You know this guy ???

Don Osmond
Deseret News blogger | July 30, 2009 at 6:01 p.m.

Can I share a secret with you? Do you promise not to tell anyone?

Oh, the irony of that statement.

I have the hardest time remembering names.

If remembering someone's name is considered the best compliment one could ever give, forgetting someone's name is probably the biggest social blunder one could make at parties and gatherings.

Well, events like the one below, happen to the best of us more often than we would like to admit. And, the scenario usually plays out something like this:

Being socialites in our late-20s and early-30s, we attend parties and functions where we fraternize with new acquaintances all the time. During those get-togethers, jokes and good times are shared.

Unfortunately, at the close of the evening, we go our separate ways and disappear into our private lives. We rarely consider getting each other's contact information; we'll just connect on Facebook.

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Editor's note: Don Osmond is participating in a worldwide competition to be the official blogger for an Antarctica expedition. He is currently ranked in second place out of 400 entries. If you wish to help him on his way, go to:

www.blogyourwaytoantarctica.com/blogs/view/356

Donny and Marie tackle new album

Donny and Marie Osmond's first album in 31 years "definitely has a lot of hits on it," predicts the hotel executive who reunited them as Las Vegas headliners last fall.

Don Marrandino, president of Harrah's Las Vegas, said he has listened to a sampling of the new songs and the album features "a lot of love songs."

"What resonates so much is that's it's so young and hip and good," he said.

The album, about half-completed, is being engineered by Donny in a sound studio he built in his dressing room.

Donny and Marie worked several references of the new album into Marrandino's roast in front of 500 high rollers on Saturday night at the Flamingo Las Vegas.

Donny noted Marrandino is a rock guitarist who has played on stage with a number of bands. Marrandino might play the guitar on the album, Donny said.

Marie jumped out of her dais chair and exclaimed, "Over my dead body."

Donny said he checked out Marrandino's guitar skills one night.

"He was really rockin' out," Donny said. "If his guitar was plugged in, it could have really been something. I have never seen someone play air guitar with a real guitar!"

Marrandino revealed on Sunday that he has extended the brother-sister act another two years, through 2012.

"We're wildly happy that they are going to be here another three years," Marrandino said.

SOURCE: ReviewJournal.com

Mistaken identity

by Don Osmond

There are times when we are mistaken for someone else.

If you are being compared to someone you admire, a case of mistaken identity can be viewed as a compliment. However, there are times you're told you have a striking resemblance to Tobias from "Arrested Development." (That's no lie. It happened to me last week. Please tell me she was joking.)

I digress.

A few years ago, my family and I took a flight to Denver. I think my father was performing out there, but I honestly don't remember. Regardless, it was a reason to take a family trip for the weekend.

The seven of us boarded the plane in Salt Lake City. My parents and I were seated three-across on the left, and my brothers in the neighboring seats.

As with any typical Osmond sighting, we were picking up a few audible whispered conversations.

"Psst. That's Donny Osmond." (Over the years, I've trained my ear. It's kind of a game my brothers and I play; a misspent youth, I know.)

MORE: DESNEWS

A tribute to our pioneer heritage

Pioneer Day is quickly approaching; I just love an excuse to shoot off fireworks!

Even though we'll all be enjoying a day off work filled with exciting parades and flashy fireworks, there is a deeper meaning behind our celebration. It's a time for us to remember our heritage.

Our ancestors taught great lessons of courage, faith, devotion, commitment and sacrifice through their example. All we have to do is open a journal from yesteryear.

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David Osmond on the move

Entertainer to speak and perform at MS Society luncheon

The Osmond name is synonymous with music.

But it's also synonymous with charity, faith and overcoming physical challenges.

Attendees of Friday's "Women on the Move" luncheon to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Northwest Indiana chapter, will be treated to a performance and inspirational message from entertainer David Osmond.

Osmond, who's been battling MS for the past four years, said he's honored to speak at the fundraiser.

The event will be held at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville.

'I'll be singing, doing some music and the spoken word to bring a message of hope that there's great things on the horizon," Osmond said.

The singer, nephew of Donny and Marie, was officially diagnosed with multiple sclerosis three years ago after experiencing debilitating symptoms that left him paralyzed.

"I'd been pursuing a solo musical career of my own and four years ago, I had to give it up. I was forced to put music on hold because ultimately I ended up in a wheelchair. I was paralyzed from the chest down. We didn't know what was going on," Osmond said.

His father Alan, of the group The Osmond Brothers, who's been living with MS for 21 years, has been Osmond's inspiration in dealing with the disease.

"My dad is just a champion of life and an uber optimist. His motto is 'When you can't control things, you can always control your attitude.' And that makes the biggest difference when you control your shift in perspective," he said.

While Osmond's previous severe MS symptoms have lessened a bit, he doesn't take anything for granted.

"It's a constant thing I live with but I'm doing very well. I'm walking and I'm pursuing music again with a whole new appreciation and passion," Osmond said.

The performer, lead singer of The Osmonds: Second Generation, is preparing to release his first solo album this fall.

He was also a contestant on last season's "American Idol" and made it to Hollywood.

