SANTA CLARITA
A film screenplay by
Dennis Posadas
Updated 17 August 2026
© Dennis Posadas 2021
FADE IN:
TITLE OVER BLACK: SANTA CLARITA
OPENING MUSIC
INT. COMPANY CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS BOARDROOM - DAY
The men in their gray suits sit in their appointed black leather seats in the boardroom.
Before they adjourn CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH speaks about the last item on the agenda.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
As you know our Company has been in existence as a food and beverage company for the last thirty years. Beer, coffee, snacks, and soft drinks have been our major revenue drivers.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
A testament to your leadership. We now have factories in thirty-four countries worldwide, from the previous companies that we’ve acquired.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
I propose that we lead in cutting carbon emissions from our operations globally.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
Globally?
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
Yes. Not just in the typical token fashion but also with the core processes such as our factory boilers that use coal in many places.
Most of the Board nod their heads in agreement. A few look skeptical.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
We need to be first. First is the only rank that counts.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
What does our CEO LESTER REEVES think of that?
The others immediately look to CEO LESTER REEVES, who seems surprised by the question. He looks ill at ease.
CEO LESTER REEVES
I am not sure. It may be difficult with our factory in Santa Clarita.
CEO LESTER REEVES glances around, looking at the reactions of CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH and DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN. The Chairman does not seem pleased.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
Many global companies have already decided to cut carbon for the next few years. We need to make it happen next year.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Too expensive. Impractical I think.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
It is not impossible! It is simply a matter of making the decision to not postpone it any further.
There is one Board member, ROBERTO CORRALEZ, who seems skeptical.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Is this more of that fancy Save the World talk?
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
No. In our strategic objectives it is clear that our Company will not harm the environment.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Are we just being altruistic here?
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
Not at all. We just want to show others we are leaders in cutting climate change and air pollution.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
I hope there is some business logic in there somewhere.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
We are following what many companies are now doing. But I want us to lead and be more than par for the course.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
I have my doubts.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
Like what?
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Like replacing all the fossil fuels we use in the plant? Impossible!
CEO LESTER REEVES
How do we produce steam without bunker oil or coal? Electricity is just too expensive.
The other Board Directors squirm in their seats. ROBERTO CORRALEZ has always been their thorn on this issue of carbon emissions reduction.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
We will do whatever it takes. But I realize we need to engineer this carefully.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Easier said than done.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
If we have to do it with solar, wind, biomass, micro-hydro, waste-to-energy, or whatever means necessary, we will explore it.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
I’ve said my piece. Not a good idea.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
Let’s take a vote. All those in favor, say Aye.
The Board, despite the misgivings of ROBERTO CORRALEZ, bypasses his objection. All of them say aye, except ROBERTO CORRALEZ.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
(to CEO LESTER REEVES)
You have your marching orders.
CEO LESTER REEVES
I will see what I can do.
CEO LESTER REEVES looks at ROBERTO CORRALEZ. ROBERTO CORRALEZ looks away.
CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH
As CEO, you’ll make this happen. Or you can look for another job. (BEAT) We can adjourn for now.
Eager to go home, everyone starts to rise up, and start leaving the Boardroom. They exit except ROBERTO CORRALEZ and CEO LESTER REEVES.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Do you need a lift to your hotel?
ROBERTO CORRALEZ approaches him. ROBERTO CORRALEZ has taken off his bespoke gray suit jacket and his sleeves are now folded. He looks tired as he repeatedly massages his thumb and forefinger on his forehead.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Yes, thank you. I’m staying at a hotel downtown.
CEO LESTER REEVES
I’ll take you there.
Both leave the conference room.
INT. CAR – NIGHT
CEO LESTER REEVES is driving ROBERTO CORRALEZ back to his hotel.
CEO LESTER REEVES
How should I handle this?
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
This is not good for our situation. We need a diversion.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Diversion?
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
We need a way to delay this.
CEO LESTER REEVES
How?
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
We need a decoy. Someone who we can use to make it appear that things are moving forward, but will be our unknowing pawn in delaying this plan.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Okay. Understood.
The car arrives at the hotel. ROBERTO CORRALEZ nods and gets off.
INT. COMPANY CEO LESTER REEVES OFFICE - DAY
CEO LESTER REEVES is seated in his office, on the phone with his secretary.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Ann, is he here? (BEAT) Ok send him in.
He gets a resume from a pile on his desk and reads it. BILL FRANCISCO enters.
BILL FRANCISCO
Hi I’m BILL FRANCISCO.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Hi Bill. Have a seat.
BILL FRANCISCO and CEO LESTER REEVES take their seats.
CEO LESTER REEVES
The Board recommended some names to me for consideration. Out of that list, I personally picked you.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m flattered.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Your track record with the Company shows that you can produce results.
BILL FRANCISCO
Thank you.
CEO LESTER REEVES
The Chairman and the Directors believe in you.
BILL FRANCISCO
That’s good to hear. So what is this assignment about?
CEO LESTER REEVES stands up and looks outside, then looks back at BILL FRANCISCO.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Your mission is to convert our manufacturing plants in the island of Santa Clarita to run 100% on renewable energy and do it in six months.
BILL FRANCISCO
Everything on renewables? All?
CEO LESTER REEVES
Solar, wind, micro-hydro, biomass. It doesn’t matter how, as long as we power all our factories with renewable energy.
BILL FRANCISCO
How does Santa Clarita factor into all of this?
CEO LESTER REEVES
They still use coal in their operations. Your job will be to find a way to replace everything there with renewables.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’ll think about it.
CEO LESTER REEVES
It won’t be easy.
CEO LESTER REEVES looks at BILL FRANCISCO. He simply nods his head.
CEO LESTER REEVES
Can you go to Santa Clarita to make this happen?
BILL FRANCISCO
I hope you’ll understand if I think about this carefully. It does involve travel to a distant place for an extended period.
CEO LESTER REEVES
It’s not an easy task.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m a family man you know, and I’m a bit hesitant to disappear again from their lives after a lot of time overseas.
CEO LESTER REEVES
You remember what happened to Harry Ford right? He was hesitant to accept an assignment, and so the Board just let him go.
BILL FRANCISCO
I know the Company culture. Either you obey or pack your bags.
CEO LESTER REEVES
You understand. Good.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay, But I need to bring the wife and kid with me. I can’t budge on that.
CEO LESTER REEVES
That sounds reasonable enough. Tell your wife and son you’ll be there for at least six months.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well I guess I better go ahead and make preparations. Thank you sir for this opportunity.
BILL FRANCISCO stands up, shakes CEO LESTER REEVES’s hand, then exits. CEO LESTER REEVES also stands up, walks to the window and looks outside.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(to himself)
No. Thank you.
INT. HOTEL FRONT DESK - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO is with his wife KATHYRN FRANCISCO and his bookish college age son GEORGE FRANCISCO at the hotel lobby. The receptionist is checking them in.
KATHYRN FRANCISCO
Do you think you can pull this off?
BILL FRANCISCO holds his wife’s hand.
BILL FRANCISCO
I have it all figured out.
His face shows doubt however. The baggage boy arrives and brings them, along with their bags, to the reception area.
BILL FRANCISCO
That was a pretty scenic ride going to your hotel.
VALET
Thank you sir. Welcome to Santa Clarita hotel. We will take your bags to your room.
BILL FRANCISCO
Sounds good.
VALET
We have some complimentary drinks by the poolside. Your room is 1218.
EXT. HOTEL POOLSIDE - DAY
A server brings along some refreshments. The three take their seats at a poolside table with a parasol.
KATHYRN FRANCISCO
I could get used to this.
BILL FRANCISCO
(Laughing)
Don’t. We’ll need to go home eventually.
INT. FACTORY CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO enters. The rest of the factory team are already there in the conference room.
JACK PEREZ
I’m JACK PEREZ, the factory manager. I hope your flight and hotel accommodations were okay.
BILL FRANCISCO
It was. Pleased to meet you.
JACK PEREZ
We have some coffee and pastries here if you want some.
BILL FRANCISCO
Thanks! I’m glad I took this assignment.
JACK PEREZ
You’ll enjoy it here.
BILL FRANCISCO
I noticed there are a lot of renewable energy sources that can be tapped here.
BILL FRANCISCO helps himself to a cup of coffee that is heating in a pot and places a teaspoon of cream and sugar.
JACK PEREZ
True. There’s biomass from the agricultural wastes, the strong wind breeze, consistent sunshine, and several rivers and streams that can be tapped for hydro power. All can be used for our two factories here.
BILL FRANCISCO
Yes. I did hear you do have two factories here.
JACK PEREZ
The other one is around a hundred miles in that direction. But no need to convert that. We will be shutting it down soon. Too old.
Jack points in the direction just slightly outside the field of view of their window.
JACK PEREZ
Too bad you won’t get a chance to see it. It’s a small group of hills, but once you are on them, the views can be spectacular.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well, I do hope I’ll get the chance to see those sometime. Though no need right now.
They all take their seats.
JACK PEREZ
Okay let’s call this meeting to order. As you have probably heard, BILL FRANCISCO was sent over by Corporate HQ to convert the factory to run on 100% renewable energy.
BILL FRANCISCO
Thanks. Some of that will probably be easy, like installing solar panels on the roof. Some will be hard, such as finding out how to replace our fossil fuel boilers, which I know is using coal here.
JACK PEREZ
There is a lot of renewable energy potential in the island that we can tap for this plant. But it has to make sense in the local context.
BILL FRANCISCO
The Board has said it is a major strategic thrust for us.
JACK PEREZ
Don’t worry. We just need to go through the engineering.
BILL FRANCISCO
What do you mean?
JACK PEREZ
I mean, words like 100% renewable energy can easily be thrown around as mantras. But when it comes to actually doing it, there is a lot of engineering work and planning involved. Plus money as well. Often lots of it.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well I look forward to the guided tour.
JACK PEREZ
After you’ve finished your coffee, you can wear these safety glasses, safety shoes, earplugs and hard hat and we can start our tour around the plant.
They all don their safety glasses, safety shoes and hard hats. Then they walk around .
BILL FRANCISCO
(pointing up)
Those old lights, will they be replaced in a few months with LED ones? Like you said, we can have solar panels on the roof, so that’s not much of an issue. In fact, we have included that in our capital forecast for next year.
They arrive at the boilers, which is quite noisy. JACK PEREZ signals for them to walk outside. There they remove their earplugs.
JACK PEREZ
Sorry for the noise, but that’s really the way it is here. These boilers are built to last almost forever with proper maintenance.
BILL FRANCISCO
Looks like it.
JACK PEREZ
The efficiency isn’t as good as the newer boilers. But these things still work, and we’re trying to keep our costs low.
BILL FRANCISCO
We can do it right? Transition to renewable energy for all aspects of operations?
JACK PEREZ
Well, if the Company will approve a new capital expenditure for a new biomass boiler, maybe.
BILL FRANCISCO
Of course. Write it up in your capex budget.
JACK PEREZ
But we’d have to test it first, or ideally see it at work elsewhere. We don’t just change a boiler. There are many technical issues which need to be settled first.
The weather outside is sunny and the moisture is high, prompting each of them to take a drink at a nearby drinking fountain.
JACK PEREZ
For example, the steam pressure needs to be at the right temperature and pressure to run the steam turbine generators. So it’s not as simple as saying we need to replace a coal boiler with a biomass one.
The group continues their way around the plant. JACK PEREZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ exit.
One of the junior female engineers, JOANNE CABRERA, enters. She is wearing her overalls and hard hat and approaches BILL FRANCISCO.
JOANNE CABRERA
I’m JOANNE CABRERA, one of the junior engineers here.
BILL FRANCISCO
Nice to meet you. I’m BILL FRANCISCO.
JOANNE CABRERA
Hope you’re enjoying the guided tour. What’s the purpose of your visit?
They shake hands.
BILL FRANCISCO
The Board and CEO LESTER REEVES want your plant to transition to renewable energy at the soonest possible time. Including this boiler.
JOANNE CABRERA
Good luck with that BILL FRANCISCO.
BILL FRANCISCO
I expect some resistance from management here, but this is now the official corporate direction.
They pass by some parts of the factory.
BILL FRANCISCO
The Company wants to be at the forefront in terms of low carbon emissions. We need to replace this with maybe biomass or other ways to generate steam.
JOANNE CABRERA
We need a good source of heat, a lot of it, which for now means coal.
BILL FRANCISCO
Uh huh. I’m not saying I understand all the issues yet.
JOANNE CABRERA
We also need to clean up the harmful emissions. It’s a pain. Plus we need to dispose of the coal ash properly.
BILL FRANCISCO
It would be good to convert these boilers to use biomass. Biomass is a renewable resource.
JOANNE CABRERA
Technically it’s doable. There’s a lot of sugarcane waste. The farmers just burn it openly.
BILL FRANCISCO
Understood.
JOANNE CABRERA
We will need a new boiler though. Our coal boiler is only for coal. It will not work for biomass.
BILL FRANCISCO
I know it’s a major capital expense.
JOANNE CABRERA
The problem is the supply of biomass.
BILL FRANCISCO
What do you mean?
JOANNE CABRERA
Legally, the farmers own the biomass waste. We just need to do a careful audit of the amount available so we don’t run out of fuel for a biomass boiler if we do shift to it.
BILL FRANCISCO
Anything else I need to know about biomass?
JOANNE CABRERA
Yeah well, another benefit will be less air pollution from farmers burning their agricultural wastes as we would pay them instead for their biomass waste.
BILL FRANCISCO
Sounds good.
JOANNE CABRERA
Fewer health issues. Plus we turn their waste into a profit making business. For the farmers.
BILL FRANCISCO
So I guess that settles it. We need to convert these boilers to biomass types.
JOANNE CABRERA
Ah well.
BILL FRANCISCO
Hmm, why?
JOANNE CABRERA
Well. (She looks around first) JACK PEREZ and especially RAMON MAYAGUEZ will probably give all types of excuses as to why renewable energy cannot work here.
