Susie Duncan Sexton's Blog, page 24
April 16, 2013
work like hell to stop the madness with no apologies
i am bleeding inside from the horror inflicted on all sentient beings, the casual slaughter...when we stop that then we stop murdering each other. thanks to those of you with generous and gracious hearts!
...animals face terror and uncertainty and human beings with no brains (but streaks of mean-ness) every nano-second of every day. HOW can most human mammals NOT ever relate to this kind of all-encompassing fear that we foist either through apathy or vicious cruelty on sentient, innocent beings minding their own business.
i cry alllll the time...absolutely alllll the time. but i post to save lives ... just possibly to save lives and to heighten awareness. i used to look away...now i see the slight hope in these eyes and i hope to give them ALL (oh, how i wish) another final chance when they cooperate in posing for a photograph for their last moment of help and acceptance and acknowledgement extended by a thinking and caring human.
i am totally horrifed daily, nightly and in betweenly...arghhhhh.
i am stunned at the ability folks have to just totally ignore suffering.
adopting just one animal? oh, what that could mean... we are vegans now. how can anybody remain clueless in this unleashed universe of information and communication we are evolving into? how can any human being be content NOW contemplating one's own precious navel and rewarding "self" at every turn and totally block out the good that can be done for disenfranchised mammals be they human or animal?
ACTIVELY help...just reach out...just relate to the tragedy...just speak up...and make a move NOW! not difficult...not at all. all sentient, feeling beings deserve respect.
what a sad world...what a needlessly sad world. if a person claims to care about humanity, the assignment i would suggest (and the test i would administer) is DO YOU CARE ABOUT ANIMALS; for if you truly do THE WORLD WILL BE naturally and effortlessly PEACEFUL.
one cannot understand people without first observing and appreciating animals...that's a given. there is no difference between the human animal and all other sentient beings...all matter.
some people will do anything for money ... blood money and blithely go on their merry sanctimonious way. people know what fear for their own safety is...but seem to not empathize with the very fear they themselves cause and too often profit from. i am beyond frustrated with the human RACE!
killing fields running the gamut occurring in our nation are sad indeed. we are awash in violence one way or another. true compassion must right our country. what we do to animals without blinking an eye has come home to roost...sensitization seems a lost cause. horrors abound.
WE can stop the murderous mentality...we are fools not to stop cold. no rationalizations accepted. killing is killing...it is all around us. this nation should be shamed by now into reason. how many more daily statistics are we going to accrue? we should all be depressed and that should spur action. nothing wrong with depression...it is an honest response.
i cannot imagine how any thinking person cannot see this and work like hell to stop the madness with no apologies
we can turn this around with determination in speaking up and bold action. time for everybody on earth to face the tragic facts and to realize that love is easy...reverence for life is easy. empathy is natural...apathy is criminal.
_________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
...animals face terror and uncertainty and human beings with no brains (but streaks of mean-ness) every nano-second of every day. HOW can most human mammals NOT ever relate to this kind of all-encompassing fear that we foist either through apathy or vicious cruelty on sentient, innocent beings minding their own business.
i cry alllll the time...absolutely alllll the time. but i post to save lives ... just possibly to save lives and to heighten awareness. i used to look away...now i see the slight hope in these eyes and i hope to give them ALL (oh, how i wish) another final chance when they cooperate in posing for a photograph for their last moment of help and acceptance and acknowledgement extended by a thinking and caring human.
i am totally horrifed daily, nightly and in betweenly...arghhhhh.
i am stunned at the ability folks have to just totally ignore suffering.
adopting just one animal? oh, what that could mean... we are vegans now. how can anybody remain clueless in this unleashed universe of information and communication we are evolving into? how can any human being be content NOW contemplating one's own precious navel and rewarding "self" at every turn and totally block out the good that can be done for disenfranchised mammals be they human or animal?
ACTIVELY help...just reach out...just relate to the tragedy...just speak up...and make a move NOW! not difficult...not at all. all sentient, feeling beings deserve respect.
what a sad world...what a needlessly sad world. if a person claims to care about humanity, the assignment i would suggest (and the test i would administer) is DO YOU CARE ABOUT ANIMALS; for if you truly do THE WORLD WILL BE naturally and effortlessly PEACEFUL.
one cannot understand people without first observing and appreciating animals...that's a given. there is no difference between the human animal and all other sentient beings...all matter.
some people will do anything for money ... blood money and blithely go on their merry sanctimonious way. people know what fear for their own safety is...but seem to not empathize with the very fear they themselves cause and too often profit from. i am beyond frustrated with the human RACE!
killing fields running the gamut occurring in our nation are sad indeed. we are awash in violence one way or another. true compassion must right our country. what we do to animals without blinking an eye has come home to roost...sensitization seems a lost cause. horrors abound.
WE can stop the murderous mentality...we are fools not to stop cold. no rationalizations accepted. killing is killing...it is all around us. this nation should be shamed by now into reason. how many more daily statistics are we going to accrue? we should all be depressed and that should spur action. nothing wrong with depression...it is an honest response.
i cannot imagine how any thinking person cannot see this and work like hell to stop the madness with no apologies
we can turn this around with determination in speaking up and bold action. time for everybody on earth to face the tragic facts and to realize that love is easy...reverence for life is easy. empathy is natural...apathy is criminal.
_________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
April 11, 2013
Latest Homeward Angle: Rat Packs, Hoosier Lobbyists, & Blind Boys!
Ring a ding ding! My latest column is a survey of spring adventures with Sammy and Frank and Dino, Garfield creator Jim Davis, Senator Jim Banks and a new band of animal supporters, and gospel singing superstars The Blind Boys of Alabama! View the original scanned article here...
Latest Homeward Angle: Rat Packs, Hoosier Lobbyists, & Blind Boys! By Susie Duncan Sexton
True, I seem to qualify as a participant in a "clique" of folks a bit more advanced in age, experience and hard-won wisdom…who also specialize in nostalgic FUN! For instance, classmate Dr. Harry Staley notified me that he often accompanied his dad after sunset to assist in repairing the Blue Bell factory's countless sewing machines. Don York shared that Harry's dad, Harry, Sr., at one time got pulled into one of those contraptions which began swallowing his necktie but stopped within inches of Mr. Staley's nose. Lucy Langohr (Grant), now of North Carolina, lamented that she never convinced her dad, "Dr. John", to construct a playhouse precisely as wondrous as that miniature domicile of neighborhood playmate Linda Gates (Sabo). Lucy's sister Judy often borrowed the small horse next door (on Main Street!) to trot alongside pint-sized equestrienne Jo Ellen Adams (McConnell) throughout town! Louise Easterday recalls riding into Columbia City with her parents to purchase the family's weekly supply of milk from Holden's Dairy Farm nestled adjacent to the former Jim Adams home, which now serves as the Whitley County Community Foundation headquarters. Those were the days!
Quite recently, Don and I in our own unique manner revisited our past…those amazing sixties when a crew, whom Lauren Bacall dubbed "Rat Pack", ruled. Ring a ding ding! Ft. Wayne's Embassy Theater series featured impersonators of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., comedian Joey Bishop, and a young fellow who resembled Dean Martin so closely that I wished to bring him home to live with us after the show. Now, "ain't that a kick in the head, pal-ly?" More accustomed to once lounging in the dark, ages ago, viewing Atticus Finch relaxing on a Southern porch swing with Jem and Scout, or Dr. Zhivago admiring Lara as she irons shirts in revolutionary Russia, or a peroxided Peter O'Toole on camel-back prowling Arabian deserts, the witnessing of four live Rat-Packers swilling martinis, smoking cigarettes, guffawing at slightly racist misogynistic barroom jokes while enduring mercilessly scorching spot-lights seemed a bit jarring. Still, those guys assuaged winter doldrums, perking up our psyches considerably.
Next, on brisk yet beautiful March 12th, Don and I participated in one of the most joyous times of our lives. Hoosier Humane Lobby Day! We journeyed to Indianapolis toward a sublime building housing the Eugene & Martha Glick Indiana History Center on West Ohio Street. Inside we discovered Cole Porter, Abe Lincoln, and possibly might have encountered Theodore Dreiser, Paul Dresser, Ernie Pyle, Red Skelton, Carole Lombard, James Whitcomb Riley and the gang if we'd had more time at our disposal. But we were on a mission. Acknowledging that petition signing and letter writing seldom sway politicians who wish to appease majorities of fickle voters and grease the squeakiest of wheels and raise obscene quantities of campaign funds, we joined like-minded advocates in standing up -- in person -- for Indiana wildlife, farm animals, domesticated pets, waterfowl, and incidental reptiles and amphibians. "Oh, a lobbying we go! Armed with compassion, not dough!" We enjoyed a terrifically organized pre-workshop, endured endless marble floors underfoot at the State House, and waited patiently in the hall outside the Senate and House chambers to speak FACE TO FACE AND SEVERAL ON ONE with our "representatives" concerning past, current and future legislation which should benefit rather than destroy sentient beings. "Do unto others should not be limited to other humans." (-Anthony Douglas Williams, "Inside the Divine Pattern")
Fellow Hoosiers encountered during that super Tuesday included: Sen. Jim Banks graciously promising to watch the films "Earthlings" and "Bold Native"; two "rescued-from-death-row-shelter-situations" service dogs -- a tiny Chihuahua mix named "Tia" who detects impending diabetic seizures and a stunning Pit Bull mix called "Coal" who searches for cadavers and unearths weapons -- advocating alongside the rest of us 60 earnest, determined individuals; an African-American veterinarian who once treated Lincoln Park Zoo's "big cats" and who knows Tippi Hedren; a NoKill shelter board president; and Governor Mike Pence's assistant listening to our concerns at the close of a hectic, meaningful day devoted to animal welfare, assuring their rights for peaceful lives. Matthew 25:45 -- "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not unto one of these least, ye did it not unto me."
We returned home exhausted but elated to receive an e-mail message from our great college friend located in Muncie, Jim Davis, the creator of the "Garfield the Cat" comic strip! While posting photos of the day's event on Facebook, phone to ear I chatted with impressive rheumatologist Dr. Harry Staley who offered to take a look at my arthritic dilemmas as well as my psoriasis. Guess what? He's located in Indy. Informing him that we had JUST returned from windy Indy, he stated very doctor-like, "Well, I usually am too busy to admit walk-ins, but I would have loved to say 'Hi!'" I replied, "Harry, after several hours of Indianapolis staircases, endless sidewalk pounding, advocating in a non-politicized manner for Hoosier animal causes, and five hours in a car, I am NO WALK-IN…more like a CRAWL-IN -- on all fours which emphasizes my ability to relate to and empathize with my four-footed pals!"
Although March entered and exited like a lamb, we whirl winded continually from start to finish! The Blind Boys of Alabama AND Don and Susie partied at the Grand Wayne Center following that award-winning gospel ensemble's fabulous Embassy Theater performance of foot-stomping, hand-clapping, jubilant, jazzy spiritual tributes to heaven above and earth below. "Since their formation over 70 years ago, The Blind Boys of Alabama's self-proclaimed goal is to spiritually uplift audiences. The gospel group has also been a source of inspiration for those with disabilities. In the words of one of the group’s blind members, Ricky Mckinnie, 'Our disability doesn’t have to be a handicap. It's not about what you can't do. It's about what you do. And what we do is sing good gospel music.'" -- (Wikipedia) Earlier in the lobby, we purchased two CDs, one DVD and a pair of autographed drum-sticks which Don proceeded to lose when they rolled under the spike-heeled shoes of the lady seated next to him…our commotion in retrieving our treasure drew marked disdain from a WASP seated near us, but the trio of affable singers -- including "Jimmy Carter", an original participant since 1939 --only smiled our way! Their next gig would include the Land Down Under, Australia! Our bonus involved a reunion with Chuck and Linda Chapman, former Ft. Wayne neighbors of nearly 30 years past, who volunteered as ushers. Chuck's dad Reid ("Chuckles") managed WANE-TV nearly from its inception and was a cousin to long-time local banker Don Alberty…small world!
Since Easter week-end got squeezed, as often happens, into the final calendar days of March, we completed the month -- when everybody and his brother "deserve" a Florida vacation -- with another of our enviable (?) ritualistic movie marathons. Check out www.reelroyreviews.com for a "reel" good time to see what our family watched sprawled "inside a darkened living room" between "rounds of canasta, computer maintenance, and the finest dining small town Indiana can muster…" and linger awhile for online critiques that rival those of Gene Siskel & Roger Ebert combined.
____________________
neat feedback on the latest column!
Barb Nicholson: "Another fine piece of writing! You can never say your folks lay around the house and do nothing!"
Bev Sexton: "Loved it....thanks for sending...."
Ruth Wilkins: "Roy, this is so very beautifully cool -- thanks so much for sharing!"
Laurie LaRue Bills: "Love!"
Simone Duffin: "Thank you ♥"
Drex Morton: "Your article... another 'tour de force,' Susie. I was envious of your Easter Celebration but felt as if I had been alongside you through the "Ides of March" plus days before & afterward. From A to Z, you and Don certainly seized the Month!"
Tara Hullinger: "Another superb piece by the always lovely, charming, and witty Susie Sexton. If you haven't had the pleasure of reading any of her work, you should take the time to do so, you'll be glad you did!"
Colleen Hornidge: "Great pictures Susie..xo..ellie"
Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "Loving Susie!"
Naida Austin: "Excellent! Thank you, Susie!"
Mina Linda: "Fantastic Susie <3 :)"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
Latest Homeward Angle: Rat Packs, Hoosier Lobbyists, & Blind Boys! By Susie Duncan Sexton
True, I seem to qualify as a participant in a "clique" of folks a bit more advanced in age, experience and hard-won wisdom…who also specialize in nostalgic FUN! For instance, classmate Dr. Harry Staley notified me that he often accompanied his dad after sunset to assist in repairing the Blue Bell factory's countless sewing machines. Don York shared that Harry's dad, Harry, Sr., at one time got pulled into one of those contraptions which began swallowing his necktie but stopped within inches of Mr. Staley's nose. Lucy Langohr (Grant), now of North Carolina, lamented that she never convinced her dad, "Dr. John", to construct a playhouse precisely as wondrous as that miniature domicile of neighborhood playmate Linda Gates (Sabo). Lucy's sister Judy often borrowed the small horse next door (on Main Street!) to trot alongside pint-sized equestrienne Jo Ellen Adams (McConnell) throughout town! Louise Easterday recalls riding into Columbia City with her parents to purchase the family's weekly supply of milk from Holden's Dairy Farm nestled adjacent to the former Jim Adams home, which now serves as the Whitley County Community Foundation headquarters. Those were the days!
