Occupation: Seventh Grade Science Teacher and XC/Track Coach
Hometown: Belvidere
Marital Status: Single
Children: Other than the 150 seventh graders I teach and the 45 athletes I coach, I have none of my own . . . although somedays it feels like it!
Pets: Cat (Montana)
What has changed about you?:
• I don't feel much different, more independent I guess! Oh, and I actually like running now!
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.:
• Best and worst thing is change . . . love it and hate it!
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• Student taught in Napier, New Zealand (best 5 months of my life!)
• B.A. degree from Winona State in Elementary Education 2001
• Began teaching in Belvidere Fall 2001 and continued until present
• Bought my first house in 2003
• M.A. degree in Curriculum and Instruction from N.I.U. 2006
• Ran my first 1/2 marathon in Chicago August 2007
• Became an aunt Sept. 2007
Will you be attending the reunion: Yes
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
Mark Westphal
.
Occupation: Student (getting my paralegal) and work for the Department of Human Services as an Personal Asst. to the disabled
Hometown: Back in Belvidere after living in Madison Wisconsin for 3 wonderful years.
Marital Status: Well I can't get married not legal yet in Illinois hehe and no boyfriend at this time living the single life!!!
Pets: I have 2 dogs,2 cats, and 2 birds my family must like the number 2!!!
What has changed about you?
• Well I think that I am more outspoken then I was in high school and since I came out so to speak I am more myself then I was back then.
What hasn't?
• I am still "Most Outgoing" always doing something to do with Theater or Singing.
Best thing about being in my late 20's:
•.....I dont think there is anything good about being in my late 20's
The worst:
• BILLS BILLS BILLS!!! I hate being an adult!!!
Significant events in my life over the past 10 years:
• 1999: Dropped out of school at RVC and then did my first show "Fiddler on the Roof" at Starlight Theater with fellow class mate Jennifer Grubb.
• 2000:Moved to Madison Wisconsin to manage a Road Ranger gas station.
• 2002: Managed a Kelley Williamson Mobil in Madison Wisconsin.
• 2003: Moved home to Belvidere and went back to Road Ranger and managed a store in Rockford.
• 2004: Transfered back up to Madison to manage a store for Road Ranger yet again....
• 2005:Moved back to Belvidere after I figured out that the life I lead up there in Madison was not the one for me. Did "Jesus Christ Superstar" at Starlight Theater.
• 2006: Worked for GROUPO in Belvidere making doors for cars for Chrysler....HATED IT!!! That summer was in "Cats" and "Miss Siagon" at Starlight Theater and also started singing with The Mendelssohn Chorale of Rockford.(I love performing at the beautiful Coronado Theater!!!)
• 2007: Quit GROUPO yeh!!! Started working for DHS. This past summer was in "Ragtime" and "Jekyll and Hyde" at Starlight Theater. Also, became a section leader for Mendelssohn Chorale of Rockford...I love getting paid to sing!!! And now working on getting my Paralegal at Rockford Business College.
Will you be at the reunion? Yes
Occupation: Student (getting my paralegal) and work for the Department of Human Services as an Personal Asst. to the disabled
Hometown: Back in Belvidere after living in Madison Wisconsin for 3 wonderful years.
Marital Status: Well I can't get married not legal yet in Illinois hehe and no boyfriend at this time living the single life!!!
Pets: I have 2 dogs,2 cats, and 2 birds my family must like the number 2!!!
What has changed about you?
• Well I think that I am more outspoken then I was in high school and since I came out so to speak I am more myself then I was back then.
What hasn't?
• I am still "Most Outgoing" always doing something to do with Theater or Singing.
Best thing about being in my late 20's:
•.....I dont think there is anything good about being in my late 20's
The worst:
• BILLS BILLS BILLS!!! I hate being an adult!!!
Significant events in my life over the past 10 years:
• 1999: Dropped out of school at RVC and then did my first show "Fiddler on the Roof" at Starlight Theater with fellow class mate Jennifer Grubb.
• 2000:Moved to Madison Wisconsin to manage a Road Ranger gas station.
• 2002: Managed a Kelley Williamson Mobil in Madison Wisconsin.
• 2003: Moved home to Belvidere and went back to Road Ranger and managed a store in Rockford.
• 2004: Transfered back up to Madison to manage a store for Road Ranger yet again....
• 2005:Moved back to Belvidere after I figured out that the life I lead up there in Madison was not the one for me. Did "Jesus Christ Superstar" at Starlight Theater.
• 2006: Worked for GROUPO in Belvidere making doors for cars for Chrysler....HATED IT!!! That summer was in "Cats" and "Miss Siagon" at Starlight Theater and also started singing with The Mendelssohn Chorale of Rockford.(I love performing at the beautiful Coronado Theater!!!)
• 2007: Quit GROUPO yeh!!! Started working for DHS. This past summer was in "Ragtime" and "Jekyll and Hyde" at Starlight Theater. Also, became a section leader for Mendelssohn Chorale of Rockford...I love getting paid to sing!!! And now working on getting my Paralegal at Rockford Business College.
Will you be at the reunion? Yes
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Jennifer Grubb
.
