2000 Class Newsletter
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January 2000
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Happy 2000 everybody! I hope this finds you all well and back into your “normal lives” after a nice holiday break! As I’m sitting here watching my beloved Washington Redskins pummel the Detroit Lions, with Triscuits and Easy Cheese in close reach, I’m trying to figure out where the past 12 months went! It has been a year full of good changes for me: new job (still with the Coast Guard though), new city (Hola Miami), new girlfriend, new roommate (not my girlfriend), and new dreams for a new millennium!
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I really enjoyed reading all the updates I received - last year I heard from 38 of our classmates...I’m happy to say this year over 50 people sent something to me! As always, this is not MY class newsletter - it’s OUR class newsletter and I’m just lucky enough to be the guy who puts it all together. I look forward to hearing from you all again soon...maybe we can even track down some of our “missing” classmates! Enjoy yourselves and keep in touch everybody!
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Take care,
Chris
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| Ahuja, Dev |
| Dev dropped me an email and in doing so took over the much coveted “first entry” in the class newsletter. In addition, he is also the winner of the most creative email address competition. Honorable mention in the contest: Jen Woodward. Dev writes, “After I left Japan, I moved to San Francisco, finished college, and now work for Wells Fargo as an analyst.” I think that’s the shortest summary of six years that I’ve ever heard! Dev plans to spend 2000 doing some travelling and returning to school.
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| Aschman, Carrie |
| Carrie is still in Dayton, Ohio and working for Design Forum, a retail design company. She writes, “I have gotten to work on some neat projects, most recently designing the new Infiniti car dealerships and a Breyers ice cream store.” As the designer, do you think she gets discounts at those places? Just in case you do Carrie, I’m a BIG fan of both and I have a birthday coming up! For those of you in Tokyo, check out the new Mos Burger in Sengenjaya that her company recently designed.
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| Baba, Marie |
| Remember Marie? She only attended ASIJ from 8th to 11th grade, but was recently back working in Japan. She writes, “I just spent two years teaching at a junior high school in Chiba-ken and am now enjoying some time with my brand new niece.” Marie is back in Southern Cal, so get in touch with her if you’re also down there. She would especially like to hear from Chantal (so would I actually) so if you’re reading this Chantal…let us know you’re alive!
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| Babb, Allison |
| Allison is still living in Manhattan and working as an analyst at Goldman, Sachs & Co. She writes, “I am currently looking into graduate school to get my MBA, but my plans are still up in the air. I would love to hear from other ASIJers living in NYC - it would be great to get together here sometime!” Did I just get a volunteer to coordinate our 10-year reunion in NYC? Allison sends greetings to Jen Woodward out in California…
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| Boston, Amy (Beverley) |
| Amy sounded very busy, but happy, in the email she sent me. She writes, “Other than staying home with my two girls, I have started my own business. I design/host wedding websites that hold all the information a guest could need.” I know we’ve got some weddings coming up in the class this year, so check out Amy’s business (address is above) and maybe she could design you your very own wedding website! Best of luck with the business and everything else Amy!
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| Brinkmann, Melissa |
| I just received an email, literally five minutes ago, from Melissa who I was about to add to the infamous list of “missing” classmates. I guess the Air Force is still keeping her pretty busy. She writes, “I just moved to Syracuse, New York for another job with the Air Force. I also finished my Masters and will be getting out in a year and a half.” Better late than never I always say…thanks for the update Melissa!
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| Bryner, Leila |
| Leila sent me “the scoop” on her life and it sounds pretty darn good to me. She writes, “I am working for Greenwich Associates - a financial consulting firm and I am loving it. I work some grueling hours, but it’s been a wonderful experience. The people are great and I can even practice some Japanese with a few of the consultants!” I can’t think of the last time I heard the words “grueling” and “wonderful” used in the same sentence. Leila took her annual two-week vacation to Switzerland in December and I hope she’ll tell us all about it soon! She keeps in touch with Rami Ramirez and Jennifer Yates, who are both doing great, and spent some time with Peter Cheyne last year in Washington, DC.
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| Buckley, Peter |
| Peter wrote me an email from the Great White North (a.k.a. Toronto) to let us all know what’s up with him. He writes, “I am working for Canadian Airlines still…using my flying benefits to vacation in Thailand, Miami, and New York this year. Looking at Argentina and Ireland next year.” So Peter, ever dream of being in the Coast Guard? I know a guy down in Miami who would switch jobs with you in a second! I could probably even get him to throw in his position as ASIJ ’93 Class Agent if you want it. Still keeping in touch with Rich Bull and Jared Green, Peter recently met up with Tiffany Lai who also lives in Toronto.
