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 4 of 4

From: Ruth Anne Schmitz Myers Ruth_Myers@fc.mcps.k12.md.us (1971) Date: Mon, 12 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found the Peary website from a link on the Rockville High School Pipe Band Web Page. Occupation: Special Education Instructional Assistant, Spouse: Rick, Children: Robert 23 yrs., Ryan 20 yrs., Regan 18 yrs., Rachel 16 yrs.

Memorable Incident: All of my days with the Pipe Band. All of the performances, the trip to Scotland, the first Highland Happenings (Now called the National Capital Area Scotish Festival and is still being held at Rockville High School the first Saturday in May. This year will be the 30th.)

Since High School: I've been married for 25 years. Stay at home mom for about 11 years. Worked as a pre-school teacher for 10 years at Children's Learning Center. This is my fourth year working for MCPS. I served on the executive board of the Rockville High School Pipe Band Booster Club from 1988 to 1997 (92-97 as president.)

Future Plans: Get all the kids settled and on their own.

Memorable Teacher: Bob Clarke since he is now a member of our family. He married my sister Pat.

From: Victoria Oscar VOscar5035@aol.com (1985) Date: Tue, 13 Jan 1998 Subject: Brad Oscar

This article is about my brother Brad Oscar who graduated in 1982.

He doesn't have a computer, and doesn't know that I'm writing this article. Brad graduated at the top of his class from Boston University where he majored in Theatre. Brad always knew that he wanted to act. Some of you might remember his brilliant (ok, I'm his sister) performances Directed by Mr Gibbs at Peary. Well, when Brad graduated from BU he moved directly to the Big Apple to pursue his carear in theatre. He waited tables for just a short time until he was cast from an open call in Aspects of Love by Andrew Lloyed Webber. His Broadway debut. I cried, as did my parents when we saw him on that stage for the first time. We were so excited, but we all knew that he would make it sooner or later. Brad went on to tour with Aspects after it closed on B-Way, then went on the Canadian tour. After that was over Brad came back to the rat race as an unemployed actor, like many of us. But, that didn't last for long. He was then cast in the comedy Forbidden Broadway which is a parody of all the B-Way shows. Brad really shined in this particular show. His wonderful comic timing and brilliant voices added to the already funny show. Forbidden had been running for years and years with many different cast members. There had been talk of closing the show and bringing it out to the west coast. So, thats what they did. Brad was in LA for about six or eight months with the show, then came back once again as an unemployed actor. But, not for long! Brad was then cast in the most recent tour of Jekyll and Hyde which after years of work and changes was finally brought to Broadway. The tour ended up being a totally different show that what is currently now on Broadway. Brad was one of the few people in the cast who was asked to be in the Broadway Production. It is truly an exciting show as we all have a Jekyll and Hyde in each of us. My brother is truly a talented working actor in NYC. I am very proud of him, and it's been a blessing to watch the beginning of all of his dreams come true. Jekyll and Hyde is currently playing at the Plymouth Theatre on 45th street. If you're ever in the city you should see it, and wait for Brad at the stage door. I'm sure he would love to see ya. The future holds many wonderful things for Brad. I am very proud of him and his accomplishments, and one day we shall share the stage together, as "The Oscars." (our parents will need a box of tissue for that one) Anyway, I wanted you all to know what he's been up to, and to come and see the show. You won't be dissapointed. And if you do come to the city and don't see Jekyll, just don't go see Cats!!! Brad is on three different CDs Aspects of love, Forbidden Broadway Volume 3 (that's a good one!), and Jekyll and Hyde.

If you want to get a message to him, you can send your e-mail to me, and I will make sure he reads it. He lives just a block away from me. If any english teachers are reading this, I'm sorry, I'll never change! I am the run on Queen!

