MMHS1957

The end of the class blog

2010-12-17T16:54:00.002-05:00

The former Mt. Morris High School, October 2010, view from athletic field and track
Over four years ago this blog was started to jog a few memories before the upcoming 50th class reunion. Then after the reunion it sort of took on a life of its own with Lynne and Nancy S. supplying photos of class activities from the 50s, and a few memories of events in the more recent years. In fact, 2010 with their participation, had more entries than any other year. But it is time . . . I will try to clean up a few mistakes I've made in spelling names--Marian and Marion, Debora and Deborah. I think I've got Jon and Salley down now. If I'd known it was going to have such a long run, I would have made an "authority" list instead of just making up labels as I went along. You can click on any label to see what other entries share it.

We've got stories and photos of the 10th, 15th, 20th, 30th, 45th, 50th reunions, and the 52nd and 53rd "events," plus the ladies breakfasts that met whether or not the whole class did! Actually, the 50th reunion entries are a bit skimpy. If I have the correct labels, about 70 of the entries are from the 1950s (there is some overlap), there are a number of birthday parties, lots of sports stories--baseball, basketball, football, golf, track and tennis--organizations like 4-H, scouting, band, GAA, Student Council, churches, town businesses, town landmarks, our memorial tree dedicated to deceased members of the class, weddings and anniversaries (there would have been more but I didn't get photos from Jon and Phil who celebrated their 50th anniversaries during our blog's time), the class plays, current health problems of class members, and a number of obituaries, including class members who died during the time of the blog--Carolyn, Marv, Neal, Klaus and Libby, as well as our former teachers, and parents of classmates. Probably the saddest entries for me were the obituaries of the sons of our classmates, Glenn R., Lynne and Salley. Those I didn't expect to write. But we also have poetry (thank you, Lynne), some YouTube videos of songs and music of "our times," and some warm memories. As long as Blogger dot com continues, our class and its times will have a spot on the internet.

Will someone please answer my question from the first entry?
---------------------

Update July 15, 2011: Sharon Lynn Genz Thomas
Sharon's daughter, Tara, posted on her Facebook page that Sharon died on Thursday, July 14, and the funeral is July 20. Sharon came to our 50th in 2007 accompanied by a grandson. A month after our graduation she joined the Navy where she met her husband Lonnie (d. 1993). After her service she went to college and became a teacher retiring in 1999. She had a lot of hobbies and really enjoyed traveling--having visited all 50 of the states.

Update July 25, 2011 Classmates Glenn R., Francine K., and Diane B. have recently had surgery and might appreciate hearing from classmates as they recover. Please contact Lynne at the above e-mail address, or check your 2007 class reunion roster.

Congratulations Jon and Dixie Martin

2010-12-16T17:52:00.001-05:00

The Martins celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 11, 2010 with a family cruise to Alaska. Congratulations!

I Dare You Honor Roll--Danforth Foundation

2010-12-16T09:22:00.001-05:00

I found this little certificate inside the I Dare You book, which had become too moldy in a box in the basement* even to read. I don't remember that I ever read it--and according to this site, it is considered a classic of self-improvement books. Maybe I was voted the girl most in need of improvement? Were the book and certificate given out with a different award? How many of these were given? It's not mentioned in the 1957 yearbook than I can find. Here's a summary:

"Fourfold development. Think tall, stand tall, smile tall, live tall. I Dare You; You can be bigger than your are; Are you one of the priceless few? I dare you to adventure; I dare you to do things; Now for the start; I dare you to be strong, think creatively, develop a magnetic personality, build character, to share; Launch out into the deep; I dare and share.

This self-empowerment classic is specifically written for the young and young at heart. This book encourages young readers to "dare" themselves to do things they should be doing, but fear or dislike doing. Things like getting up in the morning, doing their homework, trying out for the team, going to the dentist, etc.

This book is a classic in motivation and success that ranks right up there among such titles as "Think and Grow Rich", by N. Hill, "How to Win Friends and Influence People", by D. Carnegie, "The Power of Positive Thinking", by N. V. Peale, and "The Geatest Salesman in the World" by O. Mandino. This is truly a message that is just as valuable today as it was the day it was written. This is a wonderful book for both the young and not so young. The advice is invaluable for helping anyone achieve a positive and "can do" attitude.

"I Dare You is for the daring few who are headed somewhere. Those afraid to Dare might as well pass it up. It will weary the lazy because it calls for immediate action. It will bore the sophisticated, and amuse the skeptics. It will antagonize others. Some will not even know what it is all about. It will not be over-popular because it calls for courage, swift and daring. But in the eyes of you, one of the priceless few, I trust will come a renewal of purpose as you read on. You can be a bigger person than you are and I am going to prove it to you". - The author"

*For 34 years we lived in a house with no basement and no attic and we had no moldy papers. Finally we have storage, and poof, most of it is unusable or smells bad.

Services for classmate Carolyn Manis Reynolds

2010-12-09T15:25:00.003-05:00

From the Daily Herald: Carolyn A. Reynolds of Round Lake Beach; Carolyn A. Reynolds, 71, passed away Sunday, Dec. 5, 2010, at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville. Private services are being held at the Burnett-Dane Funeral Home, Libertyville. Carolyn was born Oct. 13, 1939, in Freeport, Ill., and was raised and went to school in Mount Morris, Ill. She was a former Libertyville resident and had lived in Round Lake Beach for the past five years. Surviving are her husband, Herbert J. Reynolds; sons, Chris (Patrice) Reynolds of Wauconda and Michael Reynolds of Round Lake Beach; grandson, Tyler Reynolds; and brother, Lynn Manis. She was preceded in death by her brother, Jerry Lee Manis.

The most recent photo I have of Carolyn was taken at our 1987 class reunion, and mine is a very poor scan, so I'm posting this one of a girl scout outing. If you have something more recent, please forward. You'll remember that Carolyn was struck down with polio shortly before the vaccine became available, and returned to class, I think in 6th grade, on crutches. She gamely kept up--I remember hiking with her to Camp Emmaus and that she was active in CBYF! Few today younger than us remember this terrible scourge--our little community was hit hard.

And thanks to Jon M. who noticed this item in the Daily Herald and alerted Lynne.

Update from Nancy's archives: 1987 reunion photo of Carolyn

Two photos from 1972 Times

2010-12-01T16:32:00.001-05:00

Nancy has recently sent along two photos from the 1972 Mt. Morris Times, but taken 20+ years apart. The first one is our classmate Barb and a nice story for the home town on her career. The second is a "down memory lane" photo of the split 6th-7th grade class with Mrs. Westfall in 1951. If you click to enlarge you can read the captions.

National Honor Society election 1956

2010-11-30T13:58:00.002-05:00

No date on this Index photo, but it says we were juniors (1955-56), and in the Yearbook photo the girls are wearing white shoes, so induction must have been in the Spring, because you know we all followed those fashion dictates in those days. The Yearbook reported that only 15% of a class can be elected, and the Index said the upper 25%, and both that the standards were rising. The class of 1956 had 8 members, ours only 5.

King and Queen of 4-H--Dwayne and Mary Jane

2010-11-30T13:36:00.001-05:00

You can click to enlarge and read the story about two members of our class, Mary Jane and Dwayne being crowned King and Queen of the Ogle County 4-H clubs in Spring 1956. Nancy L. another class member was included in the Royal Court. What a lovely slight this must have been during the candle lighting ceremony.

Cheering on the team 1955

2010-11-30T13:27:00.001-05:00

Actually, I'm taking a stab at the year--1955. I didn't get a story or a date with the scan of this Index photo. However, I see Donna Lamm, Judy Garrison and Pat Claussen, class of 1955 in their Pepster outfits, and possibly Jean Davis, and it's indoors, so we're pretty sure it's basketball. Almost in the middle I see Gayle Dickson, class of 1956, then to her right is Judy Thomas, and in front of her maybe Sig Shook, possibly Jane Kiplinger, and Diane Bechtold, and down in front Don Raney and possibly Chuck Wean; near foreground Darlene Ruter, Dolores Saunders, Janet Fleer, and on the end is Sybil Dohlen. They weren't even in high school yet! Lynne was able to spot herself, but I couldn't; think I see Darlene and possibly Mary Lou. Anyone else want to take a guess and who, what and when?

Birthday parties were big for the ladies of '57

2010-11-30T13:04:00.003-05:00

Click to enlarge

Can't be sure of the years, but I'm guessing the Lake Ripley event was May of 1952 or 1953, and the party at the Olsens was 1954. Does anyone have photos? Nowadays, everyone would have a cell phone camera and there would be 25-50 photos of each party!

A thank you note to the Kable Brothers Company

2010-11-19T14:43:00.000-05:00

The bronze marker on the rock located behind the band shell on the campus and in front of the community gym reads:

1948

50th anniversary

Kable Brothers Company

In grateful appreciation of the contribution made by its co-founders Harvey and Harry Kable, to the printing industry and the life of this community, their giving spirit has set a high standard of enterprise, integrity and kindness to our American way of life.

Erected by the businessmen's league of Mt. Morris, August 28, 1948.

Lynne sent in this photo and reports she doesn't remember the dedication and wonders if anyone else does.

Sophomore sports photos

2010-11-18T13:45:00.003-05:00

The caption of the photo doesn't tell the whole story. The night before our guys creamed Mt. Carrol, a town much closer to our size. And even so, the varsity did beat Dixon, after a record setting performance the night before against Mt. Carroll.

I don't have all the golf scores, but it looks like the Mounders did well against schools our own size, and the yearbook says the backbone of the team was Glen R., Dick M., Ken Z. and Dick Z. Norm G. and Jon M. played with the junior varsity.

Music activities from 1955

2010-11-18T13:33:00.001-05:00

Sylvia T. won a first at District Music Contest along with Mary Ellen K. and Jon M., and then went on to play at the University of Illinois at the State Music Festival in Urbana (I don't have the outcomes for the others). In this Index photo she is going over her music with Wayne Johnson. She still plays in the town band and is the organist for the Church of the Brethren. Band members also played for school assemblies, marched in the Homecoming parade, played for football and basketball games and with the choral groups participated in the Blackhawk Music Festival.

Photos from the Pinecricker PowWow in Polo

2010-10-16T05:20:00.004-05:00

The mostly local members of the class of 1957 met for lunch on a lovely fall day at the Pinecricker Grill in Polo on October 8. I thought the food and service was excellent, so if you're looking for a spot for your Friday night date, check this out. I took a few photos, and I think Sylvia did too, so let's see what we have. She has a much better camera and usually alerts people to "look this way," so I expect hers to show more faces, and fewer backs.

Here we have Bob C., Nancy S., Dave S., Sylvia T., and Ebba L.

I get some great "back of heads" photos--this is Bob C., Ron D., Lynne F. in the red, Fran K., Nancy G. standing, Marion D. and Diane B. The child is Diane's grandson, and the two guys you don't recognize are Fran's friend (green shirt) and my husband (blue shirt). Nancy S. husband Don was there too, but I don't see him in any of the shots. Jean M. was there, but maybe came after I took the photo.

Here's a surprise! Fran laughing, Lynne making a strong point, and Dave drinking a cup of coffee! Is there life after high school, as they say.

Photo from Sylvia added Jan. 16, 2011

It was a very hot day for October, and the sun was so bright we're all squinting, but we sat down for a mini-group photo on the bar side of the restaurant for a one last "see you next time."

I hadn't been to Polo in years. It looks much the same as when I was a corn detasseler in the 1950s, and the town has a very nice looking business district. Like Forreston it no longer has a grocery store. Shop local! Save your stores!

Funeral for Classmate Marvin Miller on October 9

2010-10-04T07:31:00.003-05:00

From the Ogle County Life:

"COLUMBIA, MO — Marvin R. Miller, 71 passed away Aug. 29, 2010, in Columbia. Born August 21, 1939 in Freeport.
He served in the United States Army Reserve and was stationed in Germany during the Korean war.  He grew up in Mt. Morris  where he  resided and worked at Kable Printing Company  until moving to Columbia,  MO in 1974.
He is survived by sons Charlie (Lisa) Miller of Menomonie, WI; Andrew Miller Webster of Eau Claire, WI; and Frank Miller of High Bridge, WI.  Grandchildren are Ash and Tyler Miller of Menomonie, WI and Lilly Miller of High Bridge, WI.  Sister, Dianna (Wayne) Kretsinger of Leaf River, IL and several nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by parents Edna Cullen and Kenneth Miller and brother John Miller. 
Military Honors will be held at the graveside in Oakwood Cemetery in Mt. Morris on Saturday, Oct. 9 at 3 p.m."
Note: I think the author of the obituary made an error on the era in which Marv served in the military--the Korean War ended in July 1953, the year we graduated from grade school. Sylvia Hageman of our 1957 class was his step-sister. His brother John (d. 2008) was a freshman when we were seniors and I think Dianna was a few years younger.

Our archivist Nancy S. found this great photo of the class walking in the 1992 July 4 parade and Marv is out front.

We're of an age. . .

2010-09-29T13:28:00.000-05:00

Yes, friends and classmates, it's time.

If you turned 70.5 in 2009 or earlier you'll need to withdraw your minimum distribution from your tax-deferred retirement accounts by December 31, 2010.

If you turned 70.5 in 2010, you'll need to withdraw your minimum distribution by April 1, 2011.

I don't give tax advice, so for the details, you'll need to find another blog.

Lynne completes 700 mile walk during summer 2010

2010-09-23T09:18:00.004-05:00

Possibly she didn't get those last few miles in--but last I heard, with 3 days of summer left, she'd walked 670 miles. Walking 5 miles a day is nothing for her. Now think about how small Mt. Morris is! She must know every tree, bird and bus driver by name!

