Recognize this celebrity? Do you remember watching him weekly on television, performing amazing athletic maneuvers? Of course…it’s JOE MONTANA! The greatest quarterback of all time!
Why do we have this casual photo? How did it come about that we were in a position to capture this moment? We were invited guests to an event…and I took the picture!!
Once upon a time….many years ago…we attended a concert. It was December 12, 1981 and “Journey” was at the Cow Palace. Our neighbors in Rodeo happened to be lead guitar player, Neil Shaun’s parents, Barbara and Les. They invited us to the concert, which was terrific…and after that, we went with them to a backstage party. Yes, it truly did happen! We were in awe - we still remember some of the details – the whole evening was amazing. But…we do have this photo to substantiate the fact that we were there!
Many big name stars were at the party – team mates, coaches, "Loverboy" and "Journey" band members, former "Santana" members, and more. They were friendly and outgoing and relaxed. We were having so much fun! And, over at a corner table, sat JOE MONTANA. We whispered and stared and finally I got up the nerve and walked over and asked if I could take his picture…he said “Sure” – and I did, and here it is! And I even said, "You'd better win"!
Now, here are some statistics. The "Journey" concert was on the night of December 12, 1981 and Montana was very friendly…and had already reached super status He and the 49ers were on a winning streak and went on to win the Division on January 3 and then the Conference on January 10. January 24 was the date of the Super Bowl game and it was Montana’s first Super Bowl. The 49ers played the Cinncinnati Bengals – and they won 26-21. Yes, the same Bengals that are scheduled to play on February 13th…against the Rams.
It’s a fine memento of a time gone by. Montana continues to be defined by his excellent quarter-backing abilities…the best quarterback in history! "Journey" continues to perform concerts and is definitely worthy of audience attendance. Les and Barb moved away and we see them occasionally…and well, Sep and I continue on, primarily defined these days as California Sportsmen Radio. Time does go on…and this is a fine memory!
…..maybe next time I’ll tell you about having lunch with Journey’s lead singer, Steve Perry!!