1987 Joe's postcard to John –Aug.8

Caption: SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO.  The warm skies of an evening sun create an interesting atmosphere over New Mexico's capital city of Santa Fe. Photo by Richard Stockton 

Santa Fe, N.M. 8-8-87

Hi John,

Hope you had a great study and fun time at Northwestern – I love Santa Fe.  You will enjoy visiting me here!  I found a 2 bedroom apt. North of Santa Fe for $500.00 a month.  It has a view toward the Sangre de Christo Mts.  (The blood of Christ Mts.)  You see, I'm turning religious!  Talked to Roberta today.  She said Carol had put everything in the newspaper – Hope all is well with you in this regard.  Is Piper still slurping up that water?  Still think about you and [???]  a trip to Pittsburgh.  Will call after the 14th – With love from your cousin Joe.

1987 Bernard letter to Roberta -Aug.3

Aug. 3, 1987

Dear Roberta,

Hope you made your "bike" trip without too many problems.  Be anxious to talk to your Dad and hear all the particulars! – Someone said there was a little of it on the evening news – but we didn't see it – sorry, we might have "spotted" you or your Dad.

Enclosing the photos taken we stopped at your home –  we certainly appreciated the time you spent with us showing us around your work and the area  – taking us to see Catherine too was an extra treat.

So sorry we didn't get to see you when you were in New Vienna – keep trying the next time –

Tell Sid hello!  – did he make all his traveling connections too?  The summer is going fast – it's fair time in Clinton Co. and school starts Aug. 24th – hope the weather is cooler by then.

We will be going on our third trip Aug. 10th into Nova Scotia seeing that part of the country.

Keep in touch –

Love,

Martha Ann & Donald Bernard

1987 Roberta's Colorado postcard to GHU -July 29

Hi Grandma ––

We are now in Denver – went through the state capital building here & in Cheyenne, Wyoming – that is a very Western city!

Love, Roberta & Uibles [&Wendy]

1987 MV's Letter to GHU -Aug.2

[Phoenix, Arizona]
8-2-87

Dear Grandma,

It is so hot here – around 105º in the shade – needless to say you don't stand around outside very long!

We arrived here Thursday night in time for dinner, but Sid wasn't here so we had to fend for ourselves!  Wendy was terribly anxious to see her mother – she clings to Catherine as if there is no tomorrow.  It drives me crazy. [In Wendy's defense I will add that she had been in Ohio since June, where life was not quite the same as the Morgan household.] 

Joe arrived with a friend yesterday just fine.  His friend seemed very nice.  We all had dinner together at Roberta's last night and then they headed for Santa Fe about 1:00 today.

Hope all is calm in New Vienna.  See you in a couple weeks.

Love,

Mary Va.

1967 Catherine Letter - Aug.2

August 2, 1967

Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  Received your letter today and I am glad to hear you are all among the living.

I have been working at the ad building from 8:30-2:30 this week and the Patio from 3:00-11:00.  The youth are putting on a musical on August 11 and they practice from 9:30 P.M. – to about midnight so Jenna and I go over there after work.  Jenna has one of the main parts.

The other night I was rushing madly around trying to wait on all of my customers when this familiar looking man came in the Patio.  I finally summoned up all of my courage and asked him if he was Rev. Steele.  He was and I have seen him several times since.  He said to say hello to all of you.  He is here with the Lima district institute which has 450 kids.

Now to answer all your questions before my noon hour is over and I go back to work.

I don't know what I've told you about Reuben.  He is from Paraguay but he hasn't been home for 5 years.  He will probably go back this fall.  He is a nice boy but I don't like him all that much.  He seems a lot younger or something – maybe just different.

I guess Steve is out of the picture because I haven't seen him for 3 weeks.

I've heard nothing from Dave since June sometime so I have no idea what he is doing this summer.

Bill graduated and will be a freshman at the University of Mich.  Al still has one more year of high school.

The Nobles are planning to buy a house here in Lakeside.  I haven't seen it but it is on Lynn Street between 2nd and 3rd.

Today is supposed to be my day off but Jenna and I switched because one of her friends in Toledo is having a splash party.  I will have tomorrow off instead.

Jenna's birthday is next Wednesday so Bill and Al may come up for that.  Al is in Canada now and later next week he goes to Dallas for some kind of Lutheran convention or something.

I hope Marianne can come up.  If she can get to Toledo I think I can get her on into Lakeside although I haven't checked yet.

