FAN CLUB NEWSLETTERS 1978
July - November
July - November
Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #60 - July, 1978
Hi Fans:
Carpenters and staff hope you are all enjoying a wonderful and safe summer vacation. We extend congratulations to all graduates, and wish you success in your chosen fields.
Richard and Karen have been very busy as usual, and haven't given any thought to vacation time. They have just returned home from a two week engagement at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, where their show was well received.
The new show now, includes the Star Wars and Close Encounters plan rendition which Richard played so superbly at their Space Encounters T.V Special last May. They utilized fire pots and laser beams as in the Special much to the delight of the audience. Even space ships were visible! Due to a technical hitch this system couldn't be installed until the second week of the engagement. Unfortunately they were unable to make full use of the huge mirror they introduced on stage for the Warsaw Concerto in previous shows. It was lowered for a brief period, then raised out of sight to avoid interference with the lasers and other special lighting effects.
So sorry we could not advise you in advance about their appearance On the Tonight Show June 27th. It was one of those last minute decision events which was not confirmed in time to be announced in the TV Guide. Richard and Karen stole time from a recording session to appear as a favor for their friend John Davidson who was hosting for Johnny Carson, so we hope many of you caught the show. Karen sang a gorgeous song they discovered on their recent trip to Europe, entitled Thank You for The Music. This is also be incorporated in their new road show.
The Christmas album is completed, and work on the jacket is in progress. You will enjoy the variety of beautiful music Richard has chosen. You will recognize a few of the numbers from last year's Christmas Special.
The B.L. Mitchell single Where I Want To Be / Venus was released July and should be in your music stores now. We wish Bob every success with his first venture into the tough world of music. He is a fine vocalist, and the superb backing of Richard's and Peter Knight's arrangements and orchestrations can only enhance the progress of his first single.
At the present time, Richard and Karen are back at A & M studios again working on another album. They've already spent many long hours on it, but have a long way to go. When complete, it will be another gem.
Attention Car Buffs! You'll be interested to know the August issue of Motor Trend Magazine will feature an article and some photos of Richard's Chrysler 300 D convertible. The article is entitled Retrospect. The center of the magazine is a double page colored picture of the white beauty, plus some excellent black & white shots of the front & back interior, wheel, tailfin, engine, dash and 300 D insignia.
Since the last newsletter, there have been four cars added to Richard's collection. A 1963 Pontiac Grand Prix, a 1957 Jaguar XK-14O, 1978 Corvette and a 1961 Chrysler 300 D convertible. Karen has purchased a second car-a 1956 Thunderbird convertible. We don't think she has designs on attaining a vast collection like her brother!
Mom and Dad Carpenter entered Richard's 1957 Chrysler 300 C in Harrah's prestigious Car Show in Sparks, Nevada where it won first place in the Chrysler 300 C category. A proud Mom & Dad carried the beautiful sterling silver trophy back home to Downey, where it now rests among others on shelf in the music room.
Happy to report that on a recent special edition of American Top 40 countdown, featuring the Top 40 Artists of the 1970's, in accordance with the Billboard Magazine, Richard & Karen rated #4 which is no mean feat in the tough competitive world of music. Realizing that in April, 1979, they will have survived a decade in their chosen field, we are indeed mighty proud of our multi-talented idols.
Although the trip to Europe was very brief, Richard & Karen met some very nice people when they went to participate in the Star Parade t.v. show in Germany, and the Top Pop show in Holland, and enjoyed meeting their loyal fans from both countries. They were particularly delighted to meet the famous group Abba in Germany. The songs they recorded for the shows were Sweet, Sweet Smile and Top of The World, since which, Smile has become a hit in Europe.
There is room for just a few questions and answers as follows:
Q. Can we expect a new single in the near future?
A. Yes. Decision not concrete to-date, but it is a toss-up between Thank You for The Music or I Believe You.
Q. Is there any info on the next new album?
A. It is hoped to be completed by the fall. Some of the tracks include Little Girl Blue, When I Fall In Love & Dancing In The Street.
