Friends of Tony Orlando and Dawn Message Board
November 2005
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Terri |
Sherman Oaks Signing/Christmas Parade |
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Hi, |
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I am so happy for you that you got your photo taken with Tony, Telma and Joyce. What a treasure that photo must be! |
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Robin 11-28-05 7:47 PM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
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The
moment I waited 32 years for It's taken me some hours to settle down and organize my thoughts to write up yesterday's wonderful experience. Words are still very hard to find to adequately capture the emotions, so please bear with me, especially when it seems like I'm rambling. Where to begin? I could start in spring 1973, when I first saw "Dawn" (as they were still collectively known then) on "The Mike Douglas Show," but I think that's starting a little TOO far back. So let's just jump ahead those 32 years and start with yesterday. Traffic was kind as my friend Tam - not a TOAD fan, but a good pal there to scope out the scene (and to step in as personal assistant when I became too frazzled to take care of myself) - and I swooped up the 405 freeway to Sherman Oaks after church. We arrived at Tower by 12:30 and almost immediately ran into Pat, who told us no one else was there yet. She took care of some business while Tam and I hit the store. A few music geek types were there by now, debating the merits of CD packaging (one wouldn't buy the TOAD Christmas CD because it was a "digi-pack" rather than a jewelbox package - and I rather thought he was missing the point which is THE FIRST NEW TONY ORLANDO AND DAWN MUSIC IN 28 years... but I digress). After a brief two rounds of cell-phone tag, Terri arrived shortly afterward and we hooked up. Everyone hovered about waiting for the Tower staff to decide where the signing was going to be; finally, around 1-ish, they began to set up on the first floor and moved our proto-line to just outside the door. Energy was HIGH. I can't tell you how high. It was as if... ripples of fan energy that had started to form back in the 70's were gathering, rolling through time, and creating emotional tidal waves in the present day. I was as buzzed as I used to be as a teenager, in Vegas or at Television City, waiting for THAT MOMENT when the lights would dim and the announcer's voice would say, "Ladies and Gentlemen, Tony Orlando and Dawn!" I know I was more excited yesterday than I was in August, probably because this time the odds were greater that it would be up close and personal. Those of us at the front of the line had so much amazing energy, so many years of LOVE, invested in that group that I don't think any of us thought it would be anything less than wonderful. Pat had brought leis from Hawaii; I had crocheted scarves (not the "yellow ribbon" scarves I whipped up for some of us in August, but actual fashion/cold weather scarves) to give to Telma, Joyce, Pam, and to Tony for Jenny Rose. It was a bit nerve-wracking when Tower staff announced that, due to a line that had grown to a respectable size by the time 2 o'clock rolled around, that they were limiting items to be signed to two per person. Poor Pat - she had 20 CDs to be signed! I had four items - my own CD, 2 CDs as gifts, and a vintage 1976 "To Be With You" poster I'd snaffled back in the day from The Wherehouse in Whittier and that had been in the back closet at my mother's for decades now - but Tam, bless her heart, said she'd get my extras signed. And then they were there! I didn't see them arrive. The "blur" from the old days - when too much was happening within those tidal waves of excitement - was kicking in now. The staff moved the line into the store. We shuffled about. People in-store tried to jump in front. We shuffled them right out of the way. The music geek who didn't like "digi-packs" was first in the real line - we wanted him to be first, to break the ice, you know? - but seated at their signing table, a phenomenal backdrop behind them, Tony, Telma and Joyce began to spot US, the way we were spotting THEM. Joyce semaphored HELLO!!!!!!! to me and I think I began to forget to breathe. I was 18 again, my hands were shaking, and words were failing me. I moved up to the table (I was the first of our crowd, and second in line overall), the very nice Tower staffer helping me with my vintage poster (it's big, 24x24) and I tried to keep myself from falling apart. Joyce stood up and put her arms around me - she's the one I've always known best - and for a few minutes we were all over each other, with "Girl, you look GREAT!" going back and forth, hugging and petting and just being sista-girls. More blur. I fumbled for the gift bags with the scarves, each color-coded and with tags/cards, but could I figure out which belonged to whom? No! I'd apparently lost the power of