Issue 53 by The Purple Flower Gang

Monkee Shines

le Flo The Purp

wer Gang

Monkee Shines

Issue 53

Inside: Letter From the Editor Keeping Up With The Joneses Theory Of Evolution Dreams Do Come True The Kindness of Strangers Birthdays Personal Ads Pen Pals Rhino Handmade Here We Go Again Monkee Salad Colonial Downs Peter News Mike News Micky News David News Surfinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; The Web The Door To Opportunity Purple Ketchup in the UK

Editor: Cindy Bryant

Monkeeing around since 1987

Monkee Shines Inside

Membership dues are $10 (US & Canada) and $15 (Overseas). Ads are $25 for a full page, $10 for half page, and $5 for a quarter page. Money orders are preferred. Cash at own risk. Make all payments payable to Cindy Bryant NOT the PFG. Mail to: The Purple Flower Gang, 1803 Lucas Street, Muscatine, Iowa 52761.

Letter From the Editor ....... 3 Keeping Up With The Joneses ...................... 4 Theory Of Evolution ......... 10 Dreams Do Come True..... 15 The Kindness of Strangers ........................ 17 Birthdays ........................ 25 Personal Ads................... 28 Pen Pals ......................... 29 Rhino Handmade ............ 31 Here We Go Again ........... 32 Monkee Salad ................. 33 Colonial Downs ............... 38 Peter News ..................... 42 Mike News ...................... 43 Micky News .................... 44 David News ..................... 45 Surfin’ The Web............... 46 The Door To Opportunity .. 47 Purple Ketchup in the UK......................... 53

If you find a stamp in this area, your membership has expired with this issue. Please renew as soon as possible to assure your next issue. This is the only notice you will get.

Thanks to all who made this issue possible: Janet Litterio, Rachel & YvonneWalker, Jan Beaudrie & Jan Chilton, Rhino Handmade,The PFG Road Crew –Bonnie, Hannah, & Craig Borgh, Diane Klosak, Colleen Johnson, Kimmi Janvrin & Kevin Wright, & Shane Worden—who make fun and keep me sane!, Ken & Hazel Wilkinson ( we love you lots!) and of course the Monkees who brought us all

pfg@machlink.com Monkee Shines is printed by Mailboxes & Parcel Depot 2

Monkee Shines

Dear Gang, Sorry it has taken so long to get this issue out. I started taking college classes at night while working days and for a while I didn’t know whether I was coming or going. I am going to work on a set schedule which I will hopefully print in the next issue so you will better know when to expect the newsletter. I appreciate your patience. Like John Lennon said, “Life is what happens when you are making other plans.” Hope you have had a chance to catch the guys somewhere this summer. We would love to hear your story if you have. Looks like the Gang’s only outing together to see a Monkee this year will be David’s solo performance in Peoria in November (and then some

of us...and you know who you are….have chosen that date to desert us for the beaches of Florida!). Lots of news in this issue. A wonderful story from Hazel about the tour in the UK and a couple of sweet stories from right here in the US. Just look at that wonderful picture on this issue’s cover! Congrats to David on the new baby, Harry, and to Micky and Donna on their marriage. Read on my friends and let us know if you have been Monkeeing around! Cindy

Monkee Shines

The British Tour gives David a chance to catch up with family and take a walk down memory lane.

By Hazel Wilkinson Here they come walking down the street… Well, just David and Micky that is. They’ve arrived in England because they’re on TV, the “Good Morning Show.” It’s been a long wait for Monkee fans here. They paid their money last October but due to the tragic events in the USA it was canceled. Next on TV was an afternoon chat show introduced by Jane Asher (once girlfriend of Paul McCartney). David had been in the play “Peter Pan” when he was a teenager, Jane had played Wendy and David one of the Darling Boys. She had brought along a programme to show David. The interview went well. Micky was quite funny. They were, then, off to do more radio interviews and rehearse to get ready for the shows. Jessica rang us to tell us she would be traveling with the support band “Murmurs of Irma”. Her cousin Mark Vickers was the drummer, she was their manager. (Anita’s sister’s son.)

Never did find out where they got that name from. The first date was in Glasgow (Scotland) and Robert and friend Paul from work set off. (I was still in school). Only took 3 hours he told Ken (like a bat out of hell was Ken’s comment). David and all the guys were pleased to see him and a pass was obtained. He was “On Tour.” The show went well and good numbers but 2 boys were shouting out through David’s Oliver medley. Backstage Robert met up with Aunty Anita and cousins and socialized with the two bands back at the hotel. The 2 tour buses moved on to Newcastle next and Beverly and her friend met up with them there. Micky had Emily and Georgia with him. Charlotte was to join then in Sheffield where she is at University. They said the audience was more lively there and got up to dance at the front, led by the Dolenz and Jones girls. 4

Monkee Shines Ken and I set out for Sheffield on Sunday only 1 1/2 hours away and we got there before the tour buses. Our first priority was to get to see someone who recognized us when along came Jessica and Jerry. They escorted us to the tour managers’ office. These arenas are like a maze at the back. The tour buses arrived and it was kisses and hugs from everyone. Wayne, Dave Alexander, Sandy, Anita, and of course, brother David. Jessica introduced us to the members of the band. We had met Mark years ago on tour in the USA. Time for the sound check and I sat with the kids and listened to the program for the show. Ken was trying to take a few shots of the band and had Aviva in hysterics when he promised to give her mouth to mouth resuscitation if she collapsed on stage during the show. She hasn’t been too well lately and had medication for a slight heart problem. Robert, her husband, was traveling with her. They had a car to do some sight seeing en-route. Backstage we sat down for a family meal and tried to catch up with everyone’s projects, etc. Judith and Laurie Haley arrived and he wore the black satin tour jacket with the huge logo on the back. Ken whisked him away to the bands dressing

room and I chatted with Judith. I was next, whisked to the front of the stage where we met up with Band 6 members, Sue Waller, Mary Roe, and Karen Mott from Canada. Next we met up with the 3 Japanese girls. Yoko, Tomomi, and Kyoko, and they were delighted to meet up with us. Only Yoko could speak English. Trina greeted us in the foyer and she had her new fiancé’s parents and family with her. Charlotte had a group of her college friends. Basil Foster and his family from England were also coming in. Time for the show and we sat with Judith and Laurie. “The Murmurs of Irma” played about 45 minutes. They were good and went down well with the younger people there. There was a short break and on stage George (stage manager helped by Annabel) made ready for the Monkees. The 8 piece band played a medley of tunes. (We hadn’t met the 3 guys in the brass section before). They sounded great. Then Micky and David came on to a huge cheer. They both wore leather look black trousers, white shirts, and long length jackets. They both worked hard on stage and chatted about the Monkees’ series and how it had been a team effort with Peter and Mike contributing good 5

