FAN CLUB NEWSLETTERS 1972
June - December
June - December
Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #14 - June, 1972
Hi Fans!
Tour news this time starting with the hectic rush in the Carpenter home on the night of the Academy Awards. Karen and Richard had to turn down the dinner and party after the televised presentations, so they could finish packing and be at the airport for a 2:30 a.m. flight to Atlanta, Georgia. Fortunately the early morning flights have a lack of passengers; so arms were lifted from several seats, and a bed was make for a tired Karen who promptly hit the jet sack and slept her way to Georgia. They transferred to their Lear Jet in Atlanta, and were in Savannah in no time at all, and they all caught two hours of sleep.
In Richmond, Virginia they ran into freak trouble. Seems the "pop" music on the popcorn machine was coming thru their sound system. Karen said it sounded like a bunch of firecrackers.
John Bench, famous baseball star, who now has his own television show, taped an interview with Karen and Richard in Cincinnati. This was also the city where Karen visited the hospital emergency room as a patient with a severe cold and sore throat. The next day was a day off for the group, and she was advised to stay quietly in bed and nurse those precious vocal chords. Alas, someone left her door open, and before long her room resembled the winners circle -- flowers, people, excitement, etc.
After the gig in Huntington, West Virginia, they found themselves hemmed in the parking lot. There was no place to go but up, and unfortunately their car did not have the blades of a whirlybird to lift them out of their predicament, but they did have Randy Edelman, who, besides being a excellent musician, is also a great traffic director! He walked down the entire line of traffic asking each driver to please move over. The good people of Huntington graciously obliged, and a path was made for the Carpenter car to exit. Karen and Richard send their thanks to those good people.
Philadelphia will be remembered fondly for the groovy seafood dinner Karen and Richard enjoyed there. They ate at the Book Binders Restaurant, and recommend it highly to seafood lovers.
Although College Park, Maryland was having riot difficulties, there were no demonstrations while our duo was there. The only misfortune encountered there as in the dressing rooms. They used the local basketball team's dressing rooms, and the steam from the showers created a "London fog." This may be fine for basketball players, but for a chic performer who wants to look her best on stage, a steam room is the last place she wants to be in while dressing. Karen said she felt like wilted lettuce!
Looks like I'll have to continue tour news next month. There should be much to tell about the group's overseas jaunt.
Our duo send greetings from Australia where they are concert-hopping en-route to Japan where their parents will join them to attend more concerts.
More news next month.
EV
Hi Fans!
Tour news this time starting with the hectic rush in the Carpenter home on the night of the Academy Awards. Karen and Richard had to turn down the dinner and party after the televised presentations, so they could finish packing and be at the airport for a 2:30 a.m. flight to Atlanta, Georgia. Fortunately the early morning flights have a lack of passengers; so arms were lifted from several seats, and a bed was make for a tired Karen who promptly hit the jet sack and slept her way to Georgia. They transferred to their Lear Jet in Atlanta, and were in Savannah in no time at all, and they all caught two hours of sleep.
In Richmond, Virginia they ran into freak trouble. Seems the "pop" music on the popcorn machine was coming thru their sound system. Karen said it sounded like a bunch of firecrackers.
John Bench, famous baseball star, who now has his own television show, taped an interview with Karen and Richard in Cincinnati. This was also the city where Karen visited the hospital emergency room as a patient with a severe cold and sore throat. The next day was a day off for the group, and she was advised to stay quietly in bed and nurse those precious vocal chords. Alas, someone left her door open, and before long her room resembled the winners circle -- flowers, people, excitement, etc.
After the gig in Huntington, West Virginia, they found themselves hemmed in the parking lot. There was no place to go but up, and unfortunately their car did not have the blades of a whirlybird to lift them out of their predicament, but they did have Randy Edelman, who, besides being a excellent musician, is also a great traffic director! He walked down the entire line of traffic asking each driver to please move over. The good people of Huntington graciously obliged, and a path was made for the Carpenter car to exit. Karen and Richard send their thanks to those good people.
Philadelphia will be remembered fondly for the groovy seafood dinner Karen and Richard enjoyed there. They ate at the Book Binders Restaurant, and recommend it highly to seafood lovers.
Although College Park, Maryland was having riot difficulties, there were no demonstrations while our duo was there. The only misfortune encountered there as in the dressing rooms. They used the local basketball team's dressing rooms, and the steam from the showers created a "London fog." This may be fine for basketball players, but for a chic performer who wants to look her best on stage, a steam room is the last place she wants to be in while dressing. Karen said she felt like wilted lettuce!
Looks like I'll have to continue tour news next month. There should be much to tell about the group's overseas jaunt.
Our duo send greetings from Australia where they are concert-hopping en-route to Japan where their parents will join them to attend more concerts.
More news next month.
EV
>Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #15 - July, 1972
Hi Fans!
