Short Article on Anthony Charanis: The Mort Pye Scholar’s Teacher – NJ.com: Scholars

Anthony Charanis is my second cousin – or something like that. He is my Dad’s cousin. He is the son of my great uncle – Peter Charanis. My dad is also a Peter Charanis, I’m a James Charanis – named after my grandfather, Anthony’s uncle. And my middle name is Anthony.

Dad, my Dad, often speaks fondly of his Uncle Peter – how brilliant he was. He also jokes about being a kid around him – as he always “gave books” for presents. Now here lies the dynamic – Great Uncle Peter was “the smart one” and my grandfather knew that from the start. Its sort of a family whisper. My Grandma Sophie was a bit crazy – a true Spartan – and therefore made my Uncle Peter’s family uncomfortable. My grandfather was a successful furrier. How Grandpa Jimmy supported Peter through college and maybe even bought them their first house. It can be misunderstood though – some family members might think its boastful but it really was about brotherly love. Imagine two boys coming to America on a boat as pre-teens. Its a bit of a mystery really – I’ve heard stories from my Dad. And from Anthony’s sister Alexandra who lives in Greece and minds the family home in Lemnos during the summers. We went to visit her 12 years ago before Maia was born. A short visit made an impact. Maia’s middle name is Alexandra.

Congratulations on a great career Cousin Anthony. You have done a good thing. Even if I wouldn’t have been in your class – I’m a deep thinker but not a good student. If I had gone to Rutgers (and I almost did) I would have audited one of Uncle Peter’s classes – but wouldn’t have survived one, I think. Its all good though. Family is family. Come to think of it – I came so close to meeting Uncle Peter, and I didn’t and I wish I had. I remember when he passed away – I missed my chance. I am my father’s son though. My this was a rambling rant.

Categories: Family