Robb C. Sewell-Wolff: Inside the Mind and Closet of a Scribe

Steve Frame

2009-11-07T17:14:00.000-08:00

As I surfed the 'net over the years, I came across a man who shared the same name as one of the most popular characters in the history of soap operas: Steve Frame. Steve and I didn't interact much, just occasionally agreeing or disagreeing as we shared our knowledge of daytime soaps. At one point, Steve asked me to contribute to his new website, which paid tribute to the rich history of daytime television. Unfortunately, I didn't have the time to do so.

Then, earlier this year, I was lurking on one message board and saw a discussion between Steve and a few other people about actor Jarrod Ross, who was the original Phillip Spaulding on Guiding Light. I wasn't a member of the subscription-based message board, so I couldn't contribute to the discussion. But then I spotted Steve's name one day on Facebook and sent a message to let him know that, to my knowledge, Jarrod had been killed in a car accident sometime in the late 1980s (he lived in Milltown, NJ, the town next to my hometown, East Brunswick). That message to Steve was the start of a rich and wonderful friendship.

Steve quickly befriended me on Facebook and we started chatting about all kinds of things: soaps, life, men, sex. You name it, we discussed it. We shared laughs. We shared our lives. I told Steve about my life with my husband Eric and he told me about the man who shared his life and his heart, Gil. I shared with him about my battle with melanoma back in 2003. And Steve shared with me his heart disease. He comforted me when my cat Mulder passed in September. I encouraged him as he battled fatigue and sleepless nights. I laughed at his jokes. I treasured the photographs he posted on Facebook: pictures of sexy men and photos that he found funny. He sent me risque videos. I shared with him photos of a very sexy model named Gilmar Rodrigues, which he quickly posted on Facebook. We talked about Guiding Light and other soaps. We dished the best and worst of the Internet. I treasured all the wonderful photos of Guiding Light that he posted in the days before and after the venerable soap opera ended.

I shared with Steve my concerns about my health. A mass had been detected in my groin, I had a hernia, and also had swollen lymph nodes. There was concern that my melanoma had returned and spread. I was scared. And Steve offered hope, inspiring me. I had surgery in early October and every few days Steve would check in on me, to make sure I was doing OK. I was so touched by his concern, especially since he wasn't feeling very well. Together, we rejoiced that all was OK. My melanoma hadn't returned.

Then, I think it was a Saturday, I opened my email to find a message from Steve's partner Gil, sharing the news that Steve had suffered a major stroke. I was shaken. I posted the news on Steve's Facebook page and on Soap Opera Network and Danfling's Message Board, two sites that Steve frequented. Within minutes, messages of support and encouragement began to pour in. I shared many of the messages with Gil. Gil shared these and many others with Steve, offering encouragement to the man who befriended so many of us.

A week passed and then came another email from Gil. Steve had been doing well for a few days but then developed pneumonia and started building up fluid. I again shared the news with his friends. We all hoped and prayed for the best.

Then, yesterday afternoon, I came back from lunch, opened my Comcast email, and there was the message from Gil:

Steve was gone.

In his email, Gil shared a message that Steve had given him about a month ago, a message that Steve wanted to pass along to all of his friends, about how much he appreciated our friendship and how we touched his life. But, Steve, my friend, you touched our lives too in every way...ways you never knew. As evidenced by all the posts I've seen on the Internet the past day, you touched many lives, many hearts. Your life changed people's lives. You, my friend, changed the world.

Though we never met in person, never spoke on the phone, Steve was a friend in every sense of the word. He touched my heart in immeasurable ways and I richly value the past few months that I got to know him. I'll miss him and I will forever treasure him. And I will take to heart the poems that he shared with Gil, words he wanted all of his friends to consider:

Remember me with smiles,
Because your smiles helped get me through.
They gave me peace and comfort,
And hope to hold on to.

Remember me with laughter,
It was precious for me to hear.
It took away the pain I suffered,
It took away my fear.

Remember me with smiles and laughter,
For that's the way I'll remember you all.
If you can only remember me with tears,
Then don't remember me at all.

Guiding Light: A Fond Farewell

2009-09-18T06:04:00.000-07:00

There is a destiny that makes us brothers.

None goes his way alone.

All that we send into the lives of others.

Comes back into our own.

January 25, 1937 - September 18, 2009

Guiding Light's Most Memorable Actresses, Part 6: Charita Bauer

2009-09-17T09:52:00.001-07:00

Of the thousands of actresses who have appeared on Guiding Light over the past 72 years, none is more synonomous with the series than the late Charita Bauer, who is, in my opinion, the most memorable actress in the history of Guiding Light and, perhaps, daytime television.

For nearly 35 years, Charita portrayed the role of Bert Miller Bauer, the matriarch of the serial's core family. Born on December 20, 1923 in Newark, NJ, Charita joined Guiding Light in 1950 while the serial was still on radio. But Charita wasn't the original Bert. Ann Shepherd originated the role, only to replaced shortly thereafter with the actress who would become the heart and soul of broadcasting's longest running drama.

Back in the 1950s, Bert Bauer wasn't the kind, loving, compassionate matriarch that most viewers remember. She was a bit of a nag and somewhat of a social climber. She was married to businessman Bill Bauer, an alcoholic with a penchant for other women. In the early 1950s, Bert and Bill welcomed two sons: Michael and William (Ed).

In 1962, Bert was diagnosed with uterine cancer, a storyline never before tackled on daytime television and a plot that helped create awareness of the disease.

Guiding Light continued to tackle socially relevant stories as the years passed. Bill battled alcoholism as did his son Ed. Bill had a heart transplant in 1968, only to die in a plane crash a year later. The family's patriarch Frederick Bauer died in 1973. And through it all, Bert remain steadfast, headstrong, and devoted to her family and friends. She was a woman who didn't mince her words and who spoke the truth as she saw it. This priceless scene features Charita with the late Don Stewart (Mike) and the late Theo Goetz (Papa Bauer).

In 1977, as Guiding Light expanded to an hour, Bill Bauer returned from the dead, giving Bert a powerful storyline and Charita the opportunity to fully display her talent. Arriving along with Bill was his illegitimate daughter Hillary Kincaid. Before long, Hillary was part of the Bauer family and Bert treated her as though she were her own daughter.

In 1983, Charita was presented with more story material. Now a patient advocate at Cedars Hospital, Bert, along with her grandson Rick and his best friend Phillip Spaulding, befriended an older German man named Martin Bruner, who was dying. Later, Bill Bauer once again resurfaced only to be pushed out of a hotel window to his death. Bert mourned her ex-husband as long-hidden secrets involving the Bauer, Chamberlain, Spaulding, Lewis, and Reardon families came to the surface. Newly arrived Oklahoma oil magnate HB Lewis seemed to take an interest in Bert. But the story was cut short when Charita temporarily left the series in late 1983 for health reasons: a blood clot necessitated the amputation of her leg.

After Charita had recovered, she returned to Guiding Light in the spring of 1984. With Charita's permission, head writer Pamela Long and executive producer Gail Kobe embarked on what would be one of Bert's most memorable storylines: just like Charita, Bert would be diagnosed with a blood clot and have her leg amputated.

The storyline was well received by viewers who rejoiced as Bert triumphed over her adversity. As spirited as ever, Bert nicknamed her prosthesis leg "Edith." She also developed a close friendship with Josh Lewis, who was confined to a wheelchair after a car accident. That friendship resulted in one of the series' most powerful and most memorable scenes where Bert talks with Josh about life (featured in the special tribute montage at the end of this post). Here is another scene where Bert encourages her friend.

Later that summer, Bert would say farewell to her eldest son Mike, who moved to Washington, DC, and Hillary, who was killed. Bert's final goodbye to the woman she treated as her own daughter was heartbreaking and so endearing.

Charita Bauer last aired as Bert in December 1984 as illness once again forced her to leave the show. Sadly, Charita died on February 28, 1985. It was truly the end of an era.

A year later, Guiding Light would have Bert Bauer die in her sleep, leading to a well-deserved tribute to the actress and character who was and will always be the guiding light. And here, from 1987, is another tribute to Charita, on the occasion of Guiding Light's 50th year in broadcasting.

To end, some dialogue from one of Charita's most memorable performances, her talk with Josh Lewis:

Bert: Josh! Josh! It takes time! Josh, we're at the beginning. You're at the beginning. So am I. Look at how far we've come already. Don't look at the distance that's left to go.

Josh: Don't expect miracles. Is that what you're saying?

Bert: No, I'm not telling you that. Because life itself is a miracle. And don't you ever forget it.

