Reading Memorial High School - Pioneer Yearbook (Reading, MA)

Text from Pages 1 - 312 of the 1938 volume:

VW ' S- . rN THE PIONEER Reading High School Reading , Massachusetts Graduation Number JUNE NINETEEN THIRTY - EIG H The Pioneer Nineteen thirty- eigh Pioneer Board Editor-in-Chief Marjorie Morss W rite-ups Peter Curl Doris Donegan Alice Flynn Jeannette Forbes Muriel Kelly Norma Kendall Richard Lyons George Madden Malcolm McGann Myles O’Donnell Orville Poland Muriel Putnam Marie Reed Edith Southwick SUSETTE WEIGMANN News Editor Malcolm McGann Athletic Editors Mary Widell John Sawyer Exchange Editor Virginia Watson Art Senior Art Staff Business Managers Robert Clinch Richard Stratton ’39 Eacuity Advisers Miss England — Literary Miss MacIver — Typing Mr. Halpin — Business Mr. Kibbee —Art A- —$ Dedication This issue of the Pioneer ue dedicate to our parents, who have given us life and with it our first great opportunity of learning the responsibilities of life and who have watched our progress, urging us on, continually bolstering our courage, cheering us with love and optimism, sacrificing, hoping, working, and praying that our under¬ takings, great or small, may be accomplished. TO THE CLASS OF 1938 As graduation day approaches, the seniors of the class of 1938 realize that the time of parting is near. With graduation, we shall get those elusive diplomas, then separate and go our various ways and this small hard earned piece of paper, for which we have worked so strenuously, is in reality our dismissal from Reading High School. With a little lump in our throats, we say good¬ bye to the school which we have learned to cherish; good-bye to the friends we are about to leave behind. The many happy hours we have spent here have gone forever, and we shall become severed from friends who have grown dear to our hearts. Some of these friends we may see occasionally; others we shall never see again. Thus, many of the friendships we have made and enjoyed during our high school years will he soon but a memory. The graduating class may be likened to a fleet of ships. We have been fitting out; most of us are yet to he completed, but soon we shall join those who have already sailed. We leave for distant ports; some of us have already determined our objective and set our course; others of us are still undetermined, awaiting that which will send us outward and onward, through storm and calm, under dark forbidding clouds and smiling skies. Some will find rich cargoes, some will explore the outermost realms of knowledge, some few will sink, others will drift from view, not again to be seen or heard from. May these “unreported” be a small minority—that drifting down the years, we shall not lose the friendships, acquaintances, and happy memo¬ ries of these high school years. All too soon responsibilities are sure to he placed upon us. Let us remember to bear them thoughtfully and carefully. No longer are we happy-go-lucky, care¬ free boys and girls hut young men and women, who have reached an important crossroad in life. Let us take life seriously, so that as our individual opportu¬ nities come upon us, we shall be ready. Let us utilize the fine training we have received in Reading High to help us to success. If we do, when our work in this world is finished, we shall know full well in our hearts that we have done our best for others, for our country, and for ourselves. Marjorie Morss ’38 AFTER HIGH SCHOOL—WHAT? es, its June again, and one more group of care¬ free boys and girls, having just completed success- full) a course either of their own or their parents’ choice, enters an exacting business world. Formerly the young people have been well sheltered and pro¬ tected by their parents, but now they must choose for themselves what they are to do with the view ' to sup¬ porting themselves. Some, of course, will go on to a higher educational training. For these the necessity of saying for certain, “I am to be so and so,” whether executive or doctor, is postponed for a few more years. Yet those who must now definitely decide as to their future occupation—what are they to do? Can they just enter any profession which appeals to them? Indeed no, at least not in a time of specialization, as today must certainly be recognized by all as being. Then, how does one go about this task? First each one should ask himself, “What can I do and do well? Is there chance of advancement? Would further study aid me in this choice of life work? If so, what? And, will this choice always be interest¬ ing to me? Do I enjoy it enough to stay on the job?” Especially this last question—how important it is! No one can possibly do well a job he violently dislikes. His surroundings and companions, if they are pleasing to him, will be a great asset. So it appears, to find the correct occupation will take a great deal of serious consideration. Indeed this is perhaps one of the greatest obstacles encoun ' ” c ‘d on the path of life—choosing a life voca¬ tion. 1 one can succeed in every business—there is some particular job which he is best able to accom¬ plish, and it is toward the goal of obtaining that which we are suited for that we all must strive. Certainly it would be a happy thing if someone could foretell the future, and by consulting him we could establish ourselves just where we belong. But life is not so simple as that! It is necessary for one to think for oneself, and only by a slow, meditative pro¬ cess can just the right vocation be ascertained. True, perhaps a few may choose wrongly, but if they centered more thought on this point before reach¬ ing the time limit, wouldn ' t the reasoning be likely to be more logical? If everyone planned his high school course with a definite goal in view, the risk of a poor choice would be greatly lessened. High School gives one an excellent vocational training and prepares one for the average job, but early thought and guidance are a necessity and a personal responsibility. So, to our Seniors who must choose now, I say, all good luck and may you be most successful. And to the undergraduates, maj I proffer the suggestion that ou Continued on page Twenty-eight The Pioneer IN ET E E N THIRTY-EIGHT John Colley President “Buzzie,” that little girl with those delightful dimples, has served as the able vice-president of our class for two years. Many and varied are her outside interests: dancing, tennis, bike riding, and horse-hack riding to men¬ tion but a few. She is planning to. attend Miss Wheelocks School and become a kindergarten teacher. Lucky kiddies! “Buzzie” abhors math— don’t worry you won’t have to teach it in kindergarten ! Now our friend, John, is an excep¬ tion to the rule of silent individuals. You can ' t suppress him. If Mr. Dixon gets too extreme, President Colley tenderly guides him to the right. When Mrs. Wiens becomes perplexed about what to do with “The Queen’s” Hus¬ band ' s blundering characters, John puts everyone in his place with a few direct Statements. Duke University and Bar Examinations will have to Hit by speedily. We need another Conservative on the Supreme Court Bench. Elizabeth Barstow Vice President Doris Donegan Secretary “Dot,” another of the Intellectual Ten, hopes to enter the ranks of the teaching brigade after attending Tea¬ chers’ College. We shall always re¬ member “Dot” as one of the helpful, dependable girls of our class, serving as our most capable class secretary. She says that her pet aversion is con¬ ceited boys and maintains that most of them are. My, wasn’t she lucky to find the perfect specimen? I agree with you, Frank is a grand fellow but he has the worst habit of reminding us to pay our dues. If our class treasurer could just forget the dues (as I do), we would get along fine. Frank is the more serious type, for his ambition is to see the world at peace; so would we all, Frank, and I hope we will! Frank. Davis Treasurer The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight Frances Amirault Giddy’s” ambition is to be a tele¬ phone operator. If this ambition is reached, there ' ll be more conversations with the operator than with another party. People will be calling just to hear that giggle—who could forget it? Giddy” has a variety of hobbies : piano playing, skating and dancing. Her pet aversion is people who stare too hard. But we can’t blame people for staring at “Giddy” — a number of peo¬ ple like brown eyes. Jesse Anderson “Andy”, who hails from the West Side, is the boy we saw puffing around the four mile course Patriot’s Day. Jess, through the aid of his nimble fin¬ gers, hopes to type his way to fame, for he plans to give the world ' s champ¬ ion speed typist some mean competi¬ tion. Jess says that as a rule his pet dislike is women. Would we doubt him? (Sarcasm). Barbara doesn ' t seem to think so. Through the tele¬ scope “Andy” sees a P. G. course and a future in business. Oh, of course, the world’s speed typing champion¬ ship ! Lillian Arsenault Folks, I want you to meet “Lil.” She is interested in all sports and specializes in skating. After an exhibition of her skating, Sonja Henie just won’t have a chance. “Lil’s” plans for next year are to get a good position and keep it. That’s |uite a big order for such a little girl to fill, but we are sure that Lil and Success will be great compan¬ ions. “Lil” is one of the few souls who know that silence is golden ! Alice Bailey “Abe” is one of those reticent peo¬ ple who refuse to tell us what their hobbies are—we think we know, but we won’t divulge anything. She is headed for business school and later wants to be a secretary. Her favorite subjects (noble gal!) are U. S. History and typing, but what she really dis¬ likes (like most of us) is homework — in any subject! Abe must be broad¬ minded because she is equally fond of two very unlike things—skating and swimming. Her “happy medium is tennis. Clarence Baker “Al” is that tall, shy, nicely mannered senior who is so popular with his fel¬ low classmates. His hobbies are stamp collecting and photography, while his pet aversion is French. He aspires to become an officer in the United States Navy. Just wait, girls, till you see him in the Navy-Blue and Gold. Daniel Barrett “Flash” Barrett, our master virtuoso on the “bull fiddle, won last year’s state and New England championship on his noble instrument. He may be musical, but he is also brisk to the core and a sworn hater of the British. Dan’s thundering retorts to Mr. Dixon’s ora¬ tory change the history class from a riot into a revolution. He is going to Boston College next year with a posi¬ tion in the Metropolitan Orchestra as his main objective. Helen Barrett Do any of you intend to become a doctor? If so, you will certainly need a secretary, and here is the perfect one for such a job. Helen is quiet, efficient, and dependable; therefore your trade secrets would be secrets with her. If she has any spare time from such a demanding position, Helen will pursue her interesting hobby of “candid-camera-ing.” We know Helen will find happiness, for her pleasant ways should bring friends and suc¬ cess. Mary Barrett Mary belongs to the more studious element of the high school. She enjoys math and French and hopes someday to teach one or both of them. Mary, a hard worker, who spends her spare time behind a music stand or on the tennis courts, should go over big at Emmanuel College. Five The Pioneer N i n e t e e N THIRTY - EIGHT Emerson Batch elder Hail! to a future Olympic skier. There ' s no doubt that this fellow can certainly melt the snow with those sticks. Besides skiing, “Batch” has been an active member of the Hi-Y (he swims!) and has been on and off the traffic squad. We hear that his father has given him a brand new car, so we will probably see still more of “Emmy” around Vale Road. Thelma Bates Have you got spring fever too, Bate- sy? Are you sure it is that spring and not anything else that has giv¬ en you the fever? Batesy is a great singer and dancer. Judging from her ambition to be a good stenographer, she is going to give singing a backseat. Maybe she is saving it for someone special! How about it, Batesy? George Batten We never have quite decided whether George has any real inventive genius or whether he just likes to draw. However, the classroom, especially his¬ tory, simply wouldn’t be the same without his subtle humor to liven things up. At present, George ' s main ambi¬ tion is to sail the seven seas in a South American trader, so we wish him bon voyage and hope that he can swim. Arthur Beaman If anyone should fall out of an air¬ plane and ask you what time it is, look closely for it may be “Art.” For this good-looking lad is planning an avia¬ tion career. He just loves to tinker with model gas motors and see what makes them run. I hear he’s quite a hand at making models. So keep it up, old boy, and don’t forget to pack your parachute when you go off to Boewing Aviation School. Arthur Beaudoin New Hampshire State is going to receive as a student a blue-eyed young¬ ster who is always ready wun a snap¬ py comeback, either an eighty yard runback or the wise crack variety. Art excels in both. If you happen to see any old milk bottles around, just save them for “Art . He is Read¬ ing’s famous collector of old and as¬ sorted milk bottles, fie probably has a good reason for this, but no one has ever discovered it. Margaret Bennett “Peggy”, the quiet sister of the viv¬ acious “Austy”, is a student of the Civics and Business Course. She is one of those ambitions girls on our hockey team, and when she is not on the field, her favorite diversions are walking and bike riding. Many of us know her as the gracious hostess of pleasant, so cial evenings. “Peggy” en¬ joys reading, history and shorthand. We are afraid she will have to conquer her dislike for homework if she real¬ izes her ambition to attend Burdett ' s next year. You’ll make many friends with your quiet, friendly manner, “Peg.” Allen Boyd Our flashy page in the Senior Play and former public speaking genius, we also know as one of our most jovial and carefree classmates. Allen’s main interests are in Sea Scouts, Boy Scouts and Hi-Y, but he has chemical engi¬ neering in mind for his future career. We wish him all the luck in the world and hope that “being small,” as he calls it, will prove to have its decided ad¬ vantages. Annette Brown “Brownie, one of those energetic souls who helped make the Senior Play possible by scaring up properties, is a Fine Arts devotee, so next year she plans to attend Vesper George. She is a hockey fan to say nothing of a participant in swimming, skiing, and skating. No doubt she is a genius, as her favorite subjects are geometry, his¬ tory and art. Her hobby is collecting hockey pictures, and she hopes to be¬ come an artist. Six The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight Elaine Browne With the sweet strains of a violin, we introduce you to “Lish” who has been one of Mr. Peck’s most reliable members in the orchestra, glee club and chorus. “Lish” intends to go on a trip to Ireland someday, but in the mean¬ time she plans to attend Burdett ' s. After that it’s a private secretary for “Lish !” Besides wielding a bow, Lish can swing a mean baseball bat. Many a time she has hit that ball so hard, you would think she had a grudge against it. Poor inoffensive bat! Lish is so satisfying and pleasing that even the worst grouch would take her as a secretary. Good luck to you, Lish. Nelson Burbank We know “Nel” as the fellow whose pleasing smile and brown curly hair accent a handsome countenance. He has carried a pigskin for dear ’ol Read¬ ing High since he was an insignificant sophomore. Between athletics and school activities, he is a very busy chap. We thought “Nel” a bashful gentleman, but lately he has acquired a side-kick. Well, just keep smiling, “Nel.” Mary Callan Many of us have noticed this Titian¬ haired damsel strolling around with a friendly greeting for everyone. “Cal” loves to travel, and therefore she in¬ tends to go to work as soon as she finishes at Burdett’s in order to make enough money to travel in style. All by yourself, “Cal”? Besides riding, “Cal” enjoys swimming and walking. English and shorthand are her favorite subjects, and she joins the great ma¬ jority in heartily disliking homework and exams. Elizabeth Carter Betty is that sweet, soft-spoken member of the Glee Club who has a deep, mysterious interest in Marble¬ head—or is it one inhabitant of Mar¬ blehead, Betty? Betty plans to take a P. G. and then to go in training to be a nurse. Who’d mind being sick with such a nurse? Whenever you see Betty folding up small pieces of news¬ paper, it’s probably a picture of a hock¬ ey star, for she’s an ardent hockey tail. Betty says that homework is her pet aversion; yet she likes French. Figure that out if you can. Good luck, Bette , and here’s hoping that when a hockey player is injured, he’ll have you for a nurse. Herbert Carter This year, “Herb” has been gener¬ ously applying his sparkling wit to such “snap” courses as Physics, English, U. S. History and French. In fact, this enterprising young man has consistent¬ ly been among the first two students of his populous French class. Cross country contests in ’36 and ’37 gave “Herb” plenty of wind for lengthy re¬ citations in English. There is still a large surplus left over to be put into the forums of the future, for Carter aspires to be a speaker to the popu¬ lace. Willis Carter Extra! Extra! Will may be seen every evening with a paper bag slung over his shoulder pedaling a “bike” about the streets of Reading. Will is one of these roller skating enthusiasts who live on a rink when his time is not taken up by his car or radio. “Nick” plans to attend radio school in the fall and then become an engineer in that profession. Madeline Chisholm Remember the good times in Public Speaking, “Chizzie”? The homework sometimes wasn’t what we would have chosen, but we did it, or else! I won’t go into details. “Chizzie” is going to be another Clara Barton. Be sure when you’re taking a nice young man’s pulse that you take his pulse and not his heart. Maybe he wouldn’t mind though. Good luck to you and best wishes for a successful career in nurs¬ ing, “Chizzie”. Johnina Clapperton Most any girl winning a citizenship contest in her senior class would be pretty proud of herself, but you don’t find “Dolly’s” head swelling! That’s a pretty good test of a girl right there, isn’t it? “Dolly” plans to supplement the secretarial course she’s taking now with a P. G. next year. Her pet aver¬ sion is book reports and her hobby is bicycling. If anyone is looking for a girl with a good nature, “Dolly’s” the one! Her ambition is to be a sec¬ retary. Lucky employer! Seven T h e Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight Mava Classen “Duchess, who good-naturedly takes the jokes that are made about her avoirdupois, has it all over a lot of her friends when it conies to shining on the dance floor. We shudder to think what would have happened to the field hockey and basketball teams with¬ out her. Mava hates to go to bed early, (is that the reason you look so tired some mornings, Mava?) and personal¬ ly, we think she’s got something there. Yassah! Long may you reign, “Duch¬ ess”. Richard Cleveland Dick is a thorough sportsman and takes part in golfing, hockey and es¬ pecially in cross country running. In practically all our high school running events, it seems to be Dick ' s curly head that pops over the finish line first. Out¬ side of sports he is interested in mak¬ ing airplanes and in U. S. History, but we can ' t keep from mentioning sports again when were discussing Dick, for his ambition is to win the B. A. A. Marathon. We’ll all be cheering for you, Dick ! Robert Clinch Introducing “Clinchy”—goes in for golf and Latin, is on the business board of the Pioneer, has been one of our stalwart traffic officers, is constantly driving, riding, or sailing, and if not at DeMolay, may usually be found at “Starlight. He lists his hobbies as “swinging one down and “girls”. Did you hear that, girls? Now you’re only a hobby. “Clinchy” says that he’d like to be an orchestra leader—and any of the dismayed teachers who watch him truck in classroom will probably agree that lie is well-suited to such a profession, but “Clinchy” goes on to say that lie will probably enter news¬ paper work. In spite of his happy-go- lucky manner, “Clinchy” has taken a Classical Course, so lie probably is just as well fitted for his second choice of profession as for his first. Ellsworth Croswell Ellsworth, or Seafer,” which is more like it, is a busy man. What with worki ng in school and also after school in the Economy Store, how do you get your homework done? But never mind, after this year, you won’t have to devise the excuses that you think the teacher will digest. Seafer” plans to go to the Boston School of Anatomy and Embalming. Not a cheerful pros¬ pect, but with his jollity and high spir¬ its, he will never feel blue. Keep it up, Seafer”. Peter Curl Pete is that tall, dignified young man, whose thoughtfulness and court¬ esy have made him a favorite with both students and faculty. He seems to make a success of everything he undertakes from his persuasive argu¬ ments in the debating club to his con¬ vincing performance as a foreign diplo¬ mat in the class play. He is a ver¬ satile fellow, participating in cross country, Pioneer staff, and the French club, and on top of all that, ranks third in his class. How do you do it? He justly deserves the Faculty Hon¬ ors which have been awarded to him. He expects to enter Harvard by way of Exeter to prepare for teaching 01 for the diplomatic service. One of his pet aversious is dancing—couldn ' t we do something about that, girls? Frederick Dacey Fred, a class A gymnast, keeps in trim by walking, for he covers the dis tance from Hampshire Road to Read¬ ing Square many times daily. Last win¬ ter, we saw him tossing the melon through the hoops on the Junior High School gym floor. Yes, he is a basket¬ ball player. Fred, who has a liking for his bookkeeping, wishes to land a job as an accountant in the future. Jeanette Davis “Davis needs no introduction, for she of the sparkling eyes and gracious smile is one of our brightest stars. Known for her athletic skill, she is also a very active member of Rainbow, and as if these activities did not keep her busy enough, she devotes most of the rest of her time to a certain equally famous boy-athlete of our school. Jeanette says that she intends to grace a hospital ward in some future time, but since she first will attend Simmons, we wonder how long “Frannie” will wait. Dorothea Domin Dot, one of the 5th period English gigglers, is a sports enthusiast and has been the stalwart center on the girls’ basketball team. She follows the Sec¬ retarial Course; appropriately then, her ambition is to be a good secretary. Next year she’d like to go to business school. Her favorite subjects, in line with her interest, are Stenography. English and Business Law. Eight The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight Roger Dooley “Flash”, unlike his name, is that quiet person whom we see meandering along the corridors apparently in search for something. Possibly that something is a pair of roller skates, for roller skating is “Flash’s” favorite recrea¬ tion. A large oil company will some day take its orders from this unob- strusive, but determined young man. for “Flash” has a definitie goal to work for. Run, fellars, here conies a bull! That’s what the opposition said when “Jake” came charging down the field. John was football captain and by his hard work he certainly earned his title : “Bull” of the gridiron. He likes to indulge in hunting or fool around with old guns. The ladies have lost their spot in John’s heart, and chemistry and history have gained it. The loss is hard for the girls, for John is a fine fellow as well as a good football play¬ er. Elizabeth Emery Betty is that pleasant, good-natured, and ambitious girl who is an enthu¬ siastic player on our basketball team. After high school Betty hopes to fur¬ ther her education and her ambition is to become a success. May you be as successful in the game of life as you have been in the game of basketball. Lawrence Enos That dark-haired fellow swinging along, a good humored smile on his face, is “Tuse”, who has been the effi¬ cient manager of several of our ath¬ letic teams during the past three years. Assistant-in-chief to John and Charlie, in the summer “Tuse” trains in the National Guard—evidently he believes that “There’s something about a sold¬ ier.” His pet aversion is original to say the least—he hates haircuts. Thank goodness that there’s one lad who real¬ izes that boys look like shorn rabbits when they have a fresh haircut. Law¬ rence’s next goal after graduation is a top grade in civil service exams, and a government job. Alice Estey Who in the eighth period history class does not immediately recognize “Babe” as that graceful girl who sits in the back of the room and is con¬ stantly losing shoes and books? “Babe” wants to be an army nurse, but how can she “truck” at the same time. For we would hardly recognize “Babe” if she were not dancing. But then, she also wants to marry a tall, dark, and handsome millionaire—don’t we all? Perhaps there is some connection be¬ tween millionaires and the army, but we wouldn’t know. Alice Flynn “Flickie” is taking the secretarial course, but with those big brown eyes we’re thinking she won’t be a secretarv long. Eh, “Flickie”? Her favorite hobby is dancing and her pet aversion is staying after school. We all agree. “Flickie.” Here’s hoping you get your millionaire! Jeannette Forbes Jeanette has shown great ability in acting and will always be remembered as the “Princess” of our class plav. Such an ambitious young lady! Not only has she hopes of becoming a great opera singer, but she also aspires to become a brunette Sonja Henie. Among other things she adores dancing and having a good time. She is headed fnt- Katherine Gibbs and then a business career as somebody’s dependable sec¬ retary. Here’s lots of luck to a girl with plenty of pep, wit, and ambition. Nine The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY - EIGHT Marjorie Foye “Margie” has taken the Accounting Course in our famed hall of knowledge. She goes out for sports, especially bas¬ ketball. I remember—I remember “O excuse me.” 1 don’t mean to give away any secrets; “Margie” plans to go to business school and be a success in a business. With that pleasant person¬ ality she would make a go of anything. “Margie” has been that non-failing cashier during the second lunch period, and she has done wonders to increase the trade. Keep on doing what you’re doing and you’ll be a success, “Margie.” Pauline Glover If you see a tall, dainty miss tripping down the corridors of R. H. S., it’s “Polly”. She goes out for tennis and dancing and her favorite subjects are English, and Problems of Democracy. Pauline also dislikes homework, along with many others. Good luck to the future Helen Wills Moody. Alice Godfrey “Al” is one of those sensible girls who is hoping for a job. She wants office work and not house-work. What will you do when you’re married? Her pet aversions are housework and work¬ ing her brain. “Al’s” outside interests are swimming and entertaining. Well, we hear “Al’s” a good entertainer, anyhow. Alice Gonnam “Dogwood”—as Alice is called by most of her friends—is that girl of sparkling smile and constant good hu¬ mor, whose great interest is art. Any¬ one who has seen samples of her work will not wonder that she is contemplat¬ ing Commercial Art School as next year’s activity. However, Reading High may be enlivened by her presence for yet another year—she’s a potential P. G. Tennis is her greatest interest outside of school as homework is her greatest aversion. Well, Alice, that doesn’t seem a bit unusual! ■ Robert Gray This tall, dignified secretary of the Hi-Y is one of the most versatile fel¬ lows in R. H. S. Besides preparing thoroughly for his future business car¬ eer, “Bob” knows all there is to know about photography and is terribly in¬ terested in stamps, skiing, and orches¬ tra. He’ll surely make a success in life, and we don’t mean perhaps. Bertram Goodwin “Bert ' s school hours have been spent in the Civic and Business Preparatory course, preliminary to attending next year Bryant and Stratton’s or Burdett’s —all this to prepare for his special ambition; to be a big business man and retire young with a large fortune. “Bert’s talents run also to things ar¬ tistic, and this past spring he made a permanent contribution to the beauty of the school by painting and refinish¬ ing the statues and friezes throughout . another accom- Barbara Griffith “Bab, who lends her voice to our Glee Club is that dark attractive girl whose good nature and pleasing per¬ sonality have made her one of the most popular girls in the senior class. Her hobbies are dancing and reading, and “Bab is planning to go in training as a nurse. Her pet aversion is wear¬ ing rubbers, but we don’t believe she’ll need them, for her worthy aims will just carry her along, above the mud puddles of the world. Ten The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT Virginia Hartshorn Look! Here comes Reading’s own Ina Ray Hutton. We ' re swinging for you, “Ginger.” Your favorite subjects may be Type and Probs, but how about good old English ? Remember those oral book reports! Only a minute long, but what we didn’t get into that min¬ ute ! Ho hum, time to get up. “Ginger” opens one eye, turns over, and is deep in dreamland again. Now I ask you, is that the proper thing to do? A little cold water will help. Dancing is “Gin¬ ger’s” hobby, and she certainly does it well. Perhaps vou will dance your way to fame. We all hope so. Elizabeth Higgins “Bette” is that tall attractive senior who is artistically inclined. Art is her favorite subject, and she intends to pursue this interest at the Vesper George School of Art. Her hobbies are badminton, sailing, and swimming. She is in the Glee Club and is an active member of the Junior Woman’s Club. “Bette” doesn’t like chaperons—she wants to be “alone.” But not all alone, do you, Bette”? George Hodgkins “Little Midge” is the peppy little fellow with the gay chuckle who can usually be found on the courts, rac¬ quet and tennis ball in hand. Although English is one of George’s favorite sub¬ jects, Burke’s Conciliation Speech is his acknowledged pet aversion; (I think you have something there, George). George, who has distinguished himself in high school for excellent scholarship and seriousness of purpose, plans to spend the next four years in the lec¬ ture halls of Northeastern. Robert Holden “Hokey” would be a whizz at the head of a labor union. He’d win all bis fellow workers’ support with his jokes and good intentions. The em¬ ployers would burst blood vessels over “Bob’s audacity, but would in the end give in to bis demands. “Hokey’s” a persistent little chap, much to the de¬ spair and anguish of the faculty. But he’ll fool us all yet some day. Benjamin Howe Ah, enter His Royal Highness, Prince William of Greek, heart-throb-in-chief of the Senior Play. This tall, blonde gentleman who is famed for his fast driving, hopes some day to be an army pilot or a transport pilot for Pan American. I can see the company’s going to get rich. Ben says his hob¬ bies are flying (that’s no word for it) and travelling to distant places. Ah, the wanderlust! No lover of either school or homework, he nevertheless likes history and geometry, follows the college course, and avoids state inspec¬ tors, the office and classes—whenever possible. We’re off to the races in a cloud of dust! Brendon Hoyt Here’s our inimitable “Brendy,” a grand person and our favorite base¬ ball star. His good humor and care¬ free manner have made him famous and his wit has been tried out on all of us, including members of the fac¬ ulty (Ask Miss Ernst). Most of “Brendy’s” spare time is spent in North Reading; therefore, we can’t expect him to be very enthusiastic about any of his studies. It’s unusual to dislike things that you know very little about, but “Brendy” has a decided distaste for homework. We’ll be seeing you in the Big League, “Bun!” Ruth Hoyt “Sis” is not only one of our smaller members; she is our youngest. Out¬ side of this, she is another prospective nurse. She intends to return next year for a post-graduate course, then on to training. Her widely diversified out¬ side interests range from dancing to baseball (naturally!) “Sis” is another of those brave people who have a pref¬ erence for geometry, but her feeling for English themes is decidedly the op¬ posite. Perhaps she’ll dance her fu¬ ture patients to sleep ! Betty Ives Betty has completed a Secretarial Course and is headed for more business next year. She is one of the more musical gals in R. H. S., having been to the Music Festival each year. Bet¬ ty likes foreign correspondence and traveling (by water) Here’s to Betty who has no aversions because nothing bothers her. Eleven Pioneer N I N E T E E N THIRTY - EIGHT The Lillian Ivester Pinkie , our diminutive little chum from iNorth Reading, lias taken tne Line Arts Course and is headed tor esper George Art School. She is one ol our best dancers and also a clev¬ er artist. “Pinkie, for two years a peppy cheerleader, has been very ac¬ tive in school affairs. Her interest is Ozz, ; her ambition is to be head buyer tor Saks Fifth Avenue, her fav¬ orite subjects, U. S. History and Art, and her pet aversion is fire drills in February. Elizabeth Jewell “Bette is one of our future nurses, who goes in for everything and has won many friends by doing so. Bette played tennis all through her school years and was quite successful, we hear! “Bette’s” pet aversion is trying to keep quiet. But we understand— it’s hard to keep quiet. Her ambition is to be a nurse or another Amelia Karhart. “Bette’s hobby seems to be the rain, either walkin’ or ridin ' in it. Aren ' t you afraid you’ll get wet, “Bet¬ te”? Priscilla Johnson Wanted: A capable teacher to in¬ struct Miss Johnson to operate a chug- chug (preferably a boy). As we have heard, “Bril ' s ambition is to learn to drive a car, and she is getting nowhere fast. (I wonder if she has stepped on the starter). “Pril’s” pet subject is chemistry. We can understand the reason. Mr. Pope says that it runs in the family. Cil” says that she can see Middlebury in the distance. Well, it isn’t far away, “Cil. Muriel Kelly Here’s one of our future artists. “Mickie” is another of those who haunt Room 1). So it’s no surprise to learn that she is heading for Mass. Art next year. After she finishes there, she intends to be an art teacher. But her real ambition is a “vine-covered farmhouse.” (Why, Muriel!) She can often be found in Geometry, but she cherishes a dislike for any kind of exam. -Say Muriel, can we visit that farmhouse sometime ? Norma Kendall “Norm (“Butch to her close friends) is one of the grandest people going. Our tall, blonde, and good-looking sec¬ retarial student hopes to hold down her job at the library, and fittingly, her ambition is to write a book. More power to you. “Norm . Her outside in¬ terest is a former football captain (all right, all right—it is George) but her hobbies are swimming, reading, and collecting friends. You’ve collected them, “Norm ’, with that smile and the personality plus ! Natalie Kevin “Nat is noted for her subtle humor; certainly her appropriate wisecracks have lightened many a dull hour for her friends. Talking is “Nat’s” salient characteristic—and a profitable one it is because she is our best known public speaker. “Nat enjoys her lunch period best of all, and so do those of us who share it with her, for then we manage to draw from her tales of her adven¬ tures abroad. “Nat” intends to go to college next year where she will shine in horseback riding! Barbara Kimball “Becky is the girl whom we have seen every fall in the past, toting a megaphone through the streets of Reading Saturday afternoons. She hails from parts North, but her inter¬ ests are in the Highlands of Reading. Excuse me! She claims her favorite subjects include Latin, but 1 have my doubts. Becky’s pet aversion is ris¬ ing to greet the morning sun. I)o you blame her? Epson King “Eddie , that husky traffic officer on the second floor, is famed for his hard football playing. We understand that Romeo”, who is fond of danc¬ ing, is quite a hunter too. Although he dislikes homework, Eddie likes sci¬ ence, and he intends to extend the knowledge he has gained through a scientific course, by studying Diesel en¬ gineering in night school. Twelve The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT Theodore Lawson “Roxie is an all-around athlete. In the fall, we see him kicking leather on the soccer field at left outside. In the winter, we find him chasing a puck every afternoon and when spring coitus it’s baseball. We will always remem¬ ber his smile, for it is his smile with which he greets, us. After further edu¬ cation, Roxie” plans to become a suc¬ cessful accountant. Barbara Leach “Barb”, popular with everyone in R. Jl. S., is taking the Secretarial Course. She likes to swim, skate, go to the mov¬ ies, ride horseback, and have fun. She doesn ' t like the cold, but even cold weather doesn’t keep her away from the football games. Guess No. 32 on the football squad makes her forget Jack Frost. How about it. “Barb”? Elinor Littlefield Elinor is the attractive blonde of lovely skin—the girl from whom you purchased your tickets at many of the school games. Elinor’s hobby is at¬ tending the local cinema with a certain young man. She is planning to join the ranks of the P. G.’s next year. She abhors getting up early, but remem¬ ber. Elinor, “early to bed, early to rise will make you healthy, wealthy, and wise.” Ernestine Lowell Teen is a charming, quiet girl who has an earnest desire to aid mankind. She plans to be a nurse, and with such a sane and noble outlook at the beginning, she should have a successful career. “Teen” has also a deep interest in travel and someday hopes to be able to see the world. Best of all, here at last is a modern girl who is actually domestic and likes to sew and to gar¬ den—aren ' t you jealous, girls? Nina Lowell If you hear a sly giggle in the middle of class, don ' t jump. It’s just Nina, who is one of our few redheads. Head¬ ing for the State Normal School, she insists that when she leaves there, she will be a teacher. (Of Latin?) She takes to rather active diversions— badminton, tennis, and basketball — but she says she’s only an amateur. Nina dislikes doing dishes (who doesn’t) and also avoids studying — especially math !—Perhaps that’s why her future pupils will be sure to like her. Richard Lyons This debonair young fellow with the frolicsome grin on his face certainly hits the spot with everyone, especially his classmates. Although “Richie” is active in both Hi-Y and DeMolay, he goes out for tennis in a big way and even tries a little skiing when nobody is looking. His future plans include a P. G. course followed by Plarvard. Good luck! you “haunt.” George Madden Three cheers for “Mumpsy” Madden of the original Mumps. This indomi¬ table young gentleman rose from his sick bed to get his last kiss from his dark-haired leading lady. Anyway, he did a grand job and certainly deserves a lot of credit both for his acting and incidentally for scholastic rating in the Intellectual Ten. It is rumored that George is going to turn his busy per¬ sonality towards M. I. T. next year. Stella Marchetti Our gal “Sal”, of the blonde locks and dancing feet, is one of the best little “truckers” in this old school. But Stella really shines when it comes to “Shaggin.”. Then she goes to town. If you’ll notice Sally’s own hair al¬ ways looks grand, and when Wilfred’s graduates her, she’ll be using her tal¬ ent on the rest of us, we hope. She, too, abhors homework. Likewise, Sally, likewise. Jes’ dance, chillun, jes’ dance! Thirteen The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight Priscilla Mathieson Priscilla, one of the gifted seniors in our music department, plays the flute and sings in the Glee Club. Believe it or not, her hobbies are music and col¬ lecting programs. She is another sen¬ ior who is attracted by the nursing pro¬ fession. They say music hath charms, Priscilla; so maybe you can charm your patients back to health. Malcolm McGann Our witty friend “Wacky” is on the road to Haverford College in the sleepy little town of Philadelphia. The “Pio¬ neer” has worked heavily and overtime the masterful college prof’s abilities, but he still had energy enough to become a white haired butler for King Eric. What was to everyone else a certainty was to Malcolm a surprise when the Maestro landed firmly, with but nine rivals, on the Honor Roll. A few more “surprises” and McGann will find him¬ self on “easy street” towards the White House. Francis McGrath This tall iron-man of soccer with his hefty stride is planning to be an aviation mechanic, but we bet that he takes to the air before long in spite of himself. “Maggie,” one grand fel¬ low and everybody’s friend, is sure to cut or “trample” a way out for him¬ self, wherever he goes. Archibald McMillan “Mack”, from up North, is one of the lovers of the great out-of-doors and manages to remain out in the open a great deal by indulging in his fav¬ orite hobby—deep-sea fishing. “Mack” disdains the frivolous, particularly dancing, and intends to become an ex¬ pert at telling you just what is wrong with your old Model A. We wish you luck, “Mack.” Isabelle McSheehy “Izzy” is the girl who always gre ets you with her bright sunny smile. She enjoys skating, bicycle-riding, and don ' t be surprised if you see “Izzy” whizz by on a motor-cycle. She is another one of those Tommy Dorsey fans and likes to swing it! Her ambition will be fulfilled after attending the School of Occupational Therapy. “Iizzy’s” pet aversion is people who gossip, so be careful and don’t talk yourself into a fight with “Izzy”. Richard Merrill Hold everything, gang! Here comes the “Flash —a speed demon on the basket ball floor and the largest one- fifth of the Flying Quints. It was “Bud”, who with shot after shot put R. H. S. on the basket ball map. Foot¬ ball too claimed Bud, as the star quar¬ terback. B. U. is getting a fine pros¬ pect in our “Flash.” Just play as you always did, Bud, and we will be pay¬ ing to see you. Russell Merrill Stop! Don’t you see that red light? Why it’s “Red Merrill! Remember Red”? He is that tall, tall fellow who is as strong as an ox, and can be fight! Never pick a fight with him because you would be flat on the ground wondering what had happen¬ ed. But “Red” isn’t all savage. He has a fancy and a brain too,—for Problems of Democracy and Econo¬ mics. This strong man is going to wrestle with the plugs and whatever else at a radio operating board. Just don’t wrestle too hard or your pay en¬ velope will probably be a little thinner than the time before. Who knows but what we may be hearing you sing over the radio sometime? Stranger things than that have happened. Donald Miller “Don” is one of the reasons the traf¬ fic squad was so popular. “Don” is a Cross Countrvite, a baseball devotee, an erstwhile football hero, and a mem¬ ber of Hi-Y. Northampton Prep will claim him next year, and then Dart¬ mouth. Beau Brummel hopes some day to be a first class chemical eng- neer. When not in Greenwood, he likes a variety of sports including that mania of boys the world over: hunt¬ ing and fishing. Fourteen The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT Marjorie Morss Presenting the third member of the Forbes - Johnson - Morss entente. “Trucker” deluxe, “Marjie” joined the ranks of R. H. S. in 1936, and so Read¬ ing’s gain was Medford’s loss. Num¬ ber 5 on the Honor Parade, a member of the Debating Club, of Junior Woman’s Club, Rainbow and Ushers, and editor of the “Pioneer” this fount of energy, plans to attend Bates—“to be a co-ed, to teach co-eds, and to marry some Prince Charming!” A staunch BennyGoodmanite, she likes U. S. History and German, hates math and sour pickles, and follows the Com¬ prehensive Course. Truck on down, “Marjie.” Arthur Moulton Aviation seems to be “Art’s” special aim in life, and does he go in for it in a big way! While he takes up mod¬ el airplane building, especially gas models, as a pastime, he is headed for an aeronautical school to become a designer. However, his ability in other fields is just as keen, for will we ever forget his grand lighting job in the Senior Play? Russell Galvin “Russ” did a splendid job of manag¬ ing the football team and his basket¬ ball was up to “snuff” too. “ Russ’ ” main interests are tennis and swim¬ ming. He has taken the Civic and Business Course and his favorite sub¬ jects are typewriting and occupations. Here’s wishing you luck, Russ. Betty Nichols Betty, that pleasant, cheerful, young lady of the easy grin, and curly locks, has been active in basketball and horseback riding during her high school years. Her pet aversion is be¬ ing called “Bettums.” We wonder why! The faculty have found Betty to be a very obliging and efficient typ¬ ist. Next year she is headed for a business school and with her great ability and accommodating manner we know she will make the perfect sec¬ retary someday. Paul Nichols “Nick” is the tall fellow who looks quiet and isn’t. He ' s a golfer and a glee-club enthusiast—and we hear he has been going in for opera in a b ig way lately. He intends, however, to work next year and will attend night school to look further into Diesel en¬ gineering. He tells us he has a fond¬ ness for brunettes—little ones—oh, Paul! He is quite an aviator in a “small” way and is one of those strange varieties who like to work. Here’s to you, “Nick;” we’ll be hear¬ ing of you. Emerson Oliver “Oily” joined the class of ’38 this year, having come from Everett. He is a member of Hi-Y, and interested also in sailing and skiing. He plans to go to prep school next year and eventually to college for an art course. May you always live and paint on the bright side of life. Esther Ouimette Stop, look, and listen! What do you see? Why it’s “Easter,” of course. Who else would it be, but our own “Easter” with her jolly greeting for everyone. She doesn’t just talk, no sir, but she also likes to take nice long walks to Wakefield. “Easter” frankly tells us that she abhors snob¬ bish people, and I’m sure there would be no snobbish people left in the world if they all knew “Easter,” our little stenographer-to-be. Here’s a truckload of happiness for you, “Eas¬ ter,” with best wishes from good old Alma Mater. Ruth Parry “Porky” is our musical student—both with a violin and her own voice. She likes the dear old R. H. S. so much that she intends to return for a P. G. —then on to Bryant and Stratton. After this, we hear that she has de¬ signs on her future boss—good luck, Ruthie! We suspect that she is some¬ thing of a meanie, for her favorite oc¬ cupation is “borrowing” soap from ho¬ tels. Another souvenir hunter, eh! Fifteen The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT Doris Peterson Here is our cheery little girl, one with plenty of courage, synonomous for Dot. Dot’s passions are stamp collecting and singing, this last auto¬ matically making her a Glee Cluber. When she finishes her education, she would like to be a radio singer. Hurry up, Dot, for goodness’ sake. There are some awful ones at present. Orville Poland Who’s going to win the next elec¬ tion? Well, just ask “Ozzie” Poland, our redheaded authority on politics and government. Although “Ozzie” will probably be one of our future senators, he is, at present, cross-coun¬ try letterman, president of the Hi-Y, a veteran of the senior play, and mana¬ ger of our traffic force. Harvard ought to be glad to get a fellow like him, for it will add zest to the history classes. Ralph Pomeroy A big name and a bigger boy; one of the soldiers in the Senior Play who wore everyone out laughing at his an¬ tics at rehearsals and otherwise, Bull’s” favorite subjects are History and Latin; his favorite sports, golf and football. The future better-half of “(Jueenie tells us that his hobby is jerking sodas at Howard Johnson’s. His ambition? We quote: “To be as great as I am big.” Mary Proncko This is the imp, the trial of Mr. Pope’s life. “Smudge” hopes someday to be a nurse. You’ll better grow, kid¬ die. Her hobbies, she tells us, are any¬ thing a four-year-old child would do. Her favorite subjects are those in which she can make lots of noise, and the pet aversions of this wild woman are math (100%) and conceited people. “Shrimp” was one of the ladies-in¬ waiting in the Senior Play—and how! Elsie Putnam Elsie is our quiet, modest, little Miss of the class. Such a willing and help¬ ful girl though you would have a hard time to find. Try her sometime and see. A member of the Daughters of Union Veterans, Elsie has many good times. Elsie gets awfully jittery when she sees someone biting his fingernails, so boys beware! Don’t say I didn’t warn you! Can’t you just see all the children gathering around her clamoring for a story! Wish I were a child again. John Putnam “I’ll bet he trips,” says one. No, sir, not our Johnny! Why, he’s the danc- ingest man in the class, is our blond haired socialite from North Main Street. “Jock is the type that can serenade his girl and not get a pail of water for applause. Moreover, “Jock” has a voice, and what a voice (not sarcasm). Johnnie,” as friend to friend, give me a couple of passes to the opera when you play in towm. Muriel Putnam “Maizie of the flaxen locks and cheerful grin is one of an army that is legion—she hates oral talks. After all that struggle in Public Speaking 1, Maizie. This tall blonde from the North dotes on collecting old money— I cl rather have new! Next year she will enter some business school, the better to make her already successful secretarial education. Heaven help us,—she wants to be a lawyer’s sec¬ retary. Marie Reed “Dimples” is that cute little chatter¬ box who is such a lot of fun. Never a dull moment when she’s around! She lends her pleasing voice to our chorus and aspires someday to be a professional singer. An all-round girl, Marie enjoys singing, dancing, swim¬ ming, and dining. Next year will find her at Burdett s. May Dame Fortune smile upon you, Marie, but not her daughter Misfortune. Sixteen The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT Arthur Rees Introducing our smooth, handsome major of the Senior Play! However, “Art ' ’ has no real military inclinations hut plans to become a teacher. Al¬ though swimming and ping pong are his tavorite hobbies, we suspect that Hopkins Street is another. May you thrive with the best of them, Major! Marjorie Richards Marjorie is that tall, rather quiet young lady with a merry laugh whose chief ambition in life is to make a happy home for some lucky man. Un¬ til that not too distant time (for she doesn’t enjoy arguing and what more could a man want !) Marjorie will go on into the business world, preferably as a typist. Phyllis Richman Here is one of our U. S. History gigglers, the shorthand ace of the Se¬ nior Class. Although “Phil left us in January to take a job, she visits occasionally to see how the old guard is carrying on. “Phil” dotes on all aquatic sports, but she hopes to be a private secretary. She follows the Secretarial Course, and her favorite subjects are, naturally, shorthand, typ¬ ing, and bookkeeping. Her hobby to say the least, is unique. She likes to collect knicknacks for her knicknack shelf. Herbert Richmond “Herb” has always seemed to be a very quiet rather shy sort of fellow, but we have heard that “you should see him at a party.” Even we have observed, however, the effect that a glance from between those long lash¬ es has on the “weaker” sex. Herb likes the heavy subjects such as math, physics, and cnemistry which give most of us headaches. He does not spend all his time in study by any means, for he also is interested in fishing, hunt¬ ing. skiing, swimimng, and canoeing— alone, in the daytime, of course. Herb plans to go to work and be an inventor —nice work if you can get it and we hope that you do, “Herb.” William Richmond Here’s another young man who is throwing his talent to the winds. We observe the salutatorian headed for the cockpit, a dashing career indeed for one so silent and dignified as “Long Bill Richmond.” It takes Mr. Dixon’s flowing oratory or Mr. Hal- pin’s mistakes in the multiplication table to loosen Bill’s tongue, and once it is loosened be ready with your ans¬ wers! Wherever he goes, Bill sets up a fine reputation. Some day he’ll reap a huge amount of glory. Arthur Roberts “Roberts” doesn’t like singing cow¬ boys. He’s going to be a C. P. A. and he certainly can’t be cluttering up his mind with such yodlings. His close companions in the bookkeeping class know for sure that Roberts certainly has soaked in enough knowledge of figures to become a living figure, if there is such a thing. Ann Robertson “Andy” is the girl with the infectious chuckle and the good-natured grin. She absolutely refuses, however, to appreciate puns—or rather, she appre¬ ciates them the wrong way. She was once heard to remark (very privately) that she disliked sarcastic teachers— whom can she mean, Ann? She wants to go on with secretarial work and later become a secretary or a teacher of commercial subjects. More power to you, “Andy!” Marjorie Rollins Marjorie or “Queenie”, who dotes on chop suey sandwiches, is the tall, dark¬ haired girl who did such a grand job in the class play as the bossy wife of his majesty, the king. Watch out, Ralph! Throughout high school she’s been active in the glee club and an enthusiastic cheer leader at our foot¬ ball games. Her ambition is to be¬ come a dress designer, a second Dolly Tree, so watch for your favorite movie star wearing creations by “Rollins” in the productions of tomorrow. Seventeen The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY - EIGHT Maxwell Ruderman “Max of t!ie liusky voice, punny puns, and dancing feet is one of the mainstays of the brass section of the hand. His ambition—well, we quote: “to be healthy, wealthy, and wise, and to be a great musician.” Not that, Maxie, not that! That topknot of en¬ viable wavy hair will next year accom¬ pany him through a course of prepara¬ tion for a government position. We hope music and politics can be success¬ fully combined, Max! Richard Ruggles “May I borrow the dictionary?” Without looking up, the teacher can guess that the probable inquirer is Ruggles who is in the throes of an English theme, which will probably be of the best, for Richard plans to go to business school and then into news¬ paper work. Outside of looking up spelling, Ruggles divides his time among history, his favorite subject, tennis, DeMolay, soccer and various other sports. Personal notes—Rug¬ gles says that lie’s taking the Compre¬ hensive Course, and he hates fish; re¬ member that when you dream of plan¬ ning his meals, girls. John Sawyer Whenever there is a function of any kind at the Reading High School, Sawyer is called in for decorations. Who can forget his wonderful work in stage-arrangement for our Senior Play? Yes, John is certainly one of our class’s best artists, but most defi¬ nitely not of the artistic temperament —not Sawyer of the generous grin and good nature. He’s also deeply inter¬ ested in Hi-Y—he’s vice president— tennis, and the Pioneer—he’s Art Edi¬ tor and Sports Editor — in fact, he’s quite a busy young man. His ambi¬ tion—can’t you guess—is to be an ar¬ tist, of the commercial type, and with the start lie’s already made, we’re sure that he’ll make a success of such a career! William Shannon “Hello, friends,” this is Bill, the sail¬ or, or perhaps 1 should say sailor-to- be. He has been on the football team for the past two years in order to build up his resistance against the wash of the sea. Bill collects Model T’s in his leisure time. “What leisure time,” says lie, “when I have to milk the cows! Milking cows is a long way from being a sailor, but we know he will make the grade. Have you got your sea legs yet, Bill? Miriam Sidelincer “Side” is that good natured girl that is everybody’s pal. She enjoys swim¬ ming and skating, but her pet hobby is talking. She is also quite a movie fan and goes for Bob Taylor in a big way. Opera singing and straight hair are two of “Side’s” pet aversions. Next year she will be a co-ed at Maine University where she will study to be a social worker. May you talk your¬ self into good job, Miriam! Thomas Skidmore “Skid of the Andy Devine voice is an earnest and determined soul; he wants to go to work right away. Guess what—no aversions—Heaven’s gift to the weary writer-upper. At last some¬ one admits that he likes to tinker around. If you should see a bike rac¬ ing past you with a plump, redheaded gentleman perched precariously on top, don’t be alarmed; it’s “Skid” deliver¬ ing his papers. Richard Smith “Smitty” is the long lanky traffic cop on the second floor, the fellow who carries in his left side pocket the daily news invariably opened to the sporting page. An authority in hock¬ ey and a booster for the Bruins, Dicky is famed for his naive manner and broad engaging smile. His ambition is to become a golf pro; and from his exhibition on the fairways of Meadow Brook not to mention his recent ap¬ pointment as assistant at the club— we are quite optimistic of this achieve¬ ment. Meanwhile, next year, Dick plans to step in his brother’s boot- marks and attend the University of New Hampshire. Edith Southwick Out of the wilderness came “Edie,” to lend a little ray of sunshine to R. H. S. One of the grandest people yours truly has ever known, “Edie’s” passions are dancing, (Remember Jo¬ sephine, yeah!) bowling, and swim¬ ming. Yes, boys unattached, line forms at the right. Ever a sensible soul, “Edie” wants to get a job and hold it. She is one of the shorthand and typing enthusiasts, abhors getting up in the morning and the age-old bane of high school pupils the world over, homework. Next year she plans to attend a business school and con¬ tinue her Secretarial Course. Swing it, keed! Eighteen The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT Ruth Spear “Angel” is another one of those Rainbow Girls. She goes in for danc¬ ing, tennis, stenography, and Benny Goodman in a big way, but hates Cab Calloway and rainy days. However, can anyone notice rain with ‘‘Angel ' s ’ sparkling personality nearby? One of our last year’s seniors seems to have the same idea, and although “Angel” insists that she is to be a private sec¬ retary, we wonder for how long—or does Ray need a secretary to keep his taxi-accounts straight. Herbert Stark “Hugger,” the strong and silent half- hack, is liable to pass out of the photo¬ graph if a girl looks at him twice. He is a woman-hater, is Herb. Heart¬ breaking, isn’t it! Herb wants to be wealthy—now you know why he has an apathy towards the fairer sex. His favorite subject is lunch—what do you eat, fella? Wheaties? Anyway, when the ship comes in, Hugger” will be at the helm. (Who’ll be pilot, Calla¬ han?) Francena Stevens Francena to strangers, but “Mike” to her pals, is one of these girls that radiates all colors imaginable. Get it? She’s a Rainbow girl. Besides Rain¬ bow she likes the movies—not be¬ cause it’s dark, no indeed! It’s the pictures. They hold your attention, or do they, “Mike”? She is going to be a Post Graduate next year. What luck! Pauline Stickland Our lady of the grin. “Sticky,” is one of our future members of the White Parade (freely translated—nurse). In addition to Latin, “Pussy,” also dis- likes straight hair intensely. Her hob¬ by is one “Vicky” (alias “Mow-’em down ) while she fancies English and history. She is of the legions of movie fans and loves skating and swimming. In school she graces the chorus. “Stick is another of those Irregular Coursers and plans to take a P. G. Victorine St. Onge One of our popular co-eds, “Vicky” also answers to “Mow-’em down,”— this clearly shows the gentler side of her nature. She frankly admits that she doesn’t know what she’s going to do next year, but she follows the col¬ lege course and hopes to be a nurse. “Vicky” is an ardent horse-woman and she excels at dancing, likes chemistry and English, and shies away from rainy weather, homework, and deten¬ tion. Be seeing you around, “Vicky.” Mary Story Mary is the athletic type enjoying swimming, tennis, walking, incidentally being one of our star basketball play¬ ers. Her outside interests are Rain¬ bow and dancing. Mary is going in training as a nurse and some day hopes to become a doctor. Dr. Story, what a “cut-up” you’ll be ! Leora Stratton Here comes Lee with that non-fail¬ ing smile of hers. She says she has too many aversions even to attempt to list them, but I don’t know. Leora will always be remembered by her fellow colleagues as one of the office helpers. Lee plans to go to Wilfred’s Academy and study to be a beautician and a stylist. Lucky Wilfred’s! Margaret Sullivan Sue is one of those girls who hates to get up in the morning. How un¬ usual ! She has been very active in tennis during high school, and her fav¬ orite subject is history. (We hope you do mean the subject and not the tea¬ cher!) Sue is taking the secretarial course, so we will probably see her at some prominent position next year. Her ambition is to marry the boss’s son. Whew! Rather a high goal, isn ' t it, Sue, but with that good nature of yours you’re sure to reach it. Nineteen The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY - EIGHT Ruth Surrette Ruth, or “Bubbles” to her childhood pals, has taken a Secretarial Course m hopes to become a secretary. “Bub¬ bles is here, there, and everywhere helping whomever she can. If it weren’t for that cheery smile coming to help us out of our trouble, why we might just as well abandon the ship. We know the way will not be rocky for such a girl as “Bubbles,” and may it be clear sailing from now on. Evelyn Talbot “Tabby” of the ever present grin, evidently believes that many a flower is born to blush unseen, for she writes beautifully and yet prefers to type. In the near future you’ll probably hear of her in connection with the new po¬ litical party, “The Anti-Book Report¬ ers.” Here’s an ambition that’s rather different, thank Heaven—she wants to be a receptionist in a doctor’s office. Long may you grin, “Tabby”! Thelma Taylor “Tommie” is everybody’s pal. Have you ever noticed her pretty brown eyes? You haven’t? Well, take a good look next time. It may not do you any good as she saves them for the lucky fellow in Woburn or is it Andover? What’s the story, “Tom¬ mie”? She plans to enter Wilfred’s and become a beautician. Here’s hop¬ ing you have many customers, “Tom¬ mie!” Hazel Terhune Hazel plans to train to be a private secretary after she completes a P. G. course next year. She dislikes being quiet for long, and her pep and good humor carry her along till lunch time which she enjoys the most, (seventh heaven to us all). Hazel likes winter sports and having her pictures taken. The snow trains seem to have a great deal of attraction for Hazel. How’s the skiing now? Better walking, wouldn’t you say? Never mind, Hazel, winter will be rolling around soon (not rushing the seasons of course), and then you ' ll be back in your Paradise. Leona Thibodeau Lee plans to be a nurse; we certainly envy the sick people. Her favorite hobby is dancing (which she does very well), and like many others she hates homework ! Lee is another one of the girls who have wended their way over to the Junior High through rain or shine every morning. Cheer up, Lee, those days will be gone forever after June. Francis Thornton Nonchalance is “Frannie’s,” middle name, and his good-natured easy man¬ ner has assisted him in gaining many a victory in the field of athletics. His engaging grin has won the heart of more than one of the sighing sex, but only a certain dark-haired lass suc¬ ceeded in making any impression on his stout resistance. Frannie will be more than missed next year when he will pass his brightly-burning athletic torch on to the class of ’39. Lorenna Towns “Townsie,” of the infectious grin is a follower of a combined Comprehen¬ sive Nursing course, for she aspires to dental nursing. This hardy individual enjoys walking and hooking rugs, Heavens knows why! She favors Alodern History and German and is a staunch anti-rainy dayer, and unlike most of us, dislikes gardenias. Why, “Townsie”! Despair ye not, ye low¬ er classmen, “ I ownsie ’ and the grin will be here next year to take a P. G. and keep the spirit of ' 38 alive. Willis Tucker, Jr. Y illis is the cheerful, grinning lad, who is one of the reasons that Miss Batchelder s faith in her Knglish classes is revived. On Wednesday nights he can be found with the gang in a certain store on Mineral Street. Although at this writing Willis is in the hospital recuperating from an ill¬ ness, we hope that he’ll be with us at Graduation. 1 lie whole gang is root¬ ing for you, Willis! Twenty The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY - EIGHT Marion Turner Here is that brilliant little girl who has ended fourth in the class honor roll. Her outside interests are Rain¬ bow and Junior Woman’s Club. The school will not lose her bright smile for another year, as she is planning to take a P. G. course, after which she will join the White Parade. We hope that Marion’s choice of profes¬ sion hasn’t been influenced by those handsome young internes of the movies, but if it has, we hope she will capture one. Earl Van Horn On a hot summer afternoon when you want to cool off in a hurry, just call for “Van”. He is the burly, but handsome (girls, please note) ice man. This gay young blade likes to hunt and fish, and strange to say, study English. If, mind you I say if, you have any old ten dollar bills you don’t want, just give them to Earl. He collects them. (Who doesn’t!) Earl is a Robert Taylor indeed. He aims to be married, and right now I’d say a young miss from Hopkins Street might be the lucky girl. Robert Wakeling “Wakie” or “Curly” is a participant. I might even say star, in our three major sports. Not satisfied with school sports, “Mouse,” as he is sometimes called, has become quite efficient in the arts of diving and swimming. “Wakie” who furnishes transporta¬ tion for his classmates to all points, plans to prep for Dartmouth next year. Virginia Watson “Gin” of the big brown eyes and charming smile has been rewarded after three years of study with the coveted honor of valedictorian. She’s exchange editor for the Pioneer and has been the guiding genius behind the Be acon. Her one and only hobby is Johnny. She enjoys movies, swim¬ ming, baseball, and—believe it or not— homework ! She wants to go to col¬ lege next year and then to become, of all things, a math teacher! More of Mr. Halpin’s good influence and training. SUSSETTE WEIGMANN Sussette, Betty, or “Swazette,” ac¬ cording to Mr. Kibbe, aspires to com¬ mercial art. It won’t be long now before you’ll see all the leading maga¬ zines with her illustrated stories or perhaps her latest puns, (do I hear a groan ?)—that is after Massachusetts School of Art gets through with her. Virginia Wellington Here we have one of those valiant individuals who can withstand the on¬ slaught of Bookkeeping, English, and Public Speaking and emerge trium¬ phant. “Ginny” is a Katherine Hep¬ burn fan and collects pictures of this eccentric star. Next year she plans to attend Burdett Night School the bet¬ ter to become a successful secretary. She has successfully followed the Civic Preparatory Course, but has an aver¬ sion to history. Remember the old guard in Public Speaking II, “Ginny.” Beatrice White An exponent of the secretarial course, is “Bea, a future private sec¬ retary with a liking for shorthand, English and typewriting, and an aver¬ sion to homework. She is also an ardent bicyclist and has a yen for dancing and reading. Donald White “Whitey” is one of those fellows who sleep, eat, and talk nothing but sports. His grit and determination have earned him, despite his diminu¬ tive stature, places on the soccer and baseball first teams. Don is all set for continuing his favorite subject, bookkeeping at Burdett’s. Twenty-one The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT Roy White White the great, one of the finest athletes in the senior class, catcher supreme, one of the mainstays in the line, and all around good fellow, de¬ serves praise indeed for his pet av¬ ersion which is seeing young boys smoking. That class that Coach has in Problems of Democracy holds a strange fascination for a number of boys, for we find that Roy, too, lists it as his favorite. A good job and success is Roy’s formula for making the grade. We know you’ll be right there to catch it, fella, and it won’t be a foul ball, either. Wilfred White Another of our strong silent (?) men! “Wolf” is one of those who claim to like all subjects. His plans for next year are undecided, but he intends to get a good job. Wolf has covered himself with glory on the foot¬ ball field, baseball diamond, and as manager of the basketball team. As with most of us, his chief aversion is homework, but one of his outside in¬ terests is just plain work (Stout fel¬ low!). Among his hobbies are swim¬ ming, football, and baseball. Good luck, Wolf; you’ll get there! Mary Widell Mary, our basketball champ, has re¬ ceived packs of awards in hockey and in basketball. “Butch” wants to be a secretary, but she’ll have to get the bus faster in the morning! This pride and joy of the athletic teams has a weakness for bookkeeping and type,—of all subjects to pick, Mary. She claims that her pet aversion is homework, but personally I think it’s the variations in the pronunciations of her name. Never mind the name, “Keed,” it’s ' that good-natured grin that counts. Dorothy Wilkinson That shy, pretty, and quiet (in chemistry?) girl from North Read¬ ing is known to every one as “Dot.” “Dot says that she likes swimming, skating and ice-boating, but we sup¬ pose that the latter interest varies with the companions. She has con¬ stantly changed her ideas of a life’s work but her current one is to attend Business School and then to be a sec¬ retary—private, Dot . ' In spite of these plans, however, we have very good information that if a young doc¬ tor can|e along—Come, come, boys, where are all our medical aspirants? Dean Winchester Is that a whirlwind or an earth¬ quake? No, it’s just King Eric VIII, himself, romping through the corri¬ dors in search of one of his many friends, who just can’t seem to keep out of his way. Although Dean is one of our mathematical whizzes, he proved himself capable of even greater things by his swell job in the Senior Play. He is due back here next year for a P. G., but until then, our advice to him is “Watch out where ’you drive,” and “Learn to play checkers.” Albert Wright Ah, enter, His Highness, the grin¬ ning “Duke,” one of the banes of the eighth period typing class. This prob¬ lem child was amlong our “football heroes’ and won his title through a good-natured feud with the “Duch¬ ess.” The sleepers we have with us and Bud is a charter member of the “Anti-Early Risers Club.” “Duke” is also one of the few senior boys who can and will dance. Swing it, Bud! Harold Zitzow “Zit” has been with us only a few years, having made a dramatic entry in his sophomore year. Although he is one of the retiring type, he quickly gained the respect of his classmates. We shall long remember “Zit” in the character of Laker, a radical, in the Senior Effort (Play), for he had a loud mud-slinging session with Gen¬ eral Northrup. (Dan Barrett, as you all recall). We almost forgot that it was really “Zit” behind that make¬ up. Our quiet friend has followed the scientific course, and with proper conditions, lie should achieve his am¬ bition which is to become a scientist. Jane Zynsky Jane is that tall, slim, beautifully dressed young lady who aspires to be a teacher. Believe it or not, Jane makes almost all of those clothes which the rest of us envy. Jane shines in Latin, her favorite subject, but she endures many jibes as to being “quite a French-woman.” It is English that Jane hopes to teach, however, and having taken a Comprehensive Course, she plans to complete her education at Boston University, meanwhile keep¬ ing up her outside interests of swim¬ ming and skating. We wish you the best of luck in all you do, Jane. Tiventy-two Frank O’Brien Here we have a future government employee, for “Frankie” intends to take the Civil Service Exam. During his spare time, “Frankie” takes a great delight in examining the intes¬ tines of his horseless carriage. (Do you manage to get whatever you take apart together again, “Frankie”? We hope so.) We are sure you’ll go a long way with your quiet perserver- ance and firm ambition. James Doucette Slide, Jimmie, slide! Yes sir; That’s James; he’s the Bud Merrill of the baseball diamond. A flashy fielding infielder and a definite major league prospect, is our boy “Mava.” He ac¬ quired that nickname of “Mava” be¬ cause the attentions of a young miss of that name were showered upon him. Jimmie claims he doesn’t like it, but we know differently. Walter Doucette They say good things come in small packages; well if they do, whoever gets “Flip” gets more than his money’s worth. If a sunny disposition is rich¬ es, then “Flip” pays more income tax¬ es than J. P. Morgan, for our short Frenchman is Sunny Jim, the original. Say, have you ever seen Walter chas¬ ing flies (I mean the baseball kind)? Boy, this lad is more than good! He’s colossal in a short (I mean small) way. Charles Dunn Charlie, our genial music man, is headed for Burdett’s next year. He has completed the accounting course, his favorite subjects being bookkeep¬ ing and typewriting. Charlie wants to be a proprietor, and between you and me, 1 think he’d made a good one. Cheer up, Charlie, if you do your homework, maybe they’ll let you play the “vie” next year at Burdett’s. Marjorie Foster An athlete, et, what? Basketball in her sophomore year and golf and swimming now, Margie seems to be forging ahead, and that’s the way to be a success, synonomous for her am¬ bition. Her odd but fascinating hobby is that of collecting menus ; that’s when she’s not doling out tickets at the tiieatre or studying her Problems of Democracy. Louise Murphy With a Practical Arts course behind her, “Red” (to her friends) plans to go to Framingham Normal to study to be a Dietician. “Red” enjoys swim¬ ming, roller skating, and English. Just a little advice from a fellowmate, “Red” ! Don’t be too much the dieti¬ cian after swimming, because you know how it is when you come out of the water; you’re hungry enough to eat a bear, and a bear might not be just the right thing for the invalids. That flashing Colgate smile will surely bring you a job. Smile even if you’re blue, and the whole world will smile with you. Myles O’Donnell No. fellows, it’s not a slow motion actor on vacation. It’s “Mike.” Myles is no speed demon but give him time and a Ford, and watch out. Some day the First National Stores will be his personal property; that is, if the Navy doesn’t get him first. “Mike” drives himself, and like all male drivers, thinks wome ' n drivers ought to be ruled off the road. I was going to say good luck, Myles, but a fellow like you will have it anyway. Robert Pratt This is the gentleman who daily drove J. F. to distraction in the 8th period type. We presume that Bob has a heavy life insurance policy, for he plans to enter the daring profes¬ sion of a car-tester. Hockey, tennis, and swimming keep this child amused, when lie is not a-pumping gas at “Hookie’s” Garage. Pratt is one of the few who know what he wants to do next year—work; diligence, thy name is Robert. Russell Whitford One can still take time to wonder at those gentlemen of leisure who lead a light existence, never accomplish much, and yet get what they want with a minimum amount of exertion. If “Whit” only had a million dollars, he’d be quite popular on Park Avenue. Actually, however, “Russ” is saving up his energy for a very serious bending of his abilities to electrical engineer¬ ing. We hope he doesn’t get his wires crossed. READING HIGH SCHOOL Tiventy-three The second half year has proved even more “chock full” of work and activities than the fall term. Our as¬ semblies have been particularly numerous, especially th ose dealing with educational subjects and good enter¬ tainment. In fact, we owe a debt of thanks to Mr. Suss- mann and the various school organiza tions for their un¬ tiring efforts along this line. To head the list of some of our outstanding assem¬ blies we had two excellent plays, “The Red Dress” and “The Beau of Bath,” produced by Mrs. Wiens ' advanced public speaking class the last day before the Christmas holidays. The actors did a fine piece of work reflecting credit both on themselves and their most capable coach. January 7, 1938 This day’s assembly was one of most unusual inter¬ est, for we received a visit from an “old grad” of R. H. S., Ronald Mansfield, who is now a popular radio singer. Mr. Mansfield ' s songs included “Rosalie,” “Sweet is the Word for You. “Rose Marie,” and several others, all of which made a great hit with the student body. Also on the program were several of our own stars from the Girls ' Glee Club; namely, Vivian Hook, Evelyn Comey, Alma Mansfield, and Virginia Perkins, accompanied by Marjory Jewett, Dorothy Harrow, and Ronald Mans¬ field. Last but not least was Dan Barrett with his “bull fiddle.” January 14, 1938 That Community Fund Drive is certainly a worthy enterprise, which deserves all kinds of support. The moving picture shown here fully confirmed this opinion by illustrating the various kinds of relief work carried on by this organization which eases so much of the suf¬ fering experienced by the needy and unemployed. February 14, 1938 We were extremely fortunate in having Mr. Cowles of the Army and Navy Y. M. C. A. speak to us on the present war in China. Mr. Cowles, who has recently been in China, gave us an intimate picture of the war- wrecked provinces, and expressed his opinion that the Lnited States would be involved sooner or later. February 18, 1938 I his year’s assembly commemorating Washington’s birthday was opened by Mr. Sussmann who spoke to us on the significance of the day. Next on the program was Doris Steele with an account of the life of Susan B. Anthony, the great woman social reformer who was the champion of woman suffrage. Natalie Kevin closed the program with some interesting and less-known points on Washington’s life. March 4, 1938 The New England Coke Company by means of mov¬ ing pictures demonstrated to us the many complicated steps in the manufacturing of coke. March 25, 1938 Mr. Willard of the Bentley School of Accounting was present at a general assembly to outline for us the advantages of accounting as a profession. The Girls’ Glee Club under the direction of Mr. Peck presented sev¬ eral selections among which were “The Moon and I” from “The Mikado sung by Vivian Hook, and “Three Little Maids from School, sung by Vivian Hook, Evelyn Comey, and Alma Mansfield. March 28, 1938 Business again, and this time it was moving pictures on the career of a private secretary and, again, the ad¬ vantages of accounting sponsored by The Fisher Business School. It seems as if this is the only career for wide¬ awake young people. March 30, 1938 More movies on the manufacture of Bird’s Eye Frosted Foods. Now we know all about that amazing new food process. April 14, 1938 Dean Morrison Smith of Bordentown Military Academy paid the school his usual annual visit with a fresh batch of jokes and a lot of good common sense. He impressed upon us the importance of being able to search out the value in anything really worthwhile, no matter how unattractive it might appear on the surface. April 25, 1938 Mr. Paul R. Elliot, who has shown us travel pic¬ tures during previous years, returned with movies on Japan and the Coronation pictures in technicolor. While the reel on Japan was interesting, the shots of the Coro¬ nation were, of course, the main feature. Mr. Elliot who was there in person with his camera obtained some excellent shots of the procession, the crowds, and som • fair close ups of the King and Queen. Tuenty-four The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight To round out the events of the year the High School on June 15th and 16th is putting on an historical play to celebrate the one hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. A distinguished cast, picked from all three classes, under the capable direc¬ tion of Miss Devaney and Mr. Dixon is rehearsing in¬ dustriously almost every night after school. From what we hear the play is going to be splendid, so let’s all turn out and pack the house. Just now the seniors, recalling the old saying that the school days are the happiest period of one’s life, are making the most of the few now remaining to them. We are really mournful about our coming departure, but knowing the Junior and Sophomore classes, we have no fears for the future of Reading High School. Malcolm McGann 38 Sophomore Commentary Two hundred and two strong, the Sophomores have swung merrily but busily along through their first year in high school. In the spring of 1938 capable class officers were chosen: Jeanette Davis, president; Alice Goodwin, vice president; Richard Fellows, treasurer; and Barbara Gonnam, secretary. Although the class as a whole was inactive, as usual, during its first year, it was represented individually by a number of contribut¬ ing Sophomores in sports, public speaking, dramatics, music, and the Pioneer. Our only formally sponsored activity was the spring dance, which was a surprisingly great success. The dance was held on May 6 in the Senior High School Hall and was attended by ninety merry couples. The decorations were carried out in the spring fashion with mainly huge apple blossoms and other paper flowers in pastel colors. The decoration committee believed that their flowers were appreciated, for there wasn’t one left to pick up the following day. Ted Roderique and his orchestra from Lynn kept the feet of the dancers going until eleven forty-five when everyone reluctantly, we think, left for home. Punch, ice cream, and cake were served in the lunchroom during intermission. Our pat¬ rons and patronesses were Mrs. Wendall Dav is, Mrs. Horace Fellows, Miss Helene Ernst and Mr. Joseph Fitzgerald. From the class officers many thanks go to Miss Simon, our class advisor, whose advice and co-operation succeeded in getting the class on its feet this year. We also thank her for her kind interest and help in plan¬ ning and carrying out the Sophomore Hop. To the various teachers of the Sophomore Class, we wish to extend our thanks for a most pleasant and profitable year. Barbara Gonnam ’40 Junior Year This year, as is the general rule, the Junior Class functioned mostly on the social side. Under the follow¬ ing class officers, Jimmy Heselton, president; Dick Knud- son, vice president; Bette Merrill, secretary; and Mar¬ jorie Crosby, treasurer, arrangements were made for the annual Junior Prom. Held before the Xmas vaca¬ tion in the High School Hall, and amidst original decora¬ tions in the usual Xmas colors of red and green, the Prom was a great success—socially and financially. Ned Marshall and his Colony Club Orchestra, known to most Readingit es, provided excellent and continuous dance music, not to forget spectacular entertainment during in¬ termission. Our patronesses were Mrs. Heselton, Mrs. Knudson, Mrs. Merrill, Mrs. Connelly, and Miss Simon. Without the co-operation of various committees and the chairman-—-Jimmy Heselton, orchestra; Bette Merrill, decorations; Polly Stembridge, refreshments, and a most successful ticket committee presided over by Ruth Pol- litz, the Prom would not have been up to the usual high class standards. It has been rumored that the class of 39 has the reputation of putting on the best dances; we are confi¬ dent that this year’s Junior-Senior Reception will stamp out these rumors, and establish them as a basic fact! We are trying to bring Ned Marshall back to play for us, as popular demand is great. Thanks to an increased treasury we are sure of the success of the reception, and know that the nautical decorations, already in pro¬ gress, plus the possibility of a return engagement by Ned Marshall, will make the old hall shine on the eve of June the sixth. As a class we wish to express our thanks to Mr. Hal- pin, our class advisor, to the faculty, and to all those who have made this year one to be remembered by the faculty and students alike. Bette Merrill ’39 Hi-Y Under the capable advisory leadership of Mr. Pope, Newell Morton, and Clarence Gay, Hi-Y closes its sixth year at Reading High. The officers, Orville Poland, presi¬ dent; John Sawyer, vice-president; Robert Gray, secre¬ tary; John Colley, treasurer have led the members through an interesting and instructive group of meetings. Mr. Dixon started the season of excellent programs with a lecture upon American leadership. Ed. Kevorkian, outstanding in football as a member of the “iron men at Brown, spoke at “Football Night,’ and at a following meeting Mr. Orville Poland led a discussion on liberty. The succeeding talks in December were based on foreign countries; Mr. Bishop spoke concerning Guatemala with pictures and native costumes as illustrations; Mr. Bur¬ ton, recently returned from China after six years there, T wenty-five The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight HI-Y First row: E. Batchelder, D. Miller, R. Pomeroy, J. Colley, O. Poland, J. Sawyer, R. Gray, N. Burbank, B. Howe, E- Oliver Second row: R. Hutchinson, A. Boyd, F. Davis, E. Chisholm, R. Stratton, C. Gilman, R. Lawler, J. Quinlan, W. Haselton, W. Hill, R. King Third row: R. Lyons, N. McKenzie, A. Beaman, C. Pinkham, R. Smith, K. Hicks, W. Richmond, H. Richmond, R. Childs, J. Haselton, W. Jaques. presented a very vivid word picture of conditions that exist in China and offered his views and predictions on the Sino-Japanese condition. Mr. Howard turned our minds to our own immediate vicinity with pictures of a very instructive nature on his trips back to nature in Maine and other surrounding nature wilds. Dr. Wake- ling spoke on the health which is necessary to perform the antics pictured in the films shown on “Ski Night. “College Night brought past members of Reading High hack to “alma mater” to present their college to pros¬ pective college students. Recently joining the National Hi-Y Fellowship gives Reading eligibility to send a candidate to Berea, Ken¬ tucky in June to a Hi-Y congress, which will bring mem¬ bers from 5,000 schools together. In 1938-1939 the officers will be Richard Stratton, president; James Haselton, vice-president; Carl Pink- ham, secretary; Frank Weeks, treasurer. Secretary — Robert Gray ’38 $— - $ IN APPRECIATION The editor and the senior members of the Pioneer Staff wish to express their appreciation to the members of the sophomore and junior classes who contributed so generously and ably to our literary number at Christmas. We are convinced that next year you will carry on the work of the Pioneer capably and effectively and that in so doing you will achieve greater glory in journalism for Reading High. More power and success to the Pioneer, its new editor-in-chief and its staff! Marjorie Morss ’38 - - - - - -- —■ — —— Twenty-six The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight SENIOR PLAY Left to Right: Arthur Rees, Benjamin Howe, George Madden. Jeanette Forbes, Herbert Carter, Harold Zitzow, Malcolm McGann, Dean Winchester, Ralph Pomeroy, Daniel Barrett, Orville Poland, Allan Boyd, Peter Curl, Mary Proncko, Marjorie Rollins, Virginia Wellington On Friday evening, March 18 at Shepardson Hall, Robert E. Sherwood s comedy “The Queen s Husband” was presented to an appreciative audience by the Senior Class of the Reading High School. The play concerns a king with a domineering wife, a beautiful daughter, and a young secretary. The action involves the queen’s efforts to marry her daughter to a prince, thus gaining a great diplomatic victory as well as assuring herself of social prestige. Possessing an opinion of her own, however, the princess is determined to marry the young secretary whom she loves, since to her the prince is a boorish sort of fellow completely lacking the qualities she desires in a husband. The king, as you may imagine, finds himself confronted with the necessity of making a decision as to whether or not he will strive to bring about a marriage between his daughter and the prince, crushing the princess’s young life, but at the same time appeasing his shrewish queen, or whether he will aid his young secretary to elope with the princess thus further jeopardizing his home life and peace of mind because of the haggling by the queen which is sure to follow such action. Along with this puzzling problem, the king realizes that his cabinet is controlling his kingdom while he is merely acting as a figurehead. Suddenly changing from a mild, meek being to a stirring and stern ruler, His Majesty surprises the court by dismissing his cabinet to form a new one and horrors ' -—even speaking a bit harshly to Her Majesty! The setting of the play is in the palace of King Eric VIII and Queen Martha, the rulers of a mythical kingdom. A brilliant regal and colorful stage, which was truly “a work of art,” brought out the characters to better advantage. In the play attention is centered primarily upon the king, a meek, mild little chap, splendidly characterized by Dean Winchester who is very much married to Queen Martha, ably portrayed by Marjorie Rollins as a sweep¬ ing, domineering figure. Their beautiful daughter, Prin¬ cess Anne (Jeanette Forbes) whose dark beauty added that certain sparkle to the performance, is in love with the king’s secretary, Granton (George Madden) who was quiet and serious but very engaging; her mother, how¬ ever, desires that she marry William I Ben Howe), the smug, self-satisfied though undeniably handsome Prince of Greek, in the queen’s eyes the perfect specimen of a future son-in-law. In control of the court is General Northrup (Daniel Barrett) a loud, blustering character closely associated with Lord Birten (played by Peter Curl ) who fairly bursts with his own importance and prestige (even to the extent of changing his voice). He continually seeks to flatter Queen Martha, assuring her that her actions are correct in order that she will assist him and his colleagues in their diplomatic ventures. These two allies are greatly opposed to the radical, Dr. Fell- man (whom we recognize as Orville Poland despite the heavy growth behind which he attempted to hide) whose performance was exceedingly fine and clear, and Harold Zitzow who was so interpretative that he was not behind in his conception of an anarchist. Malcolm McGann, taking the part of the conventional type butler, gave an T uenty-seven The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT individual character performance which proved to be of unusual interest. 11 might say here that Peter Curl and Malcolm McCann especially won the hearts of the young folk at the Thursday afternoon performance and afforded them much amusement). Marjorie, attended by the ladies-in-waiting Virginia Wellington and Mary Proncko, who though rather subdued and anxious were admirable, was the ideal type for her part and did ex¬ ceedingly well. Other parts were taken by Allen Boyd a natty page for King Eric, Arthur Rees, the alert, or¬ derly Major Blent, Ralph Pomeroy, whose size provided much amusement, and Herbert Carter who in accordance with our by-word “The show 7 must go on!” stepped into the part of Granton during rehearsals, because of George Madden s absence, and then after his long labors, un¬ selfishly gave up the part to George on his return. Special credit is due Mrs. Weins (coach and en¬ thusiast) whose graciousness and good humor coupled with her tireless effort which governed the rehearsals and final excellent performance added new laurels to her already well-known reputation for dramatic successes. Too much cannot be said for the work of that un¬ seen, unsung group who were responsible for the back- stage work, particularly in the second act where they made the most of their opportunities. They brought out the grim suggestion of war w-ith sound effects consisting of bombardments, machine guns, naval artillery, and with proper flashes further promoted the idea of warfare. These sound effects had to be timed to the second to pre¬ vent the players’ lines from being drowned out, and the electricans were kept busy by having to make their lighting effects coincide with the sound. Alertness, sharpness, and preciseness were the requirements ful¬ filled by such workers as John Colley, John Sawyer, Arthur Moulton, Arthur Beaman, and Edson King. The smoothness with which they accomplished their task, with the help of supporting committees, in no small measure contributed to a delightful evening for all who attended. Mary Proncko ’38 AFTER SCHOOL WHAT? Continued from page 3 start now to think about your future? Then, when the thrill of walking across a stage before a crowd of happy parents and friends becomes a reality, you’ll not stand undecided and uncertain with the constant thought run¬ ning through your mind, “Now what?” Ruth Pollitz ’39 HUMOR AN ORCHID To the daring soul who comes to school after an absence without a ' note’ stating the exact reason for his absence. 1 o the fortunate one who is able to avoid the A. A. Rep¬ resentative selling tickets, collecting Pioneer money, etc. To the Senior who is lucky ' enough to have sufficient number of pictures to give out to classmates. To the Sophomore who regards a Senior as a Superior. To a student who is so greatly absorbed in his work that he doesn’t hear the period bell! Marjorie Morss ’38 QUERY If Marie should Reed, could Dannie Barrett? If Robert should Clinch, would Peter Curl? If Jimmy should Doucette, would Thomas Skidmore? If John Sawyer, would Marion Turner? If Clarence should Baker would Charley by Dunn? If Donald is White, can Annette be Brown? Orville Poland ’38 JOKES Donald Miller: “Why are you eating with vour knife?” 6 7 Robert Wakeling: “My fork leaks.” Mr. Pope: “Does the moon affect the tide?” Robert Clinch: “No, only the untied.” Brendon Hoyt: My son will not be able to come to school this afternoon; he has a cold.” Mr. Sussmann: Very well, Sir. Who is speak¬ ing?” Brendon Hoyt: “My father, Sir.” Jeannette: (Said on Memorial Day) “Where’s Priscilla?” Mrs. Johnson: “She’s upstairs waving her hair.” Jeannette: “Good heavens! Hasn’t she got a flag?” Dickie Smith: I’d move heaven and earth to be able to play a good game of golf.” Prof, at Meadow: Well, you’ve only heaven to tackle now.” Twenty-eight This year has been the busiest year the music de¬ partment has had in eons. Constantly on the go between the High School and Junior High, Mr. Peck has spent most of his waking hours trying to make the young people of Reading a little more music conscious. First, there was the High School Band which has graced the bleachers at our football games. Remember how we used to help keep time by stamping our feet on the bleachers, or was that our only reason? Mentioning the hand, we can’t forget our good natured drum major Helen “Moe Connolly or our witty band leader, John Hilchey, Esq. The manoeuvers of the band at the Read- ing-Wakefield game were especially good. Helen in her flashy uniform showed the Wakefielders that Reading could have a good band in spite of its size. Continuing to present our list, we go to the more serious part of the music department. The high school orchestra, which played at our different assemblies lend¬ ing a more dignified aspect to our Alma Mater when guests were present, will be remembered for its splendid performance at the Senior Play. The orchestra is cer¬ tainly proud of Dan Barrett, who walked off with top honors at the festival in New London, and of Elaine Brown who made her debut with the last Civic Symphony Orchestra concert playing a violin concerto. Dan Bar¬ rett with his finished touch on the string-bass has played with the Civic Orchestra during its last few perform¬ ances. GIRLS’ GLEE CLUB First Row: Priscilla Mathieson, Mary Story. Hazel Terhune, Madeline Chisholm, Norma Kendall, Barbara Kimball, Barbara Griffith, Betty Carter, Ruth Parry, Lillian Ivester, Marjorie Rollins Second row: Louise Patterson, Doris Peterson, Barbara Tasney, Mary Zitzow, Rita roussant, Elaine Brown, Betty Beaudry, Gertrude Lorgeree, Kathryn Conron, Marjorie Jewett, Doris Boyce, Mildred Lorgeree Florence Sil fridge Third row: Dorothy Ruderman, Evelyn Comey, Dorothy Harrow, Alma Mansfield, Mary Maling, Barbara Cleveland, Elinor Jayne, May Melanson, Margit Carassi, Kathleen Browne, Elinor Pestana, Marion Gray, Kay VVitham Fourth row: Gladys White, Mary Norton, Janet Lawson, Vivian Hook, Marian Goodrich, Marilyn Vaughn, Marian Henderson, Olive Porter, Irene Sztucinski T wenty-nine The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight A startling innovation to our high school’s music department was the Boys Glee Club, which, sad to say, soon gave way to the Thursday morning mixed chorus. Many a time we would stop for a minute to listen to the hoys lifting their voices in sweet ecstasy. They really did enjoy it. At the time of writing the mixed chorus’s burning ambition is to give an operetta at assembly on May 19. The group which meets on Thursday mornings is made up of the best members of the Boys Glee Club and Girls’ Glee Club. Need we mention the Wednesday morning choruses in which the Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors vied with each other to see who could sing loudest? For a long time to come we will remember the “dear old schooldays” and our Wednesday mornings when we sang such old- time favorites as “Tavern in the Town,” “My Darling Clementine, and “Home on the Range.” Even though we did miss a study period, no one regretted it, for the fun we had more than made up for the worrying done later. Last, but certainly not least, we mention the Girls’ Glee Club, the apple of Mr. Peck’s eye. New London will always be fondly remembered by the girls, especi¬ ally the dance held in honor of those who attended that festival. The purpose of the New London Festival was to form one huge chorus and orchestra to give a series of concerts. The girls tell us that the boys at the Coast Guard Academy beat Reading boys by a mile. Shall you stand for that, boys? Because of the lowness of funds the Glee Club was not able to attend the Massachusetts Festival at Fall River in a body. A few of the girls, however, went to Fall River with Mr. Peck in order to hear other glee clubs sing. At the time of writing, the Glee Club is plan¬ ning to attend the New England Festival to be held in Burlington, Vermont and the National Festival in Al¬ bany, New ork. Although the Glee Club itself was not as busy this year as in past years, it gave several successful concerts, the best of which was the one given with the Medford High School Band. From the Glee Club emerged, to the surprise and pleasure of the high school, several promising young soloists: Alma Mans¬ field, Vivian Hook, Evelyn Comey, Virgina Perkins, and Mary Maling, who were featured at our assemblies in¬ dividually and in duets and a quartette. Hats off to Mr. Peck, a grand leader, of whom a little story is told. Once Mr. Peck, whose habit is to raise violently his arms to give us the signal for begin¬ ning, gave us the cue with such vigor that he pulled him¬ self completely out of his shoes. Mr. Peck has indeed worked hard to give the Glee Club an almost profes¬ sional touch, and 1 am sure we all appreciate him! Irene Sztucinski ’39 HUMOR archie the cockroach goes to a party (with apologies to Don Marquis) well boss i got a little mixed up the other night and when i woke up after a good sleep i found i was in a school in reading i didnt know it till i heard some men talking well says the curly haired guy tonites the senior banquet well boss you know me im curious so i hung around all day dodging peoples feet and having a bad time generally there was a lot of commotion going on but not much to eat i had to subsist on half a piece of paper and some paste all day the paste was stale too but at last everyone left so i came out and crawled up some stairs it was hard work so by the time i finally got to where the eats were people were coming in again so i had to hide but i got hungrier and hungrier so i came out at last but i was still a long way from food i got out of this by crawling up a girls leg i was scared but she thought i was her dress so i was o k when i got up on the table no one noticed me till i had started eating then a girl screamed and there was a lot of commotion i was starting to get out of there quick but a boy picked up the plate and threw me in the garbage pail hoping you are the same archie. Sussette Weigmann ’38 CINEMA QUIPS “Man Proof” “Merrily We Live” “Souls at Sea” “1 Met My Love Again” “The Invisible Man” “Doctor Rhythm” 1 he Perfect Specimen” “Living on Love” “Women Are Like That” “A Yank at Oxford” “Dangerous to Know” “Fit for a King” “Ali Baba Goes to Town” “You’re a Sweetheart” “Start Cheering” “They Won’t Forget” “Nat” Kevin (There’s safety in numbers!) Seniors Sophomores During study period Dickie” Smith Mr. Peck Donald Miller Jeanette and Frannie Girls ' Glee Club Peter Curl “Pinkie” Ivester Barbara Kimball Robert Clinch Barbara Leach On June 22 The Faculty Norma Kendall ’38 Thirty BASKETBALL If we look far back into the past, we recall to our vision the “Flying Quintuplets,” but they were but a comforting memory when the past basketball season rolled around. Coach Althoff was faced with the difficult problem of moulding a classy hoop team from unripened fruit. With only two experienced players, Coach de¬ veloped a team which played classy basketball all season although it won only four games. Now, let us look ahead, for the “38 season is now also a memory. We have five capable sophomores who are rapidly becoming acquainted with the game. Who knows what they may bring forth? We should not forget that the memorable five, “The Flying Quintuplets,” were at one time sopho¬ mores. In the season’s opener the Alumni trounced our team, which at times was very ragged, to the strains of 44 to 10. Did somebody say the Alumni was aging, or was it just a rumor? In the next game, “The Minute Men” were right on the green and proved to be too much for Reading, for they beat us by the score of 28 to 13 and advanced one notch up the ladder leading to the Middlesex League wine cup. Concord, a newcomer to the Middlesex wars, stamp¬ ed on our toes. That hurt. Ouch. Score 39 to 11. We fell at the bridge. Mr. Donahue—Oh, pardon me—I mean Belmont gave Reading its worst licking of the season, although “Wes Foote collected ten hard-earned points. It seems incidentally that eight games later “Red” Donahue and “Wes practiced facial exercises for forty minutes. The score. Shall I mention it? Belmont 57; Reading 28. Our next engagement took place in a gym where at one time one point spelled the fate of “The Flying Quints”; namely Watertown. A vision 12 to 11! The Reading hoys although much improved in their style of play lost at the rate of 30 to 13. At this point in the season, five players actually knew what a basketball looked like, and Stoneham, no less, suffered. Yes, Reading did click. This victory gave the white-shirts much needed confidence. The score, Reading 18; Stoneham 12. Although Reading did not win the following five encounters, the scores showed a decided improvement in the play of our team. Wakefield, in its first invasion, beat us only by seven points, but as we all recall, one point wins a basketball game. Score 38 to 31. Punchard! The word seems familiar—at least to Ed King and the football squad. Well, as you prob¬ ably know, they also sport a basketball team too. Pun¬ chard revenged its defeat or, shall I say, slaughter by “The Flying Quints” to the tune of 25 to 21. Winchester, Lexington and Concord repeated vic¬ tories with their classy fives by scores of 27 to 16, 40 to 29, and 40 to 36 respectively. Notice—the scores were not lopsided. Belmont and “er” Mr. Donahue came to Reading just to walk away with a victory it seemed, but as we all remember, raspberries were sold that night. Donahue didn’t fit. He just couldn’t hit the strings while A1 Dins- more brushed them frequently with hair raising shoots. Reading finally was well organized and looked like a basketball five. The score, Reading 28; Belmont 18. We followed by taking Watertown 24 to 21, and then floored our neighbor, Stoneham, again 34 to 15. Wakefield, in their next battle with us on the “hoop” courts, squeezed out a 26 to 25 win, while in the final contest of the season, Winchester trounced us again 29 to 15. During the season our team scored 353 points, “Wes” Foote making 121 points, and our opponents scored 490. The second team ended the season with nine victories and seven losses which placed it in a tie for second place honors in the second team loop. They scored a total of 400 points to their opponents’ 387 points. At the end of the season Donald White, Richard Smith, and Lawrence Enos (manager) received letters and the following men received stars: Captain Francis Thornton, Albert Wright, Wesley Foote, Brendon Hoyt, Robert Wakeling, Russell Galvin, Albert Dinsmore, Wil¬ fred White, manager. The remainder of the squad included Leonard Wright, Charles Dacey, Richard Lawler, Chuck Taylor, Dick Merritt, Wallace Haselton, John Quinlan, Fred Da¬ cey, John Hyronosky, Alfred Burbine, and Herbert White. John Sawyer, ’38 Thirty-one a First row: D. White, A. Dinsmore, R. Wakeling, B. Hoyt, R. Galvin, R. Smith, L. Enos (manager). Second row: R. Amback, A. Sarcone, L. Wright, J. Hrynowsky, J. Quinlan, A. Burbine, W. Haselton J. Zynsky, P. Althoff (coach) Third row: W. Hill, R. Lawlor, C. Dacey, W. Hilton, W. Connelly, C. Taylor, K. Law. BASKETBALL — 1938 BASKETBALL LOCKER ROOM CHATTER The most talked of subject was, “When are we go¬ ing to win a game?” The “Mudville Trio”, “Wes” Foote, “Don” White, and “Brendy” Hoyt, was the cause of the sudden death of “Bei Mir Bist Du Schon.” There was rarely a game that Dick Smith stayed in the whole time; you know the rule, “four fouls and you are put out of the game.” Wes and Fran could always be found waiting outside Masonic Hall, on the Friday nights that there was Rainbow. The rest of the squad was aspired by “avis”-itor from the J. H. S. Ihe Ritz Brothers” have nothing on Hoyt and White, as we found out when we traveled to our out- of-town games. Ihe hist team finally was treated to oranges be¬ tween the halfs after they w T on a game, but this was after the second team had its pick. We wonder how 7 the first Concord game would have ended if the first team hadn’t been watching. hus Calvin showed the giants from the opposing tt ams that one didn t need to be tall to be good; he sure did haunt them. Smitty s birthday cake tasted swell after the Win¬ chester game! “ I use” Enos, our very efficient manager, sure could keep score. In one game he had a player, one of his own at that, put out of the game on three fouls. Limit is usually four. The coach sure gave him (not the player) the Tuse. A1 “S. A.” Dinsmore’s unerring aim scored many points for R. H. S. A lot of the boys won Scholarships to “Mudville Tech.” Wes’ Foote tied up and clinched more than one game with his trick shots. Maybe he was encouraged by Irene. Robert Wakeling, ’38 Brendon Hoyt, ’38 BASEBALL I his season, Coach Batchelder had to start from scratch. He had only three regulars back from last year s team and w r as faced with the task of weeding a team from a group of green, untried aspirants. When ompleted, it boiled dow T n to about fifteen men, alter¬ nating various positions. boy Iwo Bug W bite was our catcher and home run hitter. Roy usually batted fourth (cleanup) and was the spark of the team. Whenever anything went amiss out on the diamond, I wo Bug could always be found, in his own little way, urging the boys to try a Thirty-two The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight little harder. He was our Co-Captain along with “Bren- dy” Hoyt, whom we w ill elaborate upon next. “Brendy” w r as late in starting the season, because of an operation on his leg; however, he came back in time to pitch the opening league game. “Brendy’ ' as usual was the mainstay of the scanty pitching staff. He pitched his best game of the season against Concord, setting them back with 5 hits and 2 runs. If we had more pitchers of his ability, we would be sitting on top of the league. James “Jim” Doucette played first base and usually batted 3rd. “Jim” is a left-handed hitter and really is a hitter. Jim played a snappy game down around first and was a vital cog in Coach’s machine. On second we had Irving “Hokie ' Holcomb, a sophomore. “Hokie” alternated both shortstop and sec¬ ond and batted both in 2nd and 8th position. Irving was a good hunter and was pretty sure of reaching first base. With two years more in high school, “Hokie” should prove his “mettle”. Frank Weeks, fresh from Wakefield, w r as presented with the “hot corner” position. Down at third base, “Weeksie” made many brilliant stops, and his strong arm threw many a man out at first base. “Frankie” was handy with the “willow and could also be used at shortstop. Wakefield’s loss proved to be our gain. Donald “Don White was assigned to shortstop and was credited with many assists. “Don” also played the outfield and batted 2nd or 8th. “Whitie” usually came up neatly with the ball and gunned it either to “Jim or, on the double play ball, would flip it to “Hokie” on second. In left field, when not pitching, Albert “S. A.” Dinsmore could be found. “Al” was always to be counted on to give a good performance in “the gar¬ den and one just as good if not better on the mound. Walter “Flip, Dominick Doucette, was situated in center field. “Flip , incidentally, garnered 3 hits for 3 times, at bat from the invincible McHugh of Water- town. We vote “Dominick” as a member of the “all- elastic team. Robert “Curl)” Wakeling was our right-fielder. Called curly because his hair is straight, “Bob” drove in more than one winning run with his “34”. Just nine men don ' t make a ball team. We can’t forget our substitutes and pinch-hitters. Wilfred “Wolf” White played shortstop, second base and outfield. Earl “Budd Madden and Frank Dinsmore served as relief pitchers. John Hyronosky filled in most any place, along with Dick Merritt and Dick Lawlor. George Madden did a lot of filling in, in the outfield. A summary of the season follows: April 15 Reading 1 At Watertown Opponents 11 20 15 Stoneham 14 26 6 Concord 2 29 0 Watertown 3 May 2 1 At Winchester 7 4 11 Maynard 13 9 1 Lexington 4 11 2 Belmont 9 13 7 At Stoneham 3 16 14 Wakefield 18 18 2 At Concord 1 20 1 At Wakefield 9 24 3 At Winchester 2 27 June 1 3 At Lexington At Maynard At Belmont Brendon Hoyt, ’38 George Madden, ’38 GOLF Although this year’s golf team started off to a bad beginning by dropping two successive matches to Wakefield and Melrose, it regained its lost prestige by decisively whipping Malden and Danvers. At the time of this writing it appears that Melrose has the league championship, but the boys here at Reading are going to provide the other teams with a hot battle for the second spot. With two sophomores, Bronk and Sar- cone playing consistently good golf to boost the second and third teams respectively, we are in hopes that the team will gain momentum as it progresses. Dick Cleve¬ land, Dick Smith, Bob Clinch, and Johnny Donovan, last year’s letter men, are holding up last year’s stand¬ ards to the best of their abilities. Arthur Hopkins and “Pinky” Higgins are our very valuable subs, or per¬ haps better they are our alternates, because they are giving the boys a very close race for spots on the team. Playing on Mondays and Thursdays through the first of June, we find the remaining matches at home which is a decided advantage to several of our players, who are junior-members at Meadow Brook. In addition to the valuable guidance of Mr. Al- thoff, we are proud to present this year our new assist¬ ant coach in charge of transportation, Mr. Seamans. Mr. Seamans seems to have a lucky charm which brought us victory at Danvers. As always we would like to thank the Meadow Brook Green’s Committee for the generous way in which they offered us the use of this fine course. Robert Clinch, ’38. Thirty-three The Pioneer Nineteen TIIIRTY-EIGHT BASEBALL — 1938 1 First row: Coach Batchelder, Robert Wakeling, Wilfred White, Richard Merritt, Irving Holcomb, Donald White, Brendon Hoyt, Roy White, John Hryonowsky, George Madden Second row: James Shaw, James Doucette, Frank Weeks, Walter Doucette, Warren Hill, Albert Dinsmore, John Quinlan, Wallace Heselton, Richard Lawler, Sherman Poland, Frank Dinsmore FOOTBALL 1937 First row: R. King, W. Perkins, J. Quinlan, A. Leman, R. Wright, F. Costello, R. Merrill, H. White, C. Nickerson, R. Eawlor, W. Doucette Second row: Coach Batchelder, II. Stark, A. Beaudoin, R. Merrill, W. White, G. Powell, K. King, J. hisenhaure, h,. an Horn, R, hite, R. Wakeling, N. Burbank, J. Hyronosky, F. Thornton, Asst, Coach Maynard I bird row: I,. Enos, S. Watkins, J. Donovan, R. Keating, J. Connolly, W. Foote. C. Warren, R. Pomeroy, R. Gray, W. Shannon, R. Waugh, R. Stratton, I„ Chisholm, F. McQuestion, A. II. Richardson, Asst.