1970 Roberta's Letter -Sep.23

 

Sept 23, 1970

[George Fox College, Newberg, Oregon]

Dear Everyone,

Hello There!  Well -- I just put away all of my suitcases.  It's now 8:30 - 11:30 p.m. -- Ohio time.  Oh, I'm tired.

What an orientation!  As of 9:00 tomorrow morning we will start taking tests!

It is sure cold here!  My lined C.P.O. sure felt good!

We stopped in Portland to buy a pillow.  I had to pay $7.00 for it.  Now all I need is 1) blankets, 2) pillow cover & case and 3) rugs.  Tonight I'm going to sleep in my long jeans!  I have a nice desk.

The desk has book shelves, above it and also a long bulletin board that runs the whole length of the bed and is about 2½ feet long.

Well.  Do write and I'll be writing you all.

Tell Grandma Hello for me.  I'll be sure and write her.

We have simply a beautiful view out of our windows.  The back half of the room is mostly window.  I'm on the 3rd floor!  How much would it cost to send my camera?

Lots of Love,

Roberta

1984 Elizabeth Johnson Letter to Roberta -Sep.20

 

Sept 20 [1984]

Dear Roberta & Sid, 

I really enjoyed spending Aug. 19 with the Uibles.  Its always good to see you.  Thanks for your card from Hocking Hills.  The last time I was there was the summer of 1951.

Garnet Fisher & I go to visit the Fishers at Logan, Ohio quite often.  I spent last week end with Garnet down near Rocky Fork Lake.  I went to Sunday school & church first.  Got to meet the new preacher.  I came home Monday evening.

I enjoyed the Bus tour to the Ozarks Sept 5 thru 8.  Saw the Play Shepherd of the Hills, also toured St. Louis.  Mariann came & took me to lunch for my birthday. [Elizabeth was born Sept. 14, 1914, thus we know the year this letter was written.]  June is taking us all out to dinner Sat. night.  Friday 21st is Mariann's birthday.  She will be 32 this time.  I was 70.  I am slowing down a little.

Worked upstairs the past 3 days.  Got it all ready to close off for winter.

Luther Warren's marriage license was in yesterday's paper.  He is 93 and she 78 years.  I am invited to the wedding on Sept. 30.  It's at the Friends meeting house on the campus and we are invited to a sit down dinner afterwards at Prairie View.  

Well must move along.  I have checks to bank and apples to make into dumplings for the freezer.

I am sorry we didn't get to the farm.  The Spurlocks are doing a really good job of taking care of the yard.  Everything looks neat & well cared for.  It would have been a good time for Sid to have seen it.

Love to you both,

Elizabeth

1980 Roberta's Letter -Sep.18

[9-18-80]

Thursday Night 

Dear Family,

If I were really on the ball I would get this written and out to Rev. Wise to "special delivery" it to you all.  I understand that Mom and Dad are going down with his wife to pick him up at the airport.  Hope you didn't have to give up a square dance evening for the trip.

I didn't get it mentioned in Grandma's letter but both Marion and I have been busy trying to figure out the "ins and outs" of the new toy -- a Litton Microwave -- we had looked at the General Electric model that fits over the stove -- but they were very expensive -- plus a $60 installation charge.  The same model as the "spacesaver" put out by GE cost some $250 dollars less -- to just go on a counter.  The one we got is called the "Meal in One" -- its got alot of features -- that we need to learn how to use.  Right now Marion just gets upset with it all -- when she can't get it do do what she thinks it should do.

We did have some chicken in it tonight -- some we had left from the night before having done extra on the trill.  It was very good.  Also did baked potatoes -- which were far too well done.  I'm anxious to really learn how to use -- then feel like we will really get the use out of it.

We went down to shoe city Tuesday Night -- they had about fifteen pairs of shoes that were my size and that I really liked.  Couldn't get over it.  Usually its two or three pairs in my size and none that I really like.  So I ended up getting four pairs -- one Flamolare tie shoe, a Selby sandal, and two pairs of Cobbies -- one Sandal and one tie.  The total bill was some $78 dollars -- and that also includes three pair of hose.  These shoes should last for a long while -- and really not all that unreasonable -- for today's prices!!!

Has Mie Young arrived yet?  That was very interesting how she had gotten a letter from her father . . . would make you all wonder just how soon she would be coming.  Anxious to hear her thoughts about the school, and New Vienna itself.

I really had some excitement Monday night.  I've gotten into the habit of starting the bike in the garage -- when the car is not there, so that there is plenty of room to turn the bike around, and ride down the driveway.  Marion had driven, so I went to start the bike -- had it on the kick-stand.  Kicked it twice -- and then "boom -- a few sparks -- before I knew it I had the bike outside on the road.  That in itself is really something; because to get it off the kickstand is quite a feat and also to set it on the kickstand is also a feat.  That was really the extent of the excitement -- except that the bike lost all the gas in it.  I had just filled it up on Sunday and had only gone about 20 miles on the tank.  I left the bike out all day -- it was still dripping a little when I left for work.  Called up Doreen Stubbs and borrowed her car to get to work.  That night the guy came over that sold me the bike -- the owner of the shop.  He said it was just a problem with the gas line, and some kind of short somewhere.  He fixed it up for me -- didn't charge me anything.  I've a feeling that maybe it was something that was not put together right -- or finished right when I had it in for the tune-up.  But, it's going fine now -- and I'm convinced I'm much better off with it.  I drove our car out Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and I was constantly asked to haul someone or do this or that everytime I headed for the door.

