Abbot Academy - Circle Yearbook (Andover, MA)

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Abbot is trying to contribute her share to the war effort, as she has been for the past three years. In- stead of the airplane spotting and Red Cross and nutrition classes given last year, we have knitting and sewing classes on Wednesday evening from eight to nine. At the present time there is an urgent need for knitted cloth- ing. These classes are for different coun- tries such as Czechoslovakia, France, Great Britain, Russia and Holland. The most interesting class seems to be that called " The World Today, " which makes a point of studying various sub- jects of national interest. Each month, this group of girls, helped by Miss Hear- sey, Miss Roth, and other members of the faculty, holds an open forum in Davis Hall. The subjects that have been dis- cussed are the election this fall, the race problem, and Germany after the war. These forums have been popular and there are lively discussions after the talks. The Saturday evening programs have often supplemented these forums, so a very clear knowledge of world affairs is gained. Cynthia Smith has done a wonderful job with the news, having taken almost complete charge. Three times a week in chapel a Senior-Mid gives us a brief ac- count of the world news of the day. On April 28 nine representatives of this group went to Boston to take part in a discussion on Trade Relationships in the Post War World. This meeting was spon- sored by the United Nations Association, and eighteen prep schools around Boston took part. Through these war service groups, we have come to feel that we are making an important contribution to the war effort. " But it doesn ' t phase me. Where ' s Primpy ' s knitting? [42]

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A.C.A., as always, holds its important position as one of the main organizations of Abbot. It has done an excellent job this year with Holly Welles as its competent president. The Vesper Services, headed by the students, have been most enlightening. During one of them all the Xorthfield girls gave us a clear and concise picture of the conferences held in June. According to custom, each Senior dressed a doll for the Hindman Settlement, and they were packed up with other presents in time for Christmas. The Christmas Party turned out a grand success with full attendance. Each child present, with great enthusi- asm, received his qj her gifts from Biz Marsh who made a wonderful Santa Claus. The A.C.A. meetings after Sunday night supper were abolished this year. To replace them, members of the board have taken charge of the week-day chapel ser- vice on such days as Columbus Day and Lincoln ' s Birthday. A.C.A. sponsored the Red Cross War Fund Campaign and we can say with pride that Abbot contributed 100%. . Journalism at Abbot has been flourish- ing this year, as never before. One was first aware of the change when a huge sign appeared on the bulletin board ad- vertising THE NEW BLUE COURANT. Sally had a particularly harassed look about her, and one could hear her mumbl- ing about deadlines, going to press and all the other jargon of the literary world. Then the day arrived when Courant ap- peared in our mailboxes, and Sally ' s harassed look was replaced by one of pride as she lovingly fondled her product. And Courant has changed. There are more stories, and better ones, with wonderful illustrations, as well as an enlarged staff. We, of the Yearbook board, were equally busy, trying to produce what we hope will be one of the best yearbooks that Abbot has ever had. We have had difficulties getting our materials and films, and there is always the problem of finding extra time. But it has all been worth the effort, and it is with great pride that we say that we were on the Board of the Circle for 19-45. COURANT BOARD Paterson, Fuller, .V. Thomas, Leavitt, C. Smith, Burton, Liter- more, Lurton YEARBOOK BOARD Van Cleve, Boynton, Selinger, S. Sommer, M. J. Hodges, Red- man, Benton, Marsh, Bushnell Absent : N. Stone 41]

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' Now that ire ' re settled the problems of the world. ' But the firsts- haven ' t been served yet! " In this past year, we at Abbot have been most fortunate in having many gifted men and women help us shape our thoughts and opinions. Vespers on Sunday evenings have been nothing less than in- spiring. We shall always remember men such as Dr. Cleland, Dr. Calkins and Mr. Baldwin, not only for their keen humor and presentations, but also for their in- sight into the deep problems of life and their clear interpretations of a number of Biblical passages. Our Saturday evening programs have brought many speakers and artists to Abbot. We have obtained a better knowl- edge of the arts through such programs as Spanish dancing, Chinese and English theater, dramatic interpretations, and concerts by distinguished musicians. And, of course, we will never forget Miss Friskin ' s recital, one of the most eagerly awaited events of the whole year. Our comprehension of the world events has been increased by such excellent speakers as Mrs. Paul Robeson, Mrs. F. M. Taylor, and Mr. William Averitt. We were particularly fortunate in hearing Miss Margaret Walker read us some pas- sages from her own poetry, which brought us greater understanding of the Negro and his problems. All of these people have contributed greatly to our prospective, and we feel indebted to each one of them. They have provided us with many searching thoughts and have given us a wider appreciation of our world and its opportunities. With their experience and ability to guide us we feel ourselves better equipped to meet the demands of the future. [ 43