Monkee Shines Issue 83 Spring 2013 by The Purple Flower Gang

Monkee Shines

Issue 83 Spring 2013 David’s Mentor Passes

David T. Jones memorial Convention Possible Monkees Tour 2013

In this issue: Goodbye Basil Shindig’s Monkee Tribute Nobody Can Fill His Shoes Plans for 2013 History with a Po[ Star Monkees Convention X 2

Thanks for the Ride Peter News Micky News Celebrating 25 years Mike News Monkee Shines The BeavertownOfMemorial 2013 Michael Nesmith: I Am Not That! More than a Monkee And more…..

Editor: Cindy Bryant With a little help from my friends, The PFG Road Crew, “the crazy lot!” An Official Monkees Fan Club Monkeeing Around Since 1987

Monkee Shines

In this issue Letter from the Editor................. 3 Videos for Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Horses ......... 4 Nobody Can Fill His Shoes ........ 5 Shindigâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Monkee Tribute .......... 6 Monkees Plan 2013 Tour............ 7 Goodbye For Now ..................... 8 History With A Po Star ............ 10 Monkees Convention 2013 ....... 11 A Bittersweet Convention ........ 16 Thanks For The Ride................ 18 Peter News .............................. 23 Micky News ............................ 24 David News ............................. 25 Team PFG ............................... 28 Mike Nesmith: I AM Not That . 31 Mike News .............................. 35 More Than A Monkee .............. 36 Monkees App .......................... 39 A Card from Hazel ................... 40 Meet Al Bigley ........................ 41 Forever In MY Heart................ 42

Membership dues are $15 (Us

and Canada) and $20 (overseas).. Ads are $30 for a full page and $15 for a quarter page. Money orders preferred, cash at own risk. Make all payments payable to Cindy Bryant NOT the PFG. Checks made out to the PFG will be returned. Mail to Cindy Bryant, 903 East 2nd Street 1A, Muscatine, Iowa 52761.

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 everyone who made this newsletter possible: make it all so much fun! Bonnie Borgh, Dawn Van Meter Hoffman, Colleen Johnson, Janet Litterio,, Jerri Keele, Jessica Jones, Jody Proetta, David Levin, Becca Nelson, Marie Gibson, Rick Schwinden, Carolyn Boyce, Al Bigley, Amy Hilliard, Hazel, and Robert Wilkinson, and David, Micky, Peter, and Mike for making it all so much fun.

Visit us at: www.purpleflowergang.com And email us at: pfg@machlink.com & join the Purple Flower Gang Group on Facebook

The Purple Flower Gang 903 E 2nd Street 1A Muscatine, Iowa 52761 Bonnie Borgh, Janet Litterio, Jerri Keele, David Levin, Becca Nelson, Marie Gibson, Sharon Christine Morgan Ganjei, and Amy Hilliard your memberships have been extended one issue to thank you for your contributions to this issue.

Monkee Shines is printed by Mailboxes & Parcel Depot 2

Monkee Shines

Dear Gang, ow! So much going on!. Lots on the 2013 Monkee Convention in this issue. Word is another convention is in the works for 2013 and Beverley Barber (David’s niece) is planning one for Manchester. We will keep you posted as things develop. Mike has been on the road solo and we have a report on that as well. It sounds like things are going well for Nez and he seems to be enjoying himself on the road. And the remaining Monkees are planning another tour! Check out the news on that and again we will keep you posted as we know the details. David continues to be missed but not forgotten. Beavertown will unveil a statue of David in June at a memorial event. While I can’t be there the PFG will be well represented by TEAM PFG lead by Jody Proetta, All the information including hotels and phone numbers is in this issue. If you plan on attending you will want to meet up with TEAM PFG and join in the fun. Of course all of that will be in the next issue if you aren’t able to make it in person. The facebook page is growing rapidly. We now have 350 people in the group. If you are online come join us. If you have sent stories or photos for the newsletter and they are not in this issue, don’t panic. They still

may appear in a future issue. I am trying to keep the newsletter down to a reasonable size so I don’t have to raise rates any more than they are. And the printer has indicated that it is getting difficult to staple the 60 page issues together….not to mention trying to stuff them in an envelope, Not that I am complaining. We love your participation and hope you will keep contributing to the newsletter. Anyone can find the “news’ online these days but it has always been the personal stories that made the PFG unique and brings us all together. So bring it on! Remember if you submit something for the newsletter and we use it I will extend your membership one issue.. I have a few things I haven’t used yet so don’t panic if your submission hasn’t been used yet. You are our eyes and ears as you attend Monkee events so let us know what you are doing. It is each one’s personal experiences that make the PFG special We want your stories. Remember if you are renewing and don’t want to miss an issue, do it ASAP as I am only ordering as many copies as I need to keep costs down as much as possible. Have a great summer and keep Monkeeing around! Cindy

We will make every effort to publish Monkee Shines on the last week of January, April, July, and October. If for some reason it is going to be delayed I will try to let you know by postcard. As always, if you are unsatisfied with your membership for any reason we will be happy to refund the remainder of your membership dues upon request.

Monkee Shines

Monkee Shines them with bell-bottoms. Or tights and minis. Or whatever else you’re into. They’re soft, shaggy suede, and the colors are absolutely out of sight. Micky’s favorite brown, Davy’s black, Peter’s gold, Mike’s green. You can get them in half sizes from four to nine. And size ten. (No 9 1/2. Sorry.) If there’s no Thom McAn store near you, send us the coupon and we’ll send you a pair. Thom McAn A Division of Melville Shoe Corporation Copyright: 1967 Raybert Productions, Inc. TM Screen Gems Inc. Hey! There’s no Thom McAn store in my neighborhood! I’m sending you a check or money order (no C.O.D.’s, please) for $5.99 plus $.51 mailing and handling. (That’s $6.50, right?) You send me my Monkee Mini Boots. I wear size _____. My favorite color is _____.

NOBODY CAN FILL HIS SHOES By Bonnie Borgh

his advertisement was found in the September 1967 issue of Tiger Beat Magazine. It reads:

Monkee Mini Boots Thom McAn Shoes 67 Millbrooke St., Worcester, Mass. 01606

For $5.99 you can have the Monkees at your feet.

Name ____________________ Address __________________ City _____State ____ Zip Code

Get our new Monkee Mini Boots, and you’ve got it made. They’re just about the grooviest thing around. Wear

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SHiNDiG’s Monkee Tribute By Janet Litterio

can remember talking with David on several occasions a few years back when he was in Chicagoland. One topic I would mention to him from time to time was how all encompassing going to his shows are. Of course, the main and best reason was to see and hear him, but I, like so many other fans, have made friendships because of this… friendships with people that we would not have met if it hadn’t been for our mutual musical tastes. As I would tell David about this, he would listen, smile, nod and then I would get the hand wave…so I was never sure that he really “got” what I, and so many others, experienced thanks to him. I hope he’s looking down from heaven and sees this now. At any rate, here’s a little story of what happened a few weeks ago when going out with some “Monkee” friends.

ting during their break. I thanked him for playing a Monkee’s tune. Oh, you like The Monkees?? We all started chiming in, he probably was sorry he asked. Davy played in Chicago on numerous occasions, and we proudly said that on 3 of those occasions, he played in nearby Lockport and we were the people that organized and hosted those shows. He remembered that and we all shared stories until he had to change attire. I see the band coming back from their break wearing…I don’t know how to describe the shirts, other than the double buttoned typical Monkee shirts. One wore a green wool hat—the guitar player. Holy cow, authentic Monkee shirts!!!!! The gal in the band is standing in front of the band with another lady. You know Davy, do the Monkee walk with us. At age 50-something….I finally learned how to do the Monkee walk after a little instruction from Shar. The band started the Monkee’s Theme Song and Monkee walk we did. The dance floor was opened to everyone…what a crowd. After the Theme Song, the drummer—who had been talking with us earlier—started talking about Davy. He told everyone he had been talking with us and what a wonderful person Davy was, and how he played locally on numerous occasions, shared a few stories I shared with him, and how missed he is. We remembered Davy as we hoped he’d be…and knew he was just what we’d hoped.

One friend we met actually lives in the next town. We met him during the time of our Lockport shows with David and have become friends with him and his friends. We all often go to concerts together, and get together aside from that. A few weeks ago we went to see a local 60’s band perform. They are quite good I might add. If you live in Chicagoland, go see SHiNDiG---you won’t be disappointed. They play the usual spots that local bands do. So we’re all there, enjoying the music, because after all—music mingles souls. At the end of their second set, they played “Little Bit Me, Little Bit You.” Wow…this is a GREAT rendition. We settle in back at our seats and one of the band members comes over and starts chat-

The band played several of their hits, and ended with “Daydream Believer.” At the end of that song, our

Monkee Shines group held our hands up and said here’s to Davy. Right after that…..suddenly we hear popping behind us-we were right in front of the band. We turn around, and the band is suddenly in the dark, their sign is no longer illuminated and their mics

are dead-a circuit must have blown. They’re all looking at each other in disbelief, asking what’s going on… what happened. We/our group looked at each other, smiled, and somehow we knew what happened. Maybe David finally “got it.”

he Monkees are planning to perform a tour of the USA this summer. The plans are to play markets they missed last year and play twice as many dates. (Florida and Texas????)

