Today was probably the worst day possible for us as grandparents. We attended the services for Heavenlee today and as services go, it was pretty good. Seeing our beloved granddaughter lying there, looking very much like a porcelain doll was the most difficult thing we have ever done as grandparents. We Love her and will miss her for the rest of our days here on Earth!
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Heavenlee Angel Skie Johns (2004-2012)
It's very difficult to find anything to be thankful for today. Last night at 1:07am, our grandaughter, Heavenlee Angel Skie Johns passed away at the age of 8 from complications associated with her accident 3 years ago. I can't begin to express my sorrow, as well as my wife Amanda's at losing such a precious part of our lives. We were permitted to visit her last night, knowing that she would soon leave us and we are grateful for being allowed to say goodbye to Heavenlee. My only comfort is that we will be surrounded by loving family members today as we gather to remember the good times Heavenlee brought to our lives. Cooking the Thanksgiving dinner has been a help in taking my mind off of just how very sad I feel right now. In the coming days, we will begin to heal and move forward, making sure never to forget just how wonderful a granddaughter she truly was.
Monday, October 29, 2012
NYC in Darkness!!
The power of the weather can do magical things, including this!
New York City in near total darkness!
Time to call on the Wiz!
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Oz At The Auction Yet Again!
As usual, I find myself at a local auction barn which has played a substantial role in my writings about the Land of Oz. And as always, Oz shows up, though usually, it's movie related.
This time, the Oz of old, being in the form of books turned up.
I was most pleased to purchase the Royal Book of Oz as I did not have that one. I think it may be a 1st edition, though further research is required.
Although this book is shown as being written by L. Frank Baum, it actually is more likely the work of Ruth Plumly Thompson, the successor to Mr. Baum as the Royal Historian of Oz. It was released in 1921, 2 years following L. Frank Baum's death, though it is suggested that he wrote most of it and Ruth Plumly Thompson expanded on his work. Who can say?
These two books are reprints from early stories by L. Frank Baum and were printed in 1939 in response to the then just released MGM Wizard of Oz movie everyone knows so well.
All three are in good condition and I am very pleased to add them to my collection. I wonder what I'll find next at the auction???
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
This time, the Oz of old, being in the form of books turned up.
I was most pleased to purchase the Royal Book of Oz as I did not have that one. I think it may be a 1st edition, though further research is required.
Although this book is shown as being written by L. Frank Baum, it actually is more likely the work of Ruth Plumly Thompson, the successor to Mr. Baum as the Royal Historian of Oz. It was released in 1921, 2 years following L. Frank Baum's death, though it is suggested that he wrote most of it and Ruth Plumly Thompson expanded on his work. Who can say?
These two books are reprints from early stories by L. Frank Baum and were printed in 1939 in response to the then just released MGM Wizard of Oz movie everyone knows so well.
All three are in good condition and I am very pleased to add them to my collection. I wonder what I'll find next at the auction???
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
The Newest Magical Acquisition!
The auction once again delivers into my gaping maw, a gem, a jewel, some piece of this or that... or even the other!
Such was last night at a local auction barn I frequent weekly. It's called General Auction, but those in the know, know that its the Bauer Boys who run the show!
Anyways, here's what I got!!!
Ain't it something? As a magician, I'm always pleased when I can emulate Houdini.
Dad would have been pleased. Especialy since the original pricetag was attached.
I paid $0.50 more for it!!!
Sometime next year, the Portable Colonel will arrive...
Per Ardua Ad Alta
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival 2012: Part 2
In mid-September, the wonderful town of Chesterton, Indiana hosts an incredible Wizard of Oz Festival and this year's festival was as wonderful as ever. I spoke last week about my first day there. Now, we take a look at day two on Sunday, September 16th, 2012.
Day two was as beautiful a day as day one, which is highly unusual for the Oz festival. Normally, one of the three days has rain... but not this year. Crowds were good and despite an odd repositioning of authors that gave us some concerns, foot traffic was acceptable, though next year, I hope to be back on the main drag (so to speak).
On this day, there was a wonderful puppet show called "Bob Wall's Wizard of Oz Puppet show".
This was, in my opinion, one of the best parts of this year's Wizard of Oz festival. The kids were enthralled by the performance and every show was packed with kids and adults who seemed genuinely captivated by the marrionettes, all of which were very old and highly detailed.
I hope the folks at Chesterton bring this show back next year. I thought it worked very well and was a wonderful experience for young and old alike.
As usual, the Tin Woodman was in tall attendance,
as well as more Dorothy's than you could shake a stick at!
It was great to see many old friends at Oz, including Walter Krueger, who has one of the biggest Oz collections imaginable. I consider him to be a great guy and a good friend who I always look forward to seeing at every Oz festival I attend.
The closing ceremony was, as always, well attended.
