Sunday, August 31, 2008

Alternative Storyline for Days of Our Lives Part 27

INT: CHEZ ROUGE: NIGHT
Doug is on the stage singing “I Remember You”. Chloe is a the bar with Philip waiting to go on. Roman is at the other end of the bar, watching Doug and talking to Julie.

CHLOE
Do I look all right?

PHILIP
Why are you so nervous?

CHLOE
After what happened this afternoon, how can I not be.

PHILIP
I’m here. Roman’s here.

Morgan walks in and looks around. Seeing Philip, she walks to him.

CHLOE
Lucas was attacked in the middle of Salem Square. Besides I’m opening up with a new song.

PHILIP
The truth comes out.

CHLOE
It’s different.

MORGAN
Philip, I was looking for you.

PHILIP
You found me.

MORGAN
I need to talk to you.

CHLOE
(Annoyed)
Hello, Morgan. What is it this time?

MORGAN
Chloe, I didn’t expect to see you here.

CHLOE
I work here.

MORGAN
A little beneath an international opera star.

CHLOE
(Sexual undertone)
You have no idea what is beneath me.

MORGAN
Philip, I really need to talk to you--alone.

PHILIP
Can’t it wait.

MORGAN
It’s about my father.

CHLOE
(Under her breath)
Isn’t it always.

MORGAN
It’s important.

PHILIP
Chloe, we’ll just be a minute. Morgan, let’s go out on the terrace.

CHLOE
Don’t leave on my account. I need to go talk to Julie.

Chloe walks to the other end of the bar.

ROMAN
I thought Julie was just talking about a piano. There is a five piece orchestra.

JULIE
You know Doug. He can’t do anything small.

ROMAN
I think it’s wonderful. Hi Chloe.

CHLOE
Hi.

JULIE
What’s wrong?

CHLOE
(Faking a Southern accent)
Miss Magnolia has another emergency. She just has to talk to Philip about her daddy.

ROMAN
This is a little out of my expertise. I’m going to call my date and see what’s keeping her.

Roman walks toward the front entrance.

JULIE
(Looking at the other end of the bar)
You’re not going to just give up like that?

CHLOE
What can I do?

JULIE
Fight for what is yours.

CHLOE
He’s not mine.

JULIE
He is if you want him. I’ve seen the way he looks at you.

CHLOE
How can I compete with her damsel in distress routine?

JULIE
Mark your turf.

CHLOE
Mark my turf?

JULIE
You’re bright, talent and beautiful. Use your God given assets to get his attention.

CHLOE
If my dress was any lower, I would have a wardrobe malfunction.

JULIE
Looks only get their attention. To reel him in you have to be smarter and tougher than the competition. And believe me Morgan isn’t much competition unless you give her room to be. Yesterday, you rehearsed Albert’s friend song.

CHLOE
Yea.

JULIE
Got down enough to sing in?

CHLOE
Yes, but that’s not what Doug is going to announce.

JULIE
Let me take care of it.
CUT
EXT: CHEZ ROUGE: NIGHT
Roman is on his phone.

ROMAN
Hi, Alyssa. Roman. I’m at Chez Rouge. Could you give me a call?

He hangs up. Kate walks up.

KATE
Problem?

ROMAN
Not really. Katie, you look nice?

KATE
You clean up real nice too.
(Looking around)
Where’s your date?

ROMAN
She’s running a little late.

KATE
Oh. I see. How about if I buy you a drink while you wait? I’ll order you a Kamikaze.

ROMAN
Why in the world would you do that?

KATE
I saw the way you were looking at Marlena. You have never gotten over her.

ROMAN
Katie, Katie.

KATE
Isn’t that why you faked having a date?

ROMAN
I didn’t fake anything. Alyssa is just late.

KATE
Alyssa? How long have you known her?

ROMAN
We went to school together.

KATE
High school sweetheart?

Alyssa walks up.

ROMAN
No, actually she gave me a black eye. Hello, pretty lady. We were just talking about you. Kate. Alyssa. Alyssa. Kate.

ALYSSA
(Extending her hand)
It’s nice to meet one of Roman’s friends.

KATE
I’m his ex-wife.

ROMAN
Katie, be nice.

KATE
I am being nice.

ALYSSA
It’s good to meet you any way.
(To Roman)
I’m sorry I’m late.

ROMAN
No problem.
(To Kate)
It was nice seeing you again.

Roman and Alyssa walk inside, leaving Kate outside alone. She starts to go in, but changes her mind and walks toward the park.
CUT
INT: STANLEY AND MARIE’S BEDROOM: NIGHT
The shower can be heard from the bathroom. Stanley walks in carrying a large dress box. The water is turned off

STANLEY
Ava. There has been a change in plans. I called Martin. He is coming here.

AVA
(Walks out wearing a bathrobe)
I smell better at least.

STANLEY
I called Marie. She wanted you to wear this.
(Offering her the box)
It’s her wedding dress.

AVA
I couldn’t. That’s for family.

STANLEY
Marie wouldn’t have offered if she didn’t want you to wear it.

AVA
(Taking the box)
Thank you.

STANLEY
It might be a bit big. But Martin’s wife, Cheryl will becoming with him. She’ll be able to make it look nice.

Ava takes the dress out of the box. Made with silk and lace, it was designed after Renaissance era with full puffy sleeves and square cut bodice. It has a long and flowing train made of lace.

AVA
It’s beautiful.

STANLEY
Marie made it. There isn’t a vale. We wanted to see each other.

AVA
(Kissing his cheek)
It doesn’t need it. Thank you Stanley

STANLEY
(Patting his stomach)
My suits, well let say they would take a lot more alternating. I dug out one of my son’s suits. It’ll fit better in the waist. But I wouldn’t be taking any full length picture.

Ava’s confused.

You’ll see. I’ll send Cheryl up when she gets here.

Stanley walks out and closes the door. Smiling, Ava holds the dress up to herself and looks in the mirror.
CUT
INT: STEFANO’S OFFICE: NIGHT
John at the computer. His untouched dinner sets on the desk. Marlena sits across the room, finishing her dinner.

JOHN
I think I have it.

He types and pushes enter. The computer beeps at him

Not it.

MARLENA
That’s two.

JOHN
I was sure it Santo.

MARLENA
You were just as sure it was phoenix.

JOHN
Do you think you can do better?

MARLENA
Yes. I’d wait to talk to EJ and Tony.

JOHN
I can do it.

MARLENA
Try his mother’s name.

JOHN
Why?

MARLENA
(Standing and walking to the desk)
Look around. He built a shrine to her.

JOHN
Stefano isn’t that sentimental.

MARLENA
That’s one thing that hasn’t changed. You’re still stubborn.

JOHN
I prefer tenacious.

MARLENA
Same thing.

JOHN
Mine sounds better.

MARLENA
Fine.
(Pulling off one of the scrapbooks)
Do what you want? But don’t complain later.

JOHN
Me complain?

Astonished, Marlena takes the scrapbook back to the chair and opens it up.

I never complain. I express my displeasure in a clear, concise manor.

MARLENA
(Turning the pages)
Keep telling yourself that. One of us will start to believe it.
CUT

INT: FRONT HALLWAY TO STANLEY AND MARIE’S HOUSE: NIGHT
EJ, Stanley and Martin stand by the fire place. In his early twenties Martin is dressed in jeans and a t-shirt. He looks more like a college student than an ordained minister and township clerk. EJ is dressed in a late 60’s black suit that was better suited for a high school prom. It fits; however, the pants are about three inches too short.

MARTIN
It’s a good thing you called when you did. Cheryl and I were just getting ready to leave for Chicago. We have Cubbie tickets They have a double header at Wrigley tomorrow.

STANLEY
Love the field.

MARTIN
Don’t even go there.

EJ
Ava and I are very grateful.

MARTIN
I didn’t have much choice. Marie called Cheryl.

STANLEY
Translation. They thought it was romantic and Cheryl didn’t give him a choice.

MARTIN
Exactly. No wedding. No Wrigley.

EJ
I’m sorry.

MARTIN
Don’t worry about it. Do you have a ring?

EJ
No.

