Monkee Shines
Monkee Shines A Sad Goodbye
Issue 66
Look who’s back!
Some Like It Hot, Some like It Luke Warm, And
Some Like It Shticky Or
Advance To St. Charles Place
The Geneva Convention—The Road Crew Takes Prisoners Great Moments in Monkees History Davy Jones Lights up Dark Skies in Geneva Me And You And A Camera Crew Pen Pals * E-Pals Hey Hey It’s A Monkee Midday At the Oasis Personals Peter News * Micky News * David News * Mike News And much much more….
Monkee Shines
Table of Contents
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, 903 East Second Street, 1A Muscatine, Iowa 52761.
Letter from Editor..................................... 3 Great Moments ......................................... 4 Some Like It Shticky................................ 9 Pen Pals ..................................................... 29 E-Pals ........................................................ 30 Davy Jones Lights Up Dark Skies .......... 31 Hey Hey It’s A Monkee ........................... 33 Me & You & A Camera Crew................. 35 The Geneva Convention .......................... 36 Midday At The Oasis ............................... 53 Monkees Board Game.............................. 54 Personal Ads ............................................. 55 Peter News ................................................ 56 Micky News .............................................. 57 David News .............................................. 58 Mike News ................................................ 59 Jerry Renino’s Obituary ........................... 60
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.
My sincerest thanks to all who made this issue possible: As always The PFG Road Crew – Bonnie Borgh, Kimmi Wright, Janet Litterio, and Colleen Johnson and their families, Diane Klosak, Dawn Hoffman, Alan Green, Peacepoint TV (especially Daniel and Patrick), Hazel and Robert Wilkinson and Peter, Micky, Mike, and David who give us more inspiration than they will ever know! And all of you who read our rantings and ravings too!
Monkee Shines is printed by Mailboxes & Parcel Depot pfg@machlink.com http://purpleflowergang.tripod.com/
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Monkee Shines
From the Editor! way too late and watching the opening of the Tonight Show. Jay was on the street showing people pictures of famous people and asking them if they knew who the famous person was. He stopped a young woman, a beautician I believe, and showed her a photo of The Beatles. She identified the Fab Four as either The Monkees or The Beach Boys ...even after Jay told her it was John, Paul, George, and Ringo! Am I that old or was she that blonde? Summer is just around the corner and there is lots of Monkeemania to be found. Get out there and have a great time. And, please let us know your Monkee business!
Dear Gang, Another mammoth issue of Monkee Shines. I try to keep it down to 40-48 pages but it seems the newsletter has a life of it’s own. This was just about ready to go to print in January when Bonnie and I chanced upon “some little out of the way place where nobody goes.” What transpired there HAD to be told. Again we hope you think it was worth waiting for. Sadly, we report the passing of Jerry Renino (see page 60 for the obituary). Jerry was a good friend of the Monkees and to Monkees fans. Seems Jerry was a member of the Monkees various incarnations for almost as long as the Monkees themselves. Our hearts go out to Jerry’s friends and family. The other night I was up
Cindy
Notice We have tried to stick to a regular schedule for the newsletter but something always gets in the way. We have a choice to throw something together or take a little longer and do something we can be proud of. We hope you think it is worth the wait. As always, if you are unhappy with your membership for any reason, we will be happy to refund the remainder of your membership dues upon request.
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Monkee Shines
Birthdays and other special events
January 1 1 3 4 5 5 5 7 7 8 8 8 9 9 9 10 11 13 13 14 15 15 16 17 17 19 19 21 22 23 24
The Monkees show premieres in England and Japan (1967) Bobbi Boyce Stephen Stills Michael Stipes The Monkees reunite at the Hard Rock Cafe in LA to receive five Platinum Records. Davy on the Tonight Show (1995) Henry Corden Davy Jones on The Farmer's Daughter on ABC (1966) Kenny Loggins "Fairy Tale" (1968) Ami Dolenz (1969) David (Jones) Bowie Jerry Yester (MFQ) (1943) "The Case of The Missing Monkee" (1967) Bill Cowsill More of The Monkees' album released (1967) Pat Smith Lester Sill Rip Taylor David Jones at Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Altoona, Iowa (1999) More of The Monkees receives Gold Record (1967) "Monkees Watch Their Feet" (1968) "I Was a Teenage Monster" (1967) NBC-TV buys "The Monkees" series (1966) Robyn Millan Phil Everly Janet Carbert DJB&H on "The Dinah Shore Show" (1976) "The Monsterous Monkee Mash" (1968) "Find The Monkees" (1967) Neil Diamond
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Monkee Shines 24 25 26 27 28 28 29 29 30 31
Lynda Moore Hallie Torkelson (1970) Vito Scotti David Jones at Moraine Valley College, Palos Hills, Illinois (2001) The Monkees first appearance on the cover of TV Guide (January 28February 3, 1967) David Jones in "Rock and Roll Pom Pom Show", Atlantic City, New Jersey (1994) "The Monkee's Paw" (1968) David Jones in "Rock and Roll Pom Pom Show", Atlantic City, New Jersey (1994) "Monkees in The Ring" (1967) Christian Nesmith (1964)
February 1 2 4 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 8 8 9 9 9 9 9 10 10 11 12 13 13 13 13 13 14 14 14
Don Everly Graham Nash Jonathan Nesmith (1968) The Monkees (as a Trio) on the Glen Campbell "Goodtime Hour" on CBS (1969) "The Devil and Peter Tork" (1968) David Jones at The Lady Luck Casino, Bettendorf, Iowa (1999) "The Prince & The Pauper" Rodney Bingenheimer appears as Davy's double (1967) John London Fabian Forte David Jones at The Lady Luck Casino, Bettendorf, Iowa (1999) David Jones in "Real Live Brady Bunch", Champaign, Illinois (1994) "Teardorp City" is released (1969) David Jones in "Real Live Brady Bunch", Charleston, Illinois (1994) Davy on "The Ed Sullivan Show" as the Artful Dodger from "Oliver!" The Beatles first U.S. appearance (1964) Deborah Stidham Carole King Barry Mann Jack Winter Davy on "Laugh-In" on NBC (1969) Beryl Leigh Gerry Goffin "Monkees Race Again" (1968) Peter Tork (1942) "Monkees at the Circus " (1967) Joe Perry David Jones "Evening With David Jones", Decatur, Illinois (1993) David Jones in "Real Live Brady Bunch", Holiday Star, Merrillville, Indiana (1994) Davy on "This Is Tom Jones" (1969) DJB&H on "Don Kirshner's Rock Concert." (1976) Rick Klein
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Monkee Shines 15 15 16 16 16 17 18 19 19 19 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 25 26 26 26 26 27 27 27
"Instant Replay" is released (1969) Michael Nesmith at Cubby Bear, Chicago, Illinois (1992) Linda Jones Sonny Bono Rhonda Russell Gene Pitney Bobby Hart (1939) "Monkees in Paris" (1968) "The Monkees" begin filming their first feature film "Changes," then called "Untitled," later retitled "Head" (1968) Lou Christie David Jones in "Real Live Brady Bunch", Mt. Pleasant, Michigan (1993) "Captain Crocodile" (1967) Bob Rafelson MTV Pleasant Valley Sunday Marathon airs 45 episodes (1986) The Monkees renewed for a second season (1967) Michael wins first time ever Grammy Award for Video of The Year for "Elephant Parts" (1982) George Harrison David Jones at Circa 21, Rock Island, Illinois (1991) Cyrus Faryar (MFQ) (1936) David Jones at The Ingersol, Des Moines, Iowa (1991) Johnny Cash "The Monkees Mind Their Manor" (1968) DJB&H on "The Mike Douglas Show" (1976) "Monkees a La Mode" (1967) David Jones at The Ingersol, Des Moines, Iowa (1991)
March 1 2 4 4 5 6 7
Roger Daltry John Cowsill "Some Like It Luke Warm" (1968) David Jones at Hickory Hollow Mall, Nashville, Tennessee (1989) David Jones, Decatur, Illinois (1994) "Alias Micky Dolenz" (1967) Peter Tork joins Micky Dolenz and Davy Jones on stage at The Starwood Club in Hollywood (1977) 7 Michael Nesmith's "Television Parts" premieres on NBC (1985) 7 Donna Loren 8 Micky Dolenz (1945) 8 "Little Bit Me, Little Bit You" released (1967) 8 Celi Cabot 9 Mark Lindsay 9 The Monkees top N.A.R.M. award winners in three categories: Best Selling Album, Best Selling Single, and Best Selling American Group (1967) 9 "Valleri" #3 (1968) 10 Dean Torrence 10 David Jones at Ameristar Casino, St. Charles, Missouri (2005)
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Monkee Shines 11 13 13 13 13 13 14 15 17 1724 18 20 22 23 25 25 25 26 26 27 30
"Monkees Blow Their Minds" (1968) DJB&H on "American Bandstand" (1976) "Little Bit Me, Little Bit You" receives Gold Record (1967) "Monkees Chow Mein" (1967) Neil Sedaka Carolyn Travis Arch Johnson Mike Love John Sebastian The Monkees tour England for the first time since July 2, 1967 (1989) A repeat of October 23, 1967 "Hillbilly Honeymoon" "Monkee Mother" The Monkees (as a Trio) on Happening '69 (1969) Bruce Kessler "Little Bit Me, Little Bit You" #2 (1967) "Mijacogeo (The Frodis Caper)" The second and final season ends (1968) Elton John Diana Ross David Jones, Suffern, New York (1994) "Monkees on The Line" (1967) Eric Clapton
April 1 3 3 3 3 5 5 6 6 6 9 9 10 10 11 12 12 12 12 13 13 14
David Jones in "Real Live Brady Bunch", Chicago, Illinois (1994) "Monkees Get Out More Dirt' (1967) Jan Berry Jeff Barry Jan Chilton Micky's second album "Broadway Micky" released on Kid Rhino (1994) Coco Hinzelmann Micky appears on "My Three Sons" (1972) Phil Leeds Michelle Phillips Carl Perkins Julie Harris "Monkees in Manhattan" (1967) David Jones at Municipal Auditorium, Nashville, Tennessee (1992) David Jones at Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis, Tennessee (1992) First Tork-less concert in Charleston, West Virginia to capacity crowd of 6000. The Monkees backed by Sam and The Goodtimers David Cassidy Tiny Tim David Jones at Hirsch Coliseum, Shreveport, Louisiana (1992) David Jones at St. Louis Arena, St. Louis, Missouri (1992) Diane (Hildebrand) Roland Skye One-hour special "33 1/3 Revolutions Per Monkee" airs on NBC on Monday night (1969)
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Monkee Shines 14 14 15 16 17 17 18 19 20 22 22 24 24 26 26 26 29 30
Shorty Rogers David Jones at Municipal Auditorium, Kansas City, Missouri (1992) "The Girl I Knew Somewhere" #39 David Jones in "Real Live Brady Bunch", Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania (1994) "Monkees in The Movies" (1967) Don Kirshner Alex Singer Mark Volman Monte Landis Jack Nicholson Glen Campbell "Monkees on Tour" First season ends (1967) Last show of the U.K. tour at Reading where they receive a Gold Disc on stage for their "Hey Hey! The Monkees Greatest Hits" LP and CD (1989) "Someday Man" b/w "Listen To The Band" released Donna Lee Bascalla Bobby Rydell Tommy James Bobby Vee
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Monkee Shines
`Some Like It Hot Some Like It Lukewarm and
Some Like It Shticky (Alternate title “Advance To St. Charles Place’) By: Bonnie Borgh With A Little Help From My Friends: Cindy Bryant, Dawn Hoffman, and Janet Litterio
The sun did shine. There were no clouds in the way. So we got in the car On that January day.
We looked! Then we saw him walk right to our chairs! We looked! And we saw him! It wasn't "Jones" from the Chicago Bears And he performed for us Oh the theatrics he shares!
I drove there with Cindy. We drove there, we two. And I was thinking "We should plagiarize Seuss, too!"
A few of us were hungry; But we had a late lunch. But we could go For some tea, soda, or "punch".
We put on some music Drank some decaffeinated brew The drive passed quickly As they always do.
The hostess sat us down Right next to the table Where the entourage sat We couldn't eat even if we were able!
Then all we could do was to Wait! Wait! Wait! Wait! How were we to know We would be a cheap date.
There was so much to say There was so much to see We couldn't believe Time went so quickly.
And then Someone walked in! How that man made us grin!
