Thursday, August 30, 2007

Ramblings 8-30-2007

So, I'm looking at a new t-shirt I bought that is the front cover of Abbey Road by the Beatles.

Have you ever wondered if it would be quite as iconic if, say, Ringo were out of step?

I'm guessing not.

108 comments:

lara said...

ha, probably not. whenever i see that picture, i always envision john stopping suddenly and them all running into each other, a la the monkees. which is my brain at work, but the point is that it's a very visceral picture that seems as if it could come to life at any moment.

Anonymous said...

Why was Paul the only one right foot forward?

Nique's Nana said...

OMG Chris, my girl friend bought that album when it first came out -this sure brings back some old memories of some really good times I had with my friends. Gee, you were but a twinkle in your parents eyes :)

Nique's Nana said...
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Nique's Nana said...

There was so much controversy over that picture.

Carrie said...

Actually, I think it's unclear whether or not that would matter, though most likely cause for some sort of deeper discussion on the placement of their feet by art critics. I've gone through so many art history classes that I can't even look at a piece of pop culture without even wanting to analyze it and for that, I blame having to write entire papers on the aesthetics of pieces of art. That photo alone already has so much meaning and backstory around it as it is (the license plate, the placement of all of their feet, etc.) ...If any of that even makes any sense.

What's also interesting is how many spoofs have been made from that one particular photograph.

Marley said...
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Marley said...

I'm guessing it would have gone unnoticed - but truth be told - would never have happened and analyzing that cover is unending as there are so many real or contrived
"symbolisms" that build on each other. GDA can fill us in on that - once he is rested from the rockin' concert he just went to!

But where I come out is that
McCartney (and his ego) always understood the musical marketplace. He would have understood the iconic importance of being out of step.

Song trivia - I know the words to every song on Abbey Road. I bring this up because I have read some idol reviews that say the AI Tour audience in unfamiliar with "Typical". And I happen to know the words to Typical - so please look or listen for the crazy blonde who will be singing along with you next Friday!!! At the top of my lungs, making a complete and utter fool of myself. Can't wait.

Anonymous said...

It is ironic that some people don't know Typical. Maybe they just never saw it on the internet. Now many months after Chris performed it on Idol it is getting the deserved airplay on FUSE tv which IMHO is the real MTV. I get a certain smile when it comes on because the first time I ever heard the song it was all because of our BONO. Tee hee

Cathy Storms said...

I don't think anyone would of noticed if Ringo were out of step. I always thought that Paul was out of step because he was left handed. (Plus it made people wonder why he was different in the picture) I also thought it would of been funny if John would of stopped & they all crashed into each other.
Its good to hear from you again Chris...Hope all is well.

DJ in AL said...
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DJ in AL said...

Chris,

It's great to hear from you! I had no idea of all the theories circulating behind Abbey Road. It's very interesting to say the least.

GDA come hither and give us your take on the album cover!

Incidentally Chris, you are accumulating quite the tshirt collection!

To Amanda I am thinking about you and praying for you this week. Come check in when you feel up to it.


To all my other fro buddies I hope you have a safe and happy Labor Day holiday!

Carianne said...

"Actually, I think it's unclear whether or not that would matter, though most likely cause for some sort of deeper discussion on the placement of their feet by art critics." Carrie, I couldn't agree more! LOL

Chris, I LOVE your ramblings! They are the kind of random things my friends and I sit around and talk about, but whenever other people hear us they think we're crazy :P Thanks for being crazy, too!

I hope the tour's still fun, and not tiring you or any of the other Idols out too much...

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

Anonymous said...

I saw someone with a purse with the album cover on it today. It made me think of this thread :P I've never really examined the picture but I do think it's great.

Anonymous said...

I think that if you were a fan of the Beatles, you already knew that ALL of them were out of step, with the rest of the world. That's what made them special, not being afraid to step up, and free their talents. :-)
Perhaps the fact that they step together shows only their unity at a world that was not always in support of that. They had each other.

Also? To me it captures a moment in time.

rosalee said...

To Marleybone/Badpacifist -

I recently left a Mute Math article on the fansite (Chris Sligh/General Discussion/Online Articles) where Mute Math credits Chris with promoting "Typical".

To All -

GDA is on vacation and I don't know when he will be returning, but he did tell me this about his NJ concert on 8/29:

He waited with the crowd on a line after the show to try to meet Chris. He graciously let two people who had been waiting longer than him go in front of him. Chris came down the line, signing autographs. However, he stopped just one person short of GDA, turned around, and went back the other way.....

Needless to say, GDA was NOT a happy camper.

Chris, when the tour is over, maybe you can send GDA an autographed pic or something?

Abbey Road:

I have the Abbey Road tee also, as well as several other Beatles t-shirts (of course, of course).

I think that no matter who was out of step on the cover, someone would have made a big deal out of it with symbolism.

The Abbey Road cover was a very well known and talked about item. I believe it was tied in to the "Paul is Dead" rumour.

