1958
Maggie Garis Kellow
414.418.5782
maggiehood1958@gmail.com

Cynthia Williams Bohaker reports that everything is well in Maine. She recently enjoyed the family for 2 weeks at a cottage at Goose Rocks Beach, Kennebunkport, Maine. The next “family bonding” will be in Phoenix over Christmas and New Year. Sue Brown Melech says Bob and she are healthy. They are madly trying to learn Spanish in planning their final “big” trip this September to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos. Their 5 grandsons ages 21, two at 17 and two at 13 are all OK. They spend January through April in Florida to get out of the Rochester winters. Anne Walton Merriken says that they have survived the 84 tornadoes and flooding that Oklahoma experienced in May. Their bright spots were visits from son Stuart in June and Jim and family in July. Carolyn “CYP” Patton Meyer had no special news but she is still going through “stuff” to hopefully move later this year into an apartment. She remarked that after a cool June, they are having unrelenting 90degree temperatures. She says, “Remember being in the dorms with no air conditioning?” Sara Lea Callaway Redmon says that since 2018 their plans have centered around Carl’s heart and resulting surgery. After weeks of “hurry up and wait” they got an appointment at the Cleveland Heart Clinic in Ohio. It was February when they made the first trip to Cleveland and the chill factor was -11 (not what their southern blood was used to!). They felt very blessed that he was accepted to have a TAVR procedure. (This is surgery to replace a valve without open heart!) It was May before it could be scheduled but everything went perfectly. Blessings upon blessings! Diana Hagenbarth Russo is spending the summer in the cool mountains of North Carolina. Sadly, she relates that her husband Fred passed away in December and says that she is more than lonely. Thankfully, she has a good church family and great neighbors. She says, “God loves me/you more than we can ever imagine. (I can certainly relate to that, Diana). Marthanne Stephens Smith reports that there is nothing earth shattering there. Just a quick trip to Vermont to watch grandson, Andrew, graduate from high school. Granddaughter, Allie, is now happily married to a great young man and has precious rescue Heinz variety dog! Marthanne is still taking enrichment classes at the local community college. She and Duff are still determined to NOT join the ranks of a retirement home! Anne “Ricky” Merrick Vosti had nothing new to report, but says, “Life in California continues to be costly, frantic and between earth quakes, fires and politics, one never knows what to expect.” Carole Moore White’s youngest grandchild graduated in May from the University of Richmond. Fritz is still in remission but has mid stage macular degeneration, so life has changed for them. Carole has early stage pulmonary fibrous. She is glad that Mayo is close by and their 3 daughters live in Florida. Jo Olmstead Witherington has traveled to Northern Italy to Cinque Terre and the Dolomites. She went from snow in the Dolomites to 90degrees in Florida. In August, she is headed to the Baltic Sea starting in Stockholm and ending up in Copenhagen. Somehow, she still manages to sing and present narrations of poems, spoken word and monologues with a large group of 150-300 and a small group of Vintage, seasoned, aged people. Joan Bennett Moran and Carol Horwath Klecka were delighted to host President Andrea Chapdelaine, Nancy Gillece ’81 and director of alumni and constituent engagement, Kellye Greenwald ’86 in March. Carol has moved to a large, newer facility where she receives more support. It is Tuscan Gardens of Venetia Bay. Carol Huelson Warrington and husband Bob were in Venice for 6 weeks in spring but have returned to Mays Landing NJ for continuing medical care. Jeb reports that her health is considerably improved as a result of months of medication and physical therapy. She still has essential tremor 24/7 but has regained strength and improved balance. She looks forward to having her FIRST great grandson visit in July. He joins 2 great granddaughters. Life in Wisconsin is about the same for me, Maggie Garis Kellow. My main problem is osteoporosis. I try to keep active with senior center activities, family gatherings, church events, etc. Thanks to everyone who responded to my request for news so promptly. Prayers and blessings for contentment in whatever our future may bring. Love and Good Health to everyone.