Victoria Oscar

From: Frank Minogue fminogue@pcisys.net (1978) Date: Tue, 13 Jan 1998 Subject; Update

I found out about this from Jeff Cook, 1978 grad. Occupation: Attorney, Spouse: Therese, Children: Sean age 7 and Shannon age 4 Grandchildren: give me a break, I'm not THAT old

Memorable Incident: Working on Variety Shows

Since High School: I graduated from Towson State in 1983, Married the former Therese Carrette of Bowie, Md and moved to California. I taught special education in a rehabilitation facility until I attended Law school at the McGeorge School of Law. I worked private practice for two years in Stockton, California and Fairfield, California, until I signed on with the United States Air Force JAG Corp (please don't remind me of that stupid show on TV). I was stationed in England, U.K. for three years, then in Great Falls, Montana and now I am stationed in Denver, Colorado. Therese and I have two wonderful children who occupy our spare time quite adequately. We love the travel and variety of work experiences that the Air Force offers.

Future Plans: Home is where the Air Force sends you. At this point, I plan on staying in the Air Force, although we very much miss Montana and have considered separating and moving back there. Ask me tomorrow, because my mind changes like the wind.

Memorable Teacher: Miss Timmons, my science teacher. She had a lasting effect on my decisions in life.

From: Jean Sabin Crutchfield JMAlphaB@aol.com (1972) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 1998 Subject; Update

I found out about the website from my mother, who found it. Occupation: teacher's secretary, Spouse: David Children: Gavin Montgomery 14 yrs (born 4/15/83), Shanley Rose 11 yrs (born 7/23/86)

Memorable Incident: Other than the trip to the Bahamas? Going for donuts with the SGA crew (Bob, Dave, etal)

Since High School: Married. Divorced. Married. Raising kids & lots of dogs. Dozens of jobs, bigtime school volunteer & PTA. Soccer mom for the last 8 years. Some travels. Good times.

Future Plans: Keep on living the good life & figure out how to send the kids to college. Once they are grown we'll probably move to North Carolina. I can't take the cold.

Memorable Teacher: Mrs. DeLauder, she was our class sponsor and tolerated a lot from us.

Hi Jacquie!

From: Melina Mahassel (Bates on 4-4-98) meenie@webtv.net (1985) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 1998 Subject: Hello to all Peary alumni!!!

I would like to say that the idea of MSO was the biggest thing since color tv. I have kept in touch with most of my friends from Peary; they will all be at my wedding in April. Here are some updates:

From the class of 1985 : Most of us had to go to Wheaton and Rockville. I still hang out with Debbie (Travers) Mendiola, Kim (Winning) King, John Salah, Andrea Fisher, Teresa (Whitsell) Penland, Robert Marinaccio, Greg Whitsell, Talk to Paul Scholl every now and then, he is the best plumber in the world. I would like to hear from some of the alumni from 85 and 86, if possible. In one of the other newsletters someone mentioned that there was some mysterious bond that keeps Peary people close together. Whoever said it hit the nail on the head. I don't know what it is, but I hope it never stops. Just reading some of the earlier alumni stories makes me feel like we were all in the same class. God bless all Peary alumni. Thanks

From: John Miller dmiller@esu6.esu6.k12.ne.us (1975) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found the Peary website via yahoo search. Occupation: Machinist, Spouse: Diane, Children: Chad 19 years, Mandy 14 years; Grandchildren: not there yet maybe in another 30 or 40 years then I might feel like a grandfather

Since High School: Working - it seems like we all have to do that just to keep uncle sam happy. I remodel old houses then sell them. Right now we are working on a 101 year old house. I also ref soccer from 10 year old kids all the way up to high school and college. So if I am not running around the plant at work or fixing up my old house I am running up and down a soccer field.

From: Nancy Lewis Conant nancy.l.conant@BellAtlantic.com (1968) Date: Thu, 15 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about the Peary website from The Washington Post. Occupation: Operations Systems Specialist, Spouse: Scott Children: One son - Jason 23 years old, just graduated from UVA, One daughter - Kristina 21 years old, will graduate from U of MD in the spring.

Memorable Incident: My family was overseas for my sophomore and junior years, so I was really only at Peary for the first half of my freshman year and senior year. I had a lot of great experiences during my last year in school but the one that stands out most clearly is graduation day. Probably because I was so glad to get out.

Since High School: I went to college and then started working for C&P Telephone Company. 25 years later it is called Bell Atlantic and I am still here. Bell Atlantic has been very good to me. I have two beautiful and talented kids who I am sure will live much more distinguished lives than I have.

