Robbie Kaufelt ’65

Robbie Kaufelt ’65 writes: "Nine classmates from Prep '65 came to Small Farm the other evening for a wine and cheese party hosted by Nina and myself.

We were glad to see Max, Michael, Maureen, Mary Beth, Peter, Larry, Jeff, and David. Several classmates brought their partners.

Nina led us in a round of Rose, Bud, Thorn: the rose is a good thing that is happening; the bud's what you're looking forward to; and the thorn, well, you get the idea. This brought us up to date on where we're at in life these days, as well as where we've been these past ten years (or longer).

The big news was Maureen's engagement ring...from Dr. Gottlieb. Mazel Tov to both!

Sixteen of our classmates have passed, the nine listed above were at our home, and twenty six did not - or could not - attend. Some, of course, we've never heard from since graduation (James Blaise Callaghan, are you out there?).

We spoke of another party, where perhaps more of the missing members might be able to make it. If so, there's no point in waiting to our 65th or 70th, as each year is precious at this point. Nina and I are always happy to host, in NJ or NYC, perhaps a weekend, perhaps a pot luck dinner or a show.

We look forward to seeing John A, Viv, Gale, Bobby, Jeff, Sheila, Judy, Ruth, Renee, John D, Allyson, Randy, Michael F, Edie, Rich H, David J, Billy, Brett, Ted, Don, Jay, Rich, John R, Ralph, and Abby in the near future. Send news!

I learned this at the 50th, but it hit home at the 60th: no matter what nonsense we indulged in back in school, no matter which group or groups we hung with, or who did what or with to whom, none of it matters anymore. All of us have had our share of success and heartbreak.

We are people we know intimately, having lived those school years together, in a small class, as teens (I have three teens myself now, my only kids), and it turns out we haven't changed all that much. But in any case, where we have changed... it's for the better.

See you soon, I hope. Meanwhile, Prep is on a building campaign, so those who can afford it, please send some money. And I recommend asking for a copy of the History of Rutgers Prep Vol 2, which I've begun. Fascinating in its own way, a very old institution that gave us an unusually good education, with some very peculiar but wonderful teachers!

Best, Robbie

PS: I just turned 78 on Oct 7, and as a birthday present to myself I leave tomorrow for a week in Israel. I hope it's the beginning of a better future for them and for us here at home."