Imagine what our track team could have done in the old days if the teams were co-ed!

Train photos by Wesley Fane and Steve Smeadly.

Update from Mike on his hip surgery

2010-09-22T05:23:00.003-05:00

Well, here I am two weeks to the day after my surgery (September 21 from an entry at his blog). I have a nurse come to see me once a week to check my vital signs and to check my blood to see how the various drugs are affecting me. They ask me to evaluate my pain on a scale of 0-10. I'm pleased to say that it is a 0 most of the time, with and occasional 2-3. Most of that pain is not from my hip, but from my other muscles which are taking over the task of supporting my weight that I cannot put on my hip.

There are 3 things that I must keep in mind, according to the doctor. 1) Only 50% weight on my left leg, no more; 2) the angle of my body bending at the waist cannot exceed 90 degrees; and 3) my foot and leg cannot cross a line equidistant between my feet. So crossing my legs is a no-no. Also I must walk like a duck with my left foot pointed to the outside of my body. It must not be forced to turn to the inside. These things are getting hard to remember as it is difficult, with no pain, to resist just getting out and running or jumping or climbing trees, as I feel that I can readily do all that.

I sleep at night very well, but it must be on my back. I have adjusted to that as I am a side sleeper. Judy said that I snore mightily on my back. So to insure a sound night for her, I must sleep where all my growling bear noises cannot be heard by anyone. (She suggested the car in the garage, but I nixed that.) I am still a little uncomfortable sitting and typing on the computer as it is close to the 90 degree rule. As time allows, and time does march on here, I will keep anyone interested apprised of my progress in future blogs. Thanks for reading. Mike

For the complete story of Mike's hip problems, which actually began about three years ago, please go to his Owensville blog where he explains how it began, worsened after a fall, and then the procedure and prognosis.

Update on Mike's progress as of October 13.

Correction leads to interesting biography

2010-09-21T10:31:00.003-05:00

Someone anonymously corrected information at this blog about the Milwaukee Brewers/Braves and when I checked it out I came across a very detailed biography of Nelson Potter, Sr. with a number of quotes and anecdotes from our classmate Nelson "Tom" Potter. You'll enjoy reading this. If you grew up in MM, you remember all the Potters.

Reviewing the 1956 football season at MMHS

2010-09-20T07:57:00.000-05:00

About three and a half years ago I posted this slide show and story by Lynne about the 1956 losing football season. It's kind of nostalgic, so maybe you'd enjoy reading it again.

September Song - 1938

2010-09-18T12:04:00.000-05:00

Salley is back at it with the Senior Women's Amateur Championship

2010-09-15T07:27:00.000-05:00

Story in the Rockford paper.

"URBANA — Salley Wessels of Mount Morris is one shot off the pace Tuesday after the first round of the 41st Illinois Senior Women’s Amateur Championship at Stone Creek Golf Club.

Wessels, an eight-time winner and defending champion, shot a 77, tying her with Colleen Dold of Decatur for fifth place. They trail the foursome of Carol Stack of Champaign, Laura Carson of Lake Bluff, Mo Sheehan of Grayslake and Roberta Sentel of Marion."

HT Murray

Mid-September in Illinois

2010-09-15T07:17:00.003-05:00

If our high school building were still a high school, and if we were still attending classes there on a hot September day and longing to escape . . . this is what we would see. . . Isn't it beautiful?

September 11, 1960

2010-09-14T09:33:00.001-05:00

Fifty years go by awfully fast, so here are some before and after photos of our wedding on September 11, 1960, and our party on September 12, 2010. We had it at our daughter's home, and although we were still working on the deck on Saturday evening, the weather and neighbors cooperated and we had about 120 guests who stopped by for an open house.

What a surprise! My sister had the wedding dress sent (a big hush, hush secret) which our mother made for her in 1955, and which I wore in 1960.

Another huge surprise--my brother came from Illinois! The new deck worked out great, and we had a large tent in the back yard.

Mike is getting good care after surgery

2010-09-13T15:28:00.002-05:00

Class president Mike recently was released from the hospital after a scheduled hip replacement. Judy writes that the surgery and recovery, so far, have gone well and he is starting a long period of rehab at home with visits from the nurses and physical therapists. He has a lot of restrictions, but Judy is a nurse and taking good care of him. She says, "He has a lot of upper body strength so has gotten very good at getting himself up from the chair by himself and walking around the house with his walker," and has even managed the stairs a few times. We wish you a speedy recovery, Mike!

The photo is a recent Balluff reunion at the White Pines, Judy on the far left and Mike in the blue shirt sitting between his two daughters. Some of you may remember Ruth Balluff of Mt. Morris, who is in the middle next to Mike's daughter.

Fall Get Together Being Planned for Class

2010-09-01T21:16:00.002-05:00

The class of 57 is planning to get together for lunch on Friday, October 8, 2010 at the Pinecricker Restaurant in Polo, Illinois at 11:30. Spouses or special friend are welcome, too. If you're in the area, join the group at 124 E Mason, the main drag. In case it's been a long time since you've been to Polo, here's our own GPS system (Lynne): "You can get to Polo via 9 curves road AKA Pines blacktop or by going ~~east~~ west out of Mt. Morris on Hwy 64 to the 8 mile and turning left on Hwy 26 into Polo." Or, as everyone says, "You can't miss it!"

A note from Norma to visitors here: Pine Creek which meanders through the hilly area between Polo and Oregon, Illinois, and through the White Pines State Park, was created from small, natural springs. There is a Pine Creek Township in Ogle County and people who live in that area are called Pine Creekers. My grandparents raised their large family there in the 1920s and 1930s. For some midwesterners of that region who were transplants from Tennessee, a Creek is a Crick, as in "Lord willing and the crick don't rise."

Another note, this one from Bob C.: "You drive west out of Mt. Morris, Norma, not east." I've always been directionally challenged and have to look at my wedding ring to figure out left from right, so I didn't even notice the problem!

Mt. Morris Printing Plant Safe from Closures

2010-08-21T10:23:00.001-05:00

In "our day," it was called Kable Printing, dating back to 1898 when twins Harvey J. and Harry G. Kable started the Kable Brothers Co. Our classmate Tina is a granddaughter of Harvey. Quad/Graphics of Sussex, WI bought World Color Press for $1.3 billion in January. The facility employs about 530 people.

"Quad/Graphics owns and operates 45 plants nationwide, including one in Mt Morris, but will be closing five of those plants early next year. Quad/Graphics is moving the work for the clients at the closing plants to other plants. The Mt. Morris plant is equipped to handle the work from the closing plants, but the company is not disclosing which plants will get the work."Mt. Morris Printing Plant Safe from Closures

The archives for Kable Printing are at NIU.

Thad Wessels

2010-08-18T04:37:00.028-05:00

Thad Wessels, son of classmate Salley, died on August 16, 2010, after suffering a stroke three months ago. Our deepest love, support and sympathy go out to his parents, Salley and Phil, and to Thad's wife and daughters, Michelle, Lauren and Lexie. According to Lynne, there will be a memorial service in Minnesota with family and friends, and later a memorial at Trinty Lutheran in Mt. Morris for local friends and family. If you need addresses to send condolences, please contact Lynne at lflemingwilburn@yahoo.com. More information will follow.

Update: There will be a full obituary in the Star Tribune paper and Rockford Star on 8/22, and there is a legacy page here.

Update: From the Rockford Star, August 22: "Thaddeus Olsen Wessels, 40 PRIOR LAKE, Minn. - Thaddeus Olsen Wessels, 40, died Monday, Aug. 16, 2010, in Regency Hospital in Golden Valley. Thad was born Jan. 12, 1970, in Rockford to Philip and Salley (Olsen) Wessels. He graduated from Mount Morris High School, Class of 1988. He received a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering from Bradley University in 1994. He married Michelle Gensler on June 17, 1995, in Kickapoo. He was employed as a corporate industrial engineer for Cenveo in Minneapolis. He enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling and golfing. Thad is survived by his parents; wife, Michelle of Prior Lake; daughters, Lauren MacKenna and Lexie Marie Wessels, both of Prior Lake; and brother, Seth Wessels of Midland, Mich. He is predeceased by his maternal grandparents; paternal grandparents; and stepbrother, James Wessels. Service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 29, in Trinity Lutheran Church, Mount Morris, with visitation from 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 29; the Rev. Steven Erickson will officiate. Memorials will be established in Mount Morris in Thad's name and to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital . Arrangements by Finch Funeral Home, Mount Morris.

From the Star Tribune, August 22: "Wessels, Thaddeus "Thad" Age 40, of Prior Lake MN, passed away on Monday, Aug. 16th at Regency Hospital of Minneapolis. He is survived by parents, Philip & Salley Wessels; brother, Seth Wessels; loving wife, Michelle (Gensler) Wessels and Daddy's girls, Lauren and Lexie Wessels. Preceded in death by one brother, Jim Wessels. He graduated from Bradley University and has worked as an engineer in the Printing industry for many years. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed traveling. He loved life, his family, and his friends who lived in states from Maryland to Oregon. Cremation has been accorded. A Celebration of his Life will be held at 10 AM Monday, Aug. 23rd at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 7110 France Ave S. Edina, MN 55435 (952-924-4100). Visitation 9:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital."

Girl Scout Troop 7 receives badges and stars

2010-08-08T15:45:00.003-05:00

This item, now almost 60 years old, appeared in the Mt. Morris Index probably in 1951 and Lynne uncovered the clipping recently.

"Fourteen members of Girl Scout Troop No. 7 and their leaders, Mrs. Lawrence Lamm, with her assistants, Mrs. Dan Fishman and Mrs. William Folgate, enjoyed an overnight hike to the Ross farm last week. A potluck supper for all the parents and families was a feature of the evening after which the girls were presented their badges and stars showing they have been girl scouts for the year. During the badge presentation ceremony, the investiture was held for Norma Corbett who has recently joined this troop. The Scout girls who participated in this overnight recreation were Sharon Rothermel, Sara Yoder, Barbara Emmert, Diane Bechtold, Darlene Holverson, Dorothy Raney, Marion Duncan, Kay Alter, Salley Olsen, Francine Kitzmiller, Lynne Fleming, Deborah Plum, Nancy Lamm and Priscilla Drummond.Thanks for sending this Lynne--I remember Ross Farm, but don't remember this particular event. Also, I don't remember Mrs. Fishman being our assistant leader--I used to babysit for them. It's a good thing the class of 1957 was such a busy group--what would the paper have been without us?

The town Commercial League baseball

2010-07-21T15:10:00.033-05:00

If you lived in a small town 50 years ago, you probably either followed or played or sponsored a sports team. These fine young athletes were sponsored by Dewey's Gulf Service, and they took second place in the Commercial League during the first half of play. The competition were teams from the Moose, VFW, and Corbett Oil. Members of the "Gashouse Gang" are (kneeling left to right) Jim Watt, Bill Lundholm, Harold Hanke and Orion Brunk. Standing left to right are classmate Dave Bartow, Stan Messer, Bob Hanke, Bob Bartow, Dick Duffy, Don Morehouse and Bob Rawes, as identified in the July 21, 1955 Mt. Morris Index.

Bill L., Murray T., and Dave S. all played on these teams and have supplied me with some additional information not in the above article. Bill reports that in the mid-50s it was a strong league with Lou Behrens in charge. You had to be in high school to play, but he remembers that Dick Highbarger played while still in elementary school because he was such a good hitter. There were also college age men on the teams. Murray says the teams were built around the pitchers (he was a pitcher). Dave's recollection includes the teams for the younger players too. He says, "The leagues were pretty much run by Lou Behrens. Depending on age, sign-ups were at the gym or at school. The Playground League, ages Jr High through Sophomore were: Police, Townview Dairy, Ogle Cafe and Zickuhr's. Commercial league was for anyone Junior through adults: Corbett-Coffman, VFW, Moose and Dewey's.

How team captains were selected, I don't know. However, Lou would get them together and each captain would select a player off the list of those signed up until all were selected. As teams were only as good as their pitcher, the first selected were guys like Darrell Cory and Bill Lundholm."

Thanks to all who contributed to this article!

Summer movies at The Lamb, July 1955

2010-07-14T14:35:00.005-05:00

If we got tired of swimming, golf, playing baseball, hanging out with friends, roller skating at the White Pines, or meeting at the summer band concerts and needed a break from babysitting, mowing lawns, helping mom in the garden, detasseling corn, or working part time at one of the many small businesses . . . there was always The Lamb Theatre! Here's an advertisement, supplied by Lynne and Nancy, our busy historians, for Daddy Long Legs with Fred Astaire and Leslie Caron, Blackboard Jungle (shocking! says Lynne) with Glenn Ford and Anne Francis, which helped boost "Rock around the clock" to #1, and of course, the Saturday kiddie show (my favorite) Riders of the Purple Sage (1931, based on Zane Grey novel) plus 4 cartoons. Ah, small towns in the 50s--we probably didn't appreciate the peace and quite then, but isn't if fun to misremember!

Report on the Class Breakfast, July 3, 2010

2010-07-05T07:09:00.007-05:00

In the middle of June we got to thinking there would be no breakfast this year because the Fourth fell on a Sunday. Lynne and Nancy didn't want to see a tradition die, so they decided the class could have the breakfast on Saturday with no problem at all. Nancy talked with the folks at the Dogwood Inn, which is at the site of the old truck stop at "8 mile" at the corner of routes 64 and 26. They have a huge room there and they promised we could have it for our breakfast get together. It did in fact work out very well and we could visit without bothering other people.

