My NYC adventure - Colleen Zenk at Feinsteins - meeting 'stars' of ATWT

I have been to New York City many times over the years, but this time was different. I was going by myself (sans husband and kids), and meeting Stephanie (my good fb friend from Chicago) in order to see one of my favourite actresses perform at a nightclub in New York City.

I was nervous for many reasons, but excited for a new adventure. This would be very personal - a wish fulfilled. It would mean keeping something special in my heart. I love the Big Apple, I love my memories of ATWT, and I love the new friendships I have made because of the love of my 'story', including Colleen Zenk. So, now it was time to explore my own personal dreams.



Colleen Zenk at Feinsteins

When I found out that Colleen Zenk would be performing her 'Still Sassy' cabaret at Feinsteins in New York City, I was determined to go. My husband couldn't take the time off work, so I was made plans to go alone. To my wonderful surprise, my friend Stephanie said she would join me. The show would be on Sunday, November 6, 2011, so I decided to treat myself to most of Saturday and Monday as well. Since I had been to New York before, I was at least confident that I could maneuver my way around well. I made arrangements to take the day off from my business on Monday (since I would be flying back to Toronto in the evening). My trip would be my birthday and Christmas present from my dear husband (who is not a soap fan, by the way).I booked my flight accordingly (leaving on Saturday morning). Then I started looking for a hotel room close to Central Park, near Feinsteins. First snag - what wasn't already fully booked was much too expensive. I didn't realize until I had done some more investigating, that the New York City marathon was on Sunday. Oh my. Well, it took me almost two weeks but I found an absolutely charming B&B on the Upper East Side at a reasonable price and location. Then to plan the rest of my itinerary for a weekend to remember. I was excited and motivated.

Mamma Mia on Broadway

I wanted to see a Broadway show. I considered 'How to Succeed in Business...' with Michael Park, but couldn't find a price I was willing to pay. Since this was MY trip, I chose to see a musical I have already seen five times over the years (four times in Toronto and once in Hamburg, Germany). I love ABBA, loved the movie (Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan are stellar), and truly consider Mamma Mia to be my favourite. I had never seen it on Broadway - so now was the time for my perfect weekend. I chose third row center. When Stephanie later decided to join me, I got her a seat very close (at least we could see each other). As an aside, I still think Colleen Zenk would be perfectly cast as Donna Sheridan. So, that would be Saturday night. Stephanie arranged her flight from Chicago so that it coincided perfectly with my arrival at LaGuardia and then we would take a taxi into Manhattan. We would arrive in the city in mid afternoon and then have time to check in, get settled and take the subway down to Fifth Avenue (for a little window gazing and a little shopping). After that we would have dinner and then head down to the theatre district and Times Square.


At the airport

Well I must say, that it all worked out perfectly. Stephanie was waiting for me when I landed, we hugged (as fb sisters should do) and then began our adventure. We took a cab from the airport to the B&B and were lucky that it only took a little while. The room was perfect (it was a renovated apartment with a full kitchen - beautiful). We were quite pleased wth the choice and hoped that everything would go as smoothly. Our innkeeper recommended Kennedy's on 57th st for dinner. He said that the Police Commissioner of NY often ate there with his friends. We took the subway down to 59th walked over to 5th Avenue and did some awesome window shopping.

Kennedys

We went into Bloomingdales and other more 'touristy' shops, bought a couple of pieces that we liked and then decided we were hungry. We took the advice we were given and went to Kennedys for dinner. It was lovely decor, good food and very reasonably priced for NYC. However, we didn't see any celebrities I think they sit in one of the back rooms. After dinner, we slowly made our way down to Times Square. The weather was perfect, bright blue sky leading to a a nice sunset, surrounded by skyscrapers and neon lights. On our way past Rockefeller Centre, we came across Cookie Monster just passing by, so I decided to ask him about his favourite cookie. He did confess that it would have to be chocolate chip.

Cookie Monster

The bright lights of Times Square were so inviting. We were in the Big Apple. I had seen it before and yet I still didn't think it was gaudy - it was just the charm and excitement of New York City. It was almost time for Mamma Mia, so we headed over to the Wintergarden Theatre. Of course, the show was as good as I expected it to be even though the lead role was being played by the understudy for that evening. How I wished it could have been Colleen Zenk. Well, maybe the next time I go to NYC, it will be. In any case, I was pleased that Stephanie enjoyed it - she had never seen it before. Mamma Mia is a show about strong women, love, family and fun. And, of course ABBA songs are so uplifting and part of MY youth.  And Stephanie was so gracious wih me. Although she had never been to NYC before, she let me do all the things that I wanted to do. You will see what I am talking about when I describe the next day.

On Broadway

So far, we had been in the Big Apple for about eight hours, but were truly enjoying our time together and the whole New York experience. It was also 'cool' to be without our husbands for the first time - ever. It was really 'girly-girly' fun. We walked around Times Square, went into a Broadway shop where I picked up a souvenir for my Drama teacher son, and then happened upon the theatre where 'How to Succeed...' was playing. We walked up to the stage door where we saw someone signing autographs. At firt I thought it might be Michael Park, but this man was much taller. It was John Laroquette. He was quite close to me, but had just finished, said, "Goodnight" and left. He seemed to be very nice to his fans for the brief moment we saw him. We asked about Michael Park but were told that he had already left. 



