Archive for the ‘Ventriloquism/Ventriloquist’ Category
July 16, 2008
Walking into the photography studio, I paused as I opened the door. “This is our first studio portrait,” I silently said to myself.
Wearing a midnight blue three piece pantsuit for the first time reminded me of the Cinderella story. “Is this my imagination or is this real?” I felt like a princess on the inside as well as the outside. “Today is the first time I have worn this outfit, even though I bought it over two years ago,” my thoughts blurred.
“My adopted son, a ventriloquial figure named Sonny, is wearing a new three piece suit I bought for him last year before I ever held him in my arms,” my thoughts continued. Yet, today we are here together as a team.
I sat on the chair and held Sonny in my arms. He is 45 years old and I’m a few years his senior… That’s my story and I’m sticking with it. In the studio, Lyndon Lloyd, our photographer adjusted the lights and camera quickly.
“Lean closer to the dummy,” he said as he changed the camera setting. I asked in a mischievous voice, “Which one?” I wondered how many dummies Lyndon had photographed in his studio so I asked him without any hesitation. He smiled and said, “Well…” I knew he caught my train of thought so I clarified my question. “How many wooden dummies have you photographed in your studio?” He paused and I knew his answer. This event was one for the record books at Lloyd’s Photography.
He said, “You will be able to view the photos tomorrow on the internet.” However, much to my amazement, I received a call about 6:00 p.m. that same afternoon announcing the photos had already been uploaded for my review.
Excitedly I began following Lyndon’s instructions to view the photos. I watched the entire slideshow of forty-eight photos. For the first time as an adult, I felt the magic of a childhood dream come to fruition. I admit it was awkward at first but I know I walked out of the studio door a different person than when I first walked in.
We laughed and talked during the photo session. Renewed with encouragement and filled with hope, I understand the importance of listening to the still small voice in my heart.
“Rudy” knows the power of pursuing your dreams. I met Daniel Reuttiger, “Rudy,” in person at High Point University on April 22nd this year. He shared from his heart and told about the numerous challenges he battled as he refused to let his dream die, his dream as a young boy who wanted to play football at Notre Dame, even though others laughed at his ambitions. When the power of a dream is fueled with passion, miracles happen.
Henry van Dyke said, “Be glad of life because it gives you the chance to love and to work and to play and to look at the stars.” Yes, I am indeed thankful to walk through this door into my childhood dream, one of the many blessings given to me in life.
The photography website is http://www.lloydsphotographyofnc.com
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.
January 10, 2008
Effortlessly, Al Moessinger led a break-out class at the Ventriloquist ConVENTion in Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky. Amazed and inspired by the cohesiveness I felt in the group, I knew this gentleman definitely was a master of his craft.
A few months ago, Al granted me the privilege of an exclusive interview. I believe you, too, will be inspired to use your unlimited potential you may have forgotten.
Al said four essential points drive every event:
1. You must believe in yourself, and relax!
2. Always prepare before each presentation.
3. Adapt your characters to each routine.
4. And remember that the ability to get along easily with people is a must.
With over twenty-five years experience in the entertainment field, Al spoke easily and confidently. He emphasized the fact that the audience is the real hero.
Al has a Ph.D. Life Degree, also known as a Puppet Handling Degree. He noted each performer must ask, “In my own life, what can I do well?” With a clear and definite answer in mind, Al recommended, “Look at what others in your field of work are doing and develop your own unique performance.”
He refers to a syndrome he continually experiences. “I’ve got VMS, a syndrome oftentimes called Voice Modulation Syndrome. But this is a condition that is great to have as an entertainer.
Getting people to laugh is a gift. Laughter is healing. Entertaining is therapy and everyone benefits from laughter. Al remarked, “As you grow, you learn. And, depending on how well you are marketed, you can easily work in a crowded niche.”
Al referred to an equation he believes others would be wise to remember as they prepare for their life’s work. He said, “You get paid in life for what you do, times your ability for what you can do, divided by the number of other people who can do the same job.”
