Friday, October 29, 2010

Episode 105

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Today's episode: "Why Not Your Baby", Part 3

Yesterday, Cy, Conrad, and Darlene made their way to Darlene's room, where she gave the baby a new home.  As they sat around, the two discussed baby names, after Cy's suggestions that the baby should get one.  After some talk, the baby named up being named after Cy's mother, being dubbed Baby Debralee by Darlene.
As we begin, we make our way to the following morning...

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The next day, Cy and Conrad walk quietly into the WHYP green room, where Phil is pouring himself a cup of coffee. He sees the two enter the room.

"Good morning, you two." says Phil.

"Good morning, Phil." says Cy with a smile.

"What's with you this morning, Cy?" asks Phil.

"Well, let's say that a friend of ours has entered the world of parenthood." says Cy.

"You?" asks Phil.

"Not me, althought I won't turn down the opportunity if it happened." says Cy.

"It's my sister." says Conrad, putting a coin into the pinball machine.

"She's knocked up?" asks Phil.

"No, she's a temporary parent of a newborn foundling." says Cy.

"Temporary parent?" says Phil.

"A county babysitter, so to speak." says Cy.

"That's Cy's big idea." says Conrad, beginning a game of pinball.

"I can tell." says Phil.

"Now, all we have to do is tell the world about my idea and the baby in order for it to work." says Cy.

"Not in that order, I hope." says Conrad.

"I'll mention the baby first." says Cy.

"What about the baby?" asks Phil.

"You know, Conrad, I think it's time we give Phil a lesson in radio copy." says Cy.

"What's radio copy?" asks Phil.

"It's what radio personalities read off of when doing their show." says Cy.

"Like a script?" says Phil.

"Like that, but with less notation. All that written down is the points to mention and it's up to the radio personality to make it flow." says Cy.

"I should write out the information and you'll deliver it on the air?" says Phil.

"That's the idea." says Cy.

"I'll start now." says Phil as he runs over to the green room table and grabs a piece of paper and a pencil.

"Oh, brother." says Conrad to himself.

"The first think you need to write down are the words 'baby found'." says Cy.

"Writing it down." says Phil.

"Next, you write down that it is a girl." says Cy.

"A baby girl. As I write, I learn more about this child." says Phil.

"The next step is to write down that it was found outside the police station." says Cy.

"Got it." says Phil.

"Next, it was left under safe haven laws." says Cy.

"That's interesting." says Phil.

"Next thing was that the baby girl has been placed in the hands of a temporary parent." says Cy.

"Working your idea in." says Phil.

"And that this baby is now up for adoption." says Cy.

"That's great." says Phil.

"And wait until you hear what name is being used for it." says Conrad.

"What name?" asks Phil.

"I felt that this baby needed a placeholder name so she can be referred to without problem." says Cy.

"What name did you choose?" asks Phil.

"Darlene decided to name it Baby Debralee." says Cy.

"A namesake for your mother." says Phil.

"Isn't it absurd?" says Conrad.

"I think that's a wonderful way to honor your mother, Cy." says Phil.

"I can't agree with that." says Conrad.

"Accept it anyway." says Cy.

"What posessed you to give this baby to Darlene?" asks Phil.

"Yesterday, she told me about her desire to have children." says Cy.

"What brought that on?" asks Phil.

"Who knows, but she really wants to have children." says Cy.

"How many?" asks Phil.

"About three or four." says Cy.

"She really doesn't want just one. As an only child, I don't see the point in having a sibling." says Phil.

"I'm an only child, as well, and with Conrad, I feel I already have a brother." says Cy.

"If that's true, then Darlene must feel like a sister to you." says Phil.

"Only recently did I feel that way." says Cy.

"I see your point." says Phil.

"When are we gonna get to the negative side of this?" asks Conrad as he ends his pinball game and walks over to where Cy and Phil are.

"What negative side?" asks Phil.

"Cy is making this temporary. If she loses that baby, I wonder what damage it will do to her." says Conrad.

"Stop worrying. Everything will be fine." says Cy.

"Are you actually trying to kill my sister?" asks Conrad.

"Are you actually trying to question my judgment?" says Cy.

"You're ruining my sister and this baby thing might actually do it." says Conrad.

"Do what?" asks Cy.

"Just destroy her." says Conrad.

"Darlene wants children." says Cy.

"But making her a temporary parent must be affecting her, even now." says Conrad.

"It's making her happy." says Cy.

"Happy or crazy?" asks Conrad.

"Can't you two ever get off this subject?" asks Phil.

"I don't think Conrad can. In fact, I think I see some ice on his surface." says Cy.

"I'm not turning into a human iceberg." says Conrad.

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Next week, many surprises are in store as life in HyThe next day, Cy and Conrad walk quietly into the WHYP green room, where Phil is pouring himself a cup of coffee. He sees the two enter the room.


"Good morning, you two." says Phil.

"Good morning, Phil." says Cy with a smile.

"What's with you this morning, Cy?" asks Phil.

"Well, let's say that a friend of ours has entered the world of parenthood." says Cy.

"You?" asks Phil.

"Not me, althought I won't turn down the opportunity if it happened." says Cy.

"It's my sister." says Conrad, putting a coin into the pinball machine.

"She's knocked up?" asks Phil.

"No, she's a temporary parent of a newborn foundling." says Cy.

"Temporary parent?" says Phil.

"A county babysitter, so to speak." says Cy.

"That's Cy's big idea." says Conrad, beginning a game of pinball.

"I can tell." says Phil.

"Now, all we have to do is tell the world about my idea and the baby in order for it to work." says Cy.

"Not in that order, I hope." says Conrad.

"I'll mention the baby first." says Cy.

"What about the baby?" asks Phil.

"You know, Conrad, I think it's time we give Phil a lesson in radio copy." says Cy.

"What's radio copy?" asks Phil.

"It's what radio personalities read off of when doing their show." says Cy.

"Like a script?" says Phil.

"Like that, but with less notation. All that written down is the points to mention and it's up to the radio personality to make it flow." says Cy.

"I should write out the information and you'll deliver it on the air?" says Phil.

"That's the idea." says Cy.

"I'll start now." says Phil as he runs over to the green room table and grabs a piece of paper and a pencil.

"Oh, brother." says Conrad to himself.

"The first think you need to write down are the words 'baby found'." says Cy.

"Writing it down." says Phil.

"Next, you write down that it is a girl." says Cy.

"A baby girl. As I write, I learn more about this child." says Phil.

"The next step is to write down that it was found outside the police station." says Cy.

"Got it." says Phil.

"Next, it was left under safe haven laws." says Cy.

"That's interesting." says Phil.

"Next thing was that the baby girl has been placed in the hands of a temporary parent." says Cy.

"Working your idea in." says Phil.

"And that this baby is now up for adoption." says Cy.

"That's great." says Phil.

"And wait until you hear what name is being used for it." says Conrad.

"What name?" asks Phil.

"I felt that this baby needed a placeholder name so she can be referred to without problem." says Cy.

"What name did you choose?" asks Phil.

"Darlene decided to name it Baby Debralee." says Cy.

"A namesake for your mother." says Phil.

"Isn't it absurd?" says Conrad.

"I think that's a wonderful way to honor your mother, Cy." says Phil.

"I can't agree with that." says Conrad.

"Accept it anyway." says Cy.

"What posessed you to give this baby to Darlene?" asks Phil.

"Yesterday, she told me about her desire to have children." says Cy.

"What brought that on?" asks Phil.

"Who knows, but she really wants to have children." says Cy.

"How many?" asks Phil.

"About three or four." says Cy.

"She really doesn't want just one. As an only child, I don't see the point in having a sibling." says Phil.

"I'm an only child, as well, and with Conrad, I feel I already have a brother." says Cy.

"If that's true, then Darlene must feel like a sister to you." says Phil.

"Only recently did I feel that way." says Cy.

"I see your point." says Phil.

"When are we gonna get to the negative side of this?" asks Conrad as he ends his pinball game and walks over to where Cy and Phil are.

"What negative side?" asks Phil.

"Cy is making this temporary. If she loses that baby, I wonder what damage it will do to her." says Conrad.

"Stop worrying. Everything will be fine." says Cy.

"Are you actually trying to kill my sister?" asks Conrad.

"Are you actually trying to question my judgment?" says Cy.

"You're ruining my sister and this baby thing might actually do it." says Conrad.

"Do what?" asks Cy.

"Just destroy her." says Conrad.

"Darlene wants children." says Cy.

"But making her a temporary parent must be affecting her, even now." says Conrad.

"It's making her happy." says Cy.

"Happy or crazy?" asks Conrad.

"Can't you two ever get off this subject?" asks Phil.

"I don't think Conrad can. In fact, I think I see some ice on his surface." says Cy.

"I'm not turning into a human iceberg." says Conrad.

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Next week, many surprises are in store as life in Hyperion gets used to the new baby, and a conversation happens that changes the very nature of the series forever.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.
 
NOTE: Next week will mark the final week of the daily series of Life in Hyperion.  Starting on November 26th, after a three-week haitus, the series will return on Friday night at 8:00 pm as a weekly series, with new episodes being presented at that time. 

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Episode 104

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Today's episode: "Why Not Your Baby", Part 2

Yesterday, we began our 11th serial of the series with Darlene taking the baby to her living space in the house: the attic.  Meanwhile, Conrad has been voicing his opinion on the whole temporary parent issue, mostly in his usual negative tone. 
As he begin today, Cy and Conrad are about to enter Darlene's room...

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Cy and Conrad enter Darlene's attic loft of a room and Cy is taken in by the furnished trapping of the room itself. The room is filled with a writing desk, a brass bed, a table, and some chairs.

"This room is fit to live in." says Cy.

"It was my sister's choice to live here." says Conrad.

"Back when she was a human iceberg and needed a place to remain frozen. A cold attic is the right place." says Cy.

