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Severin Vincent Tennyson is a janitor at Gunderson High School in central New Jersey, U.S.A. Nicknamed Tenny, voices and smells trigger feelings from his past.

He is about to have a memory he hasn't felt in a long time.

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A little girl is orphaned and her nearest relatives take her in. But that disrupts the plans of her cousin who is only a few days away from starting university.

The LET ME GO TO HER series is interpreted from Elizabeth Gaskell's THE OLD NURSE'S STORY.published in 1852.

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In Episode 2, Furnivall Manor, the orphaned girl Rosie is driven to the estate of soon-to-be-adopted family, Furnivals, by her cousin the would-be college student. But their reception at Furnivall Manor is unsettling.

LET ME GO TO HER is interpreted from Elizabeth Gaskell's "The Old Nurse's Story" published in 1852. Gaskell (1810-1865) was born in Chelsea, England and authored novels and short stories. More information on her life and works may be found through The Gaskell Society at https://lnkd.in/eqjEfW8z.

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In Episode 3, Discoveries, the student navigated a downpour to get Rosie to her new family. But the crumbling Furnivall Manor in upstate New Jersey is no one's idea of "Home Sweet Home." Further, when they entered the mansion, they were assaulted by organ music. But, no one was playing.

LET ME GO TO HER is interpreted from Elizabeth Gaskell's "The Old Nurse's Story" published in 1852. Gaskell (1810-1865) was born in Chelsea, England and authored novels and short stories. More information on her life and works may be found through The Gaskell Society at https://lnkd.in/eqjEfW8z.

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In Episode 4, Rosie is Missing, why was James, one half of the couple who ran Furnivall Manor, so secretive about unveiling the painting? And, why was Dorothy, the other half of the couple, equally adamant about keeping it under wraps?

LET ME GO TO HER is interpreted from Elizabeth Gaskell's "The Old Nurse's Story" published in 1852. Gaskell (1810-1865) was born in Chelsea, England and authored novels and short stories. More information on her life and works may be found through The Gaskell Society at https://lnkd.in/eqjEfW8z.

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Rosie is missing in the midst of a rainstorm with thunder that is shaking the mansion and lightning that is illuminating the grounds.

LET ME GO TO HER is interpreted from Elizabeth Gaskell's "The Old Nurse's Story" published in 1852. Gaskell (1810-1865) was born in Chelsea, England and authored novels and short stories. More information on her life and works may be found through The Gaskell Society at https://lnkd.in/eqjEfW8z.

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A FORCE OF POETS, Episode 01 - Helen Hunt Jackson

In this episode, we recall love and marriage in the month of May, the harvests of June, and the grogginess of early morning.

It's the start of four weeks of poets here on The 3:57 by William E. Spear.

Brief biography on Helen Hunt Jackson:

Jackson was born in Amherst, Massachusetts in 1830. She published five collections of poetry, including VERSES in 1870 and EASTER BELLS in 1884, as well as children’s literature and travel books. Her works were also released under the pseudonyms “H.H.,” “Rip van Winkle,” or “Saxe Holm.”

In 1881, two years after hearing a speech by Chief Standing Bear, Jackson wrote A CENTURY OF DISHONOR, an exposé of crimes against Native Americans, which led to the founding of the Indian Rights Association.

Our episode focuses on three poems. The first is MAY, the second is JUNE, and the last is MORN as in the early part of the day.

From A FORCE OF POETS . . . Helen Hunt Jackson.

WESJr.

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A FORCE OF POETS, Episode 02 - Emily Dickinson

The next poet wrote about the bigness of the brain, the mystery of dawn, and the power of a smile.

Find out who and the lines here on The 3:57 by William E. Spear.

(Theme for A Force of Poets comes up)

Hello my name is William Spear and this is our series titled A FORCE OF POETS.

Our second poet is Emily Dickinson.

Brief biography on Emily Dickinson:

She was born in December of 1830, in Amherst, Massachusetts U.S.A. and died in 1886. Her work was first published in 1890 and readers have experienced a collection of writing which includes lines such as the following:

• “The brain is wider than the sky.”
• And, “Not knowing when the dawn will come I open every door.”
• And, “They might not need me; but they might. // I’ll let my head be just in sight; // A smile as small as mine might be // Precisely their necessity.”

Our episode focuses on these two: SUMMER'S ARMIES and THE PURPLE CLOVER.

From A FORCE OF POETS . . . Emily Dickinson.

WESJr.

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A FORCE OF POETS, Episode 03 - Christina G. Rossetti

The next poet wonders WHAT'S IN A NAME? and hints at telling her secret.

Hear both stories on The 3:57 by William E. Spear.

(Theme for A Force of Poets comes up)

Hello my name is William Spear and this is our series titled A FORCE OF POETS.

Our third poet is Christina G. Rossetti.

She was born in December of 1830 in London and died in 1894. Her writing includes the following:

- GOBLIN MARKET about hideous creatures selling fruits such as "grapes fresh from the vine, and pomegranates full and fine."

- IN THE BLEAK MIDWINTER which is her telling of the nativity story.

