============================================= *** R O C K Y M O U N T A I N H I G H *** ============================================= The John Denver Internet Fan Club Monthly Newsletter May 2002 Editor: Emily M. Parris ============================================= http://www.rockymtnhigh.org * emily@sky.net ============================================= Table of Contents May 2002 * Issue #97 John Denver Events.............................2 "Producer Sees Future for John Denver Tribute Show" / Post-Gazette 4-29-02........3 Reviews of the TV movie "Warning: Parental Advisory" by Rebecca Donathan.........................4 by Carole Romanowski........................5 John Denver Notes..............................6 John Denver Stories: Karen Connell..............................7 Sherrie Winkler............................7 The John Denver Irish Connection...............8 Poetry Corner: "Night Rain" by Phyliss Daffron..............8 John Denver Want Ads/For Sale..................9 ======================================= J O H N D E N V E R E V E N T S ======================================= May 3-5, 2002 John Denver Spring Retreat - Lebanon, PA at Camp Gretna Glen. JD Fellowship and inspiration. $50 Pat Liddic May 4, 2002 * Burlington, VT Green Up Day 9:00am / Annual cleanup of Englesby Ravine all the way to Lake Champlain. Info: nelsmith@together.net May 4, 2002 * Windstar Chat with Chairman and CEO, Dan McCormick 9:00am-Noon PDT http://chat.wstar.org Info: Douglas MacDonald (970) 927-5435 WindstarCO@wstar.org May 4, 2002 * Gwynedd, PA / Chris Westfall in Concert to benefit Quaker charity. Gwynedd Friends Coffee House 8:00pm $3 donation / two sets with guitar, piano and lots of JD music. Info: May 8, 2002 * Los Angeles, CA / Phil Christie will perform at the Genghis Cohen, 740 N. Fairfax Avenue 8:30pm $7.00 (323) 653-0640 http://www.philchristie.com May 24-26, 2002 - Snowmass, CO / Windstar Volunteer Work Weekend / Registration forms are on the "Windstar Global Family" page at the website - http://www.wstar.org June 1, 2002 - Vail, CO / CO Friends of John Denver Annual Highway Cleanup / Evelyn and Rob June 28 & 29, 2002 "A Tribute to John Denver: The Man and His Music, 2002, Hibernia County Park - 4 miles North of Coatesville, PA / Info: Judith http://www.judithgabriel.com / Tickets: Friday #18, Saturday $37, $45 for a 2-day ticket / $80 VIP ticket Under 12 free, over 65 free with ID / JD Tribute Concert Donation, P.O. Box 13363, Reading, PA 19612 July 20-21, 2002 - Third Annual Country Roads Folk Festival, Almost Heaven Farm, West Virginia with a special tribute to John Denver http://www.mofolk.com October 5th & 6th, 2002 - 4th Annual John Denver Celebration / Salida, Colorado http://www.johndenverlegacy.com Christine Smith 1-719-942-9620 October 10, 2002 - Aspen, CO - Work on the JD Sanctuary. http://www.john-denver.org/events/aspen2002/ October 12, 2002 - Aspen, CO - Auction/concert/lunch at the Mt. Chalet 11am-3pm Mack Bailey, Chris Westfall, Mark Cormican, Frank DeLaMarre & Twirp Anderson. $20.00 per person. Info: Mary October 12-13, 2002 - Pacific Grove, CA / Fifth Annual John Denver Memorial Beach Cleanup and Tribute Weekend. Candlelight vigils on the beach both evenings 5:00pm Info October 12, 2002 * Snowmass, CO / Dinner at the Tower Restaurant (formerly owned by John) 4:00pm $26 per person Info: Send check or m.o. to: Vicki Wells / 420 SW 38th Street / Cape Coral, FL 33914 Ron Rich will be performing. <+> <+> <+> <+> <+> <+> <+> "Producer Sees Future for John Denver Tribute Show" by Monica L. Haynes * Post-Gazette * April 29, 2002 When "Almost Heaven: Songs and Stories of John Denver" closed its six-week run on Saturday at the Denver Center in Colorado, producer Harold Thau's work had just gotten started. "I want to tour the show rather than bring it into New York first," said Thau, who was Denver's business manager, partner and friend. No tour dates have been arranged yet. The singer died in 1997 when the aircraft he was piloting crashed. "He was just getting over his second divorce. He was really starting to feel good about himself, and we were looking into a new record deal," Thau said. The show features Denver's music and includes three male and three female actors portraying Denver as he gives his viewpoints on life, music, the environment, etc. while the singer of songs such as "Sunshine on My Shoulder" and "Take Me Home, Country Roads" was not a favorite of the critics, the show has received rave reviews. "It's exciting because it's been sold out for six weeks basically" said Thau, who has spent 40 years in show business as a business manager, personal manager and theater producer. A scrappy Jewish kid from the Bronx, he met Denver, a military brat born in New Mexico, in the early 1960's when the clean-cut singer became a member of the Mitchell Trio. Their business relationship and friendship is chronicled in Thau's recently published autobiography "Bronx to Broadway, A Life in Show Business" written with Arthur Tobier. Thau, 67, has worked with a host of talented musicians, comedians and actors ranging from Duke Ellington to Jackie Vernon to John Malkovich. His odyssey in the industry began in the 1950's when, as a certified public accountant, he began handling the business affairs of many of the jazz and blues artists of the day: Sarah Vaughn, Cannonball Adderly, Wes Montgomery, Ahmad Jamal, and Dakota Staton. His first show business client was the smoldering singer Nina