Official Web Site of Gretchen Christopher, BMI Million Airs Songwriter, Solo Artist, Dancer/Choreographer and The Fleetwoods' Founder

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Register as a friend of Gretchen Christopher at
 http://www.myspace.com/gretchenchristopher

Register as a friend of The Fleetwoods at
 http://www.myspace.com/thefleetwoods

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A Note from Gretchen:

This Calendar reflects some of the fun parts of making my life and living in the Arts, as both a Generative Artist and a Performing Artist, and occasionally 
nourishing my soul as a member of a family or that larger family, the Audience.
In a very few instances, I have listed an event to which I have been invited but may not be present; yet I want to extend the invitation to you, to support the Arts, the Entertainers, and those for whom I am sentimental. This may be as simple as acknowledging, and celebrating in our hearts, the birth dates of some very special people.
 
  With love to share, 
 Gretchen Christopher

2005 Calendar Design  by
VICTORIA MACDONALD
Vic Mac Productions
(Click here for photo and more information.)
Send comments and questions to,
  webmaster@TheFleetwoods.com


2005 GRAMMY AWARDS

Gretchen's son, Christopher, and daughter-in-law, Gina, give birth to her first grandson!
 
Gray Thomas Fredrick Matzen, June 23, 2002,
the day Gretchen began mastering her CD at Pacific Studios in Tacoma, WA,
after recording at Yorktown Digital Studios in Dallas, TX.
(That session was delayed by the birth of Lillian Gray Helmer on Gretchen's almost birthday, February 28!)
 
Below are Gretchen Christopher & her previous "Grammy Awards",
"Twin Cousins" Avery Autumn Matzen and Kamiel Matzen Helmer,
born 2-1/2 hours apart, September 23, 2002.
 
Tessa Noel Matzen,
born Christmas morning, 2000,
 was the very first
to make Gretchen a "Grammy"!
 
 

 
 

Click photo! to enlarge

 
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1
NEW YEAR'S DAY 
2

Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine interview of Gretchen Christopher by Editor David Keys and photo shoot  by Thad Martin. The Firs, Olympia, WA

 

Cover Photo Shoot of Gretchen Christopher, by Victoria MacDonald, for Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine. The Firs, Olympia, WA

(Click to enlarge Gretchen’s favorite photo.)

Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine interview of Gretchen Christopher by Editor David Keys and photo shoot  by Thad Martin. The Firs, Olympia, WA

 

Cover Photo Shoot of Gretchen Christopher, by Victoria MacDonald, for Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine. The Firs, Olympia, WA

(Click to enlarge Gretchen’s favorite photo.)

Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine interview of Gretchen Christopher by Editor David Keys and photo shoot  by Thad Martin. The Firs, Olympia, WA

 

Cover Photo Shoot of Gretchen Christopher, by Victoria MacDonald, for Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine. The Firs, Olympia, WA

(Click to enlarge Gretchen’s favorite photo.)

Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine interview of Gretchen Christopher by Editor David Keys and photo shoot by Thad Martin. The Firs, Olympia, WA
 
Cover Photo Shoot of Gretchen Christopher, by Victoria MacDonald, for Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine, The Firs, Olympia WA 


(Click to enlarge Gretchen's favorite photo)

 
Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine interview of Gretchen Christopher by Editor David Keyes and photo shoot by Thad Martin The Firs, Olympia WA
25
Happy Birthday, to my First Love, Vos (Richard Vosburgh), from your First Love, Gretchen.
28
Birthday Greetings  to an amazing sister! "Survivor" Sonja!
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1

Gretchen Christopher, February cover, and featured interview of Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine. 
by Victoria MacDonald,
(Click photo to enlarge)

   
 Inside photo by Ramona Dorian-Bodenbender. Available at venues throughout the Northwest
 (Click photo to enlarge)

Featured Quote-

" It's very different for me to not have a producer because, in Hollywood, we adjust, we were told when the studio times were, and it was all set up- the studio musicians, everything, and we had some fine jazz players. We would arrange and rehearse counterpoint, and harmonies, a cappella, all day, we'd record at night. The Fleetwoods would finish, and Sinatra's come in... For complete text of Gretchen's "Cover shot" and interview (Page 1), (Page 2) and (Page 3-"Cover shot.).

