2 0 0 9 FA L L • W I N T E R
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“Hebron Academy is a small school that opened my child’s eyes to a much larger world.” www.hebronacademy.org
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Semester H E B R O N
www.hebronacademy.org
A C A D E M Y
Fall 2009 • Winter 2010
16 departments 2 20 32 25 44 The Academy
news, events, arts, athletics, and more
Alumni et Alumnae
notes, unions, new arrivals, obituaries
features The Bell ringing out for victory by David W. Stonebraker
Roadtrip! from Hebron to Hebron, via Hebron
Driving Miss Ruthie a Jewish spitfire from Maine ends up in Malaysia by Jennifer F. Adams
Hebroniana
when we were giants
The boys’ varsity soccer team prepares for practice on Allen Field. Photograph by Dennis Griggs, Tannery Hill Studios, Inc.
the academy Editor’s Note
The child is father of the man
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hat handsome young man at right is Richard “Dick” Bonser, president of the Class of 1939. This fall we inducted him into our Athletic Hall of Fame (see page 12). At lunch following the ceremony, archivist David Stonebraker and athletic director Leslie Guenther showed Dick a football commemorating the Exeter game, 71 years after he and his teammates played it (see page 44). It may be difficult to see in this photo, but there is determination in young Dick’s eyes—determination tempered by a sense of humor. The sight of the football prompted a stream of memories, some of which were not printable in this magazine! The boy Dick was is in the man today. In December, I had the pleasure of making anew the acquaintance of Ruth Scarpino ’04, known as “Miss Ruthie” to her students. I remember Ruth in her Hebron days, which were not long ago. She was a challenge for many of her teachers; not afraid to address perceived injustice and to stand up for what she felt was right. Placed as an English Teaching Assistant in a religiously-conservative part of Malaysia by the Fulbright Program, she was forced to hide part of her sense of self for safety’s sake. Frightened, she nonetheless persevered in her work, making a real difference in the lives of the students in her small village. Thinking of Dick and looking at Ruthie, I can only imagine where determination and a sense of humor will take her. I’d like to be around in 65 years to find out! Jennifer F. Adams, Editor jadams@hebronacademy.org
upcoming events
Find Hebron online Become a fan, friend or follower of Hebron Academy at your favorite social networking and entertainment sites. Facebook tinyurl.com/HebronFacebook LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/ groups?gid=1892134 Twitter twitter.com/HebronAcademy YouTube http://www.youtube.com/ hebronacademy1804 Semester magazine online issuu.com/Hebron_Academy
February 2010 12 Cohen Concert, 7:30 p.m. 26 A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, 7:30 p.m. 27 A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum , 7:30 p.m. April 2010 11 Hebron Day at the Portland Pirates hockey game, featuring the Hebeegeebees, 4:00 14 Hebron reception in New York City, hosted by Arlene and Mitchel A. Maidman ’82 17 Cohen Concert, 10:15 a.m. 30 Cum Laude Society induction
May 2010 1 Spring Family Day 2 Hebron Day at the Sea Dogs baseball game, featuring the Hebeegeebees, 12:00 p.m. 6 Hebron reception in Chicago, hosted by James B. Hill ’90 28 Baccalaureate 29 Commencement October 2010 8–9 Reunion & Homecoming TBA Reception at the Portland Country Club Reception in Boston
For more information, call or email Danielle Plante: 207-966-5266, dplante@hebronacademy.org
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on the cover The Class of 1984 in front of their senior class gift, made 25 years ago. Photo by Dennis Griggs, Tannery Hill Studios. The Semester is published twice each year by Hebron Academy, PO Box 309, Hebron ME 04238. 207-966-2100. Issue No. 204 mission The Semester magazine’s mission is to continue the Hebron family’s intellectual and emotional engagement with the Academy by conveying news, preserving the heritage and memories of the school and chronicling the accomplishments of its alumni, faculty and students. editor Jennifer F. Adams editorial assistance Hebron E. Adams Jeffrey C. Orwig David W. Stonebraker contributing writers Susan R. Geismar Leslie A. Guenther Christine Hemmings David Inglehart David W. Stonebraker production assistance Ellen L. Augusta ’75 Leslie A. Guenther Beverly J. Roy photography Jennifer F. Adams William B. Chase Dennis and Diana Griggs, Tannery Hill Studios, Inc. and friends
Hebron Academy reaffirms its long-standing policy of nondiscriminatory admission of students on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, ancestry, national origin, physical or mental disability, or sexual orientation. We do not discriminate in the administration of our educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs and athletic or other school-administered programs. Hebron Academy is an equal opportunity employer. © 2010 by Hebron Academy. www.hebronacademy.org
the academy From the Head of School
It’s not the bell, it’s the rope A
lthough Hebron has come a long way in recent years, we haven’t strayed far from what we were as a school in 1804, in terms of values and what’s truly important: the teaching of humanity and achievement for living a good life. This year was a crossroads year for independent schools and education everywhere. To face those challenges the Board and leadership at Hebron asked two fundamentally important questions: 1) What is the “upside of the downside:” How can Hebron gain an advantage in these challenging times? and 2) What are the absolute core values and programs that must be sustained and retained no matter what financial constraints may be necessary in the coming few years? The upside for Hebron is what you will see and feel on campus today: the largest boarding enrollment and the largest tuition paying census in many years—a position of strength: strength in our faculty, strength, talent, and diversity in our students, strength in our board, strength in finances, and strength in physical plant. That strength has taken investment—most significantly in
the extended financial aid necessary to achieve that healthy census and the investment in our remarkable faculty who return that investment by their dedication and hard work for our kids, just as they were doing in your day. Strategic new investments—in the athletic center, the Lepage Center for Arts in Sargent, and the additional student spaces in Sturtevant—are paying dividends in new opportunities for our students and faculty, in attracting prospective students and families, and in the satisfaction our students experience here and in their colleges and universities. But the true upside to those investments and the financial challenges they represent is in the answer to that second important question—the core values of your Hebron education. To get some guidance we asked the people who pay the bills—the parents of our current
students—what they felt were the most important reasons why they chose Hebron for their children. Their answers?: • The individual attention given to their children. • Quality of the faculty. • The academic program. • Education of the whole student. • College preparation and placement. • Family atmosphere. How do those qualities match with your views on the important core values of Hebron’s education for you? Current and graduating parents’ overall satisfaction in Hebron was exceedingly encouraging: 98% satisfied to extremely satisfied!
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hat’s today. But the challenge is tomorrow. For that I want to turn to the image of the Victory Bell. If you were here last May you would have seen the entire Class of 2009 ring the bell at the end of their graduation ceremony and their Hebron education. The other day I was on the hill when one of our soccer teams ran to the bell after defeating Proctor Academy in an exciting game. The team leaders waited until every teammate, even the one limping from an injury, got to the bell. Everyone put a hand on the rope with explicit instructions: “Everyone pull on three and then let go! Don’t hang on!” That’s what they did. Every hand pulled at once and when they let go the bell rocked back and forth and pealed across campus. At Hebron, it’s not the bell. It’s the rope. It’s not the ring. It’s the pull.
That’s what tomorrow is about, for our students and our school. It’s all hands on the rope! Sustaining Hebron’s rich heritage and uncompromising promise requires continuing new investments in Hebron’s extraordinary people, programs, and opportunities. By 2014 we envision a growing, yet still small school of no more than 300 students. The completion of classroom, studio and performance spaces in Lepage; new science lab spaces in Treat and expanded dining and student life spaces in Sturtevant will not only advance experiences in arts, music, mathematics and sciences, but will also advance the magnetism of Hebron for prospective students and talented faculty. While renovations and construction improve the appearance and curb appeal of a school, it is really the continual investment in the life of the school, in our Annual Fund and Hebron’s endowment that will enable Hebron to support our faculty professionally, allow bright, deserving students to attend, and enable us to continue to be good stewards to our campus environment and facilities. We need you all to pull the rope for Hebron. Support those students and their teachers; more than the campus and buildings, they are this school. They are your living memories and they last forever. John King Head of School
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 3
the academy Harvard recognizes Hebronians Calvin Moisan selected for All-State Chorus Two Hebron seniors accompanied Head of School John King and English teacher David Stonebraker on a trip to Harvard College in October to take part in the annual Prize Book Award Breakfast. The Harvard Book Prize is awarded to outstanding high-school juniors who “combine excellence in scholarship and high character with achievement in other fields,” and was awarded last spring to Emma Leavitt ’10 (above right) and Sang-Il Min ’10. In addition to recognizing the Hebron scholars, the Harvard Club awarded Mr. Stonebraker the 2009 Excellence in Teaching Award, given to “outstanding secondary teachers who inspire curiosity and excellence in students.” Mr. Stonebraker was one of only four high school teachers in New England selected this year. He has taught at Hebron for over 33 years and has served as English Department chair, Director of Admissions and Director of Studies.
Hebron students win AP honors The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program (AP) recently announced that 12 Hebron students earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams in 2008–2009. Ashley Waldron ’09 qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. Lydia Drown ’09 qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Ten students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with grades of 3 or higher: Kai Chen ’09, Claire Cummings ’09, Sarah Fensore ’09, Nien-Chia Hsu ’09, Elijah Hughes ’09, Cory O’Brien ’10, Mary Randall ’09, Leah Schultz ’09, John Speranza ’09 and Michael Zielski ’09. Through more than 30 different college-level courses and exams, the AP Program provides motivated and academically prepared students with the opportunity to earn college credit or advanced placement and stand out in the college admissions process. Each exam is developed by a committee of college and university faculty and AP teachers, ensuring that AP exams are aligned with the same high standards expected by college faculty at some of the nation’s leading liberal arts and research institutions. Over 90 percent of four-year colleges in the United States provide credit and/or placement for qualifying exam grades.
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Hebron senior and bass singer Calvin Moisan was selected to join Maine’s All-State Chorus, sponsored by the Maine Music Educators Association. Calvin auditioned in November and will attend a three-day rehearsal at the University of Maine at Orono in May, culminating in a concert performance with over 200 select voices under the direction of a nationally known choral conductor. Calvin is the son of Mary Anne Moisan of Raymond. He is a member of the Hebron Academy Chorus and the Hebeegeebees. He is also an experienced actor, appearing at Hebron as Motel in Fiddler on the Roof and Horton in Seussical, and at regional theaters around southern Maine. Dave Inglehart
Tom Hull ’64 joins Hebron board
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. Reeve Bright ’66, chair of Hebron Academy’s Board of Trustees, recently welcomed alumnus Thomas N. Hull ’64 to the board. Mr. Hull joins a group of 20 alumni and parents who are responsible for the governance of the school and oversee programs, personnel and financial operations. Mr. Hull received a bachelor’s he was involved in issues of degree in history from Dickinconflict and peace, revolution and son College, and continued his transformation, and democracy graduate education at Columbia and development. University, where he pursued Ambassador Hull’s contribuhis masters degree in education, tions during and following the M.I.A. in international affairs, collapse of communism in Prague and Certificate of the Institute earned him a Presidential Meritoriof African Studies, and was a ous Service Award from President candidate (ABD) for his doctorate Clinton. He founded the Fulbright in education. Commissions for Educational Mr. Hull’s career began as a Exchange with the Czech Republic Peace Corps Volunteer teacher in and Slovakia. Before joining the Sierra Leone from 1968 to 1970. Foreign Service, he assisted former He joined the Foreign Service, Senator J. William Fulbright at and served as Director of African the Institute of International EduAffairs at the U.S. Information cation in New York. Agency (1995–1997). He returned Currently, Mr. Hull is Warto the Republic of Sierra Leone burg Professor of International as Ambassador in 2004, where Relations at Simmons College in he assisted the country’s evoluBoston, and teaches in the politition from peacekeeping to peace cal science department. He met building. His 31-year diplomatic his wife, Jill, in 1969 when they career also included assignwere both Peace Corps Volunments in Ethiopia, South Africa, teers in Sierra Leone. They have Nigeria, Czechoslovakia, Somalia, one daughter, Kirsten. Burkina Faso and Congo, where Susan R. Geismar
the academy
Ms. Reedy runs in circles A number of people have asked me, “How can you stand to run in circles?” and “How do you keep track of how your laps on the indoor track?” Here is the answer: it is simple and fun! To run a mile, I do four laps in one direction, switch and run three, switch again and run two. Bingo! Nine laps equals one mile. It is easy to count to four (I keep track on my fingers) and all even laps are in the same direction so I don’t get confused.
For other distances, try: 4 3 2 = 1 mile 5 4 3 2 = 1.5 miles 6 5 4 3 = 2 miles 7 6 5 4 3 2 = 3 miles 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 = 4 miles 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 = 5 miles 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 = 6 miles Have fun and see you around the track!
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 5
the academy
Snapshot: the Class of 2013
First row: Haley Grimmer, A’Nyce Munroe, Brad Spurr, Sam Kinasewich, Roz Moisan, Haley Bisson, Laurent Yomantas, Noelle Giguere. Second row: Ian Stanley, Emily Wyman, Molly Witten, Sam Futch, Sydney Randall, Josh Hews, Dexter Tarbox. Third row: Brad Geismar, Robbie Berube, Henry Dun, Pat Shelley, Adria Hughes, Leah Orsini. Fourth row: Quinn Fogarty, Davis Hart, Nick Mosher, Matthew Bouchard, Zach Langham, Gerrad Kang, Raymond Rawls, Bryant Colon, Max Motew, Martin Kepner. Not pictured: Ryan Ratsep.
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hat do Hebron students look like in the early part of the Academy’s third century? Let’s take a look at this year’s ninth grade class as school opened. Hebron’s classes form an inverted pyramid, with the senior class generally the largest and the freshman class the smallest. This class, with 32 members, follows that trend (the class of 2010 is 71 strong). The gender breakdown—20 boys and 12 girls—reflects the 64% to 36% ratio in the Upper School. Unlike the overall Upper School (70% boarding), however, the ninth 6 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
graders are evenly divided between day and boarding students. Thirteen boarders hail from Florida, Georgia, Illinois (2), Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts (4), New Hampshire and New York (2); the remaining three call the Bahamas, Canada and Korea home. Nine members of the class attended Hebron’s Middle School for one, two or three years. Two have younger siblings currently at Hebron, nine have one or more older siblings either at Hebron or recently graduated, and one is the son of an alumnus.
the academy Veterans Day observed On November 11 the Upper School gathered for a special community meeting to recognize and honor Veterans Day. The program began with a fine performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by the Hebeegeebees, followed by individual student presentations. Andy Churchill ’10 spoke of the history of Veterans Day, initiated in commemoration of those who fought in the Great War, World War I. Kyle Black ’10 noted that the license plates in his home province, Quebec, are inscribed: “Je me souviens.” Kyle said, “It means, ‘I remember’... I remember those who served and made personal sacrifices for my country, my homeland, my home. I do not take their selfless actions for granted. I remember.” Colin Taylor ’10, also from Quebec, recited the famous poem, “In Flanders Field,” written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD, of the Canadian
Army, and explained the history of how it came to be written. Other students focused on men and women they considered truly heroic. Seniors Chris Gacsy and Dillon Lyons spoke of Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez, mentioned in John McCain’s Why Courage Matters. Alex Mills ’12 and Emma Leavitt ’10 highlighted Edith Cavell, a British war hero of WWI. Jeremy Klevens ‘10 talked about his personal hero, Benito Juarez, a Zapotec Indian who became president of Mexico and is “regarded as [its] greatest and most beloved leader.” Senior Je Yeon Ko told the story of a sixteenth century Korean heroine,
The Hebeegeebees, Hebron’s a cappella group, performed the national anthem under the direction of Fine Arts Department chair Beth Barefoot.
Nongae. Erika Thomas ’11 described the Medal of Honor, and told the story of Lieutenant Commander Joseph O’Callahan, the first chaplain to receive this honor. “He was a man of peace, a hero in war.” Jeremy Laing ’12
played guitar during two meditative pauses. The program was organized by Language Department chair Cynthia Reedy. Beth Barefoot, chair of the Fine Arts Department, directs the Hebeegeebees.
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Hebron web site hosts Civil War resource
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Among the extensive text offerings are the speeches of Abraham Lincoln, left.
ave Inglehart, historian and Hebron teacher, is pleased to make his comprehensive Civil War resource available on Hebron Academy’s web site. In Fateful Lightning, Mr. Inglehart has gathered text, images, maps and music together to provide a comprehensive source for Civil War research. Visit Hebron’s library resources page to take a look for yourself: http://www.hebronacademy.org/academy/library/resources.asp
The map collection includes a survey of election results from the Civil War period, below.
A gallery of images, left, helps students see the places where important Civil War events took place.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 7
the academy Behind the scenes at Forum rehearsal “Tragedy tomorrow, comedy tonight!” Broadway’s greatest farce is light, fast-paced, witty, irreverent and one of the funniest musicals ever written—the perfect escape from life’s troubles. A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum takes comedy back to its roots, combining situations from time-tested, 2000-year-old comedies of Roman playwright Plautus with the infectious energy of classic vaudeville. The result is a non-stop laugh-fest in which a crafty slave (Pseudolus) struggles to win the hand of a beautiful but slow-witted courtesan (Philia) for his young master (Hero), in exchange for freedom.