I didn't get around to registering for ASU this fall -- but think its just as well -- I seem to have too much stuff going now.  End up doing quite a bit of work at home -- stuff that doesn't get done at work.  Also am still working for Harry -- the flower shop -- had thought about telling him I was quitting as of end of this month -- but didn't.  Did tell him that I wanted off the first two Saturdays in October.  He seemed to think that he would have a hard time without me two Saturdays straight.  I'm doing all his billing now -- as far as all the wire orders -- and the organizations Teleflora, Flora, American Floral Assoc., are the big ones.  FTD is really the big one -- but that is strictly computerized.  Really nice and easy.  I've also worked for him some evenings -- and it all comes in handy -- the money for shoes, and microwave, and all the routine bills.

Also the book-keeping process out at work is being completely changed on October 1st.  Most senior centers will be going on computer -- but we will not be.  The center in town is going on computer.  Under this new system we will have to figure out daily on each person -- how many times this year they have used the center, what age group (60-64; 64-69; etc) what income bracket; what marital status; etc.  Also divide their day into 30 minute sections; and what they do for each time section -- meal, recreation, nutrition ed, consumer ed, etc.  Just unbelievable.  I'm supposed to go to a four hour training deal this Tuesday for the new system.

Did I ever tell you all that Vera (the woman that wanted to come to New Vienna this summer) had a heat stroke in her home about two days after I left?  She really had a time of it all.  Wasn't found for a day -- then taken to the hospital where she spent a week -- then put in a private home -- small nursing home type of deal -- but that turned out to be a disaster -- she was too much alive for them -- so they took her back home; and her neighbor took her in -- then she went to her grand niece's in Calif. for about a week; then come back.  Now she is staying in with a couple about 4 blocks from where she lives.  She really is happy there -- has a small apartment -- what used to be their attached garage.  It's fixed up very nice -- and she can use their house as far as watching TV etc.  She has to pay them $250 a month -- which included her meals.  It's an ideal set-up.  Wish she could stay there forever -- but they have a lady coming in October 4th.  The paramedics asked her age -- and she wouldn't tell -- I did see it on her medical records -- 94 years old.  She is quite a character.  Hopefully she will be ok back in her own house this winter.  The main problem was that she didn't have any air conditioning, and would keep all the windows closed, didn't even use a fan  The other day I was over there and she wanted me to write some checks for her -- her account was down to some 83 thousand after I wrote about 6 checks for her.  Just unbelievable!!!  Vera was walking with a walker when I first saw her -- in the nurses home -- before she went to Calif.  Now she is getting along with just her cane again.  But when she dances she doesn't need the cane.  She has been coming to the center three times a week -- bingo days.  Then on Tuesdays and Thursdays she goes to her church (Catholic) and plays cards.

We are looking forward to Grandma coming out.  Hopefully by then we will have the microwave directions down pat so it will be at its top-efficient self.

Better be closing -- thanks for your letter . . . .

Love,

Roberta

1980 Roberta's Letter to GHU -Sep.17

 

[9/17/80]

Wednesday Morning

Dear Grandma,

From the sounds of your last letter and the folks on the telephone you all really had a busy time with the Hortons visit.  I'm glad you've had now a few weeks to rest up before we take off.

Your arrival date here of the first is just fine.  It's going to be a big day at work on the 2nd -- Thursday.  A play -- sort of.  they have all been busy learning their lines -- etc.  I'm glad that you will be here to see that.  Also there are some other good stuff happening out at work while you will be here.

The dates for us to go to Oregon are also fine.  I've got it worked out for me to miss work that week.  Actually I will only be missing four days of work because the 13th is some kind of holiday so the center would be closed.  I keep thinking I should write Catherine a note of some kind.  About how many days would you like to spend there?  Have you thought about what else would be interesting to see or do while we are in the area.  I would like to go over by the Oregon coast.  The weather and foliage should really be nice the week we are there -- hopefully not too cold!!!

Work has actually been very hectic the last two weeks.  We are limited to the number of people that we are able to take -- 70 meals at the center.  Both days this week we have had to turn away about 40 people.  Of course everyone feels like "that they should not be turned away."  I wonder what its going to be like this winter with the arrival of the "snow-birds."  That really upsets the people -- when a "snowbird" knocks them out of getting a meal -- when they live here year-round.  We cannot turn away winter visitors -- and are not allowed to give preference to year-round residents.

Have you every heard from Joe as far as when he will be in Ohio????  Hopefully it will be the last part of the month.  Will the Hortons make another trip up to Ohio?  I sure wish I could see Joe on one of his trips.

It's now Thursday morning . . . yesterday morning Rev. Wise and his parents came out to the center to see me.  His parents don't live all that far from the center.  They are sure enjoying his visit with them.

I've been busy typing up new song sheets for out at work.  We don't have a typewriter there so its meant doing them at home.  Two weeks ago I took this typewriter out there but in a weeks time only three songs got typed.  So I decided it would be much easier to do them here at home.