Promised you more tour news, so here we go. While attending the RIAA (Record Industry of America Association) dinner, Richard and Karen had the pleasure of meeting Paul Anka and Roger Williams, as well as numerous presidents of record companies. At the party afterwards, tons of peanuts in the shell were in abundance, and before the party ended, the floor was covered wall-to-wall with peanut shells!
In Baltimore, Maryland, Richard and Karen spent the first night at "Bear's" home, where they were treated to a hard shell crab feast which they devoured happily. The next evening found them at Baskin & Robbins famous Ice Cream (31 flavors) shop where "Bear" formally worked. Once again he donned his Baskin & Robbin's cap and served the duo.
Spartanburg will forever live in their memories for several reasons. It was there that they (and no doubt numerous other persons) were the recipients of a most unusual wake-up call. At 11:00 a.m. a friend buzzed their hotel room from his plane to let them know it was time to get up. That was some alarm clock! Karen said it was also in this city that they rode to the gig in a funeral limo. This in itself was not too unusual, but the little old chauffeur is endeared in their hearts. Most of his jobs featured funeral trips at 15 m.p.h so their jaunt to the gig was at the same rate of speed, resulting in a ten minute ride taking 45 minutes. To Richard who loves to do his own driving, it seemed like 45 years!
In Gainesville, an airport limo took them to their venue where there seemed to be a shortage of dressing rooms, and all the performers had to share the same dressing room. Karen, with the aid of a huge blackboard, managed to construct her own private corner. (She was a true Carpenter in every sense of the word).
On stage, after finishing Cinderella Rockafella with Doug, Karen crossed to the other side of the stage to render Superstar. Unaware of Richard's amused reaction, a pair of workman's gloves had been carelessly left on stage, which had been caught up in Karen's microphone, and were mysteriously following her across stage like an invisible glove-wearing-individual walking on their hands. Laughter erupted from all areas of the stage.
The Regency Hyatt House, with a lobby 20 stories high in Atlanta, was a very impressive building. Richard and Karen enjoyed their brief stay there very much. They were also impressed by the Abbey which, in it's day was quite a church. Care had been taken to keep it resembling the original structure, including the pews. After the show there, an all night "oldies piano contest" was held between Richard and five other guys. Richard was the winner, easily remembering and playing songs that were written before he was born.
A very impressive event for all concerned was a luncheon at the White House. Richard and Karen were among the invited guest who dined with Presidential assistants James Cavanuagh, Ken Cole and Ron Ziegler. Our twosome later had the pleasure of meeting the President's daughter Julie Eisenhower.
President Nixon was meeting with Dr. Henry Kissinger, so they did not meet him, but were invited back at a later date. They were given a tour of the White House, and were very impressed with the Cabinet Meeting Room which housed an extremely long table and huge chairs with name plaques displaying the name of each member. At the end of his term of office, the member is presented his chair as a gift. When Karen heard of this, she quipped "Just like the Carol Burnett Show", which brought smiles to the faces of the solemn dignitaries. Karen was reminded of the lovely director's chairs she and Richard were gifted with, each bearing their own name, after their appearance on an earlier Carol Burnett Show.
Hoping to give you news next month about the Australian and Oriental tour.
Rap later, EV.
Hi Fans!
Promised you more tour news, so here we go. While attending the RIAA (Record Industry of America Association) dinner, Richard and Karen had the pleasure of meeting Paul Anka and Roger Williams, as well as numerous presidents of record companies. At the party afterwards, tons of peanuts in the shell were in abundance, and before the party ended, the floor was covered wall-to-wall with peanut shells!
In Baltimore, Maryland, Richard and Karen spent the first night at "Bear's" home, where they were treated to a hard shell crab feast which they devoured happily. The next evening found them at Baskin & Robbins famous Ice Cream (31 flavors) shop where "Bear" formally worked. Once again he donned his Baskin & Robbin's cap and served the duo.
Spartanburg will forever live in their memories for several reasons. It was there that they (and no doubt numerous other persons) were the recipients of a most unusual wake-up call. At 11:00 a.m. a friend buzzed their hotel room from his plane to let them know it was time to get up. That was some alarm clock! Karen said it was also in this city that they rode to the gig in a funeral limo. This in itself was not too unusual, but the little old chauffeur is endeared in their hearts. Most of his jobs featured funeral trips at 15 m.p.h so their jaunt to the gig was at the same rate of speed, resulting in a ten minute ride taking 45 minutes. To Richard who loves to do his own driving, it seemed like 45 years!
In Gainesville, an airport limo took them to their venue where there seemed to be a shortage of dressing rooms, and all the performers had to share the same dressing room. Karen, with the aid of a huge blackboard, managed to construct her own private corner. (She was a true Carpenter in every sense of the word).