It was a day of perfect weather and the restaurant set up things very nicely for us. The breakfast was at 8:30 am and many arrived early to visit. This year instead of "Ladies Only" as we've done for years, we invited the guys and also spouses. We had 19 in attendance and it seemed to work out perfectly. Sylvia read a funny little poem about reunions through the years and how each one changed through the years. Letters and e-mail from absent members were shared. Camera flashes went off and a group picture was taken at the end.

Those attending were Sylvia and Dave, Mary Jane and Dwayne, Moe and Nancy, Ron and Faye, Nancy and Don, Sara and Bill, Glenn and Donna, Jean, Lynne, Marion, Diane, and Jerry B.
Report by Nancy and Lynne with candid photos to come.
Update with additional photos.

Dear Class of 1957

2010-07-03T07:10:00.008-05:00

Here's a 2 hankie and 3 belly laughs letter from our class president, sent to Lynne for the breakfast event on July 3, 2010.

Dear Classmates-

Let me say first that I am sorry to not be able to be with you this weekend. You all are the greatest people in the world. I wouldn’t trade my experiences with you for anything . What wonderful memories I have of the plays, the sports, the proms, the classes we all had together through elementary school and high school. Latin with Mr. Kinsley, chemistry with Mr Burstrom, gym or PE with Lew Behrens, English with Mrs. Burstrom, 7th and 8th grade with Mr. Rahn and Mrs. Westfall.

Who can forget the PE classes where we chose partners and learned to square dance? Happy memories… like…be sure to shower before you go into the pool and dip your feet in the disinfectant pond. How about the hot dogs in the canteen when we were playing pool, the marching band at the football and basketball games with Beth Amsrud, watching the Kable Kolts at the Community Gym, singing in the mixed chorus, playing football for JR Worley, Rusty Egan and The Whiz Kids basketball team who came one game shy of going to the state tourney, the dairy whips and hot dogs for lunch at Mt Morris Dairy for 26 cents, sticking straws on the ceiling at Felkers by dipping the ends in our marshmallow cokes and blowing them up to the tin ceiling, (how about a Green River?), penny candies at the 5 & 10 cent store, Cremo Baker and his popcorn stand at the bandstand on Saturday night, cruising Main Street on weekends with loud mufflers and Chief Palmer and Dan Claussen watching for rowdy behavior, filling up the jalopy at Harry Horton’s Mobil station for 18 cents a gallon, the great badminton games in the high school gym, soccer and baseball on the diamonds on the playground, King of the Hill on mounds of wintry snow, picnics at the Pines where we played the faculty in softball, all this and more makes us what we are.

Goodbye to Sharon, Mary Lou, Jerry, Larry, Norman, Tomas, Duane, Don, Klaus, Libby and Neal--God bless them all. We miss you guys. Have a great party, everyone. I love you all.

Judy and I live in Owensville Missouri now and extend an invitation to you all to visit.

Mike

The 35th Class Reunion, 1992

2010-07-02T09:38:00.007-05:00

The Mt. Morris High School Class of 1957 celebrated its 35th class reunion by "Going back to the good ole days" and recreating their 1954 Sophomore Homecoming float. It won a first place that year and was the first float to ever beat out the Seniors. It was also the first float to ever use spray paint instead of colored napkins. Taking four weeks, 9500 napkins and two gallons of paint, class members met at the High School Bus Garage and put many hours into this labor of love, but had lots of fun and socializing, too. For the re-creation, a stuffing party was scheduled for Thursday, July 2, 1992, when local classmates and those from afar joined together to visit and finish the float. Classmate Salley O., a teacher at the high school, took other members and two retired teachers on a tour through the Junior and Senior High Schools. Food and drink plus 50s music was an added bonus for the evening.

On Friday evening July 3, thirty-four classmates attended the 35th Reunion at the White Pines Inn in White Pines State Park. They entered the Pump Room through a cluster of red and black balloons. Each table was decorated with red and black balloons with bases of red and black foil paper on mirrors with votive cups and red candles with red napkins on a white table cloth.

The social hour began at 6:30 p.m. and during that time a group photo was taken by Ken Heern Photography. There was much fun and emotion as classmates greeted each other. Many had not seen each other in over 5 years or longer. Following the smorgasbord of roast beef, fried chicken, and nostalgia, Mike B., 1957 class president, welcomed all class members and had many thanks for all who helped so faithfully working on our special project. Mike gave a short entertaining talk and a card was circulated for an ill member unable to attend. Afterwards, many class members went on to the Alumni Dance held at the Mt. Morris Moose Club, providing an opportunity to visit with other alumni.

On July 4, thirteen ladies of class met for their annual breakfast at Peters Cafe in Leaf River. Then it was time to get the float ready by 12:30 and hoist the 9' tall skunk onto the carpeted hay rack with a beautiful garden of over 60 handmade flowers made of tissue paper. Even the wheels had a fresh coat of paint and the wagon tongue was wrapped in red and black crepe paper to show off our accomplishment. A 1954 John Deere tractor owned by Mary Jane and Dwayne pulled the float to the music of the Statler Brothers singing "Class of 57." A lot of classmates walked the whole parade route behind the float and many others joined along the way. By the time the float passed the reviewing stand there were 23 class members walking with the skunk looking down with a big smile on its face. Following behind them was a 1964 Pontiac Convertible owned and driven by classmate, Jerry W., with his special guest, Lester Mayes. The float won a 2nd place ribbon in the float division, but to us it was a first place winner from beginning to end.

Traveling to the reunion from a distance were Dick Z., Justina K., Sharon G., Nancy L., Myron B, Mike S., Mike B., Glenn R., Duane B., and Marvin M. Near-by and local members attending were Salley O., Jean M., Sara Y., Ron D., Steven B., Francine K., Nancy G., Melvin K., Mary Jane F., Dwayne Z., Sylvia T. David S., Norm G., Diane B., Nancy S., Ebba L., Melvin R., Bonnie W., Sylvia H. Libby M., Marion D., Priscilla D., Darlene H., and Glen O.

Another reunion was in the planning for 1997 in five years.

(Submitted by Nancy S., the class archivist and diarist)

Ladies Breakfast July 3

2010-06-19T18:13:00.001-05:00

It's a long, hallowed tradition. The ladies of the MMHS class of 1957 have breakfast and a side of gab over the 4th of July celebration. It will be July 3, 8:30 a.m., at the Dogwood Inn (old 8 mi. on Rt. 64). However, I've heard that there will be a break with tradition, and the men of the class are now included in the Ladies Breakfast. Don't take my word for it--just show up and check it out.

Grocery prices in summer 1955

2010-06-16T07:44:00.002-05:00

This ad from the Royal Blue in Mt. Morris might make your mouth water thinking about steaks on the grill at $.59 a lb., or bacon at $.47 with your eggs. Royal Blue was a midwestern chain begun in the 1920s which lasted (by name) into the 1970s. (I have no memory of this store--where was it?) However, I checked the USDA statistics on percentage of disposable income spent on food both at home and away from home, and today's American family has a much better deal. In 1957 15% of the family food dollar went for food at home, and 3.4% for away from home, for a total of 18.4%. In 2008 (last year for which there were figures) only 5.6% of disposable income was spent on food at home, 4% away from home, for a total of 9.6%, or about half what Americans spent in 1957. (In Canada the at home figure was 9.3% in 2008.) That's really amazing. What isn't so surprising is the shift to away from home eating in total percent spent on food--from about 22% to over 40%.

However, think of this. According to the journal PLoS One, we Americans waste 40% of our food--that's counting at every stage, not just down the garbage disposal--harvest, warehouse loss, market spoilage, restaurant trash and then the typical household discards. Even with all that waste, food today is an excellent value for the consumer. But couldn't we all do better?

I don't know about your mom, but at the Corbett household on Hannah Avenue, not much was wasted. The summer garden produce of the 1940s and 1950s was stored in those beautiful jars in the basement, and the scraps were returned to the earth; most of the time at our house there were no "left-overs" because Mom gauged the right amount; our worn out play clothes were cut into strips and crocheted into area rugs; doll clothes were made from pieces left over from our home sewn dresses; those of us who had older sisters and brothers got a "new" outfit when they outgrew them; the carpenter/plumber/repair person that was called at our house was my mother and she also hung the storm windows; the weed killer for the lawn was my brother and me digging them out.

Drool over 55 year old grocery ads if you wish, but when you do, remember the real costs and the personal labor that went into it. I sort of like spending 20 minutes preparing dinner so I have more time to do other things--like writing blogs.

Neal Johnston, class member, dies May 24

2010-06-11T14:26:00.003-05:00

The following appeared in the New York Times today, June 11, 2010.

"JOHNSTON--Neal W. With great sadness, we mourn the loss of our father who died on May 24, 2010. Born in Illinois, December 30th, 1939, he graduated from the University of Chicago - where he edited the Chicago Maroon and appeared in US English-language premiere of Spring Awakening - and Harvard Law School. A practicing attorney until the end, he never put gaining a fee ahead of arguing a good case, and was known throughout the legal community for the literary quality of his letters and briefs. An associate at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison before starting his own practice, he was also Deputy Chief of Litigation for the New York State Attorney General; Chief of Staff to the President of the New York City Council; a fellow of the Association of the Bar of the City of New York and the founder and first Executive Secretary of the Council of New York Law Associates (NKA the Lawyers Alliance for New York). A Midwesterner by birth but a New Yorker by soul, he celebrated and lived the life of the mind - and the arts. We will miss his wit, wisdom and great generosity of spirit. His wife Eden Ross Lipson predeceased him. He is survived by his four children, two brothers Warner and Scott and ex-wife Judy Johnston. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lawyers Alliance for New York. Lawyers Alliance will host a memorial service on October 1st at the Association of the Bar of the City of New York. Delari, Tara, Margo and Garth."

Neal's wife, Eden Lipson, died in May 2009, and was a children's editor at the New York Times, and also a children's book author. Condolences have been sent to Neal's children from the class of 1957.

Classmates Neal and Salley chat at the 40th (1997) class reunion.

In the good old summer time

2010-05-28T17:19:00.026-05:00

We were fortunate to have a community gym in Mt. Morris. The college gymnasium burned in the fire of Easter 1931. A new one was built in 1932 financed by contributions with the agreement that it would go to the town if the college closed. And it did after the 1931-32 school year when Mt. Morris College merged with Manchester College in North Manchester, Indiana. The swimming pool provided some great times--as I recall a swim was 10 cents and you had to go through a foot bath. It seemed like a very old building when I learned to swim and passed the test in 1951--but it really wasn't. That's how kids see things.

That looks like Keith N. (class of 54) and Bill N. (class of 55) having a knock-em-off fight in the foreground, possibly our Dave B. in the back along the tile. Then in the bottom photo we have identification of two of the fine golfers, Dick and Dick in a Jaycee Junior Golf Tournament at the Sunset Golf Club, another fine athletic facility that set our town apart.

When seniors taught the classes, May 1954

2010-05-27T05:35:00.004-05:00

I flipped through the 1954 Mounder to see if this event was listed, but I didn't see anything about the senior class taking over for the teachers. But here's the record from the Mt. Morris Index. In the photo members of our class from the left are Larry S., Duane B., Gary H., and Glenn R. They all look very attentive. Teaching the Industrial Arts class was Gary Miller, class of 1954.

Just girls hanging out--May 1953

2010-05-25T17:50:00.004-05:00

From the left standing: Nancy L., Salley O., Norma C., Francine K., Sara Y.

Kneeling: Doree D. (class of 58) Marion D., Kay A.

This was probably lunch time based on the sun angle.

Photo from Carol S. (class of 58)

Girl Scout troop 227 at Camp

2010-05-24T15:59:00.004-05:00

This photo from a June 12, 1954, issue of the Index brings back a flood of memories. On one hike we took the back way to the White Pines State Park. Roads were gravel then and it was a hot and dusty hike. Our leader, Mrs. Lamm, had us take breaks in the shade where we'd all flop down to rest. Suddenly, Fran was jumping and gyrating like nothing we'd ever seen before. She had landed on a huge ant hill and they didn't like it at all! Mrs. Lamm had us form a semi-circle while first-aid was applied to Fran's back side. Years later while watching the 60's TV program, Laugh-In, we realized they were doing Fran's dance--a cross between the Funky Chicken and the Watusi. Fran survived and so did the story--Fran, ever the good sport and joy to this day. Lynne

Remember this house?

2010-05-18T10:16:00.000-05:00

Lots of parties and good times here, both during our school years and after. The first scan is what it originally looked like with a floor plan. The second is what it looks like today without the stucco, casement windows and gracious front window through which you could see a spectacular tree at Christmas. Yes, the Fleming home on Hitt Steet.

A note from Klaus' widow Margot

2010-05-01T18:01:00.005-05:00

Please click to enlarge. She is thanking the class for the memorial tree and notes that Klaus loved Amazing Grace, which was played at his funeral and played by Sylvia at the planting ceremony.

How many of us remember him.

Patrick Wilburn, 1976-2010

2010-04-14T12:46:00.007-05:00

It's with great sadness we report the sudden death on April 8, 2010, of Lynne's son, Patrick Arnold Timothy Wilburn. He is survived by his mother, our classmate Lynne, and his two devoted aunts, Genie and Rosemary. Born on February 24, 1976 to Ed and Lynne, welcomed by grandparents Arnold and Rose Fleming and Henry and Marguerite Wilburn, he lived a life of love and happiness, bringing joy and a special zest for life in all his activities to his parents, extended family, neighbors, friends and staff of Kreider Services.