"Through that medium, I was able to bring more awareness to MS and that it's still a real thing," he said.

Osmond, 29, and his wife Valerie just had their first child -- daughter Saffron -- two months ago.

During Friday's talk, Osmond said he'll focus on "overcoming adversity," speaking about his life and the strides the organization has made.

"The Society is doing phenomenal things and it's a privilege to speak on behalf of their cause," Osmond said.

FYI: (219) 924-3240 or nationalmssociety.org. Suggested donation is $75 but any donation is appreciated.

SOURCE

Donny Osmond & Elaine Paige Surprise Susan Boyle

Copyright 2009 Jeff Mitchell / Getty Images

"Britain's Got Talent" contestant Susan Boyle may have leaped into the limelight, but she still gets star struck when meeting her music inspirations.

In an interview with "Today" show host Meredith Vieira, a glamorous Boyle was surprised with a special message from her childhood idol Donny Osmond. "Susan, congratulations on all of your success," Osmond said via remote hookup. "It's wonderful what's happening with your career, and good luck with this new record that you're doing. Someday, I make a prediction you and I will do a record together, where we make 'Puppy Love.'"

An excited Boyle agreed. Following her conversation with Osmond, she was then surprised on set by musical theater star Elaine Page. Boyle exclaimed when she saw Page, "Gosh, but it's a thrill for me to at last meet you, because I have been wanting to say hello and to meet you for some time now. So at last these lovely people have given me the opportunity to come and say hello to you."

Paige responded, "You captured the imagination of the world."

As for Boyle's own fame and media frenzy, she says it was a lot like a demolition ball. "The impact - like a demolition ball. And anyone who has that kind of impact finds it really hard to get a head around it. I've got to be honest here. I guess I had to get my head around it, but through the guidance of a great team - and they are very good - I was able to see that in perspective and really turn that around a little."

ETOnline

Osmonds share message of miracles at interfaith devotional

By JAMIE LAMPROS
Standard-Examiner correspondent

OGDEN -- In life, pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.

That's the message David Osmond wanted the audience to remember when he spoke Sunday night at the Ogden Tabernacle, which was filled to capacity.

Osmond and his father, Alan Osmond, were the guest speakers at the annual community interfaith devotional.

"Pain comes to all of us, but suffering is optional. It's a choice," David Osmond said. Osmond and his father have multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system.

The younger Osmond said he was diagnosed just six months before he was to be married.

He was singing at the Missionary Training Center in Provo when his toes went numb. One week later, the numbness had traveled to his shins. Three months after that, it had moved to his chest and he was in a wheelchair. He also had lost some of his vision.

"There I was, in a wheelchair. I couldn't move. I couldn't breathe very well, and I didn't know what was going on," he said.

Today, Osmond can walk and see. He said he believes in miracles.

"On paper, I'm not supposed to be walking, but I'll tell you what -- you are looking at a miracle," he said.

"I don't take one step for granted anymore. It's a gift. We have no right to ask, when sorrow comes our way, 'Why would this happen to me,' unless we are willing to ask the very same thing of every moment of happiness that comes our way."

Osmond also spoke of his experience on "American Idol," where he made it through to the final round.

He remembers Barry Manilow telling him the secret to success isn't luck -- it's opportunity and preparedness.

As he was sitting inside the Kodak Theatre with laryngitis, waiting to find out if he had made it through to the next round, he said a scripture came to mind.

"It goes something like this, 'Now is the time for men to prepare to meet God.' I thought to myself, 'Are you prepared for that?' All of a sudden, this show didn't mean so much," he said.

"We are all God's kids. He knows every one of us and every experience we have ever gone through. He knows every hair on our head.

"I don't know how, but I believe it, and I pray that we will take upon us his glorious name and act and say as he would do."

Alan Osmond, who said, "I may have MS, but MS doesn't have me," spoke about his Ogden roots and how thrilled the family was to be back in their hometown.

He talked about how the family made it into show business and about living with MS.

"I remember not being able to move my leg and arm. I couldn't make the Scout sign with my fingers," he said.

"I turned to my Father in Heaven and said, 'Help.'

"We all have tests. That's why we came to this world, but if you will pray, you will find the Lord Jesus Christ and out of that test will come testimony.

"If you are humble and let the Lord help you, he will. He lives. He is the way, and the family is God's plan of life."

Source: Standard Examiner

Days of '47: The day when pioneers are cool

Ogden Pioneer Days » Another big day of celebrating takes place in northern Utah, beginning with a 7 p.m. pancake breakfast at the Ogden Amphitheater, 2549 Washington Blvd., followed by Ogden's parade beginning 9 a.m. at 31st Street, traveling north on Washington Blvd., ending on 20th Street. The Pioneer Days Rodeo is at 7:30 p.m., which features Ogden's long-standing Miss Rodeo Utah pageant, followed by fireworks at the Pioneer Stadium, 668 17th St. David Osmond and the Osmond 2nd Generation will sing the national anthem at the rodeo. Tickets are $12, $6 for kids, available by calling 801-621-1696 or at www.ogdenpioneerdays.com.