Cafe Lalo



It was now after 11:00pm but the streets were filled with tourists and New Yorkers. We hailed a taxi and drove to the Upper West side to Cafe Lalo where we had dessert and a delicious fruit drink. Now, I have to explain something here. My favourite movie is 'You've Got Mail' and this little cafe is where Meg Ryan meets Tom Hanks (not realizing that he is her internet friend). It was a great thrill to, not only re-visit a favourite location but it was a beautiful night, even a little warm and we were truly having a great time. It was after midnight, but the place was packed. It was open until 4:00am. Stephanie and I felt like we were part of the New York 'scene'. It was fun. And the wait staff and the patrons were all so friendly. Starting (and I mean just 'starting') to get tired, we took a cab back to the Upper East side, going through Central Park, to the B&B. My lil' sis (that's what I call Stephanie) and I had some fun 'girl talk' before we went to sleep. It had been a long but fantastic day. I was a little happy that I also got an extra hour of sleep because of the time change - Stephanie got two hours because she is from Chicago.

Sunday morning, we met one of Stephanie's friends from Team Colleen for breakfast at Rue 57. They had been friends for over a year, but had never met face to face. It was a sweet meeting, full of stories and exciting thoughts about Colleen's show in the evening.We had a lovely breakfast before we separated and Stephanie and I headed out for a day on the Upper West side, following a few places that I wanted to revisit. We passed by the fences and even police with riot gear that were set up around Central Park for the marathon (which had already started). I figured that by staying on the Upper West Side, we would not encounter too much traffic or interference from the marathon. It wasn't until later in the afternoon that our true adventure began.

As I said before, my favourite movie of the last 20 years, is You've Got Mail. Poor Stephanie was dragged to the building (now a small cafe) that was the bookstore, then north on Broadway and Columbas Ave to Zabars (the grocery store) and then to Grays Papaya (for their famous hot dog). At least I didn't drag her all the way to 97th Street Riverside Park (the final scene of the movie). It was a glorious day - warm, bright blue sky and I was very warm in my winter coat. By pure luck, we happened upon a flea market that had unique items, vintage clothes, and antique books. Of course I bought on for my husband, (the book collector). Iit was a first edition for $6.00. They had so many ecclectic and interesting items - not junk, just treasures.

By 4pm, we wanted to get to the East side, but Central Park was completely blocked with the finish line of the marathon. By the time we realized that all the runners would probably want taxis, and that it might be a problem to get back to the B&B to get ready for Colleen Zenk's show, we were starting to get pressed for time. We walked several blocks further west and then several blocks north in order to try to grab a cab, but had to wait for half an hour before we were lucky. And then, the poor driver couldn't get across to the east side. He finally let us go, and we had to walk and walk and walk. But we did it. Stephanie had taken off her shoes and was walking in her socks. When we finally grabbed a cab on the east side, we were still 14 blocks away. We made it back and had twenty minutes to get ready to go to Feinsteins. It didn't matter. we were so excited that we were very happy that we had had an adventure . 

We arrived at Feinsteins just after 6pm and met with other friends of Stephanie's. It was nice to see Team Colleen together to enjoy the show. We had a lovely dinner. Phillip Katz (Colleen's publicist) came to the table and talked with us for a while. He is a very nice, gentle man. I got the impression that he was excited about the future. Trent Dawson sat at a table near us and I also saw Christopher Goutman, Damon L. Jacobs and Roger Newcomb. I was determined that I would speak to Roger Newcomb about my feelings and gratitude for the DVD sets. When Colleen Zenk came on stage, the whole room was immediately surrounded with the love and joyous adoration of the audiencefor a true 'star'. Colleen Zenk in Still Sassy was a beautiful reflection through song (and a little dance) of a life well lived - from performing in talent shows as a child, to coming to New York and pursuing dreams on Broadway, to playing the fantastic Barbara Ryan on ATWT for over 30 years. Still Sassy was full of memories of family, loves, loss and battles with cancer intermingled with a career that gave pleasure to her audience for a very long time.



Colleen Zenk

Colleen Zenk is indeed an extraordinary woman beyond compare. So, yes, I believe that Colleen Zenk is 'very classy and still sassy'. To me Colleen represents what every woman should aspire to: an independent woman with strength and sincerity, a personality that is sexy yet classy, and a warm smile that conveys integrity and humor, intelligence and determination. Not only is Colleen Zenk a talented actress and performer, but a wonderful mother and mentor, cancer survivor and an awe-inspiring advocate for oral cancer screening. It is so endearing to her fans that Colleen Zenk embraced their efforts to get her on Dancing with the Stars, and always speaks so lovingly about her cast mates as 'family' and fought the battle against cancer that all of us fear. Still Sassy celebrates her whole life and future. This performance celebrates everything that is to be admired about this lovely lady. I feel so fortunate that I was able to see this particluar show. Thank you, Colleen. It was absolutely a wonderful tribute to your life. Of course, I so thoroughly enjoyed the show that I was mezmerized by the moments and the surroundings. It was surreal to think that I was so close to someone I had never met but felt close to since 1979.



