Phyllis Aldrich, Carol Carroll and Me

Years ago I worked for Phyllis Aldrich at the BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services)  in the field of of gifted education in upstate New York.  This was my first job in gifted and I can truly thank Phyllis for introducing me to this field!  Carol Carroll an accomplished pianist and amazing piano teacher whose students perform in several recitals throughout Saratoga Springs was the third person of our terrific team.  I have saved materials Carol sent me about her students and recital programs.

Phyllis was married to Sam Aldrich, a cousin of Nelson Aldrich Rockefeller, with Sam instrumental in CAPTAIN getting seed money.  A Harvard trained attorney, Sam did not like the field of law and instead wanted to devote his life to public service.  When CAPTAIN began, Sam was Director of Youth Services throughout NY state.   Sam passed away this past year.  His memoir, Dancing with the Queen, Marching with the King is fabulous!  Queen Elizabeth, Martin Luther King.

Though unclear, this photo shows the three of us at lunch -- simply a marvelous and momentous reunion.

Me, Phyllis in back, and Carol.  Lunch, Friday the 13th
at the Old Bryan Inn 

CAPTAIN -- 40 Year Anniversary Gala

You may want to refer back to the May 23rd post.   The Gala was incredible!  This link takes you to an article about CAPTAIN and the Gala.
The Fairways of Halfmoon Golf Club was the perfect venue for the Gala and the elegant array of hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, fruits, and desserts, cash bar with approximately 350 CAPTAIN supporters made for a big, happy party.   When the formal program began, Executive Director, Sue Catroppa asked me to stand -- the first and primary founder of CAPTAIN!  Everyone applauded.  The founders were asked to make the first cake cut.  I felt honored.   

Me and Donna Rudzinski.  Donna and her husband were in a
horrible automobile accident and therefore I was alone to lead the
development of the program. I missed having her by my side.
It was so good to see her!