perception. Joyce and Tony and Telma began to sign my items as I began to breathe again. (Asphyxiation blue is not a good color for me.) What to say to Tony? Well, finding the right gift bag made it easy: "This is a Christmas present for Jenny Rose." His eyes got very soft as he thanked me. Then I added, "I'm an old friend of Francine's, from back in the day." "Oh, you knew her in school?" Not quite that far back, I explained - from the CBS days. (Although later on I realized that she *was* in school - LA City College - when we first met.) Then to Telma, giving her the gift bag, getting her signature. I never knew Telma very well and was pretty sure she wouldn't remember me.... until I referenced the Chocolate Cake story (I've told it here before - when Terri, Kathy Lucas and I showed up at Telma's place on her birthday in 1977 with a cake, and she invited us in and served us her birthday cake with glasses of milk). And then she remembered "us" from the incident. "Girl, you can bring me a chocolate cake any time!" My friend Tam was moving through the line behind me, chatting like a human being instead of a smitten Fangirl, getting my other two CDs signed. Once I and my jarring temporary lack of language skills plus my shaking hands cleared the gauntlet, I pulled out my camera and starting snapping. Now, Tam has a tradition (it's big in a non-celebrity fan group she and I both hang out in) of taking pictures of action figures in exotic locales (my ex took action figures to Maui last summer and chronicled their adventures) or with famous people. Tam handed Tony her "Real Ghostbusters' Peter Venkman" action figure and asked all three if they would pose with "him." And by God, they did! The two pictures of Tony Orlando and Dawn with a six-inch plastic action figure have to be seen to be believed! By now Terri (and another friend of hers from back in the day, also named Joyce) and Pat were moving through the line. Tony teased Terri about the old days at CBS. Pat gifted them with stunning leis. And then all of us were through the line, standing, staring, snapping, shaking. (Well, Terri and I were, and you can add a little bit of crying to the list. And, yeah, still mostly non-verbal, although we did graduate to the babbling-to-each-other-as-we-recount-what-just-happened-to-us stage.) And, yeah, we hovered. I'm sure Tower was SICK of us. But you know? IMHO, we earned it. If you add the years we've followed Tony, Telma, and Joyce, between us we have well over 100 years of history. What's a few minutes standing and smiling, as long as we weren't blocking the exits? Blur. Pam Vincent arrived. I've only met her once and Joyce had said to make sure I went to reintroduce myself to her. So I did and we had a lovely conversation, both about back in the day, and about the unbelievable energy and excitement of now. She looks absolutely wonderful with her hard-earned weight loss and I might just ask her her secret and apply it to these size 22 hips myself. Brant Berry was there. I think he thought I was just going to shake his hand, but I flat out told him, "NO! You deserve a hug." (Not sure if *he* thought he "deserved" one from me, tho', or if it was more punishment.) He got it RIGHT, honoring the beloved heritage and tradition of "our" TOAD. I mean, who among the old-timers didn't MELT at opening the booklet in the CD to see the "Tuneweaving" photo revisited? Only someone who understands and respects their history would have even bothered. Toni "Candida" Wine was there. I went over, introduced myself, and thanked her for starting it all. She's a funny, salty New Yorker and we had a nice conversation. She was genuinely surprised and pleased to be complimented for her part in TOAD's history, and commented that she'd known Tony since she was 14 and he was 16. (Now that's some years!) At some point Pat jumped back into the line for more signatures, since it was moving pretty fast. We slid back there as well, hoping that if we stayed toward the back, we'd have actual photo-op time. The staffers kept moving those of us who'd been through already even further to the back - as in, dead last - to give "first-timers" the chance. (Tony, Telma and Joyce were on a tight time schedule since they were going to be in the Hollywood Christmas Parade afterward.) But... finally, it was all over but the shouting, things were winding down, and we moved forward again. Tower said it was okay for Pat to get the rest of her CDs signed so they started moving them down the autograph line. And the photos - the photos that, yes, some of us waited decades for - began. Terri slid behind the table; Tony, Telma and Joyce paused, smiled, hugged; the shutter clicked. Perfect. My turn. I insinuated myself between table and backdrop, between Joyce and Tony, Telma on the other side of Tony. Joyce held my hand. Flash. Perfect. Terri's friend Joyce handed me her video camera - I believe Terri had her still camera - and I taped her entire moment, of history captured on film. Pat, last, moved