In this National Bicentennial Year, June 8 will mark Dartmouth's 204th Commencement. Approximately 725 undergraduates will receive baccalaureates. Commencement inevitably revives memories of June 20, 1922, when 222 of us - the last of the small classes - received our degrees. Thirty-five more Twoters received diplomas later so the total graduates in the Class numbered 257. And many among us who did not complete the course have over the years shown outstanding loyalty to the College.
Our Commencement Program is a priceless memorabilia. Dick Stetson was class president, Brisy Brisbin vice president, Frank Horan secretary and Stan Miner treasurer, JohnnyCarleton was class marshall assisted by JackBlunt and Russ Putney. The class officers and Jack Dodd, Charlie Earle, Chip Hopkins, GeneHotchkiss, Johnny Johnson, Rex Malmquist and Gin Plumb were the executive committee. RoyBall, Bob Burgess and Ted Davidson were the auditing committee. Class Day and Commencement speakers included Gaylord and TroyerAnderson, George Brooks, Kip Orr, Pop Orth,Had Pinney, Win Ranney and Dick Stetson. Seven of these 24 men sadly are no longer with us, but 17 - with profound thanks from all classmates - remain active in the fellowship of '22. The hill winds will never forget their names.
Dr. Norm and Marian Crane will be at Commencement to see their grandson James H. Reynolds III receive his degree while his younger brother Jeff '77 will undoubtedly applaud.
But, as usual, there is also some regrettable news. During recent years the feasibility of continuing our '22 Spring Frolic in Hanover has become increasingly questionable. This past April the question resolved itself when due to insufficient attendance the gathering had to be called off. Several classmates who regularly attended these happy occasions have sorrow-fully passed away. Others for compelling reasons, mainly illnesses of their own or their wives, were unable to return this year, and it would be irrational to assume that these difficulties will decrease. So, our Spring Frolics, which provided so much enjoyment, will henceforth belong to happy memories. But not all is lost, and from now on the Class will concentrate on the Post-50th Reunion every June. Twenty-Two can then join with other contemporary classes and have a large and most enjoyable assembly. You'll hear more about it later, but start thinking now about making the 1976 Post Fiftieth a gala gathering for '22.
Dr. Ray Millemann has returned to Oregon: Box 3, Murphy, Ore. 97533, thereby restoring 1922's roster to 21 fortunate states with classmates.
Carroll Dwight, our dedicated class treasurer, underwent surgery at University Hospital, Boston, in mid-April. Every classmate sincerely hopes that by now Carroll is back in fine trim and that he and Nan are enjoying a most pleasant summer at Lake Sunapee.
October 10-11 will be Hanover's 1975 homecoming weekend for thousands of Dartmouth families. They will joyfully make their autumnal pilgrimage to the North Country when its unique color extravaganza is most spectacular. The homecomers will delight in the incomparable pleasure of meeting once again with classmates and other friends in the traditional fellowship of Dartmouth.
That Saturday afternoon, October 11, Dartmouth will play Penn in the 43rd football game between these two old rivals. Each team has 20 victories - two games were tied - making this 1975 contest a genuine tie-breaker. And where can you go to a football game in a more truly collegiate setting?
This extraordinary foliage weekend always attracts numberless sightseers to the North Country. "No Vacancy" signs will punctuate the roadsides. But not for Twoters, because IkeMiller has again arranged accommodations for a limited number of classmates at Howard Johnson's White River Motel. These comfortable rooms are available on a two-night, Friday and Saturday, basis. If you want a reservation act now. Simply write or phone to Ike: Gen'1. Walter I. Miller, RFD Box 236, Thetford Center, Vt. 05075, or telephone 802-785-2012.
On Saturday, October 11, at 11 A.M. the Class will assemble for its usual pre-game luncheon in the Drake Room at Hopkins Center. For fellowship, food, drink, and convenience - only a short stroll to the stadium - it cannot be topped. Forty-six of the class family enjoyed it last year. After the game, beginning about 5:30, the Class will have its usual dinner in a private dining room at the Hanover Inn. Let Ike know if you are coming. Twenty-six of us thoroughly enjoyed it last year.
This October 10-11 weekend will be the only '22 gathering in Hanover this autumn. It would be a shame to miss it.
The College and the Class earnestly seek your thoughtful partcipation in the 1975 Alumni Fund. For a Dartmouth man to lose his Dartmouth loyalty is nothing less than heartbreaking. You need the only heart you'll ever have, and the only college you'll ever have needs you.
Have a happy, healthful summer.
Secretary, 11 Brock way Rd. Hanover, N.H. 03755
Head Agent, 106 Magnolia Terrace, Springfield, Mass. 01108