The Grand Ballroom of the Inn on the Park holds about 1200 people. There were about 1100 people in attendance. A few more people than were originally estimated. I was supposed to be introduced but since there were still tables being set up -- I merely went to the podium and started the proceedings.

I was not educated to be a comedian even though some of my students thought I might be a joke. But what the heck the most they could do is "boo" and it was not like they were paying me for the work. I started by telling a story which was supposed to be a joke -- it was a little religious in nature but it got some laughs. What I forgot was that right after telling a religious joke I had to introduce a Minister to say the invocation. He took it in good stride.

Before and after introducing any speaker, ie students, faculty etc I would tell a joke and do some one liners. It became a little disconcerting since I would (without bragging) get a great laugh and then about 30 seconds later there would be further commotion and more laughter. It took a while for me to realize that what I was saying was being translated into French at some tables which resulted in a delayed reaction.

I recall introducing Dr. Stu O'Brien who was a clinician at the time. Dr. O'Brien had a reputation of being a little too self-assured. In addition he never wore socks if he could get away with it.

When it came time to introduce Dr. O'Brien as he was walking to the podium I told him I had two questions for him. The first was whether the pair of socks that I produced were his. The second was -- "if he had to do it all over again -- would he still fall in love with himself". That got a big laugh and even a bigger laugh when he no longer could do his speech from memory and had to go back to his table to get his written copy.

The rest of the night went well and at the end, I produced my hankie -- waved at everyone -- said goodnight and turned the hankie into a cane. The trick went over very well.

It was an amazing evening and has made me remember with fondness the class of '82.

p.s. the Inn on the Park ceased to exist a number of years ago.