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| Burgess, Ryan |
| Ryan is living and working in Grand Rapids, but it sounds like he’s looking to leave soon. He writes, “I am in the middle of my second year teaching Latin and Japanese at a public school…so far I love teaching and enjoy having my summers off, but I’m anxious to move back overseas. I am applying all over the world for a high school English teaching position, so if anyone could hook me up…I’d appreciate it!” Ryan took a road trip last summer, “partying all up and down the east coast.” He’s hoping to make a ski trip out to Colorado this winter. Tell those snow bunnies I said “hi” and good luck with the job hunt Ryan!
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| Clark, Matt |
| After graduating from Georgetown in May 1998, Matt went back to Japan to work for JP Morgan as an internal consultant. He writes, “I soon got fed up of being in Japan and wanted to shake things up a bit. I managed to get myself transferred this past October to the New York office where I now work.” Matt also said that while he is enjoying NY for now, he is hoping to eventually get over to Europe. Well Matt, maybe while you’re still stateside you can help Allison plan that NYC reunion!
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| Cruz, Cathy |
| I got a nice long email from Cathy full of news about her life on Guam. She even granted me “chop and edit” rights for her update, something I’m sure a writer hates to ever give anyone. Cathy is still assistant editor of Glimpses Publications, which does Guam Business magazine, Marine Drive magazine, and other publications about Micronesia and the Pacific. She writes, “The biggest shocker of the year was when I was named the region’s Small Business Journalist of the Year 2000 by the U.S. Small Business Administration.” Big-time congrats to Cathy! Life is not all hard work for her though…listen to this: “Fun-wise, I went with my reporting team to Palau this year…which has some of the most beautiful dive spots in the world, including Jellyfish Lake, a lake that holds thousands of jellyfish. You can actually swim with the jellyfish. They’ve lost their sting due to thousands of years isolated from predators.” Cathy plans some follow-up trips back to Palau, but is looking for a new journalism job out of the Pacific. She is planning to get together this month with Sun Choi, who’s currently living in Seoul, while Sun visits Guam.
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| Dewanto, Hisako (Watanabe) |
| I have some old news and new news about Hisako who lives in Surabaya, Indonesia with her husband and two-year-old daughter Michelle. She writes, “After attending the University of Southern California (with Mari Nagasue), I earned my BS in Business Administration with an emphasis on Entrepreneurship in 1997. I married my husband, whom I met in college, in October 1997.” Hisako recently traveled to India for business with her husband, but returned in mid-November to get settled in their new home. As for the millennium, she writes, “We will be going to Bali where my family from Japan will be joining us. Then as soon as we return from Bali…we will be leaving for Egypt on the 4th! Basically, our holiday will be one month long because we have a long Muslim holiday right after New Years ” Be sure to take some pictures of yourself on camelback by the pyramids and send them into the ambassador! Planning travel to the U.S. and Europe in 2000, Hisako hopes to meet up with lots of ASIJers.
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| Doran, Jill |
| Jill reported in from Washington, DC where she works as a fundraising consultant at a software company specializing in information solutions for colleges and universities. She writes, “I was Finance Director for a congressional campaign last election cycle and soon learned that working 12-14 hour days, 6-7 days a week, for five months or so can be done…you’re just never the same again and your body requires that when you’ve finished such a grueling schedule the next few months you must not: 1) Answer a phone; 2) Veg for less than 8 hours a day; and 3) Do anything more productive than grocery shopping.” Well, I’ve never been Finance Director for a congressional campaign, but I’ve always found grocery shopping extremely painful…not as painful as going shopping at the mall, but still quite painful. I hope you’re enjoying the new job/lifestyle Jill.
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| Endo, Bill |
| Bill is currently working for Hayward Baker, Inc., a geotechnical contracting company. He didn’t mention what type of work that is exactly…probably assuming I’d be smart enough to figure it out on my own. Can anyone help me out here? Bill writes, “Most recently I have been on jobs in Trinidad, Wisconsin and Atlantic City, New Jersey. I am still living in Maryland, but spend most of my spare time up in Boston.” Thanks for the update Bill!
