Just wanted to get a big hi out to everyone. I have been on the side lines for some time and just joined and I am happy I did. By far the best instructors for a site like this. I have looked at other sites but the instructors were not up to par. let me break it down quick if I can. Started playing in 1962, first real gig was The new York Worlds Fair, 1964. We were called The Ratt Finks then. After that I thought I was on my way to Star-Dumb.(lol) I was a kid growing up in the Bronx. We were a family of six and not very well off. Had a guitar teacher who used to back Dion and the bellmonts. When he told me that I thought he was a God. Everyone worked and contributed to the household once they were old enough to get working papers. I am married 38 years and have a son and daughter. I was in the Army and was in the infantry. Came home from Vietnam with a different attitude and had some problems that exist today. My guitar playing helps sooth my problems as I get lost in my own little world. I am retired and have plenty of time to play now. it helps keep me mind sharp and fingers. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis pretty bad which I took home from Vietnam 1968,(Living with this is no joke) . I just hope I keep my hands for as long as I am alive. I cant play the way I used to but I can get it done. So you young guys be grateful you have no pain when you are playing. My goal is to just improve my playing and getting polished. I have a few questions I will ask in the gear page, but thanks for listening, Pete PS,(is there a spell checker on the site?)