Jilly Harned (a good communicator) was an avid participant in the rain-soaked mini (Columbia game) and was impressed by the bonfire and rendition of “Dartmouth Undying,” which she and Jack always loved. Joel Leavitt, on a quick trip to Cape Cod, Massachusetts, welcomed a great-granddaughter Demi. Prez Bob Kirby was impressed by the recent subject, “life support,” and Terri Carpenter (our best communicator) bemoaned the demise of his 17-year-old collie Casey. A very meaningful obit was sent on Joe Medlicott by “Toots” Reininger on his service in Bradford, Vermont.

Good news from Doug Smith that Meredith’s condition has improved and she is on the upswing. I have been doing some research on our class and find that 574 classmates appeared in the Aegis (not all classmates made an appearance therein); my estimate was 783 classmates, but I believe the total was 760. Entries in the classic 50-year book by Joe Medlicott and Jack Kent numbered 576 (with 184 obits).

I received a class directory in 2020 and have some information on about 70 remaining classmates that I would be willing to share with my readers. In light of this, I list the following (and will give you their addresses and particulars as of November 2020 if you email me): Ralph Amsen, Ken Anderson, Fran Austin, Bernard Batycki, Gerard Brenton, John Caldwell, William Carpenter, Phil Chapalas, Ken Clark, Richard Davidson, William Doe, Jack Elliott, Robert Farrell, Robert Ferguson, Donald Freund, Joseph Garofoli, John Greeley, William Greenhill, David Grinnell, and Donald J. Hall. I have telephone numbers and email addresses on most of the above.

A personal note: Your editor welcomes a holiday “whatever” in beautiful Belize and belatedly wishes you all a merry and a happy, which, by the time you read this, will have occurred.

We regret the recent passing of Alan G. Harquail Jr., Nelson “Nob” Newbury Hovde, and Joseph Medlicott.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369 5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

It was a wet, wet weekend for our class mini October 20-21 but the men in green weathered the storm and triumphed over the Columbia rascals, 20-9. The more important news is that our mini-reunion was as scheduled, starting on Friday at Tuck when Sarah Reynolds put together a wonderful dinner for us at the Tuck School with “Prez” Bob Kirby and Brownlee hosting and Joel Leavitt and Veda DeKoff, “Jilly” Harned, Stephanie “Toots” Reininger, Rebecca Ruggles and your scribe in attendance. We had a chicken delight and a few songs (happy 94th birthday to our class “infant,” J.L.) and a uke offering by that fool Ruggles. The game was attended in the rain by me and Rebecca, Victoria Hicks (daughter of my best pal, Ort ’49) and her beau, Gerard O’Connell. Those eschewing rain-soaked attendance viewed the game from the inn. This was followed by a dinner at Jesse’s with the Kirbys, Leavitts, and Ruggleses attending. (The College had its usual humongous bonfire on the Green.) We were not able to be joined by Doug and Meredith Smith (who were planning their usual wonderful dinner and evening at their Enfield, New Hampshire, home) because Meredith had physical restraints of a serious nature that prevented it. And, of course, we felt very keenly the absence of our wonderful Joe Medlicott, who passed away just weeks before. Got a call from John Schalles, who, as I recall, was a golf nut. He shared the same retirement center (Swan Creek Retirement) as Glenn Fitkin and was a good pal of Fred “Smiley” Remsen. A newsy note from Terri tells of Bill “Carp” Carpenter enjoying the raised garden beds he and his niece put in nine years ago. They both are enjoying a 17-year-old border collie with a litany of ailments. I am looking for news from those of you who are reading this. Fail me not!

I unfortunately report the following deceased since last issue: Glenn Fitkin and Joe Medlicott.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

Very sad news in that class giant Lee “Sak” Sarokin has left us after an injury he described in our last issue as “the bathroom floor came up and hit me!” (That’s Sak for sure.) He got a full half page in The New York Times June 25. Gentle reminder No. 3 for the mini-reunion October 20-21 (Columbia game). Jilly Harned’s grandsons’ fraternity graduation dinner and weekend featured 33 Cat in the Hat hats (nine of which were my loan). Tornado warnings and heat livened up an August family gathering for 57 (and a 17-year-old pooch) for Terri and Bill Carpenter, who are doing tomatoes and cukes in non-bending-over beds—and still hoping for a “major” ’50 reunion!

Joe Medlicott and “Toots” are doing the “Kendal Kick”—Joe is still working at his desk ready to teach his Osher course. We won’t have the gracious dinners at their manse, come our mini in October (as before), but Meredith and David Smith have promised us a get-together dinner on Saturday of our mini.

I’m not getting much support from my readers and notes of their doings, so I add some advice (once again) from my friend the Rabbit: “Be a good listener, eat plenty of greens, let your dreams multiply. Hop to it! Know when to be still, spend time in nature, don’t worry, be “hoppy.” (I need news!)

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

Just a jog: Our mini is October 20-21 (Columbia game). Joel (and Veda) Leavitt are back at Cape Cod, Massachusetts, until October. “Mo” Devoe participated in yet another Women of Dartmouth seminar and stated, “It is a terrific program.” “Toots” and Joe Meddlicott are moving into Kendal in Hanover so will not host planned festivities for our mini this year. My mention of a visit (and lunch) with Karen and Dave Taylor at Maplewood (Weston, Massachusetts) omitted that we were joined by Marge Nichols that day. Prez Bob Kirby and Brownlee attended a recent Dartmouth Club of Princeton event and were impressed with conversations they had with members of the class of 2025 (75 years later than us ’50s!). The Carpenters’ (new) pooch Casey (17 years old) replaced Lincoln and gets everyone out and about walking him. Doug and Meredith Smith attended a lecture at the Dickey Center. Prez and Brownlee attended a May 7 program featuring Mark Brzezinski ’87 (our ambassador to Poland) with an analysis of the Russian/Ukraine crisis (a program supported by the Dickey Center—and thus the class). Your scribe had a nice visit with Andy Oliver, who has been living at the Ithaca, New York, Kendal with wife Mary for the past 27 years. He’d welcome a call from any one at (315) 399-6763.

Jilly Harned is still enriching her bucket list with trips to Turkey and Alaska. We meet for the mini Friday October 20 at 100 Tuck and our contact is Liz Nunez at (603) 646-9113. We send condolences to families of class members deceased since last issue: William R. Sapers, William Balderson, Cmdr. Frederick “Fritz” K. Rubins, Aaron B. Stevens, M.D., and C. Curtis Dunnavan.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369 5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

This is a reminder of class mini October 20-21 (Columbia game), with the usual festivities in Lyme, New Hampshire, at “Toots” and Joe Medlicott’s. Glenn Fitkin (fitkingljr@gmail.com, 419-491-8650) writes of John Schalles, his next-door neighbor who still plays a little golf! Joel Leavitt and Veda are back in Florida until June 7. He’s hitting a few golf balls and got his license renewed to 100! I had a nice visit with Dave and Karen Taylor (and Marge Nichols) at Maplewood in Weston, Massachusetts. Dave was attired in a Dartmouth green sweater and we had a nice lunch on the veranda. Toots reports Joe was hospitalized but home now; their future plans include Kendal, but not for a while. Terri reports Bill “Carp” Carpenter had a mishap with his dog but is okay now.

Victoria Hicks (daughter of Ort ’49) reports the John Sloan Dickey Fund is at $770,276. “Jilly Bean” Harned spent five days in New Orleans with a church group and comments on an amazing celebration of St. Joseph’s Night. Joan Willett reminds us of the green derbies husband Wally, Russ Chase, and Jim Martel wore as the “Terrible Trio from the Delt House.” (They took three coats of paint!)

Lee Sarokin fractured his shoulder and hip and swears “the bathroom floor came up and hit me.” Quent Kopp ’49 writes of pal King Kenny living in Henderson, North Carolina. Quent says to give King a call “and ask him to tell you his ‘It’ll be there, Green Key’ story.”

We regret the passing of William Sickel, M.D.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369 5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

First and foremost, prez Robert Kirby reminds us that we have a mini-reunion coming up in October. It is Homecoming Weekend, I believe, which consists of the bonfire on Friday night, October 20, with a dinner at Tuck-Thayer at 5:30. There will also be some fearless football vs. the Columbia Lions on Saturday, October 21, with what’s getting to be a traditional feast at “Toot” and Joe Medlicott’s camp in Lyme, New Hampshire.

Mo DeVoe, who is becoming one of my most loyal and frequent contributors to this column, reports that the Dartmouth Coach is still running from 42nd Street in the Big Apple, as she was there having lunch and saw it! Mo also reports that the “Women at Dartmouth” series she has been attending is a real winner. Close pal “Skip” Knudgen reports that his pal, Brad Richardson, a fabulous track man in his day, is using a walker now. I can remember back in our salad days (freshman year!) Don Hall, Dick McSorley, Terry Guider, and I were running track. All of us were milers and all three had better times than I did. Knowing they would all improve and I would get no letter, I opted out of organized sports and did the musical route (Glee Club, Green Collegians) instead. Your scribe has been spending most of February in sunny L.A. with a pal of my daughter, Rebecca, and that is the way to go to escape the blooming snow. (I do need more news from you; fail me not.)

I had a friendly phone call from Andy Oliver, who lives at 936 Savage Farm Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850-6504. He would be happy to hear from any classmate at (315) 399-6763. I plan to go calling when next I visit my daughter in nearby Aurora.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369 5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

Answering my plea for some filler for this issue, Joel Leavitt—our class baby (youngest member)—modestly announced he was selected to be an astronaut for the next moon mission, bought out Musk from Twitter for $10 billion, is starring in a movie with Taylor Swift, and is the next Patriots quarterback.

Bill and Teri Carpenter replaced long-loved Lincoln with a 17-year-old border collie (Casey) that is deaf with limited eyesight and gets the family out and about with six to eight walks a day!

Joe Medlicott is working on his men-only Osher class for spring “with a big snow in sight.“ Mo Devoe has attended three Zoom meetings (organized by Dartmouth women) and highly recommends them.

Prez Bob Kirby and Brownlee were shocked to be talking with members of the class of 2025 at a recent Dartmouth Club of Princeton, New Jersey, meeting: “seventy-five years later than us!”

And Jilly Harned spent June with Julie, granddaughter, and daughter-in-law in Greece; sailed the Dodecanese Isles near Turkey; and did Squam Lake in July (revisiting the scene of Jack’s ashes), Alaska in August (Denali Park and Fairbanks) dog sledding and rafting, San Francisco for turkey day, and highly recommends airport wheelchair (I concur). Her bucket list is realized!

Your scribe is spending time in Aurora, New York, with oldest daughter Rebecca, who lives on Lake Cayuga. I am writing this column five days before Christmas and wish you all a good ’un.

Regretfully we note the passing of Richard H. Peterson.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369 5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

Wonderful double-header of a mini thanks to Stephanie “Toots” Reininger and Joe Meddlicott September 30 to October 1, when we (Doug and Meredith Smith, Joel Leavitt and Veda DeCoff, “Rusty” Rodriquez, Bob Kirby and Brownlee McKee, and moi) enjoyed two classic feeds chez Toots (with an assist by Jessica). Joe and Toots give us news of the Piermont, New Hampshire, house for sale and their activity in the Osher class with three classics: The Awakening by Kate Chopin, A Lost Lady by Willa Cather, and House of Mirth by Edith Wharton. Joe reminds us that our major reunion is far away and the minis are really a chance to close ranks with each other and that those living nearby should come and enjoy. Lee “Sak” Sarokin tells of another of his plays—his 13th (dealing with transgender sports competition)—all started with great encouragement by Frank Gilroy. Note: Sak remembers the gig when he and Frank played with the Bop-Tet in Paris! Bill “Carp” Carpenter chimed in with his preference for day games in light of the fact the game for our mini was a night game!

Next year our mini is October 20 to 22—Homecoming. We get to march (and lead?) the parade. A note from Dave Steinberg bemoaning the loss of Dave Hitchcock last month and the fact that they two were members of the Far Eastern group in Washington, D.C., on policy issues. Doug Smith writes of fraternity mate Mal Hill (and wife of 61 years Adrianne he met 61 years ago singing choir), who led the Kappa Sigs in the fraternity hums. They are now living in Buckhead (Atlanta). Joel Leavitt writes of sciatica (no golf or 10s now) but exults in the fact that all three of his grandkids are now married, one a master chef who catered his own wedding, cooked with James Beard in N.Y.C., and ran the No. 1 restaurant in Jackson Hole, Wyoming!

Sadly, I regret the passing of the following class members Robert D. “Killy” Kilmarx, Elliot R. Loeb, David J. Hitchcock Jr., Richard H. Peterson, and Harry Van Benschoten.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369 5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

Bill “Carp” Carpenter summed it all up with his feeling that night games have limited appeal for our class, mirrored by our prez, with only Joel Leavitt and your scribe planning to attend the upcoming night Penn game at our mini this fall, September 30-October 1. In this light, the touchdown cymbals and Dr. Seuss-style cats-in-the-green-striped-hats may pass into obscurity. However, Joe Medlicott and Stephanie “Toots” Reininger are still planning a delightful onset to our weekend on Friday—stay tuned. Joe Medlicott reports his Piermont, New Hampshire, house is up for sale but he is still teaching his Osher class on campus—classics by Cather and Wharton. Joel Leavitt reports a bout with sciatica that limits his tennis and golf, but he and Veda DeKof will still be with us for the mini. Joel’s “kinder”—the star of which, Mathew, a master chef, catered his own wedding—are now all married. Prez Kirby has phone numbers of David and Karen Taylor, who have moved to Weston, Massachusetts, from their New Hampshire home. On a more personal note, I lost my 97-year-old brother, Dan ’46, in July. I’ve been spending time riding my bike four-plus miles on one of our local (marvelous) rail-trails that run through Concord, Massachusetts.

It’s a short column this time. Looking for news bits for next time: Help!

Regretfully, we note the passing of Elliot Raymond Loeb, Tu’51, and Marvin R. Kohl.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369 5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

I had a nice visit on my way to our “Mouse House” in Kennebunkport (Cape Porpoise), Maine, with classmate Nob Hovde, who is doing comfortably well at Wentworth Senior Living (after being emergency flown there from his abode in Naples, Florida). I played a few Lehrer ditties for him. Nob can be reached at 346 Pleasant St., Portsmouth, NH 03801; (508) 246-0947; cell (613) 558-8111. Got a hilarious email from “Da Prez” Bob Kirby called “Bull Fight Symphony.” (Have Bob send it to you—it is well worth the effort.)

I got a nice note from Bill “Carp” Carpenter with some College “old books, records, and remembrances” of his Dartmouth dad and uncle. He won’t be coming to our fall mini but awaits our 75th. Don’t we all, indeed!

Bob questioned dropping the Indian name of the football team, which came up at a board of trustees meeting at which our Bob “Killy” Kilmarx was instrumental thereof and later mirrored by many changes across the United States. Joe Medlicott gives me a jingle now and again with news (some good, some sad) about classmates he is in touch with. A little bit of parental pride here: My middle daughter, Molly, is instrumental in performing with and promoting several “porch feasts” around the Boston area. She accompanies and sings with two others in a neat trio that also has appeared in Aurora, New York, Kennebunkport, and MIT.

Our condolences go out to families of John C. Oakley and Edward W. Noyes.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369 5879; smileytmr229@gmail.com

There is a change for the mini this fall: It was October 29 and is now Friday, September 30, to Sunday, October 2, with a game against Penn October 1. This and those minis that follow can be a “meaningful mini for many” (do you like that alliteration?) as our next major reunion, the 75th, is not until 2025. So get your ducks in a row and come on up! Prez Bob Kirby (and Brownlee) are booked for a tour to northwest Australia for a full solar eclipse April 20, 2023. (There will also be a full solar eclipse April 8, 2024, crossing Mexico and the United States from Texas to Maine. They plan to be in Seaside Mazatlian, Mexico, with 20 friends. Anyone considering joining them, contact Bob.) Tommy (spouse of Chuck Solberg) says she has 27 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren! Wow, can anyone break that record? I expect “Carp” and Terri would give her a run for the money! Joe Medlicott writes of his “classic downsized move,” emptying Piedmont House to sell, along with his car—vast relief. His Osher memory class is going well. Stephanie “Toots” Reininger is taking a virtual Osher course on “How to deal with difficult people,” of which Joe says he is not one. He closes with, “Happy spring.” Nob Hovde in his new digs–Wentworth Senior Living, 346 Pleasant St., Portsmouth, NH 03801—would welcome an email from any and all at nobhovde@gmail.com. You can’t keep a good (drummer) man down: Lee “Sak” Sarokin just finished writing and producing (at 93) his 13th play and drums in a newly formed 13-piece band (with a lady singer yet) featuring Ricardo Rodriguez. Sak says, “A new piano player just moved in and we plan to swing!” My doctor, who is retiring back to Hawaii, remembers well our own Dr. Cal Sia, who enjoyed a very outstanding reputation on the islands and beyond. Victoria Hicks (daughter of roommate and best pal Ort ’49), our contact in the John Sloan Dickey Center for International Understanding, keeps us abreast of 1950-sponsored events and lectures, such as the recent April Hanover Inn event featuring ambassador Bisa Williams, acting deputy assistant secretary of state for western hemisphere affairs.