—J. Eawlor D. Miller. Dinsmore, Thirty-four The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY-EIGHT First row: Barbara Gonnam, Dorothy MacMann, Mary Norton, Elizabeth Jewell, Mava Classen, Irene Goodwin, Alyce Gonnam, Margaret Sullivan, May Melanson, Edith Olson, Marjorie Wentworth Second row: Jeanette Davis, Barbara Currie, Dorothy Barstow, Muriel Arthur, Marjorie Moses, Barbara Kimball, Claire Delong, Betty Kimball, Alice Goodwin, Kay Witham, Dorothy Ruderman, Theo Farr Third row: Kathryn Conron, Betty Beaudry, Margit Courassi, Elinor Pestana, Betty Miller, Betty White, Betsy Foxcroft, Betty Dalton, Marjorie Crosby, Kathleen Brown TENNIS On April 28, the 1938 Reading High Swing Club had its first session under the direction of Coach Al- thoff. The prospective candidates arrived in ful l array in order to display their knowledge of the tennis art. Since last year ' s team was undefeated, the coach is eagerly looking over the 38 material, for he is deter¬ mined to uphold our honor. All in all, there are four¬ teen candidates: Richard Lyons, John Sawyer, George Hodgkins, Richard Ruggles, Ralph Meuse and Dean Winchester of the senior class; Edward Greenlaw, the lone junior member, and Clarke Nyman, Rae Amback, Chester Gunn, Richard Lewis, Walter Hilton, Norman Putnam, and Robert Sullivan, futurities of the Sopho¬ more Class. This group sizes up very well, and it should be a wining combination. In accordance with schedule, the R. H. S. team won a scorching victory over the Concord High swing¬ ers on May 9 by the close score of 3 to 2. The Reading team really won this match for spite because our No. 1 man. Richard Lyons, was laid up with the mumps. We had to prove to Coach Althoff that our team is ex¬ ceptionally strong. The second scheduled match against Danvers was called off because of rain. Luck was against us this day, for we were paving our way to our second victory for Reading High. However, Reading will try to win back its point on May 17 against this same team. One important fact which applies to just a selected few is Reading’s entrance into the Belmont Inter-Class Championships. The candidates will battle it out to see who will be eligible for this honor. The schedule is as follows: Reading Opponent May 9 Reading at Concord 3 2 May 10 Danvers at Reading 3 2 May 20 Reading at Stoneham 5 0 May 24 Reading at Danvers 3 2 May 27 Concord at Reading May 31 Stoneham at Reading June 1-11 Belmont Inter-Class Championships George Hodgkins, ’38 Thirty-five The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight GIRLS’ ATHLETICS BASKETBALL As the winter season rolled around once more, our thoughts again turned to basketball. With balls flying and girls flashing about, we started the season dynam¬ ically full of the pep and eagerness which characterize us Reading girls. Those girls who fought for dear old Alma Mater were: Seniors — Irene Goodwin, captain; Mava Classen, Jeanette Davis, Elizabeth Emery, Marjorie Foye, Mary Story, Mary Widell. Juniors — Marjorie Crosby, captain; Madeline Chisholm, Astrid Johnson, Lois Knapp, Dorothy Mac- mann, Helen Madden, Barbara Marshall, Mildred Mur¬ phy, Mary Norton, Beatrice O’Donnell, Catherine Pow¬ ell, Gladys White. Sophomores — Jeanette Davis, captain; Muriel Ar¬ thur, Betty Beaudry, Betty Blaikie, Kathleen Brown, Kathryn Conron, Margit Courossi, Helen Crane, Bar¬ bara Currie, Elizabeth Dalton, Helen Foster, Alice Good¬ win, Betty Kimball, Marjorie Maguire, Betty Miller, Virginia Perkins, Eleanor Pestana, Catherine Witham. Once more we girls upheld the name of Reading as can be seen in the following resume of games: Arlington at Reading—We started this, our first game of the season, with a crash and a bang with Sen¬ iors winning 18-4, the Juniors continuing their winning streak of the previous year with the score 22-13, but with the Sophomores making their debut and finding themselves a little on the short side with the score of 12-35. Reading at Winchester — Upon arriving at Win¬ chester, we met some very keen and exciting competi¬ tion. The Seniors because of the loss of side center, Marjorie Foye in the second quarter and guard, Eliza¬ beth Emery in the last quarter were left much to their disappointment with the score of 7—12. The Juniors were still going strong by adding another win to their record, 14—8. However, the Sophomores still couldn’t seem to get going and were again left on the short side with the score of 12—28. Lexington at Reading — A fine group of Lexington girls came here—full of pep and eagerness to win be¬ cause of their defeat of the previous year, but we were still a little too much for them. The Seniors took their game 1G—5, the Juniors again won 29—13, and the Sophomores at last won too, with the score of 24_2. Reading at Punchard — This game was certainly a colorful one—the Punchard girls were dashing about m theii beautiful blue satin suits. The Seniors won 15—6, but alas, what happened to the Juniors? They must have been dazzled by the colors or was their w in¬ ning streak getting to be a habit? Anyway the Juniors lost 6—9, but the Sophomores kept up the good work by winning again 19—6. Incidentally a return game was played the following week with Punchard here, and the Juniors atoned for their previous loss by winning, as did likewise the Sen¬ iors and Sophomores again. Reading at Wakefield — We arrived at Wakefield minus the usual keen rivalry that arises between the two teams because the Seniors took the inexperienced Wakefield girls 25—12, the Juniors, 16—7 and the Sophomores 26—4. Malden at Reading — This game marked our debut at that new type of basketball called two-court basket¬ ball. We played with only a first and second team. Al¬ though there was much strife and contention attached to this game, the less said the better. If the Reading girls ever had a chance to test and show their good sportsmanship, that was the time, and I think we stood the test. Despite our inexperience at two-court bas¬ ketball, we showed up well—the first team losing only by the score of 14—28 and the second team coming through by winning with the score of 26—21. We ended a grand season by playing the Junior High School and winning all three games. BACKWARD GLANCES What two Junior girls were left behind at the Wakefield game and had us worried all night? Hope you didn’t mind the walk home, girls! We shall all certainly miss that lively Senior cap¬ tain wh o provided us all with such enthusiasm, fun, and entertainment wherever we went. W ho was the Sophomore that could never seem to stand on her feet? Wasn’t the floor rather hard, Bette? And now let us take a peek into the Reading Girls’ Hall of Fame to get a glimpse of some of the passing Senior basketball members. Elizabeth Emery, an alert, dependable guard who protected the score unfailingly for the Seniors, played an excellent game all season. Jeanette Davis was also out for guard (or w ' as she?) Anyhow, she was kept pretty busy by “The Captain”; so we can’t blame her. Despite this she was faithful to the team and played a grand game. Mava Classen or The Duchess” was a “guard what is a guard ’. She prevented many a point and was in the game every minute. Isn’t that right, “Wolf?” Marjorie 1 oye, a fast stepping, high jumping side center, was certainly a necessity to the team, and she was not swerved from the course by a certain Donald. Thirty-six The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight GIRLS’ BASKETBALL TEAM First row: Madeline Chisholm, Elizabeth Emery, Mary Story, Mary Widell, Jeanette Davis, Irene Goodwin, Marjorie Crosby, Jeanette Davis, senior, Marjorie Foye, Mava Classen, Dorothy MacMann Second row: Kay Whitham, Helen Crane, Eois Knapp, Mildred Murphy, Gladys White, Astrid Johnson Rarbara Marshall, Mary Norton, Helen Madden, Kathleen Brown, Beatrice O’Donnell Third row: Barbara Currie, Muriel Arthur, Elizabeth Dalton, Elizabeth Blake, Alice Goodwin, Bette Kimball, Betty Miller, Elinor Pestana, Margaret Courassi, Betty Beaudry, Kathlyn Conron Mary Story, a grand center, kept strictly to her game and what a game she played! All we can say is— we’ll certainly miss her next year. Irene Goodwin—well, we have to be careful what we say because “Goody might get her boyfriend after us (a well-known threat) but she certainly did set the pace for the rest of the girls! Mary Widell—what about our modest sports edi¬ tor ? She certainly has deserved much commendation for her expert handling of the forward position for the Seniors. We now want to thank all the girls who participated in basketball, and whom we have not been able to men¬ tion because of the limit of space. But who could end a sports article about us Reading girls without men¬ tioning the one who has made all our fun possible? 1 mean none other than our grand coach, Miss Nichols! Our expression of gratitude to her can hardly be ex¬ pressed in words; so all we can give in return is a humble “thank-you ”. In closing, we extend best wishes to all you future athletes of the coming year, and we hope that you have as much fun playing as we have had this year. Sports Editors, Mary Widell, ’38 Dorothy Macmann, ’39 BOWLING Since the Reading girls are so ingenious and willing to undertake anything new, bowling was attempted this year. At the suggestion of Mr. Steven Powell and with the backing of Miss Nichols, a group of girls began bowling — some beginning for the first time. The energetic ones were Josephine Powell, Berna- dine Haselton, Marjorie Crosby, Olivia Hersom, Claire Delong, Rita Riley, Mava Classen, Marjorie Wentworth, Irene Goodwin, Marian Goodridge, Martha Randall, Betsy Foxcroft, Bette Kimball, Audrey Nicholson, and Dorothy Macmann. The main purpose of this team was to enter the Boston American Bowling Contest in Boston, held at the Huntington Club Alleys. After many a Friday of practicing at “Dan’s” with prizes of boxes of chocolates given to high scorers, the girls bravely went to Boston and entered the contest. Incidentally, if you carefully read the sports section of the Boston American the day after the contest, you probably saw a delightful picture of our team. Since only individual scores were taken, there was no team rating. Two of our girls won medals for high scoring: Josephine Powell who came in sixth and Mar¬ jorie Crosby who came in twelfth. This was also “Crosby’s” first year so we were quite proud of her. Ahem! Really, girls, it was loads of fun. Why not try it again next year? Thirty-seven The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight SWIMMING Through the winter many daring young mermaids from the Reading High School braved the cold and storm to take their weekly “dip at the Malden Y. M. C. A. At first a good number went swimming, but the group gradually dwindled down to the few regular ' ‘fish who haunted the pool of a Thursday afternoon: Mar¬ jorie Crosby, Barbara Marshall, “little” Jeanette Davis, Dorothy Bailey, and Dorothy Macmann. Much com¬ mendation should be given to the “swans” that were so expertly executed by Barbara Marshall and to those sensational (?) “jack-knives” of Marjorie Crosby. May¬ be it was due to the new springboard which we all so readily appreciated. Those two aforementioned divers were also the speed demons at the pool. We all had loads of fun with our favorite “frog” dives and “death defying” leaps into the pool’s deepest depths this year, and we hope next year’s hopefuls will have as much fun as we have had. TENNIS With the coming of spring many of us girls once more dug out our rackets and started polishing up fore¬ hands and backhands for the girls’ tennis team or for the school tournaments. There are now about ten girls out for the team and about twenty or twenty-five girls par¬ ticipating in the round-robin tournaments. The tourna¬ ments and team elimination matches are being mostly played on Monday and Wednesday afternoons at the Park. Some of the girls are planning to enter the Bel¬ mont Tennis Tournament in June for individual scoring. Good luck to you, girls, and hope you bring back a cup or two for dear old Reading! Dorothy Macmann, ’39 THIS PROBLEM OF HOMEWORK It’s almost a certainty that all of us at one time or another have been shown the light by Mr. Halpin, Mr. Dixon, or Miss England and have gone home fired with ambition, deciding to throw the frivolities of life out the window, settle down, and become the valedictorian of the class. If one of your teachers hasn’t said to you at least once that if you studied a bit harder, paid atten¬ tion in class, and adopted a more scholarly attitude that you could be an A student instead of remaining in the niche you now occupy, you have missed one of the joys of life. Of course, those who can study in their rooms are slightly better off than those who are forced to begin their career studying in the parlor or dining-room. The first group can be discarded with scarcely a thought, for it is to the latter class that we dedicate ourselves. One sits down at a table with every intention of studying hard. He turns the first page of his history assignment and is becoming immersed in the exciting study of the causes of the Civil War when his mother shouts, “Henry, will you go to the store for me?” A debate which would have rivalled Burke’s Con¬ ciliation Speech ensues but like Burke he finally lo3e and goes to the store only to come back disgrunted with the sarcastic remark that stores are not open on Wed¬ nesday afternoon. Back to work he’s just fought through the battle of Bull Run when that pesky telephone rings. “Yes, what-—no—this isn’t the Reading chapter of the Society of Garbage Collectors (the rest can’t be print¬ ed).” With this out of his system our ambitious student settles down again to some hard work. If only the door¬ bell would stop ringing! “I’m sorry, but my mother’s out just now. No—I don’t believe I’d be interested in any genuine hand- woven silk stockings. What—no—you see, I stopped using safety-pins quite a while ago. Why I don’t doubt that I’ll never again have such an opportunity to buy such merchandise.” “Now where in blazes did I put that assignment book? Oh well, I can call up Ruggles. He’ll surely know.” “Richard’s not there? Well, thank you.” After a number of other fruitless calls our hero takes the optimistic point of view and decides that his other class-mates probably wouldn’t have any idea about the homework either. Now, if only little nuisance of a brother would only quiet down and stop running around as though he were trying to play a football game all by himself. Mean¬ while, time is elapsing and our future genius is aroused out of his murderous thoughts by the call for supper. “Well, I probably can do it better on a full stom¬ ach.” .... “I’ll absolutely start on it as soon as I finish read¬ ing the paper.” .... “I’m going to begin as soon as Fred Allen’s over and anyway I’ve only got homework in physics, English, French and history.” .... “It’s eleven o’clock and I must retire—what—oh, I’ve got a couple of study periods tomorrow.” .... “Oh shucks, are we really going to have an assem¬ bly?” Out of sympathy we’ll leave the rest of the story out. Thus you see the train of events that lead to the downfall of many pupils. Therefore, we feel it neces¬ sary to offer a few suggestions. Of course, the seniors don’t have to read this part, for they’ve already made their rather dubious mark on the world. First, one should strengthen his will power so as to be able to ignore trifling annoyances, such as an earth¬ quake or the house burning down. Second, lastly, and probably most important, one should read Dale Carnegie’s book, “How to Make Friends and Influence People,” in order to be on such good terms with the teachers that they won’t give you any homework. Herbert Carter ’38 Thirty-eight The fact that the Pioneer is published only twice a year makes it impossible for us to acknowledge our exchanges very often. However, the Board wishes those schools which so generously exchange with us to know that we find their magazines full of helpful ideas as well as a strengthening tie between our schools. May we offer a few comments belated though some may be: Congratulations to Tewksbury High for their splen¬ did little monthly “High Lights”. Your “Junior What- Not” is a slick spot. Melrose High’s “School Life” has a “Notion Coun¬ ter” tucked in. Notions are always different; these happen to be clever also. From way down yonder in Tennesee (Nashville incidentally) we receive the “Hume-Fogg Echo”. Your atmosphere must inspire good poetry. “The Hill Quill” sent to us without a bill from Walpole, Mass., bears a fine literary section. You really should make your departments stand out from each other more, however. Ipswich has a little “Cub” and a fine paper too. Your athletic section is well worth the space you give it. Westford, Mass., has a paper which has very good illustrations, “The Clarion”. Having your poetry scat¬ tered throughout is very effective. To “The Alpha” of Wilmington, Mass., we send congratulations for your art work. Your taking advan¬ tage of February’s being a holiday month with plenty of subjects to draw on was wise. Why don ' t you try putting all your advertisements at the end of your paper? From Gloucester, England, we have “The Cryptian”. Your “Society” section is commendable. How t do you ever arrange for so many photographs! The Johnson High School, in North Andover, Mass, sends in the “Johnson Journal”. Your “Club Notes and Alumni News are especially good. “The Brocktonia ”, Brockton High School’s weekly paper, is a really “newsy” newspaper. Congratulations on your “Personal Info”. Sailing in from Hyannis, Mass., cames “The Clip¬ per” with a “Writer’s Corner”, very varied and very good. Your “Personal Touch” is really effective. “The Aegis” from Beverly, Mass., has some very good poetry, but couldn’t you add a little more to your humor section? “The Reflector” from Woburn, Mass., had a grand lot of stories and not such a little poetry either. Your class notes are fine. “The Unquity Echo” from Milton, Mass., echoes out with the same marvelous snapshots. Elinor E. Pow¬ ell’s poem “Schappnel” impressed me very much. “The Stoneham High Authentic” boasts some par¬ ticularly good editorials. How about a little more humor? Methuen’s “Blue and White” is surely not in the red for humor. A little more on the literary angle might go well. “The Western Star” from West Somerville makes an effective emphasis on photographs. Your “Athletes” are well written up. From Saugus, Mass., we must focus on “The Focus” especially “The Professor’s Plan.” Your “Senior Class’s Line a Day”, although more than a line, is very hu¬ morous. The Pioneer certainly appreciates the beneficial cri¬ ticisms and suggestions that the exchanges have offered us; and we liked the nice things you said about our magazine, too! Virginia Watson ’38 Exchanges Thirty-nine 1. Robert Wakeling 2. Richard Smith 3. Johnina Clapperton 4. Herbert Stark 5. Betty Ives 6. Arthur Moulton 7. Miles O’Donnell 8. Elizabeth Emery 9. Wilfred White 10. Roy White 11. Phyllis Richman 12. Alice Bailey 13. Lillian Arsenault 14. Sussette Weigmann 15. Irene Goodwin 16. Arthur Roberts 17. Esther Quimette 18. Herbert Richmond 19. Edson King 20. Albert Wright 21. Thelma Bates 22. Marjorie Rollins 23. Lorenna Towns 24. Richard Ruggles 25. Arthur Beaman 26. Leora Stratton 27. Donald White 28. Betty Carter 29. Richard Lyons 30. Daniel Barrett 31. Lillian Ivester 32. Miss Ernst 33. Mary Callan 34. Nelson Burbank 35. Elinor Littlefield 36. Robert Pratt 37. Dorothy Wilkinson 38. Pauline Stickland 39. Marjorie Foye 40. Madeline Chisholm 41. Ralph Pomeroy 42. Francis Thornton 43. Alice Esty 44. Edith Southwick 45. Evelyn Talbot 46. Marjorie Richards 47. Margaret Sullivan 48. Elaine Browne 49. Miriam Sidelinger 50. Beatrice White 51. Alice Gonnam 52. Ruth Parry 53. Alice Flynn 54. Ann Robertson 55. Mava Classen 56 Jeannette Forbes 57. Isabel Mac Sheehy 58. Nina Lowell 59. Mary Barrett 60. Barbara Griffith 61. Doris Donegan 62. Priscilla Johnson 63. Peter Curl 64. Thomas Skidmore SELECTIONS FROM THE GRADUATION SPEECHES THE CIVILIAN CONSERVATION CORPS Economists and social workers today find them¬ selves confronted by this question: What is to be done about the position of youth in our economic system ' . ' 1 One experiment that has been tried to remedy the prob¬ lem is the C. C. C. President Roosevelt created the C. C. C. with the idea of giving temporary employment to young men and at the same time preserving the na¬ tural resources of the country. The C. C. C. has accomplished important work in forest culture, forest protection, erosion control, and flood control. Moreover, the young men thus engaged have had an opportunity to further their education, which in many cases has been extremely limited. While it is apparent that there is no permanent solution to youth’s problem until the business recovery is clearly under way, the C. C. C. has fulfilled its unique pur¬ pose and continues to fulfill a very definite need in the trying times that still confront us. William Richmond Salutatory THE PROPAGATION OF DEMOCRACY THROUGH EDUCATION There is no getting away from the fact that the star of democracy is definitely in the descendency. Peo¬ ple in great numbers here and abroad have given up their democratic beliefs because the struggle has been too wearisome; the battle has been too long and dis¬ couraging. It is because people are so emotionally tired of it all that the “ism” followers are increasing so rapidly. These new un-democratic governments of¬ fer a pleasant-sounding release from all this struggle for democracy. What can we do about it, you may wonder. There can he only one way out, only one way: to revitalize the spirit of democracy. Through education, opportunity will reveal itself to us, will make us “breathe the invig¬ orating air of freedom.” Education alone can make us realize the true value of democracy and wake us up to the fact that it’s democracy we re all after. Public schools were originally founded to turn out better citizens, since a democracy can be no better than the standard of its citizenship. Everyone assumed that the public schools were ful¬ filling their purpose until someone thought of question¬ ing the subject. A series of tests was compiled to be given to high school students containing questions con¬ cerning the public and political world in which we live. The results were astonishing with sufficient proof that the public schools are not teaching enough of the ma¬ terial that goes to make up good citizens. Communist schools are teaching Communism; Fas¬ cist schools are turning out Fascists. Why can’t demo¬ cratic schools turn out democrats? Virginia Watson Valedictory TO BE OF SERVICE IS TO BE GREAT Education implies responsibility. The more a man is educated, so much more is his responsibility to his community. We are not educated by our state to en¬ able us to secure better positions in life and to enable us to earn a better salary. We are educated that we may be better fitted to contribute something beneficial to humanity. The more we are educated, the more is expected of us. If we do something better for this world and if we make money besides, so much the bet¬ ter. But money and position should never be our aim. Service should be the highest of our aspirations. The greatest of men are men of service. Yet they have not been richly rewarded or granted fame by the world. How often do we hear of Swedenborg? Not very often! Yet without the work of Swedenborg, medi¬ cine, science, mathematics, religion, and philosophy would be not what they are today. Mendel! How often do we hear of him? Practically never, yet he made contributions to humanity equally as numerous and im¬ portant as Swedenborg. Damien is another unknown. Yet this heroic priest laid down his life in service. He, knowing he would he certain to die of leprosy, asked to be sent to Malohai, a leper colony. He made the sup¬ reme sacrifice for these poor lepers whom he chose to call his friends. Name after name could I mention all of service to humanity—great deeds and little deeds, et all done, not for gain, hut for service. Success is not measured by Forty-one | y • T if e Pioneer - - - - Nineteen thirty- eight worldly acclaim, but the succesful man is he who serves his fellowmen. George Madden Class Honors AMERICA MUST CHOOSE Not many years ago, an old, lean, rawboned, leath¬ er-skinned farmer named Hank lived all by himself way up on the Andoscroggin River valley in Maine. His bun¬ galow was so situated that he had a twelve mile view down the valley. During the years he ' d lived in the wil¬ derness, Hank had made only one trip back to civiliza¬ tion. One evening, Hank sat on his doorstep, puffing at his pipe. So far down the valley that he had to strain his eyes to see it. Hank watched a thin wisp of smoke rising above the trees. There being no Indians, that smoke meant but one thing. Another human being who had shouldered his way into the wilderness was sitting be¬ fore his hearth. Hank picked up his shotgun to pepper the newcomer sufficiently so that no one else would dare disturb his hunting ground for a while. In contrast we have this other situation. About eighty years ago, a famous editor lived in Newburyport. He had suffered a very hot and checkered career. In the face of a thousand angry people he was willing to speak his mind and what he thought to be the truth. For some of the things he said, that man was dragged through the streets of Boston with a halter around his neck. In spite of all this severe treatment, Editor Garrison was willing to forgive the human race and make this gener¬ ous statement: “My country is the world; my country¬ men are all mankind.” In terms of our foreign policy, Hank was an isola¬ tionist. He lived all by himself. Earning his own liv¬ ing, he refused to be dependent on anyone. He wanted neither help nor to be helped. And he bitterly resented the intrusion of anyone into his sphere of influence. On the other hand, we have William Lloyd Gar¬ rison, a firm believer in co-operation. He wanted to help himself and to help others. If these others didn’t want to be helped, that made no difference. Garrison be¬ lieved that anyone should help his neighbor, and he was determined to do his part in co-operation, whether any¬ one else liked it or not. Peter Curl Faculty Honors CLASS PROPHECY PART I Washington, D. C. June 20, 1953 Dear Stella, e were sorry your duties at the Marchetti Beauty Shoppe prevented you from attending the 1938 class re¬ union of dear old Reading High on June 9th. We know you are anxious to hear ail about the old crowd, so Or¬ ville Poland, a leading New York lawyer, Norma Ken¬ dall, who left her duties as head librarian of the Boston Library to attend and I (Marjorie Morss) have volun¬ teered to write you a full acount of the reunion. While devoted to my husband and Junior, 1 per¬ severed and made a detour from my responsibilities, so that I could visit the home of my school days. It is the best tonic I know. Really, my dear, I feel fifteen years younger! I left Washington early on the morning of June 8th, in company with Betty Nichols and Phyllis Richman who hold fine government positions. The first of the trip was uneventful, but at Philadelphia, Jeannette Forbes of the Metropolitan Opera Co., Jane Zynsky who teaches school outside of Philadelphia and Miriam Sidelinger who after her graduation from the University of Maine, became a social worker, boarded the train. Miriam is as jolly and gay as ever, and kept us in gales of laughter with her incessant chatter during the rest of the trip. In the diner, whom should we meet but Robert Holden! He was the waiter at our table, and looked immaculate in his white coat. Jeannette ordered a cup of tea-weak. When the waiter brought it, she eyed it cynically. “Well, what’s wrong with it? You said weak, didn’t you?” asked Robert Holden. “Weak, yes,” replied Jeannette, “but not helpless.” My, my such wit! In New York we were joined by Jeanette Davis Thornton, whose husband, Francis, couldn’t be with her, because he is involved in a big business deal just now. Other passengers boarding the train in New York were Professional Golfer Richard Smith, and Lieutenant Ben¬ jamin Howe of the U. S. Aviation Service. They were surrounded by a bevy of admiring females, bidding them goodbye. Later in Reading, we had fun helping Dickie select a greeting card which he wished to send. He seemed uncertain as to what he should buy. The clerk, Marjorie Richards, trying to be helpful picked up a card and said to Dickie, “Here’s a lovely sentiment.” It says, “To the only girl I ever loved.” “Splendid,” cried Dickie. I 11 take six of those, please. (Did someone say he was a woman-hater?) When we arrived in Boston, we obtained a taxi. Who do you think drove our cab? Brendon Hoyt. (After that wild ride across the city, I’m surprised I’m here to tell the tale!) He told us he hoped to see us the next night at the reunion. In due time we arrived in dear old Reading. Most of the out-of-town guests made their headquarters at that “hotel de luxe,” the Reading Inn. George Hodgkins, the proprietor, gave us a very cordial welcome and called bell boys, Allen Boyd and Ralph Pomeroy (Mutt and Jeff of 1953) to take our bags to our rooms. I he rooms smelled of fresh paint, the mattresses were like rocks, and the windows stuck so we couldn’t get a bit of air, but outside of that we were most comfortable. After dinner, it began to rain (good old Reading weather), so a party of us attended Forty-two The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight the local cinema, and enjoyed the comforts of those “luxurious seats. ’ We were guests of the manager, Nelson Burbank. We were especially interested in the feature picture, “Aren ' t We All Nuts? as it starred Mary Callan. After the show, we visited our old haunt Torre’s for refreshments, and were served by those charming waitresses, Mary Proncko and Alice Flynn. Anne Robertson, who had come all the way from South Jalapy, was being bothered by an attack of rheumatism, brought on no doubt by the rain, which was still relent¬ lessly pouring down. She had brought her small son, Dingbats, with her. When we got back to the Inn. 1 tried to help Anne by offering to put little Dingbats to bed. After I got him undressed, I suggested that he pray for warm weather, so that his mother’s rheumatism might pass away. So, he obediently knelt and prayed, “Oh Lord, please make it hot for Mama. These modern children! Either his prayer was answered, or the pills Dr. Robert Wakeling prescribed, or the combination of both, effected a cure, for the next day Anne was 0. K. and in tip-top shape for the reunion that night. As 1938 gathered for its reunion in the old assem¬ bly hall of Reading High, there were shouts of “Why you haven’t changed a bit,” “You don’t look a bit older,” and none of us had-—that is to each other. Perhaps we were a bit heavier, or had a few gray hairs, but to us it was the same tiny Lillian Ivester coming all the way from California, where she has been trying to break into pictures, (if they don’t break her first), and it was the same Priscilla Johnson, still running a comb through her hair, and fussing about it not looking just right, who had come all the way from Middlebury, Vermont, where she is a professor of French. It was fun to see Frank Davis, now treasurer of the Niekle and Dime Savings Bank, for he had lost that worired, hunting, seeking look that a class treasurer so often seems to acquire. The meeting was opened by our old class president John Colley, now a successful attorney of the firm “Hound and Colley. Then, Doris Donegan, our class secretary, who now is a teacher, read us letters of regret which she had received from some of the alumni who could not attend. Among those heard from were Lieu¬ tenant Clarence Baker, who is stationed in Hawaii) hope he keeps his boat afloat! Those Hawaiian girls were too fascinating to leave, or weren’t they?), Marion Turner, who put duty before pleasure and refused to leave her post of nursing, Virginia Watson, who coul dn’t leave her forty-eight children (Pupils to you!) and Irene Goodwin, an instructor of Physical Education, who was suffering from a hornet sting on her nose. A lavish banquet from soup to nuts was served. It was in charge of our old classmate Louise Murphy, who is a dietitian. Richard Merrill, a coach of athletics, made a splendid toast to the unmarried girls of the class. Here it is: To the Girls The fairest flowers of all mankind: May you each be blessed with a husband fair Six feet tall with light blonde hair May you each obtain success and joy With first a girl and then a boy, Some girls are fat, and some are thin, Some look like something the cat dragged in. But whether large or whether small, Believe it or not, we love you all. In return to such a gracious toast, Elinor Littlefield (Dame Gossip has it that orange blossoms are soon forthcoming) gave one to the boys: To the Boys And to the boys this toast we give, We know the girls just couldn’t live Without fussin’, dates, and dancin’ Moonlight nights, and such romancin’ They think that we get all the breaks, But it’s really they, for heavens’ sakes; All we girls would have no hopes If it weren’t for them—the dopes— And so dear boys, here’s to you But don’t think all I’ve said is true You see I just had to be polite Hence this toast to you tonight. After we had untied our bibs, we were entertained by the more gifted and vivacious alumni. It was a pleasure to see Betty Ives, Priscilla Mathieson, Ruth Parry, and Betty Carter slip back into their Glee Club roles. They are all concert singers, you know. John Putnam, the radio star, rendered several solos. Marie Reed, who is on her way to becoming an opera star, also sang in a most pleasing manner. Elaine Browne, who is a brilliant violinist with the Symphony Orches¬ tra, favored us with several selections. Mava Classen, clad in a most becoming and impromptu costume of turkish towels borrowed from the Reading Inn for the occasion, gave us a most snappy tap dance. She has been taking lessons from that most eminent teacher, Victorine St. Onge. Between courses general dancing was enjoyed. There was a battle of music furnished by Bob Clinch’s “Swinging Daredevils’ and Virginia Hart¬ shorn’s “Angels of Jazz. Foreign diplomat, Peter Curl and Alice Estey, night club entertainer, decided to do the dance craze of 1953, and did we get a great kick out of watching them make whoopee. I have promised to take Junior to the circus this afternoon, so think I shall have to say goodbye for this time. 1 know that Orville and Norma will write you the rest of the dirt. Your old classmate, (Mrs.) Marjorie Morss Fuflidinkel Forty-three The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight CLASS PROPHECY PART II Boston, Mass. June 21, 1953 Dear Stella, As Marjory informed you, we were very delightfully entertained in the dear old high school, but because of her anxiety to get home to Junior, she neglected to tell you that the delicious dinner we had was served by that suave society head-waiter, Donald Miller, and his as¬ sistants, Arthur Beaman, Myles O’Donnell, and Richard Cleveland. “Dick” insisted on racing around the tables with his tray and managed to drop a cream puff down the neck of Emerson Batchelder, the well-known movie critic. One thing caused Mr. Miller much consterna¬ tion. George Batten, the famous cartoonist, persisted in displaying his art on the damask table cover. During the last course, we were amused by the satirical remarks of the renowned lecturer, Natalie Kevin. “Nat was seriously annoyed by a heated debate being carried on during her speech by George Madden and Pauline Stick- land, two leading candidates for Governor of Massa¬ chusetts, as to how the soup spoon should be dipped. They were finally silenced by Ellsworth Croswell and Bert Goodwin, two “bouncers” hired for the occasion. Of course no trouble had been anticipated, but the school hoard, headed by “Jimmy” Doucette, was taking no chances. The speeches made during dinner were recorded by a corps of expert stenographers, among whom were Johnina Clapperton, Marjorie Foye, Margaret Sullivan, and Beatrice White. After dinner we all trooped down the old stairs creaking with memories, (the stairs, not us) to the gym. On the way down, we noticed that Earl Van Horn and Edson King, two former all-Americans, were supporting a rather green-faced gentleman down the stairway. Bar¬ bara Griffith, head nurse at a large hospital, rushed over to minister to him and discovered that he was “Art Rees, genial man-about-town, who had succumbed to too many of the tempting foods at dinner. In the gym, which had been decorated by the famous painter of murals, Sussette Weigmann, we danced many of the old-time dances such as the “Susie Q” and “Big Apple which brought hack such tender memories. “Bill Shannon, now a Massachusetts Senator, gave us a splendid exhibition of the old-time truckin’. While Bill was in the middle of his dance, who should come in hut our old Coach Batchelder, supported on the arm of his tall son, David. Needless to say, he was enthusi¬ astically greeted by everyone. At twelve o’clock, the old piano gave a weary sigh and refused to give forth another note. Most of us were grateful for this rebellion on the part of the ancient music-box as we re not as young as we used to he when we first danced to its strains. A noisy rattle was heard outside, and we discovered that it was made by Maxie Ruderman with his faith¬ ful, old farm truck, ready and willing to take us in in¬ stallments to the Inn. We started out, and he whizzed through the square with a number of bangs and rattles. This rough treatment tossed the occupants around much to the disgust of Ruth Spear and Edith Southwick, two puzzle experts who were trying to have a quiet game of tic-tac-toe on the back of one of Maxie’s calves while Theodore Lawson, the Sherlock Holmes of his day, held a match for them to see by. Roy White, the night policeman in the square, stop¬ ped us to see what all the racket was about but smiled and waved us on when he saw it was a bunch of his old friends. We all piled out at the Inn and started up the stairs when we heard a wild screech. We rushed back to find that one of the calves was sitting on Betty Jewell’s lap. Betty, who is a trainer in a flea circus, doesn’t know how to handle calves, so Barbara Leach and Ernestine Lowell, two wild animal trainers, coaxed the animal from its resting place. When the rest of the party had arrived, we went up¬ stairs, and after the chambermaids, Helen Barrett and Dorothy Doucette, had arranged distribution of our rooms, we were soon settled for the night. Everything was quiet until about three o’clock when everyone was awakened by a loud voice in the hall. Doors opened and heads popped out to see Virginia Wellington, trage¬ dienne, trailing along sound asleep, reciting from her latest play. Without disturbing the eloquent recitation, Marjory Rollins, world-famous psychiatrist, led the de¬ claiming sleep-walker back to her room, and we slept the rest of the night undisturbed. The next morning dawned bright and clear, and someone suggested that we have a picnic. This idea met with unanimous approval, for it brought back memories of our disappearing youth. We all helped the cook, Mary Barrett, pack a number of large lunch hampers and merrily set off for Barker’s Woods. When we arrived there, the men, head¬ ed by “Bud Wright, current matinee idol, wanted to eat right away, .but the girls shooed them off and began leisurely preparations for lunch. Barbara Kimball, the model housewife, was supervising the proceedings and was showing Dorothy Wilkinson, the perfect secretary, how to use the can opener, when we heard a splash and a loud yell. We rushed over to the pond a few yards away, and found “Archie’ McMillan in the middle of it, tangled up in fishing tackle which he manufactures. Madeline Chisholm, swimmer of the English Chan¬ nel. and Frances Amirault and Lillian Arsenault, two trapeze artists, were doing their best to haul him out, but it took “Charlie Dunn, holder of the world’s speed record in driving and bis mechanic, Frank O’Brien, to fish out the would-be fisherman. Archie returned to the fire kindled by Scout leader, Leora Stratton, and sat Forty-five T H E Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY - EIGHT shivering by its flames, while “Peggy” Bennett, Ruth Hoyt, and Esther Ouimette, all busy housewives, dosed him with hot lemonade until he feebly protested. Elsie Putnam and Pauline Glover, interior decora tors, laid the luncheon cloth on the grass, and “Tommy” Taylor and Mary Widell, two marathon runners, were kept busy telling the ants where to get off. After a satisfying luncheon, spiced with pickles and bugs, we returned again to the Inn where we sat around discussing old times until it was time for us to pack our baggage for the trip home. I have written to Orville Poland to ask him to tell you the rest as 1 have several letters to write to high school students who have not returned their books. Sincerely yours, Norma Kendall Dear Stella, CLASS PROPHECY PART III New York, New York June 22, 1953 We missed your smiling face at our reunion in Reading, and to say that you missed a good time is put¬ ting it mildly. Marjorie and Norma have told you about many of your former classmates, and now I guess it’s up to me to put on the finishing touches. On Saturday morning, all of the class gathered on the station platform to give the departing members a rousing send-off for home. A special train lay waiting in the station. A large delegation stood on the platform holding banners. Leading this delegation was Muriel Kelly, a prominent artist. Among the other leaders of this delegation were Alice Bailey, Elizabeth Barstow. Elizabeth Emery, Nina Lowell, and Lorenna Towns. After several goodbye speeches had been given, the departing members rushed aboard despite the cries of “Slowly, slowly’ by station agent, Lawrence Enos. Once everyone was on, trainman Francis McGrath called “All aboard,” and the train pulled out of the station amid the cries of the remaining Reading High School Grads. On the train I sat with Paul Nichols and Herbert Carter, typesetters for The Boston Post, and Willis Tuck¬ er. Willis is today a salesman and a very good one. So good a salesman is he that he almost convinced me that 1 should buy up Boston Common quickly before banker Tommy Skidmore did. Upon my disembarking from the train in the North Station, I noticed a huge poster exalting the features of Buggies ' s Circus. The main attractions included “Hug¬ ger Stark, the lion tamer, and Russ Galvin, the man who rides across a tight rope on a bicycle. As I came to the doorway out to the street, I was suddenly halted b) a crowd which filled the entrance-way. Danny Bar¬ rett. the distinguished fiddle player, had got bis bass viol wedged into the doorway and despite the help of Emerson Oliver, a station policeman, he could not free it. After a little delay, I continued on my way up to the State House where 1 had to look up some records. Entering the State House, I caught sight of a familiar figure. 1 here, all dressed in uniform, just as if he had stepped out of the 1938 Senior Play, stood Robert Pratt. He informed me that he was one of the State House guards. After I had looked up my records, I literally ran into John Sawyer and Dean Winchester chatting in the corridor. They accepted my apology and I learned that Dean was the Speaker of tile House and that John was Lieutenant Governor. I had left the State House and crossed Boston Com¬ mon where I was attracted by a large crowd. It seems that Harold Zitzow ' had attempted to make a May Day speech applauding Communism. Imagine a May Day speech on the 15th of June! He had failed as policeman Russell Merrill had hustled him off to the police station. It was nearly time for lunch and I walked down toward the Parker House. Since my law business has picked up, I have stopped eating lunches of hamburgs at the White Tower. Standing in front of the hotel was Malcolm McGann, now a doorman. He was just as stately as he was as a butler in our Senior Play. After leisurely eating my dinner, served by that charming waitress, Hazel Terhune, I paid the cashier, Muriel J ut nam, and made my way into the lobby. I bought a newspaper from Arthur Roberts and turned to the sport section where I was pleasantly surprised to read, in a signed article by Wilfred White, that the Boston Red Sox had just bought Walter Doucette and Don White from the Cleveland Indians for $100,000. I had scarcely finished reading the article about the trade when I was startled by Robert Gray. Bob, now a dealer in stamps, began telling what a great buy I would get if I bought these rare four-sided triangle stamps from South west Bermuda. In order to escape his clutches I had to tell him that I already had some stamps exactly like the ones he had shown me. As I left, I noticed Bill Richmond, the owner of the Richmond Wrinkless Prune Factory and Art Moulton, an aeronautical engineer, chatting behind clouds of blue cigar smoke. As I had the afternoon free, 1 decided to go to the movies. I went up to the Paramount Theatre and paid Marjorie Foster, the ticket seller, my money and went in. I he feature picture, follow ' the Fleas,” starring Francena Stevens and John Eisenhaure was very good. Incidentally in the short pictures, Mary Story’s and Dorothea Domin s fashion firm showed the latest thin ,r in hats. After the movies I caught a taxi driven by Roger Dooley, who zipped me down to catch the New York boat. Just as the gangway started up, Richard Lyons Fort y-six The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight appeared loaded down with medals which he had won in the tennis matches at Forest Hills. With the assist¬ ance of a push by longshoremen, Jesse Anderson, Rich¬ ard managed to make the gangplank before it was raised by Russell Whitford. At supper, I could glance around and see several familiar faces. At one table Annette Brown and Betty Higgins had their heads together over a diagram. Inci¬ dentally they are the tops in interior decorating. If you don’t believe it, they were decorating the top floor of the Empire State Building last month. At another table was a delegation of secretaries evidently going to some secretaries convention. This group contained Alice Godfrey, Isabelle McSheehy, Doris Peterson, Ruth Sur- ette, Evelyn Talbot, and Leona Thibodeau. At another table sat Art Beaudoin, a six foot, two hundred fifty pound Columbia football coach. By the way, Art had just finished posing for a statue by Alice Gonnam. Immediately after supper, I went out on deck where I heard some groans and I saw Herbert Richmond, feel¬ ing very sick. He had an attack of saesickness, but very fortunately Thelma Bates, a trained nurse, was along to hold the bucket. The rest of the ev ening was uneventful and after a short talk with Willis Carter, the mate and Fred Dacey, the captain, I turned in. When I arose on the next morning, we were docked in New York. All good things must come to an end, so here I am back on the job in New York, with happy memories of a joyous reunion of the Class of 1938. Sincerely yours, Orville Poland CLASS WILL We, the class of 1938, about to pass from this sphere of education do make and publish this, our last will and testament, hereby revoking and making void all former wills and promises by us at any time here-to- fore made. Since, as a class, we have been blessed with very little material wealth, these gifts may seem rather trifling, but we hope that they will be appreciated, such as they are, and will prove useful to their recipients. 1. To Donald Miller we leave this one-way ticket to Greenwood, so as to relieve the pressure on some of our Reading girls. 2. To Emerson Batchelder we bequeath this pipe and soap, so he may always be able to find Bubbles. 3. To Jeanette Forbes we leave this contract with the Metropolitan Opera Company with the hope that she will be able to use it in the future. 4. Our parting gift to Mr. Sussmann is this book of up-to-date and extremely subtle jokes, which, if he is wise, he will study thoroughly. o. 1 o Coach Batchelder we leave our good wishes and a bottle of hair tonic to keep that thatch of his from growing gray over the dumb errors made by our teams. (). 1 o Barbara Kimball we leave a husband. She can take her pick. 7. To next year’s traffic force we bequeath these rubber-tire roller skates, so that they will be able to catch up with some of these fast juniors. 8. To Harold Zitzow we will this mustache for use in his future career as a radical. 9. To Richard Smith we leave this captivating rubber peanut in hopes that when he feels a yearning for a bile to eat, he may take it out and think of the times he had in German. 10. To Miss England we bequeath a special ex¬ clusive parking place, so that she won’t have to come to school so early in order to get one. 11. To Herb Richmond we leave this little chick with which he may start his chicken farm. 12. To Victorine St. Onge we leave this advice, “Beware of the wild-eyed dope who drives a Buick.” 13. To the school we leave a modern well-equip¬ ped torture chamber, so that the faculty can more easily break that indomitable sophomore spirit. 14. To Brendon Hoyt we bequeath this cap and bells, so that he may always remain in character. 15. To Robert Clinch we present this little book entitled “What I Know About Women.” 16. To Mr. Halpin, the school’s crusty old “batch,” we extend our express permission to get married. 17. To Dean Winchester we present this block of wood to butt his head against. 18. I o Richard Ruggles we leave this piece of string to tie around his finger, so that he will always remember not to forget his pencil. 19. Gazing into the distance through Mr. Suss- mann’s binoculars, we spy Fran and Jeanette, and decide to leave them alone. 20. We bequeath to the faculty, who have been our kind instructors, a lovely unbroken series of restful nights and peaceful dreams. 21. We will Johnnie Eisenhaure’s football shoes to George Powell hoping that he will fit them as well as John. 22. To I rene Goodwin we leave a pair of roller skates in order that she may travel to and from Medford more easily. 23. To Herbie Stark we leave this nut-cracker, so that he can crack his knuckles more easily. 24. To Miss Devaney we leave this date memoran¬ dum book, with which she can accommodate some of our enterprising sophomores. 25. To Richard Lyons we present this all-day sucker to keep him out of trouble. 26. To “Hokey Holden we bequeath this little monkey to remind him of his happy school days. 27. As a final contribution to the well being of our class, we have reserved for every male graduate who wants one a seat on the library wall, from which he can contemplate the world in all its beauty. Forty-seven The Pioneer Nineteen THIRTY - EIGHT Although this will has been drawn up with no in¬ tention of insult to any man or beast, we do hereby pro¬ claim to all those who might possibly meditate revenge that the authors, out of true consideration for their per¬ sonal safety, will go about well armed until after gradu¬ ation and will stoutly and courageously resist any attacks made on them by any outraged male or female. Robert Wakeling Malcolm McGann CLASS HISTORY Sophomore-Junior Years 1935—1937 The last position in anyone’s mind should be that of a Sophomore. As we recall, our class went in, in a big way, for noise, trouble, and ignorance. The biggest example of noise was our first class meeting in the gym. No one heard Miss Simon’s pleas for silence and order. It took President Van Horn’s booming oratory to make us shed tears and sheckles of sympathy for the poverty- stricken Sophomore Class. The social season was opened at the Sophomore Party in October. Beano and “Pinky” Ivester were, to our feeble memory, the chief entertainments. As Sophomores we were very enthusiastic over the football season with Franny Thornton and Earl Van Horn very promising and hustling material. We looked forward to our Senior year with these two lads as a nu¬ cleus for the team of 1937-1938. The Christmas holiday was especially refreshing in 1935, as we all so needed the rest before exams. Did three feet of snow stop us from taking those precious mid-years? It did not! Our shining faces, streaked with a little winter, presented themselves promptly at 8:15. (Nine tenths of us were richly rewarded for our con¬ stancy—very richly with D’s and F’s.) 1 hen spring swept the air, and everyone recovered his spirits. Baseball, tennis and golf kept us Sopho¬ mores well busied until May 15. This, my children, was the gala night of the Sophomore Hop. I his smashing event was passed off very well with the assistance of Irvin Brogan’s orchestra and many delectable refresh¬ ments. I hese are all really very pleasant memories, but, after all has been said and done, we were just com¬ mon ordinary childish Sophomores. At last! I he first big step toward graduation has been taken. A Junior is a very happy soul. All his Sophomore worries are behind him, and he doesn’t know what it is to he a Senior. If being reasonably studious is being successful, very well. But we often wonder. Our big social gesture as Juniors was the Christmas Dance, held the Friday before vacation. The small at¬ tendance put the overburdened Juniors hack in the red. 1 he greatest sport of the year w r as watching a few of our privileged classmates attempting to keep the tough Seniors and haughty Sophomores from skipping steps or from running in the corridors. I guess we’ll have to hand it to Captain Poland, though. He and his henchmen did keep the school pretty well under their thumbs. In May Mr. Halpin carried on an interesting series of lectures on how to fill the treasury for the Junior- Senior Reception. We met in the boys ' lunch room and the assembly hall interchangeably at all hours of the day. Finally, we reached the conclusion that if Presi¬ dent Colley would contribute his limousine, the rest of us would donate newspapers. The bargain seemed fair enough, and the anxious Seniors were appeased. Our problems for the future are now solved. If we can only sell newspapers with the energy that we did for last year’s Seniors, we’ll all have a car in the garage and a chicken in the pot. Peter Curl THE POLICE BLOTTER Senior Year Wednesday, September 8, 1937 157 individuals rounded up and returned to Read¬ ing High School—official prison for this town. Upon close inspection they turned out to be of a specie known as Seniors. Among them are certain specimens that are the only ones of their kind in captivity. President (that hardy perennial) the long-suffering John Colley, vice- president Elizabeth Barstow, secretary Doris Donegan, and Frank (“Silence is golden ) Davis are the officers in charge of the final act put on by the class of 1938. I he strain will probably be too much. Saturday, October 2, 1937 1 ootball has been underway for over a month and we are all set for the first game of the season at Ipswich. And did we make those clam-diggers dig. The rest of the season was not so successful as this first game, but the boys did well, and many turned out to support the team. Our captain, John Eisenhaure, Francis Thorn¬ ton, (Ill bet he loves that), Earl Van Horn, Edson King, Bud Merrill (the old stand-by), Roy White, Bud Wright, Bob Wakeling, Herb Stark, and Nellie Burbank were the outstanding Senior flashes, to say nothing of the promising material in the lower classes. Wednesday, November 25, 1937 At this annual pre-1 hanksgiving Day assembly, three Seniors, obviously of unsound mind, found them¬ selves shaking and quivering on the stage of what seemed to be a huge auditorium. They were not cheered by the presence of an equally unnerved Junior, Helen Connelly who was there on the same mission. Nat Kevin told us about her European trip, Helen Connelly related the aga ol a little boy s first day at school; and then came the crowning outrage—Jeannette Forbes’ rendition of The Highwayman,” by Alfred Noyes. The jury is still out on that one. Calmness has settled like a benediction on the class until now in February along come rumors of a carnival. Forty-eight The Pioneer Nineteen thirty-eight Right here and now, I want to give some good, sound advice to the lower-classmen, to wit: Never trust either the weatherman or the powers that be—they will double- cross you. This is a certainty. No matter which way the hand of fate moves, you will he cheated. This has been true for two years and I can see no reason why it shouldn l be true for at least two more. The only way to avoid this calamity is to manufacture your own snow and ice. The Class of ’38 is getting out its trade paper, “The Snow Manufacturer s Bulletin. This retails at 50 cents a copy. (See Mr. Fitzgerald.) In the meantime, Sargent’s are being honored by the majority of the class having its pictures taken there. The officials of the Department of Justice have already spoken for most of them. However, before your picture is eligible for the Rogues’ Gallery you must have your finger-prints taken to accompany the picture. This is absolutely essential. March 18, 1938 Comes the fatal night and all and sundry are seen directing their steps towards the Junior High School to see our play, “The Queen’s Husband.” We pay tribute to Mrs. Wiens for her excellent coaching and directing. Dean Winchester, Jeannette Forbes, Marjorie Rollins, and George Madden led the cast, with Ben Howe, Arthur Rees, Allen Boyd, Peter Curl, Daniel Barrett, Orville Poland, Harold Zitzow, Virginia Wellington, Mary Proncko, Malcolm McGann, and Ralph Pomeroy. To Herbert Carter, who substituted for George Madden when he was confined to his bed with nothing less than the mumps, we owe a vote of thanks. Monday, March 21, 1938 Hold your hats, keeds! You re about to hear who the geniuses among us are. Virginia Watson knows everything, William Richmond knows most everything, while George Madden and Peter Curl who walked off with Class and Faculty honors respectively, are definite¬ ly, as you can see, not the intelligentia. Tuesday, April 12, 1938 Money flowed like water on this day of grace when Mr. Fitzgerald collected for our rings. These afore¬ mentioned rings are very beautiful. They are also very expensive. I ll bet that Mr. Fitzgerald’s theme song for the next few days was, “If I Had the Wings of an Angel. Wednesday, April 13, 1938 Of all the class meeting, this was perhaps the most interesting one, apropos that great event—Graduation. Ah, Graduation, you come but once a year. Thank heaven! One of the principal issues evoked by this momentous occasion is the question of white vs. color for the girl’s dresses. No blood has been let yet, but any¬ thing can happen. On this same fateful day, a Senior Bulletin went around setting forth the chores of these hapless individuals who were placed on committees. I could tell you plenty about committees, but never mind. Friday, April 15, 1938 Baseball has started and Reading lost the opener to Watertown, the score being 11-1. However, as this is not a league game we are not dismayed, for we have Hoyt pitching, Roy White catching, Wakeling in right field, Jimmie Doucette on first base (How’s the Duchess, Jimmie?), Walter Doucette in left field, Donald White at shortstop, George (Mumpsie) Madden in the outfield, and Wilfred White in left field. Maybe I should call this “A Female Looks at Baseball. From a distance! Leaving the baseball team to continue on its own sweet way, and hoping that the class will do like-wise, I leave you as they say in French, “au revoir,” in Ger¬ man, “auf Wiedersehen,” in Italy, “arrivaderci,” and in Spanish, “adios, hasta otra vez. Good-bye until we meet again. Jeanette Forbes t orty-nine i ii e Pioneer i l I N E T E E N THIRTY-EIGHT HUMOR TiilS THING CALLED SWING—AND HOW IT GREW The ensuing discourse on the history of American Music in the past twenty years is intended primarily for those rugged individuals who are exponents of the new mania—namely, “this thing called swing.’ Robert Benchley recently gave a very intelligent talk on this vital subject in which he traced the history oi swing music from the beginning down to the present. II is contention is that swing music was originated by the japanese in the 13th century. Now this clearly shows that Mr. Benchley never heard of New Orleans, Louisi¬ ana, or even of Africa, to say nothing of Harlem. Swing music came into being about 100 years ago and was smuggled into this country in the triangular trade. The i 11 -effects from this importation can be compared only with automobiles, punny puns, and the double-feature movies. Heretofore, music which appealed to the common herd was known as jazz. But those days are gone for¬ ever. Yes, indeed. Today we have swing. Ah, but definitely. The difference between the two was never defined—probably for the very simple reason that no¬ body knows—Howsoever as that may be, jazz has be¬ come swing, and who’s the wiser. Some people will be¬ lieve anything. This is a very decided indication of a weakness for pink lemonade and flashy ties. To be a swing fan, you must enlarge your vocabu¬ lary. It’s absolute folly to attempt to be a swing fan unless you know the fundamentals of the game. The following few terms will get you over the hurdles until you have a chance to learn the ropes more thoroughly- cat—formerly a four legged feline, now a swing fan. jitterbug—nothing to do with the in¬ sect world. Now a glorified form of a doodler. ickey—a mental incompetent. Upon hearing swing music this specimen gives impression of intense pain on face. ’gator—originally alligator, but strip¬ ped of his rank because he had a kind heart and hated to eat the people he killed. jam session—slang term for Conti¬ nental breakfast. In the groove—Well, it’s one way of saying, “goin’ to town.” the downbeat—the dictionary gives six definitions of beat and three of down. Figure it out for yourself, hot—this dear reader, has nothing to do with the weather. corney—so called because a number of swing devotees in the corn fields started a revolution within the ranks, thus introducing a new style of new music. It would be best to take a few days to memorize these terms and then return for the second lesson in the appreciation of this new craze. However, time is short and this thing has got to end sooner or later, so we must rush on and do our best with our newfound knowledge. As my knowledge of what I was talking about ended about five minutes ago, we might as well call the whole thing off. Class is adjourned until I can think up some more nonsense for the next lesson. Here’s hoping you ' ll be seeing black notes in your sleep. Jeanette Forbes ’38 Girl Norma Kendall Barbara Kimball Virginia Watson Mary Proncko Jeanette Davis Virginia Watson Virginia Watson Irene Goodwin Virginia Watson Jeanette Forbes Ruth Hoyt Lillian Ivester Jeanette Davis Marjorie Morss Mary Barrett Irene Goodwin Natalie Kevin Lillian Ivester Lillian Arsenault Mava Classen Ann Robertson Muriel Kelly Marjorie Crosby Helene Ernst Lillian Ivester Lillian Arsenault Doris Donegan Norma Kendall Betty Higgins Doris Peterson Barbara Griffith Lillian Ivester CLASS ELECTIONS Title Most Popular Best Looking Joy of Faculty Bane of Faculty Ideal R. H. S.Student Most Ambitious Most Studious Best Athlete Most Likely to Succeed Wittiest Class Baby (age) Class Clown Best Natured Busiest Most Modest Most Versatile Most Original Noisiest Quietest Best Dancer Class Giggler Class Artist Junior Girl (Boy) Favorite Teacher Everybody’s Pal Most Bashful Most Respected Most Courteous Tallest Shortest Neatest Funniest Boy Francis Thornton Nelson Burbank Peter Curl Benjamin Howe! George Madden Orville Poland Peter Curl Francis Thornton Orville Poland Brendon Hoyt Richard Lyons Brendon Hoyt Nelson Burbank John Colley Frank Davis George Madden George Batten Brendon Hoyt Frank Davis Robert Clinch Donald Miller John Sawyer James Heselton Irmie Dixon Francis Thornton Russell Merrill Orville Pola nd Peter Curl Ralph Pomeroy George Hodgkins Buddy Wright Brendon Hoyt Elsie Putnam Herbert Richmond Fifty-one Portraits Oils Pastels OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS to the Class of 1938 READING HIGH SCHOOL SARGENT STUDIO, INC. 154 Boylston Street Boston, Massachusetts NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS Pre-legal Programs Applicants for the Massachusetts Bar examinations must have completed one- half of a regular college course before registering in a school of law. Persons qualified for admission may pursue pre-legal programs in North¬ eastern University. The day program is restricted to men; the evening program is available to both men and women. These programs prepare for admission to either the Day or Evening School of Law of Northeastern University. Applications for admission are now being received. Catalogs sent upon request. Use the coupon below. Please send me a catalog including the □ day pre-legal program Check here Name Address W w UNIVERSITY Co-educational COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS Day and evening classes. Cultural and pre-professional courses. A. B., B.S. and B.S. in Ed. degrees. COLLEGE OF JOURNALISM Evening classes taught by editor s, journalists and advertising men. B. S. in Journalism degree. COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Evening classes in Accounting, Banking, Finance and Business Management. B.S. in Business Administration degree. SUFFOLK LAW SCHOOL Day and evening divisions. Pre-legal courses for high school graduates. LL.B. degree, prepares for law practice. GRADUATE SCHOOL OF LAW Evening classes. LL.M. degree. Tuition in all departments $160 a year. For catalogues and information: Call Capitol 0555 or write to SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY 20 Derne Street Boston, Massachusetts v f « r ZOTOS $ 10.00 Lovely Permanents for White Hair A ' o machine—no electricity JAMAL $ 6.00 OTHER PERMANENTS $3 UP IDEAL BEAUTY SHOPPE Tel. Rea. 1669-M 191 Main St. Evening Appointments for Permanents NU CE MOUNTING A(« u.� A WLfkt. ' ottMl- CORNERS CTWjwBHwBtiS 4-TRANSPARENT T + SENIOR T REGULAR I• - JUNIOR These fam¬ ous corners will handle every thing from a pos¬ tage stamp to a large map, draw¬ ing, or pho¬ tograph. Popular for mounting snapshots on cards or in albums. Four styles, as shown above. In black, white, gray, green, red, sepia, ivory, gold, and silver. Transparent style is of crystal-clear cellulose. NuAce PHOTO HINGES allow prints to he mounted one above the other where album space must be saved. Handy for newspaper clippings or postcards. Ready folded. Just moisten and use. All styles retail 10c package (15c in Canada). Packed in effective display containers. Ask for sample packages and trade discounts. ACE ART CO. 12 Gould St. Reading, Mass. FRED F. SMITH, INC. W holesale and Retail Dealer in Lumber, Plumbing, and Heating Supplies Lime, Brick, Cement, and Sewer Pipe Builder’s Hardware of Every Description 25 - 37 Harnden St. Phone 0450 First National Bank of Reading The Commercial Bank oj the Community Compliments of ROCKPORT FISH MARKET IN THE SWIM TO WIN M ARI A YS BEAUTY SHOPPE All Branches of Beauty Culture PERMANENT WAVING A SPECIALTY 1 Pleasant St. Tel. Rea. 0116 CHARLES L. THORNDIKE Main St., Corner Woburn St. Family Shoe Store MEN’S FURNISHINGS LAMSON HUBBARD HATS ENNA JETTICK SHOES •V NEW TUXEDOS FOR HIRE READ WHITE FORMAL CLOTHES RENTED FOR ALL OCCASIONS 111 Summer St. Boston Woolworth Bldg., Providence, R. I. ADAMS COMPANY LADIES’ AND CHILDREN’S FURNISHINGS Haven St. Tel. Rea. I360-W Compliments of M. F. CHARLES DEALER IN SCHOOL SUPPLIES 610 Main St. BURDETT COLLEGE Courses for Young Men and Women Business Administration-Accounting Pace), Secretarial, Shorthand, Type vriting, Business, and Finishing courses. One and Two-Year Programs. Previous commercial training not required for entrance. Leading colleges represented in attendance. Students from different tates. Write or telephone for Day or Evening Catalog 6 Oik near BEGINS IN SEPTEMBER ten 156 STUART STREET, BOSTON Off. BUSINESS TRAINING needed to MAKE THE RIGHT START MOVE STEADiLY FORWARD ACHIEVE SUCCESS (with a Degree Plan for those who wish it) and in addition VOCATIONAL COUNSEL AND PLACEMENT SERVICE Telephone HANccck 6300 1 BELLS BARBER SHOP L A modern and sanitary barber shop F giving prompt and courteous service. ► 11 Harnden Street EFFIE’S BEAUTY SALON 155 Haven St. Reading ► EDGERLEY BESSOM EDWARD LAPPIN PLUMBING - HEATING - GAS FITTING “ FUNERAL SERVICE r Frank Lee Edgerley, Prop. Agent for Malden Melrose Gas Co. , L Funeral Home 743 Main St. Reading, Mass. 583 Main St. Reading, Mass. k Telephone Reading 0105 Tel. Rea. 0461 Res. Tel. Rea. 1297-J 1 The Willis Pharmacy, Inc. . . i Established in 1855 SERVICE AM) QUALITY MERCHANDISE Hi-Y CLUB What you are to be, you are now becoming. PRENTISS PARKER, INC. W. H. WIGHTMAN CO. INSURANCE Reading Office Boston Office Masonic Block 40 Broad St. Tel. Rea. 0249 - 0822 Tel. Hub. 7880 Congratulations to the Class of 1938 of the Reading High School May Success, Happiness and Prosperity Attend Your Every Effort” THE READING CHRONICLE Serving the best interests of Reading for 68 years 531 Main St. Telephone 0155 Printers of The Pioneer KENNEDY’S Under Grad-Shop Because “good taste” constitutes “good dress and because this ideal is reflected in all of our Under-Grad offerings, Kennedy’s has won a reputation for making “best dressers of high and prep school men. ENNEDY ' S SUMMER AND HAWLEY GRATTAN Catering For All Occasions WEDDINGS - SCHOOL PARTIES - RECEPTIONS - PICNICS Telephone Crystal 1023 for Menus and Prices. 57 Albion Street Wakefield, Mass. ' READING SHOE REPAIR RANGE OIL FUEL OIL ' For men we offer: BOSTONIAN — NUNN BUSH CO-OPERATIVE SHOES All our shoe repair work guaranteed. W. R. VanHorn Tel. Rea. 1121 I C E Simi Gregori Austin’s Block COAL WOOD COKE ' L. G. Balfour Company Attleboro, Massachusetts CLASS RINGS COMMENCEMENT INVITATIONS DIPLOMAS - CUPS - MEDALS - TROPHIES Jeweler to the Senior Class of Reading High School Representative, Nan Lee 234 Boylston St. Boston, Mass. THE ASHENDEN SISTERS SCHOOL OF DANCING AND DRAMATICS ► All types of dancing including ► ballroom assemblies Reading Studio Masonic Building , Tel. Crystal 1826 MOLLIE S BEAUTY SALON j 15 Harnden St. Reading Sq. 1 Telephone 1594 , We specialize in all kinds o f beauty culture. PERMANENTS $3.00 UP j Open evenings for permanent wave appointments. ► ► VILLAGE MOTORS, INC. 4 PACKARD SALES AND SERVICE C. Irwin Williams ' 452 Main St., Reading Tel. Reading 0340 , 4 ► MERRICK’S PHARMACY Reading Square Phones 0299 - 0607 TRY OUR HOME MADE ICE CREAM the richest, smoothest, most delicious ice cream you ever tasted. ► , A Variety of Flavors Registered Pharmacist ► i MARY ANN’S SHOP 4 LADIES’ APPAREL Reading Square ► Tots Teens Toggery Shoppe ► MISSES WEARING APPAREL ► ’ FORMAL GOWNS S5.98 - $8.98 . 187 Haven St. Tel. 0586 Quality Merchandise Courteous Service Fair Prices « HOOKIE’S AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE ‘Everything for the Car.” Cor. High and Chute Sts. Tel. 0267 ■� � ■ v AMERICA IS MODERNIZING ELECTRICALLY! When the average householder thinks of modernizing he thinks of electrical improvements,—of more adequate wiring and lighting, of a more completely elec¬ trified kitchen and laundry, and the installation of more electrical conveniences throughout the entire house. That’s why, in 1937— Each month — more than 34,000 American housewives changed to electric cookery. Each month — improved, electric refrigeration was brought to more than 190,000 homes. Each month — more than 26,000 families installed electrically controlled or operated heating plants. Each month — an average of 100,000 homes improved lighting conditions by the installation of I. E. S. ‘’Better Light—Better Sight Lamps.” Each month — more than 136,000 families electrified their home laundry equipment by the addition of an electric washing machine or ironing machine, or both. Each month — these and thousands of other American homes were improved and modernized by the addition of electrical appliances and equipment as people found there is economy as well as luxury in “modernizing electrically.” For over a quarter of a century the Reading Municipal Light Department has advocated adequate home electrification . . . has sponsored electrical improvements and developments to raise the standards of living. READING MUNICIPAL LIGHT DEPT. READING, MASSACHUSETTS . T™ Jl Is Essential to Success j t Many a success or failure can be directly attributed to THRIFT or its lack. Lay the foundation for success by opening a Savings Account at this Savings Bank . . . . and make it the keystone to your future security and happiness. T H R I F MECHANICS SAVINGS BANK 643 Main Street Reading, Massachusetts Established 1891 HOW TO ACCUMULATE MONEY Many people find it difficult to accumulate much money through saving. Usually these people have no definite plan for saving. However, when they adopt SYSTEMATIC SAVING through our Serial Saving Shares they begin to succeed. These shares require the saving of definite amounts regularly each month. It is this regular saving, plus compound dividends which makes money accumulate in a surprisingly short period of time. If you have never tried our plan of saving, why put off starting your way to successful saving any longer? Take out one or more shares in our present series and save SI monthly per share. MAY SERIES STILL ON SALE READING CO-OPERATIVE BANK 643 Main Street Reading, Massachusetts NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY College of Liberal Arts Offers a broad program of college subjects serving as a foundation for the understanding of modern culture, social relations, and technical achievement. The purpose of this program is to give the student a liberal and cultural edu¬ cation and a vocational competence which fits him to enter some specif ic type of useful employment. College of Business Administration Offers a college program with broad and thorough training in the prin¬ ciples of business with specialization in ACCOUNTING, BANKING AND FINANCE, or BUSINESS MANAGEMENT. Modern methods of instruction, including lectures, solution of business problems, class discussions, professional talks by business executives, and motion pictures of manufacturing processes, are used. College of Engineering Provides complete college programs in Engineering with professional courses in the fields of CIVIL, MECHANICAL (WITH DIESEL, AERONAU¬ TICAL and AIR CONDITIONING OPTIONS), ELECTRICAL, CHEMICAL, INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING, and ENGINEERING ADMINISTRATION. General engineering courses are pursued during the freshman year; thus the student need not make a final decision as to the branch of engineering in which he wishes to specialize until the beginning of the sophomore year. Co-operative Plan The Co-operative Plan, which is available to upperclassmen in all courses, prov ides for a combination of practical industrial experience with classroom instruction. Under this plan the student is able to earn a portion of his school expenses as well as to make business contacts which prove valuable in later years. Degrees Awarded Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Science For catalog or further information write to: � ' MILTON J. SCHLAGENHAUF, Director of Admissions NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS READING PUBLIC LIBRARY READING, MASSACHUSETTS YVBBCTTj The Pioneer Reading High School Reading, Massachusetts GRADUATION NUMBER JUNE NINETEEN THIRTY NINE READING READING, Pf ipt The Pioneer Board Editor-in-Chiej Richard Childs W rite-ups Ruth Pollitz, Chairman Gordon Abbott Everett Brown Kenyon Hicks Marjorie Jewett Newell Mackenzie Eleanor Madden Barbara Marshall Mary Norton Myles O’Donnell Irene Sztucinski Catherine Tebeau News Editor John Hilchey Athletic Editor Dorothy Macmann Frank Weeks Exchange Editor Polly Stembridge Art Editor Bette Merrill Photographic Editor Richard Knudson Business Managers Richard Stratton, Chairman Linda Twombly Gilbert Camp ’40 Carleton Adams ’40 Donald Whitford ’41 T ypist Dorothy I. Doucette Faculty Advisers Miss Devaney — Literary Miss MacIver — Typing Mr. Halpin — Business Mr. Kibbee— Art MSB Dedication We dedicate this issue of the Pioneer to Reading and to the three centuries of its growth—to our town, whose many blessings we enjoy, and to the generations of stalwart men who have through these three centuries built Reading to what it is today. READING PUBLIC LIBRARY’ READING, MASSACHUSt TfS EDITORIALS OUR YANKEE HERITAGE Three hundred years ago, in September, the Massa¬ chusetts General Court granted the Town of Lynn land for an inland plantation. This parcel of land was known as Lynn Village and consisted of Reading, North Read¬ ing, Wilmington, Wakefield, and Stoneham. These towns gradually became separate from each other over a period of two hundred years. Of these facts every true Read- ingite is well aware. The actual history is not what is important, but the period that the three centuries cover¬ ed is worth pondering. From nine years after the Puri¬ tans’ advent to the present day—and still going strong! Every one of these years has added something to Read¬ ing, as rightly it should. Through these three centuries, men of Reading have fought for what they thought was right. First, they warred against the redskin for pos¬ session of their homes; then, for their own personal liberty in all things; next, against foreign domination of home and right of way on the high seas; five times in all have they gone to fight for what, according to their beliefs, was right. These three centuries have seen Read¬ ing progressing through all the phases that have in¬ fluenced every New England town. We are proud to call Reading a “typical New England town.” The neat white meeting-house at the head of the common and our broad elm-shaded streets lined with well-kept homes of many architectural periods are only two characteristics of such towns. Our town meetings are an institution that has survived most of the three centuries of our existence. The meeting-house and library are symbols of our cul¬ tural heritage, which is hv no means insignificant. The large colonial farmhouse is symbolic of a day gone by when the great majority of our forefathers were farmers. Reading has a heritage to be cherished. We have this wonderful background and heritage, granted—but what are we going to give in return? When confronted with a question like that, a true Yankee would think of “swappinY So, let us do that; let’s find a suitable return for such a great inheritance, and, more than incidentally, for the superb education given us, the playgrounds at our disposal, the many advantages unique to our New England. The best return we can give to Reading is the manifestation of an active interest in our town and in its government; that is the least we can do, and it can mean so much in making the years of our residence contribute something to the advancement of our town. This seems a fair “swap”. But, if this is to be sufficient, it means more than mere, mute attendance at town meetings of the future. Many of the future gen¬ erations have shown enough interest in the government of our town to advance it through three centuries to the position it fills today. They had time enough to work and work hard. They even had time to fight for home and country. If it was possible in time past, why can’t we spare the time when we have by far more leisure than ever they dreamed of? We can, and we must, for, in these troublous days, interest in town government will aid greatly in preserving our democracy. This is the restriction on our heritage. When it is time for us to pass on this heritage, may we have added materially and spiritually to it, and may our posterity be as proud as we of possessing it. May Reading march toward Utopia with our aid as respected citizens, as we soon shall be! Richard Childs ’39 MISQUOTED YOUTH As Seniors, we are this year completing our formal, free education. Many of us will go no further in a scho¬ lastic manner. For the past twelve years, the people of Reading have paid taxes in order that we might be ready, when the time arrived, to assume the responsibili¬ ties of citizens of the community. Yet several times we have heard a remark such as “It is a waste of money!” or “That modern generation! What is the world coming to?” It is we to whom they refer. They are questioning our ability to carry on—our worth as their successors— and they have a right to question it. There must be some good in everything! Yes, this is true, and in us, the youth of today, there is much good. It is encouraging to us, therefore, that there are both men and women who maintain that there never was such a fine generation as the present one. These are the ones who can help us most in our future lives. In this class we find teachers, clergymen, and many business men who are watching us with the eyes of prospective employers. In us they have placed implicit faith, and Continued on Page 28 T hree THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS Richard Knudson President If you think the department stores are busy during the Christmas rush, you should take a look at “Dick”. Our class president is easily one of the busiest persons for miles around. Whether planning the County Fair or straightening out the graduation picture situation, he has been up to his neck in work. “Dick” has been a member of Hi-Y, the Service Squad, the soccer team, the Pioneer staff and DeMolay—to mention only a few activities. Fencing and drawing take up what little spare time he has. His ambition is to see the world at peace, which is a worthy one for all of us. Dick pursues the Fine Arts Course, intends to become a surgeon, and is one of our probable P. G’s. Ruth Pollitz Ruth—or “Bunny” to her closet friends —has been one of our most active and capable classmates. In her sophomore year she lead the class as president and this year has been keeping up the good work as vice- president. Ruth has just been elected our valedictorian and al¬ so president of the Junior Woman’s Club. Her ambition is to be a success. We’d say she hasn’t far to go, wouldn’t you? “Ruthie” is going to travel south this summer but she’ll be back next fall to attend B. U. Business School with a wonderful tan, a southern accent, and maybe a few lucky southerners. V ice-President Helen Connelly Secretary Our able class sec¬ retary confesses that she wants to be somebody and own a sport roadster. Dur¬ ing her days at R. H. S. Helen has been very busy both in and out of school This year she filled the office of Junior Woman’s Club Presi¬ dent, and for the past three years has been our hard-w o r k i n g drum major. Next year she’s going to some junior college, but we know that that certain junior will wait. Moe”, when you get that car, come around and give us all a ride. Your personality has been a bright spot, so keep smiling! Marjorie Crosby Treasurer For three years “Margie”, our carni¬ val queen, has been an exceedingly popu¬ lar member of the class of ’39. She is known as a good sport, and has par¬ ticipated in every thing Miss Nichols has charge of—hock¬ ey, basketball, bowl¬ ing, swimming, ten¬ nis, and baseball. Re¬ cently she has gained the monica “Tizzie- Lish”, a title which will forever remind us of her part in one memorable assembly program. This summer she is going to have a good time, and in the fall she will attend Sargent’s to prepare for a position as physical instructor. With this as her chosen career, there can be no doubt as to “Margie’s” success. Four 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER Gordon Abbott “Scratch’’ is going to sail the seven seas this summer and work on board ship after graduation. He belongs to the Vineyard Haven Golf Club at Martha’s Vineyard. In school he was a member of Hi-Y and made us laugh at his every entrance as the butler in the senior play. “Scratch” was also ably cast as a member of the Constitu¬ tional Play written by Mr. Dixon. More recently he has been on the write-up staff of the Pioneer. Smooth sailing, “Scratch”. Edward Arsenault This summer after graduation “Iggy” is going to join the three C ' s. He is a quiet fellow, but he is always there. Football is his favorite sport and that is what he has liked most in high school. His best friend, so he says, is his horse. Maybe he likes to play Lone Ranger, as his favorite pastime out of school is seeing western thrill¬ ers. “Hi-yo, Silver”! Mildred Arsenault “Milly is that good humored, neat brunette who gets along with every¬ one. Her ambition is to be an expert hairdresser. She has enjoyed practical arts and sewing most in school. She says that she detests snobbish people, and “Milly” practices what she preach¬ es, because she is anything but a snob. Richard Austin “Rich” is one of the Three Musket¬ eers, the other two being, of course, Blaisdell and Dacey. Almost every¬ where we go, we bump into one of them, if not all three. Rich” is an officer in Demolay. He is also an honorary member of Rotary, and if you ask him about it, he’ll go into de¬ tails about that last chicken dinner— especially if you ' re hungry. This sum¬ mer “Austie” will be at his Maine camp, where he can enjoy both sailing and swimming. Xext year he will take a P. G. before going on for higher education. “Rich loves to ski, and all who went on the winter carnival can testify to his efficiency. Happy landings! Marion Bassett Marion Bassett, whose very worthy ambition is to be a success, aspires to become a nurse, but for the present hopes just to get a job. Besides cook¬ ing and mathematics, Marion enjoys swimming, hockey, basketball, and ten¬ nis and heartily dislikes people who laugh when they are not supposed to. She is a girl scout and an enthusiastic member of the Epworth League. Benjamin Beaudry Who s the fellow who hauls down canned goods in Martin’s Store on the busiest days ? Yes it’s “Ben”. hile “Ben” likes to go riding in a junky model A, boating, and hunting, he also applies himself to the Compre¬ hensive Course, as he plans to attend Mt. Hermon next year. In the fall we found him at left half-back on the soccer team, and in the warmer days on the tennis courts wearing down some hapless opponent. He’s been a member of Hi-Y and DeMolay. His favorite food, of all things, is raw oys¬ ters! What a man! Keep going “Ben”, and we’ll see you in the Hall of Fame. Edward Beaudry Good luck to “Ed”, alias “Budry”, another one—and there are several of us—whose ambition is to be a million¬ aire. He wants to be a mariner; that’s a good way to save money, but it won’t give him much time to indulge in his favorite ' sport, dancing. “Ed’s” pet peeve is being called a “hick”. If he goes to sea, that will be changed to “salt”, anyway. Austin Bennett Gene Kruper had better watch him- helf or he will be minus a job. “Austie” is out to beat him or at least be a good second, and just to practice he has been drumming all through school in various orchestras. “Austie’s” fav¬ orite subject has been art, and now and then his has been the envied task of “whitewashing” R. H. S. statuary. He is a member of Hi-Y. His favorite pastime is taking life easy and going to the movies—“if it’s a comedy”. Five THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 Annette Benton “Nan” Benton is seldom seen around Reading High without her shorthand notebook and pencil. This augurs well for “Nan’s” future success, as she hopes to be private secretary to a bank president some day. People who know 7 definitely like that always get what they want, “Nan”! Cleveland Blaisdell, Jr. “Pop” is a Demolay member and of¬ ficer, and he also takes an active part in baseball. His ambition is to start of?—right from school—with a salary of fifty dollars a week and a pretty blonde secr etary—or is it brunette, “Junie”? We’ve discovered that he’s hard to please; he hates to get up in the morning and to go to bed at night. (Suggestion: Be a night watchman.) He has been invaluable in co-operating to make dances and other social func¬ tions successful. Good luck, “Pop , in all you may undertake. Albert Blasi “Al” Blasi is that boy with the hot trumpet. “Al” is going to take a va¬ cation this summer to recuperate from his school work and then his great ambition is to play first trumpet in the navy band. All through high school, “Al” has played in both the orchestra and band. Just watch this boy; we feel sure that he’ll go places and do things! Edward Bradley “Ed” is the tall, silent, blonde fellow 7 who roars toward parts north in a black Chevrolet almost every after¬ noon. “Ed” is a far-sighted fellow, as he wants to become a millionaire. Next year he will be hurling mainsails when he attends the Massachusetts Nautical School. Appropriately enough, fishing is his hobby. Hope the going isn’t too rough, and oceans of luck to you, “Ed”! Francis Brennan “Punchy” has been a star athlete at old R. H. S., having been one of Coach Holgerson’s regular ends on the foot¬ ball squad and a flashy backstop on the diamond. “Punchy” is also a swell basketball and soccer player, but his favorite sport is hockey. If Reading High did not accomplish anything else, it surely did cure “Punchy” of being bashful in the presence of girls. Here’s to the Boston Bruins’ future star. Claire Brigham Claire doesn’t know yet what she wants to do, so perhaps Reading High School will be fortunate enough to have her for still one more year. She is a member of the Junior Woman’s Club and indulges in dancing and driv¬ ing as her favorite pastimes. (My, there’s been a regular banding to¬ gether of girls learning to drive. So far, Claire has only stalled once, thus holding up traffic.) Her pet peeve is oral reports, and her hobby—collecting souvenirs. Because Claire’s diminutive height has been no handicap, the ad¬ monition to keep growing is rather out of place. So then, Claire, to you we wish a happy career. Edith Brown This is “Edie”, the moderate jitter¬ bug, w 7 ho loves classical music and hopes to attend at least one opera dur¬ ing her lifetime. She has a mania for studying the expressions in people’s eyes! She has a natural antipathy toward gum snappers and knuckle crackers. But then, who hasn’t? Pearl Atkinson’s Modeling School will be honored with her attendance next y ear, for her ambition is to be a pho¬ tographer’s model. With that smile, “Edie”, your future success is assured. Everett Brown “Brownie” is definitely a ladies’ man. Am I right, Bette, and the one hun¬ dred others? In fact, he says that girls have been the only source of his enjoyment besides bookkeeping in this school. Yet he claims that his best friend is his dog. Anyway, when he isn’t amusing his dog he likes to play hockey. Someday we shall all be call¬ ing on “Brownie” to come in and straighten out our accounts, as he is planning to be a certified public ac¬ countant. Six 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER Alfred Burbine “Burp” is one of Coach Althoff ' s mainstays on the soccer squad, and take it from us he is good. Burp also is quite a tennis player, often be¬ ing found at “Birchie” during the sum¬ mer months. He is one of the school’s better dancers; every lunch period has found him jitterbuggin’ with a certain young lady. It’s getting so “Burp even dances while he works! Fred Burrows “F. J.” is a member of the squad of brave ones who hold down the Ac¬ counting Course, as his ambition is to become a successful salesman. He seems to be well on the way toward his goal, having already held several jobs in that capacity. He is a member of the Service Squad, enjoys history and historical movies, and collects coins (as well as girls)—perhaps to further his accounting knowledge. He enjoys all sports, especially hockey. Also he says (quote) “I love custard pie!” We’re with you, Fred, and when we see you on the road, or behind the counter, we won’t see you selling those custard pies! Harriett Cahill Upon graduating, Harriett intends to take a good vacation and then go to a business school, for both of which she has been preparing for some time. Deep down in Harriett’s heart, how¬ ever, is a secret gnawing ambition to become a mannequin. Good luck to you, Harriett. Marion Call Marion’s high ambition is to be suc¬ cessful in whatever she does. She in¬ tends to become a dietician, but at present she is more interested in tak¬ ing a vacation. Be on the lookout for this red head to come whizzing by on her bicycle this summer as she heads for her favorite swimming pool. Marion’s special hobbies are dancing and collecting insects and butterflies. Oh, yes, Marion is called “Strawber¬ ries , because she has a weakness for strawberry shortcake. Carmela Cannuli Carmela, better known as “Millie”, is a very vivacious young lady. “Mil¬ lie’s future is very uncertain perhaps because of a certain young man who is never far away. Sleeping and danc¬ ing are her favorite pastimes. One of her pet peeves is being called on when she’s unprepared. We all sympathize with Carmela on that point! Norma Charles “Normie” is one of our most ambi¬ tious young ladies, for after taking a P. G. next year, she plans to go to Radcliffe College. She wants to be— of all things—a school teacher. Her favorite subject is French and inciden¬ tally she is very artistically minded. “Normie” is another one of those Rainbow girls. Her favorite hobby is collecting books and her principal pas¬ time is horseback riding. Her ambi¬ tion is to write a book. We shall be looking to you, “Normie”, to be the future Pulitzer prize winner. Richard Childs Hail to the jilted lover of the senior play, but don’t let it bother you, “Dick”. After all it’s only your first affair (we hope). Also, would you please tell us what you mean by saying that your hobby is watching people ? Or did we get the wrong idea? Next year Dick hopes to go to college or take a post graduate course, but at the present Hi-Y, Demolay, a paper route, Student Council (of which he is president), tennis, and the editorship of the Pioneer keep him quite busy! We know that your personality will make you a great success, Richard. Lloyd Chisho lm Lloyd is one of our chums from the northern regions. He has been the efficient president of the Service Squad, and a member of Student Council as well as Hi-Y. What with reading, building boat and airplane models, and playing baseball and football, he’s been kept pretty busy. Lloyd’s ambition is to become a successful aviator, al¬ though right now he hopes to work in the Navy Yard next year. Remem¬ ber R. H. S., and don’t fly too high, Lloyd! Seven THE PIONEER Reading High School 1939 Louise Clarke “Wesie , a member of Rainbow, is one of the few courageous girls that follow the bookkeeping course. Her favorite subject is accounting. Ap¬ propriately enough, she intends to be¬ come a bookkeeper or an accountant. An all-round sportswoman, she likes swimming, tennis, skiing and skating. Her hobby is collecting toy animals. Any special variety, “Twinie”? Marjorie Clarke “Margie”, another Rainbow girl, is one of our most brilliant classmates, ranking fifth on our honor parade. Her favorite subject is math and her favorite pastime is reading. And—she dislikes exams. Not unusual, “Twin¬ ie”! She plans to return to take a post graduate course. Like her twin, she excels in all sports. She says that her pet peeve is Harvard haircuts. That doesn’t apply to everyone does it, “Margie”? Dorothy Colburne “Dee” is that little blonde bombshell who came into our midst this year from Everett, much to the pleasure of us all. (Eh, boys?) Her pet peeve, she says, is being stared at, but how can we help it if we watch her toting messages for Mrs. Tilton and wish that we were out of class, too. She plans to follow the great white parade and be a good nurse. We’re sure you’ll make the grade, “Dee”! Kenneth Coombs Yes, Sir! Here conies “Boris”. This fellow dotes on Frankenstein pictures. He and “Al” Dinsmore are those two forms who wrestle each other all over the building—just for the exercise, if you please. “Boris” also plays tennis; he threatens to do so all summer, but we doubt it. He has safely tucked away the Comprehensive Course in his brain—all but Cp 3. The Service Squad and Hi-Y have claimed him as a member. Having no definite ambi¬ tion in sight, he will trod the boards of R. H. S- again next year to take a P. G. course. See you then, “Boris”. Charles Dacey “Dick”, who also answers to the appellation of “Li’l Abner”, will have to get her (you tell us who her” is) used to his moods. He could spend from now until doomsday dancing, but his ambition is to have a business of his own and to be a good citizen. He is on the baseball, and soccer squads and his favorite sport is basketball, but his pet aversion is sports (basket¬ ball must be the exception!) Let us hope that you are another Rocke¬ feller, “Dick”. Claire Delong “Snookie” has many manias, clubs and driving being among them. She regularly goes to Junior VVoman’s Club meetings—probably so that she can have fun with the gang at Tedd’s afterwards! She intends to become a “girl in white”, and in preparation will go to the Malden Hospital next year. We ' re all wishing only the best for you in the future, “Snookie”, and may your career be most interesting. Dorothy Doucette “Click! Click!” Yes, you guessed it. It’s “Dottie’s” flying fingers at the typewriter. She is the Pioneer typist and Miss Maclver’s right hand man. Her ambition is to be a secretary. Her favorite pastime is listening to Guy Lombardo, but she also enjoys tennis, swimming, and hiking. Sue can cook, too. That doesn’t mean a thing, boys— she cooks only for Daddy- isn ' t that right “Dotty”? Eva Doucette Eva’s ambition is to become a suc¬ cess ip business, and she is studying to become a typist. She likes to col¬ lect souvenirs, and her pet aversion is snobbish people. (Who blames her?) Eva tells us that she is the treasurer of a sewing club which has occupied much of the time that she hasn’t de¬ voted to homework. 