Hi All,

This idea is based on something I read on one post to the effect, "what would happen if the only thing you could do on the discussion board is review scripts?"  

I'd like to try a five day experiment.  Starting Monday, March 6th, I'd like to hide all the discussion threads except the "Unproduced Screenplay Discussion" section.  This will only be an experiment to see if the discussion board can survive with a much, much more narrow focus.  

Please vote and let me know what you think.

Thanks,

Don

I think some of the development boards would be worth keeping as well such as Screenwriting Class and WIP (on occasion), but for the experiment, it would be interesting.

Could this possibly turn into a permanent thing or something that would happen, like once a month?  

-Zavier

I'd probably get a lot more done -- with scriptwriting and the stuff I am actually supposed to be doing -- if some of the chat were streamlined.

Would I miss it?

I dunno.  But sure.  Let's find out.

Wesley can have a happy week at the very least.

1. General Chat (10140 messages)
2. My Work In Progress (4929 messages)
3. Short (3067 messages)
4. Getting to know you, getting to know all about you... (2656 messages)
5. Movie, Television and DVD Reviews (2597 messages)
6. Horror (2534 messages)
7. Questions or Comments (2184 messages)
8. Screenwriting Class (1902 messages)
9. Movie/Television Rumor (1850 messages)
10. Film Contests and Call for Scripts (1328 messages)

In my opinion, if everything but the "Unproduced Screenplay Discussion" section were  cut, this board would die.

-Zavier

This is a fantastic idea. Both as an experiment and as a reminder of what the boards are really about. Let's give it a go!

I like the idea of all the extra threads, but I guess it could be interesting to see what happens.

Quoted from Nixon Could this possibly turn into a permanent thing or something that would happen, like once a month?   -Zavier

Zavier,

I haven't thought this all the way through.  I just want to see what happens.  I know that during that week you (Zavier) wouldn't have much to do (you do an excellent job on the Movie Rumor page, btw).  I can pretty much guarantee you that your section is safe from any changes.  Quite honestly, based upon the 'rapid' rate of changes I make to the site, nothing much will come of this.  On the other hand, (just musing here) what would happen if I split the discussion board into two sections - pure screenwriting and everything else.  Not saying it is going to happen.  

Don

Actually, General chat is the big culprit, and the board that Wesley harps on the most. Most everything else is actually related to the craft in some way.

If you split it into two sections, how would the actual function differ from what it is now?

Quoted from Don I know that during that week you (Zavier) wouldn't have much to do (you do an excellent job on the Movie Rumor page, btw).

  :) The price I pay for having three online classes.

But seriously thanks for the kind words Don. Maybe Im being over protective or it's the fact that I hate change, but I really like were the board is right now and would hate to see it change.

-Zavier

I've thought about this a little more and foresee a problem.

I am 100% sure this will happen, too.

There are too many chatterboxes around here (sure, I'm one), and all this "chatter" would simply move to the Script threads.

And suddenly you would have tons of scripts with "hot" or "superhot" threads -- but the posts would have nothing to do with the script -- it would be musing on upcoming films or "things I hate" or "I can't believe that f'ing Tanuki is still around" and stuff like that.

Those "hot" files on a script should be earned fair and square -- but if there was no outlet to house idle chatter, they would be a dime a dozen.

I like looking at the "General Chat" and "Let's get to know more about you" topics because I probably chat more than review scripts most of the time. But if you want to do it, do it.

Like Starsky says in Starsky and Hutch: Do it.

Sean

let's try it!


Phil

1 week every few months wouldn't kill the board, I think for those who care about screenwriting it will give them even more of a push to read things and build up their ideas.

Sure a few people may disappear for that week and we'll all see this as them not caring which will hurt them in the long run.

At the end of the day I think people chat it up in those script threads as well so the boards won't change all that much.

I'll probably read like 5 more things this weekend anyways but a week without "fun" threads forces you to actually look and read things you might not read otherwise and reviews help especially if you do it like George.

Yeah, come to think of it I'll probably get to everything on my to-do list without all the distractions haha.

The only thing I'm worried about is that as a result of this experiment, certain scripts will become hot threads and others will be buried. Then when things go back to "normal", those scripts will never get read.

But that may not even happen. I'm actually really looking forward to see what happens with this experiment.

^^^what the heck?

Quoted from James McClung The only thing I'm worried about is that as a result of this experiment, certain scripts will become hot threads and others will be buried. Then when things go back to "normal", those scripts will never get read. But that may not even happen. I'm actually really looking forward to see what happens with this experiment.

Bert mentioned something like this, but I don't see it happening.  Without the off topic boards then reviews should come rolling in.  Just reviews, nothing more. And unless somebody gets horribly offended by one of those reviews, I don't think there will be an inflation in certain script responses.  Now, maybe there will be more discussion of scripts which could possibly boost responses, but we won't know until we find out.  But that's just me.

Quoted from bert I'd probably get a lot more done -- with scriptwriting and the stuff I am actually supposed to be doing -- if some of the chat were streamlined.

Same here. I usually start getting motivated to start writing, but then for some reason, I start to go to the other boards first.

I don't know if I would miss the boards...but I'd like to see what will happen.

I would want it to be 1 week a month for reviews. Without general discussion and things like that. It would probably damage the site quite a bit. Let's give it a go, but I don't think it should be like that permanately.

It's a good idea. I think doing it once every 4-6 weeks would be good. It would get us a bit more focused and more scripts would be reviewed.

MAybe Just Make the the script forums (Genres Forums) be able to have writers postthier own thread. ofcourse, the only thing it would be able to do is start a thread foryour script (one of the features is being able to attach  your won scripts) and have a logline added in. Any discussions about anyhthing ther that thread is deleted. and the threads can be delted if they are inappropiate (liek any thread). Taht would save alot of time instead of submitting, but it would probably mean alot of innapropriate (or unfinsihed) script will be submitted. Maybe only full users would post.

Sounds good!

Quoted from -Ben- MAybe Just Make the the script forums (Genres Forums) be able to have writers postthier own thread. ofcourse, the only thing it would be able to do is start a thread foryour script (one of the features is being able to attach  your won scripts) and have a logline added in. Any discussions about anyhthing ther that thread is deleted. and the threads can be delted if they are inappropiate (liek any thread). Taht would save alot of time instead of submitting, but it would probably mean alot of innapropriate (or unfinsihed) script will be submitted. Maybe only full users would post.

