When our paths crossed, Dr. Ernesto Valdes, PhD and I, it was when I saw the Supremes Reunion Petition on “My Space”. I wrote a short article for GBMNews, followed by my first interview with this true gentleman and fan. The petition started in April 2008. Dr, Valdes has given this project blood, sweat and tears. He’s been hard at work getting the signatures, he’s spoken with Ms. Mary Wilson, to get her feedback, he’s spoken and been in contact with billions of fans. And yes, it’s something that we all want.

We are now in 2010 and Dr. Valdes is still hard at work, in making this happen. I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Ernesto Valdes . I was amazed that with his extremely busy schedule, he has found the time to push forward in making this happen, in finally making the reunion of all reunions come true. Just imagine, Diana Ross, Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong, "the Supremes" in concert. Are we closer in seeing this become a reality?

Dr. Valdes: Yes, we are close to 4,300 signatures, and I have the faith that those signatures will continue to increase. I have made several attempts to contact various newspapers, blogs, magazines, and the general media, but I have received no response.

I truly think that many think that since this dream is far-fetched, and it will never become a reality. If we were to have a vast exposure for the petition, we would have over 10, 000 signatures.

This is why I am so grateful to you and your wonderful site for giving us the opportunity to publicize this endeavor.

John: Do you think that they will be a reunion of the 1970's Supremes? The Supremes in question are Jean Terrill who replaced Diana Ross, then later Lynda Lawrence who replace Cindy Birdsong, and ending with Mary Wilson, Scherrie Payne and Susaye Greene.

Dr. Valdes: I believe that Mary Wilson has clearly stated that if there is to be a reunion, it will only include Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Cindy Birdsong.

John: You've been working on the Supremes reunion for a few years now; do you feel that the reunion will really happen?

Dr. Valdes: I still have faith that it will. Dreams do come true, as Mary has often said. We, the fans, cannot give up. Now, the ladies must also make up their minds, as they are not getting any younger.

John: Mary Wilson released a CD called, "Up-Close", which she did mostly jazz music, have you heard this CD and if so, what's your favorite song?

Dr. Valdes: Yes, I have heard the CD, and I really like it. There are several songs that I really enjoy. These include "Smile" "Here's to Life" and "Spring Is Here". As a matter of fact, I like all of them!

John: During Mary's concert's she's made comments like, "I'm ready when Diane is ready". Has Mary's comments reached back to Ms. Ross?

Dr. Valdes: I am sure Mary's comments have reached Diana. The ball is now in Diana's court.

John: The movie "Dreamgirls" painted the Diana Ross character in a more likeable light than the Broadway play. In your opinion, which is closer to the truth in regard to the Supremes story?

Dr. Valdes: In the movie, there were many aspects which were similar to the real Supremes story. Diana Ross is a likeable person. I believe that she just had to "go with the flow". However, this is the moment for all three ladies to put away their differences and give the fans what they want.

John: With your busy schedule, how do you find the time to continue this petition? Do you have someone to assist you?

Dr. Valdes: I will always find the time to pursue a dream. This is not only my dream but the dream of so many fans. Therefore, I will continue with my quest. Other fans have helped me by collecting signatures and by placing the petition link on different sites.

John: When I think of the Supremes reunion, even for one night, the money that could be made would be in the millions.

And if cable channels became involved, this would be bigger than the Beatles reunion, Fleetwood Mac and other groups that have made this happen. It appears that Diana may be the one that's not on board. In your opinion, what do you think would change the diva's mind?

Dr. Valdes: I can't speak for Diana; however, at this time, the reunion should not be centered on the money. There are more important things in life, such as giving back to the fans-the very same people who put the Supremes at the top deserve a real reunion.

John: Scherrie Payne, Lynda Lawrence, Freddi Poole and now that Ms. Poole is no longer with the group, FLOS (former ladies of the Supremes), Joyce Vincent, formerly of Tony Orlando & Dawn, has joined the former ladies. Do you feel that the Supreme fans have embraced FLOS?

Dr. Valdes: Yes, many Supreme fans have embraced the FLOS, but a "former member" is not enough. I give credit to all the ladies for keeping the dream alive, but the "main" dream should involve Diana, Mary and Cindy.

The end result was that this tour was not successful and was cancelled. Many loyal fans felt that they had been robbed from a lifetime dream, to see Cindy Birdsong, Diana Ross and Mary Wilson on stage one more time. If in the near future, if Diana agreed to a reunion special, a one night only performance, where do you feel this event should take place?

Dr. Valdes: At this point, my answer would be any venue. I am sure that the fans will be satisfied with the venue the ladies select. The main thing is for this reunion to take place.

John: We've seen the movie, "Dreamgirls" and we've seen the Broadway play, "Dreamgirls", if the Supremes story were made into a movie, which three actresses would you like to see play Diana, Mary, Florence and Cindy?

Dr. Valdes: I haven't given this much thought; however, since Jennifer Hudson was so magnificent playing what appeared to be Florence Ballard's part, I would select Ms. Hudson to play Flo.

John: I've received notes from Mary throughout the years; one for a CD order that was misplaced, Mary sent a note of apology.

Dr. Valdes: I keep in touch with Mary Wilson frequently. As a matter of fact, I will be going to Palm Beach, Florida in December to see her in her Up-Close show for the New Year. Ms. Wilson is fully aware of the petition and our efforts.

John: I know that this question can change from time to time, so I will ask you again, what's your favorite Supreme song?

Dr. Valdes: I really like them all, but if I had to pick one, it would have to be "You Can't Hurry Love".

John: This is my last question, why is this reunion of the Supremes important to you?

Dr. Valdes: The reunion is important not only to me but to so many fans. In my case, the Supremes mean so much. I have been a fan since I was 12 years old. I have grown with the Supremes.

I have smiled with the Supremes. I have cried with the Supremes. If I were to write the story of my life, an entire chapter would be written about the ladies and how they have influenced my life.

If you wish you add your name to the petition, click here: Supremes Reunion