Charles Kennedy

Above, left, you see Charles Kennedy, [1937-2004] irreverently tweaking the nose 0f Hans Christian Andersen [1805-1875], to the delight of young Davie Rolnick, formerly of East 72nd Street and now living in Rupert Vermont. The photo was taken a few years ago at one of the annual hawkwatcher celebrations at the Model-boat Pond --- a fledging party, a birthday party for Doctor Fisher, a Pale Male coming-of-age party [for his 13th birthday]-- I'm not sure which one. The hawkwatchers seize any opportunity to celebrate.

Today it is Charles's own turn to be celebrated. This evening the hawkwatchers, birdwatchers, bird feeders, dog-fanciers, nature-lovers, Central Park conservancy officials, Zone gardeners and many other Central Park denizen--Charles had a LOT of friends! -- as well as various friends and relatives from all over the country [Iowa especially] will converge on the traditional party spot -- near the statue of Hans shown above -- to raise a glass and to reminisce about this great and unique guy. Charles Kennedy, as just about everyone knows, died last October after a brief and valiant fight with cancer.

Charles was a hero of my book, of the great film Pale Male and of my life. He was a hero to everyone [without exception, I'd say ] who knew him. This party is NOT a Memorial, we are all insisting. It will be a joyful celebration, even though I know that many tears will be shed.

The traditional Bohemian Walnut cake personally decorated for Charles by his friend at the Cupcake Cafe, Ann Warren, will be there tonight. Lee and Noreen, who have done the lion's share of the work organizing and preparing this party -- getting out the invitations, shopping, cooking, baking, planning, organizing, will certainly be there. The friends and relatives will be there. Pale Male and Lola are sure to make an appearance sometime this evening to tip a wing to Charles.

Davie Rolnick and Julia, his mom, were coming down for this event. I even bought a new bed to lure them to stay at my house. Alas, Davie came home yesterday from a trip to Philadelphia felled by a stomach virus. So they will not be there tonight. That's a disappointment. Charles loved Julia and Davie. But there's one thing I know about this evening's celebration: Charles will be there.