"And now your moment of Zen."

“It is just an illusion here on Earth that one moment follows another one, like beads on a string, and that once a moment is gone, it is gone forever.” ― Kurt Vonnegut, Slaughterhouse-Five

                                       

      Currently, fans of late night television have encountered  more changes than a pubescent Peter Brady. David Letterman proclaims his retirement, Craig Ferguson bids farewell, the departure of beloved Stephen Colbert of The Colbert Report and then Daily Show host Jon Stewart announces he's leaving soon. Yes, we adore Larry Wilmore. We've absolutely fallen for Jimmy Fallon. Conan is the coolest. But those of us who have matured nurtured by and admiring  Stewart's uncompromising wit and cerebral satirical style will feel an acute emptiness.("The Daily Show with Jon Stewart: where more Americans get their news than probably should.") Jon Stewart created an entertainment empire at Comedy Central and has introduced us to an amazing cast of incredibly talented comedians and performers including Aasif Mandvi, Rob Corddry, Samantha Bee, Jason Jones, John Oliver, Steve Carell, Ed Helms, Kristen Schaal, John Hodgman and Jessica Williams to name a few. Even though we know change is an inevitable part of life, our attachment to a four nights a week fake news guru is a powerful force. Sadly, in the end, like all things, we must let go.

Jon Stewart's words of wisdom.


“Insomnia is my greatest inspiration.” 

"Why is it that if you take advantage of a corporate tax break you're a smart businessman, but if you take advantage of something so you don't go hungry, you're a moocher?"

"Fatherhood is great because you can ruin someone from scratch."

"I like not to be good at anything, so I keep hopping around."

"I’m not going to censor myself to comfort your ignorance” 

 “By the way, when you finish the bottle of Crown Royal, you can still use the pouch to hold your broken dreams.” 

“If everything is amplified, we hear nothing.”

“The internet is just a world passing notes around a classroom.”

“The Westboro Baptist Church is no more a church than Church's Fried Chicken is a church.”

  "You know what they say: If at first you don't succeed, f**k it.” ―  The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Presents America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction

The wild places are where we began. When they end, so do we."

“For most of history, man has had to fight nature to survive; in this century he is beginning to realize that, in order to survive, he must protect it.”
― Jacques-Yves Cousteau

         What is an endangered species? Why should all of us be active and more concerned with this issue? Its a fact, the destruction of a single habitat affects many species of animals, plants, insects, and other organisms. The biodiversity of adjacent habitats will remain altered forever. An animal species that is endangered is at serious risk of extinction throughout most or a significant portion of its range. A species is considered " threatened" if it is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future. Right now, around the world, the destruction, modification, or restriction of habitat resulting from human activity such as urban development, deforestation, mining, and pollution are the greatest threats to our wildlife. In addition human exploitation of an animal species for recreational, commercial, educational, scientific or other purposes results in diminished populations. Disease,  displacement from invasive species and competition among animals for resources are also driving numbers down.

       Why should we care? Due to a global increase in air and water pollution, forest clearing, loss of wetlands, and other man-made environmental changes, extinctions are now occurring at a rate that far exceeds the speciation rate. Every extinction diminishes the complex diversity of life on earth. The loss of  one single species may result in few environmental changes. Where we are failing miserably and selfishly is the realization that all life on earth is interconnected. When our species or living  connections are destroyed, whole ecosystems fail,. Thrown off balance, our own survival will be jeopardized. The diversity of animal and plant life provides us with food and many of our life-saving medicines. When a species is destroyed, the benefits it may have provided will be gone forever.

    What can you do? Get involved. Join an organization which truly fights for the survival of all animal species such as the World Wildlife Fund  http://www.worldwildlife.org/initiatives/protecting-species  or  The National Wildlife Federation http://www.nwf.org/news-and-magazines/national-wildlife.aspx . Educating ourselves and our children is free and its something we can all do. 80% of Americans strongly support ending all commercial trade in elephant ivory in the US. Sadly, the US is one of the largest importers of ivory. The beautiful elephants we see slaughtered by illegal poachers in documentaries and news stories continue to be killed because US citizens and those in other countries consume ivory products. Make sure our government officials are passing and enforcing laws to stop the trade. Protecting elephants, tigers and rhino's from extinction is our collective responsibility. These magnificent creatures have the right to be here and the right to live. If we continue to stand by and do nothing but watch their destruction we are only destroying ourselves.













"The wild places are where we began. When they end, so do we.”
― David Brower

"From the East Coast to the West Coast."

