1954

We began last month's column with a paragraph on Bill Mansfield and his move to the American Embassy in Oslo, after his years of service with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As you will note in the "Give A Rouse" column, Bill has just received a special commendation from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. His award was accompanied by a letter of appreciation from Administrator Russell E. Train. The letter states: "I want to single out your accomplishments in developing productive working relationships between American and foreign members of the scientific and technical environmental community. The mutual trust which exists between this Agency and its counterparts in other countries is largely due to your vigorous efforts and articulate support of international teamwork to improve the environment.

"Your professionalism, dedication, and judgment have contributed substantially to expanded foreign interest and awareness of the international ramifications of environmental problems throughout the world."

These words indicate just how much Bill's work has helped to improve the political as well as atmospheric environment in which we live. Thanks, Bill.

I've just received an announcement from the Thomas Betts Corporation of Elizabeth, N.J., declaring the election of Bob Berry to the position of corporate vice president - finance and chief financial officer of Thomas N. Betts Corporation. Bob was formerly president of Thomas N. Betts International, Inc., the company's international operation. In his new position he will be responsible for corporate financial and administrative functions. Bob has been with Thomas Betts since completing his military service - joining the company in a domestic sales capacity and rising up through a number of executive positions. Bob and family continue to live in Montclair, New Jersey.

Harry Robinson echoes the optimism of the times with the following note enclosed with his dues remittal to Dick Barker: "This signature proves I am alive and able to sign. For how long in this economy who knows. However, Carol is gainfully employed as a teacher so perhaps I can beachbum like Barry Nova next summer." Who knows, Harry, it may be a good life.

Don't you believe you can get away from your background. The other morning as I was leaving for work, catching a quick look at a television show on WBZ - the NBC affiliate in Boston who do I see staring at me out of the screen but a bearded Pete Bullis. You may ask yourself, as 1 did, "What is a respectable architect doing on a morning television show?" The answer was simple. The same thing he did in college - plucking away at his banjo.

Pete and a group of other professional and business men have established a jazz band of some note. They go under the name of the "New Black Eagle Jazz Band" and have traveled extensively playing together for their enjoyment and that of discerning jazz fans around the country. They really are great, and Pete contributes strongly to that greatness.

Keep a booking open for our 25th Reunion, Pete.

George Haskins has been elected a vice president at Eastman Kodak, according to a recent release from there. George, who earned an MBA from Indiana U., joined Kodak in 1957 as a mortgage and savings counselor. He was named to the appraisal staff in 1960, elected an assistant secretary two years later, assistant vice president in 1965, and currently is manager of the Kodak Office branch. He is a member of the Society of Real Estate Appraisers.

Dr. Burt Onofrio writes of his wife's fame as a well-known potter and president of the Minnesota State Arts Council. Burt's pride in his wife makes him modestly overlook his accomplishments as an assistant professor in neurosurgery at the Mayo Clinic, where he has been for the last eight years.

As long as we are talking about artistically inclined wives, we must take note of an article in the Providence Sunday Journal about Lois Graboys, the talented wife of banker GeorgeGraboys. To quote: "Lois Graboys, who is an artist herself and of no mean ability and an art critic as well, is planning a series of all-day critique and rap sessions for groups of rio more than eight artists at a time in her studio.

"'Most artists who have completed their training and are working on their own,' she explains, 'have few places to turn for objective evaluation of their work. Unless they are connected with a college, and can turn to their associates, or unless they are having an exhibit and receive a critical review in the newspaper, they are left only with their own prospective.'

" 'It is my hope that through provocative questioning and stimulating discussions, each artist will be able to see his work and his potential more clearly.' "

Lois has apparently developed a unique approach to helping other artists analyze the evolution of their work and receive objective criticism. George and Lois must have a fascinating household with Lois following an active art career; George serving as executive vice president of Citizens Bank and Trust Company of Providence; and raising a family of two children. That is truly a full program.

Well, that touches all bases for now. It's time to get those golf clubs and tennis sneakers out. How about getting your pen out, too, and sending me a few lines.

Secretary, Alperts, Inc. 100 Highland Ave. Seekonk, Mass. 02771

Treasurer, 30 Juniper Ave., Wakefield, Mass. 01880