Okay folks, there is actually a magazine out there titled "Hauntworld" and whatsmore -- it's issued ITS LIST of the scariest places in the US!f October
The press release indicates it's "the Halloween and haunt industry's leading trade publication" -- which I personally didn't know ONE magazine in this area existed let alone multiple magazines.
But I DO think it's interesting there is a scary list! Is there a scary place near you? Check it out:
Top Professional Haunted Attractions: 2009
The Top 13 Haunted Attractions:
1. 13th Gate Haunted House - Baton Rouge, Louisiana, www.midnightproduction.com
2. Netherworld Haunted House - Atlanta, Georgia, www.fearworld.com
3. The Beast - Kansas City, Missouri, www.kcbeast.com
4. The Darkness Haunted House - St. Louis, Missouri, www.scarefest.com
5. House of Torment - Austin, Texas, www.houseoftorment.com
6. Dent Schoolhouse - Cincinnati, Ohio, www.frightsite.com
7. Bates Motel - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, http://www.thebatesmotel.com
8. Haunted Schoolhouse - Akron, Ohio, www.hshlab.com
9. Bayville Screampark - Long Island, New York, www.bayvillescreampark.com
10. House of Shock - New Orleans, Louisiana, www.houseofshock.com
11. Dead Acres - Columbus, Ohio, www.deadacres.com
12. Headless Horseman - Ulster Park, New York, www.headlesshorseman.com
13. Graystone Manor - Killen, Alabama, www.graystonemanor.net
And to visit a haunted attraction for each day of October, the list continues to include:
1. Cutting Edge Haunted House, Dallas, Texas www.cuttingedgehauntedhouse.com
2. Erebus Haunted House, Pontiac, Michigan www.hauntedpontiac.com
3. Edge of Hell, Kansas City, Missouri www.edgeofhell.com
4. Scarehouse, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania www.scarehouse.com
5. Creepyworld, St. Louis, Missouri www.scarefest.com
6. Haunted Overload, Lee, NH www.hauntedoverload.com
7. Atrox Factory, Leeds, Alabama www.atroxfactory.com
8. Fright World, Buffalo, New York www.hauntedbuffalo.com
9. Dreamreapers, Melrose Park, Illinois www.dreamreapers.com
10. Haunted Hotel, San Diego, California www.hauntedhotel.com
11. Fright Kingdom, Nashua, NH www.frightkingdom.com
12. Asylum Haunted House, Denver, Colorado www.getscared.com
13. Spookywoods, High Point, North Carolina www.Spookywoods.com
14. Pirates of Emerson, Fremont, California www.piratesofemerson.com
15. The Asylum, Las Vegas, Nevada www.lasvegashaunts.com
16. Field of Screams, Mountville, PA www.fieldofscreams.com
17. Bennett's Curse, Baltimore, Maryland www.bennettscurse.com
18. Land of Illusion, Middletown, Ohio www.thelandofillusion.com
Top 10 Amusement Park Halloween Events: 2009
1. Universal Studios Horror Nights, Orlando, FL - www.halloweenhorrornights.com
2. Knott's Scary Farm, Los Angeles, CA - www.halloweenhaunt.com
3. Tampa Busch Gardens, Tampa, FL - www.howl-o-scream.com
4. Universal Studios Horror Nights, Hollywood, CA - www.halloweenhorrornights.com
5. Kennywood Amusement Park, Pittsburgh, PA - www.kennywood.com
6. Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, PA - www.howl-o-scream.com
7. King's Island Haunt, Cincinnati, OH - www.visitkingsisland.com
8. Cedar Point Haunt, Sandusky, OH - www.cedarpoint.com
9. Six Flags Fright Fest, NJ - www.frightfest.com
10. Old Tucson Studios Nightfall, Tucson, AZ - www.oldtucson.com
Best Screamparks/Haunted Hayrides: 2009
1. Headless Horseman, Ulster Park, New York www.headlesshorseman.com
2. Bates Motel, Glen Mills, Pennsylvania www.thebatesmotel.com
3. Shocktoberfest, Reading, Pennsylvania www.shocktoberfest.com
4. Field of Screams, Mountville, PA www.fieldofscreams.com
5. Creepyworld, St. Louis, MO www.scarefest.com
6. Spookywoods, High Point, North Carolina www.spookywoods.com
7. Bayville Screampark, Long Island, New York www.bayvillescreampark.com
8. Jason's Woods, Lancaster, Pennsylvania www.jasonswoods.com
9. Halloween Park, Strinestown, Pennsylvania, www.halloweenpark.com
10. 7 Floors of Hell, Cleveland, Ohio www.7floorsofhell.com
Top 5 Places to get Scared in America: 2009
1. Salem, Massachusetts www.salem.org
2. Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada www.cliftonhill.ca
3. Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California, www.winchestermysteryhouse.com
4. The Mortuary Haunted House, New Orleans, Louisiana at www.themortuary.net
5. Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, Kentucky www.therealwaverlyhills.com
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Are You Fierce Enough?
What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas: BUT..you’ve got to get there first! Here is a little motivation though – the Wynn will host a SINGLE LADIES DANCE CONTEST! Seriously – Imagine being out there, and finding your one true raw talent could win a fun competition and add a few memories to your personal collection.
Naturally, there is a prize – so, if you win, the Wynn will offer you front row tickets to Beyonce’s “I AM…YOURS” concert at the Encore Theater.
So here is the need to know details as this competition is OPEN to the public!– TRYST NIGHTCLUB (Las Vegas, Nevada) – is the place to be in order to compete. Tryst Nightclub invites groups of three dancers to compete in the qualifying round on Saturday, July 25 at 6 p.m. The final round will be held on Thursday, July 30. A panel of judges will choose the prize winners based on originality, execution, costumes and overall "fierce" factor.
The winning trio will receive three front row tickets to Beyonce, a resort room for the night, pre-show pampering at the salon and a VIP table at Tryst. Second place dancers will receive three tickets and a VIP table at Tryst, third place group will receive a Beyonce gift bag valued at $500.
Contestants should pre-register by calling (702) 770-7115. Registration for the qualifying round on Thursday, July 25 at Tryst will start promptly at 6 p.m. All contestants must be over 21 and show valid ID at the door. Dance must be to the first 60 seconds of "Single Ladies" by Beyonce. Music will be provided. Each group should have three dancers. Attire is nightclub fashion chic. All contestants must sign waivers at registration. This event is open to the public.
If you register, be sure to ask if there is a list for competitors to get through the line. My personal opinion – this IS one of the hottest nightclubs in Vegas and THIS is something you may want to have a game plan for. Last time I was there, the line stretched, wound and continued to grow throughout the casino. I still wonder if all waiting, made it in to experienced the rhythmic decadence. AGAIN, if you register ASK if competitors have an in! TRYST is fantastic fun, good people running the place – it feels secure and is always very clean.
This truly sounds fun to me – and if you go, compete or for that matter, win, lemme know and send me pics of YOUR experience!
Source: The Wynn and PrNewswire
Naturally, there is a prize – so, if you win, the Wynn will offer you front row tickets to Beyonce’s “I AM…YOURS” concert at the Encore Theater.
So here is the need to know details as this competition is OPEN to the public!– TRYST NIGHTCLUB (Las Vegas, Nevada) – is the place to be in order to compete. Tryst Nightclub invites groups of three dancers to compete in the qualifying round on Saturday, July 25 at 6 p.m. The final round will be held on Thursday, July 30. A panel of judges will choose the prize winners based on originality, execution, costumes and overall "fierce" factor.
The winning trio will receive three front row tickets to Beyonce, a resort room for the night, pre-show pampering at the salon and a VIP table at Tryst. Second place dancers will receive three tickets and a VIP table at Tryst, third place group will receive a Beyonce gift bag valued at $500.
Contestants should pre-register by calling (702) 770-7115. Registration for the qualifying round on Thursday, July 25 at Tryst will start promptly at 6 p.m. All contestants must be over 21 and show valid ID at the door. Dance must be to the first 60 seconds of "Single Ladies" by Beyonce. Music will be provided. Each group should have three dancers. Attire is nightclub fashion chic. All contestants must sign waivers at registration. This event is open to the public.
If you register, be sure to ask if there is a list for competitors to get through the line. My personal opinion – this IS one of the hottest nightclubs in Vegas and THIS is something you may want to have a game plan for. Last time I was there, the line stretched, wound and continued to grow throughout the casino. I still wonder if all waiting, made it in to experienced the rhythmic decadence. AGAIN, if you register ASK if competitors have an in! TRYST is fantastic fun, good people running the place – it feels secure and is always very clean.
This truly sounds fun to me – and if you go, compete or for that matter, win, lemme know and send me pics of YOUR experience!
Source: The Wynn and PrNewswire
Upcoming Film Festival for the Online
Film Festivals seem to be popping up everywhere – and while the availability of technology has undoubtedly spurred a continued growth in opportunity and for that matter, events generate revenue for those communities acting as home to sponsoring organization – technology also offers knowledge of much to do with film festivals.