“Tradition is a guide and not a jailer.”
― W. Somerset Maugham

       
      Sunday, February 22nd, 2015 from the East Coast to the West Coast of the US there will be action packed excitement and the moving presence of pageantry and tradition. Start your engines at 1 PM  EST for the 57th annual DAYTONA 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on FOX  from Daytona International  Speedway- Daytona, Florida. Actor, Vince Vaughn, star of 20th Century Fox’s and New Regency’s soon to be released comedy “Unfinished Business,” ( in theaters March 6th ) will serve as Grand Marshal. Recording artist Kid Rock will perform. Be sure to catch the spectacular opening ceremonies as for the fifth straight year, the world-renowned U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will provide a breath taking flyover during the finale of the National Anthem. The Thunderbirds feature six F-16 Fighting Falcons. The squadron is composed of 12 officers and more than 100 enlisted Airmen serving in about 30 Air Force career specialties.
          With over 43 drivers The Daytona 500 was the first 500-mile (800 km) auto race to be televised live green flag-to-checkered flag on network television when CBS aired it over thirty years ago in 1979.  http://www.nascar.com/en_us/race-center/sprint-cup-series/daytona-500.html

     On the West Coast live from Hollywood at 7 PM EST ,  The OSCARS keep us entrhralled and entertained with a long tradition of honoring the finest in film making. http://oscar.go.com/   The 87th Academy Awards ceremony will be hosted by popular stage, screen and television actor Neil Patrick Harris. The very first Academy Awards ceremony was held in private and the winners were already revealed three months prior, far different from the glamorous highly anticipated public spectacle it is today. In fact the first gala was staged at the Blossom Room banquet hall of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. Approximately 270 people attended the May 16, 1929 event as guest tickets could be purchased for a mere $5. Fast forward to 2015, now actors, directors and producers are courted with expensive cuisine, over flowing gift baskets worth thousands of dollars and the "ordinary folk" can follow the ceremony with a simple smartphone app. Oscar.com , the OSCARS online companion website actually took home an Emmy Award for "Outstanding Creative Achievement in Interactive Media". Check out all the nominees  http://oscar.go.com/mypicks  Even events close to our hearts, deeply rooted in years of rituals and convention change. From female stock car drivers to interactive OSCAR after parties some traditions follow a natural flow of evolution.
                                                 



http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/Tickets-Events/Events/2015/Daytona-500/DAYTONA-500.aspx

"The shadows will fall behind you."

"Turn your face toward the sun and the shadows will fall behind you.”
― Maori proverb

10,000
       -Wu Men (Wumen Huikai) poet


Ten thousand flowers in spring,
the moon in autumn,
a cool breeze in summer,
snow in winter.
If your mind isn't clouded
by unnecessary things,
this is the best season of your life.

"In the longrun we get no more than we have been willing to risk giving."

"In the longrun we get no more than we have been willing to risk giving."-Sheldon Kopp, author, psychologist.

                           If you love movies more than you love Valentine's Day then you've chosen an acceptable week to attend the theater. Opening this Friday, February 13th:

Kingsman: The Secret Service  reveals an ultra-secret spy organization who recruits an unrefined street thug to train for a super high powered program fighting global threats and sinister masterminds. The film has been denounced by some critics as a gratuitous violent graphic novel come to life featuring the ultimate Bond-esque British gentleman, Colin Firth. The film was directed by Matthew Vaugh (X-Men, KickAss, Layer Cake) and stars Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Caine, Mark Strong, Taron Egerton and Mark "Luke Skywalker" Hamill. But if fast-paced thrill-a-minute,smash, smack slap, jab, jaws to the floor action and suspense is too much, how about a saucy S&M love story slightly less rough and tumble?

Fifty Shades of Grey opens on Saturday, February 14th.  Based on the 2011 best-selling E.L James novel, the movie introduces newcomers Dakota Johnson and Jaime Dornan. The screenplay was written by talented British writer, Kelly Marcel (Saving Mr. Banks, Terra Nova) and directed by Sam-Taylor-Johnson. Many critics have railed against the lack of female pleasure visible on screen and seem to believe the movie is oriented more towards the thrill of male dominance. Unfortunately, many women who were intrigued by the eroticism of the book may be disillusioned with the performances. So if you're planning on seeing the movie for a first date be prepared to squirm uncomfortably in your seat like a Catholic nun at a Magic Mike review or take mental notes for some spicy experimental recreation later.  However, "disappointed" is not the sexiest "safe" word.  