Cast members rehearse the opening number, “Comedy Tonight,.” with music director Beth Barefoot (at piano) and director Julie Middleton (far right).
The Hebron Academy Players present
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum Logo by Peter de Seve © 1995
Book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Based on the plays of Plautus
Friday, February 26 and Saturday, February 27, 2010 Androscoggin Theater • Lepage Center for the Arts Hebron Academy Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International
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Clockwise from bottom left: Nick Stuer ’10 (Miles Gloriosus) and cast members learn “Funeral”; Calvin Moisan ’10 plays Pseudolus, the slave who orchestrates most of the action; Scott Higgins ’10 and Max Middleton ’12 are the old men Erronius and Senex, while Sydney Randall ’13 plays a goddess; working on the opening number choreography.
the academy
Pink in the rink
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nspired by a similar fundraiser done by her brother, assistant girls’ hockey coach Katie Coyne first proposed a Pink Socks game to her team last year. “The girls were all over it, she said. “An excuse to wear pink! They were in.” Now an annual event, this year many parents and faculty donated baked goods and helped to run the table. Players Mariah Mosher ’12 and Ally Strachan ’12 made a fleece blanket for a raffle and school receptionist Pat Hutter donated a Longaberger basket. “We raised just over $700,” Ms. Coyne said. “It will go to a local chapter of the Maine Breast Cancer Coalition which helps women going through treatment who need financial help.”
Community responds to earthquake disaster A t first glance, a New England prep school—Hebron Academy—and a tiny Caribbean nation—Haiti—would appear to have little in common. But as so often happens, Hebron’s people are directly connected to the terrible events that continue to unfold even as this issue of the Semester goes to press. Two students have immediate family members either in Haiti, and English teacher Donna Inglehart heard from a former Northfield Mount Hermon student who was working with the United Nations in Port au Prince. The morning after the earthquake, he wrote, “Last night we treated 200
arms, distributing water, and begging for food. The UN headquarters has collapsed and is no longer functioning. There is just no infrastructure.” At Community Meeting the next morning, Head of School John King spoke of the difficulty of comprehending the implications of an event this devastating. “Even in rural Maine,” he said, “We are personally connected to this disaster.” Assistant Head Brian Jurek asked students and faculty to think of ways to keep the events present in their minds. Teachers Cynthia Marsden and Gino Valeriani compiled lists of web sites for
money with an impromptu bake sale in the dorms. Hebron baker Gail Trundy shared her Rice Krispies treats recipe and pans, Mrs. Inglehart and Mrs. King turned out the treats, and advisees and other students pitched in to sell the goodies. Many students made additional donations. By the end of the night, the treats sale had raised over $200, and Thursday Night Treats was inaugurated. The following week, Mr. Jurek upped the ante with a pizza sale and more community bakers have stepped forward for the weeks to come. Rob MacLellan ‘11 is working on projects that
benefit basketball games. Art teacher Mary Anderson is selling beautiful sun catchers, donating all proceeds to Hebron’s relief effort. Many adults in the community have made personal contributions to the fund. After consideration of many of the various charities working in Haiti, the school chose Doctors Without Borders—an international, politically independent group of doctors and nurses who donate their skills—as the beneficiary of the funds raised. Although the amount raised so far may seem small, Hebron students understand that in such a dire
people with basic first aid kits and lost many.... The city was flattened, every third house just a pancake or collapsing. Have been holding children in my
donations. Moved by the plight of the Haitian people and by the clear need to help, Mrs. Inglehart’s advisees decided to start raising
include dress-down days (students may wear jeans during the class day in exchange for a small donation), and Jean Baptiste ‘10 is putting together
situation, even a dollar can make a difference, and their response thus far has been generous and heartfelt.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 9
the academy
Annual hockey game draws record crowd
Front: Cam Laurie ’08, Buildings and Grounds supervisor and parent Mike Hughes, George Dycio ’78, Andrew Cetola ’09, John Slattery ’04, Craig Clark ’70 and Kevin Osborne ’01. Back: Derek Gilbreth ’09, Keith MacDonald ’08, Chris Dyer ’02, parent Michael Blais, Chris Roy ’07, Josh Mosher ’09, parent Ed Taylor, Joe Fountain ’09, Erik Wisutskie ’09, Jason Goodman ’08, Adam Smith ’09, Chad Goodwin ’09, Craig Ryan ’09, Nick Costanzo ’08, Matt Siracusa ’09, James LeBlanc ’02, Ricky Draleau ’02, Dan Carpentier ’03, Pat Taylor ’00, Adam Asselin ’01, coach Matt Plante.
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record crowd laced up skates for this year’s alumni/parent hockey game. About 30 players showed up for the annual game, including alumni spanning 39 years (1970 to 2009), parents and employees. The teams matched each other goal for goal until the middle of the third period when one edged out the other for a final score of 15–11. Players and friends enjoyed lunch in the athletic center afterwards and many stayed to watch a full slate of Hebron games, both hockey and basketball.
Top left: game officials and varsity captains Bryan Felice ’10 and Chris Gacsy ’10. Top right: perennial attendee George Dycio ’78 in his vintage goalie gear. Bottom left and right: the action at Robinson Arena.
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the academy John Slattery ’04 joins Advancement staff
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ead of School John King is pleased to announce that John Slattery ’04 has joined Hebron Academy’s Advancement Office as gifts officer. A four-year day student from Minot, John was president of the senior class and received the Hebron Cup at Commencement. He went to St. Lawrence University, where he majored in economics and government and
worked as a student caller for the Advancement department. After graduating John moved to Brooklyn, New York, to work at Portland House Advisors, a hedge fund. Although he loved living and working in New York, the economy intervened and his company eliminated his position. “I decided to really enjoy the summer and then look around to see what kind of work I could do,” he said. He returned to Hebron as an intern this fall, helping out in the dormitories, on the football field, and in the Admission, Business and Advancement offices. “I was looking for a way to give back to Hebron,” he said. “When I heard about the gifts officer position I felt that it was the best fit for my skill set.”
Charitable Gift Annuities
A Gift for Uncertain Times Why does charitable giving survive economic downdrafts? Because people continue to care about the causes they have long supported and donate generously even when they have less to give. They also tend to be more astute in their charitable gifts. For example, one of the more popular forms of giving these days is a device known as the charitable gift annuity. These are particularly well-liked because they provide such a high degree of stability. The words “charitable gift” suggests that this giving tool is recognized by the IRS as an acceptable way to make a taxdeductible gift. Because such gifts are irrevocable, they entail several attractive benefits. The term “annuity” means that the donor (or someone designated by the donor) will receive annual fixed payments for life. This amount is established at the outset and
will remain stable no matter what happens to the economy. A charitable gift annuity is a combination gift: part donation and part annuity. A portion of what you give eventually goes to Hebron to fund perhaps a permanently endowed fund, and the other portion is returned to you in the form of regular, dependable annuity payments. The amount a gift annuity produces over one’s lifespan,
John Slattery ’04 helped coach the football team this fall before joining the Advancement staff as gifts officer.
In the next few weeks John will begin visiting alumni, parents and friends and is relishing the challenge of moving from student life to his new role. “I’m looking forward to traveling and meeting interesting and successful people,” he said. “Taking this
job has changed my perspective on the importance of giving. I hope to have an impact on Hebron students through my contributions on campus and financially through my efforts to help secure support for both the Hebron Annual Fund and the Campus Master Plan.”
as well as the charitable gift amount, is determined when the charitable gift annuity is established. It depends on several factors, including the age of the person(s) receiving the payments and the amount of the gift. Consider this example: Mr. and Mrs. Smith are both 70 years of age. They wrote a check to Hebron Academy for $25,000 to in exchange for a charitable gift annuity. Because of their life expectancy, the current rates
provided by Hebron Academy, and a calculation factor provided by the government, they sign a contract with Hebron Academy to receive $1,300 every year for the rest of their lives. They are also able to claim a charitable income tax deduction for $7,084. Charitable gift annuities make sense in these uncertain times because they provide regular, fixed, and partially taxfree payments. The Smiths have also provided an estimated gift of $25,000 to Hebron Academy.
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f you would like to learn more about establishing a charitable gift annuity at Hebron Academy, please contact Tom Fogarty, Assistant Head of School for Advancement and External Relations at 207-966-5285 or by e-mail at tfogarty@ hebronacademy.org for a no-obligation personal illustration as well as information about how charitable gift annuities work.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 11
the academy
Three inducted into Hebron Athletic Hall of Fame T
he three athletes honored this year span more than forty-five years of Hebron athletic tradition and captained teams which set standards for dedication and outstanding performance. In their lives, these honorees have modeled the finest spirit of athletic competition and highest standards of citizenship and integrity. Academy as president of the Athletic Council and president of the Class of 1939. As tribute to another era of Hebron sports, it is an honor to welcome Dick to Hebron’s Athletic Hall of Fame.
soccer and has helped to recruit students to Hebron from western New York. He has continued his interests in youth and amateur sport at home in Watertown, New York, where he was president of the Watertown Red and Black Football Club through the 80’s and helped lead the club to an Empire League football championship in 1980. With a big right foot trained on the soccer pitch at Hebron, he scored 314 points as a place kicker for the Red and Black. We are pleased to welcome Judge James Harberson to Hebron Academy’s Athletic Hall of Fame.
Richard C. Bonser ’39 In the years before the Second World War, Hebron’s student body was composed predominantly of upper class boys, and its teams traveled throughout New England to compete with schools and colleges. In the fall of 1938, Dick Bonser was captain of the Hebron football team, a team which defeated all of its school opponents, losing only to the Brown University reserves. With an undefeated record for school play, the team was declared “Maine Champions.” The team also defeated the Exeter Academy football squad by a final score of 25–0 in a game that the school publication, the Hebronian, called “one of Hebron’s greatest victories ever.” To honor that game Dick Bonser and his teammates signed a commemorative football that is still displayed in the school’s Bell-Lipman Archives. An interior lineman on offense and defense who played in every game, Dick Bonser led his team by example in the same way that he led Hebron
James C. Harberson, Jr. ’59 Jim Harberson came to Hebron in the fall of 1955 and immediately began to make his mark athletically, playing football, ice hockey and baseball in his freshman year. He would continue with hockey and baseball throughout his Hebron years, earning letters in these sports in his junior and senior years, but Jim made a greater impact as a member of Hebron’s first soccer teams. Starting right fullback and letter winner for three years and captain of the team for his junior and senior years, “Harbo” helped to set the work ethic, spirit and character of his teams and to establish a proud tradition of Hebron soccer that continues today. He returned to campus in the ’70s to participate in alumni
12 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
Charles H. Lownes ’84 At Hebron, Charlie Lownes was “Mr. Swimming.” He played water polo and swam for all four of his years at Hebron. He was captain of both teams, achieved Most Valuable Swimmer recognition, became a State of Maine and New England champion and was named a high school All-American in swimming. He was also the president of the Class of 1984, a proctor and winner of the Athletic Prize. He continued to excel as a swimmer at Denison where he was captain and Most Valuable Swimmer in both his junior and senior years and earned AllAmerican standing an incredible 16
times in various events. While in the Peace Corps from 1988–1991 he became coach of the Guatemalan National Swim Team. Since 1991, he has made his home in Cincinnati, Ohio, coaching several school and club teams. Now with the University School Swim Club, he coaches swimmers from 28 different high schools. He has helped many young swimmers to achieve the technique and self-discipline to compete, as he did, at the college level, and several of his swimmers have reached the national team and Olympic trials. For his success at the highest levels of his sport, for his dedication and passion for swimming, and for giving back to the sport he loves, Charlie Lownes is our final inductee to the Athletic Hall of Fame for 2009. Dick Bonser, Jim Harberson and Charlie Lownes are men who have exemplified most wonderfully the finest spirit of athletic competition, leadership, and fair play and who, in their lives, have demonstrated devotion to people and community, high ideals, friendliness, endeavor and responsibility—all qualities which are at the heart of the Hebron experience. Leslie A. Guenther Athletic Director Hebron Academy’s Athletic Hall of Fame was established in 2008 to honor Hebron athletes, coaches and supporters for their contributions to sport at Hebron and beyond. See page 14 for information on making a nomination for 2010.
the academy
Fall sports roundup
D
espite soggy Saturdays on Homecoming and Parents Weekend, the Lumberjack athletic teams enjoyed another successful fall season of favorable weather and fine play. Over 170 students (82% of our upper school) participated on 10 different athletic teams at the varsity and JV levels, while nearly all of our 42 middle school students participated on our middle school soccer teams. The girls’ JV soccer team culminated a season filled with progress by winning an exciting maisad tournament semifinal game in overtime at Hyde. With the win, the girls earned a trip to the championship game where they came up just short against a talented Kents Hill squad. Overtime continued to be a theme at tournament time. The girls’ varsity soccer team advanced to the maisad championship game after an exciting overtime win against the visiting Kents Hill Huskies. The two teams had met twice during the regular season and each of those two games had ended in a tie, and this contest proved to be no different. Tied again after regulation play and two overtime periods, the Lumberjacks eventually topped Kents Hill in dramatic fashion on penalty kicks. The team then advanced to the championship game with Hyde, falling just short by a final score of 0–1. The boys’ varsity team had an easier road to the maisad championship game, winning comfortably over the visiting Hyde Phoenix in semifinal action. The Lumberjacks then advanced to the championship game to face off against Kents Hill. Regulation play ended in a tie and the score remained tied after 20 minutes of overtime play. The tie-breaker then moved to PKs where the Lumberjacks, after 5 kicks, fell just one goal short (2–3). The boys’ JV soccer team and the girls’ varsity field hockey team also advanced to their respective maisad championship games. Congratulations to the boys’ JV team on their sixth consecutive maisad championship title and to the field hockey team for earning their fifth consecutive title. The golf team had their share of the success as well, finishing as co-champions in the maisad stroke play event.
Seniors Jean Baptiste (25), Brian McDonald (20) and Nick Stuer (72) line up for the snap.
Hebron’s scores are listed first
Football 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7 11/14
Proctor Portsmouth Abbey Pingree Tilton Hyde CT Holderness Hyde ME Kents Hill
12 20 20 13 38 6 12 26
14 16 62 26 13 30 28 28
Brewster Jamboree Brewster Kents Hill Gould New Hampton
1 0 5 1 0 1 2
1 6 0 1 3 0 3
1(4) 1(2) 0
1
Girls’ JV Soccer
Girls’ Varsity Soccer 9/19 9/30 10/6 10/10 10/14
10/16 Waynflete (OT) 10/17 Holderness 10/21 Kents Hill 10/28 Tilton (OT) 10/31 KUA 11/2 Gould 11/4 Proctor (OT) 11/6 maisad semi vs. Kents Hill (OT PK) 11/11 maisad final vs. Hyde
0 7 3 0
3 0 0 1
The field hockey team earned their fifth consecutive maisad title this fall.
9/23 9/26 9/30 10/3 10/7 10/14 10/17 10/21 10/24
Hyde Holderness Hyde Kents Hill Kents Hill Waynflete Gould Holderness Gould
1 0 0 5 1 4 cancelled 0 2 0 4 3 3 0 6 cancelled
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 13
the academy 10/28 Proctor 10/31 Kents Hill 11/4 maisad semi vs. Hyde (OT) 11/9 maisad final vs. Kents Hill
0 7 cancelled 5
4
0
3
Boys’ Varsity Soccer 9/19 Holderness Jamboree 9/24 Richmond 1 0 9/26 Proctor 2 1 9/30 Hyde 3 2 10/3 Kents Hill 1 2 10/5 Rangeley HS 6 0 10/7 Bowdoin JV 1 2 10/10 Brewster 4 3 10/14 Holderness 2 3 10/17 Gould 6 0 10/21 Tilton 3 7 10/22 Richmond 2 1 10/28 CVA 1 0 10/31 Kents Hill cancelled 11/4 Bridgton 0 4 11/5 Gould cancelled 11/6 Kents Hill cancelled 11/7 Hyde 6 1 11/11 maisad semi vs. Hyde 3 1 11/14 maisad final vs. Kents Hill (OT) 0 1
Boys’ JV Soccer 9/23 Holderness 9/26 Proctor 9/30 Hyde 10/3 CVA 10/10 Hyde 10/12 Kents Hill 10/14 Waynflete 10/17 Gould 10/21 Tilton 10/24 Gould 10/31 Kents Hill 11/4 maisad semi vs. Hyde 11/6 maisad final vs. Gould
1 6 6 1 4 0 cancelled 7 0 4 0 5 1 2 1 1 5 cancelled cancelled 3
1
3
0
Boys’ Thirds Soccer 9/23 9/26 9/30 10/3 10/9 10/10 10/17 10/21 10/24 10/28
Berwick Holderness Proctor CVA Kents Hill Gould Gould Kents Hill Holderness Gould
cancelled 1 6 1 3 cancelled 0 4 0 1 2 3 0 8 cancelled 0 1
Hebron Academy Athletic Hall of Fame Established in 2008 to honor student-athletes, coaches, administrators and supporters who have brought distinction to themselves and Hebron Academy through their exemplary achievement, contribution, sportsmanship or leadership.
