Woodstock

WOODSTOCK, THE NEWSLETTER OF
THE WONDER YEARS INFORMATION SOCIETY,
UPSTAIRS FLAT, 1 ANCRUM COURT
HAWICK, SCOTLAND, TD9 7DB



(Kyle's note - I've done a slight edit for OCR typos and spelling mistakes, etc. And don't send money or enter the contests - this is old stuff. Doug may still get mail, though, and might like to get some. I inherited this from Bren, who hosted it for a while after D**** had it. The following is D****'s original message.)

*
Woodstock was the first newsletter for Wonder Years fans and was sent out on a semi-regularly basis a long time before the first Wonder Years website was created. It was the first forum for fans to express their thoughts and opinions - at the time the series was still filmed.

Here are the issues that I have at home. (Thanks to Bob Chell for sending them to me.) They are scanned using OCR software that is able to recognize text. I've reviewed the articles, but there may still be some errors. In general, I did not correct ANY mistake that occured. I'm sorry that a few lines may be missing - that's because they are missing on my copies.

The pictures were also scanned - they are JPEG compressed pictures, scanned from a copy of a b&w copy. The quality is sometimes quite poor, but I can't improve them.





The Included Issues

March 91, #2
January 92, issue #5
April 92, issue #6
August 92, issue #7
The Wonder Years Magazine, Vol 2 #1, 1993
April 94, the last issue





NEWSLETTER 2 - MARCH 1991

INFO. SOCIETY NEWS
How do. Time for the second newsletter already. About time, too, you say. Thanks for your patience. This is the new, re-vamped newsletter, "Woodstock", which I thought was an OK name for a newsletter-type thing. You may notice a slight change in the address at the top, don't worry about that. I'm still at the same place, but some of the mail was going to 18 or 13 instead of 1B so I thought I'd try to do something to make things less complicated. Quite a feast of WY related stuff to report on this time, which you'll see inside, though as I write, I don't think there'll be the double issue that I rather rashly proposed. It's an improvement though. Sad to report the continued non-interest of New World International to my correspondence; I have also received no reply from an address I received for the new series. I'll keep trying, but only up to a point as I'm using my own pennies, not WYIS funds, and it's not cheap to send stuff to the US especially when you include IRC's. There are no new members joining, which is frustrating, but once this letter is out, I'll be starting a media blitz where I'll be taking out ads, in attempt to attract more folks to the fold. Again I'll be using my own money, so send pennies! Big thanks to the few who've kept in touch, I'll repeat my pleas for pix and info, see you again in June, maybe!...Toodleloo!

Doug.

WY NEWS

Since the last newsletter, we've been snowed under with lovely WY happenings, not least the start of the third series on Sunday evenings. The episodes so far, in my opinion, are every bit the equal of the first two series which is reassuring, some episodes better than others, but that was always the way. Some of the actors ain't so cute, but they've gotta grow up I suppose. C4 has recently been running a nice advert to promote the series using Donovan's "Catch the Wind", perhaps a little sentimental, but nice nevertheless. Fred Savage was hardly off the screen over the festive period - reviews inside. I also caught a glimpse of him on C4's "The Word", singing on "People that Care"'s video, "a non-political support (record) for troops in the Gulf" which also features such luminaries as Whoopi Goldberg and Richard Gere. Plurrg! C'mon, the guy's way too young to understand the full consequences of the conflict, what was he doing getting involved in something like this? I blame the parents. The only other sightings I made were both of Jason Hervey (Wayne). Everyone, I guess, has seen "Back to the Future", but he was also to be seen in "Pee-Wee Hermans Big Adventure" in an uncredited role. Quite entertaining really. The fact that I've been unable to make contacts in the US means I've no other news, but we'll get there eventually!

Series 1 Episode 2 "SWINGERS"

This, the first episode proper, opens with Brian Cooper's funeral, and the resulting party, for want of a better word. Kevin's mind cannot stray from Winnie though, but Brian's "ghost" appears telling him to lay off her a little while, "Give her a little time".

Bang! "The female reproductive system". It's gym with Mr. Cutlip and it's sex education time. This is one of the great scenes in the whole series and cannot really be done justice to on paper, but the "cows head" and "whole lady" just kill me. The class is given "Health and Human Sexuality" textbooks and is expressly forbidden from reading past chapter two.

Wayne is not impressed with the new book and sets about giving his own lesson, bringing into play baseball metaphors. "Everybody gets to at least second base by seventh grade" he tells Kevin and Paul. "This was a lot of pressure, especially since most of the girls we knew had no second bases" thinks Kevin. Wayne advises them to get a book with a very long title. Tbe pair rush to the bookstore, buy a copy of "War and Peace" and "Ivanhoe", and "steal" a copy of the naughty book cos there's a "lady" on the counter. Actually, they don't steal it cos they leave more than enough money on their way out. They cover the two miles to Kevin's house in "just under four seconds". Lunch prevents them from perusing the book and the dirty dishes take them "just under four seconds". Back to the bedroom, but the book is gone! Found by Wayne! A fight! Kaboom! Wrestle! On the floor! "What is going on in here?" says Mom. "Oh my God!" she says on spying the book, "Kevin, I am so disappointed in you.." she continues, "it's not so much you reading this book, but what were you doing in my dresser drawers, anyway?" Whoops! One of the great mistakes in history. Kevin hears nothing more on the subject so guesses his mother realised her mistake pretty quickly.

Kevin and Winnie go for a pre-arranged walk and not a lot happens. "Grown-up" Kevin waffles on the usual sentimental nonsense.

Guests
Robert Picardo as Cutlip
Bentley Mitchum as Brian Cooper
William Bogert as Preacher
Bobbie Eakes as Bookstore Clerk
Douglas Emerson as Kid No. 1
Danny McMurphy as Kid No. 2
Dante Basco as Kid No. 3

Songs
Buffalo Springfield - "For What It's Worth"
Aaron Neville - "Tell it Like it Is"
Another Song (Kyle's note..."Young Girl" - Gary Puckett & The Union Gap)

*Note - I'm gonna have to start reviewing a couple of episodes every newsletter from now on, otherwise it is going to take quite literally years to get through them all.

"BOB HOPE'S ALL-AMERICAN TRIBUTE TO OPRAH WINFREY" C4, shown 26.12.90

Oh dear. I've been sick. An all-singing, all-dancing "This is your life"? Yuck. How much do I hate American TV? How much do I dislike American TV personalities? Ooh, THIS MUCH!

But, being the professional that I am, I sat through this fun-packed hour just to bring you, our precious members, the lowdown an Fred's appearance on this tribute show, shown on Boxing day, but recorded earlier last year. All the things that I could have been doing instead!

And what happens? An hour-long programme and Fred is on screen for 1 minute and 42 seconds, not including fleeting glimpses during the end credits. Jeez. Reading beautifully from his cue-cards, Fred rattled on about underprivileged children and illiteracy before introducing a video from Babs Bush, long-suffering wife of some absolute nutter. Made my Yuletide. Why do I do this? Do you care? This was crap.

Convicted - A Mothers Story (1987) (Shown on C4 earlier this year)
Ann Jillian, Fred Savage

I'm mad. I didn't think I'd have to suffer stuff like this. A weepie! I've never watched nonsense like this in my life before! A TV movie! Oh blimey. Actually I'm lying. I didn't watch it. At least not properly. I ended up fast forwarding through it, watching the bits where Fred popped up. Anyway, this was about a wife who was naughty and got put in prison. That's it really. Life in a women's prison eh? Just think, if you missed this, chances are you'll never get the chance to see it again. Shame! Oh, and Fred was..er..small.

COMPETITION TIME!! AGAIN!!

Does Doug's generosity know no bounds? Nah!! How would you like to be the proud owner of the original photograph of Kevin and Paul on their bikes as used elsewhere in this newsletter? You would? Then send me the answer to this question (inside an envelope so the postie can't laugh):

In the second series, Kevin formed a band. What were they called?

Seeing as the other comp. was kinda easy, thought I'd make this one a bit tougher. As a result, I'll only get one reply. Who cares.

THE WIZARD (Guild Home Video)
Starring Fred Savage, Luke Edwards, Jenny Lewis, Christian Slater, Beau Bridges.

Pleasantly surprised. That's what I was after watching this, which I suppose you've already seen, but if not, then I hope you get the opportunity to see it soon. Anyway, I'm such an old cynic that I thought this would be an abysmal, horrible, kiddies adventure-type thingy, but to me, it comes over like a cross between a road movie, "Stand By Me" and "Rain Man". If I'd seen the latter it would be a more accurate comparison, but I haven't so I'm guessing.

The plot is basically about a boy's (Savage as Corey) attempts to get his little brother (Edwards) cross-country to a computer game championship in California. They team up with the streetwise Haley (Lewis) on-route and have lots of beezer times trying to outwit parents, private detective types etc., and there's a fair bit of slap-stick style comedy throughout to broaden the movie's appeal. It loses its way a bit when they finally reach their destination but I can't fault it really. Good performances from all concerned, Savage returning to form after his disappointing showing in "Little Monsters".

Anyway, as I say, I enjoyed the movie and would recommend it to WYIS members and their families, in my best TV Times style. And I'm happy to announce the imminent marriage of my good self to the young Miss Lewis just as soon as she's old enough to handle an old sea-dog like me.


























NEWSLETTER 5 - January 1992

Info. Society News

Happy New Year. Slightly late, but circumstances suggested it was for the best. I've had lots of work to do which was (shock...) more important than Woodstock and also if I'd put it out in December it would have been sorta out of date as a result of all the happenings lately. I've even had to keep some material over for next time as we can't really afford to expand as it takes money out of next issues budget. We're into our second year! From tiny acorns do grow, well, small info societies. I reckon we've done not too bad but by no means are we perfect; our failure to establish Stateside contacts has been disappointing but maybe this year something will work out. This issue has a different features which I hope will be of interest and much of the material has been contributed which I'm grateful for. Credits somewhere else, apologies if I've forgotten anyone #4 was time for our original members to rejoin and about 50% chose to do so. As I've never done this kinda thing before, I don't know whether that's good or bad but let's just say if that continues I'm going to be writing for a dozen people in a years' time. I've decided not to give out my new address because I'm going to be on the move a lot so keep writing to the above address, though there might be a few delays in replying etc. On this point, one or two letters which were re-addressed to me seem to have gone astray so if you wrote with some fabbo info or something and it doesn't seem to have been included, drop us a line. Haven't got a clue when #6 will appear, but in the meantime, remember to keep in touch regarding anything WY related, no matter how trivial or simply tell us all about your holidays. SAE for a reply! Doing time on the Woodstock decks U2 "Achtung Baby", Nirvana "Nevermind", Soundgarden "Badmotorfinger", Thee Hypnotics "Soul, Glitter and Sin", Cathy and Kylie; Reads - The Guardian on a Monday, "Searchlight" and lots of ludicrously expensive textbooks...Later...

WONDER YEARS NEWS

As I write, a week or so before Christmas day, embarking on seven weeks or so of holidays, much of the WY events have still to happen. Firstly, on Xmas day itself, a half-hour compilation entitled "Clipshow" is to be broadcast on C4, with a new series, apparently of only four episodes beginning in January. In an ideal world I would have been able to inform you of this so you wouldn't miss them but by doing that (i.e., putting out the newsletter early) would have meant excluding reviews of some of them. As it has worked out I'm planning to wait until the first episode, see what's happening, then get this thing out as soon as possible, with considered reaction next time. Anyway, it's all very exciting and there should be some related features with-in. Other top story is the release of the first WY video, which I haven't seen yet but there's a review inside (??!!). The Xmas special mentioned last......
(Sorry, the last line is missing...D*****)

...Both "Vice Versa" and "Little Monsters" have been on satellite, as have "Beyond The Stars" and "Howard Beach."(see inside) (Note: if any satellite owners would be prepared to tape some of this stuff for me, drop me a line) "The Wizard" is also now out on video to buy meaning all Savage's major work is available...Paul Hollway informs us that in the Simpson's episode "Three Men & a Comic Book", broadcast 22nd Sept., "a brief but instantly recognisable parody of TWY (appeared). The scenario is that Homer, Bart's father, outwits Bart in an argument to extract $100 for a rare comic. As the camera focuses on Barts face, the strains of the Byrds 'Turn, Turn, Turn' are heard and then a voice (provided by Daniel Stern) is heard saying how he, Bart, is close to his father and how he understands him." Sounds fun to us... Staying with Stern, "City Slickers" opened in the UK to near rave reviews, proving to be this year's surprise 'sleeper' hit in the USA comparable to "Ghost" or "Home Alone" last year. Meanwhile, Fred Savage had a starring role in a new Xmas tv-movie over the holiday "Christmas On Division Street", which by all accounts was too sugary and sentimental as the Yanks are prone to be. It's unlikely to appear over here unless Sky picks it up...One of the songs we didn't know last time was in fact Otis Redding singing 'I've Been Loving You Too Long'....Just to get really obscure, I saw the actress who played Teri in the "Summer Song"(?, anyway the Ocean City one) in "Pump Up the Volume", the Christian Slater movie about a pirate radio DJ who has reasonable taste in music...wewhew!! more next time!!!

THE WONDER YEARS - (Leisure View Video Price @£0.99)

I imagine I was not the only one to be a little surprised to discover this on the shelf of Woolies on one of my regular bargain-hunting trips. One of the functions of Woodstock should be to give advance warning of such events but we were completely in the dark. The people who put this out are the same people who distribute the series in the UK and we're on reasonable terms with them so YOU think they could have let US know, but it was not to be. To make up for this we tried to cadge some freebies but no luck there either.

