NC60sALUMNI's Xanga

Friday, November 13, 2009

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:03:14 GMT

Welcome
to the
Northwest
College
60's Alumni Place

We've been promoted! We are now alums of...

NORTHWEST UNIVERSITY

To listen to our Alma Mater sung by 60's alum, click the little start button above

60s Alumni Reunion/Retreat
July 24-26, 2009
at
Vandenburg Campground in Sedro-Woolley, Washington

There were 38 of us who remained for the final service of the retreat, which was a praise and communion service on Sunday morning. What a powerful conclusion to a WONDERFUL weekend. Click on the links below to see pictures from the reunion weekend, to read an inspiring testimonial, check the complete list of 2009 attendees, and see the promo banner for the 2010 Reunion.

[ List of 2009 Attendees ] [ 2009 reunion photo diary ] [ A Testimonial ] [ 2010 Reunion dates ] [Lidstrom Testimony Video]

Your 60's Reunion coordinators...
Elvin & Eunice Huston

For more about Elvin & Eunice see our home page.

We are delighted when classmates connect. The Internet has become a powerful tool for finding old friends. We want you to be aware of another place to interact with NU Alumni friends. We now have a Northwest 60s Alumni presence on Facebook. If you do not yet have a facebook account, I would like to invite you to join. All you need to do is go to facebook.com and create an account using your email address as your user name. Then you can create a profile with as much or as little information as you please. We hope that you will upload a profile photo there. Next you can begin connecting with friends. Try typing my name, Elvin Huston, into the facebook search window. When you find me, click on "add as friend". You can also click on my list of friends, and invite any of my friends to be your friends. Very soon, you will be connected with many of your old Northwest classmates. You will be able to see their pictures, post notes on their walls, etc., etc., etc. Of course, we hope that you will join our 60s alumni group called: "Northwest University 1960s Alumni & Friends". Once you join the 60s group, you can look at a lot of pictures from the 2008 & 2009 reunions. Also, you can click on "Events", and then click on "NU Alumni of the 60s Reunion", for interaction concerning our upcoming 2010 Reunion. On that event page, you can indicate your plans to attend, or not. You can also post a note for your classmates to see. The facebook format is very interactive. Once you find your way around I think you will really enjoy it.

SITE TABLE OF CONTENTS
(CLICK ON ANY BLUE UNDERLINED TEXT TO OPEN THE CORRESPONDING ARTICLE)

* MS. IDAHO SENIOR AMERICA 2009 DiAnne (Crowell) Wilson (posted Nov. 10, 2009)
* KATE SELIG COLLINS TRIBUTE (posted Nov. 8, 2009)
* WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Information about 60's classmates (Classmates added Nov. 13, 2009)
* ALUMNI PRAYER NEEDS (updated Oct. 9, 2009)
* DALE LIDSTROM UPDATE (Itinerary updated Oct. 1, 2009)
* DALE & PHYLLIS LARSON MINISTER IN THAILAND (posted April 23, 2009)
* ROSIE (NORDBY) DEWEY bad news / good news story (posted January 26, 2009)
* LINFIELD CROWDER health update (updated Nov. 7, 2009)
* CHARLES "CHUCK" MORTON home with the Lord (posted January 10, 2009)
* STORY ABOUT MOM WHEELER class of '38 (posted January 9, 2009)
* MEMORIAL PAGE Remembering departed classmates (Wayland Waggoner story added Nov.10, 2009)
* GIRLFRIENDS MEET IN NEBRASKA (posted 8/25/2008)
* SECRIST / WHEELER WEDDING (updated 4/27/2008)
* ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR AWARD - October 2007
* HUSTON / WHEELER WEDDING April 21, 2007
* HOWARD THOMPSON'S WIFE & SISTER DIE (Posted Feb 2006)
* HUSBAND OF ALUM SURVIVES HELICOPTER CRASH Oct 2005 - (Addendum 4/29/2008)
* VERNA (IRHKE) DITTY & JR BIBLE QUIZ CHAMPS - Summer 2005
* OWEN WILKIE STORY Summer 2005
* WITNESSES TRIO TOGETHER AGAIN MAY 2005
* 2004 REUNION PHOTO DIARY (POSTED 12/1/2008)
* 2005 ALUMNI HYMNSING (MAY) - (Audio added 5/26/08)
* 2006 CHORALON'S REUNION OCTOBER 13-14, 2006
* 2008 REUNION PHOTO DIARY 42 pictures from last year's reunion (Posted June 2, 2009)
* 2009 REUNION PHOTO DIARY
* WHO HAS ATTENDED RECENT 60'S ALUMNI REUNIONS? | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 |
* THE SEDRO-WOOLLEY CONNECTION - (Story revised 4/17/2008)

FEEDBACK - Please send an email to report any problems or malfunctions you may encounter when accessing or navigating this site. email us

Reunion 2008

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:00:40 GMT

GROUP PHOTO
from the
REUNION OF THE ALUMNI OF THE 60S
July 26, 2008

What a fantastic weekend with the Northwest University Alumni of the 60's! Here is a picture of the group taken just before the afternoon session on Saturday. How many of these 60's era classmates can you identify? We were honored to have the current president of Northwest University, Dr. Joseph Castleberry (front and center) as our guest.

Click here to view a gallery of photos from the 2008 60s Alumni Reunion

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:58:36 GMT

"For He has made Him who knew no sin
to be sin for us, that we might become
the righteousness of God in Him."

2 Corinthians 5:21

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:58:17 GMT

10/16/08

Counsel from an Eternal Perspective
I John 2:15-17

15) Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life --- is not of the Father but is of the world.
17) And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.