It has noticeably cooled down . . . thank goodness.  Now in the morning usually open up the doors until about 7:00 or so -- we still keep the Air Conditioning on tho at 80º.

I need to close so that I can get ready for work.  Will be writing the folks tonight . . .

Love,

Roberta

1980 Family Letter -Sep.14

Sunday afternoon - 

September 14, 1980 

Dearest Family -

Another busy week is on its way and the busy winter schedule is started with Woman's Club starting last Wednesday and other things about to begin again.  I should write soon after I hear from you for think of so many things after our phone calls and letters received.

Little Wendy's birthday will soon be here and hope to get a tape out to her so she won't forget her one set of grandparents completely.  It is almost finished but we want to add a little bit more.  Its amazing how long 15 minutes can be at times.  Always enjoy taking to her on the phone too and wish them for phonavision to see her and the changes that she is making.  Read the other day that most people don't want picture along with hearing the voice so they aren't pushing that.  There are times . . . .

Roberta, you have never once mentioned about your classes this fall but think that ASU has started -- are you taking any courses or do you feel busy enough without?  We are interested.  Thanks too for the ad you  sent Grandma on jacks for Pierre Cardin.  Jeanne Sanker sent us the same thing earlier and I had meant to send it on -- also with her comment -- will try to remember to enclose it.

Missed your weekly call Serena -- in fact we had planned to call you but time slipped by and you were on your way to your volunteer work at the Chicago P.L. before I realized it was too late.  We have been wondering about how the week of October 3-5 suits your for a visit -- or meeting us someplace.  I know it is John's birthday and we'd be glad t have them down but they haven't said anything about their plans and it is one of the few weekends when something else isn't keeping us home.  Dad thought you might enjoy getting away from Chicago and meeting us ??? -- any ideas?

We do want to get up to Newark and see John and Carol's new abode -- Dad and Grandma have already been there but MV and I sure haven't and would like to.  She (MV) has commitments for the band the next two Saturdays with parades and contests on the 20, 27, and Oct. 18.  How about the younger Uibles joining us here some weekend?  Like next week end or better still the following one.  Sept. 26 there is to be a dinner honoring Harsha and it happens to be the same night as EC's homecoming and Band Boosters' chili supper.  If you can't get down for Friday there is a parade in Jamestown and then come home with us??  It has been A LONG time since we've seen you.

Glad that Catherine seems to be enjoying her new job and learning the ropes of a dentist's office.  The extra time off would be nice to have too.  Dad had wanted me to ask you about your getting the National Geographic.  We didn't get ours and he asked Bill Flint who said "Well, every month some come in bad shape and it must be your turn to not get yours:.  Needless to say he has missed it and wonders but of course can read it at Wilmington PL or some place else.

Grandma and Mrs. Moore are making their plans to leave Oct. 1st for Phoenix and Mrs. Moore's sons wanted Roberta's address and phone number to get in touch with her.  Hope something can be worked out as far as perhaps getting them bak to the airport so Roberta won't have to take time off.  Guess she is a school principal or superintendent.

Carole Wise has been speaking at church while Jim is out visiting his parents in Arizona.  She does an excellent job and some may regret having him back on the job.  She is vey capable.  Has Jim called Roberta?  We meant to tell you last week to be sure and tell him how she is doing a good job.

We have been looking over the book about Oregon that Roberta gave Dad for his birthday back in 1970 when she was in Newberg.  There is a real good picture of Billy Chinook lake and the area where we went swimming at Cove Park (correct title?) [Yes, it was referred to as "The Cove" and is near Madras.]  No doubt there will be some of the east part in the Wallowa area too.  Never did we know then we would be seeing so much of that state when we first looked at it.

Yesterday we worked over at the annual (4th) corn festival in the Band Boosters' booth selling corn dogs, caramel corn and pepsi.  We also had corn and potato chips, but only sold about 3 bags altogether.  It wasn't the best location for we could have done alot better out nearer the crowd but were back in a corner of Floral Hall but our part is done for this year.

Dad is on a committee to help raise funds for Wilmington College.  There are three groups -- headed by an alumnus, a Quaker, and a community leader -- each of these gets five more and then each get five moe hoping to raise $6 million so it is well organized.  Sounds like it will be well covered -- Dad didn't seem to have any trouble recruiting his five and hope these five are able to do the same.

We have had so many little tomatoes, pears, and apples (from Wise's) plus our own good eating apples -- wish we could share with you.  The red raspberries have also done very well -- haven't froze any of them but keeping them eaten -- its not hard to get a pint at a time.

Had a surprise in yesterday's mail -- a letter from Kim FOR Mie Young -- would have been tempted to open it to learn more what is going on but no doubt it is written in Korean so hope to hear more and will keep you informed.  Each time the phone rings we thing "this could be it".

The new square dance classes start this Tuesday while the "pro's" night is Thursday night.  We need to be retired to get all these things covered.  The Club had a demonstration last night before the Grandstand at the Corn Festival.  Lot of old stuff there -- like the hand corn planter that was used 100 years ago, etc. etc.

