1991 MV's Letter -Sep.10

 9-10-91

Dear Mom & Dad,

Welcome Home!  We hope you had a good trip and took lots of pictures; and that you didn't run into any problems.

We got your itinerary and note last week -- if mail moved faster I would have written sooner and sent this to the USSR.  You have certainly been in our thoughts and prayers.

Don has been busy with school and Ichthus begins their meetings tonight.  He thought about running for Student Body President but decided that would be too much.  He is still thinking about whether he will keep up his position with Ichthus this year.  It is difficult to devote the time necessary (Ichthus) when we live so far away.  Don has been carpooling with the youth director (& wife) here in Somerset.  So, they usually leave about 6:30 or 7:00 AM and return around 5 or 6 PM.  The car-pooling (waiting) gives him time to study at the library at least.

Fall programming here is nearly full swing -- by mid October there will be 12 choirs meeting.  We have gone from 3 to 4 choirs on Wednesday night and added a tone chime choir for 2nd & 3rd grade.  Tone Chimes are similar to handbells but made of aluminum, tubular and the clapper is on the outside.

Don went to the Doctor last week for his physical; Dr. Kelley said that he had had food poisoning because there was still some infection in his system.  [transcription note:  more medical stuff that maybe shouldn't be made public -- at least by me].

Friday morning I woke up with a stiff leg & left hip, unable to even walk on it.  We went to the Doctor & found out I had bursitis.  He gave me a cortisone shot and immediately got better.  By Saturday I was fine.  (I thought only old people got bursitis!)

Catherine called Sunday night while I was at church.  Don said she talked for a good while and Wendy wanted to talk!  (I can't remember the last time Catherine called me)  -- anyway Don gave her my schedule to call back.  I wrote Serena a note, but not having her address, I sent to New Vienna with instructions to please forward.  Talked with John right after you left & they said they were planning to go to Boston & Exeter.

We will be leaving 10/13 to do the revival in Southern Tennessee (McBurg) which is one (of 4) of Betsye Fowler's churches.  And then we'll be home 10/19.

Better go; I'm going to Christian Women's Club & want to get this in the mail.  Again, glad you're home.

Love,

M.V. & Don

P.S. Teri Tegeder is getting married 10/5; we will probably be in New Vienna night of 10/4 if that's okay.

1981 Family Letter -Aug.22

 Saturday --

August 22, 1981

Dearest Family --

Hardly seems possible that it has been almost two years since we all got together for John and Carol's wedding.  We were happy to get to see them last Monday at the State Fair.  It was nice that they took time to come and see Mary Virginia and her group sing.  We were real pleased that MV got 2nd place of the evening and her group also got 2nd place in their category too.  Of course we thought they should have had first but then we are slightly prejudiced.  There were seven soloists and five groups (no choirs) participating so if the NV United Church had had a choir there they could have taken first place.  They are graded on a point system and the top ten are called back to try for the grand prizes next Saturday, Aug. 29th.  So even the 2nd place winners have a chance.  MV was the second youngest one of the soloists so if she should try again will be able to do that much better.  We can't get the radio station that was sponsoring the contest -- it comes from New Albany, Ohio, above (?) Columbus.

Grandma was happy to get her ticket today Roberta and thoughtful of you to include a card to send back to let you know that she received it OK.  She will be leaving before too long.  Glad that you tried especially hard to see that she got her trip to Alaska.  Hope all goes well for both of you.  She hopes that there will be other young people on the trip for company for you, Roberta.

We went out to the Harners today for an open house for Marvin Fawley and his new bride -- seems like a real nice girl and reminds me of Peggy who was also there as well as Stan and his wife and Elaine and her baby and Jenny and John Harner.  They have four children -- the oldest starts to kindergarten this fall and Jenny has a daughter from her first marriage, who will be in 5th grade.  Jenny is going to teach home ec at the Hillsboro Junior High -- she also plays the organ at the Friends Meeting and has been working in the Hillsboro Hopital.  A good manager?

I talked to Aung Virginia this morning on the phone -- it was her birthday and tried to call her back a couple of times but she was out -- had gone to a wedding where Maureen was a maid of honor or bridesmaid.  We are trying to make final arrangements about next weekend when we attend the New Cumberland alumni get-together.

Looking forward to seeing Serena Monday evening -- Dad has some business in Chicago so will come back Wednesday.  She plans to stay with us at 777 Michigan Ave.  They don't have the indoor pool but perhaps we can make use of the outdoor pool there.  Guess the two John Hancock apartments were filled.

It is a busy time for school starts Monday too and I should be here to start library instruction.  Cheryl Mongold had an operation and is not able to teach for a few weeks so there will be a substitute.  The girl who did her practice teaching was planning to take over but she has been offered a full time job so don't know whether she'll be on hand or not.  Can't believe this is the beginning of Mary Virginia's senior year.

Glad the library job is going well, Catherine.  We are looking fwd to seeing all the Morgans in October.  Your Mother has been over to the school library several days this week getting ready for the new year.  Thru the Burke fund we got a new card catalog & paperback rack.

At Wells we are mailing out our new prices for 1982 -- these high freight costs makes it very hard for the small fellow to compete and some of the big ones -- like Wards -- are losing millions.  It makes the world go around.

Best wishes to John and Carol and Virginia -- wish we could have been with you to help celebrate.

Our very best love to all of you.