BILL FRANCISCO
Why would they?
JOANNE CABRERA
The senior plant managers have no appetite for change before they retire.
BILL FRANCISCO
Would you be interested in driving the renewable energy goal here?
JOANNE CABRERA
I’m just a junior engineer here. But yeah I am interested.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well right now I’d say you’re on top of my list. Anything else to consider?
JOANNE CABRERA
Then there are also other considerations.
BILL FRANCISCO
Such as?
Suddenly JACK PEREZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ enter back in from their smoking break.
JOANNE CABRERA
We can discuss it some other time.
She looks ruffled. RAMON MAYAGUEZ looks at her as if wondering what she had told BILL FRANCISCO. BILL FRANCISCO could sense some tension between the two and wonders what she is trying to tell him.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay. We’ll just talk again. Thanks.
JOANNE CABRERA just nods. She seems uncomfortable discussing the topic with BILL FRANCISCO as RAMON MAYAGUEZ is there. BILL FRANCISCO wonders why.
They leave.
INT. LIVING ROOM – DAY
ROBERTO CORRALEZ paces across the marble covered floor of the nice house. RAMON MAYAGUEZ is seated on the living room sofa..
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Are there going to be problems? Is our coal supply contract safe?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
There will be no issues Uncle.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Make sure.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
He will never even see or get a whiff of that contract. Our finance manager keeps it hidden away.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ gets his bottle of scotch from the mahogany desk, pours each of them a glass, and gives one to RAMON MAYAGUEZ. RAMON MAYAGUEZ remains seated on the brown leather sofa and starts sipping his scotch.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
That payoff to the last auditor cost us a lot. Try to divert this BILL FRANCISCO’s attention from our contract.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
I will.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Maybe try to get JACK PEREZ to throw him a few technical objections here and there.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
I can also mislead him, but there is nothing else I could do to influence him.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Okay.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
You really have a nice place Uncle. I wonder when I can have my own place like this.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ stands up and walks towards the picture window. He looks outside.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
You should have stayed with your rich father at the sugar mill. Maybe your house would even be bigger than this.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Maybe Uncle.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
But you insisted that you can make it on your own. Why did you?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
You know why. I don’t want to be in his shadow.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Anyway we have this coal contract to help us make some extra money. Eventually, you’ll get what you want.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Yes Uncle, I’ve thought about that many times.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ’s peroxide blonde trophy wife ANNA ESTELA steps down from the stairs, dressed in a black gown. She takes hold of her husband ROBERTO CORRALEZ’s arm.
Both of them look at each other with suspicion, but RAMON MAYAGUEZ decides to avert his gaze to avoid provoking a fight.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ and ANNA ESTELA approach RAMON MAYAGUEZ.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
We have to go to a party. You’re free to stay if you wish. Take care of this problem quietly.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Okay Uncle.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
No need for your boy scout father to know about our little arrangement. He is too busy anyway dealing with the drop in world sugar prices and keeping his sugar mill afloat.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Yes Uncle.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
You know your old man is too straight and will never stand for this. But what can you do? You need the money, so just look the other way.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ says nothing.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Get rid of our meddling corporate visitor. He is a problem that we don’t need.
ANNA ESTELA is waiting near the entrance fixing her eyelashes near the front door mirror. She glances at RAMON MAYAGUEZ quickly, with a pout on her face.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Don’t worry. I will take care of it.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
You can show yourself out the door once you’re done.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ and ANNA ESTELA exit.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ finishes his scotch and placed the glass on the mahogany table across from him. The same servant picks it up and goes back to the kitchen.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ exits.
INT. FACTORY BOARDROOM - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO and JACK PEREZ enter.
BILL FRANCISCO
You know, I must admit that not all of your technical concerns can easily be dismissed.
JACK PEREZ
Yeah. If the Company agrees to the capital expenditure, there are some benefits to changing to a biomass one.
BILL FRANCISCO
Good, you agree.
JACK PEREZ
But budgets are always low.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well, I’m telling you now. Assign someone to look at it.
JACK PEREZ
We are always under pressure to meet cost targets.
BILL FRANCISCO
Maybe JOANNE CABRERA can take a look at it. She can help you draw up a justification and a forecast that headquarters can look at.
JACK PEREZ
Ok, I have to go run to another meeting.
JACK PEREZ leaves. JOANNE CABRERA enters.
BILL FRANCISCO
You looked a bit hesitant when we talked about implementing the biomass boiler. Is something bothering you?
JOANNE CABRERA
(looks around)
Ahh. We can’t talk here. Outside maybe. Not here.
BILL FRANCISCO
Oh okay. Can I ask you out to dinner with my family? Maybe there is a place we can talk?
JOANNE CABRERA looks around.
JOANNE CABRERA
Are you okay with Chinese food? Let’s meet at 6pm at the Tropical Palace downtown. The hotel concierge can tell you how to get there.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay. See you later.
INT. CHINESE RESTAURANT - NIGHT
BILL FRANCISCO, KATHYRN FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO are waiting to be seated in the Chinese restaurant. KATHRYN FRANCISCO scans the menu.
BILL FRANCISCO
Here it is, the Tropical Palace. Joanne was right, that was easy enough.
JOANNE CABRERA walks in.
JOANNE CABRERA
They’re with me.
BILL FRANCISCO
Kathryn, George, this is JOANNE CABRERA. JOANNE this is KATHYRN my wife and GEORGE my son.
The receptionist leads them to their round corner table, covered with a red tablecloth.
BILL FRANCISCO
This one’s on me.
JOANNE CABRERA
Of course, the boss always pays.
The waiter hands BILL FRANCISCO a menu. BILL FRANCISCO looks at the menu and after consulting with KATHYRN FRANCISCO, orders some Chinese dishes. They snack on the appetizers as they wait for their dishes to arrive.
BILL FRANCISCO
So what is it that you couldn’t tell me at the plant?
JOANNE CABRERA looks around, only sees the receptionist nearby.
JOANNE CABRERA
I’ve heard rumors of something funny going on with the coal supply contract. I can’t really say anything definite. That’s all I know.
BILL FRANCISCO
I understand. But I need more information.
JOANNE CABRERA
I’ll see what I can do sir.
The food arrives. They begin eating. The receptionist walks outside where she talks to a gentleman in a black suit. The man slips her some money. Then the MAN IN BLACK SUIT pulls out his phone and calls someone.
MAN IN BLACK SUIT
Yes sir. The receptionist heard them talking about a coal contract. (PAUSE) Yes sir. (PAUSE) Okay sir.
INT. JOANNE CABRERA’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
JOANNE CABRERA is awoken by the sound of her ringing phone at 5am.
JOANNE CABRERA
Who could be calling at this time?
She yawns and glances at her smartphone.
JOANNE CABRERA
(answers her phone)
Uhh hello sir?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ is on the other end.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(V.O.)
Good morning. Something urgent came up. I need you to drop everything and go to our other plant.
JOANNE CABRERA
But what about BILL FRANCISCO?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(V.O.)
Never mind him. I’ll take care of what he needs. Right now I need you to help their engineering team with their shutdown activities there.
JOANNE CABRERA
Well okay, sir. When do you need me to start this new assignment?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(V.O.)
Today. I’ve arranged for you to take one of the company cars to go there that leaves in about an hour. Pack for around four months.
JOANNE CABRERA
Four months?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(V.O.)
Don’t worry, your staff housing there has been set up. You’ll be there for a while. There are a lot of things to do there, and they’re short-handed.
JOANNE CABRERA
I understand sir.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(V.O.)
So be ready to leave by 730am. It’s a four to five-hour drive depending on road conditions as you know.
JOANNE CABRERA
Uhh sir, can I do it tomorrow? I need to brief Bill that you’re moving me there.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(V.O.)
No need. I’ll brief him when he gets to the plant later. Just pack your bags and go. The service vehicle leaves at 730am, so don’t be late.
JOANNE CABRERA
Ok sir.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ hangs up. JOANNE CABRERA is disturbed.
JOANNE CABRERA
(to herself)
Someone must have tipped him off. But who?
INT. FACTORY BOARDROOM - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO is seated in the conference room. RAMON MAYAGUEZ enters.
BILL FRANCISCO
Ramon, have you seen Joanne? No one seems to know where she is.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
JOANNE CABRERA? Oh, I sent her on assignment to the older plant on the other side of the island early this morning. She’s now on the way as there is much to do.
BILL FRANCISCO looks at RAMON MAYAGUEZ, unsure what to say.
BILL FRANCISCO
What? That’s a five-hour road trip isn’t it? I thought you and JACK PEREZ said that the plant is to be shut down?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Correct. There is a lot that needs to be done to shut it down properly. It will take her around four months to finish her assignment there.
BILL FRANCISCO
But will she return eventually?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Of course. Anyway we have a staff house there, so she doesn’t need to do the long commute, which I may add, has some rough roads.
BILL FRANCISCO
Ok. (BEAT). Thanks.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ walks away and exits.
BILL FRANCISCO dials his phone. JOANNE CABRERA is overalls and a hard hat. Her phone rings.
BILL FRANCISCO
Is it true what RAMON MAYAGUEZ said? You’re at the other plant?
JOANNE CABRERA
(V.O.)
Yes. I got the order this morning. The shuttle vehicle picked me up early. I just got here and just finished having lunch.
BILL FRANCISCO
Are you okay?
JOANNE CABRERA
(V.O.)
Yes I am. The timing’s funny, but it could also just be a coincidence. My assignment here will keep me really busy. Though I’m also wondering if RAMON MAYAGUEZ found out we talked.
BILL FRANCISCO
Really?
JOANNE CABRERA
(V.O.)
Maybe he has spies everywhere. In any case, good luck on your plan. Looks like I’m out of it, for now.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay. But I just feel like I lost my right arm. You were perfect for the role. Yeah like you, something smells fishy here timing wise.
JOANNE CABRERA
(V.O.)
Or it could be a real assignment.
BILL FRANCISCO
You’re right. It could just be a routine work related assignment that arrived at the wrong time.
JOANNE CABRERA
(V.O.)
I think both of us somehow doubt that.
BILL FRANCISCO
Let’s just play it by ear. Maybe there is still a way you can assist me remotely while you are there, even just to answer my questions by phone.
JOANNE CABRERA
(V.O.)
I’ll try. Okay I gotta go. I’m inspecting something here. Keep in touch.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay JOANNE CABRERA. I’ll call when needed. Thanks.
Both of them hang up.
INT. FACTORY BOARDROOM - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO, JACK PEREZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ are seated on a conference table. They are all reading a copy of a report prepared by BILL FRANCISCO.
BILL FRANCISCO
The factory could come up with a hybrid strategy that involves solar, wind, micro-hydro, biomass energy and energy efficiency.
JACK PEREZ
I’ve no objection to those.
BILL FRANCISCO
Good.
JACK PEREZ
Lighting and the other small loads, no problem. The solar panels can handle that.
BILL FRANCISCO
So the lighting is covered?
JACK PEREZ
Yes. The main challenges are the major heating loads like the boilers and the chillers.
BILL FRANCISCO
How do we fix that?
JACK PEREZ
We need something that acts like a baseload power source that’s on 24 hours, seven days a week.
BILL FRANCISCO
Yeah but aren’t there energy storage systems like batteries we can use? Or even like elevated lakes for energy storage?
JACK PEREZ
How many batteries are you going to need for that? What happens when those batteries hit their end of life? You’ll just have a massive toxic waste problem. Do you see an elevated lake nearby?
BILL FRANCISCO
Any other options?
JACK PEREZ
We need something that can replace our coal boilers on a twenty-four hour by seven-day basis if needed. At the moment, all those options won’t work.
BILL FRANCISCO
Let’s keep looking.
JACK PEREZ
Our big problem is really the boiler, as they used it to boil water for steam for drying and sterilization operations. That’s a lot of steam we need every day.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay.
JACK PEREZ
Coal is highly energy dense, which is why it has been so hard to replace them, granted that they have negative environmental impacts.
BILL FRANCISCO
What about biomass? This is an agricultural island. Farmers just burn their bagasse left and right as you know. Using biomass for the boiler will completely make this factory run on renewables.
JACK PEREZ
There’s definitely a lot of biomass on this island.
BILL FRANCISCO
Biomass is not imported, so there are no foreign currency risks and no danger of some type of fossil fuel supply market risk.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ turns his head and chuckles.
JACK PEREZ
That would be a significant technical change to the factory. Is the Company willing to pay for the capital expenditure?
BILL FRANCISCO
That’s the plan.
JACK PEREZ
The boiler is the heart of our factory. We can’t just change on a whim.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(Dismissive)
There are some calculations we need to make. Those take time and money and we would need to forecast for the next year at the earliest.
BILL FRANCISCO
Then do it. I’m authorized by the Board to communicate to you to do what we need to do.
BILL FRANCISCO stands up to pour himself a cup of coffee from the side table and comes back.
JACK PEREZ
If the engineering studies are good, will the Board approve the major capital expenditure forecast for this? This is a major change for the factory.
BILL FRANCISCO
They will. That’s our corporate direction.
JACK PEREZ
We will not be operating for at least a few weeks while this new system is installed, and the old system removed.
BILL FRANCISCO
I understand your concerns.
JACK PEREZ
That would be a significant capital expenditure, loss of revenue for at least a few weeks while we shift, and massive retraining for our technical staff.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ keeps swaying his head from side to side.
BILL FRANCISCO
Based on what the Board wants, yes I believe they will approve it.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
I do not understand this liberal agenda. What’s wrong with the current way we do things? This coal boiler still works well.
BILL FRANCISCO
This boiler is one of those difficult areas. But the Company saves money in the long run, and the local community – even the farmers – will benefit from using this local renewable biomass resource.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Climate change? Another liberal agenda. Coal has been powering our factory for years. We are running fine as it is!