If you  truly want to play it safe wait a week and see the inspiring Disney family film,  Mc Farland USA which premieres on Friday, February 20th.  Directed by Niki Caro, the film portrays Kevin Costner as a cross country coach for a small California town.  Based on a true story, a passionately persistent teacher transforms a team of athletes into championship contenders. (Trailer featured above.)
Also in theaters soon.
 The Last Five Years with Anna Kendrick,
 What We Do in the Shadows  -February 13th

February 20th

Hot Tub Time Machine 2 -starring Adam Scott, Thomas Lennon
Focus  with Will Smith
Maps to the Stars with Juliann Moore, Robert Pattinson, John Cusack
Little Boy
The Duff
Everly starring Salma Hayek
The Lazarus Effect
 '71                          

"And the songs of every poet past and forever."

"Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere. They’re in each other all along." ~Rumi

          As Valentine's Day approaches many of us think about who, what and why we love. We may reflect on what it means to "fall in love", be "head over heels" or "love struck". Is it lust or love? Is it an infatuation or a crush? Is true love holding on forever or letting someone go?  Each one of us has or will have a "first love". Some of us have married our first loves. Some of us will never speak to our first loves again and others may be quietly pining away in hopes of one day reuniting. If you have a heart it has been broken, it will likely be broken again, it will bleed and it will beat wildly at the sight of your affections. We may have a soft heart or a hard heart but all hearts keep us breathing and alive, and as long as we are alive we are capable of loving again and again or always.

    The poem below was penned many years ago for my "first love". Even if your heart has been broken, the experience of  loving and being in love is profound. When our relationships end we swear will never love someone again, but we do. This is the power of love.  Despite the many infatuations, crushes and heartaches to come, he was the first. Like photographs in our mind, each person we have loved is part of our story and leaves a beautiful imprint on our hearts.

Radiation Man 

by Lisa More

To my curious artist, who contemplates
angles with a discriminating eye
Brushing the canvas, he colors rainbows
ashen and black
Drowning in azure blue, I know the
angelic pout of a sensitive soul.
"What?" " When?" "Why?", he asks.
Looking up from the Gita, softly
I whisper "Namaste", smile and continue to read.
How can I explain the unknown?
Spiraling around our hearts
the universe.
Yin and Yang melt in embrace.
Each blink of an eye photographs a memory
captured in the mind.
Weaving his pictures
they are dark and obscure like Lynch
He is sand lured by the waves of the sea
and what he sees is illusion.

   


A special Happy Birthday to my nephew, Jared. Love you.

"Guess what? I've got a fever and the only prescription is.."

"To me, clowns aren't funny. In fact, they're kinda scary. I've wondered where this started and I think it goes back to the time I went to the circus and a clown killed my dad."

- Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey

          40 years ago, technology pioneers Bill Gates and Paul Allen developed a BASIC program for the Altair 8800 computer, NASA launched the Viking 1 planetary probe toward Mars, Bruce Springsteen released his third album, "Born To Run",  director Steven Spielberg's thriller "Jaws" was number one at the box office and Saturday Night Live debuted on NBC. Turning "40" never looked so "marvelous".   

        Most of us have grown up along side the celebrity cast changes, the memorable catchphrases, the personal tragedies and the comic triumphs as each week SNL capped off  a purely entertaining week in review for the  American public. Many of us have our favorite sketches, characters and spin-off movies as we may enjoy the present shows and  bask in the nostalgia of years past.

      If you think about the sheer amount of  raw talent SNL has developed it's impossible to deny its been a real laugh factory, churning out star after star. From Gilda Radner to Chevy Chase and Tina Fey to Jimmy Fallon, the list of writers, comedians, actors, musicians and entertainers who launched careers on the SNL stage is note worthy and truly amazing.

   Executive producer and creator, Lorne Michaels told The Hollywood Reporter when asked about the 40th anniversary special:

  

     "The rules we used were these: Every host was invited. Every musical guest was invited. Any cast member and writer who had been here longer than a year was invited. Not everybody is going to come. The other rule we used, which was just the simplest way to go, was if people sent back their RSVP, they were in the mix of people we could write for. On the 25th anniversary — which turned out remarkably well and was the first time I thought, "I could stop now and be good" — we did mostly live moments with tape and clips. This time, we have some of that, but we're doing more performances."

     The  40th Anniversary celebration begins at 8PM EST, Sunday, February 15th. 

"Find another planet, make the same mistakes."

"Spend some time to float in outer space
 Find another planet, make the same mistakes
 Our mind's all shattered when we climb aboard
 Hoping for the scientist's to find another door." -
"Lampshades on Fire"- Isaac Brock, Modest Mouse

                     The Top Ten Alternative songs for the week of February 8th, 2015 include music from the illustrious Foo Fighter's, Imagine Dragons, Cage the Elephant and an eclectic crew of accomplished musicians who will release their first full length album in 8 years, Modest Mouse. Strangers to Ourselves will be available on March 3rd but the pre-released track "Lampshades on Fire" is already at number 8 on the Billboard charts. The albums delayed premiere may have been prompted by the departure of founding bassist Eric Judy and the frustration of clicking with the right collaborator's, including rumors of track production with former Nirvana bassist, Kris Novaselic  and Outkast's Andre "Big Boi" Patton.