Q. When will B.L. Mitchell's album be completed?
A. Some time after the Carpenters two albums are finished.
Q. Have any other artists attended any of your Las Vegas shows this year?
A. Yes, Glen Campbell, John Davidson & Captain & Tennille.
Q. Are any overseas tours scheduled for the remainder of this year?
A. Discussions regarding possibilities are in progress, but nothing has been confirmed at this premature stage of same.
Q. Will the Christmas Album be released only in the USA or worldwide?
A. Indeed it will be released worldwide.
Richard and Karen are quite excited about their prospective 2 or 3 day trip to Nashville, Tennessee next week, where they will meet their friend Joe Osborne, check out the music scene, and record some tracks.
They feel very perturbed by the fact that they have found it impossible to tour Statewide for quite a time, but when you realize what they will have accomplished by the end of 1978, I'm sure you will understand why. They cannot provide us with so much beautiful music we expect of them, and which is very time consuming, as well as touring around the country. I know the end result of their upcoming albums will prove to be more than well worth the wait of seeing them 'live' in your cities.
Just received the exciting news that confirms Richard & Karen will be staging their own Christmas TV Special again this year(one more reason for their lack of appearances at your concert halls!) There is no info regarding their prospective guests at this stage. I will notify you as soon as it becomes available.
You may have seen the highway patrol commercials featuring Richard & Karen advising us all to 'Drive Carefully' & hope you heed same!
Rap in September EV.
Hi Fans:
Carpenters and staff hope you are all enjoying a wonderful and safe summer vacation. We extend congratulations to all graduates, and wish you success in your chosen fields.
Richard and Karen have been very busy as usual, and haven't given any thought to vacation time. They have just returned home from a two week engagement at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, where their show was well received.
The new show now, includes the Star Wars and Close Encounters plan rendition which Richard played so superbly at their Space Encounters T.V Special last May. They utilized fire pots and laser beams as in the Special much to the delight of the audience. Even space ships were visible! Due to a technical hitch this system couldn't be installed until the second week of the engagement. Unfortunately they were unable to make full use of the huge mirror they introduced on stage for the Warsaw Concerto in previous shows. It was lowered for a brief period, then raised out of sight to avoid interference with the lasers and other special lighting effects.
So sorry we could not advise you in advance about their appearance On the Tonight Show June 27th. It was one of those last minute decision events which was not confirmed in time to be announced in the TV Guide. Richard and Karen stole time from a recording session to appear as a favor for their friend John Davidson who was hosting for Johnny Carson, so we hope many of you caught the show. Karen sang a gorgeous song they discovered on their recent trip to Europe, entitled Thank You for The Music. This is also be incorporated in their new road show.
The Christmas album is completed, and work on the jacket is in progress. You will enjoy the variety of beautiful music Richard has chosen. You will recognize a few of the numbers from last year's Christmas Special.
The B.L. Mitchell single Where I Want To Be / Venus was released July and should be in your music stores now. We wish Bob every success with his first venture into the tough world of music. He is a fine vocalist, and the superb backing of Richard's and Peter Knight's arrangements and orchestrations can only enhance the progress of his first single.
At the present time, Richard and Karen are back at A & M studios again working on another album. They've already spent many long hours on it, but have a long way to go. When complete, it will be another gem.
Attention Car Buffs! You'll be interested to know the August issue of Motor Trend Magazine will feature an article and some photos of Richard's Chrysler 300 D convertible. The article is entitled Retrospect. The center of the magazine is a double page colored picture of the white beauty, plus some excellent black & white shots of the front & back interior, wheel, tailfin, engine, dash and 300 D insignia.
Since the last newsletter, there have been four cars added to Richard's collection. A 1963 Pontiac Grand Prix, a 1957 Jaguar XK-14O, 1978 Corvette and a 1961 Chrysler 300 D convertible. Karen has purchased a second car-a 1956 Thunderbird convertible. We don't think she has designs on attaining a vast collection like her brother!
