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Posted by: Katie Badowski on Sun, Jan 01 at 15:26:09 EST

Happy New Year Everybody!!!!!!

Posted by: Tenisia L. Jones on Sun, Jan 01 at 18:23:45 EST
Toured in: 2006

All Praises be to God for His many blessings and everylasting love! I just thought I would drop a line to say Happy New Year to everyone! It is truly a blessing to be able to enter another year. There is a song that goes "As I look back over my life, and I think things over. I can truly say that I've been blessed, I have a testimony!" I take that with me not only as each year roles by but everyday. I was blessed to see yet another year when just 3 1/2 years ago, doctors did not think I would. I am blessed because when doctors said I wasn't gonna make it, God said "Yes you are" I am blessed because when I thought I couldn't go on, God said "Yes you can!" I am blessed because I survived! I survived cancer, I survived emotional hardship I survived World Wide! {:0) I was blessed to see my 24th birthday in 05. And though I am not where I should be I am blessed because I am not where I use to be. So in saying that I challange everyone to make this year your year allowing yourself to be humbled by all God's glory. To take whatever trials or tribulations we go through and see them in a positive light. Every dark cloud has a silver lining...Every one of them! Though in the midst of the storm we may not see it...it is there. See everyday we have 2 choices..We choose to be up or we choose to be down. And no matter what happens throughout your day, your mood is your choice. So enjoy this day, enjoy this year enjoy this life and be thankful because we have that choice...to enjoy it. Allow Gods will to be done...Except it and respect it.
"05" you took the torch and you ran with it. Though I was not able to see the show, I am sure you all held your own. You have a bit to go, but soon you will be handing over the torch to the 06 team. I pray that God gives us the strength, motivation and guidance that we need to carry on this tradition and make ya'll proud. Priors, you all are exceptional. Even though I don't know MANY of you, the fact that you came before us and paved the way deserves the utmost respect. Hats off to you and all involved in making Blue what it is today. 06-We made it thus far, but we have a long way to go. In my own oppinion, we're not truly Blue until we're truly thru! In other words once our tour is done, then we can relax and enjoy being part of the family. Until then...we gotta earn our keep as those before us did. So lets take care of each other work hard and do what we came to do! Ladies (and gents) in respose to Danille's question about tatoos, you can try Dermablen concelar to cover them. I have a nice size one on my left shoulder blade and while I was at world wide I kept it covered using that. You can get it at Dillards and they can help you with matching skin tones. Can't wait to see you guys!
Well I think that's all for now. Said a lot more than I intended but sometimes that's just how God works. Be blessed everyone and Happy New Year!

Tenisia L. Jones

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry) on Mon, Jan 02 at 10:10:35 EST
Toured in: Through Narnia

Happy New (Blue) Year TIB family!

Just saw The Adventures of Narnia (CS Lewis'tale adapted) on New Years eve just before firewoeks went off! Perfect timing. Good stuff yall! Go see it NOOOOOOWWWWWW! Trust me you'll all love it!

If any of the prior Blue vocalist/dancers out there have some time, could you please reach out and give some advice and mentoring to a certain A1C young lady down at Eglin named Amanda Acrea! She contacted me recently for some advice, and I've been workin' with her through e-mail, and hookin' her up with Tam '04, and Katie Badowski and some other Blue folks. But the more input the merrier!

She is very serious yall, and she is hungry for the knowledge! So anyone interested in contacting her, shoot me an e-mail and I'll send you her info and give you the background intel on her! Mainly she needs advice on dance steps and dance instruction etc. ANd any vocal advice would help her too! She apparently has also made contact with Dave Davis down there at Eglin, but the brother is pretty busy and she needs some extra input from some females out there! So there you are ladies! I'll post her e-mail here for you all if you want to go straight to her:

amanda.acrea@eglin.af.mil

her #s are 850-651-3446
and 850-586-2974

She gave me permisson to give them out yall! I'll try to post her request the next time I'm on the board!

Thanks Blue! Always give it back yall! Gotta pass that torch to them youngin's.

Yoda G out..........Wise like Aslan
...........Brave like King Peter
..........Adventurous like Lucy
..........Clever like the fox
.....and..helpful like the BEAVERS yall!!!!

'06, if you saw Narnia, think back on all the beavers you met on tour and how they helped you get through the woods! Can't get through the trek without the help of the little beavers yall! Be sure to pay your props to all the beavs! Nuff said on that! Happy '06 everyone!

Posted by: Yoda G (again!) on Mon, Jan 02 at 10:19:46 EST
Toured in: Go Tenisia!

P.S.

Oh yeah, one more thing. Tenisia, you are a real trooper! Good for YOU girl! That's the TIB spirit! Please contact this young lady down at Eglin and tell her your story! Because she also has a few medical issues which I won't go into here for obvious reasons (personal) but which are....shall I say....rather SMALL compared to what you must have been through! And I DID expalin to her already not to sweat the small stuff, because chances are pretty darn good that no matter what her situation is, someone somewhere in TIB priorland, has already been there and done that, as they say....and lived to tell about it!

Can I get an AMEN yall???? So, please call her and share that with her directly and console (and Counsel) her about her own medical issues and how she can overcome!

Yoda G out------like the Dark Witch/"Princess" of Narnia after Aslan got through with her! LOL!

Posted by: Yoda G (often imitated, never duplicated on Mon, Jan 02 at 13:00:09 EST
Toured in: Hap Nw Yr '05!

Okay Blue,

Back again (lol) wit da intel on the Florida newbe! So before I get busy and forget....here is her original e-mail as promised (and with permission from the author):
--------------------------------------
>>Gerry,

>>I am a singer. But I can dance also. I want to sing more than anything in the world. I have been in every choir that I could possibly be in during high school but right now I am just singing the National Anthem at all of the ceremonies that I can possibly do. I used to play the flute and piccolo so I used to be able to read music. I don't know if I can anymore. I used to write songs (not the actual music) just the words in high school.
>>I really don't have that much money to spend on private lessons that is the big problem. Right now I am doing CDC's so most of my time is taken but when they are done all of my time can be spent on this.
>>Like I said before, I sing the national anthem for all of the events that I can.
>>What two choirs on base? [At Eglin yall!] I don't know anything about any choirs on base. Please let me know more information. Yes, I have contacted a guy -he's not a prior but he just made it this year - [She's referring to the one they call "Shylo" yall] and we talk but he is leaving on the 28th. I don't know of any priors on base. I went on the prior website and hope that more people from around here would contact me. But I have only had two people contact me. You and Shylo. I have not been In touch with Christy Penn yet.[from MY '86 tour yall!!!! Hellooooo Kristy "#9" Penn....where are you????? I know your out there somewhere??? Time to give back....again!]
>>What is at the recreation center? What is the MWR? [LOL!!! Gosh I feel sooooo old now!!!! LOL] Please help me my supervisor has no clue...[LOL!!! I can relate!]...and I really need this. I did an all county audition once but I don't really remember it. I was like 13. This is my biggest weakness I have stage fright and I am trying to get over it but it is easier said than done. Do you have any pointer for that? [LOL! I told her that Eddie Vedder - my rock hero - of Pearl Jam, use to were pilot's gogles w. blacked out glass in them! LOL! TRUE story yall!!]

>>I am okay with the criticism it may take me a minute to suck it up but hey life goes on and what doesn't kill you makes you stronger right? [Yeah, that's what I tell my mom now about her cookin'. LOL!]
>>I do not know of anyone on the base that is into music and who wants to do Tops in Blue, so the audition tape I was just going to do to a c.d. Yes, I go to the [AFE] website all the time. I went and filled out the survey and they sent me an application. None of the other priors have contacted me [YET! Common yall, get busy ladies!] I really don't know what my fears are. I just want to do it and see. Yes I would love to take a year out and do what I love doing even if it means it will be the most physically challenging thing I have ever
done. I love working with other people even in large groups. I know that there will always be some problems, there always is. But you just have to know how to work them out quickly and easily. I would love to go through basic training again [ref. to my analogy of staging as a "musical bootcamp"] I made so many great friends. I just turned 21 years old. I am originally from New York but half way through my senior year my mom moved us to Navarre [Florida] and then I got stationed at Eglin for Join Spouse.
>> I am Married. I have been for 2 years. I don't have any kids. I have been waiting so that I could do Tops in Blue first. [Damn!!! Yall hear THAT???? That's serious dedication yall!] I think that I can handle myself without my husband for a year. I sing every day 24-7 even at work! I love to sing in the car, the shower, at work and anywhere. I come from a little town in New York so we did not do awards, but I always had the solos for everything. I did "Boy from New York City" once and got a standing ovation. I will never forget that. I don't know if I could honestly handle not making it the first time...[LOL! Now I DID school her on THAT one yall! LOL!!! But at least she's thinkin' BIG yall!!! "Aim High" right? LOL! God bless her!]...but I will try very hard I want this really bad. [Join the club!]

I think that that is honestly the longest e-mail I have ever wrote. [LOL!!! That's nothin'! I write that much in one paragraph on the board!! LOL! Ask Jim W.LOL! Nyut, nyut!] Thank you so much for all of your great advice! That really helped. I answered your questions to the best of my ability. If you need any other information, please let me know. Oh, I think I started really singing around 9 or 10 years old. And I have not stopped. It use to be that in the car my mom would turn the music up so that she would hear the music and not me! LOL! Every song that comes on the radio I know it. I feel that music can describe what someone is going through, so when I am sad, I listen to sad songs. When I want to be hyper, I put on techno. And so on, and so forth. Well, write me back when you get this. Thank you again for all of
you help."

>Amanda Nan Acrea

>A1C Acrea, Amanda N.
>96 MSS/DPMPER
>Retention/CJR Advisor
>Comm. 882-2742 ext. 6
>DSN 872-2742 ext. 6

There it is Blue! She's all yours! Yall know what ta do! Thank you ladies and gents.

My work here is done!

Yoda G out!

Posted by: Jim Wintermyre on Mon, Jan 02 at 15:32:06 EST
Toured in: 95

Now Mel, you know I'm not going to be seeing 40 for... a long time. On the contrary, I dislocated my shoulder because I'm, um, an extremely rad dude, as you should know.

Frances you are most definitely incorrect, but I will give you the benefit of the doubt and try again. Don't e-stand me up this time though! :-)

Happy New Year everyone!

Posted by: Mel Ritz on Tue, Jan 03 at 04:43:42 EST
Toured in: 98 Baby!

Dearest Jim...

"Rad" dates you....

Posted by: Amanda N. Acrea on Tue, Jan 03 at 12:10:09 EST
Toured in: hopeful 07

I just want to say thank you so much for all of your help I really appreciate all of the help advise and the friendships. You guys are the greatest. I also want to say good luck to the 06' tour. I will see you soon. Can't wait to meet you. Tenishia you are a very strong and brave person and you will do awsome this years. Gerry your help has been so great to me with everything. I just want to say thanks again.

Posted by: Dave Davis on Tue, Jan 03 at 13:17:30 EST
Toured in: 2000

Sheesh, A fella can't spend the holidays with the kin folk (first time in 14 years) without being listed as AWOL!

Family: Belated Merry Chirstmas and Happy New Year! I hope 2006 is all that you pray for and more!

2000: They played "The Load-out" on the radio twice on our drive back to base yesterday. How can one stupid song make you both sad and happy at the same time? Miss you and Love you bunches!

"The day I'm too busy for anything Blue, is the day you can pull my ring off my cold dead hand!"
Dave
Alive and well on the Emerald coast!
p.s. For every door that closes, God opens another. Don't be paying so much attention to the closed door that you walk right by God holding open your door!

Posted by: Mindy and Eric Cameron on Tue, Jan 03 at 13:51:11 EST
Toured in: 2000

Becca, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. We pray that you have the strength to make it through this hard time. As long as you and Rhett love eachother, you can get through anything. We love you!! If you want to talk give us a call.
Mindy; 513-515-2358 Eric: 513-515-2497

On a happier note, Eric took me to see Wicked for the New Year. I have been playing it straight for over a year in the car. I think he got the hint. The show was absolutely incredible. Pat Sajack sat in front of us so as you can guess we had good seats. Eric took a picture of Pat and got yelled at by about four different people who worked there. Heh,heh. Ana Gastayer from Saturday Night Live a few years back played the lead in the show. I got her autograph and pictures with her after the show, thanks for sneaking around back with me Eric!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and has a great New Year! Still waiting to see the show.... can't wait.

Posted by: Walt on Tue, Jan 03 at 15:02:51 EST
Toured in: 2001

If anyone has tickets to the NBA All Star Game in Houston in Feb '06 or knows of someone who can get tickets. (I'll PAY FOR THEM)

Please contact me!

Walt

Posted by: John Wyman on Tue, Jan 03 at 15:48:59 EST
Toured in: 03, 04

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year to my blue family!

I finally picked up my ATC ratings again and shortly thereafter ended up downstairs as our FLT instructor. What does this mean? 8-4 5 days a week. Oh yeah. :)

Thanks to the Jordans for the picture! E-Sherm and I met up over the Xmas break and were talking about your young'n! Congrats!!

And thanks of course to K-Dub and the whole -dub family! I put your picture right up next to the one from JT and Jeanette.

Anyhow, I'd better stop slacking and get to work. Love all of yas!
J-Balls

Posted by: STACEY on Tue, Jan 03 at 16:30:39 EST
Toured in: 1996

What up, TIB 96?? Just wanted to wish each of you a wonderful and blessed New Year. You're right, Francis...Ten years seems like just ten days ago, huh?? TIB was tough, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat!!!
Anyways, Happy New Year to TIB 96 and the rest of the "BLUE" family.

Stacey

Posted by: Larry on Tue, Jan 03 at 16:57:25 EST

Greetings and Happy New Year from the flooded area of Northern California! Travis AFB did recieve some flooding from this past weekends storms that hit the area. Vacaville and Fairfield got hit really hard and have been deemed as disaster areas. A levee broke in Fairfield and closed westbound I-80 (due to chest high waters on the interstate)to San Francisco for the past 4 days. Several apartment complexes in Vacaville were total disaster areas with water as high as 2 feet from the ceilings! A lot of military personnel from Travis are now searching for new places to live. So with that, I ask each of you in joining me to please pray for ALL flood victims in the Northern California area. We are not expected to have any rain here for the next 2 days, but there is another storm brewing out in the Pacific and it is supposed to hit this area this weekend.

Posted by: Dave Jackson on Tue, Jan 03 at 19:01:01 EST
Toured in: 93

GREAT CEASERS GHOST!!! I know Jim W. did not say "Rad"???!!???
Whats next "Narly"????

Posted by: Jim Wintermyre on Tue, Jan 03 at 21:34:15 EST
Toured in: 95

Obviously, the concept of subtle humor eludes you guys. I guess I should have put "rad" in Austin Powers finger quotes and appended several smilies.

Oh, BTW Dave it's "gnarly" not "narly". That's what I hear anyway, I wouldn't know personally.

:):):):):)

Larry I hear ya, I drove right through that area early Monday, but only the stretch from 505 to 680, and I-80 was open on that section. There's been a lot of rain down here in Santa Cruz too, mudslides closing some roads for up to a month, power out at the house for the last day and half, but fortunately no floods. Good luck to you and all of those affected by the floods.

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry) on Wed, Jan 04 at 02:53:09 EST
Toured in: Narnia and back!

Hey Blue,

Thanks for the reinforcements (calvary) down at my old stompin' grounds (Eglin!) The rapid Blue air support is greatly appreciated and deeply felt by the newbies! The feedback is GOOD! Knew yall would come through in a pinch.

