Peter Bridges, a career diplomat and former ambassador to Somalia, has authored a new book. He has written two other books as well as more than 70 articles that deal with history and diplomacy. He discussed and signed copies of his new book, Donn Platt: Gadfly of the Gilded Age, at the Library of Congress. It is a biography of Donn Platt, whose many interests led him to work as a diplomat, journalist, humorist, poet, playwright, Army general, strong supporter of Abraham Lincoln and critic. Through Platt, Peter is able to convey much of the corruption and injustice of the Gilded Age. Ray Alexander—who hasspent his entire career in the healthcare profession as a CEO of Mt. Sinai Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; a teacher at Wharton, Columbia and Wisconsin Medical School Hospital; a commissioner of health and medical insurance for the New York City Department of Health; and an author of many articles relative to this field—has written a book titled Risk Management in Healthcare Institutions. Both books offer the wisdom of their authors’ experience as well as their scholarship. Almost 60 years out and still contributing. What a class!


Harlan Fair reports that our sensational 60th is coming along well. Fred Stephens and his crew have more than 100commitments so far. Come join us. After 60 years we know how to do it right! You’ll have a great time. We also know holiday luncheons. There will be one on December 16 at noon at the Yale Club in New York City and one on December 17 at 11:30 a.m. at the Parker House in Quechee, Vermont. Look for more detailed information in our ’53 Out.


Allen Collins was proud to accept an award on behalf of the class from the College at Class Officers Weekend. The award read, “In Pursuit of Excellence: Dartmouth College recognizes with deep appreciation the extraordinary achievement of the Class of 1953. Special recognition for strong efforts in building and maintaining class community.”


Sadly I report the passing of our classmates Philip Fenton and Richard Dosik, and offer the class’ most profound sympathies to their families.


—Mark H. Smoller, 4 Schuyler Drive, Jericho, NY 11753; (516) 938-3616; dartmark@gmail.com