I was pleased to read the largely positive article, “Bates Students Get a Look at Downtown L-A,” about the Bates College freshman tour that brought students through the Twin Cities. (Aug. 26)

As a Bates student and as a resident of greater Lewiston-Auburn, it was wonderful to hear students excited about this area. Unfortunately, the article was overshadowed by “Bates Rates Poor for Town-Gown Relations.” (Aug. 29)

The largely negative article emphasized strained relations between the college and the community instead of focusing on the ever increasing role Bates College is playing in maintaining and increasing the relationship between the two. Nothing was written on the public barbecues, the music by Lake Andrews or other public events, on top of the thousands volunteer hours that Bates provides yearly for Lots to Garden, Rebuilding L/A, and local schools assistance. As a student, I see effort put forth by staff and faculty to include Lewiston-Auburn in their events and planning, and vice versa.

On a positive note, Bates ranked 12th in the nation for academics and 10th for food. Yet, these accomplishments were overshadowed, and unsavory moments of the past were brought to light. Yes, it is important to remember the past, but in order to improve the town-college relations, people need to take a positive step forward and acknowledge the ever growing good that there is between L/A and Bates.

Melissa A. Simones, Greene,

Bates College Class 2006

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