************************************************************ MIDNIGHT SUN ONLINE The Online Newsletter for Robert E. Peary High School Alumni Volume 8, Number 2 September 2003 MSO WEBSITE - http://www.pearyhs.org ************************************************************ INTRODUCTION Greetings Huskies, APOLOGIES: This newsletter is being distributed about a week late. I have been traveling cross-country by car since Sunday 9/28. See below. Thank you for your patience! PHS SCOREBOARD: Photos will be posted soon on MSO of our original scoreboard and its current home, courtesy of Mary Fegan Heckhaus (1979) and Lynn Keady Galletti (1978)! LITTLE FOXES: Ditto - Photos of the Peary/Gibbs's production will be posted soon on the website, courtesy of Will McNaughten Loving (1974). POMMIES: We still have received no photos to post of this year's Pommie Cookout from May! CLASS OF 1979: Lisa Stein Aron - invalid e-mail for many months! If anyone is in touch with Lisa, please let her know MSO needs a crucial e-mail update from her ASAP as the 1979 online class coordinator and "keeper" of all the onlne 1979 classmate records - thanks! 2004 REUNIONS: Visit the website to see about reunion planning for 2004 for Classes of 1963-1965 and Class of 1984! Photos will be posted soon from Suds & Sun and Class of 1968 reunion in Ocean City on 9/27, courtesy of several alums - but we don't have the "tally" to see which class had the most attendees, yet. And photos will be posted soon from Western/Rocky Mountain Crab Feast on 9/6 (courtesy of Ron Bostick, 1977, Western U.S. alumni coordinator). Class of 1975 - Annual Get-together (fall - TBA) THANK YOU THIS PAST MONTH: Victoria Ballenger (1982), Patricia Newman Jacobs (1969), Paul Hambright (1975), Karen Kiley (1981), Judy Mitnick Benjamin (1976) and Finley Benjamin (1969), Susan Ganey (1977), Karen Pilot Trupo (1983), Steve Steinberg (1983), Toni Scarpelli Rollins (1965), Judy Pratt Rossiter (1977), Brian Klock (1985), and those who have committed to the "recurring donation" plan, for generous donations in support of the MSO. If you would like to support this project, please link to: https://id267.securedata.net/pearyhs/donation.htm for additional info and a secure page for donations via credit card, and informatiom if you wish to support this project by way of snail-mail. MY MOTHER/MY STATUS/THANK YOU: Continued thanks to those who have e-mailed and/or sent gifts as a result of the effort by Gale Senseman Privette (1966) and Ron McGee (1976) for distributing a notice on my behalf to the 24 class online coordinators, who may have, in-turn, distributed the notice to all of their respective classmates. I WILL still respnod to many of you that I have not replied directly to, yet. There have been hundreds of e-mail and snail-mails since late August, and I am, to put it mildy, still overwhelmed with my situation, work, the temorary relocation, and the personal situation overall. As time has passed, it seems that only about half of the online class coordinators followed-through and sent the plea to the respective-class classmates as requested by Gale and Ron. There was no response and no e-mails from individuals from many classes with regard to this situation. There is no indication that this notice was received by any staff/faculty alumni either. If you or anyone from your grad year did not receive this notice (late August/Early September), e-mail 1966's Gale Senseman Privette (gale7@juno.com) or 1976's Ron McGee (rp.mcgee@verizon.net) for a copy of their effort/plea. As most of you who have remained in-touch know, my mom is now back in the hospital (Montgomery General), unfortunately, as of September 30th. I made it to Maryland Aug 12th and stayed for just over 6 weeks, thanks to the support from many of you "Huskies," then (recently) returned home to Nevada for three days and loaded-up the car with work and computers/ eqpt and my pets and drove back over a 5-day period. MSO and I (and my work) have "set up shop" in Maryland for an indefinite visit. I saw an alumna along the way, who made a 3-hour round trip drive to meet-up on my route (I-70) through Utah and Colorado and the Rockies, and Illinois and Indiana and St, Louis, MO, then Ohio and W. VA, PA, and finally through Hagerstown/Frederick to Rockville. We live in such a beautiful country. FYI... you won't win anything, but if you happen to see a white Chevy Malibu with "Silver State" (Nevada) plates in the area on the roads around Rockville, honk and wave or e-mail me! Thank you for your prayers, e-mails, support, and gifts during this difficult time for me. Again, I will get back to all of you who have written these past 7 weeks whom I have not yet responded. Bob Lau, Editor/Webmaster - blau@viawest.net The Midnight Sun Online - Robert E. Peary High School P.S. If you wish to reply or comment, please don't quote this entire newsletter back - please form a new e-mail to blau@viawest.net, and always include your grad year in the correspondence. If you have changes to your e-mail address or other contact information, PLEASE use the main menu links at www.pearyhs.org - it'll go a lot faster and make it easier on us. If you have an article, an update, or