"Every question leads to new answers."

"How did we let an ideological resistance to inquiry become such a prominent part of our society?"- Bill Nye, Scientist, American Science Educator, from Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation

          Bill Nye released his new book "Unstoppable: Harnessing Science to Change the World"(St.Martin's Press, November 10th, 2015) to audiences of all ages as enthusiastic and passionate about facts and discovery as Nye himself. Everyone should own this book. As prolific author, educator, comedian, former science show host and mechanical engineer, Nye commands information and insight with exceptional qualifications to address the most critical issue we face as human beings- climate change.

        Given the overwhelming scientific evidence for global warming denying facts is not only incomprehensible but irresponsible. Climate change impacts every aspect of our lives from growing crops to healthy water supplies. We cannot sustain life on earth without these resources. As one of the worlds most technologically advanced countries we need to be a leader in environmental change and awareness. In order to design ways to reduce the damage we've inflicted on the earth and other animal species we must have activists, scientists, engineers and especially young aspiring students who think creatively without limits. All of us have a responsibility to save our planet. What could possibly be more important? Unstoppable stresses that politicians need to address the concerns of millennial voters because maintaining or establishing crucial environmental protection laws depend upon who they elect. Once again, it's their future at risk. Our survival depends upon our ability to exchange information, contemplate, explore and test new ideas. If we truly wanted what's best for our planet, our country and our children we have to stress freedom of expression and critical thinking. Now is the time to act.

   http://www.planetary.org/blogs/erin-greeson/1110-bill-nyes-unstoppable-book.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/

"Not to utter words but to live by them."

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them. "- John F. Kennedy

                As we honor our nations Armed Forces service men and women this Wednesday, November 11th, please take time to reflect upon a few unsettling facts. There is an estimated 50,000 homeless veterans in the United States with over a million at risk of becoming homeless in the future. Returning veterans face twice as much risk of homelessness than civilians due to lack of sufficient medical treatment, networking support and nontransferable military to workforce skills. Government services are becoming more restricted with over 40,000  homeless veterans currently receiving benefits or pensions. Tragically, this is not enough. According to the "National Coalition of Homeless Veterans", http://www.nchv.org/ nearly half of our countries homeless veterans served in the Vietnam War. Today the number of homeless veterans is increasing as more and more service men and women return from Afghanistan and Iraq. Young veterans face a lack of social and community support upon reintegration to civilian life. On October 29th the US Senate passed the "Homeless Veterans  Services Protection Act" which safeguards veterans dismissed with "Other than Honorable" (OTH) discharges. Affordable housing and health care are still major issues for all returning veterans. The video above courtesy of a 2014 VICE News report https://news.vice.com/ is one of thousands of similar stories of suffering among our returning military members. (Contains strong language) 

            Respectfully, we take time to thank our veterans for their service with solemn speeches,  free meals and gallant parades to honor courage and bravery on November 11th. As we should.  But as one of the most prosperous countries in the world who depends upon the vigilance, elite training and selfless actions of our military 24/7, 365 days a year for our constant safety and security, how do we justify over 50,000 struggling veterans?

         
             

" Through the dark."

"Sometimes they just get caught in the eye
   You're pulling him through."-  Elliott Smith, Needle in the Hay

                    
              Ask the average American to describe a drug addict and you're likely to hear," dirty, toothless vagrant who wanders the streets begging for spare change." It's this kind of disturbingly uninformed impression that's contributing to a massive crisis in our country right now that typcially begins with legally prescribed pain killers. The state of Ohio doesn't have a heroin "problem". Ohio has a heroin epidemic.

          Recently featured on national news program 60 Minutes, "Heroin in the Heartland" is an honest, straight forward portrayal of young high school and college aged heroin users. When a child or adult becomes addicted to such a deadly substance it's more than family being affected. Entire communities in Northeast Ohio are devastated with most lacking the resources necessary to deal with an unrelenting disease.

    A video previously available on YouTube.com has been removed but you can watch "Heroin in the Heartland" in its entirety at this link to CBS news, 60 Minutes.
    http://www.cbsnews.com/news/heroin-in-the-heartland-60-minutes/   

      
                            

"In this time of monsters and magic..."