Last Wednesday evening the Frank Cunninghams in Wilmington invited us over for supper.  She was on the group with us in Ireland and one of the best and cheapest meals we had there was in a pub with quiche as the main course -- naturally we had that at their home also.  They are really nuts about ship travel.  Earlier this year they flew over to London for a weekend and then returned home on the QE 2.

The Sankers are coming up next Sunday -- Bill is lucky to have a business trip to Europe and then they are going to spend two weeks on their own. 

Buckeye Molding is moving their operation this week to their new plant across the Railroad from us.  Grandma is happy that there will be less parking on Main Street and not having the people arriving for work at 6 A.M. anymore for that gave her a too early start.  Her house looks very nice after being painted, interesting too that in the not too distant future the paint job will cost more than what the house did in 1927.  On the wheel chair ramp they mixed in some plastic something, which gives the ramp a sandpaper type finish.  Hopefully it will give us a more secure feeling when the ramp is wet.

Yesterday visited Libby Milburn in the hospital, she is the Wells employee that threw some gasoline on what she thought was a "dead fire" and boom she received some very bad burns . . . this was in the middle of July and now she is back in the hospital for some more skin grafting.  She hopes to get back to work in December . . . so do we, s she is one of the main people.  Visiting Extended Care Home always makes me feel extra grateful that our parents have had their facilities until the time "for the big trip".  Too many of these nursing home are like being in a warehouse.

Joe Horton will be arriving October 15th for three weeks and he hopes to get to N.V.  The ice cream freezer will be ready for action for him.  Yesterday the band boosters had this Schwann truck-load sale promotion -- the band gets 10% (but we think their prices are so high that it is sort of a joke) for their 6 quarts of ice cream sell for $7.50, even tho the containers are very nice to reuse.  They also have good fish but didn't get any this time as MV did the shopping -- just 2 6 -qt of ice cream -- chocolate marshmallow ripple and butter pecan.  Wish their chocolate were more chocolatey though.  

Mrs. Gordon, Virginia Walker's mother is doing real well -- able to be home by herself and gets around on a walker so didn't have to go to a nursing home.  We stopped out to see them this afternoon but they weren't home.  Mrs. Walker told me recently how much she appreciates you girls stopping to see her when are home.

Running out of space so will close -- Love to each one of you --

1950 Linn Zook poem/postcard -Sep.19

9/18/50

Dear Lawyer,

Clap your hands,

Shout out loud.

Our boy has passed, 

Ain't we proud!

Let it ring,

Make it Known,

By word of mouth

Or telephone!

Spread the news

Wide and far.

Harold Uible's

Passed the bar!

Here's to tell you

By this card,

Congratulations --

You've worked hard!

--Linn

P.S. No kidding Doc -- that's wonderful !!!

197? Roberta's postcard -undated

Originally thought this card might have been mailed in 1970 as were the last two postcards we recently saw from Roberta in Florida.  But then there is the mention of going to West Palm to "sign up" which might have been a year or two later when she switched to college in Florida.  Maybe Roberta can further enlighten us.  Later in September 1970, Roberta started school at George Fox College in Oregon.  More about that soon.

[unknown date]

Hello there!  Am down here having a great time.  Have been to the Ocean twice -- once with Robbie (Monday) and Sunday aft. with Uncle Bill.

Also saw the movie "Cactus Flower" [which was released in 1969] yesterday with Aunt Mary and Rob.

I'm bound to get a suntan . . . . or a sunburn.  Today I'm going to the beach with Sue -- a friend of Mares.  First we're going to West Palm for me to sign up.  Tell Grandma I said Hi.  See you all sometime.  Remember -- if you'll be good you can drive my car!  If not -- Ho, Hum.

Love,

Roberta

1990 HH & JWBU postcards -Sep.12

9/12/90 -- Dear John

Nice trip to Beijing & really modern rooms @ this Friendship [?] Hotel -- even w/ a large Olympic pool.  The city is getting ready for the Asian games which begin 9/22.

There are 23 in our group -- 9 of them are from Calif.

Enjoying the Chinese foods & getting used to the chopsticks -- it does slow down my eating speed.  We have a thermos of hot & cold water in our room, plus a Kenmore refrigerator.  Eng. channel on T.V.  We will see "T" (drawing of box) [Tiananmen Square] today & Great Wall later.

Love, Mother & Dad

Wed. Sept. 12, 1990

[Addressed to Hortons & GHU]

Arrived yesterday in Beijing after overnight near Tokyo.  Began to sightsee today -- take a train to Shijiazhuang tomorrow.  Will study Chinese language a little, exercise the Chinese way -- Tai ji.

Plenty of rice & other goodies to eat, had English papers on plane to read & English T.V. Channel in the hotel room even an  icebox bar.  There is glue in the room if needed for the stamps.  Love, J & H

2000 - Kate's email -Sep.9

From: Kate

To: Jean & Harold

Sent:  Sunday, September 10, 2000 1:08 PM

Subject:  Thank you

Dear Grandma and Grandpa Uible,

Thank you for my early Christmas present.  Mom and I bought a scooter this morning at Toys-R-Us.  I love it and it rides reaaly nice.  Maybe Grandpa would like to borrow it for his Indiana ride.  It was fun to visit you last weekend.  We had a good time.