a change of mailing address - please use the links on the website, rather than direct e-mails if you would. Thanks! ********************************************************************* From: Jan Zlotnick (1973) Date: Mon, 11 Aug 2003 Subject: "forever" - reflection of our '73 class reunion/30th. forever (reflections on a 30th reunion) peary is a place that doesn't need to be a building or a classroom or a ball field to continue to exist. because it is a place that requires only the compass in our hearts to find and to go to whenever we need, wherever we're at. it's a place, where no matter which way you turn, no matter what your sense of direction, you can never get lost... and, yet, it is that place where you find yourself, at times like now, wanting to be forever lost in. there are some places where the sound is so intensely familiar, you are transported to the very center of your self. it is the sound, a cadence of voices, the meter of a time, of reunion. even our greed for youth is pitch perfect to me. this is a laughter and a cry and a long, full, loving howling at the moon that is the truth of my heart. because it is the musical composition that is uniquely us. and I never want this sound to grow faint or fade into the cacophony of real time. this is ours. It is as real as it gets. it is our peary high time zone. and it is, to me, the best chance at forever we'll ever have. god bless the class of '73 and all our friends and family who we're blessed to share it with. jan zlotnick, '73 ********** [MSO apologies - we missed Christine's initial update last month!] From: Christine Waters Smith (1980) Date: Sun, 17 Aug 2003 Subject: Update How I found out about the website? Stumbled on it. Occupation: Family and Youth Support Assistant. Spouse: Ronald (class of 78). Ronald's Occupation: Maintenance Worker, Children: Ronald Jr. 15, Randall 13, Courtney 9. Cara 4 Memorable Incidents: Parties Since High School: I did not graduate when I should have. Achieved my GED in 1983. On second marriage and have four children. Have returned to school. Started in Early Childhood Ed and am now double majoring in Criminal Justice and Human Services with a concentration in Family Traumas. I have a background in Early Childhood and Developmental Disabilities. Have worked (and still am involced with) adults with disabilities. Currently work for a non-profit with teenaged and young parents. Future Plans: To receive my BA in Social Work and eventually, my Masters. I would like to teach at a community college part-time. Memorable Teacher: MS. Luck, who turned her back in the girl's bathroom and said "Merry Christmas, girls!!" ********** From: Alec Lewis (1976) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website from Kevin Brooks. Since HS, I finished college at College Park, went to law school in Miami, Fla., stayed in South Florida for 10 years and came back to Maryland in 1990. I''ve been a family law specialist with my own law practice in Rockville since 1995. I have two children. Mike, 16, is a varsity wrestler for Sherwood HS, going into his junior year. Molly, almost 11, just started Farquhar MS, and is an accomplished horseback rider. I'm very pleased to announce that I'm getting married in October to Beth, a wonderful woman I met last August. Our new house in Norbeck Grove will hopefully be ready by late September. We're excitedly awaiting the challenge of merging a total of five kids into a family. I know, a family law attorney should know better, but we'll see what happens. I see lots of former Peary folks who have settled in and around Olney. If anyone knows the whereabouts of Laura Rosen, who taught English in the mid 70s, please let me know. Bob, please know that my thoughts are with you as you fight your way through your mother's ordeal. Many thanks for all you do to keep former Huskies in touch. Alec M. Lewis ********** From: Barbara Brooks Wilson (1983) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 Subject: Update Website - http://www.jbwilco.com (Landing light flashers for homebuilt airplanes), Occupation: Stay at home mom/homeschool teacher/student pilot, Spouse: Jeff, Children: Barbara Lynn 18 (step daughter), Jackie 6 1/2, David 4 1/2 Just wanted to say that I had a great time at our 20yr reunion! It was wonderful to see friends and friends that I knew since kindergarten. Everybody looked great! I was sadden to hear about the death of Stacie Norris though. Looking forward to the 25th or 30th reunion:) ********** From: Diana Pfaehler Umina (1975) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 Subject: Life goes on As you may have known, this past Spring we lost my father, Dwight Pfaehler. Born on November 1st, he truly was a Saint. But as he would have said, "Life goes on" and so it has with our family, Just two weeks ago, we watched as our only daughter married the love of her life. What joy we had....along with lots of tears! It was a dream come true. Wonderful to have my sister, Juliet Retorick(1978) along with her son, David and my mom, Phoebe Pfaehler, join us here outside of Boston for the second wedding reception. The happy couple married in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ("Mormon")temple in Las Vegas by the groom's grandfather. It was a beautiful ceremony. We had a second reception outside of Boston a week later. Also a wonderful time was had by all. Now with all this wedding fun over-and it really was fun!