72 Outstanding Moments in Guiding Light History, Part 2

2009-09-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

The countdown continues...

37. An insecure Blake Marler and a lonely Rick Bauer end up having a one-night-stand. The next morning, Blake’s husband Ross comes home and the couple do the nasty. Before long, Blake is preggers but this isn’t your usual baby daddy drama. You see, Blake is pregnant with twins by two men!

38. Vanessa’s beloved father Henry Chamberlain passes away and Springfield mourns. A devastated Vanessa is unable to let her emotions flow. But then she reads Henry’s final letter to her and the tears pour forth. Vanessa references the letter during the show’s final episodes. Touching and heartbreaking.

39. Annie Dutton Lewis turns to alcohol and drugs to help her cope with all of life's troubles. Friends and family help her overcome her demons. But soon, Annie gives into her dark primal urges as she wages war against her rival Reva Shayne.

40. Reva’s mother Sarah Shayne makes a stunning deathbed confession: she had an illegitimate son. Reva sets off on a quest to find her brother only to get another surprise: Sarah’s illegitimate child was actually a girl.

41. Meta Bauer, who hadn’t been seen since the early 1970s, returns to Springfield in November 1986. She is portrayed by Mary Stuart who had starred for 35 years as Joanne on Search for Tomorrow. Meta provides Guiding Light and the Bauer family with a much-needed matriarch.

42. In January 1997, all of Springfield gathers to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Cedars Hospital, in conjunction with Guiding Light’s 60th anniversary. Familiar faces return for the celebration, including Mike Bauer and Harley Cooper.

43. With a boat in trouble out on the water and Springfield’s lighthouse not working, friends and enemies alike gather to get the light working.

44. In February 1997, the truth about the paternity of Blake’s twins comes out, and the relationships of Blake & Ross and Rick & Abby are left tattered.

45. Desperate to hold onto Josh, Annie embarks on a number of schemes. She is artificially inseminated and passes her unborn child off as Josh’s. Knowing that Reva is loyal to family, Annie pretends to be Reva’s long-lost half-sister, leading Reva to call out to her late mother and question her for producing such a terrible person.

46. Annie’s fetus dies and Annie hatches a diabolical scheme to frame Reva for killing the child. At the top of the staircase in the Spaulding manse, Annie places Reva’s hand on her own chest, screams “Reva! No!” and then falls backward down the stairs.

47. Annie’s schemes are unraveled on the witness stand as the truth is revealed. Afterward, Annie collapses in pain in the courtroom. She is rushed to Cedars Hospital and has a hysterectomy. Turns out that carrying the dead fetus caused an infection, leaving her barren.

48. Abby is nearly raped by thug Roy. The case goes to trial but Roy gets off on a technicality. When he threatens Abby in court, Abby snaps, grabs a guard’s gun, and shoots Roy dead.

49. Lewis patriarch HB passes and family members return for his funeral. His granddaughter Marah, Reva and Josh’s daughter, gives an unforgettable speech about her granddad.

50. Spoiled, rich Drew Jacob becomes friends with Michelle Bauer and copes with the death of her father. She’s stunned when she learns that she’s actually the daughter of hooker Selena Davis and Ben Warren, Ross’ half-brother.

51. Josh and Reva remarry in June 1999 in a beautiful ceremony overseen by the spirit of Reva’s late mother Sarah. But their happiness is fleeting. Before long, Reva begins to piece together the years she was presumed dead: she had lived on an island and had given birth to Prince Richard Winslow’s son, Jonathan. Josh and Reva would divorce, only to remarry in 2002 at the Beacon Hotel.

52. Meta talks with Michelle about the enduring power of the Bauer family. The Bauers have been around since the late 1940s.

53. Rick Bauer would suffer from heart failure in 2002 and his father Ed would return to Springfield after a long absence to be with his son. Meanwhile, Richard Winslow, who had married Reva’s half-sister Cassie, was involved in a car accident. He begged Reva to help him die and Reva shut off his life support machines. After his death, Rick received his heart.

54. Alexandra Spaulding returns to Springfield after a long absence with the role now being played by Dynasty actress Joan Collins. Her stint is brief. She quits after only two months and actress Marj Dusay returns to the role.

55. Sandy Foster shows up in Springfield and claims to be Reva and Richard’s son Jonathan. But Sandy is a fraud. The real Jonathan shows up in 2004 and he’s a real bad ass. Not only does he viciously confront the man who assumed his identity, he sets off on a quest to destroy his mother and her family. How so? He seduces Cassie’s young daughter, and thus his own cousin, Tammy.

56. Jonathan proves he is his mother’s son. Just like Reva did back in 1984 when she baptized herself the “Slut of Springfield,” Jonathan hops in the country club’s fountain and makes quite a spectacle. The scene continues here as tensions escalate. But it's not quite over as Reva reminisces. The scene wraps here.

57. Jonathan’s revenge continues. Just as Cassie is about to marry Edmund Winslow, she wakes up in bed with none other than Jonathan.

58. In 2007, tragedy hits Jonathan and Tammy, who have fallen in love. Alan Spaulding tries to have Jonathan killed but it is Tammy who is hit by a speeding car. She dies in the hospital with a grieving Jonathan by her side.

59. Guiding Light celebrates its 70th anniversary with a special episode that pays homage to its incredible history. Beth Ehlers, who played Harley Cooper, portrays Irna Phillips, who created Guiding Light. The serial’s days on radio are recalled.

60. Jonathan, with his and Lizzie Spaulding’s daughter Sarah in the car, madly pursues Alan’s limo in a desperate quest for revenge, only to drive off a cliff. But father and daughter aren’t dead. Jonathan faked his death so he and Sarah could escape Alan’s diabolical clutches.

61. Olivia Spencer falls in love with Alan’s son Gus, who has left his wife Harley to marry his old love Natalia. Dying from heart failure, Olivia is the recipient of a heart transplant. In an ironic twist, she receives Gus’ heart after he is killed in a motorcycle accident.

62. After a rocky beginning, Olivia and Natalia become friends. Olivia and her young daughter Emma move into Natalia’s farmhouse. When Emma makes a school presentation about her two mommies, school officials assume the women are lesbians. In time, Olivia and Natalia fall in love. Here, Natalia admits her love for Olivia.

63. Buzz Cooper’s son Henry Bradshaw Cooper begins a steamy affair with Beth Raines who is by now married to Alan Spaulding. Coop, as Henry is called, is involved in a car accident. He dies in the hospital as the Coopers grieve.

64. Phillip Spaulding returns to town and begins to repair his numerous tattered relationships. But Phillip is harboring a secret: he is dying.

65. Old memories and good times are revisited as Phillip, Beth, Rick, and Mindy attend their 25th year high school reunion.

66. Ed Bauer returns to aid a dying Phillip. Michelle Bauer and her husband Danny Santos return for the final Bauer barbeque. Longtime friends speak of Springfield as Rick talks about his beloved grandmother Bert.

67. Lizzie Spaulding and Bill Lewis, the son of Billy and Vanessa, are married in a beautiful outdoor wedding.

68. Phillip’s teenage son James is found to be a match for a bone marrow transplant that could save his dad’s life. But Phillip doesn’t want to put his son at risk. In a surprise twist, it is revealed that Alan, Phillip’s adoptive father, is a match. After seeking advice from his friend/enemy Buzz, Alan offers to be a donor for Phillip.

69. Jonathan decides to stop running and returns to Springfield with his and Lizzie’s daughter Sarah. Lizzie is speechless as she is reunited with her daughter.

70. Billy and Vanessa prepare to remarry in a beautiful ceremony at the country club. Buzz, who has been dating Beth’s mother Lillian for a few years, gets down on one knee and proposes to Lillian. In Lillian’s 26 years on Guiding Light, she has been mainly known as a nurse at Cedars, as Beth’s mother, and as Lizzie’s grandmother. Billy and Vanessa convince Buzz and Lillian to get married with them. The two couples exchange vows with faces present and past watching.

71. Before Lillian marries Buzz, she has one stop to make. She heads to the cemetery and goes directly to Maureen’s grave. She reflects on their friendship and how her mistake cost Maureen her life. Lillian tells Maureen that she has found someone special and that he’s asked her to marry him. It’s a touching, beautiful moment. Tina Sloan, who has played Lillian since May 1983, rocks the scene. Like Charita Bauer (Bert) and Ellen Parker (Maureen), Tina Sloan has become the heart of Guiding Light.