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| Eshkol, Gali |
| Gali submitted an update from Israel for the Eshkol twins. She writes, “Kinn is still working as an administrative assistant for an American construction company currently building a new airport terminal. She took three weeks off to take a course for paramedics…she’ll be able to ride around in ambulances after that!” As if riding around in ambulances wasn’t enough excitement for one update, Gali has more great news! “I’m getting married! Yippee! His name is Chen - we met in the army, and have been together (5 years) ever since. He’s studying for a BA in Business Administration and works for an insurance company as a computer system administrator. I’m still working in the marketing department of a hi-tech company in Tel Aviv, plus I’m in my third year as an English Lit major at Tel Aviv University.” The wedding is set for May 31, 2000 and Tiffany Lai, Chi-Ling Lin, and Tara Malloy are suppose to attend. Best wishes Gali and enjoy your big day!
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| Ferguson, Kristian |
| Kristian wrote me an email from my old stomping grounds of Fairfax, Virginia. Go Robinson Rams! He writes, “I graduated from Virginia Tech in 1998 and currently work in Falls Church at an internet company (address is above).” Sorry about the Sugar Bowl man, I was cheering for the Hokies, but being #2 in the nation ain’t too bad either. Kristian is looking to get in touch with Richard Bull, one of our “missing” classmates, so drop him a line if you’re reading this Rich.
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| Filippo, Tristen |
| Tristen began her email by saying how sorry she was for not submitting any news last year. Well, I’ve always believed the most sincere apologies were ones with $$$ attached, so I’m sure a nice Bank of America envelope will be arriving from Austin, Texas any day now. She writes, “I am a divorced mom…my son Ethan is now three and a half years old. He is the joy of my life. I am currently pursuing law and hope to be at the University of Texas Law School within the next year or two. I guess I should mention I work for Bank of America, and yes, it is as glamorous as it sounds!!!” Tristen also mentioned how much she enjoyed attended the DC reunion with Jane Kim who is now living in Killeen, TX and working for Sally Mae. “We stayed in touch over the years…she is still the wonderful little Jane that everyone loved so dearly in Japan.” In addition to being wonderful, Jane is the newest Class of ’93 mommy, that I know of at least, giving birth to Cameron Hope Warner on December 13th. Please let me know if we’ve got any more millennium babies out there…
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| Fink, Jill |
| Jill wrote me a nice email from Philadelphia where she recently bought a house to share with Gretta, her rottweiler and hiking partner. She writes, “I am now working as Public Affairs for the Director of the Pennsylvania affiliate of the National Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action League. We’re doing a lot of work right now around contraceptive coverage, health care for the uninsured/working poor, and planning for the Republican National Convention that will be in town next summer.” Well Jill, I hope you don’t have to tell people what you do for a living very often, because that is a mouthful! Hey Philly ASIJers, Jill knows you’re out there…drop her a line and you all can get together for a cheesesteak party or something.
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| Floyd, Lisa |
| Lisa is still working as a catering director, but has relocated to Washington, DC. She writes, “I now work at a place called The Club at Franklin Square. My parents are very close, which is the main reason that I moved up here.” What about the mighty Redskins? I would think they’d be more than enough reason for anyone to move to DC! Lisa has been in touch with several classmates: Melissa Shimizu, Missy Brinkmann, and recently Nagisa Singh. She has also been in touch with one of my ex-girlfriends, who I’m sure provided plenty of “nice” stories about me. You know Lisa, that offer to cater the next reunion is still open…
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| Fluss, Paul |
| After graduating from Purdue University in May 1999 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Paul took a job “riding, fixing, and selling motorcycles for my local Honda-Yamaha-Kawasaki dealer. In the summer I roadraced a vintage Yamaha at racetracks around the Midwest, although I have not had much success so far.” Paul has aspirations to win the championship next year, which he equates to winning a “curling tournament” or something similar. He writes, “I am currently living in Nashville, TN and working as a design engineer for a company called Murray, Inc. I decided to quit my nice cushy motorcycle sales job and join the rat race at last.” Welcome Paul, it’s about time you stopped having so much fun and joined the rest of us.
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| Harrison, Marti |
| Marti was at ASIJ for elementary school and now works for Hormel Foods. She writes, “I have just been promoted to a larger account in Boston…it has been hectic trying to relocate in the midst of the holidays. I will be working on the Stop & Shop account.” Good luck with the move Marti and let us know once you get settled up north!
