************************************************************ MIDNIGHT SUN ONLINE The Online Newsletter for Robert E. Peary High School Alumni Volume 9, Number 6 January 2005 MSO WEBSITE - http://www.pearyhs.org ************************************************************ INTRODUCTION Happy New Year Huskies, In this issue... intro/general items and 2005 reunion plans/updates, classmate updates, and condolence notices. Unfortunately, there are many "sad news" notices in this issue (end of newsletter). That said, please remember that MSO cannot always send class-specific notices for timely items, e.g. funeral or memorial service arrangements; however, they are posted on the main page of the website immediately. REUNIONS IN 2005.... CLASS OF 1970: No known progress/news to announce yet CLASS OF 1975: MARK YOUR CALENDARS - IT'S THE BIG 3-0! The Peary HS class of 1975 has preliminarily scheduled a 30-year reunion. An informal get-together Friday evening, September 16 and the big event Saturday night, September 17. Will probably be held in the Gaithersburg/Rockville area. We'd love to see you and your spouse/significant other/friend. John Seng is coordinating a reunion committee. Anyone interested in participating, whether you live nearby or in California, may RSVP to John at jjs@spectrumscience.com. Right now, there is only one woman on the committee, and a social event organized mainly by men might frighten people. Comments, ideas, issues, considerations all welcome. CLASS OF 1980: Reunion planners and local (Rockville or vicinity) chairperson(s) needed to coordinate the 25 year reunion. If you are interested in heading up the reunion committee or assisting in planning, please contact your MSO online class coordinator, Janet Peters at jpeters415@adelphia.net or your 1980 Class President Beth Sowers Chirico at amytj@ptd.net. Janet and Beth are not local to the Rockville area - local party planning talent is desperately needed for a 25-Year event! CLASS OF 1985/WHEATON: In-progress, contact Chris von Stein REUNIONS IN 2006: Class of 1966: Planning now - contact Gale Senseman Privette Class of 1971: Frederick MD, Date TBA Class of 1976: Planning now - contact Maureen Difulgo Bladen THE "PEARY" AUDITORIUM: Never had a chance to see the auditorium (post 1974/1975)? Like Celtic Music? See Ken Roseman's (1969) submission in this newsletter about a concert at the, now, Berman Academy's Ely Auditorium on Monday February 7th! 1981 CLASSMATE: Catch Lisa Salsitz-Talmud (aka Allie Raye) on NBC's E.R., Thursday February 24th at 10pm, as surgical nurse "Lorraine." 1980 CLASSMATE: Do you ever wonder who that guy in the suit is speaking at every notable NASA press conference? It's none other than our own Andy Dantzler, who is Deputy (and Acting) Director of NASA's Solar System Division in Washington DC. ALUMNI WEB LINKS: A reminder to check the web links page occasionally. There are a lot of alumni-owned businesses there... with discounts offered for Peary alums, e.g. the Harvey Hottel boys (20% discount), or free bagels and mobile optician services. This is the ONE-page on MSO for links to alumni businesses (provided as a courtesy since MSO is not a promotional site)... also where classmates' personal websites are linked from if you're looking for recent photos of old friends and their families. THANK YOU: Supporters this past month..... Barbara Nicolaisen Van Dyke (1974), Chris Perlick (1975) & Kathy Norton Perlick (1976), Jackie Hewitt Stock (1980), Maria Camarano (1981), Scott Adamson (1977), Sheree (Seale) and Eric Wenger (both 1979), Sharon Marcus Elswick (1970), Janice Stillwagon Lynch (1973), Kelly Morris Selt (1984); and to all of our monthly and quarterly pledges. Supporters of MSO since the start (1996) are listed/credited online at the site. For information on how you can help support the MSO, simply click on "Donations" at the site, which will redirect you to a secure server where the instructions and options may be found. Directly, the secure page is at https://id267.securedata.net/pearyhs/donation.htm Stay warm, and have a Happy Valentine's Day, Bob Lau, Editor/Webmaster - blau@viawest.net The Midnight Sun Online - Robert E. Peary High School P.S. If you wish to directly reply or comment, please don't quote the entire newsletter back. Create a new e-mail to blau@viawest.net, and always include your grad year and name in the correspondence (i.e. we don't know who "xyz3a4533@yourisp.com" is without searching through all of our records). And PLEASE use the forms online for changes so that the updates/data go to the correct class for e-mail and mailing address changes for your class records. Do not send them directly to MSO. The forms online are set up to go to the right people, and saves us time from manually forwarding your info to the appropriate class organizers. ********************************************************************* From: Andy Rigterink (1980) Date: Fri, 24 Dec 2004 Subject: Update Occupation: U. S. Navy, Children: Joshua 17, Ian 15, Lora 13 Since High School: 23 years now in the Navy traveling the world, defending the freedoms of many nations all the while not being seen or detected by the enemy :<))) Future Plans: retire when the fun runs out, get a GS job and stay in the loop within Naval Special Warfare Janet thanks for your involvement in getting the reunion going and please pass on many thanks to all the others working with you. Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas) from Hawaii. ********** From: Chris Parrot Hoban (1971) Date: Fri, 24 Dec 2004 Subject: Update Hi Everyone, After living in the same area all my life, I've moved to Palm Beach. My husband and I had a mid-life crisis, wondered why we lived in the suburbs with no kids; he quit his job and started his own company; we sold the house in 4 days and moved to Palm Beach to live the resort lifestyle. We love it. We're renting an apartment with a 78 ft. wrap-around balcony on the Intracoastal while we decide where/what to buy. Pinch me. ********** From: Susie Sherwood Andrews (1975) Date: Sat, 25 Dec 2004 Subject: Update Occupation: Housekeeper/property manager, Spouse: Tommy, Children: Erik-28, Ricky-23, Andy-22; Grandchildren: Andy-7, Ricky-4, A.J.-3, Andy Jr-1&1/2, John-14, Jessica-12, Brookelyn-7, #8 due in June. Memorable Incidents: I used to love the beautiful gymnastic shows. Since High School: I have done a million things since graduating. I Lived in the FL Keys for 12 yrs. and ended up here in Gods country [N.C.] in the Mountains (LOVE IT!). I got married AGAIN 2 years ago in December. I now work for a lot of nice & wealthy people in an upscale community called Highlands. Future Plans: Keep working and enjoying my family! Memorable Teacher: Miss Tigani was a great science teacher! ********** From: Robert Van Houten (1977) Date: Sat, 25 Dec 2004 Subject: grand parents just a short note to inform everyone that on december 8,2004 at 7:38 pm my wife and i became grand parents fpr the first time.my son and his girlfriend had a daughter named tessa renee she was 7lbs and they reside in boise idaho.so i guess you can say we got an early christmas present and it was one of the most wonderful kind we could receive. merry christmas and happy new year to all. the van houtens ********** From: Jackie Hewitt Stock (1980) Date: Wed, 29 Dec 2004 Subject: 20th college homecoming reunion Hey, all you other 1984 JMU graduates (a.k.a. Danny, Jon, Mike, and Craig) - we missed you at our 20th college homecoming reunion! Gordon and I had to party without you! Maybe, we can all make it to the next one. In case you haven't been back lately - JMU and Harrisonburg have changed drastically, but the tailgating, football game, half-time band performance, etc. were still lots of fun. ********** From: Eric Jensen (1972) Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Web site - www.broadwayinternet.com (One of my business websites), Occupation: Attorney and IT Consultant, Spouse: Madeline Burkitt Jensen, Children: Burkitt William 24 (3rd year med student), Margaret Amelia 22 (RN John Sealy Hospital Galveston) Memorable Incidents: I am always interested in my friends and acquaintances from Earle Wood and Parkland Junior High Schools Since High School: Married 28 years. I am a general practitioner attorney at law in Texas, a Information Consultant, a performing guitarist-vocalist-musician, sing Tenor in Messiah every year; horse rasing and stage events. Future Plans: More of the same I suspect. Other alums I know about? I wish you could find my old musician pal Scot Gingras. ********** From: Donna Dawson Edwards (Staff) Date: Mon, 03 Jan 2005 Subject: Thanks I just wanted to say how much I appreciate this news letter. (I do miss seeing Bob on Homicide!) I do not remember half the people of course or even read every detail, but it is fun not to have lost touch completely. I am still teaching! I had a baby, you may recall, two weeks after the last Peary graduation in '84. Hayes is now 20 and a junior at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. I took four years of maternity leave then went back half time - I have been half time ever since...most recently at Richard Montgomery HS where I teach the 9th grade Pre IB kids. I plan to retire in a couple of years. Mr. Cino is still here... and helping Mike Bonavia [1976] coach football!! I am friends with several other teachers. Just wanted to say hello. Sincerely, Donna Edwards (Dawson) ********** From: Phylis Burbrink Veillon (1965) Date: Tue, 4 Jan 2004 Subject: Keeping in touch I formally retired from the University of Maryland the end of August. But I've been appointed Professor Emerita and still have an office on campus. I continue to work with graduate students in nutrition. I'm also a Master Gardener intern in Anne Arundel county. This is something I never had time for when I was working full time. Also I watch my grandson Jack two mornings a week. This is an awesome experience, getting to discover the world again through a new pair of eyes. Hope you have a wonderful 2005. Phylis Veillon (Burbrink) ********** From: Debbie Asbacher (1976) Date: Wed, 5 Jan 2005 Subject: Update I found out about the website while