COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - It's Valentine's Day. And while it might be easy to get your significant other a dozen roses, a greeting card, or a box of chocolates, all the hip and cool people are still sending out singing telegrams.
At least that's what Captain Telegram tells us.
Since 1979, Telegram, also known as Mike Kelley to his family, has appeared everywhere in the city of Columbia.
"I have been, at one time or another, in every building in town," bragged Kelley.
But these days, fewer people are calling on the Captain. What was about 30 telegrams a week has fallen to around 17.
"A lot of the singing telegram services are gone, even the big ones," said Kelley.
But thanks to a few side businesses, he's still on the road delivering a blend of appreciation and embarrassment.
"I get to let people know they're special enough to get special attention," said Kelley. "Might be embarrassing, but it's still special."
It's a dying art more special than flowers or chocolates, Kelley says.
"A couple years down the road they won't remember that, but they won't forget getting a singing telegram," said Kelley.
Even if they do, the Captain will probably be around to remind them.
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