Bullock Praise Report

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:29:56 GMT

PRAISE REPORT: Thu. Aug. 14, 2008

Judi (Versolenko) Bullock (picture here sharing her story at the 2005 Alumni Reunion), went through surgery for breast cancer in 2002, followed by 7 months of Chemotherapy. Since that time she has been cancer free, but has routine blood tests every 6 months. When she met with her doctor on July 15, 2008, following her latest blood work, the doctor indicated that there was a minor change this time. Upon a physical examination a lump was found. Subsequently she has undergone an ultra sound on the lump (it was determined to be benign) , a bone scan, another CAT scan, followed more blood work on August 5th.

In an email on Wednesday, August 13, 2008, Judi wrote:

"Dear Prayer team:
I just heard from my Oncologist and my blood test was normal this last time!!! Praise God. The bone-scan only showed a little bit of arthritis no cancer. We are rejoicing in the Lord, to finally be thru with all these test. God again has been faithful and has shown me that He healed me once and for all!!!

Also my mother is doing alot better, and is starting to get over this horrible Bronchitius that she has had for two weeks. Keep praying for her

Thank you for your faithfulness

Pastor and Judi Bullock"

Friday, May 18, 2007

Fri, 18 May 2007 23:25:45 GMT

New Photo Added 4/2/2008

60's Alumni Reunion
July 27-29, 2007
Vandenburg Campground - Sedro-Woolley, WA

Elvin Huston and Ray Sparre lead singing in the Saturday afternoon session, but before that, there's fellowship and food!

Larry Martin, visits with Calvin & Linda White. In the background, Marvin Kvamme and Charles (Chuck) Peterson in the background.

Lucy (Hafelfinger) Hartman, her sister Freida (Hafelfinger) Pratt, and Lola (Rice) Cain, look through old Northwest yearbooks.

Darrell & Cheryl (Remington) Erickson visit with Becki (Selig) Sparre.

Rick Ruchty, Jane (Fowler) Downing, and Cherie (Miller) Ruchty

Marv Kvamme, and our host, Danny Vandenburg show their skills on the open flame barbeque grill.

Rick Ruchty, and Genny (Wheeler) Benintendi, load their plates while Dale Larson seems unaware that it's lunch time.

These folks know the secret of eating and talking at the same time. On the left side of the table are, Jennifer Fetter's, (Pam (Tutmarc) Fetter's Daugher) John Fox and young daughter, Miriam (Gibson) Wood, and Mary (Philp) McMullen. On the right side of the table starting nearest are, Lola (Rice) Cain, Gary & Lucy (Hafelfinger) Hartman, and James & Freida (Hafelfinger) Pratt.

It's time for the afternoon session ...

Roy & Arlene (Wheeler) Brewer, share a little music, and humor to liven things up.

About 75 NU alumni from the 60's and friends enjoy the Saturday afternoon songfest.

By request, Elvin and Ray do their "two-on-one" guitar duet again.

Anita (Green) Wheeler and Lola (Rice) Cain join Elvin and Ray for an old spiritual.

Another impromptu quartet made up of Jim Harris, Roy Brewer, Elvin Huston and Dave Selig, work their harmony.

Elvin's new Mother-in-law, Genevieve (Alexander) Wheeler of the class of 1937 gets up to sing and testify.

Here, Elvin Huston, Paul Tappero, Calvin White and Dave Edstrom try an impromptu Quartet number.

Jim & Murial (Hanson) Harris from Spokane sing a duet.

Host Danny Vandenburg added new shelters since last reunion.

One of the fun things to do at Vandenburg Campground is to ride Danny's Cable Chair. Here, Northwest University Alumni President, John Fox takes the plunge.

This is old hat for George Mull!

At 89, Genevieve (Alexander) Wheeler, Mother of 60's alums, Arlene, Paul, Genny, and Eunice shows she's still young at heart.

Genevieve Wheeler Northwest Bible Institute class of '37 rides the Heaven Bound chair.

Host Danny Vandenburg shows Dave Edstrom, Marv Kvamme and Ray Sparre his latest chainsaw art project.

SUNDAY MORNING

A nice group of about 40 stay over for the Sunday Morning Service. . .

Elvin calls the the group together for our last meeting of the weekend.

Before we concluded with a communion service, Dan Secrist brought a challenging and inspiring message on the theme, "Living Forward".

Who attended this year?

