What are you for Halloween?
Of course our Roommate Tippy-Toed (John---weighs all of 94 pounds and is a Size 0) is playing Tinkerbell.
We are going as Star Trekk guys who have captured TiNKeR-BELL (TNKR-BELL), an alien, and taking her back to the past.
Very funny. We can't even get her outta the bar much less the atmosphere of this planet to the Mother Ship!
Rented the costumes last night in a store filled with adults scrambling for ideas. I also have Spock ears!
We are going to some new swanky restaurant at 9pm.
What are you doing???
For a great new song go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Da3qrozMv4 and hear Marilyn Manson singing This Is Halloween from A Nightmare Before Christmas Re-Release!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
National Philanthropy Day
According to Wikipedia: One who practices philanthropy may be called a philanthropist. Although such individuals are often rich, people may perform philanthropic acts without possessing great wealth.
------------
I gave this speech this morning with the help of my fantastic BNI Group, the Buckhead Business Network International (10/28/2008):
Good Morning, I'm Ray Macon. Today we have no paragraphs of wisdom. Nothing to refer-to, or look-at, or read. We all know this stuff already! The Founder of BNI, Ivan Misner, is probably somewhere giving this same wisdom today, a lesson about the Rubber Chicken Network.
Today is one of those "Nationally Recognized Days" can anyone tell me what its themed? Today is a very big day for a very big industry in the USA. I'll give you a hint: fundraisers will benefit on this day.
Today is National Philanthropy Day. Fundraising is a big business in the United States. These people who spearhead such Non Profits are great salesmen and women and have no problem walking into the biggest skyscraper and asking the Biggest Company "Whose In Charge? We need..."
Today the Atlanta Kiwanis Club is sponsoring the event at the Georgia World Congress Center.
I'm going. I've volunteered. Why? Well, for starters, a group of great people like that, who are always planning events to help other people, need programs. They need posters, sandwich boards, thank-you notes. They need to know a printer who can save them money. More than anything, they need good hearted volunteers.
Ivan Misner, the Founder of BNI, recognized that some of his Inner Circle Friends were involved in some difficult professions---who did he know who could use their services? Referrals were hard to give to some of these friends! So he got out there, to the small clubs, worked with others in charity events, and raised money for causes.
He got invited to speak at a local business club, similar to the Kiwanis. This led to other opportunities. Many of these organizations are looking for speakers to fill their calendars.
Misner seized the opportunity, and so today we are doing an experiment for him.
Each of us are involved in Service Organizations, and I'd like us to list them. These are the Boy Scouts, the Atlanta Fundraising Professionals, what are the others?
(KIM BRINKMAN writes on Dry Erase Board)
Cub Scouts/ Boy & Girl Scouts/
These are great because you're sitting around watching them instruct your kids. You've tied that knot before. I tell you, men & women can get business this way, sharing the burden of boredom. Why not talk business? Ask "...what do you do for a living, Bob?"
Men & Women Against Domestic Violence
Volunteer at a place like this, and you'll make some friends. People are moved to "give up their stories". But when you hear about a person's struggle and really listen---they remember. What a better way to break through the 7 layers of trust, mention your business. These people have a compassion to help others. And they will help you.
Breast Cancer Walk
Last year I staked a place at the middle of the Finish Line on the Susan Komen Foundation 3-Day Walk from Athens to Atlanta. I clapped until my hands hurt. Women would hug me, and kiss me on the cheek. I didn't know who they were, but some of them gave me a set of tears.
By appreciating a struggle we become a part of it.
(BNI Group lists some other non-profits)
So you see, opportunity awaits each of us. I'd like to close today with a story:
Just two weeks ago I volunteered to hand-out water at a race/walk for charity. I worked shoulder-to-shoulder with a man who let me bid on his Organization's printing last season, but he didn't pick me to do his printing.
After our volunteer work was finished, he promised to let me bid again. I think this time I have a better chance.
I'm Ray Macon. Enjoy National Philanthropy Day.
------------
I gave this speech this morning with the help of my fantastic BNI Group, the Buckhead Business Network International (10/28/2008):
Good Morning, I'm Ray Macon. Today we have no paragraphs of wisdom. Nothing to refer-to, or look-at, or read. We all know this stuff already! The Founder of BNI, Ivan Misner, is probably somewhere giving this same wisdom today, a lesson about the Rubber Chicken Network.
Today is one of those "Nationally Recognized Days" can anyone tell me what its themed? Today is a very big day for a very big industry in the USA. I'll give you a hint: fundraisers will benefit on this day.
Today is National Philanthropy Day. Fundraising is a big business in the United States. These people who spearhead such Non Profits are great salesmen and women and have no problem walking into the biggest skyscraper and asking the Biggest Company "Whose In Charge? We need..."
