It is June. It is sunny and hot today and Dartmouth has just completed its Commencement exercises as I write this. The Green was awash with more colors and pageantry this year than ever, as many of the graduates wore colorful, knitted scarves over their black robes, signifying their new house community allegiances. Three of those graduates owe their origins to ’53s. George Sarner’s, Richard Greene’s and Fred Whittemore’s grandchildren marched proudly down the aisle to receive their diplomas, binding our class to yet another class by their graduation. Congratulations to all! Our most prolific writer, Peter Bridges has written a lovely memoir and paean to the beauties of nature that have not been devoured by thoughtless human omnivores. He traces his deep love for our natural world as he moved from country to country throughout his career. Though he was generally stationed in large cities, he managed to seek out and enjoy the natural beauty of each area. He enthusiastically tipped his cap to Dartmouth and the joy of climbing Mount Moosilauke, even replicating it at our 60th reunion. Peter, can you do it again at our 65th? President Collins writes that it is not too early to plan to join our classmates at our special 65th reunion. It will take place in Hanover September 28–30, 2018. There will be a home game and our accommodations will be provided by the College either at the Hanover Inn or another premier spot, depending on the numbers. Put Blodgett is chairing the event and Dick Fleming is at work boosting attendance. The College is absorbing most of the cost for our 65th, so individual charges will be modest, but are yet to be determined. So put it on your calendar and join us for what looks like a wonderful weekend. With sadness I offer our class’ condolences to the families of our departed classmates: Jackson Hall, John Harris, David Folger, George High, Mayo Johnson, Harry Walburgh Jr., Kelly McBride and Roger Warner.

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