Received word last week that Al had been back in Vanderbilt for surgery. Called his home number and got a recording. While out today, got a call from Al. He said despite reports to the contrary, he had not died....he had a hernia operation and surprised the doctors and lived. Says he's home, alive, - - and eating chicken. If you never had a chance to know Al, you've missed a great fellow with a very funny sense of humor, and sometimes so deep it took a minute to get it.