With the passing of Dick Beatty I am reminded that he and Van Cochran during the summer of 1957 explored the Homathko Icefield in British Columbia, and, in Van Cochran’s words, “We accomplished the ascent of our second virgin summit, a mountain of around 10,000 feet that we named Mount Dartmouth. Although technically easier than the previous peak, it was a rather long climb and entailed some interesting switches, including a snow saddle inclining to 60 degrees and a summit pyramid of steep and rotten rocks with some exposure over an impressive north face.” He goes on to say they built a cairn at the peak and were delighted that the name, Mount Dartmouth, was recognized by the Canadian government.

Bruce Sherman writes, “I have just published a book in Spanish titled Are You Ready for Kids? The book is intended to target late teen Hispanic girls, engaged couples and young marrieds. It provides a perspective on the huge impact that kids will have on every aspect of one’s life and to be sure one’s ready for them.”

Put Blodgett, who returned to his farm immediately after graduation and has worked to preserve the green of Vermont since, was just inducted into the Vermont Agriculture Hall of Fame. He has also been the Northeastern Farmer of the Year. In a recent interview Put stated, “We’re only here a short period of time; try to leave it a little better than we found it.”

From the far West Fred Dorkin writes that he sees Harry Jackson from time to time. Harry lives outside Port Angeles, Washington, in a restored cabin with a view of British Columbia. Harry’s grandson, Drew, a shortstop for the Everett AquaSox, has won the most valuable player award in the Northwest League Class A League this year, his first in professional baseball.

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