RYAN's AUTOGRAPH SUCCESSES

Monthly recap: November & December 2007

2008-01-01T13:40:00.000-08:00

Here's the final monthly recaps for the last two months. Since my hobby has slowed down some I'll be moving this to a quarterly feature in the new year. Stand by for a Year End Recap post coming soon.

Monthly recap: December 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 1 (contest win)

Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0

Pre prints: 0

RTS: 0

Other: 0

Total sent out in December: 0

Monthly recap: November 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 1

Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0

Pre prints: 0

RTS: 0

Other: 2 In Person's

Total sent out in November: 0

And the winner is .....

2007-12-21T09:35:00.001-08:00

First of all thank you for checking back into my blog. I want to take this time to wish you a Very Merry Christmas and the best New Year ever! Now onto business. I was beginning to think I wouldn't score a success at all this month, but luck helped me out.

Kirsten Dunst - Won In A Contest/Date Signed: Unknown. Lon at Strickler's Celebrity Autographs had a contest posted last week through his My Space page to win a Johnny Depp autographed photo. I entered the contest but didn't win the grand prize Depp photo, instead winning a runner up prize, an autographed photo of Kirsten Dunst. I was really happy to get her because 1. She isn't that easy to get and 2. She plays Mary Jane Watson in the "Spider-man" movies, and you know how I like to collect autographs from people in comic book movies. It was an absolutely free win and shipped super fast after I was notified of my win. Thanks Lon. Make sure to check out his site, he has some very nice pieces for sale.

Kirsten Dunst (click to enlarge)

20 years later...this Judds for you

2007-11-18T17:19:00.000-08:00

I have to tell you how much fun I've been having updating & working on my blog again. Maybe that will re motivate me to start back up in sending out requests. In the mean time, here's a In Person success from this afternoon.

Naomi Judd - In Person: 11/18/07. On August 14, 1987 I had front row seats to see The Judds. It was the second concert I ever went to in my life and I ended up getting to sing "Mama He's Crazy" with them that evening. I brought their "Heartland" album with me in hopes of getting an autograph and was lucky enough to get Wynonna to sign it that evening. Throughout the years I've had the chance to meet Naomi a few times and I had her sign other items for me (CD inserts, 8x10's, books, etc). She was lecturing today at an area expo so my mom & I went to see her. I really didn't know what to get signed by her because I had so much stuff already. Then I remembered this album. So now 20 years later I completed the autograph on the album by adding Naomi to it.

(above) The back cover of the vinyl "Heartland" album signed by The Judds. (Wynonna signed it August 14, 1987), Naomi signed it this afternoon. I know the scan looks a little odd so I wanted to also show you the front. That scan (below) happens to be the CD version front cover insert that I had signed by both back in 1993. "Heartland" was always my favorite album The Judds did.

Oh what a Knight

2007-11-16T17:06:00.000-08:00

To some Christopher Knight will only be "Peter Brady", to others (mostly younger new generation fans) he's the guy from the Vh1 reality shows. To me he's both. I had tried several times to get him through the mail with no luck. Now I have an In Person success.

Christopher Knight - In Person: 11/15/07. Last night I had the chance to meet Christopher Knight when he re dedicated a mall in my area. It took about 90 minutes waiting in his autograph line, but it was worth it because he was very personable, wasn't rushing people through and wasn't charging for his autograph. He signed a photo for me and the Brady Bunch photo that I brought with me (previously signed by creator Sherwood Schwartz). His wife Adrianne Curry wasn't with him but I did bring the autographed photo I had of her to show him. He laughed when he saw it. The new season of his reality show (with Adrianne) "My Fair Brady" starts January 24, 2008 on VH1. I'll be watching.

(above) Now (below) then

"Ryan - Don't play ball in the house!" is inscribed on my "Brady Bunch" photo (which was previously signed by Sherwood Schwartz, the shows creator).

SHAZAM! A New autograph

2007-11-01T20:42:00.000-07:00

Today's success is dedicated to the staff of my old post office. I have long since moved and they still made sure this autograph found it's way to me. They are great folks who I miss seeing as frequently as I used to.

John Davey - Sent: 5/13/04 Received: 11/1/07. After three plus years you tend to give up on thinking a success will come back. This disproves that theory. "Shazam" was a TV show I loved when I was a child. I had the chance to meet Jackson Bostwick (the first actor who played Captain Marvel) at an autograph convention a few years ago in Chicago. Today I add John Davey, the second actor who played the role to my collection. I sent him a photo and index card which he signed and returned with another photo of his own and a personal letter which showed off his great sense of humor. Right now Michael Gray ("Shazam" co star & pictured in the photos) isn't signing items (according to his website) but when he resumes, I plan on sending the top photo to him to complete it.

(above) The "Shazam" photo I sent to John Davey. (below) The photo and personal letter he sent me in return.

Monthly recap x 3

2007-10-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! Here's a summary of how the last 3 months have been for my autograph collection.

Monthly recap: October 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 1

Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0

Pre prints: 0

RTS: 0

Other: 2 In Person's

Total sent out in October: 0

Monthly recap: September 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 1

Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0

Pre prints: 0

RTS: 0

Other: 1 In Person

Total sent out in September: 0

Monthly recap: August 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 2

Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0

Pre prints: 0

RTS: 0

Other: 2 (convention purchases)

Total sent out in August: 0

The B*tch is back (with a new autograph)

2007-10-13T21:35:00.000-07:00

How many people can say "Oh I met Elton John this weekend"? We'll I can! I still can't believe it.

Elton John - In Person: 10/12/2007. How exciting was this! Not only did I get a chance to see Elton John in concert last night, but before his show I had the opportunity to go backstage to meet Sir Elton himself! Before he came in to visit with our small group (only 6 of us had this special VIP treatment), his personal assistant brought Elton's dog, Arthur in for us to meet. Arthur travels everywhere with Elton and knows several "tricks" which he demonstrated for us. About 15 minutes before showtime Elton arrived outside of the hospitality room, riding in the back of a golf cart. He was a little quiet but personable. No diva behavior! He was kind enough to pose for a picture with me and sign his current CD. What an incredible autograph to go with an incredible show. Over two and a half hours of Elton and his band performing hit after hit. He was amazing. Special thanks to my dear friend Monica who offered me (yet another) once in a lifetime opportunity that I will never forget.

(above) my In Person autograph from Elton John

(below) - Proof! LOL. My photo with Sir Elton.

Stone cold country

2007-10-08T21:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in updating my blog. I haven't been sending out much recently so I'm not getting a whole lot back. Don't give up on this blog though, we have lots of good stuff still to come.

Doug Stone - In Person: 10/8/07. I had a chance to spend some time with country music singer Doug Stone today. He was very nice, funny and very open about his life (the good and the bad times). He signed a photo and a CD insert for me. His hits include "I'd Be Better Off In A Pinebox", "In A Different Light", "Why Didn't I Think Of That" and "Too Busy Being In Love". Doug told me they are in the early stages of getting a ghost writer to write his life's story. Doug's lead a very (almost soap opera like) life. That's a book I'd definitely read.

Doug Stone autographed photo

Richard Burgi part 2

2007-10-07T18:46:00.000-07:00

I have to admit between the two successes I received from Richard Burgi, I like this one better. Personalization will win every time with me!

Richard Burgi - Sent: 11/1/06 Received: 10/6/07. We'll ask and you shall receive. I was surprised to get this photo of Richard Burgi, since I just received a success from him a few weeks ago. The difference is, this one was personalized. Yeah! I only wrote to him once. One of my successes came back in my self addressed stamped envelope, the other in his own envelope. Besides his work on "Desperate Housewives", Richard is also known for "The Sentinel" (as this publicity photo shows), "24" and "Judging Amy". He also was the original network choice to play the title role in the TV series "The Flash".

Richard Burgi (again) - click to enlarge

Richard Burgi Part 1

2007-09-28T21:47:00.001-07:00

Even though I'm still on a major "high" from meeting Lynda Carter, I want to take a moment out to pay tribute to a great actress that we just recently lost. Alice Ghostley passed away last Friday, September 21st. She was an incredibly funny woman who entertained and made me laugh so many times in my life from the work she did on "Bewitched", "Grease" & "Designing Women" (among other numerous shows). I tried many times to get her autograph and succeeded once. (See my September 12, 2005 posting). It's an autograph I treasured then and treasure even more now. RIP Alice Ghostley 1926-2007.

Richard Burgi - Sent: 11/1/07 Received: 9/28/07. I almost didn't recognize this when it first came in, but it's Richard Burgi from "Desperate Housewives". (He plays "Karl Mayer" on the show). I wasn't sure either if it was an auto pen or pre-print but after further examination, I'm pretty sure it's authentic. Wish it was personalized though.

Richard Burgi (click to enlarge)

My Number One (duhr) Woman!

2007-09-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

DREAMS DO COME TRUE!

I started collecting autographs because I wanted Lynda Carter's autograph. I used to joke that I only wrote to other people for something to do while I waited for Lynda to respond. At times I never thought I'd get her, but now I have achieved that goal several times. A few through the mail, once from a friend who got it for me In Person, and now I got my own autograph In Person as last night I met Lynda Carter!

Lynda Carter - In Person: 9/15/07. Lynda has been "testing the waters" in her singing career by doing select dates in the US this year, all of them so far in California. When I heard she was bringing her tour to Chicago for six nights of performances, I knew I had to go to at least one. Not only did I have a front row (dead center) seat for the show, my friend & I were invited to be part of her meet & greet afterwords. Never in my life did I think I would see her with my own eyes, let alone get to meet her. The show was great (even better than I thought it would be) and meeting her was a dream come true. It's a gamble sometimes to meet someone who's work you enjoy so much because sometimes they don't live up to your expectations. Lynda wasn't like what I thought she would be in person - she was even better! I got to meet her right before her manager put her on vocal silence (to save her voice for the last show they had to do the next evening). From what I've been told, after the meet & greet she exited the main lobby and shook hands with as many people as she could on her way out but wasn't able to stop to sign autographs or take photos with fans. I see that I was even more blessed by getting the chance to spend more time with her than most people did that evening, plus get autographs and a photo taken with her. No matter what has happened or will happen this will always be a shining memory for me in my life.

(above) This is a digital picture of the 20 x 24 photo that Lynda signed for me. (below) A close up of the inscription on the photo (minus the camera flash that the top photo had)

"To Ryan- You are wonderful! Love, Lynda Carter 2007"

You can read more about this special evening and see other photos of Lynda and I together by clicking here.

Mail from the 4077

2007-08-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

Even though I haven't been sending out requests, it still makes me smile to go downstairs and see a new success waiting for me like the one I received today.

Wayne Rogers - Sent: 6/12/06 Received: 8/21/07. Wayne Rogers is best remembered for playing "Army Capt. "Trapper John" McIntyre" on "M*A*S*H*" for the shows first three seasons. Actually he was the second of three actors to play that role. (Elliott Gould played it in the film version and Pernell Roberts did in the TV series). Although it took some time to get the reply it was worth it as Wayne responded with this very cool vintage photo. Although it's been a few years since his last acting project he's kept busy as a successful businessman and investor.

Wayne Rogers (click to enlarge)

A photo for my Van Ark-ives

2007-08-09T17:35:00.000-07:00

I remember Thursday nights as being popcorn night in front of the TV watching "Knots Landing" with my mom. Today's success comes from one of the stars of that series.

Joan Van Ark - Sent: 1/11/07 Received: 8/9/07. This success has all the right stuff. A beautiful picture, name recognition and shows she read my letter. What a gorgeous photo of Joan Van Ark (best known as "Valene 'Val' Ewing" on "Knots Landing"). Did you know "Knots" wasn't the first time she worked with co-star Ted Shackelford? They both guested on an episode of "Wonder Woman" a year before "Knots" began production. Speaking of, one of my friends recently saw Joan in the audience during one of Lynda Carter's California concerts. They must have stayed in touch as friends after working together. Joan has another super hero tie in, as she was the voice of "Spider-woman" in the Saturday morning cartoon of the same name from 1979. I found it interesting that Joan Van Ark collects Joan of Arc. I'm very glad I wrote to her, this is an awesome success.