As always, whenever John Fricke and Margarette Peligrinni (original Munchkin from the 1939 MGM Wizard of Oz movie), get together, the kibbitzing gets going! Those two just love teasing each other and it's easy to see that there is genuine freindship between these two, as well as everyone associated with Oz.
It was also announced who had won the Good Witch vs. Bad Witch comnpetition, which had been the theme of this year's festival. Of course, Good always wins out over Bad,
although the Wicked Witch of the West vowed to return next year and defeat Glinda!
Finally, the festival ended with a rousing sing-along of "We're off to see the Wizard!" in memory of Karl Slover, another Munchkin who passed away last November. I was fortunate enough to have had the honor of knowing Karl and like everyone else, his absence was keenly felt.
After the closing ceremonies, everyone affiliated with the festival gathered for a wrap party. I was quite concerned for the sturdiness of the stage, but it seemed to survive the gathering of Oz.
So now, I wait another year for the next festival in Chesterton. I'm looking forward to it since I'll have a new Oz book, co-authored by myself and my wife Amanda. This new book, The Emerald Slippers of Oz was actually Amanda's idea and I'm finding her to be an outstanding writer.
For now, we seek out other Oz events to attend and count the days until next September... and Oz!!!!
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Day two was as beautiful a day as day one, which is highly unusual for the Oz festival. Normally, one of the three days has rain... but not this year. Crowds were good and despite an odd repositioning of authors that gave us some concerns, foot traffic was acceptable, though next year, I hope to be back on the main drag (so to speak).
On this day, there was a wonderful puppet show called "Bob Wall's Wizard of Oz Puppet show".
This was, in my opinion, one of the best parts of this year's Wizard of Oz festival. The kids were enthralled by the performance and every show was packed with kids and adults who seemed genuinely captivated by the marrionettes, all of which were very old and highly detailed.
I hope the folks at Chesterton bring this show back next year. I thought it worked very well and was a wonderful experience for young and old alike.
As usual, the Tin Woodman was in tall attendance,
as well as more Dorothy's than you could shake a stick at!
It was great to see many old friends at Oz, including Walter Krueger, who has one of the biggest Oz collections imaginable. I consider him to be a great guy and a good friend who I always look forward to seeing at every Oz festival I attend.
The closing ceremony was, as always, well attended.
As always, whenever John Fricke and Margarette Peligrinni (original Munchkin from the 1939 MGM Wizard of Oz movie), get together, the kibbitzing gets going! Those two just love teasing each other and it's easy to see that there is genuine freindship between these two, as well as everyone associated with Oz.
It was also announced who had won the Good Witch vs. Bad Witch comnpetition, which had been the theme of this year's festival. Of course, Good always wins out over Bad,
although the Wicked Witch of the West vowed to return next year and defeat Glinda!
Finally, the festival ended with a rousing sing-along of "We're off to see the Wizard!" in memory of Karl Slover, another Munchkin who passed away last November. I was fortunate enough to have had the honor of knowing Karl and like everyone else, his absence was keenly felt.
After the closing ceremonies, everyone affiliated with the festival gathered for a wrap party. I was quite concerned for the sturdiness of the stage, but it seemed to survive the gathering of Oz.
So now, I wait another year for the next festival in Chesterton. I'm looking forward to it since I'll have a new Oz book, co-authored by myself and my wife Amanda. This new book, The Emerald Slippers of Oz was actually Amanda's idea and I'm finding her to be an outstanding writer.
For now, we seek out other Oz events to attend and count the days until next September... and Oz!!!!
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival 2012: Part 1
Several weeks ago, I attended the 2012 Wizard of Oz festival in Chesterton, Indiana. This was my 4th year and I'm pleased to report that I had a wonderful time!
As always, it starts with a pre-sunrise journey north from my home in Terre Haute, Indiana.
About halfway there, I always come across the Pinwheel Fields, a lovely place that has inspired me in the past to write about them.
Before long, I'm back in Oz, as anyone with an ounce of sense can tell...
I'm fairly certain that the Good Witch in purple is Tattypoo, Good Witch of the North.
As always, I find myself in the morning parade, which always finds the most unusual citizens of Oz milling about.
As usual, the festival was packed... and this year, the weather was very cooperative!!!
The trains though, as usual, were not!!!
As well as Rick Ewigleben and Joe Shipbaugh, both of whom I consider friends and for whom I have the utmost respect.
And best of all, I found myself next to Roger Baum, great grandson of L. Frank Baum, the original author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1899). He and his lovely wife Charlene have more kind to me than I could have ever hoped for. Both Roger and Charlene epitomize all that is good, kind and loving in the Land of Oz!!!
He was very busy that day, not only with his newest book, Enigma of Oz, but with the new movie, Dorothy of Oz, which comes out next year!