Marilyn “Maggie” Garis Kellow
414.418.5782
maggiehood1958@gmail.com

Cynthia Williams Bohaker just got home from 3 weeks in Phoenix spending the holidays with family. Jane Walton Godfrey writes that they have been blessed with their first Great Grandchild! Elijah is now 3 months old, adorable and a joy to all. Jane and Dick are now known as “THE GREATS.” She reports that the rest of the family is OK too. Sally Crockett Martin says that after many great family trips over the decades and years in between living in Boulder, she took the risk and moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico. She found a lovely house, loves the Southwest, the arts, architecture, and variety of cultures.  She feels that it is a wonderful place to spend the “remaining years.” Jeb Bennett Moran says that the results of her fall last May are still with her but are diminishing slowly.  She continues to walk with a cane, is seeing a new neurologist and is confident of a full recovery. She had fun visiting her son’s family in Atlanta for Thanksgiving and to have them at her home for Christmas. Jeb sends news that Carol Horwath Klecka has suffered severe back problems and pain that are debilitating. Following hospitalization and rehab, she moved to a senior living facility in Venice. Jeb has visited her 4 times and observes that Carol is content and settling into her new home and routine. They also had the pleasure of a visit from Hood’s Emily VanderWoude in December.   Jeb also reports that Carol Huelsen Warrington has had to deal with several serious medical problems in the past year. The latest was a fall when she suffered a break to her femur. She and husband Bob moved to Mays Landing NJ where they are close to family there. They are planning to come to their winter home: in Venice FL the end of January. Nancy Drew Picard and Howard have moved to Blacksburg VA………home of VA Tech where Nancy’s Dad was a student when it was all military. She says it feels like coming home. They live at Warm Hearth Village in a 2 bedroom townhouse and love it! Nancy “Bunny” Potter Richardson and Brian have moved to Southport NC. Brian is doing well after a mini stroke in September. Marthanne Stephens Smith is still fighting any thoughts of going to a retirement home. She complains much to husbands Duff’s chagrin about cleaning, laundry and COOKING, but will carry on!  She still enjoys classes at a nearby community college and recently had a lovely week in Vermont visiting daughter Julia and family. Mary Allen Reynolds continues to enjoy museums, concerts, lectures, gym and shopping.  She attended the US Tennis Open in NYC last summer with her son. They had a great time attending matches including Venus vs. Serena. In September, she traveled the Columbia River to study Lewis and Clark’s mission and in March she plans to travel to Africa and the Edinburgh Festival in August. Anne “Ricky” Merrick Vosti says life goes on with the usual challenges of a large family and aging. They all miss Ken every day but are slowly learning how to move on to a new path in the hopes of remaining useful. She has a dear friend at church who is almost 104, drives herself, volunteers at the hospital twice a week, adds spirit to life and is a definite a “role model.” Sara Lea Callaway Redmon writes – “Our calendars seem to be full of medical appointments! Carl and I will be going to the Cleveland Clinic for him to get a new heart valve. He is looking forward to having more energy and riding his motorcycle!! In October we did attend his 50th dental class reunion in Memphis. We enjoyed our stay at the Peabody (with the famous ducks!) and touring new medical colleges there.” I, Maggie Garis Kellow, really appreciate receiving news in such short notice. Life in WI is much slower, but I am thankful that I am still able to live independently. I don’t travel much, but did visit my sister and brother-in-law in Florida last July………..church and the senior center, plus activities here at my condo keep me as busy as I care to be involved. Hope we all have a Happy, healthy 2019.

1958
Marilyn Garis Kellow
262-334-5782
maggiehood1958@gmail.com
Susanne Smith Evans was sidetracked from attending our 60th by a heart process requiring a pacemaker. Her healing is going well.
Jane Walton Godfrey and Dick were married 60 years in December and are expecting their first great grandchild in August. They are still involved with Odyssey Church which provides for adults with special needs.
Heard from Carolyn “Cyp” Patton Meyer, but she said there was really nothing new to report.
Mary Allen Reynolds has recovered nicely from knee surgery. She has several trips planned…..flying to Seattle for her son’s wedding, attending the US Tennis Open in NYC in August, and a trip on the Columbia River in September.
Penny Adams Rogers is in Boston for the summer (maybe fall) and would love to hear from classmates, especially those in the area. Call her at 808-428-4034.
Anne “Ricky” Merrick Vosti is thankful that her family lives close by to help her as she progresses on a new challenging path without Ken. She was pleased to have Dr. Chapdelaine and Nancy Gillece visit in April during their trip to CA. She was pleased to hear how Hood is doing in this competitive college world.
Carole Moore White and Fritz are enjoying living near 3 of their girls. Carole has a new hip and Fritz is in remission (just pray it stays that way). They feel fortunate their primary care physician is from Mayo, just 15 minutes away.
Jean Olmstead Witherington wrote from Tokyo, Japan. Upon returning home, she will be rehearsing for a classical and patriotic concert.
As I write this news, our 60th reunion was held last weekend. Joan “Jeb” Bennett Moran was “volunteered” to be the reporter. She managed to send the following news before my deadline:
Reunion Weekend 2018 was spectacular. The beautiful campus, varied and interesting activities, and ample food and drink…. but best of all, we were able to visit with classmates and staff we hadn’t seen for 10 years or more!
Some of our classmates said that they were transferred back to “student days” when walking onto the campus. Our experiences, including President Chapdelaine’s update on future plans, provided the same sense of pride we had as students & now have as alumnae.
The eight 1958 class members attending were Eleanor Baumgart Ritchie, Joan Bennett Moran, Sara Lea Callaway Redmon, Joan C. Enterline, Carol Horwath Klecka, Margaret Jacob Jones, Virginia Manning Peltzer, & Ruth Wood Weaver. Sara Lea & Joan Enterline did an outstanding job of chairing class activities. Carl Redmon was a wise, wonderful companion for all of us.
A special time occurred Saturday when we shared our post-Hood lives with each other. Each of us has experienced 60 years differently. The 31 deceased members of our class were remembered.
The following are individual comments written in response to Jeb’s request for personal statements:
Eleanor Baumgart Ritchie: “Enjoying life with house renovations & traveling. Have become a docent for Un. of MD Environmental Science Visitors House.”
Jeb Bennet Moran: “Delighted to be back at Hood.” Stealing & sharing Sara Lea’s observation: “The campus looks different when you walk with a cane, look for elevators & sit down to rest at every bench!”
Sara Lea Callaway Redmon: “We all had a great time! Carl and I drove 500 miles to see the beautiful campus, visit with classmates, & share memories. Our visit reminded me of the value of my education.”
Joan Enterline: “Our group of nine was small in number but we had fun.”
Carol Horwath Klecka: “Reunion was fantastic! (I suggest) when someone speaks to a group, a microphone should be used as it’s almost impossible for older people to understand.”
Margaret “Peg” Jacob Jones: “It was great to see the six other who made it. Weather was great…Music was loud (making it) hard to converse at dinner…but well worth the trip here!”
Ruth Wood Weaver: “Since the 60th reunion was a one-time event, I gave up hosting the quarterly NC Goat Association meeting at my house. But, reconnecting with the Hoodlum girls was a greater opportunity.”
Virginia “Ginny” Manning Peltzer granddaughter drove her from Warrenton, VA, for the Alumnae Luncheon on Saturday. It was a pleasant surprise and real treat to catch up on her news.
The final amount of our class gift is not yet known yet. However, we purchased, placed, and viewed the brick our class dedicated. It read “IN CELEBRATION OF OUR 60TH REUNION & HOOD’S 125TH YEAR FROM THE CLASS OF 1958…JUNE, 2018” Seeing it made us proud!