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Osmond sighting: Merrill keeps music and faith at forefront

Merrill Osmond, the lead voice of the famous Osmond family, has spent more than 50 of his 56 years on stage.
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He's still going strong. He will perform Friday and Saturday at the Comedy Quarter in Neenah. (Yes, it's a comedy club but, no, it's not a comedy show; it's a concert).

In 2007 Osmond and his eight siblings took a 50th anniversary performance tour around the world.

That tour marked the end of one era and the beginning of another for Osmond. He's concentrating on touring solo this year, although he also appears in some shows with one or more of his brothers. Collectively the Osmonds have produced 47 gold and platinum records with record sales at 100 million.

"In Europe especially it's the young people who have grabbed on to the music," said Osmond, who lives in Ephraim, Utah. "It's a retro situation going on and we're just humbled and excited about it."

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Justin Osmond shares his mission to help hearing impaired

For more than 25 years, the Starkey Foundation has been helping children and adults around the world with improving hearing loss.

This weekend the Foundation will hold it's annual star-studded gala. Everyone from Elton John to Billy Crystal will be in attendance.

On Thursday at 4pm, the nephew of entertainers Donnie and Marie Osmond, Justin Osmond joined us with more on his mission to help the hearing impaired.

JUSTIN VIDEO

Merill Osmond at The Comedy Quarter

Two-time Grammy Award nominee Merrill Osmond will be making a stop in the Fox Cities this month as part of his 2009 tour.

Merrill Osmond, the middle brother and unique lead voice of the famous Osmond family, will have five shows July 22-25 at The Comedy Quarter in the Town of Menasha.

Merrill has already spent more than 50 years in show business, beginning in 1958 with his brothers Alan, Wayne and Jay singing barbershop music in their hometown of Ogden, Utah. The brothers, and later their younger siblings Donny, Marie and Jimmy, enjoyed success as an entertainment group on The Andy Williams Show during the 1960s.

In the early 1970s, the Osmonds shifted their musical styles toward pop music and rock and roll. In 1971, the siblings topped the Billboard pop chart with their hit “One Bad Apple.” The family, with Merrill playing bass guitar and singing lead vocals, enjoyed a great deal of success throughout the 1970s.

In total, Merrill and his brothers wrote music and lyrics for five number one hit records. Merrill also shares production credit for many of the Osmond’s 27 gold records. The group produced 47 gold and platinum records, and holds the record for earning 11 gold and platinum albums in one year. All told, the group sold more than 100 million copies of their albums worldwide.

In 1975, The Osmond Brothers won the “People’s Choice Award” as America’s favorite musical group. In 2003 the Osmond Family was honored for its achievements with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Many of the Osmond siblings enjoyed successful solo careers, most notably were Donny and Marie, whose show was produced by Merrill from 1976 to 1979.

In 1982 the United States Jaycees named Merrill one of the 10 most outstanding men of America. The Osmonds are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and have long been active in promoting their church’s mission through their music and philanthropy.

Merrill and his wife Mary have a deaf son, Justin who grew up without being able to hear his father’s music. Along with help from his family, Merrill’s son started the Osmond Hearing Centers to help people with hearing disabilities.

Merrill also played a role in two presidential inaugurations. He produced “The Making of an Inauguration” for President Ronald Reagan and “The Quincentennial Inaugural Ball” for President George Bush’s Inauguration in 1989.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Merrill joined the Quick Response Relief Team of the Morrell Foundation in the affected areas of the southern United States to provide emergency relief, shelter and support.

His latest venture – The Shiloh Experience: A journey for a peaceful heart – is an opportunity to refresh, renew and restore body mind and spirit, Merrill’s website reads. The program works by “offering time to relax, refocus and rebalance through the unique combination of music art and wellbeing.” The Shiloh Experience is set to begin in late 2009.

In 2007, Merrill, along with more than 100 of his relatives, appeared on Oprah to celebrate their father, who had recently passed away. In 2008, the Osmond siblings celebrated their 50th year of show business by completing a world tour.

Merrill Osmond will perform July 22-25 at the Comedy Quarter. Tickets are on sale now. Doors open at 6 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. There will be two shows on Friday, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. On Saturday night, doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

For ticket information, call 920-722-5653 or visit comedyquarter.com.

SOURCE

Osmonds: The Next Generation to perform Ogden

LINDA EAST BRADY
Standard-Examiner staff

Singer David Osmond says he's thrilled his family is a big part of Ogden's 75th anniversary celebration of Pioneer Days.

He and his brothers, sons of Alan Osmond, perform at the Ogden Amphitheater on Saturday night.

He is also slated to cut the ribbon at the Treehouse Museum's latest exhibit earlier the same day. He and his brothers will also appear with their uncle Tom and their parents as VIPs at the Pioneer Days parade, and sing the national anthem at the rodeo that evening.

"That's the family's old stomping grounds," said Osmond, speaking from home in Provo. "We are really excited about this -- being able to have my parents as grand marshals of the parade is such an honor, and we'll be right there with them. We can all reminisce and look to our roots, since Ogden is where we came from as a family."

Osmond's uncles and dad were part of one of the most famous sibling singing groups of all time. The elder Osmonds lived in the Ogden area as children.