The rest of the day saw good sales, despite not having my newest book, The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu on hand, thanks to Createspace and the idiots that run it! They seem incapable of fulfilling a simple print request on time!!!
Nonetheless, I had a good day and was just grateful I was upwind of the facilities!!!
That evening, I found myself, once more, serving as Guest Auctioneer at the Oz Exchange and Auction.
It was good to see John Fricke in attendance...
She has also been very kind to me, especially since she is also a fellow teacher. She once gave me the best article on old weather folklore and language, which I turned into one of my favorite lectures! I can't begin to thank her enough for this!!!
Next time, I'll talk about day two of the festival and a wonderful puppet show and some great people of Oz, all of whom make attending very enjoyable.
As always, it starts with a pre-sunrise journey north from my home in Terre Haute, Indiana.
About halfway there, I always come across the Pinwheel Fields, a lovely place that has inspired me in the past to write about them.
Before long, I'm back in Oz, as anyone with an ounce of sense can tell...
I'm fairly certain that the Good Witch in purple is Tattypoo, Good Witch of the North.
As always, I find myself in the morning parade, which always finds the most unusual citizens of Oz milling about.
As usual, the festival was packed... and this year, the weather was very cooperative!!!
The trains though, as usual, were not!!!
It was good to see Michelle Russel in attendance with her newest book, A Cat Named Toto!
As well as Rick Ewigleben and Joe Shipbaugh, both of whom I consider friends and for whom I have the utmost respect.
And best of all, I found myself next to Roger Baum, great grandson of L. Frank Baum, the original author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1899). He and his lovely wife Charlene have more kind to me than I could have ever hoped for. Both Roger and Charlene epitomize all that is good, kind and loving in the Land of Oz!!!
He was very busy that day, not only with his newest book, Enigma of Oz, but with the new movie, Dorothy of Oz, which comes out next year!
The rest of the day saw good sales, despite not having my newest book, The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu on hand, thanks to Createspace and the idiots that run it! They seem incapable of fulfilling a simple print request on time!!!
Nonetheless, I had a good day and was just grateful I was upwind of the facilities!!!
That evening, I found myself, once more, serving as Guest Auctioneer at the Oz Exchange and Auction.
It was good to see John Fricke in attendance...
As well as Her Majesty, Princess Ozma!
She has also been very kind to me, especially since she is also a fellow teacher. She once gave me the best article on old weather folklore and language, which I turned into one of my favorite lectures! I can't begin to thank her enough for this!!!
Next time, I'll talk about day two of the festival and a wonderful puppet show and some great people of Oz, all of whom make attending very enjoyable.
Totus vos postulo est Amor!!!
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
The Ozian Adventure & the Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival
This weekend, I'll be attending the 2012 Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival. It's a wonderful festival and this will be my 4th year of attendance.
This year, I'll be premiering my newest book, The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu for all the wonderful Wizard of Oz fans of Chesterton.
Of particular interest to any fan of Oz and the Chesterton festival is the fact that this book contains a wonderfully funny pun all about Chesterton. The chapter title is Chester Town and if you wanna know more, well... you're just gonna have to ask me at the festival and perhaps even purchase a copy, autographed by the Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma himself!
Anyone who has been attending the Chesterton Wizard of Oz festival will immediately recognize Chester Town! I think they'll be quite pleased!!!
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
This year, I'll be premiering my newest book, The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu for all the wonderful Wizard of Oz fans of Chesterton.
Of particular interest to any fan of Oz and the Chesterton festival is the fact that this book contains a wonderfully funny pun all about Chesterton. The chapter title is Chester Town and if you wanna know more, well... you're just gonna have to ask me at the festival and perhaps even purchase a copy, autographed by the Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma himself!
Anyone who has been attending the Chesterton Wizard of Oz festival will immediately recognize Chester Town! I think they'll be quite pleased!!!
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Inspiration for The Emerald Slippers of Oz
Recently, I attended the local auction house that once served as inspiration for Shadow Demon of Oz. Although it is called Shadow Auction Barn, I renamed it the Umbra Auction Barn for the story and I have been very pleased with the results.
Now, the Shadow Auction barn has provided yet another item which now serves as inspiration for our newest story, The Emerald Slippers of Oz.
The story idea came from my wife, Amanda, was is also the inspiration for Magician of Oz with her legendary Potato Soup. Now, she is the co-author and is turning out to be a fine writer.
This newest story of Oz involves a couple of witches and a couple of magicians who long to regain their magical powers.
For those of you who are not well versed in the lore of Oz, one of the witches is Blinkie, who appeared in L. Frank Baum's ninth book, The Scarecrow of Oz. The lesser known magician is Ugu the Shoemaker, who made his mark in The Lost Princess of Oz, which is Baum's eleventh book about the Land of Oz.