browsing. Occupation: Project Manager Memorable Incidents: It was a great school. Lots of good people. Since High School: Moved to Arizona. Ran into Carlos Arias in a K-Mart! Memorable Teacher: Ms Dawkins was a great English teacher. ********** From: Steve Sims (1979) Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Occupation: Benefits Service Manager, Spouse: Karla Memorable Incidents: Playing on the golf team, going to horse races and Vern Caswell throwing out a full six pack just because the car started to slide in the snow. Since High School: I have been working in the Pension Administration business since graduating from Towson in 1984. Started out working for the Sheet Metal Workers National Pension Fund then moved to Atlanta in 1999 to work for Northern Trust Retirement Consultants which was purchased by Hewitt Associates in 2003. Finally got married in 2002. Hobbies include golf, traveling (mostly to Las Vegas, Deep Creek Lake and Myrtle Beach), home improvement projects. Future Plans: More of the same. Karla and I are very comfortable down here in Atlanta. Hopefully, retire at 50. ********** From: Veronica Ann Rancont (1986/Wheaton) Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Occupation: Firefighter/Paramedic, Significant Other: Robert M. Ferguson (Firefighter/Paramedic) Memorable Incidents: Brian Hardaway's untimely death, my first and only year at Peary, all the friends I made. Since High School: I attended U of MD and earned a B.S. in Kinesiology in 2000, worked in rehabilitation and private gyms as a personal trainer, have been a volunteer firefighter/E.M.T. since January 1997, became a Paramedic and secured employment with Anne Arundel County in 2004. Future Plans: I plan to marry and start a family, continue to pursue career opportunities with technical rescue and HAZMAT operations within the fire department and to continue physically training clients and fellow firefighters. Memorable Teachers: Benny Green - an outstanding musician, teacher and great friend; Laura Rosen - always bright and cheerful, turned me onto Shakespeare; Duane Black - a very kind man and patient educator Would love to help out in any way with reunion plans... ********** From: Cindy Bonner Alderton (1982) Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2005 Subject: Update The Peary website... Have known about it for years... My website - http://www.CindyAlderton.com (Residential Real Estate Sales and Services), Occupation: REALTOR, Spouse: Steve (Montgomery County Firefighter/Paramedic), Children: Chelsea - almost 20! Connor - almost 16! Since High School: Was a police officer for ten years and volunteered in rape crisis intervention; co-owned and operated construction company with my husband; stay-at-home Mom; now building my real estate business for the last two years! Future Plans: Continue building my business and making real estate investments...retire in the next 5-7 years! Memorable Teachers: Looking back now, I am fortunate enough to realize that each and every teacher left some sort of positive impression on me.. Would love to hear from anyone and catch up a little, drop me a line anytime! ********** From: Cindy Bonner Alderton (1982) Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2005 Subject: Mary Beavers - Class of 82 Hi All! Have a friend who is searching for Mary Beavers; wondering if anyone knows her whereabouts or has a contact? Last we knew, she was in Towson for Nursing program and getting married afterwards (possibly). Her married name would have been Matlock. Don't see any info on her on the alumni list and the only other contact I know who would have info is Connie Kight East and she is also an "unknown" :( Any help greatly appreciated! Cindy ********** From: Eileen Brown Carter (1965) Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2005 Subject: Hello Class of 1965 Now that most of you got my little "test" email to check to see who is working and who changed their email address. Noticed I got a few responses and was wondering if the rest did not receive my email hope so. Please update email addresses etc so I can keep track of where you are so if we have another reunion then you can be on the current list. Notice some of you also have Classmates.Com membership - that's alright too but please keep up-to-date on your main emails and stuff. Not to be left out I also snailed mailed postcard to the ones that have no emails or their emails had been disconnected not working. You are probably wondering why I bother..... because I volunteered to keep our information up-to-date and I always follow through with tasks and try to do them to the best of my ability. My prayers go to all that are having health problems personal problems and just plain problem problems. I guess I have rambled on long enough and Bob keep up your good work and thank you so much for updating all classmates' emails every day. To everyone who has so far responded to my emails thank you. Keep well and have a great New Year! Eileen ********** From: LANCE GREENBLAT (1968) Date: Thu, 13 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Occupation: OPERATIONS MANAGER, Spouse: MAUREEN (ELEM. TEACHER), Children: ABBEY GREENBLAT LEASE 25, CAROLINE GREENBLAT 23; Grandchildren: NONE YET Memorable Incidents: SR. TRIP TO EXPO, LEAVING EXPO WHEN THE SUBWAY STRIKE ENDED AND WALKING AROUND DOWNTOWN. ORDERING PIZZA IN FRENCH Since High School: DIVORCED IN 1998 AND REMARRIED IN 2003. STARTED FRESH OIL, INC., IN 1997 AND AND SOLD OUT TO TEXACO IN 1999. Future Plans: CONTINUE WORKING A FEW MORE YEARS AND TRAVEL AS MUCH AS I CAN. IF YOU HAVEN'T BEEN, BELIZE IS BEATIFUL. Memorable Teachers: MR GIBBS, MR THOMAS ********** From: Barbara Powell (1979) Date: Fri, 14 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Website - www.barbarapowell.com (corporate marketing servioces). Occupation: Technology and Communications, Significant Other: Greg (VP Software Development), Children: 1 dog... Sophie Jean, a Jack Russell mix (see www.sophiejean.net), Grandchildren: None. Sophie is spayed. Since High School: Bob Lau keeps reminding me that I never did an update, so here goes. The up-to-the-minute news is that my fiance and I are planning to elope in February on a snowboarding trip to Keystone, CO, where we've invited a few close friends to celebrate with us. We've been together 5 years. The rest . . . No kids, no stepkids. Only one nephew, brother John's son, almost 15, who is brilliant and amazing (takes after his aunt?) I graduated from Harvard (on the Pike :-D) with an AA in Advertising Design and later earned a BS in Info Systems from U of MD. Moved to Los Angeles in 1987 just for fun. It was. Even so, I ended up in Colorado in 1992 and have been here since. I did some traveling around Europe and Thailand on my own waaaaaaay back when I was young and single. These days, Greg and I like to scuba dive and use that as a good excuse to spend time on Caribbean islands when we get a chance. We also do a lot of snowboarding -- mostly here in Colorado. I've worked in both technology (programmer, tech support, writer) and creative marketing as copywriter and designer. I got as far as Director of MarComm for a small tech company before job market trends (i.e. layoffs) steered me back into tech support for the time being. I also wrote a humor column for a few years that ran in two local papers (little pay, lots of fun). Oh -- and no offense to clarinetists, but I confess that I took up the flute a couple years ago and donated my (moldy) clarinet to the school district. Mostly I play flute concerts for my dog, who never complains about the noise. Other alums I know about: Connie (Belland) Kurihara and Shari (Clayton) Brownlee and I are still great friends and have kept up an ongoing email conversation that has lasted since the invention of the Internet. We travel together sometimes with our significant others (or sometimes not). During my recent visit to DC, we rode every roller coaster at Six Flags. (We are the children we never had.) Thanks to Bob Lau for creating the Peary MSO website - it's cool. ********** From: Kathryn Dantzler (1977) Date: Sat, 15 Jan 2005 Subject: Update How I found out about the website? I was surfing the web. Occupation: Jr. Accountant / Web Designer, Spouse: Bryan (Photographer), Children: Three Step children: Lara (29), Neil (27) and Halsey (15) Memorable Incident: The constant re-painting of the anchor back to white! Since High School: Working, Photographing... Memorable Teachers: Mr. Clark (The bag-pipe band and the loud ruler on the desk when he wanted to wake everyone up) and Ms. Barnes (a nice person and good teacher who died too young.) ********** From: Randall (Randy) Higgins (1965) Date: Tue, 18 Jan 2005 Subject: Update I found out about the website from a post card. Occupation: Fed. Supv.- FDA Field Facilities, Spouse: Kathy Graham Higgins (Fed. admin. spec.); Children: Brian Scott Higgins - 35 - Attorney, Skadden Arps, NY/NY; Michael J. Higgins - 33 - Broker, Citicorp, NY, NY; Nicholas A. Graham (step) 24, ATF, Bowie, MD; Christopher M. Graham (step) 20, Frostburg U, MD. Grandchildren: Sean M. Higgins (father Michael), age 15 mos. Born 10/24/03 Memorable Incident: The day John Kennedy was shot; the news came on the classroom speakers. I was in Chorus with Carol Bauer (teacher) Since High School: Graduated from Univ. of MD in Business Admin in 1969. I started my federal career that summer and spent 6 years with US Secret Service. I've served in several different Depts and agencies and now serve as Director of the Facilities Managment Group, Office of Resource Managment, Food and Drug Administration, Rockville. I have two grown sons who are married and living/working in New York. Both watched the 9/11 Towers in 'real time'. My daughter in law Anthea (Mike's wife/Sean's mom) was literally across the street in the American Exp building and looked up from her 38th floor window as the second plane streaked past. I also have a real estate license and work p/t with John Halpin of Remax Primere Properties in Rockville. I'm starting to get into auto brokering and may pursue this hobby in retirement. I enjoy spending time with my wife Kathy (married in 06/2001) and my 'step daughter' "Chelsea", the mini Schnauzer. Future Plans: Retirement looms in several more years and I plan more piano and golf lessons, financial analysis/techical courses for stock analysis, more gourmet cooking and wine tasting. We're starting to think about leaving the Wash Metro area and looking at alternatives, possible North Carolina. Memorable Teachers: Ernest Mate, Carol Bauer, Mr. Gibbs, Mr. Milton Pruett(sic?), all the dedicated, sincere teachers who loved to teach and didn't care that they seemed "square" to us. Other alums I know about? I can report that Don Graham is living in the So. MD area, still working, and enjoys living near the water. Great site; will enjoy reading more and looking forward to our (oh my God) 40th reunion. ********** From: Ron Tepper (1979) Date: Tue, 18 Jan 2005 Subject: Update The MSO website... I've been signed-on since the beginning. Website - www.freecycle.org (International gifting network keeping usable items out of the landfills), Occupation: Technical Support Specialist, Data-Vision, Inc. Children: Mariah 8 Memorable Incidents: Spending a semester interning on Capitol Hill, Chris Carr running for the student seat on the Montgomery County Board of Education. Since High School: Went to MC for a year, Married twice, divorced twice, Moved to Indiana in '95 after an extended tour of duty with Blockbuster Video. Left the exciting world of Retail Management 7 years ago for the more stressful world of Tech Support; currently employed by an ASP provider dealing with the mortgage industry. Now living in South Bend, IN within earshot of Notre Dame Stadium. I also help moderate the South Bend / Mishawaka Freecycle(TM) Network. The Network provides individuals and non-profits an electronic forum to "recycle" unwanted items; keeping them out of the landfills. One person's trash can truly be another's treasure! This is an international grassroots network -- Join your local group at www.freecycle.org! Future Plans: I'd eventually like to come back east and relocate to Ocean City. Other alums I know about? My brother Doug (would have been Class of '82 had he not gotten shipped off to Mark Twain by the goofballs at Parkland JHS) is living in Frederick with his 3 daughters. Any alumni in Fighting Irish country? [Editor's note: Time for a mid-west alumni get-together? The Denver/Rocky Mountain alums do it, with MD crabs shipped-in! South Bend IN is just 2 hrs from Chicago...perhaps a "Great Midwest" gathering? Go for it!] ********** From: Dave Prothero (1974) Date: Wed, 19 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Occupation: Naval Officer, Spouse: Leslie (Homemaker, Homeschooler), Children: Brian, Todd, Emily, Meredithann, Reece, Morganbeth; Grandchildren: Kaleigh Since High School: 4 years of 'free' education at the Naval Academy that I've been paying back for the last 26. Many rewarding tours of duty including the privilege of commanding three ships. Blessed by being married to a great lady, Leslie, who has kept me from being 'Navy-obsessed' all these years. 6 great kids and 1 granddaughter. Future Plans: Leave the Navy, having seen what there's to see, and embark on a second career in who-knows-what. Catch up on family time I give away to the navy all these years. Memorable Teacher: Mr Clark's imitation of Joan of Arc being burned at the stake. ********** From: Kathy Kels Simpson (1975) Date: Wed, 19 Jan 2005 Subject: Update I found out about the website while looking on line. Occupation: Administrative Assistant/Registrar, Spouse: Scott (Regional Vice President of GFP), Children: Jesse - 26, Kristine - 24, Sarah Wethje and Kelly Walker - 22, Joseph - 18 and Jon - 16; Grandchildren: Campbell Walker - 20 months, sister due in March. Since High School: Raising a family Future Plans: Enjoy the family we have raised and travel at some point ********** From: Robert Smith (1970) Date: Fri, 21 Jan 2005 Subject: Update How I found out about the MSO website? Random search on google for classmate name. Occupation: Financial Planning, Spouse: Shirley (Nurse), Children: Meredith 25, Courtney 23, Bethany 20 (all girls) Since High School: Naval Academy and 5 years service, worked at Newport News Shipbuilding 18 years, Financial Planning last 7 years Future Plans: work, work, work.... Memorable Teacher: Mr. Hill for his impeccable manners and grace and quality of teaching math ********** From: Stephen Spahn (1978) Date: Fri, 21 Jan 2005 Subject: Update I found out about the website from my Older Brother. Occupation: US Navy - Hovercraft Operator Memories: Unfortunately....the "black path". Since High School: Joined the Navy, saw the world, raised a daughter. Future Plans: Getting married soon....retire from the Navy and grow up and get a "real" job. Memorable Teacher: Mr Hill.....enough said..... ********** From: Ann (Luksic) and Andy Barlow (1980) Date: Tue, 25 Jan 2005 Subject: New Addition We wish to welcome Elizabeth (Ellie) Grace who made her debut on November 17, 2004. She joins Ann's children, Madeleine (14) and Andrew (11), who have taken to her with loving