Then the waiter came by With an announcement to make 9
Monkee Shines the trip to IL to see David, I’m sure glad she/you changed your mind and ventured back across the Mississippi.
Why did we order a beverage Instead of a steak? But for the record And throughout history We'll henceforth be known As Cheap Dates 1, 2, and 3!
Cindy: I am getting older. I no longer like the idea of driving long distances in winter with uncertain weather but Bonnie talked me into it. She twisted my arm! It’s true!!!!!!
Who writes that stuff? It all happened in some little out of the way place that nobody goes…
Bonnie: (I was a Brownie SLASH Girl Scout; I cannot tell a lie. However, I think she’s speaking figuratively.) Janet and Tom had also ordered tickets and planned to meet us there.
Bonnie: Cindy and I had discussed attending David's concert appearance on Saturday, January 20, 2007 in Lincolnshire, Illinois. However, uncertainty in seat location and unforeseeable winter weather conditions caused us to forgo the possibility. It was about mid December when a new and improved booking appeared in St. Charles, Illinois (which we were familiar with as the neighboring city to Geneva, Illinois where we saw David perform September 30, 2006). We were able to secure front row (side aisle) seats at the Arcada Theatre and nearby (within walking distance) accommodations at the Hotel Baker. Speaking in "Monkeeopoly" terms, we were going to "Advance to St. Charles Place" on Friday, January 19, 2007!
Janet: You betcha….this was not the first time David had a double-header in Chicagoland. The last time was in October of 2005, when David and The DJB performed at our show in Lockport on Saturday-Sweetest Day, then performed in Crystal Lake on Sunday. For reasons which I will not disclose here, we did not attend the Crystal Lake show then, but when I saw an upcoming weekend of All Jones, All The Time….we were not going to let an opportunity like this pass us by….we were IN!!!! We ordered our tickets as soon as I saw the St. Charles show listed. Bonnie: Original PFG member, Dawn (Van Meter) Hoffman decided "She" would join us, too! Dawn said she was starting a new record in seeing David twice in less than four months; she and her daughter, Emily, ganged up with us in Geneva. Conversely, I
Janet: I could not believe my eyes when I saw the St. Charles show appear on David’s tour schedule—sometime mid December. When I emailed with Cindy asking if you would make 10
Monkee Shines joining them. So much entertainment awaited me. . .
was setting a record as well with a dramatic decline in Monkee business. As I told David way back in 1999, "It's nothing personal; just (diaper) 'Changes'."
Cindy: I love it when a plan comes together! Bonnie: As a Christmas gift, Cindy had graciously given Craig and Hannah a gift certificate to Texas Roadhouse (one of Hannah's favorite restaurants) and a gift certificate to the Showcase Cinemas for them to use for their "Dad-Daughter Date Night" when Cindy and I traveled to St. Charles.
Cindy: Dawn was one of the original 7 PFG members. She was only 16 when I was hauling her all over the Midwest to see The Monkees. Now my other “little girl” is all grown up with kids of her own! Dawn: Unfortunately, my attendance has been poor these last 16 years or so. Lots of CHANGES in my life. I have been back in touch with friends, but haven’t been able to take a Typical Monkey Romp for a while. Last September it was awesome to introduce Davy’s show to my 7 year old, who now LOVES the Monkees, like mother like daughter I guess. And to be able to go again so soon seemed unbelievable. Not something I would typically do or be able to do these days. Extra time working an early morning second job left me with a bit of extra cash that I finally decided to use on myself. I went online and purchased the last front row ticket. Hooray. And as it turns out was only 3 seats away from the two seats that Bonnie and Cindy had purchased. Now I have to say normally I would struggle with doubt – should I have spent that money, or shouldn’t I? This time I didn’t waiver. I knew it was the thing to do. I got a hold of the girls and told them I would be
Cindy: It was a bribe to make myself feel better for stealing Mommy! Bonnie: Beg, steal, or borrow? I like “borrow” better. Anyway, several days before the concert, Janet heard a special radio announcement from the venue planned in David's behalf. It was mentioned that following David's concert they were going to show a big-screen clip of "Some Like It Lukewarm" (Monkees' episode #56) featuring guest star, Deana Martin (Dean Martin's daughter). Then as a "surprise", they were going to invite Deana Martin out on stage. What a great bit of theater! Cindy: Yeah…surprise…. Janet: Actually, Dick Biondi was interviewing Ron Onesti, the theater/entertainment company owner/manager on the Chicago airwaves. 11
Monkee Shines Bonnie: Excuse me, Janet. What is “/”? Whatever happened to “SLASH”?
open as Cindy planned to arrive in Bettendorf between 0830 and 0900. I quickly returned home from transporting Hannah to school. Aside from some strange looks from the neighbors, Cindy had already parked her car safely in our garage.
Cindy: What DID happen to SLASH? :-) Janet: (As she was saying) Before the interview, Dick Biondi told us out here in listener-land that some surprises were scheduled during David’s show, and he was going to see if he could tell us listeners of such surprises. A bit later, Dick said that HE couldn’t spill the beans, but he had someone on the phone that could……Ron Onesti. Ron went on to say what a GREAT show was in the works…..and added that his entertainment company also represents Deana Martin, and that during Davy’s first encore, they were going to show a clip of David and Deana together from when we all were “young and younger”…and then would bring Deana out to surprise Davy.
Cindy: Again, impeccable timing as I barely pulled up when Bonnie returned from dropping Hannah at school. Bonnie: At 0903 Cindy and I departed for our much anticipated opportunity to "Advance To St. Charles Place". We stopped to refuel (car and body) at a Shell station in DeKalb, and we were back on the road again. In keeping with our proposed schedule, we arrived in St. Charles by 1200 hours. We found the hotel and theatre without incident. A few moments were spent in an attempt to secure a parking space. After a little patience and impeccable timing, we located "Free Parking" on Main Street near the bridge over the Fox River approximately half way between the hotel and the theatre.
Bonnie: Cool! (Or should I say Pool It?) My relentless 0505 alarm rang faithfully on the morning of Friday, January 19. I was in the pool at the Bettendorf Fitness Center by 0530. (I have the whole routine down to a science.) Seventy-two laps later, I hurried home. Craig normally leaves at 0730 for work. More challenging than swimming a mile five mornings a week, is awaking Sleeping Beauty. Getting Hannah out the door by 0811 allows us enough time for her to be in her second grade class at 0830. I thought it best to leave our garage door
Cindy: Things were going way too smoothly! Bonnie: Official check-in time was 1600 hours, but fortunately, our room was ready upon our arrival. Cindy: See?! Bonnie: We proceeded to Room 409. I phoned my Mom and hus12
Monkee Shines band to let them know Cindy and I arrived in tact. We also decided to phone the theatre to see if it would be alright to drop off a little parcel for David. The woman I spoke with there said it would be fine; she said the doors should be open. However, she would phone "Rich" just in case. Cindy and I bundled up, and we walked over to the theatre. The historic (vaudeville) theatre was built in 1926.
was a little fishy. I could have done without the anchovy which served as a garnish on the top. Cindy: Just for the record and Hazel, I had a delicious open face grilled chicken sandwich. Bonnie: Janet called whilst Cindy and I were there. We decided it best if she and Tom met us at the hotel. She anticipated they would be arriving sometime around 1630 hours. She asked if we had seen "any movie stars". I said, "No." She said, "No?" I said, "No…no swimming pools, either." She said, "No?" I said, "No."
Janet: It was a beautiful theater……although I’d vote for more bathrooms for the girls. Bonnie: I have faced that scene before! The theatre actually reminded me a lot of Circa 21. The doors were open, and we were able to successfully drop off our goods from the hoods for David. Since it was after 1300 hours, we decided to have lunch at the restaurant in the hotel. We had a great view from our table of the slightly frozen Fox River. We enjoyed watching a little rubber ball bobbing up and down caught in the current under the makeshift waterfall. Sometimes simple pleasures are quite fulfilling.
Cindy: And just as well it is hard to have a “little snack” whilst in the presence of greatness. Swallowing becomes a major task…but then so does remembering to chew! Janet: Believe it or not, I can say more than “no.” Who needs swimming pools when you’re that close to the Fox River? Actually, when I called Bonnie and Cindy, we finally had our game plan down. As always, things fall on the same day. That morning, we had to take a drive to Downtown Chicago for a college visit with our youngest son-all boy-David. The track/discus coach at the University wanted to talk with him/us about the possibility of David throwing discus for the track team at the U…providing he is admitted and chooses to attend the school. I called you both when we got back from that so-
Cindy: The morning sun is shining like a red rubber ball! Oh wait! Imagine that! Wrong group! Bonnie: That song takes me back to yester decade SLASH century, Girl! Seriously, it was great to have a (although a bit delayed) relaxing lunch. The coffee was wonderful. I enjoyed a Caesar salad, but something 13
Monkee Shines Janet: It’s all in the timing…………..We were delayed a bit in leaving home. I was scheduled to have knee surgery the Wednesday after the big weekend. Just as we were about to leave home for the trip to St. Charles, the surgical center called and needed some information. Hmmm…..discussing medical info….going to see David……we do have our priorities, however I thought it might be nice to wake up after the surgery, so I thought it best take the time and give them the necessary information. We got out of the house in short order…arrived at our destination….had a bit of trouble finding a place to park that wasn’t under a 90 minute limit.
journ and had our game plan down for the rest of the day. Dawn: Where are you guys?? Knock, knock, knock. I did just talk to them. Hellooooooo???? Cindy: In the lobby! Bonnie: It was about 1415 when we finished lunch. Actually, I think the restaurant finished lunch fifteen minutes before we did. Cindy and I decided to visit the ladies' room near the lobby. My cell phone rang; it was Dawn. She said, "Where are you?" I said, "…in the bathroom!" No doubt she was thinking, 'Then why isn't Cindy answering the door!' I explained to her we stopped in the ladies' room on the main floor near the lobby. Meanwhile, she was on the fourth floor knocking at our door. She had an unfortunate change in schedule plans as Harry's (her husband's) grandmother passed away earlier that week. They had a memorial service for her Friday morning, and she was able to arrange childcare with her husband earlier than she had originally planned. Cindy and I returned to our room to greet Dawn. We chatted (as women do) and then agreed it was time for a costume change. We had places to go, things to do, and people to see!
Bonnie: You had to get there early for “FREE PARKING”, I think. Janet: FINALLY….we get out of the car….I hobble over to the hotel with Tom to meet you…….and……….. Cindy: WHO??????? Bonnie: We found three comfortable chairs (Does this sound like the beginning of “Goldilocks and The Three Bears”?) arranged in a semi circle in the lobby and sat down. We were there all of five or ten minutes when I noticed an almost breathless expression on Cindy's face. It was then I saw the procession she had just witnessed. Startled, I said, "David…(pause)…Jones!" I
By 1630, Cindy, Dawn, and I thought we would go down to the lobby to wait for Tom and Janet to arrive. 14
Monkee Shines am sure Cindy and Dawn spoke as well, but I honestly could not hear a thing when that drum started pounding.
forgot who he said the other one’s name was] being played by two men complete with fish-net stockings and the whole nine yards. [I thought that was a family show!] David said he wore a red bell-hop sort of costume, and his character's name was "Buttons" (no doubt because I am sure he looked as cute as a button.)
Cindy: When what to my wandering eyes should appear? Oh wait…now that’s the wrong story!……Bonnie…Bonnie….Bonnie !!!!!! We’re not in Kansas anymore! The Wizard just walked into the lobby!
Cindy: He said Cinderella told him she did not know how to dance and asked him to teach her. In very animated fashion David/Buttons said, “You put your hands here and here and I put my hands here and here, then we put our cheeks together like this (with a moony little smile) and……WHY DANCE!?”
Bonnie: David waved as he walked towards the center of the lobby. He stood by the coffee table and said to us, "You're all dolled up…" Then he asked, "Are you staying here?" Our reply was, "Yes…" He said he had been in the bar the night before, and he started to tell us he had just finished working in a play down in Florida.
Bonnie: He shared with us his animated dialogue with Cinderella and her fond affection for the Prince. I said, "You mean she wasn't in love with you?" With a protruding lip, he said, "No…"
Cindy: Excuse me….David could you slow down please? You’re going 95 and my brain is a 25 mile an hour zone! And, Bonnie could you check Dawn's pulse…I don’t think she’s breathing! I’ve never seen anyone’s eyes get that big before!