"I've made a few changes since then." says Darlene as she takes the sleeping baby out of the box.

"I can see them. Attempts to warm the place up, so to speak." says Cy, looking around.

"How are you gonna raise a baby up here?" asks Conrad.

"I'll figure that out." says Darlene.

"This is one big learning experience. I hope you're ready for it." says Cy.

"I know I am." says Darlene.

"That baby hasn't uttered a word since she was found." says Cy.

"Maybe it's dead." says Conrad.

"No, babies are well-known for being sound sleepers. They can sleep for up to 20 hours, which is why they keep their parents up for the same amount of time when they're awake." says Cy.

"Wonderful observation." says Darlene.

"I know it is." says Cy as he sits down at the writing desk.

"How long will this baby stay here?" asks Conrad.

"Just until a permanant home can be found." says Cy.

"You know, I'm getting tired of hearing this child not being refer to by name." says Darlene.

"That's because she doesn't have one." says Cy.

"She needs one." says Darlene.

"Shouldn't the real parents name the baby?" asks Conrad.

"I'm making up the role of temporary parent as I go along and I think the temporary parent should use a placeholder name until adoption." says Cy.

"So, what kind of name should we use?" asks Darlene.

"Names are very important. They reflect something about a person." says Cy.

"Is that so, Cyrus McLean Scott?" asks Conrad.

"Any ideas, Conrad Phillip Harris?" asks Cy.

"None comes to mind." says Conrad.

"It should be a girl's name. I think I have an idea." says Cy.

"We're not naming this baby after your mother, Cy." says Conrad.

"Why not? My mother was very proud of her moniker, for she was the only one to have it." says Cy.

"How did she get that name, Cy?" asks Darlene.

"If I remember, and seeing how you've forgotten since I rarely tell it, it was my grandfather who gave her that name." says Cy.

"How did he do that?" asks Darlene.

"Well, as I recall, one suggestion was Debra and another was Lee. Both are perfectly valid names and both were tied for the baby's name. My grandfather, always inventive, just combined the two and made the name Debralee." says Cy.

"A wonderful story." says Conrad with a sneer.

"At least it's a true story." says Cy.

"Baby Debralee." says Darlene.

"That's what my grandmother said when my grandfather first said it, only as a question of his sanity." says Cy.

"No, that's the name I give this child." says Darlene.

"Once again, a Debralee has entered the world." says Cy.

"But only temporary, remember?" says Conrad.

"I know that. I'm glad someone took it. I've passed that as a baby name suggestion for five years of writing to old friends, who have their own broods, with not a member sharing that name." says Cy.

"Baby Debralee, welcome to the world." says Darlene as the baby finally awakens in her arms.

"Look, she likes that name." says Cy.

"She's also awake." says Darlene.

"I noticed." says Cy.

"She hasn't utter a cry yet." says Conrad.

"She's happy to see me." says Darlene.

"If we're lucky, she'll always think of you as her mother and forget what has happened until now." says Cy.

"I'm your mama, little Debralee." says Darlene.

"That name still rings sweet in my ears." says Cy.

"Now, how are we gonna tell the both of them apart, Cy?" asks Conrad.

"Who cares? Darlene's a mother now." says Cy.

"She's a temporary mother and who knows what's gonna happen tomorrow?" says Conrad.

"A dark streak has entered your mind and making everything you say negative." says Cy.

"Quiet. Don't disturb the baby." says Darlene.

Taking a hint, Cy and Conrad make their leave of the attic and close the door behind them as they walk down the stairs to the second floor.

"Now that we're outta earshot, now maybe you can get what's off your chest." says Cy.

"What's on my chest is this whole Darlene as a temporary parent thing." says Conrad.

"What about this is eating you?" asks Cy.

"The fact that if someone other than her adopts that baby, the effects on her mind will be terrible." says Conrad.

"I'm sure Darlene will pass with flying colors." says Cy.

"What makes you so sure?" asks Conrad.

"I'm betting on certain things." says Cy.

"What things?" asks Conrad.

"Let's just leave it at that." says Cy, who then walks away and down the stairs and out of the house, leaving Conrad to think over what has been said.

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Tomorrow, we end the week with a trip to WHYP, where Cy delivers a lesson in radio to young intern Phil, while Conrad offers only more opinions on things.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Episode 103

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Today's episode: "Why Not Your Baby", Part 1

Yesterday, we ended our tenth serial with Cy and Darlene telling Conrad that he is the temporary uncle of a new-found baby.  Conrad voices a little distrust but he is letting it roll off his back.  However, as we begin today, Conrad is letting his opinions get their voice again...

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Cy and Darlene make their way over to the stairs. Meanwhile, Conrad is getting out of the easy chair and making his way towards them.

"I can't believe you're really doing this." says Conrad.

"Me, neither, but we're doing it." says Cy.

"Aren't you happy for me?" asks Darlene as she, Cy, and Conrad begin to walk up the stairs.

"Are you, Conrad?" asks Cy.

"Maybe." says Conrad.

"Want us to give you a minute?" asks Cy.

"Listen, Cy. I just know you put my sister up to this." says Conrad.

"Why must you blame me for what your sister has done?" asks Cy.

"Because of what you did on her birthday." says Conrad.

"I swear, Conrad, this whole thing is stuck on you like flies on the wall." says Cy.

"But you admit it." says Conrad.

"I admit that what happened has helped her." says Cy.

"And how does turning her into a drunk help her?" asks Conrad.

"She doesn't drink that much anymore, I believe." says Cy.

"I think she is drinking more." says Conrad.

"How do you know? You never talk to her anymore." says Cy.

"Quiet, you guys. You'll wake up the baby." says Darlene.

"There, she's acting like a mother already." says Cy.

"What makes you think she can take care of a baby?" asks Conrad as they reach the second floor.

"She can. I know she can." says Cy.

"That's your opinion, Cy." says Conrad.

"Can you take care of one?" asks Cy.

"I don't know." says Conrad.

"Then don't judge Darlene because she wants to prove herself as a warm and loving mother to a little baby who's had a rough entry into the world." says Cy.

"Don't make this into a grand thing, Cy. After all, your father might have something to do with this." says Conrad.

"How can my father have anything to do with this?" asks Cy.

"He must have pushed your buttons enough to make you go into this without looking ahead." says Conrad.

"You're actually starting to doubt me, aren't you?" asks Cy.

"I might be, Cy. After all, your actions lately haven't been up to snuff." says Conrad as they reach the stairs to the attic.

"Here we are, little girl. Your temporary home." says Darlene as they walk up the attic stairs.

"Listen to how she is to that baby, Conrad. I can tell she's a good mother." says Cy.

"What makes you an expert? Wait, don't tell me, your mother." says Conrad.

"I've also seen bad mothers setting bad examples, both personally and second-hand." says Cy.

"And that makes you an expert?" says Conrad.

"You know, your behavior is starting to get on my nerves." says Cy as he stops on the stairs, causing Conrad to also stop.

"Maybe it's because of what your behavior is making you do." says Conrad.

"You tolerated it before. I know, because this is nothing new." says Cy.

"Maybe it's because of what you've done to my sister." says Conrad.

"What I did to your sister or did not do must have really gotten to you, because it happened over a month ago." says Cy.

"Maybe you have that kind of affect on people." says Conrad.

"Guys, come on up here." says Darlene from the attic.

"Let's go see the baby in its temporary home." says Cy as he resumes going up the stairs.

"Let's do that, let's do that... " says Conrad as he follows behind.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, we see the place where Darlene has made her home in the one she shares with Conrad, and the baby gets its name.  Can you figure out what it is?
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Episode 102

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Today's episode: "The Temporary Parent", Part 6

Yesterday, we began the week with Cy delivering Darlene to report as the first temporary parent, in charge of the foundling.  Darlene manages to win the job and she takes the baby into her arms and gives her the love every child need.  However, Darlene is worried how brother Conrad will take to sudden unclehood, along with Cy.
As we begin today, we head to the Harris house...

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At Conrad and Darlene's house, Conrad sits in the easy chair, reading the newspaper as Cy silently opens the door and walks inside. He spies Conrad and quietly walks over to where Conrad is.

"Hello, Conrad." says Cy.

"Hello, Cy. What brings you here?" says Conrad.

"Something." says Cy.

"What something?" asks Conrad.

"Something interesting." says Cy.

"How interesting?" asks Conrad.

"Very interesting." says Cy.

"How very?" asks Conrad.

"Very." says Cy.

"Out with it, Cy." says Conrad.

"You think you're ready?" asks Cy.

"You're leading up to something." says Conrad.

"I might be." says Cy.

"I think you are." says Conrad.

"Well, I guess you're right." says Cy.

"I knew it." says Conrad.

"What I'm leading up to is very important, it seems." says Cy.

"What are you leading up to?" asks Conrad.

"It concerns your sister and housemate Darlene." says Cy.

"What about Darlene?" asks Conrad.

"Oh, she's doing fine." says Cy.

"Is she becoming her old self again?" asks Conrad.

"You know that her re-freezing is not a happy thing." says Cy.

"So, it's a happy thing?" asks Conrad.

"For her. For you, I'm not sure." says Cy.

"What would happy for her but not me?" asks Conrad.

"What makes you think that it might not be happy for you?" asks Cy.

"Because of what you just said." says Conrad.

"It could be happy for you. All I said that I wasn't sure it would be." says Cy.

"Cy, you're circling around something." says Conrad.

"Oh, am I?" asks Cy.

"I think you are." says Conrad.

"I might be doing that." says Cy.

"Cy, I'm not in the mood for riddles." says Conrad.

"How about one?" asks Cy.

"Go ahead, if it will help me." says Conrad.

"What's in a box and makes a lot of noise?" asks Cy.

"That's not a riddle." says Conrad.

"It is to me. Come on, give me an answer." says Cy.

"I give up." says Conrad.

"A baby in a box." says Cy.

"What an answer." says Conrad.