Occupation: Research Technologist and Actor
Hometown: Chicago!
Marital Status: Single
Pets:
• I kill plants! I can't really have pets, although my Mom bought me a fake dog that sleeps by my bed.
What has changed about you?
• I've grown up. I never thought in a million years that I would be an independent, city girl, driving around the streets of Chicago on my own!
What hasn’t?
• I am still very passionate about music and theatre. I still enjoy a wide variety of friends. I still have brown, curly hair (-:
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• After leaving the safe and fun world of college, you find yourself in the real world, with real life problems and choices. I feel a lot of pressure to decide on a career path, to "settle down," and become an adult, but as a very good friend once told me: Life is journey, not a destination! Therefore, being in my late 20's is great because now, I can make my own choices and enjoy life.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• Graduating from Indiana University with a BS in Biology in 2001
• Working in a Biology Lab at the University of Chicago since 2001
• Being a homeowner! I bought my condo in 2005.
• Performing on the Lyric Opera of Chicago stage!
• Cantorial Soloist for Tikkun Olam Congregation for the past 3 years.
• Being in numerous productions in Chicago theatre including most recently the American Premiere of Jerry Springer the Opera- yes, you read that right!
Will you be attending the reunion: Not sure.
• A friend is getting married that night in Chicago, but I will be around that weekend!
Occupation: Research Technologist and Actor
Hometown: Chicago!
Marital Status: Single
Pets:
• I kill plants! I can't really have pets, although my Mom bought me a fake dog that sleeps by my bed.
What has changed about you?
• I've grown up. I never thought in a million years that I would be an independent, city girl, driving around the streets of Chicago on my own!
What hasn’t?
• I am still very passionate about music and theatre. I still enjoy a wide variety of friends. I still have brown, curly hair (-:
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• After leaving the safe and fun world of college, you find yourself in the real world, with real life problems and choices. I feel a lot of pressure to decide on a career path, to "settle down," and become an adult, but as a very good friend once told me: Life is journey, not a destination! Therefore, being in my late 20's is great because now, I can make my own choices and enjoy life.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• Graduating from Indiana University with a BS in Biology in 2001
• Working in a Biology Lab at the University of Chicago since 2001
• Being a homeowner! I bought my condo in 2005.
• Performing on the Lyric Opera of Chicago stage!
• Cantorial Soloist for Tikkun Olam Congregation for the past 3 years.
• Being in numerous productions in Chicago theatre including most recently the American Premiere of Jerry Springer the Opera- yes, you read that right!
Will you be attending the reunion: Not sure.
• A friend is getting married that night in Chicago, but I will be around that weekend!
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Jody (Farrey) Reifenberger
.
Occupation: Physician Assistant Chronic Disease Management and Pediatric Departments at East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
Hometown: Cambridge, MA
Marital Status: Married July 15,2006
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Jeff Reifenberger Research Scientist, Helicos Biosciences
Children: Not yet, but I'm taking a poll for the future. Doesn't Beau Reifenberger sound like a sports star? My husband hates it! :)
What has changed about you?
• Not much, besides the fact that I started running. Jeff and I are training for the Baltimore Marathon in October.
What hasn't?
• I'd like to think I'm still the fun-loving and social gal I always have been and usually going non-stop.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• I really have no complaints. God is good. Life is good. I was just saying to someone the other day how I love being grown-up and getting to do whatever I want. Somehow I don't feel old enough to be "grown up." But hey, I had cereal and ice cream for dinner the other night and there was nobody there to tell me "no."
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• I would definitely have to say the last year and a half have contained a number of significant events.
• Got married in July '06 went on an amazing honeymoon to Alaska, my husband finished his thesis in November and then got a job in Cambridge, Mass.
• In January we moved halfway across the country for Jeff's career and I started a new job myself in April.
• Other than that, finishing my Masters in 2003 and the birth of my niece, Reagan in 2005 have been definite highlights. I love being an Auntie. I'm shooting for Aunt of the Year, two years running.
Will you be attending the reunion: Wouldn't Miss It!
Occupation: Physician Assistant Chronic Disease Management and Pediatric Departments at East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
Hometown: Cambridge, MA
Marital Status: Married July 15,2006
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Jeff Reifenberger Research Scientist, Helicos Biosciences
Children: Not yet, but I'm taking a poll for the future. Doesn't Beau Reifenberger sound like a sports star? My husband hates it! :)
What has changed about you?
• Not much, besides the fact that I started running. Jeff and I are training for the Baltimore Marathon in October.
What hasn't?
• I'd like to think I'm still the fun-loving and social gal I always have been and usually going non-stop.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• I really have no complaints. God is good. Life is good. I was just saying to someone the other day how I love being grown-up and getting to do whatever I want. Somehow I don't feel old enough to be "grown up." But hey, I had cereal and ice cream for dinner the other night and there was nobody there to tell me "no."
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• I would definitely have to say the last year and a half have contained a number of significant events.
• Got married in July '06 went on an amazing honeymoon to Alaska, my husband finished his thesis in November and then got a job in Cambridge, Mass.