arms. Elizabeth is the Luksic's 10th grandchild and the Barlow's 2nd. IF she is our only, she will join Madeleine as a "bookend," weighing in at a healthy 8-11. We are so blessed to have her and she is a complete joy. I'm happy to say that after 11 years, it all came back to me--kind of like riding a bicycle! She is Andy's first and he's taken to fatherhood like a duck to water. Being a mother of "advanced maternal age" as the medical community so delicately refers to "us", has advantages that I discover every day. I think that the biggest joy and surprise to me is how much I appreciate every little thing that she does--even the crying jags and sore back from this child who insists on being carried 24/7. We received a wonderful gift in her and plan to treasure every minute! Andy has taken to fatherhood like a pro, loving every minute of her as well. I really don't know who's more blessed; us, who wanted her so badly; or Ellie, who is loved so much by so many. If you'd like, please drop us a line at emerald417@comcast.net or feel free to phone--we're in the book. Bob has posted a picture somewhere on the website--if you're interested in seeing her. [It is posted/linked from the "Husky Pups" area at "Alumni Births!"] ********** From: James Anderson (1981) Date: Tue, 25 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Occupation: Bus Driver Memorable Incident: Making a decision what to do after high schools over. Since High School: Joined the army 7 years active and 15 years reserve time. I relocated to Raliegh, N.C., 4 years ago. Future Plans: To relocate back to the D.C. Md area and get married in the future. Memorable Teachers: No particular one I'd alot of fun with all the faulty members. ********** From: DONOVAN L CARTER (1985/Paint Branch) Date: Wed, 26 Jan 2005 Subject: Update I found out about the website from TOM V STEIN. Occupation: POLICE OFFICER, Spouse: MINDY (ASST GEN MANGER), Children: HALEY-10, BRITTANY-9 Memorable Incident: WHEN BRIAN HARDAWAY PINNED THAT GUY FROM PAINT BRANCH TO WIN THE WHOLE THING FOR PEARY. A REAL HEART STOPPER Since High School: I WENT INTO THE ARMY FROM 88 TO 92, THATS WHERE I MET MY WIFE. THEN GOT ON THE PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY POLICE FORCE IN 94 AND HAVE BEEN THERE EVER SINCE Future Plans: MY WIFE AND I ARE PLANNING TO START A DRIVING SCHOOL BEFORE OUR KIDS GET TO THAT DRIVING AGE Memorable Teacher: FOR ME IT WOULD HAVE TO BE MRS. ROSEN, I BELIEVE SHE REALLY BROUGHT THE BEST OUT OF EVERY PERSON THAT WAS EVER IN HER CLASS Comments: I CAN SAY THIS, THAT EVERY TIME I SEE A PEARY ALUM, I JUST WANT TO GO BACK TO MY MOMS HOUSE AND THROW ANOTHER PARTY LIKE THE OLD DAYS ********** From: Linda Fishbein Lyons-Drager (1980) Date: Wed, 26 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Occupation: Secretary/FDA, Spouse: Kerry Drager (Chief Petty Officer-U.S. Navy), Children: Stephanie Nicole Lyons - Age 11 Memorable Incident: When Kathy DeVries and I got caught smoking in the girls bathroom. Since High School: I have been working for the FDA for 25 years and raising my daughter. Future Plans: To retire from FDA and live somewhere where it is warm all year round. Memorable Teacher: Mr. Wick because he was an awesome teacher/friend. ********** From: Bobby DeSantis (1978) Date: Thu, 27 Jan 2005 Subject: "Artic Blues" Recordings! To: all former Arctic Blues band members from 1978. Recently I was cleaning out one of my many cluttered closets and discovered some 8-track tapes! Two were labeled "Stage Band." The tapes had a foam rubber part that had long since rotted, but, with a little bit of effort, which included; a purchase from a thrift shop's long forgotten library of old 8-tracks tapes - "Eddy Arnold - Country Songs I Love to Sing," (that I bought for a few cents, gave me a few non foam pieces parts to take the place of that old foam), and with the help of my old faithful "top-of-the-line" 8-track player that still works (they REALLY don't make 'em like they used to) which I had stored for that "Someday when I get a chance to," I was able to transfer the recordings to CD. One of them is of "Glenn Miller Night," and other I can't make out. Both are fun to listen to. However, since I was the recording engineer, there is a slight "balance" problem. As I recall, the mics were located nearer to myself and Brian Hinds (on bass) and possibly Craig Conway, (on drums). My Electric Accordion thing (and sometimes the bass) is often a bit louder than it should be. (maybe it was really that was from the audience's perspective, but nobody ever said so!) Anyway, if you would like a copy to have fun listening to, write me and I would be happy to make you a copy. Sincerely, your fellow Arctic Blueser, and, the only accordion player ever at Peary High, Bobby DeSantis PS: I last played the accordion in 1987. (I can't even play a song on one now) I taught myself how to play the piano and/or keyboard (which has a killer accordion sound if I ever wanted to play it again) and now actually have been teaching piano for the past 8 years! Funny how "Door Knob" had the right instrument