Hello to all my Beatle Family...Barry & I are visiting the city of Rock n Roll....spending some family time with our very dear friends Carol & Bill Ponikvar. We all would like to extend our wishes for a happy, safe, rockin' 4th of July....we're having a buca' right now....a toast to the good times we have shared with each other....and everyone we have spent time with at AROTR. PEACE, LOVE & HAPPINESS TO ALL!!!!!

Hope everyone's summer is going well.

Regarding the speakers being too loud at AROTR...
It is necessary to have them loud in order to get the sound to travel to the back of the lawn. Everyone needs to buy hearing protection and bring it with them to rock concerts. Buy it RIGHT NOW so that you have it when you need it. See my blog under "AROTR-Don't forget to bring Protection" for recommendations for brands, web sites, etc.

http://rob-from-cinci.livejournal.com/

Regarding smoking...
It bums me out too, but the festival is in Kentucky and the state makes alot of money on tobacco so there aren't as many restrictions as in other states. Smokers in KY aren't used to as many restrictions as smokers in other states are.

Regarding MJ...
I recognize his contributions to music and pop culture, but I think the child molestation charges sort of leaves alot of people ambivalent (or negative) on him in general.

edited
He wasn't ever convicted (one suit was settled out of court for big bucks and he was acquited of another one). I guess we should assume he was innocent just like we are supposed to assume that OJ was innocent.

In spite of this, I'm not going to celebrate OJs life when he dies, even though he was pretty good at football.

-rob

All you Chicago AROTR folks. Got an e-mail from The Trouble With Boys, they will be playing Sat. at noon Taste of Chicago.

Off to see The Rigbys tonight. Hope you have Beatles music in your air!
Thursday, July 2, 2009; The Rigbys; The Summit Music and Arts festival; 4300 Summit Plaza Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40241; 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
And: Eight Days a Week informs that they are performing in Wilmore, Kentucky, on July 4, 2009, and that their schedule for other events is located at: http://www.eightdaysaweekband.com/Schedule2009.htm

Off to see The Rigbys tonight. Hope you have Beatles music in your air!
Thursday, July 2, 2009; The Rigbys; The Summit Music and Arts festival; 4300 Summit Plaza Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40241; 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
And: Eight Days a Week informs that they are performing in Wilmore, Kentucky, on July 4, 2009, and that their schedule for other events is located at: http://www.eightdaysaweekband.com/Schedule2009.htm

Thank you Gary for posting the AMAZING video of Neil & Paul! Today is our nation's 142nd birthday! What a perfect present to receive the morning of CANADA DAY.We Canadians love The Beatles & tend to approach their music in a unique way. Happy Canada Day Neil and to AROTR's fellow Canuck, Hal Bruce. All You Need Is Love.

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Jackson. I really have no issues with him other than the fact that Paul (as well as I) is unhappy with how he was able to get the rights to most of the Beatles catalog. Whether or not this accounts for his unique behavior as an adult, parents need to realize even more the consequences that their words and actions have on their young children. I remember to this day words and statements that my father made when I was a child that hurt me so deeply.

Who cares who owns the Beatles songs - actually the Beatles themselves care, and that is fine with me.

Even though it has been a number of weeks, I feel like AROTR just happened yesterday.

The Abbey Road Supersized show was amazing! I was happy that I could be as close to the sound system, without a barrier, if I wanted to. And I chose to be within 30 feet of the stage - unfortunately it was very close to the left speaker. I didn’t know how painfully loud it was to going be until the band began to play. At that time I did have a possible option, not to move back, but to leave the entire area. You see, there was a solid wall and I mean a solid very large wall of people surrounding me. No one would have heard me say excuse me, and if I tried to leave there was no space to move. Yes I could have pushed people aside. Yes I should have brought ear plugs. Could the sound level of the speakers been reduced? Sure. And the folks standing way in the back near the edge of the lawn would have still heard the band clearly. Could the area around the speaker be roped off? Why not? I am sorry that a previous poster has trouble believing this. I think if his ears felt like mine even three days afterwards he would change his mind. The decibel level was at the threshold of pain my friend.

SECOND HAND SMOKE, WHETHER OUTDOORS OR INDOORS, IS STILL DEADLY.

I understand that the band American English donated a guitar to the benefit for Isabelle's family. American English is one of my favorite bands and I hope someday they return to AROTR. Kudos to them.

I had a blast at AROTR and I am sure I will be there again next year! It IS a shame that we have to wait so long until then. Where there is LOVE – I’ll be there.

