Mary-Louise Springhorn Rude Leidheiser
828.699.1999
mlouleid6@gmail.com

Natalie Colbert Bowers: “Just back from a week with the family in Philadelphia suburbs. Christmas with the five grandkids as well.  I heard from Joy Lines Cain.  She lost her husband Stuart in September (I was in her wedding, Stuart was a fraternity brother of Martin at Bucknell where Joy went to work after Hood). She is in Worchester, Mass. with her son and family for the holiday.  Joy has glaucoma and will move to Mass. soon to be near family. A card from Corny TenBroeck Cartwright says she and Doug are living in her family homestead in Hudson, N.Y. and are enjoying their first great grandchild, Nathan.”  Peggy Crook Arnold is still playing a little bridge.  She’s an avid sports fan (she played basketball and field hockey at Hood) so we compared notes on the NC Panthers and Chicago Bears. She keeps in touch with Joyce Miller Sammis.  Marion Decker McCormick: “Daughters and spouses and I invaded son Brett and Connie’s home, near Houston, to celebrate “Thankmas” in mid-December.  I will fly to DC in January where Lynn and Paul will take me home to PA and then to CA near Manhattan Beach for February.” Betsy Dowling Barclay had fun watching the 5 great grandchildren opening presents this Christmas. Elizabeth Flower Anton still enjoys being in her own home with her dog and garden.  A son lives nearby; his wife is a “fabulous daughter-in-law.”  Von (Yvonne) Hepburn Virtue: “Nothing of merit to report. Am still alive, active, but not kicking quite as high.”  Emmy (Emma) Jones Hann: My daughter Christine and I had an invigorating trip on the Danube last July — Romania, including a bus trip into Transylvania; Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, and Hungary.  In August I drove from Ohio back to New England for visits with several cousins and, of course, a Boston Symphony concert at Tanglewood in my home county, Berkshire, MA.  Regretfully, I couldn’t connect with Little Sister, Penny Hapgood Noepel ’54. Jodie Kellogg Weddle visited her daughter in Chicago in October.  Dee Dreller Sosin flew in from CA for five days and, together with Jodie’s Michigan niece, the four savored each other’s company as they toured city highlights (younger gals guided wheelchairs where necessary).  Peg Lewis Christensen will finally be back in her newly hurricane-proofed apartment the end of January.  Phyl Loudermill Armstrong is doing well in her Oklahoma City home and garden. Granddaughter Vivian and a friend visited for the holidays. Phyl plans to fly to Denver in May for Vivian’s high school graduation.  Mary Murrie Hardy: “Had a wonderful Christmas with my large family – 17 grandchildren (saw them all in a 2 week period) and 6 greats who were wild and crazy when Santa came!  I’m taking one grandson to see Hamilton next week; we are both excited!”  Franne Pickle Wetmore and Evelyn Bischoff Mitchell and are both enjoying their winter Florida residences.  Evelyn’s daughter and granddaughter were with her for Christmas.  Lynn serves on her association’s Welcoming Committee, but laughingly explained that she was ‘fired’ from the Fining Committee (too lenient).’   Suzanne Purdom Glezen says living in her Maryland retirement community is a little like being on a cruise ship. All her family are fortunately on the east coast. She has four great grands – all boys.  Jane Taggart Whittaker: “I was visited by all of my family at one time or another during the holidays.  Loved catching up with the grandchildren especially.”  Jane talks regularly with Hood roommate Joanne Kates Roos, who is moving to Williamsburg Landing retirement community in February.  Carol Underhill Postell calls herself “a pretty lucky old babe” happily living in her Vero Beach condo. Her three sons are scattered: Atlanta, Cincinnati, and Idaho. She was eager to learn about Jackie Wakeling, her longtime friend.  Staff at Jackie’s Retirement Community say Jackie is content in her assisted living apartment.  Nancy von der Heyde Needham was home playing scrabble with her granddaughters when I called.  Marguerite Weber Trachtman: “I will be spending Christmas with my family in Carmel and I really am looking forward to it.  After we all will spend our usual few days in Chicago.”  Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey quipped, “I may forget some things, but I have no trouble walking or talking and enjoying my condo.”  Her daughter Susan Gearey ’79, who is now a Trustee of Hood, visits often from Sarasota.  We have lost three very special classmates: Janet (Teya) Hall Mauk, Ruth Matthews Alger, and Dody (Doris) Nygren Wisnom.   Please keep in touch.

