Got back yesterday afternoon from Macon. What a great couple days for me. I arrived in time to take in the second half of the member jam on Saturday afternoon. I picked up autographed copies of Sidney's Smith's amazing Allman photo book and Alan Paul & Andy Alendort's new SRV book, Texas Flood from the authors.

So many familiar characters hanging out and having a great time in the shade on a "Chamber of Commerce weather" Saturday. Big Dave - BDOB - was the master of ceremonies and chief coordinator of the jam. Well done. After the music ended, my brother and I took a good deep dive into the Big House. My second time inside since it opened officially and it does not disappoint.

That was followed by some food at The Rookery. When you walk into a place and Little Martha is playing on the stereo, it's a good sign!

Hung out the Marriott with Helen, Nancy and some Wanee regulars. We then went to the Grand Opera House. What a great small theatre. Friends of the Brothers were really, really good. If you are Junior Mac fan, that wouldn't really surprise you. Great band lineup including Andy Alendort and Jeff Sipe with lots of special guests including Taz Niederauer. Alan Paul has done a great job putting this group together. There was an extended auction during the set break before a strong second set. Lots of good camaraderie among the big crowed before during set break and after.

Afterward, we moved to Grant's Lounge for Berry D Oakley's Jive Ass Review. They also exceeded exceptions with Taz sitting in for 30 minutes and Mike Kach on keys and vocals. The scene at Grant's was like something out of a movie. People everywhere but kind to as you moved around. Just a full house of smiling people, in a hole in the wall and another big crowd out front. Whew. I headed out early back to my hotel after about 90 minutes at Grants.

I slept in and went to the Rosehill tree dedication for much loved Chance Royal, who passed this year. We had a nice gathering of about 75 people. I was pleased to see my old pal Bill Ector's memorial tree thriving. I then took in a mini-tour of the cemetery....my very first. The Allman plot is complete and landscaped. Butch has a headstone and is now alongside Gregg, Duane and Berry. It's very well done. I found Little Martha's headstone before heading back to Atlanta.

One year, I'll make it down to Gabba on Thursday for the kickoff party at West Gallery and Friday activities. But I was glad I could do 24 hours this time. The crowd was larger this year (probably due to Wanee ending).

Thank you Gabba board and all the volunteers, musicians and special guests for a great weekend! Put this event on your bucket list. It's a great time.