behind the table for her photo op, with the folks to whom she's devoted so much love and time and attention over the decades (and I wish to do a public shout-out to Pat, to THANK HER for everything she's done to communicate news of TOAD to their fandom, both old and new. I doubt I would have ever managed to re-hook up on my own, so I owe her a LOT. ::applauds::). And then, well, it was over. I was starting to "feel" the three hours of STANDING in my three-inch high-heeled boots. (Guess the endorphins wore off when TOAD left the building, huh?) Terri was similarly wiped. Tam was amused. After Fan-Joyce joined us, we decided to head down to PF Chang's to unwind over some late lunch/early dinner. We spent the next hour eating really great Chinese food and semi-flirting with the CUTEST waiter in the world, who had such an amazing voice we asked him if he was trying to break into the business. (Yes, he was.) Terri and I shared stories that we'd practically forgotten of all those years ago, while our two dining companions just sorta stared at us (I'm not quite sure our stories curled their hair, but Tales From Back in the Day just might be marketable as a home permanent...) The evening wrapped up. Tam and I drove back to the South Bay, stopping for ice cream, because, well, the day was just too SWEET to end without some Carvel. I felt incredibly... fulfilled. Mellow. And very, very happy. It happened. It really did. Who would have thought that after three decades, I'd have this opportunity? What are the odds? The group BROKE UP in 1977. (I know that some of you who frequent this board were there when it happened.) Or, that I would still love and care so much? And that OTHER people would love and care so much too? For a while, I admit I went through a "too cool for the room" stage. "Yeah, I USED to like 'Tony Orlando and Dawn', but...." A distant shrug, the implication that I'd outgrown them. Yet the albums were still packed carefully away, at Mom's (with that poster, which is now in a frame that's too big, but it's at least protecting it until I can get it restored and professionally mounted), and I secretly bought a couple compilation "Greatest Hits" CDs to enjoy. The old flame never really died, just banked away for a while. Miracles happen. I traveled more than 30 years through time yesterday, carried on that tidal wave of fan energy that started building in 1973. Writing this tonight, I'm still shaking. I cherish this photo. |
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John 11-29-05 5:23 AM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
| Robin, It sounds like you
had a awesome time. I wished I was there. I met you at The Grove in LA in
August. I just absolutely love TOAD; they are great people and very true to
their fans. The photo of you and TOAD is great. Robin, I have to agree with
you about Brant Berry he got this group back together, released their TV
shows on DVD, released their records on CD's and in 2005 made a Christmas
Reunion CD. Brant Berry WE LOVE YOU!!! Also I had alot to be thankful for
this Thanksgiving. I just love everyone I meet at the TOAD promotional
appearances. Happy Holidays John |
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Sue 11-29-05 6:21 AM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
| Oh wow, what a great photo!!! I wish I could have gone to NYC to see them, it would have been terrific. There are alot of us still out there from the old days. Those are the true fans. I felt all your excitement and it sounds like a wonderful experience. Way to go!!!! | |
Julie 11-29-05 7:01 AM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
| What a wonderful story Robin. I am really happy for you. As with all of us here, it sounds like your love for Tony, Telma and Joyce and Pam has only gotten stronger with the passing of time. I think we all leave a special place in our hearts for the people, whether they are ones we know personally, or through television or music, who make an impact on our lives when we are young. As we grow and live out our lives we sometimes forget about that special place until something triggers us emotionally and then it is immediately filled again with the same love and admiration as it once was. I think that's why the bond between TOAD and their many fans is still as strong as it ever was... We still have that special place in our hearts and they still have the love for their fans and for each other and, of course, their immense talent for bringing harmony to a song as only they can. I am so happy that Brandt Berry realized that we all needed a chance to revisit that special place in our hearts and once again be touched by these four very special people. sniff sniff :). | |
Pat 11-29-05 11:24 AM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
| Before you start asking about my post, it is coming later tonight. I just wanted to let you all know that the People of Hawaii are just thrilled with the Christmas CD! There was a joyous reaction to the ones I passed out here yesterday and today. And for a little shout out to Brandt, you know they have a Tower Records over here too! Did I also mention that it's 81 degrees right now? | |