Marilyn Garis Kellow
262-334-5782
maggiehood1958@gmail.com

Cynthia Williams Bohakersays this past year has been interesting, but all is well. Her daughters live in Sparta NJ, Kyoto, Japan, and Phoenix AZ. Her grandchildren range from 1 to 32 years of age. Susanne Smith Evans says that the lower Connecticut River and Long Island Sound are lovely at this time of year and she is enjoying some late Fall sails. She is also involved in the Holiday House Tour in Essex. The town’s architecture represents the 1700 period up to today. Sue no longer recognizes the word “old”. She says “vintage” sounds so much better!!! Jane Walton Godfrey says that everything is OK. She and Dick will be married 60 years in December. She still remembers how she had to get permission from Dr. Truxal so that she could return to Hood to finish her senior year……how times have changed!!! Susan Brown Melech would like for classmates to let one another know if they are planning to attend our 60^th reunion in the Spring of 2018. Anne Walton Merriken had a second total knee replacement in July. She has had great results and thankful that she has only 2 knees. They plan to go to Alabama to celebrate their granddaughter’s 5^th birthday. Carolyn “Cyp” Patton Meyer’s husband, Richard, died of congestive heart failure in March, after being in Hospice since last November. She is busy settling his estate and downsizing. Joan Bennett Moran visited family members in MD and GA this summer. She continues to be involved in church and community activities and welcomed her 3^rd precious great-granddaughter, Nikoletta Tsapakis, in March. She sends news that Carol Horwath Klecka’s son Mark has moved back to Florida from Chicago. She is happy to have some family close by. Hurricane Irma gave all of them a scare, but they experienced only strong winds and power outages. Jeb suggests that our class should consider purchasing a Hood brick in memory of our deceased members. Mary Allen Reynolds’ knee surgery went well. She is now busy with household projects, making her bathroom accessible and a complete redo to her bedroom. She says, “Shopping on the net makes choices much easier. You can design a whole room without spending a penny.” Elly Baumgart Ritchie has been busy traveling this year. A trip to Canada for the graduations of 2 grandsons….one college and other high school. A trip to Lynchburg VA and several to NJ Shore, including one there in February with Joan Enterline to celebrate her 80^th. Penny Adams Rogers relates the sad news that her husband passed away on June 19^th of pancreatic cancer.  She wrote from Boston while spending time with children and friends on a trip to NYC Montreal and Halifax. The trip was a healing gift and a wonderful way to be together and celebrate her husband’s life and go again to his favorite musical, Hamilton. She will be headed to visit in FL before going home to Hawaii. Jenny Krohn Rose’s grandson Adam received his master’s degree in technical math at UC Davis and now is studying for a PhD. Her granddaughter Ana will graduate from high school this spring. Their Portuguese Water Dog, Rosie, is entered in 2 AKC rally events in November, when they hope she will get her AKC companion dog degree. Carol Huelsen Warrington and husband Bob are doing well and are extra busy selling their home in Duxbury MA and moving to May’s Landing in NJ. Summers will be spent there near family and winters will be in Venice FL where she sees Joan Bennett Moran and Carol Horwath Klecka. I had a nice visit on the phone with Sara Lea Callaway Redmon. She has accepted to chair our 60^th reunion next spring and hopes everyone is excited and planning to attend. She is anxious to tour the campus and downtown Frederick. She wants to encourage everyone to fill out the “Data Form” and to contribute your pledge for our class gift. As the time approaches, I would be happy to keep you up-dated via email as well as our class website as to those of you who plan to attend. It would be great to have a nice gathering. It is so much more fun and meaningful to see familiar faces on “our campus” from the1950’s. I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year…………..Maggie

