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Date Posted: 17:44:03 05/15/09 Fri
Author: Ravenbeauty
Subject: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers.

Hey Gang,



We've been down a long road together that's for sure. I've been putting these columns out for nearly a decade now (since 2001 actually).

I want to thank the many fans out there who truly seemed to appreciate my efforts. I want to especially thank my sources who have been wonderful to me and have given us many casting scoops over the years. The list is endless and I am forever grateful.

Some of the actors have personally contacted me over the years and have proven to be nothing short of lovely and kind and refreshingly genuine and real. I want to thank you so very much for brightening my day with your notes and messages of encouragement (you know who you are). Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I am one of those people who detests those "goodbye cruel board" messages if you know what I mean, so I have done everything in my power to avoid doing one over the years. This is so hard for me because I will miss you very much and truly enjoyed doing this for you.

I did them because they were fun and enjoyable and got everyone talking and worked up about the show. Dishing is always fun and it certainly adds a lot of spice to a dying genre. My sources have been incredibly reliable, however they are not perfect and neither am I. I know that a great many of you are aware of the unpleasantness that I have had to deal with as a result of providing these for you weekly, so I began to cut back because quite frankly, I didn't know if I even wanted to continue anymore.

I know that a great many of you have been nothing but supportive and decent and I thank you for this. Unfortunately the louder and uglier voices took all the fun and enjoyment out of this for me. It's hard when you watch scoops that originated in your column be credited somewhere else (and this is all the time) and the things that never even originated with you and were never even said by you, are suddenly credited to you by some demented twist of nature. I've seen my words twisted to the point where they are no longer even recognizable to me. There was an actress who returned twice to a show that nobody ever expected her to return to. I was the lone voice in both instances at the time and was first to tell fans she was coming back. Despite the many denials, she did in fact come back both times. When I heard that they were mulling around with the idea of approaching her a third time, I let you know as I always have. When this third return did not come to fruition, I was suddenly told that I had led that fan base on purposely and lied to them! To say I was shocked would be an understatement. It is but one example of very bizarre and irrational behavior that I have encountered as a gossip columnist. As a mere messenger, I have just been shot too many times and this time I can't seem to stop the bleeding.

I've learned that you can put out a hundred scoops and the 80 that come to pass are never spoken of, only the 20 that got away. When you are dishing for an industry such as daytime television, changes are handed down constantly. None of us can possibly begin to predict what changes will be made since what we are given, is but a snapshot in time. Most of you seem to understand how this works and have just been grateful for the many casting scoops you have received here over the years. It is because of you that I have even continued this long, so thank you.

I remember years ago reading a message in a similar vein to the one I leave you now, by someone I respected greatly at the time (still do). He was wonderful and I just adored him and his flamboyant personality. I remember the day that Sage came out to tell us that he simply couldn't go on anymore. That the negativity and extreme unpleasantness had worn him down. That he was done. I was heartbroken back then because he was so very special and so much fun to read, but now I understand how it feels to have a 1000 pound microscope leveled over you like a guillotine over-analyzing your every word (even putting words in your mouth). What it's like to never receive credit for what was yours, but only for what didn't work out or what never even came from you to begin with (or God forbid just hasn't happened fast enough). I understand now what it feels like to be smacked around when all you are doing is providing something that is free and fun for fans to read each week. I think I now understand why such a confidant and vibrant person such as Sage had to step back at that time. I guess you have to be there to fully understand and that's where I am now.

I need to step back. I love you guys and I mean that from the heart. Your loyalty and your support has meant the world. Unfortunately the scales have been tipped to the point where all the fun has been drained out of this for me. I really and truly tried to hang in there. I'm made of flesh and blood, not steel. I'm just a person who wrote a popular gossip column for many years and was lucky enough to garner a few real sources along the way, but I'm only human. I'm not perfect and not a machine and feel things just as you do.

I've stepped back from everything soap related so you will probably not see me anymore at SOC either. I hope you will continue to give them your support and respect and enjoy the many wonderful aspects of that site.

Thank you for your years of readership. I will miss you more than you know.

Good luck and God Bless. Much love to all of you.

Respectfully,

Ravenbeauty

Last edited by author: Fri May 15, 2009 17:45:01   Edited 1 time.

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Replies:

[> I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- Melanie, 20:39:52 05/15/09 Fri [1]

I was so depressed after reading your message. As it is I was going through withdrawals only getting your column once a month. You were such a bright spot during my weekends. Nobody dishes like you Raven. I want you to know that you really are an amazing writer who managed to keep us enthralled and excited to see what would happen next. I can't imagine the soaps without you but I understand. I've seen some of he nonsense and it was always incredibly mind boggling to me. I am amazed that you took it as long as you did.

I'm so sorry. You have given us so much for such a long time. Thank you. Sending love your way.

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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- Diana (Sad), 22:06:09 05/15/09 Fri [1]

I have enjoyed reading your columns & hope that something will happen to make you reconsider your decision to walk away. Who cares what naysayers have to say - you are better than they are! You have done a great job, especially letting all your readers know when one of our faves was being shown the door. I have contacted the powers that be many times with letters urging them to keep actors on the shows. The ABC Soaps really need you and all the loyal ABC Soap Fans really need you. Don't let the creeps beat you down. Stay strong & don't listen to any negative comments about the things you say. True fans do know how these things work & appreciate all that you have tried to do. Don't walk away from your column PLEASE!

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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- creamyfluff (sad), 22:57:01 05/15/09 Fri [1]

*****sniff*****wiping tears from my eyes! It is sad that it has come to this point but we all understand why you need to step away at this time. I have loved reading your column for years, you are a true gem for sharing soap scoops with us as long as you did. You will be greatly missed by us all.

(((((((HUGS)))))))))

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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- chinamom7, 07:47:21 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I am so going to miss you. Your column was my favorite thing to read on the board and I loved trying to guess at some of the clues. I am so sorry there were people out there that were so mean and hateful to you. They should be the ones to nonexist. It is understandable why you are leaving but hopefully one day soon you may give us another chance to enjoy your column. I wish you the very best life has to offer.

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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- Diane Kattar, 09:39:02 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Dear Ravenbeauty,

I want to thank you for your wonderful columns that I read faithfully everytime you posted them. It is such a shame that you were treated so badly by a few posters, and so unfair. Your columns reflected the arduous work that went into them, and Raven they were so well written and a pleasure and privelege to read. I wish you the very best, and please know that a great majority on the boards really appreciate you. I'm so upset that you were made to feel badly, and shame on those that made you feel that way. Best of luck, and thank you, Raven. I will truly miss you!
Sincerely,
Diane

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[> [> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- Deb Leigh (down in the dumps), 02:03:17 05/19/09 Tue [1]

Raven,
I'm just heartbroken that you feel like you must stop writing your column. I understand where you are coming from but I will miss you and your wit. I joined SOC because of you and waited with bated breath for your next posting.
Tear are in my eyes,
Deb

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[> [> Soap fans are hurting this genre -- Pumpkinoodles (sad.......................), 23:58:08 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I can only assume there’s been a lot of backlash against your recent spoiler about one fair-headed fan fave who opted not to return to a soap that, quite frankly, didn’t treat her very well. I can see why negotiations stalled, and those of us with any brains understood that your spoiler was not incorrect; the actress changed her mind. It happens.

That you are abused for your free efforts astounds me. Soap fans are very vocal, and I think it’s killing this genre. How much positive press is out there? Rather than write about what we like, fans vent about everything that’s wrong. How long can this genre withstand such a lack of support from the very people who say they love it? Our actions show otherwise, as do the ratings.

You will be missed, and your efforts were not lost on me.

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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- EKEK, 00:50:27 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Teddy Roosevelt: "It is not the critic that counts. Not the man that points out how the strong man stumbled or where the doer of good deeds could have done better."

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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- mcs (sad), 06:29:39 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I have been reading your column for years but have never posted. I am going to miss you. I hope some day you will return. Take care!

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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- bobbymartin46, 07:55:54 05/22/09 Fri [1]

I tried to alert the SOC AMC message board readers on Monday of your decision to terminate your spoiler/casting speculation column at VoyForums, but it was removed by the Message Board Moderator(Message Board Censor???) within 10 minutes of its posting. Apparently your departure is off-topic to AMC discussion. For all your years of contrubutions to SOC, I would have believed they would have allowed you a proper farewell. Kind of reminds me of how AMC treated Julia Barr when she left. Just pretended she never existed. On a more positive note. Thank-you for all your years contributing to SOC. I looked forward to your column every week. You will be sorely missed.

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[> [> I'm so sorry to see you go. Good luck and good will to you! -- Cindi, 06:54:21 05/24/09 Sun [1]


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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- Monique (Sad), 10:44:16 06/03/09 Wed [1]

I am truly sad to see this happen. I loved your info. I loved being in the know because my friends werent. Just to let you know. Your work have not went unnoticed. We love you and always will love you.

I hope you are coming back to read this so you know that there are people who really appreciate you sweetie.

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[> [> Re: I want to cry! God you are going to be missed! -- Contralto (I am sorry), 04:23:23 06/06/09 Sat [1]

Dear Raven, I was looking for your column and could not find anything by you! I saw the Linda Hirsch posting and was hoping she was not talking about you and that did not drive you away... as I read your columns and you did not spoil the mystery in any way. Found you though google.

I don't know what went on - but your colums were fun to read and I enjoyed them.

Please feel free to include my email in your list so if you ever have the urge to pen again on your owh site I( would like to be among the first to receive it.

In appreciation of your work and the hours of enjoyment it provided me.

Sincerely,

Contralto
AMC HUGE fan, also OLTL and GH in that order...

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[> Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo -- KC, 22:53:32 05/15/09 Fri [1]

Please say it isn't so!!!!!

Please don't let the jealous jerks out there make you call it a day. The internet is full of crazies and yes a lot of them are soap fans. Please don't let them get to you like this. You have been such a wonderful source for so long for me. God I just want to scream. I can't even think straight right now so I'll be back when I can compose myself better.

I am so sad and miss you already! :(

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Suzanne Gagliano (GO IN PEACE), 23:14:54 05/15/09 Fri [1]

It's never easy to walk away from something that's been so much a part of you. But, I also think that when something IS that much a part of you, than that's the PERFECT time to walk away........How completely Brave of you.

God Bless You, Suzanne

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Nina, 00:19:50 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Best wishes Raven and thank you.

I do have to be selfish and ask if there is any chance of a final column?

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Cassie, 00:54:42 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Thank you Raven, for everything you've provided for us. You will be greatly missed. There will never be another that even comes half as close!!

Best of luck, dear!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Soapee (sad), 03:01:47 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Thank you for everything you've done for us through the years.
It's now time for you to have YOU time.
You will be terribly missed though.

Soapee

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[> Raven's leaving -- Laura Lanham, 05:01:44 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I have been reading your column for about two years now and have greatly enjoyed your insights. The amount of work that you obviously put into this column is unbelievable. I eagerly turned on my computer every Saturday for an undate and when you went to once a month, I searched the same. I thank you for the years of enjoyment when I was not able to watch the Soaps. Good luck to you and I hope that your wounds heal.

Laura

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[> [> Re: Raven's leaving -- Bailey, 06:43:51 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I second that! Raven, you will be missed. It really was a pleasure to read your column, and I looked forward to your next post with a great deal of anticipation. It's a shame that a few jaundiced people have ruined it for Raven -- and the rest of us.

Be well, Raven, and happy trails . . .

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Mikel (sad), 08:05:24 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I have been a lurker on your board for years now, and never took the opportunity to thank you for all you've done to keep us spoiled. I stopped watching ABC soaps when REG left OLTL, but I continued to read your column, Raven. I appreciated your class, as well as your spoils.