13
Pacific Northwest Ballet, "All Stravinsky", Marion Oliver McCall Hall, Seattle WA
13 NARAS Grammy Party at Experience Music Project (EMP) (where The Fleetwoods #1 Hits/Gold Records are displayed.) Seattle Center, Seattle, WA
14 Happy Valentine's Day to "Heart" founder Roger Fisher www.rogerfisher.com
Pacific Northwest Ballet,  Marion Oliver McCall Hall, Seattle, WA
16 Happy Birthday, Broadcaster John Hendricks!
20
Pisces Birthday of Original Fleetwood, Barbara Liane Ellis (photo from Hall of Fame 2005)
(Click photo to enlarge)
22 BIRTHDAY LUNCH for BROADCASTER JOHN HENDRICKS, & GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER, hosted by SCREENWRITER VICTORIA MACDONALD, with artist Carla Stover, psychic Doug Johnston, Olympia WA
23 Pisces Birthday remembrance of Fleetwood Gretchen's Co-Songwriter, Lee J. Jackson, 1936-1999

Gretchen Christopher interviewed on Radio KBSG by Mark Christopher in support of the Venture's campaign for induction into Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

24 Pisces Birthday of Replacement Fleetwood, Gene Howard
26 Pisces Birthday of Fleetwood Gretchen's Son, Christopher Gray Matzen, (www.wacoly.com)
27 Pisces Birthday of Fleetwood Gretchen's Dance Partner, Daniel Schwartz
28
Pisces Birthday of Fellow Singer, Dick 'n' Dee Dee's Sandy St. John and LILLIAN GRAY HELMER, Grammy Gretchen's 4th "Grammy" Award. Gretchen's 4th "Grammy" Award; unexpectedly delivered (by C section) on Grammy Gretchen's birthday (or near as one can get, on a non-Leap Year.) Congratulations proud parents, KIMARI & CHRISTOPHER HELMER (and "big sister" KAMIEL (2-1/2 years.) Providence St. Peter's Hospital, Olympia, WA
(Click photo to enlarge)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL PISCES FRIENDS

29 Pisces Birthday of TheFleetwoods.com original web site's Designer, Raenell Dawn, co-founder of the Honor Society of Leap Year Day Babies (where Gretchen is #1004 on the List of Famous Leapies!)  http://leapyearday.com/FamousLeapies.htm
29
Pisces Birthday of Founder & Original Fleetwood, Gretchen Diane Christopher.      (Photo from Hall of Fame.)
(Click photo to enlarge)
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1 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FLEETWOODS, FRIENDS & PISCES! CANCELLED DALLAS FLIGHTS, RECORDING STUDIO, ENGINEER, MUSICIANS, and LODGING. Grammy Gretchen spends 2nd night at ST. PETER'S HOSPITAL with new baby and mother, agrees to postpone recording session and remain on call for Daughter Kimari's 6 week recovery from major surgery. Olympia, WA
2 Pisces Birthday remembrance of Fleetwood Barbara's husband Paul Loranger, 1943-2000
2 Pisces Birthday of Pianist, Antonio Castillo de la Gala
4 Pisces Birthday of former Disc Jockey, Ralph Koal
11 Pisces Birthday of former Seattle Times Columnist, Don Duncan
11 Pisces Birthday remembrance of Fleetwood Founder's Father, Ian Wesley Christopher, 1900-1997
12
Gretchen Christopher sings "Come Softly to Me" backed by the Ventures, whose concert and special guests support the band's campaign to be considered for Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. (Petitions signed by many of nearly 2,000 concert-goers.) Gretchen dances the finale, as all male instrumental guests gather onstage, playing, with the Ventures, another of the Ventures many hits, movie themes. Premier Club of Seattle, WA     (Click photos to enlarge)

 
It was wonderful being asked to join some of the best musicians to come out of the northwest.  I sang backups for Gretchen Christopher of the Fleetwoods with the Ventures providing the music.  Next, the Wailers joined the Ventures and brought back some fond memories.  Then I played on their version of House Of The Rising Sun.  The crowd reaction was awesome!  Then we did Hawaii Five-O and then Wipe Out with Gretchen dancing like a banshee and Alan White Joining in on drums. 
Man, we rocked the place, which was jam packed (they turned away a thousand people).  A Raucous-fun time was had by all!!  The Ventures, possibly more than any other group, deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Rog (Roger Fisher, founding Guitarist of Heart)
13 Gretchen Christopher interviewed by Jim Parsons for 90 minutes (recorded) to be edited into three broadcasts over 20 syndicated stations  by MTG Radio Network. Includes Fleetwoods' and Gretchen's recording; plus Gretchen's plugs for the Ventures ("cousins" and label mates with the FLEETWOODS on Dolton Records) and her mentions of HEART Founding Guitarist ROGER FISHER and YES Drummer ALAN WHITE (also playing in concert the night before.)
Buffalo, NEW YORK
13 Pisces Birthday of Replacement Fleetwood, Cute Cousin Karen Cone from Connecticut
18 Pacific Northwest Ballet, "THE MERRY WIDOW." Marion Oliver McCall Hall, Seattle, WA
19 Pacific Northwest Ballet, Marion Oliver McCall Hall, Seattle, WA
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  Celebration of Life of SKIP MORROW and BJ, the cockatoo and mascot. Skip founded and owned KLDY 1280 AM and KBRD RADIO, 680 AM which play "Music Skip wants to hear," a rare diversity of artist and styles including THE FLEETWOODS. Gretchen Christopher opens with "Autumn Gold." The FLEETWOODS perform "Graduation's Here", "Tragedy", "Come Softly to Me". (All except "Tragedy" were written by Christopher, and will be included in her upcoming
solo CD which may debut on KBRD/KLDY). Interview of Christopher by DARRELL ANDERSON for SEATTLE WESTERN SWING MUSIC SOCIETY NEWS. The Rose Garden, Priest Point Park, Olympia, WA
9 Lunch guest of Joyce Wilms, Washington Media Services: re; Casino Bookings, American  Legion Restaurant, Tyee Center, Tumwater, WA
12 Actress, Director, Musician, Arts Activist Helen Christopher Honored, three year ago today! Recipient of 2003 Salute to the Arts Award, "for your numerous and outstanding contributions to the Arts in the South Sound Area."