1952
Mary-Louise Springhorn Leidheiser
828.699.1999
mlouleid6@gmail.com

Carita Ackerly Warner: “Husband and I are busy with gardening, bridge and book clubs, travels and keeping up with kids and grandkids.” Dorothy “Dixie” Baird Nace has been hobbled by a pinched nerve in her back but is still working with pressed flowers and on many committees. “Can’t sit around like a pansy!” Kay Brown Gauffreau; “I am in assisted living at RiverWoods Retirement Community in Exeter, NH and like this living. No meals to get. I take part in the activities. My son, George, died at the end of November. My daughter, Liz, lives 16 miles from me.” Natalie Colbert Bowers said that Dottye Handley Ewing organized the Hood alums living in their retirement community to attend a Hood lecture. Doris Dreller Sosin: “Sara ElShafie, Jodie Kellogg Weddle’s granddaughter, is visiting me. She is beautiful, articulate and persuasive. Studying for her doctorate in Biology at UC Berkeley, she has worked with film artists to create story training workshops for science communicators.” Von Hepburn Virtue : “Alive and well in Denver. My son lives just ten miles from here. Daughter and grandchildren in CT visit twice a year.”
Emma Jones Hann and her daughter will travel to Eastern Europe on a Danube River cruise.
Joan Kniffin Orozco: “Am fine and enjoying my three bisnietos. Getting into winter here in Uruguay.” Peg Lewis Christensen: “My building at Moorings Park in Naples was evacuated May 1st for major repairs after Hurricane Irma, expected to take eight months. I’m staying temporarily in the Assisted Living building on campus. It’s been a nightmare.
I did talk with Jackie Wakeling, who has moved to an assisted living community in Woodbridge, Virginia.” Phyl Loudermill Armstrong: “March was highlighted by a visit from my 16 year old Denver granddaughter, Vivian. We enjoyed 4 days here in Oklahoma City then flew back to Denver where I stayed a week visiting with my 12 year old granddaughter, Naomi.”
Mary Murrie Hardy: “I’m getting my garden ready for a garden show in June, and then I’ll go my Lake Keowee condo. So proud of my grandson who just enlisted in the Air Force. Planning a river cruise with my 7 children and spouses to Alaska in July of 2019. Have to book early.”
Betsy Newcomer Payette: “I volunteer as a Friendly Visitor for home-bound church members and have enjoyed day bus trips to the Amish area of PA for musical theater, etc. Enjoy Mah Jongg games and am looking forward to annual trip to Grand Cayman with family.”
Ann Nygren Greenberg says she’s “older and greyer and still planting tomato plants in her garden.” Franne Pickle Wetmore will travel with a niece to Paris and then take a Rhone river cruise. Elizabeth “Bee Jay” Quillen Brustad is “hobbling along, happy to have family nearby.”
Cynthia Reinsmith Olson: “I am headed to Colorado for a granddaughter’s wedding. Two other married granddaughters live, one in California and one in England. The latter with her English husband take care of the Queen’s horses. We have a picture of him riding along side of the Queen’s carriage. Lee and I don’t travel much anymore; he uses a walker and forgets a bit.” Phyllis Salvati Kantra: “My husband Bob died in February, two days after having reached 90. Fortunately I have one daughter in the area, and live in a terrific CCRC. Many thanks, Mary-Lou for doing all that you have done, and still do.” Joan Scott Hellmuth will again this summer rent a house on Cape Cod that can accommodate her family. She enjoyed a trip to Charleston, SC with a friend. Kay Spear Feldman: “I am well and busy. Looking forward to the July birth of a great granddaughter.” Jane Taggart Whittaker mailed a happy, hello note with fun photos from an Easter gathering with family. June Zwigard Pfeifer has two girls and two grands nearby. Hiking for her and husband Walter is now somewhat limited. June has a detached retina in one eye and knee issues but an upbeat attitude. She reminded me that several Hoodlums came from her Columbia High School: Doris “Dee” Dreller Sosin, Ginny Green McDermott, Connie Woodall Fisher. Sadly, we’ve lost Betsy Cannen Martin, Lois Eldridge Funsch, Marion McDonnell Ball, and Barbara McLean Higgins.

Mary-Louise Springhorn Leidheiser
828.699.1999
mlouleid6@gmail.com

Ellin Bachrach Gordon and her husband are in good health and enjoying life. Natalie Colbert Bowers mentioned that, in the small world department, she bumped into Ann Parker Lampman’s twin brother at a Bucknell reunion. Peggy Crook Arnold:“I am fine although I don’t get around very well.  I still play bridge and go out to dinner with my friends.  Enjoyed the reunion pictures – thanks for sending them.” Other classmates sent thanks for my reunion letter including Jodie Kellogg Weddle (“my summer went well”), Carolyn Rusk (“I wish I could have attended”), Lorraine Smarsch (“arthritis limits travel”) and Carol Underhill Postell. Marion Decker McCormick:“Some frivolity for Halloween. The Montgomery Area Historical Society had a program about a gruesome 1900 murder. The house was packed. We few volunteers went in costume to pass out treats. It has been a long time since I had to find a costume and mask. Brought back memories.” Dee Dreller Sosin:“I am living in an active retirement home with stimulating classes and friendly bright people.  Hope to go to Thailand with my nephew, Alex, this December. He owns a home there and is an Asian Scholar.” Lois Eldridge Funsch: “I’m holding my own.  Get around on my motorized cart.  Play bridge several times a week. Sew stuffed kittens for children who are hospitalized.  My daughter lives 15 minutes away.  We have great times together.” Claire Enany Trimpey enjoys her oil painting (she was an art and English major) and her lovely retirement community in Wilmington, NC.  Doctor son, nurse daughter and grandchildren visit often. Joanne Kates Roos:“My favorite news was being able to visit Hood for our 65th Reunion.  My next favorite news is about my grandchildren. Billy Cole with Price Waterhouse in D.C.  Hannah Cole doing well at NC State.  My son’s daughter Holly Jo — a budding artist in Wisconsin.” Joan Kniffin Orozco:“All is going well here in Uruguay. Am very happy with my grandchildren and great grandchildren!!!” Madge Merkley Ziegler:“Jack and I are well.  Looking forward to Daufuskie Island; it snowed here (Carlisle, PA) yesterday (11/7).” Mary Murrie Hardy:“My life is busy now with the purchase of a condo on Lake Keowee in South Carolina.  My daughter Diane lives across the lake; it will be my get-away place when winter gets too cold in Pittsburgh.  Health is good except for arthritis in fingers and knees. I became a great grandmother for the 5th time!! I ordered a brick in memory of my roommate. Barbara “Cookie” Cook Oldt – hope to see it one day.” Franne Pickle Wetmore: “Reunion was a special time.  Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser and I met at the Baltimore airport.  She drove us to Hood and afterwards to my home.  She then visited dear friends in Wilmington. Emma Jones Hann kindly introduced me to the Civil War Museum right in the heart of Frederick.” Kay Spear Feldmann: “Back into my fall schedule– classes, theater, bridge, etc.  It’s nice to be busy.  No travels plans ‘til spring.  It’s a good time, national politics notwithstanding.” Joan Scott Hellmuth in Massachusetts will travel to family in Maryland for Thanksgiving.  She is involved with “Lunch and Learn” presentations offered at nearby Regis College. Doris Simpson Felton lost her husband in April.  She has happily recovered from both a strep and staph infection.  She has delightful neighbors and a daughter nearby in Brunswick, MD.  She hopes to lunch with Dottye Handley Ewing soon. Jane Taggart Whittaker had a delightful time at her grandson’s “fun and wonderful” wedding in Buffalo, NY.  He and his bride are architects who met in college.  They will live in Philadelphia. Cal Wunderly Russwick has finally retired from teaching, although she still helps one day a week correcting papers, etc.  She also volunteers at a Women’s Club.  Doug is looking at knee replacement surgery.  All 5 of their children come for a day both in the fall and spring to help with chores and to visit. Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey loves where she is. Her condo at Cortez, FL looks out on the water. Her daughter lives nearby for visits and travels together. Florida classmates survived hurricane Irma.  Peg Lewis Christensen (Naples) spent a month in her Huntington, NY apartment and Carol Underhill Postell (Vero Beach) evacuated to a relative in Palm Beach Gardens for six days, but neither had water damage.  Carol did lose two ovens from a power surge.  Lynn Bischoff Mitchell, Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey, and Franne Pickle Wetmore experienced no problems, thankfully. Keep in touch, please.

Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser
mlouleid6@gmail.com

We mourn the loss of Joan Hoffman Huebner. Carita Ackerly Warner: I’m well, busy with grandkids’ graduations here and afar!” Natalie Colbert Bowers: “Traveled to Lewisburg, Pa for Brittany Christine Bowers’ graduation (with honors) from Bucknell U – Martin’s school.  Caroline Colbert Brophy graduates from Conestoga H.S. and then heads to Ithaca College in fall.” Doris Dreller Sosin: “Hope friends will come to visit me in my new digs in the active retirement home.  Carol Cohen Friedman has two friends here who call me a ‘Hoodlum’. I certainly had no idea that Hood would live on and on in our lives.” Anne Gibson Bement: “We will go to New York to see old friends from television and Sesame Street days. Lots of time with my book club and finding good movies.  Daughter and family live in Minnesota. They visit us at Christmas time in our Miami Beach getaway; we visit them in warmer summer weather.”

Nan Fahnline Warren: “Last year I lost one of my Westies, so I got a rescue Westie to keep Nick company.  I am celebrating 50 years of membership in the DAR. I still keep active compiling treasurer’s reports, but that will end as I am losing my vision. But I can’t complain.“

Von (Yvonne) Hepburn Virtue: “Have a great time at reunion.  Too far to travel there from Denver for a short visit. Everything just fine here.  Still enjoying all the cultural offerings of the area, which is growing beyond belief. “ Barbara Hickman Reynolds P’80 will not be at reunion.  She’ll be attending a shower in Virginia for her first granddaughter to be married.  She still sees Carolyn Rusk regularly. Joan Kniffin Orozco: “Am fine and enjoying the family, playing bridge and being with friends. How the years have gone by!! Have a great time and give my love to everyone.” Peg Lewis Christensen entertained a group of 30 retirement community friends at her latest piano soiree, playing for a full hour the good ol’ tunes.  “Have fun in Frederick and give my greetings to anyone who’d remember me.” Phyl Loudermil Armstrong: “Praise the Lord, finally, my computer and mouse are working.  Health is improving (shingles) and am grateful for healing (left knee replacement). My best to all reunion attendees.” Ann Nygren Greenberg celebrated her June 2 birthday at lunch with her daughter Nancy and Peg Lewis Christensen, who still has an apartment in her hometown of Huntington, New York and visits there every year.  Madge Merkley Ziegler: “Jack and I are still on Daufuski Island.  I will not be able to attend reunion.” Dody Nygren Wisnom, still at home with husband Sam, sends greetings from Tucson. Kay Spear Feldmann: “Sorry, I am unable to be at the reunion.  As happens, some weekends are quiet and others are too full.  I will be thinking about what a wonderful four years it was.  Best to all who attend.” Jane Taggart Whittaker P’78 said there are just no friends like her Hood friends.  A grandson will join the family lumber brokerage business started by husband Frank.  She is proud of her family who continue to make the business a success. Jackie Wakeling has moved to a Bethesda retirement community.  She must use a walker all the time and for that reason cannot attend Hood Reunion.  Marguerite (Mickie) Weber Trachtman is a first-time great grandmother of twins (boy and girl).  She and her family continue to gather in Holland, Michigan for a week in the summer. Connie Woodall Fisher: “It won’t be easy to leave our 40-year-old house-in-the-woods, but it’s time.  We’ll move to a nearby retirement community.  I actually LIKE to pack things, weed out stuff  and draw floor plans. (Bill wants nothing to do with it. What a pair we make!)  My 96-year-old sister lives at Perry Farm Village in the summer, so we’ll have an instant friend–and we already know half the people there. So we’re off on a new adventure!” We stalwart six celebrated our 65^th: Natalie (Tillie) Colbert Bowers, Dottye Handley Ewing, Emma (Emmy) Jones Hann, Joanne Kates Roos, Franne (Teeter) Pickle Wetmore, and Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser,.  Beautiful weather, delicious food (yes, sticky buns), a fine college update by President Chapdelaine, and a lively reunion dinner.  Jo Kates Roos reported: “Our class raised $48,951 for our anniversary year, with 64% participating. If we add one more new donor we would have 65% for our 65th year. Many thanks for the great support.” Keep your news (and dollars) coming, please, Mary-Lou.

