the Rock Report

Rockaholics, we’re livin’ in a year that’s gonna be making history in the annals of rock-n-roll!!

I mean, it’s only March, and, so far, we’ve seen:

1. the miracle of super-drummer/songwriter/rockmeister Peter Dintino as he is winning his battle against leukemia. If you haven’t read his angel-daughter Lin’s journal, do it at Pete’s Caringbridge site (and take it from the very beginning so you can witness this true miracle of courage and healing from the start!).

2. an increasing fanbase for (and new music from!) one of the true legends of Rock, Ron Ryan. Not only was he leader of great British bands like The Walkers and The Riot Squad, but he actually wrote the Dave Clark Five hits, Because and Any Way You Want It as well as the original Bits & Pieces (read more about this at Ron’s Site). Today, his music is as crisp, lively and meaningful as ever — and has even gotten the attention of the wildly popular British group, The Fore, and American rocker John Hesterman. A great friend of The Relic, he’s one of the most prolific rock/country writers/artists in the world!

3. a fanatically-growing fanbase for what many call (according to the RelicMail and hordes of fans worldwide) the most exciting band since The Beatles — The Fore. Not only do they have the raw Merseyside sound that made rock-n-roll, but they actually feel this power within them! While The Relic’s proud to be one of their stateside reps, you can catch more of this amazing Fore-some at their site, The Fore band. This group is the one to watch! They’re also on the new DVD, Rare and Unseen: The Beatles, with six instrumental tracks and “in reconstructions of archive footage from before the Fab Four were signed”!* (*from The Fore newsletter, March 08)

By the way: Become part of the FORE-FRONT!! Buy their CD, BLACK & WHITE, and (for you in the UK) catch the group when they have a venue near you (see their website for more details on both)!! To the U.S. fans: call your local radio station and tell them about the lads. Get their music on your fave station’s airwaves!!

4. McCartney’s divorce is final, Sheryl Crow announced she’s gonna join Fleetwood Mac and, here in America, the original, surviving Beach Boys patching up their differences. Mike Love, Al Jardine and Brian Wilson are seriously considering returning to the stage together in concert. Of course, this will undoubtedly include Bruce Johnston and possibly Ricky Fatar, who filled in on the drums after Dennis Wilson’s untimely death (Rick is best known for his Ringo-inspired character as one of The Rutles).

And to think: THIS IS ONLY MARCH, PEOPLE!! Th’ rock’s rollin’ in the ‘08 … and the best is yet to come!! Stay tuned …

Okay … concerning Pete Dintino: it’s the NEWS WE’VE BEEN HOPING FOR:

Rockers, the Relic’s pumped about this one, but I’m sure Pete’s angel-daughter Lin would rather tell ya, so here’s her latest entry (get ready to smile biiiig!):

“Well the news is in!!! The bone marrow tap reusts came in and……. he is cancer free!!!!!! Praise God!!!! They are the preliminary results, but the doctors are confident the rest of the tests will concure. The doctor also said that he would bet (not guarantee) that the Leukemia won’t come back! We just found out this morning. We also found out that the rash is GVH, it does seem to be responding to the topical sterios ointment they are using. This is amazing news all around. God is truly good!! He is gaining strength everyday and is anxious to get home!!! Hope this gives everyone a much needed lift! Happy Sabbath! Love ya Lin”

Now, with that, the Relic is just about speechless! (Hmph … I dare anybody to doubt the power of prayer, friends, family, and rock now!!)

NOT JUST FOR HALLOWEEN …

Y’know, a lot of couples like to “dress up” their romantic interludes, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Although a single dude myself, I can imagine the fun they can have in private while looking like nurses, cops, maids, pirates or heroes.
Sometimes, it can even “spark” a feeling that’s startin’ to dim a bit. So, yes, it has another benefit (oh … and that’s what I learned from a marriage counselor friend of mine!).
Either way you look at it, it’s sexy, fun and adds the pizazz to your relationship!
So why not check out the one place that provides the best in sexy costumes at affordable prices? With their great selection, you can let your imagination go wild!
Then, when you receive yours, go ahead … have the fun that you and your mate deserve!

Sorry for the holdup, Rockers, but … well, Mother Nature had other plans for the RelicRoom today (yep … the power went out!). Since the suits at Compaq haven’t figured out how to run a PC by candlepower, I (snif!) had to be off-the-air for a bit.

Anyway, whaddya say we get on with today’s segment — one that I call

A DAY IN ROCK HISTORY

Okay … yesterday was March 27, right? Well, on that day back in 1952, Sun Records began releasing their music. Natch, it became the first homes of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and others.

Six years later on that same date, CBS Labs introed the stereo recordings (but, back then, ya needed special equipment to hear the richer and deeper sounds).