Dave D. I feel ya bro! Gotta do what ya gotta do! Parents come first! Nobody yellin' "fine" here! (LOL). Thanks for holdin' it down in the old Eglin hood! I've heard good things about you down there! But I just thought I delegate a little and spread it out some! Division of labor 'n what not! LOL! Besides bro, I needed some immediate Blue female input for Amanda. Some things only women can discuss openly among themselves.....and since my TIB tour step-mom - Kristy "#9" Penn HAS been "AWOL" from the board for a long, LONG time! Startin' toi get worried), I had to kick it in high gear and expedite! So no biggie bro, I know you are representin' well down at Eglin! Its the others down there who I'm worrie about! Eglin is a HUGE base yall! The biggest in the Air Force! So where's all my peeps down there? Jenny Oaks???? She worked for us at Lackland back in the day as support! And I know we got (have) some able bodies down at Hurlburt Field! Right! Just checkin'. Keep it alive D. Thanks for all you do!!! Continue to lead the way! You never know when or where the newbiew will pop up! And they come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.

So now you know that you never really know how much people need you and are relying on you for guidance until you are gone. Them youngin' need constant nuturin' and tendin' too yall! Even though you may think they are okay on their own, their outwards looks can be deceiving! Hencee the e-mail. People are shy bruh! They open up in e-mail and long-distance discourse. So don't take that to heart! Its no mark against all your hard work! It just means the girl is hungry for more Blue input and. Is still searchin'. Tahat's a good thing...right????

Tenisia.....thanks girl for helpin' out! I know it worked cause I have the e-mails ta prove it! You are "da BOMB" as they say! "rad" and "narley", and "like totally awesome" (can't call you "dude" though!!! LOL!

Tiega, I have not heard of those people you mentioned above. Are they priors, or relatives of priors or what? Check out and old-head (now deceased) the late Milt Hinton! Jazz cat! Met him and saw him play over in Pensacola back in '88! LOL! Waaaaay back in the day! He lived in pensacola I think. He was playin' with a trio of old-heads. Bobby Rosengarden (of Johnny Carson band fame) who I never knew existed until then was playing hand percussion for him! Cat was smokin!!!!! Big-time! Could not believe my eyes and ears!!!! Who would have thought......down in little 'ol Pensacola.....they have these amazing. free jazz- festivals every year!! And the scene down there is alive and well! Same with Jacksonville. Met all of Spyro Gyra and the Yellowjackets down there! Jimmy Haslip yall! Real nice guy too! Got backstage and autographs from everybody! And he even knew about Tops in Blue!

http://www.globalbass.com/archives/june2002/jimmy_haslip.htm


http://www.yellowjackets.com/discography/disc1.php

Bass funkmeister for real! Met him at a "master-class" performance he did for the Berklee students back in 91. Remeber that well, cause I had to cut (skip) a jazz drum lab with John Ramsey to see him play! He wasn't too happy with my excuse! Especially since I'm not a bass player! LOL! That was the Only "D" I got in my entire time at Berklee! LOL! All the rest were A's and B's! LOL! I swear to Roger and Wilco yall!!! Carried a 3.8 GPA the entire time! And that was with TWO part-time jobs to pay rent, bills, food, clothing and books!
Talk about "no sleep!" TIB is the warm up for the jungle out here yall! Time management. No logistical support at college yall! Sink or swim! And no team to push you forwards. TIB is our prep-school! And it works! Prepared me for Berklee! School is expensive yall!!!! Even with a scholarship (which helped a little!). And even. If you have the bread, you still gotta do the work and pass! No one can hand that to you! So thank your lucky stars for all the free advice and top-notch professional training, coaching, and mentoring yall get at world-wide, staging, and on tour yall!!!!! Because it does not exist out here! And what does exist......ain't cheap! LOL!

So that's for my Blue musician bro Tiega! And this one is for all the TIB staging techs/set-designers and builders):

http://filmforce.ign.com/articles/560/560424p1.html

Thas all yall! Sorries for hoggin'. I'll take the fines! I can afford it now! LOL!

Yoda G out...(the helpfulest board beaver of dem all! (Tryin' ta be anyway!) LOL! '05 say thanks to all your helpful baevers! I know you've had many throughout your long journey! And shower them with praise you should! Lewis and Clark could not have done it without their help, and neither can the "TIB Expeditionary Force". Yall know who they are! Every base has them! They greet you on arrival, feed you during set up, and see you off after tear-down! I love da beavers yall! Go see "Narnia" the movie and you'll know what I mean! Maybe TIB will do a Narnia themed show one year! I think out Time magic machine tour was sort of like Narnia! But the talking animals and the character voice-overs make it like the Wizard of Oz meets Alice Wonderland meets Sir Lancelot. All you need to know about life is in that movie! Like a Dickens novel only with animals as characters. And it works! Splendidly!
Brilliant! PLEASE go see it yall....its not your run of the mill Shrek schlock! LOL. Disney finally got it right! Special attention is given to the beavers!

Posted by: TaKeesha on Thu, Jan 05 at 01:04:19 EST
Toured in: 03

We did it!
Texas wins 41 - 38
How bout them Looooonghorns!!
You Know!
(that's my team if yall don't know!)

Posted by: Kerri Brooks on Thu, Jan 05 at 05:42:21 EST
Toured in: 2003

You know... seeing John Wyman on the board make me think of a long-standing uh, "discussion" he and I had while on tour. Does anyone know who Moby is? How about Trevor Rabin? They are two very distinctly different people, right? Can anyone back me up here? Mr. Wyman needs to be schooled on his musicians!

Love ya Wyman! :)

-kb

Posted by: Paige Oatis on Thu, Jan 05 at 06:36:51 EST
Toured in: The Best 2000!

Becca.....I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I know it's got to be terribly hard to handle the loss of a pregnancy. If you need me, please call. I am here for you. 314-517-7805 Don't forget to lean on God for strength.

Everyone else, where you at? pgluvs2sing4u07@yahoo.com write a (TIB)sister or something.

Monica, I called you girlie! Where are you at?

Love you TIB 2000! (and all other priors) Lotz uv BLUE love! Paige

Posted by: walt on Thu, Jan 05 at 09:03:16 EST
Toured in: 2001

Today is the day to be in staging..

Spurs and Longhorns won. You talk about an easy day.

ONly 13 hours of rehersals instead of the usual 18 hours.

2005 probably got the day off.... NOT!

Walt

Posted by: Paul Libby on Thu, Jan 05 at 10:58:00 EST

Trevor Rabin? I have not heard his name in a while. I know he is now very successful with his movie scoring. If there is a big movie out there, Trevor probably has a credit in the scoring. But remember that old YES song "owner of a lonely heart"? Trevor Rabin is resposible for that one.

Posted by: Uncle Rico on Thu, Jan 05 at 11:03:01 EST
Toured in: 1982

I remember "owner of a Lonely heart". It came out in 1982. I remember hearing it while I was throwing a football over a mountain!

Posted by: Poppa Grady on Thu, Jan 05 at 16:41:31 EST
Toured in: 02

I remember learning to play that song and taking it off the ALBUM. Not some cheap little disc that has clarity for days. You can't even hear all the scratches that are supposed to be there, you know what I mean. Chris Squire Rocks!!!!!!

Posted by: Paul on Thu, Jan 05 at 18:14:04 EST
Toured in: 01

I agree with you Grady. Chris Squire does rock. I believe he may be better then GEDDY LEE. Kate Palmer?? Did you see that? I said Chris Squire is better then GEDDY LEE!

Posted by: JD on Thu, Jan 05 at 22:21:34 EST
Toured in: Y2K

Just thought I'd pop in and say hello. I'm missing my BLUE family right now and would love to hear from you guys!! TIB2000 where you at???? 210-647-0615 or 210-885-8799. Give me a call.

Becca, I'm sorry to hear about your loss. Just know that God knows what he's doing. I went through this myself and I know you'll make it. You're strong and you're BLUE!!!! My prayers are with you my sister!!! Love ya!!!

Lola, congrats on your new addition!!! I know you could use some sleep right about now.

TIB2000: Miss you guys so very much!!!

TIB2005: Wish I were there with you!!! Keep on keeping it real and enjoy the ride. It's the best/hardest of your life and trust me, it'll make you better!!!

TIB2006: I can't wait to see you at staging!!!! Get ready for the hardest, most rewarding year of your life. Just remember to be true to yourself and give this amazing program everything you've got. You'll get back more from this program that you could ever give; so give all you have!!!

LOVE YA BLUE!!!!

JD

Posted by: Becca on Fri, Jan 06 at 01:19:42 EST
Toured in: Y2K

JD sending you a bi-i-i-g Bec hug all the way from Washington!

This will sound weird but today smelled like Texas and I missed San Antonio and TIB family even more today than usual. Sigh....
Paige,Mindy, Eric, hugs to you too. Thanks.

Love hugs and smiles,
Becca

Posted by: Mel Ritz on Fri, Jan 06 at 03:21:09 EST
Toured in: 98 Baby!

Hello friends....

I saw Celine Dion perform tonight at Caesars Palace and it was phenominal. We know that Celine can sing and is a performer, but she can also dance and "works the crowd" well. Aside from Celine, her 48 dancers were stunning as were the LIVE musicians and backup vocalists. I sat in almost the last row of the 3rd mezzanine with my binoculars and watched each individual person and it was really inspiring to see everyone interact and perform.
If you're like me and are trying to make performing and entertaining your full time job, please remember to immerse yourself in everything possible....from music lessons, dance lessons, studying theory to networking in your local community with other artists. It's just so important. A few of Celine's dancers have taught dance classes at UNLV's dance department and it makes a difference to study with them and absorb what they have to say.
Just felt like sharing the experience with you all. To everyone "Making It Happen"....Edward, Corey, Kahlil, Edward, Walter, Regina and all those people I haven't met yet, keep challenging yourself and live each day better than you did yesterday.

Love,
~Mel

Posted by: Geoffrey Stirrup on Fri, Jan 06 at 10:57:58 EST
Toured in: 2006

What's going on everybody,I haven't posted in awhile. Last thing I want is for people to think I'm shady cuz they aint heard from me! I wanted to be guilty of wishing everybody a Happy and prosperous New Year. Hope everybody holiday was good. Big Up's to TEXAS L. for u texas fans...!!! Also the time is winding down for us to head to the wonderful gates to the Air Force!!..lol. I'm looking forward to it (believe me). Ya'll have a good day and a safe weekend.

Posted by: Julie Little on Fri, Jan 06 at 15:31:02 EST
Toured in: WWTC 05

Happy EVERYTHING Blue Family!!

Just wanted to wish all of the TIB '06 selectees love and Godspeed! I know you are all pumped and ready to get going! I'm pumped for you! I can't wait to see the outcome of the magic you will create! :-)

Becca- I am saddened to hear of your loss. my prayers are with you and your family and my heart goes out to you, as I know how hard it can be physically and emotionally. God will take care of you, trust in that!

Tenisia- I had no idea that you had been though so much! I feel so blessed to have shared a moment with you at Worldwide! Even if it was in the van when we first arrived! :-) You are truely amazing!

TaKeesha! - CALL YOUR MOMMA ! :) love ya girl!

Thank you BLUE - for opening my eyes to what I have the potential to become! it will never be forgotten.

Are there any priors in the CHEYENNE WYOMING area, I have questions and tons of things I would love to work on if you can make the time!

Striving for BLUE everyday!

Julie

Posted by: Katie Palmer on Fri, Jan 06 at 16:19:03 EST
Toured in: 2001...

Paul: I see how you are trying to turn Grady against me, but at least Uncle Rico is on my side!
-Katie Lee ;o)

p.s. I remember Mark Sobus' Winger undershirt he wore for good luck *lol*

Posted by: Walt on Fri, Jan 06 at 16:23:23 EST
Toured in: 2001

For those in San Antonio or planning on being here soon (other than selectees) here is some info on upcoming shows.

Jan 14 - Lila Cockral Theater w/ Will Downing, Regina Belle, Gerald Albright and me. http://www.str8silly.com/winterfest.jpg

Jan 20 - Sheppard AFB (email me for more info)

Feb 4 - Sunset Station Headliner: ME!! http://www.str8silly.com/sunset2.jpg

Feb 11 - Lila Cockral Theater w/ J. Anthony Brown, Sheryl Underwood, singer Lenny Williams...and yeah me again. http://www.str8silly.com/loveandhappiness.jpg

Mar 17 - Fayetteville, NC @ the East Coast Step Show - I'll be hosting the show. http://www.ecstepshow

If you can make or know someone in these areas pass the word.

Thanks Mel for the encouragement... I need it right about now.

Prayer Warrior Update:
Wife is on Bedrest til May...LONG TIME!! Pray for her and the baby! Then say a special screnff & patience prayer for me.

Thanks to all who have went on bended knee already!

Prayers UP!
Walt

Posted by: Dave Davis on Sat, Jan 07 at 11:23:40 EST
Toured in: 2000

Becca:Huggie, huggie!

Walt:Glad to here the Mrs. is at home at least. Still praying for you all. Re:shows-Break a leg or face or whatever!

The world lost a smooth voice and a great man yesterday. You can catch his last performance on BET tomorrow at 7p.m. eastern.
You'll be missed Mr.Lou Rawls!

Lots O' Blue Love,
Dave

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry) on Sat, Jan 07 at 13:30:08 EST
Toured in: Narnia '86 'n 87

Hey Dave D,

Check your e-mail clem.....I sent you a lil' sumpin'!

Yoda G
Former Eglinite!

Posted by: Yoda G on Sun, Jan 08 at 04:29:13 EST
Toured in: Blue Narnia

Hey Blue,

This one's for YOU! Hope you find it interesting and thought provoking:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/2728595.stm

And all you vocaloids thought you had it rough with the last song of the patriotic set! LOL! Magine holdin' a note THIS long!!!!! You'd need the lungs of a Norm Seawright or a Pavarotti er somethin'!!!

John Cage was a strange bird for sure! He was always "pushin' the envelope" of musical expression. I remember quite well the week he died back in 1992. I was at Berklee, and my roomate (an Asian percussionist studying mallets - that's marimba and vibebraphone for all yall uninitiated in the world of percussion, LOL) put our heads together and decide to do a public tribute to John Cage out on the street in Harvard Square along the strip where all the musicians and magicians (is there really any difference? Lol!) perform on a daily basis. I had already been performing there with a couple of full-time street musicians doing Bob Marley cover tunes - the students and tourists eat that stuff up!) with a Hatian guy named Luko Adjafe. He's an extremely talented street performer/vocalist and had made a name for himself all over Boston back in the 80's and 90's doing his thang in subway stops all over Boston's vast labyrinth of train lines. I even flew with him to New York City to introduce him to an influential contact I had there named Earl Toon who was a producing young talent on his own label. That name ring a bell with anybody out there in Blueland? He was a vocalist himself, and sang lead, backup and played keyboard for Kool and The Gang! Rember them yall?????? ("Celebrate" and "Get Down On It") SEVEN gold and platinum albums yall!!!!:

http://music.yahoo.com/ar-254885-bio--Kool--The-Gang

...and I got to see 'em all hangin' on his wall! Kool huh? Real nice guy too! Had his on studio and everything. A real force in bringing up new talent in R&B, Pop, Soul, Gospel, and other genres. Good guy to know yall! Look him up Blue!!!

Anyway, I digress! So this particular thing we did for John Cage was just a one day event/tribute/experiment! And it was not designed to make any money! In fact we didn't put a collection hat/box out or anything. It was purely intended as a tribute and to pay homage to the recently deceased arranger/musician. His love and fascination with all things percussive made it even more important for us. We used flower pots turned upsidedown, and all sorts of various household items that produced a distinct sound (which would travel far and cut through the din of the bustling crowds and the Harvard Square car traffic). It was a smashing success figuratively and literally (we went through some flower pots - unintentionally - LOL and some glasses filled with varying amounts of water, here and there throughtout the day). But otherwise we were well-received by the crowds in the square that day. Especially by the classically trained Boston and New England Conservatory students and those studying classical at BU and Harvard and elsewhere. Many of them stopped to chat with us between sets. It was all free-style improv! No script or sheet music etc. Or prerehearsed stuff! Totally spontaneous combustion! LOL! People loved it, and we had a big sign that read:

"Dedicated to the memory of the late great John Cage d.1992."