Here is a representation of it from the late, great caricaturist, Al Hirschfeld:

http://www.alhirschfeld.com/cgi-bin/popup?ID=3631&CAT=A1

Scroll down to the bottom of this link to view the alternate shots taken for the Abbey Road cover. It includes two shots taken in 1993, one of which was used on Paul's "Paul is Live" album:

http://www.norwegianwood.org/beatles/english/abbey2.html

Scroll down to "The Famous Photograph" in this Wikipedia link to get more background on the cover and to see a very comprehensive list of imitations and parodies of it:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abbey_Road_(album)

Warning - The Red Hot Chili Peppers cover may be too risque for some of you... (cover your eyes or don't click on that link - lol)

Here's the Rutles's "Shabby Road" cover:

http://www.rutles.org/rpix/sr.jpg

And speaking of Shabby Road, a take-off:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=W0AsM0qPkic

The Abbey Road cover was also parodied in the movies - watch:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=8FoJng-Tf-k

Okay. Enough of this. Guys - don't forget to watch the Webcast of the Idols ringing the closing bell at the Nasdaq today at 4 PM. (see fansite news). Tune in a few minutes early.

DJ in AL said...

I can't believe GDA got that close and didn't get to talk to Chris. I would have had a coronary! I would definitely have made a fool of myself trying to get his attention. Course, that is probably not GDA's style, in fact I'm sure it's not.

Poor GDA. Well I feel his pain.

ChrisSligh said...

Oh my gosh! I feel horrible!

People...let me think of how to say this...STOP ME!!! PLEASE!!! I WANT TO MEET YOU!!! Seriously, call my name. Usually, when I'm signing autographs, I've just got my head down, trying to get through it (for some reason in the last couple of weeks large crowds have been a little freaky - I think it's b/c in Toronto, the people were literally squishing people at the front of the line and it kind of freaked me out, but I digress). Anyway, please if you see me after the show, please, please, please call my name. You guys are who I care about...I mean Cake fans are cool, but the Fro Patro is where my heart's at.

Anyway, GDA, when you see this, I am SO sorry.

Chris

Carmen said...

“Abbey Road” is my favorite album of all time (TACOSB is second). It's timeless. Plus, the fact that it was the Beatles last work together makes it even more special. To me, it is a dazzling, unforgettable send-off to the greatest band ever.
A lot of people believe that “Let It Be” was the last album that the Beatles did, however, it was actually recorded for the most part in January 69. “Abbey Road” was recorded during the summer of 69. “Let It Be” was released after “Abbey Road” and after the announcement of the of the breakup of the band in April of 1970. It was Paul who convinced the band that they could make a better album (after doing Let It Be) and even though there was still a lot of tension amongst the band, they really concentrated on producing a good album and they succeeded.

There was a big rumor at the time that Paul was dead . The album cover was suppose to have hidden meaning to support this rumor. John in white was suppose to represent God, Ringo in black was suppose to be the undertaker, George in his dungarees was suppose to be the gravedigger and Paul being barefoot was well suppose to be a “dead man”.

One of the reason that this my favorite Beatle album is because the way it was put together. Each member of the band had a chance to contribute and shine on their own and yet you still get the musical magic of their chemistry as a foursome on the album.
Also for me, this album contains what I believe are George Harrison’s best songs, “Here Comes the Sun” and “Something“. I love the hook in “Here Comes the Sun” and the guitar solo in by George in “Something” is amazing. To me George got overlooked on his songwriting abilities because of the works of McCartney and Lennon.

I love the line from the song “The End” which by the way is not the last song on the album but rather the second to last song. It goes "And in the end / The love you take / Is equal to the love you make"
OK, I have rambled way too much but I really love this topic.

LLL,
BTW, I have booked my airfare & hotel for New Hampshire. It looks like I will be in the same hotel as you (across the street from the Verizon Center). Hopefully, if there are no plane delays, I will go to both shows. Maybe we can meet up before the concert. I always love to meet other members of the Fro Patro and if we see Chris we can scream together!

SIMB
Carmen

Cathy Storms said...

I knew you would feel bad Chris. I'm so sorry GDA didn't yell out your name. Don't feel bad. You have no way of knowing what we look like or who we are unless we tell you.
He will meet you next time.
You are so gracious if you would of known he was there, you would of made a point to meet him..
Most of us aren't shy about letting you know we are there.

Cathy Storms said...

Oh Carmen~I want to go so bad....
There is no way I can come from San Diego to New Hampshire for the last show. I have tried to come up with a million different ways to get there but NO!!. I will so be there in spirit. You can give Chris a big hug from his core group member in San Diego.

Unknown said...

Chris,

It seems obvious to me that you absolutely must host some kind of Fro Patro or blogger buddies event. You really, truly need to meet all of your core supporters, don't ya think?


Love from B'ham!

Unknown said...

OOPS, alex is code for DJ in AL, just realized I am signed in under my son's account.

Marley said...

Chris, your comment was very kind (because I may have been shy) and has validated the ridiculous behavior I will most likely exhibit.

So here goes - next Friday in Philadelphia, probably not at a meet and greet, but outside later at the buses - the screaming woman with the FRO PATRO shirt, yelling FRO PATRO is most likely me:)

Cathy Storms said...

DJ~I agree. It would be so cool for all of to get together with Chris & Sarah. There is talk of meeting in Nashville next summer but it would be fun if it could happen sooner. You could all come to San Diego. I have alot of floor space & my daughter would put some of you guys up..lol.....My grandaughter Deliah would love to have Chris to herself. She's only
4 but she is still telling everyone he is her best friend.