Monkee Shines songs along with the other writers. David threw in a couple of Ken’s jokes…(Oh No! You’ve heard them Cindy!) He mentioned us all by name and dedicated “I’ll Love You Forever” to me and the family which was nice. They both did solo songs and changed at the back inbetween. During the encore the girls once again got up at the front led by Micky’s 3 girls and danced. It was great. Backstage was hectic with so many guests. Micky in one room and David in a locker room (it was an ice arena). The tour company had given Sue Waller 6 passes for each evening and she had tried to share them out. Micky came out to the front first and gave autographs and have a very brief chat and then Jessica went to get David. He tried to chat briefly with everyone including the Japanese girls. Both had to be rushed away to say hello to their guests who were patiently waiting. It was nearly midnight before they all boarded the buses for their journey to Manchester where they would spend two nights. Monday was a free day to catch up on sleep and do a little sightseeing. Anita said she would like to see the new Lowery Museum and Jerry and friends took a sightseeing tour bus around Manchester where a

lot of new buildings have sprung up since the IRA bombed it about 4 years ago. Back at the hotel in the evening they were all winding down and having a sing song round the hotel piano. Dave Alexander was playing and the fire alarm went off. They had to get outside (a small fire in the kitchen). Jessica had gone to her room and didn’t appear so David was about to go and get her until a fireman went up. David said he had just enough time to grab his passport and credit card. All were okay, thank goodness. Early the next day Beverly collected David, Annabel, and Robert Szika, David’s friend, and they set off in her little car to visit the area where we grew up. First stop was the street where we lived (no houses now). Next stop was the church and schoolroom/Sunday School room and at the back the Scout Hut/Hall where David joined the cubs at 7 years old. They chatted to a man repairing the roof. He couldn’t believe his eyes Just down the road again and into the playground of our old school, Varna Street Junior/Senior. The caretaker (janitor) saw them wandering around and let them in and gave them a tour. David couldn’t believe his eyes when he saw his old 6

Monkee Shines school desk on a platform with his name carved on it. Annabel sat at it and he took photos then they looked around the other rooms. Next it was on to the cemetery to see our family graves. The stone needed cleaning and words replaced. We are all going to get that done soon. Beverly then took him to see her mum and dad (Beryl and Alan) and there was just time for a cup of tea before Beverly returned them to the arena for the sound check for the Manchester show. We met up with them backstage and David was so excited to have been on a tour of the old places. Relations began arriving and it was as if they were coming out of the wood work—cousins. Children, and their children. Everywhere we went there was someone who knew us. We sent Robert to the box office to wait for our friends Len and Shelia and Beverly was there shepherding the Joneses in the right direction. They were only just settled and the show began/ I sat with the Japanese girls the first half and they were enjoying the show. Just a short break and you could feel the excitement building up waiting for “Our David”. Bouncing onto the stage, they came and what a reception. The Joneses were in

fine voice and that was just those in front of the stage!!! David talked about his life in Manchester, how he had visited his old haunts that day and dedicated the song “Manchester Boy” to the school caretaker and to all his friends and fans. He dedicated “I’ll Love You Forever” to Beryl, me, and his girls and all the family. Quite a tear jerker! Show over we were all chatting and waiting eagerly for the “Meet and Greet”. Micky came out first and went all the way around the room even though he didn’t know anyone . Jessica was there to help him out. She got the fan club passes sorted into a group and brought david to sign and have photos taken with them and he was then free to say hello to each group crushed into a pretty small room. Not much space for photos and it was pretty chaotic. We said our goodbyes with hugs all round and we were off home, “shattered!” This Monkee business is getting too much for us oldies!! Beverly told us she took David back to the school Wednesday with Dave Alexander, Sandy, and made a video of the rooms. David got onto the stage and sang a medley from Oliver to just the caretaker and his wife. Beverly said he wrote a note to leave for the Head 7

Monkee Shines teacher and children and it said, “Work hard. Listen to your teachers. I’ll be back. David Jones” I’ll bet they got such a shock when they returned after the Easter holiday break. They were off to Birmingham for the show there. Robert and Beverly also went onto that venue and said that it was good. Then onto Wembley on the tour bus. Sister Lynda and her grandchildren and Bobbi Boyce and Anita’s sisters were some of the guests there so

backstage they would have been catching up on the family news. The English fans had a long wait for this tour and all those we met said it was well worth waiting for! Just heard the show went great in Ireland. Only a small venue but 1,000 packed in. Quite a few Irish stars supported it. David did an Irish jig (Michael Flatley) and they went wild, Hazel

Monkee Shines

While staring off into space one day at work I came up with a few more theories of evolution to share with you. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing how, once you start thinking in this frame the theories just come together all by themselves. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d loved to hear your theories so send them in!

Linking Academy Award winner Russell Crowe and Academy Award winning movie A Beautiful Mind was a piece of cake.

A Beautiful Mind was directed by Ron Howard.

Russell Crowe starred in A Beautiful Mind.

Ron Howard starred in the TV series Happy Days.

Monkee Shines Happy Days featured the character of Fonzie.

Beautiful Mind, Ron Howard, and Happy Days are all Monkees related. Or how about this masterpiece!? Country singer/actor Dwight Yoakum is Monkees related.

Micky Dolenz auditioned for the part of Fonzie.

Dwight Yoakum was featured in the movie Slingblade. The movie Slingblade starred actor Billy Bob Thornton.

Micky is a Monkee Billy Bob Thornton is married to actress Angelina Jolie.

Therefore, Russell Crowe, A 11

Monkee Shines Actress Angelina Jolie is the daughter of actor Jon Voight.

Actress Faye Dunaway was also featured in the movie on Juan De Marco. The movie Don Juan De Marco starred actor Johnny Depp.

Actor Jon Voight starred in the movie The Champ.

Actor Johnny Depp also starred in the movie Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eating Gilbert Grape. The movie Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eating Gilbert Grape also features actor Leonardo DiCaprio.

The movie The Champ also featured actress Faye Dunaway.

Monkee Shines Actor Leonardo DiCaprio also starred in the movie Titanic.

David Jones is a Monkee. Therefore, Dwight Yoakum is Monkees related.

The movie Titanic featured actor Victor Garber. Victor Garber starred in the movie version of Godspell in the role of Jesus.