Marilyn Garis Kellow
262-334-5782
maggiehood1958@gmail.com

I am saddened to report that we have lost 3 classmates since last fall. Betty Walsh Suto passed away in late 2016 and Emily Joyce Sanders in early 2017. Julee Moser, daughter of Betsy Smith Moser P’92 wrote that “the best mother and friend we have ever known” passed away May 9, 2017. In February, Polly Sherman Leigh moved from Hawaii to a retirement community in Carlsbad, CA. She is enjoying being close to family and a good friend. Fitness classes, educational speakers, the symphony, a big band production, live stage shows, wine tasting and a trolley ride around San Diego, which included Coronado, are among her new activities. Sue Brown Melech and husband Bob spend January through April in St Petersburg FL at the Hollander Hotel and would like to get to together with any classmates who may be in that area during those months. Jeb Bennett Moran reports that she along with Carol Horwath Klecka and Carol Huelsen Warrington had an unexpected treat on March 16^th. President Andrea Chapdelaine and her father joined classmates and significant others for breakfast at the Plantation Golf and Country Club in Venice FL. Sara Lea Callaway Redmon got the brave idea to have the first ever family reunion. It turned out Great!!! About 65 people from 22 months on up from 5 different states. Mary Allen Reynolds just returned from visiting gardens in England, including Sissinghust. She plans to go to her granddaughter’s high school graduation in Seattle. She continues to exhibit for the Ikebana International Chapter at the local garden center and attends national meetings. Knee replacement surgery is in her plans in the future. Bunnie Potter Richardson wrote the sad news that her brother Ken and his wife have passed away recently. Ken was married to Joey Liehmann who was a member of our class for our first 2 years at Hood. She then went to the University of Maryland to be with Ken. Penny Adams Rogers says Hawaii is still home but does travel to see family on the mainland. Last May they met family in NYC to celebrate her 80^th and saw Hamilton with the original cast. They then drove back across the country just for fun and stayed with family in Portland, Oregon. Remained in Hawaii for the summer and then to Calgary for cooler weather. November, December and January were spent in Boston with family. It was nice to see fall, Thanksgiving, and Christmas back in New England where she grew up. Jenny Krohn Rose and Shep are still in Henderson, Nevada training their Portuguese Water Dog, Rosie, and entering her in AKC agility and obedience trials. Jenny is happy that at 80 she can still run around an agility course. Marthanne Stephens Smith writes that her 2 daughters have adopted older dogs from kill shelters, (but they don’t want to adopt us)!!!!! Both dogs are adorable, a white husky and an old black and grey Cairn. She is still going to classes at the community college, enjoying living in their townhouse and reads all the time (recommends “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles). Anne Merrick Vosti sends the sad news that husband Ken passed away April 26^th. Thanks to an incredible hospice organization, Mission Hospice, she could have him home with many visits from her large family. She has wonderful memories of where their 58-year partnership which started when they met at Hood. Jo Olmstead Witherington has traveled this year to Easter Island and the Patagonia area of Chile and Argentina. She has just finished singing in 3 concerts within a week and is now working on Titanic and some of the works of Rutter. After a cruise to Alaska she plans to stay home for a few months. Life in WI has been relatively quiet. My life focuses around family, especially my 4 grandchildren. Rickey (25) is in a doctorate program at U of Illinois, Gracie (22) graduated last December from U of WI Green Bay, Julia (21) will be a senior at Kent State (spent last semester in Florence, Italy), and Elena (17), a high school senior, will probably be headed for Miami of Ohio after graduation. Thanks for all the news. Our numbers are fewer each year, but it is a blessing to hear from so many………….Love and prayers, Maggie

