Just arrived home from seeing Ronnie and his art at The Butler Institute of American Art. Yes, he was there. I have been to many, many "formal" parties, receptions, etc. etc. but I must say this one was probably the bread winner. By bread I mean "money".

Ok Ok as for Ronnie. at about 8:15 pm they stopped the small music ensomble and agave a breif announcment announcing him. He came down the steps right in front of me and there was a large crowd.

He only spoke in front of the microphone for maybe 1 minute. that's right ....sixty seconds. Maybe two minutes at very most Thanking the Butler and all of us.

He turned around and two folks stopped him right in front of me as numerous flashed went off and everyone was calling to him.

I heard his entire convo. to these guys. He was telling them he lost 10,000 pounds over something and he was saying what a "drag" it was. I was not sure what instance he was talking about but at first he didn't recognize the guys. Then he did and as they brought up a certain situation he spoke. He was by far the most "care free" person in the place. There were plenty of people as well. Line outside and everything. He was just say 8 feet from me during this conversation.

I can say he was the loudest guy in this place. He was "real" and spoke like you would see him in a movie all layed back, cool and laughing loud and incredibly animated putting his arm around these guys kinda. But none of it was an act. Just like you see him he is truly a fun guy. That is the best way to describe him. He would be "fun" to know. The great guy, hyper guy at the party everyone loves. He exudes that. He spoke to these guys as the crowd covered him for maybe two more minutes. He would say hi and talk to anyone you could see but his handlers didn't want him goin around the place.

They took him directly up the steps and into a sealed room where security would not let anyone pass. At first they said he had already left but I and a few others knew better. He then was whisked out the back steps to his ride after about another hour.

The only reason I saw that was because Me and a few other diligently waited for him. He was gone.

There was no meet and greet ...no nothing. I was really disappointed. I paid two hundred bucks and I thought we would get a chance to speak to him for maybe thirsty seconds but nobody did. Nope. He could of came out for autographs for five minutes or something but his people, and The Butler were not having that.

Saw his Art. It is very well done. Some even has gold chips in it.

One thing that came to mind at the event was "money" and stardom. It was all around the place. Was evident he is very, very looked after and has such stauts. I knew he was a Roling Stone and all but it was of more magnitude than I anticipated. He was only in view for maybe three friggin minutes and that was it. He was kept behind closed doors. The girl I was with had her 21st birthday tonight. Her parents bought her the ticket for her birthday. Another girl I was with spoke to his manager luckily. His manager is a woman. She begged her manger to get one hello and one conversation bc it was her birthday and all the manager promised is that she would try...

Naturally nothing.

Anyway I am glad I went. Was something to see the star power and stature that close up. Ronnie Wood is "exactly" in person as you would see him on video bouncin happily and talking far out in a sense to fellow Stones. He is somethin eles bc it's all real. Art was really good too.

*I am attaching a pic of him speaking and where I was.  The guy on the right in this photo, in the tan shirt, was one of the guys that had that conversation with him. As you can see that gentlemen, at this time was maybe two feet from me. Then the guys went up to him about another 5 feet as soon as he finished speaking so this is why the actual conversation with Ronnie took place about 8 feet from me. I heard everything he said but not them.

---

Thanks for sharing...I guess, it's getting to the point where each message is weirder than the previous one, no wonder they whisked him away !

gotdablouse wrote on Sep 21^st, 2010 at 11:11pm:

Thanks for sharing...I guess, it's getting to the point where each message is weirder than the previous one, no wonder they whisked him away !

__________________________

The two gentleman brought up an instance of something they had been a part of with him but I am not sure they knew him or he knew them directly. They "may of" just had the situation in common. they were some where together at one time.

Ronnie didn't like wherever they were talking about and says how he lost 10,000 pounds in the situation. I could hear it as plain as day ... anyone could he speaks so loudly.  
The gentleman also acknowledged and knew the situation they spoke of sucked ... but it was all they could find in common to talk to him about.

Ronnie was not whisked away for being so loud and carefree with his conversation. It was time to go ...he went up the steps bc Museum staff and security didn't want him hanging about or out in the public long at all.

Ronnie would talk and put his arm around you, or anyone who wanted to talk as he did with these guys. He's that cool, realistic. ..and is nothing fake.

*He even gave me a look and an open body gesture as in "he'll yeah lets have fun and talk" should I approach him. I thought I was going to talk to him next up!. However I didn't know they were going to immediately be taking him right back up the steps and out of sight. I didn't want to be rude and intrude on his conversation while he was talking to the guys so I was simply waiting my turn. Never got that turn bc he was gone right after the convo. As you could see I was right behind him on the balcony....closer than much of the press and he came right toward us after speaking. No fear.

The girl I was with knows the librarian at the Butler who had lunch with Ronnie in Cleveland today, as did a few other members of the butler because she is especially "in" with the director of the museum who I also know. Dr. Zona

She said Ronnie Wood is the nicest guy in the world.

Ian

Here is one I snuck up close to..

---

sounds like a complete rip-off.
sorry you were taken in.

Ade wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2010 at 2:41am:

sounds like a complete rip-off. sorry you were taken in.

___________________________

I did not expect for Ronnie to go around and you know talk with everyone.  I know they couldn't of had him sitting there at the door greeting all folks. It's Ronnie Wood... Not a "has been" still trying to hold on to some stardom. Not some author of a book that has the time and the management that will allow him to hang out and sign peoples shirts and copies of the book.  ....I realize this guy is a Rolling Stone. Very viable (and very elusive due to his people).