Today the Atlanta Kiwanis Club is sponsoring the event at the Georgia World Congress Center.
I'm going. I've volunteered. Why? Well, for starters, a group of great people like that, who are always planning events to help other people, need programs. They need posters, sandwich boards, thank-you notes. They need to know a printer who can save them money. More than anything, they need good hearted volunteers.
Ivan Misner, the Founder of BNI, recognized that some of his Inner Circle Friends were involved in some difficult professions---who did he know who could use their services? Referrals were hard to give to some of these friends! So he got out there, to the small clubs, worked with others in charity events, and raised money for causes.
He got invited to speak at a local business club, similar to the Kiwanis. This led to other opportunities. Many of these organizations are looking for speakers to fill their calendars.
Misner seized the opportunity, and so today we are doing an experiment for him.
Each of us are involved in Service Organizations, and I'd like us to list them. These are the Boy Scouts, the Atlanta Fundraising Professionals, what are the others?
(KIM BRINKMAN writes on Dry Erase Board)
Cub Scouts/ Boy & Girl Scouts/
These are great because you're sitting around watching them instruct your kids. You've tied that knot before. I tell you, men & women can get business this way, sharing the burden of boredom. Why not talk business? Ask "...what do you do for a living, Bob?"
Men & Women Against Domestic Violence
Volunteer at a place like this, and you'll make some friends. People are moved to "give up their stories". But when you hear about a person's struggle and really listen---they remember. What a better way to break through the 7 layers of trust, mention your business. These people have a compassion to help others. And they will help you.
Breast Cancer Walk
Last year I staked a place at the middle of the Finish Line on the Susan Komen Foundation 3-Day Walk from Athens to Atlanta. I clapped until my hands hurt. Women would hug me, and kiss me on the cheek. I didn't know who they were, but some of them gave me a set of tears.
By appreciating a struggle we become a part of it.
(BNI Group lists some other non-profits)
So you see, opportunity awaits each of us. I'd like to close today with a story:
Just two weeks ago I volunteered to hand-out water at a race/walk for charity. I worked shoulder-to-shoulder with a man who let me bid on his Organization's printing last season, but he didn't pick me to do his printing.
After our volunteer work was finished, he promised to let me bid again. I think this time I have a better chance.
I'm Ray Macon. Enjoy National Philanthropy Day.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Clearing-up some small details
Today our softball practice was cancelled due to the standing water on the fields. It would have been our first practice; getting ready for the Hurricane Showdown Tournament in Ft. Lauderdale.
Anyway, now I've got plenty of time to go and workout. Also I figured I would use the day to get a bunch of stuff ready for Phillip King, my Editor.
We continue to get interest in the Applause for Anger project. If you know of someone who might be interested, have them email me teamedward@yahoo.com
Anyway, now I've got plenty of time to go and workout. Also I figured I would use the day to get a bunch of stuff ready for Phillip King, my Editor.
We continue to get interest in the Applause for Anger project. If you know of someone who might be interested, have them email me teamedward@yahoo.com
Friday, October 24, 2008
Welcome Tommy Sweeny, Author of the Jacaranda
The following is an excerpt from Jacaranda, by Tommy Sweeny. I read it years ago and promised to use it in my books if ever I got published.
The story is self-explanatory, two people meeting while one is on vacation.
Jacaranda
To what angel do I yield?
That day I leaned on the trunk of that tree –you were miles away
. . . across that purple city
– I photographed some ants toting the violet blooms down the trunk
to their hiding space
and I wondered what we would have for dinner
later that evening when I returned home
and would surely have to knock, key or not, as the doors and the
keys down in your country are strange.
Do they eat those, I wondered.
Those purple buds –those tokens of the time we shared -- those symbols of your city.
They carried them on their backs like they were going to a feast.
We clung together as in a dream.
We cling together now from separate hemispheres.
Distance is discipline.
To what stern teacher do I aim
my gratitude for this lesson in fortitude?
Nothing is now nor ever has been as sweet
as the misery of continents.
(continued http://www.applauseforanger.blogspot.com/ )
The story is self-explanatory, two people meeting while one is on vacation.
Jacaranda
To what angel do I yield?
That day I leaned on the trunk of that tree –you were miles away
. . . across that purple city
– I photographed some ants toting the violet blooms down the trunk
to their hiding space
and I wondered what we would have for dinner
later that evening when I returned home
and would surely have to knock, key or not, as the doors and the
keys down in your country are strange.
Do they eat those, I wondered.
Those purple buds –those tokens of the time we shared -- those symbols of your city.
They carried them on their backs like they were going to a feast.
We clung together as in a dream.
We cling together now from separate hemispheres.
Distance is discipline.
To what stern teacher do I aim
my gratitude for this lesson in fortitude?