DJ in AL said...

Cathy,

I agree, I wish we could do it alot sooner than next summer. Course Nashville would be alot closer for me, but honestly, I don't care where we do it, I will be there. I wonder what kind of begging and trickery we will have to do to get Chris to come meet us?

Cathy Storms said...

I think most of the Fro-Patro'ers live closer to Nashville & I also will come wherever. Begging & trickery huh...I have a feeling it won't take much...

Cathy Storms said...

marleybone~go for it! Make us proud...

DJ in AL said...

Cathy,

I told Marley the same thing, stand on your head if you have to. You will regret if you don't try, trust me.

Carianne said...

Cathy, I agree.. They should all come to San Diego! I think that's convenient for everyone! haha jk
but seriously, it would be awesome to meet all you guys! ^_^

marleybone ~ Go for it! Seriously, it won't matter how crazt you look if you get to meet the one and only Sligh!

Cathy Storms said...

dj..Oh yeah. My daughter, my two grandaughters & I yelled like there was no tomorrow when we saw him come out after the show. People thought we had lost our minds but we didn't care. And, yeah he was looking down when he started to sign our stuff till I said "I'm one of your blogger girls"..Thats all it took to make that one of most unforgettable nights of our lives..

DJ in AL said...

I'm tellin ya'll, I think he loves his blogger buds, I really do think he is sincere.

Carrie said...

I know you all like to plan out meetings and stuff, but I have to keep in mind I'm only 23 and just quit my last job to go back to school. Maybe there should be meetings on every coast or something so that enough people could afford to get together. I don't know. But I live in the Northeast and kinda doubt that I can just run off to Nashville to hang out with people. I'm pretty excited for the prospects of a solo tour, though.

DJ in AL said...

Carrie,

We are mostly just doing some wishful thinking. But I hear ya, the solo tour may be our best bet of seeing Chris up close and personal!

Carrie said...

Well of course I know it's all just planning, but even so it's most likely something I wouldn't be included in. Plus not many people here actually know me. I'm sort of one of those in the shadows.

risalea said...

That GDA! I got an email, too, Rosalee, after he saw me wish him a fun night on the blog, and he told me the same thing. And Chris, I replied back and told him he should have yelled out, "Hey, I'm GDA!" and you would have known immediately who it was, but as DJ said, that doesn't seem like his style. He said he wasn't taking his laptop on vacation, so it may be a few days before he's back on.

With these crowds, you have to make yourself known. Heck, I not only made sure our Chris saw me, I told Chris R. I was one of Chris S. Blogger Girls. I don't even want to know what Chris R. had to say to our Chris about that! LOL

And I can understand how the crowds get a little scary. While we were waiting by the buses in NLR, Amanda and I couldn't get over one of the moms who had come with a group of pre-adolescent girls. She had definitely been enjoying some libations before and/or during the show.

And I'd be all about a Nashvegas gathering before summer. I just figured it would need to be far enough out for Chris to have a handle on his tour schedule to know where he will even be, and for Fro Patroers to have plenty of time to make their plans, especially those who will have to fly in or drive long distances.

I don't know enough about the Abbey Road pic to comment. I was a very small child at the time. : ) Rosalee, you always come up with some enlightening links. (and I think the Red Hot Chili Pepper boys were being a bit overly optimistic with the tube sock thing. LOL) I hope everyone has a fabulous Labor Day weekend! Risa R.

Anonymous said...

Regarding meeting you?
Well Chris, that's why I waved my arms like I did to catch your attention at Louisville! LOL. I didn't want to miss saying Hi to you! I'm not lunatic, it just meant alot to me. :-)

Sorry some of the crowds have been so scarey of late.

BTW, Reading this stuff above about the Beatles, I feel positively uneducated.Carry on!

Cathy Storms said...

Hey Carrie~Don't worry, we won't leave you out. Somehow or another I have faith that we will work it out. I couldn't imagine any of the Fro Patro'ers being left out. I have already started saving my $ to be able to go. If we have to, we can share a ride if you live close to San Diego. That is if you don't mind traveling with a 4 year old, a 6 year old & a 2 year old.
Yeah, if I take one of the grandkids, I have to take them all....

risalea said...

Carrie, Chris hasn't made a peep concerning all of our Nashville talk, so it could be all pie in the sky. I'm sure Chris will be touring all over, no doubt to a venue close to you in the near future, so don't worry. Whether you make it to Nashville or not (if it comes to pass), I'm sure you'll get a chance to visit with him. Risa

rosalee said...

Risa, DJ -

I feel very bad about GDA, too. I think he really had the wind knocked out of him. He puts a lot of energy and thought into his posts, and I know he really wanted to introduce himself to Chris.

On another note, did anyone see the Idols in the Webcast today at the Nasdaq? If not, I captured the video, but I don't know if I'm allowed to post it. What I will do though is make some stills from it over the weekend and post them in with my photobucket pics of the concerts. I'm also getting to learn Photoshop a little better and want to lighten up some of those dark pictures my husband took, so I'll be reposting them and a few more also. I'll let you all know when they're up.

Carianne said...