- And, REMEMBER when she tells her lover to "Remember me when I am gone away // Gone far away into the silent land // When you can no more hold me by the hand."

This episode focuses on two other poems: WHAT'S IN A NAME? and WINTER: MY SECRET.

From A FORCE OF POETS . . . this is Christina G. Rossetti.

WESJr

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A FORCE OF POETS, Episode 04 - Phillis Wheatley

The next poet offers praise to start and end the day and an ode for a safe crossing of the Atlantic Ocean.

Hear those and more on . . . The 3:57 by William E. Spear.

(Theme for A Force of Poets comes up)

Hello my name is William Spear and this is our series titled A FORCE OF POETS.

Our fourth poet is Phillis Wheatley.

She was born in Gambia, Africa in 1753 and captured by slave traders in 1761. Her first name was changed to that of the ship that brought her to America where she was sold to the Wheatley family of Boston, Massachusetts.

In 1784, she died of complications from childbirth.

But during her life she became the first African American and second woman after Anne Bradstreet to publish a book of poems.

Wheatley's book, POEMS ON VARIOUS SUBJECTS, RELIGIOUS AND MORAL, published in 1773, included the following:

- A FUNERAL POEM ON THE DEATH OF C. E. AN INFANT OF TWELVE MONTHS

- TO HIS HONOUR THE LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR, ON THE DEATH OF HIS LADY. MARCH 24, 1773

- TO S. M. A YOUNG AFRICAN PAINTER, ON SEEING HIS WORKS

This episode focuses on AN HYMN TO THE MORNING, AN HYMN TO THE EVENING, and ODE TO NEPTUNE.

From A FORCE OF POETS . . . this is Phillis Wheatley.

WESJr

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 00 - Trailer

(Theme for It Suits Her comes up)

Hello. My name is William Spear and this is The 3:57 by William E. Spear.

Our new series, IT SUITS HER, premieres on August 1 and tells the stories of Maxie Williams and Celia Court.

Maxie was a brillian comic actor twenty years ago and is now a recovering alcoholic working in a department store.

Celia ran away from her parents five years ago and is working in a tailoring shop to get through college.

Both are desperate for brighter futures. But when their lives collide, will either land in a better place.

Tune into IT SUITS HER on August 1 on most streaming platforms. Or, visit the program's website, TwoPlusPlus.com, for more details and updates.

Either way, thanks for listening to The 3:57 by William E. Spear.

(Theme for It Suits Her comes up and goes out)

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 01

Scheduled release: 1 August 2023

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello this is The 3:57 by William E. Spear and I am the aforementioned William Spear.

Our new series is titled IT SUITS HER. This episode will be told by one of the two lead characters, Argosy Williams . . . nicknamed Maxie. He is going to introduce himself in a moment. Expect his voice to sound like mine.

The other major character is Celia Court. She has a nickname, too, she'll share that pretty soon. Somewhat coincidentally she will sound like me, too.

They will meet - and, really, collide is a better word - in a tailoring shop.

Until then, this is Episode One of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 02

Scheduled release: 8 August 2023

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello and shhhh. It's me Celia and there are a few changes in this episode.

It is still The 3:57 by William E. Spear and this is still our series titled IT SUITS HER. But, surprise, surprise. I am your host - the "her" in IT SUITS HER - Celia Court.

I gave Spear the night off. He needed the rest.

Besides, the story's about me. I work in the tailoring shop. I trade jabs over the phone with my boyfriend and I spar with my boss, Mr. Clarkson.

The story's about me. But don't worry, Maxie Williams is still coming for his suit.

And - fair warning - he is is easily the most obstinate . . . the most infuriating . . . the most annoying person I have ever met.

A lot like my father. Which is not a flattering comparison.

For now, let me duel with Mr. Clarkson.

And this is Episode Two of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 03

Scheduled release: 15 August 2023

Excerpt of Intro:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello and welcome to The 3:57 by William E. Spear. I am the host, William Spear and this is our series IT SUITS HER.

Please accept apologies for not being here last week. I had an allergic reaction to my milkshake and had a terrible headache for three days.

In my absence, Celia temporarily dispatched her boyfriend. Now she's squaring off with Mr. Clarkson.

And, the oft-referenced Maxie Williams is preparing to enter the fray.

So let the games begin.

This is Episode Three of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 04

Release date: 22 August 2023

Excerpt of Intro:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello and welcome to The 3:57 by William E. Spear. My name is William Spear and this is our series IT SUITS HER.

Last time, Maxie was trying to pick up his suit and arrived moments after the tailoring shop closed. Celia was trying to save her job and demanded he leave at once.

Sit back and enjoy the slugfest of Episode Four in . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 05

Release date: 29 August 2023

Excerpt of Intro:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. Welcome to The 3:57 and our series IT SUITS HER. I am the host William Spear.

In the last episode, Maxie tried lying to get his suit but Celia was having none of that. Round one went to her but he is determined to withstand her verbal onslaught.

The tailoring shop is full of fireworks for Episode Five of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 06

Release date: 5 September 2023

Excerpt of Intro:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. I am William Spear and the host of The 3:57. This is our series IT SUITS HER.

