Bruce Campbell Adamson PO Box 1003 Aptos, CA 95001-1003

Hello Bruce,

I was online...randomly clicked on your tribute to Gretchen.  It's a lovely
remembrance.

I met Gretchen at the Songwriter's Guild in 1990 - my family membership
brought me there to oversee our music catalog and she offered important
advice to me in some Estate matters pertaining to the songs of  my late
uncle Lou Handman  (www.louhandmansongs.com).

We talked many times thru the years.  She always showed up.  Her
participation in writing  the Songwriter's Guild Foundation  pamphlet
called "The Glossary"  was invaluable to those of us who trailed behind
her, Family Estate members all.

I remember my last conversation with Gretchen, just before she got ill.
  She sat next to me at a conference table up at the Ascap/DGA office  
during a meeting for Family Estate members only.  We all went around
the room airing our problems, questions, ideas, etc., with the
leadership of Ascap and then Gretchen stood up -  she was nervous, she
said.  Then she went on to tell us in her quiet modest way,  how in the
beginning of her relationship with Harold, women weren't allowed to
attend Ascap member meetings.  But Harold in his wisdom and clarity,
insisted that she be allowed to go with him and learn about the  
business of his music.  And learn she did.  She was a trailblazer in
the Family Estates corner of the music business.  She said that Ascap
must continue to listen to the members for new ways to improve their
system.  Then she sat down.  Everyone applauded and I put my arm around
her and patted her back, congratulating her, and she whispered in my
ear, asking if she was "really okay with what she said".   I replied
that it was from the heart and thank you for that.

I was at the church service for Gretchen and heard Drew play his pipes.
  Afterwards at her condo, I was mesmerized looking at all the mementos
and photos on her walls.

We who still attend those Ascap and SGA Family Estate proceedings
continue to speak of Gretchen and how much she is missed.  A great lady.

Just thought you'd like to know about her day with us, at work.

Sincerely,

Allison Caine