Now is the time to be contacting local venues and requesting that they book the Monkees. Remind them that last year’s tour was a sell out and fans are anxious to see them in your area,

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Goodbye for now, Basil . . . Posted on Facebook by Jessica Jones

ven when Dad was in his 60's and Basil in his 80's they still got up to antics with the horses. Basil remained the Governor and Dad the apprentice through out their lives together! One day Dad took Basil up to the stables and while they were there Dad asked Basil's advice about a difficulty he was having with a youngster. Basil's advice was that the young horse needed to " Go Back to Basics " as we say in the horse world. Basil prescribed long reining for the flighty mare which involves 2 long ropes being set either side of the horse from the bridle and you drive them from behind using the ropes gently to guide them.

effect ) David you need to do it like this . . ." With that the young mare they were handling decided that these 2 little men had pushed her too far and took off at full gallop! Basil kept hold of the reins and was dragged along behind her like a balloon in the Breeze . . .Dad shot after them shouting " Basil Let go you bloody fool ". Basil who had only become more stubborn in the last 50 years refused to let go until the mare gave in and she dragged him around the 3 acre field. She finally stopped and Dad went rushing over to his Governor who was covered in Florida dust and had a bloody nose and fat lip and much to Dad's relief nothing more serious!

Dad got out the long reins and attached them to the mare and he attempted to begin the training under Basil's supervision. The little mare had clearly never had the basics and was rather confused by the process. Dad tried his best and Basil continued to shout instructions at Dad from the side-lines apparently to no avail. Basil became frustrated by Dad's " Technique " and resumed his " Governor " role as he would have done when Dad first became his 13 year old apprentice over 50 years before . . .

Basil who was still lying prostrate in the dirt clinging to the reins looked up at Dad and said " Now that's how you long rein a horse David ". Dad fell to the floor laughing till tears streamed down his face and then Basil got up like nothing had happened and resumed the long reining lesson all be it with a slight limp! There was an incredible photograph in Basil's room of him as a young man sitting on a huge horse that was rearing right up into the air .

He stomped over to Dad snatched the reins and said " For Goodness Sakes (or words to that

Monkee Shines . .I think Basil would like to be remembered like this!

own and come back to the stables with Basil.

God Bless Basil for taking my Dad in when he was a little 13 year old boy grieving for his mother. Learning to ride and being with the horses helped to heal Dad and empowered him to have the confidence he needed to go out into the world let his talent shine . Dad did not want to leave the stables but Basil told him he had to go and use his talent and one day he could buy horses of his

Basil had the instinct to recognise Dad's talent even when he was just a little boy in Newmarket which is a far cry from the bright lights of Hollywood! He gave Dad the wings he needed to fly and set him up with his first role on Broadway which led to his career in the Monkees. Every Daydream Believer out there has a lot to thank Basil for. May he rest in Peace x x x

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History with a pop star! By Bonnie Borgh

his article from the Accrington Observer (March 21st, 1989) was kindly sent to us from our special foreign correspondent, Hazel Wilkinson. History lessons at St. Mary Magdalen’s Primary School, Devonshire Street, Accrington, are proving to be very interesting and entertaining. During this term junior children in Miss Julie Dakin’s class have been learning all about the Sixties. They have been interviewing members of staff and asking questions about dress, games, TV programmes, lessons and pop groups of the Sixties. On Comic Relief Day they watched Richard Madeley on TV interview the Sixties’ pop group The Monkees. Little did they realise then that one of the group would walk into school complete with red nose a few hours later! Davy Jones, one of the group, had called to collect his sister, Hazel Wilkinson, a member of staff at the school. The children were amazed to see 10

the pop star walk into their classroom but not as excited as their mums waiting to collect their children who recognized their idol of the Sixties. Last Tuesday Mrs. Wilkinson gave a talk about the Monkees, taking in books, records and memorabilia. On Wednesday there was a Sixties day. Staff and children dressed in Sixties style and lessons were like they were in the Sixties. Mr. Jonathan Hewitt, headmaster, doesn’t want the children to think history is stuffy and boring. It certainly isn’t at St. Mary Magdalen’s.

Monkee Shines

Monkees Convention 2013 By Jody Proetta

efore we had a chance to Jessica, Talia, Jody Proetta, Sarah, and Annabel say goodbye, he quietly at the Monkees Convention. All photos in this disappeared into the night. article courtesy of Jody Proetta. He left behind a part of him that lives in all of our hearts. His laughter and smile, a memory always alive, comforting us with its' light". Jody Proetta My excitement precluding the Monkee Convention began in the summer of 2012. As soon as I heard the great news about the convention, especially the fact that it was going to be a memorial for Davy Jones, I convinced my husband that we had to get tickets and the motel room right away. "It'll be sold out if we wait!!!!" It was to be my first Monkee Convention ever. I had no idea what to expect. Well, we bought the VIP tickets for all three days, and I was more than willing to give up my anniversary present, birthday and Christmas present, AND Valentines Day presents, for this convention. Well, I traded in all those presents for the convention, and it was worth it. I was more than pleasantly surprised.

self. A big Jones girl. My approach was, "Hi. My name is Jody, do you belong to any groups? I am part of the Purple Flower Gang." A lot of the fans there were sole practitioners, and DAVY fans. And they were more than willing to tell wonderful stories about Mr. Jones. One lovely woman told me that each concert she went to, and she waited a year or two between concerts due to family and work commitments, Davy remembered that she had a sick son, and never forgot her name, and never forgot her son's name. Each time, he made it his priority to ask her about her son, and about how she was holding up taking care of him. He even gave her a free cd, signed by him, on one occasion to give to her son. Another woman told me a story about how they saw him at a bar and grill after a concert, and he went up to them because he recognized them from the audience and chatted with them at their table for a while before going back to his own table, where his band was waiting for

The thing that impressed me THE MOST about the convention, was the LOVE that radiated the convention atmosphere----LOVE for David T. Jones. I made it my life's journey at the convention to find as many facebook friends as I could--especially PFG people. I did not find too many of us, but, every person I talked to was a JONES person. You know the old saying---"Marsha, Marsha, Marsha"!!--well, all I heard all weekend from people I approached, was "Davy, Davy, Davy" and I did not mind because I am a Jones girl my-

Monkee Shines him. Many more people told me stories about how he remembered their names from previous meet and greets, and autograph signings, and their family stories. He always asked about sick family members, and he remembered one woman's son was stationed in a war zone, and he told her he prayed for her son's safe return home. A female fan told me she was on a cruise that David was on, and he was more than happy to be disturbed when he was relaxing in one of the lounge chairs, to sign autographs for fans. He never acted like he would rather not be bothered. "He walked among us like a regular person, and more than once I got weak in my knees" were her exact words. (Don't know how my knees would have held up either). Many of these people told me their stories with tears in their eyes, because, they felt like they lost a friend. I think that David felt his fans were part of an extended family of friends. And he conveyed that when he interacted with his fans. This was not a celebrity to many of these people, this was a hero.

was to me first off ---it was hearing Davy stories. I could have just sat down with all of these people and listened to each one's own experience with this special man, but there was a lot to see and of course that would have been impossible so here goes with the rest of this very fun time. When you purchased VIP tickets, you were able to reserve a seat in the large conference room starting at 12 noon. Once you placed your red strip of paper on your seat, it was yours all day. You were free to leave the room and get food, or visit the Vendor room across the hall, and return to your same seat. The line for the VIP ticket holders began pretty early in the morning and of course, first ones on line got to reserve front row seats. My time on line was the time I met and spoke with all of the people about their experiences with David. I worked the line looking for friends and experienced all the beautiful stories. There were two main rooms--the large conference room where all of the fabulous entertainment took place, the guests, the Q & A interviews with Pe-

Well, I wanted to let you know what the very special part of the convention

Monkee Shines

ter Tork, Micky Dolenz, Henry Diltz, Deana Martin, etc. listening to the Davy Jones Band, listening to the Monkee Tribute Bands, watching the Broadway Tribute video to Davy (that one made me cry and use about 10 tissues), and the other video tributes to Davy. The other main room was the vendor room where you could purchase mementos---there were hundreds of different pictures of the Monkees on each vendor table-especially many many pictures of Davy. There was a vendor who sold fabulous Monkee charm bracelets, and Davy Jones scarves. Peter Tork was in the vendor room, on the left side when you entered, and Micky Dolenz was on the right side. They had cd's for purchase, and autographed pictures, and you could have your picture taken with them. Deanna Martin had her table, and Butch Patrick, Donna Loren, Shannon, Aviva Maloney, Freddy Monday, Henry Stanford Diltz, Dave Alexander and his wife Jennifer Anne Dawson (a fabulous artist), Arlene Martel, The Blue Meanies, Loose Salute (tribute bands) , The 1910 Fruitgum Company, to name a few. There were Monkee historians on stage in the large

conference room-Gary Strobl, Brad Waddell and Fred Velez giving panel discussions. You could purchase a program in the lobby of the motel in beginning at 6pm on Friday, the first night of the conference. The program book was $25.00 and not only was a map/itinerary of the conference all weekend, but each guest's story about his/her relationship with Davy and the Monkees, and some lovely pictures. There was a lovely candle lit ceremony on Friday night by Davy's 4 daughters, Talia, Sarah, Jessica and Annabel as part of the opening ceremony. Jessica talked briefly about her dad and his cd "Let Them Be Little". The cd was completed not long before he passed away and she shared with us what took place the day her dad visited her with his completed cd. He shared with her that he found a piece of paper in the jacket of the cd and he had no idea how it had gotten there. Written on this paper was the poem that became a permanent part of the cd jacket. He had read it to Jessica that day. "Do not stand at my grave and weep. I am not there. I do