MARTIN
Marie didn’t think you would. We stopped on the way here.
(Pulling a ring out pocket)
It‘s nice, but nothing fancy. We‘ll settle up later. Cheryl picked a bouquet from our garden. She also called the Staninski’s in town. They have a bed and breakfast. Pat is holding a room for the two of you. If you don‘t have other plans, give her a call and she’ll spiffy it up for a romantic honeymoon night.

EJ
I don’t know what to say.

STANLEY
Mayfield may just a little county place. But know the true meaning of friendship and family.

CHERYL
(Off camera)
We’re ready.

MARTIN
Okay. We’re starting the music.

Stanley goes to his desktop computer. With a click of the mouse, the wedding march begins. Quickly, he returns to EJ’s side. Wearing a sundress, Cheryl walks down the stairs ahead of Ava. Ava follows, the train flowing behind her. She stumbles on the last step and falls. EJ runs to her, helping her up.

EJ
Are you okay?

AVA
As long as I’m with you, I won’t be anything else.

EJ
Always and forever.

With Cheryl in the lead, they walk into the living room. Ava hands her the bouquet and Stanley mutes the music.

We are gathered here to legalize the bond that EJ DiMera and Ava Vitali already have created in their hearts and their souls. Their paths briefly led each other in different directions, yet their souls longed for the love they found in each other. Although they were separated, they were never truly parted. The fates, seeing the longing their hearts, brought them back to each other to rekindle the love and passion that will last all the days of their lives.

MERGING OF SCENES WITH INT: CHAZ ROUGE: NIGHT
Doug is singing “My Romance/You‘re Nearer” to the crowded dining room. Roman and Alyssa sit at a dinner table. Roman smiles at her. Alyssa smiles back. Julie walks around towards the side of the stage to stand just outside the spotlight. Philip talks with Morgan. He looks up at Chloe and smiles at her.

INT: STANLEY AND MARIE’S LIVING ROOM: NIGHT
Doug sings as a voice over. Martin continues with the ceremony. EJ and Ava take each other hands. Martin blesses the rings and gives one to EJ. He slips it on Ava’s finger and kisses it. Martin gives the second to Ava, who puts it on EJ’s finger. Their fingers intertwine.

INT: CHEZ ROUGE: NIGHT
Doug sings slowly moving in Julie’s direction. He extends his hand and she takes it; he pulls her on the stage, singing directly to her. He finishes the song and he kisses her.

At the same time, EJ and Ava kiss.
FADE
INT: CHEZ ROUGE: NIGHT
The crowd applauds.

DOUG
(To the audience)
Oh, you all still here.

JULIE
We are on the stage.

Crowd laughs.

DOUG
I can’t see anyone but you fair lady.

JULIE
Yes, that may be true my darling. But they can definitely see us.

DOUG
Okay, in that case. Chloe would you pretty please come up and sing. So I can take this beautiful woman in the moonlight.

CHLOE
(Walking up)
I would love to.

JULIE
Albert, there as been a little change. Chloe is going to be singing your friend, Suz Tyler-McPhee’s song.

ALBERT
She is?

CHLOE
I’ll do the other one second.

Julie and Doug leave the stage, walking toward the balcony.

ALBERT
Okay by me.

DOUG
What was that all about?

Albert is seen talking to the other musicians.

JULIE
Never mind. Didn’t you promise me moonlight?

The music starts and Chloe sings Voodoo Mamma copy righted and used with the permission of Tyler-McPhee.

Well, I stumbled on a letter
To my man in the mail,
The contents of the letter
Turned my face all white and pale.
It was written on some paper
That smelled of cheap perfume,
From some low-rent kind of woman.
Guess I better get my broom.

DOUG
What’s that--

Julie passionately kisses him and walks out on the balcony. He looks to the stage then a the doorway.

Who cares?

Doug follows her. Chloe sings from the stage. Morgan and Philip don’t seem to notice. Still singing, Chloe steps off the stage and weaves through the tables; the spotlight follows her.


And go see Mamma
Yeaaaa, Voodoo Mamma.
Keep away from my man,
Mamma do her voodoo on you.

My Mamma lives out in the swamp
In a spooky little shack,
Lotta of folk will try to find her,
Not a lot will make it back.
I said, ‘Mamma, what do I do?
Some woman wants many man.’
Mamma sprinkled something on the note,
Then placed it in my hand.

That’s my Mamma,
Mamma do her Voodoo on you.

Mamma said, ‘A spell has been cast,
And it carries her name.
With every thought of your man
More weight she will gain.
Just a pound or two at first,
We’ll give her a little chance,
But if she persists by noon
She won’t fit in her pants!’

Yea that’s my Mamma,
Mamma do her Voodoo on you.

Mamma said, ‘If she keeps it up
That girl will be aghast,
When she looks in the mirror
And see she’s grown a thick mustache.
Well, her slender thighs will swell
And her ample breasts will sag.
Well, honey it won’t take long
To turn that woman into a hag.

That’s my Mamma,
Mamma do her Voodoo on you.

Chloe works her to where Philip and Morgan are standing. They notice her. Chloe steps between them and sings to Morgan. Philip is both embarrassed and flattered. He doesn’t move. However, Morgan backs away. Chloe follows.

Mamma said, ‘honey wait til midnight,
When the moon is full and bright.
Then light this note on fire,
You know, the flames will make it right.’
She spun around in circles.
Arms raised in the moon’s new light.
Then she danced a little dance and
Disappeared into the night.


Morgan leaves. Chloe returns to Philip.

That’s my Mamma,
Mamma do her Voodoo on you.

Now, women be forewarned
If you mess with a married man,
You better give him up
You know he’s stolen contraband.
Well, I wouldn’t be so sure,
As if it were routine
He may just have a mother-in-law
Like my Mamma, the Voodoo Queen.

Well, that’s my Mamma,
Yeaaaaah, Voodoo Mamma.
Keep away from my man,
Mamma do her Voodoo on you.

The song ends. Chloe quickly kisses Philip and returns to the stage.

ROMAN
What’s that all about?

ALYSSA
Looks like she is laying claiming what’s hers.

ROMAN
They’re not married.

ALYSSA
Not yet.

ROMAN
You sound as if you approve.

ALYSSA
I do.

ROMAN
(Teasing)
Now you’re scaring me.

ALYSSA
(Touching his hand)
There is nothing wrong with telling the world, this is mind-you can’t have.

ROMAN
(Placing his hand on top of hers)
You’re right. There is nothing wrong with that.
CUT

INT: STEFANO’S STUDY: NIGHT
Frustrated, John stares at the computer screen. Marlena as fallen asleep on the couch. Several of the scrapbooks have been stacked on the table. He looks up and smiles. He walks around the couch and drapes the throw over her. Leaning over, he kisses her cheek. Marlena wakes and turns her head so that their lips touch.

MARLENA
(Sleepily)
John.

Taking his hand, she pulls him closer to her. John slides over the back of the couch and snuggles behind her. They fit together perfectly.

I love you.

Marlena falls back to sleep. John momentarily watches her before he too starts to doze off. The door knob turns; the door slowly opens
CUT

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Effective Online Marketing Tool



Book Trailer: An Effective Promotional and Marketing Tool
By
Theresa Chaze



Book trailers are more than images set to music, nor do they just a recap of the book synopsis. In fact, they are an effect promotional tool that will create interest by going beyond the synopsis to the "heart of the book. Although, book trailers are considered promotional material, they are in reality an advertisement. The difference lies in the length and basic format.

Most book trailers are much longer than most conventional ads, running 1-5 minutes long, while currently most broadcast ad are 30 seconds. It would be too costly to run longer ads in prime time on the local or national level. Even well know writers such as Stephen King, only run 15 second national ads. They are quick in-out ad, which do little more than announce a new book However, book trailers are designed for the internet, where the venues are either free or low cost. Length is not a consideration; therefore, they can be more detailed both in content and style. The quality both in the writing and production can make the trailer an asset or a major liability. Being clever and unique can create a buzz about the trailer, which will in turn increase sales. However, if the trailer is merely random images set to music, it will make the author look amateurish.