Continuing, he said, “You must set yourself apart.” Al noted that entertaining and ventriloquism had kept him same. “It’s the best work you can have when you are paid for being funny while you vent (excuse the pun) out your frustrations.”
Al emphasized the powerful and successful combination of these components in entertainment. “It’s like gravy on the potatoes.”
Please visit http://www.AlloShow.com for information on how to contact Al for your next event!
Angela Scott
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.
October 1, 2007
1. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must do?
Speak clearly and be heard. Sound is important for both the ventriloquist and the figure.
2. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must avoid?
Lip movement while venting.
I recommend:
1). Practice, practice, practice! Practice especially the words with B, M, P sounds. Have someone to video tape your performance. If you see your lips moving, so will everyone else.
2.) Keep a natural look on your face while venting. Experiment with different expressions on your face (remember avoid lip movement) reacting to what your figure is saying to you, for example shock, pity, disgust, etc.
3. Is Ventriloquism something that is here to stay?
Yes! I think so. I will do my part to keep it alive.
4. Can someone work successfully as a Ventriloquist if they are in a crowded niche?
Yes! Be who you are, be original, and be creative. There is nobody like you.
5. What has Ventriloquism done for you?
When I hear about someone venting, I think about someone speaking their mind, voicing their opinions, or sharing their feeling to other people. That is what ventriloquism has done for me. Through ventriloquism, I get to share my laughs, my faith, my humor, my singing ability and my creativity with other people.
Ventriloquism has taken me overseas to help entertain our military troops; it feels good to be able to entertain our troops, to see them laugh and smile because they give so much everyday. Venting has helped me make numerous friends around the world. It has also made my closest friend closer, my wife (Roenia). She is my secretary, piano player, music coordinator, my traveling partner and my best friend.
6. What trends to you currently see in Ventriloquism?
Ventriloquists are “HOT!” You see them in movies (okay, the movies do not stay long at the theaters… so what!), commercials, talent shows, sitcoms, etc. I think you are going to see many singing ventriloquists and their figures. Maybe, in the future you will see Ryan Seacrest hosting “American Idol Lips,” for ventriloquists only.
7. When did you first become interested in Ventriloquism?
When I was in the 5th grade, my best friend said he was getting a dummy for Christmas. I had never thought about dummies or ventriloquists until that moment. All I knew, if my best friend, Jimmy, was getting a dummy I wanted one, too. I received a Danny-O-Day figure with a Jimmy Nelson instant ventriloquist LP album.
December 25, 1969 was the beginning of a great adventure. Funny how things work out; my best friend did not receive a dummy for Christmas but I am thankful he wanted one!
http://www.davidturnerandfriends.com
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.
September 22, 2007
Introduced to Susan Johnson only over the telephone, I immediately knew we share a similar love for Ventriloquism. My hope is to introduce you to Susan and her gift she shares with others, the gift of Ventriloquism.
1. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must do?
Every ventriloquist must practice. It is better if you can keep a regular rehearsal schedule. Maybe on one day you work with one character, and the next day a different one. Practice is key to success.
2. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must avoid?
Stealing material.
I recommend developing your own style. It is okay to get ideas from other ventriloquists. Also, use material that is appropriate for you. This depends on the type of venue you are working in, i.e. schools.
3. Is this Ventriloquist stuff something that is here to stay?
Ventriloquism is here to stay. It has been around for thousands of years. It dates back to Biblical times.
4. Can someone work successfully as a Ventriloquist if they are in a crowded niche?
Ventriloquists are so spread out world wide that a ventriloquist can find his or her niche; they just have to go out and get it.
5. What has Ventriloquism done for you?
It has opened up doors for going into churches and I have become more creative and passionate about what I want to do.
6. What trends do you currently see in Ventriloquism?
Since I do most of my work in the church, Ventriloquism is a growing ministry for many because it is different and a great way to share God’s love and His message.
7. When did you first become interested in Ventriloquism?
It was about twelve years ago when missionaries were home on sabbatical from the Philippines and they worked with kids like I do.