Nothing is now nor ever has been as sweet
as the misery of continents.
(continued http://www.applauseforanger.blogspot.com/ )
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Call for Submissions APPLAUSE for ANGER
We have started a collaborative book project.
If you know of someone who would like to make a short submission, have them email me.
The study is called Applause For Anger, and we are looking for short stories, poetry, and artwork. So far we have some great additions to the project.
The theme is beauty in anger, and the transmission of anger to strength.
raymacon@gmail.com
If you know of someone who would like to make a short submission, have them email me.
The study is called Applause For Anger, and we are looking for short stories, poetry, and artwork. So far we have some great additions to the project.
The theme is beauty in anger, and the transmission of anger to strength.
raymacon@gmail.com
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Ear Candy: "Anti" by John Brown
If you want to hear an underground song that will "...stick with you during these rough times", listen to "ANTI" by our close friend John Brown.
http://www.pappanutt.com/
http://www.pappanutt.com/
Educational Moment/ BNI 10/21/2008
This morning I had to give a 3-minute Educational Moment to our Buckhead Business Network.
---------------------
Good Morning, I'm Ray Macon.
Today we are taking a short reading from Brian Tracy's book Be a Sales Superstar.
Brian grabs Dale Carnegie's coat tails and advises:
"...practice positive self talk continually. Control your inner dialogue. Talk to yourself the way you want to be rather the the way you are today. For example..."
Now this is going to seem like the corniest stuff you've ever heard at 7:22am!
"...repeat to yourself, I Fell Happy, I Feel Healthy, I Feel Terrific.
Remember 95% of our emotions are determined the way you think to yourself, most of the time. The way you feel determines how you behave.
And how you behave determines how much you sell." (Courtesy Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc.)
Now I'm going to try and read your Inner Radios. I cannot. It's impossible to know the way you are thinking. So we cannot Coach Each Other to get better at it.
In fact, today the only scientific method, and is it even scientific(?) to understand your attitude is ask the old cliche' (pointing to glass on table) is this object, Half Full or Half Empty? It's a parable, a theorem for measuring your Outlook on Life.
I mentioned Dale Carnegie has anyone in the room taken a Dale Carnegie Course? In that course they teach you a phrase. Oh my gosh I've been so brain damaged by it, but it does work:
"If I think enthusiastic, I will be enthusiastic."
You're supposed to repeat that all the time before a sales call. Just before getting off the elevator, say it. It puts you in a peppy mood, and people want to buy from people who are peppy about their products.
My mother used to leave Post-It Notes around the house. Especially on the mirrors in the bathroom. I Love Myself. I Am a Good Person. I Deserve the Best.
She didn't need them for herself. See--she had already mastered the art of controlling her inner dialogue. She wanted other people to look at themselves in the mirror and want to say that.
I will close today with this one thought for you in this difficult economy. Maybe that's your one concern, but it's eating you up. You are thinking in your own radio "I'm just hangin' on by a shoestring."
I ask: are you hangin' on by a shoestring or are you A SURVIVOR?
Yes, you've surrounded yourself with success driven people and they--- too--- are Survivors!
I'm Ray Macon. ...and for the Record: I'm a Good Person.
---------------------
Good Morning, I'm Ray Macon.
Today we are taking a short reading from Brian Tracy's book Be a Sales Superstar.
Brian grabs Dale Carnegie's coat tails and advises:
"...practice positive self talk continually. Control your inner dialogue. Talk to yourself the way you want to be rather the the way you are today. For example..."
Now this is going to seem like the corniest stuff you've ever heard at 7:22am!
"...repeat to yourself, I Fell Happy, I Feel Healthy, I Feel Terrific.
Remember 95% of our emotions are determined the way you think to yourself, most of the time. The way you feel determines how you behave.
And how you behave determines how much you sell." (Courtesy Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc.)
Now I'm going to try and read your Inner Radios. I cannot. It's impossible to know the way you are thinking. So we cannot Coach Each Other to get better at it.
In fact, today the only scientific method, and is it even scientific(?) to understand your attitude is ask the old cliche' (pointing to glass on table) is this object, Half Full or Half Empty? It's a parable, a theorem for measuring your Outlook on Life.
I mentioned Dale Carnegie has anyone in the room taken a Dale Carnegie Course? In that course they teach you a phrase. Oh my gosh I've been so brain damaged by it, but it does work:
"If I think enthusiastic, I will be enthusiastic."
You're supposed to repeat that all the time before a sales call. Just before getting off the elevator, say it. It puts you in a peppy mood, and people want to buy from people who are peppy about their products.
My mother used to leave Post-It Notes around the house. Especially on the mirrors in the bathroom. I Love Myself. I Am a Good Person. I Deserve the Best.