The message has to do more than recap the synopsis. It has to be in itself a creative work that creates layers of interest. Whether as text or a voiceover, the message needs to tantalize the readers into buying the book. In the case of fiction, the trailer is a vignette with a beginning and middle, but the end is left hanging as a question. Its purpose is to introduce the lead characters and plot, while building up the conflict of the story, so that the readers will want to answer the question--what happens next? In non-fiction, most books have more of a targeted audience. The text will want not only to provide the author’s credentials, but also put forth her or his thesis, while hinting why it is different from ever other expert in the field. Both formats will want to provide reviews, ordering information, and run credits back to any person or site that provided resources for the trailer.


Multi-sensory devices such as videos, still pictures and voiceovers, all coordinated with music as the video trailer create layers of information that combine into a single effective ad. The video transitions and effects have to be appropriate for the message and match the audio portion of the piece. Both can create a sense of movement in still photographs, making them look more movie like. The availability of digit cameras makes adding live action shots easy and inexpensive. In addition, there are sites on the net that inexpensively offer video clips. There are also sites that music can be download for free, if they are given credit and a link back. The music needs to create a sense of the book beyond the words. It can add drama, intensity or humor depending the style of the music. It is just one more way to enhance the feel and add depth to the trailer.

By coordinating the whole package to roll out in a logical, concise format, the trailer becomes a thought provoking, interest creating marketing tool. However, if written and produced well, it doesn’t have to be elaborate or highly technical; sometimes the simple direct approach is the most effective, if done professionally and with creative thought.

I have produced the following trailers not no only for my books, but for others authors as well. I am available for hire by emailing: Tirgana (at) yahoo (dot) com.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Writing, Publishing, Marketing Tips Ebook: Free Listing of Independent Bookstores

Authors: A New Ebook on Writing and Marketing Your Book


From Blank Page to Book Shelves--How to Successfully Create and Market Your Book is a new ebook, which shares writing tips, and marketing strategies, which will make your publishing experience more successful. The marketing information includes how to effectively use SEO keywords in press releases, chose a publisher and low cost to free promotional options, while sharing writing tips.

The first part of the ebook gives basic writing tips. From plot organization to creating conflicts, this ebook help authors understand the basic structure of both short stories and novels. In addition, there are chapters on characterization and sensory writing, which help the authors draw in their readers into a multi-dimensional reading experience.

The second part of the book includes the importance of protecting the rights of the author, not only by copyrighting the work, but choosing the proper publishing venue. Safeguarding a work can be done easily and inexpensively; if done properly it insures that it will be legally protected. Choosing the correct publishing format and publisher can also make or break a book’s opportunities to reach the reading public.

Marketing and Promotions is explained in the third part of the ebook. It describes how the publishing venue affects how a book can be best advertised not only to readers, but also to bookstore owners. In addition, it lists low cost or free promotional ideas that can be used both on and offline. Search Engine Optimization makes press releases more effective; using the correct key words in the proper format will efficiently attract the attention of the search engines, thereby raising the article or site higher in the rankings and drawing more traffic to it.

From Blank Page to Book Shelves--How to Successfully Create and Market Your Book can’t guarantee to place an authors on the New York Times best seller‘s list; however, it will help improve their writing skills and understanding of the business end of the industry. Currently, this ebook is available at www.theresachaze.com for $7.00 or through the Amazon Kindle Program
Click here to go to Theresa Chaze's Amazon Page

Leave a comment on this posting, including your email address, and receive a free PDF copy of over 2000 independent bookstores.

Free Tarot Reading: The Energy Reading for the week of August 24, 2009




For the week of August 24, 2008, we will all be challenged in such a way that will promote the greatest amount of emotional and spiritual growth. The challenges will be unique yet follow the same pattern. How and what we learn will be in direct proportion to how willing we are to accept change both by receiving and knowing when to let go.

The Tarot card that represents the challenges is the ace of pentacles. Although most people think of pentacles as money, money is only one form of energy. The ace is saying that the new energy will be challenging. How we accept it? How we use it? How we release it? The image that I see is that of someone who had been holding a leash suddenly letting go and allowing the horses' training to be tested. Will they work as a team? Or will they run wild to self-destruction?

The Queen of cups represents the blessings. The feminine card represents not only our ability to receive, but also the unconditional loving force that has been protecting, providing and guiding us. It is her blessings that will create the miracles in our lives this week.

The end result is the four of swords. It is a reminder that if we don't take proper care of ourselves, emotionally, spiritually and physically, it will no longer be optional. It advises to trust and allow the blessings to arrive, instead of racing out to meet them or like a tomato that is picked too soon, the blessing simply will not be as sweet.

Religious Discrimination: Christians Cry Fowl




Religious Discrimination: Christians Cry Fowl


I was flipping through the channels when I came across what I thought was a documentary on religious discrimination; however, it didn't take long for me to discover that I was mistaken. Instead of a documentary, it was a half hour infomercial for the website Silencing Christians (http://www.silencingchristians.com/), which is a website that proclaims that Christians are having the civil rights violated. However, all their claims of harassment and discrimination spring from situations or events where they were prevented from inflicting their religion on others or when public funds were used to promote their particular faith.

The premise of the site is that Christians are being discriminated against by the government. It gave several examples of how their civil rights, including freedom of religions, free speech and the right to assemble, were violated. Their seven videos list such things as:

* Activists pushing tolerance to such an extreme that the Bible is being labeled hate speech.

How many people have been accosted on city streets or have their day interrupted by a knock at the door by someone trying to save their souls? Christians, like everyone who chooses to be believe or not believe, have the right to follow their own life path as they see fit. What they don’t have the right to do is inflict it on others. I have been told that it is the Christian doctrine to bring the teachings of Christ to others. That’s peachy keen jellybean. Go preach to the choir. No one else wants to hear it. You don’t have the right to tell others what their truth is or to force them to follow your spiritual path.

Hate speech is defined by Wikipedia as:

Hate speech is a term for speech intended to degrade, intimidate, or incite violence or prejudicial action against a person or group of people based on their race, gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language ability, moral or political views, socioeconomic class, occupation or appearance (such as height, weight, and hair color), mental capacity and any other distinction-liability. The term covers written as well as oral communication and some forms of behaviors in a public setting. It is also sometimes called antilocution and is the first point on Allport's scale, which measures prejudice in a society.

In the United States, the government is broadly forbidden by the First Amendment of the Constitution from restricting speech. Jurists generally understand this to mean that the government cannot regulate the content of speech, but that it can address the harmful effects of speech through laws such as those against defamation or incitement to riot.


When you degrade other faiths or lack of having a faith as being evil or spread lies about those following that path, you are guilty of hate speech. Every time you shout, “Thou shall not suffer a witch to live”, you are guilty of making a death threat, which is a felony and punishable by law.

* In Silencing the Christians” you’ll learn how this “sacred cow” of the liberal left only applies when it is being used to keep “Christ” out of school.

Schools are a place to learn the basic survival skills for life: reading, math, history, science, computer, etc. It is not a place of worship. The moral decay as you call it hasn’t been brought on by the removal from prayer from school. It’s not that simple. There are many reasons for the current chaos. The most important being that society is being force to deal with the violence and abuse that has been hidden within families. No longer are abusers able to safely violate their family members; instead, they seek targets outside the home. Lack of proper education--reading, math, science, etc--not religious teachings--leads to poverty, which in turn leads to violence, drug abuse and the many other social ills that Christians blame on the removal of prayer in school. The simple fact is that by creating an equal and balanced school system from coast to coast that provides the same resources and teaching quality, matter the social or economic structure of the area that the poverty and crime rates will decrease. In addition, the more education a girl receives the longer she will wait to have children as well as the number of children she will give birth to. However, this system is based on accurate, available information that is not based on the Bible, but on scientific and provable facts.

* Learn how legislation targets thought and freedom of speech that could make it illegal to believe in “Truth” or even quote the Bible.

The government has not made it illegal to believe in the Bible. It does however defend those who simply don’t want hear it. The only thing Christians have lost is the right to harass, bully, attack, defame, and forcefully convert others to their faith. Individuals have the right to believe or not believe, as they will as long it doesn’t harm or annoy another. This doesn’t included being offended by another following a different spiritual path. No matter what your doctrine states, you are not entitled to force it on other in word or deed.