David Osmond and his brothers are carrying on the musical tradition, with David, like some of his uncles, also working solo and having an acting career outside the group. As a solo artist, he has a new song available on iTunes, "Last Day," with a full album soon to follow.

Alan Osmond's boys (there are no sisters) grew up mainly in Utah, and in Branson, Mo. The four oldest -- David is fourth in line -- started out, as did their father and uncles, as a barbershop quartet.

"We've been performing since we were wee lads -- before I can even remember, quite honestly," said Osmond. "We used to watch those old videos of our dad and uncles, and sing along. My dad saw that interest and taught us what he knew about all that barbershop harmony -- and he knew a lot. We learned the same music, same routines, moves, choreography, as my dad did on 'The Andy Williams Show.' "

The boys had their own rehearsal hall in the basement, and rehearsed three or four hours a day, after the schoolwork was done.

"We lived music constantly," said Osmond. "I am very grateful for the discipline my dad had growing up, and how my grandpa taught him -- he taught us the same way. And that barbershop training -- learning tight harmonies, learning how to listen to each other and to yourself at the same time -- man. There are some skill sets there that definitely help with whatever music you do.

"When we started singing as kids, my dad said, 'Guys, if you are going to do this, you are going to do this right.' My dad and his brothers were incredibly good. They worked hard, and it set the bar very high for us. Big shoes to fill!

"So we worked really hard at it. We still enjoy the style, too -- along with other styles, we'll definitely go into some of those barbershop songs in Ogden."

In the family footsteps

Much like the first generation of Osmonds, who were given their national exposure by Andy Williams, Bob Hope gave the younger generation their break by putting them on his Christmas show in the 1980s, said David Osmond.

"From then on out, we were performing," he said. "We evolved from the barbershop thing into kind of a boy-band group, the Osmond Boys. We used to tour around with The New Kids on the Block. It was really fun."

The brothers also spent a number of years performing various musical styles alongside their uncles in Branson, Mo.

"We learned a tremendous amount, working six days a week, two shows a day, there in Branson. It was a blast to be in one spot, performing as a family, and just do what we loved like that."

David's uncle, Jimmy Osmond, who spoke with the Standard-Examiner earlier this month about the Osmond Brothers' July 11 appearance in Layton, noted how much he appreciated the younger Osmonds' work. He helped the Second Generation finance their first album.

"I am a huge fan of their abilities," Jimmy Osmond said. "They've had a good deal of success, especially so overseas. I always enjoyed working with them, and really wish them well. They are trying to do this in a very different world than when we were young, so it's harder, I think. But they certainly have the talent to do it."

Together and solo

While his brothers mostly pursued other occupations, coming together musically for special occasions like the Ogden show, David Osmond is pursuing show business full time. Like his uncles Donny and Jimmy, he has played Joseph of "Technicolor Dreamcoat" fame numerous times, finishing his most recent run in Pittsburgh last month.

"I had a chance to go back to that realm of performing, and it was so fun," said Osmond. "Long ago, I took over for my Uncle Donny in 'Joseph,' and even got my brothers involved in the show -- they played Joseph's brothers with me on a national tour.

"But my music, my writing, developing my own sound, is my real passion right now," he added.

He is working on an album he hopes to release soon, recording it in Los Angeles, Salt Lake City and Nashville, Tenn.

"I love to write songs, and I really love to collaborate with great songwriters," he said. "That's something Nashville can offer me -- even if you don't do country music, you've got amazing songwriters there. I love those that can interpret thoughts, have them help me get it onto paper, into song. It was really especially important for me to do it on this album. I did not want someone to present a bunch of great songs, because I wanted it to come from inside me, say the message that I am feeling. That way, I can relate even more to what I am singing."

Like it's his last

Four years ago, David was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. His father has fought the autoimmune disease for 21 years.

"But at this point in my life, I feel like my cup is overflowing. We just had a baby nine weeks ago -- and a little girl!" He laughed. "That's a rare thing in our family!

"Along with that, I am doing what I love, what my passion is, for a job. I feel so blessed, because I had to give it up for several years. I know what it feels like to not play guitar because of my hands not working, to not sing, because my diaphragm just wasn't there. I was paralyzed, in a wheelchair. It was terribly hard."

Though Osmond is singing and dancing again, he feels the effects of the disease every day.

"I do a ton of advocacy work for the Race to Erase MS, for the National MS Society -- whatever I can do to bring awareness, and give back. I literally do not take a single step for granted. I feel I live every day to the fullest, and that I hide it pretty well."

He said his new single, "Last Day," is about how he tries to approach life.

"The message of the song is to live each day like it was your last," he said. "It is a powerful message I sure relate to. I think a lot of people live that way, and I hope more will think about doing so. You really never know what's up ahead."

PREVIEW

• WHO: David Osmond and Osmonds Second Generation
• WHEN: 8 p.m. Saturday
• WHERE: Ogden Amphitheater, 343 Historic 25th St., Ogden
• TICKETS: $10-$18, available from Smith's Tix, (800) 888-TIXX

SOURCE

Life is an Adventure

By Don Osmond July 17th, 2009 | 10:50 am

Life is not meant to be wasted away on the hopes of reaching some ethereal destination. Every moment of every breath is a gift give to us, which we should embrace. Live life in crescendo. Only then will the destination will be worth it.