Yesterday I splurged and bought soap for the washing machine.  I got Fab –– mainly because it was the cheapest.

Five weeks from today I should be home so please plan to have a big banquet – with real food.

I am enclosing my latest pay check.  I am also sending you all this checking account card.  It is my correct address but I will only be home a couple of weeks.

It is now almost 1:00 so I better be getting back to work.

Love,

Catherine

1977 Catherine's Letter -Aug.1

Monday morning

August 1, 1977

Dear Mom and Dad,

Hi!  Well, here it is my first day of not working and I must admit it seems a little strange.  DeeDee is here and we have been keeping busy doing the laundry and hanging up some posters in her room.  Later this morning we are going to take the bus to El Cajon and have lunch with Gerry – a picnic lunch probably in the same park we had lunch when you were here.  Afterwards I have an appointment to get my hair trimmed.

Tomorrow morning I have a Dr's appointment so we will take the bus the other direction.  It is fortunate we live so close to a major bus route so it doesn't take too long or too many transfers to get anywhere.

The people at work were really nice.  I think they were sorry to see me leave.  They hired two girls to take my place but neither one seemed to show an over abundance of potential.  They told me that if I want to come back to work all I have to do is give them a call.  I had one week's vacation pay coming and they gave me two weeks so that made for a nice unexpected bonus.  Plus I got some nice gifts: a pair of wall plaques, two jumper suits for the baby (one newborn to 15 pound size, and one 15-20 # size), booties, bibs, safety pins, rattles and a nightgown for myself.

Gerry gave a pint of blood yesterday to the Stork Club which is a special deal sponsored by the S.D. Blood Bank.  In the unlikely event that mother or baby needs blood it covers all costs.

I forgot to mention I also got two baseball tickets from work (the Co. has mini-season tickets) but I think we're going to exchange them for another game.  The tickets they gave me are for a Friday night game, September 16, which just happens to be the very same day that the baby is due. I realize that the baby probably won't be born that day but I would hate to waste the tickets.

Speaking of the baby being born, we are hoping Mother, that you will be able to come out.  Of course both of you are invited.  The more we think about it the more we want you to come.  I'm sure I will need some help when I get home from the hospital – I plan to stay in the hospital the least amount of time possible.  The Dr. says the minimum is 24 hours and the average is 2-3 days.  So please plan on coming.

John called from Washington the day after I received your post card so I gave him your address in Chicago.  He sounds like he is doing fine.  He said Roberta is really busy (which perhaps explains we we haven't heard from her since she arrived at H.G.) and that Mary Virginia is having a hard time balancing her budget on $10/week.  I'm sure she could take lessons from J.B.

Well, I better go fix some sandwiches for our lunch.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Love, 

Catherine & Gerry

1967 Catherine's Letter -July 29

July 29, 1967
Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, Serena, John, Mar,y

Hi!  Aren't you surprised to hear from me so soon?  Guess who is 18 1/2 today!  I just celebrated by eating a box of raisins and 2 ry-krisp crackers.

We really had an exciting day at Cedar Point.  Al and Bill got here about 1:30 so I had to find something for us to do until Jenna was ready at 3:30.  We ended up walking to Brown's Marina and then playing miniature golf.  It started raining as soon as we got there but it abated after about 15 minutes and the sun shone again.  We went on about every ride (some several times) and I think we got our money's worth.  For supper we ate at the Steak House at the Cedar Point Marina.  The food was really good – steak, baked potato, roll salad.  Umm!  Makes me hungry just to think about it.

I think Jenna's feelings toward Bill are about the same as Elaine's.  However, he has already called to see if it was all right if they come up on her birthday, August 9.

Thursday night I went to see "The Slender Thread: with Jenna at Orchestra Hall.  Sydney Poitier (sp?) was in it.  Last night I went with Reuben to see "Birds do It" starring Soupy Sales.  It was ridiculous.

I am glad to hear Roberta is doing so well with her driving.  When does Driver's Ed end?

How are the ballgames coming John?  I just heard on the radio where Vada Pinson hit a home run in the 10th inning to win the ballgame over Chicago.

My favorite pen just ran out of ink and that green one didn't work much better.

How was camp, Serena?  Did Rev. Beers bug you too much?

Mother you should see me make chili!  Ha!  It only takes 5# hamburger, one can of tomato puree, two cans kidney beans, one can water, handful of onions and some chili powder.

This morning Hugh threw out about a gallon of vegetable soup which we just made yesterday.  He said he didn't like warmed over soup.