Future Plans: Retirement is only about 5 years away. We have been fortunate enoug to be able to bay a place at the beach and I hope to begin a second career there doing something totally unrelated to my first one.

Memorable Teachers: I remember Mrs. Sykes, Mrs. Richardson and Ms. Carruthers because they were so unpleasant. In the last few years I have had the opportunity to know Mrs. Richardson personally and she is a lovely person. Maybe she mellowed out.

Thanks to all who maintain this website. I enjoy reading about the accomplishments of fellow Peary-ites!

From: Brian Simpson bsimpson@aflcio.org (1979) Date: Thu, 15 Jan 1998 Subject: Northern VA traffic pictures

Could it or would it be possible for you to put Northern Virginia pictures on your web site. I think I am not the only Peary grad who is living in VA. Your site is so good that a few of my friends including me have it as a favorite site. Keep up the good work. Plus cannot wait for the 5K in April that is when my wife Jean and I expect our second child and we know it is going to be a boy so we both picked Sean Clay Simpson. I am sorry that I could not make the bash in December. Keep up the good work your site is by far the best that I have ever seen even though I am not a wiz on computers. Some people still think I am a ding bat from 79. Well maybe I am, but to my co workers and friends I am not. So keep up the good work again.

[I'm working on linking those live VA Traffic Cameras! - BL]

From: Sandy Anstead Hilty surf2@flash.net (1980) Date: Thu, 15 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

Occupation: flight dispatcher for American Airlines, Spouse: Jeff Children: Alyssa 7 yrs., Sean 4 yrs.

Since High School: I worked for two airlines in the Washington DC area. Since 1987 I was hired by American Airlines and have lived in Texas. I have done a lot of traveling and enjoy my job and being a mom.

Memorable Teachers: Mr. Wise the typing teacher that also worked at the Aspen Hill A&P. Mrs. Jarbo the gym teacher.

Missing People? Melonee Wright lives in Gaithersburg.

From: Lynne Oldham Drees ldrees@dcmds.dla.mil (1975) Date: Fri, 16 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about the MSO from my sister Barbara Oldhdam Tritch (1973). Occupation: Contract Management Assistant

Since High School: After high school worked at NIH until 1982, then moved to Virginia Beach, VA. I met my husband Marc, who's from Kansas, married in 1987, had a baby in 1988 - Justin who is 9 years old. Currently working for Department of Defense, Contract Administration and living happily at Sandbridge Beach.

From: Dave Rush daverush@naples.infi.net (1971) via Bob Lau Date: Fri, 16 Jan 1998 Subject: for MSO newsletter

Dave Rush (71) survived foot surgery in November, is walking again and has been promoted to city editor of the Naples Daily News in Naples, Fla., where he resides with this son David, 15. He reminds his old Peary friends, particularly any desperate single women, of his standing invitation to join him on the beach for frozen margaritas and a shoreline stroll with those metal detectors like all the old people have. Dave and his wife of 18 years, the former Beth Rust (71), were officially divorced in December after a two-year separation. Beth remains in Southern California with their daughter Vicki, 17, who will graduate from high school in June.

From: Michael DiFonzo mdifonzo@erols.com (1984) Date: Sat, 17 Jan 1998 Subject: Further Update

It seems like I've spoken to twenty plus PHS grads since I learned about this GREAT site during Christmas 1997. I hope to see all of them online shortly.

The HARPER Family on Oriental Court are all doing well. I spoke with Kim (Early '70s), Charis (cicra '76), Riley (Circa '74), Gresham "Woody" ('82), and Michael ('82/83) very recently. As well as the Janc's, Cara Dedad Witmer ('84) and lots others.

Michael Harper loved Peary High so much, he intentionally delayed graduation until 1983 so he could take more Art classes and enjoy the greatest days of our lives.

Reminisce with me for a while:

I lived just beyond the BLACK PATH on Bartlett St, near the Idoni's, Saylor's, Fitzgeralds, Schmidts. Do you remember when:

Cars would be parked half way to Rock Creek Valley Elementary School for football games and school days.

The Bag Pipe band would march in formation through all the neighborhoods collecting money and playing their beautiful rhythms. You'd here 'em for miles. Coming and Going.