1981 Family Letter -June 21

Father's Day 

Sunday evening --

June 21, 1981

Dearest Family --

Today marked the first Sunday with the new minister -- Homer Thompson at our church.  He is older and more sedate than Jim Wise.  He had a good sermon which we could follow easily but didn't wear a robe and all the accouterments which I won't miss too much.  His wife Roma as Dad says reminds us of Helen Kuntzman -- friendly and outgoing though a bit younger.  The only similarity that I have seen between Rev. T. and Rev. K is the lengthy prayer.  They came for lunch today -- had thought we might have more of their family but the others didn't come.  They have a son and married daughter in Columbus and her mother lives with them most of the time but during the period of their moving is visiting another sister.

The Wises are moving most of their heavy things on Tuesday (June 23) and the Thompsons the following Monday so they won't coincide too much.  The Wises have taken 2 U-Hauls and a Wells big truck full up to her mothers so they won't have too many things except the heavy furniture.  The conference recommends that they move as much as they can themselves, especially books, etc. to cut down on the moving expenses.

Going backwards we had a nice trip up to Ada to pick up Mary Virginia and get to hear the concert of the Ohio Northern Band Camp.  She was chosen to sing with the Madrigals (about 25 select singers) and played in the concert band.  Besides practicing for these groups and a regular chorus, she took music appreciation and she and Bill Kincaid were given a special class all by themselves -- Vocal Techniques.  The leader of the chorus did this in one of his free periods which was real nice of him.

Dad appreciated all the letters and cards which he received from you all -- and I especially liked the telephone calls Friday.  The long ones from Roberta and Catherine and the TWO from Serena PLUS a third letter within a month.  In talking to John this afternoon guess she was able to call all of you but missed reaching Roberta for some reason.  Wish the WATTS LINE was in effect all the time but she was able to take advantage of it while it was available.  We were happy to hear that she is now a full-time permanent employee at Smith Bucklin and her official title is administrative secretary.  She works on accounts primarily Health Care Industry Foundation's promotions.  One of the people she works with lives just 3 short blocks from her and she is going to be feeding her cats and watering her plants while she is on vacation this week.  (Hopes that nothing dies while she is gone.)

John and Carol had two foster children last week -- 2½ and 7 months so know that she (Carol) had her hands full with Brooke there too.  We are planning to go up a week from Tuesday to visit (while Wells is on vacation) as there seems to be something every weekend that the girls have to be here.

Roberta is finalizing plans for the trip to Alaska with Grandma.  They leave Phoenix the 5th of September, are gone on a cruise for a week and then visit Catherine, Gerry and Wendy for a few days and back to Phoenix to go to Payson for the weekend and then Grandma gets home something like Sept. 19.  Sounds like a real nice trip -- wish that all of us could go along.

They honored the fathers in Sunday School this morning -- oldest, one with the most children at home (Bob Sears and Bob Carey tied so went to the eldest -- bottle of Anacin) and one with the biggest hole in his socks.  Frank Young is the only one who would admit he had one so got a new pair of socks.

Dad has picked quite a few pints of raspberries this past week and they are still coming strong.  Can't believe July is coming so soon and all the corn isn't planted in the area yet.  It has been a poor summer for gardens.  Our strawberries are gone but Catherine says theirs are just coming on with Wendy picking them as soon as they show pink -- she is getting to be quite a talker on the phone.

Yesterday the County had an auction to clean out the store room in the Court House -- old office equipment and things from the Sheriff's Dept. -- ranged from bikes (remember the auction we went to in Chicago, Serena?) to a bag of some 600 pennies, which brought $22.00  We are going to have a party tomorrow night for Grandma for her 89th birthday.  She has been busy "pitting" cherries . . . .

[Love, etc.]

1981 MV's letter -June 15

6-15-81

6:15 a.m.

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mie Young --

Things have been going well.  We were busy from the time we got here (2:30) until almost 11:00.  I made Madrigal Singers, which, around here is the elite group of singers.  So far, I think I'm the best Alto.  We also had auditions for which band we're to be in.  Since Bill and I are in Madrigals, they said it would be best for us to be in Symphonic.  So we asked for it at Auditions.  Bill probably would have made Honors Band otherwise.  I got 2nd Chair Baritone.  There are 3 bands -- Honors (the highest), Symphonic, and Concert Band which is made up of mostly Jr. High.

My roommate is Gladys Ahrens from Hicksville (between Defiance and Toledo -- or something).  She plays trumpet in Honors Band, and is Soloist (trumpet) in Jazz Band.  They moved from New Jersey and raise horses --

My clock is even more goofed up -- it now turns up at 20 minutes after the hour -- As a result, my roommate and I got up an hour early.

My poison ivy is better where it was really thick.  But I've gotten it on my hands.  If it isn't better by tomorrow, I plan to go see the nurse.

Our band practices two hours a day, one hour of sectionals, Madrigals one hour, Camp Chorus one hour and I'll be taking conducting and vocal techniques.  I still have one hour free before lunch.

See you people on Friday.

Love --

Mary Va.

1991 MV letter -Apr.16

 

4-16-91

Dear Mom & Dad --

It seems like a LONG time since Easter and we last saw you.  Hope everything is fine in New Vienna.  Things have been busy here.

Don's revival at Ferguson over the weekend went real well.  I only got there for one of the 4 services due to a team meeting and services in Somerset.

For my continuing education I'm going to a conference at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota.  My plane ticket is from Columbus to Minneapolis, July 13-18.  The conference doesn't start until the 15th but by going on Saturday I can get the super saver fare.  I called JB and he's agreed to babysit the car, meeting me at the airport both times.

He is going to Illinois this weekend and hopes to know something more definitely about the wedding date or lack thereof.  He said he was planning to come down here May 18th.  He knows that he can bring Julie if she can come.