In 1961, Del Shannon released his first hit, Runaway. (an FYI here: It’s been reported that the song threw Del into a depression because he felt that, despite other hits (Hats Off To Larry, Stranger In Town and Keep Searchin’), he was always having to play Runaway. He said, shortly before his untimely death, that the song ruined his career.)

3/27/65 was the date that The Who first showed up on American radio with a song called I Can’t Explain. It didn’t crack the Top 40, but it gained them a lotta fans (I’d become one when hearing their earlier release, Bald-Headed Woman. It didn’t break here in the U.S.)

Two years later, The Beatles won the Ivor Novello Award in England for the three best-selling British singles of 1966: Yellow Submarine, Michelle and Yesterday.

In 1971, Three Dog Night’s Joy To The World debuted on the Billboard charts, and was to become the biggest-seller of the year.

A QUICK ANSWER TO A SHORT ROCKMAIL:

Awww, it was bound to happen sometime: A reader from Louisiana asks if I’m any relation to the bizarre C&W artist known as Unknown Hinson. Answer: UNH-unh!! No WAY!! NO! NOOOOOOO!!

That guy came from a mutant Hinson strain that came from another planet! (Either that or my cousin Zebulon finally got lucky way-back-when. ‘Sides, I never use a firearm. Spitballs, maybe …)

IN THE FORE-FRONT:

Gettin’ more readers wantin’ more 411 on The Fore … some asking when they’ll be coming to America! Listen … we’re workin’ on this! It won’t be long before the mates rock this country like it hasn’t been since The Beatles!

Hey … why not help get the news out about the lads? Call yer local rockradio stations and ask ‘em to play their music! Order their CD Black & White (you’ll see how on their site) and invite everybody to listen to it! Send in write-ups to yer local paper’s entertainment pages! Get involved!! And, on their site at www.theforeband.com, join the Street Team! C’mon … make some noize about the band!!!

Now, stay tuned to In The Fore-Front for more info tomorrow (like I said, with the power outage, I’m kinda limited on time here at 5 in the AM).

UPDATE ON PETER DINTINO

THE NEWS KEEPS GETTING BETTER! Here’s Lin’s latest journal entry:

“Hello Everyone, just to give you an update. The blood clot seems to be under control, he is still under a lot of Fragmen and he doesn’t seem to be showing any symptoms of another blood clot. They did find a rash, which they are taking a biopsy of today. A rash could be a sign of a few different things; GVH, bed sores or a reaction to a medication. We won’t know anything for a couple of days though. He also had a bone marrow tap yesterday. This is AWESOME news because the motivation behind this is they believe he might be cancer free!!!! The results won’t come for a week but I am very anxious and nervous at the same time. If the results come back that he isn’t cancer free they will just re-test him in a couple of weeks. It is totally normal for the first tap to come back with some cancer remaining but my gut tells me that he will be cancer free. Please keep this in your prayers because this will have made all he has gone through, and all your prayers more than worth it!! I love you all and will update as soon as the test results come back. Thank you Love Lin”

Now, keep up yer prayers and good thoughts about Pete! Man, we’re seein’ a bonafide miracle happenin’ here …

HILTON HEAD, S. C. — A GREAT PLACE TO VACATION!

With summertime and vacations just around the corner, it’s time to start makin’ your plans now for a memorable and fulfilling one! And, bein’ from the Carolinas myself, I can tell ya that the best place to go on the Eastern Seaboard is fabulous Hilton Head Island, SC. From golf (it’s famous for that!), horseback riding, shopping or just lounging around and taking in the refreshing ocean breezes, you’ll fall in love with the area!
Of course, if you’re gonna vacation, you’ll need a really nice place to rent for your time there! And, whether it’s Sea Pines, Forest Beach or Palmetto Dunes, you’ll find rental houses and condominiums that’ll provide the maximum in beauty, comfort and enjoyment — and at prices that won’t hurt your budget!
To find out more about this wonderland called Hilton Head and the great rental properties available, all you have to do is go to this Hilton Head rental link to learn more.
Before long, you’ll find yourself relaxing in the South’s best vacation spot! So click there now, and start making plans for a fabulous vacation!

Well, that’s it for now. Until next go’round, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music (and Pete) … and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

Man, I’ve got some rock-crazy whiskerlickers (to the uninitiated: cats. Opposite of “dogs”) here. Y’see, whenever the Relic revs up his roster of rock on the PC, I get Dudette, TLC and Lucy Furr climbin’ up m’legs and crash near the speakers (they’re not declawed, natch … and neither are the kittens!)
Anywayyyyy … let’s get on with the post:

DIDJA KNOW THAT …

The first hit from Tex-Mex hitters The Sir Douglas Quintet was actually named in response to censors? Yep. Y’see, Doug Sahm was performing in a club with the SDQ and saw a couple dancin’. He had an idea for a song about the girl’s, er, gyrations and came up with She’s A Body Mover. But, because “body mover” was considered vulgar (except for morticians, I assume …), he changed it to the soundalike “She’s About A Mover”.