A memorial in his honor has been established at Kreider Services, Attn: Autism Program, 500 Anchor Road, Dixon, IL 61021. A celebration of Patrick's life and scattering of ashes will be held later this Spring at Franklin Park, near Franklin Grove, one of his favorite places for walks with wildlife, birds and fish. Patrick, who lived in Ashton Terrace, a Kreider group home for adults, regularly attended nature camp in the early Spring and late Fall, and even as a toddler was an outdoor kind of guy. "If the sun was out, so was Patrick." He also loved soccer, and Lynne was the uber-soccer mom always cheering him on. Lynne says he was not the most aggressive player (he was too kind for that), but he was the most determined. Patrick was also a good dancer (Aunt Rosemary saw to that), and was quite sought after at the various social events he attended, enjoying also the company of his special friend, Jenny, his companion at the workshop and on hamburger dates.

Lynne not only supported the special needs of her son, but other parents struggling to understand and cope. She counseled them saying, "It may not be a 'normal' life, but it can be a good life." Many advances have been made since he was diagnosed at age 3, but there is no cure, only help.

Patrick's extended family pitched in to teach all the little niceties and small things that helped make him such a pleasant young man--things the rest might take for granted (or never learn!). Removing the hat when entering the home; turning off lights when leaving a room; using less water to conserve; good table manners; politeness and respect. His natural sensitivity to people's feelings and emotions, however, didn't need to be taught. Lynne says it was hard to be unhappy around Patrick. He got every bit he could out of life, and he wanted you to also!

Holidays were special in the Fleming household because Patrick came home--the above photograph of Thanksgiving with Aunt Genie and Mom Lynne is an example. Preparations were being made for Easter when they got the sad news of a seizure and heart attack and all rushed to the hospital to spend his final days by his side. Patrick's last good deed in this life was to be an organ donor, and four grateful families are sharing in his life now with their loved ones. Lynne says, "I know not age, nor weariness, nor defeat. He was worth every bit of it."

If you think we looked young in 1957 . . .

2010-04-05T12:03:00.004-05:00

Take a look at 1954! A big shout out for Lynne and Nancy scouring the Index archives. Click to enlarge and read the names. But I'll bet you'd know Bob C. and Phil E. anywhere! And isn't #34 our president?

According to the 1955 Mounder, football practice began August 30, 1954. The Freshman-Sophomore squad had a 4-1-1-record, displaying great promise for the future varsity. That was a pretty good prediction, because in the fall of 1955, the Mounders were undefeated with a few blood baths, 32-0 over Lanark, and 52-0 over Milledgeville.

1954 summer baton class

2010-03-24T13:11:00.005-05:00

Click to enlarge
Nancy and Lynne are hard at work at the town library this Spring finding interesting things about the class of 1957. I actually remember this one because I had the newspaper article in my scrap book years ago. The note under the photo says six of the girls would be picked for the fall of 1954. So I checked the 1955 yearbook and found a photo of the marching band majorettes lead by main majorette, Gayle O. Others were: Barbara N., Jane K., Mary Ann M. (not in the above photo), Wilma W., and Salley O. Baton twirling is pretty athletic, and MMHS most famous athlete, Salley, is the only one in our class that made the cut that year. The following year (fall of 1955), again, Salley was the only one from our class along with 3 freshmen and two seniors. In our senior year (fall of 1956), again, only Salley.

I'm happy to report that Lynne is up and around after some serious health set backs, and is again walking and checking on our class tree on the campus which appears to have survived a pretty tough winter.

Tennis squad, 1954

2010-03-15T17:32:00.006-05:00

Click to enlarge
Members of the class of 1957 presented in this Index photo are Glenn O., Mike B., Jon M., Jerry T., Gary H. and Neal J. According to Lynne, who submitted this photograph, the old tennis courts are now used for bike racks and some basketball hoops. There are nice tennis courts in Dillehay Park and many young people and old timers make good use of them.

Cheerleaders, 1952-1953

2010-03-12T14:45:00.003-05:00

Nancy S. has sent this adorable photograph of the Mt. Morris Grade School cheerleaders. Click to read the print.

Learning about voting with Mr. Worley

2010-03-10T12:33:00.008-05:00

This was posted at "Do you remember this in Mt. Morris (Facebook) by Mr. Worley's daughter. Appears to be either civics class or American history, but the students are definitely class of 1957.

From left: Duane, Sharon, Pat, Myron, Mary Lou, Jon. Can anyone identify the adults?

Remember Mr. Sandman?

2010-03-04T09:29:00.006-05:00

I seem to remember learning this song--but have no recollection of where or when we sang. "Mr. Sandman" debuted on 10/30/54 and peaked at #1 for 7 weeks.

The Chordettes were Carol Buschman, Janet Ertel, Lynn Evans and Jinny Osborn. Janet Ertel was the mother-in-law of Phil Everly of “The Everly Brothers.”

Another birthday party found!

2010-03-01T17:29:00.005-05:00

Sylvia is sharing an adorable photo, and I'm really thrilled to see another photo of my cousin, Jimmy, who died in 1949. For years I didn't have a single photograph and in the last few days I've acquired five. Another thing amazing about these "little guys" is how dressed up they are! Look how many are wearing sport coats. Sylvia supplied the identification. Probably 1948--Dave's 9th birthday.

Back row: Tom Walker (deceased), Dave B, Gene H(class of 1956)?, Jimmy Corbett (deceased), Dick Z, (_unknown__)
Front row: Dave G (class of 1958)?, Dave N (class of 1959), Dave S., Mike B, Dolores Saunders (deceased)

Where is Mt. Morris?

2010-02-26T16:44:00.003-05:00

Today I got an e-mail: "What state is this Mt. Morris in? A specific location appears nowhere on the blog's landing page. FYI there is more than one Mt. Morris High School in the USA!"

My reply: You're right. It must have slipped off somewhere in the various template changes after the reunion was over, because that is an irritation of mine. Many libraries and schools don't list the name of the town or state on their webpage. It can be figured out from the temperature out-click, but a reader shouldn't have to work that hard. The same thing happens on Facebook.

It is Mt. Morris, Illinois, and the school from which we graduated is now defunct/decommissioned. The town has about 3,000 people, at least three blogs for various class reunions, a webpage for the town, and the last I counted, six different corporate Facebook pages, 1 for the town (over 1,000 participants), 1 for school alumni, 1 for memorializing deceased residents, 1 for the Moose, 1 for Trinity Lutheran, and 1 for Church of the Brethren.

Welcome to Mt. Morris, Illinois.

Deficio -ere -feci -fectus--be lacking, missing

2010-02-22T13:55:00.008-05:00

It's really difficult to schlep these huge Index ledgers to the copy machine and get the part that's nearest the binding, but Lynne managed to get most of the photo of the Latin contest winners of 1954. Valerie K, Latin II, came home with a 2nd, and Nelson P. and Neal J. got a lst and 2nd for Latin I at the Sectional Latin Contest at Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, Illinois in 1954. Evan Kinsley, the principal, taught Latin. He had a B.A. from Manchester College and a Master's from the University of Wisconsin. Lynne recalls that a few in the class transferred to Home Economics, but that even a few weeks or a year were useful. I know that I always used my Latin and typing in any job, clerical or professional--the two most useful courses I took at MMHS.

The Ladies perform for the PTA March 1954

2010-02-19T14:33:00.006-05:00

Lynne writes that physical education aka "gym class" or PE probably wasn't our favorite class. "I admit that our gym teachers always tried hard to mix it up--archery, swimming, baseball, tennis, volleyball (every time it rained), girls basketball, running laps on the track, prison ball and the dreaded Square Dancing. Looking back--it was probably fun, but it was cool to make fun of it and pretend to not like it. Katie Rasmussen Dirksen had us do some tumbling and pyramid building. This photo from the Mt. Morris Index shows some girls we can't identify performing for a Parent Teachers Association on March 9, 1954. Norma, Nancy and I all thought the girl on the left top was Barb H, but she says not. And Judy T. who was also very tiny says it isn't her. So, it will remain a mystery.

GAA (Girls Athletic Association) was something we all seemed to belong to (1954 yearbook shows 102 girls from all four grades). It was held on Monday nights after supper. One night I remember some of the gals in the mixed chorus breaking into song, "Tenderly" while we showered and dressed. No one had a Rosemary Clooney voice, but it sounded pretty good and more gentle in the 50s. Singers then didn't feel they needed to shout at you.

In the same Index, there was an ad for the new location of the Tot and Teen at 129 S. Wesley Avenue--"Watch for the grand opening," and an ad for Ship and Shore blouses in Scotch plaid for $2.98. I remember plaid blouses were the rage in the early 50s. The old location of the Tot & Teen was next to the Lamb Theater.

Speaking of The Lamb, in that same Index issue the coming attractions were Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis in "Money from Home," and Will Rogers Jr. in "The Boy from Oklahoma." We seemed to go to a lot of movies and each time it changed, we wanted to see that very one. But for the life of me, these two are forgettable." Lynne

Note: After Katie left, Miss Jacobsen became our PE teacher for our junior and senior year, but I can't find her first name. Anyone know?

The 1953-54 Fresh-Soph Squad

2010-02-16T09:04:00.004-05:00

Lynne and Nancy have been busy looking through the Index archives. This scan from the Sports Section reminded Lynne of the movie Hoosiers--except for the white shoes. Lynne identifies line up as: Back row: Phil E, Moe K, Ray G, Dave S, Jon M, Chuck W, Larry B; Middle row: Glenn R, Dick Z, Dave B, Ron D, Mike S, Mike B; Front row; Gene H, Dick H, Stan M, Dave B, Bob H, Murray T.

The coach was Ray Walder, a graduate of Iowa State Teachers College and our General Science and Biology teacher. He led the "Moundets" to 15 wins and 5 loses that season, with only 2 returning lettermen. In the Conference, they finished with 7 wins and 1 loss. The main 8 lettering players were 6 sophomores--Stan, Dick, Bobby, Murray, Dave and Gene, with our own Dave B and Dick Z adding a lot of glam and action.

New Band Uniforms, February 1954

2010-02-15T16:04:00.006-05:00

And didn't we feel special! Lynne scanned this from the Mt. Morris Index which reported, "Attired in their new uniforms for first appearance at half time during the Mt. Morris/Polo basketball game." A special fund was used to buy these uniforms with help from the PTA. Our director was Wayne Johnson, a graduate of Murray State College with a M.M. from Indiana University who also directed the choral groups, did arranging, and played trumpet in a local orchestra.

That year there were 50 band members--wouldn't that be about a fourth of the school body? We played at half time during the home football games and the half during the home basket ball games, the homecoming parade, the various special musical programs, school assemblies and the opening of the summer concert season at the bandshell on the campus. We also participated as a band and as individuals in band contests with other schools, and the Blackhawk Music Festival. Did we ever give a passing thought to the wonderful opportunities provided to us by our community and parents?

The trombones are completely out of view over on the left, but our class of '57 was well represented in that section--Steve B., Dwayne Z., Myron B., Sara Y., and Norma C. are there with a little help from senior Noel Mc. and sophomores Bob B. and Jim I.

Help me out if I misidentify the musician or instrument: Sylvia T., flute; clarinet--Neal J., Sharon R., Lynne F., Diane B., Francine K.; Priscilla D, French horn (shiny blonde hair in the photo); Nancy L., saxophone; Jon M., drums; trumpet--Salley O., and Darlene H. also Tom W. and Deb P. (I'm guessing here). I think it was either our junior or senior year that Nelson P. took up the bass, joined the band and entered musical contests. In our final year there were 8 seniors who played in a pep band--if you remember who--add it in the comments.

Be my Valentine

2010-02-13T08:56:00.003-05:00

I'm a card saver. I was going through my very disorganized under-the-guest-bed box looking for old Valentines to use for decoration on the 14th for our brunch, and I came across a poem Lynne sent me in 2000. With her permission, I’m putting it on the class blog.

It's the little things that count
The things of everyday,
Just the simple things that we can do,
The kind words we can say.

The little things like a friendly smile
For those who may be sad,
The clasp of a hand or kindly deed
To help make someone glad.

Just the little greetings here and there
On which so much depends,
The little pleasures all can share,
The joy of making friends.

Lynne L. Wilburn
2/2000
Valentine's Day

The 1956-57 Student Council

2010-02-10T13:14:00.007-05:00

Click to enlarge and read.
If you still have your senior year book, the activities of the Student Council (pp.12-13) are interesting for its wide range of interests. On the two page spread, the following activities are listed.

Met with the student councils from Oregon and Polo to discuss school problems organized all Homecoming activities managed game concessions appointed sponsors for dances presented Courtesy Week (juniors Barb G. and Gary G. were Miss and Mr. Courtesy) sponsored candy sales during the noon hour in charge of assemblies in charge of the campaign for candidates for council (speeches and assembly) in charge of Conference Track activities sponsored Student-Faculty Dinner responsible for decorating the showcase planned Freshman Orientation Day handled lost and found coat check recreation room tournaments supervised the TV set which was a gift from the class of 1956 held a work day in April (we beat Earthday by 13 years!) to clean up the school grounds attended state and district conventions had a picnic supper with past members at Camp Emmaus Spring dinner with various other committees to prepare for new year worked on a community code with the PTA began planning for a student handbook.Whew! I had no idea. Council met the first and third Wednesdays and the Council projects all had committees drawn from the student body. Looking at the photo, all representatives appear to be Sophomores through Seniors, which would make sense because elections were in the Spring before the Freshmen were part of the student body.