On stage, after finishing Cinderella Rockafella with Doug, Karen crossed to the other side of the stage to render Superstar. Unaware of Richard's amused reaction, a pair of workman's gloves had been carelessly left on stage, which had been caught up in Karen's microphone, and were mysteriously following her across stage like an invisible glove-wearing-individual walking on their hands. Laughter erupted from all areas of the stage.
The Regency Hyatt House, with a lobby 20 stories high in Atlanta, was a very impressive building. Richard and Karen enjoyed their brief stay there very much. They were also impressed by the Abbey which, in it's day was quite a church. Care had been taken to keep it resembling the original structure, including the pews. After the show there, an all night "oldies piano contest" was held between Richard and five other guys. Richard was the winner, easily remembering and playing songs that were written before he was born.
A very impressive event for all concerned was a luncheon at the White House. Richard and Karen were among the invited guest who dined with Presidential assistants James Cavanuagh, Ken Cole and Ron Ziegler. Our twosome later had the pleasure of meeting the President's daughter Julie Eisenhower.
President Nixon was meeting with Dr. Henry Kissinger, so they did not meet him, but were invited back at a later date. They were given a tour of the White House, and were very impressed with the Cabinet Meeting Room which housed an extremely long table and huge chairs with name plaques displaying the name of each member. At the end of his term of office, the member is presented his chair as a gift. When Karen heard of this, she quipped "Just like the Carol Burnett Show", which brought smiles to the faces of the solemn dignitaries. Karen was reminded of the lovely director's chairs she and Richard were gifted with, each bearing their own name, after their appearance on an earlier Carol Burnett Show.
Hoping to give you news next month about the Australian and Oriental tour.
Rap later, EV.
Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #17 - September, 1972
Hi Fans!
Time for another schedule which will take you through the rest of 1972.
September 20th - October 3rd, Riviera Hotel, Las Vegas
Oct. 4th Salt Lake City, University of Utah
Oct. 5th Boise, ID, Boise State College
Oct. 6th Seattle, WA, Center Arena
Oct. 7th Spokane, WA, Coliseum
Oct. 8th Portland, OR, Coliseum
Oct. 11th Lincoln, NB, Pershing
Oct. 12th Sioux City, IA, Muni. Auditorium
Oct. 13th Omaha, NB, Civic Auditorium
Oct. 14th Fargo, ND, Civic Auditorium
Oct. 15th Bismark, ND, Civic Arena
Oct. 16th Rochester, MN, Mayo Civic
Oct. 18th Duluth, MN, Arena
Oct. 19th Waterloo, IA, McElroy Auditorium
Oct. 20th Sioux Falls, SD, Arena
Oct. 21st Des Moines, IA
Oct. 22nd Davenport, IA, Masonic
Oct. 24th Milwaukee, WI, Auditorium
Oct. 25th Charleston, IL, Eastern IL Gym
Oct. 26th Owensboro, KY, Sports Center
Oct. 27th Peoria, IL, Bradley University
Oct. 28th Terre Haute, IN, Indiana State College
Nov. 10th Ft. Wayne, IN, Mem. Coliseum
Nov. 11th Lafayette, IN, Purdue
Nov. 12th Charleston, West Virginia, Civic Center
Nov. 14th New Haven, CT, War Memorial
Nov. 15th Boston, MA, Music Hall
Nov. 16th Utica, NY, Memorial Auditorium
Nov. 17th Scranton, PA, Catholic Youth Center
Nov. 18th Norfolk, VA, Scope
Nov. 19th Greensboro, NC, Coliseum
Nov. 20th Raleigh, NC, Dorton Arena
Nov. 21st Charleston, SC, Muni. Auditorium
Nov. 22nd Macon, CA, Coliseum
Nov. 23rd Jackson, MS, Memorial Auditorium
Nov. 24th Lake Charles, LA, Auditorium
Nov. 25th Shreveport, LA, Hirsch Memorial Coliseum
Nov. 26th Little Rock, AR, Robinson Theater
December - Christmas Vacation!
Richard and Karen paid their second visit to the White House, where they met President Nixon, who extended a very warm welcome to them. Both agreed he is a very gracious host.
The President presented Richard with a set of golf balls, and cuff links and Karen received a beautiful gold powder compact. All gifts bear the Presidential Seal, and will be cherished among their 'special' souvenirs.
In answer to your questions concerning Karen's romantic problems, let me assure you, she has none. She is not romantically involved with anyone and doesn't even have time to date!
"Bear" experienced a bad accident which could have taken his life, or left him blind, and it happened right outside his home. He had stopped for gas, and had been given two large bottles of Pepsi Cola as a 'bonus' for getting a fill-up. When he got home, as he was taking the bottles out of the car, one exploded. His face was badly cut, resulting in 7 stitches. Everyone was thankful the glass didn't penetrate his eyes or brain.
