EDUCATION: Purple and Gold, 1927 Yearbook, Altoona Catholic High School, Blair Co, PA Transcribed and contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Judy Banja Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Judy Banja Copyright June 2001. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/blair/ _________________________________________ PURPLE AND GOLD SENIOR ANNUAL Edited by CLASS OF 1927 ALTOONA CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL "Be Equal to Your Trust" Volume 2 [4] DEDICATION To Rev. Father Owen Michael Gallagher, A.B., M.A. Our beloved French Professor, whose persistent efforts have furthered our mental attainments, and whose generosity of heart has elicited our respect and devotion, the Seniors of the Class of Nineteen Hundred and Twenty-Seven affectionately dedicate this volume of THE PURPLE AND GOLD "Il vaunt son pesant d'or" [5] [photo] Rev. Father Owen Michael Gallagher [6] GOLD AND WHITE In the gentle breezes Waves the gold and white, Proud and noble standard, Emblem of delight. Bright and flaunting banner, Deeds great you inspire, Urging each one onward, Leading ever higher. White and gold are emblems Of purity and worth Which will always help us In sorrow or in mirth. Gold and White, keep waving, Dimmed not by sun or rain, Stained not by dishonor, Free from any stain -MARGUERITE GEBHARDT. [7] [drawing by G.T. Humerick] CONTENTS Dedication Foreword Class Portraits Literary Dramatics Alumni Athletics [8] TO OUR BISHOP Upon the pastoral care of our dear Bishop, the children hold a strong claim. One of the absorbing interests of his priestly life has been the welfare of the young. Indeed a life-long debt of devotion is due him from the Catholic youth of Altoona. This great Christian educator, in order that the image of the Creator may be preserved. in their hearts, provided them a Catholic institution of learning, through the teachings of which the treasures of genuine culture to be found in. the Catholic Church, and the wealth embodied in God's own gift of Holy Faith, would be brought home to them. Beloved Bishop, your works of zeal, of earnest labor, of generous self-sacrifice, give us an example of fervent devotion to our Blessed Lord, who has crowned your undertakings with glory. To us, your life, so faithful in every duty, so full of love for the "little children," glows as one great act of love for the Divine Master who has made you a shepherd in His fold. We earnestly trust that high ideals will develop in our souls, too, so that we, your spiritual children of the class of '27, will always, as you have done, "chafe at the barriers of time and space." -PAUL J. WALKER. [9] [photo] [10] REMEMBER US Remember us when we are gone away, Embark'd upon the sea of Destiny, Our ships made strong by your pure loyalty, Nor shall our souls your confidence betray. Remember us when no more, day by day, Before you, list'ning to thy voice sit we; Forget us not, but of us mindful be To this thy charge of aiding man to pray. May time erase our faults from mem'ry, Yet leave sweet thoughts of days of joy unmarred; May failures lessen not thy high regard, But merit for us earnest Heaven's aid, Besought by you, e'er mindful Faculty, While from our hearts your teaching ne'er will fade. - MARGARET FORSYTHE. [11] FOREWORD STANDING on the "old worn sill" over which we often watched our little urchins "go storming out to play," we now behold them, "in the bright morning of their virtues, in the full spring blossom of their hopes," solemnly strolling forth to play their part in the great drama of life. As in days long past but not forgotten they halted to heed the timely admonition of a loving parent, so now in the sun-kissed shadow of the school that sheltered them throughout four stormy scholastic seasons, they pause to hear their pedagogues' "prologue to the swelling act" of parting. Children, while perusing tomorrow's lesson you will learn that, although the morn come forth "in russet mantle clad", many a dismal cloud may cast its lengthening shadow athwart your pathway before the gathering shades of evening begin to lower; and the chill breath from a cold world may rudely scatter the bloom from the bright blossoms that today blushingly burst forth with rich promise of future fruitfulness. Darkness, however, holds no terror for him who courageously follows the "Light that shineth in darkness", and the wintry blasts of the world can never totally blighten the "hopes that rest in heaven". As you toilingly trudge through this vale of tears always remember that "the knell of each departing day" will find you, like the plowman, "Homeward wending your weary way". Therefore, "watch and pray" that your feet, divinely fashioned "to tread the mills of toil, may never sink in quick and treacherous sands of sin." Consider Charles Lindbergh, "lone wandering but not lost", in his "Spirit of St. Louis, pursuing his solitary way, through the illimitable air", from New York to Paris; and, in the spirit of the Saints, soar above the sordid things of earth while, from a lowly or professional field in this mercenary world, you zealously "seek the Kingdom of God and His justice". That the voyage of your life may not be bound in shallows and in miseries, take the tide of time at its flood today and confidently sail towards the "Port well worth a stormy cruise". Like the calm, courageous, christian [sic] mariner, Columbus, "sail on, sail on," until your immortal soul, washed clean from its "muddy vesture of decay", shall suddenly discern, upon the sunny shore of another world, the Light that shall forever brighten your endless day of eternity. [12] Children, "the wind sits in the shoulder of your sail", farewell! "Fair be all thy hopes, prosperous be thy life", and everlasting happiness be thy eternal reward! "Act that each tomorrow may find you further than today", but mistake not for your guiding star "every meteor fire that may cross your pathway". Seek not the false, fleeting, tinseled wares of time that, like the myriad-colored soap bubbles of youth, suddenly vanish with their capture. When your little day shall be far spent, may the softly falling shadows find your early morning virtues strengthened and your fondest hopes of childhood fully realized. May your last hours be happily spent in the contemplation of duties well discharged, charities well dispensed, and treasures securely stored in heaven. "In all things, both great and small, be equal to your trust, and, though unnoticed and unknown, play through life a perfect part", so that the mere mention of your name may cause us proudly to exclaim: "We once poured fresh instruction o'er your youthful mind." Reluctantly releasing you from the salutary servitude of the classroom, we remain Respectfully, YOUR TEACHERS. [13] CLASS OF '27 President, GUSTAV BURKHART Vice-President, HELEN HOLLENSHEAD Secretary, MAGDALEN SCHMITT Treasurer, NICHOLAS IRVIN [14 - 33] Delphine Airhart, "Delf" Cleo Boggs, "Cleo" Elizabeth Buschle, Commercial Course Ann Casey, Commercial Course Eleanor Chase, "Nellie" Helen Costlow, "Hic" Hazel Costello, Commercial Course Harriet Culp, Commercial Course Mary Cuzzolina, Commercial Course Jeannette DeBernardis, Commercial Course Marian Doran, "Mar" Josephine Doyle, "Joe" Marie Ernest, Commercial Course Charlotte Feeney, Commercial Course Margaret Forsythe, "Marg" Marguerite Gebhardt, "Geppie" Bertha Geisler, "Bertie" Bernice Gill, "Jill" Bertha Greiner, Commercial Course Anna Hauk, "Carrot" Helen Hollenshead, "Holly" Rose Marie Hoover, Commercial Course Collette Leahey, "Jew" Mary Long, "Tim" Mary Grace Martin, Commercial Course Agnes Megnogna, Commercial Course Regina Myers, "Jeanie" Gertrude Neugebauer, Commercial Course Bernardine Riley, "Bernie" Helen Ryan, "Baby" Magdalen Schmitt, Commercial Course Catherine Schnaubelt, Commercial Course Josephine Senkow, Commercial Course Frances Sullivan, "Francie" Kathleen Washington, Commercial Course Gilbert Adams, "Shorty" Anthony Berger, "Tony" Gustav Burkhart, "Gloomy Gus" Joseph Danahy, "Tackhead" Leo Dodson, "Felix" Edward Doran, "Spike" Robert Fochler, "Doggie" Howard Fox, "Piggy" Paul Harlow, "Pete" Leory Helfrich, "Taxi" George Humerick, "Doc" Lee Hoofnagle, "Radio" Nicholas Irvin, "Nick" John Kilcoyne, "Junior" Charles McAleer, "Red" William McAleer, "Static" Charles McCormick, "Charley" George McMullen, "Moon" Frederick Miller, "Fred" James O'Donnell, "Jim" Leo Schreiber, "Shrimp" Gilbert Schmittle, "Gil" William Stephens, "Bilwy" Paul Walker, "Jew" Terence Wharton, "Bright Eyes" [34] [photos] Editor-in-Chief, Charles A. McAleer BUSINESS STAFF George J. McMullen William F. Stephens William J. McAleer [35] [drawing] Literary PROLOGUE THE STAGE will soon be set for our Commencement, whereupon we, the class of '27, Catholic High's second assembly of graduates, will be arranged to receive public recognition of the work at which we have been quietly laboring for four years. The "olden golden days" for us are fast passing into history. The loved scenes of our school days; the delights of our youthful daydreams and the happy class hour assemblies are swiftly slipping into memories. Before the curtain descends upon the last scene, we will recount some of the pleasurable incidents of our years at Catholic High, re-live some of our past school-time joys, and review the ideals of noble manhood and womanhood that our Principal and teachers have painstakingly aided us to form. YEAR I. 1923 - 1924. On September 6, 1923, our journey through High School began. We started out with one hundred and forty-seven members. We were only the second class to enter, and the first to spend all of four years in this grand institution, an honor rivaling the proud boast of the school's first class who spent only three and one-half years in the new building. How cordially we were welcomed by our esteemed and devoted teachers! Classes were begun on September 8, and, by the way, on that day ended any opportunity for the likely school boy and girl exchange of kindly glances. The girls were assigned to the first floor and the boys to the second. How heartlessly was quenched the fire that feeds the flame of maiden dreams and youthful fancies! The contest for first rank that this separation aroused between the boys and girls still continues. Our class has always regarded itself as holding a special claim upon the teachers who became the members of the Faculty in '23 and who are still with us - Father Gallagher, Sister M. Marcella, Sister M. de Lellis, Sister M. Generosa and Sister M. Gonzaga. Soon we began to settle into the regular routine of study. We tripped and stumbled through the Latin declensions as tottering children taking their first steps, we struggled with problems of Algebra, traversed the fields of enchanting Egypt's history, and gloried in the days of proud Rome and beautiful Greece. We even had the honor of playing a secondary part in dramatics. In the play "Bandanna Days" the volume of our voices helped to swell the minstrel choruses. We also contributed some of the talent that won third prize in the Musical Memory Contest held in Altoona High School Auditorium. High School life was the "land of heart's delight" to us as Freshmen. Scholastic endeavor kept us thrilled to the end; so there was no joy for us in the promises of the vacation we saw approaching. At the exercises held in Mt. Carmel Auditorium on the evening of June 12, Margaret Forsythe and Loretta Leonard represented our class on the programme. Magdalen Schmidt carried off the Freshmen class prize awarded by our Right Reverend Bishop for highest average. [37] YEAR II. 1924 - 1925. At the opening of school in September our ranks were greatly depleted. Many had failed of promotion, others branched off into other fields of life work. We were jolly Sophomores, yes, and we happily resumed our life of work and pleasure. During this year our boys began to figure actively in Catholic High Athletics. Two of our geniuses, William McAleer and Terrence Wharton, became leaders in the orchestra. This year our serious hours were spent in following Caesar's unconquerable army and in tracing the beginnings of the Europe of the present day. We also studied the building of our own great nation, met the lawmakers and learned the principles of good citizenship, called the letters of the alphabet into service in doing our mathematical calculations and added French to our language group. Thus did narrow paths grow wider, and as we pursued our search for practical knowledge, we also found some delightful buds of culture and refinement and plucked some blossoms of enduring virtues. One of our classmates displayed a genuine sense of "the artistic" and won a prize of twenty-five dollars in an Interior Decorating Contest held at Aaron's Furniture Store. This year, too, we became little missionaries and have continued to be enthusiastic supporters of the "Students' Mission Crusade." Despite the fact that the boys' report cards showed the consequences of an occasional misaimed eraser and the unsolved mystery of a pair of golashes [sic], nevertheless the record of our class so far was creditable. In fact the boys did their bit for the glory of the school by helping to win the loving cup that was awarded during Boys' Week for good conduct in parade. In June, a few of our girls contributed talent to the closing programme held in Mt. Carmel Auditorium. Our Sophomore year was filled with happy days. We would reclaim them if we could, but now we must be content with the happy memories they have left us. YEAR III. 1925 - 1926. On the authority of our promotion cards there were sixty-eight to assume the title, "care-free Juniors", on September 8th. A pleasant vacation past and the expectation of an enjoyable year ahead, gave us that "world is mine" feeling on opening day. We began our search after knowledge in the Junior kingdom with our usually [sic] zealous spirit. At the close of school in June we lost the companionship of the most popular and most talented girl in the class, Loretta Leonard. We were somewhat recompensed, however, by the admission of George McMullen, whose coming we have had reason to regard as a real gain. With cautious steps we wound our way among angles, triangles, and circles. We listened to Cicero's pleading orations and sat in the Catilinean camp. Occasionally we flitted off to journey with Shakespeare or to be entertained by a [38] thought from Scott, Tennyson, and Dickens. Much to our delight we still had the treat of linguistic drills in our loved French exercises. We will not enumerate our many unscheduled ventures into the field of chemical research. Leo Dodson had the good fortune this year of winning first prize in an essay contest offered by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Our boys were leaders in Athletics, also. They were, sad to relate, also leaders in unpopularity. But their gay days ended, leaving, in spite of pretense to the contrary, the proverbial "bitter taste." This year our class widened the horizon of its social adventures. During the Hallowe'en season we entertained the Seniors at a party, and in June we Juniors were privileged to give the Seniors a Commencement breakfast. The graduation of the Seniors filled us with awe. What a feeling of responsibility came over us! Their passing left heavily upon us the burden of maintaining the honor of the school. We were now within one step of our own graduation, but we were loathe to see the class of '26 leave us. On the day following the close of school we held a class picnic at Lakemont Park. The High School faculty were our chaperons and guests. We spent a most enjoyable time, regretful though we were that it was the "finis" to our Junior joys. YEAR IV. 1926 - 1927. On September 7th, sixty Seniors, happy, expectant and somewhat consequential, came back to Catholic High for the last lap of their High School life. As was to be expected, it took some time to fit ourselves into the vacancies left by the first class, so high had they stood in the esteem of teachers and pupils. Once more we peer into books unknown. We brave the seas with Vergil's hero, Aeneas, even through shipwrecks. We try to discover the cause of the magic in the elusive electric current and we trace the steps by which our own fair United States came to be a nation wonderful. Yes, and what is more, by the boys, this year gradually became to be known as "an era of reform." They began to improve under the ennobling influence of the girls, who occupied the same room with them this year, or perhaps the recovered dignity was the result of their being addressed as Mister. The officers elected to represent the class this year were: President, Gustav Burkhart; Vice-President, Helen Hollenshead; Secretary, Magdalen Schmidt and Treasurer, Nicholas Irvin. Athletic activities were the principal school pastime of the year. Our class was indeed honored by having the captains of football and basketball teams selected from our number. Even the public showed its admiration of Captain Nicholas Irvin's ability as an athlete by voting him the most popular football player in Altoona. This entitled him to receive the Harold Grange loving cup offered the winner by the Altoona Tribune. As the year advanced the Seniors enjoyed several social events in the school hall. Among them, the most prominent were the Hallowe'en party held by the Seniors for the Juniors, and the Christmas party held by [39] the Juniors for the Seniors. In April an enjoyable prom card party was held by the Seniors at the Y. M. I. Twice during our Senior year did we make ventures upon the stage. Talent from our class helped to present a very successful Christmas programme in the Roosevelt Junior High School. Our Annual will go to print too soon for a report on the production of "Sylvia", the Senior Musical Comedy, to be presented by us on May eleventh, but who could doubt that its pastoral spirit will charm. The welfare of dear Catholic High has always been dear to the hearts of the class of '27, and we have always tried to be leaders in support of any cause it sponsored. Yes, and we are beginning