Jeffrey E. Streitfeld
I appeared before Mel as a trial lawyer before joining him on the 17th Circuit Bench. He laughed frequently, with a unique grin. The best example I can give of his sense of humor takes me back to the 1986 B'nai Brith Justice Unit annual installation brunch. I had recently been before Mel in a bench trial and he had not yet ruled. He walked up to me, and held out his hand. This was not a hand shake gesture. It was a kiss my ring gesture. We both laughed. I always laugh when I remember it. Still laughing now.
Jeff Streitfeld