"And yet, that answer is the center of of what I'm leading up to." says Cy.

"That doesn't make any sense." says Conrad.

"Then, perhaps another riddle. What do a baby in a box, your sister, and you have in common?" says Cy.

"I give up, Cy." says Conrad.

"That all share the same house." says Cy.

"What does that mean?" asks Conrad.

"It means that this afternoon, I happened upon a abandoned baby girl that was left at the police station. I took her inside and felt like she's needed someone to take care of her." says Cy.

"And where does my sister come in?" asks Conrad.

"Well, she told me that her material instincts had kicked in and that she wanted a baby so badly." says Cy.

"Left me finish. So you had Darlene take the baby home with her." says Conrad.

"Only temporary. An idea I'm trying out." says Cy.

"What idea?" asks Conrad.

"Temporary parents. Sort of like a 24-hour babysitter for the county or state. They take care of children until real homes can be found for them." says Cy.

"That idea is among the most interesting I've ever heard out of you." says Conrad.

"Darlene is my test case. If she works out, I may consider popularizing my idea and make it an official job." says Cy.

"What if the temporary parent can't let go of their charge?" asks Conrad.

"They can adopt their charge, when it needed." says Cy.

"How do you prevent large families?" asks Conrad.

"I'm thinking on putting a limit on how many charges a temporary parent can adopt." says Cy.

"Have you thought up a number?" asks Conrad.

"I'm thinking four charges in total." says Cy.

"Sounds like a credit card bill." says Conrad.

"Don't belittle this idea, Conrad." says Cy.

"I didn't like your birthday dare idea." says Conrad.

"Darlene challenged me, so I responded. Besides, I like the result." says Cy.

"Let's not get back on that track." says Conrad.

"Conrad, you're gonna be a temporary uncle. The decision has been made." says Cy.

"Sometimes, I wonder if you do think of others first when you offer these ideas." says Conrad.

"Is that a pointed question?" asks Cy.

"It might be." says Conrad.

"Now cut that out!" says Cy.

"You gave me the royal run-around." says Conrad.

"It doesn't work in reverse, brother." says Cy.

"I'm not related to you." says Conrad.

"But Darlene is, so show some common sense around her." says Cy.

"Is it safe to come in now?" asks Darlene as she enters the house.

"It is. I think Conrad is calm enough to handle it." says Cy.

"Conrad, meet your temporary nephew." says Darlene.

"I can't believe this is happening." says Conrad.

"Cheer up, Conrad. It's only temporary." says Cy.

"But how temporary?" asks Conrad.

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Tomorrow, we begin another serial with the baby being taken to its brand-new home, and with Conrad voicing his opinion of the whole thing, which should be interesting.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Episode 101

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Today's episode: "The Temporary Parent", Part 5

Last week, we had our 100th episode of the series.  We also saw Cy discover a baby outside the police station, left under the safe haven laws.  As the police department gathered around the child, Cy decided, rather than let the kid being moved around like a box, to enlist the services of what he called a temporary parent. 
As we begin this week, Cy has just asked his prototype temporary parent, Darlene, if she would accept the job, which she did, and the two are on their way to the police station...

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Cy and Darlene arrive at the police station and find that only Officer Grace is still at the desk, where the baby lays sleeping.

"Where's everyone?" asks Cy.

"Doing their jobs." says Officer Grace.

"I'm still around." says Thomas, sitting in a chair, next to the desk.

"I brought the temporary parent." says Cy.

"Darlene Harris, at your service." says Darlene.

"The doctor hasn't arrived yet. When the baby is deemed healthy, Chief McIntyre will allow you to take it home." says Officer Grace.

"Is there any paperwork to sign?" asks Darlene.

"Cy invented the role of temporary parent. It'll take awhile before someone invents the paperwork." says Officer Grace.

"That's when you know that an idea has taken off, when there's paperwork for it." says Cy.

"Is that the baby?" asks Darlene, pointing at the box.

"Yes, it is." says Officer Grace.

"She looks beautiful." says Darlene, looking in the box.

"That she does." says Officer Grace.

"Hi there, little girl. I'm your temporary parent." says Darlene to the baby.

"Look at that, already connecting." says Cy.

"I just hope the connection can be cut." says Chief McIntyre as he walks up to the desk.

"This is Darlene Harris, the first temporary parent." says Cy.

"Nice to meet you, Ma'am." says Chief McIntyre.

"It's great to have the honor of watching over this baby, for a while." says Darlene.

"Remember that, Miss Harris." says Chief McIntyre.

"Also remember that Darlene is to be in the running for adoption." says Cy.

"I keep that in mind." says Chief McIntyre.

"Thank you for this, Cy." says Darlene.

"No problem." says Darlene.

Some time later, the doctor from the county has arrived and is examining the baby quiet throughtly as Cy and company watch around the desk.

"How is she, doc?" asks Cy.

"She's doing fine. Did you give her any fluids?" says the doctor.

"I gave her a little milk." says Darlene.

"That's good. Just treat her right and she'll be fine." says the doctor.

"I can't believe whoever she came out of didn't want her." says Cy.

"Not many people want children." says Officer Grace.

"That's no excuse for throwing them away. Babies are people, not trash." says Cy.

"At least whoever it was was nice enough to leave it here." says the doctor.

"And that's the only good thing that happened to this baby so far." says Cy.

"What about me?" asks Darlene.

"I forgot. I do that sometimes." says Cy.

"I know." says Darlene.

"Well, she's healthy and ready to go." says the doctor.

"Nice to know. Now, I can take it home." says Darlene.

"What?" asks the doctor.

"An idea Cy came up, a temporary parent." says Chief McIntyre.

"What's a temporary parent?" asks the doctor.

"It's like a 24-hour babysitter. They have all of the responibilities of a parent but the job isn't permanant." says Cy.

"That sounds like a good idea." says the doctor.

"Also, the temporary parent can be considered a candidate for adopting their charge." says Cy.

"That could lead to large families quickly." says the doctor.

"Maybe we can install a limit once the idea gets off the ground." says Cy.

"We'll work on it, rest assured. I now release the child into the hands of the temporary parent." says the doctor.

"Thanks, sir." says Darlene.

"I'll explain this to my superiors." says the doctor.

"Include a letter of explaination from me." says Chief McIntyre, who then produces an enevlope from his pocket.

"Why give me this?" asks the doctor.

"Because any idea of Cy should include a letter explaining it." says Chief McIntyre.

"Thanks." says the doctor, who then leaves.

"The baby's all yours, Darlene." says Chief McIntyre.

"Good." says Darlene, who then picks up the box.

"I'll help you guide the baby to her new home." says Cy, who then leaves with Darlene.

"I hope Cy's idea doesn't ruin Darlene." says Chief McIntyre.

"In what way?" asks Officer Grace.

"I hope she'll be willing to give up the baby if she isn't selected to adopt the baby." says Chief McIntyre, who then retreats back into his office.

"Same here." says Officer Grace.

Meanwhile, Cy and Darlene are walking to her home. The walking slows down when Darlene decides to stop Cy in his tracks.

"I think we should discuss something." says Darlene.

"What about?" asks Cy.

"Conrad." says Darlene.

"I forgot about him. How are we gonna explain this to him?" says Cy.

"Do you have any ideas?" asks Darlene.

"Let me think for a minute." says Cy.

"Hurry up, before the baby awakens." says Darlene.

"I've got it." says Cy.

"What is it?" asks Darlene.

"I'll go in ahead of you and explain this to Conrad. When he's accepted it, I'll signal you to come in." says Cy.

"Great idea." says Darlene.

"I know that another part of my legacy will be surviving Conrad's reaction to him being a temporary uncle." says Cy.

"If you do." says Darlene as both get back underway.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, we end another serial with Conrad being told of his new status in life, that of a temporary uncle for the county, and we'll see what he says about it.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Episode 100

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you the landmark 100th episode of Life in Hyperion.

Today's episode: "The Temporary Parent", Part 4

Yesterday, on our 99th episode, Cy, walking his way home, saw someone leave a box outside the police station.  Looking into it, Cy found that the box contained a living baby, left under safe haven laws.  Cy then took the baby inside and all inside are trying to figure out what to do with the foundling.
As we begin the 100th episode, Cy has just an a brainstorm of an idea...

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

"What is it?" asks Officer Grace.

"Someone told me today that they would like to have a child." says Cy.

"Who is it?" asks Officer Grace.

"Conrad's sister Darlene." says Cy.

"Why her?" asks Officer Timmy.

"She told me today that her material instincts have finally kicked in overtime and she wants a child so bad." says Cy.

"Wait a minute, Cy. You wanna give this baby to someone who might not let go of her if someone else adopts her?" says Chief McIntyre.

"Where do you get that idea?" asks Cy.

"You just told us that she wants a child very badly. How do we know that she won't try to keep it?" says Chief McIntyre.

"Maybe you should have Darlene as one of the potential adoptive parents of the baby." says Cy.

"There's a thought. I keep it in mind." says Chief McIntyre.

"Do you also mind if I bring in Darlene for a look-see?" asks Cy.

"I don't mind at all. It'll be nice to see someone get this child on the right track." says Chief McIntyre.

"And then let someone else take over?" asks Officer Timmy.

"Just keep watch." says Chief McIntyre, who then retreats back into his office.

"I'll go get Darlene." says Cy, who then leaves the building.

"Cy's concern over this baby is a little unfounded." says Polly.

"What do you mean?" asks Thomas.

"I mean, he just offered Darlene up as a parent out of the blue when he ran out of us as parents." says Polly.

"So what, Polly?" asks Thomas.

"He should have let the county take the baby in until a parent could have been found for it." says Polly.

"Maybe he has the baby's interests at heart." says Thomas.

"I don't think Cy's being a humanitarian over this child. Cy's gist in this whole thing is tilted somewhat." says Polly.

"Cy's actions seemed normal to me." says Thomas.

