It was a weekend full of fun times and "happy thoughts" as Junie would put it!  Grand Rapids, MN, birthplace of the legendary Judy Garland, hosted a wonderful celebration for what would have been Judy's 80th birthday.  Guest stars for the event included the wonderful Margaret O'Brien (Journey For Margaret, Music For Millions, Meet Me In St. Louis & Little Women,) who gave a great talk about her career and signed autographs for fans, Mickey Rooney (Andy Hardy, Babes In Arms, Girl Crazy) and his wife Jan, who entertained festival goers with a great show singing many songs and paying tribute to his onscreen partner and dear friend, Judy Garland and of course our very own June Allyson, who also signed autographs and met with fans. 

Both June and her husband, Dr. David Ashrow, had a great time as they did when they first attended the festival in June of 1998.  June wanted us to thank everyone who attended and wanted to tell you how much she enjoyed meeting everyone.  You all were so sweet to her and she appreciates you very much.  She gets so much from your kind words.  Angie and I enjoyed meeting you all as well.  A lot of people we have gotten to know through this website were at the festival, and it was nice to finally put faces with names.  Thank you to Gordon Stevens from Canada for the sweet rewrite you did to June's song, "Thou Swell."  She really enjoyed everyone's tribute when you all sang it to her.  You all made her weekend.  Thank you also to the Festival organizers, especially Jon Miner, John Kelsch and Polly.  Great Job!

As always for June,

Angie & Erin