Pat 11-30-05 11:24 PM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
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Those not familiar with trying to get a flight out of Hawaii on Thanksgiving weekend wouldn’t understand what difficulty I was faced with in arranging a flight to the mainland on Saturday for the Sherman Oaks Tower Records signing. No seats available on any flights out of any of the Islands. It took me talking it over with great United CSR who suggested I use my “1k powers” of a guaranteed seat. (For United’s high level elite customers they will book a seat where one does not exist.) Probably some non-rev that was planning on a seat lost it to me. That put me on the redeye out of Honolulu on Saturday night (yeah I know I don’t DO redeyes) arriving at LAX at 4:30 a.m. on Sunday. The upgrade to First made it more bearable and I did sleep some of the way. I was greeted to Southern California with a chilly 52 degree outdoor temperature. The shivers began and my teeth were chattering by the time the rental car company picked me up. I drove up to Sherman Oaks, got some ice to keep the leis cool and slept ‘til my phone rang at 11:00 (ahem, you know who you are). I called Tower the day before to have them set aside 20 Christmas CDs because it would be a shame to go that far and run the risk of them selling out on what I wanted. When I went in to Tower to pick them up, my reputation had preceded me and several salesclerks came over to meet the (use your own adjective here) person who flew in from Hawaii for this event. I took the CDs back to the van to put sticky notes one each one so they could be personalized at the signing. On the way, my cell phone rang and while I was listening to the message Robin walked up with her friend Tam. I told them what was going on inside the store (nothing) and they headed off to find out what they could. Charlene found out through Pam that I was going to be at the signing and she called to ask if I could get some CDs for her; someone at the store told her they were sold out. I was happy to oblige and wrote down all her names. The store wasn’t sold out, by the way. Off to the van and organize the CDs and DVDs for signing. All in there were 24 CDs and 3 DVD sets that I needed signed. Then it was back to Tower. Robin, Terri, Joyce and Tam were waiting in line and I joined them. As happens whenever Robin, Terri and I end up together, talk turns to the old days and some of the funny/crazy things that happened. Robin and Terri attended most of the TV show tapings back in the day since they lived in the area. While in the middle of this a reporter for the local paper came up to ask some questions. After interviewing us, she said that she didn’t need to interview anyone else in line. She was thrilled to have stumbled upon our oldtimer group. She loved our stories. The wait time just flew by. Finally the line started in and Todd, the marketing/promotions guy from Tower, announced that you could have only 2 items signed (OH NO!). I simply told him that I would return any merchandise that I was not able to have signed. Needless to say, in the end, everything was signed. J Many people had other items for them to sign. I saw a lot of albums in line. I presented Joyce, Tony, Telma and Pam with leis that I brought from Hawaii on my first pass through the line. Tony commented how fresh they were…well they were made less than 24 hours earlier. After my first pass through the line, I stopped by to talk to Brandt. He gave me some posters from the event and the new promotional photos that R2 has. It’s terrific! We chatted a bit and he mentioned that they had some satellite interviews that started in the wee hours of the morning. Hair and makeup was scheduled for 1:30 a.m. One of those interviews you can see online here. http://wgntv.trb.com/news/local/morningnews/?track=fif (scroll down the page to Celebrity Guests and click on the Tony Orlando and Dawn Link) There was a great turnout and it was kind of strange to have bits and pieces of conversations with them as I cycled and recycled through the line. In the end Todd helped me open all of the rest of the CDs and organized them for signing. He also asked me to take his picture with TOAD because his camera was out of batteries. Telma and I chatted about how she was enjoying having Coby Bell play her love interest on Half & Half. Afterwards Tony called me over to talk to a reporter from the Honolulu paper. He wondered if I had a photo with the group (LOL—yeah quite a few) and was interested in doing a story about my trip there for the signing. Florence LaRue showed up at the signing to surprise all of them. She looked FABULOUS! They even autographed a CD for her! Brandt mentioned to me later that he is interested in putting one of the Fifth Dimension shows on