The Haydenfilms 4.0 Online Film Festival out of Pennsylvanian will host its Awards Ceremony as part of this year's 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival being held in Los Angeles from August 6 through 13. The Haydenfilms ceremony is on Friday, Aug. 7 at 7 p.m. (Pacific Time) at the Laemmle Sunset 5 Theater at 8400 Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood.
Showcasing more than 140 selections of what it’s judges and peers consider to be the world’s best and brightest, you will be able to find -- short films, videos and webisodes of 30 minutes or less at high-profile venues throughout Hollywood.
And yes, it’s truly and event as the week’s itinerary reflect, a number of receptions, Q&A sessions, networking events, panel discussions as well as forums.
Festival kick off is August 6th at Hollywood's Directors Guild of America Theatre with a special award showcase of three shorts shot by acclaimed cinematographer Darren Lee and directed by Demi Moore, Kirsten Dunst and Carter Smith. Opening night also will mark the special presentation of the HollyShorts and Haydenfilms Indie Film Visionary Award to Eli Roth.
Other high profile shorts screening during the opening night event include "Kidnapping Caitlynn," a short film starring Jason Biggs ("American Pie"), Julie Benz ("Dexter") and David Prior's thriller "AM1200." Royalty Rope Events, Inc. presents opening night.
The Haydenfilms online ceremony Aug. 7 will feature the first U.S. screening of Roth's special director's cut of "Cabin Fever." HollyShorts co-founders Theo Dumont and Daniel Sol say they are very excited about this year's event and the expanded role being played by Haydenfilms. "Initially we had no idea the festival would get so much attention," explained Sol. "However, now it annually brings attention and awareness to some really incredible talent.
"HollyShorts' goal is to create a community," adds Sol, "by bringing together a variety of people involved in the film industry so they can benefit each other."
Dumont goes on to say, "One of the most endearing qualities of the festival is its strong attempt to draw in not only professional and more experienced filmmakers, but students as well."
Haydenfilms President Hayden Craddolph said, "Being able to move our annual awards ceremony to HollyShorts and Hollywood this year is a bold step. It will give us even more exposure to our finalists, our online festival and our mission to support young and independent filmmakers."
August 7th, one of four finalists chosen by the public will win the coveted $10,000 grand prize award. The finalists include "Babbage," "The Brass Teapot," "Displaced," and "My Turtle's Name Is Dudley."
Sixteen countries are represented among the 53 semi-finalists and several hundred entries total. The top prize for this year's HollyShorts Film Festival grand winner is a Red One digital camera and Post/VFX package from Clifton Production Services and worth more than $100,000.
For tickets, a complete schedule and other information, go to www.hollyshorts.com or www.haydenfilms.com. Tickets and special passes also available at www.brownpapertickets.com .
SOURCE Haydenfilms.com / PRNewswire
The Haydenfilms 4.0 Online Film Festival out of Pennsylvanian will host its Awards Ceremony as part of this year's 5th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival being held in Los Angeles from August 6 through 13. The Haydenfilms ceremony is on Friday, Aug. 7 at 7 p.m. (Pacific Time) at the Laemmle Sunset 5 Theater at 8400 Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood.
Showcasing more than 140 selections of what it’s judges and peers consider to be the world’s best and brightest, you will be able to find -- short films, videos and webisodes of 30 minutes or less at high-profile venues throughout Hollywood.
And yes, it’s truly and event as the week’s itinerary reflect, a number of receptions, Q&A sessions, networking events, panel discussions as well as forums.
Festival kick off is August 6th at Hollywood's Directors Guild of America Theatre with a special award showcase of three shorts shot by acclaimed cinematographer Darren Lee and directed by Demi Moore, Kirsten Dunst and Carter Smith. Opening night also will mark the special presentation of the HollyShorts and Haydenfilms Indie Film Visionary Award to Eli Roth.
Other high profile shorts screening during the opening night event include "Kidnapping Caitlynn," a short film starring Jason Biggs ("American Pie"), Julie Benz ("Dexter") and David Prior's thriller "AM1200." Royalty Rope Events, Inc. presents opening night.
The Haydenfilms online ceremony Aug. 7 will feature the first U.S. screening of Roth's special director's cut of "Cabin Fever." HollyShorts co-founders Theo Dumont and Daniel Sol say they are very excited about this year's event and the expanded role being played by Haydenfilms. "Initially we had no idea the festival would get so much attention," explained Sol. "However, now it annually brings attention and awareness to some really incredible talent.
"HollyShorts' goal is to create a community," adds Sol, "by bringing together a variety of people involved in the film industry so they can benefit each other."
Dumont goes on to say, "One of the most endearing qualities of the festival is its strong attempt to draw in not only professional and more experienced filmmakers, but students as well."
Haydenfilms President Hayden Craddolph said, "Being able to move our annual awards ceremony to HollyShorts and Hollywood this year is a bold step. It will give us even more exposure to our finalists, our online festival and our mission to support young and independent filmmakers."
August 7th, one of four finalists chosen by the public will win the coveted $10,000 grand prize award. The finalists include "Babbage," "The Brass Teapot," "Displaced," and "My Turtle's Name Is Dudley."
Sixteen countries are represented among the 53 semi-finalists and several hundred entries total. The top prize for this year's HollyShorts Film Festival grand winner is a Red One digital camera and Post/VFX package from Clifton Production Services and worth more than $100,000.
For tickets, a complete schedule and other information, go to www.hollyshorts.com or www.haydenfilms.com. Tickets and special passes also available at www.brownpapertickets.com .
SOURCE Haydenfilms.com / PRNewswire
Monday, July 13, 2009
Do You Love to Chat Baseball?
Baseball fans know how big THIS week is in the world of Baseball!
With All-Star Baseball and the big FanFest, Commissioner Selig to Hold Town Hall Chat on MLB.com!
Tuesday, July 14th, the ever illustrious business mind and watchful eye of baseball will will host an online Town Hall Meeting exclusively on MLB.com from Major League Baseball All-Star FanFest in St. Louis tomorrow, Tuesday, July 14 at 1:30 p.m. EDT.
A live video stream of the interactive chat session with baseball fans will be carried on MLB.com, the official Website of Major League Baseball.
A transcript of the dialogue, as well as an archived replay of the chat will also be available.
The Commissioner will make brief opening remarks and then answer e-mailed questions from fans.
So, if you are a fan – this is for you:
RIGHT NOW, Fans can submit their questions for the Commissioner via e-mail to allstarchat@website.mlb.com
Commissioner Selig will respond to fans' questions in front of a live audience, including members of the media in St. Louis to cover the 80th All-Star Game tomorrow at Busch Stadium.
Source: MLB.com / PR Newswire
With All-Star Baseball and the big FanFest, Commissioner Selig to Hold Town Hall Chat on MLB.com!
Tuesday, July 14th, the ever illustrious business mind and watchful eye of baseball will will host an online Town Hall Meeting exclusively on MLB.com from Major League Baseball All-Star FanFest in St. Louis tomorrow, Tuesday, July 14 at 1:30 p.m. EDT.
A live video stream of the interactive chat session with baseball fans will be carried on MLB.com, the official Website of Major League Baseball.
A transcript of the dialogue, as well as an archived replay of the chat will also be available.
The Commissioner will make brief opening remarks and then answer e-mailed questions from fans.
So, if you are a fan – this is for you:
RIGHT NOW, Fans can submit their questions for the Commissioner via e-mail to allstarchat@website.mlb.com
Commissioner Selig will respond to fans' questions in front of a live audience, including members of the media in St. Louis to cover the 80th All-Star Game tomorrow at Busch Stadium.
Source: MLB.com / PR Newswire
Another IPHONE Ap - This One's For the Snap Happy
HEY --- it’s ANOTHER Iphone Ap! Yup that’s right, another.
This one is called Zipix Lite and touts features like: fully automatic enhancement, no buttons, sliders or drop-down menus, exposure correction, original vs enhanced image comparison and an automatic degradation of image correction – which accounts for fog, mist and smoke.
The application even touts the ability to existing photos enhancement capability as well as my most utilized tool – the crop and zoom function.
I haven’t downloaded this myself but it’s interesting to see yet another option hit the market – especially something dedicated to snap happy picture taking, mobile uploaders!
Source: Zipix, Inc. / PR Newswire
This one is called Zipix Lite and touts features like: fully automatic enhancement, no buttons, sliders or drop-down menus, exposure correction, original vs enhanced image comparison and an automatic degradation of image correction – which accounts for fog, mist and smoke.
The application even touts the ability to existing photos enhancement capability as well as my most utilized tool – the crop and zoom function.
I haven’t downloaded this myself but it’s interesting to see yet another option hit the market – especially something dedicated to snap happy picture taking, mobile uploaders!
Source: Zipix, Inc. / PR Newswire
How Much Do YOU Know About Travel Safety?
Safety Tips to Help Travelers Stay Safe on Vacation or Business
Vacation plans start with the endless shopping and booking of finding the right price to match the right time – packing the right sized items and checking the weather. However, the safe keeping of your personal effects don’t necessarily cross your mind until you wait with hundreds of others at baggage claim or even as you check into your hotel and the concierge takes your bags.
