IAT
NEWSLETTER
October 2004
Dedicated in loving memory, to our mentor and friend,
John Denver
(Also, Happy 60th Birthday to Taffy Danoff!)
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"IT'S ABOUT TIME WE BEGIN IT,
TO TURN THE WORLD AROUND . . . "
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ORGANIZATION INFORMATION
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Co-Founder/Former President - Marcelle
Orswell (notmartha2@yahoo.com)
Co-Founder and Secretary -- Theresa Shea (Tree1A@aol.com)
Co-Founder/Webpage Designer-Sandy Clark (tybrenn@comcast.net)
Co-Presidents -- Ann Schnitz (aerie01@comcast.net) and
Mary Ledford (eagleshorses@yahoo.com)
Web Site -- -- http://home.comcast.net/~tybrenn/iat/
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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
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Dear Friends,
I cranked up my Walkman as loud as my eardrums would permit and listened to John
sing "Rocky Mountain High" to me as my plane began to make its initial
descent into Denver. Iím home. Coming home to a place I *have* been before. But to
tell the truth, home would be wherever my friends are, who I would see in scant minutes.
We could easily have this celebration anywhere in the world, and so long as they
were with me, it would mean every bit as much. Sure, Aspen is lovely and the Rockies
are awe-inspiring. But my heart would be every bit as full of love were we in Chicago
or LA or downtown Pagosa Springs. The "where" doesnít really matter.
We had yet another wonderful trip this year. The aspens had a lot of golden leaves
still clinging to their trembling branches, and it made the mountains truly magnificent.
As we traveled south through Colorado and then into New Mexico, we saw more and more
color. It was our first time in Ouray, a town many of you have already discovered
for yourselves, and we fell in love with the place (particularly the hot springs!).
Next was Mesa Verde National Park, and its wonderous ruins that hold stories of lives
from long ago ó incredible and too bad we only had a day there. Then it was down
to Taos, NM, where we relaxed and shopped and ate and decompressed (very nice to
meet up with some other friends down there too!). All too soon, it was time to head
back home, toting our pictures and souvenirs and memories. Wow ó how fast ten days
went!
But what of Aspen? For us, it is a hectic weekend of events and meetings and rushing
around. In the end, though, it is all worth it, to see such good friends we only
get to spend time with once a year, and to experience the love that people feel for
John and each other. I hope you all get a chance to join us some day.
Let me take this opportunity, on behalf of our Board, to thank all of you who attended
and donated to our Peace Cloth event and/or saw us at Windstar, and supported us
so generously. Another big thank you goes out to Chris Collins and the Canyon Creek
Band for their great performance. We couldnít do it without each and every one of
you ó and not just those in Aspen -- and it thrills us to know that the Cloth project
is a meaningful part of your lives. We love you all.
And thanks, too, to those who contributed to this monthís newsletter. I hope you
are all as inspired as I was to read these tales, and to continue to fight the good
fight. Keep your stories about your October travels coming in, if you havenít sent
them yet.
My heart to yours,
Ann
PS ó Donít forget to vote on Nov 2nd!!!
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QUOTE OF THE MONTH
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Experience is not what happens to you, it
is what you do with what happens to you. - Aldous Huxley
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FUNDRAISER
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Nothing to report this month
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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November 13, 2004 - Flanders, NJ - Christopher
Westfall at Crossroads Coffeehouse 8:00pm http://www.crossroadsmtolive.org/coffeehouse.htm
November 13, 2004 - U.K. - Autumn Denver Day at the Avenue Bowling Club, Gaveston
Road, Coundon, Coventry. http://www.fojd.org.uk
December 11, 2004 -- Haddon Heights, NJ -- Christopher Westfall, 8 PM, one 50-minute
set at Mary's Place Coffeehouse at St. Mary's Episcopal Church. Visit: http://www.marysplacemusic.org/
ALSO: Mack Bailey has just recently become a member of The Limeliters, the legendary
folk trio that originally took its name from the Limelite in Aspen, where many now
stay for the tribute week in October. Mack is performing concerts across the nation,
with dates being added all the time. His schedule is available at www.mackbailey.com/schedule.htm
. Also, Mack announces plans for his second Concert Trip to Ireland, with Kevin Brooks
and John Sommers, March 15 - 22, 2005. Includes St. Patrick's Day in Dublin, tours,
concerts, and a fabulous trip around Ireland. For details, see: http://www.mackbailey.com/Ireland.htm
(thanks to Emily Parris and the Rocky Mountain High newsletter for many of these
dates; thanks too, to Karen Tupek for keeping us up to date with Mack Bailey's schedule
and Deb Sanderson for news of events in California)
REMINDER::: The John Denver Memorial Peace Cloth is available for all JD-related
events. Please email peaceclothinfo@yahoogroups.com for more information, or see our website at www.johndenverpeacecloth.com
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LETTERS
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ASPEN
*
From Mary Ledford (eagleshorses@yahoo.com):
Hi ya!
"LET THIS BE A VOICE" - Our event in Aspen went very well. Mack, Pete and
Chris did a wonderful round
robin for about 90 minutes and Mack relayed to me that it was the most fun they'd
had all weekend! Before they started, Amanda from Challenge Aspen spoke briefly about
the organization and the scholorship fund for which they are currently raising money.
I invite all of you to visit their website (www.challengeaspen.com) and check this
out ... it's a fantastic organization.