Celia Court, "Ceel" to her friends, works as an Assistant Manager in Smart Styles tailoring shop. Maxwell "Maxie" Williams needs his suit from the shop for an appointment.

Each is running away from their past. But from what in particular?

It's more of Celia versus Maxie and Maxie versus Celia in Episode Six of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 07

Release date: 12 September 2023

Excerpt of Intro:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. I am William Spear and the host of The 3:57. This is our series IT SUITS HER.

For the first time since meeting each other, Celia and Maxie were having a civil, rather than caustic, conversation. UNTIL Maxie told Celia he used to be a big star and asked how big she was. When she said, "A size nine" Maxie flew off the handle.

Listen as they struggle to repair, rather than re-aggravate, their moment in Episode Seven of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

End of excerpt.

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The Table

A simple table with settings for six awaits its guests. But who are the guests and will they come? Perhaps, more importantly, can they come?

The Table, which is drawn from the Missing Man Table and Honors ceremony, is offered as a monument to reflect upon the men and women who have “served the nation in a special and now unending way.”

Introduction:

Hello and welcome to The 3:57. My name is William Spear.

This episode is THE TABLE. It is adapted from The Missing Man Table Ceremony in honor of National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

The commemoration started with congressional and presidential resolutions in 1979 acknowledging the efforts of families of more than 2,500 POWs and MIAs from the Vietnam War.

Subsequent presidents have continued the honor on the third Friday in September as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Further, former prisoners of war and those still missing in action from all U. S. conflicts are now recognized. 

The Defense Department continues efforts to account for POWs and MIAs from World War Two, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, the Gulf Wars, and other recent conflicts. 

They seek to "Provide the fullest possible accounting for our missing personnel to their families and the nation."

And now . . . THE TABLE. 

End of introduction.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 08

Release date: 19 September 2023

Excerpt of Intro:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. I am William Spear and the host of The 3:57. This is our series IT SUITS HER.

Once again the common ground between Celia and Maxie is trampled upon. This time, his gesture of good will toward her parents caused Celia to reveal they have been gone for years.

Will their relationship survive another setback?

It's emotional wounds and bandages galore in Episode Eight of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 09

Release date: 26 September 2023

Start excerpted transcript:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello and welcome to The 3:57 by William E. Spear. I am the host of the program and this is our series IT SUITS HER.

Celia and Maxie have connected through a related moment in their past. Maxie shared a scene from his greatest film triumph and Celia told how the same scene played out with her leaving her parents.

How long will the rose petals and angel choirs last? Find out in Episode Nine of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

End of excerpt.

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CASEY AT THE BAT

By Ernest Lawrence Thayer

Start excerpted transcript:

(Take Me Out to the Ballpark comes up)

Hello. This is The 3:57 and my name is William Spear. This episode is one of the all-time sports classics - CASEY AT THE BAT.

Every sports fan knows the sting of defeat when a favorite team loses. From football to bowling to curling, fans take losses hard.

But one story has captured the despair of a crushing loss since 1888. That's when Ernest Lawrence Thayer told the tale of the Mudville fans. Losing late in the game, they hoped their hero would get a chance to bat. And he did!

And now . . . CASEY AT THE BAT.

The outlook wasn't brilliant for the Mudville nine that day:

The score stood four to two, with but one inning more to play,

And then when Cooney died at first, and Barrows did the same,

A pall-like silence fell upon the patrons of the game.

A straggling few got up to go in deep despair. The rest

Clung to the hope which springs eternal in the human breast;

They thought, "If only Casey could but get a whack at that—

We'd put up even money now, with Casey at the bat."

But Flynn preceded Casey, as did also Jimmy Blake,

And the former was a hoodoo, while the latter was a cake;

So upon that stricken multitude grim melancholy sat,

For there seemed but little chance of Casey getting to the bat.

But Flynn let drive a single, to the wonderment of all,

And Blake, the much despisèd, tore the cover off the ball;

And when the dust had lifted, and men saw what had occurred,

There was Jimmy safe at second and Flynn a-hugging third.

Then from five thousand throats and more there rose a lusty yell;

It rumbled through the valley, it rattled in the dell;

It pounded on the mountain and recoiled upon the flat,

For Casey, mighty Casey, was advancing to the bat.

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 10

Release date: 3 October 2023

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello and welcome to IT SUITS HER . . . the current series from The 3:57 by me, William E. Spear.

The bloom of friendship between Celia and Maxie has wilted under the raging frost of their mutually-inflicted antagonism. 

What started as caustic barbs interrupted by moments of civility now lacks any human qualities.

Can it get any worse? Listen to Episode Ten of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

Maxie angrily reminded Celia her parents probably wanted to be there for her but didn’t know how.

Celia, with equal anger, threw back that all they had to do was ask!

She was cut off by Maxie's fury: "It’s not that easy!"

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 11

Release date: 10 October 2023

Start excerpted transcript:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. I'm Maxie Williams and this is The 3:57 by William E. Spear. Normally Spear is the host but he had too much milkshake and asked me to step in. This is our current series called IT SUITS HER.

