Testimonial to "Amazing Mary"

How nice it was to read that wonderful article about Mary Arlin [ICQ, 1999/no. 4].

Although I wasn't a hard-working theorist in Dr. Arlin's class, her efforts with me did not go for naught. I am now the band director at Ernie Davis Middle School in Elmira. Throughout each school year I refer to the information I learned from her, and in my summer jazz studies class I teach basic theory. I appreciate what she taught me more than she could know. One thing I value more than any other tool I have is the ability to open up a piece and "hear it in my head." It is because of Dr. Arlin's faithful work with me in sight-singing that I have this ability.

I appreciate what the article said about her being a "stern upholder of traditional values." It is nice to know that in the world of education there is still someone who even has traditional values.

I'm reminded of a story from my freshman year. It was midterm time, and I overslept for Dr. Arlin's 8:00 exam! I rose at 7:55 and jumped into my clothes. Scott Kelley, my Terrace 12A roommate at the time, tells it this way: "I heard the room door close - and then heard the door three floors down close one second later." (I was in sprint mode!) Although I was sitting in class at 8:02, Dr. Arlin had already given the first question. It was on interval recognition - the thing I was best at.

Probably needless to say, I failed the test. But I learned a lesson!

Thank you, Dr. Arlin, for your dedication to your students, your art, and IC.

Mike Cuomo '82

Elmira, New York

Wedding Photos Redux

All of the reasons your editor cited for the decision to remove the names of people in wedding photos were understandable and well articulated. However, it was the wrong decision.

The ICQ needs to reallocate resources to free up the time and space needed to print the names of all IC-connected people in wedding photos. The wedding section is obviously a favorite of many alumni. We all appreciate the hard work and dedication of the ICQ staff and hope you will reconsider your decision regarding this issue.

John Piana '91

Charlotte, North Carolina

More Whalen Center, Please?

Thank you for the coverage thus far on the new James J. Whalen Center for Music at Ithaca College [1996/fall and 1999/no. 4]. As a current student in the School of Music, I realize full well the advantages this facility brings us as an institutional family.

I would, however, like to have seen more coverage in the ICQ of the new center after its grand opening. A series of photos of the new facility's features — specifically the McHenry Lounge, new recital hall, lecture hall, and several other key areas — would proclaim to the world that IC makes good on its word. We certainly have built, as promised, a "school of music second to none."

Keith David Reeves '01

Ithaca, New York

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