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER Phyllis Downs “Phil” is our cheery, curly headed classmate who has industriously fol¬ lowed a secretarial course. Her fav¬ orite subject is bookkeeping and her hobby—strangely enough—is studying for tests. Next year, “Phil” plans to attend school that she may fulfill her ambition to be a private secretary. Pauline Eames Oddly enough, here is one person who really seems to enjoy studying, and her report card is proof of her successful efforts. “Polly” has been taking stenography and plans to con¬ tinue her studies next year in a Bos¬ ton business school. She enjoys danc¬ ing, and her hobby is certainly clothes. Everyone knows that Polly’s father is Chief of the Fire Department, but turning in false alarms will not bring “Polly”, so don’t indulge. To Pauline we give best wishes for a most suc¬ cessful future. Dorothy Evans We’ll all remember “Dot” as cashier in the cafeteria and she says that she enjoyed her job. She recently was high scorer in a competitive business examination and won a scholarship to the Fisher Business School, where she will train to be a private secretary. “Dot” is another one of those people who plan to catch up on their sleep this summer. (Planning is as far as it gets!) Thirza Fisher “Fish” is the young lady we often see in the presence of “Swede” John¬ son, whose wise-cracks have amused more than one of us. Fish” is one of those few r of us who do not believe in harboring peeves. She has taken the business course and hopes present¬ ly to obtain a good position as typist. Ever since she succeeded in getting her license, driving has been her hobby and pastime. Dorothy Foster Next year “Dot” is going to Bur- dett’s to develop her abilities as a stenographer. In preparation for long hours of study, she is going to New Hampshire for a long rest this summer. “Dot” says that her friends have given her the most enjoyment in school. May Burdett’s turn out the best stenogra¬ pher ever! Marjorie Gale “Marge”, or “Faith”, is that popular dark-haired girl who has so cleverly decorated our hall for dances and banquets. She has reached the high office of “Faith” in Rainbow and is the corresponding secretary of Junior Woman’s Club (a very capable one, too). She is headed for New England Art School next year. Her hobby is collecting autographs, and her ambi¬ tion is to be a fashion designer in a big store. We’ll be watching for some of your creations on Fifth Avenue, “Marge”. Dorothy Galvin Here’s Dorothy, otherwise known as “Shorty”. She has lent her vocal strength to Glee Club for the past three years. Her ambition right now is to be a good housewife; could this be because of a certain Jimmy? Alice Gill “Calling Dr. Gill! Calling Dr. Gill!” Yes, our versatile, attractive blonde Alice is going to college to become a doctor. She enjoys skating, basket¬ ball, and dancing. “Gillie’s” ambition is to travel. Mixing business with pleasure, Alice? Let us know, “Gillie”, when you open your office. Nine THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 Mildred Gill Mildred, or “Shorty”, is the tiny member of our class. Her ambition is to own a house with a swimming pool where she can indulge in her favorite sport to her heart ' s content. Mildred likes historical movies, but she dislikes history(?). She has enjoyed shorthand and lunch period most dur¬ ing high school. Where does “the little one” store all her energy? Carl Gilman “Gilly”, who is another of our prob¬ able P. G.’s, wants to be come a mech¬ anic. He would make a good one, as he frequently tinkers with the family car. He was captain this season of the soccer team and broke up many of the opponents’ rushes with his long, hard kicks. (Remember Tufts?) He indulges in tennis and baseball and goes for fishing in a big way. On Tuesday nights he has enjoyed Hi-Y; he has also been a member of the Student Council. On any other night he’s seen traveling toward Elliot Street! “Hold tight” that wrench, Carl, and we’ll be seeing you! Marion Goodridge “Goody” is one of those cheerful souls who go singing through life. She lends her voice to Glee Club and in¬ cidentally she’s a gifted whistler. She gave a helping hand to the senior play by being on the properties com¬ mittee. “Goody” is an active member of Rainbow. Her ambition is to be a brain surgeon, but she is training to become a dietician. She enjoys bowl¬ ing, swimming, and collecting minia¬ ture dogs. R. H. S. won’t be deprived of her bright smile and cheery nature next year, for she plans to come back for a P. G. Long may you smile, “Goody”! Lawrence Goodwin “Larry” is a quiet but definite swing fan; that is, a jitterbug minus the jitters. He collects phonograph rec ords and greatly enjoys dancing, es¬ pecially at lunch time. “Larry” is a very serious person withal and has two worthy ambitions : to increase his self respect (get a job) and to stay out of war. May you get that job this summer and also renew that beau¬ tiful tan! Warren Goodwin “Lanky” is our tall, good-looking young man who dislikes having people ask questions, which probably accounts for his office mania”. (Or don ' t you follow us?) He likes driving perhaps better than anything else, but he does enjoy a good game of basebali. We all hope that you may follow your ambi¬ tion, “Lanky”, and travel not only around but all over the w’orld. Doris Gray “Dorsey wants to be a dietician and intends to take a post graduate course in Bath, Maine, along that line. She likes sewing and aviation but detests runs in stockings and rainy weather. “Dorsey” goes in for most sports but prefers swimming. Best wishes for happiness and success, “Dorsey”, in your new home in Maine. Marion Gray Here ccmes the lovable brat of the Senior Play. To those who know her, that cheery grin is a valuable asset. Marion is a nice little basketball play¬ er and has been one of our Glee Club members for some time. Next year she is planning to be a post graduate and after that has hopes of becoming a private secretary. With all that vi¬ tality and pep stored up in one small package, she’s sure to get pi ices. Nice going, Marion. Milton Gray “Junie” is going to be an aviator and most of us will agree that he is getting excellent training on the “take off” with that black and white car he drives around in—or rather on. “Junie” i one of our funnier wisecrackers. He’s been a member of DeMolay and one of Miss Zimmermann ' s favorite pupils. Attention, Corporal Gray! Ten 19 3 9 Rending High School THE PIONEER Edward Greenlaw “Doc Gogo” is our famous ex-in¬ ventor who has sold every thing from Christmas cards to Barchy Water. He has the ambition to become a business executive, and the next few years will see him in the business department of Boston College, with a year or two of Harvard afterward. “Doc” is a great tennis player and captain of this year’s tennis team, but he enjoys skiing bet¬ ter than anything else. Here’s wishing success to another great crackpot in this world. Beatrice Griffin “Bea” is a girl with laughing blue eyes. They beam at everyone, f.r she is very good natured. We are sure that she will succeed as a secretary. “Bea ' has enjoyed vacation week and lunch periods best in school and—you guessed it—homework least. Good luck, “Bea”. Gladys Hall What is that terrible commotion we hear com.ng from room 3? Oh! it’s only “Laddie” buzzing away. She en¬ joys raising cain and aggravating the teachers. An all-around sportswoman, she likes dancing, aquaplaning, and horseback riding—but her favorite pastime is talking. “Laddie” writes very clever short stories in her spare time. My, but it certainly is going to be quiet around here next year when she leaves to become a stenographer. She wants to own a dude ranch some¬ day because she loves dogs and horses, w e’ll be visiting you, “Laddie”. Dorothy Harrow “Dot” is the dark-haired, bright-eyed little miss whom we know as a fiddler and an ivory tickler. She is a mem¬ ber of the R. H. S. Orchestra and of the Civic Symphony Orchestra. Her ambiti n is to be a concert violinist and pianist. “Dot” belongs to the Junior Woman’s Club. By the way. we wonder how certain members of the ’39 traffic squad will get along without her. She plans to go to the New England Conservatory next year. We ' ll be listening, “Dot”. Aileen Herrick Aileen specializes in art, because her aim is interior decorating. She will decorate the interior of some home nicely some day, don’t you think? Aileen detests homework, but she does have a favorite subject—Problems of Democracy. Try to figure that out. Pickles also hold a strange fascination for her, and she can eat them by the gallon. Aileen can do some good imi¬ tations, but she has kept them a se¬ cret during her high school years. She likes to act, but she doesn’t put on acts. Good luck to a grand friend. Olivia Hersom “Livie” is a lively lady who wants only to make good use of her secre¬ tarial training by obtaining a good job. She is a member of the Rainbow Girls and the Junior Woman ’s Club. She likes to go shopping in Filene’s basement with “Norton”. Her favorite sport is bowling, and guess what her pastime is—sleeping. That must be the reason for her sunny disposition and wide-awake ways. James Heselton “Jim”, a follower of the accounting course, enjoys art better than any other subject. We won’t attempt to explain why he claims that girls are his avowed peeve. For the past year his “vie” dances during lunch time have been a great source of enjoyment for us. “Jim” has been a member of the Service Squad and vice president of Hi-Y. When you get through Massachusetts Art, “Jim”, we expect to see you right there at the top. Kenyon Hicks “Congo” was that tall traffic cop on the first floor who did such a fine job catching speeders and taming down some of those hilarious sophomores. “Congo” ha s had Student Council, Hi- Y, and the Pioneer to keep him plenty busy; the cross country team has had a fine leader in this young gent. As if these activities were not enough, “Congo” is also a member of one of the prominent swing bands of this fair town. We are sure “Congo” will be successful, and we wish him all the luck in the world. Eleven THE PIONEER Rending High School 19 39 John Hilchey “Dune , or “Terwilliger”, is unques¬ tionably one of the most versatile members of our class. J. D. “I won’t argue with you; you’re w rong.” Hil¬ chey is first of all a Scotchman from Vermont, a musician and member of the band and orchestra, a model rail¬ road (and girl) connoisseur, one of our top rate students with an insatiable interest in chemistry, and without a doubt an actor after his performance in the senior play. “Dune” plans to take a P. G. next year followed by college and then a brilliant career as a chemist. Arthur Hopkins, Jr. “Hoppy wants to be a machine gun¬ ner; we hope he isn’t thinking of war too soon. We’ve often wondered how “Hoppy” got those broad shoulders, but now we know—he used to be a lumberjack in the Maine woods. He says that what he has enjoyed least in school is “getting kicked out.” We wonder what he means, being expelled or being graduated. Well, you’re all through now, “Hop”. Best of luck. Theresa Hutchinson “Hutchy” is the attractive girl who wields a very clever paint brush. Her ambition is to become a professional model. She is a member of junior Woman’s Club. If you boys should happen to call “Hutchy”, you would find a receptive audience, for her fav¬ orite pastime is talking over the tele¬ phone. She enjoys recess and dancing most in school. We wonder why. She claims that Warren is her pet peeve, but we don’t believe it, “Hutchy”. Marjorie Jewett “Margie” is a cheerful girl with a sunny disposition. She intends to study the violin, piano, and harmony and thus become a great musician. “Margie’s” talent is already acknowl¬ edged, for she has played at weddings, receptions, musicales for our Glee Club and orchestra, and with an orchestra in Boston. “Margie” belongs to the Junior Woman’s Club and Rainbow. “Margie”, we know your good nature will help your success! Ruth Jewett “Carrot Top wants to be a good wife and mother some day. (She al¬ ready loves children and housework, two good qualifications.) Will Stan¬ ley be considered? For the time be¬ ing, however, our red-headed friend will busy herself with becoming a suc¬ cessful secretary. Which ever way things turn out we know she’ll make the most of them. Good luck for the future, “Red”. Astrid Johnson Gangway for “Swede —the girl with a grin for everyone—who walks around the corridors without a care in the world. She’s an all-star basketball and field hockey player, skates well, and also throws a mean football. There is something about “Swede” that gives referees a bad impression ; perhaps it’s that she looks so defenseless! Never mind, kid, we like you, and we’ll never forget that Wakefield game! “Swede” insists that “her heart belongs to Daddy”, but we know differently! Lennart Johnson Here’s to “Lennie”, one of the mech¬ anical drawing students who wish to become draftsmen. “Lennie’s” got a job ahead of him this summer working in a greenhouse; that’s apt to be a pretty warm task. You’re lucky, “Len¬ nie , to be one of those fortunate persons who have no pet peeves. “Len¬ nie says his favorite food is fish. We wonder if he, too, is thinking of that song that started about the last of April. Ruth Johnson Ruth is one of our young artists. She specializes in portrait drawing, although she enjoys all types of sket¬ ching. She hopes to continue her training at some night school in Bos¬ ton next year. Ruth was a regular fullback on our girl’s hockey team un¬ til she got an after-school job that in¬ terfered with sports. T icelve 19 3 9 Rending High School THE PIONEER Shirley Johnson A recent addition to our class is “Sugar” Johnson from neighboring Woburn. (Was it you, Shirley, who brought on that invasion from Wo¬ burn?) Everyone likes this happy-go- lucky girl, and her ambition, to be happy, from all appearances won’t be hard to attain. Her favorite food is chop suey, so look for her in Chinx Town on graduation night. She’ll probably be there. Although she’s been among us only a short time, we all join in wishing her the very best of luck. Ralph Keating Ralph doesn’t like school very much, but he is a member of the brigade of us who pursue the College Course. H s favorite subject is art and his only am¬ bition is to get along in life. He plans to attend some prep school next year but is indefinite in his choice. “Swede” has a great interest in all sports. We’ll always remember him as the human stonewall plugging up the left guard position. He and “Al” Dinsmore gave Reading football fans more than one thrill. We hear that not one play of the opposition got through “Swede’s” position during the whole season! Keep up the good going, and don’t work too hard at Camp Thorne this summer, will you? Doris Kelly “Billy” is the quiet studious girl who frequents Mr. Halpin’s room—her fav¬ orite subject is math! She was on the properties committee for the senior play and was a faithful partici¬ pant in basketball and field hockey. She frankly admits that she doesn’t know what she’s going to do next year but her ambition is to become a minis¬ ter. Good luck to you, “Billy”. Raymond King “Rupe” is small in size but possesses a big heart. His favorite sport is baseball, and we must agree he is a fine ball player. “Rupe’s” best friend is a boy called “Blackie”. (Now we wonder who that is?) In past years he has been one of the football mana¬ gers and has done a fine job. Among “Rupe’s” many other accomplishments, fishing is of major importance to him. Our hats go oft to Rupe”! Lois Knapp We’ll not forget “Loi”. She is a member of the Girl Scouts and an ac¬ tive participant in athletics, especially basketball and tennis. Did you see her skiing tactics at the Sn ow Carnival? Not bad! She ' s been a pep, vim, and vigor girl—especially when she was working on the property committee for the senior play. “Loi” will enter the field of nursing soon, and we can imagine the healing effect her pleasant smile will have on her patients. Blanche Koptuck “Vicky’s” ambition is to be a sten¬ ographer. Strangely enough, her fav¬ orite subject is typing. Her most en¬ joyable hobbies and pastimes are sing¬ ing, listening to the radio, and going to the movies, especially if there is a comedy playing. For sports she chooses bowling, swimming, and horse¬ back riding. With the excellent train¬ ing that has been hers, she should easily gain her ambition. Marguerite Lane “Marga” plans to go to Westbrook Junior College after taking a P. G. course next year. Her chosen profes¬ sion is that of medical secretary, and we know she’ll be a good one. “Mar¬ ga” is a member of Rainbow and Junior Woman’s Club. Her hob¬ by right now is a certain sophomore, and who blames her? Almost every afternoon after school, Marga” can be found with the gang at Torre’s. It certainly is a long wait between lunch and dinner, and Torre’s seems to solve the problem for a lot of us. To Mar¬ guerite we wish the best of luck—and a handsome doctor! Janet Lawson Blonde Janet, sometimes known as “Robin”, is the talented young lady who took the part of Mrs. Dermott in the senior play. Her main ambition is to be an actress but she has been training to be a secretary and is almost certain of a job in Buffalo. Guests of the Danish Coffee House will remem¬ ber her sunny smile and jovial good humor. Janet has been an active mem¬ ber of the Junior Woman’s Club and Glee Club. Swimming is foremost among her favorite sports, while day¬ dreaming and listening to Artie Shaw’s records are her most enjoyable pas¬ times. Thirteen THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 Virginia Lester Virginia is going in training at the Massachusetts Memorial Hospital and we know she won’t stop until she’s superintendent of nurses! On the lighter side, “Ginnie” collects toy dogs and crochets; she enjoys swimming and chemistry and is an active member of the Usher’s Association. Mildred Lorgeree “Milly’s” ambition is to be a good nurse or a home-loving wife, and so she intends to go in training as a nurse next year, unless—. This sum¬ mer’s to be spent in having a good time dancing under the stars. (Kim¬ ball’s? We’ll be seeing you!) “Milly” is a member of Glee Club and likes most any kind of music. Best wishes to a good nurse. (Unless!) Marjorie Mack “Marge” is that blonde girl with the lovely complexion. She wants to be a nurse—or maybe a fashion model; anyway, she’s going to train to be a nurse. She hopes that she is going to work this summer, but if she doesn’t, she will probably spend her spare time swimming. May you be a lead¬ ing member of the “girls in white”, Marjorie. Lawrence MacLeod “Mac” is one of our latest additions, not having entered Reading High un¬ til last fall. He is going to spend the next four years in college and then he goes into marine engineering. Girls, please note: he is looking for a short woman who doesn’t brag and who can cook nice, tender, juicy porterhouse steaks. His hobby is experimenting with radios and his favorite subject is physics, but he dotes on musical comedies. Here’s the best of luck to you, “Mac”—you who have left such a deep impression in the short time that you have been with us. Dorothy Macmann Whether it’s in basketball, tennis, hockey, baseball, bowling, or swim¬ ming, “Dot” shines. She’s a letterm in in them all. Her student record also is to be admired as she won Faculty Honors. She’s going to B. U. to pre¬ pare for her career as an English and Latin teacher. Mastery of the bugle is hers, and she herself vows that “when bigger and better swing bands come out, Macmann will be in them!” With so wonderful a personality, “Dot”, success is yours for the taking. We’re sure you ' ll “take it!” Gertrude MacMillan Gertrude is undecided about what sort of position she wants for the future. However, she knows that be¬ fore she begins to worry about it, she is going to have a pleasant vacation in Maine. Lucky girl! Her pet peeve has been oral reports, but soon they’ll be another worry of? her mind. “Gert” enjoys bookkeeping and drawing in addition to swimming and movies about airplanes. We hope that her vacation “down east” will furnish her with some ideas for the future. Eleanor Madden “Mac’s” ambition is to travel and “see America first.” That’s the best way! She’s the quiet type and al¬ though she doesn’t indulge in it her¬ self, she loves to watch the dancing in the gym at lunch time. She likes to play the piano, read good books, and eat ice cream. Even if she does loathe geometry problems, she seems to solve them all right. Ask Mr. Hal- pin. “Mac” has prepared herself for normal school. Helen Madden Helen is an ambitious young lady who wants to become a private secre¬ tary. She will, too, because Helen is one of our best commercial students and one of Miss Maclver ' s star pupils. She’s another one of our best field hockey players and is good at basket¬ ball as well. This summer Helen wants to take a long vacation, and after those long hours of study, she certainly de¬ serves it. We’re all wishing you the best of luck in the future. Be good! Fourteen 19 3 9 Road inf! High School THE PIONEER Barbara Marshall Barbara’s tops in athletics, having starred in field hockey and been cap¬ tain of the senior basketball team. Besides that she has shown real skill in swimming and skating. She wants to become a successful artist, and if “Barb wants to do a thing, she usually goes right out and does it. If she wanted to go to Connecticut, we bet she’d go there, too; but she just does¬ n ' t want to. (Much!) You’re likely almost any time to see her on her bi¬ cycle, pumping away for dear life. Is that how you keep that girlish figure, “Barb”? Jean Marstaller Hats ofif to winsome Jean, our salu- tatorian! Jean, one of those quiet, demure, conscientious girls who show us all up in school work, has no par¬ ticular plans for the future but thinks that she will “P. G. it” next year and eventually become a teacher. Besides winter sports Jean enjoys studying the Bible; she is very versatile and among her hobbies are gardening, sewing, bird study, singing, and playing the piano. Jean says that she enjoyed her school days very much, especially her physics class even though she still can’t understand the theory of “freez¬ ing by boiling.” Cheer up, Jean; neither can we! Theresa McGrath “Tree’s” ambition is to be a post graduate next year and then to enter some business field. She is quite an amateur photographer and bicycle rider. “Tree” says that she hasn’t any best friends—she likes us one and all! Andrew McLaughlin “Andy”, or “Mac” as he is known to his intimates, is a quiet chap who has proved that “silence is golden.” As for the future, “Andy” plans a P. G. course at R. H. S. and then on to realize his ambition of becoming an engineer. The young ladies have no spot in “Mac’s” heart; chemistry and history occupy it. He is active in Hi-Y and vice president of the O. F. F. He hates homework and report cards, but then who doesn ' t ? His spare time is spent in playing baseball and building model airplanes. Keep up the good work, and lots of luck, “Mac”! Harold Melendy “Homer”, we hope you will soon reach your ambition of becoming an expert cook. “Homer’s” favorite sport is boating, and we can understand this because he lives so near Wakefield Lake. His favorite food is lobster, and when a fellow has such good taste in food we’re sure he’ll make a good cook. Bette Merrill During this past year Bette’s artistic contributions to the Pioneer have been invaluable, as has her help in decora¬ tions for our class dances. Outside of school she is a person who enjoys clubs and—well, other things. Bette likes to be called “Lil” and her am¬ bition, in addition to becoming an ar¬ tist (which seems inevitable), is to be liked by everyone. Next year she will be found at Mass. Art if her plans re¬ main unaltered. Good luck, Bette, and if Benny Goodman dies out, don’t worry; there’ll be someone else. Robert Morrissey “Bob”, who joined our troop only last September, wants to become a clarinet virtuoso and is well on his way already. He will work with a dance band this summer, but is unde¬ cided about the coming year. It didn’t take “Mellow” long to get acquainted, as he is now a member of Hi-Y, band and orchestra, and Alpha Delta Sigma. He enjoys U. S. History, and hockey is his favorite sport. Dancing is his hobby. He claims that girls are his pet peeve, but if so, why can’t he keep away from Medford? He likes Jan Savitt’s music, and will probably have his own orchestra in future years. We’re swinging with you, “Bob”! Mildred Murphy Mildred is another energetic person who wants to get a job as soon as she graduates. In the meantime, she plans to get a nice coat of tan at the beach on Abbott Road. “Millie” has been a faithful basketball player in her years at the high school, but other sources say she used to be interested in base¬ ball. Mildred seems to have been af¬ fected by that certain song, because her favorite dish is “sea food”. Her most enjoyable pastime is sleeping and eating. That’s no way to get a job, “Millie”! Fifteen THE PIONEER Rending High School 1939 Roger Mussells We are greatly indebted to “Muscles”, our mice fiend, for his mag¬ nanimous contribution to our biology class of a fine, large cage and eight mice. “Muscles” claims that geometrv is his favorite subject and that sailing is his hobby. We wish him the best of luck, but we rather suspect that the fellow who lists “brain food” as his favorite edible will hardly feel the need of any wish of the sort in order to become a success. Lois Newhouse Everyone knows “Loie”, the drama¬ tic-minded member of our graduating class. We remember how aptly she portrayed Faith, Mother’s darling, in our class play. From high school Lois intends to go into some dramatic school, and success there seems inevi¬ table. Lois is a member of the Junior Woman’s Club. She likes a certain fel¬ low who’s very popular at Andover Academy, so boys, just remember this It’s too bad our class acquired Lois so late, but we’re lucky to have had her at all. We expect to see her in the mov ies some day. Until then, remember- we knew you once. Jean Nichols “Nicky” is our invaluable helper when dances and social functions are planned. Her ambition (the secret am¬ bition of most girls) is to marry a mil¬ lionaire. We’re sure she’ll get her man with those golden locks and that win¬ ning smile. Although she has moved to Wakefield, we hope that she won’t forget to root for dear old Reading when football comes around. Audrey Nicholson Audrey (“Toni” to her friends) is the girl with the ever ready grin and that irresistible dimple. Audrey is one grand swimmer and is no slouch on skates. Her ambition is to be an ef¬ ficient worker, and those who have seen her in action in U. S. History seventh period, will all agree that she is one now. Audrey is pretty efficient at modeling, too, we’ll all agree. In¬ cidentally, don’t let her studious look fool you for a minute because those who know her outside of school say she can be one different gal! Mary Norton You all remember “Norton” as the ultra ultra Mrs. Crombie of the senior play; actually she ' s not like that at all. She’s athletic and liable to beat the boys at their own game. Mary excels in tennis, hockey, and basket¬ ball, and enjoys keeping scrap books and washing that reddish hair of hers. A future member of Wilfred Academy, “Norton” is going to be a beautician and hopes to get a job this summer. Confidentially, Mary dislikes getting up in the morning. (She’s not the only one.) Marion Ober Marion is another one of our many art enthusiasts. She intends to work during the summer and then go to Trade School in the fall. Her pet peeve is Hi-Y (do reason given)! Walking is her favorite hobby and pastime. Any type of movie interests Marion, so don’t be afraid to invite her. Marion is treasurer of the Alpha Club, but her job is easy. She is one who can always utter witty remarks on our many trials and tribulations. Her good humor will be one of her greatest assets! Beatrice O’Connell “Bea” is that tall blonde who is al¬ ways “jitterbugging.” She wants to be a private secretary and is taking shorthand and typing. Bea” will go to Burdett’s for the finishing touches. As for clubs, she says she belongs to the “Benny Goodman Swing Cats” and “Detention.” “Bea” likes movies, swimming, and lunch period; in fact, she believes in having a good time anywhere. Beatrice O’Donnell Here is that rather quiet student from room 7. Quiet or not, “Bea” is a real pal to everyone. Next year Burdett’s will have an eager student, for “Bea” intends to go there to be¬ come a good secretary. Although “Bea” is a follower of jitterbugging. she prefers to let her many friends put on the show while she watches. This is a good policy, “Bea”—it saves a lot of wear and tear. Sixteen 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER Myles O’Donnell Here is a gentleman who was born on Hallowe’en. “Mike” claims that he has enjoyed everything about school except detention. He hopes someday to see the world, but until that time, if one wishes to please “Mike”, all he has to do is serve him southern fried chicken with “the works.” “Mike” has helped with the write-ups for the Year Book, and for this we owe him many thanks. May he in the near future realize his ambition—the civil service. Helen O’Dowd Helen’s main ambition in life is to grow to be five feet, five inches tall; her next aspiration is to write a book. Helen, w r ho is an active member of the Junior Woman’s Club, is bored with the common place and loves movies with odd endings. Among her dis¬ likes, straight hair is the most out¬ standing. Helen’s favorite subject is U. S. History and her favorite dish, hot fudge sundaes! Edith Olson “Edie” is one of our quiet friends. She really has definite plans as to what she wants to be in the future. Next year she is going to Burdett’s to learn how to be a secretary in a doctor’s office. She’ll get there, too, if anyone can. Incidentally “Edie” is quite a field hockey player, as those of us on the team all know. When it comes to basketball, she’s right there, though she doesn’t seem to think so. Her pet peeve right now is hav¬ ing her name spelled wrong. (Hint— catch on?) Irene Orben Irene is another whose worthwhile ambition is to be a success. She plans to work a s soon as she graduates. Irene is a member of the Accounting Course, and her favorite subject is bookkeeping. She has several inter¬ ests outside of school—and also out¬ side of this state. Her hobby is col¬ lecting souvenirs, especially small dogs. Bertha Page Bertha, or “Bert” as she prefers it, is that rather sober-faced young lady w ' ho is everybody’s friend. This sum¬ mer she is going to keep house, and next fall she is going to night school. She simply loves to cook and go bike riding. With all these things to do, she manages to keep busy. Her am¬ bition is to understand people, and she won’t have a hard time realizing it with such a friendly disposition. The best for you always, “Bert”! Muriel Penny This is “Penny”, soon to join the throng of hard-working business girls. She doesn’t seem to mind a bit! If you have ever noticed “Penny” during lunch period, you would never have recognized her as the serious girl in the classroom. Her favorite sport is basketball, and she is a good player, too. Next year she’s going to school to master the comptometer machine, and we know she’ll make good. Edward Perry Edward is the rather retiring fellow whom we have all noticed none the less. His favorite subject has been Mr. Fancy’s course, and his ambition, logically enough, is to be a carpenter. As a pastime, Edward likes to play his guitar, so we have a mind to label him “the musical carpenter.” Perhaps soon he will have mastered the saw— both musically and professionally! May Peters May is that quiet, dark-haired girl with the sunny smile. She wants to become a dressmaker, and if the clothes she wears are samples of her work, she’ll be successful. Did you ever see a dream walking? If you did, it’s May, because walking is her favorite pastime. May is ambitious, too, and says that she is going right out and get a job. More power to her! Seventeen THE PIONEER Reading High School 1939 Paul Petzold Here’s to Paul, alias “Boogie”, an¬ other of our future airplane mechanics. Paul says what he enjoyed most in school was making friends. Let’s hope he will feel that way all his life. As you all probably remember, Paul was one of those expert skiers at our Se¬ nior Carnival, and if you see Paul this summer you will find that he is also an expert swimmer. Carl Pinkham Carl is one of our more studious pupils. He likes to take the hard way about things, as he plans to be one of our future air-conditioning en¬ gineers. For the next four years, “Pinky” will wear out shoe leather on the halls of Northeastern University. Carl was secretary of Hi-Y and a member of the Service Squad. He has been one of Mr. Halpin’s faithful stand-bys and informs us that he has¬ n’t liked the school assemblies because he never got to see them. Cooks will never have to fuss with meals for Carl, because he eats to live and isn’t par¬ ticular. Good luck to you, Carl, in the future! Natalie Pitman “Nat” hopes to become a doctor’s secretary, but first of all she’s going to catch up on her sleep. “Nat” col¬ lects music for a hobby (she’s a mu¬ sician, you know!) and enjoys roller skating and western movies. Her sunny disposition will well be remem¬ bered by her classmates in last year’s French III class. Among other things, “Nat” enjoyed being in the R. H. S. orchestra. Catherine Powell “Jodie” is one of those rare (?) girls whose main ambition is to be a modern wife in a modern home with a modern husband. (Lucky guy!) She is going to work and to night school next year. She is one who always has a smile; nobody can help liking her. As a member of the bowling team she broke the world’s record and is now runner up to the world champion for girls. “Jodie took the secretarial course, and she’d make a good secretary be¬ cause she’s always as neat as a pin. George Powell Many fellows who graduate from high school nowadays want to be either airplane mechanics or pilots. Jake” is one of the latter, and we’re sure he’ll realize his ambition. “Jake ' s favorite sport is, of course, football, and he made one swell captain for Reading High. Perhaps some day he’ll be leader of a squadron of pursuit ships. So long, “Jake”, and keep away from tailspins. Alma Putnam Alma, sometimes called “Honey”, is the lass with that wistful, dreamy look in her eyes, and we’re wondering if “Bob” is behind it all. This summer Alma hopes to get a job and then go to hairdressing school. We’ll always remember her for her antics in room F and also for her sunny disposition, which is due (so she says) to the fact that she does not jitterbug! Harold Richardson “Miz” is one of the most popular boys in our class. He’s the fellow who drives around in that nice little ’32 coupe. We hope he likes his new school next year, though we haven’t heard him say where it is to be. We’re sure it won’t be long before he’s a master mechanic. His favorite pastime of fixing old cars should help him to realize his ambition. Margaret Rigione “Peggy” is that new comer who hails from Winchester. She is quiet and a very good student. She wants to take up nursing as her profession but is uncertain about attending school next year. Well, “Peggy”, we hope you have enjoyed school as much as we enjoyed having you as a classmate. Eightecu 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER Mary Robbins “Sandy”, that small brunette, wants to be a professional dancer. With what we have seen so far of her danc¬ ing, she is sure to be a success. She has liked lunch hour best in school and “Macbeth” least. “Vera” (That’s her middle name, and a chosen few are allowed to use it) should have her name in lights before long. Earl Sargent Here comes “Sarge”, the fellow who spends summer months at the Vine¬ yard swimming, dancing, and working. His ambition is to become a certified public accountant, but he hates to do homework. He indulges in soccer, baseball, and skiing. We envy you those still summer nights on the Vine¬ yard eating your fried clams and lob¬ ster, “Sarge”! Phillip Sears “Phil” is probably one of our future firemen. Everything seems to point that way, as his hobby is snapping fire pictures, his favorite pastime is going to fires, and he usually gets there be¬ fore the ladders. “Phil” has been of great assistance to Coach Althoff by driving players to the scene of battle. He is a member of DeMolay and one reason why teachers worry. Here’s to you, Chief Sears. Dorothy Smith Friends of “Dottie” may get their hair waved free of charge in the near future, because she is going to at¬ tend Wilfred Academy next year prior to becoming a beautician. Dorothy takes an active interest in the Alpha Club and in Christian Endeavor. She enjoys dancing, hut she casts her vote against homework. Good luck to our future beautician. Richard Snyder “Boss” is the fellow who doesn’t care much for the weaker sex, but who is a lot of fun with the stronger sex. In the summer, he may be found either at the ball field or at the golf club and in the winter at the Park or “Bir- chie”. From what we hear, “Boss” is quite a caddy; if there is any doubt, just ask him. He is quite often seen in the front seat of a car known as the Green Hornet. Here’s to you, “Boss”. Polly Stembridge We all remember Polly as Vangy in “I’ll Leave It To You.” “Hot-Foot”, as Polly is known to her friends, loves to dance and roller-skate, and has dis¬ covered that Lvnn Beach is a good place for the latter. This summer will find Polly at her camp in Maine, and next fall she will attend Bradford Jun¬ ior College. May your future run as smoothly as did the senior play, Polly. Oh yes, and may Benny Goodman someday realize just how you’ve boost¬ ed him here in Reading. Richard Stratton “Dick”, or if you’d rather “Strat”, has been one of the busiest of us se¬ niors. He’s been a member of the football team, president of Hi-Y, man¬ ager of the Pioneer, member of the Student Council, chief of the Service Squad, technician in the Senior Play, and the Class Honors speaker at grad¬ uation ! But to top it all, girls, he is a lonely man who decidedly detests swing, even though he can play the ocarina so well. We can be sure that Maine University will have at least one really worth while student in the class of ’43. Roland Stuart Roland says his ambition is to make his second million; why haven’t we seen any of his first? Roland is one of those fortunate boys going to C. M. T. C. this summer. He has been one of our competent Service Squad mem¬ bers, and is well known around school for his parts in assemblies and De¬ Molay. Smooth sailing to you, Ro¬ land, on your second yacht. Nineteen THE PIONEER Reading High School 1939 Irene Sztucinski Irene is our clever young artist, who designed the cover of the School Re¬ port Next year she will go to Mass. Art, where we know she’ll become as active and popular as she has been here. She has been an influential member of the Pioneer staff and has made many contributions both artistic and literary to the magazine. Irene’s enthusiasm in supervising the costume committee for the senior play was typical of her. Her pet peeve is to have her last name mispronounced! When things are dull and Irene doesn’t feel like modeling clay or carving soap figures, she loves to experiment in cooking! Jane Tanner Jane is that poised girl who port¬ rayed the part of Sylvia Dermott in the class play so convincingly. We see her everywhere with her insepa¬ rable friend, “Pat”. If you want to have a good time, get up a party and invite these two, ’cause they can think of lots of things to do! Next year will probably find our actress display¬ ing her talents on some lucky college campus. Best of luck, Jane! Roy Tebbitts “Two Bits” is that lanky lad who may be found in the summer caddying at Meadow Brook. “Two Bits” is the boy who gives so many book reports about the wild and wooly west that he even talks like a cow puncher. He says that his best friend is “Pinky”— now we wonder who that could be. Everyone in Reading High knows him for his grand sense of humor, and we all know it will carry him a long way to success. Catherine Tebeau All of us know “Kitty”, and she’s been especially well known for her jitterbug dancing at lunch time. She intends to go to South Carolina this summer and live with her sister. Thus her ambition, to get out of Reading, will be realized. Mysteriously she speaks of “just Andy”, but we’ll wager a southern lad will soon take his place. She hates being bossed and jealous people. “Kitty” is so tiny that we can¬ not help wondering just where she stores all her energy. Gosh, she surely has plenty! Enjoy your vacation, and visit us sometime, won’t you ? Ruth Titcomb Yes Sir, it’s our old pal Ruth, the girl with the smile! Everyone likes this tall, attractive girl—one of our best field hockey players and an all round good sport as well. She has easily made friends in the two years she has been with us. Her wonderful sense of humor has added much to the enjoyment of lunch fifth period. Next year she wants a job as secre¬ tary, and with her personality, she’s bound to get it. Henry Tooley “Farmer Tool” is going to be a good farmer, the best farmer in the country. He’s going to attend the Amherst Ag¬ ricultural School next fall in prepara¬ tion for life as the keeper of a dairy. He has been working on a milk route already and knows that the sights a milkman sees are going to make life very interesting. He has been presi¬ dent of the 4-H Club, his favorite sport is hockey, and he likes nice, hot, Italian spagetti. Kenneth Turner Here’s to “Ken”, the future ski in¬ structor, who likes to travel. Maybe he’ll train for his ambition in Austria. He’s going to work with his father next year, probably to save for that trip. “Ken ' s” hobby is camping and mountain climbing. Careful, “Ken”! He is a member of that highly respect¬ ed organization, DeMolay. Here’s for bigger and better mountains, “Ken”. Linda Twombly Next year Linda is going to school in Pennsylvania. (Is that because North Carolina is nearby, Linda?) During the past year she has been a valuable asset to the Pioneer as one of the business managers. She has also been press correspondent for the Junior Woman’s Club. One can see that she’s been very busv, but then Linda always will be! On June 9 Linda is leaving for a trip to Alaska as a sort of graduation present. Have a good time, but don’t forget Reading! Twenty 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER Kathleen Walsh “Kal” has been struggling (she says!) to graduate, so now her first ambition has been realized. She wants to be a stenographer, and. as with many of us, her pet peeve is home¬ work. Collecting tie-pins, which is her hobby, ought, we think, to be a pleasant change as well as an inter¬ esting pastime. Anyway, good luck to “Kal”, one of our “little girls.” May the future be as rosy as her outlook on life. Stewart Watkins Gangway; look out all you law¬ breakers! Here comes State Trooper “Stewie” Watkins. That is his ulti¬ mate ambition, folks. He is going to work this summer, however, as a sales¬ man. (Fuller Brush Man?) He played football for three years for R. H. S. but says that hockey is his favorite sport. You will have a good start in the state police, “Stewie”, with your Service Squad experience behind you. Edward Watson “Hector” plans that after graduation he is going to take a long vacation and then—well, he is going to work. “Hector” has enjoyed sciences most in school; maybe that long rest will in¬ spire him to invent a thing or two! He also enjoyed the lunch period, and he adds that his favorite sport is eat¬ ing. Robert Waugh “Bob” says he wants to rest next year! “Bob” was a valuable man on the football squad for R. H. S. until he broke his wrist. His favorite hobby is having a good time, and we must admit that is a hobby. “Bob” used to work in Howard Johnson’s but this summer he says he’s going to take a vacation. “Bob” says his favorite sub¬ ject is Problems of Democracy. Per¬ haps in “Bob” we see a future states¬ man. Frank Weeks Here is our future international lawyer (Boy, what an ambition, but you can do it, Frank!) who has been merely marking time in what to him was a snap scientific course. Sports— especially the baseball team of which he is captain—Student Council, and Hi-Y have taken a considerable amount of Frank’s time. Perhaps the thing he hates most in this world is a show-off. He isn’t sure what col¬ lege he will attend, but you can be sure Frank will be one of the top stu¬ dents wherever it is. Marjorie Wellington “Margie” is our quiet, amiable pal who has a yen to be a stenographer. Since shorthand and typing are her favorite subjects, we know she will succeed in her secretarial ambitions. She says her pet peeve is being called “Johanna”—we wonder why! In her own inimitable, congenial manner, this dark haired, blue-eyed lass will get along! Gladys White Three cheers for “Toody”, our rip¬ roaring little cheer leader, whose pep, vim, and vigor have helped to perk up many a down-hearted football fan. Besides being a cheerleader, “Toody” has starred in basketball and field hockey, and as the girls in the Sub Deb Club all sav. “How could we forget her!” She has shown us that she is a very capable model and she really has the figure for it. “Toody” has a wonderful disposition, and the only people who irritate her are those with quick, inconsiderate tempers. Likewise, gal! Likewise! Effie Wildon Effie is the quiet type, but good listeners are always popular. Effie’s favorite food is fried scallops and po¬ tatoes at Sailor Tom’s. She is a mem¬ ber of the well known Order of Rain¬ bow Girls. Her ambition is to be an expert stenographer, and with this goal in view she plans to attend Bryant and Stratton next fall. Good luck, Effie! T iventy-one THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 Albert Dinsmore “Porky” is going to be a farmer this summer way down in Maine. “Porky” is one of our all round sportsmen. He has been a highly valued member of the football and baseball squads and has captained baseball. Baseball, how¬ ever, is his ambition and someday we may see him in the big leagues. As a hobby he keeps scrap books of his favorite ball players. We’ll be rooting, “Al,” Frank Dinsmore “Chesty” says he’s going to sea next year. That’s about the most healthy occupation we can think of, but they tell us there isn’t much future in it. We’ve got a feeling, however, that he’ll change that. We might remind those that tease “Chesty” about being short that it isn’t size that counts, but quality. Best of luck, Frank, in what¬ ever you attempt. Ralph Meuse “Dizzy” wants to be an accountant. He is going to continue next year to learn more about bookkeeping. He already has a job for this summer working in a flower shop. Tennis is his favorite sport, and at times he has been known to go in for dramatic acting. Here’s wishing good luck for you, “Dizzy”. Newell Mackenzie “Newt”, or more appropriately “Sail¬ or”, wants to be a sea captain and will begin his career this summer as a cabin boy on a coal hauler. His hobby is building model airplanes, but bis favorite sport is sailing and like all sailors he will eat anything that looks like food. He has especially hated deficiencies, and his favorite pastime has been trying to improve his marks—well, we all try. Here’s hoping, “Sailor”, that you find your captain’s berth soon after you’re through attending the Massachusetts Nautical Schoolship, Nantucket. Robert Pratt “Whackey” (Yes, that’s what we call him as much as he hates it!) is one of our leading mechanics. If you ever want to find “Whackey”, just look up “Gil”. “Whackey” is quite a rough and tumble hockey player—the rougher the better. He and his green Chevrolet are inseparable companions. At one time “Whackey” was a frequent visitor on Park Street West, but that has fallen off considerably. How come, “Whackey”? Damon Van Buskirk All of us who know him can’t help liking “Doc” who has walked into phy¬ sics late every morning. “Doc” en¬ joys a good juicy steak after a hard game of his favorite sport, tennis; he also indulges in reading and photogra¬ phy to while away the time. He ex¬ pects to continue his studies at B. U. next year and meanwhile will retain his duties at the North Reading Sana¬ torium. He is an ardent member of Hi-Y, and likes the co-operative spirit of the students and teachers at R. H. Etta Wood We’ve all noticed Etta, the quiet, likeable girl who dwells on Woburn Street, quite handy to dear old R. H. S. She has a great ambition to become a secretary and plans to go right to work this year after getting out of school. Walking is one of her pet sports. (Guess that’s how to keep that slim figure, girls!). We all wish her the best of luck in the future. S. His pet hate is the depression, but as he has already held positions with sever al nation-wide concerns, “Doc” will never be idle for long. It has been swell knowing you, “Doc”. Guy Ellison Guy is the boy who tinkers with combinations of apparatus in the phy¬ sics lab but who has no definite am¬ bition as yet. “Abner”, as he has been dubbed, is one who spends long hours in Boston just for enjoyment. His hobby is guns of all sorts while his favorite sport is golf and making over golf clubs. He has the hobby of pro¬ pounding long explanations, which have been readily absorbed by the class. He will work at Meadow Brook this summer and then return for a P. G. Helen Wescott “Pimp” has a great ambition to be a singer. Knowing this little girl to be capable of great things, we expect in the near future to turn on our radios and listen to the strains of her sweet voice issuing forth. She says her pet peeve is being told that she has red hair (which she says she hasn’t!) But red hair or not, we know that “Pimp” will go places with that infectious laugh of hers. Twenty-two 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER NEWS ASSEMBLIES This year we have enjoyed many worthwhile and enjoyable motion pictures during the assembly period. On January 10, under the auspices of the Chevrolet Com¬ pany, the assembly enjoyed three educational and ab¬ sorbing motion pictures: “On Two Wheels”, “Vacuum Power”, and “Color Harmony.” On January 15, the in¬ formative Community Fund movie was shown. On March 7, the assembly saw an interesting movie on nursing as a profession and especially on the work done by the visiting nurse. “The three year training course is diffi¬ cult and the hospital work trying, but on Commencement Day the efforts are rewarded in the feeling that now you are qualified to aid humanity.” Such was the message the picture brought to us. On April 26, “The Sea of Strife was shown to the assembly. We saw how the waters of the Mediterranean Sea have run red with blood ever since the time of the Phoenicians and other early Mediterranean peoples. Greek and Carthaginian civili¬ zations were destroyed by the Romans, whose great em¬ pire was in turn destroyed by the barbarians from the north. After the stagnant period of the “Dark Ages passed, a great British empire was built. Today the peace of the nations of Europe and the world is being threatened by the dictators of Europe, and again the Mediterranean is playing a leading part. Finally, on May 18, Mr. Paul Elliott showed and commented on his interesting film, “Old Mexico. We were greatly in¬ terested in the “Dance of the Christians and Moors, the handiwork of the Indians, the “Dance of the Plumes, the sport of throwing a bull by the tail, and the grue¬ some bull fight. Mr. Elliott also showed glimpses of some of the World’s Fair Buildings. One of the most interesting assemblies of the year occurred on February 21, when Mrs. Woodman, Presi¬ dent of the Reading Woman’s Club, introduced to the assembly Mr. Cameron Beck, Personnel Director of the New York Stock Exchange for twenty-two years. Mr. Beck has dealt with young people for many years and was well qualified to give us useful advice. His main emphasis fell on the fact that education is a continuing process. March 14 marked one,of the most enjoyable assem¬ blies in recent school history. Miss Nichols succeeded in obtaining two talented ballroom dancing instructors from the Hazel Coombs School of Dancing, Alice Asteil and William Murphy. They demonstrated different dance steps and spoke briefly on proper conduct while dancing. Fifteen couples volunteered and were instruct¬ ed in the fundamentals of the waltz, the foxtrot, jiving, the new popular dance “ ’Neath the Spreading Chestnut Tree”, and other group dances. Needless to say, the pro¬ gram was enthusiastically received. On March 17, Mr. Raymond Johnson, Treasurer of the Reading Co-operative Bank, addressed the assembly, giving us much useful and enlightening information about the banking system, mutual and co-operative. He urged us to save regularly some sum of money, thus building habits of thrift. On March 30, Mr. Sussmann addressed the assembly in memory of our former superintendent, Mr. Safford, who recently passed away. For twenty-one years Mr. Safford was principal, then superintendent of the Read¬ ing schools. He was born in the wild country of Dead River in northern Maine and taught school in the log cabin school at Eustis. He worked his way through Bates by teaching. Soon after graduating he was mar¬ ried. He spent all of his spare time reading and at¬ tempting to find new ways of furthering the interests of young people, with whose welfare he was greatly con¬ cerned. He represented a type of individual we are fast losing in this country: a boy living far back in the wild¬ erness, having an ambition and seeing it through. On April 11, the assembly was entertained by Sta¬ tion WRHS broadcasting the “Sizzling, Succulent, Sau¬ sage Program.” Members of the cast were Constance T wenty-three THE PIONEER Reading High School 1939 Scharton and Glen Davis, announcers; Grace Bowers, “Arlene Harris”; Ruth Hamilton, “Dorothy Fixit”; Bar¬ bara Jones, “Mrs. Martius”; Charles Sullivan, “a loaf¬ er”; Muriel Powers, “Aunt Polly”; Dorothy Crosby, “Tizzie Lish”; and Dorothy Colburne, “an actress. Mary Delano, Myles O ' Donnell, and Thelma Currell par¬ ticipated in the advertising skits. Richard Fellows, Ruth Pomeroy, Helen Roach, and Marjorie Moses were the actors and actresses in the play. This unique and humor¬ ous program was enjoyed immensely by all of us. Let’s have more of them next year, Mrs. Wiens! On May 4, Mr. Pierce, Superintendent of the Read¬ ing Schools, addressed the assembly on leaching as a vocation. He pointed out that being an instructor is a difficult and trying task and advised only those physical¬ ly fit and mentally equipped to enter the field. The per¬ sonal qualities which he feels a teacher must possess to be superior are 1—a real burning spirit of service, 2— true love and understanding of young people, 3—a spirit of kindliness and sympathy, 4—patience and a sense of humor, 5—a spirit of fairness, 6—a spirit of co-opera¬ tion, 7—a magnetic personality, 8—a high degree of in¬ telligence, and 9—excellent health—both mental and physical. On May 9, the assembly program was opened with a short baseball movie “Hits, Runs, ’N Errors.” Then Miss Nichols presented the basketball awards, stars, let¬ ters, and numerals to the sophomore, junior, and senior girls who had won the awards. Coach Althoff presented basketball awards to the members of the team. Coach Holgerson awarded letters and silver footballs to the seniors of the ’39 football team. “Harvard” won the intramural basketball trophy, which the coach presented to Captain George Powell. Thomas Widell won the distinction of “Leading Scorer”; Robert Mason, “Most Valuable to the Team”; and Lloyd Chisholm, “Cleanest Player.” The captains of the intramural teams, George Powell, Willard Perkins and Donald Whitford, received awards. A special award was given to Lawrence Enos for serving as manager of the football, basketball and baseball teams for three years. The program closed with another short movie, “Tennis Topnotchers.” On May 10, Mr. H. D. Beatty, Dartmouth graduate and baseball player, spoke to the pupils on “Baseball and Life. He compared the game of life to a baseball game with interesting results. Mr. Beatty was a par¬ ticularly vivacious speaker and had an amazing knack of mingling biblical quotations and worthwhile maxims with his abundant baseball anecdotes. On May 17, Reading High School commemorated the three hundredth anniversary of the settlement of the town of Reading. Glen Davis, master of ceremonies, opened the program by leading us in a salute to the flag, and the entire school sang “America the Beautiful.” The assembly rose and took a silent pledge of allegiance to the community, led by Donald Taylor. Mr. Sussmann urged us to remember that “the New England town is the pattern and school of democracy and should be pre¬ served.” Mr. Clinton Bancroft spoke on “Reading— Then” and urged some of us to compile a record of Reading’s history—something which has never been done. Mr. Newell Morton, one of our selectmen, spoke on “Reading—Now and Tomorrow and urged us to make the best of all the advantages offered us in the High School in order that we may be ready for our oppor¬ tunity when it comes. The program ended with the sing¬ ing of “God Bless America. Pauline Eames ’39 SOPHOMORE YEAR At the close of our reign as Sophomores, we, the class of 1941, pause for a backward glance at what has been. There were our class elections in September, when Stella Pollitz became our president, Robert Eisen- haure our vice president, Lillian Davis our secretary, and Robert Taylor our treasurer. Then came the holidays resulting from the hurricane—just in time to give us a breathing spell when we needed it most and to get some of the avalanche of new found homework accomplished. As time went on, we found our true station in the school plan, and although knowledge may have been at the small end of the consuming line, we absorbed much, re¬ jected nothing. As spring came on, we began to awaken. The faculty play gave us a broader outlook on life and we ceased to live in awe. Our success in the social line is yet to come. It will consist of the traditional Sophomore Hop, which will take place May 26th. As the plans now stand, we should have as colorful and beautiful a dance as any held in former years. The executive board plans a repli¬ ca of the New York World’s Fair. It will be built as far as possible by the Sophomore Class. We have thoroughly enjoyed our first year at Read¬ ing High. We wish to thank Miss Simon, our class ad¬ visor, and the various teachers of the Sophomore Class for making it a pleasant as well as profitable one. One year is all that we can devote to being Sophomores. We leave the task of carrying on to the other classes. May they have as fine a year as we have had! Carolyn Campbell ’41 JUNIOR COMMENTARY The members of the Junior Class have been kept very busy with class activities, especially with social functions. The class officers—Jeanette Davis, presi¬ dent; Barbara Gonnam, vice president; Eleanor Pestana, secretary; and Richard Fellows, treasurer, chose various committees to make the annual Junior Prom one of the most outstanding dances of the school’s history. Al- T wenly-jour 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER HI-Y First row: Kenneth Anderson. I.Ioyd Chisholm, Warren Hill, John Hrynowsky, Rae Amback, Benjamin Hodges, Sherman Poland Richard Fellows, Raymond Hutchinson. Second row: William Jacques, Norman Lloyd, Richard Knudson, John Quinlan, Irving Holcomb, Norman Putnam, Kenneth Coombs, Carl Gilman. Richard Stratton, Glenn Davis Third row: Robert Morrissey, Frank Weeks, James Heselton, Newell Mackenzie, Robert Henderson, Robert Taylor, John GreenleaL Gordon Abbott. Fourth row: Benjamin Beaudry, Franklin Bryant, Harry Barr, Kenyon Hicks, Gilbert Camp, Howard Bates, Carl Pinkham. though the dance was held on December 23, the out¬ standing decorations were not of the usual red and green, but rather of a blue and silver color scheme. With Mr. William Rich and his orchestra as the main attraction, supplying excellent and memorable dance melodies, the Prom was the huge success we had all hoped for. Dur¬ ing intermission the couples flocked to the lunch room, where punch, ice cream, and cake were served. Our pa¬ trons and patronnesses were Mrs. Wendell P. Davis, Mrs. Horace Fellows, Miss Florence Nichols, Mr. Luke Hal- pin, and Miss Helen Stanwood. As the class of ’40 has the reputation of always getting what it goes after, we are sure our Junior-Senior Reception will prove deserv¬ ing of praise from our critical upper classmen. With decorations of the world of tomorrow already in pro¬ gress, with an orchestra owned by one of our own class¬ mates “Stan Davis, and with plenty of money stored away in the treasury, there is no doubt that success is forth coming. The class officers wish to thank Mr. Halpin, our advisor, for his faithful and helpful counsel and co¬ operation in our class activities. To the various teachers of the Junior Class, the class as a whole expresses its appreciation for a very pleasant and industrious year which we shall all remember. Barbara Gonnam ’40 Hi-Y The Hi-Y has been very ably directed this year by President Richard Stratton, Vice President James Hesel¬ ton, Secretary Carl Pinkham, and Treasurer Frank Weeks, and by its advisors—Mr. Pope, Newell Morton, and Clarence Gay. For outside activities the Hi-Y ran quite a successful Co-ed Nite, a not so successful (al¬ though we didn’t lose money) movie, and a huge Thanks¬ giving and Christmas basket distribution. At our first meeting “Dick” Stratton gave a report of the National Hi-Y Congress in Kentucky at which he represented us. During the year, we heard several interesting speakers. Mr. Taylor of the faculty gave us an illustrated talk about his experiences in the Philippines; Mr. Turner, a handwriting expert and criminologist, presented an illus¬ trated talk; Mr. Stratton spoke on insurance adjusting and related subjects; Mr. Weston of Medford talked on the oddities of Boston and then gave us many interesting facts about the Chinese and their language, which he could very well do being a member of one of the tongs; Mr. Dixon entertained us with some of his fine oratory on present day affairs. We had three inductions and an excellent discussion meeting, the latter proving quite a surprise to Mr. Pope and making him hopeful of the future of Hi-Y. May next year’s officers carry on the good work of the Hi-Y movement and improve our own club as much Twenty-five THE PIONEER Rending High School 19 3 9 SENIOR PLAY CAST First row: Marion Gray, Janet Lawson, Jane Tanner, Mary Norton, I,ois Newhouse. Second row: Richard Knudson Polly Stembridge, Richard Childs, Gordon Abbott. John Hilchev. as possible. Best wishes for a successful year are ex¬ tended to the club and to its new officers: Tom Connelly, president; Sherman Poland, vice president; Richard Fellows, secretary; Raymond Hutchinson, treasurer. Kenyon Hicks ’39 SENIOR PLAY On Friday evening, April 14, the Senior Class of Reading High School presented at Shepardson Hall Noel Coward’s modern comedy “I’ll Leave It to You.” An explanation of the title is included in an explanation of the play itself. The action revolves about a typical, wealthy Eng¬ lish family which wakes up one day to find itself prac¬ tically penniless. The advent of a supposedly opulent South American uncle seems providential but they reckon without his cunning. When he arrives on the scene, he finds, to put it in his own words, a group of “idle young bounders,” frittering away their time and accomplishing nothing. Determined to do something about it, he calls a family council whereby each member of the family is informed that to the one of them who will do best by himself and the family name the uncle will bequeath his entire fortune. A year and a half later, when each is on the way to the top in his own field, it is discovered that uncle is a fraud. Naturally, to say the least, they are quite upset about the practical joke that has been played upon them and refuse to have anything to do with this imposter. The remainder of the play is con¬ cerned with the efforts of the eldest daughter to bring about a reconciliation. This is finally accomplished and everything ends happily. The scene of the play is set in the Dermott family’s country home not far from the great city of London. It is here that Mrs. Dermott, the vague, scatter-brained widow so marvelously portrayed by Janet Lawson, watches over her brood of five children. The only seem¬ ingly sensible one of this lot is Sylvia, the eldest of the three daughters whose job as an actress requires a great deal of womanly abandon (she even goes as far as to jump off Westminster Bridge on a horse). Her part was take n by Jane Tanner, whose poise and down-to- earthness filled the characterization perfectly. Evange¬ line, the highbrow young novelist, was played by Polly Stembridge. As Joyce, the remaining daughter, Marion Gray added a school girl vivaciousness to the family. The two brothers are Oliver, an ordinary mechanic, whose dignified role was well done by “Dick“ Knudson, and Bobbie. The last character, admirably played by “Dick” Childs, is an unambitious youth who falls in love with the wrong girl, but fortunately all is discover¬ ed before it’s too late. John Hilchey did a magnificent job with just enough self-assurance (even if the Scotch¬ man in him did crop out at an inopportune time) as the fraudulent Uncle Daniel. As Faith Crombie, the girl who simply had to “ask Mother first”, Lois New¬ house showed off her acting ability to perfection. The third member of the eternal triangle was Mother her¬ self, the over-ambitious Mrs. Crombie, whose part was competently filled by Mary Norton. Last but not least we have as Griggs, the inevitable English butler, Cordon Abbott, who kept us in the proverbial stitches during rehearsals with his impersonations of various play characters. Twenty-six 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER GLEE CLUB First row: Barbara Cleveland, Jean Danforth, Francis McLaughlin Frances Madden, Alice Johnston, Evelyn Shaw, Virginia Perkins, Marjorie Jewett, Vivian Hook, Marilyn Vaughn, Mildred Lorgeree, Mary Zitzow. Second row: Evelyn Comey, Barbara Tasney, Marjorie Wright Marion Gray, Janet Lawson, Margit Courossi, Kathleen Brown, Sonia Courossi, Ruth McMenamin, Gertrude Lorgeree, Rita Toussaint. Third row: Eleanor Zitzow, Alma Mansfield, Priscilla Nichols Harriet Parker, May Melanson, Gertrude Dahlquist, Avis Sargent, Muriel Evans, Esther Frotten, Marion Henderson. The success of the play was due in no small degree to the tireless efforts of our coach, Mrs. Jean M. Wiens. Too much cannot be said for her good humor and graciousness, which served her so admirably at times when she must have despaired at our amateurish at¬ tempts. We only hope that we repaid her to some extent for the time which she so unselfishly gave up for our cause. Our thanks are due, also, to those people who work¬ ed with us backstage. It’s no easy job to be stage man¬ ager as “Dick“ Stratton was or to have charge of the lighting effects (especially with so many switches to choose from) as did Edward Bradley, Lawrence Mac¬ Leod, and Edward Greenlaw. The various other com¬ mittees such as properties, costumes, and tickets con¬ tributed in no small part to the play’s success. In conclusion, we who were in the play thank all of you for your generous support. Polly Stembridge ’39 MUSIC NOTES This year, thanks to Mr. Peck, the school has had the music of either the orchestra or the band at most assemblies. Rehearsals have been carried on in both organizations until, at the present time, they have ac- chieved more style and polish than they have had in re¬ cent years. Several of the more experienced members have devoted time, not only to school musical activities, but also to Civic Orchestra functions. Without a doubt, even though several of the more experienced players will have graduated, Mr. Peck will have enough basic ma¬ terial to build an excellent orchestra and band for next year. Our exuberant conductor can really be proud of this year’s Glee Club. Surely there is not a single mem¬ ber who will forget that Mr. Peck’s favorite sentence is “Sit forward in your chairs with your feet flat on the floor! or that his pet peeve is gum-chewers. His tire¬ less efforts have been more than rewarded, however. The girls not only sang at assemblies, Rotary Club meetings, and Civic Symphony Orchestra Concerts, but they wound up the season by taking part in the Massachusetts State Festival, which was held in Belmont this year. Here they retained their standing of highest honors for the sixth consecutive year! The famous trio of Vivian Hook, Evelyn Comey, and Alma Mansfield were entered in a contest this year and received highest honors for the best trio work in the state. One of their last activities of this busy year was to sing for the Student Radio Club over WAAB, where their voices blended beautifully in songs such as “Butterfly ”, “Echo Song”, “What is More Gentle Than a Wind in Summer”, and the beautiful “Robin in the Rain.” Reading High is justly proud of its Glee Club and of a conductor who has made it famous and put Reading on the map for its splendid musical talent. Janet Lawson ’39 John Hilchey 39 T wenty-seven THE PIONEER Reading High School 1939 NATIONAL FORENSIC CONTEST WINNERS Lois Newhouse, Charles Sullivan, Dorothy Babcock, Doris Steele. MISQUOTED YOUTH Continued from Page 3 it is certainly our duty and obligation to fulfill this trust to the best of our ability. And we must never for¬ get o ur parents. If anyone sincerely has faith in us, it is they. Ever since we were born, they have been build¬ ing in their minds an idealistic picture of us as success¬ es—the citizens of tomorrow. Their opinions have served as guides to us for many years, so certainly their sacrifices should be repaid in the only way they have expected and hoped, with success. Youth does not have in its vocabulary any hopeless terms! It is strong, so when one hears that the youth of today complains about its burdens, that it is not ready to assume the responsibilities which will in the course of time be waiting, that it is shirking those duties which already confront youth, then youth is being misquoted. All youth is endowed with the same qualities—strength, eagerness, courage—and it is merely a question of how the youth of today will use these gifts that ought rightly to be discussed. There should be no question as to how we shall carry on this great democracy. The present older generation was once young. It had ideas just a little different from those of the previous generations. It was as much discussed. Yet it has fulfilled satisfac¬ torily all that was demanded of it. And so will the present generation. There is no doubt as to the courage of youth, and courage can be a great help in time of trouble or emergency. Then, too, youth is always eager to undertake new and difficult tasks, and oh, it is so eager to succeed in them. We, the youth of today, can and will work hard, trying always to maintain the high standards that have been set for us. Youth today is misquoted! The present American youth is willing to give his all to the country of his birth, a land of freedom and initiative. We need only our hands and minds and an intense desire to succeed. Our ancestors have not left us a land of ruin! We are perhaps the most fortunate youth in the world. We have distinct advantages over so many people of our own age who dwell in other lands that we should work harder and be the more appreciative of those things which we shall soon inherit. We are fortunate, and there aren ' t many who will not admit this truth. Let us therefore, prove ourselves worthy of all who have helped us get ahead, make our lives examples for the next gen¬ eration to follow and be proud of! Ruth Pollitz ’39 T wenty-eight 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER BASKETBALL 1938-1939 With mostly juniors on the basketball team this year, the boys didn’t do quite so well as they have done in other years, but they stood up surprisingly well under the stiff competition that the Middlesex League offered. After winning two out of three of the first league games and beating the Alumni, the team was forced to give way to the shooting of Conroy of Wakefield and Johnson of Winchester. From then on we just couldn’t squeeze out a win, although some of the games were very close. The second team, however, enjoyed a some¬ what better season, with ten wins and two defeats. They were tied for first place with Lexington. It is hard to say exactly who was on the first team, as Coach Althoff shifted the players often. The only two who stayed on it every game were Captain Dins- more and high-scorer “Herby” White. When the season ended, the other three members of the first team were Merritt (center), Hrynowsky (forward), and Haselton (guard). Almost everybody had a chance to be on the first team at some time during the season, however. Too much cannot be written of the defensive work of “Al” Dinsmore. Just glancing at the low scores of the other teams will prove this statement. When “Al” once found his eye in a game, he sank baskets right and left. “ATs” partner for most of the season at the guard post was Wallace Haselton. “Hezzy”, too, knew how to break up plays and was always an offensive threat. “Chuck” Taylor and “Tony” Sarcone were the other two guards, both able to hold their own with anything the opposition had to offer. The center position is one of the hardest to play, but was held well by “Dick” Merritt. “Dick” was al¬ ways passing the ball around and waiting for someone to get clear for a shot. The other center was Walter Hilton, the tallest man on the team. He scored many of his points by just tapping the ball into the basket. Most of the players on the squad were forwards. “Herby” White ranked first among them, not only be¬ cause he scored the most points, but because of the ease and assurance with which he played the game and worked the plays. He was the most closely watched man on the team. John Hrynowski played at guard for a part of the season, but was shifted to forward. One of the hardest workers on the team “Hiram never admitted defeat and was always fighting to win. “Dick” Dacey was also one of those shifted around. He was a center some of the time, but spent most of the season at the forward post. “Dick” is the only graduating member of the team. Another sharpshooter was “Dick” Lawlor, who could be recognized by his red hair. He contribut¬ ed some fine basketball by his steady scoring. Last, but not least, comes “Lenny” Wright, who seemed to work with hardly any effort at all. He could be depended upon to be in the right place at the right time and to roll up some points of his own. Coach Althoff tried as much as possible to keep the Sophomore Team together, as they had been used to working with each other in the Junior High. They help¬ ed to win many of the second team games. The members were Dacey and Burbine, guards; Lovejoy, center; and Storti and Stephanian, forwards. The Sophomores were Glenn Davis, Tom Widell, “Jim” Bain, and “Ernie” Doucette. The team got off to a good start by beating Con¬ cord, “Herby” White going on a scoring spree. We didn’t feel so bad when Belmont beat us because it was anybody’s game until the final bell. Next we went ahead to beat the Alumni by thirteen points. Then the team went to town to beat Stoneham 44-24, scoring their highest of the season. No opponent was able to roll up that big a score against us all year. At our first game out of town, we were beaten by Wakefield after being ahead 13-8 at the half. Conroy of Wakefield was the star of that game. Winchester’s Carl Johnson and his mates were too much for the boys next week, and we dropped that one. Against Lexington’s high scoring team, we scored twenty-one points, allowing the opposition thirty. Entering into the second half of the season we were defeated with a three point margin by a greatly improved Concord team. In Belmont’s small gym, we were in the game all the way, but we couldn’t quite catch up. We also found Stoneham improved T wenty-nine THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 BASKETBALL—1938-1939 First row: Leonard Wright, Herbert White, Albert Dinsmore, Wallace Haselton, R;chard Lawler Second row: Charles Taylor, Charles Dacey, Walter Hilton, John Hrynowsky, Richard Merritt considerably and were nine points behind when the game ended. Wakefield duplicated their earlier win, but Con¬ roy was held to eleven points, his lowest of the season, and was outscored by one of his teammates, Martin. The factor that caused defeat against Winchester was prob¬ ably the banishment of Haselton on fouls near the last of the game, leaving Johnson open for the points that won the game. Many of the spectators agreed that Haselton was not at fault. The second Alumni game took some of the sting out of the previous defeats, with Merritt scoring a foul shot in the second overtime period to win the game. The last game of the season was really a heartbreaker—we were ahead of Lexington all the time until the last minute of play. This game, however, was the best played by the team during the entire season. The scores of the games were as follows: Reading Opponents 42 Concord 24 17 Belmont 19 29 Alumni 16 44 Stoneham 24 17 Wakefield 32 9 Winchester 32 21 Lexington 30 15 Concord 18 32 Belmont 39 23 Stoneham 32 28 Wakefield 36 18 Winchester 24 27 Lexington 28 Rae Amback ’40 BASEBALL With only two lettermen returning from the squad of ' 38, it was extremely doubtful whether Coach Holger- son could mold a team capable of providing stiff enough opposition for the other clubs in the Middlesex League. However, with regular practices as a basis and with spirit and bustle as the keynotes, Reading presented a team which played heads-up ball whether it won or lost. The catching duties this season were taken care of by “Dick ' Merritt. Besides being one of the club’s heavy hitters, “Dick” showed a strong arm that made the opposition think first before trying to outsmart him on the diamond. The mound corps was composed mainly of “Buck” Madden, John Hrynowsky, Frank Dinsmore, and “Little Sir Echo” O’Brien. This staff, although unsteady at times, pitched good enough ball to win its share of games. First base was held down by John Quinlan. John is a good hitter and fielder, and with this year’s experience (we ' re not counting that “shiner”!) behind him, should develop into an even better ball player next year. The keystone combination of “Herby” White at sec¬ ond and “Hokie” Holcomb at short, although not the largest in the league in the point of size, certainly rated one of the top places when it came to fielding and to steady and timely hitting. Covering third base was the captain of the team, Frank Weeks, a good hustler and a dependable man in the clutch. He also turned in a credible job on the Thirty 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER BASEBALL — 1939 First row: Woodbury Titcomb, Frank Dinsniore, Richard Merritt, Robert Mason, Herbert White, Frank Weeks, Irving Holcomb, Albert Stephanian, Anthony Tine, Willard Perkins, John Storti, Donald O’Brien. Second row: Francis Brennan, Robert Spellman, John Collins, Glenn Davis, John Quinlan, William Con¬ nelly, Warren Hill, John Crooker, Edgar Davis, Raymond Amirault, Coach Holgerson. pitcher’s mound when called on. In left field was stationed “Red” Perkins. “Perk” was a dependable fly chaser and not many base runners took chances with his strong arm. “Perk” will be back next year tr mg just as hard. “Blacky Stephanian, a sophomore, covered center field well and was lead-off man in the batting order. Like “Perk he is a steady fielder and the possessor of an accurate arm. “Red Brennan, otherwise known as “Punchy”, com¬ pleted the team, holding down the sun field. Another hustler and steady batter, “Red will be missed next year. Capable substitutes were “Woody” Titcomb, and “Bunny” Storti in the outfield, and “Jackie” Collins at first base. As there are only three members of the squad grad¬ uating, Dinsmore, Weeks, and Brennan, R. H. S. can look forward to a real threat in Reading next year. The schedule for the season follows: April 25 Stoneham 15 Reading 6 April 29 Concord 5 Reading 24 May 3 Winchester 14 Reading 4 May 5 Maynard 7 Reading 4 May 9 Lexington 5 Reading 6 May 12 Belmont 15 Reading 17 May 16 Stoneham 13 Reading 5 May 19 Belmont 22 Reading 0 May 23 Concord 7 Reading 8 May 26 Winchester 9 Reading 5 May 29 Wakefield Reading May 31 Lexington Reading June 2 Maynard Reading Frank Weeks ’39 BASEBALL CHATTER Coach: “Hurry up, Brennan!” “Red”: “Aw gee, Coach, Pm not the slowest guy in the world.” Coach: “No? The other guy died!” “Stinky” Davis, formerly of the R. H. S. pitching staff, is currently starring for Mudville Tech! “Dick” Lawlor: “Oh boy! Oh boy! I’m the leading batter on this team. Why, I’m batting 1.000—none out none.” Stephanian: “How many hits did you get, Frank?” Weeks: “Just fou r.” (Modest Frank). “Punchy” Brennan ought to be in vaudeville. His performances in the locker room were greatly appreciat¬ ed, eh Coach? “Little Sir Echo”—that popular hit of the baseball team, “Obie” 0 Brien. Warren Hill is going to Long Island next year. Good Luck, “Hilly.” _ “There’s a fiy!” Titcomb coming in for it, Quinlan going out for it: CRASH ! ! ! ! “John, where did you get that black eye?” Tony the barber in Mayor Kane’s little metropolis is a current friend of our squad. Irving Holcomb ’40 Thirty-one THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 TENNIS TEAM First row: Herbert Grimes, Kenneth Coombs, Ralph Meuse, Rae Amback, Chester Gunn. Second row: Asst. Coach Lyons, Clark Nyman, Edward Greenlaw, Franklin Bryant, Robert Sullivan, Coach Althoff GOLF—1939 First row: Harry Barr, Arthur Hopkins, Anthony Sarcone, John Donovan, Richard Higgins. Second row: Horace Landers, Donald Hills, Richard Fellow ' s, Stanley Davis, Coach Spencer. Thirty-tuo 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER TENNIS On April 13, the 1939 Tennis Team prospects re¬ ported to Coach Althoff for their first session. On every Tuesday and Thursday the team has been reporting to Coach Althoff to demonstrate skill at the game and to correct individual faults of playing. From the material that was available, a first class team has been drawn for the current season. Moreover, championship teams should be due for the next two years from the splendid group of reserves. The team members for this season include Rae Amhack, Edward Greenlaw, Robert Sulli¬ van, Clark Nyman, Kenneth Coombs, Chester Gunn, Ralph Meuse, and “Dick ’ Lewis. The schedule for the season is as follows: May 11 Wakefield at Reading May 16 Stoneham at Reading May 18 Danvers at Reading May 23 Reading at Stoneham May 25 Reading at Danvers June 1 Reading at Malden Edward Greenlaw ’39 GOLF Golf requires a lot of skill and is a physical work out as well as a mental one. The physical part is easy for most of us, but we have been known to lose our heads, especially at practice. Of course, we of the R. H. S. team are not professionals; we play more than anything else for the enjoyment of the sport. We are fortunate this year in having Mr. Spencer as our coach and we want to express at this time our appreciation of the mterest that he has taken in the team. We have been lucky in having four of last year’s regulars back—Higgins, Sarcone, Donovan and Hopkins —and a last year’s sub, Barr. A new comer to the team is Lander. The team needs to have subs in case the teachers decide they can’t do without any of our little group. Our subs this year are Ellison, Fellows, and Hills. We have not been successful on the fairways as yet, having lost our first three matches. A little more prac¬ tice should set up our shots with more crispness and put us in the victory column. Arthur Hopkins ’39 FOOTBALL — 1938 First row: Albert Stephanian, George Powell, Richard Stratton, Ralph Keating, John Quinlan, William Connelly, Robert Waugh. Second row: Coach Holgerson, Stewart Watkins, Willard Perkins, John Hrynowsky, Gilbert McQuesten, Albert Dinsmore, Richard Lawler. Thirty-three THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 GIRLS ' ATHLETICS BASKETBALL First row: Edith Olson, Doris Kelly, Dorothy Macmann, Marion Gray, Sonia Courossi, Barbara Marshall, Jeanette Davis, Marjorie Crosby, Kois Knapp, Gladys White, Mary Norton, Josephine Powell. Second row: Alice Johnston, Evelyn Shaw, Marjorie Maguire, Betty Beaudry, Beatrice O’Donnell, Astrid Johns on, Barbara Currie, Betsy Foxcroft, Constance Scharton, Margit Courossi, Florence Duggan, Kathryn Conron, Virginia Perkins. Third row: Marjorie MacLeod, Frances Madden, Alice Goodwin, Bette Kimball, Betty Miller, Olive Skane, Esther Frotten, Dorothy Arnett, Edith Kimball, Kathleen Brown, Stella Pollitz. Fourth row: Elsie Mason, Jean Dow, Dorothy Stratton, Barbara Bryant. GIRLS’ BASKETBALL With a determined will to “do or die” for dear old Reading, the girls began to prepare for another basket¬ ball season. Having plenty of good promising material (as we always do), prospects looked pretty bright for the ensuing playoff. 1 he Seniors who reported and re¬ mained courageously throughout the season were Cap- lain Barbara Marshall, Catherine Powell, Mary Norton. Marjorie Crosby, Gladys White, Astrid Johnson, Marion Gray, Doris Kelly, Edith Olson, Dorothy Macmann, Lois Knapp. Juniors included Captain Jeanette Davis, Betty Miller, Bette Kimball, Kathleen Browne, Barbara Cur¬ rie, Olive Skane, Betty Beaudry, Catherine Conron, Mar¬ git Courossi. Betsy Foxcroft, Margery Maguire, Mary Maguire. Sophomores were Captain Sonia Courossi, Eleanor and Evelyn Shaw, Jean Dow, Dorothy Stratton, Edith Kimball, Elsie Mason, Dorothy Arnett, Barbara Bryant, Florence Duggan, Esther Frotten, Marjorie Mac¬ Leod, Stella Pollitz, Frances Madden, Barbara Jones, Constance Scharton, Betty Shannon, Lillian Davies. We started the season by journeying “a la Mason” to Arlington, where we threw out the anchor and stop¬ ped awhile. Here the Reading girls had quite a job sub¬ duing the frisky Arlingtonites and in the end were over¬ come by said opponents. This, the first game, was a loss with the score as follows: Seniors, 20-23; Juniors, 11-40; Sophomores, 10-19. The next week, undaunted by the previous loss, we entertained Winchester here. We certainly entertained them all right (?) for our Seniors and Juniors just com¬ pletely outclassed theirs with the score Seniors, 30-12; Juniors, 25-16. However, at the end of the Sophomore game, the Reading girls found themselves a bit on the short end, with the score 14-20. Next we trekked over to ye olde Lexington town, where we met with some fine opposition which, however, all of our teams easily quelled—although the Seniors had a bit of a struggle. The final scores were Seniors, 11-5; Juniors, 22-14; Sophomores, 22-2. We took on a new opponent this year when we journeyed to Melrose; with the spirit to win, we entered their newly equipped gymnasium, but how could we help it if fate was against us! Anyway, the Seniors took quite a beating to the tune of 21-10. The Juniors, how¬ ever, came through with a win, 29-25. The Sophomores were just “done wrong in this game, because they were leading throughout but somehow found themselves minus on a point, losing the game 22-23. Oh, the irony of it all! Thirty-four 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER TENNIS First row: Elsie Mason, Betty Beaudry, Frances Madden, Helen Farr, Florence Duggan, Sonia Courossi, Lois Knapp, Constance Scharton, Marjorie Wright Barbara Tasney, Edith Arsenault, Jeanette Davis. Second row: Alice Johnston, Eleanor Shaw, Virginia Perkins, Kathryn Conron, Betsy Foxcroft, Margit Courossi, Edith Olson Dorothy Macmann, Barbara Currie, Marjorie Maguire, Virginia Davis, Theo Farr. Third row: Frances McLaughlin, Betty JAne Parks, Jean Danforth, Barbara Gonnam, Betty Miller, Alice Goodwin, Bette Kimball, Kathleen Brown. Doris Kelly, Olive Skane, Phyllis Garey, Lillian Davies. Fourth row: Mary Maguire, May Melanson, Carolyr Lumsden, Jean Dow, Priscilla Nichols, Dorothy Stratton Barbara Bryant, Dorothy Arnett, Stella Pollitz. Our old arch rivals from Wilmington paid us a visit one fine day, so we decided to indulge in a bit of basket¬ ball. We tried very hard but somehow the Seniors couldn’t come through, losing 25-14. Were our faces red! The J uniors and Sophomores, however, upheld the name of Reading by winning, 22-20 and 26-8 respec¬ tively. From this point we went to visit our Stoneham neighbors. We had quite a nice reception over there (as we always do) and we easily won all three games and had a lot of fun doing it. Our opponents tried hard, but we had the old winning spirit behind us. Scores: Seniors 33-3; Juniors 22-7; Sophomores 35-11. We ended a great season by completely subduing akefield. There may be rivalry between the boys’ teams of Reading and Wakefield, but as far as girls’ teams go, Wakefield had better do a little mor e practic¬ ing to rival us. (Ahem!) Seriously, we like the Wakefield girls and had good games, with the final scores as fol¬ lows: Seniors 24-11; Juniors 19-16; Sophomores 42-5. We Seniors end our last season by extending best wishes and luck to the Juniors and Sophomores for big¬ ger and better Reading basketball teams. All of us want to thank Miss Nichols, our coach, for her wondrous patience and direction through so many trying but un¬ usual and thrilling experiences. Dorothy Macmann ’39 TENNIS With the first signs of spring the girls started to polish their rackets and prepare for another tennis sea¬ son. On Mondays and Wednesdays the advanced group could be seen vigorously hitting tennis balls against the walls in the gym, while a few beginners hung around try¬ ing to get some pointers for their practice days, which were Tuesdays and Thursdays. It wasn’t long before the tournaments had begun, and once more we played our game at Memorial Park on Monday and Wednesday afternoons. There are two kinds of tournaments the girls play: the Round Robin and the Ladder Tournaments. The Round Robin is for girls who are trying for a tennis letter and the Ladder for girls who wish to be on the tennis team. The team, which at present consists of Dorothy Macmann, Bette Kimball, Alice Goodwin, Mae Melanson, and Betty Dalton, lost a match at Malden on May 16. We are not discouraged, however, as this was the first contest of the season, and we hope to do bigger and better things within the next few weeks. There is lots of competition in either tournaments, so all you “ten¬ nis hopefuls” smooth out those corners and keep on playing this summer; we ll be looking for you when we sign up in the fall. Alice Goodwin ’40 Thirty-five THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 3 9 HOCKEY First row: Lois Knapp, Astrid Johnson, Barbara Marshall, Marjorie Crosby. Gladys White, Mary Norton. Second row: Jeanette Davis, Alice Johnston, Eleanor Shaw, Frances Madden, Elsie Mason, Beatrice O’Donnell Third row: Edith Olson, Marjorie Owen, Doris Kelly, Jean Dow, Olive Skane, Dorothy Macmann. BOWLING Because we Reading girls were so successful last year in our first attempt to bowl, we again entered the Boston American Bowling Tournament at the Huntington Club Alleys. A few weeks before the match, a number of girls went down to the bowling alleys behind “Friend’s ' and bowled two or three strings. The fol¬ lowing day in school, one might have noticed that a few of us were edging along, being particularly careful how we moved our arms. The second meeting, in spite of our obvious discomfort, brought forth some new recruits, but after two or three more practices the number dwindled down to eight girls. These eight—Theo Farr, Marian Goodridge, Olivia Herson, Shirley Johnson, Dorothy Macmann, Priscilla Nichols, Catherine Powell, and Marjorie Wentworth— went into the Huntington Club on a rainy afternoon to find out their standing in the bowling world. Catherine Powell actually became the girls’ champion of the world for a day! Her triumph was short and sweet, however, for last year’s winner surpassed “Jodie’s” final score by three points. Priscilla Nichols, a newcomer this year, came in fifth in the final score. This should encourage those of you who’ve been hesitant about qualifying for the team. Marian Goodridge 39 SWIMMING Th is year none of the girls went swimming at the Malden V. M. C. A. so regularly as they have in previous years because of many interfering activities. Among those who did find time for such pleasant sport, however, were Marjorie Crosby, Dorothy Macmann, Jeanette Davis, Bette Kimball, Mary Norton, Gladys White, Betty Dalton, Dorothy Babcock, Allie Benton, and Barbara Marshall. We didn’t mind the chill of the water in the pool, but oh those icy showers afterwards! Sometimes our chauffeur and director, Miss Nichols, got splashed a bit when attempting to clear the pool at the end of our time limit—quite accidently, we assure you! If she granted us one more dive apiece, as she always did, we took two or three for good measure. When she perceived that her patience was indeed exhausted we gave in with¬ out further delay. She was always such a good sport that we never failed to have a few extra minutes for a swan, a jack, a pike, one of “Midge’s” specials, or a plain “flop” I the commonest of all fancy dives with us). Barba r a Marshall 39 BACKWARD GLANCES The members of the Senior Basketball Team decid¬ ed that a certain little team mate of theirs needed to be cooled off in the so-called bird bath. How is the water, Lois? We had a mighty full-back on our hockey team who has decided that from now’ on she will yell “Fore” so that the referee will know when the ball is coming. Hi, Astrid. Who was it that inspired our little “Junior Girl” to make one basket after another? Was it “Red”? “No, no, no, no!” I Or was it, Jeanette?) Continued on Page 37 Thirty-six 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER Here we go again with another column acknowledg¬ ing the many excellent publications which have been re¬ ceived during the last few months. Starting us off this time is “The Focus” from Saugus High School. Its most outstanding feature is the news hut more emphasis is needed on the literary side. From Brockton way comes a superb newspaper known as “Brocktonia. Nothing could be done to improve it, so completely is everything covered. Another paper of almost equally high calibre comes to us from Slate Teachers College out in Fitchburg. “The Stick contains a great deal of well written news. Concord High School sends along “The Voice”, which covers the news well but could stand a bit of humor. The editorials are the best feature of Rochester, N. H’s. “Red and White”, which is—all considered—an exemplary publication. Another such outstanding magazine is “The Mirror” from Waltham High School. It is difficult to decide up¬ on an outstanding feature so commendable are they all. A new exchange comes from Wilmington. “The Alpha” is a neat, compact magazine with a great deal of stress placed on the school news and gossip section. “The School Spirit , which hales from the David Hale Fanning Trade School for Girls in Worcester, is quite different from any other we receive. It even goes so far as to feature fashions, but we must say that it is an excellent piece of work. For its size, “The Johnson Journal from North Andover contains many and varied interesting features. Another good number is Woburn’s “Reflector. Most outstanding of its features are the well executed editorials. From another neighboring town, Stoneham to be exact, comes “The Authentic” with its extremely clever roll call and humorous sketches. “The Clipper,” pride and joy of Hyannis, is a fine all round magazine which contains some beautiful wood- cuts. By way of the high seas comes Gloucester, England’s “Cryptian,” the photographs of which add ?. lot to the enviable news section. Nashville, Tennessee should feel proud of its com¬ pact magazine “The Echo”, about which nothing critical can be said. “The Cub”, which comes to us from Ipswich, should improve its literary section so it won’t be overshadowed by the well written school news. Last of all is Milton High’s clever number “The Unquity Echo”, which contains in perfect arrangement all that could be desired. The end has come and so—our thanks to all of you who have so generously contributed to this column dur¬ ing the past year. May you continue to flourish in years to come! Polly Stembridge ’39 BACKWARD GLANCES Continued from Page 36 A well-known junior girl joined the basketball team this year, but we often wonder if she stayed for basket¬ ball just in order to meet a certain train and a certain person on time. Choo-choo, Betsy, here he comes! Then there is that beautiful blonde, who after two years of basketball finally made a basket. Oh, wonder of wonders! What certain group was it that preferred riding home in a car rather than in Mason’s Blue Streak? The less said the better. “Believe it or not” Currie now says she got a black eye while playing basketball with Wilmington, but we sometimes wonder. One night after practice while we were waiting for “Crosby”, we discovered that she was washing her feet! What’s the matter with home? Although the “Norton and White” combination worked well this year, the girls did quite a bit of fooling on the side-lines. We noticed! Marjorie Crosby ’39 Lois Knapp ’39 Thirty-seven THE PIONEER Rending High School 19 3 9 CLASS BANQUET SELECTIONS PROPHECY OF THE CLASS OF ’39 We present herewith, in letter form, the reports of the three chosen delegates appointed by the alumni com¬ mittee of the Class of 1939 to make a survey of occupa¬ tions of the members of the said class. The three dele¬ gates left Reading, Massachusetts, the morning of June seventh, nineteen hundred and sixty, on a world tour to locate various members of the said class. They are, in the order of their reports, Irene Sztucinski—an emi¬ nent sculptress; Barbara Marshall, well-known for her water colors; and His Honor Richard Childs, Mayor of Reading, Massachusetts. June 28, 1960 Hollywood, California Reading Alumni Association Dear Sirs: As you know, we have divided our trip around the world into three parts, each of us reporting on a third of the trip; so, without further introduction or ado, I shall proceed with my report on the first leg of our journey. On Thursday morning, June 7, at 10 o’clock, a group of upstanding Readingites gathered at Reading Common to send farewells to their departing delegates. The sun was shining brightly, and the birds were chirp¬ ing merrily as we three turned in the seat of our auto¬ gyro to wave our last adieu. As we waved, we could pick out familiar faces that belonged to vigorously waving arms in the crowd. There were the former Irene Orben and Eva Doucette, both long since married to successful men, and that woman over there holding the baby up at us was no other than Kathleen Walsh. Good¬ ness, there stood in all his glory Ralph Melendy, who owns the store formerly owned by Francis Brothers. 1 he last person we could make out in the crowd was Blanche Koptuck, who, as I told His Honor Mayor Childs, is the new business teacher at the Junior High School. It seemed that just as we settled ourselves comfort¬ ably we arrived in our auto-gyro at Beacon Hill, and there at the door of one of the fashionable new glass homes stood our charming hostess and popular socialite, Helen Connelly. Miss Connelly, known as the second Elsa Maxwell, planned to give one of those original pent-house parties, in fact the first pent-house party at Beacon Hill, for us that night, so after a delicious lunch¬ eon of well-seasoned nutritious mineral and vitamin capsules, Miss Marshall and I went shopping while Mr. Childs went on some sort of last minute business. Of course we went to “Gertrude’s Chapeau ’, and straight¬ way went to Miss MacMillan herself, who manages the shop, and then to Eflie Wildon, her designer. Effie proved her efficiency by designing some of those spun rayon and glass creations molded to fit the head, and of course we took them. Back at Miss Connelly’s (we called her Helen by then ) we dressed for the party, and in no time guests ailived. The evening was not too warm, but the moon wasn t out so the artificial moon was turned on. We were surprised to see among the first guests Richard Snyder, manager of next year’s World Fair, which is to be held in Boston, and Roger Mussells, who is supervis¬ ing a lot of surveying for the fair. Earlier in the evening, Helen told us she had en¬ gaged Kitty Tebeau’s “Raz-ma-Taz Band” so we weren’t suipiised to see Kitty direct, but we were surprised to see the shiny faces of Albert Blasi and “Bob” Morrissey in the band, and especially the well-known drummer, “Austie” Bennett, who played an intriguing solo. Then Mary Noiton, the vocalist, appeared in one of those stunning mashed steel-and-glass dresses. Following Mary’s solo, Alfred Burbine and Mary Robbins did a Raz-ma Taz” dance number, but just then someone nudged me. Mayor Childs led in Jean Nichols and in¬ ti oduced her to us as Countess Sergei Nicholai. It seems she had just eloped with the count; it was a surprise! As we chatted, I happened to notice two familiar faces. It was—no it couldn’t be—oh yes, it was! Then Helen came over and introduced us to Dr. Dorothy Macmann, Dean of Women at Boston University, and her escort, Dr. Carl Pinkham, professor of mathematics at M. I T We certainly were overwhelmed. Since all good things have to end, we were on our vva ) out of Boston in our auto-gyro once again, heading for New York accompanied by a police escort, the famous G-Women, the Clark twins, and state-trooper Gordon Abbott. Seeking information we met Alice Gill, head of the information bureau. Alice informed us that had we come a moment sooner, we should have met Edward Watson, who runs the famous Watson fruit stands all over the country. She also told us that Myles O ' Donnell was now having his hands full as keeper of the Bronx Zoo. Leaving and thanking Alice, we went on to do some shopping at Saks on 34th , where we met Linda Tworn- bly, who told us that she had just returned from a trip abroad. She was a buyer for Saks, we learned. Just as we were leaving, whom should we bump into but Phyl¬ lis Downs. Phyllis, you probably have heard already, is president of the stock exchange and doing quite well. Phyllis invited us to a party at Ralph Meuse’s “Banana Grove , but since we already had an earlier engagement, we promised to drop in before retiring. That night we donned opera clothes and soon found ourselves in Carnegie Hall listening to the hauntingly mellow strains of Richard Stratton’s part of Mephisto- phelis from I aust. After the opera we kept our promise Thirty-eight 19 3 9 Rending High School THE PIONEER to Phyllis, and we whizzed down to the “Banana Grove”, where we saw more familiar faces. Ralph Meuse in¬ formed us that he employed Carl Gilman as his gigolo and Edith Brown as his bouncer. We saw Edith use her gentle tactics of removing an undesirable personage from the “Banana Grove”, and we must admit she was successful. Phyllis Downs was very glad to have us join her party, in which were Helen O’Dowd, the song¬ writer, with an unknown escort and Roy Tebbetts, the famous car-designer. At our hotel once more, we packed, and left New York in our space ship. Our first stop next morning was Hilton Airport in South Carolina to refuel. A tobacco auction was being held next door, and Edward Perry, of all people, was auctioneer. As we were in a hurry, we departed for Kentucky and for Gladys Hall’s farm, where she raises blue-blood¬ ed horses. Among Gladys’s famous jockeys are Edward Arsenault and Raymond King, both nationally known. Once more in the air we headed for Texas and Paul Petzold’s Dude Ranch. We received a cordial reception from Lennart Johnson, Fred Burrow’s, and Mildred Lor- geree, who had turned cowboys and cowgirl, respective¬ ly. Shyly sitting on the corral fence, Astrid Johnson was spied smiling at us wistfully. Astrid, since you don’t know, is champion lariat thrower of the world. We stayed at the ranch till morning and then left for California, arriving there early in the afternoon. Phil¬ lip Sears, Lois Newhouse’s press agent, met us at the airport. Lois, he said, is still tearing around Beverly Hills in her Jezebel making every male heart flutter. “Phil” picked up a newspaper and showed us Walter Winchell’s column in which M. G. M. studio has an¬ nounced the final, and absolutely the last, casting of “Gone With the Wind”. Our own Carmela Cannuli is to take the part of Scarlett O’Hara, with Warren Good¬ win as Rhett Butler, her leading man. Janet Lawson has the part of Melanie while Beatrice O’Connell, Mar¬ jorie Mack, and Harriet Cahill have various miscel¬ laneous parts. “I hope they don ' t change their minds this time”, grumbled “Phil”, and w ' e also agreed as we were being bundled into an auto-gyro. Away we went on a tour of the towm. We stopped at “Larry” Good¬ win’s photography studio, where “Dot” Colburne and Theresa Hutchinson were modeling for him. We are on our way now to Lima, Peru, where w r e shall stay at the governor’s house. Respectfully submitted, Irene Sztucinski, Delegate No. 1 September 8, 1960 Ulrichen, Switzerland Reading Alumni Association Dear Sirs: Here we are in the little Swiss Village of Ulrichen. “Ken Turner, the ski instructor here in the Alps, has made us entirely at home in his comfortable lodge. As my companions. Miss Sztucinski and the Honorable Mr. Childs, are attempting a bit of skiing, I shall take this opportunity to report upon the success of the trip be¬ ginning at Lima, South America, where the Royal Gov¬ ernor entertained us at his elaborate home with a con¬ cert in which two of our talented classmates, Dorothy Harrow and Marjorie Jewett, were, indeed, piano and violin queens. At the moment when the strains of music were most gentle, we were greatly disturbed by a loud clamor and general upheaval in the streets caused by numerous rioters who seemed to be under the obnoxious leadership of Helen Westcott and Marion Gray! Among the palms of Waikiki, Hawaii, much to my pleasure, I discovered my former chum and locker-part¬ ner, Ruth Johnson, performing wonders as a sand artist. The warm evening moon adds much to the charm of the Island. As we lounged about, we watched the alluring movements of the Hula Hula chorus girls, among whom I easily recognized the graceful figure of Gladys White, in spite of the typical grass skirt and wreath in which she danced so gaily. While I was engaged in light con¬ versation about old school days with her, Miss Sztucin¬ ski and the Honorable Mayor interviewed Arthur Hop¬ kins, Cleveland Blaisdell, and “Dick” Dacey, who have established themselves in this far off land as perfect playboys. In Hong Kong, Miss Sztucinski and I entered a neat little garment shop distinctly of American origin in search of a dress or two, with no idea that we should come face to face with Marjorie Gale, the owner, and Aileen Herrick, designing baby clothes! We have found our valedictorian, Ruth Pollitz, fill¬ ing the dictatorship of Fu Ching, China, with Andrew McLaughlin, her faithful “Please Excuse’ man. Doris Kelly is also here, on business quite different, however, that of studying the psychological reactions of Chinese children in comparison with those of other countries. There is a prosperous little inn on the Road to Mandalay run by Dorothea Galvin, from whom we learned of the wonderful missionary work Jean Mar- stellar has done among the people of India. As we were flying over a portion of Persia, we observed a tiny speck on the earth, which we later learned from a fellow passenger was none other than the ambitious archeolo¬ gist, Guy Ellison. This country is well-known for its handsome shieks. Harold Richardson and Earl Sargent have joined the clan. At the time when we accidently dropped in upon them, they were in the midst of great festivity in honor of Edward Greenlaw, the “Shoe-String King and his entourage, with Dorothy Doucette, his secretary, Thirza Fisher, his stenographer, and Dorothy Foster, another stenographer, accompanying him. In ancient Jerusalem we renewed our acquaintance with Marjorie Wellington, who introduced us to the Jewish boys and girls who are thriving in her famous Thirty-nine THE PIONEER Rending High School 19 3 9 orphanage. We also went to the American Legation, where we found Pauline Eames as Acting Consul. Near a sparkling oasis, midway in the Sahara Desert with its great sand dunes and dusty caravans, we spied a hospital superintended by Virginia Lester, with Natalie Pitman and Audrey Nicholson as her secretaries. “Dick” Knud- son is the surgeon. Marguerite Lane is his pretty per¬ sonal private secretary. The nurses, Marion Bassett, Dorothy Evans, and Alma Putnam, do wonders within the ward, where Ralph Keating is rapidly recovering from a sensational wrestling match with Frank Dins- more. Kenneth Coombs is recovering from a hard fall that he received while playing his film role as Tarzan, and he tells us that Claire Brigham was his mate in the film. Helen Madden is suffering painfully from mumps, for which there seems to be no remedy. In Algiers, Newell MacKenzie encountered us for some unknown reason. He is an officer of the law, but refrained from dealing too harshly with us. Some mem¬ bers of the Foreign Legion—namely, Edward Beaudry, Roland Stuart, Edward Bradley, Stewart Watkins, and Lawrence MacLeod—were there and looked quite im¬ portant in their uniforms. Deep in the jungles of Africa, we located Marjorie Crosby, the man-hunter, traveling with only two or three husky native guides. We found Lois Knapp fomenting agitation on the Rock of Gibraltar in behalf of the Communistic interests. Margaret Rigione read our fortunes to us when we visited her tiny Gypsy tea-room in the heart of Bohemia. And did you realize that Damon VanBuskirk is the suc¬ cessor to Stalin of Russia, and that Catherine Powell is the World Champion Woman Bowler competing in Rus¬ sia this year! This concludes the extent of our survey thus far. Tomorrow 7 we shall again pursue our journey to Paris, our next goal. Since Miss Sztucinski and I have done our alloted shares, we shall leave the remainder of the task to Your Honorable Mayor Richard Childs. Respectfully submitted, Barbara Marshall, Delegate No. 2 December 9, 1960 Reading, Massachusetts Reading Alumni Association Dear Sirs: We are nearing the last of our journey, but there are still quite a number of the class to account for. We made the short hop from Switzerland to Berlin in less than an hour. Bertha Page is a social worker in the Ghetto of this large city, and she was really surprised to see us. After a short visit, we flew ' to Paris, where we found quite a few members residing in the Bohemian colony. “Jimmie” Heselton is a great success as a sur¬ realist, and Bette Merrill is noted for her studio parties. At these parties, one finds Mildred Gill, who is the toast of the town as the premiere danseuse of the Russian Ballet, which is playing at the Comcdie Francaise. Nor¬ ma Charles, also, attends; by the way, she has written several best-sellers. Of course, we couldn ' t miss the Riviera, so off we hopped. Here, we found that Madam • Delong’s Salon is quite the place. You will remember the proprietress as Claire Delong; she employs a hair¬ dressers extraordinary May Peters and Mildred Arse¬ nault. Our next hop was some distance, but we simply had to go and see John Hilchey, who has inherited a peerage and has become a laird in Scotland. The first thing he did w as to appoint his bosom friend, Kenyo l Hicks, as the leader of his hundred bag pipe band. Then, we took a compartment on an express to London, where we rented a car to drive out to the coun¬ try home of Polly Stembridge, whom the tabloids call the “power behind the throne and “a second Lady As tor”. We were traveling along somewhat above the speed limit when a whistle brought us to an abrupt halt. Lloyd Chisholm sauntered over and asked us where the fire was. We had been driving on the wrong side of the road as well as speeding! While we were talking, a car came by with Marion Goodridge, Muriel Penney, and Edith Olson in it. They explained that they were on their way to visit John in his castle. We finally arrived at Denclive, Polly’s home. She was nearly in hysteria over the antics of Jane Tanner, who is an anarchist agi¬ tator in London, so we couldn’t stay. Poor Polly! She didn’t know what strings to pull to get Jane out of hock. We drove right back to town on the right side of the road, or rather the left. We just had time to catch the plane for Cuba. When we arrived at the field, “Bob” Pratt was already supervising the tuning up of the en¬ gine. The pilot and the co-pilot swaggered up; they turned out to be Milton Gray and “Dick” Austin with quite a crowd of admiring females that always gather when the “fleet’s in”. We had two lovely hostesses for our trip, who are also of Reading ’39, Mildred Murphy and Doris Gray. Ruth Titcomb and Theresas McGrath were on hand to welcome us; Ruth was vacationing, and Theresa lives on the island. “Gerry” Beaudry had his yacht ready to run to Florida. We were met at the dock by Everett Brown, manager of the B’s. The team was in training camp, so we went out to see it. ‘Red” Brennan, “Al” Dinsmore, “Jake” Powell, and “Bob” Waugh were among the familiar faces on the team. At the end of our journey, we took a plane for home. “Bea” Griffin was waiting with her auto-gyro, the latest model, to take us from the East Boston airport to Reading. Home at last; how good it seemed! But “Bea” didn’t take us home; instead she took us up to Dorothy Smith’s where there was a wel¬ coming party. What a party it was! Tooley’s Dairy furnished gobs and gobs of ice cream. Frank Weeks was the toastmaster; he is like a Tom Dewey in Read¬ ing—no one is safe from his scrutiny. Annette Benton was there for a short time, although she is very busy Forty 1. Gordon Abbott 2. Richard Knudson 3. Marion Gray 4. Mary Norton 5. Janet Lawson 6. John Hilchey 7. Jane Tanner 8. Lois Newhouse 9. Richard Childs 10. Polly Stembridge 11. Ruth Pollitz 12. Paul Petzold 13. Lennart Johnson 14. Lawrence MacLeod 15. Barbara Marshall 16. Kenyon Hicks 17. Richard Stratton 18. Carl Pinkham 19. Marjorie Jewett 20. Marjorie Mack 21. Dorothv Macmann 22. Edith Brown 23. Beatrice O’Connell 24 Dorothy Foster 25. May Peters 26. Natalie Pitman 27. Eva Doucette 28. Beatrice O’Donnell 29. Everett Brown 30. Francis Brennan 31. Earl Sargent 32. Edward Greenlaw 33. Alfred Burbine 34. Roland Stewart 35. Ralph Keating 36. Linda Twombly 37. Cleveland Blaisdell 38. Irene Orben 39. Dorothy Colbern 40. Mildred Arsenault 41. Annette Benton 42. Harriett Cahill 43. Mildred I.orgeree 44. Ruth Johnson 45. Edward Perry 46. Effie Wilden 47. Dorothy Harrow 48. Theresa McGrath 49. Claire Brigham 50. Astrid Johnson 51. Helen Wescott 52. Marjorie Wellington 53. Carl Gilman 54. Helen Connelly 55. Marjorie Gale 56. Norma Charles 57. Kenneth Coombs 58. Marguerite Lane 59. Dorothea Galvin 60. Doris Kelly 61. Theresa Hutchinson 62. Phillip Sears 63. Louise Clarke 64. Marjorie Clarke 65. Elizabeth Merrill 66. Jean Marstaller 67. Andrew MacLaughlin 68. Phyllis Downs Forty-one THE PIONEER Reading High School 19 39 with her nursery school, to which Beatrice O’Donnell, Olivia Hersom, and Ruth Jewett send their children. Marian Ober and Etta Wood were there, full of fun, and also Shirley Johnson, who has discovered a gold vein in her back yard. Eleanor Madden was the guest speaker; she is popular as a speaker on psychiatry, in which field she is an expert. Marian Call, as head of Reading s Antiquarian Society, gave a short history of our town, and the rest of the time we all had a good talk-fest about our school days and the fun we used to have. It really was a grand trip. We never thought the Class of Thirty-Nine would ever spread over the globe as it has done. We were all glad to get back home when we had completed the survey, and so, without any more ado, we submit our report for approval. Respectfully submitted, Richard Childs, Delegate No. 3 CLASS HISTORY Sophomore and Junior Years The class of ’39 entered Reading High in September of 1936. Amid much shrinking from the new and im¬ portant Seniors, who glared importantly when we casu¬ ally asked where our classrooms were, we started our careers in high school. Lustily we cheered our football team on to victory and actively began to participate in school affairs. At our first class meeting, we elected Ruth Pollitz our class president, Dorothy Parker, vice president, Polly Stembridge, secretary, and Marjorie Crosby, treasurer for the coming three years. We shared alike with Juniors and Seniors a desire for elevators to zip us skyward to the third floor with no effort at all on our part. Yet a still more fervent desire was for bigger and better assembly halls when we (poor, innocent Sophomores) had to stand through two hour assemblies. With money collected from class dues, we held our Sophomore Hop in May. The decorations were the re¬ sult of the arduous labor of the art classes and were very effective. I am sure no one need be reminded of our entertainment and Gladys HalPs superb tap dance on roller skates. Miss Simon is hereby willed a barrel of credit for her efficient help in setting the Sophomores on their wobbly feet. June approached with much cram¬ ming for finals and then—lo; and behold!