     "Lampshades on Fire"  was first featured live during Modest Mouse concerts and provides us an eerie rhythmic metaphor for our future environmental self-destruction. Listen to the track above, the top ten list is below:



10. Figure it Out-  ROYAL BLOOD

 9. Rollercoaster- BLEACHERS

 8. Lampshades on Fire- MODEST MOUSE

 7. Take Me to Church- HOZIER

 6. Stolen Dance- MILKY  CHANCE

 5. Something  From Nothing- FOO FIGHTERS

 4. Shut Up and Dance- WALK THE MOON

 3. I Bet My Life- IMAGINE DRAGONS

 2. R U  Mine? - ARCTIC MONKEYS

 1. Cigarette Daydreams- CAGE THE ELEPHANT

"Happiness is the best thing in the world."

"“I shall take the heart. For brains do not make one happy, and happiness is the best thing in the world.” 
― L. Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

              From coast to coast frenzied football fans will gather together in crowded bars or living rooms gleefully trash talking opposing teams this weekend. Ice cold tasty beverages in hand, a heart burning heap of Buffalo wings balanced on the knee, as arm chair quarterbacks mentally control the outcome of the entire season finale if they just scream at the TV screen loud enough. Are we ready for some hard hitting, fast and furious, cheering, charging action? Are we imagining the spectacular stunts of the Seattle Seahawks  vs. the nimble ninja-like New England Patriots?  No!


       Team Fluff  vs, Team Ruff? YES!  Puppy Bowl XI or "11" if you're too lazy to look up Roman numerals will begin Sunday, February 1st at 3:00PM EST on Animal Planet. A tremendously talented tribe of goat cheerleaders will be featured for the first time this year but once again the half time extravaganza will be purrrrferectly performed by adorable cute n'cuddly kitten, Katty Furry.  For information about the Puppy Bowl XI's adoptable starting line up check out this link: http://www.animalplanet.com/tv-shows/puppy-bowl/

                   
                 

"Everyone should have time to play."

"  I currently make a living writing and telling jokes and I will never believe that. Thank you, Universe. And holy sh%#."-Sal Vulcano , Impratical Jokers

     "Impractical Jokers" premiered on TruTV,  December 15, 2011 and will introduce all new episodes Thursday, January 29th at 10pm. The show follows the hysterical antics of four New York  City friends who have known each other since childhood, comedians Brian "Q" Quinn, Joseph "Joe" Gatto, James "Murr"Murray,  and Salvatore "Sal" Vulcano.

( The Tenderloins  http://thetenderloins.com/ comedy troupe ) 

     The premise of "Impractical Jokers" is conquering the challenge of over the top public pranks as the guys are filmed by hidden cameras.  What makes the show truly unique from other prank programs is unfiltered spontaneity. Unlike other prank programs such as "Jack Ass" or "Candid Camera" one or more of the performers may be acting out a hilarious dare as the others remain behind the scenes feeding them lines. Watching the amusing cohesiveness of the four friends while they crack each other up is just as entertaining as the pranks. You never know whats about to transpire as evidenced in the clip above. The show is intended for adult audiences. So if the blustery winter weather is leaving you icy cold, cuddle up and chill out with "Impractical Jokers"  for some serious laughter therapy. It's a guilty pleasure you'll want to indulge.

http://www.trutv.com/shows/impractical-jokers/index.html

" Paw prints on our hearts."

“Without close and reciprocal relationships with other animal beings, we're alienated from the rich, diverse, and magnificent world in which we live.” ― Marc Bekoff, The Emotional Lives of Animals: A Leading Scientist Explores Animal Joy, Sorrow, and Empathy - and Why They Matter

         January 24th is Change a Pets Life Day. This special day was created to encourage pet adoption and spread awareness about animal welfare. Shelters across the U.S. participate by offering reduced adoption rates and spaying and neutering education.  If you have ever owned a pet you understand how animals enrich lives. Cats and dogs provide us with companionship, unconditional affection and many times motivate us to adopt healthier life habits such as exercise or learning how to relax. Encourage friends to adopt from a local shelter or rescue, foster a pet or simply volunteer to assist others in finding a match. There are millions of adoptable animals waiting for a home. 