BILL FRANCISCO
Anyway, it’s our corporate direction regardless of how you feel about it.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ stands up, extremely annoyed.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Sorry, I have to excuse myself. I just remembered I need to check on some supply contracts.
BILL FRANCISCO acknowledges him with a wave and continues discussing his proposal with JACK PEREZ.
BILL FRANCISCO
Aside from saving on foreign exchange, we do the environment a favor and prevent climate change.
JACK PEREZ
That’s all?
BILL FRANCISCO
Plus, we help the local farmers by buying their agricultural waste.
JACK PEREZ
That’s easy to talk about. But we need detailed engineering studies to make a move.
BILL FRANCISCO
Of course.
JACK PEREZ
It would have been nice if JOANNE CABRERA were here. She is the one with expertise on that.
BILL FRANCISCO
Yeah, I noticed it was convenient for RAMON MAYAGUEZ that JOANNE CABRERA had to be transferred to the other plant.
JACK PEREZ
Don’t worry. I’ll look for someone in my staff who can do the study. Anyway I have to go check out the factory. You can stay here if you want.
BILL FRANCISCO
Thanks Jack.
JACK PEREZ exits. BILL FRANCISCO dials his phone to make a call to the CEO LESTER REEVES.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
What’s up? How are things down there at Santa Clarita?
BILL FRANCISCO
So far okay but I’m getting a strong pushback from the deputy plant manager RAMON MAYAGUEZ.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
How so?
BILL FRANCISCO
He seems so adamant against renewables.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
Really? Maybe it just seems that way.
BILL FRANCISCO
Anyway, I need one of the junior employees who was suddenly assigned to the older plant on the other side of the island.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
The other plant?
BILL FRANCISCO
Yes, the one about to be closed. Her name is JOANNE CABRERA. Without her, I’m like a fish out of water here. That should be easy enough right? I mean, you are the CEO at corporate HQ.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
I’ll try. But there’s a unique cultural sensitivity thing that has developed over the years with that place. While the local partners know it is a foreign company, they normally decide on local issues.
BILL FRANCISCO
Which means?
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
As long as the plant works and ships products with revenue, that arrangement is fine with headquarters.
BILL FRANCISCO
But this won’t work without her! I’m being treated like an outsider here, and they are able to undermine me quietly.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
You can do this. Even without her.
BILL FRANCISCO
I need someone who can dial down even on the detailed engineering concerns. I need her with me, else we both fail on this thing.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
I’ll try. Look, if you think this task won’t be doable, then just say so. I’ll understand. Thanks for the update. Gotta run.
The hang-up click is audible. Bill is visibly disturbed.
EXT. HOTEL POOLSIDE - NIGHT
BILL FRANCISCO, KATHYRN FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO enter. They sit down at the poolside table to have dinner..
BILL FRANCISCO
Frankly I don’t understand the indecisiveness of CEO LESTER REEVES. He seems to be holding back. I wonder why.
KATHYRN FRANCISCO
Plus the circumstances of how she got transferred to that other plant seems suspicious. After we had dinner, she immediately got transferred.
BILL FRANCISCO
I need her here. Without her, we can’t do the serious studies needed to transition the factory.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Then why don’t you just bring her back Dad? After all, you were chartered to do whatever it takes right?
BILL FRANCISCO
Interesting idea son.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
How long is the drive? Five hours? We can go after breakfast tomorrow, be there after lunch, pick her up then be back here in the evening right?
BILL FRANCISCO suddenly has a sneaky smile on his face.
BILL FRANCISCO
I like it. I can’t wait to see the look on RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s face after I do this. But I’m sure he is going to raise a real ruckus if we do. (PAUSE) Okay, let’s do it. You want to go with us Kathryn?
KATHYRN FRANCISCO
No you two go ahead. I’ll just stay here and relax and wait for you for dinner.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay it’s settled then. We better turn in early. Long day tomorrow.
(To the unseen waiter) Just put it on our tab.
They stand up and leave.
INT. CAR - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO is driving, with his son beside him.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Are you sure about this Dad?
BILL FRANCISCO
Well a challenge is something I never try to back away from.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
I’m in.
BILL FRANCISCO
Life’s interesting challenges are never easy, son.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
What did you tell the factory managers Dad?
BILL FRANCISCO
I told JACK PEREZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ I just needed the day to do some planning outside the plant, so they won’t look for me. The drive will be pleasant, though not always fast.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Looks scenic anyway.
BILL FRANCISCO
There’s only one asphalt paved two lane road that traverses the island going in the direction of the plant, and so we have to take it. Unfortunately, I heard there are large potholes and also some parts which have turned to dirt roads.
Both stop talking for a few seconds and enjoy the drive. Suddenly both are bouncing up and down slightly in their seats.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well here’s one of the portions that will slow us down.
They stop talking again for a few seconds and resume enjoying the drive. They see a gas station with a restaurant.
BILL FRANCISCO
This looks like a good place to stop, gas up and have an early lunch. There seems to be a town here.
BILL FRANCISCO is steering to pull over, parks, and stops the SUV.
EXT. RESTAURANT PARKING LOT - DAY
They disembark from the SUV.
BILL FRANCISCO
Looks like the popular place to eat is that burger place over there. You okay there?
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Sure Dad.
INT. RESTAURANT - DAY
They walk in and sit down at the table. They look at the menu. A WAITER approaches.
BILL FRANCISCO
You want the burger right?
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Yes with the Coke and fries.
BILL FRANCISCO
(to Waiter)
Okay, give us two cheeseburger meals with the fries and Coke.
WAITER
(as he gets the menus) Okay sir.
BILL FRANCISCO
Uh, do you mind? What do most people do here?
WAITER
Sir they mostly work at the sugar mill. It’s the main town employer.
BILL FRANCISCO
Sugar mill? I didn’t see anything on the road.
WAITER
It’s hidden. By the tall clump of trees on the way to the hills. Sometimes you’ll see their workers walking on the road.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay thanks. Please hurry with our food. We need to drive further.
WAITER
Okay sir.
The WAITER leaves. After a few moments he returns with the burgers, Coke and fries.
INT. CAR - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO are back in their SUV.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
That was a heavy meal Dad.
BILL FRANCISCO
Yeah I know. Hope I don’t fall asleep later.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
I’ll try to get some coffee at the plant later.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay.
They both see two men on the road walking on the side.
BILL FRANCISCO
We need to stop.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Dad? No Dad! That’s a bad idea! We don’t know who these people are!
BILL FRANCISCO suddenly slows the SUV to a stop a few meters away. He unbuckles his seatbelt.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Dad, what are you doing? We don’t know these people.
BILL FRANCISCO
It’s okay. I’ll just talk to these farmers briefly. If you see me suddenly running towards you, start the car and I’ll get on the passenger’s side so we can make a quick getaway if needed. Else I think it should be okay.
INT. CAR - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO leaves the car and GEORGE FRANCISCO takes his seat. He rocks his head and has doubts about the sudden plan.
EXT. SUGARCANE FIELD ROAD - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO starts walking towards the farmers. They see him, and look bewildered as to why a smartly dressed stranger would stop to talk to them. BILL FRANCISCO walked slowly, with his two hands visible, so they would see he means no harm.
BILL FRANCISCO
Hello there. Do you speak English?
BILL FRANCISCO asks from afar, about twenty meters away. The men look at him but do not look threatening. JOACHIM TERESO (20) is the first sugarcane farmer to speak. The other older one, EDUARDO PEREZ (60) is also a sugar cane farmer.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m BILL FRANCISCO. I’m just curious about sugarcane processing. Do you... speak English?
JOACHIM TERESO
My name is JOACHIM TERESO sir. I speak English.
BILL FRANCISCO approaches them but keeps a comfortable distance. The two farmers are also cautious. JOACHIM TERESO wipes his hands on his faded jeans. He looks more like a student. The other looks like a sugar worker the way people imagine them to be.
JOACHIM TERESO approaches BILL FRANCISCO with an extended hand. BILL FRANCISCO shakes his hand.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m just passing by on the way to the Concept plant in that direction.
The men mumble excitedly to each other upon hearing Concept.
JOACHIM TERESO
Yes, I have a sister who works there. This is my boss EDUARDO PEREZ, his son also works for that Company.
BILL FRANCISCO
You two, where do you work? Who employs you?
JOACHIM TERESO
We work for the sugar farmers’ cooperative sir.
BILL FRANCISCO
So why are you on the road walking?
JOACHIM TERESO
We just finished burning some of these leftover sugar cane stalks from the harvest. We are just walking back to the Santa Clarita sugar mill to do other things there.
BILL FRANCISCO
The sugar mill? Where is it? I did hear there is one here, but haven’t seen anything from the road.
JOACHIM TERESO
It’s because of the tall clumps of trees sir. It’s intentionally grown high and there are some clumps of tall trees over there that act like a fence so it can’t be seen from the road, but it’s not that far.
BILL FRANCISCO
Can I give you gentlemen a lift? I’d like to see the sugar mill if it's okay.
The two sugar farmers look at each other. The older man nodded to JOACHIM TERESO.
JOACHIM TERESO
Ok sir, maybe only until the gate. You can see the plant from the outside. But I’m not sure that our security will let you in.
BILL FRANCISCO
That’s fine. Let’s go.
The men follow him to the car.
INT. CAR - DAY
A shocked GEORGE FRANCISCO is speechless and only looks at his father with worry. JOACHIM TERESO and the older man take their seats at the back.
BILL FRANCISCO
(to GEORGE FRANCISCO) Don’t worry. They work at the sugar mill. (to JOACHIM TERESO) Where do we go?
JOACHIM TERESO
Just go straight sir then turn right. It’s only a few hundred meters ahead.
BILL FRANCISCO
Those sugarcane wastes, what do you do with those after the harvest?
JOACHIM TERESO
Like I said, we just burn it. These are the excess trimmings from the sugarcane harvest, but we also have the liquid extract called the vinasse, and the solid that remains from the crushed sugarcane, called bagasse.
BILL FRANCISCO
Vinasse. Bagasse. New terms for me.
JOACHIM TERESO
We heard it can be sold as fuel for power plants, but there is no one doing that here. So we just burn it.
BILL FRANCISCO
Did I hear you right? You’re looking at using sugarcane stalks for energy? Sugarcane is almost as hard as wood once it’s dried right.
JOACHIM TERESO
Yes sir.
BILL FRANCISCO
I can imagine that it can really release a lot of heat energy when burned, almost like wood perhaps.
JOACHIM TERESO
Yes, plus since sugar also burns, that helps add to the heat content.
BILL FRANCISCO
That’s good to know.
JOACHIM TERESO
Especially since you need a lot of it daily if you will use it for power generation or manufacturing.
BILL FRANCISCO
You seem to know a lot about the use of biomass for fuel.
JOACHIM TERESO
Our sugar cooperative asked me to look at it. I think it is a good idea. We just need to figure out how to do it.
BILL FRANCISCO
What’s stopping you?
JOACHIM TERESO
Funding. It would take a big bank loan in the millions to finance it. It’s just a dream.
BILL FRANCISCO continues driving. He thinks about what JOACHIM TERESO said.
JOACHIM TERESO
Please turn right at this dirt road. These large clumps of tall bamboo act like a fence. As you can see, a lot of chopped sugar cane have fallen off the delivery trucks.
BILL FRANCISCO
What are those large brown mounds that look like large hills of brown dirt?
JOACHIM TERESO
That’s the biomass bagasse waste from the sugar processing. The vinasse, or the liquid discharge, is kept in large pools at the back. It gets a bit smelly here during the summer.
BILL FRANCISCO
Shouldn’t those be converted to energy via a biomass plant?
JOACHIM TERESO
It should. The sugar mill owners don’t own the waste sir. Under the law, we farmers own it. So they have to buy it or pay us if they will use it. So they don’t.
BILL FRANCISCO
Interesting. So you farmers own the biomass waste rights.
JOACHIM TERESO
In fact, they’ve gone to the courts to try and reverse that ruling, but the courts here have always said the biomass wastes belong to the farmers.
BILL FRANCISCO
It’s good the courts are on your side.
JOACHIM TERESO
If our farmers’ cooperative can get some money from the bank, we can build our own biomass power and steam company. But the bank here will not allow us.
BILL FRANCISCO
Yes, the elite families seem to rule this island.
JOACHIM TERESO
Who would lend us money? This island is controlled by only a few families. (Pointing) There. That’s the sugar mill sir.
BILL FRANCISCO
Oh, there it is. You’re right, it’s huge.
JOACHIM TERESO
You should stop here sir. The guard won’t let you in. Sir thanks for the lift. That saved us a thirty-minute walk.
BILL FRANCISCO
My pleasure to both of you. At least, I got to see Santa Clarita’s sugar mill.
JOACHIM TERESO
Okay, sir. Maybe RAMON MAYAGUEZ at Concept will tell you about this too. His family owns this sugar mill.
BILL FRANCISCO
Really? And everything else I heard.
JOACHIM TERESO
Yes they own almost everything on this island. Well except all this biomass waste.
BILL FRANCISCO
Wow. Yes I know him very well. That’s a very interesting piece of information for me. Thanks Joachim!
EDUARDO PEREZ
By the way sir, you should also know that your plant manager JACK PEREZ used to be one of us a long time ago.
BILL FRANCISCO
What? That’s two tidbits of information that have made this chance meeting worthwhile. Thank you both of you.
EDUARDO PEREZ
I haven’t seen my son JACK PEREZ in a while actually.
BILL FRANCISCO
(Flabbergasted)
JACK PEREZ IS YOUR SON? (Pauses) Of course! The surname!
EDUARDO PEREZ
Yes. Although I do not blame you. It is a common surname here.
BILL FRANCISCO
(Excited)
Oh my. It’s a pleasure to meet you! I’ll tell him we met!
They say their goodbyes. Both get off the SUV, and BILL FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO change seats. They continue onward with their trip to get JOANNE CABRERA.