Traveling is a passion of mine, and I have taken various opportunities to visit Europe, Central America and Canada. In some cases, I’ve lived abroad for years to really immerse myself in the cultural experience.

I am an adventurous spirit by nature; my hobbies can attest to my commitment to the extreme. For the past three years, I’ve been involved in the international sport of bobsledding. Traveling down a mile-long track of ice at 80-plus miles per hour in a full-body speedo would definitely classify me as atypical.

MORE: VOTE FOR DON TO BLOG FROM ANTARCTICA

Thin- or thick-skinned?

No one likes being the brunt of jokes, but it's inevitable when you're in the media spotlight. And believe me, the Osmond family has seen our share of public zingers.

Well, Sarah Palin is in the glare of media -- again. This time because of her resignation.

Now, I'm not going to argue political sides. What I find interesting is what happens when someone becomes a media target.

When a public figure goes under the media microscope, opinion and speculation run rampant across the Internet. And, because the whole story never comes to light at the beginning, questions abound, and people deduce their own viewpoints.

The opinions surface quickly, and people will say anything -- nearly everyone has a blog, Twitter or Facebook account. Unfortunately, not every written word is kind. Oh, the curse of notoriety.

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Nathan Osmond to perform

by Lu Ann Staheli

slideshow

Nathan Osmond is an accomplished singer, songwriter, producer and motivational speaker, and on July 19 at 6:30 p.m. he will perform as part of Fiesta Days at the Sunday Night Music in the Park.

“I’m excited to be coming to Spanish Fork. My mother was raised here, and my wife and I had our first home here,” Nathan said. “It’s good to return to my roots.”

Nathan is proud to perform songs from his first solo album, “Feels Like Heaven,” which features tracks produced by Dean Sams of the hit group Lonestar, and others from Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer, Gary Baker.

“As I spent several years performing at the Osmond Family Theater in Branson, I learned how much I loved country music,” Nathan said. “Then after I got married, started having children, had a mortgage and drove a mini-van, it hit me — I was living country music!”

Nathan has been performing almost since the moment he was born. The second son of Alan Osmond, oldest of the performing Osmond Brothers, Nathan appeared on stage and television as a babe in arms.

“Some of my earliest memories are time spent on the set of 'Donny and Marie' and 'The Osmond Family' shows,” he said.

He began his own singing career with his brothers when he was only six. He and Michael, Douglas and David, were discovered by the late Bob Hope and given their first national television appearance as a group in 1986 on Hope’s Christmas show, singing a barbershop novelty number.

Since then, Nathan and his brothers have traveled to over 14 countries to perform. The Osmonds: Second Generation, signed with Curb Records in the U.S. and Epic/Sony in Europe, had three songs in the Top 40 in the U.K., and played to sold-out stadiums and arenas in the U.S., Europe and Asia. In their roles as Youth Chairmen for the Children’s Miracle Network, the group visited hospitals across the country, while continuing to record, perform on tour and make appearances on "Good Morning America," "Live with Regis and Kathy Lee," and "CBS This Morning," as well as other major network shows.

In addition to his musical talents, Nathan has traveled internationally as a motivational speaker, sharing the stage with such names as Tony Robbins, Donald Trump, Brian Tracy, Lou Dobbs, David Bach, T. Harv Ecker, George Foreman, Steve Young and Sarah Ferguson. He was in the recent film “Gordon B. Hinckley: Giant Among Men,” playing President Hinckley’s missionary companion. Nathan’s song, “Sweet” will be featured on CMT this year.

In 2002, Nathan married his sweetheart, Sarah, and they have three sons, Zachary, Corbin and Samuel.

Nathan’s CD will be available for purchase at his Fiesta Days performance, and he will sign autographs.

“I’d love to meet everyone,” he said. “Join me for a relaxing evening filled with music and a little inspiration. I’m fluent in Spanish, so come ready to have a ‘fiesta.’”

For more information about Nathan Osmond or to hear samples of his CD, visit his website at www.NathanOsmond.com.

Joys and struggles / Osmonds to share how their faith in Christ helps them battle MS

OGDEN -- A special activity this year in recognition of the 75th anniversary of Ogden Pioneer Days is a community interfaith devotional.

The event, which begins at 6:30 p.m. July 19 at the Ogden Tabernacle, 2133 Washington Blvd,, will feature Alan Osmond and his sons, David, Scott, Jon, Doug, Michael, Nathan, Alex and Tyler, who perform as David Osmond and the Second Generation.

The event is possible because Alan and Suzanne Osmond will be in town to serve as grand marshals for the parade.

David Osmond and the Osmonds ¬�-- The Second Generation will perform in a concert the night before the devotional and will sing the National Anthem at the rodeo July 24.

The event, titled "Overcoming Adversity through Jesus Christ and His Atonement," will include talks by both Alan and David Osmond, and musical tributes, including original music by David Osmond.