The video case itself is quite nice, the fluorescent lettering really makes it stand out and the blurb on the back is OK though calling the series "beautiful" and the vid "superb" is perhaps a bit much. As to the content of the tape, well, it's simply a compilation of the first four episodes of the first series (which is not made clear on the box) so how exciting this is really depends if you already have them on tape. For those new to the show this is more interesting than it may be to others.

It seems unlikely that this sees the beginning of a massive re-issue series a la "Star Trek" or "Dr. Who", but it is good to have something in the marketplace. As to whether it is an essential purchase or not depends on the reasons above. For those without a collection of episodes on tape this is a good memento of the show, or for the collector it becomes a rare piece of memorabilia when there is so little available, yet ultimately the choice is yours.

STOP PRESS etc.

Further to my apologies for lateness on pg.1, more are necessary. I've been typewriter ribbon-less for a while and had a few probs getting a new one, sorry!...I've had so many helps this time (well more than usual) I'd have to give over half a page to thanks, so instead I'll just say a big thank you to everyone who contributed information etc. Even if your name isn't on these pages somewhere don't think I don't appreciate your stuff, gifts etc. I luvs y'all! Please keep the nonsense coming in, no matter how trivial, I need all the help I can get!...Finally, at the request of Stuart Foulkes who said he'd enclosed a mugshot of himself, but didn't and had these fantasies all about your fave editor, I look a bit like this, but less round and minus the ace complexion........

Who's Who in The Wonder Years

Starting below is our first look at the actors and actresses behind the characters in the show. All notes are taken from official New World TV biographies with any of our own additions highlighted by being bracketed. This issue we start with the Arnold adults Jack and Norma played by Dan Lauria and Alley Mills. All biographies are correct as of early 1991 and should give a good idea of their careers so far.

DAN LAURIA - ..never thought twice about it when he would come home from school and his aunt would order him to "eat up your supper and go to sleep." Later, in the middle of the night, she would wake him up with charmed words such as "James Cagney" or "Jimmy Stewart". Watching classic black-and-white movies has become a lifelong love of Lauria's. It gave him his first glimmer of what he would like to do in life - act.

But as a kid growing up in the blue-collar Lindenhurst, Long Island, Lauria didn't have much chance to think about acting. With his rugged, athletic build, the young Lauria lived and breathed sports, taking up everything from football - he was captain of his high school and college teams - to wrestling and baseball.

He won a football scholarship to attend Southern Connecticut University. One day on the practice field, he was telling a joke to his teammates when he felt a tap on his helmet. "You're an actor son" said Constance Welch, acclaimed head of the Yale Dramat (?) for 30 years. "I need you for a play." Lauria studied with Ms. Welch over the course of six years. Graduating from college with a double B.A. degree in US History and Philosophy (!!), he served from 1970 to '73 as a captain in the Marine Corps !!

Lauria's professional stage career began in the early '70s at the Washington Theater Club in Washington DC. He has since accumulated an impressive roster of performances in 54 plays. From his home base in New York, he spent 12 years touring on the road, and has had roles in numerous off-off-Broadway (?) productions. He also worked for nine years as dramatic director for the Raft Theater in Manhattan. He wrote a number of full-length plays that were produced there, among them "Game Plan" and "The Setup", both of which later moved to off-Broadway. In Los Angeles, he recently launched a new theatre company for which he works staging plays as director and producer.

He made his TV debut on the daytime soap "Love Of Life", and starred on several others, as well as doing a two-year stint on "One Life To Live". The chance to co-star with Carroll O'Connor in "Brass" took him to the West Coast. Some of his other TV credits include guest-starring roles on "Moonlighting", "Growing Pains" (where he was spotted by Marlens for TWY?), "Spenser: For Hire", "LA Law", "Simon & Simon", "Hill Street Blues" and "Scarecrow and Mrs. King". He's had recurring roles on "Cagney and Lacey" and "Hooperman". His feature film credits indude "Without A Trace" with Judd Hirsch and Kate Nelligan and "Stakeout" with Emilio Estevez and Richard Dreyfuss. He most recently starred in ABC's "David" and the NBC movie "Making the case for Murder: The Howard Beach Story" (Where his lines were limited to 'Yes Boss').

Single, Lauria still heads for New York whenever he can. He makes his LA home a haven for struggling new actors and actresses (Chap!) and is an active member of a Vietnam Veteran's theatre group (Chap!). He claims that his one professional ambition is to work with Jimmy Stewart.

ALLEY MILLS..as a fifth grader in the exclusive Miss Spence School for Girls in Manhattan, Alley was given the role of the lion in a production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream". Her roaring success (oh dear) hooked her on acting forever.

She grew up the youngest of three children in a New York household devoted to the creative arts. Her mother was art editor of "American Heritage" magazine for many years, and her father, Ted Mills, was a TV producer, writer and director, later becoming an executive at NBC. Alley's stepmother, Genevieve Mills, a French singer and actress, was often seen on the "Jack Parr Show", and her stepfather, Chester Kerr, was publisher of Yale University Press. Aged eight, Alley made her TV debut on the "Patti Page Show". She studied drama whilst attending boarding school at Dana Hall and during summers, she performed, first as an apprentice, then as a company member, of the prestigous Williamstown Theater Festival in Massachussetts. She made her professional stage debut along with actors such as Sigourney Weaver, Christopher Reeve and Peter Evans.

In 1971, after two years at Bennington College in Vermont, Alley switched to Yale, where she became one of the first woman undergraduates ever admitted (Chap!). She graduated magna cum laude in 1973 with a BA degree in drama and the History of Art. The blonde, blue-eyed actress then went to England and earned an MA degree at the acclaimed London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts. She returned to New York, were she appeared in several off-Broadway plays, toured nationally as Juliet in "Romeo & Juliet" and performed opposite Geraldine Fitzgerald in A New York Shakespeare Festival prduction of "A Collier's Friday Night."

A cross-country camping trip took Alley to Los Angeles. The week she arrived, she was offered a role in "Voices" at the LA Actors Theater. Immediately after that, she landed her first TV series lead role in ABC's hit "The Associates" opposite Martin Short. Gary Goldberg cast her in the lead in the telefilm, "The Bureau" about Vietnam, and then as a regular in CBS's "Making the Grade". Among her numerous other TV credits include "Moonlighting", "Lou Grant", "Hill Street Blues" and "I Married Dora". Some of her TV-movie credits include guest-starring parts in "The Other Woman", "The Atlanta Child Murders", "Starting Over" with Stephanie Powers; "To Heal A Nation" and "I Love You Perfect". Alley also hosted ABC's "The Home Show", where she was a great hit.

While still a Bennington student, Alley landed her first feature-film role - a scene opposite Frank Langella in "Diary Of A Mad Housewife". Her other roles include "Young Lust" and the female lead in "Going Berserk" opposite John Candy. She often works in the LA theatre community, performing at the renowned Mark Taper Forum, the Odyssey and the Matrix. Currently, she is an active member of the Founding Company.

Alley loves camping in the mountains, "junking" for treasures for her little New England-style cottage, jazz dancing and reading. But there is nothing more important to her than working for world peace, which she does at every opportunity. (Doesn't beat around the bush obviously). She is now, proudly, the national spokesperson for Just Say No International. She is single and makes her home in LA.

Next time - Jason Hervey and Olivia D'abo.

Series 1 - Episode 7 "Heart Of Darkness"

This episode starts with a rather Freudian dream sequence concerning tunnels and pyjamas with feet. Kevin is mixing with rather dubious characters, namely Gary Cosay (Breckin Meyer) who is perhaps a bit too cool for his own good. Meanwhile, he is snubbing Winnie somewhat, even Paul thinks she is getting to be snobby ever since she got her contact lenses.

Gary persuades the pair to camp out at the weekend, to which they eventually agree. They bring along the marshmallows and Twinkies, but Gary has beer and 200 cigarettes. Tentatively at first, K & P indulge but soon get into the swing of things. Paul gets the giggles and suggests they do something. Much to Kev's horror, Gary knows of a cave which turns out to be a storm drain. Frightened by Gary's tales of lost explorers they return home somewhat wiser. About what I'm not really sure; something to do with not trying to grow up too quick I suppose.

Not an easy episode to review. Normal service resumed soon. Daniel Stern is credited as "Really Special Guy".

Guest Stars
Michael Landes - Kirk McCray
Donnie Jeffcoat - Kirk's friend
Shantel Cropper - Cool Girl
Linda Hoy - Mrs. Ritvo

Songs
The Doors - "Riders On the Storm"
Richie Havens - "Here Comes The Sun"
Cream - "Sunshine Of Your Love"

Go Shopping The Woodstock Way

You really should send a SAE to Keith Rogers, 57 Fircroft Close, Tilehurst, Reading RG3 6LJ. He now has over 50 different Fred and WY pix for sale and can also supply copies of scripts amongst other goodies!!

Shhh! But if you send an SAE to J. Williarns, 44 Cabin Lane, Oswestry, Shropshire SYll 2LL, he might just be able to sort you out those Wonder Years episodes that are missing from your vid collection. Remember, schtum, schtum!!

WOODSTOCK is © 1992 Woodstock Prods. and I promise never to use that horrible type that's all joined up and impossible to read, a bit like this and gives you a spinning head and you end up coming on like Lewis Carroll...bye....

SAY IT LOUD, SAY IT PROUD! THE WOODSTOCK LETTERS PAGE

Here are a few of the letters I've received since the last issue to inspire everyone that hasn't written to do just that. It's easy! First off, Andy Ratcliff from Oldham massages my aching ego...

"I would like to congratulate you on putting together an interesting and informative newsletter on what has obviously been a shoestring budget".

Short, sweet and to the point, we love you too, Andy! In response to my thumbs up for the third series, Simon Brickwood (again!) had this to say...

"..in my own personal opinion, TWY is beginning to show a few cracks around the edges. The third series was definitely weaker than the first two and showed a tendency towards increasing sentimentality. "The Accident" and "Graduation" dwelt quite obsessively with Kevin's desire to hang onto the past, with an almost constant feeling that "...things will never be the same again..". I'd also single out "A Very Cutlip Christmas" as an appalling low point in the series, along with the characterization of Madeline (A nation gasps!-Doug). The 20-year-old who played her was completely unconvincing as the 14-year-old siren she was supposed to be - her interest in Kevin struck me as distinctly unhealthy and defeated its own purpose (But we still love her!-Doug) Having said that, there were some good episodes, my own favourite being "The House That Jack Built".

For John Elliot of Newbury, however, the third series "..returned TWY to its former best after marking time in the second. There were absolute classics in it: Wayne and Kevin fighting over Karen's room, the school trip, "The Accident", "Graduation" all of which my video is getting tired of playing!!"

See how easy it is to get your name in print? Get writing! Note!! Dictatorial editor says "Feel free to send massive letters if you wish but due to space limitations there isn't room to print them all, so I reserve the right to edit them down for inclusion. Hope you understand, scribble away, especially your views on latest developments.

WHERE DOES THE ARNOLD FAMILY LIVE? THE CONTINUING SAGA...

If you remember, I rambled somewhat incoherently last time regarding the Arnold's place of residence. A veritable flood of theories - well, two - arrived to clear up matters. Cough. Firstly, Steven Woods thinks they live on the East coast. Why? "I seem to recall Kevin is a New York Jets supporter.." and Steven then proceeds, with the aid of a mind-boggling array of Yank football facts and figures, to explain why a West coast kid wouldn't support an East coast team. "Secondly, I took Ocean City to be synonymous with Atlantic City - a famous coastal resort on the East coast." Finally, and perhaps most conclusively "..in the episode 'The Ties That Bind', Jack is promoted to Regional Manager of Norcom and has to spend his Thanksgiving in Philadelphia", another Eastern city. So what? Well surely someone would be expected to move to the region he was controlling unless he was already living there! "QED!" However, Mr. Brickwood has some other ideas..."I had assumed that the location for the WY was West coast, in the vicinity of Los Angeles but have come to the conclusion that it is in fact composite American suburbia (Mmmm!-Doug). Part of the reason for this is that Ocean City is in New Jersey, about 25 miles south along the East coast from Atlantic City and I'm not aware of any others" So the evidence seems to be pointing towards TWY being based somewhere in the East rather than I had previously thought, but maybe someone out there has the missing clues in the "Mystery of the Family with no fixed abode"...

"Clipshow (Looking Back)" Channel 4 25.12.91

In my heart, I like to think it was no co-incidence this was shown when it was a prime slot if there ever was one and a reflection of the esteem someone at C4 holds the show in. Obviously put together as an extended trailer for use in the States, the 20-odd minute show combined choice scenes and images from the series, notably the first two, with a new narration from Daniel Stern.

I guess it was an acknowledgement that indeed we were entering a new chapter in "The Wonder Years".