I've reserved a 3 bedroom cabin at the Jamestown Resort and Marina.  Their lodge was full, so the only other option was a houseboat -- complete with electric -- for only $395/night.  I told them we'd take the cabin.  Hope you don't mind!

This week is the week that the Bishop is making appointments for the conference.  We heard that Terry Faris (in Wilmore) will be moving, but we have no idea where.  We wish he would come to Somerset, but it's doubtful that Jack will leave after only 2 years.  We'll see.  With the appointive system, you never know.

I wrote a letter to Bob Hodson asking that I be removed from any consideration for Wilmington Emmaus Teams.  Barb Russell called me re: the July Walk to do music.  It's flattering but not cost effective to drive 4½ hours one way for a 3 hour meeting six weeks in a row.  So, I don't think I'll be getting anymore calls soon.  I never have heard anything from Liz McCracken following the October walk.

I'm getting geared up now for the dinner theatre (see newsletter) where 2 of my groups will be performing.  The children are working 3 times harder than the Senior Adults.  Neither group particularly enjoys the discipline but the children respond better to it.

And the latest on the house (did I tell you this?) is that the D.S. called to say the outgoing pastor at Simpon [?] Memorial is buying a place and will be vacating the parsonage approximately May 1.  So, if this house does sell, there would be no problem for us to take the parsonage a few weeks early.  So, we're not too worried at this point.

Last but not least, I wrote Pat Zeller a note about 3 weeks ago and got it returned last week -- USPS had delivered it to another Pat Zeller in Jamestown, Indiana instead of Ohio.  Sure builds confidence in the Post Office.

Love,
Mary Va. & Don

1948 Calvin Smith Letter -Mar.7

 

Bexley, Ohio
Sunday, 7 March 1948

Dear Groom-to-be,

I was exceedingly sorry to have missed you & the little missus [?] the Sunday you stopped by it happened to be that first Sunday this year I stayed around the Student Union all afternoon talking with friends, etc. and I was thoroughly disgusted with myself for not having come home as I should have.

I suppose that your legal thoughts are those that least occupy your mind nowadays; I imagine that the harmony of wedding bells and love music is the only thing you'll listen to.  Well that's fine, of course, I hate to see our old Triumvirate yield to the appeal of the fair sex this way -- but that's the way life goes.  People just will die & get married!  It was quite a surprise to me that your wedding will be on April 3rd (?) -- especially since I started taking organ sessions in February, being fully assured by Wm. Glenn, my teacher, that I could learn enough in one semester to enable me to play for a wedding in June.  No matter, though; I'm really relieved that I shan't have to play the organ.  I should have taken organ, anyway, sooner or later, and I'm fortunate something happened to force me to start immediately.

It will be fine to meet you in Steubenville, if you'll let me know when you'll be there; I have just one class on Friday afternoon and will gladly skip it for such an important occasion.  You might ask Jean if there's any particular number she'd like to have me play; and if at all possible I'll try to look it up.

How's everything going?  I suppose you're in one grand whirl trying to get everything managed, etc.  Have you found a suitable place to stay in Cleveland?  I presume Jean will continue with her work in the library.  How is school coming along?  Just fine, I hope & trust.  The library work must help you & a car is giving you study time and extra general knowledge about the legal field.

Things seem to be going o.k. for me so far this semester, at least nobody's said anything about throwing  me out yet.  Work is piling up thicker & thicker as the days go by and about Easter time I'll be in up over my ears!  Two English research papers to write (neither of which I've started as yet) among other things.  I've also contracted a new job -- that of geology lab assistant.  The pay is $15 a month -- it's about 7 hours a week more or less.  The duties of this position are, to phrase it briefly, just being general flunky for Mr. Bond, the geology prof.  There are topographic maps to be kept straight, mineral identifications to check, the bulletin board to keep up-to-date, etc.  Then too, I'm to play nursemaid to the little fossils, seeing that no harm comes to them and all that sort of thing.  My schedule of 19 hours for the semester I find increasingly hard to bear and shall possibly have to cut it down to 18 next fall.  Still planning to go to summer school the first six weeks, same as last summer.

I haven't been home much since the interim between semesters; I did go home last weekend, however, because [indecipherable: looks like ???ther] was sort of "homesick", I think for home coming the last crucial games of the tournament, but couldn't go because there were no more seats available -- all sold out long since.  So I had to hear the great report second-hand -- that N.V. -- dear old N.V. is the Clinton County champ. of 1948, for the first time since '27, someone said.  Everybody is pretty much elated about the fact,  I guess.

Well, it appears that it's about time for my Sunday evening repast, so I'll close more with the hope that I hear from you soon & find out any of Jean's or your - preferences for music at your wedding.  Hope things are just peachy, remember to enjoy this as much as possible -- it's one thing in your life that'll never happen again!  Congratulations, old boy.  I'll be seeing you.

Sincerely,     Calvin

1981 Family Letter -Feb.22

Sunday,  February 22, 1981

Dear Family:

Our Sunday School has been having profiles on various members each month and this morning we were surprised that Mary Virginia was the "profile" today.  It turned out that Ruth Shoemaker was the source of most of the information, including the fact that one of her sisters had written the Girl Scouts as to why there was not a group in NV.  That's the way to get action, isn't it Serena?