And one last Theory especially for Bonnie and Jan Beaudrie :-) George W. Bush is Monkees related….yes he really is! George W. is the son of George Bush.

David Jones starred in a stage production of Godspell in the role of Jesus.

George Bush’s Vice President was Dan Quayle. Dan Quayle took on Hollywood when TV’s Murphy Brown became an unwed mother.

Monkee Shines Peter Noone was a member of the Teen Idols Tour. David Jones was on the Teen Idols Tour.

Murphy Brpwn was played by Candice Bergen. One of Murphy Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love interests was played by Scott Bakula. Scott Bakula starred in his

David Jones is a Monkee. Therefore President Bush is Monkees Related!

own series Quantum Leap. One of the guest stars on Quantum Leap was Peter Noone.

Send us your Theories!

Monkee Shines

Rachel Walker onstage with David at Epcot

Monkee Shines Thanks to super sweet Davy Jones for making my daughter's dream come true. Rachel has been a fan since 1985. I think her first full sentence was "I love you Davy" ... really! From watching TV and listening to the radio and dancing to her Monkees records, cassettes and CDs Rachel's love for her favorite singer and actor has never wavered. When Davy called out Rachel's name and took her on stage to sing with him we were thrilled. It made my Mom cry with joy and I was so happy for Rachel ... I know how much this meant

to her. After the show a lot of the audience came over to Rachel and congratulated her on a great performance. Sandy G. (the drummer) talked with Rachel too ... he even gave her a drumstick. What a nice guy. These moments will be etched in Rachel's heart forever. Davy you're such a caring and thoughtful person. I close with those famous words that so many of your loving fan's ... including Rachel chant "I love you Davy." Yvonne Walker

Rachel at her graduation

Monkee Shines

By Janet Litterio As you read this, please keep in mind that I am very much a novice with anything remotely concerning, concerts, celebrities, contacting celebrities, etc. Also, I have been a fan of David's since I was 10 in 1966, but it has only been very recently that I've become an 'active fan or follower.' One last thing before I begin, even though one of my favorite songs is 'Daydream Believer' that title does not describe me at all. I guess you'd say I'm a realist, I see situations as they are, not as I would like them to be. So, I tell you that because if someone would have told me a few years ago that I would be inviting Davy Jones to perform at our Fest, or even have thought about doing that, going to concerts, sending him letters, meeting him, and all

the other things that have happened, and people I've met since, I would have been the first one to laugh in their face and say, 'No, not me.' But, this all has happened, and the way I see it is, 'after 35 years, why not go with it?' Before going to the concert last June 12 in Chicago, I was hoping several events would occur. 1. To see David's awesome performance, thus enjoy the concert -- that was pretty much a given. 2. To try and get a letter to him that day that contained a performance request for our Fest...this was something that could happen, a remote possibility. 3. To meet David, get the chance to talk with him about performing at the Fest, and also to get my pic ture t ake n wit h 17

Monkee Shines him....this was pretty much a daydream.

now? They were kind enough to suggest bringing the letter to the concert hall and someone with the venue would give it to the Monkees crew. Thank goodness, that did happen. After all this, Tom and I relaxed a bit at the bar and people with Monkees ID tags were to and fro paying for their lunch orders. There were only a handful of people sitting at the bar, and I was quite surprised when a woman stood next to me and paid for an order. My, she's got a Monkees tag on. In her hand, I noticed a wallet, a legal sized envelope, and cash. When she gave the bartender the cash, I saw my handwriting looking at me--Mr. David Jones--oh my goodness, he'll probably get the letter. I was quite surprised I was able to accomplish that much...remember I'm new to all this. After this, we decided to enjoy one of the first warm days of early summer as we sat outside. On

I have never attempted anything like this in all my 45 years of life. I had absolutely no idea of how to begin to have any of these events happen, with the exception of going to a concert...I did figure out how to buy tickets. I had sent David a letter inviting him to the Fest. Since I was going to the concert, I brought a copy of the letter with me, and thought I'd give it to someone at the adjoining hotel to give him. My husband Tom and I arrived early -- to enjoy a day in downtown Chicago. But, first we stopped to try and get the letter to David. When I asked someone at the registration desk if they would get the letter to him, I couldn't believe they told me 'they' weren't staying at that hotel. Oh no, I thought what do I do 18

Monkee Shines the way out, Tom asked security if The Monkees were here yet. No, they're not, they're already an hour late. At that point, we decided not to wander too far. Maybe an hour after that, activity started. Men with walkie-talkies were in front of the building. It all looked very official, so we moved close to the door and sat on a bench just observing. Soon, the band members walked in...I was able to recognize them after attending a few shows. Peter and a woman round the corner and walk in. I'm holding my breath now, by the process of elimination I figured who could be next. Up to this point, we may have been invisible ..no one noticed us. Well, David is the next person to come around the corner. As much as I wanted to run over to him, I was afraid the tour manager would tell me to get lost, so I didn't. But, being the kind

man that David is, he saw us, flashed us his million dollar smile and waved. I returned the smile and waved. After composing myself, I was able to speak and asked Tom if he saw Davy. Tom was impressed that David was the only one to acknowledge us. A few minutes later, I got the nerve to approach the tour manager and ask him if we could get passes to meet 'the Monkees.' Even though we were told no, something told me that I would be able to get my golden opportunity to meet Mr. Jones. I didn't have any idea how, but too many things happened for it not to happen. Well, after a several minutes, we decide to go back into the building. We were able to hear them rehearse. There were a handful of people listening as well. A couple, a woman by herself, and a young man. For some reason, that young man struck me. We could see Peter and Micky getting ready to de19

Monkee Shines scend the stairs while David was singing. They both stopped and signed some pictures for that young man and then left. At that point, I didn't care if we were there until 2004, if there was any chance Davy would be leaving I wasn't moving. Well, that young man asked security if Davy Jones was upstairs, and the guard told him 'I haven't seen him." The poor young man looked bewildered, so for some unknown reason, I felt compelled to go talk to him. Little did I know it was the best decision I could have made. 'I heard you ask if Davy was upstairs, and I heard what the guard told you. That was Davy that just finished singing, he IS here, I saw him walk in about a half an hour ago. He smiled and waved to us.' The young man said 'oh, he's here? I don't know what he looks like now, do you?' 'Yes I do,' was my reply. He then asked Tom and I if we'd go

up the other stairway with him and see if I could see David up there.....he wanted Davy to sign some pictures for him. My only concern was being banned from the building if we were caught, but he asked me again, and made it very clear that he didn't know what 'Davy looked like now.' Well, we did get upstairs......and as my luck would have it, I didn't see David. I told the young man that I also wanted to meet David, talk with him, possibly have him sign my copy of his book, and get my picture taken with him. What else can you say to a stranger that you're sneaking around a concert hall with? He thanked me for looking, and I don't think there was anyone more disappointed than I. My friend was meeting us for dinner about this time, so we decided to go into the restaurant, but something told me not to go into the restaurant just yet. So, we stalled a bit and chatted with the greeter. Just as 20

