Happy Birthday Chuck

As my friend Chuck would say, surely everyone knows today is the birthday of some of the greatest celebrities, like Dick Butkus, Lori Greiner, Redd Foxx, Kirk Douglas and Donny Osmond.  Chuck is a true renaissance man though.  He would then cite that it is also the birthday of Chenghua (Emperor of China), John Milton (English poet and philosopher) and Tip O'Neill (55th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives) among others, but he wouldn't want to showboat by naming them all.

Chuck could also rattle off other important events on this date.  In 480, Odoacer, first King of Italy, occupies Dalmatia.  In 1793, New York City's first daily newspaper, the American Minerva, is established by Noah Webster.  Chuck is too classy to flaunt his knowledge.

One event he probably wouldn't mention though occurred in the mid 20th century.  Chuck was born and the world was never the same.

I am proud to have called Chuck a friend for over 20 years.  I think I am better for knowing him.  Oh sure, I might be pettier because of Chuck, but that's part of the fun.

Seriously, Chuck has been a colleague, mentor, supporter, psychologist and more.  I couldn't create a better brother if I tried.

Today I raise a glass of Merlot to my bud Chuck.  I love ya, my friend!

Chuck Gekas and me in Tampa, FL-August 2016.