     Below is an excerpt from an article that I wrote almost two years ago about an adorable rescued cocker spaniel who changed my life forever:

"Maddie was the most beautiful cream colored cocker spaniel and the first dog I've ever owned. Her soft golden fur felt like velvet to the touch. She loved snuggling and giving endless kisses. When she looked at you her big chocolate brown eyes seemed to melt any heart and peer into your soul. Excitedly, she greeted each new day with enthusiasm, wiggly spaniel behind, a "good morning" lick on your face. Time to get up, Human! She owned me from the very first day we met to the last graceful breath that shattered my heart. She allowed me to feel joy and happiness in her presence just as I feel joy and happiness at the mere thought of her now.

.......Maddie inspired me to participate and write for the prevention of animal abuse, spaying and neutering and dog fighting law campaigns. My love for her unleashed even more of my compassion not only for dogs but all animals. She expanded my awareness. Owning and loving Maddie allowed me to connect to other organizations that utilise the power and amazing gifts that dogs bring to the world. Service dogs are trained to allow disabled veterans more freedom and aid returning soldiers with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Daily, dogs serve our military and emergency services with courage. Service and companion animals assist the blind, those suffering from seizures, the elderly and even help children with Autism and learning disabilities.

Our own pets teach us patience, responsibility, compassion and to think outside of selfish behavior. Dogs increase our own health and wellness by encouraging exercise and lowering our blood pressure by petting and hugging them. Who hasn't bonded and become more sociable because they love dogs?
Even as the grieving and healing process continues for Maddie, perhaps there will be another dog in the future. But there was only one Maddie Mooshie Diamond Lotus Buddha. When the time is right I will be ready to be owned again. There has yet to be a word created in the English language to define ALL that encompasses Dog. DOGS ARE LOVE. Maddie was truly a beautiful, happy, affectionate, loving sweetheart. She is missed every single day. However, I know I am a better human being for having her in my life for twelve unforgettable years.
Thank you, "My Little Buddha" . You will always bring me happiness. "


Naturally, humans assume saving an animal is changing their life but many humans will be surprised at just how much animals change our lives..forever.

" Everything. Just as it is."

"The whole moon and the entire sky are reflected in one dewdrop on the grass".-Dogen

 

         

 Eyes burn in my mind

 recognition in a flash

 branded by a glance

  

"Looking for something different?"

   

 "I’m beyond excited to have this chance to continue my relationships with Comedy Central and the brilliant, Jon Stewart.  I love the city of New York and promise to only wear my Laker t-shirts when I’m layering.”- Larry Wilmore, Comedy Central

                  


               True, you may recognize the multi-talented writer and producer, Larry Wilmore as contributing "Senior Black Correspondent" for the Daily Show, but Wilmore began his impressive career as a stand- up comic and actor. He has appeared in movies such as “Love Bites,” “Accidentally on Purpose”, " Dinner for Schmucks" and “Happy Endings.”  He has written for the hilarious sketch comedy show “In Living Color" and “The Jamie Foxx Show" as well as "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air".  With the late brilliant comedian, Bernie Mack, Wilmore co-created  the award-winning “The Bernie Mac Show,” taking home an Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.  He has appeared in episodes of  the critically acclaimed comedy "The Office" and acts as consulting producer. He is executive producer of the new ABC hit series “Black-ish,”. His first book, “I’d Rather We Got Casinos and Other Black Thoughts,” was released to an enthusiastic fan base by Hyperion Books in 2009.  His newest adventure is at the helm of The Nightly Show which premiers, Monday, January 19th at 11:30 on Comedy Central.   http://www.cc.com/shows/the-nightly-show

            The Nightly Show is said to" feature a diverse panel of voices " discussing current events from a unique perspective. No doubt the show will be highly entertaining considering  Wilmore's normal laid back, skillful, satirical style and appointed Lead Writer, Robin Thede, known  for her exceptional work with a Los Angeles based all-female sketch-comedy group. Executive producers for The Nightly Show are Wilmore, Emmy Award winning writer and stand-up comedian, Rory Albanese and the incomparable Jon Stewart.  So if you are " looking for something different" all the cool kids will be watching The Nightly Show debut on Monday.
     
      

"Freedom from fear."

"Imagine a world in which we are all enlightened by objective truths rather than offended by them." ~ Dr.Neil deGrasse Tyson, 2014

             

               On Sunday, January 11th millions of French citizens gathered side by side with notable world leaders through out Parisian streets. Journalists described the somber scene as the most monumental demonstration in the history of France.  Rallies were also held in cities around the globe including Tokyo, London and New York, not only to mourn the tragic loss of seventeen innocent French murder victims including police, journalists and cartoonists killed at the headquarters of "Charlie Hebdo," a satirical magazine in Paris but come together to fiercely defend freedom of expression.  French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius stated on i Tele TV,
 "The terrorists want two things: they want to scare us and they want to divide us. We must do the opposite. We must stand up and we must stay united.” 

