In Basking Ridge, New Jersey, during the second week of October 2023, a cherished tradition, cultivated over the years, unfolded in the brisk autumn atmosphere. A group of Trinity-Pawling alumni, hailing primarily from the Classes of 1963 and 1964, converged for their annual golf outing, hosted over two days by Kim Foley ’64 at Somerset Hills and Paul Miller ’63, P’92 at Hamilton Farms.
The outing, which has been a steadfast occurrence for over a decade, originally focused on just a few individuals, has grown to a heartening reunion of 8 to 12 classmates. This annual golf tournament started as a small game between friends but now spans two days of spirited competition, camaraderie, and shared memories. With the regular tournament happening in the fall, the group has occasionally added a winter gathering in Florida to which they invite their wives for an even more lively grand event.
To add to the revelries and entertainment, various trophies are awarded to the participants. This year’s winners were:
● Winning Team: Class of 1964
● Low Gross: Tag Demment ’64
● High Gross: Hayes Miller (Son of Paul Miller ’63, P’92)
● Low Net: David Jollin ’64
While it is hard to top the days of golf on two of the most beautiful courses around, “For me, the gathering is more about connecting with our long-time, close friends than it is about the actual golf, although the competition is a lot of fun. Being able to gather each night after golf and catch up on each of our friends’ lives is the most rewarding aspect of the event,” shared Dave Jollin ’64 about the real reason for the event.
Despite the decades since their graduation, Dave notes, “After all these years, it is just like we were back in school together again. We absolutely do joke around and tease each other just like we used to,” adding that their camaraderie has grown along with the respect they all have for each other.
Alumni often talk about how Trinity-Pawling creates friendships for life. This gathering is an example of just that. With a grin, Paul Miller ’63, P’92 adds, “Believe it or not, we actually enjoy the Class of ’64 … and of course, it’s great seeing brother Kenper! But seeing Fritz Weeman ’63 and Steve Lewis ’63 is a real bonus! I appreciate their golf games even more! Thanks for driving down to New Jersey!”
This get-together has seen some expansion over the years, with invitations extended to others, and occasional guests joining for dinner and to enjoy the nostalgia of the Trinity-Pawling brotherhood. As the years have passed, this annual reunion has become more than a golf outing. It’s a collective effort and they have been able to leverage outreach from this core group to reach even more of their fellow classmates for reunions and other important milestones, such as their discussions this year to start the planning of the Class of 1964’s 60th reunion!
The group advises any other alumni looking to start their own yearly outings like this to start things small and keep the planning manageable. The key is fostering meaningful relationships and slowly growing the event to include more people as it organically expands. The core activity around which they gather, in this case golf, serves as a unifying force.
The gatherings also provide a deeper bond to the Trinity-Pawling of today. Updates from the School’s trustees like Doug Ebert ’64 and Jim Bellis ’72 shed light on the school’s current state, keeping the alumni connected to their alma mater.
As the sun set on another successful outing, the bonds forged over decades remained unbroken. Golf might be the reason they gather, but it’s the shared stories, laughter, and genuine friendship that make this Trinity-Pawling alumni outing a tradition worth preserving for years to come.
To join this gathering in the future, Dave and Paul encourage their classmates to reach out to them directly.
Special Note to the Class of 1964:
Your Trinity-Pawling brothers, Doug Ebert ’64, Tag Demment ’64, Kenper Miller ’64, and Dave Jollin ’64, are excited to see you again at your 60th reunion, September 27-28, 2024! To join in the planning and help spread the word, please email Dave at djollin@irgfocus.com.
by Tom Javery