72. Since his introduction in 1977, Alan Spaulding has been a most complicated and tragic villain. Over the summer of 2009, Guiding Light focused on the redemption of the character, culminating in a selfless act that saved Phillip’s life. Alan is finally a changed man. He is happy that Olivia has found Natalia and that they are together raising his granddaughter Emma. He is proud of his grandson Rafe, who is enlisting in the military. Alan shows up at the double wedding and shares special moments with family, friends, and enemies. For one of the few times in his life, Alan is actually considered a hero. He shares a special moment with Phillip and encourages his son to make the most of his life. Genuinely happy, Alan sits by the lake while he reflects on his life. When Phillip returns to his father’s side, he discovers Alan dead. It’s a touching, beautiful, poignant, heartbreaking moment and incredibly reflective of the amazing institution that was Guiding Light.

72 Outstanding Moments in Guiding Light History, Part 1

2009-09-15T17:48:00.000-07:00

Over 15,000 episodes on television. And probably 5,000 on radio. Touching stories. Unforgettable dialogue. Breathtaking performances. Countless memories. In honor of Guiding Light's 72 years in broadcasting, I highlight 72 outstanding moments that resonate with me since I started watching the show back in 1982. Here, in random order, are the first 36 moments.

1. Nola Reardon and her soon-to-be sister-in-law Vanessa Chamberlain show up for Nola's engagement party wearing the same exact dress, leading to a down-and-dirty cat fight between the two headstrong women. (The fight starts at the 6:15 mark.)

2. After a tumultuous courtship, Quinton McCord Chamberlain and Nola Reardon are married in June 1983. The Reardon family forget the bride at the Reardon's boarding house so Nola hitches a ride on a fire truck. The newlyweds fly off in a hot air balloon.

3. The arrival of Annabelle Sims in 1983 kicks off a murder mystery that reveals long-hidden secrets about Springfield's finest families and finally reveals the truth behind the disappearance of Reardon patriarch Hugh Tom Reardon.

4. Phillip Spaulding and Freddie Bauer (renamed Rick) are aged in late 1982. In 1983, the boys become quick friends with Billy Lewis' spoiled daughter Melinda Sue (Mindy) and sweet, innocent Beth Raines. Both Phillip and Rick fall in love with Beth, who has a very abusive stepfather.

5. In 1984, Bauer matriarch Bert develops a blood clot and her leg has to be amputated. Bert refuses to give in to a pity party and encourages paralyzed Josh Lewis when Josh becomes frustrated with his rehabilitation. She also talks with him about the wonders of life.

6. Reva Shayne, ex-wife of Billy Lewis, arrives in town in late 1983. She rekindles her affair with Billy's brother Josh and then weds the Lewis boys' dad, HB. Josh and Reva's passion simmers beneath the surface all summer, leading to a most memorable moment when Reva strips, jumps in the country's club fountain, and baptizes herself the slut of Springfield.

7. In March 1986, the Bauers get word that their beloved matriarch Bert has passed away. Springfield mourns as do Guiding Light's viewers. Charita Bauer, the actress who portrayed Bert for 35 years, had passed away in February 1985.

8. Party girl Reva and her buddy Phillip Spaulding take center stage at the Blue Orchid as Reva sings "Proud Mary" and Phillip struts his stuff.

9. Feisty Darcy Dekker, a gang member, raises hell in 1984 as she and her fellow gang members lay siege to Cedars Hospital.

10. After years of spotty storylines, nurse Hillary Bauer finds herself with not one but two love interests: journalist Fletcher Reade and Dr. Jim Reardon. Hillary (nicknamed "Nightingale" by Fletcher) is unexpectedly killed off when a bomb blows up in her face. In this scene, her friends and family remember her.

11. The Spauldings are rocked to their core when they discover their patriarch Brandon faked his death and moved to Barbados to spend his days with his black mistress Sharina and their daughter Victoria.

12. Ross Marler's wife Carrie is revealed to have three very different personalities. She seduces teen neighbor Ron Kennedy, then bad boy Josh Lewis, and spreads ugly lies about her brother-in-law Justin, leading Justin's wife Jackie to leave him. Jackie dies in a plane crash and Carrie heads off to England for psychiatric treatment. Thus, within days, both Marler brothers lose their wives.

13. The truth about Phillip Spaulding's paternity is finally revealed in 1983 when he learns that Justin Marler and the late Jackie Scott Marler are his parents, not Alan and Elizabeth Spaulding. Grant Aleksander turns in a spellbinding performance as Phillip.

14. In 1987, secrets about Josh Lewis begin to come to the surface and it's revealed he was married to Dr. Sonni Carrera during his two-year absence from Springfield. Sonni proves to be a formidable foe for Reva and it turns out, like Carrie Marler before her, Sonni has multiple personalities.

15. After many years of turmoil, returned-from-the-dead spouses, heartaches, and miseries, Josh Lewis and Reva Shayne finally tie the knot in July 1989.

16. Wacky Nadine Cooper arrives in town in early 1989 as her daughter Harley Davidson Cooper is set to marry Alan-Michael Spaulding. A gold-digging social climber, Nadine provides plenty of comic relief.

17. The past resurfaces in 1988-1989 when newcomer Blake Lindsey is revealed to be Christina Thorpe, the daughter of Holly Norris Bauer Thorpe and the late Roger Thorpe. Before long, Holly is back in town and causing heartache for her ex-husband Dr. Ed Bauer and his wife Maureen.

18. Reva's heroic brother Rusty finds love with ex-junkie Rose MacLaren. But their happiness is cut short when Josh's best friend Dr. Will Jeffries murders Rose.

19. Alexandra Spaulding and Fletcher Reade are in a plane crash and end up on an island. A mysterious man named Adam Malik cares for Alex. Turns out that Adam is actually bad boy Roger Thorpe. Before long, all of Springfield learn that Roger is quite alive and ready to stir up trouble anew.

20. While on vacation in the Florida Keys with her family, Reva, suffering from post-partum depression and quite delusional, drives off a bridge to her watery death. But, is Reva really dead?

21. Widower Josh Lewis and his children's nanny Harley Cooper fall in a love and begin a steamy affair. Alas, Josh soon leaves Springfield to search for Reva.

22. Much to Springfield's shock, Alex marries Roger Thorpe. Before long, Roger is embroiled in a torrid affair with the much younger Mindy Lewis.

23. Lillian Raines discovers a lump in her breast. She turns to her friend and colleague Dr. Ed Bauer and the two have a one-night-stand. Ed's wife Maureen learns of their affair and major confrontations ensue. And heartache: Maureen dies after a horrific car accident.

24. Over a number of episodes, Springfield learns of Maureen's death. The repercussions are innumerable and long-lasting. Everyone is touched by her death: her husband, her friends, her niece Bridget. Even villain Roger Thorpe is devastated since Maureen accepted him, blemishes and all.

25. In a desperate attempt to hold onto her husband Billy, Nadine hatches onto a plan to fake a pregnancy. She convinces young, pregnant Bridget Reardon to allow her to raise her child, the offspring of Roger's illegitimate son Hart. Bridget is quite a delight and very reminiscent of her Aunt Nola.

26. Alexandra Spaulding publicly humiliates her philandering husband Roger at the country club, revealing her husband's tawdry secrets.

27. Bridget Reardon's hair dryer causes a major blackout in Springfield, stranding characters together. During the blackout, Blake seduces her mother Holly's boyfriend Ross.

28. In the summer of 1993, history is revisited when Ed Bauer falls off a deck at a house on a cliff. His arch-nemesis Roger grabs onto Ed's hand and saves his life. Thirteen years earlier, Roger had tumbled off a cliff. Ed had grasped onto Roger's hand in an attempt to save his life, only for Roger to fall to his presumed death.

29. Alexandra Spaulding returns to Springfield in the fall of 1993 after departing the summer before. She makes amends with her son Nick, who is engaged to her ex-husband Roger's ex-mistress Mindy. Before long, Roger and Alexandra are sparring anew and Roger is shot, kicking of a fascinating whodunit.

30. Vanessa Chamberlain Lewis flees Springfield for a bit to rediscover herself. She meets and begins an affair with a mystery man, who turns out to be her deceased best friend Maureen's nephew Matt. They continue their affair when Matt comes to Springfield.

31. A fire breaks out on Springfield's Fifth Street, putting lives at risk. All of Springfield learns of Matt and Vanessa's affair during the fire. Buzz Cooper asks for help as the fire rages.

32. Lucy Cooper is raped by Spaulding Enterprises employee Brent Lawrence. After Brent is presumed dead, he resurfaces in drag as Marion Crane and befriends his rape victim. He even goes as far as to change the results of Lucy's HIV so that the heroine thinks she's HIV positive. The plot is over-the-top but incredibly delicious and pays homage to the classic film Psycho. (Brent's profile starts at 1:40 mark in the video.)