Monkee Shines found Davy, Davy's waiting for me and wants to meet me. Oh my God, I thought I had died and gone to heaven. I never, ever thought I would hear anyone say those words to me. Davy, waiting for ME? Wants to meet ME? Let's run!!! As we were running, reality checked in.......and I asked the kid, 'how does Davy know me? How did you see him? Why did you say Davy is waiting for me?" None if this made any sense, yet we were still running. Well, the young man tells me that he saw Davy, Davy signed some pictures for him, and God bless the young man, he told Davy there was this girl inside that wanted to meet him, and would Davy please wait until the kid came inside and found me. God bless Davy too, as he told the kid that he was on his way to dinner, but he would wait. So we get to the spot where the kid had

Janet and David Photo courtesy Janet Litterio

we were walking into the restaurant, I can hear the door fling open, and I here a male voice say, 'there you are, I couldn't find you a few minutes ago.' I turned around and it was the young man that was looking for Davy. Then he says 'Hurry, I found Davy, he's outside waiting for you, he wants to meet you. He's on his way to dinner. Hurry.' I thought who is this lucky person that Davy's waiting for and wants to meet? I looked around, no one else was standing there. I asked ' are you talking to me?' Yes, and he repeats that he had 21

Monkee Shines been standing with Davy, and of course Davy's not there. Another golden opportunity lost, or so I thought. But, the kid seemed to know which way Davy was going, as he told us to keep running. Now, we're running across a major intersection, and I was sure we were going to get mugged. So, I ask the kid, how do you know which way he went? AND, more importantly, how did you know what he looked like when you told me an hour ago, you had no idea what he looked like now." He never answered those questions. So, I asked again, how do you know where he is--I don't see him. He tells me he sees him ahead of us. I tried to look ahead, but I'm too short to see over people's heads. The kid says bend down, look through people's legs, see the guy with the light pants ahead of us? Yes, I do. Well, that's him. Oh my God, it is, I remember what he was

Janet and David Photo courtesy Janet Litterio

wearing....this energized me to forge ahead. We all kept running.....and after a block and a half, I say to Tom, I cannot run any longer. If we ever catch up to him, I'll have a heart attack at his feet. See if you can get him to stop. How, Tom asks. Call his name, if he doesn't stop, another opportunity will be lost, but I'll still be alive. So, Tom runs ahead and calls out 'Davy' Well, Davy stops, walks over to Tom, shakes his hand and since Davy is facing my direction, I hear him say' sure where is she?' After all this run22

Monkee Shines ning, I was thinking of just catching up to him, NEVER gave a thought to what I would say if we did meet up with him. So, Davy's looking for me, I wave and start to pick up my pace a bit. Now, again, I NEVER in a million years, could picture Davy Jones waiting on a sidewalk for me to catch up to him. I don't even think my feet were touching the ground as I went to him. All I was thinking was don't trip, stumble, fall, gag or vomit. I truly had no idea of my surroundings......I thought I must have actually had the heart attack from running , and seeing him in front me, this must be heaven. My knees are shaking, and I don't think it's from the running. Oh my God, I'm almost up to him, this is all in slow motion....so I thank him for stopping......I could barely talk, and I ask tell him 'sorry, I need to catch my breath.' Well, I recovered, we chatted, he signed his book and some pictures. I

think he spent 10-15 minutes with us. Finally, the door to opportunity had been opened. So, on the way back, this young man is still with us. I had no idea he was still around. I thanked him time and again....as if it was not for him, I would have not had the opportunity.....I was so impressed by his selfLESSness, I had the opportunity of a lifetime. So, I asked if we could buy him dinner. NO, he replied. Well, how about something to drink, NO, he replied. Ok, well

Janet and David Photo courtesy Janet Litterio

Monkee Shines meet up with us at the concert later. I'm not going to the concert he replied. Can we buy you a ticket? No, I'm going home now. Ok, now I was back to not understanding ..what were you doing here? Well, I just came to get some pictures signed for my Mom. By this time, we were back to the venue, and we asked him to join us again. No, and he simply kept walking. So, that's my story.

My only regret was not getting that young man's name. I would have loved to send his Mom a note telling her how kind her son was to a stranger that day. That due to his kindness, he provided a golden opportunity to me...something I could not have done if it were not for him. Something that will stay with me forever. It restores my faith in humanity when I think of that day.

Photos courtesy Janet Litterio

Monkee Shines

Welcome to the world! Harrison Rand Jones McFadden Born July 2, 2002 6 lbs. 6 oz. With black hair Proud grandfather David Jones assisted with the birth. Congratulations to all!

14 15 16 19

David Crosby Rose Marie Julie Newmar Hazel Wilkinson Billy J Kramer Elly de Kievithvan Leeuwen 22 Ron Dante 26 Bob Cowsill Joanne Jennifer Taylor

August 5 7

Billie Hayes Jason Nesmith Jack Good 8 Charlotte Dolenz Nita Talbot 10 Ronnie Spector 13 Marilyn (Schlossberg) La Salandra 25

Monkee Shines 27 28 29 30

Chip Douglas Barbara Ianolli Michael Jackson John Phillips

October 2 8 9 13 14 17 18 20 22 23 lo 24

September 1 3

Barry Gibb Georgia Dolenz Arte Johnson 4 Jessica Jones 5 John Stewart 6 Henry Diltz 8 Irwin Charone 9 Stu Phillips 10 Jessica Nesmith Nurit Wilde Danny Hutton 12 THE MONKEESâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; TV SHOW PREMIERED 14 Barry Cowsill 16 Helene Winston 17 Steve Blauner 18 Frankie Avalon 19 Paul Williams 22 David Pearl 23 Kathleen Scott David Price 24 Gary Marsden 26 Michael G. Bush 27 Carl Ballantine 28 Kimmi Janvrin 29 Tommy Boyce James Frawley Jerry Lee Lewis

Talia Jones Bill Martin John Entwistle Lisa James Cliff Richards Gary Puckett Chuck Berry Jay Siegal Ward Sylvester Annette Funicel-

