CLASS NEWS

Class Correspondent Geof Gould regularly provides Class of 1962 information to the Rutgers Alumni Magazine. In case you've missed some issues, we've collected the last several of Geof's articles here for your review. Geof is always on the lookout for new information for the RAM and, now, for our own web site. Please keep him informed at: ggould@mail.binghamton.edu.

WINTER 2007

It's hard to believe our 45th reunion is already behind us. It was a good time. It was especially good to see the healthiness of those in attendance as well as the level of activity that keeps us feeling vigorous. Many classmates have not yet retired and those who have keep busy with a range of activities, staying in shape, service to others and spending time with children and grandchildren. Before we know it, our 50th reunion will be upon us. Stay healthy and save your stock market earnings for a nice class gift. In the meantime, don't forget our Class of '62 Public Service Awards founded years ago by Richard Anderson, president of the NY Building Congress. Those awards can use your financial support. Just send a check to the Rutgers University Foundation, earmarked for the awards.

I'm very happy to report that Alan Osur, whose first wife died from cancer years ago, remarried in July. Alan and Lisa Benhammou and their families have attended the same synagogue and observed Jewish holidays together since 1984. They got to know each other even better after each became single again and are now happily married in Colorado Springs. Alan has stepped down from coaching the US Air Force Academy women's varsity rugby squad after 12 very successful years. His parting gesture at the rugby banquet? His farewell speech to the 40-member team was followed by his marriage proposal to Lisa! The Osurs have five grown children between them. Somehow, all seven of them plus the rabbi fit together under the marriage hoopa! When not teaching history at the Air Force Academy (which he loves to do), Alan plays tennis and hikes. He and Lisa have already climbed one 14,000-foot mountain (called 14ers out there) in Colorado with two more planned for fall. Alan's agreement was to read a Harry Potter book for each mountain Lisa agreed to climb! We wish all seven of them much happiness.

Bill Hausler, retired in Summerville, South Carolina, wrote to say he and his wife, Gail, were in NJ last summer for their granddaughter, Rachel's, graduation from 8th grade. Bill plays golf three times a week and couldn't wait to see the Rutgers football team resume its winning ways.

NOVEMBER 2007

Kroll Named 2007 Winner of the President Gerald R. Ford Legendary Center Award Class of 1962 Rutgers great to be honored Jan. 12 in Lincoln, Nebraska Alex Kroll, RC '62, who was an All-America center and linebacker at Rutgers, has been named the 2007 winner of the President Gerald R. Ford Legendary Center Award. To be considered for the President Gerald R. Ford Legendary Center Award candidates must have either played the Center position at the collegiate or professional level; made extraordinary contributions to his team during his football career; or have proven to be an exemplary citizen, philanthropist or business leader. "It is a thrill and an honor just to be named in the same paragraph with President Ford, Dave Rimington and Jim Otto," said Kroll. "Of course, the award means a great deal to me. I loved playing center. Ever since I was a 13 year old, 115 pound high school freshman, spending hours snapping footballs through an old rubber tire, I loved (and sweated) the uniqueness of the position – the special tests, challenges and responsibilities it gave me." Kroll is the third winner of the award – following Ford (2005) and Jim Otto (2006). Kroll will be presented the award at this season's Rimington Trophy banquet, scheduled for Jan. 12 in Nebraska. The Rimington Trophy, named for former Nebraska All-America center Dave Rimington, honors the top center in college football.

"Alex Kroll is truly a legendary center on and off of the field," said Dave Rimington. "His accomplishments on the playing field at Rutgers and in the business world at Young and Rubicam are exceptional. His establishment of programs such as "Play It Smart" illustrates his tireless commitment to improving the lives of others around him. We are pleased to recognize Alex as this year's recipient of the President Gerald R. Ford Legendary Center Award," said Dave Rimington.

Kroll was a Henry Rutgers Scholar in English Literature, captained Rutgers' first undefeated football team and was named to every All-American football team as a center and linebacker after the 1961 season. He played one year as a starting lineman for the New York Titans (now Jets.)

Kroll then joined the Young & Rubicam advertising agency and spent his entire business career there, rising from "cub" copywriter in 1963 to worldwide Creative Director in 1970 and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman in 1985.

At Young & Rubicam, Kroll oversaw the United Negro College Fund advertising from its inception. The campaign has helped raise over two billion dollars in scholarship money for the 41 historically black colleges. He also served both as Chairman of the American Association of Advertising and, in 1996 and 1997, as Chairman of the Advertising Council, the organization which produces most of the important public service advertising in the US.

At the end of 1994, Kroll retired as Chairman and CEO of Y & R, then the largest employee-owned marketing communications company in the world. It's subsidiaries included Burson-Marstellar Public Relations, Wunderman Direct Marketing, Sudler and Henessey Medical Communications, Landor Design, and Young & Rubicam Advertising, each a leader in its field. During his tenure as Chairman, the company nearly tripled in size, to over eight billion dollars in billing.

In 1997, Kroll fused his interest in sports and the problems of American youth by originating a groundbreaking program called "Play It Smart." This program is now working successfully in 140 public schools, most of them in tough, disadvantaged communities across the country. It is unique in using scholastic sports, primarily football, in a systematic way to improve academic performance and community service among the players. In the last nine years, 98% of its 25,000 participants have graduated from high school (compared to 50% in typical inner city schools) and 81% have gone on to college, 50% better than the student body overall.

Kroll has received numerous awards for his achievements. He is one of three Rutgers' players ever inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, and in 1998 became of one of 150 advertising leaders who have been inducted in the Advertising Hall of Fame. He has been honored as a Distinguished Alumnus of Rutgers and as one of the original six members of the Rutgers' Football Hall of Fame. He has been elected to the Horatio Alger Society and been honored with the Walter Camp Distinguished American Award and the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award, given to individuals who have enjoyed outstanding careers following athletic success in college.

About the Rimington Trophy

The eight-year-old trophy is presented by Canon and The Cornhusker Marriott. The award is presented by the Boomer Esiason Foundation. Esiason created his foundation in 1993 to support research and treatment of cystic fibrosis. Esiason and Dave Rimington were teammates on the Cincinnati Bengals from 1984-87. Rimington, the award's namesake, was a consensus first team All- America center at Nebraska in 1981 and 1982 during which he became the John Outland Trophy's only double winner as the nation's premiere college interior lineman.

Past recipients include Dominic Raiola (Nebraska. 2000), LeCharles Bentley (Ohio State, 2001), Brett Romberg (Miami, 2002), Jake Grove (Virginia Tech, 2003), co- winners David Baas (Michigan, 2004) and Ben Wilkerson (LSU, 2004), Greg Eslinger (Minnesota, 2005) and Dan Mozes (West Virginia, 2006). Since its inception the Rimington Trophy Award has raised over $1.03 million for its benefactor, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. It, in turn, is hosted by the Boomer Esiason Foundation which, to date, has raised nearly $60 million for Cystic Fibrosis research.

The Rimington Trophy is a fully accredited member of the National College Football Awards Association.

About the President Gerald R. Ford Legendary Center Award

The inaugural "Legendary Center Award" was presented to and named after President Gerald R. Ford who played Center at the University of Michigan. Prior to serving as the 38th President of the United States, Ford was an offensive standout for the Wolverines and was a member of the 1932 and 1933 National Championship teams, both of which went undefeated. In 1934, Ford was named the Wolverines' MVP and later starred in San Francisco's East-West Shrine Game and the Chicago Tribune College All-Star Game. In 2006 the award was presented to legendary center Jim Otto.

OCTOBER 2007

Horton Taylor, MD, wrote with news in October from his home in Mississippi. Horton and his wife, Jean (DC 62), celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary October 15 by taking a trip to Belize. At the Annual Conference of the Mississippi Academy of Family Medicine, Horton was awarded only the second Military Service Award given by the Mississippi Academy. That was quite a surprise for him, he said, because the first one went to Brig. Gen. Al Gore who was in charge of all Army Doctors assigned to Southeast Asia during a significant part of the Vietnam War. That Al Gore was a very closely related cousin of his namesake, the Ex-VP and recent Nobel Peace Prize co-recipient. Congratulations to Horton for both happy events, and to Jean as well.