to realize that graduation means the opportunity for this sweet service will soon be ended. Too soon must we relinquish our place in this "land or [sic] heart's delight." Finals loom not far in the distance, and, alas, close upon them will attend our last Senior social, our Graduation Mass and Commencement. EPILOGUE. Ah, swiftly have flown the sands of our High School time! Few are the grains that remain to measure out the length of High School days allotted us. "Yet a little while" only can we claim the first interests of the Alma Mater so tender, so true, which for four years has been helping us to grow in wisdom and in strength of character; but we shall always be thankful to our beloved Bishop, zealous pastors, fond parents and benefactors for the blessing they put within our reach in giving Altoona a Catholic High School. Before our student eloquence ceases to resound throughout these loved halls, let us pledge our fidelity to Catholic High so that where'er our paths in life may lead, the lessons learned here in "the dear days of old" may so mould our life that we shall be faithful to our standard of Catholic High School days: "Be equal to your trust." - HELEN M. HOLLENSHEAD. [40] A RETROSPECT TIS STRANGE, when we stop to give it a thought, how quickly time does fly - days into months and months into years. No one could convince me of the fact when I was in high school but, now that I recall, time passed too swiftly. I entered the field of industrial endeavor just twenty years ago. In such a position as mine one learns that the world is not so big after all. The outstanding newspaper of today, "We Tell The World", has been the object of my endeavor. I travel far and wide and nearly always meet some person or persons to remind me of my high school days. Many times I have perused the golden pages of this precious Annual, but strange to say, I have never wondered just how our promising class benefited the world. These pictures are all very good. Yes, that's Bergen, a fine looking lad, then. Tony's high ideals almost ruined him. He took to aviation shortly after graduation but his first downfall was enough to induce him to stay on the level. I saw him several times while in Altoona and we always had a good laugh over thoughts of Catholic High. He has a general merchandise store on the corner of 94th Street - dill pickles and ink erasers a specialty. In short, Anthony Berger is a prosperous business man. Ah! the "petite" Miss Ryan! She was the belle of the ball as I remember. Through the success of her writing, Helen acquired a neat fortune which she expended in establishing the "Aged Ladies' Home". Her kind treatment of those under her care is most inspiring. They receive three well-planned meals a day and a marcel wave once a week. The last time I was there Helen said she had my room ready but I am considering this matter seriously for the good of all concerned. Miss Long's favorite pastime was playing with higher mathematics. She has obtained several degrees from Seton Hill College. Her position in the Puzzletown High School is practically permanent. To make good citizens is her aim in life. The American Museum of Arts paid Marian Doran a very large price for her painting of "Custer's Last Rally". She took up painting and has been very successful. I hear she is now working on a portrait of the President's wife. McAleer had something to do with that. Kilcoyne surely was the "short one". To see him now, one would hardly recognize him - almost six feet tall and two feet broad (approximately). Insurance is fine business - so college taught John, and there he is. I have a fifty dollar policy with his company. Imagine fifty dollars being enough to bury me thirty years ago. Times must have changed. Fred Miller, or rather the superintendent of the Public Schools of Altoona, is going into politics headstrong. Apparently he covets some position of importance in Newry - mayor or the like. His platform is more schools, perfect attendance among pupils, and a wide-awake look. Last week I saw this very picture in a book review section. Miss Josephine Doyle's essay on the "Beauties of the Irish Free State" is both educational and interesting. I could almost see the River Shannon flow. [41] Where is Jeannette DeBernardis? Oh, yes, the change of name confused me. Something like Mrs. Scareumuch. She made a brilliant marriage with Count Enuf Scareumuch, formerly of Juniata Gap. After spending some time in various European conservatories, Jeannette made a tour of the United States with Miss Mary Cuzzolina, her secretary. Her rendition of "Woe Is Me" made her famous in Altoona and other points west. Ah, Mademoiselle Hoverre! Rose Marie Hoover, how proud I am to say we went to school together. It was some time before I could locate Rose Marie since she travels under the first title. Yes, she is our Prima Donna. She has taken the world by storm for the past twenty years, especially with her closing number, "Suffer Me To Cease", a composition by Cleo Boggs, famous pianist and composer. Cleo was quite demure but had a goal in view. The musical realm is startled with her ability to make the piano talk. "If I Play You Must Pay" is a very sad selection which she always renders into elegant melody, and needless to say, the audience pays. She is quite well-to-do now, but I do not understand why she never married after her second husband was lost at sea. I read President Charles McAleer's message to Congress in today's paper. One can tell at a glance that Charles is the man for that position. It is a strange coincidence that I know the President personally. He has cordially invited me to visit the White House. Oh, we had some mighty fine specimens of good solid common sense among the Seniors of '27. Joseph Danahy has left home, parents, and friends to devote his time to the service of the foreign missions. His skill as a dentist enables him to have a strong pull over there and many a toothache is soothed by his extracting ways. Some incidents seem rather unexpected, and Father Walker's being Principal of our Catholic High is one of the most peculiar of all. Should the children see their Principal as we Seniors knew him long ago - my - wouldn't they laugh. He thinks that dramatics are essential to the proper development of High School pupils; therefore he directs all the class plays. Now, Reverend Walker adheres strictly to the recognized customs of the institution but he evidently thought it advisable to make some new rules. Every boy must serve his time in the front seats. Just a true friend of the short man - and why shouldn't he be? I wonder how Frances treats the little heathens! Bernardino Riley informs me that she is delighted with their aptitude for learning. Miss Sullivan is surely pursuing the devious way to the ranks but it will not be long now till the Far East is christianized, for Frances never wasted much time or energy. Reverend Leo Dodson, D.D., LL.D., Ph.D., is an ideal priest, working as zealously for souls as any missionary. Very few at school labored as faithfully as Leo, but he is reaping due reward. He is pastor of Sacred Heart which is quite a large parish now. [42] Mr. Leo Schreiber has established a famous needle and thread factory in Sew-Sew, Kalemazora, a recent settlement in the mountains where industrious people make their own clothes since means of conveyance are so scarce. Marguerite Gebhardt and Delphine Airhart have "R.N." added to their names. After several years of successful practice, Marguerite married Doctor Antipane, well-known Duncansville physician. They have lived happily ever since. I think this photo of Leroy Helfrich was the very impetus of his success. D.W. Tripeth was entirely captivated by the innocent look and immediately sent for Helfrich. After years of hard work in movieland Helfrich made himself famous. His work in "Jack in the Bean Stalk" was superb; he took the part of the Giant. "Goosie, Goosie, Gander" is his latest success. I hear he has retired from public activities. The movie lovers have lost another Valentino. Strange that Magdalen Schmitt is the same now as she looks in this picture. A lovely nun she is - quite like her to choose the better part. I have seen her several times in the last ten years. She still likes me well enough to give me a medal and pray for me. Margaret Forsythe always reminded me of Queen Dido. She now reigns supreme in the University of Washington. The intrinsic value of an extensive vocabulary has been more carefully regarded since Margaret began to direct the Latin language. The principle of her text book is "Learn all herein." (Stephens-Doran libraries are affiliated with the Washington University.) For lessons in rumbling, tumbling, reducing, etc., see Miss Hauk, 1427 98th Street. Realizing her dream, Anna has found herself in the land of success. As a Physical Culture teacher she is making Altoona "a perfect 36", with the strength of Leiderman. Her rates are reasonable - that is the best part. She aims to make the woman of tomorrow strong and healthy. George McMullen is United States Minister to England now. This picture of him seems to say "I'm going over". Well, he is there. The English lords did not know they were existing till George arrived. Now they wonder what kind of place America really is but he keeps them in suspense. I never see Gilbert Adams' photo that I do not look for Nick Irvin's. Both shed their silver rays from the sky of progression as famous Grid stars. Harvard would be lost without Nick and is trying its best to take Gilbert from Yale. A professional coach can do better work when a man of equal abilities is with - not - against him. Everything about Terence Wharton's picture bespeaks cleanliness. He surely was a slave to this characteristic. I can remember what a terrible time the teacher had to restrain his eagerness to clean his desk so that order might prevail in the atmosphere. Now he is the owner of a great laundry concern. He attacks dirt with a vicious determination and, with the aid of the laundry, comes forth a victor. [43] This young man probably did not realize he would monopolize the Headlines in such a manner. We knew him as Lee Hoofnagle then, but the world knows him as Professor Hoofnagle now. Henceforth, coco cola can be purchased at the rate of 2 for 5 with the help of a little H2O. Although it is simple, yet it took the deductive reasoning powers of a brain such as Lee possesses to perfect the plan. Oh, my, little do we know what ideas some people harbor! Mr. Howard Fox's Special Retail Company for the distribution of Rat and Cat Skin Coats has been recommended by Dame Fashion. And you, Mr. Fox, have discovered the economic use of such natural pests. Will wonders never cease? Mary Grace Martin and Gertrude Neugebauer constitute the joint ownership of Altoona's foremost gift shop. As business women they are almost perfect. Their social activities keep them in the limelight. No one, but the Salvation Army, really knows what a help they are. Their public concerts (Gertrude warbling to the strains of "Won't You Believe Us?" coming from Mary Grace's ukulele) mean something to such an organization. George Humerick must have believed that there is no such word as "fail" in the vocabulary of persevering people. He is a big man at West Point and the cadets look up to him. His deeds of bravery during the late war have resulted in his pictures being among "Our Heroes." General Humerick's heavy brigade has been immortalized. Miss Washington has figured prominently for many years in the Women's page of the "Sunday News." She has introduced the "one yard dress" with great success. "How to do Housework with the least Possible Exertion" gives the bride a pleasing way to spend the honeymoon; it never lasts much longer. Kathleen is a quiet mother and an ideal wife. Had Woolworth or McCrory known that this young lady was to be the cause of their anguish I wonder what would have happened. Josephine Senkow's "4¢ and 9¢" Store where cash prices get the preference is progression personified. Elizabeth Buschle has helped Josephine somewhat. Two great heads are better than one. I knew the Sisters of St. Agnes would eventually claim Regina Meyers. She walks worthy of her calling and is just as efficient as she was in High School. We can imagine we hear her say, "Intelligent study with comprehensive research; I had to study three hours every night and you are no brighter than I was as a High School pupil". She is somewhat of an asset to Blue Knob High School. While on a visit to the latter institution, she surprised me by introducing Sister Felicitas (formerly Bernardine Riley) who specializes in elocution and the culinary arts. She delighted me by having her class do the Skater's Dance. "Do you remember my part in that?" she asked. How could I ever forget that important event of our school life? I wonder if Bill McAleer ever thinks of his school days when he looks at these pictures. He was the "salt" of Senior B, and often "pepper" to some of our teachers. His innate kindness to dumb animals caused him [44] to take up the life of a veterinary surgeon. He owns Altoona's Exclusive Pet Shop, - he was always discriminating in choice of pets. Persian cats and Shetland ponies are his favorites. Undoubtedly the Stephens-Doran Libraries were the outgrowth of High School training. These libraries aim to give to the public the best reading matter at the least cost. They have able and competent management in each of the fifteen libraries. School pupils receive special attention. William's latest masterpiece was sold for many months at fifty cents a copy. "See?" is a well-planned story, however. It includes Ed Doran's principles, too. He constantly warns school students that study is the only ship that will land them safely. Their pictures appear in nearly all the papers but these pictures in the Annual will always be the best. Gustav Burkhart has been appointed to the post of Attorney-General of the United States. Gus was admitted to the bar in 1935 and his political success was at once assured. This picture is often put in the papers when Gus holds sway over the "Who's Who" column. His skillful solution of the Stolen Tooth Brush Mystery caused much ado in Hollidaysburg. The Western Union Telegraph Company had a great interest in Bob Fochler's welfare. The company has been repaid threefold. He has perfected an apparatus by which communication with Mars and Mercury is made possible. This achievement places his name with Fulton, Edison, Bell and others. In speaking with an inhabitant of Mars, Robert learned that the other planets think the earth very distant. "Rig up an airplane and come out to see us," they shouted. Robert is planning a "going-out" party. The old Seniors will probably be included among the guests. I can remember when Thurston thrilled Altoona's populace, but his place has long since been taken by James O'Donnell, world's famous Impersonator, Magician and professional Tomfoolerist. He can imitate all the animals, change water into mud, and make the audience ring with laughter all for thirty-five and fifty cents. Helen Costlow has reached a goal. Her studio of music is the scene of higher attainment. For years she has supervised the early training of promising musicians. I suppose she has quite a delightful class since she serves hot chocolate and cake after each lesson. Did she learn this at Catholic High? Dr. Helen Hollenshead is very professional as one should expect. She favors American modern modes of cooking, and thinks, too, that boys should play football. Hasn't she an eye to business? It is all in the game, you know. The Hollidaysburg Hospital would be wanting in efficiency without Miss Gill. A girl like Bernice is an asset to any institution. She handles the patients with care, but uses her judgment at times. While on duty she frequently hears her admiring patients exclaiming, "Oh, What a Nurse!" Miss Chase lives up to her name. She has been chasing school children here and there in various classrooms for some years back. She [45] is an ardent advocate of common sense and constantly tells the children that they are not what their good mothers and fathers were. (The Inevitable Discussion.) "The Doctrine of Women's Rights" always comes to my mind when I look at Bertha Geisler's picture. This question was well defined in various sections of the United States by our representative in Congress, Miss Geisler. Altoona will be brought into national prominence now since Miss Geisler and President McAleer are permitted to talk. Several of the commercial girls who pursued a life of single blessedness have prominent government positions - Harriet Culp and Bertha Greiner are secretaries in Departments of Bootlegging and Disposition of Vanity Cases, respectively. As Supervisor of Music, Miss Feeney has been unsurpassed. She holds a prominent position in the leading High Schools of Philadelphia. With her able assistance, choral clubs throughout the city have been organized. "Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast." Oh, yes, this is Agnes Mignogna. Ah, you were sweet then, but now you have attained, to a great extent, a marked degree of perfection, since you have given up everything in pursuit of spiritual perfection. I have heard that you are an ideal nun. Shorthand, bookkeeping, typewriting, are all made easy by your skillful teaching. "If the children miss, I'm not too harsh; after school will be plenty of time to make up lost work," says Sister Merle. Barnum and Bailey have been reincarnated in the forms of Harlow and McCormick. I am always assured of a free ticket to the afternoon performance for in spite of all their fame they still glory in meeting any of the "Old Seniors". They began at the bottom of the ladder with only an obstinate mule, but adding a dog or a cat, now and then, with an elephant thrown in for good measure, made them what they are today. The heart of Miss Schnaubelt has been won by Patrick O'Hara. The name sounds Irish but of course one can not be too sure. Catherine's life has been a great success and especially since the recent change