Dear Mr. Kelsey

Doris Roberts: Actress - Everybody Loves Raymond

2009-06-29T14:41:00.001-04:00

If you have ever watched the show Everybody Loves Raymond, then you know who Doris Roberts is. She plays Marie, the mom on the show. She has always been one of my absolute favorite characters. She sent a very sweet letter that says:

Be persistent and determined.
Enjoy and celebrate each small step of success, whether its succeeding in a game of sports or completing your homework that your proud of. Each small accomplishment leads to confidence and self esteem.

Good luck

Warmest Regards
Doris Roberts

Sofia Milos – CSI: Miami

2009-06-29T14:39:00.002-04:00

Sofia Milos is an actress on the hit TV show CSI: Miami. On the show she plays a police officer. Doesn’t she have a cool looking signature? She not only sent a signed picture but also a great letter. The letter is pretty easy to read but the picture is hard to see. It says, “To the Manor Hill Elementary 5th grade students I wish you much love and success Sofia Milos” I think one of the coolest things about a letter from her is that she is a big time television star and she took the time to write a letter to students. I think that shows how important education is. Enjoy this letter.

Charlie Daniels – Country Music Star

2009-06-29T14:33:00.003-04:00

If you like country music then you have heard at least one song from Charlie Daniels. He is famous for his fiddle playing and for the song The Devil Went Down to Georgia. He sent a very nice signed picture as well as a great letter. Here is what he had to say.

Dear Class

It is an honor to talk to you.

I hope that all of you are planning to finish school. I know that you hear this a lot but it’s one of the most important things you will ever do.

We live in the greatest nation the world has known, with great freedom and opportunities. Don’t let anybody convince you differently.

Things can be difficult at times but if you just keep trying you can win.

As for me, I am a Christian and my faith in God and Jesus Christ are the most important things in my life.

I wish you all success and happiness.

God Bless
Charlie Daniels

Survivor - Gervase Peterson

2009-06-29T13:56:00.002-04:00

Do you remember when Survivor first came on the air? My family wasn’t really into it at first, then I stayed with some friends who were. We were eating dinner and someone looked at their watch and said, “Survivor starts in two minutes!” I have never seen a table cleaned off faster. I’m still not a huge survivor fan but occasionally I will watch it, and there have been a couple of seasons that I have gotten into. On the first season, it was such a new concept that everyone was hooked. One of the big moments that season was when Gervase had to eat rat. In his letter to students, he mentions this but also has some good advice.

Martin
I would tell your students to love and respect themselves and each other. I got teased about my name as a kid, but it never bothered me because I love my name and how it made me different. Listen to your teachers and pay attention in school. Knowledge is one thing that you will always have. If you get hurt playing sports or if Hollywood thinks you’re not “hot” anymore you always have your education to fall back on. No matter what you’re doing strive to be the best if it’s playing sports, taking a test or telling jokes. Even if you don’t end up being the best you can still be successful. Richard won Survivor so he’s the best (unfortunately). I didn’t but I’m still successful because I tried my hardest to be the best. Last thing my favorite have fun. No matter what you’re doing you should be having fun and enjoying yourself. Doing Survivor was so hard, but it was the best time of my life and I had so much fun. So good luck and remember this if I can survive the island with Rich walking around naked you can survive anything!

Gervase

H. Norman Schwarzkopf – Four Star General

2009-06-29T13:50:00.001-04:00

Even though you can’t read the signature on this letter, it is from a military giant. When I was in junior high, the United States began the first gulf war. During this war there were several people who became national heroes including Colin Powel, and the writer of this letter, General Norman Schwarzkopf. He was a four star general. I like how his letter uses his military background to give advice to fifth graders.

Peter Doctor - Director of Monsters Inc.

2009-06-29T10:56:00.002-04:00

This is one of my favorite letters that I have received lately. Peter Doctor is a movie director that has done some amazing movies. Probably his most famous is the Disney, Pixar movie, Monsters Inc. He also directed the new movie Up. I have not seen this movie yet but I have heard that it is really good. One of the great things about this letter are the sketches he added at the bottom of Mike from Monsters Inc., and of one of the main characters from Up.

Robert David Hall: CSI Coroner

2009-06-26T14:53:00.002-04:00

If you are a CSI fan, then you have seen Robert David Hall. He plays the coroner. He wrote a great letter and sent a cool signed picture. The picture is a little hard to see, it says, “To the GREAT students at Manor Hill Elementary School – Robert David Hall” I also love the postscript that added at the end of his letter. Here is what his letter has to say:

Dear Mr. Kelsey – Thanks for your chance to write to your students.

I decided to become an actor in the 5th grade. My teacher Mrs. Myers encouraged me to read and act in school plays. It’s not always important to be the star, but it’s crucial to always participate. The men and woman who end up with careers are usually the people who never give up and always keep learning. Some of the most important moments in my life were the Shakespeare plays I acted in for no money. Any career worth pursuing is a lot of hard work but it’s also a lot of fun.

Best wishes to you and all the students at Manor Hill Elementary

Robert David Hall, former 5th grade actor

Charles W. Lindberg - Flag Raiser at Iwo Jima

2009-06-26T14:49:00.001-04:00

Charles W. Lindberg is a true American hero. He is one of the original flag raisers at Iwo Jima. This even has been immortalized by a statue in Washington D.C. He sent a very nice letter and autographed picture. I hope you enjoy this great military heroes letter.

Haven Moses – Denver Broncos

2009-06-26T14:46:00.002-04:00

I am a Denver Broncos Fan. I have been since kindergarten. I honestly have not written to very many Broncos players in the past (although I did get a John Elway autographed helmet last week). Haven Moses is a Broncos Ring of Famer and was a great player for them in the 70’s. He sent a very touching letter that I have included the text of below:

Dear 5th Grade,
I am honored that your teacher, Mr. Kelsey, chose to write to me and ask for my thoughts. I am currently 53 years of age, probably ancient to most of you, and very thankful for the wonderful experiences that I’ve had during my lifetime, especially having the opportunity to play in the NFL for 14 years.