However, you know ...I thought maybe on his way out to the car he could of stopped for three minutes. We all paid a few hundred bucks to see him and it was not open to the general public so I figured we could get a "chance" at sayin hello that way possibly.

I know nothings "set in stone" (pun ha ha)  but a "chance" some way. He was kept out of sight and untouchable. They did not even want you seeing him after he came out and spoke.  he slipped out very very fast with people covering and keeping others away from him. They did not even want you to know he was still there. I was initially told by someone guarding the very door he had left. For the most part you were not even allowed in the hallway were he was going to be traveling to eventually go out the side door. They were standing guard there.



Well guess not he he. Regardless, it was an experience. By the way another thing that really had me take notice was The pics of his art online do not do it justice. In person it is more professional looking, and has a very signature style when you see it right there in front of you.

*I used to think he was certainly given a bit of added prestige to his art work because he also is a Rolling Stone. However seeing it in person, it can stand on it's own. It has something special and is very ... i don't know how to say it but "professional" yet almost messy and quite artsy all at the same time. It definitely has something.

One last note, when Ronnie was present the air was "electric". A few people mentioned the star magnetism he exuded created an electric like atmosphere while he was present. Was hard to explain. You just had to be there in his presence to know. It was exciting. You would think Jagger or Keith would have all that magnetism to capture the whole place but he does as well. I saw it first hand. Even when he's right in front of you you know he's one of a kind just by what he emits ....yet at the same time hes very cool and a fun guy to be around. But darn, he is so loud lol


Ian

"Not a "has been" still trying to hold on to some stardom"

I'm sorry Ian, but that's exactly what he is.

Clearly Mr Wood has delusions of grandeur and has taken to thinking he is the Prime Minister or President of a nation, as opposed to a guitar player in a washed-up rock band.

Laughingly pathetic, sad and depressing in equal measure.

Ian - you, and everyone else there, were shafted. Pure and simple.

It was a 'Meet & Greet'. That description - and the price - makes it perfectly reasonable to assume you would have been able to meet him.

This thing cost, what $200 a ticket? Thats more than the average Stones concert ticket. No one who pays a lot of money for something wants to admit that they were duped, but thats precisely what happened.

So, $200 just to be in the same room as Ronnie Wood for two minutes and look at a few paintings afterwards?

You said you were glad you went, but just being around a celebrity for a couple of minutes surely isnt worth that esepcially when you were promised something more - you're also admitting that you were very disappointed, which says it all. Suspend the starstuck thing for a minute and see the reality here.

Appreciate you sharing the story and photos with us, but its quite evident that Ronnie has serious delusions of grandeur and is developing a shocking level of contempt towards whats left of his fanbase.


Trainarollin' posted this review on IORR :
About 200 people paid $150 - $200 to attend a "Meet & Greet Reception" for Ronnie Wood at the Butler Insitute of American Art in Youngstown, Ohio. It was from 8pm - 10pm. Ronnie appeared in public around 8:15..spoke for about a minute, talked to a couple people standing behind him...and left. Where did he go? Seems like he hid in a room for about an hour before slipping out.

You should be demanding a refund or getting the payment charged back on your credit card if thats how you paid for it.  I'm serious. If these people keep thinking they can get away with scams like this, they'll be shafting fans all the time.

I used to think Ronnie was the most down to earth member of the Stones, but some of his money-grabbing antics lately (asking $25,000 to attend an exhibition and be in his company for dinner afterwards, elitist ticket prices designed to discourage fans from attending his solo gig and this latest rip off) are fucking repulsive.

How much lower can he stoop?

Mick and Keith busy writing, unable to attend...

for two hundred i would have expected to have been provided with an "escort"

Didn't realize it was a "meet and greet", so yes, total rip-off! If he'd wanted to he could well have told his "minders" to leave him in the main room. Maybe his "encounter" with these two guys talking about money made him upset or worried, either way it's a shame.

Reminds me of that story in Bill German's book when Ronnie hosted that event in NYC for which Bill printed programs and ran out of things to say after a minute or two and then got evryone annoyed.

mojoman wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2010 at 8:41am:

for two hundred i would have expected to have been provided with an "escort"

http://themomblog.ocregister.com/files/2010/06/girl-in-caddy-shack.jpg

This surprises me, actually. I too, had him pinned as a down-to-earth people's-person who'd happily mingle with those who paid such high prices. Obviously not, then.  

Ronnie is no big draw. He appeared on the One Show for Christ’s sake. Imagine Mick or Keith doing that?

Some Guy wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2010 at 11:25am:

mojoman wrote on Sep 22nd, 2010 at 8:41am: for two hundred i would have expected to have been provided with an "escort" http://themomblog.ocregister.com/files/2010/06/girl-in-caddy-shack.jpg

?

---

"It's no big deal"

And what was Luke Wilson doing at the event?

http://www.buzzfoto.com/photos/0707-July-2007/070708CXF_LukeWilson.jpg??!!

[quote author=mojoman link=1285127593/0#9 date=1285162899]for two hundred i would have expected to have been provided with an "escort"

[/quote

Well Ian and the rest did get fucked..........

gimmekeef wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2010 at 1:11pm:

[quote author=mojoman link=1285127593/0#9 date=1285162899]for two hundred i would have expected to have been provided with an "escort" [/quote Well Ian and the rest did get fucked..........