of name. They say Mr. O'Hara is quite well-to-do. He must have seen this picture. Reverend. Schmittle is dignity in its highest degree. He has been the pastor for a number of years at St. James, the new church at Bellwood. They say he has peculiar ways but all the parishioners like him, so what could be the ultimatum but success? The Costello business college has satisfied a life-long need in Altoona. More efficient business women are the inevitable result of such thorough training. The social Welfare Organization was greatly benefited [sic] by Marie Ernest's capable assistance. She devoted her life to the service of others and her work is pleasant and profitable in more ways than one. Casey's Dress Shop for the Women who want to be different, is patronized by the Elite. Ann's very look bespeaks individuality. Oh, that is the grand finale of these glorious representations. How did the Seniors of '27 benefit the world? I know now. This little soliloquy [46] has helped me in many ways. Fields of various professions have been entered with enthusiasm. Doctors, nurses, authors, artists, politicians, missionaries, sisters, priests - all these and other professions have been embraced by one or another. May they always be equal to their trust and may they never forget those glorious days at Catholic High. - M. COLLETTE LEAHEY. THE RAVIN' Oh! distinctly they remember, it was in bright September, And each Freshman, newly entered, stood so timid at the door. Hearts that trembled filled with wonder, o'er a thousand things they ponder Beat more rapid as in silence and despair they tread the floor, Beat more rapid as they entered, entered but to dare explore - Only this and nothing more. With the end of two semesters, some of them ceased being jesters Always filled with hopes that ever grew in import and in size, But their purpose 'twas uncertain, shaded by a misty curtain Since the very learned Sophomore thinks that he is, oh, so wise. Said he, "I shall show my spirit; to the highest I shall rise, To the highest I shall rise." Junior prospects seemed no brighter since their tasks were far from lighter Sadly some already sang bleak songs of woe and of fear; Others plodded on ungainly; teachers' dictates echoed plainly, Teachers' voices only echoed on their seeming deafened ears Tracing vainly images so very far from being clear Oh! far from being clear. Since the end is drawing nearer, Senior year is much the dearer And the bright dawn of the future seems much closer than before; Yet the lessons firmly printed and applied in full - unstinted - Well will aid them in their task of filling up deep Learning's store To forge ahead with things quite clear though hidden - to those who tried before The treasure of the Muses' lore. In the years that they'll be lonely, comfort may be theirs in only Happy memories of the days that have so pleasantly gone by And their hearts will e'er be yearning, school days vividly returning Pictured in the graphic happ'nings that will-never, never die, For they bring back gladdened memories of our dear old Catholic High, Of our dear old Catholic High. (With deepest apology to Edgar Allen Poe.) - L.S. HOOFNAGLE. [47] [photo] GIRLS' CHORAL CLUB [48] CLASS WILL WE THE MEMBERS of the Class of 1927 of Altoona Catholic High School, in the County of Blair, and the State of Pennsylvania, being about to pass out from this sphere of intellectual bliss, in full possession of indisputably sound and well-disposed minds and of an enormous power of understanding, declare this to be our Last Will and Testament, to be published and executed immediately upon the termination of our High School Career: Firstly: To our Right Reverend Bishop, John Joseph McCort, D.D., we extend our hearts' sincerest gratitude and the assurance that we will never forget his interest in our welfare. Secondly: We bequeath to our esteemed Principal the whole-hearted acknowledgment of the fact that all we know and all that we hope to prove we have attained mentally is due to his ability in the line of schedule making - lest he should think the hours he devoted blocking that chart were spent in vain. All the cherished playthings which he so cleverly confiscated, he may have and hold as souvenirs of the thereby favored ones. May he accept a few additional treasures; Gustav Burkhart's mouth organ, "William Esquire's" Sax and purple sweater, Anthony Berger's disposition, Leroy Helfrich's rattle, Kathleen Washington's Vanity Case, Marguerite Gebhardt's Autograph, Harriet Culp's African Galiff balls, Hazel Costello's boxing gloves. Thirdly: We give and bequeath to our dear faculty, who have steered us across the stormy tide and landed us safely in the port of honest toil, rest and peace till the end of time. We wish our teachers to know that every honor and every success that in future may be gained by any of their Seniors will redound to their reward, since it was their instructions that prepared the way for us. Fourthly: To the Juniors we bequeath the revered title of Seniors, which they may alter at their own expense by prefixing such appropriate attributes as dignified, sophisticated and the like. We likewise give the Juniors: Dodson's studious disposition; Rose Marie Hoover's melodious voice; and Walker's dramatic attitude. Fifthly: We bequeath to the Sophomores the overbundance of the spirit of brotherly love that characterized us. May they profit by the supineness that marked their sister class. We bequeath, also to, to said Sophomores the unfailing memories of the Seniors, so that they may never forget the golden rules of the School. Sixthly: To the Freshmen we bequeath our propensity to study never less than three hours every evening. Also, we [49] graciously give to these verdant youngsters, our spirit of kind hospitality that they may treat their coming friends as they should like to have been treated. Seventhly: To the darling infant Freshmen-to-be, we transmit our sworn testimony that four years is not so long a time as it seems, that Latin becomes easier as the Fourth year approaches, that Algebra is not entirely a language of signs, that Ancient History gives inspiration for modern ideas, that study is esential [sic]to the success of every High School student. Eighthly: To Mrs. Stowe, we bequeath a motley crowd of famished underclassmen to grace the banquet of her domain. Ninthly: To Mr. Joseph Mack, we leave our gratitude for the warmth of heart he has dispensed to us through the medium of the furnace. We also bequeath him our hearty wish that some magic chemical solution might be discovered to keep the windows clean by a simple evaporation process and a push button to start a current to remove dust. Tenthly: To our Principal's secretary we bequeath the cash balance remaining in the 1927 class treasury for the purchase of a "kitty-kar" or an aeroplane, since going his rounds necessitates a great deal of travelling. In Witness whereof, we, the Officers of the Class of '27, set our hands and seals on this, the first day of May, Anno Domini, one thousand nine hundred and twenty-seven. Signed, GUSTAV BURKHART, HELEN HOLLENSHEAD, MAGDALEN SCHMIDT, NICHOLAS IRVIN. REMINISCENCES 'Tis a bright summer day, quite early in June, The breezes softly blowing, the birds keeping tune, And, sitting alone in my own dreamy way, My thoughts wander back to my happy schooldays. I faintly recall, in those sweet years gone by, Those gay, happy days spent in Catholic High; Those parties, those dances that we used to hold, Are now sweetest mem'ries that love can enfold. And deep, in my heart, are those friendships so dear I shall never forget them, be life glad or drear, Those old days of laughter and gayety fled But not their rose perfume by memory shed. - CLEO M. BOGGS. [50] SHALL I BE EQUAL TO MY TRUST? OUR HOUSE IS put in order." The curtains are about to be drawn upon the second class to which our Alma Mater has given four years of painstaking preparation for the special mission that in God's plan each shall fulfill in life. We have long anticipated our journey's end as an occasion of rejoicing. Incidents, many and varied; tasks, some irksome, some pleasurable, fill up a space of four long high school years and make the "vision" that the prophet says "the young shall see" always brighter than the present. With the end at hand now, we find ourselves reflecting; we realize that our "visions" in the past have brought us only to a division point, marking the completion of one and the beginning of another period of our lives. The subject of serious thought is the future, for which the work of the past has been but a preparation. The setting for such thoughts is in a way ideal. Graduation time creates a spirit that helps clear thinking, arouses enthusiasm and helps us to form sensible resolutions, as, with big-eyed wonder, we look out upon a world of pressing problems. That graduation is a great event, that leaving school is a great step, we have learned from the sentiments expressed and the experiences reported by the one class that has preceded us. The change from study into the life studied for, from training into the activities trained for, and from being guided by others into the guidance of self, calls for a diligent exercise of self mastery. Of course, the problems that confront us are the same ones that every young man and woman must meet. But how shall I succeed with them? Considering the privilege that we have had of receiving our preparation for life in a Catholic school, we cannot go through life with so few obligations as many others. Education based upon moral and religious principles furnishes a more thorough understanding of duty; therefore, it means greater obligations, for, "To whom much is given, from him much shall be expected," and surely we are among those to whom much has been given. We have been of the "little ones," whom our blessed Savior would have "come unto Him." We are of those who, through the determination of our dear Right Reverend Bishop to see us educated for God, have been "suffered" to spend the most impressionable years of life in the Master's school under the direction of teachers who have no ambition but to see the kingdom of God spread upon the earth. Here in the Catholic High School we have been taught that duty and not pleasure is the end of life; we have been given a training in all the subjects prescribed for a secondary school course, but we have been urged to love only the things worth while, the things that count for eternity. Shall we always be faithful? Shall we always "look to the end" in solving our problems? Dear Classmates, let us take a look into the future; let us find ourselves ten, twenty, thirty years hence, if God gives us that length [51] of days. Let the look be a thoughtful look that does not forget the energy expended upon us by our loved Principal and teachers, let it be a brave look that sees us facing disappointments, and above all, temptations; let it be a look that will form itself into purposeful resolutions as we decide what our conduct in the future will be. Such timely thinking done in the spirit of our class virtue, sincerity, and resumed hereafter from time to time, may enable us to say in future, perhaps in some great crisis in our lives, as we look back upon this time, "Thank God, I have thus far been equal to my trust." - CHARLES A. McALEER MOTHER OF GOOD COUNSEL NO WORD strikes so responsively on the human heart as Mother. It has a charm all its own, for it speaks of the best friend we have. When worries disturb us, when adversity tries us, we go unhesitatingly to her for counsel. And whether she receives us with words of advice or of admonition, her precepts dissipate the darkness and bring the bright light of peace to our troubled souls. Ah, yes, such is the God-bestowed power of an earthly Mother. Her office is a holy one, indeed. But how much more powerful, how much more compassionate is that Mother in Heaven whom God gave to us as an intercessor and counselor. By reason of her Divine Maternity, we may always be certain of receiving valuable help from her, even if we are surrounded by the darkest clouds of despair. When the temptations of the world torment us, Our Blessed Mother is always near to help us; ever-faithful, ever-ready is she in the fulfillment of her chosen task. If in need of the necessities of life, a fervent, persistent prayer to the Virgin Mother of God will bring us either what we ask, or at least comfort and consolation in the deprivation of it. And is not the Blessed Virgin's very example in her conduct counsel to us? She called herself the handmaid of the Lord; she served God and his creatures in sweet humility, giving us the example of that charity, the reward of which is the Kingdom of Heaven. Her life was one of usefulness; she was a "valiant" woman, and was rewarded by being called "The Mother of All the Living." What a blessing it is to be of the faith that gives us confidence in the counsels of one so close to the Heart of God Himself! To be within the fold of the Church which gives her to us as our Mother! Mother of Good Counsel, pray always for the members of the class of '27, who dedicate themselves to you and salute you as their special patron. - ANNA M. HAUK. [52] A FAREWELL WORD TO THE FACULTY TIME'S fleet pace has sped us hastily to the close of High School life. With St. Paul we may reflect upon the sweetly solemn thought, "I have finished my course." Ah! the splendor of many a youthful dream grows dim as we pause at this time of reckoning and in a reflective mood look back over the memory pictures that four golden years have fashioned. Treasures of many forms hold place on these gallery walls, but the most perfect among our memory souvenirs are those that record the deeds of labor and sacrifice that you, devoted members of our faculty, have unselfishly wrought in our behalf. By your shining example, by the earnestness of your manner of dealing with us, by your disregard of self, you have imparted to us lessons of practical truth and devotion to duty which, if carried with us through life, will steer us upon the straight course of an honorable and upright future. Often indeed in the "keen steady pressure" of school work did we set down our successes as the work of our own hands and brains. A short mental review forces us to admit that often we did not appreciate the worth of the lessons so often demonstrated to us. Now, however, wise with the wisdom that comes from experiences passed, and assured that you well know that "youth is not over-thoughtful," we wish to offer you a grateful tribute of love and praise, and to say we most heartily pray that - "God will bless all work that lies before your hands." - GUSTAV H. BURKHART. THE ROSE SELDOM, if ever, is there found a flower more beautiful or more popular than the rose. At one time or other in the life of nearly every one the rose plays an important part. Over two thousand years ago in the city of Athens the rose was named "The Queen of Flowers". During the years which elapsed from that time to the present, it has never been known that the rose has lost its glory or, moreover, forfeited any of its popularity. There is no flower so symbolic of all those qualities, ideals, and virtues which we, as a class and individuals are striving so hard to obtain as those manifested in the rose. The rose has been an inspiration to numberless authors and artists, the subject of many songs, as well as an expression of love and sympathy. Having selected the rose as our class flower we should love and appreciate it, not only because it is so very beautiful, the Queen of Flowers, but also because of the love, loyalty, charity and sincerity which it symbolizes, and most of all, because it is the flower associated with our Blessed Mother, and the favorite flower of the patroness of our school - St. Therese - The Little Flower of Jesus. -HELEN C. RYAN. [53] A TALK ON TIME I DIDN'T have time," is the daily response of the artless school boy. The time-saving business-man urges, "We'll rush this through before closing hour." "Time's on the wing," sings the merry haymakers' band. Time - to get the most out of time - to save time, is the universal slogan. Time is the most precious thing in all the world, and yet "we take no note of it but from its loss." Artists cartoon time in a variety of forms, the best known and the most meaningful being a picture of a tottering old man with an hourglass and a scythe. Shakespeare depicts "Old Time" once as a bald old sexton setting a wall clock, again as "the whirligig of time," and others call time "a bold cheater," a "swift flowing sea whose waves quench the radiance of youth's brow." But the artist and the poet are both fanciful, too idealistic. Today time is almost worshipped. It is coming to be the standard of linear measure. The pleasure and profit derived from eating, sleeping, working and playing are measured by the length of time devoted to each. Autoists [sic] now tell you the distance from city to city in hours, not in miles, because mile-reckoning would necessitate time for mental calculation. Friends nowadays rarely pay visits or write letters to each other. They use the telephone instead, for the reason that it requires less time. The man of the day, then, is the one who is efficient in any particular task to get the most out of the minute. "Time is money" was an adage that Benjamin Franklin recommended. Saving time in his day meant using time profitably. But hours formerly are now estimated as minutes; saving time today does not give our generation a moment to spare. If you ask the business man in the rush of our times to interest himself in your cause, he will usually contribute financially, but ask him for his time and he will be "too busy." The machinery of his business must not be retarded. Practically all the mechanical inventions of the last half century have been labor-saving devices. What marvelous conservation of time in the modern business office! A letter is shouted into a dictaphone, this machine repeats it to a typist, it is then sealed, stamped and post-marked automatically, then delivered