IAT NEWSLETTER
NOVEMBER 2000
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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
Co-Founder and Secretary -- Theresa Shea (Tree1A@aol.com)
Co-Founder and Webpage Designer -- Sandy Clark (IATMail@aol.com)
Co-Presidents ๑ Ann Schnitz (aerie01@sprynet.com)
and
Mary Ledford (eagleshorses@yahoo.com)
Newsletter Editor -- Marcia C. Porter (mport@netnitco.net)
Web Site -- http://members.aol.com/tybrenn/
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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Hi everyone!
Mary was still on vacation in the wonderful West when we put together the last issue
of the IAT newsletter. So since she wrote three terrific articles for this month's
edition, I decided not to write anything myself.
Have a wonderful, Happy Thanksgiving ๑ peace to all our friends and family!
My heart to yours,
Ann
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A LETTER FROM MARY
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Remembering A Friend
What a shock it was to hear the news of the passing of Patty Peavey.
I met Patty after I joined "The Higher We Fly" back in 1984 and we've been
friends ever since . . . sixteen years! I was so glad she would be able to be with
us in Aspen this year as I hadn't seen her in a while.
Patty and I have shared some great times . . . one in particular was 1987, when John
did five shows at the Chicago Theater the week before Christmas. We had such fun
. . . especially at dinner when we all got a little silly --and the wine helped!--
which caused my face and nose to get a little red! I acquired the nickname of "Rudolph"
and at the end of the week, she resented me with a giant chocolate reindeer complete
with red nose!!!!
We also spent time together at the 1986 Celebrity Ski Classic in Lake Tahoe. That
was great fun. We had a table the last night for the club and Patty & Robin were
with us. Our table was flush with the stage and before John walked off, he came over
and said "Hi guys!" A very special moment for all of us.
Patty unselfishly shared her photos with me which will be used in my book along with
a dedication. I will miss Patty and will always remember the good times we had. And
every time I hear "Dreamland Express" or "Windsong" (Patty 's
favorite song), I will remember "the gift you areึthe gift of you."
Peace, my friend, and thank you.
Mary
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
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Gratitude -
such a lovely thought when we receive it. And an even lovelier thought when we give
it.
November is Thanksgiving - the time when Americans, particularly, give thanks for
blessings received throughout the year.
It's particularly difficult to sort things out this month - as our election unfolds
- and unfolds - and unfolds. I've never understood politics and even more so now,
but I am reminded that politics prevail in all areas of our lives, no matter what
country we live in on this magnificent globe we call earth.
I see no true resolution for our American election dilemna ๑ there are too many political
figures, too many political arenas, too many political agendas - it makes me dizzy
attempting to sort them out.
The one true resolution I can see clearly is what John Denver wrote in his song,
"What One Man Can Do". Perhaps it's time we all consider John's lyrics:
I suppose that there are those who'll say he had it easy,
Had it made in fact before he'd even begun
But they don't know the things I know
I was always with him It may sound strange
. . . we were more than friends
It's hard to tell the truth when no one wants to listen
When no one really cares what's goin' on
And it's hard to stand alone when you need someone beside you
Your spirit and your faith must be strong.
What one man can do is dream
What one man can do is love
What one man can do is change the world
And make it young again
Here you see what one man can do
As shaded as his eyes might be
That's how bright his mind is
That's how strong his love for you and me
A friend to all the universe, grandfather of the future
Everything that I would like to be.
What one man can do is dream,
What one man can do is love,
What one man can do is change the world
And make it work again,
Here you see what one man can do.
John wrote the song about Buckminster Fuller. It could have been written for David
Brower, the environmentalist who protected so many beautiful gifts for us and future
generations. He could have written it about you . . . or me?
"Here you see what one man can do."
Rainbows and hugs,
M
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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CHARLIE ZAHM WITH SPECIAL GUEST, MACK BAILEY, IN CONCERT, NOV 25
FRIENDS OF JOHN DENVER GATHERING IN ENGLAND, NOVEMBER 25 AND 26
see details on calendar events in newsletter
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QUOTE OF THE MONTH
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The highest reward for a person's toil is not what they get for it, but what they
become by it.
John Ruskin
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ASPEN 2000
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Aspen 2000 was a huge success. The concerts at the Wheeler were outstanding ึ the
guys just keep getting better and better each year. Jim Horn did a solo on "Country
Roads" Saturday night that had the audience in awe. Jim got such an ovation.
Denny Brooks (aka "Dancin' Denny!) sang a cute little song called "Avocado"
to the tune of the Eagle's "Desperado" ึ it was hilarious. I remember him
doing that song back in 1987 when John did a benefit for the Aspen Country Day School.
John and Denny also sang a cute little ditty at that same benefit ึ "If I Could
Love A Million Girls!"