Memories of the Canteen, by Lynne

2010-02-06T19:17:00.006-05:00

During our four years at MMHS, the Wagon Wheel Canteen in the Community Gym was a big part of our week-end social scene. I vaguely recall painting something, as I was handy with a paint brush (still am) during a summer renovation. If anyone can explain where the "Wagon Wheel" name came from, I'd surely like to know. If I knew, I have forgotten (imagine that!). I have also forgotten the membership cost. I do remember going to the re-opening though, and that is (photo and Index article below) Francine K in the patterned skirt with her arm on Priscilla D and deep in a conversation with Nancy L right in back of Priscilla. Although the photo is fuzzy I think in the background is Bob O, Joyce S and Pat F on the right, and possibly Jean M and Greeley M over on the left.

I do remember the music. Not long after the re-opening, the Lamb Theater had a coming attraction for the movie, "The Glenn Miller Story," and not long after his music made its way to the canteen record player. I have Glenn Miller music on my I-Pod to this day. How that music has endured is nothing short of amazing!

In one issue of the Mt. Morris Index I read about a canteen sponsored dance, "the music, in part, by Noel McInnis and his Modern Music Manglers." I had to laugh out loud. It reminded me of a dance at NIU right after high school and my young date excitedly explaining that at this St. Patrick's day green pig dance, the music would be provided by "Oink" Henderson and the Squealers. I am not making this up! As much as I wanted to laugh, I remembered the Modern Music Manglers from high school and thought, why not? Both of these dances were fun.

The canteen was an after game stop--win or lose--and if you had a Friday or Saturday night date, sometimes the couples would pop in before heading home. Pop corn was sold and I can't recall what else, and there was a pool table and a shuffleboard game. Most parents enforced the 11:30 PM, "be home by" time. Often parents chaperoned and I always winced when by parents took a turn.

In this same 1954 issue of the Index, the Clara Warden Apparel Shop, 5 S. Wesley Ave., later to become the Smart Wear, ran an ad for a dress, "Snow Glitter" by Vicky Vaughn, $7.99, with eyelet snowflakes from yoke to hip, banded with daisy trim and a full swinging skirt in ice blue, parfait pink or white. Wing Song perfume was selling at $2.00 for 2 oz. down the street at the Mt. Morris Dress Shop. Nine out of 10 high school girls smelled of Wing Song at the canteen re-opening I am sure.

Anyone have canteen stories they'd like to share?

Click to enlarge

Mt. Morris on Facebook

2010-02-04T06:00:00.004-05:00

If you're on Facebook (social networking site) there are three Facebook pages for Mt. Morris (maybe more, but that's what I've found). "Do You Remember This in Mt. Morris" is the name of the page where people of all ages are posting memories of the town, schools, businesses, sights, events, etc. In the upper right hand corner of the screen is a search field. Type in what you're looking for and the page should come up. There is a window at the top of the screen where you can post a comment, or you can just begin reading. There is also a Facebook page called simply "Mt. Morris High School" and another "I bleed Mounder Red and Black" which are more specifically about the schools before the merger with Oregon in the mid-90s. "Do You Remember This in Mt. Morris" is linked from the town website.

Remember these guys?

2010-02-01T10:32:00.004-05:00

They were our version of the NBA. I remember sitting in the community gym watching them. I think this is the 1952 Regional. The cheerleaders were covered up and the players wore the skimpy uniforms! Found it at the Face book page of Ginny's daughter.

Party time 56 years ago

2010-01-22T09:48:00.003-05:00

From the Mt. Morris Index--important social news!

Friday night January 22, ". . . a few of Priscilla D's friends gave a little surprise party in honor of her birthday in the home of Lynne F. Guests included Marion D, Tina K, Kay A, Salley O, Sara Y, Norma C, Nancy G, Nancy L and Fran K. After enjoying ice cream and cake, the honoree opened her lovely gifts."

Ebba's winter wedding, by Lynne

2010-01-06T15:33:00.006-05:00

As a young woman just out of high school (1957), I attended a number of weddings . . . they seemed to go on forever. Some friends were married twice (to different fellas during those years). My own wedding didn't happen until 1974, so by then I had lots of experience.

All of the early weddings were lovely and most of those I attended endured, some now over 50 years and many others very close to 50 years. None of the early weddings, however, stand out in my mind like the wedding of our classmate and my friend, Ebba and her Jerry, on January 6, 1964. A winter wedding--and I thought, “How lovely!” It started to snow about 10 p.m. the night before. I thought, "I hope this lets up." It did not.

In those days, I usually worked on Saturdays, but had taken the afternoon off to be in the wedding--to cut their wedding cake at the reception. I carefully selected an outfit, shoes, coat, etc. and had my hair done late Friday night. Dad had filled the gas tank of the family station wagon and all was ready. It snowed all night and was still snowing by take off time. Dad counseled me to start early and even offered to take me if I was timid about snow driving (he KNEW I was not the best driver and this was dear of him). I assured him I'd be fine. Mom suggested I wear boots. I frowned . . . that didn't really go with what I wanted to wear, but I put them on and used a shoe bag for my new dress shoes (purchased just for this wedding). Dad and my sister shoveled the drive way and I set off. It continued to snow. . . the closer to Rockford I got, the heavier the snow. I crept. I arrived in Rockford and could not remember were Trinity Lutheran Church was located. I stopped to ask a gentleman walking; he gave me directions and I thanked him. He added, "Hell of a day for a funeral." I said it was a wedding and he said, "Hell of day for that, too!" I promptly got stuck, so he and several other nice folks pushed me out and I was again en route to Ebba's wedding.

When I arrived the car clock said I had ten minutes, then I remembered it ran slow. I plowed my way through the snow to the church and the church janitor was trying in vain to clear the church sidewalks. He said, "Better hurry." Oh sure! I got into the church just as her minister said, "I now pronounce you. . . " and heard the organist boom out, in that nearly empty church, the recessional. Ebba and Jerry were frankly surprised to see me, as so many of their relatives didn't make it.

I cut that wedding cake with my boots on! I don't remember even taking off my coat. I was so worried about getting home, I remember very little else. Except Ebba's wedding dress. Her mother had hand made this lovely wedding dress for her youngest daughter and it was just the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. A soft ivory in a style that showed off Ebba's slim waist. She insisted I take a piece of cake home to sleep on (that is an old custom so if you dream of a young man, you will marry). I took the cake, said my good byes, and good lucks, and started back for home. I wasn't there much over an hour and when I returned to the car I needed to be pushed out again. Snow removal in the 60's wasn't what it is now and the streets were a mess. I had to reverse my directions to get home and I could barely see.

The blizzard raged on. I was a wreck. I turned on the car radio but the only station I could get was playing Claude Thornhill's "Snowfall," a lovely piece and a favorite of mine, but not that day. I crept to Rt. 2, which anyone local knows is a winding route into Oregon known for its accidents even in good weather. I began to sweat and to take deep breaths. I stopped in Byron and waited for a snow plow. I got behind one and made it safely to Oregon. The storm raged around me and it was nightfall. I stopped at a gas station and called home. Mom wanted me to stay in Oregon with her friend and not try coming home up Liberty Hill just west of Oregon. Just as I put down the phone to call Mom's artist friend, the state snow plow rumbled past. I got back in the trusty station wagon and I and several other cars followed it safely to Mt. Morris. When I came into the house I said, "piece of cake," and handed over my wedding cake to my sister. Only while telling my family about my harrowing trip did I remember I left my new shoes in the back pew of Trinity Lutheran Church, never to be seen again and never worn!

The snow was reported to be nearly 24 inches and it was days before everyone was shoveled out. Ebba and Jerry had to take a bus into Chicago for their delayed honeymoon as their car was buried. Many of Jerry's relatives from central Illinois did not make it and his parents were nearly snowed in at the Rockford Motel!

Ebba and I laugh about this from time to time and she told the story at my bridal shower in 1974. For my own wedding I had at first thought a Christmas wedding then I remember all that snow and decided October would work better.

Ebba and Jerry were married 42 years. Jerry died in 2004 after a short illness. They have four children, three daughters and a son and five grandchildren. Ebba still lives in the home she and Jerry shared and she keeps busy with family and friends and her church involvements. She still has that lovely wedding dress carefully packed away along with those wonderful memories of that unforgettable winter wedding.

H.A. Hoff

2009-12-19T15:13:00.005-05:00

Yes, this is our Superintendent of Schools, Harold A. Hoff, astride Nancy's horse, Flicka. The photo was taken in Diane's front yard on Center St.; he lived across the street. Mr. Hoff was first engaged as superintendent of the high school the year most of us were born, according to Mount Morris Past and Present. He succeeded I.R. Hendrickson. Before becoming Superintendent of MMHS, he served 14 years as superintendent of Milledgeville High School. His wife's name was Mable and they had a daughter Janice. Mr. Hoff died at 94 in 1993.

Thanks to Nancy for sending the photo.

Current and past holiday traditions--by Lynne

2009-12-08T18:20:00.008-05:00

A busy time of the year! I decorated our class memorial tree with red and black snowflakes and Nancy S. and I have taken some photos which we’ll send for the blog. We met at the Muggs coffee shop which faces the campus--a nice place for old friends to meet and enjoy that lovely view of the campus. Muggs is a realitively new coffee shop (circa summer 2008) where Plum Electric and the old Tot and Teen in turn were housed during our era. The large front windows face west and you can see our memorial tree clearly along with the old dairy from it as well and the old Rittenhouse building, which I think housed the first Kable Printing enterprises.

Some may not know that Mt. Morris now has a food pantry (about 2 years old), Loaves and Fish at the Church of the Brethren, and I’ve been busy helping there. It’s a community effort, open the first and third Thursdays and the second and fourth Mondays. When the truck from the Northern Illinois Food Bank arrives, we volunteers carry the food into the church in carts and stock the shelves.

We’ve also enjoyed a community Christmas cantata the last few years, directed by Norma’s brother-in-law, Nelson. I attended it Sunday Dec. 6 at Trinity Lutheran Church and it was fabulous--followed by a social hour. Others from the class of '57 were Sylvia T. (flute), Marian D. (chorus) and Salley O. (chimes). Former teacher, Warren Burstrom and his wife, attended also.

Priscilla came through Thursday and we went over to the Pines for lunch and spent a lovely afternoon. She shared some of her home-made apple butter with us. My sister Genie's favorite.

Saturday my sisters and I went to Sinnissippi Forest for our last live Christmas tree from that source . . . they are closing after this year. No one wants to work that hard, I guess. We‘ve been going there for our tree as a family since 1948. First, Dad and I went alone, then Genie came too, and finally Mom and Rosemary. The trees got bigger when those two joined us. Dad liked small trees but Mom wanting to utilize the 12 foot ceiling in our house and would always urge bigger and wider! Little Rosemary would literally run from tree to tree exclaiming each one to be the best. "Oh, Lynnie, this one…,” then “Oh Mom, this one is the best," until finally we'd pick one. Our trees are shorter and slimmer now as I understand why the smaller tree was what Dad preferred. He had to wrestle them into the stand. I took some pictures of them picking our final Sinnissippi tree and when we left, I took one last look around and I think Genie and Rosemary were crying. All things of our childhood pass, I guess. . . but this one I will really miss.

Later when I was doing my regular walk I recalled caroling in the halls at Christmas time in grade school, with Helen Lou pounding out carols on the old upright in halls and trooping over to the old Brethren Home to carol for the residents (never dreaming we'd ever be old!). Remember that? If it got cold early in those days, and it usually did, the fire department would flood the tennis courts next to the high school and we'd ice skate.. The police department would barricade the street by the old hotel to traffic for sledding or we'd hurry off to the golf course and slide down the pit. Priscilla asked me about the pit at lunch when I told her I walked there in winter. Warm memories for these cold days.
　
Nancy L. in California called and she said it has been snowing all day. They think they will get 6 inches. How weird is that! She was thrilled and recalled walking in the first snowfall--her, me, Pris and Fran, all over town and through the campus. It is still a good place to gather thoughts and reflect. The town would light a big tree on the campus and string those lights from light pole to light pole across Wesley and Main and Reddings would crank out Christmas music from a speaker until 9 each night. Real small town stuff. Nancy's knee is coming along (after surgery) but she is not ready for a walk in the snow yet!

We have new activities--still for the community. Coming up on the 12th is “Christmas on the Village Square” with children’s activities, strolling carolers, a parade led by Santa, and holiday cookies to buy. Money raised from the cookie sale goes to the Senior Center. We’re a busy place! There will be a Loaves and Fish food donation drop off on-going all day at the band shell for anyone wishing to donate.

All my hand-made Christmas cards to date I've given to our stamping group. They set a goal of 1000 hand-made cards for soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. One club member made 120 another 40, I gave over my 16 and now I have to make more--my sisters added together another 6. I made cards for people I don't know and now have none for those I do know! I will work off and on until it is too late to mail. Haven’t bought cards in years.

I walked the golf course today and picked up windfall for the fireplace, I'd rather start my fires with twigs and not paper, or at least not colored paper and this time of year the paper is 70% ads.

I will whisk off the photos as soon as I get them. To all the class of 57, stay well because Joyous Noel is at hand. . .

Update: Photos sent by Lynne are Nancy S checking out the black and red snow flakes (school colors); Dave S unloading the truck at Loaves and Fish; Lynne F stocking the shelves of the food pantry.

The class of 57 had its dream

2009-12-07T14:32:00.001-05:00

From the lapels, I'd say this dream was 1973 when we were only 34 or 35.