RIM!!!

Sorry it wasn't what you and the other patrons expected, Ian.

Seems like Butler and Ronnie both have some splainin' to do.
$200 should've gotten you a whole lot more than a shot of the back of his head, imo...

This article - Rolling Stone gathers crowd - says Ronnie's assistant expressed security concerns.

::)

Boys and Girls. Your very right. Something was not sitting well with me as I typed what happend last night.

All I needed was someone to say hey bro ....you were ripped. Kinda like a real good friend finally tellin you finally .... "bro ...that chics no good". Some times you just gotta hear it. I TOTALY overlooked the fact that I could go see the paintings... scott free. they are still there.

The invitation's title on the outside I received was "Meet Ronnie Wood". The RSVP said ...."Spend an evening with Ronnie Wood". It did not say meet and "greet" as well but wtf.... ????

They gave NOTHING away for free. No program ... no nothing. I paid S200.00 for a 60 second fuckin speech?

TO ANSWER/ADDRESS A FEW QUESTIONS:

1. The bit about there were security concerns is bull shit. It was extremely organized. There was plenty of security all around. No rowdy people (at 200.00 bucks a pop riff raff was totally non-existent). There was not one person shady anywhere in sight. Most were in gowns and suits. All high class distinguished folks and many older people. That is an excuse. Anyone who was there would tell you that. The Press pursued him after the speech. All the guests gave him plenty of space and was letttin it all happen accordingly.

2. The situation that was brought up to ronnie by those two guys did not worry him at all. He was just agreeing, laughing, bouncin about and being Ronnie. The people who took him upstairs said ..."were gonna take him upstairs now" ....it was not Ronnie doing.

3. I don't think it was Ronnie (it was surely his management and the Butler). Ronnie himself, would of bounced around all night. He was just doing what his keepers and Security wanted. Wasn't him. He was happy and excited to be there showing his art and all. I seen him face to face and could tell that much. He even notioned to me as in "hell yeah hey whats up"... he wanted to talk and was open to have fun with us. I know it cause I seen it go down in front of my face. By saying "have fun" I don't mean to sound silly or immature but that was his whole friggin vibe man. Even if I did not know who he was or he was not famous that is all that he exuded..let's have fun, laugh and shoot the shit. This is why I state it as such.

Last:

I AM going to get my money back. What a crock. Will email the Butler tonight (I know the PR director).

Oh and by the way everyone I spoke to said it was Bull and to try and get my money back so your not alone.


Ian

Ian Billen wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2010 at 9:20pm:

Boys and Girls. Your very right. Something was not sitting well with me as I typed what happend last night. All I needed was someone to say hey bro ....you were ripped. Kinda like a real good friend finally tellin you finally .... "bro ...that chics no good". Some times you just gotta hear it. I TOTALY overlooked the fact that I could go see the paintings... scott free. they are still there. The invitation's title on the outside I received was "Meet Ronnie Wood". The RSVP said ...."Spend an evening with Ronnie Wood". It did not say meet and "greet" as well but wtf.... ???? They gave NOTHING away for free. No program ... no nothing. I paid S200.00 for a 60 second fuckin speech? TO ANSWER/ADDRESS A FEW QUESTIONS: 1. The bit about there were security concerns is bull shit. It was extremely organized. There was plenty of security all around. No rowdy people (at 200.00 bucks a pop riff raff was totally non-existent). There was not one person shady anywhere in sight. Most were in gowns and suits. All high class distinguished folks and many older people. That is an excuse. Anyone who was there would tell you that. The Press pursued him after the speech. All the guests gave him plenty of space and was letttin it all happen accordingly. 2. The situation that was brought up to ronnie by those two guys did not worry him at all. He was just agreeing, laughing, bouncin about and being Ronnie. The people who took him upstairs said ..."were gonna take him upstairs now" ....it was not Ronnie doing. 3. I don't think it was Ronnie (it was surely his management and the Butler). Ronnie himself, would of bounced around all night. He was just doing what his keepers and Security wanted. Wasn't him. He was happy and excited to be there showing his art and all. I seen him face to face and could tell that much. He even notioned to me as in "hell yeah hey whats up"... he wanted to talk and was open to have fun with us. I know it cause I seen it go down in front of my face. By saying "have fun" I don't mean to sound silly or immature but that was his whole friggin vibe man. Even if I did not know who he was or he was not famous that is all that he exuded..let's have fun, laugh and shoot the shit. This is why I state it as such. Last: I AM going to get my money back. What a crock. Will email the Butler tonight (I know the PR director). Oh and by the way everyone I spoke to said it was Bull and to try and get my money back so your not alone. Ian

Good luck Ian. I'm sure Ronnie probably meant well. But doesn't have the intestinal fortitude.(aka balls) to take matters into his own hands. He's certainly not alone in this. Most celebs would rather be lead around by the nose than make their own decsions.

sweetcharmedlife wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2010 at 10:12pm:

Ian Billen wrote on Sep 22nd, 2010 at 9:20pm: Boys and Girls. Your very right. Something was not sitting well with me as I typed what happend last night. All I needed was someone to say hey bro ....you were ripped. Kinda like a real good friend finally tellin you finally .... "bro ...that chics no good". Some times you just gotta hear it. I TOTALY overlooked the fact that I could go see the paintings... scott free. they are still there. The invitation's title on the outside I received was "Meet Ronnie Wood". The RSVP said ...."Spend an evening with Ronnie Wood". It did not say meet and "greet" as well but wtf.... ???? They gave NOTHING away for free. No program ... no nothing. I paid S200.00 for a 60 second fuckin speech? TO ANSWER/ADDRESS A FEW QUESTIONS: 1. The bit about there were security concerns is bull shit. It was extremely organized. There was plenty of security all around. No rowdy people (at 200.00 bucks a pop riff raff was totally non-existent). There was not one person shady anywhere in sight. Most were in gowns and suits. All high class distinguished folks and many older people. That is an excuse. Anyone who was there would tell you that. The Press pursued him after the speech. All the guests gave him plenty of space and was letttin it all happen accordingly. 2. The situation that was brought up to ronnie by those two guys did not worry him at all. He was just agreeing, laughing, bouncin about and being Ronnie. The people who took him upstairs said ..."were gonna take him upstairs now" ....it was not Ronnie doing. 3. I don't think it was Ronnie (it was surely his management and the Butler). Ronnie himself, would of bounced around all night. He was just doing what his keepers and Security wanted. Wasn't him. He was happy and excited to be there showing his art and all. I seen him face to face and could tell that much. He even notioned to me as in "hell yeah hey whats up"... he wanted to talk and was open to have fun with us. I know it cause I seen it go down in front of my face. By saying "have fun" I don't mean to sound silly or immature but that was his whole friggin vibe man. Even if I did not know who he was or he was not famous that is all that he exuded..let's have fun, laugh and shoot the shit. This is why I state it as such. Last: I AM going to get my money back. What a crock. Will email the Butler tonight (I know the PR director). Oh and by the way everyone I spoke to said it was Bull and to try and get my money back so your not alone. Ian Good luck Ian. I'm sure Ronnie probably meant well. But doesn't have the intestinal fortitude.(aka balls) to take matters into his own hands. He's certainly not alone in this. Most celebs would rather be lead around by the nose than make their own decsions.

___________________

Yeah. I would certainly "say" if Ronnie wasn't up to it but he would of been. The people handling it were definitely not.

They could of let him come out again for 15 minutes to say hi and talk to some people. There was plenty of security to keep anything from getting out of hand. I am trying to get my money back now.

What a load. Three minutes to just "see" the guy for two hundred bucks a pop is a crock. Especially since it was "touted" as a "Meet Ronnie Wood" affair.

Screw that.


Ian

Ade wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2010 at 5:22am:

"Not a "has been" still trying to hold on to some stardom" I'm sorry Ian, but that's exactly what he is. Clearly Mr Wood has delusions of grandeur and has taken to thinking he is the Prime Minister or President of a nation, as opposed to a guitar player in a washed-up rock band. Laughingly pathetic, sad and depressing in equal measure.

________________________

Ade. Come on now... a u being serious here? Maybe not. Listen I am not going to put my chest out for Ronnie simply because I went to see his art (especially in how disapointed I am in how we never got a chance to say hi) but Ronnie is "washed up" and The Stones "washed up"?

Ade, they are still the biggest, richest, most sought after Rock and Roll band on the planet with by far the most industry pull. It is a far cry from being washed up.

As for Ronnie ... it really wasn't his doing that I could see. Ronnie is like a little kid in a Candy Store. Seriously. He is that full of life.

Ian

With all this hyper activity he has going on with the Faces, his own album, appearances like this, and his radio show, makes me guess that he has serious money problems. he may be the most down to earth one, but it just looks like he has big problems and he has to make as much as possible to keep up his lifestyle so that young girls will still go out with him. It's almost sad and tragic watching it, but then I think about what he did to Jo and if it's true, it is what he deserves.

If thats the case, I fail to have any sympathy for someone who has been handed the greatest meal ticket in the entertainment industry, been a major part of a corporation which grosses half a billion dollars in two years when it decides to work - and who still, time and time again, apparently manages to blow every opportunity given to him on a plate to stay filthy rich.

Especially when that vast income is generated on the backs of willing and gullible fans who pay vast sums of their hard earned cash for the privilege of seeing or hearing him.

His apparent inability to get himself organised or find someone to manage his affairs in a professional manner is his problem. No one else's. And there's no excuse for gouging or cheating the public.

Good on you, Ian, for making sure you get your money back. Hopefully everyone else in the same position will do the same and whoever is responsible for this fiasco will get a reality check and see that it's something that can't be repeated.

Don't Fuck With The Billens!

Maybe Ronnie will re-design the sleeve of his new album in t-shirt form to commemorate this week's art exhibit rip off and fanasylum ticket price double whammy and call it   "I Don't Feel Like Paying".....  :aimama

Gazza wrote on Sep 23^rd, 2010 at 6:35am:

If thats the case, I fail to have any sympathy for someone who has been handed the greatest meal ticket in the entertainment industry, been a major part of a corporation which grosses half a billion dollars in two years when it decides to work - and who still, time and time again, apparently manages to blow every opportunity given to him on a plate to stay filthy rich.