“It is true, we shall be monsters, cut off from all the world; but on that account we shall be more attached to one another.”- Mary Shelley, Frankenstein     

          Little candy begging monsters named Frankenstein won't be knocking at your door this Halloween despite frightfully shouting it in your face. It's a common misconception. In Mary Wollenstonecraft Shelley’s unprecedented horror novel, Frankenstein, Frankenstein is not the monster’s name. Actually, the monster was created by Dr. Victor Frankenstein. The poor mangled monster wasn't adorned a maniacal moniker. Frankenstein's name has become synonymous with the murderous villain -- and the wild ruckus of October 31st. Here are a few more little known facts regarding Frankenstein and the creepy creatures of Halloween.

     Vampires, witches, werewolves and goblins - Halloween is celebrated in countries around the world as a festival for the dead with origins in Celtic and Druid lore. The boundaries between the natural world and afterworld blurred as spirits roamed the earth freely to celebrate harvest season among the living. By dressing up as ghosts and zombies we control or eliminate some of the fear we may have with our own mortality. Like Dr. Frankenstein, we create our own monsters. The holiday allows us to celebrate the complex mystery of what terrifies us.

      What frightens us so much about the story of Frankenstein: The Modern Prometheus? Despite his brutish appearance, angry tormented attitude and intimidating eight foot stature formed from various stolen human and animal body parts, the novel's monster was portrayed as having a formidable intellect. His unrelenting request for the manufacturing of a romantic partner makes him appear needy rather than vicious. He scares us because he is us. At the time the novel was written, it was widely believed that humans could manipulate and mimic natural reproductive processes. 1818- biological science was still in it's infancy. Humanity's first breakthroughs came in the form of machines or monster machines created in a lab.

      Mary Shelley was only nineteen when she began writing the story of Frankenstein. The novel was finally completed and published anonymously at the age of twenty-one. The story began as a challenge by her soon to be husband writer Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Polidori and the author /poet George Gordon or Lord Byron. The highly creative eclectic quartet wanted to one up each other with spooky horror stories. Since that time period, Frankenstein has inspired more than 130 films, beginning with the silent Frankenstein in 1910 and including the 1974, Mel Brooks crafted comedy classic, Young Frankenstein starring Gene Wilder.

      It is said that the plot for Frankenstein came to Mary Shelley in a dream about a scientist who created a scary new life form. Dr. Victor Frankenstein was based on a real person named Johann Dippel, who was an actual physician and kooky chemist obsessed with creating life through scientific means. His birthplace was Castle Frankenstein, which is near Darmstadt, Germany. So if you harvested and stitched together some old body parts like a mad scientist could you really create a modern day "Frankenstein" monster? The answer is no.  When your heart stops, blood flow stops, cells run out of energy, and things fall apart. No amount of electric shocks can restore dead tissue, DNA isn't eternal and then there is the big brain dilemma. So we are all safe- for now. 

"This is wrong...."

"I've never seen anything so nasty looking, so sick to the point that you know other students are turning away, don't know what to do and are scared for their lives." Tony Robinson Jr. -Spring Valley High School student who recorded assault video.

            Here is a link to the Richland County, South Carolina local news story (WLTX) hours after a school resource officer assaulted a young woman in a high school classroom. The incident occurred Monday, October 26th at Spring Valley High School.   http://www.wltx.com/story/news/local/2015/10/26/spring-valley-high-school-incident/74645568/

                 After viewing the video several times and listening to recorded first hand accounts of student witnesses it's clear the resource officer, Deputy Ben Fields used excessive force against a minor who showed no sign of threatening behavior. Tony Robinson Jr. a classmate of the assault victim recorded the resource officers actions on his cell phone. The teacher who appears briefly in the video had requested the student leave the classroom. When the student refused the officer was asked to escort the child from the classroom. Deputy Fields, as of this writing, is on administrative leave.

          Personally, I feel adamant that Deputy Fields be charged and fired. The police department, school district or both should be sued. There is absolutely no excuse for this type of violence against children in our schools. As a former administrative assistant, substitute teacher and teachers aide for disabled students, I am deeply disturbed by the way this child was violated. Students in the classroom were stunned. The teacher stood silently watching the child brutalized. Another child was arrested for standing up for the abused student. Charges against both girls should be dropped.
          As a society are we giving away our rights and our power to live in fear of a police state?  Don't speak out when you see something wrong or you'll go to jail? Threatened with violence, don't we all become a little more quiet, a little more afraid until a part of us is diminished, unemotional, uncaring, numb. Is that what we want? Don't give a damn? There is no justification that warrants this type of violent force against a young, defenseless child who was terrified and half the size of a brutal grown adult. If you're not disturbed by the level of violence in the video then you need to examine your conscience.