Once again I end this column with the demise of three classmates: Robert B. Shnayerson, Richard W. Griffith Jr., and John H. Weber.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Prez Kirby tells me that he and Brownlee have had their fourth virus shot: good idea! There was an interesting article in the January/February issue about John Caldwell’s son, Tim ’78, who was a four-time Olympic contender. I got a comeuppance of late when I realized Warren Daniell ’48 (with whom I briefly ran track) resides in Newbury Court near here in Concord, Massachusetts. He’s on my to-do list for a future “jaw.” My doings include a splendid trip with my eldest, Rebecca, to sunny and warm L.A. for seven days in February. Lee “Sak” Sarokin writes, “Our chorus has revived itself” and Sak is the designated drummer—drums brought out of storage “after a two-year sleep.” After my plea for newsy notes, Jilly Harned writes: “This is turning out to be my year of traveling, accomplishing two of my bucket-list trips to Greece and Alaska. Please pray that another virus doesn’t rear its ugly head.” Godspeed, Jilly. Our peripatetic former longtime newsletter scribe, jaunty Joe Medlicott, is at it again! He will be teaching his memoir course for Osher at Dartmouth beginning in early April. He has taught this course for three decades and is still going strong. The 50-year book that Joe produced and edited (along with Jack Kent) is my bible to this day. Nob Hovde writes: “Long story, quick version: I went down for the count and was resuscitated by EMTs; then emergency room, regular hospital, rehab in Naples, Florida; then a private jet with two pilots at 4,000 feet for three hours to an assisted-living place in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It’s an upscale place—the kids won’t tell me how much it costs—and my daughter-in-law decorated it with photos from my Naples bedroom and upscale furniture. Nice! Call anytime on my cell, (508) 246-0947.” I got some good news from my email plea of late. Any of you reading this (and you all do), please keep the news coming. Two classmates have left us: Robert “Bob” J. Misery and Peter Brown Nottage.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Turkey Day was special for me: I had all three daughters, Rebecca, Molly, and Dede; granddaughter Rada; Big Brother of 55 years Eddie Neal and his bride, Elvy; and my 97-year-old brother Dan ’46. What a day it was!

Lee “Sak” Sarokin sent me a Wynton Marsalis tentet email with Vince Giordano on a number called “Hotter than That.” (I had to get a new computer after!) I caught the end of the Dartmouth-Brown blowout on TV, the game in which we tied the Tigers for the Ivy championship with same number of games won (one lost). But since we beat the Tigers, should we not be sole champs?

Joel Leavitt sent a fascinating study of the “Silver Bridge Disaster” of yore, 18 minutes well worth having Joel send it to you. One of our most senior members, Joe Medlicott, has joined the “ticker clicker” club with his pacemaker. He is looked after by his nearby (in Piermont, New York) son and pal Stephanie “Toots” Reininger. Dave and Karen Taylor have moved to nearby Weston, Massachusetts, to be near a son, an Episcopal priest. Being a lifelong tennis maven, your scribe gave pickle ball a try of late and have to report ’tis not for me. I’ll stick to bike riding four and a half miles every few days.

Bill and Terry Carpenter report the birth of their 18th great-grandchild! (Can anyone top this?)

Newly minted treasurer Doug Smith reports that Meredith has been appointed to the N.H. Lakes Management Advisory Committee, which advises on lake issues such as public access and conservation. This arises from her work to establish a public park on the shore of Lake Mascoma in Enfield, New Hampshire. And lastly Joel gave a Dartmouth flag to Hila (Mrs. Rick Lyman ’60) and sent out a howler of an email on Charlie Chaplin to 48 others (if you didn’t get it, have Joel send it along—well worth it).

We offer condolences to the families of recently deceased classmates William “Ben” Miller and Harold “Bud” Bray.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

If you are reading this (and were not in Hanover October 8-10) you missed one terrific mini. It started at Jesse’s restaurant on Friday night with Bill “Carp” Carpenter, “Prez” Kirby and Brownlee McKey, Doug and Meredith Smith, Joe Medlicott and Stephanie Reinenger, “Jilly” Harned, Joanie Mcilwain, Joel Leavitt and Veda DeKoff, Rebecca Ruggles, Victoria Hicks (daughter of Ort ’49), and your scribe. The dinner was followed by a very spirited parade led (we were right up front!) by the touch of class (clad in the Dr. Seuss Cat in the Hat fedoras): Joel, Bob K. and Brownlee, Carp, Rebecca and Vicky, and some weirdo strumming and plucking a banjo, singing Dartmouth songs unending all the way through town. It was a hoot and a half! Saturday was statement time at the splendid game (the team’s fourth win, 24-17, in overtime) with periodic cymbal clashes and Dartmouth songs with banjo unending. Yes, indeed, we made yet another statement. Attendees were Carp, Kirby and McKey, Joel, Jilly, Joanie, Becky, Vicky, and me. Saturday night was the traditional banquet, this time at the Norwich (Vermont) Inn with the usual cast: Joe, Stephanie, Joel, Veda, Carp, Doug and Meredith, Joanie and Jilly, “Rusty” Rodriguez Harlow, my Rebecca, Bob Kirby and Brownlee McKee, and guest Ann Hartman. Could this be topped? Yes indeed, with Doug and Meredith doing Sunday up par excellence with a killer brunch at their attractive lodge in Enfield, New Hampshire. Joe and Stephanie, Joel and Veda, Bob K. and Brownlee, Bill Carpenter, Rebecca and I (very happy houseguests for the weekend) were all well-fed; truly a delightful way to end a delightful weekend. Our next mini will be September 30 to October 2, the Penn game. Our 75th is sometime in October 2025.

We have lost yet another classmate, Frederick W. Haubrich.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

I’m afraid that when you read this column you have either been to our mini (October 8-10) or missed it for sure. Rebecca (my oldest) and I are looking forward to staying at the wonderful “lodge” Doug and Meredith Smith have on the lake over in Enfield, New Hampshire, and, of course, meeting up with all those who took president Bob Kirby’s many suggestions in previous issues to come to the mini. (We were “Covid-ed” out of our 70th and what was to be our 71st!) The College is offering us our 75th—yah sure! Jilly Harned sent a perfectly lovely glowing description of Jack’s service on Squam Lake with 21 family, granddaughter Clare playing the Lord’s Prayer on her violin, and the Aires singing “Dartmouth Undying.” (I’ll send you a copy of same). Great note from Dave Steinberg on his essay on the “longevity of military rule in Myanmar (Burma),” published by the Institute of Southeastern Studies in Singapore in April after the coup. He is also wishing good health and pleasant memories to all. Bill “Carp” Carpenter’s note tells of spending five days with his family (all 22.5 of them!) at their shore house in Rochester, New York. His great-grandson will apply to Dartmouth this year and Carp’s son, Bill, plans to join us at the mini. Still getting some good notes from “Nob” Hovde, living the good life in Florida, one with a query about Pete Nottage out in Hawaii. Prez Kirby writes of college plans for a “proposed terrace in front of Dartmouth Hall. Can this be? It serves no apparent purpose.” I concur. Joel Leavitt (a good news contributor) has sent along some great sayings and pictures when he isn’t working on his memoirs! A late memo from Joe Medlicott says that Stephanie (“Toots”) is planning another reception at chez Elle for our mini. I have a note on the passing of Allen Barnard Wrisley III.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

The bad news first: Our vaunted 70th has passed us by two times (thanks to the damn Covid) and so the College is offering a 75th. Our prez is strongly suggesting we make it to Hanover for a well-attended mini October 8-10; make your reservations now (no masks required)!

Joel Leavitt has been very active in the email area with some great pictures and a recent treatise on his view of this mixed-up world we live in (well worth reading and digesting).

John Caldwell writes a fascinating note about the U.S. women’s cross-country ski team. It dates back to 1966, when he and Bob Tucker were at the Nordic World Championships in Oslo. It is quite long, and I stand ready to send it along to those with interest. John “Swede” Swenson writes, citing his knowledge of the original Chicago (B4 1700) and that he has been able to figure out why every other historian has been wrong and can show where the original “Windy City” was. If it was easy, somebody would have done it long ago, but the job was left to a Dartmouth ’50! He reports his “garlic crop is looking pretty good.” His motto: “Don’t take yes for an answer.” Jilly Harned is busy with a redo and updating of Stone Ridge and planning for Jack’s memorial service. Tom Warner (who needs a magnifying glass for our notes!) has a very colorful writeup in Joe Medlicott’s yearbook (a must read). Tom, a good man indeed! I treasure to this day a wonderful CD from the wife of Ray King put together by his two sons called Big Ray Sings. Now a personal note: I did the “ticker-clicker” (pacemaker installation) routine three months ago. If they can only do such a miracle with my Dumbo ears, I’ll be ready for 10 more!

Gone but not forgotten are G. William “Bill” Streng, John David Vogel, and Alan “Al” Parsons.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

The most recent bad news is that our 70th (which was postponed to our 71st) has now been postponed to our 75th! Our fearless prez, Bob Kirby, and some of the rest of us do not want to wait ’til then. Bob has proposed a mini-reunion the weekend of October 8-10, so save the date—more coming.
We have had an interesting piscatorial thesis proposed by Joel Leavitt, do ask him to 
elucidate (joeleav@aol.com), it’s worth the effort. I received a nice note from Peter Kilmarx commenting that Bob “Killy” is doing well at his nursing home in Verona, Pennsylvania, and is sending “warm wishes to his beloved classmates.” Terri and Bill Carpenter have had snow and then some and report the loss of their “beloved Lincoln,” a much-adored canine pal of 14 years. (I can relate to this with the loss of Ruffy, my constant pal and bedmate of 10 years, in December.) I got a nice note from Bob Jackson ’49 regarding roommate Don Krueger and hallmate Lowell Thomas Jr. (When his dad came to town he would treat them to dinner at the Hanover Inn and a fascinating evening of his many years of broadcasting.) Lee “Sak” Sarokin is busy writing plays a plenty and boasting of a newly purchased drum set he uses as percussionist for an all-women’s choir. (Margie walks three miles a day without him!) I enjoy to this day a CD titled Big Ray: A Grandfather Sings that Ray King’s Joan sent me years ago—a treasure I play quite often. A nice note from Dave (and Lee) Hitchcock reported that, after 25 years of foreign service in Israel, Japan, and Vietnam, they are planning to come to our reunion. Lee is living in Maryland and summers in New London, New Hampshire. News and a note from Glenn Fitkin at 93 tell me he is very much alive (his demise mistakenly reported previously), still walks, and would welcome a call from whomever. We have heard of the passing of classmates Richard “Dick” Johnson, John M. “Jack” Newkirk, John D. Vogel, Alan “Al” Parsons, and G. William “Bill” Streng. That’s a wrap for the nonce.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Some news of passing import: Our prez, Bob Kirby, has scheduled a mini for Homecoming Weekend, October 8-9 (Yale game). Let’s hope the Covid craziness will permit same.

I got a great picture of Bob “Killy” Kilmarx recently from himself, now posted on the wall near my desk. I’ve been getting some comic emails from Kirby. It appears that Bob and Brownlee are (or were?) planning a 10-day Baltic cruise trip to take in Copenhagen, Poland, Lithuania, Finland, and “three days in St. Petersburg” for August and were planning a “ski thing” in the Colorado area for end of March (must mean 2022!). Another good communicator, Terri Carpenter, notes a foot of snow and minus-30 temps for what seems days unending. I also received a sad note regarding the passing of Lincoln, their rescue pooch of 14 years (to which your scribe can relate: I lost my beloved Ruffy, a shih tzu of 17 years who slept with me every night, in December).

Jocular” Joel Leavitt, our class baby, writes complaining of my esoteric culpability and comments on what seems great health with tennis three times a week and golf “to boot.” He hopes to make Cape Cod, Massachusetts, this summer and remarks that he and Veda (DeKof) are facetiming great-grandparents at last! Joel is doing his memoir (in same remarking that he beat me in tennis way back when—no way, Jose!). Joel and Veda have gotten their first shots (seems to be a conversational comment for many of us). Another proficient contributor is Lee “Sak” Sarokin, very much with it out in California. Besides sending me great video clips of Blazing Banjos, he is embarking (“knee deep”) on a second career, having written nine plays and keeping current with things judicial with articles in The San Diego Union-Tribune tackling such issues as immigration, free speech, etc. His initial fame was when he freed former middleweight boxer, Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, from 19 years of prison in 1985 for a triple murder he did not commit. The man is a 90-year-old dynamo!

And now the sad usual litany of comrades in arms who have passed: Richard J. Best, M.D., Donald J. Meeneen, and Navy Cmdr. (retired) Frederick K. Rubins.

I can be reached via the contact info below; preferably by email.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

I’ve gotten some nice notes from classmates about other classmates, but before I get into that I must tell you that another tree in our forest has fallen. Jacques Harlow, a longstanding member of our executive board succumbed to a heart attack in December. Past president, treasurer, fund cochair (with Bill “Carp” Carpenter) Jacques moved to Quechee, Vermont, years ago to be nearer the College (and the class). He will be very much missed. Doug Smith has agreed to take over the reins of treasurer that Jacques so capably handled. Speaking of Doug, his note to King Kenny revived King’s tale of the liberation of a small town not far from the Normandy beachhead and King’s recent return to celebrate the 75th anniversary of same. Joel Leavitt writes of an incident he and Ruth shared with Frank and Joanne Dickinson out antiquing. It seems Ruth fancied an item that she thought the price was too high. Frank put on his best “down East” accent, approached the owner, and said “Tell me friend, do you dicka?” The man answered, “Yes, we dicka,” and Ruthie got a deal. That was so Frank. Bob Kirby writes of an email with Ken Rothschild about mutual pal Ben Johnson and the discouragement of their lack of conversation with Ben, who is in a Maryland veteran’s home. Ken’s attempt to reach Bob Kilmarx met the same end. Bill “Carp” Carpenter has survived a bout with cancer (operation and all) enough to play tennis and enjoy his17 great-grands. Frank Lion’s Dorothy writes of his passing from their shared life in a Bridgewater, Virginia, retirement community. A note of great sadness for me is the passing of my former roomie and lifelong best pal Joe Ely. Other deaths to report include the passing of Leonard N. Radio, Monte F. Huebsch, Donald E. Krueger, Conrad R. Bohuslav, John E. Wulp, William E. Tallow, Glenn L. Fitkin Jr., Richard L. Johnson, John J. Cobb.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

’Tis a sad time to be penning Class Notes. As I write I think that this weekend was to be our vaunted 70th reunion, which of course has been postponed to next year. I think that all of us are now in our 90s and because we had so many veterans many of us are well into same! What does this do to attendance? Item No. 1 for this edition is an apology for penning a political song in the previous issue—not appropriate in the least—mea culpa! Item No. 2 a nice call from Al Harquail, who is disappointed by the 70th scuttle. He and Viv treated yours truly to a nice visit in their summer home in Osterville, Massachusetts, a while back. They are back in their winter digs in “Applesauce,” Maryland. Item No. 3 is a sad note from Hawaii noting the passing of “Cal” Sia, a hugely successful and noted pediatric surgeon in that state and one heck of a classmate on campus. A housekeeping note of sorts having to do with my hearing, especially on the phone: If there are those who plan to contact me by phone, give it a go, but my hearing is not all that swift. I actually do better by the email route. If you do phone, it’s better by far to use a landline. (I don’t do well with cell phone calls.) I hunger for news from any and all of you. Be ye not shy.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

The sad news is, of course, that our vaunted 70th reunion in October has bit the dust, but then not so surprising I guess. Be that as it may, I got a delightfully long note from our “Nob” Hovde describing his idyllic life in Naples, Florida, described by Nob (ever the wordsmith) as “the geriatric cruise ship to heaven.”

He enjoys a 6:15 every morning swim and contact by the internet with his three children—a daughter in France and a son and daughter in southern Maine (my own stomping ground and site of my mouse house in Cape Porpoise, Kennebunkport, spittin’ distance from Walker Point, George Bush Sr.’s manse).

While in that area in times past, I spent a bit of time with Frank Dickenson, who left us in 2014—it should be noted that his Joanne joined him just recently.

I do get emails, calls, and such from Joe Medlicott and Joel Leavitt, class “baby,” and would welcome same from any others of you out there.

Suffice it to say, says Doug Smith, I am still kind of in the electronics game Free Cell and well into the thousand plays of same.

I received the very sad news citing the passing of a giant of a classmate: Norman “Sandy” McCulloch Jr. As noted in a previous Class Notes, he wanted to survive his 94th birthday and his and Dorothy’s 70th wedding anniversary in July (which he did!) and his intention was to make the 70th in Hanover with Dottie; alas, not to be. Other members answering the roll call up yonder include Frederic N. Rau, Stanley A. Schneider, and Richard F. Ledyard.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Dear classmates, this is my version of a Gershwin number of the 1930s that the Injunaires did called “Bidin’ My Time.” (Those of you who are voting Republican, go back to bed!)

Joe Biden’s my kind

’Cause that’s the kinda guy I am

While other folks are Trumpin’

I keep stumpin’ for Biden’s my kind.

This year, this year

Election’s bound to happen

This year, this year

I’ll just keep on rappin’.

For Biden’s my guy

(Don’t ask me why)

There’s no regrettin’

On Joe I’m bettin’

Biden’s my kind.

Call me up and I’ll sing it for you (along with my uke)!

Tom Ruggles, 8-5 Concord Greene, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

I got a note (with a $2 stamp—the one with the upside-down bi-wing airplane—philatelists take note) from “big spender” Joe Medlicott advising me of the passing of Sally McCrillis Eldridge (widow of Newc, who passed in July 2015). Our gal Sal was certainly an exceptionable member of our class, as was Newc—a giant in the 8th Mountain Division. (Joe also cited the passing of Richard F. Ledyard, a ’49er who graduated with us in 1950.)

Still remembering their “charmed life together,” Jilly Harned sent a heartwarming picture and note citing Jack’s last moment February 8, “with his granddaughter playing Bach on her violin, Jack slipped away with all of us around him as the snow moon set in the west, peace at last.”

Joel Leavitt keeps some of us regaled—email fashion—with some funny items (and others). Also I heard from Lee “Sak” Sarokin, way out West, with a note regarding Eric Clapton and Wynton Marsalis “playing the blues.”