Monkee Shines not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain: I am the gentle autumn's rain. When you awaken in the morning's hush, I am the swift uplifting rush, of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft star that shines at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not die." There were not too many dry eyes after Jessica read that poem. It was not too long after the cd was made, that David passed away. The Jones girls had their table for DJEMF set up in the vendor hall. It was so wonderful meeting these beautiful and gracious girls. They were all personable, kind, beautiful, and their father's warmth and charm was infused into each and every one of them. You could see David in their eyes, and their smiles. They had his wide and happy smile without a doubt. And their love for each other was evident. I also had the pleasure of meeting in person, Beverley Barber, David's niece. She is beautiful and warm as well!! You can also see traces of her uncle's charm and outgoingness in this lovely woman!! I could also see there was some of David's sense of humor in Beverley. He had a very special and loving family!! There was a private meet and greet with the Jones girls on Friday and Saturday night. They each autographed a picture of them with their father. They were personable and were willing to answer questions you had with them. Someone asked them what it was like having Davy Jones as their father. They all answered that he was like any other dad. Very caring, and fatherly, and protective and strict when he had to be. He was also a lot of fun, they said, and they all became very able horsewomen. Very sweet. One of his daughters said that when they were older, he had a habit of showing up at their homes unannounced. He

was on tour a lot, and grabbed every opportunity that he could to visit with his daughters. One of his daughters said that she arrived home with her boyfriend one day, and her dad was sitting on her couch. They all laughed. Once again, very sweet, Davy. David Cassidy had arrived on Sunday, and sat on the stage in the large conference room to discuss his relationship with Davy. He had said that he was a "big fan of the Monkees", and he appreciated the enormous talent the Monkees had, each and every one of them. He said that David's love of horses started after his mom died, and it helped him handle his grief, and heal. DC also said that "the only thing of really true value is each other", and "this really becomes so apparent to me now", and "paying tribute to Davy Jones is a blessed thing for me". DC also said that he loved Davy, and was very happy to have a connection with him. Micky and Peter joined him on stage, and they embraced each other and you could tell, that these three men were missing the littlest and biggest Monkee. The four Jones girls also went up to the stage and presented DC with their DJEMF tee shirt. There were many tender, bitter sweet moments throughout the weekend. Everyone was still hurting, missing Davy and wishing he could have been there. But there is strength in numbers, and we helped each other along. And in this case, not only strength in numbers, but lots of love. Christian Nesmith and Circe Link performed over the weekend, and they were very, very talented. I enjoyed all of the talented performers, musicians over this very special weekend. Saturday night was a night like no other. It was like sitting at a Monkees concert. That was some night. The ALL

Monkee Shines STAR TRIBUTE TO THE 60's included, Micky, Peter, Deanna Martin, Ron Dante, Gary DeCarlo, 1910 Fruitgum Company, Freddy Monday, Circe Link, Christian Nesmith, Robbie Rist, Donna Loren, Geri Reischl, Pat Horgan, The Characters, The Monkees Touring Band, and members of The Davy Jones Band. Very very well done.

signed by both Freddy, and Davy. Being a musician myself, I love all musical instruments so the tambourine was special right off because Davy used it, and I love the sound of tambourines, and it was signed by Davy and Freddy. I loved that video. I did not say anything to my husband about wanting it, but, he later told me he knew I wanted it because I had "stars" in my eyes when the auctioneer held it up. Anyway, it was pretty exciting when it came time for the tambourine to be auctioned off. (They saved the best for last). It was between my husband and a woman sitting behind us. "$600", $625, $700, $725, $750, ". And so forth. I almost had a coronary. My husband gave me no warning that he was going to bid on this item. It took me by complete surprise. And when my husband won it, I started crying. I got to take a little piece of David home with me that day. I held the tambourine to my heart for a long time after Freddy gave it to me from the stage. My husband the hero-thank you baby, for taking me to a very wonderful weekend of Monkee and Davy love, and for buying me something to treasure and add to my fabulous memories of David.

Another highlight of the convention was meeting PFG friends David Levin, Roxanne Kaplan, and Jeanne Simpson. They had arrived Saturday evening, and it is so exciting to put a face with people who you consider friends and share something with. We did not have a long time together, but, the time we did have was very nice. They are all VERY lovely people! On Saturday night, after the concert was over, people were sitting in the lobby of the Sheraton. The Blue Meanies joined them and starting strumming their guitars, to Monkee tunes. Fans starting singing. Before you knew it, there were many more joining them. There was a large singa-long in the lobby and two of the Jones girls joined them. My husband and I were only there for part of it, but, it went on until about 2:30 in the morning, possibly later. I wish I had been there for Daydream Believer.

Well, my first Monkee Convention was a blast. I loved it. The vendor room was always pretty crowded, and if you were a Davy and Monkee lover, a dream come true. You could spend all day in there just walking from table to table meeting fabulous people who worked with the Monkees, or starred in one of the Monkee episodes, or were artists creating beautiful paintings of the boys, or Monkee memorabilia collectors selling their wares, or buying items from the Jones girls to help DJEMF, or meeting and having your picture taken with Peter, or Micky, or Deana, or any of the other famous people. The Davy Jones

Well, guess what. My wonderful husband backed out on our deal. The last day of this very wonderful convention, gave me one of the best presents I could ever receive. It equaled my birthday, Christmas, Valentines Day, and our anniversary. There was an auction for the DJEMF. Signed concert tickets by Davy, signed shirts, albums, etc. The last item to be auctioned off was Davy's tambourine that he used in Freddy Monday's video, "I want to be your Davy Jones". The tambourine was

Monkee Shines band members were very personable and more than happy to chat with you. I had a blast just looking at all of the pictures of David. It was a wonderful event, and no one forgot the

most important person of the convention----David T. Jones. They did a great job for this very special man. The smallest, but, the BIGGEST Monkee.

Jody and the Jones girls and Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tambourine.

Bittersweet Convention

By David Levin

fter waiting almost 27 years since the last official Monkees convention, that I wasn't able to attend; I was thrilled to be able to make it to the 2013 con. Bittersweet, as it was, to honor the late great David Thomas Jones. To skip ahead for a moment;early in the day I was in the hallway talking to some people when I heard audio of a Davy solo concert. The sound clarity

was so clear, you almost thought David was there. Of course, his spirit was indeed there! My Mom was supposed to go originally, but given her health, we knew that it would be too long a day for her. My daughter went in her place and I'm glad that she did! She had a great time, as did I! We met many wonderful and sweet Facebook friends through the day.

Monkee Shines That day (all day!) was Saturday. he was nice to her, then added that Lauren, my daughter, and I first met he said, "It's funny how you told your up with Beverley, David's niece who Dad to take his jacket off" before we was as humble and sweet as they took a pic. come! She posed for pics with us and even kept a watch over my phone The Q+A's were fun. We saw the charging by the table with David's Brady "kids" and Peter's. The ignodaughters running for the equine rant emcee/host, Charles Rosenay fund. Thanks to charging my cell batwas an ignorant dope (during Peter's tery (through Beverley!), I was able to Q+A) to claim suddenly that Mike was have pics and video taken with Da- there. Very unprofessional! Anyway, vid's sweet, awesome daughters. we saw Circe Link (met her later, a Lauren and I met (or should I say, sweetheart!) and the finale at night saw) Peter and he signed an awewith Peter and Micky separately and some pic that someone in the Kestogether, performing. Both put on a wick theater crowd took of Michael, short, but great performance. Peter, Micky and I, with David approving above. Peter was very cool with All in all, we had a wonderful time at us. He signed the picture placing arthe convention! Lauren and I met rows at my head and his. Awesome! many awesome people along the Later on, we saw Micky who signed way! my copy of Micky's latest cd to Lauren. He also signed the same pic that Peter had. My hope is to have Mike sign it in April, at the meet and greet I David and Lauren Levin and Micky at the should be able to attend! Can't wait! Convention Through the day, we saw David Alexander, who went out of his way to say hi to us! He said that he watches all of our videos and to, "Keep it up!" What a great guy! It was tough to miss live performances of various people in the main room, but you can't be in two places at the same time. Back to Micky, who was pretty cool, while his "people" at the table were a little rude. I asked Lauren earlier today what she remembers about meeting Micky (it was her first time) and she said

Monkee Shines

Thanx For The Ride By Sharon Christine Morgan Ganjei

have been a Monkees fan since I was 12 years old. I have gone to see them and support them in concerts, solo shows, conventions, plays, book signings, and everything in between. The problem I always face is that I am from a small town in central Alabama, Wetumpka by name. This means I have spent more time in cars and planes getting to venues than actually enjoying the shows. This is especially true when it comes to Michael Nesmith. Seeing Mike usually involves a flight to the west coast, such as the one I took last November when the Monkees played Cupertino. I expected nothing different when Papa Nez started hinting at a spring solo tour earlier this year.

would be seeing the show. Could it get any better?

When Nez first posted about the spring tour on FaceBook, I wondered if he could possibly be planning a visit to Atlanta or Texas. Did I dare to hope that I would get a chance to see him? Then, Mike named the cities. The top of the list was Nashville, TN. I couldn't believe it- a simple 4 hour drive. Once the venues were revealed, it was discovered that the Franklin Theatre, in the town of Franklin just south of Nashville, would be the place.

The FaceBook post from Nesmith came late in the evening. I had an inkling this meant the passes would go on sale overnight. A friend agreed to keep watch with me over the internet. We had a virtual slumber party, chatting the night away on FaceBook, and checking email for the special link every 5-10 minutes. At 3am central time, the email hit. I clicked the link and scored one of the 25 passes for the Franklin Theatre. My husband had already decided he would sit the meet and greet out, giving someone else a chance to purchase one.

As time went on, Nez threw out a bigger surprise: He was going to do meet and greets at each venue. Mike decided to make available only 25 passes at each tour stop. These passes would be sold through Video Ranch, Mike's website. Michael was very cryptic in his FaceBook post about the procedure for purchasing the passes. Video Ranch would send an email at some point the day after the post to all those who preregistered. This email would contain a link to the page from which passes could be purchased. For once, being a night owl was about to pay off.

