Columns inspire readers to relate own experiences

It is heartwarming to see how some of these columns inspire readers to respond with personal experiences. Only those deemed to be of interest to you are passed along.

Example No. 1: Dr. James F. Snyder, an engaging retired professor at the College of Charleston's School of Business. Jim was one of the first in the academic world to recognize the importance of international trade for all of business. He led countless groups of students overseas for firsthand experiences.

He relates, "Great Open story on Saturday. I want to share an experience I once had. Shagged balls on the range at the Hershey (Pa.) Country Club for Ben Hogan. Also caddied for the club champion in a foursome with Ben in a exhibition match."

Hogan would be proud to see another former caddy maturing to a great educational career.

Example No. 2: Charles W. Moody Jr. writes, "Reading your column regarding the Tucker automobile brought back memories of an invitation to take a ride in a new Tucker about 1949 when we were living in Johnstown, Pa.

"A friend of the family, Coover Greer, was to get a franchise for the Tucker, and such a model was being made available for short periods of time to promote the new car in various areas. There were four adults in the car as 'Coove' went speeding around curves in the dark to show off the Cyclops eye. Also, I thought it was supposed to demonstrate ability to take curves easily. Thanks for the memories!"

And thank you for sharing, Mr. Moody.

Example No. 3: Petee Anderson of Charleston also relates to the Tucker column. "I had a seminar in Business Analysis at the Univer-sity of Wisconsin in 1954-1955. We had to write term papers on specific companies.

"One of mine was on the Tucker auto, a fascinating, well-publicized story on which I spent too much time, but did get an 'A' as I recall. The Tucker was definitely a revolutionary auto well ahead of its time in terms of the engine, facets, design and performance specifications.

"... Some of the writing on Tucker criticized the SEC as overzealous in trying to define its role as a newer regulatory agency. However, Tucker probably did commit some violations."

The following is about real horsepower. Former GM colleague Bill Shea of New York City, a follower of horse racing, reports on the progress of a favorite horse of mine, Royal Spaulding.

"Royal Spaulding has not been a great winner," Bill says. "He was a favorite in the last two races, but failed." His trainer, incidentally, also trained Funny Cide.

Bill's analysis of Royal Spaulding: "She has a habit of coming in second — call her a bridesmaid." No, it doesn't run in the family.

George Spaulding is a reti have red General Motors executive and distinguished executive-in-residence emeritus at the School of Business and Economics at the College of Charleston. He can be reached at 2 Wharfside St., 2A, Charleston, SC 29401.