Dec 2000

Greetings, friends. Just in time for Christmas, a couple of classmates have been blessed with gifts, both of love and tax deductions. Andrew Wechsler sent the following interesting birth announcement:

“Wife Christine and I returned from Siberia with a new addition to our clan, a 14-month-old cutie named Sarah Kate. Son Joshua (3) swings between being the proud, protective older brother and a victim of unanticipated competition. On October 13, we had friends and family from as far away as New Zealand over for a naming ceremony presided over by our rabbi, Mindy Portnoy, also a Yalie. Will and Helen Bogaty (now in Japan) sent chopsticks for each child, so no one will ever be able to accuse them of being born with silver spoons. I dare my aging classmates to step up to the plate and render me an also-ran in the late fatherhood marathon. After all, we need an appropriate scale economy to support child care at the next reunion! When I am not changing nappies, I continue my economic consulting work as an expert witness in litigation.”

While I doubt there are many anxious to accept Wechsler’s challenge, one who has isDel Marting, number 81 in your program but number — I don’t know — 5?, 6? in your heart. Here is his news:

“I thought you and my other classmates would be interested to hear that my wife Marja and I had twins, Walter A. III and Isabelle Margaret Marting. Actually they were born on March 23, 1999, so they’re almost 19 months now. That means they would potentially be the Class of 2021. Think about it. I’ll be 75 and so will you. — Walter A. Marting Jr.”

Well, I certainly hope I will be 75, but if my latest encounter with classmates is any indication, that will be a long shot. I attended the aforementioned (last class notes) wedding of Quentin “Q-dog” Lawson to Ellen Quinn in your nation’s capital, along with mates Dave Stretch, Jim Schweitzer, Larry Franks (with wife Ellen) and Ralph “the Eye-man” Sando (with wife Joyce). A much too good time was had by all, particularly by Joyce Sando, whose party-animalism has not been the least bit diminished by her recent, successful treatment for throat cancer. She looks great and dances even better. Q, as many know, is a bully rugby player, and the wedding party was enhanced by the presence of many of his “butt-slapping” teammates, as Mr. Stretch labeled them. The evening was almost ruined by the rendition of “Bright College Years” offered by the classmates other than Schweitzer and me, who were zealously guarding the beverages at the time. Those wishing to send gifts or notes of congrats to the happy couple can mail them to 5321 42nd Place NW, Washington, DC 20015.

Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year to everyone.