We've had many request for another question & answer session, so we have room for a few here.
Q: Has Richard every thought of doing a solo piano album?
A: Yes he is considering it.
Q: How long has Richard been writing songs with John Bettis?
A: They got together at Long Beach State College where both were students.
Q: Are there any Fan Club Members from foreign countries?
A: Yes, from England, Australia, Japan, Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines, Peru, Finland, Canada, Mexico, The Canal Zone, New Zealand, France, Italy, Greece, Holland, Belgium, Malaysia, Germany, West Indies.
Q: Does Karen have her own car? If so, what kind?
A: Karen owns a 1972 Mercedes Benz.
More next month - -EV.
Hi Fans!
Time for another schedule which will take you through the rest of 1972.
September 20th - October 3rd, Riviera Hotel, Las Vegas
Oct. 4th Salt Lake City, University of Utah
Oct. 5th Boise, ID, Boise State College
Oct. 6th Seattle, WA, Center Arena
Oct. 7th Spokane, WA, Coliseum
Oct. 8th Portland, OR, Coliseum
Oct. 11th Lincoln, NB, Pershing
Oct. 12th Sioux City, IA, Muni. Auditorium
Oct. 13th Omaha, NB, Civic Auditorium
Oct. 14th Fargo, ND, Civic Auditorium
Oct. 15th Bismark, ND, Civic Arena
Oct. 16th Rochester, MN, Mayo Civic
Oct. 18th Duluth, MN, Arena
Oct. 19th Waterloo, IA, McElroy Auditorium
Oct. 20th Sioux Falls, SD, Arena
Oct. 21st Des Moines, IA
Oct. 22nd Davenport, IA, Masonic
Oct. 24th Milwaukee, WI, Auditorium
Oct. 25th Charleston, IL, Eastern IL Gym
Oct. 26th Owensboro, KY, Sports Center
Oct. 27th Peoria, IL, Bradley University
Oct. 28th Terre Haute, IN, Indiana State College
Nov. 10th Ft. Wayne, IN, Mem. Coliseum
Nov. 11th Lafayette, IN, Purdue
Nov. 12th Charleston, West Virginia, Civic Center
Nov. 14th New Haven, CT, War Memorial
Nov. 15th Boston, MA, Music Hall
Nov. 16th Utica, NY, Memorial Auditorium
Nov. 17th Scranton, PA, Catholic Youth Center
Nov. 18th Norfolk, VA, Scope
Nov. 19th Greensboro, NC, Coliseum
Nov. 20th Raleigh, NC, Dorton Arena
Nov. 21st Charleston, SC, Muni. Auditorium
Nov. 22nd Macon, CA, Coliseum
Nov. 23rd Jackson, MS, Memorial Auditorium
Nov. 24th Lake Charles, LA, Auditorium
Nov. 25th Shreveport, LA, Hirsch Memorial Coliseum
Nov. 26th Little Rock, AR, Robinson Theater
December - Christmas Vacation!
Richard and Karen paid their second visit to the White House, where they met President Nixon, who extended a very warm welcome to them. Both agreed he is a very gracious host.
The President presented Richard with a set of golf balls, and cuff links and Karen received a beautiful gold powder compact. All gifts bear the Presidential Seal, and will be cherished among their 'special' souvenirs.
In answer to your questions concerning Karen's romantic problems, let me assure you, she has none. She is not romantically involved with anyone and doesn't even have time to date!
"Bear" experienced a bad accident which could have taken his life, or left him blind, and it happened right outside his home. He had stopped for gas, and had been given two large bottles of Pepsi Cola as a 'bonus' for getting a fill-up. When he got home, as he was taking the bottles out of the car, one exploded. His face was badly cut, resulting in 7 stitches. Everyone was thankful the glass didn't penetrate his eyes or brain.
We've had many request for another question & answer session, so we have room for a few here.
Q: Has Richard every thought of doing a solo piano album?
A: Yes he is considering it.
Q: How long has Richard been writing songs with John Bettis?
A: They got together at Long Beach State College where both were students.
Q: Are there any Fan Club Members from foreign countries?
A: Yes, from England, Australia, Japan, Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines, Peru, Finland, Canada, Mexico, The Canal Zone, New Zealand, France, Italy, Greece, Holland, Belgium, Malaysia, Germany, West Indies.
Q: Does Karen have her own car? If so, what kind?
A: Karen owns a 1972 Mercedes Benz.
More next month - -EV.
Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #18 - October, 1972
Hi Fans!
We have some changes, additions and one cancellation in our October concert schedule, so please note: Due to a collapsed ceiling, the concert in Des Moines, Iowa for October 21st has been canceled. On that day the Carpenters will be playing at the McElroy Auditorium in Waterloo, Iowa. So Waterloo fans, you will not be seeing the group on the 19th as previously scheduled, but they WILL be there on Oct. 21st.