So that's my little John Cage story yall. Strangest of the strange he was!
The Andy Warhol of musical arranging and performance art! Fascinating man he was indeed.

Yoda G out!

P.S. Walt, you were right about the late Lou Rawls. He too was a powerful force that will be missed! He had that serious smooth deep tone! The Luther of the low-end!!!! Perhaps? Rest in peace Lou! Tony G, thanks for lettin' me know about that soon the news broke! You too Walt. Happy Blue Year to you both. Be strong Walt! Good things await thee. The future is yours! Be thankful for what you have! Pray and move on! And to our own Blue singer/songwriter from here in Philly Dennis Smith (TIB '86os Alum) who I spoke to just yeterdat by phone and is doing amazing things with EMI International! And has been in the trenches out here for many moons since his TIB days! Keep pushin' D-wal! "Duke, duke, duke, duke of Earl....." LOL! Yoda G out but not down, and "down" but not out!

Posted by: Willameena Q. Rumpshaker on Sun, Jan 08 at 15:35:48 EST
Toured in: Yes

Wait, did I read that correctly? Baby Yoda Gerry G sent someone a LITTLE something??

Posted by: Yoda G (To: Walteezy) on Sun, Jan 08 at 16:53:37 EST
Toured in: Ride, Cpt. ride-

Oh yeah Blue...almost forgot,

In the Kool and the Gang link I posted above Mr. Earl Toon is pictured in the lower left corner! The bro wit da beret on!:

http://music.yahoo.com/ar-254885---Kool--The-Gang

Member "Ladies Night"

Walt '01......YOU WERE IN THE ORIGINAL "NEW EDITION" bruh? Did not know that. I'm not "laughin'" bruh! Them guys had a nice tight sound! Whatevah happened to'em clem? Voices changed or what? Solo careers? Any of them still around the scene doin' any recordin'? Why did you leave 'em? Love to hear that whole story! For real. Might be some lessons there for the youngins. LOL! Share it bruh.

Hope you and the Mrs. Are doin' okay! Prayin' for ya in a big way. If at first ya don't succeed, try 'an fly again! Don't quit! Get back on that horse and "Ride Captain, ride on your sailing ship" (member dat song?).

Yoda Geezy...off da Wall-teezy! Nevah cuttin' cheezie on the buseezie! LOL!

Posted by: jai on Sun, Jan 08 at 17:16:14 EST
Toured in: 02/04

Actually New Edition released a new album last year through Bad Boy. However, a lack of promotion and/or quality of product hindered unit sales and the group didn't even get a top 10 single from the release. But c'mon...I mean, they don't have Jam & Lewis writing for them anymore, so what do you expect.

Just a LITTLE FYI

jai

Posted by: Yoda G on Mon, Jan 09 at 02:29:00 EST
Toured in: Blue Edition

Jai (02 'n 04)

Thank ye kindly Sir for thy FYI. Thou art very heeeeeelpfill! I did not know that. Very innnnnnterestin'! We haver a record biz statmeister in thee!

Are ye still in Japan? If so, how's thy life these days? How's the studio comin' along? Have you told all the Blue family about your services and what you can do for them if they decide to give you a try?

You should! I know thou art a capable Blue bruthuh wit da biz savy and the ingineering (sic) expertise. Your input, talents, and hard work are greatly appreciated by all, and especially by the one they call Yoda G! Glad we had the chance to meet at Dover! Glad I was able to assist with morale boosting after your unfortunate incident back at the home front. You are also a strong young Blue Jedi warrior. And continue to sheppard thy Blue youngins ye must! And praise and good blessings shall be heaped onto thee! Thank ye kindly.---Yoda G (Pittsburgh Steelers in da house! Whoooweee! Yowza! Bang dem Bengals! LOL!) Tricky "gadget plays" yall! Laterals fer DAZE!!!!

Posted by: Walt on Mon, Jan 09 at 08:54:23 EST
Toured in: 2001

Greetings All...

Here is a good story about Noland Wright (TIB '06 Selectee)

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/img/dn/neighbors/pdfs/mesquite01072006.pdf

Peace
Walt

Posted by: Breona Rancher on Mon, Jan 09 at 22:06:54 EST
Toured in: 2006 Selectee

All right Nolan!!! I am so proud of you my fellow brother! See you in a few weeks!! I can't wait to see the rest of you too, TIB 06 selectees!!

Breona Rancher

Posted by: Breona Rancher on Tue, Jan 10 at 04:24:27 EST
Toured in: 2006 Selectee

Wow!! To add to Nolan's great article, Jenna Woolfolk and myself also appeared in the local military paper last week!

http://www.kaiserslauternamerican.com/artman/publish/printer_3557.shtml


Breona

Posted by: Walt on Tue, Jan 10 at 08:30:26 EST
Toured in: 2001

That's a first Breona.... someone giving Specialty Auditions a shout out and plug!

I'm touched.

I mean really... really touched!

I'm all warm and fuzzy inside. Wait a minute, that the same feeling you get when you get the flu shot at the clinic.

Thanks Breona! Much Respect!
Walt

Posted by: Miss Glo on Tue, Jan 10 at 08:52:36 EST

Walter call the Production Center 671-2359

Posted by: Breona Rancher on Tue, Jan 10 at 09:29:18 EST
Toured in: 2006 Selectee

Walt, you are more than welcome!! I mean, it's one of the funniest things that happens there, and pretty memorable too...! I was just stating the truth! {:0)

Breona

Posted by: T.A. Burrows on Tue, Jan 10 at 10:03:24 EST
Toured in: 1978, 1980, 1983

Greetings "Family in Blue"... It's been ages since I've been "on board"; so many changes, so many new names...so many women, so little time...oh, sorry, that's another subject! Anyhow, just want to give a shout out to all our priors...and a few in particular:

WALT - My prayers are with you and the Mrs. Glad to hear she's home. Also glad to see you're keepin' busy doin' your thing. Proud of ya' son! Holler back when you get a chance!

KAHLIL - Yo K, where ya at? Ain't heard from you since Moses was a baby. Send a brotha a note or sumthin...

FRANCINE - As always much blue love and hugs a plenty... Miss ya kiddo...

MEMBERS of AFMDB - Man, I miss you guys!... I'm sure you rocked WWTC as always. Hope to be back next year. (Note: Jim - snowboarding? Be careful, you ain't as young as I used to be)

CHIEF - Hope to talk to you soon. Spurs lookin' good this year, but look out for the Suns when we get Amare back! (Notice I didn't mention my Knicks?) Please give my best to Linda...

A TIB FLASHBACK - "The Garden State Bowl Halftime Show" - anyone old enough to remember it?

BRIAN BIRD - Congrats on your Golden Roger and welcome to the Club!

TIB 2006 SELECTEES - Wishing you the best of success! Work hard to shine on and off stage, and make us proud!

That's it for now! And for those who might be wondering I'm keeping busy with showbiz these days. Started my own entertainment company, performing a lot, and life is good. Stop by and visit both my personal and company websites if you like - www.taburrows.com.

Wishing you all Peace, Love, and God's blessings for a wonderful and prosperous 2006...

T.A.

Posted by: Spencer on Tue, Jan 10 at 10:05:38 EST
Toured in: 2001

Okay I know its almost a week late but I have to give a shout out to UT. Hook'em Horns!!! If you missed the game too bad, because it was game that will go down in history. Austin is still going crazy from the win. The official celebration is soon and can't wait for it.

05 - Keep on keeping on. Your ALMOST there.

06 Selectees - Hope you have everything taken care of because your time is about to be here. Don't forget to shed the music and most of all WORKOUT because Ed is going to kill you!!

Chief, love ya as always!!

Posted by: Larry Frey on Tue, Jan 10 at 14:44:27 EST
Toured in: staging in 3 wks

Here is the article that The Tailwind wrote up on myself and former A1C - NOW SENIOR AIRMAN Nolan Wright wrote about us!

http://public.travis.amc.af.mil/public/story%2020051216_04.asp

See everyone at staging! 21 days and counting!!!!

Posted by: Francine on Tue, Jan 10 at 16:18:13 EST
Toured in: 88 & 89

Manny - What a neat surprise! Thanks so much!

Stan - What a good looking crew you have!

Becca - Sending lots of love your way...

Hey "Sis-Tah" - They didn't have another black in "our shirt"... if not in by next time I go, I might have to send ya mine!

An OOOOOoooold Brighter Shade

Posted by: Paul on Tue, Jan 10 at 18:33:59 EST
Toured in: 01

I was just trying to get a couple pointers from Uncle Rico on throwing a football. And I think my throwing arm has gotten worse. Do NOT play catch with Uncle rico. I think his nephew Kip can throw better.
Please excuse the entry above. I got a little trigger happy with the enter key.

Posted by: Bobby J on Tue, Jan 10 at 21:56:53 EST
Toured in: 05'

...Oh yeah! Larry....another one for you that I didn't mention before: Yes, LAPTOP!!!!...and an external hard drive if you don't already have one...After about a month, CD's are many and eventually get old and scratched. Your laptop can feed direct to your TD-20 as well, yup!

Posted by: Nolan Wright on Tue, Jan 10 at 23:44:53 EST
Toured in: 2006

Well... I just got back from leave on Fri and I've been trying to read everything thats been going on. That can take a while I've learned. I've been taking all the advice given to heart. I had soooo much I wanted to write as I was reading and now I'm drawing a blank. Well I'll leave everyone with this.

Don't worry about things you have no control over.
It will only stress you out.
Let God handle it for you since you can't anyway :)

P.S. Can't wait to carry the torch!!!

Posted by: Kerri on Wed, Jan 11 at 09:29:52 EST
Toured in: 2003

Nolan, if there's one thing (one? yeah right!) TIB has taught me, it's the ability to let the things that do not matter, truly not matter. You don't always need to know "why" things happen the way they do or are the way they are, you just need to do it. You will learn that the calendar and "day time" and "night time" don't really matter. As long as you know what time you need to be at wherever it is you are supposed to be next and what you need to do there, you are good! I'm sure every Prior can attest to this... you will forget what day of the week it is, or even what month it is, but it won't matter! It's so cool! You will eat when there is food, you will sleep when you can, and you will work until the work is done! Learn to work well as a team and you will have more time for the eating and sleeping parts!

Good luck '06!

-KB

Posted by: Mindy and Eric Cameron on Wed, Jan 11 at 14:56:18 EST
Toured in: 2000

Just wanted to let all you priors in the San Antonio area know that trouble is headed your way.... Eric got orders to Brooks!!! Yay, I can't wait to see you all. Eric will be there at the end of April sometime, and I'll be there in June after I graduate. Percy, I'll be getting in touch with you about good places to live. Can you belive it? Your baby girl is coming to Texas!!!
-Eric and Mindy

Posted by: Walt on Wed, Jan 11 at 15:36:32 EST
Toured in: 2001

That's great Mindy... we need more female vocalists for the '07 Worldwide!

See you at staging '08!

Walt

Posted by: Kellee Ryan on Wed, Jan 11 at 17:34:34 EST
Toured in: 95, etc

Hey Blue
Calling all priors stationed in Korea...I am in dire need of a hookup to have a couple of patches made. Will send cash for items plus shipping. Please reply to this posting and I will email your address with details. Thanks in advance!

Kellee
The Wolverine of Love

Posted by: Kahlil on Wed, Jan 11 at 20:29:24 EST
Toured in: 94,95

unbelievable.

PHOENIX, Arizona (AP) -- Fetuses do not count as passengers when it comes to determining who may drive in the carpool lane, a judge has ruled.

Candace Dickinson was fined $367 for improper use of a carpool lane, but contended her unborn child qualified to use the lane. Motorists who use the lanes normally must carry at least one passenger during weekday rush hours.

Municipal Judge Dennis Freeman rejected Dickinson's argument Tuesday, applying a "common sense" definition in which an individual is someone who occupies a "separate and distinct" space in a vehicle.

"The law is meant to fill empty space in a vehicle," the judge said.

Sgt. Dave Norton stopped Dickinson's car November 8. When asked how many people were in the car, Dickinson said two, pointing to "her obvious pregnancy," the officer said.

Norton said Dickinson's theory "would require officers to carry guns, radios and pregnancy testers, and I don't think we want to go there."

Posted by: nolan wright on Thu, Jan 12 at 00:46:25 EST
Toured in: 2006

That goes in the books with the....I spilt coffee on myself...hm.. let me sue the place I bought it from because it didn't have a warning on it saying "caution hot!" and to think that she won!! what are people thinking... A robber is on your roof, falls though and lands on a kitchen knife and sues you.

Just pointing out the .....Interesting things people have done.

enough said...

Posted by: Walt on Thu, Jan 12 at 11:05:53 EST
Toured in: 2001

Kahlil... I'm on your heals! Not really cause I aint' got a movie coming out soon. Well I do, but its only available in the beeded sections of the video store!

Walt in the News...
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/img/dn/neighbors/pdfs/mesquite1231.pdf

Big thanks to TIB '06 selectee Nolan Wright's father (aka Mr. Wright) who told their Pastor about me after seeing me host Worldwide this year.

Thanks Chief for the call again... Whenever, Wherever!

Walt

Posted by: Kellee Ryan on Thu, Jan 12 at 11:57:24 EST
Toured in: 95, etc

Hey Blue

Yeah, I saw the thing about the carpooling fetuses today. However, I have to say that the hot coffee lawsuit had a little more merit than you might think. (I heard this firsthand from a lawyer friend when I was ranting about it one day and I also looked it up...
http://lawandhelp.com/q298-2.htm)

Anyway, it used to be that McDonalds did not regulate the temperature of their coffee machines so at one McD's you might get lukewarm, and another you might get sub-nuclear hot coffee. At this particular McDonalds, the lady was handed her coffee through the drive-thru window with no lid on it and in the process of receiving it a little sloshed on her hand, causing an instant 2nd degree burn. Now basic nerve reaction to a burn is to draw away, and when she cringed she spilled the full cup of coffee into her lap, causing second AND third degree burns to her inner thighs, crotch, and buttocks. Basically all her clothing from knees to belly button were burned onto her skin and had to be scrubbed off by medical personnel and she required extensive skin grafts to those areas. As a result of the lawsuit, all McDonalds are now required to regulate the temperature of the coffee and coffee warmer and all cups and lids carry the warning. This was an 81-year old woman and she even said after the fact that she would not have sued if McDonalds had refused to pay her medical bills.

So yeah, the world is filled with incredible acts of stupidity and shortsightedness but every once in awhile lawyers are good for getting someone true justice instead of just filing frivolous lawsuits. This concludes your freshman law school case study for today. :)

The Wolverine of Love
PS -- Still seeking a prior in Korea, see previous posting

Posted by: Paul on Thu, Jan 12 at 12:27:04 EST
Toured in: 01

That woman that sued McD's over the coffe spill was not an 81 year old woman. It was KELLY RYAN!

Just kidding. See you next WW Kelly.

Posted by: Paul on Thu, Jan 12 at 12:28:26 EST
Toured in: 01

I mean Kellee, not Kelly. DUH.

Posted by: Kellee on Thu, Jan 12 at 12:56:01 EST

Nah, that coffee wasn't me. I hate coffee and I stil have a hard time eating McDonalds after having ate it on every continent while on tour. Kinda like how a lot of people can't stand sub sandwiches or pizza after tour.