However, what I reflect upon the most was my upbringing and education, my parents taught me and my brothers and sister the importance of being a Good Person and to respect others and they made sure though many sacrifices that we received a good solid education and supported us in whatever we did. God Bless and have a wonderful 2000.
Haven Moses #25

Chris McCarron - Hall of Fame Jockey

2009-06-26T14:09:00.001-04:00

I’m not a huge horse racing fan. I actually wrote to Mr. McCarron because one of my students loved horses. I knew he was a good jockey but I didn’t realize how good. He has ridden in over 34,000 races and has won over 7,000. That means that he has won over 20% of his races. I think this is a phenomenal number. He sent a short note on an index card as well as a signed picture. In the letter he said, “To the students, In pursuit of your reams, never say die, and always expect a BEST EFFORT from yourself. Chris McCarron”

Clint Black - Country Music Artist

2009-06-26T13:50:00.000-04:00

Growing up my family listened to a lot of country music. I was a big fan of Marty Stuart and my brother was a Clint Black fan. I’ve seen Clint Black in concert (The Black and Wy tour at the state fair, if I remember correctly) and I got a chance to meet him once when he was doing a signing at a local Wal-Mart. My brother got a cowboy hat signed and I got a baseball. (That baseball also has Chely Wright, and Toby Keith on it). The letter from Clint Black is a little disappointing that it wasn’t signed but he did send a signed picture.

Beezie Madden – Olympic Equestrian

2009-06-26T13:42:00.000-04:00

Bezzie Madden is a superstar in the Equestrian world. She is an Olympic athlete and was named the USOC Female Equestrian Athlete of the Year in 1989. She sent a great, long letter. In is she said:

Dear Mr. Kelsey,

Thanks for the letter. I hope I am getting back to you in a timely enough manor. I have been out of town for 7 weeks, so I apologize for the delay.

I think the best words of advice I can give kids is to try to find something in life that they have a passion for and try to make a goal or a career out of their passion. For instance, my passion is horses first and competition probably be second. I was lucky enough to have the talent to ride, but talent isn’t the only thing that makes me successful. Because I have a passion for horses and competition, I’m willing and happy to put the time and work into it that it needs. Working with horses means long hours and very few days off. They need constant care and scheduled exercise and training program.

Had I not had the talent for riding, I still could have focused on another career having to do with horses. Horse Show management would have still combined horses and competition. I could have been a teacher, trainer, veterinarian, chiropractor (for horses), or many other choices. Be creative – pick something you love to do and most likely you’ll be successful and happy in life. No matter what you choose, it’ll require hard work, lots of time and extra effort to be successful.
Hope this is what you are looking for. Glad to be of some help.

Sincerely,
Beezie Madden

Football Hall of Famer, George Blanda

2009-06-26T13:18:00.000-04:00

I always think that it is amazing when I get a letter from an athlete, someone who accomplished something without having to have an education mentions how important school is. This short letter is from Football Hall of Famer, George Blanda. In the letter he says, “Education – Hard Work, Discipline, Positive Attitude. Always “think win.” Learn from your mistakes and try not to repeat them. Practice, Practice, Practice = Luck. GB”

Jorge Garcia - Lost

2009-06-26T13:09:00.000-04:00

While we are talking about Lost, here is another letter from Lost cast member Jorge Garcia who plays Hurley on the show. He sent a great letter on his letterhead, and a signed picture. Also, he has a great blog that is kind of off the wall but gives a little bit of the behind the scenes of being famous. You can visit his blog at: http://dispatchesfromtheisland.blogspot.com/

Evangelline Lilly - Lost

2009-06-26T13:00:00.000-04:00

If you watch the TV Show Lost, then you know who Evangeline Lilly is. I wrote to her not long after the show came out and she sent back this great letter and signed picture. As a side note, many of the cast members from Lost have been good through the mail autograph signers. I’m not reprinting the text of this letter because Evangelline Lilly has great handwriting.

George Kell – Baseball Hall of Fame

2009-06-26T12:34:00.000-04:00

I was saddened to learn that George Kell had passed away. I was lucky enough to get to meet him once at an autograph signing, he was a very warm and gracious man. When I wrote to him he sent back this great letter as well as several of his baseball cards. In his letter he wrote:

Martin – I am honored that you would ask me to talk to your students – I have pictures of my days as a youngster and I wonder if I realized at the time if what an influence (our teachers) were on our classmates. We all have a great responsibility to our parents – our family and our fellow person – to be the very best example we can be. We will fail at times – but it just makes us a better person when we can get up off the floor – and know we are determined to be what we should be – “a leader – a person who sets the example.”

It’s not hard to do – It’s really easy and refreshing – and mke us proud of who we are.

I grew up in the “Great Depresson” of the 1930’s – money was hard to come by in my family – my father was a barber with limited income – but he had my mother and 3 sons all of whom worked at anything we could do – to help out. It planted in each of use – a sense of responsibility that we carry to this day. Be who you are – no more = be good – caring – love your parents and family – be in church – this is a must. I love you, George Kell

Maya Lin

2009-03-22T17:20:00.003-04:00

Maya Lin is a talented artist and architect. She is probably most well known for designing the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington D.C. When this was unveiled it was pretty controversial because of it's placement and in that it was significantly different from any of the other monuments or memorials in D.C. Having been to the Vietnam Wall, it is a very moving place. I can only imagine how my parents felt who lived during that time (Dad was in the military but didn't go to Vietnam). I've written to Ms. Lin at least a couple of times and I finally got a response. You can tell the letter took a while because it is addressed to my fifth graders, now I teach 7th grade. I think her words still resonate, even with older students.