Our auction was wonderfully successful, raising $7,220.00 for Long View Media. Our
very grateful appreciation to all who donated items, especially John Sommers, for
the autographed sheet music to "Thank God, I'm A Country Boy", Jim Connor,
for the cigar-box banjo and Stu Ramstead, for donating a wonderful trip to Little
Multchatna . . . you guys really helped make a big difference.
The entertainment was provided by Maryland's own Mack Bailey, Frank DeLaMarre, Chris
Nole, Ken Covington and Julie McClain. Pete Huttlinger was supposed to be with us
too but was unfortunately feeling a little under the weather. During intermission
on Saturday, I spoke with Pete who said he was feeling much better. Thanks to all
for your willingness to perform . . . it was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Before we left for Aspen, Pam (Beasely) had e-mailed the Aspen City Council regarding
the possibility of a proclamation making it John Denver Week. The proposal was passed
by the Council on Monday, October 9, making October 11-15, 2000 - JOHN DENVER WEEK!
We were thrilled. Anyone wanting a copy of the proclamation may e-mail me: eagleshorses@yahoo.com.
We will be starting to work on next year shortly so stay tuned!
After Aspen, Pam and I drove to Jackson Hole, WY and stayed with Gloria for a few
days. We also got to meet Mardy Murie . . . what a lady! Her cabin has a view of
the Grand Tetons to die for!! We read her a few entries in the book they had at the
film and she was very moved. I even saw a little tear coming from her eyes! I told
her
how much people loved the film and how much I loved her book "Two In The Far
North." We found a 35th anniversary copy of the book in a little book store
in Jackson Hole . . . they even have a photo of Mardy on the wall!! We got to see
the photo of John kissing herึ what a beautiful photo. That will be available for
purchase
shortly. We'll keep you posted.
Sunday morning, we presented Sandy Ostertag with $4,000 of the auction money. The
other $3,220.00 is on it's way to her now. She told us she can now do the DVD to
"Song For All Lovers" from the Mardy Murie Film. She also talked about
expanding "Let This Be A Voice". We'll keep you posted on that as well.
Sandy left Sunday to
attend a conference on pandas in San Francisco -- an episode of the Nature series
to be shown soon.
Again, thanks to everyone who contributed to the auction ึ
"together
ึ. It's about time!"
Peace-Mary
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UPCOMING EVENTS
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CHARLIE ZAHM WITH SPECIAL GUEST - MACK BAILEY - IN CONCERT
An evening of American folk songs and original songs, featuring the music of John
Denver, will take place on November 25, 2000 -- 7:30 PM at the Salem United Church
of Christ, Doylestown, PA Tickets $8, children are free
Write to Pat at PAHough@aol.com or Donna at
donnapinto@yahoo.com for more information
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The "Friends of John Denver" web site at http://www.fojd.org.uk
has been updated with full details of the November gathering and the long- awaited
planting of a Woodland Grove in celebration of John's life. Click on "Events"
at the right-hand side of our Home page to find out about these exciting events and
how to order tickets.
Peace,
Christine
president@fojd.org.uk
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FOR SALE
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TRIBUTE CD AVAILABLE
When John Denver died on October 12, 1997, I wrote a song to express how I felt about
that loss. The song was titled "Take Him Home". What I had actually written
was a prayer to God. I have since been fortunate enough to have recorded 3 different
versions of that song in Nashville, TN with the finest studio musicians in the city.
Two of the musicians were former John Denver band members: Pete Huttlinger (guitars,
mandolin) and Chris Nole (keyboards and piano). The recordings were produced by Kris
O'Connor (Grammy award winning producer and close personal friend of John Denver).
The one for John is on the album, but I've been wondering what to do with the other
versions. In light of losing Patty Peavey and Carol Smith, and for all of the countless
others who have left us, I am considering the production of a single CD containing
four tracks . . . "Take Them Home" - verse one is Take Her Home, verse
two is Take Him Home and verse three is Take Them Home
Take Them Home is an instrumental, no vocals and could be used for funerals of loved
ones. I would like to include the names of lost loved ones, listed alphabetically,
on the CD liner. Numerous submissions will be included, for if need be, more panels
can be added to the CD liner. There will be room for over 400 names on the original
panel. I want to clarify this is for any and all of our loved ones, not just John
Denver family members or fans.
Price of the CD will be five dollars ($5) plus $1.50 for shipping. The sheet music
will be $4 (shipping free). Profits from the CD and the sheet music will be donated
to charity, to be announced. Nancy Jurka suggested supporting the Columbine Charity
Trust as one of the charities.
I have reserved the domain name "www.takethemhome.org" and will investigate
setting up a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to handle the sale and distribution
of the CD, and also to handle the distribution of profits. My wife, Laura, has graciously
accepted the responsibility of organizing the whole project.