THE FOURTH SERIES - "The Lake" (C4 5.1.92)

It was with some apprehension that I approached this first in a new set of stories, after all, hadn't a summer romance been done before and how could the show continue without Dan Lauria? I needn't have worried. Firstly there was Dan firmly in his place, no doubt consoled with a pay role and a pat on the back (my horror stories last time simply re-inforces the fact you should never take the press at its word) and also the partly new title sequence let us know things were moving on. If anything, this first episode was more 'adult'- Paul's condom, the controversial (in the States) breast-touching scene and there seems to be a move from early-teen bewilderment and 'wonder' to an older sense of frustration, even desperation, and certain disillusion. Is Kevin mirroring Karen? His dinner-table rejection of his father's will is strikingly similar to some of her earlier stunts, yet while Karen appeared to always have a cause for her rebellion, Kevin is, as always, more concerned with relationships to look at the outside world. However, on his vacation, he meets Cara (Lisa Gerber) and his eyes seem to be open for the first time. He becomes aware of the pettiness and triviality of his suburban lifestyle (hot dogs or burgers?) and how not everyone is experiencing "The Wonder Years" - in Nowheresville, USA, the boys are "idiots", there's a broken heart to be had every summer and hopes are dependent on the arrival of the driving license.

To say I was suitably impressed with this opening shot is pretty near the mark. Perhaps my favourite WY episodes are the ones like this which verge on being melancholy without getting sentimental. (If I could change one thing about the show it would be for Stern to shut up until he has something funny to say.) As to whether the standard set here is maintained has yet to be seen, and if there do only turn out to be four episodes this time (contractual reasons?), better four like "The Lake" than a hit-or-miss 22.

(When I talk about Lauria's "pay role", I mean raise!!)

Spreading the Woodstock Word

One of the hardest things about trying to keep this whole shebang on the road is finding new members. Having a bigger membership means more money in the coffers and I would also be able to increase the print run which brings costs down, which means I might be able to make Woodstock bigger or improve it in other ways. TWY is a popular show, yet when I look at the membership list there is some strange stuff that jumps off the pages. For example, we have no members from Birmingham or Newcastle! I really don't believe there are no people in these places who don't dig TWY enough to join us, so I guess they just don't know about US. I can't afford to take out advertisements so I rely on free publicity on Teletext, for example, and we recently got included in the Film Review guide to fan clubs but from a readership of say 40,000 (?) I think we got 4 or 5 new members. (I'm running outta space!) So, if I get some posters done would people volunteer to get them put up for a time in your local library, comic shop etc.? Drop me a line if you would or have any other ideas re. places, publications etc. where I could get Woodstock.............(The last two or three words are missing, but that shouldn't be that tragic...D*****)



NEWSLETTER 6 - April 1992

Info. Society News

Not much to tell this time as things have been fairly quiet recently. I am a happy guy 'cos we have our first overseas subscriber! Her name is Pirjo, she's from Finland and is a big fan of the series and our man Fred. Hopefully we'll get lots more interest from Europe in the future and I'm currently trying to get some publicity in the USA with the hope of attracting some Stateside WY fans. This is an important issue for us because a lot of subscriptions come up for renewal and if they aren't then the whole point of putting Woodstock out becomes unclear. I'm determined not to fold through lack of interest, especially as the series itself seems to be at the peak of its success (see feature below), so if you had been thinking about not re-joining, I'd be really grateful if you would consider giving us the benefit of the doubt for another year at least. That seems to be about it I guess, drop me a line sometime and look for #7 sometime during the Summer. It only remains for me to bore you with those crazy sounds that have been dogging up the tape decks at Woodstock HQ - Pearl Jam "Ten", Manic Street Preachers "Generation Terrorists", Love/Hate "Wasted in America", Pixies "Trompe Le Monde"..Soon..

WONDER YEARS NEWS

Is almost as thin on the ground. Obviously we made a big mistake regarding the amount of episodes in the current series. Because we have to rely on second hand information, this is the sort of thing that happens and I guess it's not really on. Must try harder. Anyway, analysis of the series so far inside. According to a new US programme guide-book for 1990/91, the "Looking Back" special shown at Christmas was shown as the 23rd episode of the third series, not as a separate entity in itself. During the filming of a dance sequence for one episode of the current series, Fred was distracted by what appeared to be an underwear-less actress, whose skirt had lifted up. Filming was able to continue once it was discovered that she was actually wearing flesh-coloured unmentionables and Fred's pulse had returned to normal. Ah, to be young and innocent. However, as the National Enquirer revealed in February, perhaps Fred is not as innocent as he makes out. Not only has he been wearing mirrors on his shoes to get exclusive views of female party-goers, he has also been drilling holes in bathroom walls to obtain video tape evidence of guests visits to the smallest room in the house. Sounds like we've got another Chuck Berry or Pee-Wee Hermann in the making. Caught Robert Picardo in trailers for "Loverboy" and "Jack's Back", but I don't want to see either. According to one correspondent, Danica McKellar (Winnie) has left the show, though I can't confirm this at the mo'...Apparently, the divine Julie Condra (Madeline) popped up in Burt Reynolds' "Evening Shade" show but as I've only seen one episode, I don't know if this is a regular role or not.

Keeping fish is a much more wholesome pursuit for a teenager, so when one of Fred's favourites took that final trip to the sewer in the sky, some kind fan sent him a whole aquarium worth to cheer him up. I believe the saying is "Only in America". Daniel Stern, the voice of Kevin the adult, has been making waves of his own, not only in "City Slickers", which is now in the shops to rent, but also in the well received "Coupe de Ville", which, despite its good reception, seems doomed to video hell. Made three years ago, it has only now been given the green light. TV-wise, we've recently been treated to "Inner Space", good film in itself, but topped off with a great Robert Picardo role, 'The Cowboy', a cool crook with fab dress sense. There was also another showing of Fred's big-screen debut, "The Boy Who Could Fly". Raye Birk (Diperna) guest-starred in a recent episode of "Cheers" alongside Harry Connick Jr. The school where TWY is filmed has said "No!" to more episodes because of the disruption caused. "After all, we are in the business of teaching children first". So it looks as if Kev and co will be on the move. That seems to be it for this issue, remember to drop a line if you hear or read about the smallest snippet of news because there is every chance we may have missed it.

AUDIENCES

The first episode of TWY aired in Britain on 2Oth August 1989 to an audience of 1.96 million and ever since then has steadily picked up viewers to a point where it regularly averages around 4 million every week. The first series increased its audience very quickly, nearly doubling its figures to 3.75 million with 'Brightwing', the 17th episode. By the end of the series, the average viewing figure was around 2.75 million. The second series sustained higher audiences more regularly, averaging out at around 3 million for the series as a whole, though there were great differences from episode to episode, 'Cocoa & Sympathy' pulled in 3.41 million, yet the next week 'Daddy's Little Girl' could only scrape together 1.73 million.

The third series appears to have averaged around 3.5 million, though to be honest I have only seen figures for a few episodes and thus would be happy to hear from anyone dedicated enough to have collected them at the time. For the series that is currently airing, the show has again increased the figures for those tuning in. Taking only the numbers for the first two months of the show into account, well over 4 million people are watching every week. 'Triangle' achieved a mighty 4.46 million and 'Dining Out' a credible second at 4.37 million. Though the numbers of viewers has remained pretty constant, TWY has slipped in C4's Top 20 most popular shows, falling out of the top 10 under increased pressure from the likes of 'Roseanne' and 'The Camomile Lawn'. This compares to the earlier episodes in this series which occasionally squeezed into the top 5, beaten only those perennial favourites 'Brockside' and 'Countdown'. More enthralling facts and figures in issue 7.

STOP PRESS - "Christmas on Division St.", Fred's latest TV movie has been picked up for video rental release as should be in the shops even as this issue hits the doorsteps. Can you wait? FREE with the next issue of Woodstock, a complete WY episode title listing!!! Wow!!

WOODSTOCK 6 is © 1992 Woodstock Prods. and the individual contributors. Otherwise all articles/editing/layout(?) etc. by Douglas Baptie. Thanks to Glenn Pratt, Keith Rogers, John Elliot, Simon Brickwood and everyone else who bothered to write.

BOOK REVIEW - GROWING UP IN THE SIXTIES: THE WONDER YEARS BY EDWARD GROSS (PIONEER BOOKS, INC) (ISBN 1-55698-258-5)

This is a large-format paperback book comprising 146 pages and was first printed in 1990. It is a behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Wonder Years, a show that captured the hearts of a generation of baby boomers. Loaded with the personal memories of the writers, directors and cast that make for such magical moments on screen.

The author of the book has written for a variety of publications including Starlog, Premiere, Fangoria and Comics Scene amongst many others. Growing Up In The Sixties began as an article that just grew and grew. It is a complete examination of the first three seasons and touches on the first few episodes of the fourth season and presents an episode-by-episode guide. Each episode guide attempts to list the writers, directors and guest stars although there are a couple of episodes where this has not been done for some reason. The personal memories of the writers and director tend to add that sparkle to the guides which are well written. The author's ability to unearth fascinating facts and trivia should keep your interest. For example, the Coda episode ended up "ten minute too long in rough cut and a fantasy sequence was cut" from the broadcast version. It would be nice to think that perhaps a future video release would include any cut material. It would appear from copies of scripts in my possession that this is not to be the only occasion when this has happened. Mr. Gross also points out the continuity error in the episode, Angel where Kevin watches colour TV but in the episode Christmas Kevin's narration tells us it would be two years before the family would ever get a colour TV. Well spotted!

The book is nicely illustrated with about a dozen black-and-white choice pbotographs from the series. The front cover features a familar colour photograph of Fred Savage, Josh Saviano and Danica McKellar that I last saw on The Wonder Years video and record. The back cover has a lovely shot of Fred in a red jumper and open-necked white shirt.

The book also provides profiles of the cast and creators - Fred Savage, Danica McKellar, Josh Saviano, Olivia d'Abo, Jason Hervey, Dan Lauria and Neal Marlens and Carol Black. Again, Mr. Gross has found some revealing facts but I do not feel that this area has been explored thoroughly and is incomplete. I would have liked to have seen a little more detail and thought Daniel Stern deserved a mention even if he is unseen.

There is an appendix for the writers and directors detailing who is responsible for which episodes. A nice idea but sadly does not include the fourth season episodes reviewed earlier in the book. The numbering of the episodes in the appendix has gone askew and I feel that such a basic error should have been picked up by proof readers. Despite minor flaws, the book is well presented and is very comprehensive. The author has obviously spent a lot of time researching the material and has not just gone out to cash in on the series. It would be good to see an updated publication including up to the minute episode guides and repairing the minor flaws. If you would like to buy the book then perhaps the best way is to approach your local bookshop quoting the title, author, publisher and ISBN nummer detailed above. I suggest you all start saving now as you should expect to pay about £20 for the book. Yes, it is worth the dosh!!

Reviewed by Keith Rogers - THE WONDER YEARS SOUNDTRACK ALBUM

Thanks to everyone who let me know about this. Of course, the big question is, "What is it like?" We had two differing views with regards to its contents, one from our regular musicologist Simon Brickwood, but firstly, here's Keith Rogers' review -

"Eagerly unpacking the record I recognised the familiar yellow, pink and blue writing on the cover. In the centre, is a picture of Fred Savage, Danica McKellar and Josh Saviano smiling. On the reverse there is a small montage of eight photos from the series. The music is a blend of old and new, performed by some impressive artists.

Track listing - SIDE 1 - "With A Little Help From My Friends" Joe Cocker; "Baby I Need Your Loving" Was Not Was; "Drift Away" Judson Spence; "For What It's Worth" Buffalo Springfield; "Get Together" Indigo Girls; "In The Still of The Night" Debbie Gibson; "2Oth Century Fox" Escape Club; "Ruby Tuesday" Julian Lennon; "Teach Your Children" Crosby Stills & Nash; "Brown Eyed Girl" Van Morrison; "Will You Love Me Tommorrow" Carole King; "Come Home [Wonder Years]" Debbie Gibson;

In conclusion, I have to say I thought this was well worth the money. There is a lot of variety on the record and it will keep me happy for hours to come! Go and get your copy now!"

However, Simon the cynic says..."Anyone expecting a comprehensive selection of music from the series will be sorely disappointed by the album, whose title is thoroughly misleading. Of the 11 tracks, only 3 have been used in the show, Joe Cocker, Carole King and Buffalo Springfield. The remainder consists of an arbitrary selection of late 60s rock and pop, including two by Debbie Gibson, one of which seems to have been written especially.

Julian Lennon's track is a pleasant enough offering, as are the Indigo Girls, whilst the inclusion of "Brown Eyed Girl" is welcome. The highlight for me is probably Richie Haven's "Peace Train". This is billed as 'extra' but it is hard to see what it is extra to as it appears on both the CD and Cassette, and it is not available on vinyl. (Though it is not on Keiths version - Doug)

Pleasant as all this might be, the relation of most of it to TWY is, at best tenuous, at worst, non-existant. It appears as if Atlantic has lumped together any old songs they could find about boys'n'girls and stuck TWY label on as a selling point. It is also puzzling why re-interpretations have been used rather than the original songs, while the choice of artists makes even less sense; The Escape Club for heavens sake, and Debbie Gibson?

I would advise prospective buyers of this album to approach it with caution. A far better job could be done - in fact I've done it myself with selective use of old albums and a bit of judicious home taping."

(So there you go! Unfortunately, I've got 3 different catalogue #'s for the album so I'll try and sort something out for next time. Also should have said the album is called The Wonder Years - Music From the Award Winning Show & Its Era)

WHO'S WHO II


JASON HERVEY.. has acquired the kind of professional credentials most actors long for. Born and raised in LA, Jason appeared in his first commercial at the age of 4-1/2, after an actor friend of the family's insisted that Jason go see his agent.

