The Southwest Voice

By: Louise Cooper

Two weeks ago second grade’s Flat Stanley cut out figure from the children’s book of fame took off from Southwest Bakersfield’s Stockdale and New Stine post office for the Big Apple, New York City. Our class packed him in a large manila envelope with a peanut butter and grape jelly sandwich — Flat Stanley’s favorite. Also enclosed were letters for our friend, Mr. Charlie Huntley, Stanley’s uncle and a successful New York City cameraman. We couldn’t wait to hear from Stanley upon arrival. Would he be scared in such a big city?

We shouldn’t have worried. Flat Stanley arrived a little tired, thirsty, and creased, but full of good spirits when Uncle Charlie took him out of the envelop and gave him a big flat hug. Since it was Saturday, they had a big brunch and a short nap and then took off for the subway. Flat Stanley was surprised to go under the city. Most of all he was afraid that the subway doors would close on him. He looked at all the people around him. It was true, nothing surprises New York. They didn’t even notice that he was flat!

After some fun on the set of a NYC local children's show and a romp through a Toys R Us with a real Ferris Wheel, Uncle Charlie and Flat Stanley took off for the Ed Sullivan Theater and taping of the David Letterman Show. Flat Stanley loves celebrities and was so happy when he saw Miss Piggy in the audience! He wanted to get her autograph, but there were too many people crowded around her. he was a little disappointed, but it was just as well since he suddenly felt very tired from his journey and all the excitement.

Uncle Charlie had to carry him all the way to the subway. Flat Stanley opened his eyes only once when a teenager sat on his leg. The scruffy teen leapt off right away when he heard what he though was a magazine cry out in pain. The rumbling sounds of the subway put Flat Stanley back to sleep quickly and the next thing he knew it was morning.

Uncle Charlie had Flat Stanley take a quick shower, drink some Carnation Instant Breakfast and brushed his teeth. Uncle Charlie had a last minute filming job to do in Washington, D.C. He decided to take Flat Stanley, but explained that he would have to mail him back home from D.C. since it was hard for a bachelor to cook and take care of him with such a busy schedule. And that’s what happened.

Oh no! Uncle Charlie forgot to put a sandwich in the envelope with Flat Stanley! He was so hungry when he got back to Southwest Bakersfield. Zip code 93309 never looked so good and peanut butter never tasted better. Best of all was being back with his friends. The Big Apple was great for new and exciting adventures, but being in school learning, playing and sliding down that ol’ familiar slide with his friends was best of all.

Report a Violation