Wisconsin fans will be pleased to hear they will appear at the Auditorium in Green Bay On October 17th, and in LaCrosse at the Sawyer Auditorium October, 23rd. This is in addition to their Milwaukee Auditorium appearance on the 24th.
More good news: Karen and Richard have taped a Bob Hope Special due to air Oct. 5th. Still more good news for those of you who asked for a Carpenter poster like the little heart picture on their A Song For You album - these new posters will be available and mailed out around the first of Nov.
Now bits and pieces from their last tour. The inebriated joker on stage in Houston who played Karen's drums, was NOT part of the act! Neither were the police who transplanted him into Houston jail.
Floods and rain plagued them on the east coast. In Johnstown where a flood had ravaged the town before their arrival, the questions was; "To play or not to play?" They played to a very appreciative audience. It seemed their music helped restore the townspeople's morale!
Confusion reigned at dinnertime when a lady approached Sherwin and Bobbie and asked for their autographs, thinking they were Richard and Karen. Can you imagine their bearded manager being mistaken for Richard? To top that, a fellow approached Richard, handed him a dub and asked him to give it to Richard Carpenter!
In the Garden State they arrived to find Sherwin's room under flood waters. Saratoga was another wet one where they played in pouring rain. It was here that Bill Skiles and Pete Henderson, their opening act comedians, were not recognized by the security guards when they arrived, and were forced to park in the patrons lot.
In Toronto, the Hungarian Village again beckoned Richard and Karen and they dined there for three successive meals. After an almost fruitless search in Toronto stores, Karen finally found some tennis shoes, and the group engaged in badminton and tennis. Oh yes, it was here that a lady asked Karen for her union card!
Richard was on cloud-nine when he was introduced to the chief mechanic of the Indianapolis Racetrack, who allowed Richard to sit in the race cars of Andretti, Leonard and Al Unser.
In Chicago, they took over the entire 19th floor of the Astro Towers, where they were served breakfast by waiters in "Ties and Tails".
The duo were very impressed with the newly build Pine Knob Theater, Michigan. They made friends with the owner of this magnificent place, and since construction was still in progress they were able to give him pointers that would be helpful to patrons and performers. The Pine Knob audience was especially receptive, and got so enthused they danced in the aisles. Unfortunately, here again they encountered another drunk who kept interrupting the show by demanding something by Elvis. He caused such a commotion that the group decided to leave the stage for a brief interval.
Pine Knob offered them a rare opportunity to return to Karen's first love - Softball. They played on the grounds until the automatic sprinklers turned on and made them wet. The game was called off because of the man made rain.
The London Chop House proved to be a favorite eating place for our duo here.
To be continued next month, EV.
Hi Fans!
We have some changes, additions and one cancellation in our October concert schedule, so please note: Due to a collapsed ceiling, the concert in Des Moines, Iowa for October 21st has been canceled. On that day the Carpenters will be playing at the McElroy Auditorium in Waterloo, Iowa. So Waterloo fans, you will not be seeing the group on the 19th as previously scheduled, but they WILL be there on Oct. 21st.
Wisconsin fans will be pleased to hear they will appear at the Auditorium in Green Bay On October 17th, and in LaCrosse at the Sawyer Auditorium October, 23rd. This is in addition to their Milwaukee Auditorium appearance on the 24th.
More good news: Karen and Richard have taped a Bob Hope Special due to air Oct. 5th. Still more good news for those of you who asked for a Carpenter poster like the little heart picture on their A Song For You album - these new posters will be available and mailed out around the first of Nov.
Now bits and pieces from their last tour. The inebriated joker on stage in Houston who played Karen's drums, was NOT part of the act! Neither were the police who transplanted him into Houston jail.
Floods and rain plagued them on the east coast. In Johnstown where a flood had ravaged the town before their arrival, the questions was; "To play or not to play?" They played to a very appreciative audience. It seemed their music helped restore the townspeople's morale!
Confusion reigned at dinnertime when a lady approached Sherwin and Bobbie and asked for their autographs, thinking they were Richard and Karen. Can you imagine their bearded manager being mistaken for Richard? To top that, a fellow approached Richard, handed him a dub and asked him to give it to Richard Carpenter!
In the Garden State they arrived to find Sherwin's room under flood waters. Saratoga was another wet one where they played in pouring rain. It was here that Bill Skiles and Pete Henderson, their opening act comedians, were not recognized by the security guards when they arrived, and were forced to park in the patrons lot.
In Toronto, the Hungarian Village again beckoned Richard and Karen and they dined there for three successive meals. After an almost fruitless search in Toronto stores, Karen finally found some tennis shoes, and the group engaged in badminton and tennis. Oh yes, it was here that a lady asked Karen for her union card!