In her letter she says, "To the fifth grade students of Manor Hill. I always loved school and feel that my studies have helped me so much in all my work. Find a subject that really interest you and go beyond what school required - it will help you and hopefully school will be something you really enjoy. Maya Lin"

For more information about Maya Lin you can visit her website at: http://www.mayalin.com/

Happy New Year and a Bunch of New Letters

2008-01-12T17:19:00.000-05:00

Over the winter break, I had a chance to send out a bunch of letters to people asking what they would tell kids. These letters have been rolling back in and I am constantly amazed at the generosity of people and the power of education. The group of letters I sent out this time had a decidedly historic twist. I always love the time right after I send out a big batch of letters because going to the mailbox gets so much more fun. Instead of the usual junk mail, bills, and the occasional magazine, I love opening the mailbox to find a letter with my handwriting for the address (I always send a self addressed stamped envelope) and occasionally there will even be a package. I hope you enjoy reading these letters as much as I have enjoyed receiving them.
The first letter I wanted to share is an amazing one. John F. Babcock was born in 1900! He was born in Canada and enlisted into the army at the age of 15. He is the last remaining Canadian World War I veteran. He is one hundred and seven years old! I wrote to him and didn’t know if I would get anything back. Within two weeks I got back a great letter that is shown below and a great picture of him holding an American Flag with a Canadian flag in the background. In his letter he says, “Dear Mr. Kelsey Love your country love your family and always be honest. Sincerely, JF Babcock born 7-23-1900” Staying with the military theme, I got a letter back from Charles Albury. He was the co-pilot on the airplane that dropped the second atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan. The plane was called Bockscar. Mr. Albury sent a great letter (the text is below) as well as two pictures that he signed. The first was a picture of the Bockscar logo and the other was a picture of his airplane. His letter said, “Dear Class: I was one of many who served our great country after being attacked. First of all I am an American who loves his country as many other in WWII. There is no country greater than ours. God Bless America CD Albury”

Another really cool military letter that I got was from Morris Jeppson, he was the weapons officer on the Enola Gay, the airplane that dropped the first Atomic Bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. Mr. Jeppson sent a really great letter where he even mentions the city I live in, Liberty. He says, “Dear Mr. Kelsey, I admire you for teaching your students American history and I respect your students for thinking about American history. The name of your city, Liberty, is the key word – Liberty means freedom – freedom of individuals and freedom for your country. Look back at your history and look ahead to make certain that you preserve your freedoms and protect the US in a world that is threatening them. And enjoy your lives ahead. Morris Jeppson” Everyone that knows me that I love science. That is one of the reasons why I really like this next letter. I wrote to James Russell. His name is one that most people won’t know but almost everyone has used his invention. He is the inventor of the CD. He sent a great letter that talks about invention. It is really hard to read so the text follows.
Hi students and Mr. Kelsey,
If you are a scientist or inventor, you may be able to disver something , or invent something that will help millions of people over the world. That can be very satisfying.
To be a scientist or inventor, you must study as much science, math, and history as you can – and you will find that these subjects will become very interesting.
JRussell
1/5/08
When I opened my mailbox last Thursday, I had several letters, a lot of bills, a magazine and a package. I couldn’t remember ordering anything, and then I saw the return address label. Patty Wagstaff is a stunt pilot. She sent me a CD, a signed folder/picture thing (shown below) and she sent an additional 20 more folders and stickers for my class. She signed her picture, “TO Mr. Kelsey’s Class! Follow the path that makes you happy and end up where you belong! Patty Wagstaff”

Baseball Players

2007-12-16T17:22:00.000-05:00

While I am on a baseball kick, I thought I would include a bunch of other random baseball players that I have gotten letters from.

Future Hall of Famer: Goose Gossage

Goose Gossage was an increadible pitcher for the New York Yankees. He is probably most famous here in Kansas City for giving up a homerun to George Brett. I wrote to Mr. Gossage and got this great letter back. My guess is that he will soon be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
To: Mr. Kelsey’s Fifth grade class,
Work hard at all you do. You will be rewarded for all of your hard work. We think good things, and good things happen. We thingk bad things and bad things happen, it’s that simple.
Good Luck
Goose Gossage

Art Howe
Art Howe was the long time manager of the Houston Astros. I wrote to him to ask him to sign a baseball card for me. (My wife and I are trying to collect the entire 792 card set of 2004 Topps and get them all autographed. So far we have over 200) Mr. Howe signed my card and wrote a short not to the students.
Kids,
Get your education!!
Art Howe

Pat Sheridan

Another project that I am working on is to get the autographs of everyone that was on the 1985 Royals team. That was the year they won the World Series. So far, I have a baseball signed by a big chunk of the team as well as baseball cards signed by two of them that have since passed away (Dan Quisnberry, and Dick Howser). I wrote to Pat Sheridan who was an outfielder for the Royals during that time. He signed my baseball cards and also sent a great letter. It reads:
Dear 5th grade,
The most important thing that could say would be hapy and thankful for what you have and strive to be the best you can be. Try to make a difference in someone’s life. Finish school and thank God for every day.
Thanks, Good Luck
Pat Sheridan

Carl Erskin

Carl Erskin was a great pitcher with the Los Angeles Dodgers. When I wrote to him back in 2001 he not only sent a great letter but several signed baseball cards of his own. In his letter he says:
Hello Martin and hello 5th graders –
You have been in the minor leagues so far in school – now you’re getting close to moving up to a higher classification – middle school then on to the high school – That’s the same way I went through baseball to get to the Dodgers.
Learn the fundamentals well – reading especially. When I got to the big league I found out the best players did all the little things very well – made few mistakes that cost a win.
Personally as a pitcher I had to make a decision on every pitche – making good discisions is alwo what you must do. Then just like a pitcher you must have good control – when you lose control (go with a bad crowd) you usually lose. Be a winner.
Carl Erskine
Dodgers

Michael Cuddyer

It is fairly rare to get a letter from a current major league baseball player. I wrote to Michael Cuddyer during spring training a couple of years ago and got a nice little letter back (and a couple of signed baseball cards). The letter says, “Play hard & dream big!”