Dad has had a hard time getting through to Oglebay but he found out rates this summer were $130-140 PER night for rooms in Wilson Lodge.  Sounds a bit expensive don't you think?  We leave for Cleveland this evening for Andrew's INS appointment at 8:30am Friday.  He should become a true blue American U.S. citizen soon.  I have a slumber party at Kristen's house tomorrow night.  I still want to give Ginny a call.  

Love,

Kate Uivble

1980 Catherine's Letter -Sep.9

Tuesday, September 9, 1980

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  Gerry is at an Elks investigating committee meeting (where they "investigate" prospective members) and Wendy has just gone to bed so hopefully I will have time to get a letter off.  Thanks for the clippings in your last letter.  The one about teaching your child to swim was interesting -- maybe next summer.  Wendy is splashing around in the tub in the meanwhile.  The one on Marriage Encounter was also good.

My new job is going fairly well.  I am catching on fairly quickly which certainly makes it easier.  It will be a few more days before I am able to read the charts and make complete sense of what is going on though.  Also he likes to set up his appointments so that he does the difficult things in the morning and the more routine exams in the afternoon and I find it hard to know when someone calls when to schedule them.  Usually though the people who need difficult things done have already come in for a check-up and then reschedule for the further work while they are there and the people who call just need a check-up.  And then there is the matter of trying to get money out of people which is a big part of the job.  To sum it up -- it's all still pretty new but not overwhelmingly so.

Sunday we went on a picnic and a hike on the lower Metolius River.  According to the map the place we went is 18 miles due west of Madras but it takes 1½ hour to get there -- the last five miles being similar to the Hat Point Road.  To get there you go out past the Cove and keep going.  The tourist season being over the place was relatively deserted.

I just checked on Wendy -- who has gone to sleep but of course kicked off all of her covers in the process.  Gerry bought her a new watch today -- a 59¢ special -- as the old one became unwearable.  She was thrilled.  This one has a band made out of elastic.  I have been thinking more about what to get her for her birthday but haven't come up with too much.  I didn't think to recommend books to you but I'm sure you thought of that.  Also I ate a peach -- we still have around 15 of them left and I have only had to throw out two or three that were rotting.  What did yo do with your peaches?

Now Wednesday A.M.  Tonight we are going to a public hearing on whether the Deschutes River (the portion between the Cove and the Columbia -- not where you went rafting, Dad) should be regulated.  This would mean that in order to raft permits might be required.

Well, it's time to go to work so I better close and get this in the mail.  We got your letter today -- Wednesday --.  Thanks!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

& Wendy

1970 Roberta's Postcards -Sep.7 & 8

Sunday Aft. [postmarked 7 SEP 1970]

We got in Lake Worth today at 12:15 p.m., stayed with Mares last night in her room.  Cris's boat got here just fine.  Sun sure is hot here.

Love,

Roberta

[postmarked 8 SEP 1970]

Hello Bill Flint!

I'm now at the ocean.  It's almost empty -- of people not water.  How's Aunt Virginia?  Aunt Mary and I drove around West Palm.

Love, Bert

1980 Roberta's Letter -Sep.6

9/6/80

Friday Night

8:30 P.M.

Dear Family,

Thanks for your letter this past week . . . do be sure and send John and Carol's new address.  I'm sure they must be very busy with the move and all.  Have you all been up to see them in the house yet?  Just today the lady from Newark was telling me she had heard from the lady that I visited just down the street (Church Street) from John's and how much she had enjoyed our visit.

Don't think I mentioned it on the phone but during the month of August the East Mesa Senior Center served more people than any other past month . . . and considering it has been open for three years . . . and the month of August around here would be usually one of the slowest months . . . that's really something !!!  In fact, every month since I've been there it has really picked up.  Now we are at our limit . . . 70 people per day as fas as meals go that we are allowed to serve.

Just in the last two weeks have we really had to turn away any amount of people.  Some 38 people for Monday.  That is never a pleasant situation.  We limit the reservations to 20 over the phone and 50 walk-ins.  Usually we have 20 reservations taken on the phone by 8:30 -- and the walk-in ones filled up by 11:00.  That means that most people are coming to the center earlier -- so have lots of little craft projects going, etc.

This past week I had trouble with my bike.  I was going down Center Street near Broadway -- very close to where I had the flat tire and the bike just quit on me.  Never did get it started.  Was on my way to work -- walked the bike to a business with a fenced in parking lot where the guy was just unlocking the fence.  Asked him if I could leave the bike there for the day and he said fine.  Walked the few blocks to Mesa Central and borrowed my old bike (Dorothy's bike) and made it fine the rest of the way to work.  (some 11 miles).  Sure seemed like alot longer distance on the smaller bike -- going some 28 mph instead of 50-55 mph.

That evening came back to check out my bike and it still would not start.  So I thought about pushing it to the repair shop (where I got it) -- some three miles away.  I ended up calling the shop and they came after it.  The bike weighs some 250 pounds and the afternoon was plenty hot, so I wasn't too excited about the idea of pushing it that distance.  They gave the bike a tune-up  which it needed along with this and that . . . cost me $30 -- sure cheaper than keeping a car up.  The bike has 3,800 miles.  I was told that's alot of miles for the spark plug -- guess that was a large part of the problem . . . also something electrical.