He has since grown up, balancing a tight schedule that includes his acting career, school, work and an excellence in sports. He made his TV debut at 6 on "Sweepstakes", and appeared aged 7 in an award-winning Levi's ad. His other TV credits include "Trapper John, MD", "The Two of Us", "The Love Boat", "Taxi", "Alice", "Punky Brewster", "Simon & Simon", "Together We Stand", "A Year in the Life". He starred as a series regular on ABC's "Different Strokes", "Wildside", and "Fast Times at Ridgemont High". Among his TV movies are roles in "Little Spies", "Daddy, I'm Their Mommy Now" and Disney's "The Last Electric Knight".

In addition to the hit film (!!) "Back to School", Jason's feature film credits include "Pee-Wee's Big Adventure", "Back To The Future", "Police Academy 2" and "Meatballs 2".

Off-screen, he is a regular teenager and divides his time among academic studies, private acting classes and playing as much tennis as he can, regularly taking part in charity tournaments around the country. For seven years, he was a member of the American Youth Soccer Association. He is also a big wrestling fan. The younger of two brothers, Jason plans to eventually attend a film school.

Note - Jason has been the busiest of the younger WY actors and has many other creds to his name. Space prevents us from listing them all, though those above are the most important. I also read he actually manages wrestlers too!










OLIVIA D'ABO..was born a true child of the 60's. She is the second child and only daughter of Michael D'Abo, former lead singer with Manfred Mann. Her mother, Maggie London D'Abo was a top London model for 10 years and had feature roles in "A Hard Days Night" and "2001".

Olivia spent her first eight years in London, where she attended a French school. Her family then moved to Taos, New Mexico. They lived there for five years, "which was like my 60's" she says. She started getting involved with theatre, music and dance. "I was never the cheerleader type" she recalls, "and I was always around very creative people". She studied briefly at the London Ballet Theatre.

At 13, Olivia moved to LA and appeared in her first TV ad. Her 15th birthday was spent on the set of "Conan The Destroyer". Her other film credits include "A Dream to Believe", "Bullies", "Mission Kill", "Legend of Wolf Lodge" and the futuristic comedy "Spirit of '76". She has also participated in Robert Redford's acting workshops at the Sundance Institute.

Her numerous TV credits include roles in "Tales of the Weird and Unknown", "Growing Pains", "One Big Family", "Simon & Simon", "The Bronx Zoo", "Tour Of Duty" and the TV movies "Not My Kid" and "Crash Course".

Aside from acting, her other love is music. She spends a great deal of time writing lyrics, composing music, singing and playing the piano. She makes her home in suburban LA.




VIDEO COMPETITION

Those kind people at DD video gave us a copy of the new WY tape and now it's your chance to win it! And it couldn't be easier 'cos rather than set a question, everyone who writes between now and next time, and remembers to say the magic words "I'd like to win the video please!", get entered into the draw and stands a chance of winning. If you write twice you double your chances! Tell me how fab Woodstock is, or why you aren't re-newing your subs, anything. Get scribblin'....Oh, and as a second prize, someone will get 5 (yes, 5!) unused covers from said tape. The crowd gasps.

"Our Miss White" (Series 1 - Episode 8)

We see MLK's "Dream" speech, but Kevin is more interested in his teacher, who just happens to be putting on a play. Kevin is coerced into helping out in the role of Robert Kennedy. Paul is J. Edgar Hoover. Miss White is very pleased with Kevin's performance, but he is embarrassed when his Dad comes to pick him up. Jack is telling 'Diane' White about Kevin's early role as Winnie the Pooh - "So Jack, ready to go?!", shouts Kev, "I mean, Dad, Mr. Dad, Sir..."

Meanwhile, he is jealous of his dad, who is getting a bit more attention from Miss White than he is. Kevin tells him not to pick him up and he gets a lift from his teacher. She puts her hand on his knee but its only a dream. She knows what he is thinking and he finally realises he is only 12 after all.

It is the night of the play. Paul has a grey wig. Kevin gets stage fright but pulls through. The play is a success. Nice episode.

Guest Stars
Wendel Meldrum - Miss White
Shea Farrell - Steve
E'lon - The young MLK
Krista Murphy - Carla Healey
Matthew Kohut - Hoover Aide 1
Dustin Wride - Hoover Aide 2

Songs
"Just My Imagination" - The Temptations(?)
"Times They Are A-Changin'" - Bob Dylan

"Christmas" (S1 - Ep9)

The Arnolds fall in love with colour TV, but Jack isn't keen. Winnie gives Kev a Christmas present. Even the ritual of putting up the tree fails to ignite the festive spirit in his father.

Last minute shopping. Kevin is looking for perfume that smells like "Leaves...in the ocean...at night." He settles for a 'snowstorm' paper-weight. Xmas Eve is not much fun, so he goes to deliver Winnie's gift but the Cooper's have gone away for the holidays. The Arnolds go carol singing and it rains. Everyone laughs and a good time is had by all. Colour TV arrives two years later.

Guest Stars
Liz Torres - Mrs. Gambino
Tyde Kierney - TV salesman
Gary McGurk - Tree man
Mary Gregory - Woman
Michael Landes - Kirk McCray
Robina Suwol - Perfume lady

"Steady As She Goes" (S1 - Ep10)

We are introduced to the intricacies of teen-romance, even for Paul. Music class, and 'Yellow Bird' is being mauled. Paul wants to go skating so he can see Carla Healey. Kevin is not so keen, but gives in. At the rink, Winnie asks if he would like to skate with Becky Slater. He is so annoyed he agrees.

Kevin's romance becomes dinner-table chat and he soon realises the minus points of this dating thing. His heart is still with Winnie and he is using Becky to get back at her. However, she realises this and dumps him. He vows to forget about women and friends - "Kevin Arnold, Lone Wolf". He goes to clear the air with Becky and ends up walking her home.

Guest Stars
Crystal McKellar - Becky
Karin Woodward - Waitress
Melissa Clayton - Girl
Jason Miyashiro - Kid 2
William Lanteau - Mr. Frace
Robin Thicke - Boy
Jeremy Vecs - Kid in line
Michael Tricario - Kid

Songs - "Ooh Baby, Baby" - (?)
"Will You Love Me Tomorrow" - ?
"The Thrill Has Gone" - ?

(In "Christmas", Joni Mitchell's "The River" is featured).

ODDS AND ENDS

Some apologies...to our subscribers in the Republic of Ireland. I forgot all about you and thus Pirjo isn't our first overseas member! Amend the statement on pg.1 to "...our first subscriber from mainland Europe!"...I can't confirm or deny whether the WY book is freely available in this country as I've only had it on order for a week and haven't heard from the bookshop as yet. My advice is to go ahead and order it, after all this shouldn't cost you anything.

BACK ISSUES

Many of those who have only recently discovered us have enquired about the availability of the issues they missed. All previous editions have sold out, though beginning this issue, I'm giving those who missed out an opportunity to fill the gaps in their collection. The Woodstock finances don't allow me to get copies of them all done so this issue I've decided to print up a dose of #2. (There is a method to my madness, so please bear with me!) This issue is minus a photograph which I no longer have and only amounts to 4 pages as a result. However it does include reviews of 'The Wizard' and a few of Fred's other TV appearances. Cost is 50p and an 18p (or 24p) stamp. This includes price of an envelope. I will accept cash, but please make an effort to disguise it. Otherwise make monies payable to D. Baptie. I apologise for the cost but because I am only getting a limited number done, costs are not the same as for a full-run edition. Depending on the response, I'll try and get #'s 3 & 4 done for next time.

FOURTH SERIES - From "Day One" to "Private Butthead"

I enthused last issue about the brilliant episode "The Lake", which still, in my opinion anyway, stands as one of the finest WY stories yet told. I also had no inkling this was a normal length series either, and inevitably the standard varies from episode to episode as it has done previously. Perhaps it is because there have now been so many episodes it's possible to see some of the show's flaws more easily. It is prone to sentimentality (though to be fair, for many this seems to be the appeal) and predictability ("Maybe it was then that I learned something"...), yet I still never feel like switching off. The quality of the acting recently has been close to stunning, Dan Lauria and Jason Hervey especially and though I might get some stick for this, episodes like "Frank & Denise", where Kevin was secondary to the plot, was, for me at least, refreshing. As my mate Dr. Pestilencedeff Artphag rightly pointed out, there have been a distinct lack of straight-up comedy episodes, and a few stories that don't really tell us much, "Kodachrome" springs to mind, but it's still the best prog on the box innit? (Unbiased crit in the area.)

As long as episodes like "Triangle", "Dining Out" and "Private Butthead" are made, I'll keep tuning in. In the latter episode, though the conclusion was telegraphed quite early on, it succeeded as a whole. One particular scene captured the whole spirit of the Wonder Years - Jack tries to prevent Wayne from leaving for his army medical, the two face up to each other yet the viewers gaze is drawn to something over Wayne's left shoulder - it is a sticker with a simple message - "Peace brother..."

That said, a few things to pick up on - (1) Quite a few of you are missing Winnie, (2) The move to the new school hasn't been entirely satisfactory - I'm not very keen on some of the new characters who seem to be deliberately wacky at the expense of some of the likeability that, for example, Doug Porter had. (3) What's happened to the pre-credit sequences that showed earlier in the series? I can only guess that C4 has decided they weren't worth showing, but it begs the question whether they've been available for all the previous series. Finally, no I don't know what that strange 'Q' symbol is at the title credit...

(The remaining episodes will be discussed next time.)

THE WOODSTOCK LETTERS SECTION Where you get your say...

Things have been decidedly quiet on the mail front lately so my apologies in advance if some of the same names as last time crop up. However, this issue's competition should persuade a few more people to drop a line. My review of the first episode in the current series prompted these comments from James Woolley from Ripley...

"(The Lake)...was an excellent episode, probably one of the finest episodes so far, but the next one where Kevin spends a day at his new school was pretty much scraping the barrel - the part where they all ripped the pages from their folders was absolutely cringeworthy and nothing but a 'Dead Poet's Society' rip-off at that!"

In another more recent letter (see it's easy when you try!) James also bemoans the fact that we haven't seen or heard anything more about Cara, the girl Kevin met in the first episode but I think that was the whole point - it was a holiday romance that was doomed from the start (I don't believe I wrote that!) Moving swiftly on I detect a faint whiff of sentimentality upon the air, it seems that quite a few of you lot really like the episodes I detest the most! Shaun Gallagher, who hails from County Mayo in Eire feels that...

"...any relationship (between Kevin and Winnie or someone else - Douglas) would enhance the series as a whole. I suppose the writers may be trying to reflect the brevity of teenage relationships, but girlfriends so far have been secondary to the story and the character of Kevin has been a little smug. Some insecurity would be nice." Unfortunately, the normally sane John Elliot from Newbury tells me that neither he nor Mrs. Elliot will be happy unless...

"...the whole series ends with Winnie and Kevin being married. (Oh dear, am I for real??)

Well you said it John, of course it's the Elliot children we worry about. What will they turn out like with parents like that? Unlike James, John enjoyed the second episode and "Triangle", a view shared by Irene Porter who apparently has first-hand experience of such a situation. Irene also caught sight of a young Jason Hervey on 'Diff'rent Strokes'...

"...wearing (Kevin could blackmail him for life) a Madonna outfit. Turned out it was an initiation for a sorority."

Neither Irene or I were sure if that's how you spell it but I guess you know what it is! For next time, why not drown me in waves of mail, scented notes, pink envelopes, giant parcels, in fact any old scribbles! Is TWY format getting tired? Is it better than ever? Does Paul look better with or without his glasses? Should the show quit while it's still on the up? Tell the world by dropping a line to the usual address...

PEN-PALS

I am a decent soul and I listen to people's requests. So here's your opportunity to communicate with folks who you might have something in common with. Just jot down a few details about yourself, your other interests, whatever, and next issue I'll put them in the new or pen-pal section! lt's not my fault if some nutter writes or you get no replies whatsoever...

FILM REVIEWS

STAKEOUT (198?) With Richard Dreyfuss, Emilio Estevez, Dan Lauria. There is a part of me that believes if you are going to do 'cop' movies you might as well go completely over the top - i.e., Die Hard or Lethal Weapon. To do anything less is a waste of time. 'Stakeout' is low-budget but wasn't as bad as I'd expected and kept me watching. Lauria has quite a lame role as a jovial policeman, playing off Dreyfuss in the main. It struck me that he deserves to get a lead role, perhaps as one half of 'buddy' team; the cynical nut teamed up with a rookie or.......(that's all. Like several times before, the last line is missing...Daniel G.)

A young Olivia D'Abo




























NEWSLETTER 7 - August 1992

Sure. We're late, but these things happen. House hunting, equipment breakdowns, small American towns...It's such a drain sometimes. This issue has been a little difficult to bring together. I hope it's still OK. The episode reviews are missing this time 'cos I couldn't force myself to watch them again. I'm toying with the idea of putting out little booklets for each series, especially since the book seems to be unavailable in the UK (I'm gonna see about importing some copies - more details next time...), we'll see what happens. You'll need this address - Keith Rogers, 57 Fircroft Close, Tilehurst, Reading, RG3 6LJ. Finally, for those still unaware, Woodstock Productions has already put out two issues of a TWIN PEAKS newsletter, FEBRUARY 24, which - surprise, surprise - bears a striking resemblance to this mighty organ. Anyone interested should drop a line. This issue is dedicated to Stuart who sends me birthday presents and dubious letters. Keep on rockin' in the free world.....kicking out the jams - Buffalo Tom 'Let Me Come Over', Dunderfunk 'Brick Cat' EP, Pavement 'Trigger Cut', Urge Overkill 'The Supersonic Sonic Storybook' and Hey! Wasn't Batman better than you expected?