I watched both Nesmith's FaceBook profile and the Franklin Theatre's web page closely for ticket sale information. When the on-sale date and time were announced, I made sure I'd be sitting in front of the computer at the very moment. I probably wore out the refresh button on my poor laptop during the last few minutes before the tickets went on sale. It paid off. I was able to secure 2 seats at table 1, right in front of the stage. The small venue was sold out in less than 2 hours. I was elated to be one of the few who

When the date arrived, my husband and I hopped in the car and drove the 4 short hours to Franklin, TN. We met up with a group of fellow Monkees fans for dinner before the show. Then, it was time to pick up passes at the theater. I had been told via an email from Video Ranch to present my I.D. at the box office an hour before show time to receive my meet and greet

Monkee Shines pass. The pass turned out to be a bracelet made from a metallic fabric ribbon the color of Nesmith's Jimmy Choo shoes from the Monkees 2012 tour. The bracelet was emblazoned with the words “Michael Nesmith”. My husband slipped it on my wrist and tightened the clasp. We then had to wait for the venue to open.

Soon, the lights dimmed and a voice came over the house speakers to announce that photography was not allowed during the show. I was disappointed, but knew some braver soul than I would sneak a few and post them online. After the announcement, Mike's band took the stage.

As we waited for the doors to open, a crowd began to gather outside the theater. I overheard one of the ladies in the crowd mention The Purple Flower Gang. I tapped the lady on the shoulder and asked if she were a member. It turned out the lady was Lisa Peek. It was a brief but awesome meeting. The doors opened and we were pressed inside.

The band consisted of Boh Cooper on keys; Chris Scruggs on guitar, steel, and mandolin; Paul Leim on drums, and Joe Chemay on bass. Once they were onstage, the band just kind of looked at each other and shrugged. They waved. Paul did funny things with his drumsticks. They struck a note here and there. It seemed as if Papa Nez must have gotten lost backstage and the band didn't know what to do about it. Perhaps this is to be the opening at every venue? Only time will tell. After a few minutes, a smile spread over the faces in the band and Michael Nesmith was announced.

Once I was inside, I went straight to the merchandise table. For sale was a black t-shirt that had also been used for the UK tour Mike did last year, as well as several cds and other items from Video Ranch. I purchased the shirt, as did most people. It was sold out in most sizes before everyone made it inside the theater.

Mike walked onto the stage with his 12 string guitar. He was dressed in black with a deep red tie. His shoes, instead of being sparkly silver, were also black. His white hair shone under the lights. The crowd applauded. Nesmith went straight into “Papa Gene's Blues”. Mike's voice wavered a couple of times. I thought he appeared nervous, not quite sure of himself. The song ended to great applause. Mike explained that the song we had just heard was written for no one in particular and was one of the first songs he had ever written. He said we would hear songs from his 50 year career that would bring us up to date for things he is working on now. Mike further explained that songs are the soundtrack to little vignettes in his head. He would describe each scene for us before the song:

I took my seat in the front of the stage and looked around. I was just left of center stage. Sitting next to me were a couple of ladies I have seen at Monkees concerts all over the country, but had never met. We had an interesting chat about all the places we had seen one another. I was also regaled with stories of shows they had seen during the very first Monkees tour. It was a very pleasant way to pass the time before the show. My husband passed the time by playing with the internet on his phone. While looking for wi-fi spots to connect to, he stumbled across a strong signal named “Michael Nesmith”. I guess Papa Nez was passing the time online as well.

Monkee Shines Propinquity- A couple of friends that are occasional lovers are doing dishes after dinner in her apartment. The guy notices her hands as she is doing the dishes and says these words. Tomorrow and Me- A guy gets the brush off in a parking lot. The girl drives off in one direction, the guy in the other. Different Drum- A couple sits at a Parisian cafe. The woman wants to be a mother. The man wants to be a lover. Joanne and Silver Moon- A young woman sits with her slightly older lover in the moonlight. She whispers her first romantic non-truths before being called back to the house by her father. The lover walks away. Some of Shelly's Blues- A wife and mother looks out her window to see that all the houses look the same. She feels trapped and wants to escape. Her husband holds her and tells her these words. Rio and Casablanca Moonlight- A man sits in a movie palace in the 30s and dreams of where life could take him after the movie ends. Grand Ennui- In the late 60s a woman is driving a slightly drunk man home from a party in a new red Ferrari. Cruisin'- The same story as the video. Lucy and Ramona were just 2 girls found at a local roller rink while Sunset Sam was found in a local bar. Rays- An astronaut in the Space Station looks out across the universe. Life The Unsuspecting Captive, Marie's Theme, and Lamppost- The story told in The Prison. Laugh Kills Lonesome- Inspired by the painting by Charles Marion Russell of cowboys around a campfire laughing.

Somewhere around Tomorrow and Me, Nez began to visually relax. His voice warmed and improved throughout the set list. He began to smile, a reflection of the genuine enjoyment he was feeling sharing his words and visions with the audience. Those smiles lit up his face and the room. Nez also started getting into the groove of the music. By the time he hit Grand Ennui, Mike was rocking the house. It was electrical. It was also over all too soon. As Laugh Kills Lonesome ended, Mike thanked everyone for coming and said goodnight. He received a standing ovation. A couple of minutes later, Nesmith returned to the stage to perform Thanx For The Ride. Nesmith explained that they had digitally ripped deceased steel player Red Rhodes's steel track from the recording and would play the track along with the live music, thus allowing Red's steel to join in the song. It was unbelievable and Nez was obviously moved. A more perfect song could not have been chosen to sum up what we had experienced. It was as if Nez was telling each of us â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you for the love and support through the years.â&#x20AC;? After Nesmith left the stage and the applause ended, a voice came over the house speakers again. This time the voice thanked everyone for coming. It also asked for people to please exit the theater, unless they had a pass bracelet. In this case, you were asked to please remain seated and await further instruction. My husband said he would try and wait for me in the lobby. I sat and tried to absorb what I had just experienced. In a short while, a gentleman came

Monkee Shines and checked that we all had either bracelets or VIP passes. We were told it would be just another couple of minutes while they secured the lobby. My husband rejoined me. They had asked him in the lobby if he had a bracelet. When he replied that he did not, but that his wife did and pointed me out, he was told he could stay. He thanked them and told security he wouldn't approach Nesmith. After a bit, we were all escorted to the lobby. In the lobby, they had set up a tall cocktail table at the end of the merchandise table. We were told to arrange ourselves in some semblance of a line. I ended up somewhere just after the middle of the group. Mike entered the room announcing, “Hi guys! I'm here!” and waved. He then took his place behind the cocktail table. People were allowed to go to the table alone or as a couple. A ranch hand from Video Ranch made sure the greeters had space alone with Mike. She also took their photos and asked their names. Everyone was very patient and friendly while we waited.

We watched Nez talking to his fans. While we could not hear what was being discussed, we did notice lots of hugs and smiles. We also noticed that when presented with more than 1 Monkees item to sign, Nez would lay out the items and the fan would choose the one he would autograph. The others were left unsigned. So, Nez was standing by the 1 Monkees item and any Nez item rule I had been told about when I purchased the pass. It was soon my turn at the table. The ranch hand asked my name as she let me pass. Papa Nez met me with a handshake and a hug. He then put his arm around my shoulder as we smiled for the camera. He checked with my husband to make sure the photo turned out. Then, he turned to me. I had him sign my Headquarters LP on the Colgems label, previously signed by Davy and Peter. I also had him sign my Wichita Train Whistle Sings LP, my Magnetic South LP, and a gift for a friend. When Mike picked up my Wichita LP, he said rather softly, “Oh! Wow!” That led us to the topic of buying rare LPs for cheap at the Salvation Army. We spoke briefly about my being from Wetumpka, Alabama, and spots in the road. We also talked about my friend who was unable to attend the show and her upcoming birthday.

While we were waiting in line, I noticed a lovely dark haired lady dressed in black running errands for Mike and answering questions. It was none other than Mike's daughter, Jessica. She was circulating through the group, being friendly and helpful. I asked if she would pose for a picture. She said she'd be glad to. She asked my name and introduced herself. When I told her that I knew who she was she said, “Well, I can't just assume everyone knows who I am.” She was so precious. I asked her if there were any plans to add any additional merchandise for the tour. She said there were not, but they were planning on having many more shirts on hand from now on. With a smile, Jessica was bouncing off to get a bottle of water for her dad.

I asked Mike to sign the black tee I had purchased at the venue. He looked at his Sharpies. They were all black. Prepared for this, I handed him my silver pen. He smiled and said, “Well, I can try.” After several deliberate paint brush type strokes, I had a beautifully executed signature across the black fabric. Without thinking, Nez capped the pen and added it to his stash. I told him he could keep it in case it was needed for anyone else. Conscious of the people waiting in

Monkee Shines line, I thanked Nez for the show and his kindness. We hugged again. I gave him a little peck goodbye on the cheek. He smiled and waved as I walked away.

like. Talking to Mike was gentle and easy. It was like being with family you don't see very often. There was no nervousness, no worry. The laugh lines reminded me much of my father. The demeanor was that of an uncle. For those moments, we were family. Thanx for the ride, Papa Nez.

My entire part of the meeting lasted a little less than 10 minutes. I have been asked what the experience was

Sharon with Jessica Nesmith and with Michael Nesmith.

Monkee Shines

By Becca Nelson

belated Birthday wish is in order for Peter who celebrated his 71st birthday February 13!

Monkees” TV show." This is more dates than we've seen out of him in a while so grab those tickets and get out there and enjoy the tunes!

All you Peter fans, get your snoopy dance ready because he's fixing to hit the road for several appearances and may be coming near you!