Marion this year is carpooling with two others, so that would give me the car to use two weeks out of three . . . tho I imagine I will stick with the bike . . . so much better on gas, and of course the situation of being asked to haul people here and there problem comes up.  Not from my boss but from the participants.

Oh, my boss -- or rather my direct supervisor's husband who is about 57 just last week has a major stroke.  She may have to take a leave of absence.  Her husband is now home from the hospital but not able to walk -- and must go to therapy every day at least for the time being.  They feel that no permanent damage has been done so that is good.  He was a prof at Mesa Community College and was to start classes the following day after the stroke.  They have three kids in college.  Live in Fountain Hills -- about 16 miles or so from here.  He was in Desert Sam. hospital and now having his therapy there.  They both smoked over 4 packs of cigarettes a day . . . and the Doctor says that both of them should quit.

We had to ask for menu suggestions from the participants out at work.  Wish I could send you some of the papers that were handed in to me.  Some were really funny -- like "more fish -- and less seafood."  Or "that seniors should not be given so many starches -- but that they really like the macaroni and spaghetti" .  Many said "less chicken" and as many said "more chicken" also the same on Mexican food -- both more and less were requested.  A three month cycle of menus are being approved now by the nutritionists and the food service and the senior center.  Some of the changes will be that we will now be offering both 2% and buttermilk to the people.

Tomorrow I'll be working for Harry.  Still not sure if I want to tell him I will just work through this month.  You know that this Sunday is Grandparents Day -- so I'm curious if that will mean any extra orders -- don't think the idea is too far spread -- at least not yet!!!

Think I did tell you that he has opened up the new shop now out in East Mesa.  It's at a small shopping center on 63rd Street and Apache Trail (or Main Street).  The shopping center is brand new -- still some stores yet to open up there.  A card shop is going in beside him -- that should help the flow of customers.  Right now business is pretty slow out there.  Also with the "snow-birds" coming back -- will add more activity.

Harry was telling me that 5 years ago when he opened up the shop on Southern it was considered "in the country" -- and how now on an average day he does more than what he did his first Mother's Day or Christmas Holidays days.

Marion seems to be off to a good start as far as school goes.  Seems to think that the school has better discipline this year than last -- and she was happy with what happened last year.  Each high school in Scottsdale now has a full-time police officer assigned to the school.

Mary Virginia how is school going for you???  Now are you in 10th grade this year ??? [think it would be 11th,  Roberta probably getting it wrong on purpose to encourage MV to write back . . .]  Do write me and set me straight!!!  What classes are you taking?  From what Mother said on the phone you are doing some singing here and there.  Sure wish it were possible for you to come out and do some at the senior enter.

I better bring this to a close . . . so I can get it in the mornings mail . . . .

Lots of Love,

Roberta

1980 Family Letter -Sep.5

Friday afternoon -

September 5, 1980

Deaerest Family --

I know Friday isn't the best day to start a letter for it is old news before it arrives at its destination but at least it is better than not writing at all.

Uncle Bill and Aunt Mary got off yesterday -- Dad and Grandma took them to the Columbus airport and after doing some errands inColumbus, had dinner with John and Carol and got to see their new abode which is real attractive.  Mary Virginia and I wish we could have gone too but both had school so we will be sure to get there another time soon, we hope.  I meant to thank them for the fresh tomatoes and homemade bread they sent before but forgot when I was writing -- anyway a belated thanks.  Guess Carol has been canning tomatoes -- they are lucky to have enough for so many people around here are complaining about the poor crop.  Opal and Ralph Nussbaum even got some of our little ones to can as they haven't had enough to do anything with.

Our apple crops have been more than adequate and many people have been getting and using ours.  The red ones are especially good to eat -- tart and juicy but also okay to make applesauce though not as good as the transparent.

It was good talking to Roberta and Serena on the phone Saturday and Catherine both last Friday and this day too.  Hope you (Serena and the Morgans are all feeling better -- kind of bad to not feel good on the holiday weekend).  Grandma is still planning to come out west  stopping in Phoenix and going to Madras too via Portland but no definite date has been set as far as I know.  We also suggested she might break up the trip by stopping in Chicago and staying at a motel real near the airport so that she could also visit with Serena if it would work out withSerena's time off.

She (Grandma) will have more time to think about it since the Hortons have gone.  We finally got through to Uncle Bill that they could stay over til Saturday or Sunday but by that time there were no good flight connections with vacancies and rather than take a chance on standby reservations they went yesterday but said they would look into what might suit us the next time.  They  had plenty of luggage -- Uncle Bill bought a new set of golf clubs in Lancaster plus they had clothes they had left at Marianne's when they thought they were going back there in June.  They also took some pears and other fruit with them.

Uncle Bill did get in some golfing with Everett Penn and also played with Walter Nichols and then the wives joined them for dinner.  Aunt Mary thought most of the people had aged so much except Walter.  I took her to Mothers Club and she saw several there that she hadn't seen for a long time like Vivian Cochran, Betty Gano and Rachel Mary Bernard.

Dad and Grandma didn't get back to New Vienna til almost 11 PM - Mary Virginia and I had gone to the first Band Boosters meeting of the year and also last evening was the weekly square dance plus a Republican meeting -- planning for Harsha's retirement dinner in Wilmington.

