Thompson 340516

Cliffside, May 16 — In Rutherfordton is located the Rutherford Hospital, an institution which receives the favorable comment of hundreds of the county’s citizens, an institution which has one of the most considerate and tolerate staff of nurses, physicians and office personnel that I have seen. With a knowledge of hospital’s reputation—my father, my mother and two sisters have had operations there—I can say that its record of a great public service is long since established. Talking with Dr. John C. Mills, Cliffside Druggist, recently, we discussed the fine work which has been done and is being done by this hospital. Outstanding is the friendliness: the kindliness–no one is embarrassed by a “red tape” situation in the instance of an emergency. I know personally that this can not and is not said of numerous larger hospitals. So may we say: Here’s to You, Rutherford Hospital!

Although a very old story—the eternal triangle—but with fascinating settings, “Riptide” will be enjoyed by many of you. It is set in continental Europe and to keep yourself correct on the geography of the picture is good amusement. The scenes rush from London to Paris, to St. Moritz and back again. The fool of sophistication, Robert Montgomery, is good. Grand in their acting, certainly, are Norma Shearer and Herbert Marshall. Marshall, as you know, is of the English stage. He has played in the American films before in “Trouble in Paradise” and in Evenings For Sale.” If you note carefully, you will see that this very brilliant actor has a slight limp of the left leg. It is artificial.

Every Cross-road town has its wise-crack boys. Recently Cliffside has been in the throes of such an epidemic. The gang gathers around the corner drug store and one thing sure: a new gag bounces. Some walker-up is the target for the new one… Many of the big time comedians are mimics of the small-town smart alecs. Johnson, of Olson and Johnson, famous in radio and films, got his famous laugh in this manner—from a small town wit. Joe Penner effects numerous antics of the small town smart cracks. Many of the more famous comedians are small town boys. They have taken along the tricks of the small town and their ability to remember them has been success.

A lady of unusual energy: a hard worker. A type of woman who pioneered in Revolutionary days. She can meet a situation in any level of the community’s life with adept accuracy. When duty demands assistance for the less fortunate, this is the lady who is there. Her indefatigable efforts are surely due recognition. She has managed CWA [Civil Works Administration] dispensation. She is past president of the local Parent-Teachers Association. Her church activities are untiring. A real asset to the community. The community will join me in expressing this appreciation. A salute to Mrs. George C. Shuford.

Small towner’s diary: Sunday. Up at 9 and to church shortly. Later on the main stem of Cliffside traffic, Main Street, riding with Miles Haynes. And met up with Rev. Scruggs and wife of Charlotte, formerly Cliffside folk. They hear of me in Charlotte. It pleased me much. Dinner. A cake with “Mother” inscribed held honor place on the table. There were chicken and salads and so forth. My current weakness: iced tea. Afternoon talking with the boys downstreet. Riding “downtown” with the George Shufords at 7:30 p. m. And cold drinks. Warmer weather; do you agree? Home at 9 and writing. Whistling “Neighbors” and so good-bye.