The other witch is the well known witch, 'Ol Mombi, who you may remember from the 1985 Walt Disney film, Return to Oz. She was actually first introduced by Baum in his second book, The Marvelous Land of Oz.
The other magician in this story is Dr. Pipt, the legendary creator of the Powder of Life, who makes his debut in Oz in Baum's seventh book, The Patchwork Girl of Oz.
Now, all four former conjurers of magic battle for possession of the Emerald Slippers, which were intended as a gift to Her Majesty, Princess Ozma.
We are about halfway through the story and it's looking to be a fine story, worthy of the world of Oz. Me thinks L. Frank Baum would be very pleased.
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Now, the Shadow Auction barn has provided yet another item which now serves as inspiration for our newest story, The Emerald Slippers of Oz.
The story idea came from my wife, Amanda, was is also the inspiration for Magician of Oz with her legendary Potato Soup. Now, she is the co-author and is turning out to be a fine writer.
This newest story of Oz involves a couple of witches and a couple of magicians who long to regain their magical powers.
For those of you who are not well versed in the lore of Oz, one of the witches is Blinkie, who appeared in L. Frank Baum's ninth book, The Scarecrow of Oz. The lesser known magician is Ugu the Shoemaker, who made his mark in The Lost Princess of Oz, which is Baum's eleventh book about the Land of Oz.
The other witch is the well known witch, 'Ol Mombi, who you may remember from the 1985 Walt Disney film, Return to Oz. She was actually first introduced by Baum in his second book, The Marvelous Land of Oz.
The other magician in this story is Dr. Pipt, the legendary creator of the Powder of Life, who makes his debut in Oz in Baum's seventh book, The Patchwork Girl of Oz.
Now, all four former conjurers of magic battle for possession of the Emerald Slippers, which were intended as a gift to Her Majesty, Princess Ozma.
We are about halfway through the story and it's looking to be a fine story, worthy of the world of Oz. Me thinks L. Frank Baum would be very pleased.
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Gauisus Natalis, Wizard of Oz!
Produced in 1939, the Wizard of Oz is an American icon of cinematography and a reflection of American values, of dreams and wishes, of hopes and desires, which every child desires, and every child within us aspires to.
It was based on the original story, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1899); by L. Frank Baum.
Although the movie, which today celebrates the 73rd anniversary of its release, was a memorable part of my childhood, it was the books of Oz, 14 in all, which inspired me to write my own stories of Oz, including Magician of Oz, Shadow Demon of Oz, Family of Oz and The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu.
And yet, it was because of this wonderful movie that I now find myself writing my newest novel about the Land of Oz. Inspired by my wife Amanda, who also serves as co-author, we find ourselves knee-deep in The Emerald Slippers of Oz.
As the Wizard once said as he addressed the citizens of Emerald City while he prepared to take Dorothy home to Kansas in his hot-air balloon;
It was based on the original story, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1899); by L. Frank Baum.
Although the movie, which today celebrates the 73rd anniversary of its release, was a memorable part of my childhood, it was the books of Oz, 14 in all, which inspired me to write my own stories of Oz, including Magician of Oz, Shadow Demon of Oz, Family of Oz and The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu.
And yet, it was because of this wonderful movie that I now find myself writing my newest novel about the Land of Oz. Inspired by my wife Amanda, who also serves as co-author, we find ourselves knee-deep in The Emerald Slippers of Oz.
As the Wizard once said as he addressed the citizens of Emerald City while he prepared to take Dorothy home to Kansas in his hot-air balloon;
Per Ardua Ad Alta!
Happy Birthday, Wizard of Oz!!!
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Wizard of Oz at the Auction... Again!!!
Once again, I'm at the auction when the Wizard of Oz rears his head and beckons to me.
I actually found this on a table of stuff no one wanted, so I took it home and me thinks I'll put it into a give-away basket for the Chesterton Festival next month.
I like the artwork...
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
I actually found this on a table of stuff no one wanted, so I took it home and me thinks I'll put it into a give-away basket for the Chesterton Festival next month.
I like the artwork...
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Gausius Natalis, Princess Ozma!
Today is August 21st, and by account of the Royal Historian of Oz; L. Frank Baum, it is also the official birthday of Princess Ozma; Royal Ruler of Oz.
Although She appears as a girl of 14 to 15 years of age, I have it on good authority that She is several hundred years old. I guess it pays to be a fairy princess.
Although She appears as a girl of 14 to 15 years of age, I have it on good authority that She is several hundred years old. I guess it pays to be a fairy princess.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Applebee's Rude Treatment of a Fellow Magician
I've been a magician now for over 42 years now, having started as a charter member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians (I.B.M.) Ring 210: The Duke Stern Chapter out of Ann Arbor, Michigan back in 1970.
