Now that I've built up a career in the software industry, I think I'd like to branch out and try something in the health industry. Hard transition to make when all you know how to do is work with satellites and spacecraft. Oh well, I'll keep trying to figure out what I Really want to do one of these days!!

I keep in touch with Ellen Wolf (1980), Wendy Tucker Godwin (1980), Monica Penn (1980), and Sue Wolpert (1978). Ellen is doing well and lives in Bethesda. I see her the most, since she lives close by. Wendy lives in Ohio and is a Mom and an occupational therapist! Monica works up in Frederick and looks great! And Sue Wolpert is doing missionary work in Guatemala.

I've recently heard from Perry Tsacoumis and others thru this web site. It's great to hear how old friends are doing!! I love it! Hope to be in touch with others soon!

Grandchildren....None yet, thank goodness.

What high school incidents stand out? Gee....my memory is fuzzy, and not as clear as Al Bundy's Polk High football memories. I guess I would have to say that playing field hockey and hanging out with the team was one of my favorite memories. I learned all about team work and made alot of good friends. It was a close knit group, and we all used to get together at Christmas time at Whit's house - she was the coach. A bunch of us used to get together every weekend. Aaahhh, those were the good old days. (Am I sounding like Al Bundy yet?)

I forgot to mention earlier that I am also in a band, called "The Swinging Richards." We're an alternative/rock band and have played locally at places like the Olde Town Tavern in Gaithersburg. We're playing next at Crossroads, in Fairfax on February 21, 1998. Come on out for some music and dancing!!

Since graduating, I also did a little bit of traveling; Cananda, Finland, England, Puerto Rico... But, this fun kind of stopped when I purchased the "Money Pit" fixer upper house. I bought a cute little cape code house that is very old. It needed alot of work, and I learned alot about plumbing, plaster, roofing, etc. I finally sold my charming little money pit when I got married. This old house held lots of parties, and band rehersals - it was fun while it lasted. Right now, we are renting - a nice break from being Harriett Homeowner.

Also, since graduation, I've tried to keep up some form of exercise. Gravity is my rival. I've done the gym and weights thing, swimming, and am now into biking.

This web site has been really great! It's been alot of fun getting in touch with folks again. And, I've only been "connected" since October '97. Thanks to all who coordinate the newsletters, web site, emailings!! I really appreciate it.

I'm also looking forward to our next reunion. Can't believe it's going to be in the year 2000!!!

From: Lisa Lee Simpson lisalee@wam.umd.edu (1985) Date: Tue, 30 Dec 1997 Subject: Update

I graduated from Rockville HS, and found out about this website when I looked for it after my husband looked up his high school. Occupation: Special Educator, Spouse: Brian Fielder (Spouse and Sig-O!), Children: No children. Lots of pets!

Memorable Incident: The school closing...Peary has a lot of history with my family, and I had some wonderful times there.

Since High School: Upon graduation from Peary, I studied Graphic Design and Photography at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, and graduated with a BFA. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this as an occupation. After a period of career exploration, I went back to school at the Univerisity of Maryland. I am completing a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Special Education, and working as a Special Educator at Brookhaven ES. Along the way, my friend Charlene introduced me to Brian Fielder, a graduate of the engineering program at UMCP. He and I were married in June of 95! We purchased my family home and live there with four animals! Home Sweet Home!

Future Plans: Brian and I plan to continue updating our house! We've already had the roof replaced, and re-sided the house ourselves! Now it is time for the inside. We will both continue our jobs, he at Price Waterhouse in Network Security and I at Brookhaven ES. I also have a couple of children's books that I am working on. (There is never a dull moment!) Children are in the plan, but not for a while. We have no idea how long we will remain in this house or in this area...could be forever, could be until next month...it all depends on Brian's work. Mostly we plan on continuing our lives' adventures filled with Love and Hope and Thanks for each other and all of our blessings!

Memorable Teachers: Mr. Hill (math) and Mrs. Glass (art) are the faculty members I have the fondest memories of. Both of them were inspirational to me and other students. Mr. Hill through his quotes of the day, and his "board of education." Mrs. Glass with her eye for creativity and beauty. Both seemed to care about their students deeply, and, in my case, where always willing to lend an ear and some advice when asked. I think of both of these teachers often, and am grateful for their part in the formation of my adult life.

