[Buffalo Jim]

I grew up in a very small town in the Northern most part of NY State . I entered school in 1956 and graduated from High School in 1968 then went on to
a small public college and eventually earned an MBA .

It was a poor community and of course we did not have much exposure beyond the area where we lived . IE -- no cable TV .

I was fortunate to have been taught by many great and highly dedicated teachers from Kindergarten through High School . They taught me to love reading , history , math and the sciences .

They encouraged me along the way beginning in the 4th Grade telling me that
I could , should and must attend college . Neither of my parents had graduated from High School and I was the oldest child of four .
I distinctly recall my 4th Grade teacher , Mrs. Irene Marlof , asking me to stay after school one day . I could not figure out what I might have done wrong . I had been very sick for several weeks and had missed a lot of school . I had been working very hard to " catch up ".
Mrs. Marlof sat down next to me pulling up a student desk next to mine. She explained that she would be leaving our school soon to accept a new position out of the area . Her words I will never forget " Jim , I know that things are not easy for your family but you are a gifted student and my wish for you is that you set college as your goal and allow yourself to love learning .
By the 5th grade no one ever had to nag at me to study . I made college my goal and through college a better life for myself . I also as the oldest child wanted to set an example for my 3 younger siblings .
Space does not allow me to pay proper tribute to each of my teachers however I never had a " bad " teacher . Each in their own way was an inspiration .
Also I was fortunate to attend school when teachers were allowed to teach and allowed to discipline students who got out of line without fear of parental interference .
I lost touch with Mrs. Marlof . In May of 1972 I received my college degree and participated in graduation ceremonies . A few days later much to my surprise I received a graduation card from Mrs. Marlof !
She wrote : " My daughter graduated with her Masters Degree and I was in the audience . When I heard your name called and watched you walk up to get your degree I was so proud that it brought tears to my eyes . I never forgot about you " .
And Mrs. Marlof , I have never forgotten about you . The love of learning that you and others instilled in me allowed me to have a great life . Now in retirement I am able to spend many hours learning new things every day .
God Bless you and all teachers everywhere .