I guess we are all stay-at-homes in our respective pandemonium prisons. Personally, my last month (April) was spent in splendid isolation at eldest daughter Rebecca’s Cayuga lakeside retreat in upstate Aurora, New York.

I enjoy (feed on) hearing from any (all) of you, and most of all from Jilly Harned with an Easter salute wearing a wacky bonnet.

Keep October 30-November l in mind for our all-expenses-paid 70th reunion. I’ll be there (like Jack the bear). Will you?

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene #5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

This is your class secretary writing with an especially heavy heart at the loss of a giant of the “touch of class”: Jack Harned, past class president, lifelong genial host (with Jilly by his side), team manager during his college years, and all-around champion.

This is an especially tough month for us all, with 17 missing classmates (see my list at column’s end).

On a more upbeat note I submit the 2020 travel schedule of our trip tsar, prez Bob Kirby, and Brownlee McKee: March 13-29, skiing Colorado; July 7-24, Baltic cruise; October 30-November 1, the big 70th reunion (all expenses paid by the College); and December 7-17, Chile and Argentina for the solar eclipse! Speaking of the meet and greet in October-November, I have a nice note from Sandy McCulloch to Joe Medlicott alerting us to the fact that Sandy and Dotty (celebrating their 70th in June, followed by his 94th birthday in July) are planning on our 70th on the Hanover Plain. The man drives 12 miles to work every day at his office in Providence, Rhode Island, where he “jousts with the teachers’ union reluctant to change.”

John Weber and Shirley (his bride of 71 years) are planning on the big one, as is your class loudmouth and daughter Rebecca.

A nice note from our next-door class secretary, Pete Henderson ’51, about his very good pal Hugh Brower with sad but touching notes from Hugh’s wife, Jane, and one of his children.

Once again I am happy to forward to any classmates any materials (such as obits) on any deceased classmates here listed ( as well as those mentioned in the past): Clarence A. Beutel; Phillip H. Chase, Ph.D.; John T. Degraff Jr.; John F. Fallon; John A. Foster; George B. Harris III (one personal note: I still play the Paramount banjo I got from my good dear pal); Charles W. Lake; William D. Miliken; S. Donald Miner; Louis A. Narva; George R. Nugent; Capt. T.R. O’Neil (Navy retired); Harold C. Peters; Walter F. Schuette Jr.; Alan H. Teele (parent of a ’73, ’74, and ’78); Hugh Brower; and Jack Harned.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene #5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

The big news for all you ’50s is that our once in a lifetime 70th is upcoming October 30 (Friday) to November 1 (Sunday), and the College will pay for rooms and meals for you and one guest! I’ve already heard from John and Shirley Weber, who are “going pretty strong” in south Indiana at 91 and 90. John asks if Jacques Harlow is still canoeing (a sly reference to Cul Modisette’s fabled trip to Alaska with some ’50s aboard in years past). Incidentally, a re-read of John’s (and Cul’s) entries in Joe Medlicott’s magnum opus—the 50th yearbook—is well worth the effort! A special note here calling attention to the passing of “Nev” Chamberlain, six-star classmate, former secretary of this rag among many other things. There’s an interesting aside on recently departed Peter Hill (a sometime restorer of fine antiques), who came across a home with the famous “Zuber” wallpaper (imported from France early in the 19th century). Recognizing its value, he bought it for $50 and removed it himself with putty knife and razor blade and then contacted the Smithsonian, which arranged for a White House showing. The first lady invited Peter (and family) to pick the appropriate White House room, which turned out to be the diplomatic reception room. The paper was purchased for $12,500 afterward and generously donated to the White House. This is a part of Peter’s obit. Obituaries on the following classmates, and many others I have, make fascinating reading for us all. I would be happy to copy any and send them along. The College reports the recent deaths of Everett N. Chamberlain, Marshall W. Mitchell, John W. Oed, Clinton A. Mauk, Peter Hill, Arnold H. Bockstruck, and Paul W. Van Orden Jr. And so I take my leave.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene #5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

It was a perfect Homecoming Weekend October 11-13. We had Joe Medlicott and Stephanie Reininger, Margie Nichols, Jacques Harlow and new bride Rusty, David Taylor (and Karen), Joel Leavitt and Veda Decoff, Doug Smith and Meredith, president Bob Kirby and Brownlee McKee (fresh from their Alaska trip), and yours truly and eldest daughter Rebecca at a gastronomic feed at Ariana’s Restaurant in Lyme, New Hampshire, on Friday night. This was preceded by a delightful meet ’n’ greet at Stephanie’s in Lyme, where we were with Jack Harned, Jilly, and their daughter. Unfortunately, Joel and Veda had a horrendous five-hour trip through Boston traffic from their Cape Cod hideaway to Lyme and were able to join us only at the restaurant.

With no formal business meeting this year on Saturday and no visible pre-game parking lot hoorah, we repaired to the game with dandy 45-yard seats with Jacques, Joel and Veda, Bob and Brownlee, Jack and Jilly and daughter, myself and my daughter, plus Victoria Hicks (daughter of Ort ’49), at the Dartmouth vs. Yale washout suitably attired with Dr. Seuss Cat in the Hats and singing the football song unending! Jacques providing suitable cymbal crashes from time to time.

That evening had another gastronomic delight, this time from Meredith and Doug at their Livingstone Lodge in Enfield, New Hampshire—plus a well-earned award for the prez and an evening of pleasurable conversation. Then the weekend was history. (Joanie McIlwain was in town with her son, David ’85, but we didn’t get to see them.)

Al Harquail and Viv, fresh from a Scandinavian voyage, invited your scribe and Ruffy to their summer digs in Osterville on Cape Cod, where we rode out the Dorian aftermath. Nob Hovde is still enjoying Florida, with a swim every morning, three books a week, a morning snooze, lunch with pals, and an afternoon nap! Sounds like the life of Hovde to me! I received a note from Gerry Breyton, now retired in Osprey, Florida, after a career in military aircraft testing. He and Monique plan to join us for our 70, which we believe to be in September next.

Advice from a polar bear: Live large; be thick-skinned; sniff out opportunities; learn some good icebreakers; be fearless; keep it cool!

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene #5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

John “Swede” Swenson, doing archival research on Chicago from ancient French documents, shows its center to be a Native American mound the size of a football field, built circa 1100 A.D. Grandson “Mac” is a producer with NBC Sports and covered alpine skiing in the Winter Olympics! As to Swede’s claim to be the youngest amongst us, he must do war with Joel Leavitt on that one.

Bob Misey (95 years young) reports his granddaughter will be a member of the class of 2023, this after his offspring were not accepted at Dartmouth! Because he has moved eight times, he has nothing Darmouthian to bestow on her. He’s looking for College memorabilia to bestow on this lucky lady. Contact him at 2462 N. Prospect Ave., Apt 536, Milwaukee, WI 53211, or (414) 224-6183 if you can help. Jack and Jill Harned are looking forward to our mini, October 11, 12, and 13, and reuning with their grandson, Jackson Battey, on campus! Joe Medlicott reports Stephanie Reiningerhad a bit of a “smoosh” car-wise. Some broken bones resulted in three days in the hospital and four in rehab, but she’ll be ready for October. Thanks to Joe, I am the recipient of Ray King’s one step into show biz, a CD, Big Ray: A Grandfather Sings, engineered by his five offspring and wife Joan at Buttonwood Farm in November 2009. It’s a very beautiful piece of work! Bill Carpenter sends a Phi Kappa Psi songbook and hints he and Terri may join us in October. I got a nice note from Bob Wilkinson regretting the loss of Rene Blanc, who, with his wife, Pat, met with Bob and Carolyn during summers on Martha’s Vineyard. Bob says that Rene enjoyed our 50th and was looking forward to our 70th! The “Traveling-est Two” (Bob Kirby and Brownlee McKee) did Alaska in August—where to next?

These nonagenarians have their final roll call: Conrad “Connie” Bohuslav, Paul A. Keetz, David Davis, Donald E. Kreuger, Monte F. Huebsch, and Rene Blanc. I have specifics on their deaths and I will gladly forward to you if you email me.

Remember the following advice from a rabbit. Be a good listener. Eat plenty of greens. Let your dreams multiply. Hop to it! Know when to be still. Spend time in nature. Don’t worry, be hoppy!

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene, Unit 5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Joel Leavitt and Veda are on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with a return to Florida planned for November. Joel, playing tennis and golf three times a week (not on the same days, thank you), is also writing his memoirs and signed off as “the youngest of them all!” Al and Viv Harquail sold their ski lodge but sailed around Cape of Good Hope! They’re planning a summer as usual in Osterville on the Cape.

I had a lovely chat with Jimmy Myers’ beloved “Limey” widow, Laura, who told of their good friendship with the Lee Sarokins through the years. Jimmy was a Delt (like your secretary) and a fine tennis player and tenor, to boot! Ken Clark sent me a glowing tribute of his best lifelong pal, Clift Whiteman. They were in each other’s weddings, and Clift went into banking while Ken was a legal beagle. In our salad days, Ken certainly lent a touch of class to The Injunaires and he writes with a flair to this day. Jilly Harned reports that Jack is making good progress recovering from a summertime fall. I’m in touch with Bob Miller’s lovely lady, Evie, who resides in Buffalo, New York, and whose daughter, “Perky,” is in admissions at the academy here in Concord, Massachusetts. Evie was a pal of mine from Milton Academy days.

Our prez, Bob Kirby, is looking for a good turnout during Homecoming, October 11-13. And I need more news, friends!

I have obits and information on many of the following fallen classmates: David Davis, Gardner “Gard” Blodgett, Gene McCabe, Jim Moore, and Dick Williamson. If you want information on them, please contact me.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene #5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Doug Smith saw Joe Medlicott one Friday evening at the AVA gallery in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Both Joe’s friend Stephanie and Doug’s Meredith were contributing artists to the silent auction, so Joe and Doug got in free!

Joel Leavitt is playing tennis and golf three days a week—as befits the “youngest member of the class—but not the best looking!” he says. He leaves Palm Gardens, Florida, with Veda for Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in mid-June and plans to be with us October 10-11 for our Homecoming mini.

Jack and Jilly Harned are toughing it out at idyllic Stone Ridge, Connecticut, with him now out of the wheelchair using only a cane (after a bad summertime fall) with the help of a “knockout” 6-foot blonde therapist.

Lee “Sak” Sarokin, at Vi at La Jolla Village, California, continues to knock ’em dead way out west with his thespian outpourings with Traitor or Patriot and The Wedding Cake.

Our peripatetic president Bob Kirby and Brownlee McKee were skiing seven inches of the white at Aspen, Colorado, and continue their worldwide tour of choice watering spots.

Bill Carpenter is back on the tennis courts after some serious health issues subsided. “Carp” sold off his company in 2017 and keeps busy with Terri monitoring their 15 great-grandchildren (surely a record!). Both are looking forward to the fall—it is to be hoped they can make our October 10-11 Homecoming mini.

Sad note from Bob Wilkinson alerting us to Dick Williamson’s passing in March. Dick was a professor in the math department and had lived in Norwich, Vermont. After he retired he moved to Kendal in Hanover.

I have some limited information that I can share on the following classmates who have “moved on” (email me if you would like details): John “Jack” Avery, Richard “Dick” Johnson, James “Jim” Wehnes, Robert E. Graham, Leonard N. Radlo, John “Jack” L. Dutton, Leonard “M.” Stein, Thomas “Tom” M. Green, and H. Clifton “Clift” Whiteman III.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene, Unit 5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Members of “the touch of class” ’50, I come to you this issue with not much news, and urge all of you to contact me with any news you have that I can relay to the rest of us!

Of more interesting note: Jack and Jilly Harned are over the top elated about the news that one of their many grandchildren, Jackson Battey from California, will be in this fall’s freshman class—this is the third generation for the Harneds. The skinny is that he was lured by three gorgeous, blonde cousins.

With California in mind we welcome news from “here come da judge” Lee Sarokin, who is not content with being a class percussionist and performing at the La Jolla Village. Lee is also a budding playwright, having written nine plays in eight years that have been staged at nearby North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach, California, as part of its New Works series.

News of a more personal nature: My third daughter, professor D. Fairchild Ruggles, who heads the University of Illinois College of Fine Arts, was honored with a chair in landscape architecture last fall.

I receive notice of deceased classmates (see below) from time to time and I have access to some obits and information on same, which I would be happy to share with you if you write me. However, what I really want is some news of your doings or hearsay items about classmate friends!

I have to report that John Edwin Wulp of Rockport, Maine, died on November 27, 2018. We send condolences to his family.

Keep in mind that for our mini October 11-13 our president has lined up some good eatin’ sessions and, of course, this is Homecoming Weekend. Have ukulele, will travel!

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene, Unit 5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Corrections to last issue: Note that Jack and Jill Harned and family were not able to join us for our exceedingly pleasant and interesting trip and dinner to the Ravine Lodge at Moosilauke and the activities of the Homecoming Weekend that followed. The bus ride to and fro was very comfortable and we had a bit of a sing or two on the return trip. We heard from Terri Carpenter that all went well on the medical front for Bill.

The meeting Saturday morning had prez Bob Kirby, and Brownlea, Doug Smith (who took notes), treasurer Jacques Harlow, and David Taylor (bringer of dou and “joe”) and was as usual at Collis. Jacques noted our usual contributions to the Dickey foundation, the athletic program, and Collis and reported that the fund had 120 donations (25 from class widows). Bob offered once again to step down from his prez podium but no one volunteered to step up. The Homecoming game was in the rain, but we pulled out a win (but could not do the same vs. the Tigers, and thus the title eluded the Green once again). Next year’s meeting will be during October 11-12 Homecoming, with a game vs. Yale and some “exciting dinners” (his words) planned by our peripatetic prez.

I have obits and info on recently deceased classmates Robert Olin Hutchinson, David Steinberg, Phillip Walling Brown Jr., and Alexander Carr Hoffman. Please write me if you would like them.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene, Unit 5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

I will be attempting to be your worthy scribe now that good pals Nev Chamberlain and Alex Hoffman have left us, but I have to warn you that I don’t do much online. But write to me if you would like details on obituaries and I will do my best to mail them to you.

New news first. The class had a mini on the Harvard Homecoming Weekend and it started with a bus ride Friday afternoon and dinner at Ravine Lodge at Moosilauke with Brownlea and Bob Kirby, Stephanie and Joe Medlicott, Karen and Dave Taylor, Meredith and Doug Smith, Jacques Harlow and new bride “Rusty” Rodrigues, Marge (Mrs. “Fizz”) Nichols, Jilly and Jack Harned (and a child or two) and your scribe and Victoria Hicks (daughter of roomie and best pal Ort Hicks ’49).

Saturday followed with the usual morning class meeting, the game, and a dinner in Norwich, Vermont, with Sunday homeward bound.

We had hoped that Katherine and George Woodwell and Terri and Bill Carpenter would be joining us, but George took a pass and “Carp” was facing a serious operation that week so Terri sent regrets.

Our recently deceased classmates include Robert Curtis Mckee, Edward Julien Zebrowski, M.D., Edward Andrew Wilde Jr., Leonard Nelson Radlo, Robert Eldon Graham, John Leon Dutton, Leonard Morton Stein, Thomas Myer Green III, and Clifton H. Whiteman III.

Contact me at the address below.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene, Unit 5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

Our cherished classmate and class secretary Alex Hoffman has put down his pen due to illness. But although he is no longer contributing to these Class Notes, he was able to attend the opening reception of an exhibition by his two talented children, Peter and Susan, at the Southern Vermont Art Center at Manchester, which Alex had a hand in creating. I have volunteered to take over the role of class secretary (sort of) and roving reporter (kind of). Classmates: I now need your information sent to me (information below), and I will try to carry on in my good friend Alex’s (and Nev Chamberlain’s) stead.

An enticing tidbit of romantic memorabilia is that our tireless treasurer, Jacques Harlow, tied the marital knot (once again) this past summer with a wonderful lady, “Rusty” Rodriguez, in Quechee, Vermont. They can be reached at 732 Wheelock (as in Eleazar) Road, Quechee, VT 05059.

By the time this issue appears, what’s left of the fearless ’50s will have enjoyed a meaningful mini-reunion at the Homecoming (Harvard) weekend October 26-28. Crafted by our peripatetic (is there really such a word?) prez and Brownlee, it started off with a Friday evening at the newly done-up Moosilauke Ravine Lodge followed by the traditional Harvard-Dartmouth “super scrimmage” the following day.

Tom “Smiley” Ruggles, 8 Concord Greene, Unit 5, Concord, MA 01742; (978) 369-5879; smileytmr@aol.com

This is a difficult column to write. In March 2017 I was still skiing. Then the valves in my aorta failed almost totally, leaving me with no strength and complete loss of equilibrium. I am now in hospice care in Hudson, New York, living in a nice small apartment my son, Peter, and his lovely wife, Linda, built for me on the north end of their barn. My daughter, Susan, and husband Dennis live nearby, as do two of my three grandchildren, which is a great blessing. I take life a day at a time, and will continue as class secretary as long as I can.

I heard from Margie Nichols that Rose Mary Lindenthal died in her sleep on November 17, 2017. There was a memorial service in December at St. Joseph’s Church in Needham, Massachusetts.

Randy Gilmore passed away on October 20, 2017. His wife, Joanne, can be reached at 1551 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Unit 18, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464; (843) 364-1945.

Kenneth Harvey passed away on January 30, 2014. His wife, Dorothy, predeceased him.

