Most of you know what I think of free advice. My feeling is that you usually get what you pay for. But that’s not to say I haven’t doled out my fair share of it. I’ve enjoyed this wonderful hobby for over three decades. And at some point you realize that it’s only right to give back by helping others to enjoy it as much as you have. Especially with new and/or inexperienced collectors. So yeah, when people reach out to ask my advice or opinion, I’m always more than happy to give it. As long as I make sure they understand that ultimately, they still have to make up their own mind. Which brings us to Lenny Messina.

As with many of the friends I’ve made in the hobby, Lenny was someone I met on CAF. As usual, it started out with mutual comments left on each other’s galleries. Then of course the follow up emails that inevitably came out of those comments. After we got to know each other a bit, from time to time Lenny would pick my brain about art. Usually what I thought about a piece or what I thought about the price tag. The usual stuff. Now I’m not sure if any of my advice ever led to anything for Lenny. And it’s not like I’ve been keeping count of how many times he’s reached out to me. But apparently he felt my input was significant enough to warrant this incredible “thank you” gift. So much for free advice. Then again, leave it to Lenny to reciprocate for something that was given freely. Which brings us to Phil Noto.

I’ve been a fan of Phil’s work for a while now. And I’ve been lucky enough to own a few nice pieces by him, with the high point being my gorgeous Supergirl painting. When I brought that Supergirl home from San Diego a few years back, I never thought I would want or need another Noto piece again. But it’s so nice to be proven wrong. And even nicer when it’s done through the kindness and generosity of a friend.

For those of you who don’t already know Lenny, he is definitely one of CAF’s good guys. A hard working family man who’s friendly and honest, who cares about people and treats them with respect, and of course generous to a fault. He’s the kind of guy you meet who makes you thankful for this site. So thanks Lenny! You really didn’t have to do this, but it just goes to show what kind of person you are. I’m privileged to know you my friend.

Oh, and one more thing Lenny. It’s only free advice when you don’t pay for it. LOL

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