Jennifer McLeod Bill Wyman 28 Dave Evans Grace Slick

November 3

Larry Gelman Lulu 5 Rob Grill Peter Noone 6 Colleen Johnson 7 Johnny Rivers Celine Allan 9 Severn Darden Maria Tereza Pinho Gomes Da Silva 11 Jack Keller Paul Cowsill 12 Neil Young 26

Monkee Shines 14

Freddie Garity

15 22 24 26

Petula Clark Diane Klosak Jim Yester Tina Turner Bonnie Borgh Denny Doherty Felix Cavaliere Dick Clark

29 30

Little Richard Phil Spector Ray Nitschke DAVID JONES MICHAEL Ne-

SMITH Red Rhodes Bo Diddley Beverly Ann Clark

December 2 3 7 8 9 11

Janelle Scott Len Lesser Rachel Walker Joe Korowski Donny Osmond Teri Garr Richard Devon 14 George Furth 15 Rodney Bingenheimer Dave Clark 17 Anita Jones 18 Keith Richards 20 Charlie Callas 21 Frank Zappa Carl Wilson James Elswick 22 Ivan IannoliTorkelson Robin & Mau rice Gibb 23 Cyndi Torres 27

Monkee Shines

Cindy,

Colleen, We’ll keep bugging you until you get a %$#$# Computer!!!!!! The Gang

If high school were only half as exciting when I was there! Gives new meaning to the term “teacher’s pet”! Shane

Hey Gang, I know this has been a tough year personally for a lot of us. Keep hanging in there! Things have got to get better, don’t they???? Cautiously optimistic in WI

Shane, I thought the phrase was an APPLE for the teacher! Blushing in Iowa! Hannah, How’s school? Aunt Cindy

CO in WI, Who says? PII

Five Russian Released The Monkees Collectable CDs for sale (Three CDs include two albums in one CD, two CDs are with bonus tracks). Please email me at: vinyljoe@tut.by Address for ordinary letters is: Vinyl Joe 220 050 Minsk-50 Box 393 Republic of Belarus 28

Monkee Shines

Maria Tereza Pinho Gomes Da Silva Rua Virginia Vidal No 59 Tanque Jacarepagua Rio De Janeiro RJ Cep 22.735=080 Brazil

Susan Jensen 210 Washington Street Audbon, Iowa 50025-1133 Christina Gautreaux 1221 11th Street Lot 5 Dewitt, Iowa 52742

Debbie Kolbaba PO Box 89 Holstein, Iowa 51025

Mark Ebert 2874 Merrymount Ct. Apt D Columbus, Ohio 43232

Cyndi Torres 3703 Country Club Drive #11 Long Beach, California 90807

Celine Allan 9208 Angora Street Dallas, Texas 75218

***** E-pals

Julie Harris 901 Lake Elmo Avenue N #519 Lake Elmo, Minnesota 55042

Mark Ebert ebertenterprises@juno.com Janet Literio janet6356@juno.com

James Elswick 5017 W 2nd Street South Bloomfield, Ohio 43103

Shane Worden idolthreat@prodigy.net 29

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Hey Rhino Handmade fans! I know it's been a little while since you heard from us, so we thought we'd check in and let you know what's been going on lately. The Handmade label has been in a transition period for the last couple of months. We've been working diligently to update and improve many aspects of the Handmade operation. Nevertheless, our mission remains the same: to bring you CDs, LPs, and videos ranging from the highly collectible to the wonderfully odd. Some of the improvements include: a.. Our New Website We have a boss new look, easy navigation, and a chance for you to interact with other members of the Handmade community. Check it out: www.rhinohandmade.com. a.. Solid Release Dates In the past, some of our titles haven't always shipped when we said they would. Now, we won't announce our titles for pre-order until everything's completed and ready to go. a.. Cool New Titles Can't say too much about these right now, but rest assured that we've been holed up with our thinking caps on, plotting out releases for 2002 that we know you'll love. Get ready collectors and music fans, we'll have details for you sooner than you think. We would also like to take this opportunity to let you know which Handmade titles are getting close to going out of print. If you've been waiting for a rainy day to buy these, now is the time (before it's too late)! "The Monkees "Headquarters Sessions" So, you feelin' lucky...? Master the Monkee minutia in our contest and you could win a signed print from legendary photographer Henry Diltz. Enter HERE and try your luck! Well, that's all for now. Thanks for hangin' in there with us. Take some time and check our new website (www.rhinohandmade.com), while we put the finishing touches on our next Handmade release. We guarantee it'll be worth the wait! --Dr. Rhino 31

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the U.K. and even designed their own clothing line. SClub7 has sold 10 million albums worldwide. The updated "Monkees" would include sketch comedy and music elements featuring four handpicked male stars, similar to the original series, which aired on NBC from 1966 to 1968. The original show continues to hold cult status, while two original members are touring under the Monkees moniker. "The Monkees" was previously revived in 1987 as the short-lived syndicated comedy "The New Monkees." Fuller currently serves as an executive producer on Fox's hit reality series "American Idol." The original U.K. format, "Pop Idols," was created by Fuller's 19 Entertainment banner.

HOLLYWOOD (Variety) Hey, hey, "The Monkees" may be returning to NBC. The network is in discussions with the creator of "American Idol" to revive the format, featuring a new American boy band in the roles made famous by Davy Jones, Mickey Dolenz, Michael Nesmith and Peter Tork. NBC would ready the project for a fall 2003 launch. Simon Fuller, who also created and managed the Spice Girls ( newsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; web sites), has secured rights to the "Monkees" concept and name. "The Monkees" also served as inspiration for Fuller's teen band SClub7, a pop group of seven members who starred in their own international TV show, released a number of hit records in 32

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By Shane Worden

Hey there Gang...as promised in the last issue of Monkee Shines, I wanted to go back and review some of the highlights from Shoe Suede Blues' new album, "Saved By The Blues", plus there were a few other topics of interest that I wanted to bring to your attention as well. But first thing's first...the new SSB album marks the first time that the band has gone into the recording studio to lay down tracks for release. And I must say that the results are pretty impressive. The title track, sung by Peter, is my favorite from the album. Written by Michael Levine, who also penned "Since

You Went Away" and "Stranger Things Have Happened", features an interesting hybrid of straight forward blues and what I would call a " ps eudogospel" sound that is especially apparent in the chorus. Listen in the background for some underlying vocals from James Lee Stanley. Saved By The Blues combines new arrangements of old standards like "Hound Dog" and "Route 66" along with original compositions from the band such as "Dress Sexy For Me", and "Cab Driver", the latter co-written by the band's newest member, Richard Michaels. Let me 33