Last Saturday afternoon we went to Cincinnati, tour of the Taft Museum, around downtown and the rejuvenated Union Railway Station, which reopened a few weeks ago with lots of "little shops".  Hope they can make it.  For supper we ate at a restaurant suggested by the Sankers -- the bill for the five of us came to $17 dollar range.  We walked around the neighborhood and "Black Stallion" was playing at the movie and the admission price for the five of us at $7.00 we went "wild" and went to the movie.  All this translated into getting back to NV around midnight.  MV couldn't believe we did all this -- especially the movie for we told her we'd be back probably by 10PM.

Talked to Serena and wish we could plan a weekend to go to Chicago -- MV is involved in the band activities every weekend through the end of October so either we only have Sat. and Sunday or go without her or run almost to Thanksgiving.  But we will work something out for we do want to spend some time with her.  If only we would know more definitely about Mie Young!!!

[Love, etc.]

1970 Serena's 10th Grade Schedule at East Clinton

1970 Catherine's Postcard -Sep.1

Caption: Part of Memory Park from Pergola, Capitol Dome in distance, Salt Lake City, Utah.  The walls of City Creek Canyon have been transformed from hills covered with sage brush, greece wood and cobble stone to bowers of roses, lawns and beautiful shrubbery.  Memory Park, dedicated to the memory of Utah soldiers in the World War [One?], is now one of the beauty spots of Salt Lake City.

Aug Sept. 1, 1970

Hi!  The latest plans (subject to change of course) are that Debby and I will be leaving here next Wednesday, Sept. 9 and we plan on it taking 5-7 days [biking] depending on our speed, the weather, etc.  Dick is leaving Sunday for Columbia.  It is between Wash. and Baltimore.  Maybe he'll be home for Thanksgiving, but it's more likely I won't see him until Christmas, or Easter, or graduation, or . . . .  I don't dwell on such things while he's still here -- that's all there is so I might as well enjoy it!

Love, Catherine

1970 MV starts 1st Grade -Sep.1

1950 September Calendar

Getting a head start on September . . . .

1980 Family Letter -Aug.28

Thursday --

August 28, 1980

Dearest Family --

We have really been neglectful about writing to you all but have been able to talk to each of you on the phone at least once since we left Oregon.  We did have a wonderful trip and really enjoyed being with the Morgans and getting to know Wendy better.  She is so much less shy and more talkative than before.  Was so surprised to learn that Catherine has accepted a new position in a dentist's office starting Monday, Sept. 8th which has a good many advantages over her former one in the courthouse.  We did get a letter today written just a week ago about it (which was really slow in coming) but glad to get more details on the phone.

We also got a letter from Roberta with the letter written to Hawaii and a number of clippings enclosed.  The item on the back of one about how Oregonians are the biggest tourist spenders with Arizonians 2nd we hadn't seen before either.  At least that is the way it is to the state of Wyoming, who had done the poll.

We had looked forward to seeing John and Carol before we picked the Hortons up at the Columbus airport last Sunday but only Dad and G'ma went as Mary Virginia wasn't feeling too well.  At least they got to see the house where they will be moving this weekend -- it is real attractive.  The Hortons would like to meet Valerie but don't know whether that can be worked out before they leave -- Rob and Valerie seemed to hit off real well and Valerie is to come down to Florida at Christmas.  If the move wasn't on this weekend we would try to get them together.

Had a real nice long chat with Serena before she left the library on Tuesday while we were waiting for the plane from Chicago to Dayton.  Glad she finally got a fan -- am sure it was needed on the fourth floor.  Hope that she is soon able to find a bicycle that she has been wanting.

This past week has been HOT, but the nights have been comfortable.  At least we have no air conditioning bill to "heat us up" when it comes due each month.  Since we have been back it has also been dry which translates into hard hoeing in the garden.  Our raspberries have been doing great and have apples galore.

The Hortons have been staying close to NV, Bill has been playing some golf with Everett Penn.  Understand that they are gong to go back to LW this next Thursday.  Because they are flying on the Senior Citizen fare they cannot make their reservation more than one day in advance.

Lat night was our square dance last summer fling as the dance was at the Campground (outdoor shelter) and several of us took ice cream -- your Mother had a great batch of raspberry yogurt ice cream -- and others brought items that compliment the ice cream.  For the full picture this morning came all too fast.

M.V. started school last Monday with 7 classes in six periods (she is taking one independently (Spanish).  Tonight is the first football game.  Wednesday night the phone rang and it was LONG distance, being Kim in Korea.  It seems that Mie Young is ready to leave for NV but because she is a minor she is having trouble getting out of Korea, but Kim said she should be there (NV) shortly.  Hopefully she will not be too late in starting to school this fall.

The City of Wilmington bought the two old school buildings in Wilmington that are no longer being used.  Now it is a new governmental body that has the problem of what to do with 100-year-old plus buildings.  The library in Wilmington is still looking for a librarian.

[Love, etc.]

1990 Catherine's Letter -Aug.24

Friday, Aug. 24, 1990

Dear Mother & Dad,

Here it is my last full day in Fort Collins and I haven't even sent a post card.  I've been keeping busy during the day playing golf, going on long bike rides and of course visiting the Public and Colorado State Univ. libraries.