Becky, thanks for putting this portion of the page together! Hope all is well with you. LLS

From: Mark Glaudemans mark.glaudemans@noaa.gov (1980) Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 Subject: Update

How I found out about this? Fellow 1980s alumni mentioned it. Occupation: Hydrologist, Spouse: Amy Boettcher-Glaudemans Children: Magdelyn - 4 1/2 years, Ethan - 9 months

Since High School: got Masters degree in Civil Engineering, got married in 1988, have two children, feeling very fortunate

Memorable Teacher: Mr. Hill - taught us not just knowledge but also experience

Glad to see the web page; might attend an event sometime

From: Bob Brown bbrown@connext.net (1982) Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 Subject: Update

I found out about this from Eddie Amatucci (1982). Occupation: Undersea Warfare, Submarine Section Manager Spouse: Jennifer, Children: Sydney Katherine 4, James Robert (III) 1 Grandchildren: Give me another 20 years!

Since High School: BS Mechanical Engineering, Univ. of MD MS, Organization and Program Management, Johns Hopkins Worked for Navy @ Carderock Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center for last 15 years. Recently took a senior and very lucrative position at Techmatics, Inc as the Submarine Section Manager in the Undersea Warfare Division ... i.e. Navy consultants.

Married in 1989 to Jennifer, put her through Nursing school etc.

Amateur competitive body builder (quite a physical metamorphasis), did some modeling, videos, ads etc. a couple of years ago.

Future Plans: Raise and enjoy family, build career, build a nice house in western Howard county, be thankful for my many blessings!

Memorable Teachers: Mr. Hill and Mr. Black because of their high level of expectation coupled with their sense of fair play.

From: Sia Raptakes Lappin van0802@aol.com (1983) (c/o Tina Raptakes VanDevander) Date: Fri, 2 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about the website from my sister, Tina (1985). Occupation: Exercise Specialist, Spouse: Joseph, Children: None yet!

Since High School: After graduating from PHS, I went to Montgomery College (Harvard on the Pike) for 2 1/2 years before transferring to Salisbury State University. I received my undergraduate degree in physical education and health fitness in May of 1989. Since it took me so long to complete my undergraduate studies, I figured why not keep on going to school. So I went on to get my Masters Degree in Counseling and Education. I am currently working for HealthSouth as an Exercise Specialist and I teach aerobics on the side for Merit. My husband, Joe, and I tied the knot on November 16, 1997, and we currently live in the remote city of Quantico, MD on the Eastern Shore with our dog, Cody.

Future Plans: Joe and I plan on staying on the Eastern Shore and would like to begin adding to our family within the next two years. Oh yeah, I also plan on winning the Maryland State Lottery once I start playing!

Memorable Teachers: The faculty member that stands out most, of course, has to be Mr. Hill for his humor, especially his "greetings and salutations," and then there is Mr. Gardner for his friendship and his cheerleading expertise.

From: Melina Mahassel meenie@webtv.net (1985) Date: Fri, 2 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

Occupation: Instructor - Professional Hairstyling, Fiance: Heath Bates

Memorable Incident: parties at my old house, graduation 1984, the death of Brian Hardaway in 1984 it was so sad.

Since High School: working as a hairstylist, teaching at Aspen Beauty Academy, getting married on April 4, 1998. The colors for my wedding are navy blue and arctic white!

Future Plans: Maybe open my own salon; I would really like to get in touch with some Peary alumni, to see how everyone is doing.

Memorable Teachers: Mr.Hill, Mr.Bragonier, They were such great influences. Mr.Bragonier's POTC class was so cool.

I am still in touch with every friend I hung around with. We all made a pact to stay together, and we have. Debbie (Travers) Mendiola, Gaith. Md. Kim (Winning) King, Rockville, Teresa (Whitsell) Penland, Rockville, Greg Whitsell, Damascus, John Salah, Gaith., Mary-Jo (Ember) Lee, Elena Papapostolou, Wash. D.C., Andrea Fisher, Frederick, Md. Robert Marinaccio, Rockville, Md.