Tom House

A couple of years ago my class wrote letters to baseball players as part of a big baseball unit that I taught. As a class we decided to write to Tom House. Mr. House had a very interesting career and is still very active in sports medicine. He was a very good major league pitcher and he was the guy that caught Hank Aaron’s 715th homerun. He was in the bullpen and when Hank hit the homerun it came right to Tom House. He later went on to become a pitching coach and worked with Nolan Ryan. In his letter he says:
Mr. Kelsey :
Thanks for the letter! It’s nice to know someone remembers me . . .
To answer your questions:
#1 My toughest hitter in the national league was Steve Garvey. In the American League it was Thurmon Munson.
#2 Catching Hank Aaron’s #715 was the most exciting part of my major league career. It got me in the Hall of Fame, Trivial Pursuit (the board game) and in many baseball books and readers.
#3 My hero when I was a 5th grader was (and still is) Sandy Koufax, a pitcher with the Dodgers.

Finally, if you have access to a computer check out my website http://www.tomhouse.com/ . There’s some neat stuff on it.
Good Luck –
Tom

Major League Manager Ralph Houk

Mr. Hauk responded to my letter with a great short note, one that is especially poignant today with all of the steroid scandals. He said, “NO drugs – Must set goals and work and practice what you want. Ralph Houk”

Baseball Player and Author Jim Bouton

Jim Bouton had a successful major league career with the New York Yankees and went on to write several baseball books, including “Ball Four.” He also helped invent the chewing gum Big League Chew. Mr. Bouton sent a very interesting letter, especially in response to me asking him what advice he would give to students. He said, “Do not look up to other people. In most cases they are not heros* They are simply people who have mastered a particular skill *some of them can’t even spell.” I thought it was really interesting that he made a spelling mistake and caught it and pointed it out.

Preacher Roe

Preacher Roe was an outstanding pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers. From his letter it sounds like he is uncomfortable giving advice but he has some good things to say.
To Martin Kelsey
I am not very good at these things. I would say live a good clean life. Try to find a goal for what you want to do and try hard and be sure you learn how to say no.
Best wishes to you and all your students.
Preacher Roe

Kansas City Royal Mike Sweeney

I have gotten a chance to meet Mike Sweeney on several occasions, usually late at night after a Royals game. He almost always comes out and sign autographs. One night I had an 8X10 picture of him that I asked him to sign to students. He immediately took the time to ask me questions about my class and thank me for being a teacher. He signed the picture, “To Kelsey’s Class Never lose sight of your dreams! God’s many blessings. Mike Sweeney”

Dal Maxvill

Former major league shortstop and general manager Dal Maxvill sent a great letter where he laid out what he would tell students in 5 points. He says:
I would ell your 5th grade students to:
1. Stay in school – make plans for college
2. Stay away from drugs – only “losers” do drugs
3. Get involved in sports and other school functions
4. Listen to your teachers – they are your “roadmap” to a bright future
5. Communicate with your parents – they are the best friends you will ever have.
My best wishes and good luck to all of you – enjoy life!
Dal Maxvill

Baseball Hall of Famers

2007-12-11T21:49:00.001-05:00

I had an opportunity (and a snow day) to get a few of my baseball letters scanned so I thought I would put a few of them up on the blog.

Monte Irvin

I am excited because I get the opportunity to meet Monte Irvin in January. He is signing autographs at the Iowa Cubs Fan Fest in Des Moines. I will be traveling up there to get his autograph. He sent a great letter to the students.
Dear Boys and Girls:
To succeed in life –
1. Learn how to read
2. Learn how to express yourself
3. Learn how to figure
4. Live by the Golden Rule
Sincerely yours,
Monte Irvin

Bobby Doerr

Bobby Doerr is a Hall of Fame second basemen who played with the Boston Red Sox. He responded to my letter with a great note that reads, “Think positively all the time. You can always turn something negative into a positive. Bobby Doerr”

Tommy Lasorda
Again, I had the opportunity to Meet Tommy Lasorda several years back when he was at the Negro League Legacy Awards. I can still remember watching him and Buck O’Neil telling stories. It was really a great night. I wrote to Mr. Lasorda way back in 1998, before I was a teacher (I was student teaching). He sent a great letter and it was even on Los Angeles Dodgers letterhead. You should be able to click on the image to be able to read the text.

Sparky Anderson
When I was a kid, I was able to get Sparky Anderson’s autograph on two or three different occasions. I was really happy when he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. He is a very kind and generous person. Mr. Anderson wrote a great letter to the students. In it he says:
Dear Kids
Just always remember life is wonderful. Don’t ever be afraid of it. We all have our ups and downs but really that’s the fun of the game.
But don’t ever forget these wonderful words my father taught me. The only thing in your while life that won’t ever cost you a dime and that is to be nice to everyone.
Sparky Anderson

Lee MacPhail

Lee MacPhail was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998 on the veterans ballot. He was a front office executive for the Yankees. He is one of the older Hall of Famers. In his note he says, “Enjoy school. Make Friends. Learn about your country, your town. Realize it is important to do well scholastically. Lee MacPhail”

Robin Roberts
I wrote to Robin Roberts several years ago and got this great letter back. I also had an opportunity to meet him a couple years back. It was pretty interesting. Usually when you go to a baseball card show the guys that are signing autographs come out, sign their autographs and leave. Mr. Roberts signed his autographs and then came out and watched the Chiefs game with everyone. They were showing it on a big screen and a group of 15-20 people had gathered around to watch. Pretty soon I look over and Robin Roberts had wheeled his chair out and was setting there watching the game. In my letter I had asked him what his favorite baseball memory was and what he would tell students. His letter says,
Marty –
Winning the pennant on the final day in 1950 against the Dodgers – for the Phillies.
Play different sports – Pick out your favorite and work hard.
Good luck – I’m enjoying playing golf and watching sports.
Sincerely,Robin Roberts

All American Girls Professional Baseball League

2007-12-10T19:03:00.000-05:00

If you have ever seen the movie, “A League of Their Own,” then you know the basic story of the league. During the war, women filled in for men and played professional baseball. I have had the opportunity to meet several of these great ladies and have written to several others. These women went on to become teachers, doctors, lawyers, moms, etc. after their playing days. They are honored in the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. If you ever get a chance to go to the Hall of Fame, be sure to spend a few minutes learning about these great ladies and their contribution to the game of baseball. Below I have included scans of the letters I have gotten as well as the transcripts of what they said.