Former City Official Eldon Marshall wrote in a personal note of congratulations to Helen, dated 3/28/03, "I just want to express my thanks for your leadership in achieving the 'Performing Arts Center' for our community. If not for your efforts and persistence I doubt that we would have it today."

Worth repeating!
14 Arts Walk, Olympia, WA
15  Pacific Northwest Ballet, AMERICAN CHOREOGRAPHERS, Marion Oliver McCall Hall, Seattle, WA
26 Happy Birthday, dear brother! World Class Sail Racer James Gray Christopher
Great Grand Master Laser Sail Racing Champion of the United States, 2001-2002 and 2002-2003.Congratulations, again!

Olympia City Council Meeting; Gretchen offers to give the community a trio of singing peacocks (Gretch(hen), Lady, and
Mr. Blue) to restore history and beauty to Priest Point Park on its Centennial.

( Click here to read full text of letter sent to Mayor and Council.)

29 90th Birthday, Josie Wilson, Blue Horizon Records Label Founder, original Producer of The Ventures' music and Mother
of The Ventures' Co-Founder Don Wilson.
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  1
SEATTLE WESTERN SOCIETY NEWS, "Skip and B.J.. Sign Off" by DARRELL ANDERSON
(Click here to read full text) including performance by Gretchen and The Fleetwoods.

 

FLEETWOODS attend 90th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION of Josie Wilson , founder of BLUE HORIZON RECORDS and mother of DON WILSON of the VENTURES. Happy New Year, Josie! Fabulous Fifties Convention Center, Tacoma, WA       
 (Click photo.to enlarge)
  3 Happy Birthday, Ellie Froney.  (friends since before we were born)!

Gretchen Christopher interviewed by KATHERINE TAM and peacocks photographed by TONI L. BAILEY for the OLYMPIAN. Olympia, WA

5-12 DALLAS RECORDING SESSIONS: BMI Million Airs Songwriter ("Come Softly to Me") GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER flies from Sea-Tac to Dallas/Ft. Worth for RECORDING with Grammy Award Winning Engineer PHIL YORK (Willie Nelson's RED HEADED STRANGER, "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain")- to record her self-penned songs for autobiographical solo CD Gretchen's SWEET SIXTEEN! Irving, TEXAS
  6 Gretchen meets studio musicians, JOHN DI JULIO, Arranger/Keyboard, DANNY HUBBARD, Guitar, JERRY HANCOCK, Bass, WARREN DEWEY, Drums. Run through and record instrumental tracks and vocals,
"Come Softly To Me", "When We 2 R Married".
  7 Gretchen and studio musicians/rhythm section run through and record instrumental tracks with vocals: "Ode to Joy: A Song of  Thanksgiving:", "What Good is Pride (When You're Dying Inside)?"; "Before You Go."
  8 MOTHER'S DAY cookies created, baked and overnight expressed by darling daughter KIMARI from Olympia, WA to Mom Gretchen in Irving, Texas; so appreciated! Shared cookies with engineer and studio musicians who notated and recorded title song, "Sweet Sixteen" (one song, two time signatures, six different keys - they love it! 
  9 TOP STORIES, The OLYMPIAN Front page features GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER and PEACOCKS as her proposed gift to the CITY of OLYMPIA for PRIEST POINT PARK'S 100th Birthday.