As a magician, we consider our fellow magicians as our brothers, hence the title of Brotherhood. As such, I am appalled when I find that a fellow magician has been treated very rudely after faithfully serving as a house magician for the Applebee's Restaurant in Marysville, Ohio. The magician in question is a colleague I met during Magi-Fest in Columbus, Ohio by the name of Jeff Leonard.
The following is a direct quote from him explaining what happened today.
"well I am home from a kick in the ole ego. I show up at Applebee's in Marysville, like every 4th Tuesday of the month, perform at my first table when the bartender informs me that they have cut back on their entertainment budget. No call prior, no "here have a meal for your time and trouble", not even a visit from the manager. I mean really??? I did kinda snicker to myself while packing to go and I heard several kids said, "hey that magic guys here." I guess the staff will have to answer a lot of questions."
Ours is one the oldest arts practiced by mankind, entertaining and mystifying people around the world for thousands of years. We are called upon to make the impossible happen on a daily basis... and make it look easy.
There are few magicians I know who are more dedicated to their craft than Jeff Leonard. To treat him in such a manner is unacceptable and I call upon the management of that Marysville, Ohio Applebee's to at least offer an apology for being so rude and inconsiderate. In these hard economic times, no one argues that cutbacks and such are neccessary, but at the very least, be polite about it and treat those of us who serve at your places and entertain your customers with some measure of dignity.
If you are reading this and find Applebee's attitude as reprehensible as I do, please take a moment to post this blog posting on your Facebook page, as well as tweeting it to Twitter. I know I will be doing just that on a daily basis until my fellow magician, Jeff Leonard is afforded some measure of resolution.
James C. Wallace II
As a magician, we consider our fellow magicians as our brothers, hence the title of Brotherhood. As such, I am appalled when I find that a fellow magician has been treated very rudely after faithfully serving as a house magician for the Applebee's Restaurant in Marysville, Ohio. The magician in question is a colleague I met during Magi-Fest in Columbus, Ohio by the name of Jeff Leonard.
The following is a direct quote from him explaining what happened today.
"well I am home from a kick in the ole ego. I show up at Applebee's in Marysville, like every 4th Tuesday of the month, perform at my first table when the bartender informs me that they have cut back on their entertainment budget. No call prior, no "here have a meal for your time and trouble", not even a visit from the manager. I mean really??? I did kinda snicker to myself while packing to go and I heard several kids said, "hey that magic guys here." I guess the staff will have to answer a lot of questions."
Ours is one the oldest arts practiced by mankind, entertaining and mystifying people around the world for thousands of years. We are called upon to make the impossible happen on a daily basis... and make it look easy.
There are few magicians I know who are more dedicated to their craft than Jeff Leonard. To treat him in such a manner is unacceptable and I call upon the management of that Marysville, Ohio Applebee's to at least offer an apology for being so rude and inconsiderate. In these hard economic times, no one argues that cutbacks and such are neccessary, but at the very least, be polite about it and treat those of us who serve at your places and entertain your customers with some measure of dignity.
If you are reading this and find Applebee's attitude as reprehensible as I do, please take a moment to post this blog posting on your Facebook page, as well as tweeting it to Twitter. I know I will be doing just that on a daily basis until my fellow magician, Jeff Leonard is afforded some measure of resolution.
James C. Wallace II
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
The Newest Wizard of Oz Auction Discovery!
Once again, I found myself at a local auction and coming across what I believe to be a Wizard of Oz relic, so to speak.
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As you can see, it is a small planter, about 5 inches tall and 5 inches wide. It features a Scarecrow leaning across a yellow stone wall. The glazing is gorgeous with beautiful 14K gold accents throughout the Scarecrow's hat, outfit and even the spacing between the stones of the wall.
From the back, the yellow stone wall theme continues on...
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A close examination of the bottom shows no makers marks, though I'm inclined to believe it may be a Hall, or perhaps a Royal Dalton.
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Either way, I believe this is a tribute piece to the Wizard of Oz, though not for the 1939 MGM Wizard of Oz movie, but more likely the original books of L. Frank Baum.
I do so love the auctions!!!
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
As you can see, it is a small planter, about 5 inches tall and 5 inches wide. It features a Scarecrow leaning across a yellow stone wall. The glazing is gorgeous with beautiful 14K gold accents throughout the Scarecrow's hat, outfit and even the spacing between the stones of the wall.
From the back, the yellow stone wall theme continues on...
A close examination of the bottom shows no makers marks, though I'm inclined to believe it may be a Hall, or perhaps a Royal Dalton.
Either way, I believe this is a tribute piece to the Wizard of Oz, though not for the 1939 MGM Wizard of Oz movie, but more likely the original books of L. Frank Baum.
I do so love the auctions!!!
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Are We In Oz Or The Deadly Desert?