Cindy: Actually it went something like this……it went exactly like this! Cinderella: I’m in love! Buttons eye brows raised: Really! Cinderella: He’s handsome! Button’s head held a little higher. Cinderella: He’s strong! Buttons sticks out chest in a muscle man pose. Cinderella: And tall! Buttons slumps with lip in a pout!
Bonnie: I said, "Cinderella, right?" He said, "Yeah, Cinderella…" You could just see the lights go on, and he was in his element. He performed all the "shtick" he did throughout the play for us. Of course, we were totally captive; David was completely dramatic. He talked about the "Prince" actually being played by a woman and about the two evil stepsisters [Godzilla and I
Dawn: We three sighed in a “aw poor Davy sort of way” and he lit up and said – “yes like that”. Cindy: Meaning that‘s how the 15
Monkee Shines kids in the audience had responded.
my….and saw David standing there chatting with the girls. Now…being as though I had been on painkillers since before Christmas, I thought my vision of David was perhaps a hallucination—kind of like an oasis in the Sahara---maybe it really wasn’t David standing there…….so I turned to Tom and asked him “do you see David standing there?” Yep….it’s him. Whew…..I wasn’t hallucinating from the medication…..it really WAS Mr. Jones. That explains why my knee was much worse than the surgeon expected…it was from the knocking when we spotted David J.
Dawn: - and something about loving the audience reactions – Bonnie, wish I could help you with the second step-sister's name, but it escapes me too. Cindy: Hey I can only process so much at a time and my head was spinning as it was…..I thought it was another monster name. Bonnie: Deb Robicheau came by and said something about, "What…are you doing twenty minutes?" Her commentary seemed to go well over the top so she picked up the belongings David had placed on the coffee table. Undeterred, David continued with his theatrics. Speaking in football terms, he was in the zone. About this time, Tom and Janet walked in.
Bonnie: David saw them. He paused to shake Tom's hand and then shake Janet's hand and gave her a kiss. Janet: Heaven…I’m in heaven! I KNEW that wasn’t a hallucination………. After we greeted David, I mentioned briefly that I enjoyed his interview with Dick Biondi the evening before, although I tuned in at the very end of the interview. Thursday evening, I had just gone upstairs with my pillows, ice pack, and a “no sew” blanket project I was working on….have to be productive when you can’t do much else but elevate and ice. I turned on my clock radio then, and heard David’s voice coming through. I was very surprised to hear him on the airwaves, so I sat down, iced, elevated, worked on my blanket, and listened in. Dick Biondi mentioned that he had met David back in the 90’s..I think that’s the
Cindy: Janet…you were there? Sorry when you get that close to the sun you get “blinded by the light!” I know, I know….wrong group! Janet: …..we finally get to the hotel’s entryway. Walking up to open the door, I see Cindy, Bonnie and Dawn sitting in the lobby. I thought you probably wondered where we were since we had been detained, and decided to wait for us in the lobby. GREAT…we can greet, eat, and beat feet in short order. I opened the door, proceeded to hobble over the entryway…looked up…goodness gracious, me oh 16
Monkee Shines timeframe….I believe in New York, backstage at a concert. He said he remembered Annabel asking her Dad to sign some styrofoam cups and selling them at that show. They reminisced about that a bit. “Dad” proudly mentioned that Annabel is becoming quite an artist in her own rite at the age of 18. It’s nice to hear David talking about his daughters—all girls. I think people tend to forget that in addition to being “Davy”, David is a parent, and just like every parent, is proud of their children. Dick Biondi then summed it up with a statement that I feel is SO apropos. Dick ended the interview by saying “David Jones is one hell of a man.” He then played a song that he felt summed up what we all feel about David…”You Make Me So Very Happy.” Say it with me “AAWWWHHHHHH”……… I don’t think any of us could have said it better ourselves!!!!!!! As we stood there in the lobby on Friday evening, trying to listen in to what David was saying….I just LOVE to hear his stories…….the band members were all coming downstairs to eat dinner. Most of them remembered us from hosting our Lockport shows, and seeing us along the way on the road, so they stopped to greet and chat with us…two of whom we had not seen in a few years. I thought that was very thoughtful of each of them to stop and chat. However, we got so wrapped up in talking with them, we weren’t able to hear David’s stories……..just as we stood there hoping/wanting to tune into David…the elevator bell
rang, and someone else came up to chat with us. It truly felt like old home week! It was so nice to see everyone, and I was so happy to see and chat with Deb again! I’m glad to read Bonnie’s commentary here in this story to hear what Mr. Jones had to say…….. Dawn: Intermission ended. The lights came back up and on and on and on our personal performance of Cinderelly went on until there were pangs of hunger across the room. Bonnie: He went right back to his regularly scheduled program. Deb came back sometime later and apologized. She said she was really hungry. We said, "No problem!" I think she realized there was no use in stopping David when he had an attentive audience. David talked about numerous things including the prospects of an "Ultimate Teen Idols Tour with David Cassidy". I said we (Craig, Hannah, and I) had seen him (David Jones) perform at the Taste of Minnesota (July 2, 2006), and we had seen David Cassidy perform there two days later (July 4, 2006). I said, "He wasn't half bad." David seemed interested to hear that and agreed. However, he said he needed a little something; I don't recall his exact verbiage. David went on to say how he enjoyed performing in "Cinderella" for the children in the theatre. He explained how he would go down 17
Monkee Shines into the audience and do some "shtick". He said he enjoyed doing that. He continued that normally he does not do that in his shows, but then he confirmed his thoughts with a hand gesture towards Cindy. He said, "I'll get down and do some of that 'shtick' with you tonight."
about whether or not to dine in the hotel restaurant, but we thought that's probably where we would have chosen even if The Davy Jones wasn't there. The problem was, however, that Cindy and I really were not hungry because we had eaten a late lunch. Conversely, Dawn was hungry. She said the memorial service luncheon was rather on the light side. Tom and Janet were also ready to eat a nice dinner.
Cindy: I swear I thought he said “for you.” Especially after we had all agreed that we loved watching him interact with the audience. I had also told him that one of my favorite memories of him was watching the rehearsals for Oliver in Kansas City several years back. We were lucky enough to spend two lovely afternoons watching rehearsals in that beautiful outdoor theatre. It was interesting to watch them working through the blocking and David spent forever trying to throw handkerchiefs onto a clothes line so they would land just right. He seemed surprised by that.
Janet: We had already had a very busy day, with no time to eat….so we needed a bit of “preshow energy.” Dawn: Yeah, me too. No Time, No time at all. My tummy was rumbly. Cindy: So that’s what that noise was? I thought the natives seemed awfully restless that afternoon in the lobby. (Baby, baby, can’t you hear our hearts beat!)
Bonnie: Finally, Deb appeared again signaling it was really time to eat dinner. Cindy said, "David…Go eat dinner!"
Bonnie: We slowly walked up the steps to the restaurant and waited for what seemed like a lengthy time for the hostess to seat us. I thought with only five in our party, 'How difficult can this be?'
Cindy: Did I actually tell David to LEAVE?! Bonnie: Yes, but in the nicest possible way, of course. David said "Goodbye" and went into the restaurant to join the others already in progress. We all took a big deep breath, tried to regain our composure, and said, "Alright…Where are we going to go for dinner?" We debated
Dawn: Considering the restaurant was basically empty. Cindy: Not completely! Bonnie: Finally, a table was prepared for us, and we followed the 18
Monkee Shines hostess throughout the restaurant. Where do you think was the chosen site? Of course, she seated us at a round table right next to an elongated cafeteriastyle table with the entire group of Camp Jones assembled. David, of course, was seated at the head of the table. We all sighed thinking, 'Oh this is just swell. He's going to think we chose this table on purpose.'
still comfortably full from our late lunch, Cindy ordered an ice tea for $2.75 (free refills), and I ordered a Sprite for $2.50 (free refills). Dawn ordered a glass of water (no charge) and a Waterfront salad for $6.00. Tom and Janet each ordered a "lemonade" in addition to a dinner entree. Did anyone catch the "Special of the Day"? (It was probably that little anchovy from my Caesar salad.) Needless to say, the ambience of the restaurant was unequivocal. We tried to mind our own business.
Janet: I do seem to have recall that we talked about requesting to be seated away from the Jones party. When we did sit down, at that stage of the game, I think we all wanted to crawl under the table. Rather than make a scene and move, we just tried to be as unassuming as possible— hoping that David wouldn’t see us sitting there.
Cindy: There is always a lot to talk about when we get together…not just Monkees. Bonnie and I see each other often though not often enough. Our battle cry remains, “Weekend minutes!” But for all of us to get together … that’s something very special. Somehow the Field Of Dreams in Dyersville, Iowa came up. Bonnie and I had done security for one of their celebrity games a few years ago and were quite happy to tell Tom about the baseball stars who attended. Which Gibson was that Bonnie?
Bonnie: Not a chance. Dawn: I was just hungry, pass the bread, I am sure Jonesy understands. Bonnie: Now, let me take you back to yester year (yester century actually). I remember when members of our Gang would tip the maitre d' for a front row table at the shows The Monkees performed at Harrah's in Lake Tahoe in September of 1987. That Was Then, This Is Now. We did no such thing.
Bonnie: Let me take you back to 1992! It was a tough job, but somebody had to do it! It was either Bob or Mel. When Craig found out (years later) what “famous” baseball players were there, he was at a loss for why I didn’t ask for any of their autographs.
Cindy: I was still trying to process this whole afternoon. . .
Cindy: We had also eaten dinner with Kelsey Grammar and
Bonnie: Since Cindy and I were 19
Monkee Shines Meatloaf after that game and had stories to tell.
Bonnie: I’ve seen that face…
Bonnie: I didn’t ask for their autographs, either. I guess after you’ve met “The Davy Jones” no one else compares...
As I was saying, we were trying to mind our own business, although at times, I must confess, my eyes wandered. A tall, thin, silver-haired man approached "the table". He put his hands on the back of one of the chairs and talked for a moment. I thought he looked very sort of like a producer with the theatre. After a while, he returned to his table. A short (no pun intended) time later, David got up and walked all the way across the restaurant and joined that man who was eating dinner with a woman. It was not exactly a very "secluded booth". All of a sudden, I noticed Cindy whisper something to Dawn. It appeared to be something of particular interest, but it also seemed not the time to ask questions.
Dawn: I had thought about a “lemonade”, but decided I would just be loopier than normal with only eating the $6.00 salad. Turns out the bread basket was full ‘o yummy bread. Hey, let’s order seconds. . . Cindy: good!
Hey the bread WAS
Bonnie: “Bread” was there, too? Janet: We DID mind our own business!! We had a very lovely toast—with/to each other—to friendship! We should have had a toast in honor of David….had it not been for him, we probably never would have met each other.
Cindy: In a brief moment of clarity I had seen David stand up, turn his back to us and say something to the waiter, motioning to our table. Because I had been hallucinating all afternoon I had to tell someone and Dawn was, discreetly, the closest.
Cindy: To friendship! Dawn and I had met 20 years and 2 days to the day. We met Bonnie 6 months later and Tom and Janet 15 years later. It is always amazing to me how we manage to connect from all over the states. Thanks David!
Bonnie: A few moments later, a waiter approached our table with a special announcement. He told us that our dinner was complements of "Mr. Jones" and we were to order whatever we wished. Momentarily, we were speechless. A few minutes later, David approached our table. Through semi-clenched teeth, he
Dawn: We did have a toast, but the bread was really, really good. Cindy: Toast? I know Toast. Backup band for David Jones in the 70s featuring some guy named Alan Green! 20
Monkee Shines said, "He wasn't supposed to say anything…" David made it clear that he wanted to buy our dinner. We all chimed "Thank You!" but also added our sentiments that it was not necessary. I blurted, "We're just glad to see you." He quickly responded back, "I'm glad to see you, too, but you all do so much for me…" With a wave of his hand, I thought he seemingly tried to nip any emotional thoughts. And then, Elvis left the building.
and ask if you wanted to share my Sprite. Dawn: Dessert seemed like a good idea, but time was not on our side! (Imagine that, wrong group!) Cindy: See it’s contagious! Bonnie: By this time (Does anybody really know what time it is?), Cindy: ...sigh…..
Dawn: Eh, what was that – shoulda’ ordered the steak. lol, just kidding – what an awesome moment. I was thrilled and very thankful as this was an extravagant outing for me these days. 20 years later who’d have guessed! And the bread was SO good!