GRETCHEN, guest of Grammy Award Winning Producer ART GRENSHAW, for elegant lunch at ZODIAC ROOM in Neiman Marcus. Dallas, TEXAS. Then back to studio, where Art, Gretchen and Phil listen to new recordings of
"Come Softly to Me" (and make CD reference copies of all other recordings for her listening, selecting.)

 10 Wedding Anniversary of Concert Producer David Harris & Glenna Gibson.

Happy Birthday, Victoria MacDonald

 10 First opportunity to exercise. For two hours, Gretchen listens and reviews all recordings while she runs on treadmill;
swims laps in hotel pool. In studio, she and Phil edit back-up vocal and record her piano track for "Graduation's Here".
 11 Performance for young men in Uniform, USA TROOPS, returning to Iraq: Gretchen's "Sweet Sixteen". "Come Softly to ME", "Before You Go". Irving, TEXAS
 12 Fly to Las Vegas, for visit over brunch and dinner. Gretchen is guest of Multi-Million-Seller Songwriter ("You're the First, the Last, My Everything") and Producer, P. STERLING RADCLIFFE (STERLING SOUNDS featured Gretchen Christopher on "City of the Angels:) In between, she critiques mixes of his upcoming release, "G.I.. Song". Sterling gifts Gretchen with computer carrying case (after strap broke on hers) for flight to Seattle. Las Vegas, NEVADA
 16 Gretchen is on air Guest of KEVIN and ARNIE AMBER, 590 AM RADIO WMBS, broadcasting "Graduation's Here", celebrating DJ/ son Kevin's graduating from University with two degrees! Congratulations, Kevin!
Uniontown, PENNSYLVANIA
23

HALL OF FAME
6:30 PM RECEPTION; 7 PM THE FLEETWOODS inducted into OHS Alumni HALL OF FAME; GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER performs title song from upcoming solo CD Gretchen's SWEET SIXTEEN! OHS Performing Arts Center, Olympia, WASHINGTON,
(Click here for complete Press Release.) 
Click on photos to enlarge

 24 DOCUMENTARY FILM: BRIAN WILSON'S SMILE, and dinner with screenwriter VICTORIA MACDONALD who proposes writing and filming documentary of GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER. The Triple Door,
Seattle, WASHINGTON.

(Memories:  When BEACH BOYS founder BRIAN WILSON and his wife were waiting to get into see us, and other of United Artists, in a special show at Whiskey A-Go-Go, in Hollywood, mid-1970s, Brian's wife told him THE FLEETWOODS were her favorite group!)

 28 Gretchen Christopher interview, broadcast live. OLDIES UNLIMITED WITH ARNIE AND KEVIN, 590 AM RADIO WMBS, Uniontown, PA
 31 Happy Birthday to P. STERLING RADCLIFFE, songwriter/producer who celebrates 76th Birthday - sends Gretchen a stuffed pooch that sings his biggest hit, "You're the First, the Last, My Everything"! Happy new year, Sterling!
Las Vegas, NEVADA.
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3 Pacific Northwest Ballet, SILVER LINING , Marion Oliver McCall Hall, Seattle, WA
4

PRIEST POINT PARK'S 100th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION! 11A.M.-5 P.M. 12:30 P.M.-GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER sings. (Sound check to "Unchained Melody'.) Commemorative performance includes #1 Hit "Come Softly to Me", "Ode to Joy: A Song of Thanksgiving" and "Sweet Sixteen" -  all sung to tracks for upcoming solo CD, Gretchen's SWEET SIXTEEN! Peacock feathers and photos available for souvenirs and signing. Priest Point Park, Olympia, WA
Click photo to enlarge

TCTV interviews Gretchen at Priest Point Park with her peacocks' "feathers for souvenirs."

FIFTIES DINER, neat place! Vos and I are dinner guest of owner, Loren, discuss entertainment and promotion.
THE FLEETWOODS' "(He's) The Great Impostor", AMERICAN GRAFFITI soundtrack, now included on jukebox
of the FIFTIES DINER, 5th and Railroad Ave., Shelton, WA
 

8 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Niece, SHARON CHRISTOPHER NARANJO ( Jim and Gina's daughter.)
18 PACIFIC STUDIOS, transfer DA 88 to Pro Tools, Tacoma, WA
23 Gretchen and Marcus Simmons edit Dallas Recordings, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WA
23 Arrival of Gretchen's 5th "Grammy Award" and 1st Grandson: GRAY THOMAS FREDERICK MATZEN, born to
Gina and Christopher Gray Matzen, at home, with midwives (Gina labored four hours; Christ caught the baby and cut the umbilical cord), on birthday of baby's Great Uncle Bill (my brother) - William Ian Christopher, Happy Birthday to you both, Brother Bill and Grandbaby Gray!