"Both Alan and David Osmond battle multiple sclerosis," said Jana Rae Shaw, Ogden Pioneer Days community involvement director. "They have a message to share about daily overcoming adversity."

Shaw said the message of hope and overcoming hardship is one that people of all faiths will find beneficial.

"The Osmonds will honor our diversity as we seek to live out a common voice in response to human suffering," Shaw said.

"It is a universal message of hope for all, no matter the individual circumstance. We welcome and invite everyone to be part of this community gathering."

According to the family's biographical material, Alan Osmond, the oldest of the performing Osmond brothers, has performed all over the world. David Osmond has played to sold-out stadiums and arenas in the United States, Europe and Asia and most recently appeared on American Idol.

SOURCE

One of the Nation’s Leading Children’s Charities Opens Headquarters as Part of Salt Lake City’s Downtown Redevelopment Efforts

Jimmy Osmond, Miss America 2009 Katie Stam, Salt Lake County Mayor Corroon, Primary Children’s Medical Center Patients and Others Join to Celebrate Children’s Miracle Network’s New International Headquarters

SALT LAKE CITY (July 10, 2009)—Children’s Miracle Network, a non-profit organization that raises funds for children’s hospitals, has opened the doors to its new international headquarters, located in downtown Salt Lake City.

Jimmy Osmond, the brother of the organization’s co-founder Marie Osmond and a member of the Board of Trustees, was joined in the ribbon cutting ceremony by Miss America 2009 Katie Stam, Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon, City Councilman and Chair of the Redevelopment Agency Eric Jergensen, and several children who have been treated at Primary Children’s Medical Center (Primary Children’s is one of Children’s Miracle Network’s 170 hospitals).

The group revealed the total amount raised by Children’s Miracle Network from its 1983 inception to today – an impressive $3,818,459,578.32 – and cut a ribbon using children’s safety scissors before inviting guests inside to tour the building.

The four-story building, which is located at 205 West 700 South, was completed with support from Salt Lake City through its downtown revitalization efforts. Children’s Miracle Network currently employees 100 people at the new building; the nonprofit also has offices and employees in New York City, Canada, Ireland and the U.K.

“Salt Lake City is excited to welcome the Children’s Miracle Network headquarters to our vibrant downtown area,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker. “They join a roster of noteworthy companies and organizations who have chosen to call our City home. We are honored to have the employees who work tirelessly for a noble cause in downtown Salt Lake City.”

Since 1983 Children’s Miracle Network has operated from Utah. In that time, Children’s Miracle Network has raised more than $3.8 billion for children’s hospitals; has expanded to serve hospitals in Canada, Ireland, the U.K. and Australia; and has formed relationships with hundreds of corporate sponsors, including Walmart, Costco, RE/MAX, Marriott, Delta Air Lines and Microsoft Xbox, to raise money for children’s hospitals around the world.

“Even as we have expanded to serve children in different countries, Utah has remained our home,” said Children’s Miracle Network president and CEO Scott Burt. “The new building provides us with the space and resources we need to most effectively raise money for our member hospitals, and also demonstrates our commitment to Utah.”

Article can be found at: http://www.childrensmiraclenetwork.org/PressReleasesDetail.aspx?id=151&releaseid=34

Runway to Healing

Don Osmond: Simplifying celebrity

Events within the entertainment industry hit my family pretty hard during the past couple months. Untimely deaths often give reason for reflection, especially when they involve those whom we've had a close relationship with.

Most everyone knows my family associated with the Jacksons throughout the years, as well as entertainer Danny Gans, who co-produced the Donny and Marie show in Las Vegas. However, when a celebrity is lambasted by the limelight of media attention, sometimes the simple things they do go unnoticed.

Interestingly, when our time is up, it's the kind and simple things we are remembered by.

MORE: MormonTimes

Marie Osmond Remembers Michael Jackson

Marie Osmond talks to ET about the loss of Michael Jackson, recounting a special moment between the Osmond family and the Jacksons!

Marie spoke candidly about the loss of the King of Pop -- and she reveals what part of his public memorial touched her the most.

"I think what touched me the most about Michael's funeral was when his daughter stepped forward and said that he was such a good daddy," Marie says. "The saddest thing to me is that the people that I grew up with in this business, the people that I love, they're gone. I know what loss is, I know what that means to lose your parents. To lose him so young I know is going to be very hard for those kids. So hopefully they have that support that they need to get through this difficult time."

The iconic member of the famed Osmond family also tells ET about one of her memories with the late Farrah Fawcett, describing a time when Farrah appeared on the "Donny and Marie" show.

Marie, who, at the time we interviewed her, was in Atlanta launching her new collection of giftware and tabletop items by Giftcraft, tells ET that her collection of bags, home décor items and jewelry will hit stores in 2009. Her line of stationary, giftware, and home fragrances is set to launch in 2010.

Watch the video for more on Marie's thoughts about the death of Michael Jackson -- and find out more about the launch of her giftware products.

