In Howard’s Memory
by Al Myers
Bob Geib (left) presenting the Howard Prechtel Memorial Plaque to Nationals meet promoter Frank Ciavattone (right).
One of the touching moments of our USAWA Nationals Championships in Boston was when Bob Geib presented Frank Ciavattone and the USAWA the beautiful plaque that he had made years ago to honor the memory of his friend and mentor Howard Prechtel. Bob gives Howard all the credit for his involvement in weightlifting and the USAWA. After Howard’s death Bob had this special tribute plaque made which he carried with him at all times to USAWA events. He always found a prominent place to display it during the competitions. It has a picture of Howard engraved on it, so it always felt to me that Howard was watching over us while we lifted. I know this plaque had special sentimental value to Bob and this had to be a hard decision turning it over to the organization. But as Bob said as he presented the plaque, “I feel I should be sharing this plaque and Howard’s legacy with the USAWA and not keeping it all to myself.” I promise that we will keep it in safe hands, and that it will always be part of the USAWA competitions.