33. In the town of Goshen, wealthy Alan Spaulding comes across none other than the presumed dead Reva Shayne Lewis. Reva is suffering from amnesia and going by the name of Rebecca. She's living with the Blumes, an Amish family. Her best friend is the Blume's deaf daughter, Abigail.

34. Nurse Annie Dutton and Josh Lewis fall in love, unaware that Josh's wife Reva is very much alive. Annie is forced to break her ex-husband Rick Bauer's heart when she admits she loves Josh, not Rick.

35. Daffy Nadine Cooper develops psychic powers and is soon dreaming of a blonde woman in danger. Viewers are led to believe that she's thinking of the recently returned Reva. But Nadine's visions are about herself. She soon discover Marion's true identity and is murdered. Her body surfaces a few months later.

36. Just as Annie and Josh marry, they discover that Reva is very much alive. Josh decides he will remain committed to his new wife as Josh and Reva's young children Marah and Shayne deal with the news that their mother is alive.

Guiding Light's Most Memorable Actresses, Part 5: Lisa Brown

2009-09-14T16:26:00.000-07:00

Today's episode of Guiding Light marked the return of one of the show's most beloved actresses and characters: Lisa Brown as Nola Reardon.

Brown joined the serial in early 1980 as the young daughter of boardinghouse owner Bea Reardon. For Brown's first year-and-a-half on the show, Nola was quite a devious schemer. She fell for handsome Dr. Kelly Nelson, though Kelly only had eyes for sweet, innocent Morgan Richards. Well, that didn't stop Nola. She schemed to seduce Kelly but her efforts failed. So she went and seduced Floyd Parker and got pregnant. She then tried to pass her unborn child off as Kelly's. Eventually Nola's lies were exposed. In time, she began to undergo a stunning metamorphosis. She went to work for the mysterious Quint McCord and slowly began shedding her scheming ways as she became a caring mother to her newborn daughter Kelly Louise (later renamed Anastasia) and as she fell in love with her new boss.

The Nola/Quint pairing was wildly popular with fans and the couple tied the knot in June 1983. Before long, Nola was preggers with Quint's child, a son they named Anthony James in honor of two of Nola's brothers. Unfortunately, after the couple married, Guiding Light de-emphasized the pair and instead focused on new characters and stories. Then, in spring 1985, Nola and Quint were written out of the show.

Nola would return to Springfield in 1995, albeit she and Quint had separated. She was soon joined by her son, now calling himself J. In 1996, it appeared that the show was paving the way for a romance between Nola and her late sister Maureen's husband Ed, but the plot was dropped when Peter Simon, who played Ed, departed the show. Quint soon returned but the show's writers failed to craft a compelling storyline for the couple. Quint was written out in early 1997. Nola, meanwhile, was thrust into an unpopular storyline where she fell in love with restaurant owner Buzz Cooper and schemed to steal him away from his paramour Jenna. The story ended abruptly and Nola simply faded from sight, an unfortunate end to an amazing character.

Lisa Brown's performances as the complex villainess/heroine were fascinating to watch as she was adept at both drama and comedy. Nola was a huge fan of classic movies and would often retreat into fantasies where she was the the lead in her own versions of films like Casablanca, The Wizard of Oz, Jane Eyre, and Rebecca, among many others. The fantasies were a delight to watch and provided interesting glimpses into Nola's complicated psyche.

So, let's take a peek at Nola, her machinations, fantasies, and fights. First, we get a glimpse of Nola as she fills the police in on some critical information about the nefarious Roger Thorpe (Nola appears at the 1:48 mark). Next, Kelly, played by John Wesley Shipp, confronts Nola with the truth behind her machinations. But the drama isn't over as it continues here. Then Nola finally cracks. Next, Nola and Morgan meet at the Bauer's home and discuss the past (and includes John Wesley Shipp in a Speedo). Nola fantasizes that she's in her own version of the classic Jane Eyre. Next, Nola and her soon-to-be sister-in-law Vanessa trade blows after they both show up for Nola's engagement party wearing the same exact dress. The memories start at the 4:05 mark, and the fur begins to fly at the 6:15 mark. Guiding Light paid homage to that classic scene on today's episode as Nola returned for Vanessa's wedding.

Lisa Brown and her portrayal of Nola are major parts of Guiding Light's rich history. It is truly a treat for fans and a fitting nod to the character and actress that both are back for Guiding Light's final episodes.

Finally, for Lisa Brown fans, here is a brand-new interview with the actress that appeared today on TV Guide's website.

Guiding Light's Most Memorable Actresses, Part 4: Beverlee McKinsey

2009-09-13T13:59:00.000-07:00

Number 3 on my list of Guiding Light's most memorable actresses is Beverlee McKinsey, who played the pivotal role of Baroness Alexandra Spaulding Von Halkein from 1984 to 1992. Alexandra, the sister of the wealthy and villainous Alan Spaulding, was a most complicated creature: she was regal, dignified, devious, sexual, passionate. She loved her brother Alan but plotted against him at every move. She detested her step-daughter India and was eventually reunited with her son Lujack, who had disappeared years before with his father. She dated lawyer Mike Bauer, rekindled her old affair with dying rocker Locke Walls, dated oil magnate HB Lewis, was stranded on a desert island with journalist Fletcher Reade, married the devious Roger Thorpe, and was reunited with another long-lost son, Nick. Alexandra was a formidable force in Springfield and in McKinsey's more-than-capable hands, she was a delight to watch.

McKinsey had earlier wowed viewers as the bitchy Iris Cory Carrington on Another World and its spin-off Texas, even garnering star billing on Texas. Before that, she briefly played the poor Emma Frame Ordway on Another World and Julie Richards on Love is a Many Splendored Thing. Thus, her casting on Guiding Light was quite a coup.

As I mentioned, McKinsey's Alexandra was quite complicated. In this awesome fun scene, though focused on Kim Zimmer's Reva Shayne singing "Proud Mary," we see some interactions between Alexandra and her step-daughter India and see Alexandra partying. Next, Alexandra confronts devious Blake who, over a few years, seduced Alex's brother Alan and nephews Phillip and Alan-Michael. Next, Alexandra and India spar. In this brief scene, Alex informs Billy Lewis about a shocking secret involving her bad buy hubby Roger. Finally, some scenes from McKinsey's stunning performance as she reveals Roger's affair with Billy's daughter Mindy. First, Alex dumps Roger in front of the country club crowd. Delicious! Next, Alex reveals more about Roger. But the fireworks aren't over quite yet!

McKinsey's performances over her 8 1/2 years on Guiding Light were brilliant and mesmerizing. She departed the series in August 1992 as only she could: she left for vacation and quit, using an out in her contract. Alexandra was later recast with Marj Dusay (1993-1997, 1998-1999, and 2002-2009) and Joan Collins (2002). McKinsey would appear briefly on General Hospital as former showgirl Myrna Slaughter but her days on daytime were over. Sadly, McKinsey passed away in May 2008. Here is a tribute to her, accompanied by Guiding Light's 1983-1991 theme song. And here is another tribute to the legendary actress, featuring vintage stills and clips from Texas.

Thanks for the memories, Bev. You will not be forgotten.

Guiding Light's Most Memorable Actresses, Part 3: Ellen Parker

2009-09-10T15:01:00.000-07:00

Ellen Parker joined Guiding Light in 1986 as Maureen Reardon Bauer, replacing Ellen Dolan who originated the role in 1982. Maureen was one of seven children who were raised by their mother Bea in a rambling old boarding house on Springfield's Seventh Street. Maureen married Dr. Ed Bauer in 1983 and quickly became one of Guiding Light's most beloved heroines. Though she rarely drove story, Maureen was one of the most pivotal characters on Guiding Light's canvas. She was part of not one, but two major Springfield families. She was best friends with blue blood Vanessa Chamberlain Lewis and Cedars Hospital nurse Lillian Raines. She was a devoted daughter, sister, and wife. She was the caring and loving stepmother to Ed's illegitimate daughter Michelle. She was a compassionate friend to journalist Fletcher Reade and one of the only friends of town pariah Roger Thorpe. She was a wise and nurturing aunt to her troubled niece Bridget. She stood by as Ed cheated on her with Dr. Claire Ramsey (resulting in Michelle's conception) and with his ex-wife Holly. Maureen was a pillar in the town of Springfield and, after the death of Ed's mother Bert in 1986, Maureen became the heart of the Bauer. And, consequently, actress Ellen Parker became the heart of Guiding Light.