           
       

           

           

"Memories are made of this..."

  "Trick-or-treat.
   Smell my feet.
   Give me something good to eat."-  Mary Wollstonecraft 

          My earliest  trick-or-treat memory was when at the age of three my Mom dressed me up as mini- Santa Claus including makeshift beard stretched from cotton balls attached with Scotch tape and a big jelly belly of rolled up winter scarves. In full action mode, pillowcase slung over my back, we were off on an incredible spooky adventure.  With my two older sisters in tow, we trekked miles through our neighborhood and beyond gathering our massive bounty of sweet treat treasures. Upon returning home we dumped our overflowing goody bags scattering their contents on our groovy green shag carpet. Admiring its luscious beauty we longed to roll around in our candy crush as if we were the greedy Three Little Pigs in a luxurious chocolate mud bath. Our own personal pots of child's gold. Eyes wide as the moon, we stared salivating over the mouth watering deliciousness of every variety of snack bar, Sweet Tarts, Smarties, Pixie Sticks, gross Necco Wafers, caramels, candy necklaces, wax bottles of  drinkable goo and the occasional sad box of raisins plastic encased popcorn ball. No rocks.

     The day after Halloween, stuffing my face with Snickers bars and Jolly Ranchers, I manically rode my tricycle on our front porch for thirty minutes like the little boy from The Shining, "Redrum! Redrum!"  My energy level measured  Breaking Bad, "meth addict" on the uncontrollable kid scale. This was soon followed by collapsing into a long sugar induced slumber while watching Sesame Street. C-is for cookie, C- is for coma. Candy wrappers littered our living room like the  driveway of a  Dixie trailer park. Next thing I remember was slowly waking up with sticky orange drool running down my chin. My stomach felt like it had been gut checked by Ronda Rousey and I had a Tootsie Roll lollipop suspended in my ponytail. So once a year let your mischievous monsters and ghostly goblins imagine they inherited Willy Wonka's factory and let it rain M&M's and Skittles. The memories are sure to haunt them forever.

"Won't you come out to play..."

"The Smiths was an incredibly personal thing to me. It was like launching your own diary to music." - Steven Morrissey, current artist, musician, former singer/lyricist for The Smiths.

            The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame located in Cleveland, Ohio announced their list of 2016      nominees earlier in October. The 15 candidates in alphabetical order:
The Cars,  Chic,  Chicago,  Cheap Trick,  Deep Purple,  Janet Jackson,  The J.B's,                 Chaka Khan, Los Lobos,  Steve Miller,  Nine Inch Nails,  N.W.A,                                                   The Smiths,  The Spinners,  Yes

        Music aficionados are still surprised that a band with such great influence, longevity and commercial success as Chicago has yet to be inducted. Still others are wondering how quickly time passes when musicians such as R&B, pop diva Janet Jackson, Cleveland's own Trent Reznor's Industrial rock pioneers Nine Inch Nails or Indie icons, The Smiths are being nominated so soon. Learn how nominees are selected and vote for your favorite artists before December 9th at the official Rock and Roll Hall of Fame website here :http://rockhall.com/inductees/

        A love of music surrounds every memory of my childhood. My parents and siblings genuinely delighted in listening to their favorite bands and playing musical instruments.Tuned in and turned on, music and song lyrics constantly filled my ears, heart and soul. There isn't a composition I'll refuse to listen to at least once. We make the mistake of cutting ourselves off from different types of music because of our culture or an ego driven need to "appear" current. You will only succeed in doing the opposite. Know your music history. Listen to artists produced today, 25 years ago or even a 100 years ago if it gives you pleasure. When you have the opportunity to introduce new genres of music to people of all ages a natural love and enthusiasm immediately brings connection. Remove the limits. There is an overwhelming beauty and power which unites us behind our immersion in music, especially rock n' roll. Enjoy the discovery.

     

"What you seek is seeking you."