"Gray Thomas Frederick Matzen, Welcome to our World" 
 
 

 
 

Click here for larger image

 

24 Remembering The Fleetwoods' Producer, Dolphin/Dolton Records President Robert Reisdorff, born 84 years ago this day,
and who, three years ago, June 15th, passed away. He may be gone, but the beautiful, ground-breaking, now-classic music
he produced lives on. We love you Bob!
27 In remembrance of Lenore O'Connor Severson
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   4

FRIENDS & FAMILY "FOURTH" AT THE FIRS!
4PM to who knows when?

A good friend was born on the 4th of July

Which gives an additional reason why

We're gathering here at The Firs on the 4th

To celebrate Chuck and our nation of course!

 

It's POT LUCK; so bring something yummy to share

Food Drink or Fireworks to light the night air.

Your friends, too, are welcome to join in the feast

Vos will bring shellfish, fresh from the beach.

 

All ages are welcome, from my newborn first grandson

(Due June 22nd) to Mom (the Great Grand one)

Who'll be 96, the 30th of July.

Why Wait? Let's celebrate; spirits sky high!

Come after 4 (by land or by bay)

You may stay for the waterfront fireworks display

(We prefer the "beauty" instead of the "bang!"

And music is welcome (we can do our "thang"!)

 

Suzanne McCurley will come clear from Texas

(where I recorded some songs, which we'll play. If  you'll ask us)

So her friend and yours and our families are all welcome

"Come Softly" (or otherwise) to The Firs for some swell fun!

 

See you there; love to share

Gretchen (Christopher)

The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WA

(Click photos to enlarge)

Family Fourth of July photo
Helmers: Kamiel on Chris's shoulders; Lilli in Kimari's arms; "Nana" (in stripes, great grandmother Helen Christopher) and Grammy Gretchen (red).  Back row: (Gina's family) sister Jane Knoke Schmitt, parents Bud & Gloria Knoke.
Front Row: Chris Matzen holding Avery & Tessa; Gina Knoke Matzen holding Gray (11 days old)!

Gretchen (at Piano) and Grandchildren watch Chuck Dreyer
& Birthday Cake, with Helen Christopher, soon to be 96,


 

   5

(Click photos to enlarge)

Suzanne McCurley and Donna Pallo-Perez at Gretchen's
beach, then off to climb Mount Rainier.

Gretchen and Suzanne McCurley (L) breakfast on the deck of The Firs on Budd Inlet.

   5 WEDDING DANCE INSTRUCTION (Swingin' Social Dance Basics) #1 for Jamie and Joseph's wedding, August 27. Select music and begin choreography, triple swing. Gretchen's Instruction and demonstration assisted by "Vos", except next class. The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WASHINGTON
   6 WEDDING DANCE INSTRUCTION (Swingin' Social Dance Basics) #1 for Jamie and Joseph's wedding, August 27. Confirm music and continue choreography, triple swing; introduce Fox Trot, Waltz; Gretchen's instruction and demonstration assisted by Chuck Dreyer. The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WASHINGTON
   7 RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON
   13 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARKUS SIMMONS! ( OWNER, PACIFIC STUDIOS) Tacoma, WASHINGTON
13-14 RECORD and EDIT with PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON

CAPITAL LAKEFAIR performance of GEOFFREY CASTLE BAND, Main Stage Screenwriter VICTORIA MACDONALD, and I delivered my new Dallas track of "What Good is Pride?" to ROGER FISHER who announces,
"I'd like to dedicate this next song to LAKEFAIR'S very FIRST PRINCESS GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER!"
( The song was appropriately their softest of the evening, a Rog original about "Rain".
Heritage Park, Olympia, WASHINGTON.

   15 CAPITOL LAKEFAIR, STREET DANCE & VINTAGE CAR SHOW. Featuring GEORGE BARNER &
THE CORVETTES. Impromptu SWING DANCE/LINDY HOP exhibition by DONNA PALLO-PEREZ and
GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER. Marathon Park, Olympia, WASHINGTON
   19 WEDDING DANCE INSTRUCTION (Swingin' Social Dance Basics) #3 for Jamie and Joseph's wedding, August 27. Choreography, triple swing, fox trot with hoop skirt. The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WASHINGTON
   20 OLYMPIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERTS IN THE PARK. Top notch performances brought memories of decades gone by and Dad, Ian Christopher, who played flute and cello in OSO for 33 of his almost 97 years. As a sort of valentine to him (79 in 1979), I wrote (published by Gannet) a story about the OSO. Conductor Ian Edlund credited and thanked me for the story's drawing a capacity crowd, the largest that OSO had enjoyed. Upon Dad's retiring from the Symphony three years later, at age 82, he and Mom (Helen Christopher) were honored with Lifetime Season Tickets to the Symphony).
Sylvester Park, Olympia, WASHINGTON
   21 MARCUS SIMMONS records GRETCHEN, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON
   24 BOB GATES records GRETCHEN, "I Am An Angel". FLEETWOODS rehearsal. The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WASHINGTON.
   26 12-4 P.M.) MARCUS SIMMONS records GRETCHEN, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON

6 P.M. WEDDING DANCE INSTRUCTION (Swingin' Social Dance Basics) #4 for Jamie and Joseph's wedding, August 27. The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WASHINGTON

   27 49th ANNIVERSARY of the day VOS and GRETCHEN first met (Gretchen was SWEET SIXTEEN! Celebrated with rowboat ride (again) and, next day, waterfront lunch at Tugboat Annie's restaurant. Budd Inlet, Olympia, WASHINGTON.
   28 10:00A.M.-3:00 P.M. RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON

7 P.M. WEDDING DANCE INSTRUCTION (Swingin' Social Dance Basics) #5 for Jamie and Joseph's wedding, August 27. Rehears in hoop skirt. The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WASHINGTON

   29 Fly SEA-TAC to OAKLAND, Gretchen's flight is met by sister-in law, GINA and my brother, JIM CHRISTOPHER who had driven from Eureka, CALIFORNIA. We then met their daughter's flight, SHARON CHRISTOPHER NARANJO (my niece). We all stay overnight at my sister SONJA CHRISTOPHER'S in Walnut Creek, CALIFORNIA
   30
HAPPY 96th BIRTHDAY, DEAR MOM! Phone Olympia, WA from CA; sang and played special arrangement of "Happy Birthday" before JULY 30: WEDDING REHEARSAL LUNCHEON, hosted by Sonja and Gail, Mill Valley, CALIFORNIA
Click on photo to enlarge
   31 Wedding of (Gretchen's nephew) Dan Shumaker, and Toni Naylor. CONGRATULATIONS! Impromptu SWING DANCE EXHIBITIONS by ChrisTAN & GRETCHEN. Post gathering at motel suite of my daughter KIMARI and her husband CHRIS HELMER, baby Lilli and Kamiel who suddenly suffers projectile vomiting. Food poisoning or flu? Mill Valley, CALIFORNIA

(Click here to view Daniel Shumaker and Toni Naylor's wedding invitation.)

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1 SHARON and I SHOPPED and bought TWO SWING DANCE SKIRTS, Walnut Creek, CALIFORNIA. Sharon flies to Albuquerque, New Mexico. I fly OAKLAND to SEA-TAC greeted by Vos and driven home to Olympia, from airport, Seattle, WASHINGTON.
4- SURVIVOR (sis) SONJA CHRISTOPHER ("15 minutes of fame" fanned by TV's recent replay of the original SURVIVOR Series) flies in with GAIL from California, for 3 days of family celebrations, pot luck including Christopher's, Matzen's. Alvord's at (my former Brother-in-law) ED and Marie's new home, recently moved from Walnut Creek, CA to Olympia, WA
5 5th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY of GINA& CHRIS (GC's son) LEO BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS of HELEN CHRISTOPHER (Mom, 96 on 7/30) and GINA (my daughter in law; 38 on 8/4) I happily host
(as Helmer's have had flu) family of 15 Pot Luck at The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WA
6 FAMILY POTLUCK AT JOYCE & RICH (my former husband). My brother Bill takes Mom home early sick,
I follow, before dessert, to assist. Tumwater, WASHINGTON
7 Birthday of Eva (Mrs. Roger Fisher, wife of Heart's Founding Guitarist)
7 SONJA and GAIL fly to OAKLAND, CA. I call to see how Mom is  (diarrheic), drive out to assist her with bathing, dressing. Bill arrives and fixes her breakfast. Mom says, "the princes and princess gather to assist the Queen," and giggles.
Panorama City, WASHINGTON
8

LOUISE HAUCK (INTUITER/AUTHOR) VICTORIA MACDONALD (SCREENWRITER)
GRETCHEN CHRISTOPHER (SONGWRITER/RECORDING ARTIST) at Centennial Amtrak Station,
East Olympia, after
lunchtime creative exchange at The Firs on Budd Inlet.
At Victoria's request, Gretchen played and sang, "I Am An Angel" and "Come Softly To Me" for Louise
before her train to Gresham, OREGON, for unveiling of 3rd book, "Fearless Future".
Olympia, WASHINGTON.

