Hey fans:
There are no words to describe what a great year it has been. It is hard to believe that I have seen the Band 4 times this year. I have been very lucky in that not only have I been able to see them in 4 totally different venues but I have been able to meet with them after each one as well. They are truly a remarkable bunch of guys. To think they did nearly 90 dates this year and still found time to meet with their fans.
I can only say ....... THANKS !!!!!!!!!!!
You did not disappoint in AC on Saturday night. I won't review the show since it has already been done by a few already.
It was great to meet old friends as well make some new ones. To finally meet Holly and Nancy was a real treat.
Torrey....you pulled it off man. Great job. It was great to finally get to meet you. You should be commended for a job well done. Way to go !!!
Bill Straglinos.....you remain the man....even though you brought me a tape of the Rockline interviews and I cut out on you to sit with two remarkably wonderful people.....Andrea and Joe from Hazleton, PA.....whom Debby and I want to thank very much for the Pitz........I won't explain it's a long story !!!!!!!
Bill....I owe you one buddy.
And to the Doobies.......it's been a great year. Thanks for everything. It is a real treat every time we come to hear you perform. You make us feel like you're playing directly for us...especially when you guys look out into the audience, catch a glimpse of us, give us those smiles which acknowledge us in the audience as if to say......I'm glad you're hear and "this one's for you" !!!!!!
To Big Mike......thanks for taking time away from your family to say hello and talk with us for a while. You're great! Being from New Jersey....what else do you expect. Likewise to your Bro' Eric. It's always a pleasure to see you too man. You were the first to introduce us to the Band during a show at the Mark Etess arena in 1992 and we'll never forget it.
To John......Matt was disappointed he couldn't make it but I told him you said it was cool. He actually was at a Steve Vai concert that night whom he has patterned his own guitar playing style after. You however are fast becoming one of his idols. He really appreciated the time you spent "talking music" with him in Holmdel this August.
To Patrick....what can I say. You are always gracious. Even when they were kicking us out and the lights were going down you continued to meet with everyone you could. The voice is getting better bro' . I see great honors for the new song......a Grammy.....lead song in a new movie.....hmmmm, the sky's the limit with this one. Thanks for everything you have given us this year.
To Skylark....even when you weren't feeling good and you needed to be somewhere, you took the time to stop and talk after the show. Your extended solo is a highlight of the night. You bring that bass to life man.
And finally to the honorary Doobie Brother of the night...none other than Peter the Doobster himself. All I can say was....wow....that's was the meanest tambourine I've heard in a long time !!!!!! It was great seeing you up there although I wish it were me...ha ha ha. Photos will be sent to you soon !!!!
Finally.....Debby and I wish you and your families the best in the new millennium. We hope you continue to keep us, the fans, happy with your tireless tour schedule and eagerly await the new album (or should I say, CD.....I guess I'm showing my age). If it's as good as "Can't Stand To Lose" I am sure you'll be playing and bringing all of us even more happiness for years to come.
Thanks guys for 30 years of "rockin' down the highway".
Joe and Debby (New Jersey)