• In January we moved halfway across the country for Jeff's career and I started a new job myself in April.
• Other than that, finishing my Masters in 2003 and the birth of my niece, Reagan in 2005 have been definite highlights. I love being an Auntie. I'm shooting for Aunt of the Year, two years running.
Will you be attending the reunion: Wouldn't Miss It!
Jeff Cook
.
Occupation: Medical resident at University of Wisconsin right now, though this will be my last year there--I will start at Illinois Masonic hospital I Chicago next June.
Hometown: Stoughton, Wisconsin, but my heart is always in "R.K.F.D" if you know what I mean.
Marital Status: married
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Emily (Sterett), she is a soon to be full-fledged teacher of middle school English. She is also a part-time bar maid so we can afford gas and food.
Children: (Names & Ages)-none yet. Plan on naming kid Dolph whether it is boy or girl.
Pets: Two white cats who are also gay lovers from what I can tell. Their names are Junior and Lovie, the latter after one of my favorite dudes of all time, Lovie Smith, head coach of the Chicago Bears.
What hasn't changed about you? Always a hard question to answer. I don't think I've changed all that much. I still put my Z-Cavaricci's and Girbaud jeans on one leg at a time, and "tight-roll" them just as tight, if not tighter.
What has?
I would like to think I'm not as much of a "spaz", but I suppose no one thinks that of themselves in the moment. Also I'm learning a trade, which is nice.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
The best thing is that one can get a sense of the good things that are ahead, the worst thing is still being too poor to do any of them right now. (This may not apply to those of you who have actually "graduated")
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• Went to UW Eau Claire for one year.
• Dad passed away in 1997
• Got B.S. in Biological Sciences at University of Illinois-Chicago, at Ankur Vaghani's recommendation.
• Got M.D. at University of Illinois College of Medicine-Rockford.
• Moved from the perennial "worst city in the US" to live (Rockford) to the perennial "best" (Madison) for residency. Funny how I would way rather be in Rockford.
• Bought first house in August 2006.
• Learned how to remodel kitchens and bathrooms.
• Got married in February 2007.
• Matched into Chicago program in June 2007.
• Currently frantically trying to figure out how to sell a house in Stoughton, WI. I'll take offers. No, seriously.
Will you be attending the reunion: Not sure—depends on whether Schuetz and/or Mathison goes.
P.S. If someone has Grant Heinrich's email please give it to me. I would like to track him down.
Occupation: Medical resident at University of Wisconsin right now, though this will be my last year there--I will start at Illinois Masonic hospital I Chicago next June.
Hometown: Stoughton, Wisconsin, but my heart is always in "R.K.F.D" if you know what I mean.
Marital Status: married
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Emily (Sterett), she is a soon to be full-fledged teacher of middle school English. She is also a part-time bar maid so we can afford gas and food.
Children: (Names & Ages)-none yet. Plan on naming kid Dolph whether it is boy or girl.
Pets: Two white cats who are also gay lovers from what I can tell. Their names are Junior and Lovie, the latter after one of my favorite dudes of all time, Lovie Smith, head coach of the Chicago Bears.
What hasn't changed about you? Always a hard question to answer. I don't think I've changed all that much. I still put my Z-Cavaricci's and Girbaud jeans on one leg at a time, and "tight-roll" them just as tight, if not tighter.
What has?
I would like to think I'm not as much of a "spaz", but I suppose no one thinks that of themselves in the moment. Also I'm learning a trade, which is nice.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
The best thing is that one can get a sense of the good things that are ahead, the worst thing is still being too poor to do any of them right now. (This may not apply to those of you who have actually "graduated")
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• Went to UW Eau Claire for one year.
• Dad passed away in 1997
• Got B.S. in Biological Sciences at University of Illinois-Chicago, at Ankur Vaghani's recommendation.
• Got M.D. at University of Illinois College of Medicine-Rockford.
• Moved from the perennial "worst city in the US" to live (Rockford) to the perennial "best" (Madison) for residency. Funny how I would way rather be in Rockford.
• Bought first house in August 2006.
• Learned how to remodel kitchens and bathrooms.
• Got married in February 2007.
• Matched into Chicago program in June 2007.
• Currently frantically trying to figure out how to sell a house in Stoughton, WI. I'll take offers. No, seriously.
Will you be attending the reunion: Not sure—depends on whether Schuetz and/or Mathison goes.
P.S. If someone has Grant Heinrich's email please give it to me. I would like to track him down.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Janet Guffey
.
Occupation: Land Steward at Nachusa Grasslands Nature Preserve/The Nature Conservancy.
Hometown: Franklin Grove, IL
Marital Status: Single
Pets: One Cat, Harry--he's the best!
What has changed about you?
• I discovered my passion after several unsuccessful attempts at finding my place in the working world. I am committed to environmental conservation and am very proud of the work that I do.
What hasn't?
• Other than that I'm still the same as I was in high school. Still a music lover and still very much in the clouds.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• I can't really think of anything bad about it. I'm looking forward to my 30's--they just might be the best years of my life. The best part of being in my late 20's is having experienced the ups and downs of life in the real world and using those experiences to guide me in the direction of my dreams. I am more confident now than I have ever been before.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• I graduated from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale with a BA in History and a minor in Environmental Studies.