During the rehearsal on Thursday evening, Challenge Aspen presented a slide show
and Mack sang "I Want To Live." It moved me to tears! The equipment that
enables the physically challenged to do outdoor sports is just amazing.
Jim Salestrom joined us this year, and sang two of my most favorite songs "Bristlecone
Pine" and "Queen Anne's Lace" from his CD "Music From The Mountains."
Kenn Roberts joined Jim on the latter as it's his favorite song too! If you don't
have that CD, that's a must! He also has a new CD out "Fresh Tracks" which
is beautiful too. You can check is website: www.jimsalestrom.com.
Mark Cormican was also with us and delighted us with his sitirical "Ballad of
Bill Clinton" ... a re-make so to speak of the great Tom Paxton tune, "The
Balland of Gary Hart!" Christopher Canyon gave us a presentation on the newest
book, "Ancient Rhymes" and also sang the song. The next book in the series
will be "Take Me Home, Country Roads."
We raised a little over $2,000 in our auction which will be split between the Expect
A Miracle Now Foundation (www.expectamiraclenow.org) and The Aspen Camp School for
The Deaf (www.acsd.org). Pam and I actually got a chance to visit the Camp and it's
a wonderful place. It's about 3-4 miles beyond Windstar and what a beautiful setting
for sure! The work they do with the kids is fantastic ... the ages range from 8 to
18 and they can handle about 45 kids at one time. I would encourage all of you to
take a little time next year to visit them. One of the girls who works there is a
graduate of Galudet College in Washington, DC.
This year's Golden Eagle Award was presented to Christopher Canyon and Dawn Publications
for their extraordinary work in continuing John's vision through their wonderful
children's book series. Congratulations you guys!!
Finally, I would like to thank everyone who donated items to the auction as well
as special thank yous to Carol Blevins and Dottie Honer for their generous donation
and to Dawn Publications, as they are donating 50% of the proceeds from the sale
of "Ancient Rhymes." And of course a very special thank you to all our
performers ... you guys always make it special!!! And another special thank you to
Gordon Wilder, our sound engineer ... you made those guys sound GREAT!!!!
See you next year!!!
Mary
PS -- LIVE AT THE CASA: This new CD was recorded live in Scottsdale, AZ on December
31, 2003. This concert took place on what would have been John's 60th birthday and
it was fantastic. Chris Nole produced it and did a masterful job ... the CD includes
all of us singing "Happy Birthday" to John and concludes with
"Country Roads." The CD is available at www.chrisnole.com or www.thecasa.org
(click on 'special events') This show will take place again this year ... for information
on this and last year's show, also visit www.thecasa.org ... click on 'special events'.
*****
From Michele Philips (MP996@aol.com):
Songs from the Heart
There are many things of beauty in the world. A perfect (or imperfect even) rose,
the laughter of a child, the glory of a colorful sunset. But, to me, there is nothing
to compare to the beauty of the human heart as it comes together to share its gifts.
October 8th, 2004 in Aspen was one of the days that exemplified all aspects of beauty.
The sky was the brilliant higher elevation blue of Colorado, the sun was as warm
as the smiles, and the hearts were open, both ready to give and receive the gifts
of music, words and love.
A group of about 50 people joined together at the Pitkin County assisted Living Center
just outside the city limits to sing for the residents and a few developmentally
disabled adults. The songs were John Denver favorites, ones that you find yourselves
humming in your mind. The seniors met us with happiness, as this was our fifth year
singing, and they have come to look forward to our songfest. Most sing right along,
even some who knew John Denver personally in some aspect. Small gifts of remembrance
are given out, tiny bead angels donated by Wildlife Creations.
This year, four developmentally disabled adults and their two caregivers joined us,
two of them standing with the performers and leading the songs. The joy on the faces
of Tracy and Tom is a ray of sunshine that can light the darkest of days.
This event only lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, but it kicks off a weekend of
giving that carries many who participate through the rest of the year. Some years,
we have been saddened to know that someone we knew from the year before has passed,
but we remember him or her in our harts and know they still have a front row seat,
and are clapping and singing along.
So, when Aspen 2005 rolls around, on the Friday morning of the Celebration weekend,
listen for the voices rehearsing in Wagner Park. We have many locals who stop to
listen, sing, and ask what we are doing. We take the show on the road around lunchtime
to the residents of the ALC, sometimes with a few more than we started with. Join
us, and see the light that shines from the faces of those who have been given a pure
gift from the heart.
*****
From Terry Nolan (Terriace@aol.com)
My first visit to Aspen could not have been more perfect except to have John Denver
alive there in the flesh. The mountains, golden aspen and cotton wood trees, beautiful
blue skies and a large group of very wonderful people from all over the world made
this trip most memorable.
My husband, Don, and I arrived on Wednesday, the 6th, in a dreary, drizzling rain.
We prayed the nasty weather wouldn't continue the rest of the week while there. What
a pleasant surprise to awaken on Thursday to the most gorgeous blue skies and sunshine!
Wow! But I'm ahead of myself....
After checking in at the Limelight, I hung around the guest lounge, trying to find
John Denver fans. Well, all of them there were fans. They were the nicest people
from Great Britain who had a whole bus tour staying there for John Denver tributes
and local sights to see. A few brought their own guitars and later that evening I
joined them again in the guest lounge to listen to them play and sing along with
Ron Rich. It was a most pleasant, cozy place to be.