1958

Marilyn Garis Kellow
262-334-5782
maggiehood1958@gmail.com

Cynthia Williams Bohaker relates the sad news that husband Dick had not been well much of this year and passed away in September. They were married 57 years but met in high school, so were together for a long time. Her three daughters have been great support. Sue lives in Sparta, NJ. Linda is teaching at a local college in Kyoto, Japan. Diane lives in Phoenix where the family will be gathering for Christmas and New Year. Cynthia still works for a local accountant during tax season. Susanne Smith Evans’ two sons and families were with her for Christmas. She says all is calm and hope it stays that way. Sue Brown Melech and husband Bob moved across the street in Rochester, NY. They will be spending four months in St. Petersburg, FL, this year, staying at the Hollander Hotel, a small boutique hotel originally built in the 1930s with many of the original architectural and design features preserved. Kind of like living at “Cheers”—everyone knows your name and is very friendly. They take advantage of the local library for reading material, travel to Tampa for the Yankees spring training games, enjoy long walks, fitness classes and generally eat more than necessary. They would love to meet with other Hoodlums in Florida anytime January through April. Jeb Bennett Moran had a fabulous trip to London in August, courtesy of Don, to celebrate her 80th birthday. Son Mike took the family to St. Thomas for Christmas so they could celebrate for the second time. She gets together with Carol Horwath Klecka for lunch almost every month. Also sees Carol Huelsen Warrington sometimes, whenever she and husband Bob “winter” in Florida. Jeb feels so blessed to be healthy and pretty active, mostly with volunteer and church activities. Lots of travel is still at the top of her “bucket list.” Sara Lea Callaway Redmon says the past several months have been a roller coaster ride. Carl was in a serious car accident. He suffered six broken ribs, a fractured shoulder blade and head injury. All is healing nicely but slowly. They are looking forward to spring and some nice trips in their motorhome. Diana Hagenbarth Russo is going to be a happy 80 year old, which started with spending Christmas in Paris with family. She and husband Fred have been married 45 years, and are both well and happy. Life is good for them, Florida in the winter and the North Carolina mountains in the summer. Marthanne Stephens Smith continues to keep busy with classes at the local community college, Curves four to five times a week and biking. She and husband Duff are “getting a vicarious thrill” out of following their 6’10” grandson, Warner, in his study for a year with Johns Hopkins in Nanjing, China! Little Chinese girls follow him around and everyone says: “you are so tall!” Penny Hunt Solum had an extraordinary 80th birthday celebration this summer with time in the south of France and in London with family, plus a fantastic birding adventure to a tented camp in the Darien forest of Panama. She saw many good birds and was very fortunate to see a very rare and elusive bird, the massive and handsome Harpy Eagle! It was a day’s trek to do so with both a long river ride in a dugout canoe plus a forest walk! Awesome! Anne “Ricky” Merrick Vosti is fully involved with caregiving and nursing as Ken’s health declines. She highly recommends a book titled “Meditations for Caregivers” by Barry Jacobs and Julia Mayer. Her 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild are all over the U.S. but continue to “pop in” whenever they are close by. Her family is very supportive. Jo Olmstead Witherington was busy with a Women’s Ensemble Concert in November and a big Christmas Concert in December plus other volunteer singing events. She has been busy learning to play Mahjong and has a couple of trips planned for 2017. During 2016, I experienced two surgeries, the first in June to repair a tendon which was about to rupture in my right wrist and another in November to remove a benign cyst in my throat. Had physical therapy through October for the wrist. Really minor inconveniences as I reach my 80th onDec. 20. Everything seems fine as the holidays approach. As I submit this news, the temperature is to plunge to -12 tonight! Hope you all had a merry Christmas. Have a healthy 2017…Maggie Garis Kellow.

Penny Rogers Adams and husband had just returned to Hawaii after a month long visit to Florida, NY and Oregon.  They saw the musical Hamilton while in NYC and said it was fabulous.  They are very involved in UH Cancer Center Medical School as volunteers.  Penny still goes overseas with the State Department, but not as often, says “jobs are not really desirable….it is not like the old days.”  One of their daughters lives in Hawaii so they have three grandchildren to enjoy often.

Kay Stubblebine Cox and Dave are “peachy keen.”  They celebrated Dave’s 80^th with their 2 sons and wives by taking a river cruise down the Danube from Budapest to Nuremberg, Germany on the Viking Ship Jarl.  Kay recently found the “Sing a Song to Your College” record which was sponsored by the class of 1958 and sure did enjoy it!

Some friends took Joan Enterline back to Frederick this spring.  The campus was blooming and brought back memories!  They also enjoyed visiting the boutiques in the downtown area.

Susanne Smith Evans was planning some stateside trips to Maine and the Vineyard.  Her granddaughter Emily graduated from Wheelock and has a teaching job in Boston.  She says, “Don’t know about you but I am ignoring the calendar (mainly because I don’t want to believe it)!”

Anne Walton Merriken celebrated her 80^th at Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Alabama, with sons and family.  They try to spend as much time as possible with their 3 year old granddaughter.  They had a mild winter in OK, but had too many tornadoes in May.

