Upon retirement, while looking for intellectual stimulation, I enrolled in the Encore program for seniors at Pierce College. Professor Stephen Piazza’s Music Appreciation class became the incentive to attend the Maestro’s Symphonic Winds concerts and subsequently become an annual subscriber.
The professional productions, dedication of the volunteer musicians, influenced me to join the LAWinds operations committee and the board, developing marketing aspects for the Winds.
Until 1964, my home was Montreal, Quebec Canada. I became enthusiastic about children’s development while 10 years as a camper, camp counselor, then eventually head counselor.
I received my undergraduate and medical degrees at McGill University in Montreal, then moved to Los Angeles for my pediatric residency at UCLA and became a ‘Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ and a ‘Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology. I subsequently practiced pediatrics, pediatric allergy in Northridge, with intermittent stints as Chairman of Pediatrics Northridge Hospital and as Assistant Clinical Professor in Pediatrics at UCLA, retiring after 46 years, in 2012. Throughout my practice, I attempted to influence children to deal with the roller coaster emotion and illnesses of life and not to fear doctor visits by maintaining a calm, respectful approach. Above all, I taught students and practiced state of the art pediatrics with a friendly, explaining details directly to the child, in an simple, honest manner.
For relaxation, I play the trumpet, as a true amateur. After primitive playing of the mandolin and banjo (influenced by folk singing), I became enamored with playing the spoons, a Quebec and New Orleans staple. Encore’s art classes uncovered a passion for drawing.
I practice a healthy lifestyle with emphasis on exercise in a gym and at the late age of 75, taking up golf, loving it despite its frustrations. It’s an unforgiving sport, which I had to forgive. Sports, basketball, football, especially UCLA teams, hockey (I was a devoted Montreal Canadien, now a LA Kings, fan), all involve a part of my allotted leisure time. Still hoping for a final ski run.
Terri, my wife of 41 years, retired from the English department at California State University Northridge and we enjoy our retirement by attending movies, theater and concerts, continuing Encore courses, and dodging the elusive Covid-19. Traveling, to visit our 4 sons, 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, who are scattered around the globe, is on my bucket list.
Being affiliated with the LAWinds, has opened my life to new vistas and relationships with a talented, friendly and enthusiastic ‘LAWinds Family.’