Bonnie: ... we decided to make last-minute preparations to depart for the concert. We wanted to stop back at our room, gather our cameras, etc. and walk over to the theatre. It was only a two block walk, but the outside temperature was rather bitter.
Janet: There have only been a few times in my life where I have been left speechless….most of those times include being in David’s company. Talk about going above and beyond…..I don’t think David will ever realize just what he has done for US. Saying a mere “Thank you, David” can’t even begin to cover it. But…Thank you, again—and we are ALWAYS glad to see you! I don’t think dinner ever tasted quite as good….I had a lunch a few years ago that was every bit as good….but what a lovely dinner!!!!! I offered to share my soup, but I had no takers.
Cindy: And some of us are a little gimpy these days! Bonnie: Once we were inside the theatre, however, it was hot! Our seat locations were unbelievable. We could not have been any closer to the stage. In fact, there was barely enough room for a person to pass through where Cindy and I were seated. The stage, however, was probably about four feet high. Can you imagine getting a crimp in your neck from looking up at David all night? It was undoubtedly a tough job, but somebody had to do it! Dawn suggested I might use a booster seat, but I thought perhaps using my coat as a lift would suffice.
Bonnie: You did, Girl, and I didn’t even return the same courtesy 21
Monkee Shines named the Coyotees (clever spelling) opened for David. Imagine that; wrong group! They performed a variety of songs including: Back In The USSR, No Matter What, Sunshine of Your Love, I Saw Her Standing There, All Day/All Night, Fire Eyes, Lady Madonna, Junior's Farm, Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight.
Would you like to have a boyfriend?
Dawn: We want Davy, We want Davy. . . . .
Cindy: Any closer and we would have needed a fistful of dollar bills!
Cindy: They were good …but… say it with me kids…they’re no Davy Jones!
Bonnie: But, we weren't there to see Clint Eastwood!
Janet: Actually, the intro band was pretty ok. We’ve seen intro bands that should have never left the garage.
Cindy: Ah ...Bonnie… that’s ….ahem ...not what I meant! Dawn: The kids love those booster seats at the movies. They even hold your cup! My seat was only three doors down, last seat on the end in the front row, but actually very perfect, no nose hairs in my view, but butts later on. . . huh – wait and see.
Bonnie: They say patience is a virtue. A brief tribute to disc jockey Dick Biondi followed. He had a noteworthy quote which his father had said to him, "Go chase your dream." David finally appeared on stage at 9:25 pm wearing a long sleeve black shirt and black pants.
Janet: We could see right up his nose. Being a tad…well let me just say that my new name at work is VC, no, not Viet Cong– vertically challenged—I’m used to looking up at most people…David included. Our seats were great…..can’t get much better than front and center.
Cindy: Dick Biondi was there? Bonnie: I’m with Dawn…”We want Davy! We want Davy!” The songs were:
performed
Listen To The Band (intro) I'm A Believer Look Out Here Comes Tomorrow Valleri What Am I Doing Hangin'
Cindy: Front and to the right wasn’t bad either! Bonnie:
David
An introductory band 22
Monkee Shines a straight face. David said, "Oh really? Where abouts in Iowa?" She said, "Muscatine," and almost before she said that David interjected, "Muscatine?! My brother's working there tonight; He's a burglar!" Laughter followed and again, trying to keep some decorum he said, "Ya better git home quick!" We loved his "shtick", and it was so tempting not to add some "shtick" of our own!
Round? It's Nice To Be With You The Girl I Knew Somewhere Bonnie: David was right in the middle of his monologue when he suddenly noticed a woman (a few rows back) getting up to leave. Then he stopped and said, "Excuse me…Hello…I'm bloody talking here…Where are you going? Excuse me…Is there smoking or what? Come here! Come here! Ooooh! Ooooh! Ooooh! Ooooh!" David jumped off the stage in her pursuit. Relentless he continued, "Where you going? Where you going? Come here! Get back in your seat, okay? I'm telling you! Get back in your seat right now. Alright? Stop messing about, alright! What you wanna…Okay, go on then, it's alright; I didn't realize that was what you wanted" It was hilarious! I thought he would use the stairs (which were almost blocked by the speakers) and return to the stage. However, he leaped back up onto the stage as if he were mounting a horse.
Cindy: I think we were having a little contest. We were eye to eye and David had this little smirk on his face. I grinned back not breaking eye contact. Who would crack up first? It was a tie! There was also a cute little girl who walked up to the stage with flowers. She didn’t wait for David, just laid them on the stage, obviously it wasn’t her idea to give
Cindy: My knees still hurt and I was just watching. Bonnie: Then he said, "Someone grabbed my leg! Was that you?" and he looked directly at Cindy. Of course, Cindy didn't grab his leg! She held out her hands as if to say, 'It wasn't me!' Then David shtuck the microphone in front of Cindy and said, "Where are you from?" Cindy said, "Iowa". You could just see David had all he could do to keep
David and Deana Martin hadn’t seen each other in 40 years! Photo by Bonnie Borgh
23
Monkee Shines him flowers. I think mom may have been behind it. David walked over and said, "Hello, sweetheart! How old are you?” She told him it was her birthday and the audience appropriately oohed and ahhed. David wished her a happy birthday. He asked her if she had a boyfriend to which she quickly and heartily said, “NO!” David grinned and rolled his eyes, ”Would you like one?” Without hesitation she replied, “NO!” The audience roared! Bonnie: David continued his show with the following:
had a very special grand finale. Dawn: This is where the butts come in to view. Cindy: Butt Dawn, I don’t understand! Bonnie: The owner of the Arcada Theatre came on stage and prepared to show David a clip of "Some Like It Lukewarm" when he was with (Daphne) Deana Martin in "some little out of the way place that nobody goes." The segment showed stars in David's and Deana's eyes, and then the owner of the Arcada asked David if he remembered who that was. David said, "Hey…Are you kidding me? Of course I remember…Well, it was a friend of mine, and her Dad was pretty famous, and she's pretty good and nice, and her name was Deana Martin". Then Deana Martin was invited on stage. She sang, "Everybody Loves Somebody" to David. In turn, David sang "Secret Love" to her. It was a great bit of theatre!
Wasted Days and Wasted Nights I Love You Like I Love New York City Let Them Be Little Consider Yourself from Oliver! A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You She Hangs Out Girl Bright Side of the Road I Wanna Be Free I'll Love You Forever Papa Jean's Blues The Greatest Story Ever Told (Free) (I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone Daydream Believer
Dawn: I had walked up to stage (was it left?) at this time to see the goings on and get a little bit closer. Anyway the owner of the Arcada walked David over to that side to view his video surprise. Facing his butt due--me! Anyway he says ”sorry about the butts”, I said, “not a problem”, not a problem at all and proceeded to take the two
Bonnie: Daydream Believer has become such a bittersweet song. It is such a nostalgic (almost patriotic) Monkees' song, and I feel like I should put my hand over my heart or something. However, it also signifies the conclusion of the concert. However, this concert 24
Monkee Shines best pictures I took all night long – meaning they were not blurry and not too dark! Dirty dirty minds. My new digital camera is not all it is cracked up to be. No setting for dark AND movement. Davy is a blur of light or lost in the dark of most of my pictures.
was quite possible there was some activity "Goin' Down" directly four floors below our room.
Cindy: Sure….that’s what you meant!
Dawn: Bye Bye, Bye Bye, Bye Bye. It was getting late and I had to be up early with the kids, plans changed for me all week due to my grandmother-in-law’s funeral and memorial service. I had a wonderful time.
Cindy: The natives were still restless. I don’t think those drums have died down yet!
Bonnie: David concluded the concert with the song, "No Time". The Coyeetes were scheduled to play on stage until midnight. The radio station was doing a live remote with Dick Biondi in the theatre hallway, and we were told David was going to sign autographs. However, it was so cold and chaotic in the back of the theatre that we all decided to leave.
Cindy: It was good to see all of you!!!!! Can’t wait for the next time! Bonnie: Cindy and I arose bright and early and prepared to go down to the restaurant for coffee and breakfast. We chose a table in the back of the restaurant where we had sat the day before during lunch. Just a bit later, a couple walked in to the restaurant, and I thought to myself, 'Oh my stars!' It was the tall, thin man with the silver hair who had approached "the table" with Camp Jones the night before. He was with Deana Martin! He was Deana Martin's husband! They chose to sit at the round table right next to ours. Cindy and I could not believe it!
Dawn: We had our show earlier! Bonnie: Janet and Tom planned to drive home so we said our "Goodbyes" to them. Janet: Time seems to go by SO fast! We would have loved to stay and visit a bit, but I had to work the following day…and Tom and I were going to Lincolnshire the next evening. So…beauty rest was a priority! We had SUCH a good time, as always! Bonnie: Shortly thereafter, Dawn had to leave, too. We said our "Goodbyes" to her. Cindy and I retired to our room and stayed awake talking until about 0130. The heat was rising, and it
Cindy: Considering there had been no movie star the afternoon before we were certainly seeing stars now! A virtual 25
Monkee Shines behind on my e-mails!" She was so very nice. I asked if it would be alright for me to leave my name and address with her. She said that would be fine. Out of thin air, the waitress brought me something to write on. I sat down, wrote my address, and I returned it to Deana. She assured me she would get back with us. When they had finished their breakfast, they got up and said it was nice to meet us. (You must be joking!) It was "Nice To Be With You"! Again, she reiterated she would get back with us.
Milky Way! Bonnie: To infinity and beyond! As I was beginning to say, my friend, Diane Klosak, allowed me to borrow and read Deana Martin's book "Memories Are Made of This" back in the fall of 2004. On pages 143-144 she accounted memories with "Davy Jones". I had subsequently written her a letter and identical e-mail about her "Close Encounters of the Jones Kind." I thought it would make for a great article for our newsletter. However, she never responded, and I left it at that. Cindy and I were talking, and I said, "We need to talk with her!" I intended to say something to her if I could gain eye contact with her when we returned from getting a refill on our coffee. She was in the middle of a conversation, and after a few seconds (of me standing there) she looked up. In the most pleasant voice she said, "Hello‌" We exchanged pleasantries. We told her how much we enjoyed her appearance at the Arcada with David. She said, "Oh! You saw the show?!" We chatted a bit, and I explained that I had actually written a letter to her sometime ago. I told her, "My friend does a Monkees' newsletter, and we wanted to ask some questions about your memories with 'Davy Jones'." She asked us our names, and she introduced us to her husband and manager. Her husband said, "I saw that e-mail!" She said, "Well, I'm about a year
Cindy: I told Deana now that she had been at David’s show she needed to have him as a guest at hers. Adding that we would be there. Bonnie: I had just told Cindy I was surprised Craig had not phoned whilst I was in the middle of a conversation with Deana Martin! Just then, my phone rang, and it was Craig. At the same time, from yonder vantage point, I saw Aviva and David appear at the hostess booth. Craig was chatting a mile a minute, and I thought, "Everything's okay, but when you've got to go, you've GOT to go!" I told him David had just walked into the restaurant. When David saw us he waved and continued to find a table. I finished my conversation quickly with Craig, and then David walked over to our table. We commented that we loved his "shtick", but I said, "It was so tempting not to grab you by the 26
Monkee Shines throat and say, 'After all this time, you don't know where we live!'" He laughed. Cindy piped in, "Yes, and I wanted to say, 'You know, I can see right up your nose.'" David laughed and said, "Ya shudah dun it!" Cindy said, "Deana Martin was just here, but she left." David said, "She left?!" Cindy said, "Well, I don't know if she left the hotel, but she left the restaurant." We shared with him our conversation with her. We thought her guest appearance was great idea, and we thought when she performs in the Chicago area in March that she should invite him as her guest of honor! David commented about the little round (hobbit size) door alongside our table. Ironically, we had commented about that same thing a few minutes before. He said, "That door is just my size." We talked about how nice the hotel was, and he asked us if we had seen the ballroom. There was a ballroom? I knew Prince Charming (Or was it Buttons?) was there! Apparently, the floor had pretty colored lights. With a heavy sigh, I noticed the waitress next to our table. I got her attention and said, "Would you mind taking a picture of us?" and then I said to David, "Would you mind taking a picture with us?" He said, "Let's do it." He commented about the lovely (background) view of the Fox River behind our table, but then he thought there was too much light emitted from the window.