She didn't need them for herself. See--she had already mastered the art of controlling her inner dialogue. She wanted other people to look at themselves in the mirror and want to say that.
I will close today with this one thought for you in this difficult economy. Maybe that's your one concern, but it's eating you up. You are thinking in your own radio "I'm just hangin' on by a shoestring."
I ask: are you hangin' on by a shoestring or are you A SURVIVOR?
Yes, you've surrounded yourself with success driven people and they--- too--- are Survivors!
I'm Ray Macon. ...and for the Record: I'm a Good Person.
Compliment and Kind Words from new Friend/Writer Elaine Callahan
Ray,
Hey!
I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciated your education advice this morning at the BNI meeting. Good advice, especially now.
I had read on yourblog your parents were Dale Carnegie instructors, but I wasn't sure if you were just pulling our leg! :)
All the best,
Elaine
Callahan Design
Hey!
I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciated your education advice this morning at the BNI meeting. Good advice, especially now.
I had read on yourblog your parents were Dale Carnegie instructors, but I wasn't sure if you were just pulling our leg! :)
All the best,
Elaine
Callahan Design
Monday, October 20, 2008
Poems with Issues
I'm trying to include Tommy Sweeny's lengthy poem, The Jacaranda, in my collection of Poems with Issues, APPLAUSE for ANGER. It's a great story about loving someone a half a world away.
The Site: It's R-Rated for Language. To take a peek, go to the following blog:
http://applauseforanger.blogspot.com/
The Site: It's R-Rated for Language. To take a peek, go to the following blog:
http://applauseforanger.blogspot.com/
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Networking-A play by Ray Macon
This site will be running in a few days. I apologize but I'm now writing off of three different PCs. The one containing 30 pages of Networking-the Play isn't' as yet playing along with others.
For a preview of this ridiculously real story about Professionals who network, go to
http://www.networkingplay.blogspot.com
For a preview of this ridiculously real story about Professionals who network, go to
http://www.networkingplay.blogspot.com
Song from Extravagance: Deluxe, like the Vacuum!
This is the scene where Margeaux has become very sick with her cancer, and husband David attempts to raise her spirits. The song is very rhythmic. The mood is happy, an instant party where things are pulled from the back of the stage like a closet. At the end of the song, the audience will see Danny, who "comes out" to his parents. They embrace him, and the song stands as a parable to "...use or lose it.", even love?
Narrator
Time, time, time!
(Orchestration: Let’s go Deluxe)
David
Too much reality, too many sames.
I want, well—the Ritz, but for now I’ll take
A tux
A top hat
A good song
Anything deluxe!
MARGEAUX
I want to have a party, a place for
You and me
To celebrate the doldrums
The Days of Winter
Let’s reach deep inside us
Deluxe!
DAVID
Deluxe? Like the vacuum?
MARGEAUX
Exactly!
DAVID
Deluxe? Stored in a closet?
MARGEAUX and MAID
Yes! Deluxe! There for the Taking! Deluxe!
MARGEAUX
Always there. Unnoticed!
Like a great Couture with feathers
The closet surely a Netherworld of Rare wear Pain
CHORUS of MAIDS
The cedar! The scent of Old yet Cedar
The dress in the back of the closet
You always meant to wear!
Now it wastes away.
There!
In the closet!
DAVID
Deluxe?
Stored in a closet?
MARGEAUX and MAIDS
Yes! Deluxe!
There for the Taking!
Deluxe!
MARGEAUX
Always there. Unnoticed!
Like a great Couture with feathers
The closet surely a
Netherworld
of Rare wear
Pain!
CHORUS
Let’s go deluxe!
It’s about good storage!
Deluxe!
It’s the “…one day, I’ll use it,
To toss would be abuse it,” pain!
Deluxe!
And yes, just like the vacuum,
These maxims
are drivin’ us mad!
MARGEAUX and DAVID
(in full regalia, dressed formally)
Deluxe, like the sayin’
These clothes were made for prayin’
And wearing for special ‘casions
DAVID
Deluxe! Not just for storage
Or a Pity Party Porridge
The things we really should ‘cast aside?
I’m for givin’ it a once, then ‘bide.
MARGEAUX
Deluxe, like the sayin’
These clothes were made for savin’
And wearing for special ‘casions
(spoken)
Lookie here, what we have?
The parcel’s unopened…
A cancelled stamp marked Hobokken!
Look! A wild and feathery hat!
DAVID & CHORUS
Well, that’s Deluxe!
Throw it back into the closet, who knows?
One day sure it’ll make deposit
Or make a smart investor row!
To last until the show!
To last until the show!
Voices Offstage
Margeaux!
Margeaux!
Last until the show.
Last until the show!