-we anxiously await the arrival of our first grandchild. She, although our son is counting on that one percent chance of a boy, is due September 11th...of all dates. Yikes! Grandparents-where has the time gone? We pray that all will go well for them in Idaho. How life does go on! We know that Dad is watching over us all...including Juliet's sweet husband who is over in Kuwait. Latest word has him back home by the end of this year. Our best to you and your's. May life continue to be good to all of you. ********** From: Diana Sugg (1983) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 Subject: Hi to '83 grads Hi to Peary's '83 grads! I hope everyone had a great time at the reunion. I'd planned to go, but couldn't make it at the last minute. It would have been great to see everyone. I also wanted to send greetings from Sandra Guardado, who is a film editor living in Austin, TX. She received an Emmy for her editing on a documentary of George Wallace that appeared on PBS. She is married, with a 2-year-old son, Dante. I've been living in Baltimore as a reporter for The Baltimore Sun. I won a Pulitzer this year, which has been great, but very overwhelming, with tons of e-mails and letters and speech requests. Thanks to everyone who sent notes. I recently got engaged to a great guy, a doc from Hopkins, and we're buying a house in a historic neighborhood near Baltimore's harbor. I'm so sorry I didn't make it this time, but hope to be there for the next reunion. Cheers, Diana ********** From: Judith Ibach Brookins (1970) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 Subject: Sad News Mrs. Marguerite Ferro passed away last Friday, 8/22, after losing a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. "Margie", as she was best known to the many people who loved her, was the wife of John Ferro, Sr. and the mother of five children, four of them Peary grads: Bonnie Ferro Thomas; my ex, John Ferro (1965); Judy Ferro Rosaasen (1969); Laurie Ferro Carmody (1970-deceased); and Dave Ferro (1973). Many alums may remember Margie from the days that she worked in the Peary cafeteria as a cashier; she treated us all as if we were her own kids and knew each one of us by name. Please keep her family in your prayers as they manage through their loss. She was my "mom" for almost 18 years, and the most wonderful grandma ever to my children and grandchildren, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Judy Ibach Brookins (1970) ********** From: Martha Di Benedetto Hutchinson (1978) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 Subject: Reunion I just wanted to give a big THANKS to Terry and everyone involved in setting up the reunion. It was fantastic. My husband and I had a great time and it was wonderful to see everyone. Hope everyone made it home safe. Bill thanks for the pictures, you did a great job. Hope to see some of you soon, definitely in five years. Take care, Martha ********** From: Robin Sinkoff Barth (1981) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 Subject: Birth Spouse: Craig, Children: Tyler Alexander, 3 years old (4/17/2000) We are excited to announce that Logan Cameron Barth was born on August 4, 2003 weighing 6 lbs. 5 ounces. He joins his big brother Tyler and two dogs, Pretzel and Klondike. ********** From: Janet Mason Weir (1971) Date: Thu, 28 Aug 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website from my nephew. Occupation: home coordinator/mother, Spouse: Janer, Children: 3 Children all grown up Memorable Incidents: FUN times! I'd like to notify any of my old friends that "I AM NOT!" dead! I wrote to a Peary friend who told me that she heard that I had died, I wrote back & asked how I was suppose to have died... she never wrote me back. Therefore, I have to suspect that Peary friends really "do" believe that I am dead..... Here I am, alive & kicking~ LOL! Email me if you remember me..... it will really be me! ********** From: Christopher Jackson (1984) Date: Fri, 29 Aug 2003 Subject: Update I knew about the website.. I used to visit MSO when I lived in DC. My Website - =http://ww.goodnewsjail.org (International Prison Ministries organization. Click on Frederick, MD and you will see me.), Occupation: Prison Chaplain, Spouse: Carolyn Memorable Incidents: The SuperFreak Assembly. The Muscle Man (Mr. Peary) Competition. The morning announcements. Since High School: Worked for NationsBank from 1987 until 1999. Got married in 1994. Graduted from Washington Bible College in 1995. Became an ordained Minister in 1999. Became a Prison Chaplain in 2000 at the Frederick County Sheriff's Office's Adult Detention Center. Future Plans: Probably to relocate to DC to start a Baptist Church in the next five years. Memorable Teacher: Mr. Warwick Hill helped me to pronounce the word "corp" correctly. It's not pronounced "corpse." I did the morning announcements for serveral semesters and kept getting that wrong. Other alums I know about? Peter Ling (1984) is in Rockville