You will be sorely missed.

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Tama, 03:52:48 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I, too, am a lurker. I have always enjoyed your column and will miss you immensly. Even though I am saddened that you feel the need to leave, I understand.

Peace

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[> [> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Lynda, 14:17:57 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Dearest, darling Ravey--know that you will take a piece of our hearts with you wherever you go. Also know that we will always, ALWAYS remember you, and will think of you often as we watch the stories unfold---you were more than a source of information, you were our comrade in arms, our girl behind the scenes, our sudzy friend, who rocked our spoiler world leaving a trail of bubbles and lather behind.
Thank you for giving so much of your time, effort, energy and heart to us--you will be missed--but ya gotta know girl, in soapland, goodbye is NEVER final.
See ya in the Chandler attic, we're saving you a seat and fresh "scoop" of whipped cream for that latte! Onward! Upward! And all of the best to you in whatever you do!
hugs!! Lynda (Scherazade from SOC)

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[> I love your column but I completely understand why you can't do it anymore. -- Go Bucks thanks Raven for all her hard work over the years!, 08:10:23 05/16/09 Sat [1]


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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Helen, 08:42:03 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I have never posted before but have had your site at the top of "my favorite places" for a long time. I am sorry to see you go under these circumstances. But I do want to thank you for your insights over the years. It has been great fun and you will be missed!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Gerri (:(), 09:27:21 05/16/09 Sat [1]

It's so awful that people can take the wind out of our sails. I am sad so sad to see you not writing about the soaps any more Raven but I do understand.

Hugs,
Gerri
Salem OR

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- gigi, 09:45:05 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I too have been a lurker and have enjoyed your column so much. Thank you and go in peace you will be missed

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- CatchPSU, 09:58:44 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I will miss your column. Thank you for all the scoops you provided.

I must say I was really hoping you would have a juicy story about the death of Adam Chandler.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- DesertSmiley, 10:06:44 05/16/09 Sat [1]

You will be so very missed. I've loved trying to solve your casting riddles and watching and waiting to see if your predictions would come true. What a shame that a few creepy people took the pleasure of your column away from you (and from us!).

Thank you for the years of reading enjoyment that you've shared with me. Best of luck to you always!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Christopher (sad), 10:16:58 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I have been a long time reader but I have never posted before. I wish I had before so that you could know how much I loved reading your column. I hate that it took me this long to post. Please know you are appreciated and you will be missed!!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Cindy (heartbroken but appreciative), 10:36:33 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Ravey darling,
Thank you for the hundreds of weekends you brought joy to my world. Your work was always appreciated here. I wish you great success with your next venture, whatever that may be. I know the pain of walking away from something you love. May you find comfort in knowing that you made a lasting difference in so many lives. There are so many of us who looked forward to your columns--and they brought us many, many smiles over the years. I wish you as much joy and happiness as you have brought to us over these years.
Hugs,
cb

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Tammy, 11:11:36 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Raven I have read your column for years but have never posted. Thank you so much for all your columns. I don't think you will ever know how many people have anticipated what will be revealed in each new post. I am a huge T & D fan and I wanted you to know even though I am a bit crazy there are many of us that realize not all the soap rumblings will come true. We do so appreciate all the spoilers and rumors over the years.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- PDizzle, 10:44:06 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Raven:
thanks for the years of enjoyment you have provided me. I have been a longtime reader who hasn't posted much. I've bookmarked this column on many many computers over the years. I wish you much success in the future. If you ever decide to return, I'll be back. Thanks!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Michelle, 11:07:38 05/16/09 Sat [1]

This is terrible. We'll miss you. You are the second major dish and scooper I know to say goodbye and it is so sad.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- osu87, 11:09:55 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Thank you and for those of us who never went to SOC, can you give us the link?????

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- flex22v, 14:04:20 05/17/09 Sun [1]

SOC is soapcentral.com

:)

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Amanda (Sad), 12:14:36 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I just started reading here about a year ago, and already had become reliant on you for my scoops! I am so sad to hear what this board has lead you to, and totally understand and respect your decision. Hopefully your next endeavor will bring you happiness and serenity!

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[> Ravenbeauty - You are my spoiler queen! I am going to miss you and just loved how you wrote your column and threw -- Belinda, 12:23:40 05/16/09 Sat [1]

other comments about other shows in there...this is just such a shock to me but I understand and will really miss you a lot.
I love you! This is just so sad to me.
God bless you!
Your Friend,
Belinda

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[> This is sad but not surprising. -- Kyle, 12:30:18 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I dreaded this day, but knew it was coming and yes I remember Sage. That was sweet of you to mention him the way you did. There has been nobody quite like you in all the years I have been out here reading internet rumor and gossip. You really were the best. Your style, your flair and everything about you.

I've seen some of what you spoke of and thought it was really a compliment of sorts. People only gossip about people who are interesting and cause a stir and that's what you did so brilliantly out here. You were the reigning queen (you always will be to me).

Here's hoping you have a change of heart (a guy can dream can't he). It's been amazing. Thank you.

Be well beautiful.

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[> thank you rb I will miss you -- julia, 12:40:47 05/16/09 Sat [1]


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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- C. Robe (Sad), 13:08:08 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Losing you is like losing a member of my family. Here's hoping you change your mind--hard to imagine not having your column to look forward to. Please reconsider.

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[> Please come back! -- Sad, 13:58:02 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I have enjoyed your site immensely and am sad to see you leave. We will miss you terribly. Always loved reading your spoilers and never doubted what you said and never gave it a second thought about someone else taking credit for your hard work. Every week I would read your column and after would call up an elderly woman and tell her everything about One life to live and she so looked forward to it. She could hardly wait to tell her friends at the beauty salon. It made her day. It also made mine. I hope that you will change your mind and come back because you have no idea how much we really appreciate you and look forward to hearing from you.

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[> [> Re: Please come back! -- Carole (Very Saddend), 01:23:37 05/24/09 Sun [1]

Dear Raven, I love you column and send the link right to my grown daughter in CA so we can gossip about all of the scoops. She and I have shared the soaps since she was about 7 and now she watches with her 7 year old.

Raven, your flair for writing and your sheer enthusiasm for the genre made for such interesting reading. I am terribly sad and frustrated that the "haters" have to ruin this job for all of the rest of us...just as they are ruining the board and eventually the soap it's self.

I'm a GH and AMC fan and you've only made the watching experience better, and no one is 100% accurate when dealing with other human beings. Things change etc. I've always understood that and realized that what could be gospel in one day could be garbage the next. Not your fault certainly.

Raven, great good fortune in whatever you do, I hope we'll see you again. Please try to let us know where to find you if you open your own site. [revenge is the best reward] ha ha Maybe we'll see you on the red carpet commentating some day.

Hugs and much appreciation Raven,
Carole [Karojen]

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- FredTay (You will be missed), 14:15:12 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I have never posted before but love your columns and looked forward to reading them. You will truely be missed and I loved how you kept us informed of the audition scripts. This is one persons life you brighten when I checked and you had posted the latest updates. I relied on your information because I trust your Work and Integrity. Best of luck to you in the future and I hope that occasionally you will still post. May God Bless.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Theresa (Sad), 14:23:13 05/16/09 Sat [1]

I have also been a reader for years, but I have never posted. You have been absolutely amazing. I watched AMC for over 20 years, stopped 2 years ago and just read you column. I am sad to hear what people have put you through especially after the wonderful things you have given us. You are an excellent writer and I will miss you very much. With that said, I suggest you really enjoy your life, make it more carefree as it is really too short. I respect and admire your decision and wish you well. Thank you for all of these years of scoops.

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[> Oh Raven, all these years. I first "met" you many years ago -- LAwoman, 15:25:15 05/16/09 Sat [1]

at SOC. What I always loved (and still do) about you is how you kept your grace when attacked by idiots. But most of all, how you stood up for others being bashed. You hold a special place in my heart. It's sad for us, but I hope a good thing for you, to walk away. I know your life is full and you will be happy. You so deserve the best that life has to offer. Your strength and courage (and I'm not talking soap stuff here) is an inspiration. I hope you'll stay in touch and drop in for a chat about whatever if the mood strikes you. I'll keep checking here just for the hell of it and you know where to find us. Love you baby!

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[> [> Re: Oh Raven, all these years. I first "met" you many years ago -- Reklat, 05:02:23 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I try to be an optimist. I remember Sage getting burned out; but he came back with Sage's Place.That link is to his free section, with a short weekly dish. He does have subscriptions for his "Get More" section, and now I wonder if people who charge for their site don't get as much abuse. (I think that is sad.)
But the point is that he found a way to come back, albeit in a different form.

My hope is that you, Raven, will find a bit of Phoenix blood running under those shiny feathers, and will someday be reborn from the ashes fully healed.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Kay, 21:35:31 05/16/09 Sat [1]

Have been a reader but have never posted before. Will greatly miss your column as I only trusted what you said and not the others. Take care of yourself and God Bless.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Jelena, 00:26:18 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven, I am so sorry to see you go, I've been following your column since almost day one. In life there are many roads and experiances, I understand why you're doing this and frankly have seen it coming. As you move out and on please remember all the goodness you've done and what fun this column was. When I first started reading there was "stuff" going on in my life and the column became my fun place to go to every weekend. For that I will forever thank you for being there every weekend, you are and did a fantastic job - Good luck to you, God Bless and I will miss you!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Stefania, 00:50:55 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I feel like every time I find a blog I enjoy to read, the author always decides to end it within a couple years. Maybe I should stop reading! But all kidding aside, I have been checking in with you for probably a little over a year now and, although I don't actually watch any of the soaps anymore, you were my way of finding out if there was anything I did want to check out. I never posted a thank you so I would like to say thank you now for all of your hard work. Best wishes for the future.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Angella (Sad), 00:55:11 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Its so sad that someone can come in and rain on everyones day. You have done nothing wrong. I started coming to ur site about 2 years back. And have injoyed reading week after week. This site is my outlet. And being a stay at home mom. I look forword to this. And is makes me so mad that because someone said you lied, you are leaving us. Please from all ur fans reconsider. Forget whatever that jerk said. And from all the things I have read from you. You have always said RUMUR. Not fact. So I dont know what the heck that jerk is talking about. But please do not punish us for what someone else did. I beg you . Please dont.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Kathy, 01:27:26 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I've never posted before, but I've enjoyed reading your column over the years. Every Saturday I check frequently, hoping to see that you've posted more spoilers. I want to thank you for the time you've put into these postings. Reading for only one Soap, I can hardly imagine the amount of time and energy it must take to write for all of those you write for. You will be incredibly missed.

I'm so sorry that some people take these spoilers and these soaps so seriously that they would deliberately steal someone else's work or so cruelly react when a spoiler doesn't come about.

I personally hope that you will reconsider and come back, but I understand why you're leaving.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Bri, 02:17:12 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Long time lurker and fan, just wanted to express my thanks for the scoops. May God bless you and keep you well :)

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- TucMeIn, 02:55:08 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I totally understand, Raven, but I am truly saddened by it. Mean people make everything good go away. Shame on them.

God speed and blessings to you, Raven.

p.s. MEAN PEOPLE SUCK!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- macipoo, 03:13:12 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven, I love your column and I do hope that one day you will return!!!!There will always be critics but I feel, after spending so many weekends reading your columns, that there are by far more supporters then critics. Please try and keep this in mind. I do hope to read a column again:(

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Thom Hunt, 03:23:33 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I, too, am a longtime fan of yours who has never written. I'm sad to see you go. I understand, though. Some (not all) soap fans get a little too heated and involved in these FICTIONAL worlds. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted and I wish you nothing but the best in your future endeavors. Thank you so much, Raven. You WILL be missed.