perhaps by airplane or by automobile. And so, time is being conserved in all the world's work. It is the saving of time that accounts for the progress the world is making materially. How strange it is, though, that this time element which is making business so efficient, and still continues as it ever did, to "make man homely," is not making mankind wise! - GEORGE J. McMULLEN. [54] THERE'S MUSIC IN THE AIR IT IS the afternoon of a delightful day in early spring. The windows are opened admitting the balmy breezes that invite study-weary spirits to the out-of-doors. Listen! What sweet and harmonious voices! "Sol, la, ti, do - do, ti, la, sol, up and down the musical scale, then nu-nu-nu-nu"! Where can they be? It sounds like a choir of songbirds but no, the voices are human. Listening attentively at the open windows for a few minutes, I traced the sound to the first floor. Clearer and clearer became the tones, yet softer and sweeter. Yes, the music came from the Sophomore Girls' room; they were singing songs that would "soothe any savage breast." How often we Seniors envied the Freshmen and Sophomores the privilege of unburdening their spirits on the wings of song. Indeed Music has charms that please the ear and delight the soul. The Girls' Choral Club with its fifty voices, at practice on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, entertains any listener with delightful classical selections. Their tuneful carols as part of the Christmas Musical given by the High School told beautifully the story of Christ's holy coming. But the music which most violently stirs our hearts comes from the orchestra. Twenty-five of our boys and girls - blowers of the "Sax," the cornet, the trumpet, the clarinet, and drawers of the bow devote several hours a week to the art of harmonizing the sweet sounds their talent is able to produce. The melody of their notes sweetened the air of Altoona on several occasions - the scelections [sic] they played for the Christmas and St. Patrick's Day programs delighted many musical ears. How could any lover of patriotic music fail to give a vote of thanks to our little "Vic" for the persistency with which it urges our typists to move their fingers to the beat of the "National Emblem March"? And still more music! Just eaves-drop in the vicinity of Senior B during French period. "Quand trois poules" is the favorite past-time selection of our Reverend French Professor. Chickens, as all know, are the favorite prey of hawks so is this selection the favorite ditty of our "Hauk". So there is music all round us at Catholic High School. Even Mr. Mack has caught the spirit for he, too, sings as he labors. - MARGUERITE T. GEBHARDT. [55] [photo] [Orchestra] [56] THE GARMENT THAT OUR NATION WEARS WHEN COLUMBUS traced the first pathway westward across the dancing waters of the Atlantic, he knew not the possibilities that were in waiting to crown his perilous undertaking with glory. He little knew that he was opening up the way for the foundation of political liberty and for a recognition of the value of individual rights. Three hundred years were to pass, though, before the land of his finding was to receive the seeds of liberty. Then did our ancestors wisely design their ideals of freedom, develop them, and give them to us in the Constitution of the United States, a political document, the most remarkable of its kind in all the world. Freedom from oppression was the motive, the spirit, which caused the fearless American colonists to demand liberty, and, by force, to wrest it from the greatest of the earthly powers of that day. Respect for the basic principles of true constitutionalism, an appreciation of moral restraint, and the patience to endure trials, were qualities requisite for true liberty that were common to these colonists. However, their real declaration of liberty and opinion of Constitutional government was not made until the statesmen of '76 drew up the Constitution and added their signatures on that memorable September 17, 1787. The Constitution of the United States gave the people sovereignty through a law-making body and a supreme executive, but that supreme executive is so held in check that he can do nothing to infringe upon the rights of the individual, for the protection of whose rights the Constitution was established. Our Constitution became the subject of laughter among Europeans because they could not understand how a nation, founded upon the will of its citizens, could possibly exist. But through a series of most strenuous tests, this mere piece of parchment, as it was regarded by Europeans, has always proved itself capable of suppressing all attacks and challenges by rebellious fanatics. Had the Constitution failed, however, the wholehearted American people, by their confidence in the justice of their ideals and the strength of their convictions, could even in such an extremity have defended the "unalienable rights" of man - life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. America has a frame of government which has remained unchanged since its adoption; in the quality of her constitutional principles she stands alone. And she will retain this position as long as there is an American, a true American, to defend her sacred laws. William Pitt was far-seeing when he prophesied that our Constitution would be "the admiration of future generations and a model for future constitutional endeavor." Must we not, as citizens of the United States, prepare ourselves to preserve the "pearl of great price" - Liberty? To do so we should strengthen ourselves in youth against dissension by educating ourselves in an understanding of our government; by studying the problems confronting [57] our nation at the present day, and by profiting by mistakes of indifferent citizens surrounding us in the same way as the noble founders of our national government profited by the mistakes of the makers of the other forms of government. Let us stand ever loyal to that unblemished document of national sovereignty, the Constitution of the United States - the "garment that our nation wears." -PAUL J. WALKER. A SCHOLAR'S SOLILOQUY To sleep or not to sleep - that is the question: Whether 'tis better under blankets to enjoy The warmth and comfort of an extra slumber' Or to take arms against all lazy habits And by opposing, end them? To sleep - to dream No more; and by a sleep to know we end The history test and all the other lessons The poor pupil must prepare for - 'tis examination Not at all to hope for - To sleep, to dream? To try perchance to win - ay there's the rub - For in that day of days, to be so dumb For that we've failed to study, night b'fore, Must make us shrink; there's the respect That makes the trouble in our high school life, For who desires the start of such a day: - The teacher's song, the report card's contumely The bang's of o'ersized gloves, the child's relay The trip to office and the sojourn That one late to school must take When he himself might his quietus make By yield to sleep? Who would lessons learn? To think and ponder under dreary strife But that the need of something after school, - The cruelty of the world - in which place Each must earn - puzzles the will And makes us make the most of what we have Rather than take the road which may be rough. Thus intellect does sweeten all the gall And weak-willed bitterness of tribulation Is coated o'er with great sweetness of thought And such attempts as rouse to energy The lazy youth at rest Who thus inspired doth face the fatal day And seeks the school of action. C. LEAHEY. (An apology to Shakespeare) [58] THE VOTE, AN INSTRUMENT OF HUMAN PROGRESS THE method of arriving at decisions by use of the vote, which is employed by all present day institutions, originated in the ancient Witans of the Anglo-Saxons. Previous to the adoption of this practice, fighting was the barbarian custom of settling disputes. The sword and the cudgel for this use disappeared, however, with the advance of Christian influences. The vote as an instrument of human progress must be given recognition. The most popular criticism is that it has created in too many minds the notion that the settlement of disputes is the most important occupation of humanity. Many people who hold this opinion simply settle down to a life of quiet unconcern about politics, and presume to pursue the joys of life by living on terms of kindly good feeling toward mankind, in the enjoyment of the beautiful things of life, and in the personal pleasure that their position in life makes it possible for them to obtain. But the settling of disputes is a matter gravely important. Personal liberty cannot be obtained except by this power. Democracies can exist only by the consent of the governed, and favor or dissent must be expressed by the vote. Strange to say, here in our own United States, which a hundred and fifty years ago, based its claim for independence on England's refusal to grant it representation, and where, after independence was obtained, the experiment of popular government on a large scale was tried for the first time, indifference to voting is yearly growing to an alarming extent. Yet, our American people seem to have unbounded faith in our system of government. Their principal concern, however, seems to be to protect it from being "reformed" by contending political parties. Do they not seem to forget, then, that "there is no right without it's [sic] duty"? Personal liberties must be maintained through the ballot. Failure to vote is serious because it is the class of people who are best informed and most unselfish that are abstaining from it. "Gang" groups use the power of voting as a license to put down the great man and elect the corrupt briber. Personalities, not principles, nor real issues, influence them. This class that actually constitute the minority of the population are in the majority at the poles; indeed, political corruption and public indifference about voting are both becoming serious. Shall we see the glory of the builders of our great nation fade through the indifference of their posterity? Our schools are "training us for citizenship" - training us "in the right use of the vote." These lessons together with the Christian principles instilled through our training in religion, will, let us earnestly hope, make us proud to use the privilege of the ballot when we reach the voting age. Let us then be alive to the needs of patriotism, remembering that, "He who stands And sees the mighty vehicle of state Hauled through the mire to some ignoble fate And makes not such bold protest as he can Is no American." - ROBERT C. FOCHLER. [59] TWO VIEWS OF AN "ACCOMPLISHED GENTLEMAN". NATURE had abundantly favored him. He was a tall, pink-complexioned blonde, with dark brown hair well-lustered and slicked back and a mustachio and low-cut sideburns. A lightly powdered chin and daintily "pinked" nails displayed a touch of effeminacy. Yes, it was evident that nature had favored him with a "collegiate" figure, and the purse of over-fond parents had provided him with a stylish wardrobe filled with the up-to-date in "classy" apparel. Indeed he was a specimen of the "almighty dollar", better suited for a tailor's dummy than a business man. His favorite free-time rendezvous was the corner drug-store doorway, where, "dolled out" in his latest, he usually stood with his hands in the pockets of his bell-bottom trousers, or sometimes busied himself rearranging the carnation which regularly bedecked his coat lapel, while he talked of little nothings to companions of his own type. His evenings were generally devoted either to motoring or teaching the "fast set" the latest steps in dancing. Indeed, he could dance better than anyone in his crowd, and because of this ability he was most popular with the debutantes. He held a position as clerk with a wholesale firm. Through the fortunate favor of paternal prestige, his hopes for promotion ran high. The first and last act of his daily routine was to order the office-boy to brush his suit and shoes. Much of the intervening time was devoted to such wholesome interruptions as watching for opportunities to serve the fair office maidens by acts of gentlemanly courtesy. How often did his ultra-modern female admirers remark, "He is an accomplished gentleman!" This charming sheik had one rival. Recently another young man had entered the wholesale house as an accountant and was rapidly forcing himself into the hearts of his employers. He was a man of marked ability, unusual tact and good common sense; more-over, he was always neat in appearance, obliging, but courteously reserved. He enjoyed the forms of recreation ordinarily indulged in by young men, but his duties at the office, - planning and systematizing, - occupied most of his free time and serious thought. Much to the stylish clerk's annoyance, the newcomer was soon receiving the attention of the entire office force. Finally, the announcement was made that the prospective promotion was assigned to him, because, as his employers stated, "He is an accomplished gentleman." The ne'er-do-well remained stationary, always hoping that the combined intervention of his father's financial prestige and his rival's generosity would yet bring an advancement. He slowly began to realize that the commercial world is looking for leaders in business, not leaders in society. -WILLIAM F. STEPHENS. [60] WE, THE PRIVILEGED SENIORS WHEN WE first entered dear old Catholic High, we thought we had advanced within a few steps of heaven. The first few weeks were splendid, but e'er long accomplishments of Latin and Algebra were more resplendent and many a tear we shed over them. The ordeal came, however, when we chanced to hear a group of Seniors "of four years" remark, "Look at those Freshies, they make themselves so conspicuous." But deep down in our hearts we entertained a sort of innocent envy of them. In spite of all this, experiences and memories of our Freshman year are very dear to all. The days became weeks and the weeks soon turned into months and before we could fully realize it we had begun our Sophomore year. With the assurance that we were no longer "Green Freshies," our fear lessened, so that we no longer gazed at the Seniors with awestricken countenances. Hitherto, we had believed they were immune from criticism or punishment, but when we beheld a "Dignified Senior" on the "carpet," as it is called, we knew from his down-hearted manner that all was not well. After this we observed many a Senior travelling the "Royal Road." At the beginning of the third year, to our entire satisfaction, we ascended from the first to the third floor, and found ourselves in a room labelled "Commercial B". Not only our height increased, but also our studies. Some of us thought that we would have no more Latin or History, but along came Shorthand, Book-keeping, and Business Arithmetic, and they proved to be far more difficult than Latin or Algebra. The interest with which these new studies filled us took our minds from the Seniors for a time at least. Then, after attending a few of our school parties we found that they were human and from that time on they were taken as a matter of course. All this was nothing compared to the feelings sensed by all at our first Senior meeting. How triumphant we all felt! After three long years of waiting, we at last learned what we, as Seniors, could and could not do; that it was not only glorious, but also dangerous to be a Senior. "Long live the Seniors!" It gave us a sort of superior feeling to see the Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors cast longing glances toward our class-rooms as they roamed through the halls. When they reach the third floor, no doubt, they sometimes sense the feeling that was ours in the past when the third floor was reached. If our privileges, as Seniors, increase, so also do our duties multiply. If others think we receive less watching, it is because we should need less watching. "The more one is marked with honorable scars of battle the more he shall realize that the real privileges of power imply increased duties." This is the status of Seniors. -ANN CASEY. [61] ECHOES OF YESTERDAY IF SOMEONE had told me twenty years ago that Fortune and Providence would direct me thus, I should never have believed him. Here I am seated in my own conservatory, surrounded by every comfort one should desire, reading over the daily news. But what is this? "Catholic High Alumni Banquet to be held in celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Association." Oh, how much I desire to see once more those old classmates, some of whom I have not seen since our school days. Reading this over and over again, to be certain that it is true, my thoughts seem to wander far away, even to dreams - for it does not seem possible that twenty-five years have elapsed since I was a pupil at Catholic High. I find myself in the classroom again. There are all my classmates, and I among them. But what is this scene so familiar to me? Oh, yes, I vaguely remember; it is that "beloved" History period. How many times did we try to escape the notice of the teacher, but after thinking we had been very successful, that name most familiar to each one of us was called. This summons usually ended up with the saying, "Stay in and study until you know it." Here is another subject - Latin, where we learned that the more we studied, the less we knew. How we used to sigh and wonder if we should ever be free from that everlasting study. One day our attention was attracted by that famous strategem of the Wooden Horse which the Greeks brought into Troy. It was then that we thought how well a little ride on our pony would be. Many happy moments did we spend in that class. Then, another language - French-that period we all loved. "Conjugate the verb 'porter' in its entirety" - how familiar are these words, or, "Recite that little poem, `La Cigale et la Fourmi,' " or perhaps, "Sing a little French song." The teacher always addressed us by "Mr." or "Miss" to remind us of our Senior dignity. Finally, our English period, where "Hamlet" seemed to