As I mentioned last week, renowned Civil War painter Mort Kunstler recently came to town to sign prints of his newest masterpiece, “Merry Christmas General Lee.” I have had the privilege to have written several newspaper articles on Mort over the last year (ARTICLE 1, ARTICLE 2), and I am planning on doing another one for a CW magazine next year. Each time, I have had the pleasure of interviewing the man who has gone from being a ‘mythical hero’ to a personal friend. Our conversations are always enjoyable and I have learned some wonderful lessons in humility and grace from Mr. Kunstler. The generosity of this man is second to none, and he is as warm and approachable as anyone that I have ever met. People love Mort Kunster's paintings, and those that have had the pleasure of getting to know him are equally fond of the painter himself. 14 years ago I stood in line for over 2 hours to have Mort sign a book of mine. This time I was first in line. (Sometimes it really pays to be me.) Thank you Mort and thank you Don McKenzie of King James Galleries for your hospitality at the signing. It was a great way to spend a Saturday morning and I look forward to doing it again.

Fredericksburg                  Nov. 10, 2007

Especially for my friend Michael Aubrecht
with sincere appreciation for all of your help.

Mort