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The Writ Writer

Scipio Africanus Jones. Help us tell the amazing true story of this relatively unknown black attorney who, in 1919, changed the course of history.

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The Writ Writer

The Writ Writer

The Writ Writer

The Writ Writer

The Writ Writer

Scipio Africanus Jones. Help us tell the amazing true story of this relatively unknown black attorney who, in 1919, changed the course of history.

Scipio Africanus Jones. Help us tell the amazing true story of this relatively unknown black attorney who, in 1919, changed the course of history.

Scipio Africanus Jones. Help us tell the amazing true story of this relatively unknown black attorney who, in 1919, changed the course of history.

Scipio Africanus Jones. Help us tell the amazing true story of this relatively unknown black attorney who, in 1919, changed the course of history.

Guy Rathbun Audio Productions
Guy Rathbun Audio Productions
Guy Rathbun Audio Productions
Guy Rathbun Audio Productions
1 Campaign |
Santa Margarita, United States
$2,376 USD 14 backers
6% of $37,400 Flexible Goal Flexible Goal

      The Writ Writer Project: Rathbun Audio Productions

Our goal is to produce an audio Documentary about the life of Scipio Africanus Jones. This will join our companion piece, “The Writ Writer” Docudrama, which profiles his most influential Court case, Moore vs. Dempsey.

  • The year was 1919. The place: Phillips County, Arkansas.

What became a watershed moment in U.S. history, this is the story of attorney  SCIPIO AFRICANUS JONES, and one man’s gallant, courageous and successful effort to fight murder convictions brought against nearly 100 black sharecroppers, 12 of whom were sentenced to die in the electric chair. (For details, see below: “A Brief Background”)

Having accomplished such an amazing feat, WHY IS IT THAT SO FEW PEOPLE HAVE EVER HEARD OF HIM? This is a story that begs to be told. It is timely. It’s long overdue. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN CORRECT THIS.

What We Wish to Accomplish

We all need heroes – those who inspire us to have a vision of something greater than ourselves. This man’s name should be shouted from the rooftops. S.A. Jones holds a place of distinction in U.S. history. His legal accomplishments established a framework for the Court’s subsequent rulings on due process, and played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. His court actions of nearly 100-years ago are frequently cited and benefit all citizens to this day.

The purpose of this project is to research and produce an audio documentary on the life of Scipio Africanus Jones – a person who had not only a brilliant mind, but also a beautiful spirit.

The resulting professionally mastered CD will compliment our soon to be enhanced docudrama. Guy Rathbun Audio Productions will then make these CDs available for distribution to educational institutions, libraries, public radio stations and individuals.

Inspired by Guy’s passion, and what he tells us about this profound bit of history, the value of doing further research and producing an audio documentary has captured the imagination of those who readily became the Crew. We hope you will find this project worthy of your support. Thank You.

A Message from the Producer, Guy Rathbun

What began as a work on a docudrama about the Court cases stemming from the Elaine Massacre, grew to admiration for S.A. Jones himself; hence, the desire to expand our project to include a documentary, illuminating this truly stellar individual. What is it that draws me to this man? Scipio is someone we could all use as a role model. Ethical, courageous, humble, respectful, determined – few people so embody those qualities, as does he.

In my 40-years of audio production, I don’t believe that I have ever felt a deeper passion for any subject. I want this project to work. The research and resulting documentary are extremely important to me, not for self-recognition, but for a better understanding of the ways in which a notable human being can touch the lives of others, even after his life has ended.

Part 1: The Docudrama “The Writ Writer” (85% complete)

The radio drama version of “The Writ Writer,” by Michael Murphy, was produced by Guy Rathbun Audio Productions approximately 3-years ago, and was aired on the local public radio station. Though everyone involved in the original recording felt it to be a meaningful experience, it had been looked upon as a one-time project. But, what had started out as a fascination with the little known attorney, soon turned into a true obsession. As producer Rathbun said, “I just couldn’t let Scipio go.” After reading more history about S.A. Jones, the dream of producing an accompanying audio documentary was born.

Because the original objective to produce the radio drama as a one-time airing has changed, there is need to create a revised version. At 2½ hours in length, it is necessary to make it more compact, as well as add additional sound effects and layering. This will entail approximately 150-hours of post-production work, enabling us to tighten the script, as well as to create a fully enhanced stereo product.