Barbara Thompson

Martin Kelsey & 5th Grade Class,
1. Study hard to achieve the best you can in your school work.
2. Read, read, read. As they say “Read to Achieve.”
3. Find an interest in art, theater, or sports, or music.
4. Listen to the advice of your parents, and teachers.
5. E kind and considerate of your classmates.
6. Dream high as to what you want to do during your life time.
Barbara Thompson

Annastasia “Stash” Batikis

Hello Martin,
I’m sorry it has taken me so long to respond to you. I have been very busy taking care of an older brother who is on daily dialysis.
I’m not quite sure what I can contribute to your fifth graders. My rules to live by include, do the best that you can; listen and obey your coaches, teachers, bosses; be honest and trust worthy (these will take one a long way in any circumstance); treat others the way you’d like to be treated. Have fun, but not at the expense of others. Work hard, have a goal and go for it.
Back in the 40’s girls didn’t have the opportunities they have today – but we did have dreams and we tried hard to make them come true. Keep hanging in there – good things happen when you work for them.
“Stash” Batikis
Racine Bells 1945

Jean Smith

Hi 5th Graders –
One person can make a difference and I believe all 450 girls that played in the A.A.G.P.B.L. wanted to make a difference in they’er life so they took the gift that God gave them, worked hard and made they’re dream come true – anyone can do that if they follow they’er dream in what ever field they choose but above all stay in school and get a good education first!
Good luck to you all!
P.S. I’m sending you an autographed baseball card – my stats are on the back –
Sincerely,
Jean Smith

Marc Hill – Major League Catcher

2007-12-09T21:10:00.001-05:00

I also recently had the opportunity to meet former major league catcher, Marc Hill. He was signing autographs at a baseball card show in St. Louis and I asked him to sign a picture to my students. He was very happy to oblige. The interesting thing about this picture is that he is not the guy who is batting. That is Johnny Bench. Marc Hill is the guy catching, that is why he signed at the bottom of the picture. He signed the picture, “To Mr. Kelsey’s Class Keep Working Hard Marc Hill”

Brooks Robinson – Baseball Hall of Famer

2007-12-09T21:06:00.001-05:00

Over the weekend I had the opportunity to meet a truly special member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. 16 time Gold Glove Winner, Brooks Robinson. I have seen video of him playing and there has never been a better fielder in the game of baseball. Mr. Robinson is also one of the nicest guys you will ever meet. I wrote to Mr. Robinson a long time ago and got back a great signed picture that says, “Students your education is for a lifetime. Don’t forget it!!! Brooks Robinson.” I thought I would post this letter this week with a picture of me with Mr. Robinson.

Astronauts in Person

2007-11-19T20:11:00.001-05:00

In the last year I have had a couple of really unique opportunities. In July I got to spend some time with moonwalker Harrison Schmitt. He was attending a minor league baseball game to throw out the first pitch. He held a small, "press conference" before the game. I got to listen to him speak for about 45 minutes and I got to ask a couple of questions. The one below is what he would tell a class of fifth graders.

Then in September my brother called me and asked what I was doing the following weekend. I didn't have anything going so he asked if I wanted to go meet Jim Lovell from Apollo 13. Of course I said yes! He was the grand marshall of the NASCAR race at the Kansas Speedway. Again, I asked him what he would tell a class of fifth graders. His response is below also.

Julie Scardina – Sea World Animal Trainer

2007-09-10T21:30:00.000-04:00

Julie Scardina is someone that you may have seen before on the Tonight Show, or other news programs. She is an animal trainer at Sea World and is one of the people that take the animals around to help spread the word about conservation and animal protection. She sent three great things when I wrote to her. She sent a great letter. The text will be at the bottom of this post. She also sent two pictures of her with animals. The first is a picture of her with a seal that says, “A big hello to Manor Hill Elementary Students! Julie Scardina and Clyde” The second picture of her with a leopard that is signed to me, “Martin – A caring teacher. Education is the key! Thanks Julie Scardina”

Dear Martin,
Thanks for your note. I guess I have two thoughts that I would share:
1. Every great change in history has begun with just one passionate person and
2. Each small individual action can make a huge difference when multiplied by the more than 6 billion people on our planet.

Thanks for your passion to conservation!

Julie Scardina

Barbara Bush – First Lady and First Mother

2007-09-10T21:29:00.001-04:00

Barbara Bush is a very classy lady. Not only was she the first lady but is the mother of current president, George W. Bush. I think one of coolest things about this letter is that she went in and corrected it. My guess is that she has a form letter that she sends out for requests such as mine. A secretary prints it out and she sings it. Apparently the secretary had misspelled my name. Barbara Bush caught the mistake and corrected it. She then signed the letter and added “Happy Reading!” at the end.

Walter Mondale – Former Vice President

2007-09-10T21:26:00.001-04:00

If you want to see a storied political career, read the biography of Walter Mondale. He was a senator, vice president, ran for president, and was ambassador to Japan, just to name a few. His was one of the fastest returns I have ever gotten. I think it took about 4 days to get his response back. He sent a great letter and signed picture.