"And yet, he seems to want this baby to go home with someone and he didn't even volunteer himself for the job." says Polly.

"According to him, he's got two boarders and a dog in that house of his. Trust me, there's no room for a baby." says Thomas.

"And his father until yesterday." says Polly.

"He was only here for two days." says Thomas.

"And he seems to have stirred Cy somewhat. I mean, if his father hadn't been here yesterday and the day before, you think that Cy would even be behind this baby?" says Polly.

"Maybe you should leave him alone. After all, he's bringing in what he calls a temporary parent to the baby." says Thomas.

"Is it just temporary?" asks Polly, who then moves off.

At the library, Darlene is overseeing those in the children's area. The kids are playing and reading as quietly as most kids are, so there is a slight din to the room. Darlene sighs as she see the children.

Cy then enters the library, walking a little fast. He looks around and makes his way over to where Darlene is. He then tries to speak and can't say a word. He then thinks a little about he is going to say.

"Hello, Cy." says Darlene in a depressed manner, causing Cy to snap out of his thinking.

"Hello, Darlene. See that our conversation didn't help you." says Cy.

"I can't help it. Every time I look at these kids, I just wanna have one of my own. A child to hold and feed and change and all of that." says Darlene.

"Well, I might have an answer to that." says Cy.

"What answer can you give that will help me?" asks Darlene longingly.

"As I was walking home, I saw someone leave something next to the police station. When I checked on it, I found that it was... a baby." says Cy.

"Are you kidding?" asks Darlene.

"You think that I would kid you about that?" says Cy.

"How old is it?" asks Darlene.

"It's a she and she's only a couple hours old. Let me tell you, it's a hard way to enter the world." says Cy.

"Why did you come here and tell me about the baby in the first place?" asks Darlene.

"Because I've decided to make you the baby's temporary parent." says Cy.

"Temporary parent?" asks Darlene.

"Yeah, someone who takes care of a child until real parents can be found for it." says Cy.

"Aren't those called foster parents?" asks Darlene.

"This is different. A foster parent is a real parent, for they adopt the child. A temporary parent is only acting in place of the state until a real home can be found for it, like a 24-hour babysitter." says Cy.

"Like a live-in social worker?" says Darlene.

"That's the idea. If your run as a temporary parent works out, I may popularize the idea." says Cy.

"How long is temporary in my case?" asks Darlene.

"Until someone comes around and adopts the child, althought in your favor, I have asked Chief McIntyre to make you a candidate for adopting the baby." says Darlene.

"And if I lose?" asks Darlene.

"I will have to give up the child to its real parents. Remember, the baby is a loan, not something to keep at this time." says Cy.

"I'll try hard to take care of the baby and hope that my time as a temporary parent will help in my selection as the baby's real parent." says Darlene.

"If no real candidate is approved by the county, the baby will be yours." says Cy.

"That's nice to know." says Darlene.

"The baby is down at the police station now. Would you like to see your temporary daughter?" says Cy.

"I would." says Darlene.

"Shall we leave?" asks Cy as he makes his way to the door.

"Let us do." says Darlene as she follows suit.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Next week, we end our tenth serial and begin our 11th serial with Darlene's first day as a temporary parent for Van Buren County and the City of Hyperion, and that, my friends, is quite a mouthful of a title to give someone.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly,
the All-Mighty Executive Producer, Writer, Director, and Creator of The Show,
John Maxwell
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Episode 99

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Only one more to go until the 100th episode!!

Today's episode: "The Temporary Parent", Part 3

Yesterday, Darlene told Cy all about her real desire to have a child of her own, after being such a hero to the children of Hyperion have stirred her maternal feelings inside.  Cy then went over her options, which didn't seem to strike her too well and he departed, with Darlene still thinking of motherhood.  Meanwhile, Officer Grace and Timmy shared a talk on being police officers.
As we begin, we head outside...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back downtown, Cy is walking up the streets, his mind lost in a sea of thought over what had Darlene said. Suddenly, he sees something interesting off in the distance ahead.

After a moment, he sees that it's someone walks slowly over to the police station and leaving something by the door and walking away. Cy takes in the sight and decides to see what was left behind.

Cy quietly continues his walk. When he reaches the police station, he quietly turns onto the walkway up to the front door. When he reaches the front door, he looks around and sees that a box has been left behind.

Cy walks up to the box and looks inside. There, he is stunned to find that the box contains a small baby, covered in blankets and fast asleep. Cy then picks up the box and knocks on the door.

"I wonder who that is?" says Officer Grace as she gets up from the desk and walks over to the door.

"Be careful, it could be a murderer." says Officer Timmy.

"Murderers don't knock." says Thomas, walking by the desk with a broom in his hand.

"Keep sweeping." says Officer Timmy as Officer Grace opens the door.

"Good day, Cy. What brings you here?" says Officer Grace.

"This box." says Cy.

"What's in the box?" asks Officer Grace.

"First, may I enter?" asks Cy.

"You may." says Officer Grace as Cy then steps inside the station and heads over to the desk where Officer Timmy is.

"Hello, Officer Timmy. Arrested any civilians today?" says Cy.

"May you joke about the law?" asks Officer Timmy.

"If I answer, can I plead the fifth?" says Cy.

"Cy, show us what's in the box." says Officer Grace as she walks over.

"Here." says Cy as he opens the box.

"Is that a baby?" asks Officer Timmy.

"Don't arrest it." says Cy.

"It looks cute." says Officer Grace.

"That's a girl, or a she." says Cy.

"How can you tell?" asks Officer Grace.

"I've seen my mother's baby pictures. Trust me, I know." says Cy.

"How old is she?" asks Officer Grace.

"Seeing how pink she is and remembering a few television shows, I would guess just a few hours old." says Cy.

"What a way to enter the world." says Officer Grace.

"I'll go get Chief McIntyre." says Officer Timmy as he leaves.

"I hope it's not so he can arrest the baby." says Cy.

"Put your paranoia away for now, Cy." says Officer Grace.

"I will. Welcome to the world, little girl. I promise you that this isn't a good way to start out in life." says Cy.

"I wonder who left her here?" asks Officer Grace.

"I can't imagine anyone who wouldn't want a child." says Cy.

"It happens, Cy." says Officer Grace.

"It shouldn't. Babies should be welcomed, no matter what, and taken in, not thrown away as garbage." says Cy.

"This baby was left under the Safe Haven Law." says Chief McIntyre as he arrives at the desk.

"Good day, Chief McIntyre. I found this one outside your door. I thought I would bring it inside before the sun got to her." says Cy.

"Once again, you've done right." says Chief McIntyre.

"I was lucky enough. By the time this kid woke up, it could have been night and she would have died." says Cy.

"Ease up, Cy. The baby is safe." says Chief McIntyre.

"What are we gonna do with it?" asks Polly, standing behind Officer Grace.

"Well, I guess the main goal should be to find the lady a home." says Cy.

"First, let's call a doctor and see how healthy she is." says Chief McIntyre.

"Then get on the phone." says Cy.

"If you insist." says Chief McIntyre, who then walks away.

"This baby needs a home right away." says Cy.

"Relax, Cy. I'm sure the county will take her in until someone adopts her." says Officer Grace.

"That may be fine for you, but I think that someone ougtha watch over the baby with only the attention a parent can give." says Cy.

"The county hosiptal will take care of little Baby Doe just fine." says Officer Timmy.

"Baby Doe? That's another thing." says Cy.

"What's wrong with Baby Doe?" asks Officer Timmy.

"That's a bad name to give a newborn." says Cy.

"Standard practice is to let the adoptive parents name the child." says Officer Timmy.

"Maybe the baby can use a temporary name until she gets an offical name." says Cy.

"That's an interesting idea, Cy." says Polly.

"Maybe you would like to carry it out?" asks Cy.

"No thanks. I don't need any distractions from my career." says Polly.

"Do it for me." says Cy.

"No. Find someone else." says Polly.

"Officer Grace, my intern's girlfriend and noted friend to yours truly." says Cy.

"Your butter won't work on me." says Officer Grace.

"Any fathers?" asks Cy.

"No, Cy. I have enough trouble with my mother to deal with a baby." says Thomas.

"I don't need a baby on my record. I wish to remain unattached." says Officer Timmy.

"And I sure don't want it." says Chief McIntyre as he returns from his office.

"I'm still determined to get the baby a temporary parent until someone adopts it." says Cy.

"Why don't we just wait for the doctor to show up and give the baby an examination?" asks Chief McIntyre.

"Wait! I think I have an idea." says Cy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, on our 100th episode, we find out what Cy's brilliant idea is, and as we all know from experience, Cy's ideas tend to lead to great adventures, don't they?
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Episode 98

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Only two more to go until the 100th episode!

Today's episode: "The Temporary Parent", Part 2

Yesterday, we began our tenth serial of the series with storytime at the local library with Darlene, who has become a hero to the children of Hyperion.  Cy, still stewing over the departure of his father yesterday, comes for a visit and is taken in by the treatment Darlene gives the children, very different from the times she tried to ban them as a human iceberg.
As we begin today, a topic stews in Darlene's mind...

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

"Cy, can I confide in you?" asks Darlene.

"I'm sure you can." says Cy.

"I've been reading to the kids for a while, and helping them." says Darlene.

"I know that." says Cy.

"And it's awakened some feelings in me." says Darlene.

"I get it. Your long-domant material instincts are alive and well." says Cy.

"I just wanna have a kid of my own." says Darlene.

"It would be a good step in your return to humanity to raise a child." says Cy.

"I just I could have one." says Darlene.

"Well, there are three ways to get one. One, you can go the usual nine months, either by man or sperm donor." says Cy.

"What's the second way?" asks Darlene.

"Just take one, and if you go that way, I'll alert Officer Grace to a children count in case one turns up missing." says Cy.

"And the third one?" asks Darlene.

"Adopt." says Cy.

"But I wanna a baby to hold in my arms." says Darlene.

