1949

Many of you, I suspect, were pleased to read the article by "Outdoors" writer Nelson Bryant '46 on the D.O.C. in the March 29 issue of the New York Times. After several years of bad press it is refreshing to read that "the college's natural surroundings are magnificent and its outdoor activities program is unmatched in the nation." Bryant's glowing comments on the freshman trips program could only lend reinforcement to our class commitment to this endeavor through our freshman trip scholarships.

A1 Wagner, who is a strong supporter of yet another dimension of the College's activities, told me recently about his devotion to the Boston Alumni Seminars programs. The most recent topic was "The Quest for Immortality," but our discussion centered more around Al's visit with Lee and Bruce Crawford, who were also looking for "Immortality!" Bruce is vice president, group sales, at State Mutual in Worcester, Mass., where he has spent his entire business career. Their three sons are now out on their own, two following Bruce into the insurance business, but with competing companies. Daughter Carolyn is a sophomore at Dennison University. The Crawfords have two granddaughters. Bruce has been active in alumni interviewing for several years.

A1 also sent along an old clipping from the Hartford Courant that I think he had filed with his income tax, which might account for its March discovery. However, since we have provided extensive copy on the successes and failures of our West Coast politicos, it is only proper that we report on the political fortunes of a native of New Hampshire turned Connecticut Yankee.

Paul Toli Daukas, a four-term mayor of Rocky Hill, Conn., has bucked his party three times to defeat party-endorsed candidates. Under Rocky Hill's town-manager form of government, the mayor presides over the town council but doesn't run day-to-day government operations. He does not receive any salary and he estimates he works ten to 12 hours a week for the town.

Local political observers say, "It's Toli's homespun demeanor that makes him so popular. He's a tireless campaigner, a hard worker, a good family man, an honest man, a good public servant, and a champion of the homeowner."

Paul, who has his law degree, is an accountant for a Middletown optical firm and has served the town as a Little League and soccer coach, on the Board of Education, and on two charter revision commissions. When asked why he stays in a.job that offers no pay and few thanks Paul said, "I feel that any place I've been or anything I have done, I've endeavored to make it a little bit better because I was there that's my epitaph."

A final bit of news from Skip Ungar reveals that wife Manya will retire as president of the New Jersey state P.T.A. in October, but will assume the position of vice president of legislation for the national organization. Lots of travel and anxiety in a period of heavy budget cutting. Skip and brother A1 sold the family business last year, but stayed on as employees. Skip is working in sales and enjoying his freedom.

If any of you have news clips that you're holding, I need them!

2 Cornfield Road Simsbury, Conn. 06070