Disco diva (now, there’s an overworked description!) Donna Summer actually got her name … from a typo on her record label? Yep … real name: Donna Sommer! By the time it was caught, she’d gotten her fanbase … so she changed her name to the label’s spelling!

When the Beatles played the Ed Sullivan Show for the first time, over 50,000 fans applied for the 750 audience seats? Or that, during the hour of that show on Feb. 9, 1964, not one major teenage crime was reported anywhere in America? Ah, the power of rock!

That John Lennon didn’t change his middle name from “Winston” to “Ono” strictly out of love for Yoko? He did it, more so, because he disliked former PM Winston Churchill (after whom he was named) so much!

IN THE FORE-FRONT

According to the RelicMail, the lads are finally gettin’ some well-deserved recognition over here! But, y’know, I forgot to add somethin’ to the mix in the last post. See, I gave ya their website as well as a link to the Rare and Unseen: The Beatles site … but didn’t add their MySpace pages for ya!
So, for all you ForeFronters who wanna learn more about the guys, check out Luke’s, Simon’s and Matt’s pages (awww, don’t worry … I’ll getcha more about Spencer soon!).
Now, watch this space next go’round for new and exciting updates!

UPDATE ON PETE DINTINO

Here’s his angel-daughter, Lin’s, entry from Sunday:

“I hope everyone’s Easter was great. Just wanted to give you a little update. They found a blood clot in dad’s lower left lobe in his left lung. The doctors found it accidently when they reviewed the CT scan. The fact that they were even looking at the CT scan again is unfounded, the doctor said that she didn’t know why they even took a second look at it but they were sure glad they did (of course we know why). It is a small one but they reacted quickly and aggressively. They gave him double the normal dose of flagmen (10,000 vs. 5,000) and did an ultrasound of his legs. The preliminary report came back negative but they won’t know anything for sure until tomorrow. They did the ultra sound of his legs just to see if that’s where the clot originated from and to see if it had moved. They said this is common in patients when they have gone through what he has. They aren’t very worried about it but he will have to be on Coumadin for 6 months just to make sure he doesn’t form any others. Obviously this isn’t good but none the less common. He just needs to become more active, which will help his body absorb the clot and prevent him from forming new ones. He was also moved down to the 4th floor. This is just temporary until he moves to the 5th floor for rehab, which will hopefully be this week. Well each day and each new event shows us that God works in mysterious ways! I will update tomorrow as soon as I talk to the doctors. Love Lin”

Hey … keep prayin’, Rockaholics!! We’re seein’ a miracle in progress!

MAKIN’ TIME FOR YOGA

By now, most people know the benefits of a good yoga program; it’s one of the most popular forms of wellness exercise in the world! But there are still those who aren’t familiar with how it’s all done!
The best way to learn yoga is by DVD. You see, when ya do that, you can set your own pace and sidestep the high costs of hiring a personal trainer! And I’ve found just the site that offers the best yoga DVDs (I’ll give ya the link in a moment, so keep reading!)
On these DVDs, you also get a compelling soundtrack, beautiful hi-def colors, step-by-step instructions, and are introduced to the Vinyasa Flow (exercises in breath-synchronized movements that enhance your yoga experience). When ya click on their site, you’ll also find some interesting articles and news items pertaining to yoga (for example: did you know that yoga can help relieve sciatica?).
Interested?? You can find out more by visiting and ordering their fantastic yoga dvd. Do it today, and start enjoying a more peaceful and pain-free tomorrow!

IN TODAY’S NEWS:

As expected, the surviving Beach Boys have reached a tentative agreement on the rights to the name of the legendary surf-band. While details of the agreement are not yet fully available, it does set the stage for a possible (probable?) reunion of Mike Love, Al Jardine and Brian Wilson! Though not reported as in the reunion effort, it’s assumed that Bruce Johnston (who replaced Wilson in the original lineup) will resume his position with the band.

Due to the growing popularity of British rockers The Fore, I am introducing a new segment beginning today called In The FOREFRONT. This will include the latest info on the lads, including tour schedules, music and more! You’ll find the first installment at the end of this post.

Shock-rocker Alice Cooper will be getting the Stevie Ray Vaughn Award at the 4th MusiCares Musicians’ Assistance Program benefit in Tinseltown on May 9. The program emphasizes addiction recovery and sober living needs, and Cooper was chosen for his “dedication to and support of the [program] and his devotion to helping other addicts with the recovery process.”