We're very sorry to report the passing of Wayne Wood on October 9. Wayne and his wife, Judy, have lived in Petaluma, California, where they have owned a very successful KOA campground. In fact, they had just retired after passing the management of the campground and related businesses to their son, Chris, last June. Wayne and Judy were in NJ in September for the celebration of his mother's 102nd birthday and spent a very pleasant afternoon with Libby and me at the South Street Seaport. At some point shortly after that, it's thought that he encountered a deer tick and contracted babesiosis, a parasitic disease so uncommon that its diagnosis wasn't made in time to save him. After college, Wayne spent several years in the Army, including an assignment at the Presidio of San Francisco that convinced him to settle in California after his discharge. He earned a masters in teaching at Rutgers, married Judy, then moved back to California, teaching high school history in Novato until opening the campground in Petaluma. A "24-7" bundle of entrepreneurial energy, Wayne will be deeply missed. Our condolences go to Judy, to their daughter Jenny and her husband, and to their son, Chris and his wife and children.

In September, Walt Hoehler provided the following news to share with classmates. We hope others will share their personal or group news for the class website and/or one of the Rutgers Magazine's three annual issues. See, for example, Larry Gettleman's interesting item on our Scrapbook Page.

-- Geof Gould

A group of Lambda Chi's, class of '62, and their wives got together for a mini-reunion in September. We enjoyed good food, good wine and good friends over two days. We laughed, told stories about the good old days, and caught up on careers, marriages and kids -- make that grandchildren.

The cast of characters included; Ken Austin, former airline pilot and now small business entrepreneur, living in Vero Beach Florida; Ted Kucinsky, retired food industry executive also living in Vero Beach and enjoying the fishing and golf; Steve Matushak, retired from IBM after executive responsibilities and now living near Vail Colorado where he enjoys skiing and periodic trips to Mexico to relax and renew his tan; Dave Lewis, retired from the wholesale liquor industry, and living in Bergen County New Jersey, served as sommelier and provided the largest collection of pictures of the group in party mode in their youth. Also attending and leading the laughter were Al Nixon, retired as a senior manufacturing executive, living in Connecticut; Bob Sheridan, living in New Jersey, a Rutgers professor emeritus famous for his work on raising the Monitor, and author of the book "Iron from the Deep, The Discovery and Recovery of the USS Monitor" and Walt Hoehler, retired IT executive and management consultant, living near Easton Pa.

We spent a day at Rutgers and saw what is new in the last forty-five years, on what we knew as University Heights, Camp Kilmer, College Avenue, downtown New Brunswick, and the Douglas campus. It was very impressive to see the stadium, the Hale Center, the Zimmerli Museum, the Mason Gross School of the Arts gallery and theater complex as well as all the dorms, labs, student centers, classroom buildings and athletic facilities. (By the way, there is still at least one quonset hut in use on University Heights.)

But, even more exciting was the opportunity to hear members of the staff and faculty talk about their roles and their focus on preparing students for life after Rutgers -- Very Impressive!

There were several Lambda Chi's that could not make the get-together this time, but we are talking about a road trip to see Rutgers play football at South Florida next fall (2008) in Tampa. Any one interested in joining us, just let me know walthoehler@rcn.com. In closing, I am happy to report that all who were on campus made sure to add new RED clothing to their wardrobe and to bring home Red things for their grandchildren -- GO RU!

Walt Hoehler

FALL 2007

Our 45th Reunion was a delightful one! Thanks to the strong outreach of Tony Oliva, Barry Pavelec, John Hendricks, Stu Freedman and others, dozens of us turned out for beautiful weather and a festive occasion. Thanks to Barry Pavelec, our class web site provided a series of positive messages encouraging attendance. Networking helped: Arthur McDermott from Denver and Tino Mattoli from Rome encouraged each other to fly in - both did. Class agent Roger Wyman and his wife, Vicki, a former Rutgers admissions colleague of mine, traveled from Florida.

Many came from a distance, including Sam Mudie from California. Sam's wife, Patti, an attorney, got stuck in court and stayed home...bummer! At least, Sam had his bicycle along. Seen chatting with Sam were, among others, Richard Anderson and wife Anne, Dave Brody, Jay Cranmer, Pierce Frauenheim, Joe Kowalski, Bob Vecchio and, of course, Tony Oliva. John Hendricks, Joe McGough, Richard Earl, Barney Hoffman, Don Resnikoff, Henry Ramer, Bill Stoken, Ando Merendi and Horton Taylor were among many having a nice time. Guy Dean, George Billy, Bob Hahn, George Knecht, Dick Lawrence, Jim Albach, Harris Cahn, Fred McMane, and Paul Szymanski were among those of us who enjoyed the parade and lunch. Shirley Yasbin, Barry Pavelec's sister, again carried our class banner in the parade. An RU employee, she is as loyal as if she were a class member. Thanks Shirley!

It was good to see Chris Nicholas, still with Merrill Lynch and Pete Hall, still trim as ever. I'm sure he and Jim Wakeling got to recount baseball team memories. It was great to see John Hendricks honored for his service on the Alumni Board of Trustees. He and Barney Hoffman also have given years to the Loyal Sons and Daughters award committee. Another special moment: Bill Lyons phoned Clem Izzi in New Hampshire so we could say hello. Clem, former corporate exec and college basketball fan extraordinaire, lost his mobility some years ago through the double whammy of paraplegia and blindness. Nevertheless, Clem's attitude is so positive, it should be bottled! A talented and thoughtful guy, he looks to the future with optimism and energy that is impressive.

Walter Seward '17, impressed us by attending his 90th reunion at age 110, making Paul Simonson '31, seem like a youngster at 99! Hey, the future lies ahead…let's redouble our turnout for the 50th in five short years. Tony Oliva is already looking for volunteers, so contact him at TonyOliva829@AOL.com and ask how you can help.

These 500 words barely begin to get us caught up with each other. Please send news to me for our web site between issues of the magazine. I'll do my best to keep your achievements, perspectives and good wishes for each other accessible. If I missed anyone who came to reunion, apologies, but please let me know. Stay healthy!

SPRING 2007

Arthur McDermott and his wife, Margaret, longtime Colorado residents, moved into Denver after many years in the suburbs. They now will have easier access to the cultural offerings of downtown Denver, some within walking distance. Still active in his multi-dimensional real estate business, Arthur has added an apartment complex in Colorado Springs to his inventory. We look forward to learning more at reunion.

Down the road an hour from Denver, Alan Osur continues to live in Colorado Springs. He is in his last year of coaching the US Air Force Academy women's varsity rugby team. He took them to national championship playoffs several years, winning at least one and maybe more national titles. An historian, Alan has taught at Regis and the University of Colorado campus in Colorado Springs. He is now teaching at the Air Force Academy. He also has worked for Shepards Law Database firm, now a division of Nexus-Lexus. Alan keeps healthy hiking and playing tennis. After losing his wife, Madelyn, to cancer some years ago, Alan has entered into a new and important relationship. We wish him and Lisa many years of happiness, with lots of traveling, hiking and enjoying the beauty of Colorado. Summer of 07 will find them attending an Osur family reunion in Oklahoma and hiking in Utah and Arizona. Alas, because of his teaching obligations, Alan will miss reunion. He will be there in spirit and wishes his friends a great time.

Tino Mattoli will join us at reunion, flying in from Rome. As I write this, I know Tino is hoping to encourage classmates Al Bacardi and Luciano Eminente to join us in May. All of you undecided gents out there - it would be great to see you in New Brunswick in May, about the nicest time of year "on the banks."

John Dryfuss wrote from his home in Gainesville, Florida to share news. John's practice of medicine/ophthalmology keeps him both busy and happy. He also still enjoys flying. He bought a new Cesna 172 this year and uses it to get to his vacation home in the mountains of eastern North Carolina, wisely escaping some of Florida's summer scorchers. John is rightfully proud of his son, Christopher, a graduate of U-T Austin. Christopher was both an All American swimmer and NCAA event winner. John keeps in touch with Craig Jurgenson who is in the process of retiring from medicine. We hope to see Craig at reunion to learn more about his plans.

Larry Gettleman, professor of dentistry, etc., at the University of Louisville promised to consider bringing his slides of our undergraduate days at Rutgers. Let's hope he does.

No matter the time of year, please send me your news. I will share it in the magazine and/or on our class web site. I hope to see you at reunion and gather more news to share. I can be reached via email at ggould@binghamton.edu or at 500 Magnolia Dr., Vestal, NY 13850-2526.

WINTER 2006

Allen Nixon shared news from Farmington, Ct.. Trained as an engineer, Al spent 38 years with the Torrington Company, a division of Ingersoll Rand making bearings and other precision parts for auto and other industries. Al retired after a fulfilling eight-year stint as president. His wife of 43 years, Eileen, and he enjoy more time with their four daughters and grandkids. A volunteer with SCORE, Allen also enjoys tennis, golf and skiing. He visited Steve Matushak, a Lambda Chi brother, in Colorado where Steve, retired from corporate planning at IBM, sells real estate and is back to skiing and tennis after back surgery. We just keep on ticking!