I'd say thats like putting gas on a fire...its just going to make it bigger. It would be just as easy for Don to post them up there, that way he can review the scripts before they ever go up there.

I'm not sure what is discussing here, but I think this site is one of more complete site in the net; lot of different forums of discussion and also there are lots of different people with different opinions. The major problem is: Bad attitudes and manners that have been judged by the webmaster and its staff.

I have more ideas for you Don, some are borderline stupid which is why I'll keep them to myself and others would boost the script threads above the general chat ones without taking away the fun boards.

We need to figure out who on this board is trailer Runs because nobody is that bad with English.

Could you be more clear Wes, please, with this: "We need to figure out who on this board is trailer Runs because nobody is that bad with English."

Quoted from Helio Could you be more clear Wes, please, with this: "We need to figure out who on this board is trailer Runs because nobody is that bad with English."

Helio, if you are worried that Wesley is talking about you, don't be.  He isn't.  You make more sense than Trailer Runs on your worst day.

But wouldn't it be cool if Don would make it like "Survivor" and we could all vote people "off the island"?

He's too nice to do it himself, but this way he could be, like, "Well, sorry but my hands are tied..."

Now there's a dangerous idea... I can see some merit in it as this is a community, though, and if the community wants you out, then there is little point in staying. Most people who are that bad though wouldn't take the hint and end up banned per the rules anyway. It actually seems like the system is in place without all the pesky voting.

To me, I don't think something like "Survivor" would be good. How would we do voting if there was actually going to be something like that?

I'm kidding.

I was too...

Okay, maybe not...

I find myself getting caught up in the discussion boards way too much. I even have a few scripts I've read recently but haven't gotten around to reviewing (i'll be on that soon), that's also b/c of school work and a social life.

Discussion boards being locked would help. I really think people's true colors would show. We'd see if gossip or screenwriting is their priority on this site.

Writer's who recently have posted scripts will really benefit from this. It will only help them by having more feedback than the usual script gets.

I say go for it. If people don't like it, DEAL. It'll be back in a week. Until then write or take up a hobby like model train building.

Quoted from thegardenstate89 . Until then write or take up a hobby like model train building.

When I was young, my only goal in life was to build a gigantic room filled with the biggest railway set ever constructed.

Sheesh, where did I go wrong...

Back to the topic - It would be interesting to see what would happen. I read a lot of stuff, so I'd probably survive.

I have abosolutely no chance....:)

I changed my mind.  As I look at the script threads I'm notcing that there hasn't been a big volume of reviews recently.  A few people have mentioned this, often I'm looking at what's going on in the non-script related pages and then get distracted from doing what I was intending to do.

So call me John Kerry cause I'm flip flopping.

Go the lockdown. Ideally all I'd like to do on this site is post scripts and review them, but talking about movies and ourselves is an easy out. Save us from ourselves Don.

It would be like a kick in the pants to remind us of what's really important...kind of like being fired...no, I wasn't fired...

I've known this for a year and nobody listens to crazy old Wesley... If I'm so crazy why do 23 people to 7 agree with me? Plus Don. George - you, Bert and Higgonaitor have a scene in your scripts that says this fact and yet you didn't believe it at the time it was written by you?

The other boards are important as you connect with other people, down the line possibly meet them with what Andy does in her spare time. Maybe even form a partnership with them that makes you both Rich and Famous.

I'd say a lot of people are here because THEY want people to read their scripts and love them, they don't care to read things in return which is why they'd vote no.

Quoted from Old Time Wesley ...nobody listens to crazy old Wesley... George - you, Bert and Higgonaitor have a scene in your scripts that says this fact and yet you didn't believe it at the time it was written by you?

You think this is why we think you're crazy?  Oh man, it goes waaaay deeper than that.

And if you don't lock that stupid Tanuki thread soon I am going to start talkin' smack on your mamma, too.

You should read "Hero of her Heart" afterward.  That was hilarious!

Are you speaking of the one they wanted me to close or the one in Getting to know you? I closed it because everybody kept saying lock this thread.

Quoted from tomson Wesley took away the Tanuki thread and everyone left. It's now very quiet here and I was just getting in the mood.

Actually, I took away the Tanuki thread.  It started to take a bad turn.  

Don

I don't mind the experiment but i DO NOT want to see this permenently happen. I just couldn't survive. haha

Dear Don, you did well, because all on here in this site became crazy and insane with that litle Asian god.

You know what's going to be funny (or ironic, take your pick) --

The sixteen gazillion posts that accumulate within hours after some silly soul begins the "So, What Did You Think of the Lockdown?" thread.

Think about it....

You know it's going to start. I predict that if Don doesn't do it, it will be Andrew Romance. He's rather notorious for that. If not him, it will likely be someone relatively new.

Okay, so, I've been coming here for well over a year but only posting sporadically since last May or so (VERY sporadically, actually)...but I think closing all threads except for script discussion is a good idea.  

For one, and this is just my personal opinion, but there are plenty of websites out there to idly chit-chat on.  This being a screenplay/screenwriting site aimed at aspiring writers, the fact that most discussions DON'T focus on posted scripts seems pointless.  I've posted a few replies in non-script discussion threads here, but I aim at mostly coming here just to read the work of others and maybe have my work read.  And this isn't at all coming from the fact that I had a new one posted a couple weeks ago and no one's read it yet. :P

I just don't see anyone being able to learn the craft and better themselves as writers when what should be the main focus isn't followed as much as it should be.  That's the opinion of this relative newbie, anyway.

Well that's your own fault Lon, you'd still have to read something to get something read... That's not going to change.

Don't think that just because the other boards are going down you're going to get free reads.

It's sad that the last 3 reviews you left were on threads by writers who don't post here on a regular basis, read ones with a lot of activity or ones where the writer has at least 50 posts because anything under that is probably a bad sign.

He's read several scripts, Wes.  It's not his fault that the favor's being returned.


Phil

Several by people who aren't here, I looked through his/her post history and the last 3 reviews are in threads by people who don't post on a regular basis. (I wasn't saying the guy wasn't reading stuff, just not by people who can or will return the favor)

I'm not pulling things out of my ass, I'm just stating hard facts.

Plus the Review Exchange, that's another way to get reads.

I understand that, Wes.  But Lon isn't as savvy about the boards and who to look out for like some of us.