THE WONDER YEARS NEWS

Jeez Louise. I seem to say this every issue, but it genuinely is quiet this time around. C4 is repeating a very limited number of episodes from the third series most probably because a fifth one, at the end of the year, seems very likely. Thus there wouldn't have been time to fit a complete repeat run in before the new series was ready to roll...The 'Q' symbol at the beginning of the new episodes, is I feel, (and suggested by various readers) a subtitling symbol rather than one for stereo sound as others said, it's a speech balloon y'see...Trivia? You want it? You got it. The scene? Ollie Stone's splendid 'JFK', the courtroom sequence near the end - Mr. Costner is just entering, sitting behind him a couple of rows, and on-screen for oh, two seconds is Lisa Gerber (Cara)(Kyle's note - Lisa specifically denied this...). Woodstock - a trainspotters paradise...Some spare cash? Then send off for a copy of DARK STAR #8, a semi-prozine which leans towards the sci-fi/fantasy side of things. This particular issue has a nice little article about 'The Princess Bride' and the mini-cult which has apparently grown up around it. £2.OO from Rob Dyer, 64 Arthur Street, Gravesend, Kent DAll OPR. #9 is even better. Remember to say we sent you..."Heartbreak and Burgers" recently won the 1992 Rogers Humanism Award...Dan Lauria popped up on the Joan Rivers show on the Lifestyle channel. He mentioned he was working in a play, 'Other People's Money' off-Broadway. Dan is currently dating a young lady called Leanna Moore, "who isn't an actress...but looks like one". He also befriends fatherless children through the 'Big Brother' project. This is much healthier than it sounds, I promise. Olivia D'Abo and Julian Lennon? All over apparently, and they made such a happy couple, did they not? Olivia also recently popped up in a TV movie, "Midnights Child", a tale of spooks, the supernatural and the netherworld. Crystal McKellar appeared in........(Sorry, the last line of this page is missing...Daniel Görlich)

Woodstock Letters

Plenty views and opinions this issue. Keep 'em coming as the more letters I get, the more I feel like I'm doing something worthwhile. The review last time of the soundtrack album brought these comments from Jason Richmond..."I do like the tape, especially 'Peace Train' and 'Ruby Tuesday' but feel conned that I bought it because of the WY title. Putting the logo on it seemed a good way of selling it, but the last thing it does is remind me of the show."

Richard Fairclough had some comments on the recent series..."Series 4 has had far more good points than bad, the bad being Kevin's new friends who are far too 'cartoony'. The show isn't getting tired and is showing a new maturity, my only criticism would be about the cut in the amount of music used."

As did Irene Porter..."This series is showing no signs of writer's fatigue and is revealing a more insecure Kevin who is far from being Mr. Perfect. Paul is emerging as the stronger of the two buddies now and maturing faster, ready to take on responsibility while Kevin doesn't know what he wants at all." Irene also asks just "how long are the 'wonder' years?"

And Julian Combes put in his ha'pennies worth..."All in all, the last series has been as good as the others, with the outstanding episodes being, in no particular order, "Back to the Lake", "Broken Hearts and Burgers" and "Double Double Date". "Broken Hearts..." really showed the side of Kevin's personality which lets us know that no matter how many other girls he has "flings" with, Winnie will always be his first love."

And that, ladies and gentlemen, was exactly why I hated it, but HEY! as if anyone pays the slightest attention to anything I think. My opinions on the newest series are somewhere else.

PEN-PALS

Keith Waters expresses an interest in corresponding with MEG RYAN, but that notwithstanding would probably like to hear from anyone interested in films in general, especially horror, fantasy and sci-fi, and the STAR WARS series in particular. - 6 Wakefield Avenue, Billericay, Essex CM12 9DN. (And if Meg Ryan e. wants to write, I'm sure she'd be happy to hear from you. Alternatively, sell him your spare Meg pix, videos, clippings etc.)

The cardinal sin. Misplacing letters. However, I have remembered that our mate Pirjo would like to receive mail from any other WY fans. She has a soft spot for our man Fred, but also enjoys athletics and if I remember correctly, reading. (No, you're wrong, she likes scuba-diving.)

WHO'S WHO 3

Josh Saviano...became an actor on impulse. One day, from his home in northern New Jersey, he and his mother took a neighbourhood actor-friend to Manhattan to see his manager. Josh asked if he could see the manager too, a request that was granted. He gave a reading, and a career was born. He went to many auditions before winning his first part at the age of six. His TV debut came on a clay-animated (?) CBS special, "My Friend Liberty" celebrating the centennial of the Statue of Liberty. He did a takeoff as a young Steven Spielberg in the unreleased feature film "That's Adequate", and an originally substantial role in Woody Allen's "Radio Days" was heavily cut, leaving him all but invisible.

Broadway was next, featuring in "The Nerd" with Mark Hamill, which opened in March 1987. Another feature, "The Wrong Guys" led to his role in TWY, his first starring TV role. His other credits include "Discovery", an episode of "The Ray Bradbury Theatre" and the TV movie "Lights Out, a.k.a. Camp Cucamonga."

Josh lives at home with his father, Ralph, a financial consultant, and his mother Jane, a speech pathologist. He has two older half-brothers and a half-sister. He loves playing soccer, baseball and tennis, and likes travel and skiing. He plans to attend an Ivy League college.

Danica McKellar...was born and raised in La Jolla, California. She and her sister Crystal (who plays Becky Slater) got their first taste of acting at their mother's dance studio. The family moved to LA in 1982 and family friends began encouraging Danica to consider acting. She enrolled in the children's acting programme at the world famous Lee Strasberg Institute. Her first part in a commercial came at the age of nine, and after several more, her TV debut came a guest role in an episode of "The Twilight Zone". Danica was invited back for another episode.

Her portrayal of Winnie is her first starring role in a TV series. Singer Debbie Gibson invited Danica to take a cameo appearance in one of her videos, "No More Rhyme" during the summer of 1989. She too appeared in "Lights Out..." and "Wide World of Kids".

Danica has won awards for her proficiency in maths and French, though she says her favourite subject is science. She enjoys skiing, swimming, surfing and has taken synchronized swimming lessons. Danica collects stuffed Garfield toys and enjoys 'green-fingered' pursuits even going so far as to having designed a garden and walkway for the McKellar household. She shares her home with her mother, sister and two cats, Sabrina and Puffers.

Daniel Stern...was raised in Bethesda, Maryland. His father was a social worker whilst mother had a career in education. He became involved in acting at High School, taking lessons and starring in various productions. After graduating, he took courses at Catholic university in Washington DC.

Daniel moved to New York to pursue his career further and soon won roles in off-Broadway productions. During 1977, he auditioned for a part in 'The Passing Game' at New York's American Place Theatre, but did not get the part. However, the play's director, Peter Yates, remembered Stern, and gave him a role in the cult film, "Breaking Away". Since then, he has amassed an impressive list of credits, not least his excellent narrations for TWY. It is the big screen though which has kept him busiest. Some of the better known titles in which he has appeared include - Blue Thunder (1983), Hannah and Her Sisters (1986), DOA (1988), Little Monsters (1989) [with Fred Savage], Home Alone (1990), My Blue Heaven (1990), and City Slickers (1991).

Daniel is married and has three children. He enjoys playing the guitar and composing music.

FOURTH SERIES - From "Of Mastadons..."

So. What to say? This issue's letters page gave some indication as to others' views on this series, so now it's up to me as unelected authority on said prog to deliver my verdict. As with all the series so far, the quality varied from episode to episode and the latter half of this one was no different, but I'd pick out the two Karen and Michael episodes as being the most worthy of attention. On reflection, I feel the series should have ended with "The Wedding", the Arnold family, far from drawing together as one would expect at such an occasion, actually falls apart with the newlyweds 'announcing' their re-location to Alaska, yet more importantly the wonder years end - Karen was really the only symbol of the 'love' generation (perhaps as a comment on how un-wonderful the late 60's/early 70's really were) yet she gives in to something as traditional, though in the event, unorthodox, as marriage. Indeed, the episode had the air of finality about it, but no, there were, apparently more tales to be told.

'Return to the Lake' was a great disappointment in some ways - the first half seemed wholly irrelevant and when Kevin catches up with Cara, it was fairly obvious what the outcome was likely to be. To be honest, he deserved to be kicked back and it was a shame that Cara had, like Karen, apparently given in to what was expected of her. And then, heaven help me, we had to sit through 'Heartbreak and Burgers'.

A surprising amount of letters arrive at the HQ proclaiming a heartfelt desire for Kev and Winnie to be a 'thing' for ever and ever etc., and I understand why people should want this to be so, but, as I've hinted (!) before, I haven't any time for such events. (1) It's unrealistic - Sure, some teen romances last, but as Kev has shown, he likes the ladies too much. They shack up, have a coupla kids, then Kev-bo goes off with some pretty young thing, returning six months later, with pleas of eternal love... (2) It's dull. Like, there're so many dramatic possibilities in a content relationship. See the happy couple at the movies/mall/beach etc. Yawn. For it to be interesting, they have to split up again, in the next series and then get back together again at the end. If nothing else, this makes both of them look plain stupid. (3) It panders to audience expectation - "Carnal Knowledge" showed that the writers can bring a surprise in there if they want - with splendid results - HA! It's geeky Paul and not handsome Kevin who hits the proverbial home run first, courtesy of an accomodating young lady, leaving Kev bewildered and proving to be a downright pain in the ass. I understand why 'Broken Hearts..' was made. Obviously, the creators weren't sure if they were going to get another series, so it was best to leave Kevin and Winnie together to keep everyone happy. Except me. But then again, I'm just a useless old cynic with a gigantic chip on his shoulder and hates the world in the bargain...

I like TWY. It's pretty much plain old entertainment, nothing so very deep and meaningful in there I reckon. Perhaps that's the problem? I think we need to stand back a little bit and really think about what direction TWY, and Woodstock, have to go in from now on........ (There seems to be a short comment after this last line, but it wasn't readable on my copy...Daniel G.)

MUSIC FROM THE WONDER YEARS - A Slight Return (Part 1)

Rock-and-Roll owes its existence to the convergence of two very different American musical traditions. The roots music of white America stems from a largely European heritage, particularly from Ireland, whose influence can be heard across contemporary styles of country and folk. White America's music, from bluegrass to Hollywood show tunes, from Hank Williams to Bing Crosby, was the voice of the nation throughout the first half of the twentieth century. The record companies who owned the stars were themselves owned by the broadcasting companies which set the cultural standards. Black Americans, on the other hand, had their own, largely separate, cultural and musical identity. 'Race' music, as it was known, was generally frowned upon as lewd and subversive by the powerful arbiters of the nation's taste. And yet, 'rhythm and blues', as it was later called, was hugely popular with its black audience, and covered a multitude of instrumental and singing styles, mostly more emotionally expressive than those employed by the socially acceptable white crooners. Only in the Fifties, when white musicians began to plunder their nation's musical heritage in the search for a new style, did black music cross the divide by influencing the new generation of rock'n'roll artists and gaining interest in its own right, eventually re-inventing itself along the way. Many of the black artists from these classic years feature heavily throughout 'The Wonder Years'.

One of the first black singers to gain acceptance with a white audience was Nat 'King' Cole, a jazz pianist whose singing talents came to the fore during the 1940's. Cole's richly warm crooning style was as comfortable as an old jersey, but while winning him favour with white followers, it alienated him from a black audience used to a more ethnic style. Not all whites found Cole to their taste, however. He was attacked on stage in 1956 by members of a pressure group determined to enforce a boycott of black singers. Yet Cole's singing style was undeniably attractive. Relaxed and understated, it possessed greater sincerity and feeling than the often rather sardonic style of white crooners like Crosby and Como. Several of his songs feature in 'The Wonder Years'. One of the earliest, 'For Sentimental Reasons' (1946), provides the closing music in 'Angel', a strong episode from the first series. 'Unforgettable', now something of a signature tune, appears in 'Cocoa And Sympathy', while 'When I Fall In Love' is used in the closing scenes of another strong story from the first series, 'Pottery Will Get You Nowhere'. EMI recently issued a compilation of 'The Unforgettable Nat King Cole', a digitally re-mastered selection of his Sixties re-recordings of original songs. If you prefer the snap, crackle and pop of the genuine article, however, 'Unforgettable', on Capitol, presents many of the best songs in glorious mono.

Amongst the early black vocal groups crossing over into a rock'n'roll style were The Platters, a doo-wop quartet who specialised initially in teen-ballads like 'Only You' and 'The Great Pretender'. One of their best songs was a 1958 version of Jerome Kern's 'Smoke Gets In Your Eyes'. It featured the gospel inspired vocals of lead singer Tony Williams, and has appeared twice in TWY - briefly in 'The Accident', and playing in the background at the Cooper's barbeque in 'How I'm Spending My Summer Vacation'.

A more traditional side of R'n'B which continued alongside the crossover styles was blues, of which one of the greatest exponents was the Chicago bar-blues singer Muddy Waters. Muddy's growling, shouted vocals were the exact antithesis of the crooning doo-wop style of teen groups like the Platters. Two of his best-known songs appear in TWY. 'Hoochie Coochie Man' (1954) can be heard on the radio in 'Walk Out', while 'Mannish Boy' (1955) struts and preens in 'The Lake' as Kevin sees Cara for the first time. Unlike many of his contemporary bluesmen who found their markets disappearing towards the end of the Fiftles as R'n'B developed a more soulful style, Muddy Waters continued to sell albums thanks to the efforts of Chess Records who marketed him amongst a white audience.

