David Laylin ’55

I continue participating in scientific exchange programs with Iran. Aside from the direct benefits – to both countries – this is important “Track Two” diplomacy, at a time when the US and Iran badly need some. In July, I was the only American ecologist at the international SDS (sand and dust storm) Conference in Tehran […]

Alex Farrand ’55

I have just returned from the Orme School’s annual “Vaquero Ride” near the Verde Rim in Arizona. Singing and playing the guitar around the campfire was the highlight. This included, as always, a number of Jack Huyler’s timeless songs, as well as a few in German with a member of a Blue Man Group from […]

Mitchell Lathrop ’55

Mitch was reelected President of the Metropolitan Opera National Council at the Council’s meeting on March 11, 2016. Each year, between September and March, the Council auditions between 1,200 and 1,500 aspiring opera singers between the ages of 20 and 30 from throughout the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The ultimate winners, usually between […]

David Laylin ’55

My wife and I recently spent a week in Cuba, traveling legally – by AA charter flight from Florida – under the category “Helping the Cuban People.” That means staying in a private house (Air BNB), eating in private restaurants (delicious and inexpensive) and using private transportation. (The latter refers to bicycle powered “rickshaws,” often […]

Tim Sodd ’55

Unfortunately, the ravages of time and travel have finally taken their toll. Therefore Liz and I have moved into an assisted living facility in Catonsville, MD, called Charlestown. It provides the two things we most need at this time of our lives-comfort and security. However, they came at the expense of flexibility and mobility. In […]

David Laylin ’55

Greetings, I just returned from a three-day scientific symposium in Iran, focused on the tragic status of Lake Urmieh in the NW and that of the Helmand Hamouns on the Afghan border (very large shallow wetlands formerly fed by the Helmand river). Due largely to mismanagement, both are almost completely dry. This has caused huge […]