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.
September 10, 2007
Walking briskly through the attendees at the ventriloquist convention, phillip and his camera captured numerous once in a lifetime moments of adults and kids performing with their “dummies.” Never meeting a stranger, he greeted attendees at convention 2007 with enthusiasm. It’s easy to understand Phillip’s expertise with the camera; he’s a professional wildlife photographer for a South Carolina magazine.
Curious about his participation in ConVENTion 2007, I thought it would be interesting to learn more about this photographer and his connection with ventriloquism. As we spoke on the telephone one evening, he told me about his own “dummy” named “Hog-Eye Jones,” an army guy named after his dad because of a unique ability Phillip’s father possessed to see hogs where no one else could. As he recounted the details of the story, I knew this story completed another important connection in the world of understanding ventriloquism, ventriloquists, and their “dummies.”
1. What is one thing every Photographer and Ventriloquist must do? First you must practice. Next, you must practice. Finally, you must practice, again, and again.
2. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must avoid? Not practicing.
I recommend the following rules which have helped me:
(1) Avoid memorizing; and
(2) avoid getting lazy.
3. Is this Ventriloquism stuff something that is here to stay? Yes always.
4. Can someone work successfully as a Ventriloquist successfully if they are in a crowded niche? Yes, be different and keep current with the times.
5. What has Ventriloquism done for you? It has allowed me to make people laugh everywhere.
6. What trends to you currently see in Ventriloquism? Three trends I have observed are: styles in clothes, hair, and different performance backgrounds.
7. What was your first job(s)? Vent Haven contest; National Guard Christmas party, and an Eastern Star Banquet.
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.
September 8, 2007
1. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must do?
The most important thing a ventriloquist must do is PRACTICE every day! The best way for me to practice is in front of a mirror. Work on manipulation, lip control, memorizing your script, and especially just get comfortable with your puppet! Practice while sitting in front of the TV, a great way to learn how to ad lib. For lip control, I practice in the car without moving my lips! I sometimes sing along with the songs without moving my lips.
2. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must avoid?
Each ventriloquist is different. Individuals who want to become ventriloquists must avoid copying the ones they see.
I recommend: (1) Find out what is right for you. Search for information and talk to people asking specific questions. What are YOU comfortable with? What type of figure do you want to use – a hard figure or a soft puppet? There are advantages to both!
(2) Once you decide, get going! Never let anyone discourage you! Start practicing. You can even practice with your hand! Think about your character. It’s a big decision! Write a bio for your puppet. Ask it questions and get to know it!
3. Is this Ventriloquist stuff something that is here to stay?
Absolutely! Ventriloquism has been around for a long time and will be here for a long time. I go to the ConVENTion in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, and there are over 400 people attending every year, an amazing number of people interested in ventriloquism to attend a convention in the middle of summer! Many young people attend these conventions as well.
Sales of Jeff Dunham’s video last year exceeded expectations. More people watched a ventriloquist in their home than possibly ever before. Dunham appeared on Comedy Central in his own special. No TV station is going to give a ventriloquist a special show unless they believe it will be watched repeatedly.
Dunham’s second DVD will be released soon and Comedy Central will be airing his second special in September 2007. Terry Fator, the winner of the television show, “America’s Got Talent,” is a ventriloquist which is quite impressive because there were thousands of different types of acts. Many families enjoyed great ventriloquism in their homes!
4. Can someone work successfully as a Ventriloquist if they are in a crowded niche?
YES! You need to find what’s right for you. Remember not to copy anyone else. Practice consistently and master your craft.
Have your own characters and your show ready to go! It is easier said than done but it can be done. Many professional ventriloquists work full time in their craft. They worked long hours to achieve success.
5. What has Ventriloquism done for you?
Ventriloquism has allowed me to take what I do professionally and combine ventriloquism with it. I work with children with cancer. I am able to take my puppets into hospitals and outpatient clinics to work directly with these children. Some of the children do not want to talk but many times they will talk to a puppet I bring in. The parents love it as well since they know how much the children love the puppet play.