off of Viers Mill Road across from St. Judes. ********** From: Teresa Cross Wilson (1978) Date: Fri, 29 Aug 2003 Subject: Class of 1978 The Class of '78 reunion book will be available in the next few months. The reunion book, by LifeTouch National School Studios, Inc., includes pictures, names, and addresses of attendees and pictures from the reunion in a soft cover (think Junior High yearbook) booklet. If you are interested in purchasing because you did not do so at the reunion or were unable to attend, please contact LifeTouch at 1-800-321-1595. Reference Job # 23820--the cost is $25 payable by Visa or MasterCard. ********** From: Grant Wagner (1980) Date: Sat, 30 Aug 2003 Subject: Update After taking a year off from the toils of a everyday job, I have started a new role as SVP, Sales for a Reston, VA company called Wireless Matrix, Inc. I have no idea what it is I am selling, but then again, what salesman really does. All I know is my handicap is going to suffer a lot. ********** From: Mariana Haynes (1970) Date: Sat, 30 Aug 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website from a fellow alumna. Occupation: Director of Research (Education) Memorable Incident: When Dr. Dunn called me into his office and asked if I intended to start a revolution. Since High School: Traveling, studying, living abroad, and working (way too much). Future Plans: Hard to say. Memorable Teacher: Vincent Gibbs - extraordinary, creative individual. ********** From: Lynn Draize Jones (1980) Date: Sun, 31 Aug 2003 Subject: Keep my 2 children in your Prayers...please! Hello- I just wanted to ask my fellow Peary alums to keep my 2 children in their Prayers. My son Kevin Hurlbrink (22 yrs) and daughter Kelly Hurlbrink(20 yrs) are both deployed to Iraq for the next 6 months to 1 yr. They are both Airborne soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division, out of Ft Bragg, N.C. I do know they will both be somewhere in western Iraq... Please if your religous denomination has a Prayer List, could you include them on it. Many Thanks !!! Please remember our U.S. Military members and their famlies, it's a scarey time for them all. Thanks--Lynn (Draize) Jones ********** From: Nanette Joannini Sword Date: Mon, 1 Sep 2003 Subject: Update How I found out about the website? Searched for "R.E.P.H.S. reunion" after my uncle said someone was trying to find me via my maiden name. (?). Occupation: Computer Operator/Quality Control, Children: Teeva Marie age 26 Memorable Incidents: I was an extremely shy wall-flower in school, not in any of the "clicks". The only thing that stands out for me were the dances because my friends and I LOVED to dance. Since High School: Some college, LOTS of life experience, married and divorced twice, single now for 17 years and very happy. Have a good job with Osceola County [FL] government, a nice little house... God has been VERY good to me. Future Plans: Christian ministry or missionary work. Memorable Teacher: Mr. Weinstein because he truly tried his best to help me. ********** From: louisa girogio wenzel (1981) Date: Wed, 3 Sep 2003 Subject: Update How I found out about the website? Barbara Gold Bryan told me about it. Occupation: full-time mom/part-time wedding singer, Spouse: John, Children: Stephen is 15, David is 13, Joey is 9, and Laura is 5 Memorable Incidents: No incidents, really, but I do have fond memories of the musicals I used to be in. I played Goldie in "Two By Two" opposite Brad Oscar. Since High School: After graduating from Catholic University in '84 with a degree in vocal performance, I got married and have been raising my family full-time ever since. I only recently started singing again. Future Plans: I plan to continue singing and I hope to expand my bookings in this area. Memorable Teachers: Mr. Peerless was my inspiration for going into music. Although, he tried mightly to discourage me. Mr. Gibb was quite memorable also. There was a certain science teacher whose name escapes me that was fantastic also. Mr. L......? Those of you who remember me know that Carl Grant was my best friend. After High School we drifted apart, and the news of his death was devastating to me. I don't even know where he is buried, and would love to know so that I can finally say goodbye in person. If anyone knows, I'd appreciate it if you would tell me. ********** From: Colleen Jacques Callis (1984) Date: Wed, 3 Sep 2003 Subject: Class of 1984 Class of 1984 reunion committee is looking for updated mailing and e-mail addresses of our classmates. Please submit any new addresses or addresses of those we might have lost contact with to colleen_callis@yahoo.com. (Colleen Jacques) Thank you! You may also update on the MSO site for Class of 1984 ("Sign-up/Update"), and I will receive the information. The planning for our 20th is under way! Colleen (Jacques) Callis ********** From: Edward Bach (1978) Date: Thu, 4 Sep 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website from another class of '78 member. Occupation: Software Quality Engineer Memorable Incident: John Perrin trying to talk to Eric Litman about Jesus, while Eric was trying to talk to John about Mamboulou. Since High School: Residence - Dublin, Ireland