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AFFIRMATION:
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I will endeavor to be unafraid of presenting my authentic self to the world around me and will embrace the reciprocation I receive.
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MY REEL LIFE:
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Last month I traveled from New Mexico to Pennsylvania to New York, to Cerritos, California to Malibu.
I enjoyed two "Evenings with..." events and found that I still love the interaction with the people in the audience. I may be doing more of these in the future. Should that happen, I will be sure to let you know via my website:
as well as the ShirleyGram newsletter and my face book page.
A few things in the New York leg of the trip brought back some fading memories. I used to ride the subway when I was in the chorus of a production. On this trip I raised some eyebrows when I boarded the subway. Everyone packed in like sardines and off we went from stop to stop. People stared and pointed and tried to not be too obvious.
Subway travel has changed quite a bit. When I was commuting in my teens and early 20s people were friendlier, more courteous, and far less aggressive. It was also cleaner. It wasn't considered a 'safe' mode of transportation back then, especially after a late performance, but I never felt unsafe. I didn't on this trip either. It was a wonderful way to spark some old memories.
In the meantime... The Disney movie, Nicole, where I play 'Elf Polly' and Anna Kendrick plays 'Nicole Claus, (I told you about it months ago) has been pushed. The production was interrupted by severe weather and we never finished filming. It was supposed to be released this holiday season but we aren't going to be able to finish filming until next January. I have no idea what the release date will be but I will let you know when I have something solid.
Obviously the film business does not function on a calendar, but that's because bringing together so many people with different schedules can be a tactical nightmare. It's one of the reasons we refer to anyone not in the business as a civilian. That's a term of endearment, by the way. We know that without the civilians we would have no one for whom we could perform.
I'll be back and forth between LA and New Mexico for the next few weeks for meetings. I always look forward to getting back to the high deserts of New Mexico, especially when the seasons are changing, but California is where I work... that might change now that Netflix purchased a studio in Albuquerque? Maybe?
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GOOD NEWS:
Have you heard the term "Peacebuilding"? Until recently it's not been in a dictionary. It was, however, coined back in 1970's by Norwegian scholar Johan Galtung. Now, due to so many around the globe that are trying to bring peace, the Collins Dictionary, Cambridge Dictionary and Macmillan Dictionary have all added the word. The Oxford English Dictionary is considering adding it.
That is great news to me. Peacebuilding is something we can all use!
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There hasn't been much talk of this on the news but I audibly sighed relief when I first read about it.
North and South Koreans have begun clearing mines from the notoriously deadly DMZ. The DMZ is the 155 mile-long stretch of land that separates the two nations. South Korean army engineers began demining the southern regions of Panmunjom village and "Arrow Head Hill" while North Korean technicians reportedly began the demining process on their own respective territory.
With cautious optimism, I believe this is a peacebuilding project.
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For the first time in 55 years a woman has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics. Better late than never, right?
Donna Strickland, from Canada, is only the third woman winner of the award, along with Marie Curie, who won in 1903, and Maria Goeppert-Mayer, who was awarded the prize in 1963.
Dr. Strickland shares this year's prize with Arthur Ashkin, from the US, and Gerard Mourou, from France. It recognizes their discoveries in the field of laser physics.
Dr. Ashkin developed a laser technique described as optical tweezers, which is used to study biological systems.
Drs. Mourou and Strickland paved the way for the shortest and most intense laser pulses ever created. They developed a technique called Chirped Pulse Amplification (CPA). It has found uses in laser therapy targeting cancer and in the millions of corrective laser eye surgeries, which are performed each year.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Strickland said it was "surprising" it had been such a long time since a woman had won the award.
However, she stressed that she had "always been treated as an equal", and that "two men also won it with me, and they deserve this prize as much if not more than me".
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I RECOMMEND:
Frank Joseph has a new book called, "Military Encounters with Extraterrestrials". It includes documentation of incidents from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East.
If you're looking for some evidence of off-world life this is a very good read and I highly recommend it. You can learn more about it here:
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ENVIRONMENT:
This is an ambitious goal but one that I envision is in our future. Two Dutch scientists are using algae to replace plastics throughout their city. If their mission proves successful, they believe that no one will ever have to use plastic again.
Lounging on the surface of uncountable numbers of lakes, ponds, seas, and river ways, are mats of aquatic vegetation called algae – and they use photosynthesis to take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen back into the atmosphere just like every other plant species.
However, as useful as that function is to the planet's survival, Dutch designers Eric Klarenbeek, and Maartje Dros have found another feature, which could prove just as useful.
They have developed a bio-plastic made from algae which they believe could be used to replace synthetic plastics over time. They then harvest, dry, and turn into a material that can be used in 3D printers to create plastic items from trashcans and tableware to shampoo bottles.