Shirley Chisholm – First African American Woman in Congress

2007-09-10T21:23:00.000-04:00

Shirley Chisholm passed away in 2005. She was an absolutely amazing woman. Not only was she the first African American Woman to serve in the United States Congress, but she was also the first woman to seek the nomination for President of the United States. She did this in 1972 and while she wasn’t nominated to run for president, she did get 151 of the delegates votes. I wrote to Ms. Chisholm a few years ago and got a really cool letter back. First, she had amazing handwriting. Second, she sent her letter on a photocopied page that had a picture of her on it. In the letter she says:

Dear Students:

You must take advantage of every opportunity available! Study and pay attention to your teachers who are preparing you for a successful adult. In whatever you do look only to God and Conscience for approval. Always aim high!
Shirley Chisholm

Robert Ballard – Rediscovered the Titanic

2007-09-10T21:22:00.001-04:00

Robert Ballard was the man that lead the team that discovered the wreckage of the Titanic. He has also been extremely involoved in finidng other ship wrecks throughout the world. I read a book by Ballard a couple of years ago and it was almost above my reading level. I think of myself as a fairly smart guy and a good reader but his book was hard. It was a really good book that talked about finding the titanic but he used so many words that I didn’t know. I basically had to read it with a dictionary by my side. He sent a short little note and an autographed picture. The letter says, “Study hard and follow your dreams! Robert Ballard”

Dr. Denton Cooley – Performed the First Heart Transplant

2007-09-10T21:19:00.001-04:00

This is another letter that I got when I was in college. Dr. Cooley performed the first human heart transplant operation in the United States in 1968. I wrote to him at the Texas Heart Institute and got a great letter back. He tells students to pursue a career in medicine. One of the great things about all of these letters is how closely they match to the person’s profession, or personality.

Jane Goodall – Chimpanzee Researcher and Wildlife Advocate

2007-09-10T21:17:00.000-04:00

Jane Goodall has led an amazing life not only in her research in Gombi but also in her travels speaking about conservation and the protection of the environment. I wrote to Ms. Goodall and she sent a great letter. It is very hard to read and written on the back of a Jane Goodall Institute postcard. The letter text is typed below.

Dear Martin Kelsey –
I would tell a class of elementary school kids how, when I was 11 I dreamed of I dreamed of going to Africa, living with animals and writing books about them. At the tiem Africa was “The Dark Continent” – far away. My family had no money (not enough for a ?? let alone a car!) Everyone laughed. Except my mother she daid – “Jane, if you really want something, work hard, take advantage of opportunities and NEVER GIVE UP you will find a way.” Kids – follow your dreams! (I’d also introduce them to the little book “My Life with Chimpanzees” ($5.00)
Jane Goodall

She also added another note on the other side of the postcard that said, “Did JGI send you info on Roots and Shoots? Call 1-800-592-JANE)

David Eisenhower: Son of President Eisenhower

2007-09-10T21:13:00.001-04:00

Have you ever heard of Camp David the presidential retreat? It is named after David Eisenhower, the son of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Mr. Eisenhower sent a great letter to the students It says, “Dear Mr. Kelsey – I would encourage members of the class to travel. They won’t do so during the school year but they can use the winter months to plan for summer. Europe is great but I recommend they ‘see America first’. David Eisenhower.” I really like this letter because I completely agree. I have been to Canada and Mexico but I think there are so many amazing things to see right here in the United States that I have no real urge to travel abroad. Even though the US has only been around for a couple hundred years, we have an amazingly rich history. I love learning about the local history of any place that I travel. You will be amazed what hidden gems you will find in the most unexpected places when you just look.

Mountain Climber: Tom Whittaker

2007-09-10T21:10:00.001-04:00

Not only did Tom Whittaker climb Mt. Everest, but he did so with only one foot. He was in a major car wreck and lost a foot. He still climbed Mt. Everest. His letter I think shows what an amazing individual he is. He says, “People that have abandoned their dreams will stand in the way of you achieving your dreams. Never ever abandon your dreams! Tom Whittaker the first disabled person to climb Mt. Everest May 27th 1989”

Former Secretary of State Alexander Haig

2007-09-10T21:06:00.001-04:00

Occasionally you will see Alexander Haig on the news, or read about him in the newspaper. He was the Secretary of State for President Reagan and was a figure in the Watergate era of American Politics. He sent a great letter talking about patriotism. He also sent a signed picture signed to me with Best Wishes. Every time I get a letter from someone I am reminded of the power of education and how busy these people are but they take the time to write a letter to a class of students because they know how important education is. Wow!

Nobel Prize Winner Peter Doherty

2007-09-10T21:04:00.000-04:00

Peter Doherty won the Nobel Prize for medicine in 1996. When I asked him what he would tell a class of elementary school students he responded by saying, “Science is about finding out. You discover things that nobody ever knew before. We spend our lives looking for new things, and don’t ever have time to really grow up and become boring.” Kind of an odd little letter but I think it is really interesting that he says that by being a scientist, you are never going be grow up and be boring. I think it is that thrill of discovery. I never get tired of seeing my kids discover something when they do an experiment. Even if I know how the experiment will come out, the look on their faces when they discover it for themselves is priceless.

James W. Christy – Discoverer of the Moon of Pluto

2007-09-10T21:02:00.001-04:00

Keeping with the space theme I wanted to put a letter on from the man that found the moon of Pluto. I wrote to him before Pluto lost its planetary status. He shared some insight on what it was like to discover the moon and gave some great thoughts to the students. An interesting side note, Mr. Christy also sent me his email address and asked a question about the address I had used to write to him. I tried my best to answer his question and we actually exchanged a few emails. He is truly a great gentleman.

Rocket Scientist Erich Engler

2007-09-10T21:00:00.001-04:00

Sometimes you make jokes about being a rocket scientist when someone does something that isn’t really smart. This letter is from a real rocket scientist and not just any rocket scientist but one that worked in Huntsville, Alabama with Warner von Braun, the father of modern rocketry. He sent a great letter talking all about the work that he did and what it was like to work with Dr. von Braun. Click on the picture to get an enlarged view to read what Mr. Engler had to say.