Click on photo to enlarge   

REGULAR WEEKLY WORKOUT

1 hour Body Pump, 1 hour Body Step. Take Mom out to dinner, visit, help with medical needs, do laundry, spend night at  Panorama City, WA

9 RECORDING PACIFIC STUDIOS, postponed due to their painting.
10 WEDDING DANCE INSTRUCTION (Swingin' Social Dance Basics) #6 for Jamie and Joseph's wedding, August 27.
The First on Budd Inlet, Olympia WASHINGTON
11 (11-A.M.-2P.M) RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS, in midst of remodel and painting. Studio Owner-Engineer MARKUS SIMMONS and I are affected by paint fumes. I've not felt like eating . He goes out for fresh air twice; when I finally do, I collapse on sidewalk. He brings out chair, sees me start to faint again, calls 911. I make it to toilet a moment later. Two fire engines and rescue unit and a half dozen firemen and one woman come, take my blood pressure (low), want to take me to ER. Magically, my life-long friend ELLIE FRONEY appears. (She didn't know I was in Tacoma, happened to drive by, saw Emergency units near studio circle and saw "Gretchen sitting on chair on sidewalk", surrounded by handsome firemen!" I'm wheeled on gurney and into the ambulance, but I protest to Marcus and firemen, "This is too dramatic and expensive. I'd rather spend my money on recording!"; so I accept Ellie's offer to drive me. She can't find Emergency entrance to hospital, so I get my wish for Urgent Care at Group Health. Many test and five hours late I'm released about 7P.M., after being treated for dehydration, having fluids replaced by IV. Elli takes me to her home where I eat small amounts of steamed veggies, and rice and spend the night.( and in the morning I write this account.). Tacoma, WASHINGTON                                                
12 (11 A.M.-6 P.m.) RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS; cancelled due to fumes and installing new floor, Tacoma, Washington
14 August 14th and 15th
GRETCHEN'S "SWEET SIXTEEN" CONCERT       www.pnwbands.com/mm2k4.html
18 (10 A.M.-6 P.m.) RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS; cancelled due to fumes and installing new floor, Tacoma, Washington
25 (10 A.M.-6 P.m.) RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS; cancelled due to fumes and installing new floor, Tacoma, Washington
27 BRIDE JAMIE HAMILTON & GROOM JOSEPH LAMPITT's WEDDING & PERFORMANCE of CHOREOGRAPHED FIRST DANCE. (Click here to view dance)

(Can't wait to see the video of Choreography; it was such a pleasure helping create a wedding dance that would impress friends and amaze family. Previously sent gift CD of MR. BLUE, containing "I Care So Much" to which Vos and I had demonstrated Double Swing.) CONGRATULATIONS to a beautiful couple! Port Gamble, WASHINGTON.

PLANET MARS spectacular closest to Earth, ever! Solar System UNIVERSE.

27 Tug Boat Race Party, Potluck & Jam with Gretchen Christopher! By Invitation, at The Firs on Budd Inlet, culminating Olympia Harbor Days, Olympia,  WA
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   1 RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON
   8 RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON
14-15 RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON
22-23 RECORD MASTERING POSTPONED DUE TO DEATH OF ENGINEER'S AUNT AND
HIS FLIGHT TO AUSTRIA
   23 HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY OF "TWIN" COUSINS, Kamiel Matzen Helmer & Avery Autumn Matzen, born the very same morning -- September 23, 2002 -- to "Grammy" Gretchen's daughter and son (and their spouses : )
22-24 PACIFIC NORTHWEST BALLET, Marion Oliver McCall Hall, Seattle, WA

2005-2006 Season Performance Details

Rep !: Director's Choice, September 22-October 2, 2005

Peter Boal's selection of works from three of the most important choreographers of the last 100 years. An introductory gift from PNB's new Artistic Director, Boal says, "I want to give you a program to remember."

In the Night (Frederic Chopin/Jerome Robbins)

One of Robbin's most celebrated works, In the Night is a series of intimate pas de deux set to a selection of Chopin nocturnes for solo piano

Artifact II (Johann Sebastian Bach/ William Forsythe)

A stunning Forsythe masterpiece, Artifact II returns to PNB with its powerful configurations that redefine ballet for the
modern age. Duo Concertant (Igor Stravinsky/George Balanchine.)

A welcome addition to PNB's repertory. Duo features two dancers reflecting and responding to each other and to the solo violinist and pianist who join them onstage. Symphony in Three Movements' jazz-flavored score is propelled by the driving energy of a large ensemble cast in this Balanchine work characterized as raw, unleashed and dangerous.