I have had calls from Jack and Jilly Harned and Joe Medlicott, all of whom are doing well. I am glad to report that my children have been invited to mount a joint exhibit of their art (quilted tapestries, sculpture and paintings) in the Wilson Museum at the Southern Vermont Arts Center in Manchester Center, Vermont. It will open on July 28 with a reception from 4 to 6 p.m. and close on August 26. Said the unbiased father, “This exhibit will knock your socks off!” I hope to be there for the opening reception, and it would be great to see any of you who might be in the neighborhood at that time.

Alex Hoffman, 96 Stickles Road, Hudson, NY 12534; twinksalex2@gmail.com

Nineteen of us greatly enjoyed our 2017 mini-reunion during the weekend of October 6-8, drizzly weather notwithstanding. Dramatis personae included Jack Harned and Jilly, Jaques Harlow and Rusty, Bob Kirby and Brownlee, Joel Leavitt and Vida, Joe Medlicott and Stephanie, Doug Smith and Meredith, Dave Taylor and Karen, Tom Ruggles, Joan McIlwain, Marge Nichols, Molly Scheu and Alex Hoffman. Smiley Ruggles and his banjo led our singers on a flatbed truck in the Friday night parade before the bonfire on the Green. At the class meeting Saturday morning treasurer Harlow reported that, after making our yearly $2,500 contributions to the Dickey, Collis and athletic foundations, we’ll have a balance of about $22,000. Though down a bit in 2016, our class still ranks first or second in lifetime giving to the College. In the absence of challengers, you’re stuck with incumbent class officers.

On Saturday afternoon the football team fell behind 17-0 before beating Yale 28-27 in the closing seconds. That evening we had our own room for a convivial dinner at the Norwich Inn. After the meal we shared reflections on events and actions in our long lives that have meant the most to us and both the pleasures and problems of this late stage of our lives. Our next mini-reunion will be on the weekend of October 26-28, Homecoming 2018, with football vs. Harvard. Put it on your calendars.

Kayla McFarland has informed me of the passing of her grandfather, J. Leo Appel, on September 5, 2017. The College has informed me of the passing of Parton Crane Keese on August 25, 2017.

We live now in a parlous and unprecedented time which has drawn attention to a seldom considered aspect of the U.S. Constitution. The 25th Amendment empowers a majority of the president’s cabinet to remove him from office if they judge him to be unfit to fulfill its duties. When one of the White House staff mentioned the 25th Amendment to him recently, the president said, “What’s that?” Does this frighten you?

Alex Hoffman, 96 Stickles Road, Hudson, NY 12534; twinksalex@comcast.net

Nineteen of us greatly enjoyed our 2017 mini-reunion over the weekend of October 6-8, drizzly weather notwithstanding. Dramatis personae included Jack Harned and Jilly, Jaques Harlow and Rusty, Bob Kirby and Brownlee, Joel Leavitt and Vida, Joe Medlicott and Stephanie, Doug Smith and Merideth, Dave Taylor and Karren, Tom Ruggles, Joan McIlwain, Marge Nichols, Molly Scheu and Alex Hoffman.

Smiley Ruggles and his banjo led our singers on a flatbed truck in the Friday night parade before the bonfire on the Green. At the class meeting Saturday morning treasurer Harlow reported that, after making our yearly $2,500 contributions to the Dickey, Collis and athletic foundations, we’ll have a balance of about $22,000. Though down a bit in 2016, our class still ranks first or second in lifetime giving to the College. In the absence of challengers, you’re stuck with incumbent class officers.

On Saturday afternoon the football team fell behind 17-0 before beating Yale 28-27 in the closing seconds. That evening we had our own room for a convivial dinner at the Norwich Inn. After the meal we shared reflections on events and actions in our long lives that have meant the most to us, and both the pleasures and problems of this late stage of our lives. Our next mini-reunion will be on the weekend of October 26-28, Homecoming 2018, with football vs. Harvard. Put it on your calendars.

Kayla McFarland has informed me of the passing of her grandfather, J. Leo Appel, on September 5, 2017. The College has informed me of the passing of Parton Crane Keese on August 25, 2017.

We live now in a parlous and unprecedented time that has drawn attention to a seldom-considered aspect of the Constitution. The 25th Amendment empowers a majority of the president’s cabinet to remove him from office if they judge him to be unfit to fulfill its duties. When one of the White House staff mentioned the 25th Amendment to him recently, the president said, “What’s that?” He seems equally unaware of the First Amendment, having said it is disgusting that the press can say anything they want and that this must be looked into. Does this frighten you?

Alex Hoffman, 49 Maple St., Apt. 113, Manchester Center, VT 05255; (802) 362-2486; twinksalex@comcast.net

I received a nice note from former U.S. Federal Court of Appeals Judge Lee Sarokin containing some wonderful memories. He, Joel Levitt and Frank Gilroy attended the memorial service for jazz pianist Jack English, with whom drummer Lee and saxophonist Roger Mathes traveled to Europe in the summer of 1949 as members of the Dartmouth Boptet. Dizzy Gillespie came to hear them at the Paris jazz club where they had a summer gig, and then invited them to sit in later with his band at his club. Lee wrote, “I’ve had many great moments in my life, but that still stands out as one of the greatest!”

When I responded to a note from George Woodwell (founder and longtime head of the Woods Hole Research Center), he wrote back, “A real letter! With enclosures! Astonishing! But then in Vermont they apparently still write them and use the ancient language free of ‘likes’ and vulgarity.” (That standard falls when one is writing about the present federal administration.) George mourns the fact that a benighted board of selectmen in his town of Falmouth, Massachusetts, has voted to remove two large wind turbines from 300 acres of town land, ending seven years of productive operation.

Michael Bongiorno ’88 wrote to tell me that his uncle, Gerry Sarno, had passed away in June. Gerry was a force on our winning football teams, received his master’s from Thayer and later served on the Thayer board of overseers.

Lynn Adams, daughter of Nev Chamberlain, kindly wrote to tell me that Nev, my predecessor as class secretary, passed away in May in Vero Beach, Florida, and will be interred in Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts. I last saw Nev and his beloved wife, Randi, in Vero a year or so ago when Joan McIlwain, Jilly and Jack Harned and I joined them for lunch. I believe Randi’s address is still 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL.

The College informed me that Richard Bill had passed away in 2010.

I hope to see you in Hanover for our mini-reunion in October. Carpe diem!

Alex Hoffman, 49 Maple St., Apt. 113, Manchester Center, VT 05255; (802) 362-2486; twinksalex@comcast.net

John “Swede” Swenson sent a note from Chicago. His wife, Helen, passed on last year after 62 years of marriage. His father, Mervin Swenson ’23, was inducted into the Wearers of the Green last fall and his son, Bill ’79, was in Hanover to accept the award. Swede is researching and writing a history of Chicago and the Midwest before 1800.

Ken Rothchild checked in from Minneapolis. His granddaughter graduated from Blake School (where Curt Dunnavan and I were ’44s). She now manages a resort in Costa Rica and with her husband started a grade school in a community that had none. Ken and Nina plan to go there when war breaks out with Mexico, thanks to our willfully ignorant president. Ken notes that fellow Minnesotans Arnie Bockstruck, Fred Gamble, Tom Warner, Phil Brown and Arnie Oss are still among us. (I used to date Arnie’s sister, Mary Alice.)

I had a nice note from the long-silent David Steinberg, distinguished professor emeritus at Georgetown University and a fellow philosophy major at Dartmouth. He spent his junior year in China on a scholarship, in the middle of Mao’s revolution. His career was in teaching and in work for the Asia Foundation and the USAID, and he remains active in various academic endeavors concerning the Asian world.

Dr. Cal Sia sent an Aloha from Hawaii (a place our attorney general, who lied during his Senate confirmation, recently referred to as “some island in the Pacific”). Cal was recently honored for his long-outstanding service in pediatric medicine. His son, Michael ’81, is chief of pediatrics at the Kapiolani Women’s and Children’s Medical Center. Cal and his wife, Katherine, celebrated their 65th anniversary last year. He wrote, “Age and health issues are catching up with us, but we live each day to its fullest.”

As a former Republican, I close with a quote from David Leonhardt: “You don’t get to call yourself the party of Lincoln and stay silent when voting rights are abridged, hate crimes are met with silence and dark-skinned citizens are cast as un-American. I never expected to live through a time when bigotry would again be ascendant.”

Alex Hoffman, 49 Maple St., Apt. 113, Manchester Center, VT 05255; (802) 362-2486; twinksalex@comcast.net

Pictures of Tom “Smiley” Ruggles and his Singing Doughboys, all attired in authentic WW I uniforms, graced the front page of The Concord Journal in April, when they marched and sang for the last time in the Concord, Massachusetts, Patriots Day Parade. (With all of them in their 80s, Tom said simply, “It’s time.”) Tom created the group in 1985 to be part of Concord’s celebration of its 350th birthday, and they’ve been at it for the ensuing 32 years, much to the pleasure of all local residents. This year they finished up at the Hunt Gym on Stow Street, sang “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” yelled “Hip, Hip Hooray” and serenaded Tom with “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” (Smiley is a man for whom that song could have been written.)

I spoke on the phone recently with Bob Miller, a lifelong resident and community leader of Buffalo, New York. Health problems now keep him in bed much of the time, but his spirit is strong and we had a good long talk. The outstanding playwright A.R. Gurney, who recently passed away, is the brother of Evie, Bob’s lovely wife. A.R.’s many plays, such as Love Letters and The Perfect Party, marvelously satirize the WASP culture familiar to many of us. They sufficiently upset his father, who thought he could identify many of his friends in the plays’ characters, that A.R. postponed producing one of them until his father had passed away. Twinks and I greatly enjoyed all we were able to see.

Cal Sia’s oldest son, Richard, has been an investigative reporter for The Baltimore Sun and the National Journal, and now heads a society of investigative journalists, all of whom must have strong stomachs. After exhaustive research, it was reported today (June 26) that Trump publicly told one or more lies every day for the first 40 days of his presidency and has slowed down only slightly since then. The task of following, fact-checking and reporting a continuous effort to make reality irrelevant, political truth seems non-existent and portraying an independent press as the enemy of the people must be horrific. Were George Orwell with us today, his next book might be titled 2017.

Sorry, that’s all the space the College allows for old classes.

Alex Hoffman, 49 Maple St., Apt. 113, Manchester Center, VT 05255; (802) 362-2486; twinksalex@comcast.net

I recently spoke with John Caldwell, who was featured in the January/February issue of the new UpCountry magazine. The article describes him as “the founding father of Nordic skiing in America.” After Dartmouth John skied on the U.S. Nordic team in the 1952 Olympic Games and coached the U.S. team through four Olympics, 1960-1972. His son, Tim ’76, was a four-time Olympian. His son, Sverre ’77, coached the 1988 U.S. Olympic team and Sverre’s daughter, Sophie, was an Olympian at the Sochi games. I think that having Olympic skiers in three successive generations of the same family is unique. (There may be something to this thing about the granite of New Hampshire turning up in muscles.)

I heard from Joel Leavitt that Frank Harrington passed away on February 4 in Vero Beach, Florida. Joel had taken Frank to lunch every Friday for the past few years during his long illness. Frank was truly a loyal son of Dartmouth.

Jilly and Jack Harned and I will go to Vero in late March to visit Joel and then Joan McIlwain. Jack and I will resume our putting competition from last year, and Joel and I will comprise a new doubles team on the tennis court. If Roger Federer can thrive in his old age, why not us?

Doug Smith reported that Don Hannigan had passed away on Christmas Day 2016. You can read a lovely obituary of a good life that will make you smile at firtionadams.com/notices/Donald-Hannigan.

I have been notified by the College of the passing of classmates Sherman M. Clough Jr., November 12, 2016; George F. Johnson, October 4, 2016; Reynolds W. Smith Jr., November 18, 2016; and James P. Lyons, August 31, 2016.

As a long-retired publisher living under a president who is a purveyor of “alternative facts” who says that “journalists are among the most dishonest people on earth” and who identifies an independent press as “the enemy,” I (along with my three grandchildren and millions of women all over the world) am very nervous. How about you?

Alex Hoffman, 49 Maple St., Apt. 113, Manchester Center, VT 05255; (802) 362-2486; twinksalex@comcast.net

You have a new class secretary who is already behind in his duties. My faithful predecessor Nev Chamberlain and his wife, Randi, are now both coping with serious health problems, so at our October mini-reunion I was importuned to assume his task (having just retired as secretary of Tuck ’51). Since idleness is not helpful to a near 91-year-old declining brain, I’ll give it my best shot.

The mini-reunion weekend included the Dartmouth-Penn football game, an event that bore scant resemblance to the exuberant fall gatherings of our past. It was played on a cold, damp Friday night before a sparse, shivering crowd. The stands nearest the field house, which used to be filled with a cheering freshman class, were virtually empty. The only singing of Dartmouth football songs was done by our small ’50 delegation, led by the ebullient Tom “Smiley” Ruggles and his ever-resonant banjo.

Football aside, 15 of us had a very enjoyable time together, something for which to be grateful at this stage of the game. On hand were president Bob Kirby and Brownlee, Joel Levitt and Vita, Jack and Jilly Harned, Joan McIlwain, Tom Ruggles, Jacques Harlow, Doug and Meredith Smith, David and Karen Taylor, Joe Medlicott and Alex Hoffman.

We had a good class meeting. We are sound financially and continue to support the Dickey Center, athletic sponsors and Collis interns. The class of 1950 maples, now fully grown, continue to grace the south end of the Green. Reduced dues income simply reflects the loss of 58 classmates during the last 18 months. There are now about 250 of us still on the upper side of the sod.

These are not easy times for those of our vintage. Just among those present, within the past year Joan McIlwain has lost Bob, Tom Ruggles has lost Janot and I have lost Twinks. Many fill the difficult role of caring for an ailing spouse or companion. We now number about 250.

We enjoyed two good dinners together, one at the Inn, the other at Murphy’s Restaurant on Main Street, and a lovely Sunday brunch at the home of Doug and Meredith Smith in nearby Enfield. We will next gather on Homecoming Weekend in October.

Please let me hear from you. I wish you well, and will try to keep ’50 Class Notes in print regularly. Wear the green and hold memories of our inspiring days in Hanover, when John Dickey began his outstanding leadership and Dean Neidlinger kept order in the ranks with an even hand.

Alex Hoffman, 49 Maple St., Apt.113, Manchester Center, VT 05255: (802) 362-2486; twinksalex@comcast.net

No sooner had I told you about Tommy Ruggles’ 22nd leap year birthday than I am forced to tell you about the loss of Tommy’s beloved wife, Janot. Having been sick for several years, she had very recently been forced to move into a round-the-clock medical facility. Death from pneumonia quickly followed on May 24.

Joan McIlwain thoughtfully called to tell me that at the funeral she was joined by Doug and Meredith Smith, Jack and Jill Harned, Fizz’s widow, Marge Nichols, Jacques Harlow and Rusty Rodriguez, and Bob Kirby and wife Brownlee.

Voices blended in the singing of “Eidelweiss” in heartfelt memory of Janot—a musical expression of Tom’s broken heart.

Joanne Sardella, Joe’s daughter, informs me that her father is about to undergo knee replacement surgery, a courageous undertaking at this time of life.

I enjoyed a long talk with Frank Harrington, during which we exchanged ideas on getting older. We agreed that it is good to be alive—but there are bumps in the road along the way.

Clift Whiteman, who lives in Naples, Florida, is planning to rent a car and driver for a trip across Florida to lunch with Randi and me. I hope it happens.

Whereas the cover of the July/August issue of this magazine might more appropriately have pictured Dartmouth Hall or even the Hopkins Center, the actual image of an informally attired Rembert Browne ’09 came as a shock—at least to me. But then—the world has changed. The progress of our currently unfolding presidential campaign is an example of how much. The cover is explained on pages 38-43.

The College informs me that we have lost several more classmates. Tom Ringe died on April 9, Skip Fauver died on April 16, Stan Brodsky died in February, John Coffman died on April 18, Ken MacDonald Jr. died on June 4 and Dan Olsen Jr. died on May 27.

Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @gmail.com

A long-standing assumption that Joel Leavitt, the current class tennis champion and golf enthusiast, is the youngest among us has been proved false. Tommy Ruggles has emerged as the holder of that title. Tom was born on February 29, 1928, and has been giving birthday parties every four years for quite a while. This year, after quizzing a number of town clerks in surrounding counties, he sent out 51 invitations. Seven, along with much older friends and family, attended his 22nd Leap Year party at the Concord (Massachusetts) Green Condominiums, a project originally built by Frank Harrington. The occasion made local headlines. Tom, with his famous banjo, joined his band, Strings ’n’ Things and sang songs reminiscent of the 1920s. “I’m a bit of a showman,” he modestly told a reporter.

On March 14 Randi and I enjoyed a lunch at Mulligan’s Beach House with Jack and Jill Harned, Alex Hoffman, Joan McIlwain (with the poignant memory of recently departed Bob McIlwain) and Twinks Hoffman. I felt a keen sense of nostalgia as Jack and I—once spry young fraternity brothers—were feeling our way to the table, Jack with his historic gold-handled cane and me with my rubber-tipped model. How lucky we were to have been able to do so after all these years. It was a grand occasion. Such good friends.

The Dartmouth Club of Vero Beach, Florida, sponsored a wine and cheese lecture by economics professor David Blanchflower. We and Joan McIlwain were photographed by Joanne Sardella, Joe’s daughter. She is secretary of the club and one of our favorite stockbrokers.

Rita O’Neil, who was married to Timothy Robert O’Neil for 69 years, has written to let the class know that Tim died on May 13, 2015. They met when she was 16 years old. The tone of her letter tells us that their marriage was made in heaven. Please read Alex Hoffman’s obituary of Bob McIlwain at dartmouthalumnimagazine.com.

Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

In June of 1950, when I was 23, the thought that 65 years later I might be reuning with some of the same men who were receiving diplomas from John Dickey would never have occurred. Should it have done so, I probably would have regarded it as unlikely or impossible. However, as we know, it did happen—last September. Unhappily, Randi and I were unable to attend, but we were there in spirit and have enjoyed president Bob Kirby’s excellent report and picture of the attendees.

Bob, Tommy Ruggles, Joel Leavitt, Sandy McCoullich, Jack Harned, Joe Medlicott, Bill Carpenter and Jacques Harlow are all to be loved and respected for their dedication to the class of 1950. (Please complain if I’ve forgotten anyone.)

Since October the high point of our class experience has been a wonderful luncheon with Joan McIlwain and her son, Bill, Joel Leavitt and Vida and, sadly, the vivid memory of recently departed Bob McIlwain. We missed Frank Harrington, who couldn’t make it.

I have spoken with Frank, whose health, pretty much like mine, is not the greatest but whose spirit, like mine, remains high.

Clift Whiteman, living in Naples, Florida, is slowly recovering from the loss of his love, Joan. He hopes, one day, to travel east for a visit with us and others.

Unfortunately, the Dockside Grille, our favorite watering place, has closed forever. But we will manage to hoist one for “the College on the Hill” when Clift does arrive.

My very best to all of you and a nostalgic salute to those who have left us.

Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

It seemed like a good idea at the time—my decision to not send Christmas cards this year. After all, many of my friends had chosen not to do so—mostly to avoid a time-consuming task. I would, instead, telephone a Christmas message—more friendly, more meaningful, more personal, I thought. What a good idea!

Am I happy for having done so?

No!

First: Phone messages do not follow traveling friends about the country.

Second: Phone messages saying, “Call me so that I can say, ‘Merry Christmas,’ are a bit tedious.”

Third: Multiple busy signals are time consuming and frustrating.

In short, it was a bad idea. Next year I will resume the old discipline and send Christmas cards.

But this column is supposed to be about classmates, from whom I have not received volumes of news.

Jack and Jill Harned have shared the good news that treatment of his lung cancer has stopped its growth and that a newly approved drug offers great promise for the future. We look forward to seeing them in Vero Beach, Florida, next winter. Don’t forget the hat, Jack.

Alex Hoffman has written a moving memorial to his great friend, Bob McIlwain, who died in October. Please read it online at dartmouthalumnimagazine.com, checking under the “Class Notes & Obits” link.

Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2892; ranevero03 @gmail.com

 

Investigative reporting and in-depth interviews were preempted by my recent hospital stay. Diagnoses of pneumonia and urinary tract infection and a general feeling of blah have resulted in a very short column this issue. I apologize.

Bob Kirby and Tommy Ruggles orchestrated an outstanding 65th reunion for the class of ’50 on September 25 through 27 in Hanover. Unfortunately, Randi and I were unable to attend but reports I have received speak in glowing terms. Tommy observes that his music “even got some of us out on the dance floor”—although I don’t have actual attendance numbers, maybe in the next column.

Frank Harrington, faithful caller that he is, now lives alone in the infirmary section of Devonshire in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and I am sure would be glad to hear from friends at (561) 227-3269.

Nob Hovde, whose sense of humor moves smartly on, clarified our relationship by announcing recently, “In case you’ve lost your moorings, I went to college with you.”

Joan Mauk is enjoying her new managed care home in Cincinnati.

The 65th reunion proved to be a bittersweet experience for Bob McIlwain, who, sick as he was, insisted on attending. Bob passed away two weeks later after a valiant several-year struggle with cancer. Newc Eldredge, who had planned to attend, was sadly taken from us before reunion began.

Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2892; ranevero03 @gmail.com

A call from Nob Hovde reveals that he and most of his family are doing well: that he is reading prodigiously but that he sometimes wonders if, after 80-plus-plus years, he has left a significant footprint in the sands of time. Good question, Nob. Many of us might wonder the same thing but to what avail? Some failures but more successes. Comparing oneself with heroes is futile. After all, as poet Thomas Gray observed, “The paths of glory lead but to the grave.”

Gerry Sarno writes a very sensitive note about older brother Joe’s recent death. Joe was headed to Holy Cross. The war had cost him a couple or more years. Gerry, then at Dartmouth, invited Joe up for a house party weekend. Joe loved the place, had a chat with Tuss McLaughry and changed his mind.

Joe Medlicott sends an article announcing that David Brion Davis has received the 2013 National Humanities Medal in a ceremony at the White House. The National Endowment for the Humanities writes that Dr. Davis, a former professor at Cornell and at Yale, has been a giant in the study of slavery and its abolition.

Clift Whiteman recalls our days of dignified debauchery at Dockside Grille here in Vero, Florida, before his move across Florida to Naples.

Ken Clark fears that as Clift slowly recovers from Joan’s death, his relentless pursuit of money for Tuck School will intensify.

With a heavy heart and with condolences to bereaved families I report the following deaths: Jim Birney on June 13, followed shortly thereafter by his beloved Bobbie; Newc Eldredge on July 9; Joe Sarno on July 18; John Morton on May 9, 2014; Cul Modisette in December 2012; Vinny Hill on September 27, 2012; and Bob Foster on October 23, 2014. May they rest in peace.

Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2892; ranevero03 @gmail.com

Do you remember 1955—the year of our fifth reunion? I do. Back on the Hanover Plain for the first time since graduation. Familiar-but-as-yet-unknown faces, new wives, old friends, still learning to fly in the outside world. Most of us not knowing where or how to get to wherever we were going. Then the 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th, 30th, 35th, 40th, 45th, 50th, 55th, 60th and this year—the 65th. Wow!

Those of us who remain now know where we’ve been and how we got to where we are. And those who are lucky enough will meet at the Hanover Inn on the Hanover Plain on September 25 to celebrate 65 years in the outside world, which we know far better than we did in 1955.

Bob Kirby and the ever-active, effervescent Tommy Ruggles have put together a carefully planned program for us. There is a paltry $50 head tax plus free rooms at the Hanover Inn and a banquet, both on the College, and a football game. Tommy has put together a seminar at which Sandy McCulloch, Joe Medlicott, Joel Leavitt and, we hope, Bob Kilmarx will speak on topics of interest. Currently 40 men and 20 women have signed up. Most activities will be in the vicinity of the inn and provisions for assistance in getting around for those who need it will be available. Tommy and his band will host a tea dance Saturday afternoon and there will be a rendition of Dartmouth songs. It promises to be a grand 65th reunion. Tommy and Janot, by the way, have recently moved into Concord (Massachusetts) Green, a condominium project originally built by Frank Harrington.

Ben Shaver’s widow, Joy, writes with the happy news that their granddaughter, Megan Noelle Knight Madara, has graduated from Penn’s veterinary school with a Phi Zeta award (the veterinary equivalent of Phi Beta Kappa). Megan’s father is John Knight ’74. Joy notes that Megan, like Ben, is a redhead.

Randi and I enjoyed brunch on the sunlit deck of the Dockside Grille with Bob and Joan McIlwain just before the McIlwains headed north for the summer. Onlookers might have speculated as to whether it would be Bob or me who would have come in last in the 40-yard dash. I think it would have been me.

Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

As I contemplated the approach of my 88th birthday following the death of my dear younger brother, David ’52, I thought, “It may be time for me to retire—to quit writing this column and to vegetate.” Then, fortunately, I read The Wall Street Journal article about Ed Gerson, secretary of the class of ’35 who still writes the Class Notes in this magazine. Though aside from Ed there are but two living members of ’35 remaining, he forges on and keeps in touch. How, then, dare I stop? Keep in touch, guys and gals. I need you.


Also, heartfelt thanks to Richard Tucker ’86 of Canada, who wrote that he enjoys reading the columns of earlier classes and appreciates the efforts that they represent.


Then, on a humorous yet also sad note, is the communication from an unnamed ’50 that said, “If you are looking for a date, short or long term, skip the bars, call your local minister.”


Clift Whiteman, who has recently lost his beloved wife, Joan, presses sadly on and has spoken with Fred Gamble, Bob McIlwain and erstwhile roommate Joe Medlicott.


Nob Hovde reports that son Marc is the successful builder of choice of million dollar homes in southern Maine and doing very well. Nob continues with various levels of volunteer work. He sounds and feels very healthy.


Frank Harrington’s close friend Rosemary Kip says that Frank has moved into the medical section of their condo. Frank reports on a recent highly enjoyable dinner with Joel Leavit and Veda together with the McIlwains and the Ruggles.


I look forward to reading the article in the current DAM titled, “Why Does Dartmouth Cost So Much?” I suspect that Alex Hoffman’s recently expressed thoughts may at least partially answer the question. He explains that in recent years the College has built “a costly, huge and still-growing academic and administrative bureaucracy, largely driven by political correctness, which is now about triple the size of the faculty.”


Bob Kirby, our class president, enthusiastically reports that 38 classmates together with 24 guests have indicated their intent to attend our 65th reunion in Hanover to be held September 25-27 this year. A very encouraging number. Most events will be held at or near the Hanover Inn. The College will provide physical assistance for those who need it.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

My apologies for growing old on December 28 and the teeny column it caused.


An unwelcomed phone message from an always welcome Jilly Harned informed me that Bobbie Birney’s darling, Jim, had moved to hospice. Special good wishes from me and on behalf of the class to our preacher and beloved friend.


Randi and I enjoyed a lively and tumultuous lunch with Joan Mauk, son David Mauk and Bob and Joan McIlwain. Tumultuous because we were kicked out of the first restaurant by a very disagreeable hostess—all but one of us in our 80s.


An always enjoyable call from Frank Harrington noted that he is relatively well, although pretty much confined to quarters, and Rosemary has had a visit from her granddaughter.


Alex Hoffman writes a news-filled letter. He is fine but Twinks has suffered a series of disabling strokes. With “wonderful spirit and determination” she has made very good progress toward recovery. Her spirit is “an inspiration” to Alex. With outside help, they continue to live in their apartment. Alex expresses dismay at the “costly and still-growing academic and administrative bureaucracy at the College. He notes that the administration “allowed radical students calling themselves ‘real talkers’ to occupy Parkhurst, then canceled classes in order to consider demands such as having the College pay for sex-change operations.” How the world has changed.


He has recently spoken with Joe Medlicott and Clift Whiteman and reports that Dave and Karen Taylor have moved to a new apartment in Lebanon, New Hampshire.


Speaking of Joe Medlicott, he writes that David Davis, whose name does not appear in the Aegis but does in the 50-year book, has received the National Humanities Medal from President Obama. Joe also sent me a clipping that announces that John Wulp, who lives on an island in Maine, at the age of 86 is still active in the theater, the off-Broadway theater, that is.


Joyce Miller reports that, sadly, her husband, William Mason “Bing” Miller, died in December of a heart attack. Other deaths include those of Frank Dickinson and Sherman “Sherm” Hoyt in January, Ismar “Izzy” Stahl in December and William “Bill” Schneider in February. The class extends condolences to the families of these men.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962: (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

I hope that you will forgive my failure to produce a column due by December 28, 2014. A medical issue prevented me from writing. I intend to make my next deadline, which will occur on February 28. Best wishes.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

51 There’s nothing like a golf story to take the chill off of this stubborn winter. Tom Barnett (Houston) reports that Jack Weingarten shot his age (84) in their annual golf outing last fall! Jack’s round included a 39 on the back nine. Tom contributed generously to Jack’s retirement fund despite also shooting in the 80s. Al Brout (La Quinta, California) “just missed” matching Jack’s feat this winter.


Carl Glassberg (Clearwater, Florida) lost his wife, Irene, after a long illness. Carl has created a scholarship fund at Dartmouth in her memory. The Glassbergs’ ties to the College continue through son Andy ’80 and granddaughter Emily ’13. Emily is a Ph.D. candidate in biology at Stanford.


Don Cox (Concord, New Hampshire) has also spawned a Dartmouth dynasty. His daughter, Betsey Cox-Buteau ’77, continued the tradition and two granddaughters were in the classes of ’04 and ’11. Don’s wife, Carol, died last year and he has had some health problems but Betsey summed up his upbeat outlook on life as “he youthens!”


Mark Hatch ’80, son of our late classmate John Hatch, sent a thoughtful remembrance of “Uncle” Gary Mansur following Gary’s recent death. “Mugs” was John’s roommate and his “most loyal and enduring friend. I remember him as a good man, loyal, caring, humorous, warm and genuinely interested in how I was doing. How he loved Dartmouth!”


Other recent deaths include those of Frank Reynolds and Mike Harris. A celebration of Mike’s life was held in his beloved hometown of Ogunquit, Maine. Our class was represented by Joe Welch (Newburyport, Massachusetts) and Howie Allen (Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts).


It was fun to exchange updates with Dick McFarland (Excelsior, Minnesota) recently. We have both enjoyed stimulating work with foundations. Dick has retired after seven years on the board of the McKnight Foundation, having previously served on the boards of the Bush and Minneapolis foundations. He is now involved as a “non-paid, non-official advisor” to a group of nonprofits with special interest in education and affordable housing. The same issues are major concerns of the Evanston Community Foundation, on which board I serve.


Pete Henderson, 450 Davis St., Evanston, IL 60201; (847) 905-0635; pandjhenderson@gmail.com

In my memory Ray DeVoe is the only sitting president of the class to have died while in office. Ray left this world unexpectedly on September 27 after a brief illness. The class extends condolences to Maureen and the family. Ray is succeeded by Bob Kirby.


My report, in the last column, that Ray had not returned my call happened because I did not know that he was hospitalized.


Jim Myers, who still plays tennis and whose students know him as Mickey Mouse, is a major force in a program known as Opportunity Inc. This highly worthwhile organization offers a program to very young children, many of whom come from broken or dysfunctional homes, teaching them the value of love, honesty, friendship, self-worth and the like. Jim’s belief is that it is easier to build a child than it is to repair an adult. I am reminded of Bob Mauk’s creation, Winners Walk Tall.


Which reminds me that Joan Mauk will be in Vero Beach, Florida, after Christmas. Frank Harrington reports on September 7 that Rosemary is now well and that her daughter and husband are living nearby. Wally Willett’s widow, Joan, formerly known to many as Pam, is alive and well and enjoys reading about Wally’s classmates. Joan McIlwain suffered through a robbery at their New Jersey house last summer. No arrests, no break in—could be a landscape worker. Bob continues with health problems but is okay. A great conversation with long-lost Bill Embree reminds me of his great play-by-play descriptions and forecasts of future events broadcast privately from what were then fully occupied stands. Mrs. Embree, who introduced Randi to the class at the Woodstock Inn, is fine. Nob Hovde says that he has three friends he has known for 77 years. I only have one, but I skype with him from New Hampshire regularly. Thanks to everyone who wrote or called—including Gerry Sarno and Clift Whiteman.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893, ranevero03@gmail.com

This column is supposed to be about classmates. I don’t know very much about their current state since most (but not all) have decided not to let me in on their doings. A couple of exceptions are Clift Whiteman, who, thoughtfully, sent me a lovely orchid two weeks ago in celebration of my release from what turned out to be a stay in a hospital run by idiots. The orchid is thriving under Randi’s loving care, which includes one ice cube per day placed in the soil. The hospital, by the way, twice told me that I had a disease that might kill me—then said that my family doctor had been notified of my admission although he was no longer associated with the hospital. The facts: I did not have the disease, I did not die, my doctor is associated with the hospital and he was never notified of my admission. I was discharged shortly after the second misdiagnosis. Be careful of hospitals.


Joan Mauk called from her home near Cincinnati, Ohio, to share good cheer and to let us know that she was okay. 


Bob Kirby sent an email announcing that there was to be a class meeting on October 17-19. Unfortunately, this column will appear after said date. The alumni records office told me that a man named Hunter at 646-3200 was the person one should talk to about this. I called president Ray Devoe to share this information. He was not in and I have not heard from him.


I have previously mentioned Jim Birney’s wonderful book of poems. In future columns I will print some offerings from our talented and sensitive classmate. 


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

In May Randi and I enjoyed dinner on the patio overlooking the canal and moored yachts with Joan Mauk—great company and a delightful setting.


Bob McIlwain arranged for an excellent luncheon halfway between Vero Beach and Palm Beach, Florida, for a group that included the McIlwains, Frank Harrington, Joel Leavitt and Veda and Randi and me. Thoroughly enjoyed by all.


Tommy Ruggles reports that Joanne Harris (George’s wife) sent him an article about the extraordinary friendship between Lee “Sak” Sakorin and well-known boxer “Hurricane” Carter. Black, schooled in New Jersey’s mean streets and professional boxing, a furious mauler in the ring and, after his release (following nearly 20 undeserved years in prison and a reversal of his conviction by Judge Sarokin), a figure who embodied near beatific acceptance of the brutal hand dealt to him. Years later the dying Carter said to Sak, “I wanted yours to be the last voice I hear because you gave me my life back.”


I called Ken Clark, who is in great shape, to report the sad news that Charlie Abbe, my freshman-year roommate and later his, had died. 


I learned from the alumni magazine that 38 from the class of ’40 remain. This prompted a call to the alumni records office, where I learned that there were 305 of us ’50s remaining above ground as of June 27. I also note that the class of ’35 still writes a column—do the numbers.


A note from Varney Truscott bears the unhappy news that Lud passed away on January 22 from complications from a stroke.


Also, Peggy Smith writes that Girard “Jerry” Smith died after a prolonged illness on February 20. The class and I extend condolences to both of these ladies.


Adding to the gloom, the College reports the deaths of G. Renfrew “Rennie” Brighton on October 23, 2010; Emil Hudak on March 30; Harold A. Polson on November 16, 2010; Edward Slade Sawyer on May 9, 2013; and Owen “Rock” Smyth on December 23, 2010.