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[> Thank you, Ravenbeauty. -- TV Gord, 03:25:09 05/17/09 Sun [1]

While a part of me is sad to see this day, there's a bigger part of me (hmmm, I didn't MEAN for that to sound dirty...;-) who has been your FRIEND longer than he has been a disciple. That side of me is extremely happy that you've mustered up the courage to make it final.

I could tell this hasn't been fun for you for a long, long time. You've been doing it for us, but it continued to be a chore. No one should be doing something like this if it continues to be a thankless job. It's supposed to be fun!!! If it stops being fun and becomes a chore, it's turns into a dysfunctional relationship.

As I've said to you privately, I long for the days when soaps become fun for you again...when you might even possibly start posting as a plain ol' fan again. While I always loved your scoops, I've always missed Ravenbeauty, my board buddy.

Finally, a thank you. For all the scoops, for all the peeks into the future (what is now a sad, but inevitable future), for the good humor and for cushioning the blow as the industry continues to decline, and for the classy way in which you carried on despite those who gave you grief, I say thanks, Ravenbeauty. Simply, thanks.

I'm looking forward to seeing your "name" again. [ Who knows, maybe Pratt will bring Michael Nader back, and you'll read my post on the matter...and ("Send"), there you'll be! ;-D ] Whatever the circumstance, I hope to hear from you that you are happy and healthy and on to another great outlet for your obvious talents. You can't keep a great Beauty down, certainly not a Raven one. :-)

Love always,
TV Gord

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- JBransonluva, 03:30:59 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven,

Once again the 'trolls of the internet' win by chasing away YET ANOTHER good-hearted, well-meaning soap opera loving person with credible sources. Your passion and dish will be sorely missed by all of us whom have appreciated you talking WITH US, never AT US...or demanding we 'conform' to your way of thought since you have never come across as such a person.

I am well aware of the entities you mention. This is, unfortunately, the way of our Country and the World right now. Mean-spiritedness and outright evil 'trolls' are in control. If anybody (here or elsewhere) think for one minute that these 'trolls' have the 'best interest' of the soap medium at heart? Think again. They have system- atically, by working together and creating more web sites, ruined 'the fun' of watching the soaps for true fans. They 'report' news and spoilers with venom, spite and bias.

It's a shame that the networks, producers, writers and actors are running across such sites and reading them. They provide a very delusional slant to this medium that nobody in power should deem reliable or sound.

You will be incredibly missed, Raven. Take my best wishes and prayers with you.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Lisa, 03:36:16 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I am very sorry to hear the closing down your column. I can only hope that it's going to be your break instead of something more permanent nature. I know it must be hard for you to face such opposition at times but I've greatly appreciated all the work you've done and continue to do.. I wish you well and much happiness in the future I hope to see you on SOC

SINCERELY yours

Lisa

SOC SN Carson4ever2004

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[> Thanks Raven...you will be missed! -- Msnanice, 04:00:29 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I will miss your spoilers, thanks for hanging in there as long as you did.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- hawkgirl, 04:04:46 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Although I am extremely disappointed, I understand that you need to do this. You say that you will be missed, is a great understatement. Your column and spoilers became a very pleasant part of weekend. I am really saddend that this has happend to you.

Godd bless Ravenbeauty. Good luck.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Ray, 04:25:23 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven,

Thank you. Thank you for so many years of your wonderful column. It was something I always looked forward to reading on Saturdays. You truly are a special person and you're going to be missed by all of us, your fans. I wish you the very best in life. Take care. Much love to you.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Lori (Heartbroken), 04:45:47 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven, you will truly be missed. You brought me to this board. I have enjoyed and truly appreciated every word you have put your sweat and hard word into. Please know that my prayers and good wishes are with you and wish you a happy future!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- jude (sad), 04:55:29 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Cream always rises to the top and you have always been the "cream of the crop". Thank you for the many years of joy and fun you gave us with your column. Take care of yourself.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Zoey, 04:56:04 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Dear Raven Beauty:
A heavy heart is what I feel now realizing that you will no longer be a voice. We pray and wish you well in your future endeavors and want to send you a big thank you for all you have done for us in the soap community. God Bless and be safe!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Erica'sEvilTwin, 04:58:56 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Long term lurker here - I am wondering if you might consider doing something like a Facebook page? That way you restrict access to those of us who actually appreciate all your wonderful efforts. If you are drained, I can certainly understand that - there are FAR too many haters in this world, but something like FB might give you an opportunity to find your love for scooping again. If you give someone access and they abuse the priveledge, its a simple process to defriend them.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Starlette (sad), 05:10:51 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I totally didn't expect this. It saddens me to know that you won't be doing this column anymore. I have been reading your column for about two years but never posted. I want to thank you for all the hard work you've done for us. I can understand wanting to get all that negative weight off your shoulders. I'll be checking back, in case you decide to post about something none soap related, like sage did.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Jenga, 05:26:40 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Ravenbeauty,
I also want to thank you for years of a wonderful column. The first thing I did every Saturday was check for your column and I am also heartbroken that you've been driven away. I hope you let us know if you ever put out another column even if it's about cement mixers. I always loved your style. Take care of yourself and drop us a line every now and again. We love you.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Rachel (Sad), 05:27:06 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I am new to this site and to your spoilers, but i have genuinely enjoyed them in this short time. I understand how the negative gets to people and wears them down, but know many of us have enjoyed u for however long and will always enjoy reading if u ever post again. Enjoy the peacefulness that comes from not posting, and remember you are a million times better then those who bash u; it's like they say in most things: those who can do, those who cant bash. I will miss reading ur postings and wish u nothing but the best.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Sally, 05:54:45 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Ravenbeauty:

I too have been a lurker, but have faithfully read your columns for years. I just want to say thank you for all you have done and I for one have truly appreciated what you do. When people rail at you they just have no idea how much you put into doing these columns. No one can be perfectly spot on all the time. But I would never rail at the person posting. You will be so VERY VERY missed!

God Bless You and good luck in all you do.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- dot48 (Sad), 05:55:11 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I'm am so sorry that some crappy people have taken the wonderful gift you have given for years and made it such a painful thing for you.

I so enjoyed reading your columns and I will miss you fiercely.

Cheers and good luck.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Christy (Sad), 06:04:04 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I too have been a lurker of your site. Thank you for the years of joy... I am disappointed that you are leaving. I check all 3 sites weekly to see if you have posted anything new. It is an addiction of mine, that I thought was pretty good, since it doesn't involve anything negative. Maybe one day you may reconsider??? One can only have hope. {{{hug}}}
You have always lifted my spirits...

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Diane, 06:42:51 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven Honey - Thank you for sharing your time (a ton of time) and talent with us. On Saturday mornings, I would wake, turn on the puter and go right to your sight first. I always looked forward to it. It was a 'sane' column as opposed to a lot of 'insanity' out there. I have two soap sites to go to that are classy, witty, and mature (yours and a GH site). I never worried about swear words being cryptically included, or actors/actresses being ripped apart for doing their job. Casting? that has got to be the hardest thing to predict or rely on. Times have changed, soap lovers. Actors are not driven by the love for the show or the genre. Money talks and it usually opens its mouth at the last possible minute.
I stand an applaud you for all you have done for people you do not know in a classy, in a witty, and in a very mature way! Blessings to you! And if you ever decide to come back to us, we will welcome you with open arms! Be Well! Diane

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- ABCsoaplover (very sad), 07:00:55 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I took a chance that there'd be a new column and this is what I found. Man, am I bummed! But I totally understand and wish you all the best and a big thank you for all your hard work. I will miss you and your scoops for sure. Shame on those people who found the need to rag on you and spoil it for everybody! Bunch of losers if you ask me!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- daisyclover, 07:12:36 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Thank you so much for all you've done over the years! I'm sorry for all the unwarranted negativity directed your way, and the fact that you don't recieve credit when you should (I've noticed that many times :( ) I hope the few creeps out there haven't turned you off to the soap community forever. You'll be missed!!!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- leslie (sad), 07:13:28 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven, I just want you to know that I REALLY appreciate all of your dedication, time, and hard work that you have put into your column for so many years. You have written your column so professionally, keeping true to your sources and being more accurate with your information than anyone could ask for. It really angers me to know that people have treated you so badly!! You volunteered so much of your time writing your column - for our fun and enjoyment, just to have some jerks take all of the fun out of it for you - over things that are completely out of your control - I can totally understand where you are coming from. I would like for you to know that your column has been a highlight of my weekend for many, many years, and I really appreciate all of your time, dedication, and hard work!! You will truely be missed!! If you ever change your mind, you will be welcomed back with open arms!!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- SLG, 07:36:11 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Best of Luck Raven and God Bless You.
Thanks for the hard work and all the scoops!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Rosey (Sick At Heart), 08:34:44 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Oh, my goodness. I don't know what is behind your decision to discontinue your column - I can only imagine - but it, indeed, sounds like a very painful decision, one that saddens and disheartens me.

Your explanation and heartfelt words further reinforces the fact that this is not a hopeful time for soap operas, or those who truly support and advance them, like you, Raven!

If this is a irreversible decision, I want to thank you, Raven, from my heart, for all that you have done to keep the soap opera genre alive, the way you reached out to fans, and for the many hours and effort that you invested in this endeavor.

You are a legend and while I hope you might be back, someday, I send my love to you. Rosey

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- kimberly (sad), 09:07:55 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven,

I've followed you for years at SOC. You, and you alone made the whole thing fun. I couldn't wait until the weekend for the latest dirt dished by you, the Master. I understand why you are leaving, and wish you well.

Even SOC has changed from a once vibrant, thoughtful community, to a childish, hate spewing group of malcontents. Thread after thread of hatred, just for the sake of hatred has turned off all the stalwarts from reading and posting. Even the once respected Y&R thread has become that way. Maybe it is a sign of the times...

Thank you for letting us know of your retirement. You deserve so much better.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- marceline (Sad but not surprised.), 09:43:09 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Unfortunately the soap world is contracting and that's making things...extreme. Its gotten crazy all over: on camera, behind the scenes, and even "out here" in the fanverse. I've seen a tiny bit of what you've had to deal with and honestly I'm surprised you didn't quit sooner. Or at least implode in a Cristian Bale-style rant.

I know a lot of people are going to say "Come back!" and "Don't go!" but I know what it's like when something you love goes bad so I ask you this: did you felt a sense of peace after you posted this message? If so, then focus on the future and don't look back. You've earned it.

I wish I could send you this message privately because I suspect what I said will piss off some of your other posters but so be it. It won't be the first time.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- bags (bummed out), 10:55:29 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Thanks for all you've done i'm very sorry to see you go but will be watching for a soapy return.. are you sure you weren't misbandaged in a fire or in a coma in a rehabilitating hospital on st. blaze's or maybe you got lost in the attic. all kiddin' aside your posts were always something i've looked forward to. you'll be missed. best of luck in all you do... maybe we'll get lucky and you'll reappear with a new name and face. God bless you.

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[> Raven, you may be gone -- Rox (Extremely Sad), 10:59:21 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven, you may be gone but you will not be forgotten. Most of your readers truly appreciated your dedication to write a truly wonderful column. It's really a shame that there were crude, shameless dolts in cyberspace who wanted to harrass you. You only printe information you received, and if things didn't pan out it wasn't your fault, but those who are in charge of the soaps. I have less and less enjoyment at SOC because of the ridiculous posters.