Monkee Shines tell you, this guy has to be heard to be believed. He's got one heck of a soulful voice that is absolutely perfect for the blues. Check out his vocals on "Big Boss Man" and tell me that you don't agree. (He actually reminds me a LOT of Bill Champlin, if that name rings bells with any of you.) Just like SSB's first album, I feel I have to warn you that this band does not exist merely as a showcase for Peter, even though he does handle the lion's share of the vocals. It is apparent that the music is the star of the show here, with all the members having equal opportunity to add their own distinctive trademarks on the material.

sounds extremely crisp and clear, and while their first live album wasn't bad, it wasn't great, either. I think the band took careful pains to put out a truly professional album this time around, whereas that first "live" album may have just been more of a promotional tool to get the "SSB" name out there more than anything else, and to give the fans something to take away from their early live performances. I should also mention that Saved By The Blues is not a fullfledged studio effort. About half of the album was recorded at late 2001 dates in California. But there is a difference between the live material on the first album, and that which is on this new release. I think the tunes on the first album showcased a band that was much more "loose", i.e. a band that was not afraid to throw in a little extended solo here or there when prompted to, or to come up with some funny dia-

While I'm on the subject of SSB's first album, I should note that Saved By The Blues is quite a different animal than the band's freshman effort. For starters, the sound is *vastly* improved. This release 34

Monkee Shines logue or playful conversation within the songs themselves. This release seems to be much more straightforward. I'm not saying one way is better than the other, just different. Saved By The Blues is out on the Beachwood label, along with Peter's other albums as a solo artist and with James Lee Stanley. You can find all the ordering info on the web at :

concert from last summer on DVD and compact disc. Latest word on that concert is that it is now being slated for an August release, pending Jerry ("That's Show Biz") Renino's participation behind the mixing board. I am still not entirely convinced of this latest in what has been a LONG string of promises from King Biscuit, but at least it does appear that things are starting to move forward on this project. Rumor has it that the proposed DVD and CD will be released relatively close to one another, with the CD possibly containing a few less

www.shoesuedeblues.com or through the tried and true Beachwood Label mailing address: 4872 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Suite 223, Woodland Hills, CA 91364. While you are at it, ask about James Lee Stanley's new solo effort, "Traces Of The Old Road", also available on Beachwood. Last time around, I talked a bit about King Biscuit's proposed release of the Monkees' Anaheim 35

Monkee Shines tracks than the DVD will. Keep checking www.kingbiscuit.com for the latest updates on that. Also, I wanted to point out that David and Micky have been selling a new live CD of their own, while on their tour this summer. This shouldn't be confused with the "Live in Las Vegas" CD they were selling that featured Peter Tork on last year's tour--this new one, which was recorded in Toronto early this year, features only Micky and David. It has been available at all of the summer tour stops, and for those people who are connected to the web, Brad Waddell at monkees.net has been taking orders for copies on occasion for those people who have not had a chance to catch the show live this year.

the new "digs". While you're at it, there are a few new items up for sale and download that I should point out. Nez, always the groundbreaker in whatever he does, recently experimented around in the field of electronic music, and the folks at Videoranch convinced him to make one of his endeavors, which the Ranch-hands have dubbed "Neztronica" available for download. Be forewarned, however. This puppy is about 15 minutes long, so be sure that you're downloading on a fast connection or be prepared to wait a while! This song has absolutely nothing to do with the still-forthcoming Nez album, "Rays", which continues to make steady progress. There continue to be updates from the Videoranch folks about the people he is bringing in to work on the album, and the amount of time he is spending to get it to sound just right. In fact, it seems as though Mike's continuing work in the world of

There's a bunch of Videoranch news to report this time around, as well. The most obvious being the website's new look. Take a look around and check out 36

Monkee Shines writing fiction has taken a temporary back seat in deference to "Rays". There's no doubt that this album is going to be something special, but oh it's so hard to be patient! Still no word yet on a tour to promote the album, but it remains a possibility. Another note of interest is that the audio-book version of "Neftoon Zamora" is still making headway, and should be available soon. Word is that Mike's son, Christian, will be providing the music for that release.

and save your money for the "Music Box" boxed set instead. According to Maggie McManus in the final installment of Monkee Business Fanzine, Rhino still holds plans to release the Monkees series on DVD, probably in separate first and second season packages sometime next year, which may include a wide variety of extra features that range from outtakes and extra footage to audio commentaries. HEAD may be re-released on DVD with some audio commentaries, as well. There has also been some talk surfacing of a new Monkees release from Rhino Handmade in the near future, too. This one is slated to feature archives from sessions surrounding the first two Monkees albums, in much the same m a n n e r t h a t "Headquarters Sessions" featured the recording process surrounding the Monkees' third original release. You can be sure to find a detailed review of

And lastly, for a little news from the world of the Rhinos. New to stores is yet another greatest hits compilation; this one as a part of Rhino's "Essentials" collection. But for those of us who have bought just about everything Rhino has thrown at us, this new one is terribly NONessential. No new tracks, no new remixes, no new liner notes. Unless you're a completist of the Nth degree, I say skip this one 37

Monkee Shines that compilation in these pages once that project comes down the pike.

the music store or on television.......

As always, keep your eyes and ears open, as you just never know where the guys are going to pop up in

Davy Jones former teen idol and heartthrob of the '60's television classic The Monkees, recently completed a series of television and radio spots for Virginia's Colonial Downs in preparation for the Thoroughbred season opener on June 21st. Jones, who is a spokesperson for the track's sixth annual racing season, attracted considerable attention from local and regional media while in town. Still actively touring, performing old favorites and new material on the concert stage, Jones will be at Colonial Downs

in "Stars of the Monkees" Friday, July 12 - on the eve of the $500,000 Virginia Derby. An avid and able horseman, Jones rides both flat and jump races as an amateur rider as often as he can (but has not yet been seen in the saddle at Colonial Downs). He stabled one of his young turf-bred horses here last year and developed great respect for the facility, particularly the track surfaces. He was in attendance on August 4, when his jump horse Maternity 38

Monkee Shines Leave captured a steeplechase event at the New Kent oval. Jones has revealed plans to stable several horses here during the upcoming five-week Thoroughbred race meeting and will return to the track several times this season in addition to the concert appearance to visit his horses and observe their progress.