Congratulations to the boys’ JV soccer team on their sixth consecutive MAISAD title!
Field Hockey 9/19 Brewster Jamboree 9/30 Brewster 10/6 Kents Hill 10/10 Gould 10/14 New Hampton 10/16 Waynflete (OT) 10/17 Holderness 10/21 Kents Hill 10/28 Tilton (OT) 10/31 KUA 11/2 Gould 11/4 Proctor (OT) 11/6 maisad semi 11/11 maisad final vs. Gould
0 3 7 0 3 0 0 1 1 1 0 6 5 0 1 1 0 3 1 0 2 3 bye 2
0
Golf 9/23 9/30 10/2 10/7 10/14
Kents Hill Gould Kents Hill Bridgton Bridgton
5 1 21⁄2 31⁄2 41⁄2 11⁄2 cancelled 2 0
10/16 Gould 51⁄2 10/21 maisad stroke play 10/28 maisad scramble
⁄2
Cross Country 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/14 10/17 10/24 10/28 11/14
Hyde Invitational Hebron Invitational Gould Invitational Elan Relays @UMA Kents Hill Invitational Hebron Inv. cancelled maisads @UMA New Englands @Berwick
Mountain Biking 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31
Eligibility Alumni—participant in Hebron athletics and graduated at least 10 years prior to the year of election Coaches and athletic administrators—must have had at least a 10-year career at Hebron Faculty and supporters—must have made a significant contribution for at least 10 years of Hebron athletics
Nominations Submit your nominations in writing or electronically by May 31, 2010, to Danielle Plante, Hebron Academy, PO Box 309, Hebron ME 04238 (dplante@hebronacademy.org). Please include a brief but thorough summary of the nominee’s accomplishment and why he/she/they should be inducted. Self-nominations will not be accepted. New members will be inducted during Homecoming Weekend. The cross country team on a beautiful fall day.
14 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
1
Camden Invitational Gould Invitational Gould Inv. cancelled CVA Invitational Kents Hill Invitational Hebron Inv. cancelled maisad championship
the academy
Winter athletic schedule Girls’ Varsity Basketball Hyde/Roman Tournament 12/4 Kents Hill 6:00 12/5 Hyde 12:00 12/10 OOB 5:00 12/12 Pine Tree Acad. 5:30 12/16 Kents Hill 4:30 12/18 Buckfield 3:15 1/6 Pine Tree Acad. 5:30 1/8 Hyde 4:30 1/9 Traip Academy 3:30 1/11 Richmond 5:30 1/13 Grtr Prtlnd Chrstn 3:00 1/16 NYA 2:00 1/19 Buckfield 4:00 1/20 Waynflete 3:00 1/23 Seacoast 5:00 1/26 Seacoast 4:30 1/27 Sacopee 5:30 1/30 NYA 3:00 2/1 Grtr Prtlnd Chrstn 4:00 2/4 Kents Hill 4:30
A A H A H A H H A H A H H A A H A A H A
Boys’ Varsity Basketball 11/30 NYA (scrimmage) 4:30 12/2 Tilton 4:00 Hyde/Roman Tournament 12/4 Kents Hill 7:30 12/5 Hyde 1:30 12/10 Putnam Sci. Acad. 7:00 12/12 St. Andrews 2:00 12/16 Kents Hill 3:00 Lawrence/Groton Tournament 12/18 Cushing 6:00 12/19 Lawrence 10:30 1/11 Hyde 4:45
H H A A H H H A A A
1/13 1/15 1/16 1/20 1/22 1/30 2/3 2/10 2/12 2/13 2/17 2/24
New Hampton “B” 4:00 St. Andrews 7:00 Marianapolis 12:00 Brewster “B” 4:00 Tilton 4:00 Brimmer and May 3:00 Brewster “B” 4:00 Berwick 4:30 Vermont Acad. 7:00 Kimball Union 1:30 Kents Hill 3:00 Holderness 3:45
H A A H A A A H A A A H
Boys’ JV Basketball 12/7 12/12 1/8 1/11 1/13 1/16 1/22 1/25 1/29 2/1 2/11 2/13
Richmond Gould Buckfield Richmond Hyde Kents Hill Gould Buckfield Berwick Buckfield Hyde Kents Hill
4:30 2:30 3:00 4:00 3:30 4:30 3:00 4:00 4:00 3:00 5:00 3:00
A A H H A H H H A A H A
Girls’ Varsity Hockey 12/2 Tilton 4:00 12/4 NEWHL 6:00 12/5 Governor’s Acad. 5:15 12/9 St. Dom’s 3:30 12/12 Gunnery 4:00 12/13 Gunnery 11:30 St. George’s Tournament 12/18 Greenwich 3:30
Robinson Arena Public Skating
Every Sunday November 8, 2009–March 7, 2010
2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Adults: $3.00 Children 12 and under: $2.00 Skating sessions are free for children participating in the Maine WinterKids Passport program.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Absolutely no hockey sticks, pucks or other objects are allowed on the ice during this time.
H H A H H H A
12/18 12/19 1/8 1/9 1/13 1/16 1/20 1/23 1/27 1/29 1/30 2/3 2/5 2/6 2/10 2/13 2/14 2/17 2/19 2/20 2/27
St. George’s 8:30 Thayer 9:15 BB&N 5:00 Pingree 2:00 Kents Hill 2:45 Stanstead 2:00 NYA 4:00 Proctor 7:00 New Hampton 4:45 Exeter 5:00 Brewster 3:45 Holderness 4:00 Middlesex 4:30 Rivers TBA Berwick 4:00 Canterbury 7:00 Winchendon 1:00 Proctor 5:00 Kents Hill 5:00 New Hampton 3:00 NYA 12:00
A A A H H H A H H A A H A A A A A A A A H
Boys’ Varsity Hockey 11/24 Exeter 2:30 11/30 Lawrence (scrm) 11:00 12/2 Holderness 4:30 12/4 Bridgton 4:00 12/11 Acad. St. Louis 7:00 12/12 Pingree 2:00 Exeter Showcase 12/18 South Kent 3:30 12/19 Stanstead 12:30 12/19 Wyoming Sem. 6:00 Belmont Hill Tournament 12/28 Belmont Hill 9:00 12/28 KUA 8:00 12/29 Ridley College 1:00 12/30 C’ship rounds TBA 1/4 Boston Bulldogs 7:00 1/6 New Hampton 4:30 1/9 South Kent TBA 1/10 South Kent TBA 1/13 Berwick 5:00 1/15 Stanstead 8:00 1/16 Kents Hill 7:00 1/20 Bridgton 4:00 1/23 Holderness 5:00 1/27 Vermont @Exeter 4:00 1/29 Hoosac 7:00 1/30 Brewster 5:30 2/3 NYA 4:00 2/10 Berwick 4:30 2/13 Governor’s Acad. 6:00 2/17 New Hampton 4:00 2/19 Cushing 6:00 2/20 Tilton 5:00 2/24 NYA 4:00 2/27 Kents Hill 12:00
A A A H H H A A A A A A A H A A A A H H A H A H A A H A H A A H A
Boys’ JV Hockey 12/3 St. Dom’s 4:00 H 12/5 NYA 2:00 H 12/9 Berwick 4:00 A 12/11 Acad. St. Louis 5:00 H 12/12 Acad. St. Louis 10:00 H JV Prep School Tournament @NYA 12/18 Berwick 2:00 A 12/18 Kents Hill 6:00 A 12/19 NYA 9:00 A 12/19 C’ship game 12:00 A 1/6 St. Dom’s 3:30 H 1/8 Casco Bay 7:00 H 1/9 Tilton 5:00 A 1/13 New Hampton 4:45 H 1/16 Kents Hill 4:00 H 1/20 Brewster 4:00 H 1/22 Acad. St. Louis 5:00 H 1/23 Acad. St. Louis 10:00 H 1/27 Kents Hill 3:00 A 1/29 NYA 4:00 A 1/30 Maine Pre-Preps 12:00 H 2/3 Brewster 4:00 A 2/12 Holderness 4:15 A 2/17 Kents Hill 3:00 A 2/19 NYA 4:00 H 2/20 New Hampton 1:00 A
Alpine Skiing 1/13 GS @Shawnee 1/20 GS @Sunday Riv. 1/22 SL @Kents Hill 1/27 SL @Sunday Riv. 2/3 GS @Shawnee 2/5 SL @Kents Hill 2/10 New Englands 2/12 maisad C’ship @Shawnee
2:30 2:00 2:30 2:00 2:30 2:30 9:00
H A A A H A A
1:00 H
Snowboarding 1/13 SS @Sunday Riv. 1/20 BA @Kents Hill 1/22 SS @Sunday Riv. 1/27 BA @Kents Hill 1/29 SS @Sunday Riv. 2/3 HP @Sunday Riv. 2/10 maisad Boarder Cross @Sun. Riv.
2:00 2:30 2:00 2:30 2:00 2:00
A A A A A A
2:30 A
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 15
The Bell Ringing out for victory by David W. Stonebraker
G
ould Academy had one—in the courtyard of the Bingham Building. Kents Hill had one—in the tower of Bearce Hall. Hebron had had one—at the top of the hill adjacent to the path down to the Dwyer Fields—but ice damage in recent years had led to its removal. Now the officers of the Class of 1984—Charlie Lownes, Sue Radd, John Dill and Arthur Rotch—set about to make a difference, to renew the tradition of ringing out the news of victories to the campus on a victory bell. They determined to locate a suitable replacement bell as their class gift. And what a wonderful bell they found. If memory serves, John Dill got wind of it first, a church bell that had been removed from its steeple and was presently resting in weeds in Hallowell, on the banks of the Kennebec. The officers took a field trip. Yes, it was a bell. Yes, it was available, and with the deal consummated, the real challenges began: to transport the bell to Hebron and find a way to mount it. A photograph published in the Hebronian shows the bell resting on timbers in front of Sargent Gymnasium on Commencement morning. It was cast by Henry Hooper & Company of Boston in 1867 and weighs 1487 pounds. The diameter of the bottom is thirty-five inches. Maintenance supervisor Lew Williams designed and constructed a support platform
of massive raw hemlock beams that were blind mortised and pinned in a configuration that required no external hardware. The platform was readied, a crane hired, and the bell was swung onto its supporting platform overlooking the west end of Dwyer Fields in April of 1985 where it has rung out Hebron victories for twenty-five years. Over time the wheel—the wooden track which holds the bell rope—disintegrated, and it became increasingly difficult to set the bell’s 3⁄4 ton mass into motion. For the occasion of the Class of 1984’s 15th Reunion, I salvaged bits of wood from the old wheel and used them for patterns to construct a new six foot wheel. With the wheel restored came a new problem. Energetic teams pulling together on the rope were now capable of completely spinning
Lew Williams and Vern Record install the new bell and frame in April 1985.
16 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
Hebron’s victory bell was cast by Boston’s Henry Hooper & Company in 1867. It weighs 1487 pounds and is 35 inches across.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 17
Building and Grounds Director Michael Hughes (atop frame, left) and his crew relocated the bell to the hillside near the new athletic center in 2008.
Intrepid photographer Dennis Griggs climbed the bell frame in 1997 to shoot the field hockey team ringing in victory from a different angle.
the massive bell on its bearings, a potentially catastrophic situation for both bell and bodies! Enter Jim Bryant, towerclockman and mechanic to Hebron’s tower clock, who fabricated a solution of flexible leaf spring retards that allow the bell to swing freely on its pivot but not rotate through a full circle.
Hebron’s teams could now pull as vigorously and joyously as they wished. With the completion of the Athletic Center, Michael Hughes, current Director of Buildings and Grounds, supervised the move of both the bell and its platform—intact—from the west end of Dwyer Fields to its present location adjacent to the Athletic
The Class of 2009 inaugurated a new tradition: ringing the bell together after the formal Commencement ceremony is over.
18 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
Center and above the Allen and Dwyer fields. And at Commencement for the Class of 2009, a new Hebron tradition began. Led by their class officers, Elijah Hughes, Claire Cummings and Yu Zhang, the Class of 2009 announced their graduation, together, with a pealing of the great bell.
The bell’s new location puts it in the middle of the field complex, rather than at one end.
Tradition and legacy meet J
ust as many alumni return annually to the place of special meaning that is Hebron, I, too, had made plans to attend the 2009 Homecoming. This year’s Homecoming was special to me because it was my 25th reunion. However, I came away from this weekend in awe of who is writing my script. Reflecting back on the past 25 years I have come to realize how much of an impact Hebron has had on my life, but what happened on campus during the weekend of October 2–3, 2009, was amazing. Before sharing this story, though, I must step back in time some 25 years ago. My father passed away when I was six. As you would suspect, I had grown up missing some of the usual father-son moments. In 1983, hoping for a better path, I chose to go to Hebron for a postgraduate year. I had no idea how someday things might come full circle. My first few months at Hebron were not without difficulty. During the first week of double football practices, I blew out my knee and required surgery, putting me in a hip-to-ankle cast for the first few months. Suffice it to say that my love for Hebron had not yet been contemplated. During my one year tenure at Hebron there were a few brief moments, however, that are etched into my mind. Only later would I become aware of them and the impact they would have on who I would become. At commencement I was like most graduates, thinking that I was glad to have Hebron in my rearview mirror and looking forward to college and the rest of my life. That life would most assuredly not involve much, if anything, of Hebron. How wrong I was! Since graduation I have found a love for the Academy that has grown steadily over the years as has my involvement and
commitment. Most recently I even became the chair of the Hebron Academy Advisory Council. Not bad for a wayward boy from Arlington, Massachusetts. Now, fast forwarding to more recent history: This past spring my oldest son was accepted to Hebron as a sophomore and is now living in Atwood. To my delight he went out for football. Ironically enough in his first week at Hebron he broke his arm and ended up in a cast, just like his old man. But wait...there is more. While on campus for my 25th reunion I learned to my surprise that our class gift to the school was a bell. Apparently this innocent gift of some 25 years ago is known as Hebron’s victory bell. Every team that wins a home game runs to the bell to ring out the victory. Many of my returning classmates were equally surprised. So much time had passed that we had all forgotten what our class gift was. As my classmates and I gathered on Saturday it was suggested that we all meet at the bell for a reunion class photo. Shortly after the class picture was taken the Hebron football team entered the field to take on Portsmouth Abbey. As luck would have it on this day Hebron would win the football game in the last minutes. As I watched the team run up to the bell to ring in the first victory of the 2009 season I was consumed by the moment. What I was witnessing, to my amazement, was my son for his first time pulling on the rope of the bell that his father had been part of donating 25 years earlier. In talking to my son after the game and telling him this story he said, “That’s pretty cool, Dad, but did you know that before the game instead of saying ‘go Lumberjacks’ this time they said ‘RING THE BELL!’?” John Donahue ’84
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 19
Maine
Montpelier
Roadtrip!
Michigan
Albany
New York
L. Erie
Boston Providence
Rhode Island Connecticut
From Hebron to Hebron, via Hebron
Harrisburg
Ohio
Trenton
New Jersey
Maryland
Columbus
Annapolis Dover
diana Frankfort
Hartford
Massachusetts
New York City
Pennsylvania
anapolis
New Hampshire
Concord
L. Ontario
Lansing
Augusta
Vermont
Lake Huron
Nova Scoti
Delaware Washington DC West ave you ever wondered how many other towns named Hebron are Virginia Richmond
Charleston
H
Atlantic Ocean
out there? Where they are? What their stories are? We decided to do
some looking and thanks to the internet, with its vast array of maps and
Virginia databases, we were able to pull together the information that follows. In fact, there
Kentucky
was so much information that we had to edit to make it manageable. We looked
only at Hebrons Raleigh in the United States, although we know there are some in Canada. also eliminated Mount Hebron, New Hebron, Hebronville and the like. We North We Carolina
Nashville
ended up with more than forty “populated places” or “civil divisions” of which about
nnessee
a third were simply country crossroads. We chose to look at the actual towns and threw in a couple of quirky or interesting “places in the road” as well.
Atlanta
abama
Columbia Like “our” Hebron, many of these towns appear to be named for the biblical
South Carolina town. Many sprang up around transportation hubs—mostly railroads—but one,
Ohio, near a canal. The northeastern towns are mostly spread out on country roads that follow the ridges and valleys of the mountains. The midwestern towns are
Maine
ontgomery
State name
usually neatly patterned grids of streets, sometimes sliced through by a railroad or
Georgia
river. We had great fun dropping into the streets of these towns to take a look (thank State capital Augusta you, Google street view!) and imagining what life might be like there. Someday we’ll hit the road and find out for ourselves.