(small Orchestral break)
DAVID
(picking-up the silence as something he’s missed…)
That’s Deluxe, store it!
Someday would be worth some bucks?
To toss would be “Ahhw shucks!”
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
CHORUS
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
The choices we make, Baby burn!
This Life’s a Run From Funeral Urn!
Better to have chosen Deluxe.
Better to have chosen Deluxe!
Time is just a seethin’
Pulled from closets,
disbelievin’…
It’s Poor Taste from where you’re bleedin’!
MARGEAUX
Mothballs.
Highballs.
Musty smell…Tennis Balls?
Oh yeah I feel Deluxe!
DAVID
Suck it up!
You’re my favorite Dame
For you I’ll play these games…
MARGEAUX
The Games? The games stored in the closet?
DAVID
(He peers inside the closet, and a light appears across 3 faves…)
Life? Clue? Sorry!
MARGEAUX
(spoken)
Well played!
And that’s the way it goes.
DAVID
…too much reality! Too many sames.
Wanted a Ritz but was Shot Down in Flames
For the moment I’d take
Some quiet time
A good tux MARGEAUX
A baseball hat… a Good Song!
DAVID
That’s Deluxe, store it!
Someday would be worth some bucks?
It’s not a thing, but Luck!
To toss would be “Ahhw shucks!”
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
CHORUS
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
The choices we make, Baby burn!
This Life’s a Run From Funeral Urn!
Better to have chosen Deluxe.
Better to have chosen Deluxe!
COMPANY
Time is just a seethin’
Pulled from closets,
disbelievin’…
It’s Poor Taste from
where you’re bleedin’!
MARGEAUX
(spoken)
…excuse me Staff and David and Family and Family of Dogs.
I guess…we’re having a party!
A Deluxe Party.
STAFF
(…looking aghast but playing along)
Smalltalk
DAVID
Like the Vacuum...the Deluxe?
Stored in the closet?
STAFF
(Giving them odd looks, they disperse)
DAVID
(to Margeaux)
…it’s always there.
MARGEAUX
(knowing he is speaking of their love)
Unnoticed…in the back, but still with you.
DAVID
…the stacking and storing
MARGEAUX
…of Love?
DAVID
…of wealth!
MARGEAUX
…too much stored in a closet!
DAVID
…and for Love?
MARGEAUX
…too much stored in a closet!
DAVID
…the stacking and storing away.
(spoken)
I’d rather not deal with some things.
MARGEAUX and DAVID
Too much Guilt overflowing these closets!
This closet we call Our Love?
(Orchestral break, whose feeling should express “are we meant to stay together?”)
The closet suddenly opens to reveal DANNY, at the direct back, sitting on the floor.
DANNY
Mom? Dad?
MARGEAUX
Danny?
DAVID
My Son. You’ve been gone…so long.
(DAVID falls to his knees, sobbing)
MARGEAUX
(through tears)
My Darling!
Welcome Home.
I’m so sorry.
So very, very, sorry.”
We love you just the way you are, and always will.
DAVID
(mumbling)
Yes, yes…
(weeping)
MARGEAUX and DANNY
Too much emotion
…stored in a closet.
Too much Guilt.
Stacked, neatly stored away.
I’ve reached a New Time.
I want to move forward.
MARGEAUX DANNY
I’ll change! I’ll choose!
…Deluxe!
…and get over this Pain!
CHORUS
Better choose Deluxe!
Better learn Deluxe!
Time is just a seethin’
Certain disbelieving’
Rotten, smelly Closet Guest…
Better choose Truth!
COMPANY
I see you chose Deluxe!
Deluxe, like the sayin’
These clothes were made for prayin’
And wearing for special ‘casions
DAVID & CHORUS
Well, that’s Deluxe!
Throw it back into the closet, who knows?
One day sure it’ll make deposit
Or make a smart investor row!
COMPANY
To last until the show!
To last until the show!
Voices Offstage
Margeaux!
Margeaux!
DAVID
(insisting MARGEAUX and DANNY hug him as tight as possible, the next lines are partially sang and spoken)
That’s Deluxe,we stored it!
Maybe not so worth such bucks?
It’s not a thing, but Luck!
To toss would’ve been “Ahhw shucks!”
…and even when Life Sucks
You’ll always be Deluxe!
COMPANY
Deluxe,we stored it!
Incalculable bucks?
It’s not a thing, but Luck!
…and even when Life Sucks
You’ll always be Deluxe!
You’ll always be Deluxe!
(Orchestral fade)
(whispered, fading…)
…and now to the Crossing!
Time, time, time!
(Orchestration: Let’s go Deluxe)
David
Too much reality, too many sames.
I want, well—the Ritz, but for now I’ll take
A tux
A top hat
A good song
Anything deluxe!