* VA hospital neutralized its chapel by removing Christian symbols.
Military personal come in all sizes, shapes, ethic backgrounds and faiths, including those who have chosen to be religion-free. The VA and the branches of the military are extensions of the Federal Government, which is prohibited from establishing or enforcing religion. By making the chapel non-denominational, it is only complying with the Constitution. It doesn’t bar the doors to Christians, but establishes a safe haven for all who wish to seek spiritual solace. In 2007, Lady Liberty League along with other legal reform groups, sued and forced the VA to accept Pentacle as a religious symbol. No longer are Pagan and Wiccan soldiers deprived of their religious symbol on their memorial markers. It has changed nothing for Christians. Yet there are still those who cry foul as they are forced to share burial space with those of another religion.


* Lesbian couples sued a church for the right to hold a civil union ceremony.
This was part of the video I watched. New Jersey approved civil unions between same sexed couples; however, the dispute was over a publicly owned and operated area that was available to be rented by the public for events, including weddings. The women were denied access for their civil union ceremony and celebration afterwards. Even through the seaside pavilion received public funds, the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association refused to access to the couple, claiming the women’s Constitutional rights weren’t being breached. The Association was sued and lost in federal court. They were given the choice of accepting civil unions along with weddings or to no longer hold any religious ceremonies at the location. Their bigotry became the deciding factor and weddings were banned.


* A mother was told reading from the Bible to her son's class is against the law.
A woman attempted to read the Bible to her son’s Kindergarten class and was told that it was against the law to promote religion in a pubic school. She claims that the school told her she could read a book about witches instead; however, the book was not named, which means the school could have suggested Harry Potter. If she wants to read the Bible to children, she should go to her church and teach a Bible class. Public schools are not the place to promote religion. Schools are a place of learning, not worship. By reading the passage, she inflicted her beliefs on the children, who were of diverse beliefs and were too young to stand up for themselves. In fact, she was forcefully indoctrinating the other children of the class, which violated their civil rights. If the situation had been reversed, with a Pagan, Jew, or Muslim preaching their doctrine, people like her would be the first to protest. Yet, she saw nothing wrong with forcing her beliefs on others.

* A Canadian pastor faced a hate crimes tribunal for writing a letter to his local newspaper.
As a result of Dr. Darren E. Lund’s complaint to the Human Rights Panel of Alberta, they charged Stephan Boissoin, director of the Concern Christian Coalition with a hate speech/discrimination based on sexual preference after he published a letter to the editor titled, “Homosexual Agenda Wicked.” Lund claimed that Boissoin’s willful published ideas, which fostered and provoked violence and intimidation based on sexual preference. Shortly after the initial publication of the letter to the editor, a 17 year old was attacked by a man who he thought he was gay. In Boissoin’s own words:

Homosexual Agenda Wicked

June 17, 2002

The following is not intended for those who are suffering from an unwanted sexual identity crisis. For you, I have understanding, care, compassion and tolerance. I sympathize with you and offer you my love and fellowship. I prayerfully beseech you to seek help, and I assure you that your present enslavement to homosexuality can be remedied. Many outspoken, former homosexuals are free today.

Instead, this is aimed precisely at every individual that in any way supports the homosexual machine that has been mercilessly gaining ground in our society since the 1960s. I cannot pity you any longer and remain inactive. You have caused far too much damage.

My banner has now been raised and war has been declared so as to defend the precious sanctity of our innocent children and youth, that you so eagerly toil, day and night, to consume. With me stand the greatest weapons that you have encountered to date - God and the "Moral Majority." Know this, we will defeat you, then heal the damage that you have caused. Modern society has become dispassionate to the cause of righteousness. Many people are so apathetic and desensitized today that they cannot even accurately define the term "morality."

The masses have dug in and continue to excuse their failure to stand against horrendous atrocities such as the aggressive propagation of homo- and bisexuality. Inexcusable justifications such as, "I'm just not sure where the truth lies," or "If they don't affect me then I don't care what they do," abound from the lips of the quantifiable majority.

Face the facts, it is affecting you. Like it or not, every professing heterosexual is have their future aggressively chopped at the roots.

Edmund Burke's observation that, "All that is required for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing," has been confirmed time and time again. From kindergarten class on, our children, your grandchildren are being strategically targeted, psychologically abused and brainwashed by homosexual and pro-homosexual educators.

Our children are being victimized by repugnant and premeditated strategies, aimed at desensitizing and eventually recruiting our young into their camps. Think about it, children as young as five and six years of age are being subjected to psychologically and physiologically damaging pro-homosexual literature and guidance in the public school system; all under the fraudulent guise of equal rights.

Your children are being warped into believing that same-sex families are acceptable; that men kissing men is appropriate.

Your teenagers are being instructed on how to perform so-called safe same gender oral and anal sex and at the same time being told that it is normal, natural and even productive. Will your child be the next victim that tests homosexuality positive?

Come on people, wake up! It's time to stand together and take whatever steps are necessary to reverse the wickedness that our lethargy has authorized to spawn. Where homosexuality flourishes, all manner of wickedness abounds.

Regardless of what you hear, the militant homosexual agenda isn't rooted in protecting homosexuals from "gay bashing." The agenda is clearly about homosexual activists that include, teachers, politicians, lawyers, Supreme Court judges, and God forbid, even so-called ministers, who are all determined to gain complete equality in our nation and even worse, our world.

Don't allow yourself to be deceived any longer. These activists are not morally upright citizens, concerned about the best interests of our society. They are perverse, self-centered and morally deprived individuals who are spreading their psychological disease into every area of our lives. Homosexual rights activists and those that defend them, are just as immoral as the pedophiles, drug dealers and pimps that plague our communities.

The homosexual agenda is not gaining ground because it is morally backed. It is gaining ground simply because you, Mr. and Mrs. Heterosexual, do nothing to stop it. It is only a matter of time before some of these morally bankrupt individuals such as those involved with NAMBLA, the North American Man/Boy Lovers Association, will achieve their goal to have sexual relations with children and assert that it is a matter of free choice and claim that we are intolerant bigots not to accept it.

If you are reading this and think that this is alarmist, then I simply ask you this: how bad do things have to become before you will get involved? It's time to start taking back what the enemy has taken from you. The safety and future of our children is at stake.

Rev Stephen Boissoin

In his letter, he inaccurately links homosexuality with child abuse and molestation, which is a proven falsehood. He makes blanket statements with out basis on the morality of individuals based on their sexual orientation, while fostering fear and violence against homosexuals. His message is that they are lurking around every corner, waiting to abuse your children, so parents you need to get them before they kidnap and rape your child. It was a blatant doctrine of hate, bigotry and violence.

The documentation of the case can be read at: http://www.albertahumanrights.ab.ca/LundDarren113007Pa.pdf

Although, Boissoin has every right to believe and say what he believes, he also must be held responsible for the harm that comes from it. His words were no different that if he has screamed fire in a crowd theatre and someone was trampled as the people rushed to escape. His words led to harm; he needed to be held responsible.

I am totally against censorship: however, I am even more opposed to people sticking their noses into other people's business uninvited. How a people chooses to live or what they believe is no one else's concern. Yet the Christians who are so quick to cry fowl and raise the Constitutionality are the same ones who violate others' civil rights. Each of us have the rights to our own beliefs and lifestyle, but each of our rights end at the tip of our nose. The space between us is neutral safety zone that should not be invaded. Christians if you want other to respect your civil rights, it is time for you to respect others’ rights.


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Monday, August 25, 2008

Kitty Dreams

Kitty Dreams
By
Theresa Chaze

Snuggled on the back of the over stuff chair,
comfortably snoozing in the sun.
Your ear twitches.
Your paw curls, but just end.
Your nose twitches.
The tip of your tail quivers, but just a bit.
What is that you dream?
Where does your magical slumber lead you?
Do you romp with your new siblings or chase the errant bug.
Or are you remember the time before you came to me?
The time of hunger.
The time of cold.
The time of fearing the dark night.
I remember that finding you cold and wet in the dark.
My heart wept to see someone so young, alone and toss out as trash.
You stretch.
Your eyes open.
You lick your lips and yawn.
Seeing me you purr and slip back into your kitty dream.
No more shall you hide in the shadows or feel the pangs of hunger.
Here in my arms you will always be safe.
Dream my little one.
Momma is here.
No longer need you fear.
No longer need you hunger.
No longer are you alone.