"It's rare that an adoption agency has a child under six months of age." says Cy.

"But then what is a mother to do?" asks Darlene.

"You're not a mother yet, Darlene." says Cy.

"One day, I will be." says Darlene.

"Why the rush to motherhood?" asks Cy.

"Because I'm 30 and I have no children." says Darlene.

"My mother was your age when she had me." says Cy.

"And only you. Remember that, Cy." says Darlene.

"How many offspring are we talking about here?" asks Cy.

"A nice-sized brood. About three or four." says Darlene.

"Don't worry. If you stick with Thomas, I'm sure he can help you with that." says Cy.

"Me and Thomas haven't really seen each other for a while now." says Darlene.

"All relationships go through a cooling-off period. It's normal." says Cy.

"Has it happened to you and Joanne yet?" asks Darlene.

"We had a touch of it, but me and her are in it for the long haul, it seems." says Cy.

"You sound like your father." says Darlene.

"Long haul means more than my father." says Cy.

"Tell me you never felt the urge to roam." says Darlene.

"Maybe once, but I quietly buried it." says Cy.

"You talk about your mother and never your father. I feel something wrong with that." says Darlene.

"Just because you want kids doesn't mean you can adopt me as yours." says Cy.

"I never even got to see him this time and show him the melted me." says Darlene.

"Maybe he'll head back this way soon, but I doubt that." says Cy.

"You and your father should get along better. To me, you seem alike." says Darlene.

"I'm not like him in the least. I stay in one place." says Cy.

"Then why all the talk about Polly and her career. Sounds like you're looking for an excuse to leave." says Darlene.

"Perhaps I better leave here." says Cy.

"See you around... Mitch." says Darlene as Cy makes his leave.

Down at the police station, Officer Grace is sitted at a desk as she fills out some paperwork. Meanwhile, Officer Timmy walks over to where the desk is, adjusting his belt as he walks.

"What a day, I say." says Officer Timmy.

"Right that you are." says Officer Grace.

"The sun is out and about." says Officer Timmy.

"I can see it." says Officer Grace.

"Just another day in the city." says Officer Grace.

"Trying to be a poet, Officer Timmy?" asks Officer Grace.

"Very funny. It's our job to keep an eye out for crime." says Officer Timmy.

"Seems to be very calm today." says Officer Grace.

"Just a few days ago, we learned that a dangerous man had taken up residence in our town." says Officer Timmy.

"But Cy put a stop to that." says Officer Grace.

"I hear you're dating one of his co-workers." says Officer Timmy.

"His name is Phil." says Officer Grace.

"Is he a shady character?" asks Officer Timmy.

"He's a very nice man." says Officer Grace.

"Well, be careful, he might be a shady character." says Officer Timmy.

"With you, I can see Cy's paranoia about cops." says Officer Grace.

"The way he puts cops is the way a cop should be. They shouldn't let their feelings cloud their judgement, not for a second." says Officer Timmy.

"That paranoia comes from cops like that roaming the streets of New York City." says Officer Grace.

"Trust in cops should be kept as much as trust in a deity." says Officer Timmy.

"I'll never be like that, and I hope to God I never see your side of the coin." says Officer Grace.

"What side of the coin?" asks Officer Timmy.

"The unfeeling, by-the-book cop that cares more about the law than the people. Cy has a name for it, 'Sergeant Friday Syndrome'." says Officer Grace.

"The day I care less about the law, may I be struck dead." says Officer Timmy.

"Then I better have you transferred." says Officer Grace.

"What for?" asks Officer Timmy.

"So you don't stink up the place when you die like that." says Officer Grace.
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, Cy makes another important discovery, which leads to more important changes to those around him, as he always does when he makes discoveries, like Columbus.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Episode 97

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Only 3 to go until the 100th episode!

Today's episode: "The Temporary Parent", Part 1

Yesterday, we concluded our ninth serial with the conclusion to the whole storyline begun in our sixth serial, with Renee and Stacy offering final thoughts on Al and Renee's thoughts on Cy, to which Stacy and Officer Grace commented on.  Meanwhile, Mitch, Cy's father, tried his best to get a conversation out of his son, to no avail.
As we begin, Mitch has made his departure and left Cy to stew for a day...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's another day at the library as Darlene sits in a chair, facing a group of children, sitted cross-legged on the floor. In her hands is a story book. Its open pages are facing the children as she reads them a passage.

"'The brave soldier faces the mighty... ' what?" says Darlene.

"Dragon." says one of the kids.

"Very good. Now, what is the soldier holding in his hand?" says Darlene.

"A sword." says another kid.

"Good. 'He then faced the dragon in the... ' what?" says Darlene.

"Face?" says the first kid.

"No." says Darlene.

"Eye?" asks a third kid.

"That's right. 'He then told the dragon, 'I must slay you.' Now, tell me, what does 'slay' mean?" says Darlene.

"It means to kill." says the first kid.

"Very good. Now, we turn the page and find the brave soldier charging at the dragon. 'He ran as fast as he could, looking at the dragon the whole time.'." says Darlene.

As Darlene reads the passage, Cy enters the library. As he looks around, he sees the sight and looks on with delight as the brave soldier in the story pierces the dragon's skin.

"Ouch." says Cy to himself.

"'The brave soldier then watched as the dragon breathed his last fiery breath. He then stood over the body, his sword held in triumph. The townpeople came up and saw the dead body of the dragon and carried the soldier back into town for a celebration of his deed.'." says Darlene, who then closes the book.

"That was great." says Cy.

"Okay, kids. Go off and read some more." says Darlene as the kids scatter around the children's area.

"Good story." says Cy as Darlene gets up from the chair.

"Thanks, Cy. What are you doing here?" says Darlene as she walks over to the main desk.

"I'm here to find something to do since my father left yesterday." says Cy.

"I can't believe he did that without meeting the rest of us." says Darlene.

"That's the first time you've cared about my father's departures." says Cy.

"Cy, I just love reading to those kids." says Darlene.

"And after all those years of snearing them and nearly banning them from this place." says Cy.

"Proof anyone can reform." says Darlene.

"Ain't that the truth?" says Cy.

"It has been wonderful." says a man as he walks over to where the two are standing.

"Hello, sir. Cy, this is the head librarian, Mr. Edward." says Darlene.

"That makes you Mr. Ed." says Cy.

"That it does. Miss Harris, your performance over the last couple of weeks has been marvelous." says Mr. Edward.

"Really?" asks Cy.

"Yes, Darlene has geninue feelings for our young readers now. She has read them stories and she has become their hero." says Mr. Edward.

"A hero to the younger set. I'm impressed." says Cy.

"I enjoy every minute of it." says Darlene.

"That so?" asks Cy.

"Yes, she does." says Mr. Edward.

"Mr. Edward, what are you doing here?" asks Darlene.

"I came here to ask if you would like to read to the kids some more." says Mr. Edward.

"I would be delighted." says Darlene.

"Pardon my ignorance, but who might you be?" asks Mr. Edward.

"I'm Cyrus McLean Scott, local radio personality." says Cy.

"I listen to you every morning. Ever think of writing your mother's life story?" says Mr. Edward.

"Always looking out for new books for the library?" says Cy.

"You caught me." says Mr. Edward.

"When Random House gives me a call, I'll get out the typewriter." says Cy.

"The world has Bennett Cerf to thank for the world's best literature." says Mr. Edward as he walks away.

"And What's My Line for his fame." says Cy.
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, Darlene offers up a topic that must be made in order to keep the human race going year after year.  Offer your two cents to it when it comes.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved

Monday, October 18, 2010

Episode 96

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Only 4 episodes left until the 100th episode!

Today's episode: "The Truck Driving Man", Part 7

Last week, we saw the arrival of Cy's father, long-haul trucker Mitch Jones, in Hyperion.  As Mitch meet Cy's friends, Cy himself proved very cold to his own dad, as memories of the past came back to him and Cy tried to deal with it the best he could.  By the end of the week, we saw Cy take his father on a tour of the town, which ended at Tom's Place.
As we begin this week, we continue as the aftermath of Cy's adventure is still being looked over...

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

As Polly, Thomas, and Officer Grace scatter to various parts of the room, Renee and Stacy remain by the desk.

"I can't believe this whole thing is over." says Renee.

"Me, neither." says Stacy.

"I never thought that I would ever see you again." says Stacy.

"Same here." says Renee.

"Aren't you happy about this?" asks Stacy.

"Yes, I am." says Renee.

"The way you're talking to me, it doesn't seem so." says Stacy.

"I am happy." says Renee.

"You really oughta think Cy for getting us back together." says Stacy.

"I didn't ask him to do it." says Renee.

"He didn't have to." says Stacy.

"Did you hear what his father called him? Mac, just like every other New Yorker." says Renee.

"Isn't that his middle name? You told me the name once, Cyrus McLean Scott." says Stacy.

"That may be so." says Renee.

"And it's what truck drivers often refer to each other." says Stacy.

"You have an explanation for everything about him." says Renee.

"Why are you still against him, even after everything he's done?" asks Stacy.

"Because I still think he did this for his own benefit, not ours." says Renee.

"He doesn't strike me as self-centered." says Stacy.

"I told you, he doesn't have pictures of loved ones, only his mother." says Renee.

"Doesn't his mother count as a loved one?" asks Stacy.

"She just raised him." says Renee.

"Doesn't sound like that. She's very important in his life." says Stacy.

"You never even heard of her." says Stacy.

"I went online when Al wasn't looking and I found some info on her." says Stacy.

"And what did you find?" asks Renee.

"She was an actress and she was in a couple of good films." says Stacy.

"That doesn't mean a thing." says Renee.

"I also learned what she was like and she reminds me of you, pretty and tough."

says Stacy.

"She also raised Cy." says Renee.

"Who's a very intelligent person and I don't think Debralee would have accepted anything less from her offspring." says Stacy.