Yesterday was the Lions Club pancake day, we had lunch out there and they were good but very filling.  Mary Virginia had gone to Miami University to a music competition -- she sang as well as played the piano.  Just shortly before she went she found out that the Chopin music Mrs. Armentrout had given her to work on was no longer acceptable (on the list of music they could use) so they did think she did a very good rendition they could not give her any rating on it.  She did get a ONE on her voice solo and only good comments on it so that was really encouraging.  The judge said "We can tell the singer many things but the first requirement is a beautiful voice and this you have.  + you understand how to sing expressively with it.  Beautiful tone, flexible, warm, rich.  In tune.  Artistic interpretation.  It's a shame I had to judge.  Just wanted to enjoy.  Well prepared.  Well taught.  Shows what can happen when a good student and a fine teacher happen to get together."  The judge of her piano solo said "Nice job . . . You have real 'gusto' & I enjoy your playing very much.  Keep up the good work.  Next time around play something that will show off your talents more!"  She played Chopin's Polonaise Militaire and sang "He's Gone Away" by Davis.  Several went from New Vienna.  Eileen Cline also went too.

We have made up for last week of not so much square dancing as we went to the club party Thursday night, a raid (banner) at Medway Lions Club Friday night with the Harners and then to Harveysburg on Saturday night.  It was a combination of the old-fashioned hoe-down and our club was asked to come to demonstrate western square dancing.  Dad had an interesting chat with a man there, who turned out to be the father of Fred Wall, who is the President of Robbins & Myers, of Dayton Ohio and in which we have stock.  Fred graduated from Harverysburg H.S., got an accounting degree from Miami and did work for an accounting firm at R&M, who later hired him and his Dad told me, "the right people passed away" and he had the top job.  The evening ended up with the police stopping me for making a U-turn in Harverysburg (population, say 500), but that had a good ending.

Just returned from Salisbury's house where they are having an open house for Esther's aunt who is 91.  Difficult for us to keep the people straight with the large family with several generations present.  The Salisbury's are proud of their wood/gas combination furnace.  It will handle the logs up to five feet in length.  

It is even later now and we had dinner with the Hauses this evening and then played tri-ominoes -- five us playing and Doc or Charlotte took turns keeping score.  Still got home early so that the girls could study yet this evening.

Happened to look on the back of a jack letter we received and saw the note "'spect you know my Aunt Fanny Moore" which came as a surprise to us for we could have easily missed it.  Called her Aunt Fanny and she was surprised too -- couldn't believe that we sold jacks as far away as North Carolina, and I boggled her mind even further by saying they went all over the world.  Had a request also from the Netherlands . . . .

[Love, etc.]

1990 MV introduces herself to Somerset UMC -Nov.5

 

1980 MV's Amazing Grace -July 26

1990 MV's letter -July 24

7/24/90

Dear Mom & Dad --

Have been writing the family & thought of a couple things I didn't tell you on the phone, so wanted to send off a quick note.

I will be singing at Wilmore United Methodist on Sunday, Aug. 5th for the main service if you'd like to combine that with a visit that weekend.  If you're available we could make reservations for you at Beeson Manor, Shakertown, Red Roof (or you could share our twin bed in the spare bedroom)!

The other thing is that we ordered the reprints of wedding pictures today -- I couldn't remember exactly what you wanted beside the one of the family and the one cutting the cake, so I picked out 3 others I thought you'd like.  They are supposed to be in app. 2 weeks.  The check you gave me I wrote for pictures for you & us plus for the wedding I am in at Thanksgiving for the dress and shoes for bridesmaid.  I hope this was okay.

Hadn't really communicated with Roberta or Catherine since ? (the wedding?) so I wrote them a letter (individually).  J.B. said Roberta had told him we weren't taking the job in Georgia . . . so I wanted to squelch rumors.  We don't know what we'll be doing until we get any offers.  If Georgia is the only thing offered, we may go.  It's hard to tell what will happen in the next 2-3 months.

No more word on Don's grandmother, so we're assuming she's okay.  No news is good news.  Geneva (Don's mom) was going to drive back to Lubbock for a couple days to rest & check her mail.  Out of the 9-10 living children in the family (and tons of grandchildren) 2-3 are doing all the care for her.  (I can't imagine -- his Grandmother (deceased) Crowson had 14 children & Grandmother Self had 12!!)

If you have not sold the van by the time we go to Canada (8/8) we'd like to borrow it since it is  more comfortable and has air conditioning.  If you sell it, don't worry about it.  Don't hang on to it just so we can take it!  That would not be $ smart.  Off to put this in the mail.

Love, 

MV & Don 

1980 Family Letter -July 24

7-24-70

Dearest Catherine, Gerry, Wendy and Dee Dee,

Realized that we would be late getting a letter off to you especially when we would see the others soon or have just seen them.  Roberta and Marion have been here since Friday and plan to leave tomorrow morning - wish that they could stay longer but R. has to be back in Mesa next Tuesday in order to be at work Wed. morning.  She had promised to be back before the end of the month to finish up the monthly reports.  If she weren't driving back she wouldn't have to leave so soon but is taking the car back that Marion drove to Illinois in June but her back bothers her too much to drive it back by herself in August.

Mary Virginia is having her concert (her own idea and working) at the church Saturday night or she might help Roberta with the driving but R can't wait til Sunday to start.  John and Carol are coming down for it and called Serena and found out that she is coming in late Friday night as Debbie Haines is coming home the same weekend.  We had thought that Serena had planned to go to Kansas City as she has a week's vacation next week -- thought something might work out for her to accompany R that far.  Anyway we are glad to hear that she is coming home but really surprised too.

Dad mailed the shirts to you all today so should be getting them soon -- he sent them to the Co-op.  If there are any that you don't want to keep we will pick them up in August.  Roberta was able to find two that had Arizona State on them -- gave one to Vanessa for her birthday.  It was good talking to you Tuesday AM and look forward to your next call.  The rain that day finally broke the heat spell we have had for quite a few days -- seems like it's either extra hot or extra cool but these last few days have been real nice.  The humidity hasn't been so bad.  Heard Meachem Oregon had the coldest spot in the country this morning.

