My notes in this issue are likely to be confined to the Eastern seaboard because that is the source of my latest news. For example, a letter from Almus Russell (Bloomsburg, Pa.) reached me almost simultaneously with my copy of NewHampshire Echoes, which features two 1920 men of note, Almus and Sherm Adams. Almus, who gets more articles published in more places than any man I know, is the author of "Don't Kick the Salt." With pictures from his own collection he has written about the J. Russell country store in Mason, N.H., "J. Russell" being Almus' own father and the setting his home with the store attached. If you wish to know why one mustn't "kick the salt," get this unique little magazine and read it for yourself.
The other story is about Loon Mountain and Sherm Adams - why Loon is what it is, a unique all-year round resort in Lincoln, N.H. The article contains many lovely pictures, too. But, the author did not know a couple of secrets about Loon Mountain: that credit for the lovely flower gardens must go to Ted Marden, who in his semi-retirement, is responsible for their placement and care; that Loon Mountain is the post-reunion rendezvous of the renowned Classof 1920, which in recent years has migrated northward for an additional day of reuning. Yep, when you read about Loon Mountain you read about the setting where many 1920 men and their wives gather to relax and reminisce with Sherm and Rachel Adams, our thoughtful host and hostess, about the "good old days" and the "good new days" in this God's country which the Adams' have tried so hard to preserve. Remember the date: June 6, 7, and 8 in Hanover and the evening of June 8 and the day of June 9 on Loon — or if you can tarry longer, you may.
The Charlie Sargents, having travelled extensively in the Canadian Provinces, have more recently made a summer trip to Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. Charlie is one of our reunion "Trail Blazers" for our 55th. By mail, he'll be hitting the trail soon amply prepared with his own "poop-sheet."
Bob Mulcahy, in Watertown, Mass., relays the sad news that he lost his helpmate of many years this past summer. He is now facing the hard problems of readjustment to life. The Class extends belatedly its deepest sympathy to you, Bob.
Russ Jones (New Salem, N.Y.) has been joined by his wife Alice in retirement. Russ, who occasionally gives cooking lessons to local housewives, now has a real "pro" to satisfy. Alice retired from her bank executive position this year after supervising her bank's move into brand new headquarters in New York City. Congratulations, Alice, for reaching such an eminent position — she was a respected vice president — in this slowly eroding chauvinistic world.
From Hib Richter we received a fine Christmas card, a snow-laden, woodsy theme, replete with two horses drawing a pung filled with youngsters and a Christmas tree. Hib says he has sold his Newfound Lake property, after much labor on his waterfront wall, lawns, front and rear, and the conversion of a garage and and shop to an extra guest house. This choice spot on one of Newfound's points must have been hard to part with, Hib. How well we remember our visit with you and the tender steak you prepared over the open fire outside. Hib reports that brother Paul is recovering the use of his left side as he slowly progresses to better health. Also, Alex, Paul's son is returning from Gwelph University, near Toronto, where he is studying to be a veteranarian, for the Christmas holidays and will join the Richters on that occasion. Hib, with an office in his home, continues his practice of the law.
Ken Hussey, whose daughter continues to maintain the Hussey apartment in Lawrence, is wintering in Jet Park, Palmetto, Fla. 33561, #66 A. Last summer Ken visited with Hib and Kathy Richter on Newfound Lake before they sold their property. He also called on Paul Richter at the nursing home. His plans to visit Ned DeRouville in Worcester went awry, unfortunately. Better luck next time, Ken. Perhaps after - or even at - our 55th Reunion in June!
From Hanover Lyon Southworth informed me that Kenneth Pike Emory was in the vicinity visiting old friends in early October. Ken also spent some time at his cabin on Lake Tarleton. I had thought that lad was busy getting his Polynesian double canoe ready for sailing out of Hawaii. Classmates will note with pleasure that Ken has the first artricle in the December 1974 issue of the National Geographic Society's four part look at "The Isles of the Pacific." He also served as principal consultant for the Society's beautifully designed and executed map, "Islands of the Pacific." Meanwhile the construction and trial runs of the Polynesian Voyaging Society's double canoe are proceeding apace, readying for the 1976 Bicentennial sailings to Tahiti in the Polynesians.
In a note to Al Frey, Col. Dan Bender wrote that he and Isobel celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in June 1973 and spoke feelingly about the "grandeur and exquisiteness of old age." That is a nice way to express it, Dan, and it should give courage to Dr. Herb Marshall in our capital city who is finding the adjustment to retirement a little tedious.
There is nothing like a reunion in Hanover for what ails you, so think about it and make plans for rejuvenation in June 1975. The dates are June 6, 7 and 8. And the post reunion rendevous at Loon Mountain is, indeed, a must.
Adios, (God goes with you) amigos. Hasta la vista.
Secretary, 2549 East Beryl Ave. Phoenix, Ariz. 85028
Treasurer, Dresden, Me. 04342