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| Inahara, Kaoru |
| Pull out those yearbooks everyone! Kaoru was at ASIJ for 4th and 5th grade, and is really interested to know how everyone is doing. She writes, “I’m in my second year working in the overseas project division of Toyota in Japan. I’m living in Aichi right now, a totally new experience…surrounded by beautiful Japanese scenery, but I really miss living in Tokyo with family and friends. If there are any ASIJ alumni in the Nagoya area, please let me know!” Alright everyone, you heard the woman. Kaoru spends her time off in Okinawa where she hopes to eventually find a job and move in the next two years. Thanks for getting back in touch with us Kaoru!
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| Jordan, John |
| John is living in Garland, Texas and doing aircraft mechanic work for a company called Aircraft Ducting Repair. He graduated from LeTourneau University in December 1997 with a degree in Aviation Technology and worked in that field for about six months. I guess I’ll let him continue the story, “I got tired of the FAA and left…since then, I have worked for the U.S. Border Patrol, done lumberjacking in Colorado, managed a friend’s lube shop, and other odd jobs. I was also in Dallas working for a company called MicroTechnology Services, Inc. producing sales and instructional videos for law enforcement surveillance systems.” Whoa! I got tired just reading about all the stuff you’ve been doing in the last few years! John is currently “working out hard and reprocessing my application to the Border Patrol.” He may join the Marines as either an infantry or aircraft maintenance officer.
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| Kanayama, Maki |
| Congratulations to Maki for finishing her Masters in East Asian Studies at Stanford University in June and starting up her law degree just down the road at Santa Clara University Law School. She writes, “Not much travelling or time off except to dive into a new set of books. I’m planning to spend my Christmas in Japan and celebrate the New Year in San Francisco.” I hope you enjoyed the holidays Maki and got to rest your brain a little bit before returning to class!
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| Kuperman, Jeff |
| Jeff, who thinks he left ASIJ in 6th grade, said life is going well for him, his girlfriend, and their two cats in Reston, Virginia. He writes, “I’m working hard as a web developer for PSINet, as well as on my own time for my company, Jaywalk Design. My brother and I visited Tokyo for a week last December and had a blast! We had the chance to visit the ASIJ campus and reminisce…visit our favorite udon and yakitori stands…also had a chance to check out some of the kickin’ night life that I was too young to experience when I lived there!” Sounds like you definitely made the most of those seven days! Jeff also made this offer to everyone, “If anyone is in DC and wants to party it up, come to me, I’ll show the way!” Now if you all can pass up an deal like that, you’ve got more willpower than me…save me a spot on the Partymobile buddy!
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| Leeper, Shana (McIllwain) |
| From her email, it sounds like 1999 was a very full year out in Colorado for Shana. She writes, “I am in the process of applying to Colorado State University to get my Masters in Social Work. In the meantime, I’m trying to get my state certification in Case Management Services for several Medicaid waiver programs for children and adults with developmental disabilities. In January 1999, I took a job working for a non-profit agency (The Resource Exchange) which contracts with the state’s Department of Human Services to provide case management services for three counties in southern Colorado. I love my job…I have 73 clients who range in age from 18 months to 70+ years. Needless to say, it’s never dull or boring.” As if her professional life wasn’t keeping her busy enough, Shana has quite an active personal life too. “My husband and I got married on July 25, 1999 at the U.S. Air Force Academy and took a short honeymoon to a cabin in the mountains. My husband graduated from the Colorado Springs Police Academy on December 10th and is now in a 14-week field training session before he hits the streets on his own.” Shana and her newly commissioned officer hubby plan to start 2000 by trying their hand at remodeling and putting hardwood floors in their home. Be sure to let us know how it goes with school, the house, and everything else!
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| Lin, Chi-Ling |
| Chi sent a nice long email full of news about her busy life in Hawaii. She writes, “I’m still in my graduate program (Physiology)…anticipated graduation date: May 2000. I’ve been doing research on a newly discovered virus and I’m looking into its prevalence in children and modes of transmission.” Chi also assured me that she’s “studying, working, and playing as usual” and anyone taking a trip to the Land of Aloha should look her up. She still keeps in touch with Tiff Lai, Kinn and Gali Eshkol, Cathy Cruz, Tara Malloy, Lisa Witt, Junko Tamiya, Haruna Tada, Nick Lam, and Mayumi Nakayama. Well, I guess I know who my vote is for the next Class Agent! Chi also wanted everyone to know that her sister Pei-Ling (’88) got married and she’s planning to send pictures to the ambassador soon. Thanks for making me homesick for Hawaii once again Chi…soak up some sun for this Aiea ex-pat!