The food that is thrown out or wasted would be enough to feed our whole family!

The letter from Kalamazoo included a medical form which has to be in by September 15.  Do you think I could have Dr. Fullerton fill it out after I get home?

It also had a form which wanted to know your denomination, name of preacher, etc.  I have already sent it in.

I also got a box of mint taffy at Cedar Point.  I hope it keeps because I haven't eaten much of it.

I got a letter from Grandma yesterday.    It makes me sick to think of you all eating apple sauce, green beans, real tomatoes, broccoli and food!

It is now almost 7:00 P.M. and Jenna and I will soon be able to go to supper.  I can hardly wait for another of those delicious sandwiches or a peach and cottage cheese salad.

Thanks for the clipping.

Love, 

Catherine

1947 HH Chauffeur's License

1967 Sabina (Camp) Sense and Nonsense -July 27

July 27 Serena & Lisa Gooding Contribute to the newsletter.

1977 MV's Letter - July 24

July 24, 1977

Dear Mom and Dad,

Hi!  Somehow I get the feeling I might be turning Catholic – I've attended 2 masses, but haven't taken communion – yet.  Don't worry too much I haven't been a member of the Methodist church a year yet.

Went into the city last Tuesday night, then spent the day Wednesday.  Went in on the 4:00 bus, so had supper at Browies (Eileen went).  Then spent the night at Bressi Thomsons place.  We also went to the World Trade Center and saw New York at night.  It looked like a lighted Christmas Tree.  Then Wednesday morning walked up nineth (sp?) Ave. to Lincoln Center from Bresci's Apt. on 8th and 24th St.  I don't know it was 40 blocks up there!  By the time we got thru the tour it was 11:30, so took the subway down to Time Square to see about 2 for tickets for Broadway shows.  Well. the line was about a block long, and we couldn't be waiting around so went in the N.Y.P.D.  (New York Police Department) tourist thing and they had half price things, but not for "The Wiz" or "A Chorus Line" so we got tickets for Chicago.  (They were free) and then ate lunch at "Mama Leonies", an Italian Place.  Well, while we were in there Eileen was looking at the tickets, and it said you had to be their at least a half an hour before the show started!  Right then it was 1:15 and the show started at 2:00 and we hadn't been served so we had to pay full price ($12.50! each).  It was pretty good, but it was the type of show that Grandma wouldn't sit through the first scene.  Then we decided we would go to ticketron at Grand Central, but I thought it was on 36th Street, so we walked down there.  Well, when I got out the map to see which way to go, I found out it was on 42nd Street!  So we walked down there.  Then we remembered they closed at 5:00 and so we took the subway back to Lexington and 24th.  Well instead of going up to 8th Ave wouldn't you know we walked down to 3rd.  We were so tired we took the bus back to 8th Ave.  I've never been so tired in my whole life.  And then to top things off we almost didn't get seats on the bus.  I had to sit beside this big fat guy who took up about 1/2 of my seat, along with all of his.  We finally got back to the farm okay.  You know the first week I went to see the New York Experience and second week I got it!

Yesterday we had a carnival and I got my face painted!  It got sort of itchy so I had to wash it off after supper.  Eileen got hers, too.  She looked sort of funny because she had on a sun dress, Sally's wig, and then her face was painted and Katy Ream looked like she was ready to fire her!  But we did get some pictures taken.

Well, can't use my whole notebook.

Love, 

Mary Va.

1967 Catherine's Letter -July 26

July 26, 1967
Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  At last it is my day off and I have some time to write a letter.

They are making alot of changes at the Patio.  Six girls have either quit or been laid off.  I will be working the grill on Jenna's day off and on all the other days I will double as salad girl and waitress.

Monday night I really went overboard and saw two movies.  First I saw "Gambit" at Orchestra [Accestra?] Hall.  It was really funny.  As soon as it was over I rushed right up to Hoover and got there just as "The Agony and the Ecstasy" was beginning.  It was magnificent – now I think I would like to read the book.

It makes me tired to think of all I did yesterday – even though I don't really feel too exhausted.  After getting up at 5:15 A.M. and working until 3:00 I decided to go out on the dock and help the lady from the institute fish.  After about an hour and she hadn't caught any fish I decided I must be scaring them away or something.  I then walked over to the old crusher at the quarry in Marblehead.  It is really spooky – even in the daylight.  All the old deserted buildings and the gigantic rusty machinery.  When we work the late shift we walk over in there after work but I had never been there in the daylight before.

