News & Press

Women At Risk Concert

On Sunday, April 13th I will be giving a concert in Los Angeles at The Avalon Hollywood at 6:00 PM to benefit Women At Risk. My new band and I will be performing the new show "The Other Side of Me" and I know that so many of the lyrics will have special meaning to many in the audience. I just want to take the opportunity to say how important this organization is. I hope that those who can will come out to be part of the night and to lend your support. I'm proud to lend my voice and time for a good cause.

Women At Risk began in 1991 as one of the first organizations specifically for women in Los Angeles County living with HIV/AIDS. Women infected with HIV/AIDS felt like they were alone, having little or no contact with other women living with this disease. Currently, they have fifteen groups with a commitment to start more where and when needed. Women At Risk is committed to providing quality and confidential services in an uncomplicated manner to women whose lives are forever changed by HIV/AIDS.

Hope to see you there!

Linda Eder

Introducing My New CD, “the other side of me”!

Join me and my new band for a night of music to kick off the first live performance of the other side of me.

It took a year and a half to make my new CD, the other side of me, but in reality, it has been a lifetime in the making.

The Elton John song from THE LION KING has been playing in my head lately. It's called The Circle of Life and I've come to understand it much better than I used to. I've been blessed with a successful singing career — the kind of career that young singers aspire to — and for that I am grateful. I've also been cursed with a self critical, constantly searching for something mentality that can be hard to live with. This CD represents so many things, but most importantly, it represents the need to be myself.

I have talked often in interviews about my early vocal influences; the women whose voices inspired me to build my own voice. I fell in love with a vocal sound and I followed that sound into the types of music that those voices favored. I learned, I emulated, and I took on the role and it has taken me many wonderful places. I love the classic standards, will never abandon them, and I wouldn't trade one minute of my career, but I feel a need to grow, to move forward, and to do that I have to go back to the beginning.

As a kid I was a talented but undisciplined piano student. So in one of our early changes of address, the upright piano was left behind. As a young teenager I bought myself a cheap acoustic guitar so I would have a way to accompany my inner poet. What I wrote in those early years and the voice that I used to sing was the truest expression of who I really am. There were no outside influences to color or shape the vowels or direct the emotions. There was no record of past performances to measure up to, just my own words, my own history, and my own voice.

I have finally been given the chance to strip away the costume and sing without the voice of others in my head. I've traveled a long road to find my way back home and I have found it. The Other Side of Me is my voice.

My co-producer and friend, Billy Jay Stein, and I created the other side of me together. It is an album of American pop and country flavored songs and arrangements. Each song was chosen because it felt like something I wanted say. It is heavy on acoustic guitar with melodies and rhythms designed to make you feel good as you drive down a stretch of highway or a country road. I hope you will find as I do that the songs grow on you rather than wear you out and make repeated listening easy and desirable. I think you will feel good after listening because the messages are mostly positive and uplifting. My desire was not to sing at you but to sing with you... to go to a sunny stretch of road and stay there for awhile. If you are looking for the echo of Judy or Barbra you won't find it in this CD. If you want to hear THE OTHER SIDE OF ME... here I am. Hop on the Bus!

Join me and my new band for a night of music to kick off the first live performance of the other side of me.

Linda Eder

Summer/Fall 2007 edition of THE VOICE!

Happy Fall 2007 from the EDER-tors of THE VOICE! In this issue, Linda's letter to the fans gives us some insight into the making of her upcoming album. Among the features of this edition are insightful and fun interviews with Clint de Ganon and Kim Scharnberg, and a closer look at Linda's GREATEST HITS CD. Also, learn everything you ever wanted to know about Linda in “Getting To Know You,” check out what your fellow fans had to say about Linda's Feinstein's shows, and see how much fun was had by fans attending the GREATEST HITS CD signing in New York City. Your returning favorite, Fan Corner, is back and we're thrilled to introduce a new recurring section of THE VOICE — FAN-tastic Feature! Enjoy!