BILL FRANCISCO
That diversion cost us around thirty minutes or so, but it wasn’t so bad. At least, we know another thing our friend RAMON MAYAGUEZ owns and does not own. And something about JACK PEREZ as well!
GEORGE FRANCISCO
I must admit I wasn’t crazy about stopping and giving them a lift, but with these disclosures, it seems like serendipity.
They continue the drive.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Wow these hills are extremely stunning. But some of these one lane roads are quite hairy. Are we still far, Dad? It’s almost 1pm.
BILL FRANCISCO
There’s the plant. We are near.
EXT. REMOTE FACTORY – DAY
After disembarking from their car, BILL FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO walk towards the remote factory entrance.
INT. REMOTE FACTORY LOBBY - DAY
They enter the plant. After BILL FRANCISCO shows his ID, he parks the car. The factory is old and looks run down. Most of the equipment looks rusted. A lot of the paint is peeling and missing in some areas. There are several rusted forklifts and trucks without tires.
BILL FRANCISCO
Now I understand why we’re shutting this plant down.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Are you okay Dad? I mean that is a five-hour drive. Can we make it back without staying overnight?
BILL FRANCISCO
I’ll be okay. C’mon let’s look for JOANNE CABRERA so we can leave quickly.
Both BILL FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO walk towards the main reception area. BILL FRANCISCO shows his company ID.
BILL FRANCISCO
Can you kindly call JOANNE CABRERA please?
The receptionist makes a phone call. A few minutes later, JOANNE CABRERA emerges in her hard hat, overalls and safety gear, and some folders under her arm. She is surprised.
JOANNE CABRERA
What are you two doing here?
BILL FRANCISCO
Don’t ask questions. Get your stuff. You’re coming back with us.
For a moment, JOANNE CABRERA doesn’t seem to know what to do. She looks at them with a blank stare. Suddenly she snaps out of it.
JOANNE CABRERA
Okay but are you sure about this? I just need to brief my colleague here whom I just met why I won’t be staying.
BILL FRANCISCO
Do what you have to do.
JOANNE CABRERA
He will be surprised as I just finished meeting with him an hour ago. There’s actually a lot of work to be done here as we need to plan for how to close down this plant.
BILL FRANCISCO
Such as?
JOANNE CABRERA
Things like proper disposal of wastes, auctioning off some of the older but still useful equipment, metal and plastic scraps, environment impact studies, and all that.
BILL FRANCISCO
Do you want to stay here? We just drove five hours to get here.
JOANNE CABRERA is unsure what to do for a moment. Then she decides.
JOANNE CABRERA
Uhmm, no. Okay I’ll go back with you. I just need to explain this. Also I need to get my personal belongings.
BILL FRANCISCO
No problem.
JOANNE CABRERA exits. BILL FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO wait briefly before she enters back. JOANNE CABRERA enters with her duffel bag.
JOANNE CABRERA
Let’s go.
EXT. REMOTE FACTORY – DAY
The three walk to the SUV and ride.
INT. CAR - DAY
JOANNE CABRERA
You should fill up your tank at the gas station nearby before we proceed to the Maria Elena hills. And maybe buy some snacks and drinks to fill us up just in case we can’t catch dinner.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay.
JOANNE CABRERA
This isn’t a good place to get stuck in after dark. We need to get past the Maria Elena hills before sunset.
BILL FRANCISCO
I still remember where the bad parts of the road are. Though it is getting dark.
INT. CAR – NIGHT
They drive in silence at night.
JOANNE CABRERA
Good that we’re past the hills. Now we enter the sugar cane fields. Still eerie at night, but at least, we’re out of the hills.
BILL FRANCISCO
We still have around 70 miles to go, some of that on dirt trails, before we’re back in the city.
JOANNE CABRERA
The company van driver drove fast but he stayed in the plant overnight.
BILL FRANCISCO
At most we can occasionally do 30 miles per hour top speed, but in some areas we need to slow down on the gravel covered potholed portions of the road.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
What happens if someone gets a flat tire in this area?
JOANNE CABRERA
Well, if they are lucky maybe a passing car will stop and help them. Sometimes the police in the area also do their patrols, but that’s rare.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
I guess the best thing to do is not to get a flat tire in this area.
BILL FRANCISCO
Let’s just go straight back to the hotel. I’m checking you in the hotel on company expense, at least for tonight. We can all just grab a late dinner there? Sounds good?
JOANNE CABRERA
Definitely boss!
BILL FRANCISCO
By the way, we saw the sugar mill earlier. Two sugar workers on the road took us there.
JOANNE CABRERA
Really?
BILL FRANCISCO
They told us RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s family owns the sugar mill and that JACK PEREZ used to be a sugar worker. The young man who was with them, a certain JOACHIM TERESO, seemed to have a lot between his ears.
JOANNE CABRERA
I heard JACK PEREZ’s father heads that farmer’s cooperative. That sugar mill is a major employer here.
BILL FRANCISCO
JOACHIM TERESO impressed me.
JOANNE CABRERA
A lot of them are smart. Most of them just didn’t have the opportunities to study and improve their lot. Some are lucky though, like JACK PEREZ. He won a scholarship to the local university here.
BILL FRANCISCO
You won’t believe this. It gets even better. The other man we met, EDUARDO PEREZ, is JACK PEREZ’s father.
JOANNE CABRERA
WHAT? WOW. That’s serendipity.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
That’s what I said too.
They drive in silence for a while.
JOANNE CABRERA
RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s family owns almost the entire island of Santa Clarita, the Bank, and even that sugar mill.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Hard to believe anyone could be that rich.
JOANNE CABRERA
I’ve often wondered why he works for Concept when he could just work for his father. Though I heard stories he just wanted to prove he could survive without family money.
BILL FRANCISCO
Unfortunately we have to deal with him.
JOANNE CABRERA
You did get permission from him right? Or headquarters?
BILL FRANCISCO pauses and looks briefly at GEORGE FRANCISCO.
BILL FRANCISCO
Sort of. I do have blanket authority to make this renewable energy effort happen. And you’re part of that.
JOANNE CABRERA
So no. Well I could get fired for this.
BILL FRANCISCO
Look, you were the one who brought up the funny business in the plant. We need to get to the bottom of that.
JOANNE CABRERA
Yes. I guess.
BILL FRANCISCO
I also need you to make this renewable energy commitment happen.
JOANNE CABRERA slinks into the back seat. She is worried.
JOANNE CABRERA
It’s very hard to get this kind of job, but at least my conscience is clear.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m sure you’ll be fine.
JOANNE CABRERA
I’m just afraid what might happen if and when I come face to face with RAMON MAYAGUEZ. I hope you can deal with him.
BILL FRANCISCO
Don’t worry. We’ll deal with him together.
INT. FACTORY CORRIDOR - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO and JOANNE CABRERA enter.
JOANNE CABRERA
If I were to walk into our staff meeting with RAMON MAYAGUEZ there, I could be fired for insubordination. Are we doing this?
BILL FRANCISCO
Of course! Let’s go.
INT. FACTORY BOARDROOM - DAY
As soon as they both enter the room, JACK PEREZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ appear shocked.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(surprised)
WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE? DID I NOT ASSIGN YOU TO THE OTHER FACTORY?
JOANNE CABRERA is unable to answer.
BILL FRANCISCO
Relax Ramon. I brought her here. Or should I say, I fetched her from the other plant.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
YOU DID WHAT? BY WHOSE AUTHORITY?
BILL FRANCISCO thinks quickly how he can answer RAMON MAYAGUEZ.
BILL FRANCISCO
MINE! FROM CEO LESTER REEVES. AT HEADQUARTERS.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
I find that hard to believe! Did CEO LESTER REEVES authorize you to pick up a regular employee assigned to another plant? That is preposterous!
RAMON MAYAGUEZ walks to the phone and dials the receptionist.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Get me headquarters, and patch me through to CEO LESTER REEVES at HQ.
JACK PEREZ is silent, stands up and simply looks out the window. Both BILL FRANCISCO and JOANNE CABRERA look at him. JOANNE CABRERA suddenly looks nervous. BILL FRANCISCO tries to keep his composure.
RECEPTIONIST
(V.O.)
Sorry sir, we can’t seem to put the call through. The line is busy.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ hangs up the speakerphone. He looks at both BILL FRANCISCO and JOANNE CABRERA.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
(enraged)
If I find out that there is no such order, then I’ll have both of you fired! You for insubordination, and you for undermining our local autonomy here.
BILL FRANCISCO is speechless.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Do not interfere in our local operations! We will hit our renewable energy targets at the right time.
BILL FRANCISCO
(pissed)
When? When do you plan to do that?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ looks at JACK PEREZ. JACK PEREZ simply shrugs.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Uhh, sometime in the future. We have our own time. But we cannot sacrifice plant reliability for the green liberal audacious goal the Board wants us to meet.
BILL FRANCISCO
Are you telling me you are directly opposing a corporate initiative, driven by the Board at that?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
We have local autonomy on plant matters.
BILL FRANCISCO
I don’t believe you are saying this! I’m going to call HQ about this.
BILL FRANCISCO exits. JOANNE CABRERA follows after him and exits.
INT. SUGAR FARMER SHACK OFFICE - DAY
JOACHIM TERESO paces around their humble meeting office, a small shack in the middle of the sugar fields. EDUARDO PEREZ looks at him as he remains seated on his desk. The window has a view of the large sugar plantation, part of which has already been harvested.
EDUARDO PEREZ
JOACHIM TERESO, sit down. You are like my son JACK PEREZ. In fact, you are exactly like my son, impatient and stubborn.
JOACHIM TERESO stops pacing, and pulls the nearby chair and takes his seat.
EDUARDO PEREZ
I wonder if Concept Corporation would be interested in buying steam or electricity from our planned power venture.
JOACHIM TERESO
Why don’t you ask your son? What’s the use of being his father if things like those you cannot ask about?
EDUARDO PEREZ stands up this time, then paces around.
JOACHIM TERESO
Now you are the one pacing around EDUARDO PEREZ, not me.
EDUARDO PEREZ
He sends a greeting card during my birthday and rarely does he pay the family a visit. We are civil but not really that close anymore.
JOACHIM TERESO
Why is that?
EDUARDO PEREZ
He actually ran away from home against my wishes to go for the college scholarship.
JOACHIM TERESO
He ran away?
EDUARDO PEREZ
I guess at that time I was afraid to lose him, that’s why I tried to stop him. But I’m glad he went. Now he is a big shot, not like me, a lowly sugar farmer.
JOACHIM TERESO
(stands up)
You are insulting both of us and our fellow farmers with that remark!
EDUARDO PEREZ
Wait. I’m sorry. I am just saying there is not much of a future here. Even for you.
JOACHIM TERESO
Don’t you think I know that?
EDUARDO PEREZ
If you notice I plucked you out from the fields as you looked like you belonged more in school, gave you some books to read on biomass and talked to you a lot. I even helped you get a scholarship at the local engineering college.
JOACHIM TERESO
I am thankful. Don’t get me wrong.
EDUARDO PEREZ
You very much remind me of my son. If you work hard you can follow my son’s path. Look at where he is today.
JOACHIM TERESO
I know. I idolize him.
EDUARDO PEREZ
That is simply what I meant. I am a sugar farmer just like you and I take pride in our work. I am sorry I said otherwise.
JOACHIM TERESO
Okay. I understand.
JOACHIM TERESO understands, then takes his seat again.
JOACHIM TERESO
That BILL FRANCISCO seemed interested in biomass energy. Fortunately, as you said, you made me read all these books about biomass. Maybe something will come out of it once I finish my engineering degree. Hopefully.
EDUARDO PEREZ looks out the window.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Maybe something will happen. So that we will no longer be bound by the shackles of what we do.
JOACHIM TERESO
Maybe. But I doubt it.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Maybe the banks will suddenly call us and say we would like to offer you a long-term low-interest loan with no catch, to help us build our own biomass energy plant.
JOACHIM TERESO
You are joking, right? The banks? Loan to us? That’s crazy! Aren’t the sugar mill owners still contesting our ownership of the biomass? That will never happen.
EDUARDO PEREZ
We need to be hopeful. That’s all we have.
JOACHIM TERESO
What you should ask perhaps is if there is still any possibility they can get back the ownership of the biomass from us.
EDUARDO PEREZ continues to pace around, then stops.
EDUARDO PEREZ
I can’t be certain. They keep trying to file motions, but the courts refuse to entertain it. But knowing these people and how interested they are in trying to maintain their stranglehold on Santa Clarita’s economy, I wouldn’t rule anything out.
JOACHIM TERESO
I doubt they’ll stop.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Still, the law is on our side. We own the biomass. Let’s just hope that the Bank will see the light and loan money to us to build the plant. Otherwise, all we have is really useless waste. Lots of it.
JOACHIM TERESO
Okay then. I’ll keep studying those biomass technical manuals and keep hoping. Unless they see we are prepared and not just sitting pretty on our biomass, these banks and investors will never take us seriously.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Don’t give up.
JOACHIM TERESO
Don’t worry. If something good happens, they will find us ready. I will know everything there is to know about biomass energy or as much of it as I can comprehend.
EDUARDO PEREZ
I know you will. Let’s go. Time to get back to the fields.
JOACHIM TERESO and EDUARDO PEREZ exit.
INT. HOTEL FRONT DESK - DAY
After arriving back at the hotel, BILL FRANCISCO checks in with the receptionist.
RECEPTIONIST
Sir, someone left this letter for you.
He receives a white envelope, with no sender written. He opens the letter.
BILL FRANCISCO
(internal voice)
Your wife seems to like taking long walks on the beach. Your son enjoys going out into the sugar fields. This island can be a nice vacation haven, but it can also be a dangerous place. Take care of your family.
BILL FRANCISCO blanches upon reading the note. The note is unsigned. The sender did not make a direct threat but that is the implication. He folds the letter and places it inside his shirt pocket.