—we were Juniors. The summer vacation passed all too quickly and we found ourselves again sheltered under the Reading High School roof. My, how our classmates had grown, or may¬ be it was because the Sophomores were growing smaller every year. As we held our first Junior class meeting and elected James Heselton, Dick Knudson, and Bette Mer¬ rill as our class officers, Mr. Halpin told us that our financial status had not improved any since our all-im¬ portant hop. Thus it was with more collecting of dues that we managed a Junior Prom—and a gala event it was, too. Spring brought “A More Perfect Union”, a pageant written by Mr. Dixon. It was to commemorate the sesquicentennial of the signing of the Constitution of the United States. Those appearing from our class were Richard Childs, Gordon Abbott, John Hilchey, Newell MacKenzie, Roland Stuart, and Austin Bennett. About this time, Mr. Fitzgerald brought forth class rings. We crowded around the bulletin board with wide-open mouths at the beautiful display. ( Many of us are still displaying them—the mouths !) With summer approach¬ ing, Senior thoughts turned to graduation and the Junior Senior reception, while we Juniors let Mr. Halpin do our share of the worrying about the matter. However, we finally became serious and planned the reception. The walls of the assembly hall were attractively adorned with sea creatures, and a mass of colored balloons deco¬ rated the chandeliers. To our anxious inquiries, the Seniors (with their mouths full of ice cream and cake) replied that it was “O.K.” and “All right.” A great day it was for us when the Seniors received their diplomas and we stepped into their shoes! Norma Charles ’39 Senior Year—Class of “39” Down the corridors of time came a group of adoles¬ cents, and as they grew, they took longer steps until at lengLh they were anle to take that last great step which permits them to enter into that final year of companion¬ ship with friends who have come along with them. This being the final year together, the class of “39” strove heartily to make this a full and glorious year and took every opportunity which “Lady Luck” and then own ingenuity afforded. First, who can forget the Senior Fair amidst the rustic setting, the blare of the “Jivin ' Jitterbugs”, the cider and suckers, and other constituents of a good time. This occurrence was a success both socially and finan¬ cially. And then—(But first may I quote from the historian of “38”—“I want to give some good, sound advice to the lower class men, to wit: Never trust either the weath¬ erman or the powers thai be—they will always double cross you.—This has been true for two years, and I can see no reason why it shouldn’t be true for at least two more. ' End of quote concerning carnivals of past and future—) “Eureka!” cried the weather man. Had he found oil? No, just snow, and off went three bus loads of lucky Seniors to “The Elms”, where amidst good skiing, tobogganing, and eating, all had a wonder¬ ful time. Along in April came a tim ' of mixed emotions— pleasure for the audience, and agony for a group of our talent. It was “I’ll Leave It to You,” the annual at¬ tempt of Reading High to make Broadway hang its head. Much credit is due to the coach, Mrs. Wiens, and to an excellent cast for making an enjoyable evening for every¬ one. Forty-tuo 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER And now as the past is recorded, new lights are appearing ahead for “39”—“Class Day and then “Graduation —all links in the golden chain of memory. Carl Gilman ’39 CLASS WILL Now as we, the class of 39, approach the end of the “time” which we are “serving in Reading High, we feel that we must present to certain members of our own class and outstanding persons on our faculty, various tokens of our esteem and our appreciation of what they have done for us here in school. To Edward Greenlaw we bequeath this super-effec¬ tive alarm clock, that he may at least get to school by the second bell of the first period. To “Jimmy” Heselton we leave a lonely parking space so that he can enjoy his (s)parking all the more. We will to Kenneth Coombs this box of erasers, all weighted, which he may throw at his leisure. To “Dick” Knudson we leave a self-spelling type¬ writer in order to save his future English teacher head¬ aches. To Lois Newhouse, we bequeath this one way bus ticket to Andover, as the bus goes nearer than the train to the academy. To Ruth Pollitz we leave a substantial trust fund from which she can draw in times of court emergencies. To supplement last year’s class bequest to Mr. Hal- pin of permission to get married, we, the class of ’39, present him with a trousseau just so he can be prepared in case of emergency. We present Mr. Fitzgerald with this beautiful tie so that he may have a better chance in the class vote for favorite teacher. To the Junior Class we leave this splendid penny bank so that they will not have to bother Mr. Halpin with their financial problems next year. We bequeath to Miss Devaney and Miss Stanwood, jointly, this bottle of luscious Coca Cola to relieve their pocketbooks of the strain resulting from their afternoon excursions. To Linda Twombly we present a lovely fur coat in order that she may have a warm welcome when she reaches the destination of her trip this summer. We give to “Bob Morrissey this clarinet refrigera¬ tion system in order to guar d against spontaneous com¬ bustion. To Carl Pinkham we present this set of bobby pins to confine his long beautiful locks so that when someone slaps him on the back those curly ringlets won’t fall forward so often and obscure his vision. “Dick Stratton receives from us this beautiful po¬ tato to remind him always of his beloved Maine. To Richard Childs we leave this course of lessons on how to make love properly. (Guess why?) To Irene Sztucinski we bequeath this length of rope, with which people who are slowly driven crazy by her outbursts of giggling can silence her. We will to Milton Gray these six beautiful oysters, dipped in sugar, with which he can try to win bets as to their “swallowability.” To “Andy” McLaughlin we present this tin medal¬ lion dedicated to his long and faithful service as vice president of the “0. F. F.” To “Dot” Colburne we leave this silver plated nail clip with which to cut off locks of her golden hair to give to ardent admirers. Being of sound mind and body the class of ’39 here¬ by and herewith states that any resemblance to any per¬ son whatsoever—living or dead—is purely coincidental and has no bearing on the case in any shape, size, or figure. John Hilchey ’39 Kenyon Hicks ’39 CLASS ELECTIONS GIRL BOY Marjorie Crosby Carmela Cannuii Ruth Pollitz Beatrice O’Connell Ruth Pollitz Jean Marstellar Jean Marstellar Marjorie Crosby Astrid Johnson Most Popular Best Looking Joy of Faculty bane of Faculty Harold Richardson Richard Austin Richard Stratton Milton Gray Ideal R. H. S. student Richard Stratton Most Ambitious Most Studious Best Athlete Wittiest Catherine Tebeau Class Baby (Age) Bette Merrill Marjorie Crosby Ruth Pollitz Dorothy Macmann Marjorie Crosby Irene Sztucinski Ruth Pollitz Beatrice O’Connell Jean Marstellar Mary Robbins Helen Connelly Bette Merrill Jeanette Davis Miss Ernst Marjorie Crosby Astrid Johnson Jean Marstellar Polly Stembridge Polly Stembridge Gladys Hall Linda Twombly Lois Newhouse Class Clown Best Natured Busiest Most Modest Most Versat.le Most Original Most Likely to Succeed Noisiest Quietest Best Dancer Class Giggler Class Artist Junior Girl (Boy) Favorite Teacher Everybody’s Pal Mcst Bashful Most Respected Most Courteous Tallest Shortest Neatest Funniest Richard Stratton Richard Stratton George Powell Milton Gray Andrew McLaughlin Milton Gray Harold Richardson Richard Knudson Frank Weeks Richard Knudson John Hilchey Richard Stratton Austin Bennett Andrew McLaughlin Charles Dacey Roland Stuart Richard Knudson Thomas Connelly Mr. Dixon Charles Dacey Andrew McLaughlin Richard Stratton Frank Weeks Kenyon Hicks Frank Dinsmore James Heselton Austin Bennett Forty-four Reading High School 1939 THE PIONEER BRIEF TO THE SENIORS We shall miss you and all your little ways— That made us so unhappy Throughout our Sophomore days. Yes, Seniors—we shall miss you; You never will quite know Just how it pains us Juniors to see you go. Now when wt arrive in style In that antiquated bus Well take the good seats And let the others fuss! Ah yes—our hearts are filled with pity— But not for you, we fear. Just for that little Sophomore Who w ill follow us next year! Alice Goodwin ’40 A THOUGHT FOR SENIORS Under a sky that’s gray as steel, Two points off the starboard keel Going—no one knows where or why— Silhouetted against the sky, Churn ing the restless sea to foam Pushing forward on the roam. Black and white, stacks of red, Lines so trim, she plows ahead, Riding bright and free and bold, Driving onward to her goal, Carrying cargoes far and wide, Drifting inward on the tide, Docking at some port of call, Mast so stately, firm, and tall— Oh! If only we could be Like that steamer, bold and free! Carleton Adams ’40 BITS SONG SNATCHES “Heaven Can Wait”—Helen Connelly, Richard Austin “Angels With Dirty Faces”—Football Team “Let’s Stop the Clock”—Assemblies “Deep in a Dream”—Warren Goodwin “Have a Hea rt”—Report Cards “Old Curiosity Shop”—Torre’s—2:30 “So Rare”—Carmela Cannuli “What Are Lil’ Girls Made of”—Ask Mr. Pope “I Go For That”—Vacations “And the Angels Sing”—Glee Club “Lonely Trail”—To the Office “Are You in the Mood for Mischief ?”—“Jodie” Powell “Jitterbug Jamboree”—Beatrice O’Connell, Cath¬ arine Tebeau, Mary Robbins, Edith Brown. “Little Skipper”—“Pipsqueek” “I Get Along Without You Very Well”—Final Exams “The Girl Friend of the Whirling Dervish”— “Dotty” Leach “Stay As Sweet As You Are”—Olivia Hersom “It’s the Little Things That Count”—Gladys Hall “This Is It”—June 21 “Funny Old Hills —North Reading “Afraid of Love”—Everett Brown “Junior”—Milton Gray “Softly As In the Morning Sunrise”—8:15 Bell “Stars In My Eyes”—Senior Play “Gotta Get Some Shut Eye”—Study Periods “Thanks for the Memories”—Seniors Dorothy Doucette ’39 Alice Goodwin ’40 Forty-six 19 3 9 Reading High School THE PIONEER SENIOR BLUES Oh, R. H. S., we’re leaving you To go to distant shores, To be beneath the palm trees Where some green ocean roars. Yes, Senior hearts are heavy As that fatal day draws nigh And we pack our hag and baggage To hid R. H. S. goodbye. We’ll say goodbye to classmates, We’ll say goodbye to books, We’ll say goodbye to teachers And their “cross-eyed” duty looks. But ..I our throats there is a lump That will stay there through the years As we recall the good old days With eyes that dim with tears. We try to think of classmates Who have climbed to happiness— They live the life of Reilly On their laurels of success. Then we remember others And we beg in to grin As we recall the trouble That most of them were in! Oh, we’ll remember R. H. S. And what was trouble then Will seem of little consequence One day when we are men. We’ll remember the Senior Play And we 11 remember “Lover” Childs, Who tried in vain to fight against A beautiful woman’s wiles. But suddenly our smiles are gone Our visages are sad As we remember some mistake That really was quite bad. Oh! Seniors, don’t feel lonely; Oh! Seniors, don’t feel blue, For next year we Juniors Will all be Seniors, too! Carleton Adams ’40 PHILOSOPHY (So Called) The greatest undeveloped territory lies just beneath your hat. The world is part of us, and we are part of it— why not co-operate? You ' ve never seen a heel without a soul, have you? Brains and brawn are two different things, but both are necessities in this world of ours. If you do as well in the world as you do in the cheering section of a football game, you will be some¬ body. The accidents of life are painful, but we learn much from them. We are what we make ourselves, not what we think ourselves. Gordon Abbott ’39 IDYLL OF THE LAKE Did you see the lake this morning When the sun began to rise? Still pools secluded from the current By aged, mossy logs Seemed as black, mysterious depths Whose surfaces unmarred Lay calm, without a ripple or a wave. And o’er the darkened pools the willows (Whose reflections seemed but hiding From themselves in their own shade) Bent in search of lost images, And bowing, washed their leaves. Then across the azure crystal There glistened one golden bar From the farther distant shore To the wavelets lapping near us, Which placid paused to mirror The clouds that passed above. Now as the sun is sinking low And fires the sky with rose The lake reflects the sunset’s flame The day’s last burst of glory Before it bids adieu and bows its head. Night enters And the evening heralds of the spring Chant on into the dark. Bertha Page ’39 Mr. Pope: “Explain and illustrate the effect of heat¬ ing and cooling on a substance.” Pinkham: “Heat causes expansion; cooling, contrac¬ tion. Er—because in summer when it’s hot the days are long; in winter when it’s cold, the days get shorter.’ Beaudry: “Young man, I’m lost, can you tell me where I am?” Hilchey: “Is ther-r-r-r-r-re a r-r-r-rewar-r-r-r-d out fer ye?” Beaudry: “No.” Hilchey: “Then ye’r-r-r-r-re still lost.” “Dick” Austin: “Gee, Four A. M.! I’d better get home before the storm.” “Junie” Gray: “But there’s no storm.” “Dick” Austin: “Don’t worry. There will be when I get home! “Dick” Dacey: “I work eight hours and sleep eight hours.” A voice from nowhere: “Yeah, the same eight hours!” Coach: “They tell me you ' ve been breaking training by eating too much.” Weeks: “Aw, boss, I’ve just been practicing a new windup.” Coach: “What do you mean?” Weeks: “I’ve been eating spaghetti.” Forty-seven GRAY S PUBLIC MARKET 180 Haven Street Frank R. Gray, Prop. We carry a full line of MEAT, FRUIT, FISH and VEGETABLES at lowest market prices. Telephone Reading 1270 Free Delivery CHARLES L. THORNDIKE Main St., Corner Woburn St. Family Shoe Store MEN’S FURNISHINGS LAMS ON HUBBARD HATS ENNA JET TICK SHOES Compliments of M. F. CHARLES SONS DEALER IN SCHOOL SUPPLIES 610 Main Street Sam Bella ' s Barber Shop A modern and sanitary barber shop giving prompt and courteous service. 173 Haven St. Reading ; PRENTISS PARKER, INC. W. H. WIGHTMAN CO. INSURANCE Reading Office Masonic Block Tel. Rea. 0249 Boston Office 40 Broad St. Tel. Hub. 7880 Compliments of ROCKPORT FISH MARKET IN THE SWIM TO WIN FRED F. SMITH, INC. Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Lumber, Plumbing, and Heating Supplies Lime, Brick, Cement, and Sewer Pipe Builder’s Hardware of Every Description 25-37 Hamden St. Phone 0450 EDWARD LAPPIN PLUMBING HEATING - GAS FITTING Agent Malden Melrose Gas Co. 583 Main St. Tel. Rea. 0461 Reading, Mass. Res. Tel. Rea. 1478 FALK’S STUDIO, INC. 177 TREMONT STREET BOSTON, MASS. Regardless of size, reputation or past performance, in photography as in anything else, it is the immediate result and satisfaction you receive year in and year out that counts. So it is, that although our reputation is irreproachable, we are not resting on our laurels but have a definite purpose—to continue our high quality of work and guaranteed satisfaction throughout the future. L. G. BALFOUR COMPANY Attleboro, Massachusetts CLASS RINGS COMMENCEMENT INVITATIONS DIPLOMAS - CUPS - MEDALS - TROPHIES Jeweler to the Senior Class of Reading High School Representative, Nan Lee 234 Boylston St. Boston, Mass. HARRY UPSON CAMP “Light Conditioning” G. E. MAZDA LAMP AGENCY 28 Highland St., Reading Tel. 0835 Licensed Electrician ROYAL C. JAQUES BUILDER AND CONTRACTOR 93 Grand Street Tel. Reading 1453 Reading, Mass. NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY College of Liberal Arts Offers a broad program of college subjects serving as a foundation for the understanding of modern culture, social relations, and technical achievement. The purpose of this program is to give the student a liberal and cultural education and a vocational competence which fits him to enter some specific type of useful employ¬ ment. College of Business Administration Offers a college program with broad and thorough training in the principles of business with specialization in ACCOUNTING, BANKING AND FINANCE, or BUSINESS MANAGEMENT. Modern methods of instruction, including lectures, solution of business problems, class discussions, professional talks by busi¬ ness executives, and motion pictures of manufacturing processes, are used. College of Engineering Provides complete college programs in Engineering with professional courses in the fields of CIVIL, MECHANICAL (with DIESEL, AERONAUTICAL, and AIR CONDITIONING options), ELECTRICAL, CHEMICAL, INDUSTRIAL ENGI¬ NEERING, and ENGINEERING ADMINISTRATION. General engineering courses are pursued during the freshman year; thus the student need not make a final de¬ cision as to the branch of engineering in which he wishes to specialize until the be¬ ginning of the sophomore year. Co-operative Plan The Co-operative Plan, which is available to upperclassmen in all courses, provides for a combination of practical industrial experience with classroom in¬ struction. Under this plan the student is able to earn a portion of his school ex¬ penses as well as to make business contacts which prove valuable in later years. Degrees Awarded Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Science Pre-legal Programs Available FOR CATALOG—MAIL THIS COUPON AT ONCE Northeastern University Director of Admissions Boston, Massachusetts Please send me a catalog of the College of Liberal Arts Pre-legal Program College of Business Administration College of Engineering Name Address AN INDUSTRY OF PROGRESS So prodigious has been the advance of electricity during the last half- century we, today, forget the annoyances and the irritations of the oil lamp era—or the gas light age. Our night dreamers built a new order. At the flick of a switch, we now have a flood of lights. At the touch of a button, a flow of smooth power. The “hare-brained experiments” of yesterday became the indispen- sihle tools and appliances of today. Out of thin air has come the most progressive industrial developments the world has ever known. Truly the electrical industry is an industry of progress. Your Municipal Light Department is in step with this progress. Let us help you solve your electrical problems. ► -------- — Compliments of , HABITS ARE FORMED IN YOUTH ► , GET INTO THE HABIT OF SAVING NOW FIRST NATIONAL MARKET ! , ► THE FI-NA-ST IN ► GROCERIES AND MEATS ] First National Bank Telephone 1642-1643 ► M. J. HEGARTY J. C. OTIS , of ! Reading, Massachusetts i eV EDGERLEY BESSOM ► � FUNERAL SERVICE ► ► Frank Lee Edgerley, Proprietor « ► Funeral Home 743 Main St., Reading j ‘ Member F. D. I. C. ► ► Telephone Reading 0105 — Emerson’s Community Service Station Cor. Lincoln and Prescott Sts. Opposite Reading Depot JENNEY SOLVENIZED HY-POWER AND AERO GASOLINE MODERN LUBRICATION READING TIRE HEADQUARTERS BATTERY SERVICE ACCESSORIES OFFICIAL BRAKE AND LIGHT STATION This I009t Reading organization guarantees satisfaction. Telephone Reading 0916 1 ■� ! --- -- -«■ - - - ... - - ... ’WWW 11 ' WfliPR - ■ . nuAce mounting • io o % M . m. pat or� . CORNERS 4—TRANSPARENT SENIOR REGULAR UUNlOJfc These fam¬ ous corners will handle every thing from a pos¬ tage stamp to a large map, draw¬ ing, or pho¬ tograph. Popular for mounting snapshots on cards or in albums. Four styles, as shown above. In black, white, gray, green, red, sepia, ivory, gold, and silver. Transparent style is of crystal-clear cellulose. NuAce PHOTO HINGES allow prints to be mounted one above the other where album space must be saved. Handy for newspaper clippings or postcards. Ready folded. Just moisten and use. All styles retail 10c package (15c in Canada). Packed in effective display containers. Ask for sample packages and trade discounts. ACE ART CO. 12 Gould St. Reading, Mass. 7 he School Prepares students for career positions as Medical Laboratory Technologists, X-ray Technicians, Phy¬ siotherapists, and Secretaries to Doctors. Co-educational—day and evening classes. Limited enrollment. Free placement. Write for catalog. THE WILSON SCHOOL 285 Huntington Ave. Boston, Mass. READING SQUARE MARKET Telephone Reading 0890 607 Main Street, Reading HOME OF QUALITY FOODS — Free Delivery — Tots Teens Toggery Shoppe MISSES WEARING APPAREL FORMAL GOWNS .98 to $8.98 187 Haven St. Tel. Rea. 0586 THE READING HI-Y CLUB “To create, maintain, and extend through¬ out the school and community high standards of Christian character .” Lovely Permanents for White Hair ZOTOS JAMAL $ 10.00 $ 6.00 No machine—no electricity OTHER PERMANENTS $3 UP IDEAL BEAUTY SHOPPE Tel. Rea. 1669-M 191 Main St. Evening Appointments for Permanents ADAMS COMPANY LADIES’ AND CHILDREN’S FURNISHINGS Haven Street Tel. Rea. 1360-W w w w SAVE FOR A PURPOSE Look into the future now. Save for a purpose. It may be to own a home of your own, extension of your education, purchasing a car, accumulating vacation funds, or it may be to carry you over your “rainy days” through illness, temporary unem¬ ployment and similar reverses. Saving for a purpose keeps you enthused—pays good dividends. MECHANICS SAVINGS BANK 643 MAIN STREET READING, MASSACHUSETTS If You Can Save 25 Cents a Week or More You can save enough to take out one or more Systematic Saving Shares in the Co-operative Bank. Our Shares require a payment of Si monthly each, and mature at a value of $200, which represents the total of your monthly payments plus accumulated divi¬ dends. It is a profitable, easy plan. —Ask For Folder— READING CO-OPERATIVE BANK 643 MAIN STREET READING, MASSACHUSETTS To the Class of 1939 whose yearbook we have been privileged to produce The Reading Chronicle extends heartiest congratulations and best wishes for the future of each member SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY Cultural and Pre-Professional College of Liberal Arts —day, evening and part-time courses leading to A.B., B.S. and B.S. in Ed. de¬ grees (120 semester hours.) Pre-professional courses (60 hours) for Law, Journalism and Busi¬ ness Administration. Entrance requirements, 15 college entrance units. Advanced standing for acceptable credits. Professional Law School —4-year day and evening course. LL.B. de¬ gree, prepares for bar examinations and Law prac¬ tice. Entrance requirement, 60 semester hours of college credits. College of Journalism —day and evening courses, B.S. in J. degree, 120 semester hours (including 60 semester hours of Liberal Arts and instruction in all phases of Journalism.) College of Business Administration —day and evening courses, B.S. in B.A. degree, 120 semester hours (including 60 semester hours of Liberal Arts) ac¬ counting, advertising, business management. Graduate School of Law —1-year evening course for LL.M. degree and higher professional standing. For LL.B. graduates only. Late-Afternoon and Saturday Courses for Teachers Special Summer School Courses Day and evening duplicate sessions All departments co-educational Combined faculties represent cultural and professional instruction of high quality and recognized achieve¬ ment. Call, write or phone CAP. 0555 for catalogs Colleges Law Schools SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY REGISTRAR Derne Street Beacon Hill Boston, Mass. J. E. PURDY CO., INC. PHOTOCRAPHERS AND LIMNERS 160 Tremont Street Boston, Mass. LATE TO A DATE? Then Patronize BELL’S BARBER SHOP High Class Haircuts in a Hurry Austin ' s Block Reading Square NEW TUXEDOS FOR HIRE READ WHITE FORMAL CLOTHES RENTED FOR ALL OCCASIONS CAPS AND GOWNS 111 Summer St. Boston Woolworth Bldg., Providence, R. I. ■ i � ‘ |t ‘ ‘ | ‘ Burdett College COURSES FOR YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN Business Administration- Accounting, Executive ' s As¬ sistant (tor men), Executive Secretarial, Stenographic Secretarial, Shorthand, Type¬ writing, Bookkeeping, and Finishing Courses. One- and Two-Year Programs. Previous commercial training not required tor entrance. Leading colleges represented in attendance. Students from different states. Place¬ ment service free to gradu¬ ates. Visitors welcome. ST YEAR BEGINS ° 1 SEPTEMBER, 1939 u5me55 As an institution. Burden College is now an acknowledged leadei in the field in which its work is done. Statesmen, financiers, hank officials, presidents, vice-presidents, treasurers, and many others holding important business positions are numbered among its alumni. Yet its pride as an institution rests not alone upon the achievements of the illustrious, but upon the accomplishments of that large number of men and women who, because of the practical nature of the training received, now hold respon¬ sible positions in various lines of business in many states. Write or telephone for Day or Evening Catalogue 156 STUART STREET, BOSTON • HANcock 6300 NEW ENGLAND BUSINESS SCHOOL 38 Newbury Street - - - Boston, Massachusetts operated by BABSON’S STATISTICAL ORGANIZATION, Incorporated Benefit by training personally organized by Mr. Roger W. Babson. In 40 years of active business he has guided thousands of young men and women. As one of our students, you associate yourself with an atmosphere of successful business leader¬ ship. To Secure and Hold Jobs you are trained in accounting, stenography, typewriting and other skills. For Future Promotion you study manage¬ men t, public speaking and other aids to personality development. Please Address Babson’s Statistical Organization Purchasing Courses are especially empha¬ sized, to help you in business and in your own buying. Trips to Plants are featured, to put you in touch with actual business. Placement In Jobs is part of our program. Our Work-Study feature is designed to help competent students. Get your training at a school organized and operated from the viewpoint of employers with widespread responsibili¬ ties and large payrolls. Inquiries To Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts READING public LIRfMBy READING, MASSACHUifffg The Pioneer Q ' todUatia+i NumheA. Reading High School Reading, Massachusetts flune 940 ■ READING PUBLIC LIBRAR READING, MASSACHUSET The Pioneer Board Editor-in-Chief Carleton Adams Write-ups Staff Ruth Shumaker J _ i Chairmen Stanley Stembridge ) Horace Jones Wallace Haselton Sherman Poland Evelyn Comey Kathryn Conron Katherine Witham Dorothy Barstow Rae Amback Doris Steele William Jaques Barbara Currie Shirley Field May Melanson Charles Sullivan Literary Editor Mary Maling News Editor David St. Hilaire Business Staff Gilbert Camp, Manager Betsy Foxcroft, Advertising Donald Hills, Circulation David McGee Donald Whitford Lucille Gonnam Athletic Editors Alice Goodwin Gregg Brewer Exchange Editor Dorothy Babcock Art Editor Eleanor Pestana Photographic Editor Richard Fellows Official Typist Jean Sargent Staff Secretary Erdine Farwell Faculty Advisers Miss Mary Devaney — Literary Miss Elizabeth MacIver — Typing Mr. Luke Halpin — Business Mr. Reginald Kibbee — Art Dedication In appreciation of her friendship, her patience and guidance, her time so freely given, and her gentle but wise counsel, we of the Class of 1940 dedicate this our year book issue of the “ Pioneer ” to Miss Ernst, our class adviser. EDITORIAL THE FUTURE Ahead of us, over a tantalizing horizon, lies the future—a future that is garbed in mystery, a hazy future which for twelve long years we have been laboring to reach. Now that it is here, now that the time has come when we must go into the world to shift for ourselves, we are not so anxious as once we were. “If I were only a sophomore again!” seems to be the universal sigh. We cannot turn back time and unfortunately we cannot turn it ahead, hut it is safe to suppose that ten years from today the universal wail will be, “If I were only one day out of high school again! ’ If we make the most of our opportunities, there should be no need for such vain wishing. Contrary to the words of a popular song, wishing will not “make it so” and you get out of life exactly what you put into it. On every side, wc hear that we are to go out into world where there is no opportunity for young people to get ahead. This is nothing but deadening propaganda. The opportunity is still there, but has the youth of today the courage and caliber necessary to seize it? During our twelve years of school, w r e have been given a good general education. Someone has always been beside us to help us to do our best. From now on it is up to us. The future of which we are going to become a part is a specialized future and those who are specialized in some particular field of endeavour are the ones who are going to get ahead. There are oppor¬ tunities for employment in every field if you have the skill needed to do the work. Ability is not acquired by wishing—it is the reward of hard work. The next years are to he the turning points in our lives. Try to whitewash it as we will, the future in many respects is dark. On all sides of us war is raging. War is a terrible thing. It must be a terrible sensation to see your father and big brother shoulder guns and march toward the front. It is then and only then perhaps that you can realize the tortures of war. But don’t let us be fooled. It will be we, the youth of America, who will fight the next war. It is up to us to see that there is not another 1918 and that no more American blood stains the soils of foreign land unless it is absolutely necessary. If the time comes when we must fight to preserve our ideals, then we will and must fight with every iota of our strength and courage to defeat the powers that seek to destroy all that is dear to us. But let’s look away from the austere side of the future! Let’s look at the sunny side. Among our little band of seniors may be a future president, author, radio star, banker, big business man or woman, aviator, movie star, manufacturer, or even a G-man. Why can’t we look forward right now to a tenth reunion? Why can’l we be of benefit to ourselves as a group? What if we should all pull together and, whenever possible, help each other? If any of us is ever in a position to help another member of our class, it is up to him to do it. Some of us may be employers. Wouldn’t it be nice if every such employer should hire only Class of 1940 Reading High School graduates? For instance, if ten years in the future, Richard Avery, president of the Chew-More Chewing Gum Company, Inc., should be passing a ditch and see yours truly hard at work with a pick, then Dick should stop, and if he finds that I ' m married and have six children (remember—this is just an example) he should make me a vice-president or something. Seriously, if w 7 e, the Class of 1940, all try to help each other we shall help ourselves. In this way, success and happiness will find the greatest number of our class. Carleton Adams Three The Pioneer 19 40 SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS Jeanette Davis President If you see a dilap¬ idated beachwagon coming at you with apparently no one in it, look out, because Jeanette, the dimin¬ utive president of the Class of 1940, is behind that wheel somewhere! She claims that her bro¬ ther inherited the brains of the family, but she must have acquired gray-matter from somewhere since she has done a beautiful job as president of our class for three years. She also serves on the Student, Council and belongs to Junior Woman’s Club. No, that isn’t all. Jeanette goes in for sports in a big way and has played especially well on the field hockey and basket¬ ball teams. She is going to Connecticut College for Women next year and hopes ultimately to marry a rich man so she can hire a maid. Tough luck, fellas! Barbara Gonnam V ice-President “B. G.” is a pal of everybody at R. H. S., including the tea¬ chers, It is seldom that we find anyone who can take or dish out more kidding than “Barb”, our vice-president. She has done a grand job, considering her other activities in the Student Council, hockey, basketball, and Junior Woman’s Club. Those who have not been in the German II Class can’t really appre¬ ciate Barbara. Often we don’t know what to make of her brief fits”, but she seems to recover in the best of condition. Her desire to become a dietition is a splendid one, providing she doesn’t meet her fate riding in Jeanette’s beach wagon before she can fulfill it. We only hope that “B. G. won’t be the victim of too much teasing in college—there’s something about the gal that provokes it! Secretary Glamorous “Elly”, alias “Julie” of the Senior Play, “June Mad”, has her inter¬ est divided between art and stenography, and appropriately so, because she is both our class secretary and the capable art editor of the “Pio¬ neer”’. Her hobby is sketching and col¬ lecting pictures of interior decorating. One day she wants to be a buyer in a large department store, or perhaps a model. She likes fried clams and chocolate sundaes at “Tedd’s”, comfortable chairs in the parlor, and boys who are not two-timers. It would seem that she’s found one of the latter in a certain blonde ath¬ lete! At Reading High she enjoyed most, we quote “dances, football games, and periods between classes.” Eleanor Pestana Not so fast there! Traffic-officer “Dick” is also secretary of Hi-Y, not to men¬ tion being class trea¬ surer. His hobby is swiftly swooping over a snow-clad slope, and he’s an adept at it. He ex¬ perienced his great¬ est thrill, he says, as he flew through the air in his first | ski jump. After high school “Dick” plans to enter Wentworth Institute to study machine construc¬ tion and tool design. Well, strip our gears and call us shiftless, if his favorite hangout isn’t “Pappy’s car . “Dick ' s” ambition is to succeed, and with Rockfeller as his ideal, he’s bound to make good. Dick”, we wish that you may always find firm snow on a sound base, and a tow for the more arduous climbs. Richard Fellows Treasurer Four 19 40 The Pioneer Carleton Adams Radicals seem to work their way into everything! Carleton has been a mem-’ her of the Student Council and of the Soccer Team, editor-in-chief of the “Pioneer”, Junior Rotarians, leading man in the Senior Play, and president of the “O. F. F.” He spends what spare time he has from his studies and extra curricular activities writing short stories. He is quite experienced in different kinds of work, from writing for the Chronicle to selling patent medicines. He is going to take a P. G. next year, but plans to be a journalist some day. We’ll look eagerly for those by-lines. Reginald Amback “Rae” is widely famed as the star of the “Foolish Five”, the R. H. S. second team in basketball. He was also a dependable football man, member of Hi-Y, and guardian of the second floor landing for the Service Squad. “Reg” (yes, he is a man of several monickers) spends his summers on one of the many islands of Lake Winni- 1 esaukee, and what occurred there on a certain moonlight night is still a con¬ troversial subject. Next year it’s ? College for “Binge”, and may he have as prosperous a time there as he has had at R .H. S. Edythe Arsenault Listen! Do we hear a giggle? Yes, here’s “Edie”, the willowy girl with the pretty locks, whose hobby in R. • H. S- was chatting in the corridors. “Eddie” pursued the Secretarial Course and is looking forward to good times this summer at the beach. Next fall, she plans to go to school and to work, tco. After seeing the jaunty little way in which she displayed clothes in our fashion show, we’d hire her as a model any day. Best of luck, “Edie”; it’s a hard struggle, but we know you’ll come through with flying colors. Muriel Arthur Women usually are quite hard to understand, as we all know, but few of us realize that quiet “Buddy”, or “Countess”, can be a problem child al¬ most at will. As is supposed to be the case with women, she can never make up her mind, is nearly always too busy to contact, and is seldom ready for a date at the desired time. The fact that “Bud is active in the Junior Woman’s Club as correspond¬ ing secretary, serves as vice-president of the one and only “Clique”, does a bit of studying, helps to run dances, takes a little time to eat and sleep, and still keeps on going is something of which to take note. Richard Avery It seems that “Mike“ really likes our little red school house, for he cites it as his favorite hang-out. While here, he has followed the Business and Civ¬ ics Preparatory Course, and has been a member of the Rifle Club. Outside activities have included a paper route, Kittredge’s car, and model airplane building. The big moment of “Dick’s” life has yet to come, he confesses. We’re sure he will get the position he wants in the Civil Service, because he’s a great fellow. Dorothy Babcock Whew! From the joyous laugh we’d guess that the whirlwind that just passed was “Babs” on the way to en¬ liven another class with her humor. She grandly enacted the part of the understanding mother in the class play June Mad” and well deserved those superlative bouquets. “Babs” belongs to Junior Woman’s Club and Rainbow; she especially enjoys the Dramatic Club, for acting is one of her foremost hobbies. Literary talents are also hers and she’s put new life into the Ex¬ change Column of the “Pioneer”. Her merry laughter is going to be with us one more year before she enters Bates. English is her favorite subject and one day she threatens to teach it. Dorothy Bailey “Dot” is a talented young artist, al¬ ways ready to lend a touch of color to any situation with one of her draw¬ ings. Next fall will probably find her among the students at the Massachu¬ setts School of Art. As for immediate pans, she hopes to find employment tnis summer as a waitress. It would seem that she’d make a better cashier than waitress; no checks would “bounce” with “Dot” in charge, since as a hobby she likes to analyze hand¬ writing. Senior Carnival, she says, is her happiest memory of R. H. S. Someday she’d like to join the rest of us for another ski at “The Elms”. Harry Barr Here’s the tall, dark, and handsome member of the “Three Musketeers”, whose favorite haunts are Torre’s and the Colonial Spa in Wakefield. (Con¬ fidentially, we know why.) Harry is a member of Hi-Y and goes in for foot¬ ball, golf, polo, skiing, hunting and blondes ! Harry has struggled through the College Course and next year will resume his studies at Kimball Union, in preparation for a future at Dart¬ mouth. His uppermost ambition is to outdo Confucius. This summer, he plans to be a good boy. Sorry we can’t check up on you, Harry, but watch out for Goodwin’s men, lamp posts, and pixies! Five The Pioneer 19 40 Dorothy Barstow Who could forget “Dot ? She’s the girl who’s just crazy about Glenn Mil¬ ler and his “moonlight serenade mu¬ sic. She’s been busy this year ar¬ ranging the programs for “June Mad , doing write-ups for the Pioneer , and going to Junior Woman’s Club. “Dot hates glasses and people who say “up Maine” instead of “down Maine.” But in spite of her being a “Maineiac”, we all think “Dot” is swell! Arthur Batchelder Whenever there’s a cross country race in Reading, you can almost al¬ ways depend on “Batch to break the tape first. He is one of the best run¬ ners R. H. S. has ever had. He as¬ pires to be either a musician or a salesman, and says that Harry James is his ideal. His business acumen was revealed in the Saturday night dances he and his partner ran with success. Next year, “Batch” will study radio and machinery. Keep running, “Batch”, on the road to a successful life. Bette Beaudry Bette is the North Reading part of the firm of Day and Beaudry. (These two are as inseparable as cornbcef and cabbage). Bette has spent her three years at R. H. S. in eager pre¬ paration for her future as a student nurse and then an air stewardess. She has found time, in addition, to be a member of Glee Club and of the bas¬ ketball and tennis teams. However, all visitors to Central Street would vow that swimming is her favorite sport. Bette thinks taking chances is fun, but just for luck she’d better keep that ’chute handy. Allie Benton We don’t need a picture of Allie to tell who she is because she’s a very familiar figure about school. Many of us have bought our Christmas cards from Allie and all of us associate her with the Glee Club. Perhaps someday, she’ll be known as a second Amelia Earheart, for she says that she wants most to learn to fly . Just at present, though, Allie is looking forward to business school. She, like the rest of us, says she’s going to miss dear old Reading High very much, and we are certainly going to miss her. William Birkmaier Shij) ahoy! “Bill is about to sail the seven seas with the U. S. Navy. He has a very wide grin for everyone and he maintains that the most event¬ ful day in his life was the day he was born. Can anyone top that? Despite his nautical tendencies, it’s known that “Bill” is an automobile racing fan. Stick to the sea, my boy; life preserv¬ ers don’t help in a racing car. In the words of the immortal Birkmaier, “Shanghai, here I come!” Elizabeth Blaikie Bashful? Quiet? Mistaken identity! “Betty” is a member of Junior Wo¬ man’s Club and treasurer of “Clique”. She was working at her future posi¬ tion several months before graduation. We hear that there is definite con¬ fusion about her social life, but the outcome usually depends on the one who telephones “Princess” first. “Bet¬ ty” thinks “it ' s a wonderful world” just at present. Grace Bowers “Grade” is a pursuant of the Col¬ lege Course and is planning eventually to enter a normal school and train for the teaching profession. But she ad¬ mits that her ambition is to enter into matrimony and “live happily ever af¬ ter”. (We don’t need to ask with whom, do we?) Her qualifications for this are of the best, because she is a connoisseur of home-cooking, has tak¬ en care of young children, and has a grand sense of humor. Incidentally, her ideal is one “Half-Brush”. She dis¬ likes boys who bite their fingernails; so watch out, “Irv”. Janetta Boyd Janetta is going to fill many rooms with sunshine as she flitters back and forth answering the calls of her many patients in future years. She has been active in Rainbow and has filled color stations in this organization. This sum¬ mer she plans to have a good rest and prepare for the long years of learning to be of service to mankind that are to follow. Janetta, we hope you attain your worthy goal. Six 19 40 The Pioneer Gregg Brewer Gregg came back after an absence of eight years to rejoin our class and liv¬ en up our history periods. Where would Mr. Dixon be if it weren’t for Gregg’s helpful and timely remarks? lie is a member of Hi-Y and the “Pio¬ neer” staff and is interested in pho¬ tography and the South Sea Islands. He adores tomatoes and can’t stand people who recite in low voices. (Speak up, girls!) Next year he’s going to bowdoin, where he’ll pursue his fav¬ orite sports, skiing and swimming. If Gregg ever gets to England, they’ll make him poet laureate; he can toss off a ditty in no time at all, at all. George Bridges Well—at last we have found a lad who claims that women don’t faze him — much He hasn’t the time, any¬ way, for the opposite sex (that’s what he claims) as he is preparing to be¬ come a doctor. George’s desire is to be just like his father; you certainly can’t go wrong with an ideal like that, His favorite pastime would be driving if there weren’t any women drivers (and he doesn’t like the girl who in¬ sists on narrating her latest escapades at places like the Ritz Roof, either). George is going to spend some time at his camp this summer, before start¬ ing to work at the Shawsheen Mills, prior to prep school and then college. Some future, “Doc”! Kathleen Browne Wherever you see “Katie”, you see Bette, her pal and confidante. Natur¬ ally, “Katie” has a soft spot in her heart for Kimball’s “Dude Ranch”, since it’s a great place for having fun, and who doesn’t like a lot of fun? She’s gone out for the swimming, bas¬ ketball and tennis teams and has pur¬ sued the Secretarial Course. Much credit is hers for the splendid work she did on the Ticket Committee for “June Mad”. Franklin Bryant One of the muskiest of The Three Musketeers” is Frankie”. (We don’t know what “muskiest” means, either, but if it fits “Frankie” it must have something to do with being happy-go- lucky). Even when he hounded those of us in Room 1 for class dues, he kept that cheerful disposition. As a member of Hi-Y and Student Council, “Frankie” had a finger on the pulse of all social affairs. His ambition is to own a car of his own. (We think self¬ protection may have something to do with it). He heartily endorses Grade Allen for President. Here’s hoping he gets as big a kick out of life when lie’s ninety as he does now. Gilbert Camp If you want any electrical appliance repaired, just get in touch with “Gilly”. lie knows electricity from A. to Z. As the electrician, he made good behind the scenes at the Senior Play. “Gilly” works hard at his Scientific Course, but finds time to be faithful to Hi-Y and on the go as business manager of the “Pioneer and president of the Young People’s Society at his church. He cannot abide the 25 and 30 m.p.h. speed laws in many towns. “Gilly” will re¬ turn for a P. G. next year, but his goal is to become a second Thomas Edison. The wizard was a busy man, but then so is “Gilly”. Barbara Cleveland “Becky” is a member of our famous A Capella choir, a Rainbow girl, and a member of the Junior Woman’s Club. She has pursued the Classical Course, although she preferred lunch periods, chemistry, and the choir. “Becky” is averse to “men in general”, except, of course, Don Ameche, who is her ideal. Her ambition is to be a singer. (We think she is one now.) She will attempt to realize her ambition by en¬ trance to a conservatory of music. We ' ll be front row center, “Becky”, when you make your debut. Betty Coan Here’s a girl who likes to enjoy her¬ self. When we say that dancing is her hobby, we’re putting it mildly. Betty belongs to the Junior Woman’s Club and Rainbow, and has recently been an officer in the latter. Carole Lom¬ bard seems to her to have achieved near perfection (could that be because of Clark Gable?). Since wind is Bet¬ ty’s pet peeve, we wonder what she did on the night of September 21, 1938. Betty has had the good fortune of doing office work during the summer, and she plans more work or prep school next year. Mr. Businessman, here comes another secretary. Evelyn Comey Evelyn is the cheerful little miss w r ho makes up a big third of “The Melody Gems”, both singing and play¬ ing the piano. She has had a speak¬ ing part in various assembles and has been a soloist in the A Capella Choir. She definitely plans to make music her life. If she doesn’t broadcast, then she’ll be Music Supervisor in a high school. “Evie” has enjoyed R. H. S., its Glee Club, and its dances—so much tl at she plans to take a P. G. in preparation for B. U. Conservatory of Music. Seven 19 40 The Pioneer Tom Connelly Tom, more intimately known as “The Rabbi”, has been president of Hi-Y and a member of Student Council and the Service Squad. We can well un¬ derstand why he was given a post on the first floor. We also understand that Tom has recently bought a new car (it is a car, isn’t it?) and was surprised to find the gas tank much larger than he had anticipated. More than once, Tom and a certain red¬ headed fellow have been seen tenderly pushing this vehicle toward an un¬ known destination. Tom wants to be a successful financier; it ought to be easy—lie dresses and looks the part right now. William Connelly Of course, this is our football cap¬ tain, “Speed”. He was always one of the hardest players on the squad and one of the best when it came to sports¬ manship. “Speed’s” injury during the football season made him one of the few of us ever to have a dance held in his honor. He has been a faithful member of the Student Activities Committee and the A Capella Choir. “Speed” is taking the Civics and Busi¬ ness Course, but hasn’t decided what he will do next year. However, this summer he will go to C. M. T. C. at Fort McKinley. “Speed’s” ambition is to make good, and we know he will. Kathryn Conron Kathryn is that quiet young lady whose uncanny way with poetry has had Miss Devaney’s first period Eng¬ lish class wondering whether she would surpass Browning or Milton. Kath¬ ryn, who also answers to the appela- tion of “Spiffy”, plans to trudge the boards of Ye Olde Highe Schooic again next year before departing for Wheaton. “Spiffy” confesses that her greatest thrill (Att. Mr. Spencer) was translating the “Aenied”; that her most boring times were at assem¬ blies on jobs. She has belonged to the “T. N. T. Club” and has played basketball for three years. Margit Courossi “Meg”, with the classic features and copper-colored hair, aspires to be a model, or to work in a department store. She’s expert at ping-pong, has been on the basketball squad, and en¬ joys tennis and bicycle riding. Her favorite spot is beside a radio, but she emits an Oh. phooey!” when there is too much advertising on a good pro¬ gram. She likes boys that are tall, dark, and not too handsome, and good dancers that are not conceited. Does that describe the one and only, “Marg”? Barbara Currie Strip Tease Currie she was called in those days! (Honest, “Barb , it was just to see you blush!) She’s a member of Junior Woman’s Club and goes for anything in the line of sports. She’s been on almost every R. H. S. team, from field hockey to bowling. Colby Junior College is waiting for “Dynamite at the end of this year, and after college, she intends to be a big-time buyer. She loves assemblies that run over time and hates boys who debate in history. Another pet aver¬ sion is remembering dates, and off¬ hand, we’d say she’d rather dance than eat. Betty Dalton Remember “Bets”, that flirtatious young lady with the long lashes and flashing smile? She’s a member of Junior Woman’s Club and is secretary of the one and only “Clique”. Lately, although her hobby is dates, her inter¬ est seems seriously concentrated. This summer Betty plans to mix work and play, and next year she’s going to Westbrook Junior College to prepare for life as a designer or as a model. Here she’s especially enjoyed dances, most of which she’s helped run ! Stanley Davis “Stan”, better known to friends as “Red”, is the leading exponent of the “Jazznocracy Club.” He claims that he’d rather be in the company of his “sax” than anyone else. (Appearances are deceiving; at least, we’re sure that his favorite hangout is Walnut Street!) “Stan” hasn’t any particular ambition as yet, but he dreams of becoming a success in the musical world. We un¬ derstand that your ideal is Jimmy Dor¬ sey, Red , and that you want to be just like him. Well, remember your old school friends when you’re passing out autographs! Lorraine Day Lorraine will never be forgotten as Milly-Lou, the brat in the Senior play. Rainy enjoys her school work, es¬ pecially chemistry, but could get along without homework. Glee Club certain¬ ly will miss her! This summer she is going to recuperate from the hard task of keeping up with life. The majority is always right, so when “they say” that Lorraine’s hair grows redder every day, it must be so. Don t worry Lor¬ raine, most great people have red hair. (Editor’s note: Now which member • 1 our write-up staff could have written this ?) Eight 19 40 The Pioneer John Dissel We’re used to seein g “Long John” wielding one of “Charley’s” brooms af¬ ter 2:30 or flinging newspapers in the general direction of doorsteps as he cavorts around town on his trusty bi¬ cycle when most of us are just getting out of bed. Yes, John, we can un¬ derstand why your chief hobby is “sleeping”; we wonder how you ever find time for the other ones: swim¬ ming, bowling and skating. “Diddle” has one wish to make that the rest of us echo; he hopes the world won’t be too hard on the Class of 1940. Bernard Doucette If you see the members of the Cross Country Team rolling on the ground with laughter, you will know “Bernie” is cracking a joke. He is one of those fellows who are always working; he has a paper route in the winter time and is a cook in the summer months. If you rave over the fried clams at Sailor Tom’s, y ou can hand the credit to our own “Bernie”. He does enjoy good times when they come his way, especially if some fair lady is around to help him do so. He is going to continue study along the engineering line next year at night school while he holds down some lucrative position or other in the daytime. Harold Doucette Harold’s prime ambition is to see the world. We’d say there are certain spots on this globe that he’ll have to skip right now. Before he embarks on his world cruise, we can probably find our friend at the Recreation Hall. Harold’s favorite subject is book-keep¬ ing. Many of us are surprised at that choice, but “Hal’s” a hardy gent. Don ' t forget to send us a post card from China and to keep away from Hitler! Christine Ellis “Christine” to people wdio don’t know her, but “Tina” to her friends! “Tina’s” been trucking on down the corridors of R. H. S. for these three years. Her only particular idea about the future is that she would like to sing with an orchestra. So far, she’s been training in Glee Club. She would like to have everyone know that jitterbugs are not crazy, and she claims that Paul Whiteman agrees with her on this point. Well, everyone to his own opinions, “Tina”. Theo Farr Theo is a girl who wants to be a lawyer. To this end, she will go to Pembroke College next year and then to law school. Law may seem a strange profession for a girl, but we wish her as much success as Portia had. Theo has been active in sports, being on the hockey and bowling teams, but her favorite sport, believe it or not, is football. My, what mas¬ culine tendencies! All kinds of best wishes, Theo! Erdine Farwell Listen — do you hear that soulful moo-o-o-o? It’s “Dean” calling to her friends in the Maine pasture. “Dean” may giggle a little in Latin IV, but she usually knows the answers—especially the meaning of “remugio”. She holds the office of corresponding secretary in the Junior Woman’s Club, is a high officer in Rainbow, and has slaved for the “Pioneer” as staff secretary. She has two ambitions : to get her driver’s license and to be an English teacher. She plans to attend Boston University next year, but will spend the summer near that certain alluring pasture. “Dean’s” pet peeve is being reminded that a chicken is not a mammal. Helen Foster During her three years in R. H. S. Helen has been one of our most en¬ thusiastic secretarial students. Next year she will further prepare herself for work in this field by attending a business school. The summer months, however, will find her enjoying a va¬ cation in New Hampshire, where her ambition is to someday own a farm of her own. Helen’s pet peeve is hearing “No School” come over the radio for what seems like every town but Read¬ ing. A farmer’s life a bustling one, Helen, for a girl who confesses that her favorite hangout is “bed”. Betsy Foxcroft Betsy is a friendly person who al¬ ways seems to be busy with something (or someone). When it comes to Ger¬ man, she is just about tops. We don’t see how you do it, “Foxy”! “Bets” has been a member of the Girls’ Bas¬ ketball Team, the “Pioneer” board (she garnered more ads for this issue than the magazine has ever had be¬ fore!), the Senior Carnival Commit¬ tee, and the hack-stage crew of our play, June Mad”. (Betsy put the hoys to shame, we hear, nailing the set in place.) We’ll wager she has had few dull moments this year—or any other year. Nine The Pioneer 19 40 Priscilla Garey Red hot rhythm swinging fast—it’s just “Pussy” on the brass! Yes, she has the high ambition of showing the world that a girl can be as good as any boy on the drums! “Pussy ' s” diet con¬ sists of dancing and more dancing. However, her pet peeve is jitterbugs! She’s an active member of Rainbow. And, most exciting of all, she has al¬ ready found employment. Why, she’ll escape finals and everything! Alice Goodwin If on some dark and dismal day you see a ray of sunshine loping down the corridor, it’s none other than our own Alice, better known as “Boogie”, sports editor for two years of the one and only “Pioneer”. In addition to her participation in sports, “Boogie” can and does compose poetry when she’s in the mood. Her fertile brain has most recently conjured up the Class Will, with “Dave’s” help, of course. “Boogie” is a staunch member of Rain¬ bow and Junior Woman’s Club, and admits that she has a partiality for red heads from out of town. For some reason or other, history fasci¬ nates her. John Greenleaf Here is another staunch member of the Service Squad and Hi-Y. “Jack” is also the boy we see around town in a Buick. He likes driving very much and says that his uppermost ambition is to own a car. In fact, he tells us that his most thrilling moment was when he got his driving license. “Jack” has taken the Civics and Business Course in school and should find him¬ self a good job if employers know a steady, capable fellow when they see one. Waldo Grover “Wally” came to our midst from Euclid, Ohio, last fall. He says there are strong arguments on both sides of this business of being the son of the superintendent of schools! Since he has been with us, “Wal” has joined Hi-Y, blown up an automobile, ably guarded the lighting effects for “June Mad”, pursued the Business Adminis¬ tration Course, and become a valued customer of a neighboring Sears Roe¬ buck in his search for new narts to that car. After either Mass. State or Iowa University, Wal is going to be a factory manager of some lucky auto¬ mobile company. Ruth Hamilton A good nurse can always make a place for herself in the world, and we are sure that Ruth will reach the heights, for she has already shown her interests and capability as a doctor’s secretary. Among her favorite sports are roller skating, tennis, and basket¬ ball, and appropriately enough her fav¬ orite subject is physiology! (We “looked it up”, too.) This summer Ruth is going to have a real vacation and “ride, ride, ride.” George Hamm Who was the manager of our foot¬ ball and soccer teams during ‘38 and ’39. ' Right! It was “Ham ‘n Eggs”. (Speaking of food, deep down in George’s heart there is a special little spot saved for—watermellons.) When not too busy with managerial duties, George could be found with the Rifle Club or in one of the classes of the Business and Civics Preparatory Course. Daily, he traversed the dis¬ tance between our school and the Jun¬ ior High in pursuit of his favorite sub¬ ject, shop. Let’s hope you get that job next year, George. Wallace Haselton Here’s “Hezzy”, formerly known as the Great One”, mostly, perhaps, be¬ cause of his scholastic abilities, but not wholly, for “Hezz” was a vitally im¬ portant member of the “Foxy Five”. He hopes one day to become a history professor and in preparation for this will go either to Tufts or Clark next year. “Hezzy ’ is extremely versatile, having held many positions, from A. A. collector to being a farmer in the Grange. He is most well known as an ‘‘ e Rg-man”. (We understand that his eggs are of the very best quality and reasonably priced.—advt.) James Hawes ‘‘Jas’, this is just to let you know how empty the school will seem with¬ out your devastating humor, so especi¬ ally prevalent in English class. We hope the rumor is true that you’ll be back for a P. G. You must remember that it was only by a few days, chronologi¬ cally speaking, that you lost the title of (lass Baby to “Xormie”. You could do worse than grow’ old grace- fu ' ly right here in R. H. S. until you’re ready for Harvard! (Then, too, you’ll probably be more apt to have the $2.20 ft r those orchestra seats at plays if you postpone those bills from the bur- ser’s office for another year). Ten 19 40 The Pioneer Marion Henderson Brown-eyed Marion is good natured and full of quiet humor. She is a de¬ voted Grange member and holds the office of Lady Assistant Steward. Af¬ ter high school, she is going to a school of nursing. One big thing in her fav¬ or is that she doesn’t believe in being bored. Rainy days and the music of Brahms are her particular delights. Thus we can understand why her pet peeve is clashy, jazz orchestras. Some¬ day she wants to take a trip all by her lonesome. Richard Henderson Here is the mathematical giant him¬ self! Many a time “Hendy” has con¬ founded all of us with his baffling geo¬ metric proofs. And in the German III class, he is depended upon not only by Miss Ernst, but by three of his less persevering classmates. He has tri¬ umphantly completed the Scientific Course in preparation for entrance to Tufts Engineering School next fall, and is now ready to work in any one of a number of fields during the summer. He has had experience as a painter, gardener, carpenter, and (hold your breath) baby tender. The “Great One”, besides opera, goes in for outdoor sports, including skiing, skating, and mountain climbing. Robert Henderson One of the foremost students in Reading High School and one well known to all of us is “The Little Great One”, alias “Bob”. “Bob” has been a wizard in all subjects, although, like his brother, he prefers math and chemistry. He has been one of the most enterprising members of both Hi- Y and the Young People’s Fellowship. “Bob’s” ambition is to become either a chemistry or physics professor at a large university, in preparation for which goal he plans to work a year and then enter an engineering college. Here’s luck to you, “Bob”, and to our children when they enter as your stu¬ dents. William H ennessy Here we have that rootin’, tootin’, wild “Bill”, whose hobby is the educa¬ tion of his teachers, with baseball run¬ ning a close second. The foremost am¬ bition in the heart of our young com¬ rade is a school of the pupils, by the pupils, and for the pupils”. He in¬ tends both to work and to go to school after graduation. We feel that in whatever occupation he engages, he will, with his winning smile, get by. Walter Hilton Run, fellas, here comes “Snapper”. Imagine how an opponent must have felt when “Walt” came charging down the floor dribbling that little ole squash or got away a fast serve on the ten¬ nis court! His pet peeve is Glee Club, but, like the rest of us, my boy, you must learn to appreciate great art—in the making. He, too, is a member of Hi-Y whose favorite hang-out is the True residence. With all our fem¬ inine faces to pick from, he insists on going out of town for inspiration, but he still hasn’t found his big moment and he personally thinks this world is, after all, “a funny old place”. Robert Hitchcock Those of you who like North Read¬ ing will find a kindred soul in one “Galahad” Hitchcock. Any of you who would like to see yourselves as others see you have only to ask “Bob’s” opin¬ ion to receive a frank and truthful appraisal. In case you would like to locate him any evening, just call North Reading 59, ring 12. Although he’s been with us only a short time, he’s made plenty of friends; in fact he says that the best thing about R. H. S. E its “grand bunch of fellows and girls.” Among other things, “Bob” hopes to attend West Point and to visit Hawaii. B. Franklin Hodges For many a long year, “Ben” has been rated with “Sherm” as the last of the “rugged individualists” (so they styled themselves), to whom the fairer sex simply did not exist. But the Sen¬ ior Play came and went and only “Sherm” remained, for “Ben” had been induced to abandon his individualistic tendencies. “B. F.”, of course, was the highly efficient stage manager of our production, and apparently one of the leading ladies made a big impression. The rest is history! “Ben” has been a member of DeMolay, Hi-Y, and the R. H. S. Band. Next year he is de¬ serting us to join the ranks of the University of Maine, where he will dash through some simple subjects. William Hoffman We’re almost all sure that “Bill” is deserving of the title of genius. Math¬ ematics seems to be a cinch for him, and we are certain that he is one of the happier moments in Mr. Halpin’s life. “YVill” is rather reserved by na¬ ture and therefore is undoubtedly a boon to all of the teachers. All in all, he is a good fellow and is well liked by everyone of us. Here’s to your success, Bill”; were cheering for you! Eleven The Pioneer 19 40 Irving Holcomb Do you want to buy a turkey? “Hoke” learned plenty about these cre¬ atures when he was trying to raffle them off in the interest of his hockey team. He is a born athlete, being co¬ captain of the Baseball Team and the mainstay of the Hockey Team. What with being president of the Student- Council, a member of the Hi-Y, and the constant driver of his father’s new car, he keeps himself quite busy. He hates to be called upon to recite, says that he’d much rather be on a desert island with a good book (?) He ex¬ pects to be at Cornell next year. Don’t worry, “Irv”, your high pressure sales¬ manship will get you anywhere. Barbara Holden “Barb claims she hasn’t a care in the world. She strongly believes that one should enjoy youth while she’s young. Barbara is pursuing the Sec¬ retarial Course and someday hopes to be a buyer for a large store. She be¬ lieves that she’s in heaven when she is dancing. “Barb” is at her best when debating—in class meetings or in U. S. History. We hope, “Barb , that you will always have that happy-go-lucky spirit. Vivian Hook Besides being one of that ever popu¬ lar trio, “The Melody Gems”, “Sandy is also an officer in Rainbow and a member of the A Capella Choir. Next fall may find her a student at the Katherine Gibb’s Secretarial School in New York—but right now she is busy making plans for a summer vacation in New York and Canada. She agrees with Alma and Evelyn that the most thrilling moment of their lives was the day “The Melody Gems” received a contract for weekly broadcasts. May¬ be if the girls get a lucrative position by September, “Sandy” won’t have to pound typewriter keys for a living. John Hrynowsky “Hiram” is the boy you must have seen in action at every football, bas¬ ketball, and baseball game, for he starred in all three sports. We shall always remember him as a crashing end on the football team, a steady guard on the “Foxy Five”, and a pit¬ cher with plenty of stuff i:i baseball. “Hy” says that he enjoyed dancing more than anything else at R. H. S., and in connection with this enthusiasm we notice that he has taken quite a liking to the sophomore class. He is going to prep school next year, and from there on to college. Good luck, Hy”! Audrey Humphrey Audrey enjoys a good opera, es¬ pecially when the star is someone im¬ portant like Lawrence Tibbett. What’s he got (besides a voice) that we boys haven’t got? Next year will find her one of our numerous P. G.’s. Work is her hobby and she has had lots of it. Employers, if you are interested, she would like to add some additional in¬ formation about herself! “I’m five feet, eight inches tall, almost eighteen, and blonde.” She can type with the best of them, too. Raymond Hutchinson “Hutch” is the best errand boy Hoods ever produced! My, won’t the manager miss him as he treads the path to Northeastern next year. He has been active in the interests of Hi- Y, the Service Squad, and the Grange. He also is an ardent supporter of big league baseball and just loves to pilot a certain brunette around the dance floors. “Ray is planning to be an of¬ ficer in the Army Air Corps. Schol¬ astically he should make the grade, if being chosen a Faculty Honors speak¬ er at graduation is any indication. William Jaques Although you don’t hear a great deal from “Bill , he is still very much with us. He is a representative to the Stu¬ dent Council, a member of Hi-Y, and as nearly as we can figure out the last faithful member of the “O. F. F.”. He has enjoyed chemistry and biology at R. H. S-, but not study periods because for him they came too few and far between. He was an outstanding mem¬ ber of the Soccer Team this past sea¬ son. He participated in most of the other sports as a spectator, but he is a good one. It is “Bill’s” ambition to get into college and to stay there. We feel that such a man will not be de¬ terred from his goal. Winniered Johnston Girls, if you want your hair done in the latest style, go seek out “Winnie”. After leaving high school she plans to go to Wilfred Academy, where she will learn the ten easy lessons on how to look to get your man! She con¬ siders being a Senior her most thrilling moment so far. Don’t we all? This summer will find her touring the Can¬ adian wilderness. Lucky girl! Twelve 19 40 The Pioneer Horace Jones Ten years from now when you hear the favorite band of the day or when you pick up a book on the foreign situation in West Bavaria, you will undoubtedly find that one Horace Q. Jones has had a finger in both pies. “Jonesie” hails from the wild and wooly North, where men are bold and women, fair; his face is quite a fami- iar one on the “North Reading Troop Transport”. “Jonesie” is an honor student and member of the Hi-Y, the band, and “George’s Club”. Undoubt¬ edly the excellent portrayal of country bumpkin in “June Mad” was one of his best and easiest accomplishments. Horace says he would like to teach mathematics if he survives Harvard, where he expects to study along clas¬ sical lines. William Jones William is one of the boys whom Mr. Dixon appreciates, for during the home-room period he can always be found at his desk studying. “Casey’s” favorite sport is baseball, but he says he certainly was thrilled when the “Foxy Five” beat Stoneham. He has plowed through the Civic and Business Course, with typing being his favorite subject. After graduation, “Casey” plans to work hard and earn himself a place in the sun. Bette Kimball Flash ! Here’s the peppy little lady whose pastime is definitely jitterbug- ging. Bette’s immediate ambition is “to acquire some oomph” this summer, and then she plans to go to art school this fall. Hers has been the unpre¬ cedented honor of having her cover de¬ sign chosen for both issues of the Pioneer” this year; her posters have adorned many a bulletin board. Bette goes in for skiing, open-houses, and “extra vacations.” You can ' most al¬ ways see her at Torre’s with the rest of the gang. Leslie Kittredge “Les” is that tall gentleman with the engaging grin that has set many a fe minine heart thumping, but so far he claims his greatest thrill is run¬ ning fast ski trails. “Kit” is president of the R. H. S. Rifle Club and a mate in Sea Scouts. Pie abhors, more than aught else, being called by his full first name. His ambition is to be in Civil Service and to grow up to be like his brother and Mr. Dixon. Richard Lawler “Red is one of the most popular fellows in our class. His prowess on the football field Thanksgiving day helped save our name at the expense of Stoneham. He’s president of the Traffic Squad, has served two years on the Baseball Team, was a very es¬ sential member of the “Foolish Five”, and never misfsed a Pli-Y meeting. “Trawler” enjoys class officers and sophomores most and abhors short skirts and skinny legs. When not vis¬ iting other nobility, our Carnival King can almost always be found in Am- back’s living room. He ' ll be back next year for a P. G. Dorothy Leach “Dotty” is undoubtedly one of the cutest girls in the Senior Class. (Did you see her as a model in the fashion show? Have you noticed those dimples?) Her ambition, she says, is “to live happily ever after.” (Is that where “Stan” comes in?) “Dot” is going “to have a heck of a good time” this summer. (Again: is that where “Stan” comes in?), and then on to business school and a job. Jeanne La Fave “Hi-Ho, Silver!” and in comes “Jean- nie”, tap-dancing and singing. Even so, her real star is hitched to a diploma from Wilfred’s Academy, where she will study hairdressing next year. “Pee-wee”, as she’s known to her closest friends, can usually be found at Winnie’s, maybe doing U. S. History, for that’s her favorite subect. This summer she plans to appear on the Major Bowes’ program. We’ll be lis¬ tening ! Albert Leman A set of drums, a tousled dark head, and a mischievous grin—these spell “Blackie”, our ace drummer, whose ac¬ tivities including hitchhiking to “all points north.” He has a sense of hu¬ mor and rhythm that puts us all in the mood. His pet peeve is people who ask, “Who’s Gene Krupa?” “Al” has all the dope on swing and what it takes to produce a real swing num¬ ber. He’s just been marking time as well as beating it out during his so¬ journ at R. H. S. Why, he roams the corridors like a lost soul, but it’s hard to keep track of a little whirlwind, isn’t it, Blackie”? He plans to make drumming his life work; we know you’ll drum up a lot of trade, “Blackie.” Thirteen The Pioneer 19 40 John Leonard When “Lenny” is not in school, he’s usually at the library. His favorite sports are baseball and swimming. His idea of Utopia is either of two things— a tour of the United States or a camp¬ ing and hunting trip. Just now, John is taking the Accounting Course and plans to go to a business school, whence he will proceed in search of a job that will enable him to buy his dream—an automobile. Richard Lewis No doubt you’ve seen “Dick” many times operating the motion picture ma¬ chine at our assemblies. “Dick’s” up¬ permost ambition is to see Mr. Spen¬ cer run in a cross country race. His pet peeve is ankle socks on girls. (Do we hear a chorus of “ayes”?) He states that his most thrilling moment, so far, was “seeing New York City and other things.” He enjoys the classics, even to the extent of choos¬ ing a topic like “Pietas et Gravitas” for his Faculty Honors speech on that momentous day, June 5. Walter Lewis “Lewey” is of the more quiet type to be seen about school. But still water runs deep, they tell us, and Walter seems to prove the adage, for he sets his own ideals, has no thrilling mom¬ ents, dislikes women, and says that the best way to get along in this tough, two-fisted world is to “keep your big mo uth shut”. His ambition is to see the world, yet earn some money at the same time. Since he is a Sea Scout we can think of no better way to ac¬ complish his aim than to “join the navy and see the world”. “Lewey’s” hobby is stamp-collecting and we hope that on his world-trip he may get some fine specimens first-hand. Hubert Lieberman A few years from now when you read your favorite comic strips or survey prominent cartoons on subjects of current importance, they will un¬ doubtedly have been drawn by “Hu¬ bert”. He has practically lived on the third floor of R. H. S. and his car¬ toons have been found in the “Pioneer”, on the bulletin boards, and in Room Two. Next year he plans to pursue his studies further at Massachusetts Art. May your brush never run dry, Hubie”! Norman Lloyd The “Dean” is one of our leading “hep-cats” and has played with sev¬ eral orchestras well known in these parts. He also has other interests, which center, at least at this writing, in Melrose, hut “Norm” readily admits he is fickle, so, women—beware ! One of his great joys in R. H. S. has been the German classes, and even Miss Ernst confesses that the periods would have been dull without the amazing, albeit trying, personality of the “Pres¬ ident of George’s Club”. “Norm” ex¬ pects to be seen strolling about the spacious Bates campus next year, after a summer playing with some band. His colorful performance in “June Mad“ as Mervyn will long be remembered. Gertrude Lorceree “Gertie , or “Lefty” to her special friends, hopes to attend Wilfred Academy next year to learn the art of hairdressing. She is one of the fortunate ones chosen for membership in the A Capella Choir and likes ail sports, especially a good football game. Being a Senior she says is to her tops in thrills (what about Freddie?), but getting up in the morning or passing in homework still stumps her. Some of us will doubtless encounter “Lefty” this summer—either “job hunting or dancing under the stars at Kimball’s.’ Mary Maguire Salve, Salutatorian ! (F ' or the benefit of non-Romans, “Salve” means “hail!”) Since Mary is a student of Latin and likes it, we greet her with that lan¬ guage. She is, she says, not pursuing but being pursued by the Classical Course. Mary is a member of the Junior Woman’s Club, likes to knit (as witness her numerous sweaters), play tennis, eat pork chops, and sleep when not studying, which is often. Ac¬ cording to her present plans, Emman¬ uel College will receive the manifold benefits of her presence next year. Margery Maguire “Midge’s” amiable disposition has al¬ ways been a great attraction for friends both in and outside of the Senior Class. She likes to cook and to sew; the latter pastime should help in getting for her the “oodles of clothes” that she wants. ' Skeets is another member of Junior Woman’s Club and, as a typical club¬ woman, would advocate a worthy social improvement: the installing of an auto¬ matic dishwasher in every home. She ' s dishked long exams and short assemb¬ les and being told to “speak louder please” everytime she’s called upon to recite. Fourteen 19 40 The Pioneer Earle Madden “Buck ' s” the tall lad with a grin and a fast ball. The “Earl of Forest Street” resides in Rood old North Reading and commutes daily to his domain off Main Street via Lane’s 7:10 Special. “Buck” has an in¬ clination toward the sea and expects to join the navy. There seems to he a sea going epidemic among those who live on the banks of the mighty Ipswich. It ' s all right, “Buck”, but its pretty hard to play baseball at sea— and what will the 7:10 do without you? Mary Maling Mary’s greatest claim to fame is her superb characterization of “Penny” in our class play, “June Mad”. Long will we remember this latest display of her admirable histronic abilities. It would seem that she would head for the theatre at once, but next year will find “Two Bit” at Mass. State. She has recently done a splendid piece of work as literary editor of our year¬ book. Mary’s hobbies are reading and tennis; her favorite subjects, math and biology. Miss Ernst is her ideal. (If only there were more dispositions, like Miss Ernst’s in the world!) We can hardly wait to see your name in lights, Mary. Alma Mansfield “Dimples” is the demure miss who has a knack for winning her way into everyone’s heart. She is a member of the “Melody Gems”, the famous trio, who have already made quite a start in the world of music. Alma’s most thrill¬ ing moment was the time when the trio was asked to broadcast weekly. Well, it’s nice to know that we can simply snap on the radio and listen to the sweet voice of “Dimples”, our musical ray of sunshine. Some fellow will cer¬ tainly be in luck, for her hobby is cook¬ ing. Katherine McDonough “Dutchie”, as she was nicknamed after her appearance in our Senior Play, is going to be a doctor’s secretary. Next year will find her either a P. G. or in business school. Dramatics and sports such as swimming, dancing, and bad¬ minton hold her greatest interest. Kay says her pet peeve is being stopped by the numerous red lights in the square. You’re not the only one ! May Melanson May has her heart set on being a gym teacher. We’re sure that if any¬ one will make a good gym instructor, May will, because she loves sports so much and is such a grand sport her¬ self. She especially likes to “swing a tennis racket, pile up the turf with a golf club, bowl a string or two or three, or go down to the deep blue sea”. Next year will find her either at Westbrook Junior College or at Sar¬ gent—just biding her time. This sum¬ mer, in advance preparation for that future, she’ll be counselor to “forty sweet cherubs” in New Hampshire. Richard Merritt Hold everything, gang! Here comes that superman of sport, “Dick” Mer¬ ritt ! “Dick” was plugging up the right side of the line for Coach Holgerson in football; then he shed his cleats and helmet to play basketball and lead the “Foxy Five” to the Middlesex League Championship and the Tech Tourney. Now, with basketball over, “Dick” turns to baseball, where he is first string catcher and his big bat drives in many a run for R. H. S. In addi¬ tion to all this athletic activity, “Dick” has been an efficient member of the Service Squad and Hi-Y and recently has been indulging in our most popu¬ lar indoor sport with a certain dark¬ haired lass from up north. Betty Miller Betty is one of our outdoor girls, being interested in every conceivable sport. Tennis is one sport where she has a marked advantage over her op¬ ponents, since she’s ambidextrous and has no back-hand worries. After an¬ other summer at her favorite hideaway in Maine, she plans entrance to Colby Junior College, where she and “Barb” will be the campus cut-ups in short order. Betty offers one piece of ad¬ vice to everyone: when you see a grey Pontiac coming, duck! She should know; she should know! Clark Nyman If you see a venerable blue and yel¬ low Ford streaking about the sedate Reading streets, undoubtedly “Joe” is at the wheel. He enjoys driving as much as anything, even if those who accompany him are not always rest¬ ing easily and enjoying the countryside. Joe” has been a member of the Serv¬ ice Squad and was on the Costume Committee of the Senior Play, even if “Frankie” did do all the work. Our most experienced tennis star, he has earned his letter for three years. Fifteen 19 40 The Pioneer Virginia O ' Brien A good-natured pal is “Ginny”, for she’s always ready to lend a hand, whether it’s typing for the “Pioneer” or any other job. She is an ardent R. H. S. basketball and football fan. Clothes, clams, climbing mountains— these are among her enthusiasms, while conceited people have no place in “Gina ' s circle. She’s good at mind¬ ing children, likes to try her hand at hair-dressing, and hopes to obtain a secretarial position. But for a real thrill—ask her about that rocking yacht in the rain. Louise Pattison Little and demure, “Patty” is sweet¬ ness personified. Her hobby is music and her ambition is to be a singer and whistler, which shouldn’t be hard be¬ cause she has received prizes for her double whistling. In fact, her greatest thrill was when she was giv¬ en a radio audition. She likes to meet singers and actors and to see them perform. Your message to the world, Patty”, is “Laugh and the world laughs with you.” Ours to you is “Whistle and the world will clap for Eileen Peters Did you ever see a little “half-pint” running busily around with a duster after school? That’s “Pete”, or “little Pete”. She likes to work and keep busy. Her favorite expression is “Good things come in small packages” —very appropriate, we think. “Joe” likes to do arithmetic, loves to eat, or to have a good time. She aspires to drive a truck; that should be easy for one with so much ambition. Sherman Poland Sherman is that red light which stops many a sophomore in the process of doing wrong in the first floor corri¬ dor. Besides his post on the Service Squad, Sherm” has been an active member of the Hi-Y, the Student Coun¬ cil, and the Cross Country Team. Well did he play the part of Mr. Har¬ ris in the Senior Play. In his spare time Sherman has waltzed through a snap course in preparation for a stay with John Harvard for the next four years. From Harvard he will climb to the Bar. Success to you, “Sherm”, and please remember us if we ever become entangled with John Law. Muriel Powers Muriel we shall long remember as the hilarious “Effie”. the maid with a laugh in every line, of “J me Mad’ Often at the end of the fifth period, “Rusty” has been seen reeling down to the lunchroom after a stiff forty- five minutes of chemistry. She doesn’t exactly dislike chemistry; it’s just that formulas bother her. Muriel enjoys Latin, and she emphatically declares that it is the Latin she enjoys. “Blondie ' s been on most of the girls’ sports teams and she vows that her most thrilling moment to date—posi¬ tively—was meeting the Arlington and Medford football teams in one and the same room! Norman Putnam “Putt” is one of our future engin¬ eers. He has been absorbing the knowledge of the Scientific Course, and naturally, majoring in math. If “Scrooge” (another of his titles) had a week to do as he pleased, he would travel and meet people. In reply to our query about his ideal, he charac¬ teristically said, “Wouldn’t you like to know?” (We would). He has been an active member of Hi-Y and DeMo- lay; in the latter he has been an offi¬ cer. John Quinlan Jay Boy”, or “Johnny”, is quite a lad. Active in Hi-Y, baseball, football, and basketball (as an important mem¬ ber of the “Foolish Five”). “Jay” has personality all his own. His glamor smile is quite commonly seen in the R. H. S. corridors as he gallops through the turmoil of students. (We say gal¬ lop, because he usually is in a hurry to get home and catch a little sleep.) After graduation John expects to at¬ tend Boston University, then to join the ranks of job-hunters, and ultimate¬ ly to become a business man. At pre¬ sent he is training quite hard. For example, you will find “Jay” either asleep in the shade down on the Wash¬ ington Street Ball Field or bound up north to get a haircut. Martha Randall “Cruller” is the attractive little miss with a bright smile for anyone who happens her way. She is an enthus¬ iastic member of Rainbow and Junior Woman’s Club. Martha maintains that her ambition is to be free—with no accounts for anything to be given to anyone. Her pet aversion is danc¬ ing with someone who can’t dance, and her hobby is collecting old bottles. (Tsk! Tsk!) “Cruller” claims that she 11 love to make someone a happy wife, but confesses that she simply can’t stand washing dishes. Sixteen 19 40 The Pioneer Patricia Remick A woman of many interests is “Pat Some of the strongest of these center about art. Glenn Miller, Rainbow, po¬ tato chips and “one evening in Sand¬ wich, New Hampshire”. Dark-eyed Patricia wants to become an interior decorator, and perhaps in the not too distant future we shall see her decorating establishment—a big success —on Boylston Street. But this sum¬ mer “Patty” is going to loaf and rest before entering Westbrook Junior Col¬ lege. Perhaps she will jaunt up to Sandwich, N. H. Who knows? Elwood Richardson In this corner we introduce “Bull” Richardson. The “Bull” denotes hard work, for “Rich” is about the hardest working fellow in school. When “Bull” isn’t working, lie’s playing, and his favorite sports are football, hockey, roller skating and chopping wood. In school “Rich” likes English. We ad¬ vise you to avoid the woods in the early morning, for “Bull” will hit any¬ thing within three feet with his shot¬ gun. Now, don ' t say we didn ' t warn you! Helen Robbins Everyone knows our good-natured, peppy little cheerleader, whose enthu- iasm has inspired and comforted even the most downcast fans. Her ambition is to “marry a good man and have a family”, but in the meantime she is going to try to get a job—and have a good time. Sports of all kinds have played a large part in “Sunshine’s” life, “jitterbugging” being not the least prominent among her activities. Any¬ one could acquire at least three new ideas for dance steps just watching (at a safe distance, of course) her and “Tina” at their “rug cutting”. Helen ' s planning on being a secretary; if at first she doesn ' t succeed, we’d suggest she make a profit along Terpsichorean lines. Chester Roberts If you want to find “Chet , look in at Ainsworth ' s Stamp Store. He will be there “swapping yarns”, selling seme of Randall’s Crullers, or buying stamps. He plans to play golf and go bowling this summer. “Chet” is a jun¬ ior assistant scoutmaster, and his ideal is “any bachelor”, and his ambition is to get through school and be a bach¬ elor. “Chet” would like, however, to spend at least one week this summer ( n a camping trip with somebody else to do the dishes. Now, we ask you; can he stay a bachelor with ideas like that? Dorothy Ruderman Friendly “Dot”, who is studying to be a secretary, should find no difficulty in getting employment because of her pleasant disposition. She has a kind word for everyone and enjoys watch¬ ing the dancing at noontime. She in¬ dulges every morning in one of her favorite sports, hiking to catch the bus. Early rising has made her appreciate sleep when vacation rolls around. Next to bike riding, she enjoys a good book and, “for heaven’s sake”, a hot dog. Jean Sargent One of the busiest people around school this year (or any year) has been “Jeanie”. She was official typist for the “Pioneer”, no mean job in it¬ self, and any other typing or mimeo- graphng work that had to be done was usually sent to Jean. On top of that she managed to walk off with Class Honors. She has worked hard as a waitress both in the summer and after school. The class honored her by se¬ lecting her as representative to the D. A. R. good citizenship convention. If Jean could spend a week doing as she liked, she would study shorthand, speed typing, and other things that steno¬ graphers do, and, on the side, she would indulge in some drawing, which, confidentially she does to perfection. Jeanette Sargent Jeanette, or “Measles”, is a young lady who likes the domestic life, whose pet peeve is “blondes”, and whose am¬ bition is to have a farm in New Hamp¬ shire. Perhaps she’ll go to Burdett next year. She lists her preferences— animal, vegetable and mineral (?)—as “fried clams and ice cream (the lack of punctuation is her idea), peaches, roses, kittens, and spinach.” Her habit of collecting pictures must have had plenty of encouragement during these, our last days at R. H. S. Grace Schofield If you see a sweet-looking maiden with a dreamy look in her eyes con¬ suming huge portions of fried clams some fine day, we are sure it will be Gracie. However, her ambition is not to find bigger and better clams, but to become a pianist. She plans to study music after high school in order to make that dream come true. Grace is an active member of Rainbow and Y. C. S. She has been studying to be a nurse, and we wonder if, like some others who have pursued this course, she dreams of catching a handsome young interne; but Grace at least claims membership in the “Heart Be¬ longs to Daddy” school. Seventeen The Pioneer 19 40 Edward Selfridge “Red” is one of our busy classmates. Hi-Y and Demolay are his clubs, and these together with a paper route keep him pretty well occupied. Our red¬ headed friend is ignoring his second million because lie’s still looking for the first, and when he finds it, he’ll visit the capitals of the world. Right now, though, rumor hath it that“ Red’s” interest resides right here on Main Street. Are we right? Of course we are. Ruth Shumaker “Ruthie” has long been one of the outstanding members of the “Pioneer” Board and much credit is due her for the many long hours she has spent striving for the success of our mag¬ azine. By additional hard work she has landed in the honor group. How¬ ever, this summer “Rufus” plans to have fun and enjoy life. She confesses a great weakness for Irish stew with dumplings and says her greatest an¬ noyance is keeping her cash account. (How many of us wish we had one to keep !) She is enthusiastic about Rain¬ bow, in which she holds office. She hopes some day to be either a foreign correspondent or a feature writer. Olive Skane “Bones” has been one of our most valuable sportswomen. She’s wise, however, not to let basketball, bowling, and hockey interfere with her ambi¬ tion to become a private secretary. Her pet aversion is conceited people and she is anything but conceited herself. She took a little vacation from school this spring and enjoyed a delightful visit to our great capitol. Some of us will see you in business school, “Bonesie”. Roberta Smith “You’d be surprised!” is “Bobbie’s” favorite expression, and you will be when you learn what she is planning to be! This tiny one is going to make her patients see red when she brings in their trays. Next year will bring her back to us for a P. G.; then off to study nursing she will go. This summer will find her taking a much needed rest on some beautiful lake. vVe know you’re one exception to the belief that red hair is a sign of terrible temper, Smitty”! May you radiate some of your color into the cheeks of your in¬ mates. Natalie Staples “Nat is one girl who always greets everybody with a bright sunny smile “Kitten” is free, white, and loves to cook; her fondest ambition is to be an airline hostess. This summer she’s goiim to Maine to rest up for her hard work next fall as a student nurse. Another such willing and helpful per¬ son you’ll have a hard time finding and with her cheerful disposition, she’s sure to succeed. Keep aiming high, “Nat”! Doris Steele “Dotte” is getting ready to desert us for New Hampshire. We think she’d beg, borrow, or steal a ride to Hanover! Her chief ambition is to be one of N. H. U.’s brilliant students and she certainly is headed in that direc¬ tion. She has been famous for her “Clique”, for car troubles, for making friends, and for planning at least every other dance we’ve had. She belongs to Junior Woman’s Club, Rainbow, and the “Pioneer” staff. Don’t forget to spend your summers in Reading, “Dot”; you’ll have to come back to see “Buddy”, we know, anyway. Stanley Stembridge “S. S.” is one of the few members of the class who pursue the Classical Course. Of late, he divides his time between Reading and Winchester. When he has happened to be in Read¬ ing, he’s managed to keep busy as the doctor in the Senior Play, as a member of the Service Squad, as chief justice of our traffic court, as a mem¬ ber of Hi-Y, and as a Junior Rotarian. Stanley is the president of the exclu¬ sive Redheaded League. He expects to go to college next year, possibly Bos¬ ton University. According to “Sherm”, Stanley is “one of the last members of a dying political race.” David St. Hilaire, Jr. Toot! Toot! Clear the street—it’s “Dave” coming like the wind in that grey Pontiac. This summer will find him exploring the wilds of Maine and maybe fishing for his favorite food — salmon a la Sebago. Next year he plans to finish a course at St. Paul’s Cathedral and then go to Burdett to learn how to take over his father’s business someday. Just at present, Dave” is president of the Y. P. I ., news editor of the “Pioneer , and past trailmaster of the American Outdoor Club of Maine. Eighteen The Pioneer 19 40 Charles Sullivan Introducing the learned “Senator” from North Reading and one of our Class Honors speakers at graduation. No. 5 on the Honors Parade, “Sully” follows the Business and Civic Course, because he plans entrance to North¬ eastern next fall. If he continues on his present successful way, he may well fullfil his consuming ambition to be ad¬ mitted to the Bar. Charles is a re¬ nowned history scholar, and as a re¬ sult of his oratorical ability has added to his already sizeable collection of laurels. Sophisticated youth gets him down; he’s probably seen too much of it on his job as a Service Squad man. Robert Sullivan “Bob” is one of those lucky fel¬ lows who intend to loaf and play ten¬ nis this summer, since tennis ranks with baseball as his favorite sport. He cites as his chief hobby reading, one which many of the rest of us would do well to develop. “Bob” has enjoyed the sports and assemblies most at R. H. S-, and he confesses that lie’s been slightly averse to homework. Recent¬ ly, lie’s learned to drive a car, an ex¬ perience he lists as his most eventful moment to date. With that large vo¬ cabulary of his, “Bob” should early talk his way to success. Phillip Surette “Phil” is taking the Stenographic Course and he is reported to be quite successful. However, “Sleepy” has other pastimes, such as ping pong and boxing. (We wonder if the boxing has anything to do with that nickname —“Sleepy?”) Jim Farley will be in¬ terested to know that “Phil” votes democratic in the problems class. Keep it up, “Phil”! Fred Swett “Freddie” is one fellow that doesn’t cause any trouble and is liked by every one whom he meets. His favorite past¬ time is hunting and he has made many trips to the wilds of Maine in search of game. While Fred’s in civilization, the Grange holds his fraternal alle¬ giance and he is an active member of that organization. “Fritz” has a mech¬ anical leaning and can be seen sail¬ ing about Martin’s Pond in a motor boat which he owns and operates. His favorite food is venison, and in this, it is plain to see his sporting tendencies. We all hope that Fred will be as lucky in hunting success as he is in hunting game. Barbara Tasney Hold everything! Here comes “Barb ”, that little bubble of enthusiasm, whose favorite pastime was dashing through the corridors or standing on guard for a certain couple sixth period. “Barb” was a member of Glee Club and somehow got through the Secre¬ tarial Course. She has a yen for mis¬ chief-making and a heart of gold. She certainly made some of our classes ex¬ citing. Her favorite comic stip is “Lil’ Abner” and her hangout for the sum¬ mer is Hampton Beach. Some of us are sure to see you there, “Barb”. George Tedeman This young man has certainly “won friends and influenced people” at R. H. S ; with his friendly disposition. (Eh, Vivian.) Everybody knows “Ted”. Why, Jie’s the reason we go to Duncan’s for a pot or pan when the hive and Ten would do just as well. We’re expecting great things of George—he’s already held employment in a greenhouse, a factory, and a hard¬ ware store. Such versatility! Rita Toussaint Rita does not like to be pushed around, and, if you’ve ever tried it, you’ve probably decided that maybe it was just as well not to do any more pushing. She is a member of the A Capella Choir and may often be heard singing cheerily, either with “Gert” or by herself. “Toots” is one of those collecting-fiends, gathering up all sorts of things wherever she goes. She wants to be a telephone operator. Have you ever heard of “Mike”? Rita has. Robert Van Laethem “Cuddles” Van Laethem was born in Belgium and since then has grown to be seventeen years old and six feet, one inch tall. His hobbies in¬ clude stamp collecting and dancing. His disposition is, we quote him, “swell, fine, perfect, super-colossal”. His most thrilling moment so far was New Years, ’39-’40. Tell us more about it, “Van”. His favorite subject is “Ann”, which should account for the origin of “Cuddles”. “Van” is one of the best book-keepers in his department; a po¬ sition should come his way soon. Nineteen The Pioneer 19 40 Joan Vasey Peanut 1 is one of the newest ad¬ ditions to our class, having joined our ranks only last fall. She has taken on what she like to call “an irregular business course.” The thrill of Joan’s life came in meeting one certain person.” Why must we have all the secrecy, Joan? Since she is interested in dramatics, it is only natural she should admire Bette Davis. The immed¬ iate future holds forth a summer in Sci- tuate and Springfield, followed by work or further schooling next fall. That sounds pretty good to us, Joan. Marilyn Vaughan Does anyone need a rug? If so, call on Skeezix”; rug making is her hob¬ by, and she plans to make rugs and tend her garden this summer. Marilyn sings with the A Capella Choir and is a member of Rainbow. She wants to become someone’s secretary in the not too distant future. Paging Conrad Nagel of the Silver Theatre Program: “You have an ardent admirer in the form of one Marilyn Vaughan.” (We know how you feel, “Skeezix”; we think he’s swell, too.) Mary Ellen Ward Any time you need an expert nurse, just call in Mary Ellen. In order to prepare for her chosen career, she plans on a P. G. plus a year at college before going into training. Quite ap¬ propriately, her ideals are those most famous members of the profession, Florence Nightingale and Edith Cavell. Mary Ellen reports that she recently enjoyed the New York World’s Fair. Accounts like hers make the rest of us more resolved than ever to get there this summer! Mary Ellen has been an enthusiactic member of Glee Club and we hear that she plays the piano very well, too. Charles Warren “Charlie is the fellow with the classy sport coat that you see cruising through the corridors. However, that coat isn’t the only classy thing about “Charlie”. He says that his favorite subject is history, but right now we’d say the name is Buddy”. Is that correct, or is the R. H. S. Walter Winched off his beam again? Again it is rumored that “Charlie” will take out his Read¬ ing citizenship papers soon. Marjory Wentworth “Margie” is one of our quieter girls, but she enjoys reading, badminton, swimming, skiing, skating and tennis. She must like typing, too, because she ' s always working for the “Pioneer” or for some teacher. This summer she is going to Maine, where we hope she will enjoy some of her favorite sports. She claims she was most bored per¬ iods 6, 7, and 8, but someday you’ll miss those quiet afternoons, “Margie”, as all of us will. Gosh, Marjory, we’ll miss you, because you’ve been a real pal! George Whelpley We immediately think of George as the dashing collegian of our Senior Play, “June Mad”. We shall not quickly forget his work in the role of Roger and the part he played in the success of the production. George is enrolled in the Comprehensive Course and, wonderful to say, takes particular delight in those two banes of most of us—French and math. He advocates government control of labor, and con¬ demns people who think they are bet¬ ter than others, especially those who don’t hesitate to show it. George hopes to find some sort of work and be a success at it, as we know he deserves to be. Elisabeth White All hail to our valedictorian! Well does “Betty” merit this highest of se¬ nior honors, for she has worked long and hard to surmount the intricacies of the Classical Course. And now after the battle, comes the reward. “Betty has sung with the A Capella and Con¬ gregational Church Choirs, sometimes as soloist. Her greatest thrill was the performance by the Metropolitan Opera Company this spring of “Die Walkuere” with Marjorie Lawrence, her ideal, singing the leading role. A P. G. course, followed by Bates, will further prepare “Betty” for the suc¬ cessful life she can’t help having. Herbert White “The Foxy Five” played a very im¬ portant part in this year’s program and we all remember “Sherbert” White for the part he played as high scorer of the Middlesex League in bringing the championship to Reading. “Herby” does not concentrate entirely on this sport; he is also co-captain of the baseball team and a fine business stu¬ dent to boot. “Sherbert” plans to take a P. G. and then become a book¬ keeper. However, it looks as though he may be side tracked from his am¬ bition for a while, since he has be¬ come interested in “Katy’s Ranch for Wandering Boys.” Such an interest will make “Sherbert” like dancing yet! T wenty 19 40 The Pioneer Earl White We present “Oil” White and his guitar. “Oil” seems to have the right slant on life. He has no peeves and lie really appreciates the education he is receiving. Everyone knows that he is a hard worker and a man of few words. He intends to do office work and try his hand at writing. To ac¬ complish his aim, Earl will probably take a P. G. We all wish him good luck and await his best seller. Florence Whittaker We welcomed Florence into our midst only this year. She promises to bring fame to the Class of 1940 by her best selling stories and articles in the not too distant future. Right after graduation she’ll be looking for a po¬ sition which will allow her a little spare time with a typewriter. As for her qualifications, well,—she’s managed a paper route, taken care of children, done some crocheting, and tried her best to master bookkeeping. Under standably enough, she tells us that to date she has never found time to be bored. Catherine With am “Kay” is that tiny girl from up North Reading way whom we have seen limping around the corridors of old R. H. S. recently. Just before Senior Carnival, “Shorty” banged up her ankle, but thank goodness it’s all mended now, and she can dance to her heart’s content once again. She has been a member of the Student Coun¬ cil and vice-president of the “T. N. T. Club”. “Kay” confesses that the most thrilling time of her high school life happened on the Fourth of July in 1938, way back when she was a soph¬ omore. (We’ll just bet it was the fire¬ works!!) She has studied to be a secretary and someday hopes to get a good job, work a few vears, and then 5 � Dorothy Young “Dot is a member of Junior Wo¬ man’s Club and holds the office of Nature in Rainbow. She hates to greet the morning sun and she can hardly wait until 2:30 comes around. She loves to eat (food is her favorite sub¬ ject), and her ambition is to “marry and live happily everafter.” “Dot” says she hates to repeat things she’s already said, but her sense of humor has saved many a quarrel. Richard Young “Dick” is well known because of his driver’s license and the big hit he has made as a dancing partner of the sophomore girls. “Rich” is mechanical¬ ly inclined; he likes to fix electric ma¬ chines, and to cook. (Maybe a know¬ ledge of mechanics would help in the culinary art.) More power to you, Rich”, in your ambition to become an electrical engineer. John Zynsky John is the studious lad who jumped from Latin II to Latin IV. (Don’t ask him how). John spends his spare time drafting house plans, but girls, he says he isn’t going to settle down yet— first comes a course at P . U. This summer he is going to join the ranks of the laborers, and when he isn’t working he’ll be eating chocolate cake. The thing John has enjoyed most dur¬ ing his stay at R. H. S. has been his courses with Mr. Fitzgerald. His am¬ bition is to be a success, and we are all sure that he will be. Norman Atkinson This turn toward the sea is getting serious. Even “Normie” is planning to go down to the sea in ships—not too far down, we hope. “Norm” spends much leisure time at that famed New England resort, “Henry’s Service Sta¬ tion.” Hunting seems to be his fav¬ orite sport; just what he hunts is not known at the time of publication. We might say that “Norm” has very defi¬ nite opinions on various subjects and his views are usually unshakable. A strong will denotes a strong mind, no? Jean Blier Jean has the worthy ambition of be¬ ing a private secretary and so she will continue her studies at business school next fall. She enjoys swimming, danc¬ ing, and office work. By the way, she says her ideal is tall, dark, and hand¬ some. (Can that be the attraction in Melrose?) Jean spends most of her time carrying notices around for Mrs. Tilton; now that graduation is ours, we won’t duck when we see her com¬ ing with one of those white “sum¬ mons” slips from the office. William Campbell Any time you want to argue, just for the sake of controversy, call for “Soupie” Campbell. You will probab¬ ly find him defending a point in his problems of democracy class, in the lunchroom, at Austin’s Lunch, or wherever he may be. “Bill” does not intend to become a lawyer, however; he wishes to continue with his study of mechanics until he can develop a new type of motor. After his success has been attained, he plans to spend a few weeks every year hunting or fish- Twenty-une The Pioneer 19 40 ini?. “Soup” could really develop into a good mechanic with the background that he already has. Give our regards to the grease monkeys, “Bill”, and put them all to shame with your new mo¬ tor. Margaret Carney “Marg” is one of our future secre¬ taries. She says that her favorite music is the bell that rings at 2:30. (Why, “Alarg”!) But not even a va¬ cation will keep her from being a suc¬ cess, for she is going to spend the summer looking for a job. Skating and souvenir collecting fill many of her spare hours. Although her favor¬ ite hangout is the library, she has yet to learn to like poetry, which, she vows, bores her more than anything else. We all hope you wfill have that position before July, “Marg”. Bette Carter Bette, commonly known as “Liz”, is unusual in that she dislikes school work. (How could she?) “Liz” breaks down and tells us that she would really enjoy school if it weren’t for exams and homework. She con¬ fesses that she would like to be Sonia Henie’s successor, and from what we hear, she’s doing pretty well. “Bet” says that nothing worries her, though she would like to inherit a fortune. She believes in not looking for trouble but in enjoying today while she can. En¬ joy on, Bette; the world is yours. Bernadine Conefy “Bernie” is that busy bee you see buzzing around the office. If it isn’t a notice, it’s the attendance slips. We are sure she is a big help to Airs. Til¬ ton, our very efficient secretary. “Ber¬ nie”, sometimes known as “Connie”, spends her spare time reading and em¬ broidering. She has taken the Busi¬ ness Course and hopes to work next year. We all know you’ve had plen¬ ty of experience so you ought to be a big success, “Bernie” and as your mes¬ sage to the world is, “I am coming!”, we all know it will be waiting for you and treat } r ou kindly. ) Helen Crane Helen never has very much to say, and so we can understand why people that talk too much are her pet peeve. During her three years at R. H. S. she has been diligently pursuing the Ses- retarial Course, and her ambition is to get a good job. We all know she’d have a position tomorrow if only some employer knew how restful she is to have around. Among her hobbies are dancing, collecting pictures, and Babe”. Best of luck, Helen. John Donovan When asked the ambition uppermost in his heart, “Jack” replied: “A secret!” Nor were we surprised; this T wenty-two lad’s provocative mystery has piqued more than one gal’s curiosity. We’ve a suspicion he prefers masculine com¬ rades : he was co-captain of football, secretary of the Braves Hockey Team, and his favorite hang-outs are Dan’s Recreation Hall and Ye Olde Reading Pool Room. “Jack’s” ordi- arily an impassive gent, but he will admit to a thrill once over a 79 at Sagamore. After school he’s going to work; somehow we felt it would do no good to inquire at what. Good luck, anyway, “Jack”! Frank Doucette Frank’s ambition is to get a really good job, and, since he has been suc¬ cessfully following the Civics and Busi¬ ness Course, it is quite likely that he will attain his goal. Although “Sub”, like many another of us, has an aver¬ sion to homework, this antipathy has been at least partially made up for by his associations with girls. “Sub” is an outdoor sportsman and goes in for swimming, huntin’, and fishing. All good wishes to you, Frank, and may you “land” that job. Irving Dunn Everyone can use a good manager to help him get along, but there are few as capable as “Irv”. As head manager of our “Foxy Five”, he did a job worthy of recognition, and he managed the football and baseball teams like a veteran. To some people “Irv” might be better known as the “Butterfly”, or the “Checker Player”, (catch on Betty?), but to most of us he is the fearless soul that drives the “Torpedo”. “Irv,” may become a print¬ er after graduation, providing he doesn’t enter the gasoline business. Don’t forget, if you need gas, head due north and buy it at Dunn’s Service Station ! Shirley Field Doctor, did you say you wanted an able nurse? Well, here’s one who’ll cheer up any patient. Shirley plans to work a while and then she’ll join the White Parade. Her outside activities include being vice-president of the Pil¬ grim Fellowship and such sports as swimming and dancing. She has most enjoyed her English classes and the speakers at assemblies. Shirley’s a good typist and quite a vocalist if re¬ ports of her singing in a certain choir are true. Evelyn Franklin “Eve” is often seen peddling about town on the well-known “wheel”, for bicycling is her hobby. When not bicycling or battling studies in high school, “Ev” liked to play tennis, swim, or just enjoy a nice romantic story. Having taken the secretarial course in school, she plans to be a secretary— how strange! She thinks it will be nice not to have to worry about home¬ work any more. Upon being question¬ ed, she said her most thrilling moment (so far) was a speed-boat ride! Xo merely exciting moments for Evelyn ! Kenneth Gaw “Kenny”, whose smile is rarely dim¬ med, is known for his carefree, happy- go-lucky disposition. Basketball is his favorite pastime, while, on the other hand, studying is “Ken’s” idea of nothing at all. He regularly under¬ takes expeditions to Wakefield and has become virtually a resident of that principality, for he is seen there con¬ siderably more than in Reading. (We wonder what the attraction is?) Best of luck to you, “Ken”, and may you maintain that carefree nature and live to a ripe old age. Alice Gorey Alice is pursuing the Practical Arts Course and likes to design and make clothes. She plans to attend some school next year, but like many of the rest of us, just can’t decide which one. Alice is another of these people who enjoy getting into arguments—she con¬ fesses a flair for debating in Problems of Democracy. This summer Alice will rest, have a good time, ami prepare for more studying. What a prospect! Here’s hoping that you enjoy your next school, Alice, as much as you say you did good old Reading High. Edson Gray “Ed” has been one of the hardest working members of our class. For three years he has caddied at Meadow Brook Golf Club; last summer he worked on his brother-in-law’s farm, and this winter he has been busy af¬ ternoons and Saturdays in a local store. And for this summer he plans more vvork! With ambition and determina¬ tion such as this, he can’t fail to ac¬ complish what he most desires—to go to Mass. State next year. At R. H. S., “Egg” has derived the most pleasure from dancing at lunch period and from his favorite subject, art. For diversion, he plays (or at least plays at) the drums and harmonica and indulges in such sports as tennis and bowling. Margaret Griffin “Peggy” is looking forward to her diploma as the biggest thrill in her life so far. She ought to be succes- ful, for her motto is “Do the best I can”. Chewing gum and bike riding are among her favorite sports. Repe¬ tition bores her, but being misjudged is the thing that most annoys her. Fhe pause that refreshes, especially between bells and during lunch period, is her delight. Her ambition is to be successful in controlling her temper. Good luck to you, “Peg”—trying is half the battle. 