Joan Van Ark (click to enlarge)

Double trouble

2007-08-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

Here's an autograph that was obtained last month, but didn't arrive at my door step until today. (It will be credited in my August recap).

Jean Sagel & Liz Sagel - In Person: 7/20/07 . There was a mini Grease 2 reunion at an autograph convention in California a few weeks ago which included Jean & Liz Sagel, the "Sorority Twins" from Grease 2. You never see these girls doing conventions so I couldn't pass up the chance to snag them for my 'Grease 2' collection. Todd attended the convention and picked up this awesome photo (which I had never seen before) and got a double signature on it for me. Photos of them from this movie are about as rare as their public appearances. Even though the girls are remembered more for their TV show "Double Trouble", I will always remember them first as part of the "Grease 2" cast.

Double signatures makes Ryan twice as happy (Jean & Liz Sagel)

Monthly recaps: June & July

2007-08-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

Things have slowed down since I haven't had time to send out new requests. Here's how the last two months stacked up for me:

Monthly recap: July 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 1

Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0

Pre prints: 0

RTS: 0

Other: 4 In-Persons

Total sent out in July: 0

Monthly recap: June 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 2

Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0

Pre prints: 0

RTS: 0

Other: 9 In-Persons

Total sent out in June: 0

The whole SheBang!

2007-07-30T09:43:00.000-07:00

A nearby county fair had a good country music concert Friday night that I attended.

Joe Nichols - In-Person: 7/27/07. Last summer Joe was scheduled to perform at the country music festival I talked about a few posts ago. It rained so hard and delayed his show so late that I didn't have a chance to stay for it. Luckily he came back to my area this past Friday night, the weather cooperated and I was able to enjoy the show. His show was very good and included hits like "Brokenheartsville", "The Impossible", "Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" and "Size Matters (Someday)", plus new music from his next album. One I really liked was called "Let's Get Drunk & Fight". Before he took the stage I had him sign my "Man With A Memory" CD insert.

Joe Nichols signed CD insert

SheDaisy - In-Person: 7/27/07. SheDaisy opened the show. I had met them before but never had a chance to see them in concert. I really enjoyed their show A LOT! They performed many of my favorite songs of theirs like "Lucky 4 You (Tonight I'm Just Me)", "In Terms Of Love", "Little Goodbyes" and "I Will...But". Their sister Karli was filling in for Kristyn who's taking time off this summer to write material for their next album. I've been cranking the SheDaisy songs at home since going to this show.

"The Whole SheBang" CD insert signed by SheDaisy

Driving Mr. Spacey

2007-07-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

Even though I haven't been sending out, it's still nice to see successes show up, especially successes like the one I received today.

Kevin Spacey - Sent: 9/13/06 Received: 7/23/07. This is a huge addition to my autograph collection. Kevin Spacey is a double Academy Award winning actor. I tried him last fall when he was doing a play in London. When I didn't get a reply, I tried him again here in the States back in May (I heard he was signing via that venue). Today it's my very first success that came back, postmarked London. Being the super hero fan that I am, it's no surprise I would send a photo of him as "Lex Luthor" from the "Superman Returns" movie. Kevin Spacey's other huge films include "The Usual Suspects", "American Beauty", "Pay It Forward" and "LA Confidential".

Kevin Spacey (click to enlarge)

Some TA for today

2007-07-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

A side note before I continue onto today's post, I will be combining the June & July monthly recaps at the end of this month. OK, now on to business. I went to a country music show last night at a county fair and gained two new autographs for my collection.

Trace Adkins - In Person: 7/19/07. Trace did an excellent live show last night that was chalked full of hits like "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk", "Hot Mama", "Ladies Love Country Boys", "Chrome" and "Swing". He also did an awesome cover version of Ronnie Milsap's "Stranger In My House". (I hope he records that someday). I met Trace before his show and he signed a CD insert for me.

Trace Adkins (click to enlarge)

Jamie O'Neal - In Person: 7/19/07. Jamie O'Neal opened the show that I went to last night. (I'm a huge fan of her work). It had been about a year since I saw her last. I had a nice visit with her and she signed the CD single insert to her most recent single for me after her performance. Her hits include "There Is No Arizona", "When I Think About Angels", "Somebody's Hero" and "Trying To Find Atlantis".

Jamie O'Neal promo CD single (click to enlarge)

In her satin tights

2007-06-25T19:34:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows anything about my autograph collecting knows I started it to get Lynda Carter's autograph. She was the first autograph I ever wanted in my life. I remember back as a little kid wanting a signed photo of her in the 'Wonder Woman' costume. I've had success three times through the mail but now I have a bunch of stuff that I dream of having signed. These are items too rare or big to take a chance on mailing to her and not ever getting them back. Now thanks to my awesome friend Joey, I have an In-Person success of her on one of these type of items.

Lynda Carter - In Person: 6/22/07. Lynda is doing a series of cabaret style concerts. My friend Joey has seen her twice already, including this past Friday when she performed in LA. I sent him this incredibly rare Japanese photo guidebook of the TV show 'Wonder Woman' and he was able to get Lynda to sign it for me! This was the type of item that if I sent it to her and it got lost it in the mail or was never returned, I could probably never find it again to replace (or be able to afford to replace it). He even sent me a photo of her signing it. Thank you so much Joey. You have no idea what it meant to me that you did this for me.

Lynda Carter In-Person success (click to enlarge)

Star Spangled 'Graphs Part 2

2007-06-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

I mentioned "Star Spangled Celebration" on Friday's post. I went back to the three day country music event on Saturday and scored some more autographs.

Josh Turner - In Person: 6/23/07. This was Josh's third appearance at the festival. Every time he comes back he's bigger than he was the last time. This was no exception. His show was very good. Prior to the show he signed his latest CD insert for me. Not only am I looking forward to his next studio album, but he has a Cracker Barrel exclusive "Live" CD coming out in a few weeks that I want to get. "Long Black Train", "Your Man", "Would You Go With Me" and "Me And God" are some of his hit songs.

Josh Turner's latest CD (click to enlarge)

Chris Young - In Person: 6/23/07. Chris Young was last years winner of "Nashville Star" (A country music version of "American Idol"). He's released two single so far "Drinkin' Me Lonely" and "You're Gonna Love Me". His album is great, he did an excellent concert but like many of the other Nashville Star winners he really hasn't taken off. A shame. Hopefully that "Nashville Star curse" will end soon and he'll get the success he deserves. My favorite song on his album is "Flowers".

Chris Young (click to enlarge)

I should add in that Ronnie Milsap performed at the festival too (he was awesome). Very friendly and did an outstanding show. I met him backstage before his show. He did not sign autographs during the meet & greet though. Billy Currington performed a very disappointing short show before walking out halfway (due to an "medical emergency"). He managed to tell off the crowd and cancel his meet & greet before leaving the venue. So had that not happened, I would have had his autograph for my collection as well.

I didn't attend the festival on Friday but some co workers went and got these two items signed for me.

Jason Aldean - In Person: 6/22/07. Jason just released his second album which contains his current hit titled "Johnny Cash". His previous hits include "Hicktown", "Why" (his first #1) & "Amarillo Sky". He signed the "Relentless" CD insert for me (the new album I mentioned). I thought it was a good idea to get his autograph now while he's a rising artist. He's going places!

Jason Aldean (click to enlarge)

Heartland - In Person: 6/21/07. Last summer Heartland had a huge hit song called "I Loved Her First". It was great to see a good quality song become a hit and even more surprising to see it happen because they are not signed to a major record label. They signed their debut album CD insert for me.

Heartland (click to enlarge)

Who you gonna call?

2007-06-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

It's always exciting when a big name lands in the mailbox. Just like what I found in the mailbox this morning.

Dan Ackroyd - Sent: 8/29/06 Received: 6/22/07. Dan Ackroyd has over 30 years of credits to his resume, including being an original cast member of "Saturday Night Live" and an originator of "The Blues Brothers". He was kind enough to sign my Ghostbusters photo ("Report all ghosts!) and two photos from "Driving Miss Daisy". A great legend for my collection. He has a new movie titled "I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry" which I plan on seeing when it's released next month.

Dan Ackroyd from "Ghostbusters" (above) and "Driving Miss Daisy" (below).

Star Spangled 'Graphs

2007-06-22T21:48:00.000-07:00

There is a great 3 day country music festival near where I live called 'Star Spangled Celebration'. I attended last night and scored some new autographs for my collection.

The Wreckers - In Person: 6/21/07. The Wreckers are a new country music duo consisting of pop singer Michelle Branch and Jessica Harp. I love their debut CD, especially the title track "Stand Still, Look Pretty". Other hits on the disc include "Leave The Pieces" and "My, Oh My". A missed flight delayed the start of their show and then bad weather forced the evacuation of the outside venue and their meet and greet. However a contact I had who works for them was kind enough to take this on the bus and get this autograph signed for me.

The Wreckers debut CD insert signed to me

Darryl Worley - In Person: 6/21/07. I've met Darryl Worley a few times but this was the first time I was able to see one of his full concert shows and get his autograph. He came on after a big rain storm and delivered a bunch of his hit songs like "I Miss My Friend", "Awful Beautiful Life" and "A Good Day To Run". Very nice guy and tall (He clocks in at 6'6"!). Darryl also recently appeared in Playgirl magazine.

Darryl Worley signed CD insert

Dierks Bentley - In Person: 6/21/07. Dierks was the evenings headliner performer. The weather had delayed his show some too. It didn't end until 12:30am. A long rainy wet night but a lot of fun. While I'm not huge fans of all the male country music singers, (I prefer the female vocalists a little better) I really am into Dierks music. Every time I've met him he's a consistently super nice and a fun guy to talk to. His hits include "What Was I Thinkin", "Come A Little Closer", "Every Mile A Memory" and my personal favorite "Long Trip Alone". By the way he did an incredible rendition of the Barbara Mandrell classic "Fast Lanes & Country Roads" on her tribute CD.

This is Dierks latest CD, which he signed the insert of for me.

It was just a matter of time

2007-06-11T09:26:00.000-07:00

With a staple of country music classics like "Forever & Ever, Amen", "Diggin' Up Bones", "1982" "Three Wooden Crosses" and "On The Other Hand" Randy Travis has been a bona fide country music superstar for over twenty years now.

Randy Travis - In Person: 6/8/07. It's been almost 20 years since I saw Randy Travis in concert last. His show was chalked full of a bunch of hit songs and he was very nice backstage before the show. Although he didn't sign a lot of items backstage, he was kind enough to sign this CD insert for me. It's hard for me to pick a favorite song of his but if I was forced too, I would probably say "Look Heart, No Hands". Hopefully it won't be another 20 years before I get to see his show again.

Randy Travis (by the way this In Person signature matches a TTM sign I obtained prior to starting this blog perfectly).

Can it with the camera, Jimmy Olsen

2007-06-06T19:15:00.000-07:00

With Canadian postage on the return envelope, I scored another success from 'Smallville" today in the mail.

Aaron Ashmore - Sent: 10/16/06 Received: 6/6/07. Aaron is the twin brother of Shawn Ashmore (who plays "Iceman" in the "X-men" movies). Ironically Aaron has a reoccurring role as another comic book character, "Jimmy Olsen" on "Smallville". He will become a series regular with the next season starting this fall. His previous work included guest stints on "The West Wing" and "Veronica Mars". I was very excited to add this to my collection.

Aaron Ashmore, a new series regular on "Smallville".

