News Brief

TOM CASIELLO: When did say we weren’t interested in a long-term relationship?
A must read blog entry from Casiello: "I know of a few head writers who are thinking six/eight/sometimes twelve months in advance with some of their storylines. But I've also heard of head writers who are given the order that they are to write quick, neat, three months stories from above because 'that's all the audience has the patience for'. And that's when my blood starts to boil."

LYNN LICCARDO: Election 2008 and the Soap Opera Fan
"...while at first glance it may seem trivial in the overall scheme of things that fans of soaps and Star Trek and the WWE may be marginalized by virtue of simply being fans, there's nothing trivial about being marginalized as a citizen."

Also, check out Liccardo's follow up blog on the drama surrounding the Sarah Palin VP nomination.

Deep Soap: Let’s Get Serious
Sara A. Bibel blogs: "Sometimes soap operas really get it right. On tomorrow’s episode of NIGHT SHIFT, written by longtime General Hospital writer Karen Harris, Jagger (Antonio Sabato Jr.) attends a support group for parents of children with autism. Casting director Mark Teschner chose to cast actors who are raising special needs children in real life as other members of the group, adding verisimilitude to the scene."

Performers Neill Barry, Ellen Bry and Christine Romeo spoke with Bibel about why this is such an important storyline and the challenges of raising a child with autism.

EVENT: Weight-Loss Surgery Seminar with GL's Van Zandt
6:30-8:30 p.m. Sept. 24 at The Peabody Hotel. Learn the science behind why diet/exercise alone may not work for people who are more than 100 pounds overweight. Free event features GUIDING LIGHT actress Caitlin Van Zandt, and Khaliah Ali, daughter of former heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali, who share their weight-loss journeys. Dr. Michael Roizen, co-author of "YOU: On a Diet," will address the importance of weight loss for better health and tools for successful long-term weight loss. They will also be joined by a bariatric surgeon. Seating is limited. RSVP early by contacting [email protected] or call (310) 309-1016.

MDA Telethon raises record $65 million
The telethon was co-hosted by DAYS actress Alison Sweeney.