Posted by: Kellee on Thu, Jan 12 at 12:57:15 EST

one more thing...does anyone else think that "The Carpooling Fetuses" would be a great name for a band?

Posted by: Paul on Thu, Jan 12 at 13:00:02 EST
Toured in: 01

Yes.

Posted by: walt on Thu, Jan 12 at 14:36:25 EST
Toured in: 2001

The name is hot!

AND I HATE FINGER SANDWICHES AND COLD PIZZA!

Posted by: JD on Thu, Jan 12 at 15:52:30 EST
Toured in: 2000

Anybody up for a hoagie??? Well count me out!!!

Posted by: jai on Thu, Jan 12 at 19:06:35 EST
Toured in: 02/04

Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome to the stage for you listening and viewing pleasure "THE CARPOOLING FETUSES"

Manfred and I sen our love and "whaddups" to everyone and I ask that you keep us in mind as our 6 months of work get put on stage for the first time tomorrow night. Stress levels are high and I find myself sounding like a cross between Edward Jones and Jeri White, "Don't be up here half steppin' on stage like you're doing me some kind of favor.....'cuz you're not" "Guys, I don't wanna hear the labor pains, I just wanna see the baby"

Anyhow, I need to get back to business. The "fetuses" sound check in 30 min.

jai

Posted by: tammie montgomery on Thu, Jan 12 at 19:15:22 EST
Toured in: mom 02/04

well, i did it again, i will try one more time.. Jamie you guys are truly in my prayers.. wish i were there to help with this.. everyone else.. I miss you all so much...email me sometime.. miss hearin from my tib family

momma montgomery

Posted by: Mike "Manfred" Manfredonia on Thu, Jan 12 at 20:38:59 EST
Toured in: 2004

What's up everyone? Just prepping here in Japan for the Jai's show. I know he already mentioned that above, but oh well. What he said about sounding like Ed and Jeri is true. All the "fun" little catch phrases from tour are frequently being blurted out. SPEAKERS TO THE TRUCK! Well, we've hopefully got us a setup and rehearsal to do, so I'm out.

Manfred

Posted by: Dave Davis on Thu, Jan 12 at 23:26:50 EST
Toured in: 2000

I'll take a pass on the hoagie JD, but Mindy will have a PB& J!
Repeat after me Min, "Donde esta tu hospital!" ;-P

Lots O' Blue Love,
Dave
"Good night, sleep tight and pleasant dreams to you..."

Posted by: Kerri on Fri, Jan 13 at 10:36:09 EST
Toured in: 2003

Ooo! Meat & cheese trays! Oh and those cute little crusty rolls that tear up the roof of your mouth! Just what I wanted after driving 8-12 hours, unloading a truck 20-60 feet away (and up/downhill) from the loading dock, busting my butt for 4-6 hours tweaking a set that hardly ever goes together the same way twice, and being doused in hydraulic fluid.

But thank you anyway, I know it's not required. We'll knock your socks off during the show anyway!

Why? Cuz we can and we're gonna! Yeeeaaaahhh, man!

Posted by: Katie Palmer on Fri, Jan 13 at 13:01:08 EST
Toured in: 2001...

My favorite part of set-up and tear-down was the FOOD!!! I love cold pizza, I love ANY food!!! ...But, watch out for me on the days we got no food! *lol* ;o)

PAUL- You are cracking me up..."GOSH!"

Kellee and Jai- where can I get the album? "THE CARPOOLING FETUSES" That is funny cr@p! Kellee, is the first track entitle "But Mommmmmmmmmmmmmmm..." ???

*Katie Lee-Dynamite

Posted by: Kellee again on Fri, Jan 13 at 13:13:34 EST

Uhhhh yeah. Anyway, if you haven't already heard, the Carpooling Fetuses will be opening for Dave Jackson's band -- Sniff Ratner and the Zygalectrics. Coming soon to a venue near you!

Posted by: Larry Frey on Fri, Jan 13 at 15:56:16 EST
Toured in: soon

I just read through the whole board on here and noticed a posting from Kent. I totally appricitate the kind words. KEEP IN THE CIRCLE!!! You will be surprised at how well your chops will get stronger doing that.
Also, to ALL prior drummers as well as this years drummer, Bobby, there is a book out (for about a year now, actually) called "A Drummer's Bible" by Jason Gianni. I highly recommed that you get this book. It has every style of musical genre possible from A-Z. The author, Jason Gianni, is a personal good friend of mine who I had the pleasure of going to Penn State University with "back in the day". Jason now lives in San Francisco, CA and we see each other about once a week just to hang out. If you have ever heard the "Theme from Spongebob Squarepants", that is Jason doing all the percussion throughout the theme song as well as the whole show. Best place to buy the book is on Amazon.com It also comes with a CD so that you can hear the beats as well and play along with them. This is definitely the best learning tool ever!

In other Travis AFB news, I was giving a briefing yesterday at the FTAC center (First Term Airman Center), and no sooner did I introduce myself and a question arose from the back of the room of about 50 airmen. A female airman (E-2) stood up and asked me if I was down at Lackland AFB back in November in which I answered "yes". Then she asked if I was the person that sang "Open Arms" and I answered "yes" again. She remembered seeing me perform on Saturday night with about 30 of the other airmen that were in the briefing I gave. Small world, right?

Posted by: K-Dub on Fri, Jan 13 at 17:26:32 EST
Toured in: 2004

Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm in Houston for a couple of weeks. If there are any priors here in town and want to get together, give me a shout.

K-Dub

Posted by: Mel Ritz on Fri, Jan 13 at 17:38:04 EST
Toured in: 98 Baby!

Hey everyone...

As I registered for classes at UNLV yesterday, I walked into the dance department to find that the Las Vegas cast of the broadway musical Hairspray had taken over out studio to rehearse for the opening of their show at the Luxor Casino in February. I was floored people! I auditioned for this show about 2 months ago and now here they were blocking the show in the same studio that I take dance classes in. After spying through the office at their rehearsal, I couldn't help but think of staging and how the process has many parallel's, but TIB staging in much more intense. To me, the performers seemed a bit "green", but it was still interesting to watch and take notes on. I had to laugh when I walked through the hallway outside the studio and noticed about 4 picnic tables full of food and candy out for the performers....they took like 5 breaks in an hour!!! What a luxury!! When I toured I can remember shoving food into my bag to save for later......like when I hadn't eaten in 10 hours and had 1 break and was starving for a crumb of food. HA!

Anyway, TIB is such a classroom for how to prepare yourself for the entertainment world outside of the Air Force. I'll watch the production at the Luxor and give feedback on the show.

~Mel
:)

Posted by: Spencer on Fri, Jan 13 at 17:55:54 EST
Toured in: 2001

Katie with no food!! Wow, that is something I never want to have to go through again. That is worse than taking a small childs most prized toy away and taunting them for hours. Will you agree Katie? You must be out of D*%$ mind if you don't. Love ya girl!!

Takeesha, where u at girl?

Spencer

Posted by: Walt on Fri, Jan 13 at 21:49:43 EST
Toured in: 2001

Larry... it's not a small world.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
That's TOPS IN BLUE and "The Magic of Music!"

Posted by: Christian and Stacy Martinez on Fri, Jan 13 at 22:10:40 EST
Toured in: 04

I know its a little late but here is the link to our wedding pictures. Hope you like them!

www.kriechphoto.com/12.02.05

Posted by: Norm Laird on Sat, Jan 14 at 01:41:48 EST
Toured in: '92/'04

Happy New Year Blue family! Love ya'. Be blessed and thankful we get to see another year alive and well.
Walt, my in-laws were rolling at your show. They said you were the best up there...no I didn't pay them to say that. The feature act (with all due respect) should be opening for you! Keep doin' what you do, man. We're proud of you. Me and Erica will be praying for you and your wife. Drop me a line when you can: 210-219-0933.
Norm

Posted by: Kerri on Sat, Jan 14 at 07:33:20 EST
Toured in: 2003

K-Dub, hey when are you coming back to SC? This place is a little short in fun department and it would be nice to see a familiar face!

KB

Posted by: K-Dub on Sat, Jan 14 at 17:35:00 EST
Toured in: 2004

I'm not sure KB. I'm in Houston right now, NCOA in March...maybe sometime in the Summer. I really can't say for sure, but I'll see you in November for sure. Talk to you soon.

K-Dub

Posted by: Chris Burch on Tue, Jan 17 at 02:20:49 EST
Toured in: 1998

The board is back in operation...more techincal problems with the host servers.

Chris

Posted by: jai on Tue, Jan 17 at 10:16:43 EST
Toured in: 02/04

Greetings!

Well, after a three day hibernation, we're back up and running. The 3 months of prep for the show this weekend took a lot out of all of us. The show turned out great as we knew it would. I had to crack some faces even up until showtime, but nevertheless, we pulled it off and managed to fill the house to folks standing against the back wall and even outside the door.

We had some hard working techs, one being Manfred, who gave his leave time to come work harder than he has since tour. But with all the hard work came success and commendation from the club staff on how professional we handled ourselves and talks of two more shows booked around this area.

Thanks to all the priors who sent their words of encouragement and support. We truly thank you and appreciate it. I was extremely upset after learning that my OIC wouln't let me attend staging this year, but maybe there's a reason. Maybe there are things in store for me here.

Thanks again.

jai

Posted by: Kerri on Tue, Jan 17 at 10:21:00 EST
Toured in: 2003

Could it be? Is this really the next Yukon?!? How cool would that be?!?! Check it out!

http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060114-F-2185F-091.jpg

I'd wanna be a driver fo' sho'!

Posted by: Breona Rancher on Tue, Jan 17 at 10:33:14 EST
Toured in: 2006 Selectee

Wow, that picture is cool!! Is there really a vehicle like that??

Posted by: JDV (not Jay-Z) on Tue, Jan 17 at 19:44:07 EST
Toured in: 2003

UGH...As a prior graphic designer (pre-military), I have nothing but the worst critiques for that "new" vehicle look...maybe '06 will be fortunate enough to have a peel party! ('03 knows what I'm talking about) :) God Bless!

JDV (not Jay-Z)
TIB 2003
Future TIB 2006

Posted by: Kerri on Tue, Jan 17 at 20:34:12 EST
Toured in: 2003

Yup that is a real truck! It's part of the AF's new recruiting sceme. Yeah, JDV, I agree with you, but if you'd look at that pic again you'll notice that the upper half of the truck is GREY!!! I think it's a tribute to The Silver Bullet and Music Box! Maybe part of why we are so jaded is that they did they switch on us mid-tour. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed for a peel party anyway!

hmm....

Posted by: Spencer on Tue, Jan 17 at 22:36:06 EST
Toured in: 2001

Amen to that Kerri and JDV! It needs to be restored to the original state! I have my fingers crossed with you.

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry) on Wed, Jan 18 at 03:32:26 EST
Toured in: Toungue tales!

Howdeeeee Blue,

Since yall were on the subject of food 'n what not...

Mel: YOU got CRUMBS in staging???? Mannnn....back in the day, we hadda hunt down the meece (or is is mice? LOL) in the theatre to steal their crumbs!!!! LOL At least in combat school they drop ya into the woods and you can hunt or find insects and tree bark etc. But staging....mannn you better sneak some MRE's in somehow boy....tell you what!! Fergettabout "Atkins" LOL! Staging will trim you down "ricky-tick!"


Kellee: You are 100l% right about the legal representation stuff! That coffee burn story got way twisted and made for many good water-cooler and tap-room jokes. But truth be told when stuff happens to you, and you know it wasn't your fault (or stupidity) but legit negligence on someone else's end, then you'll learn to appreciate the legal system we have here in the west, albeit sometimes bloated, and taken to ridiculous extremes, as opposed to the sytems of other countries which borderline on medieval! Sometimes when I hear people railing against this or that re: lawsuits or lawyers, I wonder how they would settle things if we had no legal system at all! Would they simply challenge the McDonalds cashier to a duel???? Or would they simply react with violence or agression...ie "Pay me now or else!!!!"LOL "...or I'll beat you with my BigMac!!! LOL!!!
Yeah, I can see an 81 year-old lady sayin' that! NOT!! If someone handed ME a coffee with no lid through a drive -thru window and it spilled on me, even if it was ice cold, I'd be purdy p.o.'ed! Maybe I would'nt sue, but somebody would be gettin' a free Sham-rock Shake from their boss or me or sumpin'!!!! LOL!! Gives new meaning to "does a shake come wit dem fries"? Or was it "do fries come wit dat shake"??? (LOL) ...one! Can yall say "anger Mgmt."-101 boyz and girlz??!! LOL! (Yet another category to add to the evergrowing list of stress-related buggaboos of modern day fast-paced life.."drive-through rage" yall!) LOL. And Walt said somethin' about not likin' "fingerfood"? LOL...yall remember the finger in the chili at Wendy's yall???? LOL Well...we won't even go there! LOL. Talk about "givin' someone the finger" man.....that's takin' things a little too far! "Finger foods for real!"

Lastly, (well...almost) all this talk about tasty treats that we could really do without....but will take anyway and wolf down gladly...I seem to recall a certain "Joint/Multi Force/Big-Brass/Tails & Tie/Ball (in "USAFE"???) Held somewhere in Belgium(?), at Shape(?) or Brussels(?) Back in '86, where I distinctly recall be extremely hungry (famished! LOL) after a very scary show - before more generals and admirals then I have ever seen in my entire life(!) - where myself and several other drooling bandmembers were standing off to the side of this HUGE Baroque ballroom with chandelliers the size of the Arecebo Radio Telescope Satellite dishes in New Mexico....and were were fixated on this huge layout/feast of food and goodies. So we really didn't and could'nt indulge/partake in the festivities since we were only "the band" LOL....so we each decided to take turns going to the table to taste one of the small finger-food orderves (spelled wrong of course! Scuse my French yall, Nyut, Nyut!). Anyway, I had to be adventurous and try the only thing that looked...shall we say....substancial enough to give me a fix. Turns out, dat da delectible morsal I chose, was none other than COW TONGUE between two pieces of baguette! Yummy right? NOT! You should seen everybody crackin' up at "Baby G" who chose the wrong stuff. Not my fault yall....I never seen no dang COW TOUNGE in this here city before yall!!! LOL! Dang stuff chewier than a bus tire after its been in the microwave for a few hours!!! Shoulda seen my face when I was tryin' ta spit that sucker out (polite like) in fronta all that brass! Classic! Slight of hand like Houdini with a hankerchief. Too much "fun" yall! Hadda been in stagin', I'da swallered that bugger! LOL. Without chewin'!!! So see yall....sometimes it don't pay ta chew before swallerin! LOL! Mooooooooooooo!

P.S I think we need Dr. Laura's legal input into that whole discussion re: frivilous lawsuits, food, stupidity, common sense, personal responsibility and the like. She is going through law school as we speak yall and I'm sure dem lawyers got jokes galore bout that Wendy's chilli finger hoax case! And it was a HOAX yall! Unlike the Mickey D's 5-alarm coffee! Ya never know when one of us might be callin' on Dr. Laura some day fer her services yall! Lawyers..."can't live wit 'em, can't live wit out 'em!" Thank God for pro-bono...thas all I gots ta say! You don't even wanna know what the bill looks like! Just take your cut and hasta la vista baby! Seee ya, wouldn't wanna bee ya! Even for the all dat $$$!