BILL FRANCISCO
(Worried)
Do you know who left this?
The receptionist shrugs her shoulders.
RECEPTIONIST
Sorry sir, that was left here for you and I saw it there. I didn’t see who delivered it.
He just leaves. Disturbed.
EXT. HOTEL POOLSIDE - NIGHT
BILL FRANCISCO walks calmly into the hotel poolside to meet KATHRYN and GEORGE FRANCISCO but scans the environment for anything that seems out of place. GEORGE FRANCISCO walks towards him.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Dad, how was work?
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m fine. Where’s your mom?
GEORGE FRANCISCO
She’s lounging in one of the beach chairs with a soda, Dad.
BILL FRANCISCO
(looking around first) Look I need to show you something. Don’t mention this to your mom, she will get scared.
GEORGE FRANCISCO reads the note and understands its significance immediately. His face suddenly becomes ashen.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Where did you get this, Dad?
BILL FRANCISCO
From the receptionist. Someone left it with her. I don’t think she’s involved in this.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
What about JOANNE CABRERA?
BILL FRANCISCO
I’ll need to get her to check in here for a few days. Can you take care of both of them while she’s here?
KATHYRN sees them from the usual table where they often sit and waves to them.
BILL FRANCISCO
Let’s walk towards her slowly while we talk, so she doesn’t suspect anything.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Sure Dad. What are you planning?
BILL FRANCISCO
I can’t tell you yet, but I need you not to go out of the hotel at least for a few days with them. At least, it’s safer here.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Ok Dad.
BILL FRANCISCO
Anyway, let’s go and have dinner with her. We’ll discuss it more when I get back from work tomorrow. I’ll also discreetly tell hotel security.
They sit down for dinner at the table near the pool. BILL FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO scan the environment around them, looking for suspicious characters.
KATHRYN FRANCISCO
You two seem spooked? What’s up?
BILL FRANCISCO
Spooked? No nothing. Just tired. Maybe we should just call room service and eat in the room.
KATHRYN FRANCISCO
Okay.
BILL FRANCISCO
Let’s go then.
They all stand up and exit .
INT. FACTORY MANAGER OFFICE - DAY
The next day, BILL FRANCISCO manages to set a meeting with JACK PEREZ alone in his office to confront him with the news about the threatening letter.
BILL FRANCISCO enters and almost slams the letter in front of JACK PEREZ. JACK PEREZ looks at it, then BILL FRANCISCO notices that his face suddenly looks surprised.
BILL FRANCISCO
Do you have anything to do with that letter?
JACK PEREZ is taken aback with the question. He stares at the letter then leans back in his seat. He looks at the ceiling then looks at BILL FRANCISCO.
JACK PEREZ
What? Of course not. If I do ask questions about your renewable energy plans, it simply comes from some valid technical questions that I have.
BILL FRANCISCO
Yes but you have a lot of questions.
JACK PEREZ
All manufacturing factory managers will ask the same technical questions I ask. I have nothing to do with anything outside of that. I’ve nothing to hide.
BILL FRANCISCO
Then who does?
JACK PEREZ folds the letter calmly and returns it to BILL FRANCISCO. BILL FRANCISCO then puts back the folded letter in his shirt pocket.
JACK PEREZ stands up, walks towards the window, puts his hands in his trouser pockets then stares out, looking towards the distance.
JACK PEREZ
(pointing)
If what you want to do happens, you will also be creating a huge revolution against the entrenched interests who run this island.
BILL FRANCISCO
I understand.
JACK PEREZ
See those fires in the distance BILL FRANCISCO? Those are the cane farmers burning the leaves and parts of the sugarcane from harvesting.
Briefly, BILL FRANCISCO sees the fires burning in the distance.
JACK PEREZ
These farmers actually own the agricultural wastes under the law. I was one of them once. In fact, my father runs the sugar cooperative here.
BILL FRANCISCO
I know that. I’ve met your father EDUARDO PEREZ.
JACK PEREZ
(Taken aback)
WHAT? HOW?
BILL FRANCISCO
When we picked up JOANNE CABRERA, by chance we managed to meet some sugar workers on the road near the sugar mill. We chatted and then we gave them a lift back to the sugar mill. Pretty interesting place.
JACK PEREZ
So you’ve been around. And heard plenty.
BILL FRANCISCO
I heard that RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s family owns it. And your father EDUARDO PEREZ runs the sugar farmer cooperative that owns the biomass, and that you used to work with them.
JACK PEREZ
Yes, my father. It has been a long time. How is he?
BILL FRANCISCO
He seemed okay. Don’t you talk to him?
JACK PEREZ
Not really. I haven’t seen him in a while. Personal reasons. So you’ve been around.
BILL FRANCISCO
There was also a young guy there, JOACHIM TERESO who told us all this.
JACK PEREZ
Yes, I do remember JOACHIM TERESO. I think he is the son of one of the farmers I know. That was all a long time ago for me. I’ve since left that world.
BILL FRANCISCO
How come?
JACK PEREZ
I argued with him a long time ago about going to college and he wanted me to be a farmer like him. I did not want that life for myself.
BILL FRANCISCO
You mean you haven’t talked to him all these years?
JACK PEREZ
We’ve kept in touch occasionally, but everything has been too formal, too contrived, I guess.
BILL FRANCISCO
But you didn’t answer my question. Who could have sent me this threatening letter? If not you, RAMON MAYAGUEZ? Someone else?
JACK PEREZ does not look at BILL FRANCISCO and continues looking towards the distance.
JACK PEREZ
This is Santa Clarita. There are certain interests in this island that feel threatened with what you are doing. I think you already know what I’m talking about.
BILL FRANCISCO
I keep hearing how RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s family owns everything on this island.
JACK PEREZ
I wish I could help you. I was once an idealistic man, but now I only want to retire. I am just a sugar farmer’s son as you know, outside this job. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would become plant manager of this factory.
BILL FRANCISCO
I heard a rumor about possible illegal coal fuel transactions. Does that have anything to do with this letter?
JACK PEREZ sits down on his desk and puts his palms on the table.
JACK PEREZ
Who told you? JOANNE CABRERA? Yes, I’ve heard about that and tried to ask, but RAMON MAYAGUEZ dissuaded me as he said it was dangerous to ask around.
BILL FRANCISCO
We need to investigate this.
JACK PEREZ
I’m perhaps the only plant manager in the world not to have full control of my plant.
BILL FRANCISCO
Who runs this plant really? Is it RAMON MAYAGUEZ?
JACK PEREZ looks surprised at the question.
JACK PEREZ
I thought you knew. It may seem on the surface because of my title that I run the plant and even the strategic part of the operations.
BILL FRANCISCO
But you are supposed to be his boss!
JACK PEREZ
RAMON MAYAGUEZ has day to day control of the plant, including purchasing and supplier contracts. His family is big here in Santa Clarita. They own everything on this island.
JACK PEREZ continues peering into the distance.
Suddenly RAMON MAYAGUEZ enters the office. The two are almost taken aback.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Am I interrupting anything?
BILL FRANCISCO
No, we are done. I was planning to go see the boilers again. Want to go with me?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
No, that's fine. Go ahead. I need to have a private word with JACK PEREZ about some matters.
BILL FRANCISCO leaves JACK PEREZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ but suddenly turns around.
BILL FRANCISCO
By the way, I saw your family’s sugar mill on the way to our other plant. I heard your family owns everything here.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ looks at him with a blank stare. JACK PEREZ chimes in.
JACK PEREZ
Yes, Ramon knows I spent a lot of time delivering sugarcane to their sugar mill. Next to this Concept plant, they are the second biggest employer on the island.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ smirks but does not say anything.
JACK PEREZ
I don’t miss it. I’ve had enough of sugarcane farming when I was young.
BILL FRANCISCO decides not to pursue the discussion. He just leaves the two to resume their discussion about factory matters.
EXT. HOTEL POOLSIDE – DAY
At the poolside table BILL FRANCISCO decides to call CEO LESTER REEVES at headquarters. He dials CEO LESTER REEVES’s number, and then looks towards the horizon while waiting for the phone on the other end to pick up.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
Sorry Bill, I’m really busy today. What’s up?
BILL FRANCISCO
Well, so far I think we can trust JACK PEREZ. He is just doing his job subjecting our renewable energy plans to engineering due diligence.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
So what needs to be done?
BILL FRANCISCO
We may have to spend money next quarter to do the detailed engineering studies for converting from coal to biomass energy.
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
Sounds reasonable.
BILL FRANCISCO
Can the local managers countermand directives from headquarters? First time in my career that I have seen anything like that.
Long pause.
BILL FRANCISCO
Sir, are you still there?
CEO LESTER REEVES
(V.O.)
I don’t know about this. Sorry, I can’t help right now. I’m really busy. Have to go, bye.
Then BILL FRANCISCO hears the click as CEO LESTER REEVES hangs up.
BILL FRANCISCO
What the hell!
KATHRYN FRANCISCO, GEORGE FRANCISCO and JOANNE CABRERA take seats at the poolside dinner table.
BILL FRANCISCO
I just had a meeting with JACK PEREZ earlier. I think we can trust him. Just basing from his demeanor and his answers.
JOANNE CABRERA
It’s RAMON MAYAGUEZ who is the problem, but I can’t be sure.
BILL FRANCISCO
I have the same hunch, but we don’t have any proof. Wait, maybe it would be a good idea if I invite JACK PEREZ for dinner with all of you tomorrow. I’ll call him now.
He rings JACK PEREZ’s cell phone, but JACK PEREZ’s wife answers it instead.
BILL FRANCISCO
Jack? Can you join--.
SYLVIA PEREZ
(V.O.)
(on speaker)--This is JACK PEREZ’s wife SYLVIA PEREZ. I’m sorry he has been in a car accident.
BILL FRANCISCO
WHAT? HOW?
SYLVIA PEREZ
(V.O.)
Jack is somewhat okay now, with some stitches, and is sleeping now. He has to undergo some CAT scans here at Santa Clarita General Hospital. We’ll be in the hospital for a few days.
BILL FRANCISCO
Sorry Sylvia, how did it happen? Please tell him I’ll try to visit him tomorrow, or when the doctors say it is okay to do so.
SYLVIA PEREZ
(V.O.)
No idea yet. He’s been asking for you. Room 304 of Santa Clarita General. I have to go. Thanks.
SYLVIA hangs up.
BILL FRANCISCO
I don’t like the sound of this. Maybe you should take the day off tomorrow and stay here first. I don’t like what’s happening.
JOANNE CABRERA
Okay.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’ll ask security to discreetly watch over you three. I suggest you just stay in the hotel tomorrow and lay low for now.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Yes of course, Dad.
KATHRYN FRANCISCO
Be careful.
He hugs his wife.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
I will. Don’t worry.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO enters. JACK PEREZ is lying on a hospital bed with some stitches for injuries sustained when he hit his face on the steering wheel.
JACK PEREZ
I’ll be out maybe in two days. Docs say nothing is wrong except these cuts, but they want to keep me anyway for observation.
BILL FRANCISCO
What happened?
JACK PEREZ
Well, there was a white pickup truck that cut me off on the narrow part of the dirt road, which caused me to hit some sugarcane stalks.
BILL FRANCISCO
Glad to know at least you’re okay.
JACK PEREZ
The company car is totaled. I may need to get a new one.
BILL FRANCISCO
Never mind the pickup. Maybe with that knock on the head, you’ll even back me up on my renewable energy plans for the plant haha.
JACK PEREZ laughs as well, but then his face aches because of the stitches.
BILL FRANCISCO
Sorry I’ll ease up on the jokes. At least you’ll be better than CEO LESTER REEVES. Like RAMON MAYAGUEZ, he is now a bit indifferent to this renewable energy goal.
JACK PEREZ
Of course, he used to work here, as the plant manager. You didn’t know that?
BILL FRANCISCO
What? No, he never volunteered the information. I was assigned to a different country before this.
JACK PEREZ
Well, they were like a ball and socket, working like a finely tuned machine.
BILL FRANCISCO
Tell me more.
JACK PEREZ
When CEO LESTER REEVES left, they started a local search for a new plant manager. I felt I could handle it since I had been with the Company for several years, rising from the ranks mind you, so I applied and was chosen.
JACK PEREZ
Wasn’t RAMON MAYAGUEZ more senior than you? Why wasn’t he considered?
SYLVIA PEREZ, sensing that the discussions are becoming sensitive, excuses herself from the hospital room.
SYLVIA PEREZ
I’ll just be outside.
JACK PEREZ
(to SYLVIA PEREZ)
Okay hon.
JACK PEREZ
(to BILL FRANCISCO)
He prefers to remain as Deputy Manager to keep managing the purchasing department and the suppliers. (PAUSE) You can take your cue from that. I didn’t want to ask too many questions.
BILL FRANCISCO
This is unsettling. Now I don’t know what to do if my own boss is somehow involved in something.
JACK PEREZ moves slowly and then grabs his phone from the side table.
JACK PEREZ
Wait, let’s call someone at headquarters. Maybe he can help. He’s DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN of the Board, but he is also a good friend of mine. He went here last year. We can talk with him in confidence.
Then he dials the number of DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN.
JACK PEREZ
Director. Yeah it’s been a while. BILL FRANCISCO is here with me right now. (Pause) Yes, I know CEO LESTER REEVES sent him over. (Pause) Listen, do you remember how he became CEO?
BILL FRANCISCO tries to listen in but DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN is doing most of the talking, and he can only listen to JACK PEREZ’s brief questions and replies. After their discussion, JACK PEREZ and DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN agree to speak again soon and JACK PEREZ hangs up the phone.
JACK PEREZ
It’s a bit complicated. One of the Company Board members, ROBERTO CORRALEZ, was against the renewable energy goal. But here is where it gets interesting. He had also strongly batted for the careers of CEO LESTER REEVES and RAMON MAYAGUEZ.