From: Mary Scott Wiecek worf_deerpark@msn.com (1979) Date: Sat, 3 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

Jennifer LaRue Huget told me about the website. Occupation: Homemaker, Spouse: Tom Children: Matthew age 7, Danny age 4, Elizabeth age 10 months

Memorable Incident: YUGOTOUR! Also, hanging around in the school after hours, working on stuff (indoor publicity, props) for the drama club.

Since High School: I got a BS in Geology from U of Delaware in 1983. I got an MS in Geology from Boston College in 1987. I worked as an environmental consultant for ENSR Corp. until my first child was born in 1990. Since then, I've been a stay-at-home Mom, which I enjoy, most days! I take an art class every semester or so, and may work my way towards an art degree at some point. I'm still a Star Trek freak!

Memorable Teacher: Mr. Clarke, of course, because I went to England with the AP History group. And because he was such an excellent teacher! And I remember Mr. Luko, because he was a nice guy, and I loved Earth Science and Astronomy.

Missing People? Tania Ramirez - moved to Puerto Rico in 1985 Carol Smith Krauss lives in Virginia Beach with her two daughters, Emma and Kimberly. I'll see if she wants to send her e-mail address.

If no one's going to do anything with that building, I wish they'd just tear it down. It depresses me terribly when I visit my folks...

From: Roberta "Kay" Coleman Smith 74104,3100@compuserve.com (1972) Date: Sat, 3 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about the webiste from my Mother via the Montgomery County Journal. Occupation: Traffic Manager, Spouse: Griff

Memorable Incident: Student walkout to the Montgomery County Board of Education

Since High School: I have lived in Texas, Virginia and now in Aurora, Colorado. Have traveled some, been married 3 times!! (You can stop laughing now!) I keep in touch with old friends and have made new ones. I am particularly interested in art, especially since one of our company's specialties is crating and shipping fine art. I paint and draw and am a member of the Art Student League of Denver, the National Museum of Women in the Arts, and the Smithsonian. I still play the piano, I have a 1903 Hobart Cable upright, and two really spoiled cats!

Future Plans: I plan to continue traveling and having fun with my husband, pursuing my own artistic compulsions and enjoying life.

Teachers: I remember Mr Gibbs, mainly because he could read my mind. But, most of my high school memories are cloudy!?!

Missing People? Jeanne Harris Brock, Corpus Christi, Tx. Sam Galifero, Santa Rosa, California

From: Jon Glaudemans jglaudem@erols.com (1975) Date: Sun, 4 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about this from my brother, Mark (1980). Occupation: General Manager, Aetna U.S. Healthcare, Spouse: Jennifer Children: David—13, Katharine—10

Since High School: College (75-76), sailing (77), college (78-79), sailing (80) graduate school (81-82), Executive Office of the President, Office of Management and Budget (83-90), Aetna Health Plans (91-present)

Future Plans: Raise family, climbing, sailing, soccer

Memorable Teachers: Mr. Gibbs—taught me to write/appreciate good writing; Mr. Hill—taught me discipline/precision/insistence on quality

From: Richard L. Hepburn richardh@ngc.com (1979) Date: Sun, 4 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

Occupation: Systems Engineer (Computer S/W), Spouse: Claudia Cissel Hepburn (1979), Spouse's Occupation: Registered Nurse (RN, BSN) Children: Allison (F) - 6/88 (9 years), Matthew (M) - 7/90 (7 Years)

Since High School....

Richard - Graduated from Univ of MD in 1983 w/degree in Economics. Married in Oct 1986 to Claudia Cissel ('79). 1988 - Daughter Allison born, 1990 - Son, Matthew born. 1992 Moved to Cary, NC (near Raleigh). Currently employed w/ Network Associates, Inc. as a Systems Engineer (sales technical support) selling computer networking software.

Claudia - 1984 Graduated from Univ. of Md in Baltimore w/ a BS degree in Nursing. Worked for 8 years at NIH. Mother of two children (listed above). Currently employed in NC as a Home Health Care Nurse (Home Infusion).

From: Alan Rich NovaLabel@aol.com (1981) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

This is incredible. I heard about our school website from Dan DiFonzo (1981), whom I keep in touch with many times a year.

Occupation: Vice President/Sales Manager for Nova Label Co., Inc. A manufacturer of custom printed pressure sensitive labels located in Cheverly, MD. We provide tacky tips for sticky situations.