More than one billion travelers stay at U.S. hotels every year. While most enjoy pleasant vacations and business trips, some fall victim to theft, burglary and even assault, crimes that several hotel security veterans say may rise during a recession as hotels cut employee hours and possibly security staff.
This week a company specializing in security – issued a press release with some helpful tips that we thought we’d pass along to you….that way – you can sip your cosmos with ease!
Jack Feingold, a vice president with ADT Security Services, urged vacationers to pay careful attention to their safety and security to avoid becoming a victim of criminals or injured in an emergency.
"When traveling, people tend to be more attractive to thieves looking for easy targets and hotel security is usually the last thing on travelers' minds as they check in to a hotel. But security and safety should be a concern for anyone staying in a hotel this summer," Feingold said.
To reduce the risk of crime or injury during a hotel stay, travelers should follow these safety tips:
-- Avoid rooms with ground- or second-level windows. When possible,
choose a room between the third and sixth floors. Rooms on these
floors are high enough to discourage access from the street, yet are
within reach of most fire-department ladders.
-- Remember to always close and lock your door. Make it a habit to use
all locks, including the deadbolt and chain. If you choose to stay in
a room that faces pools or beach areas, make sure your sliding doors
and windows have sturdy locks.
-- Do not open your door to anyone who knocks unexpectedly. If someone
unexpectedly knocks claiming to be a hotel staff member, call the
front desk to confirm his or her status before opening the door. And
teach children to never open the door without your permission.
-- Park in well-lit areas and as close to the hotel as possible. Many hotel thefts take place in parking lots and structures, so finding a well-lit area to park your car is essential. Women traveling alone should ask for an escort to their cars at night. If possible, use
valet parking services. Valet service allows you to leave and pickup your car at the main entry, while also providing an added layer of security for your vehicle.
-- Take note of the hotel's emergency evacuation plan. As soon as you enter your room, take time to look at the hotel's emergency escape
plan and make a mental note of the nearest emergency exit and how to get there.
-- Choose a hotel with security cameras. Video surveillance cameras can
provide an added layer of security to help prevent theft and
discourage criminals. Hotel cameras should be placed in stairwells, pathways, exercise rooms, parking lots and any other public areas.
Cameras not only help hotel staff track the safety of their visitors, they are also helpful in identifying criminals if a crime does occur.
Feingold said, "The most important thing to keep in mind when on vacation is safety, for you and your family. Taking a few minutes to think about hotel security is not only crucial to a fun, relaxing vacation; it is one of the best safety choices travelers can make."
Source: ADT Security Services / PR Newswire
Vacation plans start with the endless shopping and booking of finding the right price to match the right time – packing the right sized items and checking the weather. However, the safe keeping of your personal effects don’t necessarily cross your mind until you wait with hundreds of others at baggage claim or even as you check into your hotel and the concierge takes your bags.
More than one billion travelers stay at U.S. hotels every year. While most enjoy pleasant vacations and business trips, some fall victim to theft, burglary and even assault, crimes that several hotel security veterans say may rise during a recession as hotels cut employee hours and possibly security staff.
This week a company specializing in security – issued a press release with some helpful tips that we thought we’d pass along to you….that way – you can sip your cosmos with ease!
Jack Feingold, a vice president with ADT Security Services, urged vacationers to pay careful attention to their safety and security to avoid becoming a victim of criminals or injured in an emergency.
"When traveling, people tend to be more attractive to thieves looking for easy targets and hotel security is usually the last thing on travelers' minds as they check in to a hotel. But security and safety should be a concern for anyone staying in a hotel this summer," Feingold said.
To reduce the risk of crime or injury during a hotel stay, travelers should follow these safety tips:
-- Avoid rooms with ground- or second-level windows. When possible,
choose a room between the third and sixth floors. Rooms on these
floors are high enough to discourage access from the street, yet are
within reach of most fire-department ladders.
-- Remember to always close and lock your door. Make it a habit to use
all locks, including the deadbolt and chain. If you choose to stay in
a room that faces pools or beach areas, make sure your sliding doors
and windows have sturdy locks.
-- Do not open your door to anyone who knocks unexpectedly. If someone
unexpectedly knocks claiming to be a hotel staff member, call the
front desk to confirm his or her status before opening the door. And
teach children to never open the door without your permission.
-- Park in well-lit areas and as close to the hotel as possible. Many hotel thefts take place in parking lots and structures, so finding a well-lit area to park your car is essential. Women traveling alone should ask for an escort to their cars at night. If possible, use
valet parking services. Valet service allows you to leave and pickup your car at the main entry, while also providing an added layer of security for your vehicle.
-- Take note of the hotel's emergency evacuation plan. As soon as you enter your room, take time to look at the hotel's emergency escape
plan and make a mental note of the nearest emergency exit and how to get there.
-- Choose a hotel with security cameras. Video surveillance cameras can
provide an added layer of security to help prevent theft and
discourage criminals. Hotel cameras should be placed in stairwells, pathways, exercise rooms, parking lots and any other public areas.
Cameras not only help hotel staff track the safety of their visitors, they are also helpful in identifying criminals if a crime does occur.
Feingold said, "The most important thing to keep in mind when on vacation is safety, for you and your family. Taking a few minutes to think about hotel security is not only crucial to a fun, relaxing vacation; it is one of the best safety choices travelers can make."
Source: ADT Security Services / PR Newswire
Friday, July 10, 2009
Sheet Music for The Kindle - wha? No Way!
FreeHand Systems announces that its Novato Music Press catalog, consisting of over 20,000 classical, traditional and American music titles, is now available for the Amazon Kindle portable reading device. This marks the first time that a comprehensive collection of sheet music is being offered for this exciting new medium.
"This is a wonderful boon to musicians who want instant access to a vast library of in-demand sheet music," said Kim Lorz, CEO of FreeHand Systems, Inc. "In addition to the convenient and comprehensive content selection we offer, musicians never have to fumble through paper scores or worry about forgetting a piece of music; it's all there in the Kindle."
The company's digital sheet music website, www.freehandmusic.com, consists of more than 130,000 titles and is the Internet's largest online sheet music catalog. The goal is to make all of the site's titles, ranging from jazz to pop and country to world music, available for download to the Kindle.
The Novato Music Press catalog includes 20,046 titles by 1,350 composers and consists of solo, chamber, opera and orchestra scores. Major composers (J. S. Bach, Mozart and Beethoven) are well-represented, but the collection also contains traditional songs and works from popular songwriters like Stephen Foster and George M. Cohan.
Free Hand's website offers over 130,000 titles for digital download and transfer to the MusicPad Pro.
(Apparently, Free Hand is global leader in digital sheet music publishing, is the manufacturer of the first digital music tablet, the MusicPad Pro(R) Plus and Sheet Music-On-A-Stick (SMOAS))
"This is a wonderful boon to musicians who want instant access to a vast library of in-demand sheet music," said Kim Lorz, CEO of FreeHand Systems, Inc. "In addition to the convenient and comprehensive content selection we offer, musicians never have to fumble through paper scores or worry about forgetting a piece of music; it's all there in the Kindle."
The company's digital sheet music website, www.freehandmusic.com, consists of more than 130,000 titles and is the Internet's largest online sheet music catalog. The goal is to make all of the site's titles, ranging from jazz to pop and country to world music, available for download to the Kindle.
The Novato Music Press catalog includes 20,046 titles by 1,350 composers and consists of solo, chamber, opera and orchestra scores. Major composers (J. S. Bach, Mozart and Beethoven) are well-represented, but the collection also contains traditional songs and works from popular songwriters like Stephen Foster and George M. Cohan.
Free Hand's website offers over 130,000 titles for digital download and transfer to the MusicPad Pro.
(Apparently, Free Hand is global leader in digital sheet music publishing, is the manufacturer of the first digital music tablet, the MusicPad Pro(R) Plus and Sheet Music-On-A-Stick (SMOAS))
Michael Moore to Release New Film Oct. 2nd
Earlier this week, Oscar-winning director Michael Moore unveiled the newest title to release in 2009. This year – Moore shares “Capitalism: A Love Story.
It appears that Moor will come full circle – back to the issue his career got its start with – and that is “the distastrous impact that corporate dominance and out of control profit motives have on the lives of Americans and citizens of the world”.
On why he chose to make a 'love story,' Moore stated that it was time for him to make a 'relationship movie.' "It will be the perfect date movie," said Moore. "It's got it all -- lust, passion, romance, and 14,000 jobs being eliminated every day. It's a forbidden love, one that dare not speak its name. Heck, let's just say it: It's Capitalism."
The film is set to come out October 2nd – 2009 – through the management or distribution and backing of Paramount and Overture Films.
Source: PR NEWSWIRE and OVERTURE FILMS
It appears that Moor will come full circle – back to the issue his career got its start with – and that is “the distastrous impact that corporate dominance and out of control profit motives have on the lives of Americans and citizens of the world”.
On why he chose to make a 'love story,' Moore stated that it was time for him to make a 'relationship movie.' "It will be the perfect date movie," said Moore. "It's got it all -- lust, passion, romance, and 14,000 jobs being eliminated every day. It's a forbidden love, one that dare not speak its name. Heck, let's just say it: It's Capitalism."