Peg Jacobs Jones does not feel her age.  She writes, “This past January I flew to Arizona – cleared out my condo in Sun City in preparation for putting it up for sale the first week in April.  I drove a fully loaded 16’ truck from S.C. to Brooktondale NY.  What an adventure – I was alone!  It was an easy drive & such fun to see the looks on men (under 70) watch this old lady climb down & gas up the truck.  I wish I had my camera handy – it was a great adventure.  Took 4 days.”   Recently, she had an early birthday celebration in Winthrop WA with her son, daughter, and 3 grandchildren. Also, celebrated oldest grandchild’s  graduation from high school.  Now back to reality……weeding and general housework.

Jane Walton Godfrey writes that the Godfrey Family is doing well.  All 3 daughters and families, including 8 grandchildren (ages range from 15 to 32) still live in NYS.  Dick and Jane are involved with a church that specializes with adults with special
needs.

Jeb Bennett Moran sees Carol Horwath Klecka every month and Carol Huelson Warrington when she and husband Bob are at their place in Venice FL.  Jeb has had a wonderfully active and blessed year. She and Don went to Saint Lucia in January, travelled to GA in February to watch granddaughter Melissa star in her senior musical, attended granddaughter Molly’s graduation from Ole Miss in May, headed for IL to attend a huge Moran reunion on July 4^th and is very excited to be going to London in August, a gift from Don to celebrate her 80^th.

Jane Hollister Nicodemus returned to Hood in May to see her granddaughter, Katie Bailey graduate.  She is the 4^th generation to graduate and they received a nice compliment during the ceremony.  Jane’s mother-in-law also a Hood graduate.  Jane says that she and Bob have health problems and he was in rehab for a while, but has returned home.

Mary Allen Reynolds planned to take a trip to Yellowstone Park in August to celebrate the 100^th anniversary of the national parks.  This has been on her grandson’s wish list for several years.  She hopes “Old Faithful” will not disappoint them.  Recently, Mary took a “Girls Trip” to Atlanta to meet with the leomoto of her Ikebana School.  It was quite an adventure!  They drove all the way and ages ranged from 72 to 88.

Elly Baumgart Ritchie had a wonderful 80^th birthday with family and friends in Rockville hosted by Joanie Enterline.  She is still renovating and downsizing ye ole family residence and preparing for the annual family gathering at the Jersey Shore.

Symmie Martell Schmidt has sold her house in New Jersey and has move NYC.  She works part time at Connor Boutique in Barney’s.

Marthanne Stephens Smith has just come off of a stint as Nurse Ratchet with husband Duff’s second hip replacement and a pace maker. She says, “I don’t have the best bed side manners, but he pulled through.”  Stills bikes and goes to the gym 4 or 5 times a week unless she can think of a good excuse not to!  She still takes classes at the Community College of Baltimore County and greatly enjoys art appreciation classes taught by a fabulous professor from Malta.  They plan to spend some time this summer with their 2 girls, grandkids and brother and wife.

Penny Hunt Solum was headed to the UK and France for the month of June.  She has been in touch with Liz Conklin Collins and reports all goes well with her.

Anne Merrick Vosti has now moved into a 24/7 care taking role of husband Ken as his health continues to deteriorate.  Fortunately she is surrounded by family and help.  Ken is so good natured and never complains.  She has been taking painting lessons which has been a wonderful adventure.  Ricky says, “The key in these big changes in life seems to be to see it as an ‘opportunity’ for growth so that is what I am trying to be about!!!”  She has 12 grandchildren and a great granddaughter.  They find that one on one visits are easier now than the large family get-togethers of the past.

Mary Keener Warfield reports the sad news that her husband, Edward, died on March 18^th of cardiac disease.  She says that they have had an amazing life together for 43 years.  Edward was a retired Episcopal priest who dedicated his retirement years to pastoral care and touched many lives with his grace and love.  Mary, may all those years of beautiful memories comfort you.   God bless you during the difficult time of grieving………………………remember you are never alone.

Carole Moore White and Fritz are in relatively good health and love living in Ponte Vedra Beach FL with much of their family nearby.

Jo Olmstead Witherington is still going strong and traveling.  She had a wonderful time in the Alps, going to the Baltic capitals in July and then off to Bali and Java in September.  She writes, “As long as my health is great I will keep traveling and singing.  I have a concert in June and will be singing the Messiah in August.”  She had a wonderful 80^th birthday planned by her granddaughter at a place called “Howl at the Moon.”