In 1992, the powers at be at Guiding Light decided to write Maureen out of the story after a focus group determined the character was expendable. Ultimately, it was a decision that drove incredible story for months, but that removed a character and an actress that had become essential to the series. That year, Maureen's aforementioned friend Lillian Raines faced breast cancer and ended up having a one-night-stand with Ed. In early 1993, Maureen discovered her husband and friend's transgression and all hell broke lose...and changed life in Springfield forever.

Ellen Parker was powerful and mesmerizing as Maureen confronted her husband and friend, and she relayed the sad story to her good pal Vanessa. Her performances netted her an Emmy in 1993. But, sadly, the storyline meant the end of Maureen Reardon Bauer. After a tense and emotional confrontation with Ed where she intoned, "You have broken my heart," Maureen fled the Bauer's cabin and was involved in a horrific car accident. She later died in the hospital as her families and all of Springfield grieved.

Ellen Parker would later return to Guiding Light on a number of occasions in newly created flashbacks and as a spirit offer guidance and hope to her daughter Michelle and pal Vanessa.

So, step back now and watch the amazing Ellen Parker in action.

Here, Maureen and Vanessa have a heart to heart talk. This scene is the start of Maureen's confrontation with Ed, followed by their heartbreaking final moments together. Finally, the end credits to the episode where Maureen died, a montage of scenes featuring Ellen Parker to the tune of Linda Ronstadt's "Goodbye My Friend."

Guiding Light's Most Memorable Actresses, Part 2: Cynthia Watros

2009-09-08T17:12:00.000-07:00

In late 1994, actress Cynthia Watros (later of Lost, Titus, and The Drew Carey Show) joined Guiding Light as Annie Dutton, a new nurse at Cedars Hospital. Before long, Annie was teamed romantically with widower Josh Lewis. Annie quickly won the hearts of Josh's young children Marah and Shayne and the couple were making plans to spend their lives together. But, wouldn't you know it? Trouble was on the horizon. And trouble with a capital R as in Reva, Josh's wife who was presumed dead after driving off a bridge in the Florida Keys back in 1990.

For Annie's first few years in Springfield, she was a typical heroine but with a bit of a past. Back in Chicago, Annie had not only been married to good Dr. Rick Bauer, but she had also battled alcoholism. When Reva finally resurfaced in Springfield, Josh remained committed to his new love Annie but Annie's growing insecurities eventually led her back to the bottle and prescription pills. Eventually, Annie kicked her habit but she soon spiraled out of control as she tried anything, everything to hold onto Josh: pretending to be Reva's long-lost sister, lying to Josh that she was pregnant. To keep her pregnancy lie going, Annie got herself artificially inseminated. Alas, the fetus died and Annie then embarked on a diabolical plan to frame Reva for the murder of her unborn child. During a huge party at the Spaulding mansion, Annie took a tumble down the stairs, thereby miscarrying her child and neatly implicating Reva in the accident. Reva soon stood trial for the crime. But everything finally came to a head in June 1997 when Annie's lies were exposed on the witness stand as Watros turned in an amazing performance that helped her garner an Emmy for outstanding actress. Here Annie begins to admit the truth. Annie continues to unravel in this clip. And, finally, all hell breaks loose in the courtroom as the story concludes.

Watros' performance as Annie Dutton Lewis was mesmerizing from beginning to end as she expertly transformed a heroic character into a flawed, tragic, and villainous creature. Watros departed Guiding Light in February 1998. The role was later unsuccessfully recast with actress Signy Coleman (July 1998-July 1999 and again briefly in 2003). But it is Watros' incredible performance that most resonates with viewers and that lands her in spot #5 in my list of Guiding Light's most memorable actresses.

Guiding Light's Most Memorable Opening Sequences

2009-09-03T16:27:00.000-07:00

Before I complete my list of Guiding Light's most memorable actresses, I want to take a few moments to reflect on another major element of the show.

Guiding Light has had numerous openings over the years; some good, some bad, some memorable, some not so much. Today, I highlight what I consider to be the serial's best and most memorable opening sequences.

Number 3. Guided Lightning. In 1981-1982, Guiding Light retired its staid sequence of light shining through the leaves for disco music! What an abrupt change it was for the show's loyal viewers to tune in the day the new opening sequence and theme music debuted. The new sequence featured fast, short clips of the show's characters; a new logo set against a glittering, shining gold background; and a dynamic, pulsing disco-inspired theme song. The new sequence lasted less than two years but was reflective of the sensation that Guiding Light had become at that time with stories of young love, suspense and mystery, and tattered familial relationships.

Number 2. My Guiding Light. The year 1983 was a transitionary one for Guiding Light. Gail Kobe replaced Allen Potter as Executive Producer and in the spring, Pamela Long and Richard Culliton had taken over as head writers, re-energizing the show by introducing new characters and plots and wrapping up long-dangling story threads. To reflect the changes on screen, Guiding Light retired the disco opening and replaced it with a brand-new sequence featuring clips from show and establishing shots of Springfield locations set against a slower, lush, romantic theme song. The logo remained the same. Clips in the opening sequence changed as storylines evolved and as cast members arrived and departed. The theme song was later remixed a few times such as in these 1986 and 1990 sequences. The My Guiding Light theme song was finally dropped in 1991, to be replaced by...

Number 1. Hold on to Love. Of all of Guiding Light's theme songs and opening sequences, none matched the caliber, the beauty, and the poignance of this sequence, which debuted in early 1991. Visually stunning shots of the serial's cast were accompanied by a lush, powerful musical score. Also re-established after a long absence was the image of a lighthouse, which had been featured in previous Guiding Light openings back in the 1950s and 1970s. Hold on to Love, the theme song, was remixed in 1996 with a jazz beat, much to fans' objections. The song was quickly remixed once again with a score more in tune with the original version of Hold on to Love, but with a faster beat. This opening sequence was truncated in 1997 to a short 15-second sequence featuring the lighthouse and series logo. This theme song and opening were finally retired in 2002. Nonetheless, when the Guiding Light cast took their final bow at the Daytime Emmy Awards this past week, they were accompanied by the familiar strains of Hold on to Love.

Guiding Light's Most Memorable Actresses, Part 1

2009-08-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

With only three weeks of episodes of Guiding Light remaining, I'm taking some time to reflect on some of the serial's most memorable actresses.

10. Joie Lenz as Clone Reva and Michelle Bauer. In 1998, Guiding Light heroine Reva Shayne was presumed dead after a plane crash. So her grieving lover Josh Lewis did what anyone else would do: he had Reva cloned. Thanks to a miracle growth drug (don't ask), Clone Reva (or Cleva, as she was called online) grew up quickly. And I mean quickly. Actress Joie Lenz (now known as Bethany Joy Galeotti) portrayed teenage clone Reva. Lenz so impressed the powers that be and viewers that Guiding Light brought her back later in 1998 to assume the role of heroine Michelle Bauer. Lenz's Michelle was soon teamed with mob scion Danny Santos in a popular love story. Lenz departed Guiding Light in 2000 and has since gone onto fame on One Tree Hill. Here's Lenz in a scene as the teenaged clone. Over the top story line. But a raw and riveting performance.

9. Amy Ecklund as Abigail Blume Bauer. In 1995, Reva Shayne showed up alive in Amish country after being presumed dead five years earlier. Reva, who had amnesia, was living with the Blume family and had become good friends with the Blume's young daughter, Abigail, who was deaf. In time, the sheltered and shy Abby came to Springfield and fell in love with Dr. Rick Bauer. Ecklund's performance was endearing and heartfelt. In 1997, Ecklund was presented with a powerful story wherein Abby was brutally attacked by a thug. Abby's attacker, Roy, went on trial for attempted rape but was eventually exonerated, leading to a dramatic and surprising showdown in the courtroom. Ecklund stayed with Guiding Light until the summer of 2000. Her presence in Springfield is missed.

8. Mary Stuart as Meta Bauer. Daytime legend Mary Stuart had played Joanne on Search for Tomorrow from the serial's premiere in 1951 until its cancellation in 1986. A decade later, in 1996, Stuart joined the cast of Guiding Light as Meta Bauer who had been off the canvas since the early 1970s. Stuart served as Guiding Light's matriarch until her death in early 2002. Stuart's Meta was a supporting character in every sense, offering loving advice to her family and friends and occasionally sparring with enemies, most notably her niece Michelle's biological mother. After Stuart's death in early 2002, Guiding Light paid tribute to the legendary actress. This clip features Guiding Light's beloved mantra, "There is a destiny that makes us brothers..."