By the time I got back it was past seven so Jenna and I went to eat at that exclusive restaurant with the umbrellas.

Jenna, Donna, one of Donna's friends from Port Clinton, and I all went to the concert at Hoover featuring the Lakeside Symphony Orchestra.  It was over about 9:15 and I then went to a dance down at the Pavilion with Reuben.  I don't know if I told you all about him or not.  He is one of the dishwashers at the hotel.

The other day I really splurged!  I went to the grocery store and bought a quart of buttermilk (yummy! was it ever good) a box of powdered milk, and some Ry-krisp crackers.  The whole quart of buttermilk only cost 29¢ where as one little dinky carton at the Patio costs 20¢.

I just got back from the Patio where I ate breakfast or maybe I should say brunch since it is 10:45.  I usually have raisin bran and orange juice for breakfast but this morning I went way out and had french toast and bacon.  Boy, was it ever good!  [Obviously I wasn't a vegetarian then!]

Starting tomorrow they are changing the hours at the Patio.  Instead of opening at 7:00 we will be opening at 7:30 which means the employees will come in at 7:00 instead of 6:00.  That extra hour of sleep will be welcome.

I got all my clothes washed this morning.  By throwing every thing in together I usually have a load every four or five days.

This afternoon Al and Bill are coming up.  Jenna will be Bill's date and we are all going to funtastic Cedar Point.  The weather is (and has been) beautiful so it should really be a fun day.

Have you heard any more from the Hortons?  I wrote to Marianne but I haven't heard anything back yet.

I finished reading Light in August by Faulkner but I had to renew The Making of the President 1964.  it is a good book but the reading sure is slow.

Charley asked me if I was from West Virginia.  He used to live in Glenville (or someplace like that) and he says I talk just like the people there do.

The mail just came and I got a letter from Alice and one from Patty.  Alice seems to have had a really good time on her trip.

Well, I better close before you all think I am writing a book or something.

Love, 

Catherine

1977 Roberta's postcard -July?

Mailed to New Vienna, forwarded to the John Hancock building in Chicago.

1977 Penny (9¢) Postcard

[1977 but undated]
Hi!  Sunday was my day off – so I took advantage of it & went into NYC – 1st it took me 4 1/2 hours to get in – ran out of gas – some guy stopped & I gave him $2.00 to go & get gas & the crazy guy never came back – but after an hour I started flagging down again –

Then Monday AM I find my car ªBuick) broken into by means of throwing a big rock through the left side (back seat) window – glass everywhere – I had put a brown bag of gifts in the back seat which someone found too tempting.  Just don't think I'll be going back into the city this week –

But window we fount at a junk yard & now installed – plus new tires (2).

Today the yellow van is acting up – had to be pushed twice.  I'm ready to go back to a bike.  Mary Va is enjoying herself alot – NO TROUBLE – alot of help to all of us –

Lovel
Berta

1977 Catherine's Letter -July 25

July 25, 1977

Dear Mom and Dad,

Hi!  Thanks for your letter which arrived in two days.  Sounds like you had a good time.  Thanks for Serena's address.  Did she get all those letters we forwarded to the other address?

What is a Carter outlet?  I thought maybe it was a place that sold Jimmie Carter souvenirs but I gather maybe they have baby stuff.

The Dr. says everything is fine.  I have gained 11 pounds.  I have to go again next week.  At least I won't have to miss work since this is the last week I will be working.

We also started the childbirth classes last week.  17 couples at the first class.  We'll see yow many make it through til Sept. 6 which is the last class.  It is the LeMaze method that they teach.  Last week we just had a general overview and learned some warm up exercises.

I have also made an appointment to get my hair trimmed next week.  It's been over a year since I last had it trimmed so it needs it pretty badly.

We've made reservations to stay at the Holiday Inn in Buena Park for 3 nights during Gerry's vacation.  We tried Motel 6 and several other budget type places but all were booked up.  At least HI doesn't charge extra for the kids.  We plan to take DeeDee & Robbie [Gerry's nephew who suffered severe brain damage in an auto accident about 15 years ago] to Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, possibly Universal Studios and other major attractions of the area.  DeeDee will be staying with us as of the 1st.  Robbie arrives on the 4th and we plan to be in L.A. on the 10-12th.

Tell Roberta she owes us a letter!

We have heard from John & M.V. at Hudson Guild

Love, 

Catherine & Gerry

1977 Roberta's postcard -July 18

1977 Penny (9¢) Postcard

7/18/77

Hi – All is well – we're having record hot days – and what bad days to be in N.Y.C.  but just drove in & back Friday & Saturday.