We also strolled over the Mountain Chalet to listen to that group of JD folk sing
too. Taking care not to run into bears on the way, the streets of Aspen were mostly
empty and silent. Deb and Keith Perry were over at the Mt. Chalet and it was a pleasure
to put faces to other names I'd recognized over the last several years. There are
so many others that I can't remember so I won't even try. Just know they were all
great people.
I did meet Ann at the Peace Cloth auction but I doubt we'd remember each other (yes,
I do remember you, Terry! ó AS). I do know that I got to buy the vest with golden
aspen leaves painted on them by Maureen Sullivan that I had bid on during the Peace
Cloth party/concert that Friday afternoon.
There were so many activities and concerts! I know I did not make them all but tried
to get in as many as I could. The concerts Don and I attended were the Ron Rich show
at the district theater there in the local school on Thursday night in a great school
theater run by the students. We saw Chris Collins Friday afternoon with the Peace
Cloth group where I met and took pictures of Erma, her sister Edna and Johnís brother,
Ron. That was a great show and it was nice to see Ron present his Mom the annual
award from the Peace Cloth board.
Friday night found us at the Wheeler Opera House for the first of three concerts
we saw there. The first two were performed by John's old and new band members, some
of whom I can't recall their names. Mack Bailey, Bill Danoff, John Sommers, Chris
Nole, Pete Hutlinger, Jim Horn were there -- just to name a few. Lord, my memory
is so bad! Anyway, the Friday night concert really rocked the place and they played
for three hours with a short intermission. Saturday's concert was a little shorter
as there were two concerts with Paul Stookey as guest. Instead of three hours, it
was just a little over two hours. Both nights were spectacular, and as always, nary
a dry eye at the end with the spotlight on John's guitar, a vase of red roses and
the recording of John himself singing This Old Guitar. No matter how good all the
shows were, we missed John terribly. Make no mistake, though, John's spirit was definitely
there! We saw Erma and Aunt Edna there the first night and I believe the second night
too. Ron was there somewhere, just didn't see exactly where. Of course, when John
Denver ends the song, the recording says "Good night everybody. Gee, I love
you guys" or something like that. Lord, Niagara falls fell from my eyes. Whew!
We actually didn't have a concert Sunday night but did attend the Windstar festivities
out there in Snowmass all day Sunday. Some folks stayed for the campfire sing-a-long,
but after 6 hours out there, we were very tired and went back to the Limelight.
Windstar was a lovely, peaceful place to just browse around and meet folks. I climbed
to the top of one of the hills where there was a round, wooden deck on top overlooking
the meadow below. Two horseback riders trotted along the pond there in the meadow
with the snowcapped mountains in the background. There was a chilled breeze most
of the afternoon and it became even chillier as the sun went down. We all gathered
in the tent to listen and sing with John Adams, Chris Collins and others to John's
songs, naturally. Portions of the Peace Cloth were strung around the tent area as
a back drop. Chris Collins danced with Erma as Back Home Again, Erma's favorite,
was sung by all. Storm clouds began to gather as evening approached. Winds became
rather chilly and we thought for sure a thunderstorm was about to blow in. Fortunately,
it didn't happen as I know some folks would have been sadly disappointed if they
could not have stayed for the sing-a-long at the campfire. Hopefully, Windstar made
some cash there on Sunday with admittance and auction items.
Monday night found us back at the Wheeler Opera house for John Adams' concert and
it was fantastic. Thankfully, John chose to sing songs that weren't heard as much
during the other concerts including Yellowstone, Coming Home and a song I had not
heard before, The Wandering Soul. He sang Boy From the Country, which I love, The
Wings that Fly Us Home and Goodbye, My Friend, the song written to John after his
passing. All the songs made me cry as Ron D. sat in front of me in the first row
singing right along with others. It was a joy to meet Mr. Adams, Chris Collins and
Ron Rich. I really enjoyed them all.
During the times away from concerts, we hiked around Maroon Bells and up to Ashcroft,
the mining ghost town, through Snowmass and around town in Aspen itself. We attended
Sunday morning mass there at St. Mary's Catholic Church where I met my Baton Rouge
pal, Kathy.
A visit there in Aspen would not be complete without visiting John's Sanctuary. On
another gorgeous, sunshiny morning, Don and I took many photos and sat on the stones
surrounding the memorial as we soaked up as much of the beauty as we could. It's
a beautiful, peaceful place to just sit, reflect, read or even nap. John would approve
wholeheartedly. It's a very tasteful tribute to such a warm, humorous, intelligent,
brilliant, and multitalented man as John Denver. Oh how I miss him! Perhaps I'll
get to go back in 2007, God willing.
Terry Nolan, New Orleans
*****
From "Spirit" - Windstar Connections
Some of our members were able to go to Aspen in Septmeber this year for the Windstar
Symposium and I wanted to send along a few thoughts from each ó Nancy Huffman:
From Pat Smolinski
Windstar.. to be alone on the Windstar land, to wander around and relax on the meditation
platform; to spot the timid elks waiting to cross from mountainside to mountainside;
to view the awesome meadows, lakes and mountains; and to watch the the early evening
sky first glow in the awesome sunset and then become a heavenly body in the night
time silenceÖ This was given for us all to enjoyÖa cherished gift.
"Thank You John"
Symposium: The importance of the Symposium cannot be understated. The presentations
given by the Rocky Mountain Institute, Al Worden, Astronaut on Apollo 15, Bill Nye
The Science Guy, Greenpeace, The Goodall Institute, The Buckminster Fuller Institute
and others were absolutely wonderful, providing the audience of adults as well as
school children comprehensive and easy to understand information on their respective
topics.