Simone. "I thought she was and still is one of the most talented people around," Thau said of the 69 year old singer. "She was classically trained, just an incredible ability to entertain an audience. "In those days it was very difficult to be a black artist." The overt racial discrimination of the times coupled with the rigid segregation of musical genres made things especially trying for jazz artists. "There was no such thing as crossover," Thau said. "It's the job of a business manager really to insulate the client that he's working with from the vagaries of the business" Thau said. "The highs are very high and the lows are very low. Sometimes you have to be more of a psychologist than a business manager." Comedian Vernon appears to be someone who required both. Popular during the late '60's and early '70's, Vernon was a notorious big spender who Thau tried to keep from self-destructing according to the book. He liked Vernon and was even the godfather of his children, but "he'd just be crazy as far as money was concerned," Thau said. Sometimes the business manager would have to fly to Las Vegas where Vernon would be performing to keep the comedian from spending all his money before his bills were paid. After a couple of decades of handling the business affairs of volatile, temperamental but wonderfully talented people, Thau was burned out and turned his attention to producing theater. After a few producing missteps, someone took him to see a production in the basement of a Chicago church. "There was this little acting company called Steppenwolf doing a play called 'True West,'" Thau recalled. The play, written by Sam Shepard, starred then-unknowns Gary Sinise and John Malkovich. Thau took the production to the Cherry Lane Theater in New York, where it ran for two years. Thau is still Malkovich's business manager and friend. "I've always been partial to actors who came into motion pictures from theater," Thau said. "The smart actors from time to time go back and do theater because they really hone their craft." Thau had wanted Denver to do a Broadway show, but things never came together at that time. "I always had that particular idea and worked with some producers. Then when John died I said, 'How do I do this show?'" He sought the aid of Jeff Waxman and Peter Glazer, who had successfully brought the life of Woody Guthrie to the stage. Thau hopes the show is appreciated by Denver's diehard fans as well as those who've never heard "Annie's Song" or "Thank God I'm A Country Boy." "John's music makes people feel good, and that's what people want to hear," Thau said. <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> <*> REVIEWS OF "WARNING: PARENTAL ADVISORY" Note on the VH1 movie "Warning: Parental Advisory" by Rebecca Donathan Just a short note after watching the VH1 movie, "Warning: Parental Advisory". Finally John Denver got some well deserved credit. This story recounted the Tipper Gore Censorship attempt of 1985. It showed how John's testimony was the difference in the vote for freedom of speech through musical expression vs. censorship. it also was refreshing to see him portrayed in a respectable light. The actor, Tim Guinee, did a fine job. Some of the old stereotypes were there, however, the same can be said for the portrayal of all the principal characters - (Frank Zappa, Al Gore, Tipper Gore and Dee Snider). The movie was a cross between a documentary, a drama and a comedy; but within the mix it managed to exhibit the importance of the stand that Zappa, Snider and John took in defense of the right of free speech in America. A highlight was a comment by Senator Danforth, (paraphrase) "I just want to say before you begin, if the world had more John Denvers, a hearing like this would not be needed to begin with." Little did he know John was about to stand up against him and against censorship. John Denver brought the issue of graded warning labels and their possible wide reaching effects of censorship to a halt. How appropriate that VH1 chose to air this movie on the eve of Earth Day!!! John Denver would have been proud! As we mark this day by reflecting on the beautiful Earth God has given to us and celebrate and explore the methods by which to preserve it, let us also take time to thank John Denver for having the vision to see beyond the moment and for grasping the importance of protecting our precious resources. John seemed to always see the bigger picture, be it a constitutional, a humanitarian or an environmental issue, he realized that the decisions we make today affect not only our own future but the futures of all those who follow. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Review of the TV movie "Warning Parental Advisory" that aired Sunday, April 21, 2001 by Carole Romanowski I watched the TV movie "Warning Parental Advisory" with John Denver, played by Tom Guinee, with mixed emotions. John Denver always stood for freedom, so it is not surprising he championed freedom of expression and opposed censorship of inappropriate song lyrics at the 1985 record labeling hearings in Washington, D.C. I believe his stand directly resulted in the use of record labeling, proposed by Tipper Gore and the PMRC. I also do not believe John self-served in his views since his own recording "Rocky Mountain High" was banned years ago with the misunderstanding that the song referred to drug usage. Instead, John put the whole problem of porn rock, etc. into perspective by allowing its