Quite recently, Don and I in our own unique manner revisited our past…those amazing sixties when a crew, whom Lauren Bacall dubbed "Rat Pack", ruled. Ring a ding ding! Ft. Wayne's Embassy Theater series featured impersonators of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., comedian Joey Bishop, and a young fellow who resembled Dean Martin so closely that I wished to bring him home to live with us after the show. Now, "ain't that a kick in the head, pal-ly?" More accustomed to once lounging in the dark, ages ago, viewing Atticus Finch relaxing on a Southern porch swing with Jem and Scout, or Dr. Zhivago admiring Lara as she irons shirts in revolutionary Russia, or a peroxided Peter O'Toole on camel-back prowling Arabian deserts, the witnessing of four live Rat-Packers swilling martinis, smoking cigarettes, guffawing at slightly racist misogynistic barroom jokes while enduring mercilessly scorching spot-lights seemed a bit jarring. Still, those guys assuaged winter doldrums, perking up our psyches considerably.
Next, on brisk yet beautiful March 12th, Don and I participated in one of the most joyous times of our lives. Hoosier Humane Lobby Day! We journeyed to Indianapolis toward a sublime building housing the Eugene & Martha Glick Indiana History Center on West Ohio Street. Inside we discovered Cole Porter, Abe Lincoln, and possibly might have encountered Theodore Dreiser, Paul Dresser, Ernie Pyle, Red Skelton, Carole Lombard, James Whitcomb Riley and the gang if we'd had more time at our disposal. But we were on a mission. Acknowledging that petition signing and letter writing seldom sway politicians who wish to appease majorities of fickle voters and grease the squeakiest of wheels and raise obscene quantities of campaign funds, we joined like-minded advocates in standing up -- in person -- for Indiana wildlife, farm animals, domesticated pets, waterfowl, and incidental reptiles and amphibians. "Oh, a lobbying we go! Armed with compassion, not dough!" We enjoyed a terrifically organized pre-workshop, endured endless marble floors underfoot at the State House, and waited patiently in the hall outside the Senate and House chambers to speak FACE TO FACE AND SEVERAL ON ONE with our "representatives" concerning past, current and future legislation which should benefit rather than destroy sentient beings. "Do unto others should not be limited to other humans." (-Anthony Douglas Williams, "Inside the Divine Pattern")
Fellow Hoosiers encountered during that super Tuesday included: Sen. Jim Banks graciously promising to watch the films "Earthlings" and "Bold Native"; two "rescued-from-death-row-shelter-situations" service dogs -- a tiny Chihuahua mix named "Tia" who detects impending diabetic seizures and a stunning Pit Bull mix called "Coal" who searches for cadavers and unearths weapons -- advocating alongside the rest of us 60 earnest, determined individuals; an African-American veterinarian who once treated Lincoln Park Zoo's "big cats" and who knows Tippi Hedren; a NoKill shelter board president; and Governor Mike Pence's assistant listening to our concerns at the close of a hectic, meaningful day devoted to animal welfare, assuring their rights for peaceful lives. Matthew 25:45 -- "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not unto one of these least, ye did it not unto me."
We returned home exhausted but elated to receive an e-mail message from our great college friend located in Muncie, Jim Davis, the creator of the "Garfield the Cat" comic strip! While posting photos of the day's event on Facebook, phone to ear I chatted with impressive rheumatologist Dr. Harry Staley who offered to take a look at my arthritic dilemmas as well as my psoriasis. Guess what? He's located in Indy. Informing him that we had JUST returned from windy Indy, he stated very doctor-like, "Well, I usually am too busy to admit walk-ins, but I would have loved to say 'Hi!'" I replied, "Harry, after several hours of Indianapolis staircases, endless sidewalk pounding, advocating in a non-politicized manner for Hoosier animal causes, and five hours in a car, I am NO WALK-IN…more like a CRAWL-IN -- on all fours which emphasizes my ability to relate to and empathize with my four-footed pals!"
Although March entered and exited like a lamb, we whirl winded continually from start to finish! The Blind Boys of Alabama AND Don and Susie partied at the Grand Wayne Center following that award-winning gospel ensemble's fabulous Embassy Theater performance of foot-stomping, hand-clapping, jubilant, jazzy spiritual tributes to heaven above and earth below. "Since their formation over 70 years ago, The Blind Boys of Alabama's self-proclaimed goal is to spiritually uplift audiences. The gospel group has also been a source of inspiration for those with disabilities. In the words of one of the group’s blind members, Ricky Mckinnie, 'Our disability doesn’t have to be a handicap. It's not about what you can't do. It's about what you do. And what we do is sing good gospel music.'" -- (Wikipedia) Earlier in the lobby, we purchased two CDs, one DVD and a pair of autographed drum-sticks which Don proceeded to lose when they rolled under the spike-heeled shoes of the lady seated next to him…our commotion in retrieving our treasure drew marked disdain from a WASP seated near us, but the trio of affable singers -- including "Jimmy Carter", an original participant since 1939 --only smiled our way! Their next gig would include the Land Down Under, Australia! Our bonus involved a reunion with Chuck and Linda Chapman, former Ft. Wayne neighbors of nearly 30 years past, who volunteered as ushers. Chuck's dad Reid ("Chuckles") managed WANE-TV nearly from its inception and was a cousin to long-time local banker Don Alberty…small world!
Since Easter week-end got squeezed, as often happens, into the final calendar days of March, we completed the month -- when everybody and his brother "deserve" a Florida vacation -- with another of our enviable (?) ritualistic movie marathons. Check out www.reelroyreviews.com for a "reel" good time to see what our family watched sprawled "inside a darkened living room" between "rounds of canasta, computer maintenance, and the finest dining small town Indiana can muster…" and linger awhile for online critiques that rival those of Gene Siskel & Roger Ebert combined.
____________________
neat feedback on the latest column!
Barb Nicholson: "Another fine piece of writing! You can never say your folks lay around the house and do nothing!"
Bev Sexton: "Loved it....thanks for sending...."
Ruth Wilkins: "Roy, this is so very beautifully cool -- thanks so much for sharing!"
Laurie LaRue Bills: "Love!"
Simone Duffin: "Thank you ♥"
Drex Morton: "Your article... another 'tour de force,' Susie. I was envious of your Easter Celebration but felt as if I had been alongside you through the "Ides of March" plus days before & afterward. From A to Z, you and Don certainly seized the Month!"
Tara Hullinger: "Another superb piece by the always lovely, charming, and witty Susie Sexton. If you haven't had the pleasure of reading any of her work, you should take the time to do so, you'll be glad you did!"
Colleen Hornidge: "Great pictures Susie..xo..ellie"
Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "Loving Susie!"
Naida Austin: "Excellent! Thank you, Susie!"
Mina Linda: "Fantastic Susie <3 :)"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
March 20, 2013
From the Old Type Writer: Do you know these ladies?
Read the original post on Talk of the Town here....
message sent to talented Talk of the Town editor Jennifer Zartman Romano along with the above photo...
Jennifer, remember when you discovered one of your missing school medals around Christmastime 2012, and I entered on your Facebook page that I, too, had experienced a Back to Sanity moment simultaneously and had re-discovered a yellowing newspaper from 1967 which I had borrowed from Don York 26 years ago? Well, I returned the "Whitley County Observer" to former Blue Bell employee Don whose photograph appears there "...weighing and marking each box to send them on their way to the trucks waiting at the boarding docks"! Featured in the "Focus on Blue Bell" photo-story, I counted nearly 50 "candid camera" type black and white pictures of industrious, energetic employees crafting Wrangler jeans and dungarees and overalls from bolts of denim into spiffy, finished products ready to clothe American kids, farmers, car-washing dads, truckers, golfers, teenagers on hayrides, ranchers, etc. from sea to shining sea...and beyond our borders! Step by loving step, fingers flying at top speed, machines well-oiled and whirring away, those pix bring a crucial part of local history back to life!
So, Friday, Mr. York, who is eternally grateful that I retrieved his treasured newspaper, traded this terrific photograph of "The Blue Bell Choraliers", and we both remain happy! However, I attempted a few months ago to pursue this topic of ladies -- from the plant -- frequently garbed in choir robes or formals gathering to sing their wondrous songs all about this community. My fact-gathering amounted to zilch, even though I consulted with "Blue Bell Family" members Bill Winters and Evelyn Zumbrun who both rate as superior wells of limitless information.
Thus, I submit this photo to you to run in my Old Type Writer spot so that we can garner some retro-information which will allow me to proceed with a column. Former Blue Bell employee Deb Lowrance and I have discussed a Blue Bell factory reunion sometime in the future to be held in one of the lovely rooms at the Peabody Library. Blue Bell closed its doors 35 years ago in the spring of 1978 , largely due to globalization. So, a special remembrance soiree would be well-timed. The group photo is attached...I recognize Mrs. B. V. Widney, my dad's secretary Phyllis Mattix, Don York's wife Marilee, and Marjorie Cullimore Freeman. Several of these women's faces seem quite familiar to me, but I am clueless as to their names because, indeed, I am an OLD Type Writer! ;D
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
"Our Old Type Writer columnist and local history expert Susie Duncan Sexton has provided a great historic photograph - but she needs our help. Do you recognize any of the women in this photograph of the Blue Bell Factory choir? Susie says she recognizes Mrs. B. V. Widney, factory secretary Phyllis Mattix, Marilee York and Marjorie Cullimore Freeman. Do you know anyone else? If you can help identify anyone in this photograph, please contact Susie Duncan Sexton..."
message sent to talented Talk of the Town editor Jennifer Zartman Romano along with the above photo...
Jennifer, remember when you discovered one of your missing school medals around Christmastime 2012, and I entered on your Facebook page that I, too, had experienced a Back to Sanity moment simultaneously and had re-discovered a yellowing newspaper from 1967 which I had borrowed from Don York 26 years ago? Well, I returned the "Whitley County Observer" to former Blue Bell employee Don whose photograph appears there "...weighing and marking each box to send them on their way to the trucks waiting at the boarding docks"! Featured in the "Focus on Blue Bell" photo-story, I counted nearly 50 "candid camera" type black and white pictures of industrious, energetic employees crafting Wrangler jeans and dungarees and overalls from bolts of denim into spiffy, finished products ready to clothe American kids, farmers, car-washing dads, truckers, golfers, teenagers on hayrides, ranchers, etc. from sea to shining sea...and beyond our borders! Step by loving step, fingers flying at top speed, machines well-oiled and whirring away, those pix bring a crucial part of local history back to life!
So, Friday, Mr. York, who is eternally grateful that I retrieved his treasured newspaper, traded this terrific photograph of "The Blue Bell Choraliers", and we both remain happy! However, I attempted a few months ago to pursue this topic of ladies -- from the plant -- frequently garbed in choir robes or formals gathering to sing their wondrous songs all about this community. My fact-gathering amounted to zilch, even though I consulted with "Blue Bell Family" members Bill Winters and Evelyn Zumbrun who both rate as superior wells of limitless information.
Thus, I submit this photo to you to run in my Old Type Writer spot so that we can garner some retro-information which will allow me to proceed with a column. Former Blue Bell employee Deb Lowrance and I have discussed a Blue Bell factory reunion sometime in the future to be held in one of the lovely rooms at the Peabody Library. Blue Bell closed its doors 35 years ago in the spring of 1978 , largely due to globalization. So, a special remembrance soiree would be well-timed. The group photo is attached...I recognize Mrs. B. V. Widney, my dad's secretary Phyllis Mattix, Don York's wife Marilee, and Marjorie Cullimore Freeman. Several of these women's faces seem quite familiar to me, but I am clueless as to their names because, indeed, I am an OLD Type Writer! ;D
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
March 18, 2013
time to reinvent farm LIFE! oppose SB 373
very important story on yahoo! about your rights to know how animals are treated in the farming/food "industry"...click here to read...
need to stop the bullying and torture extended to all animals...privacy issues are vital, but gentleness is even more crucial in this world! please do not extend an open invitation to heap more misery on farm animals that are purposely bred for slaughter.
consumption of their cadavers leads to heart attacks, breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes 1 & 2, parkinson's disease and most tragic of all, hardened hearts no longer capable of compassion.
we must no longer assure a continuation of artificial insemination and butchering and perpetuation of human illness due to cannibalism.
please watch those videos now available on facebook...and the films and documentaries BOLD NATIVE, FOOD INC., and EARTHLINGS. let us stop the intentional over-reproduction of sentient beings to be enslaved and treated in a holocaust fashion. time to evolve and not to politicize death over life!
hoosier bill to go before house...please care...please share...please contact your indiana representatives and thanks!
click here to let your voice be heard...
urge your representatives to vote against S.B. 373 because it 1) takes away basic American freedoms of speech and expression 2) whistle blower protection is already part of federal law and finally 3) what is the farm/food industry afraid of? if their operations are inhumane and/or criminal how else will the consumer be informed?
please, do not care about red carpets, photo ops, tiger woods' new love affair, the pregnant princess...very much more to care about. do not be distracted or diverted from issues that truly matter...life or death, love or hate, action or inaction.
stand up and speak out to make a difference...we pay taxes, and we vote. those opportunists we allow into office need to care as much as we do about what truly matters and stop answering to big money for future campaigns. all who live matter, all sentient beings...not just a few...not just a chosen few!
a smart lawyer and also don have often spoken of career politicians...a really bad concept...these youngsters have studied the process at college and get bought and stay bought and never intend to go away...what was the supreme court thinking? lord!
omigosh...when it appears some of our state legislators are authoring a jillion bills per week...they ain't! those are decrees from some high muckety mucks on some shining national hill. don opined that as we returned from indy...damn, he was correct!
and through gerrymandering and caucusing these careerists ease into their desk sets and thereby hangs the tale! and some national interests use them like puppets! and the states are getting sucked into hell. it's like they are working at a fast food joint flipping burgers.
i am so sick and tired of people politicizing animal slaughter...and those who could do something want to be thought "well" of???? those who sanction killing should never ever be thought well of, no matter what "party" they are beholden to...our voices for what is correct are growing stronger, and it is way past time for those who wish to hold office to listen and to give a damn about murder and mass slaughter. our nation should be better than this.
____________________
great feedback!
Larry Jaffe: "Amen."
Mina Linda: "I agree with Susie!"
