1975

1975

It is quite rare (never) to receive unsolicited praise in this column, let alone from a classmate with whom I have had no contact in nearly 48 years. It is less rare that this praise should be bestowed upon another of our classmates. However, it is extremely rare that this should arrive via snail mail of all things!

Bob Buckley was clearly thoroughly impressed with the efforts of Bill Beyer as a moderator of the Burlington, Massachusetts, town meeting. Suffice to say I was also impressed that Bob would take the time to pen a letter in support of one of our classmates. His closing remarks in the letter were, “Through his guidance, the Town of Burlington has become a major commercial hub and most recently has become a suburban center for the life sciences industry. His leadership and sharp mind are attributes that reflect proudly on Dartmouth.” Well stated, Bob.

Through the wonders of the internet comes this from George Hammond: “Two weeks ago I interviewed Joel Richard Paul, the author of Indivisible, a new book about Daniel Webster, for the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco. It has almost 5,000 views already and should interest the Dartmouth community. If you search ‘George Hammond Indivisible’ the video will show up on the first page.”

1973-1977

I also heard from Michael Hutton, who reminded me that he roomed with Bob Dray in Wheeler Hall. He tells me that he retired on his 68th birthday in 2021 and is thankful every day for being healthy, active, and curious about the world. After a full career as a psychotherapist and psychologist, he is living with his wife, Rebecca, in Amherst, Massachusetts, along with his stepdaughter, Emma, who is a student at Greenfield Community College, and his mother-in-law, Martha. They have three dogs, with whom they hike nearly every day in the woods in the local hills. He stays active through biking, kayaking, swimming, and going to the gym. He is looking forward to some snow for cross-country skiing (I suspect his wish was granted around the year-end holidays!). He also states, “I am volunteering for reproductive rights and for a local land trust as well as writing a great book that may someday see print. It’s all about the journey and not the destination.”

He is in touch with Rich Laffin in St. Paul, Minnesota, who is still working as an architect and painting and, with his wife, Susan’76, enjoying grandparenting! John Koltes, Rick Niess, and Fred Cann check in occasionally to make sure they are all still breathing.

For me, I intend to keep breathing a little while longer.

Vox clamantis in Tejas.

—Stephen D. Gray, 3627AvenueM, Galveston, TX 77550; (650) 302-8739; fratergray@gmail.com

Stephen D. Gray