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That's Not Funny!

Long before WKRP in Cincinnati, actor Tim Reid and his friend, Tom Dreesen, were told they were funny enough to be in show business. They took that advice literally, and formed the nation's first black-and-white standup comedy act. Their marketing tools appeared naturally in place: A black youngster named Tim and the white one named Tom; even the names alliterated perfectly---leaving them the luxury of calling their act TIM & TOM.

As advisor to TIM & TOM, the author had a ringside seat, watching them make the unpredictable trek from their hometown of Harvey, Illinois to Hollywood, California. Their young wives and children were affected as each "Daddy" faced myriad challenges in his courageous and innovative foray into show business---including audiences that didn’t think much of the racial makeup of the act. But, Tim Reid and Tom Dreesen pulled their shoulders closer together when needed and persevered.

Then one day there came along a Diva, a most famed and fortuned Diva. Tim and Tom were sure this was their big break. Instead, the meeting led to more of a break-up when singing sensation Della Reese and Tim Reid went riding off in one direction, leaving Tom Dreesen to scramble off into another—as a solo act. This was also where the wives of Tim and Tom came face-to-face with the proposition of raising children for men who were headed for the big-time, but were no longer their men.

THAT'S NOT FUNNY! is author Vince Sanders’ chronicle of his work with TIM & TOM. He kept in close touch with both performers over the years to see their eventual success: Tim Reid as a noted actor, writer and film producer, and Tom Dreesen as the long-time comedy star and opening act for Sammy Davis, Jr. and Frank Sinatra.

Order That's Not Funny! from Amazon.com today. To request a media review copy fo the book, please contact Vince.