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When we were growing up in the 20' and 30's we had little entertainment
as we have today, but that never bothered my brother, Ernest Ulmer.
At the age of three he started pulling mother to the piano to help
him play. Throughout our teen years it was a battle to try to listen
to the radio because Ernest was always playing the piano. Every
spare minute of the day found him there rehearsing.
As a result Ernest made a career of the piano, studying and playing
in London and in cities in Europe after his discharge from the army
in World War II. He settled in New York, playing many concerts in
the Town Hall and Carnegie Hall. He taught piano at the Manhattan
School of Music there, and was head of the piano department when
he retired. He currently is retired and living in an assisted living
center in Lincoln, Nebraska and still plays when asked.
One vivid seasonal memory I have is the Opera Cream Candy he made
at Christmas time, which seems very appropriate in view of his musical
career. All of the friends and relatives of the Dawson Pennsylvania
Colony have enjoyed his specials at the Dawson Church and concerts
he has played in the community. He has played for several years
now the offertory at the memorial service for the Colony Picnic
Sunday in August.
Melt together slowly
¾ cup milk
2 squares of chocolate
2 cups sugar
Boil together to 228F. Flavor with 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 teaspoon
of butter. Let stand until cold. Then beat with a spoon until it
becomes resistant and creamy. Drop in round balls on waxed paper
and enjoy.
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