Mom and Dad Carpenter entered Richard's 1957 Chrysler 300 C in Harrah's prestigious Car Show in Sparks, Nevada where it won first place in the Chrysler 300 C category. A proud Mom & Dad carried the beautiful sterling silver trophy back home to Downey, where it now rests among others on shelf in the music room.
Happy to report that on a recent special edition of American Top 40 countdown, featuring the Top 40 Artists of the 1970's, in accordance with the Billboard Magazine, Richard & Karen rated #4 which is no mean feat in the tough competitive world of music. Realizing that in April, 1979, they will have survived a decade in their chosen field, we are indeed mighty proud of our multi-talented idols.
Although the trip to Europe was very brief, Richard & Karen met some very nice people when they went to participate in the Star Parade t.v. show in Germany, and the Top Pop show in Holland, and enjoyed meeting their loyal fans from both countries. They were particularly delighted to meet the famous group Abba in Germany. The songs they recorded for the shows were Sweet, Sweet Smile and Top of The World, since which, Smile has become a hit in Europe.
There is room for just a few questions and answers as follows:
Q. Can we expect a new single in the near future?
A. Yes. Decision not concrete to-date, but it is a toss-up between Thank You for The Music or I Believe You.
Q. Is there any info on the next new album?
A. It is hoped to be completed by the fall. Some of the tracks include Little Girl Blue, When I Fall In Love & Dancing In The Street.
Q. When will B.L. Mitchell's album be completed?
A. Some time after the Carpenters two albums are finished.
Q. Have any other artists attended any of your Las Vegas shows this year?
A. Yes, Glen Campbell, John Davidson & Captain & Tennille.
Q. Are any overseas tours scheduled for the remainder of this year?
A. Discussions regarding possibilities are in progress, but nothing has been confirmed at this premature stage of same.
Q. Will the Christmas Album be released only in the USA or worldwide?
A. Indeed it will be released worldwide.
Richard and Karen are quite excited about their prospective 2 or 3 day trip to Nashville, Tennessee next week, where they will meet their friend Joe Osborne, check out the music scene, and record some tracks.
They feel very perturbed by the fact that they have found it impossible to tour Statewide for quite a time, but when you realize what they will have accomplished by the end of 1978, I'm sure you will understand why. They cannot provide us with so much beautiful music we expect of them, and which is very time consuming, as well as touring around the country. I know the end result of their upcoming albums will prove to be more than well worth the wait of seeing them 'live' in your cities.
Just received the exciting news that confirms Richard & Karen will be staging their own Christmas TV Special again this year(one more reason for their lack of appearances at your concert halls!) There is no info regarding their prospective guests at this stage. I will notify you as soon as it becomes available.
You may have seen the highway patrol commercials featuring Richard & Karen advising us all to 'Drive Carefully' & hope you heed same!
Rap in September EV.
Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #61 - September, 1978
Hi Fans:
We hope you have all had a happy and sure summer, and now cherish happy memories of a super vacation.
We're happy to announce Richard & Karen finally decided to take a short well deserved vacation. They spent a relaxing week in Hawaii (one or their favorite get-away places) soaking up the sun with their friend Olivia Newton-John. At departure time, Olivia went to Australia, and it was back to California for Richard & Karen, where they have resumed work on the new album. Their bronze skin will be a constant reminder for some time, of that brief but happy interlude.
Mom & Dad joined several friends for a two week cruise to Alaska. The cool weather there was quite a contrast to the heat they'd left behind at home. They were pleased they had packed warm clothes for the trip, especially when on-shore sight seeing took them to the edge of an enormous Alaskan glacier. Although they enjoyed the cruise, neither are lovers of cold climates, and were happy to return to the sunny skies and warmth of southern California.