I was within moments of getting my suit when Mr. Clarkson, owner of Smart Styles tailoring shop and Celia's boss, returned.

Clarkson is not pleased about Celia's lie earlier in the evening to get him out of the shop. He is further displeased about the shop not being closed.

Clarkson's return is like pulling a loose thread: everything unravels. Listen to the details here on . . . Episode Eleven of IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

It's me, Maxie Williams, again. I am still without my suit, late for my audition, and now dealing with Miss Court's boss.

It's a trifecta of aggravation and Mr. Clarkson is leading the pack.

Clarkson barged in and barked at Miss Court: "You have a lot of explaining to do. First, my wife never called."

"I can explain," said Miss Court.

"Second," continued Clarkson slightly louder. "The shop isn’t closed."

"That can be explained, too," she added.

"And, third," said Clarkson at full volume and turning to look at me. "Who’s this guy?" 

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 12

Release date: 17 October 2023

Start excerpted transcript:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. This is Celia Court for The 3:57. The regular host, William Spear, is still suffering from quote "too many milkshakes" endquote. Wink, wink. Maxie offered to host again but, candidly, I am better.

And welcome back to our current series called IT SUITS CELIA. Actually, the title is IT SUITS HER.

My boss, Mr. Clarkson, nicknamed The Porcupine, has returned to the Smart Styles tailoring shop and HE IS MAD! I lied about his wife calling to make him leave, I didn't close the shop on time, and a customer, Maxie Williams, is still here.

He also took a few shots at Maxie's career ending over a decade ago and about being a drunk. I was annoyed Maxie hadn't volunteered that information himself.

Mr. Clarkson's prickly cross-examination was like cutting a cake with a chain saw: pieces went flying everywhere. Listen here for the details of . . . Episode Twelve of IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Smart Styles Tailoring Shop fades up and under)

The Porcupine, uh, Mr. Clarkson, repeated itself: "Miss Court, why didn't you close the shop as I instructed you?"

"I tried," I said.

"Then how'd the drunk get in here?" he demanded.

Maxie rolled his eyes and said it was enough with the drunk lines already.

I told Mr. Clarkson he walked in before I could get the key.

"To sleep off a bender?" growled Clarkson.

Maxie explained he stopped to pick up his suit for an audition, then looked at his watch, and said, "Holy schmoly, look at the time."

End of excerpt.

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THE RAVEN

By Edgar Allan Poe

Release date: 21 October 2023

Start excerpted transcript:

(The Raven Intro and Outro comes on)

Hello and welcome to The 3:57. I am the host, William E. Spear.

This episode contains a grieving heart - not to be confused with a tell-tale heart - and avian anxiety that first flew in the middle of the nineteenth century.

Edgar Allan Poe published THE RAVEN in 1845. Immediately, his "lost Lenore" and feathered fear induced "dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before" that continue to this day.

And now, quoth the host, THE RAVEN.

(Interior Theme for The Raven comes up and goes under)

Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary,

Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore,

While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping,

As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.

"'Tis some visitor," I muttered, "tapping at my chamber door-

Only this, and nothing more."

Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the bleak December,

And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor.

Eagerly I wished the morrow;- vainly I had sought to borrow

From my books surcease of sorrow- sorrow for the lost Lenore-

For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore-

Nameless here for evermore.

[Theme for Lenore comes up and under]

And the silken, sad, uncertain rustling of each purple curtain

Thrilled me- filled me with fantastic terrors never felt before;

So that now, to still the beating of my heart, I stood repeating,

"'Tis some visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door-

Some late visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door;-

This it is, and nothing more."

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 13

Release date: 24 October 2023

Start excerpted transcript:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. This is William Spear, host of The 3:57 by William E. Spear. Thanks to Maxie and Celia for hosting the program while I recovered from too many milkshakes.

This is the current series called IT SUITS HER.

Maxie has gotten his suit - all puns are intended - but at a price well beyond the twenty dollars he paid. Celia has been fired from the Smart Styles Tailoring Shop. They are standing in the dark in cold weather.

For the first time, they are simply and merely two people. There is no ex-movie star. There is no assistant manager. Just two individuals with fractured pasts and blank futures.

What's next for them? Stay tuned for Episode Thirteen of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Standing in the Cold)

Celia and Maxie are standing and nearly shivering. The evening has gone where neither expected. 

She finally speaks: "I almost bit a hole in my lip to keep from laughing when you wanted a receipt."

Maxie returned the humor: "And you pushed him over the edge when you asked."

The cold temperature chilled their attempted humor laughter. 

Celia nodded: "It’s a nice suit, though."

Maxie let her know he was sorry about her job.

"There are plenty of other jobs," she shrugged. "I can start over with someone else. But you missed your audition."

Celia's cell phone, muffled in her coat pocket, rang twice. Maxie paused but Celia shook her head "No" and said he could leave a message.

Maxie continued: "Anyway, the audition was a hundred to one shot that wasn’t meant to be. I’ll get another one."

Celia smiled and considered her words carefully: "Were you really a drunk?"