19 40 The Pioneer Donald Hills Donald is that noisy(?) individual who is friendly to all. He has been very active in school as a member of Hi-Y, the A Capella Choir, the Soccer Team, and the “Pioneer” staff. His pastimes are bicycling, model railroad¬ ing, and photography. He hopes to make the latter his profession. To this purpose he plans to take a course in photography this summer and in the fall perhaps to continue his study of it. Judging from your record of achievements, “Chatterbox”, and from those snapshots you took of the Senior Play in the making, we’d say you have a future. Eleanor Jayne “Sukic” is the girl whom many of us have probably seen riding horse-back over the highways and by-ways of Reading. Riding is her hobby, al¬ though we understand that the more advanced form of locomotion, motor¬ ing, is giving her horse some competi¬ tion. She likes art better than any other subject, and she plans either to go to a school of designing or to fol¬ low in her mother’s footsteps and be¬ come a nurse. We recommend the latter course, since her ambition is to marry a great surgeon. However, for the summer she has procured work in a New Jersey hotel. Among her di¬ versions are swimming, boating, and the opera. She has a great desire to have a season subscription to the opera and sit in the orchestra ! We wish that the very choicest seat may be yours, El”. Robert Jones Here’s to “Jonesie”, that good-natur¬ ed fellow who looks quiet but isn ' t. He enjoys playing golf and anything con¬ nected with drawing — including Mr. Kibbee—is fun for him. History class¬ es and “having to stay in the house” have been his chief worries. Although he’ll be working next year, this sum¬ mer llob’s going to forget school and l ave a good time. Likewise, my boy, likewise! Edward Keene You would without doubt agree that a person who eats “wheaties, the break¬ fast of champions,” has great possibil- ties for a bright future. In keeping with your expectations, “Bud” has big plans after R. H. S., since he pro¬ poses to attend The United States Diesel Engineering School and become a certified welder. “Ed” supplements this ambition with a desire to tour the U. S. and see America first”. He tells us that his biggest thrill came after the Lexington football game. Chunk” has set himself a definite tjoal; we know he’ll make the grade. Thomas Lacey One of the more dashing of our class is Tom. W hen not sweeping certain women of? their feet, Tom is kept busy by the Civic-Business Course, his gardening, and work he has to do— in other words, he is pretty busy. He is an active member of the Baptist Church and sometimes teaches classes. Does he have fun, we wonder? His hobby is farming and he wants to be a farmer some day. You’ll make a fine one, Tom. Robert Mason “Bob” was active back stage during the Senior Play and played center on the Intermural Championship Basket¬ ball Team. “Fat” says that he would like to inherit a million dollars and then retire to spend his life fishing and hunt¬ ing (do we blame him?). Any evening that you would care to see him, just call one of his secretaries and you will be directed to his office, which is to be found approximately three feet from the end of the library wall. David McGee “Fibber” is the fellow who drives around in that flashy Ford. “Fibber” hopes to be a millionaire and intends to start his career by proceeding with his scholastic attainments. He has been a member of the “Pioneer” ad¬ vertising staff for the past year. He states that his favorite foods are pick¬ les and apple pie. (Let’s hope not both at one and the same time.) “Fibber’s” antics and jokes have en¬ livened our drab existences ever since we have known him, and we feel sure that those who come in contact with him will be equally enthralled by his sunny disposition. Joseph McGrath Most any time of day you can find “Jitterbug Joe” curled up beside a radio listening to the 9:20 Club. But besides his copious enthusiasm for swing, he also takes a particular de¬ light in football games, and Joe tells us that one of the most thrilling mom¬ ents in his life was the spectacular triumph of Reading over Stoneham on Thanksgiving Day. Joe also has f his antipathies and foremost among these is a Democrat in any form. After he obtains his diploma, Joe plans to relax and bask in the warm summer sun¬ shine—with his radio, of course. xMarjorie Moses A cheerful disposition is “Muzzy’s” chief virtue. She is never in a mood not to be in the mood. She loves to eat (ask her friends) and play the piano or organ, especially classical mu¬ sic ; people like to listen to her, too. “Mose” likes to participate in nearly all kinds of sports—notably riding and swimming. She is active in Rainbow, always being in demand to play the organ there and at the church. “Muz¬ zy” does not like to study, and who can blame her when there are other more interesting things to do. She took an irregular course in high school and her ambition is to mar . . . well, she’s ambitious, anyway. Charles Nickerson Since Joe Louis is getting old and may need a successor, it looks as though “Nick” has a job cut out for him. “Charlie” played football and was on the championship Intermural Bas¬ ketball Team. It was on the latter that he got a chance to really show what he can do when the going gets a little rough (remember the final game?). “Nick” says that he may join the Navy and follow in his brother’s footsteps. Of course, no one can pre¬ dict the future, but it is safe to say that the Class of 1940 is here turn¬ ing out a really good hombre, who can and will make a good sailor. Virginia Perkins Here conies “Ginger”, the tuneful songbird of the A Capella Choir, a staunch member of the Girls’ Basket¬ ball Team and of the Student Radio Club. “Perk” aspires to be another Kirsten Flagstad or Deanna Durbin, and with that pleasing voice and cheer¬ ful disposition she can’t miss. She thinks big brothers are wonderful and pities those without them. Any time, almost, “Ginger” can be found in Med¬ ford, so opera agents take note! Willard Perkins “Perk”, active in all sports, was our star back in football. He also gave valuable slugging assistance to the baseball team and participated in the intramural basketball games. “Willie” is taking a Civic and Business Course, and after graduatioin he e-xpects to find work. He may do surveying with his father or he may pursue some other vocation ; nevertheless, he is “going to wor k if there is a job available!” Don’t worry; there will always be something for you, “Perk”. Harold Roberts The big moment in “Babe’s” life, his favorite subject, his hobby, and his ideal is Helen. “Helen who?” do you ask? Better ask “Babe”. Or Helen. “Babe” is a hard worker and he should succeed in whatever he wants to do. He says his favorite pastime is playing rummy. With whom? We’ll give you three guesses. His ambition—to get rich quick. Many want to, but few actually do. Let’s hope you’re one of the few, “Babe”. T icenty-tliree The Pioneer 19 40 Anthony Rose “Tony Rose” is our candidate for Coach’s pitching staff; he has every¬ thing except rubber tires and four- wheel brakes. At present “Rosy” is a Democrat serving as Republican floor leader in his problems class. Figure that one out. Attention, girls: “Tony’s” main interest at present is getting mar¬ ried, but no one need apply unless she has a million dollars in govern¬ ment bonds. Next to matrimony, “Tony’s” main aim is to graduate from high school. Hang on, “Tony”; it looks as if you ' ll make it. Anthony Sarcone “Tony is that handsome lad whom all the girls seemed to cheer for when R. H. S. was playing basketball. Bas¬ ketball provided him with hi s big¬ gest thrill, the “Foxy Five’s” winning the league title. “Tony” also played golf and became captain of the team in his junior year. Right now he’s left us to take a job, so it looks as if “Tony” is getting a head start on the climb to success. Ronald Sawyer Here is that fellow who has as many sobriquets as there are stars in the sky—“Rollo”, “Snipe”, “Chesty”, and “Chick”, to mention only a few. “Rol¬ lo’’ should be well known to all, for lie is the one who plays that keyed reed instrument of the oboe family (namely, the clarinet) while hiding behind the conductor. In “Chick’s” case, the clar¬ inet is mightier than the sword, for he aspires to enter the New England Conservatory of Music and thence to become a member of a symphony or- estra (the Boston Symphony is his preference). Lots of luck, “Snipe”; we’ll be applauding you from the loges. Jo Anne Stewart If you see a shock of red hair over at Tedd’s it probably belongs to “Jinx” Stewart, that gal from Watertown who has adorned our campus since last October. We know her so well that it’s hard to realize that she has been with us less than a year. Jo Anne takes the College Course and next year will probably add a little color to Portland, Maine, as a student at West¬ brook Junior College. Jo introduced that ever useful expression “Jinkers!” to the vocabulary of R. H. S. Some¬ day she is going to be head buyer for one of this country’s leading depart¬ ment stores. Good luck, Jo! Robert Storey Surely you know “Bob!” He is the energetic lad who wandered away at our Senior Carnival. He is perhaps our most active member of the Boy Scouts, having held the position of patrol leader, quarter master, scribe, T uenty-four and secretary. “Bob’s” hobby and fav¬ orite subject is chemistry, but he har¬ bors a deep and abiding dislike for “Macbeth”. His ambition is to get his high school diploma; we don ' t see why he has any trepidations. He is an en¬ thusiast for the well-known sport of badminton. “Bob” is planning to work and go to school. What more can we say than “Good luck to a good scout!” Charles Taylor He may be “Charles” to the office record, but to everyone else he’s “Chuck”. Basketball is “Chuck’s” sport. He was a stalwart member of the lo¬ cally renowned “Foolish Five”, and his presence added glitter galore to the classy quintet. As to future activities, “Chuck is undecided, but he will state that he is partial to the sea. Regard¬ less of what “Chuck” does, he has a disposition that will carry him through to ultimate success. Anthony Tine “Tony” says that his dream-week would be one in which he played the part of principal of a school. Just what the effect on the pupils would be is a matter for conjecture. Perhaps we might guess that the old school would be a sort of seventh heaven for those who don’t like to study. Like many another member of our beloved school, Anthony hangs out at the lib¬ rary, where he is reported as doing some studying—when he hasn’t any¬ thing else to do. He liked biology while in school, and perhaps that is why he says his hobby is collecting jitterbugs. Quite a hobby, we would say, because all the said bugs we have seen were quite lively. But “Tony”, or “Curlylocks as a certain sophomore would have us call him, seems to have mastered the technique. Ruth Tooley Ruth spends her time collecting pic¬ tures, and we know these past months must have added many to her collec¬ tion. She has passed the Home Econ- nomics Course and enjoyed everything but ripping out the stitches. Besides liking Practical Arts, she has spent some of her time working as a wait¬ ress at “The Coffee Cup” in Reading. Just as a sort of avocation, Ruth has enjoyed refereeing basketball at the Junior High. After resting up this summer, she plans to work—perhaps, she says, “slinging hash”. George True One half of our only pair of twins is George, a member of Hi-Y and Pre¬ ceptor in Demolay. George has labored through the Accounting Course, and Present plans show a P. G. or business college for the future. Dances and football he has found the most enjoy¬ able part of R. H. S. George wants “to make real money and have a snap¬ py car.” Not a bad idea, “False”! He finds girls ' knee socks particularly dis¬ tasteful. Considering their popularity this winter, he must have gone through a lot of silent torture while on traffic duty, with all our co-eds prancing by. Will you give us a ride in that car someday, George? Richard True “Dick , our smiling twin, is a member of Hi-Y and De Molay. He has studied business administration. After spend¬ ing the summer in New Hampshire, he plans to take a P. G. and then go on to business school. “Dick” seems to enjoy dancing immensely, and al¬ though he hasn’t indulged until lately, lie’s right up there, “Charlie-Walk and all. e d expect “Dick and his brother “False to be alike even to their ambitions: to get a good car! You’ve been a bright spot, “Dick”; don’t ever lose that smile. Agnes White Frequently to be seen in the vicinity of the library is “Aggie”; in fact that famed spot is her preferred hang-out, where she holds rendez-vous and does home-work. She shuddered to even think of oral reports in high school, but she liked assemblies. “Agony’s” ambi¬ tions are to get a secretarial position and to travel — maybe around the world. She likes to run errands and to eat, but homework annoys her, Never mind, “Ag”, we don’t ' like it either, but they say it’s good for you. Marjorie Wright A bashful grin, a dainty blush, and blue eyes. Yes, it’s “Margie”, that quiet but mischievous girl whose hobby is doing the “Charlie-Walk”. She loves to swim and to play tennis. She’s studying to be a secretary, and plans both to work and study further. We wonder what is the secret of “Mar¬ gie’s” peaches-and-cream complexion? We all know that she will brighten things up in a dull office as she has in school. Leonard Wright “Lenny” is not only one of the most flashy members of the widely cele¬ brated “Foxy Five”, but he ranks with the finest basketeers in the league. Studying has never particularly in¬ trigued “Ben”, but bookkeeping has been his favorite subject (next to bas¬ ketball) in R. H. S. This summer he plans to work, now that he has finished high school before it finished him. If lie could spend one week doing exactly as he chose, “Lenny” says he’d spend R in North Reading! “Ben’s” ambi¬ tion is to get married, and late bulle¬ tins indicate that he is well on his way to reaching that goal. 19 40 The Pioneer NAMES IN THE NEWS CLASS ELECTIONS Girl Title Boy Jeanette Davis Most Popular Richard Lawler Eleanor Pestana Best Looking Tom Connelly Martha Randall Best Dressed Harry Barr Barbara Currie Cutest Leonard Wright Jeanette Davis Best Athlete Richard Merritt Christine Ellis Best Dancer Tom Connelly Betsy Foxcroft Most Personality Tom Connelly jean Sargent Most Ambitious Charles Sullivan Jeanette Davis Most Versatile Wallace Haselton Muriel Powers Wittiest Horace Jones Elisabeth White Teacher’s Delight Charles Sullivan Lorraine Day Teacher’s Bane Horace Jones Elisabeth White Most Likely to Succeed Charles Sullivan Dorothy Leach Most Likely to Wed First Stanley Davis Barbara Gonnam Best Natured Franklin Bryant Elisabeth White Most Serious Robert Henderson Evelyn Comey Class Giggler James Hawes Betsy Foxcroft Most Flirtatious Clark Nyman Eleanor Pestana Most Sophisticated Harry Barr Christine Ellis Gum Chewer Robert Hitchcock Eleanor Pestana Class Cpuple, No. 1 Richard Merritt Girl Title Boy Dorothy Leach Class Couple, No. 2 Stanley Davis Elisabeth White Most Scholarly Charles Sullivan Eleanor Pestana Heartbreaker Tom Connelly Barbara Currie Most Vivacious Horace Jones Muriel Arthur Neatest Harry Barr Catherine Witham Most Cheerful Richard Lawler Dorothy Babcock Most Dignified Stanley Stembridge Jean Sargent Most Courteous Stanley Stembridge Jeanette Davis Best Sport Herbert White Mary Maling Class Actress (Actor) Norman Lloyd Jeanette Davis Ideal R. H. S. Student Richard Fellows Bette Kimball Class Artist Hubert Lieverman Betty Miller Class Baby (Age) Norman Lloyd Muriel Powers Class Clown Horace Jones jean Sargent Class Worker Richard Fellows Jeanette Davis Best Leader Charles Sullivan Evelyn Comey Most Musically Inclined Stanley Davis Grace Bowers Chatterbox Horace Jones Bette Kimball Scatterbrain Horace Jones Helene Ernst Favorite Teacher Imrie Dixon Edith Kimball Junior Girl (Boy) Rae Amback Mary Maling Robert Tucker HUMOR A certain tiny and attractive young Senior was driv¬ ing her beach wagon when something went wrong with the engine. The traffic light went from green to red and hack to green, and still she could not get started. The traffic cop, Mr. Lawler, finally strolled over. “What’s the matter, Miss?” he inquired. “Haven ' t we got colors you like? Mr. Quinlan: “John, have you had your multipli¬ cation tables yet?” John: “No, we’re still using plain desks.” Irving (reporting on baseball for the “Pioneer”) “What shall I say about the two peroxide blondes who made such a fuss at the game?” Editor Adams: “Why, just say the bleachers went wild.” It was Barbara ' s first visit to the country and feed¬ ing the chickens fascinated her. One morning she caught a glimpse of a neighbor’s peacock sunning him¬ self on the lawn. Rushing indoors, B. G. sought her uncle. “Oh, Franny, she cried, “one of the chickens is in bloom.” Betsy Foxcroft Twenty-five The Pioneer 19 40 ASSEMBLIES Remember: that at the first assembly of the new year, we were ad¬ dressed by an Egyptian lady who has made a lecture tour of the United States? She contrasted for us the modern Egypt and the backward Egypt, the government and the life of the people. She also told about the pres¬ ent relations between Great Britain and Egypt and of the general feeling of her people toward Great Britain. After her talk, an opportunity was given for a discussion period. that on January 31 the Seniors, as guests of the prob¬ lems of democracy classes, had a look at the town gov¬ ernment through the eyes of several town officials? Mr. Leon Bent, town accountant, spoke about “The Use of Money”. Mr. Sias, of the Electric Light Department, gave a concise report on the “Operations and Organi¬ zation of the Municipal Light Company.” Finally, Mr. Welch, of the Board of Public Works, reviewed the functions of the different departments under the juris¬ diction of his board. A question period followed. that the girls, on February 1, were shown the film “The Private Secretary by a representative from the Fisher School? After the machine was finally running satis¬ factorily, they saw the perfect secretary contrasted with the undesirable one and then formed their own opinions as to which one they would try to emulate. that to celebrate Lincoln’s birthday the school watched the film “Abraham Lincoln”? It was enjoyed by both young and old. Due to unforeseen events, the machine stopped and the picture as well. Most everyone was disappointed at missing the assassination, but the film ended appropriately with Lincoln saying, as he stood in his box, “God bless you all”. that a very delig htful musical program on March 8 was under the direction of Mr. Peck? The orchestra, con¬ ducted by Mr. Sakas, was well received and much en¬ joyed. The A Capella Choir sang a group of three se¬ lections, consisting of “God Is A Spirit”, “Requiem”, and “Roll, Chariot, Roll”. The chorus, under Miss Giles ' direction, sang “Night In June”. Evelyn Comey and ivian Hook sang very effectively for us and then the well known trio contributed “Let’s All Sing To¬ gether . Mary Bronk rendered a piano solo with “Cho¬ pin s Waltz In A flat Major , Mary Delano delighted everyone with “Boy Crazy”, a reading. Mr. Althoff presented the medals for the Tech Tourney, and to finish the program there was a “Saxaphone Medley” by Stan¬ “N X$NS ' ' ley Davis, accompanied by Irving Brogan at the piano. that on March 15, Mr. F. B. Smith of the U. S. Secret Service was our guest and brought a moving picture entitled Know Your Money ? Afterwards he very generously offered to answer questions. The most per¬ fect counterfeit bill ever made was passed among us for inspection. When we left the hall, each one of us looked at his money—just to be sure. that on March 22 there were two assemblies? At the early assembly, Dr. Harold Major spoke to us on “The American Way”. He was a very entertaining as well as instructive speaker. At the eleven o’clock assembly the students remained in their rooms to hear Easter music. To those fortunate enough to rate a seat in the hall, Gilbert Camp read a passage from the Bible. This was followed by a very inspiring and worth while essay on “The Lenten Period by Evelyn Comey. After hearing it, we thought more deeply about the real meaning of Easter. The chorus then sang a selection written by Miss Giles, and they also sang “Jerusalem”. The A Capella Choir sang a group of three numbers: “0, Bone Jesu’, ’ Ave Verum”, and “Hospodi Pomilui”, after which school was dismissed for the vacation. that on April 5 the new seating plan was put into opera¬ tion, greatly improving the old method? Miss Nichols, Mr. Holgerson, Mr. Althoff, and Mr. Spencer awarded the medals for their respective sports. My. Leslie Flint urged us to keep our eyes on “The Signals Ahead” if we wish to arrive in the round house of success. Wal¬ lace Haselton presented the school with a placque, rep¬ resenting this year’s Middlesex League Basketball Cham¬ pionship, which was accepted by Irving Holcomb, presi¬ dent of the Student Affairs Committee, on behalf of the school. that on April 12 there was an assembly for Juniors and Sophomores? i he A Capella Choir sang two numbers and the chorus gave one selection. Virginia Perkins sang, much to our enjoyment, and Joseph Anderson played a violin solo. Mr. Peck spoke a few words about the need for new band members and the assembly closed as the orchestra played. that on May 3, there was another enjoyable musical assembly under the guidance of Mr. Peck? “The Melody Gems rendered several selections, among them being “Loanin ' on the Old Top Rail”, “The Singing Hills”, and their own version of the “Little Red Fox”. John Hilchey gave a drum selection. The choir sang “Lil- T wenty-six 19 40 The Pioneer oam ' s Shady Kill , “Nightingale Song , and “Funiculi, Funicula”, the solo part in both songs being taken by Evelyn Comey. that on April 26 the Malden Civic W. P. A. Orchestra entertained the Sophomores and Juniors with a delight¬ ful program? They played several selections, among them being “Blue Danube , “On The Level”, “Gossip”, and a medley of Stephen Foster’s songs. This enjoyable program closed with the singing of the “Star Spangled Banner by the entire assembly. that on May 9, at an assembly, Mr. Sussmann discussed the medal won by the “Pioneer in the Columbia Scho¬ lastic Press Association’s nation-wide contest? He urged the Juniors and Sophomores to try out for the staff and to support the “Pioneer financially next year, thus mak¬ ing our magazine bigger and better than ever. (Don’t forget! j Announcement was also made of the fact that Clarence Fraughton was awarded first prize, Roland Carpenter second prize, and Arthur Knapp honorable mention in a poster contest sponsored by the Massachu¬ setts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Quite a clean sweep for the R. H. S. art department! Erdine Farweil SOPHOMORE DOINGS Two hundred and twenty-eight members strong, our Sophomore Class entered Reading High last September. As soon as we had grown accustomed to our new sur¬ roundings, we formally organized and elected the fol¬ lowing staff of officers: Harold Holmes, president; Nancy White, vice-president; Nancy Holcomb, secretary; Russell Coombs, treasurer. This has been a happy and profitable year for our class, and though we haven’t done much as a group, individuals among us have distinguished themselves and the Class of 1942 in various school activities. Just at present, our big moment looms on the social horizon— the annual Sophomore Hop, scheduled for May 24. The committees have planned to create an Hawaiian setting, complete even to a hula dance in authentic costume as part of the “floorshow”! Committees, as announced re¬ cently, are as follows: decorations, Stanley Hrynowskv, Barbara Teel, Beatrice Ruderman, Kay Maling, Gloria Shane, Joyce Pollitz, and Martha Spaulding; music, John Mentes, Winnie Poland, Clifford Toussaint, Jean Dodge, Walter Schofield, and Elinor Abbott; refresh¬ ments, John Hegarty, Marion Langiell, Gertrude Thieme, Alyee Robinson, and Leonard Rose. Miss Simon has added much of her usual enthusias¬ tic help to the planning of our dance and we are all grateful to her for the aid that she has given as our class adviser. To the various other teachers of the Sophomores, we wish to extend our thanks for a most pleasant and profitable year. Nancy Holcomb JUNIOR COMMENTARY When we are Seniors we can look back on this as a memorable year, which has held much fun and acti¬ vity for everybody . Largely because of a full program, our class has not held any elections this year. We, therefore, find ourselves with the same staff that guided our Sophomore destinies: Stella Pollitz, president; Rob¬ ert Eisenhaure, vice-president; Lillian Davies, secretary; Robert Taylor, treasurer. They have ably led an am¬ bitious class. Our most exciting meeting came just prior to the Junior Prom. Naturally, there was abundant contro¬ versy over the planning oi our annual dance, but at last committees were chosen and definite arrangements under way. The Prom was held in December with a snow scene for its setting. Under the chairmanship of Stella Pollitz, it was a glorious success. Other commit¬ tee chairmen included: Lois Ives and Robert Tucker, decorations; Dorothy Stratton, music; Ruth Perley, re¬ freshments; Virginia Davis, publicity; and Lillian Davies, tickets. Because the Class of 1941 has always been successful in the social field, we are sure that the Junior-Senior Reception will satisfy and delight our guests. Plans for it are now going ahead at a rapid pace. The entire class wishes to thank Mr. Halpin, our adviser, for his counsel, and all the teachers for their help in making this a pleasant year. Lillian Davies HI-Y Starting the new year, Hi-Y attended a meeting with the Wakefield Hi-Y Club in Wakefield and listened to a very interesting talk by Dr. Helen McGillicuddy. The following week in January we held an “Information Please” program at which our master intellects were certainly both displayed and dismayed. On the evening of March 28, Lieut. Colonel Boutwell, Commander of the Boston Air Corps, spoke to us on the “World War- Past and Present”. His talk was greatly enjoyed and was voted one of the best of the entire year. Other in¬ teresting speakers during April and May were as fol¬ lows: Mr. Brewer, who spoke on Hi-Y; Mr. Holcomb, who gave an informative discourse on architecture; and a potential South American speaker, who is apparently still in South America. As was the case during the months from September to December, intervals between meetings were devoted to swimming at the University Club and record jazz sessions. The crowning affair of our season was the Spring Formal, held at Mt. Hood Country Club on May 3rd, with Allan Mark’s orchestra supplying the music. This gala event was surprisingly successful. Hi-Y boys from four towns shook the moth balls out of their tuxes and attended. Confidentially, we made a profit just by the fuzz of our chinny-chin-chins! The year closed offici¬ ally on May 14, with the election of new officers. The T iventy-seven The Pioneer 19 40 HI-Y CLUB - 1 gVC n- IB -a. t V % Front row: Donald Hills, Henry Taques, Alfred Gianascol, Benjamin Hodges, Russell Coombs, Kenneth Anderson, David Little¬ field, Edward Selfridge, Ronald Sawyer. Second row: Joseph Anderson, Horace Jones, John Hrynowsky. Irving Holcomb, Tom Connelly, Mr. Spencer, Raymond Hutch¬ inson, Sherman Poland, Richard Fellows, Glenn Davis, Paul Connelly. Third row: Donald Taylor, William Morrisey, George True, Richard True, Norman Putnam, Newton Dickie, Woodbury Titcomb, Robert Henderson, Rae Amback, Robert Tucker, Waldo Grover, Norman Lloyd, Kenneth Coombs, Richard Lewis. Fourth row: Charles Sullivan, Vernon Williams, John Crooker, Robert Taylor, Harry Barr, Franklin Bryant, Gilbert Camp, Howard Bates, Gregg Brewer, Walter Hilton William Jaques, Stanley Stembridge, Richard Lawlor, Bruce Putnam. retiring officers were Tom Connelly, president; Sherman Poland, vice-president; Richard Fellows, secretary; Ray Hutchinson, treasurer. We wish good luck and the best of everything to the new officers, who are as follows: Glenn Davis, president; Donald Taylor, vice-president; Paul Connelly, secretary; Woodbury Titcomb, treasurer. Hi-Y would like to thank our adviser, Mr. Spencer, Mr. Sussmann, and the school for their helpful co-opera¬ tion with our club and our subsidiary, the Service Squad, which boasts a full compliment of Hi-Y men. Tom Connellv SENIOR PLAY On Friday evening, March 29, the Senior Class pre¬ sented “June Mad . “June Mad” deals with the prob¬ lems of Penny Wood, a fifteen-year-old who renounces the male element forever—until Uncle Mervyn comes home from college with Roger Van Vleck (whose father belongs to two different country clubs) in tow. Roger, in search of amusement, sets poor little Penny’s senses agog, even to the extent of producing “Lush Love, a poem written especially for you, Roger.” Then Miss Julie Harris enters and with her come the complications. Mervyn considers her his, but Roger and his accordian take her into custody. Penny, desperate and heartbro¬ ken, appears at the dinner dance in a red strapless even¬ ing gown from the “Bon Ton”. Events take an unex¬ pected and pathetic turn. Penny has just about deter¬ mined that her destiny wdll be a convent when Chuck Harris, her next door neighbor and childhood compan¬ ion, personally experiments with his own invention, a glider, and brings the household back to its senses in short order. Roger is forgotten; Penny “discovers” Chuck, Dr. Wood returns to his speech in peace; Mrs. Wood is contented; Mr. Harris is proud; Julie and Mervyn are reunited; Millie Lou, Mervyn’s “Boswell”, is reconciled, and Elmer and Effie are—well, just Elmer and Effie. We think the play was a super success, if whistles, applause, and a packed house count for anything. But the fun we had at rehearsals was worth twice any trouble we might have had putting on the show. Afternoon lunches, Saturday rehearsals, side-splitting night sessions menaced by third floor “ghosts”, and those fascinating fencing lessons will probably remain longer in our memories than the actual presentation. At rehearsal, also, we could really appreciate the indefatigable efforts of our backstage crew, the tireless energy of Betsy Fox- croft, Barbara Gonnam, B. Franklin Hodges, Jr., Nor¬ man Putnam, Gilbert Camp, Waldo Grover, Jeanette Davis, Barbara Holden, David St. Hilaire, Rae Amback. Richard Fellows, Richard Lawler, Richard Lewis, and Richard Merritt. We of the cast—Dorothy Babcock, Stanley Stembridge, Mary Maling, Sherman Poland, Katherine McDonough, Lorraine Day, Eleanor Pestana, Carleton Adams, Harry Barr, Horace Jones, Muriel Pow¬ ers, Norman Lloyd, and George Whelpley—are deeply T wenty-eight The Pioneer “THE MELODY GEMS” DRUM MAJORS Lorraine Laughlin, Elinor Abbott, liette Ellis Vivian Hook, Evelyn Comey, Alma Mansfield PLAY SENIOR The Pioneer 19 40 SENIOR PLAY CAST Front row: Katherine McDonough, Dorothy Babcock, Mary Maling, Mrs. Weins, Eleanor Pestana, Lorraine Day Muriel Powers Back row: Carleton Adams, Norman Lloyd, Harry Barr, Stanley Stembridge, George Whelpley, Horace Jones, Sherman Poland. grateful to them all. Needless to say, at the perform- ance itself, our tuxedoed ushers and begowned ticket sellers added the proper note of grandeur and finesse. Now, we come to the third, the last, but the most important paragraph of retrospection. Our whole-heart¬ ed tribute goes to our coach, Mrs. Jean Wiens, and to our class adviser, Miss Helene Ernst. Infinite patience was theirs. All of us felt a profound admiration before the end of the first rehearsal for our coach’s consummate knowledge of the theatre and the ins and outs of acting. M uch credit for a smooth performance is hers. Once more we are indebted to Miss Ernst for the untiring good humor and dispatch with which she handled the many committees involved. Penny (alias Mary Maling) MUSIC NOTES During the second half year Reading High has been very aware and proud of her three musical organiza¬ tions—Chorus, A Capella Choir, and the R. H. S. Or¬ chestra. Such songs as “Juanita” and “Home Sweet Home” (the latter must have brought sudden tears to the eyes of members of Miss Ernst’s homeroom listening next door) rang clear in our soundproof assembly hall during the practice sessions of the chorus. This organi¬ zation has made real progress under the capable direc¬ tion of Miss Evelyn Giles. Under her guidance, a new interest, particularly among the boys, has arisen in choral music. Miss Popoff has taken care of the piano accompaniment. Mr. Peck, our music supervisor, is most proud— and rightly so—this year, of his new organization, the A Capella Choir, which contains the best voices among the student body at the R. H. S. Having been so suc¬ cessful in this, its first year of singing, the choir has limitless possibilities ahead for the future. Some of its favorite songs to date are “Roll, Chariot, Roll” and “Olaf Gryvagson”, which were sung at the Civic Orches¬ tra Concert, “Requiem”, “I Dream of Jeanie”, and its latest song, “The Musical Trust”, about old Zip Coon who “couldn’t get a penny for his yellow flute.” The outstanding success of the A Capella Choir is due to the patient, untiring efforts of Mr. Peck and his ability to coax every bit of music out of us. The accompanist for the choir was Mary Bronk, who always does such a fine piece of work. All of which brings us to another tribute—our so¬ loists. Mary, of course, has played many solos in as¬ semblies for us. Next comes Mr. Stanley Davis, “a young college student of about twenty-one years” ac¬ cording to his latest notice in a neighboring press. No one will ever forget the fine performance he gave when he wowed’ us with a medley of songs on his saxa- phone. Virginia Perkins has sung for us again as de¬ lightfully as ever. Last among the soloists, but not lea t because there are three of them, are “The Melody Gems”. Alma, Evelyn, and ivian. Ihese three have sung ac assemblies as well as at many other places and are the center of attraction noon times in the library, where they do their bit of rehearsing for the weekly radio broadcast that is now their chief enthusiasm. Continued on page 57 Thirty 19 40 The Pioneer A CAPELLA CHOIR Front row: Kenneth Gray, Walter Schofield, Elmer Lincoln, Alfred Doughty, Roland Dewhurst, Richard Holmes, Robert Meuse, Francis Aglio. Second row: Ruth Hamilton, Elisabeth White, Virginia Perkins, Alma Mansfield, Evelyn Comey, Vivian Hook, Marilyn Vaughan, Rita Toussaint, Gertrude Lorgeree, Mary Bronk, Evelyn MacLeod. Third row: Elsie Lindquist, Alice Farrell, Nancy Holcomb, Doris Margeson, Dorothy Walsh, Barbara Bryant, Lillian Davies, Dorothy Doherty. Evelyn Shaw, Eleanor Shaw, Frances Wheeler, Priscilla Proctor, Phyllis Lacey. Fourth row: Bette Ellis, Barbara .Tones, Barbara Cleveland, Ger rude Dahlquist, John Mentus, Joseph Anderson, Gordon Mills, Clifford Toussaint, Donald Hills, Barbara Bird, Jean Danforth, Frances McLaughlin, Esther Frotten. BAND Front row: Elinor Abbott, Helen LeFave, Nancy Foss, Phyllis Garey, Leslie Scott, Beverly Pitman, Franklin Hodges, Norman Lloyd. Stanley Davis, Richard Robbins. Second row: James Marchetti. Alfred Gianascol, Joseph McGrath, Paul Connelly, Lennox Schoppelry, Lewis Bosson, Clarence Fraughton, Richard Griffin. Laura Hamm, William Morrissey. Third row: Albert Leman, Robert Barrett, Horace Jones, Alfred Doughty. Thirty-one The Pioneer 19 40 Selections from the Graduation Speeches THE BATTLECRY OF YOUTH: PEACE! The youth of America, of whom we in this class are a part, were the babies of America in 1917. We were born into a world distraught with war and the aftermaths of war; we have never known times of peace and pros¬ perity. It is because of this that today we are striving for peace, trying to attain prosperity. What young people want today is a chance to become intelligent and civilized beings, to lead normal and constructive lives. We want the continued opportunity to attain some degree of culture, to acquire an appreciation of the finer things that the world has to offer—and today the world has much to hold forth to its youth. It confers a heritage of thousands of years of living and learning—the achieve¬ ments of the world from the earliest Babylonian and Egyptian civilizations, the culture and science of Greece and Rome, the art and literature of European nations, and those ideals and traditions of government here in the New World. All these things the world has to bestow upon us, the youth of today; but we do not feel that there is nothing left for us to accomplish. T here are new frontiers opening up, and the youth of this nation are the pioneers who will meet them. These are the only frontiers that we want to assail. The conquering of new frontiers is the contribution which young people today wish to make to the world; we do not feel that to sacri¬ fice ourselves on the battlefield would be a permanent and enduring contribution; we do not feel that that is the way to work for the betterment of the world. War is not glorious or noble to the youth of today; it is the futile expression of avarice and greed. Nothing has been accomplished by war; the eight thousand peace pacts resulting from the eight thousand wars in the history of the world have settled no issue permanently. Citizens of Reading, we thank you for the oppor¬ tunity this town has afforded us to grow spiritually, mentally, and morally in the public schools you have provided. Fathers and mothers, we salute you. We shall not disappoint you, but rather follow our motto, “Seize the opportunity, and keep America the America of our forefathers. Mary Maguire, Salutatory EDUCATION—AN OPEN DOOR TO YOUTH Today the broadening and deepening of their own lives through education is one of the greatest challenges presented to American youth. Since education is essen¬ tial for the preservation of democracy, for social pro¬ gress, and for the solving of the increasingly complex problems confronting us, it is youth’s responsibility to maintain and improve our educational system to make it better serve the needs of democracy. Our youth must begin by fitting themselves for this great task through some form of further training, which is accessible to anyone who possesses the necessary ambition, stamina, and ingenuity. If our country is to have citizens who are valuable to her, she must have educated ones, for democracy and education are inseparable. The primary aim of education is to fit men to live more happy and useful lives. The truth is not that we cannot afford schools, but that we cannot afford not to have them. A glimpse at the evolution of education might help to persuade critics of our school system that, although there is still much to be done, a great deal has been accomplished and there is hope for the future. The vast improvements brought about in recent years and the trend toward even greater ones is certainly encouraging. Beginning with the very dawn of civilization, education, interrupted for a time by the Dark Ages, continued through the days when only the privileged few were learned until our own times, when it is at last approach¬ ing the ideal of an adequate free education for all. After so many years the great changes in our school system have made it increasingly useful as the “bulwark of civilization and the defense of democracy.” Educa¬ tion should retain those things proven to be socially de¬ sirable, but leave the way free for creative and progres¬ sive work. Schools now are teaching students the useful and necessary things they want to know in many fascin¬ ating new ways. Innumerable high school students think that they cannot go on to college because of the expense involved. Today all one truly needs is a burn¬ ing desire and the initiative to fulfill it. It is a struggle but adversity develops character, and those who really strive for an education gain by their experience. Young people, future citizens, yours is the educa¬ tional opportunity to be had for the seeking. You must Thirty-two 19 4 0 The Pioneer take the initiative. The door stands open. Can you afford, forgetting your responsibility to your country, to let this opportunity to prepare yourselves to better serve America and democracy slip by? Elisabeth White, Valedictory Pietas el Gravitas The Romans had two words whose meanings should he applied to the creed of every American: pietas a sort of super-patriotism, and gravitas, eternal moderation. Pietas and gravitas proved to be splendid safeguards for the Roman Republic. While such virtues of all true Romans were applied to government, the empire flourish¬ ed, but when they were neglected, grand old Rome feli into decay. The decay and greed which followed the golden age caused the internal destruction of the empire. The steady leadership of older and wiser Romans was disregarded for the policies of more devious politicians. Vices slowly over-ran the whole nation. After many wars of conquest, slaves and grain poured into Rome as tribute from subjugated nations. This surplus of men and food caused unemployment among the Roman citizens in general. As a result, most male citizens came to the city of Rome to look for succor, but only the selling of their votes offered any reward. This caused the masses to ascend to power and with them citizenship was extended to everyone without re¬ gard to qualifications. Liberty became license, and tried and proven traditions such as pietas and gravitas were replaced by new types of isms. Dictators took advantage of these isms and began the mass slaughtering of those who desired to preserve the culture and traditions of Old Rome. The cream of manhood and leadership was exterminated and the republican form of self-govern¬ ment vanished. A race of people who had never had self-government came to power; for when citizenship was extended, the Orientals took advantage of it. Are pietas and gravitas not good watchwords for us today? I thoroughly believe they are. If we are to survive as a republic, we must carefully guard our voting franchise; we must see to it that the mantle of public service falls only on the shoulders of the reliable; we must uphold our ideals; we must be eternally vigi¬ lant. The history of Rome contains a lesson for us. If we fail to take heed of this lesson, the future will be uncertain. If we profit by this lesson our form of gov¬ ernment will continue on and will serve as a model to all people throughout the world. Richard Lewis, Faculty Honors THE PLACING OF RESPONSIBILITY Today, as in other generations, there is a great ten¬ dency to misplace the responsibility for the future of our civilization. This tendency is never more apparent than at a graduation, for at this time the youth is re¬ minded of the burden he must bear and the great ob¬ stacles he must overcome. The graduate is given the impression that as soon as he leaves school the privilege of leadership will fall upon his shoulders. Actually, nothing could be further from the truth: he must serve a long and arduous apprenticeship before his day of recognition arrives. Certainly true responsibility is not bestowed with his diploma. Our dominant generation must face the world and its problems. Those who are mature must use their maturity and experience to good advantage; they must leave the youth something to build the new order on when the battle is over. It is self evident that the great¬ est need for reform lies in the political realm. Both national and international politics reflect the crying need for career men in this field. It was the neglect of affairs political which caused the present poor con¬ ditions. An educated electorate and an enlightened and honest leadership would never have allowed such evils to accumulate. The youth of the world asks for nothing but an op¬ portunity to prove his worth when the time comes for such proof. We are all confident that the present re¬ sponsibility will be met firmly, and we give our assur¬ ance that the coming generations will be ready, willing, and equipped to accept the burdens placed upon them when the time for such action presents itself. Charles Sullivan, Class Honors. THE CODE OF THE ROAD A man who has one hundred dollars that his wife has given him to deposit will usually drive carefully on his way to the bank. Other men will drive cautiously when they have in their car passengers whose possible injury their insurance does not cover. Still others may carry a mental memorandum of the more dangerous hours of the day and the more dangerous days of the week for driving and govern themselves accordingly. But ideal road conditions will come only when all men are so educated that they appreciate the value of safe driving at all times. Summer is nearly here, and with it more cars will be on the road. But it won’t be these cars that will cause the trouble; it will be their drivers. Only a frac¬ tion over one percent of the accidents last year were due to defective cars. Major causes were the careless driver and the careless pedestrian. In eighty-two per¬ cent of the cases, plain disobedience to the most elemen¬ tary rules was indicated. Thirty-three The Pioneer 19 40 HUMOR One cure, of course, is education. Today hundreds of people are engaged in teaching the principles of good driving, concentrating on the education of the young driver, however. In schools every year there are safety drives. But many of the drivers on our roads have not been taught by competent instructors, and have acquired incorrect and dangerous driving habits. These faults should he corrected. But the moral issue involved us even more important than this educational one. Do we want to drive carefully? Do we want to obey the law or do we choose to cross Prescott Street and Summer Avenue against the red light because we think we can get away with it without being noticed? 1 he code of the road is a code of honor and skill. Skilled drivers are responsible drivers. Educated driv¬ ing pays dividends morally and financially. Raymond Hutchinson, Faculty Honors. WOMEN AT WORK Over 2300 years ago Euripedes declared, “A woman should be good for everything at home, but nothing away from it. Throughout the centuries, men have been reluctant to abandon this point of view, and women until recently have acquiesced. But today, America’s civilization is characterized by the advancement of women in new fields. For the American girl graduate many opportunities lie waiting. Schooling for girls was not of any importance to our colonial ancestors. In 1788, Northampton, where Smith College now stands, is reported to have voted that it would not waste the town funds on the education of girls. The clamor for equal education with men be¬ came so great, however, that in 1837 Mary Lyons found¬ ed Mt. Holyoke Seminary for Girls. Soon afterward came Vassar, Smith, Wellesley, and Bryn Maur. Ober- 1 in granted the first bachelor’s degree to a woman in 1841, after it had courageously opened its doors to women on the same terms as men. The crisis brought on by the World War found women trained and eager to step into business and professional vacancies. Today many diversified positions are open to women; there are many famous personages whom our graduates can emulate. Elsie MacGill, M. I. T. graduate, is Canada’s only girl aero engineer; her job includes the designing of military planes. Through newspaper work and magazine experience, Willa Calher rose to win the Pulitzer Prize in 1922. Dorothv Thompson, once a social worker, sough t new excitement as a foreign correspondent. She earns about $25,000 a year with a syndicated column, radio commentating, and magazine articles. Bette Davis, once looked upon as a fame-struck girl with “no more sex appeal than a stringbean”, has twice won the Academy Award. Today, Euripedes would, in the light of such suc¬ cesses in varied fields, probably re-state his quotation to read. “American women have proved to be good for everything, both at home and away from it.” Jean Sargent, Class Honors. “You look nice enough to eat, said the admiring young man. “I do eat, replied S. T. severely. M iss Ernst (catching Normie Lloyd looking out the window)—“Norman Lloyd, you stop that!” Normie (watching a tornado (?) approaching): “I 11 try to, if she comes this way.” Franklin Bryant: “Have you any four-volt two- watt bulbs?” Gilbert Camp: “For what?” Frankie: “No—two.” Gilbie: “Two what?” Frankie: “Yes.” Irving: “I’ve a surprise for you-—two tickets for the theatre.” Grace: “Fine, I ll start dressing at once.” Irving: “Yes, do, my dear. The tickets are for tomorrow night.” Mr. Halpin (finishing a long algebra problem) : “And so we find that X equals O.” James Hawes: “All that work for nothing!” Miss Zimmermann: “Every day we breathe oxy¬ gen. What do we breathe at night?” Junie Gray: “Nitrogen.” Gertrude: “Did you sweep behind the door, Rita?” Rita: “Sure! 1 swept everything behind the door.” Harry, Jr.: “What is college bred, Dad?” Harry, Sr.: “They make college bread, son, from the (lour of youth and the dough of old age.” At the end of the school term, prizes were awarded. When one of the seniors returned home his mother chanced to be entertaining callers. “Well, Tom,” said one of the callers, “did you get a prize?” “I didn’t exactly get a prize,” responded Tom, “but 1 got a horrible mention.” Betsy Foxeroft Thirty-four 19 40 The Pioneer THE FACULTY Front row: Mary Devaney, Elva Buckley, Elizabeth Maclver, Helen Stanwood, Carmen Simon. Second row: Helen Zimmerman, Marian Pratt, Elizabeth Batchelder, Alice Hayden, Alberta Drury, Helen Ernst. Third row: Philip Althoff, Herman Wheeler, Imrie Dixon, Reginald Kibbee, Joseph Fitzgerald, Russell Taylor. Fourth row: Rudolph Sussmann, Luke Halpin, Samuel Peck. Pictures of several of the staff not in the above group are to be found elsewhere in this issue of the “Pioneer”. PIONEER BOARD From row: Kay Witham, Mary Mating, Dorothy Babcock, Erdine Farwell, Nancy Holcomb, Carleton Adams, Lucille Gonnam Carolyn Campbell, Eleanor Pestana, Katherine Conron, Beverly Pitman. Middle row: Russell Coombs, Donald Hills. Charles Sullivan David McGee, Shirley Field, Claire Johnson, Jean Sargent, Ruth Shumaker, Betsy Foxcroft, Ixtis Ives, Doris Steele, Evelyn Comey. Back row: Donald Whitford. David St. Hilaire, Sherman Poland, Horace Jones, Gilbert Camp, Gregg Brewer, Stanley Stem- bridge, William Jaques, Rae Amback, Glenn Davis, Richard Fellows. Thirty-five The Pioneer 194 0 Senior Banquet Speeches CLASS PROPHECY I lie sun sank in a blaze of glory behind the purple ridges of Piker s Peak in North Reading. The oncom¬ ing dark night with a rising mist shut out the valley. Only the top of the peak was silhouetted in a dark rag¬ ged outline. At its summit there stood a small dingy looking building. It was the observatory, laboratory, office, and home of that great scientist (1965) Professor Warren Eldridge Hill—a learned man steeped in the field of astronomy and other nonsense. He was a queer looking little man with small beadlike eyes; he was rather short and stooped of stature, with long hairy arms and legs. His apparel included a brilliant green skull cap that covered his gray matted locks, long green corduroys, and an ancient moth-eaten sweater—relics of the late 30’s when they had served as his green en¬ semble at R. H. S. He wore huge tortoise rimmed glass¬ es through which he gazed at the heavens. (They were more powerful than the most powerful telescope in the w T orld.) Now, for six months, Hill had been studying the stars and the heavens and he was talking with his secre¬ tary, May Melanson. He spoke in a deep gutteral voice. “May, my child, I shall be frank. This world, at ex¬ actly three minutes after five, 1966, is going to come to an end. It is going to be hit by a huge meteor, which is now 46,000,000,000 miles from the earth and heading straight on. We must be quick. There is only one way to escape and that is to have a rocket plane built to leave the earth. 1 have decided to take my class at R. H. S. with me as they were my best friends and will make enjoyable companions. We shall have my agents, you know, of the I. G. C. round them up. They’re good at that sort of thing,” concluded the little professor. Two months passed and the first I. G. C. agent re¬ ported to Hill: “Sir, I have brought you some of your former friends. 1 have gone all over the world to get them but they ' re here. At my left are Atkinson and Birkmaier; they’re the heads of that huge dairy farm down the other side of the mountain. Next, may I proud¬ ly present that glamorous girl, Miss Bowers, who’s modeling at Saks, Fifth Ave., New York. But to you, Prof., sbe’s just Gracie. Here’s Evelyn Comey. Boy, Professor, you ought to hear her sing—she was in a broadway review last fall. Ah, and here is someone you ' ll remember: Jeanette! Miss Davis is now happily married to a Slippery Rock graduate. She helps him run his meat market in Memphis. Over there, that quiet looking man you will remember as Bill Jaques. He’s heading the Latin department at M. I. T.—Mudville In¬ stitute of Tech. Behind him is that cute one, that Mar¬ tha Randall, now the wife of Percival Darlington Bums- tead, the famed English icythiologist. Oh, yes, and there’s ole Hy; you remember Johnny Hrynowsky, star athlete. We used to call him “Star . He’s running a haberdashery in Brooklyn now. Thirty-six Hey, Hezzy, come up here and meet Professor Hill. Professor, Hezzy has finally got to be Mayor of W oburn. What a city that will be when Hezzy gets out of office! The tax rate is already going up. In the rear there are Frank Doucette, Eddie Keene, and Bill Jones. They’re joint owners of the Omaha Trucklines. They’ve made their money in the liquor-hauling business—of course it’s on the level. Well, well here’s old Hitch, Bobby Hitchcock, world famed polo player and play¬ boy. He’s got as much money as anyone in the country. Say, Professor, you know those swell figure drawings in Esquire —well, meet the artist—Miss Bette Kimball, still beautiful and single. Hubert Lieberman next to her is also an artist; he draws cartoons for the Chicago Tribune and has them syndicated in 563 papers through¬ out the United States. Remember Dick Lewis? He’s president of the More Power Electric Light Company in Schenectady. Here’s Sherman Poland, state attorney number one. He’s in line for the U. S. attorney general¬ ship. “I had a hard time getting A1 Leman, but I got him. He’s been playing with his orchestra at the Ritz Savoy in Hollywood, you know. I also found Earl Madden and Herb White of the Cardinals, that St. Louis base¬ ball team. They’ve been up in the big time for twenty years and Madden was voted best pitcher in the National League for six years, while Herbie led the batting aver¬ ages in 1950 with a tremendous .484. There are Charley Nickerson and Tony Tine. They own three tugboats in New Orleans. Eleanor Jayne and Alice Gorey, by the way, are cafe owners in Las Vegas. Out there in the gold fields, they do a good business. And there’s Dot Leach; she runs that ritzy riding school down on Long Island. She is a famous horsewoman now. And here come the three bad boys: Richardson, Selfridge, and Swett. They’re running a gambling ship off Seattle. They are really good guys, even if their occupation is rather shady. 1 here’s Clark Nyman of Universal Stu¬ dios. He’s made his name in the movie world. “Two more of baseball’s immortals are here—Red Perkins and Dick Merritt, outfielder and catcher respec¬ tively of the world champion New York Yanks. Perk was leading batter for the Yanks for four successive years and Dick broke Babe Ruth’s record of sixty homers by smashing out a total of seventy-three four base knocks in 1952. John Zynsky, the stout one sitting down over there, is a recognized builder and contractor. The name of Zynsky and Son is well known throughout New Eng¬ land building circles. Anthony Sareone has been a pro at Meadowbrook for ten years and in 1949 won the na¬ tional open in Chicago. Babe Roberts and Tonv Rose run an open air market in Decatur, Illinois, Professor, and Georgie I edeman has his own advertising business, occupying three floors in the Empire State Building. Charles Warren, over near the wall, is an accomplished skier and instructor. He has taken part in three Olym- 19 40 The Pioneer pic winter sports carnivals. Walter Lewis and Tom Lacey are partners in their own company, which makes washing machines deluxe. Joe McGrath is a manufac¬ turer of dog food, and here comes Charles Taylor— that famous man of mystery. He is reported to be a government agent, hut that is only a report. Richard Avery (he’s the little thing behind that great big fel¬ low) is making a fortune up in North Reading on the fines he collects from speeders. He’s sheriff, you know. And that great big fellow that I mentioned—the one all covered with soot—is none other than Walter Hilton, a very successful chimney-sweep. Here’s Virginia O ' Brien; she’s a vacuum cleaner demonstrator and she makes the vacuum cleaners sound so glamorous that the last fellow she sold one to embraced the thing as soon as he got it. Then, here’s Kenneth Gaw, the curator of a museum of rare species of algae. And Barbara Cleve¬ land, who has finally perfected a method for removing wrinkles from prunes. Finally, may I present the world- famous jockey, Joan Vasey, who has made such a name for herself riding the world’s slowest race horse, ‘Moon¬ shine’. “That’s all of my contribution, Professor Hill. Here you have a class of people, the cream of the world. All have made their fortunes in some sort of occupation or another and all stand by, ready to do your bidding. ' Irving Holcomb, Agent No. 1 CLASS PROPHECY PART II Dear Hill: I understand you have contracted the Henderson brothers to build a rocket ship. Good enough! I spent day and night in a seemingly endless search looking for those people you assigned me. Many times I was dis¬ couraged and wanted to throw up the whole job, but one of your agents never gives up. The first name on my list took me to the wilds of Siberia, where I found Barbara Gonnam. 1 was quite sorry to find her leading a hard life. She has ten child¬ ren, ranging from two to fourteen years. I was fortu¬ nate in finding that her husband is none other than a class mate of yours, Donald Hills. As I understand it, he is a big shot labor leader who does nothing hut shoot off his mouth about the evils of the Russian government. After speaking to these two about your idea, 1 convinced them that you are right, and they have agreed to go with us on our journey. On my trip back to civilization via a rushing rocket, 1 met that demon of the rocket waves, Norman Lloyd, and his famous mechanic, Bill Campbell. We had a long talk and I found that on our first stop, which was France, we would he able to see that exotic French dan¬ cer, Mine Fifi Currie and her partner, George Hamm. We spent an enjoyable evening at the theatre, and I managed to contact these two. Now r came the problem of locating Doris Steele and Buddy Arthur. The last time they were seen was in Joe’s Hash House in London, England. 1 found that they were there on some secret mission for the United States government; so 1 went to Washington and inter¬ viewed the fearless head of the Secret Service and found him to be a former classmate of yours by the name of Edson Gray. He informed me that his two agents had been fired because they had tried to undermine the government by using their sex appeal. However, he promised to get in touch with them anti arrange for their departure with us. Now comes a sad tale in the darkest part of Asia. Dick Lawler and Rae Amback are reported to have been killed by a tribe of head hunters while they were mark¬ ing out a path for a new rocket line. Some say it was Lawler’s hair that caused their heads to he lifted. Boy, what people won’t do to add color to their ceremonies! It took me nearly three days to find Betty Dalton, since she is constantly on the move. You know how these society girls travel. Harry Barr was located for me by pure accident, since I came upon him traveling incognito. He had his secretary, George Bridges, with him; and I guess Harry was arranging some big business transaction in South America. One of my most troublesome people was Katy Browne. It seems she was one jump ahead of me (and the sheriff) every place I went. Finally, I found her just about to wrap her arms about some old hoy with plenty of dough. She agreed to go with us, provided that she could take her Santa Claus. After questioning her, I found that Santa was Leslie Kiltredge, who had struck it rich in some mining field. Irving Holcomb was easy to locate, since his name appears on his comic strip (“The Puny Man Makes Good, or Look What Charles Atlas Did for Me!”). I found Irv Dunn and Arthur Batchelder busy with a national chain of gas stations, with Joan Leonard as supervisor of the eastern branch. 1 sent Tom Connelly a wire and didn’t receive any answer for three days. Boy, these television stars are busy. However, he in¬ formed me that Stan Davis would go with us as our chief entertainer on the trip. Stan, of course, is a great friend of Tom’s and they will both leave together for your observatory. We are also lucky to have Speed Connelly as one of our prospective guests, since he will undoubtedly he able to help calculate our course with his tremendous volume of mathematical knowledge. It took a little time to locate Bernard Doucette and John Greenleaf, hut when I did I was quite surprised to find them both engaged in the newspaper business. I thought they were doing good work, but some people say that theirs is just a scandal sheet. They were play¬ ing up the slaying of Ruth Hamilton, whom 1 found to be a former classmate of yours. I was quite sorry to find an actress with such talent lost to the world. 1 went to the funeral and found the grave diggers were John Donovan and Ray Hutchinson. They were both Thirty-seven The Pioneer 1 9 4 0 STUDENT COUNCIL Fr nt b™a Gonnw P ° 1HtZ ’ Dorothy Arnett Barbara Jones, Stella Pollitz, Irving Holcomb, Mr. Spencer, Jeanette Davis, Bar- Second, row Kay Vnham, Rleanor Pestana, Roland Dewhurst, Alfred Gianascol, Sherman Poland, Tom Connelly, Nancy White, IJurd rovyjr i fussed Coombs, Richard Lawlor, Carleton Adams, Franklin Bryant, Glenn Davis, Herbert White, Donald Hitchcock, SERVICE SQUAD Front row: Back row : Richard Fellows, Charles Sullivan, Richard Lawlor, Raymond Hutchinson, Tom Connelly Sherman Poland, George True, Clark Nyman, Stanley Stembridge, Irving Holcomb, Rae Am back, Richard Tru Thirty-eight MB 19 40 The Pioneer glad to have a chance to see you again and promised to bring their old alehouse friend, Bob Jones, the trans¬ continental hum. Dick Young was not to he found, as he had left for the moon Saturday in a home-made rocket ship. Well, that makes four people gone from the ship and four less to feed. Ben Hodges and Mary were living in a little hovel in the New York slums. Ben is still on relief and seems to enjoy it. “Fat Mason owns his own green¬ house and all his financial matters are handled by Ches¬ ter Roberts, who just inherited a great fortune from his uncle. 1 found that Jay-boy Quinlan was involved in a larceny charge, so 1 bailed him out and arranged to have him leave with us. After he left, I found my watch missing. This completes my list. I hope all has been done to your complete satisfactoin. Respectfully submitted, Wallace Haselton, Agent No. 2 CLASS PROPHECY PART III Calling Warren Eldridge Hill—Calling Warren Eldridge Hill—This is to report the whereabouts and location of various members of the Class of 1940. Please consider the following as my final report: After leaving the observatory, I decided to go dir¬ ectly to Washington, the nation’s capitol, and inform our President, Charles Sullivan, a former outstanding member of the Class of 1940, of the plight of the world. 1 was greeted graciously by the President’s wife. You w ill remember her as the former vivacious Kay Witham. The President was immediately concerned with the wel¬ fare of the country’s people. I was sorry to inform him that only a limited number of people could embark on this trip in the rocket ship; namely, the Class of 1940. He didn’t wish to leave his country in peril, but he readily saw the advisability of not crowding the rocket ship. He and the First Lady were making plans for transportation when I left the White House. My next stop happened to be in Austin, Texas. It was a dreary, dismal night and 1 decided to seek proper lodging. I was told to engage someone to take me to the Ruderman Dude Ranch. The name sounded very familiar to me, and 1 decided to seek lodging there. hen 1 arrived, I found the ow ner to be none other than Dorothy Ruderman, the darling of the West. She gave me much information as to the whereabouts of several members of the class. She herself is making plans to transfer her ranch to other hands. Upon Dorothy’s advice, I stopped over in Holly¬ wood, or Follywood as it is now called, to seek an in¬ terview with the great movie star, Eleanore Glamarr (formerly Eleanor Pestana). She has just finished a great picture. Though quite a bit older, Eleanor still has maintained her youthful beauty and individuality. She is planning to take her special plane to the scene of her youth and to other members of the class once again. As I was leaving Eleanor’s dressing room, I happened to see a “Shadow” magazine. Suddenly, I remembered that a former member of the class is the head of the Shadow Magazine Corporation—none other than Robert Storey. I boarded a plane for Chicago and was ushered in to see Robert, after much red tape. It was harder to see him than the President. He was tak¬ ing a nap in his private office. Being informed of my mission, he immediately sniffed mystery and excitement. Of course, he w ill come as soon as possible. He is bring¬ ing you some of the most recent publications of the magazine which has thrilled him since his days in R. H. S. While I was in Chicago, I decided to see two, or maybe three, other people. Helen Foster was my next member. She now heads a cosmetics corporation. She has a monopoly on cosmetics, which the President and his representatives are trying to break. Margit Courossi was found in the creative department of John Dissel’s “Apparel Shop for Smart Young Women”. She was busily engaged, and I had to wait for half an hour be¬ fore I could get a chance to talk with her. Her employer and she will come as soon as they can get their present work cleared up. I passed through Washington again and perceived the President’s secretary, Louise Paltison, efficiently making arrangements for their hurried departure. She was very enthusiastic about the trip. North Reading is a place very near to her heart. She has not been there since 1941. As you will undoubtedly remember, the First Lady and she have always been inseparable In New York, I sought out William Hennessy, the editor of a Communist newspaper. He was in the midst of some “hot material and I waited patiently for some bit of recognition on his part. He disliked the idea of going on the trip with other newspapermen and particu¬ larly with the President, who is much opposed to the ideas set forth in this newspaper. Nevertheless, he con¬ sented and we can be sure of some very enlightening remarks during the trip. Shirley Field’s Hospital was my next stop. Shirley has been engaged in this humane service to mankind for a great many years and operates the hospital in an expedient manner. She was planning to retire anyway, so it will not be difficult for her to leave her work. The city of New York will miss her and her good work, though. In Florida, I came upon the dynamic Roberta Smith, owner of the Giants, the baseball team. She was showing one of the players how to throw an effective fast ball and how 7 to hit the ball so as to bring about a home run. In her middle age, she is very active. In a straightforward manner she told me she would leave immediately. Her one regret was that she could not take her beloved team along with her. When leaving Florida, I came upon a trailer. Upon closer examina¬ tion, I found the occupant to be Helen Robbins. She owns a trailer industry and operates it throughout the United States. She amalgamates business with pleasure. Expect her in one of her trailers. Thirty-nine The Pioneer 19 40 In Boston. I found Christine Ellis in the office at her Home for Aged Jitterbugs. She readily consented to come. Her venture has proved to be a tiresome one. Operating a home of old women who used to he particu¬ larly spry is a hard job. Jeanette Sargent, a part owner in a truck corporation which operates from Boston to Zanzibar, was also found in her office rapidly dictating to a foreign looking secretary. She is coming in one of her trucks. Upon learning the whereabouts of William Hoff¬ man, 1 traveled to Detroit. I found him dictating to Margaret Griffin and Jeanne LeFave, his indispensable secretaries. William is a maker of candid cameras in this city and reaps a neat net profit at the end of the fiscal year. His most dependable customer is Leonard Wright, a candid camera fiend; he will come only upon agree¬ ment that he bring his candid camera. He is bringing you one, too, Professor. You and he can take pictures on Mars. Margaret was making arrangements when I left. At Macy’s, 1 found Edith Arsenault and Pat Rem- ick, top-notch models who have been doing that kind of work since they left high school. They now model the more mature dresses, but once presented a very fas¬ cinating picture in the youthful styles. In Chicago, I listened to a case being tried by Phil¬ lip Surrette, the eminent criminal lawyer. I watched him deliver a convincing summary of the case to the jury. His client was acquitted. I caught him in a mo¬ ment of triumph, indeed. I hurried to the Chicago air¬ port and found Eileen Peters descending from a trans¬ continental flight. She is, of course, the well-known aviatrix. She has been lost twenty-seven times, but her courage has not been surpassed. I ran across Audrey Humphrey, Frank Buck’s successor, in a cage in Chicago. She was making a tour of the United States. She wanted to bring her pet panther, but I discouraged her. I made arrangements to have Eileen fly Audrey to North Read¬ ing. They will undoubtedly arrive together. I hope Eileen does not choose this time to get lost. 1 decided to round up the last person on my list who was in the United States. Warden John Earl White of Sing Sing was relectant to come, but I convinced him that his prisoners would not miss him. He is going to seek a pardon from the governor for all the inmates before he leaves. I took an ocean liner to Europe, where I came across Robert Van Laetham, U. S. Minister to England. He disliked leaving foreign affairs in a muddle, but i convinced him of the necessity of leaving at once. While in England, I came across Alma Mansfield of the Mans¬ field Amateur Hour. She was traveling in Europe trying to find prospects. In Paris, I heard of the presence of a strange psychologist. It was none other than Barbara Tasney. Ibis brilliant peison was setting Paris agog with her findings of the mind’s workings. Rita Tous- saint, who is head of a fortune-telling syndicate in Am¬ erica, and she were dining in a little cafe on the Rue de la Paix. In Norway, I looked up Vivian Hook, the l . S. Ambassador to Norway. You have undoubtedl) read of her accounts in the newspapers. Agnes White, the only woman in the Supreme Court at present, was found in Sweden. She had just arrived two days be¬ fore me and was saddened at the thought of leaving. Florence Whitaker, poet laureate of Texas, and Olive Skane, an eminent novelist and a profound scholar, were engaging in a few recollections of former school days. Olive still maintains her charm and poise; Florence still delights in doorknobs. In Denmark, I found Dr. James Hawes vacationing. His capable secretary, Jean Blier, greeted me warmly and ushered me into his suite. He has gained considerable weight and boasts a double chin and a moustache, which he delights in twirling. I left h im dictating rapidly to his secretary. In Switzer¬ land, I found Professor Norman Putnam taking a few days away from his laborious studies. He recently met Natalie Staples, a worthy acoustics authority, and Mar¬ jory Wentworth, the developer of activism, who were staying at the same hotel. I then ventured into Rumania and found Allie Benton, the famous lady boxer, showing the peasants a few tricks. Bernadine Conefy, the social re¬ former, and she were engaged at the local entertainment house for the next three months. They cancelled their engagements and are flying back to the U. S. A. and you, Professor Hill. In China, I came across Betty Blaikie, a mission¬ ary’s wdfe. She and her husband have been doing con¬ structive work among the underprivileged. They have done much good, and it is a shame to interrupt their doings. They are planning, however, to leave the mis¬ sion at once. From China, 1 went to Japan. There, 1 contacted Marjorie Wright, who is the leading bacteri¬ ologist from America. Her experiments are known all over the world. She would come only if I allowed her to bring her microscope. In Egypt, I ran across Bette Carter, the leading authority on hieroglyphics, doing some special work for a museum in the States. When 1 was passing through Cairo, I perceived a very lonely- looking woman sitting on the wide veranda of a hotel. Upon closer observation I found her to be Margaret Carney, who is a very close friend of Miss Carter. Miss Carney is, as you know, the leading historian of all the colleges in America. She was very anxious to come back to North Reading and see some former classmates. She and Bette are traveling part way by comet. I went back to England and looked up Dorothy Young, who, 1 understood, had married a wealthy Eng¬ lish nobleman. She was drinking tea on the terrace when I found her. She is bringing her husband along. I was forced to go back and trudge through Moscow to find a brilliant American woman. I had an opportunity to come face to face with her in the evening. Winnifred Johnston, a member of the Class of 1940, is a leading theorist, or ideologist on government. She was trying to find local color for her book on the Russian govern¬ ment. An agent of the Czar is escorting her to your observatory. Traveling southward to Italy, I stopped at Naples and found Helen Crane, an outstanding ento¬ mologist, digging for a special kind of bug. To her Forty 19 40 The Pioneer complete disappointment, I told her to leave her hugs at home. Next, I took a boat to the Virgin Islands and discovered Harold Doucette, head of a sugar cane in¬ dustry. He is bringing you some choice bits of sugar cane. Once more back in Shanghai, I found Gertrude Lorgeree running an orphan’s home. She threatened to bring her orphans. Expect them, too. Last, but far from least, I found Dorothy Babcock in Guatemala, where she has been attempting to acquire a tan but in¬ stead has only a hatch of freckles. (Remember, she always did freckle! ) Dorothy, as you undoubtedly know, is Dorothy Thompson’s successor. Her articles are always full of common sense and interest. She will lend spice and variety to our trip. We ll all see you soon! Jean Sargent, Agent No. 3 CLASS PROPHECY Part IV At last, one evening, the old school bus came to a jerky stop on the summit of Piker’s Peak, and the in¬ mates started to pour out, bag and baggage. One pom¬ pous gentleman (tall hat, gold headed cane, tails—you know the type) walked along, deeply engrossed in a heated dispute. ‘‘But I tell you, Adams, it’s outrageous! You’re weakening the very foundation of the state with these editorials in your radical paper. Why, that last one on tax reform. ’ “Arrr rats! Just because you’re the honorable Gov¬ ernor Bryant, you think you got the right to bleed the whole state! “Why, you!” But suddenly a funny little creature came running up to them. “Now, now, boys, there won’t be any taxes on Mars, you know. Lo and behold, it was none other than Snipe (Ronald Sawyer, in case you’ve forgotten after all these years) bubbling, per usual. He turned philanthropist in his old age. “Well. I ' ve got to find Vivian—haven’t seen her, have you? As he turned to go, he knocked over a pile of boxes which Barbara Holden was carrying. “My dear Miss Holden, forgive me! I ' ve knocked your clothes all over the ground,’ he murmured, but continued to retreat in search of Vi¬ vian. “Clothes! Those are my orchid plants, you wretch -the rarest specimens from my truck farm. Oh, Frank¬ ie, help me pick them up before some of them get lost! And you help me too, Carleton, but the radical editor had disappeared. Barbara Holden, however, wasn ' t the only member of the crew laden down with luggage, for presently Dorothy Bailey descended from the bus, dressed in a paint daubed old smock and dragging after her a con¬ glomeration of paint, crayons, brushes and similar para¬ phernalia which she had salvaged from her quaint old studio on Cape Cod. Following her came Waldo Gro¬ ver. holding some sort of queer gadget which he was explaining to Gilbert Camp, the great explorer. “You see, just push this lever, and this arm driven by the waterproof battery will drive through sand until it hits the clam. The contact will cause this red light to flash, and the vacuum system will bring the clam to the sur¬ face. That’s my new clam digger, and for an extra fif¬ teen dollars I can add a heating system which will thaw out the clams if you want lo dig them when you’re at the South Pole.’’ Suddenly a voice interrupted, “Oh no! no! I want to buy that,” and the two men looked up to see Erdine Farwell . “My girls simply dote on clam bakes; I’ll buy fifty.” “Your girls—fifty!” Gilbert gasped and turned rather pale. (Explorers don’t go for women—apt to hamper them, you know). “Yes, fifty. Oh, that’s right; of course you wouldn’t know—I mean my seminary, my charm school in Ver¬ mont.” But before the explorer and inventor had time to faint, Kathryn Conron arrived, clad in—of all things —a ballet skirt. She started to throw herself upon Er¬ dine with a gleeful squeal, but Miss Farwell, eyeing her severely, held her off. “You silly child! Where’s all that common sense you had back in 1940?” “Oh, I don’t bother with it any more; my manager does that, Miss Conron replied with a whimsical little P‘1 crp-l p D 1 t)D AC “Well, she’s doing a pretty bad job of it now,” Erdine commented dryly, but just then Jean Sargent came puffing up to the group. “What do you mean-—I’m doing a pretty bad job of it? I ' d just like to see you be manager for a mem¬ ber of the Ballet Russe and play nurse maid to her at the same time! Here, Spiffy, for goodness sake, put your coat on.” But Spiffy, meanwhile, had espied Betty White and Marion Henderson surrounded by a group of very sober, bespectacled little tots and, in a series of twirls, was dancing toward them. “Ye gods!” Gilbert groaned, “not another family?” “Of course not, silly, Jean threw back as she rush¬ ed after the ballerina, “just their group of maladjusted geniuses. You wouldn’t have to be told that Betty White and Marion are the nation’s leading child psychologists if you’d stay away from the South Pole long enough to read a newspaper!” As Gilbert and Waldo turned to go, Gregg Brewer came rushing toward them. ‘Well, well, well! Good to see you back, pals. Have you heard the latest gossip? Dorothy Barstow 7 is wanted by the police for robbery and arson. Our own Dotty turned gun-woman. Wow ! What a scoop for my Winchell column!” “Your Winchell column?” “Sure, you know 7 —old story—marries boss’s daugh¬ ter—boss retires, son-in-law takes over—and there I am in charge of Winchell’s gossip column.” “Now the world is coming to an end! Waldo groaned. Then suddenly, “Say, look over there—-George Whelpley with two women, and look at those hats! If that’s not food for your column, then I don’t know what Forty-one The Pioneer 19 40 George, hearing his name, came toward them. “Oh he quiet, Grover. This isn l class scandal. These are merely two of my models, Theo Farr and Marilyn Vaughn, and the hats they’re wearing are my latest crea¬ tions, straight from my Paris salon.” Just then two new voices broke in with, “Wow!” One added, “You better not let the girls wear those things to Mars! and the other chimed in with, “They’ll think we re declaring war.” “Well if it isn t the True twins!” laughed Marilyn. “You’re dressed like a million dollars,” added I heo. “What in heaven’s name have you been doing for a living?” “Oh, don ' t get excited, girls!” Dick retorted. “It’s just a correspondence course in individuality,” and George continued, “Sure, you know our motto: ‘There’s nobody like you in all the world. Stop being a double; be yourself ’ ” While the twins were lalking, Horace Jones had sauntered up to the group. “Well-1-1, if that isn’t clever of you boys. But I’m not doing so bad for myself, if I do say so. “Bet it ' s not within the law,” Dick mumbled. “Whadaya mean ? I’m professor in a dramatic school—head of the technique department and I take classes in long clinches myself.” Just then another new comer arrived. “Well, hello, boys. 1 hey looked up to see a rather chubby Eskimo— but no! closer inspection revealed Betsy Foxcroft. “You don t need to stare at me. I merely went to Alaska to be a missionary and I married an Eskimo. Moreover, I’m not the only one dressed like a freak. See that fez bobbing around over there? Well, that’s Stanley Stem- bridge, straight from Turkey. He almost brought his harem, but we told him there’d be more women on Mars so he left them in Turkey to blow r up with the world. And have you seen those two girls in satin over-alls? Well, they’re Ruth Tooley and Mary Ellen Ward, part¬ ners in a truck farming enlerprize—truck farming with glamour. And there’s Betty Miller in a football outfit; she’s taken Dick Harlowe’s place at Harvard. Done things for the Harvard football team Harlowe never dreamed of.” At that moment, four familiar red-heads joined the group—Lorraine Day, Muriel Powers, Virginia Perkins, and Jo Anna Stewart—clad in red shirts. Well, where are you from—Russia?” Jonesy wise cracked. Yes, citizen Jones, and no remarks, please,” barked Muriel Powers. “We overthrew Stalin,” remarked Lorraine. “Yes, and plan to overthrow the Martian govern¬ ment when we get there,” continued Virginia. “And, Citizen Jones, we’re starting with you!” was Jo Anne’s chilling climax. Such people as that miserable old hobo over there with freckles will be completely reformed!” Lorraine commented. A bystander who had been listening to this display put his oar in with, “That miserable old bum happens to be David McGee, a good friend of mine.” “Sir! said Virginia, turning to the new comer, but she stopped short, for there stood what looked like Dick Fellows except that his formerly slender face was puffed to the size of a balloon. When she finally recovered, she continued, “And you shall be placed on a diet! Y ou ve been eating too much.” Oh, you ' re bats! You’d look like the moon your¬ self if you’d spent your time as a social worker in a New York epidemic of mumps instead of strutting around like a rooster!” Other familiar faces of 1940 were to be seen in the crowd. For instance, there was Ruth Shumaker, wearing a sun bonnet and carrying a milk-pail. Rumor had it that she ran a retreat in Maine, where she advocated the “simple life (cows and buttercups and that, you know) and perhaps it was so, for there was a baby heifer tag¬ ging along at her heels. Alice Goodwin came cart¬ wheeling up to her and, when Ruthie gently murmured, “Whatever!” Boogie just yelled, “Oh don’t let me get you down! We trapeze artists do this all the time in the circus. Say, you know we ve got an awfully famous class. Just about everybody’s a champ.” “A champ? Whatever!” “Why, Mary Maguire and Margery Maguire are at swords points to see who’ll get the international cup for speed-knitting. Margery is the Italian champ and Mary is the German champ. And Evelyn Franklyn won the Woman’s Bicycle Race at the last Olympics, and Grace Schofield and Janetta Boyd are a world-famous concert pianist and violin duo, and Priscilla Garey is the world’s baton twirling champ, and Kathryn McDonough is the Eastern States Tennis Champ, but whenever you com¬ pliment her she just wails, ‘I know, but look at the freckles I’ve developed! and—and—and omigosh, what people!” “Well, Boogie, you missed one champ,” said a new voice, and there was David St. Hilaire. “See this medal? Well, that ' s what I got for being world’s fastest kiddy- car rider!” “Yes, and that’s why we’re here—to take care of you,” said another voice, and David looked up to see two crisply starched nurses, Betty Goan and Betty Beau¬ dry, eyeing him severely. “1 suppose you’re straight from a hospital, or some¬ thing, David remarked. “Hospitals give me a pain.” No, replied Betty Coan, “we re straight from our convalescent home on the Riviera.” “Y ' ou know, it’s the former Windsor Estate where the Duke and Duchess spent their early married days,” continued the other Betty. “Oh yes, yes mumbled David. “Convalescent homes—they give me an even worse pain.” Just then Betty Goan gave a scream and ran toward Robert Sullivan, who was wandering around through the crowd rather aimlessly. To calm the group, quite naturally startled by this outburst, Betty Beaudry ex¬ plained that Robert Sullivan was one of their star con- F or ty-tuo r V , ' FR|£NS HUBERT ' Ho TWC 5AH£ OLD JONCS £H-6rlRl-S 6£QR(t1 E , ftoy 1. Marilyn Vaughan 2. Olive Skane 3. Gilbert Camp 4. Robert VanLaetham 5. Mary Maguire 6. Franklin Hodges 7. Marjorie Wentworth 8. Jean Sargent 9. John Zynsky 10. Dorothy Young 11. Louise Pattison 12. Alice Gorey 13. Allie Renton 14. Jeanette Sargent 15. Alice Goodwin 16. Rette Kimball 17. Kathleen Rrowne 18. Kathryn McDonough 19. Hetty Carter 20. Evelyn Franklin 21. Martha Randall 22. Tom Connelly 23. Mary Maling 24. Dorothy Rarstow 25. Dorothy Hailey 26. Hetty Miller 27. Norman Putnam 28. Doris Steele 29. Leonard Wright 30. Marjorie Wright 31. Horace Jones 32. Charles Nickerson 33. Robert Jones 34. Hetty Coan 35. Kay Witham 36. Barbara Currie 37. George Whelpley 38. Charles Sullivan 39. Barbara Tasney 40. Eleanor Pestana 41. Richard Fellows 42. David St. Hilaire 43. Wallace Haselton 44. Harry Barr 45. Norman Lloyd 46. Rae Amback 47. Marjorie Maguire 48. Ronald Sawyer 49. Muriel Powers 50. Jeanette Davis 51. George Bridges 52. Barbara Holden 53. Richard Young 54. Alma Mansfield 55. Vivian Hook 56. Betty Blaikie 57. Ruth Shumaker 58. Lorraine Day 59. Dorothy Babcock 60. Gregg Brewer 61. Donald Hills 62. Anthony Rose 63. Muriel Arthur 64. Gertrude Lorgeree 65. Agnes White 66. Jeanne LeFave 67. Coach Holgerson 68. Theo Farr 69. Arlene Peters 70. Richard Avery 71. Gerald Coleford 72. Robert Storey 73. Anthony Tine 74. Harold Doucette 75. David McGee 76. John Greenleaf 77. Thomas Lacey 78. Stanley Stembridge 79. Robert Sullivan 80. Richard Lewis 81. William Jaques 82. Elwood Richardson 83. Alice Humphrey 84. Erdine Farwell 85. Olive Porter 86. Margit Courossi 87. Helen Foster The Pioneer 19 40 valescents, who had formerly been a famous spiritual medium, hut who once when in a trance hadn’t come all the way back. While she was talking, a slightly chubby individual, dressed in a stunning yet conservative dark blue reefer and a globe trotter hat appeared. She wore gloves (a rare thing in this gang) and she gently rocked a baby carriage as she stood listening to them. When they turn¬ ed to look at her, she smiled and said very happily, “Hello, everybody.” “Muzzey!” cried Ruth. Sure enough, it was Mar¬ jorie Moses. “Well, what have you been doing for amusement? “Oh, nothing. I got married and I live in a little cottage with roses over the door, and a husband, and a baby. It’s nice.’’ At that moment the door to the observatory opened and there stood the stooped, fuzzy, begoggled old scien¬ tist. A hush fell over the crowd. Then in his quavering, gutteral growl he said, “Classmates, I greet you. It is with joy that I tell you that the meteor which one year ago I calculated to be 46,000,000,000 miles from the earth, was, in reality 46,000,000,001 miles from the earth, and, instead of crashing into the earth, will hit the moon. Bye now!” Dorothy Babcock, Agent No. 4 CLASS WILL We, the most illustrious and honorable Class of 1940, who are about to become a part of the milling throng seeking fame and fortune, do herewith bequeath and bestow these humble gifts. It is our fond hope that all recipients will utilize them to their best ability and always remember their class—who just couldn’t forget them. We Bequeath: 1. A leather bound book on etiquette to Irving Holcomb so that he may always have a sufficient amount f 99 oi Urace . 2. This silver-trimmed, super-action compass to Bob Hitchcock to aid him in those frequent journeys to the North and also to provide for his welfare in case of possible loss of direction. 3. To Stan Davis, whose “hot licks’ have long re¬ sounded through these stately halls, these ice cubes so that his temperature (not his music) may be a little cooler in the days to come. 4. To the Juniors, who have so faithfully obeyed our slightest whim, the sole right to enforce rules and make the other children toe the mark. 5. To Coach Holgerson, whose skiing at the Car¬ nival was commented on by all who witnessed the exhi¬ bition. this feather-stulfed, satin-bound pillow to be care¬ fully reserved for the next carnival—whereupon he may use it at his own discretion. 6. To Dickie Merritt, these roller skates so he can speed to North Reading and thus eliminate any of his less agile rivals. 7. To M rs. Wiens, this one word—“THANKS”— for having coached the most commendable performance to be seen in dear ol R. H. S. for many a moon! 8. To Jeanette Davis, this periscope to be of gen¬ eral assistance in enabling her to see over the steering wheel when she maneuvers around town. 9. To those handsome twins, these bee-u-tee-ful moustaches—-a red one for George and a white one for Dickie. Never again shall we become befuddled upon encountering the two together! How True! How True! 10. To Charles Sullivan, our “Answer Man”, this six-month engagement on “Information Please” so he can step into his own class and compete with the rest of the experts. 11. To Normie Lloyd, this pair of fur-lined car¬ pet slippers so the students will no longer be annoyed by the commotion when he strides across the study hall. 12. To Mr. Fitzgerald, this lovely barometer and a crystal ball. We are sure that he will enjoy the for¬ mer very much, as it will save him the trouble of buy¬ ing a newspaper to watch for storms at Senior Carnival time. The latter will enable him to set the date right the first time. 13. To our diminutive Barbara Currie these fans. Perhaps she can find a good use for them. 14. As June is the month of brides, this tin plated can opener to a becoming subject. Miss Devaney, will you step forward and be the happy recipient of this erstwhile gift? 15. To our treasurer, who is well known for sar¬ torial perfection, this dime hanky. Just a fond remem¬ brance of happier days. 16. To one member of the back stage union, B. Franklin Hodges, this copy of “June Mad” so he may learn Carleton’s lines and go into further cahoots with Mary Maling. 17. To the one and only Mr. Halpin, teacher of mathematics in this institution of higher knowledge, this beautifully embossed marriage license. The cost was exactly $2.00, and certainly such an expensive gift can¬ not be overlooked. 18. To the School Board, this copper penny, very r genuine, to start a fund for a new assembly hall in the Reading Senior High School. 19. To Miss Ernst, this pencil holder, so she won’t have to put a pencil in her hair. (This token was by special request.) 20. To the members of the faculty, who have strug¬ gled these three (?) years to instruct us in “book-larn- ing” and are (we hope) proud of their efforts, with due consideration—“ALONE”. 