• I had originally planned on being a teacher, but decided to go the other route and work in the conservation field.
• Prior to finishing college I worked in sales and as a greenhouse tech.
• I worked on a farm in Montana, hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail, and spent time camping and canoeing the Boundary Waters in Northern Minnesota.
o Those are a few of the most memorable places I've visited. I would like to travel overseas some time soon.
Will you be attending the reunion: I am not sure yet.
Occupation: Land Steward at Nachusa Grasslands Nature Preserve/The Nature Conservancy.
Hometown: Franklin Grove, IL
Marital Status: Single
Pets: One Cat, Harry--he's the best!
What has changed about you?
• I discovered my passion after several unsuccessful attempts at finding my place in the working world. I am committed to environmental conservation and am very proud of the work that I do.
What hasn't?
• Other than that I'm still the same as I was in high school. Still a music lover and still very much in the clouds.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• I can't really think of anything bad about it. I'm looking forward to my 30's--they just might be the best years of my life. The best part of being in my late 20's is having experienced the ups and downs of life in the real world and using those experiences to guide me in the direction of my dreams. I am more confident now than I have ever been before.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• I graduated from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale with a BA in History and a minor in Environmental Studies.
• I had originally planned on being a teacher, but decided to go the other route and work in the conservation field.
• Prior to finishing college I worked in sales and as a greenhouse tech.
• I worked on a farm in Montana, hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail, and spent time camping and canoeing the Boundary Waters in Northern Minnesota.
o Those are a few of the most memorable places I've visited. I would like to travel overseas some time soon.
Will you be attending the reunion: I am not sure yet.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Leigh (Leonard) Warkins
.
Occupation: Currently, I am a stay at home wife & Mom.
• I also assist my husband in managing our business.
• I became a licensed cosmetologist in 1998 & worked in a salon until December of 2004. With our growing business & our expanding family, my husband built a small salon in our home in January of 2005, which was more accommodating. However in July 2006 after the birth of our third child & a move to a new house, I decided to take a break from the cosmetology field completely. It was an easy decision to make given the position of wife & mother is my dream job.
Hometown: Rockford, IL
Marital Status: Married to Rob since August 7, 1999
Spouse: Rob Warkins, 31, self employed electrical contractor.
• We started our own company in October of 2002; Warkins Electric, specializing in new construction & remodeling.
Children: Whitney Grace (6yrs.), Avery Faith (4yrs.), & Levi Christian-Stone (1yr.)
Pets: We have 2 pets. Our dog George, a Boston Terrier, & a Himalayan cat named Milo.
What has changed:
• My faith has changed over the last 10 years. It's become stronger & more rooted.
What hasn’t changed:
• Something that hasn't changed is my trust in God, He's always provided.
The best thing about being in my late 20's:
• I've achieved my goals to this point & have what I've always wanted.
The worst thing:
• The worst thing is that 30 is just around the corner! I remember when my Mom turned 30!
The most significant events for me in the last 10 years:
• Of course, my marriage to Rob, he's an amazing husband & father
• The birth of our 3 children, they are blessings!
Will you be attending the reunion? Yes
Occupation: Currently, I am a stay at home wife & Mom.
• I also assist my husband in managing our business.
• I became a licensed cosmetologist in 1998 & worked in a salon until December of 2004. With our growing business & our expanding family, my husband built a small salon in our home in January of 2005, which was more accommodating. However in July 2006 after the birth of our third child & a move to a new house, I decided to take a break from the cosmetology field completely. It was an easy decision to make given the position of wife & mother is my dream job.
Hometown: Rockford, IL
Marital Status: Married to Rob since August 7, 1999
Spouse: Rob Warkins, 31, self employed electrical contractor.
• We started our own company in October of 2002; Warkins Electric, specializing in new construction & remodeling.
Children: Whitney Grace (6yrs.), Avery Faith (4yrs.), & Levi Christian-Stone (1yr.)
Pets: We have 2 pets. Our dog George, a Boston Terrier, & a Himalayan cat named Milo.
What has changed:
• My faith has changed over the last 10 years. It's become stronger & more rooted.
What hasn’t changed:
• Something that hasn't changed is my trust in God, He's always provided.
The best thing about being in my late 20's:
• I've achieved my goals to this point & have what I've always wanted.
The worst thing:
• The worst thing is that 30 is just around the corner! I remember when my Mom turned 30!
The most significant events for me in the last 10 years:
• Of course, my marriage to Rob, he's an amazing husband & father
• The birth of our 3 children, they are blessings!
Will you be attending the reunion? Yes
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Laura (Butler) Robinson
.
Occupation: Certified Credit Counselor
Hometown: Belvidere
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Brad Robinson, chef
Pets: Cat-Ozzi and a Guinea Pig- Doobie
What has changed about you? What hasn't?
• Same old me, different look.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• It feels the same to me.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• Got married.
Will you be attending the reunion: I will certainly try.