Affirmations




Affirmations
By
Theresa Chaze



Affirmations are more than just new age mumbo jumbo. They are declarations or assertions of truth that a person wishes to create. They can be either positive or negative depending on how a person focuses their attention. Affirmations are the repetitive focusing of the mind, will and spiritual energy on a specific outcome.

However, not all affirmations are formal or conscious. Sometimes the most powerful are the ones that are created when a person is daydreaming. Repetition is what energized the statements and clarifies the desire in the person’s mind. Whatever a person repeatedly thinks, feels or fantasizes about becomes a personal affirmation.

Frequently used for healing or manifestation, affirmations focus the person's energy on the results they would like to achieve. The simpler and more direct the statement is, the more effective it will be. A popular one for prosperity is "Money comes to me quickly, easily and frequently." It is short, sweet and to the point. By focusing on what you want instead of what you are trying to eliminate, you open the door for financial prosperity to enter your life. Many people put their energy in the form of worry into their bills; they don’t realize they are asking for more of the same. The universe is more than willing to provide anything we ask for, we just have to know how to ask. In the case of illness, instead of asking for the disease to disappear, you should put your energy into being healthy and strong. As an example: “In every way and every day, I become healthier and stronger.”

However, negative thoughts and feelings can just as easily diminish the positive outcome if the person chooses to put energy into their fears and doubts. By focusing on a negative outcome, you can delay or even prevent yourself from receiving the blessing you are asking for. It takes practice and control to be able to release past negative behaviors and open the doors to the miracles life has to offer.

Telecommuting Jobs or Home-based Business:

Telecommuting Jobs or Home-based Business:
The waves of the Future
By
Theresa Chaze


Working from home is no longer stuffing envelops or assembling gadgets in get rich quick schemes. Although these opportunities are lurking in mass on the net, most people see them for what they are and are avoiding them. Instead, they are using their talents and skills to start their own companies, which not only give them substantial incomes and job security, but also give them the freedom to work where and when they wish. Not only are more people than ever are creating home based business, but Fortune 500 companies are seeing the advantages of creating telecommuting jobs.

Home based businesses are no longer just sidelines or hobbies to bring in extra income. They are rapidly becoming successful full time jobs. No longer do parents have to seek daycare for their children or worry about the affects their long working hours are having on them. Instead, they remain the primary care givers while still making a substantial living. From dog sitting to wood working, people are using their talents and interests as income producing opportunities. One Mississippi woman used her grandmother’s recipes to create a home based business, which started as a way to keep the electricity on; within five years, she became a local phenomenon as her products where not only sold online but were on the shelves coast to coast. Many people are also taking their professional experience and become consults to those companies who need the services, but not enough to higher a full time staff person. Whether accounting, computer technologies, or the many other professions, more people are choosing to walk their own path and retain control over their own destiny.

In 2003, the Dieringer Research Group conducted a survey for the American Interactive Group. The results showed that 4.4 million people worked at least one day from their home or out of the office; by 2004, that number rose to 8.1 million. In 2005, Forbes.com reported there were 22.2 million people who worked outside the company office at least one day a week. With more major companies finding the financial advantages of telecommuting workers, more people are optioning out of going into the workplace and creating their own home office with a view. Allowing employees to telecommute has cut down on absenteeism and increased productivity, while cutting costs. No longer are large central offices required to run a productive company.

New technologies has opened the door to new locations. Inside or out, the home office is limited only by the individual’s imagination. Wireless internet systems allow access to the world wide web from any where in or around the home, while satellite systems keep you connected any where from the beach to mountain tops. Cell phones and cordless phones make communication equally efficient from multiple locations. With the increasing efficiency of batteries and more mobile alternative energy sources, laptops are not only effective tools, but are highly mobile. With the same technical capacity of a desktop, the laptop enables the user to carry their business in a brief case across the country or out into the yard.

It is easier than every before for the individual to follow their bliss while still remaining financially independent. Whether starting their own business or telecommuting, working from home is rapidly becoming the current trend. It has given many the financial independence and security they desire, while increasing their job satisfaction.

Writing to Activate the Readers Imagination




Writing to Activate the Readers Imagination
By
Theresa Chaze

Although novels are written in two dimensional black and white, the story actually happens in the four dimensional realms of the reader‘s mind. Multi-sensory books are the ones that become the most successful. Capturing your reader's imagination, by helping them to be able to see, hear, smell and feel every aspect of your story draws them and helps them experience the story through the characters.

Sight involves more than what the characters see or don’t see. It involves the subtle shades of color, shape, dimension and distance. A writer could write about “a new green leaf” or just as easily write that the “slow unfurling of the heart shaped leaf, contrasted against the darker older foliage of the plant.” Giving details doesn’t necessarily mean a long string of adjectives or adverbs, but a creative use of description that shows instead of tells.

Hearing is the most versatile of the senses. Sound or the lack of sound can also add to the story’s dept. What the character hears can extend her or his awareness beyond the immediate environment. Sound’s ability to travel great distances, allows remote action to be brought into a scene without disrupting the point of view. A wolf howling from somewhere in the night will be heard both in and out of the cabin. The characters inside don’t have to see it to know that the wolf lurks some where outside their door.

Touch can be experienced as a caress or a punch along with everything in between. However, touch is more than skin on skin, but it also includes any contact that is important to the story. The soft fur of cat rubbing against the character’s leg feels different than a skunk brushing passed while trying to escape. In the same way, the rough scales of an alligator feel different than the bark of a tree, so are reactions the images elicit in the reader.

The sense of taste is the most personal and individual. What one person finds appealing, another could just as easily find repulsive. How the character reacts will further define her or him. Most people are aware of the more common foods and drinks. If an author introduces something out of the ordinary, it is simple to you use comparisons to give the reader a sense of the taste and texture.

The sense of smells is the most effective way to activate memories and emotions. The two areas of the brain are closely related in location and synaptic connection. Using odors, either pleasant or unpleasant, is the fastest way to get a response out of the character in such a way that the reader will be able to relate.

Perception or intuition is the sixth sense that is frequently over looked by writers. This is not a reference to ESP or psychic gifts, but how a character sees or judges her or his world and everything in it. By showing how the character perceives her/himself and others, you define her or him without long descriptive sentences. The best example is a character that is afraid of other people; she or he may be paranoid or someone might actually be out to get her or him. By contrasting the perceptions with the reactions of the other characters, the writer reveals more about the personality and the inner motivation of the character.


In addition, similes, allegories and contrasting comparisons can add texture and set the mood. Sarah was as graceful as a bird is an example of simile. Like Amazon warriors of old, she marched into the room would be an allegory. While looking dapper and smart in his new suit, Dan smelled like down wind of a pig farm would be a contrasting comparison. All three examples give added information about the character in a pro-active way that allows the reader to visualize the character.

It is unusual for one sense to be used alone. More often than not, they are combined to give layers of images and sensations. Sight and hearing are frequently combined. A character hears a noise and starts looking for the source or a character smells something wonderful and decides to taste what is in the pot. By coalescing the senses, the author creates a four dimensional world on a two dimensional medium. It makes the characters and their environment more real and relatable for the reader, which in turn makes the novel more popular.

From Blank Page to Book Shelves contains more writing tips as well as publishing and marketing strategies. To buy this informative ebook go to www.theresachaze.com

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Alternative Days of Our Lives Storyline Part 26

EXT: FIELD: EVENING
A brilliant sunset is the backdrop EJ and Ava are slowly riding back to the barn. Both are lost in thought. They stop just beyond the pet cemetery. The horses fuss.

EJ
I don't want go back.

AVA
Me either.

EJ
Thank you for this beautiful dream.

AVA
It doesn't have to be a dream.

EJ
Ava, you could very well go to prison for a long time.

AVA
It's not going to happen.

EJ
I can't guarantee that.

AVA
My Daddy can. It's already taken care of.

EJ
Then why did he ask me to represent you?

AVA
He wanted to make up for backing down to Stefano.

EJ
Three people died--

AVA
They weren't suppose to. No one was supposed to get hurt.