Illinois Pupil's Reading Circle Diploma

2009-11-10T12:28:00.004-05:00

This is an interesting certificate, apparently given out the evening of our 8th grade graduation (if that was May 29th), and signed by Laverne Edwards, our principal, Harold A Hoff, the superintendent of schools, and Verna Westfall, teacher (she wasn't my 8th grade teacher, so perhaps she was in charge of the program). The seal says "Illinois Pupils Reading Circle" which, according to a 1904 Illinois encyclopedia was started in the late 19th century to promote reading with a set of donated books to classrooms when schools didn't have libraries (and ours didn't). I have no recollection of what was included in the reading list, so perhaps someone else remembers?

Mrs. Westfall's 7-A class 1952

2009-11-10T10:23:00.008-05:00

I got so inspired by Pat's contribution of old clippings, I decided to look for mine. Although we lived for 34 years in a house with no basement and no attic and I managed to keep track of my school memorabilia, we now have both and I can't find anything. I crawled into an appropriately named crawl space under the stairs with a flashlight and opened a plastic container. I think my old scrapbook might be in there, but this was nearer the top and I was breathing mold and my knees were aching, so I backed out.

Here's what I'd written on the outside:

Mt. Morris Grade School, May 1952, Grade 7-A, Verna Westfall Teacher. School started September 2; school out May 27 (2:15).Then on the inside, our classmates signed their names and nicknames--I only remember a few of these--not even the one I gave myself. Debora was Fruity, Kay (not in the picture) was Shike, Betty was Pety, Francine was Frany (not in the picture) Dave was Little Bart (not in the picture), Richard was Dick, Marion was Mickie, Marv gave himself the nick name of "Me," Priscilla was Pris, Nancy S. was Cisco, Melvin K. was Moe, Barb H. was Billy, Larry was Stiher(?), and to Mrs. Westfall's signature it looks like I added "Wesy" and I doubt that we ever called her that to her face.

First row left: Barbara E., Priscilla D., Dorothy (she signed Dorothea) R., Melvin K.
Second row: Barbara H., Dwane B., Eugene (Mike) S., Marion D., Neal J.
Thrid [sic] row: Donna B., Debora P., Betty P., Darrel M., Betty L.
Fourth row: Carolyn M., Glen R., Gary H., Nancy S., Tom W.
Fifth row: Marvin M., Shirley R., Richard S., Norma C., Larry S.

Not in picture: Kay A., Francine K., David B.

Thoughts about the classroom: I see many small plants on the window sill. Did we each have a plant we were taking care of? Mine would have been dead by May, for sure. Anyone remember why notebooks were stacked in the back of the room? Was that to make our desks look neat for the photo? And didn't we all want to be in Mr. Rahn's room next door--I think it was his first year of teaching. Remember when you could put mittens on radiators to dry--and the whole room would smell like wet wool? Remember the plays Neal would write and Mrs. Westfall graciously let the class perform them?

Class of 56 and 57 CBYF trip

2009-11-09T13:03:00.007-05:00

Although I'm not positive of the date, I think this is Spring 1954. From left, Joyce K., Gayle D., Barb N., Norma C., Sharon R., Deb P., Sylvia T., Jackie K., Mike S., Pastor Dean Frantz. Can't see him, but I'm guessing Forrest Kinsey, our Sunday School teacher took the photo. We were visiting Chicago.

Red House Mystery, Senior Play

2009-11-07T06:21:00.009-05:00

More memories courtesy of Pat B. and scanned by class archivist, Nancy S.

The play was presented April 12, 1957. The 1957 Mounder has a good 2 page spread on the theme, and all the cast and supporters who helped with the play. Lynne wrote a blog on this back in 2007 with some good candid shots.

Time Out for Ginger Memorabilia

2009-11-06T19:06:00.006-05:00

More good stuff from Pat B.

"Time Out for Ginger", a comedy in three acts by Ronald Alexander, was presented by the junior class of Mount Morris High School on Friday evening, November 18, in the gymnasium auditorium. [from the 1956 Mounder]

A recent Broadway and television success, "Ginger" was a hilarious expression of a new and dangerous philosophy by Howard G. Carol that everyone should be allowed to do whatever he wants. The Carol family, headed by father Howard, a usually conservative banker, is dominated by the varied activities of 3 active teen-aged girls. The youngest daughter, Ginger, reports for the football team, Life magazine selects her for the cover, and the Carol household is in an uproar. Richard Myers was our Director.

Kay A. played Joan; Jean M. Jeannie; Norma C. was mother Carol; Dave S. was Eddie; Myron B. Tommy; Mike B. was Mr. Wilson; Jon M. the father, Howard Carol; Pat B. was Lizzie; Marv M. was Ed Hoffman.

When the broadway play got to Chicago in 1954, Steve McQueen played the part of Eddie.

1955 Champions

2009-11-06T18:47:00.006-05:00

Courtesy of Pat B. who has donated some goodies from her high school scrap book.

The 1956 Mounder reports "Top-notch playing earns Mounders perfect season." This year the Mounders rolled to their first undefeated season. . . the games beginning with the West Rockford JVs 6-0, then Rockton 12-6, on to conference play at Lanark for an easy 32-0 victory, and Homecoming the next week beating Mt. Carroll 18-12 in the rain. Then the Mounders trounced Milledgeville 52-0, even with 3 touchdowns called back for penalties. At Oregon our guys won 19-0, and in the final game with Polo, the score was 28-7.

Class of 57 members of this team were Dave B., Phil E., Marv M., Dwayne Z., Dick Z., and Dave S. Nelson P. was team manager.

Memorial tree's first fall

2009-10-31T14:14:00.006-05:00

Our memorial tree had a lovely first fall, according to Lynne--it was lovingly watered and watched over by several '57 class members.

The leaves fall.
Autumn is closing the windows
on the year.
But this is just
a moment in time.
There is always that eternal hope
that looks ahead to the glorious green and
flowering life of a new springtime
just over the horizon.

Update: Another photo at a different shade in the color spectrum and angle as the season changes. Isn't it lovely?

If you have these Mt. Morris books. . .

2009-10-25T10:06:00.008-05:00

Hang on. They seem to be worth a lot of money. The Kable Brothers Printing anniversary book I saw for $200, and the Old Sandstone for $150 at a rare book site on the internet (forgot to note which one). I have the Memories of Old Sandstone--bought it a few years ago for $20. You might want to shop around.

A 50's Fashion Story by Lynne

2009-10-15T11:55:00.006-05:00

I begged my Mom to buy me two wool scarves--one pink and one yellow--it was the BIG fashion of the moment. I promised to have them dry cleaned at season's end (remember Cratty's on Main Street?). The first year I did, but by year two, I figured dry cleaning was killing my allowance (I had my 8th grade navy slacks pressed every Thursday for wearing on Friday. Our school colors were navy and orange.) So. . . I washed the scarves. Well, I had to give them over to my little sister for her dolls--they were the size of pocket hankies!!! I still don't trust a label that says "wool--washable." Ya, right--if it's wool, it's the dry cleaners.

The lower photo shows the jeans of the 50s. I wore boys jeans early on and there is the Ship & Shore white blouse and the mandatory neck scarf and saddle shoes. In the backgroun is the "new" Mt. Morris VFW--no trees yet or paved drive, so it was early 50s. I was enroute to the apple orchard in back of the VFW, so I think it was a warm fall day.

Breakfast in 1996

2009-10-12T04:24:00.006-05:00

I can't tell you much about this photo except that I found it in an album of photos where I keep 40-50 years worth of Christmas card photos, and it was in a section with Lynne and Sylvia's families (what adorable children!) I wasn't often around for these mid-year events, but I think Lynne and/or Sylvia used to gather up some folks for coffee at the little restaurant on Wesley when Nancy L who lives in California was in town. My photo-detective eye spies an artificial pointsettia in the foreground, so I'm guessing this was December 1996 and I was probably in town visiting my parents so I got invited. I probably took the photo because I'm not in it, and I do have a vague memory of seeing Deb at one of these coffees, and I don't think I've seen her since. From the left: Francine, Deb, Nancy, Sylvia, Lynne, Marion.

Happy 50th Anniversary Sara and Bill

2009-10-10T18:01:00.001-05:00

Found! Another 8th grade trip photo

2009-09-27T05:38:00.006-05:00

Nancy S. has found and scanned another photo from our wonderful 8th grade trip to Chicago. What I remember about the Spring of 1953 is that it was time to shop for "big girl" clothes. We had graduation, the trip to Chicago, and the Lutherans had confirmation. Our mothers must have gone crazy! Here's Nancy and Bonnie W. in their new duds for the trip. Nancy had to remind me that the dog collar around her ankle meant she had a steady boyfriend. I don't remember that fad, but am taking her word for it. Here are some other photos of that trip.

Updating you on life after 70 for the Mt. Morris Class of 1957

2009-09-26T17:10:00.006-05:00

Nancy S. wrote a book and Bob C. did the proofreading.

Norma C. has twelve blogs, paints watercolors, volunteered for a recent bird watchers symposium, and toured the Holy Land in March.

Dave B. drives a school bus and enjoys their school sporting events and writes Bible studies.

Lynne F. walked over 600 miles this summer, is working part-time and is "dating" at 70 and still cranking out poetry. Also volunteers at the new Mt. Morris food pantry, Loaves and Fish.

Marion D. enjoys her grandchildren and looks after her mother.

Priscilla D. is a community activist currently trying to get a museum going and getting e-mail friendly.

Darlene H. has gone back to school to polish up skills.

Sharon G. made a remarkable recovery from a two year bout with serious health problems.

Glenn R. and Greely M. are recent cancer survivors with clean bills of health and are now enjoying golf and fishing.

Mike B. and Barb H. both moved into new homes.

Nancy L. is taking all four grandsons to Disneyland for Christmas (a sheer act of courage).

Phil E. helped his son with his lawn business this summer; he was seen in all neighborhoods mowing grass.

Fran K. recovered rapidly from all her summer surgeries and will be spending some of the winter in FL.

Sylvia T. is busy all over with her music skills and Dave S. keeps busy with the Border Collies (the smartest dogs in town).

Salley O. just keeps winning golf tournaments and making us all feel good in the process.

Moe and Nancy have given back to the earth with their planting and gentle care of the land, no small thing considering the size of their country home. And it doesn’t stop there with them, they have helped out others in their quest to restore the land.

It is true we have lost a few along the way. And some of us will face some health issues this coming year and decade but knowing what a tough bunch we are, we will draw on all the inner strength and faith we have and we will prevail.

That’s life . . . but what I’ve learned of life can be summed up in the phrase--“It goes on.”

You will want to watch this site for updates on classmates as they come about . . . both good and not so good. After all, it isn’t just about “they way we were,” but they way we are now. Stay well and always remember you are loved.

Submitted by Lynne

Class of 1957 is a winner

2009-09-26T16:56:00.003-05:00

in more ways than one. . . Salley wins golf classic. . . dateline Mattoon,IL from the Rockford Register Friday, September 25"

“It is the 8th title for Wessels, who is also a 13 time Greater Rockford Women's Golf Classic champion. Wessels led the field by 3 strokes at the beginning of Thursdays final round and held on to the lead to claim the title on a rain-soaked course. The 40th annual women’s tournament featured a full field of 120 players."Those of us that started golfing at around the same time (sometime in 7th or 8th grade) fell so far behind most of us just gave up the game! That does not alter the fact that we are enormously proud of Salley and judging from the buzz around town Friday so are a lot of town folk. I visited the Post Office, the grocery store and Senior Center for a flu shot and everyone was talking about it. It had a amazing ripple effect among those at the Senior Center. A real shot in the arm (pardon the pun). On a rainy day in late September it was a real spirit lifter. Thanks Salley for showing us the way to go.

Submitted by Lynne

The lost birthday party

2009-09-07T09:29:00.005-05:00

Here's a really fun photo of Nancy S.'s birthday party in 1952. She sent it to me in April and I'd forgotten it, but it's too cute not to post.

And I don't know about you, but I wouldn't mind losing a few birthdays!

Mt. Morris Times story about class tree

2009-09-03T14:48:00.008-05:00

"Members of the Mt. Morris High School Class of 1957 gathered on Kable Square Aug. 13 to dedicate a gift to the village."

"Members of the Mt. Morris High School Class of 1957 pose with the autumn blaze maple tree they donated to the village and dedicated Aug. 13. Pictured left to right are: Laurie Hough, daughter of Donald Hundertmark, Linda Hundertmark, Bob Coddington, Nancy Falzone, Dave Saunders, Priscilla Campbell, Lynne Wilburn, Greely Myers, Jeanne Scholl, Marian Thompson, and Sylvia Saunders." (Photo by Vinde Wells )

Memorial tree dedication

2009-08-20T04:45:00.007-05:00

Good Morning and welcome...

We gather this lovely summer morning to dedicate our Class of ‘57 Memorial Tree-an idea that sprang for the passing of our beloved German exchange student, Klaus Dreyer shortly after our 50th class reunion. Klaus was with us one short year but his impact on our world was profound...that year was 1955-56 one of those quality years of the golden 50's.

While consoling each other -the idea surfaced for planting a memorial tree-Today it stands before you-An Autumn Blaze Maple-10 feet tall.

...OUR TREE

FIRM IN THIS GOOD BROWN EARTH
SET WE OUR LITTLE TREE
COOL DEWS WILL FRESHEN IT
SUMMER SHOWERS WILL FEED IT
SUN WILL BE WARMING IT
AS WARMTH IS NEEDED.
WIND WILL BLOW ROUND IT FREELY
TAKE ROOT GOOD TREE!

SLOWLY, AS DAYS GO ON,
THESE BOUGHS WILL STOUTER BE,
LEAVES WILL UNFURL ON THEE,
AND WHEN SPRING COMES TO YOU
BIRDS MAY BUILD THERE,
SHADE OUTSRETCH,WIDE AND FREE-
GROW WELL, GOOD TREE!.
IN THIS GOOD BROWN EARTH.
So we dedicate our tree to:

Sharon Rothermel - Lovely, smart and troubled-she was our first devastating loss. We vowed to take better care of each other thereafter...