MARGEAUX
I want to have a party, a place for
You and me
To celebrate the doldrums
The Days of Winter
Let’s reach deep inside us
Deluxe!
DAVID
Deluxe? Like the vacuum?
MARGEAUX
Exactly!
DAVID
Deluxe? Stored in a closet?
MARGEAUX and MAID
Yes! Deluxe! There for the Taking! Deluxe!
MARGEAUX
Always there. Unnoticed!
Like a great Couture with feathers
The closet surely a Netherworld of Rare wear Pain
CHORUS of MAIDS
The cedar! The scent of Old yet Cedar
The dress in the back of the closet
You always meant to wear!
Now it wastes away.
There!
In the closet!
DAVID
Deluxe?
Stored in a closet?
MARGEAUX and MAIDS
Yes! Deluxe!
There for the Taking!
Deluxe!
MARGEAUX
Always there. Unnoticed!
Like a great Couture with feathers
The closet surely a
Netherworld
of Rare wear
Pain!
CHORUS
Let’s go deluxe!
It’s about good storage!
Deluxe!
It’s the “…one day, I’ll use it,
To toss would be abuse it,” pain!
Deluxe!
And yes, just like the vacuum,
These maxims
are drivin’ us mad!
MARGEAUX and DAVID
(in full regalia, dressed formally)
Deluxe, like the sayin’
These clothes were made for prayin’
And wearing for special ‘casions
DAVID
Deluxe! Not just for storage
Or a Pity Party Porridge
The things we really should ‘cast aside?
I’m for givin’ it a once, then ‘bide.
MARGEAUX
Deluxe, like the sayin’
These clothes were made for savin’
And wearing for special ‘casions
(spoken)
Lookie here, what we have?
The parcel’s unopened…
A cancelled stamp marked Hobokken!
Look! A wild and feathery hat!
DAVID & CHORUS
Well, that’s Deluxe!
Throw it back into the closet, who knows?
One day sure it’ll make deposit
Or make a smart investor row!
To last until the show!
To last until the show!
Voices Offstage
Margeaux!
Margeaux!
Last until the show.
Last until the show!
(small Orchestral break)
DAVID
(picking-up the silence as something he’s missed…)
That’s Deluxe, store it!
Someday would be worth some bucks?
To toss would be “Ahhw shucks!”
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
CHORUS
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
The choices we make, Baby burn!
This Life’s a Run From Funeral Urn!
Better to have chosen Deluxe.
Better to have chosen Deluxe!
Time is just a seethin’
Pulled from closets,
disbelievin’…
It’s Poor Taste from where you’re bleedin’!
MARGEAUX
Mothballs.
Highballs.
Musty smell…Tennis Balls?
Oh yeah I feel Deluxe!
DAVID
Suck it up!
You’re my favorite Dame
For you I’ll play these games…
MARGEAUX
The Games? The games stored in the closet?
DAVID
(He peers inside the closet, and a light appears across 3 faves…)
Life? Clue? Sorry!
MARGEAUX
(spoken)
Well played!
And that’s the way it goes.
DAVID
…too much reality! Too many sames.
Wanted a Ritz but was Shot Down in Flames
For the moment I’d take
Some quiet time
A good tux MARGEAUX
A baseball hat… a Good Song!
DAVID
That’s Deluxe, store it!
Someday would be worth some bucks?
It’s not a thing, but Luck!
To toss would be “Ahhw shucks!”
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
CHORUS
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
You coulda’ been Deluxe!
The choices we make, Baby burn!
This Life’s a Run From Funeral Urn!
Better to have chosen Deluxe.
Better to have chosen Deluxe!
COMPANY
Time is just a seethin’
Pulled from closets,
disbelievin’…
It’s Poor Taste from
where you’re bleedin’!
MARGEAUX
(spoken)
…excuse me Staff and David and Family and Family of Dogs.
I guess…we’re having a party!
A Deluxe Party.
STAFF
(…looking aghast but playing along)
Smalltalk
DAVID
Like the Vacuum...the Deluxe?
Stored in the closet?
STAFF
(Giving them odd looks, they disperse)
DAVID
(to Margeaux)
…it’s always there.
MARGEAUX
(knowing he is speaking of their love)
Unnoticed…in the back, but still with you.
DAVID
…the stacking and storing
MARGEAUX
…of Love?
DAVID
…of wealth!
MARGEAUX
…too much stored in a closet!
DAVID
…and for Love?
MARGEAUX
…too much stored in a closet!
DAVID
…the stacking and storing away.
(spoken)
I’d rather not deal with some things.
MARGEAUX and DAVID
Too much Guilt overflowing these closets!
This closet we call Our Love?
(Orchestral break, whose feeling should express “are we meant to stay together?”)