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 14

Release date: 31 October 2023

Start excerpted transcript:

Hello. This is The 3:57 by William E. Spear. I am the host, William Spear. This episode of IT SUITS HER is coming from a dark and cold street in front of Smart Styles tailoring shop in Flemington, New Jersey.

Celia has been fired and Maxie has missed his audition.

And, Maxie has admitted his drinking problem. But he assures her he hasn't had one in five years, six months, two weeks, one day, and seventeen, or rather as she would later correct, eightteen minutes.

As they stand there, they are joined by a voice that means nothing to her but a world of failures to him.

How does he handle this? Stay tuned for Episode Fourteen of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Standing in the Cold)

Maxie winced at the voice: "The auditions are over, aren’t they?

The voice responded: "Yes, Max, the auditions are over. Who’s your friend?"

Celia - the friend - offered to step away, but Maxie stopped her: "No, please stay."

End of excerpt.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 16

Release date: 14 November 2023

Start of excerpted transcript:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. I am William Spear and this is The 3:57 by by the aforementioned. You are listening to our current series called IT SUITS HER.

The story is going to start in a moment but we have a few words from our friends at MADISON ON THE AIR. Before the promo starts, we advise to strap yourself in. 

(Insert Madison on the Air promo)

Thanks, Madison, I needed the boost. Now back to our show.

Maxie has been sipping tonic and limes for two hours waiting for Celia at Nick's Italian Bistro. It was almost midnight as Nick the owner offers a holiday greeting: "It is the last few evenings before the day before the morning of Merry Christmas."

Max still doesn't know what that means.

With Celia no-show for dinner, Maxie concedes the night is over in Episode Sixteen of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Nick's Italian Bistro fades up and under)

"I guess," Maxie said to Nick. "She got a better offer."

 A familiar voice entered their conversation: "Not a better offer. But an overdue part. Hi, Max. I have someone I’d like you to meet."

Maxie wondered if it was the young man who kept calling her.

"It's my mother and father," she said and spun around to make introductions. "Mom, dad . . . this is Argosy Williams."

"Mister Williams," Celia's mom spoke first. "It’s a pleasure to meet you. We’ve seen lots of your films."

Celia's dad went next: "THE TERMINUS is my favorite. The one scene where-"

Maxie cut him off: “It's where I say "If you’ll excuse us, Sarah, I fear you’ve discovered what we’ve worked so hard to keep hidden.”"

Mr. Court corrected him: "No, it’s where the husband and wife welcome back their daughter after she’s been gone for five years.

Maxie smiled and bowed to Mr. and Mrs. Court: "You have a special daughter." 

Mr. Court thanked him for helping Celia to get a job and Maxie returned with, "My pleasure."

Celia pulled him aside: "Max, can I take a rain check on dinner? We have some catching up to do."

End of excerpted transcript.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 17

Release date: 21 November 2023

Start of excerpted transcript:

Hello. My name is William Spear and your are listening to The 3:57.

The current series is called IT SUITS HER.

The story is going to launch in a moment but we have a few words from our friends at MADISON ON THE AIR. Three, two, one . . . Ignition, baby!

(Insert Madison on the Air promo)

Thanks, Madison, I needed a cup of coffee. Back to our show.

Maxie's celebratory dinner plans with Celia have evaporated in the wake of her reunion with her parents. He is alone in Nick's Italian Bistro and his spirits are as flat as the tonic water in his glass.

At the moment, he could give Scrooge a run for his money.

And now, Episode Seventeen of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Nick's Bistro fades up and under)

Maxie stared at the Courts leaving and slumped. Everyone was celebrating but him he said to Nick.

"But you are having a role in Mister Tony’s new play. That is worth celebrating."

"You’re right," said Maxie. "Bring me your most expensive bottle of tonic water and a fresh lime."

"That’s the new Mister Maxie I am remembering." Nick called to the bartender: "One vodka tonic . . . holding on the vodka."

The cocktail was delivered and raised in honor of the season.

Tony appeared: "Hiya Maxie. I was hoping you’d still be here. You didn't end your record did you?"

End of excerpted transcript.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 18

Release date: 28 November 2023

Start of excerpted transcript:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. You are listening to The 3:57 by William E. Spear. This is the current series called IT SUITS HER.

The story is starting in a moment but we have one last appearance from MADISON ON THE AIR. Get us started, Madison.

(Insert Madison on the Air promo)

Thanks, Madison, it was a blast having you. And now, back to our show.

While sitting in Nick's Italian Bistro, Maxie received a surprise: his estranged wife, Agnes, has shown up in the restaurant.

She was invited by Tony, the director of the play Maxie has been cast.

Agnes and Maxie have not seen each other in ten years.

And he promptly speaks as if he is new to the English language.

It's all verbal miscues and "please don't leave, Tony" in Episode Eightteen of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Nick's Italian Bistro fades up and under)

"Agnes?" Maxie stumbled over his words. "I, you, uh, it’s only tonic, I promise, but, . . ."

Agnes was torn between laughing or throwing a chair at the tongue-tied Maxie.