Monthly recap: May

2007-06-06T19:11:00.000-07:00

Here's how the month shaked out for me.

Monthly recap: May 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 1

Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0

Pre prints: 0

RTS: 0

Other: 5 In-Person's

Total sent out in May: 1

Mr. Roeper (and I don't mean Stanley the land lord)

2007-05-25T20:25:00.000-07:00

I wrote this request at a time when I was having difficulty finding people to write too. (No disrespect to Mr. Roeper).

Richard Roeper - Sent: 8/18/06 Received: 5/25/07. This success came from an e-mail I sent. Richard Roper is one of the hosts of "At The Movies With Ebert & Roeper". I can't say that I'm an avid viewer or that I always agree with his film reviews, but I do appreciate the signed photo for my collection. Anyone that responds via e-mail requests is A' O-K in my book.

Thumbs up from Richard Roeper (click to enlarge)

Brad Paisley's Bonfires & Amplifiers

2007-05-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

I went to a great country music concert last night and was able to meet all the acts who performed.

Brad Paisley - In Person: 5/4/07. Brad Paisley headlined the "Bonfires & Amplifiers" tour that I saw last night. It was an incredible show. The type of show that artists win "Entertainer of The Year" because of. The show was a great mix of music from his hits to tracks that will be on his next album. Backstage after the show Brad told me they are filming next Thursday's show for a future DVD release. So if the tour doesn't make it's way to your area make sure to watch the concert DVD. He was also kind enough to sign the CD insert from his most recent CD for me. You can see my photos with Brad here.

Kellie Picker - In Person: 5/4/07. You may know Kellie from last years "American Idol". Her show included her two hit singles "Red High Heels" and "I Wonder", plus a cover version of Dolly Parton's "9 to 5". Her hair is much shorter than it looks on the CD insert she signed for me.

Jack Ingram - In Person: 5/4/07. Jack has been putting out records for about 10 years now but it wasn't until the last 2 years or so he's found major success with his releases. He performed a great set including his #1 single "Wherever You Are" plus other hits like "Love You", "Lips Of An Angel" and "Measure Of A Man". He signed his brand new CD insert for me after his portion of the show.

Taylor Swift - In Person: 5/4/07. She was so sweet when I met her. A hug, a photo with her and my CD insert signed. Taylor Swift is a very talented singer/songwriter who's 17 years old. She has released two singles so far ("Tim McGraw" and "Teardrops On My Guitar") off her debut album.

This show was also the show where Taylor, Kellie & Jack pulled a joke on Brad. Taylor and Kellie appeared onstage dressed up as "Ticks" (while Brad sang the song) and Jack dressed as an exterminator who kills them. You Tube has a video of it here.

Visiting England

2007-05-03T17:53:00.000-07:00

Grab your cowboy hats and boots. Here's the first of two 'country music' themed posts.

Ty England - In Person: 5/3/07. Ty England was Garth Brooks lead guitar player at the height of "Garth Mania". After he left Garth's band he signed to RCA Records where he recorded two albums, which included a top 5 single "Should've Asked Her Faster". Ty has done some recording since that time and now has a brand new album on his own label. My personal favorite song of his is "All Of The Above" which was on the "Two Ways To Fall" CD which is what I chose to get signed by Ty when he was in town today.

Ty England (click to enlarge)

RIP: Tom Poston 1912-2007

2007-05-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

FLASHBACK: TOM POSTON

Tom Poston - Sent: 6/1/05 Received: 8/24/05. It was
sad to hear in the news today that Tom Poston had passed away. Most people will remember him as the handyman "George Utley" from the "Newhart" TV series or for being Suzanne Pleshette's real life husband. From what I read he had a great rapport with his fans. I even heard that sometimes when they'd write him for a signed picture he'd send one and ask that person (who wrote him) to send him a photo of themselves. He didn't do that when I wrote him but he was kind enough to send me this great personalized photo with a quick turn around. The lights of Hollywood are a little dimmer with this loss.

Monthly recap: April 2007

2007-05-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

Watch for a Flashback (and tribute) post to the late Tom Poston coming soon. In the mean time here's the April monthly recap:

Monthly recap: April 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 5
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 1 auto pen
RTS: 0
Other: 0
Total sent out in April:0

One more for the month

2007-04-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

Here's an autograph I wanted for awhile that I achieved just by sending an e-mail.

Edie McClurg - Sent: 2/6/07 Received: 4/30/07. This one I knew was coming. I sent an e-mail to Ms. McClurg in early February and on the 19th of that month, received a very nice reply from her personal assistant saying Edie had read my e-mail and wanted him to write me on her behalf. They had a signed (but not personalized) photo they could send me now or wanted to know if I wanted to wait a few weeks until he was with Edie to be able to get her to personalize one for me. Of course since I love the personalized ones even more I had no problem waiting. And today the wait was over. What a kind person who obviously goes the extra mile in caring about her fans. Edie McClurg's impressive resume include guest spots/reoccurring character on a TON of shows including "WKRP" (she played Herb's wife, Lucille), "Small Wonder", "7th Heaven" and a very funny bingo oriented episode of "Roseanne". A great character actress/comedienne.

Does she look familiar to you? Edie McClurg (click to enlarge)

A birthday autograph

2007-04-29T13:30:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posting this. It came in on Thursday, which was my birthday. Being busy with several birthday activities delayed me having the time to post it. With the lack of sending out I've done I feel lucky to have received anything back, especially on my birthday.

Dustin Hoffman - Sent: 8/7/06 Received: 4/26/07. If this is the real deal I'm very pleased with it, even though it isn't personalized to my name (like I like). What can you say about Dustin Hoffman? He's incredible. Always has been. I sent him two photos which both came back signed. At first I thought they might be "auto penned" but after looking and comparing the two signatures, I can see a slight spacing difference where he signed his last name, so I've ruled out an auto pen. Hopefully it's not secretarial. It still felt good to get an autograph on my birthday though.

Dustin Hoffman above (from "Rain Man") and below (from a very early film "Lonesome Cowboy"). Click to enlarge either.

Freeze Frame

2007-04-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

Being a huge fan of the "comic book" movies and TV shows, I was happy to add another comic character to my collection. Today's comes from a terrific newer actor who I think will have a bright future.

Sam Huntington - Sent: 1/26/07 Received: 4/21/07. "Superman Returns" was a good movie in several aspects, especially the casting. You can just look at Sam Huntington and tell that he has the 'Jimmy Olsen' look. Not only did I like him in the movie, I though he added a lot of personality to the "behind the scenes" features on the DVD and made them even more enjoyable. I was very happy to add this autograph to my collection.

Sam Huntington as "Jimmy Olsen" from "Superman Returns" (click to enlarge)

'Bright' spot in my autograph collection

2007-04-17T19:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked the 2 year anniversary of the start of this blog. Happy Birthday Blog!

Cameron Bright - Sent: 6/15/06 Received: 4/17/07. Cameron Bright is a new relatively new actor although he's been working for seven years already, primarily doing guest spots on television programs like "Dark Angel" and "Stargate SG 1". His feature film work has included "Thank You For Smoking" and one of my favorite movies from last year, "X-men 3" (he played "Jimmy" aka "Leech" in X3). Not only did he sign this photo "Cam Bright" but also wrote the same name in the upper return corner of my envelope. A nice addition to my "X-men" autograph collection.

Cameron Bright (click to enlarge)

This time I know it's for real

2007-04-09T19:24:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist naming this post what I did, not only because it's one of Donna's hits but because of my last posting on the fake Michelle Pfeiffer autograph that I received.

Donna Summer - Sent: 11/17/06 Received: 4/9/07. Today's success comes from the Queen Of Disco... Donna Summer. Donna is one of the few artists who's work I really love that I haven't had a chance to see in concert (yet). I hope she will tour in my area sometime soon so I can see her. She sent me this head shot photo with a form letter which confirms the signature is authentic. Some of my favorite Donna Summer songs include "Hot Stuff", "On The Radio", "I Will Go With You", "Dim All The Lights", "This Time I Know It's For Real" and of course "Last Dance".

Donna Summer signed photo (above) and the letter that came with it (below). Click to enlarge either.

Pfeiffer pfools

2007-04-02T17:26:00.000-07:00

I consider this my April fools prank (pulled on me a day late).

Michelle Pfeiffer - Sent: 9/13/06 Received: 4/2/07. I tried Michelle at the set address to 'Hairspray' in Canada, thinking maybe a via venue address wouldn't bring back the usual auto penned signature response. I even enclosed a post it asking nicely to just send it back unsigned if she couldn't authentically sign it and not to use the auto pen machine. Didn't matter. My 'Grease 2' photo came back along with another photo she provided both auto penned. Look closely at both signatures and you'll see they match too perfect, space for space same size. You can also compare it to my previous attempt at trying to get her. At least the photo she sent is a beautiful one that I've never seen before. This envelope was returned with US postage on it (but no post mark).

(above) Michelle sent the auto penned photo (above) and had the auto pen machine sign the photo that I sent (below).

This blog is still in business! (lol)

2007-03-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the very long delay in updating my blog. I've been out of town and under the weather which not only caused the delay in updating but my lack of motivation for sending out. I am seriously thinking I need an 'autograph intervention'. While I wait for that, lets get caught up from most recent to oldest success.

Monthly recap: March 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 0
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 0
Other: 2 In Person's
Total sent out in March: 0

John Anderson - In Person: 3/30/07. I saw John in concert last night. He put on an excellent show that included many of my favorite songs of his, such as "Straight Tequila Night", "1959", "Would You Catch A Falling Star" and of course "Swingin". Before the show I had a chance to meet him and he signed this CD insert for me. I was lucky to accomplish this because John doesn't sign during his meet & greet's anymore.

John Anderson's "Greatest Hits" CD insert signed In-Person

Beverly Mitchell - In Person: 3/1/07. I met "7th Heaven" TV star turned country music singer Beverly Mitchell when I was in Nashville. She was very friendly and so beautiful. (I haven't seen a photo that does her justice yet). Beverly plays "Lucy" on "7th Heaven" or you may remember her from the movie "Saw II". She signed this photo for me with a very nice inscription.

Beverly Mitchell In Person signed photo

Monthly recap: February 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 6
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 0
Other: 1 In-Person
Total sent out in February: 3

Frank Oz -Sent: 3/9/05 Received: 2/27/06.* Here's a long lost success that I had given up on. Almost two years ago I sent this out to Frank Oz at an address that people had been getting responses from. Shortly after it seemed you saw no one getting anything back from that address so it wasn't looking promising. My photo and index card came back today, both personalized along with a typed form letter that said "I was going through things and I found your request. It must have fallen between the cracks. Even though it's been so long since you've written I hope the enclosed will still be meaningful to you. Best wishes, Frank Oz". We'll Frank yes it still does. Awesome addition (of an important character) to my "Star Wars" autograph collection. (* means date is approximate. I was out of town when it arrived but I'm pretty sure this was the date it arrived).

Frank Oz signed "Yoda picture". Yoda-man Frank!

David Lander - In Person: 2/16/07. I was excited to read that David Lander was making a (very rare) public autograph appearance. Todd was attending the show so I sent my "Laverne & Shirley" cast photo to him, to have David sign. (Thank you Todd). David was charging a very reasonable fee to sign and then donating all of that money to multiple sclerosis. So not only did I get an autograph I really wanted but I helped out a charity. David played "Squiggy" on "Laverne & Shirley". He could make me laugh just by saying (in his 'Squiggy' voice) "Hello".

Three down and one to go to complete my 'Laverne & Shirley' photo (Penny Marshall still needed).

If loving her is wrong, I don't want to be right

2007-02-20T19:13:00.000-08:00

My favorite singer if all time is (and always has been) Barbara Mandrell. The first song I ever called a radio station to request was a Barbara Mandrell song called "Wish You Were Here". That song came from her "Live" album, the first music album that I ever owned. So today's success holds a lot of special meaning to me.

