1954

First the bad news: Commencing with the September/October issue ofDartmouthAlumniMagazine our Class Notes column is to be reduced from 500 to 350 words. Speculation that this change reflects the diminishing number of classmates or that as we age we have less to say is misplaced. The reason advanced by the mags moguls makes sense: We need to make room for the younger classes.

Now, here's the good news: We have greatly enhanced the online version of the bimonthly Class Notes column. Not only does the column appear online a good five to six weeks earlier than it does in print, but if you've been tracking recent changes you know that it is being expanded by the editor's periodic inclusion of the latest, up-to-the- minute news from the class and of classmates. Recent surveys of classmates to determine how many of us are checking the '54 Web site on a somewhat regular basis, either to read Pete Barker's latest newsletter or your editor's early edition of the Class Notes or to view the latest graphic or clever new feature developed by Webmaster Perry Davis, reveal that a growing number of us, exclusive of the few (one hopes) steadfast technophobics among us, do check the site regularly. While the newsletter is not limited in size and can elaborate on reported items the Class Notes column, as indicated above, must comply with space limitations. By providing interim updates to the online version classmates can now receive more timely information.

Another important reason to check the Web site regularly is to learn of those who are undergoing health challenges or of classmates and spouses who have passed away. I have agreed to chair the ’54 caring committee to alert classmates who may wish to send cards and notes or e-mails to those who may be ailing as well as notes of condolence or sympathy to a surviving spouse. Those interested in working with me on this project are encouraged to send me an e-mail at akane32@nyc.rr.com. It is recommended that you check the ’54 Web site at least once per week to view frequent updates to this column: www.dartmouth.org/classes/54 and then click on “What’s New.”

The class of 1954s 55th reunion is shaping up beautifully, according to reunion chair John Fenn. John indicates that the June 15-18 event "may well set an all time attendance record for a 55th reunion at Dartmouth." Air-conditioned rooms, all with bathrooms, are still available in the new East Wheelock Cluster, and the exciting agenda promises to provide attendees with a funfilled four-day experience.

The New York-area monthly luncheon group began its fifth year in January and now meets the first Wednesday of every month—12:15 p.m. in the Roof Dining Room of the Yale Club—except the months of July, August and December. Plan your next trip to the Big Apple and join your classmates for lunch before taking your spouse to a Broadway matinee.

650 Park Ave., #18A, New York,NY 10021; (212) 628-2147; akane32@nyc.rr.com

REUNION June 15-18