Trent Dawson
(Henry Coleman)

After an encore and a great deal of applause, Colleen Zenk left the stage and was speaking to her friends in the audience at the other side of the room. Trent Dawson was sitting quite close to me, so I summoned up all my courage, and went over to his table. I introduced myself to him and told him that I had been a fan of ATWT for 50 years. Trent Dawson's eyes widened as he said, "Oh my" almost as if he didn't believe me, but I continued to tell him how much I enjoyed his performance as his character, Henry Coleman. I was immediately taken with this charming man's smile and graciousness.  I talked with him about his role as Henry and he recounted how much he enjoyed his time on ATWT and his relationships with the other cast members. He talked about how very pleased he was that the writers had decided to pair him with Colleen Zenk as his love interest. I could see the sincere love he had for Colleen, not to mention that he has a great voice when he performed a duet with her. It was lovely. I am a very shy person; and Trent made me feel so comfortable. I hope he has an awesome future as an actor - however, there will never be another Henry Coleman, unless he is played by Trent Dawson. After I left, Christopher Goutman went over to Trent and talked for a bit.  

 

Roger Newcomb

It was absolutely thrilling that I also had the opportunity and honour to meet Roger Newcomb, editor of We Love Soaps and also the directorial editor of the soapclassics As The World Turns DVDs. I am so grateful to this young man for all he has done to preserve the memories of the only soap I watched for 50 years. I noticed that he had stood up and was getting ready to leave, so once again I put on my brave face and went over to him. I was a bit surprised when he instantly knew who I was when I introduced myself to him. He actually hugged me. I told him how happy and very grateful I was that he had been responsible for the DVDs. We talked for several minutes and I was so pleased when his big smile led to the confession that he had watched ATWT with his grandmother and that he had very fond memories of it. He told me that if sales go well, then the future will see many more sets as well as the on-line streaming. I had spent one year trying to get respect and honour for ATWT; and Roger Newcomb was making it all possible. I really, really liked him. He was so genuine and sweet.

Colleen Zenk

 

Apparently, while I was talking to Roger Newcomb, Colleen Zenk had come over to the table, looking to meet me. When I returned, Colleen was speaking to someone else, but when she came back, I was immediately taken with her her smile and of course her eyes. I stammered something like, "I have known you as Barbara for over thrirty years", I don't know what else I should have said, but she made me feel very comfortable and at ease- as though I was talking to a friend. However, as always the case when you meet a celebrity, I forgot to say how I felt, especially how much I admired her for the way she  beat cancer. I also didn't get the chance to say how I loved the way she was able to portary all the different personifications of Barbara Ryan's very interesting character - from young igenue and victimized wife to controlling mother and vindictive 'bitch' , to cancer survivor and finally to vulnerable but strong 'cougar'. We talked for several minutes about the show and the fact that she was moving to Manhattan. She also talked about the ATWT DVDs and promised a surprise in the near future. It was such a pleasure to meet this lovely lady. It was a night to remember.

 

After we left Feinsteins, I had a feeling of 'it's over' but it was more like a 'goodnight, not a goodbye'. Now that I had made a connection, I felt at ease and full of happiness. It had been a wonderful experience and one I would always cherish. Stephanie and I went to Rue 57 for a scrumptuous piece of cake and then walked around New York City before hailing a taxi and going back to the B&B. Of course, we had another 'girl-talk' session before turning in. Stephanie and I had become good friends over the internet; and now had shared a lovely time in New York City. Monday morning, we did a bit more shopping -touristy things for my grandchildren from FAO Swartz and the American Girl store for Stephanie's daughter. It was fun. Just before we headed to the airport, we spent some time in Central Park.

 

Who could ask for a more perfect ending to our NYC adventure then going to Central Park. It was a lovely fall day and we had hot dogs and a very stale soft pretzel. We sat on a bench and reflected on our experience. It was a little bittersweet, because we both knew that this was a once in a life-time trip, but we are also determined to do it again, sometime. And we will. I wonder if the next time we will see Eileen Fulton, Martha Byrne or Michael park. And of course, I would love to go back to New York to see Colleen Zenk in Mamma Mia. Until we meet again, "goodnight, not goodbye".

 

Angie in NYC

 

 

 

 

 

As The World Turns Fan Appreciation

 As you are very aware, the serial drama genre, in the form of storytelling, is disappearing from daytime viewing in favour of 'reality' and 'talk'  television. Actors, writers and crews of the family generational scripted drama are losing, not only their livliehood, but have been subject to disrespect by executives. The time-honoured craft of the daily serial drama will also soon be lost, forever. The 'stories' or 'soaps' focused on family, social and relationship issues, as well as some pretty interesting (and sometimes even contrived) storylines that gave viewers a look into a little bit of fantasy, intermingled with a lot of 'reel-life' drama of middle America. As a result of the rich history (especially with the P&G and CBS soaps) the 'stories' closely mirrored 'real-life' drama, that were pat of viewers daily life all over the world. Fans of soaps watched their 'stories' for decades; and also had pleasure in relating to the actors and their characters, not only on screen, but by the articles in print media and fan clubs.

