Recalling student-run radio at the U

Iworked at WMMR Radio during my undergrad and graduate student years. WMMR was the student-run radio station that evolved into today’s Radio K. In the early 1970s, our office and studios were in Coffman Memorial Union. Coffman was a busy, noisy, exciting place. Interesting people. Good friends. Lots of work going on and lots of fun. WMMR was fueled by that energy. When I finished a DJ shift at midnight, my walk from our third-floor studios to the parking lot took me through a Coffman that had changed. It was quiet, empty, and mostly dark. Like the building was taking a much-needed break before becoming that busy, noisy place again a few hours later. It felt like I was intruding on this peacefulness. Best for me to just keep walking before the building noticed I was there.

Bob Ernt, B.S. ’72, M.A. ’74
Minneapolis, Minnesota

Pining for the famous poached eggs at Al's

Reading Amy Carlson Gustafson’s article about Al’s Breakfast brought back fond memories of my graduate study days (1969-72), and a tear or two as well. After five and a half decades, I still remember the face of Al behind the counter. I long for his famous poached egg on a muffin with Hollandaise sauce. I shared memories with fellow grad students, who live in different U.S. cities, to stoke their memories. Kudos to Amy for the nostalgic article. Should she stop by Al’s, please have her share my wishes to Alison Kirwin for the continued success of the restaurant.

Dharma Dharmarajan, M.S. ’72
Mesquite, Texas

Playing cards in the basement at Coffman

In 1965 I spent most of my freshman year playing cards in the basement of Coffman Memorial Union. There were huge numbers of tables for eating, and plenty of microwaves, which were rather new at the time. I graduated nine years later, after three years in the Army and full-time jobs. I became a pretty good card player.

Bruce Falink, B.A. ’74
Coon Rapids, Minnesota

Coffman's warm embrace

My favorite memory of Coffman Union is the warmth and security it offered after walking across the Washington Avenue bridge on cold winter mornings.

Shannon Barie, B.S. ’99, M.S. ’02
New Ulm, Minnesota

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