I guess this is the APAC’s entry into the 21st century! I am going to begin this Alpha Rho Blog. I hope we’re able to add a section that will allow some conversation back and forth- like a message board. Posting comments will allow us- the Board of Directors- to communicate better and in an open forum.
It’s almost impossible to tell you how gratifying this past weekend was for me. I’ve been doing AC stuff annually, since 1998. Outside of the 25th Re-chartering, this was the most well attended event we’ve had.
For me personally, there were so many guys in town this past weekend from when I was an undergraduate. I haven’t seen my big and little brothers (Jeff Kummer and Bob “Zeke” Zisky in the same place since my wedding 10 years ago! Both Scully brothers, both Ashforth brothers, Dave Goldberg, Norm (Mike Frola), Todd Greer, John Gallagher, Chet Long, Rob Wallace, Chris Vari, TJ Katz, Greg Matthews, Matt Nagy- Not to mention Mike Turner and Eric Dyson- What a cast of characters!
I always enjoy not being the oldest Alumni at any particular event. Does everyone realize we had 3 Re- Chartering brothers there? My good friend Bob Laughner, as well as Chuck Huber and Craig Winkelman were there. I also enjoy getting together with guys that went through after me. Wee Man (Rob Blumnenstetter), Brandon Williamson, Mark Forman, Adam Bailey and Tim Povenski - among others- were all having a good time.
Here is the biggest kick I get out of doing these types of events. I can pick right up with guys I haven’t seen or talked to in 10 years, like we were together yesterday. The conversations we have may be about slightly different things now, but for the most part, the ease in which we can slide right back into old times is very comforting for me.
The worst part about the time we all spend together is twofold. The weekend always goes too fast and I can never spend enough quality time with everyone. I would have loved to pick Norm’s brain about some things or sat down and chatted with Todd Greer about life in Georgia. I guess I should just be thankful that I did get to see everyone I did!
So many guys asked me this past weekend why I continue to do the things I do for Alpha Rho. That answer is also twofold: Both reasons are rather selfish – First - I get to play a small part in organizing events that give my best friends (my brothers) a reason to come to Morgantown. Second, I have 3 sons that I hope one day will attend WVU. I really want them to have the same opportunity to join PKP and Alpha Rho as I did. The fraternity has given me a lot of what I am thankful for in my life. If my sons can have some of the same opportunities I had to become better men, it will all be worth it.
I had a great time this past weekend. I’m hopeful that we’ll all have a chance to see each other in 2008. We’ll have a good Spring Alumni Weekend, and the 30th Re-Chartering will be killer!!!
Thanks guys! It was great to see all of you!
Tom Begley AP 284
APAC President
1 comments:
I had to chuckle at that photo taken of a myself and a few of my other brothers along with then Chapter Advisor, Dr. Nick Evans.
Left to right are alumni Dave Deskins and Dave Cowgill, Archon Victor Folio, Chapter Advisor, Dr. Nick Evans, Alumni C.R. Piatt and myself, Jay Marano
The photo was taken during the Spring Formal of 1986 a year after my graduation from WVU. The formal was held at the local country club which the late John Brisbane was a member.
During the event Dr. Evans on behalf of the Alumni presented the chapter its charter which was held in escrow since the Spring of 1983by Dr. Evans, outgoing Chapter Advisor , the late Dean John Brisbane, and a couple of Alumni. It was a special moment for all of us.
Even though I am now 22 years older (45), 60 pounds heavier, and with salt n pepper hair, I am excited to be attending the 30th Anniversary function this upcoming October. I hope to see many of my "old" friends there.
Jay Marano, AP120
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