...from Gretchen Shafer

Alan Lewis's contributions to the Brighton Schools and community are immeasurable. His influence, I hope, will be endless. It was because of Al that I became involved with the school board, Threshold Center, and Brighton Kiwanis -- just a few of the things Al cared about and supported with enthusiasm. I am one of many that Al encouraged to become involved in these things.

Serving on the Brighton Education Fund Board has involved me in class reunions. Clearly Al is the most loved teacher of all. Those from the early years when he taught biology love to give him a hard time about the unit on reproduction. He told how he found a film which he thought would be good. He was at the drinking fountain between classes when the principal appeared and asked if he liked his job here. Did he wish to stay? "Then don't show that film!"

Al was always so unassuming. When we were running for the school board I told Al there was no need for him to work so hard campaigning ­ there was no way he was going to lose. He was convinced that his election was chancy. (Actually, Al received more votes than the budget!)

I, and we all, shall miss him.

Gretchen Shafer

October 31, 2001

Brighton Education Fund
c/o Brighton Schools, 2035 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, New York 14618
voice (716) 461-0434     fax (208) 975-7494