have the principal attention. But very often when our interest was at its highest point, the sweet aroma of the kitchen seemed to find its way up those back stairs, just trying to torment us. Those many faces so familiar to me seem to dim and finally vanish. Alas! I awake to find that in my dreams I had spent one morning as I did years ago in that dear old Catholic High School. I recall what I had been reading, and much greater now is my desire to visit the place which afforded me so much pleasure in youth and fond memories in my older days. - CLEO M. BOGGS. [62] "THE PLAY'S THE THING" THE story of Christ's Nativity as a theme for Christmastide celebrations is an old, old one, but with all its oldness it is ever appealing. "Echoes from Bethlehem," a simple and beautiful miracle play, written by Father Finn, the Jesuit writer so well known by boy readers, was presented by members of the Senior Class on Thursday evening, December 16th. The play is of one act, consisting of drama and tableau. It portrays the story of the miraculous healing of a crippled Gentile youth on the night of Christ's birth, and of the conversion to a living faith in the Eternal God, of the youth, of his brother, and the brother of Herod, because of their belief in the mystery of the Savior's birth. "The play's the thing," thought the boys, as they were commended for their fine interpretation of the parts and their splendid portrayal of the familiar historic personages presented. Even the writer himself was complimented for showing some dramatic ability in the execution of the part of Ariel, the Gentile youth. The role of his devoted brother, Benoni, was well acted by Paul Walker, whose excellent tone quality and stage manners put him in the lead of the players. The part of Manahan, the brother of Herod, could not have been better performed by any other boy than Gustav Burkhart. George Humerick and Paul Harlow mastered well the performance of their parts and made typical Greek and Roman converts. The Shepherds - Leo Schreiber, Charles McCormick, Gilbert Schmittle and Charles McAleer - delivered their "joyful tidings" with impressiveness. A tableau of the Nativity scene closed the performance of the evening. Regina Meyers as the Virgin Mother, William Stephens as Saint Joseph, and a band of "heavenly host" selected from the Girls' Choral Club made an effective grouping for the finale. But the play was only the supplement of a delightful Christmas-time program. The Girls' and Boys' Choral Clubs furnished a number of select choruses, cantatas and solos appropriate to the season. Then a last, but by no means indifferent word of praise must be extended to the High School Orchestra for the inspiring Christmas selections it rendered to add to the popularity of the evening's production. Christmases-to-be will always bring pleasant recollections of our last one spent in dear Catholic High. -GEORGE J. McMULLEN [63] [photo] [Cast of "Echoes from Bethlehem"] [64] THOUGHT WEBSTER in his "Bunker Hill Oration" defines thought as the process by which human ends are ultimately answered. Thought, the most important factor in life, is the essential characteristic of action. Circumstances condition our lives to some extent but thought is its principal root. The influence of thought upon character is very great since it is the impelling force of many deeds. Thought may be distinguished from imagination in that it is towards objects capable of existing, without involving any belief in their existence. Madam Swetchine proclaims, "To have ideas is to gather flowers, to think is to weave them into garlands." Thoughts suggest new ideas and open channels for action. Thinking enables us to become leaders of those less fortunate ones who have never been trained to think as we have, or those who will not use the talents which our Lord has given them. Since Divine Providence has enabled us to spend many years in a Catholic High School which tends to promote thoughtful habits of mind and enables us to assume some responsibility, we should make use of these wonderful qualities in becoming good citizens of the United States and in doing all in our power for the welfare of the community in which we live. Ever since we entered the Altoona Catholic High four years ago the teachers, to the best of their ability, have struggled hard to train our minds to think. They have insisted that we learn certain subjects which require a great amount of concentration. And now that we are about to leave our Alma Mater, we should choose a vocation that will bring us happiness and one in which we may help to do good to others for we have given this subject sufficient thought. None of us wish to be carried away with exaggerated anticipations of pleasure, honor and happiness. There are few people who think before acting. Though man is endowed with the power of reason, and through the exercise of this power may arrive at a clear understanding of what he should do, he does not always use this power. Between the thought and the deed there may be a little inconsistency. It is this want of thought that causes man to be a failure in life, or that causes him to make so many irreparable mistakes. We should guard our thoughts with a jealous eye. In the advice which Polonius gives to his son Laertes on parting he says, "Give thy thoughts no tongue." Keep them to yourself so that they may not become the possessions of another for they are heaven's sent patrimony with which we may be able to secure honor, fame and glory. "Hearts that are right are always lone They never will manifest their best, Their greatest greatness is unknown Earth knows a little-God, the rest." - REGINA E. MEYERS. [65] GREATFUL [sic] APPRECIATION Our library is growing. It is a department in our school which is the center of much intellectual activity. Catholic High students, on the whole, realize the value of good reading and devote much time climbing the hills and scanning the valleys of our great writers' thoughts and experiences. At present the students have at their command a variety of encyclopedias, books of reference, religion, science literature, history, and juvenile interest, a great number of which have been contributed during the past year by kind benefactors who wish to encourage the habit of good reading. We greatfully [sic] appreciate every donation to our shelves, but we make special note of the gift of One Thousand Dollar Fund presented to the Catholic High Library by the beloved Rector of the Cathedral parish, Rev. Morgan Sheedy, LL.D., on the occasion of his Golden Jubilee in the Priesthood. A testimonial indeed is this gift of the rarely intellectual type of character possessed by the kind donor. - GEORGE J. McMULLEN. [66] NOON-DAY GLORY THE blue-hued mountains which seem to beckon from afar, were bathed in golden radiance. My sould [sic] wandered in glorious freedom to their heights and gazed upon the surrounding beauty. A clear, blue sky with flecks of white clouds floating tranquilly was overhead. Sol, in all his splendor, sent brilliant rays to Earth. The mountains were green with verdure, and some fancy led me to think of my favorite nook, a small, beautiful spot beside a rippling stream. Bushes and shrubs encircled it, while the stately trees formed with their branches a shelter for my bower. The sunshine filtered through and lighted it while in the velvety moss and entwining vines wild-flowers of delicate hue and daintiness peeped. Soft as the sighing of the wild amid the leaves in summertime came a voice from the woodland. There a fairy queen stood and before her a fairy menial. "Forgive me," I thought, "for eavesdropping, but you are so lovely you stifle the voice of my concience [sic]." "My queen," the menial said in loving accents, "you know that the students of the Catholic High will be graduated in June. Let me be the bearer of your gifts to them." "Nay, dear elf, I give no gifts to those boys and girls." "Oh, gracious queen, say not so! Why, Marion, Anna, Collette, Helen, Regina - all are most worthy of thy bounty." "Dear elf, those girls have gifts from God more priceless than any that I might bestow upon them. Marion has a sweet voice to cheer others, Anna has a marked degree of intelligence, Collette's Irish wit will always be her envied possession, Helen's unassuming modesty will win her praise, while Regina is a true queen. You reproach me but I am not unmindful of your charges." "Oh, queen, truly those girls are talented. But what of Bernardine, Cleo, Frances and the others?" "Bernardine, dear solicitous one, has her humor to take into the world with her, Cleo has her musical talent, and Frances her delightful little laugh. But were these girls without personal characteristics that endear them to all, they have their faith, their staunch and true belief in God's benevolence. That alone will sustain them in the `trials and tribulations' of this life." As she uttered the words, "this life", her voice seemed to grow shrill, shriller, until it deafened the distinctness of her speech. Hark! It became as a whistle, and away fled my airy visions of noon-day glory and fairy beings while I realized that the English period had ended and I had dreamed my time away. My prayers were broken with the reflection of how true the fairy of my imagination had pictured my classmates. - MARGARET P. FORSYTHE. [67] A YOUNG GIRL'S CONFIDANTE IT HAS only been two years since the canonization of the Little Flower yet devotion to her is world-wide. From the countless numbers of miracles performed through her intercession we know that she has kept her promise * * * * that of spending her heaven in doing good upon earth. It is evident also that God is willing to grant her humble petitions. During her life St. Theresa placed in God her earnest confidence and gave Him the tender love that little children show their parents. She made these words of Our Lord "Unless ye become as little children ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven" the foundation of her spiritual life. She would have us trust and confide in Him too, for one of her favorite sayings was, "What offends Jesus, what wounds Him to the Heart is lack of confidence". The perfect love the Little Flower had for Our Lord was one of her most pleasing virtues. And she looked upon this devotion as a means of repaying the Divine Master for His great sacrifice. In her we also find a model of simplicity. Even as a child the admiration of her beauty had no effect upon her disposition. Despite all the worldly gifts with which God had endowed her she chose the life of a Carmelite Nun, thus giving everything to God. St. Teresa neglected no opportunity to humiliate herself. Like every other human being she had an innate desire for praise but by her constant humility she conquered it and became a meek servant of God. And since she possesses these virtues of simplicity, humility and love, so necessary for all young girls, in these days when there are so many temptations, should we not take her for our model? -ELEANOR R. CHASE. LIFE'S GUIDE We know not where our ships will land, On crag or harbor fair; Our ships of fate are sailing on, Their end-that is our care. The sea of life, now smooth, now rough, Our fortunes ebb and flow But to arrive at port, we must Resist full many a foe. We'll trust to God in dangers deep, For Pilot such as He Will guide us safely to the end To Port Eternity. - GUSTAV BURKHART. [68] UPS AND DOWNS OF SCHOOL LIFE GRADUATION - the punctuation mark that concludes twelve long years of school life! And who is the modern graduate who will refuse to say that school life now-a-days with its daily round of drills compares in rigidity of discipline with the military life? Successes and failures, praises and reproaches follow regularly in the daily schedule of classes and tasks. Morning after morning the student's first "up" comes at the too early hour perhaps of seven forty-five. However, unless he be of the exceptionally "duteous" type, morning "reveille" has sounded before he arouses to a sense of the cost of tardiness. For first "mess" he would have an extraordinary relish but late compliance with calls denies him time to satisfy his rapacious hunger. A delayed departure from home and a tardy arrival at school three minutes after the "adjutant's roll call" brings a demerit. He suffers his first "down" when his fairy tale of poor car service or faulty alarm clock falls on deaf ears. But the penalty for such "first offenses" being cheerfully accepted, the day furnishes many opportunities to offset the first "down" by making repeated "ups" through lessons well-delivered and services thoughtfully executed. All seems to be promising fair, when, alas, a little merriment unwisely indulged in unexpectedly precipitates a "down" to the office and possibly an "out". The sentence generally imposed sends one to the "guardhouse" at three-thirty for an indefinite time to grieve over the misfortunes of Aeneas, to inquire into the causes of the capers Hamlet cut, to fashion the tenses of a "modern" French verb, or to mourn over the trials and tribulations endured by the founders of the American government, when deep in his heart the mourner's present trail affords grief enough. A joyous "down" meets him when "recall" at twelve gives him an opportunity to lead his class down to partake of second "mess" where he really does honor to the service. The afternoon brings more "ups" and some more "downs". At the close of the day "taps" sound for the last "down". Tired eyes and lingering thoughts close in upon the day's deeds with the realization of how many "ups" are required to perfect one in the science and tactics of self-discipline and how many "downs" are required to make one rise above the "level" and "down" grade and aspire to the ideals of the good. In the light of "retiring" reflection one sees that "generous sorrow, while it sinks, exalts", for although the youth undergoes many harrowing contradictions he learns that these "ups" and "downs" are the mould that takes the weakness and sentimentality out of forming manhood and womanhood. -WILLIAM F. STEPHENS. [69] A REFLECTION A FEW years ago, having been enrolled among the members of the Catholic High School, we were welcomed for the first time by the teachers of our Alma Mater. We were then at the threshold of what we believe will prove to be the happiest years of our lives. What a strange sensation possessed each one of us on that memorable day, as we met many boys and girls, entirely unknown, and wondered who of all these would, in the end, become our chosen friends and companions! But, as time passed very quickly, we experienced no longer that feeling of loneliness, for we were acquiring fond friendships - friendships that shall ever remain implanted in our hearts. Having entered High School as mere children, we began to assimilate beautiful lessons of honesty, courage, truth, prosperity, happiness, service and leadership. Scarcely a year had passed until we had given up all childish fancies and had reached that glorious age of ideals and illusions known as the follies of youth. The four years sped rapidly - faster than we had time to realize our happiness and glorious opportunity - when we found ourselves ready for graduation. And what a recompense! A feeling both of pride and of sadness filled our hearts - pride, for the school was rewarding us for those many long hours of careful study; and sadness, for we were bidding adieu to those halls and spacious rooms in which we spent four of the best years of our lives. Having received the blessing of our principal and faculty, the congratulations and good wishes of our friends, and having bade a fond farewell to our classmates and our dear old Catholic High School, we begin another very important part of our life. Commencement - yes, truly, we are beginning that struggle of life, which for some may be sweet, for others, bitter, but usually, each one receives an equal share of both. But what lies before us? This is the question that puzzles most of us at present. The Commercial pupils have been preparing for a business life, which begins for them directly after they leave High School. Those of the classical course may have in mind some higher form of business activity, as the life of the lawyer, doctor, nurse, or the teacher. Whatever our work in the future may be, we hope to perform the duties associated with it to the best of our ability, and thus apply to our own particular state those lessons learned in High School. - CLEO M. BOGGS. [70] SYLVIA Sylvia! What refreshing thoughts that title brings! Long will the memory of "Sylvia" days linger with the graduates of '27, for which one of them could forget the pleasure experienced in connection with the play presented by the entire class at the Mishler Theatre on the afternoon and evening of May eleventh. The success of this, our Senior performance, will hardly be surpassed by the attainment of future classes. "Sylvia" is a pastoral comedy in two acts. The combination of exquisite musical numbers and a highly pleasing plot kept the large audience enjoyably entertained. The graceful tripping of the prettily clad flower girls, added much color to the setting and the sweet sounds of the orchestra accompaniment enlivened the hours. CAST Sir Bertram De Lacey, The Court Poet - William McAleer Prince Tobbytum, A Man of Consequence - Paul Walker William, An honest farmer - George McMullen Robin, A country lad - Edwin Hoofnagle Sylvia, Betrothed to De Lacey - Rose Marie Hoover Betty, Betrothed to William - Collette Leahey Arabella, A lady in waiting at Court - Margaret Forsythe Araminta, Her sister - Marguerite Gebhardt Polly - Anna Hauk Molly - Mary Long Dolly - Bernice Gill Jenny - Marion Doran Farmers' daughters. Friends of Betty Choruses: Farm Lads, Farmers' Daughters and Haymakers. - GEORGE J. McMULLEN. [71] [photo] [Cast of "Sylvia"] [72] "REVUE OF THE CLASSICS" THE AGE-OLD classics are still breathing their everlasting breath into our midst. We love those old masters of music, prose and poetry because the heroes and heroines they fashioned are prototypes of many persons who, in our own life and times, are near and dear to us. That those immortal writers by the force of magic revelation foresaw some of the happenings and personages of the class of '27 of Altoona Catholic High School, there cannot be the slightest doubt. The following is a survey of the most striking predictions about a few of the more notable members of our class that may be found in treasured lines and titles of literary fame. Behold - Rip Van Winkle, the first known "literary" victim of sleeping sickness is with us in exact duplicates. Joe Danahy and Terence Wharton are two lads who without a signal can hop off to dreamland and upon being called for recitation can formulate a tale just as weird as ever was any hashish-eater's dream. And certainly Glodsmith [sic] could read as far into the future as our day when he coined the term "Sweet Auburn." Charley McAleer, we must presume, was his inspiration, for to be polite we will call his hair "auburn." Now who does not recall the most charming of the Mother Goose tales, "The Queen of Hearts"? We have that "Lilly" Queen right here in our midst today in the person of Helen Ryan - "pretty, petite and daintily clad." Since her entrance into the class of '27, many of its "steady-going" young men are inclined to think that it was on account of Helen that the Lilly riot occurred. The age of Thackeray, too, is still with us. His "Vanity Fair" was reproduced in our school room recently with startling suddenness. Helen Hollenshead appeared one day dolled in "Becky Sharp's" ear rings. And she still insists that they enhance a young girl's charms! 