lcfc party reports

1999: Alan & Monica's Anni-Misery Party
Aimee Calabrese

Leslie Charleson and her fan club held their annual Brunch with the Quartermaines on July 24th, 1999 at the Universal Hilton. The Drs. Quartermaine tumultuous relationship was the theme for this year's event, which was fittingly entitled "Alan and Monica's Anni-Misery Party". Ironically, the event was anything but miserable.

After all the fans gathered and were seated it was time for the introduction of the cast members. From the side entrance of the room walked in Stephen T. Kay, Patricia Healy, Amber Tamblyn, Wally Kurth, Billy Warlock and the lovely Anna Lee escorted by John Ingle. Now at this point, the fans were anxiously awaiting the entrance of the guests of honor. And what an entrance they made! All of a sudden one of the rear doors opened and in walked Leslie Charleson. Then the other rear door opened and Stuart Damon immediately followed. They were both in character bantering back and forth while slowly moving to the front of the room. By now, the whole audience was on their feet howling with laughter. It just reminded this fan why she watches "General Hospital", for the mere enjoyment and entertainment of these two talented actors. Nobody does it better! When they finally reached the front of the room the fans and cast joined John Ingle in a toast to the "happy" or should I say "not so happy" couple.

Next it was time to eat. The brunch had everything from champagne to chocolate covered strawberries. In between noshing, the fans were treated to a surprise visit from Brad Maule who made a brief appearance to say hello. It was then time for the question and answer session. Every actor was asked a question. The most memorable answer had to be when Stuart was asked what Alan and Monica do with those strawberries. All I can say is his answer even left Leslie speechless. Unfortunately, Wally Kurth, Anna Lee and Amber Tamblyn had to leave the event early.

After the question and answer session Stuart took over as MC for the raffle where fans got a chance to win some Quartermaine memorabilia. The rest of the time was left for the fans to meet the stars. Each actor started in a different section of the room making their way around to each person at each table to sign autographs and take pictures.

Many thanks need to be addressed. I just want to thank all the actors who took the time to come out and meet the fans. Everyone was so warm and personable. I also want to thank the two coordinators of this event, Krista Dragna and Kay Marrs for all their hard work and time they put into planning and preparing for this event. It was well organized, fun and very classy. A special thanks to Suzy Stephens who created the program that consisted of a montage of A&M photos and classic A&M quotes as well as the mugs fans got to take home as a favor. This party ROCKED!!