Winter/Spring 2007 edition of THE VOICE!

Happy Spring to the readers of THE VOICE! The Winter/Spring 2007 Edition is here for you to enjoy. As always, we know you look forward to Linda's letter... her “blog” where she shares her thoughts with you. In this issue you will find two interesting and insightful interviews — one with David Finck, Linda's Bass player, and one with Ronni Hart, her concert manager. In addition, we've featured three different and special “Linda Experiences”: “Two For The Road Plus Seven” examines Linda's touring show with Michael Feinstein from the band's unique perspective; “The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year” takes a look back at the 2006 Holiday Shows; and an article on Linda's return to Feinstein's at The Regency gives fans a taste of this intimate venue. And of course, you — the fans — shine as brightly as ever in Fan Corner! Happy reading!

THE VOICE is here

The Summer/Fall 2006 Issue of THE VOICE is jam-packed with the unique insights, exclusive interviews and photos that you've come to expect of this semi-annual tradition — Linda's letter to the fans will touch your heart; and, you'll be captivated by one-on-one sit-downs with Linda's talented Keyboardist and Assistant Musical Director Andy Ezrin; renowned Irish Tenor and “Trail MIXer” Ronan Tynan; incomparable celebrity Journalist and Radio Personality Karel; and Linda's current touring partner, a brilliant musician, singer and keeper of The Great American Songbook, Michael Feinstein.

This edition of THE VOICE is extra FAN-tastic, with your reaction to Trail MIX; fun stories about the Day at Pets Alive with Linda by the lucky auction winners; a special section on the “Two For The Road” tour that we like to call “Two for Review;” the fun designs of some very creative (and stylish!) fans in THE VOICE “Beau-TEE-ful Fashion Contest;” and a guest reporter feature that's so full of surprises, you'll just have to check it out to believe it! All of this — plus your returning favorites, EDER-tors' Notes and Fan Corner.

So as the seasons turn... sit back... relax... and prepare to turn a page or two. Happy reading!

Linda makes her triumphant return to Feinstein's at the Regency for a five night engagement

TICKETS ON SALE MONDAY, JANUARY 23rd

New York, NY — 1/23/2006 — Linda Eder will return to Feinstein's at The Regency for a five night run April 4th to April 8th. Linda's last appearance at Feinstein's was an astonishing ten days of thrilling performances that quickly became New York's social and celebrity destination du jour. Tickets go on sale Monday, January 23rd.

Earlier this fall, Eder released "BY MYSELF: The Songs of Judy Garland" (Angel Records). She has been touring the country performing songs from her new album as well as those which have become her signatures. Additionally, she and longtime friend and recording artist Michael Feinstein have developed a show which they are performing in between their solo engagements (please check the artist's websites for itineraries www.LindaEder.com and www.MichaelFeinstein.com).

Linda's tour saw her return to the illustrious Carnegie Hall where she performed to critical and audience acclaim. Linda has also incorporated her passion for horses into her work and will be hosting "Trail MIX," a two-hour Animal Planet special which she created and co-executive produced. The special, which airs Sunday, January 29th at 8PM (please check local listings for additional air dates), features Eder "horsing around" with recording artists such as Sheryl Crow, Rob Thomas and LeAnn Rimes among others, who share passion and inspiration for all things equine.

Upcoming touring highlights include performances at The Palace Theatre in Stamford, CT on January 27th and with Feinstein at The Theater in the Atlantic City Hilton for two nights the weekend of February 18th.

Along with her love for horses, Linda has also supported her love for children by participating in the annual fundraiser for the Only Make Believe Foundation. Founded by Dena Hammerstein in 1999 at the Rusk Institute's Pediatric Unit of the NYU Hospitals Center, it has provided hundreds of workshops and brings musical theater to children in New York City medical facilities.