BILL FRANCISCO
And so?
JACK PEREZ
You remember when I said I was just a farmer’s son who rose to this position? Well now, this might be the reason I will lose this position. But I think you should know.
BILL FRANCISCO
Know what? Tell me. Please tell me what this is all about.
JACK PEREZ takes a deep breath, as if unsure about whether he should proceed.
JACK PEREZ
ROBERTO CORRALEZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s father, ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ, are cousins. Their family has ruled this island for decades. They own almost everything here.
BILL FRANCISCO
I feel like I’ve been set up somehow. To fail.
JACK PEREZ
Maybe. You’ve seen the sugar mill as well as other businesses around here. You simply do not mess with them and not expect something to happen.
BILL FRANCISCO
That road accident, was that really an accident?
JACK PEREZ
If I was not employed in this Company, I would probably be burning the remains of the sugarcane stalks like those farmers out there. Like I said, I’m just a sugar farmer’s son.
BILL FRANCISCO
I refuse to believe they can stop a corporate directive.
JACK PEREZ
Whatever you plan to do, I hope you can make it happen. A lot is at stake for people like me. In my case, my hard earned retirement. For others, possibly their jobs.
BILL FRANCISCO
I don’t need riddles. You didn’t answer my question.
JACK PEREZ
Honestly, I don’t know. Maybe.
Suddenly SYLVIA PEREZ enters.
SYLVIA PEREZ
RAMON MAYAGUEZ is downstairs in the lobby, asking if he can see you.
BILL FRANCISCO
I should go. I’ll take the side exit. We’ll talk again when you are well.
JACK PEREZ
That’s probably a good idea.
JACK PEREZ
(to Sylvia) Honey, give Bill some time to leave, then tell the nurse RAMON MAYAGUEZ can go up.
JACK PEREZ
(to Bill) Oh but before you leave, let me give you the DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN’s number. You should call him maybe in an hour.
BILL FRANCISCO shakes hands with JACK PEREZ.
INT. CAR - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO dials the number of DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN given to him by JACK PEREZ. DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN asks about JACK PEREZ’s accident.
BILL FRANCISCO
It does look suspicious. But it could have been a real accident. Some lousy driver could have simply cut him off at the narrow portion of the road.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
You need to watch your back. It looks like ROBERTO CORRALEZ, CEO LESTER REEVES, and RAMON MAYAGUEZ are in on something suspicious over there.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’ll be careful sir.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
I’ve had my reservations. We gave the locals too much control and now they have someone on the Board who shouldn’t be here.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m still confused about how and why CEO LESTER REEVES could be involved. I’m not even sure why he sent me here if he is in on this.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
I can only guess that they needed to prove that the Board resolution wouldn’t work, and you were the patsy they were counting on.
BILL FRANCISCO
CEO LESTER REEVES sounded so convincing.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
If they set you up for failure, which is what they were hoping for, then ROBERTO CORRALEZ would have his proof that the renewable energy plan wouldn’t work.
BILL FRANCISCO
I was their decoy.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
No one would be the wiser, and they would still have their arrangement – whatever it is, still in place. I suggest you have someone check on all the supply contracts. Maybe you’ll find something there.
BILL FRANCISCO
I did hear something about a suspicious coal supply contract from someone in the staff that I trust.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
There. Go check that out if you can. Maybe a photo. Send it to me asap if you find it.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’ll try sir.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
If we can’t, then we can’t really prove anything and it just becomes a rumor.
BILL FRANCISCO
Understood sir.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
Again, watch your back. I think they even got to the Company auditors in some way.
BILL FRANCISCO
But what happens to us, since we’re stirring a hornet’s nest around here.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
Well except for those guilty of whatever illegal transaction they were doing, most employees and managers at Concept I’m sure are good people.
BILL FRANCISCO
Will we all be okay sir?
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
Don’t worry we’ll back you up over here. Remember you’re acting on behalf of the Board and the Company.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m also worried about some of the local staff who are helping me out.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
Just watch your back from some of the locals, but as far as your job and the jobs of the people helping you out, you’re all protected. It should be they who should be worried, frankly.
BILL FRANCISCO
Thank you sir for your time.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
(V.O.)
Call me if something new comes up. Okay gotta go.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN hangs up. BILL FRANCISCO dials another number.
BILL FRANCISCO
Hello JOANNE CABRERA, how are things there at the hotel.(BEAT) Great. Listen, I need your help. Is there anyone you know we can trust at Finance who can take a look at those supply contracts?
JOANNE CABRERA
(V.O.)
Maybe. But I’m not sure. Why?
BILL FRANCISCO
We need a photocopy or a photo of the actual coal contract so we can solve this thing. Else we’ll just be chasing thin air.
JOANNE CABRERA
(V.O.)
I’ll see what I can do.
BILL FRANCISCO
I know it’s a long shot. But anyway be careful. Let’s just keep our fingers crossed. Thanks Joanne.
BILL FRANCISCO hangs up and puts his phone in his pocket, then exits.
INT. FAMILY MANSION - DAY
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ, the patriarch of the family, enters.
He hobbles on his bad leg towards the two men. He paces back and forth. He takes a brandy glass and pours some brandy into it. His palm warms the brandy glass as he takes a small sip. Nobody dares break the silence as the old man paces around slowly, all waiting for him to speak.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
Since when has this been happening?
No one says a word. He sets the brandy glass down and places both his hands on his mahogany study desk. He takes a silver framed faded photo of him and his late wife and young baby son and looks at it, then sets it down on the desk afterward.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ sees the photo his father is looking at from where he is seated. It is familiar to him as he had seen it many times. He looks so innocent as a baby in that photo.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
This is not what this family is about. Why did you do this? This was not how we started many years ago. I want you to put a stop to this nonsense immediately!
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
No one knows about it! We are fine!
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
You even involved your nephew. My son, in your nefarious scheme!
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
But this contract is worth much to us. We are making big money with this. We cannot possibly--
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
--STOP IT! Tell your coal supplier partner to stop this. I know he is your wife’s brother. If he does not, he will have to deal with me personally. Tell him to stop it now. I mean it.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ looks up into the ceiling, and his eyes show his frustration with his older cousin. Still, he knows he can go no further. ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ is the patriarch of the family. Whatever he says, no one dares question.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
I will do as you ask. It is hard, but if that is your wish, I will make it happen.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
It is not only because it is my wish, but it is also because this is not how we do business. Understand?
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Yes. I understand.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
Else your coal supplier brother in law has to deal with me. And tell him to lay off this BILL FRANCISCO and his family.
His eyes show the anger that he tries to restrain against ROBERTO CORRALEZ.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I gave you a piece of advice many years ago. I told you not to marry that woman, but you insisted. See what she has brought upon our family? Shame.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
No she–-
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
–-That is what she has brought to us. But you refused to heed my advice. So here you are now. And you managed to involve my son in it as well.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ picks up his brandy glass again and takes another sip.
He then looks at his son RAMON MAYAGUEZ, on the sofa. RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s head is bowed.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I thought the reason you did not work for me was because you wanted to show me you did not need our family money. You wanted to show that you could make it on your own.
The son is speechless.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
Is this what you mean by that! This shady deal?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
No Papa.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
This is not the way of our family. If you cannot accept that, then get out. Even if you are my only son and you are my cousin, I will kick you both out of this family if that is how you conduct business.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ is bowed and has tears welling in his eyes.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
And let me warn you, if I do that, both of you will be ruined in Santa Clarita. Not even the garbage man will want to do business with you two.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Yes Papa. I am sorry.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I will not dishonor my wife’s memory, your mother’s memory, with shameful things like these. If you continue with this course, I will disown both of you.
No one speaks. The old man simply looks at them, finishes his brandy, and with a wave of his hand, walks to his room. The two men disperse, unsure as to what will happen next.
INT. FACTORY OFFICES - DAY
An overhead board says “FINANCE DEPARTMENT.” The FINANCE MANAGER is in his office then leaves. JOANNE CABRERA sees this, and approaches. A few seconds after, sensing an opportunity, JOANNE CABRERA slowly walks towards his corner office.
JOANNE CABRERA turns around, and looks at the rest of the staff. They have their backs to the FINANCE MANAGER’s office as they look at their spreadsheets on their computer monitors. Fortunately for JOANNE CABRERA there are blinds that cover the glass partition.
INT. FINANCE MANAGER OFFICE - DAY
JOANNE CABRERA quietly walks inside his office and slowly closes the blinds, then goes to the filing cabinet beside the desk.
Fortunately the filing cabinet is unlocked. But she has to hurry as the FINANCE MANAGER can arrive at any time and catch her in the act. She slowly pulls the top filing cabinet, where he keeps the contracts. Only five minutes had elapsed since he left.
Security. Water. Canteen. Raw materials. Uniforms. Plus a bunch of other contracts. But she cannot find the one for coal. Then she gets to the last Manila envelope. It is unmarked. JOANNE CABRERA pulls it out slowly and opens it.
There it is. The coal contract. But JOANNE CABRERA notes with surprise that it is only five pages long. There are none of the long stipulations used in the lengthy twenty-page contracts they use for their other suppliers. But she can analyze the details of this contract later.
She looks through the blinds. The staff are still staring at their computer monitors.
Suddenly she remembers she has a smartphone. She takes it out, and carefully takes photos of each page. When she is done, with her heartbeat racing, she slowly returns the envelope to the filing drawer and carefully closes it.
She walks out calmly and places her phone back in her purse.
INT. FACTORY CORRIDOR - DAY
At the corridor leading to the Finance Department she comes face to face with the FINANCE MANAGER, who has just reentered.
FINANCE MANAGER
Hi Joanne. What brings you to our Department?
JOANNE CABRERA
Oh nothing. I was just in the area. Have to run. Bye.
Her heart races as she walks past him.
FINANCE MANAGER
Okay. You better get something to eat. You look like you’ve seen a ghost.
JOANNE CABRERA hears that as she exits .
EXT. HOTEL POOLSIDE - NIGHT
BILL FRANCISCO enters. He joins JOANNE CABRERA, KATHRYN FRANCISCO and GEORGE FRANCISCO at the dining table.
BILL FRANCISCO
JACK PEREZ is okay now. He’s back at work but still partially recovering. For now, he’s taken over from RAMON MAYAGUEZ. Our staff meetings have resumed again.
JOANNE CABRERA
I wonder why.
BILL FRANCISCO
Even RAMON MAYAGUEZ is a bit more pleasant and a bit more reserved. He doesn’t seem to project the air of aggressiveness that I remember when we first met.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Dad, we're getting sick of the food here. It’s always the same. Can’t we eat out?
BILL FRANCISCO
Son, just bear with the situation. It’s a bit unusual as you know.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
It’s just getting to me.
BILL FRANCISCO
Just look at the bright side son. You’re getting a free vacation. Anyway, we’ll be going home soon. I’ll be done here in a few weeks.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Sorry Dad. Mom and I are okay.
BILL FRANCISCO
We’re doing something good here. Not just for the environment, but also something to break the hold of certain families on this island.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
I know Dad.
BILL FRANCISCO
I promise you, you’ll feel good inside once we accomplish this. It’s not something many people your age can say that they’ve accomplished.
GEORGE FRANCISCO
Sorry if I forgot the big picture. I’ll always keep that in mind Dad.
BILL FRANCISCO taps his son’s shoulder with his right hand and looks him in the eye. GEORGE FRANCISCO nods and waves goodbye to go back to his room.
KATHRYN FRANCISCO
I’ll let you and JOANNE CABRERA talk. I’ll just go upstairs as well honey.
BILL FRANCISCO
(kissing his wife
on the cheek)
Okay honey.
KATHRYN FRANCISCO walks away.
BILL FRANCISCO
I can talk confidently to my son about the good we’re doing, but not about my own fears.
JOANNE CABRERA
What do you mean?
BILL FRANCISCO
I just can’t tell them that I’m still afraid this will all backfire and the bad guys will win. How will this end?
JOANNE CABRERA
Yes. But I have the stuff you asked for.
BILL FRANCISCO
Huh? Where is it? How’d you do it?
JOANNE CABRERA nervously scans the hotel poolside. She doesn’t see any suspicious characters, so she relaxes a bit.
JOANNE CABRERA
Well fortunately, he stepped out briefly. Good for us that he carelessly forgot to close the filing cabinet when he left.
BILL FRANCISCO
Really?
JOANNE CABRERA
So I hurriedly went through his files, and fortunately, I saw that the coal contract was in a brown unmarked envelope.
BILL FRANCISCO
You copied the contract?
JOANNE CABRERA
No. I pulled it out but I didn’t have the time to photocopy it downstairs, but I managed to get a high resolution image of the supply contract with my smartphone.
BILL FRANCISCO
Where is it?
JOANNE CABRERA
Here it is on my cell phone, the five-page contract. Don’t worry it’s clear and very readable and it’s saved as a PDF document.
BILL FRANCISCO and JOANNE CABRERA glance at the contract while trying their best to read it in the zoomed mode.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay, so what are we looking at that is out of the ordinary here?
JOANNE CABRERA
It took me a day of thinking to realize what this is. It’s really more of what’s not in the contract rather than what’s in it. This coal supply contract doesn’t have an expiration or a termination clause.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay. But is that a smoking gun?
JOANNE CABRERA
It doesn’t use our standard twenty-page template with all the protection clauses we typically use. Instead, we have this five-page contract where many of the parts have been left blank.
BILL FRANCISCO
I still don’t get it.
JOANNE CABRERA
In particular, we need to have a clause in all our supplier contracts that stipulates that normally a supply agreement with a party lasts for a year or two and then we renew it subject to our review of the supplier’s performance.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay. I’m sort of following you.
JOANNE CABRERA
It’s a contract to supply coal forever to us. There’s no rebidding clause. They get to name their price and we don’t even object. We just pay what they ask in perpetuity.
BILL FRANCISCO is stunned.
BILL FRANCISCO
They can do that?