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| Malloy, Tara |
| Tara wrote me an email back in July when she was on a Fulbright scholarship in Bonn, Germany. She writes, “Graduated from Emory University last year with a double-major in Comparative Literature and History. Faced with the shock that Lit majors are not the hot commodity on the job market that they used to be…I applied to law school. I’ll be attending Yale in fall 1999, concentrating hopefully in International Law and Human Rights.” So, when exactly were Lit majors a “hot commodity” in this world? 1850? Tara planned to spend the remainder of her time in Europe travelling along the coasts of Yugoslavia, Greece, and Turkey. Thanks for the update Tara and let us know how things are going in New Haven!
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| McCormick, Shannon |
| Not a whole lot of new stuff from Shannon, but I appreciate emails regardless of how much info they contain. She is the assistant editor, not the assistant to the managing editor (as written in the last ambassador), at Teen People. Sorry about the mistake Shannon…think you can still get me an autographed picture of Hanson?
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| McMunn, Chris |
| All I can say is…what a difference a year makes! When we last left Chris, he was a fledgling flight school student in Pensacola, Florida. Well, I decided to leave the program in April and about a month later the Coast Guard sent me (kicking and screaming I assure you) to a staff job down here in Miami. I work in the Office of Aids to Navigation and Waterways Management for Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Anyone seeking a greater explanation of my job (a.k.a. a sure-fire cure for insomnia), please let me know and I will elaborate. So, when I’m not alligator wrestling or fulfilling my duties as Vice President of the Florida Chapter of the Ricky Martin Fan Club, I’m taking classes for my Masters of Education in Secondary Social Studies. That pretty much covers the field of high school U.S. history, government, world geography, economics, etc. I plan to teach once I get out of the Coast Guard in 2002. I do a radio show (MC’s Mix) on a local college station where I get to spin some 80’s rock and spew my worldly opinions every Sunday morning. Of course, none of the kids in college right now even know who Dexy’s Midnight Runners, Erasure, or Bananarama are, but I’m still enjoying myself! I spent New Years in Maui with my family and girlfriend, reliving my old (it was like a year ago) days of fun and sun in paradise. My roommate, a classmate from the Coast Guard Academy and fellow slacker flight school drop-out, and I have a nice place with plenty of extra room about 30 minutes from either Miami Beach or Fort Lauderdale. Don’t hesitate to give me a ring if you’re ever in the area…I’ll even lock up our semi-schizophrenic cat Goose (of Top Gun fame) in the closet if you stop by to visit!
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| Nagasue, Mari |
| After completing her Master of Science degree with merit in Comparative Politics at the London School of Economics and Political Science, Mari moved to Washington, DC to work as an assistant to the Political Director at the National Organization of Women. She writes, “After that, I returned to Kyoto for a couple of months, but am now enrolled at La Sorbonne University in Paris and will be here till February 2000.” Wow…that’s quite a bit of moving around in the last twelve months! I’m currently taking wagers on what exciting location we will find Mari in next year! She would love for anyone living in Europe, or coming for a visit, to drop her a line.
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| Nakayama, Mayumi |
| As normal, I received a very long and very funny email from Mayumi who’s still out in Washington. It would be a travesty for me to even try to summarize her life, so here is most of it in her own words: “I am now working for a fairly large-size law firm in downtown Seattle. I know it’s such a change from what I have been doing (hotel, airline, travel agent work) but I think I like the change. My ex-husband (notice the EX part!!!) and I are still on talking terms, but I cannot stand the way he thinks: Women should stay at home, do stuff at home, raise children, and listen to the men. Well, this is the new millennium and I am not going with that. The man I have been friends with, who supported me through the divorce and was always there for me, is in California and we are having a long distance relationship. So far, my daughter Erica and I have gone to California twice to see him. We went to Disneyland both times…Erica loves it so much that she learned the word “Goofy” in like two seconds! My boyfriend takes care of her like his own, though he has no children, and she loves him to death. I wonder sometimes who it is having a relationship with this man - me or her? I don’t know what else is new, but I will be having big news in 2000. I just can’t say it out loud yet.” When she’s not hanging out with Goofy (the Disney character, not her new boyfriend), Mayumi keeps in touch with Shana Leeper (McIllwain), Mari Nagasue, and Haruna Tada. She’s been trying to contact Junko Tamiya now that she’s spending so much time down in the Southern California area. Mayumi also wants everyone to know that they better “come say hi” if they’re ever in Seattle. Finally, as I conclude the ASIJ ’93 Mayumi Newsletter, there are a couple adorable pictures of Erica on Haruna’s website (address is above) in Gallery One…go check them out next time you’re killing braincells on-line!
