Ray ("California") Has Left The Building!

This is a sad one for me: 


"California" (Ray), after having snuck into our lives early this year, has finally left for good on Dec. 15th - back to the ranch in California.


I know, you're thinking that he "left" us once before in July, and we had a good going away party for him - and, an even better one after he'd left (but not before he'd camped with us at Grey Fox - and blew Mike's mind on "Cherokee Shuffle" , or, at least, that's what Mike was trying to play...).


Here's what I sang at the time (to "California Girls"):

"Well, Ray came into New York City,
To work in the movies blowing up cars;

But, he soon discovered Bluegrass and Beyond,
Now he hanging out in Paddy’s bar.

But, he’ got him a ranch out in California,
With plenty of horses, kids and such;

And with his pretty wife Kim, this is all he needs,
So, New York, thank you very much."

We went through a lot with Ray... 

He and his wife Kim celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary with us (I got on his case about that one) and he was nervously playing the night before leaving for California as wildfires burned within a couple miles of his ranch.


He survived the "Deluge" jam - when Paddy's was leaking like a sieve.


Even though I always considered him an easy target for newsletter barbs, I'm really going to miss him at these jams - he really contributed to the great atmosphere that prevails throughout.


We even did a song together once (no, not "California Girls"). I bet you want to forget that night, Ray.


One final note, those of us who camped with him at Grey Fox heard a different Ray on guitar. We know that he can't play mandolin - but he really kicks on jazz guitar. It's a pity that he never got to showcase it for the group!


Keep in touch, "California", give our best to Kim, and stay in touch (there's always the "General Discussion Board")!


Dave (and many others at Bluegrass & Beyond )