A premiere feature of the studio's 3D-printed products is that, because they're made of algae, a substance that absorbs CO2 from the air, they internally bind with the carbon when they are turned into solids, effectively becoming CO2 jailers that prevent the carbon from being released back into the atmosphere.
The designers believe that the algae polymer could entirely replace plastics made from fossil fuels, and they are kick starting the transition by providing every restaurant and catering establishment in their city of Zaandam with completely new sets of flatware made from the algae-plastic.
They're partnering with companies around the world to explore production ideas and to begin promoting a cleaner, greener replacement for petroleum based plastic.
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Staying on the topic of plastics, a group of Kollam, India fishermen who rely on the sea to survive have taken it upon themselves to clean up the oceans and use the piles of waste to repair their roads and create jobs.
They used to toss the plastic found in their fishing nets back into the sea. But, in concert with other area workers, they have been collecting it, hauling it back to land, sorting it, shredding it and using it to reinforce asphalt.
The entire town has embraced the program and the concept is spreading to other areas of India's coastline.
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I just read about this and had to share it. One of the largest bus and rail operators in England, has just launched a bus that sucks up pollution as it travels. Can you imagine?
The Bluestar prototype is the first bus in the UK that can actually clean city air. It's fitted with an air filter that collects ultra-fine pollution particles and spews out purified air at the front of the vehicle. Reportedly, the filter works with 99.5% efficiency.
According to studies conducted by the filter's manufacturer, the bus will clean the air on its route in Southampton at a rate of 16 times per year, to a height of 10 meters.
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Electric models of leading car brands take the spotlight at the Paris Motor Show this year. Euronews science and technology correspondent Denis Loctier reported from the world's busiest automotive event.
Denis Loctier, Euronews says, "Some of the most significant innovations at this Paris Motor Show are hiding under the hood of the new electric vehicles that on the surface may look very much like their petrol-powered counterparts."
The conventional form-factor of the new EQC SUV appeals to Mercedes-Benz' core customer: as the industry pivots to electric drive, the German manufacturer is planning to release a family of electric models in coming years.
Its direct competitors include Audi: the e-tron SUV with an expected autonomy of 400 kilometres also made its public debut in Paris.
Tightening environmental regulations in many countries including France make zero-emission electric cars increasingly attractive.
I like the electric car concept but I also like the pollution eating bus.
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HEAVENS ABOVE:
There's only one main meteor show this month but SpaceX is doing a nice job of capturing our attention and our imaginations.
Across the southwest United States the sky lit up and reports of an unknown object poured into news stations. It was, in fact, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base.
It certainly put on a show!
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The Orionid meteor shower will reach its maximum rate of activity on October 21, 2018. Some shooting stars associated with the shower are expected to be visible each night from 16 October to 30 October.
Annual meteor showers arise when the Earth passes through streams of debris left behind by comets and asteroids. As pebble-sized pieces of debris collide with the Earth, they burn up at an altitude of around 70 to 100 km, appearing as shooting stars.
The maximum rate of meteors expected to be visible is around 25 per hour (ZHR). However, this assumes a perfectly dark sky and that the radiant of the meteor shower is directly overhead.
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TO YOUR HEALTH:
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Last year's Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to three U.S. biologists for their discovery of master genes that control your body's circadian rhythms. These are the rhythms that create a sleep cycle.
They discovered a protein encoded by the "period gene" in your brain's master clock increases at night and degrades during the day. A second gene, the "timeless gene," encodes another protein that works with the first to regulate the period gene, thereby creating an oscillating 24-hour rhythm.
While the master clock in your brain synchronizes your bodily functions to the 24-hour light and dark cycle, each organ has its own biological clock. Over time, lack of sleep can contribute to a whole host of chronic health problems. These can include but may not be limited to: reduced ability to learn or remember, reduced productivity at work and poor grades in school, and the reduced ability to perform general tasks.
Lack of sleep can also increase the risk of neurological problems, ranging from depression to dementia and Alzheimer's disease, increased the risk of Type 2 diabetes, as well as obesity, cancer, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, and a generally lowered immune system.
It is also a major contributor to premature aging by interfering with growth hormone production, normally released by your pituitary gland during deep sleep. Reducing your sleep by a single hour per night increases the expression of genes associated with inflammation, immune excitability, diabetes, cancer risk and stress
Studies have demonstrated that the blue light emitted by electronic screens inhibits melatonin production, making it difficult to fall asleep. Electromagnetic fields from these kinds of technologies also have significant effects.
It's best to sleep in a room that is completely dark, with no electronics and definitely don't sleep with your phone.
Do get up in the morning and open the blinds. If possible try to get 15 minutes of actual sunshine to start your day and regulate your circadian rhythm.
I've worked in 'Vegas hours' for so many years – up all night and asleep most of the day – I have learned just how valuable a good night's sleep can be for your mind and your body.