We decided to take a photo by a Roman/Grecian style column. The waitress kindly snapped our photo. David gave Cindy a hug and a kiss on the cheek. David gave me a hug as well. He returned to his table, and we returned to ours. I told Cindy, "We really have to go!" Cindy: And when you gotta go….you gotta go! Bonnie: David was seated with Dave and Deb Robicheau. We decided to walk over to their table before departure to thank David again for our 'dinner' the previous evening despite the fact we were just about the cheapest dates around. Deb asked if we were going to the concert that evening in Lincolnshire. I said, "No, my daughter said one night away was fine; two was a bit much." They nodded. Cindy also mentioned a winter storm was in the forecast, and we wanted to get home. David said, "How far of a drive is it for you?" We said, "Two and a half hours." He said, "My hotel room is farther away than that!" and laughed. Very funny! Cindy: And David thought Ken was the funny guy! Bonnie: He wasn’t boring, that’s for sure! We returned to our room to gather our belongings. It was then we realized we had totally forgotten to tip our waitress. I returned down 27
Monkee Shines to the restaurant. David and the Robicheau's were still there, and I did not want to make a spectacle. I asked the hostess to call our waitress over. I tipped her for our gratitude, and we proceeded to check out of the hotel.
story always seems to go on and on – even 20 years later – right Cindy! Cindy: Micky said doing the Monkees was not brain surgery and he’s right. But making people happy ….making people forget their day to day worries for a time…that’s no small thing. So most of us can’t say that The Monkees dramatically changed our lives, but God is in the details and it is often the small things that make the difference….and this world can use all the laughter and smiles it can get. Thanks David! It’s definitely NOT the end!
Janet: As we have heard “someone” say….”Good Things Stand the Test of Time.” I think this weekend, David’s shows, David’s company, proves just that! To paraphrase the song Dick Biondi played on Thursday night….you make US so very happy, we’re SO glad you came into our lives. Next time, David…dinner is on us! Bonnie: David has enough “I’ll Be True 2U” points accrued right now for just about anything! I don't know about Cinderella and the (female) Prince, but we knew we were in a state of "happy ever after". Dawn: My guess is that this is not THE END. The enchanted
Cindy, David and Bonnie 28
Monkee Shines
Write to your favorite Monkee at:
Susan Bragga 5728 Gatehouse Terrace Apt. A Eau Claire. WI 54701-5128
Davy Jones PO Box 400 Beavertown, PA 17180
Maria Tereza Pinho Gomes Da Silva Praca Cardeal Arcoverde #25 Apt. 802 Rio De Janeiro — RJ CEP 220440-030 Brazil
Peter Tork 524 San Anselmo Suite 102 San Anselmo, CA 94960 Mike Nesmith Video Ranch 8 Harris Court Suite C1 Monterey, CA 93940
Diane Scharp 14850 Phelps Drive Bridgeton, MO 63044
Micky Dolenz Paradise Artists 108 East Matilija Street Ojai, CA 93023
James Elswick 5017 W 2nd Street South Bloomfield, OH 43103
Nina Totaro 137 Long Point Road Stevensville, Maryland 216663639
Kathy Brewer 1198 Turkey Blind Road Crossville, TN 38572
Diane Klosak 2101 Nicholas Ct Bettendorf, IA 52722
Colleen Johnson 9104 Lemona Drive St. Louis, MO 63123
Rick Schwinden 3275 Valley Ridge Drive Egan, MN 55121
Susan Jensen 210 Washington Street Audubon, IA 50025-1133
Ronda Russell 2031 Glen Avenue Beloit, WI 53411
Brenda Routh Wylie 2224 Dean Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50317
29
Monkee Shines
E-mail Pals Maria Tereza Pinho Gomes Da Silva: terezaharrison@uol.com.br Janet Litterio: janet6356@juno.com Barbara Woerner: Wbwoerner@aol.com Nina Totaro: woolhat@atlanticbb.net If you would like your email address listed in Email Pals please let me know.
For those keeping score (see issue #64):
I’ll Be True 2U APB (Acquired Point Breakdown) February 2007 Name Micky Dolenz David Jones Michael Nesmith Peter Tork
Points 0 5200 0 500
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Monkee Shines
er” to the roar of a crowd of about 1,000 seated on blankets and in lawn chairs. Seating on the lawn in front of the Kane County Courthouse was free, but over 150 fans bought VIP reserved seating for $100 a pop. The concert benefited the Geneva History Center, which does not receive any tax dollars.
Geneva History Center benefit with former Monkee draws 1,000 By Nancy Greer Daily Herald Staff Writer
As lightning flashed in the north sky threatening to ruin the party, Davy Jones leaped on stage Saturday night in front of the Geneva History Center on Third Street and lit up the audience. “I know I look shorter on TV,” joked the 60-year-old singer who became famous when his British rock group The Monkees had their own Emmy-winning television show in the 1960’s. Accompanied by a five piece band that immediately went into The Monkees theme song, Jones opened with “I’m A Believ31
Monkee Shines “There are a lot of young people here,” Jones said in a British accent that hasn’t diminished since he was Marcia Brady’s prom date in a famous episode of “The Brady Bunch.” “We don’t say old anymore, it’s young and younger.” There were sprinkles as he sang, but the heavy rain held off Before the concert, Ashley Gabrys, 16, of Steamwood clutched an 8-by-10-inch glossy of Davy Jones and admitted she hoped to get a chance to ask him to autograph it. “I saw him on Me TV and I really like him,” she said. “I just got the first season of his television show on DVD.” Ashley was with her parents and 18-year-old sister on the lawn. “I liked him when I was little but I lost interest when I was a teenager,” said Pam Kaniuk, 47, of Chicago, who was one of the first to buy a $100 ticket. “Then I saw him in Wisconsin and I was very impressed by his performance. At 60, he can still bounce around on stage. He’s very nice to his fans.” Kaniuk’s friend Kathleen Jacobs of Dundee brought a dozen red roses she hoped to hand to the star. She and Kaniuk will travel to Pennsylvania and New York this fall to see other Jones’ concerts. “I loved him as a kid,” said Dawn Vogelsberg, 44 cochair of the event with Terry Burns. Vogelsberg is the third ward alderman in Geneva and
Burns is the wife of Mayor Kevin Burns. They picked Jones up at the airport Friday. He’s a generous person who loves small towns, “ Vogelsberg said. “He has a big heart He’s always talking about his four daughters and he asked Terry and me about our children. Vogelsberg said Jones was paid for the concert but offered a “beneficial” rate. She expects the concert to raise about $10,00 for the history center despite the fact that the committee spent $35,000 on renting a good stage and hired a production company. The concert committee was formed only three months ago when Burns emailed Vogelserg on July 4th with the suggestion of having Jones perform in Geneva. They contacted his manager and the rest is part of British/American History.
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Monkee Shines
Hey, hey, it’s a Monkee Jones’ free concert has crowd dancing in the street By Kelly Casino
waiting all day to sing to you all.” Lynn Amos and her 10year-old daughter, Lily staked out
Geneva — If there’s one man who can make people dance in the streets of Geneva, it’s Davy Jones. And he did on Saturday night. The former Monkees frontman began the free concert on Third Street with “I’m A Believer,” and he kept the music rolling with many other Monkees hits. “Well, we’ve had a lot of requests tonight, but we’re going to sing anyway,” Jones joked from the stage. “We’ve been
A Davy Jones fan since she was 6, Karen Harvey Of Swego brought a Monkees album cover to the concert. Jones performed Monkees hits Saturday night during a free concert on Third Street. “We’ve been waiting all day to sing to you all,”
33
Monkee Shines their front and center spots around noon, and they weren’t about to give up their seats for anyone. “A lot of people just came and dumped their blanket on the ground and left,” Amos said. “We’re staying. We don’t want anybody to move our chairs...I love Davy Jones.” By the time the 6:30 p.m. show began, thousands of people crowded the courthouse lawn,. Many brought blankets and lawn chairs along with their cameras and dinner: Everything from soda and coffee, to ice cream and pizza, were brought with picnic style meals. Of the crowd, Tom Manson said, “It’s bigger than I’ve seen for Swedish Days. It looks like it anyway.” This September marked 40 years since the Monkees first aired on TV. Jones now travels the globe with his band performing shows both big and small. But there is a special place in his heart for the United States and he recently applied for citizenship here. “I’ve traveled all over the world, and this is the place to be,” he said. On Saturday, Geneva was the place to be for avid Monkee fans, Karen Johnston drove 1 1/2 hours to Geneva from her home in Round Lake Beach. “I go to every show when he’s in Chicagoland,”
Johnston said of Jones, hours before the concert started. The drives are always worth it, she says. Jones puts on a good show, which he proved in Geneva Saturday night. “We give it our all,” he said. “We play all those Monkee songs.” The concert was sponsored by the Geneva History Center.
34
Monkee Shines
Me And You And A Camera Crew By: Bonnie Borgh (Based upon Lobo’s “Me And You And A Dog Named Boo”) I remember to this day the fun along the way How much laughter can one road trip contain? Those Poison CD’s had to go; who would bring them, I don’t know Oh, how I wish we were back on the road again. Me and you and a camera crew Travellin’ again to see the band Me and you and a camera crew How I love bein’ a Jones’ fan. I can still recall Colleen driving us all And the moment we all met those Canadian men Oh yes Daniel made us work but never paid us for what it’s worth A needed potty break and back in the van again. We’ll never forget those two and all of the things we got to do Our trip to Geneva probably drove them both insane Though it’s only been a day or so We’re ready for another show We gotta get away and get back on the road again…
Patrick and Daniel from Peacepoint Productions
35
Monkee Shines Cast: The Purple Flower Gang Road Crew Cindy Bryant Bonnie Borgh Colleen Johnson Kimmi Wright (unavailable for comments) Guest Stars: Honorary Road Crew Chick Daniel (Daniella) Honorary Road Crew Patrick
The Geneva Convention The Road Crew Takes Prisoners
Cindy: Long, long ago (a couple months really) in a galaxy far, far away (Canada actually)…sorry Daniel, I couldn't resist… Peacepoint TV decided to do a series called Fanatical.
Scranton. Cindy: We hadn't been on a real road trip in a while and nothing was looming large on the horizon when I received an e-mail from someone at Peacepoint TV about a series they were filming called Fanatical. They were looking for Monkee fans with a story to tell, and if there is one thing we have, it is stories. While talking to Stephanie from Peacepoint in a follow-up phone call, I mentioned that David was doing a show in Geneva, Illinois, but we had not yet made plans to attend. Stephanie, who is obviously wise beyond her years, thought it might be a good idea to send an embedded film crew along for the ride and thus, Daniel and Patrick were drafted into the PFG road
Bonnie: As David would say, "And that would be them!" Cindy: Twenty-six (26) half-hour episodes featuring fans of various TV shows. And two innocent (sort of) film makers found themselves in the middle of a PFG road trip to Geneva, Illinois…well, at least it wasn't Scranton! Colleen: Daniel and Patrick had a hard time talking about Scranton. You could see the fear in their eyes. The PFG still wonders what happened to them in 36
Monkee Shines crew. As David says, "Once you're in, you're in!"
The Geneva Conventions consist of four treaties formulated in Geneva, Switzerland (a lovely place to visit where the hills are alive with The Sound of Music),…
Unlike Vegas, what happens on a PFG road trip becomes public knowledge
Colleen: Bonnie I messed up in some of our earlier conversations. Actually The Trapp Family was from Austria – sorry – I should have done my homework. But did you know when The Trapp Family exiled from Austria – they landed in Stowe, Vermont. I was there once – actually just a decade ago – it is simply gorgeous there and gives you the feeling that you are in the throws of The Alps and yes I did find myself pulling a Julie Andrews – “The hills are alive with the sound of music…”
Colleen: yep like Burlington (Iowa) Steamboat Days 1998. I will always remember the room on the 3rd floor at the end of the hall with the Jacuzzi ……….. :o) Cindy: in these newsletters, and this was to be no exception. Daniel and Patrick were about to find out that the Rules of The Geneva Convention with regards to prisoners are only guidelines, really. Bonnie: Speaking of which, perhaps you haven’t been following governmental affairs for the past hundred-something years. Please allow me to refresh your memory.
Cindy: Monkee music???? Colleen: No, Rodgers and Hammerstein??
Dawn Hoffman. Bonnie Borgh & Cindy Bryant
37
Monkee Shines Bonnie: For example, the First Geneva Convention states: “for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and Sick in Armed Forces in the Field” (first adopted in 1864 and last revised in 1949). [Perhaps the reason it is difficult to adhere to is that nobody knows what Amelioration means without Leiber & Stoller, Funk & Wagnalls, etc.]