Actress Kate Moss and her “rock-star” boyfriend were caught dancin’ on the grave … of Doors frontman Jim Morrison on Tuesday. Security at the site caught up with the two and made them stop, saying that they should show more respect for the “Lizard King’s” final resting place. Then they chewed out the gatekeeper for lettin’ them in afterhours.

IN THE FOREFRONT

While Spencer, Luke, Simon and Matt are readying for their next gig at Sutton High Street on the 24th (and according to the RelicMail I’ve been getting), we’re already seein’ a fanbase beginning to build here in America! But they’re not the only non-stampable letters the Relic’s been gettin’ lately on the fantastic four!

Just last night, I received a wonderful email from Luke’s mom, Gillian Bentley, who’s obviously (and so rightly) proud of her son and the band itself (hey … wouldn’t it be nice if moms over here would support their kids’ efforts? Wow! What a wonderful world that would be!). In her email, she writes:

“I just want to thank you so very much for showing so much interest in them and their music. Obviously I am bias but it just wonderful to think that the word is out there so many miles away. I am sure that very soon they will get the big break they deserve.

Please thank everyone for their support it is much appreciated.”

Mrs. Bentley, you’re more than welcome! And bless you for bein’ the caring, loving mom behind such a tremendously talented superstar!

Btw, new vids are gonna be posted soon with Luke (who recently joined the band) on rhythm and vocals. As soon as they’re up, you know The Relic’s gonna have the links up for ya!! Bottom line: You’re gonna ROCK!! Until then, remember to check out their site at theforeband.com for the latest on the lads (and discover for yourself the pure energy of their music. Just click on their widget!). I forecast the four Fore will be in the foreground of the rock world VERY soon!! Rockaholics, get in the ForeFront! You’re witnessing rock-n-roll history in the making!

Now … I’ll have more in the next posts, including a bit about their stint at The Cavern Club (next one up: May ). Until then, I’ve got a coupla quick notes here:

YOU HEARD HIS INSTRUMENTAL … NOW SEE THE VIDEO:

While I’m still tryin’ to load up the next coupla songs by Ron Ryan (if ya need a “refresher” on Ron’s contribution to the Dave Clark Five’s success, you can either go to his site or my post on the subject (now, for his role in Bits and Pieces, go to my HoF post.

But, for now, here’s a great vid set to Ron’s song Sunset:
The Sunset VideoThis song is © 2008 RHM Music. Used by permission of the publisher and writer. Any reproduction is expressly prohibited without prior consent from RHM Music, 9841 Mission Vega Rd. Unit 1, Santee, CA 92071

KEEP THE PRAYERS COMING, ROCKERS! The man’s still on a winning streak in his fight against leukemia. Between him, the docs, his angel-daughter lin, his friends and family, the energy that’s rock-n-roll, and The Man Upstairs, he’s pulling through this!

THE NEED TO NETWORK

Y’know, in today’s computer-based society, a solid network infrastructure is vital in businesses of all sizes. And, obviously, in order for that network to transfer information from one source to another in a hurry (for example, between doctors’ offices or hospitals), the cable has to be extremely reliable. The number of fibers it has as well as the type (singlemode, multimode or a mix of both in what’s called “hybrid” cables) can determine its connectivity.
Now, in choosing the cable that’s right for your business, you’ll also want your network service to provide cable system management, installation services, free tech support (including hotline support, where, if necessary, they can dispatch help to your site), savings on their products and more.
And the best place to find all of these is just a click away! Just follow this link for the best buy (and service)in fiber cable

Well, that’s it for this go-’round. Now, at 5:40 in the AM here, 10:40 in London (interesting. I just filed mine awhile back ..), 2:40 in the country of California, and No Time wherever Burton Cummings is now, I’m gonna take a few hours to inspect the inside of my eyelids. So, until tomorrow, remember:

Keep your eyes to the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music (and Pete Dintino) … and I’ll see ya on the flip side.

Okay … the RockMail’s been flooded with notes from fans around the US (and beyond) who just need to know more about the raw musical energy known as The Fore. Soooooo, I’m happy to oblige:

About ten miles from London, in a town called Bromley in Kent, four young men came together and created a sound not heard since the early Beatles. But they brought something to the musical table that set them apart from any other Beatlesque group: they actually had the same energy, drive, personality and power of the Fab Four within them!

These musicians — Matt Hardy on lead guitar, Spencer Hannabuss (pictured on your right, and who also writes the band’s material) on bass, Luke Bentley on rhythm guitar and Simon Thompson on drums — melded their personalities, and began, just as their famous predecessors, to perform wherever they could find a crowd: streetside, private functions, fairs and small clubs.