0! How foolishly our fair maids hanker after the vanities of time! Louisa Alcott when writing "Little Women" must have foreseen, as some of her characters, several of our gentle fair ones: e.g., Mary Long, Kathleen Washington, Bernardine Riley, Eleanor Chase and our own ladylike "little" Johnny Kilcoyne. Although our "little women" are not small with respect to brains or ability, nevertheless they could ride any place for half-fare if size and childlike appearance were the determinants of rates. A quotation from the great bard who gave Stratford-on-Avon literary prominence is pleasingly familiar - "Hark! Hark! The lark." It makes most folks think of things light and airy, the great open spaces, healthful breezes, daybreak, youth and the like, but to the Class of '27 it suggests just one picture, - George McMullen, tripping the light fantastic at our Senior socials. [73] Even the painters pictured us in prophecy. Gilder's "A Little Picture Painted Well" surely has for a subject nothing that surpasses "The Great Unwashed" division of our class, who, in a vain effort to increase their charms, don war paint as profusely as the red skinned forefathers of our nation, - that is, when out of school. And "Mary had a little lamb," indeed. We've actually seen it. This lamb, as you all know, was ever faithful to the practice of following his young mistress around. But I'll relate the part of the story that Mother Goose thoughtlessly omitted. That Mary is none other than Mary Long, while the lamb is our merchant of Seventh Street, Paul Walker - simple, isn't it? And here is another revelation! We have at last concluded that it was Eddie Doran's beautifully marcelled raven tresses, not a horse, that inspired the title for Anne Sewell's book, "Black Beauty," a story which is read by every child, including every member of Eddie's gang. Ah! That good old ship depicted by Wagner as "The Flying Dutchman" has a living simile in one of our most garrulous maidens, Bertha Geisler. She is one of our leading advocates of woman's suffrage - and preaches it. When her "Dutch" is aroused there is the most remarkable resemblance imaginable between her capers and the appearance of that good old schooner, descending on her prey with sails spread and colors flying. Moore's "My Earliest Love," of course, has found subjects of resemblance in every generation since it was written, and our class is an exception only in the singularity of the case. Anthony Berger had passed through three years of scholarly bliss and was always quite ready to point the finger of scorn at those unfortunates smitten by love's "unutterable tenderness." But this year that wily archer, Dan Cupid, at last found his mark. It was surely Anthony and one of our raven-haired "Little Women" who furnished the vision that created in the poet's mind so sublime a theme. Our excursion with the masters of old is ended. How it enhances the known merits of the class of '27 to behold them linked with the long-sung geniuses of the literary world. Gratefully acknowledging the thankful words I seem to hear from my classmates for the tribute I have endeavored to pay them, like every other actor on life's stage, "I will fold my tent like the Arabs and silently steal away." - WILLIAM J. McALEER. [74] "MODERN PAINTERS" PAINTING, in the artistic sense of the word, signifies the application of color to any surface for the purpose of causing beauty to be experienced through the emotions rather than through the sense of sight. A picture is really the representation of the beauty of a thing, which expresses the ideal of the painter so that it will live in the hearts of men. The great painter, therefore, is an intellectual master as well as a master of art. The art of painting is a primitive one for it has ever been the common purpose of artists to put on canvas facts, ideas and emotions. They have aimed to "fix the evanescent in imperishable lines and colors". And what masters of the art many have become! By a few deft strokes only, they knew how to mark the image and character of whatever object they attempted. And strange to note, a woman's countenance has so often been their inspiration in a work of greatness. Raphael, da Vinci, Murillo, Fra Angelicio [sic], all most notable artists, selected the Blessed Virgin as a subject for their masterpieces and invested them with that serene beauty which reflects her purity. Da Vinci's "Mona Lisa" with its baffling smile is as renowned and incites as much wonder and admiration today as it did over four centuries ago. Each country and each century has particularized the theme of its painting. But did any century ever produce so many aspirants to the power of wielding the artist's brush as our own? Did our famed geniuses of past ages dream that the subject of the theme they loved to put on canvas - Woman - would step down and, as rival, take unto herself command of the art of which she was formerly the glory? Our "modern painters" delight in the subjective scheme - making themselves the subject of their own art. They delight in a fantasy of vermillion, white, and black. They carmine the lips, rouge the cheeks, blacken the eyebrows and lashes and tint the tips of the ears until "Beneath her rouge a maid doth live Whom eye would scarcely recognize." Even the eye, "the true mirror of the human soul," that "little member that gives life to every other part," is drugged to give a false brilliance. The business of making the most of one's self by rouging, tastefully or otherwise, seems to be the aim. But our "modern painters" forget that the concern of the painter is to cause beauty to be experienced through the emotions. How sadly our "modern painters" fail! Vain is the beauty that tries to enhance itself by artificiality. Shades fade, even those of the greatest masters, and what is to be expected of the shades of our less artful painters? True beauty emanates from within, is reflected through the eyes, hovers about the lips, and discovers itself in the disposition. - MARGARET P. FORSYTHE. [75] ALMA MATER Sweet Alma Mater, live, live on, Our love for you goes deep For, Alma Mater, you are ours Whose hearts your memories keep. If such there be who love you not, Or they, careless, thy name forgot, High though they rise in this world's fame, No glory in themselves can claim, For all reflects thy fostering care, 0 Alma Mater, true and fair. Thy memory shall e'er be found And thy deserved praise resound From loyal hearts, where'er we be We offer thee our fealty. - MARGARET FORSYTHE. [76] "STEPPING TO THE MUSIC OF THE NATION" THIS LAND we live in, a nation not yet a century and a half old, holds the highest place in glory among the nations of the world. While yet in the very cradle of her infancy, through the distinctive and tireless mechanical experiments of such men as Morse, Whitney, Bell, and Fulton, she forged ahead of her sister nations and mother country in social, scientific, and industrial progress. Politically, she has reached this exalted position of might by the successful working out of the system of government planned for us by our first great statesmen. What soulful veneration is due these past masters of political ideas! How loyally we should defend their ideals, and how patriotically preserve their memories! Does not the progress made by these United States prove how necessary to the security of the government are strong and noble leaders? Should it not encourage us to prepare for a worthy citizenship? Liberty and Union were the two basic principles of the government the Fathers of our Republic framed for a people who were themselves to be the benefactors and the beneficiaries. But to enable such a system to produce hoped-for results, these great minds assumed a good loyal citizenship to be necessary, a people willing to be patriotic. They established a popular system of government, knowing full well that "a country can be no stronger than its citizenship, no safer than the quality its citizenship affords." To preserve our country a strong and safe republic, we must have a vigilant citizenry. In our land, "flowing with milk and honey," we have homeseekers from every nation - yes, "America has the blood of nations in her veins and he who strikes her strikes the world." Our immigrants seeking naturalization must be informed not only of the privileges but also of the obligations incurred by the oath of allegiance to their adopted country. And in order that the vigor of our nation may not degenerate, we, the youth of the country, must learn our obligations. We can help our government in just so far as we are intelligent citizens, because the kind of laws we shall have depends upon the lawmakers we shall choose. Citizenship in our country means, therefore, service returned for a service rendered. To deserve the protection our government assures us, we must exercise certain duties in return. Obedience to law, respect for the officials who make them, duties bearing upon support of the government by taxation, honesty in compliance with the requirements of the voting privilege and other patriotic duties, are all vitally necessary qualities of a good American citizen. We who shall soon have attained the age enabling us to use the rights of American citizens, and who have had the advantage here in our Catholic High school of a civic training vitalized by religious instruction, should resolve to be hero-worshippers, enthusiastic supporters of the fruits of the vigorous leadership of those revered political masters who initiated the achievement of a government of, by, and for our people. Then shall we be "keeping step to the music of the Nation." - LEO E. SCHREIBER. [77] MOTHER'S PICTURE Of all the most beautiful pictures My mem'ry loves best to recall, Is one of my own loved mother, Most cherished and dearest of all. It speaketh a loving message, Words tender and meant for me. Kind eyes beneath dark brows pleading That a dutiful child I might be. Her sweet lips whisper, "Be patient, Conquer self and fight the good fight; Lift the cross weighing down on the aged; Guide the young from wrong to right." Those fond eyes bid me look upward, The rough ways of earth trample down, To trust in the Lord's fair promise, The strong only shall win the crown. None then of all the loved pictures My memory loves best to recall, Can teach so inspiring a lesson As mother's, most cherished of all. - MARIAN DORAN. BE EQUAL TO YOUR TRUST In all thy goings in and out, In all things good and just, Be faithful to the part you play; Be equal to your trust. Sincere in all thy dealings be; Remember this, thou must In all thy actions with mankind Be equal to your trust. Fruitful in all thy words be thou, Observing what thou dost; Be true to all your promises, Be equal to your trust. Be honest in each work you do, Nothing do thou unjust; To thee alike, be friend or foe, Be equal to your trust. Lay up not treasures that can be Consumed by moth or rust; Work for the things that count in life, Be equal to your trust. - CLEO M. BOGGS. [78] BE EQUAL TO YOUR TRUST OUR immortal American sage, Noah Webster, in his "Dictionary of English Language," defines in his own clear and terse way the meaning of trust: "Trust - confidence: a reliance or resting of the mind on the integrity, veracity, justice, friendship, or other sound principle of another person. Something committed to a person's care for use or management, and for which an account must be rendered." We have chosen "Be Equal to Your Trust" as our class motto because its sublimity of thought appeals to us, and on account of the stimulating influence it creates in us for love of work and loyalty to that work, which is often the only panacea for all human sorrows. We have but to look at an innocent child to learn the greatest lesson in Divine trust. Watch its sincere, childish mind unfolding in ardent confidence to the Wisdom of the world. A loving and true mother will tell you of her sacred trust - how she feels and senses that sublime charge from the very moment the new-born infant is placed in her arms. How it seems to question with infinite wonder, "Can I trust you?" We are taught in our school years the meaning of Trust. Our teachers inspire us with confidence. They instruct us to be trustworthy and to possess the qualities of reliance and justice. The students look upon their teachers as trusting friends and soon learn to vindicate the confidence placed in them. And all through life this lesson of faith and confidence is carried out. The employer trusts his workmen, the buyer his merchant, the investor his banker, and so on in all phases of life. Arid if we fail in ever so little - like the pebble cast into the stream - the results may be far-reaching. To a large extent, one's calling in life is hereditary, though to a much less degree in this country than on the other side of the Atlantic. It is true that the farmer and his wife, likewise parents in other walks of life, expect one or two, if not all their sons and daughters, to follow in their footsteps - many times into distasteful callings or into those places for which nature never intended them. However, if we are so unfortunate that we are prevented from entering the calling or trust most attractive to us, and are restricted to unfavorable surroundings, we feel that recollection of our "class motto" will enable us to do our utmost wherever destiny may direct our charge. For, after all, the occupation for which we have neither taste nor talent may prove the stepping-stone to something better, and by being equal to our trust we may develop the work into unsuspected possibilities. "To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as does the night the day, thou canst not then be false to anyone." - FRANCES C. SULLIVAN. [79] OUR CLOTHING AND DAME FASHION SPRING, like a rosebud unfolding its petals to the call of the sun's rays, opens its doors to the Spring styles. Style-shows displaying the latest styles attract the attention of men as well as women everywhere. But have we ever stopped to ponder awhile on this now full blossomed flower, Dame Fashion, in the stage of a bud? That is why I am going to tell the following story: We see utilized the fur, the hide, and the feathers of birds and of animals; the fiber of plants; the delicate thread in the cocoon of the silkworm; all these man, in his God-given ingenuity, used in order to protect himself from the elements of Nature. In his original intention, man regarded clothing as a means of protection against his natural enemies. Later his intention broadened and a style or form of dress began to evolve. He began to consider dress as a personal adornment rather than a necessity. Those men who lived in early times fashioned their clothing in the form of a tunic over which was worn an outer garment called a toga. This form of dress seems to have been universally adopted by the Hebrews, Greeks and Romans. The dress of the women of these nations was far more elaborate. The Hebrew lady wore a skirt-like dress with broad, flashy straps bejewelled with pearls and colored stones, and covered her hair with a fashionably curled wig. In the Roman matron's dress the skirt-effect predominated with an added panel-effect reaching from neck to heel. The entire gown was elaborately embroidered and bejewelled, and she also adorned her hair with jewels, aigrettes, and flowers. The Grecian woman was more simply attired. Her dress was a beautiful flowing gown made of some exquisite cloth which draped her slender figure, while she adorned her hair with narrow bands of the same material. These fashions later gave way to a more general costume based on the skirt and worn by both men and women. War in which cavalry played an important part made it necessary to adopt a new form of dress, and the skirt of the rider was split from the waist to the hem in front and back, thus dividing it into two separate parts. This mode was soon adopted by all men. During the Renaissance men of fashion wore doublet and hose - the hose reaching from waist to toe. A short, wide waist-coat with long, wide sleeves and scalloped edges completed this costume. Women of this period wore a wide clinging dress with long, wide sleeves, and scalloped edges. The queens of this period wore a stiffly starched collar reaching from shoulder to ear. A little later men adopted knee breeches and coat that reached to the knees. This coat they gave the name of overcoat. A powdered wig, three cornered hat, silk stockings, and half-boots completed this