JOANNE CABRERA
They’re doing it, with this contract. This has been going on for years now. I’m not sure if there’s enough for a criminal liability here. I’m not a lawyer. But at the very least this should get all of them fired.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay, send me this PDF document via Bluetooth to my phone.
JOANNE CABRERA complies and BILL FRANCISCO gets the file.
BILL FRANCISCO
Good job. Go ahead and finish your dinner, sorry. Have a drink on me. Thank you for this.
JOANNE CABRERA
Hope it is helpful.
BILL FRANCISCO
It is. I’m not sure about the extent of who is involved and how big this is. This thing looks really deep and entrenched. I’ll email it on my phone to the DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN and you.
He types a quick email to DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN with a short explanation. He then attaches the contract PDF. He waits for a few agonizing seconds as if unsure if he wants to press the send email button.
Then he presses send, and the email is sent. JOANNE CABRERA barely touches her food and has just taken a few mouthfuls.
JOANNE CABRERA
I don’t have much of an appetite tonight frankly. But what I’d like to know is, am I covered by headquarters on this? It’s hard to get a job, let alone once I’m labeled a whistleblower.
BILL FRANCISCO looks at JOANNE CABRERA.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well, the good news is they can’t legally fire us without proper cause.
JOANNE CABRERA
I’m glad there’s good news.
BILL FRANCISCO
We’re acting on the expressed directives of the Board, so we are doing what we are supposed to do.
JOANNE CABRERA
I’m just worried they may strike back at us.
BILL FRANCISCO
Maybe they can harass you within the scope of their authority like what RAMON MAYAGUEZ tried the other day in assigning you to the other plant.
JOANNE CABRERA
And the bad news?
BILL FRANCISCO
After what happened to JACK PEREZ, I frankly don’t know what they’re capable of doing. All I can say is, let’s watch our backs for now.
JOANNE CABRERA
From what I know about the old man ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ, he’s always had a good untainted reputation on this island. No bribes, nothing, let alone anything more unsavory than that.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well, I don’t really know much about ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ.
JOANNE CABRERA
But his relatives and the younger generation, I don’t know.
BILL FRANCISCO
Let’s watch out for each other’s backs. I’ve sent the email to DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN. Let’s see where this leads.
JOANNE CABRERA
Okay. I better turn in.
BILL FRANCISCO
Yes, we better. Tomorrow might be a long day.
BILL FRANCISCO and JOANNE CABRERA exit.
INT. CAR - DAY
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN calls back BILL FRANCISCO after the end of the second day.
BILL FRANCISCO enters, with a phone in his ear.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
BILL FRANCISCO, I have some important news for you. I got your email the other day. That was a good catch, I must say.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’m listening.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
The Board called an emergency meeting without ROBERTO CORRALEZ and agreed to fire all of them. ROBERTO CORRALEZ, CEO LESTER REEVES, RAMON MAYAGUEZ and the FINANCE MANAGER after seeing the coal supply contract.
BILL FRANCISCO
Wow. That’s big news!
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
This looks pretty clear cut. The PDF document that you sent showed it clearly in black and white. Having a supply contract with no termination clause means this multi-million contract had not been rebid out to other parties ever since the start.
BILL FRANCISCO
All under our noses.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
There’s not even a negotiation on price. And I think that goes back ten years at least. It has never been audited, for some reason.
BILL FRANCISCO
Too many pockets were probably being greased. RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s family is really powerful here.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
But the Company does not and will not tolerate this, no matter who does it and for whatever reason.
BILL FRANCISCO
I agree. This has likely been going on for years, and we never smelled a whiff.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
Personally, I had never liked ROBERTO CORRALEZ. There was just something about him I couldn’t place. Too much swagger initially I thought. Turns out this was it.
BILL FRANCISCO
Everyone was scared of RAMON MAYAGUEZ here. Even JACK PEREZ is a bit wary of his deputy.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
Well, that’s no longer the case. They’re all fired now.
BILL FRANCISCO
That’s a relief.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
Oh, by the way. Confidentially but as you might expect the Board is searching for a replacement for former CEO LESTER REEVES. Off the record, you’re on the short list. So I need to ask you. Do you want it?
BILL FRANCISCO is speechless at first.
BILL FRANCISCO
Uhh, yes sir I do. Maybe just too much has happened. I need to talk to my wife and son.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
I understand. In any case, CHAIRMAN LOU SMITH will take over in a hold-over capacity.
BILL FRANCISCO
My head is still spinning. Too much is happening too fast, though in a good way.
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
In the meantime, you report anything you see directly to me and I’ll relay it to him. Gotta go. Give my regards to JACK PEREZ.
BILL FRANCISCO
I will sir. Can I just ask where CEO LESTER REEVES is now?
DIRECTOR ERIC MCGAVIN
I don’t know. Like I said as of noon today, he and ROBERTO CORRALEZ, as well as RAMON MAYAGUEZ and the Finance manager have been fired from Concept Corporation.
INT. FACTORY FRONT DESK - DAY
There is a bit of commotion as RAMON MAYAGUEZ and the FINANCE MANAGER are escorted by security out of the plant. RAMON MAYAGUEZ and the FINANCE MANAGER and security men cut across BILL FRANCISCO, JACK PEREZ, JOANNE CABRERA and the staff. RAMON MAYAGUEZ chooses to avert his eyes from BILL FRANCISCO and the rest of the staff.
INT. FACTORY BOARDROOM - DAY
After the commotion, they all sit down on the conference table.
BILL FRANCISCO
As you know, much has happened during these last few days. But let me just inform you, as the representative of corporate HQ here, these shenanigans will no longer be tolerated in the Company.
The employees applaud that.
BILL FRANCISCO
To move that forward, the Company has informed me that it has decided that JACK PEREZ will be the permanent factory manager. He will also take over RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s deputy duties in the meantime.
There is a round of applause after he says that.
JACK PEREZ
Just to add to that, JOANNE CABRERA will be my deputy manager and project lead to make that happen.
More applause.
JACK PEREZ
If anyone complains, tell me. There are a lot of engineering studies we need to do to move this corporate renewable energy goal forward.
For the first time in years, a new dynamic energy infuses the room, as most of the staff are young and newly hired.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well you better submit that budget request immediately so it can be approved in time for the next quarter. After all, that’s just a few days away.
JOANNE CABRERA
The engineers and the finance staff members will finish discussing and finalizing it in the next few days. Don’t worry.
The local management team again applauds that particular comment. Side discussions erupt among the various junior staff. It is as if a knife is being pulled out of someone. There seems to be a collective sigh of relief from the whole group.
They discuss a few more items. Then JACK PEREZ adjourns the meeting as it is getting late.
JACK PEREZ
See you tomorrow in the airport. I know you only have a few hours left in Santa Clarita, but watch your back.
BILL FRANCISCO
I will.
JACK PEREZ
They are still a powerful family on this island. Well I can’t prove anything, but you do know what happened to me a few days ago.
BILL FRANCISCO
I’ll be careful.
They all exit.
EXT. PARK/FIELD NEAR HOTEL - DAY
BILL FRANCISCO decides to take a walk outside before the sun disappears on the horizon. It is truly a majestic island.
Suddenly several men enter and block his path.
BILL FRANCISCO's heartbeat races. He is trapped. There is no other person in sight. And it is almost dark. After all he has accomplished with his life, is he simply destined to die here, amidst the tall sugarcane? He wonders if he can still walk out of this situation alive.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ enters in a rumpled white suit and walks towards him. No one else moves. The old man limps with a cane and walks slowly towards him. The old man looks vaguely like RAMON MAYAGUEZ, but much older with a white head of hair.
The other men stay a safe and non-threatening distance from him.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I am ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ. I am RAMON MAYAGUEZ's father.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ extends his hand and on impulse BILL FRANCISCO shakes it. It is a firm grip. The old man does not make any sudden moves, but only moves his hands to his sides slowly.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ and the FINANCE MANAGER enter.
But they both maintain their distance along with the bodyguards that accompany the party. They all look at BILL FRANCISCO and ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I apologize for my son's actions, and I have told him and his uncle to accept their fate and just work for me. I am an old man now.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well yes but--
BILL FRANCISCO suddenly decides not to say too much. ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ halts briefly and looks at the sky.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
--I told them, we have already made our fortune, and now it is time for us to give back to the environment and to the island.
BILL FRANCISCO
I got a threatening letter a few days ago.
BILL FRANCISCO slowly pulls out the threatening letter from his shirt pocket and gives it to ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ opens it, reads it, and looks at it for a minute as if deep in thought. He then slowly tears it apart. The torn pieces of paper land near both their shoes.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
That supplier will have to deal with me if he persists in this harassment.
BILL FRANCISCO looks at his shoes, where some of the torn paper has landed.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I am deeply sorry for that threatening letter. You are our guest on this island.
BILL FRANCISCO does not answer.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
This threat to you and your family is not the way I do business, but maybe some of the younger ones do not know that. Expect no more harassment of any kind from anyone, else they will have to answer to me.
BILL FRANCISCO
Thank you for that reassurance.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
We will not stand in the way of renewable energy if that is what you want to do with the Concept plants here.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ approaches him and shakes his hand.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
You know what’s funny? During my time, people wanted the sugar and burned the waste bagasse because no one wanted it. Now it is the other way around.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ then turns around and walks slowly to exit where he is followed by RAMON MAYAGUEZ and the former FINANCE MANAGER. He turns to face BILL FRANCISCO.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
People try to avoid sugar, but then they want the bagasse sugarcane waste, which belongs to the farmers according to the law. Go figure that one. I can’t. Goodbye.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ holds his palm up as in to make a half-hearted wave to BILL FRANCISCO before his exit.
BILL FRANCISCO slowly acknowledges it. The final wisps of daylight are disappearing.
BILL FRANCISCO is still quite shaken.
INT. FACTORY BOARDROOM - DAY
JOANNE CABRERA, JACK PEREZ and BILL FRANCISCO enter.
JACK PEREZ
For ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ to say that meant that you must have really delivered a compelling message.
BILL FRANCISCO
Let’s hope he means it Jack.
JACK PEREZ
I hope he means that their family will no longer stand in the way of new businesses who want to go into renewable energy.
BILL FRANCISCO
This could alter the balance of power here. Biomass power could be that wind of change.
JACK PEREZ
That has always been my father’s dream.
BILL FRANCISCO
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ even said that people now try to avoid sugar, but now want the bagasse waste which they do not own.
JOANNE CABRERA
By the way, congratulations.
BILL FRANCISCO
Congratulations for what?
JACK PEREZ and JOANNE CABRERA laugh at each other.
JOANNE CABRERA
Is your phone off or something?
BILL FRANCISCO
Actually, yes it is. I forgot to charge it. Why what’s up?
JACK PEREZ
The Board unanimously appointed you CEO last night. They’ve been calling you ever since.
BILL FRANCISCO gets handshakes and congratulations.
BILL FRANCISCO
Wow. I was told I was on the short list, but I didn’t know they would act on it so soon. Don’t mention this to KATHRYN and GEORGE FRANCISCO. I’ll tell them when we’re on the plane.
BILL FRANCISCO sees that the line to the aircraft starts to move.
BILL FRANCISCO
Let’s talk soon via phone conference how we will do this transition to renewables for Santa Clarita. Anyway, we're boarding now. I’ll see you guys soon.
BILL FRANCISCO and his family walk towards the aircraft.
JOANNE CABRERA
(turns to JACK PEREZ)
JACK PEREZ, can we actually do this? Can we run the plant on renewable energy?
JACK PEREZ
It's all a matter of will. If we reach the destination, that’s great. But it’s the journey to try and get to renewable energy that matters.
JOANNE CABRERA
Okay. We better get back to the office and get started.
JACK PEREZ and JOANNE CABRERA walk away.
INT. JACK PEREZ’S HOUSE - NIGHT
The phone rings at JACK PEREZ’s house. JACK PEREZ enters, and picks up the phone.
JACK PEREZ
Hello?
EDUARDO PEREZ
(via speakerphone)
Jack?
JACK PEREZ
Dad?
EDUARDO PEREZ
Yes son. How are you?
JACK PEREZ sits down, overcome with emotion.
JACK PEREZ
Dad. I’m okay. I’m still the plant manager. They fired RAMON MAYAGUEZ. We found out he had been doing some unscrupulous activities with some suppliers. Sorry I really can’t discuss it.
EDUARDO PEREZ
That’s fine son. That’s not why I’m calling.
JACK PEREZ
Okay Dad. Why’d you call?
EDUARDO PEREZ
Well son, how would you feel about helping our farmer’s cooperative start a biomass power facility? All sorts of bankers and investors want to invest in us.
JACK PEREZ
Really Dad?
EDUARDO PEREZ pauses.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Yes. As you know the farmers' coop owns all the bagasse and biomass waste, under the law. Can you come home and help me sort all this out?
JACK PEREZ
I’d have to leave my career Dad.
EDUARDO PEREZ
If we can pull this off, this would be good for all the farmers. We won’t be slaves anymore on this island. I know nothing about finance and making something big out of this. I’m just a farmer.
JACK PEREZ
I-I have to talk to Sylvia about it. It does mean I may have to give up my retirement at Concept, and that’s not a joke if I do join you on this. (PAUSE) Give me a few days at least.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Okay son. I don’t want to force you to do anything you don’t want.
JACK PEREZ
I’ll talk to Sylvia Dad.
EDUARDO PEREZ
By the way, before I forget. If we will do this, I would like you to take as your understudy a young man who works for me. He reminds me so much of you.
JACK PEREZ
Joachim? Bill told me Dad.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Joachim has been reading up on biomass boiler technology and cogeneration. He is still finishing his engineering degree part-time, but he is really interested in biomass power generation and waste heat cogeneration.
JACK PEREZ
I’m sure we can use him.
EDUARDO PEREZ
If we don’t end up doing this, maybe you can hire him as an engineer at Concept.