Mary Virginia had a game last night and another tonight and their team won both games -- tonight's was with a team that just got started playing -- only played three innings and it was 41-0.  They ran short of players and Marion and our coach even got in and helped them out.

Ruth got home from the hospital on Sunday and is staying with the Colliers.  Isn't allowed to lift over three pounds nor able to do much.

Roberta talked to Linda Rollins Davenport who played on last night's ball team -- she is the only one in her family to graduate from college and is working at Lebanon Correctional Institute as a social worker.  Has a boy about 8 and a little girl.

The Hortons are back home after the big heat wave in North Carolina while visiting Cris.  Next month they plan to meet Joe in New York along with Marianne and Larry K.

Monday we -- Marion, Roberta and I -- went to Columbus where R visited a couple of nutrition centers and saw John and Carol.  MV had her music lesson so didn't go. 

John and Carol are coming Saturday afternoon after they attend some political meeting at the governor's mansion in Columbus and have to be back in Newark early Sunday morning as they have just taken over the teaching of a young people's Sunday school class and hate to miss the second Sunday.  May stay overnight but will probably go back Saturday evening.

Don't have any idea how many people will come to the concert -- MV had originally wanted to serve refreshments and I suggested just punch but now she doesn't want to have anything.  Tim Larrick is playing for her.  She had originally asked Denise Stewart but her father has been very sick this summer and so she wasn't able to do it so MV has Tim who is very good.

We are due to leave this Thursday and school begins the day we get back so the summer will be over -- it has really gone fast.  Mie Young Kim is coming in about the same time -- hopefully not until the 24th the day MV finishes with the Ohio State Youth Choir.  She has to be at the fairgrounds to begin practicing Aug. 8 and the fair is the 12-24.

I'l leave some space for Dad to add a note --

Not sure how long a note should be -- we are having a bumper apple crop, i.e. apple sauce is one of our staples -- sorry it is not practical to share the apples with you folks.

Grandma is fine -- you would never know she had been in the hospital.  She had plans to come out west this fall, visiting both you folks and Roberta, the schedule depends on when Joe Horton will be here in NV.

Love,

[Mom & Dad]

1979 Family Letter -Oct.28

Sunday evening
October 28, 1979

Dearest Family -- It was nice hearing from all of you either by phone or letter or both  . . . .

Sorry that I got this letter started on the wrong side of the carbon but hopefully all is okay now - at least  I didn't wait until I got to the bottom of the letter before finding it out.  It was good talking or hearing by letter from all of you / or both in some cases.

Sorry that Gerry has to be hospitalized but hope that puts an end to all the misery he has been having with his back and legs and that the surgery will be most successful if that is necessary.  We will be anxious to hear the results of the milogram.  I would love to be out there to help in any small way that I could -- especially with Wendy if nothing else. 

Do worry about you too Roberta and all the bee stings that you have been having so do keep the kit with you at all times.  Are there so many bees around the campus or is there something in your chemistry that readily attracts them?

Just wanted to tell you, Serena that we picked up Dad's coat and my watch at Haines house yesterday which you so thoughtfully sent home with Mrs. Haines.  I didn't talk to her but Mary Virginia did ever so briefly.  I had to take MV over to Denise Stewart's house to practice as she and Tim Larrick were singing in the Lees Creek United Church of Christ this morning.  They did very well - the interim minister said that it was the first time he had heard "folk music" sung in that church and really appreciated it.  He also closed his sermon with a song "Ten Thousand Angels" which he thought fit in well with his message and especially well with the other songs - Dallas Holm's Calvary and Mary's Song.  As we pulled into the parking lot we tapped the car beside us - not hurting it at all but I know that they knew it happened as they were still sitting in the car yet.  Not recognizing them we spoke and introduced ourselves and learned that it was the new minister and his wife who begin their ministry there next Sunday - Robert Fishers who are now living in Sardinia.  They were having a pot luck dinner after church so we came back to New Vienna, picked up Grandma at church and went to the Windmill and had dinner.  Mary Virginia had been invited to go to Fort Ancient with the Melvin MYF group.  So we visited people in Wilmington until it was time to pick her up afterwards so had a full day.  By the way Darrell Hunter was going to church (Lees Creek) for the first time since his illness.  And he spoke so highly of you Roberta - how you had stopped by so often and cheered him up in your visits there last June.

Last night was the Hallowe'en carnival at the school which was a busy place.  We had supper there and after the parade and judging took Grandma home and then to the Haunted Hall (IOOF building) where the Sr. MYF were holding forth (instead of the church where they have been having decorated the last couple of years.  Carol Wise asked us if we would take Lori as she didn't want to take the twins.  She was really petrified so I didn't see much myself.  Ann Wolfrom took her back up to show her some of them asa they looked without their masks - which made her feel a little better.  Mary Virginia really had a weird get-up on.  Ann Wolfrom had made an over-the-head mask out of papier mache' and no one could guess who she was.  I had never been all through those rooms upstairs over Ginny's Restaurant until last week.  It was nice that they didn't have to work half the night cleaning up afterwards as they had to do before in order to get the church ready for services on Sunday morning.  They made around $300 in just two evenings of being open.