Tyler A. Chase: "This is not about privacy. It's about criminals and sadists who can't seem to help themselves from torturing animals. This ban of cameras and video evidence is un American and against our basic Constitutional Rights to know what we are eating and how the animals are being treated is important. Enough of this nonsense of favoring the industries who are killing us with bad food."
Jean Armstrong, "Good Luck to you and Susie on this important issue!!!"
Kelly Huddleston: "Great post, Susie!"
Roland Vincent: "It is so satisfying to connect with someone who shares one's values and has the battle scars to prove it! No offense about the battle scar comment - lol, just figured you've got your share!"
"allllll over my little body" as jonathan winters used to say! i have been wounded so f-ing many times, i cannot believe i did not return to my original planet by now.
Dee Turner: "You really have to ask yourself: What are the people in the meat industry trying to HIDE!! Apart from animal protection rights, our human right to know what goes on 'inside' is embedded in the constitution and oversight is critical. We already know about countless abuses: inferior feed, growth hormones, antibiotics in the feed to keep animals well enough through their shortened lives. The overcrowding is unacceptable, lack of sanitary conditions, the birthing stalls for sows are cruel & prevent ANY movement by pigs. Animal cruelty is rampant which undercover videos have clearly exposed in all areas of factory farming: chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, cows, goats, and horses! Beyond all of this, the slaughter has been proven to be INhumane, cruelty violations that go unpunished or corrected, abuses in shipping to slaughter, and even afterwards, the trucking industry FAILS to keep the raw meat properly refrigerated, and processing machines disinfected allowing listeria, ecoli, salmonella & other bacterial infected meat to be sold, sickening, even killing consumers. Perhaps this is why we need a complete overhaul of the entire farm/food industry & those who have violated the law must be prosecuted or nothing will ever change."
Paro Babu: "true lines : 'Sweet truth for the animals! Except for species, I become increasingly aware of the parallel to slavery, the way we treat the animals. stand up and speak out to make a difference...we pay taxes, and we vote. those opportunists we allow into office need to care as much as we do about what truly matters and stop answering to big money for future campaigns. all who live matter, all sentient beings...not just a few...not just a chosen few!' love you, Susie ♥ and Roy for sharing this with us."
____________________
postscript from dee...
Dee Turner: "If you put this plea in Susie's blog it will reach more people who care about innocent pets. Brindi has been caged up for over 4 YEARS without having committed any crime ... simply because she is an animal! Halifax 'authorities' have abused their own by laws & covered it up repeatedly, lying in court. Fighting to save her beloved dog's life has almost completely bankrupted Francesca & the endless corruption by HRM is appalling. Apr 2nd she has to be prepared for the FINAL APPEAL TO SAVE BRINDI & every single dollar will go towards the spiralling legal costs. If many give just whatever amount they can afford, it will reduce the financial woes caused by this injustice & together we could set an important precedent to stop others from this needless suffering! It has been a nightmare for Brindi & Francesca and time is running out now... THANK YOU for whatever you can do to get some support on their behalf. Godspeed!"
click here to help!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
Animal welfare advocates say all of the focus on secrecy is energy misspent.
"I wish the cattlemen actually wanted to stop cruelty, not the documenting of cruelty," said HSUS California director Jennifer Fearing. "One could think of a thousand ways for them to actually stop cruelty rather than waiting for people to make videos and turn them over."
need to stop the bullying and torture extended to all animals...privacy issues are vital, but gentleness is even more crucial in this world! please do not extend an open invitation to heap more misery on farm animals that are purposely bred for slaughter.
consumption of their cadavers leads to heart attacks, breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes 1 & 2, parkinson's disease and most tragic of all, hardened hearts no longer capable of compassion.
we must no longer assure a continuation of artificial insemination and butchering and perpetuation of human illness due to cannibalism.
please watch those videos now available on facebook...and the films and documentaries BOLD NATIVE, FOOD INC., and EARTHLINGS. let us stop the intentional over-reproduction of sentient beings to be enslaved and treated in a holocaust fashion. time to evolve and not to politicize death over life!
hoosier bill to go before house...please care...please share...please contact your indiana representatives and thanks!
click here to let your voice be heard...
urge your representatives to vote against S.B. 373 because it 1) takes away basic American freedoms of speech and expression 2) whistle blower protection is already part of federal law and finally 3) what is the farm/food industry afraid of? if their operations are inhumane and/or criminal how else will the consumer be informed?
"Americans for Prosperity, a conservative group funded by Charles and David Koch, billionaire brothers and influential conservative leaders...donated more than $200,000 to Indiana Gov. Mike Pence's campaign." - Maureen Hayden, Statehouse Bureau Chief for CNHI
please, do not care about red carpets, photo ops, tiger woods' new love affair, the pregnant princess...very much more to care about. do not be distracted or diverted from issues that truly matter...life or death, love or hate, action or inaction.
"Sweet truth for the animals! Except for species, I become increasingly aware of the parallel to slavery, the way we treat the animals. About racism in America, John Howard Griffin (BLACK LIKE ME) writes: 'It was too much. Though I was experiencing it, I could not believe it. Surely in America a whole segment of decent souls could not stand by and allow such massive crimes to be committed.' That's how I feel about factory farming." - Marian Patience Harvey, a noteworthy Hoosier!
stand up and speak out to make a difference...we pay taxes, and we vote. those opportunists we allow into office need to care as much as we do about what truly matters and stop answering to big money for future campaigns. all who live matter, all sentient beings...not just a few...not just a chosen few!
"Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed." -- Martin Luther King, Jr.
a smart lawyer and also don have often spoken of career politicians...a really bad concept...these youngsters have studied the process at college and get bought and stay bought and never intend to go away...what was the supreme court thinking? lord!
omigosh...when it appears some of our state legislators are authoring a jillion bills per week...they ain't! those are decrees from some high muckety mucks on some shining national hill. don opined that as we returned from indy...damn, he was correct!
and through gerrymandering and caucusing these careerists ease into their desk sets and thereby hangs the tale! and some national interests use them like puppets! and the states are getting sucked into hell. it's like they are working at a fast food joint flipping burgers.
i am so sick and tired of people politicizing animal slaughter...and those who could do something want to be thought "well" of???? those who sanction killing should never ever be thought well of, no matter what "party" they are beholden to...our voices for what is correct are growing stronger, and it is way past time for those who wish to hold office to listen and to give a damn about murder and mass slaughter. our nation should be better than this.
____________________
great feedback!
Larry Jaffe: "Amen."
Mina Linda: "I agree with Susie!"
Tyler A. Chase: "This is not about privacy. It's about criminals and sadists who can't seem to help themselves from torturing animals. This ban of cameras and video evidence is un American and against our basic Constitutional Rights to know what we are eating and how the animals are being treated is important. Enough of this nonsense of favoring the industries who are killing us with bad food."
Jean Armstrong, "Good Luck to you and Susie on this important issue!!!"
Kelly Huddleston: "Great post, Susie!"
Roland Vincent: "It is so satisfying to connect with someone who shares one's values and has the battle scars to prove it! No offense about the battle scar comment - lol, just figured you've got your share!"
"allllll over my little body" as jonathan winters used to say! i have been wounded so f-ing many times, i cannot believe i did not return to my original planet by now.
Dee Turner: "You really have to ask yourself: What are the people in the meat industry trying to HIDE!! Apart from animal protection rights, our human right to know what goes on 'inside' is embedded in the constitution and oversight is critical. We already know about countless abuses: inferior feed, growth hormones, antibiotics in the feed to keep animals well enough through their shortened lives. The overcrowding is unacceptable, lack of sanitary conditions, the birthing stalls for sows are cruel & prevent ANY movement by pigs. Animal cruelty is rampant which undercover videos have clearly exposed in all areas of factory farming: chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, cows, goats, and horses! Beyond all of this, the slaughter has been proven to be INhumane, cruelty violations that go unpunished or corrected, abuses in shipping to slaughter, and even afterwards, the trucking industry FAILS to keep the raw meat properly refrigerated, and processing machines disinfected allowing listeria, ecoli, salmonella & other bacterial infected meat to be sold, sickening, even killing consumers. Perhaps this is why we need a complete overhaul of the entire farm/food industry & those who have violated the law must be prosecuted or nothing will ever change."
Paro Babu: "true lines : 'Sweet truth for the animals! Except for species, I become increasingly aware of the parallel to slavery, the way we treat the animals. stand up and speak out to make a difference...we pay taxes, and we vote. those opportunists we allow into office need to care as much as we do about what truly matters and stop answering to big money for future campaigns. all who live matter, all sentient beings...not just a few...not just a chosen few!' love you, Susie ♥ and Roy for sharing this with us."
____________________
postscript from dee...
Dee Turner: "If you put this plea in Susie's blog it will reach more people who care about innocent pets. Brindi has been caged up for over 4 YEARS without having committed any crime ... simply because she is an animal! Halifax 'authorities' have abused their own by laws & covered it up repeatedly, lying in court. Fighting to save her beloved dog's life has almost completely bankrupted Francesca & the endless corruption by HRM is appalling. Apr 2nd she has to be prepared for the FINAL APPEAL TO SAVE BRINDI & every single dollar will go towards the spiralling legal costs. If many give just whatever amount they can afford, it will reduce the financial woes caused by this injustice & together we could set an important precedent to stop others from this needless suffering! It has been a nightmare for Brindi & Francesca and time is running out now... THANK YOU for whatever you can do to get some support on their behalf. Godspeed!"
click here to help!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
March 14, 2013
Latest Homeward Angle: FUR-EVER FRIENDS
Jo Ellen Adams, authenticated "Daughter of the American Revolution", belonged to my sister Sarah who patterned herself as a kid after the petite, energetic, plucky little girl who lived in the large, elegant, brick, Civil War Era farm house on the outskirts of town.
(You can view a scan of the print version of this column and photos by clicking here.)
Sarah's pal seemed to inhabit the original Disneyland and frolicked daily with a menagerie of horses, cats, dogs, chickens, goats, donkeys, peacocks, …and cats! I occasionally got to tag along with my older sis, crossing three "big city" streets to enjoy cake and iced tea with Mama Clarice, Jo Ellen and Lois Jeanne. "Jimmy" seldom appeared to be available, but every time I view John Cusack in a movie I see big brother Jim exactly as I remember briefly sighting him…exact replica!
From 1986 until February of 2013, I claimed honors of feeling just as close to Jo Ellen as her '57 classmate Sarah ever did. When I moved back to Columbia City, a welcoming committee of singular Ms. Adams McConnell Copp -- on moving day --met me at the front door of my childhood home with an invitation to her book club, "THE Coterie" ("THE" MUST be included in any referral to the ladies' long-lived organization!) plus an insistence that I delve whole-heartedly into the Whitley County Historical Society. Thanks to this lady with journalism coursing through her veins, I succumbed to her request for a thorough accounting of the Blue Bell Story to be featured in "The Bulletin".
"Blue Bell Factory Revisited" (February of 1987) still exists in the bowels of the Thomas Riley Marshall home/museum…multi-copies stacked up, staples rusting onto its "research paper" pages. I struggled in earnest to interview former local employees via phone or face to face, to search through trunks for photographs, to check facts via yellowing annual reports compiled at the Greensboro (North Carolina) headquarters, and even corresponded with the company's president E. A. Morris…all the while moving my lifetime of material possessions into a home already filled to the brim with my parents' plates, silverware, furniture, golf clubs, spare light bulbs, screw drivers and hammers, etc.
Thus, Jo Ellen, who served her time in a 14 year role as contributor to and editor of the "Whitley County Historical Bulletin", occupied my thoughts this past holiday season as I searched for a particular publication upon which I had depended for a reasonable bulk of my retro-information. Don York gently requested that a treasured newspaper, which he had loaned me during that manic phase of my life, be returned to him -- 26 years later? Lucky Jo Ellen always toted all of her precious ephemeral paper history to her hideaway across the hall from where her handsome son (and my dentist!) takes wonderful, proper care of Whitley County molars! I, on the other hand, stuff precious newspapers, letters, and magazine articles into drawers or under beds -- and cram folders into chintzy filing cabinets. I totally coveted her private office.
Jo Ellen socialized and traveled extensively. I am a stay-at-home blend of Boo Radley, Miss Havisham ("Great Expectations"), and reclusive Emily Dickinson rather than an Auntie Mame/Truman Capote type of individual. But the two of us local natives, an "Odd Couple", had lots of fun following my son Roy about whenever and wherever he performed one-man concerts, starred in Wabash College, Ohio State, or Metro-Detroit theatrical productions, or delivered Wabash College valedictories! Jo Ellen led Roy's fan club, insisted that he matriculate at Wabash in Crawfordsville, Indiana, and cheered when he achieved Rhodes Scholar finalist status there. We hobnobbed with college presidents, chopped onions with character actress Frances Sternhagen at a Columbus, Ohio pool party, and shared drinks/coffee with Ginny Hays whose father-in-law Postmaster General (Hoosier) Will Hays served as this nation's first ever Hollywood Censor, once deleting a lascivious bubble-bath scene of Marilyn Monroe's in "The Seven Year Itch" -- uh-huh! Ginny -- who lived next door to lyricist Ira Gershwin for years in California and who counted many movie stars among her closest chums-- adored Roy and phoned me often from Crawfordsville. At last, Jo Ellen envied ME, commenting: "You do realize, of course, that Ginny ringing you up is comparable to Nancy Reagan chatting with you on a weekly basis!" When Ginny's husband and Crawfordsville's beloved former mayor Bill Hays died, the two of us rushed -- via J's new pick-up truck -- to Ginny's side during the Hays Memorial Service at the Wabash College Chapel.
At any rate, thanks to my organizational skills required for that prior humongous 1987 assignment/challenge issued by Jo Ellen to detail the history of our local Blue Bell Factory, I finally unearthed and pored over Don York's happily, thankfully rediscovered 1967 "Observer" (@ only ten cents per copy!). One final time I re-visited photographs of Theral Wise checking stencils galore, "speed demon" Bob Eames slicing denim material into proper patterns, Jeanette Taylor and Mary Friend attaching leather "W" tags -- denoting "Wrangler" trademarks -- onto hip pockets, and Rosemary Palmer "surging" white pocket facings. Yesteryears flashed before my eyes as: Floyd Sullivan supervised carpentry projects; mechanic Bob Hiss repaired a belt loop machine; Cora Dexter and Barbara McCullough joined the front and back halves of garments together referred to in the trade as "felling"; Mary Karst loaded pre-pressed jeans from mobile racks to conveyors to be transported into the "oven"; secretaries and receptionists Phyllis Mattix, Edna Gondek, and Mary Gruesbeck smiled into the reporter's camera; and "Chief Cut-up" Bill Winters, phone to his ear, got described as "never perplexed while managing the cutting rooms of all of the division branches."