DVD. Tony, Telma and Joyce went off to the Hollywood Parade, Robin, Terri, Joyce, and Tam left and Pam and I ended up going to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. My flight out of LAX was at 7:00 and in the end it was a rush to get there and get the van returned. Again I was upgraded on the return and as I was settling into 1J right before the door closed I looked up and was staring at Dominic Monaghan (Charlie from “Lost”) closely followed by Evangeline Lilly (Kate from “Lost”). They were headed back to Hawaii after their Thanksgiving holiday on the Mainland. We didn’t get into Honolulu until about midnight and were the only people on the plane who headed directly to the garage. Honestly, I wasn’t stalking them J. We were coincidentally parked on the same floor of the garage. The next day I started handing out the CDs and DVDs gifts to friends. I have never seen so many excited people. They couldn’t believe that I got them an autographed copy. I didn’t bother to explain that I just flew a 5,112 mile roundtrip flight in a single 24 hour period to get them. After the deliveries were made, and the others packaged for mailing, I could finally take a long deserved nap. I don’t think I’ve caught up on my sleep yet. I’m just glad to be back where it is warm! |
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CJ 12-01-05 8:45 AM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
| Hi Pat, Robin and the rest
of the TOAD gang, Thank you for sharing your wonderful stories with the rest of us. Reading your posts I could feel your excitement at the Sherman Oaks signing. I wish I could have been there. I am hoping that they might come to our Tower records here in Vegas. It is a HUGE store and I know the turnout would be great. It would be great to meet up with some of the friends of TOAD also. Pat, thank you for the link to the newscast with the interview. They looked great and it was heartwarming to see them together again. Joyce and Telma looked beautiful. (I had such a crush on Joyce when I was a kid. LOL) I am hoping that the new year brings us some reunion concerts and hopefully a new album and possibly volume 2 of the DVD set. Here's wishing you all a Happy Holiday Season. Take care, CJ |
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Julie 12-02-05 6:17 PM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
| I am so glad you were able to make it to the signing Pat. And thanks for yet another "next best thing to being there" review :). We always enjoy them. The leis were such a nice idea and I'm sure very much appreciated. They look beautiful in the picture I saw. And I knew it was only a matter of time before you "found" someone from Lost in your vicinity. They probably go back and forth from Hawaii to the mainland as much as you do. LOL, maybe not for such short periods of time, but then you are, after all, "the (use your own adjective here) person who flew in from Hawaii for this event" woman! ;). Glad you had fun!! | |
Pat 12-02-05 8:59 PM |
Re: Sherman Oaks Signing |
| Yeah it was a bit much to manage, but in the end I'm glad I did it. But now I'm back home in Hawaii leading my much more laid back island life and couldn't possibly imagine doing something so crazy. | |
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Sue |
Tony in Atlantic City |
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Hi Guys!!! I just wanted to say hi and that I'm still around. I just saw Tony again in Atlantic City and a friend gave me their Christmas CD. I just love it!!! I'm so happy to hear them all singing together again, it does the heart good. Joyce and Telma are absolutely amazing. I always thought they should record an album, but I'm so glad to hear that back singing again. Hope everyone has a terrific holiday. |
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Pat |
TOAD at Hollywood Christmas Parade 11/27/05 |
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TOAD will be among the stars in the Hollywood Christmas Parade which takes place starting at 5:00 p.m. The parade runs down Hollywood Boulevard. |
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Just saw Tony, Telma and Joyce in the Christmas Parade... as always, they were looking great! They looked like they were having such a fun time too! I thought Telma might fall off the car for a second there but Tony had her back :). It's so enjoyable watching them together again! Here's hoping there are many more appearances in store for them and for us! |
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| Robin 11-26-05 7:16 AM |
Shout Out to Los Angeles Area Fans |
| So, anybody going to be
able to make it to tomorrow's Tower Records signing in Sherman Oaks? I'm
braving the traffic on the 405, past LAX and through the Sepulveda Pass -
and then hideous PARKING at the Galleria - to be there. Terri should be
there as well. Make sure you look us up if you do come. (Me, well, I've
said before that I was a fan back in the day, so you can guess my age....
