February 2003

Volume 7, Number 7, February 2003
MIDNIGHT SUN ONLINE
-The Online Newsletter for Robert E. Peary High School Alumni-

MSO WEB SITE - http://www.pearyhs.org/
Page 3

From: John Way <jsway@erols.com> (1983)
Date: Tue, 18 Feb 2003
Subject: Update

I found out about the website from other alumnus.

Occupation: teacher Memories: State Championship in Cross Country; Mr. Hill’s math class

Since High School: student; programmer; high school teacher

Future Plans: high school teacher and/or computer science jobs

Memorable Teachers: Mr. Hill, best teacher ever; Dr. Duke, great in

Spanish and a friend; Mr. Gibbs, “Of Mice and Men” and vocab

From: jennifer finotti guthrie <sixkids2dogs@aol.com> (1980)
Date: Thu, 20 Feb 2003
Subject: Update

I found out about the website from an alum.

Occupation: full time mom, Spouse: bob, Children: megan 16 - tyler 11 - shannon 6 - mark and john 4 - luke 2

Memorable Incidents: Skipping school to see Jackson Browne play on the Mall for Earth Day - protesting nuclear power; rode the Metro for the first time (it was new). Many seniors leaving the senior banquet early to make the Van Halen concert at the Cap Centre.

Since High School: having kids

Future Plans: done having kids - need a break

From: Linda Wojtyna Dempsey <Linsey@highstream.net> (1972)
Date: Thu, 20 Feb 2003
Subject: Update

A lot has happened since the 20-year reunion. I divorced in December 2001 after a lengthy row. I moved from east central Florida to the northeast mountains of Tennessee last summer. So glad to be out of the heat and closer to family and friends. I stopped working for the time being, but I’ll start back up as soon as I can figure out what to do with myself. I’ve been a respiratory therapist and a special education teacher in the past. I also did a bit of writing—language arts portion of standardized tests, reading stories and assessments, and natural health articles for a web site. I really enjoyed writing the best I think, and I hope to “get it together” real soon and crank out my first novel.

Love to all,
Linda

From: Laura Vandevender Kneib <hattie@ostrichbay.com> (1973)
Date: Fri, 21 Feb 2003
Subject: Update

Hi folks

It’s been a long time since I checked into the MSO site. I sort of checked out for a few years and as a result, have neglected my ‘freebie duties’ of keeping up the Class of ‘73 pages, the birthday pages... and oh yeah... all those newsletters that need coded. I’m working on said newsletters now, which is no doubt what prompted me to make a submission. I’ve recently finished updating the birthday pages, which Bob is posting. I’ve yet to get to the ‘73 pages, although I have all the updates stored on disk. Feel free to send any new information, including reunion information.

“I’m back in the saddle again!”

Now, what have I been doing? Well for a quick overview of the last 30 or 40 years. Graduated high school; ran my mom and dads shop in West Virginia, while earning my degree at Davis and Elkins college. Went brain dead and got married not long after graduation from D&E, and produced a beautiful son. Stayed brain-dead for about 17 years more, then finally ran for my life and got a divorce. For some of us... well it takes a while to figure things out.

After hiding out for a while, a fella came courting and continued that courtship for 10 years. We lived together for about five and then he asked me to marry him. After getting over the shock of the question... I answered “yes.” We were married... actually we married ourselves... jumped the broomstick (literally) in the back yard, by the hot tub. It was great.

If any of you care to take a look at some of the photos... go to www.ostrichbay.com/thegala You’ll see what a good time we had... Mr. Jay Kneib, and the now Mrs. Laura Kneib.