Tallahassee
Notes
Roadtrip Hebron Other Hebron Roadtrip route
The population figures came from the 2000 Census, available online at the American Fact Finder: factfinder.census.gov/home/saff/ Elevations are from the USGS database at geonames.usgs.gov/pls/gnispublic/
Florida
20 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
Maine Est. 1792
Pop. 1053
Elev. 571
Our Hebron was founded by Revolutionary War veterans, who were given land in exchange for their service. The first inhabitants settled the town, built a church and established a school. Their request to name the town Columbia was denied by the Massachusetts General Court and they were assigned the name Hebron instead.
New Hampshire Est. 1792
Pop. 459
Elev. 620
Our nearest Hebron neighbor, the New Hampshire town is also very small. Two or three roads intersect at the village green, just steps from Newfound Lake. The town grew throughout the early 1800s, with farming and associated manufacturing (grist mills, coopers, tanneries, creameries) being the primary industries. Many children’s summer camps sprang up in the early 20th century and tourism still thrives today.
New York Est. 1796
Pop. 1773
Elev. 794
Nestled between the Upper Taconic and Green mountains to the east and the Adirondacks to the west, this Hebron is the birthplace of the “Beauty of Hebron” potato, which was developed in the mid-1800s and among the varieties used to restock the British Isles after the Irish Potato Famine. The 1916 Burpee catalog describes it as follows: “Very rapid and vigorous grower, ripening as early as Early Rose, which it resembles but frequently exceeds in productiveness and excellence for table use, either baked or boiled.”
Connecticut Est. 1708
Pop. 8610
Hebron Andover Marlborough), home of the Sachems, is located within the town limits. The town is big enough to have national retailers such as Dunkin Donuts, but also hosts Ted’s IGA.
Pennsylvania Although there is a Hebron Township in Potter County, we were intrigued by the Google maps hit on a street in Lebanon. Further investigation revealed the Hebron Hose Company, a fire station on East Walnut Street.
Maryland Est. 1931
Connecticut’s Hebron is the largest in population of the Hebrons we discovered. It is a typical New England small town, with a central crossroads where most of the businesses are located. RHAM High School (Regional
Est. 1835
Pop. 2034
Elev. 889
This Hebron calls itself “Historic Crossroads of Ohio” because of its location on the “Old National Trail” and Ohio canal system. The town was a busy commerce center until a fire devasted the downtown at the turn of the 20th century. Now, in the 21st, the Crossroads moniker is again proving apt. Many manufacturing businesses have set up shop at industrial parks, drawn by easy access to Route 40 and Interstate 70. The town is also a recreation center, with boating and fishing on Buckeye Lake, originally a reservoir for the Ohio & Erie Canal.
Elev. 39
Located on the Delmarva Peninsula, Hebron, Maryland, began as a railroad shipping point west of Salisbury. As the surrounding farmers and lumbermen began using the rail to ship their products, the town grew in size and importance. In 1927, according to the state web site: “Hebron’s packing house shipped 420,000 cantaloupes in 40 refrigerated rail cars.” Industry waned throughout the late 20th century and today’s town is primarily residential.
Georgia There are two Hebrons in Georgia, but this one caught our eye. It is in Washington County, “The Kaolin Capital of the World.” Kaolin is a white, alumina silicate clay used in paper, medicine and paint, among other applications. The county currently has five processing companies and many mines. Some of the claypits can be seen on satellite imagery of the place in the road labeled “Hebron.”
Kentucky Unincorporated
Elev. 551
Pop. 807
Ohio
Elev. 879
If you have ever ordered something from amazon. com, it probably came through this Kentucky locale. Home to the Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky airport, Hebron is a major shipping hub for several large companies, including The Gap and Toyota’s North American parts center.
Michigan Est. n/a
Pop. 303
Elev. 738
Like the Maryland Hebron, this township is peninsular, located near the northern tip of the lower part of Michigan where Route 75 makes a large curving sweep westward before Mackinaw City and the bridge to the Upper Peninsula. There is a Hebron rest stop on southbound 75 and a lookout tower located on Fire Tower Road. Continued on page 24
Is there a Hebron near you? Take a roadtrip of your own and send us pictures! We’ll feature them in a future issue of the Semester. Send notes and photos to Semester editor Jenny Adams at: jadams@hebronacademy.org
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 21
British Columbia
Lake Winnipeg Alberta
Saskatchewan
Manitoba
Olympia
Washington Helena
Salem
Montana
North Dakota Bismarck
M
Oregon
Boise Pierre
Idaho
South Dakota
Wyoming
Nevada Sacramento
Carson City
Salt Lake City
Cheyenne
Nebraska Lincoln Denver
Utah
Topeka
Colorado Kansas
California
Oklahoma
Arizona Albuquerque
Oklahoma City
Phoenix
New Mexico
Pacific Ocean Texas
Houston
MEXICO
22 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
Ontario New Brunswick
P.E.I.
CANADA Quebec Lake Superior
Maine
Montpelier
Madison
Michigan
Albany
New York
Lansing
Lake Michigan
Hartford
L. Erie
Iowa
Annapolis Dover
Indiana Frankfort
Delaware
Washington DC West Virginia Richmond
Springfield
Jefferson City
New Jersey
Maryland
Columbus
Indianapolis
Rhode Island Connecticut
Trenton
Harrisburg
Ohio
Illinois
Massachusetts
Boston Providence
New York City
Pennsylvania
Des Moines
New Hampshire
Concord
L. Ontario
St. Paul
Wisconsin
Augusta
Vermont
Lake Huron
Minnesota
Nova Scotia
Atlantic Ocean
Charleston
Virginia
Missouri
Kentucky Raleigh
North Carolina
Nashville
Tennessee Arkansas Little Rock
Columbia
Mississippi
Jackson
Alabama
Atlanta
Montgomery
South Carolina
Georgia
Maine
State name
Augusta
State capital Roadtrip Hebron
Louisiana Baton Rouge
Other Hebron
Tallahassee
Roadtrip route Florida
Gulf of Mexico THE BAHAMAS
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 23
Hebron superlatives Elevation Highest: Colorado Lowest: Maryland and California Population Largest: Connecticut Smallest: Michigan
North Dakota Est. 1916
Illinois Est. 1885
Pop. 1038
Elev. 928
Back in 1952, this town’s high school, Alden-Hebron, won the Illinois state boys’ basketball championship, at 98 students the smallest school ever to do so. To commemorate the event, the town water tower was painted to resemble a basketball and remains that way today. The town is laid out in a grid, so common in the midwest and is home to small manufacturing companies and an array of hometown businesses.
Indiana Est. 1890
Pop. 3596
Elev. 709
Settlers from the east came to this piece of prairie in the 1830s which was known as “Corners” until a successful petition to change the name. The town grew rapidly when the Pittsburgh, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad (known as the Panhandle) came through town. Today the community is a quiet small town with plenty of local businesses and the new Hebron High School, which opened in 2005.
Texas Est. 1843
Pop. 874
the local secondary school (in Carrollton) is called Hebron High School.
Elev. 577
Squeezed between Plano and Carrollton, this small Hebron is getting smaller. Since the 1960s, the town has deannexed much of its property to neighboring cities, a trend that some residents are now trying to stop. Interestingly,
Pop. 803
to successful farming. In 1902 an earthquake destroyed vital aqueducts and irrigation systems and the settlers moved six miles east to Enterprise, which still exists today. A cemetery is all that remains of Hebron.
Elev. 2165
The Brick City began in the 1880s in what was then the Dakota Territory. It is home to the Hebron Brick Company, founded in 1904 and the oldest manufacturing operation in North Dakota. The railroad bisects the town, which is a grid of wide streets and hometown businesses.
California Unincorporated
Elev. 39
We finish our tour on the outskirts of Woodland. Although the town still appeared on maps in 1916, now it is simply an intersection near a Target distribution center.
Nebraska Est. 1872
Pop. 1565
Elev. 1470
The county seat of Thayer County, this Hebron is located on the Oregon Trail and is home to the world’s longest porch swing which seats 16. Lincoln Avenue, the main thoroughfare, is paved with brick for a portion of its length, as is 4th Street, which crosses Lincoln and runs to the courthouse. The airport and country club—with a nine hole golf course—are to the south of the town.
Colorado Unincorporated
Elev. 8143
Located in high ranch and mine country on a nowabandoned Union Pacific Railroad line, the town is about 15 miles east of the continental divide and Buffalo Gap.
For more
Utah Abandoned 1902
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Elev. 5476
The first white explorers of this area were driving livestock owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay Saints. They settled in the Shoal Creek area, but adequate water proved to be an obstacle
Many towns have their own web sites. For more information about some of these interesting places, please visit: New Hampshire www.hebronnh.org New York www.hebronny.com Connecticut www.hebronct.com Maryland www.mdmunicipal.org Ohio www.hebronvillage.com Illinois www.villageofhebron.org Indiana www.visithebron.org North Dakota www.hebronnd.org Nebraska www.hebronnebraska.us
Driving Miss Ruthie T by Jennifer F. Adams
Photos courtesy Ruth Scarpino
he first thing you need to know is that
Ruthie is going to hate this story. “I’m not
perfect. I was not the perfect student. I fought with
my teachers. I wasn’t on honor roll until my senior year when
I didn’t have to take a math class. I was tutored every week for three years by Miss Ferrenbach and Ms. Shore and Ms. Leyden so that I could graduate. I got a D every year in math and I had to work so hard for that D. People learn differently in different situations and to think that we only honor people who learn in a standardized manner, who test well in a standardized manner, really gets to me. I don’t want to be recognized. I don’t tell people I’m a Fulbright. They say, ‘Where have you been for a year?’ and I say, ‘Oh, I was doing research and teaching English in Malaysia.’ Most people don’t ask after that.”
The second thing you need to know is that Ruthie is outspoken, intense, funny, tenacious, smart, opinionated, challenging, articulate, resourceful, hard-working, dramatic and courageous. Once you’ve met her, you don’t easily forget her. Here’s a brief résumé. Ruth Scarpino graduated from Hebron Academy in 2004. Born and raised in Maine, she came to Hebron via Breakwater School and North Yarmouth Academy. While at Hebron she played field hockey, swam and ran track. She was a fouryear mainstay of Hebron drama and played in-your-face Rizzo in Grease her senior year, a part that somehow seemed written for her. The third thing: Ruthie is Jewish. She recently spent 10 months teaching English in Kijal, a small kampung (village) in Terengganu, the most religious state in the Muslim country of Malaysia. Last summer she asked Julie Middleton, her Hebron theater coach, to spread the word that she needed books to start an English language library at her school. Several of Ms. Middleton’s colleagues sent books and received a fat packet of thank you notes from Miss Ruthie’s students in return. Voluminous letters from Ruthie followed, and we began to wonder—as she herself put it—“How did a little Jewish spitfire from Portland end up in Malaysia?”
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Miss Ruthie’s 4sc1 class. “They were the top of their grade and gave the boys a real run for their money. In short these girls are brilliant.”
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oys and girls at school (in fact at all Malay academic institutions) have a mandatory uniform. Boys must wear a white collared button-up with short sleeves, green trousers, a belt and white sneakers. The girls’ uniform is not nearly as light and breezy. All teachers and female students wear a two-piece dress called baju kurung. A baju is best explained as a ten-pound potato sack with less ventilation that covers women from the neck down. It has two parts: the shirt and the skirt. The shirt begins at the neck, above the collarbone and extends to below the knee. The skirt sits just below your ribs and ends when it hits the floor. Under a baju girls are expected to wear sleeves on their arms and legs that are literally tubes of fabric that cover their skin. Bajus are not tight or form-fitting and are made to hide the body rather than reveal it. To top off the uniform, you have the head scarf which must cover your breasts and usually ends somewhere close to your belly button. The head scarf is not required by Malay law, but it is socially unacceptable for women in Terengganu to be bareheaded. This change happened over the length of my lifetime. I work with teachers who as girls used to wear shorts and have uncovered hair. In discussions I’ve been told that they “used to be
bad Muslims and were going to hell” but now they see the error of their ways.
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o-operative education Let’s back up a little bit. After Hebron, Ruthie went to Antioch College in Ohio. “I chose Antioch because it was focused on creating social change and also very focused on self education and the idea that if you want to learn, you will,” she said. “The joke is that you go to Antioch and they open an FBI file on you because it’s so incredibly liberal. My entire freshman class protested the Iraq war and half of us got arrested. There’s a jail underneath the Washington Monument. I bet you didn’t know that! Every four months we left on co-op. Antioch was the first co-op program, I think, in the United States. You study for three or four months and then you go off for three or four or five months. You’re always leaving and you’re always coming back.” Ruthie was based in Ireland for her first co-op experience, working for a non-profit organization in Galway that was unable to pay her. She ended up taking a door-to-door sales job to cover her bills. “It was completely commission, so if you had a bad day you lost
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money and if you had a good day you came home with 60 euro,” she said. “I had a lot more bad days than I did good days.” Undaunted, she went to England for her second co-op stint. This time she was placed in an activity center in Cornwall for people with mental and physical disabilities of all kinds. The center had a working farm; a zip line, rock wall and rapelling; an arts center; a wood shop and a garden. “I was there for five months and absolutely loved it,” Ruthie said. “It was one of those experiences where you work so hard that when you fall asleep at night you don’t remember your dreams, but it was so much fun that you just don’t care. The patrons were amazing and gave me an entirely new outlook on life. We were working with adults with Down Syndrome, adults with multiple sclerosis, accident victims. Their take on life is to just live to the best of their abilities, every day they possibly can.” In Germany on her third co-op, Ruthie and her best friend Gabriella Ruiz suddenly found themselves completely dependent on their own resources. They had done everything they were supposed to do. They were legally hired to work in a language agency in München, they had sponsorship, they registered with the police. When they got to München, the ex-patriate American who had hired them asked us what other work options they had. “We figured out that he wasn’t looking for two American girls to work for him, he was looking for two American girls who would be willing to do whatever he wanted to be taken care of, and that’s not who either one of us is.” With about 300 euro between them, and expenses of about 80 euro a day, they went to the train station. “We found a warm little corner and made friends with a guy who gave us free gummy bears and we staked out the bathroom. Through connections and friends Gabriella and I were put in touch with the Jewish community in Köln.” In Köln they were offered German lessons, two meals a day and a bus pass in exchange for helping out in a fourth grade classroom. It was Ruthie’s first teaching experience. “My German was dismal. In my first class there
was a nine-year-old boy who was speaking in German and I said, ‘Nein, sprechen English,’ and he banged his fists on the table and said, ‘Nein, sprechen Deutsch!’ I said, ‘OK, sprechen Deutsch!’ Needless to say, I learned German really fast, although it’s what we call ‘strasse Deutsch’—street German. Why? Because we learned it on the street.” Her final Antioch co-op was in Quito, Ecuador. The north of Quito is considered second world, but south of Quito is decidedly third world and dangerous. “South of Quito kids die of influenza, they die of diarrhea, grown women die in the street and no one can do anything about it. It is so incredibly poor,” Ruthie said. “We lived in the most dangerous barrio, Cincos Esquinos. We lived next to the drug lord and behind the chop shop. No one walked out after sundown; lots of people got shot. I worked for a mission called CENIT that was started by a group of revolutionary nuns. When Ecuador’s economy plummeted in the 1980s, there was a lot of child prostitution, a lot of child drug running, a lot of issues with AIDS and sex and drugs that were not being addressed by the Catholic government. These nuns decided to address it, and the Vatican excommunicated them. They ended up being privately funded and opened up their own school for free. If you want to enlist your sons in this school, you have to enlist every daughter you have. Now they have a gynecologist who comes in twice a week and doctors who come in three times a week. They have floating health programs in the markets, taking kids to the dentist or doctor for free, and they have educational programs, also in the markets, for kids who never get the chance to go to school because their families are so poor. As soon as you can walk and talk you’re selling corn, you’re selling chicken, you’re selling whatever. “When I first arrived I taught in the classroom, working with kids who were seven or eight and had never been in a school situation before and at that point it was the hardest thing I’d ever done. And then they put me in Mayorista market—the biggest market in the south—and on a slow day we had 50 kids. On big market days, Thursdays and Fridays, we had 100 kids, 110 kids.” Ruthie and her colleagues put together lesson plans that included singing, dancing,
games and fun, and then went through the markets collecting children. “So you’d walk up to people’s parents—you’re a gringa in the middle of this market—with two kids in either hand, and you’d say ‘Hi, my name’s Ruthie and I’m working for CENIT,’ and they’ve heard of it but they are really wary. You’re a strange girl and you’re with their kids. But maybe their cousin goes and their mother is so happy that she doesn’t have to take care of them that next week you get two more kids and the numbers start building. The next time you show up you have kids waiting for you. “So I did that and I loved it. I also did jewelry programs with the women. The center provided the beads. We also did tapestry making and painting. The mothers could come in and learn how to create these items, then they could sell them at the market to provide supplementary income, which is really cool. “Ecuador was the first situation where I found third world poverty—people living in their own fecal matter; so much poverty that it was inescapable. It controls every part of your life. You have ten kids because five of them will die. Kids die from parasites and dysentery. No one knows what an iodine pill is. No one has seen an iodine pill. You sit back and you take a big gulp and say, ‘All right, this is where I’m living.’ You do everything you can to make a difference in someone’s life.”