1952

Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser
828-693-0630
mlouleid6@gmail.com

Several 52-ers have moved to assisted living: Nancy Campbell Barrett (in Reno), Ruth Matthews Alger (in Easton, MD) and Betsy Dowling Barclay (still Townson, MD). Betsy: “I needed more help as I am on oxygen 24/7 and use a rollator most of the time. I hope to get to reunion Saturday just for the day.” Dixie Baird Nace: “Busy on six committees, including resident council and continue making/selling my pressed flower note cards. Will enter the Philadelphia Flower Show in March. Connecticut son Rich with family and Texas son with family all connect with me three to four times a year. A friend and I enjoyed Hood trips in 2014, 2015 and 2016.” Betsy Cannen Martin fell and dislocated her shoulder but is recovering. Natalie Colbert Bowers lost her dear husband Martin to complications from Parkinson’s. It was sudden; the two of them had just bought pansies for their garden the week before. Dee Dreller Sosin: “I am disposing of my collections to move into an active retirement community in March. Jody Weddle’s daughter and granddaughter will visit. Jody just lost Dick to COPD after 64 years of love, children, grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.” Anne Gibson Bement: “I just found a copy of Touchstone 1952. Nice to see those lovely young faces. No foreign travel anymore, but occasional getaways to our Miami Beach place. Our daughter’s family comes for Christmas.” Ginny Green McDermott is retired, well and active. One son lives in Short Hills, NJ; the other son, an hour away. Her last two grandchildren are in college. Gene Mauk reports that wife Janet Hall Mauk resides now in a permanent retirement home following her stroke three years ago. Gene visits every day. Their four children, five grandchildren and two great-grands all live in southern California, so they can visit. Sally Herman Lunt, M.A. from Simmons College, Ph.D. from Harvard University, and a law degree completed in her mid-60s, died in August. A feminist, psychotherapist, activist and best “posture picture” storyteller ever. Emma Jones Hann: “Went to Orlando with three of my four children and their spouses to accept a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award for Bill from the Armed Services Blood Program.” Joanne Kates Roos: “Daughter Donna is doing well after two major back surgeries to straighten her spine at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Grandson Billy Cole has a job with Price Waterhouse in Washington, DC. Sister Hannah is mentoring with a veterinarian this semester. I hope to be at our 65th.” Jody Kellogg Weddle said Dick died on her birthday and that somehow it was fitting since both of them were starting anew, but in different worlds. She feels blessed to have so many family near. Joan Kniffin Orozco: “I have two great-grandchildren, six wonderful grandchildren and my two kids…am very lucky! Time just flies too fast.” Mary Murrie Hardy: “Had a busy summer visiting family. Loved every minute at all three places. Planning trip to Florida this winter—health permitting. Need a new knee, but not quite ready yet.” Betsy Newcomer Payette enjoyed visiting the Amish area of Pennsylvania recently and went to her granddaughter’s college graduation. Ann Nygren Greenberg is still an advocate for snail mail and reading Trollope. Daughter Nancy lives nearby; son Arthur with her and Jerry. “He’s a big help.” Anne regrets not being able to travel to twin sister Dody Nygren Wisnom in Tucson. Dody, at home with husband Sam, is no longer active, but responds brightly to phone calls and relishes memories of Hood days. Franne Pickle Wetmore heads to her Florida condo for the winter. She’ll spend Christmas with her sister and family in New Smyrna, FL. She is hopeful she can drive with another, younger Hoodlum, Class of ’62, to reunion in 2017. Carolyn Rusk is delighted that the Congolese family who lived two years in her former home, donated to an organization that sponsors refugees, is now on its own with its own home. A new refugee family will be placed there soon. Kay Spear Feldmann: “Just celebrated a wonderful Thanksgiving with my blended family. I am sharing the house with my younger son, and it’s really nice to have someone here. Still driving and getting around to do my thing.” Jane Taggart Whittaker, P’78 spent a delightful month in Boulder, CO, with daughter Margie. Daughter Susan joined them, and all three had lunch with my daughter, Kathleen Rude, visiting in Boulder. Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser, bundled up happily in Illinois, visited Betsy Oehrle ’54, in from Durban, South Africa, at her brother’s Pittsburgh home in mid-November.