All I want to say is that you are a very lovely person and will be greatly missed. Best of everything to you now and in your future endeavors.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- kudagirl (sad, but thankful), 11:11:35 05/17/09 Sun [1]

One of the things that I have always looked forward to and enjoyed was your spoilers. I never really believe any rumors till I saw that you confirmed them. I trusted you and admired you for all the hard work you did. I will miss reading your column, but understand all things end some time or other. Wishing you many wonderful things for the future.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Speckles, 11:17:54 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven,

Thank you so much for all you've given all of us.
It's been an incredible ride and you've be on heck of a driver on this highway we call Daytime.

It won't be the same without you. You're the best!!

I wish you much happiness and even more success in whatever your future holds.

Take care.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Dakota (sad), 11:43:45 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I'm going to miss you so much! I remember reading your spoilers before I even joined SOC! You're a wonderful person and I will miss you. I hope one day you decide to come back, and I hope you keep in touch with everyone at SOC.

Love ya,
Dakota

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Tosca, 11:55:22 05/17/09 Sun [1]



What I most appreciated was your honesty and dignity. Nary a cheap shot in any of your hundreds of columns, just the information as you knew it.

Good luck Ms. Ravenbeauty and thank-you so much for all our hard work!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- jazzlady (A sad farewell1), 11:56:22 05/17/09 Sun [1]


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[> Thank you -- soapwatcherabc, 12:03:04 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven, Thank You so much for all the enjoyment you gave me on all those late Fridays nights. It always felt like I was welcomed into your home with a nice warm drink and a comfy chair by a oh so gracious host. you will be missed very much. I hope the future brings you health and happiness..Please remember there is some ignorance even the biggest hearts can not cannot penetrate..

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Jo Ann Zinaman (very depressed), 12:03:52 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Hey RavenBeauty. I can Understand that You don't want to hear that You Led Your Fanbase on. However, I Really don't want you to Leave and I don't think that You Should Leave Unless You have A Health Problem. Another thing would be if Somebody in your Family was Sick like A Child or Your Husband or Your Father or Somebody like that. If You Worked for A Certain Group Doing This and You Got Fired, then you have NO Control over that. I just really think that you shouldn't let these People run you off. I had thought that that Man that you Liked had been Sick and I thought he had Died. Please Reconsider. Jody

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Sondi, 12:41:30 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven~ I am so sad to see you go, but I understand that you must move on. You are a wonderful person and I wish you all the happiness in this world. I am sorry a few angry and mean hearted people have hurt! You must do what is right for you You will be sorely missed.

Thank you again for all that you did!

Enjoy yourself with whatever you do!

Sondi

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- stampurr, 12:50:22 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Oh Raven my dear long time friend. I caught a hint of this just today and I must say I'm really sad. You were one of the people oh so long ago back on the amcpages.com (now SOC) that inspired me to come out of lurkdom. I so enjoyed our exciting and FUN discussions about one of our favorite soaps together. I must concur with TV Gord's beautiful post. I had a feeling this day would likely come but I hoped I was wrong. I love your column and I love you my dear. I want what is right and best for you and only you know what that is. I've been considering stepping back myself for a long time and perhaps this is the impetus that will make me do it. It really is nasty out there and the fun times are few and far between.

Be well Raven. I hope to see you around again at some point. :)

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[> VENTING COMING TO A CLOSE!!!!! -- Ms. B., 12:56:13 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I would first like to thank you for the scoops and the updates. They were greatly appreciated. The opportunity to see truly fantastic folks on your site that are truly passionate about the Soaps is a treat. I would also like to add that you took part in an industry that is dog eat dog. Although we appreciate your scoops and spoilers, please recognize that what you are a part of is a thankless job. I hope you did not expect the insiders to appreciate the job that you were doing and give you any credit. This is a paycheck to these people. They do not understand that sites like this is what keep us interested in the land of make believe. The task is now to sell us on the concept of Reality Make Believe TV. How can you script Reality? The times have evolved but these drones are challenged with keeping people interested and cannot even accomplish that. They have abnormally large narcissistic egos. The writers along with the producers continue with useless focus that consistently keep the ratings low. I can only imagine the depths of your disappointment with this industry but I can say just one thing. Don't give these sleeze balls the satisfaction. From your letter, this sounds very upclose and personal and angry but forgive me if I say that it sounds like a part of you wishes to move on any way. Ten years doing this column could not have been very easy but we tend to do what we have to. Sometimes it is easier to just stop trying to fit in that little black dress and enjoy the cheese cake and just buy the bigger size. Acceptance of what the situation truly is defines our individuality. My venting these last couple of years allowed me to voice my discontent with ABC's poor direction . Reading your spoilers and scoops kept it interesting. I just hope that your decision to not continue with this column is indeed yours. You will be missed and INDUSTRY FOLKS, YOU DID NOT WIN!!! LOW RATINGS ARE ULTIMATE CANCELLATION WILL BE YOUR DEFINING POINT! PUSHING AROUND A COLUMNIST WHO KEPT IT INTERESTING REINFORCES THE BULLY MENTALITY!!!! GOOD LUCK RAVEN ON YOUR NEW FRONTIER...... MS. B....

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[> OMG!!!! All I can say is that many many many people will miss you!!!!!! You better still come by and check in with your homegirls at LAwoman's board!!!! -- mkross loves ya Ravey! ya better check in from time to time!, 13:06:40 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I still do even though I haven't watched ABC soaps for a while now, as in several years. I've become a Y & R convert. But I still chats about other stuff and other things on tv.

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[> Disappointed with SOC and saddened by your resignation. -- Ann, 13:20:43 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I was very saddened to read this today, but even more saddened by what I think I am seeing at Soapcentral. I hope I'm wrong or just seeing things. It seems like every time someone starts an appreciation thread over there for all the years of hard work you've given us, it disappears. You've donated to that site for years. You've done this column for us for years. Aren't we allowed to even thank you over there? You are a class act Ravenbeauty. You are telling us to continue to support that site and have nothing but kind words for them, but it doesn't seem like the feeling is mutual now that you have resigned. How disappointing. :(

I will miss you more than you know! My daughter and I read your column with our breakfast every Saturday. I had a feeling this day would come. Can't say I blame you even though things will never really be he same with you gone. Take care of you and know that you are loved and will be missed. Truly missed.

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[> [> Re: Disappointed with SOC and saddened by your resignation. -- Cosign!, 14:13:39 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I left a pretty intense message regarding this very thing earlier, but I guess Raven felt it was too strong or something so it never went out. I'll try and tone it down so hopefully it will make it out here.

With all the years that Raven has given that site, the least they can do is allow us to thank her over there! They should be the ones to start a thread themselves and show they have a little class. Not interested in even going there anymore now. Sorry but its how I feel.

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[> [> [> Re: Disappointed with SOC and saddened by your resignation. -- pastal, 15:49:44 05/17/09 Sun [1]

As soon as I found out and read Raven's post here, I went to SOC and couldn't believe there was nothing there.

Raven, you will be so missed. I couldn't wait to get to the computer on Saturday mornings to see if you had posted. On the Saturday's that you did, it made my day.

But like Gord said, when it's no longer fun, and it is more of a chore than pleasure, then hang up your hat and walk away proud.

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[> [> [> Re: Disappointed with SOC and saddened by your resignation. -- flex22v, 01:23:22 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I know they always delete off topic or random posts but a thank you would have been just like a birthday thread -- why not have one priortized at the top of each abc board... or why not have the mods for the ABC boards type up a thank you along with this post and lock it so no one can comment if they want to avoid drama... at least it would still be acknowledging and respecting someone who honestly was the reason many even visited the site regularly in the first place.

and what's up with that Hirsch person's statement being stickied and prioritized as the top post on the AMC board? What exactly is that insinuating? Was that supposed to be a warning about posting spoilers? Was that insinuating that someone at SOC is being accused and Dan was being threatened as the owner of the site? Why post that on the SOC board unless one of us is being accused of being some thieving insider?

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[> [> [> [> That has nothing to do with it. -- KC, 02:27:02 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Raven hasn't posted Lynda Hirsch scoops in ages. Not only that, but Raven was the one who scooped the whole Adam/Stuart thing weeks ago before LH's recaps were even written or released! Totally different situations. She was talking about someone who is obviously stealing these from her place of employment or in the same building in order to gain access to them before Lynda even posts them! That's not Raven! She was talking about that person posting her recaps a week early on all these message boards (not Raven).

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[> [> [> [> LH posted that at SOC because another poster (not Raven) had gotten a hold of her recaps a week early and posted them on the board and that thread was removed. Guess you missed that. -- Nope, 02:31:26 05/18/09 Mon [1]


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[> [> [> [> [> Re: LH posted that at SOC because another poster (not Raven) had gotten a hold of her recaps a week early and posted them on the board and that thread was removed. Guess you missed that. -- flex22v, 10:52:51 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Oh no KC, I think my post must have come across completely wrong if you think that is what I was getting at. I know Raven has her own sources. I'm mostly on the GH board and honestly never even heard of LH until I saw the sticky on the AMC board when I was checking to find any new Raven posts.

What I was meaning to say is that the stickied post sounds accusatory against someone at SOC and since most of us see Raven as THE scoop source for SOC, the stickied post - and then the subsequent apparent attempt to not allow us to send Raven off in style send out (to me) a bad impression. I hope that is clearer.

I am in no way trying to say anything about Raven - I wouldn't go to someone's site and slam them :) I was only trying to express that what is currently there and what is happening now could be completely misconstrued by some to seem that the statement is accusing her which I find unfair and wrong. Anyway -- things get lost in translation online so I apologize if my comment caused anyone to take offense.

Whenever I read anything online I often think of one of my favorite lyrics...
"And I feel like I'm naked in front of the crowd
Cause these words are my diary, screaming out loud
And I know that you'll use them, however you want to..."

I guess I need to work harder to think of that lyric when I type too since I tend to come across so very different than I intended :)

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[> [> Re: Disappointed with SOC and saddened by your resignation. -- marceline, 06:35:58 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I agree that SoapCentral's response to this situation has been seriously lacking. I'd actually call it unprofessional.

Raven has been a major driver of traffic to that site for years. Many people came to their boards every weekend only for Raven's scoops. As a webmaster part of me wonders if they're trying to keep up the illusion that Raven is still there so that traffic doesn't drop off too drastically.

They owe her better.

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[> [> Re: Disappointed with SOC and saddened by your resignation. -- California Soap-Watcher, 08:40:56 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I have come to this site to post my good-byes to Raven, because any posts related to her decision to quit are not being allowed on the SOC site. I have notices two posts begin about the subject that were almost immediately deleted. When asked, I was told that it was not related to any AMC topic and that it would only lead to speculation and unfounded gossip, so they are not allowing it. I await the day that all the negativity ends and fans are allowed to post fun topics without being shouted down by those that don't like what they have to say. Good-bye, Raven. You will be missed. Peace out.

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[> [> Re: Disappointed with SOC and saddened by your resignation. -- bobbymartin46, 07:52:20 05/22/09 Fri [1]

I tried to alert the SOC AMC message board readers on Monday of your decision to terminate your spoiler/casting speculation column at VoyForums, but it was removed by the Message Board Moderator(Message Board Censor???) within 10 minutes of its posting. Apparently your departure is off-topic to AMC discussion. For all your years of contrubutions to SOC, I would have believed they would have allowed you a proper farewell. Kind of reminds me of how AMC treated Julia Barr when she left. Just pretended she never existed. On a more positive note. Thank-you for all your years contributing to SOC. I looked forward to your column every week. You will be sorely missed.