Sorry if we upset your plans, Carol and John.  We had no idea that you were planning on coming on Saturday instead of Wednesday and Thursday.  We haven't asked the Bains but have been wondering if they might like to come for Thanksgiving too - that is if you will also be here.  Her aunt Eleanor would also be welcome.  The only person we have invited is Mrs. Matthews.  Neither of the McCoys are able to come.  Did we tell you that they are now right next to Mrs. Matthews at Extended Care? Mrs. McCoy doesn't seem to know anyone or say anything which is hard on him.  He has also failed quite a bit just in the last month.  To backtrack to Thanksgiving - we would like to have you come and be here Thanksgiving with us and later in the weekend too if that is possible.  We had thought we'd combine taking Grandma to the Cincinnati airport and then going on to see Serena but that may be too much as Mrs. Pauline Simkins is also planning on going to Florida at the same time.  So perhaps they would leave later in the next week.  Do let us hear though what your definite plans are and hope that we haven't upset them too much.

Dad and Harold Thornburg spoke at the last New Vienna Republican Women's Club Meeting last Tuesday night when I had the program and had been asked to have them speak on the office of central committeemen.  We didn't get to go square dancing but hope to go back this next week.  We had thought that the Hortons would be here and that we would miss this one too but guess that they won't be arriving until Wednesday or Thursday.  Then Aunt Mary mentioned on her card to Dad that they have to be back in Lake Worth Sunday PM so guess that they will be leaving Saturday at the latest.

Thank you all for your birthday greetings, as someone remarked it's a lot better to have birthdays than to consider the alternative.  The last Saturday of the month the men have a prayer breakfast at the Church, then in the afternoon did get the yard cleaned up.  That is more relaxing that going to Atlanta and back in one day and hearing how our competitors are selling things cheaper than us, but that story is as old as the hills.

Carol and John -- how did your leaf raking go yesterday?  We suppose that Granville has leaf pick up.  The politicians were busy in NV Saturday putting up signs all over town . . .Vote for Jim Curits OR Vote for Larry Akers for Mayor.  The Akers forces even had some fans sporting badges at the Carnival.  There are an awful lot of signs -- political that is, in Wilmington.

Mary Virginia has met all the Stewart family now and said that Debbie would like to have Serena's address which she keeps forgetting to give to her.  MV couldn't realize that there is another family with a bigger age spread than her own.  Dennis Stewart is 32 and is basketball coach at Circleville.

Poor Dad didn't really have a birthday dinner at all.  He had requested "thickened milk" which we had for lunch yesterday and I had thought that we would have his celebration today but with MV gone and only three of us he suggested that we eat out so he didn't have to twist my arm too far for that.

Not sure of the details, but Larry Martin was chopping some wood recently and the wedge flew out and hit his leg and he has been laid up since.  Today was the "Run" sponsored by the Y.  The Clinton Co. Bank had 15 entrants, including two from the NV office . . . they all had the pro shirts with their name too -- real class.

We didn't see him today but while at Quaker Apts. we asked about Leroy Atchinson (of old News-Journal fame) -- and they said he was fine.  Sixty Minutes had an interesting skit on the bulk of the Sunday paper and the value of all those ads . . . the Cincinnati Enquirer was one paper that they took apart -- ahh, what memories . . . of those newspaper days.

Elizabeth Johnson moved last Thursday to Wilmington -- 756 Xenia Ave.  --just two houses from her sister. 

[Love, etc.]

1989 MV's Letter -Oct.25

[10/25/89?]

Dear Mom and Dad --

Happy Birthday, Dad!  What are you doing to celebrate?  A bike ride and    ?   

I don't think I told you about composition last week.  I took in a trumpet descant to turn in and Albin (professor) liked it so well that he sent it off to some publisher.  He said if they like it I could make $25-$30.  I guess that's how you get your foot in the door.  That's what he says.

Well, last night I had another date with Don Crowson (remember the handicapped guy that came last Thanksgiving?).  We had a nice time.  He'll probably be the only one that will come home with me (or join us in Lexington, as the case may be).  Everyone else seems to have plans.  Diane & Kevin are spending the week in Michigan.

I sent off letters today for the walk this weekend.  I didn't know any of the pilgrims but I wrote several on the team.  I wish I could be there for Dad's birthday and candlelight.  I'm sponsoring my roommate and another girl in the dorm this weekend in Lexington.  My talk is Sunday @ 11AM.

It was nice to get all the clothes from Roberta and actually be able to pull out something that fits.  As of last week, the total was 29½ lbs. on W.W.  I'll probably weigh in again tomorrow morning.

I only had one mid-term, which was in Old Testament.  I felt like I did fairly well but we haven't gotten back the test yet.

I think that about covers everything.  I'll write after the walk next week -- hopefully I'll also have something as far as job updates.  Please tell Grandma I said hello.

Love, 

Mary Va.

1989 MV's Recital Photos -Oct.8

Jean, MV & John

HH, Jean, John, Aunt Mary, Uncle Bill

John, Roberta, MV, HH, Serena, Jean & GHU

1989 MV's Letter -Sep.3

9-3-89

Dear Mom & Dad --

Thanks so much for calling this week -- what a nice surprise!  Already last Sunday seems like years ago.  What a busy day.

In reserving rooms, I got 3 in Larabee (where you normally stay) - 2 have double beds, 1 has twin beds.  The room equipped for a wheelchair is in Grice (the other male dorm) also has a private bath.  The Larabee rooms are $28/night, the Grice room is $26/night.  Right now, the rooms are reserved for Saturday and Sunday night.  That can be changed if you all choose to leave on Sunday.  I just wanted to let you know they are available.

Also enclosed is the latest insurance bill, with the corrected amount.  Thank you for taking care of that.

I hope you had a nice visit with John, and that he got to stay through today.  I was sorry not to see him.