1952

Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser
828-693-0630 mlouleid6@gmail.com

Evelyn Bischoff Mitchell:  Moving to a lovely senior community where dear friends reside, so I know I’ll be happy there. Can’t believe that in the 45 years, we never threw anything out!  Still plan to winter in Florida. Nancy Campbell Barrett:  Moved into a lovely retirement home in Reno after 63 years in California.  Daughters Melinda and Judith helped me.   Food is delicious, the residents friendly, and staff competent and helpful. I’m finally retired!!!  My new address is 3201 Plumas St. – Apt 228, Reno, Nevada  89509-4768.  Phone: 760-742-3391. Dee Dreller Sosin:  Life is good.  I keep very busy – the gym, my garden, local and national politics, plus theatre, symphony, dance. historic preservation. Still trying to save the world.  This August, I’ll meet Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser in Asheville, NC.  On a Folk Art tour there. I’ve been a folk art collector for 60 years. Anne Gibson Bement:  I’m well but moving slowly with balance problems. Traveling only to our Miami Beach getaway or visiting daughter and family in Minnesota. Biggest accomplishment this year was completing my photography website www.annebement.com. Dottye Handley Ewing:  I’ve organized a monthly “Opera Matinee” at my retirement center.  Enjoyed newly published bios of H. Beecher Stowe, Jefferson, J Q. Adams and Ted Kennedy. I recommend them.  Staying more active with mind than body.  Emma Jones Hann:  Took my annual trip to New England. Saw my Little Sis, Penny Hapgood Noepel ’54, P’87, reunited with dozens of cousins at a Connecticut family wedding, and visited my hometown, Pittsfield, MA. Next trip – Washington, DC, on an all-woman Honor Flight for WWII and Korean veterans.  Looking forward to our 65th reunion in June 2017.  Jo Kates Roos:  My Linda’s son, Billy Cole, is graduating from the College of William & Mary.  He has excelled.  Bill would have been so proud of him.  Sister, Hannah, is an honors student in class as well as in marching band and symphony orchestra. Peg Lewis Christensen:  You will not be surprised to hear I have no tidbits for Hood Class News.  I’m sure you’ll do a lovely remembrance of Mary Sihler Sauerteig – her donation of the trumpets to the Hood Chapel organ, her love of music, her rich alto voice, her laughter, her philanthropy, her love of gardening and all creatures, great and small. (Mary died on Memorial Day; her two sons were with her.) Phyl Loudermill Armstrong:  The days are spent taking care of the necessities of home, yard, car, life, family, cat….you got the picture. Will have knee replacement in July. Mary Murrie Hardy:  Had a small stroke in April.  No after-effects, thank God.  Planning trips to Isle of Palms, SC (with most of my family), Lake Keowee, SC (to daughter), then to Michigan (to another daughter) Updating my home. By the end of my trips, I’ll want to stay home and enjoy it. Seems very hard without Bob, but I’m learning what the “new normal” is.  Betsy Newcomer Payette:  My news is always the same so I guess it’s better than having bad news! Keeping in contact with Carolyn Rusk and Barbara Hickman Reynolds P’80 on a regular basis. Kay Spear Feldmann:  Life is good; at 85 not too bad.  Still driving so can be independent.  One grandchild moving back to Baltimore; should be fun.  Planning August riverboat trip to southern France. Nancy von der Heyde Needham:  Still writing letters; don’t own a computer.  I’m a great grandmother for the second time.  Was in the hospital with cellulitis (4^th time) but I’m okay now.  I watch the Washington National baseball team.  Our class news is getting closer to the front of the magazine (smile). Connie Woodall Fisher:  Oops!  I just scrolled past old messages and there you were, with a deadline.  Sorry.  I am alive and well and will attempt to be more alert at your next posting. Dee Dreller Sosin reported: “I was so lucky to have the opportunity to meet President Obama at my daughter Leah’s home.  She and her husband had a fundraiser for the Democratic party.  Fifty of us spent the evening with this wonderful, bright, astute, and handsome man.  History of the United States honored and touched me.” We mourn the loss of Fran Brainerd Carpenter, Francine Dondershine Schwartz, Nancy Eaton, Marilyn Koch Swanson, Doris Lindblade Burn, Dottie Shillis Dowdell, Pat Wallace Wilkirson, and Mary Sihler Sauerteig, whom I’ll miss terribly.  I spent most weekends this year helping her. Moving back to Chicagoland in early fall. All four offspring and seven grands are there.  It’s time.

Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser
828-693-0630
mlouleid6@gmail.com

