Dear Laurel and Hardywood Attendees:

I returned from my 5,800-plus mile road trip to and from Chicago on Sunday and went back to work Monday. No rest for the wicked!

I would first like to thank you all for attending the convention and putting your trust, expectations and money in my hands. It was a massive undertaking to pull off this convention. I knew full well what I was getting into and was willing to do so. As I stated in Manchester, it was now or never as this was a convention like no other. We were mobile most of the time; most of the activities were not based at the hotel. We are all getting to an age where we need to pace ourselves and the number of celebrity guests dwindles each year. (We lost three potential guests within a two-week period of the convention.) I am glad we struck when the iron was hot.

The many comments I got each day during the convention regarding how pleased and happy people were meant so much. As the planner and coordinator of Laurel and Hardywood, I sometimes saw things from a different perspective. It was nice to hear at the time of the event that people were enjoying themselves and appreciating my efforts.

When I returned from my road trip, I received many nice comments and messages on email and thank you notes via the mail. Even many of the celebrities sent messages of thanks, mentioning what a wonderful time they had and how great it was to meet so many enthusiastic fans. I will treasure all of these. Many of the notes were very touching and it was gratifying to hear that my efforts and those of the few helpers I had really paid off in a big way with such a huge impact on the Sons who attended. One couple mentioned the slightly higher expense of this convention and hotel and recognized that they received their money’s worth and more. I am glad people felt this way.

I would like to thank the folks who pitched in at the convention, but may not have been recognized during the farewell brunch. You know who you are and thank you! And finally, the standing ovation I received at the brunch touched my heart deeply even though the ham in me couldn’t resist the Sally Field comment. I will remember that moment forever!

Nearly 500 photos have been posted to the convention website. You may view the photos at http://www.laurelandhardywood.com/gallery/

Thank you again!

Bob Satterfield
Laurel and Hardywood Chairman