My new roommate is from Columbus, Mississippi, majoring in Christian Education.  She just finished her bachelors in music 3 weeks ago at Old Miss.  She's 23 and very nice.  I think we'll get along fine.

I'm sending an application to a church in Douglas, GA and I got a letter from a church in Denver (CO) that they had my resume & would be contacting me when they close applications.  The Denver church has about 1100 members and are willing to pay $25-$30,000/year.  They must have some rich folks in the congregation.  Otherwise I haven't heard anything else back.  Bill Goold got a call from a church in Alabama looking for someone.  He's supposed to get me more info.  He wouldn't say where in Alabama.

I'm putting in a recital invitation that I did.  I figure they cost me about 5¢/ a card -- which is very appealing over professional alternatives.  It serves the purpose well.  I'll probably mail them out this week or next.

I just called Shakertown to make dinner reservations and they are full on 10/7 in non-smoking so I'll make them elsewhere.  Well, I just called Fifth Quarter, a restaurant known in Lexington for their salad bar and steaks.  We have a table reserved at 5:30 on 10/7 in non-smoking.

Mother you had mentioned getting paper supplies for the reception?  I think shades of pink and burgundy -- we'll need drinking glasses (8 oz); napkins (full dinner size); table clothes (24 to fit an oblong table of six) and plastic ware.  I think Lorraine has everything else.  Oh -- yes cups for the fruit salad (4 oz) and plates for the sandwiches.  There may be some cups up in the closet from the last recital that could be used for the fruit salad.  I don't know how many were left -- actually if that burgundy sheet is still available, we could use that to cover the main food tables & just get 22 table clothes.  (Enough supplies for 150)

Well - I think that takes care of all the "business" for now.  Hope everything is well in New Vienna.  Please tell Grandma & Hortons hello.

Love,

Mary Va.

1969 Catherine Letter & Postcard -Aug.14,17

8-14-69

Hi!  I was glad to get your post card from Wheeling although I found it a little confusing.  The contact came yesterday.  It is so great to be able to see again.  I feel like shouting to the world, "I can see, I can see!"  However, I doubt if many would understand.   It's like seeing everything for the first time again.  I have made a hotel reservation with the group for Sept. 16.  We're staying at the Hotel McAlpin (Sheraton Atlant).  Even if you all take me you couldn't put me up for the night and get me to the pier (it's pier 92 at W 52nd, we sail on the "Europa") for $7.00.  I haven't really made any plans for getting there except Greg and I talked about going say just a day early so we'd have a little time in NY.  I'd love to have you take me but if that is too early I can understand.  Write soon!

Love, Catherine

August 17, 1969

Sunday 10:30 PM

Dear Mother, Dad, Roberta (?), Serena, John, and Mary,

Hi!  I was glad to get the letter from you all on Friday.  It's been awhile since you made carbon copies, hasn't it?  My typewriter isn't broken.  I'm babysitting.

A friend of Cal's from Denver who I went out with while I was visiting Sue last summer is here visiting Cal now.  I'm going with him to the music concert tomorrow night (See other side **).  I also went to the * this afternoon.  I have been doing so much reading lately that I really enjoyed gong to the concert and just listening.  Several of my friends (Cal being one) are in the Bachward Society.  They are all so musical and my musical talents being so limited.  I often find myself overwhelmed.  Mike (Cal's friend from Denver) is also music oriented although he plans to go to law school after he graduates from Colorado College (I'm not sure if that's the right name but it is some fairly small school in Colorado that has a Saga) next May.

Lately, it has been impressed upon us (or on me anyway) that after I get back from Germany there is hardly any time until I take the comps.  Than's an even more depressing thought than finals which are coming up shortly.  As a history major I can choose 3 out of 4 area in which to specialize (?) -- US History, Europe before 1500, Europe since 1500, or something non-West (e.g. Africa, India, China, . . . gee maybe I could go into Australian history.)  The comps will cover the 3 area we choose.

Have you heard anymore about Priscilla Walker?  I sent her a birthday card on Wednesday or Thursday and then when you said she was in the hospital I sent a post card.  I think she wrote me that her brother, Burch, in Wilmington, had died which leaves her being the one and only if I'm not mistaken.

I haven't seen Greg since I got your letter to tell him we can him to Dayton.  You said you could take his "things" and I'm assuming that includes him.

A month from today we leave New York.  I'm saving all my pennies, dimes and nickels.  I guess the best thing to do is get them all changed into American Express traveler's checks.  I guess I'll buy a Euro-rail pass before I go, too.  At our orientation meeting this week they're going to talk about individual travel.

Keep me posted!

Love,

Catherine

1969 Joe Horton Recital Clipping -Apr.22

Horton to Give Organ Recital

Joseph Uible Horton, a student at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, will give his Senior Organ Recital at Christ Church Tuesday, April 22, 7 P.M.  

Horton is a student of Gerre Hancock, F.A.G.O., organist and choirmaster at Christ Church, Cincinnati, and will graduate in June with Bachelor of Music degree.

He is the grandson of Mrs. C.J. Uible, New Vienna, and the son of Mr. and Mrs. William A. Horton Lake Worth, Fla., formerly of Hillsboro.

The public is invited.

1979 Roberta's Letter -Feb.1

Thursday

February 1st /79

Hi!

Does Ohio seem warm after being in Oregon?  Was quite a surprise to hear you all on the phone last night.  M & M – were out walking Buffy – who isn't getting as many walks as he likes now – w/all the rain!

I paid the 1st 6 months of health insurance yesterday – did get $300 deductible – instead of $500 – because it only made a difference of some $9.00 a year.