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[> [> Re: Disappointed with SOC and saddened by your resignation. -- Patsy Sweeney (Sad), 13:34:25 06/08/09 Mon [1]

The subject of my thread, which I posted on SOC read "Am I blind?" I wrote "I can't find my friend! Someone please tell me where is Raven? Thanks to anyone who will answer and let me know."
It was posted for a few minutes but you couldn't open it to read. I then searched the SOC for her name, but she did not come up. A sick feeling came over me and I was so sad, but I found you Raven, as all your fans will!
Raven you are an amazing positive person! Really, you are just a lovely soul! You were a real life heroin for the soaps. You always were so warm and welcoming to "pull up a chair" and enjoy your cleverness and dish. You are a clear champion of respect and fairness! SOC's major loss.
I only went to SOC to eagerly read what my friend Raven had to say. A proper sendoff from SOC, acknowledging Raven Beauty for her talents and tireless contributions is simply essential. Someone with any business sense at SOC should remedy the ungrateful oversight, immediately; or it will surely play out dreadfully for the website.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, dear Raven! Good luck!Keep us posted cause we care! Patsy

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- flex22v, 14:09:34 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Goodbye says it all, doesn't it?

It was a great ride.

Thanks :)

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Soaphead (sad), 14:50:23 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I am so sorry to hear this . I don't understand people I guess. You told me onces that my snoopy avitar brought a smile to your face ,its one of the reasons (aside from loving Snoopy lol) that I have kept it.
Me and Snoopy are here for you :) I will miss your scoops but you even more.
Peace and love to you.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- OldTimer (pensive), 15:22:41 05/17/09 Sun [1]

When something fun isn't fun anymore, it's time to do something else. Godspeed.

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Gregory Sumner, 16:24:05 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I thought you did a great job lasting as long as you did, and would have been impressed if you were only a 1/4 as accurate as you turned out to be. You will be missed, thanks for your hard work :)

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Sue (sad), 15:59:14 05/17/09 Sun [1]

RavenB:

Will miss your brain teasers....does this mean I will have to go back to Sudoku to keep my mind active!!?!!!?

I think that your departure from the soap world and especially your reasons are indicative of the problems at hand...gone or going is the class; up and coming is the raunchiness. Even fans' opinions (not just your spoilers) are bashed to the nth degree, and it doesn't end with just one's opinions being bashed; if we have not sided with someone elses point of view on a character or plot, then we are personally harassed in a battle of politics. Everything seems to lead to politics! Politics is NOT why I watch soaps--I want to get AWAY from the everyday stress, and now an opinion on the soaps seems to pull us right into the fray.

The writers are certainly leading our favorite source of entertainment into oblivion---but so are some of the so-called fans, who cannot keep from making soaps and fiction more serious than it actually should be. Opinion sharing should be a fun time, not a chance to rip on someone. I am surprised at the number of angry people out there who are willing under anonymity to voice such radical and hateful statements. I guess it just shows what they are really like--scary, huh?

Best to you and yours, Ravenbeauty....Sue

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Whyt, 18:07:52 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Thanks for all you've done for us. I will greatly miss you.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- LaCrane, 18:54:32 05/17/09 Sun [1]

You are a true talent and we were lucky to have you. It's a shame you had to endure what you did at the pathetic hands of others. Best of luck to you and I hope you'll at least comment periodically on SOC since I really like your comments, especially on American Idol. :D

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Skylar (Gutted), 21:32:53 05/17/09 Sun [1]

I've been lurking here, reading your comments for a few years now. I just wanted to finally give you the thanks you deserve, and apologize for not doing it sooner. Your columns have provided so much joy in my life, and I really hope that whatever you do in the future, you are happy.

God bless you, ma'am.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Mrs.Mom (Enjoy life!!), 21:59:17 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Good luck in your future endeavors but now take the time to enjoy your life.
Spend time with your children and grandchildren and don't look back!!

Thank so much for all your years of service to us!!

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[> Re: Thanks for all your hard work -- Soaps Gal, 22:00:34 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Thank you for your years of dedication, Raven. I will truly miss you and the spoilers you've provided. I truly understand where you're at right now. While it can be gratifying in many ways, it wears you down after a while. Thanks for hanging in there for as long as you have. Thanks for all your support over the years ... you are a great friend.

All the best,
Soaps Gal
The Llanview Banner
http://home.comcast.net/~oltlnews/

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[> Confession time. -- Very anonymous, 22:29:39 05/17/09 Sun [1]

Raven my dear,

I did a double take when I saw this post from you. I am a fellow columnist and to tell you where I am from would only stir a hornets nest. Forgive me for doing this the cowards way. I took pot shots at you over the years because I think you scared me a little. I've been doing this longer than you and all of a sudden you were this overnight sensation. I realize now in retrospect that your many "I told you so's" were probably because you really never did get credit for much of anything. It was probably very frustrating. You were on the mark many times, but I don't think that's what made you so popular. You have a style and a flair that made you a stand out. You have a real gift that should not be thrown away. I'm sorry for the things I have said. I feel a little foolish now to be honest. The more popular you grew, the more I despised you. It was wrong. I was wrong. I'm sorry and I mean that.

Be well and thrive at no matter what you choose to do. I really am sorry. :(

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[> oh ravey!!!!! i am so sorry (selfishly) to hear this but am thrilled for you taking the courage to do what is best for YOU! -- ozzie, 22:30:54 05/17/09 Sun [1]

i have enjoyed your spoilers and hard work since the inception of your column. i am very disappointed that people had to make it so it wasn't enjoyable for you any longer and you are showing who you truly are by backing away. a classy lady through and through and taking the high road to take care of yourself!!! that takes a tremendous amount of courage and i agree with all of gordie's comments! take care of YOURSELF and i thank you from the very bottom of my heart for all of your hard work for us. as you can see from the amount of comments on here, you are so very loved! stop by on moonie's board sometime, we would welcome you any time!!! :) love ya hon!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Allison (Disappointed but I understand), 00:07:11 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Raven, so sorry to see you go. I can't believe we are losing you and Adam Chandler the same week! :( Add me to the list of those who hope to see you again one day in some form or fashion. You post, and I will be there! You definitely made weekend net surfing very enjoyable and I loved all the scoops and behind the scenes info. It definitely enhanced my viewing of AMC. I think those of us who appreciate you and your writing far outnumber the few nasties out there. If we didn't express ourselves as often or as loudly as they did, then shame on us. Thanks for all your hard work! Take care of yourself and good luck. Hope you are on to bigger and better things!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Dakini (Broken-hearted), 00:31:19 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Dear RavenBeauty,
I found this site before I found SOC, but I went there because there was more dialogue about OLTL. I quit there during the nasty bashing (by both sides) during the Todd-Marty story of last fall. You were the only person I read for spoilers/gossip (although gossip usually is snarky, yours was never so)and I trusted you implicitly. I will miss your column.
As others have stated, I checked SOC's site to see any commentary about this. Everything has been shut down and removed. So sad, but I hope it's because Dan is planning a spectacular tribute to you.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- #1TessFan, 00:36:53 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Raven,

I've only been on the SOC message boards since last year, but I had really grown to like you. Yes, we had our disagreements, but we always worked through them respectively. I will miss you greatly, along with many others. A part of the SOC boards will be missing, as long as you are gone. God bless you.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Luis, 01:08:15 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I just want to say I will miss reading your spoilers I really enjoyed reading them.I wish you the best.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- missannsapphire (Grateful), 01:09:24 05/18/09 Mon [1]

This was news I certainly never expected! I want to thank you for all your hard work over the years. For purely selfish reasons, you will be missed. Back in the day, the way I started my weekend was to go to SOC and read your column. All the frustrations of my work week would disappear and I would immerse myself in your scoops and gossip. Your lively and intelligently written comments would make me smile and in this sometime cruel world that is a wonderful thing. There is no doubt in my mind that you were the most accurate and compassionate soap columnist to be found and your love and respect for the genre always came thru. Haters will always be around but do not give them power. The majority of us have always loved and appreciated you and will continue to do so. With much love and respect I say goodbye and good luck to the BEST DAMN SOAP DIVA EVAH!!!!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Judy, 01:17:46 05/18/09 Mon [1]

So sorry to see you go! I have enjoyed reading your column and will miss you. People can be so mean!! Good luck in whatever else comes your way!

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- iggygirl, 08:18:19 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I find this so sad. Raven, I will miss you and the insight and delight you have given this overworked person.

Your column was my guilty pleasure.

please take care of yourself.

See you in Sephora!

iggy

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- peaches98 (Sad), 01:24:57 05/18/09 Mon [1]

RavenBeauty,
I sure am going to miss Saturday morning coffee with you! I have enjoyed your spoilers for 2 yrs. I loved your excitement for the stories, actors and what you do. I'm grateful for the time you took, bringing all of the juicy stories and tidbits my way. I wish you joy and happiness with whatever you choose to do now. I will welcome you back when and if you are ready to return! In the meantime, I'll be drinking my Saturday coffee and wishing you well.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Colleen (I am really saddened), 01:33:26 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I am so sorry to read this, Raven. It is always the few vagrants and low life's that ruin it for all. I understand your reasoning, and I hope that one day you change your mind and come back to those of us who appreciate and respect you. The soap world will not be the same without you. In fact, it is a bit darker now with you gone. :( Hugs Raven, and I wish you happiness.

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[> Re: Raven -- -- Puggle, 02:16:24 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I'm so disappointed that you won't be posting anymore. Your column was the highlight of the board. I don't know anything about the nasty people who have given you a hard time, but I am sorry it got to be such a problem. Wish you would stay. And thanks for all you've done.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Phoebe, 03:00:45 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Raven, I am so sorry that a few jerks have to ruin what was one of the best things to read on the internet.
I wish you well, and if you decide to come back, even in a limited form, we will welcome you with open arms.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Candace (very sad), 03:04:22 05/18/09 Mon [1]

All I can say is that you have made me hang on to soaps longer than I probably should have. I will miss your posts so very much. I can't believe people are so malicious and I hope that you have nothing but success. I know that I will keep checking back here for a while, if only to lessen the pain. : (
Thanks so much!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- catshadowsi8, 05:47:23 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I am greatly saddened by the news you are no longer doing a column but I understand why you have decided to make a clean break. Soaps and the message boards supporting them have changed as the ratings plummeted. Instead of being entertained, fans are now angry and frustrated. I think this shows in the kind of treatment you have received over the last few years that, IMHO, bordered on fanaticism. The way they nit picked your columns apart looking for anything to use against you made me ill. I will always be grateful for the time and effort you put into your columns and the happiness you brought to an industry on the rocks. May you find retirement rewarding. You will be missed.

With my upmost respect
catshadowsi8

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Rudi, 06:53:39 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Ravey,

I'll miss you and your board so much! I remember back in the old days ;-) when I was irishheart and there were so many of us "friends" on SOC. Three or four months ago I stopped watching AMC, but I always came by to read your scoops and keep up with the news, even if I couldn't stand to watch any more. You will be missed. I can understand why, your reasons make perfect sense, but I will miss you just the same. Gord, as usual, said all the right things, and I can only echo his words. Thank you for so many years of devotion to the soaps and to your readers. We're going to be lost without you!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Liz, 08:30:44 05/18/09 Mon [1]

It is so sad to read this today. I must say your forum is something in my life that I look forward too all the time. I am a busy working Mom with twins and a high maintenance husband lol...and you are my escape.
I just want you to know how much fun I have when reading your column.
I also recognize that it has become harder and harder for you to handle with all the negativity. Anyone reading for a long time as I have could see the change in your tone and could see that doing this was just for us. And with that said, I do understand why you must leave us now. And as much as I and the rest of your fans will miss you, you should do what makes you happiest.
Just take with you all the positive you've done for so many of us, and the joy you've brought us. Your column has been the most on point, and the best part is that you did it from the heart and never even asked for a penny.
Raven, please take care and I hope your next venture is most rewarding.
You will be missed.
Liz

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Melinda Lee (So sad to see you go Raven), 08:31:37 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I was so sad and sorry to read you are Leaving Raven. I hope you will Just take a Break and come Back. More people LOve you then you know. I have read you the Last couple of years and you are the only one I trust to Listen to on what going on with OLTL. You are the Best please take care and come Back or maybe a different site or something.
Take care my friend.