"Sometimes change is too much to bear, but most of the time change is the only thing saving your life."- Unknown

             October has been designated national  Adopt-A-Shelter- Dog Month. Why is adopting from a rescue or shelter so critical right now? The facts are heartbreaking. Approximately 2.7 million  perfectly healthy animals are euthanized in this country every year. Companion animals like dogs and cats are killed when there isn't enough room to house them in shelters. Most dogs are surrendered  or disturbingly dumped at shelters by previous owners for reasons such as aging, medical expenses or grooming costs, families having children, relocation's or re-trainable behavioral issues. A surprising 25% of dogs surrendered to shelters are purebred. Many rescues are so full of unwanted animals, dogs and cats placed in a shelter have as little as one week to be adopted before they're killed. Despite the success of spaying and neutering programs in the past ten years homeless animals outnumber homeless people 5 to 1. This statistic is tragic for both homeless families and homeless animals. How do we consider this acceptable in one of the most prosperous nations in the world?
          Every year I've tried to share as much information as possible on my blog regarding animal rescues, shelters and the sheer richness and pleasure dogs bring to our lives. From personal experience and avid research, as rescue, police, military, therapy and family companions these incredible animals are intelligent, capable,  protective, trusting and unrivaled in loving their humans. They provide physical health and mental benefits beyond  what we can statistically measure. What can we all do in October and all year long to help these beautiful animals?

         *    Decide if adopting a dog is right for you. Do your research. Dogs require time, affection, exercise and grooming attention but like any thing we love they are worth the effort. Check with your local shelter today. Once you adopt make sure the animal is spayed or neutered.
             https://www.petfinder.com/

         *    If you're unable to adopt do whatever you can to help animals in shelters such as donate supplies or volunteer your time. Call your local shelters and ask them what they need most.

         *    Remember if you're looking for a purebred dog such as a Golden Retriever or Beagle 25% of dogs in shelters are purebred. Find a breed specific rescue in your area. Please- don't buy puppies from pet stores or pet shops online. Puppies bought and sold in stores and online are more likely raised in illegal puppy mills.

         *    Support spaying and neutering programs in your city and state. Population control is critical to preventing overcrowded shelters and senselessly killing healthy animals later.

          *   Use your own resources to help animals in need such as posting information on your Facebook, blog or Twitter page. Urge communities to offer programs which spay and neuter animals for reduced price or free. Population control is key.


        *  Teach children the importance of compassion and care for all animals. Dogs rely on our love and kindness for their survival. Please, do whatever you can to help even if you're unable to bring a new canine companion into your home this month.

     *  Please, take time to thank those brave enough to work in shelters and rescue organizations  every day. Most of us can't even imagine the amount of courage it takes to desperately try and negotiate temporary foster or permanent homes before an animals time runs out. Please, think of those doing a job most of us could never bear to do but what must be done. 

           

           

            " What you seek is seeking you."- Rumi

       

"Our voices are our most powerful weapons."

"There is a moment when you have to choose whether to be silent or to stand up."
 Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Peace Prize recipient, author, activist.

                        Opening Friday, October 9th at the "Hamptons International Film Festival" and everywhere worldwide, He Named Me Malala is the anticipated documentary of  Nobel Peace Prize recipient Malala Yousefzai. Directed by acclaimed producer Davis Guggenheim (An Inconvenient Truth, 2006), (Waiting for Superman, 2010) the film has been described as a compliment to Malala's  2013 autobiography, I Am Malala (Little Brown & Company 2013) with author Christina Lamb. October 9th is a significant date for Yousefzai. It is the day she almost paid the ultimate price for speaking out against the atrocities the Taliban were committing in her homeland. Having taken control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, the Taliban violently enforced uncompromising restrictions on families, especially the rights of women and girls to receive an education. In 2012 the courageous young woman who stood up in protest for her independence was callously shot in the face by a group of global terrorists who wanted Malala silenced forever.

            Critics of the documentary which opened in limited release on October 2nd commented that the film appears to be more promotional than educational. There are memorable scenes where the truly amazing, wise yet playful personality of a young woman emerges. Malala Yousefzai is nothing short of an extraordinarily resilient and brave activist who continues her fight for women and girls not only in Pakistan but all over the world. The story needs to be told again and again and perhaps the criticism of  some writers and reviewers in the US is either due to our arrogance or our ignorance.
 He Named Me Malala is rated PG-13.   http://www.foxsearchlight.com/henamedmemalala/






           



http://hamptonsfilmfest.org/
   

"Something incredible is waiting to be known."

"Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known,"- Carl Sagan, astrophysicist, cosmologist, astronomer, author

        The Martian opened to excellent  reviews  Friday, October 2nd topping all other movies at the box office this weekend. Legendary director, Ridley Scott's sci-fi epic is based on novelist Andy Weir's incredible story of The Martian (Crown 2011) number one on the New York Times Best Sellers fiction book list for the week of October 11th.
       Not all space-exploration fiction translates well to film but in the case of  The Martian starring Matt Damon (Mark Wagner) and Jessica Chastain, both featured in director Christopher Nolan's impressive intergalactic thriller, Interstellar (2014) the survival saga is already earning award worthy buzz.  As a novel, The Martian was well received due to the imposing amount of meticulous research double checked by author Weir himself. In the video above NASA scientists confirm the films attention to detail. Whether audiences choose to watch an impactful movie, read an inspiring novel or both, The Martian franchise promises to transport us on an unforgettable journey of discovery.

 Actor, writer and sci-fi icon, Will Wheaton provided his own accolades for The Martian novel by awarding it five out of five stars on Good Reads website:      http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18007564-the-martian

    "Andy Weir does this incredible thing where he makes the reader feel the isolation that Mark Wagner feels, and he does it so subtly, we don't even realize that he's doing it until it's done."




http://www.andyweirauthor.com/books/the-martian-tr/the-martian-hc

http://www.foxmovies.com/movies/the-martian

"The power of a vote..."

"Cautious, careful people, always casting about to preserve their reputations can never effect a reform."- Susan B. Anthony, social activist

                  In the United States we have a tendency to take our freedoms for granted until we are seriously challenged or threatened to have them taken away. If history teaches us anything it's to be less apathetic and more vigilant about the power we hold in modern day elections. We do love our films and this powerful story marches us arm in arm with millions of brave women who struggled with heartbreaking personal tragedies and injustice while demanding their human rights. Focus Films brings us in limited theater release October 23rd, Suffragette
        A suffragette is a woman who advocates for the right to vote in political elections. In the United States women were granted the right to vote in 1920 with the 19th Amendment to the U.S Constitution. So believe it or not in less than 100 years women in this country have demanded their right to vote and have fiercely fought for reforms which allow us to maintain our independence and freedom. Freedom is independence."Independence is happiness.", rightfully attested  American activist, Susan B. Anthony. Still, in many nations today the fight against oppression is far from over.
              In the United Kingdom the push for women's suffrage became a national movement as early as 1872. A full movement began in 1906. Marches and protests spanned a decade beginning in 1918 during World War I. After submitting and rejecting bill after bill, British parliament granted women over 30 who owned property limited suffrage. Finally, in 1928 all women over 21 were granted the right to vote.
            Suffragette  retells the  saga of strong and relentless British mothers, daughters and rebels who sacrificed their lives for women around the world. Now in 2015, the fight continues. Written by Abi Morgan (The Iron Lady)( The Hour) and directed by Sarah Gavron (This Little Life), Suffragette stars Carey Mulligan, Helena Bonham Carter and the incomparable, Meryl Streep.

 The official movie trailer can be seen above. See full movie details and release dates here  http://suffragettethemovie.com/#landing/home

"Keep feeling fascination..."

"Summer ends, and Autumn comes, and he who would have it otherwise would have high tide always and a full moon every night."-  Hal Borland, author, journalist.

  

https://www.nasa.gov/

                          A Supermoon Lunar Eclipse is fascinating because it's a rare event in our human history. The last time most Earthlings witnessed a Supermoon lunar eclipse was in 1982 when TIME's "Man of the Year" was the computer, the first CD player was sold in Japan, the Weather Channel made its debut,  E.T and Chariots of Fire topped the box office, Michael Jackson released his Thriller album and the most popular song in the US was "Don't You Want Me" by the Human League.