Occupation: Certified Credit Counselor
Hometown: Belvidere
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Brad Robinson, chef
Pets: Cat-Ozzi and a Guinea Pig- Doobie
What has changed about you? What hasn't?
• Same old me, different look.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• It feels the same to me.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• Got married.
Will you be attending the reunion: I will certainly try.
Liz (Sweet) Olsen
.
Occupation: Associate Director of Customer Service for Enrollment Services at Southern Oregon University
Hometown: Talent, Oregon
Marital Status: Married - just got married July 7, 2007
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Jake Olsen - Assistant Football Coach, Offensive Coordinator for Southern Oregon University
What has changed about you?
• I'm much more outspoken and direct than I was in high school. Also, I'm now adjusting to being a football coach's wife - let's just say, it's a very different world!
What hasn't changed?
• I'm still athletic and competitive - probably why I married a coach!
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's:
• That's a tough question - I guess the best thing is knowing that you can control your own happiness and there are so many years ahead to enjoy on my own terms!
Significant Events over the last 10 years:
• May 2001 - Graduated with B.S. in Math and Computer Science from Rockford College
• May 2001 - First job working as a computer programmer at Woodward in Rockford
• April 2003 - Got laid off from Woodward and wondered what the heck do I do now!
• August 2004 - Started working as a graduate assistant women's basketball coach at Lewis University
• October 2005 - Took full-time job in financial aid office at Lewis University
• May 2006 - Graduated with a Masters in Organizational Leadership from Lewis University
• July 2007 - Got married, moved to Oregon and started my new job at Southern Oregon University
Will you be attending the reunion: No
• Wish I could be there, but it's just not possible right now with the new job and football season.
Occupation: Associate Director of Customer Service for Enrollment Services at Southern Oregon University
Hometown: Talent, Oregon
Marital Status: Married - just got married July 7, 2007
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Jake Olsen - Assistant Football Coach, Offensive Coordinator for Southern Oregon University
What has changed about you?
• I'm much more outspoken and direct than I was in high school. Also, I'm now adjusting to being a football coach's wife - let's just say, it's a very different world!
What hasn't changed?
• I'm still athletic and competitive - probably why I married a coach!
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's:
• That's a tough question - I guess the best thing is knowing that you can control your own happiness and there are so many years ahead to enjoy on my own terms!
Significant Events over the last 10 years:
• May 2001 - Graduated with B.S. in Math and Computer Science from Rockford College
• May 2001 - First job working as a computer programmer at Woodward in Rockford
• April 2003 - Got laid off from Woodward and wondered what the heck do I do now!
• August 2004 - Started working as a graduate assistant women's basketball coach at Lewis University
• October 2005 - Took full-time job in financial aid office at Lewis University
• May 2006 - Graduated with a Masters in Organizational Leadership from Lewis University
• July 2007 - Got married, moved to Oregon and started my new job at Southern Oregon University
Will you be attending the reunion: No
• Wish I could be there, but it's just not possible right now with the new job and football season.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Paul Karvelius
.
Occupation: Mechanic at UPS
Hometown: Rockford, IL
Marital Status: Married since June of 2001
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Anna (Parker) BHS '98. Anna is a Family Support Specialist for the Rockford Public Schools Early Childhood Program.
Children: Someday
Pets: Ace, 2 yr. old - 100 lb. chocolate lab
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• June 1997: Started at UPS and have been there ever since
• June 2001: Married my high school sweetheart
• April 2005: Bought our first house
Will you be attending the reunion: Yes
Occupation: Mechanic at UPS
Hometown: Rockford, IL
Marital Status: Married since June of 2001
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Anna (Parker) BHS '98. Anna is a Family Support Specialist for the Rockford Public Schools Early Childhood Program.
Children: Someday
Pets: Ace, 2 yr. old - 100 lb. chocolate lab
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• June 1997: Started at UPS and have been there ever since
• June 2001: Married my high school sweetheart
• April 2005: Bought our first house
Will you be attending the reunion: Yes
Melissa (Schwartz) Thomas
.
Occupation: Marriage Enhancement Program Coordinator for Children’s Home and Aid Society, Drama Teacher at Steps to Grace Dance Academy, and Independent Demonstrator for Gold Canyon Candles.
Hometown: Rockford, IL
Marital Status: Married on May 26th, 2007. So I guess that makes us newlyweds still!
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Mike Thomas, Shop Foreman for Lonnie’s Stone Crafters
Children: Soon we hope.
Pets: No pets here since I am allergic to just about everything, but I would like to have a horse one day.
What has changed about you? What hasn't?
• I think that I have a better understanding of life, people, and their experiences which I guess just com e with the gig of our walk in life. Although I always considered myself to be open minded and understanding of people and their needs that just continues to grow with time. I have enjoyed involving into the person I am today and can’t wait to see what is next!
• I am pretty sure when it comes to having a good time I have not changed too much, although I may have toned it down a notch......or not.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• I am not really sure if there is a best or worst to being 28. I just know that every life experience counts and I am blessed to still be here living life and enjoying my friends and family.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• May 2001- Graduated from Western Illinois University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Arts.
• August 2001- Took an unforgettable trip to Europe with some friends from college. We visited Italy, Greece, France and Holland.