He continued his verbal theatrics: "When? You? Here? Dinner having? But how?"

"I get hungry, too," she said.

End of excerpted transcript.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 19

Release date: 3 December 2023

Start of excerpted transcript:

(Cold opening)

Hello. You are listening to The 3:57. I am the host, William Spear, and this is the current series called IT SUITS HER.

This part of the story has no music, no theme songs, and no segues. It is one person facing a moment ten years in the making.

The protagonist, Argosy Maxwell Williams, is sitting in his friend's restaurant. Nicknamed Maxie, he once had a career envied by most.

He acted opposite the finest performers of his generation. He worked for legendary directors and turned down scripts from the most powerful studios in the world.

Maxie also drank himself out of his career and lost his family. He's been sober for five years but hasn't seen his wife in ten. While in the restaurant, his wife unexpectedly sits at his table.

With no preparation and no rehearsal, this is the performance of his life. Enjoy Episode Nineteen of IT SUITS HER and Maxie . . . it's all yours.

(Cold throughout)

Thanks, William.

I begged Tony not to leave but it didn't work. With no alternative, and not wishing to draw attention to myself, I sat.

There was no choice but to talk with Agnes.

She started: "How’ve you been for the last ten years . . . Maxie?"

I answered with phony amazement: "Look at the time."

Agnes stared at me and I had to answer: "Oh, you know. A little of this and a little of that."

"Working?" she asked expecting me to say "No".

My discomfort was growing. I faked a yawn and continued: "It really is kind of late."

She stared. Defeat thy name is Maxie.

End of excerpted transcript.

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A DECEMBER FORCE OF POETS

Release date: 9 December 2023

Poetry with a December focus from Emily Jane Brontë, Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, and Mary Bridges Caned Slade is highlighted in this edition of A DECEMBER FORCE OF POETS. William Spear narrates TO A WREATH OF SNOW, OUT IN THE COLD, and WHAT DECEMBER SAYS from Brontë, Harper, and Slade, respectively.

The first poem is Emily Jane Brontë's TO A WREATH OF SNOW.

Brontë was born in Yorkshire, England in 1818 and wrote nearly 200 poems and the novel WUTHERING HEIGHTS.

TO A WREATH OF SNOW was written in 1837 and published after Brontë's death.

The second poem is Frances Ellen Watkins Harper's OUT IN THE COLD.

Harper was born in Baltimore, Maryland USA in September of 1825. Her work included poetry, short stories, and novels.

OUT IN THE COLD includes Harper's reflections upon women who have been "Wrecked and ruined, wronged and betrayed".

The third poem is Mary Bridges Caned Slade's WHAT DECEMBER SAYS.

Slade was born in Fall River, Massachusetts USA in 1826 and was a teacher and musical composer.

Slade implores readers to "open our hearts" in WHAT DECEMBER SAYS.

Sit back and enjoy A DECEMBER FORCE OF POETS.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 20

Release date: 12 December 2023

Start of excerpted transcript:

Hello. This is The 3:57 and I am your host, William Spear. You are listening to the current series called IT SUITS HER.

Maxie's "performance of his life" was experienced only by his wife, Agnes, and him. There were no awards. No photographers calling "Over here, Mr. Williams. Over here!"

No interviews on national and international magazines.

Instead, he answered her question about working at Scherzer's, the high-end department store in Flemington. He told her he couldn't sell a glass of water to a man in the desert then added he made customers laugh and they usually bought a shirt or tie.

He spoke of working with some of the best people he'd ever known. Funny and creative, like an ensemble. Around them, he had gotten his timing back. They had encouraged him to audition for Tony's play.

He stared into his tonic and lime hoping to survive his emotions. What he got was the courage to ask Agnes a question.

What did he ask? Find out in Episode Twenty of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Nick's Italian Bistro fades up and under)

He stared into his glass, took a sip of tonic with lime, and asked: "Why are you here?"

End of excerpted transcript.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 21

Release date: 19 December 2023

Start of excerpted transcript:

Hello. My name is William Spear and I am the host of The 3:57. You are listening to the current series called IT SUITS HER.

Maxie is sitting with his estranged wife, Agnes, in his friend's restaurant. She asked why he drank so much, ran around, and never came home.

His answer will reveal his deepest fear.

How will Agnes react? Find out in Episode Twenty-one of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Nick's Italian Bistro fades up and under)

Maxie remembered his whirlwind acting career and success at portraying "the nice guy next door." The interviews, the parties, and the people he met all came flooding back. As did the changes he experienced.

He stared in his glass of tonic water and spoke to the nearly melted ice: "I was afraid that you wouldn’t think I was as good as the characters I played."

Agnes smiled at his willingness to be human at all times. His years of drinking had not changed that.

She allowed a sliver of her own humanity to enter the conversation and she spoke:

End of excerpted transcript.

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IT SUITS HER, Episode 22

Release date: 23 December 2023

Start of excerpted transcript:

(Theme for It Suits Her fades up and under)

Hello. My name is William Spear and I am the host of The 3:57. You are listening to the current series titled IT SUITS HER.