Please, send me some good news if you can.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

I am sorry for the abbreviated column in the last issue. In late January Randi awakened me at 7:30 a.m. by saying, “Honey, there is water in the carpet in my bathroom.” To capsulize, water had corroded a section of copper pipe beneath the concrete slab on which our house (like tens of thousands in Florida) is built. We lost our carpeting, the tile floor in the kitchen and front hall, the cabinetry in the kitchen and one bathroom, and airborne moisture caused $1,200 worth of damage to our 110-year-old family heirloom grandfather clock in addition to the major disruption of our well-ordered and aging lives. We were fortunate to be able to rent a house just around the corner from No. 1835 in which we lived for seven turbulent weeks. We are now back at home thanks to the valiant efforts of Keith Grella and his Service Master crew. He told us that he would have us back by March 15 (when the owners planned to return to our rented house) and he did! Truly a man of his word.


Frank Harrington called to offer his sympathy for this ordeal after reading the last “column.” We had a great chat. Frank is as well as his age permits—going to the gym as often as possible. We agree that the nation needs help and are both glad to be above ground.


We dined recently with Bob Mauk’s widow, Joan, an old and valued friend. She had called to break the sad news of the sudden death of Skip Fauver’s wife, “E.” Joan misses playing tennis as much as I do, but life continues to offer hope and challenges. Clift Whiteman, who with Joan now lives in Naples, Florida, reports having seen Nob Hovde and Harry VanBenschoten recently. Speaking of Nob, I called him a while ago. He answered the phone in an unfamiliar voice. I asked, “What the hell is wrong with you, Nob?” He said, “I must have a bad cold. I’ve been in bed ever since I got up this morning.”


Randi and I passed an especially pleasant evening meal with Bob and Joan McIlwain and Jack and Jill Harned. We all agreed that it’s good to be alive.


There was little or no talk of illness, which, of course, is all around us.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

John Caldwell reports that he and three other fellows (including Paul Stone ’60) have been playing bridge every Wednesday evening for more than 25 years. They have finished three days of concentrated bridge playing in the Northern New Hampshire Contract Bridge Championships. John suggests that classmates might well take advantage of the attractions offered by the College Grant, whose 25,000 acres border Maine to the east and Canada to the north.
Lee “Sak” Sarokin’s voluminous note will be shared during this and subsequent columns. Lee retired from the U.S. Court of Appeals in 1996 and moved, very happily, to Rancho Santa Fe, California, where he reports a warm day high of 73 and a cold spell low of 72 degrees and that, “ Somebody actually reported seeing a cloud one day.” Sounds like a smooth life, Sak.
Bob Thomson reports winning sailboat races in J-22s on the Delaware River with his son, daughter and grandson in 2005 and 2006 and winding up champions. 
A casual conversation during a Hanover football game brought Joe Medlicott together with Lansing Reed, my best friend in sixth grade in 1937 and a member of the Dartmouth class of 1947.
Skip Fauver’s wife, “E.,” reports that they will not be coming south this winter. We’re sorry about that, E. and Skip.
Since this august magazine committed what I believe was an unpardonable sin in 2010, ceasing the publication of obituaries in print and only online, I have been remiss in failing to report the deaths of classmates. Here is a list. (Numbers in parentheses are pages in our 50 yearbook in which personal biographies, if available, appear). In 2010 Robert “Bob” Krom, December 4 (172). In 2012 William “Bill” Sullivan, November 4 (313); Strueby Lloyd Drum Jr., November 10. In 2013 Thomas E. Richmond, January 1; Warren “Bud” Nagle, January 20 (236); Bruce A. Rogal, February 8 (272); James “Cav” Cavanaugh II, March 23; Carl N. Reed Jr., March 24 (266); James “Jim” Pressey, April 29 (260); Earl “Put” Putnam, May 2; Edward “Ed” Sawyer, May 9 (284); Pieter “Piet” von Herrmann, July 1 (339); George C. Carpenter III, August 2 (55); William “Bill” Ziegler, August 4 (368); Eric “Rick” Miller, August 29 (219).
—Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@gmail.com

“Da Prez,” as Tommy Ruggles likes to call himself, offers two tidbits that I pass on for the benefit of those of you who are not in his e-mail loop. First, to kick off our 60th reunion, which will take place next year, he hopes to assemble as many musical ’50s as possible for a concert with the Upper Valley University Chorus to be held in Spaulding Auditorium.


Volunteers seriously solicited! He got the idea in June when he met with Punchy Thomas ’49, who “more or less” ran the ’49 60th. Wow! I first met Punchy in 1974 when I attended the ’49 25th to get ideas for our 25th in 1975. For more about the concert, contact reunion chairpersons Walt and Ro Lindenthal or Tom. Second, for 23 years Tommy has led the Gentlemen Songsters (a.k.a. the Singing Doughboys) in the Concord, Massachusetts, Patriot’s Day parade April 20—the day the “shot heard ’round the world” was fired. Dick McSorley and Jacques Harlow have been among the group on many occasions. The singers have numbered between 31 and 54. Tommy provides World War I uniforms to all who join in. Musical ’50s are invited.


On June 14, as planned, Dolph Cramer departed Manhattan in his Model T Ford headed for Seattle, Washington. If the planned itinerary holds, the 55 Model Ts will spend June 24 in Iolathe, Kansas. Some 3,856 miles from New York, they should have been in Seattle on July 13.


I am indebted to Ginny Sarno for a very nice note in which she expressed appreciation for my efforts in writing this column.


Jilly Harned has to be an extraordinary photographer. She sent us a photograph of Randi and me, taken at a dinner party we attended last winter. If we felt as good as we look in this picture, we would try out for mixed doubles in the U.S. Open. Among those we saw at the party were the Fauvers, McIlwains, Joan Mauk, Harneds, Hoods and others who are noted on notes that, I am sorry to say, I have lost. Apologies. Let me hear your news.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

The alumni relations office informs me that the Kiewit Computing Center, built during the Kemeny years, was demolished to make way for the Haldeman Center, which houses our Dickey Center for International Understanding. On April 17, 2009, a dedication of the McCulloch Conference Room, a gift from Sandy and Dottie McCulloch, took place. Sandy is chairman of the Dickey Center’s board of visitors.


I briefly mentioned “Red” Austin’s book in the last column. I had not then read it. Now I have! Retrieving Times is a spellbinding account of the experiences of a young boy growing up in rural Vermont during the 1930s and 1940s, of the regular country people populating his world. He has captured the tight-lipped, understated yet hilarious humor of those folks to perfection. I highly recommend Retrieving Times by Granville Austin, published by White River Press.


The Gordie Hoods and Frank Harrington and Rosemary spent five great days as the guests of the Bill Pulleys at their mountain getaway in Cashiers, North Carolina, in October. Torrential rain dampened the football but not the spirits of those who attended the Penn weekend mini on October 2-4. They were Ray and Maureen Devoe, Bob Kilmarx and daughter Elizabeth, Jacques Harlow, Bob and Joan McIlwain, Gordon and JoAnn Hood, Jack and Jill Harned, Dave and Karen Taylor, “Fizz” and Marge Nichols, Joe Medlicott, Doug and Meredith Smith, Jim and Bette Moore, “Newc” and Sally Eldredge, Sue Matless, Joel Leavitt and Gail Hano, Bill and Terri Carpenter, Jim Lyons and Tom and Janot Ruggles. Jim and Bobbie Birney had planned to attend, but doctor’s advice was, “Don’t go.” I’m sorry about that, Jim. It was a highly successful precursor to our 60th, and possibly last official, reunion, which is scheduled for June 14-16. This will be a bittersweet occasion and Prexy Ruggles urges everyone who can to be there.


Dave Taylor has been spending time becoming a jack-of-all-trades in Lebanon, New Hampshire, while helping to assemble a house for Habitat for Humanity.


President Kim was seen standing in the rain on the sidelines throughout the victory over Columbia. Bless him.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com 


I don’t remember anyone named Granville Austin being in our class. I very well recall a fellow named “Red” Austin. The March 13 issue of the Valley News observes that, although folks still call him Red, Granville’s hair has changed color and that the White River Press has published his book, titled Retrieving Times. Having lived, among other places, in Norway, Vietnam, England, Lebanon and India, he chose his growing up years in what was then the bucolic town of Norwich, Vermont, as his subject.


Dolph Cramer’s Model T Ford, with Dolph at the wheel, joined 52 of the 54 “Ts” that left Manhattan on June 12 and arrived in Seattle on July 15. Four thousand or so miles! Remember, this guy is our age. He made it despite having to replace the engine (with outside help) in West Point, New York, after the first day. Dolph’s comment on the last night out of Seattle, “Our scotch is almost gone.” Bless you, my lad.


Speaking of cross-country trips, the Cramer adventure reminded Clift Whiteman of the summer of 1950. He and roommate Lew “Bud” Veghte drove a Model A Ford from New York State to Fairbanks, Alaska. Attempting to allow for contingencies, they strapped seven spare tires to the roof—an unnecessary precaution. The tires that left New York rolled, intact, into Fairbanks. Having failed to get the gold mining jobs that had lured them north, they accepted an offer of $2.75 an hour from a logging company, which then attempted to cheat them out of their wages. These intrepid Tuck School executives contacted the appropriate local official, who got them their money and, by the way, became the first congressman from Alaska when it achieved statehood. They sold the Ford in Fairbanks for twice what they had paid for it.


Norman Fiering ’56, director and librarian emeritus of the John Carter Brown Library in Providence, Rhode Island, is a founder of the Eugen Rosenstock-Huessy Society of North America. If you wish to learn more about this organization, Mr. Fiering can be reached at (401) 487-8008.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

June 14-16—our 60th reunion—be there! Class-mates, wives or significant others with artistic talents are urged to contact Ray DeVoe or Ted Bamberger regarding a hoped for “showing” during the reunion.

On November 9, 2009, the Class of 1950 Senior Foreign Affairs Fellowship sponsored an address by leading Nicaraguan writer Sergio Ramirez Mercado at the Dickey Center. Listed by the College as guests of honor were Joe Medlicott, Jack and Jilly Harned, Dave Taylor, Doug and Meredith Smith, Jacques Harlow and Newc and Sally Eldredge.

Having lost his beloved Fran after years of her illness, Paul Canada has, at age 83, embarked on a double odyssey. In memory of Fran he will travel round most of the world by plane, freight/cruise ship and train all while writing the story of his life to be titled My Pilgrimage: An American Love Story. Paul plans to dictate the text then send the tapes to a “young ninth-grader,” presumably a grandchild, who will type the contents into a computer.

Joel Leavitt may be the youngest member of the class but Gerry Sarno laid claim to being the oldest first-time grandparent as he and Ginny celebrated Aedon’s third birthday. Gerry recently fielded a call from old pal, Pete Nottage.

Bob Thomson, who has raced across the Gulf Stream from Newport to Bermuda no fewer that 15 times, plans in May to sail from Bermuda to England via the Azores on a 45-foot sloop owned by son Cary. Judging by Dolph Cramer’s Model T trek and Bob’s maritime aspirations it appears that there is plenty of energy left in the class of ’50.

Sadly, I report that Dick McSorely died on November 6, 2009. He was recovering from several afflictions when, unexpectedly, the lights went out.

DAM editor Sean Plottner reports that, due to budget cuts, the magazine will no longer publish obituaries. By the time you read this, a DAM Web site will be up, where obituaries will be posted and which will allow the word count to grow from 150 words to 250. Classmates will have the opportunity to add personal recollections of departed friends. Mr. Plottner writes, “We’ll be inviting you to take an initial look at the site in a few weeks.”

Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962: (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

Kudos to Ray DeVoe for his nostalgic and evocative letter to the class encouraging those who are able to be in Hanover June 14-15 for the 60th “Touch of Class.” To set the record straight, several people have observed that I coined that logo—not true. It was coined to publicize the 25th by the late Charlie Gardner, who did the creative work for that reunion.
Our youngest classmate continues to shine. Joel Leavitt’s exhibition of non-representational photographs of patterns and forms was unveiled on February 27 at the Mulry Fine Art Gallery in Palm Beach, Florida.


In the December issue of DAM I hinted that the 60th might be our last official reunion. Not necessarily, according to Jennifer Evans Casey, assistant director of class activities, who writes, “It may be your last June reunion (as currently the 65th, 70th and 75th are in the autumn) but you guys will always be welcomed back at Dartmouth!”


It was a cold and busy winter in Florida. On the east coast we dined with Skip and E. Fauver, Bob and Joan McIlwain, Gordie and JoAnn Hood, Joan Mauk, Dolph and Beatty Cramer and Joel Leavitt. On the gulf coast we dined with Charley Abbe, Fred and Posy See and Bob Kilmarx and Babs Beddoes. As the years roll on these friendships mean more and more. They are precious beyond words.


Of note! The College has recently honored Dr. Peter Kilmarx ’83, DMS’90, with the 2010 Social Justice Award. Peter is chief of the epidemiology branch of HIV/AIDS prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta.


The DAM decision not to publish obituaries in the future has met with strong disapproval from some of your class officers. Three of them to whom I have spoken are wondering for whom this magazine is being published. To assume that obituaries on a Web site will appeal to people who did not grow up in a cyberworld, not a few of whom have no computer, is to make a serious miscalculation.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

Since our 60th reunion will be history when you read this (it being written in April as required by DAM) I cannot comment on what I am sure was a wonderful affair. Randi and I were unable to attend because of my worsening case of spinal stenosis. However, I must shower Jack and Jilly Harned with many, many thanks. Knowing that I can sleep only in a reclining chair, they cast about and found someone who, for a very modest fee, would have delivered one to the room of my choice. That would have solved part of the problem. Unfortunately, stenosis is a many-tentacled beast.


By the way, Randi and I have discovered an interesting and, I think, new way to approach this beast. We have bought a tricycle built for two. Two sets of pedals, side-by-side seats. It provides exercise, companionship and bemused stares from observers.


An unusually cold winter in Vero Beach was enlivened by ’50s, some of whom were Joe and Eva Sardella, Bob and Joan McIlwain, Joan Mauk, Gordon and JoAnn Hood, Alex and Twinks Hoffman, Jack and Jilly Harned, Dick and Mary Frey, Skip and E. Fauver, Jim and Bobbie Birney.


I had the pleasure and embarrassment of sitting next to and conversing with Jim one evening. Pleasure because he is an extremely engaging fellow. Embarrassment for two reasons: I, at last, apologized to him for not showing up at his wedding, to which I was invited to be an usher more than 60 years ago. I also told him how glad I was to meet Bobbie, about whom I had heard such complimentary things—at which he told me that I had, indeed, met her several years ago at my house! So much for growing old gracefully.


Apparently I was not the only one to be impressed by Dr. Kim’s rain-drenched vigil on the sidelines during last fall’s Columbia game. Jack Morton wrote from Javea, Spain, “Nev, Wonderful closing paragraph in your 1950 notes, Jan/Feb DAM. Certainly Dartmouth’s great good fortune to have Dr. Kim at the helm!” Thanks, Jack. I agree.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962: (772) 569 2893; ranevero03@aol.com

Joe Medlicott reports that our 60th reunion, held in June, was a resounding success thanks to the untiring efforts of Ray and Maureen DeVoe, who orchestrated an eventful three days. More than 120 classmates, wives and significant others attended. Highlights included an inspired hourlong talk by Dr. Kim; presentation of Class of 1950 awards to Gordon Hood, Frank Harrington, Dr. Bob Wilkinson and Fizz Nichols; a memorial service conducted by our new president, Jim Birney, whose always thoughtful and moving remarks were hamstrung by poor acoustics and a faulty sound system in Rollins Chapel; music by Tommy Ruggles and Lee Sarokin; a well-attended class meeting at which the gift committee voted to apportion $6,000 among the Collis Center, the Dickey Center and the Athletic Sponsor Program.


As an unwanted warmup for the acoustical problems at Rollins, a beer (which he does not drink) and a lobster (which he does not eat) stirred up Jim Birney’s gout and sent him for a short visit to Dartmouth-Hitchcock under the expert guidance of Hub Hood, Gordie and Jo Ann’s son, who was so soon to lose his beloved father.


The late Dick McSorley, posthumously gave to the class color posters made up from a lovely painting of Baker Library done by his wife, Edie. Tommy Ruggles and Joan McIlwain thoughtfully sent one to me. I’ve had it framed and hung in my study, where I see it every day. Yes, Tom, my heart and thoughts were with you all in June.


I have not often written of our classmate’s deaths in this column. DAM’s unfortunate decision to eliminate obituaries from the magazine has caused me to rethink the matter. Since not all of us have computers, I will report these sad events now and henceforth. Full obituaries will appear at www.dartmouthalumnimagazine.com. I strongly dislike and disagree with the magazine’s decision.


I am sorry to have to report the deaths of Richard Glenn Ceely, William R. Collins, Wiliam B. Gumbart, Gordon H. Hood, Anthony S. Poltrack, Charles H. Solberg, Thomas J. Sours and Robert H. Woody.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962: (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @aol.com


When my dear friend Gordie Hood asked me to become the author of this bimonthly column, I little thought that it would become my sad duty to write his obituary. What began as a joyful summer during our 60th reunion in June was soon overshadowed by his death on June 20. I am so very glad that he was able to attend reunion and to receive the Class of 1950 Award.


During a call from Frank Harrington, another class award recipient, we spoke nostalgically about his departed roommate Gordon. Frank, like yours truly, does not travel anymore but enjoys a quiet life in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, with Rosemary.


Newly minted president Jim Birney writes that he and Bobbie plan to spend time with JoAnn Hood in Vero Beach, Florida, this winter. We look forward to visits with them and JoAnn.


Dave Grinnell writes that, although he has not attended our class minis, he looks back fondly at our undergraduate days. Five years ago he and Barbara moved from Wilmington, North Carolina, to Stamford, Connecticut, where, after 57 years together, they live close to family members.


