Classes & Obits

Class Note 1969

Issue

July-August 2021

Classmate Russ Granik tells his story in our 50th reunion book, and his reflections speak to all of us. His distinguished career as a lawyer and deputy commissioner of the NBA is traceable to Alumni Gym, where John Mathias and Doug McKenna joined him for 3-on-3 games, forging lifetime friendships. Dudley Kay, also an aspiring ballplayer, shared the highs and lows of freshman life. Russ wanted passionately to play for the College, and he narrowly missed making the freshman team, but that experience sparked a leadership career that led him all the way to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Russ roomed for three years with Steve Barrett, whose best memory he describes thus: “Being lucky enough to be randomly assigned to room with Russ Granik.”

Steve has another lifelong friend in Nick Perencevich, who also has had an impressive career in medicine, including teaching medical students at Dartmouth. Nick reports that the spring thaw this year found him stopping by the DOC House, where he found “15 guys on the roof” and our amazing project nearing completion.

Head agent John Myers praises the many classmates who have stepped up not only to pay dues, but also to contribute to the renovation of the iconic DOC meeting place. We plan to convene there in October for the ribbon-cutting and celebration of Homecoming. Thanks to Paul Tuhus, our tireless on-site reporter, there are terrific documentary photos on our website. It’s not too late to add your name and contribute to the cause. No amount is too great or too small. Future generations will share in the Dartmouth experience as they relax, enjoying Occom Pond and giving a rouse for the class of 1969.

As life recovers post-pandemic, Zoom will undoubtedly be a permanent communication link. Since early 2020 we have held executive committee meetings, play and poetry readings, seminars, 12-step gatherings, casual conversations, and even virtual wine tastings! Recently Ray Saginur, an infectious disease physician, drew quite a crowd for his discussion of the pandemic and the science protecting us. Several physician classmates joined in, including Steve Horwitz, Peter Elias, Ben Romney, and others. (Forgive me if I missed someone!)

Arthur Fergenson, the organizer of dozens of our online events, also hosts “Saturday Night at the Movies” using Amazon’s group viewing feature. After the film we gather for discussion on Zoom with classmates knowledgeable about stage, cinema, and the arts. Among our favorite participants are classmates Carol “The Duds” Dudley and Nanalee Raphael, the reliable anchors of the Dartmouth Traveling Players, our Zoom drama group. (All are welcome, no prior theater experience required, and there are audience seats for those who simply want to enjoy the play.)

We will see you at Homecoming in Hanover next October! Check the website, newsletter, and email listserv for the latest updates. Send news!

John “Tex” Talmadge, 3519 Brookline Lane, Farmers Branch, TX 75234; (214) 673-9250; johntalmadgemd@gmail.com