Sheldon "Shelly" Schultz wrote from Florida where he lives, plays tennis and, like Steve Matushak, sells real estate. To beat summer sales doldrums, Shelly sold a building he owned in NJ and exchanged a building there for another in Florida. He said about 1,000 people move to Florida daily and only 400 leave. Even "hurricane stress" hasn't tipped the balance. Is it the power of sunshine? Shelly is practiced at putting up shutters for hurricanes, so it's become routine. As September began, he had just removed them following Hurricane Ernesto's departure and was off to the tennis courts.

Shelly's daughter, Debra, is Director of Client Support Services for Wave2Wave Communications, a provider of high speed wired and broadband services. Her husband, Mark, is an attorney. Shelly's son, Steven, is a vp and branch manager for Oppenheimer & Co. in Palm Beach Gardens. His wife, Alicia, teaches in Palm Beach County.

Now retired, the Rev. Charles Cesaretti subs as pastor of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Montrose, Pa. A newspaper article last spring described Cesaretti's work coordinating the gathering and distribution of 450 Easter dinners for needy families. Charles' career led him to Jerusalem, Tehran and other places in the Middle East, Africa, and Central America "building bridges among people." He has led a life of active service, benefiting his community and many others.

Joe McGough reports that he and his wife, Verlinda, are happy and productive at work. Neither is ready to retire. Joe thrives as Director of Corporate Operations and Marketing for Daniel Frankfurt, PC, an engineering and architectural firm with clients primarily in the transportation sector of New York public agencies. Verlinda loves teaching special education in a bilingual setting. Daughter, Elena, has a BA from Georgetown and an MS in War Studies from Kings College, London. She works for federal government contractors in security analysis. Son, Thomas, is an award-winning union carpenter whose side business often puts dad to work with a broom!

Please plan to attend our 45th Reunion next May 11-13. Watch our class web site for details: www.rutgers62.org. Thanks to Barry Pavelec for maintaining it so well.

SPRING 2006

Class president Tony Oliva asked me to strongly encourage all classmates to crank up their generosity as we approach our 45th reunion in 2007. Pulling together a significant class gift takes considerable effort and time. Tony urges us to make our Class of '62 Public Service Awards, begun by Dick Anderson years ago, a very high priority. Many fine university faculty, staff and students have been honored and our class has been quite visible as a major donor for this highly regarded awards program.

It's also fine if you prefer to donate to your favorite campus fund. Walt Hoehler emailed about the Foundation and Scarlet R's plan to sell bricks for a walkway and statue at the stadium to commemorate the first college football game. Walt will help buy a brick to honor classmates who played on the undefeated Fall 1961 team and that's great. Tony Oliva and other officers will advise us about refining Walt's idea, given uncertainty about how many bricks we'd need to honor those from our class who were on the team and if we could team up to buy them. The class website will have further information soon, so please check it out. If you have questions or suggestions, send them to Barry Pavelec at the web site. An effort to help fund the purchase of a carillon, supported by Barry and our reunion committee in 2002, has been on hold. We'll let you know if the project is reactivated.

Dave Leland and his wife, Dorothy, recently moved from San Diego to Denver. After a 25-year career with Mobil Oil, he joined SAIC in '95 and "semi-retired" in '05. One of Dave and Dorothy's son's and his family live in Boulder, making time with grandkids a happy part of life in the Rockies. Another son resides in San Diego, a great spot for avid golfers like the Lelands. Sounds like they've got the best of places to go between.

Bill Hausler finally retired from many, many years of school and college soccer refereeing. After managing games for kids of many ages, Bill's Achilles tendon and other muscles screamed for a break. Bill loves hockey and follows the Atlanta Thrashers from his home in South Carolina. He has hockey to watch and golf to play, when the tendon behaves. That's not a bad retirement regimen, and Bill is an avid reader too.

Alexander Everitt of Lafayette retired last October after 25 years of working the midnight shift at the Sussex County Jail. His day job was and is working on his family's fruit farm, selling cider and apples from their orchard between October and late spring. We wish him a happy retirement and acres of healthy apple blossoms each spring.

Richard Welsh of Rosemont reports that he is semi-retired from Welshes Wines of Stockton after 44 years. Alan Osur, widowed a year ago, still coaches the US Air Force Academy women's varsity rugby powerhouse, teaches history, and also has a day job!

Finally, my personal thanks to Tino Mattoli, his wife and sons for the great hospitality they showed me during a visit to their home in Santiago, Chile, last November. Spring in Chile sure beats winter in Binghamton! Please send me your news when you can.

FALL 2005

Barry Pavelec has left the editor's desk of 1766 to make time for a new family business. Barry's writing and editing skills brought "the other Rutgers magazine" to new heights, and he deserves a big round of applause, at the very least. He continues to tend our class web site at www.Rutgers62.org , a very valuable service. I also could use news from more of you, please.

Richard Hull, professor of history at NYU, was named Orange County, NY's, Revered Citizen for 2005. Dick earned that unique distinction for three books he has written on Orange County history and for his lifelong devotion to the area. Known for his talent, generosity and kindness, Dick's scholarly work on African life has taken him abroad countless times to do research, speak or consult. More information shared by Dick and Larry Gettleman, among others, will be put on our class web site. Each kindly sent more than I could pack into the understandable but confining 500-word column limit.

Dr. Larry Gettleman, Professor of Prosthodontics & Biomaterials at the University of Louisville's School of Dentistry, emailed that his son's wife recently had a second son, Jacob Joseph, joining Charles Benjamin, 4. Larry's daughter, Jacki RC'89, and husband, Marc Samolsky RC '88, have two sons and a daughter. Larry is busy as ever, teaching, serving as principal investigator of a multi-center NIH clinical trial grant to test a facial prosthetic rubber material he helped develop, flying his C172, playing Bb clarinet in the New Orleans Jazz Club (since 1981!), serving as technician of the local Jaguar Driver's Club and treasurer of the Mercedes-Benz Club. He's still active in Sigma Alpha Mu plus a large number of civic and charitable pursuits. Larry is a dedicated, energetic leader, sharing his talents to benefit his community.

Walter LeVine, a Florham Park attorney, is Acting Director of the Consumer Affairs Office in Livingston. Walter also serves on several committees. His children, Elissa and Evan, are now 22 and 21, respectively. It's good to have your news, Walter.

Bill Lyons lost his lease on K Street and moved to the Railway Express Building in the Capitol Hill area of DC. A popular path to his new office is literally across the tracks from Union Station. AMTRAK taught Bill that trains have the right of way, to help avoid injuries or, more likely, to spare them lawsuits. Those diesels don't have cowcatchers, do they Bill?

Bob and Charlene La Tourette are still with Regency Real Estate Brokers and Legacy Home Loans, working hard to keep California buyers and sellers happy. They attend Saddleback Valley Community Church, whose pastor, Rick Warren, wrote the book, Purpose Driven Life. Bob and Char are pre-marital counselors, keeping very busy.

Sadly, Ernest Brassfield has died. Ernie lived in Antelope, CA, with his wife, Felecia. Their sons, Robert Straley and Troy Brassfield, live in LA. After leaving the Air Force as a captain, Ernie spent 22 years with the US Post Office. He is remembered as a "truly multi-talented, vivacious man who made everyone's world a little brighter…"

SPRING 2005

Digby Diehl reports that his college roomie, Bernie Mogelever, still lives and works in NYC where Kay and Digby's daughter, Dylan, attends Columbia. Bernie is a semi-retired PR exec. His wife, Diane, is a consultant for women's magazines, with expertise in food - how nice! Digby, I bet those California winter storms made you miss bucolic New Jersey more than ever! Sam Mudie wrote about shoring up the dirt behind his Malibu home; no big mud slides on his block, thank goodness, but lots of work to keep the hillside steady.

Herb Williams sent a new email address to share with us. To dodge spammers, he's chosen xboxman@aug.com. Herbie loves retirement and, when his wife's hip replacement heals, they'll be back on the dance floor. Visualize lots of happy beta endorphins flowing to the rhythm of a Fox Trot! Herb serves as VP of the Maritime Estates II homeowners association in Palm Coast, Florida, belongs to the Elks Club, and says that not having to see Rutgers play Miami in football any longer has added years to his life!

