As some of you already know my studio and apartment were destroyed in a fire 4am October 13th.
I am spending my days trying to see what has survived and what must be replaced so that I may get up and running once more.
My friends in Hoboken and Teaneck banded together and with the direction of Joe P.
and Steve Johson who run the Tuesday Jam at Mexicali Blues Cafe, made last night a very special night for me.
My mother at age 78, was there and was happy to see that in my 'world'; I have
loving , caring friends around me.
I write you all to say that you have shown me and eachother
the very best of what people can offer one another;
that two diverse and talented musical communities
can come together and make something wonderful happen.
Forgive me if I don't mention everyone here but; thanks to Joe, Steve, Dave (the Mask),
Eddie, Nikki, Mexicali Joe, all the musicians of Teaneck;
Christine, Mat, Arthur, Karan, VD King, Sly, Emily, Cindy, Alex, Vinny, Popa Chubby, Big Ed and the crew from Scotland Yard:
Jim Keneally from upstate NY, and those old friends and new who helped me when I've felt most alone.
I have been lifted by your prayers and spirit.
The money raised will help immeasurably; I have no idea what it will cost in the end to get my studio in order, but you have given me a head start.
How can I thank you all of you enough?
To paraphrase a song I've written recently:
"you have made me a rich man, though I haven't got a dime, I'd forgotten what it feels like for sometime".
I think that pretty much says it all.
Thanks and God bless.
Mike Torres