July already! Where does the time go?!Seems like after AROTR it's winter already!This is a FANtastic page with the cool videos, pic links, endless stories,,,bitter/sweet in spots but filled with every possible human emotion! Had foot surgery yesterday and will be offline for awhile but wanted to be the first to wish my Dear Friend and Beatle Expert, Mr. Bruce Spizer a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! we share the same day and last year had a blast!! "You say it's your Birthday,,,It's MY Birthday too yeah..."! Lori from Cincy, had fun with you too and Happy B-Day also to your daughter! Debbi n Miss R&R, yours is soon too so CHEERS also! Congrats Steph and my Michelle for the Paul tix! And Jukebox,,Lori is right! wink No need to be sensitive,, EVERYBODY LOVES YOU! Carol P., I hope you are doing well, and Debbi, GREAT NEWS on the successful tribute for Izy and Chloe. If I didn't need surgery I would have been there but contributed directly to Greg. I heard Jorie Gracen n Mario of Chgo's PONDHAWKS Rocked the house too! Yes Beatle People are The BEST! Dave from Unionjack,,we have to exchange Emails as I am personal friends with many "Southern Rock" Bands and I have Beatle stories from them going 'full circle'! Yes Artemus was on the plane with Gary R,,incredible, Yes It Is!! Welcome aboard "JAKE",, we need some fresh input! wink And a sad week in "Star Land" but we are all Stars in our AROTR Family so the loss of ours and their loved ones have intense impact as well. Have a safe 4th, AMERICA's Celebration and to ALL who are fighting for or have fought for US to be Free to Come Together, have fun, and even "meet Here",, God Bless. To all of our personal loved ones fighting for their lives with a battle from disease, and those gone but not forgotten,,,(my wish list)...."I WANT YOU BACK......" I now sign off with My radio name "penned" from a best friend and DJ Red Muldoon who "left us" May 10th. All Chgo peeps here, knew him too, especially the bands. Thanks again GJ. Sincere Peace & Love ~Susie "LEW"

"Jake",
This is great news to hear that you have promised that Neil and Paul will be at the 2010 AROTR on the Lawn Stage! (Or am I thinking about your "promise" that there will be an upcoming concert in Cleveland?) Just kidding!
Seriously... great video! Thanks for sharing it with us. I looped it so I can see and hear it every day until next year's AROTR. I have never seen so many broken strings on a Les Paul before!
Can't wait to see everyone in Louisville (?) next year. I also can't wait until it's all confirmed so we can schedule our vacation before someone who we work with does!
Thanks for everything, Gary (oops... Jake)

Mike (and Cindy)

THANK YOU !!!!!
The Benefit for Isabelle was a huge success! We raised over $3,500.00 just on Sunday alone. (add in all the gift cards and donations sent directy to Greg, Chloe, & Izy's family and you see what I mean)
Thank you to all the musicians..Strawberry Fields Forever (Paul Lynch's John Lennon tribute band featuring James Paul Lynch, Sabrina Lynch, Jim Lynch Sr., David Malloy and Dave "magic keys" Zenner) Eric Howell, Joe Orlando and Bell Lio of the Cryers, Mark Eskin and Bob Blider of Instant Karma, Phil Angotti, Al Wagner, Jim Irizarry and Paul Lynch (again)of Cavern Beat, Robert John Graham and Suz Martin and Sabrina Lynch (again)of Cavern Kittens. Talk about your super group, there were harmonies to make the angels jealous!!! (my apologizes if I have forgotten anyone) The night was truly magic!! With all the incredible talent in that room, I know Isabelle was looking down from Heaven (maybe even with John & George).

Big HUGE thank you to Sabrina for all she did on both sides of the drum kit, Gary Jacob for the all the help & support, & force behind the music fund for Chloe, "da girlz" for the donations given to me during AROTR, Marty & Not Fade Away Gallery (bidding was intense!), those who came & donated the great baby stuff, (we totally filled 2 vans!) Grace the Raffle queen you truly are the amazing Grace and to all my AROTR family for the love & prayers... Beatles people really are the best!

Heriberto: You and the rest of Jukebox are the most down-to- earth group of guys I ever met {and sexy too} Rock on wherever you are!

Gary, thanks for posting the video! Very cool!

MissRocknRoll, congratulations on scoring the Fenway Tix! I saw Springsteen there, it was so much fun! Wish I could make the August shows...

I thought I'd share an interesting story from this weekend. UnionJack was scheduled to play the Fireworks Celebration in Easthampton Mass. We were sharing the bill with the Lynyrd Skynyrd Experience, a great Skynyrd Tribute. Come to find out that Skynyrd Drummer Artemus Pyle is there and sitting in with the band. (Yeah, he was on that plane).

I am setting up my kit prior to sound check and we strike up a conversation. I am wearing my Cavern T-Shirt and we start talking about the whole Matthew Street scene in Liverpool. Artemus tells me about the trip that he took to Liverpool to the Cavern with Gary Rossington, and how they went to all of the "tourist stops" and took the tours, and how they had to go there to check it out.

It still amazes me to think of the influence on an entire generation of musicians these four guys from England had. Anyway, best wishes to all of the AROTR family for a great 4th of July Weekend!

Have a great time and please be safe!

All the best!

UnionJack British Invasion Band

ABBEY ROAD ON THE RIVER GUESTBOOK: The next BEST thing to being 'here there and everywhere'!

Neil and Paul

a friend told me to put on some good headphones and enjoy..grabbed the BOSE I don't use enough..and I'm still listening..

I loved:
1. Gary and his people who put this thing together every year.
2. Every single band, person, duo, trio, etc., who shared their musical talent with us.
3. The $5.00 beer (no... I didn't get a Blue Moon, $3.00 water, food, etc.
4. The fact that I could be as close to the sound system, without a barrier, as I wanted to. (I knew if it was too loud, I had the option to move back... couldn't believe that posting)!
5. All the smokers, realizing that I was outdoors and probably absorbed more carcinogens traveling there than I could have on site.
6. The usual view from our room.
7. Spending time with new friends like Dirk, Peter, Klaus and Max from The BeaFore at pool-side in the evening.
8. Spending time with great friends like Kelly and Tom (God... we miss you guys!)
9. Paying all the taxes on the room for each day, parking, etc. Who cares!!!!
10. The $40.00 voucher from the Galt House and their wonderful service (THANKS!!!!).
11. Being at every AROTR except one in 05/'06 when our baby girl was born.
12. Being there with Cindy... a true Beatle person and my love.
13. Everything that AROTR is.
14. I'm sure there is more I love about this wonderful event.
I hate:
1. The fact that it is so long until it all happens again!

