Article courtesy of the Montgomery Village News
By Lisa Ferrante Perrone
The Watkins Mill High School (WMHS) Class of 1991—the first graduating class—held their 30th reunion on October 2 at Lone Oak Brewery in Olney. This was the fourth reunion for the Class of 1991 (previous reunions included the 10th, 20 th and 25th reunions). Members of the planning committee (Shaka Berry, Melinda Buck, Brian Mahone, Tracey Pickerel, Lisa Ferrante Perrone, Mark Rivers, Aklilu Seium, and Jennifer Stolbach) met weekly on Zoom for 5 weeks to prepare for the reunion. Lone Oak Brewery opened 15 months ago and is owned by two Gaithersburg High School graduates.
About 40 classmates attended the festivities, which included a Friday night happy hour at Gentleman Jim’s in Gaithersburg and the Saturday event at Lone Oak Brewery. Many of the attendees have been friends since kindergarten. Classmates spent time at the reunion reliving old memories, looking though old yearbook photos and updating each other on their lives and families today. “To quote John Leonard,” said Jennifer Stolbach, “just like that tremendous tree behind us in the photo, it takes a long time to grow an old friend. We are all so grateful that our roots will always be tangled together.”
“You never forget your high school friends,” said Aklilu Seium. “When we reunite and get to spend time together—the feelings of delight, comfort and elation are so strong. Hearing that laugh or seeing that smile—it’s uplifting and invigorating!”
Melinda Buck commented, “we are proud to be the first graduating class of Watkins Mill High School, and we are committed to setting the standard to keeping our class members connected.”
“As we all said goodbye, we decided that waiting five more years before our next reunion was too long and we plan to see one another at a joint 50th birthday party in summer 2023,” said Tracey Pickerel. If you are a member of the WMHS Class of 1991, be sure to look us up on Facebook and join us the 50th birthday celebration in 2023!
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FREE Shred Day
Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.
Why You Should Come:
Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.
Eco-Friendly: All shredded material will be recycled, supporting our commitment to sustainability.
Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!
Exciting Giveaways & Prizes: Don't miss out on giveaways and be sure to enter our drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 gift cards.
This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!
Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!
For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