ALUMNI:
Baldwin, Dennis & Evelyn (Smith) '69 - Kuna, ID
Benintendi, Ed & Genny (Wheeler) - Kirkland, WA
Berry, Carol (Baunsgard) – Marysville, WA
Brewer, Roy & Arlene (Wheeler) – Graham, WA
Boyd, Lyn (Baunsgard) - Monroe, WA
Buchanan, Anita (Benskin) - Port Orchard, WA
Cain, Lola (Rice) - Olympia, WA
Coggins, Wayne & Marveen - Nikiski, AK
Coulson, Karen (Larson) '67 - Olympia, WA
Downing, Janie (Fowler) - Beijing, China
Dyal, John & Bev (Phinney) – Olympia, WA
Edstrom, Dave & Shirley – Lake Stevens, WA
Erickson, Darrell & Cheryl (Remington) - Lynwood, WA
Fetters, Pam & Jennifer – Kenmore, WA
Fox, John - (NU Alumni President)
Harris, Jim and Muriel (Hanson) - Spokane, WA
Harrison, Dave & Sherry - Arlington, WA
Hartman, Gary & Lucy (Hafelfinger) - Wenatchee, WA
Huston, Elvin & Eunice (Wheeler) - American Falls, ID
Johnston, Bob & Linda (Williams) – Seattle, WA
Kruger, Diana (Savage) - Maple Valley, WA
Kvamme, Marv & Iva (Walters) – Gig Harbor, WA
Lake, Darrell & Charlotte (Leuhrs) – Eagle, ID
Larson, Dale & Phyllis (Danielson) - Woodinville, WA
Martin, Larry
McMullen, Mary (Philp) - Everett, WA
Metcalf, Wil & Nel – Renton, WA
Mull, George – Selah, WA
Peterson, Charles - Lynnwood, WA
Pratt, James & Fredia (Hafelfinger) - Stevensville, MT
Ruchty, Rick & Cherie (Miller) - Marysville, WA
Secrist, Dan – Lacey, WA
Selig, Dave & Dolores – Columbia Falls, MT
Sparre, Ray & Becki (Selig) – Molalla, OR
Tappero, Paul & Thelma (Wilton) - Fruitland, WA
Wheeler, Genevieve (Alexander) Class of '38 - Wilmington, NC
Wheeler, Anita (Green) - Keizer, OR
White, Calvin & Linda – Port Ludlow, WA
Wood, Miriam (Gibson) - Bow, WA

PROFESSORS & STAFF:
Thee, Francis & Mary - Kirkland, WA
Gustafson, Phil & Roberta, Kirkland, WA

GUESTS: (Non-alumni attendees)
Vandenburg, Danny & LaVonda - Sedro-Woolley (Our Hosts)
Cannon, Rev. Jim & Terri - Sedro-Woolley - (Pastor Bethel Assembly)
Craig, Bob & Kay - Eagle Point, OR - (Friends of Elvin & Eunice)
Hagen, Bev - (former youth director Bethel Assembly)
Huston, Ron - Sedro-Woolley, WA - (Elvin's Brother)

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Sun, 30 Jul 2006 08:07:42 GMT

(Article Updated 8/5/06)

60's Alumni Reunion
July 21-23, 2006
Was a fabulous success!

Of the nearly 120 people participating in this years reunion/retreat, about 30 of them were first time attenders. (You can see a list of those participating in the article following this one entitled, "Who Attended Reunion 2006?".

Following a delightful Potluck picnic an an hour of one-on-one fellowship around the picnic tables, Coordinator, Elvin Huston opened the afternoon session by welcoming the attendees, and introducing all the first timers.

After a brief time of group singing, Dale & Phyllis (Danielson) Larson, of Woodinville, WA., started out the afternoon musical program with a beautiful duet.

Roy and Arlene (Wheeler) Brewer, for whom the 2006 reunion was their first, came and shared two inspiring songs, and some delightful and humorous reflections. Roy and Arlene are known around the northwest and elsewhere, as they have ministered for years as evangelist among the churches, and in camps and conventions. For many years, Roy served as the District Youth Director for the Montana District.
Over the last several months, Roy has been through several serious physical challenges, including triple bypass surgery. With gratitude for all the prayers of their fellow alumni, Roy and Arlene are back on the road, ministering among the churches. It was a great delight to have these friends with us for the entire weekend.

Following their presentation, Roy introduced a trio of girls from Northwest College who served with them in Youth Camps in the summer of 1968. These girls had a very close and special bond with the Brewers, which added a special dimension to this years get together for them.

We had the pleasure of hearing the Treble-Heirs last Summer, when they came together for the first time in 37 years at Reunion 2005.

One of the most eagerly anticipated artists and musicians in our Saturday programs for the past five years has been Gary Liden. People just can't get enough of Gary's incredible mix of "on the edge" humor, unique lyrics, and skillful guitar artistry. This year Gary played a beautiful guitar solo, and repeated two of his all time favorite original songs, "The Song for the Non-Tither", and "I Am A Smooth Man".
The Scripture says, "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine". Gary is our "60's Alumni Reunion Medicine Man"! Thanks Gary, we needed that!

Now for another 60's Alumni Reunion "FIRST" ... the first time ever reunion of "The Gladnotes Trio"!

"THE GLADNOTES TRIO" traveled and sang in 1962 and 1963, and was comprised of Sharon ("Roni" Buck) White of Meridian, ID., Jan (Wingett-Finke) LeCrone of Cameron Park, CA., Miriam (Gibson) Wood of Bow, WA., and pianist, Kathy (Eshom) Halvorsen of Oroville, WA. Joining the trio, and singing alto along with Jan, was Sharon's Sister, Charm (Buck-Arneson) Riemer of Marysville, WA.

It was obvious that 42 years had not taken away these ladies ability to sing and harmonize. Sharon said, "We're celebrities, 'cause my girlfriend, Sandy (Searcy) Stage came all the way from New York, just to hear us sing"!

There are no words to express what a delight it is, for members of a group like this, when they come together and sing again for the first time!

Following the musical presentation of the Gladnotes, Jan & Mel LeCrone, took time to share the inspiring story of God's providence in bringing the two of them together. Jan's late husband, missionary aviator, Bill Finke was killed in a helicopter accident in July of 2004. Mel's wife of 55 years had passed away also.
Mel and Jan took turns telling how the Lord worked in each of their lives to bring them to the same church, into the same class. They took us on a verbal walk through their struggle with grief and loss, and the unique ways that God worked to prepare them to marry again. They shared the delightful story of how they met, and how their relationship developed, leading to their marriage in April of 2005.