Tino Mattoli emailed a bunch of photos of his son, Agostino's, October wedding (he and Patrizia have five sons). Wow, what a bunch of dancers in that group! Santiago, Chile, looks like a great place to party as well as to make a living. Tino splits his time between Santiago and Rome, keeping busy with a variety of business activities, hosting friends, and enjoying life fully with Roman vigor.

John Hendricks shared the sad news that John Jakubowski died in January. John worked for Merck as a group leader in industrial biocides, then as director of quality and productivity for Cambrex Corp. He retired in '94 as technical services manager at Troy Chemical. John was very active in Middlesex County, receiving a Jaycees Total Quality Emmy Award among others. He coached basketball and taught at Our Lady of Mount Virgin church, coached Pop Warner football and Little League baseball and will be sorely missed by his wife, Yolanda, family and friends.

During an exchange about digital cameras, Sheldon Schultz told me he has joined Prudential Florida WCI Realty in Boynton Beach. He got tired of just tennis, bowling, reading and dining out, so back to work. Shelly's high energy level and enthusiasm will serve clients well. Anyone planning property acquisition in Florida may email him at bocabelly@adelphia.net and view his web site at www.sgschultz.com. His home is in Bellagio at Lake Worth. He says the lake he lives on features a regular 4:00 pm parade of alligators -- toothy grins but no top hats to go with the tails. Shelly and his wife, Ina's daughter is VP of sales and marketing for CSN telecomm. She and her family live in Suffern, NY. Her brother and his family live in Boca where he works for Merrill Lynch. His wife and he do triathlons, some for "fun," some for charities. Shelly cheers them on.

WINTER 2005

It's been said that friendships made in college often last a lifetime. I'm happy to confirm that. With apologies for all the "I's," here's just a partial list of this year's happenings:

Libby and I attended Wayne Wood's daughter's wedding in Calistoga, CA. in August, then spent time with Wayne and Judy at their wonderful Truckee, CA. hilltop home. It's 13 miles from Lake Tahoe where we photographed the sparkling lake and showed five of Wayne's Petaluma KOA campground workers - all international students -- the sights.

I visited Sam Mudie at home in Crowley Lake, CA., in the eastern Sierras. Called the Hilton Creek Emporium, Sam's place has a fascinating history (it was a motor inn in the '40's and '50's), plus acres of civil engineering memorabilia and natural beauty. Sam bikes, actively works for safe bicycling routes, skies at Mammoth Mountain and loves the outdoors, 50's music, and especially his handsome grandson. His wife, Patty, a Los Angeles attorney, is one of the top litigators in CA, and loves to win in court!

I visited Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs with Alan Osur last winter and learned of his achievements as coach of the US Air Force Academy women's rugby team (NCAA champs in 2001 and 2002).

Libby and I were invited to the wedding of one of Tino and Patrizia Mattoli's five sons in Santiago, Chile in October. Alas, schedule conflicts kept us here. Tino hosted Digby Diehl in Rome when he and Kay visited their daughter there last year and made sure Arthur McDermott's visit went well too. Tino is the only classmate I know who stays in touch with Alberto Bacardi, head of the Canadian branch of his family's rum firm.

Bill Lyons and Clem Izzi have kept in touch ever since we graduated, just as George Gussis and Alan Davis and so many others have done. I've heard from and reported on most of them in RAM over the years.

Sam Mudie keeps in close touch with Tony Oliva, Alex Kroll and others who played football during our campus years. Those relationships mean a great deal to Sam and his teammates, just as fraternity contacts kept alive by Herbie Williams' emails from Florida mean much to those in his network. Those are just a few of many ongoing relationships that stem from life 'on the banks.' Why not share some of your own for the column?

Thanks to John Hendricks, I learned that Robert Pinsky (July) and Alex Kroll (April) are quoted in the 2004-2005 Rutgers Calendar. It's a beautifully printed set of great photos and quotes intended to offer valuable lessons and important reminders. I suspect any donor will get a copy, so don't be shy about sending your check to the RAA. Send your news to me: ggould@mail.binghamton.edu.

FALL 2004

Army Col. Dr. Horton Taylor wrote to share a remarkable "about - face" in his medical career. Last June, he became the oldest National Guard reservist recalled to active duty and is now at Camp Shelby in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Senior medical officer at the new Medical Deployment Center and Troop Medical Clinic there, he "feels honored and blessed" to serve. After 13 months on active duty, he'll retire at age 65! New medical officers will benefit from Horton's calm manner and expertise. Email him at hgtaylorjr@yahoo.com. He and wife, Jean (DC'62), make their home in Ripley, MS.

A high point of Digby and Kay Diehl's visit to their daughter, Dylan, in Italy for a semester abroad from Columbia, was time with Tino Mattoli, who graciously showed them around Rome. Digby's 15th book and first novel, Soap Suds, will be published in Spring of 2005. It's a "funny send-up of the world of soap opera written with Finola Hughes."Other credits include autobiographies with Natalie Cole and Esther Williams, and he is the "as told to" writer of Coretta Scott King's forthcoming memoirs - very impressive, Digby. He stays in touch with developer Arthur McDermott of Denver, psychiatrist Ken Gorelick, who specializes in poetry therapy, and Bernie and Diane Mogelever who still live in NYC.

Carl (Chuck) Workman, who won an Oscar in '87 for "best short film, live action" put his skills to work for this year's Academy Awards. He created the wonderful montage of clips from the late, great Bob Hope's 20 Oscar show appearances. He's created documentaries including "The Story of X"(about adult films), "The Source"(about the Beat poets), and directed "House on a Hill" starring Laura San Giacomo. He's planning to direct other film projects; if you see them first, let me know.

Richard Anderson, President of the NY Building Congress, sent me their impressive Annual Report. It features schematics of the new WTC complex and Richard's comments about visionary synergies resulting in such things as a new NBA arena, doubling of exhibition space in the Javits Center, Columbus Centre development, etc. Dick's smarts, charm and diligence have made a major contribution to rational planning and building in the NY/NY Metro area for decades, and he deserves bigtime cheers.

On a very sad note, I learned from Carl Stillwell of the passing of Sam "Ned" Hellings last April 29. Ned was a caring, popular teacher and coach and devoted family man. He taught English, ESL, and special education in Bristol (PA) Township for over 30 years. He supported Special Olympics, the Phillies, and the RU soccer and basketball teams -- he played on both 'back when.' Ned will greatly be missed by his wife, son, daughter and many others.

Clem Izzi, who retired as a business exec in 2000, developed a nasty medical condition that led to paraplegia. He's worked hard to adjust, and uses a converted Dodge Grand Caravan and wheelchair for mobility. He has been back to NJ frequently and is an avid sports fan. He credits his dedicated wife and others for keeping him feisty and active. I hope to see him at the America East basketball playoffs next March in Binghamton. Friends may reach him at clemizzi@sprynet.com.

SPRING 2004

I received my first copy of the Rutgers Alumni Association magazine, 1766 as I was finishing up this column. Its new editor, Barry Pavelec, has already done a super job, for the magazine looks better than ever! I hope you all got a chance to read Barry's first words to alumni, including his experience with bovine romance as a kid. Barry's also working with the Rutgers Class of 1954 in developing their reunion website for their 50th: www.rutgers54.org.

John Hendricks emailed about a happy event at a Rutgers Board of Trustees meeting. Craig Jurgensen spoke about his father, Charlie, whose 50th anniversary as a trustee was recognized that day. Though his dad's health prevented his attendance, Craig's eloquent and humorous anecdotes impressed John and others present. Craig recounted his dad's arrival at RU in the 1920's without money for tuition. The Rutgers dean apparently liked Mr. J and paid the $20 tuition for him. Craig brought down the house, according to John, when he repaid the $20 to President McCormick, commenting that he was relieved that the loan had been made interest free. To be asked to remain a trustee for 50 years is an amazing feat, given the shifting sands of leaders and politics, thus Trustee Emeritus Jurgensen deserves our respect and appreciation, and his son and our classmate deserves the same for his astute comments on his father's behalf.

Jay Cranmer emailed to say the late-summer hurricane did him no harm. Buckalew's, his restaurant in Beach Haven, got wet, but sustained no damage. Anyone interested in owing a restaurant at the shore should contact Jay, as he's ready to sell. He put years of work into the place including hiring young Irish lads and lassies to come stateside to work and lend their charm as well as their elbow grease. Jay plans to ease out of real estate development sometime in the next ten years - actually, despite his career-long immersion, Jay wants to tie up all loose ends by the end of summer, 2004. He's had a blast, to listen to his enthusiasm, building a variety of places. The two rental apartment communities Jay and his partners are working on in Philadelphia have given him much pleasure. The transformation of a100 year old building into 27 up-scale apartments and condos has yielded the highest sales prices per square foot in the City of Brotherly Love!

