Yesterday I received a web-cam video message on my computer from a California-based old friend whom I haven't seen for over 30 years. When I downloaded it (which for me is a major great feat of comprehending technology) I saw my old pal. He looks his age, which is 70 and he stated that he wants the video aspect of his messages to be able to have conversations with East Coast grandchildren. I only wish he would have sent me just an ordinary e-mail.

His voice was strong and firm and he appeared to be in good health, but how much can the viewer surmise from a "talking heads video." He was a great outside shooter in the days of the two-hand set-shot and a powerful rebounder. My memories of him are all of a virile guy with a huge, blonde, wavy hairstyle that protruded four inches above his scalp. Only Kramer on Seinfield had a head of hair that even compared to my friend's. It was something to see!

Why did he have to send me a video?

Maybe it was the lighting! Maybe it was the comparison to a memory of over 30 years or more! My memory bank was completely disturbed. Now when I think of my old amigo I will be troubled by which picture would my mind's TV monitor tune into. Would it be the young, strong, virile teenager or the darkly lit balding visage of a septuagenarian on a computer screen. No one is in control of the pictures that pop into the mind of a guy who writes a column called "Over 60 and Getting Younger!"

I, too, have grandchildren living on an opposite coast, 3,000 miles away. Personally, I find it better (for me) to e-mail and telephone them and to get on a plane and see them in person at least twice a year. They come east as often as they can.

Lorraine and I have just returned from a sun-drenched six days with the grandchildren and parents to Phoenix, Arizona. Nothing supplants being there, together with them, in person. As grandparents we are in the memory business. We are trying to manufacture some memories of us in the minds of the kids.

Will they remember us in later life, is an open question?

I admire my old pal for sending videos of himself to his grandkids. It is a wonderful idea and can produce touching results. They will remember a kind, old grandfather.

I am just sorry he sent one to me!