Eder began her career with a 13 week unprecedented win on Star Search and went on to star as Lucy in Jekyll and Hyde in her Broadway debut. In additional to her many successful solo albums, she has been featured in events ranging from the Opening Ceremony of the 2002 Olympics to a Bravo Holiday Special which has also been released on DVD.

FEINSTEIN'S AT THE REGENCY will play the following schedule: Tuesday through Saturday at 8:30 PM and a late show on Friday and Saturday at 11 PM. Jackets are suggested but not required. FEINSTEIN'S AT THE REGENCY is located at 540 Park Avenue at 61st Street in New York City. For ticket reservations and club information, please call at (212) 339-4095 or visit www.feinsteinsattheregency.com and TicketWeb.com.

Winter 2006 edition of THE VOICE is here

The time has come to "saddle up" and prepare for an amazing ride… into the world of celebrity singers and their horses. The Winter 2006 edition of THE VOICE is here to start the countdown to the premiere of Trail MIX on January 29, 2006 at 8:00 p.m. on Animal Planet (check local listings for additional airings) Your excitement will build as you read interviews with Executive Producers Linda and Maureen Smith and with Mrs. Eder. View never-before-seen photos from the shoots. Other special features in this edition include fan favorite -- Linda's letter, an in-depth get to know you interview with Linda's musical director, John Oddo, a review with exclusive official photos from Carnegie Hall, and three great reviews of other BY MYSELF shows by the fans. Many readers of THE VOICE from all over the world have contributed to "My Inspiration," Linda Pets, and Fan Corner, to truly makes this edition special. So… keep warm, get comfortable, and enjoy!

Special Holiday Issue of the Voice!

As an early holiday gift, they've done it again!! Just as we've finished devouring every word and photo in the BY MYSELF issue of THE VOICE, the Eder-tors have created a special Holiday edition filled with personal wishes, memories, recipes and crafts from LINDA and her "inner circle" for you to share. Read, enjoy, bake, taste, build, have fun - and let us know how you did (don't forget to send photos!)

BY MYSELF Special Feature

Exclusive Video Footage From The Making Of BY MYSELF

Low Bandwidth      High Bandwidth

See our behind-the-scenes video of Linda at London's Palladium, Abbey Road Studios, with the London Symphony and then travel back across the Atlantic as she completes the recording of BY MYSELF:The Songs Of Judy Garland in New York City. Complete with interviews from Leslie Bricusse, Ian Ralfini, Ettore Stratta and Linda herself, the video takes you to the photo shoot for the album and as close to the making of this special recording as anyone can get!

New Animal Planet Special, TRAIL MIX, to feature Rob Thomas, Leann Rimes, and Joe Perry

-- Two-hour special highlights top singers and their bond with horses --

Silver Spring, Md. — Animal Planet today announced the initial singer line-up for its new special, Trail MIX, which premieres Sunday, January 29, 2006; 8 — 10 PM (ET/PT). The eclectic mix of top performing musical artists featured include former Matchbox Twenty front-man and now solo recording artist Rob Thomas; two-time Grammy winner and cross-over country music sweetheart LeAnn Rimes; solo recording artist and legendary lead guitarist of the rock super band, Aerosmith, Joe Perry; Grammy winner and country music singer/song-writer Mary Chapin Carpenter; and world-renowned Irish tenor Ronan Tynan. Two additional singers will be named at a later date. The program is hosted by concert and recording artist and Broadway sensation, Linda Eder, who is also co-creator and co-executive producer. Eder's latest album, "By Myself: The Songs of Judy Garland," was released on October 4.

LindaShot in high definition, Trail MIX highlights the special bond that some of today's top musicians have with horses. Host Linda Eder, a passionate equestrian and singer herself, goes on location with each artist and presents fascinating stories about the emotional connection between the musicians and their horses. From rock stars to pop singers to opera virtuosos, these world famous artists reveal a rarely seen side as they talk about their passion, explain how horses rejuvenate their art and share their most compelling stories about the horses they have known. Each interview culminates in a one-of-a-kind music video featuring a montage of exclusive footage and outtakes of the singers and their horses.