In other words... All You Need Is Love.

Peace, people.

Today is a good day.....I scored 2 tickets to Paul McCartney's show at Fenway Park in August!!! I will bring my beautiful daughter Michelle...and we will "ROCK" Fenway Park to the top of the Green Monster!!!
Life is good!!! My love to everyone who shares this website...and especially to all the people that could not be at AROTR this year...you all were there....in spirit and in our hearts!!!!!!
peace everybody.....Stephanie B.

Eight Days A Week had a few folks introduce themselves to us this past Friday night in Hamilton and say they heard about the show through this guestbook. AROTR just keeps giving back (and people say we're not compensated for playing - BS - the compensation never stops!) Thanks Mr Jacob -
Gary & 8DAW

I'm on this board all the time and I've never read anything but praise about Jukebox and people just sad that they weren't coming, but everything I hear is praise for them. It's always sad when someone dies, however as far as discussing mj more on here for his music, I think his legacy is being way overblown, I mean how many best selling albums did the man have? 2 or 3 at the most - sorry for his passing, and he certainly was successful but people please stop mentioning his name with The Beatles and Elvis.

very sorry to hear the passing of so many tallented people. Isabelle of the Cavern Kittens,
Michael Jackson, Farah, the lead singer for the Seeds, all contributed so much. the Cavern Kittens
were one of the groups i saw the first year i came to arotr. they were very good. the one thing we have with death is the ability to remember the great music and the way these people entertained.
long live the music and long live arotr.

for the editor: i forgot to mention that Miss Yamel exists, she is the president of our fan club and she and her grandmother travels almost every time we play out of our country, both of them had been at AROTR every time we went, buying the best tickets and a lot of beatle merchandise, if you don't believe me you can visit our web site( www.jukebox-beatles.com ) and check the AROTR pictures for those 3 years and you can see her, it is a drag your actitude sir

Editor: again, very sorry for the misunderstanding. We have and have never had any problem with The Jukebox. How could we? They are sensational people, beautiful souls, and always made Abbey Rd better for their presence. And, it is a fact, that many of their friends and family supported the event by buying tickets, every year, and we really appreciated that. Earlier, I commented that the name Miss Yamel seemed made up...these things happen on the internet. Clearly, in this case, I was wrong, and it wasn't made up. But, let's not turn this into a feud where none exists. All is good..we love the boys from the 51st state, and their fan club, too. The prima donna remark had nothing to do with them, although I see how they may have inferred from my post, I was speaking at them. The band I was speaking at was a hybrid invention of a few who qualify for that imprimatur I have met in 30 years of music festival and concert producing. Believe me, it cuts both ways..the bands know some prima donna producers..one could be writing this post. Amen

this is for the editor from me: First thanks to all the beatle fans that attends AROTR for all the support the past 4 years, we decline the invitation this year because we do have work down here in PR almost every weekend(thank God for that), and that doesn't mean that we are prima donnas like you say, we are profesional musicians and you should show some respect about that, if we couldn't make it this year it doesn't mean that we didn't want to go, btw we've been in different countries like Liverpool, Argentina, EUA, etc., and always have great response from the public, even playing extra hours at your fest like the lobby jams to have some fun and entertain the public until 5 or 6 am every single night we were there, problably thats why the public have been asking for us, if we were prima donnas like you say people weren't asking for us, and yes , i missed AROTR too because we made a lot of friends up there, sorry that we are a busy band

Editor loves the jukebox. Never meant to imply anything other than they weRe asked to return and they couldn't. We reget any member thinking we had a poor opinion of them. We do not at all. We get it when bands can't make the trip

I am surprised there are no conversations here about MJ.

Regardless how you feel about his appearance, or implied lifestyle, he, like The Beatles and Elvis absolutely changed the world.

Socially, politically, economically; he broke every ceiling, every rule.

But, most importantly, it was his art. And, in the end, besides Love, it is always Art.

Spend the next few days watching his videos from Little Michael thru the more recent, and you come away seeing perhaps the best dancer, choreographer, singer, and filmmaker of his time.

He authored and defined the entire genre.

As for the copyrights, blah, blah, blah, who cares who owns the Beatles songs?

I sure don’t…as long as we can hear it every day, then they belong to all of us.

Let the dealmakers play in that arena; it has nothing to do with us.

Oh, and let’s not forget the rest of the family. America has produced Fords, Rockefellers, Bushes, and Kennedys. But the Jackson dynasty is just as much a part of our common history.

And to those of us who grew up with The Beatles, I’m glad our kids grew up on the art of MJ. At his best, he was something else. At his worst, I don’t know..I don’t care. We Are The World!

And, we here in AROTR Central will be rockin' on the River with the Rigbys, first tonight at the Jeffersonville Amphitheater and tomorrow in New Castle, Kentucky, at the Smith Berry Winery. More venues/dates are on my distribution elist. If you wish me to add you, please send me your name, email, address and phones to oamfuchs@aye.net Come together, Olivia Anne

The doggone girl is mine.