Certain puppets and I have been able to stay with the children during painful treatments which comforts them. I also carry other puppets the kids get to use. Oftentimes the siblings join the fun as they also have many fears. The puppets occasionally have spent the night in the hospital. For example, I remember a 13-year old girl who had endured an extremely difficult surgery. She was angry and would not talk with anyone. I brought in a six foot dodo bird. She talked to the bird and asked if it could stay with her over night. I happily granted her request. Her mom said her daughter talked through the bird puppet and her talk was happy. In the morning the girl was ready to be herself again.
I also have bald ventriloquist figures and wigs to cover their bald heads if needed. Many of the kids love seeing puppets can be just like them!
6. What trends to you currently see in Ventriloquism?
I see ventriloquism being used in many different areas! I see it in comedy as well as in churches, birthday shows, magic shows, singing, and hospitals.
7. When did you first become interested in Ventriloquism?
I loved puppets when I was a child! When I was earning my Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and Child Life (working with hospitalized children), I performed a complete program for a nursery school, teaching them about doctors and hospitals. This is when I used my first plastic ventriloquist figure who had a broken arm and a cast I put on the figure. We talked about what it was like going to the hospital. The kids loved it as did the other teachers and parents. It was great.
My first real job was putting together a program for school because it was the time of year for kids to return to school; that concept needed to be explained to the class. I developed a program with a couple of puppets and performed with a buddy which the class, teachers, and parents loved. I now perform an abbreviated program for smaller groups with one girl figure talking about cancer and how it affects life.
It’s great being able to do what I do!
Nancy’s website
www.myspace.com/nancyra
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.
August 22, 2007
1. What is one thing everyone must do for good health? Life is short; the art is long. Do what you can do to find your passion. You will enjoy life if you are who you want to be. In my case, I found my passion as a Barbershop Quartet Singer, a Nurse, and as a Ventriloquist.
2. What is one thing everyone must avoid in order to enjoy good health? Being unhappy or unfulfilled in what you are doing. Life is too short. You may not get another chance.
Instead of blaming a situation because it is NOT right for you, make your best attempt to see what YOU can do to make it right for you. Identify what it is you dislike and be creative to change, or minimize it so you can tolerate and build-in things you do like. You may be pleasantly surprised how others like your style, seek you out to be part of your world, and become your new friend, or colleague.
Never lose sight of learning to improve what you are doing. If we become complacent, we lose the drive to improve, branch out. We must practice, learn and continually grow to be healthy, in good harmony, and talk without making our lips move. Know what you are saying to your audience and to yourself.
3. Is this triple play for good health combination something that is here to stay? Yes. But “I” will only be staying with it as long as I enjoy it, am successful at it and making the changes I need to make to make it what I need it to be (as I change).
4. Can someone sing in a Barbershop Quartet, work in the field of Nursing, and work as a Ventriloquist successfully if they are in a crowded niche? Yes. First you must accept and believe in your work and yourself. If what began as a hobby or job has become a calling – a ministry, you have made it. This is a rewarding challenge and begins with self-growth. Your customers will tell you that you have touched their lives.
5. What has this triple play for good health combination done for you? I have learned about myself and about what things are important to me, as well as share what I have learned with others. The most important thing that gratifies me is seeing how I am making a difference in other people’s lives doing what I do – spreading HEALTH & HUMOR through HARMONY as a Nurse, a Barbershop Quartet Singer, a Ventriloquist, and all the other things I am (husband, father, grandfather, etc.).
6. What trends to you currently see in this triple play for good health combination? The standard continually rises upward, for example, the level of sophistication of Barbershop Quartet Singing, Nursing, and Ventriloquism is so much more than it used to be when I first began.
No one can ever master all aspects of an “ART.” That means the potential for learning, if you are open to it, is literally bottomless. Find the excitement in that. Make it work for YOU. You are not measured by how good you are in comparison to someone else, but by the effort you put forth to better yourself. You can strive to improve on where you are at any given moment. Regardless of where we are in our development, I hope we look first to help our self so we can help others. Never be afraid to get the help you need.
