Alma High School - Panther Tales Yearbook (Alma, MI)

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HISTORY OF THE CLASS OF 1912 lfgg N a dark, dreary, rain da in the early art of Septem- Y y P f ber, l908, the casual observer might have noticed about 5 l forty young people Wending their way to school against the driving rain. He might also have observed the re- signed expression upon the faces of these students, tor they well knew the prejudice often entertained against freshmeng but hardly had they become accustomed to their new environment before the Junior class, detecting evidences of un- usual good taste in them, sent a delegation to ask their opinion as to what class colors they should choose. The Seniors soon presented themselves, asking for information in regard to the selection of their class pin. In fact, during the entire first year, all their spare time was occupied giving advice to the upper classes. The Sophomores, to be sure, did not con- sult them concerning matters of class interest, but rather as individuals in regard to studies. The second year was in many ways similar to the first, except that more of their time was taken up giving counsel. The idea of an organization was scorned by the members of this class the first two years, as they well knew from their daily intercourse that all of the members could never agree on any one thing. But at the beginning of the Junior year, Paul Kress suggested a class organization, and was promptly rebuked by being elected president. However, now being started in the right direction, some social gathering was suggested. After considerable discussion, it was decided that they should go on a sleigh-ride to the St. Louis skating rink, and from there to the home of Grace DuBois. The plan was successfully carried out, and after leaving the rinlc they started on their journey for the DuBois home. On arrival, a supper was served, after which a few toasts were sleepily responded to, and the idea that Brevity was the soul of wit seemed quite prevalent, ' The next event of class importance was held one Saturday night at the home of Queen Strong. Following this was a party at Mabel Wynne's. At this time a supper was served of somewhere between Fifteen and nineteen courses. .After the guests had recovered a little from the repast, they listened to a few vocal solos by Edward Bahlke, which were greatly appreciated. Next came the memorable party at john Gatfney's, at which Calvin Race made his bow to society, and although rather timid with the girls, he ,made quite an agreeable impression. Then came the crowning event of the year, when the boys, realizing that they were rather indebted to the girls, decided to give them a banquet, which was to be held at the Kress home. The arrangements went along smoothly and on the appointed evening nearly the whole class was present. After a live-course supper, the real business of the occasion, namely, the toasts, began- These were in striking contract to those at the previous parties, nearly all being model discourses on the alloled subjects. Perhaps an exception to this was the talk of Milton Jackson, who quite forgot his subject in unwinding a fairy tale. Edward Bahlke talked about half an hour on Cnr Pastf' Mabel Wynne de- voted some time in exploiting the sweetness of her disposition. Along towards the last came the talk, however, which all waited for in breath- less suspense. This was the toast given by Hugh Bartley, who told how grand it was to have a class conscience, and further stated that a good name is rather to be chosen than great richesf, After a few other toasts the members of the class left for home, again to resume uninterrupted their duties in school. This for the past, of the future no man can tell.

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Ellie GBremge smh Zfilarkv Rearrangecl by F. D. Oswald. Tune, Grange and Black. Although other schools may favor their emblems fond and true, The maroon, the cream the crimson or gray and navy blue. We will flght for black so noble, for orange We would die, As we won: for dear old Alma and the folks at Alma high. As our school days fast are fleeting, with joy we can look back, We see the base hall victories, just so foot ball and track. We love athletics dearly, on high we hold our pride, As our boys push on through battle, winning victories side by side. When through the years to come, friends, through life's crook,cl way we roam We like our friends are gray now, our only hope is home. But as we sit and ponder, our memories soon turn hack, We see ourselves together 'neath the orange and the black,

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JUNIOR CLASS, 1911