'Poon Board Abolishes Fools' Week Tradition

In an effort to prevent further difficulties between The Lampoon and the University, the publication has decided to abolish Fools' Weeks, it was learned last night.

The decision came following indication that the Administrative Board was to take disciplinary action as the result of continued excesses during Fools' Week, the traditional pranky climax of the publication's competition. The Lampoon's officers will see Dean Watson today, and tomorrow the Administrative Board will reveal its decision.

"Harmless and Responsible"

For several years the University has threatened action, and following last year's Santa Claus stunt and arrest, President James D. Stanley '59 wrote the Deans that henceforth a Lampoon board would guarantee that all amusements would be harmless and responsible. His successors, however, were until recently ignorant of his letter.

This fall's pranks included a cowboy-style gun-fight and other classroom disturbances, including the invasion of an Anthropology 1 class by a Poonie in ape-man attire. Julius Caesar was killed on the steps of Widener, and a flock of pigeons was released within the library.

The latter prank in particular stimulated fresh Administration interest, although the publication denies that these were official stunts.

Decision Unanimous

The full Lampoon board met last Friday and signed a statement asserting the collective responsibility of all members. Fools' Week was unanimously abolished, and with it all costumes, entertainments and organizational activities outside the building.

The decision was reportedly made without any direct pressure from the Deans, and was designed not so much to avert official action as to prevent further complications with the University.