When Jan & Mel finished their story, Marshall Ellison played a beautiful song called, "The Prayer."
Marshall has played a central roll in this reunion movement, having hosted the very first gathering in Olympia, and having participated in every one since that time. His skillful and anointed piano artistry has been a wonderful, wonderful blessing to all of us through the years. Thank you Marshall!

Ray Sparre and Elvin Huston took a few minutes for some light hearted reflections about getting older. The songs they sing today are different because, instead of singing at youth rallies, they now sing at Senior's Banquets, Nursing Homes, and ... College Reunions! (selah)

Ray and Elvin sang a song that Ray wrote called, "You Only Get One Shot at Bein' Old".
Then Ray introduced a poem written by Linfield Crowder's best friend, Jim Davis. Having put the words of Jim's poem to music, Ray invited his wife, Becki to help him perform it.

Following the theme of "getting old", Elvin called Linfield Crowder forward, pointing out that Dr. Crowder had been around for as long as any of us could remember. "How old actually ARE you, Dr. Crowder?"

His first response was to say, "Don't get old, you won't like it!" For the next five minutes, Dr. Crowder delighted the guests with an hilarious monologue describing just how old he really is! For example, he said, "I'm so old, that when I was a little boy, the Statue of Liberty was just a little girl." "Matter of fact", he said, "I'm so old, that when I was a little boy, the Dead Sea was only SICK." After a whole series of one liners, he broke into song, singing ...

"I was born ten thousand years ago;
There's nothin' in this world that I don't know.
I saw Abraham & Moses,
Playing Ring Around The Roses;
And I'll lick the man who says it isn't so."

MORE LATER ....

Friday, September 16, 2005

Fri, 16 Sep 2005 02:56:05 GMT

(New photos added 10/03/05)

The 2005 Reunion story with pictures.

As the Saturday afternoon session got underway, the Treble-Heirs Trio, along with Elvin Huston, Gene and Mary Casper, and Anita Buchanan led the group in some spirited singing, accompanied by Marshall Ellison on Keyboard, Gary Liden on Guitar, and two local guys, Chris & Jesse on Drums and Bass.

Here, Elvin introduces the Hosts of the reunion to the alumni present. This is the third year this lovely couple has donated their campground for the use of the 60's Alumni.

One of the highlights of the Saturday afternoon session was the appearance of the Treble-Heirs Trio. This was the first time for these girls to sing together since they traveled for the College in the summer of 1968. The trio introduced themselves as though it were 1968, and sang four songs from their album, "I've Got A Melody".

We were happy, also, to have Warren and Judy (Versolenko) Bullock participate in the afternoon session. Warren brought a greeting, and Judy took some time to share her spiritual journey through a lengthy struggle with breast cancer. Her story was moving and very faith inspiring. Warren has been on the staff of Northwest University over the years, and also served for a time as Superintendent of the Northwest District of The Assemblies of God. He is currently on staff at New Life in Renton, WA.

We were also honored on Saturday afternoon to have our former English Professor, Frank Rice address the alumni. Doctor Rice came to Northwest from Texas in 1962. In his address to the alumni, he reflected upon those early days at Northwest College, and the close bond that he experienced with the students in those days, especially with the freshman class of 1962. In calling to mind the many years that have passed since we were in college, he spoke of the challenges, and the trials that have been experienced by many. He reflected upon his own grief and the painful journey through the loss of his dear wife and soul mate. He reminded us that the losses here are not really losses, but they are the transfer of our treasures, which now await us in heaven. They are added motivation for us to finish our course. Some call it , "Pie in the sky", but Dr. Rice reminded us that "Pie in the sky sure beats fire down below."

When Dr. Rice concluded his remarks, the group broke into a spontaneous ovation in an expression of their respect and admiration for this man who, once again, touched our lives with his quiet, strong faith.

Below is a variety of pictures taken at the reunion. Some of the photos have been labeled with the names of the principal individuals pictured. If you want a closer look you may click on the picture to enlarge it.

Wednesday, August 24, 2005

Wed, 24 Aug 2005 02:08:16 GMT

WHO CAME TO THE REUNION?

August 12, 13, & 14, 2005

Sedro-Woolley, WA

ALUMNI who attended: REVISED 8/23/2005 72

Aleman, Jorge & Carrie (Shepherd) - McMinnville, OR
Arneson, Jim
Becker, Judy (Henning) - Federal Way, WA

Berry, Carol (Baunsgard) - Marysville, WA
Buchanan, Anita (Benskin) - Port Orchard, WA

Bullock, Warren & Judi (Versolenko) - Kenmore, WA
Crabtree, Tom - Everson, WA
Casper, Gene & Mary (Raybuck) - Renton, WA

Downing, Janie (Fowler) - Beijing, China

Dyal, John & Bev (Phinney) - Olympia, WA

Edstrom, Dave & Shirley - Lake Stevens, WA
Ellison, Marshall & Gerry - Olympia, WA

Fetters, Pam (Tutmarc) -
Fetters, Jennifer -

Graf, George & Terri (Dodge) - Burien, WA

Hardy, Larry & Juanita (Hoag) - Renton, WA

Harrison, Dave & Sherry - Brazil

Hoskins, Howard - Culdesac, ID
Huebner, Frank & Vickie - Renton, WA

Huston, Elvin - Shady Cove, OR

Johnston, Bob & Linda (Williams) - Seattle, WA
Jones, Don & Karen - Bellevue, WA

King, Bill & Willamae (Renfroe) - Yakima, WA
Kruger, Diana (Savage) - Renton, WA

Kvamme, Marvin & Iva (Walters) - Gig Harbor, WA

Liden, Gary - Olympia, WA

McMullen, Mary (Philp) - Everett, WA

Meissner, Joy (Flugekvam) - Mukilteo, WA

Metcalf, Wil - Renton, WA

Mull, George - Selah, WA

Newby, Byron - Lake Stevens, WA

Nicholson, Earnie - Snohomish, WA
Peterson, Charles - Lynwood, WA
Powers, Sandra (Christopherson) - Renton, WA