A week later they were on their way to Salt Lake City, Utah to pick up another car for Richard's collection. The choice this time was another 1959 Chrysler 300 E Convertible. Thin brings his collection total to 82. The latest additions since the last newsletter are:
59 Plymouth Sports Fury Convertible
55 Chrysler C :300 Hardtop
63 Chrysler Imperial Crown Coupe Convertible
85 Chrysler Imperial Crown Coupe Convertible
84 Chrysler 300 x Hardtop
59 Chrysler 300 E Convertible
59 DeSoto Adventurer
Cars that are not in prime condition when Richard acquires them, are given a full beauty treatment. They are torn down completely, all parts cleaned, sanded and painted. Worn out parts and tires are replaced, all chrome parts re-chromed. The interior is re-upholstered, and the body painted to reveal a better than factory new model. Though most of the work is done by two full time mechanics, Richard enjoys helping whenever time permits.
Danny Woodhams, the group's bass player, had a close call recently when he was involved in an automobile accident. He and two friends were return home from a fishing trio when an intoxicated truck driver hit their car head on. Danny, riding in the front seat, was thrown against the windshield. His face and head were badly cut, and several teeth broken. Miraculously the only broken bones were several in his feet. Stitches were inserted from the top of his head to his collar bone. Although his bass playing has not been impaired, it will be a while before he will be able to sing, so Richard hired a tenor, Walt Harrah, to assist until Danny is in fit condition.
Wedding bells rang for Cubby O'Brien and airline stewardess Terri Lynn August 26th. They chose the beautiful setting of the Calabasas Inn for the marriage. We wish them many years of happiness together.
Doug Strawn and wife Nancy will soon be three. They anticipate the arrival of their first offspring about the middle of this month.
The Christmas album is ready for release, and scheduled to be on the market around October 6th. Peter Knight, the English conductor, has worked many long hours with Richard & Karen on this their first Christmas album, and the results should be nothing lass than perfection. The cover design is charming depicting a back view of Santa Claus painting a portrait of Richard & Karen resembling a Norman Rockwell painting and this should be a clue to the title: appropriately called Christmas Portrait.
As this latter goes to press, there is still no confirmation on title or release date of the next single.
The Christmas Special will be taped soon, and will also be entitled Christmas Portrait. Richard & Karen plan to invite Kristy & Jimmie McNichol as two of their guests, but no info on other prospective guests is available at this time. This will be confirmed in the November newsletter.
May we remind all students returning to school, that we have a supply of useful school items, such as pens, pencils, desk organizers, memo pads and book covers.
This would be a good opportunity also to remind all members wishing to purchase Carpenter keepsakes for Christmas gifts, to please order early. We cannot guarantee delivery before Christmas if order arrives after November 22 for U.S. fans, and October 22 for members outside the States.
A FEW ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS:
Q. Did Karen ever sing at a Grammy award event?
A. Yes. We've Only Just Begun in 1970, and Superstar in 1971.
Q. Which was your most overdubbed single?
A. Only Yesterday.
Q. Which was the most difficult single to make?
A. Calling Occupants and Goodbye To Love.
Q. Whose were the voices of the aliens on Calling Occupants?
A. All the voices were Richard's.
Q. Who wrote the intro for Christmas Song?
A. Mel Torme.
Q. Is it true you are to be guests on Kenny Rogers' Special?
A. Yes. Tentatively scheduled for the New Year.
Q. Have either Karen or Richard ever met Debbie Boone?
A. Yes. They have been friends of the Boone family for several years.
Q. Will you be making any appearances as guests in Love Boat or Fantasy Island?
A. Discussions are in progress now with possibility of Karen's appearance.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE REGARDING PROPOSED PEN PAL SCHEME
In response to many requests for pen pals we are happy to announce our intentions of meeting your requests. To enable us to maintain this scheme successfully, we must ask all interested members to fill out form at bottom of this page in PRINT please. USA fans please enclose stamped addressed return envelopes. Outside USA please send two International Reply Coupons. Allowing two months for our friends abroad to learn of our scheme. We anticipate exchanging forms early in the New Year. With your cooperation, we trust this new program will result in nationwide continued interest in the Carpenters, and be the foundation or numerous happy new friendships. It would very helpful for our filing system if all members mailing in form would kindly mark corner of envelope "P.P." - Thank you and Good Luck!
