1935

More or less fresh from our September mini-reunion, I find my chronic Zero-Mail Syndrome no particular handicap this time, in view of the interesting things to report from that pleasant occasion. (If you've never been to one, try it, you'll like it!)

One highlight of the weekend was the annual 1935 speech by a classmate's son or daughter. This one, entitled "A Stern Test of Liberty," was delivered by Alice Neff Lucan, daughter of our late Ed Neff. Alice spoke from a background of reportage, which was followed by a law degree and her present position as assistant general counsel for the Gannett newspaper/television network. In a very articulate and well-organized presentation, she examined the First Amendment aspects of the Review/Cole incident, the disciplinary actions taken by the College against the students involved, and the law suits subsequently instituted by those students against the College.

Without trying to recap her entire talk, I thought you might be interested in knowing that, from a strictly legal viewpoint (and without full knowledge of all the circumstances involved), she thinks it possible that the College may be in a vulnerable position on First Amendment grounds, if the severity of its disciplinary actions was influenced by the offensive content of the Review students' speech and editorial matter, in addition to their disruptive behavior.

She expressed a personal distaste for the Review staff and their editorial positions, but pointed out that the Constitution protects their right to speak "foolishly and without moderation," or resort to "an offensive way of expressing an unpopular attitude," so long as they do not resort to violence or obstruct college objectives. The speech, despite the somewhat unpopular positions and indigestible questions it set forth, was well received and earned Alice a standing ovation.

Other highlights of the meeting, which will probably be reported in more detail in the Tear Bag, but merit redundant mention here for .the sake of emphasis, were a) A1 Brush's exhortation on behalf of more Life Income Trusts (they sound like can't-lose deals for anyone with the available funds). We compare unfavorably in this area with several adjacent classes. And b) Don Radasch's suggestion that more of us consider participation in the Athletic Sponsor Program (he will be happy to supply details). One outcome of that discussion was a decision to provide an opportunity via the class dues notice to make a token contribution to the program as an alternative to full participation.

And that's my 500-word quota for this issue. Peace and love to you all all y'all.

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