As many of you are aware, The Ventures headed off as usual to Japan for their annual January tour of concert clubs. This year was not business as usual, however. First of all, Bob Spalding’s flight from Austin was cancelled meaning that he was unable to make his connection to Tokyo – as a result, he arrived there a day late. Leon was returning from an overseas vacation, and spent well over 24 hours en route to Japan. The first show in Osaka went as planned but Don was complaining of stomach pain and did not feel at all well. The next day, our tour director in Japan, Yasu, took Don to the hospital and it was found that he had internal bleeding in his stomach which could have been life-threatening had they waited any longer. Don stayed in the hospital for several days and was unable to perform for the next 3 dates. While he was being very well looked after by the doctors in Osaka, The Ventures made sure that ‘the show must go on’ and it did – as a trio – Gerry, Bob and Leon. Thanks to the fans, the shows were still a success. Don was released from the hospital and travelled back to Tokyo: the doctors said that he was nothing short of a miracle – his progress was amazing. He performed at the last 3 shows in Tokyo and returned to the US as scheduled. Of course, we are all very grateful too everyone in Japan who helped Don and brought him back to health. Now, he is preparing for his 80th birthday and will be celebrating with friends and family on Sunday, February 10. I know that all our fans will be wishing him continued good health and many more years to come!