Carol enjoyed her weekend – Annie's Apt. was broken in & cleaned out while she was here the 1st 2 weeks.  (BRONX)

Mary Va is getting along fine – everyone asks if she is Marion's daughter.

Big group of seniors come in Friday – including the man who turns T.V. off at commercial time.  Lots of them were here last year when G'ma was here & they all ask & sorry they missed you!

J.B.'s business is good – yesterday John, Billy & I went canoeing at Bear Pond – Mr. Reem loaned us canoe & truck to take up ––

Lots of fun –

Love, Bert

1987 John's Letter to Roberta -Apr.28

April 28, 1987

Dear Roberta,

Thanks for your letter and the pictures.  I can't believe I have been home for two weeks from Florida.  I wanted to write and tell you what a good time I had with you and Grandma.  It was enjoyable seeing Rob & Cindy as well as the Lippmanns.

Carol and I have been talking about possibly coming out to Arizona in November.  It is hard to get away right now for a week since we have a mayor to re-elect this year. But how would November sound for you?  Of course we want to see Cathy, Gerry & Wendy also.

Thanks again for the nice visit in Florida.  We hope to see both you & Sid in Ohio this summer.

Love, 

John

P.S.  Any more thoughts about a gift for either Grandma's birthday or Mom & Dad's anniversary?

1967 Catherine's Letter -July 24

July 24, 1967

Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  Got your letter today.  I thought you were going to Columbus on Sat. so you probably didn't get my card in time.

You can leave the $150 in the checking account – I can always use it this fall.  I am sending my latest check home.  I have been being a waitress during the evening rushes so I have plenty of spending money at the moment.

Charley, Jenna, and I ate Sun. dinner at Richard's House yesterday.  Had a really good meal –– ground round, green beans, jello-cottage cheese salad, lemonade, and raisin pie all for $1.45.

Sounds like Roberta is coming along all right with Drivers Training.

How long are the Dailey's staying?  Sounds like a lot of fun!

Beth's parents are the managers of the Lakeside hotel.

Sorry this is so short – but time really flies!

Went to church yesterday at the Hoover.  Dr. Dickhaut gave the sermon.

I've been swimming a couple of times – water is really nice.  "The Agony and the Ecstasy" is on at Hoover tonight.  I hope it is good!

The radio station is really full of the Detroit riots – quite serious.

Love, 

Catherine

1987 HH postcard during RAGBRAI -July 21

Main Street Looking South postcard from unknown Iowa town -mailed 1987

Tues. 7/21/87  – These [postcards] are free – you can see why.  Everybody treats us like guests.  One host told us no crook would pedal 72 miles to steal from her house.  It really feels great to take a bath after a "day on the road."  Bkfst is available at 4 AM.  At 7 (in the rain) I had bkfst 35 miles later.  Yes, R&I are still on speaking terms.

Love, R&H

Guttenberg, Iowa postcard - last RAGBRAI stop in 1987

Card was not mailed.  Dots on picture indicate "Touch in" on the Mississippi River and "Our House."  Captioned: Lock & Dam #10 on the Mississippi River at Guttenberg, Iowa.

1967 Catherine's booklist postcard -July 20

1967 Penny (4¢) postcard

[postmarked July 20, 1967]

Hi!  Got a roommate today.  Donna somebody from P.C. [Port Clinton]  She will be going to U. of Mich.  Still plenty of room for Marianne!

These books I would like to have if you can find them in paperback: Mr. Tompkins in Wonderland by Gamow; The Strange Story of the Quantum by Hoffmann (Dover is the publisher or something); The Growth of Mathematics, R.M. Marks, ed. (Bantam); 100 Great Problems of Elementary Mathematics, H. Dorric (Dover); Gravity, Gamow (Anchor Books).

I would like to read Recreation, Leisure, and Politics by Arnold W. Green.

Hope you are all well.

Love, Catherine

1987 HH's postcard during RAGBRAI -July 19

Roberta & Dad do RAGBRAI XV
Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa
From : RAGBRAI history – 1980s
RAGBRAI XV
July 19-25, 1987
RAGBRAI XV in 1987, July 19-25, saw the ride returning to Onawa for the third time as the starting point. The 437-mile long ride stopped overnight in Denison, Storm Lake, Fort Dodge, Forest City, Osage, West Union and ended in Guttenberg. Along the way, riders went through Worth, Howard and Mitchell counties for the first time. There was a loop through Corwith that provided a Century Day. As the riders went through Worth County, more than 200 riders volunteered to search for an 18-month-old child who had strayed into a cornfield. She was found primarily because of their efforts. The week’s weather was warm and humid.