The film is set to come out October 2nd – 2009 – through the management or distribution and backing of Paramount and Overture Films.
Source: PR NEWSWIRE and OVERTURE FILMS
All Good Things ....Comes Change -- with the free eventually comes the CHARGE...
For some, it may be a daily routine -- to log into the internet, pulling up a website that plays music as part of some sort of genome project. Now, I hate to say it, I don't know much about it, nor have I truly taken the few minutes to click through and read up on why or how their music came to stream online for free or how the selection of some of my favorites pulled up the musical dabblings of other artists that have a similar sound, beat or something like that.
But today...I found a long email in my box. It was from the CEO of the company -- (Pandora.com) stating that a royalty resolution had come together -- reaching a common ground on music rights. It seems that there are rates now -- particularly for those that listen to over 40 hours a month. The CEO's email says, "Because we have to pay royalty fees per song and per listener, it makes very heavy listeners hard to support on advertising alone. Most listeners will never hit this cap, but it seems that you might."
So rather than cap usage, there is a 99 cent fee once a listener hits the 40-hour mark during a month. AND the other...is like a one year membership --
Finally, the email solicits feedback -- CEO says, "The combination of our usage patterns and the "per song per listener" royalty cost creates a financial reality that we can't ignore...but we very much want you to continue listening for years to come."
Hmmm... Just thought it was interesting -- What do you think?
But today...I found a long email in my box. It was from the CEO of the company -- (Pandora.com) stating that a royalty resolution had come together -- reaching a common ground on music rights. It seems that there are rates now -- particularly for those that listen to over 40 hours a month. The CEO's email says, "Because we have to pay royalty fees per song and per listener, it makes very heavy listeners hard to support on advertising alone. Most listeners will never hit this cap, but it seems that you might."
So rather than cap usage, there is a 99 cent fee once a listener hits the 40-hour mark during a month. AND the other...is like a one year membership --
Finally, the email solicits feedback -- CEO says, "The combination of our usage patterns and the "per song per listener" royalty cost creates a financial reality that we can't ignore...but we very much want you to continue listening for years to come."
Hmmm... Just thought it was interesting -- What do you think?
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Another Way to Maximize Your Home TV usage
Technological history -- we're living in this day. It would seem that there are millions of advances happening around us everyday.
But -- the digital switch -- the change to the way we watch television is a pretty big deal! NOW -- there is yet another advancement you may like hearing about-- I know I do. Those big television monitors so many have invested in...
well, the Associated Press is reporting that the cables, your digital and audio cables -- will soon come with another capability -- and that is to hook you to the internet!
Manufacturers said Thursday that version 1.4 of the HDMI standard, for High-Definition Multimedia Interface, includes a data networking feature. That means that a set-top box that connects to the Internet could share its connection with other devices in the entertainment center, for easier access to Web video, e-mail and news, says Steve Venuti, president and CEO of HDMI Licensing.
SOURCE: The AP
Japanese University and Free IPHONE...no kidding.
AAaaahh....you may be living, or at least can remember the back breaking days of that 125-200 dollar back pack filled with text books. Bruised shoulders, aching back....
As technology advances, I've always wondered why little gizmos and gadgets can't just have uploads of the text book information, saving the backs and even lighten the load of those seeking to wrinkle their grey matter.
Well, reading headlines on Breitbart dot com led me to this little tidbit about a Japanese University that is giving it's students iphones. The purpose: to be a quick and easy line of communication between professor and student and...take role.
what, email just wasn't cutting it? I value my freedom...but value convenience. My thoughts are torn from being tethered to a professor that thinks the world perpetuates around the ONE topic they teach and the convenience of having efficiency at the tip of one's fingers.
Now -- riddle me this, if you'd give an iphone for something as simple as taking attendance, why wouldn't you use that same technology to alleviate weight of baggage? Novel idea...with it's ups and downs for that matter. What do you think?
The project, which is being tested ahead of its formal launch in June, involves 550 first and second year students and some staff of a department at Aoyama Gakuin University, which is located just outside Tokyo in Sagamihara city.
As technology advances, I've always wondered why little gizmos and gadgets can't just have uploads of the text book information, saving the backs and even lighten the load of those seeking to wrinkle their grey matter.
Well, reading headlines on Breitbart dot com led me to this little tidbit about a Japanese University that is giving it's students iphones. The purpose: to be a quick and easy line of communication between professor and student and...take role.
what, email just wasn't cutting it? I value my freedom...but value convenience. My thoughts are torn from being tethered to a professor that thinks the world perpetuates around the ONE topic they teach and the convenience of having efficiency at the tip of one's fingers.
Now -- riddle me this, if you'd give an iphone for something as simple as taking attendance, why wouldn't you use that same technology to alleviate weight of baggage? Novel idea...with it's ups and downs for that matter. What do you think?
The project, which is being tested ahead of its formal launch in June, involves 550 first and second year students and some staff of a department at Aoyama Gakuin University, which is located just outside Tokyo in Sagamihara city.
Monday, June 1, 2009
So - What do you Know?
Meaningful blogs -- rarely translate onto paper or even through the keyboard for me -- these days at least.
But I always find interesting items that intrigue me! Ironically -- I bring you a comment on this picture today.
It is really a sign placed on a pole by park services in Cades Cove. The photo is by my dear friend Mandy Bowlin.
It IS my favorite pic of the year. I admire the ooozing sarcasm dripping from the very letters formulating the simple thought about BOB. Bob was here. NOTICE however, there are a few names SCRATCHED into the sign as well.
There ya go -- that's all I have for ya today - but it's a little ironic food for thought! There ya go!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
I say "Cute Dog!", Owner Smiles - Dog Hikes Leg on New Shoes
Morning comes too soon for the exhausted and sleep deprived. Finding myself tightly tucked in a cocoon of comforter, I open one eye, peeking only to see the warm, toasty better half absent from my morning routine. A foggy memory reminds me he has been called by better weather to the Tennessee River's fish friendly currents.
Stumbling down the stairs, I listen to Lucky's heavy pawed momentum as she too tries to make her way to the kitchen. SO THANKFUL for a one cup coffee maker! Insert pod, close latch -- tap button for a big, strong dose and watch it go...all over tray, counter.....floor...
Lucky just watches as I struggle to remember what to grab. It's like a dodge ball coming RIGHT at you and you're too shocked to move. Sweet nectar of the morning gods escapes, filling the air with a delightful aroma and puddling in every knook or cranny it can run to.
Lucky's ears tuck back with what I imagine to be sarcasm. I grab a mug...insert under spout, grab pod, recycle previous intent and THIS TIME, capture my dark brew. All the while dropping towells on puddles to absorb mess.
Two spoons of sugar, a liberal dose of half and half -- I grab a blank notepad and cruise out to the side porch. Yup, I said porch. It's what we call it.
Here, I have the most perfect view of all that comes and goes: To my right, I can see the a panoramic of mountains and to my left, a one point perspective in curvature -- of dogwoods and azaleas blooming in full force on this historic suburban neighborhood street.
THIS IS my favorite place to sip my morning coffee and let my mind catch up with my body. It is the most peaceful part of my week. Here, I find serenity and the desire to stay in this spot all day!! I leave my perch only to grab refills, books and notepads and it's sometimes sooo...frustrating when I find the world has no intention of allowing me to hold this position.
I spot an elderly lady with her adorable Chihuahua. It looks a bit like a tea cup sized doberman pincher. Sniffing, sniffing, determined to mark some territory -- both seem too involved in their routine to notice me behind a trimmed azalea --the little dog cruises pavement, tugging the forgiveness of the leash held by arthritic hands.
The two turn, cross the shallow ditch into a sad excuse of a mixed manicured lawn...into my yard. Never noticing me...I continue to sip, witnessing the natural event that appears all too routine for this companionship. The leashed rat -- hunkers -- pauses to make a deposit and strut away -- this time a loose gate dropping the tension on it's tether. Hmmmmm...that's not very neighborly...
MENTAL NOTE: DO NOT WALK IN GRASS. At least not for a couple of weeks....
Today, I wish to read, wondering if I have a copy of Team of Rivals to devour. My attention turns to Lucky, thumping her little paw on the door. A quick move allows her to escape outside to my retreat. Once she rounds a path to check out the surroundings -- she settles into her own vantage point and directs her attention to a couple walking down the street.
I too begin my observation, noting the sweetness of their pace. His step, in line with hers. They must be in their late 60's; but then again, I'm a horrible judge of age -- noting they could be in their 90's. His blue windbreaker sets him far apart from the landscape. her polyester is understated, yet somehow manages to pull off a classy and non-distracting look. They are holding hands.
The best actors in world would find it challenging to pull off the sweet innocence of their quiet stroll. I have a moment of goosebumps as I contemplate a lifetime of experiences they've lived, shared and dreamed together. They've lived...conquering the challenges of time yet they continue to hold hands.