7;30 P.M. .Sept.22-24

2:00 p.m. Sept. 24, Sept 29- Oct.1

1:00 p.m. Oct. 2 

   29 RECORD, PACIFIC STUDIOS, Tacoma, WASHINGTON
   29 RECORD MASTERING   
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VOCAL COACHING, Individual or Vocal Group, by appointment, call Gold Cup Music (360) 866-7866.
 1-2 MELISSA MANCHESTER, WASHINGTON CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,
Olympia WASHINGTON

Shake Rattle Showtime schedule of times,   (Click here for page one of times) (Click here for page two of times)

 2-14 SWEET SIXTEEN PROMOTIONAL TOUR: LONDON, ENGLAND, EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND, ATHENS, GREECE promoting Gretchen's SWEET SIXTEEN!
   2 Fly SEA-TAC to HEATHROW, LONDON, ENGLAND
 2-11 London with side trip to EDINBURGH
  11 London
11-14 Athens
  14  London, Vancouver, BC and Seattle
  23 Make A Difference Day
  31 Happy Halloween
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 10 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, my darling Daughter, KIMARI 
3-13 PACIFIC NORTHWEST BALLET, Marion Oliver McCall Hall, Seattle, WA

Rep 11: Past, present and Future 3-13, 2005, Mc Caw Hall, Seattle, WA

Four treasures of music and dance reveal the remarkable diversity of PNB and present a sweeping view of our past, present and future. Concerto Barocco (Johann Sebastian Bach/George Balanchine) Balanchine's consummate visualization of Bach's Double Violin impeccable staged by Francia Russell.

Jardi Tancat (Maria del Mar Bonet/ Nacho Duato)

Nacho Duato's signature work danced to haunting traditional Catalonian songs. World Premiere! (TBD/Marco Goecke)
Catch a thrilling glimpse of the future from one of today's most rapidly rising young European choreographers: Marco Goecke from his first wok for PNB.

Hail to the Conquering Hero (George Frederic Handel/Kent Stowell) Kent Stowell's magisterial tribute to the baroque splendor of Handel featuring Seattle Choral Company

7:30 p.m., Nov 3-5 and 10-12, 2:00 p.m., Nov. 5, 1:00 p.m., Nov. 13

 22 Nov.22: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Nephew DANIEL PRICE SHUMAKER, (Sonja's son)
 25 Happy Thanksgiving! So much to be thankful for: including reunions with family, former in-laws, now friends!
Love is forever, it just takes different forms!
 28
Happy Birthday, GARY ROBERT TROXEL, an Original Fleetwood. We who are left to carry on appreciate your contribution to the original sound and especially your unforgettable "Umn Dooby Doo, Dom Dom" back-up, which Gretchen arranged in counterpoint to include you in the song, "Come Softly To Me," and musical history! 
Click on photo to enlarge
30 Hear Gretchen Christopher read her Poem for Dick Clark  (Click Here)
 30

Dick Clark, welcome back and congratulations on recovery from your stroke! We love you and look forward to your ringing in the New Year at Time Square.

"Happy Birthday, Dick Clark!"
from Gretchen Christopher

November 30th! Another year older?
Don't be "Mr. Blue"
Dick Clark, you're loved the whole world over.
These greetings attest it's true.

How many teens might have lost their way
Had Bandstand not been born?
"Lovers By Night, Strangers By Day,"
All of us would mourn.

Another man spinning hits in your place
May help them climb the roster,
But millions of us who know your face
Say, "He's The Great Imposter."

"Outside My Window," you may "Runaround"
Or retreat to your Caribbean pleasures.
Wherever you go, good wishes abound;
You're one of our national treasures.

"Goodnight My Love," you're "The Last One To Know"
"You Mean Everything To Me"
Since the first time we Fleetwoods were on your show
And sang "Come Softly To Me."

Some feel each birthday's a "Tragedy"
("Graduation's Here" and gone)
But with you, dear Dick, we're eternally young;
The music plays on and on!

- by Gretchen Christopher copyright 1992, All Rights Reserved -
 

Early photo of Gretchen and Dick

Dick and Gretchen.

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7 Parade of Lighted Ships, viewed from The Firs on Budd Inlet, and Parade of Lights Party, featuring Gretchen Christopher's song, "Christmas Is (Anytime I'm With) You".
10 Parade of Lighted Ships & Parade of Lights Party . The Firs on Budd Inlet, Olympia, WA.
25 Wishing you Warm & Wonder-filled Holidays blessed with Health & Happiness and a New Year of Working & Playing together in Peace, throughout the World! Happy Fifth Birthday, Tessa, (my very first Grammy Award.)
  Dick Clark to ring in the New Year at Time Square! New York, NY.

Order autographed SWEET SIXTEEN! (SUITE 16) CD here 

Order autographed "Mr. Blue" CD here!

 

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Treble clef image courtesy of Lisabeth's Music Images at  http://www.gymell.com/doc/musicimages.shtml

 


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