Evelyn Bischoff Mitchell, wintering as usual in Florida, will return to Massachusetts in May, but will move across town to Essex Village, a no-maintenance retirement community. Frances Brainerd Carpenter’s son-in-law wrote, “Fran suffers from vascular dementia. She has little short term memory; however she has a fair memory of the distant past. When I mentioned Hood College she beamed. ‘Oh yes, what pleasant times!’” Natalie Colbert Bowers “We have had a pleasant summer. Our new 11th College President, Andrea Chapdelaine, visited our retirement center in August…15 alums and five former faculty in residence plus others came for coffee and an update on plans for Hood. I’ve been asked to carry our class banner in the inauguration.” I talked to Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey who is looking forward to a trip to Peru.” Marion Decker McCormick “My three children their spouses and I traveled to Zegveld, Netherlands, where my brother, Lt. Delmar Decker, perished in 1944. He was the navigator on a B-17 shot down over Holland. The town has erected a memorial to the 10 crew members and invited their families to unveil the monument. My oldest brother, Aaron, had been killed in the invasion of North Africa. Both boys were returned in 1948 to be buried in our family plot in Pennsylvania. That was my freshman year and I went home for the service.” Doris Dreller Sosin was presented the 2015 President’s Award from the Santa Monica Conservancy. She became the co-founder of the Conservancy in 2002. Dee just returned from a trip to the Grand Tetons, Yellowstone and Glacier Park run by the Trust for Historic Preservation. “We stayed in historic lodges and hiked and breathed in deeply the many sights.” Anne Gibson Bement “I am now retired, no photography or travel. We visit our daughter and family in Minnesota and vacation in Miami Beach. Motto is keep moving.” Dorothy Handley Ewing “To my chronologically gifted classmates, I highly recommend reading Being Mortal by Atul Gawande. To those politically concerned, I’m glad to share that Frederick County finally has charter government with a female County Executive whose leadership would please our Dr. Virginia Lewis.” Yvonne Hepburn Virtue “Enjoyed a visit from my daughter and two grandchildren from Connecticut. Our Windcrest, Colorado community keeps growing. Just met a new arrival from Frederick who attended Hood.” Joan Kellogg Weddle “We live in Hagerstown, Maryland full time now to be close to family, including 11 great grands (10 boys & one girl!) Will carry half of the ’52 class banner in the Inauguration Parade. Dick and I have the usual 80’s downsides but more blessings than we deserve.” Phyllis Loudermill Armstrong “The total eclipse of the moon was grand. Shingles continues to persist. Medication is helpful and I am excited to be able to plan to fly to Denver to see grandchildren late October.” Madge Merkley Ziegler “For old people, Jack and I enjoy pretty good health, although we do see a lot of doctors.” Elizabeth Newcomer Payette “Had a great trip to Grand Cayman with my family in July. Still do Red Hat lunches with Barbara Hickman Reynolds and have weekly phone contacts with Carolyn Rusk.” Joan Scott Hellmuth “My favorite things in retirement—learning and travel. I take classes at Regis College and travel with Roads Scholars. Last trip was to St. Augustine.” Katherine Spear Feldman “We managed to marry off my grandson with much fanfare in August and that was fun. I have been dealing with torn retina which derailed some plans, but I hope that is finally on the mend.” Nan von der Heyde Needham “My sister, A. D. von der Heyde Quinn ’53, and her husband visited me this summer. My grandson is a freshman at James Madison, the 7th in our family, continuing the legacy. My granddaughter was married in Charlottesville, Virginia.” Marguerite Weber Trachtman “I’m enjoying having granddaughter Kate, a junior, here at Purdue. Next year she will be joined by her brother Alex. The family is a joy! Still active in a book club. I recommend Flame Tree Road by Shona Patel.” Connie Woodall Fisher “Bill and I had good visits with our Denver kids this summer, and feel lucky to have one kid close at hand, plus a precious 3-year-old great-grandchild and his parents. My big project involves my pedometer – to see if I can top my all-time highs.” Our heartfelt sympathy to Mary Murrie Hardy, who lost her husband (married 62 years.)

Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser
828-693-0630
mlouleid6@gmail.com

Evelyn Bischoff Mitchell proudly reported that her granddaughter has won the highest Girl Scout honor awarded and will be feted at the State Capitol in Massachusetts. That good news helps blunt the sad news of her son’s death from cancer. Betsy Cannen Martin and Jack will be moving to a retirement community in Williamsport, Md., this summer. Natalie Colbert Bowers and her son attended the elegant, farewell party for President Volpe. See how lovely our May Queen looked by checking the Hood website photos. Betsy Dowling Barclay reported, “I spent Easter weekend in St. Mary’s County, Md., visiting my extended family. A grandson is having a destination wedding in Florence, Italy in September. Unfortunately, I am unable to travel there as I am on oxygen 24/7. I’m awaiting the birth of my 1st great-granddaughter.”  Doris Dreller Sosin was honored with The President’s Award from the Santa Monica Conservancy.  Dee, with co-founder Tom Cleys, established the organization in 2002 to preserve the city’s architectural heritage. Dorothy Handley Ewing moved to assisted living after her 97-day stay in the health care unit last fall. “I’m thankful that I had super help from nieces, nephews, friends and stepdaughter. I love my apartment and the political discussions with tablemates at meals.” Von Hepburn Virtue still enjoys theater, concerts and opera in and around Denver, plus weekly visits with her son and his wife. “I’m busy with the daily stock market. Scrabble is a favorite game when I’m not reading. I speak with roomy Claire Enany Trimpey.” Emma Jones Hann is busy volunteering with hospice, serving as a Presbyterian church elder, quilting, caring for her rescue cats and researching Hann genealogy. Joan Kniffin Orozco wrote, “My biggest news is that I have two great-grandchildren. They are such fun; I’m always going over to see them, what a blessing!!” Ruth Matthews Alger has moved back to her eastern Maryland condo, P.O. Box H, St. Michael’s, 221663. Phone: 410-745-3886. Her four children all live nearby. Madge Merkley Ziegler reported, “Jack and I spend six months on Daufuskie Island, S.C. to get away from the snow and ice in Pennsylvania. Our four children and eight grandchildren visit often–the last three are college freshman.” Mary Murrie Hardy reported, “We don’t travel anymore, except to family affairs, and that’s just a short ride away. Bob has heart problems and tires easily. We are proud great-grandparents of three and grandparents of 17. Everyone is healthy and busy; we are blessed.” Betsy Newcomer Payette still sees Barbara Hickman Reynolds, P’80 at Red Hat functions and talks weekly to Carolyn Rusk. “I enjoyed visiting friends in Mississippi in March–a welcome change from our Pennsylvania cold temperatures.” Ann Nygren Greenberg is savoring forsythia blooms after the bleak winter. “No special news but my knees and elbows are still working.” Dody Nygren Wisnom has moved to an assisted living facility. Sam visits every morning to share breakfast with her. Mary Sihler Sauerteig joined your reporter for Easter brunch, does Pilates weekly, volunteers at the Brevard Arts Council, the Brevard Music Center and Philharmonic Orchestra. Kay Spear Feldmann is awaiting the birth of her first great- grandchild in June and another grandchild’s marriage in August. “Excitement! At 84, I feel lucky to be in good health and able to participate in life.” Jane Taggart Whittaker, P’78 has moved from her beach home built by Frank’s father in 1948, to an apartment in Brandywine Senior Living 143 Franklin Ave, Pennington, NJ. 08534. Phone: 609-730-1401. “It’s like coming home.” (Frank and Jane had lived in Princeton for 25 years). She now is near two sons and daughter Sally. Nancy von der Heyde Needham has resigned as a hospital volunteer after 29 years.  “Keeping the home fires burning. Lots of company, mostly college kids. They love the beach (Virginia Beach).  I have 17 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Favorite pastime is fishing off my dock. Talk to Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey, P’79 (my roommate along with Ginny Green McDermott).” Jackie Wakeling is recovering, now at home, from a broken pelvis. She and Jack hope to move to a retirement community in June. Heartfelt sympathy to classmates who have lost their husbands: Dee Dreller Sosin (Rolfe E. Wyer), Ruth Matthews Alger (Shirley Alger), Franne Pickle Wetmore (Orville Wetmore) and to the family of Nancy Howk Forman. I have a new right knee. I joined Natalie Colbert Bowers and Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey, P’79 at Hood for the dedication of the beautiful fountain donated in Jeanne’s honor by her children. Keep in touch!