all along! [Editor's Note: We'll be obtaining recordings from an album created during the Mr. Hubbard era of girls chorus, et al - courtesy of Patsy Zukav (1984). When Mr. Peerless was clearing closets out in prep for the school closing, items were up-for-grabs - Patsy grabbed the album and wants to share it with all alums... we'll work on it and digitize and offer links online eventually, like the current Alma Mater (sung by 1976 a cappella members during a reunion) that's online now.] ********** From: Bob Inskeep (1965) Date: Sat, 29 Jan 2005 Subject: Update I found out about the website through a postcard from Eileen. Occupation: minister, Spouse: Jeannie (Pampered Chef) Memorable Incidents: Band, rifle team, being in a play with Mr. Gibbs... Mrs. Magrab leading the class in prayer as the announcement came over the P.A. that JFK was assassinated; Mr. McKay threatening to throw miscreants out the window... Since High School: I was in broadcasting for about 25 years... then went to seminary, I've been a Presbyterian minister for 11 years. Future Plans: ministry! Memorable Teachers: Mr. Halleck (band and rifle team...who always called me Roger), Mr. Thomas, who worked part-time at a grocery story, Mr. McKay...pretty intimidating, but inspired me to be good at chemistry...Magrab for English (thought she was a tyrant, but I really learned how to write)... nice French teacher (forgot her name)... This is all in the dim mysty recesses... I hardly ever get back to Rockville, although I have a brother in Fredericksburg. I didn't tear up undergrad work at Va Tech, but in my 40s in seminary, I realize I had a good solid background in several areas, especially language and writing. Didn't know how fortunate I was at the time! ********** From: Ken Roseman (1969) Date: Fri, 28 Jan 2005 Subject: KEN'S UPDATE CELTIC CONCERT AT ACADEMY AUDITORIUM!! KEN MOVES BACK TO MD!! Any and all alumni interested in Celtic music should attend the TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CUNNINGHAM concert scheduled for February 7 at the Sylvia S. Ely Auditorium of the Melvin J Berman Hebrew Academy (13300 Arctic Ave., Rockville, MD). (That address should be familiar to everyone reading this.) For those who don't know, Johnny Cunningham was the fiddler with famed Scottish folk band SILLY WIZARD! The concert will feature Johnny's brother Phil Cunningham (accordion master), vocalist Susan McKeown, fiddler Kevin Burke, Seamus Egan, and Aidan Brennan along with several guest musicians from Cape Breton. This event is part of the INSTITUTE OF MUSICAL TRADITIONS concert series. For more information, contact: office@imtfolk.org I attended the Homecoming/Reunion concert in 2000 which was held at the auditorium and it is a beautiful facility! I am really pleased that this event is being held there; I've wanted to see the auditorium used for public concerts for a long time-- this will be another great "homecoming." On a personal note: I am moving back to MD!! Yes, after living in a small efficiency apartment in Arlington, VA since February 1986, I will be moving to Silver Spring. On Tuesday Feb 1 I'll be going to "settlement" on a 1 bedroom unit in EASTERN VILLAGE COHOUSING. This is a rehabbed building on Eastern Ave. What is different about this situation from a conventional condominium is that residents take a strong role in actual management of the building. Also, the building has many "environment friendly" aspects, such as "geo-thermal" heating and cooling. This will be quite an adventure for me; I will be a first time "owner." And just choosing what to bring and what to leave behind will be quite a task. Oh well, we've all got to "grow up" some time. Anybody out there interested in fantasy, folk ballads, comix, and/or Anglo-Celtic folk/roots music should check out THE BOOK OF BALLADS (Tor Books). This features comic book style adaptations of traditional ballads with art by CHARLES VESS and text adaptations by various comix/fantasy authors. I contributed "Discography Notes" to the book, which included a list of in print recordings of the ballads and short bios of the performers who recorded them. Best wishes to all for the new year!! Peace-Ken (Ken Roseman RPHS '69) [Add'l info about the Celtic concert can be read at The Institute of Musical Traditions page.... concert begins at 7:30pm, $20 advance or $25 at the door - http://www.imtfolk.org/html/imt05_johnnycunningham.html ] ********** From: Ronald Niland (1973) Date: Mon, 31 Jan 2005 Subject: Update Occupation: Self Employed, Spouse: Marie, Children: Jennie 21, Ryan 17 Memorable Incident: Trip to Ireland with Soccer team Since High School: Wake Forest University Grad. City Manager for several North Carolina Towns. Own a Consulting Bussiness Memorable Teacher: Mr. Hill, Math Teacher who was a great man. *********************************** *********** QUICK TAKES *********** *********************************** Patricia Varron Stoute - Class of 1981 Occupation: Publications Coordinator, Spouse: John (Deputy CIO), Children: Three wonderful children... Tori - 15, Charlie - 12, and Michael - 10 