There are so many different issues and ways to help preserve our environment and
there is something that everyone can do. This was the dominant themeÖto choose an
area that you feel is important to you and focus on that one thing, no matter how
big or small. If we all focus on that, one person doing one thing will then become
two people doing two things, and then three people, doing three things and so on
and so onÖ.the power of one (as was stated) is very strong.
I was impressed at the interest derived from the school children that were in attendance,
as well as questions from the internet. This is the future, and it will be our children
who will be the next fighters for our planet. This is where the emphasis should be
spreading.
So hats off to Ron for organizing this wonderful environmental symposium and also
having the forsight to have it telecast so that school children could tune in across
the country!!
From Patty Speicher
My most memoriable day was just seeing the excitement in Ron's eyes during the Symposium.
Just wanted to add that a big "Thank You" should go out to Ron and his
helpers for organizing/carrying out the Symposium. They worked so hard all year to
get it organized. Ron was exhausted by the end of the day, hardly able to stand up,
and I believe he worked the hardest. He was very enthusiastic with the kids, telling
them "they can change the world!" John, I'm sure, is very proud of what
his brother accomplished in putting Windstar back on the map.
From Ann Marie Mc Crone
I've still not come down from my Rocky Mt. High after that glorious week! I am so
glad I was in the Rockies at that time, and didn't decide to go out, as usual, during
the memorial week. I thought I had seen beautiful scenery in
previous years, but nothing could compare to what I witnessed this time around. Never
knew some aspens turn red! I was in awe, and try to relate what I experienced with
photos, but, as you know, you've just got to be there!
Regarding Barb Davis and her presentation at the conference, she said that music
is a part of every single culture, and that everything that presents in nature is
musical. She invited each of us to take a brief walk/hike/sit on the Windstar property
and really listen to the music around us. The first thing I heard was the wind's
song. In fact, I had taken off the top of my water bottle to have a drink, and immediately
I heard a hum, similar to the Buddhists' O-O-O-H-H-H-M-M-M, that was produced by
the wind blowing over my partially-filled water bottle. It reminded me of John's
" Windsong", and I realized how that song came to be. John was so in touch
with nature. And the Symposium was beyond my expectations. The presenters were extraordinary,
I thought, and I was impressed by the attendance, especially having so many school
children participating. I'm so glad for Ron and those who worked so hard to put such
a gargantuan project together. Sure hope this is going to be an annual event.
And for my remarks (Nancy)...
I came home a difference person than when I arrived. My last trip was in October
and lots of fun, but this was more serious and introspective. The symposium was wonderful
and opened up a whole new door for Windstar. The next generation ....the children
and the flowers as John said ....will lead us...to find a better way. The students
in attendance, including my own 15 year old daughter who came with me, were perfect
examples of this. They lined up and waited to ask questions all day long.They were
quite an inspiration themselves.
Hopefully the Aspen events will continue and be coordinated so that all may enjoy
them. Everyone should have the opportunity to attend. T
The Connections Conference was also inspirational. Beginning with the opening around
the Spirit statue and all throughout the day ...each moment blended perfectly into
the next.The weather was outstanding and the mountain breezes cleansing. John Milton's
meditations left us peaceful and centered. Sitting around the campfire at Windstar
under a full moon was the perfect ending to the day....including the hike into the
meadowlands by moonlight. FAROUT!!!!
Thank you Ron and thank you John......till the next trip!!!!
Nancy Huffman ..........."Spirit"
PS -- We held the last highway cleanup for this year. This is a stretch of highway
that has been maintained by PA Friends of John Denver and since Spirit was formed,
we do it together. A great day for it too. The weather was beautiful but somehow
that just always seems to happen when we get together for John's work.
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PACIFIC GROVE
*
From Deb (PixieDmyr@aol.com):
Once again, the weather was gorgeous for the Sunday event. We had a fog bank move
through, but the morning was clear and mild, perfect for a beach cleanup. The cleanup
group collected 60 gallons of trash over all - we filled 2, 30-gallon bags with debris
of all kinds. As in past years, the majority of the garbage picked up was cigarette
butts. Is it any wonder California is in the midst of declaring a series of beaches
"no smoking" areas? The really astounding thing is that the California
Coastal Cleanup Day was the month before, on September 17th. They cleaned up 860,000
pounds of trash from all over the state.... and still, there's more.
There's obviously still a long way to go in educating people about pollution, litter,
and the effect all this garbage has on Spaceship Earth and all those who travel on
her.
Our enthusiastic group of raffle participants raised $160.00 that we split between
Friends of the Monarchs and Plant-It 2020. Not bad for an afternoon's work in Lovers
Point Park!
During the tribute that afternoon, we listened to John Denver CDs on the boombox,
and Marie Falcone read the letter she wrote to share with the Aspen group at the
campfire. Weather in Los Angeles grounded our Long EZ pilot, but we got our flyby
after all - from a pelican squadron, flying in formation over John Denver Beach and
out toward the water!
We sang along with John Denver, we cried, we shared stories, we laughed and chatted
with people who've become friends over the last 7 years, and met more people for
the first time. More than once, I've chatted or emailed with people who say the same
thing - there are people in our lives that have become our best friends, people we
are so glad we met and whose absence would be keenly felt.