Barbara Mandrell - Sent: 10/26/06 Received: 2/20/07. This past October I had the chance to talk with Barbara on the telephone. Following that (great) conversation I sent her a thank you letter with a CD insert and a 12" vinyl album cover of her "Live" album (which has never been available on CD) requesting an autograph. Today both came back with one of the nicest inscriptions I've ever received on the album cover. Barbara Mandrell has had several huge hit songs such as "Sleeping Single In A Double Bed", "I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool", "If Loving You is Wrong, I Don't Want To be Right" and "You Can Eat Crackers In My Bed Anytime" and hosted a very successful TV variety series in the early 1980's with her sisters.

(above) the new tribute CD (today's artists singing her classic songs) and (below) her 1981 "Live" album. (Sorry all of it wouldn't fit on my scanner). Click to enlarge either.

"To my special, wonderful friend Ryan, I wish you the very best! Love, Barbara Mandrell" is inscribed on a copy of the very first record album I ever owned.

Top 10 Most Wanted: #1 CHRIS EVANS

2007-02-13T17:08:00.000-08:00

A very special thanks to the staff and my friends at my old post office who made sure this success got forwarded to me. I sent it out 865 days ago (and have moved since) but the great folks at my old post office made sure I didn't miss out on this and I appreciate and thank them so much.

Chris Evans - Sent: 10/1/04 Received: 2/13/07. Chris Evans was #1 on my "Most Wanted" list of autographs that I didn't have. I have written to him 5 times and my very first request came back today as my very first success. I had seen recently on Star Tiger people were getting him back after a long wait so I had hopes I would be lucky enough also. Now I wonder if maybe any of my other 4 photos I sent him (which I liked better than this one) will come back as well. After I saw him in "Cellular" Chris Evans became my #1 favorite actor. No surprise that my favorite role of his is "Johnny Storm/The Human Torch" in "Fantastic Four". I even gave up going to a concert to go see the Fantastic Four movie opening day. I saw the sequel trailer (which featured a lot of Chris) and it looks like it will be very good. I definitely thought this was a lost cause so it feels great to be proven wrong.

Chris Evans in his first "Fantastic Four" promo pic (click to enlarge)

Paigeing Ryan: you have mail!

2007-02-10T21:00:00.000-08:00

Saturday seems to be the day that I have the best luck receiving autographs. The luck of Saturday was with me on this success today.

Peter Paige - Sent: 7/21/06 Received: 2/10/07. Peter Paige is best known for playing "Emmett" on "Queer As Folk", but you might have also seen him guesting on "Related" or just recently on "Without A Trace". He sent me this cool head shot photo, signed but not personalized.

Peter Paige (click to enlarge)

9021 - OH

2007-02-05T09:44:00.000-08:00

Today's success comes from Canada.

Jason Priestley - Sent: 8/29/06 Received: 2/5/07. I grew up watching '90210' and longing to have a more exciting and active teenage life like the characters did on the show. (Except for 'Andrea' who seemed a little too obsessed with that school newspaper). Anyway, Jason Priestley played one of the shows main characters, Brandon Walsh. I know he's played other roles (including last years "Love Monkey") but he's always going to be remembered by me as Brandon. He provided this very cool photo personalized to my name.

Jason Priestley (click to enlarge)

Stan is THE man!

2007-02-01T09:09:00.000-08:00

A new success for a new month is a great way to start the month.

Stan Lee - Sent: 1/26/07 Received: 2/1/07. As you might remember I have tried to get Stan Lee many times before and it wasn't until just recently that I ever received anything back from him. The down side about that success was that he didn't personalize the photo I sent him (but did personalize one for my friend). I didn't want to push the issue but it seems Stan is in a signing mood lately so I did purchase another photo and sent it to him and did receive it back signed and personalized (as I love) with a very quick 6 day turn around. For those who need a refresher, Stan Lee created many of Marvel Comics super heroes, including Spider-man, Hulk, Fantastic Four and the original X-men. A true icon.

Stan Lee (click to enlarge)

Monthly recap: January 2007

2007-01-31T18:57:00.001-08:00

I think 'Con artist" was a good posting for my last success on Matthew McConaughey. Upon further comparison the inscription and signature is either an autopen or pre print with someone filling in the personalization. I have seen celebs fill in the personalization themselves (remember the Josh Holloway instance) but for now I'm not counting this one as an authentic success. Lets move on now to this month's recap:

January 2007 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 1
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 1 (possible autopen w/a personalization)
RTS: 0
Other: 0
Total sent out in January: 6

I also came up with a revised 'Most Wanted' list for the new year. In no particular order it is:

Most Wanted 2007

1. Chris Evans
2. Faye Dunaway
3. Michelle Pfeiffer
4. Cher
5. Halle Berry
6. Tom Welling
7. Famke Janssen
8. Brandon Routh
9. Penny Marshall
10. Jessica Alba

If you can help me with achieve a success on any of these please post a reply with your e-mail address and I will be in touch.

Coming soon to this blog: another 'Flashback' segment.

'Con' artist

2007-01-16T09:37:00.000-08:00

The mail returns today after the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday with a success for me!

Matthew McConaughey - Sent: 11/1/06 Received: 1/16/07. I was very excited to get this success as I've enjoyed a lot of Matthew's films including "Failure To Launch" and "How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days". Ironically "Wedding Planner" (one of his bigger movies) is a film I haven't seen yet. (I guess I need to rent that soon). Matthew sent me this great personalized photo plus a "J.K. Livin" sticker and a half sheet filmography/bio fact sheet. (J.K. stands for "just keep"). Interestingly enough Matthew was the lead choice to play the lead role in James Cameron's film "Titanic".

Matthew McConaughey (click to enlarge)

Good Times! My first autograph of 2007

2007-01-05T08:37:00.000-08:00

Here's my first autograph success received in 2007. (Although it was signed at the end of 2006).

BernNadette Stanis - Sent: 5/12/2006 Received: 1/5/07. In the last few months I've watched some TV Land re runs of "Good Times", a show I really enjoyed when I was young. Today's success comes from BerNadette Stanis who played "Thelma" on the show. She sent me this current head shot photo (look at that face - she looks the same!) and a handwritten letter. This success also joins the autographs of Ralph Carter and Jimmie Walker who I have that were also in the TV series.

BernNadette Stanis autographed picture and letter

Monthly & Yearly recap

2007-01-04T17:05:00.000-08:00

December 2006 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 6
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 0
Other: 1 In-Person
Total sent out in December: 0

November 2006 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 6
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 0
Other: 2 In-Person's
Total sent out in November: 8

Year End Stats

Based on the monthly recaps this is how 2006 turned out for me:

Total sent out in 2006: 177
Total received in 2006 (believed to be real): 108
Others (deemed a success): 21
Others (responded to but not counted as a success including PP's): 4

Top 12 most wanted for 2005/2006

Only one accomplished in 2006 but it was the one I thought was the hardest to get!

Tom Welling, Julie Newmar (ACCOMPLISHED!), Halle Berry, John Wesley Shipp (ACCOMPLISHED!), Megan Mullally (ACCOMPLISHED!), Burt Ward (ACCOMPLISHED!), Faye Dunaway, Cathy Lee Crosby (ACCOMPLISHED), Richard Eastham (passed away in 2005 before I could get a success), Michelle Pfeiffer, Cher, Madonna (ACCOMPLISHED IN 2006!)

WHO HAVEN'T I HEARD FROM...

I also thought you might enjoy seeing who has not responded to me since I started collecting. Below are my pending requests. (Note: A * after the name means I did get this persons autograph through a different request or opportunity).

2003 pendings: Lynda Carter*, cast of JAG, Dixie Chicks, Sheena Easton, Ian McKellen*, Irlene Mandrell*, Linda Lavin*, Ben Affleck, Matt Gould, Josh Harnett, John Wesley Shipp*, Polly Holliday*, Alan Cumming*, Famke Jannsen, Jack Larson, Mario Lopez, Rutanya Alda, Jeremy Piven, Cathy Lee Crosby*, Margot Kidder*, Alice Ghostly*, James Marsden, Jackson Bostwick*, Dixie Carter*, Bob Mackie

2004 pendings: Jean Smart, Ted Wass, Vicki Lawrence, Laurie Metcalf*, Dina Meyer, Rebecca Romijn*, Eartha Kitt*, John Stamos, Paul Benedict, Halle Berry, Fran Dresher*, Swoozie Kurtz, Billy Ray Cyrus, Michelle Pfeiffer, Shelly Morrison*, Estelle Parsons*, Anna Paquin, Famke Janssen, Stan Lee*, Jim Davis, Alec Baldwin, John Davey, Sherman Hemsley, Eric McCormack*, John Wesley Shipp*, Matt Lauer, Bill Daily, Susan St. James, Beth Howland, Josh Duhamel, Megan Mullally*, Eddie Cibrian*, Linda Cardelini, Alan Cumming*, Josh Harnett, Lynda Day-George, Cindy Williams*, Barbara Bel Geddes, Jeannie Epper*, Robert Wagner, John Astin, Eartha Kitt*, Michael Keaton, Cher, Hugh Jackman*, Janis Speaker, Alan Cumming*, Daniel Cudmore*, Stan Lee*, James Marsden, Goldie Hawn*, Victoria Gotti, Alice Ghostly*, Chris Evans, Jessica Alba, Katherine Helmond, James Franco, Ted Wass, Tom Welling, Rebecca Romijn*, Charo, Dame Edna, Jeremy Piven, Diana Ross, Cotter Smith, Dinah Manoff, Eric Johnson, Eric McCormack*, Gary Sandy, Carol Bruce, Jessica Simpson, Jan Hooks

2005 pendings: Steve Howey, Joanna Garcia, Hal Sparks*, Bruce Davison, John Cleese, Kevin Zegers, Scarlett Pomers, Sam Jones III, Kristin Dunst, Ryan Reynolds, Jessica Lange, Christina Applegate, Doris Day, Anna Paquin, Frank Oz, Ben Stiller, Sean Hayes, Tom Welling, Tyler Mane, Debra Messing, Brandon Routh, Donna Murphy, Michael Gross, Dean Cain, Kim Fields, Julia Duffy, Lucy Liu, Brandon Routh, Chris Evans, Ben Feldman, Will Ferrell, John Glover*, Emmylou Harris, Ryan McPartlin, Charlene Tilton, Kevin Bacon, Mitch Holleman, Steve Howey, James Franco, Mario Lopez, Marcia Wallace, Tom Welling, Francous Vogel, Brad Bird, Maggie Grace, Sarah Chalke, Robert Hegyes, Val Kilmer*, Cris Judd, Ann Wedgeworth*, Nathan Lane, David Boreanaz, James Marsden, Dominic Monaghan, Ryan McPartlin, Maria Menounos, Famke Jannsen, Lisa Hartman-Black*, Rebecca Romijn*, Sherman Helmsley, Anna Paquin, Halle Berry, Chris Evans, Gary Oldman, Farrah Fawcett*, Maggie Grace, Emile DeRavin, Cynthia Watros, Peter Frechette, Zach Braff, Rachel McAdams, Berlinda Tolbert, Jeri Jewell, Michele Lee, Christopher Knight, Alan Ritchson, Jackee Harry, Janet Du'Bois, James Franco, John Stamos, Michelle Rodriguez, Gabrielle Carteris, John Haymes Newton*, Cris Judd, Ian Somerhalder, John Goodman, Ben Feldman, Kasey Rogers, Gretchen Wilson, Ian Somerhalder, Michael Rosenbaum, Maria Canals, Freddie Highmore, Mario Lopez, Roberta Flack

2006 pendings: Willie Garson, Swoosie Kurtz, Christopher Knight, Leslie Jordan*, Harry Connick Jr., Johnny Galecki, Neil Hopkins, Ted Waas, Scarlet Pomers, Priscilla Pointer, Donan Mills, Kelsey Grammer, Kyle MacLachlan, Stephan Bender, James Marsters, Eric Johnson, Jessica Simpson, Mackenzie Astin, Justin Hartley, Mario Cantone, Alex Desert, Jason Lewis, Julia Roberts, Scott Weinger, Nigel Barker, Roseanne, Sandra Bernhart, Chris Evans, Patrick Duffy, Mario Lopez, Kevin Dobson, Famke Janssen, Zach Braff, BerNadette Stanis, Madonna*, Steve Howey, Sean Hayes, John Stamos, Ryan Reynolds, Donna Mills, Wayne Rogers, Diana Scarwid, Cameron Bright, Stan Lee*, Ricardo Montralban, Steve Forrest, Peter Paige, Jeff Anderson, Dominic Monaghan, Richard Simmons, Dustin Hoffman, Jesse Metcalfe, Robert Hoffman, Freddie Prinze Jr., Bette Midler, Richard Roeper, Antonio Sabato Jr., Jason Priestley, Dr. Linda Papadopoulos, James Marsden, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, Kevin Spacey, Swoosie Kurtz, Michelle Pfeiffer, Eva Longoria, Vanilla Ice, Sean Astin, Steven Culp, Justin Hartley, Aaron Ashmore, Kevin bacon, James Denton, Richard Donner, Barbara Mandrell*, Ernie Hudson, Richard Burgi, Eric Dane, Matthew McConaughey, Brooke Hogan, Donna Summer*, Ricki Lake, Tim Burton, Josh Lucas

Here's hoping that list will deplete a lot in 2007!