Trail MIX is directed by Brian Lockwood. Among his credits, Lockwood has directed concerts and music videos for popular artists including Linkin Park, Elton John, Dave Matthews Band, Eric Clapton and Papa Roach. Doug Wilson, former executive producer of Politically Incorrect and various programs for VH-1, will produce. For Animal Planet, Jamie Roberts and Maureen Smith are executive producers.

Animal Planet, available in more than 87 million homes nationwide, is the only television network dedicated exclusively to the connection between humans and animals. The network's original programming brings together people of all ages by tapping into a fundamental fascination with animals and providing an entertaining mix of programming, including original movies, adventure series, sports, drama and sitcoms. Discovery Networks, U.S., a unit of Discovery Communications, Inc., operates and manages Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Travel Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery HD Theater, Discovery Kids Channel, Discovery Times Channel, The Science Channel, Discovery Home Channel, The Military Channel, Discovery en Espaol and FitTV. The unit also distributes BBC AMERICA.

By Myself Special Issue of the Voice

Linda is the first one to say that she doesn't do it BY HERSELF! In this special edition of THE VOICE, read all about BY MYSELF collaborators Ian Ralfini (Executive Producer and GM of the record label); world-renowned Producer, Conductor, Arranger, Storyteller and more, Ettore Stratta (Producer); Writer, Lyricist and Dear Friend, Jack Murphy; Garland Expert John Fricke; Songwriter, Author and former Garland beau, John Meyer; plus photos, trivia, detailed song-by-song information and even comments from friends of Linda's on this historic recording!

This issue also features an interview with Bandmember Dan Levine; a special section on the PETER PAN recording (including exclusive interviews!); information on Pets Alive and for the first time, a written documentation of the 'quarters story" that started it all!

And there's more... exclusive interviews by THE VOICE Eder-tors with Michael Feinstein and Keith Lockhart including lots of photos and background on Linda's new shows with two of her favorite guys to perform with.

We'll also see the winners of the last VOICE contest (decorating cars ? the Linda way) and read about the new contest! And, as always, our favorite sections: Linda's Letter to the fans, Fan Corner and Eder-tors? Notes!

THANK YOU to ELLEN, AMANDA and LORI for their endless dedication and tireless work on this issue and always!

New CD set for release October 4, 2005

July 17, 2005

What follows is the press information on Linda's new CD which will be distributed next week. Linda wanted you to see it HERE, first.

Thank you all for your patience and support. Stay tuned for the most updated information on Linda to be posted here, including an announcement on the "quarters" collection and the charity contribution very soon!

jill

P.S. -Don't miss the comments on the message board!

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Placed side by side, the similarities are difficult to imagine. Judy Garland, barely five feet tall, emotionally delicate, wearing tragedy like a crown. Linda Eder, 5' 10", blithely unconcerned with the folderol of fame. Yet the two have much in common. Both hail from Minnesota farm country. Both know how to pierce the deepest meaning of a song, and both sing with the purest power and clarity. For Linda, Judy has been a beacon of musical inspiration. Now she returns the favor with "By Myself: The Songs of Judy Garland (Angel)," her new Angel CD, which hits stores on October 4th. In its 11 tracks, Linda pulls off the impossible, paying tribute to her idol while making the timeless Garland songs her own.

Produced by composer/conductor Ettore Stratta and executive produced by Ian Ralfini, the CD pairs Linda with some of the most iconic songs in the American songbook. Says the singer, "Judy was my first big musical influence. I always felt a connection to her. She was all about the goose bump factor." As always, Linda assembled a peerless team of musicians, with the London Symphony Orchestra backing her on most tracks. Studio legend Frank Filipetti recorded Linda's vocals, while Kim Scharnberg, Byron Olson and Jeremy Roberts shared orchestration duties. They'd have to be the best in the business to keep up with Linda Eder. "I'm not easy to record," she says, "because I have a loud voice. I've blown up a few microphones."