Ben Jones - AKA: Cooter from the Dukes of Hazzard

2007-09-10T20:55:00.000-04:00

I got the opportunity to meet Ben Jones at a car show a couple of years ago. Not only did he play Cooter on the TV show Dukes of Hazzard but he also spent time in the United States House of Representatives. When I met him he signed several things for me including this picture I took of the United States Capital. As he signed it he told me about getting to go up into the rotunda where most people don’t get to go and look out over Washington DC. He said the view was amazing. He signed the picture, “To Mr. Kelsey’s Class God Bless America! from ‘Cooter’ Ben Jones”

US General Tommy Franks

2007-09-10T20:53:00.000-04:00

In class I am having my students write letters to members of the armed services. I thought it would be appropriate to include a signed picture from four star general, Tommy Franks. He signed the picture, “for the 5th Grade Class Manor Hill Elementary – God Bless America Tom Franks”

Sister Nirmala

2007-09-10T20:51:00.000-04:00

I was reading the newspaper the other day and noticed an article about the new book coming out about Mother Teresa. In the article they mentioned Sister Nirmala, who had taken over for Mother Teresa at the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta, India. This reminded me of a letter I had gotten from Sister Nirmala when I was student teaching. I had written to her and asked her what she would tell my future class of students. She sent a really cool letter and added a note at the bottom that says, “Dear Martin, Thank you for your letter. I pray that you may become a real good teacher some day.” She also sent with the letter a small medallion that has a quote from Mother Teresa on it. No matter what your religion or beliefs, this is a really cool letter from a lady that has done some amazing work in dedicating her life to helping others.

Barbara Morgan

2007-08-13T22:19:00.000-04:00

This is a letter that I have wanting to put on here for a while and in the last week has gained an even more special place in my heart. Barbara Morgan was Christa Mcauliffe's backup. She has since become an astronaut and just launched on board the Space Shuttle Endeavor. I was actually a guest of NASA at the launch and got to see it from about 3 miles away. The launch was amazing, especially knowing that there was a teacher on board. To read about the launch, you can check out my other blog, The Room 42 Daily. I wrote to Barbara Morgan when I was in college and I think it is completely fitting that a teacher added notes to a form letter and added a special note at the end. This is absolutely one of my favorite letters in my entire collection.

President Jimmy Carter

2007-04-13T11:30:00.000-04:00

This is one of my absolute favorite political letters. Jimmy Carter is an amazing man. He has accomplished so much and worked so hard to help so many people. He has really done some amazing things after he was president. He is also a great author. If you ever have a chance to read one of his books, do it. You will enjoy it. I have his newest Our Endangered Values on my shelf at home waiting to be read. An interesting note about this letter, the signature is proably real and it is his full name which he doesn't sign very often. He typically just signs J Carter. The picture is most likely a preprinted autograph. How amazing is it that a former President of the United States would take the time to write a letter to a class of 5th graders!?! Once again, it shows how important education is.

Dale Jarrett: NASCAR

2007-04-13T11:25:00.000-04:00

I don't have a ton of letters from NASCAR drivers, or even from any kind of race car drivers but I got this one a while back. It is from Dale Jarrett, a really big name in NASCAR racing. The writing is a little hard to read on this picture. It says:

To the 5th Grade Students at Manor Hill Elementary.

Stay in school and work hard to be anything you want to be.

Best of Luck,

Dale Jarrett #88

Miscellaneous Astronauts

2007-03-28T16:03:00.000-04:00

In this post I thought I would put several pictures that I have received. These are all signed to my students and have different sentiments and comments to the class. Some of them are hard to read so I have listed who they are and what they had to say below.

Gerhard Thiele – To the students of Mr. Kelsey at Manor Hill Elementary: Your dreams are your wings!

John Glenn – To Mr. Kelsey’s Class Best Regards

Nancy Currie – To Martin Kelsey and Students: Your achievements can be as great as your dreams!

Skylab Astronaut: Owen Garriott

2007-03-28T15:26:00.000-04:00

This short letter is from astronaut Owen Garriott. He flew on two different Skylab missions. In his letter he says

"expect to be a high achiever

Get all of the education you can - - at least through college

Stress math and science

7/11/99"

To find out more information about Owen Garriott, click on this link: http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/htmlbios/garriott-ok.html .

Harper Lee: Author of To Kill a Mocking Bird

2007-02-20T22:39:00.000-05:00

My future cousin - in - law is reading To Kill a Mockingbird in school so I thought it would be appropriate to post this letter. Kind of an interesting letter from an amazing author. The full text reads, " Dear Students; Don't depend all that much on a computer. The lights could go off sometime and leave you with nothing in your head to fall back on. Good Learning! Harper Lee"

Buck O'Neil (1911-2006)

2006-10-07T17:20:00.000-04:00

Buck O’Neil passed away yesterday. It is a true loss. He was a class act in every sense of the word. I am very fortunate to have met him several times. The picture above was when I was in high school. I never walked away from him not smiling. He was always smiling, telling stories, hugging the girls, and signing autographs. I wrote to him one time and above is the response that he sent but more than anything on this post, I wanted to tell a couple of stories about him. I don’t think these stories are unique, I think everyone that ever met him has a story to tell.

I saw him after a Royals game several years ago. I was with a friend of mine who at the time was 10-11 years old. He had an old baseball he had brought with him and his glove. We went down and asked Buck to sign it. He took the ball and signed it but wouldn’t hand it back. He wanted to play catch so the kid had to go back several rows and Buck threw him a perfect strike.

The other story involves my fiancé, Sarah. Fergie Jenkins was doing an autograph signing to benefit the Negro League Museum. When we got there, Buck was there. We got his autograph but we also asked him if Sarah could get a picture with him. Everyone setting around started laughing and they all said that I might not get her back. Sarah went over to Buck and he put his arm around her and posed for the picture with a huge grin on both of their faces.

I am sad that he passed away but I am happy that I had a chance to meet him. If there ever was someone to look up to, Buck O’Neil was a perfect roll model. Buck, you will be missed.

Pat Neshek: Pitcher for the Twins

2006-10-06T10:20:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite responses. Pat Neshek is a pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. He also has a web site and is an autograph collector himself. His website is:
http://eteamz.active.com/PatNeshek/
When I wrote to him I asked him if he could send a baseball with a note to the kids on it. At the time he was playing in AAA so the baseball is an International League official ball with a great note that says,
“If you want something bad enough when you are young & don’t stop thinking about it everyday til you get older, your dreams will come true!!!”