The closet suddenly opens to reveal DANNY, at the direct back, sitting on the floor.
DANNY
Mom? Dad?
MARGEAUX
Danny?
DAVID
My Son. You’ve been gone…so long.
(DAVID falls to his knees, sobbing)
MARGEAUX
(through tears)
My Darling!
Welcome Home.
I’m so sorry.
So very, very, sorry.”
We love you just the way you are, and always will.
DAVID
(mumbling)
Yes, yes…
(weeping)
MARGEAUX and DANNY
Too much emotion
…stored in a closet.
Too much Guilt.
Stacked, neatly stored away.
I’ve reached a New Time.
I want to move forward.
MARGEAUX DANNY
I’ll change! I’ll choose!
…Deluxe!
…and get over this Pain!
CHORUS
Better choose Deluxe!
Better learn Deluxe!
Time is just a seethin’
Certain disbelieving’
Rotten, smelly Closet Guest…
Better choose Truth!
COMPANY
I see you chose Deluxe!
Deluxe, like the sayin’
These clothes were made for prayin’
And wearing for special ‘casions
DAVID & CHORUS
Well, that’s Deluxe!
Throw it back into the closet, who knows?
One day sure it’ll make deposit
Or make a smart investor row!
COMPANY
To last until the show!
To last until the show!
Voices Offstage
Margeaux!
Margeaux!
DAVID
(insisting MARGEAUX and DANNY hug him as tight as possible, the next lines are partially sang and spoken)
That’s Deluxe,we stored it!
Maybe not so worth such bucks?
It’s not a thing, but Luck!
To toss would’ve been “Ahhw shucks!”
…and even when Life Sucks
You’ll always be Deluxe!
COMPANY
Deluxe,we stored it!
Incalculable bucks?
It’s not a thing, but Luck!
…and even when Life Sucks
You’ll always be Deluxe!
You’ll always be Deluxe!
(Orchestral fade)
(whispered, fading…)
…and now to the Crossing!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
Working on Stuff for Editor
This week I have a personal deadline to get some stuff over to my Editor Phillip King.
To read a preview of my story, Manley, with Horns! go to this blog: http://www.raymacon.blogspot.com
To read a preview of my story, Manley, with Horns! go to this blog: http://www.raymacon.blogspot.com
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Just Ask for It-A Lesson From Atlanta Cotillion
I played the role of Vale Camile "Cammy" Beauchamps at the end of an exhausting 7 fundraiser parties which lead to 2007's Atlanta Cotillion Benefiting AID Atlanta.
There's a magic 3-letter word that was taught to me by The Members.
The word itself---ASK---seemed insanely simple. However, in the World of Business, this one word of advice has evoked millions and millions in exchanged dollars.
That year I made a lot of speeches on the Atlanta Networking Circuit, using these as opportunities to rally others for the Cotillion's cause. Most parties were $20.---not a lot to pay for catered food, cocktails, and entertainment.
From business breakfasts to charity functions I invited people to these small parties. We had two fashion events (including Designer Bill Hallman and Actor Princess Charles) a block party, a gambling night on 7/7/7 and a couple of others things that are now blurred in retrospect.
Around town I made my pitch as to how the strength of a real service organization was shown in the number of people It could help who arrived at the front door, when help was needed most.
I retold a story of how AID Atlanta actually took a homeless man to Piedmont Hospital and paid for some $5,000 in emergency care. Homeless people view GLBT Service Organizations as people empathetic to their cause. This is a good thing.
The monies raised during the Cotillion Season go to help in extra moments like that, when quick money is unavailable.
One day, at the end of my Cotillion Fundraising Season in 2007, an older gentleman, a bank president, came up to me after a speech. He asked "...how much do you have, and how much do you need to make your goal?"
"I have $22,000---want to raise at least $25,000" I smiled.
"Follow me to my car," he said, and there wrote me a $3,000 check. He got tears in his eyes, "...your speech, it, uh, moved me."
That's when I realized that asking was the first step in getting to the big help!
MORE: Stay Tuned for Discussion of The Lucky (Break) Principle
There's a magic 3-letter word that was taught to me by The Members.
The word itself---ASK---seemed insanely simple. However, in the World of Business, this one word of advice has evoked millions and millions in exchanged dollars.
That year I made a lot of speeches on the Atlanta Networking Circuit, using these as opportunities to rally others for the Cotillion's cause. Most parties were $20.---not a lot to pay for catered food, cocktails, and entertainment.
From business breakfasts to charity functions I invited people to these small parties. We had two fashion events (including Designer Bill Hallman and Actor Princess Charles) a block party, a gambling night on 7/7/7 and a couple of others things that are now blurred in retrospect.
Around town I made my pitch as to how the strength of a real service organization was shown in the number of people It could help who arrived at the front door, when help was needed most.