Phil

Lon, you should maybe search the script exchange board. Anyways, about your opinion, I think you are wrong. People don't join this site to have idle chit chat. People join because they want to read other writer's work and get their work read.

Some threads on this site are pointless, but give someone the opportunity to get to know other people here. This site does focus on scripts, do you ever review anyone else's work? Review someone else's and then they will most likely return the favor.

Some people post in those no-good threads because they bring more enjoyment to SS. What do you mean that no one betters themselves on this site? I know from just a day here I became better at screenwriting.

Every day I improve, and I bet you other people improve day by day as well.

Jimbo

Re-read my post, Jimbo - I'm actually in agreement with you. :)  

As for commenting in old script discussion threads, I don't pay attention to the date a thread was started or who the writer is.  If the concept sounds interesting to me, I'll check out the script, and that's my only criteria for discussion threads I do or don't take part in aside from whether or not it's in a genre I have interest in.  Whether the thread hasn't been replied to in a year or a day doesn't matter to me.

I also don't care if the writer was someone who proved him/herself to be an asshole and disappeared before I came to the boards, and I don't care if the person has five thousand posts and twenty posted scripts.  I read what I read (and yes, I do read a LOT of scripts here, full-time job and three kids permitting), and comment when I have a comment to give.  To deprive someone of valuable feedback based on how long their script has been here or if he/she is just a straight up asshole has very little bearing on my selection process.

So I don't see anything sad at all about the scripts I've replied on.  And incidentally, I have less than fifty posts yet my first script was a finalist in a script contest, so I don't think the "less than fifty posts is a bad sign" argument holds much water.  No offense, but there are exceptions to every rule.

Dogglebe, thanks for trying to clarify for me.  It's much appreciated.:)

Sure you can say "I read things" but that's not making somebody a better writer if they're not here and that's the point of this whole "you post it, we read it"

I think the screenplays on the message boards should be exclusive to "members" we have over 500 and yet the screenplays being posted in which the writer never comes around is almost as pointless as watching dry paint.

For the first, say, six months of my membership on this board I replied only to the discussion thread on one of my own scripts.  And in all honesty, I was so busy trying to get that script ready for the competition I was submitting it to that reading anyone else's script didn't even cross my mind.  I wasn't being selfish -- I just simply didn't have the where-with-all to read someone else's work and offer a fully lucid opinion.  

Equally honestly, if no one had replied to my script's thread, I likely wouldn't have eventually replied to anyone else's, myself.   Now, ponder this; who's to say these members who never post aren't just waiting for someone to comment on their stuff?  Who's to say they don't reply to anyone else's scripts because they don't feel they have the know-how to, or that they'd be showing their lack of screenwriting knowledge?  And how are they ever going to get the knowledge to intelligently comment on another's script, if no one's taken the time to point out the mistakes in theirs?  

I don't know, maybe it's just me -- I don't see the sense in completely ignoring someone who doesn't post, because, again, maybe they don't post because they don't think they have anything useful to contribute in terms of comments.  But maybe by sharing our thoughts on their work, they'll learn and then be able to offer their opinions to others.

Or, maybe all the non-posters are just selfish assholes who only care about what's to be said for their own stuff and aren't interested in helping out anyone else by reading others' works.  Sure, maybe...but I'm not pessimistic or cynical enough to totally buy that.

I agree with you Tomson.

Quoted from Lon I also don't care if the writer was someone who proved him/herself to be an asshole and disappeared before I came to the boards, and I don't care if the person has five thousand posts and twenty posted scripts.  I read what I read (and yes, I do read a LOT of scripts here, full-time job and three kids permitting), and comment when I have a comment to give.  To deprive someone of valuable feedback based on how long their script has been here or if he/she is just a straight up asshole has very little bearing on my selection process.

Interesting thread. I totally relate to the constraints of family and work life Lon, my wife is always kicking me off the computer and rightfully so. LOL.
However, like you I read whatever script I feel like reading. In fact I once read and posted a comment about the very last script on the short script thread, simply because it was the last script and had been sitting there without comment for about two years. I enjoyed it and gave it a big rap. Like you, I also think it's a waste of time engaging in idle chatter on this site, when you could be writing your own stuff or reading and reviewing the work of others. However, I waste my time doing a lot of meaningless (but enjoyable) things when I should be doing something more "constructive". Anywho, I welcome Don's proposed lockdown because I do want to get fairdinkum and bloody well write. So here's hoping the lockdown produces the desired result. By the way Lon, what's your script called? I'll review it for you.  

I do understand what you're saying Lon, I've reviewed scripts that nobody to this day has replied to.

In fact I've had a few things up that sat there on the boards without a reply, even after I posted in it.

This time I've planned the release of certain things a little better  ;) ;) ;)

That's cool, Wes -- I just hope I wasn't coming off as an ass, myself.  Totally not my intention. :)

Takeshi, thanks for the offer.  The only scripts I have posted on SimplyScripts are linked to in my signature below - both have gone through numerous rewrites since their respective post dates, but I'd be thrilled to hear any comments you may have on the drafts that are here.

I'd also be happy to return the favor and review a script of yours.:)

Here's an idea for Don....

When you list someone's script on the boards, can you also post the writer's user name?  I'd like to be sure that the script I'm reading is from someone who is active on the board.


Phil

That is already in effect phil.

The writers' real names are listed with the scripts when posted.  We don't know what their user names are.


Phil

That's actually an option Dogglebe (Another of my bright ideas) but Don made it optional which only the bulk of us regulars actually use or know what it is.

It's on the submit a script part.

And Lon I always seem to come off as an ass but I mean everything I say in a sincere honest way, I don't try to cause problems it just happens because the internet is hard to convey emotions.

I've had that problem before myself, Wes -- hard to inflect when you're dealing with text in a box.  

Quoted from Lon Takeshi, thanks for the offer.  The only scripts I have posted on SimplyScripts are linked to in my signature below - both have gone through numerous rewrites since their respective post dates, but I'd be thrilled to hear any comments you may have on the drafts that are here.

No worries Lon, I'll read Wrath of God and get back to you in a week or so.

Quoted from Old Time Wesley That's actually an option Dogglebe (Another of my bright ideas) but Don made it optional which only the bulk of us regulars actually use or know what it is.

Maybe it shouldn't be an option....


Phil

Quoted from Lon Now, ponder this; who's to say these members who never post aren't just waiting for someone to comment on their stuff?  Who's to say they don't reply to anyone else's scripts because they don't feel they have the know-how to, or that they'd be showing their lack of screenwriting knowledge?  And how are they ever going to get the knowledge to intelligently comment on another's script, if no one's taken the time to point out the mistakes in theirs?

Probably everyone feels this way when they join, Lon.  You still have to get over it.  Having scripts by newbies, as well as the experienced people here allows a different perspective on the script.

And a great way to learn how to critique here is to read a script and see if you feel the same way other the others who critiqued it.


Phil

Quoted from Lon Who's to say they don't reply to anyone else's scripts because they don't feel they have the know-how to, or that they'd be showing their lack of screenwriting knowledge?

You don´t need advanced screenwriting knowledge to post a review. Everyone who watches movies can tell you which one he liked or hated and why.

Of course, having screenwriting knowledge would help you to post a "better" review. But if you tell a writer you´re a beginner, and still post an honest review, I think the writer would appreciate it nontheless.

I personally find any review to be worthwhile since everyone has their own perspectives about things, especially movies. Someone who is a beginner might comment on some aspect of your story that doesn't appeal to them personally, and it could be something the old fogies would completely overlook, but be a legitimate point.

So is this happening today?

It looks mighty done to me...

It is indeed.  Let the...uh..."festivities"...begin!

Hehe it feels weird coming here and seeing that every board is been taken off except for this one and the scripts. But now I can read people's scripts! Well, that is if I have the time too...:D

Sean

Quoted from Zombie Sean Hehe it feels weird coming here and seeing that every board is been taken off except for this one and the scripts. But now I can read people's scripts! Well, that is if I have the time too...:D Sean

Just read the short ones if time is an issue, that's my plan. I'll just print up a bunch and read a few each night before I go to sleep.

How long will this be going for?

Quoted from -Ben- How long will this be going for?

It's a mystery.  

Don

I find the screenwriting class to be a very helpful resource...I've been able to get many answers to questions re: how to write my screenplay in it.  

I also see and agree with your goal in streamlining the board.  

Bottom Line: I'm torn...hopefully a happy medium can be reached.

Jaykur this is never going to be permanent because Don is a smart man and knows if he cut out the other boards the message boards will die. This is what happens when you guys ignore the screenplay sections though and I hope this shocks people into realizing that the real reason these boards exist is because of the screenplays.

So, what's the deal with this "DOM" guy who has read about 8 bazillion things in the last day and a half?

Is he for real or what?

This guy even woke up the thread for "The Walters" haha.

Quoted from bert Is he for real or what?

It heard rumours he even read #747  :D

I've noticed this too. He's a major script necromancer pulling things I've haven't seen up in ages. He probably did read 747...oh wait, I haven't written it yet...oh wait, that wasn't mine, was it? Is it? Man, I need to get more sleep.

Of course, we should be careful socializing on the one and only thread still open other than the script threads. We'll get ourselves locked down...

I'm beinning to retract my "no" vote.  I am really enjoying this.  Often times I have found myself coming to these boards to read scripts and end up "Just checking in" on things like general chat when BAM!  I dont't read anything at all.

Now not only have I had more time to read, but I've written alot as well.  I like this, and think we should do it monthly.

I'm enjoying this as well.  It feels more peaceful knowing that the other boards aren't around and there aren't any fights going on.

I was about to ask what happened to the other subforums, then I came to this thread. I miss the general discussion :(

I'm afraid I'd like to retract my yes vote as well. Sure it's peaceful around here now but it's borderline dead. No more scripts are getting reviewed than usual and most of them are scripts that have been heavily reviewed already and unearthed from long ago (I myself have done this but for what I consider to be a good reason). This is actually something I feared would happen. None of the newer scripts seem to be getting any reads.

This isn't to say that this experiment is without its benefits. Hopefully, everyone will learn something from this. But I'd hate to see this become a permenant thing. As some have already said, the boards would most likely die.

Quoted from Higgonaitor Now not only have I had more time to read, but I've written alot as well.  I like this, and think we should do it monthly.

I'm with you Higg. One week a month would be cool. As for the people who say this hasn't increased the amount of scripts being reviewed, I think it's too early to tell, we should review it at the end of the trial. I'm off to a slow start because I was in the middle of reading a feature length script when this started, but once that's out of the way, I'll let fly with a bunch of short script reviews.

It is a bit quiet, isn't it.

I reckon Screenwriting Class should at least be open for business. I have a few good articles I could post in there.

I guess I'll review a few shorts but I'm swamped at the moment. I miss all the regular banter.

It may be mostly dead, but it is interesting to see the board stats in Portal and find out which script boards are visted the most.

Bear in mind that I do not take any umbrage at the dissenters with regard to this little experiment (as long as you can disagree without posting porn to the site).  And, I'm not being defensive, however, take a look at the stats (scroll down a bit and check the day to day stats)  Very interesting.  

http://www.simplyscripts.net/cgi-bin/Blah/Blah.pl?v-stats/

Regardless, I am going to turn up a few of the other boards in the next couple of days.  

And, yes.  I will get all those scripts that have been submitted over the last week up on the site.  

Don

Don, that link only works for administrators, which I am not.

Doesn't work for me either Higg ha-ha

I still think it's going to prove good for those who are getting reads out of it, that guy who is reading everything really isn't leaving helpful comments and seems to read more scripts than is possible but... what can you do.

I'm very curious as to who our new friend is.  There's no thread to introduce himself on so we don't know haha.  Kind of ironic actually.

Please try the link again.  This time, think good thoughts.

http://www.simplyscripts.net/cgi-bin/Blah/Blah.pl?v-stats/

As for DOM, yes, he is quite prolific.  I've cleaned out the off topic posts and the "This is cool" type posts.  Still, very interesting the stats over the last couple of days.  

Don

It actually started yesterday, the sixth,  which has the heighest amount of replies except for the second.. Today is not yet over, which is why the numbers are still low, yet not really that low.  By the end of the day it should be like the heighest in the week.

Never seen that page before. I thought it was interesting overall. then again, maybe I just like statistical stuff. Kind of neat that two of my scripts are in the top ten topics....which they won't be when the other boards are unlocked again. SimplyNoir is number 2 and Fempiror is number 9. Okay, I've tooted my horn.

I think we have another conspiracy, reply wise SimplyNoir is number 2 and none of the other SS scripts are on there. I mean it's almost like people stopped caring after it was released and only a select few read the others.

Mine got lost in adventure, so did another one but I guess the "Short" section is a victim of it's own success in that scripts get lost 3 minutes after they're posted.

I figure shorts are easy enough to write and everyone writes at least one or two so with more submssions there than anywhere else, it's easy for a script to get quickly lost. But on the flip side, it gets looked at a lot too, also because they're quick and easy to read as much as they are to write...it's finding a really good one that's the real trick.

Quoted from Old Time Wesley I think we have another conspiracy, reply wise SimplyNoir is number 2 and none of the other SS scripts are on there. I mean it's almost like people stopped caring after it was released and only a select few read the others.

Yeah, I know what you mean, not even all the people who were in mine read it, which I thought was surprising (with the exception of trailer runs).  

I'd actually have to say that the one in the western contest might hav eto be my favorite of all f these...I feel stupid for not remembering who wrote it, I'll have to go back and check.

Quoted from Higgonaitor I feel stupid for not remembering who wrote it, I'll have to go back and check.

Thanks. That'll be me. Now go reply to the thread 100 times so we can knock that pesky Simply Noir down a peg or two :)

I think I've read all of these SS parodies except 'In Don We Trust' which is on my list right after I finish with George's latest script.

I hope Don brings the WIP and Screenwriting discusion borad back atleast.

I've been really busy for the past for few weeks. I come back and wow. I mean wow. It seems like a lots changed...

I voted no on this and I still feel that this board isn't....alive. It's like its just a directory of screenplays...you can't really get help on screenplay ideas or format issues...you can't talk about movies in general, and you can't get to know anything about one another...I thought/think this will be a bad idea if this is how its going to be from now on...

Rapture you need to read the above posts before you post because it clearly states that it's only for a week and isn't perfect as to how it's set up right now.

All the other boards will be back next week and you can go back to posting pointless stuff and fighting with people... don't worry, don't cry, just read stuff if that's not a lot to ask.

What if Don made it so that you couldn't post or see the other boards until you were at at like 50+ post count or above...? That way you have to have reviewed some before you become a full member. Just an idea.

I've signed up to boards where 'your opinion didn't count' until after so many posts.  I left it for that reason.


Phil

Quoted from FilmMaker06 What if Don made it so that you couldn't post or see the other boards until you were at at like 50+ post count or above...? That way you have to have reviewed some before you become a full member. Just an idea.

Or maybe just 25.  50 posts to see the other boards would mean reading roughly 45-50 scripts.  But that's not a half bad idea.

Tomson,

Don would just delete the one liners.  They bug him, they bug us, so therefore they wouldn't count.

Could Don fix it where a post must be a minimum number of characters?  Say one hundred?  That's not that much for a real critique.  That's probabaly less than what I posted here.


Phil

I actually look up the new people now.  If I can't find them as having posted something, I don't review them.  That guy from last week, 'Film Utopia' is a great reason why I don't post for everyone.  This guy practically refused to read other people's work.  And when he did, he never read past page five.

People!  Read something!


Phil

I think it is a pretty damn good idea.

But I agree with what Bert has said, people will probably just ignore the script they are talking about and end up holding conversations on that particular thread instead.

Still, well worth a try!

The plus side is it has made me get back to writing my own script instead of talking a load of shite. (Not about other peoples work, I meant in general, I talk shite)

That is a great idea, TriggerStreet has something like that. You're required to review at least two screenplays for each screenplay you upload.

-Zavier

I don’t want to spark controversy with this (though I seem to be able to do that whether I’m trying to or not) but it seems to me that all this is unnecessary.

There’s no one on this thread who hasn’t posted in a thread outside of the scripts threads. Obviously, we all enjoy posting back and forth and getting to know one another as an added bonus.

The problem was never the way the board is set up.

If there are people who feel like they’re spending too much time chatting instead of reading, isn’t that really a matter of self discipline? There are times I realize that I’m spending too much time posting in other threads but then, after I’ve had enough, I straighten myself out and start reading scripts again. Sometimes you need a break from reading and reviewing and sometimes you need to mix and mingle.

Yes, sometimes there are people who get carried away (myself included) but part of being an adult is correcting that and getting back on to what’s important. Some of the younger posters aren’t yet mature enough to do that but isn’t that the price we pay for having an open board? And any adult should have the maturity and discipline to avoid the other threads when “play time” is over.

This is just my opinion (which isn’t worth anything) but it seems to me that this board is doing pretty good. We’re for the most part like a unique family. We’re going to get irritated by each other sometimes and we’re going to act stupid sometimes. But so far as I can see, we’re for the most part able to work it out for ourselves. So sometimes it gets really annoying. But every artist needs a break. Taking a break is as important as the writing itself. It’s how we refresh and recharge and tap back into our sources of inspiration anew.

Just some thoughts.

Quoted from FilmMaker06 What if Don made it so that you couldn't post or see the other boards until you were at at like 50+ post count or above...?

That DOM guy is already at 50+ and I have yet to see something meaningful from him.

Quoted from Nixon (dn?) TriggerStreet has something like that.

Triggerstreet sucks.

Isn't it in Don's best interests to have as many active, posting members as possible?  I think this little experiment is more for our benefit -- and to satisfy his own curiousity.  You can't force people to read others -- there will always be people who are selfish, or just miss the point.  Whatever.

Don should do whatever is best for the boards as a whole -- in his opinion.

I'll continue to confine most of my reads to the active members, regardless of the form these boards eventually adopt.

I hate to say this but a review is not how long it is, it's how helpful it is at the end of the day. I find certain reviews more helpful then others like when someone tells you what they like and what doesn't work for them.

Those are the best because you find out what your specific audience would like, can't please everybody but if you find a core group of people who say this, this and that and another that hate it at least you know you don't have to scrap your hard work because one or two people don't like it.

I can't remember the last film that everybody liked, if that's ever happened anywhere on this planet even.

Some guys and gals change their entire vision based on 1 review even if it is George or Phil, they aren't the whole world and I wish people would stop ruining great work based off of reviews by people who probably aren't your audience to begin with. (Not meaning those two specifically but as an example.)

C'mon Wes, I'm like a god here.  People worship me.  They beg for my attention and blessings!  George is a nice guy, too.

I think that having a minimum number of characters in a post would eliminate all the 'attaboys,' 'this sucks' and 'me too's' from the boards.  It would also cut down on a lot of the threads that don't pertain to scriptwriting.