• November 2002- Made a complete career shift into Social Work and have been doing it ever since.
• August 2006- Purchased a home in Rockford, IL.
• September 2006- Started working as a sub-contractor for Steps to Grace Dance Academy and love it!
• May 2007- Got married to my wonderful husband Mike. I am pretty sure that is the most significant event for me to date.
Will you be attending the reunion: Yes
• Thank you to everyone who had pitched in to make this happen.
Occupation: Marriage Enhancement Program Coordinator for Children’s Home and Aid Society, Drama Teacher at Steps to Grace Dance Academy, and Independent Demonstrator for Gold Canyon Candles.
Hometown: Rockford, IL
Marital Status: Married on May 26th, 2007. So I guess that makes us newlyweds still!
Spouse's Name & Occupation: Mike Thomas, Shop Foreman for Lonnie’s Stone Crafters
Children: Soon we hope.
Pets: No pets here since I am allergic to just about everything, but I would like to have a horse one day.
What has changed about you? What hasn't?
• I think that I have a better understanding of life, people, and their experiences which I guess just com e with the gig of our walk in life. Although I always considered myself to be open minded and understanding of people and their needs that just continues to grow with time. I have enjoyed involving into the person I am today and can’t wait to see what is next!
• I am pretty sure when it comes to having a good time I have not changed too much, although I may have toned it down a notch......or not.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• I am not really sure if there is a best or worst to being 28. I just know that every life experience counts and I am blessed to still be here living life and enjoying my friends and family.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• May 2001- Graduated from Western Illinois University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Arts.
• August 2001- Took an unforgettable trip to Europe with some friends from college. We visited Italy, Greece, France and Holland.
• November 2002- Made a complete career shift into Social Work and have been doing it ever since.
• August 2006- Purchased a home in Rockford, IL.
• September 2006- Started working as a sub-contractor for Steps to Grace Dance Academy and love it!
• May 2007- Got married to my wonderful husband Mike. I am pretty sure that is the most significant event for me to date.
Will you be attending the reunion: Yes
• Thank you to everyone who had pitched in to make this happen.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Sara DuFresne
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Occupation: Catering Sales Manager
Hometown: Currently, Covington, Kentucky
Marital Status: Divorced
Pets: Coco the Cat
What has changed about you?
• I am a lot more confident than I was in High School.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• 1999 - My dad got married
• 2000 - My little brother and sister (twins!) were born in May.
• 2002 - Started with Centerplate Catering, as a Banquet and Retail Outlet Manager at the Seagate Convention Center
• 2003 - Transferred to Indianapolis, IN and worked at the Indianapolis Convention Center and RCA Dome as a banquet manager then was promoted to Catering Sales Manager and was transferred to Covington, Kentucky.
Will you be attending the reunion: No, but I wish I could!
Occupation: Catering Sales Manager
Hometown: Currently, Covington, Kentucky
Marital Status: Divorced
Pets: Coco the Cat
What has changed about you?
• I am a lot more confident than I was in High School.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• 1999 - My dad got married
• 2000 - My little brother and sister (twins!) were born in May.
• 2002 - Started with Centerplate Catering, as a Banquet and Retail Outlet Manager at the Seagate Convention Center
• 2003 - Transferred to Indianapolis, IN and worked at the Indianapolis Convention Center and RCA Dome as a banquet manager then was promoted to Catering Sales Manager and was transferred to Covington, Kentucky.
Will you be attending the reunion: No, but I wish I could!
Andi Beth/Andrea(now) (Eikedahl) Shepherd
.
Occupation: I teach second grade at Washington Elementary School in Belvidere.
Hometown: Belvidere, IL I never thought that I would live in this town, but I have to say that I enjoy it! Call me crazy!
Marital Status: I met my husband at ISU and he is actually from Rockford and attended Boylan. It is very nice that both of our families are close by. We just celebrated our 3-year anniversary!
Spouse's Name & Occupation: My husband’s name is Chris Shepherd. He works for a 3rd party logistics company call C.H. Robinson Worldwide. He does sales for the company.
Children: We have a daughter named Kiersten Erin and she will be 1 on September 10!
Pets: We have a 4 year old golden retriever named Bogie. He is still jealous that he’s not the baby anymore!
What has changed about you?
• Well, after graduating from college and getting a real job, reality set in and I grew up fast. No more late nights and wild parties.
What hasn't?
• I’m still always running late and doing things at the last minute. I like to add extra stress to my life!
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• The best thing would have to be that things have settled down and I feel happy and secure with my life. I still feel young and know that I have time to do so many more things with my life! The worst thing would have to be that we are all knocking on 30’s door.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• 2002 Graduated from Illinois State
• 2002 Got my first real job teaching 2nd Grade
• 2004 Married my husband
• 2006 Graduated from St. Xavier University with a Master’s Degree in Education
• 2006 Our first daughter was born and we named her Kiersten Erin after my Norwegian grandmother and my older sister who is no longer with us. She has changed our lives so much and we are so lucky. We count our blessing everyday!!