Rap in November. EV.
Hi Fans:
We hope you have all had a happy and sure summer, and now cherish happy memories of a super vacation.
We're happy to announce Richard & Karen finally decided to take a short well deserved vacation. They spent a relaxing week in Hawaii (one or their favorite get-away places) soaking up the sun with their friend Olivia Newton-John. At departure time, Olivia went to Australia, and it was back to California for Richard & Karen, where they have resumed work on the new album. Their bronze skin will be a constant reminder for some time, of that brief but happy interlude.
Mom & Dad joined several friends for a two week cruise to Alaska. The cool weather there was quite a contrast to the heat they'd left behind at home. They were pleased they had packed warm clothes for the trip, especially when on-shore sight seeing took them to the edge of an enormous Alaskan glacier. Although they enjoyed the cruise, neither are lovers of cold climates, and were happy to return to the sunny skies and warmth of southern California.
A week later they were on their way to Salt Lake City, Utah to pick up another car for Richard's collection. The choice this time was another 1959 Chrysler 300 E Convertible. Thin brings his collection total to 82. The latest additions since the last newsletter are:
59 Plymouth Sports Fury Convertible
55 Chrysler C :300 Hardtop
63 Chrysler Imperial Crown Coupe Convertible
85 Chrysler Imperial Crown Coupe Convertible
84 Chrysler 300 x Hardtop
59 Chrysler 300 E Convertible
59 DeSoto Adventurer
Cars that are not in prime condition when Richard acquires them, are given a full beauty treatment. They are torn down completely, all parts cleaned, sanded and painted. Worn out parts and tires are replaced, all chrome parts re-chromed. The interior is re-upholstered, and the body painted to reveal a better than factory new model. Though most of the work is done by two full time mechanics, Richard enjoys helping whenever time permits.
Danny Woodhams, the group's bass player, had a close call recently when he was involved in an automobile accident. He and two friends were return home from a fishing trio when an intoxicated truck driver hit their car head on. Danny, riding in the front seat, was thrown against the windshield. His face and head were badly cut, and several teeth broken. Miraculously the only broken bones were several in his feet. Stitches were inserted from the top of his head to his collar bone. Although his bass playing has not been impaired, it will be a while before he will be able to sing, so Richard hired a tenor, Walt Harrah, to assist until Danny is in fit condition.
Wedding bells rang for Cubby O'Brien and airline stewardess Terri Lynn August 26th. They chose the beautiful setting of the Calabasas Inn for the marriage. We wish them many years of happiness together.
Doug Strawn and wife Nancy will soon be three. They anticipate the arrival of their first offspring about the middle of this month.
The Christmas album is ready for release, and scheduled to be on the market around October 6th. Peter Knight, the English conductor, has worked many long hours with Richard & Karen on this their first Christmas album, and the results should be nothing lass than perfection. The cover design is charming depicting a back view of Santa Claus painting a portrait of Richard & Karen resembling a Norman Rockwell painting and this should be a clue to the title: appropriately called Christmas Portrait.
As this latter goes to press, there is still no confirmation on title or release date of the next single.
The Christmas Special will be taped soon, and will also be entitled Christmas Portrait. Richard & Karen plan to invite Kristy & Jimmie McNichol as two of their guests, but no info on other prospective guests is available at this time. This will be confirmed in the November newsletter.
May we remind all students returning to school, that we have a supply of useful school items, such as pens, pencils, desk organizers, memo pads and book covers.
This would be a good opportunity also to remind all members wishing to purchase Carpenter keepsakes for Christmas gifts, to please order early. We cannot guarantee delivery before Christmas if order arrives after November 22 for U.S. fans, and October 22 for members outside the States.