costume. Women's dress also underwent a radical change. The fashionable lady wore a short hoop-skirt with an over-garment puffed at the waist, on the sides; and at the back; she also powdered her hair. [80] About twenty years after this the skirt took the form of a very full hoop-skirt, flat in front and back, padded at the hips and richly embroidered. Her hair was arranged in a high powdered coiffure adorned with pearls, flowers and feathers. Toward the close of the eighteenth century men took up a simpler mode of dress. They discarded the powdered wig for their own hair and wore trousers reaching from waist to ankle. A linen shirt and a short coat introduced at this time has, with slight modifications, come down to our present day. Women's fashion, however, has seen many changes. From the short hoop-skirt of the early eighteenth century she turned, at the close of the century, to a very long dress with a tight waist - the sleeves either tight or balloon-effect. The neck of the dress was very high and usually very stiff; the shoes were high; and the stockings cotton. The hair was long and done up in a beautiful coiffure. The only adornment on the head was a small bonnet. In the twentieth century fashions have changed every year. There have been very few additions to woman's dress. Most of the changes have been "subtractions," until today we have a style or a fashion which has reached a lamentable stage. The modern dress can boast of no waistline; the long, tight, or full sleeve of the past has degenerated into a very short one, or none at all; the high neck, to a very low one; high shoes, to low; cotton stockings, to chiffon; the long hair, to the "bob", giving to woman an air of frivolity rather than that of dignity, which mankind has always looked for in her. If man's original intention was to protect himself against his natural enemies, why are our women of today exposing themselves to these very enemies and to their spiritual enemies as well? Why do women of today yield to more than decency allows? The answer is not difficult to find. They are eager and ready to sacrifice health and modesty for human praise and attraction. AND THEY GET IT. How can this great evil, which is working both physical and spiritual ruin, be righted? Only by the REAL adoption of the principles expressed in the life of a Jewish maiden of long ago, whose dress was simple and modest and as such could not but be beautiful. This principle has always been advocated by Christ's representatives on earth, for the words spoken by St. Peter to the primitive Church were intended for the instruction of all ages: "When adorning let it not be the outward plaiting of the hair or the wearing of gold or the putting on of apparel: But the hidden man of the heart in the incorruptibility of a meek and quiet spirit which is rich in the sight of God." Now, we, the students of the Catholic High School have had this principle instilled into us since our entrance. Therefore, let us crown this passing-out of its sacred portals and make it memorable by pledging, "with the assistance of God's grace, to make a practical application in [81] our lives of the strictest modesty of dress, hereby acquiring a true Catholic character, maintaining a spotless purity ourselves, and aiding others, despite the temptations and allurements of pleasure around us. "We implore our Mother Mary to obtain for us from the Sacred Heart, grace and strength to be faithful to this promise." - AGNES MIGNOGNA. BE CHEERFUL CHEERFULNESS implies a bright and sunny disposition which shows itself in the face, the voice, and the actions. It is directly Q opposed to gloominess and conditions of low spirits. Each one has his own trouble and sorrow for it is impossible to be happy all the time. Grief always mingles with joy and one should make the best of his destiny for: "The path of sorrow and that path alone, Leads to the land where sorrow is unknown." Some people give the impression that they are not capable of being pleasant. This is a tragedy for them but more so for those with whom they associate. To be affected by melancholia, blues, or by any other depression of spirits, is suggestive of a lonely wanderer roaming in Egypt. The world needs smiling, pleasant-looking people, not gloomy, low-spirited creatures. "For the sad old earth must borrow its mirth, ` But has trouble enough of its own." The failing most common among us is that we are not cheerful or pleasant enough. What a happy life one would find if all were gay, cheerful, and pleasant! Each individual should make up his mind to look cheerful and happy, for it is to be remembered that "There's a silver lining Through the dark clouds shining." And some day everything will turn out well. "Thank Heaven for what it has bestowed; Cease, cease this useless pining! And take the independent road, Where light is always shining." - BERNARDINE G. RILEY. [82] MY OUTLOOK UPON LIFE LIFE is not "a waste of wearisome hours," it is not "a valley of tears." "The years are flowers," says the poet, "and bloom within Eternity's wide garden." I look upon life as a gift that puts me in possession of the means whereby I can hereafter enjoy the "bloom" of these years, if my living of them corresponds to my calling. The world is full of people who do not realize that they are here for a definite purpose. They hold the pagan idea, "You live only once." Such a purposeless outlook on life always brings discontent, because the only promise life has for them is pleasure, and when pleasures disappoint, "Life becomes a wearisome waste of hours." 'Tis such natures we hear complain that the world is full of evil, and so it is from their viewpoint, for, like the foam on the surface of water, the bubbles will burst - "Too light winning," as Shakespeare says, "makes the prize light." That we were made to be happy is proved even by our physical nature, for there is more laughing than weeping in the world. Numberless are the pleasures that we enjoy from our feelings - enjoyments afforded by nature, those that come from the pleasures of friendship, from study, and from the duties that occupy our time. But man's noblest pleasures are usually enjoyed unknown to others. The public cannot perceive the personal pleasure that springs from goodness of heart, from the spiritual reflections in which man often indulges. No, this life is not found a wearisome place by everyone, because, "whether it be good or bad, depends on how we take it." Man's chief need is to know how to live, how to put purpose into his existence, and that, on the whole, is what education means - the acquiring of a viewpoint, and instruction in the ability to live up to that viewpoint. The Catholic School, with its organized system of religious instruction, fits its pupil to live happy, purposeful years. It starts him down the road of life equipped with a true outlook, with the knowledge of the faith necessary to keep that vision clear, with strength to surmount the struggles of the way, and incentive to persevere until he be admitted into Eternity's fair garden, there to gather the "bloom" of his earthly years. - GUSTAV H. BURKHART. [83] [photo] THE FRESHMAN CLASS [84] A LESSON ON SOUND IT WAS night and very dark. A drizzling rain and a heavy murkiness hung about the old house. Inside, amid the heavy draperies and richly carved furniture, there was no one stirring. In his chair, a young man, a youth of intellectual mein but of self-indulgent, over-privileged and purposeless pose, sat and idly toyed with the powerful radio in the massive console before him. Soon his mind became wearied by the jazzy music, by the boring gaiety and by the nauseating nonsense that came to him over the air. He reclined leisurely in his comfortable chair while his eyes, with a pensive stare, rested on the tall, old clock in the corner that crooned away its never-varied song. This treasured antique, with its pale face and artistically-formed black Arabic numerals, seemed to hold entranced the lone occupant of the room. The radio concert fell on inattentive ears. As the peals of the dying storm outside slowly faded away, he still gazed intently at the open face of the timepiece as if held enthralled by some mysterious power. Louder in the stillness that followed seemed to grow the steady beat, always intercepting the same measure of time, but never disturbing the line of thought that held in its spell the musing listener. Yes - tick, tock, tick, tock, tick - its heavy beat changes not whether it announces hopeful morning or foreboding night; its restless, steady note spells success in the very same pitch as it pronounces defeat. Strangely enough, we fear the crash of thunder and the roar of the storm, but aweing [sic] as is the tremendous volume of both, why do we not realize that the incessant tick, tock of the clock makes just as certain a pronouncement affecting our lives? No other sound awakens in us such "sweetly solemn thoughts." What simple rhythm! Yet on the stride of that self-same tick, empires have been destroyed, kings have been dethroned, and entire armies routed. To the speed of the clock's tick, tock, a Martin Luther sowed the seeds of a destructive heresy and reaped the reward of relentless remorse; a Henry VIII, to satisfy the demands of a debased ambition, fell from the grace that long made him the "Defender of the Faith," and caused the political, religious and social disruption of a progressive nation; a Napoleon, defeated in his hopes for world emperorship, spun out a long, lonely existence gazing upon the watery boundaries that hemmed in his exile home. Mysterious sound art thou - not gay, not dolorous - grave echo of a far off somewhere! Joy bells ring in the New Year; grief-laden strains toll the passing of "some village Hampden". But not even the sound of the bell has the force of the awe-instilling tick, tock, tick, tock of the common timepiece. Its sound is suited to every type of change in spirit. Indeed, the same strangely sonorous tick, tock, tick steadily spells the certain advance of time for all. Its never-failing beat parallels with the human life-giving heart beat; a worthy or an unworthy life record it may tell of us. [85] Crash! The thunder rumbled in ever-increasing volume to start the storm anew. The figure in the chair stirred, roused himself from his deep reverie, stood erect, and still glancing at the face of the clock, exclaimed: "Each of these simple strokes is writing a chronicle of my life, and one of these self-same tick-tocks shall signal the last moment of the time allotted me for `going about doing good'. This night I resolve to prepare for a purposeful career, a life of service to God and man." -LEE S. HOOFNAGLE. A GREAT CONTEMPORARY MAN'S MISSION in this life is to work and to achieve. Of the three proverbial ways by which he may attain to greatness, the one that is lauded as greatest is the attainment of some tremendous achievement that promotes the progress of humanity. A little more than a quarter of a century ago, a young Italian strained his powers to make a dream materialize. Contrary to Kipling's counsel, he made "a dream his master". For was it not a dream he was indulging when he argued that through thousands of miles of space one man could send a message to be heard by another? Surely only a dreamer could convert such a probability into a possibility! Yet, today, that man, Guglielmo Marconi, is living to enjoy the reality - we see the practical usages of his wonderful discovery. And the future may give us more marvelous uses to visualize. Marconi believes there will yet be transmission of power by his invention and even the perfection of television by radio. Is he still dreaming? Has he aroused from one state of slumber only to fall off into another? When we consider the marvelous potentialities of ether, Marconi's conjecture seems not impossible even though it does stagger the imagination. Marconi's vision pictures for us a wireless-controlled world. In years to come the ungainly chimneys of great industrial centers will have disappeared; the flame that cheers and warms, that gave origin to the "hearthstone" sentiment of the poets, may be supplied or replaced by wireless. Other fuels may still be of trivial use, but vehicles and most machinery will draw their energy from the ether. Cleanliness and compactness will be two improvements to be hoped for in the prospective wireless age. Picture our descendants sightseeing in the museums of that day and observing in amazement such relics of the past as telephone poles, gas fixtures, gas tanks and filling stations. We know, `tis true, that "times change and we change with them," but such prospects of scientific change "doth tease us out of thought as doth Eternity." Only a Marconi is able to visualize them. - LEE S. HOOFNAGLE. [86] MASTER OR SLAVE? I LIVE in subjection to the will of a master - I am a slave. With the realization of this fact, a feeling of "littleness" comes over me. I am subject to my master's will and domination. He has weakened my power of self-command. For so many of my acts, I am responsible to him. Even my intellect is no longer "sui juris" - it has no rights; "it does not possess itself." I am bound as a slave. Slavery is an institution that nearly every nation at some time or other has tolerated, causing evil and unhappiness, even though the nation itself sometimes progressed. It is of ancient origin, having begun perhaps in the pastoral age, when captives were sold or made tend the flocks. Next, as in Greece, slaves were given domestic tasks. Soon, however, they came to be used in the wars and just as warfare tended to promote world progress by fostering the spirit of competition for superiority, so did it quicken in the slave the spirit of freedom. Slavery was the bone and sinew of Rome's existence. There especially it was used to advantage in conquest. Her slaves made Rome a world empire, because the Romans in their lust for world power pressed the slaves into constant service. But the Teutonic invaders brought Rome's spirit of conquest to an end. Gradually slavery in Western Europe became modified until it was only serfdom, and with feudal decline the peasant came into possession of personal liberty. By such a gradual process, every form of servitude disappeared from Western Europe, only to be passed on to the then rising America, where it took a strong hold. Here, as in Europe, it retarded social development and prevented political achievement. After having created great internal disorder and having brought the Union to the point of disruption, it was finally abolished by executive proclamation. Personal liberty was thereby added to our civil and religious privileges. But the Emancipation Proclamation did not free us spiritually. We are still in servitude. We are modern slaves. Our masters are "habits," and they dominate over our will as they please. The reason for this servitude is that human passions, like human kings, wish to have their own way, and persist in subjecting us to their will. Such persistency results in the formation of habits. Fortunate are those who have good masters - the persistency of whose actions has resulted in the formation of good habits; unfortunate are others who are dominated over by the evil influence of ignoble habits. Since this modern slavery is a personal matter and can be abolished only by individual warfare, we should heed the "Builder's Lesson:" "As you did a habit make, So shall you a habit break; As you gathered, you must lose, As you yielded, now refuse. - EDWARD W. DORAN. [87] PASSING THE TORCH AS ALUMNI THE PRESENT is an age of get together affairs, an age in which all types of organizations seem bent upon encouraging the united action of their members through social intercourse. This is one matter then in regard to which graduates of the Altoona Catholic High school can advisedly follow the spirit of the time - they should use their best efforts to put the Alumni association abreast of the many organizations of its type. The pioneering stage of our school's life was in the capable hands of the Class of '26. Did not we, the members of Catholic High's second class, envy them when on the morning of June 9, after the graduation Mass at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament and their breakfast in the school cafeteria, they united, and, under the direction of our Principal and the members of the faculty, formed the Alumni association? Trailing close upon their glory, however, our turn, too, has come and now the Class of '27 awaits the honor of being the first class to be admitted by the pioneers. May each succeeding year bring a large increase of loyal members into the Association - pupils filled with love for our Alma Mater and with the determination to pass on the torch she has put into our hands - the light of Catholic education - through loyalty to her from whom we have received it. The Alumni of any educational institution has a great part to perform in the work of making the history of that institution. Not only does the material aid that it is customary for such an organization to contribute, help to sustain the life of the school, but the "auld acquaintance" revivals, the return visits of those who have gone out into the world, give influence and prestige to the school. The proof of this fact we ourselves have witnessed in the expressions of loyal appreciation of the "good old Catholic High days" from so many members of the first class. We earnestly hope that the Alumni will ever be a support and source of pride to Catholic High; and be it resolved by the Class of '27 that not a few, but all, will unite with the Class of '26 and put forth vigorous efforts to build up a staunch and true Alumni Association. Then, as the years pass into history, as class is added to class, what a proud boast it will be ours to make, that we have lived, not for ourselves alone, but that we have done a noble, active work by encouraging the betterment of Catholic educational facilities and by keeping bright the glowing torch that Catholic High placed in our hands, so that we may cause others "To see the lights of Eden gleam And not believe it all a dream." - CHARLES A. McALEER. A creditable number of Catholic High's first class have taken up the pursuit of higher education. From the boys' group alone exactly half are enrolled in various colleges. While the percentage of girls who are preparing for professional careers is not as high, nevertheless it is exceptionally good. At present the following alumni are registered in the following institutions: [88] At Saint Francis College, Loretta, Pa.: Joseph Berger, John O'Leary, Raymond Cupples, Charles Rodgers, Edward McConnell, Joseph Ronan. At Villanova College, Villanova, Pa.: James Kilcoyne, Ralph Mannion, Francis Stevens, George Tomlinson. At Mount Saint Mary's, Emmittsburg, Md.: Robert Ansman, Eugene Bradley. At Notre Dame University, Notre Dame, Indiana: William Clear, John Hoffman. At Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pa. (Night Course) James Dillon. At Carnegie School of Technology, Pittsburgh, Pa. (Night Course): Marcellus Kirsch. The following students have registered at Carnegie but are devoting this year to securing preparatory experience in local drugstores requisite for course in Pharmacy to be begun next September: John Corless, Eugene Ronan, Edward Unverdorben. At Seton Hill College, Greensburg, Pa.: Annina Fultz, Dorothy Glenn, Mary Grace Kirsch. At Misericordia College, Dallas, Pa.: Kathryn Schmidhamer. At Indiana State Normal: Mary Catherine O'Toole. At Lock Haven State Normal: Mary McMullen. At Mercy Hospital Training School for Nurses, Pittsburgh: Mary Adams, Grace Cowan. And two members of the class of '26 have answered the call of the Master to labor in His vineyard: Dorothy Lyman has become a member of the Order of Charity at Greensburg, Pa., and Elizabeth Moore is now a Sister of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Scranton, Pa. Is this not a remarkable record for the first class of any High School? Many of the remaining members are engaged at trades, or are working their way upward in business positions. May the record of the class of '27 be equally creditable. -WILLIAM J. McALEER. [89] [drawing] [90] ATHLETICS OUR predecessors in the field of athletic endeavor, the class of '26, when, last June, they passed on their titles and honors in sportdom, left us a legacy of good wishes that we, thanks to the initiative with which they as pioneers dowered us, have been able to make materialize. "Each year a better year," was their departing wish. Yes, we have successfully builded [sic] upon their deeds and records, for their shoes, athletically speaking, have been well filled by their successors. 