Spouse: Bonnie, Children: Rebecca 8; Leah 5. Memorable things: Can't remember.

From: Chris Benton Bovey no e-mail address submitted (1968) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I was just browsing and found the Peary website by accident. Occupation: Homemaker/part-time tutor, Spouse: Todd Children: Katherine Kelsen Bovey 15

Since High School: I've lived in several areas of the country, including Santa Fe, New York, St. Louis, and Austin. I graduated from the University of Texas in 1980. My husband and I moved to the Northwest in 1984.

Memorable Teachers: Mr. Moran, my homeroom teacher. He was like no one else, and his sense of humor kept me sane. Mrs. Cohen, algebra teacher. I never knew what she was talking about. My fault, not hers. Mrs. Longley, English. For the lovely way she pronounced "Hawthorne."

I have had no contact with anyone from the school since 1969, so I must be about as lost and forgotten as anyone you might hear from. Is there a prize for that?

From: Lawrence Shapiro ljshapiro@erols.com (1973) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about the website from Richard Boyd (73) and Gary Blum (74). Occupation: Software Engineer, Project Lead, Spouse: Julia Children: Marisa R. 9, David J. 6, Megan M. 3

Memorable Incident: The year (1970?) we marched to the board of education (sorry Dr. Dunn!)

Since High School: Worked/Traveled/Played a lot. Computer Science Undergrad/Masters Degrees. Marriage. Kids.

Future Plans: Raise the kids, retire, travel and play to the end. Memorable Staff: Ms. Thomas, for turning the other cheek!

From: Matthew Glaudemans mglaudem@csc.com (1980) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about the website from brother, Mark (1980). Occupation: Computer Systems, Spouse: Dana Children: Jessica 2 1/2, Michael 1 year

Since High School: Went to college at University of Maryland earning 2 degrees: Resource Economics and Natural Resource Management, entered WorkForce in the Contracts Management field, then went back to school at Univ of MD to earn a degree in Computer Management/Information Science. Degree led to current career field on Management in Information Systems with Computer Sciences Corporation.

Married with 2 children, living in the Germantown, MD area. Missing People? Doug Ferg is in Northridge, CA

From: Mark Glaudemans Mark.Glaudemans@noaa.gov (1980) Date: Mon, 05 Jan 1998 Subject: Flag mast from old school

FYI: Maybe this is already well-known, but I thought I'd share it anyway...

The flag mast that was on a decommissioned Navy ship named the R.E.Peary, and that was located for some time in front of Peary High itself, is currently located at the outdoor education facility off Muncaster Mill Road, near the Lanthrop E. Smith nature center (about a mile from Muncaster and Rt. 28). This is the old large, tall, white-painted steel mast that we all remember... It is erected at the facility with a plaque discussing it...

Mark Glaudemans

[The Mast, then and now, information and photos are online under Traditions and Facts]

From: Sean Logan riflex@patriot.net (1983) Date: Wed, 7 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

Occupation: Paving contractor, Spouse: Brenda Children: Kyle Thomas Logan - 6, Eric Connor Logan - 3

Memorable Incident: 3 years of soccer Since High School: College, starting and owning own business Future Plans: world travel

Memorable Teachers: Robert Pine - soccer/history and law classes, Shirley Ancell - photography teacher

From: Rick Bass cwc.inc@erols.com (1970) Date: Wed, 7 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about this from my brother-in-law Matt Hauprich, class of 70'. Occupation: Remodeler, Spouse: Marcia Hauprich Bass (1974) Children: Maggie 19, Cara 9, Matthew 4

Memorable Incident: The day Matt Hauprich (70) beat up a football player on the Soccer Team's practice field for not obeying our request for staying off the field while we practiced.

Since High School: After Peary, attended University of MD, one semester prior to joining the Army with Gil Wilson (70), joined the 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C. from 1971 - 1974. Worked for the Post Office for 12 years before taking my retirement and starting my own remodeling business (Creative Wood Concepts, Inc.) 1987. Married Marcia Hauprich (74) and we have two children, Cara 9, and Matthew 4 and live in Damascus, MD.

Future Plans: Continue with our business in remodeling until we retire. See the country while playing alot of golf.