So, the last 2 weeks have seen daily temperatures of 100+ degrees. I feel like I'm crossing one of the four deserts which surround and isolate the Land of Oz from the Great Outside.
I can totally understand why Princess Ozma transformed the sands into a deadly barrier. The heat alone would deter any fool from trying to cross into Oz.
In fact, there are actually four deserts which serve this purpose. They are: The Deadly Desert, The Shifting Sands, The Great Sandy Waste and The Impassable Desert.
At the moment, I feel like I'm crossing one of these heat-infested wastelands. I only hope Oz is not to far off, lest I be fried by the heat. At least now, I know how Jamie Diggs, his best friend Buddy and Capn' Bill felt when they crossed the Shifting Sands in Shadow Demon of Oz.
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
I can totally understand why Princess Ozma transformed the sands into a deadly barrier. The heat alone would deter any fool from trying to cross into Oz.
In fact, there are actually four deserts which serve this purpose. They are: The Deadly Desert, The Shifting Sands, The Great Sandy Waste and The Impassable Desert.
At the moment, I feel like I'm crossing one of these heat-infested wastelands. I only hope Oz is not to far off, lest I be fried by the heat. At least now, I know how Jamie Diggs, his best friend Buddy and Capn' Bill felt when they crossed the Shifting Sands in Shadow Demon of Oz.
James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Indiana University Pathfinders Program Failure
It had been my intention to post part 2 of my report on Oz-Stravaganza 2012, but once more, something has come up that requires my attention. Rather than go into details, I'll let my letter to Indiana University speak for itself.
To whom it may concern:
I am writing to you to express my extreme concern and disgust regarding the Pathfinders program and my granddaughter's involvement, or lack thereof, in said program.
My daughter, Melody Pargin, had enrolled her daughter, Gennifer Pargin in this summer's Pathfinder Camp Program as a 8th grader. She was really looking forward to this and I know her mother was very proud of her, as are her grandparents. As an alumni of ISU with a B.S. in Physics, I was thrilled to l;earn that Gennifer was interested in going to college. She is our oldest granddaughter and we had hoped she would be the first of our 13 grandchildren to enter higher education, paving the way for the rest to follow. Unfortunately, I don't think IU will play any role in that education if her recent experience is any indicator.
In the week prior to the June 10th starting date, Gennifer broke her ankle and was confined to crutches for the duration. Being a pre-existing condition, we assumed that IU would adhere to the regulations of the Americans With Disabilities Act and provide accomadations for her condition. Of course, assuming IU would do the proper thing was an error in judgement and one we won't make again.
Due to her injury, my daughter was compelled to transport Gennifer from Sullivan, Indiana to IU in order to insure that her daughter made it to the campus with as little impact as possible. She is, after all, a fine mother and cares deeply for her children. Unfortunately, we have discovered that IU does not share that same concern. When the officials at IU were made aware of the need for a wheelchair in order that Ginnifer might fully participate in the program, IU was unable to comply for over 24 hours., a fact that I find both insulting and quite ignorant on the part of those folks in charge of the Pathfinders Camp Program. Then, to add insult to injury (so to speak), my daughter was charged $30.00 for the use of said wheelchair depsite the fact that this was not due to an injury incurred while on campus (as outlined in the Medical Consent form) but was, in fact, a pre-exisitng conditon and falls within the guidelines of the AWD Act.
Now, Gennifer has withdrawn from the program and has learned a very hard lesson in the ways of the real wolrd and how money is the only driving factor in IU's educational vision. I'm just grateful that I'm not an alumni of IU or I would hang my head in shame at the deplorable behavior of IU.
Please be advised that I have included not only both local and regional news organizations in this communication, but I have also included the Office of Greg Zoeller, Indiana State Attorney General. I consider the actions of IU to be in direct violation of the AWD Act, as well as reflecting very poorly on IU in general. I can't imagine that IU condones violating my granddaughter's rights, but the evidence would indicate otherwise.
I will be posting this letter on my personal blog and posting that blog on Twitter (with over 2000 followers) as a means of informing the general public of how IU treats potential students, as well as their overall lack of commitment to furthering education and instead, placing their emphasis on the almighty dollar. I hope you enjoy my postings.
Should you wish to discuss this issue, I will remain available to discuss my concerns. I'll be curious to see if anyone responds, though I highly doubt it.
Respectfully:
James C. Wallace II
Further reports to follow as we see what happens...
To whom it may concern:
I am writing to you to express my extreme concern and disgust regarding the Pathfinders program and my granddaughter's involvement, or lack thereof, in said program.