Part II: The Documentary (the new part)

The documentary will include the period covered in the docudrama, and will provide a more in depth portrait of Scipio. In addition, we wish to offer a historical perspective regarding the importance of Moore vs. Dempsey in today’s world, which demonstrates a direct link to the Civil Rights Movement 40-years later, as well as legal due process as it exists today.

The immediate objective is to travel to the story’s source: the state of Arkansas; and, secondarily, to Washington D.C., where Guy will use his widely respected skills to conduct recorded interviews with:

It is our belief that the CD and/or iPod format we create will facilitate access for many through distribution to educational institutions, libraries, public radio stations, and the Internet 

Target Date: The completion date for both projects is late March 2014. We are excited about this project and look forward to sharing the results.

A Brief Background

                                                                                                    

In 1919, a horrific event known as the Elaine Massacre took place in Arkansas. The population of this small town was primarily black sharecroppers who decided to hold a meeting one night to explore the possibility of forming a union to fight for better pay and working conditions. Thirty-six hours later the dead numbered over 400 blacks and five white men. Twelve black men were tried for murder of the five white men, and sentenced to death. Nearly 100-other black men were convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to lengthy prison terms.

The appeals process for these convictions took several years. The outcome was the release of the twelve men sentenced for execution as well as all other defendants.

Although, as part of this story, many will learn of the devastating Elaine Massacre, this is not about finding blame. Our primary objective is to provide information about the accomplishments of this unheralded civil rights leader, whose presence helped change the course of history.

Meet the Producer & the Crew: Guy Rathbun Audio Productions Central Coast of California

Guy began his career in broadcasting 40-years ago, teaching audio recording and broadcasting, working in commercial radio as a news director, and public radio as program manager – a hat he wore for 25-years. During this time, he conducted interviews with authors and national figures on current social and political issues, economics, philosophy and fiction. Other productions have included radio dramas, documentaries and music programs. His show, the Club McKenzie, which is dedicated to jazz of the 1920s, has been on the air for 38-years.

In 2011, Guy left public radio and became an independent producer airing his programs through Public Radio Exchange (PRX), under the titles of IdeaSphere, interviews with today’s newsmakers; Turning Pages, authors of fiction and non-fiction; and the Club McKenzie, early jazz with commentary. He wishes to expand his offerings to include “The Writ Writer” project.

The Crew

Those of us involved with this project feel passionate about what we wish to accomplish. In addition to producer Guy Rathbun, our team includes Bill Ingalls, Executive Producer; Michael Murphy, scriptwriter; Rafael J. Noblé, professional actor; and consultants Annette Rathbun, Crissa Hewitt, Deb Ingalls and Zette Harbour. There are many on the periphery, who are helping in innumerable ways. We are grateful to have their support, and are glad that they, too, are finding the story of Scipio to be an inspiration.

Where does the money go?

  • ·      Travel expenses: (For the producer and assistant, to travel to Arkansas and Washington DC, including air fare, car rental and related car expenses, lodging, and daily expenses)  $5,500
  • ·      Additional equipment for the audio documentary:  $2,600
  • ·      Research & writing in studio and on location $1,800
  • ·      Post production costs (for PHASE I and PHASE II)  $11,000
  • ·      CD Replication for educational distribution; promotion and publicity for public radio distribution: $8,000
  • ·      Stipend for actors and crew for the original docudrama:  $8,500

Should we exceed our financial goal on this project, any donations above the requested amount will be placed in a special account as seed money for our long range project - a video documentary about Scipio Africanus Jones.

Thank you so much for considering this project.

How Else Might You Help?

Even if you’re unable to offer financial support, if this project has touched you in any way, please share it with your friends and family.

Special Information regarding PERKS

  • ·      All thank you cards will be mailed upon receipt of your contribution.
  • ·      All other PERKS including downloads and CDs will be mailed by the end of March 2014, possibly sooner.
  • ·      Compact Discs are professionally mastered and fully guaranteed.
  • ·      Signed photos and scripts are signature only and cannot be personalized.
  • ·      Tote bag: Quality canvas totes, imprinted with “The Writ Writer – Scipio Africanus Jones,” style and color to be determined.
  • ·      All materials received are copyrighted and for personal use only. Written permission must be granted for any other use.
  • ·      RE: Shipments outside the continental United States (excluding thank you cards, email updates and program downloads): All materials shipped outside the U.S. will have an additional fee. Charges will be based upon the actual shipping costs of your chosen PERK Package minus credit for domestic shipping costs.