Noting this may be the cutest most heartwarming scene I'll carry with me throughout my day. Then, the elderly lady points downward toward my yard. Could she have spotted the fresh deposit left by the previous visitor? The gesture didn't last but a moment -- when they drop their clasp of one another and he strolls forward -- up my sidewalk, he carefully bends down, reaches and picks up my Saturday edition of the Chattanooga Times Free Press.
Now, if you know me, you know this is like reaching for my plate while I'm eating. My instinct is to fork you before your hand makes it.
But here, at this moment, I am not too concerned. I am content to watch how this is goes down. As he raises back up -- he pauses. I wonder if he has a head rush -- if he's okay. Then, he tucks the paper under his arm and turns back down the path -- the slight slope appears to be painful on his joints. Rejoining his companion, taking her hand, they begin to walk. It only takes two more paces before the two notice me at my perch.
From the corner of my eye, I see Lucky flicking her right ear, turning her head to look up at me. I wonder what she's thinking.
The couple drops their grasp again as he gently turns, four steps back to the sidewalk, four steps up -- he bends over -- laying the paper exactly as he found it -- giving it a pat. Again the slow raise back up. After a quick pause, he turns to my direction, raises his hand and arm all the way up: Waves, smiles and nods. I do the same. It's still quiet. They pace away again holding hands.
I will admit, I begin to wonder if they walk to enjoy the weather or health and how often they gank neighbors newspapers. What they don't know...is I wouldn't have said a word...THIS TIME...Simply because I enjoyed seeing their interactions...their romance.
That and I know better than to open my mouth to anyone before I'm two cups into my morning brew.
AND....that's my morning. My story...no real rant or point....just mere observations. Looking forward to an evening -- of good friends -- maybe it'll be a Sipping Cosmos kind o Saturday?!
Stumbling down the stairs, I listen to Lucky's heavy pawed momentum as she too tries to make her way to the kitchen. SO THANKFUL for a one cup coffee maker! Insert pod, close latch -- tap button for a big, strong dose and watch it go...all over tray, counter.....floor...
Lucky just watches as I struggle to remember what to grab. It's like a dodge ball coming RIGHT at you and you're too shocked to move. Sweet nectar of the morning gods escapes, filling the air with a delightful aroma and puddling in every knook or cranny it can run to.
Lucky's ears tuck back with what I imagine to be sarcasm. I grab a mug...insert under spout, grab pod, recycle previous intent and THIS TIME, capture my dark brew. All the while dropping towells on puddles to absorb mess.
Two spoons of sugar, a liberal dose of half and half -- I grab a blank notepad and cruise out to the side porch. Yup, I said porch. It's what we call it.
Here, I have the most perfect view of all that comes and goes: To my right, I can see the a panoramic of mountains and to my left, a one point perspective in curvature -- of dogwoods and azaleas blooming in full force on this historic suburban neighborhood street.
THIS IS my favorite place to sip my morning coffee and let my mind catch up with my body. It is the most peaceful part of my week. Here, I find serenity and the desire to stay in this spot all day!! I leave my perch only to grab refills, books and notepads and it's sometimes sooo...frustrating when I find the world has no intention of allowing me to hold this position.
I spot an elderly lady with her adorable Chihuahua. It looks a bit like a tea cup sized doberman pincher. Sniffing, sniffing, determined to mark some territory -- both seem too involved in their routine to notice me behind a trimmed azalea --the little dog cruises pavement, tugging the forgiveness of the leash held by arthritic hands.
The two turn, cross the shallow ditch into a sad excuse of a mixed manicured lawn...into my yard. Never noticing me...I continue to sip, witnessing the natural event that appears all too routine for this companionship. The leashed rat -- hunkers -- pauses to make a deposit and strut away -- this time a loose gate dropping the tension on it's tether. Hmmmmm...that's not very neighborly...
MENTAL NOTE: DO NOT WALK IN GRASS. At least not for a couple of weeks....
Today, I wish to read, wondering if I have a copy of Team of Rivals to devour. My attention turns to Lucky, thumping her little paw on the door. A quick move allows her to escape outside to my retreat. Once she rounds a path to check out the surroundings -- she settles into her own vantage point and directs her attention to a couple walking down the street.
I too begin my observation, noting the sweetness of their pace. His step, in line with hers. They must be in their late 60's; but then again, I'm a horrible judge of age -- noting they could be in their 90's. His blue windbreaker sets him far apart from the landscape. her polyester is understated, yet somehow manages to pull off a classy and non-distracting look. They are holding hands.
The best actors in world would find it challenging to pull off the sweet innocence of their quiet stroll. I have a moment of goosebumps as I contemplate a lifetime of experiences they've lived, shared and dreamed together. They've lived...conquering the challenges of time yet they continue to hold hands.
Noting this may be the cutest most heartwarming scene I'll carry with me throughout my day. Then, the elderly lady points downward toward my yard. Could she have spotted the fresh deposit left by the previous visitor? The gesture didn't last but a moment -- when they drop their clasp of one another and he strolls forward -- up my sidewalk, he carefully bends down, reaches and picks up my Saturday edition of the Chattanooga Times Free Press.
Now, if you know me, you know this is like reaching for my plate while I'm eating. My instinct is to fork you before your hand makes it.
But here, at this moment, I am not too concerned. I am content to watch how this is goes down. As he raises back up -- he pauses. I wonder if he has a head rush -- if he's okay. Then, he tucks the paper under his arm and turns back down the path -- the slight slope appears to be painful on his joints. Rejoining his companion, taking her hand, they begin to walk. It only takes two more paces before the two notice me at my perch.
From the corner of my eye, I see Lucky flicking her right ear, turning her head to look up at me. I wonder what she's thinking.
The couple drops their grasp again as he gently turns, four steps back to the sidewalk, four steps up -- he bends over -- laying the paper exactly as he found it -- giving it a pat. Again the slow raise back up. After a quick pause, he turns to my direction, raises his hand and arm all the way up: Waves, smiles and nods. I do the same. It's still quiet. They pace away again holding hands.
I will admit, I begin to wonder if they walk to enjoy the weather or health and how often they gank neighbors newspapers. What they don't know...is I wouldn't have said a word...THIS TIME...Simply because I enjoyed seeing their interactions...their romance.
That and I know better than to open my mouth to anyone before I'm two cups into my morning brew.
AND....that's my morning. My story...no real rant or point....just mere observations. Looking forward to an evening -- of good friends -- maybe it'll be a Sipping Cosmos kind o Saturday?!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Never Wear Strappy Green Stilettos on a Drug Bust
I've often said it, but it's not something I am conscious of everyday...I often can recall a day's events, conversations and names -- IF I can remember what I was wearing. Tragic but true -- my memories are attached to a final outcome of a decision making process, that is far less important to the bigger scheme of things.
First -- dresses, slacks, then skirts -- white, cream, pink, then purple...next, blue and two levels deep of blazers, black tops and then mocha chocolate brown --
Standing in front of my closet door -- my foggy mind puzzles: Why must THIS always be so difficult? you would think there would never be the sort of decision that takes so much deliberation, the time that consumes contemplating in my morning's inner-monologue.
At this moment, finalizing my decision of "what to wear" seems much more complex than anything else I'm facing in my day.
Rarely do I think about it the night before. I've learned (and tried) advance selections never fit my mood day of.
Retreating from the shadows cast by the fickle closet light -- I grab my running shoes, head downstairs to the refrigerator --- noting bottled water always finds its way inside the cool temperatured box -- even though I prefer it room temperature. I take one, press start on the treadmill and grab the remote. It is my own little cockpit of entertainment in the mornings and some evenings. On it, I keep the water, remote, hand held weights, a pen and at least one sheet of paper for a last minute list. This is how I start my day. This is how I gather my thoughts. THIS is where I make many, many decisions.
Here I continue to think..."what to wear, what to wear?" Dismissing the thought to begin itemizing the hours of my day, checking the weather...after all -- IT ALL HELPS! Grabbing the pen, I scrawl my first list -- no need to be neat as I'll be rewriting it by priority later.
Next, shower and back to the original task -- THINK! DECIDE? Geez!? While I am certain this is a task and process I am not alone in -- this cycle of what some would call petty decision making, my comfort in satisfaction is in the final product and knowing that it can potentially affect just how well my day plays out!
This is important! Well, maybe NOT that important. My mother always told me: "it's not what you wear but how you wear it," and "it doesn't matter what you wear as long as you're clean and neat". I know, I know and I think her finger waving in the air and her saying this all the time. I have no excuse. I am just indecisive and have a hesitation to commit that quickly in my day.
Not long ago, an old friend posted a picture of me on Facebook. In it, I'm alone, holding a news mic, on the lawn of some seemingly unknown location. Oddly enough, the first think I noticed is the outfit: A blue blazer and a very apple green sweater. It is an ensemble graciously given to me by a generous retailer -- one that provided my wardrobe back (at least three years preceding when the picture was taken) when I was a face only seen behind the news desk on a local.
It comes to me: St. Patrick's Day 2004, the lawn of the Rhea County, Tennessee Courthouse; double live shot. I remember the photographer I was paired with that day, who was operating the satellite truck and the other reporter/photographer team -- and even the story --(Rhea County Commissioners had voted to ban gays) -- AND it is all because of WHAT I was wearing.