1926-27 has, on the whole, been Purple and Gold's most successful year in sports. The courage and stick-to-itiveness of the teams that pioneered our school's athletic activities have begun to produce results. Our teams are steadily whittling their mark upward in the win columns and surely gaining the respect of opponents. Our records, to be sure, do not chronicle many brilliant gains, but neither do they show any humiliating defeats, notwithstanding the fact that the schedules arranged this year were the hardest so far attempted. FOOTBALL The 1926-27 football record reveals a none too consoling tally when considered from the viewpoint of wins, but then figures in sports do not tell all of a tale. Our final standing was three wins, two ties and five games lost, while we scored 131 points against our opponents' 152. The team was under the competent direction of Coaches "Boots" Semanske and Dr. Shope. A disheartening outlook was theirs when candidates were called last September. Seven of the places formerly held by last year's regulars were vacant. However, before playing time began, the coaches had moulded together a likely-looking group of grid performers. The season was ushered in the last Saturday in September, when the Yellowjackets took the field against the Alumni. The old stars put up a good fight, but were forced to take the short end of a 13-0 score. We scored in the first and third periods and kicked one extra point. In the next game the Purple and Gold overwhelmed Petersburg High by an avalanche of touchdowns. The slaughter ended at 65-0. The entire squad saw service against the visitors, and each combination contributed to the scoring. Our backfield men skirted the ends and tore through the opposing line at will, while our line kept the opposing "backs" well in check. The following Saturday found Williamsburg High the attraction. The final whistle left the score deadlocked at 0-0 after the teams had battled fiercely on a field so covered with mud that the ball-toters were severely handicapped. The Yellowjackets came within striking distance of the goal several times, but were checked each time by the bracing of the invader's defense. The next week the Purple and Gold warriors were stacked up against Bellefonte in our first away-from-home game. We took a 46-0 drubbing, but we fought valiantly against the Centre Countians, whose [91] undefeated record placed them with the foremost grid machines in this section. We put up a much better fight than the score indicates. Bellefonte's attack was stopped in numerous instances; we also gained considerable ground, though not being able to score. On the next Saturday the Purple and Gold eleven entertained Spangler High. This game was played on a slippery, muddy field, but that did not slacken the determination of the Yellowjackets to win. Our vigorous offensive tactics netted us three touchdowns, while alertness on the defense kept the visitors from crossing the goal line. In the first half, two touchdowns and an extra point were run up, while another touchdown and extra point were tallied in the second half. The final score of 20-0 added one more marker to the win column. Two of our contests were lost by a one-point margin, both games resulting in a 7-6 score. Failure to kick the extra point after a touchdown proved our undoing. In the Osceola game, the first of these two, the Yellowjackets made fourteen first downs to Osceola's three, clearly outplaying the visitors. Several costly fumbles on our part gave the Osceola clan their touchdown. In the second game, Lilly High handed us the setback, authough [sic] in this game, too, we outplayed our opponents, scoring 12 first downs to their 5. Forward passes were used to advantage in this game. Each team scored its lone touchdown by the aerial route. A comparison of the yardage gained in both encounters showed the superiority of the Purple and Gold gridders; but nevertheless the "breaks" worked against us. The representatives of Bedford High handed out to us one more loss. This trouncing came to the tune of 41-15. While humbled, we were by no means disgraced; scoring fifteen points against this club was quite an accomplishment, considering the fact that they were scored on by but one other team. The first half ended 15-9 in favor of the visitors, with the Yellowjackets providing plenty of opposition. Bedford, during the next half, presented a strong varied attack, which gave them a series of touchdowns, while we crossed the goal line but once. On the last Saturday before Thanksgiving we invaded the lair of our arch-rival, Johnstown Catholic High. Defeats have always been bitter to us, but doubly so at the hands of "the Johnnies." Our loss by 45-0 was as bitter as it was unexpected. The Flood City bunch started off with a bang from the opening kick-off, uncorking an aerial attack which we were unable to check. While we undoubtedly played below form, the rival crew proved very much our superiors on that day. A season of ups and downs was brought to a close Thanksgiving Day, when we traveled to DuBois. This skirmish was fought on a gridiron covered with mud and ice. The tussle ended in a 6-6 tie which both teams tried their utmost to break. For nine of the gridders this day also brought to an end their football career with Catholic High. But not yet was our candle burned out. Four city organizations each banqueted us as a compliment to the cause of sports. After, the close of the season we were the guests of the Knights of Columbus, Young [92] Men's Institute, Kiwanis and Lions' clubs. At the Kiwanis gathering we were entertained by an interesting talk on football by Bill Roper, Princeton's famous coach. The players, at each assembly, joined in the songs and yells of the respective clubs. With this feasting and with a feeling of deepest gratitude for the kind attention bestowed upon us, another chapter of athletic activity was concluded. The members of the football squad who received letters for their services are: Captain Irvin, Adams, Berger, Bradley, Bravin, Conlon, Fox, Hacala, Harlow, Hughes, Kuhn, McAleer, McNelis, Obermyer, 0'Donnell, Oswald, Rentz, Schmittle, Wharton and Manager Burkhart. BASKETBALL IMMEDIATELY after the close of the football season attention was turned to basketball, the sport in which Purple and Gold teams have been most successful. Catholic High, with a veteran combination, was represented by one of the best teams in the district and incidentally the best team that has thus far represented the school on the court. The Yellowjackets captured the St. Francis Tournament championship and along with it the championship of the Altoona and Erie dioceses. Playing through a schedule of 18 games, Catholic High won 14, a very enviable record. The Purple and Gold basketeers scored 594 points to opponents' 404 - averaging 33 points per game to 22 for opponents. The 4 losses suffered by the team were inflicted away from home; each of the teams that administered the defeats were beaten on our own floor. The Purple and Gold aggregation won every game played at home - quite a feat considering the calibre of the clubs met. The schedule for the 1926-27 season was a strong one, the hardest so far arranged. Most of the teams we played were leaders in their own territories. Much of the credit for the fine showing of course is due to Coach "Pete" Schlegel through whose efforts our teams have attained high rank. The cage season was opened before the Christmas holidays when the Yellowjackets journeyed to State College, losing 27-19, though playing a fine brand of basketball for an opening game. At home the season opened with the Purple and Gold dribblers swamping Spangler High 64-6, pouring baskets through the hoop from all angles. Juniata College Reserves were the next victims, losing 34-23 in a game marked by plenty of action and accurate shooting. We lost the second game of the season away from home to Saint Joseph's, Williamsport, 33-26, losing out the last few minutes of play. Saint Joseph's, Renovo, was dropped 45-21, being completely outplayed throughout the game. In this game the Yellowjackets worked with a machine-like precision with which the visitors were unable to cope. We obtained sweet revenge for our defeat at the hands of Williamsport. In their return game the Purple and Gold "hoopsters" flashed an attack which was entirely too speedy for the "up-staters." The game was ours, 49-24. Renovo evened up the series [93] [photo] [athletic team members] [94] and handed us our third defeat of the season, 32-19. The game was very close until the last quarter, when the home team caged a number of long shots that gave them the victory. In one of the best games of the season featured by close guarding and fine passing by both sides Pittsburg Tech was vanquished 20-15. Next came the first of the two-game series with Johnstown Catholic High, the season's most eagerly anticipated game. The Yellowjacket cagers emerged the winners, 29-25. Jumping into the lead in the first quarter, we were never headed. The following contest was played at St. Francis College, where their prep team was defeated 28-24 in a spirited contest. Next we took State College High into camp 20-15, atoning for the defeat at their hands in the season's first game. Alas! Johnstown turned the tables against us in the second contest, played on Johnstown's floor. We dropped this game 25-17, the opposing quintet making a winning spurt in the second half. This was our fourth and last defeat of the season. Penn State Lambda fraternity was the next to bow to us, being handed a 44-30 lacing at the hands of the Purple and Gold quintet. Field goals were rolled in at a rapid rate; accurate shooting was the special feature of this game. We trounced Saint Francis prep for the second time 46-19, outplaying them by a wide margin. Duquesne Prep, one of the best teams in the Pittsburgh district, was the next to be humbled by Yellowjacket cagers. This team was defeated 39-30 in a fast game. The last of March an invitation to compete in the first Saint Francis interscholastic tournament was extended and we entered Class A with three other teams. For our first game on March 26 we drew Clearfield Catholic High. This team was completely outclassed, the Yellowjackets winning 26-5. The score at the end of the first half was 11-0. Two field goals and a foul in the second half was the extent of Clearfield's scoring. In the finals on March 27 Catholic High was paired with Saint Joseph's, Renovo. This was the third meeting between the two teams, each securing a win earlier in the season. Catholic High won the championship of the tournament by downing Renovo in a fast and well played game. At the end of the first half we were leading 12-10; the last half closed at 29-19. A handsome silver basketball trophy was awarded the Catholic High team as a reward for winning the tournament. The Yellowjackets' most successful season closed with a win over the Alumni, 40-31. Prospects for another successful season next year seem unusually bright, as only one regular and but two of the entire squad will be lost to the team. The Catholic High Varsity included "Subby" Irwin, "Pete" Dawson and "Eddie" Roessler forwards, "Dream" Myers and "Terry" Wharton centers, Captain "Nick" Irvin, "Pete" Obermyer and "Drew" Bradley guards and "Bill" McAleer manager. The Catholic High Reserves concluded a very successful season, also, winning ten games and dropping but two. They played the leading junior teams of the city and entered the city junior tournament, at the close of the season. The Reserves advanced to semi-finals after eliminating two [95] good teams. In the semi-finals they lost by a few points to the winners of the tournament. On the Reserves squad were a number of fine players who in the future should bring additional laurels to Catholic High cage teams. TRACK Early in March, Coach Semanske issued a call for track candidates. Last year track made its initial appearance on the Catholic High sport calendar. While not establishing any new records or winning any big meets, nevertheless for a first year a good all-around track team had been developed. Coach Semanske was hard hit by the loss of a majority of last year's squad, including three relay men. However, before the opening of the track schedule three good men had been found to fill the gaps in the relay team which was rounded out by one veteran from last year. The Purple and Gold cinder artists entered the Penn relays at Philadelphia on April 30. They were placed at a decided disadvantage when they drew the ninth and last lane. The Purpel [sic] and Gold quartet running against nine crack eastern high schols [sic] finished third, winning a bronze medal for their efforts. The success of the relay team in its first appearance and the talent of the rest of the team all point to another good year for Catholic High. The team is entered in several big meets including Carnegie Tech, Lancaster and State College in which the Purple and Gold clad runners should give a good account of themselves. The Catholic High team which ran in the Penn Relays included Captain McAleer, Berger, McNelis and Rentz running in the order named. - TERENCE WHARTON. THE END How sad are we when we recall 'Tis now the month of June, For we must leave ne'er to return And farewells must say soon. Four years ago we loved to hear, "Vacation time draws nigh" Now, with but sad and cheerless look, We Seniors softly sigh. Our dear old happy days are gone, But shall not be forgot, For they shall hold in memory For e'er a cherished spot. The dark cold world now claims us all, Its troubles we must share; May we, all equal to our trust, Honor the name we bear. -REGINA MYERS. [96] OUR BASKETBALL TEAM Basketball at Catholic High Is best of all its sports A pennant w e do hope is nigh This year to Catholic ports. We've beaten Tech, we've walloped State, We've blackened Spangler's eye, But, greatest of our victories, Was won from Johnstown High. This latter is our ancient foe Where victory is our aim, And though to other teams we lose, We must win Johnstown's game. On February eighteenth, we Fulfilled our highest aim; Our Johnny' foe was beaten well We rose in Sportdom's fame. Although we've won important games, We've also lost a few, But in return games here, at home We beat those high schools too. Now we must sing the praises due To the players on our team, To "Nick" and "Ed" two "Petes" and "Sub," To "Wharton," "Drew" and "Dream." We'll always keep this team in mind, The best we've had in years The confidence that they display Now tends to crush our fears. And as a parting word, we wish That they, in all their strife, May reach, at last, the final goal That of Eternal Life. - GUSTAV H. BURKHART. [97] [photo] [98] Dear Readers: - You have not yet exhausted the interesting reading matter our Annual contains. On the pages which follow you will find the names or trade signs of a long list of good friends of Catholic High. These generous patrons of our advertising space represent reliable and progressive business and educational institutions that have faith in the slogan, "It pays to advertise." We trust they will not be disappointed in the confidence they have placed in The Purple and Gold as a medium to make their houses better known. May they be repaid abundantly for the support they have given us by liberal patronage from the readers of our 1927 Annual. Gratefully, WILLIAM J. McALEER, GEORGE McMULLEN, WILLIAM STEPHENS. Business Managers.