Score tonight!

2006-12-22T16:45:00.000-08:00

I'm definitely considering this an early Christmas present. (Not that I really deserve one autograph wise with my lack of sending out in the last month plus). But when I opened this it brought back some old feelings of 'victory' when getting a surprise autograph that I really wanted.

Adrian Zmed - Sent: 3/21/04 Received: 12/18/06. You might be a fan of Adrian Zmed from "T.J. Hooker" (he played Officer Vince Romano). I'm a big fan of him from "Grease 2" where he played the T-Bird leader "Johnny Nogerelli". It's not a secret on this blog how much I liked that movie. You don't see a lot of Adrian Zmed successes through the mail, so this was a pleasant surprise and a nice addition to my "Grease 2" collection, even if it did take just over 550 days to get.

"Score Tonight" was the name of the song they were singing in this "Grease 2" photo, which Adrian Zmed mentioned in the personalization above.

Adrian Zmed (click to enlarge either)

Emmy award winning success

2006-12-19T11:39:00.000-08:00

Another surprise was waiting for me at the mailbox today.

Dana Delany - Sent: 10/31/06 Received: 12/19/06. "China Beach" was the turning role for Dana Delany's career. It won her two Emmy Awards for best actress. Dana could actually count in my "Lois Lane" collection too, because she provides the voice for "Lois" in the current "Superman" (and "Justice League") cartoons. Dana was kind enough to sign & personalize the photo I sent her.

Dana Delany (click to enlarge)

Can you sea the LOVE?

2006-12-12T21:25:00.000-08:00

Another success comes today on the 12th month/12th day

Ted Lange - Sent: 10/13/06 Received: 12/12/06. This is a follow up to my October 7th posting with a RTS on Ted Lange. That RTS had a new address handwritten on the envelope so I tried that address which produced this success. Ted will always be remembered for playing "Isaac Washington" on "The Love Boat". Earlier this year he starred in the most recent season of VH1's "Celebrity Fit Club" where he lost a ton of weight and really toned himself up. Ted sent me this photo and also returned my letter, answering a question I had asked him. (By the way "The Love Boat" has an awesome TV theme song)!

Ted Lange (click to enlarge)

Miller time!

2006-12-11T20:16:00.000-08:00

I feel like it's confessions time. I have sent no request out in weeks. I know I will pay the price for it in the months to come. But in the mean time, I enjoy these two new successes today.

Wentworth Miller - Sent: 7/31/06 Received: 12/11/06. Wentworth is one of the hottest new stars on TV now, thanks to the show 'Prison Break'. When I sent this out I didn't know 'Prison Break' has switched their filming location from Chicago to Texas. My letter went to Chicago, so I didn't put much stock into getting a reply. Sending it there may have added some time into getting a response but Wentworth sent this great photo, personalized to my name.

'Prison Break' star Wentworth Miller (click to enlarge)

Channing Tatum - Sent: 9/7/06 Received: 12/11/06. You may remember that I scored a success from Channing last month. Before that first success came in, I retried him at a different address. This success came from that second attempt address (which was also previously untested) than I used and proved to work. Ironically he sent the same photo that he sent me last time. Still cool that I did get a reply. Channing's movie "Step Up" was just released on DVD.

Second success from Channing Tatum (click to enlarge)

Could I have this autograph?

2006-12-09T21:38:00.000-08:00

She's Canada's treasure, not the treasurer of Canada.

Anne Murray - In Person: 12/9/06. I've had the chance to see (and meet) Anne Murray a few times through out the years. She's a very down to earth person (with a funny personality). Tonight I had front row tickets to her "What A Wonderful Christmas" tour. The first half of the show was an abbreviated version of her regular show, followed by a 20 minute intermission and then the Christmas portion of her show. What a voice. I was trying to think of my favorite Anne Murray song, but since I couldn't narrow it down I thought I'd list some of my favorites. Some of them you may recognize because they were hits, some you may not know because they were album cuts. But anyway the list includes: "Now & Forever", "You Needed Me", "Shadows In the Moonlight", "What Would It Take", "Me Too", "I Just Fall In Love Again", "Just Another Woman In Love", "A Little Good News" and I could go on and on, so I better stop now. I think you get the idea that I really like her music. She didn't have any 8X10 photos for sale at the merchandise table so I had her sign a CD insert (that I brought with me) after her show.

Anne Murray signed cd insert (click to enlarge)

Long time coming....

2006-12-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

Here's one of those requests that I had thought to be long lost.

Sabrina Le Beauf - Sent: 11/29/04 Received: 12/8/06. Sabrina will always be remembered for playing 'Sandra' on "The Cosby Show". She's a great actress and a great addition to the 'Cosby" cast. Many of my favorite 'Cosby' episodes happen to be ones that she was part of. You may find it interesting that she only appeared in 35 of the shows 135 episodes. To me that shows how memorable she was on that show. Sabrina sent me this current head shot photo plus a one page bio/resume of her work. Cool success that was over 2 years in the making.

Sabrina Le Beauf of "the Cosby Show" fame (click to enlarge)

Monthly recap: Nov VS Oct

2006-12-08T20:45:00.000-08:00

This has been a very busy time for me lately which explains the lack of mailings this month, but looking back it was still a successful month. I didn't miss my goal of 10/month by much (thanks to the two In-Person's).

November 2006 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 6
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 0
Other: 2 In-Person's
Total sent out in November: 8

October 2006 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 8
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 1
RTS: 2
Other: 0
Total sent out in October: 16

One more to give thanks for this month

2006-11-30T19:44:00.000-08:00

It's nice to wrap up the month with one final success.

William Petersen - Sent: 10/31/2006 Received: 11/30/06. I was going through my stack of unsigned photos (thanks again Joey) and found this one from the movie "Hard Promises". I looked William Petersen up and he does sign through the mail, so bing bang boom here's today's success. I wrote to William at the "CSI" set address in California.

William Petersen (click to enlarge)

I C Peter Gallagher

2006-11-25T17:47:00.000-08:00

After a two great In-Person autographs last night, I score a TTM today.

Peter Gallagher - Sent: 10/31/2006 Received: 11/25/06. If you watch "The OC" you know Peter Gallagher who plays "Sandy Cohen" on the show. His other credits include "American Beauty", "Sex, Lies and Videotape" and the TV movie version of "Titanic". I sent Peter a photo but he didn't sign (or return it). He did send his own photo though, and although not personalized to my name, it does have a real autograph on it.

Peter Gallagher (click to enlarge)

Every 'autograph' a memory

2006-11-24T22:06:00.000-08:00

This past evening I went to the "Locked & Loaded" tour starring Dierks Bentley, Miranda Lambert & The Randy Rogers Band. I had the chance to meet two of the artists and add to my autograph collection.

Dierks Bentley - In Person: 11/24/06. I've seen Dierks in concert before but I have to say "WOW"! This was the best show I've seen him do yet. He's really grown as an entertainer. We had a great visit backstage before his show where he signed this photo for me. His new song "Long Trip Alone" may be my favorite song of his yet.

Dierks Bentley - great entertainer and a nice guy (click to enlarge)

Miranda Lambert - In Person: 11/24/06. Miranda's big break came on season one of "Nashville Star". She ended up the runner up for the season and earned a recording deal with Sony anyway. Like Dierks she's really grown as an entertainer. She was friendly backstage and even looks better than her photos show. "Kerosene" is not only a great song by Miranda but an awesome music video.

Miranda Lambert (click to enlarge)

Ed head

2006-11-18T08:49:00.000-08:00

In early 2005 Jessica Lange was doing a play in New York so I purchased a press kit from the movie "Sweet Dreams". I never did get a response from her, but luckily that press kit has two great photos of Ed Harris in it, which today turned out to become successes for me.

Ed Harris - Sent: 9/27/06 Received: 11/18/06. I wrote to Ed Harris at a play he was doing in New York called "The Wrecks". Given the fact that the play recently ended and he's known for sending out 'pre-prints' I didn't put much stock into this coming back. But how wrong I was (and happy that I was wrong). He signed both photos and the index card I sent him - personalizing all three. His film credits include "A Beautiful Mind", "The Right Stuff", "The Abyss", "Apollo 13" and "Sweet Dreams".

Ed Harris (click to enlarge either image)

Legendary mail

2006-11-15T09:16:00.000-08:00

If you've ever looked at my blog and thought "I don't know who that is", rest assured you won't with today's success.

Clint Eastwood - Sent: 8/29/06 Received: 11/15/06. What can I say about this one? LEGEND. I could go on and list a ton of movies or roles he's played but the man is Clint Eastwood! 'Nuff said. Instead I'll tell you I've looked at several 'In-Person' successes and this signature seems to match them. How cool is that someone like Clint Eastwood, who does not need to respond to fan mail does.

Clint Eastwood (click to enlarge)

Mantegna Mail

2006-11-13T08:53:00.000-08:00

Just an update to my previous success on Victoria Principal. I have seen a scan result from another user who received the same photo I did - it's definitely a pre-print. I have gone back in my monthly recap and made the appropriate adjustment. Now on to new mail.

Joe Mantegna - Sent: 10/31/2006 Received: 11/13/2006. You might know Joe Mantegna as the voice of "Fat Tony" on "The Simpsons" or maybe you remember him from "Joan Of Arcadia" where he played "Will Girardi". I myself am more familiar with his appearances on the 4th season of "Soap" (playing "Juan One"). Joe signed the photo I sent in a two week turn around.

Joe Mantegna (click to enlarge)

Some en-'Channing' mail

2006-11-04T09:16:00.000-08:00

It's a odd numbers game in today's mail. I sent this out on the 11th day of the 4th month and received it back on the 4th day of the 11th month.

Channing Tatum - Sent: 4/11/06 Received: 11/4/06. Today's success comes from model turned actor Channing Tatum. His acting credits include "Coach Carter", "She's The Man" and "Step Up". He also was featured in a series of popular Mt. Dew commercials and can be seen in Ricky Martin's video "She Bangs". This was a very cool success for me to get because first of all it was an address I researched out myself (which paid off) and secondly because Channing and I have the same birthday. He provided the photo, which I think is from "She's The Man".