On an up-note; To Harold from Hamilton and all the other Cincinnati based Beatle fans in Cincy, Eight Days A Week will be at Bridgewater Falls Mall tonight Friday 06/26/2009 @ 6PM - 8PM in Hamilton, Ohio. Lets celebrate life together.

Life is hard, being born into the world, getting out , and all that is in- between. My mom said that. She passed away on June 4 after being ill for almost 5 months. Although a realist, she was a person who loved to learn, to be challenged, to take risks. She loved life and all that it had to offer. Even in her last days, she asked to see the 6 0'clock news so she could see the weather forecast. My mother was an inspiration to me and the many people she influenced along the way---and she did it in a humble and quiet way ---through her 30 years as a nurse and her 28 years as a member of AA. She also was a true supporter of AROTR and The Beatles---cutting out articles about Beatle band and events so I would be informed. Enough about my mom, however. I just want to give a big hug to all my friends who have shared their sympathy in any way---all my Cleveland Beatle friends, Stephanie, Michele, Susie, and Gary.Also another "Thanks " to Tom in Cincinnati for his thoughtful condolences. Peace You all are so special to me and I am very grateful to have you in my life. I also want to express my sorrow and sympathy for the family and loved ones of Isabelle, Farrrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson. May they rest in peace.

She also received a degree from "McGill" University. (more Beatle irony)

Isabelle passed on Paul Mc's birthday.
God Bless.

Any info on the Scranton AROTR 2010?

editor: nope...we are pursuing other markets, scranton is not one of them

While not an annual performer at AROTR, the excitement Isabelle and The Cavern Kittens brought to AROTR back in 2006-7 was tremendous. This is a sad story, and we know her friends and family are grieving deeply. We join in sending our profound sympathies.

We started a little music education fund for her daughter. If you think you want to add to it, or make a donation, in general, to help her baby (Chloe), contact Sabrina Lynch at sabrina.lynch@yahoo.com

chicagotribune.com

ISABELLE BELANCE 1958-2009

Isabelle Belance, 1958-2009: Member of all-female Beatles tribute band

Cavern Kittens played at famed club in Liverpool

By Trevor Jensen
Tribune reporter
June 24, 2009
Last August, Isabelle Belance stood onstage at the world-renowned Cavern Club in Liverpool, England, belting out Beatles songs with her band, the Cavern Kittens.

Performing where the Fab Four made their early mark was a huge kick for Ms. Belance, a classically trained pianist who taught music at Harold Washington College in the Loop.

She got an even bigger thrill a few months later when she found she was pregnant, a welcome gift as she turned 50.

Six months into her pregnancy, she was diagnosed with cancer. She underwent treatment that doctors assured would not affect the child, and in May gave birth to a daughter, Chloe, premature and tiny, but healthy.

For several weeks, mother and daughter were both in Evanston Hospital. In the midst of a "hellish experience" fighting cancer, Ms. Belance found respite in a daily visit with her newborn, said her husband, Greg King.

More recently, mother and daughter came home.

"She looked forward to seeing that baby, all the way to the end," King said.

Ms. Belance, 50, died of cancer Thursday, June 18, at her home in Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood, said King, a former anchor with radio stations WBEZ-FM and WMAQ-AM.

A vivacious musician and teacher, Ms. Belance joined the faculty at Harold Washington in August 2003, having previously taught for several years at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

"She was a great teacher, her attention to detail, her commitment to her students," said Matt Shevitz, music program coordinator at Harold Washington. "She liked a lot of different styles of music."

Born in Haiti, Ms. Belance was the daughter of Rene Belance, who was a well-known Haitian poet. Her mother was a French-Canadian who had come to the island nation to explore an interest in Haitian poetry, King said.

In 1960, political unrest led the family to leave Haiti. Ms. Belance's mother took her and three sons to Quebec City, while her father taught in the U.S. When she was 10, she joined him in New England after her mother died.

She studied piano from a young age, and received a bachelor's degree in music from McGill University in Montreal along with a licentiate in piano performance. A fellowship brought her to Duke University, where she earned a master's degree in music.

In Chicago, she played chamber music with a trio and took a Beatles ensemble class at the Old Town School of Folk Music. She hooked up with the Cavern Kittens at the end of 2006.

She had to learn the guitar, but with her musical background she became a proficient lead player in short order, said Sabrina Lynch, the band's drummer and leader. Her commitment extended to buying an Epiphone Casino guitar, the model once played by George Harrison.

"She was not as knowledgeable [about the Beatles] as Sabrina and I. But she was very enthusiastic and just bursting with energy about the whole thing," said Suzanne Magerlein, the band's bass player.

The Cavern Kittens played at Chicago venues including the Elbo Room and Martyrs and at a Beatles Festival in Louisville. Nothing touched the invitation to play during International Beatle Week in Liverpool.

"That was it, that was the height of it," Lynch said. "I mean, she knew how to play Bach, and here she was playing '[I Want to] Hold Your Hand' on a stage in Liverpool, and just loving it."

She and King married in October, and she told friends she was pregnant a few months later.

"I could see the excitement in her eyes," Shevitz said. "I remember how excited she was when she found it was a girl and started thinking about names."

Ms. Belance is also survived by three brothers, Jacques, Michel and Pierre.

Services are set for 7 p.m. Saturday in Unity Church, 1925 W. Thome Ave., Chicago.