Oh it's absolutely no one's fault but his own. This is a guy who, because of his long suffering wife, managed to probably stay alive and functioning all these years who comes out the other day and says I split up because I was bored not being able to make decisions for myself. As if that was Jo's fault. I just think it's sad and tragic as Stones fans to see where this is leading. Despite the fact that he's a right twat for what he did, he has given Stones fans a lot of joy over the years and most people with some sense can guess where all of this will end up. Another tour, another load of cash, another drug and alcohol binge, no more money, and then all these young girls will not go near him, and the downward spiral starts again. Even considering the fame, let's be serious, who really believes that his new girlfriend would go near him without the cash being splashed around? I mean this is a guy who has not managed his money properly forever and who has lost an enormous amount of it.

All good points but don't discount the "star magnetism" that Ian, in his own special way, conveyed very well in his original post. He's been to places where few people have been and that's "special". Interestingly enough that "magnetism" is completely missing from BG's book where Ron just appears as a goofy guy.

Maybe this was Ronnie's way to make up for the 10,000 POUNDS he lost! I wonder what he lost it on this time...lawyers, legal fees, ex-wife, girlfriend, a gambling bet, or scammed into another bad investment? Ronnie has no sense of finances and therefore charging $200/ticket may seem outrageous to us, but if people are willing to pay it, than in his mind he did nothing wrong! I am upset for Ian B, he should of gotten a handshake and a picture, as RONNIE happily did at his book signing, free of charge!

gotdablouse wrote on Sep 23^rd, 2010 at 7:24pm:

All good points but don't discount the "star magnetism" that Ian, in his own special way, conveyed very well in his original post. He's been to places where few people have been and that's "special". Interestingly enough that "magnetism" is completely missing from BG's book where Ron just appears as a goofy guy.

___________________________

Yes. I have saw famous folks who had it and some did not. Some more than others. Ronnie has it. In his own, loud, happy way he has it. It was not so much all the people creating the energy, he has his own special thing goin.

We all knew it. It was apparent. He was very ready and is still talkin about being in Youngstown in interviews today. He came running down the steps like a kid in a candy store. Almost skipping down them. He was into havin fun and hangin out. His handlers did not want him to.

Ronnie was smiling ear to ear literally he was so happy. I have saw alot of footage, but Ronnie felt "special" and was happy because the Butler is no slouch of a museum. He was happy.

Ian

Ok scoop is this:

Ronnie was "bummed" out they did not let him out to talk to us. The reason was that he and his people wanted an "art" exhibition and did not want him treated like a rock star so much. I knew that and was "HOPING" it could be that way. This is why I was so excitied. I thought maybe I was possibly gonna have an actual 1 on 1 very short conversation with Woody himself. The original plan, as I am told by The Butler was to have him "mingle" or whatever and talk about his art with the people.

However he was swarmed right after the speech. I was right there in the swarm. (I wasn't swarming or tryin to get to him or anything...I was just right in the middle of it and was looking as the crowd covered him). Nobody got to darn pushy or violent or too pressy they just wanted to see Ronnie.

After being taken up in the room all was quiet because the press did not come upstairs. The reason they did not come upstairs is they must of knew he would not be available up there...

Wendi, from the Butler, supposedly went in and told him that people wanted to see him. He was bummed out and was quite willing but his management held their ground. My take is that if he was REALLY wanting to go out he would of. However I think he, and they may of feared a crowd would soon gather and eventually would be swarmed again. The thing is nobody was physically pulling at him or would not let him  go or anything. It isn't like his clothes were being ripped off. So I am still not satisfied.  


As he was leaving the Butler he went bye waived to a few people as they very quickly ushered him out the back door.  

Ronnie is a good dude. I  could see it in his face. He will talk to anyone. I am displeased and I am in contact with The Butler. They, (their PR lady) who I have been in contact with was very very sorry.

*She has had so many phone calls/complaints over this that she said she is "sick" over it. She told me to come down there next week to see if we could work something out??

Maybe they r going to try and persuade me into bein satisfied with a signed book from Ronnie or somethin but that is not flyin with me. I do not want a printed painting he signed either.

I want my money back. I do not want a book. I wanted to say hi to Ronnie personally. That's all.  I was not allowed, as nobody was, so I want a cash refund.

Simple as that-


Ian

Ian Billen wrote on Sep 23^rd, 2010 at 2:47am:

Ade. Come on now... a u being serious here? Maybe not. Listen I am not going to put my chest out for Ronnie simply because I went to see his art (especially in how disapointed I am in how we never got a chance to say hi) but Ronnie is "washed up" and The Stones "washed up"? Ade, they are still the biggest, richest, most sought after Rock and Roll band on the planet with by far the most industry pull. It is a far cry from being washed up. As for Ronnie ... it really wasn't his doing that I could see. Ronnie is like a little kid in a Candy Store. Seriously. He is that full of life. Ian

sorry Ian. I'm not interested in who's the biggest, richest or most sought after band on the planet.

I prefer bands who are  artistically creative, and who respect their fanbase, as opposed to financially assaulting them at every available opportunity.
  Give me an album, written with care, attention and from the heart,
rather than a bobble headed doll,  branded bottle of wine, or  a mask on a stick.