Robert A Martin - Class of 1965 I found out about the website from a search engine. Occupation: Retired, Spouse: Margaret (Retired), Children: John 29, Phillip 24 Since High School: Worked 37 years for the Navy Dept. Retured computer specialist. Future Plans: Enjoy retirement, fishing, generly having a good time. Tammy Halak Holliday (1981) Occupation: Registered Nurse, Spouse: Frank (1981 - Senior investigator), Children: Kristen 20, Jennifer 18, Shannon 15, Sean 11 Denia Mezebish Addis - Class of 1980 I found out about the website from a friend. Occupation: Contracts Administrator/Landscaping, Spouse: Gordon (Construction), Children: Ben 14, Hanna 12 Frank Stojinski - Class of 1976 I found out about the website from the web. Web site - www.acupabove.us (coffee wholesale), Occupation: Self Jo Ann Harrison Larson - Class of 1972 Occupation: Diversity and Equal Opportunity Director, NASA. Children: Brendon 27, Michael 19. Recent employment relocation to Louisiana of all places! Currently Director of Diversity and Equal Opportuniy at NASA Stennis Space Center. Approx. 40 minutes to New Orleans - Mardi Gras should be an interesting adventure! Keith N. Dietz - Class of 1972 Occupation: Health Care Information Systems, Spouse: Kathryn (Documentary Producer) Brian Boyd - Class of 1975 I found out about the website from Class mates. Spouse: Pat, Children: Lauren, Kevin Robert Arthur Johanson - Class of 1974 I found out about the website... met fellow Peary graduate Kathleen (Kearns) Grant (1977). Occupation: Engineer, Spouse: Elaine (IT Director, FDA/CVM), Children: Tommy (15), John Patrick (13), Tori (10) Kay Kuhayda Watts - Class of 1984 Occupation: Critical Care Nurse, Spouse: David (Self Employed-Crane Service), Children: Kenny-19, Kristy-14, Kasey-8 Andrew Crowe - Class of 1985/Rockville I found out about the website from old friends. Occupation: Banking, Spouse: Paula, Children: Brendan (6), Ian (4) Karen Fye Drescher - Class of 1976 Occupation: Daycare Mom, Spouse: Steve (Policy Advisor - NOAA) susan mehlferber hoyson - Class of 1975 Spouse: neal (dentist), Children: joey-13y/o, briam-11y/o *********** CONDOLENCES *********** Please remember these alums and families in your thoughts and prayers: Mrs. Doris Cummings passed away on Sunday January 2, 2005.. "Mrs. C" or "momma C," as many classmates called her, was the wife of 48 years to Stacy, Sr. and mother to Stacy, Jr. (1976 - stacyjr@cox.net), Debbie Boutselis (1978 - dboutselis@mitlending.com), Steve (1981 - scummings@bvgroup.com), Stewart (1984 - C70882@msn.com), and Spencer (1987/Rockville). Services were held in her hometown of Pembroke NC. ---------- Mr. Robert Morris, the father of Michael (1979 - MMorris368@aol.com, and married to Nancy Gardner), Steve (1981 - steve.morris@montgomerycountymd.gov), and Kelly Selt (1984 - selt@comcast.net), passed away Friday January 14, 2005 at his home in Ocean City from a two-year battle with metastic melanoma. All children were present. Mr. Morris was a retired Montgomery County Police Officer. A service was held 1/20, inurnment at Arlington National Columbarium was on Tuesday 1/25. An online guest book to leave messages for the family and memorial contribution information are available at: http://obit.pumphreyfuneralhome.com/obit_display.cgi?id=177532 ---------- Mr. John Broberg Jr., the father of John (1978 - jlyn207@comcast.net), Susan Naugle (1981), and Paul (1985 - broberpe@celera.com), passed away on Tuesday January 18, 2005. Mr. Broberg was a big supporter of Peary athletics, and especially enjoyed wrestling. A celebration of his life will be held on February 5 at the Knights of Pythias Forest Oak Lodge in Gaithersburg MD at 2:00pm. Additional information, photos, and a notice and guest book are available at: http://obit.pumphreyfuneralhome.com/obit_display.cgi?id=178444 Please e-mail John with any memories or stories that you wish to be read at the service. [We wish to thank "Coach" Duane Black and wife Jacque of Las Vegas for letting us know of Mr. Broberg's passing.] ---------- 1972 classmate, Dean Sullivan of Mt. Airy MD, passed away at Frederick Memorial Hospital on January 19, 2005. He is brother to William "Sandy" (1969) and Brian (1971). Visitations (1/23) and funeral service (1/24) were held in Damascus MD. Add'l info and a notice/guest book are available until 2/21/05 at: http://www.legacy.com/washingtonpost/LegacySubPage2.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=3068929 [We wish to thank Mary Ann Naples Vann (1978), Dean's neighbor, for letting us know, and Dianne Sullivan Baldassano (1972 - no relation) who worked in the same division of MCPS as Dean.] ----- Our condolences to the families of these alums and friends. ********************************************************************** END OF TEXT - MIDNIGHT SUN ONLINE - VOLUME 9, NUMBER 6 Articles for the next issue are due February 26, 2005 ********************************************************************** Copyright 2005 The Midnight Sun Online - http://www.pearyhs.org **********************************************************************