Channing Tatum (click to enlarge)

Honky Tonk Angels

2006-10-31T22:48:00.000-08:00

My first endeavor into autograph collecting was collecting autographed CD inserts (and album and cassette before CD's). With the upcoming country music awards I thought it would be fun to go back & show you one of my favorite pieces in my collection.

FLASHBACK - DOLLY PARTON, LORETTA LYNN & TAMMY WYNETTE

Tammy Wynette - In Person Date: N/A, Loretta Lynn - In Person Date: N/A, Dolly Parton - In Person Date:N/A. Tammy was the first person I got to sign this cover. I had the chance to see her in concert (and meet her) three times. She was so nice and kind to me. If you've ever heard of people talking about meeting someone and feel like you've been friends forever, that was Tammy each time I met her. She was so incredible and I miss her a lot. Loretta was the next person I got to sign this after a show in Wisconsin Dells, WI. She was very kind and funny. I've had the chance to meet her a few times and you can always count on her to entertain you - regardless if it's singing or just telling a story. As you can see I've met Dolly Parton a few times, but Dolly's signature on this insert came before any of those times. I had sent it to my friend Trudie (who was working at the label Dolly was recording for at the time), and she kept this in her desk for months until Dolly came into the office and got her to sign it for me. I do remember this was after Tammy had passed away and Trudie was nervous holding onto it for me for that reason. But thanks to Trudie I was able to complete the cover. Not only is this an awesome piece in my collection but a great CD that I highly recommend. Each one take turns on the lead vocals of a song, with the others providing harmony. My favorite song on the album is one featuring Dolly on lead, called "Sitting On The Front Porch Swing".

Trick or Treat: Monthly recap

2006-10-31T19:02:00.000-08:00

This month had some 'tricks' and some 'treats' in it. Here's the monthly recap:

October 2006 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 8
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 1
RTS: 2
Other: 0
Total sent out in October: 16

September 2006 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 13
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 1
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 1
Other: 1 (In-Person)
Total sent out in September: 16

Samantha & The City!

2006-10-31T17:59:00.000-08:00

I hope the post office doesn't read today's entry on my blog.

Kim Cattrall - Sent: 10/17/06 Received: 10/31/06. Before I even get into this story I have to say Kim Cattrall has been on my "Most Wanted" list. I haven't publicly posted an updated most wanted list since my original "Top 12", but since I've been able to cross many names off my original list, one name I put on was Kim Cattrall. I loved her as "Samantha" (my favorite character) on "Sex & The City". The character was so different than any other character. I loved her one liners and how aggressive, confident and assertive the character was. Kim did an excellent job playing her. I sent a photo & index card to the play she's doing in London. I also enclosed a SAE envelope with $2 US dollars to cover overseas return postage. Today I received my photo and index card back (both signed & personalized - YAY!) and my $2 US dollars. On the front of the envelope where the postage should have been was handwritten "COD". The thing is the post office did not charge me for the postage (which I would have gladly paid) and this entire envelope came from London to my doorstep with no postage on it at all! That's definitely a new story to tell in my autograph experiences. Isn't that funny? Getting Kim means I've gotten all 4 of the girls on "Sex & The City" (although my Sarah Jessica Parker could be secretarial). A great success today to wrap up the month. It wasn't a trick - it was a treat!

Kim Cattrall signed photo & index card (above & below)

(below) the corner of my return envelope where postage should have been. COD (cash on delivery) is written instead and it made it to me with no postage at all.

To the principal's office!

2006-10-30T18:38:00.000-08:00

It seems like forever since I've had a new success. But I'm back today with one that's a little puzzling.

Victoria Principal - Sent: 10/23/06 Received: 10/30/06. I'm usually very good with being able to spot pre-print and autopen signatures but this one I'm not sure about. I received this 5X7 photo one week after mailing it out. And it's signed but I can't tell if it was signed with a fancy fountain pen/marker or if it's a pre-print or auto pen. And I can't find anyone else who's received the same photo so I can compare signatures. For the time being I'm going to mark it as real but I have some doubts. Victoria Principal will always be remembered for playing "Pam Ewing" on "Dallas".

Victoria Principal - real autograph or just a dream?

Frederique Van Der Wal - Sent: 9/20/06 Received: 10/26/06. RTS. Ok so I originally wrote to Frederique via e-mailing through her web site. On September 19th I received a e-mailed reply saying to send a SASE to the address they provided. I did and then I got RTS from that address. All I have to say to that is: ????????????

Love captain

2006-10-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

No this post has nothing to do with Tennile, but let's go back to the 1970's anyway.

Gavin MacLeod - Sent: 5/5/06 Received: 10/20/06. Gavin MacLeod will always be remembered from "The Love Boat" where he played "Captain Stubing". I haven't seen a rerun of "The Love Boat" in a while but I have heard the theme song recently. Classic. They just don't make catchy TV theme songs anymore like they used to. Gavin sent me this photo which he personalized to my name.

Gavin MacLeod (click to enlarge)

Shields on

2006-10-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

Mail from Brooke Shields arrived at the mailbox today.

Brooke Shields - Sent: 8/31/06 Received: 10/16/06. "Blue Lagoon" was the first movie I remember Brooke Shields from. And I remember the super stardom that followed her ever since. Even though the photo wasn't personalized to my name (as I prefer) I was happy to have it for my collection. She isn't the easiest person to get. Not the hardest but definitely not the easiest. I sent my request to an address in California but it came back postmarked New York.

Brooke Shields (click to enlarge)

duck, duck, GOOSE!

2006-10-13T09:16:00.000-07:00

Friday the 13th may be unlucky for some, but it wasn't for me!

Christopher McDonald - Sent: 9/20/06 Received: 10/13/06. By now you know what a fan I am of the movie "Grease 2". I was very happy to add Christopher McDonald's autograph to my collection today. He played The T-Bird "Goose" in the movie. I sent him a photo I had which was previously signed by Leif Green (who played the T-bird "Davey"). You might remember him more from playing "Bryce" on "Veronica's Closet".

"Grease 2" was Christopher McDonald's (left) 3rd acting job.

According to the mailman....

2006-10-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

With no mail on Monday (Columbus Day) I was very happy to score a success today to hold me over until Tuesday. 4 successes in 6 mail days is very good this early in the month. (I hope it continues).

James Belushi - Sent: 8/16/06 Received: 10/7/06. From the TV show "According To Jim", I received James Belushi today. He was also a member of "SNL' for a few years and the brother of the late John Belushi. I noticed my first name was written on the bottom of the back side of my return envelope. His assistant must write the name there of who he should sign the photo to. A cool success.

James Belushi (click to enlarge)

Ted Lange - Sent: 9/20/06 Received: 10/7/06. RTS. A different address was handwritten on the envelope, so I will try that one. Ted was most recently seen on "Celebrity Fit Club".

Mail for you folks

2006-10-06T17:50:00.000-07:00

October seems to be off to a great start so far.

Scott Lowell - Sent: 7/11/06 Received: 10/6/06. Scott is best known for playing "Ted" on "Queer As Folk". I really like the design of this photo with the black border and red stripe. Unfortunately the photo got a little dinged up (on the left hand side) in the mail before it got to me.

Scott Lowell (click to enlarge)

Mailbox double dip

2006-10-02T17:37:00.000-07:00

Double success is a great way to start out a new mail month.

Mark Harmon - Sent: 7/31/06 Received: 10/2/06. A few months ago I received a huge lot of unsigned 8X10 photos as a gift from my friend Joey. I could have sworn there was a photo of Mark Harmon in there. I looked and looked and looked and looked and couldn't find it. But I specifically remembered what this photo looked like. When I couldn't find it, I just decided to write and request a photo from him. Come to find out what I thought was my photo was this photo which was a success my friend Lee got & posted on his blog. Oops. It's all ok now because today I received my own signed "NCIS" photo from Mark Harmon.

Mark Harmon (click to enlarge)

James Karen - Sent: 8/7/06 Received: 10/2/06. When I first got this photo from "Superman Returns" I didn't know who the man was next to Eve Marie Saint. But since, I've learned it's James Karen and he does sign TTM. I thought the photo would look better signed by both so I sent it to him. And you know what? It does! A lot of James scenes in "Superman Returns" were cut so I expect to see them in next month's DVD release. Check out imdb for a complete list of his credits. I'm sure you'll recognize a movie or TV show he's been on.

James Karen adds his signature on my "Superman Returns" photo.

Monthly recap: September VS August

2006-10-01T14:41:00.000-07:00

September turned out to be a great month of quality successes.

September 2006 autographs

Autographs received TTM (real or believed to be): 13
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 1
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 1
Other: 1 (In-Person)
Total sent out in September: 16

August 2006 autographs

Autographs received (real or believed to be): 9
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 2
Other: 0
Total sent out in August: 22

It's time to get...

2006-09-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Buckwild! I didn't have time to post these before I left to see Nick Lachey in concert last night, so before we get Buckwild, let's get caught up. There are two pop singers and 2 reality show stars within these 3 successes.

Nick Lachey - In Person: 9/29/06. I had a chance to see Nick in concert last night and meet him before the show. Due to time constraints his meet & greet rules were: 1 autograph per person, he does not personalize the autograph and you can take a picture while he's signing your stuff but no posed photos together. We'll I snagged a personalized autograph on my cd insert, another personalized one for a friend, a signed photo for myself and was in a posed group shot with Nick. None of this would have been possible if not for my friend Monica who invited me to go to the show. Thank you Monica, I had a great time. I like Nick's song "What's Left of Me" and enjoyed the show (which included that song and even some 98 Degrees songs).

Nick Lachey signed cd insert & photo (above & below)

Cyndi Lauper - Sent: 3/23/06 Received: 9/29/06. I had given up hope on this. Cyndi did a play earlier this year in New York and I saw a few successes come in towards the end of the play and when mine wasn't one of them, I figured it wouldn't happen. I haven't seen many successes posted since so it was a pleasant surprised when my cd insert arrived back signed. I've seen Cyndi in concert three times (opening for Cher each time) and I really enjoyed her set.

Cyndi Lauper signed cd insert (click to enlarge)

Becky Buckwild - Sent: 9/20/06 Received: 9/29/06. If you watch "Flavor Of Love 2" you will know "Buckwild" (aka: Becky) from the show. She's the white girl everyone accuses of acting black. I like "Buckwild" though and I know my friend like it when I imitate "It's time to get buckwild". But Becky seems like a cool chick. She sent me a signed photo with a cool inscription, a 'Buckwild' window cling sticker and a one page handwritten letter. My favorite 'Buckwild' moment was when she gave her clock back because "New York" was being put back in the competition. I like a girl who stands up for her principals. You rock Buckwild!

Becky Buckwild signed photo (above) and personal reply handwritten letter (below).

Super Nanny, Super Autograph

2006-09-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

Today's success is no ordinary success, it's a "super" success

Jo Frost - Sent: 4/5/06 Received: 9/28/06. I watched a marathon once of the "Super Nanny" and I got hooked. I know she basically dishes out the same advice to every set of parents but for some reason, that I can't quite identify, I find the show amusing. I wrote to "Jo Jo" in London and today received a signed photo.

Jo Frost (click to enlarge)

One I thought I got ripped off on

2006-09-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

Last year when I was really getting going on my 'Grease 2' autograph collection I sent this next request out. The bad news was I knew I was going to have to purchase the signature (on an item I provided) from Scott Stander & Associates. I had heard horrible stories about this company and about how they run their business and things they have done to other collectors. I'm here to tell you, they're all true. Since paying for this autograph (which they cashed the check on May of 2005) I've contacted them via e-mails which were never replied to, have called them (which I knew I was getting the run around as soon as they found out what I wanted. The person who took care of that department was conveniently never in when I called. They wouldn't tell me the employees name and I never received a call back). My friend Lee actually met Scott Stander at an autograph show and told him to his face (in front of William Katt, another client of his) how he would never purchase an autograph from him because of what he did to me. Of course Stander offered the "Gee I don't know what's happened. I'll check into this" typical (cover up) response which he never did (nor return any phone calls/e-mails). So please view my first and last purchased autograph from Scott Stander & Associates.

