"Old friends, old friends sat on their parkbench like bookends." ~Simon and Garfunkel

Susan and I enjoyed a splendid lunch in historic Newburyport with John Barrett and his lovely wife Hatsue. We caught up on what has been happening with family, friends and life in general. It is so special to renew an old friendship and affirm the fraternal bond.

Art Saunders 1951-2012

Today we lost a friend and brother in the wake of a courageous journey that inspired so many whose lives he touched. Several of us made the trip to Minneapolis last May to spend a weekend with Artie and his family. If he was showing the effects of the chemo and radiation treatments it did not inhibit the buoyant smile or his irrepressible personality. I came away from that bitter-sweet weekend feeling somehow, that I was a better person for having this man as my friend. Art passed from this earth surrounded by his "ladies" and is now at peace. I remember that on more than one occasion during his battle he lectured me: "be sure to tell Susan and your children how much you love them." I will do just that today.

Thank God I'm a Beta.

We all drink from the same canteen...

The men pictured had a fantastic weekend in Minneapolis and Wayzata, Minnesota with the Saunders family. Art, Robbie, Alyssa and Christina were marvelous hosts to a bunch of overactive brothers. We sang, we ate, we drank way too much and told stories of exaggerated proportions. In essence, we had a thoroughly great time with Artie. Brother Randy Evans summed up this get-together with unusual eloquence:

Boyz (men)-

I can't remember when I have smiled and laughed so much!  I can't wait
to see some more photos.

It's amazing how much you guys remember from 40 years ago- especially
the walking encyclopedia of Beta Lore, Mr. RJL.  Maybe if people see the
YouTube of our singing, we can become an overnight sensation-
(weddings, bar mitzvahs...sky's the limit!)
Anyway, I know this was all about Art- and what a tribute to him that he
can draw a great crowd like you guys... but I also found the night very
therapeutic- the power of fraternal friendship is amazing!  Thanks for
the great time!

Becky and JD

Shing went to LasVegas with a group of New Canaan HS classmates for reunion fun. Naturally she tracked down JD who has the following to report: I am working at the Paris Hotel & Casino since last July. I worked at Caesars Palace for the last 8 years, but took a promotion to move over to Paris, same company, Caesars Entertainment. He also reports that Sully was in town with his bride for dinner out and lots of exaggerated tales. We are now giving thought to a reunion in Vegas. Let us know your thoughts.