Outstanding Pupil a Conservationist

I have an original copy of an article published Wednesday, May 17, 1961 in The Kansas City Times newspaper. I quote:

"A slender 5-foot 8-inch Oak Grove youngster plans to pit his 140 pounds against the adversities of nature in order to help conserve wild life.

Harvey F. (Pete) Grayum, a member of the Oak Grove high school graduating class of 32 seniors, at 17 years old has a realistic conception of the duties of conservation agents.

'In hard winters I want to be out in the weather to keep the wild life going,' he said. 'I want to work in restocking streams with fish and keeping records of the number of deer killed.'

To start, he will attend William Jewell college, Liberty, this fall and major in biology.

The beginning of his interest in conservation came from three years at the Boy Scout camp at Osceola. He has read the Missouri Conservationist for years. He hunts rabbit and quail and 'fishes all I can.'

In high school he served as treasurer of the Student Council and art editor of the yearbook. (He does still life paintings, 'every once in a while, when I get the urge,') managed the football team, played guard and defensive line backer on the squad and was on the track squad.

Pete also had time for church. The faculty named him the outstanding student.

At the exercises last night at the auditorium, Dr. Don W. Holter, president of St. Paul School of Theology, gave the commencement address. B.B. Robinette, president of the board of education, presented the diplomas.

The valedictorian was Carol Helman. Sharon Shrout and Harry Riead tied for salutatorian honors. About 500 persons attended the ceremony in the junior high school gymnasium."

(NOTE: My, my how things can change!)