I feel my 60 year journey has been built on my learning and sharing a healthy message with others – from me, a Nurse, a Barbershop Quartet Singer and a Ventriloquist, as well as my many other roles – are all a part of ME. I have been thanked by many for what I have left them (my needed reinforcement). To find good in what we do and to share it with others is the core of a life. If this trend does not perpetuate itself in mankind, other generations will not be healthy and will not survive.
7. When did you first become interested in this triple play for good health combination? When I saw the power each had in the ability to do good for myself and for others. I will probably never win a gold medal in any of the above activities. It’s not the winning and wearing a gold medal, it’s the “gold medal moments” you have. I have experienced many of those moments when I reach out to others and give what I can.
Check out Larry’s website:
http://thenursingnotes.com
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.
August 2, 2007
This is an interview with Steve Hurst, a ventriloquist and the webmaster for Ventriloquist Central (www.ventriloquistcentral.com).
1. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must do? Make sure you practice. Make sure you are good at your craft before you perform for money (if you do). Do as many shows as you can for free if necessary to “practice” and hone your ventriloquist skills before performing for money. Magicians and ventriloquists are a rare breed….if you see a bad magician or ventriloquist, for some reason it reflects badly on all.
2. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must avoid? Avoid discouragement. Some people will think you are strange and make fun of you, while others will be intrigued and yet they still try to “bring you down.” Never let this happen.
I recommend: 1) Practice, Practice, Practice…so that you know you are good; and 2) Never give up, no matter what anyone says. Believe in yourself. Seek out those who DO believe in you too.
3. Is this Ventriloquist stuff something that is here to stay? Absolutely!!!! I come from a different mindset. In the past few years, you hear too many ventriloquists (and non-ventriloquists) talk about ventriloquism being dead. Poppycock! It’s not dead….in fact even before this last year (with David Letterman’s Ventriloquism week and the popularity of Jeff Dunham), there are many ventriloquists out there.
The problem is that ventriloquism is not in “mainstream” media (TV, radio, newspaper). But it’s always been around and always growing. Probably the biggest boost in ventriloquism has been in the gospel and ministry area. Just because you do not see it every day on television (like you did in the 50’s & 60’s) does not mean it is not out there.
In fact, the Internet has helped in proving that ventriloquism is everywhere. I remember the early days of the Internet, in 1995, when you typed in “ventriloquist” into a search engine. The results of that search: the phrase “ventriloquist not found…are you sure you spelled it correctly?” Now type ventriloquist into Google and you get almost 1.5 MILLION searches. Does THAT sound like something that is dying? I do not think so.
4. Can someone work successfully as a Ventriloquist if they are in a crowded niche? Of course (and this really does not just apply to Ventriloquists…but to anyone in any business). It just takes the right kind of marketing… (I have over 25 years in sales and marketing, so this is a subject near and dear to me).
However, I do see many ventriloquists going about marketing themselves all wrong. First, they are “copying” other ventriloquists and doing the “same ole thing.” The easiest marketing advice I could give to anyone is….look at what everyone else is doing….then do NOT do it. You’ll have more success if you “stand out.”
5. What has Ventriloquism done for you? In recent years….it has allowed me to meet many wonderful people who are involved in ventriloquism. At this point in my life, it’s also allowing me to be involved with something I immensely enjoy doing.
6. What trends to you currently see in Ventriloquism? If current day ventriloquists “embrace” today’s technology….I can see ventriloquism growing more than anyone can imagine. With the Internet and the capabilities of video and audio ON the Internet, the opportunities and ways a person can promote themselves are endless (of course, this comes from me being a webmaster and marketer).
7. What was your first job? WOW…that’s a toughie. I started ventriloquism at the age of 14…did lots of “free” stuff during Junior High and High school. But, then I got married…life happens and was out of ventriloquism for years. I think I was about 35 when I got back into it…on a part-time basis. I refer to myself as an “on again, off again” ventriloquist (basically a part-timer).
