My father lives in Arlington just a few blocks from the ABBOT HOUSE. I saw Darrel and his brother a number of times on the street or at the market.

While I was never a true fan, you could not help respecting the hometown boy's generosity -- hanging out with fans in their CLUBHOUSE and never refusing anyone's request for a photo or authograph.

My heart goes out to their close friends there -- especially comedian JIM FLORENTINE who not only toured with them but was their biggest fan and friend.