 When our 'soaps' disappeared, the fans of GL and ATWT wrote letters to CBS, P&G and signed petitions, held rallies, embraced campaigns to find new homes and basically 'mourned' the losses of daily 'pleasures'. For months, social media sites such as facebook and twitter were a welcome place where we could all get together and say, "We miss our soap. PLEASE bring it back". In February, after Oprah Winfrey expressed an interest in 'soaps', we started a group to ask Oprah to consider embracing ATWT and GL. We were looking for, at least, reruns of HQ full classic episodes (better than what is available on YouTube), or a soap talk show with Martha Byrne as host. We were not expecting the 'moon and the stars' ; but we also hoped that she could convince P&G to sell or lease the rights and perhaps even have 30 minute, once a week new production of our favourite shows. But then in April, just as we were about to approach Ms. Winfrey, there was a tremendous furor over the cancellation of two ABC soaps, and so Oprah said a resounding, "No" to helping the entire genre. Our group lent support to the coupon campaign and the efforts by many of the other ABC fan fb groups in getting the message across that the the fans were extremely upset. It was gratifying to see that even the Wall Street Journal ran a front-page article about saving the genre and the fan displeasure. Just as, several months later, ATWT and GL fans were getting ready to resume our efforts with P&G because we still didn't have an answer as to why they have refused to sell the rights to the shows, a new group was started in September 2011, Keeping As The World Turns Alive'. It was amazing to see that although ATWT was already gone from the television screen for one year, many of it's loyal and devoted fans found a warm, welcoming and special place to share their memories, trivia, fan fiction and just talk, talk, talk to each other about our As The World Turns. We have fun and are indeed 'keeping ATWT alive' for one another. But, we still wondered what was going on behind closed doors; and we  optimistically hoped that something wonderful could happen. Reruns on cable or even DVDs would give fans their memories and would also should respect to the time-honoured family generational serial drama. I, personally also hoped for a deal similar to the Prospect Park plan with AMC and OLTL. I digress, but wouldn't it be great if ATWT and GL could be resurrected in some way on the net?

We still needed some indication that someone (anyone) could give some consideration and perhaps some acknowledgement that fans and the soaps that they loved, still matter. It would make a tremendous impact to millions of soap fans that are feeling that they are in 'limbo' with their daytime viewing preferences. Soap fans do not want talk shows or reality television, they want quality scripted continuing dramas. 

And then, in early October, everything started to fall into place. It seemed as though, from one day to the next, we found out that Procter & Gamble had indeed sold the rights to their classic soaps; and that they would be distributing them internationally. Wow!!! We were not expecting that. So, yes, it was done behind closed doors; and I personally wanted to congratulate P&G for having come to the right decision. It was about time. A mere two weeks later, on Thursday October 13, 2011, it was announced, through We Love Soaps, that a DVD collection had been produced by soapclassics. Mark Yates and Broadway Video had made a deal with P&G and had now given fans an early Christmas present. And that is exactly what it is. I ordered my DVD set the first night; and am still waiting for it to arrive. What an absolutely wonderful way to start a reinvention of the soap opera genre. Oprah Winfrey - eat your heart out - you said, "no" and may now regret it. I am so happy that Mark Yates, Roger Newcomb and all the wonderful people who worked behind the scenes (I have a pretty good idea that one of my favourite actors from ATWT may also have been involved) had a vision for the future of As The World Turns and other classic soaps. These DVDs are not only very reasonably priced at $19.95 but they are high quality, remastered complete episodes, split into categories that bring back all the memories of one of the best 'soap operas' - ever. Fans can now relive their favourite Oakdale moments by buying the collection at http://www.soapclassics.com/. If fans show an interest (which they already have) then more DVDs will be produced. Who knows what the future will hold for fans of ATWT. KUDOS, from a devoted fan of fifty years. I am looking to the future of ATWT with a renewed sense of wonder and love. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Angie T.

Eileen Fulton - The first 'bad girl' of Daytime - Lisa

Eileen Fulton
Born	Margaret Elizabeth McLarty September 13, 1933 (1933-09-13) (age 78) Asheville, North Carolina
Residence	New York City
Years active	1960-present
Spouse	Bill Cochrane (1957) (Divorced) Danny Fortunato (1971-1980) (Divorced) Rick McMorrow (1989)(Divorced)
Website
http://www.eileenfultononline.com

Eileen Fulton was born Margaret Elizabeth McLarty on September 13, 1933 in Asheville, North Carolina. She is known for her role as Lisa Grimaldi on the CBS soap opera, As The World Turns, a role that she played almost continuously for 50 years from May 18, 1960 until the show's cancellation and finale on September 17, 2010.  (Wikipedia)


My first introduction to As The World Turns was when my mother introduced me to incomparable, Lisa Miller. I was seven years old and my mother would tell me of all the antics that 'our adorable little minx' would get herself involved with. As a child, I didn't understand the innuendos and nuances of the unwise choices Lisa made. I really didn't see much of the daily discussions with her mother-in-law, Nancy and Bob's sister Penny. It was more what my mother said about Lisa that made me understand the unique personality that would celebrate 50 years as a character that will forever personify the very best of the daytime serial drama.