Hi Carrie! Seems like we have some things in common!
I too feel like I'm one of those in the shadows, and I also think that I will be unable to attend any sort of gathering since (unless it's in socal) I'd have no way of getting there due to the fact that I am also a struggling college student.
But who knows? Maybe one day we will be able to attend a Fro Patro gathering! At any rate, I'm sure when Sligh goes on tour, he will come near enough to both of us. Can't wait for that! ^_^

Carianne said...

rosalee - what webcast are you talking about?? I must have missed it.

rosalee said...

Carianne -

I put up a notice on the fansite and again in this blog. The press release was somewhat of a last minute thing, coming out only yesterday afternoon.

The 10 Idols were in New York today (at 43rd and Bdwy) to ring the closing bell for the Nasdaq Stock Exchange. They pretty much just stood there in a group and clowned around some. Phil was the spokesperson for the group, although they all introduced themselves to use up the time until the closing bell (4:00 PM EST). It started at about 3:50 PM and was over a couple of minutes past 4:00 PM.

HstryQT said...
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HstryQT said...

Carrie I don't think you're in the shadows in any way! You're here on the blog just as much as the rest of us! And I know what you mean about being able to hop all over the country, but we can just work together.

I don't know how far Indy is from Buffalo (wait, is it Buffalo? sorry if I'm wrong), but if you can make it here, I'll drive us the rest of the way. THere will be infant-sitting involved, but oh well! How fun would it be to have a Fro Patro road trip? Way more fun than a squished up flight! :)

And as for getting Chris' attention, I've constantly been joking about how if I was in a crowd situation I'd scream "Chris! It's HISTORY CUTIE!" No matter how dumb I looked, because -- well, why pass up the chance? That'd definitely turn a few heads - but Chris would know! I think he'd recognize any of our screennames if we yelled them at him. :)

Lori

ChrisSligh said...

Seriously, guys, I'm excited to meet all of you. I'm seriously kind of ticked I didn't get to meet GDA...he's been here for a long time.

Anyway, as far as Nashvegas...I'd love to host a free picnic kind of thing somewhere and have me and my band do a free concert (or maybe free if you came to the picnic).

Let's keep on discussing it.

Chris

HstryQT said...

A picnic would be really cool. I'm sure we'd make it happen - you, Chris, just have let us know when the most open time for you will be this summer/spring/ whenever.

It can't be stated enough how great it is to have met so many great people through the Fro Patro fanbase - you must be proud!

PS: Was ringing the closing bell on wall street fun?

Anonymous said...

It sucks that GDA didn't get to Chris but I really wish he would've said something. I understand that's not the way he is but it would've gotten him to meet Chris.

Carrie, no one knows you? ME! We only talk everyday.. unless I'm not good enough anymore. :( Jk.

I probably wouldn't be able to get myself to Nashville but all I have to do is get up north 5 or 6 hours and get to Carmen in Jacksonville. She has offered to take me with her. If that all doesn't work out, hopefully he'll go around the US on his solo tour.

Carrie said...

Well Chris... if you can fly me out to Nashville I'll be GLAD to come and party! Kidding obviously.

I don't know how to explain exactly where Buffalo is. It's two hours from Toronto. About 15 minutes from Niagara Falls (US Side), 2 1/2 hours from Syracuse (still bummed I can't go to that show Sunday lmao). It's nice. I guess. If you like chicken wings (we don't call them buffalo wings. Funny, huh?)

I guess I'm not in the "shadows" since everyone seems to know who I am and I've been here FOREVER, but I usually don't talk unless I have something to say.

Since I never provided a review, here is a picture from my collection for all of you;

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y7/inkedstars/American%20Idol%202007/P1050651.jpg

Unknown said...

Wow...As depraved as I am of time. I think I might be able to coarse my employer to let me take some time off to go to a picnic. That would be amazing!!

Like Hstry QT said, it really is great how many people we've met through the fro patro fanbase.

rosalee said...

Bring on the Rotel tomatoes!!

HstryQT said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
risalea said...

WOO HOO! Doing the happy dance! We're glad to hear you like the idea, Chris!

Folks, TN is just a gorgeous state with lots to do, so WHEN (I'm moving away from the if now) we find out the timeframe, seriously consider making a family vacation out of it. I'll volunteer to get some tourist info together when a date is set.


And I'm bringing Rotel for everybody! : ) Risa

Unknown said...

NASHVEGAS!! IM SO STUPID!!!

Man. DUH!! I didn't realize "Nashvegas" was Nashville. Why am I so stupid? That's only an hour or so drive for me!! Awesome!

Again....I'm stupid. =D

Cathy Storms said...

Count me in!!!Nashville is a long way from San Diego but I will be there. Already told hubby & he said"yes you need to go".
I am so excited..
I'll bring the avocados...

risalea said...

Oh, Rosalee, I forgot to comment on your question. I totally missed the webcast, because I guess I was speed reading on the fansite and I thought it took place on Thursday! Risa

Carrie said...

Risa, you can watch the Nasdaq webcast here...

Part one; http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2vmdh_nasdaq_music

Part two; http://www.dailymotion.com/greateggs/video/x2vmi3_nasdaq-2_music

rosalee said...

Risa, Carianne -

I think a lot of people missed it because it was on such short notice. Oh, well. But, like I said, I'll post some pics when I get the chance...