They finally caught the attention of the manager of the famous Cavern Club in Liverpool, and now are booked there often. Let me quote from Neil White, their publicist:

“they love them in Liverpool, no surprise maybe except the people of Liverpool are not easily fooled … in fact the manager of the Cavern wanted them to be the resident band.”

Sort of reminds you of another band, doesn’t it? In fact, these lads have all the elements of the Beatles, including their apprenticeships (playin’ the sweaty gigs in small clubs and for low-to-nothing pay), their devoted, grassroots fanbase and the true, ingrained energy that elevated the legends to the top of the charts!

In each member, you’ll see a distinct and lively personality. The intensity of Simon (pictured on the left) captivates many fans, while Luke could pass as the “kid next door”(btw, that was what Michelle M. from Toms River, NJ, observed); lead Matt looks studious and a bit quiet, while bassist Spencer not only exudes “life … maybe a hint of impishness” (again, Michelle’s observation!) but looks a bit like George Harrison.

But their sound is what’s really turning on the fans! Though they’re lookin’ for a record contract at present (and, man, it won’t be long before their names are on a lucrative dotted line!), they already have a CD out called Black & White … and even are featured (with six songs!) on the upcoming Rare and Unseen: The Beatles DVD (premiering on April 7).

Now, I’ll be addin’ more in the next post, but, until then, you can get into the ForeFront by clicking on their site. A word of warning: You will be pleasantly excited by what you’re gonna see and hear!

UPDATE ON PETER DINTINO

After a small rough spot, Pete’s still climbin’ back from his fight against leukemia! Rockaholics, I swear I’ve never seen so much courage, fight, belief and pure fortitude outta anyone before. At the rate he’s goin’, it won’t be long before he’s back behind the drumkit, rockin’ like never before! Here’s his daughter’s latest entry (read the whole thing from the beginning at his CaringBridge site for a completely awesome and inspiring story!):

“The intial tests showed nothing. He had an EDG and a Ct scan and they both came back negative. They did take a biopsy of his stomach while they were down there, that won’t come back for a couple of days but hopefully everything is okay. I am back now and he says he’s really glad. I got him to take some of his medicine PO (by mouth) and hopefully if everything comes back negative I can get him back to taking all of them. He is having minor surgery to fix his sub-clave catheter in his neck tomorrow so I’m not sure how up he will feel to phone calls but I will ask him! Thank you again for the prayers and continued support. Love Lin

Well (Y A W N !!) it’s been a long day here in Relicville, so I think I’m gonna go on and open this new pack of zzzz’s and then hit the sack. So, until tomorrow, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music (and Pete!) … and I’ll see ya on the flip side, okay?

Didja see it?? Or at least read it?? Naaah … I’m talkin’ about the latest episode of Jackass! (aka The Heather Mills Comedy Hour) Yep … she ran her yap a bit too much, sayin’ she made a half-million a week before she met McCartney, had to have scads of cash to handle her horses (she, uh, doesn’t ride now) and wine (umm, she, like … doesn’t drink now), and other ridiculous claims! But, hey … don’t just take my word for it; read the whole, ridiculous-but-funny story right here (courtesy of E! Online)!

Oh, yeah … if ya dig the American Idol-type stuff, there’s gonna be a coupla new clones comin’ up on the telly soon: MTV will have one starting April 3 called Rock The Cradle. It’ll be like AI, only with the sons and daughters of established rockers. The kids of Olivia Newton-John, Joe Walsh, Kenny Loggins, Eddie Money and the Doobie Brothers’ Tom Johnston will be performing for a chance at stardom!

Another one — this time, on CBS — starts on April 8. Secret Talents Of The Stars’ theme is to show why former stars got into showbiz. For example, Danny Bonaduce will ride a unicycle with circus performers, boxer Joe Frazier will sing R&B, George Takei (Sulu on the original Star Trek) is gonna sing country, Sheila E. is gonna juggle and Ben Stein will do the “jitterbug”. They’ll be announcing new acts soon …

Now, if your fave show’s the NCAA playoffs, keep yer eye peeled for the Bruins’ Kevin Love (a frosh with a mean shot). Y’see, he’s the nephew of Beach Boy Mike Love. (By the way, Mike and Al Jardine are tryin’ to work out some kinda settlement about the use of the Beach Boys’ name. Special guest appearance in the courtroom: Brian Wilson. If things work out, maybe … just maybe … we’ll see a reunion of the surviving originals somewhere — which is a heckuva sight better than the BB act that’s tourin’ now, IMHO)!