EJ
They're still dead.

AVA
I know. I truly wish I could change that. But I can't. I thought Patch-Steve would make my heart whole. He couldn't. He wasn't the missing piece. You were. Steve was just a band-aid. It was only after Patch disappeared did Daddy realize that he had done to me. He went to Stefano to try to fix it. He told Daddy that if we did anything to interfere with his plans that he would find a special use for me.

EJ
I didn't know that.

AVA
You wouldn't. He didn't tell me until he learned you were here and Stefano was incapacitated. If Stefano had been alive and well, he would have taken me out of the country that night. I know Daddy has done a lot of terrible things, but your father scared him.

EJ
He as that affect on people.

AVA
EJ, you don’t understand. Daddy said he would have killed me himself before he let Stefano put me in his album di ritagli di coppa

EJ
His what?

AVA
A scrapbook of his trophies.

EJ
I know what it means. Why would he put you in there?

AVA
It is where he puts remembrances of all the people he owns. Do you think he will ever wake up?

EJ
I don’t know. The doctors don’t think so.

AVA
What do you think?

EJ
I think- I think if anyone could it would be him.

AVA
I want to get married.

EJ
We are. Remember the whole on knee bit. If you need a reminder...

EJ pulls the guides his horse closer to hers. Leaning over, he passionately kisses her.

Remember?

AVA
Vaguely.

He kisses her again half pulling her on to his horse. Ava eagerly responds, but suddenly pulls away.

I’m afraid. I have a bad feeling.

EJ
You feel good to me.

AVA
I’m afraid it won’t last. It’s like feeling I had just before my mother died.
(Desperately)
Marry me.

EJ
We will.

AVA
Today. Let’s fly to Vegas.

EJ
You can’t leave the state. You’ll forfeit your bond. Besides, you always dreamed of a big wedding. With your father walking you down the isle.

AVA
I don’t care about any of that. I just don’t want to loose you again.

EJ
You won’t.

AVA
Please EJ. Marry me now.

EJ
There is a 24-hour wait for the license. We could get the license tomorrow.

AVA
And married the next day.

EJ kisses her.
CUT

INT: DIMERA MANSION: EVENING
John and Marlena enter.

JOHN
(Yelling)
Rolf! Rofl!

MARLENA
He’s in another room. Not dead.

JOHN
The louder I yell, the faster he runs.

Rolf runs in from the back of the house.

He’s fun to watch.

MARLENA
That’s mean.

JOHN
Yes, it is.

ROLF
Yes, Sir.

JOHN
(Walking into the study)
Blondie, want a drink.

Marlena and Rolf watch him disappear into the study.
CUT

INT: DIMERA STUDY: EVENING
John pours himself a drink.

JOHN
Rolf!

ROLF
(Walking in)
I’m right here.

Marlena follows as far as the door.

JOHN
Blondie, want a drink.

MARLENA
I’m not a dog to be ordered about.

JOHN
Didn’t think you were. So you don’t want a drink?

MARLENA
No, thank you.

JOHN
Okay doke. Rolf, Marlena and I have some questions for you. It would behoove you to answer them quickly and honestly.

ROLF
I’ll do my best.

JOHN
Do better.

MARLENA
(Walking in)
We need to know who was in that room.

ROLF
I don’t know.

JOHN
I don’t believe you.

MARLENA
Neither do I.

ROLF
It’s the truth. The only one who knows all Stefano’s secrets is Stefano. It’s the way he kept control. None of the division knew about the others. He ran is organization like an octopus. He was the center controlling the hundreds of arms. In this case, Stefano, Celeste and three others knew. One of those are dead. The other two I don’t know.

JOHN
I have a fairly good idea of what Stefano was into.

ROLF
Respectfully you don’t.

JOHN
I’ve gone through everything.

ROLF
Have you?

JOHN
Are you saying that I haven’t?

MARLENA
Rolf, is there more?

ROLF
There is always more.

JOHN
You didn’t tell me, why?

ROLF
You didn’t ask.

JOHN
Well?

ROLF
Well, what?

JOHN
Is there more?

ROLF
Yes.


MARLENA
Where is it?

ROLF
(Uncomfortable)
I don’t know if I should--

JOHN
Rolfie, you’re testing my patience.

ROLF
In his study.

JOHN
This is the study.

ROLF
Not so much.

MARLENA
Take us there.

JOHN
Now.

ROLF
Very well. God protect me if Stefano every wakes up.

JOHN
Lie to me and you won’t have to worry about Stefano. Lead the way.

Shaking his head, Rolf leads them out of the study.
CUT

INT: HOSPITAL ROOM: EVENING
Lucas is lying asleep in the bed. Sami paces the room, while talking on the phone.

SAMI
Thanks, Hope. Are you sure you don’t mind? He was awake a little while ago. I will. But pain meds are keeping him groggy. He might not remember much until morning. They are letting me stay just a few minutes after visiting hours.

LUCAS
(Waking up)
Sami?

SAMI
Lucas is awake again. I’ll pick up the twins in an hour, two the most. Thanks Hope.
(Going the bed)
You’re awake. How do you feel?

LUCAS
(Painful)
I hurt. My side.
(Reaching over he finds the drain tube)

SAMI
(Gently taking his hand)
It a drain. You had surgery. Do you remember what happened?

LUCAS
Sort of. I remember the guard from Statesville. Then just pieces.

SAMI
You’re safe now.

LUCAS
What about Chloe and Philip?

SAMI
They are both fine. Bo arranged for a guard on your door. He’s someone that he trusts.

LUCAS
I had the strangest dream. You told me that Johnny was my son.

SAMI
He is Lucas. That is what I wanted to tell you.

LUCAS
How?

SAMI
I had Lexi run another test in secret. She also had Abe run it through the police lab. It’s true. You are Johnny’s father.

LUCAS
(Sleepily)
Does EJ know?

SAMI
He’s out of our lives.

LUCAS
(Touching her cheek)
Thank you.

SAMI
You’re welcome. But you have to get better. You have diaper duty.

LUCAS
Potty training here we come.

Lucas falls asleep. Sami tenderly kisses his lips.
CUT

INT: BARN: EVENING
Ava is taking the saddle off her horse. EJ has already taken the saddle of his; he is unbuckling the bridle.

EJ
Are you sure you don’t want me to help you?

STANLEY
(Walking in)
I thought you were going to stay out all night.

AVA
Weren’t you going to see Marie?

STANLEY
(Taking the saddle from her)
Already back. She’s happy about the two of you. She wants me to weasel an invitation to the wedding.

EJ
What are you doing tomorrow?

STANLEY
Tomorrow. I didn’t think you had a license.

EJ
We don’t.

AVA
I’m superstitious.

STANLEY
Nothing wrong with that.

AVA
I wanted to fly to Vegas and get married tonight.

STANLEY
It can’t be the plane fare.

EJ
There are legal issues.

AVA
I just have the feeling that if we don’t get married now, we never will.

STANLEY
After living with Marie all these years, I’ve learned to trust women’s intuition. Let me make a call.

Stanley walks into the tack room.

EJ
I’ll pick you up first thing in the morning to get the license. Then we can go out for breakfast.

AVA
Don’t we have to get a blood test or something?

EJ
Not in this state. But we both have to go with ID.
(Kissing her)
Where in the state do you want to honeymoon?

AVA
In bed.

EJ
Of course. But don’t you want to do something special?

AVA
Oh, I guarantee it will be special.

EJ
That’s a given.

STANLEY
(Walking out)
Okay. Let’s go.

EJ
Go where?

STANLEY
The courthouse. Martin is meeting us there. That is if you don’t mind being married in Grant County instead of Salem. But we have to go now. He has plans for later this evening.

AVA
I don’t mind not having the dress or my daddy here, but I smell like horse.

EJ
So do I.

STANLEY
I wasn’t going to mention it. If you hurry, you can take a shower.

AVA
But my clothes--

STANLEY
Let me worry about that. Now bustle to the house

EJ
Bustle?

STANLEY
(Taking the reigns)
Get moving kid or go to your wedding smelling like a horse. There is a shower in the bathroom in the main hallway. EJ use that one. Ava, you can use the one off Marie and my bedroom.
CUT

INT: STEFANO’S STUDY: EVENING
The room is dark.