7. Jane Elliot as Carrie Todd Marler. In 1981, actress Jane Elliot, fresh from her stint as bitchy Tracy Quartermaine on General Hospital, joined Guiding Light as heroine Carrie Todd, a new employee at Spaulding Enterprises. Carrie was soon paired romantically with attorney Ross Marler. In time, it was revealed that Carrie had quite a dark side: not only did she have multiple personalities, but she had also committed a number of murders. Elliot's performances were riveting and were the reason I first turned on the Light back in April 1982. Unfortunately, Elliot was fired from the serial shortly after and Carrie faded forever from Springfield in July 1982.

6. Kim Zimmer as Reva Shayne. Kim Zimmer joined the cast of Guiding Light in November 1983 and quickly garnered the interest of the show's fans. Zimmer's Reva was one-of-a-kind in every way. A dirt-poor girl from Oklahoma, Reva showed up in Springfield as a sexy schemer and, over the years, developed into a warm, loving matriarch. Zimmer was presented with lots of meaty -- and preposterous -- material over the years: She married her way through the Lewis family: patriarch HB and his sons Josh and Billy. She attempted suicide. She suffered post-partum depression. She was presumed dead a number of times. She was an amnesiac. She was Amish. She was a princess. She traveled through time. She battled cancer and leukemia. Yet, through it all, Kim Zimmer's passionate and bold portrayal of Reva Shayne earned her legions of fans and numerous Emmy awards. Here is Zimmer in one of her most memorable performance as Reva declared herself the slut of Springfield.

Well, that's the first first 5 most memorable actresses. Up next? Reva's arch-nemesis, the heart of the Bauer family, a regal baroness, a girl from the other side of the tracks, and the actress who was and is the epitome of Guiding Light.

Guiding Light: Nola and Vanessa - You Cow!

2009-08-12T19:31:00.000-07:00

Back in the early 1980s, Guiding Light featured a delicious rivalry between blue-blood Daddy's girl Vanessa Chamberlain and poor former bad girl Nola Reardon. Vanessa and Nola abhorred each other though that didn't stop Vanessa from doing the nasty with Nola's brother Tony. Things got even more complicated when Vanessa's father Henry took an interest in Nola's mom, Bea, who ran a boarding house on Seventh Street in Springfield. Then, Nola fell in love with the mysterious Quint McCord, who was eventually revealed as Henry Chamberlain's illegitimate son and, thus, Vanessa's half-brother.

In 1983, Nola and Quint got engaged and a lavish engagement party was held at the country club to celebrate the couple's engagement. And wouldn't you know it that Nola and Vanessa both showed up for the party wearing the same exact dress! The two headstrong women soon got down and dirty in a vicious cat fight. This clip features lots of weddings from Guiding Light's run. The Vanessa/Nola smackdown starts at the 3:45 mark.

The Light Dims: The End of Guiding Light

2009-08-11T20:23:00.001-07:00

Today, August 11, 2009 marked the filming of the very last episode of the daytime soap opera, Guiding Light. The finale will air on CBS on September 18, 2009. Guiding Light premiered on radio back in January 1937 and then began airing on television in June 1952. 72 years! What an amazing run!

As Guiding Light draws to its conclusion, I plan to honor this amazing show by blogging about the actors, actresses, and storylines that have touched viewers' hearts over the years. So many amazing actresses: Beverlee McKinsey, Tina Sloan, Ellen Parker, Kim Zimmer, Cynthia Watros, Mary Stuart, Charita Bauer. And outstanding actors: Chris Bernau, Grant Aleksander, Jerry VerDorn, Peter Simon. And captivating storylines: Nola Reardon's wild antics, the deaths of Bert Bauer and Maureen Bauer, Reva Shayne's escapades, Annie Dutton's reign of terror, Abby and Rick's love story.

72 years. Countless memories.

I hope you join me in the weeks ahead as I remember the greatness of this legendary television institution. As Meta Bauer (played by the late Mary Stuart) shared one holiday episode:

There is a destiny that makes us brothers.

None goes his way alone.

All that we send into the lives of others.

Comes back into our own.

LIVESTRONG Challenge

2009-07-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

In April 2003, just a few days shy of my 40th birthday, came news that would forever change my life: I was diagnosed with melanoma. Nonetheless, I was fortunate. First, my partner Eric noticed the lesion on the bottom of my foot and told me. (Due to surgeries, I am unable to see the bottom of my foot without the aid of a mirror.) Had Eric not seen the lesion and said something, there is a very good chance I wouldn't be here composing this page right now. Second, my melanoma was caught early. Now, six years have passed and the cancer has not returned.

I don't bemoan my circumstances and my diagnosis back in 2003. Rather, I'm truly grateful because it opened my eyes to the beauty, the fragility of life. It made me realize I need to pursue the dreams of my heart TODAY, not tomorrow. And that's what I've been doing. My diagnosis spurred me on to the dream that has always been on my heart: the desire to write. I've gone back to school, gotten my Master of Fine Arts in creative writing, gotten some fiction published, received and been nominated for writing awards, had over 30 arts and entertainment features published, written a play and a novel, started some new short stories, and begun work on a children's book. And, frankly, all because of my encounter with cancer in 2003.

My life has been enriched immeasurably. And I feel the need to give back. And what better way than the LIVESTRONG Challenge. So, this August, I'll be participating in the LIVESTRONG Challenge. My goal: complete the 10-mile bike ride. I'm stoked and can't wait!

To find out more and help support this cause, check here.

My Published Writings (as of July 2009)

2009-07-04T08:22:00.000-07:00

MOVIE REVIEWS (Edge Publications)

Breakfast with Scot

Dead Mary

Elvira's Movie Macabre: Maneater of Hydra, The House that Screamed

Elvira's Movie Macabre: Gamera, Super Monster, They Came from Beyond Space

Freeheld

Showgirls (New!)

Two Weeks

The Windy City Incident

BOOK REVIEWS (Edge Publications)

A Boy's Own Story

Adrift in the Land of Plenty

Assembly Required: Notes from a Deaf Gay Life

The Distance Between Us

Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys

Greetings from the Gayborhood: A Nostalgic Look at Gay Neighborhoods

The Great Cock Hunt

My Parachute is Beige: The Cubicle Dweller's Guide to Getting By

The P'Town Murders

Q Guide to Classic Monster Movies

Q Guide to Gay Beaches

Q Guide to Soap Operas

The Slow Fix

Uncle Bobby's Wedding

MUSIC REVIEWS (Edge Publications)

Dave Koz, At the Movies

Dave Koz Greatest Hits

Howard Sings Ashman

The Kinsey Sicks, Sicks! Sicks! Sicks!

This Place I Know, Stephanie J. Block (New!)

TELEVISION REVIEWS (Edge Publications)

Prisoner: Cell Block H

INTERVIEWS/PROFILES (Edge Publications)

Dina Martina

Philadelphia Gay Men's Chorus

FICTION

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Parlor Nominated for a Pushcart Prize and the storySouth Million Writers Award

To Hell and Back, Toasted Cheese

Mother's Day Weekend

2009-05-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

Well, Eric and I have quite an eventful weekend planned. First, on Saturday, we're taking our love bug, Sir Mulder, to see his "girlfriend" -- Dr. Jennifer Cromwell -- for his regular check-up. Herding a cat to take him to the vet sure ain't a pleasant task.

Then, later on Saturday, two movie classics will be meeting as we take a jaunt to Atlantic City to attend a concert. The movies? Driving Miss Daisy and Steel Magnolias. The folks involved? Me, Eric, and our friends Carol and Deb. I'll be taking on the role of Hoke, played by Morgan Freeman in Driving Miss Daisy, as I play chauffeur to three ornery southern broads. My other half will be taking on the role of the elderly Miss Daisy (played by the late Jessica Tandy in the film). I guess it's fitting since Eric will be celebrating the big 5-0 this summer. Our friend Deb will playing Ousier, the snarky, ill-tempered broad from Steel Magnolias (played by Shirley Maclaine in the movie). And Carol will be playing Clairee, played by the wonderful Olympia Dukakis in the film. I'm sure we'll all be spouting Steel Magnolias dialogue as I drive them to AC.

And the concert? Why, of course, we're going to see the one and only The B52s, my all-time favorite band. This is probably my 16th Bs concert. They're the best. It's going to be an awesome night! I first saw The B52s back in September 1992 in Holmdel, NJ. Since then, I've traveled the nation to see them: California, North Carolina, Maryland, Massachusetts, Colorado. Eric and I ran into The Bs' Kate Pierson and Fred Schneider in a bar in Colorado back in 2002 and an MTV VJ hit on me. But that's a story for another blog post.