I had a lot of fun at AROTR. I wish there was more of it! Hey, Gary, after monday, why don't you pick something for tuesday and send us home on wednesday?
(Mark's exact words)

Hi AROTR Family! A lot of reading and catching up to do as I missed this highly anticipated annual event last minute due to "life getting in the way while making other plans"! First of all: My condolences to Carol Ponikvar for the loss of her Mother. I once missed a Cleveland Beatle event due to the loss of mine, and last year missed AROTR due to being at my Dad's bedside a whole summer before he passed.(And speaking of Cleveland,,we should just move on from any hopes of gathering there. The town doesn't "get It"!) I come here today with a heavy heart but let me get the fun stuff celebrated, then, upward and onward. To my Chicago friends attending and performing at AROTR,, you are the BEST and I'm sorry to have missed you but have "caught up" in Chicago. Brit Beat you are ama'zen' and am SO proud of you and your long and winding road! To JAY from IK,,is there a better solo John I ask??? But now, you have floored me with JAGGER! Dude you ROCK! And the other boyz in the video wern't too shabby either! To Debbi Smith, photographer extraordinaire: Love your pics,,nobody captures the band's moments better. Especially your takes on SSG!! heehee *wink* To all who take pics, they are all great but it would be nice to see more "Fans in Action" if you know what I mean! Now, in regards to my heavy heart today,, if you view DEBBI SMITH's pics from AROTR 2007, please go to the 22nd picture. It is of a young extremely talented lady named Isabelle who played with THE CAVERN KITTENS that year at the fun and "intimate pool stage". She a very close friend of Drummer Sabrina and wife of Paul Lynch and if you know them and can contact them you will learn more info, however I feel it should be mentioned here that she has tragically passed away due to Cancer which was discovered while pregnant with Baby Chloe who was prematurely born at 7 mths due to Isabelle's illness. She will be missed as will her SMILE that literally (like Brooke Jacobs) could light up a room. More info and GB memorial signing can be found on FACEBOOK, under "FRIENDS OF ISABELLE" along with info on a Memorial Service Saturday and Benefit Show Sunday at The Beacon Tap in DesPlaines, Ill outside of Chgo. Performances by Paul and Sabrina's "Strawberry Fields Forever", and Guitarist and Talent Extraordinaire: Eric Howell. Please take a moment to view her pic by Debbi and you will remember THE CAVERN KITTENS Bright and Cheery performance by the pool! AND remember to HUG, KISS, family and friends daily, Because "TOMORROW NEVER KNOWS". Have a great summer my friends and you are ALL in my thoughts and prayers daily. Miss Rock and Roll, and Milwaukee Patty, I really missed you this year, but will see ya down the road. Thanks again GJ! Especially for this platform. Your Friend ~Susie Lew

editor: tragic news about Isabelle..a world with no rhyme or reason...we knew she was quite ill, but ...well, words are useless.

Kevin,
Enjoyed your pictures. This is the one who you got a picture of in the Abbey Road dress I made. Brandon and I are from Milford, OH. Great pictures!! Thanks for sharing.

Well it was another fun year at AROTR. It was great to see our friends again: Phil, Melissa, Irene, Peter and Judy, Fred (we missed Nancy, though), Hal, Ben and Ramona, Peter Seel, Nancy and Michael, Stephanie and Barry, Lola and John, Lisa Pasquale and of course, The Beatrips.
To Erine Sato, thank you so much for looking after us and our Japanese family. Anatawa yasashii hito desu. To Gary Jacobs and your whole crew, thanks so much for all your hard work. It is the most fun we have all year.

WE HAD A BALL!!!...this was our second...
we took a "Gazillion Pictures...
peep our PHOTO ALBUM!!! Kevin_Debi_flickers

Thanks and a to these guestbookers:
t - for posting the Jumpin' Jack Flash video.
Peter Conrad, for the info on TBB videos and the BTF site for more band vids.
GaryJ, for posting the video of the unrehearsed set with Ralf, Mario, Hal and Scott.
Photo dept, for the list of links.
All photographers, for posting all the photos.
Press office and Drew Sykes, for the Stan-Mandy article link.
Peter Seel, for the great post on behalf of Lucy In The Sky!
GaryJ, for inviting Lucy In The Sky back!
Whew!

Lucy In The Sky just wanted to post a BIG thank you to everyone that has attended the festival and to all of the musicians that we were able to hang out with and listen to this year.It has been again a great pleasure to play at "Abbey Road On The River" - and the people there welcomed us so warmly - as always! Many greetings from Germany to everybody! Especially to Chris and Phyllis, Bill and Ronda, Janine, Allie and Maggie, Cindi (and her grandson ), Debbi, Melanie, "Miss Rock'n'Roll" Stephanie, Susan, the Beatles Gal, the Quilt Girls, Olivia Anne Morris Fuchs, Jennifer, Jane & Jackie, Gayle and her niece and ....sorry, if I have missed someone.
Many thanks to Gary´s team: Erine, Myron, Brooke and last but not least big boss Gary Jacob. And of course special greetings to Bruce Cohn of the Sun Kings, Dirk, Peter & Co. from the BeaFore, Hal Bruce, the Norwegian Beatles“, the Repeatles, Jay and the bassplayer of Instant Karma, the fabulous Beatrips and the Backwards – sorry again if I have missed someone!