Tom Green, having read my allusion to spinal stenosis in the column, thoughtfully writes to share his experience with surgical relief from the beast, which now permits him to “walk quite well.” Tom wryly observes, “I’m afraid we’re all getting pretty old and our remaining parts aren’t working as well as they used to.” A masterful bit of quiet understatement.


Paul Canada, who completed a three-month round the world trip in March, is writing a compendium chronicling his life. He hopes to eventually have it published on the Internet. Paul plans to cruise from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, via Panama in December. From there he may cross Florida to Naples. I asked Paul if he knew Nob Hovde, who lives in Naples. “Knew him? Are you kidding? I was riding up Park Avenue in Manhattan years ago. The cab approached a bicyclist—the bicyclist was Nob!” I observe: Not too many successful photographer’s reps commuted by bicycle in Manhattan. Nob did.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com


 

The notes are short this month, as I recently suffered a flood in my home. I am hoping to be back at my computer in time for the next issue.


Recent deaths are Richard J. Arnold on December 9, 2013; Adolph B. Cramer on December 19, 2013; Warren L. Franz on December 19, 2013; Carroll A. Huntington Jr. on November 6, 2013; and Edward A. Sutton on December 21, 2013. Rest in peace, gentlemen.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @gmail.com


Aside from my continued joy at spending a 39th Christmas with my wife, Randi, the high point of the Yule season in 2013 was my receipt, in the mail, of a beautiful 63-page book with a glossy cover displaying a wonderful picture of our former president, Jim Birney, and his wife, Bobbie. It is titled An Old Folks Garden of Verses: A Celebration of Life, Love and Longevity. In addition to several bits of explanation and acknowledgements written in prose, the book contains more than 50 poems, written by Jim. They are touching and completely relevant to life, loving and longevity. It is magnificent. I don’t know whether or not Jim will sell copies but if he will, buy one.


Nob Hovde usually gives a blowout Christmas party. It must have been great because he did not give one this year and people were angry with him for not doing so. Nob is “feeling great” and is looking forward to welcoming Clift and Joan Whiteman to Naples, Florida. Bob and Joan McIlwain, Joan Mauk and Randi and I enjoyed a farewell dinner with Clift and Joan in late December prior to their departure. They have lived in Vero Beach, Florida, for several years and have moved to Naples. We shall miss them.


E. Fauver sadly reports that Skip is now wheelchair bound and cannot travel long distances.


Bob Kilmarx warns all who use computers to be aware of scam artists who prey on the unsuspecting. A plea for (financial) help from a stranded friend whose credentials have been stolen by the perpetrator is currently common.


More about “Sak” Sarokin and Dave Steinberg in the next column.


Recent deaths are Ted Bamberger on October 27, 2013; Walt Fisher on October 30, 2013; Dick Healy on October 14, 2013; George Partlow on September 30, 2013; Charlie Peskin on July 21, 2013; Ken Sutherland on September 28, 2013; and Woody Smith on October 25, 2013. Rest in peace, gentlemen.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @gmail.com


In a great note from Bill Pulley I learned that he had recently run into Robin Clayton, the late Gordon and JoAnn Hood’s daughter. She had produced a picture of a new building on the Beechwood High School campus (in Kentucky, I presume). Emblazoned on the entrance to the building was a sign saying, “Dedicated to Gordon and JoAnn Hood.” A fitting epitaph for a wonderful couple. Bill also sent me a photograph of himself, Gordon and Frank Harrington taken several years ago during a visit to the Pulley home in Cashiers, North Carolina. Bill and Martha Lee are in “reasonably good health,” although Bill suffers, as I do, from spinal stenosis. He keeps busy managing his commercial properties and through several involvements with Miami University (Ohio), including chairing the graduate school fundraising campaign.


A nice chat with Frank Harrington about the aforementioned picture divulged that he is now in reasonably good health but that he spent 10 days or so in the hospital a while ago. Frank reports that Rosemary is as lively as a kitten and into many activities.


Nob Hovde urges all, but especially sailors to read The Whiteness of the Whale by David Poyer. Nob describes it as “a readable Moby Dick and a great sea story.” He is, as usual, full of enthusiasm.


Ken Clark heeds my plea for news and sends me a lot. In my previous column, among others, I mentioned Charlie Abbe, Clift Whiteman and Joe Medlicott. Ken roomed with Charlie and has kept in touch. He spent time with Alex during his lawsuit against the College to restore proportionate alumni representation on the board of trustees. He talks with Clift frequently from his office and Joe visited Ken in Memphis, Tennessee, while accompanying his granddaughter Alicia. Ken copes with the loss of his wife of 59 years, Ellen, by continuing his law practice part-time and by skiing with his five children. He has every intention of skiing with his 10 grandchildren when he is 90. Good going, Ken.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @gmail.com


Charlie Abbe, my high school friend and freshman roommate, returned, as usual, to Concord, New Hampshire, from his Englewood, Florida, winter watering hole in April. Charlie is the fortunate owner of an island retreat on a remote lake in the State of Maine. This year “ice out” occurred on May 1 and he was there, rod and reel in hand, ready for the first trout of the season. The island and its cottage have been part of Charlie’s life since his boyhood.


Alex Hoffman and I seem to have at least two things in common: We are both members of the Dartmouth class of 1950 and we both yearn for news from classmates. Alex writes the ’51 column for the Tuck School alumni magazine, and during a recent very pleasant phone conversation he lamented the paucity of class news. Those of you who have written, e-mailed or called me know who you are. Thanks! Let’s hear from the rest of you. Alex and Twinks have recently moved from East Dorset, Vermont, to Manchester, Vermont.


I make it a practice not to call my classmate’s wives. But when two or three days passed with no response from Jack Harned after I had left word for him to call me, I called Jilly on her cell phone. I was concerned that Jack might be ill. Not so. I had reached her on what may have been the first tee of a golf course. Jilly whispered, “Nev, we have to whisper. Someone is about to tee off.” Following that event Jack got on the phone and told me that they are temporarily living with their daughter in Niantic, Connecticut, while waiting to get occupancy of their new Connecticut apartment. Their own tee time had arrived—end of conversation.


Joe Medlicott, who, being somewhere in his 80s, sounds about 30 on the phone. He has recently returned from a 12-day sojourn in England, where he enjoyed great weather and visited the hometowns of Thomas Hardy and other important writers. I neglected to ask if he had caught Stonehenge.


We see Clift and Joan Whiteman quite often since they are now year-round residents of Vero Beach. Florida. Clift and I share notes on the frustrations of dealing with Comcast, the world’s most thoughtless company. I’m sorry—that’s all, folks.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

Jim Strickler was awarded the Humanitarian Medal of Mother Teresa by Atifete Jahjaga, president of Kosovo. Jim, former dean of the Dartmouth Medical School, became involved in Kosovo in 1999 when he began working with the International Rescue Committee in refugee camps to help those affected by the Serbian conflict. When that war ended, he led the creation of exchanges that have now seen more than 200 Dartmouth and Kosovar students and faculty learn from each other in recent years. Jim has helped start the process of rebuilding Kosovo’s healthcare system, which was decimated by the war. President Jahjaga said to Jim, “We are grateful to you for all you have done for the people of Kosovo.” Bravo! Jim.


You have probably noticed that Joe Medlicott, our great and loyal class scribe, has not turned out a newsletter recently. I am guessing that Joe would like to retire. Lord knows that he long since earned the right to do so. I would like to put my “guess” to the test. Will one of you step up and offer to Joe to take on the newsletter? Maybe one of the class ladies is clever with pen and ink. If I’m in big trouble for thinking out loud on this subject, so be it. But I think I’m right. And, speaking of Joe, he recently completed a two-week nostalgic tour of Europe, revisiting sites with which he first became familiar as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division during World War ll. One such site, he reports, was the Remagen Bridge, over which, I believe, the first American troops passed on their way to Berlin.


Vero Beach, Florida, is now bereft of ’50s except for the Joe Sardellas, the Chamberlains and the H. Clifton Whitemans, who are now year-round residents here. Clift keeps busy tuning up his computer and he and Joan often join Randi and me for happy hour at the Dockside Grille, our favorite watering hole. The McIlwains, Fauvers, Freys and Joan Mauk have long since departed for northern climes.


I’m sorry to say that news of the class has been scarce of late. I leave you with more sad reports: The deaths of Merrill Boynton Jr. on April 13; Don Radley on September 26, 2011; and Austin Tobin on May 9.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com 


In the last column I briefly mentioned that I had received a call from Frank Dickinson. What I did not spell out was the broad spectrum of Frank’s current activities. In addition to conducting his international business interests, he lives in and maintains homes in Ossipee, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport and Winter Harbor, Maine. He has recently restored a 1928 Chevrolet “woodie” and a 28-foot, gaff-rigged cutter. A very busy fellow indeed. For those of us who do not have a computer or who are not on Nob Hovde’s buddy list, be informed that Nob, one of the most articulate and active correspondents in our class, has had to undergo surgery to remove a malignant tumor from his bladder. The surgery was due to occur in early July. Let us hope that it was successful. My deadline for submitting this column was June 28. Bob Funkhouser continues be super active. Having won the Los Angeles Country Club’s Senior Golf Championship in 2008 with a net score of 60, he encored by winning the 2011 tournament with net 61. Not bad for an 85-year-old duffer. Tommy Ruggles, who modestly and inaccurately signs his e-mails “A Has Been,” took his band The Ancient Mariners to Hanover in June to play for the class of ’51 at its 60th banquet. Tom reports that he and the band have “gigs aplenty” and that he continues to bash the tennis ball weekly. Good going, Tom. Joe Medlicott observes that binge drinking at America’s colleges, including Dartmouth, is a major concern. He writes that recently a junior boy and girl fell 44 feet from the roof of the Alpha Delta house and survived. The fact that they were both naked would tend to legitimize the concern about alcohol. Dave Luce has written and sent to me a monograph titled Fragments Personal and Philosophical. It is basically the story of his life.


Those who attended our 60th received a copy. Those who did not can reach Dave at 2914 N. Downer Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53211 or (414) 332-7957


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

This will be the shortest column that I will have served up to you in the seven years since I began this tour. Part of the reason may be because I am getting a little bit old and a little bit tired. The main reason, though, is because—so are you. With but a few exceptions you give me no news. Let us fire up, gang. I want to see your name in print.


On the other hand, I had best sharpen up too. I cannot read my notes about a July 31 phone call from Frank Harrington, during which he told me something about a 6 no-trump bridge hand, doubled, which left him frustrated. I do recall, however, that Frank and Rosemary are fine.


Bob Kilmarx called. He was wondering if I had Tom O’Connell’s e-mail address. To my surprise, I did not. I did have his address and phone number. Bob still has his wonderful Nonesuch sailboat, which he repurchased several years ago.


Nob Hovde continues with his avalanche of humorous and informative e-mails. One contained a frightening prophesy delivered by a former accountant for IBM that the United States will become insolvent regardless of any congressional efforts to prevent it. Another, in a lighter vein, told the story of a distressed mother frantically telling her doctor that her little girl had eaten ants. The doctor assured her that it was all right—that eating ants would do no harm. But when mother further confided that she had administered ant poison in order to kill the critters, doctor changed his mind and ordered an ambulance. The rest of the “idiot” stories were great too. Thanks, Nob.


We continue to see Clift and Joan Whiteman. They took a recent trip across Florida to take a look at Naples. Clift says, “It’s alright.” But he still prefers Vero Beach.


In a last-minute e-mail Leo Appel, whose four daughters chose not to apply to Dartmouth, joyfully announces that his granddaughter Kayla McFarland of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is entering the class of 2016.


Finally, I am sad to report the deaths of Curt Kimball on April 19, 2009; Dick Udall on August 13, 2011; and Pete Bucklin on June 16. On behalf of myself and of the class, sympathies to their families and friends.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

I am dashing off this column on August 28 just as Hurricane Irene is about to crash into lower Manhattan. My first hurricane happened in 1938. We first learned of its existence when the wind nearly blew us away. The damage was severe. Irene was announced when she was a tropical disturbance 2,000 miles away—as yet without a name. Coastal North Carolina was predicted to be pretty nearly obliterated. The TV folks have forecast something close to Judgment Day. Yet the damage was relatively minimal.


Vero Beach, Florida, was spared Irene’s wrath. But Clift Whiteman, not knowing this, was concerned for the health of the Vero Beach house, which Randi and I hope he and Joan will soon rent. Clift, by the way, reports having had a great telephone conversation with Alex and Jinks Hoffman, who are both well.


Joe Medlicott feels twinges of guilt at not having produced a newsletter for a while. Is there one among us who thinks Joe is irresponsible? If there is, he should stand and be thrashed.


Jim Birney has endured three weeks in the hospital and does not feel that he can continue to discharge his duties as class president. Jim has more than paid his dues. His words have given us inspiration and strength for six decades.


Bob McIlwain courageously battles ill health with good humor and true grit—attributes that most if not all of us need these days.


A lively phone talk with Gerry and Ginny Sarno found them in high spirits and looking forward to a Florida visit next winter.


I was sorry to learn that Gerry’s brother Joe is wheelchair-bound.


Dave Luce has produced a thought-provoking piece titled “Thoughts on Religion and Science and Nothing at All.” He will send a copy to anyone interested. He can be reached at (414) 332-7957.


I am sorry to report the passing of the following classmates since my last column: Dave Beeman, John Bunton, Stuart Kay, John Morrissey, Samuel Rogers, Ben Shaver, Cliff Spotholtz, Bob Tredwell and Richard Pierce Udall. May they rest in peace.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @aol.com


There’s lots of news for this column, but quite a bit of it is about things that didn’t happen. For example: It was virtually cast in stone that that Gerry and Ginny Sarno were at long last going to visit Vero Beach, Florida. Friends had invited them to stay on Florida’s west coast and they were going to make the 150-plus mile trip across to the East. Not to be. Something or other happened—the west coast invitation evaporated—and the new plan put them at Sea Island, Georgia, instead, 500 or 600 miles from Vero. At least we had a nice telephone conversation. Then there was the visit from Dave and Karen Taylor, who contemplated a precedent-shattering trip to Florida, which never happened. Again, a nice phone conversation with Dave.


Dick Frey’s wife, Mary, called to say that they were planning an early departure from their winter quarters in Vero Beach in order to take up residence in a retirement home in Madison, Wisconsin—no visit with them.


Another phone event with Bill Turnio, who, with wife Mary, was actually in Vero but we didn’t get to see them due to scheduling problems.


Enough already! Randi and I enjoyed an excellent lunch with Bob Mauk’s widow, Joan, whom I first met when she was 14 and visiting her cousin, my best buddy Joe Eaton, a Harvard man.


Bob Kilmarx reports that his grandson Sumner is “loving and doing well at Dartmouth” and niece Annie McLane Kuster ’77 has been elected to Congress. Annie is the daughter of Mary’s sister Susan.


Bob McIlwain reports that Tap Dancing to Work, a Wall Street Journal bestseller, was written by Carol Loomis, a one-time roommate and maid of honor of wife Joan. Bob, no stranger to health problems himself, has been keeping a watchful eye on Clift Whiteman, who has recently been hospitalized and is, at this writing, in a rehab center.


I am saddened to report the death of our loyal class treasurer, Howard “Fizz” Nichols. His passing ended 13 years of debilitating and painful decline of health, throughout all of which he stalwartly attended to our class finances. More sad news includes the deaths of John Talley, Bushnell Keeler, Ray Marchant and Richard “Sal” Putney.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

I hope you have read Cul Modisette’s bio in our 50th yearbook as I suggested in the last column. As promised, here’s more about Cul. Although he did not play it at Dartmouth, he has become the pied piper of lacrosse in Connecticut. The list of his lacrosse accomplishments is way too long to recite here but it culminates with his induction into the Connecticut Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 2011 “as a truly great contributor to the game.” More about Cul in future columns.


After a couple of frustrating efforts, Clift and Joan Whiteman have moved into their new year around residence in Vero Beach, Florida. I learned from Joan on February 28 that they were about to golf cart down to the beach for a swim—one of the perks they’ve earned by leaving Long Island. 


I lifted the receiver, said “Hello” and was asked “Is this Nev Chamberlain?” The query was made by Fred Gamble. My mind’s eye instantly pictured Fred’s brilliant red hair (now, like mine, quite white), although I had never formally met him and had not seen him for decades. Fred and his charming wife, Carol, visited Vero from Wayzata, Minnesota, for a couple of weeks, during which we enjoyed time here with them three times.


One of those times was shared with Bob and Joan McIlwain, the Whitemans, Dick and Mary Frey, Skip and E. Fauver and Bob Mauk’s widow, Joan. 


Jack and Jill Harned celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary after Christmas by taking 20 or so of their children, grandchildren and in-laws to Virgin Gorda, the British Virgin Islands, for a grand vacation on the water.


President Jim Birney reports that Tom Ruggles has been elected to the Alumni Council as the result of Jim’s submission of Tom’s name to a panel of class presidents whose classes have survived their 55th reunions. Congratulations, Tommy!


My next column will feature news from Dave Steinberg and the names of at least 16 of us who have passed from the scene. I will submit obituaries online in accordance with the edict of this publication. If you dislike this edict, speak out!


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

On February 5 Frank Gilroy was presented with the Ian McLellan Hunter Award for Lifetime Achievement in Writing by the Writer’s Guild of America East. The award is given in honor of a lifetime body of work as a writer in motion pictures or television, and it was presented to Frank by his screenwriter and director son Tony. Congratulations, Frank.


