The First Thirty by Jillip Naysinthe Paxson (and expanded version, The Silhouette Man )  tells the story of a person's efforts to make a difference in the world outside his window and the first thirty lessons learned along the way. Greg Forbes Siegman is the real-life person upon whom the two books are based.This part of the site has some of the photos, feedback and links regarding an event he was part of in April 2006.

In the Spring of 2006, Greg delivered the Keynote Address for the 66th Annual Volunteer Banquet of a prominent hospital in the Midwest. The other speakers included: Michelle Obama (VP, Community & External Affairs, for the hospital)

In conjunction with the event, Greg's art collection was exhibited for the attendees. Called My Sleepless Nights, the collection features his pencil-based portraits of historical, contemporary and cinematic figures who have inspired others to think, act, serve, give and lead. 

The portraits on display were framed with frames provided by Acrylic & Framing Solutions Inc. (the highly-recommended framing experts based at 437 N. Paulina St. in Chicago).

To inquire about having My Sleepless Nights  on display at your school, company, event or fundraiser, email Events@GregForbes.com

In conjunction with the event, organizers ordered hundreds of copies of The First Thirty  (co-authored by Greg & Jillip Naysinthe Paxson) for the attendees.

A number of students from a local university assisted Greg throughout the evening -- serving as 'One Day Interns'. In the past, other interns for Greg have served for one day, one semester or longer. They have come from schools like Princeton University, George Washington University, Loyola University of Chicago and a variety of high schools. To inquire about an internship, email GregsUpdate@gmail.com

"...Greg's story about [making a difference] 'right outside your window' sparked a fire in my belly about something I've wanted to do for some time now....Last night was great..." - Beverly Billy, Manager, Volunteer Services

"I thought Greg's speech was great, on-target for the event and was very well received." - Kenneth Kates, Interim CEO

...The drawings looked like black and white photos!...They captured the intensity of these respected individuals; incorporating with each portrait, Greg's embrace of each characters' significant role in our past society to make a difference in our future. - Deadre, event attendee

"...As a whole, this event was fun to be a part of....I was able to meet many volunteers and
several people who are responsible for the volunteer programs..." - Lauren, College student

 "...I LOVED Greg's  speech...I really would love for him to be able to [come meet my college classmates] -- he was such an amazing speaker, and I would really like to spread his ideas and enthusiasm for helping others...I look forward to reading the book!" -  Amanda, College student

"It was great to work with Greg [on this event.  He did] a very nice job. The speech was completely on message and I appreciated his thoughtfulness in both preparation and delivery..." - Leif Elsmo, Director of Volunteer Services
 
To inquire about booking Greg for an event with your school, company or organization, email Events@GregForbes.com  

To inquire about bulk orders of the book (The First Thirty ) or expanded version (The Silhouette Man), or workbook based on it (A Place To Sit ) for your company, organization, school, class - or to order them and donate them to a school or organization in your area, email Books@IdeaListEnterprises.com