Peary vs. Churchill in the '70's. I think it was the only game in history us neighborhood kids knew we couldn't sneak into. It's the only game I ever paid for as a little kid.

Sledding on those two big hills on Peary's lower field. Christmas tree bonfires and intoxicants. The caves behind Peary near the creek. Exactly who or what created them?

The Rumbles - The Kingdom of Twinbrook v. The Aspen Hill Crew near the creek and the caves.. I was four or five in 1971 and I vividly remember the aftermath of these violent clashes.

The meadow just beyond the lower field. It's no longer a meadow. it's more like thick woods now. Peary's field and the surrounding neighborhood down the hill from school are inundated with deer now. They'll come out at night and chow down in the yards on flowers and shrubs three and four blocks away from the woods. Damn near all the way to Arctic Ave.

Peary Wrestling. By far the most dominant athletic dynasty I've ever seen. Why was it this way? Coach Black? The Saylors and Cannons? Ulisneys? Wheaton Boys Club behind that big store in Aspen Hill?

Waking up on Saturdays in the Fall and hearing the Rowdies, the pep band and the loud speaker and the referee's whistles and the sound of the football player's cleats as they walked out of the locker room towards the field..

Mr. Hill had the same classroom for probably his whole tenure at PHS. He didn't use an overhead projector. He had that little ice skating maneuver way of sliding back and forth in front of the blackboard. The man could cover more area without taking his feet off the ground than anyone I've seen. By the time we graduated in 1984 he had worked a path into the floor tile at least a quarter inch thick. He was amazing. I was blessed.

The SMELL of the Gym. When did it start smelling that way?

I miss those days.

I hope somebody gets a kick out of this message. Take Care.

Mike D.

From: Bob Lau blau@clark.net (1976) Date: Sat, 17 Jan 1998 Subject: Mixing Alumni and Work Activities

Thanks to all of the alums, especially the newbies, who showed up for our scheduled Friday night gathering in Bethesda last night! About 35 of us partied into the night, including our sole 1963 alum that evening, Becky Hawkins Fitch! Thanks to Neal, our FNG coordinator, and to Andy Timmins (1982) for arranging the evening for us.

We also watched the return of my character on NBC's "Homicide" on the large-screen TV, and gee... I had to watch the recorded program at a later date to follow the story due to the cacophony you folks made for each scene I appeared. Hrrrumph. Really, thanks guys for the support ...it's much appreciated! As a result of that broadcast, the Homicide fanatics on the internet want an interview for their forums and newsgroups, a high school may have me speak to their classes, and I might participate in a benefit for the Fell's Point Creative Alliance next month with the regular cast of the series. Fell's Point in Baltimore is where the show's soundstage is located, and all of the location shooting actually follows the story line. Giving out autographs to non-alumni patrons that evening was a hoot too.

The evening was a welcomed break from the previous 10 days straight, running between freelance work for the U.S. Dept. of Education and the set of "Enemy of the State" working as a background player and as a member of the precision driving team with the stunts crew. I had read for a role in the feature several months ago, but found out that they gave the part to one of the wardrobe guys! When it's released in October, watch for the EMT in the ambulance who has a gun held to his head (in a rather humorous way) by Will Smith to make them stop the ambulance.... it should've been me! For you women, yes, Will Smith, Gene Hackman, and Jason Lee were in the scenes we shot in Baltimore, Dupont Circle, and Adams Morgan. My former girlfriend, Kristy, who many of you know, has also been working in the movie and for Homicide as well.

Other than that, I'm scheduled to judge some programs at the end of February for the local entries of a television association that I belong to, and will probably be attending the National Association of Broadcasters conference in Las Vegas in April for an organization (yet, another) which I serve on the International board.

FYI, "Homicide" was renewed today by NBC for a 7th season.... no doubt the NBC executives and decision-makers saw the performance of the Process Server in the episode last night ;)

Hey, when you're a local, personal agent-less actor, all that's left is self-promotion! The next broadcast you may find me will be in a PEPCO commercial during the Super Bowl next Sunday (DC/Balt only).

