By Larry Lashway

Five weeks in Russia on a federal government scholarship were spent this summer by Mr. Gustave Carlson, Russian instructor at Maine West.

The special program, available under the National Defense Education act, included a rigid five‑week course of study at Indiana university and five weeks in the Soviet Union. Mr. Carlson was one of 40 teachers participating.

During their five‑week journey, the group visited the cities of Moscow, Kiev, Leningrad, Stalingrad, and Rostov. About one hour a day was spent in studies, with the rest of the time open for touring.

As a fluent speaker of the language, Mr. Carlson had an advantage over most United States tourists in that he was able to talk with the Russians. He said that the people were all very friendly and loved to ask questions. He found that they were especially interested in the economic conditions in America.

"They wanted to know how much our shoes, suits and automobiles cost. When they found out we were teachers, they asked us all sorts of questions about teaching," related Mr. Carlson.

"Their customs are very different. For instance, a Russian will think nothing of changing his clothes on a public beach, but to show one's towel in public is just not done," he added.

Most of the cities that Mr. Carlson visited were very dusty. Quite a few of the buildings were new, but they were very poorly built. Many of them had nets around them to catch falling masonry.

Speaking about the accommodations the group received in Russia, Mr. Carlson recalled, "The food was good, when it was served hot, but usually we got it cold. The waitresses, of course, don't care what kind of service they give the customers, because they aren't allowed to accept tips. The hotel we stayed in was overcrowded, and facilities were poor. The entire floor had to share one washroom. Bedbugs were common, and box springs are unknown in Russia."

Mr. Carlson said that all the people he talked to wanted to assure him that the Russians want peace with America.