"Cy has a large painting of her above the fireplace and her urn. He's always surrounded by reminders of her." says Renee.

"I think, after seeing Cy in action, the whole world needs reminding and Cy does that well." says Stacy.

"I guess he must be more than the son of Debralee Scott." says Officer Grace, walking over to the desk.

"You've been overhearing our conversation?" asks Renee.

"Yes, and I've heard many opinions on Cy but never self-serving. As you said yourself, Stacy, his mother would not accept anything less than someone who knows right from wrong." says Officer Grace.

"Many people would say what we do together is wrong." says Renee.

"It's not wrong to Cy." says Officer Grace.

"You're right, Officer." says Stacy.

"I'm starting to see your point, but I'll need more." says Renee.

"Just tune a radio to WHYP weekday mornings and you'll get it." says Officer Grace, who then walks away.

"Maybe I should do that sometime." says Renee.

"I'll join you, tomorrow." says Stacy.

"It's a date." says Renee.

Back at Tom's Place, Cy and Mitch continue to sit and drink beer, as Cy continues not to offer much in talking.

"Mac, you haven't said much to me in the last 30 minutes." says Mitch.

"I haven't?" asks Cy.

"There you go again. You know, if you have something to say, say it." says Mitch.

"I don't feel like it." says Cy.

"You must feel like something." says Mitch.

"I feel fine, Dad." says Cy.

"Your feeling has gone down today since this morning." says Mitch.

"How nice of you to notice." says Cy.

"C'mon, Mac. From what I hear, you just had a great adventure. Lighten up." says Mitch.

"Maybe I should." says Cy.

Suddenly, a cell phone on Mitch's belt rings, with a old-fashioned phone ring-type ringtone, rings out.

"Excuse me, Cy." says Mitch as he answers the phone.

"Take all the time you need." says Cy.

After a minute of talking, Mitch hangs up the phone.

"Cy, listen. I've gotta tell you something." says Mitch.

"What is it, Dad?" asks Cy.

"I've just gotten an order to go to Kalamazoo to pick up a shipment and take it to Baton Rouge." says Mitch as he gets up from the bar stool.

"Dad, wait." says Cy as he gets up from his bar stool.

Cy and Mitch make their way out of the place and make their way back to Cy's house.

"Hate to drink and run, Mac, but I must go." says Mitch.

"If you say so." says Cy as he and Mitch reach the driveway.

"Explain to everyone else about my sudden departure." says Mitch.

"I will, Dad." says Cy as they reach the truck.

"I promise to back this way soon, Mac." says Mitch as he gets inside.

"Take your time." says Cy.

"If you say so." says Mitch as he closes the door behind him.

"Goodbye, Dad, again." says Cy as Mitch pulls the truck out of the driveway.

Cy then stares as the truck makes its way down the street, leaving Cy with a misx of emotions as Stacy and Renee make their way up to the house.

"I see Mitch is leaving. Where's he going?" says Renee.

"Off to Kalamazoo, then Baton Rouge, then to parts unknown." says Cy.

"A trucker's life. We didn't even get to say goodbye." says Stacy.

"With him, you never do." says Cy.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, we begin our tenth serial of the series with a visit to the local library and the children's reading hour, hosted by.... well, just tune it and find out.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Episode 95

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Only 5 episodes left until the 100th episode!

Today's episode: "The Truck Driving Man", Part 6

Yesterday, Cy took his father on a tour of Hyperion.  Their stops included the police station, where Mitch meet Polly, Thomas, and Officer Grace, who made Mitch, a trucker, enemy to highway patrols, feel at home.  Their stops also included Tom's Place, where Cy worked out a deal for Polly to perform there every week, which went well.
As we begin, Cy and Mitch are sitting down to a celebratory drink...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Mac, let's talk." says Mitch.

"About what?" asks Cy.

"Your life." says Mitch.

"What about my life?" asks Cy.

"How's it been these past five years?" asks Mitch.

"As well as can be." says Cy.

"It was hard to lose your mother." says Mitch.

"That's true." says Cy.

"Debralee meant a lot to me as a friend, but it must have been hard on you." says Cy.

"Here's your beers." says Tom, handling them to Cy and Mitch.

"Thanks. Tell me something I don't know." says Cy.

"Are you upset about somethin'?" asks Mitch.

"Nothing. Nothing at all." says Cy.

"C'mon, Mac. Tell your dad here what's on your mind." says Mitch.

"There's not much to tell." says Cy.

"There must be, seeing what friends you have 'round." says Mitch.

"They're nice people." says Cy.

"I know that. Anyone you don't like?" says Mitch.

"My rivals Barry and Terry." says Cy.

"I don't appeal to me, either." says Mitch.

"You've heard them?" asks Cy.

"I've may have listened to them and they don't really do much." says Mitch.

"You've been this way more than once." says Cy.

"Really, Mac... " says Mitch.

"You've been this way in the last five years and you've never detoured my way?" says Cy.

"I was always on a run, I couldn't." says Mitch.

"All right. I accept that." says Cy.

"Good. You're a very forgiving person." says Mitch.

"I know that." says Cy.

"Sometimes, Mac, you do remind me of your mother. She was a very forgiving person at times." says Mitch.

"Except when something stuck with her." says Cy.

"Is something stuck with you?" asks Mitch.

"I told you, nothing at all." says Cy.

"There must something buggin' ya this much." says Mitch.

"Just drink your beer." says Cy.

"If you say so." says Mitch.

Back at the police station, Stacy is finishing her testimony to Special Investigator Mason. As Stacy leaves the office, Officer Grace, Renee, and Chief McIntyre are standing around a desk while Polly and Thomas have moved to a corner of the room.

"You done with Stacy?" asks Chief McIntyre.

"I believe that with Ms. Castle's testimony, along with the testimonies of Ms. Wesner, the three goons of Mr. Turnan, and Turnan's own testimony, I think I can make a case." says Mr. Mason.

"That's great." says Renee.

"I can't believe what he did before he came here." says Officer Grace.

"He was running a pretty good racket and I think we can attach him to a unsolved murder." says Mr. Mason.

"That's interesting." says Polly, walking up to the desk.

"To think, we wouldn't have him if it wasn't for that Scott character and from the testimonies I've gathered, he risked life and limb to bring Turnan to justice." says Mr. Mason.

"Cy has a heart of gold, even if it is misplaced at times." says Polly.

"What do you mean?" asks Mr. Mason.

"Risking life for two sinners. I mean, you two are good people, but if you're better, you'd abandoned this business." says Polly.

"Miss McIntyre, what these two do is not important to us. What is important is that we brought a criminal to justice." says Mr. Mason.

"Something, Polly, two wrongs do make a right." says Thomas, walking his way over.

"Maybe. Cy is a trustworthy person." says Polly.

"And this city should thank him." says Mr. Mason.

"Would you like to collect your prisoner?" asks Chief McIntyre.

"I've sent for a special wagon. It'll been here any time now." says Mr. Mason.

"Maybe I should re-think my opinion of Cy." says Polly.

"Perhaps you should. After all, he did risk his life." says Thomas.

"How should I think?" asks Polly.

"Think about his mother and how she taught him right from wrong." says Thomas.

"How does that help?" asks Polly.

"What felt wrong to him enough to help?" asks Thomas.

"Chief McIntyre, the mayor's office will hear of Mr. Scott's efforts, I'll make sure of that." says Mr. Mason.

"I'm sure our mayor will honor him enough." says Chief McIntyre.

"If his mother were still alive, her praise would be enough for him." says Polly.

Just then, a honking noise is heard from outside.

"That must be the transport. Chief McIntyre... " says Mr. Mason.

"I'll get him." says Chief McIntyre, who then makes his way over to the jail cell room.

"Do I have to go?" asks Stacy.

"No, but we'll need you for the trial." says Mr. Mason.

"When will that be?" asks Stacy.

"We'll need some time to set up. We'll let you know." says Mr. Mason.

"Will you call Cy as a witness?" asks Polly.

"We might, depends on what we need." says Mr. Mason.

"Cy's standing in the world is growing." says Thomas.

"It must be. I can't recall when Cy was at the center of things." says Officer Grace.

"He deserves a medal, that's for sure." says Thomas.

"He'll probably get one." says Officer Grace.

"I wonder what plans he now has for my career?" asks Polly.

"Okay, Mr. Turnan, here you go." says Chief McIntyre as he walks out of the jail cell room with Al.

"Mr. Mason?" asks one of two guards as they enter the building.

"There's your prisoner." says Mr. Mason, pointing at Al.

"Come on, Mr. Turnan." says the other guard as they take Al from Chief McIntyre.

"I'll come with you." says Mr. Mason as he, the guards, and Al leave the building.

"It's all over." says Chief McIntyre.

"For now." says Officer Grace.

"Now, back to work." says Chief McIntyre as he retreats back in his office.

"Come on now, Polly, you heard what the man said." says Thomas.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Next week, one serial ends and another begins, where a course of events occurs that will change the lives of all involved, but then again, it's just life in Hyperion, as we all know it.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Episode 98

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Only 2 more to go until the 100th episode!

Today's episode: "The Temporary Parent", Part 2

Yesterday, we began our tenth serial of the series with a visit to the local library and storytime with Darlene, who has become the hero in the eyes of the children of Hyperion.  Cy, still stewing over his father's departure the day before, came for a visit and notices the attention she gives those she once shunned as a human iceberg.
As we begin today, a subject swirls in Darlene's mind...

------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Cy, can I confide in you?" asks Darlene.

"I'm sure you can." says Cy.

"I've been reading to the kids for a while, and helping them." says Darlene.

"I know that." says Cy.

"And it's awakened some feelings in me." says Darlene.

"I get it. Your long-domant material instincts are alive and well." says Cy.

"I just wanna have a kid of my own." says Darlene.

"It would be a good step in your return to humanity to raise a child." says Cy.

"I just I could have one." says Darlene.