On June 10^th, I had unexpected surgery to repair a tendon that was about to rupture in my right wrist.  I was in a cast from fingertips to my underarm.  Consequently, our class news did not get submitted by the deadline.  I was suddenly in a cast from tips of fingers to underarm.  Had no use of my wrist and arm for 10 days and then splints for the next 12 weeks.  Sure did make for a different summer!  I will forward this column to the class news website, send it to all who have email addresses and send snail mail to others anyone else who requests a copy…………………………………….Maggie

Marilyn Garis Kellow
262-334-5782
maggiehood1958@gmail.com

Sue Brown Melech had back surgery this summer to relieve sciatic nerve leg pain (decompressive lumbar laminectomy). Sue and Bob had a short Road Scholar trip to learn about Chesapeake Bay. They plan to be in St. Petersburg, Florida this winter from February 1 until May 1. All of the Mellech Clan, including five grandsons, are doing well.
Sara Lea Callaway Redmon had minor surgery in the spring which resulted in bed rest – lots of reading and scrapbooking……..not a bad deal! Sue’s only sister passed away in June. She had been in a nursing home several years and after 78 years of sharing memories, laughs, and tears, the adjustment has not been easy. Sue and Bob are enjoying their granddaughter.
Anne “Ricky” Merrick Vosti had no “stirring” news other than she is still somewhat sane and functional. Ken and Ricky still live in the same house on the campus at Stanford that they built in 1967. They have 12 grandchildren and now and one great grandchild. Ricky said that somehow it really “hit home” when she realized that her daughter was now a GRANDMOTHER!!! The family is quite a group spread all over the map but still seem to like to “touch base” with Grandma and Grandpa.
Carolyn Patton Meyer said they are finally downsizing. She had no news, but does enjoy reading what other classmates share.
Polly Sherman Leigh was leaving for Long Beach, California for a week of activities with the National Society of Military Widows. When she returns, son John and wife and son will be arriving to celebrate Hayden’s first birthday. It will be a reunion of sorts, since some of the cousins haven’t seen each other in 20 years. Polly still travels quite a bit, mostly between Honolulu and Milwaukee, by way of Vista CA. She keeps active with water aerobics four mornings a week and golf on Thursdays.
I had a pleasant phone conversation with Joan Enterline. She keeps busy with activities in her retirement community. Joanie and Jane Hollister Nicodemus have been invited to represent our class at the Inauguration of the new Hood President on Saturday, October 17th.
Maggie Garis Kellow Summer has been very quiet and enjoyable, but now Wisconsin gets ready for winter and a much slower pace. Three of my four grandchildren are back to college and the youngest is already a high school sophomore. Where does the time go? I keep busy with volunteering, computer classes at the local tech school, condo board, church activities, water aerobics and walking. Anything to keep the brain stimulated and help the body keep moving. Thanks to all of you who responded to my rather short notice for news. Please keep in touch at any time throughout the year and I’ll try to keep updates on the class news website.

Marilyn Garis Kellow
262-334-5782
maggiehood1958@gmail.com

Barbara Windsor Bien and husband Wayne are doing reasonably well and had planned a trip to South Dakota in late May or June. They have new friends who own a ranch near Rapid City and want to take them to see the sights (Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Monument and hopefully lots of bison). Barb said that perhaps she will get up on a (gentle) horse after 30 or more years and accompany Wayne and his friends in sightseeing. Wayne is still doing hippotherapy (sometimes called equine therapy) for his MS and still has his horse Bouffe, a dark Bay thoroughbred and former race horse. He’s 20-years-old and still going strong; Wayne rides him when he can. Barb is still volunteering at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore educating visitors about climate change and the Zoo’s mission to raise awareness about wildlife. Her favorite place to be is the Tundra Buggy visitor center, which is warm in winter and cool in summer and has a terrific view of their polar bears, Magnet, a male and great sleeper and occasional swimmer and Anoki, their female who has just finished denning for the winter and will be back on view with Magnet. Barb also continues to volunteer with Al-Anon in Baltimore. She has been a member for over 31 years and volunteers for the answering service, directing newcomers to meetings. Painting, drawing and reading are still hobbies as is writing (currently putting off a still unfinished novel about a girl with ADHD), movie going, attending Center Stage in Baltimore City, yoga and walking (no more hiking). Also, thanks to the miracle of unlimited long distance, Barb can call her daughter in N.C. (Raleigh area) and talk to her two granddaughters, 14 and 6 years old, and even listen to the 6-year-old kindergartener read her three weekly assigned books. Life is good. Jenny Krohn Rose and husband Shep keep busy training their Portuguese WaterDog. She is the star at Sit Means Sit. If anyone is in the Vegas area, they would be happy to hear from you. Fortunately, they are still in good health. Marthanne Stephens Smith said, “No news except I am cold and old!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Penny Hunt Solum said that they are coping just fine with the winter weather in Connecticut. She talked to Liz Conklin Collins recently and will be visiting her in the early spring. Liz asked that she share her current address and phone: 933 Edgewood Road, Annapolis MD 21402 Apt. #105, Phone: 410-507-5328. Despite the current chaos in Greece, Penny was looking forward to heading there in mid-April to tour Athens for several days before a week’s adventure to the Island of Lesvos to bird watch with a group of pals from Connecticut. It will be spring migration for the birds and it is Penny’s wish to be able to add a few new species to bring her world-wide bird list up to 3,000 sightings! Following the birding, she planned to head to London and join her husband at their younger son’s home there for a couple weeks. Their older son will join them for a few days, all to celebrate her husband John’s 80th birthday and their 55th wedding anniversary! Sara Lea Callaway Redmon wrote that everything is pretty much the same, for which she is thankful. She suggests that it would be nice to send Dr. Volpe cards of thanks for his years of service to Hood. She is excited about his replacement and is confident that Hood will continue to meet the challenges of high education. Jo Olmstead Witherington continues to keep busy with three choruses and concerts and extra events for non-profit organizations. She also gives talks to school children about the Civil War and the American Revolution. She fits all this in between travels. This year she will be going back to Italy, France and China.