Later.

rosalee said...

Oh, and Risa, I did put the item on the website on Thursday, but very late in the evening because I knew I wasn't going to post early on Friday....

Carrie said...

TAWNY ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111 etc etc one one six nine

Cathy Storms said...

How funny that a topic about the Beatles turns into a discussion about going to Nashvegas..I love this blog.

Anonymous said...

Carrie's pretty freakin awesome :D

lara said...

carmen - that's awesome news. i'd love to meet up in NH. we're getting in on friday, so we'll definitely be doing the whole experience from start to finish. i'll shoot you an email when it gets a little closer. it's officially september now, so we're almost there!

chris - that nasdaq thing is the most random appearance in the history of ever, but it looked like you guys had a lot of fun with it, which was great to see.

Carmen said...

Ya'll know that I would definitely drive to Nashvegas to meet all of you and Chris. Thats just a short drive for me and I love the state! One of the best places I ever lived!

Risa,
I would be happy to help you get info together on TN and Nashville. I lived 50 miles south of Nashville just off the Natchez Trace before moving to Florida. I agree with you, it is an absolutely beautiful state and a great place to take a fmaily vacation.

Tawny,
Girl you know you always have a ride with me. (even if I have tod rive down to Miami to get your butt!) I would be willing to pick up any Fro Patroers along the way if you need a ride.

LLL,
I will be coming in early Saturday mourning to NH. Hopefully if there are nomajor plane delays, I will be able to go to both shows.

Chris,
Just a week now until DC with HstryQt! Did I tell you we were excited!!!

SIMB
Carmen

Anonymous said...

Yay for the picnic idea! I'd so be there-- just say when. :-)
We can all bring stuff and make it pot luck! (sounds like you have the Rotel tomatoes locked down!LOL)

risalea said...

Carmen said, "I would be happy to help you get info together on TN and Nashville. I lived 50 miles south of Nashville just off the Natchez Trace before moving to Florida. I agree with you, it is an absolutely beautiful state and a great place to take a family vacation."

That would be great, Carmen! I've been on overdrive, trying to think of the best way to get the info out there. It seems like topics on the fansite get lost at times, but Rosalee may be able to help us keep it front and center when the time comes. I even thought about a little website. I'm really excited thinking about it. One suggestion...if we do this in the summer, maybe go for June? I know it all depends on what gets on the books for Chris. Summers in the south get so hot (and humid!)I'm afraid some of our northern friends or those on the west coast used to those ocean breezes may melt! I got really tickled when visiting my sis in Ohio earlier this summer and folks at her church commenting about how hot it was. It was in the 80's. They didn't know hot! LOL

Cathy Storms said...

Risalea~A little website would be really cool. Anytime is good for me. It's hot & humid here in San Diego right now. I live about 13 miles from the ocean & its already close to 100 here today...so don't worry about us West Coasters & the weather. We will come anytime to meet you guys & Chris..I am so excited. I can't wait.

Cathy Storms said...

Oh I almost forgot..If you need me to do anything to help with the planning let me know.

HstryQT said...

I can offer my super-duper organizing and planning skills (and the fact that I won't be working and will have extra time on my hands). But my help would be the pre-party planning because I'm thinkin' I'll only be able to do a one-night hotel stay, so I wouldn't be able to be there early to do hands on help.

Googlepages makes it really easy to make your own webpage. I have one for "keeping tabs on me and danny" since we moved out of the state. To get a nice page, you don't have to know what you're doing at all! It's great :).

Risa/Rosalee/Cathy/Carmen anyone else, let me know how I can help!

Lori

ChrisSligh said...

All right. Let's talk through legistics of how this would work.

Who's in school or teaches?

If so, when do you get out of school?

Do we want to do it over a holiday weekend (like Memorial Day weekend?)

Do we want a picnic? Or do we want something inside for weather purposes?

I was thinking what we could do is have a free picnic for the Fro Patro' (or meal, depending on weather). We would advertise it to all fans through all the websites and stuff and hopefully have a few people come out. Then we would have a big show somewhere in Nashville. Could be cool.

Chris

HstryQT said...

Hey Chris! Thanks for giving us the confidence to get the ball rolling on this! I personally have no issue with whenever it is. But it is good to consider the teachers. That'd mean it'd be good to do Memorial Day or we'd have to wait until after mid-June. Very thoughtful of you.

I just started a website - very simple, but it's a way to keep everything organized. Your feedback would be great too!

Here's the link for ya'll to check out. It's just an idea and if you want to start something new I won't be offended. It literally took me 10 minutes.

http://fropatroparty.googlepages.com/home

risalea said...

I'm retired from teaching, but my new job is tied to the school schedule. I think I'm pretty much free in June and July. And if not, I'll take off.

Holiday weekend...double edged sword. People would be more likely to have 3 days off, but Memorial Day may be early for those wanting to make a vacation out of it and have kids in school. And when school gets out is so different all over. Even around here, a lot of the private/smaller schools are out by Memorial Day, and the public schools go through the first week of June. But the kids issue may not affect most of your Core folks. I'm with whatever works to get the most people there. I had wondered earlier when we first started talking about it, tying it to either right before or after Fan Fare in Nashville in case someone might like to hit that as well. (for you non-country fans, that's a huge event in Nashville where the country stars come out to meet their fans).