"Well, there are three ways to get one. One, you can go the usual nine months, either by man or sperm donor." says Cy.

"What's the second way?" asks Darlene.

"Just take one, and if you go that way, I'll alert Officer Grace to a children count in case one turns up missing." says Cy.

"And the third one?" asks Darlene.

"Adopt." says Cy.

"But I wanna a baby to hold in my arms." says Darlene.

"It's rare that an adoption agency has a child under six months of age." says Cy.

"But then what is a mother to do?" asks Darlene.

"You're not a mother yet, Darlene." says Cy.

"One day, I will be." says Darlene.

"Why the rush to motherhood?" asks Cy.

"Because I'm 30 and I have no children." says Darlene.

"My mother was your age when she had me." says Cy.

"And only you. Remember that, Cy." says Darlene.

"How many offspring are we talking about here?" asks Cy.

"A nice-sized brood. About three or four." says Darlene.

"Don't worry. If you stick with Thomas, I'm sure he can help you with that." says Cy.

"Me and Thomas haven't really seen each other for a while now." says Darlene.

"All relationships go through a cooling-off period. It's normal." says Cy.

"Has it happened to you and Joanne yet?" asks Darlene.

"We had a touch of it, but me and her are in it for the long haul, it seems." says Cy.

"You sound like your father." says Darlene.

"Long haul means more than my father." says Cy.

"Tell me you never felt the urge to roam." says Darlene.

"Maybe once, but I quietly buried it." says Cy.

"You talk about your mother and never your father. I feel something wrong with that." says Darlene.

"Just because you want kids doesn't mean you can adopt me as yours." says Cy.

"I never even got to see him this time and show him the melted me." says Darlene.

"Maybe he'll head back this way soon, but I doubt that." says Cy.

"You and your father should get along better. To me, you seem alike." says Darlene.

"I'm not like him in the least. I stay in one place." says Cy.

"Then why all the talk about Polly and her career. Sounds like you're looking for an excuse to leave." says Darlene.

"Perhaps I better leave here." says Cy.

"See you around... Mitch." says Darlene as Cy makes his leave.

Down at the police station, Officer Grace is sitted at a desk as she fills out some paperwork. Meanwhile, Officer Timmy walks over to where the desk is, adjusting his belt as he walks.

"What a day, I say." says Officer Timmy.

"Right that you are." says Officer Grace.

"The sun is out and about." says Officer Timmy.

"I can see it." says Officer Grace.

"Just another day in the city." says Officer Grace.

"Trying to be a poet, Officer Timmy?" asks Officer Grace.

"Very funny. It's our job to keep an eye out for crime." says Officer Timmy.

"Seems to be very calm today." says Officer Grace.

"Just a few days ago, we learned that a dangerous man had taken up residence in our town." says Officer Timmy.

"But Cy put a stop to that." says Officer Grace.

"I hear you're dating one of his co-workers." says Officer Timmy.

"His name is Phil." says Officer Grace.

"Is he a shady character?" asks Officer Timmy.

"He's a very nice man." says Officer Grace.

"Well, be careful, he might be a shady character." says Officer Timmy.

"With you, I can see Cy's paranoia about cops." says Officer Grace.

"The way he puts cops is the way a cop should be. They shouldn't let their feelings cloud their judgement, not for a second." says Officer Timmy.

"That paranoia comes from cops like that roaming the streets of New York City." says Officer Grace.

"Trust in cops should be kept as much as trust in a deity." says Officer Timmy.

"I'll never be like that, and I hope to God I never see your side of the coin." says Officer Grace.

"What side of the coin?" asks Officer Timmy.

"The unfeeling, by-the-book cop that cares more about the law than the people. Cy has a name for it, 'Sergeant Friday Syndrome'." says Officer Grace.

"The day I care less about the law, may I be struck dead." says Officer Timmy.

"Then I better have you transferred." says Officer Grace.

"What for?" asks Officer Timmy.

"So you don't stink up the place when you die like that." says Officer Grace.
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, a discovery is made by Cy, which he involves Darlene, who involves Conrad, who involves... well, you'll get the picture soon enough.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Episode 94

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Only 6 episodes until the 100th episode!

Today's episode: "The Truck Driving Man", Part 5

Yesterday, Cy told Conrad of how his father's visit was starting to get to him, even though it had only been a day.  Conrad then told Cy to just grin and bear it.  However, the minute he got home, he found himself unable to let it roll, so he decided to take his father on a tour of the town.
As we begin, we head to downtown...

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Some time later, at the police station, Polly is mopping up a section of floor in the main office area as Thomas looks on, with a broom in his hands. He looks on with wide eyes.

"Enjoying my work today?" asks Polly.

"Same as every day." says Thomas.

"The day has been more than mopping." says Polly.

"I've noticed." says Thomas.

"Thank God they put him in jail. I was getting tense around him." says Polly.

"Me, too. He looked at you wrong a few times." says Thomas.

"How can you look at someone wrong?" asks Polly.

"You just can." says Thomas.

"That Cy has been a bad influence on you and the way you think." says Polly.

"What's wrong with my way of thinking?" asks Cy as he, Stacy, and Mitch enter the building.

"Nothing." says Polly.

"I'm here to give my statement to the special investigator." says Stacy.

"He's in with Renee, getting her statement." says Polly.

"Where?" asks Cy.

"In Chief McIntyre's office." says Polly.

"Who's the guy with you, Cy?" asks Thomas.

"He's my father, Mitch Jones." says Cy.

"This is your father?" asks Polly as she walks up to where he is standing.

"Long-haul trucker, my lady." says Mitch.

"So nice to meet you." says Polly.

"You have an interesting voice." says Mitch.

"I was born in West Virginia." says Polly.

"I'm from a little south of you, in Tennessee." says Mitch.

"Charmed." says Polly.

"I hope that will help." says Chief McIntyre as he, a man, Officer Grace, and Renee leave his office.

"I'm waiting for Ms. Castle's testimony." says the man.

"Hello, Chief." says Cy.

"Hello, Cy. I see you brought Stacy with you." says Chief McIntyre.

"She needed an escort." says Cy.

"This man here is Special Investigator Mason." says Chief McIntyre.

"Nice to meet you, Ms. Castle." says Mr. Mason.

"So, how are things in Paw Paw?" asks Cy.

"Mr. Mason isn't from Paw Paw." says Officer Grace.

"Then where is he from?" asks Stacy.

"He's from Kalamazoo." says Chief McIntyre.

"When Chief McIntyre here called Paw Paw yesterday on Mr. Turnan, they referred him to us because of his activities in our city." says Mr. Mason.

"And you came here to collect him." says Cy.

"Well put, Mr... " says Mr. Mason.

"Scott, Cy Scott." says Cy.

"Ms. Castle, if you please into the office, I shall take your statement." says Mr. Mason, making his way back to it.

"Excuse me, gentlemen." says Stacy as she goes into the office.

"Cy, who's the extra guy with you?" asks Officer Grace.

"This is my father, Mitch Jones, long-hauler. Dad, this is Grace Baker of the Hyperion Police Department and Phil's girlfriend." says Cy.

"Is she a good cop?" asks Mitch.

"A very good one, in skill and personality." says Cy.

"Long-hauler, as in truck driver?" asks Officer Grace.

"That's right." says Cy.

"Mr. Jones, nice to meet you." says Officer Grace.

"This is your father, Cy?" asks Chief McIntyre.

"And you must run this place?" asks Mitch.

"I do, and I'll make sure to be kind to you. Cy here is a very well-behaved citizen." says Chief McIntyre.

"I know that." says Mitch.

"Come on, Dad. We have some more business to get to." says Cy.

"All right, Mac." says Mitch as he and Cy leave the building.

"Nice man, Cy's father." says Officer Grace.

"And to think, he's never mentioned him before." says Polly.

Some time later, Cy and Mitch are walking into Tom's Place, where a late morning crowd has gathered. Cy and Mitch are spotted entering by Tom.

"Hello, Cy. Who's with ya?" says Tom.

"This is my father, Mitch Jones. He's a truck driver." says Cy.

"That's a fair number of my customers." says Tom.

"That's nice to know." says Mitch.

"Cy, what brings you to my place so early in the day?" asks Tom.

"It's about Polly." says Cy.

"Say, that was a great concert we had here Saturday night." says Tom.

"How would like more of those?" asks Cy.

"What do you mean?" asks Tom.

"I mean, I would like to arrange some weekly concerts here." says Cy.

"What an offer! How can I turn that down?" says Tom.

"They would start this Saturday." says Cy.

"Go right ahead. I would not deny my customers their favorite singer. I get requests every week to make her a regular feature here." says Tom.

"And now, she will be." says Cy.

"They'll be happy to hear that." says Tom.

"Mac, let's have a drink to celebrate." says Mitch as he sits down at the bar.

"I guess I could use a drink." says Cy.

"Tom, two beers here." says Mitch.

"Coming right up, and there's on the house." says Tom.

"The best rate I know." says Mitch.

"Don't I know it." says Cy.
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, a conversation starts between Mitch and Cy, and the aftermath of Cy's adventure becomes known to those involved.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Episode 93

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Only 7 episodes until the 100th episode!

Today's episode: "The Truck Driving Man", Part 4

Yesterday, Thomas and Polly take stock of Cy's adventure to save Stacy as they look upon the cuffed Al, with Thomas coming to Cy's defense for his actions.  Meanwhile, Cy's father Mitch parked his big rig in Cy's driveway as he waited for his son to come home, which he does.  As Cy lets Mitch into his home, he's worried about how his father will take Renee and Stacy.
As we begin, Mitch has met Renee and now, Stacy enters the picture...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

"The same, once again." says Mitch.

"Let me explain." says Cy.

"Hello, dear sir." says Stacy as she enters the living room.

"Stacy, this man here is Cy's father, Mitch Jones." says Renee.

"Are you the owner of that big rig outside?" asks Stacy.