To prepare, Linda closely studied Judy's many films and recordings. Her aim was not to mimic the Garland style, but rather to capture the contrasting strength and fragility of Judy's voice. "It was all through osmosis," notes Linda." I've been through a lot in the last few years, which has added new layers to my life. No one escapes the lows, and Judy's were extreme, but you felt you knew her."

The CD kicks off dramatically enough with "By Myself," a song from Judy's 1963 film, "I Could Go On Singing." It's not only classic Judy, but also classic Linda: a swingin' dialog between singer and orchestra; rising tension and a big finish, with Linda sustaining the final note a full eight bars. Judy loved to sing medleys, and Linda picks up one of her best with Lerner & Lowe's "Almost Like Being in Love" and Rodgers and Hart's "This Can't Be Love." Next, "Me and My Shadow," blessed with an evocative arrangement by Byron Olson and Linda's introspective performance.

"I'd Like to Hate Myself in the Morning" is by John Meyer, a songwriter who befriended Garland near the end of her life. The singer died before getting to record the song, but did perform it on "The Merv Griffin Show" in December 1968. The 1938 Kurt Weill ballad "It Never Was You," also from "I Could Go On Singing, is performed by Linda with heartbreaking tenderness. "Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart/The Trolley Song" is another great Garland medley, the first song from the early Garland film "Listen Darling" (1938), the latter a Best Song Oscar nominee from "Meet Me In St. Louis" (1944).

"The Rainbow's End," the only original tune on the CD, is a newly written song by Linda's frequent collaborator Jack Murphy. It not only captures Judy's essence in its lyrics, but sounds remarkably like a classic torch song from the '40s."The Boy Next Door/You Made Me Love You" are two ballads made famous in "Meet Me in St. Louis" and "Broadway Melody of 1938" respectively, and thoroughly given their due by Linda in this medley.

As Linda writes in her liner notes, George Gershwin's "Do It Again" appealed to her for having a lyric that "keeps its clothes on and is far more effective for it." One of Judy Garland's best-known songs, "Rock-a-Bye Your Baby with a Dixie Melody," made famous by Al Jolson, became a Garland staple when she recorded it in 1958. Linda saves the best for last, Judy's signature "Over the Rainbow," singing in a prayerful near-whisper. It's never easy to take on a song so closely linked with one artist, but Linda Eder has never been intimidated by a musical challenge.

She was born in Brainerd, Minn. (not far from Judy Garland's hometown of Grand Rapids). Her immigrant parents exposed Linda to all kinds of music, pop and classical, but three singers influenced her more than any others. "From the time I was a kid," she says," my 'teachers' were Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand and [classical/jazz soprano] Eileen Farrell."

She spent much of her 20's perfecting her vocals and stage presence. "I did Harrah's, opening for other singers in lounges," she recalls. "I was doing four shows a night, but things evolved when I started doing my own songs. There was no template and I was free to sing what I wanted." Her big break came in 1988 on the TV show "Star Search," where she reigned a record 13 weeks. That led to a lead role in the 1990 Broadway-bound musical "Jekyll & Hyde,"

Linda recorded seven Atlantic and Angel albums between 1994 and 2004, each a blend of standards, pop hits and originals, and each showcasing Linda's extravagant vocal gifts. Over the years, passionate fans across the country packed concert halls, including New York's Carnegie Hall. Among her many milestones, Linda's been profiled by the Bravo Network, had a solo concert run at Broadway's Gershwin Theater, and performed the track "Gold" to which Kristi Yamaguchi skated to during the Opening Ceremony at the 2002 Winter Olympics.