Peter and his group, Shoe Suede Blues are putting out a new album online called "Step by Step" that he talks about in a new blog posting…

4/26/13 Chiller Theatre, Parsippany, NJ 5/3/13 Buffalo, NY

"It’s been great to see so many of you lately at our various outings, and I’m looking forward to more good times ahead. What with a couple of convention appearances, a solo tour coming up, and some serious blues with my lads in Shoe Suede Blues, I am all revved-up.

5/5/13 NYC 5/6/13 NYC 5/10/13 Concord, NH 5/11/13 Norfolk, CT 5/18/13 Scituate, MA

I’d like to introduce you to our latest disc: “Step by Step.” We’re putting out the album online to start with, and we’ll follow-up with a shrink-wrap version for the collectors shortly. Listen/ Purchase/Download here: http:// petertork.bandcamp.com/ The track “Your Molecular Structure” is available as a FREE download (just click “Buy Now” and enter $0 in the price box. It’s yours! Enjoy).

5/21/13 Alexandria, VA 5/23/13 Stanhope, NJ 5/24/13 Sellersville, PA 5/26/13 Annapolis, MD 6/12/13 Seattle, WA 6/14/13 San Francisco, CA This tour is being called the "In This Generation" Tour and according to examiner.com "The tour shows will include previously unseen photos and footage and unheard songs as Tork discusses his musical career from its beginnings in Greenwich Village and the suggestion by friend Stephen Stills that led him to respond to a newspaper ad for what became “The

Thanks as always for your support at the shows and on The REAL Peter Tork (Offficial) Facebook page. See you on the road. Be good to yourselves and each other ,

Monkee Shines

By Becca Nelson

o start things off, let's wish a happy belated Birthday to our favorite drummer- Micky turned 68 years old on March 8!

If you love Micky, and of course you do or you wouldn't be reading this section, there are several new dates out to catch him in concert! He's got several dates with the Happy Together Tour coming up… 5/17/13 Lac du Flambeau, WI 7/12/13 Osceola, IA 7/13/13 Osceola, IA 8/14/13 Pomona, NY And he also has several new dates out for The World's Greatest Teen Idol's Tour with David Cassidy and Peter Noone… 8/31/13 Snoqualmie, WA 9/10/13 Spencer, IA 9/21/13 Rama, ON 10/3/13 Santa Ynez, CA And he is also scheduled to appear along with Peter at the Chiller Theatre Toy, Model and Film Expo at the Sheraton Hotel in Parsippany, NJ April 26-28. So if you live near by, make sure you grab tickets and then come back and tell the rest of us all about it!

Micky recently made his first appearance with the Teen Idol's Tour at New York's NYCB Theatre to great reviews. Fan Fred Velez described the show…"All three came onstage together with Cassidy acting as the Master of Ceremonies, starting with a great version of the Stray Cats ‘Rock This Town’, then each presented their individual hits to a cheering audience. Micky Dolenz was in amazing voice singing his Monkees hits which included ‘(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone’, ‘That Was Then, This Is Now’ (with the songs’ writer Vance Brescia on guitar as part of the band), ‘She’, ‘Pleasant Valley Sunday’, and along with Noone and Cassidy, led the crowd in an emotional rendition of ‘Daydream Believer…" and added " The Teen Idols 2013 show at Westbury was a great tour starter, all three performers appeared comfortable sharing the stage together and all appeared relaxed and loose, especially Cassidy. The fun extended beyond the stage and into the audience, who expressed their pleasure and enjoyment loudly. During the intermission Peter Noone signed autographs and took photos with fans and after the show both Noone and Micky Dolenz signed autographs and took photos at their respective souvenir booths. The show was fantastic with a lot of energy from all three performers and they were backed by a great band which included members from the bands of each of the main performers. For

Monkee Shines those who will be attending shows during this tour, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all in for a great time!"

some of my friends! :)

Becca :) Micky also recently returned to perform three days at Epcot for the Flower Power concert series, previously headlined by fellow Monkee, Davy Jones.

Congratulations Becca and welcome Dylan! From everyone in the PFG!

It is also reported that Micky was spotted enjoying the show at the back of the audience for Mike's second tour stop in Agoura Hills, CA. And on a side note, I attached a pic of our new Monkees fan in an outfit made by

Monkee Shines

By Cindy Bryant

n June 15th Beavertown will once again celebrate their beloved Monkee and unveil a statue created in honor of David T. Jones. A day long event is planned and Monkee fans from all over will gather for the un-

veiling, PFG members from our facebook page are entering in the bed race which has quickly become a group project and their will be more in the next newsletter about that. So stay tuned! Here’s a little info on the event.

Hotels in the area:

team ready and sign up for the race. I have attached information on the race and how to sign up in this email.

Hi Davy Jones Fans, I imagine that most of you know by now that we are celebrating the life of Davy Jones on June 15, 2013 at the Beavertown carnival grounds at 12:00 p.m. It will be a memorable event with the unveiling of the life size statue of Davy Jones by Chuck Lamark, music coordinated by David Alexander and much more. Once again Michael Shoenfelt will be organizing the wonderful event and you can find more information and updates on his Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/ events/340026162768990/34716613 8721659/? notif_t=plan_mall_activity The Beavertown Recue Fire Company will be serving food during the event. I have attached information on hotels and motels in the area to this email. There is also another fun event that day that you won’t want to miss. It is a bed race, scheduled for 5 P.M. at the Beaver Springs Dragway. The image of Davy riding on a bed with the Monkees during the opening montage of the television show sparked the idea for the bed race. There will be a Davy Jones Memorial Trophy given to the team that wins the race so get a bed and

I’m going to be selling candy bars for this event also and will be donating part of the proceeds to both the bronzing of the statue and the Beavertown Historical Society. Again this year the cost will be $4.00 each plus shipping and handling if not picked up at the event. The candy bars will have a photo of the of the Davy Jones statue on it and they will be numbered again this year.

Ordering information: If you would like to place an order please contact me by emailing me at candy70@ptd.net and putting DAVY JONES in the subject line. The bars will not be available until June 15 and can be picked up at the event or mailed to you if you are unable to attend. The wrapper will be wrapped around a Hershey candy bar or a keepsake (Fake) bar so please let me know which you would prefer. Please keep in mind that the weather will be hot during June and there will be an extra cost to ship chocolate in the summer.

Monkee Shines Please email your name, address, phone number, how many Davy Jones candy bars you want and if you want a keepsake or Hershey candy bar. Also let me know if you are picking them up at the event on June 15 or if I’m shipping the bars to you.

cate that you want the bars shipped to you I will send you a PayPal invoice. PLEASE NOTE! I will not be billing anyone through PayPal until after the June 15 event if I’m shipping the bars to you. The number on the bars you receive will depend on when I receive your order so get your order in soon if you want a low number.

Price & Shipping Information The costs of the bars are $4.00 each. Shipping and handling will apply to all orders to be shipped and will be determined at time of sale depending on where and how they are being shipped. The payment for the Davy Jones bars will be made through PayPal only if not picking them up at the event. You do not need an account with PayPal to pay for your purchase. When you place your order and indi-

Thanks, Karen L. Burns 217 South Schrader Street Beavertown, PA 17813 (570) 658-7385 Karen’s Sweet Celebrations Custom Candy Wrappers Http:// www.KarensSweetCelebrations.com

Hotels in the area:

SELINSGROVE INN 214 N. Market Street, Selinsgrove, PA (570) 374-4100 * selinsgroveinn.com

Miffilin County (23 miles west))

HAMPTON INN SELINSGROVE/ SHAMOKEN DAM 3 Stetler Avenue, Shamoken Dam, PA (570) 743-22223 *hamptoninn3.hilton.com

QUALITY INN & SUITES 13015 Ferguson Valley Rd. Burnham, PA (717) 248-4961 * qualityinn.com SUPER 8 BURNHAM/LEWISTOWN 12886 Fergusin Valley Rd. Burnham, PA (717) 242-8888 * super8.com

ECONO LODGE INN & SUITES 3249 N. Susquehanna Trail , Shamoken Dam, PA (570) 374-1111 * econolodgeshamokendam.com

BEST WESTERN NITNANY INN MILROY 5 Commerce Dr. Milroy, PA (717) 667-9595 * book.bestwestern.com

SELINSGROVE HOTEL INC 225 N Market St., Selinsgrove, PA (570) 374-1999

Selinsgrove Area (17 miles east)

Phillips Motel 2943 N. Susquehanna Trail, Shamoken Dam, PA (570) 743-3100 * phillipsmotel.com

COMFORT INN SELINSGROVE 613 N. Susquehanna Trail, Selinsgrove, PA (570) 374-8880 * comfortinnselinsgrove.com

GOLDEN ARROW MOTEL 2681 Susquehanna Trail Rd. Shamoken Dam, PA

Monkee Shines (570)743-1611

(570) 524-8000 * comfortsuiteslewisburg.com

Lewisburg Area (21 Miles Northeast)

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Lewisburg, PA 134 Walter Dr., Lewisburg, PA (570) 524-6600 * countryinns.com

LEWISBURG HOTEL 136 Market St. Lewisburg, PA (570) 523-7800 * lewisburghotel.com

The Pineapple Inn 439 Market Street, Lewisburg, PA (570) 524-6200 * pineappleinnbnb.com

Rodeway Inn 4687 W Branch Hwy, Lewisburg, PA (570) 523-1106 * rodewayinn.com

All Suites Inn 4663 W Branch Hwy, Lewisburg. PA (570) 523-8882 * allsuitesinn.com

Best Western Plus Country Cupboard Inn 7701 W Branch Hwy, Lewisburg, PA (570) 524-5500 * book.bestwestern.com

Hampton Inn 140 International Dr., Lewisburg, PA (570) 522-8500 8 hamptoninn3.hilton.com

Comfort Suites 4775 W Branch Hwy, Lewisburg, PA

TEAM PFG

or those of you who are not online. The PFG group on facebook has created TEAM PFG to go to Beavertown and participate in the parade and bed race. As the members of the PFG always do, the really rose to the occasion and rallied around the world for Team PFG! Jody Proetta in New York is Team Captain. Her husband is building the racing bed and Jody is making a PFG quilt to put on it. I have thrown together a PFG flag that looks something like this. Andrea Gilbey, in England,, has made a sign, a license plate,

an alarm clock and a bluebird..

