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Models have come and gone here at TWV divas but few make the Hall of Fame. In fact we've had years no one was inducted at all! I wanted to bring that all to the forefront because when Linda O Neil became eligible for entry it was a complete no brainer for to her to be inducted.
I learned early on that despite Linda's overwhelming popularity she had a better attitude then models who had far less on their resumes. Back in 2000 I attended my first ever model convention in Indiana called the NetModel Expo. I usually speak about everything in glowing terms on the site, but just so you'll understand just how much a class act Linda is I'll going to give some dirt this time. Unlike most events which are fan-oriented and media is there as media, this event was open season. Which meant it wasn't easy getting to talk to anyone since photographers were busily trying to set up shoots with the models. Unfortunately being new and not wanting to cost anyone work I spent a lot of time waiting around to speak with models only to be cut short by yet another photographer or industry person. Being new and unestablished I just dealt with it. Going through that I expected my time with Linda to be extremely brief. It was to my surprise and happiness that when someone tried to interrupt my conversion with Linda she wouldn't have it! Even though my site was new and she was meeting me for the first time Linda treated me with the utmost courtesy, respect, and kindness.
Now sometime between there and the following year Linda asked me about good conventions to attend on the east coast, wanting to meet more of her fans there. I recommended a NJ offering called the Super Mega Show and was stunned (and thrilled) when Linda showed up at the show! Linda drew a huge crowd to he table including at least one of the celebrity guests in attendance that day! When I went over to say "hi" Linda was quick to thank me for recommending the show to her.
The next year I was lucky enough to see Linda again, this time and the Vintage and Modern Pin Ups show which had come to NJ. Again Linda shined. The father of a friend of mine was an aspiring photographer and I had run into him at the show. By this time I was established and able to introduce him to several models. While many models charged to have their picture taken, Linda again came through as when I introduced him to her, she was more than willing to let him snap some photos free of charge. In fact I had to cut him off since he got a bit carried away with the opportunity!
Sadly I would not see Linda again until I attended Glamourcon 37 in 2005. Despite not seeing me for a few years, Linda still recognized me and it was great to catch up. Recently I learned Linda's site had shut down. While it's sad to lose such a great standard bearer for the site, I'm happy to have the opportunity to honor this great lady. Please join me in welcoming Linda 'O Neil into the TWV Divas Hall of Fame.