Once again, thanks for everyone's support and for catching the show on Friday. I hope you enjoyed it, and it was wonderful to meet so many "new" people (non-regular attendees) at the gathering, and of course, seeing the usual gang. Sorry that Arch Campbell didn't show, as he was out west for the Golden Globe Awards coverage. The only cast that showed was another local actor who also had a recurring role on the series a long time ago in scenes with Ned Beatty and Robin Williams. That's okay.... most importantly, there were Peary Alumni there!

From: Cara DeDad Witmer mikcarwit@aol.com (1984) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

I found out about the website from Jean (Pieranunzi) & Kevin Schuler (1984). Occupation: Office Manager, Spouse: Mike Children: Amanda - 4, Justin - 18 months

Memorable Incident: Spending time with Jean, Vicki, Jennifer, Duchess & Laura

Since High School: Working for a home builder, raising two kids, now working for our family Land Surveying business.

Memorable Teacher: Mrs. Rosen - She was always there to listen.

From: Kathy Jackson Kuta sculptor@mobbs.com (1976) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

Occupation: Arabian Horse farm manager/ sculptor Children: Stasiu Reuben 7 1/2, Grandchildren: Don't think so!!

Since High School: College; sculpting; trying to continue working with horses; making ends meet in health food stores and art casting foundries!

Future Plans: Establish myself in the horse industry and network to continue the sculpting!

Recently moved to Tennessee. Would love to know if there's anyone else who migrated to the Memphis area!

From: Chuck Geimer, Jr. SoftEagle1@aol.com (1968) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 1998 Subject: Update

Occupation: MB Service Tech, Spouse: Sandra F. Beigle Children: Melissa 12

Memorable Incident: Getting caught smoking in the boys room by Mr. Thomas (3x) LOL in 9th grade.

Since High School: Wondering what ever happened to: Mike Zangardi, Gregg Vera, Steve Wise, Larry Lucas, Bob Waller and the rest of the "CREW." I know Earnest Posterino was killed in Vietnem. I go to the wall to pay my respects!!! I am a Nam Vet myself, serving from '68-70.

Future Plans: would love to see a 30 year class reunion. It would be interesting to find some of these folks again!!! :)

Missing People... any info you could pass to me about the guys I mentioned above would be very much appreciated.

*********** QUICK TAKES ***********

Chris Lewis - Class of 1978 clewis12@csc.com Occupation: Finance Manager, Spouse: Carol, Children: Scott 18, Catherine 13, Megan 7, Jeremy 3

Melanie McIntyre Gugliuzza - Class of 1978 no e-mail I found out about this from Lori Sloan Van Zanten (1978). Occupation: account manager, Spouse: Bruce, Children: Codi 6, Logan 2 Since High School: working, raising children, being happy Future Plans: creating more time for art work

Lara White Brown - Class of 1979 larab@binsales.com Occupation: Sales Representative, Spouse: Steve, Children: Duncan 4 yrs Since High School: Working, Traveling, Raising Family

Bill Wood - Class of 1971 bwood@fenix2.dol-esa.gov I found out about this at the recent 1971 Class reunion. Occupation: Computer Systems/Programmer, Spouse: Claudia Mangan

Sharon Price - Class of 1974 no-mail submitted Occupation: legal secretary, Spouse: Dave

Lisa Hirsch Ben-Shlaush - Class of 1974 glks@sysnet.net I found out about the Midnight Sun Online from my sister. Occupation: teacher, Spouse: Gabriel, Children: Karen 14, Shani 11

Donnie Simmons - Class of 1984 donnie@erols.com I found out about this from Robert Hambright (1984). Occupation: Firefighter

Frank Lanciano, Jr. - Class of 1972 jessielanc@aol.com Occupation: Manager, Giant Food, Spouse: Karen, Children: Jessica 10, Andrew 6, Memorable Incident: Football Missing People? Betsy Budd lives in Florida.