since 1981 Education: B.A. (Maths), The Johns Hopkins University, 1981 PhD (Maths), Trinity College, Dublin (Dublin University), 1988 Employment: Software Quality Engineer, Computer Applied Techniques (CAPTEC), Malahide, Co. Dublin Marital Status: Single, never married Have settled into life in Dublin, I have the best of both worlds really, because my job has sent me a few times to work on the Continent. I'm embarassed to say I haven't been back to the U.S. in over 22 years, my whole family (including deceased parents) is in Dublin now. I don't think about Peary much, the school closed after we had given my yearbook to them for their archive, but I have been in very occasional touch with John Bell, who is much more successful and interesting than I am (although, ladies, he's married). Memorable Teachers: Clarke, Steele, Proett, Hill, Tgani, Gibbs, Bonaiuto, and last but not least, Ms. Tamm ********** To: Faye Stedman (1980) Date: Fri, 5 Sep 2003 Subject: Update How I found out about the website? stumbled upon it the other night while checking out a link from Classmates. Occupation: Word Processor Memorable Incidents: Marching Band was a boatload more fun than people thought it was. ("One time at Band Camp...." Allyson Hannigan, American Pie) Since High School: Absolutely everything from one end of the spectrum to the other. It's lucky I lived through it, which coincidentally I heard there was a rumor that I didn't. ??? Future Plans: Hopefully way too much to write here but, being a Christian, it's bound to be a lot healthier and more productive. Memorable Teachers: Ms. Dawson - Best English class and teacher ever. She got me interested in creative writing. Mr. Black - Cannot think of anyone else who could make Algebra palatable to my number-feeble mind. Mr. Gibbs - No one else could have challenged our students to stretch dramatically the way he did. And he never patronized them or us as an audience with silly theatre. They were hand-picked pieces. Mr. Boyd - He was all about connecting students with history. The fact that I still remember some of it is no small thing. As I told a classmate: Rumors of my demise have been greatly exaggerated. Also, I want to thank the Staff who put this website together. It is awesome in every way and most likely the only way many Alumni ever connect. Thanks Guys! [you're welcome, Faye! -- Bob] ********** From: John Seng (1975) Date: Sat, 6 Sep 2003 Subject: My Ride For Cancer Research Dear Family and Friends: I'm asking for your help in a special quest to support cancer research. As you know, my brother Will (1977) was diagnosed with stage IV pancreas cancer earlier this year. More recently, breast cancer has struck another family member, this time on my wife Christine's side, my nephew Tom Zamer's wife, Susan. They live with their three children in Clarksville, MD. To do what I can to help promote cancer research and treatment, I recently registered to ride in the local Washington, DC-area leg of Lance Armstrong's nationwide Tour of Hope* culminating this October 18, a Saturday, on the White House Ellipse with a personal appearance from Lance himself. For me, the bike ride will be my "up close and personal" way to confront this cancer that has attacked our families. I will ride in support of Will Seng and Susan Zamer, and have already signed the Tour of Hope "Cancer Promise" in their names. My goals are simple: Finish the 100K ride, and raise as much money as possible! Here is my personal Web site for communicating about the Tour and the opportunity for you ­right now to support the Lance Armstrong Foundation's ride for cancer research funding. Please click on: https://secure.laf.org/Donations/TOH_Donate_amount.cfm?sid=200096395 Whether you decide to give or not, please at least browse around this site and sign the Cancer Promise. It's free and will mean a lot to cancer survivors we know and don't know, and those who love them. I met Lance Armstrong during his visit last year to Capitol Hill to urge greater funding for cancer research. Thank you for your time and consideration. John * In the interest of full disclosure, my firm was hired by the Tour's sponsor, Bristol-Myers Squibb (makers of the medications that saved Lance's life), to publicize the campaign. We do not make any money from contributions to the Tour of Hope. All donations go to the Lance Armstrong Foundation. ********** From: Joan Stillwagon Jones Date: Mon, 8 Sep 2003 Subject: Debbie Moore Debbie Moore Richardson passed away in April from cancer. She was a graduating member of the class of 1971. ********** From: Joel Hillhouse (1977) Date: Fri, 12 Sep 2003 Subject: Update Occupation: Professor, Spouse: Christine, Children: Linden Alana 5 y.o Memorable Incidents: Wrestling team's amazing record. I was a member of that team. Coach Black was the best. Since High School: Too much to list. Mostly related to nature. Future Plans: Live well, ha. Memorable Teachers: Mr. Hill. He taught me discipline and love of learning. He changed my life in many ways. Mr. Imhoff and Mr. Clark because they showed that teaching can be fun. I emulate all of them as a teacher to this day. Other alums I know about? Karen Siegel (my twin sister) lives