While we were viewing Marty's exhibit, his sister Jennifer came over and gave us each a hug. We talked for a few minutes and went on our way. After trying to figure out how the water fountains worked (no handles, it was a type of motion sensor that worked for some people and not others), we enjoyed the Rotunda where all the plaques for those inducted into the Hall of Fame are hanging on the wall. The plaques are placed as notes for the song "Will The Circle Be Unbroken." We saw a lot of empty areas that would be perfect for a plaque bearing the name of Marty Stuart. Marty says this is where he wants to end up some day.

Outside the Rotunda are steps leading back down to the Conservatory. They were serving coffee, ice tea or water and a couple of different desserts. The line to see Marty had formed, although he was still touring the Hall of Fame. We found a table and sat down to eat. Mary decided to "doodle" on the paper table cloth. Mario wanted to take a picture of Debby, Mary and me. I enjoyed talking with Tammy Lienhart and Melanie Renfro (loved the jacket, Mel). Said "hi" to Gregg Stocki. Jodee had mingled through the crowd and I know she talked with every person there. We did see a lot of Travis Tritt's fan club members who were also invited to the fan club party. I did not see Steve or Brad, although Evie had her picture taken with Steve.

Marty's mom, Hilda, was making her way through the crowd, talking with everyone. She came over and asked if we'd gotten another pet (we haven't). She talked about their dog Buddy (a gift from Marty) and their three cats (one of which had spent the evening on Marty's lap when he'd come by for a visit). We spotted Connie coming our way. Connie's fans surrounded her and she gladly signed autographs and posed for pictures. Some fans came bearing gifts as well. Connie is such a sweetheart. Mario insisted that I go talk with Connie. I really think he just wanted to get up close and personal to her -- as any normal red-blooded man would. She gave us both a hug and posed for a picture with me. Dumb me completely forgot to wish her luck in the Golden Voice Awards, which were to be presented the next day on the General Jackson. She didn't need my luck because she WON the Female Golden Voice Award for 2001.

Marty had finally arrived (we could tell due to the screams of the crowd) and the line started to move. We finally decided to get up and stand....... and wait. Maria-Elena was there to take pictures. Some fans had a lot of things they wanted signed, but line moved fairly fast. It seems like you're up there and gone in a flash. Kristin, here's Marty signing your CD cover. We were toward the end of the line, so we just waited until Marty was finished signing and posing. He had to "ham" it up with Connie for some pictures. Those "bunny ears" went up and down on the back of their heads. Then, all too soon, it's over and, out the door we went.

We missed getting to see Marty and the Cowboys perform, but the emphasis here was on the new Country Music Hall of Fame. It is a beautiful facility. But now, another Fan Club Party is history.

Review by Sherry Mattioli
(all photos by Mario Mattioli)