Alexis Rigby in Ohio crocheted purple flowers for the bed. Jerri Keele in Oregon is bringing one of our little mascots, Miss Mollie McMonkee Jones to ride 28

Monkee Shines

in the bed with our David (Levin) from Pennsylvania.Our team will

have cheerleaders, a photographer, a pit crew, team tee shirts, surprises to

Monkee Shines hand out to the crowd and so much more. If you are going to Beavertown and want to be a part of the team, contact Jody Proetta, 11 White Hill Road, Putnam Valley, NY 10579 as soon as possible. If you would like a tee shirt they are $15 and you need to contact Jody about them also. There is a $100 entry fee for the race and any money donated ( to benefit DJEMF) over that fee will take time

off of the racersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time so if you would like to make a donation to help our racers win you need to send that to Jody also. I am so proud of our team and their teamwork. There will be a major report on the event from the Team Reporters in the next issue of Monkee Shines.

Monkee Shines

Michael Nesmith: “I Am Not That” By Rick Schwinden (Dr. Rock) “BUZZ” Newspaper Article: April 2013 (#23- W) Now here's a guy who truly has done it all ! I am going to try to dis-spell all the misinformation surrounding Nesmith, however there is a lot to cover …

Journey With Michael Blessing Papa Nez was born Robert Michael Nesmith: 30 Dec 1942 in Houston, Texas to Bette (Betty Clair McMurray /Nesmith- Graham 23 Mar 1924 –12 May 1980) & Warren A Nesmith (1919–1984). Warren & Bette were married in 1942 & Divorced in 1946. Michael was an only child raised in Dallas/ Ft. Worth. Bette created "Paint Out" in 1955 renamed "Liquid Paper” in 1958 (NOT: "White Out")& then sold the rights to Gillette in 1979 for $47 million (Nez inherited half of this amount in 1980). Mike started writing poetry about age 15. Nez enlisted into the US Air-force in 1960 & received his G.E.D. while enlisted, he was a mechanic and has said "I was kicked out of the Air-Force (in 1962), cuz I flipped over a general's plane". Mike enrolled in San Antonio Collage in 1962, he also began playing guitar around age 19 to regain dexterity in his hand after a firecracker accident, in collage Mike meet his long time bassist John London (John Carl Kuehne 6Feb1942 –12Feb2000) and Nez's 1st wife Phyllis Ann Barbour (married Jun'64, they had 3 children together: Christian DuVal: 31Jan1965, Jonathan: 4Feb1968 & Jessica Buffler: 10Sep1970 & then divorced in Mar'75) Don’t Call On Me Nez was part of the "New Christy Minstrels" & wrote songs recorded by other artists such as: Linda Ronstadt, Frankie Laine, Paul Butterfield & Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Nez

himself became a recording artist in early 1963 when he released his 1st 45 Single "Wanderin b/w Well Well" on Highness Records & later that year "How Can You Kiss Me b/w Just A Little Love" on Omnibus. In 1965 Nez changed his performing name to Michael Blessing, then auditioned for and got the part on the TV Show "The Monkees" & signed with Colpix Records (same label as Davy Jones) & released "The New Recruit b/w Journey With" In Oct, then in Jan 1966 Nez release his 4th 45 Single (before The Monkees 1st record was released in Aug 1966) "Until It's Time For You To Go b/w What Seems To Be The Trouble Officer" however a 5th single was reissued to capitalize on Nesmith's Monkees' fame "Just A Little Love b/ w Curson Terr" on Edan Records in 1966. Nesmith was hired for "The Monkees" project with a 7 year contract from 1965- 1972, he wrote some 46 songs for The Monkees project & was on 8 albums & 11 singles, 58 TV episodes, 1 feature film & 1 TV Special. Nez recorded his 1st Solo Album in Jul 1968 "Wichita Train Whistle Sings" Nez also had an affair with Nurit Wilde (born in Israel) & gave birth to Nesmith's 3rd son Jason Nesmith in 7Aug1968. Nesmith announced he was leaving The Monkees in Nov 1969 but did full fill some commercial work in 1970 as a Monkee. Papa Nez formed the "First National Band" in early 1970 with John London, Red Rhodes (Orville J. 30 Dec 1930 in Alton, IL. - 20 Aug 1995) &

Monkee Shines John Ware on drums from "The Stone Poneys" & then released 6 LPs on RCA, the 1st being "Magnetic South" Jul 1970 & 2 Singles the 1st has a Non-LP flipside "Rose City Chimes" the 2nd is the #21 Hit "Joanne" in Aug70. His 2nd album "Loose Salute” was in Nov 1970 with the #42 Hit "Silver Moon" in Jan71.

'Joanne'?" so Nez releases "And The Hits Just Keep A Coming" Aug'72 a single is released but again not a hit. > I’ve Never Loved Anyone More < It is about this time Nez's 1st marriage ends & Long time friend Bill Martin creates a film in 1972 "Northville Cemetary Massacre" (but released in 1976, a budget VHS was released under a different title) Nesmith was asked to write the score for free! Nez releases his final LP for RCA "Pretty Much Your Stand Ranch Stash" in Oct'73, with 1 single. Of the last 3 LPs 5 songs are Monkees hold over’s. Nez also produced & wrote with other artists like: Iain Matthews, Bert Jansch & Linda Hargrove , when Electra Records gave Nez an off shoot label titled Countryside (the label was an photo of an Orange, the fruit, like the Beatles Apple), but was shut down about 1 ½ years later. Nez did not tour a lot but he did play shows from time to time here is the setlist to a Rare Live CD:

The Crippled Lion The 'First National Band' toured throughout 1970 I own, the only known to exist, tour poster, for the concert; Fri 20 Nov 1970 Des Moines, Iowa @ KRNT Theatre, (this poster is featured in the book "Total Control" on Page #138, (it was to be used in a "Nesmith CD Boxset" on Rio Records in 1994). Dick Youngs was the MC for this show & told me this about the concert "Nesmith was riding on the hit Joanne, & Silver moon was just out, yet only about 200 people showed up for the show, so at the beginning of the show Nesmith asked everyone to move forward to the front closer to the stage" John Ware had this to say, "The end of the band came in late '70 in Des Moines I think, there was a huge argument within in the band & John (London) & I quit". Then in May 1971 the band release a 3rd LP "Nevada Fighter" with the minor charting hit "Nevada Fighter" 2 other singles were released from this album. Of this trio of LPs 10 songs were hold over’s from Nesmith's Monkees stint, also if you play side #2 of all 3 LPs in a row, this comprises a musical tale of the old west. Nesmith releases a 4th album as "The 2nd National Band" the LP is"Tantamount To Treason" in Feb'72 with the hardrock "Mama Rocker" as a 45, Nez performs in Phoenix 12-15 Apr '72 . At this time RCA asks Nesmith "When are you going to deliver another hit like

28 April 1974 in London @ The Roundhouse Joanne Some Of Shelly's Blues Silver Moon Different Drum Propinquity The Grand Ennui Wax Minute Tomorrow And Me The Upside Of Goodbye Roll With The Flow Marie's Theme Dance Between The Raindrops Then the changes really kick in, Nez opens his own record label "Pacific Arts" Oct'74 then releases "The Prison" boxset a record with a book in late 1974 & then re-releases it in Mar'75. Pacific Arts released many LPs of relativity unknown artists. Nesmith did do an unusual show of

Monkee Shines live music of "The Prison" with a ballet performing on the main stage with him off to the side reading the book and playing music. Nez marries for a 2nd time to Kathryn Bild in Feb 1976 (until Aug 1988).

memories of appearing on "Television Parts" he replied "I remember it very well & very fondly, it was the 1st time I was on prime time TV, I played the 'Sock Detective' how do you know about that?" then in 1986 the VHS "Dr. Duck's Super-Secret AllPurpose Sauce" (a part #2 of 'Television Parts") in Feb 1987 the film "Square Dance" then in Mar 1987 "Burglar" followed by the film "Tapeheads" in 1988, Nez sent out a 'promo only VHS' to promote the film.

In Mar 1977 Nez put out "From A Radio Engine To The Photon Wing" with Thee 1st Official Video Single "Rio" though it did not score high on the charts it became a huge TV hit as Nesmith created the show â&#x20AC;&#x153;PopClips" . Nez & band did do a brief tour in 1977, then released his 1st 'Live Album' "Live At The Palais" in Aug'78 (the commercial for the LP is hysterical). In May 1979 Nez released "Infinite Rider On The Big Dogma" with 2 singles both having videos to match "Magic" & the minor hit"Crusin" again because of "PopClips" which ran on the "Nickleodeon" channel from late 1980 to early 1981 for 1 season of 30 min. episodes when the show was purchased by Warner Cable & turned the idea into MTV (Des Moines was #9 of the 10 test markets). One of Nesmith's final live performances was in Oct 1979 @ Compton Terrace in Phoenix, AZ. (I have this show on tape).