I'm thinking, plan an outdoor picnic with a backup location. Maybe plan a place to go to church together on Sunday for those who want to participate. Carmen, myself, Lori, Cathy, etc. whoever else wants to help could put together some sightseeing options. And a concert? Definitely!

Here are some 2008 dates to ponder:
Memorial Day falls on May 26, so the Sat. before would be the 24th.

Fan Fare is June 5-8, 2008 (that's a Thurs. through Sun.) You definitely wouldn't want to have it the same weekend...there would be all kinds of hotel issues. I've heard they get booked up very early. Either the weekend prior or after might be nice.

The 4th of July falls on a Friday, which would also make a nice long weekend.

That's my two cents. (whoops, maybe my two dollars, I never know when to stop writing!) Risa

risalea said...
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risalea said...

That's what I had in mind, Lori, exactly. A page with general info, links to Nashville area sightseeing, etc. Can it be passworded so all who are working on plans have access? Rosalee, can you make that a permanent link on the fansite when we find out a date and get rolling?
I'm going to go to the fansite and post to remind folks to come here with their comments on dates, etc.
Risa

Cathy Storms said...

I'm pretty open to almost any time. Except mothers day week. We do a huge camping thing here.
I can take time off anytime if I know in advance. I'm not afraid to travel alone if my grandkids can't make it. You just tell me what you need me to do & I'll do it. I can arrange to come a few days early to help when I get there.
Church on Sunday sounds great.
A concert on Saturday night after the party...Yeah!!!
It's really going to happen. I can't wait.

Cathy Storms said...

Lori, you rock girl. Love the site.
I'm calling my daughter right now & tell her she has less than a year to get over her fear of flying cause we're going to NashVegas.....Road Trip...Yahoo!!
Oh yeah, Chris you rock also..But you already know that.
Thanks so much for giving us this chance to meet each other & you.
This is going to be great!!

Carmen said...

Risaa & Lori,
Lori love the website, that is exactly what we need. I am open for just about anytime but the summer (after the first week in June) is better for me because I work for the school district. Risa you are right you don't want to do anything during Fan Fare cause Nashviille is just plain crazy then. Not a hotel open for miles.

I would love to help with putting together sighseeing options etc. There is just a ton of stuff to do in the local area.
Risa you are right about the weather and folks from other parts of the country not being used to the heat of the South. Nashville's climate is pretty great for the south. Not as hot and humid as some other place down here.

Lori, Cathy and Risa I would love to work with you guys in organizing this.Let's get the ball rolling and I will bring the banana pudding!
SIMB
Carmen

Carrie said...

I'm in school right now and I think I get out pretty early considering I started August 27... but I'm not sure because I'm in the midst of beginning at my THIRD college. (don't ask)

I'll probably be trying to bring two people with me if this actually happens. I'm prob going to be a somewhat professional photographer once this comes around too so I'll take pictures!

Ummm. Oh and what do we do if people try to show up just to show up? I think we need an ~*exclusive*~ list to help prevent and party crashers.

Carrie said...

Also, I don't think one of two people should volunteer to help out. I think EVERYONE should do something/help out in regards to this considering it's kinda a big thing.

Cathy Storms said...

Thanks Carmen..I am really looking forward to working with all of you also. Don't worry about the weather for us So. Calif. girls or guys. It gets really hot & humid here. In fact today is almost 100 & I live 13 miles from the beach. Its going to start lighting any second. Flash flood warning in effect. My husband is out on the Pacifc somewhere down into Mexico fishing for 5 days. I bet the water is really rough.
Carrie~sounds like you are volunteering to be our photogapher. Cool!!!!

Emcy said...

I like Carrie's idea that everyone who want/can help should chip in, because that would make it more rewarding for all in the end, I think.

I'm Carrie's friend and I live close to Montreal (Canada), but I spent a week with her this summer so I could go see the Idol Tour with her (in Rochester). It was amazing, to say the least. I've commented about only once on this blog, but I've followed it in my quiet corner for a while, haha.

I don't know if my input is of great value since no one really knows me at all at this point, but for what it's worth, about the idea of a group trip for fans: I'm not a teacher nor a student, I'm a nanny so it's important that the family can count on me. They always take the last two weeks of July off, so I have those off too. I think, though, that if I discuss it early enough I could arrange something. Although I already have plans to fly to LA in May, so I wouldn't want to be too ambitious and ask for major time off too often in the same year.

I'd do what I can not to let my friend go alone though, mostly because I love her, but also the idea of a Chris Sligh concert is a great incentive!

HstryQT said...

Sorry to be confusing, but for personal security reasons I had to change the website name. I just created a separate email account for people to email with feedback, if you'd like. And through that email is also the new website.

Link to new website http://fropatro.googlepages.com

Email fropatro@gmail.com

:) Carrie, you're totally right - the more people that contribute, the better! Everyone can help!

rosalee said...

Hi guys.

I've been out all day and got back to see all of this commotion! I just left my thoughts on this over at the fansite on the new thread about the Fro Patro Gathering in Nashville. You can leave me feedback over there if you wish.

Carrie said...