Jay's son, Jeff, moved to San Francisco with his wife, Susie, a marketing strategist for Old Navy. Jay and his wife planned to spend Thanksgiving with them, and take a tour of Napa wineries along the way. Finally, Jay's mother turns 100 next May. She lives in Florida, still doing her own cooking and laundry, though she lets taxi drivers take her to stores and doctors - some concession! Ike's doctor, Paul Dudley White, said "to rest is to rust" and it appears Mrs. Cranmer has taken that fully to heart!

Bill and Gail Hausler still like life in South Carolina, though they travel to visit their three sons and daughters-in-law and their five grandchildren. Gail still teaches quilting and Bill just can't give up refereeing soccer and playing golf, despite the challenges that sometimes come with time. Between refereeing, golfing, and watching sports, attending country music shows, and enjoying Gail's company, Bill is a happily retired guy. More power to you!

FALL 2003

I'm very happy to report the induction of Jay Cranmer and Barry Pavelec into the Loyal Sons & Daughters last April. Both Jay and Barry were instrumental in the success of our 40th Reunion, with Jay raising money and Barry creating and managing the class web site as part of his reunion committee work. Congratulations to both classmates for their very high quality, dedicated service. Jay also noted that he had been working on converting the Lippincott Building on Washington Square in Phily into 24 luxury condo apartments and two penthouses. There is lots of history in that structure, which was built in 1901 as a publishing house. No doubt, Jay's firm is doing a tasteful job of retaining its character.

Barry Pavelec also has accepted a new role as editor of 1766, the official magazine of the Rutgers Alumni Association published periodically by the University. I'm sure he will use his creative talents to make the publication even better than before. The role of the magazine to communicate with the huge number of alumni is extremely important, especially in tight budget times (I'm beginning to believe that's the only kind of budget times there are!). Barry's expertise is detailed at www.pavelec.com.

For the second consecutive year, Alan Osur guided the US Air Force Academy women's rugby team to a national championship. Illinois and Penn State were the last to fall to the talented Air Force women. Alan has been their coach for many years and used to practice with them to keep in shape. Not so sure he's still doing that, but Alan still climbs Colorado's hills, plays tennis and retains the rugged look he's always had. Best of all, he's a terrific role model of hard work and integrity for his student-athletes.

Sam Mudie wrote to say he became a grandfather in July of 2002. His daughter, Heather and her husband, John, are the happy parents of John Cole Olivier. Sam's son, Jason, is living in Santa Monica with a lovely architect from Krakow named Monica. Sam is back to biking, sometimes with brothers Bob and Chas. It's good to know all the breaks and pains haven't sidelined our old QB. Sam also skies - both Alpine and Nordic - having good winter fun through his passion for waxed boards on snow. Winter sights are great, too. Sam's wife, talented LA attorney Patty Glazer, continues to enjoy the combat of the courtroom while Sam battles the roads and slopes. Sam was planning to see Jay Kowalski and other friends at their annual "old boys snow week" last winter. He said something about less skiing and more reminiscing by the fireside, but all enjoyable.

I'm sorry to report the passing of Allan Shechet last January. Allan practiced law in the Shore area for 38 years, most recently as a partner in Shechet and Spector in Wanamassa. Allan was the recipient of the American Jurisprudence Prize for Excellence and was recognized as an expert in real estate law. He had been attorney for the Neptune Housing Authority and was past president of the Neptune/Ocean Township Kiwanis Club. He enjoyed playing in the Bradley Beach Bocce League and is survived by his son, Eric and daughter, Merryl, as well as his stepmother, Dolores. Our sympathies go to his family.

SPRING 2003

Congratulations are in order to Stuart J. Freedman. Stu, a partner with the Somerville law firm of Norris, McLaughlin & Marcus and an active member of class alumni planning activities, won yet another award last October. The New Jersey Vietnam Service Medal commemorates the 25th anniversary of the ending of the Vietnam conflict in 1973, and is awarded to current New Jersey residents who served in the Armed Forces in Southeast Asia during the war.

Stu previously received the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, New Jersey's highest military award. He also was awarded the Bronze Star Medal by the U.S. Army for meritorious achievement in ground operations in Vietnam. Stuart served as a Captain in the 509/523rd Signal Battalion of the 23rd Infantry in Chu Lai and An Khe from 1967 to 1968. Stu really enjoys the law and has served as President of the NJ Corporate Counsel Association and as Chairman of the NJ General Counsel Group. Congratulations, Stu, and thanks for all your work on behalf of our class.

I'm very sorry to report the passing last December of Bobby Shechtman at the age of 63. Bob was a well-known composer of contemporary classical music, and a member since1971 of the faculty at Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Popular with his students and colleagues, Bob's deep passion for music and life was infectious. A colleague said "'He was a real colorful character, almost like something out of a book, kind of an iconoclast. He had unique views on a lot of things…'"

That squares with my memories of Bob. We both had been in the military before Rutgers, and enjoyed sitting on the curb, watching Bill Lyons and other ROTC classmates marching up and down College Avenue. Our days of PT, drill, and rifle cleaning were history, and as 19-year-old freshmen, we enjoyed our freedom. Bob's intellectual curiosity went deep. I loved his bluntness and vitality. His sweet tenor voice, guitar and trombone artistry, and energetic approach to life were memorable to this then-shy Minnesotan. I saw him last in '69 over dinner at his home. He offered to teach me classical guitar, but I felt "all thumbs," and stuck with coaching Rutgers hockey. Bob had many friends. I'm sure classmate Jack Ruhlman remembers him well. As I recall, they had many long conversations during those years. Another friend of Bob's, Tom Siegel, Class of '61's correspondent, kindly sent me the obituary and shared his sense of loss.

Bob won the New York Composers Forum Award and the Kurt Weill Prize for Composition early in his career. He taught at Drew University before going west. He played jazz trombone with John Coates and other great musicians. He loved Argentina, having 'biked' across it, and played throughout Latin America and Europe. Bob's work, The Chariots of Aminadab, had its debut performance in 1977 at Carnegie Hall. Many of Bob's works have been performed at The Manhattan School of Music, by the Spokane Symphony, and at many places between our coasts. Bob is survived by his wife, Nancy; his daughters Lisa and Nina; his son, Tony; his grandchildren Sam, Noah, and Ruby and by his brothers George and Carl. He shall be greatly missed, but fondly remembered.

Fall 2002

Well, our 40th Reunion last May was a great time. About 100 classmates plus spouses and one stalwart 17 year-old (our son, Peter) showed up for activities on Friday and Saturday. The parade Saturday morning was spared the heavy rain of Friday, and a bunch of us marched up College Avenue to lunch in Brower Commons. Spirits were high, conversation lively, and many photos were taken to record our maturity.

Barry did a terrific job of spreading the word about the Reunion on the web site he's prepared for us. It's also a site that has been updated to welcome future news and to invite exchanges among classmates. Please take advantage of the platform that Barry has established for us. The web address is: www.rutgers62.org. But, you know that because you're reading this on the site!

From the first planning meeting convened by Class President Tony Oliva and Barry Pavelec to the comments and songs that followed our dinner in the impressive Zimmerli Art Museum, good organization resulted in a highly successful 40th. Thanks to all who helped plan, all who came, and to the Alumni Office staff for their support. The fund-raising work of Co-Chairs Jay Cranmer and Chris Nicholas and their committee was impressive, and with one huge anonymous gift near the end of the campaign, the total contributed is truly a wonderful testament to our dedication to Rutgers. Class gift details are elsewhere on the web site

Thanks to Tino Mattoli for coming from Rome, Reeves Lippincott for coming from Alaska, and all those who came from California, Colorado, Florida, Mississippi, Virginia, etc. Barry Kramer returned from a WSJ assignment in Hong Kong to again carry our class banner in the parade. It was also great to have local folks, including John Hendricks, recent President of the Rutgers Alumni Association and now an Alumni Trustee, Barney "the judge" Hoffman, and others. Jay Cranmer's mustache, Rick Parker's beard, Rich Earl's terrific hair color, Horton Taylor's freshman dink, and Eric Gerst's double wrist casts (tennis court antics) were among the memorable sights. NY Building Congress President Dick Anderson shared stories of NYC's recovery from 9/11, while Steve Simms, Pierce Frauenheim, Pete Hall and others shared news of their children and grandchildren. Bob LaTourette and his wife Charlene, George Gussis and wife Carol , and Libby, Peter and I met for brunch Sunday, and George talked about the continuing renewal of New Brunswick. Class President during our days 'on the banks,' Arthur McDermott of Colorado enjoyed chatting with Tino Mattoli, also an officer then. Before returning to Rome, Tino visited classmate and friend Alberto Bacardi in Toronto.

