1924
Well, don't say we didn't warn you! Last month we gave ample warning that the 1952 Alumni Fund Drive would soon get under way, and here we are right smack in the thick of it. Thus far the slide rule operators, who figure norms and means with gay abandon, have not seen fit to enlighten your humble servant as to what the quota will be this year. Nonetheless, it's an odds-on bet that it won't be a cent less than last year, and if we were wont to indulge in wagering, we'd be inclined to risk a fiver that the over-all quota would be raised. Either way, 1924 has its work cut out for it.
Despite the fact that last year, under ChickAustin's leadership, we raised more money than we ever had before, and had a participation record that exceeded the College average, the fact remains that we finished last in our section of the Green Derby. The bottom is not a pleasant spot to be in, but starting from that recumbent position, there is no place to go but up—and we can do it if you fellows who are reading this treatise are willing to do your part.
A little analysis of our situation shows that, since our participation is excellent, we do not lack for contributors. What then is the difficulty? In a word, MONEY! This money can only come from two sources, either from one or more "angels" well supplied with taxable income, or from the rank and file of our membership who are less well endowed with this world's goods. We would be the last to deprecate the value of an "angel," and would indeed welcome him with open arms, for there is no denying that a large gift or two would be a terrific stimulant to our campaign. Nevertheless, it is our belief that if success comes to our Class it will be achieved the hard way, with more generous giving on the part of you and me. If each of us will resolve to step up his contribution at least one notch, then our goal will be attained. We have far too many $5 and $10 contributors, and in most cases these checks could be stepped up to $25 without the slightest hardship or difficulty. Before you draw your check this year, think it over seriously. The need is great. Help us to meet it.
Not long ago we received a letter from Roger Harris who will be remembered as the galloping Texan who specialized in drilling holes through opposing lines in the days of our youth. It seems that Rog is still drilling holes, but this time in porous soil of southwest Texas in quest of oil. From the letterhead we gather that Rog is a partner in the Strawn Drilling Company, of San Angelo, Tex. He and his family have moved from Dallas and are now living at 2534 West Avenue J in San Angelo. With true Texas conservatism he describes it as "a lovely little town of 54,000 —in the heart of the big ranch country." Rog's company is engaged in the rotary contract drilling and oil production business.
In the belief that the ALUMNI MAGAZINE does not have too great a circulation in the Lone Star State, we will take the risk of quoting one other paragraph. Rog writes, "Life is very pleasant, as well as profitable, out here; and, for that reason, it looks as though Mr. Truman will get a good many votes, but then Texas always did vote like a 'village idiot.' " There it is, and if this be treason, make the most of it.
Another letter which has given us a great deal of pleasure came from Richard H. Perry, long-time resident of Charlestown, N. H. Dick owns and operates an I.G.A. Store in Charlestown. In spite of the hard work and longhours required in the grocery business he confesses that a 3a waist has gradually rounded out to a 38 and that he has experienced some difficulty in keeping it there. Dick's son went to Kimball Union Academy and from there to Middlebury. He is now at the University of Pennsylvania studying dentistry. Dick figures that in the long run he will get at least a dividend on the investment in his son's education through the medium of free dental care. Dick's store is right on the Connecticut Valley route to Hanover and he extends a cordial invitation to drop in and say hello.
Our West Coast agent recently sent us a copy of the Walla Walla Union-Bulletin containing a story announcing the appointment of Maury Ahlquist as Chairman of the Red Cross drive in Walla Walla County. Maury, a resident of Touchet, Wash., operates a very large and successful farm and in his .spare time he has. been active in many civic enterprises. He has been in Red Cross work since 1935, anc! at the present time is vice president of the county chapter and a member of the executive committee. Maury is past president of the Washington State Reclamation Association and a past treasurer of the National Reclamation Association. Life in the great open spaces seems to agree with Maury, for he certainly has the pep and drive for a variety of activities. More power to him.
A newspaper is also the source of our next little item concerning Ruel E. Tucker. Not too long ago the Great Neck (N. Y.) Record published a lengthy article praising the achievements of Ruel as principal of the local high school. He is affectionately called "Mr. Great Neck High" and is credited by the paper with the growth and development of this outstanding school. Two or three years ago your Secretary was rather active in P.T.A. work and one of the schools that was pointed out as the shining example of what a first class high school should be was none other than the Great Neck High. In his ten years as principal Ruel has been responsible for many innovations that have made the school a byword in educational circles, and has made a reputation for himself as an able and inspirational administrator.
Ruel started teaching upon graduation from Dartmouth. His first job was in Concord, N. H., where he taught for 13 years. From there he went to Brockton as headmaster of the High School and four years later went on to his present post. Ruel has 27 years of successful teaching behind him and it is a pleasure to extend our congratulations on his achievements in the field of education.
Odds and Ends from Here and There—PaulFord Weaver, known on the stage as Paul Ford, is now appearing in television, in addition to his work on the legitimate stage. We had the pleasure of watching him on video the other night as he played the role of a Pennsylvania Dutchman in a show over CBS Channel 2. Keep your eye open for the name Paul Ford, he's our boy .—Win Sturtevant was recently elected a member of the Board of Governors of the University Club of Springfield. —Harry A. Holmlund, owner and manager of a tremendously successful book and stationery company in Rochester, has been appointed as one of 15 business and civic leaders to educate the public on the role of business in the United States. The Chamber of Commerce is promoting this public relations project.—Jim White reports having seen several 1924 Dads in Hanover at the time of the Freshmen Fathers' Weekend. Jim and Lu White recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, and where did they go? Hanover, of course. Where else!
That seems to wind things up for this month. Don't forget we have a job to do and an obligation to meet in this year's Alumni Fund. If you will do your share, and do it now, it will be most helpful to Chick Austin and his assistants who are giving so much of themselves to this tremendously important drive. See you later.
Secretary, 328 Orchard PL, Ridgewood, N. J. Treasurer, 1312 Greenleaf Blvd., Elkhart, Ind. Class Agent, 185 Franklin St., Boston, Mass.