Phil

Wow! Over already? I thought this was going to last a few more days. Glad to see things back to normal. Nevertheless, I still have some reads I intend to live up to.

I enjoyed the exercise. It was a good idea to get the cobwebs out and get back to the screenplays for awhile. I enjoy the other distractions, but the reading is an important aspect of the board and we need to remember that.

Well, I've sat back and watched how this has gone and here's my two cents on the issue, before this thread comes to an end.

I can quite easily admit to being one of the chatterboxes on this forum. So, I do take a lot of responsibility for the off topic threads that have taken place over the last couple of years that I've frequented here. With that, my reason for joining was to upload my first fanfiction script. Not because I thought it would be made, but because I was interested in what other people's opinions of it would be. That's it. Then, as I received feedback, I became interested in reading other people's work, who had so kindly read mine. So, natural read for a read there. Then came the getting to know you's, then more reads for my fellow active friends on here.

Now, I've read a number of shorts by inactive members, but that's not an issue for me, because most of the time, I fancied a read and saw something that caught my attention. It doesn't really bother me too much if the writer doesn't reply to my review, because I'm not the best reviewer here at the end of the day and I'm not expecting a read back just because I read theirs(while it would be nice, it's never my intention). However, some have replied in email to say thanks, instead of on here. So, not all members who join aren't grateful... they just don't all do the discussion thing! I think that's up to them if that's what they prefer to do. Seems a bit pointless, but whatever.

I'm not trying to become a screenwriter, but have found the writing challenges to be very enjoyable, as I like a good challenge. So, my purpose for being here isn't to break into the industry to be honest. I like to read the active members works when I get a chance, and hopefully it helps them. If not, hopefully they're happy with just a simple review!

I do think it seems ungrateful to criticise the less in depth reviews, as to be honest, not everyone who signs up here does so to be a hardcore critic. You have to remember that similarly when you go to the movie theatre, some like to analyse every detail, while others just simply either liked, loved or hated it. Some don't feel they could give an in depth review. Do directors/producers/actors/whoever have a right to dismiss the audience members who don't have a lot to say about their movie? I think that would be ridiculous if that's the case. If anything, all reviews, from all kinds of people, both with an interest in writing and not, is always a help at the end of the day. So, all the expectations of a certain number of words to be posted in a review and what not, to me, seems to be asking a lot and also leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Like, if it's not this long, it isn't good enough... :-/

I do dislike seeing new members being jumped on so much too. I think it's slowly become this way and again, in my opinion, is too much. If I'd have joined now, and been straight away advised so very often, that I needed to read other stuff in order to be read, I honestly think it would have put me off sticking around. Just becasue it's too much too soon. Even if the advice was graciously given, it's just so confrontational at such an early stage when you're feeling out whether or not you want to contribute! That's something I've always thought about and wanted to say. Also, it bugs me when people start to read a script and then never finish it. It really does. Even if it sucks, it's so... for want of a better word, hurtful. Again, imagine everyone just walking out of a movie half-way through... sure, if it's bad, but still seems pointless to not stick it out to the end at the very least.

As for the off topic stuff, I totally see why this frustrates some of the members. I understand that recently things have become very heated, but that always happens on most boards. You can't avoid it, but exercises like this do help to remind people of the purpose of this site, which was a good idea.

However, as a chatterbox, I also realise my lack of place here, as I'm not serious about writing professionally, but am here for creative, mental stimulation and because I actually care about where some of you guys and gals end up, as I'd love to se you all succeed. So, I apologise for the many times I've contributed to the off topics stuff, which has taken away from everyone's works being read.

With that, I will keep checking in on how things are going and reading scripts from here, but it's difficult to know what's ok to chat about in general chat anymore, when it's mostly so frowned upon!

Anyways, this was my 5 cents in the end, so there ya go. Good luck with the writing everyone.

Andy

Sometimes I'm in the mood to just come onto the site and read some work, read some critiques and work on my writing.

Sometimes I'm in the mood to offer my opinion on off-topic subjects that are going on.

Sometimes I'm in the mood to create an off-topic post to see what other people from around the world say or respond to.

I like the options that SimplyScripts give me and I feel that I know a lot of you personally, even though we may never even post in the same thread.

Just a ramble.

In my opinion, if we weren't supposed to post off topic discussions, thre wouldn't be a topic for those discussions. General Chat is to discuss anything, so an off-topic in that board would actually be to discuss screenwriting (as Wesley has pointed out multiple times). The off topic stuff is what helps get our mind off writing at times, and to be honest, not talking about writing is part of the writing process.

It's that two weeks after you finish your first draft to getting into rewrites. The rule is to do whatever and get your mind off of it so you can go after it with the scissors later.

I think what's going on with some of the new posters is when they come in and post 5 replies to their own script thread asking why no one has read it yet. Every post they've made is on that thread, and they're miffed that no one is reading their stuff. Andy, you're part of the community and a fun part of it you make. A lot of us are aspiring screenwriters and I think the comments you've mentioned are directed to them, not necessarily to those who are in it for fun.

I liked the diversion this last week has given us, but I also know that we need the off topic stuff for sanity's sake. So feel free to continue to piss off those who feel we don't it, and amusing those of us who get a kick out of it. Without you, all that Tanuki business would never have happened, and while I never contributed to much of it, I was thoroughly entertained by the threads.

I think this reply is going to have a little bit of everything.

I enjoyed this week's exercise.  It got me more focused on the content of the website, plus there was no drama distracting me from reading.*** After four days of it or so it was getting kind of dry.  I found myself scrolling down the page to find none of the other boards.  I guess we all need that branched out discussion, as George said, for sanity's sake.  People who stayed around this week and continued reading I think we know have a passion for this thing and are loyal to the site.  

I'm not saying that if you didn't show up then you're a selfish jerk.  Everyone has shtuff going on in their lives and obviously don't have the time to read scripts, but if you look at who reviewed last week, or even who just posted in this thread--all regulars of the site.  A few people didn't post at all this week.  Maybe coincidence, I don't know.  Again, I'm not calling anybody names, I know everyone has a life, I just think the figures are interesting.

***Then we come to that one possible minor distraction which branches out even further.  We had a new addition who surpassed 50 "reviews" in only 5 days.  Of course they were all 1-3 liners, so what are we supposed to think of that?  I hate it when people do that.  It's happened to me a few times on here, as it has probably everybody.  You're trying to tell me that you read a 116 page screenplay and you only have 2 lines to say about it?  That doesn't only waste my time but it wastes yours.