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| Ostermann, Naoko (Matsunaga) |
| Naoko is a recent transplant from London to the Bay area. She writes, “At the beginning of December, my husband and I moved after spending a year in London. It was hard to leave London since it is such an amazing city…this is the first time I’ve ever lived in California, but I’m enjoying it here in San Jose so far. The weather is beautiful and it’s also nice to be close to my parents who live here.” Naoko is working for the same company she was with in Europe, TeleAdapt, a mobile connectivity solutions company. She specializes in marketing and is working to build a presence in Japan. Naoko and Mark are still in a temporary corporate apartment (it’s probably about 10x nicer than my permanent non-corporate apartment) so her work phone number is above.
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| Ota, Shandy |
| Shandy is another one of our poor classmates who has to somehow survive in paradise. He moved to Maui in mid-December and is working at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua. He writes, “It should be challenging as well as a lot of fun. I am always ready to see some good old faces, so if anyone wants to come have fun in Maui…just contact me!” Shandy doesn’t have a permanent address yet and requests that people write him via email. He’s looking forward to hearing from people he hasn’t “written or spoken to in AGES” even if they just say “hi” in an email. Go ahead and drop Shandy a quick hello, but don’t expect a discounted suite at the Ritz-Carlton…I already tried that and didn’t even get a towel.
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| Parkinson, Craig |
| Craig was at ASIJ for 4th - 6th grade before going to Canada and eventually attending Queen’s University where he studied Environmental Science. He writes, “Upon graduation, I started to work at Merrill Lynch in Toronto. It was there that I noticed Chet Rockwell’s name in the company email directory. We got in touch and he’s really the only person I’ve talked to since I left ASIJ. I miss the people I met at ASIJ…whatever happened to Lyena Nomura?” I don’t know Craig, both Lyena and Chet are “missing” classmates right now. Anyone know where she is? Craig is currently at the University of Windsor Law School and would like to work in criminal or environmental law. He also had a special greeting for our “missing” retired Class Agent, “If you talk to Chantal, pass on my hello…I remember she has one earlobe connected and one earlobe wobbling free.” I guess Craig knows Chantal a little better than I do.
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| Perriard, Marta Lee |
| Marta wrote me a nice little email to add her input for the class newsletter. She writes, “After completing a BA in Paris, a Masters at Oxford, and marrying in Copenhagen, I am currently back at Oxford (Balliol College) reading for a Ph.D. in French and Francophone Literature.” I think Marta’s future plans include appearing on either Jeopardy or Who Wants To Be A Millionaire and crushing anyone who dares oppose her. She is hoping to hear from Ryan Burgess who “disappeared about a year ago.” Best of luck with the studies Marta…let us all know when we should start calling you Doctor Perriard!
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| Pocock, Eloise |
| Eloise is still living in London, but is now working at Salomon Smith Barney. She writes, “I am working for the transportation team in the corporate finance division. I’ve been working here about five months and just around the corner from where I sit, Jean La Fontaine (’90?) is sitting.” Thanks for checking in Eloise, be sure to give Jean a big Class of ’93 hug from all of us.
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| Premo, Suzanne |
| Suzanne sent me a very nice Christmas card that was much appreciated. As I’m sure you know, it’s always good to see anything other than a bill in the mailbox. After graduating in May 1999 from Purdue University with a degree in Hotel/Club Management, Suzanne was offered a position with Hyatt Hotels and started their corporate management training in June. She writes, “This program gives you exposure to all areas at the hotel and you’re evaluated in each department. At the end of the program you decide which you’d like to work in…I chose Human Resources and interviewed for a Benefits Manager position.” Suzanne is currently the Benefits Manager at the Hyatt Regency Woodfield in Schaumburg, Illinois. “I’m just trying to learn as much as possible in my new job and I love it! Hyatt is a great company to work for! I have a busy schedule, but would rather be running around than sitting around. If anyone is going through O’Hare anytime soon…pick up the phone and give me a ring…I’d love to hear from you!” I thought this might be a good time to point out that Suzanne didn’t give me her phone number.