Dody Goodman - Sent: 3/15/2005 Received: 9/26/06. Dody played "Blanche" in "Grease" and the sequel "Grease 2". The lobby card I sent is from a deleted scene from "Grease 2". It was kind of funny that I received this today. Before getting my mail today I purchased a "Grease 2" DVD as a gift for a friend. Despite the effort, hassle and having to pay for it, I'm very happy to have it in my collection. Dody turns 91 years old in just over a month from now.

Looks like Eve Arden is stopping Dody Goodman from "spilling the beans" about the lack of customer service from Scott Stander & Associates in this "Grease 2" photo.

Beautiful mail

2006-09-25T19:00:00.000-07:00

Not one but two beautiful women arrived with today's mail.

Kristin Davis - Sent: 4/29/06 Received: 9/25/06. In early May Kristin spent a week performing a play in London. I wrote to her via the venue and today received my photo and index card back signed and personalized. (This thing must have traveled because the postmark was Columbia, SC). I was very excited to get this back because I loved her in everything I've seen, especially "Sex & The City". Not only a great actress but a classic beauty, reminiscent of a modern day Jaclyn Smith.

Kristin Davis signed photo (above) & index card (below)

Rebecca Romijn - Sent: 9/5/06 Received: 9/25/06. Beneath the blue make up, body paint and appliques in the "X-men" movies lies another beautiful woman - Rebecca Romijn, who plays "Mystique". She wasn't in much of "X-men 3" but she did make the most out of her on screen time. This was my fourth attempt and first success at getting her autograph. Many times I've watched other people get a success from her at the same address I used while mine went unanswered. I have to say it's nice to finally get my turn. Rebecca has been on many movies, TV shows (including her own, "Pepper Dennis"), is an accomplished model and was once married to actor John Stamos.

Finally a success from Rebecca Romijn (click to enlarge)

Field day

2006-09-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

Before I get into today's success I did receive an e-mail from Actress/model Frederique Van Der Wal in response from an autograph request I e-mailed. She said she would be happy to provide a signed photo if I sent her a SASE. That was mailed out yesterday to the address she provided, so here's hoping to see a success from her on these pages soon.

Sally Field - Sent: 7/5/06 Received: 9/21/06. Today I received TV & Movie Star Sally Field's autograph. Sally began her acting career 41 years ago on "Gidget". Since that time she's been involved with many memorable projects like "The Flying Nun", "Smoky & The Bear", "Norma Rae", and some of my personal favorites "Steel Magnolias", "Soap Dish" and "Mrs. Doubtfire". I sent Sally three photos which she signed and personalized with very nice inscriptions. Nice to see a star this big still responding to her fan mail.

Sally Field signed my three photos (shown above & below)

Something to talk about

2006-09-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

I dedicate this post to my friend Wayne. He helped me out with a big project tonight and also solved the mystery of the inscription that was on the autograph I received today.

Bonnie Raitt - Sent: 3/13/06 Received: 9/18/06. I have to tell you this inscription stumped me. I could read the "To Ryan- Hope to see you" part and the "Thanks for digging what I do" part but not what was written in between. I showed it to a friend online - he couldn't tell what it said. I showed it to a co-worker, she didn't know what it said either. I posted it on the Star Archive message board, many people thought it said "in the summer". I show it to my friend Wayne and he knew what it said right away. It reads "To Ryan- Hope to see you in Wisconsin- Thanks for digging what I do- Bonnie Raitt". How clearly it all makes sense now. Great photo and inscription from Bonnie Raitt! Thanks Bonnie!

How do I "raitt" getting a cool autograph from Bonnie Raitt?

Excelsior!

2006-09-16T13:46:00.000-07:00

I was beginning to think this week was going to end up becoming a bust.

Stan Lee - Sent: 9/5/06 Received: 9/16/06. This was my 4th attempt and first success for Marvel Comics creator Stan Lee. Stan Lee put Marvel Comics on the map by creating characters like Spider-man, The X-men, The Hulk and The Fantastic Four. You might recognize him from the cameos he'd made in those movie adaptations or from his voice over work narrating many Marvel cartoons. The photo I sent him is from his cameo as "Willie Lumpkin" in the "Fantastic Four" movie. I wish he had personalized the photo to my name but with as many unsuccessful attempts as I've had with him I'm getting over that minor detail fast.

Stan Lee as "Willie Lumpkin" delivering the mail at the Baxter Building. (Hey any autographs in there for me??)

Janice Dickinson - Sent: 8/29/06 Received: 9/7/06. RTS. Anyone have an address suggestion?

I'm so glad we had this time together

2006-09-10T20:38:00.000-07:00

FLASHBACK - CAROL BURNETT

My friend Brian let me borrow his Carol Burnett Show DVDs which inspired me to chose Carol for this month's "Flashback" feature.

Carol Burnett - Sent: 12/8/03 Received: 8/30/04. To me Carol Burnett is the funniest woman ever (Lucy's great but I like Carol just a bit better). Some of my favorite sketches and characters she's played include "Went With The Wind", "Mrs. Wiggins", "Stella Toddler", "Nora Desmond", but my all time favorite is "Eunice" from the "family" sketches which later became "Mama's Family". Very early in my collecting days I found this unsigned photo of her as "Eunice" so I bought it and sent it to her. After I got Lynda Carter (my #1 most wanted autograph), Carol became my #1 most wanted that I didn't have at the time. It took 265 days but it was well worth it. I'm also glad I achieved this success when I did as I hear due to the high volume of mail she receives Carol is unable to keep up with it and doesn't sign much anymore (especially items that are sent to her). If you do get a success from her it's usually one of her own head shot photos. Carol Burnett and I also share the same birthday (but different years just in case you had to ask!)

Thomas time

2006-09-06T09:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I scored a success from someone who had a recurring role on "Cheers". Today I do the same thing.

Jay Thomas - Sent: 7/11/06 Received: 9/6/06. Jay Thomas played "Eddie LeBec" on several episodes of "Cheers", but it was his "Jerry Gould" character from "Murphy Brown" that I've always enjoyed. I sent Jay a photo which he didn't sign (or return) but instead sent me two photos both signed. The first, a headshot photo reads "Ryan - Thanks for your kind words - I wish you all the luck I wish myself - Jay". The other photo is a "Cheers" print out photo personalized to my name.

Jay Thomas (above & below)

Somebunny sent me their autograph

2006-09-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

More mail arrived today.

Frances Sternhagen - Sent: 3/9/06 Received: 9/5/06. Being a fan of the show "Sex & The City", I wanted to get Frances Sternhagen because I loved her performance as "Bunny MacDougal" on the show. When I first started watching I thought it was Anne Haney playing that role. (I still mix both of those ladies work up sometimes). I found an address that had successes for Frances, but not since 2001. I decided to try it anyway and it turned out to still work. Besides "Sex & The City", you might remember Frances from "ER' or "Cheers" where she had recurring roles on both shows.

Frances Sternhagen (click to enlarge)

Twice as nice mail day

2006-09-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've had multiple successes in the same day, so it was nice to find two envelopes in today's mail.

Eddie Mekka - Sent: 4/29/06 Received: 9/2/06. Eddie Mekka is best remembered for being "Carmine Ragusa" aka "The Big Ragoo" on "Laverne & Shirley", (or as "Lenny" and "Squiggy" called him "The Big Raccoon"). I wrote to him in Las Vegas where he was doing a performance of "Hairspray". I know sometimes he does convention appearances (where you can buy autographed pictures and even jars of "Ragu" sauce from him) but I haven't seen many through the mail successes on him so I wasn't sure if he would sign for free. But not only did he sign the photo I sent he included a signed playbill from "Hairspray".

Eddie Mekka from his "Laverne & Shirley" days (above) and a playbill from his more recent "Hairspray" performance in Vegas (below).

Rita Moreno - Sent: 8/16/06 Received: 9/2/06. My second success today comes from an Oscar, Emmy, Tony and Grammy award winner - Rita Moreno. "Electric Company" was probably the first place I remember seeing her work, even though she had been working at least 25 years before then. I also really enjoyed her in the TV series version of the movie "9 to 5".

Rita Moreno (click to enlarge)

Monthly recap: Aug VS July

2006-08-31T20:37:00.000-07:00

August wasn't a bad month, but I think I liked July better. Here's the monthly summary.

August 2006 autographs

Autographs received (real or believed to be): 9
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 2
Other: 0
Total sent out in August: 22

July 2006 autographs

Autographs received (real or believed to be): 12
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 1
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 0
Other: In Person: 1
Total sent out in July: 19

Also be on the watch for another "Flashback" to be posted very soon!

Major success

2006-08-31T08:46:00.000-07:00

Wrapping up the month with an autograph worth six million dollars.

Lee Majors - Sent: 6/1/06 Received: 8/31/06. Star of "The Six Million Dollar Man" and "The Fall Guy" (and one time husband to Farrah Fawcett-Majors) today I received Lee Majors. He provided this vintage promo pic from "The Fall Guy". (Man that show had a great TV theme). "The Six Million Dollar Man" (and it's spin off "The Bionic Woman") were favorites of mine growing up although I don't remember the last time I've watched an episode of either. Neither show is available (yet) on DVD but when it is I'd be interested in checking it out to see if they hold up to the test of time.

Lee Majors (click to enlarge)

Crystal mail

2006-08-30T09:49:00.000-07:00

If you remember the TV show "Wings" you probably remember Crystal Bernard who played "Helen" on the show.

Crystal Bernard - Sent: 8/16/06 Received: 8/30/06. I met Crystal several years ago when she opened a concert for Billy Dean. She was so nice and a lot of fun to meet. (Plus I really enjoyed her show much more than I thought it would). At that time I had her sign the insert for her first CD. It seems a good working address for Crystal was recently found and a lot of folks have been getting successes from it. I thought I would send my other CD insert and request a signed photo as well for my photo album. I did get a signed photo plus she did sign (and personalize) my CD insert. I've enclosed both scans plus my "In-Person" scan from years ago for you to compare signatures.

(above) CD insert & 8X10 pic obtained TTM. (Below) In-Person autograph from Crystal Bernard

Way to go Doogie

2006-08-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

I recognized the signature before I did the face on today's success.

Neil Patrick Harris - Sent: 7/15/06 Received: 8/28/06. Neil Patrick Harris was performing "Amadeus" one night only at the Hollywood Bowl in CA on July 20th. I wrote to him at the venue sending a 8X10 photo of him as "Doogie Howser". When I opened the mail today I didn't recognize him for a second because I did not get back what I expected. He did not sign or send back my photo but instead sent his own (current) 5X7 photo personalized with a nice inscription. I'm not sure if he didn't sign or send back my photo because he liked it enough that he wanted to keep it or because he didn't want to sign a "younger" picture of himself. Even though I wish this was an 8X10 photo instead of a 5X7, I'm trying not to complain because he isn't easy to get. He usually uses the Studio Fan Mail company to reply to his mail with pre printed signature photos.

Once upon a time Neil Patrick Harris was "Doogie Howser" (click to enlarge)

Thursday's mail

2006-08-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

A new success in today's mail brings some sunshine to clear up the dark skies outside.

Carol Potter - Sent: 8/7/06 Received: 8/24/06. Carol Potter is best remembered for playing "Cindy Walsh" the mother of "Brandon" and "Brenda" on the TV show "Beverly Hills 90210". If you've wondered where she's been since that show ended, besides occasional acting and voice over jobs she also opened her own counseling practice in California. "Brandon" and "Brenda" were always better off when they took her advice so I guess it makes sense. She provided the photo which is a current shot of herself.