Alex Kroll was unable to join us, but was the keynote speaker at Cook College's graduation the following week. Tony Oliva said Alex got a great reception for his message stressing the need for and value of public service. Using an old term - tithing - Alex urged graduates to give of their time for the greater good of community and society. It is a message reflected by our class's public service awards, now included with other key University awards. Thanks, Alex, for giving Cook's newest alumni good direction.

As we near the anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11/01, let's remember with respect and affection those friends and colleagues we lost. Let's also remember with relief and joy those who survived. One who got out was Cathy, Barry Pavelec's wife. She is Freedom of Information officer for the Port Authority of NY and NJ, and was on the 67th floor of the first tower when the plane hit. She shared some difficult details at the reunion luncheon, but showed remarkable resilience. She also is quoted in the recently published book, Never Forget: An Oral History of September 11, 2001. I am sure it's worth reading and sharing.

Please send me your Reunion reflections or other news for future columns: ggould@mail.binghamton.edu.

Spring 2002

As we approach our 40th Class Reunion this May, I hope you'll seek out classmates you know and encourage them to meet you in New Brunswick. The 40th Reunion Committee reported a strong, positive response to its initial invitation to join in the May 17-19 festivities, but we're hoping for an all-time high turnout, thus my appeal. The Saturday night dinner at the Zimmerli Art Center should be a special gathering for the Class of '62. There's still time to register and attend. You can find details on the Class of 1962 web page. It's linked from www.rutgersalumni.org.

Jim Brennan and Ken Link are coordinating the TEKE fraternity get together, and welcome contacts. Jim's phone is 941-947-9688, his e-mail: jbrennan@araggroup.com. Ken's phone is 561-622-1333 and his e-mail: elink44@hotmail.com. Jim noted that he had a nice lunch with Jack Carley in NYC reminiscing about Rutgers and their childhood in Bergenfield. Their Little League batting averages remain locked in the deepest vaults to protect their professional reputations!

Herb Williams has been in contact with Delta Sigma Phi fraternity brothers, and reports that while Richard Van Riper and Rick Parker are retired, Wayne Lippincott continues to manage the Lippincott and Jacobs Engineering Company in Riverside. Rich was an aerospace engineering in Arizona, and Rick a psychotherapist in the Delaware/Maryland area. Steve Fuller still teaches economics at George Mason University. Bob LaTourette e-mailed from Mission Viejo to say he and his wife, Charlene will join us in May. Their family real estate, escrow and mortgage companies are doing well, and they are delighted to have time with two year-old grandson, Robby. Bob and Charlene were in NJ just a week after the 9/11 disaster and found a NY harbor cruise with its view of the Statue of Liberty very moving. Herb's home is in Palm Coast, Florida, where he and his wife, Sandy, dance the nights away.

Richard Earl retired from the Alliance Group, where he was vice president for communications and public affairs and now is teaching writing and public relations at Rowan College. He also is an actor at the Haddonfield Plays and Players, and played the stereotypical bad guy, J. Bruce Ismay, in the musical version of "Titanic." Richard's snarl is bogus; he really is a fine guy, and a very good friend from way back. I am sure he's also a terrific teacher.

Eric Gerst recently retired as senior partner of his own law firm, with offices in Philadelphia and DC. Eric and Carol life in a new home in "horse country," in Willistown Township, Chester County, Pa. Their son, Jeffrey, is an attorney and executive in charge of Carsey-Warner E-Distribution Company, a TV and internet distribution company. He lives and works in the LA area. Eric and Carol's daughter, Elizabeth, is an on-air TV business reporter for NY 1 News in NYC. She lives near Central Park and gives her folks a good excuse to visit the Big Apple frequently. Eric looks forward to reunion, hoping it will be "an exceptional reunion, sharing fond memories and friendship with our 'old' buddies."

Winter 2002

Planning for our 40th Reunion is progressing well under the leadership of Class President Tony Oliva. We anticipate a great turnout for our key class activities, including a program for spouses. Mark your calendars for May 17-19 and encourage the attendance of classmates with whom you grew intellectually, played a sport, managed a student activity, enjoyed a fraternity, or just hung out. Come back, tour the campus and compare notes on careers, families and retirement. Reminisce, for sure, and take home some good energy for the future.

It was nice to see Reunion Chairman Barry Pavelec and Class Secretary Stuart Freedman at our planning meeting in September. Barry still runs his communications business and was greatly relieved that his wife, the Freedom of Information Officer of the Port Authority of NY & NJ, escaped from her office on the 67th floor of a World Trade Center tower as all hell broke loose September 11. Stu is an attorney with Norris McLaughlin & Marcus of Somerville. His daughter, Jacqueline DC '00, keeps the RU connection going. Stu keeps in touch with Phi Ep brothers Mel Miller, Exra Weisman, Alan Sacks and Harold Goldman.

John Hendricks is now past president of the Rutgers Alumni Association and was sworn in as a Rutgers Alumni Trustee in October. He will continue to represent us well on the University Board of Trustees.

Congratulations to Robert Pinsky, poet, professor and former Poet Laureate of the United States, who was inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Alumni during the fall. The website he inspired, www.favoritepoem.org, is still up, running and worth exploring. The videoclips of individuals reading their favorite poems are great.

Sam Mudie has recovered enough from a serious bicycling accident (spring '00) to be back on his bike again. He's given great support to his brother, Bob '65, who suffered a similar accident, albeit in Texas not California. Sam's daughter, Heather, is happily married to a high school classmate highly regarded by Sam. She owns and operates a discount designer clothing store, while her brother, Jason, is a building contractor. Sam was among the 32 football players from our 1961 undefeated team who met on campus in October for their 40th anniversary. Tony Oliva reports that he, Sam, Alex Kroll, Bill Speranza, Pierce Frauenheim, Steve Simms, Bob Harrison, Bill Libby, Jay Kowalski, Dave Brody, Charlie Gatt attended. In touch, but not attending, were Dick Lawrence, Tom Kocaj, Lee Curley and Dick Webb.

Tino Mattoli, who splits his time between Rome, Italy and Santiago, Chile, e-mailed his feelings about the WTC disaster with drawings depicting construction of the towers' foundations in 1967. A friend of his helped build them, and provided the poignant reminders of the beginnings of the once-proud towers.

Dick Hull, Professor of African History at NYU, also was immersed in the trauma of the WTC disaster, complete with foul air and great sadness. He continues teaching, travelling to Africa and hopes, as we all do, for an abatement to terrorism.

Richard Anderson, President of the New York Building Congress has an office on 28th street in NYC. He witnessed too much of what happened last September 11 and helped the Building Congress's membership mobilize to assist in the rescue and debris clearance efforts. Dick said his members "just rushed to the scene, not worrying about safety or contracts or other responsibilities," sudden heroes with the gallant firefighters, police, doctors, priests, et.al. Years ago, Dick initiated our Class of '62 Public Service Awards, a visible reminder of our commitment to the stimulation and reward of good values. Roger Wyman, our class agent, urges us all to give generously to the 1962 Class Fund. He and Tony will let us know options for major gifts in the coming months.

Before the tumult in NYC, Jack Carley and his wife were kind enough to help me assist a talented young man in search of a career opportunity, for which I am very appreciative. Jack is Senior VP for Legal and Regulatory Affairs with Cendant.

George Gussis took Libby, Peter and me to breakfast and a tour of recent architectural enhancements to New Brunswick after the planning meeting and RU-UConn football game. The many changes are worth a drive or a walk downtown. George's law practice continues to flourish, and his son, Geoffrey, works in town with an Internet venture (www.recommendit.com). George and Carol had a great trip to Italy last July, so George's Italian is better than ever. As he provides help to some immigrants, his Albanian is right up to snuff, too.

I'm sorry to report the passing of Steven M. Gordon, formerly of Elizabeth, last year. He had owned and operated Steve Gordon's Designer Floors in West Orange and was past president of the Carpet Club of New Jersey. Steven served on the Board of Directors of Trout Unlimited and was council chairman of National Trout Unlimited. He is survived by his wife, Susan, and by six children and stepchildren, a brother and a grandchild.