existence - but by also allowing our listening choice. What I did not like at the end of the movie was John shown recklessly waving his guitar in the air and smashing it on the ground, singing he "doesn't have to take it (suppression of freedom of expression) anymore." I do not believe John would ever behave in this manner and felt it cheapened his image and the message of the movie. But that's just my opinion. In closing, the movie was enjoyable, held my interest, and had redeeming value. And it's always nice to see John, or someone playing John, on TV! ======================================= J O H N D E N V E R N O T E S ======================================= At http://www.redrocksonline.com you can vote for people who should be included in the Red Rocks Hall of Fame. John Denver is one of the listed options. So vote for John! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - "Healing Hands, Hopeful Hearts" is the theme for the third annual Poetry In Aspen book and reading event which will be held in conjunction with the John Denver Memorial Peace Cloth Event on October 11, 2002 at the Mountain Chalet from 1-5pm. We hope that all poets will consider submitting their original poetry to: PoetryInAspen@aol.com Submissions will be taken from now until July 1, 2002. After that we go to press... Carolyn Matthews - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - David Ranson performed in "Almost Heaven: Songs and Stories of John Denver" in Denver, Colorado and has some production photos on his website: http://www.davidranson.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Phil Christie's song "Skeleton" is going to be featured in the upcoming movie "Jacks or Better." For an mp3 sample: http://home.earthlink.net/~pchristie/Skeleton.mp3 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Jean Reading the Feb/Mar 2002 issue of Country Magazine I was so pleased to see John's name mentioned in the feature "This Is God's Country", written by subscribers about their 'best place to live.' The article is about West Virginia and opens with the following... "Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Those were the words written by John Denver in his famous song 'Take Me Home, Country Roads.' In our opinion, he couldn't have said it better. West Virginia surely is almost heaven. To us, it's God's Country." - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Kevin I just finished listening to my advance copy of the Harbor Lights Concert CD. I can tell you this with tears in my eyes, that this CD is a must have. John sounds even better than the "Wildlife Concert." The songs, the stories and the laughter are classic John Denver. I truly miss the man and his music but, with great hope, we can treasure classic concerts like this one, and others yet to be discovered and released to us, his beloved fans. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Mack Bailey went to school with Tim Guinee, the person who played the part of John in "Warning: Parental Advisory". "We were good friends. Used to stay at his apartment in New York when traveling through. It's a small world." http://www.mackbailey.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Kris O'Connor's website is now updated with the CD cover and liner notes for the "Harbor Lights" cd that was released on 4/23/02 * http://www.krisoconnor.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rocky Mtn High Web Site - Emily I've been doing a lot of updating on the Rocky Mtn High web site. The "Articles" and "Back Issues" areas have been updated. http://www.rockymtnhigh.org/article.html (Articles) http://www.rockymtnhigh.org/nws/back.html (Back Issues) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ======================================= J O H N D E N V E R S T O R I E S ======================================= Karen The other day as I was walking back to my car after paying for gas, I noticed a guy standing in back of my jeep. When I came up to him he asked where I got my bumper sticker (my JD one, of course). He told me his name was Gordon Titcomb, and that he had know John and had played with him on many occasions. Before they became friends though, he told of the second time that he had met him. It happened to be at some kind of gathering with quite a few people. Gordon said that John had spotted him across and room and waved for him to join him. John then proceeded to introduce him to everyone. Gordon told me that John treated him like they had known each other for a lifetime, (because that was just the type of person John was). Gordon said that he had never met a more decent, friendly and honest person! After that, he, John and other musicians would get together and play. He said he remembers one particular time when they were all together and John asked them if they would like to hear a new song that he was working on. John then began to play "Rocky Mountain High." Soon they all joined along. He said they had many good times together, but that this one stands out most in his mind. He knows that it has to do with the song. I watched as Gordon shared this story and noticed he spoke of him with not only admiration, but such respect! I then said to him that music has not been the same since we lost him and that in MY heart, it never will be again! He smiled and agreed. With that, we parted. But I knew we both felt that though the singer is silent he will NEVER be forgotten. * * * Sherry Winkler 4-16-2002 This morning I