Everyone here is an intelligent human being and we know when someone is sincere or not.  If DOM were to post something, would he get reads?  Maybe a few just for being all over the place.  But in 9.9 times out of 10, if you respond to a screenplay with 3 words, you're not going to read.  Like Phil said several posts ago, that film_utopia fellow was questioning why he didn't get read and the few scripts he made an effort to read he didn't get past page 5!  That won't get you read!  If someone reads my shtuff and gives at least a partially insightful review then I make my best effort to read something of theirs.

I guess that's all I have to say.  It was a peaceful week without all the fights and what-not, but I think we need the other boards just for sanity's sake.  I also think we know what may loom in the future if all the bickering continues.  Don is a very flexible person, but if we're all at each other's throats then it probably is in the best interest to close down the off-topic threads.  

George, I want nothing more than for you and the other people on this site, who I care about, to succeed... please let me make that clear! I just think that sometimes the newbies get a rough ride at first, but I totally do understand how it can be frustrating when some do post requesting reads a lot and don't look to be offering the same in return. I guess I was lucky I didn't have to ask for the reads, but I can imagine that when you're working so hard to perfect your own projects, that you don't want to be spending valuable time on people who you think might not seem worthy or appreciative, for yet again, want of a better word... ::)

Anyways, I want this place to be the best it can be for you guys and gals, so I'm not that bothered about the off topic/general stuff not being around, but... as I'm not an aspiring writer, I don't feel I have a right to be here sort of thing as much either, as all the general chat is frowned upon now. That's all really, but glad the tanuki still has some love, lol  ;)

Andy x

Frowned upon? I think again people took my idea and used it for a mutiny, I regret even bringing it up now because I was wrong as the idea doesn't really work.

Andy, you give yourself little credit, even if you're not a serious writer (How many people are?) you still are a big part of this community. Is Don a writer? Is Trailer Runs human? Does it matter?

Quoted from Old Time Wesley Is Trailer Runs human? Does it matter?

Thats hilarious! He IM'D me one day and started cussing at me and telling me he was drunk. ha-ha.

WARNING: This message is a bit off topic...just don't pay attention and move along, people.

Interesting exercise Don but I'm glad the boards are back..

I must say, I co-wrote a 10 page script, edited another 10 page script and helped to edit a 90 page feature-length script so the regular boards being switched off didn't do me any harm..

I usually log on as a guest at work just to have a read so I had to read scripts at work..

Bert, I owe you a review for your Breakers Yard script as I've read this.. I'll do it, honest..

I came on the boards tonight without realizing they were switched back on and I dived straight into reviewing 3 script shorts.. Must admit it, made me read and write some working into the wee small hours and I have a day job..

Saturday is lie-in morning (not day) up at 9:00m a.m.

Quoted from Kevan Bert, I owe you a review for your Breakers Yard script as I've read this.. I'll do it, honest.

That would be swell, Kev....only it ain't mine haha.

That's weird.  I don't even recognize that title...

But back on topic...I guess I like it better this way.  Don't kick yourself, Wes.  You meant well.

And Andy -- what the hell are you talking about, girl?  You and your Tanuki are like a ray of sunshine...

Quoted from Andy Petrou Anyways, this was my 5 cents in the end, so there ya go. Good luck with the writing everyone. Andy

Hear, hear!

Hey Andy,

Great couple of posts. You have every right to be here. As much as anyone else (except maybe Don of course). I agree that some of the new people are welcomed a bit harshly. It should be made clear that their chances of getting their own work read are increased with participation but that “read for read” isn’t mandatory. I’m more frustrated by reviewing something and never knowing if the writer even saw it but I get over it.

I would just like to add that I appreciate any feedback I get. I don’t care if it’s only a few words. True, if the reviewer doesn’t go into much detail then I don’t really know what he/she liked or disliked but who cares? It got read. Hey, if someone just wants to drop a line to tell me how wonderful I am, why would anyone have a problem with that?

Writers should appreciate anyone who took the time to comment on their work. These are the people who would go see your movie. They’re your potential fans and they deserve respect. Whether they’ve posted their own work or whether they have only a few comments.

Yes, the people who only care about themselves are annoying. What can you do? Besides ignore them and hope they go away?

Andy, you belong here and nothing or no one should make you feel otherwise.

Quoted from Old Time Wesley Is Don a writer? Is Trailer Runs human? Does it matter?

Wes, you crack me up. I must admit though, you almost scared me off the boards when I first arrived. I think your particular brand of humour takes a while to get used to. However, if it wasn't for you, these boards would be overrun with Trailer Runs'. You do a sterling job.

Andy, not a serious writer? Damn you! You're pretty damn good for a hobbyist.

I enjoyed this week although I didn't read any more scripts than usual 'cause I was busy. I also found myself hanging out on other (rival) forums so I could get my loglines critiqued and comment on ppls WIP. Make of that what you will.

If you're a regular on the site then everything is cool.  Everybody knows you, hopefully respects you, and anything you do shouldn't be an issue.  I actually thought Andy was an aspiring writer based on the quality of her work.  Just one of my 50 daily errors I guess.  It's not that the off topic boards are frowned upon, it's sometimes what happens in them that's frowned upon.  When things are taken out of line, and then fights start up, then everyone comes to the site looking to see who's yelling at who rather than what's being reviewed or not.  

The read/get read thing isn't mandatory, but it's just a good idea to go by.  Usually if someone is very active, the reading issue won't come up.  Look at how Tomson made her entrance.  Hung around for a couple months, read and reviewed plenty of scripts, then posted some of her shtuff and got a batch of nice reviews.  But whatever.  Hopefully there won't be anymore fights so then the whole thing will just dissolve on its own.

I reviewed one feature and one short. I fell short of my goal, but it was more than I do most weeks, so I guess it worked for me.

I thought it worked great.

Quoted from bert Don't kick yourself, Wes.  You meant well.

I second that, Bert.

Steven, you brought up a very valid point about the purpose of this site and you shouldn't feel bad about anything, because you do a superb job and everyone needs a reminder every now and then, especially recently when things became heated around here. So, don't feel bad about anything, got it?  :P

Thanks everyone for the lovely comments, you're all so very kind  ;D

No Martin, sadly I'm not really an aspiring screenwriter. However, when I have participated in the one week writing challenges, I have put every ounce of my being into those scripts, just because I wanted to do my best and see what results I could get. Still searching for that dream job and career... will work it out one day, lol  :) I do often think about trying to aim for a career in writing, but really wouldn't have a clue on where to begin or anything.

