Much of the communication among class members has recently been generated by feelings about the Middle East conflict and individuals’ attitudes toward the involved parties and other religious, racial, and national entities. All which I have witnessed, including those from John Hamer (who also published a column on the subject), Jim Frey, Bob Tannenwald, Dave Effron, and Rick Pabst, have expressed gratitude to Dartmouth for providing a social and academic environment of expanded understanding, tolerance, and activism during our attendance; and for now demonstrating a present-day model of handling rough confrontations with the same qualities. The aforementioned have maintained via email the perspectives and interactions they (and, in full disclosure, I) began as fraternity brothers in 1965.

In a related reaction, class committee members Bill Rich and Roger Witten created a letter on behalf of the class condemning calls for and acts of violence against Jews or any other group, which, after discussion with committee members and a bit of revision, was sent to the College administration. The statement generated grateful compliments from President Beilock and the chair of the board of trustees. See the letter and endorse it, if you wish, on the class website. More than 100 classmates have already signed on. Also on the site, learn about yet another arts legacy committee donation, initiated by Roger A. Anderson, as well as webinar plans for next year.

Attention Phi Delta Alphas and especially Joe Leeper: R.W. Queeney wants to hear from you. Former Chicago public defender Mr. Queeney and I had a fascinating exchange about his past as an underwear/liquor/cigarette ads model and as legal interlocutor for the likes of John Wayne Gacy. Space limits do not allow for details, but he’ll provide colorful elaboration when you contact me to complete the connection.

—Jack Hopke, 157 Joy St., River Ridge, LA 70123; (504) 388-2645; jackhopke@yahoo.com