My daughter, Melody Pargin, had enrolled her daughter, Gennifer Pargin in this summer's Pathfinder Camp Program as a 8th grader. She was really looking forward to this and I know her mother was very proud of her, as are her grandparents. As an alumni of ISU with a B.S. in Physics, I was thrilled to l;earn that Gennifer was interested in going to college. She is our oldest granddaughter and we had hoped she would be the first of our 13 grandchildren to enter higher education, paving the way for the rest to follow. Unfortunately, I don't think IU will play any role in that education if her recent experience is any indicator.
In the week prior to the June 10th starting date, Gennifer broke her ankle and was confined to crutches for the duration. Being a pre-existing condition, we assumed that IU would adhere to the regulations of the Americans With Disabilities Act and provide accomadations for her condition. Of course, assuming IU would do the proper thing was an error in judgement and one we won't make again.
Due to her injury, my daughter was compelled to transport Gennifer from Sullivan, Indiana to IU in order to insure that her daughter made it to the campus with as little impact as possible. She is, after all, a fine mother and cares deeply for her children. Unfortunately, we have discovered that IU does not share that same concern. When the officials at IU were made aware of the need for a wheelchair in order that Ginnifer might fully participate in the program, IU was unable to comply for over 24 hours., a fact that I find both insulting and quite ignorant on the part of those folks in charge of the Pathfinders Camp Program. Then, to add insult to injury (so to speak), my daughter was charged $30.00 for the use of said wheelchair depsite the fact that this was not due to an injury incurred while on campus (as outlined in the Medical Consent form) but was, in fact, a pre-exisitng conditon and falls within the guidelines of the AWD Act.
Now, Gennifer has withdrawn from the program and has learned a very hard lesson in the ways of the real wolrd and how money is the only driving factor in IU's educational vision. I'm just grateful that I'm not an alumni of IU or I would hang my head in shame at the deplorable behavior of IU.
Please be advised that I have included not only both local and regional news organizations in this communication, but I have also included the Office of Greg Zoeller, Indiana State Attorney General. I consider the actions of IU to be in direct violation of the AWD Act, as well as reflecting very poorly on IU in general. I can't imagine that IU condones violating my granddaughter's rights, but the evidence would indicate otherwise.
I will be posting this letter on my personal blog and posting that blog on Twitter (with over 2000 followers) as a means of informing the general public of how IU treats potential students, as well as their overall lack of commitment to furthering education and instead, placing their emphasis on the almighty dollar. I hope you enjoy my postings.
Should you wish to discuss this issue, I will remain available to discuss my concerns. I'll be curious to see if anyone responds, though I highly doubt it.
Respectfully:
James C. Wallace II
Further reports to follow as we see what happens...
Friday, June 8, 2012
Oz-Stravaganza2012! A Truly Ozian Adventure!! Part 1
A week ago today, I found myself in the auditorium of Chittenango High School, enjoying a most wonderful program devoted to all the Witches of Oz in the Land of Oz and now I find myself reflecting on an incredible weekend in the birthplace of L. Frank Baum and the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
Months before, I had found myself invited once more to attend Oz-Stravaganza2012 as a returning member of Author's Alley, which is part of a most incredible festival devoted to Oz in all it's incantations. This particular Oz fesrtival takes place in Chittenango, New York, birthplace of L. Frank Baum, which is located in the middle of New York State, just east of Syracuse.
By the end of May, my wife and I had made our plans and eased on down the road to Emerald City and the land of Oz.
By day's end, we had made it into Ohio for the night and the follwoing day, we aimed for Pennsylvania. This year, I was to premier my newest Oz book, The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu, which is a spin-off of Family of Oz. As usual, my wife and I treat this adventure as our vacation, and so the next day found us approaching my home state of West Virginia and one of a number of casinos that Amanda (my wife and the Creator of the Legendary Potato Soup) and I would visit.
On our way out, we saw not only a waterfall...
... but a tunnel as well. I was reminded of my new book, which features both a pair of waterfalls and a tunnel into Oz.
Soon, a local Pennsylvania winery called Laurel Mountain Winery grabbed outr attention and we found ourselves enjoying some of the local Niagra wines.
By Thursday, we had arrived in Oz, by way of Chittenango, New York and were happy to be there. On Friday afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll down to Sullivan Free Library of Chittenango, where we found my books on display. I happily donated a copy of The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu and was told that my books were being regularly checked out and read. What could make any author happier than hearing those words?
Friday evening was the first of several outstanding programs featuring various dignitaries from Oz. First off was a gathering of Oz authors including myself, promoting our work and meeting many fine people.
Here I am, still working on trying to look like I'm smiling, which I actually am. Next to me is Paul Miles Schneider, author of Silver Shoes and his new book, Powder of Life.
Here's our illustrator, Gwen Tennille, looking quite normal for her usual self. She did the most incredible illustrations for Of Cabbages, Kings, and Even (Odd) Queens of Wonderland and Oz, as well as Whether the Sea is Boiling Hot and Whether Pigs Have Wings, which I co-authored with Ron Baxley, Jr.
