Platinums and Multiplatinums

PLATINUMS AND MULTI-PLATINUMS (AND I’M NOT TALKING ABOUT RECORDS)
By Laurie Wheeler
　
I’m writing this because I have some thoughts on the Platinum Package/Experience that I need to get off my chest. First of all, if you have done a Platinum Package once, congratulations! However, I think that doing a Platinum more than once is just plain scary. I don’t understand why anyone would want to do this, and I’m sure it scares Barry, too! In fact, I agree with others who have told me if they had a million dollars they would not do a Platinum more than once. It is meant to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience to put in your memory box and enjoy the memories for the rest of your life. Please read Lynda (Brazier’s) blog post on being the Last Platinum Girl at the Hilton in November 2009 on the UK Message Board. Here is the link: http://manilowuk.ning.com/profiles/blogs/last-platinum-girl-at-the?xg_source=activity
　
I also have mixed feelings about the Platinum Experience in general because in my opinion far too many cannot afford it, and it is not something the majority of fans can afford. I also believe it sends a negative message to those fans who haven’t met Barry who cannot afford “The Platinum Experience.” It also seems contradictory to me that this musical genius from Brooklyn, New York who has so many times told his fans “Don’t give up on your dreams” to do something that can inadvertently crush the dream of meeting him for those who cannot afford the Platinum Package. I know the whole idea of the Platinum Experience/Package is supposedly justified because the money goes to the Manilow Fund, or more specifically the Manilow Music Project. Unfortunately, it is not enough in my opinion. Please don’t get me wrong, I totally understand how important Barry’s humanitarian efforts are to him. However, I think the “Gift of Love” concerts that Barry did in December 2009 are a much better way of raising money for the Manilow Fund without crushing the dream of meeting Barry for those who cannot afford the Platinum. Thus, the residual affect is that the "have nots" feel Barry is NOT accessible to them. We all know those "Gift of Love" concerts at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert, California and the Rosemont Theatre in Chicago were very successful, and in my opinion represent charity fundraising at its best!
　
Most importantly, I have always felt that Barry has the most loyal, devoted and dedicated fans in the world, and the most amazing international fan base of any artist I know! That being the case, the bottom line in my opinion is that the love, support, loyalty, dedication and devotion we have given Barry for 35+ years should count for more than how much money we have in our bank accounts. However, with the Platinum Experience there is no middle ground, and ditto for being able to go to Vegas and see his new show at Paris Las Vegas. You either can afford it or you can’t. Those that can afford it have an amazing experience and those who cannot are left feeling frustrated and disappointed and missing Barry so very much!
　
In conclusion, I believe ALL of Barry’s fans deserve to be and feel appreciated and respected, and we should all feel like we are important part of Barry’s fan base. I also want to make it crystal clear that I am extremely grateful for the opportunities that I have had to meet Barry, attend BMIFC conventions, and all the wonderful Barry-related experiences I have had over the years. The memories of those experiences are precious, and will be close to my heart forever and a day! I’m speaking out about this because I know others have not been as fortunate, and not to benefit myself. If I have to be the champion of the underdog fans or “The Other 99” who cannot afford a Platinum Package and/or to go to Vegas at this time so be it! You can agree or disagree with me, but someone needs to make Barry and his management aware of what “The Other 99” are going through, especially during these tough economic times. In addition, I sincerely hope that everyone who reads this can appreciate that I am just saying how I feel about this issue and speaking from the heart!