Caption: WELCOME TO IOWA. A sign of friendship from Iowa to our visitors.

7-19-87 [Sunday]
We are getting along fine.  The 1st night in the Kings RV will spoil us.  The campground is unbelievable – tents & bikes everywhere.  Nice story about C.A. [Charles] Lindbergh in the Mapleton Airport.

Bkfst is from 4 A.M. so. Even the P.L. is to be open from 2-5 today.  – R & H

 * * * * *
Mapleton is 21 miles from the starting point in Onawa.  Onawa to Denison (first overnight) was 53 miles.

1967 Catherine's Letter -July 19

July 19, 1967
Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  Got your letter today.  Thanks for sending me the clipping.  If you ever see or hear Darrel's address please send it to me.

The days just seem to fly by with working, my math, reading and all the time I spend just messing around.  Right now I am on the dock absorbing my Vitamin D.

Don't worry about the blouse or the shorts.  If I get desperate enough I will sew them myself.

I take it you put $150 in my savings account.  Or did you leave it in the checking account?  If I remember I will enclose my latest pay check with this letter.  I want it put in the savings account, please!

I am going to write Marianne as soon as I finish this.  There is no reason why she can't come up here as far as I'm concerned.  She is welcome to come and stay with me.  Treva told me we are allowed to have guests.  She had a friend stay with her last week.  The friend took her room and she slept in one of my extra beds.

Too bad you didn't wait awhile longer to get the VW now that they are changing over to automatic.

I went out with Charley, Sunday night.  I can't really say we went "out" because we just messed around then met some other kids who had a car and just drove around the end of the peninsula.  I haven't seen much of Steve lately.

What is Wilma doing at Niagara Falls?

Beth Baggs, aged 12-1/2 has adopted me as her sister.  My name is now Cathy Baggs, 311 Bellefountaine Ave., Marion, Ohio and I have been at camp all my life.

This morning I bought some wetting solution for my contacts.  One little pink bottle cost $1.75.

The school should send out a little booklet with the SAT scores.  I have an old one somewhere in the basement I think

I will have send you a post card with the books I want, for I don't have the list now.

Love,

Catherine

1987 Catherine's Letter to Dad -July 17

Dad and Roberta were in Iowa, ready to begin the famous RAGBRAI bike ride.

Friday

July 17, 1987

Dear Dad,

Can't pass up this opportunity to send you a "postage-free" letter via Roberta.  I understand Wendy held the last letter we sent you "air-mail" until Father's Day!

Good luck on your ride.  We'll be interested in hearing all about it in person.  Are you taking the movie camera so you can film Roberta in action?

I have been trying to figure out a Word Processing program on a Macintosh Computer the last few weeks days – interesting but frustrating.  I keep figuring out things it would have been helpful to know before I started!  I went through an orientation tape & disc but I seem to be learning more by trial and error.

Sunday afternoon is our first chance to show off the new library – open to library employees (which now number around 110 including part time) & their families.  Then Tuesday night is a special preview for city employees (about 1200) & their families.  Then the Grand Opening and "business as usual" combined on Monday, 27th at 7:00 pm.  After that regular hours will be 9-9 Mon-Thurs, 9-5 Fri & Sat and 1-5 on Sun. year round.

Hope you have survived having Wendy in Ohio this summer.  I'm sure it's been good for her to get a taste of life in Ohio!

We're going to Roberta's now – so must close.  See you soon!

Love,

Catherine & Gerry

1977 MV's Letter -July 16

Saturday, July 16, 1977

Dear Mom and Dad,

Hi!  Don't get any ideas, because I'm not homesick.  I just thought I'd tell you I went swimming today!  Well, John (Sally's son) asked me to go swimming at the Cruiser Club.  Well, I got Marions okay, and we took off.  And I've never seen a pool like it.  At both ends its 3 ft then it slopes (sp?) down to 10 ft in the middle.  And they have diving platforms that go up to 32 feet high!  They also have tennis courts but didn't play.  Sorry, Dad!

Yesterday and today have really been hot.  Marion went to bed yesterday and has been in bed most of the day today + she doesn't want to eat, so . . . . . .  Everybody else is fine.

Last night John and Eileen went to see "Fun with Dick & Jane."  Don'r worry – it's rated PG.