ily alternative. It's inexpensive, safe and fun." Colonial Downs opens for live racing June 21st and continues a fiveweek meet through July 23rd. The track will operated every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 1pm and Monday and Tuesday at 4pm. The track will present special holiday cards on July 4th and 5th featuring a giant fireworks show after racing each night. For more information, please contact Colonial Downs at 804-966-7223 Davy Jones former teen idol and heartthrob of the '60's television classic The Monkees, recently completed a series of television and radio spots for Virginia's Colonial Downs in preparation for the Thoroughbred season opener on June 21st. Jones, who is a spokesperson for the track's sixth annual racing season, attracted considerable attention from local and regional media while in town. Still actively tour-

His favorable assessment of the track and subsequent positive experiences here in 2001 led to his becoming spokesperson for Thoroughbred racing in 2002. During his recent visit, Davy Jones expressed his hope that the public will see that there is much more to horseracing than gambling. "One of my main goals is to encourage families to enjoy an afternoon at the races. With today's busy lifestyle, families seem to spend less and less time together. A day here at Colonial Downs, or any track, for that matter, is a great fam39

Monkee Shines ing, performing old favorites and new material on the concert stage, Jones will be at Colonial Downs in "Stars of the Monkees" Friday, July 12 - on the eve of the $500,000 Virginia Derby.

horses and observe their progress. His favorable assessment of the track and subsequent positive experiences here in 2001 led to his becoming spokesperson for Thoroughbred racing in 2002. During his recent visit, Davy Jones expressed his hope that the public will see that there is much more to horseracing than gambling. "One of my main goals is to encourage families to enjoy an afternoon at the races. With today's busy lifestyle, families seem to spend less and less time together. A day here at Colonial Downs, or any track, for that matter, is a great family alternative. It's inexpensive, safe and fun."

An avid and able horseman, Jones rides both flat and jump races as an amateur rider as often as he can (but has not yet been seen in the saddle at Colonial Downs). He stabled one of his young turf-bred horses here last year and developed great respect for the facility, particularly the track surfaces. He was in attendance on August 4, when his jump horse Maternity Leave captured a steeplechase event at the New Kent oval. Jones has revealed plans to stable several horses here during the upcoming five-week Thoroughbred race meeting and will return to the track several times this season in addition to the concert appearance to visit his

Colonial Downs opens for live racing June 21st and continues a fiveweek meet through July 23rd. The track will operated every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 1pm and Monday and Tuesday at 40

Monkee Shines 4pm. The track will present special holiday cards on July 4th and 5th featuring a giant fireworks show after racing each night. For more information, please contact Colonial Downs at 804-966-7223 PHOTO CREDIT TERRY AIGNER

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Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s News Wednesday, September 25, 2002 The Pound Pier 96 San Francisco, CA Phone: 415 273 1169 Website: www.poundsf.com Tickets: $12

Sunday, Sept. 1, 2002 Greenbelt Labor Day Festival More info TBA On-line: www.greenbelt.com/ rec/ldf-fri.htm Thursday, Sept. 5, 2002 The Stephen Talkhouse 161 Main Street Amagansett, NY Phone: 631-267-3117 Online: www.stephentalkhouse.c om

Friday, September 27, 2002 The Boardwalk 9426 Greenback Lane Orangevale (Sacramento), CA 95662 Saturday, September 28, 2002 McNears Mystic Theatre 23 Petaluma Boulevard North Petaluma, CA 94952 Phone: 707 765 2121 Tickets: $10

Friday, Sept. 6, 2002 Historic Pattenburg House 512 Rt. 614 Pattenburg, NJ Phone: 908-735-2547 On-line: www.pattenburghouse.com Tickets: $20 advance/$25 door

Last summer, Peter made an appearance in a short independent film entitled "Mixed Signals", playing the role of a manager of a rock and roll band. (Imagine that?!) The film is now available for purchase on video; you can find information about it online at http://www.geocities.com/ evajf.geo/mixed.html

Saturday, Sept. 7, 2002 Yorktown Grange Fair Grange Fair Grounds Moseman Road Yorktown Heights, NY Phone: 914-962-3900 On-line: www.townlink.com/ yorktowngrange

We are very sad to report that since our last issue, Peter's mother, Virginia Hope (Straus) Thorkelson, has passed away from complications arising from a stroke she suffered in April. Our prayers and sympathies go to Peter and his family during this difficult time.

Sunday, Sept. 8, 2002 Ramapo Valley Brewery 122 Orange Avenue Suffern NY 10901 Phone: 845-369-7827 42

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mikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s News Nez's new album, "Rays", still looms large in the future as of this writing. In fact, Mike's other projects ("Fried Pies", and "The America Gene") seem to have been put on hold indefinitely while he puts all of his energy into his new music. There's still rumblings of a tour, but nothing has been set.

If you are online the best way to keep up to date on the guys is to visit their web sites:

www.davyjones.net www.mickydolenz.com www.petertork.com www.videoranch.com

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Mickyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s News Micky has some solo dates booked besides what's left of the Monkees tour with David: Wed 10/09/02 Miami, FL Royal Caribbean Cruises Thu 10/10/02 Miami, FL Royal Caribbean Cruises Fri 10/11/02 Miami, FL Royal Caribbean Cruises Sat 10/12/02 Miami, FL Royal Caribbean Cruises Sun 10/13/02 Miami, FL Royal Caribbean Cruises Mon 10/14/02 Miami, FL Royal Caribbean Cruises Tue 10/15/02 Miami, FL Royal Caribbean Cruises Wed 10/16/02 Miami, FL Royal Caribbean Cruises Mon 10/28/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Tue 10/29/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Wed 10/30/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Thu 10/31/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Fri 11/01/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Sat 11/02/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Sun 11/03/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Mon 11/04/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Tue 11/05/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Mon 11/25/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Tue 11/26/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Wed 11/27/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Thu 11/28/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Fri 11/29/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Sat 11/30/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Sun 12/01/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Mon 12/02/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas Tue 12/03/02 Miami, FL Enchantment Of The Seas

In the middle of all the insanity Micky is taking time to get married to Donna Quinter in September. Congratulations! 44

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Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s News The Monkees featuring Davy Jones & Micky Dolenz Friday, Augus 30th Las Vegas, NV Sam's Town Live Friday, Sept. 7 Philadelphia, PA Electric Factory Saturday, Sept. 8 Norwalk, CT Norwalk Oyster Festival Davy Jones in Concert Saturday, November 2nd Peoria, IL Civic Center Arena Davy is the also Official Spokesperson for Colonial Downs' 2002 Racing Season. Visit the Colonial Downs website for more information on their events. More information about Davyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s involvement can be found in the press release archives.