          Why is freedom of expression so crucial for all of us?  Freedom of expression is imperative to democratic systems of self-government and especially here in the US because it allows the American people to check and balance our governments corruption or excess. To ensure the American people have power over their elected government, they must be educated, well-informed and  most importantly have access to all available ideas, different points of view and unfiltered information. The greatest breeding ground for prejudice, hatred and ignorance is oppression. Tyranny is why extremists thrive in certain areas of the world. Extremists gain power by suppressing education, tolerance and basic human rights.

     Our right to express our thoughts, play with "good" and "bad" ideas, criticize and satirize freely with others affirms our own creativity and unique individuality. Every man, woman and child was born with human rights, deserves dignity and should be allowed to fulfill their own potential. Freedom of expression encompasses so  much more than free speech or free press, it is a true expression of our own humanity which must be actively exercised and protected every day we are alive.

"Film as dream, film as music."

"Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.”
― Victor Hugo

   

              The 72nd Golden Globe Awards ceremony honoring the very best of film and American television will be held Sunday, January 11th. Hosted once again by the beautiful, brilliant duo, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, both highly esteemed writers, comedians and actors in their own right. With over fourteen main categories the focus of the evening is undoubtedly film. But could there really be a full genuine cinema experience without a film score?  Internationally renowned composer, Aaron Copeland once eloquently stated, "To stop the flow of music would be like the stopping of time itself, incredible and inconceivable.”    The ebb and flow of sound in a film score is a powerful medium for setting tone and atmosphere, creating mood and stirring our sentiments like no performance or special effect ever will. Whether subtle or intense, listening to music accompanying a film or television show has an undeniable affect on our emotions. Listed below are a few film soundtracks you may have unintentionally ignored.

     This year the nominees for BEST ORIGINAL SCORE - MOTION PICTURE

  LEXANDRE DESPLAT  for THE IMITATION GAME

 JÓHANN JÓHANNSSON for THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING - including The Dreams That  Stuff Is Made Of. (video above)

 TRENT REZNOR,, ATTICUS ROSS for GONE GIRL

 ANTONIO SANCHEZ for BIRDMAN 

 HANS ZIMMER for INTERSTELLAR

For a full list of all nominees:

http://www.hfpa.org/nominations-2015/

"..of strength and tragedy"

"Human slavery is a robust multi-billion dollar industry...only drugs and weapon dealing are more profitable."-Dr. Noel Bridget Busch-Armendariz

         It is estimated that more than 20 million men, women and children around the world are victims of human trafficking or a form of modern-day slavery. Victims are subjected to coercion, intimidation, threats of physical violence and brutality to serve the purpose of commercial sex or forced labor. Victims are typically vulnerable young children, homeless teenagers, poverty stricken men, women and families but it can happen to any one of us. Traffickers utilize various techniques to control their victims, keeping them enslaved for months, years or an entire lifetime. Under lock and key, chained, imprisoned is how many traffickers hold victims in inescapable bondage. More frequently other less detectable techniques are used such as isolation from the public or limiting contact and constant monitoring, isolation from family, friends and community, restrictions of ethnic or religious associations, confiscation of visas, passports or identification documents. Traffickers use threats of violence toward victims or their family members, shaming, control of the victims' money or holding money, debt bondage or placing an enormous financial obligation or undefined debt on the victim forcing them to" earn" their right to freedom which many will never experience again.


       Trafficking human beings occurs around the globe, including here at home in the United States.
 "Human Trafficking Awareness Day" is dedicated to raising our perception of human trafficking and sexual slavery worldwide. The designation of  January 11th began in 2007 by the United States Senate. The United Nations has begun to highlight this disturbing topic to work tirelessly towards global awareness.
      What can you do? First be aware of the products and services you use. Do the companies use child or forced labor? Be a conscientious consumer. Check out  http://www.dol.gov/ilab/. Take steps to investigate or encourage companies to eliminate slavery and human trafficking for their supply chains and to actively inform and publish information for consumer awareness.

     United States residents call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center
 1-888-373-7888  Help is available 24/7. Connect with a service provider in your area, anonymously report information or a tip on potential human trafficking activity.

 Visit http://www.polarisproject.org/ for more information.

" Stories in the air...."