Bonnie:… that set the standards for international law for humanitarian concerns (concerts, whatever). The conventions were the results of efforts by Henri Dunant (whoever he was, he’s no Davy Jones), who was motivated by the horrors of war he witnessed at the Battle of Solferino (or was that Scranton) in 1859 (a hundred years before I was born). [Essentially, it’s permissible to torture and kill; you just have to do it nicely.]
Colleen: pssssst - Bonnie Geneva is also famous for their chocolate. :o)
Cindy: You mean in the nicest possible way?
Bonnie: Clara Barton may have been instrumental in campaigning for the ratification of the First Geneva Convention by the United States, but The Purple Flower Gang will be cited for their contributions to the most recent Geneva Convention on September 30, 2006. For on this day, David Jones performed a “free” concert commemorating The Monkees’ 40th anniversary on television
Bonnie: In 1977 and 2005 three separate amendments, called protocols, were made part of the Geneva Conventions. Colleen: Bonnie – Geneva, Switzerland is also famous for their chocolate. :o)
Dawn and Alan
38
Monkee Shines This is now: Bonnie and Alan in 2006
That was then: Alan Green in 1987!
Alan chatting with the Gang in Geneva, Illinois
39
Monkee Shines (September 12, 1966) in downtown Geneva across from the courthouse. Fittingly, the Geneva History Center presented this event.
those Graham’s chocolates were luscious. I guess it has something to do with cities named Geneva – they have good chocolate. :o)
Colleen: Excuse me - BONNIE - Geneva is also famous for their chocolate we should probably mention that too. :o)
Bonnie; bountiful continental breakfast featuring Belgian waffles, exercise room, swimming pools, but alas, no movie stars. Map Quest to the rescue, and The Gang was set.
Bonnie: As all important matters go, you simply can’t have a meeting without an agenda. Since knowledge of the concert became available, The Gang rallied their troops into action.
The PFG road crew was notified that they would be deployed Saturday, September 30 at approximately 0800
It was the assignment of the senior official, Craig Borgh, to locate accommodations to house the members of The Gang. Through intensive search (and at least one black/ white and color printer cartridge), it was determined the $99.00 (plus carrying charges) "Festival of the Vine" package at the Comfort Inn and Suites in Geneva was the best deal. They offered a one-night stay in a whirlpool
Colleen: Greenwich Time? Military Time? Central Time? Eastern Time?
Colleen: I ended up with the room with the whirlpool but I SLASH we didn’t ever get to use it. See we ended up in this little hole in the wall bar. More on that later.
Cindy: Midwest pronunciation for Moline….
Bonnie: leaving from the Borgh residence in Bettendorf, Iowa. The Canadian film crew arrived in Mahloin, … Cindy: tion….
pronuncia-
Bonnie: Illinois (formerly known as Moelean)
Colleen: Time out – Moline is my birthplace – actually just a decade ago ……….. I am not sensitive or anything ………. to make it easy on Daniel and Patrick – Moline rhymes with my name – “Coelean from Moelean”
Bonnie: or two-room suite along with a complementary box of Graham’s chocolates, Colleen:
Canadian
I have to tell you 40
Monkee Shines Bonnie: on Friday, September 29 and was scheduled to join us on the long and winding road to Geneva at 0900 hours the following day.
Cindy, Kimmi, and I. Bonnie: Daniel wanted to ride with us in order to film us throughout our travels. Craig and Hannah traveled together in our family car. Patrick drove separately due to the amount of camera and sound equipment which would be required. Everything was fine until we reached the stop sign at the end of our court.
Cindy: Wrong group Bonnie‌ although I am told the Monkees were a great influence on the Beatles. Bonnie: At approximately 0920 an unidentified van drove down West Crest Court. The driver asked for "Cindy" at which point we said, "You must be Daniel and Patrick". We decided to exchange formal introductions after their van was parked.
Rule #2 of The Geneva Convention Fine is not always fine. See Webster. Cindy: Most men should know that already!!!!
Rule #1 of The Geneva Convention Always address an individual in the manner in which they preferred to be called. This rule was established in the first few minutes with the camera man who wished to be called "Daniel" (not Dan, Danny, or certainly not Danielle).
Bonnie: It would seem that Poison CD's were mistakenly brought along rather than a varied selection of Monkees' CD's. I raced back into the house, grabbed a handful of Monkees' recordings, and we were officially on the road again. Cindy: Kimmi, what were you thinking?????
Cindy: Rules were made to be broken.
Colleen: Hey does anyone want to sing Monkee songs? I have a Monkee karaoke CD?
Bonnie: Since the crew arrived after the arrival of the PFG members and the majority of the packing was already completed, we had to restage our initial greetings and luggage assembly for the benefit of those who tuned in late. We also had to figure out who was riding with whom. Colleen had rented a van to accommodate
Bonnie: Rule #3 of The Geneva Convention On a bonafide Monkees' adventure, alternative groups are not permitted for listening enjoyment. Innocent passengers are not to be subjected to musical paradigm shifts. 41
Monkee Shines Colleen: Hey does anyone want to sing Monkee songs? I have a Monkee karaoke CD?
crew knew nothing of Hazel! We had meant to call her before we left home but there was such a flurry of activity that we forgot.
Cindy: No wonder Daniel had visions of himself pounding on the back window of the van pleading to passing cars and Patrick, who was obliviously singing along with Tim McGraw and Alan Jackson, to rescue him…eh!
Bonnie: Hazel and Cindy chatted. Cindy passed the phone to me. Hazel and I chatted. I passed the phone to Kimmi. Hazel and Kimmi chatted. Kimmi passed the phone to Colleen. Hazel and Colleen chatted.
Colleen: You go Patrick -- too bad I was driving “The Girls” van (with Daniel our token male on board) – I like Alan Jackson – too.
Cindy: Hazel always has a story just like her little brother. Apparently she was incensed at a newspaper that had recently printed that David was dead! Well we know better!
Bonnie: With Colleen in the driver's seat
Bonnie: Rule #4 of The Geneva Convention Never talk (on the phone) and drive. Both hands should be on the steering wheel at all times unless you're driving a five speed.
Colleen: Yes – me in the driver’s seat – kind of unusual – aye Cindy? Bonnie: and Cindy in the front passenger seat, we began. Occasionally, Kimmi, I and Daniel would exchange seats in order to facilitate filming.
Cindy: Or drive with a camera in your face…eh! Bonnie: Thus, Colleen kindly returned the phone to Cindy.
Colleen: You did it very discreetly I have to say ……….
Colleen: Yes I need to keep my eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel – whoops almost hit a caterpillar. For some reason only Kimmi and I can see them.
Bonnie: It was literally one story after another and endless laughter the entire trip. Above the din (din?) Cindy was able to place a phone call to Hazel. I had written to Hazel that we were planning to go to David's concert in Geneva, but she knew nothing about the Canadian film crew.
Bonnie: Cindy concluded the phone conversation with Hazel. The marvels of modern technology still amaze me to be able to speak with someone another continent away on a cell phone while traveling in a car.
Cindy: Just as well as the film 42
Monkee Shines Colleen: It was a pretty pricey Oasis for the Midwest – I wasn’t too hungry just thirsty so I purchased a Vitamin Water for $4.00 bucks – yikes !! Oh heck it’s only money …………
Mother Nature called, and we decided to stop in convoy at the oasis (Thanks for the plagiaristic idea for Midday at the Oasis, Cindy!) near DeKalb. Colleen: Maria Muldaur – aye? I used to sing that song back in my Rock and Roll band days – just a decade ago …………
Cindy: Time flies when you are having fun. While standing in line at Subway I asked Daniel if he was getting anything he could use and he quickly replied that he had enough for 8 shows. But was it anything he could use?!
Cindy: My pleasure …glad I could help! Bonnie: Cindy suggested we might want to also grab a bite to eat. I thought it was a bit too early (around 1100 hours), but when I checked my watch it was noon! I said, "I had no idea it was 12:00 o'clock!"
Bonnie: Rule #5 of The Geneva Convention Breakfast is between 0700 and 0800 hours, lunch is between 1200 and 1300 hours, and dinner is between 1500 and 1600 hours. Fasting should be for religious or blood-screening purposes only.
Colleen: Time flies when you are having fun and we were having some fun in that Kia Sedona …..
Without further ado, we were back on the road again. Daniel attempted to artistically film out the car window.
Cindy: Does anybody really know what time it is? Okay, okay! Wrong group again!
Colleen: “Oh beautiful for spacious skies for amber waves of grain.” Daniel was wondering when the scenery was going to change. Welcome to The Great Midwest in lower North America.
Colleen: not to worry …………. Cindy: But we were headed towards Chicago! Colleen: Colour “our” World with love …………
Bonnie: Perhaps he figured an attempted escape onto the highway at 65 mph would be less painful than another hour in the van with the likes of our crazy lot. We arrived in Geneva at approximately 1300 hours. Since the Map Quest directions we had were from our house to the ven-
Bonnie: Since there were a variety of fast-food establishments at the rest area, we decided to eat lunch. (It was a good thing, too, since our dinner turned out to be ten hours later. 43
Monkee Shines ue, we went there first. We found the stage quite easily (it was blocking the street). We observed blankets scattered on the ground which indicated reserved campsites.
ready at the hotel. I was talking with former SLASH original PFG member, Dawn (Van Meter) Hoffman. She and Emily (her daughter) were waiting for us to arrive at the Comfort Inn. Unable to find the hotel in a timely manner, we agreed to stop and (gasp) ask for directions. Kimmi was appointed this task. Within a few minutes, we were once again on the right path to our destination.
It was then decided to locate our hotel, check in, return to the concert setting, and set up camp. En route to the hotel, we had a one U-turn, and we caught Patrick in the van behind us mouthing undisclosed words in French.
Cindy: Things get a little tense when you are in a hurry and things aren’t where they are supposed to be. Daniel sat quietly in the front seat. I explained that if he assumed the fetal position and didn’t look anyone directly in the eye that he would survive.
Colleen: Sorry Patrick – I had an opportunity to “U” and I took it. I need to brush up on those hair pin turns. Cindy: Those weren’t French words but I have heard them used in conjunction with, “Pardon my French!”
Bonnie: At the hotel, we exchanged greetings and introductions with Dawn. Emily and Hannah (three months apart in age) played "Eloise in the Plaza" together. We checked into our rooms. After a quick costume change, we were ready to return to the venue. By the time we arrived there, the promise of a pleasant afternoon was unquestionable. In fact, the temperature warmed up nicely…imagine that!
Bonnie: We also had one hairpin turn to which Daniel calmly said, "I'm gonna die now." Colleen: Sorry Daniel. I knew we would be ok in our car but I was more concerned about Patrick following behind us. This little episode reminded me of another time and another road trip up in Northwestern Iowa. I get a bit anxious when driving around and haven’t a clue where I am.
Courtesy of Janet and Tom Litterio, we found two purple flower blankets with "reserved for The PFG" written across them. We enjoyed the afternoon sound check. Unfortunately (in keeping with the words from John Boy), stars never do sound checks. We passed the afternoon by filming intermittent interview shots.
Cindy: This from a guy who spent time in the Israeli army and has been shot at. PFG road trips are not for the faint of heart! Bonnie: Meanwhile, I learned that Craig and Hannah were al44
Monkee Shines Craig was thrilled to find "The Gift Box" (a Swedish retail store) and purchased some Swedish candy, etc.
stop which gave me some extra time to browse the hardware store. It wasn’t even Halloween and the store already had Christmas Snowman ornaments for sale. Imagine that – and the Snowmen SLASH Snowwomen had names. too Imagine that – there was one named Patrick and another was named Daniel. Kimmi made me buy the snowwoman named Danielle. Patrick, Kimmi almost had me buy the Snowman – I mean Snowwoman named Patricia …….. :o) We presented “The Boys” with their ornaments, or should I say trophies, at Cindy’s the next day.
Colleen: I should have done my homework. I had no idea that Geneva had so much Swedish heritage. I am half Swedish. “Hard to Believe” I know - I should be blonde aye? Oh by the way – Miss Hannah thanks for sharing your candy with me. Bonnie: He also took Hannah and Emily on a field trip to an ice cream parlor. The girls so enjoyed playing together. Dawn, Emily, Hannah, and I took a stroll down the street to capture a photo of a marquee with David's concert information on it. We passed an antique store so we went inside. The girls each found a little trinket, and Dawn was kind enough to purchase them. We stopped at a Subway nearby to use their restroom facilities and buy a soda.