Understandably, my favorite "on the job" photo captures my dad, Roy Duncan, who "competently leads…and still finds time for many worthwhile civic endeavors" and who -- according to my surrogate "big sis" (and niece of local newspaper moguls Uncle John Quincy Adams and "Aunt Hester") Jo Ellen -- impressed folks as a "gentleman ahead of his time"!
Jo Ellen, not unlike our expert shutterbug chum Keith Kleespie, accompanied Don and me on our countless road trips (My dad referred to claustrophobic automobile adventurers as "sardines in a can"!) to keep tabs on son Roy's singing gigs, documenting our activities with super Kodak pix! Cruising about with this "Gal Friday" passenger in the back seat cannot be minimized since my friend of two thirds of a century offered a stream of candid comments, historical reveries, glowing compliments, hilarious community recollections/anecdotes, and especially magnificent tales extolling the animal kingdom with an emphasis, of course, upon…cats!
Ten years following my sister Sarah's death, Jo Ellen died last month at home, surrounded with love from her son Jim, daughter Marcia, and very special grandchildren. Oh, how I wish I had bought her a copy of "The LOL Cat Bible" --which I happened upon recently at Barnes & Noble on a snowy-blowy evening. Author Martin Grondin features incredible feline-photos and purr-fectly logical interpretations of Biblical lore from a kitty's purr-spective! Clearing my throat and beginning with "Genesis 1: Oh hai! In the beginnin Ceiling Cat maded the skys and the Urf n stuffs, but he no eated dem" all the way through to page 124, "Awl fings brite an purtyful, all kittehs big an small, all fings wize and wunnerful, Ceiling Cat mekked dem all…", I had switched on the car's interior ceiling "lite" ("Genesis 3: An Ceiling Cat sez, ' I can has lite' ? An lite wuz. Srsly!") and read aloud to husband Don alllll the way home from Fort Wayne. Don suffered silently, but kindred soul Jo Ellen would have relished every word…although probably never admitting it!
____________________
thanks for this feedback!
Marcia Meader: "Ah, thank you. Lovely tribute to Mom. Yes, Steve was in my class and he is wonderful."
just talked with louise easterday, marcia, and we agreed that you are a special girl! one of her sons is a classmate of yours.
Annie Gagnon: "Jo Ellen has to be an angel because you are...You my lady have more then earned your wings. I have probably saved about thirty animals over the years, all the dogs, cats rabbits, hamsters, birds, and kittens. You have saved thousands, and work diligently always for them. I take my hat off to you, Susie, how satisfying that must be. You rock, and I am sure your friend was like you, bless her heart...I LOVE YOU TOO, AN AMAZING LADY."
Brian Williams: "Great piece."
Carol Baker: "Oh, Susie... only a soul sister could have written such a beautiful tribute to the life of such a wonderful spirit as your dear life-long friend, Jo Ellen. I can only hope that when I slip these earthly bonds, I have a single friend that will remember me with the sort of fondness you have shared here. Thank you for introducing us to the life, the love and the laughter of your dear friend. You have helped us to feel your loss in the most personal way."
Mary Shaull: "There you go again! You make me so wish I had shared adventures with you."
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "thank you again for letting me into the action. LOL Thank you, Miss Susie - I love you so much!...Roy, I forgot to tell you I love you too and what you do for your Mom...but I don't feel I need to say because you should already know. LOL You and Miss Susie are quite a pair. Take care and God bless you both."
Bev Sexton: "Hi, Susie...Roy has sent me an e mail about your latest... Congratulations once again! We're proud of you. Best to you!"
Lucy Grant:
Pam Simmons: "Roy, I brought your mom's book, it is delightful!!! ... I am cuddled up with my dog, Mocha, and one of the cats with book in hand...what a great vacation."
Paro Babu: "Susie writes just my heart out in her blogs...just so heart touching..."
Denise Earley: "Fantastic, love reading these stories, lovely to read something happy."
Bob Wannberg: "Hi Susie, absolutely wonderful. like you."
Scottie Belt: "God bless my friend Susie Sexton who has such a GREAT love for animals! Susie Sexton... This is for YOU!"
Barb Nicholson: "This one is so interesting with all the facts from here, there and everywhere! Good reading!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
(You can view a scan of the print version of this column and photos by clicking here.)
Sarah's pal seemed to inhabit the original Disneyland and frolicked daily with a menagerie of horses, cats, dogs, chickens, goats, donkeys, peacocks, …and cats! I occasionally got to tag along with my older sis, crossing three "big city" streets to enjoy cake and iced tea with Mama Clarice, Jo Ellen and Lois Jeanne. "Jimmy" seldom appeared to be available, but every time I view John Cusack in a movie I see big brother Jim exactly as I remember briefly sighting him…exact replica!
From 1986 until February of 2013, I claimed honors of feeling just as close to Jo Ellen as her '57 classmate Sarah ever did. When I moved back to Columbia City, a welcoming committee of singular Ms. Adams McConnell Copp -- on moving day --met me at the front door of my childhood home with an invitation to her book club, "THE Coterie" ("THE" MUST be included in any referral to the ladies' long-lived organization!) plus an insistence that I delve whole-heartedly into the Whitley County Historical Society. Thanks to this lady with journalism coursing through her veins, I succumbed to her request for a thorough accounting of the Blue Bell Story to be featured in "The Bulletin".
"Blue Bell Factory Revisited" (February of 1987) still exists in the bowels of the Thomas Riley Marshall home/museum…multi-copies stacked up, staples rusting onto its "research paper" pages. I struggled in earnest to interview former local employees via phone or face to face, to search through trunks for photographs, to check facts via yellowing annual reports compiled at the Greensboro (North Carolina) headquarters, and even corresponded with the company's president E. A. Morris…all the while moving my lifetime of material possessions into a home already filled to the brim with my parents' plates, silverware, furniture, golf clubs, spare light bulbs, screw drivers and hammers, etc.
Thus, Jo Ellen, who served her time in a 14 year role as contributor to and editor of the "Whitley County Historical Bulletin", occupied my thoughts this past holiday season as I searched for a particular publication upon which I had depended for a reasonable bulk of my retro-information. Don York gently requested that a treasured newspaper, which he had loaned me during that manic phase of my life, be returned to him -- 26 years later? Lucky Jo Ellen always toted all of her precious ephemeral paper history to her hideaway across the hall from where her handsome son (and my dentist!) takes wonderful, proper care of Whitley County molars! I, on the other hand, stuff precious newspapers, letters, and magazine articles into drawers or under beds -- and cram folders into chintzy filing cabinets. I totally coveted her private office.
Jo Ellen socialized and traveled extensively. I am a stay-at-home blend of Boo Radley, Miss Havisham ("Great Expectations"), and reclusive Emily Dickinson rather than an Auntie Mame/Truman Capote type of individual. But the two of us local natives, an "Odd Couple", had lots of fun following my son Roy about whenever and wherever he performed one-man concerts, starred in Wabash College, Ohio State, or Metro-Detroit theatrical productions, or delivered Wabash College valedictories! Jo Ellen led Roy's fan club, insisted that he matriculate at Wabash in Crawfordsville, Indiana, and cheered when he achieved Rhodes Scholar finalist status there. We hobnobbed with college presidents, chopped onions with character actress Frances Sternhagen at a Columbus, Ohio pool party, and shared drinks/coffee with Ginny Hays whose father-in-law Postmaster General (Hoosier) Will Hays served as this nation's first ever Hollywood Censor, once deleting a lascivious bubble-bath scene of Marilyn Monroe's in "The Seven Year Itch" -- uh-huh! Ginny -- who lived next door to lyricist Ira Gershwin for years in California and who counted many movie stars among her closest chums-- adored Roy and phoned me often from Crawfordsville. At last, Jo Ellen envied ME, commenting: "You do realize, of course, that Ginny ringing you up is comparable to Nancy Reagan chatting with you on a weekly basis!" When Ginny's husband and Crawfordsville's beloved former mayor Bill Hays died, the two of us rushed -- via J's new pick-up truck -- to Ginny's side during the Hays Memorial Service at the Wabash College Chapel.
At any rate, thanks to my organizational skills required for that prior humongous 1987 assignment/challenge issued by Jo Ellen to detail the history of our local Blue Bell Factory, I finally unearthed and pored over Don York's happily, thankfully rediscovered 1967 "Observer" (@ only ten cents per copy!). One final time I re-visited photographs of Theral Wise checking stencils galore, "speed demon" Bob Eames slicing denim material into proper patterns, Jeanette Taylor and Mary Friend attaching leather "W" tags -- denoting "Wrangler" trademarks -- onto hip pockets, and Rosemary Palmer "surging" white pocket facings. Yesteryears flashed before my eyes as: Floyd Sullivan supervised carpentry projects; mechanic Bob Hiss repaired a belt loop machine; Cora Dexter and Barbara McCullough joined the front and back halves of garments together referred to in the trade as "felling"; Mary Karst loaded pre-pressed jeans from mobile racks to conveyors to be transported into the "oven"; secretaries and receptionists Phyllis Mattix, Edna Gondek, and Mary Gruesbeck smiled into the reporter's camera; and "Chief Cut-up" Bill Winters, phone to his ear, got described as "never perplexed while managing the cutting rooms of all of the division branches."
Understandably, my favorite "on the job" photo captures my dad, Roy Duncan, who "competently leads…and still finds time for many worthwhile civic endeavors" and who -- according to my surrogate "big sis" (and niece of local newspaper moguls Uncle John Quincy Adams and "Aunt Hester") Jo Ellen -- impressed folks as a "gentleman ahead of his time"!
Jo Ellen, not unlike our expert shutterbug chum Keith Kleespie, accompanied Don and me on our countless road trips (My dad referred to claustrophobic automobile adventurers as "sardines in a can"!) to keep tabs on son Roy's singing gigs, documenting our activities with super Kodak pix! Cruising about with this "Gal Friday" passenger in the back seat cannot be minimized since my friend of two thirds of a century offered a stream of candid comments, historical reveries, glowing compliments, hilarious community recollections/anecdotes, and especially magnificent tales extolling the animal kingdom with an emphasis, of course, upon…cats!
Ten years following my sister Sarah's death, Jo Ellen died last month at home, surrounded with love from her son Jim, daughter Marcia, and very special grandchildren. Oh, how I wish I had bought her a copy of "The LOL Cat Bible" --which I happened upon recently at Barnes & Noble on a snowy-blowy evening. Author Martin Grondin features incredible feline-photos and purr-fectly logical interpretations of Biblical lore from a kitty's purr-spective! Clearing my throat and beginning with "Genesis 1: Oh hai! In the beginnin Ceiling Cat maded the skys and the Urf n stuffs, but he no eated dem" all the way through to page 124, "Awl fings brite an purtyful, all kittehs big an small, all fings wize and wunnerful, Ceiling Cat mekked dem all…", I had switched on the car's interior ceiling "lite" ("Genesis 3: An Ceiling Cat sez, ' I can has lite' ? An lite wuz. Srsly!") and read aloud to husband Don alllll the way home from Fort Wayne. Don suffered silently, but kindred soul Jo Ellen would have relished every word…although probably never admitting it!
From Jo Ellen Adams McConnell's "Celebration of Life" Memorial Bulletin: "…I have known many people, some good, some bad. Many and varied have been my experiences. But the sum total of all my observations is that there is infinitely more good in this old world than bad." ~ Thomas R. Marshall
____________________
thanks for this feedback!
Marcia Meader: "Ah, thank you. Lovely tribute to Mom. Yes, Steve was in my class and he is wonderful."
just talked with louise easterday, marcia, and we agreed that you are a special girl! one of her sons is a classmate of yours.
Annie Gagnon: "Jo Ellen has to be an angel because you are...You my lady have more then earned your wings. I have probably saved about thirty animals over the years, all the dogs, cats rabbits, hamsters, birds, and kittens. You have saved thousands, and work diligently always for them. I take my hat off to you, Susie, how satisfying that must be. You rock, and I am sure your friend was like you, bless her heart...I LOVE YOU TOO, AN AMAZING LADY."
Brian Williams: "Great piece."
Carol Baker: "Oh, Susie... only a soul sister could have written such a beautiful tribute to the life of such a wonderful spirit as your dear life-long friend, Jo Ellen. I can only hope that when I slip these earthly bonds, I have a single friend that will remember me with the sort of fondness you have shared here. Thank you for introducing us to the life, the love and the laughter of your dear friend. You have helped us to feel your loss in the most personal way."
Mary Shaull: "There you go again! You make me so wish I had shared adventures with you."
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "thank you again for letting me into the action. LOL Thank you, Miss Susie - I love you so much!...Roy, I forgot to tell you I love you too and what you do for your Mom...but I don't feel I need to say because you should already know. LOL You and Miss Susie are quite a pair. Take care and God bless you both."
Bev Sexton: "Hi, Susie...Roy has sent me an e mail about your latest... Congratulations once again! We're proud of you. Best to you!"
Lucy Grant:
Susie, Your dear son keeps me up to date with your wonderful columns and I love not only reading your columns but hearing from him. I know you are so proud of all his multiple accomplishments but even neater, he is equally proud of yours!
I recently re-read "Secrets" and I must say I was so totally transported by the tears and laughter that I forgot all my woes and just felt surrounded by the past interpreted by my brilliant friend. I do hope you will continue on your path. I know we vintage citizens love all your reminiscing and wonder what the response has been from the younger set of Columbia City citizens. I hope you inspire them to keep their memories alive and well too!
Thank you also for the column on Jo Ellen Adams. She and Linda Gates both had a dynamic liveliness that made them unforgettable women and made me feel so grateful I had known them. When we lived on Main down where the new Lutheran church now exists Linda was part of the neighborhood gang although we always knew she was a cut above...she had the most fabulous playhouse in which any of us felt totally privileged to be invited to play. As I remember it was shaped like the Gates' real house (I think the Hancocks subsequently moved in that house...not the playhouse) and we all dreamed that one day our parents would provide us with a similar retreat.
My sister was great friends with Jo Ellen...our next door neighbors had a horse in a tiny stall and in a tiny yard. Judy volunteered to exercise "Lucky" and regularly rode with Jo Ellen all over the what would be considered city streets rather than country side.
Much love and continued success,
Lucy
Pam Simmons: "Roy, I brought your mom's book, it is delightful!!! ... I am cuddled up with my dog, Mocha, and one of the cats with book in hand...what a great vacation."