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he F-word Ruthie is an accidental Fulbright—she applied almost on a whim and nearly turned the grant down, feeling that the judges must have made a mistake. “Antioch always had a high number of Fulbright Scholars and no one ever really hinted that it was prestigious or that it was really a big deal,” she said. “It was always “We have more Fulbrights than the Ivy Leagues,” and I thought, “Yeah, that’s kind of cool, I get to go to another foreign country and do some cool stuff!” It never occurred to me that it was anything big. My friend Gabriella was applying and I thought: why would I turn down this chance to go to another country and do some community outreach and make a difference somewhere else? So I applied, and really had no idea what I had actually applied for. And then I got it and my mother said, ‘Congratulations. I didn’t think you had a snowball’s chance
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alaysia is made up of 13 states; nine of them have sultans and four of them have governors (put in power by the British). Malaysia became its own nation in 1957 but did not become economically wealthy until they discovered oil 15–30 years ago. By law, to be “Malaysian” is to be Muslim, however this law ignores the vast Indian and Chinese communities that have lived in Malaysia for centuries. Due to “affirmative action” laws, Chinese and Indian Malaysian citizens can be “overlooked” for jobs and acceptances into university. This practice is not only accepted, but is explained by the Chinese and Indian populations as a means of giving the Malay Malaysians a “fair chance to get a job or go to college.” (When I heard that I almost vomited—and had to sit, smile and swallow...yuck!). There are a handful of cities. Kuala Lumpur and Melaka (colonized by the Dutch) are two hot spots for western tourists on their way to the Islands. Very few tourists travel to the east coast of Malaysia, instead choosing to stay in the few cities where they can sport tank tops and shorts and shop at massive malls. My Malaysia—the Malaysia I know and live in—is the exact opposite. The biggest city in Terengganu is Kuala Terengganu and is about the size of the town of Norway [Maine] minus the supermarket and the fast food chains. What’s left? A bank, a few markets, a Chinatown that sprawls three whole blocks (with one store that “traffics” booze illegally) and a post office! Bright lights—big city...not.
This is what inland Malaysia looks like. It is very, very green, with a large number of rice fields. My kampung was a fishing village so it looked much different.
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alaysia is a tropical paradise. Monsoon season is from November to January, and the remainder of the year is hotter than hell. Truth: I’ve never been hotter in my entire life than I have the last eight months in this country. Kijal is 3–6 hours away from Kuala Terengganu. Without stopping the ride should take 2 1/2 hours on a bus, however due to constant breakdowns and multiple stops/ breaks for food, prayer and stuffing the already-full bus with random people who stand or sit on your lap it can take a while. Kijal is a very small kampung (village) a solid 30 minutes from anything. There is nothing to walk to and nowhere to go. The kampung is lived in by fishermen and factory workers. They live in traditional Malay houses built from wood and propped up on stilts (to keep the house from washing away when monsoon season hits hard). Houses and
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alaysian food consists of two staples: ikan (fish) and nasi (rice). Ayam (chicken) and daging (beef) are also common, while pork is haraam and against Islam. Malaysians traditionally eat six very big meals a day and from what I can tell have the metabolisms of Olympic runners. If I ate the amount of rice plus veggies and fish they eat six times a day I would weigh 500 pounds. They, on the other hand, are quite petite people and constantly tell me that I am fat and should diet, even though I’ve lost 30 pounds since my arrival. My massive weight loss can be explained in two ways: I’ve had worms three times and the Malay diet has no dairy and is very lean. Despite the lack of fat in their meals it is very clear that there is a deficit of proper nutrients. Most Malaysians die at around 60 and have extremely high diabetes “stats.” My students who appear to be around 10 or 11 are actually 14! You can imagine my shock when I learned their age!
This is Nasi Kerabu, my favorite Malay meal. It’s made with rice, fish and lots and lots of spicy chili! A special leaf is used to dye the rice blue, and it is only found in Malaysia. Yum!
property are passed down through family, and very few children in Kijal ever leave the kampung. Girls traditionally marry between 19 and 24; if you’re unmarried by 30 you are written off as a spinster and care for your parents until their deaths—usually never leaving your parents’ home. Thus women can spend their entire lives in the same town, in the same house, never experiencing anything new or different. Authority is the prized possession of all men. The father is the head of the house, and anything of any consequence depends/begins and ends with his word. Once the father dies his power is given to his sons and they become the “man of the house.” If an unmarried daughter wishes to travel, buy a car or open a bank account she may only do so with the permission of her father or brothers. If the woman is married she must ask her husband, as she is his property and belongs to him.
in hell.’ She didn’t mean it like ‘you’re an idiot,’ she meant it like ‘you have no idea what you are getting into, Ruthie!’ And then I ended up in Malaysia and I understood. Half the kids who were with us were Ivy League kids, they had been to Exeter or prestigious schools or came from families where their father was a Fulbright, his father was a Rhodes Scholar; families full of doctors and lawyers and heads of multi-national corporations. My dad is a mechanic and my mother ran a printing company and I’m from Maine. I went to a college that didn’t have grades.”
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he road to Terengganu Ruthie arrived in Malaysia for her orientation just days after the cease fire between Palestine and Israel ended. The mainstream media there—television, newspapers, and so forth—carried interviews with Malaysians asking them what they would do if they met a Jew. The answer, “Kill them.” She had certainly run into ignorance and anti-Semitism before—at NYA someone taped a swastika to her backpack—but now she was afraid for her life. “I had a choice to make: accept the fact that I was scared and stay, or go home. Naturally I stayed. No one knew I was Jewish and I had to keep it that way.” Ruthie found creative ways to keep her faith private. “In Malaysia, the first
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question they ask you is how old you are. The second question is: ‘Are you married?’ because a woman’s status is based entirely on whether she’s married or unmarried. And the next question is: ‘And you are Christian?’ And I always said, ‘No, I’m not Christian.’ ‘Well, we know you’re not Muslim, you’re not Buddhist, you’re not Hindu,’ and there’s a pause, and they ask, ‘What are you?’ You just respond ‘I’m a free thinker.’ And they say “Oh, but you believe in God?’ and you say, ‘Yeah, OK, sure, sure.’ And that’s OK because as long as you believe in a god, you’re functional. “Censorship was a huge thing. I’d talk on the phone and I couldn’t say ‘Jewish,’ I’d say ‘Jword.’ I couldn’t speak any Yiddish. But I don’t have to declare what I am to be who I am. In America everyone declares it: ‘I’m short, I’m tall, I’m fat, I’m thin, I’m Christian, I’m Jewish, I’m straight, I’m gay.’ It’s part of our culture; uniqueness is something we covet. In Malaysia, uniqueness is not at all desirable. Sameness is the ideal. Everyone wants to be like everyone else. No one wants to stand out in a crowd. No one wants to raise their hand. And in some situations it’s actually paralyzing.”
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ommunity in the kampung Ruthie was the first foreigner in Kijal and she had a very hard time breaking into the community. “I was in every way, shape and form an alien,” she recalled. “Malaysia is not a country, culturally, that discusses issues. You’re in a society where everything is censored, you don’t question authority, where children don’t have their own opinions because they simply agree with whatever the person older than them said, whether or not they think it’s right. Living in a country where no one has a formed opinion that is in fact their own was infuriating. “I’m a very verbal person. I search for intellectual conversation. I search for challenge, I search for interaction, and I was in a society where women were not supposed to be educated or have opinions. I was an anomaly, and because of that I was terrifying. People were scared of me. Men were horrified that I was there. Women were horrified that I was educating their children. They were scared that I was going to damage them, that I was going to spread my immoral, immodest, American ideas in their safe little bubble. There was never
Once a month (but usually more often due to living in the middle of nowhere) I organized programs for the hostel students who lived at school. I did tie dye, nobake cookies, movie nights... you name it. One month exams were so stressful that I decided to have a water balloon fight! Naurally, the boys and girls had to have separate fights and I counted on having 30 or 40 kids and ended up with nearly 100... (there were more girls than boys). Here are the boys—before they got their balloon fight on!
ever a conversation between anyone that said ‘Hi, we are scared that...’ or ‘Hi, we are concerned that...’ or ‘Hi, we have issues with...’ because no one confronts anyone. In order to have a confrontation you have to have an opinion, which no one will admit they have.” She persevered, however, and was accepted first by the students in the hostel where she lived. “For the first few months they were in my apartment 24/7, making crafts, listening to music and playing games. I taught additional hostel classes until May when ‘more important subjects’ (like math—boo!) took my time slot. The kids weren’t impressed either. They went from having scavenger hunts, ‘English directions’ Twister and whatever else I pulled out of my sleeves, to an extra two-hour period of sitting at a desk and doing calculations. “Like at Hebron, the girls and boys have separate dorms, however unlike Hebron they are divided by gender for everything. Male and female students sit on separate sides of the canteen, and they have separate washing stations, entrances and food lines. Boys lead prayer and go to mosque at the appropriate times. Girls, although allowed in the mosque but separated from the men, pray in their rooms in the dorm. Although both boys and girls are allowed to play sports (because SMK Kijal is not a religious school), boys are provided with a coach, uniforms and ample and organized practices, while the girls must ask teachers to observe practice while they coach each other in the muddy part of the field that is unused by the boys. I’m sure you can imagine my horror and disgust. “Whenever I had the chance I coached the girls’ field hockey team, much to the disdain of the male coaches who told me ‘girls can’t play hockey.’ Just to piss them off I coached the girls as I was coached at Hebron. I made them practice stick and ball skills and forced them to run, since
they usually slowly walked to the ball. When the state competition rolled around and the girls invited me to attend the male coaches were not pleased, and the fact that the girls won four games in a row to win states almost blew them off their feet. While the girls were hugging, screaming and going crazy, I was given a ‘nod’ by the boys’ coaches and ignored for the remainder of the day. Truly one of my favorite moments since arriving.” Ruthie grew close to her mentor, Saliza Othman, and was essentially adopted into her family of ten brothers and sisters. They invited her to their home to celebrate Hari Raya, the end of Ramadan. When Ruthie left at the end of her grant, Saliza’s family pooled their money together and presented her with a Malay songket. Songket is a traditional Malay textile—often made
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ecause all American woman are blonde-haired and blue-eyed, most Malaysians respond differently when they find out I am from the USA. One day over nasi ayam (chicken rice), another ETA’s mentor insisted that I must be of Arabic descent, because of my brown hair and brown eyes. Despite my explanation that I have Italian heritage she asked, “Was your father Arab?” “No.” “Was your grandmother Arab?” “No.” Exasperated, she said, “Well it must be that your great-grandmother was Arab and everyone forgot it.” I figured that it was probably not the best time to out myself as an Italian Jew, thus explaining my dark hair and olive-ish skin tone. This weekend once again I was asked if I had Arab lineage, and was informed that Arab women were the holiest and most beautiful women in the world and that as a member of this category it’s my duty to marry and have 13 babies. And once again I thought to myself, “If only you knew I’m a Jew! Ha!”
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Houses on a river during monsoon season. In the winter all the storms cause runoff which turns the water brown. In the spring and summer it’s usually very blue or green.
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oming from Maine I used to think that I was prepared for all kinds of weather. I can drive a stick shift in snow and ice; I’ve lived through ice storms; blackouts that last a week and I’m used to random changes in cold fronts, hot fronts, you name it. When my students talked about monsoon season I would listen while privately thinking, “You want bad weather? Try a blizzard in February.” I was so wrong! Last week I experienced my first monsoon rain. The sky was literally black and when the heavy clouds of doom finally opened, getting rained on felt like I was being clubbed like a baby seal. These weren’t cute little raindrops—these things could knock out a bear. In an hour my school’s bottom floor was flooded. The roads washed away and most day students stayed home because there was no road to walk to school on. All of this happened in less than 60 minutes. I can’t imagine what it’s like in November and December when it rains like that for eight hours every single day. I now understand why houses that would be used for timber at home are propped up on brand new stilts every year, and why school is closed for the first two official months of rainy season. Even if they had school, no one could get there!
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lasses in Malaysia are very limited. Due to lack of funds, my students
have no art or music classes and only the advanced students get the opportunity to work in the science labs or audio-visual room. Half (or more) of Kijal’s student body cannot read or write in their own language, let alone English, and it’s
with gold—worn for weddings and traditional ceremonies. “It took the wind right out of me,” Ruthie said. “It changes your whole value system. It’s funny, because that’s how I was raised. You take care of your own. It’s a military thing, it’s a Jewish community thing. You can contact any Jewish community in the world and they will help you out any way they can. I grew up in those kinds of communities, but I’ve never lived in another society that functioned in that manner. “Islam wants to claim that it’s independent of Judaism and Judaism wants to claim that it’s completely different from Islam, but they are so similar. They have the same ‘take care of your own’ philosophy. If someone is part of your family you bend over backwards for them, it doesn’t matter if they’re a complete stranger, you open your doors, you open your homes, you open your hearts. That’s amazing. It’s absolutely amazing.”
accepted or ignored by teachers and administrators alike. There are no grades in the Malay school system. All students take a series of standardized tests throughout the year and the results from said exams substitute as grades. Students who test poorly, or have issues reading and writing, fail by default and never have a fighting chance. Many kids who would have test modifications due to learning differences and dyslexia in America are ignored and never get the help they need to succeed. As part of my grant here I am doing a case study on dyslexia and learning differences and have been allowed by the government and my school to use modified testing for one student, who is dyslexic by American definitions. If my work with her is successful I eplaceable Ruthie One thing will submit my case study to the government Ruthie has learned with all her coming and petition to expand the definition of and going is understanding when it’s time learning differences, and supply modificato leave, although sometimes it’s difficult. tions to a larger population of students. “I want to be replaceable,” she said. “If I can Currently to be L.D. in Malaysia equates teach you a skill, I should be replaced by to having Down Syndrome. If I can actuthat skill. If I teach you to read, you don’t ally motivate the government to look into need me when you can read yourself. modifying their legal definition of dyslexia I “That was the thing with Malaysia. I can die happy. Horace Mann, the founder of walked into a school that had never had Antioch College, once stated, “Be ashamed an adequate English program, where most to die until you have won some victory of my students were illiterate in their own for humanity,” and I think this qualifies. language. The school system is so standardSince arriving at my school I’ve started ized that it doesn’t matter if you fail all your an English pen pal program, a slew of fun tests, they still move you forward because hostel activities, tutoring sessions, a milthere’s nothing to do with you. There’s no lion English competitions and the Literacy tutoring, no extra help, no checking in with Project. It’s amazing to see the growth teachers; it doesn’t exist. I started a literacy and improvement in my students. Eight program, getting books and tutoring. I was months ago they couldn’t tell me how they up until 11:00 every night in my room or in felt let alone answer a verbal question in English. Now their mouths run faster than mine, they are able to y first five weeks in Malaysia were split between Kuala hold a conversation and have gained Lumpur and Kuala Terengganu. In both locations I confidence ten-fold. I feel that very little searched for bajus and appropriate clothing for my school. of their improvement has to do with After learning that the cheapest way to get new clothing was me; it’s their hard work and dedicato make it, I bought fabric and went with three friends to see tion that has brought them this far a seamstress. All of us ordered three or more outfits and got and I am proud of them and all their fit and measured for our new clothes. When we went to pick efforts. Anyone can talk, but it takes up our orders the seamstress asked why we all were getting a certain level of focus and a desire bajus made. Thinking nothing we told her we were new to learn to improve—and they have. teachers and needed bajus for school. Without batting an eye she asked, “You’re not converting?” She thought we were
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new converting Muslims!
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the cafeteria working with students, doing the basic literacy work that in America you’re doing in the first and second grade. At the end, my students wrote me thank you notes. Ten months ago they couldn’t have. That’s what I wanted. I wanted to teach them a skill so they did not need me any more, and that happened, so I feel like I’ve done my job and I can leave and I’m proud of the work I did. But to put yourself in situations where you are not permanent is awkward. You need to be prepared to just pick up and go at any point where you are no longer needed, and you have to know when that is. And it’s hard, leaving people. You’ve made connections, relationships, you find family, and saying, ‘You don’t need me any more, I’m going now,’ hurts. And you do it to yourself!”
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he road beyond Ruthie came back to Maine in November. In January, she and her family spent a month on a kibbutz in Israel and then she moved to New York where she will explore
long-held interests in art and theater, and possibly make a difference along the way. “I’m going to pursue art and theater and social activism. I’m interested in how art and theater can be used to create social change. I want to get involved in art collectives and community work and art programs for underprivileged youth. If I don’t do this right now I’m going to regret it for the rest of my life. “I’m going to be poor, I’m going to be broke, I’m going to be asking my mother to mail me food, but I’m going to be happy. I’m happy with the choices I’ve made, I’m happy with the roads I’ve taken. I don’t have $40 in my pocket right now. I don’t have a bed and I’m living in a sleeping bag, but
This is my mentor Saliza Othman. She is not only one of the few English teachers I met who could speak English, but she also actually loved to teach. She has become one of my closest friends and is a true kindred spirit.