Will you be attending the reunion:
• I will not be attending the reunion because we have a wedding that day out of town. It’s a close college friend to both of us, so we must go. My friends that are attending will update me. I know that they are excited to see everyone!
Occupation: I teach second grade at Washington Elementary School in Belvidere.
Hometown: Belvidere, IL I never thought that I would live in this town, but I have to say that I enjoy it! Call me crazy!
Marital Status: I met my husband at ISU and he is actually from Rockford and attended Boylan. It is very nice that both of our families are close by. We just celebrated our 3-year anniversary!
Spouse's Name & Occupation: My husband’s name is Chris Shepherd. He works for a 3rd party logistics company call C.H. Robinson Worldwide. He does sales for the company.
Children: We have a daughter named Kiersten Erin and she will be 1 on September 10!
Pets: We have a 4 year old golden retriever named Bogie. He is still jealous that he’s not the baby anymore!
What has changed about you?
• Well, after graduating from college and getting a real job, reality set in and I grew up fast. No more late nights and wild parties.
What hasn't?
• I’m still always running late and doing things at the last minute. I like to add extra stress to my life!
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• The best thing would have to be that things have settled down and I feel happy and secure with my life. I still feel young and know that I have time to do so many more things with my life! The worst thing would have to be that we are all knocking on 30’s door.
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• 2002 Graduated from Illinois State
• 2002 Got my first real job teaching 2nd Grade
• 2004 Married my husband
• 2006 Graduated from St. Xavier University with a Master’s Degree in Education
• 2006 Our first daughter was born and we named her Kiersten Erin after my Norwegian grandmother and my older sister who is no longer with us. She has changed our lives so much and we are so lucky. We count our blessing everyday!!
Will you be attending the reunion:
• I will not be attending the reunion because we have a wedding that day out of town. It’s a close college friend to both of us, so we must go. My friends that are attending will update me. I know that they are excited to see everyone!
RaeAnn Diamond
.
Occupation: General Manager - Wausau Center Mall; CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.
Hometown: Wausau, WI
Marital Status: Single, but with an amazing boyfriend
Boyfriend's Name & Occupation: Joe Hrudkaj, Informational Technologies, Marshfield Clinic
What has changed about you?
• I think I'm much more outgoing and open to new activities and relationships. I was very shy in high school, and now I'm adventurous and can be a little crazy at times. I love being spontaneous, which is a trait I've gained over the past 10 years. I've definitely gained a lot of leadership skills over the years as well, which carries into my career.
What hasn't?
• I still love to make people laugh, even at my own expense.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• I love being so independent! I feel like at 28, it all makes sense... everything I've been doing over the last 10 years has really come full circle and I'm loving life!
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• December 2001: Graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater with a BA in Speech Communications - Public Relations.
• January 2002: Landed my first job as the "Afternoon Drive" girl at a small-market radio station in Southeastern Wisconsin.
• October 2003: Moved to Rockford to become the Assistant Marketing Director at CherryVale Mall - began my career with CBL Properties; the 3rd largest owner and developer of malls in the country.
• October 2004: Received a promotion to Marketing Director at Wausau Center Mall in Wausau, Wisconsin.
• June 2006: Witnessed the birth of my beautiful "niece", Alexis Ann.
• July 2007: Promoted to General Manager of Wausau Center Mall.
Will you be attending the reunion: Not sure
• I'm returning from vacation that day.
Occupation: General Manager - Wausau Center Mall; CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.
Hometown: Wausau, WI
Marital Status: Single, but with an amazing boyfriend
Boyfriend's Name & Occupation: Joe Hrudkaj, Informational Technologies, Marshfield Clinic
What has changed about you?
• I think I'm much more outgoing and open to new activities and relationships. I was very shy in high school, and now I'm adventurous and can be a little crazy at times. I love being spontaneous, which is a trait I've gained over the past 10 years. I've definitely gained a lot of leadership skills over the years as well, which carries into my career.
What hasn't?
• I still love to make people laugh, even at my own expense.
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• I love being so independent! I feel like at 28, it all makes sense... everything I've been doing over the last 10 years has really come full circle and I'm loving life!
Significant events for you in the last 10 years:
• December 2001: Graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater with a BA in Speech Communications - Public Relations.
• January 2002: Landed my first job as the "Afternoon Drive" girl at a small-market radio station in Southeastern Wisconsin.
• October 2003: Moved to Rockford to become the Assistant Marketing Director at CherryVale Mall - began my career with CBL Properties; the 3rd largest owner and developer of malls in the country.
• October 2004: Received a promotion to Marketing Director at Wausau Center Mall in Wausau, Wisconsin.
• June 2006: Witnessed the birth of my beautiful "niece", Alexis Ann.
• July 2007: Promoted to General Manager of Wausau Center Mall.
Will you be attending the reunion: Not sure
• I'm returning from vacation that day.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Kim (Nelson) Lawler
.
Occupation: Pediatrician, Chef, Chauffeur, Housekeeper, Child Psychologist, Personal shopper…just a few hats I wear as a full time mom!
Hometown: Currently, South Bend, IN
Marital Status: Married to Scott Lawler, Head Assistant Baseball Coach, Recruiting Coordinator, University of Notre Dame.