Paro Babu: "Susie writes just my heart out in her blogs...just so heart touching..."
Denise Earley: "Fantastic, love reading these stories, lovely to read something happy."
Bob Wannberg: "Hi Susie, absolutely wonderful. like you."
Scottie Belt: "God bless my friend Susie Sexton who has such a GREAT love for animals! Susie Sexton... This is for YOU!"
Barb Nicholson: "This one is so interesting with all the facts from here, there and everywhere! Good reading!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
March 7, 2013
i try to be nice...
"I love people and animals -- though not necessarily in that order," Doris Day once said. "I've never met an animal I didn't like, and I can't say the same thing about people."
i can barely even look at people some days...too many self-centered, clueless turds...i try to be nice...but the older i get the less nice i am...i say what i think...and then flip/slip back into my reclusive life. it is a miracle that I found kindred spirits...thank goodness for that! i love facebook for that...though there are a few facebook pages i sometimes look at to renew my venomous ire toward the shallow human race. plenty of material there!
From columnist Lewis Richmond: "Finally, since emptiness seems so difficult to understand, why did the Buddha teach it at all? It is because of his profound insight into why we suffer. Ultimately we suffer because we grasp after things thinking they are fixed, substantial, real and capable of being possessed by ego. It is only when we can see through this illusion and open ourselves, in Ari Goldfield's words, 'to the reality of flux and fluidity that is ultimately ungraspable and inconceivable' that we can relax into clarity, compassion and courage. That lofty goal is what makes the effort to understand emptiness so worthwhile." (Read more here.)
BTW, animals ARE buddhists, right, carol? obviously you and i think alike! then I am lucky indeed!
(note: cows and apes don't need animal protein...inadvertently protein happens! we b fine...)
____________________
From columnist Ann Brenoff: "Years ago, I had a boss who insisted I take the day off when I had to put my 15-year-old dog to sleep. My boss' act of kindness allowed me to grieve in peace and relieved my stress over missing work for a reason that a non-dog owner might not get. It translated into a mountain of gratitude for her kindness and for years after, I never said no to anything she ever asked of me. The bosses who get that you have a life outside the office are the bosses we love the most and work the hardest to please." (Read more here.)
Doris' love for animals has never waned: "I couldn't be without them. I couldn't. They are so true, and I love that." ~ Doris Day
Thanks, Tressa! Tressa Marie: "Thank you so much, Susie...MY ANGEL <3 <3 I will share this in two groups. So very very sad what is happening to this beautiful, majestic, lovely souls. Thank you for all you do each and every day for the innocent voiceless. A true guardian angel <3 <3 Love and respect always <3 <3"
____________________
postscript...
horsemeat scandal? hey all meat was somebody's mother...or somebody's calf...or piglet...or lamb...what is the difference? cannibalism is cannibalism! eat more greens...more salads...your heart will benefit physically and emotionally...i am watching the slaughter of horses on CNN at a slaughter "camp"...hell on earth. hell on earth. evil. a bolt to the head...hanging upside down... decapitated...slaughtered, starved...purely profit-driven! stop the world, i wanna get off! 'livestock"? what kind of word is that anyway?
"Now, more than 35 percent of Americans are obese, and almost 70 percent are overweight. This is not an accident but the result of careful marketing and money in politics." (just read this during one of my speed-reading ventures...sounds about right...especially the "careful marketing and money in politics"--lord, yes!)
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
i can barely even look at people some days...too many self-centered, clueless turds...i try to be nice...but the older i get the less nice i am...i say what i think...and then flip/slip back into my reclusive life. it is a miracle that I found kindred spirits...thank goodness for that! i love facebook for that...though there are a few facebook pages i sometimes look at to renew my venomous ire toward the shallow human race. plenty of material there!
From columnist Lewis Richmond: "Finally, since emptiness seems so difficult to understand, why did the Buddha teach it at all? It is because of his profound insight into why we suffer. Ultimately we suffer because we grasp after things thinking they are fixed, substantial, real and capable of being possessed by ego. It is only when we can see through this illusion and open ourselves, in Ari Goldfield's words, 'to the reality of flux and fluidity that is ultimately ungraspable and inconceivable' that we can relax into clarity, compassion and courage. That lofty goal is what makes the effort to understand emptiness so worthwhile." (Read more here.)
Carol Baker: "True enough - but when I learned to think like my dog... I came to appreciate life's simple pleasures and leave yesterday to yesterday. Barney Dog taught me that there are few things in life that can't be improved by a nap."
BTW, animals ARE buddhists, right, carol? obviously you and i think alike! then I am lucky indeed!
(note: cows and apes don't need animal protein...inadvertently protein happens! we b fine...)
Steve Randomsurname: "Buddhist philosophy and thought have been a huge source of inspiration and comfort to me over the years. It represents incredibly advanced psychological insight considering the era in which it is from.
"Suffering comes from attachment and craving; and is released by letting go. Ego and delusion cause us to hold on to things which are best let go. We can see many examples of how we do this in our everyday lives, both in our craving for things and how this results in suffering, and how much better we can feel when we let go of something we've been holding onto too tightly."
____________________
From columnist Ann Brenoff: "Years ago, I had a boss who insisted I take the day off when I had to put my 15-year-old dog to sleep. My boss' act of kindness allowed me to grieve in peace and relieved my stress over missing work for a reason that a non-dog owner might not get. It translated into a mountain of gratitude for her kindness and for years after, I never said no to anything she ever asked of me. The bosses who get that you have a life outside the office are the bosses we love the most and work the hardest to please." (Read more here.)
Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "Dear Susie, what a kind and compassionate person; if only we could all treat one another like that, or just animals, that would be enough for me."
Bob Wannberg: "Sing it Susie! You're right on key!"
Kathy Bostwick: "Wonderful article, Susie, and, yes, life happens, and most of us working people don't like what happens but it is sure a lot easier when your boss is understanding....the world needs more kindness and you are starting a wonderful new trend, Susie....Smiling is good - it makes people wonder what you've been up too!"
Doris' love for animals has never waned: "I couldn't be without them. I couldn't. They are so true, and I love that." ~ Doris Day
Thanks, Tressa! Tressa Marie: "Thank you so much, Susie...MY ANGEL <3 <3 I will share this in two groups. So very very sad what is happening to this beautiful, majestic, lovely souls. Thank you for all you do each and every day for the innocent voiceless. A true guardian angel <3 <3 Love and respect always <3 <3"
____________________
postscript...
horsemeat scandal? hey all meat was somebody's mother...or somebody's calf...or piglet...or lamb...what is the difference? cannibalism is cannibalism! eat more greens...more salads...your heart will benefit physically and emotionally...i am watching the slaughter of horses on CNN at a slaughter "camp"...hell on earth. hell on earth. evil. a bolt to the head...hanging upside down... decapitated...slaughtered, starved...purely profit-driven! stop the world, i wanna get off! 'livestock"? what kind of word is that anyway?
"Now, more than 35 percent of Americans are obese, and almost 70 percent are overweight. This is not an accident but the result of careful marketing and money in politics." (just read this during one of my speed-reading ventures...sounds about right...especially the "careful marketing and money in politics"--lord, yes!)
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
February 23, 2013
two kinds of humans...only two kinds
...two kinds of humans, those who kill and those who would never kill...only two kinds. we must ask which category we fit comfortably into and why. i believe most humans are not murderers...and had better learn to say so...NOW!
the same old rationalizations of "ecological, recreational, and economic NEEDS" affixed to the old red-neck tool belt justifying mass slaughter for fun, games and profit!
can only be a "sport" IF the sought after prey is armed also, right? ...or IF the "huntsmen" run naked and unarmed through the forest and wrestle with the "hunted" one on one.
DNR=down with natural resources OR damage nature "religiously" OR damned nasty rules (aimed at filling state coffers with blood money for the good ole boys!)
...two kinds of humans, those who kill and those who would never kill...only two kinds. we must ask which category we fit comfortably into and why. i believe most humans are not murderers...and had better learn to say so...NOW!
____________________
neat comments...
Arlene Steinberg: "I know where I am - the EVOLVED category. I am Eloi, not Morlock!"
Deborah Fields Perez: "I would NEVER kill!"
Mary Lou Cassotto: "Me neither... couldn't even give someone a needle...but with meat, someone else does the killing for everyone. We have been trained to harden our hearts...I can remember when I was a child, not understanding adults who could take a child to a zoo and then serve meat, and then holidays like Thanksgiving, that are all about the serving of meat. The pictures online of butchering put things into perspective, though, even though they are hard to take. I could never understand how butchers lived with themselves."
Shannon Basner: "Never ever will understand who takes pleasure in hunting. There are lots of sport hunters up here and it's really hard at times."
Ken Ward Jr.: "'Hunters' LIVE to kill....that's all they know what to do."
David Rat: "WOW! i think I will teach a class based on this..."
Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "Beautifully put, absolutely true, brilliant, Susie."
Luna Dance: "There is a third, the ones that do nothing."
Kim Elizabeth Johnson: "Love Susie Sexton's acronyms for Dept. of Natural Resources...Hilarious and RIGHT ON!!... I miss Cleveland Amory. His book, 'Mankind?', was one of the first books I read on my journey into vegetarianism, animal rights activism and then veganism."
Paro Babu: "bestest lines ever '...two kinds of humans, those who kill and those who would never kill...only two kinds. we must ask which category we fit comfortably into and why.' Thank you, Roy for the wonderful post and a BIG THANKS to Susie who owns these fabulous words..."
Redness Sharethelove: "VERY TRUE, Roy. An eye for an eye is TOTALLY wrong. It is Love that can solve and fix EVERYTHING."
Kathy Bostwick: "Wow - such a good read and if you really don't like something - turn around and walk away - it's not hard - this is yet another reason I prefer my cats to most people...Susie, it was your love of animals that drew me to your page and it's that love that keeps me here (trust me, my house can testify to my online time)! We could learn so much from the animals."
Annie Gagnon: "Nothing like mother and child, don't care what species it is!!!! Animals my first love! Susie is second and then Roy, lol!"
Joseph Armentano: "Oh, by the way, we got the book very promptly. For now, by way of reviews, we love the cover and the titles throughout! crazy busy at the moment, will get back to you when we have a chance to get into the stories!"
Scottie Belt: "Susie Sexton .... Thank you for your great love for animals and the energy you have dedicated. Cant imagine life without our animals which have enhanced our lives. God makes all things GREAT! Thank you! "
It was Martin Luther King who said “Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Remember this insight: “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.”
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
the same old rationalizations of "ecological, recreational, and economic NEEDS" affixed to the old red-neck tool belt justifying mass slaughter for fun, games and profit!
can only be a "sport" IF the sought after prey is armed also, right? ...or IF the "huntsmen" run naked and unarmed through the forest and wrestle with the "hunted" one on one.
DNR=down with natural resources OR damage nature "religiously" OR damned nasty rules (aimed at filling state coffers with blood money for the good ole boys!)
...two kinds of humans, those who kill and those who would never kill...only two kinds. we must ask which category we fit comfortably into and why. i believe most humans are not murderers...and had better learn to say so...NOW!
____________________
neat comments...
Arlene Steinberg: "I know where I am - the EVOLVED category. I am Eloi, not Morlock!"
Deborah Fields Perez: "I would NEVER kill!"
Mary Lou Cassotto: "Me neither... couldn't even give someone a needle...but with meat, someone else does the killing for everyone. We have been trained to harden our hearts...I can remember when I was a child, not understanding adults who could take a child to a zoo and then serve meat, and then holidays like Thanksgiving, that are all about the serving of meat. The pictures online of butchering put things into perspective, though, even though they are hard to take. I could never understand how butchers lived with themselves."
Shannon Basner: "Never ever will understand who takes pleasure in hunting. There are lots of sport hunters up here and it's really hard at times."
Ken Ward Jr.: "'Hunters' LIVE to kill....that's all they know what to do."
David Rat: "WOW! i think I will teach a class based on this..."
Diane Shenkman Baumgarten: "Beautifully put, absolutely true, brilliant, Susie."
Luna Dance: "There is a third, the ones that do nothing."
Kim Elizabeth Johnson: "Love Susie Sexton's acronyms for Dept. of Natural Resources...Hilarious and RIGHT ON!!... I miss Cleveland Amory. His book, 'Mankind?', was one of the first books I read on my journey into vegetarianism, animal rights activism and then veganism."
Paro Babu: "bestest lines ever '...two kinds of humans, those who kill and those who would never kill...only two kinds. we must ask which category we fit comfortably into and why.' Thank you, Roy for the wonderful post and a BIG THANKS to Susie who owns these fabulous words..."
Redness Sharethelove: "VERY TRUE, Roy. An eye for an eye is TOTALLY wrong. It is Love that can solve and fix EVERYTHING."
Kathy Bostwick: "Wow - such a good read and if you really don't like something - turn around and walk away - it's not hard - this is yet another reason I prefer my cats to most people...Susie, it was your love of animals that drew me to your page and it's that love that keeps me here (trust me, my house can testify to my online time)! We could learn so much from the animals."
Annie Gagnon: "Nothing like mother and child, don't care what species it is!!!! Animals my first love! Susie is second and then Roy, lol!"
Joseph Armentano: "Oh, by the way, we got the book very promptly. For now, by way of reviews, we love the cover and the titles throughout! crazy busy at the moment, will get back to you when we have a chance to get into the stories!"
Scottie Belt: "Susie Sexton .... Thank you for your great love for animals and the energy you have dedicated. Cant imagine life without our animals which have enhanced our lives. God makes all things GREAT! Thank you! "
It was Martin Luther King who said “Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Remember this insight: “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.”
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
February 14, 2013
Latest Homeward Angle: WEST WARD STORY: BRAVE HEARTS & BULLIES READY TO RUMBLE
View the original column by clicking here...
Born and raised in Indianapolis, author Kurt Vonnegut attended Shortridge High School, a setting which contributed to his wit whilst only marginally damaging and corrupting his sprightly soul. My favorite of his novels announces Kurt's intent via its one word title, "Slapstick" -- which provided my most beloved quote in all of literature and which I must not share in a family oriented newspaper. I'm determined to read his entire body of work because both Kurt and I received our share of warped inspiration, whether subtle or outrageous, from the bullies in our lives!
For Valentine's Day, I'll offer some impressions of an elementary school bully of such monumental scope that I only now am beginning to cease shuddering and to shrug off thoughts of the West Ward Elementary School "Blackboard Jungle" and this …"Peck's Bad Boy", or my mom's more apt description, "Imp 'o Satan" -- take your choice!