Ian Billen wrote on Sep 23^rd, 2010 at 10:07pm:

Ok scoop is this: Ronnie was "bummed" out they did not let him out to talk to us. The reason was that he and his people wanted an "art" exhibition and did not want him treated like a rock star so much. I knew that and was "HOPING" it could be that way. This is why I was so excitied. I thought maybe I was possibly gonna have an actual 1 on 1 very short conversation with Woody himself. The original plan, as I am told by The Butler was to have him "mingle" or whatever and talk about his art with the people. However he was swarmed right after the speech. I was right there in the swarm. (I wasn't swarming or tryin to get to him or anything...I was just right in the middle of it and was looking as the crowd covered him). Nobody got to darn pushy or violent or too pressy they just wanted to see Ronnie. After being taken up in the room all was quiet because the press did not come upstairs. The reason they did not come upstairs is they must of knew he would not be available up there... Wendi, from the Butler, supposedly went in and told him that people wanted to see him. He was bummed out and was quite willing but his management held their ground. My take is that if he was REALLY wanting to go out he would of. However I think he, and they may of feared a crowd would soon gather and eventually would be swarmed again. The thing is nobody was physically pulling at him or would not let him  go or anything. It isn't like his clothes were being ripped off. So I am still not satisfied.   As he was leaving the Butler he went bye waived to a few people as they very quickly ushered him out the back door.   Ronnie is a good dude. I  could see it in his face. He will talk to anyone. I am displeased and I am in contact with The Butler. They, (their PR lady) who I have been in contact with was very very sorry. *She has had so many phone calls/complaints over this that she said she is "sick" over it. She told me to come down there next week to see if we could work something out?? Maybe they r going to try and persuade me into bein satisfied with a signed book from Ronnie or somethin but that is not flyin with me. I do not want a printed painting he signed either. I want my money back. I do not want a book. I wanted to say hi to Ronnie personally. That's all.  I was not allowed, as nobody was, so I want a cash refund. Simple as that- Ian

Good for you Ian. Keep after them. This is how I figured it went down. Some overtight handling by Ronnie's people. But yeah he's the one with the final say. But the Butler should of organized this better. Maybe a receiving line or something like that.

I'm just thinking of how generous and approachable a rather shy Charlie was at the 100 club last year. In comparison,If it's true about the ticketing for his upcoming "gigs",Ronnie has completely lost the plot.

I have never uttered these words before...............................BRING BACK TAYLOR.

and  I mean Dick !

sc uk

sweetcharmedlife wrote on Sep 24^th, 2010 at 9:06am:

Ian Billen wrote on Sep 23rd, 2010 at 10:07pm: Ok scoop is this: Ronnie was "bummed" out they did not let him out to talk to us. The reason was that he and his people wanted an "art" exhibition and did not want him treated like a rock star so much. I knew that and was "HOPING" it could be that way. This is why I was so excitied. I thought maybe I was possibly gonna have an actual 1 on 1 very short conversation with Woody himself. The original plan, as I am told by The Butler was to have him "mingle" or whatever and talk about his art with the people. However he was swarmed right after the speech. I was right there in the swarm. (I wasn't swarming or tryin to get to him or anything...I was just right in the middle of it and was looking as the crowd covered him). Nobody got to darn pushy or violent or too pressy they just wanted to see Ronnie. After being taken up in the room all was quiet because the press did not come upstairs. The reason they did not come upstairs is they must of knew he would not be available up there... Wendi, from the Butler, supposedly went in and told him that people wanted to see him. He was bummed out and was quite willing but his management held their ground. My take is that if he was REALLY wanting to go out he would of. However I think he, and they may of feared a crowd would soon gather and eventually would be swarmed again. The thing is nobody was physically pulling at him or would not let him  go or anything. It isn't like his clothes were being ripped off. So I am still not satisfied.   As he was leaving the Butler he went bye waived to a few people as they very quickly ushered him out the back door.   Ronnie is a good dude. I  could see it in his face. He will talk to anyone. I am displeased and I am in contact with The Butler. They, (their PR lady) who I have been in contact with was very very sorry. *She has had so many phone calls/complaints over this that she said she is "sick" over it. She told me to come down there next week to see if we could work something out?? Maybe they r going to try and persuade me into bein satisfied with a signed book from Ronnie or somethin but that is not flyin with me. I do not want a printed painting he signed either. I want my money back. I do not want a book. I wanted to say hi to Ronnie personally. That's all.  I was not allowed, as nobody was, so I want a cash refund. Simple as that- Ian Good for you Ian. Keep after them. This is how I figured it went down. Some overtight handling by Ronnie's people. But yeah he's the one with the final say. But the Butler should of organized this better. Maybe a receiving line or something like that.

My sentiments exactly.  These people @ Butler appear not have have much experience in these matters.  This is not a trial run-this is the real world!

So in effect we are saying..."The Butler did it" ?

gimmekeef wrote on Sep 24^th, 2010 at 11:15am:

So in effect we are saying..."The Butler did it" ?

Yes GK. Ian got Butler'd. :retarded

sweetcharmedlife wrote on Sep 24^th, 2010 at 12:14pm:

gimmekeef wrote on Sep 24th, 2010 at 11:15am: So in effect we are saying..."The Butler did it" ? Yes GK. Ian got Butler'd. :retarded

_________________________

In my opinion the ending and final blame does go to the Butler. I realize they cannot "make" Ronnie and his people go public or talk to anyone if they don't plan on it BUT....

