Backtalk

In Memoriam Andrew Szegda, cable pioneer and “grandfather of the universal drop connector” passed away in September. From the Society of Cable Television Engineers to the United States Patent Office, Szedga’s name made its mark. He held 54 foreign and domestic patents for products he designed during his 20 years with PPC. With his innovations in universal drop connector technology, he set the standard for all drop connectors in the cable industry. In 1999, the industry recognized Szegda’s contributions, and bestowed its highest honor—naming him a cable pioneer. “Andy had a competitive and winning spirit that set the standard for everyone around him. Those of us at PPC fortunate to have worked for and with him know exactly what I mean—there was no one more passionate and committed,” said John Mezzalingua, president of PPC. Szegda is survived by his wife, Doris, one daughter, three sons and two grandchildren. Career Moves C-COR.net has added two new members to its board of directors—Anthony A. Ibargüen and Lance T. Shaner. Ibargüen is the managing director of software and services for Safeguard Scientifics Inc. Shaner is a former cable system owner and current chairman and chief executive officer of Shaner Hotel Group L.P. Frank Gine is the new vice president of sales and marketing for Enhanced Telecommunications Inc. Prior to joining ETI, Gine was director of broadband sales at Convergys, where Time Warner Cable and RCN were his top customers.