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http://www.angelfire.com/celeb2/jansfanpages/

Jan Beaudrie and David 46

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By Janet Literio

I heard some profound word at a concert in Bensenville, IL last Sept. “We all know the door to opportunity is marked push.” David said those words in relation to breaking into show business. I’ve kept that phrase in mind should I ever have an opportunity, not to break into show business, but to meet him again. Being the dedicated fan I am, I planned an evening at two upcoming concerts, May 31 and June 29, for my husband, brother, and friends. I was hoping that at one of those shows, the door for my hoped for opportunity would open. Perusing the Chicago paper a week before the show on May 31, I see a few lines that catch my eye. The lines say something like:

‘Monkee Davy Jones is in town promoting his new book and show on May 31. Behind the scenes, he’s negotiating to race his horses at Arlington Park this summer.’ No details were provided, just those lines. Remembering that famous line that is now the title of this story, I began gently pushing the door—made a few phone calls. The door would seemingly open on May 29 at a booksigning. I’ve never been to David’s booksigning before…. sounded like fun. After a near sleepless night, the alarm went off. I hear something about a contest on the radio to win tickets and a chance to meet the Monkees. The winner would have to supply the next line of a song. I felt rather confident that I’d know the 47

Monkee Shines words, but it WAS 6am after all. I then hear the beginning of ‘Valleri.’ I call, and get a busy signal. Remembering that now famous phrase, I hit redial. It rings, is answered, and I confidently supply the line we all know so well: ‘There’s a girl I know that makes me feel so good.” Next, I hear I’m a winner. I tell the DJ that I can’t believe I won…. I’m going to Davy Jones’ booksigning today, and winning with a ‘Davy’ song is unbelievable luck. In addition to the tickets are passes to a Meet & Greet. I planned on giving the free tix to my friend who recently lost his job, but my husband and I would keep the chance for the Meet & Greet.

platform where David would be signing. Out of the corner of my eye, I see someone come through the curtain. The door to my opportunity to meet David has just opened—goodness gracious, he’s standing there. David kindly signed my copy of his book againhe had signed it last summer when I met him. He graciously signed some other things as well. We were having a pleasant conversation as he tells me about a song that moved him greatly. The next thing I know, David is singing the song to me…. not to the people in line or the diners eating, but softly, sweetly to me. Since he was looking directly into my eyes as he sang, I’m sure he could tell how moved I was by this as I had to briefly look away a few times so he wouldn’t see the tears in my eyes. When he finished singing, neither of us spoke, even my husband was beyond words. Finding my

At the location for the booksigning, as the noon hour arrived, I was getting antsy: I realized the door to opportunity would open soon. The restaurant was kind enough to put us at a table at the foot of the 48

Monkee Shines voice, I thanked him, and told him that was the most beautiful song I have ever heard. David, if you read this, your singing to me is something I will ALWAYS remember. When I am old and in a nursing home, I will tell the other residents about that song. I hope you do record it…and I hope to buy a copy.

the joy his music has brought me throughout my life: a book about Racing for the Triple Crown. We chatted for quite a while. My husband shot some great photos. David was more than kind to pose with us, even moving my huge purse out of the way so it wouldn’t be centered in the picture. You know, often it’s the little things that people do that make the most impression….

One thought I had as we chatted was ‘history repeats itself’…this all happened days before my birthday, and when I was 10 or 11, the theme of my birthday party was ‘The Monkees.’ Who would have ever thought that 35 years later, David would sing a song to me around the time of my birthday????? Certainly, not I. Oh yes, I did give David a small gift to thank him for all

It was interesting just watching the whole event after we had our time. As all good things must come to an end, we left a little before 49

Monkee Shines the scheduled end time. I was thrilled beyond belief, that when the door to my opportunity to meet David again opened, it truly was a memory for life. When you meet a celebrity, you always wonder if they are really anything like the adjectives that are used to describe them. From my experience, David Jones seems to be exactly the man I’ve read that he is, and then some. Time now to think about the next door to opportunity opening, the concert.

EXCITING, and my personal favorite-AWESOME have all been used…..with a great degree of accuracy. The songs are magic. We all sing along, and we are there to see our favorite ‘Monkee.’ We all do have our favorites, and they never disappoint us. So, thank you guys…. after 35 years and counting, we, the fans, STILL love you. At this show, I had a new experience…going backstage. What a thrill that was, especially since I knew that most probably that now famous door would open again. Walking into the room, I will admit, was quite an experience. Wow, these people interact with each other the same way that we had been interacting with my friends before the show- joking with each other, keeping a close eye on the televised basketball game, having fun.

What can I say about a Monkees concert that hasn’t already been said? Adjectives like GREAT, FUN,

Monkee Shines It was quite the transition seeing them being ‘people’ after seeing them being entertainers. A few of the band members were kind enough to pose for a picture. Thank goodness for digital cameras…my friends were waiting for us at the bar, and they wanted proof that we did get to go backstage.

see ‘proof’ that their friends were backstage. They were truly happy for the opportunities that had come my way the last few days. As they said, those are birthday presents I’ll always remember. They were more amazed when they saw some of the band members and stars walk by them.

After several minutes, David walked through the door, and began to graciously greet the radio station winners. He was kind enough to chat with us again, sign some pictures from the booksigning Wed., and pose for another photo with me. His kindness prevailed once again as he asked Tom if the picture turned out all right…that’s the advantage of a digital camera. The winners were soon ushered out of the room.

Now, there was another opportunity that could have materialized had I forcefully pushed on the door. But, I do know the difference between gently pushing, and being bold and brazen. And, even if I lost out on a golden opportunity, I still know it’s always better

My friends were so anxious to 51

Monkee Shines to gently push, and the door to that missed opportunity may eventually open sometime. As I mentioned before, often it’s the smallest things that people do, or perhaps don’t do, that often make the biggest impression. We are anxiously awaiting June 29. By the way, my friend that lost his job, and used the free tickets, was also fortunate enough to ‘catch’ one of the drumsticks that were thrown into the photos in this article are courtesy of Janet Literio crowdAllafter the show. That truly lifted his spirits. Thank you.

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Thanks to Moor End C.P. School for trying Heinz Kids’ Ketchup! Those of you who know me, know I have worked for the HJ Heinz Company for 30 years. Heinz has caused quite a stir with their Kid’s Ketchup in funky colors. When we ran purple ketchup I could not resist sending some to David’s sister, Hazel Wilkinson, for her class to try. These photos are of Hazel and some of her little ones having a sample of the green and purple Kid’s Ketchup! No, purple wasn’t my idea but what a great color! 53

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