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(above left) Fish #1, acrylic, 1996; (above right) Fish #2, acrylic, 1996
(below left and right) Tree Islands, rock, wire and silk leaf, 2005
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I was in Mr. Hodge's UW-O art class in the fall of 1996 when I suffered a blood clot in my lung. I will always remember the kindness you showed me when I returned to school after a 10-day hospital stay. Not only did you extend deadlines for me, but even more importantly, you were so understanding and genuinely concerned. I've never forgotten your empathy. I have such fond memories of your fun-filled, relaxed art class, listening to Don McLean and making art! Just wanted to say thank you, Mr. Hodge. I feel honored to have been a student in your class.