        The next Supermoon lunar eclipse will occur 18 years from now in 2033, so if you have the opportunity don't miss this incredible visually breathtaking event, Sunday, September 27th between 9:07 PM and 12:27 AM.  Tweet photo's to # SuperBloodMoonLunarEclipse

  NASA will be providing a live feed on their website. https://www.nasa.gov/

           

"Why are you here?"

"Self-esteem comes from being able to define the world in your own terms and refusing to abide by the judgments of others."- Oprah Winfrey
 http://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/3518.Oprah_Winfrey?page=2

 

                    Why am I here? All human beings contemplate this question whether we hold doctorates in astrophysics or gather coins on a crowded street corner from strangers. At some point in our seemingly insignificant existence we want to know what the hell it's all about. Alone at night, gazing spellbound at the limitless sea of pulsating stars we wonder..tenderly searching the eyes of a loved one or beloved child and feeling our hearts burst with overwhelming warmth, listening to the orchestral echoes of waves as they ebb and flow on secluded sands, still, silent moments in solitude when we feel as if we are truly the only soul on earth...we question..WHY?  

       Religion, science, philosophy, art, literature, the power of rituals are fascinating to us because they give our lives meaning. There are so many breathtakingly beautiful images depicted in the  preview glimpse video of  Oprah Winfrey's,  "Belief"'  it left me eagerly anticipating more. In less than a month a seven part series will air on OWN beginning October, 18th. If you are a curious human being with much to learn about yourself,  others, and the world around you, I would highly recommend watching this program. 

http://www.oprah.com/app/belief.html

" The makers of magic...."

"If I was any more on edge, I'd be Bono..."

"I'm a tearless clown. If I were to get a tattoo it would be the two masks and they would both be smiling." -  Andy Samberg, writer, comedian, 2015 Emmy Awards emcee.

                  The 67th Emmy Awards ceremony will be held Sunday, September 20th at 8PM, EST airing on FOX. Hosted by writer, actor and star of the hilarious TV action comedy, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Andy Samberg will be sure to keep audiences enthusiastically entertained. The live broadcast will be filmed from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California. By the end of 2015 nearly 400 or more television shows are projected to be in production due to the meteoric rise in streaming services. This indicates the weekend binge-viewing public is enjoying and demanding more television scripts, which is excellent news for aspiring writers and actors.

          The 2013 and 2014 Emmy Awards have been two of the highest rated television variety shows in a decade. No doubt the charisma and charm of Samberg will carry the 2015 broadcast in the same dynamic direction. The video above contains the nominations for this year.

 The link to the official Emmy Awards show can be found here: http://www.emmys.com/awards/emmys

"Making history, one play at a time."

"I was a little disappointed I didn't make a better kick. I was sure it was going right but it did go through. I'll probably beat myself up for that for a little while but it was awesome." Kent State Golden Flashes kicker, April Goss ( source: AP Sports)

                When a university football team makes history it usually appears as a feature in national or local sports coverage but somewhere between the adoration of Urban Meyer's Ohio State dream team and the start of the NFL season a unique story was left benched in many areas of the country. Kent State may be an unfamiliar school to some but in Northeast, Ohio you can't throw a Great Lakes Brewing Company beer bottle cap without hitting someone who graduated or at least attended a branch of Kent State University- seven or more family members included. On Saturday, September 12th, Kent State Golden Flashes football player, April Goss became only the second female in college history to score in an official season game. As field goal kicker, Goss lifted the Flashes extra point to help dominate Delaware State in a 45-13 victory,   

        As a senior soon to graduate, April Goss may not have another opportunity to score a field goal during a  regulation game with her specialty teams. Goss has kicked down the door for other young women who may consider trying out for the Flashes in the future.  Along with her teammates, acknowledgment must be given to former Kent State four-year letterman defensive back and current coach, Paul Haynes, who has proven to be an exemplary leader and supporter of Goss.

Katie Hnida was the first woman to score for an FBS program in 2003, kicking two extra points for New Mexico.

"The art of hugging."