A: If Ronnie's people did not want a Meet and Greet and/or any press...
   -Don't tout it as such. Nobody could feel ripped off. Keep press out of the building. End of Story.
    Very simple

B. If things did start to get too pushy for Ronnie....
   -Make an announcement or tell the public to give him space.... I am sure anyone who "may" of been
    too pushy would of been more than happy to go along in order to keep Ronnie in sight and in
    availability.

Instead the evening was touted quite inaccurately. As well, they showed no sign of wanting him to come out of hiding/behind closed doors in order to keep their guests satisfied. In fact they were
pretty coy in not wanting anyone to be in contact with him outside his door.

What it boils down to is I, and everyone there paid $150.00 - $200.00 dollars to be in the same large hall with Ronnie wood for a total of three minutes...

I would NEVER of considered that. If it was $20.00...$30.00 bucks. Heck even $40.00 I would of sucked it up and said "well, what do ya want? It was opening night, and Ronnie showed."

Not TWO HUNDRED FUCKING DOLLARS for that! I am still working on getting my money back. Their PR rep is out of town but still in good contact with me via email and she has been cooperative, empathetic, and responsive. She says she cannot address this fully until she gets back to the Butler next week in which we plan to talk. This is fine, but I am not letting this go. I want reimbursed.

I know I am making a big deal about this but in essence ....they totally misrepresented, and potentially ripped three hundred people out and something needs to done.

You could say "it's over" ..."move on". But it is not over. Once I get reimbursed then it will be over, I'll be done with it, and I go on with life. Right now, there is still something that can be done to make things ok again.

If this was accidental, I would not care half as bad. If the Butler burned down before the event I would not bitch and would consider the circumstances and may be out $200.00. It wasn't all accidental. I'm sure The Butler did not "intend" on making anyone angry (I am speaking about several people) but ....nothing was done to prevent that because of failure to address issues or failure of being 100% on the level. Either way ...something has to be done to make it even is all I want and That I will get.  

What truly makes me angry is they would of just went on with life as if the event panned out beautifully for everyone if me and others didn't make a stink to them. They were ready to take the cash and run. This is what makes me angry.




Ian

straycatuk wrote on Sep 24^th, 2010 at 9:21am:

I'm just thinking of how generous and approachable a rather shy Charlie was at the 100 club last year. In comparison,If it's true about the ticketing for his upcoming "gigs",Ronnie has completely lost the plot. I have never uttered these words before...............................BRING BACK TAYLOR. and  I mean Dick ! sc uk

Ha ha! This really made me LOL.  ;D

>I know I am making a big deal about this but in essence ....they totally misrepresented, and potentially ripped three hundred people out and something needs to done.  

I dont think anyone would begrudge you making a 'big deal' of it. You're 100% justified in doing so.

>You could say "it's over" ..."move on". But it is not over. Once I get reimbursed then it will be over, I'll be done with it, and I go on with life. Right now, there is still something that can be done to make things ok again.  

Good for you!

Hmmm . . .

Was it a charity event?  Some sort of  fundraiser for a non-profit organization?

Was there any food or drinks served?  Some champagne?  Some wine?  Some hors d'oeuvres?  Some imported cheeses?  

You must take all those things into consideration?  

Furthemore, even if you didn't get a chance to talk with Ronnie, you were in a roomful of "rich people".

A good time to work the room and pass out your business card!  (Even if your business is landscaping!)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Butler_Institute_of_American_Art

According to wikipedia:

"The Butler Institute of American Art, located on Wick Avenue in Youngstown, Ohio, United States, was the first museum dedicated exclusively to American art.[1] Established by local industrialist and philanthropist Joseph G. Butler, Jr., the museum has been operating pro bono since 1919."

"pro bono" means Pro bono publico is a phrase derived from Latin meaning "for the public good".  In other words, it is a non-profit organization!

Since most people that attend their events are probably aware of this fact, they did not see the need to advertise this fact.

According to their website:

http://www.butlerart.com/education.htm

"The Butler offers a wide array of visual arts programs for people of all ages. Tours of the museum's permanent collection and temporary shows offer visitors assistance interpreting exhibitions. A variety of free programs serve the communities schools, service groups, libraries and nursing homes. Butler docent volunteers bring slide and computer presentations to area groups, and introduce them to this valuable cultural resource."

Your generous donation of $200 is more than likely tax deductable.

The organizers of this event should have given everyone a small souvenir and said, "Thank you for supporting the arts."

gorda wrote on Sep 25^th, 2010 at 1:19pm:

Hmmm . . . Was it a charity event?  Some sort of  fundraiser for a non-profit organization? Was there any food or drinks served?  Some champagne?  Some wine?  Some hors d'oeuvres?  Some imported cheeses?   You must take all those things into consideration?   Furthemore, even if you didn't get a chance to talk with Ronnie, you were in a roomful of "rich people". A good time to work the room and pass out your business card!  (Even if your business is landscaping!)