since I'll have come straight from church, where I'm a reader, I'll be in my
Good Church Clothes - probably all in black - with a colorful scarf - and
with a fresh dye job to my no-longer-naturally brunette hair. <g>) Oh, and guess what I found at the family home on Thanksgiving in a back closet? - a vintage TOAD promotional poster. When "To Be With You" originally came out, the record company sent out really beautiful double-sized, double-sided, printed-on-cardboard posters of the cover for in-store display. The moment I saw one at The Wherehouse on Whittier Blvd., I begged the store manager for it when it came down. And he obliged. For some time I had it on my wall at the family home, but left it when I moved. There's some water damage to one corner, a tear in the other, but considering it's almost 30 years old, it's actually in better shape than I am. I'm bringing it tomorrow in hopes that the group will sign it. |
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Pat 11-26-05 10:45 AM |
Re: Shout Out to Los Angeles Area Fans |
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NOTE: TIME CHANGE OF TOWER SIGNING. IT IS NOW AT 2:00 P.M. ON
11/27/05 Robin, how fantastic that you found that memento! Who knows, maybe Tower Records will have a similar advertising poster that you can beg this store manager for! What a cool set that would make! |
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| John K. 11-23-05 9:08 PM |
TOAD autograph signing |
| I just read that they will be signing autographs. Does anyone know where? | |
Pat 11/26/05 10:42 AM |
Re: TOAD autograph signing |
| Currently they are
scheduled to appear at Tower Records on the dates indicated: Sherman Oaks:
11/27/05 |
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| Michael H. 11-22-05 11:48 AM |
Everything TOAD on Sale at Tower Records |
| Just when I thought it couldn't get any better with the release of the TOAD CD's and DVD's, Tower Records in Atlanta has a new display with nothing but the TOAD CD's and DVD's at the very front of the store. They are all on sale. They set up a special individual display where the Christmas CD's are on either side, the Yellow Ribbon box sets are along the bottom, the individual CD's each have their own rows and are separated by album, and the DVD's are placed in their own row. You can easily find your favorite TOAD CD because the front of the display allows you to see the front of each row of CD's. I scooped up a few CD's for Christmas gifts. The individual CD's are $9.99 and the Christmas CD is $13.99. The DVD's are around $36.99, I think. The Yellow Ribbon box set is also on sale, I don't remember how much. TOAD fans in Atlanta, get to Tower Records and fill up the counter with the gift of TOAD!! | |
Robin 11-22-05 9:15 PM |
Display at Tower Records, Torrance, California |
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John 11-22-05 10:07 PM |
I Lose It When I Don't Hear A Christmas Reunion CD Played Everyday |
| If you are thinking about
buying A Christmas Reunion CD BUY IT. The CD is so great. I have to hear the
CD at least 5 or 8 times a day. Every song is a 5 stars. I hope this well
make your decision to buy the CD. The group is a class act. Happy Holidays and God Bless John |
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Julie 11-23-05 11:23 AM |
Re: I Lose It When I Don't Hear A Christmas Reunion CD Played Everyday |
| Cute title John. I walk every day and have to take it with me on my little iPod Shuffle. With the weather getting colder and the fallen leaves crunching under my feet, it's the perfect accompany music. I must say though that I don't walk long enough to hear it 5 or 8 times a day! ;) | |
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| Julie 11-21-05 4:56 PM |
CNN Showbiz Tonight |
| Wow, what a really nice interview with Tony, Telma and Joyce on CNN Showbiz Tonight. They looked great and even talked about the possibility of a new album of brand new songs. They said that if the Christmas CD is well-received, which it has been so far, then it certainly is a possibility. Okay, John, that's your cue - get out there and sell, sell, sell! ;). Wow, and just when we thought Christmas couldn't get any better. | |
John 11-22-05 7:35 AM |
Re: CNN Showbiz Tonight |
| It was a great interview
with Tony, Joyce and Telma. They looked awesome. We all have to make sure to
promote the Christmas Reunion CD, You heard what Tony said If this Christmas
Reunion CD does well they probably will record a new CD. Lets keep our
fingers cross. Happy Holidays and God Bless John |
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Pat 11-22-05 7:53 AM |
Re: CNN Showbiz Tonight |
| It was great seeing them on TV again and I thought the interviewer did a FABULOUS job. He included all of them in the interview and treated them very respectfully. It was funny that he didn't answer the question about where he was when Yellow Ribbon was released. I wondered if he was even born! One of the best interviews so far. I am happy that they are keeping up the talk about a new CD release. | |
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| Julie 11-20-05 6:34 PM |
Telma and her BET Comedy Award |
| There are some nice pictures of Telma with her 2005 BET Comedy Award at: www.gettyimages.com Just do a search for Telma Hopkins and at this point they are first on the list. Perhaps soon there might be some of today's Tower Records signing there as well. | |
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| Joyce
Vincent 11-18-05 11:03 PM |
A Christmas Reunion |