Rody, Marvin & Doris - Ferndale, WA

Ruchty, Rick & Cherie (Miller) - Marysville, WA

Selig, Dave & Delores - Columbia Falls, MT
Sparre, Ray & Becki (Selig) - Molalla, OR

Stage, Bob & Sandy (Searcy) - New York

Struthers, Ray & Sandy - Bothel, WA
Tappero, Paul & Thelma (Wilton) - Maple Valley, WA
Tappero, Ward & Janice (Eldred) - Spokane, WA

Tibbetts, Cecil & Sandi (Simmons) - Oregon

West, Gery & Carmen (Anderson) - Amanda Park, WA

Wheeler, Anita - Salem, OR

Wheeler, Eunice - Kent, WA
Wood, Mike & Miriam (Gibson) - Bow, WA

60's PROFESSORS who attended                                                4

        Johnson, Leroy
        Rice, Frank
         Thee, Francis & Mary

CURRENT UNIVERSITY STAFF who attended 2

Kowalski, Professor Waldemar & Rosemarie

OTHER GUESTS who attended 11

Huston, Merle - Willow Springs, NC - (Elvin's Brother)
Huston, Ron & Ruth - Sedro-Woolley - (Elvin's Brother & Sister-in-law)
Martin, Ron - Sedro-Woolley - (Helper .. lives on the campground)
Vandenburg, Danny, Lavonda & Nate - (Our Hosts)
Daves, Joyce - Sedro-Woolley - (Diana Kruger's Mother)
Eide, Sherry (Green) - Petersburg, Alaska (Anita Wheeler's Sister)
Chris - Bass Guitar
Jesse - Drums

TOTAL IN ATTENDANCE = 89

NOTES FROM SOME WHO COULD NOT ATTEND

Baughman, Mike & Alvena (Stump) - Snohomish, WA - 8/8/05 - email - "Thank you for the information. It looks like we will not be able to attend this year's reunion. We were trying to put it into the calendar but it did not work. To many events at the same time. Again thank you for all your work. God bless you." - Mike and Alvena

Bradford, Elaine (Griffith) - Port Angeles, WA - 7/5/05 - email - "I sure wish I could come. It would be wonderful to attend the reunion and see old friends. But I am getting ready to leave on September 8 for a three-week missions trip to Tanzania. Think I had better not spread myself too thin. Maybe next year. For my "old friends info - God has been good to me. - Elaine (Griffith) Bradford

Brannan, Jerry & Donna (Miller) - Milton Freewater, OR - 7/8/05 - email - "I'm sorry to say that we will not be able to attend the 60's reunion this year. We were looking forward to seeing everyone, but one of the secretaries (Mary) at my office was diagnosed with uterine cancer this week. She will be off work for at least 8 to 10 weeks which will leave us short-handed. Please greet all our friends for us and we will anticipate joining you next year." - Donna & Jerry

Cain, Lola (Rice) - Olympia, WA - 6/9/05 - email - "Sadly for me, I do not foresee being home in time for the summer NC reunion. Al and I are leaving on his retirement trip June 21 going on a ferry up the inside passage of Alaska, making stops in Ketchikan, Petersburg, Sitka, Juneau and Skagway. Al plans for us to be gone for 2 months. I will MISS seeing everyone if I cannot be there - - these times have been so precious." - Lola Cain

Caves, Burt & Phyllis (Comer) - Gresham, OR - 7/5/05 - email -"We are so sorry not to be able to attend the reunion again this year. It just isn't going to work out for us . Maybe one of these years circumstances will be different and we can join you. The pictures are great and it looks like everyone has such a wonderful time. I know Burt would enjoy the food part - he has always said, he only likes 2 kinds of food, hot and cold. We look forward to hearing the post-reunion report." - Phyllis Caves

Christensen, Herb & Gail (Sluder) - Aberdeen, WA - 6/15/05 -email - "It would be fun to see everyone and how much every one has changed but our present commitments do not allow us to break away that weekend to come. I'm sure all will have a good time. Please send our greetings." - Herb & Gail Christensen

Danner, Ed & Darlene (Miller) - Port Angeles, WA - email - 8/07/05 - "Ever since we had such a great time at last year's reunion,we have been looking forward to attending again this summer. We were planning to do so until we received news today that our eldest daughter and her family had to change their vacation plans. This is the only time their family will be able to come to Port Angeles to visit us before we leave for AZ. I will be thinking of all of you and praying that the Lord will bless you richly as you connect and bless one another." - Darlene

Davis, Frank & Pam (Dyke) - Vashon, WA - 7/22/05 - email - "As much as Pam and I wanted to be there this year, it doesn't look like we will be able to make it. Pam's folks are going through some critical decision making because of failing health (Pam's with them right now). Plus, several church activities (wedding) and building projects will hinder me from being there. We will plan better for next year. - Blessings - Frank Davis

Delgatty, David & Judy (Kennedy) - Bozeman, MT - 3/21/05 - email - "I'm so sorry that Judy and I will not be able to attend the reunion. Judy's side of our family is having a reunion at the same time and we need to attend that. I will miss the great fellowship we have had. Perhaps more will attend this year and be blessed in keeping in touch. Please extend our warm greetings to all our friends." David & Judy Delgatty