Okay guys don't take this the wrong way but Chris suggested a PICNIC, not a CRUISE. I've been reading the fansite and want to just cry because none of this is even practical and the final say is technically up to him. This is supposed to be a fun little outdoor event, not some extravagant ball. If it's held in May and expensive, I can't go. Bottom line. Neither can the people I planned on bringing with me. So please can we all just not jump the gun and wait to see what Chris actually has to say? He doesn't even know what his own schedule is going to be then for crying out loud. I'm not trying to come across as bitchy, but if I end up getting screwed out of attending this, then yes, I'm not going to be happy.

risalea said...

Carrie, Rosalee suggested a cruise, and others will be making other suggestions. That's all any of this is right now. So please, feel free to add your own suggestions on the fansite thread, and please, don't be upset because someone had an idea you didn't like. Everyone's ideas will be given equal consideration, and ultimately time and place will be up to Chris, cause without him, it ain't happening! : ) Risa

HstryQT said...

It's fun to throw ideas around right now, but don't worry Carrie. Ultimately it will be the cheapest option so that the most fans will be able to attend.

ChrisSligh said...

Let's calm down for a second here, peeps! If we can work this out, it will be something free (like a picnic) and then a paid concert, is probably how we'll work it. We'll do a small (maybe coupla hundred) for the picnic RSVP, then the concert will be that night or the next night. It will definitely be affordable.

The cruise will come in 5 years, providing I'm a huge artist that merits a cruise. Lol.

Don't worry, Carrie, we're gonna make this accessible to as many of the Fro Patro as possible.

Peace,
Chris

risalea said...

The suggestion that was referred to was for a dinner cruise, not a cruise cruise. LOL Though I am penciling the cruise cruise in for 2012. heehee

We are exploring picnic options as we speak, with an alternative site in case of rain.

The main thing we need, Chris, is a firm date. In the meantime, we can compile some general info about what is available in the Nashville area for our fro patro meal.

It is gonna' be fun! Risa

Carrie said...

I'm sorry if I came across as a jerk. Money is kinda non-existant for me right now. I quit my job to go to the concert in Rochester and then started school again right after.

rosalee said...

Carrie -

There's hope here after all...

I've been poking around again on the internet. Apparently, Nashville has picnic SHELTERS (something I had never seen before)
in some of their parks. This would afford some protection from the rain:

http://www.nashville.gov/parks/picnic.htm

Here's a possibility for food:
(Check out this whole site)

http://www.jacksbarbque.com/cateringmenu.html

Anonymous said...

Most of the parks down here have picnic tables with roofs over them so I'm not surprised to see that in Nashville.

Thanks Carmen! You're too freakin nice :) I'll make sure I can get to Jacksonville though, I wouldn't make you drive down here to get me.

Cathy Storms said...

Rosalee~That sounds wonderful. Come to think of it our parks have those also..but it never rains in S. Calif..but we have earthquakes. Had one today...not very big but enough to stop me in my tracks. Seems we always have one when hubby is out of town. Guess the trick is to not let him go..lol

risalea said...

We call those shelters pavilions down here (at least that's what we've always called them in AR)and they can be reserved. That explains why you were so concerned about the weather, if you've not seen those before. Most of our decent sized parks will have those, from small ones, to ones that have many tables. Risa

Carrie said...

There are really big shelters you can rent out and smaller ones which you just show up at pretty much everywhere. I just had a party at a huge one here, but only because it is owned by police/fire and my Uncles are both police officers so I think we had a little pull. It was cool because they had a mini kitchen area where we got to set everything up before the party and the place was very nicely sized. They can be pretty expensive overall but I think if everyone set up a fun and donated money that by the time it came around we could figure something out. They're also nice because if it rains, you still have shelter and some of them have tarps that keep out the wind.

Anonymous said...

Can you imagine a dinner cruise on like the General Jackson, on the river in Nashville? Wouldn't that be cool?
*dreams*

Of course, meeting like in the one park by the Parthenon, it has plenty of room there. They put on shows there during the 'Fests. That would be IDEAL. Just saying.

*waves Hi to Chris, 'cause this is his blog after all*

rosalee said...
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rosalee said...

Bullyse -

That's what I suggested on the fansite (the buffet lunch version). Some people think it's too expensive:

http://www.buynashvilletours.com/tours/nv-grayline-general-jackson-lunch-cruise.html

Risa/Carrie -

That's why I was talking about the added expense of tent rentals on the fansite. I've never seen permanent structures like that before around where I live. For private parties, the fire departments around here sometimes have these big tents that they will rent out (at a cheaper price than you'd get on a commercial rental).

On another note, I've updated my Nassau Coliseum Idol Tour pics on my photobucket site, lightening up the dark pics and adding a few more, so here's the link again, for anyone who wants to look:

http://s240.photobucket.com/albums/ff4/rosaleeNY/

I decided not to add any Nasdaq pics because they just weren't that interesting. Rickey.org has some, if you want to look there...

DJ in AL said...

Holy Merde! Holy Merde! I missed everything. Ok, let me get in here, I'm in, I'm in, I'm going, I'm going. I don't care where or when. Please let me help too, I will go get Carrie if I have to or whoever needs a ride to Nashville. I am not kidding. I will come get ya!

I'm with the majority I think, for the sake of the entire group, the cheaper the better, we want everyone to be able to come.