The bike trails here are really impressive.  It takes me almost two hours to follow the loop that goes by the Poudre River and Spring Creek.  Not only is it inaccessible by motorized vehicles but it goes under all the major streets.

We talked to Wendy last night.  She called us from Roberta's so evidently she and Roberta both made it back OK.  The next big event for Wendy is the start of Junior High on Monday.  Sid was to have picked up her schedule on Monday (the designated time for 7th graders whose last name begins with M) but due to a computer glitch her's was not ready.  So I guess they are going to try again today.

You are welcome to use the Buick while you are in Phoenix.  You could also stay at our house if you want.  Gerry will be returning to Fort Collins on the 4th so you probably will miss him if I remember your schedule correctly.

It's about time to go partake of the continental breakfast: donuts, juice, milk, tea/coffee.

See you soon!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1980 Roberta's Letter -Aug.24

[8/24/80]

Sunday Evening

10:00 P.M.

Dear Family,

Thanks alot for calling Mom . . . was that on Tuesday????  I'm just not sure where this week has gone . . . but sure has been a busy one.  I think must have been the "most on the go" as I've been all summer.  Plus really getting the work in this past week.  Both at the senior center -- and also for Harry at the flower shop . . . both the old shop and the new one.  I'd sure like to quit the flower shop job but just hate to now that I really can be of some help to Harry and really know what I'm doing.

I am able to give a good report on Buffy.  Will say something -- and thats that Marion can plan on taking hm on her next trip -- even if its just for a few days.  This dog is more responsibility than I care for.  That sure was an expensive wart he had.  They say that these high-bred dogs are alot more accessable to get all this disease stuff.  

I sure am anxious to hear more about your trip.  Also thinking about you all as you start school tomorrow.  Is ??? [Mie Young] there by now???  And did she come by bus across the US?  I'm thinking you all -- what you really need now is a high breed dog to keep you all busy and occupied!!!

It's now Monday Morning -- I've got the 700 Club on.  Have started watching that nearly every morning.  Last week the Galloping Gourmet was the host -- both him and his wife.  Really good.  That's about the only TV I watch anymore.  Soon the TV will be featuring alot of sports -- as Marion is to get in tonight.  Still haven't heard from her as to what flight.  Did have a card saying she would call on Sunday . . . but I was gone more than I was home yesterday . . . so . . . .

I've been very busy out at work trying to get some "back to school" classes going.  We are going to have Spanish, Sign Language, and photography.  Have got volunteer teachers coming in for all three of these.  Each will meet once a week -- have got some 25 interested in Spanish, 5 in Sign, and 8 in photography.  I'm making them -- or strongly encouraging them to put out a donation each class for the teacher.  Private can type of deal . . . .  Also have about 10 women interested in taking belly dancing -- but can't find a teacher for less than $50/ hour.

We are planning a big "school day" affair . . . sometime next week.  Try to get as many people as possible to dress up . . . little anklets, or whatever.  Also trying to get lots of the old "school day songs" found and printed up.  We have really had some funny ones turned in . . . and already a few good "jumping rope" songs.  We are to have a spelling bee on that day, plus some other little activities.

Marion just now called . . . coming in at 8:25 tonight.  That's a relief . . . usually she comes in the late night flights.  I've got to go.  Will write more later.  Should have more time once Marion is back.  Less messing with the dear dog.

Love,

Berta

Please!  Send back article re: wheelchair

2000 HH & Jean in Minnesota -Aug. or Sept.

On or near Lake Superior -- back of photos imprinted with Sept. 2000

1980 Catherine's Letter -Aug.21

8-21-80

Dear Mother, Dad & Mary,

Hi!  Glad to hear your trip home was satisfactory.  What did you think of the Fred Meyer store in Gresham?  We used to buy Wendy's clothes there before we started getting so many hand me downs.  Now I try to pick up things at the end of the season here that will (hopefully) fit her next year.  It's about time for the summer things to be marked way down.  Last spring I was able to get her three nice long sleeved shirts plus her winter coat.  I still need to get her a good pair of warm mittens for this winter.

I GOT A NEW JOB ! ! !  Did I tell you about the job I applied for about a month ago as a dentist office receptionist/office type job.  They hired someone else but she decided she couldn't handle the job so they called to see if I was still interested.  I said yes if they paid me $750/month and they agreed!  The other advantages are that I will work 9 to 5 and after a staff meeting held every Friday morning at 8:30 a.m.  I will get every other Friday off.  I am in hopes of getting the Fridays off that Gerry has the Saturdays off so that I can do the house work, etc. and we can have our weekends free.  I will start September 8th.  The other plus is that there is a possibility of getting bonuses depending on how much money the office takes in during a month.  If it is over a certain amount I get a %.  The gal that had the job before averaged $70/month.  Some months $150 and of course other months 0.  But the average sounds good and the dentist and his wife (I know her from Le Leche as their daughter is about the same age as Wendy) are real nice people and I think will be good to work for.  The Judge at the Court House told my boss to offer me $750 to see if I would stay but I still thought the advantages at the dentist office were much better.  I told them that after I got my appraisal certification I would come back and work for them.

Got to go.  I'll try to write more soon!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy