Memories

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Memories

Soap Opera Digest

I have a smile that will not leave my face for a few weeks. I've just come back from Los Angeles (LA) and I have lots to say.

There was so much confusion this year about where the awards were going to be held. First they were going to be held here, in Las Vegas which would have been a skip and a possible leap and a small jump for me to attend the ceremony. I was so happy about that prospect. We had this tremendous weekend planned with some very close friends from all over the country attending that included a barbecue as well. We had planned and planned until we were told that Soap Opera Digest (SOD) plans had changed and the event was now taking place in LA. With the change of location in place, thinking that was was going to be the only change, I immediately got on the telephone and reserved my ticket on America West airlines to go to Orange County, CA. I thought, I would stay with my friend Leslye for one night at her home and then for the second night, the night of the awards, we would room at a hotel not too far from the awards.
Not to get too involved here and lose your interest totally, there were many obstacles that we had to face to get to the show. One being, because of the theater being so much smaller than previous years, they were not allowing the fans to attend. I was so disappointed and I did try to call various people who I knew and I bothered others hoping I would be given a ticket or maybe even two to attend this event. Out of no where, a friend who I hadn't asked to secure a ticket for me, called and invited me and Leslye to the event. And now....on with the show

We arrived at the HOLLYWOOD PALLADIUM theater with everyone dressed to the nines. I mean everyone looked stunning and luckily for us, we had the right clothing to fit it. It was BLACKTIE BABY!!! The cars were valet and we just got out of our car..(no fuss no looking for a parking spot) and preceded to watch from outside. Some of the younger actors were being interviewed for ET or some other shows, and then one of the guards just asked us if we needed to be interviewed if not we could just enter the theater. We proceeded to the door and went in noticing a bar that provided, champagne or wine. Quite a lovely touch, I might add. Both Leslye and I do not drink so there was no need to hold a glass. We were very comfortable in this environment. There were so many celebrites just waiting inside. They were just regular people talking and schmoozing it was fun just looking around. We saw Debbie Morris, the GH fan club president and we starting to talk to her and have fun watching the crowd as well. We started over to the door and hung out there as well. I am trying very hard to remember all we saw in the foyer but here we go:
Patrika Darbo, Suzanne Rogers, Peggy Mckay all from DAYS. Some of the actors I know their real names and some I just know their characters name so please bare with me..John Callahan, Kelly Ripa and Mark Conselous, the fellow that plays Jake. OLTL, Timothy Stickney, Catherine Hickland and Robert S. Woods,Timmy from Passions, Port Charles was represented by, Carly Schoeder, Kimberlin Brown, Jon Lindstrom, Kin Shriner, Peter Hansen and Susan Brown. From GH...Robyn Richards, John J York,Nancy Lee Grahn,Sarah Brown,the little girl who plays Georgie and the little boy who plays Lucas, Jackie Zeman, who is so stunning, Kimberly McCullough (ex Robin), who looks so gorgeous and so grown up and I was so excited to see her there.--We were then all told we needed to find out seats in the ballroom and sit down. As we entered the ballroom, we were told to go a different way to locate our seats, so we went through the ballroom twice. Both Leslye and I admired Patrika Darbo for her work in the past and we were passing her table. I just went over to her and told her how wonderful I think she is and that when she was done with her dress, I wanted it!!! Her dress was magnificent. Leslye also told her that one of her daughters in particular is a fan of DAYS and of hers. Patrika was so delightful that she didnt want us to leave her. You know like every day folk. However, we thought we took enough of her time so we decided, to end the conversation and thank her for her time. We found our seats, We were at table 108 and even though we were not in the center of the room we had marvelous seats and again extremely grateful to be there. Each person at the table received a bag that had the SOD program, the current Soap Opera Digest, a shirt with the logo SOD, SlimFast candy bars and this lovely NBC BAG to hold all the goodies in it. The tables were decorated simply elegant and there was water and wine on the table as well. At each place setting, a Caesars salad, with tiny sandwiches made of ham, cheese and turkey. Just enough to keep one going and enough to coat a stomach not to get too light headed.
Jess Walton of Y& R, started over to our table with her husband and two other people. I looked at Jess and said, " I dont think this is where you are sitting", she said, "No I dont think so either. But I just wanted to make sure my nephew and niece are here." Her nephew and niece both sat with us and during the course of introductions,we found out that he is on the show WEST WING. We talked to them until the show began and during the commericals. It was lots of fun. The show began and it was an ABC sweep. There were a few surprises but I would say Leslye and I guessed 90% of the winners. We were sad that Amber Tambyn didnt win from GH. Her competition Erin Torpey did.Erin had a incrediable year and watching her grow up and becoming an even better actress year after year, it felt "really good" to see her take home this award. I had hoped for two ties, the previously mentioned Amber and Erin and hoped beyond hope as well to have a tie for Maurice and Kin Shriner. However, this was Maurice's turn and what a year for him it has been. Maurice is so natural that most of the time, people don't realize he actually acting. All I can say is that I sat there with so much pride and joy knowing that Maurice was recognized by the fans to be the consummate actor.
We had been to the GH set earlier in the day and saw Maurice, Nancy, Sarah, touched Tony's dressing room door, so we knew they were all going to win. Do I sound like the Monday Morning quarterback here??? After last year when all our actors won, we thought we had this power. <G>
Then Tony Geary's name was announced and Leslye and I were so happy too. Then GH won. As you know the entire cast went up and it was so grand to see them there accepting their prize. The actors worked hard and it was great to see that the fans, including myself appreciated their actors efforts.The show ended and I looked at Leslye and said, "You could go down there and try and say hi to Tony". It was impossible for me to join her where Tony was seated. This was her moment and I have to say that I am glad I wasn't there with her. I wanted her to have this for herself. Let's just say I didn't have to push her to go down the isle and catch him. I waited by our table while she went down got an autograph on a program and she got some pictures with him and him alone. She was thrilled beyond thrilled and I couldn't have been happier. She has met him several times before and he was so ecstatic to see her there. He told her she looked beautiful and she did. While down near Tony's table, as people were leaving, she also met, Dick Clark. Leslye was totally glowing and I am glowing for her. We had a wonderful time and then we started out in the parking lot to try and get our car. That was fun!! We met several stars who signed this program that will be put up on EBAY for charity. We waited easily 1 hour if not more for the car but it was fun. Finally, after 45 minutes of waiting as the crowd was thinning, I went up to one of the supervisors of the valet and explained that my feet were going to give out any second. And if they did, and I am on the floor, they will need a crane to get me up. We chuckled but even that didn't get us the car for another 15 minutes. However, all in all we had a marvelous time. Without getting any rocks thrown at me, I truly enjoyed the manners and respect that the audience gave to the actors up on the stage. I enjoyed not having people scream in my ear or boo if the "wrong" show or actor won. In the same vein, the fans had every right to be at this show. After all, it's they who cast the vote and chose the winner of each category. However, some fans do get so excited and do go overboard that it ruins it for the rest of the audience. I was so lucky to go. I was so honored to attend this event, and if next year they chose not to have fans, and I am left out in the cold, I will be disappointed but I will understand. It was a glorious night and one I shall never forget and I got to share it again with Leslye.

On March 10, 2000, once again, I had the great opportunity to visit the General Hospital* set. It was the same day as the Soap Opera Awards in Hollywood, California. Since, I had this same chance last year to visit the set and then attend the awards, I sit here, as I write this, hoping this will become a tradition.

Last year, Jonathan Jackson and his family invited us to the set. Us, being Leslye and myself. This year, Maurice Benard* was our inviter. We were told to arrive at the gate between 11am and 11:30am. I was told it was going to be a short and quick day on the set. Everyone was getting ready to attend the awards ceremony. Never let it be said that we don’t follow orders. We arrived at 11:10am and were allowed through the gate. I have been so lucky to go to the set several times. I am still amazed how excited I get when I am asked my name and led through the gate. The parking lot was quite full and we were told to park wayyyy dooownnn there. Easily 3 blocks from the studio entrance. I explained to the second guard that it was difficult for me to walk and he accommodated. Once we parked, I took out my handicapped sticker and all was well with the world.

Once we entered the building, we were asked by another guard who we were and who we intended on seeing. Once, again after relaying the same information to this guard, we were told we could wait in the GREEN ROOM. Maurice was up on the set working .We understood that if we couldn’t get up to the actual set that we would see Maurice and Company down in the green room. We entered the hallway on the way to the green room. We couldn’t help but notice the wonderful pictures that hang in this hallway. Mary Mae’s photo, Robin as a small child, Luke and Laura, Jason, AJ (Sean Kanan) and Keesha, the Quartermaines, Dr Hardy, Audrey and Jessie, as well as many other photos and memories line those hallways. From a distance, I heard people laughing and speaking. As we approached it was clear; Michael Logan (columnist TVG) and Nancy Lee Grahn* were in the hallway just schmoozing away. I said a quiet hi to Michael and he answered with "Hello doll", I nodded to Nancy .Leslye and I entered the Green Room.

In the Green Room, there were bagels, donuts, coffee, tea, orange juice water and condiments. Next to the "continental breakfast" was a television. This television offered the channel so we could watch the scene that was taping upstairs. In this scene was Maurice, Billy Warlock, Sarah Brown and Real Andrews. It was mostly Billy and Maurice and Sarah when we were there. Since the characters of AJ and Sonny are so at odds, it was nice to see Billy and Maurice laughing during a small break. It was interesting to see how much action and rehearsal goes into a day’s work. I didn’t realize it at the time, but we saw "Carly" come down from the set and when we looked at the screen "Carly" was still there. There was a stunt double and from the back and from her walk I couldn’t tell who was who.

While waiting for Maurice to finish up, we enjoyed hanging out in the green room and then once Michael finished his conversation with Nancy, he came over and to talk with us. We had a lovely conversation about this and that and he did agree to a chat soon. I am hoping either right before or just right after the Emmys.

Linda Dano, (Rae Cummings) who has been making the rounds on all the ABC soaps was there to start her first day taping. She is such a nice lady. I think it should be interesting to see whose lives she affects while on the show.

While Nancy was still in the green room, Leslye went over to her and told her how much she enjoyed her on GH but has been a fan of hers since the Santa Barbara days. I went over to her and told her that I loved her great article she penned in SOAP OPERA DIGEST, called, "On my porch". There will be many articles written by Nancy with the same format of a few soap actors/actress’ giving opinions about various subjects.. The first article’s issue discussed: weight and how young girls can be greatly influenced by watching people on television, movies or in magazines. It dealt with how people are always given kudos for losing weight or being thinner. Being overweight myself. and struggling each day with this matter, I enjoyed the article. She seemed very happy to hear that the article was well received. . Leslye and I wished her good luck with the new articles coming. We also wished her well, winning the SOD award. She was so humble and really didn’t believe she had a shot at winning that award that night. . Leslye and I burst out laughing and Nancy looked at us as if we were weird. We told her of last years visit to the set and every one we touched or spoke to, brought home the award**. She hugged Leslye and me. I did suggest that should she win and while she was up on the stage thanking this one and that one that she must say.... Thank you Maxine. Nancy had the last laugh...She brought home the award. Neither Leslye nor I were offended not hearing a thank you from Nancy (on the Palladium’s stage).. Leslye and I knew we were batting a thousand!

We saw Sarah Brown* for a brief moment. She is a very pretty and a lovely lady. We just said a quick hello. Then lunch was called and Maurice came down from the set and saw us. He invited us to his dressing room. . His dressing room is just filled with family type things. There are so many lovely photos of his girls, wife Paula, Cailey and Cassidy and some very cool gifts, his devoted fans have sent to him. It was fun to talk to him for a few minutes. I didn’t want to take up any of his lunchtime. Billy came in and we all joked here and there. I collected what I needed to collect.. Maurice then signed a few autograph photos for Leslye and myself. Then, realizing it was time to go. After wishing him good luck at SODS, we thanked Maurice for his hospitality, mentioned we would see them both in July during the General Hospital weekend and finally said GOODBYE!!

Before we left the actual building, from a distance, we saw A Martinez, Lisa V and we were able to say hi to Tava Smiley. It was a very sparse cast. We were grateful that we got to go to the set.. We got in our car, went for a quick bite to eat. Then on to our hotel to get ready and try to look beautiful for the awards.

I want to thank Maurice Benard for inviting us to the set. It was so much fun and it’s always a privilege to be able to go and be part of the General Hospital world.

* Nancy Lee Grahn
* Maurice Benard
* Sarah Brown
* General Hospital
* Passed by Tony Geary’s dressing room

Imagine being invited by a friend to see Anthony Geary on the same day prior to the Daytime Emmy Awards. Imagine being one of four people included in this very special get together. So imagine my surprise when I was invited to meet with Tony Geary on May 19th.

I was told under no uncertain terms that I must be on time to this apartment in NYC and I would have about a 15 minute span of time to see him and talk to him. Since some of the press was invited up to this apartment after our meeting, we were told in advance that we would have to cut our visit short so they could interview Tony. Frankly, I would have showned up for a minute to see Tony, I was happy to be there for as long or as little time allotted. Debbie H and I met Carol Dickson (OLTL/AMC FanClub Pres) and Debbie Morris (GHandPC Fan Club Pres) in the lobby of this exclusive apartment building and once we were announced we were allowed to enter the elevator up to the assigned floor. We got there to find out that Tony was running just a tad late and before we were organized he entered the apartment. He had met all of us previously. However we were introduced to him again. He was so gracious as he kissed each of us hello on the cheek. He smelled so delicious. We all spoke about the weather and how dreadful it was and how each of us had a story about how drenched we got the night before. We all shared the Broadway plays or shows we had seen so far during this trip. I had mentioned that we had seen THE LION KING. Tony said he had seen it before and since the show is coming to LA he would be inviting his nephew from Utah to join him and see it with him. I asked curiously if this was the younger nephew or the older one. He told me he was his 16 year old nephew. I looked at him and said, "He is 16 already?" I can remember when he was born. I then bursted out, "Tony, I guess we are getting old." He replied, "I am old." Somehow, I got a kick out of that statement. As the time drew closer to the end, knowing that each moment counted and we would have to leave any second, Tony was given pen in hand to sign autograph photos for each of us. I was last and it shocked me that he remembered my name. I know that sounds awkward but with all the people he has met, HE KNOWS ME!!! How cool is that??? He started writing on the photo TO MAXINE......I looked at him and told him how thrilled I was that he remembered my name. He laughed. My friend said, "You know I was just telling Tony this morning how MARGARET FROM LAS VEGAS was going to visit us this afternoon." We all laughed. Earlier, I had mentioned that I had never been in an NY apartment before. Born in the Bronx, I didn't have any friends who lived in an apartment in NYC. Then he looked at me and said something like. a Bronx gal who lives in Las Vegas. I am not sure if he meant how far you have moved or he was curious why anyone would move to Las Vegas. There was no time to deeply discuss that issue.<G>

It was now time to take photos and we went up to the terrace that was attached to the apartment. It was a total photo shoot with all four of our cameras in gear. Our friend took many shots of all of us with his five cameras. Who knows maybe we will make a magazine or two.

While we were taking our photos with Tony, a surprise guest appeared. Jonathan Jackson showed up and I was totally thrilled. He gave me the nicest hello and we took photos with him as well. I told him that I looked forward to seeing him in July at the GH fan club weekend.
Before we were scooted out, we all left on our own and thanked everyone. It was a truly lovely moment in time.

As we all know now, Tony won his Emmy. Unfortunately, Jonathan didn't. The Emmy evening was great but it couldn't compare to my afternoon in this New York Apartment.

The weather in New York City was extremely damp but it didn't take away a moment of excitement and fun from the week I had meeting and greeting and doing it all in NY. I am happy to be back from the Daytime Emmy Awards. It was with great joy I attended. Debbie H. and I were dressed up and looked gorgeous, even if I am the one stating this fact!!! Actually there weren't too many people who looked odd or out of place. However. many people marched to their own beat and that made for a great show of people watching. We had seen them just hours ago and to our suprise we saw Carol Dickson (OLTL/AMC fan club president) and Debbie Morris (GH/PC fan club president). Afterall, with 5000 people in attendance it was more like looking for a needle in a haystack. Once we entered the theater, the four of us spoke for a while and checked out the crowd. As we headed for our seats we said good-bye to Debbie M and Carol.

We had incredible seats and I want to thank Lisa and Denise for setting me on the right path in getting a super duper seat for these awards. Lots of stars walked down our aisle to get to their seat. Lots of people congregated at this event. I met Karen who I have corresponded with online. That was fun putting a face to her name. The best part was the crowd was so exuberant, but not loud or obnoxious. Or was it that "my group" was so loud and obnoxious that I really didn't hear anyone else? Needless to say it was a very neat experience that I hope one day to experience again.

Before the event began, I was supposed to meet Anne Marie Alloca (Daytime Magazine) near the press room entrance that was located outside the building. Unfortunately I didn't get to see her but right in front of this entrance of the Music Hall, I saw ABC-Tim..It was funny because we both didn't recognize each other. Once I recognized his voice as familiar, I asked him if he was Tim. After it was noted that I was right, he looked at me and as if to say, "Who are you?" I reintroduced myself and said ... I'm Maxine from Las Vegas. Another quick hello and hug as we both were embarrassed that neither one of us realized who the other was. I justified it (in my head of course) as saying that it's been three years since we've seen each other. I was very happy to get to say that quick hello to him. He is a very nice person who has been extremely helpful whenever I have approached him. Inside Radio City Musical Hall, Michael Logan (TVG) passed by my seat. Lisa knew I was looking for him and with her helpful "antenna", I ran after him yelling MICHAEL, OH MICHAEL (real class right)? He stopped and luckily for me, he looked happy to see me. We hugged and I asked him to come back to my seat so he could say hi to Debbie H and then I requested our annual photo be taken. As always he accommodated. He had walked down the aisle with Kristen Powers (Yahoo) who up until very recently was the very mysterious SODGH. I have spoken to her via SOD chats and it was a true joy to put her face to her name. I wish her the best of good luck with her new job over at Yahoo. I was holding Michael's hand and asked him why he was so cold? The long walk from the Sheraton Hotel (where the dinner took place) to Radio City was the reason. I guess they don't believe in paving that street in gold let alone with a radiator for heat. Lovely Juliet Mills, from Passions slid by my seat as I smiled and told her I enjoyed her show. Sarah Brown (Carly of GH) passed by as well and she looked stunning. Of course I wished her well and hoped she'd win. Patricia Elliot (Renee Buchanan of OLTL) went down my aisle so quickly I didn't have a chance to say much, but notice her. There were other OLTL actors and actress' who passed by as well but I wasn't quick enough to "grab" them. I think they took a course in how to get in and out of the crowd quickly. From a short distance, I saw Don Jeffcoat, Erin Torpey, David Fumero, Kassie and Jim Depavia, Kale Brown and Phil Carey all of OLTL. All were given a rousing welcome as they moved down the aisle towards their seat. From General Hospital, Ingo Rademacher, Becky Herbst, Jacob Young, Coltin Scott were also seen and given a grand ovation. I saw from a distance Anthony Geary,Jonathan Jackson and Nancy Lee Grahn who always looks so elegant. The Port Charles contingency was held up by Julie Pinson, Jon Lindstrom, Kimberlin Brown, Lynn Herring and Kin Shriner. I was able to see them all once they came off the stage and through a door not too far from my seat. Security was understandably tight, so we couldn't overwhelm the actor.
I was surprised by some of the wins. Disappointed in others and totally screaming with joy for the rest. Unfortunately, Wendy Riche could not recite her acceptance speech. However, Dick Clark, the executive producer of this show, told all the nominees that they had to be up on that stage and finished with their speeches in 1 minute and 5 seconds. It was an impossible task but...All the executive producers of the nominated shows were "warned" in advanced. They being in the same business should understand that money is an issue and the show couldn't go over the time allotted. However, even with the cold and yuckky weather, it was a glorious evening had a wonderful time. I would love to make this one of my annual events. It was great to experience this with so many people who I had wanted to meet and/or have known for a few years now. However, what made it truly special was sharing it with Debbie H. This was our last hurrah -- she will begin her new life soon. A nice ending and a great beginning. How do I thank my best friend and husband for this incredible birthday gift? I really don't know. But for those who know me, know I am always thinking so, don't fret, I will figure out a way.
<WINK>

I had the privilege of attending the Hope for the Hopeless concert in Portland Ore this past weekend. I have heard the Jackson's sing via their two CDs. Scarlet Road's Clash and God Candy. However, I was absolutely amazed at what I witnessed at the Benson High School auditorium on October 28.
The event started off with a video that included Richard Jackson, Tyler Christopher (ex Nicholas Cassidine) and Lisa Vultaggio (Hannah GH) all talking about their commitment to the Lord and Jesus Christ. There were other people in this video attesting to their own commitment as well. After the video Jonathan, Richard and Rick Jackson and their cousin on guitar, opened the show. All the music was related to God and to Jesus Christ. How moving the songs were. Rick Jackson did two solos and was terrific. There was a video of the Jackson children. It was great to see them grow right before our eyes. Candice Jackson was magnificent. I knew she was a talented young lady but had no idea she sang. She sang with Jonathan as Richard played the drums and Rick played his guitar. Jeanine was on keyboard. All in all ... what an evening. So inspirational. The evening was billed as a concert to benefit the homeless of the greater Portland area. However I would say it likened to a revival church session. There was a silent auction that housed many GH memorabilia and many Jackson memorabilia as well. Such as drum sticks from Richard and autographed photos of Jonathan. It was a joyful renewal of life concert where there was dancing in the aisles and singing with the Jackson's.
The concert lasted over three hours and all adored the event. William Rotunno, of Crystal Clear, the short that Jonathan and Richard directed and produced, that won William, best actor and won Jonathan and Richard, Best Dramatic Short and Lisa Vultaggio were there to show their support. Many friends from both the communities the Jackson's reside were there to show their support and praise the lord. What better way to give hope to the hopeless than to experience watching the Jackson Family work. It gave me great joy to watch Rick and Jeanine as they looked and watched lovingly over at their children perform.
The one thing I have always noticed about the fans of Jonathan and his family is that they are so respectful.
After the show, I was able to go up on the stage ..hug Candice, Rick, Jeanine, Richard and Jonathan. As always the gracious family, they thanked ME for coming to the event. Little did they know it was MY pleasure to attend. I look forward to another such event to attend.