           Your weekend forecast calls for 100% chance of puppy hugs. Sunday, September 13th has been designated "Hug Your Hound" Day. Animal lovers across the world are encouraged to take time to appreciate the valuable gifts our dogs unselfishly provide without reciprocity. Our pets require proper time and attention and most dogs absolutely relish being cuddled. We know giving and receiving affection makes us feel good both emotionally and physically but have you ever wondered why we love to hug each other so much?
              Oxytocin is the hormone that plays a significant role in our ability to bond with our mothers or care givers early in life. We are born with the need for physical contact. Its been scientifically researched and well documented that both animals and human babies who go without affection have developmental delays such as being withdrawn, despondent or depressed. Touching and caressing creates bonding, intimacy and most importantly a sense of trust. When we're secure with our emotions we naturally desire to hug what we love. We show our gratitude for others with affectionate gestures from playful swats on the behind, bro-chest thumps or deeply passionate bear hugs that leave us breathless. Some people try to avoid PDA (public displays of affection) or describe themselves as "non-huggers" but essentially these individuals are consciously keeping distance. Hugging and snuggling is normal, natural  human behavior and essential for truly strong healthy relationships. Hugging relieves stress and provides reassurance. So hug, hug, hug, hug and hug some more. Hug your hounds and hug the humans you cherish on each and every opportunity.

"Follow your own path..."

           " Do not seek to follow in the footsteps of the wise."
             Seek what they sought."

                                                     Matsuo Basho-  poet (1644-1694)

"Late night heats up again...."

         We may be approaching the autumn months but late night TV is heating up again. What's so hot?  Only the return yet debut of one of the most sizzling talk show hosts in America. How would you like to be front row and center for the first ever Late Show with Stephen Colbert? http://www.cbs.com/shows/the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert/   The countdown to Tuesday, September 8th, 11:35 PM EST is running out for two lucky winners to be randomly selected, flown to New York City, enjoy accommodations at a four star hotel and of course attend the premier as Stephen Colbert's VIPs.  Additional details can be found about the Late Show experience at professional dream makers Omaze  fundraising website. https://premiere.omaze.com/experiences/colbert 

      All proceeds for the premiere ticket raffle will be donated to support the Yellow Ribbon Fund http://www.yellowribbonfund.org/  Yellow Ribbon Fund  continues to be one of the strongest advocates for returning service men and women, filling in the gaps of the often long and complicated recovery process. Be sure to check out the video above for more information.

" Change that will save lives."

http://everytown.org/


          Everytown for Gun Safety is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating American communities, preventing gun violence and advocating for stronger laws and gun safety measures. Survivors of gun related violence, law enforcement, local governments, gun owners, teachers, mothers and fathers, and all citizens who want to secure their neighborhoods by promoting non-violence come together to take positive action.
        Everytown is committed to serving victims of gun violence by allowing them to connect with other survivors and share their stories in order to heal. Victims of gun violence suffer from more than just physical wounds, some endure trauma for many years struggling to regain a sense of security and trust. Everytown provides support to those who have lost loved ones from gun violence and provides an opportunity for all citizens to endorse legal measures which will save countless lives now and in the future. http://everytown.org/

       Headline news, hardly a day goes by when we don't hear or read about a gun related death. You may even live in a community where children and adults you know personally have been wounded or killed  One of the most recent tragedies occurred with the senseless executions of a Virginian journalist and cameraman live on air. Escaping justice, the shooter killed himself following the double homicide. Americans have been murdering Americans at a rate which surpasses every other  industrialized nation in the world for a long time. Yet we seem to ignore this fact. How many Americans have to die before we seriously examine why the United States refuses to make the changes needed to protect innocent lives from gun violence?
           
           

         
               
     

"Pathways to understanding...."

"What would happen if we spoke the truth."- Alison Bechdel, author, cartoonist

              Contrary to media reports overheard or nonchalantly glanced at trending on social media this week, Duke University students are not being forced to do anything. As part of the  incoming freshman summer reading program a graphic novel by New York Times best-selling author, Alison Bechdel (photo shown above) was chosen among other literature because it is likely to spark open conversations about life, death and sexuality. Topics that all sincere adult students pursuing higher education should be comfortable contemplating. Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic was first published in 2006 and has since been made into a highly successful Broadway musical. Summer reading is entirely voluntary but Fun Home offers a rich opportunity for discussion, especially about discrimination and human rights. What most people don't understand about the Duke dilemma is how students who haven't read the novel automatically dismiss it as violating their moral beliefs.


