Althea was born in the Bronx in 1922. She describes her family's immigration history, background, and occupations. Althea talks about her relationship with her parents, how they exposed her to the arts in New York, and the impact of her father's death at an early age. Growing up, her family was observant of Jewish holidays, and Althea and her sisters attended cheder. Althea discusses her mother as a role model for community activism, childhood memories of New York, moving to Seattle, and her first experience of antisemitism. She compares their Orthodox background in New York with experiences of the Reform Temple De Hirsch in Seattle. This was Althea's first experience of men and women sitting together in the synagogue. She recalls her Jewish education and community involvement in Seattle with Girl Scouts and volunteering for Child Haven. In Seattle, Althea was expected to date only Ashkenazim boys. She observes the differences between Sephardim and Ashkenazim. During World War II, Althea met her husband, Samuel Stroum, a serviceman. They had a simple small wedding at Temple De Hirsch. Althea recounts her pre-marriage financial independence, working for a debt collection agency, and supporting her mother. She remembers meeting Joseph Lieberman, a presidential candidate. Althea examines her role as a mother, instilling the Jewish value of Tzedaka, introducing her daughter to the arts, and her involvement in various organizations. She also reflects on her relationship with her husband, their different personal styles, and resolving conflicts with trust, humor, and forgiveness for their 60-year marriage. Althea also discusses her support of Seattle art and artists, her lifelong interest in art collection, and developing friendships with Seattle-based artists. Finally, Althea explains her belief in setting an example for others through philanthropic gifts to worthy causes.