If you would like to make a donation to this cause
please send your checks to:

Hope for the Hopeless Streets
c/o Ashbrook Medical 5512 NE 107th Ave
Vancouver, WA 98662

This past weekend was a special treat for me as those here in Las Vegas. Billy Warlock, AJ Quartermaine of General Hospital, made a personal appearance at the Forum Shopping center. Mark Consuelos, Matteo Santos of All My Children was scheduled to appear as well. However, he either arrived very late (after I left) or wasn't able to attend.

To insure my place in the line, I arrived at the mall over an hour earlier than the appearance was scheduled. I wanted to make sure I got to say "hello" to MY BILLY. I had to get in and out of the mall quickly due to my other committment of helping the homeless this week. Luckily, I was able to leave my husband in charge of the homeless project for a few hours. Just this once and with confidence, I successfully pursued my double life.

I was #1 on the line for autographs. Let me take this opportunity to say that the promoters and workers of the Planet Hollywood restaurant were terrific. They were extremely patient with all my questions and they set the line up so I could be #1. However, our local ABC affiliate, Channel 13, ran a contest during the week. So, even though I started out on the line as #1, I was down to #5 when the contest winners got there. As a contest winner,they got to enter the line and be #1. I guess I will have to try and win the contest next time.

I had called my friend Sherry the night before and told her about Billy coming to Las Vegas. She told me she would meet me at the mall. When Sherry arrived, much later than I did, the people on line behind me, allowed Sherry to cut the line and stand with me. I thought that was extremely generous of them. The crowd in general were very enthusiastic. I pretty much got to meet all the people around me and we had a great conversation.

Billy was introduced 45 minutes later than planned. However, it was well worth the wait. He received a wonderful reception. He made the crowd smile, as he approached the stage and said, "I'm nothing like AJ." He was asked to place his hands in cement for his hand-prints to be molded.These will be displayed at this Planet Hollywood. He was funny when he mentioned the cement felt hot. He took some questions from the audience. However, most of us just wanted to meet him, get an autograph and have our photos taken with him. I think thats what we hope for. That "special private moment" when we meet a celebrity.
Sherry had never met a soap opera star before. Needless to say she was very excited. I was so happy for her. Many photos were taken. Frankly, I am not pleased with the one that was taken of me. However, I will share our individual photos with you.
Billy was ever so gracious with all of us. It was finally Sherry's turn and she asked if AJ was ever going to get "well" He said, he didn't know but it can get a little tiresome and depressing playing a drunk day after day( I am paraphrasing). He also said that's why he adds humor to the role. Personally, I've enjoyed him playing as AJ with an alcoholic problem, for now. I think Billy is finally AJ. I had accepted him in this role from day one in 1997. However, I know it's been a long struggle for other fans of General Hospital and of Sean Kanan's (previous actor who played the role) to make that transition.
I told Sherry she could go in front of me in this autograph line, because we promised others that she would take their photo with Billy. Believe it or not, these two very nice ladies forgot a camera. Rule one: When attending a personal appearance of a soap star, always bring a camera !!!
I waited patiently as it became my turn. He kissed me HI. We spoke for a while and then he told me he will be back in Las Vegas at another event at the end of the month. I will make it my business to be there as well. Sherry might even join me as I think I may have gotten her started in chasing soap stars.
I have worked for Billy since 1988. He hasn't changed. He has always been a very nice man, who appreciates people. Years ago when he was on the soap opera, Days of our Lives. During his stint there, he was kind enough to send me a script and the autograph read, To My Maxine....
Yesterday, I asked him for an autographed photo, just like the ones he gave to the people before me. He was surprised that I wanted one. I explained that we are always photographed together but I have very few items with his autograph on it. He smiled and accommodated as he wrote....
To My Maxine...
You're the Best
Love, Billy
As you can see, nothing has changed.

To My Billy, the feeling is mutual.
You too, are simply the BEST.
Love, Maxine