When we arrived at the restaurant in Los Angeles on February 29, 2004 at 11:30 a.m., we were greeted under mostly blue skies, a little cool, with a smattering of clouds. The day was filled with antipication, having the opportunity to once again meet with my three favorite people for lunch, Noel Neill, Larry Ward, and Jan Alan Henderson.

Arriving a half hour early, gave Leslie and I the opportunity to check things out, and be certain we were at the proper site to meet. About twenty minutes later, we saw Larry and Ms. Neill pulling into the parking lot in what would be Larry's fine looking red and white restored 1974 Triumph. What a beaut! Leslie and I decided to remain back as they entered into the restaurant.

With gifts in hand for Noel, Larry, and Jan, we entered, and found Larry and Ms. Neill in the center of the eatery. They both rose from the table, and greeted us with big smiles and hugs! This immediately put me at ease. Larry drew chairs for us, and seated me next to Ms. Neill, and like the gentleman that he is, seated Leslie.

What was so wonderful about our encounter, is that Noel and Larry treated us like "Family!" Our converations flowed so naturally as if we were picking up on family business stuff, and included us in everything!

Jan Alan Henderson would arrive several minutes later. Jan was the same way. He is such an engaging person, and treated us the same way as Larry and Noel. This is how it is, when you have common interest, and love for the same things!

We talked and laughed all through the lunch. We got on the subject of "George" and those most uncomfortable uni's that he had to wear! I leaned over to Ms. Neill and said, "As hot as these uni's were, I'm sure he didn't have to worry about losing weight!" She replied, he just hated having to work out, but he did what he had to do!" Fans, I tell you, he did this for us.

Leslie and I were so delighted to present our family with gifts. The opportunity arrived, and Leslie, the night before used tender loving care in wrapping these gifts with gold paper, dressed in blue, and red ribbion. We presented Larry and Jan with quill pens, ink included. When we gave Ms. Neill hers, she didn't want to open it up because of the beauty of the packaging. She did however, and when she opened it, she found a leather photo box with a famous quote. When she opened the box, she found wrapped in package paper, an antique cowboy belt buckle. I learned that she collects these! If any of you decide to grace her with a gift, do this!

In our conversations, we learned that Larry and Leslie have alot in common. Leslie works in the mental heath field, and Larry has also! Next year, Leslie will be working on her masters degree, and Larry has been there, and done that! He was most helpful, and insightful to Leslie. I let them all know, that Leslie is my retirement investment!

Now, Ms. Neill, Larry, and Jan, were most generous to us as well. Ms. Neill presented autographed photos. One was of her with Siegel and Shuster. As most of you remember, Siegel and Shuster are the creators of the Superman character. She also presented us with a beautiful Hollywood stlll portrait that I would guess be from the early 1940s. What a babe! And finally, a still of her and Kirk Alyn from the Superman serials. All autographed! Wow!

Larry was gracious to present to me an autographed poster of their booksigning tour in Minneapolis. Jan Alan Henderson, presented us with an autographed book cover of Speeding Bullet, The Life And Bizzare Death of George Reeves. Jan was also gracious enough to sign my personal copy of the book, he also signed my Cult Movies, and Filmfax mags with his interview with Ms. Neill, and his review on terrorism. Also, CD's of his fine recorded music. Yes, Jan is quite a talented guy! The magazines are a must read for you fans! Ms. Neill also included autographs on the mag!

When we exited the restaurant, we just hung out for awhile. I felt that there was a sense that we didn't want to leave. We eventually went out to the parking lot hanging around Larry's car, taking more photos, and dialoging for quite awhile.

It started to get a little chilly, and Larry, bless his heart, was concerned that he get Ms. Neill home. However, all of our hearts were warm, and before they left, they gave us big hugs, and smiles. As they drove off, I had this feeling, that we would be together again in the near future! What a day!

Jan Alan Henderson, was so great to babysit Leslie and I for awhile longer. I love Jan's candor, and sense of humor. He is one of the finest, and most unique human beings I have ever met! Leslie and I are proud to call him "Friend!"

I thank all you "TAOS" friends for sharing this day with Leslie and me. We were there for you too!

God's Best For You All,
Carl And Leslie