Today, the PKE meters are redlining, the Containment Unit is rumbling suspiciously, and even Slimer is eyeing the cake — because it’s time to celebrate the 40th birthday of none other than Ian Gendel, the GBNJ’s beloved Leader of Research & Development, drummer extraordinaire, and general all-around swell dude.
The Rhythm of Research & Development
Not only is Ian the brains behind some of the greatest Ghostbusters mods this side of the Mississippi, but he also lays down beats like Ray Stantz lays down proton streams. That’s right — Ian is a drummer, which explains why every one of his creations is perfectly timed and hits harder than a Class 7 free-floating full-torso apparition.
Legend has it he can solder a smoke kit circuit while keeping perfect tempo to Got the Life without breaking a sweat. Truly, Egon would be proud.
Korn: The Soundtrack to His Spooktacular Life
Some people like Korn. Ian? Ian is possessed by Korn (though don’t worry, we checked — it’s not Gozer). With an astounding 46 live Korn shows under his belt, Ian has officially seen the band more times than most of us have had functional neutrona wands.
And if you ask him about his favorite band or starch, you’ll get the same answer both times: Korn. It’s dedication like that that makes a man worthy of the GBNJ R&D lab coat (yes, we assume he has one, covered in Ecto-Plasm and band patches).
The Smoke Kit King
Let’s not forget his jaw-dropping contributions to Ghostbusting tech. Ian is the creator of the ultimate smoke kit for the HasLabs Proton Pack AND the Spirit Ghost Trap — so good, it’s practically a spectral illusion. We’re convinced the man reverse-engineered this tech straight from Egon’s personal notes.
Thanks to Ian, GBNJ members now have proton packs and traps that don’t just look the part — they feel like they were wheeled straight out of the Firehouse workshop. Smoke, lights, sound — the whole spooky show.
Just a Damn Good Guy
Most importantly, Ian is the kind of person you want watching your six when Gozer comes knocking. Reliable, funny, inventive, and never afraid to mix a little Nu-Metal into his busting soundtrack, he’s the heart and soul of GBNJ’s workshop.
So today, as you blow out 40 Stay Puft-shaped candles, Ian, know that the entire team is behind you — proton streams charged and “Freak on a Leash” blasting.
🎵 “ARE YOU REAAAAADY?!” 🎵
We know you are.
Happy Birthday, Ian — from all of us at GBNJ.
Ghostbusters NJ 