Max,
Decision-by-committee is always dodgy (gee whiz, I really love that word ), but from what I can distill from all the suggestions, it looks like, yes, it befalls you (and I for one can't think of a better guy, time zones notwithstanding), to start the thread, on your March 14. I hope you will indeed rise to the occasion, else we might have 16 different threads all started at once.
After you have begun the -- how did shanks put it -- gout-ridden-geezer's toasts, then you might start a party thread, too. Seems that what was sort of decided, two threads: one for succinct elegies and the other for fun 'n' games.
Do you agree to undertake this mission?
PLEASE????