Then, on Sunday, we're heading north to New York City with Eric's sister Chris, Chris' daughter Elisha, and Eric's niece Stephanie to see Wicked on Broadway. We're all in for a treat. It's an awesome show. And the incomparable Nicole Parker is playing the role of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West.

After that, I'm onto four days of work and then Provincetown, Massachusetts for 8 days. It's a well-needed vacation!

And coming up in the days ahead: blog posts about my mom, my love of The B52s (including some scoopage on that MTV VJ), and posts about what I consider heaven on earth: Provincetown.

Celebrating Sitcoms: Part 4 - Back to Gilligan's Island

2009-03-17T16:16:00.000-07:00

In 1965, that popular hot spot known as Gilligan's Island welcomed a popular American rock band called The Mosquitoes, who showed up on the little island for a little rest and relaxation. The castaways thought that the motley group of mop-top musicians were their salvation and, at last, a way off the island. But The Mosquitoes (Bingo, Bongo, Bango, and Irving) weren't so willing to leave the peaceful island to return to the mainland.

So the castaways devised a scheme to get off the island, a scheme that involved music groups. The men's group couldn't carry a tune at all but the women, oh, how the women could sing! Mary Ann, Lovey Howell, and Ginger formed a group called The Honeybees and sang a most groovy and hip song called "You Need Us." So, sit back and listen to The Honeybees singing. And remember, a diamond needs a ring, a prisoner needs a cell, and a queen needs a king.

And two final things:

Members of the music group The Wellingtons played some of The Mosquitoes in this episode. During Gilligan's first season, The Wellingtons sang the series' theme song.

And I'd like to pose that age-old question to those reading this blog: so whose the hotter babe? Ginger or MaryAnn? Or maybe daffy Mrs. Howell?

Celebrating Sitcoms: Part 3 - The Flintstones

2009-03-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

When Eric and I started dating back in October 1995, I mentioned to him about one of my all-time favorite episodes of the sixties animated sitcom, The Flintstones. It was an episode that Eric had never seen and he was a bit incredulous that the episode even existed and that perhaps it was all part of my fertile imagination. But then, one day, while we were in the local video store, I meandered through the family section and came across a collection of episodes of The Flintstones. And there it was! That elusive episode! So I rented it and that night, we holed up in my apartment, a very young Mulder cuddled between us, and watched the video.

So...what was so special about this episode? Well, the episode, titled "No Biz Like Show Biz" (which first aired in September 1965) was all about the Flintstones' daughter Pebbles and the Rubble's son Bamm-Bamm as the infants, who couldn't even talk, embarked on a music career. The episode was quite memorable and featured the infants singing a cute little ditty titled "Let the Sunshine In." And here's a clip of the little tykes singing that catchy tune. So check it out and sing along. And remember three important things, lessons that will make your lives much, much better:

Mothers never lose and fathers never win
When you are unhappy, the devil wears a grin
Just open up your heart and let the sunshine in!

Celebrating Sixties and Seventies Sitcoms: Part 2 - Gilligan's Island

2009-02-25T17:30:00.000-08:00

One of my all-time favorite sitcoms is Gilligan's Island, the tale of seven castaways surviving on a desert island after being shipwrecked at sea. You know the theme song and the characters: the crew of the ill-fated S.S. Minnow: Gilligan and the Skipper (aka Jonas Grumby), the millionaires Thurston and Lovey Howell, movie star Ginger Grant, and "the rest" (farm lass Mary Ann Summers and Roy Hinckley, aka the Professor). Over three seasons, the castaways had to cope with oh-so-normal events that we all face (like radioactive vegetables, mysterious doppelgangers, and a giant spider). For a desert isle, Gilligan's Island also had its fair share of unexpected visitors like jet-setter Erika Tiffany Smith (Zsa Zsa Gabor), a mad scientist able to switch brains from body to body, a jungle boy (played by a very young Kurt Russell), warring natives, a Japanese soldier who hadn't heard World War II had ended, amongst many others.

But one of the most memorable visitors was famed Hollywood film producer Harold Hecuba, played by actor Phil Silvers. Hecuba lands on the island, takes over the Howell's hut, and promptly insults Ginger when she asks for a role in his next film. To showcase Ginger's talent, the castaways mount a musical version of Shakespeare's Hamlet in hopes of (1) getting Hecuba to cast Ginger in his next film and (2) getting rescued from the island. The castaways soon take to the stage: Gilligan as Hamlet, Ginger as Ophelia, Mary Ann in drag as Laertes, the Skipper as Laertes' dad Polonius, and the Howells as Hamlet's ma and pa. (The poor Professor, obviously with little or no artistic talent, is reduced to serving as narrator/host of the production).

The castaways perform three memorable songs during the production, songs that I've been humming and singing over the past few days. Songs that I want to share with you. Be sure to check out this video to watch Gilligan, Ginger, and the rest in action.

Now, a couple closing thoughts. First, a trivia question for y'all. As I mentioned, Phil Silvers played Harold Hecuba in this episode of Gilligan's Island. Phil's daughter was later featured on another popular sitcom from 1980 to 1984. Name her and that sitcom.

Finally, I have something to share that I haven't told too many people. For many years, I've had a recurring dream that I was the eighth castaway on Gilligan's Island, trying to educate poor Gilligan, helping Mary Ann with the cooking, dishing fashion with Ginger, counting money with the Howells, and lusting over the Professor (he was a hottie back then). I guess it was my secret wish to be one of the castaways, but who knows...with my luck, I'd probably end up stranded with the survivors of Oceanic flight 815, with strange four-toed statues and mysterious smoke monsters. Hmmm, but then again, I'd be sharing the island with folks like Jack, Sawyer, and the late, lamented Boone. Not such a bad idea after all.

Celebrating Sixties and Seventies Sitcoms: Part 1 - The Lucy Show

2009-02-24T16:07:00.000-08:00

I'm a huge fan of sitcoms, especially those produced back in the 1960s and 1970s. Over the next few days, I'm going to be reflecting on some of my favorite sitcoms, particularly those that featured musical numbers.

First up is The Lucy Show. After I Love Lucy ended, Lucille Ball and Vivian Vance re-teamed in a new sitcom where Lucy played widow Lucy Carmichael and Vivian played divorcee Vivian Bagley. Lucy and Viv shared a house in Danfield, Connecticut while raising their children. After three seasons, Vance left The Lucy Show and the series was revamped with Lucy moving to California. Her children soon disappeared as the series refocused on Lucy Carmichael as a single harebrained woman coping with a tyrant of a boss (Mr. Mooney).

One of the most memorable Lucy Show episodes (first aired in 1967) dealt with Lucy and Mr. Mooney heading to the quaint, small town of Bancroft, a hamlet threatened by the imminent construction of a freeway. Like so many other activists before and after her, Lucy mobilized the town to bring a halt to the freeway construction plans. The episode (part of a special two-part episode set in Bancroft) culminated with Lucy and the denizens of Bancroft staging a triumphant protest set to music. Their anthem, "Main Street, U.S.A." is a rousing tribute to simpler times and days, and a song I often sing as I go about my day. Accompanying Lucy are singer Mel Torme as Lucy's neighbor and friend Mel Tinker and singer/dancer John Bubbles.

So stand up, put your feet on the pavement of Main Street U.S.A., and return to a time that was sweet and slow. Hope you enjoy! I know I will.

Creating Characters

2009-02-21T19:19:00.000-08:00

Back in 1986, I began envisioning a story about three fifty-something sisters, eccentric triplets named Roxie, Boodie, and Lilly Buys (the surname in honor of my then best friend). Unfortunately, the Buys triplets went nowhere. For some reason, their story failed to gel. Thus, the story quickly fell by the wayside and the triplets settled into the recesses of my mind. Over the years, I thought about the triplets from time to time but their story once again failed to materialize. Then, in the fall of 2005, I was tasked with writing a short play for my playwriting/screenwriting course at Rosemont College. For some reason, the triplets came to mind so I decided to write a play about them as they paid their final respects to their deceased mother. I opted to drop one of the siblings and gave Lilly a new name: Chessie. The play took place at a funeral home as the sisters accompanied their grandmother to their mother's funeral. My professor didn't care much for the play, especially since Boodie and Chessie were depicted as less intelligent than their grandmother. He said that it wasn't realistic because individuals grow smarter with each passing generation...something I vehemently disagreed with. For pity's sake, just look at the past eight years for evidence that not every new generation is more intelligent than its previous ones. Mini-Me aka George W. Bush was hardly more intelligent than his dad. Nonetheless, after 19 years, the Buys sisters (now renamed the Sullivan sisters) had finally made their way into the realm of fiction.