A couple interesting things to point out, first, notice on his signature that he actually draws in the baseball seams in the letter P. Also, He is a submarine pitcher which is how I pitched in college. He is much better than I was. Pretty cool to have a letter on a baseball form a guy that is currently playing in the playoffs!

Female Pioneers

2006-08-13T13:24:00.001-04:00

These two letters I have put together because both of them are from women who were members of the Mercury 13 Gene Nora Jessen, and Bernice Steadman. Although they never went into space, they were part of a group of 13 women who went through intense astronaut training in the early days of space flight. There are several great books on this subject as well as several web sites which I have linked below.

Mercury 13

International Women's Air and Space Museum

Astronaut Clayton Anderson

2006-08-13T13:17:00.000-04:00

The next letter is from astronaut Clayton Anderson. In his letter he says:

You can be whatever you chose to be. . .
- Set your goasl high and work hard to attain them!
- Strive to do your best (not someone else’s) always!
- Help each other; harbor no “ill will”

Best Wishes!
Clayton Anderson
Grp 17

The picture he sent is signed, “To the Fifth Graders at Manor Hill Elementary School – Dream Big Dreams and work hard . . . great things can happen! Ad Astra! Clayto Anderson Grp 17 3-24-00”

Duane Graveline M.D.

2006-08-13T12:51:00.000-04:00

This letter is from a doctor and an astronaut by the name of Duane Graveline. His letter says:

To Martin Kelsey
And the 5th grade class at
Manor Hill 0 (please check out my website www.spacedoc.net)

Never in my wildest dreams when I was a fifth grade student back in the little Lane School with Iris Wheeler did I think I might become a doctor/astronaut. I had three kids in my class at the one-room school and Miss Wheeler taught me all eight grades.
From humble beginnings - .
Duane Graveline M.D.

The picture is signed, “Thanks for your interest, Duane Graveline, NASA astronaut, group 4, 1965”

Bob Feller and Juan Marichal

2006-08-12T17:07:00.000-04:00

This post is a little different in that it is not a signed picture or letter to students but actually a couple of videos of Bob Feller and Juan Marichal saying what they would tell a class of elementary school students. I recently met them at the Bob Feller Museum in Van Meter, Iowa. Click on the link below to view the video.

Bob Feller Video Link

Juan Marichal Video Link

Jack Nicklaus: Golfer

2006-04-28T14:42:00.001-04:00

Not a whole lot to say about this one other than check out the great letter from golfer Jack Nicklaus. Also if you haven't figured it out yet, by clicking on the pictures you can get an enlarged view of them.

Wendy Lawrence: Astronaut

2006-04-27T16:35:00.000-04:00

This is another of my favorite letters. This is one of the very first letters to my students that I received. I got this in 1999, when I was still in college. There are several interesting things about this letter. First, notice that she dated it as 7/2/59. I think that is her birthday, kind of odd. Also I received this letter a few months after I returned from a trip to Houston, Texas. I was there trying out for the Houston Astros and took a trip to Johnson Space Center. While there I got to see mission control in action since there was an actual mission in space at the time. It turns out that Wendy Lawrence was on that mission. Also, my second or third year of teaching I did an experiment with some seeds from NASA that had flown on the space shuttle. They were on the same flight as Wendy Lawrence, the same one I saw at mission control. Besides the letter and picture, she also sent a mission patch from that mission. Below is the text of her letter.

Dear Martin,

Thank you for your letter. I commend you on wanting to work with the young people of our country. They need to be surrounded by people who care about them.
Often I have the opportunity to speak to grade school students. I always tell them to stay in school and get the best education possible because a good education will open doors for them. Also I tell them to take care of their minds and bodies and to do so by not abusing alcohol or by taking drugs. I strongly encourage them to keep away from things that will keep them from being all they can be.
I hope that my comments will be helpful.
Sincerely,
Wendy Lawrence

Alan Bean: Moonwalker

2006-04-27T16:24:00.000-04:00

This picture is of moonwalker Alan Bean. He is one of only 12 men to walk on the moon. I actually had a chance to meet him and had him sign this picture to the class. Mr. Bean is also a very well known artist who has used his experiences in space as inspiration for his paintings. Check out his website at: http://www.alanbeangallery.com/

Robert Englund: AKA Freddy Kruger

2006-04-27T16:21:00.000-04:00

This is one of my all time favorite letters that I have received. Robert Englund is famous for playing Freddy Kruger in the Nightmare on Elm Street movies. Normally, this is not someone that you would think of as an inspiration to children. He sent the sketch of himself as Freddy and had a few words of advice. I always bring this one into my classroom around Halloween.

Chuck Yeager

2006-04-27T16:19:00.000-04:00

Since I am on the aviation theme, I though I would post a very interesting letter from Chuck Yeager, the first man to fly faster than the speed of sound. I love the stationary that this letter is on.

Scott Crossfield

2006-04-26T15:07:00.000-04:00

I thought I would include this as one of the first letters on this blog. Scott Crossfield was a test pilot. He was the first person to go two times faster than the speed of sound. Mr. Crossfield died recently in a plane crash. Here is a picture and letter that he sent to my class.

The text of the letter is:
Crossfield Credo:
Work hard
Decide what you want from life and
go for it!

Scott Crossfield

Welcome to Dear Mr. Kelsey

2006-04-26T14:42:00.000-04:00

Hello, and welcome to the Dear Mr. Kelsey blog. I teach fifth grade in Liberty, MO. I am also an avid autograph collector. When I was in college I started writing to celebrities and asking them what they would tell a class of elementary school students. I have amassed a collection of over 200 letters and pictures signed to my students. I am going to attempt to put many of them here for the kids and others to see.

I think it is truly amazing that people with incredibly busy lives are willing to take the time to share a few words with students. I think this shows the power of education. The letters I have received have gone from the touching to the hilarious. I hope you enjoy looking at these letters as much as my kids in my class do.

Thanks for stopping by!Mr. Kelsey