Thanks again, Gary, for including us again in AROTR!!

We all had a real good time and hope to see you next year!

Dirk, Robin, Bernd and Peter
Lucy In The Sky

P.S. Feel free to befriend us on myspace

Editor : without hesitation, we invite you back (for many years, we hope)....everyone loves Lucy In The Sky!

Hey everybody!

My name's Drew Sykes, and this was my first AROTR! I was lucky enough to go up with Mandie Bullock and Wonderwall, and it was GREAT!

I'd been hearing about it for a while, through stories, pics, and vids, but none of that really did it any justice until I got to EXPERIENCE everything. I've always had an appreciation for the Beatles (they transitioned my musical taste when I was a kid from things like the "Ghostbusters" soundtrack to REAL music), and the festival increased this even more.

Outside of the music, I loved coming in and meeting SO many different people from all over the WORLD! It was like a giant family, and the best part was that no one had any motives or agenda. Everybody was there for the MUSIC and the feeling it created, which is obviously hard to put into words.

Getting to see so many skilled acts was great as well, but I've got to give a shoutout to Ian and WINGSBANNED as one of my faves, as well as THE BACKWARDS from Slovokia. Not only were they very talented, but they were also really laid back and cool people.

And of COURSE, WONDERWALL's "ACROSS THE UNIVERSE". Don't call me biased because I went with them, because they were GREAT! It was nice getting to hear the soundtrack on the live stage, and refreshing hearing female vocals take over for a while. You've also gotta love the change in pace of the songs, because while they stay pretty true to the originals, it's enough of a difference to mix things up.

And speaking of Wonderwall, I put a little bug in the ear of a local reporter I know a while back, and he published an article on the daughter/father duo from the band of Mandie and Stan Bullock for Father's Day today! It's very well-written, and it talks about their experience in AROTR!

Check it out: http://www.news-record.com/content/2009/06/20/article/for_daughter_dad_beatles_bridge_a_gap

Also, a Podcast of the two singing:



Pretty cool, eh? Eh?

Anyway, Abbey Road was an AMAZING experience, and I definitely look forward to coming back and rocking out next year! I already miss my new "family" like crazy, but I know I'll see y'all again!

Havent had a chance to post since Abbey Road, but will soon. I just want to wish everyone a Happy Fathers Day. I want to thank my Son, without whos help AROTR wouldnt have been possable this year. It was better than ever. The concerts at The Vernon Club were Fantastic. My wife and I were celebrating 30 years married that night. To my wife I want to say Thank You for putting up with me. Its been the Best. Last, Thank you Gary Jacob For the Best AROTR ever. It might be hard to top. More soon Have a great Fathers Day Everyone. Peace

Editor: Damn good Father's Day, ain't it.....damn good

Read a great Father's Day story on Stan and Amanda

AROTR: bringing families together

Stan_Mandy

Nice, huh?

and don't miss them singing and talking...she could be the next Dolly P

compilation of some fan photo sites

Debbi_Imagine


Janine's_Pix (password: vader)


Susan_Beal's_Annual_Photo_Retrospect



Denise_from_Milford's_award_winning_pix



Donna's_Pix

There must be 1,000 or more videos from this year's AROTR now on you tube and other sites. Here is one that in a few minutes shows the caliber of extraordianary musicians assembled at AROTR. 2 from Canada, 1 from Nashville via Sao Paulo, and 1 from Germany, playing an unrehearsed set.

Concert Alert (not Beatles, but still cool...)
There is a nationally recognized Led Zeppelin tribute band playing with the Indianapolis Symphony Thursday June 25 (in Indianapolis). See the website:
http://themusicofledzeppelin.com/

It is a great show. The singer and guitar player are amazing. Seeing Kashmir done with a full symphony is really something special.

This is well worth a couple hours of driving.

Have a great summer,

Rob

Attention to all who are looking for some AROTR 2009 videos.
Thanks to AROTR's very own, "Beatles Tribute Fanz", the TRAVELING BEATLEBURYS finally have some videos on YouTube, and "BTF" has even more AROTR band videos posted on her very Fab site. Check `em out & enjoy!!

http://www.youtube.com/beatletributefanz1

~ Peace, Love & Handle With Care ~

Gary, when will this year's pictures be posted on this website? I enjoy youtube but still there should be pics on AROTR website. The strawberries are from a couple of years ago.

editor: homework? dude is on vacation...see you in september

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAUL - Birthday!!!! Did you have a party-party? You look great!

It never fails to amaze me after several weeks the number of peole still writing and rewriting in the the guestbook section. I have been quite busy and just haven't had the opportunity to sit and compose a letter. It's really great to read all the wonderful comments everyone made and how expressive their words are. There's nothing left for me to say except that I can't wait for the next AROTR. I love it all and special thanks to Gary for making it an annual event. I set my watch and calendar to AROTR. Haven't missed one yet. My daughter and grandson couldn't make it this year so that meant I had to spend more time with my husband which meant I couldn't be up front at the stages. It still was great but I would rather been dancin'. I spent some time by myself and hooked up with old friends but with the event getting bigger each year its harder to spot long time friends. I wasn't even able to make it to the guestbook reunion because of my hubby. I sure hope my daughter doesn't have to miss next year. There's so much to see and it hard to pick which show I want to see more, my old time favorites groups and then some new acts which will be added to my next year must see again. With teaching school its hard to get off more than one day so it a Friday to Monday event for us. The drive is 7 hours and again with having to stop becaues of hubby it sometimes takes longer. Maybe I'll leave him at home next year. He likes the groups that have been around for several years and doesn't like to always try some of the newer shows. He also likes the relaxing time in the hotel suite. It's nice but I rather be outside listening and watching the groups. Probably my only complaint was the weather. It was a cooler yet very comfortable time. I however am a sun worshiper. Luckilly I went in the tanning bed a few times. Besides teaching I own a hair and tanning salon. I enjoyed everyone photos. I was so glad my frinds Nancy and Ben won some neat things this year. They are true troopers and not only carry on the Beatle spirit but are the embelishment of friendship to everyone they meet. Again to all... my peace and love.