A FEW ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS:
Q. Did Karen ever sing at a Grammy award event?
A. Yes. We've Only Just Begun in 1970, and Superstar in 1971.
Q. Which was your most overdubbed single?
A. Only Yesterday.
Q. Which was the most difficult single to make?
A. Calling Occupants and Goodbye To Love.
Q. Whose were the voices of the aliens on Calling Occupants?
A. All the voices were Richard's.
Q. Who wrote the intro for Christmas Song?
A. Mel Torme.
Q. Is it true you are to be guests on Kenny Rogers' Special?
A. Yes. Tentatively scheduled for the New Year.
Q. Have either Karen or Richard ever met Debbie Boone?
A. Yes. They have been friends of the Boone family for several years.
Q. Will you be making any appearances as guests in Love Boat or Fantasy Island?
A. Discussions are in progress now with possibility of Karen's appearance.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE REGARDING PROPOSED PEN PAL SCHEME
In response to many requests for pen pals we are happy to announce our intentions of meeting your requests. To enable us to maintain this scheme successfully, we must ask all interested members to fill out form at bottom of this page in PRINT please. USA fans please enclose stamped addressed return envelopes. Outside USA please send two International Reply Coupons. Allowing two months for our friends abroad to learn of our scheme. We anticipate exchanging forms early in the New Year. With your cooperation, we trust this new program will result in nationwide continued interest in the Carpenters, and be the foundation or numerous happy new friendships. It would very helpful for our filing system if all members mailing in form would kindly mark corner of envelope "P.P." - Thank you and Good Luck!
Rap in November. EV.
Carpenters Fan Club Newsletter #62 - November, 1978
Hi Friends:
To prepare you for your concern when you see a strange signature at the conclusion of this letter, let me hasten to advise you Ev is fine. My name is Rosina, and I am very proud to have been associated with the Carpenters since 1975. and of course have been an ardent admirer since the group's inception.
Ev has more than a full time job now, coping with the abundance of paper work involved in logging Richard's ever expanding car collection, so I am very happy to relieve her of one of her many other duties. I will do my best to keep you as well informed on the Carpenters happenings as she has throughout the years.
Please be assured, her interest in the Carpenters and their ever faithful following will always remain "Close To You" in her heart.
Richard & Karen's Christmas gift to the world has been delivered to all record outlets worldwide. I guarantee Christmas Portrait will play a major part in making this your happiest Christmas, (I'd be willing to bet a few million tears will be jerked too!) It is almost impossible to find a suitable adjective to describe the album, but what a treasure to cherish among our Carpenters memorabilia.
The new single I Believe You / B'wana She No Home was released Oct.20th. A beautiful ballad previously recorded by Dorothy Moore, and given the superb treatment by our masters of beautiful music. This track will be featured on the new album some time in the New Year.
The taping of the upcoming Christmas T.V. Special is completed, and due to air Dec. l9th, but be sure to check your listings for confirmation. Guests include Georgia Engel, Gene Kelly, Christy & Jimmy McNichol, Peter Pit (the invisible guest), the group members, and Special guests none other than Mom & Dad Carpenter! They will not be performing, but will be seen among the guests attending the Christmas party in the show.
Richard's birthday was spent taping the special, so (typical of Karen) she planned a surprise celebration on the set. An enormous cake was wheeled on stage as the cast sang Happy Birthday. The cake was a work of art indeed decorations appropriately depicting a pianist at the piano, a conductor with raised baton, records, and a classic car. It was a brief but happy interlude on a busy and exacting working day.
On Dec. 3rd at 4:00 p.m. the Carpenters will join five choral groups and the Long Beach CA State Symphony Orchestra in the school's annual Winter Festival Concert, to be held at Long Beach Terrace Theater. Richard & Karen are delighted to announce a Carpenter Scholarship Fund will be established with the proceeds from the concert.
Danny wishes to convey his very grateful thanks for your concern regarding his accident. He is out of hospital now, but in rather poor shape. He will almost certainly have to endure plastic surgery later on.
On a happier note, Doug & Nancy are the proud parents of a healthy, normal baby daughter Meggen Elizabeth, born Oct. 1st.
