High fives for Fifty-five's (early) 35th! Some 105 classmates land 80 spouses, children, and guests assembled on the Hanover Plain for three event-filled days, which included some glorious June sunshine as well as a bit of spring rain. The highlight of this universally judged "best ever" reunion was the presentation to President Freedman of a check for $606,555.55 by reunion giving chairman John Ballard. This represents a record level of giving, both for 1955 and for the 35-year class, and, according to John and class head agent Brooks Parker, is still growing. They and their teams have produced an outstanding result for Dartmouth!
Among many programs and activities, two excellent panels were conducted by class members and spouses. The first, a women's panel including Joan Hudson (Mrs. William) and Mary Jane Alexander (Mrs. Bruce) provided opportunity for the class spouses to discuss options for the evolving pattern of living as children move on to their own families, husbands change careers or retire, etc. The second, "'55 at 55: Not Ready to Retire But Looking Elsewhere," chaired by Leon Martel and ably assisted by panelists Dick Barr, PeteBuhler, Roy Hill, Dick Mount, Dave Oberlander, and Pete Sarty, provided insight into their personal experiences in making significant changes in their careers through retirement or redirection, and was of great interest and relevance to the audience. JudHale regaled us with his "Yankee" remarks after the class dinner hosted by Jack Doyle on Tuesday night.
The class memorial service was conducted in Rollins Chapel by Roy Nyren and Joe Herring in memory of the 53 deceased classmates and our deceased class spouses. There was also the dedication of The William G. DeLana Crew Shell and we were pleased that Alice DeLana was able to be with us for the reunion.
At the class meeting, a new slate of officers presented by Lyn Brock, chairman of the nominating committee, was elected. These are: president, Bob Fanger; vice president, Ace Hall; secretary, Dick Blodgett; treasurer, Ralph Sauter; Alumni Council, John French; class agent, BrooksParker. In addition, the meeting elected an expanded executive committee of some 30 class members. Outgoing president JoeMathewson and his fellow officers, MikeGorton and Lyn Brock, were given a standing ovation by the class.
The athletic prowess of'ss continues to amaze us even with the advancing years. JoeHerring won the run, with Pete Buhler a close second. Harry and Margie' Ambrose took the tennis tournament handily. Our golfing champions are Jim Nelson, DougMelville, Pat Woolson (Mrs. Ray), BettyHayes (Mrs. Randy), Nan Darche (Mrs. Fred), and Ray Woolson sorry about that Randy! Tim Anderson provided complimentary pairs of socks for the winners.
Bill Hudson and his able crew of assistants did an outstanding job of arranging and orchestrating this reunion. As the glow from renewing friendships, remembering the good times, and making new acquaintances Fades, happy memories from this, week and anticipation of the 40th in six years pav tribute to their dedication and hard work.
110 Valeview Road, Wilton, CT 06897'