We met in kindergarten. Unfortunately, He had a perverse crush on me, I believe? We seemed to part sometime during puberty. His family moved to another state. My prayers finally got answered!
He rumbled through schoolrooms which we shared for nearly six long years and swaggered the length of cloak-halls and hustled up and down aisles separating rows of school desks. He rivaled any professional linebacker then or now. Playground equipment barely remained intact following His volatile lurching and lunging from jungle gyms to fistfights and back again for 15 minutes of recess twice daily. Undeniably a Rockwellian child-brute, to some this creature possibly qualified as "cute" as well as directly issued from "central casting", but I swore that He must be approximately 43 years old, eight feet tall and sorely in need of returning to his own "Black Lagoon" post-haste!
Teacher's raised arm and beckoning hand and a tweet on a referee's whistle signaled "recess over"--but never for Him! Our rustic merry-go-round consistently suffered a parting assault as His muscular limbs reached out to administer either a jolting halt OR dizzying, bolt-removal, whirling dervish, nearly-airborne, rapid-fire, head-spinning multi-twirls often while tinier, intimidated kids barely remained seated as sea-sick passengers, their startled faces fading behind His grudging march toward Miss Demaris Smalley's or Miss Betty Leffel's side. I swear that the earth moved when that kid walked!
My mind's eye contains a picture, in its vintage gallery featuring believe it or not memories, of this incredible hulk enduring, unbeknownst to Himself, frantic pushing by Miss Smalley who boomed aloud "to let you know just what it feels like" (HER words) to be bullied! The solidly-built fourth grader scratched his head while our 4' 7" educator shoved him repeatedly, this 10 year old "boxer" (bent on rebellion) never going down for the count.
Early, premature sex education also reared its head when our class thug with the pug-nose and the toothy leering grin pestered all of us little girls, one by one on the sly, with a book opened to a graphic-enough line drawing of a nursing mother. Actually this wild fellow had nearly lost his life to our fifties childhood polio epidemic, so maybe some of the teachers were giving him an odd pass to terrorize the rest of us daily? However, my parents stepped in, on my behalf, when I received a special valentine in our home mailbox on those terrible stressful days when we all lugged abundantly over-done doily-decorated shoe boxes to school to see who would be most popular and receive a record number of home-made cards and who might rate not even just one. My hand-delivered romantic note from this grade school gorilla suggested that the West Ward recess ruffian enjoyed peering up my pleated skirt when I ascended the flight of two staircases separated by a landing in a rather isolated stairwell. Our merry-go-round menace consistently positioned Himself upon the lower steps at an opportune time.
"Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?"-- or so the unsettled enigma goes!
Principal Willis got a phone call, a hasty visit and a look-see at the poorly spelled love letter of sorts -- by way of special delivery from my irate mom and dad…but our bully had some connections, so his reign of terror continued. And not only did I suffer when ascending upstairs, but each time I strolled downstairs I encountered a disgruntled female bully whose face grew beet red even at the mention of my name. She habitually blocked my passage…to lunch at home? (At the turn of the century, we spent our noon hours at our own individual little houses across this big city of ours!) Tomato soup, peanut butter sandwiches, tears and pleas to my mom followed: "I beg of you to home school me even if the truant officer arrests our entire family!"
What does being thrown into a social atmosphere against one's will teach a person? I eventually learned to hold my own in gender wars and political dissensions and to stand up for my principles (and principals like Dale Pence who’s among the best ever) and to withstand class clowns, jocks, bullies, roller derby wenches, and May Queen types and to empathize with wallflowers, bookworms and good-hearted souls wherever they may be. Not too shabby. Would I ever wish to return to those once mandated public education days? Never in a million years…except LIFE itself seems to be a continuation of that repetitious, imposed, artificial structure.
My idol Vonnegut writes in his introduction to "Slapstick" that if there is a heaven, one fine day we surely must mill around way up there at that earlier precise age when we existed at our very best…for me that would be age ten. I looked pretty great -- skinny, with a small nose. My hairdo reflected that I occasionally brushed my tresses. I got my favorite doll ever for Christmas. My mom had forgiven me for requesting a picture of a duck-billed platypus during breakfast the exact morning of my science project's due date! I discovered how to really care about animals and their welfare and their rights to life. I wore a wonderful necklace, allll of the time, which consisted of a teensy Bible -- which actually could be opened a la locket -- dangling demurely from a delicate chain. I learned a great deal about those "boys who must be boys" and about those girls who sometimes block the progress of other girls and about those adults who are not always wise. Enduring a little brutishness made me the person I am today, scarred, wounded, yet determined that if given the opportunity I could forgive past transgressions but would positively either ban or reform "Scut Farkus" (see "A Christmas Story") and his ilk forevermore.
____________________
neat feedback!
Neil J. Simon: "Such vivid memories. That is great that she has them and can write so clearly about them."
Melinda Boyer Kelley: "Wow...that brought back memories!! Thanks, Susie!!!"
Shannon Wright: "Wow, that brought back memories! Guess it made me who I am today :)"
Mary Shaull: "You are more kind that I would have been. Wonder where the bully boy is now. As a teacher of that age child, I guess I worried more about the sad and 'odd' kids than the bullies. The young bullies are no doubt old bullies now. But the sad, odd ones often didn't make it. I know. Not sure where I'm going with this, so I'll stop."
Tressa Marie: "Thank you very much for sharing this <3"
Colleen Hornidge: "Roy you have the greatest mom in the world you must be very special too! we are big fans of your mother and her writings! Happy Valentine's Day to you too.... Colleen.. Ellie and ...Isabella"
Mina Linda: "Thank you very much :)"
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "Thank you so much Roy and Susie <3<3 you both"
B. Anne Giles Watson: "FINALLY bought your book. I was at Memory Lane...and there it was! I got the book AND your card! I'm thrilled!!!! Will be reading soon! :). Love you!!!!"
Drex Morton: "This article was remarkable... I so appreciate the fact that we (artistic types) have experienced a type of earlier youthful tyranny that just emboldened us to stand stronger than we might have otherwise... :)"
Shellie Blum: "Great page Susie, keep on keeping on!"
Barb Nicholson: "Amazing how much bullies got away with eons ago. Now, all a kid has to do is look cross-eyed at another kid and it is immediate suspension. Something like pushing one button on your computer and all your troubles are gone (well maybe not all of them)! Happy Monday to you!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
Born and raised in Indianapolis, author Kurt Vonnegut attended Shortridge High School, a setting which contributed to his wit whilst only marginally damaging and corrupting his sprightly soul. My favorite of his novels announces Kurt's intent via its one word title, "Slapstick" -- which provided my most beloved quote in all of literature and which I must not share in a family oriented newspaper. I'm determined to read his entire body of work because both Kurt and I received our share of warped inspiration, whether subtle or outrageous, from the bullies in our lives!
For Valentine's Day, I'll offer some impressions of an elementary school bully of such monumental scope that I only now am beginning to cease shuddering and to shrug off thoughts of the West Ward Elementary School "Blackboard Jungle" and this …"Peck's Bad Boy", or my mom's more apt description, "Imp 'o Satan" -- take your choice!
We met in kindergarten. Unfortunately, He had a perverse crush on me, I believe? We seemed to part sometime during puberty. His family moved to another state. My prayers finally got answered!
He rumbled through schoolrooms which we shared for nearly six long years and swaggered the length of cloak-halls and hustled up and down aisles separating rows of school desks. He rivaled any professional linebacker then or now. Playground equipment barely remained intact following His volatile lurching and lunging from jungle gyms to fistfights and back again for 15 minutes of recess twice daily. Undeniably a Rockwellian child-brute, to some this creature possibly qualified as "cute" as well as directly issued from "central casting", but I swore that He must be approximately 43 years old, eight feet tall and sorely in need of returning to his own "Black Lagoon" post-haste!
Teacher's raised arm and beckoning hand and a tweet on a referee's whistle signaled "recess over"--but never for Him! Our rustic merry-go-round consistently suffered a parting assault as His muscular limbs reached out to administer either a jolting halt OR dizzying, bolt-removal, whirling dervish, nearly-airborne, rapid-fire, head-spinning multi-twirls often while tinier, intimidated kids barely remained seated as sea-sick passengers, their startled faces fading behind His grudging march toward Miss Demaris Smalley's or Miss Betty Leffel's side. I swear that the earth moved when that kid walked!
My mind's eye contains a picture, in its vintage gallery featuring believe it or not memories, of this incredible hulk enduring, unbeknownst to Himself, frantic pushing by Miss Smalley who boomed aloud "to let you know just what it feels like" (HER words) to be bullied! The solidly-built fourth grader scratched his head while our 4' 7" educator shoved him repeatedly, this 10 year old "boxer" (bent on rebellion) never going down for the count.
Early, premature sex education also reared its head when our class thug with the pug-nose and the toothy leering grin pestered all of us little girls, one by one on the sly, with a book opened to a graphic-enough line drawing of a nursing mother. Actually this wild fellow had nearly lost his life to our fifties childhood polio epidemic, so maybe some of the teachers were giving him an odd pass to terrorize the rest of us daily? However, my parents stepped in, on my behalf, when I received a special valentine in our home mailbox on those terrible stressful days when we all lugged abundantly over-done doily-decorated shoe boxes to school to see who would be most popular and receive a record number of home-made cards and who might rate not even just one. My hand-delivered romantic note from this grade school gorilla suggested that the West Ward recess ruffian enjoyed peering up my pleated skirt when I ascended the flight of two staircases separated by a landing in a rather isolated stairwell. Our merry-go-round menace consistently positioned Himself upon the lower steps at an opportune time.
"Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?"-- or so the unsettled enigma goes!
Principal Willis got a phone call, a hasty visit and a look-see at the poorly spelled love letter of sorts -- by way of special delivery from my irate mom and dad…but our bully had some connections, so his reign of terror continued. And not only did I suffer when ascending upstairs, but each time I strolled downstairs I encountered a disgruntled female bully whose face grew beet red even at the mention of my name. She habitually blocked my passage…to lunch at home? (At the turn of the century, we spent our noon hours at our own individual little houses across this big city of ours!) Tomato soup, peanut butter sandwiches, tears and pleas to my mom followed: "I beg of you to home school me even if the truant officer arrests our entire family!"
What does being thrown into a social atmosphere against one's will teach a person? I eventually learned to hold my own in gender wars and political dissensions and to stand up for my principles (and principals like Dale Pence who’s among the best ever) and to withstand class clowns, jocks, bullies, roller derby wenches, and May Queen types and to empathize with wallflowers, bookworms and good-hearted souls wherever they may be. Not too shabby. Would I ever wish to return to those once mandated public education days? Never in a million years…except LIFE itself seems to be a continuation of that repetitious, imposed, artificial structure.
My idol Vonnegut writes in his introduction to "Slapstick" that if there is a heaven, one fine day we surely must mill around way up there at that earlier precise age when we existed at our very best…for me that would be age ten. I looked pretty great -- skinny, with a small nose. My hairdo reflected that I occasionally brushed my tresses. I got my favorite doll ever for Christmas. My mom had forgiven me for requesting a picture of a duck-billed platypus during breakfast the exact morning of my science project's due date! I discovered how to really care about animals and their welfare and their rights to life. I wore a wonderful necklace, allll of the time, which consisted of a teensy Bible -- which actually could be opened a la locket -- dangling demurely from a delicate chain. I learned a great deal about those "boys who must be boys" and about those girls who sometimes block the progress of other girls and about those adults who are not always wise. Enduring a little brutishness made me the person I am today, scarred, wounded, yet determined that if given the opportunity I could forgive past transgressions but would positively either ban or reform "Scut Farkus" (see "A Christmas Story") and his ilk forevermore.
"When you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the way from your first cigarette to your last dyin' day. When you're a Jet, if the spit hits the fan, you got brothers around; you're a family man! You're never alone; you're never disconnected! You're home with your own: when company's expected, you're well protected! … When you're a Jet, you're the top cat in town; you're the gold medal kid with the heavyweight crown! When you're a Jet, you're the swingin'est thing: little boy, you're a man; little man, you're a king!" … ~ "West Side Story" ~ Leonard Bernstein & Stephen Sondheim
____________________
neat feedback!
Neil J. Simon: "Such vivid memories. That is great that she has them and can write so clearly about them."
Melinda Boyer Kelley: "Wow...that brought back memories!! Thanks, Susie!!!"
Shannon Wright: "Wow, that brought back memories! Guess it made me who I am today :)"
Mary Shaull: "You are more kind that I would have been. Wonder where the bully boy is now. As a teacher of that age child, I guess I worried more about the sad and 'odd' kids than the bullies. The young bullies are no doubt old bullies now. But the sad, odd ones often didn't make it. I know. Not sure where I'm going with this, so I'll stop."
Tressa Marie: "Thank you very much for sharing this <3"
Colleen Hornidge: "Roy you have the greatest mom in the world you must be very special too! we are big fans of your mother and her writings! Happy Valentine's Day to you too.... Colleen.. Ellie and ...Isabella"
Mina Linda: "Thank you very much :)"
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "Thank you so much Roy and Susie <3<3 you both"
B. Anne Giles Watson: "FINALLY bought your book. I was at Memory Lane...and there it was! I got the book AND your card! I'm thrilled!!!! Will be reading soon! :). Love you!!!!"
Drex Morton: "This article was remarkable... I so appreciate the fact that we (artistic types) have experienced a type of earlier youthful tyranny that just emboldened us to stand stronger than we might have otherwise... :)"
Shellie Blum: "Great page Susie, keep on keeping on!"
Barb Nicholson: "Amazing how much bullies got away with eons ago. Now, all a kid has to do is look cross-eyed at another kid and it is immediate suspension. Something like pushing one button on your computer and all your troubles are gone (well maybe not all of them)! Happy Monday to you!"
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
February 7, 2013
History bears repeating...video histories of Susie Duncan Sexton and Roy Sexton
from Columbia City's Peabody Library website - two video histories, one of me and one of my son Roy...thanks to Deb Lowrance and the library for the opportunity! Descriptions and links below...
Susie Sexton's father, Roy Duncan, was in charge of the Columbia City Blue Bell factory for many years. Susie herself grew up in Columbia City and lives today in the same home she was brought to as a baby. In this interview, Susie reminisces about Columbia City, her parents, the Blue Bell factory, the local theater and churches, and life in general. Watch by clicking here.