1952
Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser
mlouleid6@gmail.com

Evelyn Bischoff Mitchell was summering in Massachusetts, visiting Maine son, fighting brain cancer.  She recommended the “cruise” on the Cape Cod Canal. Nancy Campbell Barrett said, “I am in charge of my siblings’ annual get-together and thinking of a fall tour of Boston.” Natalie Colbert Bowers and Martin moved to a Frederick retirement community. She is preparing her house for sale and raved about the Brodbeck Hall renovations. Marion Decker McCormick volunteers for the Montgomery Area Historical Society and daughter Paula visited from Wyoming. Daughter Lynn is moving her office from LA to D.C. The family plans to invade son Brett’s Texas home to celebrate Thankmas in mid-December. Dee Dreller Sosin returned from India with a lust for adventure travel. “I was captivated with the religions, temples, food, costume and history. While I can still manage a tough trip, I signed up to see Egypt this October,” said Dee. Lois EldridgeFunsch wrote, “Bill and I took a short trip to the Eastern shore. My Boston family came for Mother’s Day and we went to Longwood Gardens. They took me around in a wheelchair; another excursion to Charleston, S.C., to visit other son and family.” Claire Enany Trimpey was widowed in 2009 and moved to an assisted living community in Wilmington, N.C., near two of her daughters. She enjoys bridge and art classes. Nan Fahnline Warren wrote, “I am just here and loving my pups, Angel and Nicky. They keep me going–four walks a day.” Anne Gibson Bement said, “Reed and I visited our daughter’s family in Minnesota, went to Miami Beach and will summer for two weeks in Maine. After my last Haiku piece, my inspiration left me. Now I am busy with book club, luncheons and movies.” Yvonne Von Hepburn Virtue wrote, “I am in great health and keep busy. The only problem is being widowed. I moved closer to my son to an Erickson independent living community in a Denver suburb. We have wonderful theaters. Pat Sabin Sprague ’54 drives here to attend theater and concerts with me when weather permits.” Joanne Kates Roos said, “My left hip replacement is a year old and I am doing great! Linda’s son Billy will be a sophomore at the College of William and Mary. His sister Hannah was inducted into the Tri-Honor Music Society. She is taking riding lessons on her own horse Luna, who has captured our hearts.” In June Peg Lewis Christensen lunched in Long Island with Ann Nygren Greenberg. Doris Lindblade Burn is a resident at Van Dyk Manor in Montclair, N.J. Severe arthritis in her legs keep her wheelchair bound but her spirit is unbounded. “My happy news is I have twin great nieces!” Madge Merkley Ziegler returned to Carlisle on June 20 after seven months on Daufuskie Island, S.C.  “Jack and I are able to ambulate to restaurants. Three grandsons graduated high school this year.” Cynthia Reinsmith Olson said, “I spent only freshman year at Hood. To my parent’s dismay, in 1949 I married Jack Forrest, but he died in his mid-50s. Our two children lived independently so I found a job that developed into being an executive meeting planner with Ciba-Geigy Corp., now Novartis, which I loved. Retired at 65, I became reacquainted with Lee Olson; we married in 2000 and traveled extensively. Of late, we stay pretty close to home.” Carolyn Rusk reported, “On June 14, my family’s home, deeded to the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, was consecrated to its new role as temporary shelter for refugee families. The first, a Congolese family–the father a pastor, wife and three children–are to arrive in August.” Kay Spear Feldmann wrote, “My grandson Norman finally gave his girl a ring and set a wedding date. His father will be 60 in August.” Jane Taggart Whittaker, P’78 relishes summer when her six kids and their families visit her at the Brigantine beach. Connie Woodall Fisher wrote, “I am making a plug for regular exercise–both mental and physical. I work with a trainer, do yoga and walk. For the brain, try lumosity (lumosity.com). I am quite sure my Parkinson’s would have advanced farther and faster if it were not for exercise.” Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey, P’79 was thrilled that her children are honoring her with a campus fountain located between Alumnae Hall and Hodson Science and Technology Center. Our sympathy to the families of Mercedes Gery Smith, Barbara Hamilton Meyer and Carolyn Leiner Bage. Mary Sihler Sauerteig and I are enjoying summer concerts at Brevard Music Center.