Ditty, Byron & Verna (Ihrke) - Enumclaw, WA - 7/22/05 - email - "We were hoping to make some adjustments in schedules to come but family weddings, etc have kept our calendar too full. So sorry we will not be there. Thanks for all you do to keep this going. We sure enjoyed ourselves when we did come. - Verna

Drye, Ron & Grace - Springfield, MO - 6/17/05 - email - "Well... there is just no way this year. I start medical processing of the new missionary candidates at 6:00 AM Monday August 15. It will take a few days to get the lab and exam rooms ready. We will plan on next year, for sure. We leave for Ecuador in a couple of hours. Pray for a great time of ministry and safety." - Ron and Grace

Emerson, Steve & Luanne (Flugekvam) - Salem, OR - 7/31/05 - phone - "We have been closely following the developments, and enjoying the web site. We'd like to be there, but our family, with our children and grandchildren, has traditionally had our annual mountain lake campout on that particular weekend. Have a great reunion. Our thoughts and prayers are with you." - Steve

Eoff, Elaine - Caldwell, ID - 7/27/05 - phone conversation from Atlanta, GA - "I have been looking forward to making it to Sedro-Woolley for the reunion. But, I just received a call tonight informing me that the group I sing with, back in Caldwell, "Ozark Mountain Music Band", has just booked an engagement to sing at the birthday party for one of our Idaho senators in Boise that weekend. They tell me that the Vice President of the United States will be there! Pray for us! Please say 'Hi' to all my friends. It makes me feel sad to hear that my friend, Judi Bullock will be at the reuinon and I won't get to see her." - Elaine

Geer, Leland & Berniece (Kisser) - Shelton, WA - 6/15/05 - email - "My wife and I will be unable to attend. We know God will indeed bless and refresh the hearts of all who attend and renew old ‘acquaintances. We have suffered a little set back here in our family. Friday I suffered a heart attack, and just got home Monday from the hospital. Your prayers would be appreciated as I try and get back to my pastoral work. Recovery is too slow for my taste, but patience is learned and I am striving to learn."- Leland Geer

Goodman, Janice (Wood) - Vancouver, WA - 7/21/05 - email - "Sorry it's taken awhile to respond. I will be unable to attend, but thank you for facilitating this website to keep people connected. - Jan Goodman"

Grey, Larry - Auburn, WA - 8/4/05 - phone - "We're not going to be able to come this time. I really enjoyed the reunion last year, but our family has a scheduling conflict. I currently recovering from surgery for a completely detatched Achilles Tenton. Have been in a cast for quite a while, and am about ready to be put in a boot cast. Greetings to everybody. - Larry

Gustafson, Prof. Philip & Roberta - Kirkland, WA - 7/25/05 -email - "We developed a family time conflict, so Roberta and I will be unable to attend the reunion. We can't be two places at once. We hope to attend future reunions. I will look forward to seeing the reports on the website. I'm sure you all will have a great time." - Phil and Roberta

Halvorsen, Arden & Kathy (Eshom) - Oroville, WA - 7/22/05 - phone - "We've had a crazy/busy summer, with a lot of traveling, and it looks like we're not going to be able to come over this year. We have so enjoyed the last two years, and were hoping to be there again this year. We'll look forward to seeing some pictures and a report on the web site. Our best to everyone. - Kathy & Arden

Hanford, Michael & Yvonne - Monroe, WA - 7/23/05 - email - "Thank you for all you are doing to reconnect us all in the Lord! We have so enjoyed all the updates!!!

We had longed to be able to be there in August, but the various responsibilities in our local church makes it impossible this time! Please extend our warmest and most sincere greetings and "we miss you all!" So many of you touched our lives in those days at NC and beyond!

With Great Appreciation - Michael & Yvonne Hanford

Harrison, Dave & Sherry - Brazil - email 1/31/05 & 4/20/05 - "Sherry and I want to thank you again for inviting us to the reunion last year! What a blessing, and what fun! I do wish we could be with you for the reunion this year, but we just won't be able to make it. maybe next year? Blessings - Dave"
PLAN CHANGE - 7/21/05 ... "Greetings! I am dropping you a line to just say that the Lord has worked it out so that we will be able to be there for at least a part of the reunion!
I am having surgery on my wrist and elbow on Tuesday here in Springfield MO. We will fly out to Seattle for a few days in August, so we are thrilled that we will be able to stop by for at least one day of the reunion! Last year was such a blessing! We never dreamed we would have a chance to be here this year too! Looking forward to seeing everyone! - Dave"

Hathaway, Wayne & Jeanie (Ediger) - Billings, MT - 6/24/05 - phone - "Jeanie and I won't be able to make it to the reunion this year. Jeanie's family is having a big reunion back on the family farm near her home town of Wolf Point, MT this summer. Since relatives will be coming who haven't seen each other in years, we feel that this event is our priority for this Summer. We have immensely enjoyed our participation in the NC reunions the past two years, and will miss being there this year. Please give our love to all our friends." - Wayne

Holbrook,Bill & Toni (Gibson) - Brainerd, MN - 6/26/05 - email - "We are sorry that we will be unable to attend. Bill is Chaplain at Brainerd International Raceway - the date of the reunion is the same weekend as a family reunion & the largest NHRA race held in Brainerd It would be wonderful to be there to see others from the 60's!" - Bill & Toni

Johnson, George & Joyce - North Delta, British Columbia - 7/16/05 - email - "My last email to you was sent with considerable enthusiasm as we felt it would be possible to juggle our schedule around enough to be at the reunion, at least one day. Unfortunately this is not now possible. So with regrets we will not be able to attend. Once again thank you for your efforts of finding us. We really do look forward to the opportunity of getting together with you all when things work out. - Blessings" - George and Joyce Johnson