21. To the incoming Senior Class, our unpaid bills, which include some twenty odd bills for articles given forth in this last statement of the Class of 1940. Having composed this masterpiece after much pen¬ cil-pushing on our part, we close with no farewells or goodbyes—just so-long everybody, and good luck! Alice Goodwin David St. Hilaire Forty-four 19 40 The Pioneer CLASS HISTORY Sophomore-Junior Years, 1937-1939 Hello! Well, here we are again way back in the fall of 37. Remember? On that memorable day we stood—a group of f resh-cheeked, bright-eyed, ex-froshs -before the awe-inspiring pillars of R. H. S. And did we have ideas! “We 11 show this place a thing or three,” we piped and then dashed noisily into that frightening era known as “The High School Age . For a week we shivered in our boots, gaped at the famed statutes, bravely took the mild contempt of the school as a whole, obeyed all orders, and in general enjoyed ourselves. Then, after the newness wore off, we settled down to work. Our first class meeting was held in the spring, and the following officers were elect¬ ed: Jeanette Davis, president; Alice Goodwin, vice- president; Richard Fellows, treasurer; and Barbara Gonnam, secretary. Under petite Jeanette’s capable guidance we steered our social course for the outstand¬ ing moment in any sophomore’s life—the annual Sopho¬ more Hop. Thanks to a splendid class spirit, fine of¬ ficers, and the aid of our adviser, patient Miss Simon (God bless her!), this event was a tremendous success. Over ninety couples attended. We’re not bragging, but (ahem) we have heard it said that the class of ’40 is a very promising group. It was in our sophomore year that such athletic prodigies as “Red ' Lawler, “Dick Merritt, “Perk” Per¬ kins, and other fellows began to show their grit on the old gridiron. Just wait,” they said, “until we re Sen¬ iors and grow a little bigger!” Athletically, the re¬ mainder oi the year was taken up with baseball, basket¬ ball, and golf. After the mid years (and we will say this: we did pretty well for beginners) the snooty Sen¬ iors began to sit up and take notice of us. “Will you look at that,” they sneered; “those measly Sophomores are getting “A’s!” Then came the day of reckoning. The Seniors graduated. Old scores were settled, and we were brutal¬ ly thrust into a new stratum—that of full fledged Jun¬ iors. By this time we had acquired the sophistication and glitter of savants and other such worldly creatures. Class officers were again elected, and again, Jeanette Davis w-as chosen to guide the proverbial ship of state, with the assistance of Barbara Gonnam as vice-president, Eleanor Pestana as secretary, and Dick Fellows as treas¬ urer. Thus armed, we nonchalantly began to fill our new capacity and to feel a warmer relationship with the Senior Class and a bored eondecension toward the new Sophomores squealing and incessant “Could you tell me where Room Two is, please?” “No, no” we whisper¬ ed, “don ' t go in there; that’s Mr. Halpin’s room!” The above-mentioned worthy succeeded Miss Simon as our class adviser, and he immediately commenced to pound through out craniums the fact that our treasury stood at nil plus, which, he explained, is a geometrical term meaning broke. This scare gave us a sprinkling of gray hairs, but we all got together and pushed. With our determination and Mr. Halpin’s formula for financial success we managed to raise enough filthy lucre to war¬ rant the giving of our Prom. To quote that literary gem, The “Pioneer’: “This year’s Prom was the outstanding dance in the school ' s history. ' There, how’s that? Again, athletically, members of our select group captured stellar honors. The boys (and girls) gave their all until we literally permeated the sport writeups. Again, we tackled exams and wiggled by until we stood once more at graduation w r eek on the threshhold of a new and glorious era. We closed the year with the brilliant Junior-Senior Reception, which left Mr. Halpin beaming into his book of theorems. Now that we are members of the “elect,” we are wondering which bother¬ ed us the most way back there as Sophomores—the aloof¬ ness of the Seniors or the snobbishness of the Juniors. We wmnder if we acted that way. Tom Connelly CLASS HISTORY Senior Year, 1939-1940 Listen, dear class mates, And you shall hear The special events of Our Senior Year. On the sixth of September in ’39 We came back to school A feeling fine, Remembering this was Our last year here. The struggle in athletics Was pretty drear But our gay cheering section Filled us with cheer. The exams were a gloom, And deficiencies, too; For who among us Did not have a few? Assemblies were frequent And none (?) of them bores; Noon dances were famous Though some stood in the doors; Lunch period was the favorite; Detention was a bore; Calls to the office were not So frightening as before. Some of us played hockey; Some shone at basketball, Others in football or baseball, And a few r at debates in the hall. “No School” days and fire drills Made pleasant recesses, Forty-five The Pioneer 19 40 While sickness caused others Absence excesses. The Tramp Dance was a high light As was the dance for our captain; The carnival made our sky bright After no snow—and more snow— Made the date so uncertain. From the start to the drop of the curtain The Senior Play was a wow, And flowers were well-deserved As each player took a bow. Junior Prom was a joy And the Yodeling-Jive Sport Dance, too; Some went to the Junior Woman’s Club one And to the Sadie Hawkins, not a few. Some bowling and swimming In special small groups went; Bulletins kept us posted On each coming event. Photos at Sargents— To be or not to be? My Lord! did that proof Really look like me? Class rings were beauties And proudly worn; Dues were necessary But made us forlorn. Hi-Y Formal and Sophomore Hop Added fun to our year— And this week of graduation With parting so near. The faculty, too, So loyal and dear, Helped us oft and much In our Senior Year. Always patient with guffaws and giggles in class. They toiled with us faithfully And helped us to pass. Association with teachers And class mates while here Grew closer and dearer In our Senior Year. This school is a mem’ry But its high standard sincere Means success in each endeavor And teaches us duty so clear. Wjth a sigh of regret That this is all history, But with high hope—we go forth To seize opportunity! Here’s to the past days we happily knew! Here’s to the gay days we’re now living through! Here’s to the glad days I’m sure we shall see! Here’s to you, class mates, with good wishes from me! Kathryn Conron HUMOR Betty: ‘‘Just think, mother, a poor worm provided the silk for my dress. ’ Mrs. Miller: “Why, I’m shocked that you should speak so disrespectfully of your dear father! ’ Guide: “This castle has stood for six hundred years. Not a stone has been touched, nothing altered, nothing replaced. Dickie: “They must have the same landlord we have.” S. T. Currie: “I should like to try on that dress in the window.” Clerk: “Sorry, lady, but you ' ll have to use the fitting room.” Richard Merritt, applying for a job, asked, “Have you an opening for an office boy?” “Yes,” said the employer gruffly, “and don’t slam it on the way out.” Virginia: “Hello, there postman!! Got a letter for me?” Postman: “Is this package yours? The name is obliterated.” Virginia: “It couldn ' t be mine. My name is O’Brien.” Eleanor: “Can this coat be worn in wet weather without hurting it?” Fur salesman: “Lady, did you ever see a skunk carrying an umbrella?” Blackie Leman: “Yes, old pal, I ' m the fastest man in the world.” Kay Witham: “How come?” Blackie: “Time flies, doesn’t it? Well, I beat time.” Lenny Wright: “Dad, you are a lucky man!” Mr. Wright: “How is that?” Lenny: “You won’t have to buy me any school books this year. I’m taking all of last year’s subjects over again.” Betsy Foxcroft Forty-six 19 40 The Pioneer BASKETBALL The Reading High Basketball Team, better known as The Loxy Five, had a most successful season, being undefeated in twelve league encounters, winning the Middlesex League Championship, and going on to the Tech Tourney, where they were nosed out by a soliLary point. This point might have resulted in winning the tourney because Framingham, the team which beat The Foxy Five in the opening encounter, went on to win. The Foxy Five opened their official league session by defeating Lexington to the count of 26 to 13. Read¬ ing next dropped Concord 32 to 22 on the local court, and a few days later edged out a two point 25 to 23 victory over Belmont. FJp to this point Belmont had been conceded the league championship, but after The Foxy Five had taken their measure, people began to wonder if Reading had another championship team in the making, and, as the season progressed, the team be¬ gan to get more and more attention. Reading’s fourth victory was chalked up at the expense of Lexington, who bowed 26 to 14. After dropping Stoneham 34 to 20, our boys closed fast to beat the scrappy Wakefield Quintet on the Wakefield floor, 35 to 31. Led by sharp-shooting Herbie White, who scored 21 points single handed, The Foxy Five mopped up Winchester 42 to 23. Their eighth victory came at the expense of Concord by the score of 33 to 23, a triumph which they soon followed with a 34 to 26 victory on the Belmont floor. The game with Stoneham proved to be one of the most exciting of the season. Trailing until the final minute of play, The Foxy Five slipped a basket through the hoop to give themselves two points and a hectic 27 to 26 victory that clinched the championship. By defeating Wakefield 45 to 36 and severely trouncing Winchester 49 to 25, The Foxy Five concluded the season with a clean slate. While the first team had been obtaining all this glory, the second team, or The Foolish Five as they persisted in calling themselves, were doing a very effec¬ tive job in mopping up their opponents. When the season was concluded, it was discovered that they had ‘■fooled” their way into a two way tie with Lexington for the League’s second team championship. For several weeks before the season had closed, talk of the Tech Tourney was ubiquitous. Everywhere we went we could hear groups of students avidly engaged in discussing the chances of The Foxy Five, and White, Merritt, Hrynowsky, Hasellon, and Wright became the toast of the school as well as of the town. Finally the night of the Tech Tourney arrived and The Foxy Five, accompanied by a goodly number of loyal rooters, journeyed to the Hangar Gym, where one of the most thrilling battles of the year took place. When the final whistle sounded, Reading was trailing by the score of 42 to 41, and Framingham eeked out what proved to be the closest victory of the entire Tourney. During the game Dick Merritt was nothing short of sensational, scoring 19 points before he was benched via the four foul route. After the active play in the tournament was concluded he received the honor of be¬ ing unanimous choice for all-tourney center, an honor which he well deserved. Top scoring honors in the Middlesex League were carried off by diminutive Herbie White, with sharpshooters Lennie Wright and Dick Mer¬ ritt not far behind. Upon examination of the figures it was easily ascertained that Reading had the best team in the League, both offensively and defensively, as they scored more points than any other team while holding their opponents to a minimum of points scored. Hats off to a grand team and a grand year! The “Pioneer” wishes to take this belated opportunity of con¬ gratulating Coach Althoff and the players for their good work and it is our fervent desire to find another champ¬ ionship placque in the first floor corridor in the not-too- distant future. Those who were awarded stars in addi¬ tion to the medal which was won in the Tech Tourney were Herbie White, Dick Merritt, Lennie Wright, Wal¬ lace Hasellon, John Hrynowsky, Dick Lawler, Rae Am- back, Walter Hilton, Tony Sarcone, John Quinlan, and Chuck Taylor. The two managers, William Connelly and Robert Dunn, were awarded letters for their season’s work. Carleton Adams Forty-seven The Pioneer 19 40 VARSITY BASKETBALL TEAM Front row: Anthony Sarcone, Walter Hilton, Richard Merritt, John Quinlan, Rae Amback. Hack row: Wallace Haselton, Richard Lawlor. Herbert White, Leonard Wright. Not in picture: John Hrynowsky, Charles Taylor. BASEBALL When Coach Holgerson called out the 1940 base¬ ball aspirants, he found nine veterans reporting for ser¬ vice. The team, after a month of practice, shaped up as an outfit strong in hitting but somewhat weak in pitching. The first game seemed to prove just the op- possite, however, as in it—the opener with Lexington— the Reading stickmen garnered only five hits. But after that game, the boys came through, true to form. After losing the heartbreaker to Lexington, we really went to town and chased the boys in blue back to Stoneham with a 31 to 21 shelling, a game that featured heavy hitting and loose fielding by both clubs. Also we de¬ feated the strong Belmont club and the team from Win¬ chester—the latter game providing the spectators (as well as our coach) with plenty of thrills. Holding down the first sack position was “Jack” Collins, a left handed slugger. A real hitter and a de¬ pendable fielder, “Jackie ' saved the infielders embar¬ rassment on many an occasion with his brilliant stops. Again at the keystone combination were “Sherbet” White at second and “Hokie” Holcomb in the short field. These two were co-captains and played their parts well in guiding their team to a successful season. John “Jay” Quinlan was stationed at the third base sack for most of the season. A possessor of a strong arm, John robbed many a player of base hits with his fast throws on slow rollers and bunts. Out in the deeper gardens, “Red” Perkins patrolled the left lane. “Red” was really a slugging sunset. It was a common sight to see a brilliant wave of color go streaking around the bases for extra base blows. In the center garden, “Blackie” Stephanian took his share of the fly balls. He was a good fielder, but the thing that he excelled in was hitting. “Blackie” loved to hit, and that is one reason why he batted well over the 500 mark as this “Pioneer” went to press. In the sunfield, handsome “Woody” Titcomb (“Brush, Brush” to his friends) did his duty. Again, this blonde lad was strictly a slugger, always a dangerous man to have at the plate with men on base. “Dick Merritt held the backstop position. His strong arms caught many a runner off base as well as on steals, and his tremendous hitting drove in the runs when they were needed. “Dick was the fastest man of that slow trio, Titcomb, Stephanian and Merritt. Tit- comb was reported to have done the 100-yard dash in as little as 25 seconds, but that was only a rumor. Three pitchers composed Coach Holgerson’s hurling staff: “Obie” O’Brien, our “Little Sir Echo” from last year, “Andy Anderson, the 180 pound, redhaired sophomore, and “Tony” Rose, the surprise of the year. “Obie” did a good job in his hurling and was really a credit to out- team. “Andy”, though somewhat inexperienced, turned out to he a promising twirler and in two years should really prove his worth. “Tony” surprised us all by going into the Winchester game in the seventh inning and holding the enemy, in addition to which he himself helped to win the game with a triple. Incidentally, “Obie” also got a triple in one game. “Wrinkle” Kelly and “Mouth’ Crooker composed the second string mound combination with “Mugsy”, between his many antics, throwing a good hall. All of the boys appre¬ ciated “Mugsy and his locker room performances. Of course, the team missed that great Edgar “Stinky” Davis. However, Edgar is again twirler, we Forty-eight 19 40 The Pioneer BASEBALL TEAM 4 First row: James Robertson, Gerald Colford, Clarence Arsenault, Charles Collins, Arthur Knapp. Second row: John Quinlan, Woodbury Titcomb, Jack Collins, Richard Merritt, Irving Holcomb, Coach Holgerson, Herbert White, Albert Stephanian, Donald O’Brien, Anthony Rose. Third row: George Beaumont, Michael Stephanian, Robert Perry, Donald Douglas, Glenn Davis, Robert Anderson, Joseph Mer¬ rill. Harry Irons, Ralph Frotten, Leonard Rose, George Marchetti, John Crooker. understand, for the Mudville Juniors. He is a lad of tremendous possibility and some day, if he works hard, we are all sure that he will make the grade for the Mud¬ ville Intermediates. And not to forget the great Dunn, our manager, let us all say that he did a good job. “Irv was always on the ball; he gave a good account of the equipment. All in all, there was a great crew of fellows out theie, and a grand coach. We really did have fun and got good experience for future reference. Our s hedule follows: April 24 Reading 0 Lexington 1 April 30 Reading 31 Stoneham 21 May 3 Reading Q O Belmont 6 May 7 Reading 3 Concord 5 May 10 Reading 16 Winchester 15 May 14 Reading Lexington May 17 Reading Maynard May 21 Reading Belmont May 24 Reading Concord May 29 Leading Wakefield May 31 Reading Winchester June 3 Reading Maynard Irving Holcomb HOW FOOTBALLS ARE MADE An Article With An Eye To The Future A football is an oval piece of air around which the skin of a pig has been carefully wrapped. Anybody knows that. But what few people seem to realize is that we can’t use just any air for footballs. We’ve got to have a special kind of air. It has to be super-heated and subjected to pressure so that it will stand a lot of thumping without getting dents in it. When Congress is in session, air from the House of Representatives is the best football air we can procure. If this air is un¬ available, we see Mr. Dixon and the period 4 U. S. His¬ tory class. Both of these have shown plenty of ability to take punishment. This air is then sliced into rec¬ tangular “blocs” and shipped to the factory in specially built football coaches. A spacious football coach can hold a lot of super-heated air. At the factory the “blocs” are broken into convenient pieces with air hammers, cut into th e familiar oval shape, and placed on the assembly line. Meanwhile, in another part of the plant, pigs are busy shedding their skins and running off to the minced ham department. Once in awhile we find a recalcitrant pig who refuses to shed his skin. I hese little rebels are sent into the Boris Karloff room, under the manage¬ ment of Coach Ormsby, where a workman makes faces at them and scares them out of their skins. The skins are then cut into the proper shape and stretched tightly over the oval hunks of air as they come down t he assem¬ bly line. After that there’s nothing to it. The footballs Continued on page 57 Forty-nine The Pioneer 19 40 FOOTBALL SQUAD -1 S ' Front row: Joseph Carder, Howard Bates, John Donovan, John Hrynowsky, Malcolm Johnston, Edward Keene, Coach IIol- gerson, Richard Lawlor, Willard Perkins, Jack Collins, Donald Dacey, Richard Msrritt. Second row: Tames Bain, Robert Tuttle, Albert Stephanian, John Crooker, Glenn Davis, Gordon Watkins, John Kelley, Rae Amback, Harry Barr, Robert Anderson. Third row: Michael Stephanian, Thomas Hubbard, George Black, Joseph Anderson, John Dagdigian, Thomas Hay, Russell Mer¬ rill, Joseph Marchetti, Bruce Putnam. Fourth row: Rudolph DeRosa, Roy Sherrod, Robert Henderson, James Robertson, Stephen Callan. TENNIS TEAM Front row: llenr Jaques, Rae Amback, Robert Sullivan, Clark Nyman. Frank ' in Bryant, Howard Bates. Second row: Chester Gunn, Stephen Callan, Norman Lloyd, Richard Lawlor, Richard Lewis, Coach AlthotT. Fifty 19 40 The Pioneer GOLF TEAM Front row: James Bain. John Donovan. Carlton Luce, Alden Heath. Second row: Alexander Dissel, George Whelpley, Harry Barr, Mr. Spencer, Stanley Davis, Horace Lander. GOLF When the spring manages to roll itself around, you will always, if you look hard enough, discover the Read¬ ing High golf team in action. This year we started our season against what was supposed to be rather weak opposition. You can understand and sympathize with our surprise, therefore, at finding that the first four matches, having been fought every yard of the fairway, spelled defeat for us. Of course, at the time this article is being written we have not played our schedule out by any means, and the team itself has been chagrined by the losses to a point where it does not seem likely that we shall lose again! We forfeited only one team member at last year’s graduation; hence, we were pretty sure of ourselve-. Rut fate, or whatever else may have had a foot in it, relieved us at the start of the season of two more play¬ ers, Higgins and Sarcone. We still have and are using three veterans of last year: Donovan, Barr, and Lander. Remaining members of the team, whose golf prowess goes not unheeded, are Davis, Hitchcock, and Luce. Our substitutes are Whelpley and Heath. We should like to express our gratitude to Mr. Spencer for the time and enthusiasm he has given us; we hope sincerely that we shall be able to show ' him our thanks by winning the rest of our matches. We are also indebted to the new pro at Meadow Brook, Clark Morrow, for allowing us two or three days a week, which ever was needed, for the playing of our home games. Harry Barr TENNIS With but two exceptions, which can be chalked up to last year’s graduation, Coach Althoff has an all vet¬ eran tennis team this year. There are seven Seniors on the squad, most of whom have seen service for the past two seasons. Mr. Althoff thinks that with the material on hand we should win all our matches and make a good showing in the Belmont Interscholastics this year. The squad members include these Seniors: Robert Sullivan, Clark Nyman, “Dick Lawler, Norman Lloyd, Richard Lewis, Franklin Bryant, and Rae Amback. Junior members are Chester Gunn and Howard Bates. Among us there is one lone Sophomore—Steve Callan. Thus far, we have defeated Danvers 4-1 and Stoneham 3-2. The remainder of our schedule is listed below: Reading at Vermont Academy Reading at Wakefield Reading at Danvers Reading at Stoneham Wakefield at Reading Belmont Interscholastics at Belmont Rae Amback Fifty-one The Pioneer 19 40 SOCCER TEAM Front row: Carleton Adams, Philip Burbine, Norman Putnam, Donald Hills, Richard Fellows, George Hamm, Roland Carpenter, Roland Dehurst, William Jaques, Walter Hilton. Second row: Martin Shapiro, Henry Jaques, Thomas Jacobs, Robert Perry, Kenneth Hills, Leonard Rose, Warren Winn. Third row: David Littlefield, George Brennan, Harris Pratt, Donald Baisley. CROSS COUNTRY TEAM Front row: Stephen Doucette, David Sheldon, Mr. Spencer, Anthony Tine. Second row: Richard Lewis, Robert Burrows, Arthur Batchelder, Sherman Poland, Bernard Doucette. Fifty-two The Pioneer 1 9 40 _ GIRLS ATHLETICS GIRLS’ BASKETBALL Front row: Viola Arsenault, Betsy Foxcroft, Muriel Powers, Barbara Currie, Betty Miller, Jeanette Davis, Margit Courossi, Kathleen Browne. Olive Skane, Katherine Conron, Florence Duggan. Second row: Lucille Gonnant, Frances Wheeler, Dorothy Doherty. Barbara Merritt. Esther Frotten, Barbara Bryant, Dorothy Arnett, Sonia Courossi, Dorothy Stratton. Doris Margeson, Elsie Mason, Alma Towle. Third row: Agnes Meuse, Virginia Perkins, Eleanor Williams, Gertrude Dahlquist, Jean Dow, Claire Johnson, Elinor Abbott, Patricia Lane, Jennie Gromyko, Patricia Donegan, Evelyn Peters, Bette Ellis. BASKETBALL The girls team again prepared very enthusiastically for another basketball season. Plenty of good material appeared at our first practice, and prospects looked very bright. The Seniors who stood faithfully by through¬ out the season were Captain Jeanette Davis, Betty Miller, Kathleen Browne, Olive Skane, Barbara Currie, Margit Courossi, Kathryn Conron, Muriel Powers, May Melan- son, Betsy Foxcroft, Virginia Perkins, and Betty Beau¬ dry. Juniors included Captain Sonia Courossi, Dorothy Arnett, Jean Dow, Dorothy Stratton, Esther Frotten, Florence Duggan, Barbara Bryant, Gertrude Dahlquist, Elsie Mason, and Patricia Donegan. Sophomores were Captain Alma Towle, Evelyn Peters, Barbara Merritt, Jennie Gromyko, Betty Ellis, Claire Johnson, Elinor Abbott, Eleanor Williams, Frances Wheeler, Marguerite Marstella, and Viola Arsenault. The season started with Arlington, our old unbeat¬ able enemy, defeating the Seniors and Juniors. The Sophomores, however, managed to withstand the terrific bombardment. file results were as follows: Seniors, 20-25; Juniors, 17-26; Sophomores, 15-13. The next week, although our hopes before the game had been high, we returned in defeat from Winchester. The heart¬ rending, so near but yet so far scores were Seniors, 14- 19; Juniors, 13-16; Sophomores, 17-21. Our first real evening session came when we showed Lexington that they couldn’t treat us as they treated the boys this fall in football. We were proud victors with scores that certainly made up for our recent beatings: Seniors, 29-13; Juniors, 36-3; Sophomores, 18-14. But shortly thereafter our friends from Melrose came over and mowed down the Seniors 22-29 and the Juniors 22-35. Again our little Sophomores managed to save our faces with a score of 18-16. This year, for the first time, we played Swampscott. We were so near the ocean that we almost went for a swim. Our first game with this team ended in a victory for good old Reading to the tune of 31-15 for the Seniors, 18-14 for the Juniors, and 26-12 for the Sopho¬ mores. Our return game with Swampscott proved an¬ other victory for the Seniors 27-11 and for the Juniors 27-25. In our last game of the season, we completely downed Wakefield in a glorious finale to the basketball season. Captain Jeanette Davis made the last basket ol the Senior team ' s career, which was most appropriate, and the final score was 21-19. The Juniors defeated the Wakefield girls 32-18. The Sophomores ended a very good season (having lost only one game) by win¬ ning 24-11. Because of her unending patience, we Seniors wish to leave to Miss JNichols our hearty best wishes for Fifty-three 19 40 The Pioneer GIRLS’ TENNIS Front row: Kathleen Wright, Alma Towle, Marjorie Webster, Lucille Gonnam, Nancy White, Natalie Coker, Frances Wheeler, Barbara Merritt, Dorothy Munro, Elsie Mason. Second row: Constance Scharton, Katherine Conron, Muriel Arthur, Betty Dalton, Mary Mating, Barbara Currie, Mae Melanson, Betty Miller, Betsy Foxcroft, Margit Courossi, Jeanette Davis, Barbara Gonnam. Edith Arsenault. Third row: Edith Kimball, Donna Packer, Frances Madden, Patricia Donegan, Evelyn McLeod, Marjorie Batchelder, Betty Shannon, Priscilla Nichols, Theo Farr. Joan Vasey, Virginia Perkins, Barbara Tasney, Marjorie Wright, Phyllis Gormlie, Evelyn Greenleaf, Marilyn Maxon, Florence Duggan. Fourth row: Kathlene Browne, Betty Kimball. Betty Parks, Baarbara Bryant, Dorothy Arnett, Jennie Gromyko, Jean Dow, Elinor Abbott, Claire Johnson, Patricia Lane, Carolyn Lumsden, Jean Danforth, Stella Pollitz, Dorothy Stratton, Lillian Davies, Helen Farr, Phyllis Garey, Sonia Courossi, Barbara Bird. future victories. She has abundant talent among her incoming Seniors and Juniors, A practice game the Seniors will remember vividly was one with the ninth graders, who had us worried for a while. The score was 12-11. Next year’s Sophomores would seem all right, too. Margit Courossi Dennis” Spring rolled merrily in, and as early as possible the courts were swarming with tennis fans practicing forehands, backhands, and other techniques. It wasn’t long before the season was in full swing, with a record number of eighty-five girls turning out for the tourna¬ ments! Needless to say, there was plenty of competition and no lack of games for anyone. For those who wanted to play on the tennis team, an elimination tournament was arranged. At this date, results have just been an¬ nounced, the following girls having made the squad: May Melanson, Barbara Gonnam, Betty Miller, Alice Goodwin, Betsy Foxcroft, Dorothy Stratton, Jeanette Davis, and Carolyn Lumsden. With additional practice, of course, others may make the grade according to Miss Nichols. Although our schedule has been made up, so far (May 15) no outside matches have been played. The team consists of good material, with all players holding their own and shaping up well. We hope to have a suc¬ cessful season and more than break even. Alice Goodwin Fifty-four BOWLING “Crash! Bang! A spare? No, a strike!’’ Yes, you’ve guessed it, bowling was off to such an accompaniment for another bang-up year. More than ever, 1940 seemed to bring out enthusiastic attendance. Why, somedays one actually had to wait half an hour or more for the chance to bowl. Lots of fun and good sportsmanship were to be found at Dan’s Place on prac¬ tice days. There were laughs galore when somebod ' . took a tumble on her knees or let the ball drop acci¬ dentally on the foot of a hapless team mate. The poor pin-boy never knew quite what to do when Betty Miller heaved that trusty arm of hers, and “Barb” Currie never did quite bowl her best with that ever present male gallery to fluster her. Six girls this year entered the amateur howling tournament in Boston. They were Jeanette Davis, Betsy Foxcroft, Betty Miller, “Prissy” Nichols, Claire John¬ son, Theo Farr, and May Melanson. Melanson and Johnson won respectively the fourth and the thirteenth prizes. The Seniors reluctantly retiring from the squad ex¬ tend a hearty wish that next year’s team have a striking¬ ly bright future! May Melanson 19 4 0 The Pioneer FIELD HOCKEY Front row: Theo Farr, Jeanette Davis, Barbara Currie, Winnifred Poland, Elsie Mason, Frances Wheeler. Back row: Frances Madden, Sonia Courossi, Miss Nichols, Muriel Powers, Olive Skane, Mae Melanson, Claire Johnson. CHEER LEADERS Edith Kimball, Florence Duggan, Dorothy Stratton, Sonia Courossi, Christine Ellis, Martha Randall, Helen Robbins, Jeanette Davis. Fifty-five The Pioneer 19 40 Some are old, some are new (in fact a lot are new this year), but they aren’t borrowed (they’re ours for keeps), and they come in all colors of the rainbow. One of them arrived in a specially gay shade of red—the “Alpha” from Wilmington. This little number covers news well: we doubt if anybody in the school escaped Dame Gossip’s eagle eye. Also in red, the “Tewksbury Hi-Lights” offers a good literary section with book reports playing an im¬ portant part. We found another good literary department in “The Mirror” from Waltham. The drawing that accompanied the nautical story “Off the Point” was outstanding; it would be nice to see more such illustrations. “The Focus” from Saugus is an exceptional maga¬ zine, for there are actually more poems than prose selec¬ tions in the literary department—and they’re good poems. Congratulations to your budding poets. Still, everybody likes a story, you know. Ipswich sends “The Cub” with its clever “Diary” and the encouraging editorial “Spring in Poland”, a happy relief from the pessimistic war editorials so abun¬ dant at present. “School Life”, the magazine from Melrose, devotes nearly all of its space to literature, as the news is cover¬ ed by “The Imprint , Melrose High’s newspaper. We received and enjoyed both—especially “School Life’s” clever ditty “Ye Gods in 1939”. Ibis exchange column just wouldn ' t be the same without “The Stick , official tattler and recorder of de¬ bates, feuds, and general goings-on at the Slate Teachers ' College at Fitchburg, and “The Stick” probably wouldn’t be said “Stick without its “Ash Tray”, in which prob¬ lems of the moment are discussed with such a dash of whimsy. Andover’s Punchard High School sends a neat magazine, “The Punch-Harder , just filled with excellent essays, which might, however, be balanced with more stories and illustrations to good advantage. “The Reflector from Woburn offers a sheaf of good editorials and a good literary department. We were pleased to see “Boogie’s” (Alice Goodwin to the un¬ initiated) poem, “To the Seniors”, reprinted from our 1939 June issue. “The Red and Gray” has the novel idea of printing quotations which pertain to the material on the page. The frontispiece, “Season’s Greetings”, and the cover were attractive. A new member of our column, “The Academic Observer” from Utica Free Academy, Utica, New York, made a big first impression (with the skater on the cover) before it was even opened. We liked your page of snapshots and your clever gossip column in verse. “The Monson Spirit”, another newcomer, hailing from Monson Academy in Monson, Massachusetts, is marked by the excellent news write-ups, and Professor Integer Vitae’s Dorothy Dix for boys was as funny as it was impractical. Stoneham’s “Authentic” sported a beautiful white football on a blue cover—very stunning—and the sports items were well written. A plumper literary section would help. Something totally different to which we always look forward is “The Cryptian”, which comes from the Grypt School in Gloucestor, England, full of all the tradition and dignity which only the publication of a school four hundred years old can offer. “The Hanover Harpoon” from Hanover, New Hampshire, is making its first appearance in this issue. We enjoyed reading your ski-news particularly, and the Tri-Hi-Y column struck a responsive chord among the members of our would-be Tri-Hi-Y. The 1 teautiful new Spaulding High School in Roch¬ ester, New Hampshire, sends us its “Red and White” with attractive illustrations at the head of each depart¬ ment. Your poetry has improved immensely! Fifty-six 19 40 The Pioneer What should blow in from Nashville, Tennessee, hut our old friend the “Fogg Horn of the Hume Fogg High School. This paper seems to have a gift for snap¬ py editorials that get to the point in a minimum of words. We quote one of them: “What I think—- I ve got an idea Some of the students in this school Resemble a certain species of donkey. They brey perpetually. Our auditorium is no Stockyard or livery stable. The least we can show is courtesy. Our courtesy is not here. It’s terrible. It’s lousy. It stinks. You get the idea; So do others. We don’t like it; Furth ermore, we’re going to Do something about it. We can’t ask for money to Build a stall To accommodate, well—you know what. So let’s act like the swell Students we are.” Barnstable’s “Clipper”, with its extremely attractive block prints, tucked clever jokes and ditties in spare corners; for instance: “A clergyman named Fiddle Refused to accept a degree. Said he, “It ' s bad enough to be fiddle Without being Fiddle D.D. ’ “The School Spirit ' from the girls of the David Hale Fanning Trade School in Worcester makes a regu¬ lar appearance in our mail box just about every month. Its spirited articles are as good as ever and the covers are becoming increasingly attractive. “The W. H. S. Hill Quill from Walpole sends its usual good literature and clever jokes. From Burlington we welcome the “Keyhole”, which lives up to its name with its well-covered news articles and gossip. One issue was dedicated to the football squad. I Did they get free copies?) The “Blue and White”, a newspaper from parts south, Savannah, Georgia, to be exact, offsets its well written news with a story. We enjoyed the column “Girls’ Fashions’ ! Concord’s “Voice seems to include the new ' s of the whole school without resorting to a gossip column— very refreshing. Your French club sounds like lots of fun’. And so—thank you all for your exchanges; they have contributed to one of the largest, most successful exchange columns we’ve had. Until next year, au revoir. Dorothy Babcock MUSIC NOTES Continued from page 30 The poor statues in the library, when looked at Thursday morning after orchestra rehearsals, have a more thoughtful expression than ever, but under the direction of Mr. Paul Sakas, the orchestra is making rapid progress. Its members certainly can “go to town” during assemblies and inflame that old R. H. S. spirit in the hearts of each and every listener. Called “the band” last fall, they were faithful at all the football games—right on hand to play us to victory at the Stone- ham game. Certainly, no finer tribute could be paid to any school than the one that our musical groups pay to R. H. S. Evelyn Comey HOW FOOTBALLS ARE MADE Continued from page 49 go through the joke department of the “Pioneer” where they’re soon in stitches and ready for any fate. We firmly believe that several new-type footballs will find high favor this coming year. There’s the glider type which we ' ve designed to shoot out two wings whenever it is kicked and which could conveniently, and if necessary, soar right out of the stadium. If you’re afraid of intercepted passes, we offer a porcupine foot¬ ball which sprouts quills whenever an opponent touches it. Then we have the concealed grip football. When the runner receives the ball from the center, he simply pulls out what looks like a suitcase handle and carries the pigskin as he would a satchel. It’s practically im¬ possible to fumble this ball! We have placed great hopes in our brand new hanging-cord football—a good type if your forward passer is overstrong. Where the ball is heaved, a cord with a weight on the end is re¬ leased. As the pigskin sails over the receiver’s head he simply grabs the hanging cord, pulls the ball down, gallops to the goal. The future Reading High Team might be interested in our fishline football for punting purposes. When you punt the ball, you merely retain in your hand one end of a strong fishline, the other end being attached to the ball. The opposing safety catches the ball, but you yank it out of his hand and your end falls on it, if lie’s anywhere around. Still another model is the ball for the runner like JoJo Robishaw. When the player exceeds the speed endurance of your fastest player, the ball suddenly turns red, goes into a reverse spin, and dovetails back to the line of scrimmage. We suggest that Coach look up the further abilities of this ball or else hire Jesse Owens next year for end if Ipswich has any more like JoJo. If you wish to obtain any additional information on this matter of bigger and better footballs, mail a half dollar to Coach Holgerson and demand a quarter¬ back—preferably Amback, as he can do your math. David St. Hilaire Fifty-seven The Pioneer 19 40 f If .Innr P ■ - t.tr, MEMORIES I’m sure that when R. H. S. holds no more in store for me And rules and regulations I can easily defy, My mind, not crammed with hoyish tricks, will just be all at sea— That I am bound to miss the place, I do not dare deny. When in my leisure moments I am prone to reminisce, Among my favorite memories I anticipate a few: My geometric proofs which somehow always seemed amiss; Lunch time and those well-filled bowls of stew; The witty Spencer version of the famous Cicero, With Lucullus called the Vanderbilt of the B. C.’s; Miss Devaney’s smiles and nods at quips of so and so While giving “Sherm”, her office hoy, the list of absen¬ tees—ah me! I know that when I’m president, the tests I had in school When matched with tests of life will seem but as a game of pool. James Hawes GEORGE AND LOUIE On the northern shore of Long Island there are many coves and inlets. The westernmost of these in¬ dentations is a shallow bay. Extending inland for per¬ haps two or three miles from the edge of this bay is a meadow, through which once ran a tidal river. On the three sides away from the hay, the meadow is hemmed in by low, rolling hills. This was once a beautiful val¬ ley, but with the expansion of the great metropolis it became New York City’s rubbish heap. Through the years, layer upon layer of ashes and other debris col¬ lected, until in 1935 the whole northern end, an area of nearly a square mile, was buried to a depth of ninety feet. The dust of ashes filled the air, and only when winter’s cold slowed the decomposition of garbage here deposited could one breathe normally in the neighbor¬ hood. One writer called this place “The Valley of Ashes”, which was indeed appropriate. It was not cold that October night in 1935. The thermometer probably did not read less than fifty-five degrees. But a chill west wind, added to a typical Long Island dampness, made it seem like twenty-five degrees. At a certain point where the ashes met the bay, the wind had blown away the characteristic odor of the dump. Instead, it now carried a distinct odor of alcohol. It one had been standing at this point, he would have heard, growing louder and louder, the strains of a song, the words of which went something like this: “Drunk lash night, drunk the nishe before; and I’m gonna get drunk tonishe like I never got drunk before!” At length the high point of the concentration of the C2H50H va¬ por was reached as two gentlemen in slightly disordered evening clothes arrived at the spot. “Look, Louie,” said the first to reach the water’s edge, “here’s the Atlantish Ocean. Louie, ain’t ish beautiful?” “G’wan, George, thash Lake Erie.” “Whether ish Lake Erie or the Atlantish Ocean, ish still wunnerful. Louis, do you realishe that right over thash way, acrosh the Atlantish, liesh Englund?” George pointed in the direction of the Bronx shore, which was invisible because of the thin mist. “Georgsh, you’re jush ignorant,” said Louie, ex¬ haling indignantly. “Anybody knowsh that Meshico ish on the other side of Lake Erie! - - Georgsh, did you hear anything?” Both were silent for a moment. The only sound was that of the wind rustling the few wisps of meadow grass which were hardy enough to withstand the pollution of the hay. “No,” replied George at length, “but if you did, maybe the British are coming acrosh from England.” He turned, raised his hands to his mouth, and shouted in a loud voice, “To armsh, to armsh, the British are coming!” “Shh!’ hissed Louie. Then he said in a hoarse whisper, “I thought I heard a voice call for help.” “G’wan No! Look! It ain’t the British! Theresh shomebody out there in the water. It must be the feller you heard call.” “Yeah, it mush be. Man the life boash! Women and children firsht.” “Louie, wheresh the scosh?” “I dunno. Washoo want ish for?” “We gotta have a shtimulant before we go in thash cold water. We mishe cash pneumonia.” “Thash right, where ish it? 1 gave it to you.” “No, you din’t.” “I take ish back, Shorsh; here it ish,” said Louie, holding up the half empty quart bottle of scotch. He lifted it to his mouth and drained half of its contents Fi fty-eight The Pioneer 19 40 with a gurgling sound. “Wait! cried George. “Gimmee shum. I need shtimulation ash mush ash you do! He unceremoni¬ ously grabbed the bottle and emptied it except for two or three drops. “Thish, he said, “is to revive the poor drowning pershion with! He placed the vessel on the ashes. “Take off your shoesh, Shorsh, show you can shwim better.’’ For several minutes they struggled with their foot gear, finally succeeding in removing the shoes. “Here we go to the reshcue, said George, starting off away from the water, while Louie plunged into it. “Shorsh, Shorsh! Where are you?” “The water mush be froshen, Louie—I ' m walkin on top of ish.” “Shorsh!” “Over thish way, Louie; it’s all ishe.” At this point George tripped on the mortal remains of a Model T Ford. When he regained his feet, he was again headed in the direction of the water. As he reached the edge, he cried, “Hey, look out, Louie. The ishe ends here; we gotta shwim.” So saying, he entered the water with a ponderous splash. “Shorsh! Wash happened? Have you drowned, too?” “Here 1 am, Louie,” said the other, reaching his side. “D’ya sh’pose lie’s shtill alive, Shorsh?” “Mush be! We hurried ash fasht ash we could.” (It had taken them a half hour.) “I wunner what he’sh doin’ there?” “Maybe he wash trying to shwim from England and the British are coming. To armsh! To armsh!” “I’ll bet he’sh a Meshican. Are we shtill at war with Meshico?” Their splashing had brought them nearly to their objective. “Here we are, Louie.” “Yeash. Theresh the fellow, and he’sh not moving - - - Shorsh - - - D’ya shposhe he’s - - - ?” “IN aw, jush unconshush. Come on, we gotta work fash. You take hish head, ‘n’ I’ll take hish feet.” “OH! SHORSH!” “ ’Shmatter?” “He ain’t gottany head!” “LOUIE! He ain’t got any legsh either.” “We mush find the resh of him. I wonder what he did with it.” “Wait! We’ll ashk him. Maybe he knowsh where he ish. George thumped on the victim’s chest. “Hey, wake up! Where ' sh the rest of you? Washa do with your head?” “He won’t talk.” “Lesh try and find the resh of him.” I he two floundered off in opposite directions. When al length they splashed back to the victim, Louie said. “Find anything, Shorsh?” “No, joo?” “No. Wa’shall we do now?” “Guesh we’ll have to he shatishfied with reshcuing what we’ve got, replied George. “Yeah, we can hunt for the resh in the morning.” “Lesh go, Louie; heave ho, heave ho. After a few minutes Louie shouted, “Land ho. We’re aground, skipper. Haul him onto the shore.” “Louie, you were a life shaver one summer. Give him artifishal reshperashun. Louie seated himself astride the still form and press¬ ed down with his hands on the back. A great fountain of water arose. “Ish workin’, Louie. The watarsh corn¬ in’ out of him!” “Out-goesh-sha-bad-air. I n-comesh-sha-good.” “Here, make him drink thish,” said George, produc¬ ing the three drops of scotch. “It’ll do him good.” “Where ? Hish mouth wash in hish head and hish head’sh gone. “Gimme it, Louie; I ll show you.” He poured the few drops onto the stump of the neck. “There, thash ought to do ish.” “Oush-goesh-sha-bad-air. I n-comesh-sha-good.” “Mornin’sh coinin’, Louie.” “Oush-goesh-sha-bad air. In-comes-sha-good. Oush- goesh-sha-bad-air—I n-comes-—” Gradually the great heaps of ashes, tin cans, wreck¬ ed automobiles, old gas stoves, oil drums, broken bot¬ tles, and other articles took form. At seven o’clock. Officer Patrick O’Brien was pounding his beat around the shore line of the bay. He came upon two gentlemen who were snoring loudly. With each outgoing breath a cloud of alcoholic vapor arose. The bluecoat ungently rolled one over with his foot. “Come aun naw, me laddies, wake up. Come aun, wake up and hear the birdies sing.” Louie was the first to awaken. He had slept, but not long enough to wear off the effect of all the alcohol inside of him. He quickly resumed his artificial respira¬ tion. “Oush-goesh-sha-bad-air. I n-comesh-sha-good Oh, offisher, where did you come from? Shorsh! Here’sh a pleesh offisher.—Look at that. He’sh gone to shleep! Shorsh, Shorsh! wake up.” “Washmatter ?” “Wake up, Shorsh, a pleeshman’sh here. Shame on you going to sleep at a time like thish!” “Pleeshman? Oh! Wunnerful—call oush the er- meshensy shquad. Give him shum oshigen.” “Yeah. Gesh the coash guard—the whole “You Esh Navy”. Find thish mansh head’ll legsh. He can’t live without hish head!” “Come aun naw, me hearties, it’s only an auld dress¬ maker’s dummy. Let’s get goin’. Leave the dummy here. We’ll go to a nice bar, where we can get aull nice and cooled auf.” “Shorsh, did you hear that—dummy! Do you mean shay we washted our talentsh on a dummy! Oh, Shorsh. “OH, Louie, a dummy. Ishn’t ish dishgushtine? Lesh not cry over shpilt dummiesh. Lesh go to the bar w ith the pleeshman.” Sixty 19 40 The Pioneer Officer O’Brien sat between the two gentlemen in the hack of his blue-green limousine. This vehicle had a nice little wire grill door in the rear end. which had a cute little door step. On either side were comfortable pine benches. Louie turned and said “Shorsh, 1 just been thinking bout sheography. Ish Meshico really on the other shide of Lake Erie—or ish Shapan? Gregg C. Brewer A GUIDING STAR Last night I saw a candle in the sky— It was so small it hardly could be seen. And yet its tiny twinkle there on high Made all the heavens peaceful and serene. It made the darkness round me seem obscure, The gloom of night was shut out by its ray. It filled me with a feeling safe and sure. I knew that it was lighting up my way. I wondered if perhaps an angel bright Had put it in the window of God’s home To light a wand’rer’s way throughout the night To guide him on wherever he might roam. I knew though it be vanquished, come the dawn The guidance of its light would ne’er be gone. Evelyn Comey SONG SNATCHES “The Little Man Who Wasn’t There “Sophisticated Lady’’ “Tuxedo Junction” “I Got Rhythm” “Who’s Sorry Now?” “N’ya, N’ya, N’ya” George Bridges Betty Dalton David St. Hilaire Bette Kimball Seniors “The Foxy Five “I Thought About You” Homework over the weekend “The Wind and the Rain in Your Hair” Clark’s Ford “Watching the Clock” Eighth Period “Comes Love Pestana and Merritt “Faithful Forever” “Charley” “I Didn’t Know What Time It Was” Office Refrain “Oh, Johnny!” John Quinlan “All in Favor Say ‘Aye’ ” Senior Class Meetings “A Man and His Dream” R. Lawler, J. Davis “Don’t Worry ’Bout Me, I ' ll Get Along ” Elisabeth White “A Table in a Corner’ “Gotta Get Some Shut Eye” “So Far So Good” “The Man That Comes Around ” “Chatterbox” “Drummer Man” “Five Foot Two With Eyes of Blue’ “Turn on the Old Music Box “What’s the Matter With Me?” “It ' s a Wonderful World” Torre’s at 2:30 “Stan” Davis Sophomores Mr. Sussmann Horace Jones ‘Blackie” Leman Jeanette Davies Lunch Period Band Practice June 5 THE TEDDY BEAR The white and furry hunch upon my bed, With stuffing leaking through its tattered paws And glassy eyes that stared from lifeless head— From whose worn patches poked a few loose straws, To most was but a wooly hunch of fur, A lifeless toy as bare of soul and sense As all the straws that stuffed its body were. It gave no hint, that stolid countenance, What life this toy had lived, what secrets known, What kisses had been lavished on its head, What childish arms had clasped it for their own; Yet still it perched upon that quilted spread, Still loved, still clasped, though shabby now with wear, The king of toys, a tattered teddy hear. Dorothy Babcock LAMENT It really is a pity, To think how long I sittee, Making words to fittee, Going nitty witty In dashing off a ditty! Gregg Brewer SONNET TO A SOPHOMORE Oh, haste thee, gentle sophomore! Anon— The bell in clarion tones a warning cries And tells of tardiness. It shouts, “Be gone!” To each late pupil ling’ring here. It tries To make him go to class—to leave his date In time, that Mr. Sussmann need not have Another come into the “Lair of Fate” And wait for sentence to he passed, then leave With rueful countenance and go to spend The afternoon in punishment. In short, Unless you wish to take this chance, my friend, You’d better get to classes as you ought. Oh, haste thee, gentle child. (’Twere best you ran.) You’re late there, young’un; swiftly, quickly, scram! John Hilchey ROOM TEN First to physics, thence to math, Then to French class gone I hath; Now in French class here sit I Gazing at the clouded sky. Since Hugo’s tales are very deep I’d listen not, but sit and sleep— Yet when at length June came round I with an F would be found. And thus since I hope to pass. I’ll hear what’s said in French III class! Gregg C. Brewer Sixty-one The Pioneer 19 40 WAS EVER THUS! Bell rings— Period two. Chorus sings— What to do? Home room— Study hard: Comes soon Report card. Must write English theme; Naught in sight Does seem. O pen pen— No ink; Ask neighbor I think. Hand sore, Head aches; Write more— Pen breaks. Theme done. Bell rings; Battle won— Heart sings. Hand in— Teacher beams; Much surprised It seems. Je suis fou! Brains weak: Theme due Next week! Gregg Brewer THE WISH The melody came wafting through the trees As I was lonely passing by the wood; And as I listened wishing that I could With my weak voice the weary world thus please, A nearby tree disturbed by playful breeze Discolored a drab and ugly bird. 1 should Have passed without a thought, and yet I stood To hear the songs which were sweet symphonies. Although he could not know 1 liked the tune, I found it gayly echoed in my heart. It helped to cheer me on my way and soon I felt in my small way Pd do my part, And I perchance unwitting bring a boon; Like him I might another’s gladness start. Kathryn Conron CINEMA QUIPS “Another Thin Man Robert Van Laetham “Three Smart Girls Alma, Evelyn, Vivian “The Jones Family” Robert, Horace, William “Beau Geste . . Tom Connell “Gone With the Wind” Warren Hill “I Take This Woman” Coach Holgerson igil in the Night Before Finals “The Road Back” . P. G.’s “The Shop Around the Corner Woolworth’s “Two Bright Boys” Faculty Honors “Fast and Furious “The Foxy Five “When Tomorrow Comes Library Wall “Of Mice and Men” Hygiene Textbook “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Clark and Frankie “Night of Nights” . June 5 OUR SEVEN WONDERS Can you imagine: “The Melody Gems” with a song? Jean Sargent without a thing to do? Mr. Sussman without an appropriate anecdote? “Red Davis with straight hair? Mr. Dixon without his ruler? The North Reading students without a bus? R. H. S. without Mrs. Tilton? THE GRAND HUNT One autumn morn I woke to see The rime of frost o’er all the lea; And heard the bay of hounds as thru The distant fields their quarry flew; A hasty cup of coffee hot, Then quick my trusty gun l got, And sallied forth to join the chase Whose prospects made the blood to race; A day afield beyond compare, With sparkling mid-October air, Through forest dell and shaded glen. The chase unfolds, then hack again; May Nimrod’s ghost command you try This noble sport before you die. Wallace Haselton THE SILVERY STREAM Slowl) now, the summer is ending; The stillness of fall is all around. A silvery stream is quietly wending Its tireless way—onward bound. It passes a field, now golden with wheat, And then through a woodland so dark; It winds through a meadow, where wild birds drink, And echoes the song of a lark. You know, little stream, you’ie a lot like life, Winding and wavering along, First through a forest of hazard and fear. And then through a meadow of song. Betty Gullam Compliments of M. F. CHARLES SONS DEALER IN SCHOOL SUPPLIES 610 Main Street ?0rtBER CHARLES I,. THORNDIKE Main St., Corner Woburn St. Family Shoe Store MEN’S FURNISHINGS LAMSON HUBBARD HATS ENNA JETTICK SHOES READ WHITE MEN ' S anil WOMEN ' S FORMAL CLOTHES RENTER if ' ll READ WHITE 7 FOR ALL OCCASIONS QUALITY ALWAYS 0 111 SUMMER STREET BOSTON, MASS. W00LW0RTH BLOG., PROVIDENCE, R. I. EDGERLEY BESSOM FUNERAL SERVICE Frank Lee Edgerley, Proprietor Funeral Home, 743 Main St., Reading Telephone Reading 0105 Compliments of ARTHUR GRAY’S GARAGE 34 Salem Street Tel. Reading 0010 SEE OUR NEW DEVELOPMENT ON HIGH STREET NEW HOMES REAL ESTATE ROYAL C. JAQUES BUILDER AM) CONTRACTOR 93 Grand Street Tel. Reading 1453 Reading, Mass. NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY College of Liberal Arts Offers a broad program of college subjects serving as a foundation for the under¬ standing of modern culture, social relations, and technical achievement. The purpose of this program is to give the student a liberal and cultural education and a vocational competence which fits him to enter some specific type of useful employment. College of Business Administration Offers a college program with broad and thorough training in the principles of business with specialization in Accounting, Journalism, Banking and Finance, Public Administration, Industrial Administration or Marketing and Advertising. Instruction is through lectures, solution of business problems, class discussions, motion pictures and talks by business men. College of Engineering Provides complete college programs in Engineering with professional courses in the fields of Civil, Mechanical (with Diesel, Aeronautical and Air Conditioning options). Electrical, Chemical, Industrial Engineering, and Engineering Administration. General engineering courses are pursued during the freshman year; thus the student need not make a final decision as to the branch of engineering in which he wishes to specialize until the beginning of the sophomore year. Co-operative Plan The Co-operative Plan, which is available to upperclassmen in all courses, provides for a combination of practical industrial experience with classroom instruction. Under this plan the student is able to earn a portion of his school expenses as well as to make business contacts which prove valuable in later years. Degrees Awarded Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Science Pre-legal Programs Available FOR CATALOG—MAIL THIS COUPON AT ONCE Northeastern University Director of Admissions Boston, Massachusetts Please send me a catalog of the □ College of Liberal Arts □ Pre-Legal Program O College of Business Administration □ College of Engineering Name . Address H-34 Compliments of L. G. M. C. HAWES FLORISTS Compliments of THE KINGSTON INN Richard Crooker, Manager, Class of 1936 18 Kingston Street Boston LOOKING FOR A DIGNIFIED VOCATION? STUDY BEAUTY CUUTURE IN ITS MOST ADVANCED FORM interesting We prepare young men and women for a life of refinement . work . . . security and prosperity. COURSES are complete and systematized, with sound proven principles correctly applied. Our INSTRUCTORS have been care¬ fully prepared to a required standard, and each one is a GRADUATE of the ACADEMY itself. This feature insures capable presentation of all subjects which are essential in any professional training center. CLASSROOMS are spacious and inod- ernly equipped ... an entire building is devoted for this purpose. The number of high-class positions filled by our FREE PLACEMENT BUREAU has increased yearly for more than a decade, assuring undeniable success to our graduates. Moderate Tuition Convenient Payment Terms Day and Evening Classes Further information regarding your own possibilities in this vocation gladly furninshed. Write for free booklet—or visit our Academy without obligation. WILFRED ACADEMY 492 Boylston Street OF HAIR AND BEAUTY CULTURE Boston, Mass. KENmore 0880 NEVER TOO EARLY... OFTEN TOO LATE Lots of young folks starting the first job at a modest salary say to them¬ selves, “As soon as I get a raise, I’ll start to save something”. Raises come along. So do new wants, new desires. That savings account never does get opened. Suddenly the working days are over . . . with no “nest egg” laid aside for a comfortable old age. Regardless of how lit¬ tle you earn, you can save something. Get the habit. Start N O W. Mechanics Savings Bank 643 Main Street, Reading, Mass. SAVING BECOMES AN EASY HABIT when you save the systematic way through our saving shares. Just a little each month and soon you have a good-sized sum of money in the bank — for emergencies, or for worth-while spending, or for a growing independence fund. Begin now in the May series—save $1 to $40 monthly to have $200 to $8,000 later. Reading Co-operative Bank 643 Main Street, Reading, Mass. Best Wishes to the Graduates RANDALL’S CRULLER SHOP Now on Haven Street Economy Grocery Store 8 Haven Street H. L. Sherman Tel. Reading 0929 L. Devaney Free Delivery Hot Coffee Served Congratulations to 1940 Graduates ARE YOU ATTRACTIVE? FOR THAT NEAT AND WELL GROOMED APPEARANCE USE Kernivood ' s Personalized Service KERNWOOD CLEANERS Malden 2281 r Placement Service Provided Free to all Graduates m w « v � « l “ m if. iilw JttJiLW jfe.. Tr gliint nrtrB ttl Previous Commercial Training Not Re¬ quired for Entrance Where Success Stories of Tomorrow Begin to Take Form For 61 years, Burdett College has been offering specialized business training to the young people of New England. In its five-story, con¬ venient building in downtown Boston, the success stories of tomorrow begin to take form. Here young men and women acquire solid foun¬ dations in business fundamentals, in skill subjects, and cultural- social studies. They learn to think for themselves, and to think straight. Carry hope into achievement by deciding now to learn more about Burdett College ... its experienced faculty ... its enviable reputation among employers. Burdett College Fall Term Begins September 3, 1940 Send for Day or Evening Catalogue 156 Stuart Street, Boston, Mass. HANcock 6300 l.1. tAm A ifW j t TORRE’S Compliments of the Reading Square Fairlawn Animal Hospital ] MAKING QUALITY CANDY AND ICE CREAM FOR 16 Lowell Street, Wakefield j 25 YEARS ► Telephone Crystal 0045 4 1 Congratulations 1940 Graduates Greetings to the Class of 4 from the 19 4 0 4 Reading, Re tauSiant ► AUTO SUPPLY STORE f i “Where Dining is a Fine Art.” , 625 MAIN STREET READING 0346 619 MAIN STREET READING SQUARE , Extending Heartiest Congratulations 4 4 ’ � the Class of 1940 Marion’s Beauty Salon j ; 9deal BEAUTY SHOP Pleasant Street 4 ■ 623 MAIN STREET READING 1669 Tel. 0116 ' , Evening Appointments 4 4 4 ► , Compliments of Compliments of . 4 EUGENE’S SHOE SHOP 4 Reading Square Market 4 � • Main Street � HOME OF QUALITY FOODS 4 Tel. Reading 0890 Free Delivery i 4 Reasonable Prices Good Work Prompt Attention ARCHIE LEVINE CUSTOM TAILOR Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Suits and Overcoats Made to Order. Cleaning, Pressing, Dyeing and Remodeling. Furs remodeled in the latest styles. Tel. Reading 0073-M 175 Haven Street Reading, Mass. 1 Compliments of THE READING THEATRE G. H. ATKINSON CO. FINEST OF MEATS CHOICE FAMILY GROCERIES BIRDSEYE FROSTED FOODS Prentiss Parker Inc. W. H. Wightman Co. INSURANCE Reading Office Masonic Block Tie. Rea. 0249 Boston Office 40 Broad St. Tel. Hub. 7880 ADAMS COMPANY LADIES AND CHILDREN’S FURNISHINGS Haven Street Tel. Rea. 1360 W Compliments of FRED’S BEAUTY SALON 48 Haven Street Tel. Reading 1599 SAL’S BEAUTY SALON PERMANENTS OUR SPECIALTY 70 Haven Street Reading, Mass. Telephone Rea. 0456 CO-OPERATION IS THE LIFE OF TRADE! Buy where the consumer Owns the Business Controls the Quality Gets the Profits Now? Why Not Ask Us? Reading CO-OP Society 233 Haven Street 1 AGAIN The First National Bank of Reading SALUTES R. H. S. Its President (Class of 1900) and all officers and employees wish success and prosperity to the members of the Class of 1940 nuAce mounting Mt VI J m. CM CORNERS -TRANSPARENT 4 JUNIOR These fam¬ ous corners will handle every thing from a pos¬ tage stamp to a large map, draw¬ ing, or pho¬ tograph. Popular for mounting snapshots on cards or in albums. Four styles, as shown above. In black, white, gray, green, red, sepia, ivory, gold, and silver. Transparent style is of crystal-clear cellulose. NuAce PHOTO HINGES allow prints to be mounted one above the other where album space must be saved. Handy for newspaper clippings or postcards. Ready folded. Just moisten and use. All styles retail 10c package. (15c in Canada). Packed in effective display containers. Ask for sample packages and trade discounts. ACE ART CO. EVERYDAY GREETING CARDS GIFTS APPROPRIATE FOR ALL PURPOSES China, Glass, Pottery and Brass Linens, Leather Goods and Novelties Toys, Dolls and Games H. B. McARDLE Printing and Office Supplies Next to Reading Theatre 12 Gould St. Reading, Mass. 565 Main Street Tels. 1647 - 1648 — — ■� 1 j SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY , All Departments Co-educational , 30 Scholarships available in the Colleges to 1940 High School Graduates Qualification by Competitive Examinations in English or History Cultural and Pre-Professional COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS—day, evening and part-time courses leading to A. B. ’ degree—120 semester hours. Pre-professional courses (60 s. h.) for Law, Journa- . lism and Business Administration. Entrance requirement: 15 acceptable college entrance units. Advanced standing for acceptable college credits. Professional LAW SCHOOL—4-year day or evening course. Prepares for LL.B. degree, Mass. Bar ’ examination and law practice. Entrance requirement: 60 s. h. of college credits, , obtainable in the Pre-Legal Course of the College of Liberal Arts. COLLEGE OF JOURNALISM—day or evening course, B. S. in J. degree. Includes ’ 60 s. h. of Liberal Arts and instruction in all phases of Journalism. , COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION—day or evening course, B. S. in B. A. degree. Includes 60 s. h. of Liberal Arts and specialized instruction in account- ’ ing, advertising, business management. , GRADUATE SCHOOL OF LAW—2-year evening course, LL.M. degree. Combined Faculties Represent Cultural and Professional Instruction ' of High Quality and Recognized Achievement , Day and Evening Duplicate Sessions Special Summer School Courses ’ Moderate Tuition Placement Service , Convenient Location Modern, Fire-proof Building Call, write or phone CAPitol 0555 for catalogs and information about scholarships SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY REGISTRAR Derne Street on Beacon Hill Boston, Mass. MALDEN COMMERCIAL ’ SCHOOL Founded 1903 t We invite intelligent comparison A co-edueational business college offering courses for beginners and advanced SHORTHAND TYPEWRITING ACCOUNTING OFFICE MACHINES CLERICAL CIVIL SERVICE SPECIAL COURSES SECRETARIAL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Day School - Evening School - Summer School Fall Term begins September 3, 1940 The Willis Pharmacy. Inc. J Established in 1855 SERVICE AND QUALITY MERCHANDISE Summer School begins June 24 and July 1 ► Free Guidance and Placement Service to our graduates 6 Pleasant Street Malden 0256 ,Send for Day, Evening, or Summer School Cutfdog V. The Graduates Of Today Will Be The fetud i and Qnoanui Of Tomorrow Municipal Light Department Reading, Massachusetts Get Ready for a Modern Home And Include in the Plans an Electric Range - Refrigerator Water Heater - Washing Machine Vacu um ci eaner ' HARRY UPSON CAMP 28 Highland Street Reading Telephone 0835 DODGE PLYMOUTH SALES AND SERVICE Carleton-Walsh Motors. Inc. 508 Main Street Reading Tel. Reading 0894 Whv Not The Best? JENNEY SOLVENIZED GASOLINE JENNEY AERO GASOLINE Guaranteed to be the best motor fuel value on the market. We are equipped for all the service you may require. Emerson’s Community Service Station Lincoln and Prescott Sts. (Opposite Reading Depot) Tel. Reading 0196 Compliments of BELL’S BARBER SHOP A MODERN SHOP IN A MODERN TOWN Austin’s Block Reading Square BROWN’S GARAGE ALL KINDS OF SERVICE 24-HOUR SERVICE 16 Woburn St. Tel. 0231 Compliments of DANFORTH’S PHARMACY Corner Pleasant and Harnden Streets Reading, Mass. LANE’S BUS SERVICE 30-40 Passenger Busses for Hire Franklin Street Garage Albert F. Lane, Prop. PONTIAC AUTHORIZED SALES AND SERVICE Tel. 0994 41 Franklin St. Stoneham, Mass. “We Make Good Things To £ 01 ” Make-Up Work in All High School Subjects GRATTAN BAKING CO. SUMMER PREPARATORY SCHOOL FANCY BAKERS JULY 1 TO AUGUST 16 ICE CREAM AND CATERING Individual Instruction in Difficult Subjects 57 Albion Street Wakefield, Mass. ' Morning Classes Telephone Crystal 1023 , Experienced High School Teachers j COEDUCATIONAL $25 a subject—Send for circular. Compliments of THE FISHER SCHOOL 374 Broadway Winter Hill A FRIEND : SOMerset 1800 To the Class of 1940 whose yearbook we have been privileged to produce The Reading Chronicle extends heartiest congratulations and best wishes for the future of each member STROUD SECRETARIAL SCHOOL 603 Main Street, Reading Over the Mary Ann Shop Day Division Intensive secretarial training for young women (high school graduates)— Small classes — Rapid, individual advancement—LOW TUITION payable monthly—Placement opportunities — Day classes start September 3. Evening Division Classes in shorthand and typewriting for beginners — Classes in rapid dicta¬ tion and transcription for advanced students — Two-hour sessions Mondays and Thursday — LOW TUITION payable monthly — Placement oppor¬ tunities — Evening classes begin October 7. For complete information, call Reading 1455 Director: Barbara L. Frost, B. S. Simmons College 1 Lawrence Road, Reading ★ ★ ★ GRADUATION ★ ★ ★ ★ ISSUE 1941 -‘LEX. DlSSf _ THE EICNEEE Q n dLi tian Nu+nhesi READING HIGH SCGCCL READING, MASSACHUSETTS Editor-in-Chief Carolyn Campbell ’41 Write-ups Staff, Class of 1941 Donald Taylor } Carolyn Lumsden Chairmen Ruth Hicks Donald Hitchock Virginia Davis Leslie Scott Edith Kimball Donald Tuttle Barbara Bryant Albert Barmby Elsie Mason Gordon Watkins Anna Arsenault Howard Lander Frances Madden Thomas Jacob Stella Pollitz Alfred Doughty Barbara Bird William Dacey Alexander Dissel Literary Editor Barbara Davis ’42 News Editors Jean Dow ’41 Kenne. ii Anderson ’41 Business Staff Lucille Conn am ’42, Manager Donald Pease ’43, Advertising Betty Parks ’41, Circulation Elinor Abbott ’42 Marjorie Webster ’42 Sherman Stone ’43 Athletic Editors Glenn Davis ’41 Claire Johnson ’42 Exchange Editor Barbara Blaikie ’41 Art Editor Lois Ives ’41 Photographic Editor Lillian Davies ’41 Official Typist Evelyn Shaw ’41 Staff Secretary Elizabeth Burpee ’42 Eacuity Advisers Miss Mary Devaney — Literary Miss Svea Kling — Typing Mr. Luke Halpin — Business Mr. Reginald Kibbee — Art LUKE HALPIN We affectionately dedicate this issue of the “Pioneer ” to Mr. Halpin, in appreciation of his untiring efforts and constant friendship for the “ Pioneer ”, and for the Class of 1941 i 1 FRANK D. TANNER DR. CHARLES R. WAKELING II was with real regret that the pupils of Reading High School learned that Mr. Frank D. Tanner and Dr. Charles R. Wakeling are no longer to he associated with the Reading School Board. Mr. Tanner has served in the interests of the young people of our town for ten years, during four of which he was chairman of the board and a welcome speaker at school functions. Mr. Tanner’s great hobby is athletics, and he has had much to do with developing a sound athletic policy at Reading High School. He feels that the educational value of athletics is more important than the mere victories involved in any contest. Dr. Wakeling has given increas¬ ingly of his energy and skill to keep our athletic teams in the best possible physical condition. He has given eight years of service to the School Board and his popularity with the student body is proof that we appreci¬ ate his efforts. It will he hard to find two men who will give as much to the schools of Reading, and at the same time, appeal to faculty and students alike. Carolyn Campbell, Editor AMERICAN YOUTH STILL DREAMS Come, weary classmates of 1941, lay down your pencils and your books. For twelve years we have worked side by side, and now the day of graduation is at hand. A little sleep will do you good before you take that step. The faculty won’t mind; in fact, perhaps they’d like to slip away and have a little snooze them¬ selves. That’s it, relax, and with folded hands and chins upon our chests, let’s drift away to dreams of things that are to come. Ah, here we are, all present, everyone, upon life’s broad high road. The way is wide and very long; it stretches away so far that we cannot see the end. Above the road, the sky is bright and ery blue; gay flowers and birds abound among the fair green fields. The World is there, still eager to go whirling on, despite his mil¬ lions of years. He turns a smiling face toward us and asks for workers. We question him and ask him how we shall be sure of happiness and the fulfillment of our ideals. He looks at us and points straight ahead, where a bright light commands our gaze, and there we see a pedestal where clearly shine the words “Success” and “Happiness”. Above Success some see the figure of Fame, some visualize a pot of gold, some want a fireside and family life, a few seek adventure, thrills, and battles, some see themselves in positions of service to others, an occasional one wants seclusion to work out some weighty problem —hut all see Happiness. Each one must take a different road to reach his visions. Some will work in the mark¬ ets of the cities of the World as clerks, merchants, buy¬ ers, sellers, where life is full and bargains made in many languages. These makers of wealth will need tax collectors, law makers and judges, and some among us will surely qualify. There are others of us who will be nurses, visitors among the poor, and those who heal the sick in spirit. Some will teach the young, and there are those who are fitted for this very task. As we walk along this road of life, the World calls upon us for more scientists and laborers, both skilled and unskilled. Be¬ cause the World has never been able to rid himself of wars, the young men of our class must heed his call to military service and give at least a year of their lives to this pursuit, before they reach the age of thirty-five. We would not want the World to he without music, poetry, pictures, books, philosophy, and news, so there will be some among us who will furnish all of these. Others will love the drama and the cinema, and furnish him with them. These may reach that hall called Fame. We all must be nourished, so others must look to that. There may he more, a dozen more, bright paths to fol¬ low—the World will have some new ones before our dream is old, but everyone here is happy with our friend, the World, in dreaming of filling in his niche. We join our hands and rally round to celebrate, the light of success still shining in our faces, when wait! what’s that? Oh, yes, the closing bell. Come, 1941. awake, arise, go forth—this need not he a dream; for we are young and strong and free. Carolyn Campbell ’41 SEN1CEX- Glenn Davis “Spike” can justly be proud of bis record of being president of Hi-Y and the Class of ’41 and Student Council, as well as an active member of the De¬ bating Club, Service Squad and the Pioneer Staff. As if that weren’t enough to keep him busy, as a man of sports “Spike” made a name for him- Lillian Davies Don’t tell anyone, but our favorite blonde secretary wants to get married! Yes, that’s “Lil”, who so ably played “Sayre” in “Through the Night” and was end girl on our beauteous cheer¬ leading squad. Tri-Hi and Junior Wo¬ man’s Club have had her as an active member, and in her spare moments, she indulges in most sports: tennis, danc¬ ing, swimming, and getting her man! (P. S. She hates boys who need hair¬ cuts.) You may think these things keep her busy, but she’s still fond of her duties as class secretary and pho¬ tographic editor of “Pioneer’’. The Senior Class’s little ray of sunshine is going to work this summer, and then off to college. Have a good time, “Lil”! Robert Tucker “Bob” is the vice-president of our class, and a member in excellent stand¬ ing of Hi-Y and Debating Club. He likes history, and, even more than that, dancing—but the things that really give him the “jitters” are crooked seams in silk stocking. (Tch-) Yes, SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS self in football and basketball. His sta¬ tion wagon, appropriately nicknamed “You Can’t Avoid the Draft”, is a fam¬ iliar sight on the highways of Read¬ ing. Our class president plans to work this summer prior to entering Tabor Academy, where he will begin to study for a career as Unted States Senator, and so be able to take that long-desired trip to Washington, D. C. Robert Taylor “Bob” is our class treasurer, and lie’s also a member of Student Council, the Senior Executive Board, the Service Squad, Hi-Y, and De Molay. Among his subjects, “Tub’’ confesses a partial¬ ity for bookkeeping and plans to en¬ ter Boston University this fall, where in all probability they will spot him as the ideal man for a position as treas¬ urer, too! His favorite sport is swim¬ ming, and this summer he plans both to work and swim plenty. Any time you want “Bob”, you can find him either at Dick Knudson’s or at the cor¬ ner store. “Tuck” is quite a favorite with the la¬ dies, and his sage formula for success is “Keep away from all golddiggers”. He is one of those lucky people who can be specific at this tender age about his jilans for the future—a job in the Lipton’s Tea Company in their South American office See you in your trav¬ els, “Tuck”. Six 19 4 1 Orlando Ames “Amesy” is the owner of a Packard— vintage: 1932—which slows it down con¬ siderably and should help you to identi¬ fy it. He has been a faithful attend¬ ant at all sessions, practice and parade, of our R. H. S. Band. Many and var¬ ied are his other interests: ice skat¬ ing, roller skating, skiing, riding and tinkering with any automobile engine rating top place on his list. To whom it may concern: “Amesy” does not like women in ankle socks. His day of days he lists as June 7, but he may be a P. G. even at that. Kenneth Anderson “Ken’’ Anderson is a happy mixture of student and clown. His scholastic achievements have won him a place in the hearts of his teachers, and his side remarks have earned him a reserved section in the hearts of his fellow pu¬ pils. He is a member of Hi-Y and of the Service Squad, in both of which he has been a willing worker. He was a ' .so one of the foundcfs of the Debat¬ ing Club this year, and his wit and way with words made his selection as one cf the Class Prophecy authors in¬ evitable. In future years you might put in a telephone call for Dr. Kenneth Anderson, M. D., for he is going to take a pre-medical course at Tufts next year. Dorothy Arnett We’ll not forget “Dot”. She’s been too active a participant in athletics, especially basketball and tennis, for that. She’s definitely a pep, vim, and vigor girl, especially when she is work¬ ing in the office. “Dot’s” ambition is to be the owner of a recreational cen¬ ter. She also has her heart set on one of “Uncle Sam’s” uniforms. (We know, “Dot!” Camp Edwards is quite a distance, isn’t it?) Her pet peeve is that necessary evil—detention; her few-and-far-between sessions therein must have made an indelible impres¬ sion Don’t have that recreational cen¬ ter too far away, “Dot’’. Anna Arsenault Anna is frequently to be seen pedal¬ ling around town, for bicycling is her hobby. When not so occupied, she’s probably collecting snap shots, crochet¬ ing, or playing ping-pong. Her hang¬ out, she says, is on the front porch. (She doesn’t say whose.) As a student in the Secretarial Course she hopes to get a job and live happily ever after. After watching her fortune telling at the “Country Fair” we’d say she can build up a lucrative side line anytime she wants to invest in a bandanna and a crystal ball. Eileen Arsenault When we say dancing is “Deenie’s” hobby, we’re putting it mildly, because even her formula for success has some¬ thing to do with the need for dancing and plenty of it. She likes the music— or could it be the partners—in Wake¬ field. (Confidential ' y, we do know why.) She has enjoyed basketball more than any other attraction at dear old R. H. S. She’d like to get a job as a waitress, although she is studying the secretarial course, just in case. She says her ideal is one “Johnny”. He may have something to do with her day of days—March 18, 1940. We would like to know the whys and wherefores, “Deenie”. Stella Arsenault Stella, sometimes known as “Pea¬ nuts” or “Shorty” (either suit her to a “t”), is one of our most enthusiastic swing fans. Her hangout seems to be “here, there, and nowhere,’’ and you’re liable to see her at any of those places anytime. “Shorty’s” favorite sports are skiing, skating and sailing, and if what we hear is true, she certainly goes in for them in a big way. She has been one of our faithful secretarial students and is looking forward to work after graduation. “Shorty’s” formula for success, appropriately enough, is, “Be happy, and keep a smile on your face.” Grace Bailey Framingham Teachers’ College is re¬ ceiving this demure Miss, known to her pals as “Gracie”. Grace wants to own her own restaurant, but we don’t know how she’ll find time, with photography, reading, cooking, bike riding, and ana¬ lyzing handwriting occupying much of her time.. Grace is another child who has haunted the famed art room on our third floor. Bring her some flowers and take her to the movies if you want to please her especially. “Gracie” has no use for “people who yell all the time”, so watch out! James Bain “Jim” was one of the great first team eleven on Reading’s football team, and also played on the basketball quin¬ tet as guard. The time when you really appreciate the lad’s footwork, however, is on a dance flotor—any dance floor, anytime, is all right with “Jim — and lie’s not exactly a waltz fiend. His ambition is to go to M. I. T. and study to be a noted chemist. This summer “Jimmie” is going to work on a farm during the day and invest most of his salary at the dance halls by night. Remember to get a little sleep, “Jim”! Seven SENICK Gene Baker Wherever she is, Gene seems to en¬ joy herself. During her sojourn at Fi¬ ll. S. she was thoroughly entertained by atul interested in the football games, the Senior Carnival, basketball games, dances, and the Senior Play. As a member of the ticket committee she helped the success of “Through the Night”, and she plays as well as watch¬ es basketball. Gene, in spite of having to learn formulas and reaction equa¬ tions, likes chemistry. The real way to win her approval is to spell her first name correctly. There would’nt be a crisis if anyone didn’t however, for Gene’s nature is on the sunny side. Albert Barmby Here’s this or any other season’s electrical genius—“Blimp”, who so ably handled the lighting for the Senior Play and placed seventh on the Hon¬ or Role. We understand he has a very fine model railroad set and spends most of his spare time as engineer, fireman, and what have you. “Fizzlepuss” has found time to belong to the Debating Club and has served the Service Squad faithfully. He holds down four jobs just at present, but he managed to to write half of the Class History and to serve Pioneer on its Write-ups Stafif. “Al” would like to take a trip into the Brayham Jungles, but next year he will confine most of his travelling to the corridors and campus of Maine Univer¬ sity. , Robert Barrett We shall always remember tall, lanky, quiet, and above all deliberate “Bob” as the splendid electrician of the Sen¬ ior Play. He also is a member of the Orchestra, where he pounds his drum. “Bob’s” ambition is to travel in the United States and—Ireland! His pet peeve is loud-mouthed people, especial¬ ly girls, who “are always talking”, and his favorite sport is baseball, although he is active in most every sport. He lias been holding up his end of the College Course and majoring in his favorite subject—math. Marjorie Batchelder Here’s a happy combination of wit and merriment! “Marty’’ spends her spare time playin g tennis, listening 10 the 9:20 Club and collecting records. In case you’re interested, she’s a grand cook. Her ideal is anybody who can think faster than she can. That’s a tough assignment, “Marty”. Oh, yes, she lias her serious moments, as can be seen by two earnest ambitions: to ride a hand car, and to do one good thing and know when she’s done it. Maynard Batchelder This quiet boy with the wavy, blond hair answers to several nicknames; namely, “Bozy”, “Batch’’, and “Man- ie”. It is fortunate that “Bozy” is a bicycle enthusiast, for he spends a great part of the day delivering spe¬ cials for the post oflfice. In fact, he takes great pleasure in leaving school early for this purpose. “Bozy” is an admirer of Mr. Dixon and considers United States History his favorite sub¬ ject. Outside of school he enjoys es¬ pecially the winter sports, not to men¬ tion a stamp collection and a foreign correspondent. Mildred Bennett “Millie”, who is enrolled in the Sec¬ retarial Course, plans to join the an¬ nual trek to Burdett College. We are sure the trail will prove an easy one because of her happy-go-lucky ways. Her ambition is to travel all over the United States and find—a man. She didn’t have to go too far beyond the limits of the Bay State, though, to dis¬ cover a lad in Portsmoutn, in. H., who’ll do until she can take that trip. Her frequent excursions into New Hamp¬ shire should go a long way toward ap¬ peasing that wanderlust. Charles Bercland “Charlie” is one of our best mech¬ anically-minded students. His ambi¬ tion is to be successful, and we know if he keeps up the good work he’ll get there. You can find Charlie down at the “ole swimmin’ hole” now that sum¬ mer has arrived, for Charlie likes his swimming. His theory is that the girls are chasing him. He’s a lady-killer, all right, and that popular refrain has been changed to “Oh, Charlie” much to the consternation of the other boys, who wonder what he has—they know it isn’t money. Charlie plans to put his knowledge at the feet of success and try to get a job this summer. Barbara Bird This Bird is a red-headed one, and it’s not a woodpecker! It must be “Birdie” or Carrot-konk!” then. Yes, lovable “Birdie”, who would like to fly an aeroplane! “Birdie” belongs to Tri-Hi, rates a high position in the Honors group, sews like an expert, plays tennis, dances beautifully, and sings in A Capella Choir. She likes history and the hot debates that go with it. Unanimous approval greeted her selection as one of the fairest of the fair chosen to model graduation clothes. With her philosophy of “Baugh at yourself”, “Birdie” is sure to sail successfully through business col¬ lege. Eight — 19 41 Barbara Blaikie “Barb” is one of the social stars of dear old R. H. S., and being an active member of the Pioneer Statf, the Ex¬ ecutive Board, and the ' lri-Hi, not to mention her countless ciubs, “Barb” is kept pretty busy with social obliga¬ tions. But pray, stranger, do not labor under the false impression that because she is a tea hound, she is nothing but a pampered pet. A hater of monotony, a ready dispenser of wit, a far-sighted director of her own affairs, a pnilo- sopher who deals in optimism — she stands out as a personality of great magnetism and singular charm. (For further superlatives, consult D. ri., esq.) Lewis Bosson Having absorbed the knowledge of the scientific course, “G” plans tuture study for life as a chemical engineer. Lewy” says his most thrilling moment was when he got his Model A Ford. Lewys” favorite animal is the wolf, and he admits that his principal hobby is girl friends. We are inclined to con¬ cur with him on that score. He’s taken active part in Rifle Club and Band activities, has often wheedled the pro¬ jector at Hi-Dime assemblies into giv¬ ing its all to the show, and his charac¬ terization of “Driscoll” in the Senior Play will long be remembered. George Brennan When you become an admiral in the U. S. Navy, “Punchy’’, we hope you won t forget the Library Wall and the boys who kept you company there. Punchy” says his last dollar would go the way of most of his dollars and end up in some ice cream parlor. He has been taking the Accounting Course and hopes now that it will stand him in good stead in his attempt to get into the .Navy. Another member of the gang whose thumbs swing automatical¬ ly toward Stoneham, “Punchy” can be seen at many a dance down there. Mary Bronk Mary, who can inject pep into any gathering by playing the piano, is equally successful with the Secretarial Course. She is going to be remember¬ ed by all of us as the accompanist for Orchestra and Choir. Her ambition is to become a good secretary and to keep up her study of music. At the Senior Carnival, Mary banged up her ankle, but we’re happy to note, it’s acting like its old self now. During convalescence Mary acquired a nick¬ name which threatens to stay with her —“Limpy”. She’s won much acclaim, as well as a radio and a scholarship, with her piano interpretations. Gerald Brooks In this corner we have a classmate whose ideal is Clark Gable! Yes, here comes that versatile fugitive from a soccer ball, Susky”. His activities at R. H. S. have been strictly soccer, but outside enthusiasms include hock¬ ey, skiing, and girls. Everybody knows where to find him—at Mc¬ Cann’s. If they have it, “Susky” has eaten it. He says that he wants 10 succeed—if it’s among the ladies, “Susky” is off to a good start. He’s been buried in the Civics and Business Course. He ' s going to work this summer if some president of a com¬ pany will only resign and let him take over. Marguerite Brophy If you see a crowd of boys in any of the corridors, you can just bet “Dimples” is around. This cute little girl is very popular. “Miggie’’ plans to train herself to be a good housewife and then, and not until then, she’ll get married. She should be able to save that lucky husband some money, be¬ cause she loves to design dresses and she s going to perfect her talents along those lines, too, before she takes that fatal plunge, by becoming a dress de¬ signer in some swank shoppe. Barbara Bryant Everyone will remember Barbara as “Auntie” of the Senior Play, for “Barb” gave a hilariously funny performance as Mrs. Keefe in “Through the Night”. Hats off to the girl who can turn so completely scatterbrained with so lit¬ tle trouble and yet win high ranking in our Honors Parade. Her love of fun has made her everybody’s friend, and a logical choice for co-author of our Class Will. There aren’t many activities that “Barb” has missed. Be¬ sides Tri-Hi and basketball, she joined Rainbow and Junior Woman’s Club. Philip Burbine Most any girl would make a hit with this fellow if she could show him a way to keep a part in his hair. Whenever you pass by a puddle, please don’t throw stones into it because you might hit Frog”, better known as “Chip”. “Chip”, a member of the soccer and basketball squads, is an easy fellow to get along with ; he always has a joke ready and never fails to put a smile on your face. Can you see “Burbine’s Farm” in big white neon lights? You might as well adjust yourself to the idea, because that ’s all that “Chip” can see when he contemplates the future. Nine SENICC Robert Burrows Meet an enthusiast for and student authority on United States History! “Bob” is the quiet, scholarly president of the Debating Club (quiet, that is, until he takes the floor—and invariably the decision—in any verbal fray), who easily fills the number one orator’s place in our school. Besides being an active member of the Service Squad, he participated in many cross¬ country events. “Bob” plans to be¬ come a certified public accountant upon graduation from Northeastern. That he was elected Faculty Honors speak¬ er and obtained a regular position early this year are two indications of his in¬ evitable success. Shirley Bussell “Buzzie” is one of our more indus¬ trious blonde secretarial students. Her favorite subject is bookkeeping. Her intriguing, and, we must admit, prac¬ tical and far-sighted ambition is to be a secretary to a senior executive who has a junior partner—or a son. To train for this future, “Buzzie” plans to attend Bryant and Stratton next year. If she can team up with the right kind of nag, she’ll no doubt continue this summer her prowess as an eques¬ trienne, acquired by faithful attend¬ ance at sessions of the Riding Club. Wilbur Gail Ship ahoy to “Rick”. His life’s am¬ bition is to be an admiral in Uncle Sam’s Navy. “Rick’’? Why, he’s that tall fellow who couldn’t help being no¬ ticed around school, even if it weren’t for that wave in his hair. His fav¬ orite spot for relaxation is in Stone- ham. It would appear that this gentle¬ man prefers blondes, for strangely enough, “Rick” harbors a very great dislike for Detention except when Miss Carpenter is taking it. We can easily see your point of view, Rick.” Jeanette Callan Jean,” whose philosophy of life is to mind her own business, is going to attend Burdett. We all know she’ll succeed, even though she has enjoyed shorthand least among her studies at R. H. S. Millionaires are wanted by all girls, but we’d say that you have a fair chance of getting one, “Cal”, and if you’re going to realize your ambi¬ tion—to live in a penthouse—we can see the necessity for an early cam¬ paign along these lines. Just at pre¬ sent, Jean spends a lot of time in Mason’s cellar, but her head is in the clouds and her most thrilling moment was an aeroplane ride. Carolyn Campbell The capable editor-in-chief of Pio¬ neer and co-salutatorian of our class, Carolyn is an outstanding senior. Cur¬ rently she is competing for a scholar¬ ship to Jackson College, where she hopes to study medicine. Her ambition is to grow a few inches taller! And her formula for success : “I do my best and hope.” Her many activities include Student Council, Student Forum, Rain¬ bow Girls, and participation whenever possible in tennis, swimming, and bad¬ minton. Need we tell you that base¬ ball is also one of the big interests in life? Her pet peeve is “Joe Cronin and the way he runs the Red Sox.” Constance Carder This cheerful gal of the friendly smile and dancing feet has been pur¬ suing the Civic Preparatory Course. “Connie” loves to dance and partici¬ pate in sports, and incidentally she’s an A-l swimmer. Next year she’s go¬ ing to a beauty culture school and learn all about hairdressing. She spends her summers and spare time at Lake Winnepesaukee—what’s the big attrac¬ tion, “Connie??’ Art period and Mr. Kibbee’s humor will be foremost among Connie’s memories of R. H. S. Joseph Carder What we’d like to know is where “Curley” was whenever a football ral¬ ly was in session. This personable co¬ captain of our immensely successful football team has a positive mania for avoiding any sort of speech-making. Much to the disappointment of the fair lasses in Reading, “Dodie’s” affections all reside in the North Country. A member of the National Guard, “Dodie” left us this year for Camp Edwards, but he intends to receive his diploma with the rest of his class, and we sin¬ cerely hope that a leave of absence for graduation days will be allowed him. Roger Caron “Harvard, here I come!” is the cry of Roger, a member of the Student Forum, the Traffic Squad, and the De¬ bating Club. His ambition is to be¬ come a research chemist. Right now lie’s in training, and this summer he’s going to pass those college boards or bust! After that, lie’s going to take a month off for a quiet fishing trip. His favorite subject is math, and scho¬ lastically he stands eighth in the class. If you have any chess problems, bring them to Roger and he’ll figure them out, if anyone can. We hear also that he can become bored, which prob¬ ably explains why lie took up chess and eating roast piglet. Right, Roger? . — 19 41 Alexander Clapperton Anytime you spy a flashy blue and white Ford, painted like a circus wag¬ on and whizzing right along, it will probably be Alec” at the wheel. Now, it the driver steps out and reveals even flashier clothes, topped by a head of brilliant red hair, you L Know it’s Alec”. His favorite course has been mechanical drawing, and he’s swift to shout his idea of nothing at all is a certain little volume called “Brown¬ ing’s Poems”. He has been working at a local machine shop in the summer time and we know that he’ll become an expert machinist later on. Barbara Clark Clarkie”, who is an attractive stu¬ dent of the Secretarial Course, would like to work, of all places, in an or¬ phan ' s home. (Why ? It can’t be that she goes in for orphans. “Normie” has the usual quota oi parents). Maybe it’s because she dislikes snorthand homework with a vengeance. Her va¬ cation this summer will make up for that, she vows. Her ideal is Miss Ernst, and she hopes someday to teach his¬ tory. We know you’ll be a success, Barb”, because 01 your sunny smile. Gerald Colford “Blackie’’ hopes some day to be a professional baseball player. But in the meantime he has been struggling with the Irregular Course and solving hard algebra problems. He has pai- ticipated in high school baseball and soccer, and was the varsity goalie on the latter team. His pet peeve is swing music and his favorite sport is— you guessed it—baseball. He plans to get a job after graduation and we know he will with his slogan for success: If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” John Collins “Jackie” is one of the commuters from the Highlands and has contribu¬ ted much valuab.e talent to R. H. S. sports. He has played football, inter- mural basketball, and, most important of all, baseball, jack” pians to enter Wentworth Institute this fall and he will probably play footba 1 there. We don’t know why, but people wlto snore loudly or breathe i.aid are his pet peeves. One of Jack ' s big thrills, he says, came when he found i.is name on the Honor Roil. He seems to divide his time between the Ecco Store and the baseball field. He should wow ’em” if they need a good first baseman at Wentworth. Paul Connelly Paul and his clarinet are familiar to all of us, who are accustomed to see¬ ing them in the company of either “Rich” Robbins or a girl. He has been a Band and Orchestra member for three years and has also been secretary for the Hi-Y Club. Paul plans to continue his work in the College Course as a P. G. next fall. His ambition is to own and aeroplane and his iavorite sport is skiing, while his pet aversions are “excessively painted” girls and pep- talk assemblies. His most thrilling moment came at the Senior Carnival (too bad someone took that picture of you, eh Paul?). Sonia Courossi “Sonny” has personality plus! She has been an outstanding athlete and an actress who did a superb job in the Senior Play. A member of Tri-Hi, captain of the Basketball Team for three years, a cheerleader, and a mem¬ ber of the Hockey Team and Tennis Squad. “Sonny” keeps busy. She defi¬ nitely does not like Guy Lombardo; her idea of music is Gene Krupa who “is wonderful’’. Sonia’s ambition is to be a good singer and to visit Hollywood. Her visit, unless we miss our guess, will probably turn out to be a per¬ manent one when the movie moguls get a good look at her. Dorothy Cress A recent addition to our class is “Dotty Cress”, from neighboring Stoneham. Everyone likes this happy- go-lucky girl, and her ambition to be a model shouldn’t be hard to attain. This summer Dot” plans to work and then off to school. During her brief stay with us, Dot” has enjoyed short¬ hand and typing and lunch periods. Dotty”, we’re all waiting for your first appearance on the cover of some fam¬ ous magazine. Todd Crooker Todd Crooker is one of the most ac¬ tive members of the Service Squad. He does his duty well and is so good-na¬ tured about it that most R. H. S. students don’t mind a calling down from him. After school hours- he has worked for quite a whi le as a filling station attendant. He also must be quite an artist judging by his car. Af¬ ter looking at that masterpiece- you don’t need to be argued into believing that art is his favorite subject. Todd and “Al” Doughty have rounded up some nifties for the humor department of Pioneer. Eleven SENICCX Phyllis Cullington Everyone knows her for her sense of humor, which starts in a spontan¬ eous burst of laughter and tapers off to a lingering giggle. Take it from “Phil,” laughing is the sure way to succeed. She should know. She ' s one of our most enthusiastic “bleacheret- tes” at football and basketball games; she lists as her favorite “subject —the Navy! “Phil’’ is one of the numer¬ ous Rainbow girls; ultimately, she hopes to become a trained nurse; and when she has circled the globe, she will have fulfilled her greatest ambi¬ tion. Thelma Currell “Thel” is a popular girl with every¬ one in dear old R. H. S. Wjhen “Thel’’ isn’t dancing, swimming, or skiing, she can usually be found at Torre’s with all the gang. She is a member of Rainbow and she has helped out lots with our class affairs. Employment is hers as soon as she graduates—a job with E. B. Currell and Son, where the Accounting Course, which she has been so ardently studying, will come in very handy. William Dacey Here is one of our star athletes, a great guy who has proven himself thus in football, baseball, and basketball. “Don admits that his favorite hang¬ out is Oak Street. We all know why. Besides sports “Don” has taken part in many school activities, a few of which are the affairs of Hi-Y, the Senior Play Committee, the Senior Ex¬ ecutive Board, and the Service Squad. He says that the event he enjoyed most at R. H. S. was the Senior Carnival. Didn’t we all, and we weren’t chosen king of it, either! Most of “Don’s ideas arc interesting; consider his pet peeve : ticklish girls! This summer he intends to work and then either to attend Northeastern University or to join the Navy. Best wishes, “Sailor”. John Dagdigian John Dagdigian, alias “Guffa”, is one of the most friendly members of the Service Squad. His post is at one of the busiest corners of the school, and yet he never seems to lose his temper at anybody who breaks the traffic rules. He has served just as faithfully on the Reading High Football Squad for three years. “Guffa” states that his ideal is Hedy Lamarr (and a very nice one, too). John hopes to enter Wentworth Institute and become a machinist. Best of luck, Guffa ; we need good ma¬ chinists now. Robert Dagdigian Among the vast hordes that crowd into Boston Gardens you may often see “Little Beaver , for here is an avid Bruin fan. He is not only a hockey fan, but a whizz of a player in his own right, and is often dressed in the red and blue of our local “Braves”. He says, incidentally, that he’d like to see more fans up at the Walnut Street rink. Aside from hockey Didge” also plays a lot of baseball and may be round enjoying this pastime during the summer months wnen he isn’t farming. His pet peeve is giggling girls, and we suspect he has a certain one in mind. Right, “Little Beaver ? Gertrude Dahlquist “Swede” is planning to attend Wil¬ fred’s Academy next year. She has taken part in A Capella Choir, Orches¬ tra, and most every sport Reading High has to offer. “Gert” likes classical mu¬ sic and enjoyed “Fantasia” so much that she would spend her last dollar to see it again. Muscles” enjoys play¬ ing symphonies on the piano. Her highest ambition is to marry a million¬ aire, which is her formula for success, if she doesn’t make the grade, she’ll be an old maid. Logically, Fords are her pet peeve, and her favorite food is Svenska kjotbullar. (How’s it sound to you ? ) Jean Danforth A refreshing cheerfulness and good humor is the rule, rather than the ex¬ ception, with Jean. For her, the per¬ fect high school life would consist of no homework or dull speeches; more and better vacations, study periods, and lunch periods; and a few classes —pre¬ ferably English—now and then. Be¬ sides being a member of the A Cap¬ ella Choir, Jean is no amateur at her three favorite sports, horseback rid¬ ing, tennis, and swimming. After a summer at camp, she ' s headed for more school and success. Edgar Davis “Stinky” (“J. Edgar”, by the way, is the appellation he’s still trying to pro¬ mote) can be seen any morning dash¬ ing around the corridors, talking to everyone. He has participated each season in R. FI. S. baseball frays, but he says his heart belongs to the “Mud- ville Tech” pitching staff. He is go¬ ing to work this summer, he hopes, but if he doesn’t mind, or even if he does, he’ll find time for his old haunts—Mc¬ Cann’s and the Library Wftll. We don’t see how we’ve almost omitted the fact that lie was manager for the Foot¬ ball Team and a very familiar sight running out on the field with “Doc’s” bag. T welve —. ■ 1941 Virginia Davis You can’t keep up with “Ginny,” she’s always that busy. “Ginny” is president of Tri-Hi, an active participant in Jun¬ ior Woman’s Club affairs, an expert rider of the Riding Club, and a mem¬ ber of several teams and numerous committees. We’ll never forget the grand job she did as “Kay” in the Senior Play. Her favorite subject is art, and along with eating and sleep¬ ing, her favorite pastime is drawing. Ginny” says she likes tall blond men, but we think she likes them all. By the way her motto is “.Lie a good girl, but have a good time, anyway.” Doris Dunn Another in our line of future secre¬ taries, “Dot’’ plans to work after grad¬ uation—for a while, anyway. Dot” is an ardent sportswoman, with swim¬ ming, skating, bowling, tennis—and, of course, dancing—being her favorites. Her favorite hangout, when she’s not in school, is a light brown Pontiac ’cause she’s another fast working girl who’s sporting a friendship ring, and a man to go with it. Her friendly and easy-going personality has made her a favorite with everyone besides “Bob”. Mary Delano Actress Mary intends to enroll at a dramatic school next year, her ambi¬ tion is to act like Helen Hayes, she frequently delights audiences with her readings (Rainbow often takes advan¬ tage of her being a member by asking her to read), and she had the leading role in a play put on by the Reading Woman’s Club, of which she is an hon¬ orary member—yet Mary has time and talent for another art , designing and sketching. She sketches life-like peo¬ ple and ready-to-wear clothes with a few deft strokes, in school, Mary en¬ joys Latin ; outside, dancing. She man¬ ages both supeibly. It seems that everything Mary attempts she calmly does well. Newton Dickie “Newt”, better known as “Farmer’’, has been a member of Hi-Y and the Football Squad. Here at R. H. S. he enjoyed most the Senior Carnival and Miss Devaney’s English class. At one time he owned a horse and drove a Packard. “Newt’s” favorite hangout is “halfway up on the next block”—in Woburn; in the same breath, he says that his pet peeve is fickle girls. We’re sure “Newt” will be as succesful a farmer as any yet. As long as you keep that smile, you won’t have to worry, “Farmer.” Alexander Dissel Meet “Diss’’, the fellow you see wield¬ ing one of “Charlie ' s” brooms after¬ noons about three o’clock. “Alex” wants to become a cartoonist, and af¬ ter seeing some of his work and lis¬ tening daily to samples of his pun¬ gent wit, we’re sure he’ll be a suc¬ cess. He’s going to art school and in the future hopes to become a great skiier (not at art school). “Diss” won the conveted honor of having his de¬ sign chosen for the cover of this grad¬ uation issue of Pioneer; you’ll also find his name among the Write-ups Staff in the index. He has proclaimed this as his formula for success, and we quote, “Treat them rough and tell them nothing.” Patricia Donegan “Pat” is a quiet girl who is braving it through the Accounting Course. Loyal team mate that she is, she lists field hockey as her favorite sport. Her most thrilling moment was the Senior Carnival. Who or what was the cause of that, we wonder, “Pat”. All the hot fudge sundaes she could eat, plus a trip to Bermuda, would contribute to making her dreams come true. Pat says that she hates to hear her name mispronounced. If she means her last name, we don’t think that will bother her in a few years. Norma Doran Anytime you hear a giggle and see a flash of red, look twice and you will probably discover “Nim”. She is a member of Junior Woman’s Club, and as far as we can ascertain has never missed a session of our noontime dan¬ ces. She spends most of her pennies on ice cream at Merrick’s. This sum¬ mer, as a fugitive from homework and exams, “Red” is going to have herself a good time—then on to work in the fall. Edward Doucette “Bubbles’’, the little giant of the Senior Class, wants to be a jockey. Boy! What a life ! ’Way back in the third grade he was heard to remark, and we quote, “I grew big; I was grow¬ ing bigger until that day I smoked my papa’s pipe—since then, I’ve been shrinking..” It’s all been for the best “Bubbles”, for success in your chosen field. He claims he despises tests, but who doesn’t? In his spare time, he goes swimming, plays baseball, and eats fried clams. Well, we’ll be seeing you in the sports write-ups. Bring that horse in, “Bubbles”. Thirteen SENIOR Ernest Doucette If you’re near the center of town and hear a rattle and rumble accompanied by the clink of bottles, look around. The chances are it’s “Ernie . Yes, you guessed it: he totes bundles for Mar¬ tin’s store on busy days. His ambition is to meet Lana Turner, but we imag¬ ine some other lass will change his mind, for that curly hair has made many a fraulein’s heart beat faster. “Ernie ' has been a busy lad as basketball man¬ ager, member of the Debating Club, and an “officer” of tne Service Squad. He wants to live up north on Bur¬ roughs Road, where, he says, all is peace and quiet. Esther Doucette When you bump into someone whom you can’t see witnout squinting, you ' ve probably come upon “Peanut”. Es¬ ther’s chief ambition is to grow a lit¬ tle more, tier tastes in sports are odd ones for a gal—softball and baseball. Confidentially, “Shorty’s” most event¬ ful or thrilling moment so far was being kissed for the first time. At last, one girl admits it! She is taking the Civics and Business Course, and if she puts as much energy into her future job as she has into life so far, she’ll go places fast. Gerald Doucette “Jed” may not be well known to the fair sex in Reading High, but he is known by the boys all right. His fav¬ orite sport is baseball and many’s the night he can be seen down at the Washington Street ballpark, making life miserable for the poor umpire. A former National Guardsman- “Jed’’ looks upon this draft problem with the eye of experience. One of the “Three Musketeers” he can be found at their hangout, McCann’s, when not at the ball he ' d. He plans a trip South next winter and hopes to get as far as Flor- ida. Stephen Doucette Have you ever seen the American Legion Road Race? Then you prob¬ ably know “Step”, one of tne town’s runners and a star of the Cross-Coun¬ try Team. “Step”, queer as it may seem, wants one day to be an under¬ taker. (We hope that we don’t have to pay him any professional calls for a long time.) The Navy is going to get a new recruit this June when “Step” graduates. The only thing that we’re worried about is where can “Step” practice his cross-country on a battleship, or worse still, a sub¬ marine! Incidentally, “Step”, what will your ideal be doing while you’re at sea? Alfred Doughty “Al”, or “The Ferret” as he is com¬ monly called, is known to everyone as the Service Squad agent stationed just outside the Music Room door. His great ambition is to go to college. He also feels that he’d succeed as an au¬ tomobile salesman. He played the part of Holbrook in the senior play and we all enjoyed his acting, especially the second night of the performance. “The Chamber of Horrors” at the Country Fair we shall cherish as another in¬ stance of his thespian proclivities. “Al’’ says that the thing he enjoyed most at R. H. S. was Miss Devaney’s English class. Making friends is his formula for success, and we can see that this isn’t going to be hard for him to do. Francis Doughty You may set down “Fran s” favorite hangout as the Library for at least once a day he frequents these sur¬ roundings. Outside of reading he thinks that there’s nothing better than a good game of baseball or a swim or a football game—so you see, lie’s hap¬ py whatever the season, llis favorite subject is history, but according to him, his greatest ambition is to get an “A” in French. “Fran’s ' ’ emoting for the “Chamber of Horrors” was a thing to behold! Donald Douglass “Don” used to be a woman-hater. The female concensus is that Don is good looking, but he just doesn’t seem to care. In the spring and summer, he can most always be found at the ball park, and in the winter he plays hockey at Sturges’s. His spare time is devoted to such worthy pursuits as model aeroplane building (he wants to be an aeronautical engineer) and play¬ ing tennis with Bob Olsen. Besides all this, he has the distinction of being one of the select few who ride bicycles to school. Jean Dow Jean’s been indispensable to Miss Nichols in every sport available to girls. She is a lover of sports and a good sport herself. Her favorites are bas¬ ketball, bowling and swimming. As a news editor of Pioneer, she has sharpened her hearing collecting juicy gossip for that wo rthy magazine. As chairman of properties for the Senior Play, she dashed in and out of school continuously, and as co-chairman of Class Elections, she’s had to prove that a woman can keep a secret. Next year, she hopes to go to Chandler and, ultimately, to own a deluxe convertible club coupe. If you ' re always as busy as you’ve been in school, Jean, you’ll need that car. t Fourteen 19 4 1 Florence Duggan “Flo’’—or “Duggan” as she is con¬ tinually called, despite all her objec¬ tions—has been busy all during high school. She took part in Tri-Hi bas¬ ketball, tennis, and A. A. affairs. She could be found every Saturday during the season on the football field. “Flo” was our peppy, cntnusiastic head cheer¬ leader this year, and even if the boys made it easy by giving her something to cheer for, she did a beautiful job. Besides sports, “Flo” likes dancing, va¬ cations- and bookkeeping, and despises rainy days and exams. Marilyn Edwards That friendly, amiable person who has brightened up the old school con¬ siderably for the past three years is Marilyn, who now has a yen to travel. Yes, her fondest ambition is to take a jaunt around the world, and this sum¬ mer, for practice, she expects to do a little gallivanting around New York and Maine. Marilyn’s most thrilling moment occurred one fateful New Year’s Eve. Why not let us in on it, Marilyn? For the past three years, she has busily pursued the Secretarial Course and after school would like to work. Robert Eis enhaure When better farmers are needed, “Bob” will be right on hand to fill the demand. Confidentially, though, he admits that farm life is not the life for him and that he plans to seek other work this summer. Maybe he’ll be able to find a use for mechanical drawing, at which he fairly shines. A lover of sports, he enjoys and plays football, baseball and basketball. His first roller coaster ride was his most thrilling moment, so he claims, but we are inclined to think that he doesn’t spend most of his time in Reading for purely academic reasons. Muriel Evans “Mickey” is one of our Room 3, Per¬ iod 1, shorthand addicts, whose chief ambition is to be a good wife. She has taken part in Glee Club and Or¬ chestra activities, and her musical hob¬ bies are dancing and listening to the ra¬ dio. We can’t forget that she’s been a very pleasing and efficient waitress in the cafeteria. “Mickey” spends most of her time in a ’37 Chevrolet in the winter (“Oh Johnny!”) and on her front porch in the summer. She likes to sleep, swim, and eat bananas, and her pet peeve, from which she is about to escape forever, is homework on date nights. Helen Farr Life as a dress designer in the big city is beckoning to tnis talented art student. Helen ' s favorite sports are tennis, swimming, skating, skiing, and canoeing. Wnat a schedule! She con¬ fesses that her most thrilling moment was on New Year’s Eve. Yvhy do so many things seem to befall the Class of ’41 on that fateful night? We hear rumors about numerous parties in Bev¬ erly and the multiple attractions of Dan¬ vers. Helen plans in the not too dis¬ tant future to land some lucky mil¬ lionaire and to go to Hawaii. Mildred Faulkner “Millie”, whose idea of life is to eat, sleep, and be merry, practically lives at 354 Main st. She, too, is en¬ rolled in the Secretarial Course and she, too, hoDes to get a good job this fall. Her most thrilling moment came on November 21, 1940, but she refuses to supply further details. “Foxy’s” hobby is collecting Kay Kyser record¬ ings, but she’ll settle for Glenn Miller, too. If you’re looking tor “Millie” and she’s not at that Main Street address, it’s only because she’s playing nurse¬ maid to a group of little angels. Frank Fisher A flash of color down the corridor! We don’t need to lock too closely to identify it as Frank in that flashy sportcoat of his. “Fisher ’ is an ardent movie fan, and he has been seen in the vicinity of Belmont Street quite fre¬ quently, too. Hockey and swimming head the list of Frank’s pastimes, but roller skating is near the top, too. Frank has ah eady worked as a mech¬ anic, a chauffeur, a truck driver, and a grocery clerk, so he shouldn’t be at a loss to find something to do after grad¬ uation. Dorothy Fleminc “Dot” likes lunch and study periods, and this spring she found occasion to add Senior Carnival to that list. She wants to be a secretary, and very soon she will further prepare herself for a business career by attending Burdett College. This summer, however, she wou ' d like to drive to California with “Jeanie.” She wouldn’t exactly object to flying back, because positively her biggest moment to date was her first ride in an aeroplane. Her message to her classmates is “Mind your own busi¬ ness and don’t believe everything you hear. (But isn’t it interesting just the same, “Dot”?) Fifteen SENIOR Mary Alice Flynn Here is one of those lucky persons who expect to go to the beach and just bask in the sun and swim this summer. What a heavenly existence! After that, Chandler Secretarial School will probably boast of Mary’s membership. Her pet peeve is oral re¬ ports. Who can blame her? Her am¬ bition is to learn to drive, so if you happen to run across a car weaving un¬ certainly across the road—beware! Oh, well, just flash the inspector that smile, Mary, and you’ll get there. Edward Ford “Ed” Ford’s was a new face at R. H. S. this year, lie came to us from Man¬ chester back in September, but he’s so much a part of us now that it seems much longer than that. “Ed” tells us that ours is the fourth high school that he has attended. He evidently likes this one, because he intends to be around next year for a P. G., after which he will enroll down South at Duke. He must love to travel! “Ed” works in a gas station on South Main Street and you’d better not try to short change him for he is a whiz at math. Clarence Fraughton “Clary” has been an outstanding member of the R. H. S. Band for three years, by virtue of his renditions on that trusty clarinet. He has also play¬ ed for a number of orchestras in Read¬ ing and its environs. His favorite sub¬ ject is art, and this summer he’s going to get right after a job so that he’ll be all set for an art school next fall. He claims that he enjoys going into Bos¬ ton so frequently to see the newest mo¬ tion pictures. We wonder! He is sel¬ dom seen without Bill Friedlander, and some mornings they’re as sleepy a looking pair as you’d meet at any gate tender’s shanty. William Friedlander “Bill” whom many of us knew at the Prospect Street, Highland, and Junior High Schools, tried to convince himself that he needed a change, but couldn’t stay away, and this year we welcomed him back. He is one of our hard working classmates. He can be seen early in the morning slinging newspapers in the direction of door¬ steps and in the afternoon, and far into the night, slinging sodas at the Haven Spa, where he’s an expert “jerker”. Bill is planning on both work and night school, and he won’t wait until the summer’s over to be¬ gin either. Esther Frotten “Es” has been active in A Capella Choir and Basketball, dancing and bowling. And we really mean active as regards the third item on that list. To sing with a band is Esther’s ambi¬ tion. Her ideal is “Henry”. For fur¬ ther details see “Es”, or possibly her faithful friend and companion “Dot”. Esther is an unusual girl in that she tells us she is most bored when shop¬ ping and that she dislikes seeing people chew gum. She can generally be found in her spare time at “Wal¬ ly’s” in Malden. Helen Gadbois “Gaddy” is the quiet type, but good listeners are always popular. She has taken the Practical Arts Course while attending R. H. S., and it has doubt¬ less supplied her with her ambition, to be a dress maker and to own her own shop. She detests book reports, but we don’t see any chance of her being subjected to more of them by the course she’s mapped out. Her inclin¬ ations for the immediate future are along domestic lines, because this sum¬ mer she plans to be mother’s helper. We hope “Gaddy” will remember her pals with reduced rates in that dress shop! Phyllis Garey Phyllis claims she doesn’t have any time now to have a favorite hangout, but if you go to a certain drug store after school, you’ll find her with Bette and Dot! “Phil” has enjoyed especial¬ ly her senior year, Tennis, Chorus, and Band in High School, while outside of school Rainbow and Junior Woman’s Club have her busy. Student director¬ ship of the Senior Play occupied much of Phyllis’ time, and you will agree that she filled this position very ably. People who reminisce will please stay out of “Phil’s” life, as she hates ’em! Ethel Greenyer We wonder now what our class was like before Ethel came along—was it only last fall? She’s livened us up a bit; eh, Paul? “Pudgie’’ comes from Malden, where she took active parts in Tri-Hi, Usona, Latin Honor Society, and En Ka Sorority. Here at Read¬ ing she’s no less ambitious, we might add. She’s going to train to be a nurse next year, and then watch the spread of epidemics! She likes home room periods, roller-skating, Hedy La¬ marr, and Latin. Her dislikes include serious people, guidance assemblies, and the memory of December 31, 1939. Why Ethel! Sixteen = 1941 Herbert Grimes If you see a dilapidated black and yellow Ford streaking about town, “Trapper” is sure to be at the wheel. Herby” says bis car and girls are his pet peeves, but w ' e know better. Why, we have a feeling that he’d spend his last sou for gasoline! “Herb’’ has been band master of the R. H. S. Band and has also been a member of the Rifle Team. It will be hard to forget his interpretation of “Di : scoll”, the villain in Through the Night”, and we have a hunch that if Hollywood sees that profile and that happy-go-lucky smile, “Herb’s” worries are over. Betty Gullam “Gully” has been studying the art course for the past three years, and has served ably on decorating commit¬ tees for various dances. “Teddy” has enjoyed most in High School, evident¬ ly in this order, for we quote: “football games, Mr. Kibbee, and dances.’’ She considers her disposition “good-natured but boring.” She plans to take a P. G. and then continue on to art school. Af¬ ter that ? Well, she asserts that she is going to be an old maid and live with a cat and a parrot, but we have our doubts! “Gully’s” worthy ambition is to make the world art-conscious and to make others as well as herself hap¬ py. We’d say she couldn’t miss. Chester Gunn Who was captain of the Soccer Team for two years, and who was a main¬ stay on the Tennis Team for three years ? Why, “Squirt Gunn”, of course! “Chet’’ has kept Miss Devaney’s Eng¬ lish IV class in stitches with his catchy little stories, his whimsical essays, and his blood curdling mystery thrillers. An ardent admirer of Bobby Bauer of the Boston Bruins, “Chet” is aiming high and hoping some day to be a mem¬ ber of that same club. John Hamilton Everyone knows “Honey”, or “Silent John as he is sometimes called. What we’d like to know is where did be get that first one—“Honey”. All kidding aside, John is a regular fellow who says little, but accomplishes much. He is pursuing the Civic and Business Preparatory Cou: se and is doing very well, thank you. Track, football, base¬ ball, apd basketball are among John’s favorite sports. He’d like to get some¬ where in the Navy, and anyone can see that lie will. Alden Heath “Biter” Heath they called him in those days. Let us tell you a secret: “Biter’’ is really an outstanding hock¬ ey player produced right here in our great metropolis of Reading in the vicinity of Birch Meadow. Meadow Brook Golf Club is a very convenient spot to find “Biter” toting a golf bag with a smile. Our friend and yours, he will be a P. G. next year, which gives you girls a break, so grab him while you can because he vows that he’ll be back for only a year. Michael Hennessey One of the boys who frequent Mc¬ Cann’s on numerous occasions, “Mike” has been a member of the Soccer Team, and has also had fun at R. H. S. play¬ ing intermural basketball. His best friend is his pipe, which goes almost everywhere with him. “Mike” is quiet unless you really know him, but he’s not exactly shy and unassuming, either, as his teachers could testify. Work is ahead for him this summer, but he says, “Lead me to it.” Keep that attitude, “Mike’’ and you will sure¬ ly succeed. Ruth Hicks Here’s our shining valedictorian, and we’re sure that none can say Ruth doesn’t richly deserve her honor! Smil¬ ing, generous, agreeable — that’s our Ruth. Next year she’ll join her brother at Oberlin College, in Ohio, where she’ll continue her studies. “Rufus” has been a member of the Student Council and the Pioneer Staff, and. outside of school she is active in Rainbow and the Pilgrim Fellowship. She likes swimming, roller-skating, Macintosh apples, and Mr. Dixon’s history class. Ruth hates rainy days and “no talking” regulations; knowing her, we can see why. Richard Higgins Who doesn’t recognize “Pinky”, the well-known and popular R. H. S. stu¬ dent? “Pinky” doesn’t just play golf, it’s a part of him. A member of the team now, his greatest ambition is to be a professional golfer. His form¬ ula for success is “to pursue what you want and you’ll finally get it.” This may explain why Park Street West is his only hangout. “Higgy” on the whole is an outdoor man, detesting sleep and assemblies. We shall miss him this summer when he goes West. Seventeen on or SENIOR j i t r C Donald Hitchcock “Hitch” is a good natured fellow with a versatile smile and an easy manner, who, though he has been with us only since our junior year, in that short time has become one of the top-rank¬ ing students, and also one of the most popular. “Hitch’s” favorite subjects are biology and Sonja Henie. Besides taxiing Barbara or the Track Team to their varied destinations, “Don” has busied himself with affairs of the Pio¬ neer and Hi-Y. If you ' re looking for him this summer, he can usually be found at 27 Prescott Street. “Don” plans either to enter Tufts next year or take a P . G. Ernest Hubbard When you see a group of fellows walking along Woburn Street in the afternoon, quite often “Hubby” is among them, trudging his way over to “shop”. His favorite sports are ten¬ nis and baseball and he always is play¬ ing one or the other. Incidentally, if “Hubby” hadn’t been a working man and had gone out for baseball, he prob¬ ably would have been a regular per¬ former for the team. He says he greatly enjoys classes with jovial Pop” Wheeler, and who doesn’t? Lois Ives This is one of our most popular and active girls. “Lo’s” been a member of the Senior Executive Board and also a member of that gay quartet who framed the Prophecy. She thinks her disposition is rather unpredictable, but all her friends know better. An en¬ thusiastic member of the Riding Club, she straddles a horse once a week and the next day straddles nothing—along with the rest of the club members! The class crowned her queen at the Carni¬ val, and guess who was king. She is the very capable art editor of Pioneer. Thomas Jacob In this corner we have “Tom , ’ a happy-go-lucky student, who has tried valiantly to heckle many a teacher of Reading High. His favorite sport is walking on a foggy night” and his formula for success is never to worry. Nobody can deny that he has followed this formula while in R. H. S. He en¬ joyed most here the extra vacations and the current jokes. He has no definite plans for the summer, but expects to attend some school next fall. He’s a considerably well-read lad for his age, and will doubtless, a la Samuel John¬ son, confound his examiners there, as he has his dear classmates here, with some obscure allusion or two. Dorothy Jeanes “Dotty,” or “Chicken’’ to her inti¬ mates, is the girl who’s always ready with a bright sunny smile. Don’t be surprised if you see her whizz by on her bike this summer. During lunch periods “Dotty was a familiar sight over in the corner, struggling with her math. She got lots of help from her pals, anyway! “Dotty’s” ambition is to find a job and then to travel up into the Canadian Rockies, with her “best friend’’. His name wouldn’t be Har¬ old, or would it? % Barbara Jenkins “Jenky” is inclined to be very well disposed toward the world in general and enjoys, among most things, bicy¬ cling and swimming. In past summers “Punchy” has led an interesting ex¬ istence as an usherette in a summer stock company. Among her hobbies are coin and phonograph record col¬ lecting. She hopes to travel in the great, wide-open West some day and to enter the field of commercial art. “Punchy’s” ideal is our new and very likeable Miss Reed, and we don’t ex¬ actly blame her. Beverly Johnson The engaging smile and blond radi¬ ance of “Bev” have often been a help in dispelling the gloom of the familiar corridors and rooms of R. H. S. She has been a capable member pf our Field Hockey Team for two years and is always ready to help in any of our class affairs. She is pursuing the Ac¬ counting Course and hopes to get a job next year. “Blondie’s” favorite subject is art and her pet aversion is having a certain boy arrive late. We’re all with you, “B ev”, and hope you get that trip to Hawaii—with the same cer¬ tain someone by your side ! Ethel Johnson Remember that girl who had a friendly smile for everyone—well, here she is: Ethel. Bowling, basketball, and ice skating are her favorite sports. Her secret love is fried clams, and her pet aversion is conceited boys. Ethel is going to do nothing but sleep and relax this summer, because early next fall she plans to be a working girl. Anyone who makes good in the big city may run into Ethel at Grant’s Tomb or Radio City, because at her earliest opportunity she’ll take a trip to New York “to see the sights”. Eighteen 1941 Malcolm Johnston “Mac” is another one of our foot¬ ball heroes, and also a lover of winter sports. This summer he in¬ tends to work, after which he will at¬ tend Northeastern University, because at R. H. S. he has majored in math, and his ambition is to be an engineer. Mac’s favorite hangout is 92 How¬ ard Street. Guess why! Several scuool activities that he has taken part in are the Executive Board, the Service Squad, that famous “style” show, and Class Elections. His formula for suc¬ cess is work, and he is one of the few that practice what they preach. Barbara Jones “Barbie” is a busy girl, but it doesn’t get her down. A Capella Choir and Band are right up her alley, tor ulti¬ mately she wants to be a concert pian¬ ist. Outside of school she’s a regu¬ lar clubwoman—Rainbow, Y. P. R. U., and Junior Woman s Club. She is pur¬ suing the College Course, with junior college or secretarial school in im¬ mediate prospect. Sue goes for classi¬ cal records (says that she knows what she wants and nobody is going to per¬ suade her differently), but she conless- es that if she had a lot of money, a goodly share of it would be taken in at movie box-offices. Robert Jones “Bob” is the studious lad who spends his spare time preparing to become a draftsman. This summer he intends to take a good REST and then work, which seems to us an unbeatable plan. “Jonesie’s” pet peeve is homework, and lie’s not alone, ah, all alone with tnat idea either, here at Reading High he has found that his most enjoyable for¬ ty-five minute interludes were spent in Miss Reed s homeroom. Here’s to bigger and better drafting, Bob—and we don’t mean the army! John Kelly “Muggsy”, “Wrinkle”, “Crusher,” and “John L.”—yes, these are a few of the titles to which he answers. He has been an outstanding member of Read¬ ing High’s football and baseball teams. In his spare moments, confidentially, “Muggsy” has kept in training by in¬ dulging in terpsichorean fandangoes- under the pretty eye of a sophomore expert! He found his favorite food in the good old Italian spaghetti served at Storti’s house. While most people are in bed, he is a man in that band of our classmates who are delivering papers in the early morning hours. One of his aims is to attend school at the Heights. Good luck, John! Herbert Kenney “Herb” is an ardent student of book¬ keeping, which is his favorite subject, although he fairly “shines” in English and history classes. There is never a dull moment when a debate comes in the latter if “Herb” is right there in the middle of it. He enjoys sports, but prefers a good book. His ambition is to become a C. P. A., and he is off to a good start. Next year he plans to enter Northeastern, where he’ll take the C. P. A. preparatory course. Re¬ member, fellows, when your income tax reaches five digits, call on “Plerb” for help. Edith Kimball Cheerleading, dancing, Junior Wo¬ man’s Club, orchids, diamonds, and “Bob”—all play a big part in “Edie’s” life. “Edie’s” was the honor of be¬ ing chosen Junior girl by last year’s graduating class. More recently she’s been chairman of the “Country Fair” and a model in the Fashion Show. She participates in many sports, but she dis¬ likes lcneesocks, conceited people, home rooms, and new rules. Her big mom¬ ent was the evening of September 23, 1939, when Robert W. Hitchcock, Esq., came into her life. She is now in¬ terested in the College Course—later, undoubtedly, the matrimonial. Arthur Knapp “Art” is one of those rabid hockey fans who would rather play hockey than eat and would spend his last dol¬ lar on a hockey stick. He has been an important part of our Baseball Squad during his sojourn at High School and also lists tootball and swimming among his favorite sports. For the past three years, “Art’’ has been pur¬ suing the Fine Arts Course and after graduation expects to go to Mass. Art School. His most thrilling moment, “Art” says, was one New Year’s Eve. My, My, Cupid (we can only guess!) certainly seems to work overtime New Year’s Eve! Phyllis Lacey If she’s small and dark with a smile on her face, it’s “Phyll”, who has lent her lovely alto to the A Capella Choir in three years of faithful service, and has taken an active part in all tennis tournaments. For her hobby she pre¬ fers photography, and she selects walk¬ ing and dancing as the ideal “sports”. Next year, she ' s going to come back to R. H. S. as a P. G. to make sure no one forgets the Class of ' 41. Let this be an inspiration to all inert people. “Phyll’’ plans to learn typing and short¬ hand this summer. Nineteen SENIOR Robert Loud Bank presidents and army generals had better watch their jobs, for Bob is contemplating either a career in bus¬ iness or one in the army. A Civics and Business Course student, “Bob found that lunchtime was the most at¬ tractive spot in the day to his way of thinking, but, just possibly, that’s because a certain junior girl shared the same lunch period—eh, Bob ? At pre¬ sent “Bob” is employed in a local gro¬ cery store, but plans to better him¬ self after graduation. Horace Lander “Mink” is one of our busier class¬ mates. He has belonged to such varied activities as Hi-Y, the Golf Team, and A Capella Choir. “Sugar”, one of the “Musty Bears , says his favorite sports are golf, swimming, singing Mc¬ Namara ' s Band” at the football games, and jitterbugging. This summer “How¬ ie” will be assistant pro, no less, at Meadow Brook, and he plans to enter college soon. We’re all sure to see you at Meadow Brook, anyway, “How- Elmer Lincoln This quiet youth of the calm temper¬ ament and peaceful mien believes in pursuing the even tenor of his ways without any flourishes or decorations. While “Bull” holds that silence is gol¬ den, and never talks unless he has something very important to say, he is not lacking words in important places like class rooms,, when called upon to recite. Although he is one of those rare fellows who believe that success lies in strict attention to one’s business, he has never suffered unpopularity from l.is lack of gab. Fellow Hi-Y members will testify to that! A hard and effi¬ cient worker, “Bull” will make the road to success a comparatively easy one wherever he may be. Edwin Logan “Pst, Zeke, send up a big one. Many’s the senior at the cafeteria who has whispered that and got what he asked for, too! Eddie” says he ' ll save his last dollar. (We wonder.) We know he’s a working man, and like all steady workers, Zeke” is likely to be at home evenings. Just mention fish¬ ing or hunting, though, and he is off. (Confidentially, he knows where the best spots are.) He rates his dispo¬ sition as only “fair”. It’s no go, “Logy ; we’ll dispute that always. Carolyn Lumsden The girl beside this write-up is no doubt about the most active person you’ve ever met. She ' s a member of the Senior Executive Board, the Ten¬ nis Team, the Riding Club, and the Student Forum. As literary editor of Pioneer, she’s co-chairman of write¬ ups for this issue. Carolyn was chosen our representative at the D. A. R. con¬ ference in Boston—anotner high honor for the girl who walked away w r ith Class Honors. Believe it or not, with all these activities she still has time for studying, keeping good natured, and “Mac”. Next year she’ll be absorbing languages at Smith College to prepare for a career as a Civil Service interpreter. Alma Macdonald Some call her “Shrimp” and some call her “Mac,” but most people think the monicker her parents gave her is just as appropriate. Alma is that friendly little girl who makes one won¬ der if the human race really is getting bigger. In her spare time she pro¬ duces some lovely drawings; she also enjoys cooking and sewing (make a note of that, boys.) Alma can think of nothing R. H. S. has had to offer which pleased her more than assem¬ blies during class time. We all know that feeling, Alma. Evelyn MacLeod “Evie’s” favorite hangout is R. H. S. (there’s something about Room 7 be¬ fore school), but outside of school, most any time of day, you will find her curled up listening to the 9:20 Club. “Ev” is a member of A Capella Choir and she has two pastimes—one musical and the other domestic: danc¬ ing and cooking. She’s already found employment and should be w ' ell on her way soon to her goal—-a job as a “su¬ per” secretary. “Ev” wants to be a friend to everyone and says that to get along in this w r orld, you must be sure of your self. We’ll all try, “Mac”! Marjorie MacLeod All “Marge’s” friends like her jolly laugh and easy disposition. She as¬ pires to be an air hostess, and that cer¬ tainly is setting a goal in the clouds. But then, she’s a Rainbow Ci 1. Be¬ fore school she’s a frequenter of Room 7. “Marge” derives her greatest thrill from driving a car. Besides this, she likes debates, baseba ll and hockey games. Next year, she starts in train¬ ing to become a nurse, the first re¬ quirement for every air hostess. Stick to it, “Marge”, and the day will come when you can look down on the rest of us. Twenty 19 41 Frances Madden One of our valuable sportswomen, “Frannie” has participated in field hock¬ ey, basketball, and tennis and capably held down the position of manager of the Field Hockey Team. “Fran’’ hopes to get a good clerical position in the not too far future, thus earning enough money to indulge in oodles and oodles of her favorite concoction, hot fudge sundaes. Any time you’re looking for “Fran”, she can usually be found dreamily downing her favorite dish at McCann’s. Evelyn Margeson Yes sir, it’s “Evie”, the good-natured girl who is everybody’s pal. She has been a member of our Basketball Squad, and a very valuable member, too. She is one of our shorthand and typing enthusiasts, and hopes, after having a long vacation, to secure a po¬ sition as a secretary. “Evie’s” hobbies are swimming and writing notes. “Oz- zie’’ could tell us what she puts in the latter; it must be something new and different because she says she hates to listen to old stories”. Well, “Evie”, we hope that in the future you will not hear too many old stories. George Marini “Hinky” is a quiet lad (around school), but those who really know him (male and female) don’t think he’s too bashful. He is sure to be found this summer at the good old Central Street swimming hole—lounging in the sun. Or if you seek him in future win¬ ter months, remember that an ardent hockey fan is “Hink” and he can be seen playing at Eisenhaure’s pond many a day during the hockey season. He does not know what may come his way after R. H. S., but he’ll be ready for it, anyway. Edward Marshall Here’s “Ed”, the bookkeeper. He takes a “set” home on Monday, and that very night he runs up an electric light bill. When “Ed” starts some¬ thing, he can be depended upon to finish it, even if other people do both¬ er him. If you want a fellow on whom you can rely as a loyal friend—weU, here he is. “Ed’s” name will be fol¬ lowed one of these days by “C. P. A.’’ He likes to drive a Chevrolet and work in other people’s yards. This summer he’ll put a few finishing touches on the family camp—then on to study at Bry¬ ant and Stratton. Elsie Mason Having gone out in a big way for hockey and basketball, and been an enthusiastic roller skating and bowling fan, “Elsie” qualifies as one of our best athletes. As if that weren’t enough to keep one busy, “Else” is also an active member of Rainbow. She has enjoyed most the jobs she’s held at High School, and homework least. “El¬ se” has followed the Secretarial Course and her worthy ambition is to be a pri¬ vate secretary at $150 a week. Don’t forget us when we’re looking for a dime for a cup of coffee, “Else.’’ Frances McLaughlin “Frannie’s” sweet and quiet, but she gets things done. “Don’t put off ’til tomorrow what you can do today” is her formula for success. She is taking the College Course and doing all right despite the fact that she heart¬ ily dislikes homework. “Frannie’’ is a faithful member of the A Capella Choir and has been an enthusiastic entrant in tennis tournaments. This summer she will relax and divide her time among bicycle rides, tennis, and eat¬ ing apples. Then R. H. S. will see her here another year for a P. G. course. George Melanson Among your trips around school you must have seen “Boze” either work¬ ing on his bookkeeping or helping “Charlie”. “Boze’’ seems quiet until you get to know him. He has most of his fun in Room C during the fourth period for the unusual reason that no one bothers him there while he works. “Boze’s” favorite hangout is good old “Benny’s”. We’ll bet that’s where he gets half of his jokes. Office work seems to be his delight and great am¬ bition. Can’t you see his name on an office door in gold ' ' Robert Melendy Robert Melendy is one of the quiet members of our class, and when you consider a class like ours, you realize that we could use more like “Bob” sometimes. He can be in a large group of fellows and not be noticed for a while, but when he does say some¬ thing there is real meaning to what he says. His pet peeve, and it’s a “na¬ tural” for him, is listening to two wo¬ men arguing. He has enjoyed gym classes more than any others at R. H. S., and his favorite sport is baseball. Llj T wenly-one SENIOR Leslie Merrill Don ' t forget to wave when you drive past the North Reading town hall some day and glimpse a tall, red-headed fel¬ low sitting on the steps, because that will be ‘‘Red’’. Although “Red says that he has derived much pleasure from his stay at R. H. S. and particularly from the practical science and gym classes, he spends most of his noon hours down town. His grades won for him a position among the upper seventh of the Class of ' 41, and he says that he’s looking forward to finding a real job, even though for the past few sum¬ mers he seems to have had one, “down on the farm’’. Dorothie Meuse Dorothie has enjoyed “the cute boys with whiffles” more than any other feature attraction at R. H. S. Activi¬ ties in which she has been an enthu¬ siastic pa rticipant are those of our Tennis Squad and dramatic classes. Her highest ambition is to be a writer. Bing Crosby is her ideal—or possibly “Lar¬ ry —and her pet peeve is having her version of her first name misspelled. With the curiosity that all good writ¬ ers have, she has hopes of being in¬ troduced to Hitler and spending her time in Germany as his guest, trying to discover his philosophy of life and happiness. Robert Meuse When bigger (or perhaps smaller) and better radios are made, “Mousie will make them! He relishes experi¬ menting with radios and phonographs, and, like a true genius, understands fre¬ quency modulation and the like. More¬ over, he sings in A Capella Choir and plays the piano in an inimitable style. He also finds delight in drawing, par¬ ticularly at the Recreation Center art classes. His ever-ready sense of hu¬ mor is mild, but his ambitions are not: “Catfish yearns to make his second million, master figure skating, and graduate from Massachusetts Radio School with highest honors. William Morrissey “Bill”, commonly known as “Fang”, is co-author of our last will and testa¬ ment and, incidentally, a great man about town. At most dances you’ll find him playing his tenor sax, and he says that his ideal is “Tex” Beneke. Above everything else, however, Bill likes fish¬ ing and dancing with a certain redhead. He is one of the “Three Musketeers”, who made a hit tune out of McNamar¬ a’s Band. He played the part of “Greg” in the Senior Play and has been a member of Hi-Y for three years. This summer he intends to work(?), after which he will go to college. Jeanette Muse “Chick belies her nickname in that she is tall and stately. It ' s not sur¬ prising, then, that she skates so fast and so gracefully on the ice! In the summer when the ice is gone “Mousey” enjoys getting right into the water and swimming! At all times of the year there is no place like Maine and grand¬ mother’s house for “Chick”! Perhaps that’s where she takes her cute snap¬ shots. She intends to go on to school, and, although she maintains that her Practical Arts Course is pursuing her, we think she’s got it fairly well under control. Doris Nelson If you should enter someone’s office someday and the someone’s secretary started talking to you so fast you couldn’t keep up with her, it would probably be “Doesn’t-know-her-own- telephone number” Nelson. Doris joined our class two years ago, fresh from Somerville- which she still revisits frequently. The climate ’way up there in North Reading must have proved too severe for “Nelly”, because the thing she ' d most enjoy doing would be em¬ barking on a trip to the South. She expects, however, to join the job-seek¬ ers this summer. Priscilla Nichols Here’s “Pussy” of the light hair and slow giggle. Almost any afternoon we can find her with “Pudgie” or “Beans” witicizing and feeding nickels to a favorite nickelodeon. She loves steaks smothered with onions, and she speaks of her own disposition as “lousy,” but we don’t agree with her at all on that. At R. H. S. she has taken part in ten¬ nis, horseback riding, and bowling, and this year she has been a member of Student Council. “Porkie” is bound for Westbrook Junior College and a pre-medical course. Her most thrilling moment, “Going through the operat¬ ing room before it was cleaned up.” Ellsworth Noone “Ellsie” is one of a large army of practical jokers, and he has done much to lighten up the dull moments of school life. His chosen profession, however, is one-.that is neither funny nor easy. He wishes to become a cer¬ tified public accountant. His favorite sport is ice skating and he can cut some mean capers on the local rinks, where he is a familiar sight. In skat¬ ing he’s nearly as funny as he is when you meet him on the street. He will make an excellent accountant, for he has done very well with his bookkeep¬ ing. T wenty-two 19 4 1 Donald O’Brien For three years the Baseball Team has had in its midst this very capable hurler known to the boys as “Little Sir Echo’’. During his sophomore year he was a bit erratic, but in the next season he won his share of the glory and ended up with a smooth bit of twirling to beat championship Belmont. Naturally that was his most thrilling moment. “Obie” is an admirer of Bobby Bauer and knows hockey from A to Z. He says he wants to tour the country in a wheel chair, but he can probably be found for a while pumping gas, “way up north”, or acting as a store clerk. Robert Olsen “Bob” Olser. is one of the class com¬ edians. His ad-libbed remarks have certainly been appreciated by nis tel- low pupils, if not always by his teach¬ ers. He wants to be a salesman after he gets out of college. If it takes a sense of humor, a wealth of anecdote, and a ready answer for anything to sell Fuller Brushes, he ought to be the star of his company. He likes to roller skate, but complains that so far it has proved very hard on parts of him. We’re warning you—if you see Bob next fall you probably won’t recognize him, for he is toying with the tempta¬ tion to raise a beard. John O’Malley “Joe” is well known for his broad smile and happy outlook on life, and, oddly enough, nis pet peeve is serious people. He likes to tinker with radios and is anxious to obtain a good old-age pension, or, failing that, to become a bank president. “Smilsey” has been doing his best to keep up with the Col¬ lege Course and preferring United States history homework to all others. He is planning to work this summer and is undecided as to whether he will attend Boston College or Northeastern next fall. Edith Oulton “Edie” is one of the quieter members of our class, but never too quiet to greet her friends with a cheery smile and pleasant “Hello”. She is a stu¬ dent in the Practical Arts Course, and after high school her ambition is to secure a job! Her attraction seems to be in Lynn, so we think she ' ll consider first all offers from that municipality. Edie’s” principal dislike is conceited people, whom she avoids like the plague; among the things she enjoys and excels in are swimming and ten¬ nis. Marjorie Owen “Margie” shines especially in and at many sports. She skates and plays tennis beautifully and likes to swim, play soft-ball, and bowl. She loves to be a spectator at hockey, basketball, football, and baseball games. “Margie” works after school, hopes to have a summer job, and plans in the fall to go on to school and hold a position as a typist in her spare moments. The latter will seem more like play than work to “Margie”, ior typing is her most enjoyable subject and she has handled many Pioneer manuscripts ef¬ ficiently. Donna Packer Small in stature, but big in heart and broad in mind, “Red” is that good humored gal who gets along with everyone, whether she ' s managing the food booth at the Country Fair or changing partners at a dance. Her fav¬ orite pastime is dancing and you can always find her jitterbugging at lunch time and at all the school dances with the best of them. Being secretary of Tri-Hi and an active member of the Executive Board, tne Junior Woman’s Llub, and the Tennis Team, she should find her mind pretty well occupied, but her thoughts keep drifting back to a certain winter carnival and a certain fellow at New Hampton Prep. Edwin Palmer Another member of the “Three Mus¬ keteers” is “Joe”, and his home, by the way, is used as tneir club house. “Joe” says his outstanding hobby is hitch¬ hiking. Things that he has liked best at R. H. S. are Hi-Y, U. S. History classes, and school dances. This sum¬ mer he intends to work and to continue his flying lessons. His ambition is to get a private pilot’s license as soon as possible. He is loud in saying that R. H. S. is the best high school that he has ever attended. Thanks for the good word, “Joe’’, and good luck. Charlotte Parker Here’s a girl who aspires to be a dress designer or get married (she says she can cook), so which will it be? Caution : “Mel’s” her ideal. “Maisie” likes to have a good time, and we rath¬ er imagine she does, too, as she en¬ joys “drawing, swimming, Italian spa¬ ghetti, and bike riding.” She’s spent most of ber time at R. II. S. in the art classes. “Scarlet’’ lias been enrolled, however, in the Secretarial Course and intends to work this summer. i Tiventy-three SENICC Harriet Parker In the near future you may walk into some dentist’s office and see an amiable girl in a white uniform who will be Harriet, whose ambition is to be a dental assistant. Harriet would also like to be “as smart as Mr. Dix¬ on.’’ Who could go wrong on that ? “Peaches” is an active member of Rain¬ bow. Her favorite pastime is definite¬ ly sketching, and l ately she’s been to a lot of assemblies as a news reporter for Pioneer. The things she’s enjoyed least at High School are “math class and some boys”! Betty Parks Betty’s sunny disposition has been put to good use in her duties as cir¬ culation manager of the business staff of Pioneer. If making friends and in¬ fluencing people is her ambition, she’s on the road to success. She gets a kick out of everything—especially Mr. Spencer’s version of Virgil. She never gets bored, but you can make her frown—just by using certain forms of the little verb “do” incorrectly. Next year she’ll take a P. G. course, when she has hopes of finding more time for tennis and skiing. Betty wants to be a teacher and we think she’ll make an ideal one. Ruth Perley This lass has a good-natured smile and rhythm in her toes. They call her “Beans” because she goes with “Porky’’. Some day we know she’ll make a fine secretary, for that is her ambition and at R. H. S. she has been capably pursuing the Secretarial Course. Ruth has been a member of A Capella Choir and Rainbow. She likes dancing, shorthand, hamburgers, swimming and the opera—in fact, we don’t know of anything she doesn’t like. Next fall will find “Rudy” en¬ rolled at a secretarial school, but in the meantime, this summer she’ll be “having a w T onderful time”. Laverne Peterson Laverne is one of the quieter mem¬ bers of the class; one can see her every day walking over to the Junior High for practical arts, which is one of her favorite subjects. Her hobby is gardening; but her aim, to be a nurse. She likes studying scientific specimens, and her favorite food is clams—fried. Her formula for success is “Strive for what you want to do and be.’’ We think that is a fine way of expressing it. Good luck, Laverne. V. Robert Piercey • “Dub” has what might be called the true patriotic feeling. He plans to join the Navy, but there is a method be¬ hind all this: “Dub” wants to be a suc¬ cessful marine engineer and he feels that the Navy will best give him the necessary training. Our track and cross country teams will suffer a great loss when “Dub’’ leaves, since he has been outstanding in both of these sports. He just naturally has an aver¬ sion to those people he classifies as “snobs”, but hastens to add that the most enjoyable feature of R. H. S. is its student body. Stella Pollitz A perfect illustration of that rare combination, beauty and brains, is Stel¬ la. An enthusiastic student, she has rated co-salutatorian honors, and has been an outstanding member of the Class of ’41. For the first two years of our high school career she was our class president, and last year, secretary of Student Council. But that’s not all. She has still had time for basketball, committees, outstanding being the Property Committee of the Senior Play, and the Write-ups Staff of Pioneer. She is enrolled in the Classical Course and aspires to renown as a writer. After graduation she’s heading way out west for Stanford University. Mary Powell “Mare” spends most of her time that she isn’t spending on homework ( ? ) collecting dogs—of the inanimate variety. She is a product of our Sec¬ retarial Course and plans to enter busi¬ ness school after graduation to prepare for fulfillment of her ambition—to be a secretary to a president! Nothing like being ambitious, is there? “Mare’s” pet peeve is being teamed up with the “Shadow.” Now we wonder: where did anyone ever get that idea? Harris Pratt Introducing little “Whackey”! Come out from behind that bush. Oh, oh, that’s no bush; it’s a whiffle. Did you ever see “Junie” when he was angry? Well, there you are; he‘s just a plain, good natured fellow. He has a won¬ derful personality that will carry him a long way. Boy! did we miss him when he tried to take a vacation in bed before it came time, but he re¬ turned to graduate with the rest of us, and in that exclusive upper seventh bracket ”, too. His favorite subject is bookkeeping, and he’ll be one of our future C. P. A.’s. He has been one of the liveliest members of our class and one who likes school. Twenty-jour Dorothy Racine Still trying to find out who drives that Pontiac ■ Well, you ought to know by now that it’s .Dot’’. Even while she’s driving she has that smile on her face. She loves to dance also, and she patronizes the Crystal Ball¬ room quite regularly. Dot” is plan¬ ning to study hairdressing at Wilfred Academy, so this summer if you hear a knock at your door, and, upon open¬ ing it you find an attractive, dark-hair¬ ed lass smiling at you, it’ll be Dot, “working her way to Wilfred’s.” Richard Robbins For the realization of his ambition to become an engineer, “Rich” has been carefully absorbing the Scientific Course in preparation for life at North¬ eastern next year. He has been active in Band and Orchestra with his tenor sax, and has been as well, a Hi-Y member and an honor student. His favorite sports are skiing, tennis, swim¬ ming, and driving his father ' s car, usu¬ ally in the company of Paul. In ans¬ wer to our query as to his most thrill¬ ing moment-, he gave that familiar re¬ frain, “Last New Year’s Eve!” (Pos¬ sibly, in his case though, we can say definitely that it has something to do with red hair.) Virginia Roberts Chosen official Pioneer typist in September, “Ginny” was the fortunate one elected to leave our ranks early to accept a position as stenographer with the Wood and Metal Furniture Co., thereby embarking on the road to ful¬ fillment of her ambition : to become a first-class private secretary. “Gin” con¬ fides her most thrilling moment w T as going to be interviewed for the job. Anytime you’re looking for “Ginny” after working hours, she can usually be found in the Shaw’s living room. “Gin- ny’s” pet peeve is conceited people, and her friendly smile rates her as any¬ thing but conceited herself. For being an all-round good sport, “Gin” is tops! Avis Sargent If ever you get the measles, call on Avis. You’ll be O. K. in no time be¬ cause we bet she’ll enforce the doctor’s rules to the letter. Nursing is her pro- fession-to-be after she joins several of us in a P. G. course next year. She enjoys the Comprehensive Course and, as might be imagined, has particular¬ ly liked math, occupations, and chemis¬ try. Avis has been a faithful member of Chorus, but if she isn’t in school you’ll find her at home—which she lists as her favorite hangout. Whatever she does, our bet’s on Avis, for she’ll try, try again. , 19 4 1 Rita Schaffner This comely lass is one of North Reading’s gifts to the shorthand and typewriting classes. As a dancer Rita is tops and she almost admits that she would rather tap dance than eat, which is a rather rash statement coming from a young lady with a healthy appetite. Because Rita loves to swim, she is go¬ ing to spend this summer at Lake Shore Park in New Hampshire. Her fore¬ most ambition is to be a success in the business world, and toward that end she is contemplating entering a business school this fall. We envy the lucky fellow that has her for his sten¬ ographer. Constance Scharton “Connie’s” first and foremost ambi¬ tion is to graduate. After that, come what may! Plans for the future are rather indefinite as yet, but “Connie” says they wi’l probably include more school. If she gets really ambitious she threatens to go after a legal car¬ eer, which has always appealed to her. During her three years at R. H. S. she has participated in a little bit of every¬ thing, and at different intervals has been a member of the basketball and tennis teams. “Connie’s” favorite per¬ iod at school came in the middle of the day and featured lunch and plenty of dancing. Lennox Schoppelry Here is that fellow who answers to “Shop”, “Sunshine”, “Felix”, “Slippery”, “Shrubbery” or Lennie’’. Just take your choice, chums. “Shop , while grac¬ ing the halls of this institution, has been in the Band and the Rifle Club. “Sunshine” plans to become a veterin¬ arian and already has a job at an an- mal hospital, if “Felix” had a week to do as he pleased he would take a hunt¬ ing trip, hunting being his favorite sport. If his absorption in the animal world increases further, he’ll probably run a zoo on the side. “Slippery’s” ambition is to be happy and a success. Leslie Scott “Les’’ is one of the musical mem¬ bers of the Senior Class. He has lent his talents to both the Band and Or¬ chestra. He is, in addition, a good shot with a rifle, and ranks as a star per¬ former for the Rifle Club. He is en¬ tering Northeastern University next year, and says that he will be content with being a success. If he is as con¬ scientious and hard working as he has been in high school, he will climb far in the world of business. “Les” loves motor boating, so if you’re looking for him this summer, try the sparkling lakes of New Hampshire. T icenty-five SENICEI Betty Shannon If you see a symmetrical brunette bombshell flash by with a sketch book under one arm and a fashion maga¬ zine under the other, that would be none other than our Butch.’’ Butch’s” diet consists of art and more art. Next year she plans to go (of all places!) to art school, where, we are sure, she will be a great success, lor this little ray of sunshine, with her inexhaustible energy, her pleasant smile, and her genial disposition can really splash a paint brush around. Eleanor Shaw We still can’t tell the Shaw twins apart, so we can only hope that the picture opposite is “El’’. If so, allow us to introduce one of our best gig¬ glers and a sports enthusiast who is outstanding in basketball and field hockey. El’s” ambition- like her twin’s, is to be a secretary, and she is usually tied with her sister for the weekly “Queen of the Keys” honor. Her favorite subjects are, naturally, shorthand and typing. If you are ever trying to locate “El” just find “Buck’s” little black Ford and you have found her. Her pet peeve is being caught chewing gum and then having to lis¬ ten to the inevitable lecture. Evelyn Shaw This vivacious young lady plans to be something special in secretaries, and with a record like hers, plus that plea¬ sant personality, “Ev” will succeed. Her nimble flying fingers have enabled her to hold down a monopoly on the number one position in the Stroke Par¬ ade. She spends a good deal of her time typing for the teachers of R. H. S., and is even summoned to other schools for this purpose. Naturally, “Pioneer” grabbed her for its official typist. Some of her hobbies besides typing, are swimming, bowling and rol¬ ler skating. Here’s luck to a girl with plenty of pep and ambition. John Shaw Did you hear someone call for a sheriff? Here’s the man for the job: “Jackie” Shaw, better known as “Bart Jessop” of the “Through the Night’’ cast. “Jack” has also won a name for himself as an artist. With his last dol¬ lar John Shaw III (which is his title in full) would buy twenty “White Tower” hamburgers, and that’s watching out for any stomach! “Jackie” wants to be¬ come a cartoonist (of late he ' s had a chance to sharpen that wit of his as one of the quartet working on our Prophecy), but we still think he would make a fine sheriff, even if only as an avocation. David Sheldon All of us know this curly-haired cap¬ tain and star performer of our Cross- Country Team. “Shotgun” has been ac¬ tive both on this team and on the Rifle Team. His training on the former helped him to add to his laurels by winning the Reading Legion’s annual road race on April 19. His ambition is to be an aeroplane “grease monkey”, and if he had a week to do as he want¬ ed we know that he’d spend it learn¬ ing to fly. He has been pursuing the Irregular Course and he plans to con¬ tinue his education next fall 1 , after working this summer. Mary Slack Mary is one of the most pleasant and good-natured members of our class. We all know her ready smile and laugh. She plans to be a history teacher, and next fall will find her at some teach¬ ers’ college. Mary admits she loves roses, dogs, reading, cooking and fried clams. Among her antipathies are math and people who stall for time when the bell is due to ring. Mary says that “after spending three years in a certain Latin class with certain people” her disposition is “pretiy good”. Robert Spellman “Spell”, as you have, no doubt, no¬ ticed, has a definite preterence for jun¬ ior girls. (He also likes lollypops, we’ve heard, but don’t tell a soul.) Where- ever you find “Spell”, you’ll probably find “Muggsy” and Bunny”, too. (You know, “We Three”.)Among other such things, he enjoys watching Lorraine Loughlin dance—as who doesn’t—and even travels miles to see her perform¬ ance. For this loyal support, Lorraine rewards him and Muggsy” by watch¬ ing them cavort on the gridiron. Which reminds us: “Spell” was manager of football, played hockey, and now is um¬ piring baseball games. What a man! Marjorie Spindler Marjorie has already knocked off one rung of her ladder to success by holding a job as stenographer at the Wood and Metal Furniture Company before graduation. As you’ve probably guessed, “Margie’s” been a star pupil in the Secretarial Course and likes typing better than anything she’s en¬ countered so far. She has been an ac¬ tive member of the new girls’ club, Tri- Hi. “Margie” enjoys going to the beach, swimming, and fudge sundaes, so let’s hope she gets a little vacation this summer to indulge in all three. Her good disposition will be an asset to any office. Twenty-six 19 4 1 Bette Starwood Bette follows the College Course, but majors in fun. Her outstanding activi¬ ties are Rainbow, Junior Woman’s Club, skiing, golf and tennis. Keep¬ ing her man is the only job she will admit holding to date. Next year you may address her at Cushing Academy, where she will prepare for later years in college. This summer as usual she will be at Gloucester having a good time. Bette’s most thrilling moment so far was “one night on a ladder” and, just to be different again, she lists her most boring moment as New Year’s live. Her formula for success is “Have a good time, come what may”, and she seems to follow this. Jean Stan wood Mr. Kibbee’s helper—that’s Jeanie. And she punctuates her every good deed with bits of conversation. It’s art and Mr. Kibbee that have made the school hours so blight for Jean, but singing in Chorus and helping with the properties in the Senior Play must have had their attractions, too, for Jean took time to do both well. After school hours she drives her nifty beach- wagon, goes on skiing excursions, cooks, and rounds out her program by attend¬ ing Rainbow. “Jeanie” hopes to be an occupational therapist, and attending Westbrook Junior Loliege is the first stepping stone she’s taking to realize that ambition. Albert Stephanian Whenever you see a white shirt walking down the street and there doesn’t seem to be anybody in it, don’t run the other way! it’s only “Shadow”. Football, baseball, and basketball are a few of his activities, and “Shadow” has been instrumental in completing many of those long end passes that spelled a victorious season for R. H. S-, not to mention his kicking, which took the team out of tight spots. “Shad¬ ow’s” ambition is still to beat “Swifty” Titcomb in a hundred yard dash. May the fastest man win! Just at present, “Shadow” plans to go to work, but he’d like to be a professional athlete. Shirley Stevens Stevie” has the knack of enlivening any group she enters! Her jolly sense of humor is catching. Driving the fam¬ ily car never tires “Snipper ; moreover, the Riding Club, tennis, golf, and A Capella Choir have had their snare of her time. Despite all her gay ideas, Shirley can be serious and is going on to school somewhere next year. If she has a horse and a car with her, we’re sure that school will immediately be transformed into a par¬ adise. Arthur Stiles “Art” is that stocky fellow who loves to shoot. You may have seen him (the top of his head, anyway) behind the wheel of a Ford or a green Hudson. He is the co-captain of the Rifle Team and a member of the Sea Scouts. He has been hammering his way through the Practical Arts Course and intends to take a P. G. before going to the College of Forestry at Maine Univer¬ sity. “Art” should be right at home there, because his favorite sports are shooting, hunting, and camping and he hopes to be a great outdoorsman sometime in the future. Good hunt¬ ing, Art”! John Storti You’ve all heard the phrase “Did you ever see a dream walking?” Well, here’s an actual walking dream, “Bun¬ ny” Storti—see, he can open his eyes— especially when—here, here, we must be careful. “Bunny” is an unusual character, but a lot of fun. In case you ' d like to see this eighth wonder of the world, “The Walking Dream”, try picketing in front of Torre’s a brief while or just looking for Kelly. Johnny Cooney, the baseball star, is “Bunny’s” ideal, but he is pursuing the Business Course and hopes to join the ranks of the working men next year. Dorothy Stratton At 2 :30 the bell rings and “Dot” comes dashing out the door. That’s the best time of the day, hey Dot? Easily one of our best dressed co-eds, “Dot’’ just had to be among the models in the Fashion Show. She was a sophistica¬ ted lady in the Senior Play and before that one of our jumping-bean cheer leaders. Her wit and ability to put eight parts of speech in their places landed her among the authors of that censorable composition, the Class Pro¬ phecy. She’s making a scientific study of the opposite sex and she’s out to “catch a rich husband and have a good time doing it”. Donald Taylor “The Professor” is always busy with something, and doing an excellent job of it, too! He’s been captain of the Service Squad, vice-president of Hi-Y, secretary of Debating Club, and stage manager of “Through the Night”. In addition to the afore-mentioned tasks, he has been a Student Council mem¬ ber and was elected this year to the Pioneer staff. This is not all— Don”, number four on the Honor Roll, will deliver one of the Class Honors speech¬ es. Next year “The Professor” may be seen strolling along the corridors of Tufts College. T iventy-seven SENICEJ Dorothy Taylor Miss Kling will surely miss “Dot’’ next year in her shorthand class, but what will be her loss will be some business school’s gain. Unfortunately for the lads in Reading High, “Dot- tie’s” interest all resides in Camp Ed¬ wards—each and every one. If there is any one thing she dislikes, it’s to be kept waiting, and we can hardly blame her. “Dot” has found all the many activities at R. H. S. enjoyable; and as an active participant in Tri-Hi and Senior Executive Board affairs, she has found much to keep her busy. Woodbury Titcomb Z-z-zing! There goes “Woodie”, one of the fastest men on the R. H. S. Eootball Team and its co-captain dur¬ ing the best season in years. “Wood- ie’s” been treasurer of both Hi-Y and Student Council. If you should hap¬ pen to be passing through the assembly hall and a big blond fellow is in your way with a smile that floors you, that’s Woodie” of the Service Squad. His ambition is to be a successful civil en¬ gineer, and we doubt if anything will ever stop him from being one. “Swifty” is planning to enter college in Septem¬ ber, and we want to wish to a real sport with a pleasant smile and a won¬ derful personality all the luck in the world. Marjorie Tonks When “Tonksie’’ moved to Reading last fall, R. H. S. gained a wonderful personality. “Marge”, after graduat¬ ing from Syracuse University, is going to become a history teacher (lucky pu¬ pils!) and, judging from the way she recites in history class, she’ll be a tip¬ top pedagogue. Marjorie sings in Choir, plays basketball and tennis, and keeps two collections, one of unusual match-covers and the other of odd little figures of people. Her chief en¬ joyment is sleeping. Maybe that’s why she always looks so superb! Isabelle Tower In biology and chemistry she’s at her happiest, so Isabel’s choice of a nurs¬ ing profession is a wise one. She ought to keep her patients happy with her even disposition. “Izzy” has de¬ cided to make dramatics her hobby in¬ stead of her destinj ' . Let’s hope she doesn ' t forget she can act, though, be¬ cause she’s given some very polished performances with groups outside of school. This summer will find her turning her back on Reading to visit Canada. Happy landing, “Izzy”. Donald Tuttle A popular member of Reading’s great football team, naturally Tut places football at the head of his list of likes here, with U. S. History and the friends he’s made as close seconds. “Tut” has served R. H. S. as a mem¬ ber of the Service Squad and of Hi-Y. After school, when not busy with his stamp collection, he can usually be found clinging to the rafters at Boston Garden while he watches a hockey game. “Tut’s’’ going to work this sum¬ mer, but he’ll be back for a P. G. in the fall. Annabel Walker Anne is a ray of sunshine that makes brighter the days at R. H. S. She is taking the Secretarial Course and in¬ tends to go to a business college, after she rests this summer. Getting her driver’s license has thrilled her most, because that can lead to bigger and better doings. Anne goes for chewing gum in a big way, so R. H. S. must be on her blacklist in one respect, al¬ though she seems happy every time we see her. To succeed, Anne says, w ' ork hard—but not too hard. James Wallace “Wally” played guard on the Foot¬ ball Team, but is even better known for his prominence as one of the school’s top notch jitterbugs. His broad smile and splendid sense of humor have won for him many friends. “Wally’s” fav¬ orite pastimes in the summer are camp¬ ing, swimming, and caddying at dear old Meadow Brook. With his person¬ ality he should have little difficulty talking himself into a job right after graduation. The best place to find Jim” at this time of year is Lake Quannapowitt, where he has a kyak. Dorothy Walsh Those of you (if any) who expect to eat in hotel dining rooms instead of “White Tow ' ers” this summer, at some resort (especially one near Nash¬ ua, N. H.,) are apt to see a chubby, familiar face on the waitress who asks for your order. Look again, because it will probably be good-natured Dot¬ ty”. She is one of our future secre¬ taries—unless she can obtain a job as piano player in an orchestra, a position which is her real ambition. She has a very special fondness for Crystal Ball¬ room, probably because that is where she met Freddie”—from Nashua. T wenty-eight 19 4 1 Gordon Watkins Make way for a future addition to the U. S. N., for “Gordy” is charting his course definitely in the direction of Navy’s blue and gold. Besides being first-string half-back on our Football Squad, “Gordy’’ was a first class model in that ’’exclusive” fashion show. “Shorty” claims his most eventful and thrilling moment was being a member of the best football team Reading has had in twelve years. Well, he certain¬ ly did his best. All that would ever be needed to make “Shorty” satisfied, he says, is a steak dinner and Made¬ line Carroll. William Watson This quiet and unassuming young man hails from the southern part of town and is a member of the clan of Watsons, several of whom have pre¬ ceded him through this wonderful edi¬ fice of learning. Bill’’ has been study¬ ing the Comprehensive Course and plans to go to work next fall after a summer of rest. He likes to travel and doesn’t like homework. (Who does?) Bill’s” ambition is to be a success and his slogan for success is one of the best we’ve heard: “Try”. Keep it up, “Bill”! Charles Webster “Ben” is one of those ambitious fel¬ lows who are taking exams for the General Electric Apprentice School this Spring. After this he will travel the long road toward becoming an electri¬ cal engineer the hard way. Along this line he has already served as an elec¬ trician’s helper. “Charlie’s” favorite sports are skiing and bowling, but he likes the latter much more than ski¬ ing, as he claims it’s much easier on the clothes. “Ben” thinks the feminine pul¬ chritude in R. H. S. is something to rave about. Helen Wheeler Helen tells us that she has fairly lived in anticipation of lunch and home room periods, assemblies, and dances at R. H. S. Although she has impress¬ ed most of us with her quiet ways, as a dance enthusiast Helen is a regular patron of the nearby Crystal Ballroom and in addition is quite an accomplished pianist, so we are told. Ambition beck¬ ons her, however, along non-musical lines, for Helen would like nothing bet¬ ter on this earth than to be an office recep tionist, which seems, indeed, a suitable goal for her. Doris White If “Dot had her way she would sleep, eat, and go dancing all the time; “school’’ would be a word definitely not used in her vocabulary. And yet, we know she’s had fun here. She is the petite flashy brunette who’s always eager to enjoy a joke at the other fel¬ low ' s expense, but just as ready to see one on herself. A more agreeable and jovial girl cannot be found, and her keen sense of humor allows no one to spend a dull moment with her. Dot’s” ambition is two-fold : to be a good dancer and to get out of school. Well, Dot’’, half of your ambition has al¬ ready been accomplished. Donald Whitford If you hear a roar of laughter com¬ ing from any part of R. H. S-, you can bet your old moth-eaten bathing suit it’s Whit” using his wit. “Don” serv¬ ed on the Pioneer business staff for a while, but retired at the beginning of his senior year. His artistic talents are somewhat limited, yet appreciated. He can usually be seen, daubed with paint, lugging a piece of R. H. S. statuary in the direction of the attic steps. He’s ready for work this summer, and when he saves enough money he is going to invest it in the cranberry bog business at the Cape. Incidentally, if you want a really thrilling ride, let Don do the driving. Wow! Ruth Whitton This blonde damsel strolls around with a friendly greeting for everyone. “Ruthie” loves to dance, especially at the Crystal Ballroom. Some of her other hobbies are roller-skating and eating, which accounts for her enjoying the lunch period more than any other at R. H. S. She’s a Practical Arts stu¬ dent, and her ambition is three-fold: to be a salesgirl, then a buyer, and last, but not least, the owner of a gray Ford of her own. Why one of your own, Ruthie? His will get you here, there, and everywhere. Thomas Widell “Widdy” or “Tom” (he is commonly called either by the fellows) is a pretty well-known figure around R. II. S.. He managed the Football Team for two years and really got a thrill out of dancing at the various school dances. He has been studying business and hopes to work this summer. One of the noises he ' d just as soon never hear again is the well-known Edgar Davis’s laugh. “Tom’’ spends a lot of time bowling, dancing, swimming, and working hard as one of the Ecco Company’s junior executives. T wenty-nine tiri DICNEEE Vernon Williams Vernon is one member of the Debat¬ ing Club who can talk you into accept¬ ing his side of the story any time. He was voted a member of Hi-Y as soon as he moved to Reading from Everett. He has worked in a greenhouse since last summer, and it is maybe because of this training that next year he plans to go to Vermont State Agricultural College. After graduation he hopes to settle down somewhere in the hills of Vermont to life as a dairy farmer. Well, if he chews the grass as he chews gum when lie’s arguing a point, the cows will have very poor grazing! Warren Winn A good-natured fellow who likes to tell jokes is this “Windy”. He has been a member of the Soccer Team and of the Sea Scouts. “Windy” has been absorbing knowledge from the Scientific Course, and his ambition for a long time has been to enter the Coast Guard Academy, graduate from there, and enter that service. His favorite sports are hockey and sailing. His experience with the Sea Scouts has given him a good start on a nauti¬ cal career. Good luck, “Windy”, and may the seas forever be calm. Eleanor Zitzow “El’s” ambition is to travel around the world, but until her dream comes true she ' ll be satisfied with a job and a steady income. That ' s where her absorption in the shorthand and typ¬ ing of the Secretarial Course should come in handy. Lunch is her favorite period in the day, and you’ll see her with a “coke” every time you find her downtown. “El” has enjoyed the dramatics class and her portrayals in that little coterie have been many and varied. She’s been most bored during two weeks on a farm, so here’s hoping for bigger and better vacations for you, “El”, and a job in some metro¬ polis. Mary Zitzow Mary’s big ambition is to be a suc¬ cess at everything she attempts, and since her formula is to “keep trying”, we feel she ought to get there. She likes dreamy music, knitting, English, swimming, and North Reading. That’s a variety of subjects, but we can see what she means. While at high school, “Zizzy” has been following the Secre¬ tarial Coure, and has worked as a clerk and as a typist on the side. She doesn’t like dry jokes, exams, gum chewing, or waiting to graduate! This summer she’s going to work. Rest of luck, Mary! Louis Babine “The Owl” of the Senior Play, Louis is aiso remembered as one of our great little runners on the Cross Country Team. He just naturally likes to trav¬ el fast; everyone knows that his fav¬ orite topic of conversation is aviation and his flying experiences—past and future. Tailspins are this lad’s idea of fun. “Louie” has sung with the best of them in the A Capella Choir and has been a faithful member of the Service Squad. Most of us can’t miss seeing plenty of “Louie” this summer because he’s just resigned as usher at the Melrose Theater to become a cre¬ ator of ice cream goodies at Torre’s. Edward Fitzgerald “Sleepy’s” even disposition is some¬ thing to try to equal. Working days, at home nights, and playing baseball Saturdays, he devotes his day dreams to looking forward to school next fall. If his motto, “Study Hard” means anything, we can expect to see him go places. He’s already a match for any of the girls in shorthand speed and accuracy tests, and one of his jobs is part-time employment in the Copley- Plaza Hotel, no less! When you add to these facts the two interesting ones that he shows marked talent as a thumber” and ranks among our pipe smokers, you realize that lie’s a fellow ' who’s not headed for obscurity. Harry Evans A jack-of-all trades, “Horsie’’ has been already a stone-mason, truck farmer, and driver. He’s found that the girls of R. H. S. are its most di¬ verting and entertaining feature. He also likes to hunt, fish, and skate, finding plenty of time for both “up North”. His ambition is simply to suc¬ ceed, and his formula is “hard work”. It would appear that he can’t miss, for work is one thing of which “Horsie” is not afraid. We are furthermore willing to bet that that grin of his aids success in vAher lines. Maurice Fitzgerald “Fitzy” is the sunny counterpart of “Sleepy”. To be sure, he regards him¬ self as a little “nobody do nothin’ ”, but w ' e know differently. What would “Charlie” do without him? Work oc¬ cupies most of his time, but studies are squeezed in and he accomplishes his homework somehow. This sum¬ mer when not playing golf, studying, or resting at home, he is bound to be working. If the work Fitzy” now does for “Charlie” and his teachers is any indicator, we may be assured he will soon be a success. Thirty HI-Y Opening the new season, Hi-Y held an induction, at which time seven boys were admitted to the club. At this induction we were fortunate to have Mr. John H. Lehman, state Hi-Y secretary, speak to us on the sub¬ ject of the past, present, and future benefits of Hi-Y. Among the interesting speakers to follow Mr. Lehman during the year were two members of the R. H. S. fac¬ ulty: Mr. Dixon, who spoke to us twice on present-day affairs, and Mr. Bronner, who gave us an almost illus¬ trated talk (the motion picture machine refused to co¬ operate) which proved very amusing. Rev. John Drake, Glenn Davis’ uncle, attended a meeting and gave a very interesting talk on the geenral theme that “the grass is always greener in the other fellow’s yard”. The Hi-Y, being a public service club, has aided the town in three drives. At Christmas the club spon¬ sored a Christmas box, which was put outside of the office for contributions that were to be given out to the less fortunate of our town. The club also sponsored a Salvation Army Drive, which proved to be successful. For the Reading Committee for British War Relief the club helped collect door-to-door contributions for the purchase of a mobile kitchen. Included among other activities of the season were trips to the University Club for swims, attendance at a joint meeting with the Hi-Y of Malden, at which time movies were shown of the World’s Fair and of good driving, and hearty acceptance of the invitation to at¬ tend the R. 11. S. Tri-Hi induction. Several members attended the Mystic Valley Hi-Y Conference held .it Andover, when our own Joe Anderson was chosen presi¬ dent of the council. Glenn Davis, Vernon Williams, Joseph Anderson, and Donald Taylor attended the Older Boys’ Conference held in New York, and from all re¬ ports one of these worthy gentlemen met his Waterloo in the person of a “short, plump red head.” The most gala activity for the season was the climax of the year— the Spring Formal at Meadow Brook Golf Club, May 23, with Bill Partridge’s orchestra supplying the music. New officers were chosen too late for publication in “Pioneer”. The retiring dignitaries of Hi-Y for 1940- 1941 are Glenn Davis, president; Donald Taylor, vice- president; Paul Connelly, secretary; Woodbury Tit- comb, treasurer. Paul Connelly ’41 ASSEMBLIES Do you remember: that way back on December 2 the Hi Dime presented a group of motion pictures: “Crime Does Not Pay”, “A Criminal is Born”, “Ski Rhythm”, “Ice Carni¬ val”, and a travelogue of South America? that on Monday, December 16, Hi Dime presented Mer¬ ton Oberon, who spoke on aviation and used the film “Skyways and Byways” as illustration? that January 3 was the day when we saw r the colored pictures of the West, entitled “Seeing America First , for which Gilbert Camp ’40 supplied inter¬ esting comment? that Monday when the Hi Dime had as its attraction “The Scarlet Pimpernel”, with which the capacity Thirty-one PICNEEE audience was well satisfied? that da) when the Seniors gathered to hear Dr. Grover in the first of a series of vocational programs, an inspiring talk entitled “This, A Dynamic World ? that day when departing Coach Holgerson was presented with a wind-breaker jacket and a scarf to help him withstand the sea breezes of Rockport? that Monday when the Sophomores gathered to see “The City of Little Men”, showing actual scenes of life at Father Flanagan ' s famous “Boys’ Town ’, and “Flemish Folk , which showed life in Belgium be¬ fore the reecnt war? that second of the series of vocational guidance talks when Mr. Sussmann interestingly explained the four factors most necessary for successful living? that motion picture “Journalism’ ' in which we saw a newspaper at work and to which our guest, Mr. Twombly of the Chronicle, added many interesting pointers? that motion picture for boys, “Your Life Work’’, es¬ pecially pertinent to those interested in automotive industry? that assembly when the Malden W. P. A. Orchestra, un¬ der the direction of Mr. Theodore Senty, entertain¬ ed us with very fine music illustrating three forms of musical composition? that bargain day, when Hi-Dime sponsored a variety show of both educational and humorous films: “Mobilized for Mercy”, “A Review of the News of 1940 ' , “Chinook s Children”, “Old Time Movies”, and “East of Bombay”? that performance of Mr. Hans Helms, who played the violin without a violin and the trumpet without a trumpet (oh, you remember, it was done, “believe it or not , with a set of vocal chords) ? that trip we took around Cape Horn and to the Philip¬ pines via a motion picture, in accompaniment to which Mr. Struss gave a short talk on the advan¬ tages of a career in the Navy? that assembly for Seniors when Mr. Frank Tanner spoke to our definite profit on the subject “Civic Pride and Responsibility”? that on February 10, the Hi-Dime presented “Carlyn, the Magician”, who had quite a few tricks “up his sleeve”? that assembly on the subject “Choosing a Career”, with Mr. T urber, president of the Chandler Secretarial School, as our speaker? that assembly in commemoration of Lincoln’s birthday, at which Shirley Woodward, Jean Maguire and Elizabeth White read poems and the chorus sang appropriate selections? that second Lincoln Day assembly when the American Folk Singers, directed by Mr. Thomas Johnson, sang songs representing two different types of American music, negro spirituals and Stephen Fos¬ ter selections? that Hi-Dime day when we heard Frederick Pamp, a student at Harvard and an eye-witness of recent Europe? that exciting motion picture “Wheels Across India”, which showed the Snake Goddess and her daring and calm handling of a huge cobra? that day when Mr. Beckmore of New England School of Art gave a splendid talk on the possibilities of art as a vocation? that on March 12, the Chrysler Corporation presented a film entitled “Years of Progress”, which featured achievements of all the famous inventors from Archimedes to Edison? that assembly for girls when Dr. Milton D. Proctor, president of Westbrook Junior College, told of the different kinds of education and the number of junior colleges here in America? that Hi-Dime presentation, “Life With Father”, inter¬ preted by Mr. Hines as the Day family—mother, the four sons, and father? that assembly when the Seniors gained some interesting pointers from the “Job Hunters”? that picture “Army on Wheels , another film presented by Chrysler Corporation, to which we owe many thanks? that on March 20, the Sophomores witnessed a debate on the Lend Lease Bill? that picture entitled “Tracking the Sleeping Death”, of great interest to those aiming toward the field of medicine? that assembly when Miss Margaret O’Keefe of the staff of the Women’s Reformatory at Framingham spoke to our girls? that Mr. Richard Gununere of Harvard spoke to the boys on “Who Should Go to College and added that Reading High boys always come well trained? that Friday when Mr. Campbell’s dramatic class pre¬ sented a one-act play, “The Ghost of Benjamin Sweet”, directed by Phyllis Garey? that on the same day Mr. Milton J. Schlagenhauf spoke to boys interested in Northeastern University? that Hi-Dime variety show featuring three movies: “Kra- katoa”, “March of Time” and a Walt Disney “Silly Symphonie” of the grasshopper and ant fable? that Sophomore assembly on April 2 when the students enjoyed the picture “Ibis Is New England” and the short film “Central America”? Thirty-two 1941 that on April 3 Mr. Peck brought to us Miss Pierce of the Lowell State Teacher’s College and a group of singers and musicians who did a grand job oi en¬ tertaining us? that Hi-Dime film “Conquests of the Air’ , in which we saw the entire history of aviation, and the other movie, “First Century of Baseball , which pleased every boy in the audience? that on April 25th there were two movies, ‘Let’s Go Fishing (which made all want to) and “Why Not Live”? that Hi-Dime next presented a motion picture entitled “The Last Stronghold”, dealing with world events from 1914 to 1940? that charming program when Miss Joan Brown and Mr. John Nott of the Baptiste School of Ballroom Danc¬ ing demonstrated the various pointers and steps ot ballroom dancing? that on Monday, May 5, Mr. Curtis of Bates College showed a film entitled “The Mirror” and added many interesting facts about his college and its sports? that on May 8 the Juniors heard Mr. Smith of the Bor- dentown Military School, who gave a very interest¬ ing lecture on citizenship? that assembly with Miss Hazel Ganter of Wilfred Aca¬ demy, who lectured to the girls on beauty? that last Hi-Dime, a motion picture version of H. G. Wells’ story of what the future wdll bring? that our own Mr. Dixon has provided us this year with the most wonderful variety of programs that any high school students could ask for? Harriett Parker ’42 over station WEEI in conjunction with the Reading High School broadcast. At a spring assembly the Choir gave an Indian Cantata called “The Mound Builders ”, which they repeated at a meeting of the Rotary Club as a ges¬ ture of appreciation for the money lent to buy new choir robes. One of the biggest events of the year was going to Framingham to sing at the Principals’ Convention. Af¬ ter the A Capella program, which consisted of “Old Mother Goose”, “Sylvia”, “Listen to the Lambs ’, “My Pledge of Allegiance”, “Morning”, “Requiem ”, and “God is a Spirit”, everyone joined in and sang “God Bless America”, with Evelyn Comey directing. The latest journey of the group was to Hingham High School, where they took part in a repetition of the radio broad¬ cast which won R. H. S. so many favorable comments. The Reading High School Band, of which we are especially proud, has appeared more often than usual during this second-half year. It had a series of Friday concerts, appearing first on March 14 at the Junior High School, on the following Friday, March 21, at the Highland School, and on March 28 at the Pearl Street School, where its members were entertained by their audience with songs. Even though our High School Band has had only after-school time for prac¬ tice, it has made a good showing by its performances at public gatherings. It is rehearsing now for participa¬ tion in the Memorial Day Exercises and for its com¬ bined appearance with the Choir, Chorus, and Orchestra at the Music Festival with musical organizations from surrounding towns, on May 22 and 23. Barbara Jones, ’41. A MUSICAL MEMORANDA During the latter part of the school year everyone has been conscious of the splendid work of our four musical organizations, A Capella Choir, Band, Chorus, and Orchestra. Our talented musical director, Mr. Samuel A. W. Peck, has had a busy and profitable year. The orchestra and the chorus, the latter under Miss Evelyn Giles’ capable direction, have entertained us at several assemblies. The orchestra furnished the music for two plays—the Senior Play and the Teacher’s Club Play. A resume follows of the activities for this half year of our two most active musical groups, the Choir and the Band. The appearance of the A Capella Choir on January 28, with the Reading Civic Symphony Orchestra, which is also conducted by Mr. Peck, was well received. On April 11, the Choir journeyed to Boston to broadcast EXCHANGES Here we are again, folks, dazzled by the gay and attractive jackets of our many exchanges from the North, South, East, and West. Since we must get to work and make some dent in this tempting array of work, we choose to eliminate first the largest assortment—our old friends from Massachusetts. We have several copies of “The Spotlight,” received at various intervals during the season all the way from South Hadley. The humorous column entitled “The Cornfield fascinates us most as we examine “The Spot¬ light’s” pages . . . Burlington’s “Keyhole” has a poem entitled “To a Dictator , which speaks for itself and which we applaud . . . “The Focus” from Saugus has a very good literary section, hut perhaps a little more humor here and there might help . . . Beverly sent us two copies of “The Aegis , from which we quote a fav¬ orite among this year’s jokes: Thirty-three PIONEER Head Clerk: “I’m very sorry to hear of your part¬ ner ' s death. Would you like me to take his place - . ' ' Senior Partner: “Very much, if you can get the undertaker to arrange it.” We have four copies of “The Cub from Ipswich, and very interesting pages of class notes they include . .. From Walpole’s “Hill Quill , we quote this tidbit: “Julius Caesar didn ' t have a haircut for ten years. “I didn’t know he was eccentric. “He wasn’t; he was bald! “The Voice” from Concord is a monthly newspaper with many interesting articles . . . “School Life , a magazine, and “The Imprint,” a semi-monthly newspaper, come from our ambitious friends at Melrose High . . . From the seashore comes “The Clipper of Barnstable High School with an exceptionally good assortment of hu¬ mor . . . Monson Academy gives us “Monson Spirit and a clever column entitled “Brick Bats’ . . . Guv roll call from the Bay State must end with this examina¬ tion thought which “The Spotlight of Lexington has captured so well: “Backward, turn backward, 0 Time in your flight, And tell me just one thing I studied last night!” We now visit a few of the other states of the Union and even go across the Atlantic! Cleveland Heights, Ohio, has sent us several copies of “The Black and Gold , which has some very fine snapshots . . . “The Purple and White” from the state of Pennsylvania has an interesting and humorous article named “Just Dood¬ lin ' ’ and also an excellent picture of the High School Band . . . The page of Rochester, New Hampshire’s “The Red and White” which attracts us most is the one with those wonderful candid camera shots . . . Our faithful friend “The Cryptian” managed to arrive to us from England, and we are glad that a magazine of such ex¬ cellent calibre will continue to circulate and exchange in spite of war . . . Lo and behold, we have more newcomers! We are very glad to hear from all of you and hope to ex¬ change with you in the future. “The Vermont Academy Life” has an excellent literary section ... In “The Au¬ thentic from Stoneham we found an excellent snap¬ shot of the cheerleaders and football players . . . San¬ ford, Maine, gives us “The Red and White”, with a highly enjoyable “Snoop and Scoop” column . . . We are very pleased to hear from “The Lyre” from our neighboring country of Canada. We hope to hear from you again! . . . We have a newspaper from Boston Uni¬ versity which many of our students will be interested in reading. Let ' s hear from you more often! . . . We also have “The Reflector from Woburn with its snap¬ shots taken during classes ... A very fine magazine comes from Braintree, intriguingly entitled “The Warn- patuck”. The “B. H. S. Newscope” proves most inter¬ esting! . . . From Milton we have “The Unquity Echo and some very excellent snapshots . . . “The Red and Gray” from Fitchburg is an excellent magazine. We especially enjoyed the column entitled “Have you heard? . . . That’s all for now. We thank the many contribu¬ tors to this column. They have made the life of this exchange editor very interesting. “The Pioneer will see you all again next year! Barbara Blaikie, ’41. TRI-HI For the second time only, Reading High ' s infant organization, Tri-Hi, reports its activities for the “Pio¬ neer”. In spite of a pretty slim budget, Tri-Hi has managed several interesting meetings since the start of the second semester. On January 16, two of our members, “Winnie” Po¬ land and “Bea” Ruderman, began a heated debate on a seemingly harmless subject, co-ed colleges vs. wo¬ men’s colleges, which started simply enough by each of the girls reading an article in favor of her point of view. Tri-Hi is still divided into two factions, ready for battle at less than the drop of a handkerchief. January thirtieth was the night of our joint enter¬ tainment with Hi-Y. Mr. Bronner, you certaiidy held our attention, even without those movies! On Febru¬ ary 5, a large number of Tri-Hi girls, even the Seniors who anticipated the Carnival on the seventh, braved the icy waters of the Melrose Y. M. C. A. pool for an early “spring” dip. During March, Tri-Hi did its bit for the British War Relief by running a dance, with Bill Partridge’s orchestra. Despite the fact that conflicting affairs were held on the same evening, our dance was a great suc¬ cess. As far as charitable work goes, the club also found time to make scrapbooks for the veterans’ hospi¬ tal. In April, came easily one of our most interesting soirees, during which we concentrated on ourselves. Mrs. Loring Reed gave us a most interesting talk on cosmetics. Is twenty-one always your luck number, Alice? We Tri-Hi girls compliment Miss Nichols on an¬ other of her numerous achievements. R. H. S. girls have wanted and needed such a group for a long time. This year’s members and the officers—Virginia Davis, president, Elinor Abbott, vice-president, Harriet Shep- ardson, treasurer, Donna Packer, secretary, and Barbara Blaikie, chaplain—hope that future classes will appre¬ ciate its benefiting influence. May all of Tri-Hi’s fu¬ ture members take pride in this group, keep it intact, and progress to its highest goal. Donna Packer, ’41. Thirty-four 19 41 First Row Joseph Anderson Donald Dacey Vernon Williams Donald Taylor Mr. Spencer Glenn Davis John Crooker Paul Connelly Stephen Callan Russell Coombs Second Row Kenneth Anderson Bruce Putnam Robert Tucker William Morrissey Alfred Gianascol Richard Robbins Elmer Lincoln Henry Jacques Lawrence Shaw Harris Pratt Third Row Newton Dickie Robert Taylor Donald Tuttle Howard Rates Edwin Palmer Alfred Stephanian HI First Row Ann Richmond Alice Robinson Beatrice Ruderman Florence Duggan Dorothy Taylor Sonia Courossi Alice Larrabee Nancy Pratt Jean Maguire Constance Shipp Second Row Emily Hanley Donna Packer Winnifred Poland Barbara Rlaikie Lucille Gonnam Helen Poland Phyllis Barr Lucille Watts Nancy Perry Third Row Lillian Davies Ruth Amback Barbara Bird Katherine Mating Harriet Shepardson Elinor Abbott Barbara Bryant Gloria Shane Virginia Davis TRI-HI Thirty-five PIONEER SENIOR PLAY Proving that w hatever this year s senior class does they do it in a big way was the fact that they gave two major performances of their play “Through the Night , and employed two casts to do so. “Through the Night deals with the events surrounding the projected mar¬ riage of Sayre Holbrook and Gregory Stanton. Dwight Holbrook, father of Sayre, confides to Calvin Driscoll, his trusted friend and war buddy, that some valuable bonds have been stolen from his safe. Soon after this statement, Dwight is murdered. The blame is first put on “The Owl , a notorious thief who was expected to attempt to rob the roomful of wedding gifts. Another suspect is Bunny, mysterious and romantic because of his adventurous tales, and secretary to Mr. Holbrook. Sayre, Bunny, and Kay, sister of Greg, attempt to solve the murder. They finally succeed after a series of thrilling escapades, one of which is the discovery that “The Owl” is one of the other characters in disguise. Just one of the complications from the murder is Sayre s broken engagement to Greg. Naturally there’s a happy ending with the discovery that Calvin is the murderer. Sayre and Bunny discover each other, and Kay sets forth on another man-hunt. Mrs. Keefe, absent-minded socie¬ ty matron and Bart Jessop, local sheriff, lend humor to the play, while mystery is supplied by Calvin, Bun¬ ny, and “The Owl ’, not to mention the murder itself. With afternoon and evening rehearsals, suppers at the Junior High, a Saturday night performance which featured blackouts in lieu of a curtain, and Bill missing his cue because he couldn’t get into his tux, so that assorted stage hands descended upon him, dressed him in ten seconds flat, and pushed him on the stage—yes, it was exciting. We of the cast, Barbara Bryant, Mary Delano (who couldn ' t emote at the last minute because of sickness), Alfred Doughty, Herbert Grimes, Lewis Bosson, Robert Tucker, Louis Babine, John Shaw, Rob¬ ert Morrissey, Dorothy Stratton, Virginia Davis, Bar¬ bara Blaikie, Lillian Davies, Sonia Courossi, and “Woody” Titcomb, appreciate the tireless efforts of the technical staff and the valuable assistance in produc¬ ing the play of Mr. Kibbee, scenery, and Mr. Peck, mu¬ sic. The efficient technical staff was comprised of Phyllis Garey, student director, Donald Taylor, Con¬ stance Scharlon, Robert Burrows, Carolyn Lumsden, Jean Dow, Lois Ives, Albert Barmby, Robert Barrett, Helen Farr, Malcolm Johnston, Kenneth Anderson, Dor¬ othy Taylor, Florence Duggan, Phyllis Cullington, Ruth Hicks, Todd Crooker, and their committees. Boundless thanks are due to Mr. Campbell and to Miss Nichols. No doubt more than once they would have liked to abandon the whole project, but they con¬ tributed much of their time to make a success of die play, and we appreciate it very much. After a few re¬ hearsals all concerned realized that our able coach from the West, Mr. Campbell, had many tricks up his sleeve that were worth-while to note. Miss Nichols managed most efficiently the committees over which she had charge. Kay (alias Virginia Davis) DEBATING SOCIETY The Debating Society, which was organized early in the present school year, is a brand-new group at Reading High. Its founder, organizer, chief spirit, and first president was Robert Burrows. Donald Taylor was the first secretary. Under the capable direction of Mr. Russell P. Taylor of the faculty, it has staged several debates. Early in December a timely debate with the sub¬ ject “Resolved, that the President of the United States should be elected by the popular vote of the people” was conducted at assembly and received the whole-heart¬ ed approval of the school. On January 20, Glenn Davis and Robert Burrows debated for the affirmative side of the same question against a team from Stoneham High School at a joint meeting of the Reading and Stoneham Rotary Clubs. As the club progressed through the year several pri¬ vate club debates were held, within the narrow confines of the conference room, and they gave much enjoyment to the members as well as bewilderment to students in adjoining rooms. While argument was going on in Congress over the Lend-Lease bill, the club sponsored a series of debates in individual history classes on the subject “Resolved, that the Lend Lease bill should be adopted. ' After the elimination of several classes, two independent teams of history pupils debated before a sophomore assembly on the same subject. Members of the Debating Club feel that for a first year venture theirs was a very successful one. They also hope that pupils of the school in future years will con¬ tinue the work which they have started. Vernon Williams, ’41. SOPHOMORE SUMMARY Way back in September, 1940, two hundred and forty-two sophomores invaded the territory in and about Reading High School. Richard Dill and Richard Brown were elected to the respective offices of president and vice-president. Reports that Lucille Watts was to write up the class activities and that Helen Poland was to be in charge of the funds and their management were circulated and confirmed. In October the invaders made their first attack, un¬ der the guise of a sports dance. The committee chair¬ men were as follows: Donald P ease, entertainment; T hirty-six 19 41 First Row Barbara Blaikie Sonia Courossi Lewis Bosson Lillian Davies Alfred Doughty Dorothy Stratton William Morrissey Virginia Davis Second Row John Shaw Priscilla Garey Woodbury Titcomb Coach Campbell Robert Tucker Barbara Bryant SENIOR PLAY CAST First Row Albert Barmby Alfred Doughty Kenneth Anderson William Dacey Mr. Fitzgerald Donald Taylor Todd Crooker Bruce Putnam John Dagdigian Second Row Glenn Davis Francis Doughty Robert Tucker Woodbury Titcomb Robert Taylor Donald Tuttle Malcolm Johnston Albert Stephanian SERVICE SQUAD Thirty-seven EICNEEE Phyllis Barr, music; Richard Stevens, tickets; Donald Tucker, decorations; and Jean Maguire, refreshments. The net profits amounted to about fifteen dollars. (Later, in the month of April, class pins were sold, with the result that a crisp five-dollar note in profits was added to the treasury sum!) As this is being written, propaganda concerning the annual Sophomore Hop is seeping through the cor¬ ridors and classrooms of Reading High. The theme is nautical, and each room is conducting some phase of the dance. “Sailor lorn has generously donated many authentic and valuable pieces of scenery for the affair, and, according to the posters, for the first time in his¬ tory, R. 11. S. chaperons will don oilskins! The Sophomores thank their teachers for guiding them throughout their most enjoyable initial year at R. 11. S., and Miss Simon especially for her patience and enthusiasm as our class adviser. The best of luck to the departing Seniors, and to the Juniors: “See you in September!” Jean Maguire, ’43. JUNIOR DOINGS The J uniors will look back on this year as having been a year of fun and activity as well as of study. The class chose as officers to guide its destinies Ralph Herrick, president; Nancy White, vice-president; Jean Dodge, secretary; and Russell Coombs, treasurer. The big social event of the R. H. S. calendar, Jun¬ ior Prom, had an eskimo setting under the management of our class. The hard-working chairman of the com¬ mittees were as follows: Kay Maling, decorations; Rudy DeRosa, refreshments; Walter Schofield, tickets; Nancy Holcomb, publicity. The Prom was a huge success and we are sure that everyone had a good time. Plans for the Junior-Senior Reception are going ahead at a fast pace at this writing. We only hope that it will be as successful as was our Prom. Mr. Halpin, class adviser, has helped us immeasurably here with his words of wisdom and experience, as he has with numerous other problems and difficulties during the past year. To him we join in saying a grateful “Thank you! Jean Dodge, ’42. STUDENT COUNCIL Under the guidance of its popular faculty adviser, Mr. Spencer, and its officers: Glenn Davis, president, Lucille Watts, secretary, and “Woody” Titeomb, treas¬ urer, the Student Council can point to a fairly active year. It has been unanimously voted that the council next year will try to obtain more powers; to have charge of the Service Squad, activities run by pupils in the school, and bases for minor punishment. The biggest event in the history of the R. H. S. Student Council came, of course, when the convention of Eastern Division of Student Councils was held at the R. H. S. on December 14. At the annual convention our numerous committees really took over and saw that everyone had an enjoyable time. Each delegate and representative registered and then was ushered to the assembly hall, where speeches by President Davis, Mr. Sussmann, and Dr. Grover were heard. After this, several discussion groups were formed, and at inter¬ vals these exchanged pupils. The banquet held at the Baptist Church and the dancing to tunes of “Al” Gian- ascol ' s Orchestra were concluding highlights of a suc¬ cessful convention. The Council has pondered over and attempted to solve several school problems, with special emphasis having been placed on those of gum chewing and keep¬ ing R. H. S. clean. At its suggestion, and under its supervision, new records were purchased for the lunch period dances by charging one cent admission for sev¬ eral days. Many meetings were devoted to revising and bringing up-to-date the Sophomore Handbook. Lucille Watts, ’43. Thirty-eight Selections from tlie Graduation Speeches THE WAY IS OPEN! We are standing in the middle of a road! Looking ahead, we can see that the way is clear and boundless— that is the future, the direction in which we are travel¬ ling. Looking on either side of us, we may see humps that have been scuffed up, making the road difficult. Hut no matter how difficult the immediate road is, the road directly in front of us will always be smooth— unless we make it rough. Turning around and looking in back of us, we can see how others, in the seemingly hopeless circumstances of a very uneven road, have brought about great changes for the better. By straining our eyes, we can see how a young Greek, born almost four hundred years before the birth of Christ, travelled his stretch of the road. He resolved to devote himself to the ennobling of Athens, and, to make himself a fitting speaker, he practiced such exer¬ cises as shouting while running up hill and haranguing the pounding surf with his mouth full of pebbles. Thus, by dint of hard work, did this man Demosthenes be¬ come the greatest orator of ancient Greece. Very much nearer to where we are standing there begins another path. The traverser of this path was frail as a boy, but he had the ambition to become as strong and enduring as the backwoodsmen of Maine. He became, for a while, a ranchman, a deputy sheriff, a hunter, a soldier, and finally the president of the United Stales who revitalized our country—Theodore Roosevelt. As he travelled upon his stretch of the road, he made repairs. We, too, have just such opportunities of becoming truly great individuals and, alter becoming great our¬ selves, of doing great things for others. There are no reins holding us back. We can do what we will do, however great our ambitions are. Sometimes when we ponder our present situation, we rather often are dis¬ couraged. But we needn’t be, for there is still and al¬ ways the future, and the future is open, ready to be molded into a great present. The future is a challenge! Let’s accept it! Ruth Hicks, Valedictory “ARMA VIRUMQUE CANO” “Anna virumque cano”; 1 sing of arms and of a man. With such words did Virgil begin his “Aeneid ; with such words did he express the story of all man¬ kind. the story of nations and peoples. 1 sing of arms and of a man. How many nations have risen under the idea expressed in those words! Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Napoleon’s France—each of these nations gained its power by the use of arms; each believed in one-man government. That has been the song of the past: 1 sing of arms and of a man. Today we live in a world which is threatened by the domina¬ tion of another kingdom, ruled by one man. The rise of this nation is spoken of as the rise of a “New Order” —Anne Lindbergh has called it the “Wave of the Future ' . But is this new order any different from the old order of Caesar, Alexander, and Napoleon? It is the last effort of the old order to hang on in a world of changing customs and ideas. Hitler’s “New Order” is not the “Wave of the Future”. It is the wave of the past, which is fast disappearing beyond yesterday’s hori¬ zon. And what is the real new order, the new idea which must inevitably replace Virgil’s song of the past? It is the song of democracy, peace, and fellowship of man. Knowledge and thinking are the weapons of this order, and it will be of every man, of every color, race, and Thirty-nine PICNEEC creed that future generations will sing. In our news¬ papers every day we can see stories of Nazi conquest, and beside these stories are evidences of the rising way, the American way—strikes being peaceably settled, Pan- American conferences, democratic operation of govern¬ ment. The song of the past has been “Anna Virumque Cano”, 1 sing of arms and of a man; but now a new motto is facing us, this graduating class: “Where there is no vision the people fail.” We must have vision, and the voice and heart to sing the song of the future— democracy for all, peace for all—fellowship for all man¬ kind. Stella Pollitz, Salutatory ARE WE A LOST GENERATION? Many people, disillusioned by the present world chaos, would have us believe that we are a lost genera¬ tion. This pessimistic theory may well be fostered by the generation to which our parents belong, for they indeed may feel that they have been lost, and can see us in a parallel situation. But we are still another group, born in the aftermath of a world upheaval, reared in the greatest depression of all time, and steeped in the fal¬ lacies of war and its consequences. In 1914, the youth of the world had become used to security, but the first World War was to shatter their ideals and their dreams. Yet when the war was over, the victims, especially in the United States, were sure that they had won the war to end all wars, and that they had made the world “safe for democracy”; that they had something to work for; that they had something worth handing down to their children. To this genera¬ tion, scarred by war, but still optimistic, we were born. But we started school in the fall of the year that brought the greatest depression the world has ever known. We grew up with a sense of the value of money. We have never known the feeling of security and well-being that our fathers and mothers had known when they were growing up. As we, the Class of 1941, graduate from high school, the whole world is engaged in a struggle testing whether a nation dedicated to the standard of democracy can endure. Now we stand in the same place in which our parents stood twenty-five years ago. And yet it is not quite the same place because we can foresee what will happen after this war is over—the rebuilding of the nations of the world; the placing of the returned soldiers in suitable occupations; the depressions; the colossal task of balancing the nation’s budget; the strug¬ gle for existence and prosperity. We live in that great darkness which just precedes the dawn of a new world. No task will seem too great, no sacrifice too much to win that happiness which is our birthright and which has been so far denied us. Our generation is not lost—we have greater opportunities to reclaim the world than any generation before us. e have a new world to create and we shall create it, lor we know what it is all about and we have the tools with which to work. No, we are not lost; we have a challenge to meet, and we will save ourselves. Carolyn Campbell, Salutatory ARE YOU GOING TO COLLEGE? Are you going to college? You are? Have you really considered the problems which you must eventual¬ ly lace? Two possibilities confront you—the easy and the hard way. VVill you have to earn at least part of your expenses, the hard way, or will that responsibility De lilted from your shoulders? The majority of you will undoubtedly find yourselves in the former cate¬ gory; that is, you will of necessity have to travel the more difficult path—-you will be working your way through college. It is to you that I am now speaking. If you are a good student, there are numerous scholarships offered, not only by colleges and schools, but also by independent organizations. There are var¬ ious types of employment. Some students take care of furnaces, run errands, cut grass, and even tutor on the side. One problem that most of you will face is that of commuting. If you have a car, you can arrange to take a few passengers to and from school with you, and by charging a fare, you can cut transportation costs to a minimum. But perhaps you are planning to enter an out-of-state college. In that case, the best thing for you to do is find some very low-priced room in the college town or, for that matter, a room in a co-operative room¬ ing and boarding house, where students live together, hire a housekeeper, and share all the expenses. When you choose a college, be original. Ghoose your own college, and establish your own reputation. r e sure that the college has a large library, faculty mem¬ bers who have at least their master’s degree, an extreme¬ ly small number of student instructors, and modern up- to-date buildings and equipment. Immediately after registering at college, you’ll find that a completely new life has begun for you. You have put away your childish notions and have become a man. Each year should find you a better master of yourself a.id any situation which might arise. You are the ones who must necessarily face the task of rebuilding this world from its present chaotic condition. Donald Taylor, Class Honors. Forty OUR HERITAGE Today, as perhaps never before, we appreciate the heritage handed us by our Colonial forefathers. To them, we, as Americans, are indebted for establishing the foundation of our great democracy. We remember these early Americans as great statesmen, soldiers, and pa¬ triots, but we sometimes fail to recognize them as of the common people. Their lives were moulded by cus¬ toms vastily different from ours, but in reality these cus¬ toms are the very deriviation of our way of life. Many eminent authorities on hygiene and educa¬ tion write volumes on the care of children. The eight¬ eenth century also had its own theories, which were pub¬ lished in almanacs. In one such article under the title “Easy Rearing of Children ' the anonymous writer urges that as soon as boys can walk alone, they should go without hats for the purpose of hardening their scalps, and if possible, as soon as they have any hair they should sleep without nightcaps. Many old-fash¬ ioned theories seem needless and silly, but similar problems worry mothers of today. We can sympathize with Doctor Byles, who lived on Tremont St. in Boston, and who complained to the authorities about the sorry condition of his street, to no avail. At times the deep mud made the street almost impassable. One day Dr. Byles saw two selectmen try¬ ing to extricate their chaise from the mire. He ap¬ proached them, bowed, and said politely, “Well, gent¬ lemen, I am glad to see you are stirring in this matter at last.” Governor Winthrop, according to the rule of the day, felt very strongly against any great amount of learning for girls. He attributed the loss of reason of the wife of the Hartford governor to her “meddling in such things as are proper for men, whose minds are stronger.” We have learned from many of their mis¬ taken notions. Many doctors in colonial days who were treating a patient for deafness made a juice of garden daisy roots and poured drops of it into the good ear, having turned the bad ear down. Many other problems of our forefathers’ lives, having been modified through the years, extend into our lives in varying degrees. We honestly owe them thanks for our American way of life. Carolyn Lumsden, Class Honors. - — 1941 WHERE THERE IS NO VISION THE PEOPLE PERISH Europe in the Dark Ages was a continent beset by disease, swept by famine, and battered by the elements. The feudal system was in full sway: lords exercised power of life or death over their servants, and the nobles and the clerk continually fought over the fruits of the labor of the lower class. Few had vision then, and that is why those people lived under the yoke of tyranny. Then came the glowing tales of the New World. Seeking an escape from oppression, the Pilgrims came here to set up a free democratic goverment—a govern¬ ment under which they would have freedom of speech, of press, and of worship. They built our nation with vision. From the coming of the Pilgrim to the passing of the pony express, vision was the keynote of progress. When the arms of imperialism tried to crush us, we rose and in 1776 threw off the cloak of tyranny, for we knew that those were not our colors. We adopted instead the red of the brave, the blue of the just, and the white of the pure. Our Flag became the symbol of a free, united people, and the banner of democracy. Today, we the graduating class of 1941 realize all this. We realize that we possess a heritage that is un¬ equalled, unparalleled. We realize when we see the Flag floating over our schools and our churches, that we have something here that no other people have. We realize that our heritage is something to be cherished and protected, if need be, with our lives. We realize that America is the world’s best hope, that here we have the best opportunity to keep and enjoy our inalienable rights —life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We know that our forefathers had vision, and we know that we must have the same vision if we as a na¬ tion are to maintain our position in the world. We pray that never again may our towns have to raise mon¬ uments commemorating our part in any war—unless it be a war on social misery and corruption, a war on cancer and tuberculosis. We must keep the wheels of democratic government turning and hold the torchlight of democracy to the world so that others may see our good works and realize that here is a nation which is peaceful and contented, a nation not founded on the theory that might makes right, but rather upon the fact that it is the meek that shall inherit the kingdom of God. Robert Burrows, Faculty Honors. Forty-one PIONEER SENIOR BANQUET SPEECHES CLASS HISTORY Sophomore-Junior Years, 1938-1940 Three years ago we quaked and trembled before the venerable brick walls of this mighty institution of higher learning. We trembled and quaked when we entered it; what lay before us, no one knew. Yea, we quaked and trembled during that first week until the whole building must have shook, but nothing fatal hap¬ pened, so we rolled off the cliff of fear and into the chasm of work and routine. During that first week we found Room Two on the third floor, and the office proved to be in the gym, but we did learn one fact— namely that Miss Simon was our class adviser. Many, in their bewilderment, made good use of her friendly counsel, and to their advantage. In December our political fire-works started, cli¬ maxing in the class election of Sophomore officers. The victors were Stella Pollitz, president; Robert Eisen- haure, vice-president; Lillian Davies, secretary; and Robert Taylor, treasurer. These four proved so efficient and satisfactory that a “return engagement” was de¬ manded of them, and they served us during both our Sophomore and Junior years. The election smoke had scarcely cleared when we got our first real taste of mid¬ year exams. “Cramming” is too mild a term for what we did in preparation; we literally ate those texts. May¬ be, if we had been wise we wouldn’t have done that, for we should have known that R. H. S., over-crowded and long-suffering, would try to keep us for only three years, anyway! But it was fun to stand in front of the Honor Roll (since abolished) to see if we had beaten our pals—generally, we hadn’t. Every cloud has its silver lining, and our reward for burning so much midnight oil was to be our Sopho¬ more Hop and, of course, our debut into the social whirl of Reading High. The toxin from these midyears proved too much, however, and when we held the dance, many rechristened it the “Sophomore Flop.” Just the same, our decorations were good and so were tfie re¬ freshments (?). We thought wed get our chance to gloat when the Seniors decided to stage a Fair, but much to our feigned dismay, they put it over and, of course, we patronized it. The Junior Prom that yea was the first really good dance at Reading High that we poked our heads into; in fact that was our idea of an excellent dance. The Seniors and Juniors grew ver chummy after this social highlight and held several private ones of their own. June arrived and none too soon for us either; we were eager for adulthood like theirs. The Seniors graduated early, and the Juniors stepped into their shoes, and at last we were Juniors and feeling very proud of ourselves, indeed. When September rolled around, we started in on the poor Sophomores, since the Seniors were slightly too superior to pay any attention to the rest of us. t his year we found Mr. Halpin a very helpful adviser, but we left him in peace until later in the year, because by now we felt that we were completely familiar wiih R. H. S. The first half of our year as Juniors was rou¬ tine stuff, but when we returned in January, the old Study nail was gone! Instead, there was a newly reno¬ vated room that we could scarcely recognize, with table- desks all in neat rows. The place had gone modern, stream-lined, and we heartily concurred that it was about time. Classes that follow ours will never know what untold discomfort we endured in that old hall. The highlight of the 1939-1940 season next in sig¬ nificance was the role our class played in R. H. S. sports. The football season wasn’t anything to brag about but we found some top-notch players who were destined for star berths in the victorious following year. In fact, more than half of that squad were Juniors—“Spike” Davis, “Jimmy” Bain, “Bunny” Storti, “Al” Stephanian, “Muggsy” Kelly, and “Mac” Johnston, “Woody” Tit- comb, “Don” Dacey, and “Gordy” Watkins. And we found a good runner for the track team in our Junior Class, one “Dave” Sheldon. Our Junior girls did equally as well. Starring as all-round athletes were Jean Dow r , “Dot” Arnett, Barbara Bryant, Florence Duggan, Sonia Courossi, Dorothy Stratton, and Elsie Mason. Then came that day in early April, 1940, when during the sixth period we smelled smoke, heard the clanging of the fire bell, and filed out, bearing our lunches and other items which we wanted to salvage. With hoses ready for the flames, our dauntless Reading firemen marched into R. H. S., and, having done their duty by one paper chute, marched right out again. The building received a thorough fumigation as a result oi the experience, but we missed not one period. In May, the dancing season arrived again. The Sophomores held theirs and, yes, it was much better than ours had been. We, in our turn, held a Junior Prom that turned out to be a success. Then we gave our Junior-Senior Reception. Nobody in our class will ever forget the huge, glass-mirror ball or the “wishing well.” By this time the Seniors were ready to leave and on Class Day, as we stepped into their places, ours at last was that delicious feeling of seniority. Our Service Squad at this time took over their regular duties and some were razzed beyond all tolerance, but they saw Forty-two 19 4 1 First Row Jeanette Reed Elva Buckley Carmen Simon Mary Devaney Svea Kling Helen Stanwood Second Row Barbara Carpenter Alice Hayden Elizabeth Batchelder Alberta Drury Helen Zimmerman WOMEN FACULTY MEMBERS First Row Frederick Pope Euke Halpin Rudolf Sussmann Imrie Dixon Joseph Fitzgerald Robert Campbell Second Row Henry Ingersoll Russell Taylor Arthur Radvilas Phillip Althoff Arthur Spencer Herman Wheeler Robert Bronner MEN FACULTY MEMBERS Forty-three PIONEER their duty and kept up until school closed. At last, finals came and with one accord we closed our books and went on a vacation from which we were to return as the upper classmen. Albert Barmby Senior Year, 1940-1941 Well, well, at long last, we the Sophomores of ’37 were found eligible by the powers that be for that high¬ est of high positions—that of Seniors in Reading High School. Realizing that this would be our last chance to prove ourselves in this venerable institution, we start¬ ed off, full speed, under the guidance of our over¬ worked, but willing class adviser, Miss Nichols, and with the help of “Spike Davis, “Bob Tucker, “Lil Davies, and “Bob” Taylor, our capable class officers. In sports we made our highest mark in football, with the total of six games won, two tied, and only two lost—the best season for R. H. S. in years. Thus our broad-shouldered gridiron fighters dispelled completely the gloom of early predictors. A band of vivacious cheerleaders is an asset to any game, and ours was no exception this year. Those nifty new uniforms weren’t all that caught the eye as one contemplated that octette— the girls themselves weren ' t hard to look at. Remember how cute the representatives of our class in that select coterie—-“Duggan ’, “Dot”, Sonia, “Lil”, and “Edie” looked all dressed up that early fall dance? The high¬ light of the football season was that benefit perform¬ ance at the Reading Theatre. At this time, the football enthusiasts of the town and school were able to com¬ pensate those boys on the team, whose slogan for many a month had been “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy—and a good football player”. Yes, there was many a Friday night when a large number of the fair sex missed the company of their usual escorts at the local dances. ’T ' will ever be thus! How are the sweaters, boys? November, 1940, was a month well worth remem¬ bering, for it was during this time that the roots of a girls’ club, Tri-Hi, became firmly implanted at R. H. S., with M iss Nichols as its competent adviser. Offi¬ cers elected from our class were the enthusiastic “Ginny” Davis as president, Donna Packer as secretary, and Bar¬ bara Blaikie as chaplain. Round about Christmas time, many of us were busy keej ing up with all of the formats. First came the dance sponsored by DeMolay, then our own Junior Prom, and finally the Junior Woman’s Club affair—with all our jitterbugs having a hard time dancing true to form in evening gowns and tuxes. During the last of November and through Decem¬ ber, the cast for “Through the Night” diligently re¬ hearsed under the directorship of Mr. Campbell. And on January tenth and eleventh our class play was pro¬ nounced a huge success. Those of us who were lucky enough to be there on both the tenth and the eleventh will no doubt hold that, of the two performances, the latter was more hilarious, because of the curtain which broke at the end of Act I. Will you ever forget how ihe members of the props committee crept across the stage during those partial blackouts? Ladders, janitors, and even Mr. Campbell were much in evidence during scene changes. And none other than “Sheriff Jessop” we be¬ lieve was the cause of “Bunny’s” hysterics! “Goffs Falls, here we come! Ah, who can forget Senior Carnival? What in the world happened that we should have been so lucky as to have good weather and no postponement? No gray hairs were added to Mr. 1 itzgerald’s head by the Class of ’41! Most of us bit the snow that day, but anyway it was certainly wed worth it, and that meal to end all meals more than com¬ pensated for any discomforts we suffered. Following the Carnival, came the Mid-Winter Frolic. Boy, or boy, did we high schoolers go for the Congo! And didn’t the team look dapper in their cos¬ tumes? Ha! As signs of spring became even more evi¬ dent, Senior Class meetings came into their own. The Senior Fair, held to obtain money for our class gift, was one memorably successful event concocted therein, and further meetings during April and May finally set¬ tled what the boys would wear for graduation. We recollect these months pleasurably, also, because of the Sophomore Hop and the Hi-Y formal. Graduation week flew by at much too great a speed, and before we had a chance to adjust ourselves to the idea, we were thrown out into the cold, cold, world—at our tender age! The ironic part of it is that we our¬ selves were the cause of this outrage because of our passing grades. Oh, to be sophomores again in the fall of ’37! Why, if we tried very hard, we think we could even get used to rotary traffic. Donna Packer CLASS WILL In order to show our appreciation, and never let it be said that we neglected our duty, we, the Class of 1941, do hereby bequeath certain tokens of affection to some of our dear classmates and a few of our beloved teach¬ ers. 1. To I odd Crooker we leave this genuine pig bank in order that he may start saving his pennies tow¬ ard a little newer model car. 2. We bequeath this beautiful blue all-worsted suit to Kenny Anderson so that it never can be said that the Class of 1941 fc rsook one of its classmates in a time of need. 3. Io Jimmie Bain we leave these specially-de¬ signed air-cooled shoes for his jitterbugging. Forty-four 19 41 4. To Herbie Grimes we give thi s book of ten easy lessons on “How to Play the Trombone ’, with only one request, that he study it faithfully. 