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| Quinn, Katie |
| Katie was at ASIJ from 1981-86, but was recently back working in Japan. She writes, “I worked last year for the Japanese government and got a chance to brush up on my Japanese while living in Akita. I’m currently living in Virginia, working for United Airlines as a flight attendant. The lifestyle is crazy, but very exciting!” Ok, this is the moment I’ve been waiting years for - why the hell can’t I get the entire can of soda? Why am I just given a little cup that’s overflowing with these huge genetically mutated ice cubes? Sorry, but I had to get that off my chest. Only one month after returning to the states, Katie met a “lovely” man and the two were engaged only two months later! It truly sounds like a match made in heaven. Best of luck Katie, give the poor passengers the whole can of soda, and let us all know when the wedding is!
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| Reid, Tom “Homer” |
| Tom dropped me an email to say he’s still in Tokyo working as an analog circuit designer at Lucent Technologies. He writes, “This job is a nice way to combine my engineering and Japanese language skills…I’m enjoying it a lot. In a couple of years I’m hoping to move on to my company’s research facility in China, so I can practice my Mandarin.” By the way, Tom goes by the name “Homer” now, so I would like to be the first to welcome him as the only Homer in the class. Be sure to let us know if you’re headed over to China!
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| Riedy, Mike |
| Mike was nice enough to write me a note from the City of Brotherly Love where he was recently working for Lucent Technologies as a Sales Account Executive. He writes, “Right now I am living in Center City Philadelphia and looking for a job…hardcore sales was not my thing, so I’m looking for something that suits me better. My lease is up in June, so I may be moving to New York City or possibly Japan - wherever I can find a good job.” Mike also had a personal message that he requested be placed in the newsletter, and being the wonderfully hardworking and underappreciated Class Agent that I am, here it is: “Eddie, Ian, Greg, and Riki (if you’re around), let’s get together for another crazy NYC excursion.” Yeah guys, you can scout locations for the next reunion…please see Allison and Matt for more details.
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| Rodrig, Maya |
| Maya just got back from Europe where she spent three weeks of winter break in Amsterdam and Paris. She writes, “I am at Ohio State University studying Computer Science. I moved here last year with my boyfriend who’s doing a Ph.D. in International Relations. I made a change of direction after getting my BA in Business and International Relations from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (in Israel) and decided to get into computers. I will find out about grad schools in March or April, but am completing core undergrad prerequisites until then. I’m studying my butt off, but loving it.” Maya is planning a trip to San Francisco to see her sister (Rona) soon and is hoping to see Rachel Ito, Briney, and Christine Lee again. If you do see them Maya, put those “missing” classmates in a headlock and give them all noogies (that may not be the proper King’s English spelling) till they promise to write me next year. Thanks…
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| Rothwell, David |
| I received a one line email from David…I’ll try to see how much I can stretch it out. He writes, “I work at Andersen Consulting in Atlanta. I am about to finish my second year at the firm. I live in Buckhead, so if anyone is ever in town - drop me a line.” I was in Atlanta last year (1998) for New Year’s Eve and the Peach Bowl (where Virginia dumped a 21 point first half lead to lose to Georgia) and I must say that Buckhead is a great place. Even if you don’t know or like David, it would be worth putting up with him just to spend some time in Buckhead. Heck, I don’t even know David and I like the guy already…
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| Sakuma, Katie |
| Katie lives in Charlotte, North Carolina and started a new job in February as a consultant for Osprey Systems. She writes, “I work in the supply chain solutions practice and implement all kinds of software packages…mostly in manufacturing settings. It’s a great change from the engineering work I was doing at International Paper. I just spent two weeks in Japan travelling with my family…we got Japan Rail passes and traveled across the country. It was really fun!” Katie still keeps in touch with Radhika Dani, Jill Fink, Pete Buckley, and Julie McCord. She’s hoping to get up north and visit with them all soon! Thanks for the update Katie and send some pictures to the ambassador from your “riding the rails” adventure!