in Castine, Maine with her husband Jeff. They have a very successful software business (recently won an award for Palm Pilot product of the year. My mother, Mary Hillhouse knows where Thomas Chang and Ed Rollins are. ********** From: Christine Waters Smith (1980) Date: Sat, 13 Sep 2003 Subject: Mrs. Anne Gill September 11th will always be a sad day for all Americans. It it especially sad this year because the Gill Family lost their mother on this day. Anne Elizabeth Gill (mother of Pete, Ruth, David, Tricia, and Jeannie) passed away at Frederick Memorial hospital. Anyone who knew Mrs. Gill also knew her as kind, easy-going, and fun-loving. She had a heart of gold. I, myself, have nothing but fond memories of her. She will be truly missed. Condolences for her children and grandchildren from the Ron Smith family as well as the Waters family. ********** From: Gail Friel (1974) Date: Sun, 14 Sep 2003 Subejct: Update How I found out about the website? Found it ages ago while surfing on the net. Occupation: Program Specialist and Gr. Home Counselor Memorable Incidents: People getting duct-taped to the anchors outside of Mrs. Hoovers class. Attending the Bible studies with Brian McLaren in the school library. Attending a retreat in '73 and Dennis Catron talking to his socks...and Ken Queen telling me he has always been "that way." A great group of people...still consider them my friends today. Since High School: I received my degree in Therapeutic Recreation. I worked my way through college mostly by working in group homes. Now I work two jobs. One in a group home setting for the Jewish Foundation for group homes. The other job is as a Program Specialist for the Arc of Montgomery County. I have been with both agencies for at least 16 years. Future Plans: To continue what I am doing. Memorable Teachers: As always for Mr. Boteler, telling me that people aren't bad just their actions. Mrs. Hale, for befriending me and seeing me beyond the lousy marks on the vocabulary quizzes... ********** From: Bill Shoemaker (1979) Date: Mon, 15 Sep 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website while searching Classmates.com. Occupation: Police Officer, Spouse: Amy, Children: Katie 12, Jessica 2, Patrick 4mos Memorable Incidents: The passing of a friend - Kevin Lynch. Skipping school to hang out by the lake. Drinking too much at Pat Dube's house and having to be picked up off the street corner and taken home. Thank you again! (You know who I mean!) Since High School: Studied Criminal Justice at the University of North Rockville (Montgomery College). Then joined the Police Department where I am assigned to Special Operations and Training. Got married and I liked it so much I did it again! Future Plans: Enjoy life. Time flies by so fast now that If we don't stop and think about it another 25 years will be here and gone before we know it. Memorable Teacher: Coach Cino for his commitment and concern for others. ********** From: Judith (Judi) Miller Sills (1975) Date: Mon, 15 Sep 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website by accident. Occupation: clinical pharmacist, Spouse: Matthew, Children: Evan age 18, Adam age 11 Since High School: Went to college and graduate school. Returned to Rockville 1984-1986 while working for FDA and never ran into anyone from our class. Have been working in the pharmaceutical industry for almost 20 years. ********** From: Rusty Chester (1970) Date: Wed, 17 Sep 2003 Subject: Death of SAM BELCHER, former Peary Teacher On Monday morning, 8 September, Sam R. Belcher, suffered a heart attack and passed away at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, MD. Mr. Belcher taught Industrial Arts at Peary from 1967-1969. Upon leaving Peary he taught at Paint Branch, Sherwood, and Edison High Schools, until he retired in 1996. During his retirement he taught boating safety classes and was a flotilla commander with the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He and his wife also enjoyed time at their condo in Venice, FL. Mr. Belcher is survived by his wife, Becky; two children from his first marriage; four step-children; 13 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Mr. Belcher touched the lives of many students and we are all much better individuals because of him. ********** From: JANET MARIE FRANCIS YOUNG (1968) Date: Thu, 25 Sep 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website from a friend. Occupation: Project Purchasing Agent/Marriott International, Spouse: Jim Young (class of '66), Jim's Occupation: Service Manager, Children: Bryan age 31, Grandchildren: Elizabeth age 13, Christopher age 10 Since High School: Enjoying life, a successful career, married 33 years and enjoying time with family and friends. Future Plans: A healthy and successful retirement. ********** From: Olga Godoy Czekalski (1984) Date: Thu, 25 Sep 2003 Subject: Birth Announcement - Eric Hanson (1983) & Monica Godoy Hanson (1985) Eric Hanson (class of 1983) and Monica Godoy Hanson (1985) are the proud parents of a beautiful little boy! Luke Peter Hanson arrived on September 24, 2003 at 8:52 AM. He weighed in at 8 lbs. 12 ounces and was 20 inches long. Erica Brooke (7 1/2) is Luke's