IN THE FOREground: First, lemme give a shout-out to all the fans who sent a RelicMail and want to know more about the group! Remember the link to their site , and bookmark it! Keep an eye on these four lads, because they’re going places with their exciting sound!

I’m gonna do an extended post about ‘em in the next few, but, ’til then, here’s a “didja know?” (heads up, Rockaholics … especially you who are JPG&R fans:)

The foursome also have six of their songs featured on the dynamite new DVD called The Beatles: Rare and Unseen (and, for a special note, read guitarist Luke’s note on-page!). Rockers, this is a must-have for every Beatlemaniac and ForeFanatics! It’s due to be released on April 7, 2008 by Liberation Entertainment. Get yer order in now!

MICK RYAN TODAY!!

I know … normally, you can catch Ron’s music in this segment; but I don’t think he’d mind if I play up his bruv just for once. After all, Mick was one of the original guitarists for The Dave Clark Five, and deserves the rock world’s appreciation! Now, in this vid, he works with the Guitar Boogie that my friend, Arthur Smith, wrote back-before-the-day, and adds his own inimitable style to it! So, without further yappin’, lemme present Ron Ryan’s brother, guitarist extraordinaire Mick Ryan … TODAY!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=tUIaOk5VYHc

THE LATEST ON PETE DINTINO

I know you’ve been keepin’ up with this amazing profile-in-courage as he battles back from leukemia. Peter’s nothing less than a miracle — seems everyone (including every reader on The Relic’s block) is pullin’ and prayin’ for his total recovery! Here’s the latest from his angel-daughter, Lin:

“Hello Everyone, well a minor step back today. I talked with the doctor and nurses today and they informed me that dad has been switched back to IV as a delivery method for all of his medication. This is a step back because he can’t begin to think about coming back until he is on PO (by mouth) delivery for his medicines. The reason why they switched him is because they are concerned about the pain in his stomach. He has been complaining about nausea and pain when he takes his pills. They weren’t concerned at first because most people have this trouble specially considering he swallows around 24 pills a day, and a lot of them are big and potent. Since he is still having trouble he has been refusing the medicine which is a cause for great concern because they are essential to the stem cells grafting. They are running a barrage of tests tomorrow to try and isolate what is causing the pain and make sure its nothing serious. Hopefully we will know tomorrow what it is and how they can fix it. Despite this set back he is still keeping up with his PT and his sundown is still improving. Please send out special prayers tonight that everything is okay or at least treatable. Love Lin” (I bold-faced that line, folks! Let’s DO it, okay?? Just stop here for a second, get reverent and lift up a prayer and positive vibe for Peter Dintino. It won’t take long for you to do that, right? In fact, I’m gonna stop a second and do it myself —–)

Thanks.

Well, that’s it for this edition (which was a day late due to a tremendous storm over RelicLand last night). So, until tomorrow, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music (and Peter) … and I’ll see ya with more … on the flip side!

WHOA!!! Now, if that ain’t enough to clabber yer grits, ain’t nothin’ gonna! (Yes, it’s a Sutthun expression! So?)

On Monday, a British judge evidently thought the poor, defenseless little bitc … ummm, Heather Mills … needed something to help her buy groceries!
So, according to the ReliContacts, she got $48.6 million — $33 mil-and-change in cash, and the rest in assets (note: she only had that word half-completed).

And Macca only has to pay 70G a year in support for their 4-year-old, Beatrice (okay … lemme ’splain why I said “only”: since when is Ms. Lookit-Me-I-Married-A-Beatle more valuable than her child? Shouldn’t the payments be the other way ’round?).
Oh … one more thing: Better read this while ya can, ’cause Fairweather Heather’s goin’ back to court tomorrow (Tuesday) to get these procedings (and the payout) sealed.

ABOUT PETER: Now, I haven’t gotten word from Lin about Pete’s doin’s today yet, but, y’know, I was just thinkin’ about him and this time of year. Y’see Easter’s a time when Christians around the globe celebrate Christ’s Resurrection. It’s interesting that, at this same time of year, we’re seein’ Pete Dintino’s resurrection from leukemia, as such. No, I’m obviously not puttin’ him on the same level as The Man; but he has gone through a terrible persecution, and it tried to ”nail him down”. But it hasn’t let it keep him down!

Anyway, it’s just a thought (hang on to it; you know I don’t have those often!) …

A NEW SONG FROM RON RYAN

(NOTE: This is actually a “two-fer”. First, you’ll hear Ron doing his song, Anyone But You — then another version of the same song, performed by the amazing rocker, John Hesterman. Now, since the site I normally use to link his songs from is now “locked” by the owner, I’m linkin’ the music from the Rock Talk site. It’ll mean more music all the time for you Rockaholics.
Btw, my present rock workload is takin’ my time away from doing the rasslin’ site, so the boss is transferring it to someone else. I’ve no problem with that, natch … “rock’s” my middle name (well, actually, its Francis, but … awww, just go with it, okay??) and my life (well, that … and havin’ a heartbeat …).