5. To the Shaw twins we bequeath this giant-sized package of their favorite chewing gum to guard against the calamity of their ever being out of it. 6. To M iss Kling we leave this handsome mantle- piece to be used as a table after her strenuous adventures on Firefly. 7. To Lillian Davies and Virginia Davis we pre¬ sent this box of slugs in order that their pastime of play¬ ing the jute boxes will not prove to be such a strain on their pocketbooks. 8. In appreciation for a wonderful series of pro¬ grams, to Mr. Dixon we leave one ten-cent piece for which he will have to make no plea in behalf of Hi- Dime. 9. To Alex Clapperton we leave this old news¬ paper to fill up some of the cracks in his car, thereby making it a little more watertight and, incidentally, a little less noisy. 10. To Charlie Berglund we solemnly dedicate this Pioneer joke—to see if something won’t erase just once his perpetual grin. 11. To Robert Burrows we give this spot of bear grease in order that he may have no trouble in the future in keeping that pesky bunch of hair on top of his head down during his heated debates. 12. To Miss Drury we bequeath this ink eradica- tor. We know that between her first and second year bookkeeping classes, she is always out of it. 13. To “Spike Davis we bequeath this woolen muffler, as a preventive measure against pneumonia, to be used on his nightly excursions in the beach wagon. 14. Because Bob always said that collecting dues was harder than pulling teeth, we leave these dental forceps to our class treasurer, Robert Taylor, to make future operations less painful. 15. To one of our more fickle playboys, Lewie Bosson, we leave this beautiful doll. We hope that she will prove satisfactory and Lewis will prove faithful. 16. To “Howie’ Lander we give this “Book of Fashion’ ' which explains in great detail how the well- dressed young man’s clothes are “hanging” this season. 17. To “Pussy” Nichols we leave just this one thought: one-way streets usually allow vehicles to go only one way. Another time you might not find such a good-natured cop waiting for you. 18. In order that Roger Caron may be a genuine “Harvard man”, we wish him well on his way with this beautiful, specially-built, sport model pipe and a can of Reading ' s best tobacco. 19. To “A1 Doughty, in order that he may never again be in need of fuel for his car, we leave this two- ton truck-load of soft coal. 20. To Robert Tucker we give this book on “How to Speak Spanish in Five Easy Lessons” or “How o Lose Friends and Nauseate People”—to help him when he finally goes to South America. 21. To Mr. Fitzgerald, we leave these six lessons with Madame La Zonga so that he can take the rough edges off his conga. 22. To Miss Devaney, we present this rolling pin, to be used for cooking purposes or for any other inci¬ dental occasion which might arise. 23. To “Chet” Gunn we bequeath this thrilling book of spine-chilling, blood-curdling, mystery stories in order that he further educate himself in his favorite occupation, the writing of murder thrillers. 24. To Jackie Shaw, who immortalized the words “leave the body lay” as the tobacco-chewing sheriff of the Senior Play, we leave this beautiful tin badge. 25. To Miss Nichols we award this gold-plated medal for heroism because of the way she kept working to make our Fair a success even when she was practi¬ cally out on her feet—and for assuming the duties of adviser to the Class of ’41 in the first place, knowing us all as she does. 26. To the Class of 1942, we leave just this one hope, that you will prove to live up to the shining ex¬ ample set by this, the Class of 1941. 27. To the entire Class of 1941, and to all the members of the faculty, we give our sincere best wishes for a happy and successful future. So endeth the last will and testament of the Class of 1941. We hope the recipients of these gifts are prop¬ erly impressed and will treat them with the respect due them. As we have no doubt depleted whatever treasury we ever had and have nothing else to offer we’ll just say “Goodbye, now.” Barbara Bryant William Morrissey CLASS PROPHECY After vagabonding around the world for ten years or more, always searching for fresh inspiration for my syndicated comic strip, I had at length run completely out of inspiration. It was then that I decided that the time had come to return to Reading and take a look at what the Class of ’41 had done to the old home town. And so it was that one bright spring morning, with high expectations, I boarded the north-bound local in Boston (which, by the way, had changed considerably for the better with beautiful, streamlined buildings) and settled myself comfortably ( if such a thing is possible) in the car seat. As 1 had sauntered through the good old North Station, I had invested in one purchase. I withdrew it now from my pocket— it was a copy of the “Reading Forty-five - C LII3 PIONEER I ' Blah ’. Eagerly 1 settled myself to a perusal of its pages. The banner headline, two inches high, with the by-line of Editor Carolyn Campbell, read. “Police Chief Edgar Davis Proclaims Reading Anti-Dog Day. Well, right away 1 got suspicious. Was dear old Reading really going, as 1 had feared, to the dogs? Dismissing such a horrible thought from my mind, I went on to the next item in the paper, which had been penned by scribe Esther Doucette. Lawyer Glenn Davis was defending officer Alex Dissel against a charge of sabotage. It seems that Dissel, while on duty one night, had switched the colored lenses in the traffic signals. The article hinted that with one Davis as police chief and another Davis as a good shyster, there won’t be any more dismissals from the police force. The headline in the lower left-hand corner bore this fearful title: “Reading Practically Burned to the Ground. The account related that while fires blazed away, Fire Chief Donald Whitford was out with the ladder truck practicing his aerial acrobatic act for the Doucette Brothers’ Circus. You remember the Dou¬ cettes—Edward, Ernest, and Gerald? In letters not quite so high, but no less a significant item, was the shocking news that “Bosson’s Beer Barrel”, the largest and most prominent business establishment on Main Street, having been continually lit up by neon lights and loyal patrons, was “raided last night by officers Gerald Colford, Harris Pratt, Ellsworth Noone, and strong man Frank Fisher.” Those taken into custody were Lewis Bosson, proprietor; Howie Lander, barten¬ der, and, at the time, corked more than the bottles; Ginny Davis and Sonia Courossi, beauteous and notor¬ ious hostesses; the orchestra, if, I mused, they dare call it that, consisting of “Alfalfa Bill” Morrissey, “Hayseed Clarence Fraughton, and “Mad-as-a-hatter” Kenny Anderson. “Ah, me, how r those words bring back the old days,” I mused, and then turned to the comic page, where I read my favorite comic strip, naturally written by one John Shaw. I had just noted that the household page was edited by Muriel Evans and Dot Fleming when, with a tremendous screeching and grinding of metal and hissing of steam, the train stopped. Home at last! Yes, there leaning horizontally against the side¬ walk was cab driver good old “Joe” O’Malley. As I descended from the train, over there, in his shiny new Model T, was Hizzoner Mayor Charles Eversharp Berg- lund. His chauffeur, Alex Clapperton, clicked his heels in my direction and waved me toward the car. I was cordially invited by Hizzoner, who evidently waited there permanently to greet tourists with that famous, friendly smile, to accompany him on a tour of the town, and so it was that after thirty minutes of tinkering with the two-cylinder motor, and finally discovering the trouble to be due to a lack of gas, which we replenished at the Piercey, Brooks, Marshall, Hubbard, and Dagdi- gian Brothers Super DeLuxe Colossal Service Station (with every five gallons of gas, you automatically be¬ come a joint partner)—yes, after that we finally started —slowly at first. Gradually, though, the old chariot worked itself up to a moderate fifteen mile per hour pace. We putted up Haven Street, and right away my attention was called to a flashy window, over which was a sign which read “Dotty Arnette’s Sport ShopIn no less flashy letters at the bottom of the si gn w as the signature of that promi¬ nent artist about town, Arthur Knapp. We decided to get out and look around and, responding to the concen¬ trated effort of dragging our feet on the road, the car slid to a stop. Employed in Dotty’s shop and doing a terrific job of slinking around were Dorothy Cress and Jeanette Callan, models. The efficient artistic and sales staff was composed of Barbara Blaikie, Marguerite Bro- phy, Charlotte Parker, Alma MacDonald, and Helen Gadbois. Since this mob scene occupied every available chair, we decided not to linger here. Leaving Miss Arnett’s lively little establishment, we sallied forth into the sunlight and saw a snappy little “number” hanging out the door of the neighbor¬ ing “Gertie’s Beauty Saloon”. That little mispelling, Hizzoner explained, was due to the faulty brush of one Lois Ives. We know, though, that you’re wondering about the snappy little number. Well, she was none other than Gert Dahlquist herself. Busily rushing around inside the shoppe there was found her charm¬ ing assistant, Connie Carder. Having been attracted inside by the possibilities of finding some of our old classmates, we were far from disappointed. Gert pointed out several of her customers. Outstanding among them was Shirley Bussell under a dryer. She, Gert informed me, was the wife of the prominent Bobby Van Jones, who made his millions when he struck oil in North Reading. Over in the corner were Thelma Currell and Dorothy Meuse, sifting the town dirt, of which there appeared to be no shortage. Since we were in the vicinity of the Thirty-third National Bank we decided to see who was running it, and to our surprise the big bronze doors swung back to disclose Don Dacey and A1 Doughty behind execu¬ tive desks. Barbara Bryant and Gene Baker were their very efficient secretaries. In cages were Robert Burrows and Herb Kenney, auditing the books and finally ad¬ mitting that the place was going bankrupt. Pounding typewriters in the office of the bank were Mildred Faulk¬ ner, Mary Flynn, and Evelyn Margeson. As we rounded the familiar corner into the square we almost ran down Bob Tucker, who was sweeping the streets and still yelling “You can’t keep a good man down—I 11 get to South America yet.” Mayor Berg- lund had promised me a surprise, and after turning the Forty-six = 19 4 1 First Row Florence Duggan Second Row Lillian Davies Nancy White Dorothy Stratton Sonia Courossi lleverly Buckler Alice Robinson Edith Kimball CHEER LEADERS 11 r lJ Vm i|p5 , .1 1} aHM 49 ■ X ' i , % aRCVJ . _ - i ' pit First Row Bette Ellis Second Row Natalie Cutcliffe Lillian Lowell Jean Cleary Third Row Barbara Nielson Gloria Olsen Eunice McCabe Adelle Sargent BATON SQUAD Furty-seven PIONEER wheel fifty feet hack, Alex piloted us around the corner into Pleasant Street. As if it were being staged for our benefit, we heard the sound of whining sirens, and a fire truck tore out of the fire-station. Tom Widell was holding her on the road, while Charlie Webster was madly turning the rear wheel in his efforts to follow Tom. Then like a rocket Arthur Stiles came ripping along the asphalt as he grabbed for the last rung of the ladder, his hat in hand, one rubber boot on. After this commotion had subsided, we sped along at twenty-two miles per hour toward Lake Quanna- powitt. Nearing its sparkling waters, we heard the tremendous report of huge super lady-fingers, which shook off our left and only surviving fender. Hizzoner informed us that these were the secret maneuvers of the Reading Navy. As we expressed surprise at this start¬ ling development, we circled the last curve. ‘‘Thank goodness we ' re here!” I sighed to myself while busily uncrossing my fingers. Yes, there on the shining waters lay the fleet of the Reading Department of U. S. Defense: six rowboats and one life-preserver. Standing in the bow T of the flagship was Admiral Sir Wilbur Nelson Cail, flanked by his stalwart crew of Fran Doughty, Robert Loud, and John Hamilton. We got out to inspect the base. Near our elbow, working feverishly in his new sailor-suit, George Bren¬ nan was diligently scrubbing the pride and joy of the base—the life preserver. Behind him, on the lower deck of row boat No. 2, stood Richard Robbins, Leslie Scott, and George Marini, swabbing the decks. Sure enough, the fleet had just completed maneuvers, which had consisted of changing the site of the rowboats from the west banks of the lake to the east banks. Rowing madly to keep in position were Ed Logan and Maurice and Ed Fitzgerald, and I spotted, among the naval mach¬ inists standing at attention in the bow, Orlando Ames, Leslie Merrill, and Albert Barmby. Their chief job, it appeared, was tighening oar-locks and patching worn- out rowboats. At the shore of the lake, on the recently drained swamp land (which was still rather damp), was situa¬ ted the new airport. Suspended over the airdrome in a blimp was Ed Ford, observing the weather. Just land¬ ing in his winged bi-plane, pedal propelled, was ace pilot Louis Babine, and right behind him loomed his hell-d ivers, Raul Connelly, Bob Barrett, Edwin Palmer and, still a speck on the horizon, Elmer Lincoln. As soon as the squadron had landed, our gaze was again attracted to the sky by the sight of a silver streak of metal. The new r airliner came soaring down from the heavens and glided to an abrupt stop, throwing the passengers and crew out of the windows and through the door. Guess who they were! The hostesses I recog¬ nized as Ethel Greenyer, Evelyn MacGleod, and Mar¬ jorie MacCleod. Three hostesses! Yes, the depression is over. Pilot Vernon Williams and co-pilot “Windy” Winn were dusting themselves off. Among notable pas¬ sengers I spied Edith Kimball, well-known New York model, and Don Hitchcock, South American playboy. Suddenly there was heard the screech of brakes and Stephen Doucette dismounted from a large black hearse, wringing his hands and croaking hoarsely, “Leave the bodies lay. Leavin ' Stephen to his grue¬ some business we continued our tour of the airport. Behind the hangars we noticed Donald Douglass, Rob¬ ert Eisenhaure and Harry Evans, all intent over the problem of a broken rear axle on a baby carriage. Standing patiently by, a twin in each arm, stood Flossie Duggan. Having decided that we ' d seen everything there, we zoomed back to Reading Square. Alex parked the car on the common and got out to listen to an arm- waving harangue by Mike Hennessy. Between inter¬ ludes of advocating sundry “isms”, Mike was doing his best to sell a jiffy can opener to an interested circle of neighborhood women, among whom were Grace Bailey, that famous advocate of home-cooked food, and Avis Sargent, the noted head of the local radio studio’s cooking school. We elbowed our way through the crowd and entered the town hall. Hizzoner took me around and introduced me to the town officials, but not before Robert Melendy had nearly bowled us over as he rushed out the door with a net in his hand. I don’t know yet whether his object was a dog or a wife. The town attorney, Con¬ nie Scharton, was involved in a big case of the town of Reading vs. Alden Heath—for biting all the tips off Hizzoner’s cigars. Marjorie Tonks and Mary Slack were arguing bitterly in an ante-room, and 1 was in¬ formed that they were rival candidates for selectmen. Incidentally, I chanced to look out a window as we started upstairs ,and whom did I see over in the ceme¬ tery but Tom Jacob, its sole surviving trustee! “Yes,” I reflected, “that is a fitting job for him, as the poor lad was always half dead, anyway, from overwork.” The head of the Bureau of Old Age Assistance was found to be William Watson. Behind the next door we discovered the Board of Private Welfare—headed by James Wallace, who sat with secretaries Marjorie Spind- ler and Jean Stan wood perched on his knees. The town clerk proved to be none other than that well known citizen about town, “Chippy” Burbine, while in a nice shiny office sat the Soldiers’ Relief Agent, Betty Stan- wood. Loud voices at the end of the corridor drew us to a meeting of the Finance Committee, the president of which was yelling for order. Newton Dickie, for it was he, was getting no attention from his worthy associates, Malcolm Johnston and Robert Taylor, who were trying to appropriate a goodly sum for a new sidewalk, the Forty-eight First Row Betty Parks Ruth Hicks Frances Wheeler Evelyn Shaw Claire Johnson Carolyn Campbell Carolyn Lumsden Lillian Davies Alice Robinson Beatrice Ruderman Winnifred Poland Second Row Barbara Blaikie Lucille Gonnam Barbara Davis Ruth Shumaker Elinor Abbott Jean Dow Lois Ives Jean Maguire Marjorie Webster Elizabeth White Miss Devaney Third Row Otis Anderson Sherman Stone Leslie Scott Donald Taylor Stanley Stembridge Glenn Davis Lewis Bosson Donald Pease Kenneth Anderson PIONEER BOARD A CAPELLA CHOIR First Row Bette Ellis Phyllis Lacey Frances Redmond Elsie Lindquist Winnifred Poland Helen Dahlquist Kathleen Wright Evelyn Comey Priscilla Proctor Second Row Nancy Holcomb Mary Bronk Eva Bruce Beatrice Ruderman Dorothy Doherty Alice Robinson Rita LeFnve Frances Wheeler Shirley Stevens Third Row Barbara Jones Esther Frotten Frances McLaughlin Gertrude Dahlquist Marjorie Tonks Janet Dwight Barbara Merritt Jean Danforth Fourth Row Harold Holmes Seigfried Pfeiffer Roland Dewhurst Crawford Reed Joseph Anderson Warren Martin Robert Meuse Fifth Row William Morrissey John Mentus Robert Durney Gordon Mills Mr. Peck Forty-nine PIONEER catch being that each wanted it to go in front of his own house. Shrill feminine voices clashed with mascu¬ line ones in the next room, where Priscilla Nichols, Betty Parks, and Jeanette Muse were holding forth as the Board of Appeal. Appealing to them, as if it would do any good, were George Melanson and Donald Tay¬ lor, both gentlemen being down on their knees demand¬ ing that more money be appropriated for shovels with built-in seats for the boys on the W. P. A. I was beginning to worry about the status of muni¬ cipal affairs when Mayor Charles called to my attention the fine record of the school physician, Lennox Schop- pelry, graduate of an accredited dog hospital, and of bis efficient nurse, Phyllis Cullington, who have never more than nine out of ten students on the absence list at any one time. And so, with my doubts pacified, we emerged from the town building and walked across the common just in time to see Roger Caron before he left on a two year trek to North Reading with the shout, “There’s gold in them thar hills.” Poor Roger, he can t forget that filling he lost up there! Traveling with him for company, certainly for nothing else, was Jimmie Bain, the mad scientist, returning to his lair to experi¬ ment on a new cure for the “mornin’ after”. Hizzoner and I rejoined Alex and putted down to the Washington Street ball park, where a big game was in progress, featuring as pitchers Kelly vs. O’Brien. Asleep on first base was “Bunny” Storti. Heading into the dust to snag a grounder was Jack Collins, while “Blaekie” Stephanian was engaged in that lowly act of stealing bases, one of which could be seen protruding from his back pocket. Bobby Spellman was just visible way out in left field—picking daisies. “Slugger” Tit- comb was at bat, while bat boy Gordie Watkins at¬ tempted manfully to push the feminine admirers back so Titcomb could find room to swing! Playing backstop was, 1 noted, that dynamic personality, “Dodie” Carder! We whipped over to the tennis courts. Playing at tennis were Jean Dow and Richard Higgins vs. Dot Stratton and Chet Gunn—all professionals now. Our attention was called from them only by the excited bab¬ bling of human voices, and we noticed some girls in¬ dulging in a so-called game of field hockey. The Read¬ ing team, we learned, is the champion team of the state because of the stellar playing of the famous Arsenault girls, Eileen, Anna, and Stella. Edith Oulten, Doris Nelson, and Marjorie Owen had also become players of special note. The next sound to attract us was the splashing of water in the pool. There was Doris Dunn, that famous personality of Gilly Nose’s Grand Aquacade, here for the day to instruct Reading’s younger generation in the art of aquatic manipulations. That streak of lightning that went slinking by, intercepting (darn it) our view of Doris, was none other than the world renowned track star, Dave Sheldon, winner of cup after cup and medal after medal. By now the sun was setting on the distant horizon, and our stomachs reminded us that it was dinner time. The mayor kindly invited me to his house, and after a delicious repast we decided that we should take in a movie at the new Reading Palace Theatre. The feature attraction was the world premiere of a picture entitled “Away With the Breeze”, starring Herbert Grimes as Rat Bustler and Barbara Bird as Red 0 Hare, the ex¬ travaganza having been conceived as well as directed b William Friedlander. Gowns had been created by Betty Shannon and Helen Farr. An added attraction on the program was a vaude¬ ville show of home grown talent. As the curtain parted again, there were two pianos—a beautiful baby grand and an old moth-box. A hush fell over the audience as Robert Meuse crossed to the grand piano, sat down, rolled up his sleeves, raised his hands above the keys, and then gave out with a sizzling, original, boogie-woo¬ gie concoction. Amid thunderous applause, he an¬ nounced that he had been so inspired during a night¬ mare caused by eating too much cheese and apple cider on a visit to Bosson’s beer parlor. At the conclusion of maestro Meuse’s composition, Mary Bronk entered from the opposite side, seated herself at the old moth- box, and played, as it had never been played before, Rachmaninoff’s symphony in G minor. The show went on, and vivacious Phyllis Lacey, the yodelin ' cowgal, gave a rendition of “Carry Me Back to the Old Prairie”, the latest cowboy hit, accom¬ panied by Barbara Jones at the piano. Mary Delano then appeared on the stage and gave a pantomime that brought the house right down. At last the famous Read¬ ing Sockettes came out, and Mayor Charles awoke with a start to give them his delighted attention. Among the dancers were those local cuties, Frances Madden, Mar¬ jorie Batchelder, and Elsie Mason. During the intermission, as they do in the better Boston theatres, Virginia Roberts, Norma Doran, Patri¬ cia Donegan, and Rita Schaffner from the Sockettes were passing among the audience. We followed them out and into the spacious lounge, which had been designed by Harriett Parker, and here I read on a poster that none other than Phyllis Garey was responsible for all stage settings. Back we raced at the conclusion of intermission and we were just in time for the next act, a quartet consist¬ ing of Lil Davies, who has taken the spotlight from Schiaparelli, Jean Danforth, a noted club woman, Caro¬ lyn Lumsden, who now is a famous concert pianist, and Shirley Stevens, who had arranged a little number to suit their varied talents. My, my, they did harmonize beautifully. Then the spotlight moved to the end of the stage and out tapped the dynamic Shaw twins, stage, Fifty 19 4 1 First Row Jacqueline Campbell Elinor Abbott William Morrissey Paul Connelly Clarence Fraughton Alfred Doughty Barbara Jones Lawrence Doucette Richard Griffin Crawford Reed Lorraine Laughlin Second Row Russell Gunn Reverly Brooks Barry Arnold Richard Robbins Laura Hamm Russell Ralston Lawrence Shaw Melvin Lane Elbridge Corliss Third Row Russell Carter George Arnold Charles Carroll Gordon Mills Beverly Pitman Helen LeFave Walter Rowell Richard Condon Alan Hodges FOOTBALL TEAM READING HIGH SCHOOL BAND First Row John Collins William Dacey Glenn Davis James Bain John Kdly Joseph Carder Woodbury Titcomb John Crooker Gordon Watkins Alfred Stephanian Rudolf DeRosa Second Row Coach Holgerson Coach Ingersoll Ralph Frotten Robert Anderson Malcolm Johnston Thomas Hubbard Bruce Putnam John Storti Harry Taylor James Wallace Joseph Collins Third Row Charles Webster Donald Sletterink Howard Bates Bernard Correlle George Fennelly Michael Stephanian Stephen Callan Newton Dickie Fourth Row Leonard Greene Donald O’Brien Herbert MacLeod Michael Toomey Joseph Anderson Edgar Upton George LeFave John Carney John Dagdigian Back Row Managers Henry Collins Edgar Davis Richard Marston Robert Cail Fifty-one PIONEER screen, and radio stars. They contented themselves with taking several bows, the terms of their contract not hav¬ ing been sufficiently flattering to their great reputations. The house lights came on and the show was over. As we rose to leave, we noticed some of the personali¬ ties of the day in the audience. Putting on her ermine w rap behind us was the famous model Marilyn Edwards. With her was the postmaster general of the United States, Maynard Batchelder. Out in the lobby, photo¬ graphers Ruth Whitton and Donald Tuttle of the Read¬ ing “Blah” had their hands full getting all the famous faces. We stood near them and looked for more familiar people. Among the first to be snapped was the famous com¬ mercial artist who does all the illustrations for leading magazines, Betty Gullam. Close behind her came Ruth Hicks and Stella Pollitz, two noted writers. Beverly Johnson and Dorothy Jeanes were caught stealing past the camera men and were asked how such two famous radio stars could go unnoticed. Ruth Perley and Donna Packer came next and both posed willingly, being familiar with the quest for news themselves because they are both famous foreign correspondents who have just returned together from Brazil. Leaving the theater we followed the crowd to the famous “Greasy Spoon”, under the management of the Zilzow sisters, Mary and Eleanor. Sitting at the table next to us was that famous radio comedian Robert Ol¬ sen, accompanied by Dorothy Taylor and Mildred Ben¬ nett, his sponsors who manufacture that all purpose cold-cream which can be used to lubricate one’s car as well as to produce flaky pastry or, if one really insists, that “skin like birch-bark”. Annabel Walker was the featured blues singer for the evening, and Dorothv White and Helen Wheeler were very outstanding as a dance team. We had to dash madly from the cafe and down to the station, where I just grabbed the last milk-train to Boston. Leaning out of the cab was engineer Todd Grooker, who held a stop watch on me while I made a pretty speech of thanks and farewell to Hizzoner. Then the train lurched, pitched, and roared out of the station, on time because Todd was in the habit of keeping his dates. As I waved farewell to my home town I noticed some of my admirers, with their noses fairly glued to the car window. Among them were Barbara Clark, Laverne Peterson, Mary Powell, and Isabelle Tower, leaders of the “Affiliated Mothers’ Clubs of Massachu¬ setts”, as 1 could see by the banners across their chests. They were evidently waiting their chance to cross the tracks toward home after a vital business meeting. 1 settled myself in the car seat once more and watched the scenery slip by. But not long could I rest in peace, for across the aisle were Dorothy Racine, Dorothy Walsh, Frances McLaughlin and Barbara Jen¬ kins, discussing the latest fashions of Harper’s Bazaar. They were evidently career girls from Boston, who had come out to the old home town to see some real excite¬ ment for a change, even as 1 had myself. Evelyn For¬ tier and Esther b rotten were just ahead or me, eacn holding a sleeping child. 1 gathered from their taik thai they were entering the little darlings in a state-wide ‘ ' healthy-baby contest the next morning and were de¬ termined to get their applicants in first. Ethel Johnson, looking very glamorous, was the only oilier passenger in the car. 1 learned irom the combined comments oi the ladies across the aisle and in front oi me that sue was now manager of her own beauty salon at the biggesi hotel in Boston. as 1 rode on my last mile into Boston on my last two cents, 1 sat back and meditated on my days ex¬ perience in the old home town. 1 rejected that little oru rreading tlmves and lives as neatly and serenely as any modern iown in this promised land or in any that 1 huu met in my travels, and that 1 had been sumciently in¬ spired to continue my comic strip at breaxneck speed ror ai least the next ten years. John Shaw Dorothy Stratton Lois Ives Kenneth Anderson CLASS ELECTIONS Girl Florence Duggan Barbara Bird Helen Farr Edith Kimball Jean Dow Constance Carder Florence Duggan Ruth Hicks cai oiyn Lumsden oetty Shannon e.etty Shannon etty Stanwood wuth Hicks Kuth Hicks Beverly Johnson Title Most Popular Best Looking Best Dressed cutest Best Athlete uest Dancer Most Personality Most Ambitious Most Versatile Wittiest CLass Blown Teacher s Bane ' teachers s Delight Most Likely to Succeed Most Likely to Boy Wiliam Dacey Woodbury Titcomb Donald Hitchcock Robert Tucker Albert Stephanian James Bain William Dacey Robert Burrows Glenn Davis Alexander Dissel Alexander Dissel Alexander Dissel Robert Burrows Robe.t Burrows Richard Higgins Mary Bronk Mary Delano Pnyilis Cullington Soma Courossi Doioti.y Stratton Shaw Twins arolyn Lumsden Cois Ives Ruth Hicks Wed First Best Natured Most Serious Glass Giggler most Flirtatious Most Sophisticated Gum L hewer Class Couple No. 1 Class Couple No. 2 Most Scholarly Continued on page seventy George Brennan Robert Burrows jchn O’Malley Robert ' iuckei Donaid Hitchcock Fiank Fisher Malcolm Johnston William Dacey Robert Burrows three Fifty-two BASKETBALL The Beading High Basketball Team surprised its capable coach, Mr. Althoff, who wasn’t expecting another championship so soon, by starting the season off very successfully with three straight wins and their pictures over a write-up in the Boston Herald, but the boys just couldn’t carry through in the pinches. They had three opportunities handed them to take over the undisputed lead of the Middlesex League, but failed each time. The future looked bright for our team when they rolled over Stoneham, Winchester, and edged out a pros¬ pective first place team, Lexington, by one point. Even after losing to Melrose (not a league game) and Bel¬ mont in close fought games, it seemed that Reading stili had a chance, because the team pushed down Lexing¬ ton and had a field day against Stoneham. A large gathering of tense fans attended the next game on the card, because the local lads w r ent to Wake¬ field and if they w ' on that game they could be on top again, Belmont having just dropped a game to Winches¬ ter. Instead of glory it was all a sad story, though; the Reading team lost this game. To add to their woes, they were destined to lose the last four league games, to finish in fourth place, after having lost their third shot at first place. The lettermen were composed of an inexperienced group of five seniors and one junior: A. Stephanian, J. Slorti, R. Anderson, J. Bain, G. Davis, and W. Cail. The summary for the season follows: 26 Stoneham 22 33 Winchester 27 22 Lexington 21 17 Melrose 19 14 Belmont 19 23 Lexington 19 44 Stoneham 30 14 Winchester 37 28 Middlesex School 25 33 Alumni 34 24 Belmont 34 23 Wakefield 37 Glenn Davis, ’41. BASEBALL The baseball squad opened its doors to the 1941 season with a new coach, Mr. Arthur Radvilas. Mr. Radvilas made good as assistant at his most recent coaching post at Stoughton High, where in his younger days, before his sports career at Columbia University, he starred as a three letter man. A large squad re¬ ported for practice, but it soon dwindled down as of yore to the ambitious lads of the first and second teams. Among this group, there were seven veterans, five Sen¬ iors and two Juniors. Although not a large group, it gave the team a small back bone that was to expand as the season advanced until our boys were the cham¬ pions of the League! The pitching staff was made up chiefly of young and coming material in Anderson, Twomey and Col- ford, with the main stay who got all tough assignments being the renow med “Obie” O’Brien. Besides being a great pitcher, “Donny” is also very dangerous in the batter’s box, as his home run against Lexington proved. “Obie” had pitched all but two innings out of a possible forty-five and had been credited with four wins and no losses, as this magazine went to press. At the far side of the plate this season was an am¬ bitious sophomore, George Fennelly. George is really a fighter and is a natural in every sport. He works hard and is always going up, as his batter’s average now is well over .500. More successful games are looked for with “Fenn” behind the plate. “Jack” Collins has guarded first base once more and his ability is outstand¬ ing. “Jack” is a great sportsman and when he steps to the plate, the sunfielders move back automatically. “Jack” has represented Reading High well by his slug¬ ging, fielding, and great love of the sport. “Woodie” Titcomb was moved from the outfield to patrol around the keystone sack, where he teamed w ith “Speed” Steph¬ anian, at short, to make up a fast combination. Both have had their share of base hits and “Blackie” is once more in the batters ' column of honor. Incidentally, “Blackie” has speeded up—he now rounds the bases in a quick twenty seconds (two seconds faster than last year). Fifty-three PIONEER At third base a young Junior was assigned the job of handling the first ones and managed very well. “Har¬ ry Irons has plenty of fight and a willingness to work, as has been shown by his nice pickups and fast throws. In left field was to be seen our one and only, our sleepy “Bunny” Storti, whose dependable fielding and accur¬ ate throws have held many runners to a minimum of ex¬ tra bases. “Bunny” has acquired his fame mostly as a “hunter” and has been successful many times in plays and sacrifice hits. Our slugging center fielder has been Ralph Frotten, who manages perfect fielding and many seemingly impossible catches. Ralph has robbed, really robbed, many opposing teams of base hits, and his great¬ est thrill is diving for a fast ball to put neatly in his pocket and walk home. Our sunfield this year has been occupied by many varied personalities, in the forms ot “Bob” Anderson, “Al” Colford, Gerald Colford, and “Wrinkle” Kelley. Each of these boys has what it takes and is battling for a berth with true competitive spirit. “Wrinkle” continues to perform in the locker rooms, and he is an expert first base coach. Our second team came along fast and had only one defeat in its three game competition with the first team. Crooker is expected for big things with his strong arm, along with other rookies such as Brown, Beaumont, Shaw, Stephanian, Gallant, and “Joe” Collins. If the boys continue to co-operate and play hard during the remaining games a possible championship is in sight. Our schedule is as follows: Reading at Winchester — Lost, 4-1 Reading at Lexington — Won, 16-9 Reading at Belmont — Won, 6-1 Stoneham at Reading — Won, 6-5 Winchester at Reading — Won 11-7 Reading at Maynard — Won, 14-10 Belmont at Reading — Won 11-5 Reading at Stoneham Maynard at Reading W. C. Titcomb, ’41 TENNIS Coach AlthofTs tennis team got off to a flying start this year by winning its first two matches and by having the largest squad in recent years: Captain Chet Gunn, Steve Callan, Bob Perry, Bob Sanson, Joe Pendergast, Sherman Stone, Andy Moores, Dick Bowser, Bob Bing¬ ham, Phil Burbine, Dick Dill, Dick Stevens, Don Pease, Dave Dow, Bob Cooper, Dana Alward, Harley Towle, and Bob Parker. The first match was played on May 6 at the local courts, the verdict being Reading 4, Wakefield 4. The second match, also at Birch Meadow, came on May 9, and Reading downed Stoneham 4-1. The third match, our first defeat, was played at Danvers May 12, on grav¬ el courts. Although our boys played the best game that they could, we were edged out by the score of Danvers 3, Reading 2. A list of the remaining matches, scores of which you may fill in your selves, follows: Thursday, May 15 Tuesday, May 20 Thursday, May 22 Monday, May 26 First week in June at Stoneham at Wakefield Vermont Academy Danvers Belmont Interscholastics Our team this year probably is the youngest team in the league, as we have only one senior. Although our boys are more inexperienced than other schools, we ex¬ pect to finish out the season with but one defeat and are waiting to play Danvers on our own courts. Keep your eyes on next year’s squad! Chester Gunn, ’41. GOLF At the time of this writing the golf team has played six matches, four of them having been at Meadow ' Brook. The first match was played at Malden, with Malden emerging victorious by a slim 5-4 margin. The next match did little to cheer the team, which suffered its worst defeat, 9-0 against Wakefield. Then came a journey to Melrose, which resulted only in a 8 1-2 to 1-2 setback on a wet course. The boys from Stoneham came over to Reading then and brought a 6 1-2 to 2 1-2 defeat. During the same week Saugus arrived at the local links and departed with an 8 1-2 to 1-2 victory. But R. H. S. next played Malden in a return match which result¬ ed in victory, the final score being 6-3! This year our golf team was organized under the capable leadership of a new faculty coach, Mr. Robert Bronner. Appreciation is certainly due him for his encouragement, and to the Meadow Brook Green’s Com¬ mittee for allowing us the use of its course. And this year the golf team has enjoyed the unique distinction of having two girl members, “Ginny” Davis and Bette Stanwood. The remainder of the team consists of “Pinky” Higgins, Alden Heath, Bill Lander, and Herb MacLeod, with Kenneth Bushway and “Pete” Benton as trusty subs. Alden Heath, ’41. RIDING CLUB After several attempts to get together with the wea¬ therman, the Riding Club, reorganized to include boys and two new r “coaches”, embarked upon its spring car¬ eer at Pine Banks in Melrose. Coach Ingersoll had charge of the hoys, who included Lennox Sehoppelry, Ken Anderson, Newton Dickie, Orlando Ames, Don Baisley, Bob Durney, Robert Bingham, Lewis Bosson, and Howard Bates, and also of one of the girl’s groups, which met on Thursday afternoons and which, for ob- Fifty-four 19 4 1 First Row William Brennan Richard Jleaumont John Hegarty Kenneth Castine Robert Beaumont Alfred Colford Robert Dagdigian Paul Quinlan Michael Stephanian Second Row Ralph Frotten John Crooker Donald O’Brien John Storti John Kelly Walter Gallant Michael Toomey Lawrence Shaw Third Row Richard Webster Alfred Stephanian Robert Anderson Richard Brown Harry Irons Woodbury Titcomb Gerald Colford John Collins George Fennelly Coach Radvilas my. ft Yi n v « r ;£ v i , ’ | ll r V1 iff . i ' i BASEBALL TEAM First Row David Littlefield E’mer Lincoln Roland Dewhurst Warren Winn Robert Perry Gerald Colford Bolic Schultz Second Row Donald Baisley Martin Shapiro Gerald Brooks Steven Miller Third Row Clifford Toussaint Phillip Burbine Michael Ilennessy Leonard Rose Fourth Row Charles Cummings Henry Jacques Harris Pratt Robert Bowser Walter Schofield Fifth Row Coach Althoff SOCCER TEAM Fifty-five PIONEER vious reasons had a large enrollment. The first session of the latter, on May 8, saw the following girls in at¬ tendance: Ann Schaeffer, Barbara Glover, Dorothy Beas¬ ley, Nancy White, Pat Gray, Ann Richmond, Gloria Shane, Eleanor Williams, Martha Spaulding, Beverly Buckler, Joanne Davis, Jean Gleason, Ruth Shumaker, Beverly Pitman, “Bea” Ruderman, Nancy Holcomb, and Alice Robinson. What with Martha Spaulding procur¬ ing a horse that exactly matched her reddish-gold tress¬ es, Gloria Shane doctoring a sprained ankle with an odiferous “hoss linament, and an other maiden winding up the afternoon wearing her sweater in a most unusual place—their first session was an exciting one, we hear. The other girls’ group was chaperoned by the pop¬ ular Miss Barbara Carpenter and met on Friday after¬ noons. This group was composed mostly of senior “vet¬ erans” cavorting around Pine Banks. These included Priscilla Nichols, Carolyn Lumsden, Barbara Bryant, Jean Dow, Edie Kimball, Ginnie Davis, Shirley Stev¬ ens, Shirley Bussell, Dottie Cress, Lois Ives, Connie Scharton, Bette Shannon, Lillian Davies, Jane Veazie, and Natalie Gray. Their first meeting took place on May 9, when a minor catastrophe initiated them into the club: Lois Ives, riding a steed with the gentle sounding title of “Moondust , fell off her mount, much to Miss Carpenter’s consternation. Lois is long since on the road to recovery. Priscilla Nichols, ’41. RIFLE CLUB The members of the Rifle Club are anxiously wait¬ ing the completing of the new range at the Pearl St. School. This range will have more ports than the range being used at present and therefore more members can shoot at the same time. Glenn Hodson, ’43. TENNIS Well, at last Spring was really here, and all the girls were excited when finally the tennis play-off tour¬ nament was in full swing. Because Miss Nichols al¬ ways gets very enthusiastic response to her announce¬ ment of try-outs for the team itself, it took a consider¬ able period of time to narrow the huge field of candi¬ dates down to the girls’ first team: Claire Johnson (first singles), Marjorie Webster (second singles), Edith Kim¬ ball (third singles), Jean Danforth and Stella Pollitz, Lucille Gonnam and Evelyn Greenleaf, and Lillian Dav¬ ies and Dorothy Stratton (doubles combinations). The weatherman proved unreasonable and play-offs took so long that we are unable to report here any of the matches. The team had high hopes as the “Pioneer went to press of making a good showing this year at the Belmont Tournament. If all you tennis enthusiasts expect to get a court you ' d better go down after supper instead of during the afternoon now, because we re afraid the girls will have a monopoly of the courts, at least on the days when the boys haven’t got there first. Jean Danforth, ’41. 1 he R. II. S. Rifle Club has just completed a very successful season. Mr. Russell Taylor, the director, arranged some very fine matches. One of the biggest reasons for the club’s success has been “Mike” Hig¬ gins, the coach, who is a fine marksman himself and who has done an excellent job of developing inexperienced members into sharp-shooters. “Mike” has also let the club use his excellent target rifle, which is responsible for many high scores. The rifle team won four out of seven matches. Among the team members who have shot at most of the matches, Marcella Hayes, a former member of the Malden rifle team, has the highest average; Arthur Styles, the other co-captain, follows close behind Marcel¬ la with steady high scores. Phyllis Springford, who has advanced the farthest in her scoring and who also won the medal for high scorer of the Reading Team at the Beverly Junior Rifle Event, is a promising feminine marksman. Margaret Gharles and Frances Wheeler are among the others in the ten highest. Jean Gleason, Ele¬ anor Williams, and Marion Langiell are other girls who are improving at each practice session. Of the boys, Arthur Bancroft, Leslie Scott, Bert Howe, David Shel¬ don, and Glenn Hodson all have a position in the top ten. BASKETBALL Miss Nichols’ annual call for basketball players was answered enthusiastically by a large number of girls. Among those staying the entire season were these Seniors: Sonia Courossi, Dorothy Arnett, Jean Dow, Esther Frotten, Florence Duggan, Edith Kimball, El¬ sie Mason, Gene Baker, and Marjorie Tonks. Juniors destined to become part of the regular squad includ¬ ed Alma Towle, Barbara Merritt, Claire Johnson, Elinor Abbott, Frances Wheeler, Patricia Lane, Katherine Mal- ing, Barbara Glover, Beverly Buckler, Harriett Camp, and Jean Dodge. Sophomores who stood faithfully by throughout the season were Helen Poland, Helen Dahl- quist, Carolyn Foster, Patricia Gray, Lucille Watts, Edith Manter, Phyllis Barr, Nancy Perry, Nancy Pratt, Margaret Ives, Maybelle Gaw, Barbara Normine, Althea Crilley, Betty Hoffer, and Gertrude Doucette. The Seniors had a very good season this year in spite of numerous bruises and limps contracted mid¬ season at their carnival. Reports for the entire season reveal a loss of only one game. The Juniors came through losing only two, while the Sophomores got in some good practice, anyway! The first game of the season furnished the girls Fifty-six 1941 Coach Bronner Richard Higgins William Lander Virginia Davis Kenneth Bushway Alden Heath Betty Stanwood Lennox Schoppelry Ralph Gibson 1 GOLF TEAM First Row Robert Bingham Robert Sansom David Dow Chester Gunn Stephen Callan Robert Cooper I Jonald Pease Sherman Stone Second Row Robert Bowser Harley Towle Richard Dill Coach AlthotT Richard Stevens Andrew Moores Robert Parker Joseph Pendergrast BOYS’ TENNIS TEAM Fi jty-seven PICNEER First Row Carolyn Campbell Priscilla Nichols Marjorie Webster Jean Dodge Nancy White Ruth Hicks Phyllis Harr Margaret I vers Helen Poland Patricia Gray SECOND ROW Ethel Greenyer Russell Coombs John Crooker Glenn Davis Donald Taylor Donald Pease Robert Sansom Lucille Watts Third Row Ralph Herrick Woodbury Titcomb M r. Spencer Richard Stevens David Dow STUDENT COUNCIL w ith an encouraging start, because Reading won all three games from Lexington: Seniors, 30-15; Juniors 18-13; and Sophomores, 22-13. The second game was with Swampscott, and although not so happy an occasion for the Sophomores, who lost by one basket, was victor¬ ious for Seniors and Juniors. The score of the evening for the Seniors was 20-11; Juniors, 21-11; and Sopho¬ mores, 11-13. In the next game the Seniors won from Melrose 21-17 to make up for the beating they took last year. The Juniors and Sophomores didn ' t do so well, thei r scores being Juniors, 15-46; Sophomores, 0-28. Then came that old unbeatable enemy, Arlington. The jinx held sway again and Reading lost all three games, this time Seniors, 12-29; Juniors, 15-20; and Sophomores, 3-26. Nevertheless this was the Senior’s first and last defeat of the season, and a resolute gang boarded the bus for the next game, with Swampscott. This proved well worth seeing. Senior Carnival injur¬ ies had taken their toll and because the Seniors were short a few players, Barbara Bryant exchanged her usual position for that of forward. Nobody except those who saw it can imagine how funny that game was. The Swampscott team did a lot of wondering. Our Seniors and Juniors won, 25-21, and 42-27, while the Sophomores were again defeated, 18 - 25. The last game of the season was with Wakefield, whom we succeeded in defeating, so that the season for Reading was capped victoriously for all three Reading teams; Seniors, 34-14, Juniors 35-6, and Sophomores 21-15. Everyone wants to thank Miss Nichols for her patient help and to leave her our best wishes for con¬ tinued success with her teams. We hope that next year she will have a squad as good as the Seniors were this year. Elsie Mason, ’41. Fifty-eight 19 41 First Row John Storti Robert Anderson James Bain Glenn Davis Albert Stephanian Wilbur Cail George Marchetti Donald Tucker Second Row Richard Dill Walter Schofield Stanley Hrynowsky George Doucette John Griffin James Robinson Ernest Doucette Coach Althoff Kenneth Gray Third Row Richard Webster William Lander William Conron Michael Twomey David Dow Frank Brennan George Fennelly Edward Fitzgerald BASKETBALL TEAM First Row Marion Langiell Phyllis Springford Frances Wheeler Arthur Stiles Coach Higgins Marcella Hayes Jean Gleason Elinor Williams Margaret Charles Second Row Arthur Bancroft Lennox Schoppelry Ralph Gibson Coach Taylor Bert Howe David Sheldon Paul Scott Leslie Scott Glenn Hodson RIFLE TEAM Fifty-nine CINEMA QUIPS “Victory” “Too Many Girls ’ “Sailor s Lady” “Go West” “Gone With the Wind” “Tobacco Road” “This Thing Called Love” “Three Cheers for the Irish “Blonde Inspiration” “Come Live With Me” “Glamour for Sale” “Little Men ’ “Escape to Glory ’ “Ziegfield Girl “Stout-hearted Men” “The Awful Truth” “She Couldn’t Say No” “The Long Voyage Home “Give Us Wings” “Ed” Palmer and Ruth Hicks Reading Bette Stanwood Stella Pollitz Mr. Kibbee’s Hair From the Boiler Room Carolyn and Mac O’Malley, O’Brien, Zitzow “Edie” Kimball “Bev” and “Pinky” Martha Spaulding Messieurs Ingersoll and Dacey Graduation Lorraine Loughlin Football Squad Report Cards ???????? “The Mad Doctor” “Arise, my Love” “The Letter” “The Very Thought of You” “Fantasia” “Dawn Patrol” “The Villain Still Pursued Her’ “Behind the News” “Down Argentine Way” “Petticoat Politics” “Tall, Dark, and Handsome” “The Road Back” North Reading Gang “Lou” Babine “Ken” Anderson Doughty’s car Deficiencies Homework Ellsworth Noone “Farmer” Dickie H. Bates - J. Dwight Pioneer Board Miss Ernst Tri-Hi Mr. Spencer P. G’s. Virginia Davis ’41 WISHFUL THINKING, OR A PAGE FROM A DIARY IN THE YEAR 2000 My soundless alarm clock had to hit me on the head and give me a good shake this morning to awaken me. 1 pushed the third button on the wall at the right of my bed; the windows closed, the shades went up, and my room began to get warm. My, when one is seventy- seven years old and not so “chipper” as of yore, such newfangled ideas certainly help! As I sat up, I dis¬ covered that the temperature must have dropped, for the blanket on the foot of my bed had been moved up over me by the automatic machine that l had installed last week for that purpose. After I had dressed and my electric tooth and hair brushes had finished their matutinal tasks, I pul on my in isible eye glasses, stepped onto the escalator, and went down to the first lloor, where I selected a pink pill, two green ones, and, not being very hungry, only half of an orange one for my breakfast. Suddenly, my telephone chimes began to play. Answering their summons, I saw r immediately in my television receiver that it was none other than my co- chairman of our Reading School Board. She said that her rocket ship was out of uranium so that we should have to use mine or walk if we were going to visit our old alma mater, Reading High School. My husband had planned to fly to Paris on a business trip, so we decided to walk. As I opened the huge front door of my dusty rose plastic house, I grabbed the air mail letter from the mail order house containing my son Algernon ' s home¬ work for that day. Jamming it angrily into the far re¬ cesses of my purse, I joined my friend at the gate, and we were fortunate enough to be able to select our favor¬ ite easy chairs on the moving sidewalk. We chatted cosily as, side by side, we set off for the beautiful, mod¬ ern, glass R. H. S. On the way to school we saw a man sowing some of that new self-cutting grass in his front yard, a poster announcing that Roosevelt will definitely run for re-election, a scientist experimenting with a gravity controller which should make walking on air possible, a new salon advertising enough concentrated sleep in two hours to last for three weeks, and the re¬ cently painted station where under-water subways leave every thirty minutes for Europe. We arrived at R. H. S. just as the 8:15 bell was ringing, and were invited by the president of the Student Council, who is in complete charge, to spend a typical day with the pupils. We each selected a miniature car, which all the pupils now have for going from class to class, from its compartment, and drove to the study hall, leaving it with an honor pupil to park for us. Just a; I was settling myself in one of the huge easy chairs, however, I was summoned to the office and told that a friend from Mars was calling by super-hydronic tele¬ phone. My friend, the president of the Woman’s Club there, invited me to attend an autogyro race two weeks Sixty — 19 4 1 First Row Agnes McGrath Frances Madden Falsie Mason Caroline Foster Beverly Johnson Sonia Courossi Gertrude Dahlquist Helen Dahlquist Helen Poland Jean Dodge Second Row Edna Barmby Alma Towle Nancy Holcomb Jean Dow Patricia Lane Claire Johnson Elinor Abbott Barbara Merritt Beatrice Ruderman FIELD HOCKEY First Row Coach Sjiencer Theodore Theodoroi Stephen Doucette David Sheldon Roger Wheeler Glenn Hod son Second Row Robert Dugan Richard Beaumont Thomas Thornton Walter Gallant Wilbur Castine CROSS COUNTRY Sixty-one PIONEER from today and told me to be sure to come on a strato¬ sphere train. Delighted at the prospect, I accepted her invitation. Coming out of the office and seeing the stockroom, I remembered that I wanted to buy one of those pencils that Algernon has—the kind that write as you think. My purchase in hand, I climbed again into the little put-put and whizzed up to visit an English class, where I was met by a group of students who informed me that for the first time in history the R. H. S. football team had gone through undefeated for the season. 1 sat down in an easy chair, turned on the radio, and placed on my head the howl-shaped instrument from which the day’s English grammar was transmitted to my brain. The robot which was the teacher passed out paper for the assignment and dismissed the class. On my way to visit an Algebra class, I was caught speeding by the traffic officer, who came rushing alter me on roller skates, and this being a serious offence, even though I was a guest, 1 was assigned to Concen¬ tration Camp Number Three. For lunch I was allowed to rejoin my friend, and together we swallowed eight light brown pills, four navy blue ones, and two yellow ones-—delicious! The assembly program for the day was a radio television program on how to use correctly that gas that enables one to stride through the air at a very swift rate of speed. After school we climbed into a rocket ship taxi and hopped over to Birch Meadow Airport and from there to the seaplane base at Wakefield Lake. During the afternoon my friend and I were hungry, so we stop¬ ped at Torre’s for non-fattening sodas and a box of non¬ fattening chocolates. Deciding to walk again, we left our ship at Torre’s landing field. As the escalated side¬ walk took us by the men’s clothing store, I remembered that 1 was supposed to buy a visor for my husband that will protect his nose from the feathers on women’s hats. My friend urged me to take out my little dictaphone, which had the list of articles I needed to buy, to see if I had forgotten anything else. I had, and just as soon as we reached the clinic for replacement parts of the hu¬ man anatomy, I went in to purchase a finger for Alger¬ non, who had cut his off on the can opener, one that lives up to its guarantee. At last we moved homeward, and 1 turned on the miniature radio on my wrist and we listened to a news broadcaster telling us the day’s events in the Fourth World War. Tonight, after I had eaten my supper, 1 cabled the weather control office to request that it rain during the night in our neighborhood, as our lawns need it badly. And here 1 am, in bed once more. In another second, 1 shall put in the third button on the right, the shade will go down, the window ' will open, and 1 11 drift off to peaceful slumber. Elizabeth White ’43 THE POST-GRADUATE YEAR A Trilogy—By Those Who know Lament of a Forgotten Race When I was a little soph ' more child, I envied the life of the free and wild; To my own I could not be reconciled In short, I longed to be a P. G. Alas! how quickly the years have flown! Have pity on me as I groan, “Poor innocent! had I only known The misfortunes that were awaiting me!” It’s odd to see your coat go out On someone else and hear her shout, “I wonder whose coat this is; no doubt It just belongs to some P. G.” Your books in the corner or under the couch . . . ! Most people think you’re an awful grouch If you even wail so much as “Ouch! Who is it does these things to me?” I am fast becoming a malcontent: When I think of the way my life is spent, I would gladly flee to the Orient And quietly drown in the China Sea. Ruth Shumaker ’40 Dirge Gaunt P. G.’s stalk with spectral stride, The doomed dead who still abide In halls of learning, chill and wide. Wherefore? They chant their hollow-voiced lays; Forlorn—forlorn—the ghost class strays; They stalk—the shades of vanished days. Wherefore? Remorse gnaws those who linger on. Who did not heed the moan, “Begone!”, Of other ghosts who stalked so wan. Wherefore? Ah, these sad souls might once have fled— Have burst this realm of living dead, Yet still they stalk with haunting tread. Wherefore? Dorothy Babcock ’10 Student’s Enigma A P. G. to a sophomore asked, “What makes you seem so sad? You look as if you’d lost your friends, Or would you were a grad.” Sixty-two 19 41 First Row Margaret I vers Nancy Perry Helen Poland Lillian Davies Kathleen Wright Priscilla Davis Second Row Carolyn Lumsden Betty Stanwood Shirley Stevens Jean Danforth Betty Shannon Sonia Courossi Edith Kimball Florence Duggan Frances Wheeler Helen Dahlquist Virginia Davis Third Row Marcia Wentworth Nancy White Beverly Buckler Lucille Gonnam Evelyn Greenleaf Marjorie Webster Helen Farr Phyllis Springford Priscilla Nichols Stella Pollitz Fourth Row Frances Madden Frances McLaughlin Barbara Nielson Marilyn Monegan Dorothy Stratton Claire Johnson Gertrude Dahlquist Elinor Abbott Jean Dow GIRLS’ TENNIS TEAM First R ow GIRLS’ BASKETBALL TEAM Edith Kimball Elsie Mason Maybelle Gaw Elizabeth White Jean Maguire Phyllis Barr Nancy Perry Lucille Watts Esther Frotten Second Row Edith Manter Althea Crilley Lucille Levasseur Alma Towle Frances Wheeler Helen Dahlquist Carolyn Foster Betty Hoffer Barbara Normine Constance Shipp Helen Poland Third Row Beatrice Ruderman Beverly Buckler Sonia Courossi Barbara Bryant Elincr Abbott Jean Dodge Katherine Maling Margaret I vers Patricia Gray Florence Duggan Nancy Pratt Fourth Row Lucille Gonnam Marjorie Webster Barbara Glover Barbara Merritt Patricia Lane Claire Johnson Harriet Shepardson Marjorie Tonks Jean Dow Gene Baker Doris Margeson Sixty-three EICNEER The sophomore answered with a sneer, “You kids just make me mad, Because you think your life is drear I wish 1 were a grad. The graduate to this replied, “Your troubles aren ' t so bad. Our cares are great, our work is hard, And yet you ' d be a grad?” ‘77 enter college in three years,” The sophomore then replied. “And that’s exactly what I said! ’ The P. G. sighed. “I lied.” Dorothy Bailey ’40 SWING OR THE CLASSICS? Although there is a terrible war raging in Europe today, it really is rather insignificant compared to the battle being waged amongst the R. H. S. students over music—CLASSICAL and SWING. The poor neutrals just can’t make up their minds which they prefer—pop¬ ular pieces or the classics. Most of them have long since come to the sensible conclusion that there are worth¬ while merits in each. “There is a time and a place for everything.” That saying can aptly he applied to music. When a guy or gal feels full of life and rarin’ to go—bring on the swing!! Everybody loves swing music because there is nothing that can quite match it for dancing. The neu¬ tral person leans toward that type of swing which is slow—not loo slow—but dreamy like “High On a Windy Hill” or “My Sister and I”. As for “boogie woogie” music—well, it’s just as much a symphony—in jazz, as any other kind, because it is one orchestra’s arrange¬ ment and individual interpretation of a musical selec¬ tion. As for the classics, where should we be without them? The neutral soul can enjoy relaxing at home in the evening listening to Tschaikowsky’s “Nut Cracker Suite” or “The Moonlight Sonata” by Beethoven. They are so soothing that they make the music lover forget his troubles. Certainly in their place, the classics are tops too, although Mr. Neutral would not want a steady diet of them, either. It is impossible when speaking of music not to mention radios, for with just the flick of our fingers we have Shaw and Stokowsky, Tucker and Toscanini, not to forget krupa and Koussevitsky at our side. How¬ ever, it is such musical programs as “The Pause that Refreshes” and “The Ford Summer Evening Hour” that are favorite musical entertainments with everybody, for the give both the “Scrub Me Mama with the Boogie Beat” type and the “Ave Maria” group together. These programs are trying hard to make classical music popular, and popular music, classical”, and we should love them for it! The neutral soul is silting on that fence trying to make up his mind which way to fall, but he s afraid it is useless, for he’s getting nowhere fast. Let’s listen to Bea and Alice and to Winnie, who have very defi¬ nitely made up their minds on this all important topic of SWING vs. CLASSICS: The Case For The Classics! “Hey, wait a minute, Suzie Hep-Cat and you, too, Algie Alligator, I want to talk to you. I’m getting sick and tired of hearing you and your buddies always pan¬ ning the CLASSICS. You all think that anybody who loves this kind of music must surely be an “old stick in the mud” or a “corny ancient . But look at me! I’m just plain, carrot-topped Winnie Poland—out tor a good time and just as crazy as the rest of you, only my gang and I want the CLASSICS! You, Miss Hep-Cat and Mr. Alligator, haven’t giv¬ en the CLASSICS a fair chance. Instead, you have treat¬ ed them like a worn out teddy bear to be flung aside with the phrase “They’re so dead!” or perhaps 1 want something with rhythm, and where can you find rythm in that symphony bunk?” Or maybe you wax patriotic and say “I want American music, the music of my own country, not the handouts of Germany, France, Italy, or England.” “That’s just it,” I hear Suzie Hep-Cat say, “I want music full of life for enjoyment, and I can’t . . .” But you can! You can have just that in the CLASS¬ ICS. What could be more full of life than Strauss’s “Blue Danube”?? And if you think Rimsky Korsakoff ' s “Flight of the Bumble Bee” dead—well, there must be something wrong with you! What about rhythm in CLASSICAL music? It abounds with it! Whether it be the lilting tempo of Strauss or the dignified down-beats of Dvorak, you’ll have plenty of rhythm. As for you patriotic people who complain about CLASSICAL mu¬ sic’s coming only from Europeans, what do you think Leems Taylor and Roy Harris have been doing for the past two years? Harris and Taylor, along with Gershwin, Stephen Foster, MacDowell, and Victor Herbert, have given America a musical heritage of which it can be proud. The other day, Algie Alligator, I heard you say � p Rollo, the Rug Cutter, “Look what SWING has done for the classics! Why—what would have become of the classics if it hadn’t been for SWING?” They, the CLASSICS, would have been where they’ve always been, Algie, rolling on—oblivious to all the passing, insignificant moods of music. What I’d like to ask you is—Where would swing be without the CLAS¬ SICS? Practically all popular music has had its begin¬ nings—perhaps very obscure beginnings—but begin¬ nings in the works of the music masters. For the more out- Sixty-four PICNCEC standing high ranking “Hit Parade” swing hits derived from the CLASSICS, look what the great Russian com¬ poser, Tschaikowsky, has given you lovers of popular music: “On the Isle of May”, “Our Love , and “Moon Love”. Ravel delivered to y ou “The Lamp is Low’ . Don ' t forget “My Reverie” by Debussy, a piece which brought Larry Clinton royalties of $50,000. And how about that hit “Amapola , which is a tune ages old from Mexico? “Yeah, 1 guess what you say is true”, pipes up Algie, “ but most of us kids of the twentieth century aren’t interested in the classics. They ' re meant for ma and pa.” That’s where you’re wrong Alligator. American youLh is becoming day by day more conscious of the CLASSICS. Look at the National Youth Administration orchestras springing across the U. S. A. Note such talented American artists are Selma Kaye, Rise Stev¬ ens, and even Deanna Durbin singing their way into your hearts, and such pianists as Leonard Shure and Dalies Frantz. „ Classical music is not made by and played for the aged alone, it is made for all of us, everyone. Now don’t get me wrong, you jitterbug friends. I didn t say that I positively but absolutely abhor all branches and phases of swing music, ’cause I don’t. I like some swing and it can’t be beaten for dancing. However, I look at it this way. You all like nursery rhymes once in a while. Surely you do! Who doesn’t get a kick out of “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall” or “Hey Diddle Did¬ dle, the cal and the fiddle, the cow jumped over the moon”? But for a steady diet would you want nursery ditties continually? As for me—no thanks! I want something 1 can sink my teeth into—literature with real feeling and work put into it. Apply this to mu¬ sic. Certainly I like swing, once-in-a-while, but deliver me from a steady diet of it! I’ll take symphony any time. I can see by this time that all you hep-cats, alliga¬ tors and rug cutters have blood in your eye and I guess I’d better end this little speel. But don’t forget—give the CLASSICS a chance! Listen to the symphony con¬ certs Sunday afternoons and then see if you don’t get to like CLASSICAL music better. Winifred Poland, ’42. This Thing Called Swing Concealed behind the locked door in the depths of her clothes closet, Susie Q sat listening to her cher¬ ished records, purchased secretly with her lunch money. In the midst of a mellow trumpet solo by Harry James, the spell was broken by a pounding on the bedroom door. Quickly she snapped off the “vie” and dashed to the door, hut too late—mother had heard the forbidden music. “Susan Q! Listening to that trash again!” Poor Susie! She is one of those unfortunate girls who have mothers who mean well, but who just don t understand SWING. For the benefit of all the Mrs. Q’s let us prove that the popular music of the day is not so trashy” as they so readily assume. Music is the international language. Everyone agrees to this. A great part of this language is the really American music—SWING. It’s as fresh and new as the country which gave it to the world. The true meaning of SWING is difficult to define in so many words. The best of it has no lyrics. It has its various moods and invites as many interpretations as do the classics—and SWING bands put in just as many ar¬ duous practice hours as do symphony orchestras. One band may pour forth soft and soothing tones, while an¬ other may inspire such “hepeats” as our Lorraine Laughlin and Joe Pendergrast of sixth period fame to give out with their conglomeration of splits, kicks, and hops. Like the classics, SWING has it’s three B’s: “boogie-woogie”, “blues”, and “barrelhouse”! At the mention of these three, some of our lovers of classics throw up their hands in despair, for they still are not informed as to the beauty of SWING. They do not stop to realize that Paul Whiteman, the undisputed King of Jazz, quieted it considerably by subduing his saxes and muting his trumpets. SWING can be divided into two types: sweet and hot. Each has its individual appeal. Some people take to the danceable and lilting melodies of Sammy Kaye, Kay Kyser, and Guy Lombardo, but because the majority rules, at the top of the nation’s popularity poles are bands such as Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, the Dorsey brothers, Artie Shaw, and Will Bradley. To consider a musician’s view on the subject, we quote Bill Morrissey, talented member of the Senior Class: “If swing hasn’t rhythm, then you can beat Toscanini eight to the bar! When somebody tries to tell me that there is more rhythm in the classics than in “hep-stuff”, my blood begins to boil! A good jive is judged by other musicians, not by blow-hard critics, by the rock of its rhythm section, by the pump and bounce of its sax section, by the drive of its brass section. What are “rock”, “pump”, “drive”, and “bounce”? They’re the feeling of the rhythm that is additional to the regular beat of the drummer. It is a feeling that cannot be heard, hut can be felt. Paul Whiteman, who is recognized by all musicians in both classical and popular fields, as an outstanding artist and authority on music, has this to say: “Never before in history has any art possessed such a large consuming class as American music does today. The patrons of swing are mostly of high school and college age. Older people are not, because it’s impossible to learn a foreign language like swing late in life. To the older generation, swing sounds like noise and discord. They insist it’s not music, just the way any person of the Sixty-six PIONEER Western world might insist that Chinese, spoken co¬ herently by four hundred million people, is a gibberish. So the wagon of a band leader is hitched to millions of devoted and faithful little jitterbugs, who’ll plug for him as long as he plays fair with them. Today, in addition to say four thousand dancers, there are a thousand “intellectual” jitterbugs who come for the sole purpose of listening and watching. The SWING fan is probably the only entertainment seeker in the world who isn’t frightened away by the sign “Standing Room Only”. When he admires a band, he organizes Charlie Barnet, Woody Herman, or Bob Cros¬ by fan clubs always ready to rally to the bandleader ' s side when he needs them most. These fan clubs vote solidly behind him in the important popularity polls conducted by the magazines “Metronome”, “Down Beat”, “Swing”, and “Orchestra World ’. No other commercial enterprise in the world can boast of cus¬ tomers who lavish their money on a product and then spend precious lime and enthusiasm trying to put that product over on a national scale—just for the fun of it. SWING music depends for its freedom on the prin¬ ciples of American democracy. SWING music was not mentioned in the Bill of Rights, and yet it is implied just as surely as freedom of the press. Freedom of the press gives journalists the right to editorialize on the news. What is a SWING chorus? It is a musical edi¬ torializing on somebody else’s melody. America has been a jam session ever since its beginning. The town meeting halls were places where everybody came to blow ' his own horn, and Congress is a forum where everybody comes to grind his own ax. SWING, believe it or not, is not taught in saloons and dance halls, but in the halls of our country’s schools. Give a boy a musical instrument and what happens? Is he content to play last century’s music? Does he bow before piece of manuscript and worship it because its author is dead? Not on your tintype. Om of his saxaphone will come a screech of rebellious free¬ dom. Its his privilege, his pleasure, and his art o make “Sweet Sue sound like “Avolon” on Tuesday nights, and like nothing anybody ever heard before o.i Thursdays. His only obligation is to respect the laws of harmony and submit to the admonition of good taste. 1 he four outstanding magazines on swing: “Met¬ ronome”, “Down Beat”, “Swing”, and “Orchestra World , came into being because lovers of this music- craved news about bands and the world of SWING. In them, fans are given an opportunity to express their own opinions and to send in their own contributions. The following poem illustrates our point: “ hen people of the classics speak. My chin droops low, and knees get weak. 1 think of operas mad and wild, Of concerts drab and music mild. So in regard to long-haired mopes, (Who think we swing fans silly dopes) I ' d dedicate this gentle thing On music great that ' s now called swing. Rock it out sweet, and get on the beat. Ruffle your feet, you ' re due for some heat. Silvery tones and soft, golden riffs, Echoes of rivers, of forests and cliffs, Milenberg joyfuls of sparkling swing— Golden choruses of trombones ring, Rich deep blues in velvety tones, Mellow of bass and saxaphones. Sparkling keyboard ringing clear— Lending perfect atmosphere. Happy drumbeats again renewed In “Little Brown Jug” and “In the Mood . “Begin the Beguine” by Artie Shaw, “Slip Horn Jive without a flaw, “Farewell Blues” and- “Dolamite “Whispering” through the purple night!” Beatrice Ruderman, ’42. Alice Robinson, ’42. THOSE LITTLE THINGS WE CAN’T FORGET: the struggle to look intelligent in first period of classes when spiritually we were back home, fast asleep . . . the sudden awakening of interest when “B. B. C.” en¬ tered a room . . . the color scheme of Todd Crookers “green hornet blivet . . . the Senior Snow Carnival . . . that familiar refrain, “It ' s only a short assignment (about two hundred pages long) . . . the study hall, so peaceful and quiet . . . Charlie’s grin . . . the “House of Horrors” at the Fair . . . the curtain that stuck at a crucial moment in “Through the Night,” and disclosed a certain dignified gentleman swinging on the ropes . . . the rotary traffic system and its ingenious “circles” . . . Mr. Dixon’s last strand of hair . . . the musical sound of the 2:30 bell . . . Mr. Sussmann’s inexhaustible store of assembly anecdotes . . . that first trip “to the office” . . . the interesting accessories sported daily by that statue in the library . . . Hi-Dime . . . those knock-down, drag-out presidential election debates in history . . . the “boomps-a-daisy” . . . the looks on the girls’ faces at dissecting time in the lab . . . Miss Reed and Mr. Spencer emoting to the click of cameras in the Teach¬ ers’ Club play . . . the agony of those last few days be¬ fore vacations . . . “Pop” Wheeler’s keen wit . . . “How¬ ie Bates as the First Witch in “Macbeth” . . . the jit¬ terbugs at those lunch-room dance sessions . . . the band rehearsals . . . the Christmas tree in the entrance hall . . . Miss Devaney’s sense of humor . . . the three little soap dispensers that never worked . . . Mr. Pope’s expression when an experiment didn’t work ... the mur¬ als which art students paneled around Room F . . . the sound of the little jack-knife at assemblies . . . Miss Sixty-eight 1941 Kling and “Firefly” . . . those lunch room seats that always swung the wrong way . . . Miss Zimrnermann a “iominy” . . . those A Capella Choir “nightgowns . . . the fashion show with gridiron heroes as models . . . the hook reports we “swallowed in two hours . . . Mrs. Kingman’s chocolate cake with mocha frosting . . . class meetings . . . “Woody” Titcomb’s “falling at long last . . . Mr. Fitzgerald’s wisecracks . . . report cards! . . . the “No School” signal . . the portrait of Grant in Room 2 . . . the way the clock hands jumped . . . the wind blowing around the outside wall of Room A . . . “The f oxy Five” and the 1940 football team . . . the April, 1940, conflagration . . . 8:00 to 8:15 . . . those textbooks which were, without a doubt, good in their day . . . the plaster busts, with no labels, that scowlea at us from corners . . . the way the sophomores got shorter and younger every year ... the view from Room B in the spring. . . the weight of all history books . . . the cripples after Senior Carnival . . . “Friends, Romans, Countrymen, etc.” . . . Miss Batchelder’s off repeated “This is a study hall, not a beauty parlor” . . . Fart II, Section A: “Pupils will stand when reciting” . . . Miss Nichols at the piano . . . getting stuck behind the lockers in futile search for lost books . . . the friendly “one big happy family” atmosphere of R. H. S. Donald Hitchcock, ’41. SONG SNATCHES Class Treasuries Miss Carpenter Lunchroom “Woodie” Titcomb Barbara Bird Todd Crooker’s Cat- Sophomores “I Got Plenty of Nothin” “You Walked By” “Three at a Table for Two” “Oh, Look at Me Now” “Strawberry Blonde” “Wearing of the Green” “Fools Rush In ' “Glow Worm” “You Danced with Dynamite” “You Must Have Been a Beautiful Baby “Ain ' t You Ashamed!” “Never Took a Lesson in my Life” Jimmy “Jumpin’ Jive Bain “Oh, They ' re Making Me All Over in the Army ” “Dodie” Carder “We Three” Misses Batchelder, Zimrnermann, Hayden “Joe’ Flossie” Duggan Pendergast ” “Bev” Buckler Detention “Dark Eyes” “1 Get a Kick Outa Corn” “Blues on Parade” “Third Finger, Left Hand” “Slap Happy Lassie ' “High on a Windy Hill “It All Comes Back to Me Now” “Chet Gunn—after exams “I Didn ' t Know What Time It Was” Office Refrain “Wise Old Owl” Mr. Pope Sonia Courossi “Al” Gianascol Exams Miss Devaney “Ginnie” Davis R. H. S. “I Hear a Rhapsody” “May I Never, Never Love Again!” “Anchors Aweigh “You Don ' t Play a Drum” “1 Can ' t Get ’Em Up” “Little Girl “Dancing on a Dime” “I m Glad for Your Sake Mr. Peck “Lewy Bosson Glenn’s Cadillac Orlando Ames My Marks Donna Packer “Vic Dances Seniors to Teachers Alice Robinson ’42 A WEEKEND AT THE BEACH Have you ever stayed at one of those beach cot¬ tages ri ght on the sand? I mean the type that is sand¬ wiched so that every squeek and rattle from the neigh¬ bors becomes your worry. I recall vividly one such weekend that left me rather dazed; recalling it here should put us right in the mood for summer vaca¬ tion. When I arrived at the station that Saturday after¬ noon, I was really astonished to see so many people alighting from the train. I found there were equally as many lumbering station wagons and old cars lined up next to the platform as there were limousines and Packards. Finally I found my hostess—in one of the oldest cars in the lot. She was garbed in a scanty bath¬ ing suit, with her hair stringing in all directions from a red, peeling face. Although she was more than cord¬ ial, I must admit that I was a trifle disconcerted, for I had just read in a current glamour magazine that first impressions are the most lasting. Following up this idea, I had worn a new picture hat and a “GWTW” dress. The ride to the cottage in “Mehitable”, as the car was called, took a great deal of courage on my part, for my picture hat and billowing skirts found great diffi¬ culty staying in the car, let alone on me. On arriving at the cottage 1 began to wonder how such a large rambling piece of architecture could have been built on such a small plot of ground. The minute I stepped from the car, a great, shaggy dog came bounding toward me with his teeth bared. Now, 1 really love dogs, but this one was too much for me. I must have looked a trifle pale, for my hostess laughed and said the dog had ueen taught to “smile” at visitors. Not to be a poor sport or anything, it just happens that I’m allergic to two things: icy water and seafood of the clam and lobster families. Of course the first thing I was persuaded to do was to take a swim in posi¬ tively the iciest water I’ve ever felt. I tried to take this punishment gracefully, but when I heard that for supper a nice clam bake on the sand had been plan¬ ned. I ' ll admit my spirits were slightly dampened. A clam bake is really a great deal of fun, but at 50 degrees farenheit and for someone violently allergic to clams, I’m not sure it’s quite the best of sports. Sixty-nine PICNEER In the morning, I awoke to a very pleasant aroma. I just lay there for several moments breathing it in. 1 remembered my good manners, however, and dressed quickly. Hurrying downstairs, I hunted high and low for some occupant of the house. It was then that I realized that the delicious breakfast was being eaten next door. I remained disconsolately near the window for almost an hour before friend hostess ' tousled head ap¬ peared. Coke and doughnuts, though a belated and “different” breakfast, appeared to serve the purpose. This activity was followed by intensive beaching. 1 have always wondered why people wear such pained, determined expressions while trying to acquire a sun tan. We lay prostrate, not speaking or moving, intent on the all important sun tan. This went on until noon time, when we had to go to the fish market to get—lob¬ sters for dinner. Now this really was a blow to me. For even in my wildest dreams I hadn’t imagined that she’d find for me during my short stay the only two edibles that I really detest. On inquiring around, how¬ ever, I found that the menu problem of the hostess at the beach inevitably narrows down to exactly those two items. In the afternoon, I was informed that we were to go sight-seeing for my benefit. This was highly agree¬ able to me, for I had had visions of more beaching. Our first stop was the artist colony. This consisted of about a dozen fishing shacks, which were badly in need of eau de cologne and a few new shingles. I have since found out that one is supposed to “ooh and aah over said shacks. Now that I think it over, I must have look¬ ed pretty unresponsive and, worse still, unappreciative. The next stop was a gift shop of great note, where the artists bought their supplies and where they could be seen at odd hours. It was rumored that there was one resembling Orson Welles who came to the shop each day at four o’clock. We browsed around until five, but he didn’t appear. My hostess was tired by this time, and discouraged that I had missed this great thrill. I was tired and dis¬ couraged from waiting. I am sure my departure on the evening train was timely for all concerned. Although many people spend the entire summer in this fashion, I am sure a weekend is enough for us timid souls. Barbara Davis, ’42. Severity John Shaw: “Help! Help! I’m going down for the third time!” Tom Jacob: “If you don’t find it this time, old chap, I’ll help you look for it!” Mr. Dixon: “Who was the nation’s greatest in¬ ventor?” “Woody”: “Edison. He thought up the phono¬ graph and radio so that people would sit up all night and use hsi electric bulbs.” Miss Hayden: “What is the difference between results and consequences?” “Bunny” Storti: “Results are what you expect around here and consequences are what you get.” program.” Mr. Sussmann, looking annoyed at a noisy assembly hall, did nothing to quiet the students. Mr. Spencer: “Why don’t you quiet them?” Mr. Sussmann: “Because I’ve lost my little jack¬ knife.” John O’Malley: “Let’s cut classes and go to a show. Jimmy Bain: “Cant do it old man, I need the sleep.” Woody (as building burns) : “Jump into the blanket.” “Flo” (from second story window) : “No, you might drop it . Put it on the ground first.” Bates: “Lend me five bucks and I’ll be everlast¬ ingly indebted to you.” Anderson: “Yeah, that’s what I’m afraid of.” Ed Ford: “Gee, Al, there’s a fly in my throat.” Doughty: “Well, take some water and wash it down.” Ed Ford: “Aw, let it walk down.” The recruiting officer walked into the barn where “Farmer” was milking a cow and said, “Why aren ' t you at the front young man?” Dickie: “Cause there ain’t no milk at that end. Mr. Pope (sternly) : “When the room settles down I ' ll start the lecture.” Bob Olsen: “Why don ' t you go home and sleep it off?” Miss Devaney: “Who wrote the poem beginning, ‘0, to be in England ?” Lander: “Ah .... ah ... . !! Hitler!!” M iss Zimmermann: “What’s the formula for water, Ames?” Orlando: “HIJKLMNO.” M iss Zimmermann: “What’s that?” Orlando slowly repeated the letters. M iss Zimmermann: “Whatever are you driving at? What gave you that idea?” Orlando : “You did; you said yesterday it was H to 0.” Continued on page seventy-three 1 Seventy-one ir� R 1941 HUMOR (Continued) Tardy Tom Jacob: “I was trying to get into my locker.” Mrs. Tilton: “Next time just try putting your books in.” Ann: “If you dare kiss me I ll scream.” Bosson: “Why? There isn’t a soul within miles. Ann: “I know, but I want to satisfy my con¬ science.” Lennox Schoppelry: “Get ready to die. I’m going to shoot you.” Todd Crooker: “Why?” Lenny: “I’ve always said Id shoot anyone who looked like me.” Todd: “Do I look like you?” Lenny: “Yes.” Todd: “Then shoot.” “Pop Wheeler arrives at the toll bridge in his Model T. Bridge Tender: “Fifty cents.” “Pop”: “Sold!” Iheatre Usher Babine: “Orchestra seats are 85c, balcony 65c, and programs are a penny.” Scotsman Glenn Davis: “Very good, I’ll sit on a Morrissey: “Are you a little boy or a little girl?” Little child: “What the heck else would I be?” “Joe Palmer: “What is the difference between Don Taylor and Lewie Bosson?” Bill Morrissey: “Well, to put it briefly . . . some students pursue learning, while others learn pursuing.” Alfred Doughty, 4L Todd Crooker, ’41 Newt Dickie: “Your suit looks a little rusty.” Anderson: “Well, the salesman told my grand¬ father that it would wear like iron.” Mailman: “Does this package belong to you? The name is obliterated.” Donald O’Brien: “No, that isn’t my package. My name is O’Brien.” Carolyn: “I give my kisses to a select few only, Mac.” Mac: “Then put on some lipstick.” Carolyn: “Why?” Mac: “I’m a collector of rare prints.” Chet Gunn: “Poor Kenny! He went blind from drinking coffee.” Don Tuttle: “How did that happen?” Chet: “He left his spoon in his cup.” CLASS ELECTION (Continued) Edith Kimball Dorothy Stratton Helen Farr Virginia Davis Mary Delano Ruth Hicks Florence Duggan Barbara Bryant Ruth Hicks Lois Ives Frances McLaughl Lillian Davies Lillian Davies Mary Bronk Phyllis Cullington Betty Stanwood Beverly Buckler Heartbreaker Most Vivacious Neatest Most Cheerful Most Dignified Most Courteous Best Sport Woodbury Titcomb James Bain Donald Hitchcock Philip Burbine Donald Hitchcock Donald Hitchcock Woodbury Titcomb Class Actress (Actor) John Shaw Ideal R.H.S. Student Robert Burrows Class Artist John Shaw inClass Baby (Age) Robert Dagdigian Class Worker Glenn Davis Best Leader Glenn Davis Most Musically Inclined Robert Meuse Chatterbox George Brennan Scatterbrain Ellsworth Noone Junior Girl (Boy) Michael Stephanian BABY PICTURES 23 24 Thelma Currell Grace Bailey 48 49 Evelyn Shaw Ruth Hicks 73 74 Marjorie MacLeod Carolyn Campbell 25 Marjorie Tonks 50 Betty Gullam 75 Helen Gadbois 1 Edith Kimball 26 Mary Delano 51 Francis MacLaughlin 76 Robert Barrett 2 Newton Dickie 27 Doris Nelson 52 Robert Spellman 77 Richard Robbins 3 Lewis Bosson 28 Thomas Jacob 53 Lillian Davies 78 Paul Connelly 4 Donald Douglas 29 Herbert Kenney 54 Bette Stanwood 79 Elsie Mason 5 John Shaw 30 Clarence Frotten 55 Lennox Schoppelry 80 Lois Ives 6 John Dagdigian 31 Ann Walker 56 Joseph Carder 81 Sonia Courossi 7 Robert Taylor 32 Gerald Brooks 57 Carolyn Lumsden 82 Betty Shannon 8 Arthur Knapp 33 Helen Farr 58 Malcolm Johnston 83 Phyllis Garey 9 Robert Eisenhaure 34 Dot Stratton 59 Connie Scharton 84 Jean Stanwood 10 Robert Olson 35 Ruth Perley 60 Shirley Stevens 85 Barbara Bird 11 Robert Dagdigian 36 Betty Parks 61 Phyllis Lacey 86 Florence Duggan 12 Avis Sargent 37 Esther Frotten 62 Barbara Jenkins 87 Woody Titcomb 13 Jimmy Bain 38 Dorothy Meuse 63 Rita Schaeffner 88 Virginia Davis 14 Doris White 39 Alma MacDonald 64 Evelyn MacLeod 89 Louis Babine 15 Edward Doucette ♦0 Jeanette Callan 65 Mary Bronk 90 David Sheldon 16 Patricia Donegan 41 Richard Higgins 66 Donald Taylor 91 Barbara Blaikie 17 Mary Flynn 42 Beverley Johnson 67 Dot Taylor 92 Marjorie Owens 18 Barbara Bryant 43 Phil Burbine 68 Jean Dow 93 Jean Danforth 19 Virginia Roberts 44 John Storti 69 Dorothy Jeans 94 Gene Baker 20 Charlotte Parker 45 Don Dacey 70 Helen Wheeler 95 Esther Doucette 21 Ruth Whitton 46 Robert Meuse 71 Phyllis Cullington 96 Dorothy Walsh i, Edith Oulton 47 Eleanor Shaw 72 Priscilla Nichols Seventy-three Pto+tee i feaoAteAA, MR. LEON G. BENT MR. EDWARD A. BROPHY MR. LOUIS DAVIS MR. SAMUEL H. DAVIS MR. WENDELL P. DAVIS DR. ELDRIDGE GROVER MR. DAVID E. HERSEE MR. GILBERT M. LOTHROP MR. ORVILLE S. POLAND MR. FRANK D. TANNER MR. PHILIP WELCH MR. EDWARD TEER llte (lecdUwci GliAX) Ucle extends heartiest congratulations to R. H. S. 1941 and wishes for each member a successful and happy future It has been a privilege to produce this yearbook, and we wish to thank all of the class and faculty who have assisted us so cheerfully in its production. I Wilfred Or; In Daily iduates Ar Demand BEAUTY CULTURE A VOCATION OF DIGNITY Offers young men and women a life of Refinement, Security and Prosperity . . . . Write Today Our entire building is devoted to Day and Evening Classes conducted by Renowned Style Creators. Complete systematized courses. Most modern equipment. MODERATE TUITION CONVENIENT TERMS FREE PLACEMENT BUREAl For further information or for free booklet write or visit our Academy without obligation. WILFRED ACADEMY re 192 Bo) lston St. of Hair and Beauty Culture Boston KEN more 0880 STROUD SECRETARIAL SCHOOL 603 Main Street, Reading Day Division Intensive secretarial training for young women (high school graduates) — Small classes—Rapid, individual advancement—LOW TUITION payable monthly—Placement opportunities—Day classes start September 2. Evening Division ( ' lasses in shorthand and typewriting for beginners—Classes in rapid dictation and transcription for advanced students—Two-hour sessions Monday and Thursday—LOW TUITION payable monthly—Placement opportunities—Evening classes begin October 6. Director: Barbara L. Frost, B. S. Res. Tel. 1455 Welding Instruction EIGHTY HOURS OF PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION FOR $120.00 BASED ON A RATE OF $1.50 PER HOUR. Thousands of good welders are needed for the defense program. Why not play wise and get your instruction in a small school where the instructor who has had 12 years’ experience in this field will take a definite interest in your progress: a Main Street Welding School 267 Main St., Reading Tel. Reading 1656 I Reading Diner Try Our 3-decker Sandwich The Talk of the Town Compliments of Brook’s Express CQA Kern wood Cleaners The House of Quality CLEANING - PRESSING - REPAIRING DYEING FUR STORAGE LAUNDRY 54-56 Essex St. Melrose 2281 It SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOUNTAIN PENS and MECHANICAL PENCILS M. F. Charles Sons 610 Main St. Reading, Mass. Fred F. Smith, Inc. WHOLESALE and RETAIL DEALER in Lumber, Plumbing, and Heating Supplies, Lime, Brick, Cement, and Sewer Pipe. Builder’s Hardware of Every Description. See Our Gift Department 25-37 Harnden St. Tel. Rea. 0450 Fill and Sain BARBERS 58 Haven St. Reading, Mass. Compliments of L. G. and M. C. II awes Electric Home THE IS THE Modem Home THE Municipal Light Department IS HEADQUARTERS FOR THE LATEST AND APPROVED ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES KELVINATOR AND GENERAL ELECTRIC REFRIGERATORS UNIVERSAL - G. E. - ESTATE - KELVINATOR RANGES WATER HEATERS LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT VACUUM CLEANERS CLOCKS CASSEROLES TEL. READING 1340 9 s 9 !! a 9 9 9 You will take increasing pride and joy with your Balfour ring over the years. CLASS JEWELRY and STATIONERY PRODUCTS Jeweler to the Senior Class of Reading High School L. G. BALFOUR COMPANY Represented by S. G. Lee 234 Boylston St. Boston, Mass. ALL OUR GRADUATES from READING ARE EMPLOYED MALDEN BuiUteU SCHOOL 6 Pleasant Street, Malden 0256 Founded 1903 Co-educational A Class “A” Business College preparing young men and women for responsible positions in busi¬ ness. No previous commercial training necessary. SLIMMER SCHOOL BEGINS JUNE 30 and JULY 7 Free Placement Service to Graduates FALL TERM BEGINS SEPTEMBER 2 Send for Day, Evening, or Summer School Catalog THE FAY SCHOOL A Secretarial School for Young Women 52 Beacon Street Boston, Massachusetts TWO-YEAR COURSE Academic subjects of college grade and executive secre¬ tarial training: Electives: Medical Shorthand and Court Reporting. ONE-YEAR COURSE Executive secretarial train¬ ing. SUMMER COURSE Shorthand and Typewriting. Extra-curricular activities. Cultural and social ideals developed. For catalogue address: Irene Fay, Director Make-Up Work and intensive review in all High School Subjects Summer Preparatory School June 30 to August 15 Small Classes Morning Hours Co-Educational $30 one subject—$50 two subjects Experienced High School Teachers SEND FOR CIRCULAR The Fisher School 374 Broadway Somerset 1800 Somerville THE I Ugaaou Kcuj, VantiM Studio. Incorporated Official Photographer for the Class of 1941 160 Boylston Street Boston, Mass. Hancock 0743-4 B Randall’s Cruller Shop WHITE BREAD OATMEAL BREAD CUP CAKES Rolls-—Fresh from our oven twice daily Now on Haven Street CORSAGES — All Styles Weston’s Greenhouses Tots and Teens Toggery Shop TEENS — 10 - 20 Years We aim to serve you 187 Haven St. Tel. Rea. 0841-M Mineral Corner Store MEATS - GROCERIES - PROVISIONS Corner Mineral and Vine Sts. Tel. Reading 1293 9 Auburn St. Tel. Reading 0091-W Leon F. Qnimby REALTOR National Association R. E. Boards Boston Real Estate Exchange Massachusetts Real Estate Exchange 74 Haven St. Tel. Reading 1050 S. M. Hodson R. H. Hodson Hodson Brothers PAINTERS AND DECORATORS Paints, Wall Papers and Window Shades Store, Haven St., Near P. 0. Telephone 0060 Tel. Reading 1490 Summer Ave. Greenhouses blowers For All Occasions Wholesale - Retail Cut Flowers - Floral Designs - Memorial Baskets 362 Summer Ave. Reading, Mass. As directors of The First National Bank of Reading we extend best wishes to R. H. S. Andrew Christensen Willard A. Currier James W. Fairchild Norman W. Haines Benjamin M. Hartshorn Martin B. Hartshorn Joseph D. Knight Herbert W. MacLeod Wendell B. Newell Edward F. Parker Ernest D. Richmond Harry L. Wiggin Parry C. Wiggin a 3 3 3 s The Willis Pharmacy, Inc, Established in 1855 Service and Quality Merchandise READ WHITE MEN ' S and WOMEN ' S FORMAL CLOTHES RENTED FOR ALL OCCASIONS ' QUALITY ALWAYS 9 111 SUMMER STREET, BOSTON, MASS. WOOLYVORTH BLDG., PROVIDENCE, R. I. a 3 3 a Never Too Early .,. Often Too Late Lots of young folks starting the first job at a modest salary say to them¬ selves, “As soon as I get a raise, I’ll start to save something”. Raises come along. So do new wants, new desires. That savings account never does get opened. Suddenly the working days are over . . . with no “nest egg” laid aside for a comfortable old age. Regardless of how lit¬ tle you earn, you can save something. Get the habit. Start N O W. Mechanics Savings Bank 643 Main Street, Reading, Mass. This Co-operative Bank is an important local institution which was established to promote thrift and home ownership among working people. To this end we offer saving plans to fit almost any budget and home financing plans to meet a wide variety of needs. Whatever your plans for the future if you want to get ahead, it will pay you to find out about our service. Onr Purpose To Promote Systematic Saving and Economical Home Financing I Reading Co-operative Bank 643 Main Street Reading, Massachusetts. SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY Thirty (30) College scholarships available to those who need financial aid and can meet our scholas¬ tic standard in competitive examination July 1, 1941. Only 1941 graduates of New England high schools are eligible. Applications close June 15th. Send for information. SUFFOLK COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS: 5-yr. day or evening course for A.B. degree. Also special 3-yr. Pre-legal course meeting requirements for entrance to Suffolk Law School. Associate in Arts certificate awarded upon satisfactory com¬ pletion of 60 s.h. Entrance requirement: 15 acceptable units. Cultural and pre-professional pro¬ grams. SUFFOLK COLLEGE OF JOURNALISM: 5-yr. day or evening course for B.S. in J. degree. Practical professional course. SUFFOLK COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION: 5-yr. day or evening course for B.S. in B.A. degree. Majors in accounting, advertising or business management. SUFFOLK LAW SCHOOL 4-yr. day or evening course for LLB. degree. Entrance requirement: 60 s.h. of academic work. SUFFOLK GRADUATE SCHOOL OF LAW: 2-yr. evening course for LLM. degree. For LLB. graduates only. IMPORTANT: High School graduates not eligible to enter Suffolk Law School or Suffolk Graduate School of Law without previous academic work. OPENING DATE IN ALL DEPARTMENTS — SEPT. 22, 1941 Call, write or phone CAP. 0555 for catalog SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY REGISTER Derne Street Beacon Hill Boston, Mass. BUROETT COLLEGE ere the training meets the NEEDS OF THE TIME for the immediate demand l or the One- and two-year courses. Well- qualified faculty. Extra-curricula activities. Day and Evening classes. Previous commercial training not re¬ quired. Courses meet the needs of business and government. Calls for graduates exceed the supply. Cata¬ logue contains full information. BUSINESS TRAINING SINCE 1879 BURDETT COLLEGE Telephone HANcock 6300 opp ort am = i m 15 6 STUART- ' . HEAOtNC 8 I C. H. ATKINSON CO. n Compliments of 11 8 FINEST OF MEATS 8 ROCKPORT FISH MARKET I CHOICE FAMILY GROCERIES 1 BIRDSEYE FROSTED FOODS IN THE SWIM TO WIN i Compliments of MARION’S BEAUTY SHOP | | ALMA’S BEAUTY SHOP i 61 Ash Street Pleasant St. Telephone 0116 2 Mjnmmm ■ NUACE MOUNTING CORNERS 4—TRANSPARENT REGULAR JUNIOR These fam¬ ous corners will handle every thing from a pos¬ tage stamp to a large map, draw¬ ing, or pho¬ tograph. Popular for mounting snapshots on cards or in albums. Four styles, as shown above. In black, white, gray, green, red, sepia, ivory, gold, and silver.. Transparent style is of crystal-clear cellulose. NuAce PHOTO HINGES allow prints to he mounted one above the other where album space must be saved. Handy for newspaper clippings or postcards. Ready folded. Just moisten and use. All styles retail 10c package. (15c in Canada). Packed in effective display containers. Ask for sample packages and trade discounts. ACE ART CO. 12 Gould St. Reading, Mass. EVERYDAY GREETING CARDS GIFTS Appropriate For All Purposes CHINA, GLASS, POTTERY and BRASS LINENS, LEATHER GOODS and NOVELTIES TOYS, DOLLS and GAMES H. B. McARDLE PRINTING and OFFICE SUPPLIES Next to Reading Theatre 565 Main St. Tels. 1647 -1648 College of Liberal Arts Offers for young men a broad program of college subjects serving as a foundation for the under¬ standing of modern culture, social relations, and technical achievement. Students may concentrate in any of the following fields: Biology, Chemistry, Economics-Sociology, English (including an option in Journalism), and Mathematics-Physics. Varied opportunities available for vocational specializa¬ tion. Degree: Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts. .N UNIVERSIT Y College of Engineering Offers for young men curricula in Civil, Mechani¬ cal (with Diesel, Air-Conditioning, and Aeronauti¬ cal options), Electrical, Chemical, Industrial En¬ gineering, and Engineering Administration. Class¬ room study is supplemented by experiment and research in well-equipped laboratories. Degree: Bachelor of Science in the professional field of specialization. College of Business Administration Offers for young men six curricula: Accounting, Banking and Finance, Marketing and Advertising, Journalism, Public Administration, and Industrial Administration. Each curriculum provides a sound training in the fundamentals of business practice and cul¬ minates in special courses devoted to the various professional fields. Degree: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. School of Law Offers three-year day and four-year evening un¬ dergraduate programs leading to the degree of Bachelor of Laws. A minimum of two years of college work, or its full equivalent, required for admission to undergraduate programs. Case method of instruction. The School also offers a two-year evening program open to graduates of approved law schools and leading to the degree of Master of Laws. Under¬ graduate and graduate programs admit men and women. School of Business Offers curricula through evening classes in Ac¬ counting, Industrial Management, Distributive Management, and Engineering and Business, lead¬ ing to the degree of Bachelor of Business Ad¬ ministration in specified fields. Preparations for C. P. A. Examinations. A special four-year curri¬ culum in Law and Business Management leading to the Bachelor of Commercial Science degree with appropriate specification is also offered. Shorter programs may be arranged. Co-educat- ional. Evening Courses of the College of Liberal Arts Certain courses of the College of Liberal Arts are offered during evening hours affording concentration in Economics, English, History and Government or Social Science. A special program preparing for admission to the School of Law is also available. The program is equivalent in hours to one-half the requirement for the A. B. or S. B. degree. Associate in Arts title conferred. Co-educational. Co-operative Plan The Colleges of Liberal Arts, Engineering and Business Administration offer day programs for men only, and are conducted on the co-operative plan. After the freshman year, students may alternate their periods of study with periods of work in the employ of business or industrial concerns at ten-week intervals. Under this plan they gain valuable experience and earn a large part of their college expenses. FOR CATALOG — MAIL THIS COUPON AT ONCE NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY Director of Admissions Boston, Massachusetts Please send me a catalog of the 0 College of Liberal Arts □ 0 College of Engineering 0 College of Business Administration School of Law Evening School of Business Day Pre-Legal Program Evening—College of Liberal Arts Name . Address . C-62 Reasonaoi .. AK j. CUSTOm . Ladies ' and Gentlemen’s Suits and Overcoats Made to Order. Cleaning, Pressing, Dyeing and Remodeling. Furs remodeled in the latest styles. Tel. Reading 0073-M 175 Haven St. Reading, Mass. IDEAL REALTY SHOP 623 Main St. Reading 1669 Evening Appointments — ADAMS COMPANY LADIES’ and CHILDREN’S FURNISHINGS Haven St. Tel. Rea. 1360-W PRENTISS PARKER, Inc. W. H. WIGHTMAN CO. — INSURANCE — Reading Office Masonic Block Tel. Rea. 0249 Boston Office 40 Broad St. Tel. Hub. 7880 SAL’S BEAUTY SALON PERMANENTS OUR SPECIALTY 70 Haven St. Reading, Mass. Telephone Rea. 0456 Compliments of THE READING THEATRE TORRE’S Reading Square MAKING QUALITY CANDY AND ICE CREAM FOR OVER 25 YEARS Compliments of FRED’S BEAUTY SALON 48 Haven St. Tel. Reading 1599 i