James Wallace, Managing Editor
You know those people you meet along the way and it’s an instant connection, where you feel like you’ve known them your entire life? You look back over your years and there they are; a part of just about every single fond memory you can recollect. And then you come to the realization that you haven’t known this person your whole life but rather just a few short years. Yet, the presence they have as a friend is so meaningful that you can’t remember your life before them. That is Chase Whale for me. I always wanted an older brother growing up but with Chase, I get to feel like I have one.

I could go on forever about what he has accomplished in his tenure as Editor-In-Chief here at your friendly neighborhood movie website. About how he has built this site from the HTML code up out of nothing more than a unfailing love for film. And, simply put, how Gordon and the Whale would just be www.gordonandthe.com without him. But if you know Chase Whale, then you already know all these things to be true.

In short, what I, and all of our GATW colleagues, simply want to say is happy birthday, Mr. Whale. You’re one of the good ones.

But I’ll also let them tell you in their own special way. Spoiler Alert: It’s all one hundred times better than anything anyone ever wrote in your yearbook.

Rusty Gordon, Co-Founder
Chase is always there when I need him, usually before I even know I need him. He's a great friend.

Kate Erbland, West Coast Editor
On the occasion of Chase Whale's birth, I find myself (uncharacteristically) at a loss for words. There is just this - I am grateful for this day, because I am grateful for Chase. Happy birthday, brother.

Josh Brunsting, News Editor/Podcast Host
What can you really say about one Chase Whale.  I would go on and on about how awesome this guy is, but that wouldn’t do him justice.  One of the nicest, warmest, and funniest people I’ve ever had the chance to know.  Sure, he gave me a shot to write for the greatest website on the net, but he’s given me so much more than that.  I don’t think any amount of prose could really do him the right about of justice.  Simply put, Papa Whale is a one of a kind guy.

Will Schiffelbein, Copy Editor/Podcast Host/Writer
Oh there's stories been told about bloggers so bold, 
but none as fun as Chase Whale.
So you're in for a treat, because this fella is neat;
sit down for a tale you've n'er been told.

Many have pondered, which leads many to wonder,
how did this guy get his big break?
He seduced and sequestered all the actors and directors,
his charm did get him this plunder.

Well where is his ass, all the ladies do ask,
why he's see'n and watching galore.
With movie news breaking and film reels a'spinning,
Chase Whale is up to the task.

If you e'er do find this guy so divine,
please do give a tip of the hat,
For Chase Whale is a pal, I guarantee that. 
Even if he's barely 4 feet 9.

Drew Tinnin, Writer
Some bloggers bought their boss a gift for his birthday. Before opening the gift, the boss shook it slightly, and noticed that it was wet in the corner. Touching his finger to the wet spot and tasting it, he asked, "A bottle of wine?"

They replied, "No."

Again, he touched his finger to the box and tasted the liquid. "A bottle of scotch?"

They all replied again, "No."

Finally the boss asked, "I give up. What is it?"

They responded, "A puppy."

Allision Loring, Soundtrack/Festival Critic
Chasers - Thank you for giving me an outlet to share my voice and continue to explore my love of both film and music. I am so glad I got to spend the past week with you at Sundance and cannot wait for SXSW! You are an amazing person and I feel so lucky to have a friend like you in my life. Happiest of birthdays!!!

Sean Hunter, Podcast Host/Writer
A few months ago I acquired Chase Whale's social security number and credit card information. Since that time, I've been secretly living a double life as Mr. Whale and am happy to report things are going very well. Chase Whale has gotten 8 women pregnant, killed 3 children, and owns a controlling share in "Tiny Cat Furniture" stock. I love being Chase Whale II. 

Happy Birthday, you tiny baby man!

J.C. De Leon, Critic
He got me my start in writing about movies and he's always willing to help out with any advice I may need about it. He's had a bigger impact on my life than he thinks. Happy birthday, Chase!

John Mulhern, Podcast Host/Writer
Chase, you gave me such an amazing opportunity by letting me write for the site. But honestly, that's not the most important part to me. What is important is the amazing family you brought me into, full of such talented, amazing people. I always wanted a brother, now I have one.

Ryan Mahoney, Writer
I only wish beautiful people happy birthday. Chase Whale is a beautiful person. Happy birthday brah.

Alanna Raben, East Coast Correspondent

Dear Chase,

You're my sunshine after the rain, you're the cure against my fear and my pain, cause I'm losin my mind when you're not around, it's all (it's all) it's all because of you...

No really, it's all because of YOU that I am surrounded by the wonderful company I am with now at Gordon and the Whale. You have been such a great friend to me over the past year working together and I'm so stoked to now be a part of the team. Happiest of birthdays to you! Picklebacks await us at SXSW!

Kristal Bailey, Writer
Happy Birthday, Chase! I hope you have a fantastic birthday! You deserve it after all the hard work you've put into the site, making it the best and friendliest environment on the web.

Ronnita Miller, Writer
It’s not too often that you can say from the moment you met someone you knew your life would never be the same. For me, one such person, is Chase Whale. He’s my boss, my colleague, but most importantly, he’s my friend. Thanks to our friendship, I’ve been afforded more opportunities than I could have ever dreamed. Chase was one of the first people to encourage me to write. His belief in my voice is something I am eternally grateful for. That’s what you get with Chase. He sees the good in people. And if there is anything he can do to help them out, he can be counted on to do it. If ever he needed a pint of blood, a kidney, or just a shoulder to lean on, I can say without a doubt I’d give them all willingly.

Kacey Close, Code Ninja
You are one of the most genuine, honest, and sincere people I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. The love you have for the people who surround you is boundless and complete. You turn strangers into friends and friends into family with your charm and charisma, and you deserve only the best this crazy world has to offer.

Brian Kelley, Associate Editor
One couldn't ask for a better brother/clone/twin/friend/boss. Happy Birthday!

Feel free to leave your own birthday wishes to The Whale in the comments section below!