1972

Hail, noble '72s well met! It has been a quiet period in terms of news from the hinterlands. Among the few tidbits that have migrated my way is learning that Charlie Schudson lost his bid for reelection to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. Based on the documentation I received along with this disturbing news I can only describe the election as the political triumph of money and the profound distortion of the truth in the service of oneself over quiet dignity, perseverance and lifelong dedication to the greater public good. Andwhile I would dearly love to take his opponent to task for living in a barren wasteland where ethics are concerned, the outcome of the election in fact only serves to reinforce a systemic problem in our society at large. Our nation suffers from an electorate that has become tragically inured to accepting whatever appears in the media as gospel. Why else, I ask you, do so many politicians ratchet up their media messages and assert whatever charge or accusation may meet the need of the moment (or poll) in the scramble to be elected? Often their drivel appears sans any semblance of the truth, or at best it only reflects a mere visage of fact. The handful among us who do take the time to research candidates, their positions, records and characters are indeed just that—a handful. So, Charlie, while I would love to berate your opposition, it is perhaps more appropriate to scold the good citizens in your district for their short- sightedness, perhaps laziness. To you, my friend, I wish the best. I know you'll continue to take the high road and more good things will come apace!

Okay, I exercised the bully pulpit. It was bound to happen at some point! And now for some positive news that came in just after my last deadline.

R. Henry "Hank" Moore has joined the firm of Jackson Kelly PLLC to oversee its new Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, operation. Hank is ranked among the very best occupational safety and health lawyers in the country; the firm is a nationwide force in the area of litigation, compliance assistance, and rulemaking policy and advice in industries under state and federal OSHA regulation. Sounds like a perfect match. Congrats, Hank!

Kudos also go to G. William "Max" McGee, who has risen to chair of the board of the Golden Apple Foundation, the culmination (at least to this point!) of a career dedicated to improving teaching and learning for all students. Max, who also serves on the boards of the Great Books Foundation and United Cerebral Palsy in Illinois, has risen from the ranks of a substitute teacher in Lebanon, New Hampshire, through to state superintendent of education in Illinois. His wife, Jan Fitzsimmons, is also an educator.Their family is rounded out by three children, Mike, Joey and Jessica. In his "spare" time Max runs marathons and is a competitive triathlete. Great to hear from you!

Well, that's all for this installment. Have a terrific summer, all, and stay in touch!

Yours always in green,

P.O. Box 580, Hanover,NH 03755-0580; lauren.cummings@dartmouth.edu