Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode Summary: Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar: The Wayward River Matter
Release Date: May 19, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar, hosted by Choice Classic Radio, listeners are immersed in a tense narrative set against the backdrop of severe flooding threatening the small town of Carteret. The story masterfully intertwines personal relationships, professional duty, and moral dilemmas as Johnny Dollar, a seasoned freelance insurance investigator, navigates the complexities of disaster response and ethical decision-making.

The Flood Crisis

The episode opens with Johnny Dollar reconnecting with his old friend, Lee Hawkins of the Continental Insurance and Trust Company in Columbus, Ohio. Their conversation quickly shifts from nostalgic tales of fishing to the pressing issue at hand.

Lee Hawkins (02:10):
"Look, Johnny, I need you out here. Can you come right away?"

Lee informs Johnny about the unprecedented floods impacting Carteret, emphasizing that while major cities have received attention, smaller towns like Carteret are on the brink of disaster due to inadequate flood control measures.

Lee Hawkins (04:12):
"Most of the year it's a quiet, lazy stream about 50 or 60ft wide. But when the feeder streams up in the hills start pouring water down..."

Investigation and Tension

Upon arrival, Johnny and Lee assess the dire situation from a vantage point overlooking Carteret. They witness the frantic efforts of townsfolk battling the relentless Crooked River, which poses an imminent threat of engulfing the town.

Johnny Dollar (06:14):
"I stood there appalled and almost overwhelmed by a feeling of utter helplessness."

The investigation reveals that debris has accumulated against an old railroad trestle, effectively creating a dam that exacerbates the flooding. Recognizing the urgency, Johnny devises a plan to use dynamite to breach the dam and alleviate the swelling waters.

Climactic Confrontation

The plot thickens as Johnny and Lee approach Fred Norlock, a local hardware firm owner and one of Lee's significant clients. Norlock outwardly plays his part in the communal efforts but secretly harbors selfish motives.

Johnny Dollar (13:27):
"Let me handle this. Lee."

As tensions escalate, Norlock refuses to cooperate, leading to a standoff where Johnny is forced to confront Norlock's malicious intent to let the town perish for personal gain.

Fred Norlock (23:35):
"Keep your hand away from that pocket."

In a dramatic turn, Johnny outmaneuvers Norlock, ensuring the necessary dynamite is obtained to save Carteret.

Resolution

With the dynamite in hand, Johnny and Lee execute their plan to dismantle the dam, successfully preventing the catastrophic flood from demolishing Carteret. The town breathes a collective sigh of relief as the waters subside, and normalcy begins to return.

Johnny Dollar (19:54):
"The charge of dynamite on the old railroad bridge had broken the dam... nature, defeated, gave up."

Postlude

As the town recovers, Johnny reflects on the night's events, recognizing the tragic loss of Norlock, whose actions threatened the lives and livelihoods of many. The episode concludes with Johnny filing his expense report, noting the minimal cost of $100 for the operation.

Johnny Dollar (25:09):
"Yours truly, Johnny Dol."

Notable Quotes

• Lee Hawkins (02:10):
  "Look, Johnny, I need you out here. Can you come right away?"
  (02:10)

• Johnny Dollar (06:14):
  "I stood there appalled and almost overwhelmed by a feeling of utter helplessness."
  (06:14)

• Fred Norlock (23:35):
  "Keep your hand away from that pocket."
  (23:35)

• Johnny Dollar (19:54):
  "The charge of dynamite on the old railroad bridge had broken the dam... nature, defeated, gave up."
  (19:54)

Conclusion

Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar: The Wayward River Matter is a compelling tale of courage, friendship, and integrity. Through Johnny Dollar's unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth and saving a community, listeners are treated to a classic example of heroic detective work intertwined with human drama. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of old-time radio detective stories, offering both excitement and moral contemplation.

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