And then we share the wish that I believe each of us makes, maybe only once a year
and maybe only very early in the morning when the world is dark and silent and we
can't sleep, that we wish we'd never *had* to meet all these new people, never had
to learn where Pacific Grove CA was on the map, never had to know what a Long EZ
plane was, never had to rearrange our lives each October and never had to make room
in our lives for all these new friends and all this new grief.
The raw edges of the grief wear down slightly as time passes. It's a different process
for everyone, and everyone works through it in their own way. But all of these new
friends we have share this same grief, and so once a year we know we all have a place
we can go for compassion, for people with whom we can share "All this joy, all
this sorrow, all this promise, all this pain." Because we know that each of
these new friends understands: "Such is life, such is being, such is spirit,
such is love."
Peace, Love and Understanding:
John Denver: The Legacy Continues...
*****
From Sandie Tyler:
This year my husband and I attended the Pacific Grove event for the 7th time. Although
this yearís event was shorter in duration, being a one day event instead of 2 or
3, it was still a memorable day of getting together with old and new friends.
The day started at "John's Beach" at 10am. Approximately 30 or so of us
gathered there to begin the annual beach clean-up. A table was set up at that location
with information about John and his causes along with various other John-related
items. There is a log on the beach up near the turn-out road for the beach that has
John's name carved into it. That log has been there since the gathering that took
place a few days after his plane crashed off that beach. Flowers and pictures of
John were placed along the log . Many of us set off to clean the beach while others
stayed and chatted and met each other on the beach. I don't recall the actual amount
of trash that was collected but it was a good amount for such a small group to gather
in a short amount of time.
At noon, we moved our gathering down a mile and a half to Lovers Point Park. It was
a beautifully clear and warm day as we sat on the lawn of that park and gazed out
over the bay and ocean. It was the kind of day and view that John cherished and wrote
about in songs. Several people brought their guitars and mandolins and as we sat
with picnic lunches, people played and we all sang. This went on for several hours
and drew others from the park to our group to listen and join in. It is always special
to see others enjoy Johnís music or to discover or rediscover it for the first time.
A table with info on John was also set up at the park along with several picture
boards with photos of John, family, fans, events and information. Many people who
were walking through the park stopped to look at the boards and to ask questions.
It was a very enjoyable and relaxing afternoon for all. A fan was even there from
as far away as Holland. Many of us gathered there return each year and have become
friends just like those of you who go to Aspen.
Around 5 p.m., we all went back to John's beach for a candlelight vigil and to hear
John on a DVD player . It is always moving to hear John's voice singing as you look
out over the ocean and the area he last saw himself. That may sound morbid but it
really is not . It is a moving but beautiful and special place. Although we did not
have a "fly over" of Long E-Zees this year, a group of pelicans in formation
graced us with a double-back "fly'by" that is always so beautiful to watch
.
The evening ended with many of us meeting at the local pizza parlor called "
Gianni's " in Pacific Grove which is the same place we meet each year on this
night. It was fun getting together and sad to say good-bye until next year. My husband
and I stayed on in the area for several more days. We came away relaxed and peaceful
and happy to have seen everyone and to share the joy and specialness of John and
his music with others who feel the same way. To anyone contemplating coming to Pacific
Grove in future years, I can only say that although we don't have the number or "quality"
of events that take place in Aspen, Pacific Grove is still a very special place to
come to remember John and share with others in a smaller, more intimate group. We
welcome everyone and anyone. You are close to nature and many of the things John
loved ( like the ocean and golf !!!)
Well, that is my story of Pacific Grove - 2004. I hope to see all my friends , old
and new, next year! Sandie Tyler
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ALL OTHER POINTS N, S, E, and W
*
From Judy Therrien:
First Annual Tahoe John Denver Windstar Weekend, September 10-12, 2004 - Lake Tahoe
California Windstar Connection Group - John Denver Tribute
The first annual Tahoe John Denver Windstar Weekend was a resounding success, due
to Joel Hannel and Bill Templin working hard to make a musical fun weekend for all!
Everyone who went on Saturday and heard so many singers of John Denver songs, were
warmed to the heart all the way from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm by live music! Listeners
will never forget Joel and Tim Durnan's songs and all are looking forward to the
same celebration next year! More than $225.00 was raised for Windstar.
*****
From Susan Leaver:
I have just returned from annual tribute to John Denver, held at Taupo, NZ, for the
third year in a row.
There is always so much preparation for these occasions that, often, I have wondered
if they will turn out successfully -- they DO -- perfectly if you let Spirit take
charge.
Members came from different points of the North Island to connect at a national retreat
centre named Tauhara. Like Windstar, the centre is dedicated to achieving and maintaining
global harmony and balance in the universe - even the buildings look similar! Situated
on the shores of Lake Taupo, the surroundings transmitted a strong pure energy.
On the edge of the cliff overlooking the lake is a special stone carved by a Maori
person to celebrate mother earth. I couldn't help bursting into "the earth is
our mother just turning around............"
Later, Fred, who owns a farm in the wilderness, came to transport us to his and wife
Liz's home. We've had a lot of rain here recently so the earth shone like a jewel.
For the rest of the day we watched videos of John's movies, listened to the Wheeler
Opera House tribute CD, and ate large. Liz is an excellent cook. In between, a few
of us viewed Fred's handiwork as an international western saddle maker.
We were truly having many "heart to heart" conversations - John would be
happy.