I don’t need 12 pairs of shoes to make me happy. I don’t need a Versace bag. What I need is to know that I’m proud of myself, to be pursuing things that will make me feel fulfilled. Making a difference makes me happy. And education makes me happy. Art and theater make me happy. So that’s what I’m going to do.”
Miss Ruthie’s Class 1 Indah. “The students in this class threw me a going away party and made me cry! These are the girls who decided they were not going to miss class just because the boys locked us out and went to gym. They removed the glass from the windows and the girls and I, bajus and all, climbed through the classroom window! The boys came back and didn’t know what to think when they found us inside!”
alumni et alumnae That was you, Dad? Jacob Freed and his father, Josh, look at the 1984 yearbook during Homecoming.
32 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
alumni et alumnae
Class Notes 1933 Our thoughts are with Bill MacVane on the death of his wife Peggy in October.
1938 Lester Forbes reports, “Marge and I just had our 67th wedding anniversary. Celebrated by moving into assisted living quarters at Highland Farms retirement community. Just passed 90 and still riding a 24” bike.”
1939 Paul Kerr writes, “Always happy to receive the Hebron booklet on all the student activities and the campus changes. It sure has changed since ‘39.”
1941 Class Agent: John MacDonald judymacd@aol.com
1942
a school teacher all week. My wife passed away in 1988 from ovarian cancer. No more trips to Florida in winter. Too old to play golf any more.”
1943 Class Agent: Gene Smith zachplum@aol.com John Lawry says that he keeps busy playing tennis once a week indoors. He plays on the warm days but can’t break 100!
1947 Class Agent: Ernest Rodrigues maryannrodrigues@yahoo.com
1948 Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org Amory Houghton writes, “Can’t get a flu shot of either kind so this may be my last message.”
the NC Forestry Board. n Ben Jeffries’ interest in the sea and sailing still serves him well as he lives in Stonington, the Downeast heart of both. Ben’s son, Steve ‘79, is vice chair of the Hebron Board of Trustees. n Bob McTaggart retired from the Monsanto Company years ago, then running a successful import business. He and wife, Pat, live in Longmeadow, MA, during the cold-weather months and in the Belgrade Lakes area of Maine from June to October. They recently returned from trips to Spain and Argentina. n James Sawyer has retired from a career in university-level media education and lives in North Cumberland, ME. n Phil Smith was recently named as a trustee emeritus of Hebron and lives in Southport, ME.
1950 sixtieth reunion
Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org Ralph Wells writes, “All you 1950 grads: 2010 makes 60. Anyone game for a reunion? Let’s get some dialogue going on this. Who in Maine or NH wants to head this up? I’m in Kansas City, a bit far from the action. Contact me at 7115 Stewart Road #43, Liberty MO 64068.”
1951 Class Agent: Ted Ruegg rueggnh@midcoast.com Saul Cohen writes, “Bought my company, Hammond Residential Real Estate, back from GMAC in March 2009. I had sold it to GMAC in March 2000. My activities in support of the performing arts continue.”
1952 Class Agent: Ken Boyle revken60@aol.com Capt. Birchard Fossett writes, “I’m now living in a retirement home in Columbia, MD. Retired from the US Navy after 32 years of active duty as a captain. I then was employed in the civil service for an additional 6 years. I remember my Hebron years 1948–1952 with gratitude.” n Richard Robbins reports, “Mr. Allen and many of my teachers at Hebron would be shocked to learn that my ‘retirement job’ (second one) is teaching. My wife, Beverley, and I both taught high school English for a couple of years. Now we work 4 days a week as substitutes. It helps to keep us ‘young’.”
Class Agent: Norm Cole ncolseba@aol.com
1949
Phil Isaacson reports, “I continue to practice law, write on and for the visual arts, downhill ski and remain active in historic preservation matters on both state and local levels.” n Donald Lukens writes, “Recently returned to Harvard ‘B’ school 60th class reunion. After Hebron went to Bowdoin and Bates. Hebron great for learning how to study! I can still remember the mornings I walked from Cook Gym to wait on tables. I remember the excellent sports programs wherein I played football and baseball under “Deacon” Danny MacFayden (later at Bowdoin, also played for the Braves and Yankees). Have memories of Miss Stevens, dietecian and good friend of the waiters. Fellow waiters Don Merloni, Al Bass, Marco Rotelli, Snookie Lawson, Mario Dido, went to Columpia OCS (midshipman), later PT boat 12 and 39. Squadron leader in Philippines was Lenny Thom, Squad Cmdr Squadron 39, who was with Kennedy on PT-109. I’m 86 years old and supposedly have Parkinsons Disease.” n Wendell Wilson reports, “Getting old and sickly. Turned 86 at end of August. My daughter helps me out quite a bit on the weekends. She works as
Reunions & Homecoming 2010
Class Agent: Bob Rich rprich@erlanger-inc.com
Friday, October 8 • Saturday, October 9
Art Cooper, retired long-time head of the N.C. State University Department of Forestry, is currently an active member of
Reunions for Fives & Aughts • Kids’ Activities • Road Race • Rainbow Reunion • Class Dinners • Much more!
Class of 1949: Phil Smith, Jim Sawyer, Bob Rich and Bob McTaggart.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 33
alumni et alumnae 1953
1956
Class Agent: Dean Ridlon deridlon@msn.com
Class Agent: Kenneth Mortimer 360-527-3584 kmortimer5@gmail.com
1954
John Sherden is still hiking and reports that he did 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail in May. “Vacationed at Little Cranberry Island, ME. Healthy, happy with wife and cats, dogs and horses.”
Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org Demas (Dick) Jasper reports, “At 101 years young, mother Viola Jasper (wife of Rufus ’25) is well and busy in Eliot, ME. Manolie and I are well and busy in Lindon, UT, running our health store (discounts for any Hebron alumni) and also working for BlendTec—you’ve seen our blenders at ww.willitblend.com. Fifteen grandchildren visit, too.” n Donald Knox works in property management, overseeing several properties that he has aquired over the years. He spends spring and fall in Florida and winters in Massachusetts so he can ski. n Llewellyn Ross writes, “Continue to work full time at Merrill Lynch, managing money for high net worth clients. Am willing to provide guidance to classmates in these turbulent times.”
1955 fifty-fifth reunion
Class Agent: Richard Parker rparker@promedicacrc.com Sam Dibbins reports, “I am still working full time as a teaching pro in tennis. Wife Cindy works as trainer/teacher/competitor in 3-day equestrian event work. We love Portland (OR) and are overwhelmed by the growth of Hebron!”
1957
Reunions & Homecoming 2010 Friday, October 8 • Saturday, October 9 Reunions for Fives & Aughts • Kids’ Activities • Road Race • Rainbow Reunion • Class Dinners • Much more!
1960 fiftieth reunion
Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org
Class Agent: Dave Williams david.j2.williams@ columbiamanagement.com
Patrick Tracey writes, “Have 3 children and 4 grandchildren. Retired in 2000 and have lived in Naples since 1974. Go to Chile about every 2 years.”
1961
1958 Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org Corey Hammond writes, “Enjoying summers in Nova Scotia and winters in Maine. I belong to cycling clubs in both locations!”
1959 Class Agent: Bernard Helm hebron59@aol.com Jim Harberson writes, “I enjoyed returning for my 50th reunion and seeing my former classmates. I deeply appreciate being entered into Hebron’s Athletic Hall of Fame and meeting many of the current students and staff who made our reunion so memorable.”
Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org Zandy Gray is retired and travels to Maine and Arizona. He recently attended the 40th anniversary of his Peace Corps group. He reports that daughter Claudia ‘92 and her husband Paul Rudd live in Washington DC where both work in international development.
1962 Class Agent: Dick Forté rsforte@mac.com
1963 Class Agent: Will Harding 2ww@bellsouth.net Will Harding reports, “Still the road race referee for AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association). And we are building a vintage BMW for the heavyweight superbike class. This year the series will extend from Daytona to California and Oregon, from Wisconsin to Alabama.”
1964 Class Agent: John Giger john@cybergiger.com Congratulations to Tom Hull, who was recently approved for a Presidential Meritorious Service Award by President Obama for his service as ambassador to Sierra Leone (2004-2007). Tom received the same award from President Clinton for his 1989-2003 contributions toward transforming communist Czechoslovakia in the democratic Czech Republic. Tom also joined Hebron’s Board of Trustees in October.
1965 forty-fifth reunion
Class Agent: Allen Kennedy akennedy@dalton.org James Morrill writes, “We had a new grandson born this year—Wendell Solomon Sweet.”
1966 Class Agent: Harvey Lowd hlowd@ksallc.com Our condolences go to Bill Golden on the loss of his father in July.
Class of ’62 friends Dick Forté, Fred Friedman, Mike Jones and Shell Evans gathered in Fairhaven, MA. That evening there was a spirited discussion of the relative merits of Green Key vs. the butt room.
34 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
alumni et alumnae Reunion/Homecoming 2009
Damp day does not dampen spirits
Clockwise from above: Head of School John King congratulated Volunteer of the Year Bernard Helm ’59; Lee and Bill Bearse ’59 at Allen House for the 50th Reunion luncheon; Fred Perry ’59 and Sarah Smith sported the weekend’s most beautiful umbrellas; Len Mintz ’53 played for Tina when the student pianist took a break; Bruce ’59 and Barbara Edge chatted with hockey coach Matt Plante at the Friday evening welcome gathering.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 35
alumni et alumnae Class of 1974: Rick Parker, Roger Clark, Mike Feldman, Mark Jorgenson and Scott Fraser.
been 26 years. She looks great and hasn’t aged one bit. Bill Kaneb ’75 and his lady friend may be coming our way to visit and ski in Banff. Marjorie Bobbitt comes by for dinner periodically. Still in touch with Baikie, Hillier and Ledger.”
1977 Class Agent: Bob Hernon rhernon@gmail.com Congratulations to Bryce Fequet who was recently elected mayor of his town. n Our sympathies go to Dana Hodges on the death of his mother in November. n Adam Lee was recently named to the Efficiency Maine Trust board. n Our sympathies go to Scott Miller on the death of his father in November.
1967 Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org
1968 Class Agent: Robert Lowenthal rlowenth@rochester.rr.com Our thoughts are with Don Gordon on the loss of his mother in November. n James Locke writes, “I support conservative values and principles and Hebron Academy!” n Robert Waite reports, “I retired from Canada Post on December 31, 2009, and will be launching my own firm, Waite & Company, in 2010, specializing in CEO communications as well as corporate social responsibility strategies and practices.
1969 Our thoughts are with Mark Lebel on the loss of his father in September.
1970
now be known as the Cyrus Hagge YMCA Peaks to Portland Swim in honor of Cy’s longtime service to the Y. n Jim Nelson writes, “The new Allen field, the remodeled Sergeant (art center) and the gorgeous Athletic Center are a delight! My son Winston ‘08 finished his first year at Marist and is doing well. My oldest son Arthur works for the Corporate Executive Board in Washington, DC. I run a consulting practice specializing in wireless technology and electronic medical record software in health care. We are currently working on setting up what’s called a Health Information Exchange (HIE) for a 7 hospital group and their attending physicians in New Jersey. If we do it right, the HIE will save money and improve the quality of care for many. My wife Ana is regional director of the Alzheimer’s Association in CT. Reflecting back, I see how Hebron gave me the structure and critical skills the I have used throughout my life. I am always glad to hear from old classmates.”
1972 Class Agent: Steve Gates stephenrgates@msn.com Our condolences go to Peter Suyama on the loss of his father in June.
fortieth reunion
1973
Class Agent: Craig Clark jcclark@radiusnorth.net
Class Agent: Gregory Burns gregmburns@aol.com
1971 Class Agent: Harvey Lipman harveylipman@hotmail.com Our sympathies go to Doug Gordon on the loss of his mother in November. n The annual Cumberland County YMCA swim from Peaks Island to East End Beach will
Our thoughts are with Jon Suyama on the loss of his father in June. n Rob Thompson recently completed 10 years with Delta Air Lines and is currently flying international routes, mostly to Europe. His oldest son is a third generation Navy pilotin-training and his youngest son is working on a business degree at UCF. Rob and his wife, Becky, still live in Melbourne, FL.
36 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
1974 Class Agent: Scott Fraser oil2vstar@yahoo.com Our thoughts are with Mark Jorgenson on the loss of his mother in September and to William Hornberger on the death of his mother, also in September.
1975 thirty-fifth reunion
1978 Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org George Dycio was featured in MaineBiz recently, as part of a feature on Lewiston/Auburn’s Foreign Trade Zone activation. n Our thoughts are with Forbes MacVane on the loss of his mother in October.
Class Agent: Ellen Augusta eaugusta@msn.com
1979
Our sympathies go to David Allen on the death of his father in June and to Jonathan James on the loss of his father in August.
Class Agent: Brian Cloherty mnclohertys@earthlink.net
1976 Class Agent: Reed Chapman creedclark@yahoo.com Gary Appelbaum writes, “My younger daughter started at Ithaca College in the fall and my older daughter Haley returned to Indiana University to continue pursuing her degree. Work at Johnson & Johnson Consumer remains terrific. Hello to all from the soon-to-be emptynesters.” n Mel Nadeau reports, “Heard from Stacey Berney Miles recently. It has
Our thoughts are with Brian Cloherty on the sudden death of his wife in August.
1980 thirtieth reunion
Class Agent: Betsy Siekman Graves betsy_graves@hotmail.com
Reunions & Homecoming 2010 Friday, October 8 • Saturday, October 9 Reunions for Fives & Aughts • Kids’ Activities • Road Race • Rainbow Reunion • Class Dinners • Much more!
alumni et alumnae
Volunteers for Hebron Listed below are some of the volunteers who help with governance, fundraising and outreach. The time and talent of these dedicated alumni, parents and friends are key to Hebron’s success. Thank you! Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees bears fiduciary responsibility for Hebron. Board committees oversee all aspects of the school. J. Reeve Bright, Esq. ‘66, chair Mr. Stephen B. Jeffries ‘79, vice chair Mr. Paul S. Goodof ‘67, treasurer Mrs. Debra B. Bloomingdale ‘83, secretary Mrs. Susan Geismar Mrs. Susan A. Gendron Mr. William B. Golden ‘66 Edward A. Gottlieb, Esq. ‘64 Mr. Wallace E. Higgins Mr. James B. Hill, II ‘90 Ambassador Thomas N. Hull, III ‘64 Mr. Kimball L. Kenway Esq. ‘70 Dr. Scott R. Nelson ‘91 Mr. Robert P. Rich, Jr. ‘49 Dr. Michael E. Silverman ‘85 Mr. Judah C. Sommer Ms. Meredith N. Strang Burgess Mr. Scott E. Wilson ‘71
Advisory Council Advisory Council members meet on campus twice each year to offer advice and expertise on aspects of school life. They also host events and spearhead other outreach efforts. Ms. Devon M. Biondi ‘96 Mrs. Ruthann Brooks Boyd ‘81 Mr. Michael E. Britt, Jr. ‘81 Mr. Craig Clark ‘70 Miss Katherine E. Curtis ‘02 Mr. John E. Donahue, Sr. ‘84 Mr. T. Scott Downs ‘86
Mr. Daryel Dulhaime Dr. Norman O. Farrar ‘58 Mr. Robert H. Gardner Mr. Henry A. Harding ‘70 Ms. Jane Harris Ash ‘79 Mr. Bernard L. Helm ‘59 Mr. Robert M. Hernon ‘77 Dr. Peter F. Jeffries ‘52 Mr. Matthew W. Johnson ‘93 Mr. Stephen W. Lane ‘62 Mr. James C. Rea, III ‘62 Mr. Richard J. Rigazio ‘71 Mr. Alexander B. Warrick, III ‘04
Class Agents The primary communicators to alumni, Class Agents write letters or emails to classmates at least twice a year. Mr. John A. MacDonald, Jr. ‘41 Mr. Norman A. Cole ‘42 Mr. Eugene J. Smith ‘43 Mr. Ernest W. Rodrigues ‘47 Mr. Robert P. Rich, Jr. ‘49 Mr. Edward L. Ruegg ‘51 Rev. Kenneth A. Boyle ‘52 Mr. Dean E. Ridlon ‘53 Mr. Richard J. Parker ‘55 Dr. Kenneth P. Mortimer ‘56 Mr. Bernard L. Helm ‘59 Mr. David J. Williams ‘60 Mr. Richard S. Forte ‘62 Mr. William C. Harding, Jr. ‘63 Mr. John R. Giger ‘64 Mr. Allen C. Kennedy ‘65 Mr. Harvey L. Lowd ‘66 Mr. Robert L. Lowenthal, Jr. ‘68 Mr. Jonathan G. Moll ‘69 Mr. Craig Clark ‘70
Board chair Reeve Bright ’66 thanks volunteers for their work at a special luncheon. Mr. Harvey A. Lipman ‘71 Mr. Stephen R. Gates ‘72 Mr. Gregory M. Burns ‘73 Mr. Scott Fraser ’74 Miss Ellen L. Augusta ‘75 Mr. C. Reed Chapman ‘76 Mr. Robert M. Hernon ‘77 Mr. Brian O. Cloherty ‘79 Elizabeth Siekman Graves ‘80 Mrs. Jane E. Fiore ‘81 Mr. Tucker Cutler ‘82 Mrs. Debra B. Bloomingdale ‘83 Mrs. Deborah S. Cote ‘84 Mr. Eric T. Shediac ‘85 Mr. T. Scott Downs ‘86 Mrs. Catherine T. Crowley ‘87 Mrs. Ann S. Mooradian ‘88 Mr. M. Hayes McCarthy ‘89 Mr. Andrew M. Haskell ‘90 Mr. Marcus A. De Costa ‘91 Dr. Scott R. Nelson ‘91 Dr. Marko I. Radosavljevic ‘93 Ms. Erica J. Litchfield ‘94
Ms. Jessie D. Maher ‘95 Ms. Devon M. Biondi ‘96 Miss Kirsten L. Ness ‘98 Mr. Joseph J. Patry ‘99 Miss Corinna Hartman-Frey ‘00 Miss Katherine E. Curtis ‘02 Miss Sara D. Marquis ‘03 Mr. John W. Slattery ‘04 Miss Bettina T. Voigt ‘05 Miss Allison M. Coombs ‘06 Mr. Noah S. T. Love ‘07 Miss Andrea J. Hart ‘08 Mr. Jason B. Goodman ‘08 Miss Jennifer A. Duguay ‘08 Miss Claire E. Cummings ‘09 Miss Ye Chen ‘09
Parents Fund Committee These parents of current students help the Advancement Office with fundraising and outreach. Theresa and David Banash, co-chairs Debbie and Andy Bloomingdale Sandy and Chip Evans Susan and John Geismar Kristin and Marc Kannegieser Susan and Randall Smith Stacey and Lonnie Taylor
The Hebron Academy Advisory Council meets during Homecoming every fall. From left: Bob Gardner, Jane Harris Ash ’79, Carl Engel ’86, Daryel Dulhaime, Scott Downs ’86, Megan Brooks ’88, Rick Rigazio ’71, Peter Jeffries ’52, Ruthann Brooks Boyd ’81, John Donahue ’84 (chair), Craig Clark ’70, Bernard Helm ’59, Steve Lane ’62, Katie Curtis ’02, Martin Küchler ’79 and staff member Beth Garza.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 37
alumni et alumnae Reunion/Homecoming 2009
Rain, rain, go away
Clockwise from above: Klaus Grieb ’84 traveled from Germany for his 25th reunion; Kathryn Gardner ’85, Michael Newsom and Olivia; Reed Claiborne ’89; 1989 classmates Jennifer Eldridge Bourget and Max Ramsey chat with Hayes McCarthy’s wife Rebecca; Ryan Boisvert’s little boy entertained her 1999 classmates at the football game; Green Key members gave campus tours, rain and all.