Well have to go.  Plan on going to church tonight.

Love, Mary Va

1967 John's Supply Store -July 15

1967 Serena & Jean L. at Camp Whip-Poor-Will -July 8

1967 Catherine's Letter -July 6

July 8, 1967

Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  Received your letter and Serena's post card today.

Sounds like John's baseball team did a pretty good job clobbering Sabina.  I bet that went over real big with the Sabina fans.

I've heard from several people about Roberta's driving.

I did tell Alice I would get her composite but I guess she can get it herself when she gets home.  Did you ever find out about my SAT achievement scores?

I don't know how the News-Journal salaries stand.  Maybe the canceled checks from the bank could tell you more than I know.

Aunt Mary gave me a pair of yellow pajamas.  – very pretty.

My day off is Wednesday – but I usually work at the administration building if they need me.

Al was going to come up this Wednesday so we could go to Cedar Point but I wrote him that I had to work (?).  Should I tell him to send the thermos to you?

Last night we didn't get off work until extra late because of the crowd after "Showboat."  I guess we will go through the same things again tonight.

I got a nice letter from Mrs. Smith today.

Love,
Catherine

1987 Roberta's Letter -July 7

7/7/87

Dear Family,

I had started out with the typewriter – but with little success!  After the basic keyboard – I'm lost!

Sid got off on schedule yesterday – about 15 minutes later than he had hoped – not bad for a 4 month trip!  He had really worked to get all in order – between the trailer – the house – Sr. Village – car, etc.  This AM Cynthia called from London Airport – their flight had been cancelled – to Denver – so they were to be put on another plane getting into Denver 2 hours later.  (Originally to arrive at 8 PM, now 10 PM tonight).  Actually that is good news as Sid didn't think he would get to Denver by 8PM tonight!  And he had said he would probably be hour or 2 late!

Last night were visiting Funeral Home hour for Joe Wolfney [?] who had been very active at East Mesa Senior Center – along with his wife.  I'm sure you all have met them – they always asked about Grandma especially.  Both were born in Eaton, Ohio.  They were at our wedding.

It worked out for me to go over & see some East Mesa Senior Center people & got in a visit with the Stubbs.  Also stopped in at the Funeral Home.  As it turns out – I always ran out of time – lots of people over there I would like to visit.  In August I might go over & spend a weekend w/ Stubbs & do some visiting.

Interesting enough I called Lois Bruce on Sunday – and found she had just mailed  letter to us!  She sounded real good & has been enjoying the swimming pool most mornings!  Has had an "eye tuck" – so that she doesn't have to hold her eye lid up when she reads, etc.!

Lately it seems my letters keep getting crossed in the mail with others when I do write!

We enjoyed having MARK (the p.k. from Felixstowe) here.  He hd been in USA since March & had been one term at Carroll College in Wisconsin – then a week or so in Chicago.  When we did Camelback Mountain – 1st morning he was here – I really had a tough time doing it.  Couldn't seem to catch my breath – once we got on top I realized why – we had gotten up in just over 47 minutes!  NOT BAD at all!

The next AM we did Squaw Peak – it was Friday – holiday for most people & trail was quite crowded.  We started out from the house at 5:00 AM on the trail at 5:30 – great time of day in Arizona in July! Wasn't so crowded going up but coming down there were so many people headed up!  Met an attorney who does it 3-7 times per week.  Nice guy – named NISSER.  It's always interesting the people you meet – and see when hiking!  One guy got up on top of Squaw Peak & then did about 50 push-ups!

We enjoyed Tubing down the Salt River – for $6.25 each you can rent a tube & have a shuttle bus take you (& the tube) to drop off points & even pick you up.  It was quite fun & a good American experience for Mark.  We each got a little sun burn – he got it around his feet where he had not put lotion & I got it just around my arm pits!  (& only in the front!)  My sock line is getting more & more um – apparent!  (& it will be more so after RAGRAI!)

The Board of Supervisors (Maricopa County) did approve to contract out Senior Village.  It is out to BID now with bids needing to be in by 7/31/87/  Tomorrow there is a bidders conference meeting where those interested can come & ask questions, etc.  Only non-profit agencies can bid.  The change may take place in October or January.  I'm assured by my boss that the new agency would keep me at present salary/benefits – or better!  Actually I think Steve (my boss) is rather fearful that I might quit – and he sure doesn't want that to happen – at least not while he's responsible.