Richard was on cloud-nine when he was introduced to the chief mechanic of the Indianapolis Racetrack, who allowed Richard to sit in the race cars of Andretti, Leonard and Al Unser.
In Chicago, they took over the entire 19th floor of the Astro Towers, where they were served breakfast by waiters in "Ties and Tails".
The duo were very impressed with the newly build Pine Knob Theater, Michigan. They made friends with the owner of this magnificent place, and since construction was still in progress they were able to give him pointers that would be helpful to patrons and performers. The Pine Knob audience was especially receptive, and got so enthused they danced in the aisles. Unfortunately, here again they encountered another drunk who kept interrupting the show by demanding something by Elvis. He caused such a commotion that the group decided to leave the stage for a brief interval.
Pine Knob offered them a rare opportunity to return to Karen's first love - Softball. They played on the grounds until the automatic sprinklers turned on and made them wet. The game was called off because of the man made rain.
The London Chop House proved to be a favorite eating place for our duo here.
To be continued next month, EV.
Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #19 - November, 1972
Hi Fans!
Let's backtrack to Columbia. Karen and Richard were assigned a house trailer to use as a dressing room, but upon their arrival no one had a key. Fortunately Bear had brought his younger brother Chris who was small enough to be lifted through a rear window which had been conveniently left open. Consequently Chris made the hero of the day and was given a surprise "reward" that night by Bill Skiles (half of the opening act team). When Bill and Pete left the stage after their act to return for a bow, Bill returned with young Chris instead of Pete! There's never a dull moment when Skiles & Henderson are around, they are indeed true entertainers - on and off stage.
Back in Los Angeles the Carpenters Greek Theater concerts were sold out every night. Mr. Doolittle gave them an opening night party at his palatial home, and fun loving Herb Alpert sent Karen and Richard a most unusual opening night gift in the form of an old battered trumpet that looks as if a ten ton truck had run over it.
The group's 9:00 a.m. Colorado take off flight was detained for an hour when it was discovered the plane had damaged landing gear. All passengers were transferred to another plane an hour later.
They were duly impressed with Denver's beautiful Red Rocks Theater. Richard said it is comparable to the Hollywood Bowl here in Los Angeles. In spite of strong winds and the terrible traffic conditions, the audience was fantastic, and the group really enjoyed playing there. Word soon got around they were rehearsing in the afternoon, and before they knew it they were entertaining about 4,000 people! They caught an early fight out of Denver the next morning, arriving in Los Angeles at 5:00 a.m.
Thanks to their Tahoe engagement, Richard had a rare treat. He was able to drive his new red Ferrari to Lake Tahoe. Their cross country tours seldom afford him this opportunity which he so enjoys.
They were assigned the Sahara Stars House as living quarters during their stay in Tahoe, but couldn't move in until midnight when Tom Jones vacated the premises. Having a chef and maid at their disposal gave the group time for horseback riding, bike riding, water skiing and tennis in between rehearsal sessions. Their leisure time also included a picnic on the shores of beautiful Emerald Bay. Although the weather was perfect, the high altitude affected their throats and breathing, but did not keep them from their musical performances.
A special treat was afforded Karen and Richard when they were invited to meet the U.S. Airforce "Thunderbirds", and watch their air show. The pilots in turn attended one of the Sahara concerts.
The duo one day decide to rent a speed boat and skim the length of colorful, peaceful Lake Tahoe. They were enjoying the jaunt when the tranquillity was suddenly disturbed by a mountain storm which swept down the mountains to the lake, which threatened to overturn their boat. As you can imagine, they headed for shore at top speed!
When they finally took leave of this Tahoe "wonderland", they were advised to take Highway 395 rather than Interstate 5 which they traveled on the way to Tahoe. This way they avoided an 80 car pile-up caused by a very severe dust storm from the dessert sands.
Confirmation has just been received that Karen and Richard will start taping with Robert Young for the Robert Young With The Young Special. The tentative air date schedule for March 1st, 1973.
CHANGES: Raleigh canceled. Charleston date moved to Nov. 20th. All engagements from Nov. 21st through 26th now cancelled.
Catch ya next month - EV
Hi Fans!
Let's backtrack to Columbia. Karen and Richard were assigned a house trailer to use as a dressing room, but upon their arrival no one had a key. Fortunately Bear had brought his younger brother Chris who was small enough to be lifted through a rear window which had been conveniently left open. Consequently Chris made the hero of the day and was given a surprise "reward" that night by Bill Skiles (half of the opening act team). When Bill and Pete left the stage after their act to return for a bow, Bill returned with young Chris instead of Pete! There's never a dull moment when Skiles & Henderson are around, they are indeed true entertainers - on and off stage.
Back in Los Angeles the Carpenters Greek Theater concerts were sold out every night. Mr. Doolittle gave them an opening night party at his palatial home, and fun loving Herb Alpert sent Karen and Richard a most unusual opening night gift in the form of an old battered trumpet that looks as if a ten ton truck had run over it.