Memorable Teachers: Mrs. Maycooth - Home Room Teacher, Mr. Williams - P.E., Mr. Pine - Soccer Coach, Mr. Thomas - POD Teacher

From: Michael DiFonzo mdifonzo@erols.com (1984) Date: Thu, 8 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

My brother Dan (1981) alerted me to the Peary website. Occupation: Tax Accountant/CPA, Spouse: Leslie Fitzpatrick (1985) Children: Angela - 5/2/95, Christine 11/12/96

Memorable Incident: Tragic Automobile Death of Brian Hardaway (1984) hours before graduation rehearsal - 6/4/84

Since High School: Attended UMD, graduated 1989, received my CPA June 1990, working as a CPA/tax accountant in Rockville and graduated from The American University December 1996 with a Masters in Taxation.

Future Plans: Considering opening my own tax practice with a focus in small business and family tax planning and becoming a certified financial planner.

Memorable Teachers: Warrick Hill - Commanded and Gave Respect, Mrs. Rosen - Down to earth and GREAT stories

From: Rona Shapiro Land shapirolan@aol.com (1974) Date: Thu, 8 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about this from my brother Larry Shapiro 1973. Occupation: Veterinarian, Spouse: Alec Children: Rebecca Jean age 7, Kimberly Michelle age 5

Memorable Incident: The cubby hole.

Since High School: I went to college for 10 years. Married my wonderful husband Alec in 1986. I have two children, Rebecca and Kimberly, who keep me very busy and make me very happy. My husband and I own 4 Veterinary Hospitals in the Columbus, Ohio area.

Future Plans: We just purchased twenty eight acres which we plan on terraforming and eventually building a house on and owning horses.

From: Richard "Rick" Cauble DJ4ALIVN@aol.com (1974) Date: Thu, 8 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

Occupation: Producer- Entertainment,sound/light, Spouse: Cindy Children: Richard jr. 20yrs., Kristin 18yrs.

Memorable Incident: Too many good times to list...I would have to say graduation..beacause on that day we were all friends, no cliques, and unsure what was to become of us. It was so hard to say goodbye and to know you may never see some of those classmates ever again.

Since High School: Going to school, being married, raising a family, putting in 18 yrs. at safeway, retiring, starting my own business and being self employed and happy in the music/entertainment business. Started as deejay. I own what has grown into a production company. We do large shows with sound and lighting. We have deejays and a dance troupe that work locally and into other states in the east. And also produce live shows for one of our own Alumni in the radio biz.

Future Plans: to start taking it easy, playing golf, going out on a concert tour, getting my kids out of COLLEGE.

Memorable Teachers: Mr. Clarke, loved his attitude. And of course Mr. Hill, just because he was nice.

I just want to take a minute to thank all those involved with this website. I think it's a great thing for us without a home and it's nice to hear what's happening with all the gang.

From: Ben Wardlow bwardlow@bellsouth.net (1981) Date: Fri, 9 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

How found out about this from my sister, Carla (1986). Occupation: software developer, Spouse: Denise Children: Thomas Emory age 8 (as of 2/8/98), Allison Marie age 1 (as of 12/17/97)

Memorable Incident: the time we almost got arrested Memorable Teacher: Mr. Hill because he treated us like people, not children.

From: Karen Loftus Mallen djmandklm@erols.com (1973) Date: Mon, 12 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I learned about the website from my sister, Susan Loftus (Class of '79). Occupation: Homemaker/Student, Spouse: Dennis Children: Christopher D. 14 years, Timothy J. 11 years, Patrick J. 9 years, Matthew K. 3 1/2 years

Memorable Incident: Football games, drama productions, and Mr. Clarke's history class.

Since High School: I graduated from Marymount University with a degree in Medical Technology. I was a Medical Technician for The Neurology Center in Chevy Chase for ten years before resigning to become a full time mother of 4 boys. I have returned to school to update my skills in computers. I will be graduating from Montgomery College in May.

Future Plans: I plan to return to work when my youngest son starts 1st grade. My goal is to work part time with the public school system so that I can be home during the summer months with my children.

Memorable Teacher: I remember Mr. Robert Clarke the best. He made learning history so much fun. You were never bored in his class. He didn't allow it. I will never forget the yardstick that he always had on hand. We had to watch out for that yardstick.

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