The next morning, we met by Lake Taupo (the largest lake in the southern hemisphere)
to walk and reflect on the main reason we have travelled to gather in the middle
of the North Island. Occasionally, we burst into song -- "Thank you for this
precious day, these gifts you give to me," "Oh, I love the life within
me, I feel a part of everything I see."
As we walked onto one of the lake's jetties, we noticed that many of the royal blue
ducks were still asleep - and this was 8am!!
After a period of silence, we made a wreath of native flowers and leaves. The dedication
was as June, and so aptly put,"Giving thanks for John and all the others who
work for a better world."
Susan Leaver ó http://www.IJDMF.org
*****
From Janette Frawley:
John Denver Weekend, Boonah, Queensland. 8 ó 10 October, 2004
The lead-up to the Higher Ground Australia annual gathering to celebrate the life
and music of John Denver began months ago with the usual preparations. Last week
was particularly exciting with the radio interview about our annual JD weekend on
the ABC radio, broadcast to southeast Queensland. This was a great introduction to
the weekend and we had a great response to the interview, with many people either
commenting on it or calling for more information.
Friday, 8th October heralded the beginning of gathering as we started to move toward
Boonah, Queensland. We had our core group of people from Victoria, New South Wales
and Queensland attending as well as many others who made the effort to travel great
distances to be with us. One of those people was Max Moore, who travelled up to Boonah
from Bowral NSW to be with us. Max was Johnís Australian tour manager and over the
years, they became very good friends. Maxís book, Some Days are Diamonds, was published
last year and as well as writing about many of his experiences in the Australian
entertainment industry, he has dedicated a couple of chapters to John. Of course,
we were all most excited to meet him and to talk to him and to ask him to sign our
copies of his book.
Friday evening started with a shared meal of casseroles, made by Margaret. We decided
to get the business part of the weekend out of the way making some important decisions
about the donation of the proceeds of the silent auction. Two small green visitors,
were found on the chairs on the balcony. A visit from Kermit and his relative! The
weekend was starting on the right foot.
Saturday brought a sunny, but hazy day due to the bushfires burning in the distance.
Some people still had to vote in the federal election, since they had not already
done so. After a visit to the local town market and the small township of Boonah,
we returned for lunch. We set up the Peace Cloth panel that we created to send to
the John Denver Memorial Peace Cloth. Some of us decided to drive around the local
area, stopping first at a lavender farm then driving on until we came to a sign pointing
to Maroon Dam. Suddenly we felt very close to Aspen! A short drive down to the dam
for a photo stop was in store. Photos were taken. Due to the smoke from the bushfires
in the surrounding area, it was difficult to see the mountains in the background.
Saturday night, we started our silent auction, drew the raffle and started our sing-a-long.
We also saw Maxís home video of the trip he and his wife took to Aspen to stay with
John. Such incredible images of the beautiful Rocky Mountains were shown to us.
Visitors from the local township of Boonah and Brisbane joined us as we sang and
played Johnís songs until the early hours of the morning. Alistair recited The Box,
The Ambulance in the Valley and the Peace Poem as the singers took a break.
On Sunday, we quickly prepared for our annual tree planting and reading of letters
from our global friends. This year, we planted five plants. Four shrubs ó one for
Higher Ground Australia, one for our global family, one for peace and for the reduction
of hunger and poverty across the world, and one for Merryl, Maxís wife who had passed
away earlier this year. Johnís tree was planted, then we each poured water that we
had brought from our homes into a bucket. This symbolic mixing of the water from
our homes was used to water Johnís tree. The plaque was placed in front and we stood
in silence for one minute. We then read the letters and greetings that were sent
from our friends across the world. We all felt very close to John during those special
moments.
One last activity before going home! At 12 noon, Alf Bodem of Australian Native Animal
Care arrived with a goshawk and a wedge-tail eagle to be released back into the wild
after being rehabilitated. Alf is a wealth of knowledge about birds and has worked
with them for many years. The hawk was released first. Alf removed the top off the
box and away it went, much to the curiosity of the magpies and other birds. Next
it was the turn of the eagle. Alf opened the top of the box and Ö. nothing. The eagle
did not move. Very gently, Alf lifted the head of the eagle and it majestically opened
its wings to their full span and it was gone. It flew to a nearby tree and perched
briefly before it flew to the next. Of course, we were all so awestruck that I am
sure none of us got a photo! Although we had intended playing The Eagle and the Hawk
while the release was happening, the song that was actually playing was Fly Away!
Appropriate? Absolutely, but you had to be there. This incredible weekend was almost
at an end, so we sat to eat our last meal together until next year. We also listened
to Alf present a talk about rehabilitation of birds. We also announced that we would
be donating a set of scales needed for accurately weighing the birds to Australian
Native Animal Care.
Last thing we did was watch the uncut video of the episode of ëThis is Your Lifeí
for Kevin Jacobsen. As you are probably aware, that was the episode when John came
out to surprise Kevin (and everyone else). This included John singing Perhaps Love,
which was cut from the original.
The proceeds of the silent auction after the scales are paid for will be donated
to the Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation. This is not connected to Australia Zoo,
but is a non-profit organisation that has been set up to raise awareness to protect
and enhance the natural environment. "When we discover just how serious the
plight is of our world's wildlife, we could think, ëHow can I help, I'm just one
person?í Well, you know, that's the only way that change has happened in this world
so far; with ONE person showing their passion for change." (Steve Irwin)
Next year, we are looking at the Batemanís Bay area of New South Wales for our gathering.