So, without further jawjackin’ from me, let me introduce you to Ron Ryan and John Hesterman, doing their respective versions of Ron’s song:

Anyone But You (Ron’s original version)

Anyone But You (Sir John of Hesterman’s version)

This song is © 2008 RHM Music. Used by permission of the publisher and writer. Any reproduction is expressly prohibited without prior consent from RHM Music, 9841 Mission Vega Rd. Unit 1, Santee, CA 92071

Once again, my thanks to Ron (and John) for graciously allowing me the opportunity to share these songs with you. Now, remember: if ya need a “refresher” on Ron’s contribution to the Dave Clark Five’s success, you can either go to his site or my post on the subject (now, for his role in Bits and Pieces, go to my HoF post.

To find out more about the magical musical machine (and fab heart) that is John Hesterman, just go to John Hesterman.com — you’re gonna be amazed by his talent and ability!! The Relic’s honored to call him “friend”, believe me!

CHOOSING THE BEST ROUTE(R)

If you’re into the wireless internet, then you know how important a router is to get your network connected. Naturally, most people would scour their phone book, check for the local businesses that offer these, drive through crazy traffic to get there (spending valuable gas in the process!), then browse through mazes, stand in lines, pay exorbitant prices … then often arrive home just to find the salesman really didn’t know much about what he was selling!
But there’s a much better way to find the router you’re looking for!
In fact, all you have to do is click on the link I’m about to give you. When you get to their site, you’ll find a store that not only has a wide variety of routers, but also offers phone support, option to search for a specific brand — even help in deciding which one’s right for you! In other words, you’ll have the store you wanted, and won’t even have to drive an inch to find it!
Oh … did I mention you also get a low price guarantee? Or fifty bucks off any purchase over fifty-one dollars?
Now, all you’ve got to do to take advantage of the savings, the guarantee, the great product line, their friendly assistance and the effortless shopping is to go to the best place to buy the superb Linksys router. So do it today, okay?

Well, that’s it for this go’round. Next up: Along with updates on Peter (and, of course, the ever-so-subtle rock news, I’ll deliver on some RockMail requests for more vidlinks to The Fore!

So, until then, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music (and Pete Dintino) … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

Awright … who didn’t dig Don & Phil back-in-the-day?? They had the closest harmonies this side of heaven; though there were other acts that had that closeness (Simon and Garfunkel, The Hollies, Chad & Jeremy), theirs were so tight that it sounded as if one had done the lead then overdubbed the harmony!

BUT DIDJA KNOW THAT …

Paul McCartney is such a fan that not only did he write a tune for one of their albums, but even mentions ”Phil and Don” in the Wings’ classic “Let ‘em In”?

In the cover of their classic When Will I Be Loved? by Linda Ronstadt, they provided some of the backing vocals? (incidentally, if ya want a very close cover of their original, ya gotta get an old copy of Liverpool’s Del Renas doin’ it in 1963!)

The Bee Gees admit to copying their harmony — and adding a third part — to achieve their sound (as evidenced in 1941 New York Mining Disaster)?

In 2003-04, they joined Simon and Garfunkel on their reunion tour as the featured act? As a special tribute, Simon and Garfunkel opened their own show and had the Everlys come out in the middle for a few songs.

Don’s daughter, Erin, was briefly married to G&R frontman, Axl Rose?

Today, Don’s 71 and semi-retired. He was born in Brownie, Kentucky. However, Phil (the harmonic one) was born in Chicago two years later (he’s 69), and recently provided harmony on an album by country superstar Vince Gill.

UNTIL I GET MORE OF RON RYAN’S MUSIC ONLINE FOR YA, listen to some of the earlier material he’d written while with Sixties bands The Walkers, The Riot Squad and The Blue Aces! If ya click on his site, Ron Ryan Music and then click on the Band Pages, you’ll find some of his early material that’ll certainly make you a fan of his, past as well as present! Tell ya what … you’re obviously at a computer already, so why not go there now? (Just left-click your mouse and open the link in a new “tab” or “window” so ya won’t lose where you are right now!) I’ll have new material on here shortly. My server’s been a bit slow lately …

UPDATES ON PETER DINTINO WILL RESUME IN THE NEXT POST

PHONE-Y BUSINESS

Y’know, running a small business can be hard if you have only the one-line, conventional phone. If you’re lookin’ for customers, deals, contracts or whatever, you’re gonna need a good business phone system to make these actually happen!
Well, there’s one place that has exactly what you need — and from the most reliable manufacturers in the business! From VoIPs(basically, internet telephoning) to PBXs (private telephone switchboards) to actually helping you design the system that’d be right for your business, they’re with you from the “get-go” — and with great prices to boot!
So, give your business the boost it needs by clicking on the following link and choosing the small business phone system that’s best for your enterprise!
You’ll be glad you did when you start seeing that much-desired increase in business (meaning, increased profits)!

