Wonka Reunion 1998!
This page is image intense! Be patient!)
The October 1998 Wonka Reunion was three of the best days of my life! It was held in Secaucus, New Jersey. I couldn't have asked for anything better. There are no words to describe the way I was felt.
Friday night Peter Ostrum had not arrived yet. I spent alot of time with Paris Themmen (Mike TeeVee) and Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt). I also sat and talked with well known Wonka biographer, Gene Crowell. These three people were the best!
First, Gene. He made me see that I'm really not all that crazy for being so interested in Wonka. Considering that his knowledge of the film far out-weighs mine. Also, just recently, when I started to stray from the "Wonka is God concept", One phone call to Gene started it right back up! Gene is a great guy and I thank him for all he has done in the world of Wonka! No individual has done what he has done for this fabulous, classic film!
Second, Paris. Paris is just about the most friendly guy I've ever met in my life! You couldn't ask for a more cool guy. I think there was only one time during the whole convention when I looked at him and he wasn't smiling! Meeting him and having him talking with me while signing autographs for others was great!!
I spent alot of time in front of Julie Dawn Cole too. We talked some and I got some great pictures of her. She's the best! Very out-going and always happy like Paris.
Another person that I talked to a lot was Diana Sowle (Mrs. Bucket) She was there with her husband. They were both great people. I cant say enough good about either of them.
When I was with these people, I felt as if I knew them since childhood. I grew up with them. I've heard them speak the same lines over and over and over again. It was a very weird but fabulous experience.
On Saturday, Peter Ostrum arrived. I was amazed to see him. Charlie was now a long mustached Doctor instead of a little boy holding a gold ticket into the air! He was also very nice. He seemed happy to be there with childhood friends.
Alright, Alright, enough already. I'm sure you could care less about what I think of people. There were some great press conferences where I picked up on some new Wonka Facts and stuff. Then as soon as it started, it all ended.
Now, what you really want to see, Pictures!

Me & Julie Dawn Cole

Me & Paris Themmen

Paris with Julie signing autographs in the background

Me and Julie Dawn Cole
This is me holding Julie's plaque made by Schrum Studios

Julie standing proud with her plaque

Me and Paris

Here's me with Gene Crowell. The two biggest Wonka Fans!

You're probably asking, "Who's that?" Well, that's Bob Roe A.K.A. Peter Goffe from the classroom scene! "I opened about a hundred!"

I know this isnt a good scan but i'm in a hurry! From left to right we have: Paris Themmen, Julie Dawn Cole, Peter Ostrum, Gene Crowell, and Diana Sowle
More pics coming soon!!
I do have some pics from the 1998 reunion that I'd like to post I just haven't got around to posting them yet. Maybe next week.
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