There are just as many days the final selection runs a muck and sometimes I write it or rather a simple thought down -- yup -- so I don't make THAT mistake again...segue -- and you guessed it: I have another STORY that goes with this!
Somewhere in my personal effects is an old day planner with a handwritten note -- "never wear strappy green stilettos on a drug bust".
This premise was settled upon after an exhilarating lead sent my former newsie self to a massive round up of pot (a.k.a. weed, marijuana etc). Of course, if a story is THAT fantastic -- good fashion MUST be sacrificed! Unfortunately, riding on a ATV in open toe, "strappy" stilettos -- through an OH SO overgrown field of briers and illegal plants, left the front of my feet and legs in a very not so presentable condition. The story was very interesting. Somewhere out there is a picture of me standing in the shade of a plant! I'd never seen anything like it in my life! But back to my point -- I remember the entire order of that day's events because of the shoes I had chosen to wear. While they were not sensible for the cause -- they really DO bring a list of memories from that day's events. Thus, "never wear strappy green stilettos on a drug bust"!
Finally, back in front of that ominous doorway. I'm not one to try on multiples. The decision just comes when you least expect it -- Today, I'll start with shoes. Here we go -- inspiration AT LAST!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
And so...we live
A clear popping noise broke the rhythmic encantation of the cadydids announcing the fall of dusk. The ice shifts, as I watch Uncle Willie's adams apple move -- swigging down Aunt Icy's famous sweet tea. Uncle Willie is a Purple Heart recipient from World War II. I never saw a day he didn't wear his overalls and light colored, collared button down.
From the same perch I'd made mud pies from earlier -- I watch the lightning bugs taking flight and the blooms on that sweet magnolia begin to close each petal as if to sleep for the night.
I listen : If I close my eyes I can see the Cadron Creek swell and flood when it rained. It was terrifying and exhilarating just the same. The murky waters gather foam as thousands of gallons of water would push it's way past wayward brush and debris.
Willie and Elmer-- The name of two boys -- raised in Central Arkansas -- Both born somewhere near 1922. They are the same age -- and beyond their friendship, Willie also was, Elmer's uncle. You would never know it listening to their conversations. Their laughter -- and their wicked rants of those good ol' day days. It would seem the two are brothers in life.
The sweet tea would be gone long before the ice could melt. Their voices would echo the moments of days gone by...mostly, they talked about the Cadron Creek.
Can you imagine running dirt roads, a cool five miles, just to get to a swollen creek? I, then and now, didn't visualize them but more so the adventure...of catching fallen tree's upcreek, and jumping the banks to ride the tumultuous currents until the banks narrowed to close to pass through.
Through their discussions and experiences, I learned, being bitten by a cotton mouth will make you quite sick -- and how Willie and Elmer had a drunk uncle who poured kerosene on Willie's snake bite -- for miraculous results. While, I can hardly imagine using kerosene for medicinal purposes -- both were pleased to share their story--- tall tale? who knows. What an adventure.
You may not know this, but I was adopted by a senior citizen couple. This couple also happened to be my biological father's parents...who were kind enough to re-unite my full blood older brother and I. My adopted father was Elmer. Uncle Willie is well, to this very day, my great uncle.
It was during my time with them, I developed an appreciation for a generation decades away from my own. After my adopted parents passed away, I found solace in seeking out others who knew what it was like to truly LIVE.
Not long after attending my last funeral, I adopted a grandfather at a nursing facility near my campus. I went to visit him every week. He was very tall, very quiet and quite surly when he did speak. Unfortunately, he never told a story or wanted anything beyond a book to be read to him. He had no use for additional friendship or relationships in his life. But on a day when I meant to deliver a plate full of diabetic friendly brownies to him, I met a very lovely older woman.
She was lost. She was looking for her husband and son. I paid a visit to the nurses station to let them know her concerns before I delivered my homemade treats.
After an hour, I passed her in the hallway again. She asked me the same questions and seemed in great distress. I took her hand and walked every hallway with her. We could not find her husband or son. I soon learned she was a retired teacher. In fact, many visitors would stop to chat. They would share stories of her sweet spirit leading a room full of children through lesson after lesson. She, had no memory. She had no sense of time. She was lost. You may or may not guess -- Alzheimer's.
Shifting gears:
This thought process is not meant to bring about controversy, start arguments or create situations of envy...
Today, in a conversation, I merely stated: "she lives".
Could this be my famous last words? Not so much but you would have thought it would be had you heard the conversational response.
When I reflect on my misadventures and debauchery, or even that of my friends -- I always take the time to note: "what a great memory", I or they will have to keep. Someday, our experiences -- our relationships and our friendships will be the treasures that we live for.
This is a fact I am certain of -- having listened and through a childhood of observation: If we do not take the time to LIVE, how will we ever know, feel and for that matter love?
I have many friends whom dive FACE first, with eyes wide open into every flavor, color and smell LIFE can offer. I have other friends living on reserves, whom look at the others and wonder how and why they can sacrifice so much for a little experience.
Looking back to the elders of my life, I see how precious memories are. How -- the older we get, our identities perpetuate around those memories -- and how if those memories are never experienced OR if somehow, stolen by disease -- we are lost.
Too deep? I know, I know. But today, all I can think of is -- what am I doing to LIVE. How am I making a difference and celebrating those who came before me, sacrificed for me and made my life what it is....How do I embrace the everything that is out there -- to truly LIVE?
But then again -- How do you?
I have at least one friend who knows this important thought -- and so...SHE lives! I do not envy her. I simply celebrate her energy and respect for all there is to experience and enjoy!
I am thankful for those who know my earnest effort to LIVE and I want those who don't to understand....I am not motivated by anything more than my desire and hunger to simply: know, love and feel....
What motivates you? how do you move forward and celebrate life? those who envy...I wonder WHY? where are you coming from...AND WHY are YOU not living?
My mind falls back to Willie and Elmer. In their 70's...sitting on a porch in overalls. Their bodies far too gone for manual labor or extreme sports...reminiscing on their experiences in life. They've loved with all their hearts, worked with every bone and muscles in their bodies and LIVED with every ounce of energy, God offered them.
I fervently miss them both. I'm thankful for this being one of may lesson's I've learned.
From the same perch I'd made mud pies from earlier -- I watch the lightning bugs taking flight and the blooms on that sweet magnolia begin to close each petal as if to sleep for the night.
I listen : If I close my eyes I can see the Cadron Creek swell and flood when it rained. It was terrifying and exhilarating just the same. The murky waters gather foam as thousands of gallons of water would push it's way past wayward brush and debris.
Willie and Elmer-- The name of two boys -- raised in Central Arkansas -- Both born somewhere near 1922. They are the same age -- and beyond their friendship, Willie also was, Elmer's uncle. You would never know it listening to their conversations. Their laughter -- and their wicked rants of those good ol' day days. It would seem the two are brothers in life.
The sweet tea would be gone long before the ice could melt. Their voices would echo the moments of days gone by...mostly, they talked about the Cadron Creek.
Can you imagine running dirt roads, a cool five miles, just to get to a swollen creek? I, then and now, didn't visualize them but more so the adventure...of catching fallen tree's upcreek, and jumping the banks to ride the tumultuous currents until the banks narrowed to close to pass through.
Through their discussions and experiences, I learned, being bitten by a cotton mouth will make you quite sick -- and how Willie and Elmer had a drunk uncle who poured kerosene on Willie's snake bite -- for miraculous results. While, I can hardly imagine using kerosene for medicinal purposes -- both were pleased to share their story--- tall tale? who knows. What an adventure.
You may not know this, but I was adopted by a senior citizen couple. This couple also happened to be my biological father's parents...who were kind enough to re-unite my full blood older brother and I. My adopted father was Elmer. Uncle Willie is well, to this very day, my great uncle.
It was during my time with them, I developed an appreciation for a generation decades away from my own. After my adopted parents passed away, I found solace in seeking out others who knew what it was like to truly LIVE.
Not long after attending my last funeral, I adopted a grandfather at a nursing facility near my campus. I went to visit him every week. He was very tall, very quiet and quite surly when he did speak. Unfortunately, he never told a story or wanted anything beyond a book to be read to him. He had no use for additional friendship or relationships in his life. But on a day when I meant to deliver a plate full of diabetic friendly brownies to him, I met a very lovely older woman.
She was lost. She was looking for her husband and son. I paid a visit to the nurses station to let them know her concerns before I delivered my homemade treats.
After an hour, I passed her in the hallway again. She asked me the same questions and seemed in great distress. I took her hand and walked every hallway with her. We could not find her husband or son. I soon learned she was a retired teacher. In fact, many visitors would stop to chat. They would share stories of her sweet spirit leading a room full of children through lesson after lesson. She, had no memory. She had no sense of time. She was lost. You may or may not guess -- Alzheimer's.
Shifting gears:
This thought process is not meant to bring about controversy, start arguments or create situations of envy...
Today, in a conversation, I merely stated: "she lives".
Could this be my famous last words? Not so much but you would have thought it would be had you heard the conversational response.
