Adlai and Harry

 One of my early jobs after college was working on Adlai Stevenson’s campaign for President in 1956.  You may remember my talking about the headquarters on Washington Street in the building where atomic secrets were kept during WWII.

Looking back, I guess “I Like Ike” was unbeatable.  But then, we were filled with enthusiasm and hope. How could you do better than Eleanor Roosevelt showing up to shake hands with us all?

One of the perks of my lowly job was to be able to attend fundraisers featuring famous people and great food.  My favorite was one at which Harry Belafonte was the featured guest. He made a point of mingling with the “help” which included us and the people cooking and serving.  

When I was in college, I almost saw Harry at the Empire Room in the Palmer House downtown.  It was a group of housemates, celebrating a birthday, black and white. We had reservations, but were turned away.  I’m sure if Harry Belafonte had known he would have seated us up front.