Roy Sexton tells about growing up in Columbia City, recalling favorite teachers, pastimes, and unique opportunities he was privileged to experience in a small town. Watch by clicking here.
____________________
neat feedback!
Kelly Huddleston: "Susie Sexton, I'm watching your interview filmed at Peabody Public Library. You tell your recollections about your hometown with such warmth, candor, humor and wit. What a treasure you are. Love it and love you!"
Barbara Nicholson: "So interesting! Both of you did a great interview and should have a 'feel good all over' for the library to preserve valuable background from years past for future generations!"
David Rat: "a video interview with the lovely Susie Sexton...really a thrill for me to see someone you love and respect so dearly speak about her experiences...I feel closer to her now.♥"
Liz Berry Schatzlein: "What a great interview, Roy! Awww, dad would be so touched that you talked about him. Now his place is preserved forever in the oral history of Whitley County!"
David Ross: "These two people [Susie and Roy] know their audience, and they know how to reach them...by inclusion. Superb effort by both! We should each take a page from their book."
Renee McIntosh Pepple: "so cool!!!! thank you for sharing :) i am watching it now!! we will never be old!!! Roy, i think of them alot!!! i miss you and those days! love you :) omg so awesome!!!! it made me tear up!!!"
Neil J. Simon: "These are sweet and great for historical purposes. I scanned them and you both look and sound great!"
Tressa Marie: "Love the photo of Susie in here!...I haven't watched all of it yet, but will. Such nice, wonderful, amazing memories you must have. It seems you grew up in such a happy, wonderful home with very loving parents. <3"
Betsy O'Donnell: "Loved it, Roy. Made me miss you. By the way, cool watch!"
Mary Shaull: "Betsy liked your watch, Roy. I loved your left hand. Really talked. Both interviews were amazing! (Have I used that adjective before, when talking of you and Mom?) I, like David Rat, feel that I know you both so well. You are both so relaxed and REAL with the interviews. Writers and actors and wonderful people - the whole shebang. (How do you spell shebang?)"
Jennifer Zartman Romano: "I can't get it to play on my phone, but I'll try the desktop. How cool! I was so thrilled to see how many treasures who are no longer with us left their stories there!!"
Jen Kelley Morgan: "I really want to get this to work! I see that my Uncle Max Reed has a video!! ... Finally able to watch it!!! Just a few minutes in. Roy you look fab!!! ... Oh my gosh how fun to watch!!! I've got to figure out how to get these to play on my laptop at home...can't spend my whole work day watching vids. LOL."
Chele Surfus Hank: "Oh my! Good times! Miss those days! I'm pretty sure I blew a tire riding down someone's cement stairs....We OWNED the town on our bikes!...Such sweet memories. I'm so thankful for being raised in Columbia City. I wish my children could have grown up in my day in my town. I hate not allowing them to ride all over the place on their bikes like we did back then. These are different times and Marion is just not the same place as CC always was. Thanks for the memories, Roy Sexton & Susie Sexton!! ... I loved how you spoke about your parents. I remember when you first moved to CC & thinking they were like story book characters! I always thought they were two of the most interesting people I had ever met!"
Ann Parkes: "Susie's interview ended when she was still in full flow!! Enjoyed it. Hope to listen to yours soon, Roy. Thanks for posting....No surprise Susie likes James Dean - rebel WITH a cause. Didn't realise he died on my birthday - I shall remember that each year from now on!"
Bob Kellogg: "Very good, Roy."
Gloria Cameron: "OMG, Susie looks beautiful and you are still the HANDSOMEST, Roy!!"
Meg Trafford: "Oh Roy! Your mom is so cool!!!!!! I just love her website ... I have only browsed through but love it so far ... I look forward to reading some of her work! Thanks again!"
Colin Lively: "i'm looking at Susie Sexton's video.. she doesn't like to neck at the movie theater....she wants to watch Lana Turner...me too...i want to watch Lana Turner...they found white slacks under her [Susie's sister's] bed...god knows that isn't today...i am howling at susie's comment about West Ward.. .i'm thinking of doing the same thing about Rainelle, West Virginia...oh, god, i miss Lana Turner, and most especially, I miss Joan Crawford. the white trash have taken over...slatterns, sluts, and strumpets! Roy, i loved the video of your mother talking about her history growing up in Columbia City.. it was a trip down Memory Lane for me... my life is on a parallel with hers.. I miss Lana Turner too... this is so great.. i think susie should be a PBS documentary..she is adorable.. love her to pieces.."
Julie Jo: "Your mom is interesting, Roy. I could definitely sit and have a conversation with her. She reminds me of my neighbor. Very friendly lady with lots of character."
Angel Wings: "Very nice!"
Kathy Lahmeyer: "THANK YOU, ROY!!!"
Diane Baxter MacArthur: "Cool, Roy!"
Jonny Rio: "very entertaining, Roy!"
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "Susie, you have another winner here but then I have no doubt in my mind when I read one of your articles that it will be a winner. Roy, you have your Mom's blood running through your veins and you have your own talent as well but if you had any doubt, don't! I'm so proud of you too. Can't wait to be able to come and watch one of your many plays. Both of you take care of yourselves and thank you both for sharing your lives with all of us. Love you both and feel very blessed to know you."
BJ Bobbi Jo Rucker: "I am enjoying this video. I am only about half way through and will finish the rest later. I am enjoying the laughter especially. Since I too am from Columbia City, I can picture in my mind the local places Susie mentions. My parents talk about that movie theater that was where the bank is now. They say it was the place to go back in the day. Neat to hear a local person's stories!"
Paul Clifford Schrade: "highly entertaining to say the least!! Thank God that Susie was never lured away by the glittering lights of other places..that her heart and loyalty remained in the soil of her birth and that she is indigenous to it!..that she proliferated from those green acres..like a pulsing lens that continues to record all that was meaningful and of value. Susan, you are our connection to the wonderful days..so brief!..when we were truly alive and America was a vibrant youngster!..and if you have your way..we'll never forget it!! You continue to inject the adrenalin into us weary, staggering masses. You enable us to remember all that is important in this land of our birth! The hills are alive not only with the sound of music, but also with the indefatigable voice of SUSIE!!!"
Mary Shaull's Secrets review on Amazon: "Susie writes so amazingly that I can't wait to see what magic her next sentence or thought will be. She rants and raves about her feelings and causes, and then sweetness pours out....all so true and sincere. She has made me rethink so many things about love, family, animals, values and life. How I admire her honesty and her gift of words."
this is exceptional...almost cried sentimental tears about three times...but i didn't wanna miss a word! so i remained attentive instead!
i have died and gone to heaven...thanks, folks...this was and is such fun...sharing LIFE's stories!
Paro Babu: "Truly your mom looks awesome in these pictures, Roy !! Her beauty lies in her words and writings and all the work she has done till now and her numerous works that she is doing....God bless you both ♥ Congratulations, Susie ♥ we all love your work ♥"
Mary Shaull: "I just re-enjoyed both Susie and Roy's Columbia City video stories. Truly appreciate hearing the details of your lives and what makes you tick. Susie, you're a riot! Your whole body gestures as you go from topic to topic, without a pause. As you said, you write like you talk - like you ARE. I wish I knew more people like you. Roy, you made me so proud of you, with your telling of your growing up in a small town, and how your achievements as a youngster carried on into your successes as an adult. You credit your parents for much of your happiness and success. How refreshing to hear. Both of you are amazing people. Love you!"
Drex Morton: "Roy, I especially love the photo of you and yours when you were just a wee lad!"
____________________
Authors for Animals! From wonderful David Rat: "The fierce animal rights warrior Susie Duncan Sexton has joined the ranks! how exciting!! purchase Susie´s 'Secrets of an old Typewriter' during Feb. and $1 per sale goes to www.castawaycritters.org."
Please take a moment to check out this great event and help if you can. Thanks! Click here for more event info!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
Susie Sexton's father, Roy Duncan, was in charge of the Columbia City Blue Bell factory for many years. Susie herself grew up in Columbia City and lives today in the same home she was brought to as a baby. In this interview, Susie reminisces about Columbia City, her parents, the Blue Bell factory, the local theater and churches, and life in general. Watch by clicking here.
Roy Sexton tells about growing up in Columbia City, recalling favorite teachers, pastimes, and unique opportunities he was privileged to experience in a small town. Watch by clicking here.
____________________
neat feedback!
Kelly Huddleston: "Susie Sexton, I'm watching your interview filmed at Peabody Public Library. You tell your recollections about your hometown with such warmth, candor, humor and wit. What a treasure you are. Love it and love you!"
Barbara Nicholson: "So interesting! Both of you did a great interview and should have a 'feel good all over' for the library to preserve valuable background from years past for future generations!"
David Rat: "a video interview with the lovely Susie Sexton...really a thrill for me to see someone you love and respect so dearly speak about her experiences...I feel closer to her now.♥"
Liz Berry Schatzlein: "What a great interview, Roy! Awww, dad would be so touched that you talked about him. Now his place is preserved forever in the oral history of Whitley County!"
David Ross: "These two people [Susie and Roy] know their audience, and they know how to reach them...by inclusion. Superb effort by both! We should each take a page from their book."
Renee McIntosh Pepple: "so cool!!!! thank you for sharing :) i am watching it now!! we will never be old!!! Roy, i think of them alot!!! i miss you and those days! love you :) omg so awesome!!!! it made me tear up!!!"
Neil J. Simon: "These are sweet and great for historical purposes. I scanned them and you both look and sound great!"
Tressa Marie: "Love the photo of Susie in here!...I haven't watched all of it yet, but will. Such nice, wonderful, amazing memories you must have. It seems you grew up in such a happy, wonderful home with very loving parents. <3"
Betsy O'Donnell: "Loved it, Roy. Made me miss you. By the way, cool watch!"
Mary Shaull: "Betsy liked your watch, Roy. I loved your left hand. Really talked. Both interviews were amazing! (Have I used that adjective before, when talking of you and Mom?) I, like David Rat, feel that I know you both so well. You are both so relaxed and REAL with the interviews. Writers and actors and wonderful people - the whole shebang. (How do you spell shebang?)"
Jennifer Zartman Romano: "I can't get it to play on my phone, but I'll try the desktop. How cool! I was so thrilled to see how many treasures who are no longer with us left their stories there!!"
Jen Kelley Morgan: "I really want to get this to work! I see that my Uncle Max Reed has a video!! ... Finally able to watch it!!! Just a few minutes in. Roy you look fab!!! ... Oh my gosh how fun to watch!!! I've got to figure out how to get these to play on my laptop at home...can't spend my whole work day watching vids. LOL."
Chele Surfus Hank: "Oh my! Good times! Miss those days! I'm pretty sure I blew a tire riding down someone's cement stairs....We OWNED the town on our bikes!...Such sweet memories. I'm so thankful for being raised in Columbia City. I wish my children could have grown up in my day in my town. I hate not allowing them to ride all over the place on their bikes like we did back then. These are different times and Marion is just not the same place as CC always was. Thanks for the memories, Roy Sexton & Susie Sexton!! ... I loved how you spoke about your parents. I remember when you first moved to CC & thinking they were like story book characters! I always thought they were two of the most interesting people I had ever met!"
Ann Parkes: "Susie's interview ended when she was still in full flow!! Enjoyed it. Hope to listen to yours soon, Roy. Thanks for posting....No surprise Susie likes James Dean - rebel WITH a cause. Didn't realise he died on my birthday - I shall remember that each year from now on!"
Bob Kellogg: "Very good, Roy."
Gloria Cameron: "OMG, Susie looks beautiful and you are still the HANDSOMEST, Roy!!"
Meg Trafford: "Oh Roy! Your mom is so cool!!!!!! I just love her website ... I have only browsed through but love it so far ... I look forward to reading some of her work! Thanks again!"
Colin Lively: "i'm looking at Susie Sexton's video.. she doesn't like to neck at the movie theater....she wants to watch Lana Turner...me too...i want to watch Lana Turner...they found white slacks under her [Susie's sister's] bed...god knows that isn't today...i am howling at susie's comment about West Ward.. .i'm thinking of doing the same thing about Rainelle, West Virginia...oh, god, i miss Lana Turner, and most especially, I miss Joan Crawford. the white trash have taken over...slatterns, sluts, and strumpets! Roy, i loved the video of your mother talking about her history growing up in Columbia City.. it was a trip down Memory Lane for me... my life is on a parallel with hers.. I miss Lana Turner too... this is so great.. i think susie should be a PBS documentary..she is adorable.. love her to pieces.."
Julie Jo: "Your mom is interesting, Roy. I could definitely sit and have a conversation with her. She reminds me of my neighbor. Very friendly lady with lots of character."
Angel Wings: "Very nice!"
Kathy Lahmeyer: "THANK YOU, ROY!!!"
Diane Baxter MacArthur: "Cool, Roy!"
Jonny Rio: "very entertaining, Roy!"
Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "Susie, you have another winner here but then I have no doubt in my mind when I read one of your articles that it will be a winner. Roy, you have your Mom's blood running through your veins and you have your own talent as well but if you had any doubt, don't! I'm so proud of you too. Can't wait to be able to come and watch one of your many plays. Both of you take care of yourselves and thank you both for sharing your lives with all of us. Love you both and feel very blessed to know you."
BJ Bobbi Jo Rucker: "I am enjoying this video. I am only about half way through and will finish the rest later. I am enjoying the laughter especially. Since I too am from Columbia City, I can picture in my mind the local places Susie mentions. My parents talk about that movie theater that was where the bank is now. They say it was the place to go back in the day. Neat to hear a local person's stories!"
Paul Clifford Schrade: "highly entertaining to say the least!! Thank God that Susie was never lured away by the glittering lights of other places..that her heart and loyalty remained in the soil of her birth and that she is indigenous to it!..that she proliferated from those green acres..like a pulsing lens that continues to record all that was meaningful and of value. Susan, you are our connection to the wonderful days..so brief!..when we were truly alive and America was a vibrant youngster!..and if you have your way..we'll never forget it!! You continue to inject the adrenalin into us weary, staggering masses. You enable us to remember all that is important in this land of our birth! The hills are alive not only with the sound of music, but also with the indefatigable voice of SUSIE!!!"
Mary Shaull's Secrets review on Amazon: "Susie writes so amazingly that I can't wait to see what magic her next sentence or thought will be. She rants and raves about her feelings and causes, and then sweetness pours out....all so true and sincere. She has made me rethink so many things about love, family, animals, values and life. How I admire her honesty and her gift of words."
this is exceptional...almost cried sentimental tears about three times...but i didn't wanna miss a word! so i remained attentive instead!
i have died and gone to heaven...thanks, folks...this was and is such fun...sharing LIFE's stories!