Lastly,...Larry: my newest '06 pet-project soon to be "prior" not-so-youngin' drummin' jedi warrior/apprentice, strivin 'n thrivin' short-timin', countin' the daze til' arrivin' (at staging)...thanks for the FYI on your pal who wrote the new book "Drummin' Bible". Never heard of that cat! Gimmie his e-mail will ya? Always lookin' ta connect with folks out on the cuttin' edge! Gotta stay current yall! Larry, check out the two semi-new books by two of my former private lesson teachers at Berklee one is by Eduardo "Ed" uribe on Latin Percussion Grooves (with a CD), and the other is by Rick Considine....the funkiest white-man I have ever seen in my life (second only to Dr. Steve Gadd) called something like Funk Groves for drummers! Gotta see that guys music library yall! He has every recording that James Brown ever made!!!! Live, studio, or bootleg! And he disects and anylizes them like a micro-biologist studies cells or DNA yall! And he notates the stuff and teaches it to his students. He even notates Vinny's stuff yall! 64th notes for DAZE! Yikes! And he makes that stuff look sooooo easy! Humble pie yall watchin' a guy like that up close! Like a machine....gun! And talk about in the pocket.....yeah....Bernie would approve! Fer shurrrrr dude!

And for all you bass-playin' and bass player lvin' fans out there...I forgot to mention #'s 2,3,and 4 on my fav. All-time favor-flav list:

http://www.level42.com/askmark.asp

And as far as teacher/players go, well this man's resume is kinda hard to beat! He goes waaaaay back to the tonight show band with Ed Shaugnessy and the gang! What a powerful big-band that was. A dying breed! Lotta old-school/heads in THAT band yall! Many of Buddy's (Rich)former members got hired on to the Tonight Show band post (may he rest in peace).

Yoda G out- like the good-'ol days of Big Band walls of sound and killer horny-horn sections! Man dem guys were TIGHTER than a make-shift. modified "stage" in a TIB Korean remote site!!! Watch dem flailin' arms vocaloids! LOL...work dem wrists....economy of motion 'n what not. (LOL) Short 'n choppy. Lefty-Righty, mighty-tighty!

Sorries for hogin' agin yall. All errors and mispellings are my own! The names of the innocent (and still serving) have been changed for their own protection. The comments and/or Blue story above are in now way, shape or form, representative of the opinions, views, or guidelines of the USAF or TIB! The guitly shall remain nameless and all statute of limitations (ie re: fines) are applicable. (I hope) The author neither saw, heard, nor denies any of the above mentioned shananigans.

'06...watch yer toungue!

Posted by: Yoda-Me again! on Wed, Jan 18 at 04:13:20 EST
Toured in: 4got a few links

Sorries yall,

Fergot these here two imporatant links (typed that all in a disjointed kinda way). Fergot to go back and insert these!

http://wmlproxy.google.com/wmltrans/p=w/q=Joel+dibartolo+bass+teacher/s=0/h=en/i=UTF-8/d=1/g=@26site@3Dsearch@26hl@3Den@26lr@3D@26client@3Dnx/u=www.cal.nau.edu@2Fmusic@2Fhtml@2Ffacultypages@2Fdibartolo.htm/c=0

That one's for Joel DiBartolo the best best bass teacher and player I ever me out in LA at the Dick "Grove School of Music" back in the late 80's post AF (where my '86os guitar playin' bud Jim Quinn and his lovely wife (also TIB prior '87os) Allison (Guise) Quinn. Jim told me to go check out Joel and Dave Garibaldi (Tower of Power drummer) who were both teaching there! And I did! Along with Luis Conte.

Also there was a second link on Meister Mark King that I neglected/forgot to post! Here is that one too:

http://www.bassinside.com/2003/january/king.htm

Enjoy yall....good stuff! Good readin'! Much better than cow toungue! Now I know. How dem cows kin chew cudd like that! Yuk! Grosest thing I ever put in my food processor. Nasty 'ol grub! Yuk! LOL Like eatin' raw eel er sumpin'! Slimy 'n wet, 'n cold. gross! (Mumblin' voice of "Boomhauser" from King of the Hill kicks in: "...Dang 'ol cudd chewin'...mumble mumble...dand 'ol oversized stamp-licker....) Laughs!

Yoda G...out like a cow sleepin' on all fours!!! Don't be pushin' 'em over now! We never did dat! "Mooooooo!"

Posted by: Paul on Wed, Jan 18 at 10:54:49 EST
Toured in: 01

JDV, Yes. I agree with you. Those vehicles were beautiful before all those stickers were thrown on there. But I guess they are more Air Force now which is supposed to be the point in the first place. Oh well.

Posted by: Laura on Wed, Jan 18 at 16:18:18 EST
Toured in: 2004

Gerry - jokes...? Yeah, hit me up in 2008 when I've graduated and can look back and laugh! I think, in that respect, law school is a little like tour and childbirth. You have to have some separation in time and space before you can really see what it was.

2005 - You're in the home-stretch now! This can sometimes be the hard part, but SERIOUSLY, in a while (again... after some time and space) it will look beautiful nonethless.

And... BE GOOD TO TAMILYN! I am sure you are, but just wanted to remind you all that she works her butt off behind the scenes to make life good for all of you.

Posted by: marlon on Wed, Jan 18 at 17:31:41 EST
Toured in: 2000

Hello all, I am deeply sorry for not spending more time on the site. Hope all had a great holiday. I am here in monterey and the students at the Defense Language Institute are running me ragged. I am a MTL here. If there are any BLUE Fam in the area let me know. Kalil I will see you in the summer.

Shane TYPE TWOOOOOOOOOs

Auturo I love the BEACHES out here.

Walt whats up man tried to call you a couple of times but got no answer

ED You are a hard man to get ahold of

Dave have you broke you butt lately :-)

Josh i saw you for christman

Will I miss you man where you at

Amber whats up my baby

MS GLO what is up

To all 2000 crew I truely miss you all

Please Holla at me

Posted by: Walter on Thu, Jan 19 at 09:02:53 EST
Toured in: 2001

Greetings Blue Fam...

Marlon... new phone# 210-288-8679, not sure if this is the one you have. If so... may bad.

Just want to drop an update on the wife and baby! Both are on bed rest, and things are going good. Thank you for all of your prayers and please continue. We are not out of the woods yet. We still 3 weeks left till the Dr. say the baby would have a better chance. We got to make it to at least 27 weeks. We are at 23.

Also pray for me, because keeping my wife on bed rest and making sure she isn't doing too much is like having a perfect show on opening night! IT JUST AIN'T GOING TO HAPPEN!

To all the Priors who came out to support me at my last show. Thank you!

Charles... good to see you man! I forgot you were that tall.
Rich... thanks for the support and the encouragement
Ed... good looking out and hope you enjoy the show! You already know how I feel 'bout Ed Jones! Ed who? ED JOWNES!!

Here are the photos I took at the concert
Walt and Will Dowing: http://www.str8silly.com/will_walt.jpg
Walt and Gerald Albright: http://www.str8silly.com/gerald_walt.jpg

Peace
Walt

Posted by: Shane Riley on Thu, Jan 19 at 15:34:02 EST
Toured in: 2000/2001

What's up Blue!

Just stopping by to say hi, and see how everyone is doing.

Becca, I'm sorry to hear of your loss, I love you and my prayers are always with you.

Marlon, get tha KOOOOOOOLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDDDDDDD!

Walt- If you need a babysitter Arturo said he can help out! ha!

JD- get back to work!

Will- miss you bro.

Quez- I found a new note to sing it's called a "C negative" yeeeeeeeaaaaaaaa maaaaaaaaannnnn that's Shane's note! ha!

Ed- You tha man!

Kahlil- I saw the previews to your new movie, I can't wait to see it!

Kellee (Wolverine)- We will always have the shredded paper in Saudi! : ) Classic.

Hos- hows it hangin? Where you at?

Alberto- ;aflkds;fiqpeor;elkjf;ladskjf;la Viva la Mexico! Miss you bro!

Kevin Strongarm- where are you big dog, call me sometime!

Monty and Gary you too!

Where in the world is RYAN ENNIS?????????????????????????????

Vince!!!!!!! DON'T TOUCH MY RIGGING!!

Katie- "We love to teardown!"

Mario- how many degrees do you have now bro? : )

Team Young- if the kids want Disney, then that's what they are going to get! ha!

Monica, Mindy, Gina, Amber, Audrey, April, Becca, Paige, Christina, Kitty, Sarah, Lola, Schavon, Cashina, Natalia and Miss Glo, I love you ladies very much!!!!!!! You ladies were the backbone of the tour, don't forget that!

Everybody be safe out there, call when you can!
Peace,

Shane
813-767-2169

Posted by: Yoda G on Thu, Jan 19 at 16:58:57 EST
Toured in: pre wrap days!

If yall think that AF monster truck "wrap" was a bit hoaky, then check out this link and see what the navy did! I like their designs a lot better! Especially the "trailer design" link at the bottom of the page under the "fourth design".

http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060114-F-2185F-091.jpg

Gerry
Muralist/Graphic Design/Portraitist/Signmaker/TIB Board Beaver! LOL

P.S. I like the Seal rafts and the battleship comin" right out at ya! Cool stuff! I know we got some better graphics people thatn that in the Force! What's with the camper-top? If your gonna have one of those on the truck, then you gotta put some graphics up on that too! Waste of good space!

Posted by: Yoda G (again) on Thu, Jan 19 at 17:05:39 EST
Toured in: Hand_paintd dayz

OPPS!!!!

Wrong link again! Dang this cut 'n paste stuff is for the birds! Here is the Navy link yall! Sorries:

http://www.buswraps.com/projectgallery/navy/usnavyproject.html

Yoda G.....out like the camper tops! Weekend warrior pick-ups! Hah! Nice Tires on the AF Truck though! We could put those on the TIB support Truck. But the as mileage would be reduced.....slightly! LOL! Good for PR though.

Posted by: JD on Thu, Jan 19 at 17:35:07 EST
Toured in: Y2K BABY!!!!

What's up BLUE????

I thought I was pretty much up to speed on what was going on in the BLUE world and then Shane proves me wrong....again!!!!! WHAT PREVIEW???? K'Hill, dude spread the word so's we can all see!!!!

Love Ya BLUE!!!

JD

Posted by: tony on Thu, Jan 19 at 18:19:53 EST
Toured in: 2003

Kerri, i'm sure that peelin' party will happen soon enough. i just hope i'll be around to attend. you never know when you're gonna be deployed.

i never ask for much from anyone, but i'm going through a bit of a rocky area right now, so i need y'alls prayers. if you want to know in more detail, just e-mail me and i'll fill ya in.

tony
2003
Got 'er did

Posted by: Kellee Ryan on Fri, Jan 20 at 10:38:05 EST
Toured in: 95, etc

Shane, I can neither confirm nor deny the existence of any shredded paper. (But it was classic, thanks for making me smile) Miss you!

Posted by: Carmen "Andi" Andrews on Fri, Jan 20 at 11:15:25 EST
Toured in: Soon to be 2006

Good morning All,

I found out last week that I had been selected for TIB 2006, but that because of my assignment, my gaining commander would not release me to go. I was devestated. However, I wanted to see what we could do to work out the problem. My supervisors attempted to work through the MAJCOM Assignment POC and the response came back on Wed afternoon that there was no way that AFPC could help me. I didn't believe it. These are the assignment gurus, someone has to be able to do something!!
So, I called AFPC yesterday. They had the wrong information, so I cleared up their question and put TIB in touch with my assignment officer. I said a lot of prayers and asked a lot of people to pray for me. My heart wanted TIB so badly, but I wanted to be content with whatever decision that God made regarding where I should be and what I should be doing. So, I prayed for acceptance and peace and the ability to do what was God's will.
Well, the decision is in. In less than 24 hours, my orders to Keesler were changed to 2007 and my orders to Shaw extended, and someone else took my assignment to Keesler. So, I was called into our acting commander's office this morning and notified that I would be joining to the TIB 2006 Team!!!
I am absolutely ecstatic and am so looking forward to being a part of this team. :) I can't stop smiling...I've tried!
Thank you Team 4 for the prayers and the support. John, Larry, Bethany, and Shiloh, I look forward to seeing you in 11 days!!
God truly works in amazing ways,
God bless you all,
Andi

Posted by: Mindy Cameron on Fri, Jan 20 at 14:47:49 EST
Toured in: 2000

Yeah, I am well aware that I'm not Kahlil, but I figured that I had more free time than he does. He's in a movie entitled Akeelah and the Bee, which has a release date of April 28, 2006. Coming up quick!! He's in the movie with Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne. That's all I could find out through google. So, Kahlil if any of that is wrong please let us know!I'm so proud of you and all that you do. Can you make just one face for me though? You know, where you bug your eyes out all crazy and stick your tongue out :P Eric and I were just talking about you the other night. He said that you didn't even have to do anything if a joke bombed, except to make one of your classic faces.
Okay, that's it for me. I'm done with school for the weekend!
Love you all,
Mindy

Posted by: JDV (not Jay-Z) on Fri, Jan 20 at 17:39:28 EST
Toured in: 2003

Congratulations Andi! We'll see you in a couple of weeks. God Bless! :)

JDV (not Jay-Z)
TIB 2003
Future TIB 2006

Posted by: Brian Granger on Fri, Jan 20 at 20:07:14 EST
Toured in: Future 2006

Welcome aboard Andi, it's funny how things work out sometimes. I'm here at Keesler now, so which squadron were you supposed to come to?

Posted by: JD on Fri, Jan 20 at 21:16:00 EST
Toured in: 2000

Thanks Mindy for the info!!! As usual, I can always count on you!! Here's the link for the movie trailer. It looks really good.

http://www.akeelahandthebee.com/main.html

Kahlil I'm so very proud of you. Wait til my kids find out!!!! You know the effect you have on them!!!

Andi Andrews!!!! Congrats Ma'am!!!! See you in SA soon!!!!

Love all ya'll out there in BLUE LAND!!!

JD

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry) on Sat, Jan 21 at 07:20:06 EST
Toured in: Area-51 Tour!

Hey yall,

Jest me again. I just got finished listenin' to my favorite show on the radio -Coast to Coast AM (been an Art Bell/Dream Land/C2C fan since ohhhh...back in 94!) And mighty proud of it! LOL!

So anyways, I was just kinda wonderin'- and have been meanin' to ask this question(s) on the board for a very loooooooong time.....do we have any priors or currently touring TIB members who listen to Coast to Coast AM with George Nory or to Art Bell on the weekends????? For those who may not know anything about what I'm talking about....its and overnight radio program that deals with.....shall we say....seldom discussed mysterious matters and unexplained phenomena. To put it mildly! LOL! Here is their website for those unfamiliar (uninitiated) with this talk program:

http://www.coasttocoastam.com/

I was also kinda sorta wonderin' - since we ARE all Air Force, and since the AF is constantly mentioned on this radio program - if TIB has ever done a show at the famous "Area-51"??? LOL! I'm serious yall!!!! Its a hanger right??? I mean, even Black- Ops. people need some entertainin' once in a while too! Right? And what about the greys??? They'd love TIB I'm sure!:

Luv U ALL more than Peptol Bismol! LOL!

Yoda G....out like 'ol Big Foot when "Bugs" grabbed his Reminton 130 and started "huntin'"!


P.S.:

http://www.cowboylyrics.com/lyrics/byrds/mr-spaceman-12195.html

Posted by: Yoda G (C2C Junkie!) on Sat, Jan 21 at 07:32:10 EST
Toured in: Crop circle tour

Oh yeah....almost forgot yall....

For those who knew of her (and even those who never did) remember to say a prayer for Ramona Bell (Art's wife and muse/sidekick) who recently passed away in her sleep suddenly from an asthema attack last week! She was a real sweetie, and a big contributer to the radio show! Poor lady! Rest in peace Ramona Bell! You were too young and too good to leave us so unexpectedly and so soon!