The group's 9:00 a.m. Colorado take off flight was detained for an hour when it was discovered the plane had damaged landing gear. All passengers were transferred to another plane an hour later.
They were duly impressed with Denver's beautiful Red Rocks Theater. Richard said it is comparable to the Hollywood Bowl here in Los Angeles. In spite of strong winds and the terrible traffic conditions, the audience was fantastic, and the group really enjoyed playing there. Word soon got around they were rehearsing in the afternoon, and before they knew it they were entertaining about 4,000 people! They caught an early fight out of Denver the next morning, arriving in Los Angeles at 5:00 a.m.
Thanks to their Tahoe engagement, Richard had a rare treat. He was able to drive his new red Ferrari to Lake Tahoe. Their cross country tours seldom afford him this opportunity which he so enjoys.
They were assigned the Sahara Stars House as living quarters during their stay in Tahoe, but couldn't move in until midnight when Tom Jones vacated the premises. Having a chef and maid at their disposal gave the group time for horseback riding, bike riding, water skiing and tennis in between rehearsal sessions. Their leisure time also included a picnic on the shores of beautiful Emerald Bay. Although the weather was perfect, the high altitude affected their throats and breathing, but did not keep them from their musical performances.
A special treat was afforded Karen and Richard when they were invited to meet the U.S. Airforce "Thunderbirds", and watch their air show. The pilots in turn attended one of the Sahara concerts.
The duo one day decide to rent a speed boat and skim the length of colorful, peaceful Lake Tahoe. They were enjoying the jaunt when the tranquillity was suddenly disturbed by a mountain storm which swept down the mountains to the lake, which threatened to overturn their boat. As you can imagine, they headed for shore at top speed!
When they finally took leave of this Tahoe "wonderland", they were advised to take Highway 395 rather than Interstate 5 which they traveled on the way to Tahoe. This way they avoided an 80 car pile-up caused by a very severe dust storm from the dessert sands.
Confirmation has just been received that Karen and Richard will start taping with Robert Young for the Robert Young With The Young Special. The tentative air date schedule for March 1st, 1973.
CHANGES: Raleigh canceled. Charleston date moved to Nov. 20th. All engagements from Nov. 21st through 26th now cancelled.
Catch ya next month - EV
Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #20 - December, 1972
Hi Fans!
Richard sends his thanks for all the lovely gifts and cards you all bestowed upon him. He particularly enjoyed the unique hand-made cards and gifts.
It was bound to happened sometime, and it did in Las Vegas. The opening act was finished, the M.C. announced "Ladies & Gentlemen - The Carpenters," the drum roll had commenced, and there stood Richard on stage - WITHOUT KAREN!! She was still in her dressing room unaware that it was curtain time. There were no monitors, and nobody had warned her. Needless to say, it was an astronomical Karen who flew on stage to sing the opening number which hilariously enough was Help.
Three days before the Vegas closing, they found that each morning they had to strip the stage of all instruments and equipment so Nancy Sinatra could rehearse her act which would follow the Carpenters closing. Then it had to be set up again by six in the evening, in time for their dinner show.
During the Tyre convention held in Las Vegas while Karen and Richard were there, they partied in Richard's dressing room with Mario Andretti, Parnelli Jones, Unser and other great race car drivers. Andretti and Richard had quite a Ferrari discussion, and Skiles and Henderson entertained with a hilarious car skit.
Other VIPs who dropped in to visit during their Vegas run were Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the Air Force Thunderbird pilots, Gerry Vail, Chill Wills, and Julie Nixon Eisenhower. Julie's visit was to our duo's Vegas residence, rather than the Riviera. Though secret servicemen were in attendance during Julie's visit, she entered the Carpenters house alone, and they all enjoyed a pleasant private visit. Julie later presented Richard and Karen with a beautiful book which she had edited, all about the Nixon family.
Karen and Richard also visited the Nellis Air Force Base, meeting again with the Thunderbird pilots, and were privileged to climb aboard one of the planes while Dad Carpenter took movies of the action.
A few times just for kicks, they went to Circus Circus, a circus atmosphere night club there, and road the bumper cars. Arriving at a time when there were no other patrons, the attendants turned the power up full blast so they'd experience rougher bumps, and a good time was had by all.
Leaving that fabulous city, the group flew on to Salt Lake City for a gig at the Special Events Center. Though once again their equipment truck was late in arriving, all hands on deck enabled the stage to be set up in time for the evening performance. However, the heavy rain created traffic problems with detained the show 45 minutes.
At Boise State College, there were locker rooms only for dressing rooms, so Karen was given the use of a coach's office that conveniently sported a lovely shower. After the gig they went to the only 24 hour restaurant for dinner, but when they arrived it seemed like the entire Boise State audience had the same idea. The place was so crowed there was no room for the group, so they didn't get dinner until 3:00 a.m. the next morning. So much for one night stands!