Paro Babu: "Truly your mom looks awesome in these pictures, Roy !! Her beauty lies in her words and writings and all the work she has done till now and her numerous works that she is doing....God bless you both ♥ Congratulations, Susie ♥ we all love your work ♥"
Mary Shaull: "I just re-enjoyed both Susie and Roy's Columbia City video stories. Truly appreciate hearing the details of your lives and what makes you tick. Susie, you're a riot! Your whole body gestures as you go from topic to topic, without a pause. As you said, you write like you talk - like you ARE. I wish I knew more people like you. Roy, you made me so proud of you, with your telling of your growing up in a small town, and how your achievements as a youngster carried on into your successes as an adult. You credit your parents for much of your happiness and success. How refreshing to hear. Both of you are amazing people. Love you!"
Drex Morton: "Roy, I especially love the photo of you and yours when you were just a wee lad!"
____________________
Authors for Animals! From wonderful David Rat: "The fierce animal rights warrior Susie Duncan Sexton has joined the ranks! how exciting!! purchase Susie´s 'Secrets of an old Typewriter' during Feb. and $1 per sale goes to www.castawaycritters.org."
Please take a moment to check out this great event and help if you can. Thanks! Click here for more event info!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
February 4, 2013
Latest Old Type Writer column: My Funny Valentine...a 'Penny Serenade'
Read the original post from www.talkofthetownwc.com by clicking here...
(Talk of the Town photo provided/Susie Duncan Sexton Collection) Above, Susie's parents, Roy and Edna Duncan, are shown here shortly after their elopement in 1930. The original photo is faded, dog-eared and much loved -- carried in a wallet for years and years.
By Susie Duncan Sexton
Dutifully responding to my shameless suggestion, my son Roy bought me another book! David Denby impressed me terrifically as a guest on the Charlie Rose show, defending movies "the way they were" when author Denby and I both fell loyally, tenaciously in love with the cinematic industry -- without reservation. At the height of the awards season, everybody and his brother pay closer attention to all of the creativity, talent, hype, and multi-faceted Herculean tasks underscoring favorite "final products" emanating from Hollywood prior to any one of us easing into a comfy chair while clasping a tub of popcorn and a jumbo Coca-Cola. The New Yorker reviewer notes in his Introduction of "Do the Movies Have a Future?": "At its best, the new Internet cinephilia generates an unstoppable, exfoliating mass of knowledge and opinion, a thickening density of inquiries, claims, reference points, agreements, outraged and dulcet tweets, rebuttals, summations, dismissals." This author claims that all of our premier critics (Pauline Kael among them) --whose "household word-ish" bylines once mesmerized an adoring spellbound public -- presently would be bloggers rather than formerly "sought after" celebrity experts.
Well, Roy blogs fabulously via his "Reel Reviews" (www.reelroyreviews.com), and his Facebook audience and at least two Detroit newspapers (and one UK blog!) urge him at every turn to PUBLISH his rapidly expanding collection of fair and honest and loving critiques; each one shines, as gems always do! Reel Roy's brilliant, witty, reverent love letters -- laced with gentle candor -- entice me to leave the house, the sole purpose being to either confirm his evaluations or argue with his appraisals the very next time he visits. He, still the epitome of youth, open-mindedly appreciates special effects, unlimited sequels, Claymation, and comic book characters replacing Gable and Cooper as super-heroes! We once engaged in a blistering argument, aching to settle whether his Madonna or my Marlene Dietrich more honestly deserved the title of "legendary icon for the ages" status.
Not particularly a fan of "romance movies", I do know one when I see one…and "date night chick flicks", which plagued the conclusion of the 20th and the start of the 21st centuries, pale miserably by comparison to perhaps my all-time single favorite of that genre! PENNY SERENADE (1941)! Believe me when I say that not even Doris Day, Rock Hudson, Sandra Dee and Troy Donohue qualify as romantic in my book. (Perhaps the magnetic coupling of Elizabeth Taylor and Montgomery Clift in the fifties' "Place in the Sun", based on Hoosier author Theodore Dreiser's perfect novel "An American Tragedy", moves my heart-ometer. Maybe…) Neither any screwball comedy starring Ft. Wayne native Carole Lombard nor an "unending rapid-fire fun and quips at the newspaper office" piece of pizzazz featuring some wise-cracking Roz Russell type dame nor a sob-story chronicling "Camille" as portrayed by Greta Garbo who coughs to death in the arms of Robert Taylor -- although all entries being vintage which is my preference -- earns a spot as THE most romantic cinematic endeavor of all time!
Denby writes of that magic era of film classics dating from 1934 to 1941: "Many of the heroines were heiresses, who, in those days, were prized for their burbling eccentricities -- Carole Lombard's howl, Irene Dunne's giggle, Katharine Hepburn's Bryn Mawr drawl. Pampered and dizzy, they were nevertheless smart enough, when choosing a man, to favor spontaneity over security, spirit over solidity." Wait, David! NOT IRENE DUNNE (seldom ditzy but certainly always "smart enough")… as the down-to-earth, (yes, sometimes giggling), independent-thinking, peppy, mildly ambitious, record store clerk who falls instantly yet believably-deeply in like-respect with a regular fellow (Cary Grant portraying THE most credible, somewhat spontaneous, spirited and SOLID regular fellow ever --trust me!) at first glance, through a store window. They marry. They struggle with finances. They work together to earn barely a decent living. They adopt an infant. Circumstances push the two of them to face facts that they no longer care for one another. They remember that indeed they do. Their time together evokes much genuine laughter and demands a handy, well-stocked carton of Kleen-exes. Just like life. The most perfect story captured within approximately two hours, I can honestly report, that I have ever watched… Now, please "follow the bouncing ball", and let us segue into exquisitely appropriate song lyrics for this time of the year:
My funny Valentine
Sweet comic Valentine
You make me smile with my heart
Your looks are laughable
Unphotographable
Yet you're my favourite work of art
Is your figure less than Greek
Is your mouth a little weak
When you open it to speak
Are you smart?
But don't change a hair for me
Not if you care for me
Stay little Valentine stay
Each day is Valentine's day
(from the musical "Pal Joey" written in 1940 by Richard Rodgers & Lorenz Hart)
neat feedback on the above!
Neil J. Simon: "Thanks for sending it. She is so enjoyable!"
Mary Shaull: "Loved the column, Susie. AND I took the song personally, as my birthday is on Valentine's Day. I married an engineer, so Valentine's Day and my birthday are analyzed, not romanticized. Your song lifted my spirits. (Reminds me of another song I adore: Bill. .... His charm and grace, his manly face are not the kind that you would find on a statue......I love him because he's - I don't know - because he's just my Bill.)"
David Rat: "Susie rocks!"
Barbara Nicholson: "You know I love reading your mom’s columns. They take me back in time even though some of the time is before my time! ;) I totally agree with her on Penny Serenade! What’s not to like about Irene Dunne and Cary Grant!!!!!"
Drex Morton: "Well deserved! You come from and continue talented expression, Roy! Well deserved. And the acorn reflects the hue and vitality of the oak!"
addendum...
i forgot to add that my mom and dad met in a 5 and 10 cent store and that he nicknamed her "snooks"! <3! they were something else! probably why i adore PENNY SERENADE...plus the other reason is that don and i only got married to combine our...record collections! they line the walls now..."old-fashioned" LPS! ;) i am needing to watch the movie again now for the umpteenth time!
yep, i always remember what i forgot as soon as something gets published...not a moment earlier! must be a term for that?
____________________
Authors for Animals! From wonderful David Rat: "The fierce animal rights warrior Susie Duncan Sexton has joined the ranks! how exciting!! purchase Susie´s 'Secrets of an old Typewriter' during Feb. and $1 per sale goes to www.castawaycritters.org."
Please take a moment to check out this great event and help if you can. Thanks! Click here for more event info!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
(Talk of the Town photo provided/Susie Duncan Sexton Collection) Above, Susie's parents, Roy and Edna Duncan, are shown here shortly after their elopement in 1930. The original photo is faded, dog-eared and much loved -- carried in a wallet for years and years.
By Susie Duncan Sexton
Dutifully responding to my shameless suggestion, my son Roy bought me another book! David Denby impressed me terrifically as a guest on the Charlie Rose show, defending movies "the way they were" when author Denby and I both fell loyally, tenaciously in love with the cinematic industry -- without reservation. At the height of the awards season, everybody and his brother pay closer attention to all of the creativity, talent, hype, and multi-faceted Herculean tasks underscoring favorite "final products" emanating from Hollywood prior to any one of us easing into a comfy chair while clasping a tub of popcorn and a jumbo Coca-Cola. The New Yorker reviewer notes in his Introduction of "Do the Movies Have a Future?": "At its best, the new Internet cinephilia generates an unstoppable, exfoliating mass of knowledge and opinion, a thickening density of inquiries, claims, reference points, agreements, outraged and dulcet tweets, rebuttals, summations, dismissals." This author claims that all of our premier critics (Pauline Kael among them) --whose "household word-ish" bylines once mesmerized an adoring spellbound public -- presently would be bloggers rather than formerly "sought after" celebrity experts.
Well, Roy blogs fabulously via his "Reel Reviews" (www.reelroyreviews.com), and his Facebook audience and at least two Detroit newspapers (and one UK blog!) urge him at every turn to PUBLISH his rapidly expanding collection of fair and honest and loving critiques; each one shines, as gems always do! Reel Roy's brilliant, witty, reverent love letters -- laced with gentle candor -- entice me to leave the house, the sole purpose being to either confirm his evaluations or argue with his appraisals the very next time he visits. He, still the epitome of youth, open-mindedly appreciates special effects, unlimited sequels, Claymation, and comic book characters replacing Gable and Cooper as super-heroes! We once engaged in a blistering argument, aching to settle whether his Madonna or my Marlene Dietrich more honestly deserved the title of "legendary icon for the ages" status.
Not particularly a fan of "romance movies", I do know one when I see one…and "date night chick flicks", which plagued the conclusion of the 20th and the start of the 21st centuries, pale miserably by comparison to perhaps my all-time single favorite of that genre! PENNY SERENADE (1941)! Believe me when I say that not even Doris Day, Rock Hudson, Sandra Dee and Troy Donohue qualify as romantic in my book. (Perhaps the magnetic coupling of Elizabeth Taylor and Montgomery Clift in the fifties' "Place in the Sun", based on Hoosier author Theodore Dreiser's perfect novel "An American Tragedy", moves my heart-ometer. Maybe…) Neither any screwball comedy starring Ft. Wayne native Carole Lombard nor an "unending rapid-fire fun and quips at the newspaper office" piece of pizzazz featuring some wise-cracking Roz Russell type dame nor a sob-story chronicling "Camille" as portrayed by Greta Garbo who coughs to death in the arms of Robert Taylor -- although all entries being vintage which is my preference -- earns a spot as THE most romantic cinematic endeavor of all time!
Denby writes of that magic era of film classics dating from 1934 to 1941: "Many of the heroines were heiresses, who, in those days, were prized for their burbling eccentricities -- Carole Lombard's howl, Irene Dunne's giggle, Katharine Hepburn's Bryn Mawr drawl. Pampered and dizzy, they were nevertheless smart enough, when choosing a man, to favor spontaneity over security, spirit over solidity." Wait, David! NOT IRENE DUNNE (seldom ditzy but certainly always "smart enough")… as the down-to-earth, (yes, sometimes giggling), independent-thinking, peppy, mildly ambitious, record store clerk who falls instantly yet believably-deeply in like-respect with a regular fellow (Cary Grant portraying THE most credible, somewhat spontaneous, spirited and SOLID regular fellow ever --trust me!) at first glance, through a store window. They marry. They struggle with finances. They work together to earn barely a decent living. They adopt an infant. Circumstances push the two of them to face facts that they no longer care for one another. They remember that indeed they do. Their time together evokes much genuine laughter and demands a handy, well-stocked carton of Kleen-exes. Just like life. The most perfect story captured within approximately two hours, I can honestly report, that I have ever watched… Now, please "follow the bouncing ball", and let us segue into exquisitely appropriate song lyrics for this time of the year:
My funny Valentine
Sweet comic Valentine
You make me smile with my heart
Your looks are laughable
Unphotographable
Yet you're my favourite work of art
Is your figure less than Greek
Is your mouth a little weak
When you open it to speak
Are you smart?
But don't change a hair for me
Not if you care for me
Stay little Valentine stay
Each day is Valentine's day
(from the musical "Pal Joey" written in 1940 by Richard Rodgers & Lorenz Hart)
neat feedback on the above!
Neil J. Simon: "Thanks for sending it. She is so enjoyable!"
Mary Shaull: "Loved the column, Susie. AND I took the song personally, as my birthday is on Valentine's Day. I married an engineer, so Valentine's Day and my birthday are analyzed, not romanticized. Your song lifted my spirits. (Reminds me of another song I adore: Bill. .... His charm and grace, his manly face are not the kind that you would find on a statue......I love him because he's - I don't know - because he's just my Bill.)"
David Rat: "Susie rocks!"
Barbara Nicholson: "You know I love reading your mom’s columns. They take me back in time even though some of the time is before my time! ;) I totally agree with her on Penny Serenade! What’s not to like about Irene Dunne and Cary Grant!!!!!"
Drex Morton: "Well deserved! You come from and continue talented expression, Roy! Well deserved. And the acorn reflects the hue and vitality of the oak!"
addendum...
i forgot to add that my mom and dad met in a 5 and 10 cent store and that he nicknamed her "snooks"! <3! they were something else! probably why i adore PENNY SERENADE...plus the other reason is that don and i only got married to combine our...record collections! they line the walls now..."old-fashioned" LPS! ;) i am needing to watch the movie again now for the umpteenth time!
yep, i always remember what i forgot as soon as something gets published...not a moment earlier! must be a term for that?
____________________
Authors for Animals! From wonderful David Rat: "The fierce animal rights warrior Susie Duncan Sexton has joined the ranks! how exciting!! purchase Susie´s 'Secrets of an old Typewriter' during Feb. and $1 per sale goes to www.castawaycritters.org."
Please take a moment to check out this great event and help if you can. Thanks! Click here for more event info!
____________________
Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter - print and ebook versions available (click the title to order from publisher Open Books' website). Also available in both formats at Amazon.com, or download from iTunes
Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page
Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com
Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or won't
Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town Girl
