1951 THROUGH 2013: PROUD OF MY HAMILTON HIGH '51 CLASSMATES

We're all familiar with those reunions where our classmates tell us of the great success they have had since leaving the hallowed halls of learning; many times regaling us with stories that foretell a fantastic and affluent lifestyle. Back in Hamilton High, Louise Baird asked us to memorize the following quote and to live by it:

"GREATNESS IS HUMBLE." 

That personifies Pat and Bob Beckett who as you can see in the graphic above, have quietly shared their intellectual accomplishments for the benefit of others. Indeed, they have remained true to the slogan of the high school of our youth, "ENTER TO LEARN, GO FORTH TO SERVE." You and Pat have done that, Pat and Bob, we are very proud of you and what you have accomplished.

2013: A HHS WEST MUSICAL LEGEND TO RETIRE

I received the above email from Mr. Brian Maher advising me of the forthcoming retirement of Suzanne Proulx from the Vocal Music program at Hamilton High School. Over the ensuing years this very talented and music-minded lady has kept the tradition of musical excellence alive at Hamilton West as she very admirably continued the tradition of musical excellence set by her predecessor. I'm sure all HHS alumni wish you a very happy retirement, Suzanne. You have given the Township of Hamilton a reason to be proud of your incredible music talents. 

Anyone who has followed my column and my internet sites knows the great love I have for my musical education beginning way back in 1943 when I was in Miss Ruth Margerum's Kuser School "Glee Club" to 1948 when I was privileged to have been a student of Miss Louis Simpson Baird who was the Vocal Music teacher at Hamilton High before it was known as "West." When "Ouise" retired in the early 1960's Hamilton lost a lady who left her musical mark on countless alumni. Sue Proulx filled that spot and has maintained the tradition of vocal music excellence that has become a Hamilton West hallmark. As that song I often sing from

the movie "Momma Mia" goes, 

"Thank you for the music, the songs I'm singing,

Thanks for all the joy they're bringing,

Who can live without it, I ask in all honesty,

What would life be,

Without a song or a dance what are we,

So I say thank you for the music,

For giving it to me.."

May God bless you, Suzanne, and a very long and happy retirement!