R.I.P.

Following a long illness, Joan Throckmorton passed away recently. She was a member of the Direct Marketing Association Hall of Fame and a legend in the industry as a DM consultant, creative expert, teacher, speaker, and author. Many of us have heard her compelling presentations at newsletter and DM conferences. A memorial service was held at the Pound Ridge Community Church in Pound Ridge, NY, on March 22.

Lee Van Vechten passed away March 14 after suffering a massive heart attack. He was 67. He was among the first business-to-business telemarketing professionals and was a founder of the American Teleservices Association. He also established his reputation through many publications, including his own widely read newsletter, The Van Vecten Report, as well as a number of training manuals and books.