Fall/Winter 2001

As we head into the last planning year for our 40th Reunion, news abounds. A terrific letter from Allen Nixon, recently-retired president of The Torrington Company, describes the satisfaction he got serving Torrington and three other divisions of Ingersoll-Rand for 37 years. Al remains at Torrington to consult and complete his term as Chairman of the American Bearing Manufacturers Association. He will continue to live in Farmington, CT., as his and wife, Eileen's, four talented daughters live in the region. One teaches English at Babson U., another is a head fashion designer in Manhattan, the third uses her MPH at a top liver transplant unit in Boston and the fourth is a physical therapist at Boston's Spaulding Hospital. Allen, who went to high school with Richard Anderson and retired lacrosse coach Tom Hays, also noted that his Lambda Chi fraternity brother, Walt Nightengale, runs a financial services outfit near Seattle. He and Claire DC'63, have one daughter.

George Gussis and wife Carol returned from a summer vacation in Italy and shortly thereafter I learned the following: a. Barney Hoffman is alive, well and the most humorous judge around; Jeff Shein has scaled back his very successful real estate practice, but shares his talents as chairman of a local hospital board, and c. Arthur Reiner, Chairman and CEO of Finlay Enterprises, was honored by the Jewelers Charity Fund for Children (JCF) for raising over two million dollars in one year to support pediatric medical research at the JCF Bone Marrow Transplant Clinic at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis. Bravo, Arthur, for wonderful support for kids in need, and kudos to the jewelry industry for its generosity.

Ken Toole e-mailed to say he retired last March and moved to Brewster, MA, on Cape Cod. He and his wife, Janet, have an antiques business within hailing distance of their three children and grandkids. Ken was Commissioner of Planning for Dutchess County (NY), then with a foundation developing environmental and historic preservation projects in the Hudson Valley. He did each for 18 years. He was also President of Friends of the Hudson Valley. He wrote "The Cape fits us like a glove," so it's perfect for retirement.

John Hendricks has ended his noteworthy term as President of the RAA, and assumes a seat on the Rutgers Board of Trustees for six years. He e-mailed that Jack Keefe retired in August from a 25-year post as a judge and will join a prominent law firm. Best to both.

Jay Cranmer e-mailed that he is still owner of Buckalew's restaurant and tavern in Beach Haven, though he has retired from sailboat racing and spends more time as a principal in his real estate development and investment firm in South Jersey than at the shore. Off the State Planning Commission after 11 years of hard service, Jay shared concerns about major unresolved issues. Zoning "management" seems the tip of a "'home rule'" political iceberg, with public school funding, inner city challenges, etc. involved. Not fun. Happily, Jay's son, John, uses his planning and law degrees in Jay's firm. Jay's son, Jeff, is in NYC after six years as a teacher and journalist in Thailand plus a year in Laos writing a travel guide for The Rough Guides. Lyn recently retired from teaching, looks after family and plays golf when she can, as does Jay. He is a major booster of his area's Ronald McDonald "'House of Kids'" whose structure is new and impressive, thanks to Jay and friends. Jay noted that Ken Link lives on a small farm with his wife (plus their horses and goats) about 20 minutes from the Cranmer's Tequesta, Florida home.

Finally, Libby, Peter (now 16) and I had a nice chat over brunch with Bill Lyons and wifeJoan near their home in Point Pleasant Beach last June. We were en route to Ft. Dix to honor Brigadier General Bruce Bingham '68 upon his retirement from the US Army Reserves. Bruce was hockey club president when I was coach. Bill's work on Avenue K in DC flourishes, but the pull of the shore is also strong, creating a nice balance for now.

Summer 2001

Robert Pinsky has kept very busy since leaving the post of Poet Laureate. Happily, writing is still his primary pursuit. He continues to do a segment for Jim Lehrer's The News Hour on the Favorite Poem Project (www.favoritepoem.org) and has signed a contract with Norton Press for a sequel to Americans' Favorite Poems. In April, he gave the Tanner Lectures in Human Values at Princeton. In May, I'm pleased to note, he delivered the Commencement address at Binghamton University, receiving the Doctor of Human Letters honorary degree in recognition of his major contributions to American poetry and related literary achievements. Robert and his wife, the former Ellen Bailey DC'64, live in Cambridge, MA, where she practices clinical psychology while Robert writes and teaches at Boston University and reaches out to encourage the love of poetry.

Henry Ramer e-mailed to report that, after many years as a solo law practitioner in Hawthorne, specializing in planning, land use and real estate cases, he has become counsel to Williams Caliri Miller Otlely and Stern of Wayne. His wife, Carol DC'69, works for Financial Freedom selling reverse mortgages, a product of interest as we age. Their daughter, Paula, a Tufts grad, works for the American Enterprise Institute in DC, with plans for law school. Her sister, Sarah, is a sophomore at Harvard, majoring in folklore and mythology (my wife, Libby's, area of expertise on the Binghamton faculty). Henry loves to "garden like a fiend" and tries to keep up with his knowledge of Spanish and Portuguese, the latter honed in Brazil with the Peace Corps ('66-'68). Great to hear from you Henry, you're among those of us who will not slow down. Keep at it!

Bob La Tourette and wife Charlene of Mission Viejo, CA, keep very busy with their real estate company, Regency RE Inc., focusing on good and ethical service. Recently, they started Legacy, a mortgage company "based on the same premise of extra good service and product." Their three sons are grown and married, with successful careers in various fields. They have a grandchild and hope for more. Bob, says Charlene, is enjoying a second childhood, riding motorcycles to complement his scuba diving. Both Bob and his wife sound busy and happy, enjoying life in the West.

Richard Van Riper is retired, still living in Phoenix. A tip-off about his career is his e-mail address: StarJock@aol.com. Rich worked in the aerospace industry "from the Apollo Project in the 60's to the Space Station in the 90's." He and wife, Lucille, have been married 38 years and have two children and three grandchildren. He e-mailed a photo, looking healthy and happy, and shared classmate Herb Williams' e-mail address.

Herb and his wife, Sandy, live in Palm Coast, Florida. He says "You could not get us back up to the NORTH for a million bucks." Herb likes to stay warm! He still does marketing for Berry Packaging of Tampa. He remains active with the Elks, for whom he does volunteer work, and the Italian American Social Club. That's where he and Sandy dance at least twice weekly. When Herb does come north, it's to visit his son, Chip and family, including two grandchildren. Herb was planning to retire in June '02 regardless of the stock market. He noted that by checking Delta Sigma Phi mailing lists he was able to contact classmates Wayne Lippincott, Rick Parker, and Jim Rewalt. Herbie, enjoy your retirement, and thanks for sharing so much information.

Don Lehman has been Chief Academic Officer at George Washington University for almost five years, and still enjoys it. Just shows what physicists will do for fun! Don enjoys the rich variety of discoveries that a research university creates, and part of his job is to keep the brew fermenting. Most recently, he helped create a new College of Professional Studies with a 'for profit' arm that will develop strategic partnerships and alliances with businesses to deliver training and educational services. Realizing the vision of that school took great skills of diplomacy and great knowledge of strategy, I'm sure, and Don is enjoying the results of that 18-month 'trip.' His wife, Elyse DC'62, is Professor of Psychology at George Mason U, where classmate Steve Fuller also teaches. Elyse heads their Developmental, School and Physiological Psychology program, directs eight doctoral students, teaches and does research (whew!). Some of the limited "down time" the Lehman's have is spent sailing. Retirement won't come for about five years, as both continue to contribute to their universities and remain intellectually vital.

Arthur McDermott and I had a nice chat. He is doing very well in many real estate ventures in Colorado. He and his wife, Margaret, spent some pleasant time with classmate Digby Diehl during his visit to Denver and Boulder where he studied and planned to report on the philanthropic efforts of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Digby enjoyed "tremendous success" with his critically acclaimed book, The Million Dollar Mermaid, on the life of former swimmer/movie star Esther Williams, said Arthur, who has a copy autographed by Digby. It's got a very nice rating on Amazon.com, too!

Tony Oliva and Alex Kroll established the John Bateman Foundation, in honor of our late, highly respected football coach. Classmate Pierce Frauenheim was the first high school coach honored for his long and distinguished career at Immaculata High School with a $5000 grant to his school. Several former Rutgers football players lend support through service on the Foundation's board of trustees. Tony said Alex Kroll also is supporting a program called "Play it Smart" sponsored by the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame, of which he is a member. The program intends to encourage academic and athletic growth among high school students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It's great service from great classmates.

Finally from Tony: when Jay Kowalski retired from American Airlines, he had the sheer pleasure of having his two sons, also pilots for American, as his final flight co-pilots. How sweet that must have been. Jay lives in Lake Mohawk, NJ, and Naples, Florida.