remembered a funny story I thought you'd all get a kick out of. A friend and I went to see John years ago at McNichol's Arena in Denver. For some reason we got there really early, several hours before the show. We were the only ones there. We were standing on the top of the stairs... way up on the second level. All of a sudden a SUV pulls up. Guess who? JOHN AND ANNIE. John was driving and Annie in the passenger seat. They both got out of the car. John went around, opened the door and got his guitar out. Then Annie got in the back seat and John took the guitar and put it in the passenger seat beside him and they drove away. Poor Annie, relegated to the back seat by John's guitar. I still laugh when I think of it. No, we didn't yell to him or anything. We were so shocked, but I remember that after they left we were laughing so hard I almost choked. * * * THE JOHN DENVER IRISH CONNECTION Tim Mac an tSagairt Natural Rapture Productions Ireland held happy memories for John Denver, and after his popularity waned a little in the States during the eighties he frequently played to packed houses in Ireland. Now, should you go into any country pub where live music is played you are certain to hear a rendition of "Country Roads", and usually "Annie's Song." A few months ago a cover version of "Country Roads" was number one in the Irish Charts. I work for a tv production company and we are currently researching the John Denver Irish Connection. We are very hopeful that a 'John Denver Night' will be broadcasted on his fifth anniversary this fall. I would be very grateful if stories and tidbits about John and especially his Irish connection could be forwarded to me. It will hopefully be a fitting tribute to an outstanding human and I invite you all to take part in the making of this programme. ======================================= J O H N D E N V E R P O E T R Y ======================================= NIGHT RAIN by Phyliss Daffron We used his wings from which to fly. When a flower grows, a seed must die. Petals of beauty leaving empty shells. Where once lived chaos, calmness now dwells. Angels weep the sweetest of tears. Rivers of mercy, tumbling through years. What have we learned...was the knowledge lost? Keep alive the dream, at whatever cost. Wash clean this ground the blood of some. With the night rain, peace finally has come. Rays of sunshine bursting from the sky. For every flower that grows, a seed must die. ______________________________________ Copyright 1-13-2001 by Phyliss Daffron ================================================= JOHN DENVER W A N T A D S / F O R S A L E ================================================= October 10, 2002 Work Detail Volunteers needed to work in the JD Sanctuary. http://www.john-denver.org/events/aspen2002/ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Susan Leaver For Sale - "The New Zealand JD Collection" cd - already sold Gold in this country and not available anywhere else. 73 minutes of your favorite JD songs. $12 including postage. Please contact via email. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - George Schumer If you know a young musician (under 25) who performs, or is willing to perform, John Denver music, Singing Skies Foundation offers rebates on purchases of sheet music and cd's, plus cash awards for outstanding performances. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Peggy Doering I have several duplicates from my collection for sale, including some of the rarer import items. Email me if you are interested. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The Limelight Lodge is having a special rate of $57 for the Aspen-in-October Weekend. 800-433-0832 * 228 E. Cooper Avenue * Aspen, CO - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Annalisa Berns Delightful summer camp for rent. Would be perfect for a John Denver week! 5 rooms with 11 beds. Located in the Adirondack Mountains north of Utica, NY. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Wolf and Wolfpup Wildlife Creations has lots of great gifts. In May we introduce a new CD by Melanie Trondson! She hosts the singalong event at the Assisted Living Center in Aspen. http://www.geocities.com/wldlifecreation/ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Sandra Russell I'm looking for the video of "Rocky Mountain Holiday." I will, of course, pay for it and all shipping/postage incurred. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Gregory Does anyone know if the JD BBC National Exhibition Concert was recorded? Or does anyone have a copy of the Madison Square Garden Concert in 1974? - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - In honor of the 25th Anniversary of David Mallett's first album, North Road Records is releasing the first three Mallett albums on compact disc. 800-488-4289 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Emily If you'd like a CD with all the back issues of the Rocky Mountain High Newsletters from 1994 to 2002 just send check or m.o. for $8.00 to: Emily Parris / Rocky Mountain High / 608 E. 96th Street / Kansas City, MO 64131 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - John Denver Puzzle http://members.aol.com/swafeb/JDPuzzle.html ************************************************************* Rocky Mountain High: The John Denver Internet Fan Club emily@sky.net http://www.rockymtnhigh.org May 2002 * Issue #97 * Editor: Emily M. Parris *************************************************************