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[> Thanks RB for years of fun reading and I'll miss you dearly... -- JennyJenkins: you defended me when I was flamed at SOC ;-), 12:52:28 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I continued to read your columns, (even though I stopped watching AMC and OLTL a few years ago), because you have so much talent and kept the writing interesting. I hope you give some thought to writing a book...

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Moviegal, 14:42:55 05/18/09 Mon [1]

I was so sorry to see your post, but I could tell from some of our board conversations that this very sad day was coming. I can't say that I blame you...I was afraid it would come to this. Raven, you have always been a class act. Your spoilers are what brought me to SOC, and have a lot to do with what kept me there. I've been waiting for Dan to give some explanation for your leaving, but none has been forthcoming. Your passion for the genre, and your graciousness, has been unsurpassed in the soap gossip industry. I can't express how much that I will miss you. I want you to know that you are greatly loved, and that you have so many people that love you and want the best for you. You've always been reliable, and such a strong advocate for the soaps themselves, that the stars will be a little dimmer after you've left. Godspeed my friend - I wish you only the best in your life - because you truly deserve it.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- soapwatcherabc (Sad), 19:05:59 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Raven,
I just wanted you to know you have touched me in other ways besides just your soap scooping. I posted mostly on OLTL board over the years and back when Nathaniel Marston was going through his personal stuff there was a thread about him. The Venom coming from people was beyond horrible. You posted in that thread to try to reach the ones who were judging him so terrible without all the facts present. I could see the wind being taking out of your sails by the cruelty being thrown at a REAL person, not some fake character. I saw your heart that day. In the midst of the heartless you stood out as one of a dying breed. I saw it again with the American Idol stuff with Adam Lambert. You have always been a defender of the Good and misunderstood and get hurt for it. I'm sorry that you went through that stuff. For that I will miss you more then you soapy suds. Whenever there comes a time when I can carry the torch for some wrongs, I will do it with you in mind. Thank you for your Bravery Raven. It was not unnoticed.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Quiet_Please, 23:02:12 05/18/09 Mon [1]

Wow, I truly feel like crying.......
For so long I would check on Mondays to see if you had posted anything new and when you did it was like I just got a new outfit!!!!! I am so sorry to hear you have been pushed to your limits but like so many others, I understand completely. It is almost like being a mom 24/7 and never being appreciated for 90% of the great stuff you do but rather seen for the other 10% "ME" stuff you do when you need a break!!

You will be dearly missed and I wish you all the best for a bright future.............thank you for all the smiles you brought to my face over the years!!!!!

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[> A heartfelt goodbye to YOU, Ravey! -- Vicki, 01:19:39 05/19/09 Tue [1]

We'll miss you on both the "Oasis" board and LAwoman's board and hope you'll pop in occasionally to tell us what you've been up to. I wish you much success and love and happiness!

Love,
Vicki
Houston, Texas

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[> Oh wow...you'll soooo be missed. You know I love ya' Ravey Baby! Thanks for all the spoiling you've done over the years. It was appreciated & will leave quite a void behind! -- Moonie, 01:21:32 05/19/09 Tue [1]


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[> Alert-Please Read!! -- Ravenbeauty, 03:30:29 05/19/09 Tue [1]

I am truly overwhelmed. I really hadn't expected anything quite like this and I'm speechless actually (a first for me). You are an amazing group of people who have made me smile at a time that I wasn't feeling much like smiling if you know what I mean. This was such a tough decision for me. Thank you so very much for your support and understanding. Your many messages have left me a bit misty eyed here. I have been blessed to have had such lovely readers and such wonderful friends. Thank you.

The other reason that I stopped by is that I wanted clarify something if I may. Its been brought to my attention that there is a thread (an announcement) at SOC that has been stickied at the top of the AMC board from daytime columnist Lynda Hirsch. The announcement was apparently triggered due to a poster who had copied and pasted Lynda's recaps a week early and posted them at SOC on the message boards (the thread has since been removed). Lynda does not write spoilers. She does recaps that she gets early from the network, but somehow somebody has been gaining access to them a week early and releasing them on several message boards (and this is for all of the shows she covers). She hinted that she pretty much knew who this person was in her announcement and with the timing of my resignation, some connected the dots to thinking it was me that she was speaking of (that blew me away a bit).

I have gone back and forth with Lynda personally and in no way shape or form was she referring to me. I am not the culprit and was shocked that anyone would draw this conclusion merely because of the timing of her announcement (I had already turned in my resignation at SOC almost a week prior to her announcement there and my resignation here)! They have absolutely nothing to do with one another! Anyone who reads my column weekly knows that it's been ages since I have posted any of Lynda's spoilers (which is evidenced by looking through my many posts which all have date and timestamps). Also, the scoop that involves Adam and Stuart came from me weeks prior to her even writing the leaked recap in question, due to a script I relayed that let the cat out of the bag as it were. I was careful not to use names and merely put out a summary of the audition script, however it was rather obvious what was going to happen on AMC. I think Lynda was just as surprised as I was that some of you had jumped to this conclusion and she wanted to make it clear that in no way was she referring to me (obviously this has to be someone who works in the same building or something for them to gain access to work that she herself hasn't even released yet)! Hope this clears that little mystery up for you. Lynda is a lovely person and I can completely understand why she would be so upset over this. Finding your work online before you yourself have even released it is a bit unsettling!

A huge thank you to Lynda for getting back to me on this and once again, God Bless you guys for your really beautiful notes and messages. I was astounded and deeply touched by them.

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[> [> Re: Alert-Please Read!! -- Sally, 03:41:26 05/19/09 Tue [1]

Raven: I have been reading your updates for so long I couldn't even dream of you being the "culprit". I believe you have way too much integrity for that. I am just one of your many grateful fans for what you have done over the years and I wish you the best of luck in the future. You will be sorely missed.

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[> [> I saw that and thought it was the dumbest thing I had seen in a while. -- Ann, 03:57:18 05/19/09 Tue [1]

I am very glad you spoke to this because I wanted to say something at SOC, but they keep deleting messages in there rather than explaining to us that it was not you LH was referring to! I knew it couldn't be you because it made no sense. Her spoilers are not even in your latest column which talks about the Adam and Stuart murder fiasco and you already told us all that weeks ago! I didn't get how anyone would think that was you because it made no sense. You already had the scoop and don't even post her spoilers anyway! The problem is that people don't take the time to read what is written. You already had the scoop and she was talking about someone posting all of her recaps on various message boards. How dumb! Thanks for clearing it up for the nitwits out there (sorry but that was just plain dumb).

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[> [> Re: Alert-Please Read!! -- Parsley, 10:53:50 05/24/09 Sun [1]

Pfft! Anyone who is really familiar with your work would have known the accusation was all poppycock before they reached the period at the end of the first sentence!

And I'd met Lynda when I lived in Cleveland and knowing her made it sound doubly ridiculous!

But... those audition script summaries you did were wonderful. Do you (or anyone) know of any alternative sources?

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[> Oh Ravey I'm so sorry it has come to this! Sending hugs! -- Tear, 06:28:00 05/19/09 Tue [1]

I have appreciated all of your wonderful spoilers and any thing you shared with us! I'm very saddened that it has come to you giving up your wonderful column but I totally understand why!

I just can't understand why any one would feel threatened enough to be so mean spirited! I'm not going to label a person who would do such a horrible thing, I feel that gives them power they shouldn't have.

It must be that you can say any thing and feel powerful, how sad that in order for this kind of a person, they must hurt someone one innocent. Then again I have seen it time and again at different websites all over the web. Some of those websites I no longer go to because someone always feels the need to hurt someone to feel better about themselves. The general mean spitefulness amazes me.

Just know that you are loved and apprecited more than you know!

Peace out!

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[> OMG Im gonna cry! -- Kelly, 08:43:07 05/19/09 Tue [1]

Oh Raven, I hate that the pleasure of writing this column has been taken from you. And I hate that we will no longer have the pleasure of reading it. It sucks.

I remember when I first started reading you on the Voy AMC board and how close we all were there. I so loved those times. No matter where I went I always took your column and posted links to it. You handled it with such reliability. You also handled your readers with respect and love.

I hope some day you will be able to look back at this as a mostly positive experience and know that you have made many friends for life. You are very appreciated for all your efforts and friendship thru the years. Youre the best and I wont forget you! Love ya Ravey!

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[> Re: I will miss you RB -- Kendallfan, 07:59:52 05/20/09 Wed [1]

You were at SOC way back in 2001 when I joined, and for all these years I've thoroughly enjoyed your column. I appreciate everything you did for us, and I am truly sad to see you leave, but at some point, if something doesn't work for you, you gotta look out for yourself and do what's right for you, and I know that's what you are doing.

Thank you Ravenbeauty. Please take care.
Kendallfan

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Riki (sad), 06:09:52 05/22/09 Fri [1]

I just wanted to express my gratitude for you posting spoilers for as long as you did. You are the best and the world of soaps is now a little more dark without you. Actually make that quite dark. :(

I am wishing you the best!!

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Chris, 03:56:40 05/23/09 Sat [1]

So sorry to see you go. You will be missed.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- newattitude, 07:51:10 05/23/09 Sat [1]

Oh no, this is so very sad to read. I'm sorry you felt forced into this. I want to thank you for all that you have done for us at SOC raven - you will be missed.

Hugs - newattitude

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[> Here's my Two Cents Worth -- smokey54, 08:26:51 05/23/09 Sat [1]

I am really sad to read this news! I am mostly a lurker at SOC boards and mostly went there to read what you had to say. I've appreciated you for a long time now! I think you've spoken to many of us who were lurkers.

I think you should start your own business--your own website and boards. You deserve to make a profit from your talents and you have a wonderful way of writing. It's obvious from all the followers you have. I often wondered why SOC got you. You deserve to make a career of it all. There would be droves of people following you. I really think you should take advantage of this for yourself.

I realize it sounds like you've suffered a whole lot of pain and aggravation from certain readers, but maybe focus on those of us who love you. There are armies of us! :)

Just some thoughts, but I also understand if the pain is too great, it's best to put it away.

I wish you the BEST of the BEST in life.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Thatguy (sad), 11:03:57 05/23/09 Sat [1]

I wish you well Raven. I am sorry that the bad apples had to spoil it for the whole bunch, but I understand and respect your decision.

