In Memory of Joseph Cytrynbaum • 1972 – 2009
It was the first day of class Freshman year at
Evanston Township High School.
I wore a Jim McMahon [9] Chicago Bears Jersey to school.
I walked into Art Class – and Joe Cytrynbaum,
already my dear friend at the time,
began yelling “Vince!” Vince!” Vince!” across the classroom.
He thought I was wearing a Vince Evans [8] jersey.
Everyone in the class thought my name was Vince.
That same week, about two or three days later,
I got my second turntable.
I wasn’t a DJ exactly, but my record collection was thick
and I was playing songs one after another – creating vibes and tapes.
Joe Cy approached me and demanded that I have a DJ name.
Immediately, “You are DJ Evil Vince” came out of his mouth.
Thusly, so it is.
Joseph Cytrynbaum gave me my nickname in 1986.
And it has proceeded me wherever I have gone for the past 23 years.
Vince’s real name isn’t Chris, it’s Thomas. Thomas Christopher May. Cy told this story that on the first day of school every year, the teacher would say, “Thomas May”, and Vince would always reply
“can you call me Chris please”
Comment by Andrew — 7/21/2009 @ 7:26 Tue
Yes, Joe Cy told this story often when confusion over
names and nicknames came into discussion.
“Thomas May?”
“Can you call me Chris, please?….
but my nickname is Vince.”
Comment by christopher — 7/23/2009 @ 13:20 Thu
Such sweet memories…
Comment by Louise — 8/5/2009 @ 22:00 Wed
I love this story! And I especially love the love that flows from Vince and his group of Evanston mates, a truly close group! I’m happy to have been a small part of it since the late 80’s. Many more great times to come everyone!
Comment by Buban — 8/14/2009 @ 2:31 Fri