Larry Stiger, Duane Blake and Jerry Wagner - the quiet ones - not saying much but not missing much either. "Still waters run deep" is the old saying...and true.

Mary Lou Seay Saldecki-Pert - pretty, petite and blonde...having it all-she was a good and loyal friend.

Tomas Walker - or "Walk' as he liked to be called with his dark, slicked back hair in the Elvis duck tail. He'd be pleased to be remembered that way, I think

Libby Mayo Woody - Striking red head with a sprinkle of freckles and a hint of a southern accent-she was something!

Donald Hundertmark - Known affectionately as "the Don" by his co-workers, instilled with the strongest of work ethics but under that seemingly gruff exterior lay a kind and considerate soul.

Norman Garrison - Dear Norman .. world’s worst ukulele player but with a self deprecating sense of humor ..he was such a joy..his loss was the hardest to bear I think..

Klaus Dreyer - Charismatic, ever smiling, well mannered- he was Germany's bridge builder to a better, more peaceful world...we will never see the like of him again.

We ask God's blessing on our little tree...that it may grow...wide and tall-to reach the floor of heaven that they may look down and know that they are not forgotten.

Sylvia on bagpipes with "Amazing Grace"

Thank you Sylvia and Thank you all for sharing this wonderful day ... May God bless us all.. Lynne

Additional note from Lynne: "We had 14 at Breakfast and that was a lively time...The Mt. Morris TIMES was there for a photo and story."

Lynne, Priscilla and Marion at the breakfast meeting last Friday.

Priscilla, Jean and Salley with Nancy and Sylvia. "In spite of the solemn occasion to follow, much merry hearted laughter prevailed at this early hour breakfast." Photo and comments from Lynne

Autumn Blaze Maple selected for Class of 57 tree

2009-08-08T11:20:00.008-05:00

What: Class of '57 Memorial Tree Dedication
When: Friday, August 14th
Time: 9:30 AM
Place: Campus(south portion)
Optional: There will be an 8 a.m. breakfast prior to the dedication at Spring Valley Coffee Shop located across the railroad tracks east of Mt. Morris, just past Kable News Fulfillment and across from Finch Funeral Home.

There will be a photo op on the Campus and the local Mt. Morris TIMES has agreed to take a photo for the paper.

Come if you can. . . Hope to see you there. . . casual dress.

Lynne reports that "our" tree is 10 ft. tall. According to a web site I checked, "the Autumn Blaze is an extremely fast-growing maple with brilliant red fall color. Under good conditions it can grow 3 ft. or more per year. It is tolerant of clay soils and drought and has a dense, oval head with strong branching. Developed in North Central Ohio, this tree will grow in a wide range of climates from Michigan to central Florida. It grows 50 ft. high and 40 ft. wide."

A big thank you to all the class members who worked so hard getting this done.

Several class members (Bob, Lynne, Sylvia and Dave) assist the nursery crew in finding just the right spot for the Class of 57 tree, under the careful eye of Tess and Buddy, the Saunders' border collies.

"Nancy S. marks just the right spot of our memorial tree." Photo and comments by Lynne. Bandshell in background.

"Fresh in the ground, tall and straight." Photo and comments by Lynne. In the background is the dormitory from the college years, sold to become apartments after its closing in 1932.

We're proud of Salley!

2009-08-05T09:24:00.005-05:00

Salley loses out to a college kid 50 years her junior, but we’re still proud!

From the Rockford paper:

"Using borrowed clubs and a new putter [her clubs were stolen out of her car], Hui Chong Dofflemyer held off 13-time Greater Rockford Women’s Golf Classic champion Salley Wessels 1-up Tuesday at Forest Hills Country Club to get her shot at Brittany Atterbury in Thursday’s semifinals.

“Salley took me all the way to 18, and it wasn’t easy. I had to sink a 30-foot putt for birdie to win it,” said Dofflemyer, who has never won the Women’s City tourney. “I was just happy to get through against Salley. And now it won’t get any easier.”

Atterbury, the Northern Iowa University junior who shot a course-record 68 on Monday, had a hole-in-one on No. 4 and lipped out an eagle putt at six while knocking off Erin Gorman 2-and-1 to move on. After reaching the quarterfinals of the State Women’s Amateur this spring, Atterbury is now looking to improve on her First Flight victory in this last year’s tourney.

“I have been close in this tournament before, but it’s just never clicked all the way,” the 20-year-old said. “I’m playing solid, and I just have to keep playing my game. Hui Chong is a tough player, though. She grinded it out over Salley today, and that’s saying a lot.” "

HT Murray, Lynne and my brother-in-law who all forwarded Salley's story.

A poem for our birthdays

2009-07-24T08:06:00.006-05:00

Sybil, wife of Mort who writes the blog Octogenarian, wrote this on the occasion of her recent 80th birthday, but reading through it, I decided it sounds pretty much like turning 70. At the mini-reunion at Moe and Nancy's, three members of the class were rejoicing at being returned to friends and family after recent serious health problems. So for all of us, whatever our age this year (I think 1939 would probably win out as a birth year for our class), here's her poem. I missed the reunion, but when I was in MM at Easter having coffee with Nancy and Lynne, I know I heard the importance of friendship many, many times, which is really what Sybil decides too.

AN OCTOGENARIAN'S LAMENT

I look in the mirror and see a strange face.
Oh, surely this image is in the wrong place.

There should be a picture, alive and aglow,
A young pretty girl with no signs of woe.

But alas I see a woman, who's old and worn,
With wrinkles and lines from the cares she has borne.

It's hard to accept that never again
Will I get the glances of much younger men.

I really feel like I'm out of the loop.
The computer keyboard to me Looks like alphabet soup.

The mouse is erratic and just won't behave
And I never remember the key for work that you save.

I don't have a Blackberry, or play an Nintendo game
And all the hip-hop music to me sounds the same.

I'm even beginning to feel quite bitter
That I have no idea what it means to TWITTER!

And so like the poet I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high O'er vale and hill
when all at once I saw a crowd
Not of golden daffodils, but of my wonderful friends.

I really should tell ol' Wordsworth
That a friend brings more joy than a daffodil.
Your love and compassion have helped me through the years
As you have patiently listened to my woes and my fears.

So thank you and bless you for helping me celebrate my special day.
Your devotion means more to me than I can say.

I love you all.

---------------

Sybil gave permission to post this.

More mini-reunion photos

2009-07-20T18:19:00.015-05:00

Sara, Fran, Mary Jane and Sylvia enjoy the lovely weather and flowers

Sara's husband Bill and Dwayne.

Here's Bob C. chatting with Pat B., Nancy K., Nancy S., and Mary Jane F. Pat's husband Tom D. from class of 1956 at left.

Sylvia S. with the three Nancy's.

The guys sitting under a tree, l. to r. Fran's friend, Jim, Glenn R., Phil E., Diane's husband John T., Don F. husband of Nancy S., and Tom D., Pat's husband. Darlene H. in the foreground.

Enjoying the day are l. to r. Darlene, Donna wife of Glenn R., Diane B., Nancy L., Greely M., with Nancy S. in doorway.

Moe and Nancy's place has prairie grasses and wild flowers east of the house. Their 80 something neighbor still milks his cows and makes hay.

Photos from the mini-reunion

2009-07-11T05:59:00.018-05:00

Here are some photos and captions contributed by Nancy S., Sylvia T. and Lynne F. of the reunion and breakfast. What a gorgeous setting for a reunion! I'll add more as they are sent.

Lynne writes that the lake is man-made, in that Moe bought a back hoe and dug the lake himself. He also has a couple of marshs and recounted, when he took the group on the tour, the types of ducks, geese and other wildlife that enjoy the fruits of his hard work, pointing out all the different types of grasses and wild plants that call Moe's Lake their home. On the lake, hanging on a tree, is a rope swing for when the "grands' come and go swimming. Can't you just hear grandkids screaming and squealing as they let go of the rope and plunged into that cold lake water. It was a warm, sunny day but not hot for July 4th weekend and our hosts offered us plenty of shade.

With back to camera is Marion D., Jean M. in pink, Mary Jane F. in blue and white, Fran K. in raspberry, Lynne F. in red and Nancy S. in bright blue. Nancy keeps the lovely photo albums of our events--all 52 years worth of them. Her albums are class treasures.

Phil and Kay rest on Moe and Nancy's porch while visiting with the other guests. Kay you'll recall is class of 1958 and she and Phil dated in high school and have been married happily all these years.

The Nancys catch up on what's happening now.

Dave S. with his catch of the day! Kind hearted Dave hurried away to release the fish back into Moe's lake.

Pat B. and Darrell M. chat on the patio of Moe and Nancy's country home. The view and the flowers were spectacular. Lynne F. in the background talking with her hands, nothing much changes there!

Ebba L. arrives at the picnic all smiles. Note: Moe's corn in the background

Marion D. and Donna B. (Glenn's wife, class of 1959) enjoy the moment.

Our hostess Nancy G. chats with Sara Y.

Darlene H. and Ebba L. look for a spot to sit and talk.

Glenn R. and Nancy S's husband Don.

Greely looking fit after his recent surgery.

Here are Nancy L. and Lynne F. and Moe K. at the annual fire department breakfast. The class sat together and were greeted by many others returning for the festivities. The fire station had four tables decked in black and red (our school colors) with assorted Mounder memorabila such as cups, pencils and even key chains at each table. "They took good care of us... we did not want for a thing and it was appreciated," writes Lynne.

Another great reunion reports Nancy S.

2009-07-06T21:00:00.003-05:00

The class of 1957 met July 3, 2009, for its 52nd year reunion at the beautiful home of Moe and Nancy near Seward, IL. We started arriving at about 1:00 p.m. The committee helped Nancy with the finishing touches of tablecloths, lawn chairs and food preparation. The ledge around the inside of the garage worked out just perfect for a place for our food. Our hosts furnished the tea, coffee, lemonade and pop, and John and Marian furnished the roast pork.

The women classmates visited on the patio surrounded by beautiful flowers, and in a big circle under large tents out of the sun. The men were under a huge oak tree. Dave S. went fishing and came back with a 5 lb large mouth bass he caught on his third cast. He released it back into the lake. Moe said grace and we all ate together in a group. The food was wonderful and we were blessed with absolutely perfect weather.

Moe and Nancy have a beautiful view across the country to their lake with birds and I’m sure a lot of wild life. A baby rabbit or two were spotted. Moe took us on a tour of their beautiful home and showed us his collection of artwork and limited edition prints. He then took us on a caravan and we drove around his 4-acre lake where he has a duck refuge with duck blinds, deer blinds, boats, canoes, and a rope swing. Everyone enjoyed this trip through God’s country. For the next several hours all of us joined together for a fun time just talking and reminiscing. There were a lot of laughs and good conversation.

The 29 attending were Nancy L., Nancy S. and husband Don, Nancy and Moe, Darrell M., Glenn R. and wife Donna, Fran and friend, Diane B., Lynne F., Marian D. and husband John, Mary Jane & Dwayne, Pat B. and husband Tom, Sara Y. and husband Bill, Bob C., Jean M., Ebba L., Darlene H., Phil E. and wife Kay, Greeley M., Dave S. & Sylvia T. Everyone mingled and conversation was great. It was especially nice to see classmates, Diane, Fran, Greeley and Glenn, all of whom have had health issues recently and had surgery this year, but still came to visit with their classmates.

This get together could be described as possibly one of our best reunions. It was casual and relaxed. It may have been small in number but sometimes small groups are better. It was a very successful and fun day.

The next morning we all met again at the Mt. Morris Firemen’s breakfast. It was pouring rain, but I think that just added to the atmosphere and we all sat there several hours just talking and laughing together. It was just a great time. Every once in awhile someone from other classes would stop by to visit also. I am sure all will remember it well.

A perfect ending to a very successful get together for the Class of 57.

New trees for the campus

2009-06-29T13:03:00.003-05:00

Lynne tells me four new trees have been planted on the former campus of Mt. Morris College. There was a terrible storm in August 2008, and a large number of magnificent trees were lost--many were diseased and frail, but still beautiful and providing wonderful shade and respite. It certainly made the townspeople sad, especially after the recent loss of so many trees on Rt. 64/Hitt St. However, trees are not “natural” to this little mound in northern Illinois. According to the Mt. Morris Past and Present of 1900

"The present site of Mount Morris, as stated before, was an open prairie, with not a tree or a shrub to be found. What is now the college campus was then the crest of a hill of considerable size, the country sloping from it in all directions. The early settlers say that before the view was obstructed by buildings and trees, the altitude of the hill was very perceptible. The prairie grass was very rank. In fact, in some places it grew so luxuriantly that it was almost impassable. Most of the ravines and hollows were in a wet, boggy state; and the streams and ponds retained the water from rains much longer than now, because of the absence of tiling in the lowlands. There abounded hundreds of springs, which have long since ceased to flow, owing to the rapid drainage now effected by the work of tiling and the development of the soil."So, I don't know what the soil in mid-town Mt. Morris is like now, but I'm guessing it's well drained. However, last week I attended a program on the trees here at Lakeside, Ohio, which has a totally different type of soil--very rocky, as this is called the Marblehead Penninsula on Lake Erie (a body of water that has changed shape and size many times since the glaciers passed through here). Our speaker said that for every inch of trunk, the newly planted tree needs 5 gallons of water a week, plus 5 gallons. So if the tree is 2 inches, it needs 15 gallons of water a week to get a good start. There is no way those new trees can get that much naturally. But he told about a wonderful contraption called a tree gator--looks like an ugly green bag attached to the trunk. It holds 5 gallons, and you move it from tree to tree each day, and start over the next week. It's drip irrigation and won't drown the tree the way an impatient employee or volunteer might.