We broke all the social rules and since neither of our mothers sent bolts of lightening down from the heaven’s above, we must have done it up right. As I said, we married ourselves, changed into working duds and started cooking up a blue streak. A huge pot of chowder, made from clams we’d dug the day before... right out of front yard. Steamers and fresh corn on the grill, wine, a keg of yummy dark beer and a cake that could kill ya. Quiche, stuffed mushrooms... oh there was so much good food. It was great. Maybe getting hitched was just an excuse for a really great party! I’ll have to think about that one. We also asked Pearl Django over to make their wonderful music, and what a treat it was. Pearl Django in the back yard...who would have thunk it? If you folks like jazz, give them a listen.... Tell them Laura (hattie) and Jay from the Barnacle Ranch sent ya! http://www.pearldjango.com/

Just before the great “hitchin’,” a huge piece of really crap news came to call. My son had been diagnosed with cancer. Twenty-four years old, a beautiful young bride and a handsome baby boy... and lucky you... you’ve got cancer. It was quite a kick in the gut for us all. The beast within him is/was a huge mass about the size of a grapefruit, pushing on his lungs and heart. Poor kid went to the doctor thinking he’d broken or cracked a rib and came home with... sorry kid... you’ve won the booby prize... Cancer with a big “C.”

He began the chemo treatments before the “hitchin’,” so I really didn’t expect he could make it down... but you know what... he did. He felt like crap, but he came down to see his mom get hitched. He didn’t stay the whole day, but he was there and I was so pleased. As a matter of fact... he took the photos of the “hitchin’” part of the day, and a darned fine job he did.

He came through the chemo with flying colors, save the hair loss, for which I knitted a number of soft hats. By the way... if any of you folks know someone who might need a hat to keep their noggin warm during such a time... let me know... just send e-mail, as I’m still knitting those hats. Blue, gray, white and red. The style is that of a sailors “watch cap.” Seems most folks who knit the hats, only knit styles for women, as if to say, men don’t lose their hair when having chemo.... or men don’t get cold when they lose their hair. Bullsh-t...Men do lose their hair and they do get cold. So... I have hats for men. Let me know the color and I’ll get a hat out as soon as I can. webmaster@ostrichbay.com

Back to the kid. Then Matt went through radiation... 6 weeks of it... each and every day. He once again passed the test. He’s only had a bit of a set back since then, and that was shortly after he’d finished the radiation gig. The sac around his heart swelled up and crushed his heart as though a vice were being screwed down tight. He’s still on medication to keep that swelling down, but he’ll be off that before long.

The kid and his family are doing well, and I’m very proud of Matt and his little family. Nearly a year ago... the kid learned he had cancer... then his car blew up... he lost his job... they lost their house and went through many crappy months of “what if?” and “what next?” if anything. They are pulling out of it well. Matt’s working again, although not full-time, framing houses, building decks, sheds, and the like. They are making a life... again.

So, today is a good day folks. A person learns to live that way when going through such a time... a day at a time. It puts everything in the right order and the priorities become very clear, very fast. Today is a good day!

So, that’s where I’ve been. I’ve done a lot of kayaking and sailing. I’ve buried myself in work and in my sweetie. I’ve spent too much time alone while my sweetie was out at sea, banging around in a submarine for months at a time.... doing his bit for God and country. He was home for awhile, but now he’s gone again. Such is life in the military. But... today is a good day.

Hey, I didn’t tell you... Mom and Dad Goldstein came all the way out here to Washington, from Maryland, to see Jay and I get hitched. You might translate that ‘Mom and Dad,’ into Barb and Bill Goldstein, parents of Donna, Mark and Brian Goldstein. (Mark is also a class of ‘73 brat) My own folks, God love ‘em, aren’t of this earth anymore, and there are no two people in this world that could have represented them better. Thanks again, Mom and Dad G.

That’s about it for now. I’m working on those newsletters and will get to the class of ‘73 pages. I’m spending a lot of time in a little red kayak and keeping my part of the world calm and beautiful... even in the wake of “W’s” plans for us.

Take care all, and enjoy each and every day that you have, for they are indeed precious. Today is a good day!
laura
H. Laura (Vandevender) Kneib, Class of ‘73

From: tim breen <tbreen@admin.msjnet.edu> (1976)
Date: Fri, 21 Feb 2003
Subject: Mt.St. Joseph Wrestling

Mt.St.Joseph Wrestling just won their 24^th MIAA Title in 28 years and followed it by winning the Maryland Independent State Title last weekend over second place DeMatha! On the Nationals!