ROLF
(Off camera)
I still don’t feel comfortable doing this.

JOHN
(Off camera)
Unlock the door or someone will be locking a door on you.

ROLF
(Off camera)
Very well.

The lock clicks. The door opens. Rolf walks in and turns on the light. It is a room over looks the backyard of the mansion. The sunset can be seen fading in the western sky. The room contains a combination of Roman and Egyptian art, while the furniture is Colonial. The color scheme is dark blues and purples that could be best described as regal. There are dark red sashes hanging around the windows and the door. On either side of the door is a candle opera with a red candle that had been partially burned. Yet, instead of being foreboding, it has a comfortable feel to it. There is a computer on the desk along with a multi-line phone. The shelves are filled with old books, pictures of his parents and his children. John and Marlena follow.

JOHN
Now this is my kind of room.

MARLENA
(Picking up one of the framed baby picture off the table)
It makes him seem almost human.

ROLF
He can be. He loved his mother dearly. He had few pictures of her. That one is his favorite. He had a copy made for every one of his homes. No matter which one he slept in he would always light a candle to her before retiring for the night.

JOHN
Where’s the information about the woman in the room?

ROLF
I still don’t know.

JOHN
(Making himself comfortable behind the desk)
Then why didn’t you want us to open the west wing.

ROLF
I was following Stefano’s orders.

MARLENA
Where would you start looking?

JOHN
(Turning on the computer)
What’s the password?

ROLF
I don’t know to both your questions.

JOHN
You not being very helpful. Should I start questioning your loyalty?

ROLF
Do what you will. I can’t tell you what I don’t know.

MARLENA
Don’t know or won’t say?

ROLF
Don’t know.

MARLENA
Will you help us search?

ROLF
Would you trust me not to try to hide something?

MARLENA
Good point.

ROLF
(Backing out of the room)
Then I will leave you to it.

JOHN
(Pulling a photograph album off the shelf)
Wait. Why are there so many photo albums?

ROLF
They aren’t important. Stefano like to take pictures.

JOHN
Pictures?

ROLF
Of people and places he found interesting. He didn’t have much of an eye for the camera.

MARLENA
Maybe the there is a picture of her.

ROLF
Do you know what she looks like?

MARLENA
Petite with dark hair.

ROLF
I’m sure you find several hundred of those. Some of them might even be clear enough to see the faces and not have Stefano’s finger in the picture.

JOHN
(Putting the album back)
Fine. He was a lousy photographer. What’s the password on the computer?

ROLF
I still don’t know. The third wrong guess fries the hard drive.

MARLENA
That’s just great.

JOHN
If it was easy. Anybody could do it.

Rolf turns to leave.

Call Anthony and Junior. Tell them to get their butts over here.

MARLENA
Let’s wait until morning. Maybe the two of us can find what we need. Or at least a get a good start.

JOHN
I’m not leaving his room until I boot this thing up.

MARLENA
You’d better bring us a pot of coffee.

JOHN
And dinner. Tell my nephews to be here first thing in the morning for family pow-wow.

ROLF
What about Alexandra?

MARLENA
Call her. But she might not be able to come. Celeste is in the hospital

ROLF
What happened to her?

JOHN
She was attacked by the evil spirit in the room.

ROLF
Aren’t you afraid your prying will make her angrier?

MARLENA
We’re looking for a way to stop her.

ROLF
The only way to do that is lock her back in the room.

JOHN
You said that you didn’t know who she is.

ROLF
If Stefano could have stopped her, he would have. He wouldn’t have just locked her away.

MARLENA
Not necessarily. He likes kidnapping people and holding them against their will.

ROLF
(Walking out the door)
Some things are best left alone. You don’t want to listen to me. Don’t listen to me. I’ll make the calls and get dinner.
CUT
INT: HALLWAY OUTSIDE STEFANO’S OFFICE: EVENING.
Rolf closes the door.

ROLF
I don’t know what will be worse. Stefano will have my head if they discover his secrets.
John, will if he doesn’t. But if John finds what he is looking for he will loose everything else.
CUT

Monday, August 18, 2008

Tarot Energy Reading for Week of August 17

The energy reading for the week of August 17 will be a mixed bag of blessings and challenges. For those who have faced their past issues, the challenges will quickly turn into blessings. However, those who choose to continue to emotionally and spiritually follow past bad behaviors will learn that instead of blessings they will find increasingly intense challenges. The 8-8-08 door opening in combination with the eclipse of the full moon has shifted the destinies of those who have the courage to face their old behaviors and are willing to accept the changes.

As I was shuffling, the ten of pentacles jumped out of the deck and wanted my attention. Its message is that there will be new energy available. Some of it will be in the form of financial prosperity; however, the biggest gain will be in our ability to see and understand the energy currents as they flow around us. The clearer our understanding, the easier it will be for us to see new opportunities.

The energy challenges we will face this week is the two of cups. It is a card of partnerships and friendship. It is on this level that we will be challenged. For some it will be to create new bonds, while others will be forced to reevaluate existing ones. It is also a card of balance within each of us. Not only do we have to consider our needs but the needs of society as a whole. By being open to new possibilities, we can find alternative thoughts and actions that will not only help ourselves but others as well.

The blessings we will be given this week are the four of wands. The four is the herald of peace, satisfaction and harmony. For those who have completed this leg of the journey, it will be a time to rest on your well-deserved laurels by enjoying the benefits of your hard work. Partnerships that have become a challenge will eventually open new doors and reveal the next adventure. Yet those, who remain stuck by past behaviors or beliefs, will find the blessings eluding them as the get what they expect.

The ten of pentacles reappears in the end result position. It confirms it appearance during the shuffle. The two events have not only increased the energy available but have made it more accessible to those who seek it. However, wanting or needing doesn’t mean you will automatically receive it. For the most people, the challenge will be getting out of their own way by breaking behavioral patterns and feeling worthy or deserving to receive. The universe works on its own timetable; sometimes it will set up temporary fixes to until the permanent solutions can be put into place.

Alternative Storylines for Days of Our Lives Part 25

EXT: FIELD BEHIND FARMHOUSE: EARLY EVENING
Stanley, EJ and Ava are on horseback. The horses casually walk up the small hill. The hill overlooks the house, barn and the corrals.

STANLEY
(Pointing the left of the house)
We've been rotating the grain fields. This year it's planted over there. Next, it's scheduled behind the barn.
(Pointing to the right of the house)
The year after over there. James Mitchell and I have an agreement. He plants and harvest. We split the profits 50/50. This year is a done deal. As for next, that's between you and him.

AVA
You’re going to be just down the road. It’s not like you’re going far.

STANLEY
For now.

EJ
Hopefully for a long while.

STANLEY
What will be, will be. The horses only stay in a pasture a week at a time. To much longer, and the ground gets too beaten down.

EJ
I was really hoping to ride one of the mustangs.

STANLEY
Those were Melody’s horses. She could ride them bare back without a bridle. Anyone else...they weren’t so nice too.

EJ
Are they dangerous?

STANLEY
No. Just particular on who they let on their back.
AVA
Did you ever thing to ask their permission before you just jumped on?

STANLEY
That’s what Melody used to say.

EJ points to the two-acre area behind the barn. It has been cleared as is meticulously maintained. There is a pyramid of large fieldstones in the center, surrounded by even larger ones that spiral out into a circle of different kinds of trees

EJ
What’s that?

STANLEY
Our pet cemetery.

EJ
Your name is Stanley not Stephen.

STANLEY
(Laughing)
It’s not haunted or mystical. Just a place to remember and honor those who have crossed over. We called the pet cemetery because that’s how it started. When they were eight Ricky and Mickey’s gold fish died. We gave them a proper funeral. After they built that stone memorial to them in the center. I still don’t know how they got those stones out of the swamp. The stones and the trees are memorials to all sorts of furkids and to those we loved--Melody planted the apple tree in honor of her Appaloosa, Athena. She had a big thing for apples.

EJ
What’s a furkid?

STANLEY
A member of the family that has fur and four legs.

EJ
A pet.

AVA
No a special member of the family. I want one.
(Mimicking Eva Gabor portraying Lisa Douglas)
Oliver.