I retold a story of how AID Atlanta actually took a homeless man to Piedmont Hospital and paid for some $5,000 in emergency care. Homeless people view GLBT Service Organizations as people empathetic to their cause. This is a good thing.
The monies raised during the Cotillion Season go to help in extra moments like that, when quick money is unavailable.
One day, at the end of my Cotillion Fundraising Season in 2007, an older gentleman, a bank president, came up to me after a speech. He asked "...how much do you have, and how much do you need to make your goal?"
"I have $22,000---want to raise at least $25,000" I smiled.
"Follow me to my car," he said, and there wrote me a $3,000 check. He got tears in his eyes, "...your speech, it, uh, moved me."
That's when I realized that asking was the first step in getting to the big help!
MORE: Stay Tuned for Discussion of The Lucky (Break) Principle
Monday, October 6, 2008
Update: Extravagance play
There's two more transitions needed for Act 1. Other than that, it's brilliant.
The 2nd Act sucks. It has to have more written into it. I'm currently worried about the 2nd Act.
I am trying to get it ready for Composer Larry Court.
By the way Larry Court took me around Outwrite Books the other day with Owner/Friend Phillip Rafshoon. He gave me 3 of his books and a CD of his music, sang by an Angel of a Tenor.
It's great to know writers, musicians and artists.
The 2nd Act sucks. It has to have more written into it. I'm currently worried about the 2nd Act.
I am trying to get it ready for Composer Larry Court.
By the way Larry Court took me around Outwrite Books the other day with Owner/Friend Phillip Rafshoon. He gave me 3 of his books and a CD of his music, sang by an Angel of a Tenor.
It's great to know writers, musicians and artists.
They Tossed TippyToed and Bench Pressed Him
Our Renter TT and I watched the RUGBY TEAMS play on Saturday, near Little 5 Points. Atlanta Bucks VS the Nashville Something.
What a great time, seeing all these guys with their tree trunk legs all hugging and pushing each other around the field! It's rough, though!
They do these head on the shoulders lifts, and several other rules we had to figure out on our own. "What's he doing?" "Where's the ball?" "We have the ball , right?" and "Why'd they do THAT for?" ...was the common confused theme!
Anyway they are playing Charlotte North Cackalacky on the 25th..Saturday at 1pm at Sammy Coen Middle School. We'll be leaving from my house at 12:15 so we can catch the warm-up. Usually the event is followed by a big beer drinking fiesta at FROG'S.
Last Saturday the guys tossed 94 pound John (Pissant/TippyToed in HSL) up and about. One guy, who looked as Irish as one of your Grandfathers, BENCHED HIM, in front of the crowd!
So yesterday TT awoke with bruises on his legs. Anyway, that's gotta make the Calendar! And it's FREE.
----------
Also next Sunday from 2-5pm each of our Fall Ball Teams have to "give up a team member stripper" to dance on the bar at BJ Roosters (LaVista/Cheshire Bridge) against the other teams. This should be a blast! Each of the 9 teams have to have speedos which match a "best costume" is being given. The Red team has already threatened their hunk would be wearing red sequins on his trunks!
From Dark Green----We volunteered TippyToed because he can fit into an earring sleeve and look like it's too big for him! Anyway, he's acting like he doesn't want to do it, but what a HAM! Hope you guys can make it!
What a great time, seeing all these guys with their tree trunk legs all hugging and pushing each other around the field! It's rough, though!
They do these head on the shoulders lifts, and several other rules we had to figure out on our own. "What's he doing?" "Where's the ball?" "We have the ball , right?" and "Why'd they do THAT for?" ...was the common confused theme!
Anyway they are playing Charlotte North Cackalacky on the 25th..Saturday at 1pm at Sammy Coen Middle School. We'll be leaving from my house at 12:15 so we can catch the warm-up. Usually the event is followed by a big beer drinking fiesta at FROG'S.
Last Saturday the guys tossed 94 pound John (Pissant/TippyToed in HSL) up and about. One guy, who looked as Irish as one of your Grandfathers, BENCHED HIM, in front of the crowd!
So yesterday TT awoke with bruises on his legs. Anyway, that's gotta make the Calendar! And it's FREE.
----------
Also next Sunday from 2-5pm each of our Fall Ball Teams have to "give up a team member stripper" to dance on the bar at BJ Roosters (LaVista/Cheshire Bridge) against the other teams. This should be a blast! Each of the 9 teams have to have speedos which match a "best costume" is being given. The Red team has already threatened their hunk would be wearing red sequins on his trunks!
From Dark Green----We volunteered TippyToed because he can fit into an earring sleeve and look like it's too big for him! Anyway, he's acting like he doesn't want to do it, but what a HAM! Hope you guys can make it!
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