38 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
alumni et alumnae 1981 Class Agent: Jane Hepburn Fiore fancyjane@comcast.net Our thoughts are with Nancy Galos Safford on the loss of her mother in November. n Eileen Gillespie says hi to Jane Fiore!
1982 Class Agent: Tucker Cutler tandgcutler@myfairpoint.net Our sympathies go to James Hornberger and Anne Hornberger Cannon on the death of their mother in September.
Reunions & Homecoming 2010 Friday, October 8 • Saturday, October 9 Reunions for Fives & Aughts • Kids’ Activities • Road Race • Rainbow Reunion • Class Dinners • Much more!
1987
1991
Class Agent: Kate Thoman Crowley thocro@comast.net
Class Agents: Marcus De Costa marcus.decosta@trinityschoolnyc.org
1988
1983
Class Agent: Ann Snyder Mooradian mooradia@comcast.net
Class Agent: Debbie Beacham Bloomingdale dbbloomingdale@yahoo.com
1989
1984 Class Agent: Deb Schiavi Cote debscote@yahoo.com Our thoughts are with Mark Galos on the loss of his mother in November.
Class Agent: Hayes McCarthy hayes@mccarthyvideo.com Our condolences go to Duke Lovetere on the death of his mother in August.
1990 twentieth reunion
1985 twenty-fifth reunion
Class Agent: Eric Shediac shediachouse@comcast.net
1986 Class Agent: Scott Down ssuffolkd@aol.com
Milestones
Class Agent: Andy Haskell If you’re passing through Union, Maine, be sure to stop at the Badger Café and Pub, owned and operated by Christy and Michael Badger-Greer. Michael was featured in “Cooking Tips From Five Frugal Maine Chefs” in the November issue of Down East.
Scott Nelson scott.ryan.nelson@mac.com
1992 Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org
1993 Class Agent: Marko Radosavljevic mradosav@alumni.bates.edu
1994 Class Agent: Erica Litchfield ericalitchfield@yahoo.com
1995 fifteenth reunion
Class Agent: Jessie Maher jm4lfclvr@yahoo.com Jessie Maher writes, “I’m working at Unisys on a project for the FBI. I’m working closely with the software developers who are redesigning CODIS (Combined DNA Indexing System)--yup, that’s the same thing you hear on CSI! I have started volunteering for a dog rescue organization on my weekends too, and in case that wasn’t enough, we have recently added to our brood by adopting two local rescues ourselves. Otto is a St. Bernard mix and Patton is a Mastiff mix; both very much puppies! Going to be big, but big and lazy hopefully! These guys were such a change to the size of our family I actually had to trade in my car for a JEEP!” n Sean Morey is one of three current NFL players who will donate their brains after death to a medical sports program that studies brain injuries. n Doug Sanborn is program and membership director of the Maine Interna-
A group of the class of 1986 fishing in the Kennebec River: Tony Cox, Rich Pschirrer, Peter Fallon, Rob Kinasewich and Alex Woodruff. Photo by Kelly Pschirrer.
Unions 1956
Judy Thomson and Chris Righter, on October 17, 2009.
1995
Lyndsay Santeusanio and Doug Sanborn, in August 2004.
1996
Tara Langelier and Ilir Ujkaj, on March 28, 2009, in Boston, Massachusetts.
1997
Catherine Marshall and Alec Muller, on September 5, 2009, in Concord, New Hampshire.
2000 and 2001
Elizabeth Rozeboom and Manning, in June 2009.
Arden
2007
Jillianne Wrin and Peary Valeriani, in Hebron, summer 2009.
Former Faculty
Shailer Barron and Vikas Vatsa, summer 2009.
New Arrivals 1995
To Lyndsay Santeusanio and Doug Sanborn, a daughter, Ruby Grace Sanborn, on July 1, 2009.
1996
To Susan and Andy Stephenson, a daughter, Georgianna Price Steph enson, born November 18, 2009.
1997
To John and Arica Powers Monahan, a daughter, Alivia, born November 25, 2009.
Faculty
To Jen and Alex Godomsky, a son, Ethan, born July 26, 2009. To John and Arica Powers Monahan, a daughter, Alivia, born November 25, 2009.
Former Faculty
To Susan and Andy Stephenson, a daughter, Georgianna Price Steph enson, born November 18, 2009.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 39
alumni et alumnae Notable Alumnus: Allen Robinson ’00 1500 Soldiers Ready for Afghanistan Deployment By Sandy Vondrasek
In the past few weeks, the resident population of Vermont dropped by about 1500, as that many Vermont Army National Guard soldiers shipped out to Fort Polk, La., for training in advance of their deployment to Afghanistan later this year or early next. It is the largest deployment of the Vermont Guard since World War II. The soldiers, part of the 3000strong 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and drawn from units from across the state, are charged with training and mentoring Afghan national security forces, police, and border patrols. The deployment comes at an uneasy time: Violence in Afghanistan has markedly increased, and the Obama administration is debating whether to change the U.S. mission there. Vermont Guard soldiers have been undergoing mission-specific training for the last 18 months, according to Sgt. Allen Robinson, 28, of Braintree, who spoke with The Herald a few days before flying out for his Fort Polk training.
Robinson, an eight-year veteran of the Guard, has been working with a “light engineering” unit based in Bradford for the past three years. Light engineering, it turns out, means explosives. Robinson is a sapper, trained to disable bombs. Because of his skills, Robinson knows what he’ll be doing in Afghanistan, where the use—and deadliness—of roadside bombs has dramatically grown in the last year. Like his fellow Guardsmen and women, he does not know where in the mountainous country he’ll be stationed. “We’ll do road clearance, looking for roadside bombs, disarming them if we can, or calling EOD—Explosive Ordnance
Robinson and his team will be riding in highly armored MRAPspronounced M-RAPs, an acronym for mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles. Sgt. Robinson, who is leaving behind his wife, Alethea Robinson, and stepson Jacobie Larocque, admitted he is facing this deployment with mixed feelings. “I am excited to actually do what I am trained to do with the sappers, to do what I can to help another country. The flip side is being away from my family for a year—that’s going to be tough, not knowing what can happen on the next day.” He’s been taking extra time to do things with his family, and is pleased that Jacobie’s secondgrade class is “adopting” him during the deployment. He hopes the various activities planned by teacher Gus Howe will be a help to Jacobie, and allow the other kids to understand something about the Mideast. Robinson does have the experience of a prior deployment to Kuwait, but it was much different from what he faces now. “It was interesting, but it was not a combat zone—it was a safety zone,” he said. “Our relationship with the locals was nothing like were going to do now,” he said. “In Kuwait, we went out in convoys, and would see people on the side of the road. Now, we’ll actually be living with them.” In keeping with that changed mission, and as a reflection of
Disposal—if we can’t.”
what the military has learned from
Disabling Bombs
40 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
the past, training for deploying soldiers this time around has been “a lot better than what we did in the past,” Robinson said.
Relevant Training All soldiers have undergone simulation trainings in a mock Afghan village, set up in Jericho, said Robinson. “I just got back from Louisiana last Friday for a combat advisor course in how to deal with Afghan military commanders and police commanders—how to negotiate with them,” Robinson said. During that training, Robinson got to practice speaking with someone through an interpreter. Soldiers, he said, also learned that context can be as important as content in these exchanges. An Afghan leader, Robinson said, is likely more worried about “water and food for his kids, not video games and such.” The training the Robinson and his fellow Vermonters are undergoing now in Louisiana, he said, was designed to be “as close as you can get to being in Afghanistan.” Like most of the deploying soldiers, Robinson will be back in Vermont for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and will head out again for a few weeks’ training in Indiana, before shipping out overseas. Reprinted by kind permission of The Herald of Randolph. This article originally appeared in the November 5, 2009, edition.
tional Trade Center. n Leigh Stevens reports, “We are still living in Livermore Falls. My oldest, Joshua, just turned six and the twins, Abby and Luke, are almost four. I am currently working at the Wal-Mart distribution center in Lewiston. I’ve been there for two years now and actually like it. I fill the stores’ orders for meat and produce. It pays well, keeps me in a shape other than round, and I get four days off a week. That’s something I could not say when I was working in agriculture. I sold my cows almost a year ago now. It was hard to see them go, but with the family and all it was time to make a choice. I took what I made from the sale of the cows and have gotten into rental real estate. We currently own two buildings and are looking to add more in the future. We own a three-unit in Livermore Falls that we live in and recently bought a “gem” of a foreclosed, frozen-up, trashed, four-unit in Jay. We bought the building dirt cheap and have been rehabbing it for the last five months. The town has been awestruck with how we have turned the building around. It has a long history of trouble. We have two apartments finished and rented and are about three weeks from having the other two done and rented. Once those are done, we’re going to lick our wounds for a while and pay back the debt we racked up fixing this one. Once we’ve done that, we’re going to look at buying more.”
1996 Class Agent: Devon Biondi dmbiondi@gmail.com Ben Rifkin writes, “Living in Denver still and working for Ski and SKIING magazines and Warren Miller as director of digital sales. Son Dylan just turned 2!”
Find Hebron online Become a fan of Hebron Academy on Facebook (tinyurl.com/ HebronFacebook), network with other alumni and friends through our LinkedIn group (www.linkedin.com/ groups?gid=1892134), keep up with campus happenings by following us on Twitter (twitter.com/ HebronAcademy), check out the videos at YouTube (www.youtube.com/ hebronacademy1804) and see the Semester online at www. issuu.com/Hebron_Academy
alumni et alumnae Lost your yearbook?
Y
ou may be in luck. Yearbook advisor
Bill Chase has some
2004
back issues available
Class Agent: John Slattery jslattery@hebronacademy.org
for $95. E-mail him at wchase@hebronacademy.org to see if he has a copy of your year.
1997
Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org
Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class. Call or e-mail Pat Layman: 207-9665236, playman@hebronacademy.org
2002
1998 Class Agent: Kirsten Ness kirsten_ness@hotmail.com Karen Sanborn Cashman reports that she and Dan are doing well. Dan just started his own business, Cashman Communications, in Brewer (cascomm.net). Karen recently celebrated 5 years in her current position and has earned her national Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) by the Public Relations Society of America.
pletion in the spring of 2011.” n Mike Myrick writes, “Completed criminal justice degree program at Husson College. Fell into a job as land surveyor’s assistant. Loved it so much that I’m now attending Central Maine Community College in pursuit of certificate toward land surveyor’s apprenticeship.” n Sarah Shine is selling custom jewelry at www.shinecustomjewelrydesign.com.
Class Agent: Katie Curtis katie.curtis@gmail.com
2003 Class Agent: Sara Marquis saramarquis@hotmail.com Sara Marquis reports, “I’ve enrolled in grad school at Strayer University. Utilizing online courses, I’m pursuing a masters in business administration with a concentration in marketing. I’m anticipating com-
John Slattery joined Hebron Academy’s advancement department as gifts officer in December. Welcome!
2007 Class Agent: Noah Love nlove88@gmail.com Sara Powers was named a Sarah and James Bowdoin Scholar this fall. Bowdoin Scholars are in the top 20 per cent of their class during the previous academic year. Peary Valeriani recently returned from basic training and school in Missouri. He will be attending the University of Maine Farmington as well as continuing his service with the Army Reserve.
2008 Class Agents: Jen Duguayduguay@neu.edu
2005
Annie Hart
fifth reunion
2009
Class Agent: Tina Voigt tinafish33@aol.com Our sympathies to Megan Irving on the loss of her father in October.
2006 Class Agent: Allison Coombs mustangsally2010@hotmail.com Congratulations to Daniella Lyons on wining third place in the Scitable “Portrait of my DNA” global contest.
Class Agents: Claire Cummings claireelizabethcummings@gmail.com Sophia Chen sophia_chen917@hotmail.com
Former Faculty and Staff Our sympathies go to Susan and Whitney Blair on the loss of their oldest son, Whitney Pierpont Blair, in September. n Kelly Fitzpatrick is on the board and transition team (new CEO search) at Cottage Hospital in Woodsville, NH, and still deacon at OLPH in Bradford, VT, and St. Joseph’s in Woodsville. Barb is a volunteer at Cottage Hospital’s ER and president of the auxiliary.
1999 Class Agent: Joe Patry joseph.patry@gmail.com
2000 tenth reunion
Class Agent: Cori Hartman-Frey corinnahf@gmail.com
2001 Class Agent Needed! Find out how you can get involved with your class.
Class of 1999: Jake Leyden, Meg Muller, Heather Grindle, Leanne Bernier, Ryan Boisvert, Patty Begin, Megan Boyd, Dae Soon Acker, Christy Webster and Joe Patry.
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 41
alumni et alumnae
Obituaries 1935
★ Edward S. Boulos Jr. died on January 3, 2010. A native of Portland, Mr. Boulos attended Portland schools, Hebron Academy and Colby College, and served as a dive bomber pilot in the US Marine Corps during World War II. He was president of E.S. Boulos Company and was active in the civic and business communities, serving on the boards of Mercy Hospital, South Portland Bank and Trust, Depositor’s Trust, Key Bank, Nuclear Waste Authority, and the Greater Portland Development Commission. He was a lifetime member of the Portland Country Club and the Cumberland Club. Mr. Boulos served as a former president of the E.S. Boulos Company, Coastal Industries, Riverside Realty, Exit 3 Realty, E/I Corporation, and the EFCC Power Group. He also enjoyed traveling, and did so extensively. Mr. Boulos was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, E. Margaret (Harvey) Boulos. He is survived by their six children, Edward S. Boulos III, Joseph Boulos, Margaret Boulos, Catherine Boulos, Dorothy Ricker and Gregory Boulos; 10 grandchildren; and three siblings, Margaret Cullinan, Elizabeth Wilson and Dorothy Boulos.