Maxie and Agnes are stumbling through an awkward and unplanned reunion after ten years of a mutually absent marriage. For differing reasons, neither had done much to look for, or reconcile with, the other.

Compounding the emotional desert, there are lingering traces of hostility. Truth be told, it was closer to a tsunami of sarcasm. Hers was aimed at him. His was aimed at himself.

Despite his personal journey with alcoholism, losing his career, and losing his family, Maxie still has an unwavering belief in his relationship with Agnes.

How will she react to that? Find out in Episode Twenty-two, the final episode, of . . . IT SUITS HER.

(Theme for Nick's Italian Bistro fades up and under)

Maxie stared at the bottom of his empty glass and went for broke: "Look, I, uh, I was wondering . . . "

He wasn't at his most verbally graceful and Agnes didn't help: "Well?"

Maxie went on: "I’m not really good with words."

Agnes warned him: "Don't tell Tony or he might change his mind about casting you."

"What I mean," said Maxie. "I’m not good with words unless they’re in a script. But I was thinking about . . . well . . . maybe sometime soon, not tomorrow or Christmas, but in the next week, might I . . . might I stop by to say hello to the kids."

End of excerpted transcript.

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Spirited - Episode 01, Breaking News

Release date: 28 December 2023

Start of excerpted transcript:

(Theme for the ANNUAL HOLIDAY READINGS comes up and goes under)

Hello and welcome back to the Agricultural and Literary Institute of Hunterdon County, New Jersey. The home for this year's holiday readings.

And a reminder that THE LEGEND OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE by Lucy Wheelock is coming up next.

Now the conclusion of . . . A CHRISTMAS CAROL.

(Theme for the ANNUAL HOLIDAY READINGS comes up and goes under)

“Scrooge was better than his word. He did it all, and infinitely more; and to Tiny Tim, who did not die, he was a second father. He became as good a friend, as good a master, and as good a man, as the good old city knew, or any other good old city, town, or borough, in the good old world. Some people laughed to see the alteration . . .” 

(Theme for BREAKING NEWS comes up and goes under)

Hello. This is William Spear of The Three Fifty-seven news desk and we interrupt our regular programming for this special bulletin.

Unconfirmed reports indicate protesters are planning to disrupt the annual reading of A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Neither the number of protesters, nor their motives, have been determined.

Charles Dickens created The cast of iconic characters in 1843. Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig, Tiny Tim and others are as vibrant and alive today as when the story was published.

We now return you to A CHRISTMAS CAROL.

End of excerpted transcript.

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ROMANCE TWENTY MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE

21 January 2024

Starring Fred and Frieda.

Out of retirement and fresh from successfully saving Jim and Francine's Place in THE MESSENGER DINES OUT series, the Messenger is asked to save one of the firm's oldest and most prestigious clients.

This means becoming a digital personal assistant (DPA) for two of the client's brightest stars:

- Jason Lines - Successful introverted designer who works hard but fears human interaction.

- Laura Flow - Successful introverted operations executive whose best friends are spreadsheets.

This also means having a staff: Fred and Frieda. Much like The Messenger, they are also DPAs.

Sit back and enjoy, in their own words, the trailer for ROMANCE TWENTY MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE.

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ROMANCE TWENTY MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE, Episode 01

17 February 2024

Welcome to a new series from The Messenger. Titled ROMANCE 20 MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE, it is another case for the retired now un-retired Messenger who must help one of the firm' most prestigious clients get a new product launch back on track.

But The Messenger must navigate the rigors of a staff and the impact of computerization.

Sit back and listen to Episode 01 - No! No! No! A Thousand Times, A Million Times, A Bazillion Times NO!

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ROMANCE 20 MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE, Episode 02 - I Would Not, Could Not Wear My Hair Like That!

The Messenger has been digitized into a computer and isn't happy. Even at quadruple pay. And the promised staff - Fred and Frieda - turn out to be clones of The Messenger.

Compounding the challenge, the client's contacts - Jason Lines and Laura Flow - are emotional train wrecks.

Is rebooting an option?

Enjoy Episode 02 - I Would Not, Could Not Wear My Hair Like That!

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ROMANCE 20 MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE, Episode 03 - How Did It So Soon Get To Be So Late So Quickly?

With a quadruple payday on the line, The Messenger's digital self and two clones are still stuck inside of a computer and the mission seems hopeless. Then, hold the mobile phone, the real reason for the assignment becomes apparent. And guess who rides to the rescue!

Enjoy Episode 03 - How Did It So Soon Get To Be So Late So Quickly?

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ROMANCE 20 MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE, Episode 04 - A Person's A Person Even If Digital

The Messenger gets even with The Boss and vengeance is sweet. So everything turned out right? Stick around for the after credit scene just to make sure.

Enjoy Episode 04 - A Person's A Person Even If Digital

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SEVENTEEN, Episode 05 - The Clenched Fist

The central character is Severin Vincent Tennyson. Nicknamed “Tenny,” He is a sixty-four-year-old non-verbal, cane-using janitor at Gunderson High School in central New Jersey.

