Western Massachusetts
Item
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Title
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Western Massachusetts
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Date
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December 1940
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volume
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5
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issue
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6
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page start
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14
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page end
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14
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content
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en
WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS
A printed report on the activities of the Western Massachusetts Fencing Clubs, with headquarters at the West Springfield Y.M.C.A., won eighth place among entries from 1,200 Y.M.C.A.’s throughout the United States in a contest at the World’s Fair last summer. The report, in the form of a 16-page booklet depicting a resume of the organization’s work since it was formed early in 1939, was a part of the National Youth Project program, and received three prizes from the Fair as well.
The report was characterized as follows by Robert Littell, editor of Readers Digest and one of the judges:
"In contrast to the other selections, this report is in the field of sports; but it seems to be so well organized and to be giving so much valuable and healthful exercise to the participants and entertainment to its many audiences that I think it should be ranked ahead of other projects which have a more serious aim."
The Western Massachusetts Division is planning an active 1940-41 season. Lucille Poppe is president of the division, Grace Sullivan secretary and Helen Kobera treasurer. Douglas P. Boyea, fencing coach at Springfield College, also acts as coach of the Western Massachusetts Club.
Mr. J. P. O’Donnell, coach at the Springfield Y.M.C.A., brought about 20 of his boys and girls to New York City late in November to visit one of the larger Salle d’Armes. As word of the invasion spread, New York fencers automatically assembled to practice and fence with the visitors.