In Seattle's Center Arena, the show's promoter had delectable snacks sent to the arena for the group. This included a huge fruit bowl which overflowed with all the available fresh fruits including pomegranates, (the juicy red fruit with a jillion seeds). Karen, Maria & Danny attacked these with justo, while the rest of the group stuck with the more conventional fruit. Curt Mercer, the lighting man celebrated a birthday that day, so they all trooped to Victor 6/10 for dinner-a hearty Italian one!
Dressing rooms in Spokane, though a bit small, were lovely, with sparkling clean showers and lighted mirrors. Blackula, Karen's big black wardrobe trunk had to be left in the hall nearby for custume pressing. After the gig, the hungry group returned to their hotel for dinner, to find to their dismay the kitchen was closed. Trudging to the bar, they located the chef who took pity on them and returned to the kitchen to prepare them a great steak dinner.
The next stop was Portland, Oregon, and the thought of two days off, which gave them a chance to fly home, and attend an A&M dinner.
Continued next month. Ev.
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Hi Fans!
Richard sends his thanks for all the lovely gifts and cards you all bestowed upon him. He particularly enjoyed the unique hand-made cards and gifts.
It was bound to happened sometime, and it did in Las Vegas. The opening act was finished, the M.C. announced "Ladies & Gentlemen - The Carpenters," the drum roll had commenced, and there stood Richard on stage - WITHOUT KAREN!! She was still in her dressing room unaware that it was curtain time. There were no monitors, and nobody had warned her. Needless to say, it was an astronomical Karen who flew on stage to sing the opening number which hilariously enough was Help.
Three days before the Vegas closing, they found that each morning they had to strip the stage of all instruments and equipment so Nancy Sinatra could rehearse her act which would follow the Carpenters closing. Then it had to be set up again by six in the evening, in time for their dinner show.
During the Tyre convention held in Las Vegas while Karen and Richard were there, they partied in Richard's dressing room with Mario Andretti, Parnelli Jones, Unser and other great race car drivers. Andretti and Richard had quite a Ferrari discussion, and Skiles and Henderson entertained with a hilarious car skit.
Other VIPs who dropped in to visit during their Vegas run were Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the Air Force Thunderbird pilots, Gerry Vail, Chill Wills, and Julie Nixon Eisenhower. Julie's visit was to our duo's Vegas residence, rather than the Riviera. Though secret servicemen were in attendance during Julie's visit, she entered the Carpenters house alone, and they all enjoyed a pleasant private visit. Julie later presented Richard and Karen with a beautiful book which she had edited, all about the Nixon family.
Karen and Richard also visited the Nellis Air Force Base, meeting again with the Thunderbird pilots, and were privileged to climb aboard one of the planes while Dad Carpenter took movies of the action.
A few times just for kicks, they went to Circus Circus, a circus atmosphere night club there, and road the bumper cars. Arriving at a time when there were no other patrons, the attendants turned the power up full blast so they'd experience rougher bumps, and a good time was had by all.
Leaving that fabulous city, the group flew on to Salt Lake City for a gig at the Special Events Center. Though once again their equipment truck was late in arriving, all hands on deck enabled the stage to be set up in time for the evening performance. However, the heavy rain created traffic problems with detained the show 45 minutes.
At Boise State College, there were locker rooms only for dressing rooms, so Karen was given the use of a coach's office that conveniently sported a lovely shower. After the gig they went to the only 24 hour restaurant for dinner, but when they arrived it seemed like the entire Boise State audience had the same idea. The place was so crowed there was no room for the group, so they didn't get dinner until 3:00 a.m. the next morning. So much for one night stands!
In Seattle's Center Arena, the show's promoter had delectable snacks sent to the arena for the group. This included a huge fruit bowl which overflowed with all the available fresh fruits including pomegranates, (the juicy red fruit with a jillion seeds). Karen, Maria & Danny attacked these with justo, while the rest of the group stuck with the more conventional fruit. Curt Mercer, the lighting man celebrated a birthday that day, so they all trooped to Victor 6/10 for dinner-a hearty Italian one!
Dressing rooms in Spokane, though a bit small, were lovely, with sparkling clean showers and lighted mirrors. Blackula, Karen's big black wardrobe trunk had to be left in the hall nearby for custume pressing. After the gig, the hungry group returned to their hotel for dinner, to find to their dismay the kitchen was closed. Trudging to the bar, they located the chef who took pity on them and returned to the kitchen to prepare them a great steak dinner.
The next stop was Portland, Oregon, and the thought of two days off, which gave them a chance to fly home, and attend an A&M dinner.
Continued next month. Ev.
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This page last updated March 2, 2010.