-Coach Breen

From: tim breen <tbreen@admin.msjnet.edu> (1976)
Date: Fri, 21 Feb 2003
Subject: My Brother

My brother Jim, Class of ‘81 is now appearing in that god awful play SHEAR MADNESS at the Kennedy Centre. The play is cheesy-schtick but he’s great. So spend those $34. You can reach him thru me or at THE WASHINGTON POST!

From: Jim Cyr (and Jennelle) <jcyr@sprynet.com> (1981)
Date: Fri, 21 Feb 2003
Subject: John Buck’s Memory Keepsake

Okay everyone,

I NEED your letters and pictures for John Buck’s Celebrate a Life Memory book I have offered to put together for his kids. Please forward this on to any and all of John’s friends so that they may have an opportunity to contribute!

We told Wende we were doing this, and she has asked about it. I can not do it with out your help! PLEASE write a letter to Nicholas and Lindsay TODAY and mail it to me. Please write the letters by hand, as these are much more meaningful than a typed or emailed copy.

It would be really nice to also have a photograph of you and/or your family to go along with your letter. If you have any pictures of you and John, those are also needed! Please label the picture with a sticky note, so I’ll know how to label it in the album. DO NOT WRITE ON THE BACK OF THE PHOTOGRAPH!!! (The ink will eventually eat away at the photo).

Back in November, I gave out 15 packets that contained photo-safe paper etc. and a pen for you to write a letter to Nicholas and Lindsay about their Dad (either a favorite memory, a funny story, or a tribute of some kind). I have received a total of 2 back. At the Fund-raiser, Dave asked people to write a note, Only a few did. I know it’s not easy to do, but I’m asking you to please take some time and write a letter for his Keepsake. It will be one of the few things the kids will have to help them remember their Dad. Please mail your letter out today!

PLEASE DON’T WAIT ANY LONGER!!!!!!
THANKS!
Jennelle Cyr (Jim Cyr’s wife)

[E-mail Jim and Jennelle for the postal address: jcyr@sprynet.com]

From: David Hutchinson <shoottenx@citlink.net> (1976)
Date: Sat, 22 Feb 2003
Subject: Update

I found out about the website from my wife, a 78 Peary Grad. Occupation: Analyst, Spouse: Martha (Di Benedetto, 1978), Martha’s Occupation: Home Maker, Children: Tyler - 19, Rachel - 12, Grandchildren: Don’t rush it.

Since High School: Working for a mortgage company within the DC metro area. In my off-time, I enjoy boating, fishing, hunting, golf, and competitive rifle shooting.

Future Plans: Get the children out of the house and retire in the Sun and Sand.

Memorable Teacher: James Baker - Enjoyed his class and the approach he used in teaching.

From: Martha Di Benedetto Hutchinson <msign@citlink.net> (1978)
Date: Sat, 22 Feb 2003
Subject: Update

How I found out about the website? Searched the web.

Occupation: Home Maker, Spouse: David (1976), David’s Occupation: Analyst Children: Tyler 19, Rachel 12

Since High School: We have lived in MD PA and now WV. Volunteering at my daughters school.

Memorable Teacher: Mrs. Cea, because she was always willing to talk to you about a problem. Very open.

From: gaetana stover mcgill <gsmcgill@earthlink.net> (1974)
Date: Sun, 23 Feb 2003
Subject: Update

I found out about the website from fellow alumni.

Occupation: homemaker/personal asst, Spouse: edmund, Children: thomas age 16, Claire age 15

Since High School: after graduating from the university of dayton (where I met my husband) i worked as a marketing director for a restaurant group. in 1986 i became a mother and decided to stay home and raise thomas, and his sister claire who is just 11 months younger than he is.