All i all I think Sr. Village could be run better outside the County system. I think I'd like to stay with the take over.  The other option would be to stay with County –working 8-5 at some salary but without house provided & only 3 weeks vacation a year!  My lifestyle would have to change – drastically!

Much Love –
Roberta

1967 Catherine's Letter -July 6

July 6, 1967

Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, Serena, John and Mary,

Hi!  I got a long letter form Mother today and since I have a few spare minutes I decided it wouldn't kill me to write you all a short letter.

Sounds like you had quite a busy Fourth of July.  I'm sorry I never mentioned receiving Roberta's post card.

Last Saturday a new boy started working in the kitchen with us as the Patio.  He looks about 15 so I about keeled over when he told me had graduated.  We both practically died of shock when we found out we will both be freshman at Kalamazoo College.  He is from Adrian.

Mrs. Ackerman has gone on some sort of trip so all the Nobles are staying at the cottage.

Everything here is really in an uproar getting ready for "Showboat."  Jenna loves to watch the players practice and Steve can't wait until it is over so he can rest.  I won't see it because I will be working both nights.

I found some blankets so I don't get quite as cold now.  The sun is actually out today.  Although it is not supposed to get too warm.

Glad to hear Joh is doing such a good job with the paper route and I hope Serena had a good time at camp.

Love, Catherine

1967 Serena's postcard to Roberta -July 3

[postmarked July 3, 1967 Morrow, Ohio]

Dear Roberta,

Here are the things we usually do in order (8:00) get up, dress & clean up.  8:45 go to dining hall. have flag ceremony.  9:15 eat.  10:00 go swimming.  12:00 goof around.  1:30 eat lunch.  2:30-3:30 rest hour (ha ha!) goof around.  5:30 Change to uniform.  6:30 flag ceremony.   6:45 eat (hooray)  7:45 goof around and have camp fire.  9:30 get ready for bed.  10:00 lights out (supposedly)!

The food here is great.  Mom, you would love this camp like things that are restricted here: eating before the counselor eats (she serves), no napkins on the table, no elbows, you must eat 3 G.S. bites, etc. etc.  (You know it isn't as bad as I thought!)  Changing into the camp uniform is awful.  Oh, we have Beginners A.B. have green caps.

And at long last I have learned how to do the breath [sic] stroke.  My roommates are Lou Ann (Louie), Sue (Sammie), Jean (my best friend)  My counselors are Marilyn, Hazel (my swim teacher), Joyce, and Eileen.  I'm having a great time.  Yesterday we bout had a flood (of water).  So far I haven't seen a moose.  Not yet a hike, have crafts, etc. or lay in bed in any weather.

Sorry I haven't written before but I just haven't had enough time.  Mom, you will really be surprised about my manners when I get home.

Your breath stroke sister,
Serena

1937, 1952, 1938 Uible CJU & GHU Signatures

Not sure of the significance of this document – HH practicing his (future?) law skills?

1967 Catherine's Letter -June 30

June 30, 1967

Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, John, and Mary,

Hi!  Got a post card from Mother today along with a letter from Kalamazoo and a card from the state library.  Of the three books I requested one is in circulation and the other two they don't own.  That's not too good of a batting average.  The librarian here is going to see if she can get some books from the Port Clinton library.

I wrote a letter to Serena the other day.  Isn't this the weekend Roberta goes camping with the Girl Scouts?  John, I forgot to congratulate you on your athletic achievements.

Lasts night Steve and I saw "That Darn Cat" which was shown at Hoover.  It was very good and terribly funny.

The Nobles came today.  I guess Mrs. Noble and Lisa (I think) are going to Columbus to pick up Joy who has spent a week at Capitol Univ. for some kind of music deal.

How are things in the garden?  Everyday I slice up tomatoes by the dozen practically and although they look beautiful they taste fake.

Today at The Patio we had strawberry shortcake for the employees only.  (They never have it for the public!)  Jenna and I fixed 8 quarts of berries.

Right now I am sitting in the rear of Hoover listened to the Richard Johnston Choral Ensemble.  I think I am getting my share of culture here.  Of course, I only come to see the curtain puller but that is beside the point.

It would be nice if you and the Hortons could all come up.  but, gosh, it costs about 1/2 a fortune to even get in the gates.  Of course all entertainment here at Hoover is free except for Showboat and that other deal.  (Madame Butterfly, I think.)

I hope everything is all right at home.

Love, Catherine

P.S.  Right now I'm reading The Brothers Karamazov.  Anyone ever read it?

1995 HH at Wells -July 31