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| Stolz, Brian |
| Brian moved to Tokyo in July and it sounds like he’s really enjoyed being back. He writes, “Life in Tokyo is great the second time around…I am still employed by Bank of America in their M&A department. I recently closed a transaction between our Japanese client and one of their Korean competitors…it gave me an excuse to head to Korea for the first time. My current plan is to stay in Japan until April 2001, travel for a few months, and enroll in an MBA program. If that doesn’t work, I’ll figure something else out, but for now I’m having a great time back in Tokyo.” Sounds like a pretty good plan to me. Brian regularly sees Jesper Edman, Kin-ei Lin, Riki Hudachek and Emile Goldberg. He has also recently seen Shandy Ota, Shinta Kano, and Matt Clark. Hey Brian, since almost all those guys are “missing” classmates, maybe you can become the Tokyo Class Agent and submit news for them. Go enjoy some yakitori for me…
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| Tada, Haruna |
| Haruna sent me a short email with her new mailing address and webpage (see address above). She writes, “I’ve been working for Lucent Technologies in Holmdel, New Jersey since moving down here in mid-August. I’m having a great time…making new friends, going to NYC, and heading up to Boston once in a while to visit college friends.” I checked out Haruna’s webpage and it’s definitely worth a visit. Take a look next time you’re trying to look busy at work by surfing the net.
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| Tamiya, Junko |
| I think Junko was trying to take over the shortest email competition, but sorry…David Rothwell is the undisputed winner. She writes, “I am still in graduate school at The Scripps Research Institute studying chemistry. I’ll be here for another two years or so…if anyone will be in Southern California, I’d love it if they dropped me a line.” So, I have two questions: 1) Is Oceanside as much fun as Buckhead; and 2) Are you taking reservations yet for New Years Eve? Thanks for the update Junko!
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| Wechselberger, Amy |
| I received a letter from Amy back in February, so I don’t know if what she was doing then is what she’s still doing now…but here it is: “I went to Clemson University in South Carolina where I studied Elementary Education. I immediately started graduate school and after a year I received my Masters in Special Education. Currently, I am teaching 30 fifth graders in a regular education classroom in Prince Georges County, Maryland. If anyone knows this area, it is as tough as it sounds.” Yes, I do actually know the area - I am afraid to even drive past the schools there. At least it sounds like Amy has kept her sense of humor! She writes, “I guess I deserve this because I was no angel in school either. I am very happy teaching here, but I do miss the beautiful weather in South Carolina. My parents have moved to California, so I am seriously considering moving there in search of better weather.” Amy would love to hear from anyone in or out of her area. Good luck with the teaching and I hope you find a nicer climate soon!
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| Woodward, Jen |
| First, props to Jen for taking honorable mention in the most creative email address competition. I probably should have let her win considering she did write an article and send in pictures from the DC reunion. Check out Jen’s writing (I assure you it’s much more refined than this piece of trash I publish once a year) and pictures (you all are a bunch of damn fine looking people if you ask me) on page 89 in the ambassador’s Fall edition. And while you’ve got the ambassador out, check out the picture from Agathe Blanchon’s July wedding on the next page. Ok, back to Jen who’s still out in Huntington Beach working and playing as usual. She writes, “I have a new job in pharmacuticals…I work with great people and I dig it! I have been in touch with Allison Babb and Nick Lam by email as of late…I miss everyone and hope that someday I can get in touch with all the old buddies from ASIJ. Heard from Coach Durfee the other week, I believe he lives in Northern Cali…not sure…it was such a shock.” Jen also provided some info on a couple “missing” classmates, but I wasn’t sure if she was asking or telling me about them. I’ll let you decide: “I heard from my mom that Cara Naylor and Crystal English were living together in San Francisco. Is it true? Briney Dillon and Rachel Ito are there too. Jill Hudkins’s parents and mine partied together for New Years. I always get the lowdown on what she is up to. Hi Jill! Love ya girl!” Thanks for all the news Jen…sorry this ending is so uncreative (I was planning to make a joke about wanting to party with your parents next New Years), but you are almost the last entry and my brain hurts.
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| Yates, Jennifer |
| Jennifer wrote me from Campaign, Illinois where she works full-time at a bank. She writes, “I am back in school and hoping to finish soon. I’m getting married on June 10, 2000 to Randall Phillips.” Congratulations Jennifer on the upcoming nuptial! Be sure to send some pictures into the ambassador so we can all check this guy out. Jennifer talks regularly with Rami Ramirez and Leila Bryner, and also wanted everyone to know what a “blast” she had seeing all the familiar faces at the DC reunion!
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