In the early Sixties one record label, Motown, more than any other, represented the notion of a particular style of rhythm and blues, based historically on a tradition of gospel singing. The Detroit Sound of Berry Gordy's label achieved a remarkable run of success with the artists it signed, each maintaining an individual style while being recognizable as part of an overall sound. In Smokey........ (another last line missing... Daniel Görlich.)

.......writer of many of the classic songs of the period, not just for his own group, The Miracles, but also for other acts signed to the label. A number of Smokey's songs are featured in TWY. 'Ooh Baby Baby' can be heard in the background in 'Steady As She Goes', while 'The Tracks Of My Tears' is used in 'Walk Out'. 'Tears Of A Clown' sold well over a million and was the Miracles' most successful hit reaching number one in both the US and Britain in 1967. It can be heard playing at the school dance In 'Dance With Me', and in a later episode, 'The Accident'. Smokey Robinson also wrote 'My Girl', a song used as Kevin and Winnie's theme in a number of episodes including 'Nemesis' and 'Moving'. 'My Girl' was recorded by the Temptations in a vocally-assured call-and-response harmony style. The song sold over a million copies and reached the US number one spot - the first by a Motown artist to do so. Singer David Ruffin left the group in 1968 to pursue a solo career. In 1971 The Temptations with Eddie Kendricks on lead vocals issued 'Just My Imagination', a slow ballad sung in light harmony. Once again it topped the US charts. It is featured in TWY in an episode called 'Our Miss White', an excellent and sensitively written story in which Kevin develops a crush on his English teacher.

Also signed to Motown, Marvin Gaye possessed a songwriting talent of some significance. Although his early material was heavily influenced by gospel, he gradually moved towards a more sophisticated soulful sound, culminating in 1968's 'I Heard lt Through The Grapevine', Motown's biggest selling hit in the company's first 20 years. In 1967 Gaye had commenced a singing partnership with Tammi Terrell which produced 'You're All I Need To Get By' in 1968, a song which appears in 'St. Valentine's Day Massacre'. Tammi Terrell was diagnosed as having a brain tumour in 1968 and died two years later. Gaye himself, one of many soul singers to meet an untimely end, was shot in 1984 during an argument with his father.

At the height of the Motown phenomenon, the songwriting team of Eddie Holland, Lamont Dozier and Brian Holland produced a string of hits for artists signed to the label, most notably The Four Tops and Diana Ross & The Supremes. These songs were distinctive in their use of strong rhythm and melodies, and adventurous in the use of full string arrangements, particularly in groundbreaking songs like 'Reach Out' and 'Bernadette' by The Four Tops. Diana Ross had a limited vocal range, but the Supremes were marketed as sophisticated and glamourous, a visual image which had as much to do with their success as the material itself. A string of Holland-Dozier-Holland penned songs brought the group number-one status throughout the mid-sixties - 'Stop In The Name Of Love', 'My World Is Empty Wlthout You', 'Reflections', all memorable for their strong melodic hooks. The Supremes twelfth and final number one hit, 'Someday We'll Be Together' was their last single before Diana Ross left for a solo career. It features in an episode of the WY called 'Just Between You And Me...' from the first series. Early material by Diana Ross and The Supremes is surprisingly difficult to get hold of in the UK, though a useful collection of their very best is '20 Golden Greats' issued by Motown a few years back.
- Simon Brickwood.

THE WOODSTOCK COMPETITION BIT

It's that time again. That time when you can win some things that you're not really sure that you really need. This time, you can walk away with a bundle of WY postcards and photographs - some of which are doubles - so I'm not exactly sure what it is you're going to do with them.

All you have to do this time is answer this simple question - Where does Jack Arnold work? Easy.

Last times' lucky people were Chris from Hants, who won the video and (a round of applause please...) for Paul from Staffs who gets some unused sleeves from said video. Once again, just what is he going to do with them?

THE WONDER YEARS JIGSAW PUZZLES

Someone in the States recently sent me a couple of Wonder Years jigsaw puzzles. The puzzles are produced by a company founded in 1923, Rose Art Industries Inc., 3200 South Street, Lafayette, IN 47904-3100. I have approached the company direct to enquire about the range and cost of their products. I will let Woodstock members know the outcome in due course.

The puzzles I received are colourful and of a high quality. Each one has 300 fully interlocking pieces and comes in a large, factory sealed box, making sure that last piece doesn't escape! When complete, the puzzles measure 48.1cm x 67.95cm.

The first one has the familiar WY heading at the top, in the usual yellow, pink and blue colours. Directly below is a large photograph of the Arnold family washing the family car in the driveway. Wayne is leaning over the hood, pouring a bucket of water over Kevin, who is displaying some discomfort. The rest of the family looks on, smiling. At the bottom of the puzzle is a small montage of five photographs in the form of a movie strip, all taken from the first season.

The other jigsaw is of the same layout design. The main photograph is of the Arnolds and Paul, gathered round the kitchen table. Jack and Norma are at the back, Kevin is in the centre with his arms around Karen and Wayne who are seated at the table. Paul is standing to the left behind Karen. The movie strip montage contains photographs from the second season.
- Keith Rogers.

[As some of you will know, Keith has in the past been able to provide WY fans with a variety of items of memorabilia which have been hard to find in this country. He wrote recently to let me know that he doesn't currently have any items for sale, so it's for the best if you save your SAE's for a time. However, the good news is that Keith is currently busy putting together a booklet or booklets covering the film career of our fave mop-top, Fred Savage. More details as soon as we get them.

In the meantime, Keith is kindly offering Woodstock readers free episode guides for the following TV programmes, providing that you send a large SAE and a 24p stamp for each list you would like - Star Trek, The Invaders, Lost in Space, Time Tunnel, Land of the Giants or Voyage to the Bottow of the Sea. He's also put together a giant fan-club listing, detailing what looks like over 500 different organisations and publications for TV and film stars, etc. Again, SAE and stamp please. If anyone has an Amiga computer, £1.00 will get you a disk with all the above on.

Keith does a lot of work for Woodstock and without him we'd be a much duller read. Thanks Keith!]

The ARNOLD residence - the FINAL chapter!

Lots (and I mean that!) of people have written in with their theories as to where TWY is based. We've already devoted two short articles on this subject, but I thought it was about time we wrapped the whole thing up.

A popular theory with eagle-eyed viewers is based on the episode "Wayne On Wheels", where Wayne gets his driving licence. When the licence arrives the envelope is addressed to a location in Culver City, which is a suburb of Los Angeles. Persuasive as this may be, I personally look on this as being a mistake by the props department because Culver City is where the bulk of the WY is FILMED, but not necessarily set. I thought more clues might be provided in "The Lake" and its sequel "Return..." but there was little to be gleaned here except that the Arnolds are within a days' drive of a lake! It's then tempting to point to the East coast and the Great Lakes, but there are lakes meant to be set anywhere except "Anywhere", USA which enables more people to identify with the show and the experiences of the characters.

I officially pronounce this correspondence closed.

THE WONDER YEARS - Finland

It's always interesting to discover how programmes fare in other countries, especially in those where a different language is spoken. I know that TWY is beamed into German homes via satellite with the voices being dubbed into the native tongue. In Finland however, the show goes out with subtitles, but not only that, it has been renamed as "Kesa '69" which translates as "The Summer Of '69"! You have to wonder if they'll end up showing "The Summer Of '72"? Finnish TV is apparently quite a way behind the US/UK when it comes to the number of episodes shown and this has been compounded by their decision not to show more this summer. Apparently, the letters-pages of magazines have been full of complaints!

The above information came from our favourite Finn, Pirjo who has also translated the following Jason Hervey interview which was in an Issue of "Katso!" last year. (Interview by Eirik Knutzen, translated by Pirjo Pykko, tidied up by me...)

Jason Hervey knows it all! "I find it easy to act as stupid as Wayne!" For millions of viewers in America, Jason Hervey and Wayne Arnold are one and the same but they're wrong! In the series, Wayne seems to enjoy humiliating his little brother, but Jason insists that he is a sensitive person who only acts dumb!

"Wayne is like my naughty side. My older brother Scott and about half a dozen of my friends, especially one of them, Byron, used to tease me in front of my family and friends but I don't mind. Our relationship has always been like that."

Jason grants that his sense of humour is a bit twisted, but those who know him seem to enjoy it.

He is worried however, about a rumour that says that he and Fred Savage don't get along. He recalls a time he travelled for five hours from East to West coast just to arrive in time for Fred's party.

"The newspaper stories are a joke. Fred's a nice guy and a good friend. We're real close."

Jason was born in Los Angeles and has been in TV since he was four years old. For Finns, his face might be most familiar from films like "Back to School", "Back to the Future" and "Police Academy 2". At the moment, Jason isn't interested in studying at university.

(I couldn't make this bit make sense so I just left it! - D.) "Right now, I can't believe that I would go to school to learn more than I now know and can. That may sound crazy, when I claim to know everything but that feel in my age. Maybe I some day understand that the thing isn't so, but it'll happen if it'll happen."

Jason's girlfriend is Dawn Bailey who is 21. They both live with their own families but try to spend all their free-time together. They enjoy going dancing, out for a meal and cycling. Jason says Dawn is a beautiful woman, an ex-bikini pattern (Er...?..She's an ex-model?..-D.), but is currently a secretary.



December 1992

What goes on?

In the months since the last issue a certain state of affairs has become apparent, one which I've recently become more and more aware of. Since I started putting the newsletters out, people have never been particularly keen on contributing stuff which has meant that I've had to carry most of the workload (though there are a few honourable exceptions). I always grudged this a bit, but never really put me off continuing. That said, I now think the reason people don't even write is because there isn't so very much to comment on.

The cast of The Wonder Years is small and not particularly busy it seems. The new issue of the newsletter, due now is just not worth putting out because there is no news! Sure, there's a new series in the new year and I think I had a few snippets of information, but otherwise that's it. There is not enough new and relevant material to justify a newsletter. It must be easier to put out a Madonna fanzine right?

Therefore, I need a little time to reconsider Woodstock's future. One idea I had was for a less-regular publication, maybe twice- or thrice-a-year, but to comnpensate for this, we'd increase the size and turn it into a more magazine style or format. If that doesn't work, I don't know where we stand. One problem with this idea is that the gap between issues might be so long that what interest there is might fade away. As it is, the readership isn't large or vibrant enough to be economically sensible, but I'm prepared to give it a little longer.

Money-wise, I haven't thought about how it's going to work, but no-one should feel horribly ripped off. If your subscription still has two issues to run, you may get one larger publication instead and so on. When it comes to re-subscribing it might work out cheaper than current rates. If the worst happens and Woodstock has to close, refunds will be sent out in one form or another.

Most importantly, I'd like to hear your views and opinions. Have you got any better ideas? Anyway, I'm sorry about the delay, something will pop through your letterbox eventually. Apologies especially to those new subscribers and to those who have just re-subscribed. NOTE! This does not count as a newsletter and your subscription will not be debited by one.

Best wishes for now, hope you enjoy your holidays, Douglas.

NEWS... New series in the New Year, probably starting in January. The cast recently celebrated the show's l00th episode...Alley Mills is getting married.. Daniel Stern reprises his role as the hapless bad guy alongside Joe Pesci in HOME ALONE 2, no doubt a box-office hit as I write....A new series to watch for is EERIE, INDIANA which I think is set to show in the UK in the New Year. Its a bit like a TWIN PEAKS for the whole family with hints of the WY. The hero's sister is played by the same actress who starred in TWY as Madeleine. Hubba hubba. The one episode I've seen was pretty good...A new address for (I'm sorry, the rest is missing... Daniel Görlich.)



Vol 2 #1, 1993

We're back. Apologies seem slightly pointless, but I did intend to get the show back on the road slightly sooner than has turned out. Nevertheless, it feels pretty good to be on the move once more.

In the past few months as I've been slowly getting this new issue together, I still haven't been able to resolve the problems that were moaned about last time, so have decided to, by and large, ignore them and battle on pretending nothing's the matter. That said, I'll still gratefully receive any contributions sent in. Quite a few people suggested a 'Favourite Episode' feature, so if anyone wants to scribble something on that subject, get going: We might also print the occasional piece on 'the wonder years' themselves, looking at the time period that the series is set in, and putting the show in some sort of context. Basically, if you feel you can do anything to help Woodstock, then please do.

As to this issue, well, you'll notice we're a different size for a start. The small booklet format poses its own problems, so if things look a bit untidy in places, put that down to the fact that I've never attempted this sort of thing before. The hardest thing has just been getting this particular issue out. It's very easy to get out of the swing of things. Now that a new issue is out, we should be able to get some momentum going, and get back onto some sort of regular schedule. There will definitely be another issue in the New Year, and new issues should appear every 3-4 months after that. Now that TWY has ended, it remains to be seen how much material we can milk from it, but I have enough ideas to keep us ticking over for a while yet. However, as I've hinted before, if I keep having to carry all the workload, then I'll just throw in the towel. I have other things that I can devote my time to, but preferably, Woodstock should be a viable project for some years to come.