Lisa Miller was an intregal part of the Hughes family even after she and Bob divorced. It was Eileen Fulton who brought the character to life in Oakdale, Illinois. We loved Lisa because of her brilliant portrayal for 50 years.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46FUx-7SGzg&feature=related

Now, when Eileen Fulton was hired to play the young Lisa Miller, Irna Phillips only wanted Lisa as a distraction for Bob to date him while in medical school and to cause a bit of conflict when the Hughes family didn't approve of the relationship. But Eileen was so convincing and personable, she ingratiated herself with Iran and the entire cast, especially Helen Wagner. As Lou Grant in the Mary Tayler Moore says of Mary Richards, "she has spunk - I like spunk". It was the same in 1960 for Eileen Fulton.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inojH_HR4xY&feature=related   4/18/1961 Part 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfatgilFuKY&feature=related  Part 2

What I enjoyed most about Lisa was that she was totally unpredictable, yet always sincere. She said what she thought, even though she would get in trouble for it. I would like to give you two testamonials to Lisa/Eileen which express how a remarkable lady was able to work her way into our hearts.

I honestly can't say there's one favorite memory. GL, ATWT, Another World, and Search for Tomorrow played an active role in my life since early childhood and continued until the "current" final curtain of ATWT. I've never chosen one particular episode over another, instead I was drawn to and guided by the characters.  GL brought Reva with all her spunk, spit, fire and determination. She wasn't from the "right side of the tracks" financially, but she had the heart of lion and her sheer gut for succeeding, and demostrated the "True Southern Woman" in all our Glory, Class and Charm. ATWT brought to my world, Lisa. What a remarkable individual. She paved the path for business women and taught this "old girl", when it comes to men, how not to be anyone's doormat. You never had to guess where Lisa stood - she'd tell you in a minute. She fought many a fight and didn't always win the battle - but she always won the war.

These women never gave up on their goals. They fell down, pulled themselves up by their boot straps and tackled their problems with a renewed vigilance. The lessons learned from these women contributed to my life professionally and personally. Their value to my life is unmeasurable. They weren't "just entertainment", but a learning tool by which to measure integrity, understand the meaning of heartache, and learn the love of laughter.         Dewanna Allgood

Soap Opera Hall of Fame 1998

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvqbF1qcfQI&feature=related

In September 1998 she was inducted into the Soap Opera Hall of Fame. Fulton has also appeared in five independent films which earned her the Achievement in Television and Film Award at the Independent Filmmakers Award ceremony. In 2003, she was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the TV Academy during the 31st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards.

 

40 Years of Lisa and Bob - 2000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbOu8Q9eb1U    Part 2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzuTC8LlS60&feature=related  Part 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQaACGGCi5g&feature=related  Part 4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wdO7ZOEWDs&feature=related  Part 5

Here is the 50th anniversary of Lisa in Oakdale - 2010

Among other roles (including the Broadway productions of The Fantasticks and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?), Eileen Fulton is most famous for her role as Lisa Grimaldi on the CBS soap opera As the World Turns, a role she has played almost continually (with two notable interruptions) since May 16, 1960. The character of Lisa has been married eight times, divorced three times and widowed four times (with her most recent marraige annulled) making her full name Lisa Miller Hughes Eldridge Shea Coleman McColl Mitchell Grimaldi Chedwyn. Her portrayal of Lisa created the strongest prototype of its time for the daytime vixen/bitch; the character and actress were, in Fulton's first decades on ATWT, very popular (to the point where, in the late 1960s, Eileen Fulton had to hire a publicist, the first soap actress to do so). And, despite her popularity, she run has not been without controversy; during the early 1970s, Eileen Fulton was noted for insisting it be written into her contract that her character could not become a grandmother. (She feared it would impede the glamorous, fast-paced storylines in which she was involved at the time.) As a result, the actress received enormous amounts of "hate mail" when Lisa's onscreen daughter-in-law, Margo, had a miscarriage in 1986. (It is unclear whether the "granny clause", as it became known as, was still in effect at the time.) Now in her seventies, Eileen Fulton no longer has the "granny clause" in her contract; her character has two sons -- a third son died a number of years ago -- and four grandchildren. 1990 TV Guide, featuring Eileen Fulton on the cover. She left the show twice - first in 1965 to bring her Lisa character to her own primetime soap spinoff, "Our Private World" (CBS's attempt to mimic the success of ABC's "Peyton Place"). "Our Private World" lasted less than a season, and she took several months off before returning to "As the World Turns" in early 1966. She left again in 1983 after a contract dispute with executive producer Mary-Ellis Bunim, returning the next year. Although the character of Lisa is still appearing on the show, Eileen Fulton has been vocal about her displeasure at not being more prominently featured. In particular, she lashed out in print at then-head writer Hogan Sheffer in 2004 about her lack of airtime. Eileen Fulton was prominently featured in April 2006 during the show's 50th anniversary episode, and from January 2008 to August 2008, was seen in at least two episodes per week. Her appearances dropped off after that time, although she was again featured in a two-part tribute episode in May 2010, and remained on the show through its cancellation, appearing in the final episode in September 2010. 