 To clarify, in a statement by Michael Schoenfeld, VP for Public Affairs and Government Relations at Duke University  

Like many universities and community, Duke has had a summer reading for many years to give incoming students a shared intellectual experience with other members of the class (you can see the most recent selections at https://studentaffairs.duke.edu/new-students/common-experience).  

The reading is selected by a committee of students, and staff, who then solicit feedback from other members of the Duke community.  Fun Home was ultimately chosen because it is a unique and moving book that transcends genres and explores issues that students are likely to confront.  It is also one of the most celebrated graphic novels of its generation, and the theatrical adaption won the Tony Award for Best Musical, and four others, in 2015.  As we have every year, we were fortunate to have the author join us on campus for a lively discussion of the book during orientation week.

The summer reading is entirely voluntary — it is not a requirement, nor is there a grade or record of any student’s participation.  With a class of 1,750 new students from around the world, it would be impossible to find a single book that that did not challenge someone’s way of thinking.  We understand and respect that, but also hope that students will begin their time at Duke with open minds and a willingness to explore new ideas, whether they agree with them or not. 

"Those without a voice can be heard."

“One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” ― Malala Yousafzai

                       


                 This month many schools in the United States are welcoming back students from summer break. Children raised in America have access to free public education.from kindergarten to grade 12. Fortunate public school systems provide books, paper, pencils, computers or individual tablets for their students. Increasingly in the States, parents or classroom teachers are purchasing these items  out of their own pockets. Having attended and worked in public schools as well as being the sister of a dedicated public school teacher, I can assure you this is true. Public school teachers and parents care enough to realize the value of giving every child an opportunity for a good education. Many under funded schools must request grants or raise their own money to provide essential classroom materials. As one of the most prosperous nations in the world we are still unable to provide adequate supplies for all of our girls and boys: our future citizens, our future leaders.
      Despite failing federal standards and unrealistic mandatory curriculum's we are still financially head and shoulders above most countries. We provide equal opportunities for both male and female pupils which is not the case in many areas of the world. As a native of Pakistan, author, Nobel Prize laureate and education advocate, Malala Yousafzai has endured the unimaginable to speak out for the rights of women and girls to be educated. At just 18 years of age, Malala continues to risk her life standing up to religious and political extremists who attempt to silence her voice forever. “The extremists are afraid of books and pens, the power of education frightens them. They are afraid of women.” stating perceptively with a wisdom beyond her years. Education is power.  Education gives us the tools for survival. Whether we choose to attend public, private or home school, having access to books, library facilities or the internet develops our sense of empowerment. The most meaningful aspects our of lives come from learning, sharing and expressing our own ideas. Education is a human right.


 For more information about becoming a Global Citizen  https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/

"That light inside that drives you..."

“Creativity is connected to your passion, that light inside you that drives you. That joy that comes when you do something you love. That small voice that tells you, “I like this. Do this again. You are good at it. Keep going.” That is the juicy stuff that lubricates our lives and helps us feel less alone in the world.” ― Amy Poehler-actor, comedian, author of Yes Please

       Author, actor and comedian, Amy Poehler recently developed a new science web series for her highly successful Smart Girls project. "Experimenting with Megan " is hosted by writer Megan Amran  who is the author of a clever satirical textbook,  Science...For Her!  Her host character has been described as the female scientific researcher equivalent of Stephen Colbert of the Colbert Report's narcissistic political pundit. What 's really happening before our eyes is an entertaining, educational guide to scientific knowledge and step by step experiments. Learning with laughter. Is there any better way? In the episode above Megan welcomes her guest, CalTech engineer and aeronautics professor, Dr. Beverly Mc Keon. Watch a new episode every Monday at amysmartgirls

     Amy's Smart Girls was co-created by Poehler,  current director, Meredith Walker and composer, performer and teacher, Amy Miles.(see full bio's on the website)  In addition to earning two Emmy Award nominations for her comedic role in NBC's Parks and Recreation, Amy Poehler is a humanitarian, active in women and girls issues and serves as Ambassador for the Worldwide Orphans Foundation. Amy's Smart Girls website is informative, entertaining and allows girls of all ages to contribute their own unique voice. Men and boys are encouraged to check out the site too. Find out how you can support girls in your schools and communities who are “changing the world by being themselves."


http://amysmartgirls.com/shows/






Happy Anniversary to Les & Chuck on August 15th. Wishing you more love & happiness to come.