Just before we wrap up, other readers suggested Woodstock should cover other 'cult' TV programmes and shows like CHEERS and ROSEANNE, whilst I'll have to let these ideas pass, it sounds like a great idea for anyone interesting in dabbling in the small press circuit. Since the demise of IDOLS magazine, the UK has lacked a general title covering a wide variety of special-interest TV. Fanzines and clubs are either too specialised (ie Horror or sci-fi 'zines, Dr. Who Societies etc) and lots of shows probably don't justify a magazine to themselves (Would you buy a HAPPY DAYS mag?). That said, I think there would be lots of people interested in buying, and writing for, a general mag with articles, reviews and news about popular shows like afore mentioned ROSEANNE and other US comedies and also favourites from the past like all those great cop shows from the 70's (KOJAK, STARSKY & HUTCH, COLUMBO) and comedies like the still awesome DAD'S ARMY, STEPTOE & SON and FAWLTY TOWERS. Someone should do it, so if anyone needs some tips as how to get started, I'll be more than willing to give some tips and hints as to the best way to go about things.

Anyway, I look forward to hearing from some of you soon. Best wishes 'til next time.

News

Obviously, since the last Woodstock, the most important event has been the screening of the final series of the The Wonder Years. Thankfully, standards were kept high and there were some superb episodes, but theres a full rundown elsewhere in this issue. As to the future, well here's what Fred Savage had to say - "Technically, the series could have gone on forever. We could have followed Kevin through college, marriage, kids...but that would have been too much!" As he always promised, it looks likely Fred will drop out of acting for a few years to go to college. "I may take four years off, but acting's something I'd like to continue". The other news concerning Fred was his supposed involvement in a 'sex-scandal' April/May-ish. Rather than repeat gossip, there's a reprint of a newspaper article to let you judge for yourself. I have asked someone in the USA to let me know the outcome of the case, but haven't heard anything yet. Fred was also a guest-announcer at the 19th Annual People's Awards in early March.... Danica McKellar can be seen in "Sidekicks" - a recent Chuck Norris film, so you can guess what that's like, whilst she also popped up at the launch of a Captain Planet episode which dealt with AIDS. I also picked up an address for her - c/o Savage Agency, 6212 Banner Ave. L.A, CA 90038, USA. Hopefully you'll have some success with that....Dan Lauria guested on an episode of "Hunter" whilst Alley Mills appeared on the Joan Rivers Show talking about a recent theatre project. (Note - I've read they're making "Stakeout 2", wonder if they'll reprise Lauria's role?)....The chances of any new WY memorabilia coming out is next to non-existant, but there was word of a second volume of Edward Gross' WY book, covering all the episodes which screened after the initial run. Whilst I've still to see a copy of the first book, I'll see what I can do about the new one if it ever appears....Also, I recently received a letter from a Jules Dean, 4354 Laurel Cyn. Blvd., #254, Studio City, CA 91604, USA. You can also call him on (whatever the code for the US is) plus 818-508-1273. Thing is, he's selling some original clothing from TWY as worn by the cast on the series. Obviously, you can never be sure, but I have no reason to believe the offer is anything but genuine....



Caption: Some of the cast at the party celebrating the show's 100th episode.
Someone who suspiciously looks like Oliver Reed lurks in the background.

.....Some of the items up for grabs include Kevin's pyjama's, his jeans, a similar lot but cut-off as used in recent episodes, some baseball shirts, Winnie's bathing costume (!) and a couple of cheerleading outfit's (I think these might be her hockey gear). Prices might sound expensive - i.e., one of Fred's baseball shirts is $75 (roughly £50) plus Air Mail, but when you think that an ordinary shirt from a sports shop might cost £35 and this is a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to possess a piece of history...Man, I wish I was a productive member of society sometimes! Winnie's blue sweater is only $45, go on, why not? Like I say, you might never get the chance again. Drop the guy a line at least!

Future issues...

When people wrote after the last 'newsletter', quite a few said that the news section wasn't really that important to them. This quite surprised me, because I like to keep up with events and actors and stuff that I like, but then not everyone is the same. What is dear now though, is that news items are likely to become very scarce now that the series has ended and even more so if Fred goes to college. Therefore, its even more important that readers of Woodstock send in ANY little snippets of info that you pick up on. A couple of you have incredible memories and write in with lists of TV appearances by actors and actresses who might only have been on the WY in one scene! I don't think we need to get that obsessive, but such diligence can only be a good thing. If we ever get some proper American WY contacts I'm sure that would help no end.

MUSIC

As well as all the use of Pop music in THE WONDER YEARS soundtrack, the original music of Snuffy Walden added that extra something to proceedings. The soundtrack album that came out for the series was pretty much an abomination given what it could have been, the biggest mistake undoubtedly being the omission of any of Walden's material. However, I was channel-hopping the other week and I stumbled upon the end credits for Channel 4's I'LL FLY AWAY, the series which follows the fortunes of a civil rights lawyer in 50's America. To be honest, the show didn't sound too appealing, and I haven't tuned in since but you might be interested to note that the music for the series was composed by Snuffy Walden himself. Now, I can't be positive, but it seems more than likely that a soundtrack album has been released. Those interested should enquire at a decent record store in a major centre of population as it's likely to be available on import only or try soundtrack specialists 58 Dean Street Records, LONDON (call 071-734-8777).

What's more, the August edition of RECORD COLLECTOR reviewed two albums by 'Stray Dog' which have recently been re-issued an the Renaissance label. There can't be too many "Snuffy Walden"s in the world so it seems reasonable to suggest that the lead singer with said combo is, so to speak, our Snuffy.

Presumably hailing from the mid-70's, "...the band isn't sure if they're Led Zeppelin or something even more ghastly...but I'm certain that my life would be immediately enriched if they stopped playing their driving-nowhere rifferama". 'Stray Dog' and 'Fasten Your Seatbelts' are available to buy now!!!!

THE FINAL CHAPTER

All good things come to pass, but if ya gotta go then it's perhaps best to go with a bang. Against the odds, THE WONDER YEARS, unlike so many other long-running television series, held its head up high, maintained its own high standards and delivered a wealth of memorable moments that I, for one, will treasure for years to come. In its final burst, when things could have gone downhill so quickly, TWY instead produced a season equal to those classic early episodes, by and large free of the 'filler' material that had made the last few series a bit of a rollercoaster ride. This new series upped the music quota once again and there were a good few more of those great daydream sequences that were such a delight during Kevin's younger days. And then...and then the writers hammer us with that final episode! Yikes! Was there a dry eye in the house? I suspect not!

The most noticeable aspect of season 6 was the amount of straight-ahead comedy episodes, tempered by the upheavals in the Arnold household. It was almost as if it was a case of partying whilst the world burned. Most definitely, the 'Wonder Years' were rapidly being *concined* to history - it was like there was an unwritten rule: HAVE FUN NOW! before it's too late. Mind you, the first episode, "The Hero Returns" was fairly downbeat; Wart's return from Vietnam as a man contrasted with the trivialities and childishness of his old life and friends. After that tho', it was chucklerama for a while, "Scenes From A Wedding" was very funny ("Sure thing, lambchop!") in its saucy undercurrent and I was in absolute fits when Kevin knocked the head off the ice swan. "The Fishing Trip" was great too, but had a serious side to it - namely Jack's inability to see that his family was grown up and no longer wanted to do the things it used to.

Believe it or not, I was really impressed with this series' 'Kevin and Winnie' episodes. They weren't corny or overtly sentimental, they were just handled really well. Therefore I had no problems with "White Lies" or "Wayne and Bonnie" the two linked episodes where the young lovers split up again, realise they've made a mistake, etc., etc. As a counterpoint to these events, Wayne, now working at Norcom alongside Jack, brought Bonnie Douglas (Paula Marshall) into the fold. Only one problem. Bonnie was older than Wayne and for good measure, was already a mother. The change in Wayne was great, gone was the proverbial pain in the posterior, welcome gurgling house-hubby, enthusing over junk rescued from the Arnold garage.

The two episodes "The Test" and "Let Nothing You Dismay" were, I thought, crucial to the series. As 1972 drew to an end, it was time for the lines to be drawn. Futures were being mapped. Wayne, it seemed, was paired up, everything was quiet on the Kev-and-Winnie front, Norma graduated from state college, Jack leaves Norcom to take the first faltering steps towards running his own business. Nevertheless, Kevin and his peers had to sit the dreaded S.A.T.'s which would, according to Paul shape every single part of the rest of their lives. It's worth noting here how little Paul had to do in this series, his best friend role being apparently usurped by new guy Jeff Billings (Giovanni Ribisi) who I thought was a delight, laid-back and ever so slightly cynical at the madness of it all. Of course, the whole friendship 'thing' came to a head in the fantastic "Poker" towards the end of the series, where all the hidden, unsaid stuff that builds up between a tight-knit group, came to the surface with spectacular results.

In the last half of the series, it has to be said that the bulk of the episodes were played for laughs, though most had semi-serious undercurrents, the exceptions being "Unpacking" and Jason Hervey's tour de force "New Year" both of which showed a maturity of writing that in previous years could easily have been plain schmaltz. Only "Hulk Arnold" didn't seem to ring true. I mean, wrestling? Jeez. And "Nose" was pretty dumb too, if only because the story was built around an obviously attractive actress having to suffer the indignitity of wearing a blatantly obvious false nose. Snort.

I didn't know what to expect with "Summer". To be the very last episodes of TWY things didn't really seem to be so very different from an ordinary, run-of-the-mill Kevin vs. Winnie set-up. The epilogue section however, was perfect. It refused to play to audience expectation, and though a happy ending, was tinged with a hint of sadness. Was anybody really disappointed? It was the only ending they could have done and still held their heads up in public. Brilliant.

MUSIC FROM THE WONDER YEARS - A slight Return (Part 2)

Holland-Dozier-Holland also wrote a string of hits for another all-girl Motown group, Martha Reeves & The Vandellas. Martha Reeves' singing style was less melodic than Diana Ross's, and more suited to the driving rhythms of the fast dance tracks with which the group was successful, most notably 'Dancing In The Street'. One of their strongest tracks was 'Nowhere To Run' which reached the US Top Ten in 1965. In an episode of TWY called 'Mom Wars' it offers an amusing comment as Kevin is reluctantly dragged away from his football game to buy new trousers with his mother.

Outside the Motown stable, one of the most successful independent labels producing high quality soul during the 60's was Atlantic and its subsidiaries Stax and Volt. Otis Redding, regarded as one of the greatest soul singers had signed to Atlantic in 1962, and developed a highly emotive and moving vocal style. In 1965 he released 'Otis Blue', an album often considered to be one of the all-time best soul LP's. Certainly, it contains some of his most memorable performances including a version of Sam Cooke's 'A Change Is Gonna Come' and the self-penned, emotionally charged ballad 'I've Been Loving You Too Long' which TWY uses over the closing scenes of 'Dance With Me' as Kevin and Winnie dance together. Redding went on to produce one of the most famous soul tracks of all-time, 'Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay', a sweet and reflective song which signalled a major change in direction. Ironically, it was released posthumously as Redding had been killed in a plane crash the previous year.

One of the pall-bearers at Reddings funeral was Percy Sledge whose sweet and melodic voice was used to beautiful effect on a set of songs for Atlantic, including the best known, 'When A Man Loves A Woman', something of a theme tune in TWY, appearing in a number of episodes including the pilot.

Another singer with a particularly distinctive voice was Aaron Neville whose high wavering was most effective in his 1966 million-selling ballad 'Tell It Like It Is', which TWY uses in 'Swingers', a strong early episode.

Not all black artists during this period produced soul. BB King was a blues guitarist and singer who shrewdly kept up with musical trends during the 60's and, unlike Muddy Waters, maintained his profile and popularity with black audiences. 'The Thrill Is Gone' released in 1969, included strings in its arrangement and was his most successful single. It features in TWY in 'Steady As She Goes'. Johnny Nash went to Jamaica in 1968 to explore the rhythms of reggae and produced 'I Can See Clearly Now' with help from Bob Marley and the Wailers. A huge success, it can be heard in 'The Family Car', an episode in which Jack Arnold is persuaded to part with his old car and buy a new one. Richie Havens was a gospel singer as a child, but developed a talent for the guitar and became part of the Greenwich Village folk scene in New York. His urgent, impassioned vocal style and rapidly strummed guitar had little in common with other contemporary black music, but gained him much interest amongst white audiences. Having recorded an album of Dylan and Beatles covers in 1969, he went on to revive George Harrison's 'Here Comes The Sun' in 1971. Featured in 'Heart Of Darkness', the songs' rapidly stressed guitar intro is one of its several distinctive features.

By the early seventies, many of the classic 60's pop-soul acts had either disbanded, or at least passed the peak of their success. One of the acts which presented a new development of pop-related harmony was the Stylistics, who achieved enormous success in the early 70's with a string of songs sung in falsetto, a precursor of what was to come later. One of their earlier hits, 'You Are Everything' from 1972, features twice in episodes of TWY. Later tracks, though popular, descended into formula and sentimentality. Ultimately, they fell from favour, like many others, as disco took its revenge on the sweet soul music of the 60's.
- Simon Brickwood.

CULT TV series The Wonder Years is to be axed amid allegations of an off-screen sex scandal. DAILY RECORD, Friday, May 7,1993

The show's former make-up girl claims that actor Fred Savage, who stars as Kevin Arnold, pestered her for sex. Though he denies it, the Channel 4 series will end next month - ironically, with Kevin hounding his on-screen sweetheart for sex. The harassment claims have shocked US viewers, who regard Fred as the wholesome, all-American boy.