Janette
*****
From Netty Verburg (n.v.gasteren@hccnet.nl):
A few months ago, Michiel ten Brug and I have started a project to help save bears
and to take care of them after their ill-treatment. The bears who are saved have
found a new home in a Bearforest, a part of Ouwehands Zoo, Rhenen, The Netherlands.
To keep John's legacy, visions and his love for every breathing thing here on earth
alive, we wanted to buy a parcel [10 square metres] or more of the Bearforest in
name of John Denver.
It makes me glad to announce that thanks to the help and donations of many people
from foreign countries and from The Netherlands, we could buy a parcel of the Bearforest.
The parcel of land has the number 1231, John's birthday. Last week we received the
certificate of "ownership" from this parcel. You can watch the certificate
on the website: http://www.higherground.nl/BerenbosKavelVoorJohnDenver/index-EN.htm
On the billboard at the entrance of the Bearforest will be written the following
line: Together we can make a difference - John Denver
We are still hoping for your further support. Donations are very welcome. It would
be great if we could buy a second parcel of the forest in name of John Denver!
Netty Verburg,
The Netherlands
*****
From Anne Curry:
My husband, Jim Curry and I have been performing John Denverís music together for
more than 25 years. This year, we had an opportunity to present a John Denver show
on a Holland America Cruise Ship. We were scheduled to perform on the Amsterdam,
and would be onboard from October 8th thru the 14th. This was a very difficult decision
for us, because it would mean missing the Aspen gathering, which we have happily
attended for the last 5 years.
We decided to go ahead and take the cruise job, after all, since it would bring John's
music to a new audience. We joined the Amsterdam mid-cruise in Puerto Vallarta. What
a delight to perform on the Amsterdam! The theater was packed for both seatings the
night of our performance, and we were received with open arms and hearts by the passengers
on the cruise. We were scheduled to leave a couple of days later, so we offered to
have a sing-along before we left. Again, the room was packed, and we had so much
fun playing the many requests and singing along with our enthusiastic friends.
Another surprise -- because of the positive audience feedback, the cruise director
asked us to stay on the ship and do another evening show! Of course, we agreed, then
went straight to work with the orchestra leader to score out another show. Thanks
to the fact that John wrote so many beautiful songs, we had no trouble planning out
a whole new show.
We left the ship in Lima, Peru and flew home on the 20th, much later than our original
plans, but happy for the wonderful experience. Our friends in Aspen didn't forget
us, we came home to find a postcard, sent from Aspen, telling us we were missed!
What a wonderful family we all belong to, this World family of John Denver! Our family
is growing every day, in love and music, John's message is still heard all over the
world.
-Anne and Jim Curry
jimcurrymusic.com
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WEBSITES OF INTEREST
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From Sandy Clark (tybrenn@comcast.net)
Iíve been collecting old CDs instead of throwing them out in hopes of making an outdoor
mobile, but it got me wondering what else people do with old CDS....so I Googleíd
"what to do with old cds" and found this interesting site:
Recycle your old cd's
http://wa.essortment.com/recyclecd_rvhk.htm
*****
Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com -
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FOR SALE
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Peace Cloth Items!
Don't forget to check out www.johndenverpeacecloth.com (Peace Cloth Store) for exclusive
John Denver items. All proceeds benefit The John Denver Memorial Peace Cloth. We
now have a shopping cart to make your purchases easier!
Also -- if you shop online, please visit our virtual mall: www.johndenverpeacecloth.onecause.com -- every sale at a store in the mall returns a donation
to the Cloth. The Peace Cloth now has eScrip -- please see our website for more information.
*****
If you're looking for something special for a special someone, come check out what
Wildlife Creations
(http://www.geocities.com/wldlifecreation) has to offer!! We have many items relating to John
Denver and other items that would make fantastic gifts for people you know and love!
Or gift someone who is hard to buy for, something that they will talk about for years!
From keychains, snowglobes, t-shirts, potpourri jars and more!!! We're sure you'll
find something! And remember, whenever you purchase from Wildlife Creations, you're
not only giving a gift to someone you know, but to the Windstar Foundation and also
the National Wildlife Federation, in John's memory, for wolf education as all proceeds
are given to them. Wildlife Creations is now offering a feature product.
Checkout the website for this month's offering!
For more information, you can email us at wldlifecreation@wildmail.com.
Diana and Susan
Wildlife Creations
http://www.geocities.com/wldlifecreation
*****
For Sale to a good home - beautiful JD commemorative Taylor koa 6-string Grand Auditorium
size with revolutionary Expression Sound System and "Spirit" Windstar statue
inlay. Package includes Small Dog insulated case cover. # 143 finished April 8, 2003
(20030408143 JDCM) of the limited edition. Payment by money order or cashier's check
only. Email price / details: eagleflight@skyhigh.com
*****
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ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS
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DENlines 10/27/04
A Biweekly Update from Defenders of Wildlife:
Working to Save Wildlife and Wild Lands
Conservationists Pull Out All Stops to Protect Roadless Areas of National Forests
Victories at Global Summit on Endangered Species
Report Cites Declines in Bird Populations
WorldPoints(SM) Rewards for You, Support for Wildlife!