Ron Baxley, Jr., my co-author was also in attendance. He's the one on the left. That hat! Oh that hat!!!
Gregory Maguire, author of the Wicked series of books was also in attendance.
After several hours of meet and greet, the evenings entertainment began with several wonderful singing performances, including Gregory Maguire, who also spoke about writing Wicked. There was also an appearance by Margarette Pelligrinni (left), an original Munchkin from the MGM 1939 Wizard of Oz movie, as well as Myrna Swensen (middle), Munchkin by marriage and Caren Marsh-Doll (right), stand-in for Judy Garland from the Wizard of Oz movie.
It's always a pleasure to see them onstage and away from the limelight. I have found all three to be wonderful ambassadors of Oz. Margarette Pelligrinni (left) did something I've never seen before. She left John Fricke, (our host for the evening and a really nice guy), speechless when she commented on her pay rate for the movie ($50.00 per week) and Toto's higher paycheck ($125.00 per week). "Where's Toto now?" she asked John. After a quizical look from our host, she replied; "He's pushing up daisies and I'm still here!!!". It brought the house down and John Fricke was speechless. What a hoot.
Tomorrow, we take a look at Oz-Stravaganza 2012 in all its glory!
Months before, I had found myself invited once more to attend Oz-Stravaganza2012 as a returning member of Author's Alley, which is part of a most incredible festival devoted to Oz in all it's incantations. This particular Oz fesrtival takes place in Chittenango, New York, birthplace of L. Frank Baum, which is located in the middle of New York State, just east of Syracuse.
By the end of May, my wife and I had made our plans and eased on down the road to Emerald City and the land of Oz.
By day's end, we had made it into Ohio for the night and the follwoing day, we aimed for Pennsylvania. This year, I was to premier my newest Oz book, The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu, which is a spin-off of Family of Oz. As usual, my wife and I treat this adventure as our vacation, and so the next day found us approaching my home state of West Virginia and one of a number of casinos that Amanda (my wife and the Creator of the Legendary Potato Soup) and I would visit.
On our way out, we saw not only a waterfall...
... but a tunnel as well. I was reminded of my new book, which features both a pair of waterfalls and a tunnel into Oz.
Soon, a local Pennsylvania winery called Laurel Mountain Winery grabbed outr attention and we found ourselves enjoying some of the local Niagra wines.
By Thursday, we had arrived in Oz, by way of Chittenango, New York and were happy to be there. On Friday afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll down to Sullivan Free Library of Chittenango, where we found my books on display. I happily donated a copy of The Ozian Adventure of Pickleless & Blu and was told that my books were being regularly checked out and read. What could make any author happier than hearing those words?
Friday evening was the first of several outstanding programs featuring various dignitaries from Oz. First off was a gathering of Oz authors including myself, promoting our work and meeting many fine people.
Here I am, still working on trying to look like I'm smiling, which I actually am. Next to me is Paul Miles Schneider, author of Silver Shoes and his new book, Powder of Life.
Here's our illustrator, Gwen Tennille, looking quite normal for her usual self. She did the most incredible illustrations for Of Cabbages, Kings, and Even (Odd) Queens of Wonderland and Oz, as well as Whether the Sea is Boiling Hot and Whether Pigs Have Wings, which I co-authored with Ron Baxley, Jr.
Ron Baxley, Jr., my co-author was also in attendance. He's the one on the left. That hat! Oh that hat!!!
Gregory Maguire, author of the Wicked series of books was also in attendance.
As well as Robert Baum, Great Grandson of L. Frank Baum and his wife, Claire. They seem quite happy to be there! So was I!!
After several hours of meet and greet, the evenings entertainment began with several wonderful singing performances, including Gregory Maguire, who also spoke about writing Wicked. There was also an appearance by Margarette Pelligrinni (left), an original Munchkin from the MGM 1939 Wizard of Oz movie, as well as Myrna Swensen (middle), Munchkin by marriage and Caren Marsh-Doll (right), stand-in for Judy Garland from the Wizard of Oz movie.
Photo courtesy of Paul Miles Schneider
It's always a pleasure to see them onstage and away from the limelight. I have found all three to be wonderful ambassadors of Oz. Margarette Pelligrinni (left) did something I've never seen before. She left John Fricke, (our host for the evening and a really nice guy), speechless when she commented on her pay rate for the movie ($50.00 per week) and Toto's higher paycheck ($125.00 per week). "Where's Toto now?" she asked John. After a quizical look from our host, she replied; "He's pushing up daisies and I'm still here!!!". It brought the house down and John Fricke was speechless. What a hoot.
Tomorrow, we take a look at Oz-Stravaganza 2012 in all its glory!
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