Johnston, Bill & Sharon (Hoskins) - Portland, OR / Swaziland - 7/11/05 - email - "We are in Portland right now. Our daughter, April had a baby boy on the Fourth of July! I'll be gong back (to Swaziland) next week and Sharon a week later, so we'll miss this years reunion. We are planning to be home next summer and will plan to attend next year, if there is a reunion." - Bill & Sharon

Kriskovich, Jerry & Eileen - Billings, MT - 7/25/05 - email - "Eileen and I will not be able to attend this years reunion. We just returned from spending four weeks of health care in the Seattle area and are unable to take anymore time this year from the office. Give our regards to all who attend and may the Lord's Presence be full in your midst as you renew relationships and especially worship and praise Him!" - Jerry

Larson, Dale & Phyllis (Danielson) - Woodinville, WA - 6/29/05 - phone - "I'm sorry, but it looks like we have a scheduling conflict. We have a wedding to participate in on Saturday afternoon. We had hoped the wedding would be in the evening so we could, at least come for part of the day, but it looks like we'll have to miss this year." - Dale

Lidstrom, Dale & Rita (Parker) - Carlinville, IL - 6/9/05 - Phone - "We'll not be able to be with you this year. I am currently in the Northwest, and will be ministering at Fruitland Camp next week and then will head to Carlinville, IL where Rita is presently setting up our new home. I will be ministering back east during the time of the reunion. Please give our love to all of our dear friends" - Dale Lidstrom

Litzenberger, Ken & Joan (Warden) - Houston, TX - 6/27/05 - email - "Ken and I just came back from a three week trip through the northwest. I am so sorry to miss this reunion again. As usual we are very busy in August with new international students arriving, so it is just bad timing for us. God bless all you are doing for Him. - Ken and Joan"

Lustie, Al & Suzanne (Dawkins) - Littleton, CO - 6/15/05 - email - "This is amazing, really. The 60's reunion! I'm proud of you, and of the way my Northwest College decade has remained in contact with each other in this day and age of dis-connect. Al and I can't come, that whole timing thing for school teachers. School starts for me August 8th. First day with kids is August 12th. I'll think of you, perhaps hum some favorite tunes as I think of you and work with these amazing and at times truculent, kids God has allowed me to share my life with. Cheers," - Suzanne (Dawkins) Lustie

McAlexander, Norm & Judi (Larson) - Naperville, IL - 6/18/05 - email - "Sorry, but Norm and I won't be able to make it to the reunion this year. I am out here in Washington now, getting my dad's household goods disposed of, so he can move into a retirement home. We have really enjoyed coming the last few years, and hope to do it again in the near future." - Judi McAlexander

Miller, Dan - Lynden, WA - 7/25/05 - email - "Great to hear from you. Thanks for what you are doing. Would love to attend, especially since I live so close but we will be in the middle of a move. Keep me in mind for next year." - Dan Miller

Minton, Steve & Sue (White) - Portland, OR - 8/6/05 - phone - "I'm ministering this weekend at a camp for Darrell Elliot's church. Have had some great fellowship with some old college friends too. Sue and I can't make it to the reunion this year, but put us down for next year, 'cause we really miss everybody". - Steve

Nelson, Arlyn & Sharon (Somonsen) - Bothell, WA - 6/27/05 - email - "We have a Nelson Family Reunion that weekend. It's the first one in about 25 years - so we won't be able to attend. Thanks for your emails - they're great to keep us up to date with everyone. Blessings, - Arlyn & Sharon

Newman, Larry & Marlena - Wenatchee, WA - 8/1/05 - email - "Unless things change it looks like we will not make it to the reunion. Perhaps next time." - Larry Vern Newman

O'brien, Jack & Ardyth (Kinney) - San Jose, CA - 8/1/05 - email - "Jack & I will not be able to attend this year. We so enjoyed last year and was looking forward to this year but we recently have had some medical setback. On June 22nd Jack had an TIA. He is pacing himself and the doctor is keeping close watch over him. I have been diagnosised with Spinal Stenosis (narrowing of the spine) and on August 11th I will be having some injections in my spine and also will be starting therapy. We will plan and look forward to next year. Thank you for all the work and time you spend pulling this reunion together. Greet everyone for us. - Ardyth O'Brien

Palmer, Joe & Cecilia - Missoula, MT - 7/21/05 - email - "Sorry but with family reunions and grand children, our jaunts to the west do not hit the same time frame as the reunion. I am going to do a better job of planning for next year. - Joe and Cecelia Palmer"

Palmer, Merle & Eva - Missoula, MT - 5/14/05 - email - "I don't believe that Eva and I will be attending. Our summer is already loaded. I have a major project at the Glacier Bible Camp for this summer. I will need every free moment to complete the project." - Merle Palmer

Payne, Bonnalie (Moehlmann) - Yamhill, OR - 7/21/2005 - email - "Again, I will not be able to attend. We have been booked up every weekend up through the beginning of September. It will be a relief when summer is over then maybe we can spend some time by ourselves. Have a great time. Wish I could see some of you again. - Bonnalie

Pearson, & Glenice (Coggins) - Lake Stevens, WA - 7/23/2005 - email -"Thank you for your call. Regretfully we will not be able to attend this year’s reunion as we will need to be in southern WA that weekend. Hopefully it will work out for us to be there next year. We will look forward to hearing all about it. We so enjoyed the reunion last year, and we’re sure this year will be wonderful as well. Thank you for all your hard work in making this special event happen! Blessings, - Glenice and Dave