When I reflect on my misadventures and debauchery, or even that of my friends -- I always take the time to note: "what a great memory", I or they will have to keep. Someday, our experiences -- our relationships and our friendships will be the treasures that we live for.
This is a fact I am certain of -- having listened and through a childhood of observation: If we do not take the time to LIVE, how will we ever know, feel and for that matter love?
I have many friends whom dive FACE first, with eyes wide open into every flavor, color and smell LIFE can offer. I have other friends living on reserves, whom look at the others and wonder how and why they can sacrifice so much for a little experience.
Looking back to the elders of my life, I see how precious memories are. How -- the older we get, our identities perpetuate around those memories -- and how if those memories are never experienced OR if somehow, stolen by disease -- we are lost.
Too deep? I know, I know. But today, all I can think of is -- what am I doing to LIVE. How am I making a difference and celebrating those who came before me, sacrificed for me and made my life what it is....How do I embrace the everything that is out there -- to truly LIVE?
But then again -- How do you?
I have at least one friend who knows this important thought -- and so...SHE lives! I do not envy her. I simply celebrate her energy and respect for all there is to experience and enjoy!
I am thankful for those who know my earnest effort to LIVE and I want those who don't to understand....I am not motivated by anything more than my desire and hunger to simply: know, love and feel....
What motivates you? how do you move forward and celebrate life? those who envy...I wonder WHY? where are you coming from...AND WHY are YOU not living?
My mind falls back to Willie and Elmer. In their 70's...sitting on a porch in overalls. Their bodies far too gone for manual labor or extreme sports...reminiscing on their experiences in life. They've loved with all their hearts, worked with every bone and muscles in their bodies and LIVED with every ounce of energy, God offered them.
I fervently miss them both. I'm thankful for this being one of may lesson's I've learned.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Making a List: Checking it once, twice....and once more
Let’s see, I have flour, bread crumbs, pecans crumbled….My checklist runs through my head over and over again.
Bread – what kind of bread? What kind of bread do you serve with pecan crusted pork tenderloin over baby spinach drizzled with a berry/wine reduction? Could I fry up some cornbread? Should it be toasted ciabatta bread? Should it be warm or cold? Definitely plain…Ciabatta it is. Hmmm…do I need to go to the store? I wonder if we’ll have guests. Should I call someone? Aaugh – WINE?!!
Monday, December 22, 2008
They call me Lucky?
Seat heaters. Seat heaters on a cold day -- make it easier for someone like myself to bear the unmoving traffic.
Fear is the only thing that makes traffic unbearable.
You see, I think the hasty reactions, the mean faces, the waving of fists...are all derived from the emotion of fear. For some reason, something made them scared and not knowing how to relieve themselves of the fear, the knee jerk reaction goes out....in form of a bird, a shout....and so on and so forth.
I catch myself quietly chanting, "please don't pull out in front of me...please don't pull out in front of me...", as I watch car after car zip into the 1/2 length I've left between me and the back bumper of the car ahead.
I've spent one hour watching the blood disappear from my knuckles as I grip the steering wheel ahead of me. I had chosen miles ago to get in the correct lane but really haven't budged much since coming to a stop. The generous people ahead of me are apparently working on their karma points before hitting the mall -- they're letting the cheaters in!
Good for them I say. I'm safer here right? Safe and toasty with my seat warmers...just a creeeping a long.
This I can appreciate. My memory falls to a time 14 years ago. I was a freshman in Fayetteville, driving my Honda Accord. At the time, I felt like my weekend was the most tragic weekend ever! I'd just dumped a guy for being an unscrupulous idiot. I'd found my best friend was moving to Mexico. I couldn't go to sorority formal. My friends thought it was a GREAT idea to put me up for bid on a fundraiser date auction -- only to be bought by my stalker. It was a weekend where I needed to cook.
Cooking is my therapeutic holiday. It always has been! It is my way of letting go stress -- for example -- recipes involving chopping are typically my favorite as I love knives.
I went to the massive chain retailer there in the little college town to pick up the ingredients for a banana bread.
Outside, there was an older Native American man selling wares off of a rug by the front door. No one was stopping by his table. Before I entered the automatic doors, I stopped and looked at each silver peice. Every item was hand made in some fashion. They seemed to all be priced fair. Before I could truly focus in on his merchandise, I found myself being squeezed out by other interested buyers.
I eventually stepped back to watch as he sold item after item. He seemed very happy. Not seeing it slow, I chose to return later to get another look at his beautiful craftsmanship.
I spent more than my share of time inside that store...had loaded my cart down with FAR more than I needed -- Got to the register...and that poor cashier, rang and bagged each item. When she hit total, I began digging into my purse. I checked my jacket, my pockets....my purse again. I had forgotten my wallet. I did not even have a check book. I cancelled my purchase and tearfully walked away. This was a first. Never had I been more embarrassed. It just added to that 'most tragic week ever' my college aged brain had pegged.
I stopped by the vending machine outside, inserting the coins I'd found in the bottom of my purse and purchased a cold carbonated drink. It was nice...as I walked to the car. I was not in a hurry. In fact, I couldn't even remember when I had even arrived. What I did know, is nothing looked the same and I did not know WHERE my car was. I walked aisle by aisle. I finished my cola by aisle two. I kept walking digging for my keys in the meantime. By aisle six, I still had not found my car and had discovered, I'd lost my keys too. By aisle eight, I was resolved to find the keys before continuing my search for the car.
Returning inside the mega store, I spoke with management. An all staff bulletin went out and they combed the store as though they were looking for a kidnapped child.
After about an hour, they gave up. Resigned to the idea that rough patches don't just happen in groups of threes...I went back outside to the old man and his hand made silver. No one was near him again. His face was wrinkled and very tan. He wore a cliche' of leather and denim. His eyes appeared to have no color too them. They flickered haunting and blank. His face didn't seem to break a smile even though the wrinkles allowed me to imagine it. Before I could step forward to look at anything, he again was flooded with potential buyers. This time, he was nearly cleared out.
I sat back on the other side of the entrance and simply watched. After all, what else did I have to do -- I couldn't find my car and I couldn't find the keys to my car -- which makes the car pretty useless. When the people finally lost interest the old man waved me over. He called me "child of spirits" and indicated I had brought him good "luck".
I couldn't help but imagine the army of guardian angels it takes to follow me around daily and all the events of the last week happened...what on earth could they be fighting off. Me? Lucky?
He gave me a beautiful silver thread dream catcher about the size of a silver dollar. It had one tiny turquoise bead on it and dangling from it's center circle was a very delicate silver carved feather.
I barely was able to thank him when the manager walked out and handed me my keys. I apparently found something fascinating and laid the keys down on a shelf as I picked up whatever merchandise it was up...to look at it. Anyhow, with key in hand, I turned and walked straight to my car. Lucky, I am.
So, here I am...appreciating my seat warmers. The traffic is not so bad. The evil cheaters are racking up good karma points. While all I wanted was a salad for lunch. Eventually, I'll get there. Eventually, I'll get it. AND somewhere along the way, I'll remind myself I'm Lucky.
Fear is the only thing that makes traffic unbearable.
You see, I think the hasty reactions, the mean faces, the waving of fists...are all derived from the emotion of fear. For some reason, something made them scared and not knowing how to relieve themselves of the fear, the knee jerk reaction goes out....in form of a bird, a shout....and so on and so forth.
I catch myself quietly chanting, "please don't pull out in front of me...please don't pull out in front of me...", as I watch car after car zip into the 1/2 length I've left between me and the back bumper of the car ahead.
I've spent one hour watching the blood disappear from my knuckles as I grip the steering wheel ahead of me. I had chosen miles ago to get in the correct lane but really haven't budged much since coming to a stop. The generous people ahead of me are apparently working on their karma points before hitting the mall -- they're letting the cheaters in!
Good for them I say. I'm safer here right? Safe and toasty with my seat warmers...just a creeeping a long.
This I can appreciate. My memory falls to a time 14 years ago. I was a freshman in Fayetteville, driving my Honda Accord. At the time, I felt like my weekend was the most tragic weekend ever! I'd just dumped a guy for being an unscrupulous idiot. I'd found my best friend was moving to Mexico. I couldn't go to sorority formal. My friends thought it was a GREAT idea to put me up for bid on a fundraiser date auction -- only to be bought by my stalker. It was a weekend where I needed to cook.
Cooking is my therapeutic holiday. It always has been! It is my way of letting go stress -- for example -- recipes involving chopping are typically my favorite as I love knives.
I went to the massive chain retailer there in the little college town to pick up the ingredients for a banana bread.
Outside, there was an older Native American man selling wares off of a rug by the front door. No one was stopping by his table. Before I entered the automatic doors, I stopped and looked at each silver peice. Every item was hand made in some fashion. They seemed to all be priced fair. Before I could truly focus in on his merchandise, I found myself being squeezed out by other interested buyers.
I eventually stepped back to watch as he sold item after item. He seemed very happy. Not seeing it slow, I chose to return later to get another look at his beautiful craftsmanship.
