lcfc party reports

2001: Our Adventure with the Quartermaines
Karen Corbin, Anita Harkness, Julia Harlon, & Lori Horaney

Our mutual admiration of the Quartermaines brought us together on the ABC Q board and would take us on an incredible journey to the Universal Hilton to meet the "first family of Port Charles". After meeting in the lobby and chatting briefly we were on to Ballroom A and the event we had all been waiting for. The entrance to the Ballroom marked the beginning of a very memorable afternoon.

Each of the tables in Ballroom A were adorned with elegant floral arrangements. After locating our tables we were immediately drawn to the items on display for the raffle. Some of the items included were: copies of the PC Herald, scripts from the non-renewal of Alan and Monica's vows, props from Alexis's dream sequence during the "almost marriage" of Ned and Alexis, Monica's wedding rings, and various items from the set.

As everyone took their seats the moment we had anxiously anticipated arrived. Krista began the introduction of the Quartermaine family and friends which was met with thunderous applause. Charming Susan Brown (Gail) was the first to arrive followed by the handsome Jeffrey Byron (Anna Lee's son and Dr. Boardman of PC), dynamic Stephen Kay (Reggie), dashing Wally Kurth (Ned), vibrant Amber Tamblyn (Emily), adorable Billy Warlock (AJ), the incomparable Anna Lee (Lila - who received a standing ovation), distinguished John Ingle (Edward), "the Prince" Stuart Damon (Alan), and "the Goddess" Leslie Charleson (Monica). The fans roared their approval during the introduction of Leslie and Stuart. What an incredible sight seeing our beloved Q's in the flesh!!

While we were treated to a delectable meal, (something we would expect to be served at the mansion) the actors responded to individual questions. Susan would welcome the opportunity to return to GH and work with Monica, Stephen is directing a new film, Wally assured us that the Q's would remain a part of GH, Amber spoke about her pilot being picked up, Billy wants a woman for AJ and joked that it is bad when your sister starts to look good, John enjoys playing Edward, Anna wanted a front burner storyline for Lila and is working on her autobiography. Stuart responded that the writers did not write for Alan to tell Monica about his relationship with Rae. He beamed when asked about Alexander and how well he is doing. Leslie expressed the wonders of Africa and encouraged everyone to go should the opportunity present itself.

One of the most touching moments came when Amber was surprised with an enormous cake complete with best wishes for her future endeavors and upcoming series. The respect, admiration, and love shared by Amber, Stuart, and Leslie was witnessed by all.

Leslie presided over the raffle with style and grace. She provided a jovial commentary about the raffle items as many adoring fans won keepsakes. Some of the lighter moments included: Stuart and Billy teasing Leslie about having notes (or lack thereof) in her scripts, and when both Stuart and Billy escorted Amber to and from the restroom.

The brunch came to an end all too quickly. It was absolutely delightful to meet the wonderful people behind the characters we have grown to love. The Quartermaines are loved by many and it is easy to see why they are funny, caring, and angry to the extreme. The opportunity to spend some time with the characters' counterparts was an amazing treat!! Their devotion and gracious attitude toward the fans was evident as they posed for pictures and signed autographs. The Quartermaine actors are loved for their incredible acting talents as well as their charismatic personalities.

Thank you to Leslie, Krista, and Kay for an unforgettable afternoon with the Quartermaines. We eagerly await next year's "MAINE" event.