ETONLINE

Lands’ End FeelGood Collection and Campaign to Benefit Nation’s Homeless

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lands’ End FeelGood Collection and Campaign to Benefit Nation’s Homeless
Buy a FeelGood Sweaters and Accessories and Lands’ End
Will Donate a Pound of FeelGood Yarn to Volunteer Knitters

DODGEVILLE, Wis. – July 15, 2009 – Want to feel good about shopping and giving? This fall, Lands’ End will kick off the FeelGood Campaign, a fun way to shop and feel good about giving to homeless individuals and families across the country. Beginning on September 1st, for every Lands’ End FeelGood item purchased, the company will donate a pound of signature FeelGood yarn to One Heart Foundation’s Warming Families, a nationwide knitting charity. Lands’ End expects to donate thousands of pounds of yarn to Warming Families chapters where volunteers plan to knit up to 25,000 hats and other items to warm the homeless and displaced.

The new FeelGood collection from Lands’ End is made from proprietary yarn that is as soft as cashmere yet features the durability and price of cotton. The collection features a variety of sweater styles, gloves and scarves for women in rich autumnal colors such as Aztec Gold, Charcoal Heather and Winter Violet. The FeelGood sweater is available in a Cable or Striped Cardigan ($69.50) and Turtleneck ($59.50). Items from the FeelGood collection can be purchased online at www.landsend.com, by calling 1(800) 800-5800 and by visiting the Lands' End Shops at Sears. Yarn donations will be made to volunteer knitters throughout the season.

“With a simple purchase, anyone can give back this fall,” said Susan Sachatello, Lands’ End senior vice president of marketing. “We are thrilled to work with Warming Families and appreciate the hundreds of knitters donating their time and talent for this great cause.”
Vickie Howell, national knitting personality and host of the DIY Network’s Knitty Gritty is also working with Lands’ End to help instruct novice knitters as well as create hat patterns for the campaign. Vickie is creating a ribbed-knit hat pattern in an adult and child size, exclusively for the initiative. Lands’ End will share the patterns as well as provide additional information about how all knitters can lend a hand at www.landsend.com/feelgood.


About Lands’ End
Lands’ End® is one of the world’s largest retailers of casual and tailored clothing for women, men, children and infants around the world. In addition, Lands’ End offers an innovative collection of fine-quality goods for the home. Lands’ End merchandise can be purchased online at www.landsend.com, by calling 1-800-800-5800 and by visiting the Lands’ End Shops at Sears. Lands’ End is a proud member of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD). And, all high-quality Lands’ End merchandise is Guaranteed. Period.®

About Warming Families
Warming Families, a project of the One Heart Foundation, is a 100% volunteer project that delivers blankets and other warm items to the homeless and displaced while strengthening families through charity work. At the heart of this project are area volunteers who function to coordinate efforts and locate and supply local shelters and nursing homes.

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Osmonds in Layton for rare Utah show; Jimmy Osmond reflects on friend Michael Jackson

In light of recent events, Jimmy Osmond feels especially blessed to be performing with brothers Merrill, Wayne and Jay at Layton's Kenley Centennial Amphitheater this weekend.

As it so happened, he spoke to the Standard-Examiner the day after Michael Jackson's death.

Osmond can't help but see many similarities in the Jacksons and the Osmonds, especially during their glory years as teen idols in the '70s.

"I also used to work for Michael," Osmond said, speaking from his home in Provo. Among his many businesses, the youngest Osmond brother owns theaters and manages tour productions. It was through the latter enterprise that Osmond got to know Jackson well.

"Michael and I got an opportunity to be more than just 'hi-'bye' guys. I actually brokered his Asian tours when he did his 'Bad' album, and we stayed in touch after that. He was a friend and I will miss him. It is quite a shock.

"And I know how important his family was to him -- like mine is to me. His family was there for him during some tough times. Frankly, I think the Jacksons are a lot more intact than people give them credit for."

MORE: Standard Examiner

CMN Dedicates New Building

Jimmy Osmond was on hand today in Salt Lake City for the dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony of the new building to house the Children's Miracle Network, a charity the Osmonds helped organize.

"I'm thrilled with the progress, and on behalf of my family I want to thank all of you that work so hard for CMN in helping 17 million people a year," Osmond said.

KSL.com

Join One Hearts in helping Homeless Families

PLEASE JOIN ONEHEART.ORG & WARMINGFAMILIES.COM!

We are teaming up to make cams to "Warm Homeless Families" before Christmas!
Kaye, our director says: "It doesn't matter, whether you crochet, knit, loom
or sew, you can create hats."
Join us at: http://warmingfamilies.ning.com and http://oneheart.org
Alan Osmond

Summer Song Favorite: 'One Bad Apple'

Watch The Osmonds Perform "One Bad Apple"

Redferns/Getty Images

Watch The Video

Watch The Osmonds Perform "One Bad Apple"

All Things Considered, July 2, 2009 - For the second in a series of summer songs, All Things Considered host Melissa Block spoke to author Ann Patchett, who wrote The Patron Saint of Liars, Bel Canto and Run, among others. Patchett shares what she calls "a deeply humiliating story" about the song she thinks of when she thinks of summer.

At a neighborhood party last weekend, as everyone was talking about favorite Michael Jackson songs, Patchett slipped up and named "One Bad Apple," which she thought was recorded by the Jackson 5.