I spent more than my share of time inside that store...had loaded my cart down with FAR more than I needed -- Got to the register...and that poor cashier, rang and bagged each item. When she hit total, I began digging into my purse. I checked my jacket, my pockets....my purse again. I had forgotten my wallet. I did not even have a check book. I cancelled my purchase and tearfully walked away. This was a first. Never had I been more embarrassed. It just added to that 'most tragic week ever' my college aged brain had pegged.
I stopped by the vending machine outside, inserting the coins I'd found in the bottom of my purse and purchased a cold carbonated drink. It was nice...as I walked to the car. I was not in a hurry. In fact, I couldn't even remember when I had even arrived. What I did know, is nothing looked the same and I did not know WHERE my car was. I walked aisle by aisle. I finished my cola by aisle two. I kept walking digging for my keys in the meantime. By aisle six, I still had not found my car and had discovered, I'd lost my keys too. By aisle eight, I was resolved to find the keys before continuing my search for the car.
Returning inside the mega store, I spoke with management. An all staff bulletin went out and they combed the store as though they were looking for a kidnapped child.
After about an hour, they gave up. Resigned to the idea that rough patches don't just happen in groups of threes...I went back outside to the old man and his hand made silver. No one was near him again. His face was wrinkled and very tan. He wore a cliche' of leather and denim. His eyes appeared to have no color too them. They flickered haunting and blank. His face didn't seem to break a smile even though the wrinkles allowed me to imagine it. Before I could step forward to look at anything, he again was flooded with potential buyers. This time, he was nearly cleared out.
I sat back on the other side of the entrance and simply watched. After all, what else did I have to do -- I couldn't find my car and I couldn't find the keys to my car -- which makes the car pretty useless. When the people finally lost interest the old man waved me over. He called me "child of spirits" and indicated I had brought him good "luck".
I couldn't help but imagine the army of guardian angels it takes to follow me around daily and all the events of the last week happened...what on earth could they be fighting off. Me? Lucky?
He gave me a beautiful silver thread dream catcher about the size of a silver dollar. It had one tiny turquoise bead on it and dangling from it's center circle was a very delicate silver carved feather.
I barely was able to thank him when the manager walked out and handed me my keys. I apparently found something fascinating and laid the keys down on a shelf as I picked up whatever merchandise it was up...to look at it. Anyhow, with key in hand, I turned and walked straight to my car. Lucky, I am.
So, here I am...appreciating my seat warmers. The traffic is not so bad. The evil cheaters are racking up good karma points. While all I wanted was a salad for lunch. Eventually, I'll get there. Eventually, I'll get it. AND somewhere along the way, I'll remind myself I'm Lucky.
Get Trunk'd
A lump locks my throat preventing most precious air from passing through to my lungs. My heart races erratically just like every other time I anticipate talking in front of people.
While I hold this in common with millions of people I would venture to say I am the biggest masochist of all. My chosen profession for at least ten years of my life has been in television. So, professionally, I have put myself in front of anyone flipping the channel and decides to stop.
But I adamantly admit I would rather hide under a rock for a week than stand in front of people and talk.
I gaze quietly at the panel in the front of the room as they methodically question the leadership team pitching a small business idea. I itemize the details of my teams plan in my head -- finding no answer to the questions the astute men are pressing on its current victims. I tap my pen...bleeding the ink into an unformulated stain before me. The panel -- CEOs and Executives. Black suits, Blue suites -- power ties and un-scuffed shoes tied with precision. Their faces look worn and their voices unwavering. Their body language is closed and reserved. They are very hard to read.
Chairs screech -- they're dismissed. "Number Three, Group Three!" Can a heartbeat sound like techno on crack? Two of my peers get up and advanced to a forward standing position. Unlike the other presenters and their professional presentations, our unrehearsed skit begins to unfold...
The panel -- is now relaxed -- their faces gleam with laughter. The room is filled with quiet disbelief and an uplifting melody of relief.
The idea of this exercise -- to present a small business idea. Not a full game plan of execution but just an idea. SURELY we can handle that right?
Get Trunk'd -- It is a questionable title but fun just the same. There is a need to Get Trunk'd!!
Are you one of millions of men or women for that matter who are exasperated by the pain it takes to shop for men's swimming trunks?
Men's swimming trunks are the hardest item to shop for.
There I said it -- But I still do not feel any better! This idea stems from an eight year old memory that is painfully held in my brain.
I do not like failure -- even the smallest of smallest ones. I've on occasion tried to redeem myself to no satisfaction. You see, unless you are an average male or shopping for an average male...I would think you share the same dissatisfaction. Men's swimming attire varies for professional swimmers to only minor degrees as most of the form fitting pieces are team spirited by color and design. But who makes swim trunks for say the: short men? heavy men? short waisted? long waisted? Tall skinny? Non-athletic?
Here is the other problem -- You find some swim trunks that suit the need. They are not the fashion statement you hoped for. They don't match the cute bikini that you hoped to wear next to your man...OR (guys) it's a floral print -- and YOU just don't feel quite right about the Hawaiian daisy sprouting from your rear end...and wrapping around your knee....
Or what about that moment you walk up to the man in the Hawaiian daisy butted shorts, order a drink...and begin slathering sun block on him...only to find yourself speechless when your husband walks up...
Thank you -- thank you very much! My point exactly!
So why isn't there a website out there that -- you can type "men's swim trunks" into Google -- pull up an all-around hub and locate the fit, style and brand you are seeking?
WHY don't designers spend MORE time on men's swim trunks?
WHY isn't there any men out there irritated by the lack of selection of swimming attire?
Could someone save me some time and create a custom website allowing measurements and color or fabric interests to be entered for a customized final product?
The presentation goes as well as it can. The true success -- is the laughter and cheer. Though, I was asked at one point WHAT was I "smoking"...The men in suits agreed they would purchase a customized product if it were readily available.
Another day, another unusual idea....there ya go --
So, this is my blog. This is the first posting on Sipping Cosmos. Here you will find musings and questions. You will rarely find proper grammar or anything too profound. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing.
While I hold this in common with millions of people I would venture to say I am the biggest masochist of all. My chosen profession for at least ten years of my life has been in television. So, professionally, I have put myself in front of anyone flipping the channel and decides to stop.
But I adamantly admit I would rather hide under a rock for a week than stand in front of people and talk.
I gaze quietly at the panel in the front of the room as they methodically question the leadership team pitching a small business idea. I itemize the details of my teams plan in my head -- finding no answer to the questions the astute men are pressing on its current victims. I tap my pen...bleeding the ink into an unformulated stain before me. The panel -- CEOs and Executives. Black suits, Blue suites -- power ties and un-scuffed shoes tied with precision. Their faces look worn and their voices unwavering. Their body language is closed and reserved. They are very hard to read.
Chairs screech -- they're dismissed. "Number Three, Group Three!" Can a heartbeat sound like techno on crack? Two of my peers get up and advanced to a forward standing position. Unlike the other presenters and their professional presentations, our unrehearsed skit begins to unfold...
The panel -- is now relaxed -- their faces gleam with laughter. The room is filled with quiet disbelief and an uplifting melody of relief.
The idea of this exercise -- to present a small business idea. Not a full game plan of execution but just an idea. SURELY we can handle that right?
Get Trunk'd -- It is a questionable title but fun just the same. There is a need to Get Trunk'd!!
Are you one of millions of men or women for that matter who are exasperated by the pain it takes to shop for men's swimming trunks?
Men's swimming trunks are the hardest item to shop for.
There I said it -- But I still do not feel any better! This idea stems from an eight year old memory that is painfully held in my brain.
I do not like failure -- even the smallest of smallest ones. I've on occasion tried to redeem myself to no satisfaction. You see, unless you are an average male or shopping for an average male...I would think you share the same dissatisfaction. Men's swimming attire varies for professional swimmers to only minor degrees as most of the form fitting pieces are team spirited by color and design. But who makes swim trunks for say the: short men? heavy men? short waisted? long waisted? Tall skinny? Non-athletic?
Here is the other problem -- You find some swim trunks that suit the need. They are not the fashion statement you hoped for. They don't match the cute bikini that you hoped to wear next to your man...OR (guys) it's a floral print -- and YOU just don't feel quite right about the Hawaiian daisy sprouting from your rear end...and wrapping around your knee....
Or what about that moment you walk up to the man in the Hawaiian daisy butted shorts, order a drink...and begin slathering sun block on him...only to find yourself speechless when your husband walks up...
Thank you -- thank you very much! My point exactly!
So why isn't there a website out there that -- you can type "men's swim trunks" into Google -- pull up an all-around hub and locate the fit, style and brand you are seeking?
WHY don't designers spend MORE time on men's swim trunks?
WHY isn't there any men out there irritated by the lack of selection of swimming attire?
Could someone save me some time and create a custom website allowing measurements and color or fabric interests to be entered for a customized final product?
The presentation goes as well as it can. The true success -- is the laughter and cheer. Though, I was asked at one point WHAT was I "smoking"...The men in suits agreed they would purchase a customized product if it were readily available.
Another day, another unusual idea....there ya go --
So, this is my blog. This is the first posting on Sipping Cosmos. Here you will find musings and questions. You will rarely find proper grammar or anything too profound. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing.
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