| Hello Everyone, Just wanted to let you all know how much I appreciate all the wonderful things you've said about our CD. I am so glad that I am not the only one who thinks it is wonderful. At first I was thinking that I was partial to it and maybe its not as good as I thought it was. But then after receiving all of the good and positive responses from everyone, I guess its not just me. I am so proud of this CD til I'm just beside myself. I hope you all will enjoy this CD as much as I have. I wish all a wonderful Thanksgiving and holiday season. And I hope you all get your hearts desires. Take Care all, Joyce Vincent |
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Pat 11-18-05 11:59 PM |
Re: A Christmas Reunion |
| Joyce, Thanks for stopping by and posting again! We always enjoy hearing from you. Yes, we do love the Christmas CD and hope that it will lead to bigger and better things for you and the group. I do want to wish you very safe travels to New York and please stay warm! If I could be there, I would. I'd like to extend my wishes to you for a wonderful Thanksgiving and Holiday Season as well! (and let's not forget your birthday coming up too!). | |
Julie 11-19-05 8:31 PM |
Re: A Christmas Reunion |
| Hi Joyce, I hope you have a great time in New York! Those of us who can't be there will be watching out there in TV Land! And Congratulations on the success of the Christmas CD. It is, without a doubt, THE best Christmas gift all of us TOAD fans will get this year!! | |
John 11-19-05 9:05 PM |
Re: A Christmas Reunion |
| Joyce, I'm so glad that
you post to the board. I really love this Christmas CD. I have all of my
Christmas shopping done, everyone I know is getting the Christmas Reunion
CD, DVDs and CDs. If I had to rate this Christmas CD it would be a
10+++++++++ and I mean that from the bottom of my heart. Have fun in New
York. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays. Love Ya!!! John |
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Sarah 11-19-05 10:05 PM |
Re: A Christmas Reunion |
| Hi Ms Vincent, The Christmas CD is wonderful. I got mine a couple of weeks ago and my whole family loves it. We have family coming from out of state, for a Thanksgiving/Christmas party, so we've decorated early. As we were putting up the Christmas tree, I put the CD on. It was perfect. You all did a wonderful job, and I'm telling everyone that I can to make sure that they buy the CD. Thank you very much and have a wonderful time in New York. Merry Christmas! Sarah. |
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Mary 11-22-05 10:23 AM |
Re: A Christmas Reunion |
| Joyce, it is so wonderful to see your post on this website. Your new Christmas CD is just amazing!! I've loved you guys for over 30 years now and getting the chance to hear you again on a new CD is just so incredible! I felt like 13 again walking into the record store and seeing a new TOAD album..what a thrill!! All of your voices sound better than ever. I love all the songs. I listen to it everyday in my car while I'm driving my kids all over the place. I've been watching the interviews that you have done together recently and it just brings back great memories. I'd love to see you guys tour again sometime. I do still see Tony often but I'd love to see you and Telma with him again someday. The last time I saw you perform together live, was that night in Cohasset Massachusetts when Tony broke down on-stage in 1977. What a horrible night that was. After all these years it's wonderful knowing you're all well and going strong! I'm so happy for you!! You guys are the BEST! | |
| Reply |
| Elizabeth 11-16-05 9:04 AM |
Tickets to Tony Orlando show |
| Dear Julie, I am a member of the fan club and have been for a year. I purchased tickets for Tony's Christmas Show at the Mohegan Sun for December 14 - December 19. I made a mistake with Ticket Master and ordered more tickets than what I need for December 14. I ordered four more than what I need. I would like to sell these tickets to other fans, so that they can enjoy the show also. Do you know of anyone who would be interested? I cannot receive e-mails, so please try to post your response. Thank you, Elizabeth |
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Julie 11-19-05 7:05 AM |
Re: Tickets to Tony Orlando show |
| Hi Elizabeth: I don't know of anyone off-hand who would be interested, but maybe someone in the area who reads the board might be. |
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Pat 11-19-05 10:21 AM |
Re: Tickets to Tony Orlando show |
| Elizabeth, we never post personal contact information on this board, so if someone is interested, I would ask that they post that to the board. Then you can provide me with your contact info and I will forward that separately to the interested person. | |
| Reply |
| John 11-12-05 9:00 AM |
Promoting A Christmas Reunion CD |
Hello to all the TOAD
fans, I really want this to be the best selling Christmas CD ever. WE
all have to make this happen. Here are the thing I do to promote the CD:
Does anyone else have any ideas of things we can all do to promote this CD to help help it go platinum? CJ? Anybody? All I am trying to say is that I want this to sell so TOAD will record more hit records and also do some promotional appearances. I still cannot believe in 2005 that TOAD are back and made a Christmas CD and their TV shows are on DVD and their records on CDs. Thanks Brant, John, Nate and R2 team for all of your hard work and making
all of our dreams come true. |
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Pat 11-12-05 10:22 PM |
Re: Promoting A Christmas Reunion CD |
John, I can see you doing
all of these things. I'm sure there is a sales spike in the Charlotte
area. You are the Energizer Bunny of promotion.