Newly planted trees are under severe water stress right after transplanting. And they will remain under water stress for the first several years after planting. Maintaining soil moisture is especially important during the first three years following transplanting. So how do you prevent transplant shock and avoid water stress on new trees? The answer is simple, Treegator® slow release watering system for trees. Treegator delivers a high volume of water directly to the root system of a newly planted tree.
Maybe this could be a project for the reunion committee.

Minnie Burke, mother of Donna

2009-06-25T09:06:00.003-05:00

When I was a little girl living on Hitt Street across from the Burke 66 station, I adored Mrs. Burke. Always smiling, always teasing, and always an encouraging word. A role model for all working women and business women.

MINNIE E. BURKE, 89 MOUNT MORRIS - Minnie E. Burke, 89, of Mount Morris died Tuesday, June 23, 2009, in Pinecrest Manor Nursing Home, Mount Morris. Born Oct. 28, 1919, in Mount Morris Township, daughter of John H. Diehl and Elizabeth (Rambough) Diehl. Graduate of Mount Morris High School, class of 1937. Married Vernon E. Burke on Aug. 20, 1938, in Clayton County, Iowa; he died Dec. 1, 1975. Along with her husband, she managed and operated Burke's 66 Service. After her husband's death, she worked as a returns clerk at Kable News Co. in Mount Morris. Life member of the Women of the Moose, Mount Morris Moose VFW Auxiliary and American Legion Auxiliary. Survivors include daughters, Donna (Richard) Satterfield of Fort Collins, Colo., Denise (William) Walsh of Durand; sons, Steve (Barb) Burke and Stan (Angie) Burke of Mount Morris; nine grandchildren; 27 great-grand-children; four great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Lois Mongan of Mount Morris, Rose Egland of California, Betty Martinson of Malta, Marcia Hill of Rochelle; sister-in-law, Ada Diehl of Mount Morris; and special friend, Phyllis Brown of Mount Morris. Predeceased by husband; brother, Don Diehl; and granddaughter, Sherri Lynne. Service at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 27, in Finch Funeral Home, 405 E. Hitt St., Mount Morris. Burial in Oakwood Cemetery in Mount Morris. Visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 26, in the funeral home. Memorials to Pinecrest Manor of Ogle County Hospice.

Our sympathy to the Coddington family

2009-06-09T13:38:00.004-05:00

The step-mother of our classmate Bob, Elvira Marcella Coddington, 91, of Mount Morris died Thursday, June 4, 2009, in Rockford Memorial Hospital, Rockford. Born Sept. 17, 1917, in Benedict, N.D., the daughter of William and Martha (Umbach) Krebsbach. Graduated from Belvidere High School, Class of 1936. Married Bert Coddington on Aug. 28, 1948, in Belvidere; he died Feb. 6, 1995. Lived in Mount Morris since 1948, coming from Belvidere. She was employed as an accounting clerk in the accounts receivable department at McGregor Magazine Agency for 38 years, retiring in May 1987. Attended Trinity Lutheran Church. Member of Women of the Moose Chapter 485 and Mount Morris Senior Center. Survivors include stepson, Robert Coddington of Mount Morris; stepdaughters, Shirley Hackbarth of Jacksonville, Fla., and Donna (Tim) Sassaman of Hot Springs, Ark.; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; brother, Ardell Krebsbach of Belvidere. Predeceased also by parents; and brothers, Arvine, Arbay, Arley and Arzell Krebsbach. Service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 10, in Finch Funeral Home, 405 E. Hitt St., with Frank Lay officiating. Burial in Plainview Cemetery. Visitation from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, June 9, in the funeral home, with Women of the Moose Service at 8:30 p.m. Memorials to Moose charities.

Mark Rowe, son of Glenn and Donna

2009-06-04T13:30:00.004-05:00

We were all so sorry to learn of the death of Mark Rowe of Lanark, son of classmate Glenn and his wife Donna. The following is from the Freeport paper.

Mark L. Rowe, 50, of Lanark died Monday, June 1, 2009, at his home.He was born April 3, 1959, in Dixon, a son of Glenn and Donna (Bearden) Rowe. Mark married Kim Hazlip on Jan. 27, 1983, in Mount Morris. Mr. Rowe was employed at Quebecor World in Mount Morris.Survivors include his wife, Kim of Lanark; one daughter, April Miller of Tennessee; one son, Mark R. Rowe of Lanark; parents, Glenn and Donna Rowe of North Carolina; one sister, Margo Smietana of New York; two brothers, Marty Rowe of Polo and Matt Rowe of Lanark; and two grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ottis and Josephine Bearden and Mike and Eleja Rowe.There will be no visitation.A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 6, at Polo Family Funeral Home, Polo, with the Rev. Jeremy Heller, officating. Burial will be at a later date.A memorial fund has been established in his memory.

Upcoming reunion July 3

2009-06-01T19:46:00.003-05:00

After the next reunion which is just about a month away, we hope to post a few photos. You should all have received your invitation and map, and I think at last count there were 19 planning to attend. Then the blog will close and no new material will be added; it has served its purpose. If you'd like to save any of the photos here, place your cursor on the photo, and right click. Then click on "save picture as. . .", select a file from your Picture folder, name the photo and click on save. Just to be safe, double check your file to make sure it's actually there. It's been fun and I thank everyone who sent photos and stories.

We'll see you in July

2009-05-29T12:50:00.003-05:00

"Hi Kids!

Time is drawing near for our picnic event at Moe and Nancy's. All final plans were made last week. . . all is in readiness." Writes classmate Lynne.

"As we get ready to party together. . . our classmate Greeley is having another type of event. On June 1st our Greeley will be having some colon cancer surgery. His cancer is well contained and the outlook for a complete recovery looks good indeed. I was able to have a visit with "G G" and give him some support having "been there, done that" nearly 8 years ago. But no matter how many times you hear, "If I can do it, you can do it," it is still an unsettling thing, to be sure. If anyone would like to send Greeley a note of encouragement and give him some grins, I am sure he will appreciate it. . .and Greeley has asked for prayers. He is planning on attending our July 3rd picnic. If you need an address e-mail me (lflemingwilburn at yahoo dot com) and I will provide or check your class booklet from the last reunion it should be in there.

Diane B. is currently recovering from a broken ankle at Pinecrest. . .she is our first classmate to take up residence there, however temporary it might be. . . a doubtful honor to be sure. She is undergoing therapy and some of us visited her last week to find her doing as well as could be expected. . . but bored. She, too, could use some cheering and some "atta girl" pats on the back.

I spoke with Fran today, and she is doing very well. But after 3 surgeries since October she is not really looking forward to her fourth on June 3rd. The fact that none of the surgeries found any cancer is a positive thing and she is grateful. She has one more surgery to go to remover the growth on the kidney, which she will now be able to keep and be done with hospitals. She has had a long bout, but you know Fran. Today she cheered me up! She has heard from many classmates and thanks us all for our thoughtfulness saying, "it means a lot, believe me!"

All three of these stars from the Class of '57 plan to attend our July 3rd picnic, as Fran and Greeley both said, "I'll be there if I have to crawl," and Diane said she'd probably have to hop! Again, if addresses are needed for any or all of three let me know. . .

See you in July.

A note from President Mike

2009-05-25T17:49:00.002-05:00

Mike and Judy will not be able to attend the mini-reunion at Nancy and Moe's this summer, but they send their regards to everyone. They are in the middle of a move to Missouri and selling their home in Michigan. If you'd like to see what they are doing, check out their new blog (not the same as their old blog). I've looked around their new digs (on the internet) and it looks a lot like Mt. Morris to me.

Dr. Albert Sherwood Baker, 1916-2009

2009-05-19T12:10:00.007-05:00

Another fine member of the "greatest generation" that many of us knew is gone. Many years ago, your family doctor may have been Dr. Baker, who after WWII returned to Mt. Morris and was originally in practice with Dr. Murray Dumont (who delivered me and probably others in our class of 57). From the Columbia Daily Tribune obituary:

"Albert Sherwood Baker, M.D., 92, of Mount Morris, Ill., formerly of Columbia, died Friday, May 8, 2009. Memorial services and visitation were Wednesday, May 13, at Disciples United Methodist Church in Mount Morris. The cremated remains will be buried at Cedar Hill Cemetery rural Mount Morris, located on a corner of the Baker family farm.

Dr. Baker was born Dec. 1, 1916. He attended primary and secondary school in Mount Morris, graduated with an AB degree from Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, in 1939 and the University of Illinois School of Medicine in Chicago in 1942. He completed a 12-month rotation internship at Cook County Hospital in Chicago before serving as a captain in the U.S. Army Air Forces at Jefferson Barracks and Scott Field, Ill., from 1943 to 1946.
After World War II, Dr. Baker returned to his home town of Mount Morris to work as a general practitioner from 1946 to 1963. During this time, he was a member of the medical staff at Rockford Memorial Hospital. In 1963, he joined the faculty at the University of Missouri, where he helped develop their rural preceptorship program for medical students and served as chief, Section of Medical Practice.

In 1967, he traveled to Thailand to study the public health training needs of Peace Corps volunteers. That same year, he spent three months helping to train Peace Corps volunteers in Hilo, Hawaii. He received a Master of Science in public health degree from MU in 1968.
Dr. Baker initiated the campaign to establish a family medicine residency in Columbia in 1969, shortly after the American Board of Family Practice was created, and served as MU’s first family medicine residency director from 1970 to 1974. From 1972 to 1975, he served as chairman of the Department of Community Health and Medical Practice at MU. Dr. Baker was a charter member of the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine and one of the early Residency Assistance Program consultants. He retired from MU in 1982 and was named professor emeritus.
Dr. Baker is considered by many to be “the father of family medicine” at MU. He was known and admired for his common-sense approach to primary care, his sage advice and his incredible breadth and depth of knowledge that extended well beyond medicine. He claimed this was the benefit of having a photographic memory that served him exceedingly well until the end of his long life.

One on his great joys was publishing a book titled “Dear Gang,” in which he recounted the story of 12 of his AKK medical school fraternity brothers who corresponded with one another by letters during World War II. It chronicles their experience of military medicine in the 1940s, whether stateside, in the Pacific or European theatres, as well as the importance of deep and lasting friendship.

Dr. Baker served as a troop leader for the Boy Scouts of America in Mount Morris and was honored to receive the Silver Beaver award for meritorious service. He was a member of Kiwanis and Community United Methodist Church in Columbia from 1963 to 2004. Because of failing health, he moved to Pinecrest Community in Mount Morris in 2004 and joined Disciples United Methodist Church. There, he was affectionately known as “Doc.”

Survivors include a brother, Harlan (Marion); daughters Edith Baker Lauerman (Bruce), Martha Baker Thomas (Mike) and Nancy Baker (Dan); grandchildren Randy Fawcett (Stephanie), Grant Fawcett (Marne), Sara Crow, and Karl and Anna Olson; and great-grandchildren Sadie Fawcett, Driscoll Fawcett, Hattie Fawcett, and Braxton Lauerman. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Myrtle Miriam Schafmayer Baker; brother Edward Francis Baker; father Harry Hammer Baker; and mother Bertha Alberta Tholen Baker.

HT Murray Trout

A Spring Poem

2009-05-09T17:56:00.000-05:00

Spring.
A time of sowing
and growing.
Seeds in the earth.
Thoughts in the mind.
Germination.
Imagination.
Cultivation.
Caring
Raindrops feeding.
Love encouraging.
Seedlings sprouting.
Friendship supporting.
Sun Warming.
Faith Comforting.
Flowers blooming.
Spirits refreshed.
Spring.

by Lynne

Scarce as hen's teeth

2009-04-28T07:31:00.006-05:00

Did your parents ever say that? Well, the original Mount Morris Past and Present is scarce as hen's teeth, but I found a scanned copy on the internet while looking up something else. Here's the link. You click on the picture at the top hand left column and start turning the pages with the little arrows in the right hand column. It's scanned and very easy to use (easier than the copy on Google because you can turn the pages). I have the photocopy of the 2nd ed. (gift of my parents) that was sold by the public library, and recently looked through the 1st edition at the home of a relative. Anyway, although a lot of the text of the 1st ed. is used in the 2nd ed., a lot was also dropped, including photos of the campus buildings. After all, they had a lot more information and names to include 30 years later, and probably had a page limit to keep costs down. Any way, take a look. When I was a kid I spent hours browsing the two Mount Morris Past and Present titles. It was fun to find it again on the internet.

Eighth grade class photo on school steps

2009-04-26T17:50:00.004-05:00

Sent by Nancy S. Can you identify everyone?

Go Team!

2009-04-20T12:50:00.002-05:00

This is from the 1954 Mounder which accounts for the poor scan quality. I can identify Sara jumping up--I guess we know why she was a cheerleader! I think that's Tina and Mary Lou on her left, and possibly Deb next to the person in black with her head turned on Sara's right. The person in front of Tina might be me, but it's hard to tell. Libby M. possibly in the front row. That's Nancy L. 2nd from the left edge of the photo, and possibly Barb E. behind her, with Nelson P. and Marv M. a few rows back. Up near the top is Steve B. Get out your annual and look at the page sponsored by Houghton and Buser, and see if your eyes are better than mine. It's a pretty small photo. I'm always surprised when I look at these old photos how much better dressed we were than today's teen-agers, and on a smaller budget, too!