We were in Sears over the week-end – I stopped in Catalog dept to ask about Mary's pants suit – and it was in.  It fits nicely & is real pretty.  She picked out a blouse of Marion's to go w/ it – she has really enjoyed Marion's clothes closet – wears something of hers about 4 times out of 5!!

Last night was the poorest – but still good – for a buck – dinner.  Hot dogs (2), beans, salad, chips, and cookies & punch.  Angus & Fred both enjoy going.  Both weeks it has been clear & dry both coming & going.

This dinner coming up on Saturday ought to be good – $3 – polynesian – both food & entertainment.  Mary Va seems to know alot of people at the church – both adults & children.  Marion & Rev. Sears are great teasers.  OH!  his daughter sure put out a concert.  She teaches voice at Southern Cal. University – in Orange County Opera group.  Marion asked Rev. Sears if she got the voice from him – he said NO – he still had his voice inside of him – as he never has gotten it out.  He has 5 daughters – guess all are very musical!

Mary Va has been doing lots of home work – working on paper for English –

The Post Office contract station at McClintock/Southern in TGY – closed yesterday – as whole store did.  That's the biggest TGY store in Mesa/Tempe area.  We should be busier.

Love,

Berta

1988 MV's Letter -Nov.

[11-?-88]
Dear Mom and Dad,

Sorry I haven't written in so long.  In many ways I feel as if I'm still catching up after the Emmaus walk.

It's getting to be the busy part of the semester – tests and papers are all due within the next month it seems.  I'm sorry now that I signed up for 15 hours. Next semester I'm only taking 12, and the additional 3 hours in January.

Last night I went to Louisville to hear the Radio Stuttgart Symphony Orchestra conducted by Sir Neville Marriner.  It was an excellent concert, at the new Kentucky Center for the Arts right downtown Louisville, just a block from the river.  The building is gorgeous – built just 5 years ago.  It makes Music Hall look ancient.  I've got tickets to see/hear 2 more concerts there – in January, Kathleen Battle will do a recital (well-known Soprano) and in March Vladimir Feltsman, the great Russian pianist.  Roberta Peters is in Lexington tomorrow night, but tickets start at $20!

Enclosed is a note from Bill Trimble here who is recently from Cincinnati, originally Pittsburgh  He's just over friendly I guess.

This weekend is the Women's Walk in Lexington; Diane & I are sponsoring a girl from here at school.  I don't know why but Lexington has never had a waiting list for their Walks.  I'll be interested to see how they do candlelight and closing.  Their walks are held at the Children's Home (Methodist) near Versailles.

The list for Thanksgiving has grown.  Diane and Margaret (from Africa) will be coming again this year.  In addition Diane's boyfriend, Kevin, Betsy from Georgia, Vicky from Jamaica, John from New Jersey, Don from Texas and Sally from Japan.  I realize that is a lot of people; we can sleep in the living room (none of them expect real beds).  If you take care of the turkey, we will do the rest – including breakfast Thursday morning.  They are not coming to be fed and entertained – we need a break from school.  They think it's wonderful that you're opening your home to them.  Is Serena coming home?

Enclosed are my new business cards.  I have already started two new voice students, with the possibility of 3-4 more at least.  I think after Christmas I'll be ready to leave Zondervan.

Dad – I got some notice from Tenneco yesterday  I haven't had a chance to go over it.  Do you know what I'm speaking of?  If so, what, if anything, do I need to do?  You can send the bill for your counsel with your answer, 🌞

Hope Grandma enjoyed her trip to Phoenix and recovers well.  Aways glad to hear from you.

Much love,

Mary Virginia

1988 MV's Letter -Sep.18

18-9-88

Dear Mom and Dad and Grandma,

Welcome back from Holland!  I hope you had a good trip.  I've had only one postcard thus far but I'm sure they're keeping you busy.

The past 2-3 weeks since arriving back in Wilmore have been very hectic.  Bill Goold was flat on his back in bed for 2 weeks with what the Dr. thought was a herniated or ruptured disc.  So I ended up directing the choir at church and Singing Seminarians here at school and other "little" things necessitated under those two headings.  Today was his first Sunday back in Church and Tuesday he'll be back teaching.  I enjoyed covering for him, but wish I hadn't had all my normal duties to keep after.

Classes are going fine.  I've ended up taking voice lessons for credit because there was a stink raised over me continuing to study with Ginny while not doing so for credit.  So now I'm taking 15 hours this semester.  None of my classes meet more than once a week.  I have one that meets 3 hours once a week (Foundations of Church Growth), 2 that meet 2 hours once a week (Character of a Methodist and Music Ministry to Youth and Adults).  Then there's conducting, Singing Seminarians and Basic Theology.

On October 2 I'm becoming an affiliate member of the UM church here in Wilmore in hopes that will help me with the Kentucky Conference, should I get a church job around here.

I appreciate you transporting John to and from the Walk this weekend.  If you would, there's a comforter (in a box) on the right side of my closet that you could take with you Thursday.  I'll drop him a note of explanation this week.

I have to work Friday and Saturday so I won't be able to there for Candlelight or closing.  I'm sure everything will be fine, I'd just like to be able to be there.

Today I ordered tickets for some performances at the Kentucky Center for the Arts in Louisville – among other things they are having the Radio Stutgard Sumphony (Oct. 31), Kathleen Battle (Soprano in January) and Vladimir Feltzman (Russian Pianist in March).

Anxious to hear about your trip.  The organist at Wilmore U.M. is originally from Holland and wanted information on the trip.

Love,

Mary Va.