Ed and I celebrated our 25^th wedding anniversary with a bike, eat and drink trip thru the Burgundy wine country of france Future Plans: getting the kids into college than finding a beach house in bethany beach

Memorable Teacher: kathy heidelberger - young, hip teacher who taught me about journalism (i majored in communications), who let me buy her gas during the embargo and babysit her kids with my boyfriend

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

Ron Tepper - Class of 1979 <rtepper@kconline.com> Occupation: Customer Support - RemoteDocs.com, Children: Mariah Leigh 6

Debbie Maybe Dukes - Class of 1977 <debbieadukes@yahoo.com> How I found out about the website? I’ve been part of the site for a number of years now. Updating my information since I got married. Occupation: Secretary, Spouse: Larry, Children: Dukes - Larry, Jr. 23 and Melissa 22, Millers - T.J. 22 and Nicole 19.

JOE BASILE - Class of 1984 <JOE@BASILESAUTO.COM> Occupation: AUTO TECHNICIAN, Significant Other: JANICE, Since High School: JUST WORKING

SUSAN K WOOD - Class of 1966 <WOODSK1O@AOL.COM> I found out about the website from the REUNION BOOK. Occupation: RETAIL EXECUTIVE

Jennifer Benedick Queen - Class of 1983 <softwinter36@yahoo.com> How I found out about the website? A friend told me. Occupation: deli clerk, Children: Ashley 18, Samantha 13, James 9, Since High School: I live in PA and work as deli clerk

Stephen Bernd - Class of 1975 <s.bernd@attbi.com> Occupation: City of Lewisville, Spouse: Cyndi, Children: Stephen jr. & Candice. http://www.mp3.com/theberndbrothers - Original Music and CDs

Margarita Salah - Class of 1973 <maggi@erols.com> I found out about the website from a Class of ‘73 classmate. Occupation: Education

thomas a carr - Class of 1972 <ashleyern1017@aol.com> Occupation: self employed, Spouse: connie, Children: daniel 23, brendan 21, erin 18

Lee R. Silverman - Class of 1978 <emsdiver27@yahoo.com> I found out about the website via google. Occupation: Fire/Rescue Captain, Paramedic

Joan Martin Penfold - Class of 1979 <penfoldlanding@msn.com> I found out about the website from my brother - Alum. Occupation: Nurse-Medical Sales, Spouse: Dennis, Children: Robert 17, Elise 13

Phaedra Lucara - Class of 1983 <Pbudman@comcast.net> I found out about the website from a friend. Occupation: homemaker, Spouse: Charles A. Budman, Children: Emily 9 years old, Diana Elizabeth 5 years old

Amy Grill Spenski - Class of 1983 <aspenski@triad.rr.com> Occupation: Registered nurse, Spouse: Rick, Children: Bailey(daughter) 10 and Mitchell(son) 8, Since High School: I work night shift as a nurse in a neonatal intensive care unit

Mike D’Amato - Class of 1980 <mikeymater@earthlink.com> I found out about the website from family & friends. Occupation: Printer, Spouse: Sharon Perkins, Memorable Incident: The VW car in the courtyard, Since High School: Having fun playing drums for “Mike Lange & Boogie Express” Future Plans: Living a long fun filled life with my wife Sharon.

Collins Blaha - Class of 1975 <c21ggtocol@aol.com> I found out about the website through Google.com. Occupation: Real Estate Broker, Children: Charles, 7 YO

Janis Wiesman Spanburgh - Class of 1978 <joyfulgal41@hotmail.com> Occupation: Business Owner, Spouse: Bob, Children: Lacey 15, Katelyn 14, Jesse 12

Anthony Jones - Class of 1965 <tjeeper999@aol.com> Occupation: Supervisor

Neal Philip Hyman - Class of 1973 <hyman29@comcast.net> Occupation: sales

END OF TEXT - MIDNIGHT SUN ONLINE - VOLUME 7, NUMBER 7

Articles for the next issue are due March 29, 2003

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