This was the 1st year since 2005 we didnt see Jim Morris. So glad to hear he's doing ok. Wish Brandon and I could've seen him Saturday. Tell him we're all thinking of him and miss him deeply.
Denise from Milford

"Jim Morris"....everybody's favorite security guard is doing allright....we made a phone call and he showed up Saturday night on the main lawn...bought Instant Karma's cd....and then we moved the party into the ballroom....sending Jim home at midnight...to get his beauty sleep!!!!! This man was humbled by the love we have for him...I don't know why....it's AROTR!!!!...PEACE, LOVE, HAPPINESS, SUNSHINE, SMILES, MUSIC, MUSIC....AND MORE BEATLES MUSIC!!!!!..oh yeah....and SAMBUCA!!!!! Thanks to everyone who shared my bottle with me on Monday Night at the all night PA---H---TY!!!!!!!...even Mr. Hal Bruce...and Shelley....and Scott....and Gail!!!
Charlene....RIGHT ON SISTER!...scoring your Paul McCartney tiks!...I'm trying to get them for Fenway Park in August...but it's not easy. I miss you "Rochester Girls"....and everyone else!
Jay...thanks so much for your Daisy Room show...you made me cry...as always...when you performed Beautiful Boy...my favorite song sung by you. PEACE...we're gonna' have it one day.(TP)

My little sister was born on Paul's birthday. She loves reminding me of that every year (and of course a card w/ $$)
Happy birthday Paul & Pam (my sis)

Charlene,
Denise from Milford here. I have a question for you please email me at DF99@zoomtown.com
Thanks.

Hi Charlene. I'm not normally up at 4am but wanted to wish Paul Happy BD before it got too late in the day in England (if that's where he is today). Congrats on getting tix to 2 Paul shows. Very cool! Did you know he has added a 3rd show? Enjoy!

Cindi....anyone up at 4:00 am DEFINITELY deserves to be first!!!

I'd like to be the first to wish Sir Paul a Happy Birthday today! The Rochester Girls have tickets to both shows next month, so look out New York City!

It is always great to see all the friends I've made over the years at AROTR...guests AND performers, alike! I won't try to list the friends...you all know who you are... but I do want to say "Congrats" to Kim on the addition to her family. All You Need is Love continues to be "the best d*mn cover band in the business" while Hal Bruce never ceases to amaze me in everything he does. (Hal, Nova Scotia is getting closer and closer to Rochester! Hopefully by next June, it'll be just around the corner!) Peter and the Beatleburys, the Rochester Girls love you guys! Instant Karma was their usual shakin' rebel sevles, and ALEX doing a Paul song!!! How cool was that? Band on the Run never disappoints and they, along with the new addition of Wingsbanned made the Concert for Paul nothing short of spectacular! The Abbey Road show was, well, FABulous! We got a kick outta The Beafore, doing the old stuff in their leathers, and I also loved putting a face to the name and voice of Dr. Robert from BeatlesRadio.com after being an avid listener for so long! Bestles Fest West is looking better and better! Maybe I'll be able to cross seeing San Francisco off my bucket list soon!

Since AROTR, we've been rockin' to Beatles Revolution (www.Beatlerevolution.com) and having a great time. They did a show right here in the Rochester Girls' backyard and received rave reviews. We'll be rockin' with them again in Painted Post on July 30th... if you're in the area, come on out and join us! Hope to cya there!

editor: while you would like to be first...you are in fact 2nd

"You say it's your birthday ... "
Happy Birthday, Paul!

QUESTION
Is it true that "Eight Days A Week" is looking for a new Paul?
ANSWER
No. A misunderstanding about scheduling led to an ad for a "temp stand-in" but, it's all been worked out (the group actually got things worked out during the AROTR weekend - magic huh)- Everything is Kosher w/ Eight Days A Week

Belated greetings from San Francisco, this is Sun Kings Bruce

Had such a groovy time again this year at AROTR 2009, where to begin?… Reunion with friends from AROTR 2008, plus so many great new friends from around the globe… Getting to hear all the other great bands (Lucy, Itchy, ARL!, WBanned, BOTRun, Bkwds, BritBeat, BeaTrips, Beafore, STruffle, Elliots, Meanies, Mario, New/BeaStrings, W’Wall, NorB, Reptls, pant-pant wheeze)… Feeling so warmly welcomed… Massive and very musical sing-alongs till 4am… Blood brothers in Lucy In The Sky… Sco’ish chums in Etchy Cyoo Perk… Mario, new friend, great soul… Many thanks to all the generous, loving fans… Thanks a million to Gary Jacob & the Galt House… Tech crew magicians… Troop 77's great grub!... And of course indebted gratitude to me very talented SK mates +Jen… It was a complete blast being invited back to share five fab days with everyone in Louisville!

