1923

It may seem very far away now, but our 60th reunion will be here before we know it. The reunion committee has suggested that I mention the dates (June 10-12, 1983) now, so that classmates can begin to plan ahead. Let's hope that lots of people can be there!

A few weeks ago Truman Metzel sent me the sketch reproduced near this column. He has done this occasionally in the past to reassure me as to his continued good health and good cheer. I knew his birthday was imminent but not the exact date. Trusting to luck, I called him in Scottsdale and found I had hit the jack pot. He answered my call just a few minutes after he and Bunny had returned from a champagne partycelebrating the event. Needless to say both were in good spirits.

Many of us have reached the milestone of the eighties. Few have done so more gracefully and vigorously than has Truman. Just as a reminder, therefore, of his many good works on behalf of 1923 and Dartmouth, I offer you the following quote from the "Golden Review of 1973 "Successful business executive: lieutenant colonel, Army Air Corps; consultant to the Air Force Material Command; Legion of Merit; class officer during our college years and twice as an alumnus; 1968 "Bequest Chairman of the Year"; devoted servant of Dartmouth College for 50 years these are only a few of the honors that have distinguished Truman Mctzci s career."

The following news item is from the Baton Rouge, La., Morning Advocate: With an umbrella shading him from the sun the aged priest appeared unconcerned with the crude surroundings in which he observed Palm Sunday. Msgr. Carlos Sanchez quickly transformed a weathered picnic table into an altar that appropriately blended into the rustic countryside. As he placed his small vials of water and wine on the* table and arranged the altar cloths, the priest explained the significance of Palm Sunday and voiced his pleasure at being invited to officiate at an Indian religious ceremony A massive, tree-covered hill at his front, the Mississippi River at his back, and an ancient pecan tree towering overhead. Msgr. Sanchez offered mass."

The preceding quote came to Charlie Zimmerman from Carlos with the following note: "I wanted to be a medical missionary in China when a freshmen at Dartmouth like George Meleny's brother. When I was older I wanted to be a missionary to the Amerindians. On Palm Sunday last I had the happiness of saying mass for my beloved Indians. I enclose the article. My best in Christ, Carlos.

We have just had the following sad news from Tommy Chambers in Montgomery. Ala., via Cap Palmer: "Gertrude died a few days after your letter arrived. I am glad we came here last year. She was able to enjoy our family for quite a while. Our great-granddaughter is now a year old. Everybody is so kind to Pat and me."

As I prepare these notes, which will be the last until the October issue, Connie and I are looking forward to Class Officers' Weekend on May 7 and 8. We are also planning on meeting with Chet Bixby and Herb Home to talk about the details of our 60th. You will undoubtedly receive a preliminary report during the summer of events to come.

In the meantime, good health and happiness to you all during the months ahead.

Truman Metzel '23 celebrated his recent 81stbirthday with great good humor by dashing offthis delightful self-portrait.

Box 2 Francestown, N.H. 03043