Eileen Fulton has written two memoirs, 'How My World Turns' and 'As My World Still Turns'. She also wrote a mystery novel, called Soap Opera, loosely based on her experiences at As the World Turns. She is also a singer, and performs a number of cabaret and nightclub acts, in addition to her acting.

Eileen Fulton is a 1955 graduate of Greensboro College and was granted an honorary doctorate in 2005, on the fiftieth anniversary of her college graduation. She was the commencement speaker at Greensboro's graduation ceremony in 2005.

CABARET SCENES

Eileen Fulton

I Remember...or at least I try

Don't Tell Mama
New York, NY

http://www.cabaretscenes.org/cabaret_reviews/2010/dec10/fulton_eileen_12-10.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Do7NKS6lCTw&feature=related

EILEEN FULTON: DAYTIME DRAMA QUEEN SUPREME

By Paul Freeman [May 2011 Interview]

If we were going to crown a queen of daytime drama, Eileen Fulton would be the obvious choice. For 50 years, she brought life to the character “As The World Turns” audiences loved to hate - Lisa Grimaldi.

Fulton’s colorful, nuanced, richly textured performance made the character consistently fascinating for half a century.

http://www.popcultureclassics.com/eileen_fulton.html

Eileen Fulton Joins Terrence Mann in "My Fair Lady" Cast at UConn

http://blogs.courant.com/curtain/2011/06/eileen-fulton-joins-my-fair-la.html

Happy Birthday

Eileen Fulton

September 13, 2011

Love, Angie

The younger generation and ATWT - Part 2

It is my opinion that today's youth is in trouble. By trouble, I mean loss of family values, the good things in life, creativity, community and a true sense of belonging to society. Everything is "ME, ME, ME". Personal iphones, very impersonal social media sites like facebook (which I love, by the way) and twitter have replaced face-to-face discourse, debate and actual contact with others. Childhood and teenaged problems and issues haven't really changed, but society has dictated that information is now presented in hyped-up reality programming; and no longer offered in the form of intelligent scripted drama. If it is not horror, vampires, disgusting fascination with serial killers and murder, the youth don't seem to be interested. And the adults are letting it happen.

Queen Latifah

To get unto my soapbox for a minute, I want to get back to something I wrote about before - namely, the People's Choice Awards last October 2010. I was absolutely appalled at the lack of respect to anyone over the age of thirty. When I saw Queen Latifah literally jump up and down on stage when she was introducing the three 'stars' of the Twilight movies, I was completely 'turned off' (I know that term probably isn't used anymore, but the only few new words I know are OMG and ROFL). Well, I am not ROFL. I am saddened.

We are now reading books, (if we read at all) on small computer screens, rather than curling up with a leather-bound, exquisite novel. We privately download or have Pay per View, rather than going out with our friends to the Movie Theater. Everything is solitary. There are no more impromptu get-togethers at a local jazz club or coffee house to hear a new group play for free. My husband told me that he was lucky enough to see Kris Kristofferson in 'jam session' with a few other artists in downtown Toronto. Yes, yes, yes, I know - that was in the '60's and times have changed. Today, if you want to see an actual artist perform, you can't even buy a ticket for under $100.00. There is nothing free or affordable for our youth, anymore. Instead, they use their money to buy technology. Games and apps have replaced being part of a live performance. Gone are the days where parents either bought their children tickets as birthday presents; or else a child would save up his or her allowance money for many months ahead. It used to be special - an event for which a girl needed a new outfit. And if it was a date, it was talked about for weeks before. But, a child also had to get good grades on a report card, or there would be no surprise, and no special privileges. And that brings me to my major stumbling block when it comes to the younger generation, now.

It is called a 'false sense of entitlement'. I have found that, especially in the last ten years, it is more and more evident. There is no waiting for 'wants' - children demand and receive whatever they want, whenever they want it. And parents 'entitle' their children by being guilted into accepting their demands. It is not even so much a demand for attention from the youth in the fast-paced, uncaring society, it is more a lack of respect for the older generation, authority and common courtesy. It is like George Orwell's '1984', where Big Brother (not the television show) is 'watching' everything. The whole society has become paranoid that the youth is not getting noticed. It is definitely not that "children should be seen and not heard". Society has 'achieved' (through a long and very unwelcome process) the opposite. It is all about who is younger, faster, and more 'entitled'. I know it may sound harsh, and I hope I am wrong, but I worry, especially for my grandchildren.