Total Control In the late 80's Nez met his 3rd wife Victoria Kennedy (who he married in Apr 2000 & divorced in 2011) also in the late 80s Nez starts releasing Audio Albums with "Newer Stuff" in 1989 followed by "Older Stuff" in 1991 Nez goes out & performs for the 1st time in over 10 years in 1991 in Jacksonville, OR. @ Britt Festival, Nez records & releases "Live @ The Britt" on VHS (in 1999 the CD comes out) & to everyone's surprise releases "Tropical Campfires" in Jul'92, & then does a short tour. I was able to see Nez for the 1st time on Tour 15 Feb 1992 Chicago @ Cubby Bear. The beginning of the next year Jan'93 Nez is broadcast on "Austin City Limits" (from a 1992 performance). With a renewed interest in writing & recording Nez opens "Rio Records" 1994 & releases "The Garden" (the follow up to 'The Prison' 1974) & begins to re-release his earlier catalog on CD on the Awarness label, & begins pre-production on a 4 CD boxset, of which I was supplying some material for the accompanying booklet, about the same time the 'stuff hits the fan' Nesmith's Pacific Arts Co. has had a distribution deal with PBS since 1990, over time, with neither party happy with the other, several lawsuits were filed & in 1994 the suit, shuts down operations of Pacific Arts & in 1995 the law suit shut down his new-

Capsule Staring in 1980 Nez went on a promotional tour announcing "The audio only record is dead, moving forward there will only be VideoMusic" in keeping with this statement Nez turned towards VHS & Film releases in 1981 "Elephant Parts" a comedy segment video for which Nez won the 1st ever "Video Grammy" in 1982 the film "Time Rider" in 1984 the film "Repo Man" In Mar '85 the TV Special "Television Parts" leading to the short lived TV Series (9 episodes) "Television Parts" in Jun '85 when I interviewed Jerry Seinfeld (in MPLS Sep 2001) I asked him about his

Monkee Shines ly opened ‘Rio Records' however in Feb 1999 Nez & Co. were awarded $48 million in damages.

No, "Papa Gene's Blues" & “Tapioca Tundra" however he does perform many songs he recorded 1st under the MONKEES name & can be found on "Missing Links1- 3" but did not release until his 1st few RCA solo LPs like "Some Of Shelly's Blues" & "Propinquity"

Dynaflow In 1997 Nesmith returned to The Monkees for a new studio LP "Justus" a TV Special "Hey, Hey, It's The Monkees" & UK Tour. In early 2000 Nez launched www.VideoRanch3d.com selling his products & "on-Line" performances. Nez finally released a new CD "Rays" in 2006.Papa Nez being a prolific writer released his 1st novel "The Long Sandy Hair of Neftoon Zamora" in 1998 followed by in 2009 his 2nd "The America Gene" 2009. Nesmith, Dolenz & Tork toured the US last year. Nez went out solo last year and is on tour now. *Michael Nesmith of The MONKEES; will be performing Fri 5 April 2013 at the Fitzgerald Theatre in St. Paul his 2nd Solo tour in 21 years. I have been getting this question asked a lot "Will Nez be performing a lot of MONKEES songs" the answer ”Sorry

I remember seeing Nez on TV in 1979 for a "Where are they now" segment & my Dad said "What has he really done outside of The Monkees”, with all due respect Dad... Michael Nesmith, well he did it all. Until the next time.... MrZERo (RLSchwinden) "Mr. Zero's" Est. 2009 http://www.mrzeros.com 1744 Lexington Ave N Roseville/ St. Paul, MN. 55113 651-489-0207

Monkee Shines

By Marie Gibson Michael News for March 2013

I talked to a source who was lucky enough to get to the show in Los Angeles AND the Meet and Greet afterwards, and not only was she lucky enough to get to meet Nez, but Micky Dolenz unexpectedly showed up and she got to meet him as well. She said Nez was very charming and very sweet.

ope everyone has a Happy Easter!!

I know that we all know that our Nez has recently started a Spring Solo Tour, due in part to the fun he had touring with Peter and Micky this past Fall.

On his page recently, Nez stated that he was enjoying himself immensely being on tour, but also misses his beloved dog Dale very much. But he does have his daughter Jessica with him, so he is not alone. Well, he is Nez - He’s never truly alone, no one is, as long as we love and are loved.

3/21 – Nashville, Tenn. 3/24 – Los Angeles, Calif. 3/26 – Santa Cruz, Calif. 3/27 – San Francisco, Calif. 3/29 – Portland, Ore. 3/30 – Seattle, Wash. 4/3 – Boulder, Colo. 4/5 – Minneapolis, Minn. 4/6 – Chicago, Ill. 4/7 – Detroit, Mich. 4/9 – Munhall, Pa. 4/11 – Northampton, Mass. 4/12 – Rahway, N.J. 4/13 – Boston, Mass. 4/15- Philadelphia, Pa. 4/16 – New York, N.Y. 4/17 – Alexandria Va.

Love Ya!! Marie

I know some of these dates have already past, but if you’re anywhere near the remaining dates, try to go if you can! According to sources, he has also added a meet and greet after the show for an additional charge, but only 15 spots per show have been available and have gone rather fast! I had a slim chance to go to the Los Angeles show, but things didn’t quite work out! There is always next time!

Monkee Shines

More Than A Monkee By: Bonnie Borgh

his information was obtained via: http:// www.tv.com/people/ davy-jones/

tion (Himself) 04/09/06 The Weakest Link (Himself) Season 2 Episode 35 NBC All-Stars Edition 05/26/02

For those of you who think David Jones was just a Monkee, perhaps you’d like to do some day tripping to see just some of the programs David has starred or guest starred in over the course of his career.

Hey Arnold! (Himself) Season 5 Episode 15 Gerald’s Game/Fishing Trip 04/17/02 E! True Hollywood Story (Himself) Season 3 Episode 30 The Monkees 08/01/99

While this is an impressive listing, David has appeared in other programs not mentioned in this particular Credits log. If you know of any other appearances, please feel free to submit those to monkeesfan4ever@gmail.com. It would be nice to compile the list as accurately as possible.

E! True Hollywood Story (Himself) Season 3 Episode 21 The Brady Bunch 06/06/99 Sabrina, The Teenage Witch (Himself) Season 2, Episode 4 Dante’s Inferno 10/10/97

Guest Star

The Single Guy (Himself) Season 2, Episode 9 Davy Jones 11/21/96

Sponge Bob Square Pants (Himself) Season 6 Episode 32 Sponge Bob Square Pants vs. The Big One 04/17/09

Boy Meets World (Reginald ‘Reg’ Fairfield) Season 3 Episode 8 Rave On 11/17/95

Myths & Legends (Himself) Season 2 Episode 7 Bigfoot, Phone Home 11/19/08 Season 2 Episode 2 Manson, Monkees and Mister Ed 10/15/08

Herman’s Head (Himself) Season 2 Episode 11 The One Where They Go on the Love Boat 11/22/92

TV Land Confidential (Himself) Season 2 Episode 2 Music 08/08/07 Extreme Makeover: Home Edi-

Live! With Kelly (Himself) Season 4 Episode 184 06/04/92 36

Monkee Shines (Himself) Season 10 Episode 246 08/21/72

The ABC After School Special (Albert Lynch) Season 19 Episode 5 It’s Only Rock & Roll 03/21/91

Dinah! (Himself) Season 2 Episode 88 01/21/76

This is Your Life (UK) (Himself) Season 30 Episode 22 Sir Harry Secombe 03/17/90

Love, American Style (Guest Star) Season 5, Episode 43 Love and the Model Apartment 11/30/73

The Pat Sajak Show (Himself) Season 1 Episode 112 06/30/89

The Merv Griffin Show (Himself) Season 10 Episode 182 06/14/73 (Himself) Season 9 Episode 67 12/13/71

My Two Dads (Malcolm O’Dell) Season 2 Episode 5 Fallen Idol 02/15/89 (Malcolm O’Dell) Season 1 Episode 15 The Wedge 02/07/88

The New Scooby-Doo Movies (Himself) Season 1 Episode 13 The Haunted Horseman of Hagglethorn Hall 12/02/72

Sledge Hammer! (Jerry Vicuna) Season 2 Episode 15 Sledge, Rattle & Roll 01/15/88 American Music Awards (Himself) Season 14 Episode 14 The 14th American Music Awards 01/26/87

American Bandstand (Guest Host) Season 15 Episode 41 ‘Pop’ special hosted by Davy Jones 07/15/72

MTV Video Music Awards (Himself) 09/05/86

The Brady Bunch (Himself) Season 3 Episode 12 Getting Davy Jones 12/10/71

Good Morning America (Himself) Season 12 Episode 148 07/25/86

American Bandstand (Guest) Season 15 Episode 1 The Grass Roots/Davy Jones 09/04/71

Good Morning Britain (Himself) Season 4 Episode 1 01/07/86

Love, American Style (Ronald) Season 2, Episode 10 Love and the Elopement 10/23/70

Disneyland (Davey) Season 23 Episode 21 Bluegrass Special 05/22/77

Get it Together (Himself) Season 1 Episode 1 Creedence Clearwater Revival/Three Dog Night 01/03/70

The Mike Douglas Show (Himself) Season 14 Episode 130 02/27/76 37

Monkee Shines Lush Life (Johnny James) Season 1 Episode 7 Not So Lush Rock Star

12/17/66 Season 19 Episode 24 Larry Santos/Dolenz, Jones, Boyce & Hart/ Billy Braves 03/13/76

The Music Scene (Co-host) Season 1 Episode 14 Christmas Show 12/22/69

The Farmer’s Daughter (Guest) Season 3 Episode 16 Moe Hill and the Mountains 01/07/66

Rowan & Martin’s Laugh In (Cameo) Season 3 Episode 11 Episode #51 11/24/69

Ben Casey (Greg Carter) Season 5 Episode 15 If You Play Your Cards Right, You Too Can Be a Loser 12/27/65