"That's mine all right." says Mitch.

"A truck driver?" asks Stacy.

"A long-hauler. Been that way since 1970, cruising the highways and the byways of this here great country." says Mitch.

"How interesting." says Stacy.

"Dad, let me tell you." says Cy.

"Is Stacy another boarder?" asks Mitch.

"No, she's... Renee's girlfriend." says Cy.

"In what way?" asks Mitch.

"The romantic way." says Cy.

"Well, that doesn't bother me." says Mitch.

"I thought you would flip your lid." says Cy.

"Have you forgotten what I am? I'm a trucker, and on the road, there is no discrimination, except to the police." says Mitch.

"Then are you in for a surprise when you really meet Phil." says Cy.

"I don't follow you." says Mitch.

"I'll leave it to Phil." says Cy.

"I wanna hear about your time on the road." says Stacy.

"I'll be glad to impart my life to your ears." says Mitch as he makes his way to the dining room, with Stacy and Renee following behind.

The next day, Cy is making his way to the green room. When he arrives, he finds only Conrad, playing a round of pinball.

"Conrad, I need to talk to you." says Cy.

"Please do." says Conrad, still playing.

"My father is making his presence very well-known." says Cy.

"How so?" asks Conrad.

"He met my boarder and her lover." says Cy.

"How'd he take it?" asks Conrad.

"I forgot how open-mined he was. Anyway, he then spent the day telling them about his life on the road." says Cy.

"He is always ready to do that." says Conrad.

"Conrad, I need something to do." says Cy.

"What can you do?" asks Conrad.

"I have no idea." says Cy.

"Me, neither. Why don't we talk about something else?" says Conrad.

"Fine with me." says Cy.

"I wanna talk about Polly's concert last Saturday. It was great." says Conrad.

"Your banjo was superb." says Cy.

"I wonder when the next show is." says Conrad.

"Beats me." says Cy.

"I hope it's soon. I wanna know what else you're gonna put in the band." says Phil as he enters the room.

"Knowing Cy, his mandolin is next." says Conrad.

"That's it. I know what to do." says Cy.

"With what?" asks Phil.

"The time he wants to spend away from his father." says Conrad.

"Remember the reason I put Conrad in the band in the first place?" asks Cy.

"So you could needed to hear a bigger sound." says Conrad.

"Why the bigger sound?" asks Cy.

"Because you wanted to make a demo album." says Conrad.

"And I think it's time we make it." says Cy.

"Check your hairline, Cy." says Conrad.

"Why do you say that?" asks Cy.

"I think you know why." says Conrad.

"It's nothing like that at all." says Cy.

"Why don't you spend more time with your father, Cy?" asks Phil.

"Because those two are estranged." says Conrad.

"Why can't a father and son ever get along?" asks Phil.

"There's nothing wrong between me and my father." says Cy.

"Then spend more time with him." says Conrad.

"I guess I can hold on the demo album until I've increased the sound some more. I'll talk to Tom about a few more Saturday concerts." says Cy.

"Good idea, and you can show your father around Hyperion." says Conrad.

"If you say so." says Cy.

Later that morning, Cy makes his way inside his home. As he does, he hears the sound of Mitch's voice in the dining room, talking to Stacy.

"I was making my way up a steep incline. In those days, the CB was a trucker's best friend, and there had been reports of smokies and traps in the region, so I carefully made my turn as I rounded the corner." says Mitch.

"Hello, dad." says Cy.

"Well, Mac. How was your show?" says Mitch.

"Just another Tuesday on the air." says Cy.

"That's great. I was just telling Stacy here about the time I made my way from Roanoke to Parkersburg." says Mitch.

"That's a great tale. Listen, dad, I decided something." says Cy.

"Well, what is it, Mac?" asks Mitch.

"I've decided that today, I'm gonna take you on a tour of Hyperion." says Cy.

"That's a great idea. I've been waiting for you to do that." says Mitch.

"That's helpful. I've make a statement down at the police station. Someone from Paw Paw." says Stacy.

"Renee's there now." says Mitch.

"Of course. I believe the county is gonna throw their weight at Al." says Cy.

"The things he did to me and to others." says Stacy.

"Let me take you downtown, then I'll take dad on the tour." says Cy.

"Good idea." says Mitch.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Tomorrow, Mitch has his tour of the downtown area, including a stop at the police station and a drink at Tom's Place.  What a tour!
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
A production of WGN Chicago.  All rights reserved.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Episode 92

The Mutual Broadcasting System brings you another episode of Life in Hyperion.

Today's episode: "The Truck Driving Man", Part 3

Yesterday, Cy's father, Mitch Jones, awakened from his sleep and stepped out from his truck to greet the gang gathered around it.  All gave him a warm welcome, except Cy, who proceeded to give the cold shoulder to his own father, which amazed Phil, who wondered how a son could act this, considering the lengths he go to for his mother.
As we begin, Phil has expressed in allowing everyone else to meet Mitch, who Cy feels isn't a fit anywhere.  We now head across town...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Down at the police station, Al sits in a chair, his hands hand-cuffed behind him, as Thomas and Polly look on at the sight before them.

"I can't believe what I'm seeing." says Polly.

"Believe it." says Thomas.

"He actually did what he say he'd do." says Polly.

"Cy never really lies." says Thomas.

"I thought he was." says Polly.

"When Cy lies, it's called acting." says Thomas.

"Another trait from his mother." says Polly.

"After what he did, he's the world's greatest." says Thomas.

"Don't say that. He was just lucky." says Polly.

"You heard that guy's story. Cy had him in a virtual staring contest for five hours." says Thomas.

"He could have been shot." says Polly.

"Not Cy. He managed to get the better of that guy." says Thomas.

"Al could have shot him." says Polly.

"Cy knew he wouldn't, because I know that when faced with a gun, you wait for a reason to shoot." says Thomas.

"Just having a gun pointed at you is reason enough." says Polly.

"The reason you wait for is when it stops being murder and starts being self-defense." says Thomas.

"That's a reason?" asks Polly.

"I know because I can understand his thought process." says Thomas.

"Probably from all that time spent living with Cy. Now, he has two sinners in his home." says Polly.

"They're not sinners. They're in love." says Thomas.

"It's not love in my book." says Polly.

"It is in Cy's book." says Thomas.

"His mother wrote it for him." says Polly.

"Polly, he is his own person." says Thomas.

"I guess so. He's gone out of his way to begin a music career for me." says Polly.

"That's true. I mean, he's see potential in you that no one else has really seen." says Thomas.

"Did you see it?" asks Polly.

"The moment I first heard you sing, I heard the potential." says Thomas.

"Anything else?" asks Polly.

"What do you mean by that?" asks Thomas.

"I've seen the way you look at me sometimes." says Polly.

"What kind of look are you looking at?" asks Thomas.

"A certain look, with a feeling behind it." says Polly.

"What kind of feeling would that be?" asks Thomas.

"I think you know, Thomas." says Polly.

"Maybe once or twice, I looked at you that way." says Thomas.

"Maybe I'll see it again." says Polly.

"Maybe today." says Thomas.

"I can hear you over here." says Officer Grace as she walks over to where Thomas and Polly are standing.

"We were just talking." says Polly.

"Sounds to me more than talking." says Officer Grace.

"What did it sound like to you?" asks Thomas.

"The sound of Cupid's arrow in the air hitting something." says Officer Grace, who then walks away.

Later that morning, Cy is making his way home as he walks up to the driveway of his home. Already parked in it is Mitch's big rig, which sticks out among the more natural markers in the neighborhood. Mitch is leaning up against the truck, looking around.

"Hello, Mac." says Mitch as Cy walks up.

"Hello, dad. What are you doing outside the house?" says Cy.

"I was waiting for you to show up and let me inside." says Mitch.

"That's very kind of you." says Cy as he continues to make his way to the front door, now with Mitch following behind.

"I didn't wanna ruin anything inside." says Mitch.

"Nothing much inside, although I should tell you about a few things." says Cy as he reaches the front door.

"Spill 'em, Mac." says Mitch.

"Well, I've recently got a dog." says Cy as he unlocks the front door.

"That's nice. A dog to keep you company." says Mitch.

"That's not all that's keeping me company." says Cy as he opens the door.

"What else is keeping you company?" asks Mitch as he and Cy walk inside the house.

"I think I should let you find out yourself." says Cy as he closes the door.

"Suit yourself." says Mitch.

"I think the first thing you should see is what on the mantle." says Cy, pointing towards it.

"Thanks, son. I think I should see how Debralee is doing." says Mitch as he makes his way up to the mantle.

"She's doing fine." says Cy.

"I still can't believe that I'm still here and she isn't." says Mitch.

"Believe it." says Cy.

"'One of these days, Mitch, you're gonna make a bad turn.' she once said to me." says Mitch.

"'Not with my rig.' That's what you said about that." says Cy.

"You remembered that." says Mitch.

"It was said during one of your many goodbyes." says Cy.

"Cy?" says a voice from the bedroom.

"Is that a woman's voice I hear?" asks Mitch as he makes his way back over to where Cy is standing.

"That's another thing keeping me company." says Cy.

"Who is that man?" asks Renee as she enters the living room.

"The same to you." says Mitch.

"This is Renee Wesner, my boarder." says Cy.

"Where does she sleep?" asks Mitch.

"In the bedroom." says Cy.

"Then where do you sleep, Mac?" asks Mitch.

"In that easy chair." says Cy.

"Why?" asks Mitch.

"I have no idea." says Cy.

"Well, nice to meet you, Renee." says Mitch.

"Cy, who is this man?" asks Renee.

"This is my father, Mitch Jones." says Cy.

"Nice to meet you." says Mitch.

"Who is that?" asks another voice.

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Tomorrow, Mitch meets Stacy, and Cy waits for his father's reaction, which is one Cy himself, the judge of human character, did not expect.
 
Join us, won't you?
Yours truly, John Maxwell.
 
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