Hi, everyone.  Well, I just got back from two great Connells shows - Ortley
Beach and Freedom Fest.

I did see Bill at the Ortley Beach show (by the way, my name is Kimberly - I'm
one of the only ones on the planet who don't go by Kim :) ), and I was looking
for Jamie Kline who was suppossed to be there (if you were, I missed you, but
was yelling your name!), finally got to meet Cheryl, and attempted to convince
her to return to the list (unfortunately right now her computer is in the
shop), and finally met David Smith (thanks again!).  The day was beautiful -
the sun was shining, the beer was flowing, and the music was great.  I
especially like Evelyn Forever.  The Connells did a great set (though a little
too short) - very upbeat, and the crowd was really jumping.  In fact, one guy
was DETERMINED to try to crowd surf, even though he got dropped on his head
about four times.  All in all, it was an incredible time.

DC was quite  a bit of fun as well, though much more of a hassle.  The traffic
and the crowds were ridiculous.  FreedomFest, however, was great.  In about
three hours I got to see Cowboy Mouth, the Connells, and the Smithereens.  Too
cool.   Anyway, the Connells played a lot of the same stuff as Ortley Beach -
kept the whole set really upbeat - and again, the crowd for them was large and
really into it.  I was impressed, and I've been to a lot of Connells shows.
At this show, Lisa and I got to meet Joe the Black Park intern (hello Joe!)
and a few other die-hard fans who aren't on the listserve.

Anyway, I just wanted to check in to say that I'm really happy with the
Connells shows I've seen so far this year.  They really seem to be in top
form, and the crowds seem to know it.  I think this could be the tour that
really does it for them.  I know I am enjoying it.  Oh, geez, I can't believe
I almost forgot - for all of us people who have been clamoring about a
Philadelphia show -----  YEAH!! They're playing the TLA at the end of August
(I think the 26th, but don't hold me to that).   Yeah!!!!   OK, enough out of
me, God Bless the Connells,
Kimberly :}