Schmoll, Bob & Sheri (Blohm) - Portland, OR - 7/26/05 - Phone - "We would love to have been at the reunion. However, Sheri and I and our children will be in Southern California with Sheri's family. Twenty months ago, Sheri and I adopted our latest children, two little girls (27 months old now) from Guatamala. So here I am in my late 50's with two more little babies! This brings the number of our children to 9. We now have 4 sons and 5 daughters. I guess we're going for the record! Our best to everyone at the reunion." - Bob

Serles, Dave & Leanna (King) - Leavenworth, WA - 7/23/05 - email - "I am so disappointed that Dave and I will be unable to attend this year's reunion. We have friends arriving from North Dakota . We will look forward to attending next year (the Lord willing). Thank you, Elvin, for all your hard work and long hours you spend in putting this incredible event together, and for keeping us connected! Blessings. - Leanna

Snyder, Jerry & Yvonne (Mitchell) - Salem, OR - 7/8/05 - email - "We are planning to attend the General Council at Denver and are staying the second week of August in Colorado for a vacation with my sister and brother. It sounds like the reunions have been a great time from those who have attended. Hopefully we can attend one in the future." - Jerry

Sorg, Lou & Mary (Wirth) - Sumner, WA - email 8/6/05 - "A personal situation arose, & we will not be able to attend the reunion this year." - Mary

Stone, Bob & Nancy - Bellingham, WA - email 8/8/05 - "So sorry we can't attend. Once again this year we have been invited by our grandchildren to go to Disneyland with them! Grandma and Papa are very excited that they want us with them, as we know this won't last. We'll take advantage of it while we can. We know you folks are going to have another wonderful Reunion and we'll be thinking about you! Love ya" - Bob and Nancy Stone

Tipon, Art & Cheryl (Bales) - Riverdale, GA - 7/24/05 - email - "I won't be able to be at this year's reunion, but I'll be thinking about all of you! and will mark it on next year's calendar for sure. It's always a treat to get the updates. They are very much appreciated!

Thanks again" - Cheryl

Volin, Ray & Betty (Ballenger) - Rancho Murieta, CA - 7/29/05 - email -"Thanks for all the information about the upcoming NW Alumni 60's 2005 reunion. Unfortunately, Ray and I will be unable to attend this year. We so enjoyed and were blessed by the 2004 gathering and look forward to coming again in the near future. Please greet everyone for us." - Ray & Betty

Wallace, Bob & Joan (Russell) - Bellevue, WA - 6/26/05 - email - "It is such a pleasure to see your familiar names from the past! I’m so sorry I can’t make the reunion as we will be traveling out of state at that time. I wish I could be there to get reacquainted. Perhaps next summer. God Bless! - Joan

Wayne, Esther (Martin) - Dufer, OR - 6/27/05 - email - "I am sorry that I will not be able to attend the 60's reunion this August as that is the same time as our family reunion and with 2 ailing sisters, this may be the last one to see them so I need to be there. Thank you for the invitation and putting me on the mailing list. Please record the Treble-Aires. I'd sure love to hear them -- and if anyone "speaks". Please consider making a cassette (or CD) and having them for sale to those of us who cannot attend. Thanks, - Esther"

White, Calvin & Linda - Port Ludlow, WA - 7/4/05 - email - "I was hoping to attend, but took a closer look at my calendar and have a wedding Friday and another Saturday. I have pastored here long enough that the young people that helped start the church are now of marriage age. Perhaps next year. Greetings to all." - Cal White

Wilkie, John & Mary Ann - Durant, FL - 6/25/05 - email - "John is presently in Uruguay teaching and taping for our series on Old Testament. Our missionary retreat ends August 13th and then we will be coming to Washington but will miss the reunion. We hope to attend next year." - Mary Ann

Wilkie, Owen - Battlefield, MO - 3/19/2005 - IM - "we'll be out west in July so will miss your August event. My brother John is planning to be out there in August." - Owen Wilkie

Wednesday, July 20, 2005

Wed, 20 Jul 2005 12:59:08 GMT

60's Alum leads kids to 2005 Junior Bible Quiz National Championship!

VERNA (IHRKE) DITTY- Auburn, WA - On June 16, Verna wrote telling that their Jr. Girls Bible Quiz team from Auburn, WA. had won the 2005 National Bible Quiz Championship! To get an idea of what a great achievement this is, consider that there are over 8000 quizzers from over 1600 churches that participate in the Bible Quiz program. The auburn girls came in 2nd at District competition. At Regionals which included the best teams from Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, & Montana, the girls came in 3rd. The best 7 teams from our Region were then sent to the National Compteition in Chicago. Here they faced 72 of the best teams from across the nation, and came out on top as the 2005 National Champs! This is the first time a team from the Northwest Region has won a National Bible Quiz Championship in 20 years of national quizzing! Click here for an article & picture published in the Enumclaw Courier-Herald on June 22, 2005 The Enumclaw Courier-Herald

Verna writes: "Hannah Olney, one of the quizzers is our granddaughter. Deanna Olney, mentioned in the article as starting other teams in Enumclaw is our daughter. Byron coached the B team where our grandson, Luke, age 8, quizzed and also helped with the C team where our other grandson Seth, age 6, quizzed. The Junior Bible Quiz Program is an amazing program. We thought you would share our joy, pride and absolute amazement!! ... and most of all thankfulness for God's blessing!!

Love to you all!!" - Verna (Ihrke) Ditty