I picked up my telephone answering device and was greeted by the velvet voice of Gerry Sarno. My return conversation with Gerry and Ginny, which lasted maybe 30 minutes, was punctuated with laughter. The loudest occurred as we recalled the Woodstock Inn occasion when Ginny tore up the several-hundred-dollar class of ’50 bar bill and dropped it down the front of her dress. The manager assured me that the class of ’50 would never again darken his door—but he relented. The bill was paid and all was well.


Paul Canada paid us a short but animated visit this winter. Age has not robbed Paul of his zest for life.


In the January column I told you that a photograph sent to me by Dave Grinnell had shown Warren Cox and Dave Pittenger seated at a Green Key party with their dates and apparently sound asleep. I stand corrected. Dave says that it was he, not Pittenger, clutching that Manhattan glass.


Bob and Joan McIlwain, Nev and Randi Chamberlain and Joel Leavitt and friend dined together at a local watering hole in February.


Superbowl Sunday in Vero Beach, Florida, provided us with a highly enjoyable yet bittersweet experience. “Hub” Hood, son of the late Gordie and JoAnn, invited us, the McIlwains, Skip and E. Fauver, Joan Mauk and a couple of Gordie’s high school friends to join him and his vivacious wife, Maggie, for the game. He and Maggie treated us to a magnificent spread. It took place in Gordon and JoAnn’s condominium and, at least for me, their now-silent voices were bouncing off the walls.


We sat with Joe and Eva Sardella at a Dartmouth Club dinner recently. Randi and Eva enjoy speaking in their native Norwegian.


A northern trip this winter served to reinforce Nob Hovde’s certainty that his move to Florida was the right one.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

Pete Nottage writes from Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, that he and Lois are living in the house that they built in 1958. How many of us can say that? In that period, they have watched everything grow up around them—including their kids. Pete ruefully observes that Honolulu is growing too fast for their liking and that the island’s newly acquired railroad train is unwanted and will accomplish nothing. Pete hopes that any classmates visiting Hawaii will contact him.


Bob Kilmarx and Babs do in fact plan to visit Hawaii but only by Internet, on which they have discovered one can travel without incurring the expense, medical concerns and tedium of physical travel. On the subject of philately, Bob observes that in 1918 the post office introduced the “Inverted Jenny” acceleration of the very first mail airplane. The plane was unintentionally pictured upside down on the first sold sheet of 100 stamps. One of those stamps recently sold for $977,500!


A recent telephone conversation with Bob McIlwain disclosed the fact that he has joined me as the owner of a balance-assisting walker to help in navigating from place to place.


The Dickey Center has gratefully thanked Sandy and Dotty McCulloch for their gift of $1 million in support of the center’s Institute of Arctic Studies. Sandy stated, in part, “Our gift is in recognition of the value of the Dickey Center in fostering international understanding around the issue of climate change and its affect on people, the environment and security.”


Dave Grinnell, a fellow Theta Delt and faithful correspondent, and wife Barbara continue to live at Edgehill—an hour from Manhattan, where, Dave says, they enjoy a “motherlode of stimuli provided by our location” and where there is available “every level of assistance should our status quo change.”


During an October phone conversation with Frank Harrington he expressed frustration with the football team’s achievements—or rather lack of same. On the subject of football: Throughout the Ivy League, the stands stand nearly empty. Any ideas as to why?


I regret to announce the death of Raymond Sherwood Marchant on September 26.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @aol.com


A massive mea culpa for the misinformation that I dealt to you in the last ’50 column. Jim Birney did not resign and Ray DeVoe is not our new CEO. My sincere apologies. I had reason to believe I was reporting accurately. I was mistaken.


While disposing of some old papers dampened by Hurricane Irene’s high waters, Jacques Harlow happened upon his U.S. income tax returns for 1950 and 1951. They revealed incomes of $1,264.38 and $2,660 for those years—an impressive more than doubling in just 12 months! Those were far away and different days.


Clift and Joan Whiteman have at last signed a one-year lease on an attractive house in Vero Beach, Florida. We will welcome them on or about January 15.


Frank Harrington brought me up to date on himself and Rosemary by phone recently. Frank and I share the geriatric issues of restricted mobility.


Bill Pulley stays very busy on several fronts: managing his commercial properties, acting as the only living original member of Miami (of Ohio) University’s business advisory council, chairing Miami’s graduate school fundraising campaign. Bill, who received his M.B.A. from Miami many years ago, and Martha Lee celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary recently.


Bob and Joan McIlwain planned a December cruise from Florida through the Panama Canal to California, where they looked forward to sharing Christmas with offspring. Sandy McCulloch is the chairman of the board of visitors of the Dickey Center for International Understanding. Board members are appointed by the president of the College.


Dave Luce has sent me a copy of his 48-page (single-spaced typewritten) essay titled “Thoughts on Religion and Science and Nothing at All.” It is a scholarly work by Dave, who is associate professor emeritus, department of philosophy, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.


If you haven’t done so, read Culver Modisette’s bio in our 50-year book. I thought that I had led an interesting and somewhat unorthodox life but after reading about Cul, I feel like the man in the grey flannel suit. Fascinating! I have recent news from him of which you will read more in my next column. Space restrictions apply.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

Ivy League football on television in Florida? It’s a rarity! But it happened on November 13. Members of the Vero Beach, Florida, Dartmouth and Brown clubs were invited to view their schools tussle with the pigskin in a private room in a well-known local restaurant. It seemed like a capital idea and, indeed, would have been but for the failure of the host to provide the promised room. We were lumped together with the general public. The television was snowy and inaudible. The venue was crowded and noisy. A highly successful solution to the fiasco was provided by Joe and Eva Sardella to whose attractive oceanfront apartment we retreated. Joe provided an excellent lunch, a bottle of scotch (which the Sardellas do not drink) and some nostalgic photographs of the Big Green football team of the late 1940s.


Earlier, in October, we enjoyed dinner with Bob Mauk’s widow, Joan and the next day with Clift and Joan Whiteman. During a second Whiteman house-hunting trip the weather took an unfortunate trip to the arctic, leaving Joan wondering if “sunny Florida” really is. An excellent dinner including Bob and Joan McIlwain, the Chamberlains and the Whitemans helped to soothe the pain.


Nob Hovde, always active, teaches “challenged” youths to sail in Naples, Florida. Nob has, without really meaning to do so, acquired a quarter interest in a Caribbean island. While trying to flee snowed-in Vermont following a family-oriented Christmas trip, Nob yearns for “sunny Florida.”


Gordon and JoAnn Hood’s son Hub called nearly six months following Gordie’s death to report that his mother had passed away. So ended my close friendship of 63 years. Alas.


That sad event was followed by calls from Frank Harrington and Jim Birney, who, with Bobbie, had been planning a visit with JoAnn this winter.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

Do you remember Edward “Ned” Weir? I do not—but he was a member of our class as evidenced on page 203 of the 1950 Aegis. “Pete” Henderson, secretary of the class of ’51 and an old and dear friend and fellow Theta Delt, has told me that Ned, who apparently died on February 1, 1970, has recently received an award. He was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame of Hill House High School in New Haven, Connecticut. He was captain of the baseball team and No. 2 running back on the football team. Ned’s cousin, thinking that Ned was a ’51, notified Pete of the honor. Pete checked with the College, found that he was one of us and wrote to me about it. It’s good to have old friends—thanks, Pete.


Dave Grinnell writes that, “Barbara and I have lived at Edgehill for eight years and have enjoyed the mother lode of stimuli provided by our location one hour from New York City. We all live in independent living with every level of assistance available should our status quo change.”


A recent lovely Florida springtime evening found Randi and me enjoying a dockside dinner with Bob and Joan McIlwain, Clift and Joan Whiteman and Joan Mauk.


The McIlwains recently entertained Jack and Jill Harned, who have sold their lovely home in Norwich, Vermont, and are preparing to move to Connecticut.


Following a lecture sponsored by the Dartmouth Club of Vero Beach, Florida, we emerged into the lobby of the Moorings Club to find Cissy Grant seated at the baby grand against which leaned “Mac.”


“Will you please play ‘I’ll Take You Home Again Kathleen’?” said I. She did! There followed a Sunday afternoon type fraternity basement sing with Mac in the lead, the likes of which I haven’t heard in decades. Great fun!


Frank Harrington, bless his heart, who calls me “Uncle Nev,” continues to live in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, with his effervescent Rosemary.


Joe Medlicott continues to teach at the College. One of his courses instructs how to write a memoir. On the phone Joe’s voice rings with a timbre that belies his age. The next column will acknowledge the names of our recently departed members.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @aol.com


As promised in my last column, more about Cul Modisette: After 20 years as an advertising and public relations executive Cul changed course and opened an outdoor sports business devoted to self-propelled ecology sports requiring no machines or gadgets. He guided people into the wilderness in the United States and Canada. While doing so he came to admire the Athabascan, an Alaskan Indian nation. Cul is also the author of a book titled Honored Enemy. It deals, among other things, with Quanah Parker, leader of the Comanche, Kiowa and Cheyenne Indian tribes. Currently Cul operates a tree farm in Connecticut on which he nurtures red oak, white oak, black birch and northern white pine.


Dave Steinberg, at 83, is still teaching Asian studies full time at Georgetown University. His latest book co-authored with a professor at China’s Xiamen University is titled Modern China Burma/Myanmar Relations: Dilemmas of Mutual Dependence. Dave, who has spent many years in the Far East, taught summer school at Yonsei University in Korea in 2011. He does not feel ready for retirement.


Frank Gilroy has written a new book titled Private. By snail mail I received a postcard portraying a smiling and very handsome Frank in his Army uniform and announcing the book as a Kindle single.


Classmates and ladies we’ve seen during the winter include the McIlwains, Fauvers, Whitemans, Harneds, Freys, Cramers, Joel Leavitt and Vida and Joan Mauk.


Bill Sullivan writes with the sad news that Liz, his wife of 57 years, died suddenly of a septic infection. Heartfelt condolences, Bill.


I am sorry to have to report the deaths of the following classmates: Dave Beeman on March 14, 2011; Bruce Borden on October 17, 2011; Jay Buck on January 11; John Bunton on June 9, 2011; Phil Charron on November 16, 2010; Nelse Graves on January 7; Charles Hart on February 25; Stewart Kay on July 11, 2011; Raymond King Jr. on October 24, 2010; Archie MacAllaster on September 24, 2011; Andy McClary on April 23, 2011; Frank Moulton on October 27, 2010; Ralph Muehlig on March 14; Sam Rogers on October 10, 2010; Albert Rust on January 19, 2011; Ben Shaver on August 11, 2011; Cliff Spotholz on December 16, 2010; Bob Tredwell on June 18, 2011; Dick Udall on August 13, 2011.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

Paul Canada stopped by for a brief but animated visit. He expressed sorrow at the passing of JoAnn Hood and recalled the cordial reception accorded to reuning classmates in California by her and Gordie’s son Hub. With 80 or more miles to drive before dark and failing eyesight, Paul left earlier than we would have liked. The next day Randi and I were treated to an excellent lunch with Jack and Jill Harned. They have decided to put their lovely house in Norwich, Vermont, on the market. It’s a familiar story. What once seemed an ideal size has become a bit too big. While we wish them good fortune in the real estate market, the class will miss the hospitality the place has afforded. We regretted not seeing Charlie Abbe this year but did enjoy a nice phone visit with him on the eve of his departure for the north, where he looks forward to “ice out” on the Maine lake on which his fishing sanctuary is located. New England humor! Bob Kilmarx and family have been maple syruping/sugaring in New Hampshire for years. To his chagrin, early on he mistakenly tapped an oak. News travels fast upcountry. On his next visit to the local hardware store, the owner, head down at his desk, offered, “Heard ya tapped an oak.” There’s no place to hide. Health problems don’t deter Bob McIlwain from hitting tennis balls. I enjoyed calls from Frank Dickinson and Frank Harrington and lunch with Joan Mauk.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03 @aol.com


A postcard from Jim Birney informs me that he and Bobbie have moved to the assisted living section of their development. Time marches inexorably on, Jim.


An e-mail from Brita Reed, whom I do not know, announces that her father and mother, Joe and Eva Sardella, are enjoying a Mediterranean cruise. I Skype every few Fridays with my pal of 75 years, Lansing Reed ’48. It turns out that Brita’s last name is the result of the fact that she was once married to Lansing’s son, John. Brita reads the ’50 column and her sister Joanne takes excellent care of our investments at Raymond James.


The phone rang. I answered. On the other end were a young and vital sounding Gerry and Ginny Sarno. For several years they have thought they might get to Vero Beach, Florida, during the winter but it hasn’t happened. However, during upcoming February they have definite plans to visit Naples (Florida) and have promised to drive across the state to see us, the McIlwains, the Whitemans, the Fauvers and possibly others. We look forward to that.


Nob Hovde reports the good news that he is currently free of the cancer that he has been fighting. Nob talks quite frequently by phone with Whit Williams and attends the church also attended by Harry and Mary Lou Van Benschoten.


Jack and Jill Harned have led a busy life this year; a 50th wedding anniversary family stay in Virgin Gorda was a high point. Then there were two trips to California during the second of which Jack joined a group of his peers in a vineyard harvesting grapes! Jack picked 300 pounds. They saw Rick and Sue Miller while out West. April found them in Israel for 10 days, when they saw numerous settlements on the West Bank. As we spoke they were preparing for Homecoming weekend (Harvard). Tommy Ruggles was ordering a flatbed truck that, on the way to the game, would transport the Harneds, Joel Leavitt and friend, the McIlwains and Bob Kilmarx and Babs. I didn’t learn who would drive but Tommy will be playing his banjo past the Hanover Inn. Not bad for a bunch of 80-year-olds.

Bob relates that Casque & Gauntlet was celebrating the 125th year of its founding. Kilmarx, Harned and McIlwain were roommates at C&G during our senior year and they savored the pleasure of being together on that occasion. Bob has five great-grandchildren, and his grandson Sumner is a freshman at Dartmouth and making his mark as a member of the soccer club.


In the last column I mistakenly reported that Bob had repurchased his old Nonesuch sailboat. I erred. It was a C&C Redwing 30. Sorry about that.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893; ranevero03@aol.com

A long note from Jacques Harlow provided me with news about the mini-reunion in early October. It was attended by approximately 15 classmates and their wives/significant others. Ray DeVoe, our new CEO, had planned for a conference call during the class meeting that would permit class officers who could not attend (Jim Birney and Nev Chamberlain) to participate. Apparently it worked for Jim—but not for me. The phone rang. I answered. I could hear a cacophony of voices including, I thought, that of Joe Medlicott—I repeatedly uttered “hello.” Then came a busy signal. I hung up. End of story. No more rings.


The weekend was enlivened by Jack and Jill Harned, who entertained the group at their home with their usual panache.


Charlie Abbe, a valued friend since high school, sadly informs me that Ken Clark’s beloved wife, Ellen, has passed away. Heartfelt condolences, Ken.


Joanne Sardella ’83, the daughter of Joe and Eva Sardella, is employed by Raymond James Financial Services and has recently given us some very sound financial advice.


Clift and Joan Whiteman have been to Vero Beach, Florida, several times in search of a suitable house. So far their efforts have been frustrated by difficult owners. We very much hope they will ultimately succeed.


After reading Bob Kilmarx’s story of reacquiring his old cruising sailboat, Bob Mauk’s widow, Joan, called to see if I had Bob’s address. I did. She expected to be back in Vero in early November.


Bob McIlwain reports having seen the Harneds, Hoffmans and Bob Kilmarx and Babs at Squam Lake in New Hampshire last summer.


We had hoped to pay a visit to Bill and Martha Lee Pulley at their home in Cashiers, North Carolina, last fall but could not because of my health.


Jim Birney has turned over his class presidency to Ray DeVoe in recognition of Ray’s recent significant contributions to class affairs. Jim reports that his health is improving but that Bobbie still suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome.


My daughter Lynn took a course with Joe Medlicott in Hanover several summers ago. Her comment was, “How lucky you were, Dad, to have had such a wonderful classmate.” Be of good cheer.


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 N. Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893: ranevero03 @aol.com


Bob Funkhouser writes that he really enjoyed the 60th reunion in June and that his enjoyment is enhanced by Edie McSorely’s painting of Baker, which is now framed and hanging in his bedroom. Good thing that Bob didn’t have to give up golf after the reunion because “to get the picture home I stuffed the tube in my golf bag. Then forgot about it. Some weeks later my caddie pulled it out with my six iron and, low and behold, there it was.” 


If only I could include pictures in this column. Dave Grinnell has sent me some photos taken at the Theta Delt house one Green Key weekend. One in particular is hilarious. It shows the late Warren Cox and Dave Pittenger in tuxedos, begowned dates seated between them, old-fashioned glasses clutched firmly, each of them apparently sound asleep! 


Ken Rothchild writes to express his distress at the news of Gordie Hood’s death. Ken and Nina spend their summers on New York’s Fire Island. Joe Medlicott, prince of Piermont, wordsmith extraordinaire, writes that he and Dave Taylor plan to attend a football game. “We play Sacred Heart, a name not etched sharply in my alleged mind.” 


Speaking of football, what a wonderful turnaround we’re witnessing this year. 


Clift Whiteman told aforementioned Joe that if Dartmouth won even one game before Homecoming he and Joan would come north for the Yale game. Of course, we won two and the Whitemans had a great weekend with the Medlicotts. 


When I last checked Bob McIlwain was back home after six weeks of treatment for infections. Bless you, Bob. 


Since obituaries no longer appear in DAM, here is how to access them on the website created by the magazine: Type into your computer, dartmouthalumnimagazine.com; when the webpage appears, click on obituaries; when prompted, type the two words appearing in jagged, hard-to-read letters into the box. Voodoo communications in my view but there it is. Be of good cheer. 


Nev Chamberlain, 1835 North Garden Grove Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32962; (772) 569-2893


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