big sister! ********** From: Scott Wood (1973) Date: Thu, 25 Sep 2003 Subject: LIFE AS A NAVAL AVIATOR Since high school, I went to the Naval Academy and graduated in 1977 (see Jul 03 MSO Newsletter). I became a naval aviator. Below is my second instalment to MSO Newsletter about my experiences in pursuit of Naval Aviation. Just a comment on the 1973 30 year Reunion: It was a great time. I thoroughly enjoyed getting together with my classmates and talking about old times; new times; past events and present events. No doubt about it, the class of '73 was unique. We were a tight group that achieved alot. Definitely set the foundation for future successes and endeavors. Coach Brace - I enjoyed our conversations regarding football experiences and leadership. My only regret during the reunion was not enough time to visit with each of you. I look forward to our next gathering. NAVAL AVIATION: Spent two years in Pensacola, FL learning how to fly T-34C Turbo Mentors; selected for the helicopter pipeline, flew the TH-57 Jet Ranger; H-1 Huey. Got married to a Peary alumni (later divorced). Obtained my Navy Wings of Gold in 1979 and was selected to fly the RH-53D Super Sea Stallion - the largest helicopter in the free world. Moved to Chesapeake, VA for 3.5 years; became an Aircraft Commander in the Sea Stallion went on deployments (Key West Fl; Nova Scotia, Canada; England, Scotland, Rota Spain; Lisbon Portugal; Belgium - Tripiest beer made by the monks is really good - Athens, Greece; Izmir Turkey; Azores; Italy). Flew Helicopters cross country (FL, LA, OK, TX, AZ - chased coyotes and flew a circle around a big crater - NM, CA). Had a son - Christopher. Moved to Warminster, PA to the Naval Air Development Center - flew more helicopters doing Research and Development for the Navy. Lived there for 3 years. Deployed to the Bahamas, San Diego, CA; Jacksonville, FL. Had two daughters (Rebecca and Danica - great children love them dearly). Moved to Oahu, HI. Flew H-53^Òs at VC-1; chased whales at low altitude; deployed to the Big Island; went to Koholave, and Maui. Moved to Lansing, MI in 1987, took on a Naval Recruiting job; got divorced; became a single parent of 3. In Dec 1987, I gave up my active commission to raise the children and joined the Naval Reserves. More to come in a future MSO article. Until then...have a great day. ********** From: Christina Swift Dodd (1979) Date: Sat, 27 Sep 2003 Subject: Update High School Memories: After I nursed my baby at 2 am, I could not fall asleep and an incident came to mind that I had not thought about in over twenty years. My high school graduation day - a day for joy and celebration. It was also the day The Midnight Sun issue containing senior wills was distributed - only mine was not printed! My day quickly filled with shock, pain, and sorrow. Waves of pain and sorrow reverberated throughout the summer for me from this one incident. Now a mother myself, I now realize how my pain caused my mother pain and heartbreak because she could not alleviate my suffering. How we hate to see the people we love suffering! I believe a student on the newspaper staff intentionally withheld publication of my senior will. Whoever you are, I hope you have grown into a kinder person and I hope you teach your children kindness. JOYFUL NEWS: My husband returned safely from Kuwait in March. May 22, our fifth child, Patrick, was born healthy and weighing 9 lb. 11 oz. In July, Alex and I celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary. Congratulations to the San Severino family on the birth of their ninth child, John Paul! PAIN: Hundreds of thousands, possibly millions, of people suffer in silent agony from participating in an abortion. Unfortunately, a large majority of women endure greater emotional and mental suffering AFTER an abortion. You are not alone! Each of us can offer compassion and mercy to others. Isn't that what life is all about? [Editor's note: If you need add'l information on resources regarding this issue, which was not included in this alumni news newsletter, please contact Christina directly] ********** From: Jody Steinberg Brown Date: Sat, 27 Sep 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website from my sister, Lauren Levy class of 1983. Occupation: High School Teacher, Spouse: Matt Children: Danica age 4, Jake Dog age 12, Sarah Dog age 1 Memorable Incidents: putting 6 beers in the coke machines; gymnastics team; gymkana-style shows in 1982; tech crew antics and friends Since High School: Graduated from U of M, moved to San Diego, taught high school, got masters, got married, stayed 13 years and then moved to Maui this summer (2003) Future Plans: Who cares? We live on Maui now! Memorable Teacher: Mrs. Rosen, English teacher: She had the greatest combination of caring, rigor, respect, and high expectations. ********** From: Patti Eseltine Lertora (1973) Date: Sat, 27 Sep 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website from Jean Young, another alumni. Web site - http://www.reelriot.com (Charter Boat Fishing), Occupation: Assistive Technology User Specialist, Spouse: William, Children: Shannon Patricia 11/22/81, Jessica Dawn 10/25/82 Memorable Incidents: Winning