A & M Records in London, England are compiling another singles album called Carpenters Singles 1974-1978 which they plan to release towards the end of this year. It is not known at this time if it will only be available in England, so please refrain from writing in about it until more information can be published in the next newsletter.
Karen's dog "Mush" became ill recently and had to undergo surgery for hysterectomy. Happy to report, patient is responding well to treatment (including tasty tid-bits). The tough part now is getting her back on her normal diet!
Richard, Karen and Mom & Dad attended a benefit concert at the Los Angeles Music Center Oct 30th in aid of the non-profit treatment center supporting emotionally disturbed children. This organization is chaired by Mrs. Jerry Weintraub, and sponsored by the Reiss-Davis Child Study Center. Richard is on the Music Advisory Committee, and Karen is also a committee member. We are very proud they, and many famous people in the music world support a very worthwhile project.
The Ford Roadster Model A which was a gift to Dad, won second place in a car show at Griswald, Claremont recently. Two more winners for Richard in the Walter P. Chrysler show at Santa Barbara. His 1956 Newport & 1975 Imperial both won first prize, for which he received very elegant trophies. It seems his car awards are competing with his music awards!
Almost forgot to mention Richard & Karen were recipients of two awards last month, given by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (better known as ASCAP). The awards were in recognition of the successful chart action of their single Sweet, Sweet Smile. (Producer and Artists).
The color photos from various specials etc have been so popular, so we are introducing a few sets from this year's Christmas special. Set #4a will be one pose of them with Mom & Dad, one of Karen in the kitchen, one of Richard in front of the tree singing Toyland, and a profile of Richard & Karen looking up and smiling. Set #4b will feature a close up of Karen, an outdoor snow scene of Richard at the piano, and a combined one of Karen singing Ava Maria in a candlelight setting, accompanied by Richard at the piano. We hope to have them available in a couple of weeks. Prices as before: $X.XX each for U.S. members, $X.XX each overseas.
The response to the proposed pen-pal scheme has teen phenomenal, but many of you forgot to enclose your stamped self addressed envelopes and International reply coupons. We must stress; only forms accompanied with these will receive attention. This is a big task involving much time and thought so we do ask for your cooperation, and thank you in anticipation of same. It would be advisable to enclose two stamped envelopes or four reply coupons you require pen-pals in more than one country.
The Carpenters will not be in concert this Christmas, so Richard, Karen, the group members and roadies look forward to spending a normal Christmas with their families and close friends. We all agree they deserve it.
Once again the Carpenter family, everyone connected with the group, Ev and the fanclub staff wish you and yours a very Merry, Safe & Blessed Christmas and extend very best wishes for a New Year of Happiness and Prosperity.
More news in 1979, Rosina.
<Previous
Hi Friends:
To prepare you for your concern when you see a strange signature at the conclusion of this letter, let me hasten to advise you Ev is fine. My name is Rosina, and I am very proud to have been associated with the Carpenters since 1975. and of course have been an ardent admirer since the group's inception.
Ev has more than a full time job now, coping with the abundance of paper work involved in logging Richard's ever expanding car collection, so I am very happy to relieve her of one of her many other duties. I will do my best to keep you as well informed on the Carpenters happenings as she has throughout the years.
Please be assured, her interest in the Carpenters and their ever faithful following will always remain "Close To You" in her heart.
Richard & Karen's Christmas gift to the world has been delivered to all record outlets worldwide. I guarantee Christmas Portrait will play a major part in making this your happiest Christmas, (I'd be willing to bet a few million tears will be jerked too!) It is almost impossible to find a suitable adjective to describe the album, but what a treasure to cherish among our Carpenters memorabilia.
The new single I Believe You / B'wana She No Home was released Oct.20th. A beautiful ballad previously recorded by Dorothy Moore, and given the superb treatment by our masters of beautiful music. This track will be featured on the new album some time in the New Year.