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Del 11-13-05 7:28 PM |
Re: Promoting A Christmas Reunion CD |
| John, You are doing an awesome job! You've really taken "TOAD It Forward" to heart. Only thing I can add is if in a store where the CD can be listened to, invite them to give it a listen, and maybe suggest the store have it on in-store play. We can also write and e-mail the talk show hosts-even send them CDs. Right now a major focus is the radio stations that are in the all holiday mode. There is at least one in most of the major markets. We really need to be hitting these stations with requests. This is something even fans who can't get out much can do, and don't be afraid to contact stations across the nation via e-mail. Stations know people listen long distance through the internet. For example, www.sunny1045.com is the all holiday music here in the Philly market. ANYONE anywhere can listen and submit requests online. | |
Pat 11-13-05 9:24 PM |
Re: Promoting A Christmas Reunion CD |
| Del, what exciting displays and promotions do you have in your store? I'll bet you've gone all out. Care to share either a description or some photos? | |
John 11-17-05 8:07 PM |
Re: Promoting A Christmas Reunion CD |
| Thanks Del and Pat for
your input.
I did as you say and it worked they are playing the Christmas CD in the stores also they are going to order more copies. I also think we all need to email radio stations cross the nation and then tell them radio stations in other parts of the country are playing the TOAD Christmas CD. Ask your local station music director or radio programming department to play the TOAD Christmas CD. Also I have been calling the corporate offices of Target and Best Buy asking them why they are not carrying the Christmas CD? They took my name, phone number, address and gave me a reference number. We all need to call the guest relations department and ask about the TOAD Christmas CD. The number for Target is 1-800-440-0680 and for Best Buy 1-888-237-8289. Let's help to make this CD go PLATINUM. Also let's make a list of different radio stations that play Christmas music and all the TOAD fans can email or phone different songs on the Christmas CD. Don't forget about your satellite radio stations. Both MusicChoice and XM Radio have Holiday Music Channels. Follow this link to request Holiday Music on MusicChoice. Select Sounds of the Seasons for the Music Channel and then Music Programming for the subject. In the text box type your request. For XM Radio follow this link to request TOAD Holiday Music and fill out the form. Note that XM Radio holiday programming runs from 11/25-12/25. If anybody has any other ideas please email us your thoughts. The
TOAD fans have to stick together because they are back and we want them to
stay together. Let's keep promoting. Have a nice Thanksgiving. All
TOAD fans have alot to be thankful for. |
|
John 11-29-05 7:02 AM |
Re: Promoting A Christmas Reunion CD |
| Here is the phone number
for the XM Satellite Radio Holiday request line and also you can leave a
holly gram message for TOAD the number is: 1-866-267-0442. I had called to
request Christmas In New York, Spirit Of Christmas, Savior's Day and Ave
Maria/O Holy Night. I will call later today to request other songs on the
CD. All the TOAD fans need to call and request different songs also. Let's
help to make this CD go number ONE. Happy Holidays John |
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| Reply |
| Pat 11-12-05 10:56 PM |
TOAD in Manhattan |
| TOAD is scheduled to appear at the Tower Records at Lincoln Center on Sunday, November 20th, 6:00 p.m. | |
| Reply |
| Pat 11-10-05 11:23 PM |
TOAD in Sherman Oaks |
| TOAD is scheduled to appear at the Tower Records in Sherman Oaks, California on Sunday, November 27th, 3:00 p.m. For more information click here (and scroll to bottom of page). | |
| Reply |
| Pat 11-09-05 11:23 PM |
TOAD is headed to New York November 19th |
| The current news is that
they will be winging their way to the Big Apple on November 19th.
While in New York they will make an appearance on Fox and Friends and also schedule a couple of signings for the Christmas CD/DVD/Box Set in the New York area. As soon as we have further details you will read about it here. For those on the West Coast there will also be signings at Tower Records in the Portland and Seattle areas after their appearance at the R2 Christmas Party on the December 11th (a private event). They will also be doing signings in the Sherman Oaks area. Again, specifics will be provided as soon as we have them! Remember, Christmas presents of the CD/DVD/Box Set are all much better if you have the personalized by the artist to the giftee! |
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Julie 11-09-05 6:39 PM |
Re: TOAD is headed to New York November 19th |
| Yay! Looks like schedules were worked out! Well, here in the middle of the country we may not get to see them in person but at least we can watch them on TV - the next best thing to being there :). | |
| Reply |
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