Posted by: Michael "manfred" Manfredonia on Sat, Jan 21 at 09:22:57 EST
Toured in: 2004

So here I am, stuck at Tokyo (Narita) Int. Airport overnight because Korean Airlines screwed up and wouldn't admit it. They knew approx. 4 hours ago(6PM local) that they were going to cancel their flights from here to Seoul, but didn't tell anyone until 8:30PM which, by the time I got back out through customs, made me miss the last train back to Jamie's house. So, now I'm here with my double cheeseburger and linolium floor. Anyway, the main reason I'm posting today was to let everyone know: If you're booking a flight over to SE Asia, DO NOT book with Korean Airlines. They're the cheapest for a reason. Well, I hope nobody else falls into the same trap I did.

Much Love,
Manfred

Posted by: Darryl McEachin on Sat, Jan 21 at 10:45:21 EST
Toured in: '92, '03

Hello all,

La-Kee, plz give me a call. Lost my cell with all my numbers.

Jim W, do you still need the DVD? Give me a ring (see above).

Love ya,
(the other brotha) DarrylM

Posted by: TEAM YOUNG on Sat, Jan 21 at 11:10:06 EST
Toured in: 2000

Shane-

Thanks for making me remember my Crescendo roots. You are right, if the kids want Disney, they got it! If they want Arturo playing his sax when the generator fails, they got it! If they want Ed yelling at us because Arturo is playing his sax when it should only be a prop or decoration, you got it!

TEAM TIB 2000! I hope you all remember the impact damage talk Mike W. gave us! When ever I think of that talk I get re-motivated!

Mike Young

Posted by: Prior on Sun, Jan 22 at 08:02:50 EST

Good Morning: I want to send a couple birthday announcements. Naybu 24 Jan & Miss Lorna 28 Jan. I hope you two have a great time on your special day

Posted by: Breona Rancher on Sun, Jan 22 at 10:50:30 EST
Toured in: 2006 Selectee

Speaking of Miss Lorna, does anyone happen to have her email address?? I have been looking for it and I can't seem to find it... Thank you all in advance!!

Breona

Posted by: Chris Burch on Sun, Jan 22 at 23:16:11 EST
Toured in: 1998

I have updated the priors listings for everyone that has sent in a request in the past few months. If anyone see in accurate info, please let me know and I'll fix it as soon as I can.

Chris

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry) on Mon, Jan 23 at 02:33:45 EST

GO STEELERS! PA in the house...again!

Gotta love it! Sorries Denver! Steel is harder than rocky mountains. When you work hard and think big, ne1 can move mountains!

Lookout Seatle! Hammer time ! Gotta forge ahead yall! Aim high! THREE on the road in a row???? Boyz got HEART! Nerves of steel!!! Lol!

Yoda G! Bring on dem Seagulls! (Sic) Lol!

Luv yall! Wish PA the best yall....we needed this lift after the T.O debacle (fiasco)! Right? By hook or by steel! To my Eagles....take a few lessons from the coach and the Defense! Its all about the team, not greedy the star athletes! Talent notwithstanding. Judge not the sum of the parts, but by the lion in their hearts! Gotta want it Baaaaad yall! May the best TEAM emerge victorius! The the BIG game begin! Wooooooweeee! They errrrrrrrned it yall! Fight for your right ta paaaaartay! Yippie!

Eagles....next year yall! We can rebiuld them! Gotta regroup and recoup! No mo T.O.! Philly's not a one-man show!

Yoda G....out like the "Orange crush" (slush!) Neeeeext! Lol!

P.S.
Breona, if you get and answer, lemmie know, will ya! Me and moma Lorna go way back! Dats one hard-workin' dedicated and selfless dame (woman). Have not gotten an e-mail from her in years! Hope she's doin' well! Anybody got the intel gimmie a yell!
Sorries for hogin' yall... how much is da fine? Buck a word? No problemo! Checks inda mail!

Posted by: Kahlil on Mon, Jan 23 at 05:11:29 EST
Toured in: 94,95

Thanks for all the well wishes on the movie. Please go and support it and hopefully one day I'll get to share the story behind getting the movie made. That's the 'real' movie and believe me its comparable to many stories we have from the road. The writer/director saw the 2003 (DMC's tour?) show. He even interviewed some of you, you may remember him.

Mindy, Eric good to see you are doing well! Shane, keep doin it man. I'm proud of you dawg. Marlon, Arturo, Gregg keep checkin your mail. It takes a while sending things across the pond.

I'm still on tour and I'll be posting some US show dates as soon as I get them. Gotta get back to the grind. To all the TIB family, thanks for being so understanding about my delays in getting back to you. Don't take it personal, I may not be on tour with TIB anymore but a brotha puts in some long hours. Big dreams require big actions, and I can't get there by playing it safe and being 'comfortable cuz I got bills'. Lets do this or stop talkin about it, ya know?

Walt, Naybu, I pray for yall every day. Thanks for the inspiration. Mr. Jones, you already know.

Making It Happen

Posted by: teiga on Mon, Jan 23 at 08:59:42 EST
Toured in: 95

Carmen,

Good to hear of your good fortune.
Good luck at staging.

Posted by: YO-da G (AKA: Gerry on Mon, Jan 23 at 20:25:42 EST
Toured in: Superbowl XXXIX

Thanks Breona! I'm also waiting now to hear back!

Yoda G

Posted by: Katie Badowski on Mon, Jan 23 at 23:42:06 EST

Hello My Friends,
Well, I don't usually ask for anything but today I need some prayers if you can spare them. I lost a close family friend today and would like to ask you to pray for my family and for his. His name was Richard Kohse, a WWII veteran, a big guy with a big heart. He was like a grandfather to me, so please if you have time just add another prayer. I could use an extra one too. Thanks,
Katie B.

Posted by: Breona Rancher on Tue, Jan 24 at 08:44:28 EST
Toured in: 2006 Selectee

Yoda G, you are more than welcome!! Katie, my dear, I will keep you, your family and his in my prayers. If you need to talk, I am here for you.

2006 selectees, the time is drawing near and I am so overwhelmed with excitement to see you all and start the "nitty-gritty" of staging and touring. I hope you all are able to make a smooth transition from your bases and have safe flights to Lackland. See you all in 6 days...

Much love

Breona

Posted by: Spencer on Tue, Jan 24 at 10:58:36 EST
Toured in: 2001

Happy Birthday Naybu and an early Happy Birthday to Mrs. Lorna!!!

Posted by: Shane Riley on Tue, Jan 24 at 14:15:08 EST
Toured in: 2000/2001

Thank you for the laugh TEAM YOUNG!! Arturo's sax solo efforts when the geni was down is almost as funny as Josue "THE TROMBONE SLAYER" Gusman knocking out 2 trombone's in one day! ha! Arturo said Berni took out a brand new horn fresh out the box, gave it to Guzman and as he walked back up the steps he tripped and kaaaannnkkkkk bent the damn thing all up, ha!!!! I laughed so hard I think I cried! He said Berni just walked away shaking his head. I would have paid money to see that. (smile)

Kellee, whenever I need a good memory I sit back and think about that day. I miss you too!

Be good out there blue!

Shane
813-767-2169

Posted by: Dave Davis on Tue, Jan 24 at 21:57:08 EST
Toured in: 2000

Happy Birthday Naybu! Happy Birthday Lorna! God's blessings to you both!

Marlon: The proper term is coccyx as in "I owe you a swift kick in the coccyx!" and mine is crooked as a dog's hind leg, but can't complain. Thanks for asking! Look out Air Force, Marlon's an MTL!

Kahlil:Congrats! Couldn't happen to a better guy(or more deserving), and as for "not being on tour", you might not be, but your footprints are on every stage at every base.
Keep believing!

Lots O' Blue Love,
Dave

Posted by: Naybu on Tue, Jan 24 at 23:07:10 EST
Toured in: '93

Hello everybody. Thanks for all the birthday wishes, Dave, Spence, Huey, and uuuuuhhhhhmmmm, "Prior" (Hi Glo!)!! I truly appreciate it. Let me let all you "young" folks out there. One thing I tell everybody I meet now (ask '04 they'll tell you), FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS. Don't do like me, and wait until you're 34 to try and follow your heart. Life is too short. There is way too much talent in this program for it to just be a small minority who "make it". Many of you have what it takes; the only thing holding you back is this nasty little word called.....wait, are you ready??......FEAR! If you can face TIB staging. You can face anything in this entertainment world. Ain't nothin' like it!

To a couple of priors out here trying to do it, or should I say DOING IT. Kahlil, I am SSSSSOOOOO proud of you, bro. I remember you when. You are the inspiration for many of us who want to take this to the next level. Walteezy, please keep doing your thing-eezy!!! Fa-reezy!!! LOL!!! My pastor (Bishop Long) has been preaching about this open door that God has set before us. Your door is open. Time to walk in, bro.

Please, please, please, to all of you who want to do this, keep pushing. Don't take no. When somebody says no, find somebody who will say yes. I'm outta here! Blue Love to everybody!

As always,
Glo, Jeri, and the entire AFE Staff--I love you guys!
Mr. & Mrs. E--I miss you guys and will always love you!
Right-Reverend-Bishop-Prelate-Apostle-Prophet-Pastor-Minister-Elder and whatever other titles you can think of.....Edward Lee Jones--There is a lot tied up in you that God has yet to show you. It's time to see Him from a different perspective. A different angle, if you will. There is more, Ed! There is more!!! It ain't over!!! Love you, bro!

Naybu

Posted by: Naybu on Tue, Jan 24 at 23:11:09 EST
Toured in: '93

P.S.
I'm sorry. Kahlil, clean them daggon drawers, man!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! It's an inside joke y'all, sorry.

Posted by: David Eaton on Tue, Jan 24 at 23:28:00 EST
Toured in: 93

Been way too long since I posted on here. I truly miss everyone I toured with and seeing Naybu's name brought back some funny memories (Pillow head?)

I have been way too busy with my life and lost contact with too many people over the years. I have not even seen a show in years. Very sad!

Posted by: Bill Middleswart on Wed, Jan 25 at 01:44:25 EST
Toured in: Current Cast

Ian - I have some finance questions from the team. Can you please send me an e-mail explaining the procedures for claiming our combat-zone tax exemption. Do we need to file for it before we file our taxes? Is there a special form to fill out? Does the no-pay travel voucher cover it? Will it affect our tax returns that are due in April?

Thanx for any help.

--Bill

Posted by: Eric Gillespie on Wed, Jan 25 at 06:24:43 EST
Toured in: 2002

TIB 2005,

When you get off of tour make sure you have you No-Pay travel voucher with you. Go to FM and claim you hostile fire pay, combat pay and tax exemption for the months that you were in the AOR. After that you will get a new W-2 on My Pay hopefully before the tax time. If not file you taxes with you current W-2. When you get an amended W-2 (on My Pay) you will file a 1040X and then you will get a check for the amount you deserve. Go to www.irs.gov for the form and instuctions

Later,
Eric G
Al Udeid AB, Qutar .....yep i am deployed !!!

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry) on Wed, Jan 25 at 07:50:12 EST
Toured in: Couple a few

Dave Eaton '03,

Howdy Blue bro! Don't feel bad or get down on yourself man! I understand totally! The '04 show was the first I've seen in 17 years!!! So talk about bein' outta touch and feelin' a lil guilty...I feel ya! Time flys and we all move on to other things (not necessarily "bigger and better" things than the Blue, cause I honestly don't think any exist!!!! For REAL yall!). Kids, bills, multiple jobs, stress, etc. All possible - but still lame - excuses to not keep in touch with your Blue brothers and sisters. But we've all been there or may be there.

However, with the ease of communications these days on the web, (WE did'nt have this nifty tool back in the day....there really is no good excuse to not stay in touch other than perhaps if one technologically challenged and has some phobia or aversion to computers and the internet! That excuse I can accept as well. But then again, if my man Mr. T.A. Burroughs can come out of the woodwork (like he did in a big way above)...sportin' not one...mind you....but TWO mega-flashy websites.....then heck yall all them old heads who never post have just lost their only credible excuse! Guess T.A. proved that you are never too old to learn and adapt and keep up with the ever-changing lanscape! I mean, he's a real pro at what he does as an entertainer, so he really does have a built in reason to be all websited-up. LOL if I was doing gigs like him and Walteezy, and Kalil, 'n Naybu, then I sure as heck would have the best site that money can buy. Its an investment in your career yall!

Now before anyone gets the crazy idea that I'm sellin' somethin' and am gettin' ready to drop the marketing bomb sales pitch for web-design services.....I'm not! BUT....I would like to know how much all that flash costed T.A. and who it was that hooked him up like that! I'm sure many of us would love to have a sight like that but perhaps think its way out of our reach. So T.A., if you're listening' (er..readin' this) would you mind lettin' us know what the price range for a cool set-up like that would run any of us? Thanks! And anyone else out there in Blueland who might know or be doing this kind of stuff, could you please share some of your wisdom with us! We'd love to know! Specially the youngins! But some of us not so fameous oldins are a might interested too!

Anyway, I digress....Dave, welcome back to the fold! Dive in make up for lost time. Share with us what you have been doing since '93! I for one would like to know.

Thas all fer now....I reckon. Oh yeah, Happy Barfday uhhh....I mean Birfday!!!....yeah that's it...to Miss Lorna and to Naybu too! Nice lil pepp-talk there Naybu! Man who taught you that??? You been watchin' them Tony Robbins tapes man???? Oh...I know, must be church! Whatevuh it is, it sounded like good advice to me! Lead, follow, or watch life pass you by! Right? I know you all are born leaders cause I can feel the vibe from your posts....even though I never met yall or toured wit yall! I kin just tell! Good for you! Keep up that Blue spirit yo! Never stop reachin' 'n strivin'. You just never know who you are influencing with words of wisdom like that! Some day when you're old 'n grey, somebody might walk up to you and say...."Is your name Naybu? You know a loooong time ago I saw a message you posted on the TIB bulletin board and it really woke me up andinspired me! It motivated me and made me kick start my life and career into high-gear!"

Now would'nt that be just the biggest thrill and honor! Magine how Bernie 'n Chief, 'n. Ed 'n Barry, 'n Percy must feel after havin' babysat all a us "bubbleheads" strawclimbers out hear trying to make our way in the world (jungle)!!! Gotta be a mighty good feelin'!

Yoda G out.....like my Blackberry if RIM don't pony-up and settle the case (again!) LOL!

Posted by: Ian on Wed, Jan 25 at 08:05:22 EST
Toured in: 02

Yea...what he said. But it should be a 1040c (C being corrected 1040). You might have a really hard time getting CZTE/HDIP and HFP being that you are on permissive orders...even though you do the same thing the band does when they deploy, for some reason you guys are volunteering to go to the desert. But hope yall get it!

Posted by: Eric G on Wed, Jan 25 at 08:17:59 EST

Posted by: Eric G on Wed, Jan 25 at 08:20:46 EST
Toured in: 2002

Ian- it's a 1040X because you are kind of doing your 1040 all over again with some changes you did not expect. That is what i did for my 2002 return :P

But if you want to listen to a guy who plays a wind controller go ahead....lol

Posted by: Matt Dechant on Wed, Jan 25 at 12:25:27 EST
Toured in: 2004

Well... I'm officially on Terminal leave. It's kinda surreal.

I'm gonna be heading home to pa the end of this week (geat ready Yoda G/Baby G/The G meister/The G-inator/Mr. G) Which is really cool, because I'll be in the area in time to catch 05 when they go to McGuire in March.

If anyone else is back in the Philly area look me up.

Erin, I'm coming to visit you when you least expect it!! (is 2 weeks ok with you?)