After several years of marriage and raising son Jake (now 6), Linda and composer Frank Wildhorn recently parted ways. Though divorce is never easy, in many ways Linda feels better than ever. "This is a whole new life for me," she says. "I'm back in control of my destiny, which feels good. If I may borrow the words of my late friend, Carl Anderson, I like to drive my own bus."

Aside from music and motherhood, Linda has a lifelong love of animals. She's taking it a step further with "Trail MIX," a new primetime television special she created and is hosting for Animal Planet. The show, Trail MIX, teams host Linda with other celebrities who share her passion for horses. "I can sit all day long with another horse person," she says. "For me, this is pure fun."

After the release of "By Myself," Linda hits the road this fall for a string of concerts across the country and, for the first time in her career, Europe. It will be an all-Judy Garland show, sure to thrill Eder and Garland fans alike. Linda lays claim to an enormous following around the world, ironic given the title of the new CD. "I am not at all by myself," she says. "I have had a lot of great people helping me and Judy on my shoulder."

For Linda Eder, the rainbow never ends.

Winter 2005 edition of THE VOICE

The Winter 2005 Edition of THE VOICE is here, so get ready for some great reading! In addition to her eagerly anticipated letter, this edition contains an interview with Linda about her Star Search days. Also look for a special surprise on the Linda artwork page. Other exciting features you'll find include: interviews with Jill Siegel and Barry Danielian, a recap of The Palace shows and a history of the theatre, a fan journey to Ederville, and much, much more! Happy Reading!

Linda kicks off TRAIL MIX in Manhattan

April 7, 2005

Linda EderOn Thursday, April 7th, in New York City, nearly 700 of the most powerful and influential people in television advertising and media were treated to a surprise performance by Linda Eder during the Discovery Network's presentation of their 2005-2006 season programming. Linda performed during the Animal Planet portion of the event where "Trail MIX" - her new primetime special for the network - was officially announced. Although Linda's "Trail MIX" special will involve music and an original song, those things arestill in the works. So, Animal Planet had another song in mind.

After showing clips of upcoming shows featuring everything from adorable chimps to precious puppies, Linda's introduction included the following: "Those animals are pretty cute. But some animals have a face that only a mother could love. We believe that those less fortunate creatures deserve equal time - supported by a voice that makes everything seem beautiful. We're fortunate to have just that kind of rare talent as the host of Animal Planet's new primetime special, "Trail MIX", where some of the top singers in the world will reveal their passion for horses. But today, she's here to support the underdogs..... Please welcome, Ms. Linda Eder."

There were notable gasps of delight from many in the crowd when her name was announced and soon the entire audience was enthralled and cheering as images of some of the most unusual and unattractive creatures in the animal kingdom flashed on screen while Linda reminded them to take pride in themselves with a rousing rendition of "I am What I Am". The audience went wild (quite appropriate for an Animal Planet event!).

Singers, Horses & Music combine in Animal Planet's Trail Mix

April 7, 2005

-- Animal Planet Announces Hi-Def Special to Include Today's Popular Music Artists.

Animal PlanetThundering hoofs, the glory of nature, and riding "as one" with a favorite horse. For many of today's top musicians, there's no better muse. Animal Planet has announced the production of a new special, TRAIL MIX, slated to air in 2006, about the attraction and connection some of today's most popular musical artists have with horses and how creativity, joy and inspiration spring forth from this relationship.

At the heart of this special is concert and recording artist, Broadway sensation, and passionate equestrian Linda Eder, who will set out on a world-wide journey to interview popular contemporary singers who have compelling stories to tell about the impact horses have on their lives and careers. At the end of each interview will be a special music video featuring the artist and his or her horse.

"I've always been blown away by Linda's amazing talent as a performer and I am thrilled to have her bring that talent, her engaging personality, and her lifelong passion for horses to Animal Planet in TRAIL MIX," said Maureen Smith, executive vice president and general manager, Animal Planet. "We are embracing contemporary music as an important element in everything we do at Animal Planet and TRAIL MIX is a perfect vehicle to showcase that commitment while also presenting fascinating stories about the emotional connection between these musicians and their horses."

From rock stars to pop singers to opera virtuosos, featured artists will talk about their passion, explain how horses rejuvenate their art and share their most compelling stories about the horses they have known, to reveal surprising details about their own personal lives. Specific artists participating in TRAIL MIX are to be announced.

Host and acclaimed singer Linda Eder said, "As a long time fan of Animal Planet, it's a dream come true for me to branch out into television with a special that combines two of my greatest passions, horses and music."

Animal Planet has signed Brian Lockwood to direct TRAIL MIX. Among his credits, Lockwood has directed concerts and music videos for popular artists including Linkin Park, Elton John, Dave Matthews Band, Eric Clapton and Papa Roach. Doug Wilson, former executive producer of Politically Incorrect and various programs for VH-1, will produce.

TRAIL MIX is being produced for Animal Planet by Discovery Productions and is being produced in Hi-Definition format. Jamie Roberts is executive producer for Animal Planet.

Linda Eder's first true national exposure was via "Star Search," where she had an unprecedented 13-weeks of success. She created the leading role of Lucy in "Jekyll & Hyde," which went on a 35-city tour before opening on Broadway - where she earned the Theatre World Award for Best Broadway Debut as well as the Drama Desk and Outer Critics' Circle Award Nominations for Best Actress in a Musical. Her seven solo albums, concert DVD, and sold-out live performances have consistently won Linda critical and popular accolades. Linda's new album hits stores this September.

Animal Planet, available in more than 86 million homes nationwide, is the only television network dedicated exclusively to the connection between humans and animals. The network's original programming brings together people of all ages by tapping into a fundamental fascination with animals and providing an entertaining mix of programming including original movies, adventure series, sports, drama and sitcoms. Discovery Networks, U.S., a unit of Discovery Communications, Inc., operates and manages Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Travel Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery HD Theater, Discovery Kids Channel, Discovery Times Channel, The Science Channel, Discovery Home Channel, The Military Channel, Discovery en Español and FitTV. The unit also distributes BBC AMERICA.

To download photos of TRAIL MIX, Go to www.press.discovery.com; Click U.S. Networks; Click Animal Planet; Click Photography & Artwork

Dogs on the "Cat Walk!"

Maureen Smith from ANIMAL PLANET and Linda with her beautiful Shepherd at a NYC launching party for Animal Planet. Camille strutted the runway like a pro.

Linda & Maureen SmithOne of the most exciting new developments in my life has been my friendship with Maureen Smith, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Animal Planet.

We met shortly before she took over that position, and I was thrilled when she got it because I have been an avid watcher of the channel. Maureen is young and energetic, very creative and smart, and has already spearheaded great new programs coming soon to the network.

When she learned of my love of horses she suggested that I might be able to help her come up with a horse related show that would appeal to a broad range of people.

I learned that it is a challenge to hold a general viewing audience for an hour-long show about horses.

Okay, so not everyone is as enamored of these amazing creatures as I am. I could watch a fifteen-hour documentary on Mr. Ed! Well, Maureen gave me a fun challenge. I was surprised and delighted to find that she and her team at Animal Planet actually embraced my ideas.

So now it looks good that Maureen and I will be working together on something that I think you will enjoy whether you are into horses or not. It will be a new, fun ride for me and I'm really looking forward to this adventure.

I've also been involved in a few other Animal Planet events (including their dog fashion show and party in New York City where I walked the "dog" walk with my German Shepherd, Camille) and there are more in the works. I'll keep you posted here on this site.

The best partof all of this is that she truly has become a friend. She is a Mom first and foremost and the love of our sons is the greatest thing we share. Jake adores her and calls her Maureen "Smiff." We wouldn't dream of correcting him!

-Linda

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