These past two months have been a period of highs and lows for the class. On the plus side was the Hudson Valley, New York, 80th birthday maxi, which Charlie Buchanan and Phil Beekman organized. Twenty-eight classmates and 25 wives and widows enjoyed a wonderful three-day adventure in the Hudson Valley visiting West Point, Hyde Park, the Vanderbilt home, Val-kill, and the Boscobel house and gardens. They stayed at the famed Thayer Hotel at West Point and sailed the Hudson on a cruise. Thanks to Charlie and Phil for a wonderful trip!


Homecoming Weekend with its big win over Columbia was the setting for the Friday gathering at Zimmermann Lounge, hosted by Bonnie and Dave Siegal, with food, drinks and snacks and where marchers joined their classmates before and after the bonfire. This was followed by the class meeting on Saturday morning at which 28 classmates convened and carried out class business for the coming year.


President Allen Collins presented a Legacy of Leadership Award to Phil Beekman, Bonnie and David Siegal, Bill Chamberlain and Bob Simpson. Then followed the Columbia football game with dinner at the Inn that evening. There was more football and friendship at Dave and Bonnie Siegal’s home after the Cornell game and then, following the Princeton game, at the home of Marilyn Paganucci. Many thanks to all our hosts.


As if all of this were not sufficient for our active octogenarians, there followed the dedication of the magnificent 1953 Commons at which 67 classmates proudly toured the new facility. Sadly, our next event was the memorial service for Donald Carpenter Goss,at which President Emeritus James Wright extolled Donald’s character and contributions to Dartmouth, Len Gochman delivered a touching eulogy, and Allen Collins spoke for the class. A reception followed for the participants and guests.


And then there were the holiday gatherings. Twenty-two members of the class met at the Yale Club for a luncheon organized by Cathy Callendar and Bob Malin while the Hanover contingent of 26 dined and enjoyed the music of Dennis Thron at their luncheon. Donna and Chuck Reilly made the arrangements for this festive event.


We wish you all a healthy and fulfilling 2012.


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