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FUR PEOPLE:
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As the seasons change we need to remember that in some regions, the temperature drops quickly once autumn hits. Put a blanket on the porch for your dog if he spends a lot of time playing in the yard, and don't leave him out for extended periods of time in the late evenings and early mornings.
Most breeds are well equipped to withstand cooler temperatures, but others – like Chihuahuas, Greyhounds and Salukis – are not. Help them transition slowly from the heat of summer... at least until a good winter coat comes in.
This time of year, mushrooms start popping up on forest floors and around your yard. While most of these fungi are safe to eat, others ar
e highly toxic to your pet – and it's best not to take the risk. Prevent your dog from ingesting them by supervising independent play and keeping him close during off-leash walks and hikes. If you suspect he's eaten one, contact your vet.
It's almost hibernation season! This means that wild animals – like skunks, bears, and snakes – are out and about, busily preparing for their winter snooze. If you and your dog find yourself in the woods, keep a close eye out for these creatures, and mind your distance! If you live in an area that's home to venomous snakes, consider keeping your dog on-leash until the snow falls.
It's typical for dogs with arthritis or other joint problems to experience more discomfort once the temperature drops. Keep an eye out for signs such as limping and reluctance to exercise. If your dog is whimpering when he moves, it's time to seek help from your veterinarian. Ask about giving your dog a glucosamine supplement, which can help ease inflammation around your dog's joints.
Chances are, your dog will be more energetic now that the air is fresh. Take his activity level into account when reassessing his diet for the season – does he need more calories to account for the energy he's expending? Talk to your vet about this.
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TID BITS:
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I've heard from several who have contributed ideas for this part of the ShirleyGram. Thank you. I will try to include some of your ideas in each newsletter.
I heard from a few of you on this tip:
There are many reasons to keep Dawn Dishwashing Liquid, the original blue one, handy. Below are a few. Some I know about, some I've never tried.
WILD LIFE - Ever wonder why Dawn Dishwashing Liquid is the wildlife cleaner of choice after an oil spill? According to the International Bird Rescue Research Center, Dawn effectively removes grease but does not cause harm to the skin of the birds. It's also biodegradable and contains no phosphates. We've all seen this work.
HAIR PRODUCT BUILDUP - Once a month use of original Dawn as you would shampoo. It will remove excess oil from your hair and scalp and strip away any build-up of styling products without any damage. Perform this once a month and you won't have to buy expensive salon products that do the same thing.
MANICURE SECRET - Soak fingers in full-strength blue Dawn. It makes the cuticles soft and easy to work with. And it removes the natural oil from the fingernails, which allows the polish to adhere very well. This I know works.
REPEL HOUSEPLANT INSECTS - Dawn is a safe, effective way to repel insects from your houseplants, including aphids, spider mites and mealy bugs. This I have tried. Put a drop of Dawn Dishwashing Liquid in a spray bottle, fill the rest of the bottle with water, shake well, and mist your household plants with the soapy water.
CLEAN YOUR WINDOWS -Try this recipe from Merry Maids: mix 3 drops Dawn in 1 gallon water and fill a spray bottle with the solution. Spritz and wipe as you would with any window cleaner.
PETS AND PESTS - Use it to bathe the dogs. It kills fleas on contact.
ICE PACK - Partially fill a strong zip-type sandwich bag with Dawn dishwashing liquid, close and freeze. The liquid soap stays cold much longer and it can be re-frozen many times. It will conform to the place you need an ice pack. I've heard about this but never tried it.
REPEL ANTS - Spray counter-tops, cupboards and any other area where you see ants with a solution of Dawn and water. Wipe dry. The slight residue of Dawn that remains will not be a problem at all for kids or pets, but ants hate it. Should you see a trail of ants, go ahead and hit them with the Dawn spray.
POISON IVY - Poison ivy spreads through the spread of the oil within the blisters. Washing the affected area with Dawn, especially on children who keep scratching the blister's open, helps dry up the fluid, and keep it from spreading.
SIDEWALK DE-ICER - For icy steps and sidewalks in freezing temperatures, mix 1 teaspoon of Dawn dishwashing liquid, 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol, and 1/2 gallon hot/warm water and pour over walkways. They won't refreeze. No more salt eating at the concrete in your sidewalks. This is worth a try!
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Calender
October 2018
October 8 - International Day of the Girl
Come Out Day
October 16 – Boss Day
World Food Day
October 18 – Spirit Day – Connect with yours!
October 24 – United Nations Day
October 28 – Chocolate Day – my favorite!
October 29 – International Cat Day
October 31 – Boo! Happy Halloween
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November 2018
November 1 – All Saints Day
November 2 – All Souls Day
November 4 – Daylight Savings Time Ends
November 13 – World Kindness Day
November 15 – World Philosophy Day
November 16 – World Tolerance Day
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