Help Santa

One would think a college that owns some 30,000 acres in New Hampshire, reveres the Lone Pine, and graduated creators of both the Grinch and Rudolph would have an easy time finding a Christmas tree to place on the Green. Not so, says Bob Thebodo, who as Dartmouth's grounds foreman is responsible for the search.

There certainly isn't a shortage of trees in New Hampshire. But there are very few prospects in the right place—a place accessible to a crane and tractor trailer. Right now Thebodo is in a bind.

While he prefers to have trees scouted out years in advance, this holiday season he has only one potential tree—a mere 30-footer. And what of next year?

Thebodo would appreciate hearing from you if you know of someone who can sell or donate the right kind of tree: a balsam fir or spruce, 30 to 60 feet tall, with a classic Christmastree shape. Call him at 646-2485 or drop him a note at Mackenzie Hall.

Over the long run, there shouldn't be a problem. Thebodo, a forester by training, has been systematically planting trees that will be mature for Christmases decades into the future.