I've met Jimmy and Betty Nelson at the Vent Haven conVENTion, but today was a real treat. Mark Wade and I were invited to visit Jimmy's home to interview him for the International Ventriloquist Society's Spotlight newsletter. We sat and talked for about an hour. The interview covered everything from how he started to his greatest moment in a seventy year career. We talked about working with Milton Berle and Ronald Reagan. He shared how Farfel was created at a late night show. There were famous stories and ones he has never shared before. It was amazing.

After the official interview, Jimmy brought out Danny O'Day and Farfel. We recorded some ad-libs as he played with them and gave us a demonstration of Farfel's animations. Naturally we asked for, and were granted a performance of the Nestles' jingle.

When the video camera was put away, we sat down to talk and share a wonderful afternoon with the legend. It was an experience I will never forget.

The entire interview will be in a future IVS Spotlight. I can't wait to share it with the community! (But unfortunately have too...)

Awesome! I look forward to seeing the interview!

Wonderful! Jimmy Nelson is a huge talent and a consummate gentleman. I look forward to the interview!

-Philip