Acknowledgements

  • ·      Thank you to our team and to all of you who have embraced this project.
  • ·      Special thanks - the Butler Center for Arkansas Studies and Arkansas History Commission for the use of their images.
  • ·      Many thanks to author and historian Grif Stockley.
  • ·      Unbounded appreciation to “D,” who wishes to remain anonymous – you know who you are.
  • ·      Unending plaudits to Michael Murphy, who brought the story of Scipio to our attention in the first place through his masterful screenplay.
  • ·      A Golden Microphone Award to Rafael J. Noblé for his touching portrayal of Scipio, and many thanks for his enthusiastic involvement with the project.
  • ·      Accolades to the many actors who participated in the docudrama.
  • ·      A loud “Shout Out” to Bob Howell for his superb camera work.
  • ·      Thanks to radio host Dave Congalton (KVEC) for his friendship and support.
  • ·      Lastly, hugs to Smitty, the Siamese cat, who always offers his vocal appreciation.
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Choose your Perk

1.

$25 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project Download of enhanced audio Docudrama (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
3 claimed

2.

$50 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project Download of enhanced audio Docudrama Download of audio Documentary (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
1 claimed

3.

$75 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project Download of enhanced audio Docudrama Signed 8X10 color photo of Rafael J. Noblé (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
0 claimed

4.

$100 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project Download of enhanced audio Docudrama Download of audio Documentary Signed 8X10 color photo of Rafael J. Noblé (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
2 claimed

5.

$150 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project Download of enhanced audio Docudrama Download of audio Documentary Poster version (approx. 13X17) of the Writ Writer card (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
0 claimed

6.

$200 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project CD set of enhanced audio Docudrama CD of audio Documentary (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
0 claimed

7.

$250 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project Download of enhanced audio Docudrama Download of audio Documentary Bound and signed screenplay The Writ Writer by Michael Murphy Signed 8X10 color photo of Rafael J. Noblé (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
0 claimed

8.

$500 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project CD Set of enhanced audio Docudrama signed by producer CD of audio Documentary signed by producer Quality "Writ Writer "canvas tote bag Poster version (approx. 13X17) of the Writ Writer card Signed 8X10 color photo of Rafael J. Noblé (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
0 claimed

9. Deluxe Package

$750 USD
Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project Hand written letter from producer CD Set of enhanced audio Docudrama CD of audio Documentary Quality "Writ Writer "canvas tote bag Poster version (approx. 13X17) of the Writ Writer card Signed 8X10 color photo of Rafael J. Noblé Signed Screenplay The Writ Writer by Michael Murphy (BEAUTIFULLY HAND BOUND by a professional artist) (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
0 out of 6 of claimed

10. Underwriter Credit

$1,000 USD
Receive UNDERWRITER CREDIT mention at end of the audio Documentary, and printed credit on CD jacket. Writ Writer Thank You Card Email Updates through the run of the project Hand written letter from producer CD Set of enhanced audio Docudrama signed by producer CD of audio Documentary signed by producer Bound and signed screenplay The Writ Writer by Michael Murphy (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS" at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
March 2014
0 out of 10 of claimed

11. Dinner Package

$1,000 USD
Join us for elegant dinner at a nice Los Angeles, CA area restaurant (date and location to be announced. Includes Q and A with actor Rafael J. Noblé and producer Guy Rathbun) Writ Writer Thank You Card Writ Writer Email Updates through the run of the project CD Set of enhanced audio Docudrama CD of audio Documentary Bound and signed screenplay The Writ Writer by Michael Murphy Quality canvas tote bag (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS: at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
January 2014
0 claimed

11. Dinner Package

$1,000 USD
Join us for elegant dinner at a nice Los Angeles, CA area restaurant (date and location to be announced. Includes Q and A with actor Rafael J. Noblé and producer Guy Rathbun) Writ Writer Thank You Card Writ Writer Email Updates through the run of the project CD Set of enhanced audio Docudrama CD of audio Documentary Bound and signed screenplay The Writ Writer by Michael Murphy Quality canvas tote bag (*See "Special Information Regarding PERKS: at end of main project text)
Estimated Shipping
January 2014
0 claimed

12. Dinner Package for Two

$1,500 USD
Guest of contributor for PERK #11
Estimated Shipping
January 2014
0 claimed
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