Carol Potter from "90210" fame (click to enlarge)

Black magic

2006-08-22T18:04:00.000-07:00

Today's success comes from a woman who is a great singer, fantastic actress and all around knock out.

Lisa Hartman Black - Sent: 7/6/06 Received: 8/22/06. I think 'inquired about' is a better word to describe this than 'sent' . The credit of this success all goes to my friend Heather who made this happen for me. Early last month I asked Heather if she could help me regarding a work project with country singer Clint Black. I also asked if there were any chances that I could get a personalized photo of Clint's wife Lisa for myself. I told her of my unsuccessful attempts to get one for myself. She had never dealt with a request for Lisa before but said she would ask. Obviously she did and she came though for me! "Knots Landing" was the first place I remember seeing Lisa (where she played two different characters "Ciji" and "Cathy" during the shows run) but she's also remembered for playing the title role in the "Bewitched" spin off "Tabitha". So special thanks to Heather once again for helping me get this success that I've wanted for a long time!

Lisa Hartman-Black (click to enlarge)

'Grease' is the word!

2006-08-21T19:24:00.000-07:00

Today I won one and I lost one. Let's do the happy one first.

Barry Pearl - Sent: 8/9/06 Received: 8/21/06. Next month (9/19) a special "Rockin' Rydel" edition of the movie "Grease" is being released on DVD. I'm happy to see a new edition of this coming because the first DVD release was one of the worst transfers I've ever seen of a movie to DVD. A movie that is so fondly remembered by many deserved a better DVD treatment than what it originally received. I mention this because Barry Pearl is best known for playing the T-Bird "Doody" in the movie "Grease". Barry sent me a "Grease" promo head shot picture personalized to my name "Ryan- Grease is the word Barry Pearl" with drawn music notes. He also included a typed letter that touched on most of my original letter to him. Due to a contract I had to sign in advance to get the autograph I can not publicly post the scan for this success. This is the first time I ever had to sign a contract in order to get an autograph, but it was definitely worth it.

Meryl Streep - Sent: 8/7/06 Received: 8/21/06. RTS. I knew this was a long shot but I had to try. I wrote Meryl via the play she's doing in New York right now. My envelope came back with the address crossed out and "Return to sender" written with a black sharpie on the front. As Meryl said in "The Devil Wears Prada"..... "That's all".

Atta girl

2006-08-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

I don't know if you've noticed (like I have) that the movie "9 to 5" seems to be re-running a lot on TV in the last few months. Today's success comes from a great supporting actress in the film.

Peggy Pope - Sent: 7/11/2006 Received: 8/11/06. Peggy Pope is a great character actress probably best remembered for playing Margaret Foster, the "ole lush" (as Mr. Hart referred to her) in the movie "9 to 5". Peggy has guest starred on many TV shows I've enjoyed including "Soap", "Golden Girls" and "Kate & Allie". The photo she sent is her current headshot which shows she still looks the same as she did 20 years ago!

Peggy Pope (click to enlarge)

Red Buttons 1919-2006

2006-08-09T19:33:00.000-07:00

FLASHBACK - RED BUTTONS

As promised a tribute to Red Buttons who passed away last month (7/13/06 vascular disease) a success I achieved very early in my autograph collecting days.

Red Buttons - Sent: 9/22/04 Received: 9/28/04. My two favorite roles that Red Buttons played was "Ashley Norman" on the pilot episode of "Wonder Woman" and his two appearances on "Roseanne" playing "Jake". (I loved the line "Craftmatic adjustable Bev!"). I've never seen a picture from him from "Roseanne" but I did find this rare shot of him (although more in the background) from the "Wonder Woman" episode. It only took 8 days to get it back signed and personalized. RIP Red Buttons.

The one that I want!

2006-08-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

While writing this post I was trying to think what song of Olivia Newton-John's was my favorite. I couldn't decide for sure but some of the songs that I was thinking about included "Don't Stop Believin", "Physical", "Magic", "Precious Love", "Suddenly", "Back With A Heart" and all the music from "Grease".

Olivia Newton-John - Sent: 11/15/05 Received: 8/5/06. I've seen Olivia Newton-John twice in concert and had the chance to meet her both times. She was friendly both times and put on an incredible concert, covering her country, pop and soundtrack hits plus covering traditional "standards" in her show. The first time I met her I had her sign a cd insert and the second time I had her sign a "Grease" collectible so I wanted to get a 8X10 photo of her signed for my photo album. I found this photo online ordered it and sent it out to a CA address back in November. My photo came back today with a signature on it that matches my "In Person" successes.

(above) Olivia Newton John TTM (below) one of my "In-Person" autographs from ONJ (2001)

Georgia on my mind

2006-08-03T17:49:00.000-07:00

Look for a "Flashback" tribute to come on Red Buttons in the next few days on this blog. In the mean time I have my first success of the new month to share with you.

Georgia Engle - Sent: 4/21/06 Received: 8/3/06. I first became aware of Georgia Engle from The "Mary Tyler Moore" show where she played "Georgette". If you don't know her from there you might recognize her from her appearances on "Coach" and "Everybody Loves Raymond". I wrote to Georgia at a play she was doing and received this photo. She still looks the same as she did 30 years ago!

Georgia Engel (click to enlarge)

Judy Davis - Sent: 7/7/06 Received: 8/2/06. RTS. I really like Judy Davis' work. I hope I can find an address that will reach her someday.

Monthly recap: July VS June

2006-07-31T18:36:00.000-07:00

I was very happy with how this month turned out. I wrote some extra requests this month and will again next month to make up for the lack that I sent out in June.

July 2006 autographs

Autographs received (real or believed to be): 12
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 1
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 0
Other: In Person: 1
Total sent out in July: 19

June 2006 autographs

Autographs received (real or believed to be): 3
Out of that number, the amount that were purchased: 0
Pre prints: 0
RTS: 3
Other: In Person: 7, Possible autopen: 1
Total sent out in June: 8

July brings one more

2006-07-31T09:27:00.000-07:00

I wrap up the month with one more success.

Danny Aiello - Sent: 7/21/06 Received: 7/31/06. If you've seen the movie "Moonstruck" or any of the "Godfather" movies or maybe even Madonna's music video for "Papa Don't Preach" then you've seen Danny Aiello. Danny signed the photo I sent and returned another photo of his own - a two sided photo which he signed both sides of. He also wrote a quick note to me on a post-it answering a question in my letter to him. Awesome success that was very quick to achieve.

Danny Aiello signed the photo (above) that I sent to him

He also sent back his own two sided photo (above & below) which he signed on both sides.

A 'peri' good weekend for autographs

2006-07-29T20:36:00.000-07:00

A double dosage of success to post about.

Peri Gilpin - Sent: 5/26/06 Received: 7/29/06. Peri was doing a play for one week in London at the beginning of June so I wrote to her at the venue and sent her a college I made of her character "Roz" from "Frazier" dressed up as "Wonder Woman" during a Halloween episode. I had written to Kristin Davis at the same play and never heard back and with close to two months passed since Peri's play ended I hadn't thought much about this arriving back. But today it did (postmarked Los Angeles with US postage on it). She signed the photo and index card I sent and returned the $2 cash I had sent to cover return postage from London (since I didn't have overseas stamps).

Peri Gilpin was "Wonder Woman" once on "Frazier"

Lily Tomlin - Sent: 9/8/2004 Received: 7/28/06. You might remember that I scored a success from Lily back in April. What appears below is my original request to her back in 2004 that just now came back. A long time but worth the wait. If the "9 to 5" photo looks the same it's because it is. Thinking this request was long gone, I bought a new one, had Jane Fonda sign it and then sent that one to Lily a few months ago. I am very glad to get the "Ernestine" picture back though. Lily currently provides a voice in the new animated movie "Ant Bully" which I saw the other night and really enjoyed.

(above) One ringie dingie, Two ringie dingies with Lily Tomlin as "Ernestine The Operator" (below) Lily as "Violet Newstead" on "9 to 5"

Caan artist?

2006-07-28T09:57:00.000-07:00

More mail arrived at my mailbox today. Some people thing James Caan might be a secretarial autograph. I don't know for sure, but I'm leaning a little more towards authentic. What do you think?

James Caan - Sent: 7/5/06 Received: 7/28/06. It's nice to see someone who's been in so many successful projects (like "The Godfather" movies, "Funny Lady" & "Brian's Song") still answering his fan mail, if he really is. Some collectors speculate he might use a secretary to sign for him. James (or his secretary) signed the "Misery" picture I sent him, returning it in less than a month. Currently James can be seen in the TV series "Las Vegas".

James Caan (click to enlarge)

Monday mail

2006-07-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

When I started collecting I set a personal goal to try to obtain at least 10 autographs through the mail (TTM) each month. Today's mail brings me another step closer to this month's goal.

Ken Kercheval - Sent: 7/15/06 Received: 7/24/06. Wow. This didn't take long at all. Ken Kercheval is best known for playing "Cliff Barnes" the nemesis of J.R. Ewing on "Dallas". His character was also the brother of Victoria Principal's character "Pam". I wrote to Ken and he sent me this great color photo of him from his "Dallas" days. I really like it when the celebrities send out pictures from the roles they are best remembered from. Ken was originally cast for the role of "Ray Krebbs"on the show. He and Larry Hagman are the only cast members to stay with the series throughout it's entire run.

Ken Kercheval was one of the good guys on "Dallas"

Goldin boy

2006-07-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

I had an idea this one might be coming. A few days ago I received an e-mail newsletter from Ricky Paull Goldin's webmaster so I knew my e-mail had been read by someone and somewhere I had been entered into a database. I also thought it was a good sign that my request for a signed photo would be honored as well.

Ricky Paull Goldin - Sent: 6/12/06 Received: 7/22/06. Like my recent Wendie Mallick success, "Kate & Allie" was the first place I remember seeing Ricky Paull Goldin. He was only on a few episodes playing Jennie's boyfriend "Jason Crawford". Most of Ricky's success has come from soap opera roles. On "Another World" he played "Dean Frame", on "Young & The Restless" he played "Gary Dawson" and currently he plays "Gus Aitoro" on "Guiding Light". This success came from e-mailing him from the official Guiding Light fan club site. Although the photo isn't personalized to my name it is a real signature (not a pre print or auto pen).

Ricky Paull Goldin (click to enlarge)

Tonight show success today

2006-07-21T09:20:00.000-07:00

I will be mailing out requests in style now. I was the first customer at my post office to purchase a book of the new DC Comics super hero stamps. Cool stamps and two autograph successes equal a very good day for me today!

Jay Leno - Sent: 3/17/06 Received: 7/21/06. When I went down to the mailbox today the first thing I saw was a big white envelope from NBC labeled "THE TONIGHT SHOW". I knew who it was from, I just had my fingers crossed that it wouldn't be a pre print. I opened it up to find this very cool Jay Leno photo that was personalized to my name. In the Leno VS Letterman battle (Is that like Coke VS Pepsi?) I'm a Leno fan. I like his interview style better and watch his show more. (Plus he sent me a cool signed photo!). I achieved this success via an e-mail request.

Jay Leno (click to enlarge)

Dania Ramirez - Sent: 6/15/06 Received: 7/21/06. Another success for my "X-men" collection today came from Dania Ramirez who played "Callisto" in "X-men 3". I sent her two photos which she signed and personalized. I plan on sending the group shot photo out to someone else in the picture so I have my fingers crossed that I don't end up losing it. Despite "X-men 3" being a little heavy on characters and lacking on character development I still enjoyed the movie a lot and will get the DVD when it's released.

Dania Ramirez (above & below) from "X-men 3: The Last Stand"