1938
★ Robert W. “Bob” Tonner died November 11, 2009. He was husband of 67 years to Margery “Peggy” (Hillier) Tonner. Mr. Tonner was born in Quincy and graduated from Colgate University. He enlisted in the United States Air Corps in 1942, earning his Navy wings. He served gallantly in WWII in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters of war. He fought in a ten-hour battle in the Caribbean, sinking a German U-boat. He won the Distinguished Flying Cross in the battle to liberate the Philippines. He won six Navy Service Medals and was a member of the Patriot Squadron at the South Weymouth Air Base for many years. Mr. Tonner was vice president of the Prouvost Lefebvre & Company of Charleston, SC for 38 years. He was involved in the wool and textile business all of his life. He was active in Braintree, where he lived most of his life. He was a 60-year member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church where he organized the church basketball team with the South Shore YMCA. He was the leader and coach for over 15 years and served on the vestry of the church. Bob also was one of the organizers of Braintree Youth Hockey Association and directed and coached the teams, serving as president. Mr. Tonner leaves three sons, Robert W. Tonner Jr., James H. Tonner ‘74 and Bradford M. Tonner ‘74; a daughter Suzanne (Tonner) Okerfel; two granddaughters and many nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Richard C. Tonner.
1939
★ Amo Bessone, who spent 28 years as the head coach of the Michigan State hockey and guided the Spartans to the 1966 NCAA title, died in New Mexico on January 11, 2010. Mr. Bessone coached 814 games behind the Michigan State bench. He was Michigan State’s longest-tenured hockey coach and instrumental in building the Spartan hockey program. He tutored 12 All-Americans and three Olympians. He retired after the 1978–1979 season with a career record of 367–427–20 at Michigan State. One hallmark of Mr. Bessone’s tenure was giving back to the community. He is credited with helping the Greater Lansing Amateur Hockey Association (GLAHA) get off the ground—donating used Michigan State equipment and encouraging his varsity players to help coach in the youth hockey circuit. GLAHA started with three players in 1953; today, GLAHA has 23 teams for boys and girls from mites to midgets. In tribute to his efforts over the years, several awards now bear his name. At Michigan State, one player is recognized each year for athletic and academic achievement as well as community participation by earning the the Amo Bessone Award. Each year, GLAHA’s Coach of the Year receives the Amo Bessone Award as well. In his hometown of Springfield, Massachusetts, the Amo Bessone award is given to the top high school player in Western Massachusetts. Mr. Bessone was born in 1916 on Cape Cod and raised in West Springfield, Massachusetts. He attended West Springfield High School then later played at Hebron Academy and the Kent Hills School in Maine. He earned his undergraduate degree University of Illinois in 1943, where he lettered in baseball in addition to hockey. He moved on to an AHL career, but that was cut short due to his service in World War II. He began his coaching career at Westfield (Mass.) High in 1946, and made his move into the college ranks at Michigan Tech two years later. He spent three seasons at the helm of the Husky program before signing on at Michigan State in the fall of 1951. In 1992, he was inducted into the US Hockey Hall of Fame and Michigan State’s Hall of Fame.
1941
★ Robert Bell Petersen, formerly of Falmouth, died at the Houston County Nursing Home in Crockett, Texas, on November 20, 2009, after a period of failing health. A life-long Mainer, he moved to Texas in 2003. Mr. Peterson was born in Portland to Mary Bell Petersen and Robert Jens Petersen. He attended the University of Maine and graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Maine Maritime Academy. He served in the US Navy during WWII, mostly in the Pacific Theater, aboard the fresh water tender USS Abatan. He attained the rank of Lieutenant JG. Following
42 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009
his naval tour, he began his career with GMAC and later worked for Canal Bank and The Portland Savings Bank/People’s Heritage Bank. In his spare time, he was an avid reader, maritime historian and sailing enthusiast, gardener, and crossword puzzle aficionado. He was a very intellectual man who loved learning and discussing ideas. He believed in fairness and opportunity for all people and the worth of all living things. He was active in several civic groups including local historical societies, the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce, and the Yarmouth Lions’ Club. He was married to the late Adéle Noyes Petersen. He is survived by four children, Robert “Sandy” Petersen, Mark Petersen, Karen Stott and Suzanne Petersen; and five grandchildren.
1942
★ Daniel N. Howes died on December 3, 2009, in Boston, following a brief illness. He was the husband of the late Patricia Conway Howes, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage. Born in Swampscott, he was the son of the late Paul and Florence (Drake) Howes. Raised and educated in Swampscott, he was a graduate of Swampscott High School. He then attended Hebron and the University of Maine before entering the Navy in 1942. After his service during World War II and discharge in 1945, Mr. Howes continued his education in business administration at the University of Maine. His career in the leather industry began in 1947, first for A.C. Lawrence in Peabody doing various jobs in the tannery before being promoted to sales. In 1957, he became the New England sales manager for S.B. Foot Tanning Company in Red Wing, Minnesota, for 40 years and remained a consultant until his illness. An accomplished sailor, he was a longtime member of the Corinthian Yacht Club in Marblehead, where he was involved in US-1 Design racing. He enjoyed being involved with youth activities and was especially generous with his time transporting many local hockey groups of all ages to games throughout New England and Canada. Mr. Howes is survived by two sons, Timothy Howes and Christopher Howes; three daughters, Carol Altshuler, Nancy Faul and Sheila Chandler; a sister, Pauline McPheeters; 16 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Deborah Howes Williams.
1948
Robert Lindley Rice died September 8, 2009, after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia. He is survived by his brother, Cleaveland Rice; his two daughters, Lisa and Sally, and his five grandchildren. ★ Peter A. Southwick, formerly of Enfield and a longtime resident of Somers, died July 19, 2009 at his home. Born in Yonkers, NY in 1929, he was the son of Lawrence and Francis (Symonds) Southwick. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Bowdoin College in 1952 and attended the New York Institute of Finance. He was formerly employed by Atlantic Refining Company in sales and enjoyed a long career as a stockbroker and
financial consultant, working for various firms, retiring 20 years ago from Smith Barney. Mr. Southwick was a veteran of the US Army during the Korean War and served as an Honor Guard. He served as an assistant scout master for the boy scouts. He was a man of many talents and skills. He was very handy and could fix just about anything. He enjoyed woodworking and he loved nature and spending time outdoors. In his leisure time, he was an avid reader making frequent trips to the Somers Library. Mr. Southwick is survived by two sons, Peter M. Southwick and Scott A. Southwick; a brother, David Southwick; two sisters, Nancy Westland and Sara “Muffie” Southwick; two grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and his companion and friend, Jane Legg. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Nanette (Simkins) Southwick in 1996.
1951
★ Henry C. “Budge” Atterbury died July 24, 2009. Born in Norwich, Connecticut in 1932, he a graduated from Yale University with a BA in history and economics. After Yale, he joined the U.S. Air Force where he became a pilot and navigator. He was a longtime member of the U.S. Power Squadron where he taught boating safety and navigation courses for more than 50 years, was a past commander and a member of the local Saugatuck Squadron since 1969. He was an active and enthusiastic member of the Y’s Men of Westport. Mr. Atterbury is survived by J. Shirley, his wife of 54 years; four sons, Henry, Bruce, Douglas and Dana; seven grandchildren; and his sailboat Suntop. He was loved by many for his quick wit and good natured spirit. He was passionate about many things, including sailing, photography, jazz, Calvin and Hobbes comics, and anything chocolate. He readily shared his contagious smile, thoughtful commentary on current events, and refurbished bicycles and other treasures collected from castaway items. His family and friends will miss his loving support and sense of humor. Richard “Dick” Taylor Hagan died July 3, 2009, after a long illness at his home in Windsor with his family by his side. He was born in 1933 to Evelyn Taylor Hagan and Thomas Martin Hagan. He grew up in the Auburn/Hebron area and attended Maine Maritime Academy. He worked for the state of Maine, Department of Labor, and supervisor of Migrant Labor Certification and the Maine Job Bank computer system. He was also heavily involved in the community. He was a 30-year member of the Whitefield Lions Club, and presented the Melvin Jones award. He coordinated the Annual Model Rail Road and Doll House Show at the Augusta Armory for 20 years. He was also an active 32nd degree Mason, a lifetime member of the Riverside Lodge 135 of Jefferson, Ancient Brothers Lodge 178 of Auburn, Bradford Chapter 9, Dunlap Chapter 8, Pine Cone Council 31, and Valley of Portland Consistory; Past Officers Association 1, Lewiston Commandary 6, Eusebius Conclave 3, Red Cross of Constantine, Maine Lodge of Research, Pine Tree Priory 65 York Knight Cross of Honor, Valley of the Androscoggin, Dirigo College 103, Lake
alumni et alumnae View Chapter 179 Order of Eastern Star; High Twelve Mid Coast Masonic Club 738, Rockport, and life member of the Keystone Royal Arch Lodge 24, Rockport, Past District Deputy for Masonic District 7, member of Scottish Rites in Auburn and Past High Priest of Scottish Rites. Mr. Hagan was also a member of the Windsor Historical Society and enjoyed talking with visitors at the museum during the Windsor Fair each year. He had been active in the town of Windsor politics, and had served on the Windsor Budget Committee, Planning Board and Board of Selectmen. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Barbara Dodge Hagan; his beloved Siamese cat Koko; and many, many fraternal friends.
1953
Martin D. Singer, devoted husband of Sandra (Zetlen) Singer, died November 12, 2009, in Peabody, Massachusetts, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. Martin and Sandra shared 54 years of marriage. He attended Brown University, and graduated with a BS in chemistry from Lowell Technological Institute, now Lowell University. Mr. Singer was in the leather industry for many years, including sharing 30 years with his father at Barney Singer and Son in Peabody. He leaves his beloved children, Andria Eisen, David Singer, and Michael Singer; his sister, Marsha Marshall; and five grandchildren.
continued from page 44
According to the Fall Semester, the prospects for the team were uncertain. Few lettermen returned from the previous year, and the roster listed new players—many from suburban Boston—young men who were investing a single year at Hebron in preparation for college. The team won its first two games easily, and then defeated New Hampton School 25–0 as “the boys clicked as one man and were unstoppable.” The names begin to be repeated: Jimmy Dolan of South Portland, Harold Everett of Everett, Massachusetts, Norm Gauvreau of Lewiston, John Noyes of Andover, Massachusetts. After the team’s 14–0 decision over Maine Central Institute, the Hebronian noted that “with Bonser’s excellent playing in the line, the enemy was completely unstoppable.” This fall, Dick would share the memory that he played every game, every down, on both offense and defense, a remarkable accomplishment.
1967
Richard Mann Kelly died February 22, 2009, in Boulder, Colorado, after a brief illness. Born in the mid-west, Mr. Kelly spent his formative years in Sudbury, Massachusetts, and graduated from Lincoln Sudbury Regional High School in 1966 before coming to Hebron. He went on to attend Boston University. He lived in Framingham, Massachusetts, for several decades. His work career included employment in the computer industry holding positions at Charles River Data Systems, Progress Software, Raytheon, Samsung, Lightbridge, and numerous other companies through temporary employment. After moving to Colorado in 1999, Mr. Kelly became a member of the NRA. He leaves his parents Joseph V. and Eleanor Kelly; his sisters Ellen Linn, Catherine Britt and Elizabeth Kelly. He also leaves his long-time companion Anna Bush. He will be remembered for his long involvement with the internet, love of animals, and unfulfilled dream of retiring to Colorado’s San Luis Valley.
after 27 years of service. He enjoyed many adventures traveling throughout the United States and Canada. In Maine, he had many devoted friends, especially in the Belfast area. He loved to be outdoors and tend to his large garden and many fruit trees, as well as to spend time with his beloved black lab, Belle. Mr. Pitt was predeceased earlier this year by his father, David L. Pitt, Sr. His survivors include his son, Stephen David Pitt; his mother, Mary Pitt; his three sisters, Leslie Russo, Ellen Barry and Christine Pitt; several nieces and nephews and their families; as well as many other family and friends.
time member of Trinity Lutheran Church in South Paris and a charter member of the Finnish-American Heritage Society in Maine. However, poor health and immobility prevented her from attending in the later years. Like her husband, Matti, she was extremely proud of her Finnish heritage and traveled to Finland several times. Mrs. Heikkinen is survived by her two children, Thomas Heikkinen ‘73 and Ann Heikkinen Fernald ‘76. Also surviving is her older sister Fannie Polvinen and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by an infant sister Helen, and brothers Waino, Alpo, Vilho, and Eino.
Former faculty and staff
★ Veteran
David L. Pitt Jr. died unexpectedly at his home in Swanville on December 5, 2009. He was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1955, the son of David and Mary (Geron) Pitt. Mr. Pitt attended Beverly Community College and Bentley College. He worked for Verizon (now FairPoint), retiring recently
Sylvia Sivia Kuvaja Heikkinen, 82, died quietly July 2, 2009 at Market Square Health Care Center in South Paris, Maine. She was born in Richardson Hollow in Greenwood in 1926, the daughter of Peter and Esteri Kuvaja. She attended school in Greenwood. She married Matti V. Heikkinen in 1954, who predeceased her in 2002. They moved to a small farm in Hebron in 1956 and spent the rest of their married life there. She worked at Hebron Academy as a housekeeper for over 20 years until she retired in 1991. Being involved in 4H as a youngster instilled in her a love of sewing and she made her own dresses. She also loved to read, do puzzles, garden, raise flowers and make nisu for family and church gatherings. She was a long-
The team continued, defeating Bowdoin, and the Hebronian staff writer noted that “[Harold] Everett seemed to be everywhere at once, tackling, blocking and intercepting passes.” The Exeter game followed, and “they emerged with a 25–0 victory, the worst defeat that Exeter has ever sustained at the hands of Hebron.” Dick’s eyes filled as he recounted the effort of his line mates, how each play had seemed a sort of private battle. They held Exeter down, allowing their backs to push through for critical yards and finally the winning scores. Dick allowed that he felt “pretty beat up afterward,” and he would be in the school infirmary for part of the following week. In thanks, he inscribed a copy of his senior photo, “To Nursie—I’ll never be able to thank you enough for those two days before the Kents Hill game. Sincerely, Dick.” At that time, Herb Cantello, the genial manager of the Hebron Trading Post, offered an
award for the outstanding player in the Exeter game. Jimmy Dolan, one of the team’s backs and its kicker, received the award, with “Bonser and Howie Johns (Everett, Massachusetts) receiving “serious consideration.” The team defeated Kents Hill by a narrow margin for its seventh season victory in a game for which the Hebronian noted that “our boys were a little too much for our fast and powerful rivals. After a long and uphill grind, we emerged victorious 7–0. Ken Wright scored on a blocked punt which Jimmy Dolan accounted for the extra point.” While the season would ultimately end in a loss to the Brown University freshman team in Providence, Mr. Hunt would praise the team at a December school banquet for its drive and determination, its character throughout the season. Sport, Hunt felt, was preparation for life, and the values of hard work, team play and camaraderie were
1974
Other deaths
James Talbot ‘37, in January 2009. John Hanley ‘43, on June 29, 2009. Michael Smith ‘56, in 2008. Frank Waterman ‘57, in June 2009. James H. Connors, Jr. ‘70, on March 30, 2009. Rebecca Cohen Schaffer ‘77, in 2009. Robert Drayer, former faculty, in 2008.
the foundation of future success. After playing every down of every game, Dick Bonser would shortly be elected president of the Class of 1939 as well as the leader of the Athletic Council, at that time, the governing body for Hebron sports and the arbiter of all varsity letters awarded. This brief account can hardly do justice to events now but very distant memories to but a very few. And yet, if one tries to read between the lines of these long-ago experiences, one cannot help but feel something of the universal experience inspired by Hebron athletics—to risk oneself by trying something unknown; to share, in the company of friends, the challenges of preparation and the trials of competition; to know shortfalls and accomplishments both individual and collective; and finally, to capture in the moment something important of friendship and of life. David W. Stonebraker
Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 • 43
hebroniana
T
when we were giants
here are fifteen names on the ball, a Spaulding “Official Intercollegiate” football which rests on a countertop in the Bell-Lipman Archives. It remembers a Hebron team which claimed a Maine Interscholastic Championship in 1938, a team which prided itself on beating Exeter Academy 25–0; but more poignantly, it remembers fifteen young men from a time when Hebron “prepped” young men for college and for life. Richard “Dick” Bonser ’39, captain of that 1938 team and a lifelong resident of Biddeford, Maine, returned to campus at Homecoming to be inducted into Hebron’s Athletic Hall of Fame, and as he held again the ball from that season seventy years ago, tears and stories flowed of a special time, a special team, special friends. Continued on page 43 44 • Hebron Academy Semester • Fall 2009 photograph by Diana Griggs, Tannery Hill Studios, Inc.
Hebron’s Values Trust Respect
Honor Help support these values by giving to the Hebron Annual Fund. www.givetohebron.org
Hebron Academy PO Box 309 Hebron ME 04238
Class of 1959 celebrates fiftieth
Members of the Class of 1959 celebrated their 50th reunion at Homecoming in October. From left: Bernard Helm, Paul Dahlquist, Richard Borofsky, Bruce Edge, Thomas Mann, John Redmond, Bruce MacDougal, Ed Caplan and Jim Harberson. See Class Notes for more photos from Reunion/Homecoming 2009. Photograph by Dennis Griggs, Tannery Hill Studios, Inc.