EJ
I’m not going to play.

STANLEY
He sounds like Oliver Douglas to me.

EJ
Don’t encourage her.

STANLEY
She doesn’t need any help from where I sit.

EJ
Fine. No cats. They hate me.

STANLEY
Then I’d stay out of the barn. Marie is a cat magnet. There is about a two dozen that live in the barn.

EJ
Swell. But Lisa had a dog. A Yorkie if I recall correctly.

AVA
But Oliver, I don’t want--

STANLEY
On that note, I’m leaving. I have a date with my beautiful Marie and I don’t to miss visiting hours.

Stanley turns his horse around and rides back toward the house.

EJ
I don’t think he was amused.

AVA
Race you to the pond.

Ava and her horse take off across the field at a gallop.

EJ
Pond? What pond?

His horse dances for a moment. EJ gets control and races after her. Stanley stops and watches them race out of sight.

STANLEY
Kids. Gotta love’em.
CUT
INT: EMERGENCY ROOM: EVENING
The paramedics rush through the doors pushing Celeste on a stretcher. She has a neck brace and is strapped to a backboard. She remains unconscious. They wheel her into an exam room. Lexie, carrying Theo, enters; she goes to the desk.

LEXIE
Natalie! They just brought my mother in. Which room?

NATALIE
Dr. Carver, you know the rules.

LEXIE
The rules be damned. I’ll search every room.

NATALIE
She’s in three.

Lexie walks toward the door.

They’re your rules. Do you really want to break them?

LEXIE
(Stopping, yet she is torn)
I wish you hadn’t said that. Who is on duty?

NATALIE
Berman’s on duty.

LEXIE
He’s good.

NATALIE
He’s on his way back down.

LEXIE
Down from where?

NATALIE
We’ve had a busy day. You know about the murdered cop.

LEXIE
Of course, I know. My husband’s the commissioner.

NATALIE
No need to be snarky. We also had an assault case. Someone you know. Lucas Horton.

LEXIE
Lucas?

NATALIE
He was badly beaten in Salem Square. They took him into surgery. We had a break and Berman went up to follow up.

The elevator doors open and Miles walks out. Immediately he goes toward exam room three.

LEXIE
The hospital rule is a doctor on duty at all times.

MILES
Do you want to write me up or do you want me go examine you mother?

Without waiting for an answer, he walks into the exam room and closes the door.

NATALIE
If you had let me explain. The resident caught the call. She was stable with strong vitals. The x-ray tech was in waiting for her. If you were acting like the chief instead of a daughter--

LEXIE
I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking.

The x-ray tech walks out of the exam room and carries the film to the elevator.

NATALIE
You have a good staff here. Let them do their job.

LEXIE
You’re right. How’s Lucas?

NATALIE
Do you want me to call up?

LEXIE
Please.

NATALIE
I could have someone from the daycare come get your little one--

LEXIE
No! I mean. No. I want to keep him with me.

Natalie picks up the phone and dials. Lexie puts Theo down and they walk to the waiting area. Lexie paces. Theo sits in a chair and watches her.

LEXIE
She has to be okay.

THEO
Mom, Grandmer will be okay. The lady told me so.

LEXIE
What lady?

THEO
The one who was at the door. She said she didn’t want Grandmer to tell.

LEXIE
What didn’t she want Grandmer to say?

THEO
I don’t know. She told me not to worry. Grandmer would wake up when it was over.

LEXIE
What was over?

Theo shrugs his shoulders.

Mom, why didn’t you just tell us who she was in the beginning.

NATALIE
(Walking over)
Lucas Horton is out of surgery. He’s going to be fine. They stopped the internal bleeding and pinned his ribs together.

LEXIE
Thanks. I’m sorry I snapped.

NATALIE
That’s why we don’t treat our own friends or family.

The elevator doors open. John and Marlena walk out.

MARLENA
Lexie, are you alright?

LEXIE
It’s Mom. She was attacked.

MARLENA
Who?

LEXIE
We’re not sure. It has to do with the west wing of the mansion.

JOHN
You’re not talking about the evil spirit? Come on. There’s no such thing.

LEXIE
I didn’t want to believe it either. But it’s true. She attacked me this afternoon.

MARLENA
You were attacked?

LEXIE
I was going to meet Abe at the Pub. It felt like I was being watched. Then it shoved me. Collin called me.

MARLENA
Collin?

LEXIE
He and his wife, Lauren, own that shop under Baker’s Books. I ran to him. We just got inside the door and she appeared in the glass.

JOHN
You mean outside the door?

LEXIE
No in the glass. She started to materialize. Collin and Lauren prayed. But she smashed the door and grabbed me by the throat. Don’t look at me like that! I’m not crazy. It happened.

MARLENA
Why you?

JOHN
I can answer that. She’s Stefano’s daughter. According to Voodoo lady, Stefano stole her kid and locked her in the west wing until she died. With her dying breath she cursed Stefano and all of his blood. It’s very dramatic.

MARLENA
Why am I not surprised. If thought curses would work, I would have done it decades ago.

LEXIE
She is very real.

MARLENA
Did you see her?

LEXIE
Not clearly. She is very petite. I think her hair was either dark brown or black. It was swept up. She sounded southern.

MARLENA
Of the top of my head, I thought of his daughter Renee. But she never had any children.

JOHN
I searched the room before the cleaning crew showed up.

LEXIE
Did you find anything?

JOHN
Nothing. It look like no one had ever lived there.

MARLENA
Knowing Stefano, the list could be endless.

JOHN
Come on. Enemies I believe. But curses and evil spirits?

MARLENA
You are really talking to the wrong person.

JOHN
That’s right. You were the one who was possessed. You must have been scary.

MARLENA
I nearly killed you.

JOHN
I don’t remember that.

LEXIE
To bad you still aren’t a Priest.

Miles comes out of the examination room. He looks around and walks over to Lexie

MILES
Lexie.

LEXIE
How’s my mom?

MILES
She is still unconscious. The films should be back in about a half hour. I put a rush. Her EEG is normal, as are all her responses. She should be awake.

MARLENA
But she’s not?

THEO
The lady told me she wouldn’t wake up until after.

MILES
What lady? What are you talking about?

JOHN
You don’t want to know.

MILES
If it involves my patient, I need to know.

JOHN
It’ll give you a headache.

MILES
I’ve had them before.

JOHN
Okay. Celeste was attacked by an evil spirit who is out for revenge. Aren’t you glad you asked?

MILES
I need a straight answer.

MARLENA
We’re serious.

MILES
(Looking suspiciously at them)
I’m just going to ignore this part of the conversation. Lexie when I get the x-rays, I’ll come get you.

Miles walks to the room. He stops at the doorway and stares for a moment before going inside and closing the door.

MARLENA
So much for my professional reputation.

LEXIE
I don’t care what anyone thinks. I know what I saw and what I felt.

JOHN
Okay rugrat. What lady?

THEO
I’m not a rugrat. My name is Theo

JOHN
Whatever. What lady?

LEXIE
The spirit talk to him. She said mom wouldn’t wake up until after it was over.

MARLENA
What?

LEXIE
I don’t know. She attack mom when she was going to tell me her name.

JOHN
Some cultures believe that to know a person’s name is to have power over them.

MARLENA
Now you believe?

JOHN
I didn’t say that. But I do believe the answer is in that house. We just have to know where to look. Or who to ask.

MARLENA
Do you have someone specific in mind?

JOHN
Rolf and EJ. They seemed to know about the room.

LEXIE
What about Tony?

MARLENA
Good idea.

JOHN
Didn’t he just spend the last twenty years on deserted island.

MARLENA
Yes, but he would know what Stefano did before he came to Salem. The more we can piece together.

LEXIE
The better armed we’ll be.

The x-ray tech exits the elevator with the films.

I need to go.
(Extending her hand to Theo)
Come with me.
(Marlena)
I couldn’t contribute much that you don’t already know.

MARLENA
I’ll let you know what we find out.

Lexie and Theo walk into the exam room.

JOHN
Isn’t that against the rules?

MARLENA
Yes. It is. Are you ready to help me search the mansion?

JOHN
I know just where to start.

MARLENA
I thought you might.
CUT