Well, havin’ pulled in a near-36-hour number today, I think I’m gonna try to get a bit of shuteye before the sun comes up. So, until tomorrow (Monday) remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music (and with Pete!) … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

Latest news from the RockDesk is that rock/alt/occasional-country crooner Cheryl Crow is gonna be joining Fleetwood Mac!
Though she’s keepin’ it a bit silent (it’ll be sometime next year) she said, on Thursday, “”I don’t want to make any official announcements, but I will say that we definitely have plans for collaborating in the future, and we’ll see what happens. I’d love to do ‘The Chain’. I’d love to do ‘Second Hand News’.”

Now, the papers are calling him a “Sixties pop star”, but all that Peter MacBeth’s known for is his bass playing for the group, The Foundations (”Build Me Up, Buttercup”, “Baby, Now That I’ve Found You”) … and repeated sexual assaults on a 7-year-old girl, as well as a vast amount of child porn! Friday, a British court sentenced him to six years in jail.

Hey … Macca’s gonna be a granddad again! Yep … it’ll be his sixth! Seems his oldest (Mary) is expectin’ child #3 (the other three are Stella’s). Sir Paul’s thrilled with the news (and, between us, he oughtta have some smiles after the settlement with Heather)!

While we’re on the subject, Lisa Marie Presley — daughter of some singer from Memphis — is expecting (not just “gaining weight”, as the Daily Mail said) , and they’re gonna be twins! (Incidentally, she’s suing the DM for libel over some remarks it made about her)

I GOT A GIRL (no, not me. I’ve got cats. This is The Fore’s vid link …)
Rockaholics, you’ve heard me talkin’ about ‘em … I gave ya the link to their site (with some of their songs on the widget) on the last post. Now … get ready to see The Fore onstage, performing “live” at the Cavern Club in Liverpool! You’ll see why Matt, Simon, Spencer and Luke are turnin’ audiences on all over England! Just click on I Got A Girl … and get the feelin’ yerself!!

RON RYAN’s music will return in the next post (a few uploading difficulties has delayed it. Sorry …). Got word from one reader that “Ron’s Song” (the instrumental) was a perfect backdrop for her and hubby’s romantic evening. But the man can translate any mood into song. The Relic’s in awe of his ability!

UPDATE ON PETE DINTINO:

******************(sorry. that’s the cats’ doing. But, there again — and considering Pete’s continuing miracle, maybe a bunch of asterisks actually are fitting highlights!)

Anyway, he’s still making progress (no, not the cat. Pete!), and he’s now takin’ steps! Totally amazing … but who better to tell ya than his angel-daughter Lin, who’s kept up the journal? Here’s the latest:

“Well we’re having a good start to the weekend. Had so troubles a couple of nights ago but he’s still dealing with the “Sundowns”. He did however stand up with the help of a walker and assistance. Then he took two steps back to the chair! His first steps since he got sick! He stayed in the chair for 2 hours. This is great progress, he still needs a lot of prayers for strength. I’m hoping this week he will feel up to getting phone calls! I’ll let everyone know as soon as he is. Take care and thanks for the prayers! Love Lin”

ROCKAHOLICS AROUND THE WORLD AND CALIFORNIA: LET’S KEEP ONNNNN PRAYIN’ FOR PETE! We’re seein’ a miracle unfold before our very eyes! But he’s gonna continue needin’ your healin’ thoughts, good vibrations and prayer power, okay? So LET’S DO IT!! And thanks …

GETTING A HANDLE ON A-DOOR-ATION

Y’know, there are only a few things on a car’s body that actually spells “class”, and they’re made outta chrome (in fact, even Garfield paid homage to ‘em on one of his hilarious TV cartoon specials!).
For example, door handles are more durable, last for years, and have a sharp, ultra-clean look to them!
Now, if you want your car to look its best and classiest, at the lowest cost imaginable (in fact, where a competitor’s price is actually beaten by two bucks — guaranteed!), and want fast delivery, just click on the link for the best in chrome door handles. Believe me, you’ll be pleased with what you find!

Now … if ya don’t mind, I’m gonna open this brand-new pack of zzzzz’s and try ‘em out (geez … I can do that with my eyes closed!). So, until tomorrow, remember:

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music (and, of course, Pete) … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

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