Dan Rather made a point about news programming and how it has changed. He stated that people are more interested in a news item about Paris Hilton, than a serious report about something happening in Paris, France. I can guarantee you that if you ask many (and I mean, many) Americans, "where is Paris?", they will not only think that you are talking about a so-called celebrity, but they will not know that it is in Europe -(a funny aside - I actually saw a video recently where a reporter asked what the 4th of July meant? - many Americans answered, "it's just a holiday" but didn't know why it was celebrated). Seriously????



Holden & Lily


One of the reasons that I loved my 'story', As The World Turns, is because that particular serial drama was always able to respect and honour the younger generation with poignant, realistic storylines that can stand the test of time and is not representative of the current 'dumbing down' of America and society itself. I could never imagine Luke being rude to his grandmother or Liberty disrespecting her professor. Even Holden would never have dreamed of being disrespectful to his employer. Addressing Miss Lily Walsh as "Ma'am" was and is the polite manner of speaking.


The best way I can highlight the changes (for the better or worse) with the portrayal of the younger characters on As The World over the last 25 years, revolve around the introduction of the Snyder family and the issues and problems with the siblings and their offspring. Whether it was Lily's snobbish attitude when first meeting the 'dumb' (as she called him) stable boy, Holden or Luke's reluctance to talk to his parents about his sexuality and bullying, there were many times that family relationships took precedent over glossing over the feelings of the children of the families of Oakdale. I must say that the one time that I was completely disinterested and actually unimpressed in a storyline, was when  the 'slasher' episodes of a  few summers ago were shown. That was just silliness and not at all 'in tune' with the flow and history of the show. Other than that, I never had any issues wit the way the younger generation was portrayed.


Jennifer Landon (Gwen),Colleen Zenk
(hiding in the corner as 'snoopy' Mom in law
 and Marnie Schulenberg (Allison)


For the most part, children and adolescents, their feelings, concerns and issues have been adequately to well portrayed on ATWT. The stories have been empathetic, relevant; and proved that, when there is a strong family support system (like the Snyder parents), young people 'matter' but are also not necessarily 'entitled' unnecessarily. Teenage pregnancy, dealing with cancer, grief over the loss of a family member, bullying, gambling, drug addiction and alcoholism, homosexuality, mental illness, incest and sexuality have been handled in a mature, compassionate manner on ATWT.

There is no comparison when it comes to how societal  issues that affect young people are shown on a serial drama, and what the new reality shows can even hope to deal with. As far as I am concerned, I would much rather watch a continuing scripted drama of a young man like Parker Snyder (who has to come to terms with his feelings for a young woman who is conflicted about love, sex, pregnancy, parentage, young marriage, career goals, loss of a father, birth of a sibling and of course, fear of death from cancer), than listen to a ten minute discussion on some talk or reality show.



Martha Byrne and Jon Hensley

Of course, there is no talking about As The World Turns and 'young' people and their problems, without highlighting the ultimate teenage super couple that made the transition from adolescence into adulthood and parenthood. It was the superb insight of Douglas Marland and the portrayal of Lily and Holden by the phenomenal, Martha Byrne and Jon Hensley that 'made' ATWT a favourite for viewers of every age. Here is the first meeting of Lily and Holden in October 1985. Lily acts very superior and doesn't like Holden's attitude.

It was a bit of a surprise to me when I saw Emma's attitude when Meg came home in 1986. I know that Meg was sent away to live with other relatives because the family couldn't afford to keep her at the farm, but it just seemed a bit too unconventional for even 1986.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKci4yJctv8



Jon Hensley

Here is a compilation of short clips from 1985 -1988 about the 'on again- off again' relationship between Lily & Holden. So many feelings showed how they matured and dealt with trust, other relationships and their interpretations of not only how things should be but the reality of the situations.



Martha Byrne

In 1987 Lucinda tried to convince Lily that Holden was no good and that he was just after her money. Lily didn't want to  believe her mother and was not willing to accept that Holden might have had ulterior motives for 'loving' her. It is sad to see how Lucinda could manipulate Lily's feelings and make the young girl even more conflicted. A lot of Lily's insecurities were a direct result of Lucinda's controlling manipulation of her daughter's feelings.





Van Hansis as Luke Snyder

Luke 'came out' to Holden and Lily by revealing how he had pretended to be involved with Jade, so that his parents wouldn't be disappointed in him. Lily was upset because Luke had lied. Holden didn't know how he could, on the one hand support his son's choice, and on the other hand, understand the anguish of Luke's feelings. It is always hard for a parent to be able to deal with issues that are so personal and conflicted. Holden was able to show his concern because he had already wondered about Luke's true feelings; but Lily was not accepting at first, mainly because Luke had not been honest and trusting that his mother would understand him. After this, Lily had more problems accepting the future and was even convinced by Damian to try to 'change' Luke. After a while, everything fell into place and Holden and Lily embraced Luke's decision and also supported both Noah and Reid's involvement with their son.