You will be missed.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Fan4ever54 (depressed), 12:50:23 05/23/09 Sat [1]

Raven- today is the first I have heard about your saying good-bye. I am so depressed. Your spoilers have always been one of my favorite things to read. I am so sorry that some people have been cruel to you over what you did out of the goodness of your heart. You will be sorely missed by so many. Thank you for all the time you spent bringing us such incredible information over the years.
I wish you well.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Terri, 13:52:20 05/23/09 Sat [1]

I have read your column for years and enjoyed everyone of them. You are going to be missed. There's always got to be someone to ruin it for the rest of us.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Dale, 13:57:38 05/23/09 Sat [1]

I have been reading your columns for a year now and have posted in a few and I feel sadden that some posters have spoiled your fun. I will miss reading your column but I do understand it becomes not fun anymore! Hope to catch you somewhere else! Good luck!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Jorga Rae, 14:51:51 05/23/09 Sat [1]

I am so sorry you've decided to call it quits. I will miss you dearly and I will always be grateful to you for making my Saturday mornings Christmas-like with your wonderful column. Your columns have seen me through some tough soap couple break ups, Jovan and Rendall. I will always remember you for your patience and wit when dealing with the endless questions that I sometimes asked. LOL What a fun good time we had.
Obviously some students of the Cult University made this an unpleasant experience for you in the end....I just want you to know that I appreciate everything you did for us.
Take care. Have a BIG box of Godiva on me.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Rana, 21:25:27 05/23/09 Sat [1]

Raven, you will be missed...I appreciate all the time it took to produce this column...and look forward to a time when you CAN come back...without drama attached... Until then, hugs!!!!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Wanda - abcsoap4ever, 22:22:49 05/23/09 Sat [1]

OMG!!! I and we are truly going to miss you!!! YOu have been sooo great to take your time to do these columns. Wow, am going to miss you soooo much.
As I always say you are a true Princess!!!! Please know that you will be missed!!!! Take care of yourself and have fun, because fun is the best thing to have!!!.
Love to you and yours!!
(((((HHHHHHUUUUUUUGGGGGGSSSSSSSSS))))

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- MA (Not Surprised), 03:42:36 05/24/09 Sun [1]

Raven - As someone who actually got censored and kicked off SOC (and have 25 years of newspaper editor/reporter experience), I can understand your decision to stop writing a free column.

I really think you should start your own site and take your fan base with you. From the expresssions of the people on this site, it is clear you have a strong and loyal following that you should not abandon. It took you more than 8 years of hard work to get it and you should not walk away.

You could actually answer the message boards instead of allowing the blind to lead the blind as they do on these other soaps sites including SOC. I can assure you that an ASK RAVEN feature would be wildly popular.

One bit of advice - Every writer needs a copy editor.

BEST!!!

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[> Hate what people have done -- Nancy, 06:28:17 05/24/09 Sun [1]

Raven-

I feel terrible because I loved reading what you wrote but i do understand.Several years ago i ran soap groups and some people ruin it for others.Some just look to cause trouble and as you wrote-it causes stress not the fun and enjoyment it was supposed to bring.

I will miss you and your writings,rumors and spoilers.
I will miss the sharing and the love of soaps you had.

I want to thank the people that ruined it for you and us.See where your big mouths have gotten us?Maybe that is what you like.I know you wanted to spoiler soap groups they are nothing like they were.

The people that are kind with their time and love of soaps you like to destroy.

I am sooo sorry these idiots ruined it for you,Raven and for all of us who adore you.
God Bless you.Please know this-You were appreciated more than you know.

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[> Farewell and goodbye. -- Blackbyrd, 07:03:03 05/24/09 Sun [1]

I have just now read your message, Ravenbeauty, and needless to say I am both shocked and saddened by this. You will know how saddened I am by the fact that I have never, ever posted here but I am now. If the way one of the writers writes for one of the OLTL storylines is any indication of the kind of people that have caused you to make this decision, than I can truly understand why you have stopped doing this column. My attitude is that the quality of a storyline reflects the quality of the writer and the quality of that writer's character. I can always tell when a particular writer is writing a storyline because it always reeks much like the Gigi/Shane/Rex/Stacy storyline reeks. I think this is a reflection of the character of the person who is writing it. As I said, if you have been having to put up with this sort of character then I do not blame you for leaving. However, I am truly sorry to see you go. I have looked forward to your column and your updates. You have brought such a warmth and personal touch to your column that I have always felt that I was sitting in your living room, your kitchen, or your office with you and "the girls" with a cup of coffee, as I have read it. You will be greatly and sorely missed.

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[> [> Re: Farewell and goodbye. -- mary, 09:24:33 05/24/09 Sun [1]

I think she has left not because of anyone from shows-writers or actors but because of some who read her column.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Kari (Sad), 08:08:01 05/24/09 Sun [1]

Raven,
Thank you so much for all the wonderful columns that you have posted. As was stated by previous posters, you do have a flair for writing and building of suspense. I am deeply saddened that something you are so good at no longer brings you joy. That is truly unfortunate. I am sure that even your detractors will miss the breath of fresh air that was you. Unfortunately it does look as though soap operas are reaching their golden years and perhaps you simply beat them to the punch. I hope that everything else in your life is going well and that there is another way for you to release your creativity and way with words. Maybe a behind the scenes tell all will one day be in your future. Start talking to those sources now. I can just see it on the shelves at Barnes and Noble- The Death of a Genre, and All the Inside Scoops by Raven Beauty. Best Wishes for all of your future and present endeavors. You will absolutely be missed, but Thank You for all the years of hard work and dedication to your fans. And remember, as the bumper sticker says...."Mean People Suck"

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Mia, 12:11:41 05/24/09 Sun [1]

Raven Beauty, I am so sorry to read your last column. I can understand that negative responses can suck the fun and energy out of all the effort and time you put forth. When something means alot to someone, and you worked hard to be accurate, yet maintain the confidentiality of your sources, you finally said, "Enough, I don't need this". And so...I wish you well in your future creative endeavors. Just know that for a while, I will still peek in this site to see if you just couldn't help yourself and decide to gift us with some scoops. Peace and well being Ravenbeauty...thanks for a job well done.

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- barbara (You will be missed), 10:03:55 06/06/09 Sat [1]

I did right SOC and ask why post Linda's problems and not yours and they said because of her legal aspects. You were a delightful columnist and will be truly missed.

I wish you the best in what ever you choose to do. You deserve to be happy

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[> Something to consider. -- Someone older and wiser (maybe)., 15:06:04 05/24/09 Sun [1]

I was very sorry to see this message but I honestly do understand your frustration. You have taken this nonsense much longer than your critics would have if the situations were reversed (most would have gone running long ago with their cowardly tails between their legs). I get it. I really do but consider this. You are probably the most popular online columnist to ever come along and those loud and ugly voices are people who feel extremely threatened by you. They are thrilled that you are throwing in the towel even though your many fans are feeling just the opposite. This is what they wanted and after nearly a decade, they finally wore you down and got their wish.

Look at all the fans you have! Many are reaching out to let you know that they don't want to see you go. There will always be loud and ugly voices out there because there will always be miserable and hateful people on this earth. Please ignore those worthless voices and listen to us instead. We adore you! You have been accurate for so many things you have passed on for so many years. Hell you just recently gave us several that came to pass like Justis Bolding, Kathy Brier, Forbes March, Erika Slezak, Sabine Singh being replaced and countless AMC scoops over the years. You were the one that broke the news that Stuart was being killed! That DC was cutting back! Please consider that maybe you just need a break from it all but please come back. You mean more to all of us than you realize. We love you kiddo.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Art, 22:57:26 05/24/09 Sun [1]

OLTL has long been off my radar because the show is garbage right now. But, I have always followed your column. It was fun to read and the fans needed an insider like you. Many of your scoops have came true over the years and I've always been one of you biggest defenders. I'm so sorry to see you go. You willl be missed. With you gone, it is just not going to be the same. God Bless and best of luck in the future. I really hope we hear from you again down the line. The hell with all the haters and Raven Beauty trolls that lurk the internet. You are Golden Raven.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Kathy (very sad), 04:38:32 05/25/09 Mon [1]

As many have said before me on this thread - Raven, you will be missed. I first discovered your column several years ago and read it faithly every week. As the soap I had loved since a teen started to change into something I didn't recognize, I still read your column faithly. Each Friday (or Saturday), I would look to see what you had posted. I am as saddened to see you go as I am saddened to see AMC become a soap I no longer recognize. Good bye Raven.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Mary (So Sad.....), 06:40:35 05/25/09 Mon [1]

Dear Raven Beauty,

So sorry to hear you will no longer be dishing out the scoops for soap fans around the country. You are so talented. I stumbled across your site several years ago or more, probably, and you had me hooked from my very first read. I couldn't wait for the weekend to log on to your web site and read the latest happenings in Pine Valley and Land View.

You will be sorely missed by all. I'm not beyond hoping that you may take a break now, but someday down the road return to all of us here. It is obvious, isn't it? We love you!!

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[> Been trying to figure out how to say goodbye. -- ZaraB, 11:19:09 05/25/09 Mon [1]

You were one of the posters who pulled me out of lurkdom, but the boards are a very different place from where they were seven years ago, as are the soaps themselves. I believe ABC has fostered the worst in their soaps and in their audience, and now are reaping what they sow. I'm not sure even Y and R has another seven years left, let alone any of the ABC soaps. I've always enjoyed reading your column - how real you were about not just the soaps, but other interests as well (Chocolate, Makeup, etc). Best wishes for your future life!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Crimson Lady (sad), 12:29:02 05/25/09 Mon [1]

Raven, several years ago I happened upon your column and have been hooked ever since. It was because of you that I started "lurking" and eventually started posting. Your column was always the first thing I looked for and I am going to miss you so much. If you ever find a way to bring back the joy for you, we will be waiting. I really hate that a few have ruined it for soooooo many. God bless you.

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Terry K (so sad, but wish you well!), 08:25:10 05/30/09 Sat [1]

Dear Ravey,
I was one of those many readers who never posted, but read your column faithfully. I stumbled upon your wonderful work only about a year ago, and I can't believe I missed out on so many years! You wrote beautifully, sensitively, and informatively...I looked for you the first thing Saturday mornings. I will miss your column, and I hope you feel how many of us out here truly appreciated you, and were in awe of all the work you did for us! I wish you the best that life has to offer, and if you should decide to start writing again, I and all your dedicated fans will be delighted!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Mrs J (No....), 12:49:57 05/25/09 Mon [1]

Raven

Please reconsider. You are the best and have always made my day with your posts... I don't know exactly who or what prompted this decision, but this board will NEVER be the same without you... Thank you for all your hard work. Please keep writing and telling us what you know..

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Julie, 01:11:09 05/26/09 Tue [1]

Add me to the list of interested subscribers should you ever want to turn scooping into an internet community or online magazine/newsletter. Your style is well worth paying for.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Kelly H., 01:55:41 05/26/09 Tue [1]

I have never posted before, but I really feel that you need to know that I (as well as many others) appreciate your dedication to posting such a brilliant column for us to feast on and get our scoops and spoilers. You will be truly missed and thank you so much!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Becca (:(), 08:09:12 05/26/09 Tue [1]

Thank you for all your hard work and dedication.
It is truly awful how horrible people can be.
I hope that you find the peace and quiet that you
need.
You will be missed.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Karen O (VERY SAD), 11:33:04 05/26/09 Tue [1]


Raven, I have been a loyal reader for years! I have been all wrapped up with GL and missed your exit. I came back to find you but there was nothing so I searched your name to find you just so i could make sure you were okay.
I am so very sad to see you are leaving!!!! I really wish you weren't and wish you would reconsider, but understand that you have been completely wore out by all of the BS.
I wish you well and miss you already! I have looked forward to your columns for so many years now that I consider you family! It would still be great to hear from you once in a while! ;0) Be well, and take care of yourself!