The CD will take about 4 weeks to manufacture, so please submit the names of any
loved ones ASAP.
I have received many names and read details of these loved ones who have been taken
from us. Thanks to all who submitted names and stories. After careful analysis, I
will need to receive at least 300 pre-paid orders to finance the initial order. To
make financial sense of this venture, we must order at least 1000 copies at $2,000.00,
in order to lower the purchase price. I have already invested about $2000 to record
the songs.
To ensure a Christmas shipment, anyone wishing to order copies must do so as soon
as possible. To order, send cash or check to:
Frank DeLaMarre
Take Them Home CD order
952 Fairway trails Court
Brighton, MI
48116
Make checks payable to Frank DeLaMarre. Sorry, no credit cards accepted.
The cost is $5 per CD plus $1.50 shipping for the first copy, $3 shipping for two
copies and $3.50 shipping for three to five copies. International orders and orders
of more than five copies need to email me for information on shipping costs. It will
take 20 business days from the time the order is placed to receive the CDs. Check
with me about Christmas delivery.
Frank DeLaMarre
frank@frankdelamarre.com
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CHRISTMAS WILDLIFE CREATIONS
Looking for gift ideas for the upcoming holidays? Check out the ceramics at Wildlife
Creations. All sorts are available. Proceeds from sales are donated to the National
Wildlife Federation in memory of John Denver for the Yellowstone wolves.
For more information, visit:
http://www.geocities.com/yswolf/WildlifeCreations.html
or contact: jdwolfpup@earthlink.net.
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NEW ON CD
JIM HORN: A BEATLES TRIBUTE:
Jim has done yet another wonderful CD in tribute to one of the most beloved groups
in the history of popular music. Included are some of the Beatles' best: "Yesterday",
"Let It Be", "Eleanor Rigby","We Can Work It Out"
(featuring Duane Eddy on electric guitar).
Jim's website: www.jimhorn.com.
To purchase CD call toll free: 1-877-GET-MYCD.
PETE HUTTLINGER: NAKED POP:
New from Pete, having recently won the National Fingerpicking Guitar Championship
2000. This is a wonderful collection of some of Pete's favorites. Songs include:
"Eleanor Rigby", Stevie Wonder's "Sir Duke", "And I Love
Her". Jeff Cox and Tom Roady are featured.
To order call toll free: 1-888-772-5512
MOLLIE WEAVER: MOLLIE:
Produced by Kris O'Connor and featuring Chris Nole, Pete Huttlinger and Jim Horn,
this is Mollie's second CD and is wonderful. Songs include John Sommers' "In
The Grand Way" and the song John recorded entitled "Junk".
To order go to Mollie's website: www.mollieweaver.com
MACK BAILEY: JUST ANOTHER THURSDAY NIGHT:
This wonderful new CD was recorded live at the King of France Tavern in Annapolis,
MD on 8/30/90. It includes my favorite "Rock Me Grandpa" and Bill Danoff's
"Potter's Wheel." Pete Kennedy makes a guest appearance on the song "Distant
Thunder."
To order, go to Mack's website: www.mackbailey.com
CHRIS NOLE: A CHRIS NOLE CHRISTMAS:
This is a collection of traditional Christmas songs with fresh arrangements by Chris.
He wrote a special song "Lansing Drive Sleigh Ride" reflecting childhood
Christmases at home.
To order online: www.roadhouserecords.com
or call toll free:
1-800-475-7115
LIME CREEK ๑ SONGS BY JOE HENRY & GARY BURR:
Songs from the play Prelude to Lime Creek, written by Joe Henry, which starred Anthony
Zerbe in Denver and Aspen. Nine songs that were composed by Joe Henry and Gary Burr,
performed by Gary Burr, that tell the story of a raw life in the Wyoming high-country,
a rough-hewn tapestry of a man in search of himself. Gary is quite well known in
Nashville.
To order: www.aspenteddybear.com
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TEDDY BEARS STILL AVAILABLE
ASPEN 2000 Teddy Bears: 12" Brown tour bears with black bow-tie and blue and
white t-shirts. Color photo of John on the front from Camden, NJ 1995. $20 each including
postage; overseas postage: add $2.00/bear.
If you are interested, e-mail me: eagleshorses@yahoo.com
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SUPPLY OF ASPEN 2000 T-SHIRTS
ASPEN 2000 T-Shirts: We have a small supply of t-shirts left from the sale at the
auction: L, XL, XXL: $20 plus $3.20 shipping.
E-mail Pam Beasley for details: pamela.beasley@airmail.net
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TEE SHIRTS - RE-OFFERED BY POPULAR DEMAND
Due to popular demand, "Friends of John Denver" Aspen 2000 Tee-shirts are
available for a limited time only. Full details, including designs featured on front
and back of the shirts (for those of you who didn't see them in Aspen), can be found
at:
http://www.fojd.org.uk - click on Tee-Shirts
in the Contents list on the Home page.