Marie Wilson as Meg

While Lily was dealing with her own 'ghosts', 'skeletons' and insecurities, turning to a diet pill addiction, she and Holden were also confronted with Faith's adolescent 'angst' and subsequent substance abuse. Although both Emma and Lucinda took a 'back-seat' when it came to their involvement with the grandchildren, it was always understood that their presence was there and would be counted if matters dictated their involvement. It was always felt that the family would be there in a crisis. This was also seen when Meg was in turmoil with Paul and Damian and her precious baby. Emma was there to take care of her 'damaged' daughter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaRxx0oY7rM&list=FLUututYgHm2smw14DmdqpiQ&index=1&feature=plpp

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruUAZj6dMFA&feature=related

Carly and her son, Parker

Over the last ten years, As The World Turns turned it's attention to several of the families to show how the 'world turns' also with the cycle of life. There were births, deaths and an inter-generational family support. As in the '80's where the teen aged stories involving Frannie, Marci, and Kirk were highlighted, so now was a new crop of young people dealing with pregnancy, school, new love, sexuality and money problems. Most were also involved either directly or indirectly in the problems of their parents' divorces and new relationships. As in real life, the family dynamic was changing. The younger generation was given more responsibility, independence; and seemed to pull away from their situations and circumstances at home. There was lack of communication, trust and acceptance of other people and points of view. Advice from parents and grandparents was often not as valued or sought out as it used to be, perhaps because of this separation of the core units into many different family models. It was the same, but different (if that makes sense).



Casey, Maddie,
Gwen & Will

Although it wasn't the Snyders, Will Munson also had his share of problems as he was growing into maturity. It started with his breakdown (when he wanted to hurt Rose and killed her with poison to keep her away from his brother) and continued when he got together with Casey, Maddie and Gwen. Gwen & Will. Gwen was a girl from the wrong side of the tracks got involved with an irresponsible, Casey and became pregnant. When Gwen found Will, it was as f they were meant for one another. And they both turned their lives around in a positive way, but not without a lot life experiences and trauma along the way.

Similarly, Maddie, Henry's sister flittered with several relationships and school friends before she settled into her own niche. Casey, on the other hand, never really seemed to fit in until he had settled his gambling problem and had some time in jail. Even then he had a problem with committing to a relationship with Allison because he was afraid of past feelings that she had with several different men (including his uncle, Chris).



Parker kisses a reluctant Liberty



In the last couple of years the children of Carly and Jack were torn between their parents and other families, thinking that Carly was dying, believing that Jack was dead and other family traumas that young people have to cope with before they are really ready. After getting married much too young in order to get money from his inheritance the relationship is strained between Parker and Liberty ; and although they try to be cordial, they are uncomfortable around each other . The video below also shows how the Snyder children are told that Holden had died. Dealing with the death of a parent is perhaps the hardest trial a child has to endure.

Finally, I would like to conclude this particular blog about the younger generation with a hope for the future. I see the hope exemplified in the young actors who have expertly portrayed these roles for quite a while. Martha Byrne, Jon Hensley, Julianne Moore and Meg Ryan grew up on As The World Turns. It is a testament to their abilities as consummate actors to make the viewer believe that these characters were real. Van Hansis, Jake Silbermann, Billy Magnussen, Jesse Sofer, Mick Hazen, Jennifer Landon, Alexandra Chandro and Meredith Hagner prove their their acting skills not only determine the roles they played but also will ensure great futures in whatever they choose as careers (acting or otherwise). Bravo for showing realistic 'portraits' of the younger generation past and present. Based upon what the history has shown, the long-time viewer of ATWT, know that these young people will have not only a bright 'real' future but would also have had a bright 'reel' future.

 

FOR SOMETHING UNRELATED TO THE YOUNGER GENERATION BUT RELATED TO THE GENERAL THEME OF EXPERIENCING LIFE IN TODAY'S GENERATION, I CONCUR WITH THE THEME PRESENTED -  AS AN OLD GRANNY, I URGE THE YOUNG PEOPLE TO TAKE NOTE:

An Obituary printed in the London Times.....Absolutely Brilliant !!!
Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend,   Common Sense , who has been with us for many years.

No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape.

He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as:
- Knowing when to come in out of the rain;
- Why the early bird gets the worm;
- Life isn't always fair;
- and maybe it was my fault.
 
Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you can earn) and reliable strategies (adults, not children, are in charge).

His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place.

Reports of a 6-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.
 
Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job that they themselves had failed to do in disciplining their unruly children.

It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer sun lotion or an aspirin to a student; but could not inform parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.
 
Common Sense lost the will to live as the churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims.
 
Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar could sue you for assault.
 
Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.
 
Common Sense was preceded in death, by his parents, Truth and Trust, by his wife, Discretion, by his daughter, Responsibility, and by his son, Reason.

He is survived by his 4 stepbrothers;
I Know My Rights
I Want It Now
Someone Else Is To Blame
I'm A Victim
 
Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone.

If you still remember him, pass this on.

If not, join the majority and do nothing.  

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