By John A. Wilkinson ’60, ’63MAT, ’79MAH
From Paris, Guy Robinson sent a photo of an Olympic Games banner and greetings from his home on the Île de La Cité, where he was watching the opening parade on the Seine. Representing Yale as athletes from ten different countries were two undergraduates and 18 alumni of Yale College, including the intrepid Paralympian swimmer, Ali Truwit ’23, who lost her left foot in a shark attack two days after graduation last year. Ten of the Yale contestants from five countries won medals, including Ali with two.
Robert Myers ’64 has alerted us to an article on balance problems and the danger of falls by Sam Francis ’64, following the death of Joe Lieberman ’64 from such an accident. It is a good cautionary piece and can be found at Yale63.org: “Falling: Mobility and Balancing.”
New Tuesday Tea sessions added to our website are: 1) Dr. Meir Kryger, professor emeritus and world-renowned sleep expert, discussed issues relating to sleep and aging, including sleep apnea, much more common and potentially dangerous than recognized; and 2) Pericles Lewis, dean of Yale College and Douglas Tracy Smith Professor of Comparative Literature, who spoke on “Thoughtful Conversations on Controversial Topics: Essential for Free Speech.” Do access the website to learn about “the Four Cs: Character, Community, Citizenship, and Conversation.”
In late August, I happened upon the freshman (now “opening”) assembly and heard Dean Lewis and new Yale president Maurie McInnis movingly address the more than 1,600 new students and their families. Though outside on the Cross Campus, not Woolsey Hall as in September 1956, the pageantry, music, encouraging words, and nervous anticipation and hope were the same as 68 years ago. “Oh, why doth time so quickly fly?”
The obituary for Caesar Naples, anticipated in the last issue, has been received and posted on our website.
Also posted, the obituary of Forrester “Bo” Darling. Following a 37-year career with Union Carbide, Bo thoroughly transformed his life with a move to the Seattle area and devoted his time to family, professional drumming, competitive sailing, cycling, marathons, skiing, bluegrass festivals, and especially hydroplane races. Whew!
Word received that Ray Firehock died on July 1. Again, obituary to follow.
Tempus fugit, sumus hic.