" A bird is three things: feathers, flight and song. And feathers are the least of these." -Marjorie Allen Seiffert, poet

         Go outside, sit down, relax and close your eyes.  Listen carefully. What do you hear? Some of us may notice the rumbling of traffic, people bustling, life swiftly moving down gritty crowded city streets. Some us may hear the occasional lonely beagle howling in the distance or the vibrations of an airplane engine gliding high overhead.  Listen closely to what remains unconsciously tuned out. Bird songs. 
        Monday, January 5th is "National Bird Day". "National Bird Day" is a campaign to educate and bring about awareness of the increasing plight of wild native and exotic birds around the world.   Birds are an especially important species because they serve as barometers of our delicate ecosystems.  Due to loss of habitat, disease and the illegal pet trade songbirds and many of the world's parrots are endangered. According to recent research almost 12% of the worlds nearly 10,000 bird species may face extinction within the next century. Why are birds so crucial to our planet? Like all other species,  birds keep our earth in balance.  Birds not only disperse seeds,  they eat insects and mosquitoes, they pollinate plants and help recycle nutrients back into the earth. Birds scavenge dead carcasses preventing diseases, predict weather and climate changes and welcome in each season of our lives.
    For more educational information about "National Bird Day" or additional resources visit:

                     http://www.audubon.org/   or http://www.nationalbirdday.com/


   It is difficult to imagine a world without birds. They are an immediate reminder of nature and much too often, like many creatures that surround us, birds are ignored or simply seen as a nuisance or unimportant.  From the largest falcon to the tiniest of hummingbirds, they help sustain the earths resources and have allowed us to dream. Birds were our first instructors of flight, inspiring us to soar as we imitated their precision. We admire how gracefully birds spread their wings and fly from place to place, encouraging our own freedom. The echos of their beautiful songs have influenced  countless engineers, scientists, musicians, sculptures, painters, writers and poets. Please continue to preserve and honor them with avian education.

     


   "So you must persist in asking
    where my heart goes all the long, cold night.
    Like following trails left by birds
    who vanished with yesterday's sky."
                                Koho Kennichi

" and a deep blue sky.."

The New Year arrived
 in utter simplicity-
 and a deep blue sky.
               -Kobayashi Issa

"Enjoy where you are.."

"Happiness, not in another place but this place...not for another hour, but this hour.” ― Walt Whitman

            
     Researchers and social scientists repeat over and over like haunting song lyrics every 365 days that New Years resolutions don't work. So enough already. Instead of trying to lose weight, give up chocolate or promise to pay down debt  this year, how about trying something realistic that you'll actually enjoy.  Here are five simple ways to feel happier in 2015.

*Get more rest.*  If you've ever forced yourself to stay awake for 24 hours you begin to understand why sleep deprivation is considered a form of torture. Our bodies need sleep to recharge both mentally and physically.  Can't go to sleep earlier? Try catching a quick nap during the day. Believe it or not sleep researchers report sleep greatly affects our sensitivity to negative emotions. During one experiment  using a facial recognition task, researchers studied how sensitive participants were to positive and negative feelings. Those who worked through the afternoon without taking a nap became more sensitive to negative emotions like fear and anger. 

*Do one thing at a time.*  Sounds deceptively simple but amazingly most human beings fail to master the art of  performing one single activity well.  Want less stress and worry in your life? Live each moment. Now is now, not the past or future.  Put down the smart phone, turn off the TV, close the laptop; not only pay attention to WHAT you are doing but WHY  you are doing it. As you slow down you will find yourself savoring each bite of food, each songs melody, each photograph you admire,  each word from a loved one, each sunset you've ignored. (And you know you have.)

*Go Outside*  Want to feel better fast? Exercise has always been one of the most effective ways to boost your mood. Exercise can help you relax, increase your brain power, and even improve your body image, even if you don't lose any weight.  Something as simple as a ten minute walk can make you happier and healthier. Studies also show that pet owners who regularly walk their dogs are less prone to heart issues and depression.


*Practice Gratitude*   Gratitude is a keen awareness that no matter our circumstances we have something or someone to be thankful. At our lowest or weakest moments we may depend upon our gift of gratitude to realign our perspective with what is truly important in our lives.  Keep a gratitude journal, perform random acts of kindness, volunteer, give to charity. Place more focus on what you have and less on what you don't.

*Take Charge*  Remember this always, you deserve happiness. Happiness is a birthright. Happiness is a choice. But don't ever expect other people, places, objects or things to make you happy. In order to take charge you have to let go of waiting. Let go of finding Mr. or Miss Right,  the perfect job, the next house, the next child or having enough money. You and you alone are responsible for your own happiness today, tomorrow and in the coming year. 



   With love and peace - Happy New Year !
             

"Although its been said many times, many ways...."

"If Higbee thinks I'm working one minute past 9:00, he can kiss my foot. Ho ho ho."