Make-up artist Monique Long, 32, says the reality is he's a randy teenager who made her life a misery. She says that Fred, 16, didn't care that she was married, and subjected her to a constant barrage of suggestive comments.

ADVANCES

Monique claims he kept touching her, made sexual remarks and advances. And that he asked her to go with him as his date to his high school dance. To back up her claims, she has filed a sexual harassment suit in Los Angeles.

She says: "Fred once said: 'Oh, Monique, I'm so in love with you, please have an affair with me.' "I got tired of him - his conduct was horribly offensive. Fred persisted in asking me out on dates and to go to school dances and parties. He promised me anything, if only I would have an affair with him."

Monique has also accused Fred's co-star and TV brother, Jason Hervey, of sexually harassing her. She claimed: "He'd make sexual remarks like: 'How's your sex life? How do you like it?' and 'I bet you're wild in bed.'"

On one occasion on the set, she claims, Hervey grabbed her and began to simulate a sexual act. He had to be pried off by crew members. Monique says that the show's producers are well aware of the sexual harassment on 'The Wonder Years' set, but that the other women don't want to lose their jobs.

LOVER

At one point, she says, she appealed to the show's TV dad, actor Dan Lauria, for help in dealing with Fred's advances. Instead, he told Monique in front of Fred: "You know he's been in love with you since you started. You should be his first lover."

Fred's lawyer denies Monique's version of events, adding: "We expect to defend his case and win."

The show's American makers, ABC, says that it will broadcast the last episode in the US next Wednesday. In Britain, where episodes lag a few weeks behind, the show will finish on June 13.

"To my knowledge, The Wonder Years was going to come to an end this year anyway," said a spokesman for the show's British agents. "You can't say it has been axed if it has come to the end of its natural life."

The last episode is an hour-long special, in which Kevin visits a holiday resort, where his girlfriend, Winnie, is working. He gets a shock when he discovers her in a clinch with a lifeguard, but tries to win her back.

The show's producers won't reveal whether he succeeds in getting further with her than he did with Monique.




SEASON ONE

1. The Wonder Years - Kevins first day at RFK Junior High...
2. Swingers - Kevins first kiss...(Kyle's note - this is incorrect!).
3. My Fathers Office - Kevin is invited to his fathers work...
4. Angel - Kevin is horrified at Karen's new boyfriend...
5. The Phone Call - Advice is required regarding that all-important first step...
6. Dance With Me - Kevin has no partner for the school dance...

SEASON TWO

7. Heart Of Darkness - Kevin tries to stay cool, by befriending a toughie...
8. Our Miss White - He develops a crush on his English teacher...
9. Christmas - Kevin feels Christmas is different this year...
10. Steady as She Goes - Kevin joins the going-steady gang too early...
11. Just Between You and Me...and Kirk and Paul... - Relationship troubles...
12. Pottery Will Get You Nowhere - Norma takes up pottery...
13. Coda - Kevin develops a dislike for his piano lessons...
14. Hiroshima, Mon Frere - Kevin and Wayne re-assess their relationship...
15. Loosiers - Kevin and Paul stick up for each other, even in gym class...
16: Walk Out - He becomes transfixed by the Vietnam war...
17. Nemesis - "Hell Hath No Fury Like A Woman Scorned"...
18. Fate - Kevin learns to stand up for himself...
19. Birthday Boy - It's Kevin's 13th birthday, and Paul's Bar Mitzvah...
20. Brightwing - Karen is taking time off school...
21. Square Dance - Kevin finds an unusual partner for dancing class...
22. Whose Woods Are These? - Kevin, Paul and Winnie try to preserve memories...
23. How I'm spending My Summer Vacation - Kevin looks forward to his holiday...

SEASON THREE

24. Summer Song - The Arnold's holiday in Ocean City...
25. Mom Wars - Norma gets over-protective...(Kyle's note - obviously reversed with "Math Class")
26. Wayne On Wheels - Wayne gets his driving license...
27. Math class - Kevin gets a 'D'...(Kyle's note - obviously reversed with "Mom Wars")
28. On The Spot - Kevin mans the spotlight whilst Winnie treads tbe boards...
29. Odd Man Out - Doug Porter enters the scene...
30. The Family Car - The Arnolds need a new car...
31. The Pimple - Kev gets a pimple only days before family friends arrive...
32. Math Class Squared - Kevin's math problems multiply as he moves up a class...
33. Rock'n'Roll - Kevin joins a band...
34. Don't You Know Anything About Women? - Another school dance...
35. The Powers that Be - Jack and Grandpa battle over a puppy...
36. She, My Friend, And I - Kevin sets Paul up with Winnie...
37. St. Valentine's Day Massacre - Kevins plans to make up with Winnie...
38. The Tree House - Jack and Kevin are confronted by a new neighbour...
39. Glee Club - Time for the Spring Sing...
40. Night Out - Kev and Winnie go to a party...
41. Faith - Kevin has to write his obituary...
42. The Unnatural - Jack thinks Kev has a gift for baseball...
43. Good-Bye - Kevin fails his maths exam on purpose...
44. Cocoa and Sympathy - Kev wants to know his mother better...
45. Daddy's Little Girl - Jack and Karen battle it out...
46. Moving - Winnie announces she is leaving...

SEASON FOUR

47. Growing Up - The office picnic...
48. Ninth Grade Man - Madeline shows up for the first time...
49. The Journey - Kevin and Friends crash a slumber party...
50. The Cost of Living - Kevin gets a job on a golf course...
51. It's A Mad, Mad, Madeline World - A cookery project awaits...
52. Little Debbie - Kevin has an admirer...
53. The Ties That Bind - Jack gets promoted...
54. Sixth Man - Paul tries out for the basketball team...
55. A Very Cutlip Christmas - Cutlip has a secret...
56. The Candidate - Kevin stands for election...
57. Heartbreak - The school goes on a day trip to the museum...
58. Denial - Kevin tries to come to terms with the days events...
59. Who's Aunt Rose? - Kevin has to attend a funeral...
60. Courage - ...and then the dentist's...
61. Buster - The family pet has things on his mind...
62. Road Trip - Kevin and Jack go clothes hunting...
63. When Worlds Collide - Norma gets a job at RFK...
64. Separate Rooms - Kevin and Wayne fight over Karen's room...
65. The Yearbook - Kevin gets on said commitee...
66. The Accident - Winnie has...an accident!...
67. The House That Jack Built - Karen infuriates Jack...
68. Graduation - Kevin leaves Junior High...
69. Looking Back - Compilation episode...

SEASON FIVE

70. The Lake - The Arnold's and Pfeiffer's holiday together...
71. Day One - High School...
72. Hardware Store - Kevin gets a part-time job...
73. Frank and Denise - Kevin acts as mediator...
74. Full Moon Rising - Teenage boys and cars...
75. Triangle - Kevin falls for Wayne's new girlfriend...
76. Soccer - Kevin joins in...
77. Dinner Out - A meal with Karen and Michael...
78. Christmas Party - The annual Arnold bash...
79. Pfeiffer's Fortune - Paul's dad strikes rich...
80. Road Test - Kevin sits his driving test...
81. Grandpa's Car - Kevin inherits his grandfather's car...
82. Kodachrome - An unconventional teacher...
83. Private Butthead - Wayne wants to join the army...
84. Of Mastadons and Men - An over-bearing girlfriend...
85. Double Double Date - Kevin and Winnie find their ideal partners...
86. Hero - Kevin follows his school basketball team...
87. Lunch Stories - Meal time events...
88. Carnal Knowledge - Paul gets intimate with a family friend...
89. Lost Weekend - Norma and Jack leave Kevin and Wayne on their own...
90. Stormy Weather - Michael wants to marry Karen...
91. The Wedding - The Arnolds gain a new member...
92. Return to the Lake - Kevin seeks out Cara...
93. Broken Hearts and Burgers - Kevin remembers his times with Winnie...

NOTES

Episodes have been split into their respective seasons as shown on US TV rather than the series format as shown in the UK. Further to earlier correspondence in previous issues, it does seem the first episodes of TWY were filmed, and broadcast sometime before the other episodes that we regard as series one.

Keith Rogers has listed "Mom Wars" and "Math Class" the other way round. The order listed is how it was shown on C4 but perhaps was different in the States? - Thanks to Keith, Stephen Hogg and especially Steve Rag who unwittingly provided the inspiration for this thing.

Plot synopses are an amalgamation of those taken from TV Times and, especially for seasons 4/5, my own memory. If you are still unable to clearly identify a particular episode, or spot a mistake, drop a note.

WOODSTOCK 7 is © 1992 Woodstook Prods. and individual contributors. Edited blah blah by Douglas Baptie. Thanks to the usual names and faces. Long letters always welcome and those who enclose an SAE may well get a reply.

Due to various feats of jiggery-pokery and our move to this handy pocket-sized format, it's been possible to revise the existing subscription fees to Woodstock. As from next issue, a 3-issue subscription will only cost £2.50, which even if I do say so myself, sounds like a bit of a bargain.

If your existing sub ends with this issue, this box here > [ ] will be marked. Obviously, our recent record isn't too impressive, but hopefully our existing readers will continue with us as we venture into this exciting new era. Anyway, cheques etc. should be made payable to 'D.Baptie' & sent to the usual address.

I still have a very ltd. number of back issues of #'s 2 & 7 which are available at £1.50 the two.

SEASON SIX - Episode Guide

This rounds up all WY episodes to date. One thing to note - I have two differing titles for the first two episodes. This suggests that some of the others may be incorrect also. Any suggestions, corrections will be most welcome.

94. The Hero Returns/The Homecoming - Wayne's friend returns from Vietnam
95. The Fishing Trip/Fishing - Self-explanatory!!
96. Scenes From A Wedding - It's a Norcom affair...
97. Sex And Economics - Kevin gets a painting job...
98. Politics As Usual - Not quite Watergate...
99. White Lies - Kevin's locker-room jokes...
100. Wayne & Bonnie - A new friend at the Norcom picnic...
101. Kevin Delivers - Working at Mr. Chong's Chinese...
102. The Test - Kev and co. sit their S.A.T.'s...
103. Let Nothing You Dismay - Christmas once again...
104. New Year - The Arnolds take in a supperclub...
105. Alice in Autoland - Kev needs a new car...
106. Ladies And Gentleman...The Rolling Stones...
107. Unpacking - Jeff has to exorcise some ghosts...
108. Hulk Arnold - Kevin tries out on the wrestling team...
109. Nose - A new girl has a big problem...
110. Eclipse - A trip to the observatory...
111. Poker - Friendships strain under friendly betting...
112. Little Women - Those S.A.T. results come through...
113. Reunion - Norma goes back to some old memories...
114. Summer (Part 1) - Winnie goes off to a summer job...
115. Summer (Part 2) but Kevin soon follows...(Kyle's note - This is "Independence Day")

Note - "Summer" was shown as a one-hour special in the USA.

WOODSTOCK Vol 2 #1 is © Eyebaby 1993 and individual contributors. Edited etc. by Douglas Baptie.

Please address all mail, letters, contributions, gossip, holiday photos, presents to -
Douglas Baptie, Top Flat, 1 Ancrum Court, HAWICK, TD9 7DB, Scotland, UK.



April 1994

This is the last Woodstock basically because there no longer appears to be the enthusiasm either out in the wider world or with me. Other projects are proving more interesting. If anyone feels they are entitled to a refund, please do so by 14th May - otherwise any monies will be donated to Oxfam or Shelter (haven't decided which yet). If anyone wants to keep in touch, please do so - after all, I still like The Wonder Years! My address, as always is - Top Flat, 1 Ancrum Court, HAWICK TD9 7DB, UK. Anyone wanting to keep up with the actors etc. or anything else WY-ish then contact Bob Chell, PO Box 192, Silver Springs, NV 89429-0192, USA. He'll be happy to hear from you. That's it I guess, thanks to everyone who's stuck with us over the years,
Best Wishes,
Douglas Baptie

News

As anyone with a satellite dish will know, TWY has been airing every day on the Family Channel. This appears to be an 'endless loop', so if you miss an episode it is likely to come around again sooner or later. C4 is airing the final series on Thursdays. As for the cast, Fred Savage does indeed seem to be in college, but it seems unlikely he will drop out of the public eye for ever. Indeed he guested on Danica McKellar's new magazine format show TEEN SCENE where she tries out new sports, crazes etc. She too started college (last Autumn). She also guested on CELEBRITY KIDS CRUISE, MARIO BROS (TV show) and BABYLON 5. The address for her given last time is already out of date!...Olivia D'Abo starred in FOR LOVE OR GLORY (a TV movie), WAYNE'S WORLD 2 and the upcoming GREEDY with Kirk Douglas and Michael J. Fox. Her film SPIRIT OF 76 which came out a few years ago only recently gained a UK video release...Dan Lauria starred in ANOTHER STAKEOUT and IN THE LINE OF DUTY: AMBUSH AT WACO...Alley Mills guested on DR. QUINN - MEDICINE WOMAN...Daniel Stern directed and starred in ROOKIE OF THE YEAR alongside Andrew Berman (Chuck)...Snuffy Walden, TWY music-man has been working on the current series of ROSEANNE...Fred's little brother Ben got his own series, BOY MEETS WORLD, which appears to be a contemporary version of TWY and also starred in WILD PALMS.
















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