After consulting with the three 'wise men' and our official astrologer we perceive that the following men, whose birthdays fall in December, were born under the sign of Sagitarius, the Archer,: Donovan, Curtis, and Hallet, whereas Gardner, Wheelock, and Edson, were born under the sign of Capricornus, the Goat.
As a result of these fortuitous circumstances they are entitled to receive all of the goodies which are their due and to the hearty congratulations of all the members of our Class.
Al Humphries writes to us from his home in Solon, Ohio:
"Very recently I returned from a three week 'Panorama' vacation, having visited different countries in Europe from England to the Isle of Capri. Although it was a TWA tour I went alone. I brought back 257 slides of scenes which I had shot and am currently in demand from friends to put on a travelogue.
"Right now I am watching the World Series on TV. I also enjoy occasional cruises on the Great Lakes in my son's (D'40) yacht. I think that I have never felt better. I had a few days old celebration of my birthday and I thank you for your kind regards."
John Knoop writes to us as follows from his home in Troy, Ohio: Your congratulations on account of my recent birthday were received and duly appreciated but, I am sorry to say that I do not have much to tell you except about my experience for this past year.
"On October 20, 1974 I broke my hip and was taken to our local hospital where I stayed until March, 1975. Then they brought me home and made a regular hospital of my office where I have been ever since. Even now I am not able to walk without the aid of a walker.
"I have spent all of my life farming and managing farms for other people. Our four children are all married and we have six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. This is just in answer to your letter although it may not be very interesting to your readers of the Alumni Magazine or the 1914 Newsletter.
"Up until the last three years we have been going to Florida for a limited stay in Ft. Lauderdale on the east coast but have also spent some time on the west coast.
"I can not drive any more but we fly down and use a taxi when we want to go out for meals or whatever."
Ralph Jenkins sends us the following reminiscence from his home in Phillipsburg, N.J.:
"Yes, I'm still with the famous Class of 1914 but, unfortunately, my think tank has about gone dry.
"Do you remember the occasion when a trainload of us going to White River Junction packed in so full that the conductor couldn't get through to collect our tickets? On our return trip we crossed the river just a short time before the swollen waters took out the bridge there at White River. My memory is getting faulty now but I think we all walked back to Hanover on foot. This is my response to your request for a story of a trivial incident, and your very kind letter to me.
"I am wondering if I'll be able to go to Hanover for reunion again. Here's hoping, anyhow."
Paul Applin writes to us from his home in Ellenwood, Ga.: "Many thanks for your cordial greetings on the occasion of my 84th birthday. I am still able to get around and plan to go to San Francisco in a few days to attend the wedding of one of my grandsons.
"After examining rocks for many years as a petroleum geologist I have now retired. My geological investigations took me to many parts of the U.S. and to Mexico. Though retired and less active I try to keep informed on the 'New Geology' and modern methods of prospecting for oil. The younger folks now taking over the profession of 'Earth Sciences' have a real job in the attempt to maintain the supply of oil but I believe they will be able to do so.
"My best wishes to the Class and congratulations to you for the fine job you are doing as secretary of the 'Famous Class of 1914.'"
Secretary, 905 Hacienda Drive Sun City Center, Fla. 33570
Treasurer, 48 Bayview Circle, Osterville, Mass. 02655