Posted by: Larry on Wed, Jan 25 at 13:03:23 EST
Toured in: Staging - 6 days

Did anyone watch American Idol last night? If anyone did and saw the Staff Sergeant who actually sang and DANCED with Paula Abdul while singing "Let's Get It On" - my wife and I were both wondering - is he a prior by any chance? And please don't ask me what his name was because, honestly, I don't remember. But he did impress Simon, Randy and Paula and has made it to Hollywood.
This is my last day of work before I head off to staging! Woo-hoo! Hope to hear from y'all after I get there and can't wait to see most of you again!

Posted by: courtney on Wed, Jan 25 at 13:12:44 EST
Toured in: 03 & 04

Here's him in an article from msnbc


Steven David Jr. flirted and danced with Paula, got the votes he needed, picked Paula up and walked to the door … then went outside to share the news with his wife.

"Do not do that again! You're a married man! I do not feel right about that!" Paula said.

Of course, David's day job is loading bombs, rockets and missiles onto F-16s for the U.S. Air National Guard, so Paula should probably get over it before a stray missile winds up taking out her car.

Posted by: Erin on Wed, Jan 25 at 14:13:59 EST
Toured in: 2004

GO Air National Guard!!! Whoo hoo! Good for him.

Since being off tour nothing i've done has been able to challenge me as much as Tops In Blue did. Since tour I've been trying to find something that will inspire motivation and drive. Something to get my mind and body going again. And I think I finally found something!

Sooo...this March I will be participating in the Bataan Memorial Death March. It is held at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. (Courtney are you close to that???) It is a 26.2 mile course that takes you through the desert. It is done in honor of the World War II veterans that were surrendered to Japanese forces and forced to march through the Philippine jungles. Members from my guard unit have gone in the past and have won the team competion 2 years in a row!
I just wanted to pass this information along because I think it is a great experience and it is for a great cause and any military or civilian member can participate! It is however, done at your own expense but if you're a military member you could get permissive TDY orders so you won't have to take leave. Here is the website if you wanna check it out: http://www.bataanmarch.com/Marcher%20Information.htm or you can contact me as well. :)

Love,
Erin
04'

Posted by: Erin on Wed, Jan 25 at 14:15:33 EST
Toured in: 2004

If anything at least look up the history!! It is an amazing story!!

Posted by: nolan on Wed, Jan 25 at 18:22:30 EST
Toured in: 2006 staging!

I saw the SSgt to!! Does anyone know if he was a prior? he was good. It was pretty cool. he was like " Paula, if you think I'm good you have to come dance with me." so she's like "it looks like I have to go dance." lol. I hope he makes it all the way.

I'm counting down the days till staging. I'm already on leave sayin bye to my familyand taking this time to go though the DVD's and practice... practice practice. I can't wait to get started. But I will admit that I'm alittle nervous. we have some big shoes to fill but we WILL NOT LET you down. We will only make you proud to call us family once we are though!!!

2006 sax player

Posted by: JD on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:10:17 EST
Toured in: Y2K

What's up FAMILY!!!!

Either my eyes are playing tricks on me or I just saw a clip of John Williams, TIB 99, on American Idol. It was just before the commercial break so now I want more!!!!!

Love Ya BLUE and congrats John on making it in front of the main "judges".

JD

Posted by: Laura on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:25:04 EST
Toured in: 2004

Just saw the same thing! CONGRATS John!!

Posted by: JD on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:25:53 EST
Toured in: Y2K

JOHN WILLIAMS GOIN' TO HOLLYWOOD BABY!!!! Congrats John!!!!

TIB in DA HOUSE!!!!

JD

Posted by: Ryan "Alien" Soens on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:26:25 EST
Toured in: 2003

Did anyone else see American Idol tohignt?!?!?!?!
Let me just say.....


John Williams, YOU GO BOY!!!!!!!!

Wit your bad self...

Later
Alien

Posted by: JAG on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:36:34 EST
Toured in: Magic 95 FM

Best wishes in Hollywood John.
Best of luck with your shows Benny. Sorry I couldn't make it.
Happy belated B-day Naybu and happy upcoming Birthday Lorna.

JAG

Posted by: David Eaton on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:41:38 EST
Toured in: 50th Anniv - 93

Got out of the AF in 1998 after 5 years with CENTCOM. Been a contractor for the AF ever since. I am now working for SOCCENT in support of our efforts in Iraq. I did not see any shows because for several years I was down in Miami working for SOUTHCOM...too far out of the fold.

I have beautiful twin 5 YO girls and a gorgeous 3 YO girl. Life has been very kind to me.

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry et. al) on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:43:06 EST
Toured in: '86&7 A.D.

Matt,

You short-timin' woodshedder you! Did I hear right? Your headed my way? Coool! Just in time for the snow that we are looooong overdue for! Laughs! This has to be the absolute weirdest and warmest winter I can remember in my entire life! I'm so busy with jobs this winter that it feels like the summer never ended! Bitter sweet! $ yes! But time to relax and enjoy it....NO! My point is, I should be hibernating in a cave by now! But so many people need outdoor stuff done that its like June again for me! Talk about surreal Matt!

Anyway, we will get together and hang out, you know that! By the way Matt, did you know that Larry's ('06) great-uncle was none other than GENE KRUPA!!!!!.....of Benny Goodman and "Sing, Sing, Sing" fame? Yeah, its true! He told me rrecently about it! And his living uncle has inherited the very drumset used in the famous drum battle on Verve Records between Krupa and Buddy Rich! I kid you not! E-mail him and ask him if you don't believe me! I had that album and many others like it about 8years ago, before donated my entire rare jazz collection to a charitable cause.

Anyway, Tops in Blue '06, consider yourselves shall we say.......special to have some drum royalty up there backing you guys and gals up this year! LOL!

Of course, this should not stop Mr. Best and Mr. Edwards from ridin' his "bleep" all through staging!!!! Laughs! Giddie up horsie!!!! LOL! Make him work for that ring gentleman! Big shoes to fill if he's Gene's blood! That guy came up in the mean streets of Chicago methinks! Back in da day when Davy Tough, and Chick Webb, 'n Max Roach 'n Baby Dodds were doin' their thang! '06, now yall got some ammo fer nick-names 'n inside jokes. Go easy on him though, he also from PA. That's like 4 "rhythmacons" I've counted recently from up here round my parts. Must be somethin' in da water!

Hebee Gebee out...like Matt when his college application was accepted! Go bro! Don't look back. Unless its towards TIB! LOL! Nevuh fegit your ROOTS! What's the name of that funky Beatie Boyz song that I luv soooo much....???? Oh yeah, "Root Down"!

P.S.
Errrrrrrrrin, that walk/benefit sounds cool! I do know quite a bit about that Death March! I only watched that documentary like 5 times!!! Amazing rescue operation that was. Very daring and highly risky!

That unit which went in and took that camp by surprise, was actually the FIRST "Special Forces" unit - if I recall correctly - ever assembled officially in U.S. History. At least it was the first Ranger unit! That much I do know! I'm an expert on the Rangers and the Special Forces stuff. All my instructors at Camp Bullis TX were Air Force Rangers! True! Serious bunch of guys! Crazy too! Rode us hard in the woods! TIB staging brought back all those memories when I had ta fly back to Lackland (twice!) Met up with some of my old friends there too! Be ready for that '06! You never know who you're gonna pass on the street goin' to and from the theatre! LOL. Better walk at attention just to be safe! LOL!

Posted by: Lola Ross on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:45:03 EST
Toured in: '00

Yes, I too thought my eyes were playing tricks on me, but that was John tonight on AI and he's off to HOLLYWOOD!

Congrats John! Represent TIB well!

When you make it, I can honestly say: I knew John back when.....

As for the ANG SSgt, I don't recall seeing him at any of my WW's, but he should've been.

Go Blue! (TIB and AF blue)
Lola

Posted by: Spencer on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:47:02 EST
Toured in: 2001

Congrats John! Didn't see the show due to heat trying to get the Production Center ready for staging!!

Posted by: ChiQuita Frazier on Wed, Jan 25 at 20:58:17 EST
Toured in: 1999

I was flipping through the channels on the TV and I started yelling to my husband "John is on American Idol!!" I'm so proud of you John. I'm telling everyone that I know that I cussed you out in Bosnia for all of your powder and for throwing your wardrobe on top of mine!!!! Congrats John and represent TIB!!!

Posted by: Patrick Crockett on Wed, Jan 25 at 21:26:57 EST
Toured in: 99

You go John, Good Luck in Hollywood!!

Posted by: Kerry (for Mike Egan) on Wed, Jan 25 at 21:27:17 EST
Toured in: 1953

Hi, my dad is Ret. Major James "Mike" Egan & he told me to watch out for John Williams on American Idol. Just want to let everyone know...John was on tonight--he's "goin' to Hollywood, baby"!!!

Posted by: Kerry on Wed, Jan 25 at 21:29:49 EST

Oops, guess that's old news by now. =o)

Posted by: James Rollins on Wed, Jan 25 at 22:04:42 EST
Toured in: 1999

I can't believe it! Good going, John! I got home and Laura asked me, "didn't you tour with that guy?" I knew right away it was John. Cool!!

Posted by: Erin Markus on Wed, Jan 25 at 22:13:34 EST
Toured in: WWTC 03 Staff

John Williams!!!! My boy from Beale....I am so proud of you!!! I live in Idaho now and have no idea how to reach you......you just gotta e-mail me! erinski1202@yahoo.com. I am sitting here with the flu and jumped up when I saw you on TV and got real dizzy and had lie down again! I called everyone back at Beale and told them to watch since I am an hour ahead....way to go!
Hello to the rest of TIB! I miss seeing you all now that I am not the CC director at Beale anymore. The team is here tomorrow night, but I am gonna miss the show cuz I'm sick. :(
Keep going strong TIB!
Love, Erin

Posted by: Gerald "Mac" McMillian on Wed, Jan 25 at 22:21:56 EST
Toured in: 88ss,89ss

Way ta go John, Way ta go BLUE

Mac "the driver"

Posted by: David Eaton on Wed, Jan 25 at 23:07:56 EST
Toured in: 93

If anyone from 1993 is reading this and happens to have a tour schedule from 1993, could you possibly send it to eaton.david@gmail.com?

thanks

Posted by: Yoda G (helpful board-beaver) on Wed, Jan 25 at 23:30:15 EST
Toured in: Blue Idol tour!

Hey yall,

Don't this cat SSgt. Williams, and I don't watch TV too much.....(Except for The Simpsons) but I DID find this little piece for all of you Blue AI fans/groupies! LOL! Check it out (scroll down to page 11):

http://72.14.203.104/search?q=cache:hdMbVpQIM-gJ:uploads.theunion.com/highflyer/2005/HF_20050826.pdf+American+Idol+john+williams+Beale+Air+force+base+&hl=en&gl=ca&ct=clnk&cd=1&ie=UTF-8

And since I was just talkin' about not fergettin' ur "Roots" 'n what not (see above), notice what Seargeant Williams has to say about that! And about being humble too! Must be that "church" in 'em yall! A real share-croppers son! Like. the Lee Greenwood song.

Even though I don't value the taste or judgement of this show too much, they gotta be doin' somethin' right if they are finally gettin' around to pickin' some of our prior peeps! I know that many among us priors have tried in vain to reach that AI goal in the past, and have come away disappointed! Why, I know not, as TIB is a much loftier goal to aspire to in my opinion! Since that's more team oriented! But, nevertheless, "far be it from me" as Antoine Wilson - the TIB bow-legged comedian used to say - to rain on ne1s parade! I'm happy for any of us who continues to achieve and "represent" If one of us wins, we all win! Sinbad, Khalil, T.A., Walt, Naybu, et al! Get some yall!

As for this Sgt. Williams....although I reluctant to buy into that whole AI craze and hype,....I'm still "ROOTin'" 4 him! Cause he's one of us! And therefore he ALREADY earned his just rewards (twice) on tour. But this can only serve to add to his warchest of hardwon honors! Yet another feather in his cap, as it were. Reaping the TIB harvest and the gospel roots almighty harvest as well. Nice that he mentioned that! All yall choir prior (rhyme!) peeps know what I'm talkin' about!

So you see TIB '06,'07...and beyond... if you do manage to make it through, TIB is the best gift that just keeps on givin' long after your final banquets! Member dat hear! It does open doors! But like bro Naybu and Khalil said, you can't rest on your "bleep" (laurels) once you get off tour! You gotta view that as only a stepping stone to other things in life! And in many ways, the whole tour is like one BIG staging! Least that's how I viewed it! Cept you gotta pay a small fine for every mistake you make on OUR tours! Out here in the civie entertainment jungle, the fine you pay could be your entire career! Lot more at stake once you strike out on your own! Hear? No big bruthas 'n sista's to pick up yer slack! Gotta start from scratch every single day! Yal know the saying and the song by the same name:"What have you done for me lately" . I forgot who sang that! Whitney??? Chaka??? Somebody help me! LOL!

Anyway I'm ROOTin' for the AI Sarge! Go bro! Get it done! Its good PR for the program too! And it gives us a presence, so future competitirs on that show will have someone to talk to about that!

Whoever knows this guy, may want to contact him for us and ask him to post about it and share the experience! I've heard good and bad about the selection process up there! Remember, its ratings based yall! Not purely based on talent or attitude, or character like TIB is. Its all about the ratings and the audience response! So don't be too disappointed if the brothuh gets edged out by some buxom bombshell who is an overnight success! Flash-in+the-pan type. Just tryin' to prepare yall. Much has already been said in years past about this show on this board to support my opinion. I REALLY, REALLY HOPE he wins!! But I don't want a one of yall to be heartbroken or disappointed. If he doesn't, cause he already proved his worth in TIB! And no one can take that away from any of us! Amen? Mmmmmmhmmm!

Yoda G.....out like that Chinese dude with the wooden face and voice from hell!!!! LOL. Gong show spin-off at times! How HE even made it up there to begin with, says something about their "audition" process! Remember yall......ratings!

Posted by: Robert Calmes on Wed, Jan 25 at 23:34:48 EST
Toured in: 97

YEA JOHN! My wife looked at me like I was crazy! I was screaming, "I know that guy!" Simon tried to keep you out but Paula and Randy got you through. I know you will dazzle them as the competition goes on. You are a great entertainer. You got my vote brother! Get-R-Done!!

Posted by: Rachel "BAMA" on Thu, Jan 26 at 01:12:30 EST

Big shout out to JOHN WILLIAMS..On Idol..doing your thang!!! Much Love to ya!!!

Posted by: Yoda G (AKA: Gerry) on Thu, Jan 26 at 01:51:30 EST
Toured in: Payin' dues tour

Oh yeah yall,

Almost forgot......case in point on these links re: AI, character, payin' dues, humility, and work ethic:

http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/0119061idol1.html?link=rssfeed

....and even more of the story here:

http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1521355/20060123/index.jhtml?headlines=true

....and this was apparently NOT an isolated incident due to any sudden star-syndrome dillusions of grandeur either....:

http://www.chartattack.com/damn/2006/01/2005.cfm

So, you see Blue...the moral os the story is that fast cars, fast women (groupies), drugs, alchohol, and other material trappings of so-called "success" are not the end all-be all of being an entertainer! And it matters not that Mick Jagger & Co. or Elvis did it! That doesn't make it right! If you want those things, you have to WORK HARD for them and Errrrrrrrn them! All that glitters is not always gold! And all that "Bling" nonsense....well....its just that....material unimportant nonsense. It should not be the goal, in my humble opinion! That kind of selfish self-centered hedonistic thinking just leads to trouble. It always does! Look at my man Dr. "Cos" (philly boy/man) yall!) and comparer that to a Mike Tyson! Both talented yes, but one a wreckless spendthrift, and the other a humble intelligent, educated, worldly gentleman.

