1957

Two letters this month. The first writer objected to being mentioned in this column by a shortened form of his name that I and others remember from college days. He also complained that certain financial arrangements by the College transformed it into a competitor on his commercial turf.

The second letter, from Michael Lasser, said "Ten years later, I'm still talking about what a wonderful experience my 25th reunion was. But scheduling the 30th Reunion during the week kept me from attending five years ago. Now scheduling my 35th so, once again, I and my classmates who work for a living can't attend is offensive and condescending. Are reunions really for the rich?" Michael is giving final exams on Monday of our reunion and has to mark papers and award final grades by Thursday.

There's always a reason. Dave Orr told me reunions must be scheduled in the ten days between graduation and the start of the summer term, the only time that sufficient dormitory rooms are free to house alums. Just the young, 25th, and old reunion classes get weekend scheduling. If you can't come to Hanover in mid-week, you'll have to wait until our 50th.

Other issues affecting the College may strike you as having greater significance. But, in any event, the letters noted here reflect a level of disaffection by Dartmouth alumni that would have staggered the imagination a few decades ago. Phil Byers recently proposed a poll to determine "classmates' opinion regarding current 'issues' [and] . . . actions which the class might take to improve conditions or to give the ... Dartmouth community a better focus on its problems." What do you think?

I doubt that many in the class would dispute the general proposition that Dartmouth must evolve to stay relevant in a changing world. However, as I write this column, events in the Soviet Union are proving that some changes are better left unmade. If you object to things you see emanating from Hanover, you've probably got company. At the same time, I can tell you from my kids' experience that Dartmouth remains a very wonderful place and better, in some important respects, than when we were there. Also, consider that while there are big chains on the gates of Harvard Yard, lots of dorm rooms in Hanover stay unlocked.

If you can arrange it, I hope you will make it back for reunion. The 25th was great; the 30th was mellower; and the 35th should be better still. If you've developed any ambivalence, remember that a reunion is mainly a celebration of old times and a chance to catch up with old friends. Dan Goggin and BobMarchant will certainly organize a party you won't want to miss.

Now thinking about that first letter, I wonder if Hanny Mason would prefer to be called Harrington ...

Keep in touch.

Adam Block, 90 Tanglewylde Avenue, Bronxville, NY 10708