Newton Junior College - Yearbook (Newton, MA)

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It is an ironic situation that so many of us should want to criticize our own generation for not having any life or spunk. In addition, our elders often wonder if we've forgotten how to enjoy ourselves, and in doing so only indicate that they still vividly recall the hectic 'roaring twenties' when Americans every- where went on one big party that lasted a decade. The truth of the matter is that we have no reason to be ashamed of our reticence and conservative out- look, for it is characteristic of the present generation to be just that way, as Carlos Baker, chairman of the English Department at Princeton, stated, in the light of present undergraduate attitudes, if a term were to be invented for this age, it would be the 'Age of Conso1idation. ' As we examine the social events of the year, we cannot help but notice with pride, the immense changes that have taken place since the first few weeks of college. The year began hesitatingly with a pretty self-conscious get-together Qbilled as the 'Snow Ball', and held at the Newton Highlands Women's Clubj after which the social life of the college began to wane, and almost faded out com- pletely, until suddenly there was a rash of Wednesday night parties at the home of Kevin Pheeney, avidly supported by the International Club.

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allowing questions from the floor before the hour ends, and thus we have a chance to be heard, which is taken good advantage of by the more vocal and bolder of us. Notable among discussions of this nature was a Panel of Americans, This panel was composed of representatives of major American groups, and was fitting testimony to the theme discussed, that all men can be brothers, And, indeed, if there is any theme which underlies our Orientation meetings, it is this very one, We gather together on these mornings to learn of things that have happened, that are happening, and that can happen,so that we may increasingly grow in our ability to understand and appreciate other men, whether they be our own classmates here at NJC, or people of distant lands. I i 27

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Flings and Things As the first signs of spring mud appeared around the campus, the Social Board began negotiating furi- ously behind closed doors for several days before fi- nally emerging, weary but triumphant, with a care- fully drawn up program which succeeded in disproving much of the rumors concerning the creative spirit of our students. It is significant to note that the spirit of the subsequent 'Spring Fling, ' held under conditions much the same as before, proved to be truly a re- freshing experience as compared with any social event up to that time. It was a real elbow-rubbing sort of affair, and lots of fun, and all were present, including Stevoreno andthe good Doctor who diligently took care of the punch bowl. The party at Birgit's, which followed a week later, was as pleasant a get-together as one could ask for, among the guests were Dean White and Chris Kohler, who presided over the TV set throughout the evening. It is perhaps this refreshed spirit that has been the most significant characteristic of our college year. lt seems that we have takena giant step in the right direction, and let us hope that in future years we will only be satisfied with that which is above the level of mediocrity. In so doing, we shall maintain that spirit of optimism, that watch- ful, careful spirit of consolidation that we have come to express so well this year in our social activities. '7 . I a, 3 Vigil, Y. 'x 29 5 A