Peace,
Christine Moon
moonstar@netcomuk.co.uk
"Friends of John Denver"
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ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS
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CONDORS COME-BACK
Hello from CA!
Hi, guys! I have exciting news about California Condors, which are endangered, and
were nearly extinct 20 years ago. They have had much succeess with breeding in captivity.
Birds are now being re-introduced to the wild - near the Grand Canyon (lucky birds!).
Fifteen have been released to date and this month, thirteen more are headed that
way. The links below will give you more scoop.
Thanks!
Ellen La Corte Quinn
http://dailynews.yahoo.com/h/p/ap/20001110/us/condor_release_578.html
http://dailynews.yahoo.com/h/ap/20001110/us/condor_release_1.html
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EVERGLADES RESTORATION PLAN PASSES HOUSE WITH FINAL APPROVAL SEEN
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October 20, 2000
By ERIC SCHMITT
The New York Times
WASHINGTON, Oct. 19 The House approved one of the largest environmental-restoration
projects in the nation's history today, voting decisively for a $7.8 billion plan
intended to revive the Florida Everglades over the next four decades.
The 394-to-14 vote, after the Senate's approval by 85 to 1 last month, cleared the
way for an engineering undertaking to reverse a half-century of environmental damage
and revamp South Florida's water supply by capturing more rainwater and redirecting
much of its flow into the Everglades.
The House approved the plan as part of a bill on water resources. Before the bill
goes to President Clinton, who has promised to sign it, differences between the Senate
and House versions must be resolved.
Although lawmakers said there were no serious differences over the Everglades provisions,
they warned that it might be difficult to reach agreement on some unrelated projects
of the Army Corps of Engineers, which environmental advocates oppose.
If House and Senate negotiators cannot reach compromise, lawmakers said today that
they would remove the Everglades plan from the bill and attach it to a spending bill.
In an unusual feat of bipartisanship, the project made allies of Vice President Al
Gore, his Republican rival, Gov. George W. Bush of Texas, Mr. Bush's younger brother
Jeb, the Republican governor of Florida, and farmers and environmental advocates.
"This bipartisan restoration plan will undo years of neglect and misunderstanding
that has brought the Everglades to the brink of disaster," said Representative
Porter J. Goss, Republican of Florida.
The Everglades plan, drafted by the Army Corps of Engineers, is aimed at resuscitating
the 12-million-acre "river of grass" that cuts across South Florida. The
plan is also supposed to ensure an adequate supply of fresh water for cities and
farms, a major concern to local governments, citrus growers, builders and Florida
utilities.
The project calls for the federal government to split the $7.8 billion cost with
the State of Florida over 36 years. The initial spending would be about $1.4 billion
to finance ten of the 68 projects in South Florida. The design and engineering phase
of the first projects is to begin in January, with construction starting in 2004.
Under the corps of engineers' plan, fresh water would be captured and stored in limestone
quarries and aquifers untested methods in that area. Engineers would also remove
dikes and barriers at the easternedge of the Everglades, which abuts urban Miami,
to allow the water to flow into the marshland.
This approach would permit 80 percent of the captured water to be used to restore
the ecosystem, giving the Everglades half the total expanded water supply. Currently,
farms and cities get 70 percent of a smaller water supply, leaving the Everglades
with 30 percent.
Over the past decade, Congress has approved piecemeal more than $1 billion to help
restore the Everglades. The measure endorsed today is a blueprint for a comprehensive
plan to correct more than 50 years of damage to a treasured ecosystem that lawmakers
ranked with the Mississippi River, the Grand Canyon and the redwood forests of California.
Passage of the bill is an acknowledgment that what Congress did in 1948 was wrong.
That year, the lawmakers ordered Army engineers to build levees and canals to curb
flooding in South Florida, then in the first stages of a building boom. By changing
the water flow, the engineers inadvertently guaranteed that the Everglades received
too little water in the dry season and too much in rainy weather.
A half century is a mere instant in the history of the earth, but a long time in
human reckoning -- long enough for the levees and canals ordered in 1948 to destroy
half the Everglades.
The complexity and scope of the environmental restoration plan is unrivaled, supporters
said. To keep tabs on the program, Congress will mete out financing year by year.
No individual project can go 20 percent over budget without an explanation to Congress.
In debate just before the vote today, Representative Peter Deutsch, Democrat of Florida,
said, "We are about to pass the largest ecosystem restoration project in the
world."
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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 December edition is Decemeber 19, 2000. Please be sure to include
any contact information so that members can e-mail or snail-mail for further details.
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The content of this newsletter is entirely at the discretion of the "It's About
Time" staff. Contributions, as always, are welcomed, although inclusion is not
guaranteed.
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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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