Bonnie: Attending a Monkees' concert is very much like going to a family reunion. It's an opportunity to see people we have not seen for awhile. It was nice to talk with Tom and Janet and meet their friend, Nancy. We also chatted with Karen Brostrom. Debbie Garey approached Cindy in hopes of answering her burning question.
Rule #6 of The Geneva Convention The venue should provide modern public (not primitive) toilets. Port-a-Potties and alternative brand outhouses are not acceptable.
Cindy: Debbie said, “I have to ask you where you got the Monkeeopoly!” I started laughing and asked her where she had seen it. Apparently Hazel had sent her a photo of it. I explained that it could not be bought …we had made it. She said she had even gone to toy stores looking for it!
Colleen: While Bonnie, Dawn, Craig, Hannah and Emily were strolling the streets of Geneva, Kimmi and I were looking for a place to buy a couple of lawn chairs. We lucked out and found a couple of chairs at the local Ace Hardware. While we were in the store, Kimmi had to take a pit
Bonnie: We saw Mike and Beverlie Bush; Dawn and I chatted with them briefly. Just before the show started, Cindy said to me, "Bonnie…Is that Alan Green?" I 45
Monkee Shines looked in the direction she pointed. When my neurons finally started to fire, I said, "I think it is!" He actually walked over to our campsite. I said, "Alan Green!" He looked at me, smiled, and said, "Yes! Who have we here?" I said, "Bonnie Borgh…The Purple Flower Gang!" It was instant recall, and he said, "The Purple Flower Gang!" Immediate hugs were all around. He left momentarily, came right back, and voluntarily posed for pictures with us. It had been nineteen years since our paths crossed, and it was such a delight to see him again.
Listen to the Band (intro) I'm A Believer Look Out Here Comes Tomorrow Valleri What Am I Doin' Hanging Round? It's Nice To Be With You The Girl I Knew Somewhere Wasted Days and Wasted Nights Let Them Be Little She Hangs Out Consider Yourself Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby Girl Bright Side of the Road I Wanna Be Free (I'll) Love You Forever Papa Gene's Blues Free (I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone Daydream Believer Secret Love No Time I'm A Believer
Cindy: What a surprise to see Alan after 19 years! We had been pretty close to Alan in those first years…starting with a 17 year old Dawn writing him a letter and enclosing her phone number …”in case he wanted to call.” He did much to her surprise and soon we were helping out with David’s book signing tour.
Cindy: The sky looked quite threatening for a while but nothing serious developed.
Bonnie: After the usual and customary pre-show announcements, David's show began at 6:40 pm. David wore a long sleeve black sweater and black pants. Although I refused to look, Craig mentioned seeing lightening flash in the sky. Despite several intermittent rain showers, the show went on without interruption. It was not going to rain on our parade! In fact, David commented that it rained frequently in Manchester, and he seemed quite calm about it. David performed:
Colleen: How lucky to be seated under a tree which broke the raindrops. Thanks goodness it wasn’t lightening. :oO Bonnie: All too soon the show ended. Relentless, Daniel and Patrick had a few moments more to film our crazy lot before a "wrap" for the evening. We thought perhaps David might sign autographs after the show as a queue had formed. We waited for perhaps an hour before it was decided that we had grossly vio46
Monkee Shines lated Rule #5 of The Geneva Convention. We then caravanned to the Mill Race Inn restaurant at the suggestion of Daniel and Patrick.
wonderful restaurant! We were so engrossed in our conversation we hadn’t noticed that there was no one else left in the place. We had hoped to continue our conversation at a local watering hole after getting Daniel and Patrick settled in their hotel but the place we were directed to turned out to be a very small local bar too small for the 4 piece band that was waging war on everyone’s ears with what should have been some classic rock songs…I will never hear Hurts So Good the same way again.
Colleen: Did you know that the Mill Race Inn has been hosting parties for the last 66 years and offers 5 unique atmospheres? Unbelievable – aye? And that it has been located at the Fox River Bridge in Geneva (Illinoise) since 1933. Bonnie: The dynamic duo had made acquaintance with the owner of the restaurant at the venue, and complementary hors d'oeuvres were placed before us. Hannah and I enjoyed the fried calamari. I think Craig did, too, until he realized what it was. It was after 2200 hours before our dinners were even ordered. Hannah behaved remarkably well, but by 2315 hours, it was time for the Borgh family to be excused. (I realize sometimes there is no excuse for us!) It would seem, however, the party continued until Sometime in the Morning.
The noise was so loud we had to yell to be heard and poor Daniel shrunk to the floor as the band ended one number just as he shouted, “This band sucks!” into total silence. It would have been funny if our ears hadn’t been bleeding! We called it a night around 2 AM. Bonnie: Rule #7 of The Geneva Convention Normal bedtime is between 2000 and 2100 hours. Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.
Colleen: Yes at that little hole in the wall bar.
The next morning, I arose shortly after 0700 hours and sleepwalked to the pool. By 0730 hours, Hannah was eagerly prepared to swim, and Craig escorted her to join me already in progress. We played in the water for an hour, showered, and ate a lovely breakfast but once again disobeyed Rule #5 of The Geneva Convention. We exchanged
Cindy: We sat for some time talking and laughing. The “Dynamic Duo”…I like that Bonnie!... had some great stories to tell. We said something to our waiter about them waiting for us to leave so they could close and we were politely told that they had actually closed at 10! But that we need not hurry. What a 47
Monkee Shines table partners in the dining area and gathered copies of the Sunday newspaper. There was a great color photo of Cindy and (her daughter) Kimmi on the front page directly below David's picture.
cided to eat a quick lunch at Arby's [There was a great five (items) for $5.95 deal available.] before returning home and unloading the luggage and miscellaneous items in the car. Shortly after 1400 hours, I was "On the Road Again" once again "Goin' Down" to Muscatine to conclude the memorabilia portion of the filming. Kimmi and Colleen were at Cindy's place already, and I arrived in Muscatine at 1500 hours. Daniel and Patrick followed very closely afterwards. The next few hours involved setting up lights and sound equipment to film a virtual tour of Cindy's Monkees' memorabilia. Colleen needed to return to the Quad Cities (and subsequently back to St. Louis the following Tuesday). Kimmi needed to return to Des Moines (another three hour car trip). They both left Cindy's place at 1800 hours. Little did they know the Canadian crew would still be filming six hours later! My memorabilia (which I had transported to Cindy's house the previous Friday) was scattered about Cindy's kitchen table, and they wanted to film us as we reminisced over our most cherished artifacts. That part was easy!
Cindy: For all intents and purposes Kimmi IS my daughter! That’s my story and I’m sticking to it! … I know, I know…wrong group again! Bonnie: By 1000 hours, Cindy, Colleen, and Kimmi departed in the van with the Borgh family in the Taurus en route back home to Iowa by 1030 hours. Before leaving Geneva, however, Hannah requested that we drive by the store where Dawn purchased the little trinket (doll) for her. Sadly, the doll had accidentally fallen out of her pocket. Unfortunately, the store was closed. Hannah asked if we might be able to drive to where the concert was held because she wanted to see if she might be able to find the missing doll. The likelihood of finding the doll was vastly remote, but we stopped. Within about five seconds, she found the doll lying on the courthouse steps where she had been playing the night before. The magic of DJ was still in the air.
Colleen: I just want to say thanks to Cindy, Bonnie, Kimmi and Daniel and Patrick too for another great road trip. It had been a couple of years since all of us had been on a trip together. As always, this trip gave us more memories to treasure and more stories to share. Thanks my dear
Cindy: The trip home was sadly uneventful and not nearly as much fun! Bonnie: Craig, Hannah, and I arrived back in Bettendorf approximately 1315 hours. We de48
Monkee Shines friends. Looking forward to our next road trip. :o)
have been like for The Monkees' when they filmed the episodes of their television series all day, went into the recording studio and recorded music into the wee hours of the morning, and then repeated the above twenty-four seven. I was basically unaware of all of the particulars involved in proper film lighting and how common household sounds such as those emitted from the refrigerator and air conditioner impact sound quality.
Rule #8 of The Geneva Convention "If you wanna be a Princess, you gotta take the tabloids with the tiara." In other words, if you want to be featured as devout Monkees' fans, you have to be interrogated by the likes of two foreign filmmakers with disregard for basic needs such as adequate sleep, occasional meals, potty breaks, etc. Cindy: I am sure Daniel thought this part of the whole process was a nightmare. We had to shut the windows, turn off the air conditioner and refrigerator for sound purposes. The temperature which had been relatively cool in the days before had turned into the 80s and the apartment was so hot. We were tired and hungry, answering questions we had not been allowed to see before hand. My answers were not what I wanted to say. I so much wanted to let people know that fans were not all crazy car chasing maniacs, that it wasn’t even so much how much memorabilia you had bought or how many concerts you had been to that made you a fan. It is so hard to think with a camera stuck in your face, even though Daniel is truly a master at making you feel comfortable‌for the most part. ď Š
I was asked a list of approximately twenty (unbeknownst to me) questions. As I later explained to Daniel, it is much easier for me to express myself non-verbally (via the written word) as opposed to verbally (especially with a camera pointed in my direction). I thought perhaps I might at least get a sneak preview of the questions whilst they were setting up the light and sound equipment. Negative! Cindy was interviewed with another list of approximately twenty (unbeknownst to her) questions. I thought she should have been awarded an Emmy for some of her answers. Overall, I think it gave us a deeper understanding of how The Monkees must have felt when they wanted more artistic control over the direction of their television series. There were things Cindy and I wanted to share that simply did not lend themselves to the questions.
Bonnie: As they say, what goes around comes around. The whole filming process was very interesting, and it gave me a real appreciation for what it must
It was shortly after midnight when Daniel finally declared, "It's a wrap!" I asked, "What happens 49
Monkee Shines next?" He said the film will now be in the hands of the editors/ producers. He continued that the series has been doing really well, and they are really pushing to get the episodes out. He thought it should be completed in approximately a month and a half. The good news is that if we appear less than desirable it will only be aired (as far as we know now) in Canada (on the equivalent station of TV Land in the United States). We were afforded the unique opportunity to collectively and individually portray ourselves as decent and respectable Monkees' fans. We sincerely hope we achieved that goal and reflected the blessings of our friendships (because of them) along the way.
here are the answers I would have liked to have given to a few of the questions I was asked: Is your interest in the Monkees “romantic”? Maybe when I was 12 it was but not now. I grew out of that a long, long time ago. I love the Monkees for their talents, for the people I have come to know them to be, and for all the wonderful things that have come into my life as a result of my involvement in Monkee fandom. It is not a romantic love but a love nonetheless. What “lessons” have you learned from the Monkees’ TV show? The Monkees show was fun. I don’t believe there was any hidden meaning in it all, it was just fun….but then again….maybe there was…four friends traveling through life together (sound familiar road crew?), getting into scrapes and all sorts of mischief, standing together in adversity, caring for each other….maybe the lesson was the importance of friendship, having people who care about you and whom you care about.
Cindy: Amen! Post script: While filming Fanatical was great fun, the interview part was frustrating. You have one idea of where you want to go with it, especially knowing that one of the guys is actually going to see it, and the director has his vision of what the show is about.
What do you want from the future of Monkee fandom?
Being new to all of this and more than a little intimidated, it is hard to think with a camera pointed in your face and being asked questions you have not had a chance to preview.
A long time ago Bonnie and I wrote a small article for the newsletter stating what we hoped for the future. We said we would like to develop a friendship that would last even after the concerts were over. We have that with David to a certain degree. One of my fondest memories is sitting in David’s living room in PA discuss-
I spent the days following the interview going over and over what I would have liked to have said so 50
Monkee Shines ing phone bills. In the future I would like to think that one day we’ll be able to sit in that same living room and remember when…
mood. When his beloved horse, Digpast, died he spoke of burying him somewhere in Kentucky and of how he would visit off and on and have a chat. Taking what information we had we did a little investigation and found the farm where Digpast was buried. A few phone calls confirmed the location and with a few more we were able to have a tree planted at the spot so that when David went to visit his old friend there would be shade for him to sit under. They are the kinds of things friends do without expecting something in return. Over the years I think David has come to realize we can be trusted. It is a nice feeling to see him smile when he sees us in the audience.
