1969

1969

CLASS NOTES

The magnificent Dartmouth Outing Club House, stunningly renovated and restored by the class of 1969, was home base for our 75th birthday party in June. Dozens of classmates—too many to listattended the three-day bash. In similar fashion, so many classmates attended and contributed to the DOC class project we can’t name everyone, but there are photos of the DOC House and the 75th birthday gathering on the web. A century ago, the class of1900 raised the funds originally to build the house, completed in 1929. At the entrance today, a prominent commemorative plaque marks our restoration of the place, alongside the proud class of1900 original. Our major remodeling of the place, years in development, features inspiring views of Occom Pond as well as completely new kitchen and dining areas. Elegant New England-style furnishings, magnificent fireplaces, historical artifacts, period photographs, and spacious meeting areas complete the scene.

A cozy new alcove, again with a romantic view, is dedicated to Paul Tuhus, whose devotion and daily attention (for years!) was essential in getting the work done. At the birthday dinner, we also honored two classmates with the Dartmouth Class of1969 Outstanding Service Award. Recipient Rick Willets deserves our gratitude for the immeasurable time and energy—not to mention the creativity and infectious humor— he has contributed for decades. Awardee David Lyon Nichols, who passed away in 2013, was the creative genius on the remarkable team that produced our reunion books and those of many other classes. Paul Tuhus accepted the award in memoriam on David’s behalf.

John Beck and Roy Hitchings led an afternoon session devoted to “the big questions in life,” a wide-ranging discussion harking back to Peter Schaeffer’s memorable remarks at our 50th reunion. Speaking of hard work and notable contributions, the heavy lifting around the birthday party was accomplished by Dona Heller and Norm Jacobs. They arrived early, stayed late, made the arrangements, planned the itinerary, hauled in countless boxes and refreshments, and assured that everyone had a great time. Some of us ran into major problems with air travel, and others were concerned about cost.

If a trek to Dartmouth is hard to manage, remember our impressive array of events on Zoom. Around 150 class members have attended at least one seminar, group, play reading, poetry jam, movie night, 12-step group, or class meeting. (For example, the Zoom 12-step group has met every Sunday evening for more than two

years.) The events are announced on our class website and in the ’69 Times or you can contact me. Final note: Homecoming (October 29) is on the horizon. Make your travel plans and reservations now, and we will see you in Hanover for the Harvard game! In the meantime, take a moment and send me your latest news.

Vox clamantis!

—John “Tex” Talmadge, 3519 Brookline Lane, Farmers Branch, TX 75234; (214) 673-9250; johntalmadgemd@gmail.com

John “Tex” Talmadge