     How well do you know your holiday movies?  Take the following quiz and find out. Name the character and the film or show. The answers are below. But no peeking! Do you want to be on Santa's Naughty List?...again!



1.-"I just don't understand Christmas, I guess. I like getting presents and sending Christmas cards and decorating trees and all that, but I'm still not happy. I always end up feeling depressed. "


2.- "Only I didn't say "fudge." I said THE word, the big one, the Queen-Mother Of Dirty Words, the "F-dash-dash-dash" word! "


3.- "We're kicking off our fun old fashion family Christmas by heading out into the country in the old front-wheel drive sleigh to embrace the frosty majesty of the winter landscape and select that most important of Christmas symbols."


4.-"You smell like beef and cheese, you don't smell like Santa."


5.- "Oh, Christmas isn't just a day, it's a frame of mind... and that's what's been changing. That's why I'm glad I'm here, maybe I can do something about it."


6.- "Then there would be millions of disappointed children around the world. You see, children hold the spirit of Christmas within their hearts. You don't wanna be responsible for killing the spirit of Christmas, now would you... Santa?"

 
7.-"Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?"


8.-"I must stop this *whole* thing! Why, for fifty-three years I've put up with it now. I must stop Christmas from coming... but how?"

 

9.- "Oh, Vermont should be beautiful this time of the year, with all that snow."

10.- "It's a poor excuse for picking a man's pocket every December the 25th. But as I seem to be the only man who knows that... take the day off. "

11. "I hope you aren't expecting a lot from Santa. A federal offense probably puts you on the naughty list this year. "

12.- "You know, I think this Christmas thing is not as tricky as it seems! But why should they have all the fun? It should belong to anyone! Not anyone, in fact, but me! Why, I could make a Christmas tree! And there's not a reason I can find, I couldn't have a Christmastime! I bet I could improve it, too! And that's exactly what I'll do! "

Answer Key:  1.)Charlie Brown-"A Charlie Brown Christmas 

2.) Ralphie Parker-"A Christmas Story"  3.)Clark Griswold- "Christmas Vacation"  4.) Buddy the Elf-"ELF"  5).-Kris Kringle-"Miracle on 34th Street  6.) Bernard-"The Santa Clause" 7.)Clarence-"It's a Wonderful Life"  8.) The Grinch-"How the  Grinch Stole Christmas  9.) Judy Haynes-"White Christmas"  10.) Ebeneezer Scrooge-"The Muppet Christmas Carol"  11.) David Martin-"Holiday in Handcuffs"  12.) Jack Skellington - "The Nightmare Before Christmas"

"All endings bring new beginnings."

“Now, for my younger viewers out there, a book is something we used to have before the internet. It’s sort of a blog for people with attention spans.”
― Stephen Colbert

             The Colbert Report's first episode aired  October 17th 2005 on Comedy Central. Following an amazing ten year run  the show will end this Thursday, December 18th 2014.  As an offshoot of Jon Stewart's The Daily Show, The Colbert Report is a cerebral parody where an audience gets "blown away by the USA" as Colbert pays homage to the self-important, unquestioning hardcore patriotism of "The O'Reilly Factor" or the Rush Limbaugh's and Glenn Becks of the world. Colbert's on air persona "steers the great ship of NEWS through the channels of TRUTH."  Colbert coined the 2006 Merriam-Webster "Word of the Year" "truthiness"   which means- "truth that comes from the gut, not books." or "the quality of preferring concepts or facts one wishes to be true."

       As a satirical newscaster Colbert was able to bring a humorous perspective to the problems facing our nation and shed light on  difficult issues around the globe. His brilliant segments with political figures, authors, actors and musicians introduced us to our own dormant level of intellectual aptitude. Stephen Colbert and his exceptional team of writers  for the The Colbert Report have earned numerous Emmy's, Peabody Awards and even a Grammy.  As a lover of comedy, it's been a rare and special experience to be part of a devoted legion of fans known as the "Colbert Nation".  There will be an irreplaceable void in our late night skies.
    
   Many Colbert fans including me, admit one of our all time favorite interviews was part of Grim Colberty Tales, a two part series with late children's author Maurice Sendak (Where the Wild Things Are, Chicken Soup with Rice).  During the entertaining  witty exchange Sendak is being refreshingly honest and true to himself. The link below will take you to the Comedy Central website where you can watch and share all of The Colbert Report's greatest moments.

  

  http://thecolbertreport.cc.com/videos/gzi3ec/grim-colberty-tales-with-maurice-sendak-pt--1

http://thecolbertreport.cc.com/videos/2uwi0i/grim-colberty-tales-with-maurice-sendak-pt--2