Having that kind of a relationship with a celebrity is really pretty rare! I know you called David’s sister on the way to the concert… how did that come to be? Partly luck but I would like to think that it is also a common respect for each other. We have always tried to never be intrusive in David’s life. I have seen so many fans interrupt his meals and make demands on his time. That’s not our style. We like to know that he knows when we have traveled to see a show so we leave little gifts at the venue before hand…sometimes flowers and sometimes silly little personal things. We recently created a Monkeeopoly game based on our involvement with his career which was so much fun to put together. We don’t have to give them to him personally or go to the stage during the show to get his attention. We don’t seek out the hotels he is staying at so we can stay at the same one. I know he thinks we always know where he is but the truth is 99 per cent of the time it is totally coincidental when we do and then we do our best not to run into him… it is much more gratifying when he stops to talk to us because he wants to not because he can’t avoid it. Once when he was taking a Bahamas vacation we found out where he was staying and simply sent a bouquet of flowers to him to wish him a wonderful trip. When he was recording a Christmas album in July we sent him a Christmas card to put him in the
Describe the Road Crew. Ah, together they are my best friends and I can not imagine life without them. The Monkees are the magnet that drew us all together from various parts of the country but we stay connected because we are friends. We might never have met if it weren’t for our common love. That’s a scary thought! I thank God every night for these people! Colleen: She seems quite reserved until you get to know her. The Karaoke Queen. A true Davy fan! Pure class! She always makes me smile! Kimmi: Part Micky and part Peter. Our eternal child…at home jumping on beds and playing Barbies. A hippy at heart, she was born 40 years too late. She is the daughter I always wanted. She puts on a tough exterior but she is really a sensitive tender 51
Monkee Shines hearted person. Our diplomat and PR person! Bonnie: All Jones, all the time! But she is happy to see the other guys too…even if she thinks they were only David’s back up band! What would I have done without her?! We were friends as soon as we met. We laugh until our faces hurt and we have shared a tear or two. We think so much alike we can finish each other’s sentences. We have as much fun planning our road trips as we do actually taking them. What do I want from Fanatical? I would like for David to get a glimpse into our world. I would like for him to understand that Monkee business is not brain surgery for sure but like the ripples in a pool everything he does creates more ripples that touch people in ways he will never fathom. He brought us together as friends and he makes us smile. We love him and the Monkees for that. No, it’s not brain surgery, but in
Dawn, Cindy, & Colleen
a world with so much sadness, making people happy is no small thing either!
Cindy, Bonnie, Janet, & and Janet’s friend
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Midday At The Oasis Thanks to Maria Muldaur Midday at the Oasis There's one up ahead Camera's filming our faces Taping funny things we all said Daniel's work has just begun Hiding his disgust Let's slip off to the show; it's fun Geneva is a must Log on, Map Quest is a godsend It'll route us the way Come on, we're all good friends We're all good friends. You don't need no money It's a free affair We sure hope it is warm and sunny No Time for despair
A big star known to all There's no need to be jealous We’ll all have a ball Seeing cornfields in the fall But you won't get no Emmy, honey When you're shooting us But we are pretty funny Though a bit ridiculous Log on, Map Quest is a godsend It'll route us the way Come on, we're all good friends We're all good friends Midday at the Oasis We have all been fed Camera's filming our faces But forget about the bread. Oh dear...Who writes that stuff?
We heard your uncle is famous
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Monkee Shines
Lucky Diane Klosak was presented with this Monkees Game at her surprise birthday party in November by her very thoughtful brother. According to the email from the seller Micky’s second cousin was also bidding on it hoping to give it to Micky for Christmas! Oops! Sorry Micky!
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Monkee Shines To our Foreign Correspondent: We hope you were able to join your family in sunny Florida this May for David’s Epcot shows. We’d love to hear “the rest of the Story”! Out Of Our Radius
Hotel Baker, We would like to know what type of security system you have in place in your lobby. We would like a copy of the surveillance video from January 19, 2007 between 4:30 and 5:30 pm. Inquiring Minds
CD1, What is our radius? CD2 Dear “April”, Did you ever think on that fateful day at the auto show that we would be where we were, doing what we were doing, 20 years later? We’ve come a long way baby! And I am so glad you were there! Leader of the Pack!
Cinderella! You MUST be joking!!!! An audience of 3
David,
David, You shtick with us and we’ll shtick with you! Cindy, Bonnie, & Dawn
Have you been talking to Tommy Chong? He’s getting a little shticky too! “I Do Shtick”
Kimmi & Colleen, We missed you! Cindy & Bonnie
Dave A, Glad to see you back where you belong! The Gang
Hey Daniel and Patrick! “Mahloin” misses you. Come back and see us!!!! The “Girls” Van Chaffeur
Colleen, Welcome to the 21st century! LOL! CU! Cindy
Hey Cindy, Bonnie, and Kimmi, “You have mail!” Guess Who? :o)
And you know who you are! 55
Monkee Shines
Peter News Cambria Hotel - Shoe Suede Blues New CD Peter Tork and Shoe Suede Blues: CAMBRIA HOTEL is finished with an expected release date of 1/23/2007! Tunes from the full length CD - Cambria Hotel - include: I Know Love One More Heartache Bound to Lose Last Train to Clarksville The Mighty Are Falling (by Richard Mikuls) God Given Grant (by Peter Tork/Nick Thorkelson) Ain't Your Fault (by Peter Tork) For Pete's Sake (by Peter Tork/J. Richards) Annie Had a Baby Good Looker She Belongs To Me Sea Cruise March 24, 2007 - Riverside Ballroom - Green Bay, Wisconsin **NEW** March 28, 2007— Shadowbox Columbus, Ohio April 21, 2007 - Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts - Patchogue, NY - tickets on sale tomorrow - Thursday **NEW** April 28,2007—Club 66 Edgewood, Maryland August 3, 2007 - Lake Arrowhead Village Concert Series - Lake Arrowhead, CA **NEW** August 11, 2007, Art in the Park Concert Series, Manhattan, KS August 27, 2007—Great Rock and Roll Festival UK August 28, 2007— Scotland venue TBA Summer UK Tour November 10, 2007— TBA Butlins Bognor Regis UK January 04, 2007 - Peter Tork and Shoe Suede Blues would like to say thanks and send best wishes to their friend John Palmer who will be leaving SSB to pursue other projects. John was SSB's drummer for many years and brought with him a great energy and enthusiasm. The band would also like to thank John for his great contribution to Cambria Hotel. The band would like to announce that Jeff Olson will begin his stint as drummer with Peter Tork and SSB at the January 25 show in Maynard, MA and then head out with the band on their UK Tour. Jeff has also toured and recorded with David Benoit among others and is a well respected studio and touring professional
Visit Peter at www.petertork.com for all the news
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Monkee Shines
Micky News 4/2/07
Vern Riffe Center For The Arts 940 Second Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 740-351-3600
Micky and Coco
January 30, 2007 Sixties pop star Micky Dolenz also performed, along with country star Larry Gatlin, singer-songwriter Kate Taylor, sixties favorites The Tokens and the team of Mark Pender and Richie “La Bamba� Rosenberg.
February 23, 2007: MONKEE SIGHTING: Micky Dolenz of The Monkees fame was in Los Altos Hills this weekend with his wife, Donna, for the opening of Foothill Music Theatre's production of ``Pippin,'' which runs through March 11 at The Playhouse at Foothill College. Dolenz came to opening night because his sister, San Jose resident Coco Dolenz, has a lead role as Berthe. Micky Dolenz, who has his own connection to the Stephen Schwartz musical -- he played the role of Charlemagne in a national tour last year -- stuck around after to take pictures with the local cast and director Jay Manley. Week of February 25, 2007: Head was aired on Showtime and given a 3 star rating.
Visit Micky at www.mickydolenz.com for more 57
Monkee Shines
David News Sun 03/11/07 Vancouver, BC Private Engagement
Sat 06/23/07 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun
Sat 05/05/07 Ocean City, MD Inlet Beach
Sun 06/24/07 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun
Fri 05/11/07 Lake Buena Vista, FL Disney World
Sat 07/07/07 Ocean Grove, NJ Great Auditorium
Sat 05/12/07 Lake Buena Vista, FL Disney World
Sat 12/08/07 Findlay, OH Central Auditorium
Sun 05/13/07 Lake Buena Vista, FL Disney World Sat 02/16/08 Elgin, IL Hemmens Cultural Center
Mon 05/14/07 Lake Buena Vista, FL Disney World Tue 05/15/07 Lake Buena Vista, FL Disney World
There’s a new girl kicking up her heels in the Jones clan. On February 8th, 2007 Whiskey B. Jones gave birth to a filly David named Jessica Pacheco. According to Steve Smith, who helps take care of the horses, the colt had some problems at birth and hurt her hip but mare and foal are doing well now. According to Mr. Smith, Indiantown Jones got some fractures while running at Gulfstream Park and will most likely be finished racing. But Billy, Devon and T.E are trainning up real good.
Visit www.davyjones.net for the latest news! 58
Monkee Shines
Mike News
Nez is spending a lot of his time working on the re-opening of VR3D, an invitation-only 3D online community. He's also been working on various projects in his studio in Northern California, including re-mastering "The Prison". His latest album "Rays", is now available on CD. It's downloadable at and Rhapsody. A special Limited Edition Rays CD was made available on November 28, 2005, but sold out in a few hours. In December 2006 Michael is featured in Swindle Magazine's First Annual Icons Issue. You can hear him on Radio New Zealand's Kim Hill Show, recorded December 2, 2006. He had a September 2006 interview with Will Harris for Bullz-Eye. In May 2006 he had an interview in the Irish Times and in The Scotsman. He also had an April 2006 interview in Wired. There's an article about him at the BBC News.
Nez ' music is available to hear and download on Rhapsody, Napster, iTunes, Sony Connect, Walmart, MSN Music and Virgin Digital.
Visit www.videoranch.com for the latest on Nez
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Monkee Shines
RENINO, GERALD "JERRY"
Alfred and Marjorie Renino of White Plains, New York, four brothers; Alfred Renino, Jr., of Hartsdale, New York; Christopher Renino and wife Susan Marshall and their son Nick of Manhattan and Pawling, New York; Thomas Renino of Bellingham, Washington; Gregory Renino and wife Stephanie, and their children Danielle and Jonathan of Fishkill, New York; and a sister, Barbara Robertson and finance Garth James of Valhalla, New York; uncle Robert and aunt Joan Renino of LaGrangeville; uncle John and aunt Edna Herrmann of Los Angeles; and cousins Laura Vivino (Jerry) and daughters ,Natalia and Antonia Vivino; Robert (Sally) Renino and son Ben Robert Renino; Gina Herrmann Westlund (Michael) and daughter Lena and son Rafael Westlund. Visiting hours at McMahon, Lyon & Hartnett Funeral Home, on Monday, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM. There will be a service at the Funeral Home on Tuesday, 11 AM, followed by burial at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. MCMAHON, LYON & HARTNETT FUNERAL HOME, INC. 491 Mamaroneck Ave. White Plains (914) 949-7777
March 04, 2007 Gerald "Jerry" Renino died Thursday, March 1, 2007, at home in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He was born in White Plains, New York on October 3, 1958. He graduated from White Plains High School and studied music at SUNY Oswego and CUNY Hunter College. He was the principal bassoonist at CUNY Hunter College, The White Plains Pops Band and the Yonkers Civic Philharmonic Orchestra. He and clarinetist brother Al, performed duets at Broadway venues for the Brunch Crowd. Although he was a classical bassoonist, Jerry made his principal living as a bass guitarist and vocalist. He toured the world as the Music Director of the Monkees; and separately with Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, Peter Noone and Davy Jones. For a number of years he was a popular counselor at the annual Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp, and was featured in a two-hour special about the camp that aired on A&E. He performed with a number of local orchestras and bands, as well as Gary US Bonds, The Tokens, The Crystals, The Shangrilas, The Coasters, Billy J. Kramer, The Drifters, Freddy Cannon, Leslie Gore, Lou Christie, Tommy Roe, Gene Chandler, and was principal bass guitarist in the touring company of "Grease." His television appearances included NBC's Tonight Show with Jay Leno and The Today Show; ABC Good Morning America, Access Hollywood, The Jerry Lewis Telethon, Nashville Now Prime Time Country, The Rosie O'Donnell Show, Sally Jessie Rafael, Robin Leach New York At Night, Good Morning Asahi (Japanese TV), Miss Teen USA Pageant, and The Clint Holmes Show. He is survived by his parents,
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