[Yuri]

Well, I just can’t believe where this innocent little thread has gone. I was delighted with the opportunity to share some work produced by talented musician who I’ve been proud to call my friend since I was 17 years of age. John’s sincerity, ingenuity, intelligence and talent are self evident and need no defending from anyone. Diplomas, documents, certificates of accomplishments? Fine, but the school of life has much to offer as well. On this topic I’ll leave pedigrees to the dogs.

I have to wonder what brought Franco to this newsgroup as it is my understanding that although Gordon Lightfoot had some vocal training in his adolescence and studied music composition at the Westlake Music Academy, he had no formal training on the guitar. I have heard Gord himself lament that he has to use the capo and is not a great guitarist. Regardless, the end result became timeless melodies and even the existence of this group.

I shall look into removing this thread in it’s entirety as requested. My only regret that it has given Franco a platform, not to offer polite constructive criticism but rather to display his self importance and venomous views. I regret that our newest member Franco came in with all guns a-blazing with his introductory post to this newsgroup - a fine way to say hello. I will however look forward his contributions and insights on Lightfoot topics in future posts.

Once again, my apologies to John and to my Corfid family.

Yuri