New Mercury Study Shows One-in-Five Women Have Excess Amounts
One-third of Planet's Amphibians in Danger of Extinction, Report Says
Jaguars Spotted by Automated Cameras in Arizona
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Conservationists Pull Out All Stops to Protect Roadless Areas of National Forests
As the end of the comment period (November 15) draws near, conservationists and scientists
are making a last ditch effort to stop the federal government's attempts to repeal
the popular "roadless rule" for the nation's forests, as part of the effort
to encourage public comment against the repeal of the rule. A letter drafted by scientists,
including biologist E.O. Wilson, argues that the roadless rule is essential to biodiversity
and ecosystem health, and another written by economists states that a change to the
rule would mean more wasteful tax-payer funded subsidies to the timber industry.
In a less cerebral and more entertaining fashion, Bobby "Boris" Pickett,
who co-wrote and sang the classic Halloween novelty hit "Monster Mash,"
has created a new rendition called "Monster Slash" that skewers the attempt
to undermine the roadless protections. More than one million citizens, including
tens of thousands of our online members, have commented already. Visit our action
center to comment if you have not done so already.
2. Victories at Global Summit on Endangered Species
New protections were won for several species at a recent international conference
that works to control trade in endangered species around the globe. The conference
voted to increase protections for great white sharks, rare Irawaddy dolphins and
two endangered parrots. Governments also agreed to control ramin wood trade, which
is destroying the last remaining habitats of endangered orangutans. Unfortunately,
other species didn't fare as well. Legal trade in elephant ivory and rhinoceros trophies
was reopened, and efforts to protect African lions from excess trophy hunting were
defeated. Thank you to our online members who sent in a total of more than 60,000
comments in support of protections for the various species!
3. Report Cites Declines in Bird Populations
According to a recent report, nearly 30 percent of birds are facing a "significant
decline" in North America. Most hit are grassland birds, of which 70 percent
are not faring well. Approximately 36 percent of birds in shrub lands are foundering,
as well as 25 percent in forests, 23 percent in urban areas and 13 percent in wetlands.
4. WorldPoints(SM) Rewards for You, Support for Wildlife!
Choose the rewards that are right for you ó Only the new Defenders of Wildlife WorldPoints(SM)
Visa(R) credit card offers you everything ó unlimited cash rewards, tickets on any
major U.S. airline with no blackout dates, merchandise, and car rentals and hotel
stays in the United States.
Protect America's precious wildlife with every purchase you make. With every purchase
you make using the card, MBNA will make a contribution to Defenders of Wildlife at
no additional cost to you. These funds help save the wildlife we feature on our selection
of cards ó wolves, big cats, polar bears, dolphins, whales, sea otters, manatees
and butterflies ó in many ways, from supporting our work to keep federal protections
for wolves to our effort to block oil drilling in wildlife sanctuaries.
As an added bonus, receive your FREE companion airline ticket after making your first
qualifying transaction(s). Apply Today!
5. New Mercury Study Shows One-in-Five Women Have Excess Amounts
More than one-fifth of women in the United States have mercury levels exceeding Environmental
Protection Agency safety guidelines, according to a new study completed by scientists
at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. The study, which tested hair samples
from 1,449 people nationwide, is one of the first to analyze the connection between
mercury levels and the consumption of three types of fish ó canned tuna, locally
caught fish, and fresh or frozen fish sold in stores and restaurants. Learn more
about the results.
Mercury also poses a threat to birds and other animals in several wildlife refuges
across the country. See our report on America's ten most endangered wildlife refuges
for more information.
6. One-third of Planet's Amphibians in Danger of Extinction, Report Says
In what has been described as the first comprehensive world survey of amphibians,
a group of scientists say that approximately one-third, or 1,900 species, are in
danger of becoming extinct. A slew of factors are negatively affecting frogs, toads
and salamanders around the planet ó including deforestation, pollution, habitat loss,
climate change and others. The report, published in the journal Science, involved
more than 500 researchers from more than 60 countries.
7. Jaguars Spotted by Automated Cameras in Arizona
At least two jaguars have been spotted by automated cameras in the mountains south
of Tucson, Arizona. Although they originally roamed throughout the Southwest, jaguars
were hunted, and their habitat was developed throughout the 19th and 20th centuries
to the point of extinction in the United States. The appearance of multiple jaguars
gives evidence that the endangered cats are reinhabiting their historical homeland.
Learn more.
DENlines is a biweekly update of Defenders of Wildlife, a leading national conservation
organization recognized as one of the nation's most progressive advocates for wildlife
and its habitat. It is known for its effective leadership on endangered species issues,
particularly predators such as brown bears and gray wolves. Defenders also advocates
new approaches to wildlife conservation that protect species before they become endangered.
Founded in 1947, Defenders is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with more than 480,000
members and supporters.
Defenders of Wildlife
1130 17th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
Copyright Defenders of Wildlife 2004
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POETRY
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None this month
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NEWSLETTER NEWS
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If you would like to submit articles, news items, stories, poetry, or any other pertinent
information to IT'S ABOUT TIME, please e-mail any of the IAT staff. The submission
deadline for the next edition is November 19, 2004. Please be sure to include
any contact information so that members can e-mail or snail-mail for further details.
*********************************************************************
The contents of this newsletter are entirely at the discretion of the "It's
About Time" staff. Contributions, as always, are welcomed, although
inclusion is not guaranteed. All contributed material may be subject to editing
for content and length.
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". . . IT'S ABOUT TIME WE START
TO LIVE IT,
THE FAMILY OF MAN,
IT'S ABOUT TIME
AND IT'S ABOUT CHANGES . . .
AND IT'S ABOUT TIME."
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