JACK PEREZ
Bill also told me he met you by chance.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Yes, we did a few days ago. So you see, this is really meant to happen, my son. I hope you will still allow me to call you that.
JACK PEREZ
Of course Dad. Sorry about all that. Our disagreement was in the past. Anyway, maybe you’re right. Maybe this was meant to be. But I really have to discuss it with Sylvia.
EDUARDO PEREZ
No problem. Get back to me as soon as you can before these bankers change their minds.
JACK PEREZ
Thanks Dad. I’ll call you soon.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Thanks son. It feels good to talk to you again. Bye.
EDUARDO PEREZ hangs up. JACK PEREZ paces around.
INT. FACTORY BOARDROOM - DAY
JACK PEREZ and JOANNE CABRERA enter.
JOANNE CABRERA
Sorry to bring this up. But over these past few days, you seem to be out of it.
JACK PEREZ
Sorry. There’s something I need to tell you and BILL FRANCISCO. Can we call him by speakerphone now?
JOANNE CABRERA
Okay I guess. I hope you are still interested in this factory migration to renewable energy.
They sit down on a conference table and dial BILL FRANCISCO in.
JOANNE CABRERA
Hi Bill!
BILL FRANCISCO
(via speakerphone)
Hey guys, what’s up?
JOANNE CABRERA
Jack says he has something urgent to tell us.
JACK PEREZ
I don’t know how to break this to you guys. But a few days ago, my Dad, well you’ve met him Bill.
BILL FRANCISCO
Yes, of course. Is he okay?
JACK PEREZ
Yes he’s okay. But he wants me to help him out with something. Their farmers’ cooperative is getting a lot of interested investors wanting to support their desire to put up a biomass power plant.
BILL FRANCISCO
That’s good!
JACK PEREZ
Well I’m thinking of helping him out. And of course, I’d need to leave the Company.
BILL FRANCISCO
Oh. Wait! Are you sure about this Jack? We really need you down there.
JOANNE CABRERA
Yes Jack. Are you sure about this?
JACK PEREZ
Yes, I’ve had a few days to think about it. I can stay for a few weeks to advise the replacement. Actually Joanne, I’m thinking of you to replace me, at least in the interim.
BILL FRANCISCO
Well Jack I can understand how you feel. And if I were in your shoes I’d probably feel the same way. There is your retirement though. You do realize you’ll only probably get a fraction of it.
JACK PEREZ
I do realize that. But I think the time I can spend with my father and the time he has left is priceless. Plus if we succeed, we will really change the dynamics in this island.
BILL FRANCISCO
But Jack–-
JACK PEREZ
–-Don’t worry Bill. Joanne is a very capable engineer and manager. She can handle it.
BILL FRANCISCO
I know.
JACK PEREZ
I don’t think I can stay three more years here just to wait for my retirement. That’s a pretty long time considering the possibilities that have erupted after these past few days.
BILL FRANCISCO
Have you really thought about this?
JACK PEREZ
I’ve thought about this and discussed it with my wife. So after carefully considering everything, I think my decision is final.
BILL FRANCISCO.
I don’t know Jack. I’d really like to keep you here.
JACK PEREZ
Do you remember that young sugar worker JOACHIM TERESO? The one you said you met a few days ago? My father said that he would like Joachim to be my understudy.
BILL FRANCISCO.
Yes, of course.
JACK PEREZ
My father said that a lot of banks and investors are talking to their farmers’ cooperative about the biomass that our farmer’s coop owns, technically by law. If we don’t seize the opportunity now, we may lose this opportunity to other groups.
BILL FRANCISCO.
I understand.
JACK PEREZ
Think of the hundreds of sugar workers who will benefit if the banks and investors allow us to set up our own biomass power plant. We might just eventually end up supplying the company the steam it needs through the farmers coop biomass if ever it takes off.
BILL FRANCISCO
Okay, I’m sold. Go out there and change Santa Clarita. Maybe at the appropriate time in the future, once things have cleared, both our groups can work together. Subject to Board approval of course.
JACK PEREZ
I would not have it any other way.
BILL FRANCISCO.
Joanne, so I’m designating you as the acting factory manager when Jack steps down. Jack just help her out for the next few weeks as we process your transition. Good luck to you, your father and what you’ll be trying to do.
JACK PEREZ
Thanks Bill. I will help out.
INT. BANK BOARDROOM - DAY
The members of the Bank of Santa Clarita Board enter the Board room with RAMON MAYAGUEZ and ROBERTO CORRALEZ. They all take their seats around the conference table.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
This Board meeting of the Bank of Santa Clarita is called to order. For our only agenda item, there is this matter of the biomass cogeneration facility. The farmers’ cooperative has incorporated a new legal entity with some investors and is looking at a loan of US30M for the facility, payable in ten years’ time at the interest rate we have quoted with them.
The Bank Board members scan the document given to them.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
Now I have looked at their proposal and the numbers and they do make sense. Their plan long term is to sell their power and some of their excess steam to nearby companies such as the Concept factory. Plus they are now headed by JACK PEREZ, the former plant manager at the Concept factory.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ whispers something in RAMON MAYAGUEZ’s ear.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
I believe the Board has seen the numbers. Let’s put it to a vote. All those in favor please say so, all those against please register your objections as well.
Suddenly, ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ enters the Boardroom. ROBERTO CORRALEZ quickly huddles with him. BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ sees him.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ as a minority shareholder of this bank it is good you could join us for this vote on the loan for the $30M loan for the biomass cogeneration facility. The other Board members and the management team have looked at the farmer’s cooperative’s proposal and their numbers and we believe they are sound. So we are proposing for the approval of this loan for--
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
--Just a moment. Before we approve this, we need to ask for something important here.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ sit at the back while ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ takes over the Board seat.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
What is it?
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
We have to ask them to sign the rights of the biomass to us since it is we who are loaning them the $30M.
There is some grumbling among the Board members of the Bank.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
Wait. Is that even legally possible? Under the law, the farmers own the biomass. That has been upheld by the courts several times.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
Still it is a fair request.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
I know your family has contested this several times to no avail. I think we have to consult our lawyer here. ROSARIO REYES, what do you think?
ROSARIO REYES (30), the young female lawyer, stands up to address the Board.
ROSARIO REYES
I don’t recommend we do this. I realize that your family has tried to get the rights to the biomass for years. This may not play right if word gets out that the bank is insisting on this.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
What the public thinks is of no consequence to me.
ROSARIO REYES
But you have tried many times before the courts here, and your position has always been rebuffed.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
My position is unless they sign the biomass rights to us, then I am not approving this loan. And let me remind everyone that my family still controls 40% of this Bank. That is my condition for approving it.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ looks disturbed. ROBERTO CORRALEZ strongly nods his head at what ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ has said.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ looks disturbed by ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ’s statement.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
Uhh, can I request the Board to give me some time alone with ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ?
Everyone agrees. They all file out of the room. BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ locks the Boardroom.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
I have known you and your family for many years. And you know why I know that right? Because I was the young banker whom you approached for your sugar mill many decades ago, when you were trying to be somebody on this island.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ is silent.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
I had to argue before the entire Board many years ago why you should be given the sugar mill loan. I can go on from here, but I don’t think you want the rest of the Board members to know the full story.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ does not react, but simply looks at him.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
It just pains me that you cannot accept that maybe your time has passed.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
But I am just--
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
--I know your sugar mill lawyers have tried many times before the courts to have the biomass ownership by the farmers overturned to no avail.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
We are simply trying--
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
--Still you cannot give up? Don’t you realize you need to give others a chance, just as you were given a chance many years ago?
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I know that but we cannot--
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
--I know and have known you to be an honorable and just man. This does not sound like you.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
But we just--
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
--I hope you will reconsider. Now maybe legally our lawyers and the courts can find a way to make that precondition stick. But personally, it leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
We are simply running our--
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
--It is opportunities to serve people like these that the Bank exists for. The operative words being ‘to serve.’ And this is not service!
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ seems taken aback by the Chairman’s speech. He is the same age as the Chairman; both of them are in their twilight years. Their relationship goes back many years.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
Will you give me a few minutes with ROBERTO CORRALEZ and my son RAMON MAYAGUEZ? I would just like to discuss this matter with them privately.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
(PAUSE) Okay.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ leaves.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ and RAMON MAYAGUEZ both enter. RAMON MAYAGUEZ sits down in front of his father. ROBERTO CORRALEZ remains standing, full of excess energy, and walks back and forth across the Boardroom.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ, don’t fall for this ploy. It is our chance to regain control of this opportunity.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
What do you mean?
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
Why should we let these pitiful farmers become more powerful than us in Santa Clarita? We should use this as a means to put them back in their place.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ is taken aback by ROBERTO CORRALEZ’s statement. He looks at his father. Is he testing him? Does his father want to hear how he will handle ROBERTO CORRALEZ?
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Uncle, why do you look down on farmers that way? These people have broken their backs for us for decades. Without them our sugar mill would not have thrived and made us our fortunes!
ROBERTO CORRALEZ walks around and looks at the portraits of previous bank presidents around the room.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
I have nothing against these farmers. I see them every day. But one day they will take over this island and walk amongst us as equals!
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
What is so bad about that? They are the common working man. They deserve to reach the full fruits of their labor.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
I cannot accept that!
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
Some of them are even more intelligent than us, like JACK PEREZ.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
No I--
RAMON MAYAGUEZ
--It’s just that we have the means to achieve our goals, and often they don’t have that luxury. Sometimes we even botch it up with shortcuts.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ says nothing but smiles at his son’s statement. Still, ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ just looks at the two men arguing before him.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
For our sake, do not let the farmers do this to us. We need to maintain our social status here in Santa Clarita. We need to--
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ suddenly raises his hand.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
--Enough. I have always been your older cousin, and we have been through tough times together. But aside from our blood relationship, we seem to have a very different view of the world and how it should work.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
I--
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
--You seem to think that everything we get is because we are entitled to rule this island. But let me tell you, many years ago, it was not like that.
The father and son exchange glances.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I built this family’s fortune from nothing. Without this Bank, we would not be where we are now.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ takes his seat. He looks like a beaten man, and hunches over the Boardroom table.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I agree with what my son has said. I was lucky enough to be given a chance many years ago, and I think I need to give the farmers a chance as well.
RAMON MAYAGUEZ smiles at his father.
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
I have made my decision. I will ask the Bank Board to approve the loan to the farmers without preconditions. You either need to accept it or leave.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ looks at ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ and his nephew RAMON MAYAGUEZ.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ
You are right. All that we have is a blood relationship. Maybe nothing more. You are making a big mistake, both of you. I hope you know what you are doing.
ROBERTO CORRALEZ then turns around, and slams the door loudly before he exits.
The door then opens, and the Board members and BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ reenter the Boardroom to resume their discussions.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
Well?
ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ
After carefully thinking about this, and discussing it with my family, we now agree to support this loan to the farmers’ cooperative.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
All those in favor of the loan say aye.
A roll call yields all Ayes.
BANK CHAIRMAN ARTURO VELASQUEZ
The vote is unanimous. The motion is passed. The $30M bank loan for the biomass power plant is approved. Our meeting is now adjourned.
Everyone files out of the boardroom. Antonio and the Bank Chairman have eye contact, then Antonio leaves.
INT. EDUARDO PEREZ’S HOUSE - NIGHT
JOACHIM TERESO, EDUARDO PEREZ, JACK PEREZ, and SYLVIA PEREZ sit down for dinner. They are enjoying their shrimp pasta when suddenly the radio announcer mentions the news they have been waiting for.
RADIO ANNOUNCER
(V.O.)
In other news, the sugarcane farmer’s cooperative has now been awarded a $30M loan by the Bank of Santa Clarita to develop a sugarcane biomass cogeneration power plant on the island to supply the power and steam needs of nearby factories in the area.
JACK PEREZ
When exactly did you find out that the loan was a go, Dad? You didn’t seem surprised.
JACK PEREZ looks at his father.
JACK PEREZ
I told the banker I wanted to surprise you when he told me the loan was approved the other day, but apparently you have your own sources.
JOACHIM TERESO gets another serving of the shrimp pasta.
EDUARDO PEREZ stands up, exits. He returns with a bottle of expensive looking cognac.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Well, ANTONIO MAYAGUEZ came and visited me by himself yesterday. He even brought me this nice bottle of cognac, which I was saving, but for an occasion like this, maybe we should drink it.
JACK PEREZ
What did he say?
The father pours cognac for everyone.
EDUARDO PEREZ
It was the first time he opened up to me, about how he started in this business, the challenges he had convincing the bank to loan him money.
JOACHIM TERESO
His early days? That’s nice.
EDUARDO PEREZ
He seemed envious as to what we are planning with this biomass plant, but at the same time also excited for us.
JOACHIM TERESO
Wish I could have been there.
EDUARDO PEREZ
He said there was some problem initially with the loan, and he could not really talk about the discussions they had as it was confidential, but apparently they were able to work it out.
JACK PEREZ
How was he, father?
JOACHIM TERESO is chewing his pasta but listens intently to the father and son exchange.
EDUARDO PEREZ
I think he realizes the baton has been passed to the next runner, and as much as he probably hates to do that, he knows there is nothing he and his family can do to stop that change.
JOACHIM TERESO
Maybe this is the revolution that people have been talking about.
JACK PEREZ
Maybe. Actually, we just laid the groundwork. You young ones are the ones who will make this revolution happen. Father, maybe you should lead the toast.
Everyone stands up with a drink in hand.
EDUARDO PEREZ
Remember this night. I may not be around for long, but savor this moment. This may be the beginning of a new chapter for the lives of the sugarcane workers of Santa Clarita. This night needs to forever remain etched in our collective memories as the day that a new dawn in Santa Clarita began.
JACK PEREZ
Here here. It will forever be for us the end of an era, and the beginning of another.
FADE TO BLACK:
CLOSING MUSIC
CREDITS
THE END
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