Nevertheless, writing still does mean the world to me, but just not on a professional level at present. I do often have so many ideas for scripts, but it seems that these writing challenges give me a greater push to participate than anything else does right now. Writing Goonies was and will be my best work, purely because it will always be the one script which took me on a real adventure. So, posting it was the end of that journey, but it was and is one of my biggest achievements to date. I may still try to do something with it, as Kevan has inspired me so much and because I'm stalling on Canada now, I may have time to do re-writes afterall.

I think there is an abundance of real talent here on this forum, and can't wait to see more new threads announcing great news for those people. I haven't been reading as much as I would have liked to, but will be getting back to it asap.

*spreads SS love* (could I BE any cheesier???! :K))

Andy x

Hey, Andy

You're a star, don't let anybody tell you otherwise..

Your Goonie screenplay is outstanding, it's a full-length feature, you wrote it and have a completed product there and this makes you a screenwriter in my book..

If you applied the same energy you invested in writing the Goonie script, to say an original story of yours, I reckon you'd find it no problem at all to write another full-length screenplay.. You've done it once, why not again.. It gets easier after the first time (no pun intended)..

And regarding being a contributing member, you've written a good short too and you write a lot of reviews of other people's work and this makes you a fully-paid-up-member as far as I'm concerned...

You could write anything Andy because you are capable of expressing yourself using the written word, so if you wanted to you could probably write articles for magazines, newpapers, on-line articles for certain media type web sites and portals, you could write film reviews, you could probably review short stories and novels, hey, maybe biographies - there's no end to what you can do because you have a personal writing style which is a pleasure to read... I enjoy what you write because you're very good and you have a wonderful friendly personality which tells me I bet you would be a great friend to have in the real world.. Nobody can ask for more than that, in themselves or with other people they interect with in their lives..

You've got special qualities girl, and that means a whole lot...

You mean a lot to me and to people on these boards because you are you...

We love you Andy...


Kev
xx

Hey, Andy

You're a star, don't let anybody tell you otherwise..

Your Goonie screenplay is outstanding, it's a full-length feature, you wrote it and have a completed product there and this makes you a screenwriter in my book..

If you applied the same energy you invested in writing the Goonie script, to say an original story of yours, I reckon you'd find it no problem at all to write another full-length screenplay.. You've done it once, why not again.. It gets easier after the first time (no pun intended)..

And regarding being a contributing member, you've written a good short too and you write a lot of reviews of other people's work and this makes you a fully-paid-up-member as far as I'm concerned...

You could write anything Andy because you are capable of expressing yourself using the written word, so if you wanted to you could probably write articles for magazines, newpapers, on-line articles for certain media type web sites and portals, you could write film reviews, you could probably review short stories and novels, hey, maybe biographies - there's no end to what you can do because you have a personal writing style which is a pleasure to read... I enjoy what you write because you're very good and you have a wonderful friendly personality which tells me I bet you would be a great friend to have in the real world.. Nobody can ask for more than that, in themselves or with other people they interect with in their lives..

You've got special qualities girl, and that means a whole lot...

You mean a lot to me and to people on these boards because you are you...

We love you Andy...


Kev
xx

I've just had an idea Don

Why don't you repeat the one week idea every 4th week of the month, that way we are forced to read and review scripts on the final week of every month..

People can still do the same week in week out, including reading and reviewing, but to devote an intire week, as suggested at the end of each month may not be as bad an idea as it sounds..

To be fair, the other boards being switched off for a week did increase reads and reviews and writing from my part and I'd be interested to hear what you and other board members thought of this suggestion..

Kev

Kev, I think you choked me up! What a lovely post. I'm really so very touched. Thank you so much. It's good to know that you have that much faith in me, and it's always comforting to know that the way I express myself is ok! I don't think I can thank you enough for the compliments, because I'm still in awe of them. I appreciate your support and think I need to get my ass into gear so I can write some more!! 3 scripts down... I know I have a heck of a lot more in my noggin waiting to be released  :)

As for this exercise taking place once a month, I think that could be a good thing in the long run and would help to keep the overall purpose of the site in mind, in a constructive way.

Andy x

I thought the one week excercise worked fine, personally.  I got to read some scripts and I noticed the pleasant absence of 'What do you guys think of this idea of the day?'


Phil

Quoted from dogglebe I noticed the pleasant absence of 'What do you guys think of this idea of the day?'

Oh, yeah.  Good point.  I didn't miss those, either.

So what's the verdict Don thumbs up or down?

Quoted from Takeshi So what's the verdict Don thumbs up or down?

Takeshi,

The verdict is .  I probably will not do this again anytime soon.  Interestingly, with the fewer boards to post on, I actually spent more time fielding questions and deleting more posts in a day that I normally do in a week.  These deletions were 90% "I like this script" and off topic posts.  

Don

Hey Don, do you read all of the scripts that are submitted or is it kind of a glance over for content and formatting thing?

I know that I'm really slow and that this thread is old; nevertheless I thought I'd reply.

My work includes a heavy duty amount of reviews/critiques as well as research work, skill building,  and of course, my own writing.

In my opinion, a good way to develop as a writer is to integrate life into the "Writer's Magic Tricks Bag". This means that one thing should never be exclusive on its own-- in other words: Writing without psychology isn't really going to cut it. Writing without context isn't going to do much good either. And writing without reading, watching and internalizing the emotions evoked from whatever it is one is reading and watching doesn't help to move the writer beyond themselves.

What I'm trying to say, (in a round about way) is that the beauty of this forum is that it's a "Life Forum". It integrates people's experiences and doesn't exist in a way that people's "asides" are irrelevant.

The comments that come from chat and spontaneous posts (that might seem to be off topic) are completely ON TOPIC. And I'm no lawyer, and not very good at arguing, but if I were to argue it, I'd say that: Writing is about life; so the question is: Does life have a narrow focus? No.

To add to this however, I should say that having a technical forum or a straight-up reviews forum is probably a super-de-duper idea. Just thinking about ways to improve the site and ask for people's input is excellent for everyone.

I belong some groups with crit quotas. You might also consider having crit contests, movie review contests... I could go on and on here...

I think the most important thing is to segment what you want where. I guess that keeps everyone happy.

Sandra