Martha Daly Drucker - Class of 1978 idrucker@erols.com Occupation: Home Improvement Contractor, Spouse: Ian Children: Amy (12), Jenny (10)

David Judson - Class of 1974 dhjhome@airmail.net Occupation: Patent Lawyer, Spouse: Laurie Children: Julie - 8, Scott - 6

Terry Kernan Class of 1980 t.kernan@erols.com I found out about the website from Neal Pizzano. Occupation: Mortgage Loan Officer, Spouse: Mary Susan Children: Terry,jr. 8, Joe 5, Bridget 6 months

Robert Johnson - Class of 1974 rjudson@kpmg.com Occupation: Management Consultant, Spouse: Karen Children: Benjamin Joseph 7, Samuel Ethan 4, Zachary Reuben 8 months

Karen Cross Hopkins - Class of 1983 granny0219@aol.com I found out about this from my mother. Occupation: Staff Accountant Spouse: Trent, Children: Arthur Brooks "Buddy" 2, Brandi Nicole 3 1/2

David Hinkeldey - Class of 1981 no e-mail submitted Living in Saginaw, MI

Mike Gantz - Class of 1983 Gantz@dnc.democrats.org Occupation: Staff Accountant, Spouse: Susan

Steven Filler - Class of 1979 Fillerse@aol.com Spouse: Sheerylee, Children: Sarah Elizabeth 6yrs old, Steven Edward Jr. 4yrs old

Jane Storer O'Connor - Class of 1982 jtp@home.com I found the Peary website through Yahoo Search. Occupation: Risk Analyst, Spouse: Tim Children: Peggy O'Connor DOB 11-18-85 Grandchildren: not yet, don't rush it! Since High School: All kinds of exciting things! Future Plans: The sky's the limit.

Meredith Way Morris - Class of 1974 meredithwm@aol.com Spouse: Adrian, Children: No children. Six Lhasa Apso's

Steven Kerpelman - Class of 1978 kerp@freewwweb.com Occupation: Police Officer, Spouse: Janene Children: Stephen 6, Bethani 1

Lynne Oldham Drees - Class of 1975 ldrees@dcmds.dla.mil Occupation: Procurement Technician, Spouse: Marc Children: Justin - 9 years old

Barbara Oldham Tritch - Class of 1973 tritch.barbara@hampton.va.gov Occupation: Administrative Officer, Children: Jason - 23, Tiffany - 15

Steve Hogan - Class of 1980 hogana@erols.com Occupation: Engineering Program Manager, Spouse: Amanda Children: Patrick Stephen Age 4, Kathryn Ruth Age 7 months

Mark Furda - Class of 1983 MEFurda@aol.com Occupation: Contractor/Home Improvements, Spouse: Karen Children: Mary 6-93, Matthew 4-95

Becky Barrow Clarke - Class of 1978 Snowshoe60@aol.com I found out about this from my sister Joyce Barrow (class of 79). Occupation: Registered Nurse, Spouse: Charles Children: Heather Barrow Clarke 4 1/2 years Memorable Incident: Our Convocation Memorable Teacher: Mrs. Pat Hale she gave the impetus to go on and get my BSNn degree

John Filler - Class of 1976 jmfiller@yahoo.com I found out about this from my brother Steve (1979). Occupation: ATT communications - comm tech, Children: John Jr 17, Jenna 12

David Filler - Class of 1976 tatfil@erols.com Spouse: Susan, Children: Erin 11 months

Christopher Schenken - Class of 1983 eos@mindspring.com Occupation: Attorney, Memorable Teachers: Warrick T. Hill - The best teacher at Peary. Laura Rosen - The most fun teacher at Peary.

Introduction/Page 1

- Articles may be submitted directly from the Peary/MSO Website, OR sent to the MSO: PearyHS@iicsdc.clark.net

- E-mail and Postal Addresses can be submitted from the website, OR send to Postmaster Neal Pizzano: npizzano@erols.com

To automatically receive past issues of the MSO, send e-mail to:MSO-yymm@iicsdc.clark.net
(where yy=year, mm=month) e.g. to receive the February 1997 issue, send e-mail to MSO-9702@iicsdc.clark.net

Articles for the February issue are due February 21, 1998. Send your news to the MSO: PearyHS@iicsdc.clark.net

Copyright 1997 The Midnight Sun Online - http://www.pearyhs.org

Midnight Sun On-Line
Volume 2, Number 6, January 1998

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