I'm so excited I can't see straight. Do you have any idea how cool this is going to be???? Do ya, huh, do ya?

Jumping up and down in AL!

Anonymous said...

rosalee-- I suppose the General Jackson thing would be costly. I don't know either, if it would afford us enough time to mix and mingle with Chris, if he's going to perform--even Unplugged. I would want talking-time, and that's part of the fun with the Picnic idea. :-)

The Centennial park idea tho, there is lots of room, and even a place to set up shop for a "proper" show for Chris.(which he might like better anyhow)

Personally, I don't care where you all decide to have it, I think the idea itself is really nice. Time to visit with Chris and hang out would be great.

BTW, Happy Memorial Day Chris, where ever you are!

rosalee said...

Bullyse -

You seem to be familiar with the Nashville area. We'd welcome any ideas you have. Also, if you're not a member, stop by the fansite, Chris-Sligh.Info. There's a forum thread there that has already been discussing some of this.

The General Jackson cruise is currently $69 per person for a buffet lunch and live country music. I thought it would be a good "all weather" idea because you could stay inside or roam around the decks outside.

I was concerned about the "talking time" too. I phoned them to try to find out how long the music plays and I couldn't get a straight answer. The woman finally said "at least 2 hours". The cruise itself is 4 hours. But there's nothing to stop people from going outside, or socializing on another deck. I don't know enough to know how it really works. Since it may be a long weekend, some of us may decide to do it anyway on day 2 or 3. This idea seems to be too expensive, especially for the college age fans. (I'm from New York (near NYC) where these kinds of prices are not uncommon).

Actually, it would be really cool if Chris was able to "substitute" his band for the country music. Then invite the press to attend, and we would have a real event!
(as you can tell, I'm really into this "publicity/promotion" idea) (LOL)

At this point, it is unclear as to if and when Chris would play. It could happen on another day/night.
However, as long as we don't get wet, I'm sure we can find a reasonable place to meet(and eat).
Centennial Park may be fine, if it has those shelters over the picnic tables, or some other large sheltered area in case it rains. And I was just reading that it has WI-FI access! (Hear that, Chris? Bring your laptop! (LOL))

Anonymous said...

Hey rosalee,
I live 40miles from Nashville. Spouse works there,and I've been there for a couple events. I have been on the dinner/entertainment cruise, and if Chris was there of course we'd have our own "entertainment", eh? LOL. What it would be cost-wise without entertainment included is the question-- the one without staged entertainment was less money. They have two. Groups can take it over for a Group rate, because Spouse's work did that. We did it both ways. I think it might be not what Chris and his other fans are wanting, due to money and time constraints.

Trying to remember Centennial park stuff, but we could always tent it for shelter.We were there for Italian Fest one year. They had an area/stage set up for a venue, sort of like a Fair's, for the concert that was going on. I'm just tossing ideas out there. I'm easy going as a rule.

Cathy Storms said...

Hey bullyse~maybe since your so close you could give me a few names of decent hotels close by Centennial park or close to downtown where music row is.
I've checked a few but can't tell how close they are to anything.
Thanks

Carrie said...

I WILL find a way to get there, I just don't know how. I've never been on an airplane before and the idea of sitting on one all alone scares the crap out ot me. Bus will take over 16 hours so that's a no, and I won't drive 11 hours on my own because my car will fall apart. Plane would be 3-5 hours for me. But I'll end up having a coronary. Seriously.

Cathy Storms said...

Carrie~I don't really like to fly but I might be forced to be a plane for like 8 to 10 hours alone. If I can do it so can you..I was thinking a train but that would be 2 days or more. We'll be brave together. You have to be there..
I've never traveled alone or stayed in a hotel alone but it might be fun....
My husband told me if I want to go I need to put on my big girl panties & deal with it...He can be such a butt...

risalea said...

Flying is not my favorite form of travel, either, but for the cause, you girls can do it! And Cathy, staying in a hotel room alone is pure joy. I've only gotten to do it a few times, but you get to watch anything on TV you want, you can spread your stuff out, and nobody is in the bathroom when you're ready to hop in the shower or yelling for you to hurry up and get out. : ) Risa

Cathy Storms said...

Thanks Risa~Yeah I'm actually kind of looking forward to it. I just hope that you guys come early so I will have someone to sightsee with. Never been to the South & want to see everything...
Who knows, if its as beautiful as I think it will be, I might just move there. (If I can convince my husband & kids)

Unknown said...

Tennessee is a beautiful state Cathy! I can't imagine living anywhere else. Especially east TN. The mountains are so beautiful at sunrise....

I FEEL SORRY FOR YALL NORTHERNERS!! HAE-YUCK!! WIF YOUR FAST CARS AND MATH AND STUFF!!!

Carianne said...

Man oh man this is sounding so fun!!! But hopefully you guys will go with something simple and cheap (ish), because I'll have to either fly or drive all the way from San Diego, and that won't be cheap... plus, i only work part time because of school.

Carrie,
flying on airplanes really isn't that bad. I flew on one for the first time two years ago -- I was scared to death before I got on the plane -- but as soon as it took off I was completely fine. I built it up to be more in my head.
...Of course, I suppose it might not be the same for you, I'm just giving my personal experience.