The taping of the upcoming Christmas T.V. Special is completed, and due to air Dec. l9th, but be sure to check your listings for confirmation. Guests include Georgia Engel, Gene Kelly, Christy & Jimmy McNichol, Peter Pit (the invisible guest), the group members, and Special guests none other than Mom & Dad Carpenter! They will not be performing, but will be seen among the guests attending the Christmas party in the show.
Richard's birthday was spent taping the special, so (typical of Karen) she planned a surprise celebration on the set. An enormous cake was wheeled on stage as the cast sang Happy Birthday. The cake was a work of art indeed decorations appropriately depicting a pianist at the piano, a conductor with raised baton, records, and a classic car. It was a brief but happy interlude on a busy and exacting working day.
On Dec. 3rd at 4:00 p.m. the Carpenters will join five choral groups and the Long Beach CA State Symphony Orchestra in the school's annual Winter Festival Concert, to be held at Long Beach Terrace Theater. Richard & Karen are delighted to announce a Carpenter Scholarship Fund will be established with the proceeds from the concert.
Danny wishes to convey his very grateful thanks for your concern regarding his accident. He is out of hospital now, but in rather poor shape. He will almost certainly have to endure plastic surgery later on.
On a happier note, Doug & Nancy are the proud parents of a healthy, normal baby daughter Meggen Elizabeth, born Oct. 1st.
A & M Records in London, England are compiling another singles album called Carpenters Singles 1974-1978 which they plan to release towards the end of this year. It is not known at this time if it will only be available in England, so please refrain from writing in about it until more information can be published in the next newsletter.
Karen's dog "Mush" became ill recently and had to undergo surgery for hysterectomy. Happy to report, patient is responding well to treatment (including tasty tid-bits). The tough part now is getting her back on her normal diet!
Richard, Karen and Mom & Dad attended a benefit concert at the Los Angeles Music Center Oct 30th in aid of the non-profit treatment center supporting emotionally disturbed children. This organization is chaired by Mrs. Jerry Weintraub, and sponsored by the Reiss-Davis Child Study Center. Richard is on the Music Advisory Committee, and Karen is also a committee member. We are very proud they, and many famous people in the music world support a very worthwhile project.
The Ford Roadster Model A which was a gift to Dad, won second place in a car show at Griswald, Claremont recently. Two more winners for Richard in the Walter P. Chrysler show at Santa Barbara. His 1956 Newport & 1975 Imperial both won first prize, for which he received very elegant trophies. It seems his car awards are competing with his music awards!
Almost forgot to mention Richard & Karen were recipients of two awards last month, given by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (better known as ASCAP). The awards were in recognition of the successful chart action of their single Sweet, Sweet Smile. (Producer and Artists).
The color photos from various specials etc have been so popular, so we are introducing a few sets from this year's Christmas special. Set #4a will be one pose of them with Mom & Dad, one of Karen in the kitchen, one of Richard in front of the tree singing Toyland, and a profile of Richard & Karen looking up and smiling. Set #4b will feature a close up of Karen, an outdoor snow scene of Richard at the piano, and a combined one of Karen singing Ava Maria in a candlelight setting, accompanied by Richard at the piano. We hope to have them available in a couple of weeks. Prices as before: $X.XX each for U.S. members, $X.XX each overseas.
The response to the proposed pen-pal scheme has teen phenomenal, but many of you forgot to enclose your stamped self addressed envelopes and International reply coupons. We must stress; only forms accompanied with these will receive attention. This is a big task involving much time and thought so we do ask for your cooperation, and thank you in anticipation of same. It would be advisable to enclose two stamped envelopes or four reply coupons you require pen-pals in more than one country.
The Carpenters will not be in concert this Christmas, so Richard, Karen, the group members and roadies look forward to spending a normal Christmas with their families and close friends. We all agree they deserve it.
Once again the Carpenter family, everyone connected with the group, Ev and the fanclub staff wish you and yours a very Merry, Safe & Blessed Christmas and extend very best wishes for a New Year of Happiness and Prosperity.
More news in 1979, Rosina.
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This page last updated March 2, 2010.