– bcoe, The Sun Kings

Dean,

It was Peggy from Toledo, OH that wanted the picture of the girl with the record. Thanks so much.

Denise from Milford

Peggy is the one who is asking for the pic of the girl with the record in her hair. Sometimes the names are matching up with the right comments. pwulf0812@yahoo.com. Thanks!

Just wanted to say what a great time I had again this year at AROTR. Great job by everyone involved. The bands were awesome, and of course the late night jams were a blast! See you next year!

Denise, I may have a picture of the girl with the record in her hair standing by my motorcycle. I'm not sure if it's the one you are talking about. So, how do I get it to you?

The Deadly Medly from Hal Bruce Brandon and I remember it well. I dont think I got the girl with the record thru a ponytail, Brandon pointed her out to me this year, but unable to get the pic. I did get Kaycee that I will post when Day 4 is completed. I think I got a picture of a girl with the record in her hair in 2005, but unfortunately those pictures on on 3.5" floppy discs and will take forever.
Denise from Milford

Last night when I went to see a band, they started playing a Beatles medley. The lead singer joked that they were going to perform every single song the Beatles ever recorded and everyone in the audience laughed like it could not be done. HA! They must have never seen Hal Bruce before!!!!!!!!

Can't wait until next year!!!

Great time just outside of Louisville (Middletown, KY) this past Sunday w/ Eight Days A Week. We took a raise of hands and there were 17 attendee's at our Wetherby Park gig who were also at the ATOTR event. Great turnout and great people. Beatles forever - hope to see ya's all in 2010.
Next Sunday Mason Ohio www.eightdaysaweekband.com

anybody know how Security Jim is feeling? They said he was going to try to make it Saturday for a little while for a visit.

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=384422104&albumID=573107&imageID=4139838

Hello all you photographers...I'm still looking for the picture of the little lady with the record in her ponytail. Anyone get one?

Sorry, it doesn't have the .com at the end. When you get to the page the link is under my and Bradnon's picture in front of the AROTR sign. You click on the word "pics" and find the Abbey Road on the River albums.

Here's my correct link:

Denise_from_Milford's_award_winning_pix

Thanks,
Denise from Milford

Forgot to attach video. Sorry, here it is!

Here is a video of a Jam, which I think was Sunday night/Monday morning.I think this may have been the last song we did in the session. Hope you like it! I haven't listened to it myself. Are we in tune?

Thanks Editor, we appreciate the kind words! We had a blast this year, and we will see you all in 2010!
Thanks everyone for making the trip so special!!!
Janne

Hello everyone! It was a drag for me to miss AROTR this year, I really missed it. I've met some wonderful people in the last 3 years I've been there.
Although, it was really hard imagining being there without The Jukebox.
I really want everything to get sorted out and have The Jukebox play in the Main Stage.
2006, 2007 and 2008...they've played only ONCE in the Main Stage. What's that about? It doesn't make any sense at all.
I think we should all come together and have the boys back at AROTR.
Let's have real singalongs till 6am! Let's party and dance all night long to the so called "party Beatles tribute band"

WE WANT THE JUKEBOX BACK AT AROTR

Editor: from the tone of this post, it sounds like The Jukebox wasn't at AROTR over a Main Stage flap. That isn't even close to the truth. And there is nothing to sort out, The Jukebox were invited; they declined. It's that simple. We never had a disagreement about anything. However, if by now, everyone has not noticed there are hundreds, if not thousands of great Beatle acts across this universe. If we had the same bands back every year, how would we ever find new ones? I have on my desk right now tapes and press kits from 60 bands who want to play who never have. Many of them will be invited. You cannot squeeze more acts into 5 days, 6 stages.

New bands you loved in 2009 to name a few: Norwegian Beatles, Beafore, Wingsbanned, Union Jack, Alyona, Ralf Gauck, BritBeat, and The NewBees.....
How'd we do ? You can bet we are looking for bigger roles for The Trouble With Boys, Axis, and The NewBees each who did not play enough!

Now here's the part that will cause spasms on some computer screens. We tend not to invite back bands who have turned us down for one reason or another. Sorry; we have a methodology we adhere to. This year The Repeatles were an exception. That's because they had a good reason for taking time off, are an amazing band, are not prima donnas, and are easy to work with. That's how we roll!

So, expect to see some old names fade away, and some new ones light up. (and do I think MissYamel is a real name)

To the Editor,
Thanks, that's the best Compliment!! Found out we will be doing mandatory overtime at work. I hope I can finish up all the pictures when I can.
Denise from Milford

I've been attending for 5 years and finally got my photo taken. Denise, I hope your camera isn't broken.

Hey, there, everybody....just wanted to thank you all for providing me with an incredible time. This festival is my second favorite (other than my very own Peak Summit, of course-- www.peaksummit.com)...
I really appreciated all the compliments on my band Paradigm's Pink Floyd set...I'm humbled by all of your comments and accolades. Maybe, with a little luck, we'll be able to entertain you again sometime...

I still have LOADS of pictures from the festival that will appear on a web-account somewhere as soon as my Peak Summit festival closes next week. I got some great angles of your favorite bands, and some really nice ones of YOU folks, doin what you do...having a grand old time.

Thanks again! Love is ALL you need!