football games and friends Since High School: I am working for the Frederick County Public School System. Enjoying my kids and boating. Memorable Teachers/Staff: Dr. Dunn, sitting in the office. Mable Thomas, ditto. Glad I found you/MSO! ********** From: Greg Zehnacker (1976) Date: Sun, 28 Sep 2003 Subject: Parents 50th Anniversary Raymond and Charlotte Zehnacker, parents of Mike ('72) and Greg ('76) celebrated their 50 year anniversary on Fri Sept 26th. An intimate family dinner was held on Sat Sept 27th at the Willow Tree Inn in Montgomery Village. The Zehnackers were surprised to walk out their front door to find a limo waiting to drive them to their dinner party. The Zehnackers were married in Silver Spring, Md and have been Montgomery County residents since their marriage-Raymond, a native of Pughkeepsie NY and Charlotte, of Baltimore MD met at the former N.O.L. facility on New Hampshire Ave in White Oak after Ray was stationed there after his assignment during the Korean War with the USMC. Raymond is retired from the Fed Gov but continues to work part-time as a Montgomery County school bus aide and Charlotte has been a housewife since shortly after their marriage. To the delight of those in attendance, the Zehnackers shared pictures of their wedding and honeymoon at their anniversary party. ********** From: Susan Moulton Witkowski (1984) Date: Tue, 30 Sep 2003 Subject: Update I found out about the website while surfing the Net. Occupation: Classroom Assistant for Alternative High School, Spouse: Joe, Children: Daughter Jenna Rose age 9 going on 40. Memorable Incidents: Mr. Clarke's history class was always an adventure. Since High School: I went to nursing school at East Carolina University. I met my husband, Joe, the old fashion way -- in a bar (Houlihan's in Georgetown.) I moved to Pittsburgh, PA and we married in December 1990. Joe landed a job with Martin Marietta in Baltimore and I worked as a Provider Relations Rep. for Travelers Insurance. My daughter, Jenna, was born in March of 1994. I gave up my career to be a full time Mom. We moved to St. Louis, Missouri in 1996 for another job opportunity for my husband. This was suppose to be temporary, but look what happened! Now he is happily employed by Dr. Pepper / 7up (yes, we get free soda.) I went back to work part time at my daughter's elementary school when she was in first grade. Now Jenna is in fourth grade and on 4 competitive dance lines and part of our district's Talented and Gifted program (I'm a proud Mom.) I am still working part time, but now for an Alternative High School. This has been very challenging, yet extremely rewarding. Future Plans: I would like to eventually return to the East Coast to be closer to family, but have learned from experience to find happiness where the job is located. *********************************** *********** QUICK TAKES *********** *********************************** David Chris Buppert - Class of 1967 Occupation: Computer Programmer, Children: Kristy 1981, Megan 1984 Michelle Hinds - Class of 1984 Occupation: Physical Therapist, Children: Devon age 3 Mark K. Lewis - Class of 1983 I found out about the website through a google search. Occupation: Attorney, Spouse: Donna, Children: Justin age 11, Marissa age 9 Barbara Smith DeBonte - Class of 1971 I found out about the website from Roz Rubin. Occupation: Substitute teacher - elementary, Spouse: Lorin, Children: Mike 15, Sarah 13 Debbie Roberts - Class of 1967 Occupation: Educator Susan Asbacher Keffer (1971) Occupation: Assistant Program Manager, Spouse: George, Children: Thomas 29, Brian 26, Kathleen 24; Grandchildren: Alexander 2 Susan Cissell Boyd - Class of 1971 How I found out about the website? Word of Mouth. Occupation: Radiologic Technologist, Spouse: Patrick, Children: Lauren 25, Leslie 21 Steve Emel - Class of 1972 I found out about the website from my brothers. Occupation: Office Manager sigrid brewary wallace - Class of 1973 I found out about the website from jean young. Spouse: david, Children: sandy - 23, david - 14, naomi - 12 Lisa Des Roches Coleman - Class of 1982 Spouse: Tim (1976), Tim's Occupation: commercial pool construction, Children: Jessica-17, Tom-16, Jennifer-11, Jimmy-9. We survived Hurricane Isabel after moving here only 3 weeks before it hit. Our house made it but we lost all 25 of our trees. Power was returned 3 days later but the kids didn't go back to school for a week!!! Tim (1976) & Lisa Des Roche Coleman (1982) Just wanted to let you all know that we've moved. After living in our Frederick County home for 17 years, we've moved to the Virginia Beach area in Chesapeake Virginia. Bob Dietsch - Class of 1971 I found out about the website from a Roz Rubin e-mail on classmates.com. Occupation: Project Manager Mike Kelley - Class of 1966 Occupation: Retired, Spouse: Diane ********************************************************************** END OF TEXT - MIDNIGHT SUN ONLINE - VOLUME 8, NUMBER 1 Articles for the next issue are due October 30, 2003 ********************************************************************** Copyright 2003 The Midnight Sun Online - http://www.pearyhs.org **********************************************************************