Named in honor of Robert and Esther Vernon, longtime friends and, for more than 35 years, neighbors of the discoverer and her parents, Fred and Kay Francis {see planet  (2050)}. Their wise counsel, advice and solace over the years have been a source of comfort and renewed strength. Bob, now “retired”, travels the world from Slovakia to Mongolia, sharing his wealth of experience and expertise with emerging democracies. (M 31296) _ _.