“We seem to be in repair mode these days.”  A quote from Connie Woodall Fisher, who had successful cataract surgery while Bill had a 99 percent blocked carotid artery fixed. “The Colorado family visited.  One daughter lives nearby as does our great-grandson, his parents and my 93-year-old sister.” Nancy Campbell Barrett had a total shoulder replacement in August. It was so successful that she is having the other one done next year. “Daughter Betsy who lives with me took over and I am having the whole family (20 people) for Thanksgiving,” said Nancy. Joanne Kates Roos had “the best orthopedic surgeon in Newport News” operate on her arthritic left hip. She was using a walker several hours after the operation and went home the next day. Mary Siher Sauerteig said, “In June my heart went into atrial fib. A month later I had cardioversion with Lou Leidheiser close by. Sinus rhythm returned and is still holding. Son Bob came from Alaska in October to drive me to Philly for my oldest granddaughter’s wedding and to spend time with son Bill and family.” Kay Spear Feldman was “recuperating from a minor accident at home, but it is slow and the bones are old. She expected to return to normal activities soon.” Other classmates have downsized. Urania Courlas Constandy said, “My husband, now 92, and I, moved to nearby Brandywine Seniors. Our granddaughters age 17 and 15 are golfers and tennis players and can beat Nick and me now. I am busy with church seniors and two women’s clubs.” Nancy Oxholm Reid and husband George moved two years ago into Brandon Wilde, Augusta, Georgia’s Life Care Community. “We stopped by Hood after a hostel at the Peabody Institute and it refreshed my memory of our happy times there. Our one child George III and wife live in St. Louis. We relish every visit,” said Nancy. Natalie Colbert Bowers reported, “no real news; just getting ready for all of the family and Thanksgiving!” Dee Dreller Sosin said, “I have enjoyed and loved three generations of Weddle women–Jody, daughter Judy, and now granddaughter Sara El Shafie who was in town at a Paleantology Convention. I also saw Carol and Burnam Friedman in La Jolla.” Lois Eldridge Funsch wrote, “Our grandson was happily married in September. It was a beautiful beach wedding in the Outer Banks. Sadly, our son Doug died unexpectedly July 29. Still recovering from the shock and sadness, but wonderful memories sustain us.” Anne Gibson Bement reported, “Our daughter’s family visited us in San Francisco with their 4 and 6-year-old boys. I saw my old Sesame Street friends in New York.  We are planning a Panama Canal cruise in November and hoping to spend Christmas with family in our Miami Beach place.” Dottie Handley Ewing is “volunteering, attending concerts, reading and lamenting over politics. I visited Elva Remsberg Pepper ’51 in Pennsylvania and attended the Hood organ concert in honor of Bill Sprigg (present in a wheelchair). I am taking a course at Fredrick Community College and still enjoy driving country roads.” Barbara Hickman Reynolds said, “Bill and I lunched with Jack and Betsy Cannen Martin in August to celebrate their 60th and our 59th wedding anniversary. Betsy was my Matron of Honor. Emma Jones Hahn was in Hagerstown recently and Bill, Betsy Payette and I met her for Sunday brunch.”

Jodie Kellogg Weddle reported, “After 31 marvelous winters in Big Pine Key, Fla., we have decided to stay in Maryland this year. We will miss our friends and church but we will be able to watch our 10th great-grandchild (all boys but one!) through his first 6 months.” Joan Kniffin Orozco wrote, “I’m well down here in Uruguay, playing bridge and seeing friends and family. I have a 7-month-old great-grandson and will have a great-granddaughter next month. What a pleasure! Phyllis Loudermill Armstrong said, “I’m flying to Maryland to visit my sister. Choir is going to Italy in June 2015. The Piece de Resistance will be singing a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.” Mary Murrie Hardy gained a new great-granddaughter in July and a grandson in August. “The count is now 17 grandchildren and two greats. Bob and I, like the old Timex commercial, keep on ticking.” Betsy Newcomer Payette is busy with church activities, doctor’s appointments, bus excursions and playing Mah Jongg. She talks weekly with Carolyn Rusk. Janet Rowe Smith said, “David died in December 2012 after 60 wonderful years of marriage and 14 retirement years of mentoring inner city children, tennis, sailing, and travel. I communicate infrequently with Libby Floyd Davis in Coronado, Calif.” Jane Taggart Whittaker is well although her older son in New Jersey, head of the family business, is battling colon cancer. She will join family in Princeton, N.J. for Thanksgiving. Nan von der Hyde Needham reported, “My 17 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter keep me involved.  Recently, I was honored by the Virginia Health Care Association as Adult Volunteer of the Year.  I play bingo with the residents. Hood roommate Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey and I talk on the phone.” Marguerite (Mickey) Weber Trachtman said, “My oldest grandchild Elizabeth, married in October at a beautiful ceremony with the entire family present. I love my book group, and I am taking a class. Grandchild Kate is a freshman at Purdue.” Jeanne Zimmerman Gearey wrote, “I keep busy with bridge, movies, theater and dinners with my friend John. I am going to my daughter Susan ’79 and husband’s for Thanksgiving in St. Helena, Calif.” I am sad to report Grace Laubach’s passing. Her online obituary is at Patriot-News, July 23, 2013. Sorry to edit your news to meet magazine word limitations. Keep in touch.