[Leica] LUG 20th anniversary

[tedgrant at shaw.ca (tedgrant at shaw.ca)]

Hi Crew,
I have no idea how long I've been part of the LUG, but it has been for a 
long long time. I know I screwed-up trying to join until someone straitened 
me out and here I've been ever since.:-) I suppose when it comes near the 
end of year and we need photos for the YEAR BOOK! :-) Some folks just wish 
I'd go away! Trust me that "ain't goin' to happen!" ;-) 

In the beginning it's a bunch of people going on about Leica cameras and 
gear, sometimes forever! :-) But then all of a sudden the topic changes to 
important things in life.... FINE SINGLE MALT SCOTCH! ;-) Or cars and life 
itself!

But the most important of all? It's a family to many, some folks have joined 
and left with hardly a whisper and totally missed the essence of this 
incredible group of understanding folks brought together by the good graces 
of Brian Reid. Certainly when he opened the door and invited us to join him 
in a common bond with a camera, the Leica!

In this group we have enjoyed the wonderful successes of many, be it in 
photography or other life moments. The arrival of children and grand 
children. The loss of a LUGGITE or a family member even though we may never 
have had the honour of a meet and greet.

One of the truly great things? Meeting face to face and shaking hands in 
friendship with honour! Oh sure we've had the odd bad ass totally out of 
hand misfit, but quickly and quietly dealt with by our wonderful saloon 
keeper!! :-)

Sure the Leica camera is and was the stalwart of the LUG, always will be! 
Simply because as long  as there are members who are as old as many of us 
are becoming? The "old part" is just a number some days. OTHERS? 
And have used them in our work or fun-time picture taking, the LUG will be a 
place of honour, respect and understanding by men and women who enjoy our 
wonderful association with photography! 

To Brian at this special time in my life. I thank you for this wonderful 
human being connection one onto another with so many friends, whether face 
to face or screen to screen. Indeed a great privilege of being part of an 
international family of friends. 

cheers,
ted