The first time I recall performing was in one of my classes in Junior High…one of the students in the class worked for the school newspaper, so she took a picture of my dummy and me and wrote a little article. Wish I still had the article (although, now that I think about it…my Mom may still have it….I’ll have to ask her).
First paying job….would have probably been in 1995, when I was doing quite a few birthday parties. I just don’t recall which exact one was the first.
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.
July 31, 2007
1. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must do?
“A man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.” Proverbs 18:16. Practice! In the room where you spend the most time, place your puppet on a stand as well as a mirror. Pretend you’re talking to a friend every time you pass by your puppet. Move your puppet in silly ways. New ideas develop every day as you grow to know your puppet. Their personality emerges. Even if you don’t have talent and want to be a good ventriloquist, just pick up a puppet and play with it OFTEN. Practice your lip control when you are in the car.
This is my new thing I do – Sing and talk as you walk down the street without moving your lips and ACT NORMAL. This is great practice to act normal as well as a great use of your time. Sometimes get rid of the mirror. Instead, practice in front of a video camera. Acting normal will be impossible if you always use a mirror; you become co-dependent on it.
2. What is one thing every Ventriloquist must avoid?
Avoid staying in your comfort zone. Think outside the box. Instead of doing what everyone else does, take a common thing and go one step farther. Just DO IT.
I recommend:
1) Step out of your comfort zone by using new material often. Perform for free; perform for neighbors and nursing homes; and take your puppet with you when you go shopping. Although, don’t expect to get any shopping done. I take my puppet with me to local stores. This forces me to be in new situations, teaches me how to move my puppet, as well as what to say in new ways. This has greatly improved my puppet manipulation.
2) Avoid the lecture look and sound. Watch people; move your puppet the same way people move. Move your body like you would if your puppet was a person. Dan Horn is excellent on this technique. He has his tongue sticking out the side of his mouth, brushes his hair off his face, gets a drink, and offers it to his puppet. BE NATURAL. Get comfortable. If you enjoy it, the audience will too.
3. Is this Ventriloquist stuff something that is here to stay?
I think so. It’s like watching a cartoon come alive before your eyes. That never gets old.
4. Can a Ventriloquist be successful if they are in a crowded niche?
Yes! Just be yourself, find your unique style of dress, puppet and presentation. PRACTICE!
5. What has Ventriloquism done for you?
It has opened the door for me to share everywhere God is a good God and a loving Father. I can share this creatively and not in the conventional way of other ventriloquists. I want people to hear the message and not even be aware they heard it because they are engaged in the show. I’d rather demonstrate than preach.
I am a professional clown/ventriloquist and adding the ventriloquist part has opened the door to “clown” for adults. I never perform ventriloquism without being dressed as a clown. I am Ribbons the Clown/ventriloquist which is my unique way of using ventriloquism.
6. What trends to you currently see in Ventriloquism?
I see too many hard figures. Personally I think they are limiting. They have eyes, ears, nose, and hair that wiggle. How often can you use that in one show? Soft puppets move, bend and twist to portray different reactions which can be funny or realistic.
7. What was your first job?
I have been clowning for 15 years and have always used some type of Niki monkey. About four months ago I bought my first professional puppet, an Axtell orangutan. It was love at first sight. She looked so good I decided to get serious about ventriloquism, so I signed up for ConVENTion 2007 and decided to perform on stage for my first major show. I used her for performances at three other nursing homes and at my home church. I did okay but felt I did not practice enough because the audience consisted of seasoned ventriloquists and I forgot part of my show. So, PRACTICE!
I am my worst critic. The worst thing for me is the battle in my head, knowing I am much better than what I just performed.
Robin Bremer’s web address is:
www.ribbonstheclown.com
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All writings here are copyrighted by Angela Scott. You may not use them without written permission but you may link to the posts or give out a link to the posts.