1958
Marilyn Garis Kellow
maggiehood@hnet.net

Susanne Smith Evans enjoys a higher energy level after major open-heart surgery more than a year ago. “Being a bionic woman isn’t all bad,” she said. She was about to depart with friends on their boat for a cruise to Maine and said salt air and sailing is the best medicine. Sue Brown Melech and Bob have moved to 69 Cascade Drive ,Apt. 404, Rochester NY 14614. They hope to spend February, March and April in St. Petersburg, Fla. They had a great trip to Tanzania in February. Both enjoy good health except for Sue’s increasing loss of hearing from Meniere’s disease, but she manages just fine. Anne Walton Merriken and husband had trips planned in August to Atlanta to visit their son, daughter-in-law and 20-month-old granddaughter and New York to visit her sister Jane Walton Godfrey. They will visit her brother and his wife Karen Faller Walton ’65. Jeb Bennett Moran is busy traveling and having fun with friend Don. Sara Lea Callaway Redmon wrote, “Our lives are the same! We enjoy fairly good health and continue to be active. Carl services area nursing homes with a mobile dental group and rides his Harley.” Sara Lea has retired from 15 years as a volunteer in a second grade class, but continues scrapbooking, gardening, book club and bridge. Elly Baumgart Ritchie, P’89  spent six weeks remodeling her kitchen. She was preparing for the family gathering at the Jersey Shore and to spend a couple days with Joan Enterline. Penny Adams Rogers is in Hawaii and traveling less for the State Department. Her 25-plus years was enough, but she still loves consular work. Grandchildren, family and friends are the memories they are concentrating on; number one priority is loved ones and government service takes a second seat. Amelia Lauck Rothermel had a long three-plus months of health care. A severe bruise on her left leg led to a deep hematoma that became infected and led to emergency surgery, 13 weeks on a wound vac machine and skin grafting; she is now waiting to heal. “The good news is I have my leg!” said Amelia. Her husband Jim has been a godsend during this difficult time. Gail Shaffer is president of the local historical society and works six days a week as a volunteer. They operate a museum, restored a Victorian house and sponsor walking tours. In July, she planned to run a house and tent tour. The community has more than 100 tents where people live from May to September. In February she had a reunion in Florida with Ginny Lew Horger Grogan and Tookie Voorhees Quodomine. Marthanne Stephens Smith attended grandson Patrick’s high school graduation in Vermont. He will attend the Univ. of Hartford. Two other grandchildren: Allie will be a senior at Elon Univ. in North Carolina and brother Warner will be a sophomore at Johns Hopkins Univ. Grandson Andrew is an eighth grader. Marthanne takes courses at a community college. Nancy Anderson Stearns said,  “All is fine in Quiggleville. Same location and status quo other than a little older and grayer. I’m traveling and seeing the world; Tanzania was the latest. I enjoy being a great-grandmother without the direct care and feeding, just the cuddling and rocking part.” Mary Keener Warfield and husband Ed moved into Fairhaven, a senior community in Sykesville, Md. They enjoy good health; Ed is still an active Episcopal Priest at their church in Baltimore and Mary continues to be the parish/faith community nurse for the congregation. Their 15 grandchildren’s softball games keep them moving. Carole Moore White and Fritz moved to Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. Three daughters and families are there; they are happy with the involvement of family and blessed to be together. Jo Olmstead Witherington fits in traveling between singing concerts. She recently had a gospel tour. In August she will sing in a Mozart concert before leaving for Norway. In September her chorus will be performing The Music Man. “After being in hospice care for more than 13 months, my, Marilyn Garis Kellow, husband Dick slowly started having periods of unresponsiveness in early December and quietly passed away Jan. 7, 2014. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 48 and fought courageously for almost 32 years; the last 18 in Cedar Community Health Care Center. It is truly a blessing that he is at last at peace. Our family gathered during the holiday season and we celebrated his 80th birthday on December 23. Thank you for the cards and kind expressions of condolence.”