Yesterday I received word that one of our oldest friends passed away. He was just 4 days short of his 67th birthday. Brendan was from Ireland and came to Japan about 30 years ago. He taught at Uminohoshi High School for many, many years, and taught quite a number of our business courses over the years. His good cheer, sharp wit and hard-headedness will be forever missed. He is survived by his wife and daughter.