Children: Lucas, 20 months and expecting our second child (a girl) around September 20.
Pets: Cooper, 5 year old Black Lab.
What has changed about you? What hasn't?
• My hair. I change it about every six months! I have fun with it and it always grows back!
• Seriously tough, I am much more patient and self-less. I think those traits pretty much go hand in hand with trying to be a good wife and mother.
• What hasn’t changed is that I still love to run and compete!
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• Worst thing about being in my late 20’s is not appreciating and taking advantage of my younger years as much as I would have liked.
• The Best thing is that we are actually really young and God willing, still have so much to do and experience ahead of us!
Significant events for me in the last 10 years:
• August 1997, Left for NIU to discover a whole new world outside of Btown. Besides going to class, I ran Cross Country and made friends for life! I really blossomed as a person and discovered what it means to be independent, which was scary and exciting all at the same time! I actually enjoyed the educational aspect of college…and the parties too!
• May 2001, Graduated from NIU with a BA in Corporate Communication and hired by Eli Lilly & Co as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative in Rockford, IL.
• June 2002, Engaged to Scott and moved to Evansville, IN to support his career. Transferred with Lilly. Bought our first house and got a dog!
• June 2003, Married the man of my dreams!
• July 2005, Moved to Little Rock, AR (5 months pregnant) to support Scott’s coaching career, at which point I retired from the professional workforce. Bought our second house!
• December 2005, Gave birth to Lucas 8lbs, 10oz., 21in….lots of GREAT prescriptions drugs!
• July 2006, Moved to South Bend, IN for a great opportunity with the University of Notre Dame. Bought our third house. I guess I should add Real Estate agent to my list of titles.
• September 2007, in South Bend and planning on being here for a bit, which is a significant event in our career. Baby number two is coming any day now!
Will you be attending the reunion: Undecided at this time.
• I can’t think of any better way to celebrate my 28th birthday! I would love to attend, however, with a new baby, and 22-month-old, the travel may be too difficult on my own. Scott has work obligations that weekend.
I can’t believe that it has already been 10 years. Hopefully the old saying that things get better with age holds true in all aspects of our lives! It has been great looking at the profiles on the blog. I wish all of you a healthy, safe and happy year! A special thanks to Miriam for taking the time and effort to put this great communication tool together and to Maggie and all the others behind the scenes who are making the effort to reconnect!
Occupation: Pediatrician, Chef, Chauffeur, Housekeeper, Child Psychologist, Personal shopper…just a few hats I wear as a full time mom!
Hometown: Currently, South Bend, IN
Marital Status: Married to Scott Lawler, Head Assistant Baseball Coach, Recruiting Coordinator, University of Notre Dame.
Children: Lucas, 20 months and expecting our second child (a girl) around September 20.
Pets: Cooper, 5 year old Black Lab.
What has changed about you? What hasn't?
• My hair. I change it about every six months! I have fun with it and it always grows back!
• Seriously tough, I am much more patient and self-less. I think those traits pretty much go hand in hand with trying to be a good wife and mother.
• What hasn’t changed is that I still love to run and compete!
Best (or Worst) thing about being in your late 20's.
• Worst thing about being in my late 20’s is not appreciating and taking advantage of my younger years as much as I would have liked.
• The Best thing is that we are actually really young and God willing, still have so much to do and experience ahead of us!
Significant events for me in the last 10 years:
• August 1997, Left for NIU to discover a whole new world outside of Btown. Besides going to class, I ran Cross Country and made friends for life! I really blossomed as a person and discovered what it means to be independent, which was scary and exciting all at the same time! I actually enjoyed the educational aspect of college…and the parties too!
• May 2001, Graduated from NIU with a BA in Corporate Communication and hired by Eli Lilly & Co as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative in Rockford, IL.
• June 2002, Engaged to Scott and moved to Evansville, IN to support his career. Transferred with Lilly. Bought our first house and got a dog!
• June 2003, Married the man of my dreams!
• July 2005, Moved to Little Rock, AR (5 months pregnant) to support Scott’s coaching career, at which point I retired from the professional workforce. Bought our second house!
• December 2005, Gave birth to Lucas 8lbs, 10oz., 21in….lots of GREAT prescriptions drugs!
• July 2006, Moved to South Bend, IN for a great opportunity with the University of Notre Dame. Bought our third house. I guess I should add Real Estate agent to my list of titles.
• September 2007, in South Bend and planning on being here for a bit, which is a significant event in our career. Baby number two is coming any day now!
Will you be attending the reunion: Undecided at this time.
• I can’t think of any better way to celebrate my 28th birthday! I would love to attend, however, with a new baby, and 22-month-old, the travel may be too difficult on my own. Scott has work obligations that weekend.
I can’t believe that it has already been 10 years. Hopefully the old saying that things get better with age holds true in all aspects of our lives! It has been great looking at the profiles on the blog. I wish all of you a healthy, safe and happy year! A special thanks to Miriam for taking the time and effort to put this great communication tool together and to Maggie and all the others behind the scenes who are making the effort to reconnect!
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