So '06 read and heed this:

"Work thou for pleasure...paint or sing, or carve...the thing thou lovest most...though the body STARVE. They who work for glory, miss oft the goal...and they who work solely for money, coin their very souls! So work then for work's sake, and soon it may very well be, that although the road is long and hard, all these things may be added unto thee!" [but there is no guarantee, nor should you expect there to be!]

And healthy, wealthy, and wise you shall surely be....if you listen to and heed big brother AKA: "Yoda G!" LOL! But then again, what do I know?...I'm just an urban hillbilly near-do-well drummer and Boardbeaver! LOL. Just my opinion/advice yall!

Yoda G out...like that whole "Bling" thing! LOL!

Posted by: Eric G on Thu, Jan 26 at 02:12:22 EST
Toured in: 2002

From MSNBC.com

John Williams came to the auditions fresh off nine years in the Air Force. He started with an impressive rendition of "Human Nature," then abruptly segued into a freestyle dance routine.

Maybe he didn't get to see the show while in uniform, and didn't realize that the next time the judges ask to see a dance routine for anything other than comic value will be the first. Still, Willliams made it through on a 2-1 vote, the two American judges patriotically overcoming the objections of the Brit.

Posted by: walt on Thu, Jan 26 at 02:44:30 EST
Toured in: 2001

Much Respect John!

'bout time somebody did Michael and there is nobody better I can think of than you!

You got my vote!

Walt

Posted by: Gerald.Mcmillian on Thu, Jan 26 at 10:59:52 EST
Toured in: 88ss, 89ss

Great job John, the best to you in the coming weeks.

Walt, hate to start a debate, John is very good, but check out Daryl Harris "Bad" performance from the 88 Imagination Tour. Just my opinion, you still the man

Posted by: Errrrnnnnnn on Thu, Jan 26 at 11:10:59 EST
Toured in: 2004

Good luck John!!! Wishin I was in your shoes!

Posted by: Paul on Thu, Jan 26 at 11:17:30 EST
Toured in: 01

It was cool seeing someone we know featured on that show. Does anyone know how many priors have given the show a shot? I would love to see more priors doing American Idol.

Posted by: Naybu on Thu, Jan 26 at 11:42:49 EST
Toured in: '93

Go John Williams!!!! I missed the actual show, but when I turned on my computer (AOL), whose face do I see?????? YOU!!!!!!! Do yo thang, man!!! So, proud of you, bro.

A big name I forgot in my last post who is definitely doing his thing (thanks Baby-G), T.A. Burrows!!!! You are the godfather!!! Thank you for everything you've done for this program. You've touched many, and it ain't over. Love you!!!

Worldwide 1 (Ed, Lane, and Daryl H.), I happened to put the DVD in from 2004 Worldwide, and man, it brought back so many memories. Miss performing with you guys.

Dave Eaton---Hi Honey!!! LOL!!! Talk about memories, you were a fool on tour. I'll look to see if I have an extra schedule. I know I have one, but it's nice and split up and in my photo album. I'll let you know. Good seeing you out on the board.

God Bless!

Naybu

Posted by: Kristin on Thu, Jan 26 at 11:46:27 EST
Toured in: 2002

Even though I do not know John from 99' I would like to say congrat's. If by some chance john reads this board, please note that you made it too Hollywood with my friend Brian. You guys both tried out in San Fran together so I don't know if you already met him, but we danced at the same dance studio together in Clearance NY. He is so super awesome so I hope you get to know him.
Good luck!

Also. Angie Long - I love your guts!
Kristin

Posted by: johnnboy on Thu, Jan 26 at 12:03:50 EST

TIB- Thank you for your support. Remember that it's a television show and that words and performances are edited. It's all about what type of hype you can sell. They do love drama. Don't fret I retain my bearing and self respect (like a blue brotha). Remember to keep the dream alive! I will be performing and taping a prerecorded show for "It's Showtime at the Apollo" on 24 Feb 06 in NY. So, pray for me. I will ask Sinbad the ultimate TIB question.

- Regardless of the past we should all focus on a bright future. Once again, thank you.


p.s. When I arrive at the 50th Anniversary I only wanted to perform and be apart of history. I was honored when Daryl ask me to perform. If he hadn't I might not have gotten the chance to perform (Michael of course). Daryl, thank you for letting me be apart of an unforgettable dynasty. Daryl Harris was one of the first and I will always view him as the BEST!

Chief- I knew you were staying...it is a "Wonderful World"

Janet- You are my heart and I love you.

Erin- I will be in touch very soon. Thank you for trully believing in me.

TIB 99/01- Thank you for the experience. I miss you...well (just kidding).

ChiQuita- Even tough we fought we also became the best of friends (remember the Janet concert?) aka. Powder Booty

Posted by: Kellee Ryan on Thu, Jan 26 at 12:15:15 EST
Toured in: 95, etc

Hey Blue...

Congrats John, make us proud on American Idol. None of Simon's snippity comments could ever hurt as deeply as one of those quiet talks Chief gives after a bad show and everyone is sitting in the front rows, hanging their heads knowing they've got it coming, then he tells you how you aren't carrying the name of Tops in Blue with pride and you let him down. Oh the pain.
Hey, does anyone know where I can get a video of the female priors singing "Lady Marmalade" from Worldwide? I can't seem to get ahold of Mario or the rest of the video guys and I'd sure like a copy - I'm willing to pay for postage, etc. Help? Anyone?

Much Blue Love
Kellee
The Wolverine of Love

Posted by: Keisha on Thu, Jan 26 at 13:40:39 EST
Toured in: 99

Hey errrbody. Well due to the time delay here in Germany, I am getting the US shows from yesterday (Wed) today (Thu) so...I seen't you John! Represent man! I saw your mom too...tell her hello for me. My sister called me yesterday when it aired in the US which was 2 am here in Germany. Bless her heart. But again congrats on makin it to H'Wood.

Hope everyone is doing well!!

Keisha

Posted by: Paul on Thu, Jan 26 at 13:50:52 EST
Toured in: 01

Simon voted no on John but remember, Simon defended John when Randy made a comment about a circus performance. Simon didn't give the impression that he didn't like John. It was more like John just wasn't what Simon was looking for at the time.
On another note, I was also happy to see John's vocal teacher on there as well. My wife and I both have worked with the same teacher on our own vocal coaching. If anyone is in the sacramento area and would like good vocal coaching you should call her. Her name is Pat Crane. Email me and I will give the number to you.

Posted by: Katie Palmer on Thu, Jan 26 at 14:27:24 EST
Toured in: 2001

SHANE: We DO love to tear down!!! Hahaha!

and Shane, Kellee may not be able to confirm or deny, but I got pictures... Just kidding ;o) That was CLASSIC!!!

The one night I miss American Idol (luckily I Tivo'd it for tonight) I go and MISS John Williams audition! *lol* I can't wait to get home from work tonight!!!

JOHN WILLIAMS: Since Hollywood week was last month, e-mail me and let me know what happened ;-) ...please *lol* luv ya!

PAUL: I tried out for American Idol last year in Vegas. It was more for fun than anything, since I am OBSESSED with the show, I felt I had to be a little part of it. I of course didn't make it past the first round, but I wear my American Idol Reject t-shirt with pride!

Good times...

Posted by: Keisha on Thu, Jan 26 at 14:37:36 EST
Toured in: 99

One more thing....my sister logged onto AOL today and what did she see?? John's mug. She sent me the link so for any of you who didn't see it, here it is (Hope you don't mind John...email me sometime, let me know how you are...did you get out of the AF?)

http://television.aol.com/americanidol/video_clips?defaultId=1457218

Click on "Remix"

Keisha

Posted by: Amy Hoogstraten (Pitts) on Thu, Jan 26 at 16:35:44 EST
Toured in: NONE. SO SAD:-(

Just a quick note to tell everyone hello. Unfortunately, I was passed over in 01 :-(, but those of you that I met and spent time with at staging... you are all close to my heart and are remembered well. I hope everyone is doing alright! I am not a "prior" so I didn't feel right posting before, but today I have no choice. I am so very proud of John Williams that I had to share it with the world! John was the first one to believe in me when it came to trying out for TIB, selflessly helped me along the way, and always stressed that I should be "original". John, I'm so proud of you! You did "yo thang", that special way you always do. Way to go, and always remember the "little people" that love ya! Best wishes and check your email. XO, Amy Hoogstraten (Pitts) P.S. Priors, no one deserves something like AI more than one of you! You guys made me look at the phrase "hard work" in a new light. God Bless!

Posted by: j on Thu, Jan 26 at 23:31:44 EST

Check out videos at American Idol Central on AOL http://television.aol.com/americanidol/video_clips?defaultId=1457218

Posted by: Cashenna Cross on Fri, Jan 27 at 01:51:46 EST
Toured in: 2001

John, way to go! I'm deployed yes again but wanted to let you know in this distant location we saw the show (worldwide) and that hey, we are rooting for you and praying your dreams to come true. Way to break through American Idol. Good Luck.

Posted by: Errrrnnnn on Fri, Jan 27 at 07:19:52 EST
Toured in: 2004

Along with Kellee, I too am searching for anyone with a video of Lady Marmalade!!! I'm desparate! :) Mario, where ya at? Any of the other Divas get anything?? Let me know! Tx.

Posted by: Dave Davis on Fri, Jan 27 at 08:26:22 EST
Toured in: 2000

Here's a story in today's base paper on Shiloh Pogue(2006 selectee). Page 14 (hit the + to make it bigger);-)

http://e.thetimesnews.com/Daily/skins/EglinEagle/navigator.asp?AW=1138367581377


2005: Hang in there! The finish line is in sight! See ya in March!

Lots O' Blue Love,
Dave

Posted by: Shane Riley on Fri, Jan 27 at 14:49:09 EST
Toured in: 2000/2001

You will always be my little American Idol Katie!!!!!!!!!!!! Those audio cables are a mess, what are you doing? (smile)

Posted by: Kahlil on Fri, Jan 27 at 15:14:56 EST
Toured in: 94,95

Mike Young, Arturo Eusebio, check your email. Folks...

Posted by: Russ "I Drove All Night" Bratcher on Fri, Jan 27 at 16:38:02 EST
Toured in: WWTC 2005

Hey TIB!

I have been thinking about you guys starting your next tour up! I wanted to check out the latest buzz. Some of the guys and gals from WWTC '05 are on this next tour that I know and I wanted to wish you all good luck! Looking forward as always to see you this fall in England!

Breona, I wish you the best! Thanks for keeping in touch with me since WWTC '05! Knock them dead girl! Your pictures on Mr. Burch's Website from WWTC '06 look amazing!

I pray blessings on the new cast, crew, production team and leadership!

Yall take care of each other! Be a team!

Email me back if you know who I am, and let me know what is going on with you!

"If you can Dream it, you can do it!" -Walt Disney

Take Care!

Russ

Posted by: JD on Sat, Jan 28 at 03:02:08 EST
Toured in: Y2K

LOVE YA BLUE!!!!

Posted by: Big Fun on Sat, Jan 28 at 09:01:33 EST
Toured in: 88,90,95

Kellee,
Your Email is not right on the priors page, Can you send me an email?

Brian

Posted by: Alex on Sat, Jan 28 at 11:34:31 EST
Toured in: 96,98

Mellisa Ritz.
My friend Terry is playing Seaweed in the Vegas Hairspray.
You need to walk up and hug him for me.
you can't miss him. He's 6'5 size zero in women's pants the darkest skined man you will ever meet and an absolute angel who when he sings will melt your face off.
Hey be careful about callin them folks green too. They got the entire original Broadway cast to come back together to open up the Vegas show. my friend is THE ONLY new cast member.
If you're really nice to terry he may get you a ticket and you can meet Harvey. Harvey's a bit of a B****. but you're a tough girl. if you can put up with me you can handle him.
I'm serious though. Go right up to terry and tell him you know me and hug his neck for me.

I miss all the rest of you. I should be leaving South America any day now and I'll be opening my two businesses in Maui this year. Stop in and we'll ride some waves together.
Mahalo

Posted by: Charles on Sat, Jan 28 at 17:32:49 EST
Toured in: 2003

Hello everyone. It's been a while since the last time I was on here but I know this is one place I can come to find some "prayin folk". Some very good friends of mine just found out this morning that they lost their baby. They are a very young couple and she was just a few months pregnant. Please keep them in your prayers as this is an extremely difficult time for them. Their names are Mike and Rachel Williams. Thanks a lot guys.

Charles Cook
TIB '03

Posted by: Mel Ritz on Sat, Jan 28 at 18:20:08 EST
Toured in: 1998 baby!

Alex....

I stand corrected on my premature "green" comment.....I was watching the early stages of the rehearsals.

I've seen Terry and your description is correct! I will definitely pass the info and the hug (if he'll let me) on to him! That's exciting! I'm actually taking a stage mgmt class at UNLV and sat in on a rehearsal and met with the stage mgr of Hairspray, so I'm excited to see the show at the Luxor. I'll get back to you about Terry!

What kind of business in Maui??

~Mel
:)

Posted by: jai on Sat, Jan 28 at 21:14:47 EST
Toured in: 02/04

Cookie!!!!!!


I gotcha back brotha

Posted by: Kitty Ellis on Sat, Jan 28 at 21:19:18 EST
Toured in: 2000

Hello everyone! I have been sort of MIA for quite some time. I just wanted to send a big hello out to my TIB2000 family. I miss all of you. Life has been busy but great. I was able to spend 3 years in Germany--LOVED IT!!! Now I am attending school full time courtesy of the Air Force. I am going to Duke University in Durham, NC. I will graduate this December with a dual degree as a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. It is highly probable that I will be stationed at San Antonio after I graduate. I hope so, I miss not being around TIB. Well, I will try to not be such a stranger anymore.

Love to all,
Kitty

Posted by: Jeremy Bankston on Mon, Jan 30 at 18:34:04 EST
Toured in: 04/06

I'm baaack. Some of you might still remember me. Ya know.. the short civilian guy that hung out with you fellas for a few months in 04. I had such a great experience with everyone that I am coming back... for the full tour this time. I'll be in SA, TX on friday to start working my lighting magic...lol. I miss all of you from my previous tour and I am certainly looking forward to starting a new one this week. God bless.

JB

Posted by: Ian on Tue, Jan 31 at 08:08:04 EST
Toured in: 02

Hey J!? When did they let you out? I thought you were in for murder or something.

Posted by: Bruce (Tich) Tichenor on Tue, Jan 31 at 15:22:53 EST
Toured in: 1973

Are you kidding me? Some 30+ years later, I decide to type TIB in a Google search and the best musical organization and experience of my life shows up. With the Roger sitting on my bureau all these years, I had a yearning to see if anything was still going on--particularly in the archives. I found a pic on the 70's page where we're all dressed in disco garb---what a fantastic stateside and far east tour! I'll be checking the priors list to see who I can find.

I'm a little disappointed that there isn't really a lot of sound bites or pics that go that far back, but it's still great to know how much TIB has grown--and technology certainly lends itself to documenting so much of the experience.

Big time Kudos to Bob Morrow for following through on his idea to create this superb website. What a challenging task and to think of all the work that was involved to get this far in its development.

Still can't belive that Tom Edwards is still involved. If anyone knows how I can get a hold of him, please let me know. What a great leader he was to us--we were only 18 strong, but made some awesome memories that have lasted for me over 30 years.

I'm still jamin' in groups ranging from brass ensembles to full orchestras to open mic nights (guitar/vocals) and now seeking to create a 60s-70s retro rock band.

Thanks for letting me share with you--the best of the AF TIB!

Tich

Posted by: Francine on Tue, Jan 31 at 15:58:48 EST
Toured in: 88 & 89!

'89 Is currently having an unofficial/unplanned Email reunion!
WOO HOOO! If any '89ers aren't getting the emails let me know!
...Makes me Blue-Sick!
Cen