This is how the event was billed:
The invitation read as follows: "A reception to honor artist Ronnie Wood and to view an exhibition of his Paintings, Drawings and Prints." The RSVP card read as follows: "Reception to Meet Ronnie Wood. 8-10 pm"

"Proceeds benefit free Butler children's programs"

Here is a video of the unruly mob that night at the Buler.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iub8EO48d5s&feature=player_embedded

Hmmm, that was a mighty short 2 hour reception... ::) >:(

Good grief, that mob was frightening! I heard several people LAUGHING AT THE SAME TIME!  ::) :whydontcha :wtf2

So how did that meeting pan out Ian, did they give you a refund or some kind of compensation?

gorda wrote on Sep 25^th, 2010 at 1:19pm:

Hmmm . . . Was it a charity event?  Some sort of  fundraiser for a non-profit organization? Was there any food or drinks served?  Some champagne?  Some wine?  Some hors d'oeuvres?  Some imported cheeses?   You must take all those things into consideration?   Furthemore, even if you didn't get a chance to talk with Ronnie, you were in a roomful of "rich people". A good time to work the room and pass out your business card!  (Even if your business is landscaping!)

___________________________________________

We got hosed as you can determine:

1. I have no clue....regardless ...ya can't tout something then pull the plug regardless if it is charity or not. The sole reason he was there was to show off his art and from what I, and everybody eles gathered (by the way it was touted and the very high ticket prices), was that he was going to talk to folks about that art. Maybe mingle with us all for a while. ...not a chance. A sixty second speech and then he was closed off behind a closed door and an hour or so later quietly swept out of the building and gone.

2. No. There were no drinks, foods, or ordearves served for free. The classy orderves and classy drinks that were there you had to pay for and might I add ... the drinks and orderves were pricey as one could expect.

3. Certainly I mingled and talked to others... I met some really cool folks....but guess what... we were all there to see Ronnie. All the chatter and good conversation we had were simply "byproducts" of waiting to see him and then wondering what was gonna happen next. Nothing happened next...


So there it is... As I told you before .... we were for the most part Duped... (and many felt that way). (Ronnie WAS bummed. As I noted he was ready to mingle. Ready to Bullshit. He was happy as a lark. He actually looked like a kid in a candy store right in front of me. ... then instantly they pulled the plug).


Ian

sweetcharmedlife wrote on Sep 25^th, 2010 at 4:58pm:

gorda wrote on Sep 25th, 2010 at 1:19pm: Hmmm . . . Was it a charity event?  Some sort of  fundraiser for a non-profit organization? Was there any food or drinks served?  Some champagne?  Some wine?  Some hors d'oeuvres?  Some imported cheeses?   You must take all those things into consideration?   Furthemore, even if you didn't get a chance to talk with Ronnie, you were in a roomful of "rich people". A good time to work the room and pass out your business card!  (Even if your business is landscaping!) This is how the event was billed: The invitation read as follows: "A reception to honor artist Ronnie Wood and to view an exhibition of his Paintings, Drawings and Prints." The RSVP card read as follows: "Reception to Meet Ronnie Wood. 8-10 pm" "Proceeds benefit free Butler children's programs" Here is a video of the unruly mob that night at the Buler.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iub8EO48d5s&feature=player_embedded

_____________________________________________

THANK YOU!!!!

You see... that was exactly after everyone went towards him. What was looking to be like a really "cool and exciting" nite as you could see was soon to be .... gone from sight. I told you. Nobody was rippin the dudes cloths off. He was alright...geez. After he went up those steps none of us saw him again. He was taken out of sight. Nobody even got to see him up there for even 2 seconds. We actually figured out where he was. Now look at that video, he was not in danger as I noted. Everything was cool. I was right there.  What a fuckin rip eh?...


Ian

gotdablouse wrote on Oct 14^th, 2010 at 6:12pm:

So how did that meeting pan out Ian, did they give you a refund or some kind of compensation?

_________________________

I dunno. I admit. I didn't act any further after those emails. I never called her. Not bc I was scared, or didn't care ... I just got much going on and it kinda went by. I am still fucking pissed though. Just seeing the video pisses me off. As you could see ... it was in line to be such a cool night. At least she, and they KNOW I and many were quite dissapointed .... not like it matters but at least they know there are quite a few that are leary of the Butler now and will say so to whoever is going to go to another event there...


Ian

Here is his speech. NOTE: If you look to the right, you'll see two guys in tan long sleeve dress shirts. they were the dudes who caught his attention in which he was talking to. I was directly behind them so now you know how he was right in front of me and how I heard his whole conversation.

speech: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3uNjZI9Fkc&NR=1

Posted below is a pic I took when he was making the speech and as you'll note....there is the one guy in the tan shirt right in front of me to the right.

This is why I thought ...."well hey, I am up next and right away to chat with Ronnie here right now...just great"....

-Never happened.

Ian

---

I got to go to one of his art shows about 4 yrs ago. Got in for free and did get to chat with him for about 60 seconds. I was standing with him in front of a million painting with a 2 dollar jacket on I bought at a yard sale. it was in Ft. lauderdale.

TomL wrote on Oct 15^th, 2010 at 8:11am:

I got to go to one of his art shows about 4 yrs ago. Got in for free and did get to chat with him for about 60 seconds. I was standing with him in front of a million painting with a 2 dollar jacket on I bought at a yard sale. it was in Ft. lauderdale.

______________________________



Thanks for the input Tom. I feel so much better now..  

Ian Billen wrote on Oct 15^th, 2010 at 9:09pm:

TomL wrote on Oct 15th, 2010 at 8:11am: I got to go to one of his art shows about 4 yrs ago. Got in for free and did get to chat with him for about 60 seconds. I was standing with him in front of a million painting with a 2 dollar jacket on I bought at a yard sale. it was in Ft. lauderdale. ______________________________ Thanks for the input Tom. I feel so much better now..

Funny!