Finally finally: Harris Cahn, who started with our class but graduated with the Class of '63, e-mailed that he is an attorney now living in Colorado. He's been involved in real estate development and a venture capital business. He hoped to see Arthur McDermott and recounted his undergraduate days sharing an apartment at 112 Somerset Street with Tino Mattoli. While officially '63, Harris said that, if Tino will fly from Italy or Chile to attend our 40th, Harris will be there too. Bravo! Let's all come back to the Banks in '02.

Spring 2001

It was great to hear from several classmates for this column. I hope others will do what Ed Dalrymple did and share news for the first time since we graduated. It's terrific to hear from folks, whether it's the first or tenth time.

Ed lives in Arlington, Virginia, and has retired twice. In 1983 he left the Navy, where he had been in Undersea Surveillance Anti-Submarine Warfare. I think he could have written The Hunt for Red October if Tom Clancy hadn't done it first! Ed then worked for TRW for 16 years as an engineering manager. Quite a growth pattern for someone who majored in history and education, but it just confirms the value of a liberal arts degree. Ed is now a Program Manager and consultant working with the Office of Naval Research in Arlington. His wife of 32 years, Mary, is a Director with Lockheed Martin in DC. Their daughter, Aimee, is a veterinarian in the Natick-Wellesley, Massachusetts area. She has a two-year-old son, bringing grandparent status to Ed and Mary. Their son, Brett, owns a custom woodworking business in Fairfax, VA.

When Ed finally really retires, it will be to a home on a golf course near Civil War battlefields in Fredericksburg, VA. Best wishes, Ed, and thanks again for the news.

Clem Izzi and his wife, Elizabeth, are enjoying the retirement I noted in our last column. However, his mother passed away in January. Though a sad start to the new year, it reminded Clem as he reminds us, to enjoy every day, to value every relative and friend, and to honor the memories of loved ones who have passed on. I know Clem and Elizabeth have children and grandchildren to visit around the country; that's one way to stay young at heart. Clem noted that Dr. Jimmy Whalen has been virtually the only "orthopod" in northeastern Maine for 25 years. Based in Machias, Dr. Jim loves fast, old cars and maintains his "cutting edge" knowledge of orthopedic surgery. Thanks, Clem.

Classmate and RAA president, John Hendricks, gave me a brief sense of his busy alumni association schedule recently. Talk about 'on the go!' It may be seasonal, but the meetings John attends sound like the schedules of all those candidates we got to see last fall. John, to be sure, is providing first rate public service, not into mirror gazing or vote getting. Thanks to his RAA role, John believes more than ever that the common bonds created among diverse alumni is a great strength of the university. Rutgers has grown to be an even more impressive place - and clearly a very different place - than it was when we were students. John noted that before long, our ages will match our class year - what is this about becoming 62? As Clem Izzi says, enjoy every day.

Bill Lyons called to say he had no news, then told me of the great news that his and Joan's daughter, Lenore, had a baby boy January 31. A premee, Patrick Evan weighed in at 2.5 pounds, but is doing very well thanks to the good folks at the Monmouth County Medical Center and his own very youthful vigor. Bill continues to enjoy his post-CIBA-Geigy life as the sole proprietor of a lobbying business in DC.

Dick Hull e-mailed, noting that his current research at NYU involves exploring how "'defense against infectious diseases'" can be integrated more completely into the U.S. government's international policies. Dick suggested that the threat of 'bioinvasions' is growing rapidly (recall the news report in February about a possible Ebola victim who flew into Toronto, happily a false alarm) and needs serious attention. How best to build a disease prevention mindset into both domestic and foreign policy is a concern of many in government. For his part, Dick is co-chair with Congressman Benjamin Gilman of the 20th Congressional District's International Trade Advisory Committee. Dick has traveled and lectured extensively throughout Africa. He is fully aware of what AIDS, Ebola and other diseases that might have fascinated and frightened Selman Waksman could do to the world's population if not controlled. It's a reflection of Dick's good values that he spends as much time working on problems as he does researching and teaching the economic history of Africa.

I had a very nice chat with Jack Carley, Senior VP for Legal and Regulatory Affairs at Cendant Corporation. Jack lives and works in NYC, and continues to manage major Cendant litigation begun in 1998. He delighted me with news of his August '00 marriage to Pia Lindstrom, especially because of their 13-year courtship. Pia, retired from NBC, has done film documentaries on Morocco and other places under the title of "Pia's World." She does a weekly theater review for Fox and is writing a novel while Jack continues to enjoy the practice of corporate law. Their wedding was held on the terrace of Pia's sister-in-law, Isabella Rossellini's apartment, amidst a number of relatives and friends. Classmate Alex Kroll and his wife, Phyllis, old friends of Jack's, attended. Alex's retirement is a very active one, Jack says, as is his wife's. She is a breeder of champion pointers. Jack, all the best for continued success and happiness.

Richard Anderson continues to run the NY Building Congress and enjoys it immensely. He also had a great time engineering a retirement dinner for Tom Hays, distinguished former RU lacrosse coach. Tom was inducted as a Loyal Son, though not an alumnus. That's an uncommon honor. Tom and Dick played lacrosse together at Sewanhaka HS in Floral Park, NY. More recently, Dick helped author a joint report on energy issues with four other business and labor leaders. Their goal: to encourage Governor Pataki to help NY state avoid the kind of energy crisis California has been going through. Let's hope the 'Gov' sees the light, and keeps it and the heat coming.

Winter 2000

It's nice to see talented classmates recognized for their stellar achievements. Richard Anderson, president of the New York Building Congress, was selected last spring as a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners. Dick has 35 years of planning experience, including a long term as head of the New York Regional Plan Association. Among his many services to Rutgers is Dick's creation, years ago, of the Class of '62 Public Service Awards. I suspect donations to that cause are always welcomed. Congratulations, Richard, on your selection to FAICP.

When I read a copy of the Rutgers Rah newsletter, I was delighted to see Steve Fuller had been honored with selection to the "All-Legacy Team" for Rutgers soccer. He was selected with Herb Schmidt '61. If any of you watched the two of them play way back when, you'll remember Herb's great power and Steve's versatility and finesse. Steve and others were honored on campus September 16. Steve, like Dick Anderson, has a planning background. Steve has taught at George Washington U. and at George Mason U., both within ball booting distance of the Washington monument. Well, almost. Steve, hope to see you at our 40th in the not very distant future.

On a sad note, Ronald Martinides passed away last June. Yet another member of the professional planning community, Martinides was the city planner for the City of Elizabeth for two years before retiring two years ago. He also worked for the NJ State Department of Community Affairs and the Paterson Department of Community Affairs. Ron also earned a masters' degree in urban planning from NYU. He belonged to the NJ Professional City Planners' Association and was active in Republican politics in New Providence, where he lived with his wife, Sophie. In addition to Sophie, Ron is survived by two daughters, Lisa and Tiffany. Our sympathies, albeit belated given RAM publication schedules, to the Martinides family.

I had nice e-mail exchanges with Bill Hausler, John Hendricks, and Sheldon Schultz over the past few months. Bill enjoys 'retired' life in South Carolina, where he plays golf and referees dozens of soccer games each year at all levels. Sheldon is retired, but an active tennis player. He claims to be finally used to the heat of south Florida, with days with temperatures below 60 feeling like a NJ winter to him. He noted that Florida is the "lightning capital of the world" with an average of 1800 strikes each day. Ah, sweet trivia! He did come north to visit campus in August and watched the football team practice, noting the enormity of today's players. Shelly hoped for some 'quality wins' this year to help bring attention to the fact that Rutgers is a first class university.

As noted before, John Hendricks is President this year of the RAA, and no doubt is doing a terrific job. He has served the Alumni Association for many years in a number of helpful capacities, including service with classmate Barney Hoffman on the Loyal Son/Daughter selection committee.

Tino Mattoli wrote to say his work has taken him back to Chile, after some years in Rome, his true hometown. Tino, who has had many careers, most recently in banking, has a new home in Santiago, where he and Patrizia, his wife, try to keep track of the lives of their five grown sons. We hope to entice him to visit for our 40th Reunion in May, '02.

After 37 years in college admissions (with sidelights in financial aid, student records, etc.), I have become Director of Parent Relations for Binghamton. It's a nice chance to leave the personnel and budget work of a large admissions office to others, and to allow a younger generation to take its place at the helm. I look forward to working with the parents of our students, just as I have worked with many of Binghamton's alumni for many years. So, it's a bit of a segue toward retirement in the next few years, but mostly a fun opportunity to deal with some new issues and challenges.