But, no. That's The Osmonds, doing their best to imitate the Jacksons. Patchett says she has probably spent her whole adult life fooling herself into thinking she was cool back then, but her rural Tennessee upbringing almost surely means she and her friends only listened to the squeaky-clean Mormon brothers. "We worshipped them," says Patchett.

She remembers spending the summer of 1971 on a farm in Ashland City, Tenn., with her sister Heather and her two stepsisters, Tina and Angie. They didn't have a record player, so they spent most of their time dialing the local radio station, enduring the busy signal until they could finally get through to request "One Bad Apple," over and over again.

NPR

Be Thankful for Moisture

Some may call me crazy, but if you're following me on Twitter you've probably seen one or two comments about how much I love the rain. Let's just say, "we don't get much during Utah summers."

I realize Utahns don't have much to complain about when comparing weather patterns with Arizona or Nevada. But during these dry months, a little rain is pretty nice every now and then.

However, in Mormondum, rain isn't called rain. It's called moisture... and we're thankful for it. Come to think of it, the same can said about snow, sleet, fog, dew, etc. -- it's all moisture.

MORE:
MORMON TIMES

Ogden Pioneer Days 75th Anniversary Marshalls in a Second Generation of Osmonds

The Osmond 2nd Generation and Their Parents, Alan and Suzanne Osmond, Will Be Grand Marshalls of the July 24th Pioneer Day Parade and Will Sing the National Anthem That Night at the Rodeo

OGDEN, Utah--(BUSINESS WIRE)--It’s no secret the Osmond family has always been a little bit country and a little bit rock ’n roll, but this July their country side will be on full display as The Osmond 2nd Generation and their parents, Alan and Suzanne, appear as Grand Marshalls at the Ogden Pioneer Days 75th Anniversary Celebration.

The Osmond 2nd Generation, known for singing, dancing and harmonizing around the world, will reinforce the theme of this year’s celebration “A tradition, make it yours” by providing good, wholesome family entertainment.

“We want the 75th Anniversary Celebration to be a memorable event for years to come and being able to include The Osmond 2nd Generation with the other activities we’ve planned really is the icing on the cake,” said Desiree Cooper-Larsen, Ogden Pioneer Days Committee Chairwoman. "We want people to start planning their schedules now, so they don’t miss out on all the activities we’ve got planned for this year’s celebration."

As Grand Marshalls the Osmonds will participate in well over 50 events and activities during the 75th Anniversary Celebration, including:

* July 18~10:30 David Osmond at the ribbon cutting of the Children's Treehouse Museum Exhibit "How The West Was Fun"
* July 18~8:00 David Osmond and the Osmond 2nd Generation Concert at the Stewart Amphitheater. Tickets are available at Smith’s Tix and range in cost between $10.00 and $18.00.
* July 19~6:30 Alan and Suzanne and David Osmond Community Interfaith Fireside at the Ogden City Tabernacle
* July 24~9:00 Osmond Family Grand Marshalls for the OPD Parade
* July 24~7:30 David Osmond and the Osmond 2nd Generation singing the National Anthem at the OPD Rodeo

The Osmond 2nd Generation consists of Alan Osmond’s eight sons, Michael, Nathan, Douglas, David, Scott, Jon, Alex and Tyler. The group began performing together in the mid-1980s when the four oldest brothers performed on a Bob Hope TV special. Since then, the group has performed at state fairs, Disneyland, TV specials, Broadway plays and musicals and has even recorded a number of albums, including their most recent CD entitled “I Love America.” They have had 4 top 20 hit records and David Osmond was a recent finalist on American Idol. David Osmond’s current single, “Last Day,” is available exclusively on iTunes.

“A lot of people don’t realize it, but the Osmonds have a long history in Ogden and many of the Osmonds, including Donny, were born in Ogden,” said Alan E. Hall, Honorary Chairman of the 75th Anniversary Celebration Committee. “This will be a bit of a homecoming for the Osmonds and we’re thrilled to have them join us and participate as Grand Marshalls and know that their talents will be enjoyed by all who attend the parade and rodeo on the 24th of July.”

In addition to the rodeo, the Ogden Pioneer Days 75th Anniversary Celebration events and activities will also include a Pioneer Day parade, a concert by the world famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the Ogio FMX Motorcycle Flyers, National Day of the American Cowboy celebration, fireworks shows, a huge pancake breakfast, the Traces of the West art show, 61 life-sized ceramic horses that are displayed around the city and more.

About Ogden Pioneer Days 75th Celebration

Established in 1934 Ogden Pioneer Days celebrates 75 years of western life, bringing real meaning to the slogan “A tradition… make it yours.” Nominated “The Best Rodeo in America” by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), Ogden Pioneer Days 75th Anniversary Celebration combines the excitement and heart-pounding.

Source

Don Osmond NEW blog on DesNews

Don is going to be doing a new blog for the Desert News, in addition to the one he does for Mormon Times. Check out this new entry titled: DonSense: Who's Your Daddy.

http://www.deseretnews.com/blogs/1,5322,10001039,00.html