In a previous episode, the appearance of the newly hired Superintendent Millicent di Stefano, triggered Tenny to run from the auditorium thumping his chest shouting “Seventeen.”

By the way, no one in the school had seen him even walk without his cane, let alone run. Nor had anyone ever hear him speak.

Along the way, he left the super’s Chief of Staff sprawled on the floor like a jigsaw puzzle missing a few pieces.

Also, Jennifer Hargrove, Tenny’s job coach and a junior at the high school, quietly slipped out of the auditorium and followed him.

Enjoy SEVENTEEN, Episode 05 - The Clenched Fist.

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SEVENTEEN - Episode 06, Hostilities are Resumed

The central character is Severin Vincent Tennyson. Nicknamed “Tenny,” he is a sixty-four-year-old non-verbal, cane-using janitor at Gunderson High School in central New Jersey.

Previously, Jennifer Hargrove, Tenny’s job coach and a junior at the high school, followed him two floors below the auditorium. She found him ramming his head into a locker and yelling “No”, “No!”, “NO!” Grudgingly his hand gestures revealed seeing Superintendent di Stefano for the first time in over forty years triggered a flood of memories. 

Also, and leaving the auditorium, the aforementioned Superintendent di Stefano and Principal Baker continued their verbal slugfest.

Enjoy Episode Six . . . HOSTILITIES ARE RESUMED.

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SEVENTEEN - Episode 07, Augering In

Superintendent di Stefano's argument with Principal Baker has decayed into a confontation with Tenny. He slams onto a table a large wooden box labeled Paterson Firearms Company.

History Teacher Clarke Evans says that's not necessary but Tenny demands, “Need now.”

That's when di Stefano heard him say, "For you."

Enjoy Episode Seven . . . AUGERING IN.

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SEVENTEEN - Episode 08, His Final Mission

In the basement of Gunderson High School, Tenny is reliving battles only he can see while struggling to deliver a decades-old message to Superintendent Millicent di Stefano from her deceased brother, Tony.

He is surrounded by Di Stefano, Principal Baker, History Teacher Clarke Evans, and Jennifer Hargrove, Tenny’s job coach.

That's when the bomb exploded.

Enjoy the Eighth, and Concluding, Episode . . . HIS FINAL MISSION.

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I Will Not Dance, Episode 01 - Two Hundred Feet

Over four episodes, an Unnamed Service Personnel will tell of leaving family and dying in battle.

Although the events are set in the Second World War, and the Narrator is from New Jersey, U.S.A., the story could be told of any conflict and the warrior could be from any country.

Join us as the Narrator celebrates a family wedding and historical roots in Episode One titled TWO HUNDRED FEET.

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I Will Not Dance, Episode 02 - Rhythms and Sounds

The Three Fifty-seven continues its commemoration to those individuals who died while serving the country.

My name is William Spear and the series is titled I WILL NOT DANCE. Over four episodes, an Unnamed Service Personnel will tell of leaving family and dying in battle.

The events are set in the Second World War, and the Narrator is from New Jersey, U.S.A. However, the story could be told of any conflict and the warrior could be from any country. 

Previously, the Unnamed Service Personnel celebrated a family wedding and shared glimpses of heritage back in County Cavan in Ireland.

And spoke, too, of receiving a draft notice to join the military.

This time, the Narrator reacts to the notice and the prospect of leaving family in Episode Two titled RHYTHMS AND SOUNDS.

Enjoy.

WESJr

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I Will Not Dance, Episode 03 - Deep Percussions

The Three Fifty-seven continues its commemoration to individuals who died while serving the country.

My name is William Spear and this series is titled I WILL NOT DANCE. Over four episodes, an Unnamed Service Personnel will tell of leaving family and dying in battle. Although the events are set in the Second World War, and the Narrator is from New Jersey, U.S.A, the story could be told of any conflict and the warrior could be from any country. 

Previously, before shipping out, the Unnamed Service Personnel visited Family members and Friends and savored the sights, sounds, and foods of Jersey City. When those days dwindled, the Narrator realized “The time had come . . . I was now Uncle Sam’s.”

Others from all walks of Life join the Narrator as they lean hard against a north wind in Episode Three titled DEEP PERCUSSIONS.

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I WILL NOT DANCE, Episode 04 – Raucously, Still

The Three Fifty-seven finishes its commemoration to individuals who died while serving the country.

My name is William Spear and this series is titled I WILL NOT DANCE. Over four episodes, an Unnamed Service Personnel told of leaving family and dying in battle.

The events are set in the Second World War and the Narrator is from New Jersey, U.S.A, but the story could be told of many conflicts and the warrior could be from any country. 

Previously, the Unnamed Service Personnel spoke of dying in France: “I was shot. Killed . . . alone and far from home.”

What happened to the memories before the war? Family and Friends whose two hundred feet crescendoed in a wedding hall? Rhythms and sounds of gray mornings and frosty evenings? Rich tapestries of aromatic foods filling the air?

Listen beyond the sadness of forever echoing funeral music or never ending melancholia for a lost relative. Listen to the Fourth and Final Episode titled RAUCOUSLY, STILL.

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