The Andy Williams Show (1969) (Himself) Season 1 Episode 6 10/25/69

Where The Action Is (Himself) Season 2 Episode 62 Len Barry/David Jones 12/07/65

Rowan & Martin’s Laugh In (Guest) Season 3 Episode 4 Episode #44 10/06/69

Shindig (Himself) Season 2 Episode 18 Show 69: November 13, 1965 Rick Nelson, The Turtles, Barbara Lewis, Roy Head 11/13/65

Happening ‘68 (Himself) Season 2 Episode 16 Monkee Day with Mick, Micky, and Davy 03/22/69 This is Tom Jones (Himself) Season 2 Episode 3 02/14/69

The Ed Sullivan Show (Guest) Season 17 Episode 19 February 9, 1964 The Beatles(1st appearance) Davy Jones, Georgia Brown in “Oliver!” 02/09/64

Rowan & Martin’s Laugh In (Guest) Season 2 Episode 19 Episode #33 02/10/69

Talent Scouts (Himself) Season 2 Episode 3 07/16/63

The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour (Himself) Season 1 Episode 2 02/05/69

Z Cars (David Jones as Boy Footballer) Season 2 Episode 1 On WatchNewtown 09/19/62

The Joey Bishop Show (Himself) Season 2 Episode 154 04/24/68

Z Cars (David Jones as Frankie Sale) Season 1 Episode 15 The Best Days 04/10/62

American Bandstand (Himself) Season 10 Episode 15 The Sandpipers/Tina Mason

Coronation Street (Colin Lomax) Season 2 Episode 38

Monkee Shines 18 03/06/61

Season 2 Episode 27 Head 11/06/68 Seasons 1 and 2 of The Monkees 58 Episodes (1966-1968)

Special Guest Star Phineas and Ferb (Nigel) Season 3 Episode 13 Meatloaf Surprise 06/24/11

Star Meet The Royals (Host) Season 1 Episodes 1-13 (2003-2004) The Monkees (David Jones) Season 2 Episode 28 33 1/3 Revolutions Per Monkee 04/14/69

Monkee Shines

From Hazel

Monkee Shines

Meet Al Bigley http://bigglee.blogspot.com/ Let introduce Al Bigley to you. Al is a long time Monkee fan and collector of all things Monkee. He is also a illustrator and comic book collector. Al has been a great friend to the PFG and a wealth of information so I wanted you to meet him. I also invited him to write a little piece about himself which I promptly lost. So sorry Al! So I am throwing this together. If you are a fan of Marvel Comics or the Monkees. Check out Al’s blog:

http://bigglee.blogspot.com/ It is filled with rare and interesting bit of nostalgia. Al knows his stuff….he’s a “super” guy. ( Yeah I went there– loll!) He also has some very interesting Monkees remixes available to listen to on his blog. Check out the blog and send some PFG love his way.

Al Bigley showing off one of his many Monkees shirts

Monkee Shines

Davy Jones, Forever In My Heart By Amy Hilliard

avy Jones…SIGHS. What was it about Davy Jones that made me love him so much and made me grieve him like a family member? Was it his looks, his voice, his sense of humor, his familiarity? Yes…and no. He didn’t look the same at 66 that he did at 20. His voice didn’t sound quite as velvet. His songs hadn’t been on my turntable or repeated in my playlist much for many years, but he was a treasure; a treasure I had stashed away in my heart at such a young age, I wasn’t really aware of how much I valued him, until he was gone. I was born in 1971. I never remember there not being a Davy Jones. His voice is part of the soundtrack of my life. My first records were my sister’s old hand me down 45s of I’m a Believer/Stepping’ Stone and Teardrop City/A Man without a Dream. I remember watching the Monkees TV show during the 80s revival and feeling as if I was seeing old friends again and happily welcomed all “the boys” back into my home. So, I assume the show must have been rerun in my area early in my life for me to develop such an early attachment. I remembered Micky, Mike and Peter, too, but I was always a Davy girl. So, when the Monkees came back in the 1980’s, I was a goner for Davy Jones. I loved Davy. I watched every Monkees show and special that was on MTV/Nickelodeon, bought all the magazines, put up the posters, the works. Davy made me happy. I suppose he made me happy because he had been inside of my heart all of my life; and had been in my heart because he made me happy. He was in

there good and tight, part of its very fabric. Another attachment that I have with Davy has to do with his name. Ironically, my first real boyfriend’s name was David Jones. He had dark hair and dark eyes, too. He was a “good boy” and would have made a “good man.” Being from small town America, I don’t have much of a doubt that we would have spent the rest of our lives together, if not for a cruel twist of fate. Sadly, he passed away from cancer two weeks before my 16th birthday. He was only 18 years old. Much of my innocence died with him. Sixteen year old girls aren’t built to handle that kind of loss. I felt like I was dying inside. Nothing seemed to ease the pain. Then something ordinary, yet extraordinary happened. Enter my first love, my other David Jones. My David died the summer of 1987, a year The Monkees were on tour. My older sister heard on the radio that they were coming to Augusta, Georgia, 30 minutes from my house. NOBODY ever comes to Augusta, Georgia, unless it’s the week of The Masters golf tournament, NOBODY… but Davy was coming, and soon. Looking for a great birthday present and in hopes of cheering me up, she immediately went out and bought tickets. I will never forget that night. Looking back, it felt to me like Davy was speaking directly to me saying, “I’m going to MAKE you laugh again. I don’t care what I have to do, say or wear (remember the Tiger suit?), I’m going to MAKE you laugh and forget

Monkee Shines your troubles tonight.” I remember seeing him in person for the first time (in his 40s) and thinking, “Wow, he IS old enough to be my father,” then … thinking how much I really didn’t care! That night was filled with fun, laughter and sheer innocent teenage bliss. I let Davy Jones sweep me off my feet with his corny jokes, outrageous antics, cheeky sense of humor, not to mention those dancing eyes and that glorious smile. He MADE me feel happy, in spite of my heartache. For the rest of the night, and much of the next day (through my daydream believing), I didn’t think about my other David, or my broken heart. Somehow, in spite of its shattered state, Davy Jones had managed to put my heart back together and fill it heart with joy; I suppose because he was part of it. How could he not? For that feeling, I am forever grateful.

around, for me, it was the middle of finals week. I was bogged down in papers and final exams. I was absolutely exhausted from my life. After finishing a final around 1:30 p.m., I turned on Facebook for the first time of the day. Among the Bible verses, inspirational quotes and silly pictures was a news-forward from a friend, “Davy Jones, Dead at 66.” I remember literally closing my eyes tightly and looking again. The unthinkable words were still there. My other David was gone. It was impossible! He was supposed to be safe, locked up in my heart forever. Immediately, an ache like my heart had been ripped open came over me, a hard lump rose up in throat, a sick feeling came in my stomach and tears began to roll like hadn’t since I lost my father several years ago. All the while, I was crying out to God on the inside, “No! Why?!” My daughter, who is 10 years old, came home from school shortly after that. She could see I’d been crying and asked me what was wrong. I told her that someone I had loved had died. Frightened, she said, “Who, Mama?” “Did I know them?” “No, it wasn’t really someone I knew, but it was someone I loved” I replied. “His name was Davy Jones. He used to be on TV a long time ago, when I was a little girl. He was kind of like my Justin Bibber.” She looked at me in absolutely disbelief and said, “Oh, Mama! I’m so sorry! Go and sit down. I’ll make supper tonight.” She gave me a big tight hug. She poured me a cup of coffee. That night she made one of the two quick meals she knows how to prepare, Kraft Macaroni and Cheese with hot dogs. While she was stirring the mac-n-cheese, she asked me a few questions about Davy; what happened to him? How old was he? Then she asked one that surprised me. “Was he on the Brady Bunch?” she asked. “Yeah,” I said, “One time.” Her face

As a side note, it wasn’t until after he died, that I would hear a song that he released in Japan called “Baby, You’ll Soon Be Sixteen,” a song that perfectly describes my first true relationship. The fact that it’s sung by a man who shares the same name, I think is more than a coincidence, as was the timing of it all. A lot of years have passed since that night in 1987. I have met several men since then. None have measured up to either David Jones. I married and have 2 wonderful children. Both of my parents and also my husband have passed away, all too young. For the past few years, I’ve been fighting to keep my head above water, going back to college and gradually rebuilding our lives. Getting bogged down in day to day struggles has been the norm. I haven’t had or made much time for fun. When

February

29,

2012 rolled

Monkee Shines suddenly lit up with recognition. “Oh, I

looked The Monkees up on YouTube. They watched the episodes "Fairy Tale" and "Hillbilly Honeymoon," hummed and sang along to "I’m a Believer" (which they knew from Shrek) and laughed and laughed. After a while of reveling in Monkeemania, I looked at my children and realized that we were all tickled and laughing about the same things. Then, I felt familiar warmth inside. I realized that in the midst of my grief and my broken heart, just like in 1987, Davy Jones had managed to make me happy, once again. Then, of course, I cried. Goodnight sweet prince. Thank you for the joy and happiness you brought to my life, especially when nobody else could. You will forever be in my heart.

saw that one the other night. He IS cute!” “Do you have his song on your phone?” she asked. “Which one?” I asked. (She looked at me as if to say “… duh...”) “The one he sang to Marcia! Wait, did he have another one?” ---Did he have another one?! Oh, what a question! After that, it was a virtual Monkeefest in my house for the rest of the night. The kids and I sat down at the table for dinner, and I told them every piece of useless Monkee trivia in my head (which is a lot). They looked at me like I had lost my mind. I suppose from their perspective, I had. That night, they met a part of their mother they didn’t know existed; the fun, silly girl that had been buried by bills, worries and carpool for all of their lives. We