Happy birthday Greg Howard
Greg - I just wanted to say out loud, right here and now.
Happy Birthday
I have come to know you these past 4 years through the Stickist, but it does not define our friendship. You are a fine friend. Solid and true. in the time I have known you, you have done what you said you were going to do, and I like that. Here are some highlights I would like to personally share.
*I have witnessed you staying up late with loud Greg From NY, helping him with his intonation at the first FHA - helping him understand how it works. There was a line of people around the table watching as you did this. You helped each person there. It was like 2am in the morning before you were finally done. This was not on the schedule, nor was it promised to anyone. You just did it cause that's what you do.
*You were quick to give credit to Randy Clere for helping you with your posture - you remembered the event where it happened (you might even remember the date). He observed and commented on this, you tested this and were quick to acknowledge Randy's experience in healing arts, acupuncture and greater self-awareness. You give credit where credit is due and you do not suffer fools gladly.
*The idea for the "end of the event" Stick jam circle was your idea. I wasn't a huge fan of it, but you dutifully hauled amps from Auerbach down to the big room at the FHA, made sure all the amps had power, everyone had a cable (summing mono where necessary) and that everyone could be heard. In addition to Dan's documentary in progress, this was the crowning moment of the event - the one I remember most. This last year, I recall that you were giving our dear friend Jacky a ride to the airport as he was heading home to France that day - and you were delighted to help him -
just as soon as you knew everyone had an amp, a cable and could be heard. After that, you were off to take Jacky to the airport. You missed the part where everyone went around the circle and talked about the event. The tears, the laughter, but believe me, your presence was felt and appreciated.
You are a father. A good one. You have created a dream for 2 beautiful girls. You get this far off look when you talk about them. I really enjoyed getting the back story of your family - I understand why you fight so hard for what you believe in.
You have stood by this community despite criticism for what you do. You are an emotional person, and sometimes you should just stfu, but you can't help it. It's all good Greg, the love you give is equal to the love you take. I respect you - that was earned, not given.
For those on the Stickist that have not met Greg, or had the opportunity to learn with him, I would say, do not judge him too harshly for what he says. Rather, look at what he has
done for this community, what he has done to nurture it, to help it do grow and to protect it. He has done the same for those that compete with him as he sees this is for the greater good.
You don't have to agree with me, it's okay. I like Greg and am sounding off on his special day, hoping that he gets to eat cake with his wife and beautiful daughters, maybe knock back a tall, dark beer - you deserve it friend.
Happy Birthday Greg, here's 30 seconds of the Beatles just for you.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MY2StuP3rd4[/youtube]