Karen

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- AMCFAN, 12:38:15 05/26/09 Tue [1]

I looked forward to reading your column every weekend for so long! Thank you for everything you have done for us soap lovers. I had so much fun reading and would get so excited over blind items, actor news, and spoilers. You will be missed for sure! Blessings!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Marie (is this the sign of the times), 09:32:17 05/27/09 Wed [1]

I found your stories a delight to read and I am shock that individuals expected you to have ESP. I read your thread because I got great information and I knew sometimes that The Powers That Be may change direction and what you had suggested in your thread had a possibility of not happening. So I am truly puzzled by anyone getting angry that something you had written did not happen on one of the soaps. Come on people it's not like this genre is growing in viewership. With the decline in viewers and the cancellation of another soap opera..
We as fans should be sticking together. I wish you well ... with your writing skills you do well wherever you put your pen to paper.
thanks :-)
I will miss you.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Meg, 15:38:37 05/30/09 Sat [1]

I am so sorry to hear that you are leaving. As a mother of two, there have been months that I knew I would not be near a television during soap hours. I knew that you would be there with your scoops and spoilers to get me through! I am so sorry that the fun has been taken out of it for you and I wish I could change that. Instead, allow me to thank you for the years of your wonderful gossip and spoilers. I can not thank you enough. Take care and I hope you find true happiness in whatever you do!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Dolores (Sad), 13:48:35 05/31/09 Sun [1]

I am so sorry that people have made this sad for you. I would like to suggest something maybe you could come out with a raven soap magazine and we would all buy it. I know I would. Think about it.

You will be missed by millions

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Sondi, 13:17:02 06/02/09 Tue [1]

Hi Raven~ in response to the above message. I would subscribe to any soap magazine you put out!!! We will all miss you!

Sondi

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[> [> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Vicki (so sad), 22:06:57 06/02/09 Tue [1]

I would buy that magazine as well!!! I am not a forum person and only lurked on the soapcentral AMC and OLTL forums to read your spoiler threads. I find that I was totally addicted to it and am going to have a hard time deleting the prominent link in my browser. It's too bad that a few vocal bad apples caused the majority such a great loss. Isn't that the way it goes in a lot of life's situations? I'm so sad to lose you, Raven. You will be missed terribly.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Dan (Hugs & Kisses), 07:23:08 06/01/09 Mon [1]

All the best to you my Darling, you will be sorely missed!

I looked foreward to your column each week, with the same enthusiasm I had as a kid, waiting for the new serial at the local movie house. (Yes; I am that old)

I thank you once again for all your efforts on behalf of Soap Fans!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Love264, 15:06:39 06/01/09 Mon [1]

Hi Raven,

I will miss your column, and I am sorry that things turned out so terribly for you. I wish you all the best in your future pursuits.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- UTGirl, 02:45:10 06/03/09 Wed [1]

Even though I read your goodbye on the 19th I had to come back and check in hopes that it was a bad dream. I very rarely posted but wanted to thank you for all the years of posting. It is pretty pathetic that there are those that can't remember it's just a soap opera and all of this is supposed to be fun. So what if one of your spoilers didn't come to fruition - it's not the end of the world! I can't help but think this is truly the beginning of the end for soaps all together. I have been watching since the 70s and soaps have always been a way to escape. The loss of your column is a peek of what is yet to come.
Thank you again for all your dedication and hard work. Just know there are those of us that read your column as it was intended.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- heart426, 11:14:03 06/04/09 Thu [1]

I just wanted to say "THANK YOU" for all the great scoops you have given us. I do believe when one door closes another door opens and my wish for you is for all your dreams to come true.

Thanks again.
Heart426

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Scribe, 08:38:33 06/06/09 Sat [1]

Thank you for all of your work in a thankless job. I once wrote for a "rival" scooper's old web site (years and years ago as a columnist) and I know what it entails although I never came close to the magnatude of information you put forth. You knowledge, hard work and dedication was truly appreciated. Best wishes for a wonderful future no matter what it may bring!
Sincerely,
Karen McHugh

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Jennifer (disappointed), 22:34:04 06/06/09 Sat [1]

Another first time poster that has been following your column for years.

I understand if this no longer enjoyable for you, but I do hold out hope that in the future you'll find a way to make it enjoyable for yourself again.

This is totally selfish of course though because I'll really miss your column, scoops, sneak peaks, scripts and insider tidbits. But, I hope we can hear from you again in the future somehow.

Take Care!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Etnaese, 03:45:30 06/07/09 Sun [1]

Thank you so much for the news ever so much. We all wish the best for you.

I wish the crazies would stop. I hate it when they drive away helpful people that only just wanted to bring joy to others.

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Diane (Shocked and Sad), 14:16:10 06/07/09 Sun [1]

I have been wondering where you are on SOC and then tonight someone posted saying something about missing RavenBeauty but after searching all kinds of ways on SOC, it was as if you had never been there. So I googled and found this sad news.

First off, I echo everyone's comments when they say your enthusiasm and fantastic writing ability made it seem like my best friend and I were curled up on the couch with coffee, dishing. You are wonderfully talented and I hope you find another outlet for your wonderful voice. It's silly but I looked forward to every single part - from sparkly outfit to your scoopy riddles (which I was not very good at solving but didn't care since it's supposed to be fun and not serious).

I could see you were getting beaten down and I thought when you stopped writing them with such frequency that it was the beginning of the end.

But as you can see, you really have created so much positive in the universe. You brought joy to a ton of people. Blessings to you!

Second, though, I am pretty astonished at the SOC board for not posting a sticky and deleting all posts referring to you. That is not cool and I don't feel i can be a part of that anymore. They are not good people there if they can't muster up a sticky saying you're no longer writing your column.

Remember all this love everyone has for you. Take care and I hope you find some fabulous new outlets for your optimistic creativity!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- JDDistef, 00:36:16 06/08/09 Mon [1]

Hey, Raven,
We have never spoken directly, but I write TYE over at the Banner. I have nothing but the greatest respect for you and all that you have done over the years. I am saddened by your situation and wish that it was not so. I hope that you will continue writing and that you can find something that makes you happy. I have included my email on the form so that you can contact me any time...
Take care. And thanks for all the spoilers.
D

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- koi, 10:05:11 06/10/09 Wed [1]

Namaste my precious beauty!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Oregon Daisy, 12:02:25 06/12/09 Fri [1]

I am going to cry!!!! But, you do whatever it is that you need to do for you. Your personal happiness is more important than our spoilers. (I guess) *wink*

I think I speak for all of us when I say you will be greatly missed. As always, you are a godess!!

*smoochies*

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Sharon, 21:42:04 06/14/09 Sun [1]

I have been looking for your scoops for weeks now and sadly found this page. Thank you for all the great columns you have posted over the years. I always looked forward to the weekends to see what was in store for the soaps. I will really miss all the time and effort you put into the scoops. Good luck!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- yuggapukka (sorrowful), 02:40:42 06/16/09 Tue [1]

I have greatly enjoyed your spoilers. Your obvious love for the genre of soaps is a delight, especially when so many have contempt for the genre and it's fans. I enjoy the sense of style that infuses your writing. I respect the way you give a sense of context to whatever you post. I am going to miss your writing very much.

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[> Still checking in case you reconsider. -- Diana, 04:19:33 06/21/09 Sun [1]

Hi Raven,

I keep checking this site, just incase you reconsider your decision - I'm hoping you will. You may just need a little time off & then come back to all the fans who truly appreciate what you have done for us with your updates & scoops. There will always be a few rotten apples out there, so just throw them out with the rest of the trash & keep on going with the ones that are good true loyal fans. Please come back - you are truly missed!

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- kathie (so sad), 22:48:05 06/21/09 Sun [1]

ravey, i am so very sorry ! your column here at voy and sage's were the only sites i would lurk on and both of you brought personality, caring, and a true love for soaps and fans to your pages. yes, there are many more ugly people in this world that have nothing better to do than to be vicious and i would be sad for them because that makes it obvious that they don't have a life of their own. well, GOOD LUCK!! in whatever you choose to do and know that much love and respect is out here for you!! you rock girl!!! and always will. much love and happiness for you and those you love you will be missed

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- DontBNurseBetty, 00:35:51 06/23/09 Tue [1]

I'm just checking too- I miss you very much-

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[> Miss you -- Marcy Reed (Rosey) (Sad), 09:17:59 06/24/09 Wed [1]

Raven,

Just wanted to say that you are sorely missed on the SOC boards and hope things are going well for you. I'm just a "mature" soap fan, (emphasis on mature - ha, ha), that always enjoyed your commentary and gossip. I'm so sorry the "crazies" make it so difficult these days. Hope you're doing well....

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[> [> Re: Miss you -- TerryK (peace), 22:07:51 06/29/09 Mon [1]

Ditto here, Raven...you are so, so, missed. Hope you are taking in all the love everyone is still sending you!

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[> [> [> Re: Miss you -- trudie, 09:01:15 07/10/09 Fri [1]

Raven - hope you are happy and well. You are so sorely missed. Can't help but to come back now and again to look....best wishes to you....

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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Murph (Sad), 08:20:30 06/30/09 Tue [1]

Thank you for everything and you will be missed!!!

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[> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Malti, 13:09:31 07/12/09 Sun [1]

Raven!!

I just found out about this. I always enjoyed reading your columns and ate them up like candy. I will miss them, but I completely understand. I hope you come back at some point. Take care and I will keep in touch with you.

Malti

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[> [> [> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- Sondi, 15:34:50 07/12/09 Sun [1]

Hello Raven~ I was just checking to see if you have changed your mind! I hope you are doing well!! You are truly missed...

Sondi

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[> All good things must come to an end... -- one_life_lover, 16:23:26 07/12/09 Sun [1]

I knew eventually this day would come, although to be perfectly honest I had always hoped it would have been much, much later than this.

Raven, I wish you nothing but the best, you are a true sweetheart & you deserve all the happiness the world has to offer. I have enjoyed getting to know you over the years & spending time with you on the boards(and off)....you were my partner in crime & I will always remember the fun times we had. Thank you for everything. I know it was not always easy for you having to deal with the politics that came along with your column & the people who followed it, but you gave us the best you had & you did a fabulous job. We never would have expected anything less from someone who held such fabulousness inside, you never disappointed & you are already greatly missed. :)

Love ya sweetie!

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[> Raven you have no idea how badly you are missed! -- Sad, 13:03:23 10/11/09 Sun [1]

I noticed that all our messages asking you to come back were purged off the system. Hopefully this will be seen.

If you only knew how many people missed you and I mean everywhere all over the internet you might be pleasantly surprised. We keep hoping for a miracle because nobody dished like you. Its not the same without you anymore.

Nobody even comes close which is the really sad part.

Please reconsider.

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[> [> Re: Raven you have no idea how badly you are missed! -- Sondi, 03:50:08 10/12/09 Mon [1]

Hello,

I was so excited to see Raven's blog and then I realized it was from May 09...

Raven you are so very missed!! I wish you would reconsider to come back to all your beloved fans! You are truly the best of the best and greatly missed! I come back on a weekly basis to see if you have changed your mind!!

Love One of your loyal Fans~ Sondi

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[> [> Re: Raven you have no idea how badly you are missed! -- Catherine, 09:36:14 10/16/09 Fri [1]

Raven, I have been following your spoilers for so long I can't even remember. Over 5 years for sure! I wanted to thank you for all your hard work and dedication in the past! You are truly missed by anyone who has ever had the pleasure of reading, its time to lather up! Without your blog, soaps aren't worth watching!

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[> Happy Birthday Raven! I hope life is being good to you and you are doing something special for your special day. You deserve the best and lots of fun! -- LAwoman, 10:35:36 10/15/09 Thu [1]



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[> You were the best. I have tried everyone else and its not the same anymore. Please come back! -- Lee Ann, 17:44:25 11/25/09 Wed [1]


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[> Re: A thank you and a heartfelt goodbye to all my readers. -- OMG are you back??????!!!!!!!, 05:33:19 12/19/10 Sun [1]

Oh please let this be a sign! If you are back, you just gave me one of the best Christmas presents ever! OMG Raven please say you are back!!!!!

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