But I wasn't quite done with the sisters. When I started writing my novel Beneath in 2006, I incorporated the Sullivan twins into the plot. They appear as minor characters in chapters that were set behind the scenes at a bingo fundraiser hosted by two brassy drag queens. Boodie (real name: Boudreaux) and Chessie (Cheshire) were seventy-something residents of Provincetown, the location for my novel. The sisters, who happened to be former lawyers and proud virgins, were best buds. Chessie owned a local bookstore while Boodie spent her days growing weed in her garden. Boodie was the more outrageous of the sisters, dressed as a mermaid at the bingo fundraiser, with tassels hanging from her nipples.

It was a delight to flesh out the sisters and to see them come alive on the page. And I'm not quite done with them. They were simply minor characters in Beneath, but they're itching to have the spotlight in their own story, which is starting to gel. The sisters have been inseparable since birth, but will that strong bond continue when a nerdy twenty-something man takes an interest in Chessie? I look forward to finding out myself.

Top Five Arts/Entertainment Events of 2008

2008-12-22T16:07:00.000-08:00

This year, I've had the opportunity to see a number of concerts, musicals, cabarets, plays, etc. Listed below are the top five performing arts events that I've seen this year.

Coming in at number 5 is Whizzin'!, a new take on the classic The Wizard of Oz. In this version, Dorothy hailed from a trailer in Hyannis, Massachusetts and lived her weed-growing aunt and uncle. In this version, a virginal Dorothy suffered from some rather embarrassing urinary problems and didn't have ruby slippers, but ruby panties. Filled with lots of comedy and some great songs, Whizzin'! was a trip and one of the best productions by The fab troupe, The Gold Dust Orphans, who previously spoofed The Golden Girls and mounted a full musical production of Cleopatra. Bravo to the Orphans and their fearless leader Ryan Landry for continuing to entertain legions of fans.

At number 4 is the amazing Jimmy James. On my third visit to Provincetown back in September, I was walked along Commercial Street and saw that Jimmy James was still performing in town. I went in to a buy a ticket and met Jimmy's assistant Mick, one of the nicest guys on this planet. Mick gave me a comp ticket and then the next night, I went to see Jimmy James along with my friends Bill, Jim, and Vernon (aka Lady Di). I was speechless by night's end. Jimmy is just a fabulous performer, expertly singing in the voices of divas like Cher, Barbra, Diana Ross, Bette Davis. I can't wait to see Jimmy again. And like Mick, Jimmy James is one of the nicest guys around.

In third position is the amazing Dina Martina. I discovered Dina back in August 2006 and have become a Dina groupie. Dina is just indescribable. She usually wears too tight, too small clothing. She sports quite a cameltoe. And she mangles the English language worse than George W. Bush. But Dina, most of all, is funny as hell with her own takes on classic songs. Check her out here singing "The Greatest Love of All." I love Dina though I may never forgive her for embarrassing me in front of her New York City audience by pointing out the I was looking up her skirt at her "lady parts". How could I not when she was sitting on stage in a tiny mini-skirt with her legs wide open?

And coming in at second is the True Colors concert that we saw in Atlantic City back in June. What an unbelievable concert that lasted something like four hours. Featuring performances by my fave band of all time, The B52s and Cyndi Lauper, and a comedy routine by Rosie O'Donnell, the night was just unforgettable, truly the best concert I've ever seen.

And, finally, in first place...

Wicked, the best musical I've ever seen. Based on the popular Gregory Maguire novel, Wicked tells the story of the Wicked Witch of the West (Elphaba) and Glinda the Good Witch. The show is just amazing. From the beautiful, towering set, to the fab costumes, to amazing performances, to the beautiful music. I was touched and mesmerized from start to finish. I was fortunate enough to see the show three times this year: in March with friends Deb and John; then a few days later with my mom, sister-in-law Janet, niece Keri, and Eric; and then in July by myself. I still remember clasping hands with Deb during the song "For Good"...wanting to get up and boogie during "Dancing Through Life"....being in awe during "No One Mourns the Wicked"...feeling the triumph of "Defying Gravity". Wicked...the best musical ever!

There were lots of other highlights in 2008, including another favorite drag queen Miss Richfield 1981. Check out Miss Richfield and Cashetta on a cruise as they encounter Pepe.

My Published Writings (as of April 2009)

2008-12-14T16:59:00.000-08:00

MOVIE REVIEWS (Edge Publications)

Breakfast with Scot

Dead Mary

Elvira's Movie Macabre: Maneater of Hydra, The House that Screamed

Elvira's Movie Macabre: Gamera, Super Monster, They Came from Beyond Space

Freeheld

Two Weeks

The Windy City Incident

BOOK REVIEWS (Edge Publications)

A Boy's Own Story (New!! Added on 4/18/09)

Adrift in the Land of Plenty

Assembly Required: Notes from a Deaf Gay Life (New!! Added on 4/18/09)

The Slow Fix (New!! Added on 4/18/09)

Uncle Bobby's Wedding

MUSIC REVIEWS (Edge Publications)

Dave Koz, At the Movies

Dave Koz Greatest Hits

Howard Sings Ashman

The Kinsey Sicks, Sicks! Sicks! Sicks!

TELEVISION REVIEWS (Edge Publications)

Prisoner: Cell Block H

INTERVIEWS/PROFILES (Edge Publications)

Dina Martina

Philadelphia Gay Men's Chorus

FICTION

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Parlor Nominated for a Pushcart Prize and the storySouth Million Writers Award

To Hell and Back, Toasted Cheese

Irony

2008-09-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

About 5 1/2 years ago, in April 2003, I received news that changed my life forever: I was diagnosed with melanoma.

It all started in November 2002. My partner Eric and I were sitting in our family room, watching TV and cuddling with our cats Mulder and Tabby. My feet were up on the ottoman. Eric looked over at me and remarked, "What's that on your foot?"

On the bottom of my foot was a small purplish mark, what Eric described as something that looked like a blood blister. We kept an eye on the mark and when it didn't go away and, in fact, grew larger, I went to the doctor who recommended excising the lesion. I agreed to do so and in April 2003, I went under the scalpel and had the lesion removed. Five days later, my doctor called with the news that the lesion had tested positive for melanoma.

I was shocked yet grateful for many reasons. Shocked to find out that I had cancer at the age of 39. Grateful because Eric had spotted the lesion and mentioned it to me. Truth be told, had he not spotted the lesion, it's most likely that I would not be typing this post right now. You see, the lesion was on the bottom of what is a club foot. A foot that has undergone numerous surgeries over the years. One surgery, back in the late 1960s/early 1970s, involved the fusion of my ankle. Because my ankle is fused, I cannot see the bottom of my foot without the aid of a mirror. Had Eric not spotted the lesion and mentioned it to me, who knows how long it would have been before I learned of the lesion's existence.

I was fortunate because the melanoma was in its very earliest stages. No further treatment, no radiation, no chemo, was needed. Nonetheless, finding out that I had cancer gave me a much needed kick in the ass. I began reflecting on my life and the dreams I had forgotten or neglected. Key among those dreams was writing.

So I decided to pursue my writing anew and what a whirlwind it has been! I enrolled in Rosemont College's new MFA in creative writing program, graduating in May 2007. I had a few stories published, wrote a play and a novel, and got a freelance job as an arts and entertainment journalist for Edge Publications. It's been lots of had work yet incredibly gratifying. At last, that longtime dream of being a writer is reality.

Flash forward to July 2004. I was out in Las Vegas for my brother's wedding. While there, I bonded with my brother's longtime best friend and his wife. One night, we ran into each other in a mall and went to get something to drink and snack on in a dessert cafe. It was an amazing experience to bond with them and to share with them my experience and how it changed my life.

Flash forward to September 2008. Last night, I had a call from my aforementioned brother who filled me in on the latest happenings in his life. He then shared some news about his friend. A few months ago, his friend went in for a haircut and his barber noticed a mark on his head, right by his hairline. My brother's friend went to his doctor and soon got the news that he has melanoma. I was floored when my brother told me this, stunned by the irony and humbled by the fact that my cancer was caught early. You see, unlike me, my brother's friend didn't get good news. He is in stage 4, the final stage of melanoma. My heart breaks for him, for his family, for his friends. And I feel incredibly grateful that I was given a second chance at life, humbled anew by the chances given me.